The Weekly Mix: Embracing Transitions, Navigating Wellness, and Finding Joy in Everyday Discoveries

Hello, wonderful readers! I haven’t forgotten about our cherished weekly check-in, and I’m delighted to bring you a special Saturday edition of The Weekly Mix today. Can you believe we’re already hurtling past the halfway point of August? It feels like just yesterday we were celebrating the start of summer, and now it’s officially beginning its graceful exit. As much as I adore the crisp air and cozy vibes of autumn, I can’t help but feel a pang of sadness as the longer, sun-drenched days bid us farewell.

Before diving into this week’s curated collection of inspirations and personal updates, I want to extend my deepest gratitude for the incredibly kind words and unwavering support you shared after last week’s candid discussion about gut health and digestive wellness. It’s certainly not the most glamorous or ‘fun’ topic to delve into – an understatement of the year, perhaps – but the outpouring of encouragement and empathy I’ve received through this community has been truly heartwarming. Your messages have reminded me how invaluable it is to share our vulnerabilities and experiences, knowing we’re not alone.

To give you a quick update: all of my diagnostic test results have come back negative, which, in the eyes of conventional medicine, means ‘officially’ nothing is wrong with me. However, my body, and specifically my gut, seems to be telling a different story entirely. The persistent discomfort and issues unfortunately don’t align with these clear results. This unexpected turn of events means that the next step on my wellness journey is an elimination diet. The irony of embarking on such a restrictive regimen just months after successfully completing Whole30 is certainly not lost on me. Life truly has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect them. C’est la vie, as they say.

I know many of you might be wondering how this personal health exploration will impact the blog and the delicious recipes I share here on A Beautiful Plate. The honest answer is… I currently have no definitive answer. This journey could unfold in many ways; it might turn out to be something remarkably simple to identify and manage, or it could involve a more complex, months-long process of trial and error to pinpoint the root cause of my symptoms. Trust me, receiving this news has been incredibly frustrating – especially for someone who cherishes food and cooking as deeply as I do. However, I want to assure you all that the core mission and end goal of this blog will always remain the same: to inspire you in the kitchen by sharing delicious, beautiful, and accessible recipes. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being a part of this space and for your continued understanding and patience. Your presence means the world to me. ~xo

P.S. In case you missed any of my earlier posts this week, I recently shared an incredibly easy and comforting simple carrot soup recipe yesterday – perfect for a light lunch or a cozy dinner as the seasons begin to shift. And earlier in the week, I put together a comprehensive guide featuring tons of fantastic summer squash recipe ideas, complete with helpful tips and tricks to make the most of this versatile seasonal produce before it disappears!

Curated Inspirations: Things I’m Loving This Week

This week, I’ve stumbled upon a variety of delightful discoveries, from profound insights to simple pleasures and mouth-watering recipes. Here’s a peek at what’s been catching my eye and sparking joy:

–> If you’re looking to cultivate a more purposeful and impactful existence, these excellent tips from Jen Carrington offer profound wisdom and actionable strategies. They delve into how our ego can sometimes unconsciously hinder our growth and prevent us from truly realizing our creative potential and leading a fulfilling, sustainable life. The article provides incredibly practical ideas for overcoming these internal barriers, fostering self-awareness, and ultimately, building a life that resonates deeply with your authentic self. It’s a must-read for anyone on a creative or personal development journey.

–> Oh my goodness, how incredibly delicious does this video look?! It’s a culinary journey that transports you straight to the heart of Spain, showcasing vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and the unmistakable passion of Spanish cuisine. From sizzling tapas to rich paellas and delicate desserts, it’s a visual feast that will ignite your wanderlust and your appetite. Watching it, I could almost taste the flavors and feel the warmth of the Mediterranean sun. It’s truly a little taste of Spain, and it immediately moved to the top of my ‘must-try-these-dishes’ list.

–> For a refreshing and healthy treat, you simply must check out these adorable and undeniably satisfying frozen banana ice cream bars. They’re the perfect guilt-free indulgence, especially as we cling to the last vestiges of summer. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, they offer a creamy, sweet, and surprisingly decadent experience without any artificial additives. They’re easy to make, customizable with your favorite toppings, and an absolute delight for both kids and adults. A truly genius way to enjoy a healthy dessert!

–> I 100% identify with the sentiments expressed in this captivating article about the profound calming and happiness-inducing effects of being near water. The concept of “blue mind” – the meditative and peaceful state we often enter when in, on, or near water – deeply resonates with me. I think it’s precisely why I love living in Chicago so much; having Lake Michigan right at our doorstep provides an incredible sense of tranquility and an ever-present connection to nature’s vastness. There’s something inherently restorative about the rhythmic sound of waves and the expansive views that water offers.

–> We finally got around to watching the critically acclaimed series The Handmaid’s Tale a few weeks ago, and I was utterly engrossed. The storytelling is powerful, the performances are phenomenal, and the dystopian world it creates is both chilling and thought-provoking. Now, after experiencing the intensity of the show, I am absolutely compelled to read Margaret Atwood’s original book. I’m eager to delve deeper into the nuances of the narrative, explore the characters’ internal struggles, and gain an even richer understanding of the themes presented. It’s definitely one of the more fascinating and impactful shows I’ve encountered in a long while!

–> For all my fellow food enthusiasts and home cooks, prepare to “nerd out” over this incredibly comprehensive guide to eggs. Serious Eats always delivers with their meticulous research and detailed explanations, and this guide is no exception. It covers everything from the science behind perfect poaching to the art of a fluffy omelet, different cooking methods, and tips for selecting the best eggs. It’s a treasure trove of information that will undoubtedly elevate your egg-cooking game, transforming what seems like a simple ingredient into a culinary masterpiece. Get ready to master every single egg preparation!

–> Right now, I’m craving absolutely nothing else but this vibrant South Padre shrimp ceviche. The mere thought of its fresh, zesty, and refreshing flavors is enough to make my mouth water. Ceviche is the quintessential summer dish, combining succulent shrimp with bright citrus, crisp vegetables, and a hint of spice. It’s light, invigorating, and absolutely perfect for these warm late-August days. Seriously, it’s happening this weekend – I can’t resist making a big batch to enjoy!

–> Breaking news! My adorable furry companion, Marley, finally had his first real swim last weekend, and it was quite the spectacle! For the longest time, he’s been content to wade in the shallows, but this time, something shifted. I think he got a little jealous watching all the other dogs confidently paddling out to the middle of the pond. In a burst of spontaneous courage, he followed them out, only to quickly realize mid-pond that he had absolutely no idea what he was doing! It was a hilarious and heartwarming moment, and I couldn’t be a prouder dog mama! Seeing him take that leap was pure joy.🐾

–> Any fellow freelancers out there who juggle multiple projects, deadlines, and the unique challenges of self-employment will find this hilarious piece from The New Yorker incredibly relatable. The concept of “freelance achievement stickers” is pure comedic genius, poking fun at the small, often unsung victories and everyday struggles that define the freelance lifestyle. From successfully sending an invoice to remembering to eat lunch, it captures the humorous reality of working independently. Prepare for some hearty laughs and a strong sense of camaraderie!

–> I’ve literally been anticipating this kitchen remodel before-and-after reveal for what feels like months, and it did not disappoint! Jessica from How Sweet Eats always has impeccable style, and her new kitchen is an absolute dream. The transformation is stunning, but if I had to pick just one standout detail, it would be the innovative and incredibly chic “chai cabinets.” They add such warmth, sophistication, and a unique touch to the space. It’s a true testament to thoughtful design and how a kitchen can be both functional and breathtakingly beautiful.

–> As we transition from summer to fall, I’m absolutely loving this super flowy flower-print dress! It’s the perfect transitional piece, offering both comfort and effortless style. The beautiful floral pattern adds a touch of bohemian charm, while the loose, airy fit makes it incredibly versatile – perfect for warm days or layered with a jacket as the temperatures cool. It’s the kind of dress that makes you feel put-together and relaxed, whether you’re heading to brunch or a casual evening out. A delightful addition to any wardrobe!

–> This last one truly blew my mind: savory funnel cakes might just be the most brilliant and innovative culinary idea I’ve encountered in months. Why isn’t this a mainstream thing yet?! We typically associate funnel cakes with sweet, sugary treats, but the concept of transforming them into a savory delight opens up a world of possibilities. Imagine them topped with fresh herbs, artisanal cheeses, perhaps even a dollop of flavorful chutney or a savory jam. It’s a stroke of genius that challenges conventional thinking and promises a truly unique and delicious experience. I’m already dreaming up flavor combinations!

Hope you have a fabulous weekend filled with joy, good food, and perhaps a new discovery or two!