It's September and we've had one night cool enough to sleep with the windows open. Within 12 hours of this, I already switched out my Scentsy air freshener to "Mulled Cider" and was looking up fall baking recipes and planning a week full of soups, crock pots, and pasta. I think it's supposed to be in the 80's again on Tuesday. I may have to re-visit the meal plan.

But seriously:
Baked Raspberry Cheesecake Oatmeal?
Cauliflower Chowder?
Gnocchi a la Sorentina?
Maple Apple Granola?
I'll be back for you all.

I have about 7 weeks left until my due date, and am still trying to load up on protein. This shake is easy, packs some fall flavor, and is infinitely more guilt-free than yesterday's pumpkin spice latte. Sorry about that, baby.



Coconut Cinnamon Ginger Protein Shake

1 cup coconut milk
2 T shredded coconut, I used unsweetened
1 T coconut oil
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp almond flavoring
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp ginger
2 scoops protein powder (I used Body by Vi ViShape Sweet Cream)
Ice to thicken (8-10 cubes, or whatever you like)

Blend in blender until smooth. Makes 1 serving.

I found a new favorite snack! These apple nachos are quick to make and more fun than just eating an apple.

Slice your apple thinly and cover it with whatever you think sounds good on an apple. I melted some peanut butter with coconut oil and sprinkled on some chopped chocolate, pecans, and coconut.

I made a later batch with strawberry rhubarb jam, chopped strawberries, marshmallows, and crushed pretzels.

All the options remind me of a caramel apple store in Long Beach ... I think I can eat these all summer!