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What I'm Loving Lately

Happy mid-week to you, readers! We are so close to the weekend and with the short week its been flying by. Our Labor Day weekend was a great one with some plans here and there and still lots of time for some relaxation. John and I typically have a packed calendar, so we love to savor any one-on-one time we can get in on the weekends—catching up on Netflix, cooking a new dish or cocktail and running errands for the week. 


My company gave us off on Friday (what a treat!) so I decided to head to the beach and enjoy some me time with new magazine and some iced coffee. This little guy wasn't too amused that I didn't have any tasty snacks to share. It was a bit breezy at first, but as soon as noon hit the sun was shining and the weather turned out to be perfect.


Since we've been back from Italy and Greece over a month now, John has been big on throwing together these Greek-inspired cucumber salads. They call for olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, feta and red onion. He typically drizzles them with a little bit of olive oil, but a few weeks ago at the West Sayville Seafood Festival I stumbled upon a stand selling homemade Greek balsamic and oils. We ended up buying the Greek Balsamico and Greek Lemoni. The other is a Greek homemade salad dressing that is delicious. I am excited to marinade some chicken breast and throw on the grill for a lightened up dinner. These are great for dipping breads, meats and cheese or topping off salads or meats.


For a while now I really have been into morning smoothies for breakfast and I typically would throw in a scoop of all natural peanut butter. Its a bit on the high-fat side, but a healthy fat. I finally found the perfect replacement and its just as tasty and satisfying. PB2 is a powdered peanut butter with a lot less fat and calories than regular peanut butter. I toss two tablespoons (45 calories) into my morning shake and it does the job. Its hard to come across this product in regular grocery stores, so if you do make sure to pick it up. I found mine at Target.


Lets not forget its pumpkin everything season! John and I scooped up some local pumpkin beer from our nearby beer distributor this weekend and enjoyed with a cinnamon-sugar rim. I have to say, Blue Point's pumpkin ale is really tasty and not overly sweet. It had hints of fall's favorite flavors like cinnamon, spice and is made from actual pumpkin puree. They certainly hit the spot.


Another favorite that is my great big hold on summer are Lindy's homemade Italian ices. We have a couple of flavors in our freezer, but my must-have is their watermelon. Its icy and creamy and all kinds of delicious. And, at only 100 calories you don't feel so guilty having one as a late night sweet treat.


While strolling around one of our favorite towns this weekend we came across A Cottage in the City. A home decor store in Sayville, NY filled with tons of vintage trinkets, furniture and home goods. I purchased this cute Julia Child inspired plate. Now we just have to figure out where to hang it. If you are looking for a unique housewarming gift or something for your own space, I definitely recommend stopping in. The owner was extremely friendly and knew a ton about house wares and furniture.


After a bit of walking and shopping we stopped into Long Island Super Bowls. I have never tried an acai bowl before, but it sure was damn delicious. Our bowl was made with frozen acai, almond milk, honey, coconut, berries, bananas and granola. These bowls are jam packed with healthy eats and are so filling. The acai wasn't overly sweet but was the perfect consistency and a bit icy, and there were a ton of options for people with allergies. Toppings ranged from fruit to more splurge filled add-ons like nutella and peanut butter. John and I shared the one above and we were extremely satisfied.

Well I hope everyone is having a great week so far. Last night I made another big pot of slow cooker chili and that will be dinner tonight. I have a pretty packed weekend with one of my good friend's bridal shower and bachelorette party and can't wait! Catch you all later. xo

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