Five Favorites

This is the tenth edition of Five Favorites, which means that over the course of the past three months, I have shared with you 50 of my most favorite things. I hope you've enjoyed reading these posts as much as I've enjoyed writing them!

1. Old Navy Active

I know what you're thinking: Emmy, you've already professed your love toward Old Navy workout clothes 1,000 times over. And you'd be correct. However, I wanted to tell you about my new favorite find today.

Normally, I purchase these workout tops:

The Knotted Racer-Back Tank

This particular cut is my absolute favorite because it isn't skin-tight (hello, muffin top with spandex capris), and it's a bit longer than most workout tops.

But, the hotter it gets, the more I realize that because the tank is 65% polyester and 35% cotton, it tends to soak up the sweat and get really baggy, really fast.

So, I decided to try one of the new tops:

The Cut-Out Mesh Tank

This particular tank is also a bit longer than most, but it's more fitted and less flow-y. It's 91% polyester and 9% spandex, so it doesn't get bogged down and bagged out by sweat. Also, the whole tank has a cut-out pattern (almost lacy), so there's great ventilation. And as an added bonus, it's super cute: wearing this top, I rode my bike down to a pub to watch the World Cup match last weekend, and I saw one of my sister's friends who commented on how much she loved my top and how she couldn't believe it was a workout tank, as it was something she'd wear to go out.

So yes, I will be wearing this (in one of the three colors that I have already purchased) all summer. I'm going to have some sweet tan lines. :)

2. Maybelline Define-A-Lash Waterproof Lengthening Mascara

Mascara is the one cosmetic item that I always wear: whether I am going out on a date or running a race, I throw on a coat or two of mascara before I head out the door.

Also, I hate spending money on make-up. I want the best product for the least amount of money, and I want items that are going to last a while.

Enter: Maybelline mascara.

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I love this mascara because it is good-to-go after one application, it goes on smoothly and doesn't clump up, and it seriously does define my lashes. And because I always buy the waterproof kind, it doesn't smudge, even when I tear up, wipe my eyes, etc.

I'm sure it makes me look exactly like this:

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Oh, and it's also less than $8 at Walgreen's. Done and done.

3. My Road Bike

I talked about this road bike nearly a year ago, but I have to talk about it again this year since I have been on it at least three or four times a week this summer.

I love my bike and think that I would be lost without it. It could probably use another tune-up, but I absolutely love everything about this bike -- even the clip-in shoes that have caused a couple of embarrassing moments this year.

Also, I have been doing a lot of work on my bike this summer -- all by myself. I figured out how to attach a pump, another cage, how to adjust my seat, etc. I wholly understand that these are "basic" things, but since I am pretty much the furthest from a fix-it kinda gal, I feel quite accomplished.

I'm pumped (and terrified) to take 'er out on a 50-mile ride later today.

4. Report Sandals (Ryella)

I wear a lot of flip-flops during the summer. But, since I've been a little fancier this summer than ever before (read: going on dates and trying to dress to impress), I decided I should buy some big-girl shoes to match the dresses that I've been living in.

I must have walked the aisles at DSW a dozen times before settling on these bad boys. I really liked them from the get go, but I was also nervous that they would get too hot and sweaty on our super humid days, that I wouldn't like the enclosed heel, etc.

But I am so glad that I settled on this pair. They're so cute, they go with everything, and they totally dress up a plain ol' dress very nicely. Since they only cost $35 and considering I've worn them every day for the past two weeks, I'd say I've already gotten my money's worth.

5. Orange is the New Black

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You guys: I binge-watched this show. And when I say "binge-watched," I mean binge-watched. I'm pretty sure I made it through all 13 episodes in a matter of three days.

And now I'm in withdrawal.

I love so much about this show (while also acknowledging its faults). I love that the cast is 95% female and that there are strong, well-written characters for the actresses. I love that it shows varying relationships between women. I love that it shows the stories and lives behind incarcerated individuals. I love that episodes can make me laugh and cry, can shock me and touch me.

Seriously, I need Season Three a lot sooner than June 2015.


What are some things that you've been loving lately? Are you an OITNB fan? What TV shows hook you for hours on end?


Find previous "Five Favorites" here:

• Five Favorites 9
• Five Favorites 8
• Five Favorites 7
• Five Favorites 6
• Five Favorites 5
• Five Favorites 4
• Five Favorites 3
• Five Favorites 2
• Five Favorites 1

Five Favorites -- Running Edition

As we enter race season (in which I plan to run five half marathons) and as I prepare to run my first race this weekend, I thought I'd do a Five Favorites -- Running Essentials Edition.

This is quite a lengthy Five Favorites post, however, as I crammed about 18,000 things into five categories: bear with me.

1. Shoes

First, the most important thing is a good shoe. And, a good shoe for one person is definitely not necessarily a good shoe for all people. Because I know what I like and what works for me, when I need a new pair of shoes, I simply head to Scheel's or just order online if I can find it somewhere else cheaper.

If you are new to running and/or don't yet know what works for you, I highly recommend hitting up a specialty running store (here in Des Moines that would be Fitness Sports or the Running Room). The salespeople at these stores will analyze how you run, look at other shoes you own (to check the wear and tear), and suggest a running shoe that will be best for you.

Currently, I'm running in Brooks PureCadence 2s, although I occasionally switch it up with my Asics GT 2000s, the shoe that I have used for the past several years (and have worn through several times over).

2. Clothing

After a good running shoe, the second most important thing is quality running clothes. I used to purchase expensive, quality brands (specifically Under Armor and Nike), but now ever since I have discovered Old Navy Activewear, that is really all that I buy. Seriously, their compression capris/tights are the absolute best: they don't fall down your booty as you trudge up hills, they're cute and flatter, and most importantly, they're thick enough to not show your goodies as you bend over to stretch.

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Seriously, I cannot get enough of these workout clothes, and they're pretty much the only thing occupying space in my closet as we speak.

The only piece of clothing that I don't buy from Old Navy is socks. Because I am so blister-prone, I get special blister socks, and the ones that I like best are from Nike:

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They're the only socks I trust for long runs.

Yet another essential clothing item is something for your head, something to wick away the sweat and, if you're like me, to keep the wispies out of your eyes. As I mentioned in one of my Five Favorites posts, I personally prefer Bondi Bands for this very purpose.

Bondi Bands stay put no matter how strenuous my workout is, they wick away the sweat no matter how humid the workout is, and as an added bonus, they keep my ears warm if needed.

Finally, a SPIbelt is an absolute must for long runs.

I look exactly like her as soon as I put my SPIbelt on.
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Basically, a SPIbelt is a tiny little fanny pack that is quite expandable, perfect for holding my iPhone, a couple of GUs, some emergency Immodium, and whatever else I deem necessary the day of a long run.

3. Technology

First, while not absolutely necessary, I really enjoy running with GPS. I used to prefer my Garmin:

Pictured with my SPIbelt and yet another running essential, my motivational bracelet.

However, the watch is pretty bulky and makes my arm a bit sweaty, and I find that I'm constantly looking at it when it's so readily available. So, I decided to put it away for a while.

In its place, I've been using my favorite running app, iSmoothRun, instead. (I previously mentioned this particular app in a Five Favorites post a few weeks ago.)

I like that the app is customizable: I can have Carmen (the Garmin voice) talk to me according to time or distance (I have her set to notify me at each mile), I can have her tell me when to run vs. walk according to the Galloway method, I can have her give me a warm-up and/or a cool down, etc. And, it's more accurate than older versions of other running apps.

In addition to a good form of GPS, a quality playlist is yet another technological item on my running essentials list. I've mentioned it a few times, but inspirational songs as well as songs that remind me of friends and family are very important motivational tools for me.

4. Drugstore Items

There are three things that I always make sure I have on hand prior to any long run and, especially, big races: Vaseline (as previously discussed in a Three Thanks post), Immodium, and Ibuprofen.

Vaseline is a super-cheap version of Body Glide and is imperative in preventing chafing. I personally slather that crap all over my feet (arches and heels), my boobs (since I chafe so badly there that it looks like I have implant scars), and my inner arms (since they rub my tank-top seams, apparently).

I always take two Immodium prior to racing, regardless of how my tummy feels. And, I always carry a couple more in my SPIbelt, as I want to do everything I can to prevent Bridesmaids-ing in the middle of a run.

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Finally, I take two Ibuprofen prior to running, just to ward off the stabbing pain that I just know my kneecaps are going to be inflicting on my calves in the middle of the run. (I also know that this is generally a discouraged practice, but whatever: it works for me.)

5. Fuel

One of the best parts of running long distances is the fact that it's not only socially acceptable but also strongly encouraged that you eat during your workout. Apparently the body needs some quick and dirty energy or something.

Prior to starting this Whole30 / Paleo lifestyle, my mid-race fuel was GU:

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Essentially, it's a packet of carbohydrates, amino acids, electrolytes, and caffeine, all of which form the consistency of hair gel. You're supposed to take a shot of GU 15 minutes before the workout and then every 45 minutes during the workout.

My pre-Paleo fuel also included Twizzlers, gummy bears, and sports beans (Jelly Bellies) -- anything to fill my body with sugar.

Now that I'm trying to eat a wholly clean, unprocessed diet, however, I have had to rethink my fuel. Target makes a great brand of clean fruits snacks (that I discussed on a previous Five Favorites post), and I've also found some pouches of baby food that should work well.

Expect an update on that next week.


What are your "must-haves" for long runs and races?


Find previous "Five Favorites" here:

• Five Favorites 8
• Five Favorites 7
• Five Favorites 6
• Five Favorites 5
• Five Favorites 4
• Five Favorites 3
• Five Favorites 2
• Five Favorites 1

Five Favorites

It's everyone's favorite post of the week!

(Do y'all like the Five Favorites series? I love reading what others are loving lately, and they're kind of fun posts to write.)

1. e.l.f. Make-Up

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A few Christmases ago, Santa my mom gave me an eye shadow palette that I absolutely adored.

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I used this make-up every single day because it was pretty, it lasted all day, and I could create a bazillion different looks. I loved it.

When I started running out of my favorite colors, I asked my mom where she bought it because I could not for the life of me find any branding on the product. She told me that she bought it at Target for FIVE dollars.

Um, say what?!

I have since bought several more e.l.f. products, none of which were more than $10 a pop.

2. Blogsy

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Blogging on-the-go has always been difficult, especially when I just take my iPad -- and not my computer -- with me. Because I knew I was heading to Atlanta, I started looking for ways I could blog via my iPad and came across Blogsy, which is heralded as the best blogging app for numerous blog platforms.

While I have yet to publish more than a "test" post using the app, I know it is going to be very beneficial, and I will likely use it often.

(And if I've posted any evening posts this week, you can bet it's been via Blogsy.)

3. Orphan Black

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My friends are hooked on Orphan Black, so I have started watching it so that I can participate in their conversations. And, while I'm only a few episodes in thus far, I am loving it.

Essentially, it's a science-fiction thriller. I find it kind of hard to describe, but basically there are several clones of the same individual who are leading their own lives with no knowledge that they are clones. Eventually, they start discovering one another -- along with a group that is trying to assassinate them.

It's very, very intriguing.

Normally I am not "all about" sci-fi stuff, but this is a great show.

4. Reef Flip-Flops

You're welcome for the "extra-large" shot of my feet.

Seriously, though, these flip-flops are so awesome.

I bought my first pair of Reefs when my mom and I decided to get spur-of-the-moment pedicures, and I didn't have any flip-flops. Luckily we were right next to the shoe section of Von Maur, so I picked up a gray pair. Not even two weeks later, I stopped back to get them in black and in gold.

They are amazing.

They are so amazing, in fact, that my black ones are completely worn to the ground. There is no more "squishiness," and it almost hurts to walk on them. I guess three to four years for a pair of flippy-floppies isn't that bad.

5. Cashew-Cranberry-Almond Trail Mix

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I first tried this trail mix at my parents' house during my Whole30 (I picked out the cranberries, though, because I was unsure of whether or not they were compliant).

Since that initial tasting, I have purchased not one but two of these huge canisters for my house. It's a great snack to throw in a Ziploc and take to a tennis meet, a meeting, or, like now for instance, on a trip.

(Now that I'm officially done with my Whole30, I do eat the cranberries. I figure that tiny a serving is not going to make or break me.)


What are some thing that you've been loving lately?


Find previous "Five Favorites" here:

• Five Favorites 7
• Five Favorites 6
• Five Favorites 5
• Five Favorites 4
• Five Favorites 3
• Five Favorites 2
• Five Favorites 1

Five Favorites

Happy Saturday, friends!

I really, really missed telling you about my five favorite things last week while I was sick with allergies, a migraine, and then gone in St. Louis, so compiling my five favorites this week was extra fun.

I hope you enjoy!

1. Goody Ouchless Ribbon Elastics

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I first saw these hair ties when I saw Aly and her mom in Omaha. I noticed a really cool ribbon-y bracelet on Aly, and I thought it was something from J Crew or Banana Republic and didn't think much of it. 

Then I saw that same ribbon-y bracelet holding up her hair. Duh, Emmy, it was a hair tie.

I immediately knew I had to get my hands on some of those bad boys, as I rarely put my hair up anymore simply because I hate wearing elastics around my wrist.

These are so pretty, and I love that they don't crinkle or rip out your hair when you take down the pony. I wouldn't wear only one of these during a run or a hardcore workout because they're not that strong, but I'd definitely consider wearing one over a normal hair tie simply for the fashion aspect.

I love them.

2. Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell

One of my students read this book and absolutely loved it, so I impulse-purchased it when I was at Barnes & Noble with my mom and sister a couple of weeks ago.

I impulsively threw it in my purse to take to St. Louis with me "just in case," and I nearly finished it by the time we got to St. Louis.

I devoured it.

It was so good, friends. I know that YA fiction is not "for everyone" (although I have a hard time understanding why not), but I absolutely loved this book. I thought it was just so real -- the first relationship between an awkward guy and even more awkward girl. I loved that the characters were imperfect and flawed, and I appreciated that the ending was not very "clean" and left a lot of questions in readers' minds.

As soon as I finished the book, I wanted to talk to my student about it. And, I want to give it to all of my other students to read: so good.

3. Bees Beechwood Spatula

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We really like bees in my family: our last name starts with a B, so it's just natural that we like bees. I don't know. It makes sense to us. Don't judge.

For instance, check out my mom's blog signature:

Yep: a bee.

And this is a gift that I bought for my sister a couple of years ago:

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Yep: another bee.

We like bees, okay?

But back to the spatula. I was at World Market a couple of months ago and saw the cutest collection of bee stuff: the spatula, a spoon, measuring cups, a cookie jar, etc. I knew that I had to have a bee something, and if I was going to have a bee something, so was my mom, my sister, and my sister-in-law.

I seriously love this spatula. I use it nearly every single day -- at least once -- and it has yet to fade a bit. Not only does it look cool, but it also feels good. I'm picky about kitchen utensils, and this one is a definite winner.

4. Gym Bag

I think I've mentioned before that I was the cheerleading coach for three years at the school where I teach. And as a reminder, I coached for three more years than I cheered myself.

One of the perks of coaching was a bunch of swag. I have more navy and white cheer shirts than I know what to do with. I also have a warm up jacket with a huge sparkly silver R on the back and plenty of jackets that have "Coach Emily" embroidered on the chest. Don't be jealous: I'm sure I can spare one for you.

But in all seriousness, I absolutely love the cheer bag that I received for all of my hard work bought. I haven't coached cheer for the last five years, but I've used this bag countless times. It's perfect for heading to Omaha for the weekend or bringing workout clothes to work for an after-school change. I think this is one of my better investments.

5. Simply Balanced Fruit Twists

Simply Balanced is Target's wellness brand and offers a great line of all-natural and preservative-free foods. The ones I've tried thus far (the fruit twists pictured above) and the twisted fruit ropes are really, really tasty. And, the fruit twists are awesome -- and perfectly portable -- for fuel for long runs.

I bought a thing of Simply Balanced almond butter as well but haven't opened it yet. I'll keep you posted.

What are some things you're loving lately?

Find previous "Five Favorites" here:

• Five Favorites 6
• Five Favorites 5
• Five Favorites 4
• Five Favorites 3
• Five Favorites 2
• Five Favorites 1

Five Favorites

Happy Saturday, friends! Aren't weekends just the best? I hope y'all are relaxing, spending time with friends and family, and having a blast -- after, of course, checking out five of my favorite things. :)

1. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes

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I have always been notoriously bad about taking off my make-up at night, washing my face, etc. While I have super allergic skin and eczema in random places, the skin on my face has always been great: I would occasionally be bothered by a pimple as a teenager, but other than that, I've had zero issues. So, I pretty much figured I didn't have to do anything to my face to keep it that way.

Lately, though, I've been a bit more diligent about removing my make-up. Granted, I usually do so in the morning and only because I have raccoon eyes otherwise -- and because I want to start with a fresh canvas face for the day.

Enter: Neutrogena wipes. These things are awesome. It takes all of 15 seconds to remove my leftover make-up, including my heavy-duty waterproof mascara. And what's even better is that I don't have to scrub: it's seriously just a quick, gentle wipe to remove every bit of make-up.

2. Parenthood

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I rarely watch TV shows when they're on, as my schedule is pretty random and, let's be real, I often forget when shows actually air. Oh, and I really like watching marathons of shows: who wants to wait an entire week to find out what happens next?

Parenthood, however, is the exception. While I may not always catch it on Thursday at 9 p.m., I almost always watch it within the week that it airs. (Thank you, Hulu Plus!)

I strongly believe that this is the best show on television today. The characters are so realistic, and their acting is flawless: it feels like we are watching an actual, real-life family interact with each other. It doesn't seem scripted at all. I love it.

The Boy used to roll his eyes every time I talked about the show, saying that there was "always some sort of drama" happening. But, I think it's super realistic: everyone always has "something" going on in real life, so that's what should happen on a show as well.

I appreciate that it takes on tough issues: autism, the n-word, abortion, addiction, PTSD, cancer, etc. And it does so in sensitive yet very realistic ways.

Oh, and I feel like the characters are real people -- and that they're my best friends. That's not weird at all, is it?

I could go on and on and on and on about everything that I love about this show. If you haven't had a chance to see it, please check it out. Watch all prior seasons on Netflix and then catch up on this season on Hulu Plus. You won't be sorry.

3. Bondi Bands

I'm sure you've noticed in the thousands of running photos I've posted over the course of the last couple of years that I am always wearing a headband, especially during races. In fact, a new headband is kind of my "gift to myself" prior to each major race that I run.

The headbands that I swear by are Bondi Bands: first and most importantly, they wick the sweat away like you wouldn't believe. I rarely have sweat run down my face because it's generally all contained (somehow) in that itty-bitty piece of fabric around my ears. Second, they keep the hair out of my face, which is obviously super important during a run. Third, they are super cute and have some really funny sayings (my personal favorite is "One Hot Mess"). Fourth, they are very affordable and, when purchased at expos, generally discounted depending on the number that you buy. Finally, when it's cold outside, they serve as very good ear warmers, but when it's hot outside, you barely notice them on your head.

Seriously, y'all: if you run, you need to have some Bondi Bands in your wardrobe.

4.  GT's Multi-Green Kombucha

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This stuff is the shit. If it weren't $3.99 a bottle, I would drink one of these bad boys every day. Kombucha definitely has an interesting flavor, one that might take some awhile to acquire, but I really, really like the Multi-Green flavor.

Kombucha is a fermented tea, and its antioxidants, enzymes, probiotics, and vitamins have ample health benefits: it boosts the immune system, it detoxifies, it gives an energy boost, it increases metabolism, and it offers pain relief.

And, it tastes good. It's a nice change from "boring ol' water."

5. Larabars

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Snacking is difficult on the Whole30 -- and it is also not advised since meals are supposed to be satiating. However, there are times when you just need a little somethin' somethin'. (Generally for me those times occur after or before a workout, especially when I know I'm not going to be able to cook an actual meal for a while.)

Enter: Larabars. First, the ingredient list is super short and consists only of natural ingredients, things that are pronounceable; for instance, the ingredient list for Cherry Pie includes dates, almonds, and unsweetened cherries, all Whole30-compliant ingredients.

So far I've tried and have really enjoyed Cherry Pie, Apple Pie, Carrot Cake, Cashew Cookie, Coconut Cream Pie, and Key Lime Pie.

What are some products that you can't live without lately?

Find previous "Five Favorites" here:

• Five Favorites 5
• Five Favorites 4
• Five Favorites 3
• Five Favorites 2
• Five Favorites 1

Five Favorites -- Whole30 Recipe Edition

Welcome back to Five Favorites -- the highlight of your weekend. :)

My sister-in-law gave me a great idea: since my Whole30 is technically over, I should give a quick rundown of my five favorite Whole30 recipes. This was a lot more difficult than I originally anticipated, however, as I ate so much good food during the challenge.

But, I narrowed it down for y'all. Here they are!

1. Slow-Cooker Korean Short Ribs

First discussed on March 3, 2014

This recipe from Nom Nom Paleo is amazeballs. First, it could not be any easier. The first time I made it, I whipped everything together before school, which left me a bit stressed because it did take a little time. The second time I made it, I blended everything together and kept it in the fridge until the next morning -- when I broiled the meat and then dumped everything in the crock pot.

That, my friends, is the way to do it.

I love this recipe served with broccoli and green beans. Nom nom, indeed!

2. Moroccan Meatballs

First discussed on March 11, 2014

This recipe from The Clothes Make the Girl is also super, super good, and while it takes a second to chop everything up and a while to let it simmer, it's also super, super easy. And, since it's taking "a while" (i.e. 60 minutes) on the stove, it gets super, super flavorful.

Serve this over cauliflower rice with a side of veggies (such as my favorite, spicy green beans), and you're good to go!

3. Chili-Garlic Shrimp

First discussed on February 27,  2014

While I was inspired by a bazillion different Pinterest postings, this recipe was all mine, friends. And, since it was "all mine," it's pretty haphazardly thrown together with very, very, very approximated ingredients:

• 1 lb peeled, deveined shrimp
• 1-2 T olive oil
• 1/2 T crushed red pepper (I really have no idea -- that just sounds good)
• 4 (?) garlic cloves

Saute the garlic for a couple of minutes, add the crushed red pepper, and throw in the shrimp. Cook until the shrimp is done.

This is definitely my go-to quick-and-easy meal, as it takes all of five minutes to throw together. I had it more times than I care to count during my Whole30.

4. The Best Breakfast Ever

Step-by-step recipe posted on March 8, 2014

As you know from reading 18,000 blog posts about it, this (or a variation of it) is pretty much what I ate most every morning. The pictured version contains sweet potato, mushroom, green pepper, jalapenos, avocado, salsa, and an egg. Sometimes, it doesn't contain some of those ingredients, sometimes it contains chicken sausage or bacon, etc.

There are a few consistencies: there's always protein, there's always veggies, there's always healthy fat, and it's always ridiculously delicious.

5. Sweet and Savory Blueberry Breakfast

First discussed on March 3, 2014

While Stupid Easy Paleo somehow manages to make this recipe in tortilla form, I have perfected it in scrambled form. I know that the thought of eggs and blueberries mixed together sounds absolutely repulsive, but you guys: it is soooooooo good.

I whisk four eggs, a handful of blueberries, a teaspoon-ish of coconut aminos, a dash-and-a-half of cinnamon, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Then I dump it all in a skillet greased with coconut oil.

It's savory and sweet and perfect for a quick, easy meal.


What are your favorite Whole30, Paleo, or generally healthy recipes? Hook me up with some inspiration!

Find previous "Five Favorites" here:

• Five Favorites 4
• Five Favorites 3
• Five Favorites 2
• Five Favorites 1