How is it already Monday? This weekend flew by. We had a great time hanging out with friends, attempting to stay dry between monsoon-like rainstorms, and having a mini college reunion at the wedding, but I’m still utterly exhausted. I don’t know if it’s old age or pregnancy (let’s just say both?), but even after a good night’s sleep Sunday night, I was dragging the ground today. Here’s hoping the rest of the week is easier!

Since I’ve neglected my Weekly Links posts the last 2 weeks, I thought I’d try and redeem myself by posting just a day late instead of skipping another entirely. Happy reading.

.Recipes.

Coconut Frappuccino with Boozy Whipped Cream via Imma Eat That

I want this right now. And, since the only “booze” in this concoction is a tiny teaspoon of amaretto in the whipped cream, I might have to try it.

BBQ Chicken Nachos with Buttermilk Onion Rings via How Sweet It Is

Two of my absolute favorite things in one summery dish. An odd combination, but it has to be amazing! (Maybe it’s because we’re both pregnant?…)

Brown Butter Vanilla Bean Rice Krispie Treats via Mountain Mama Cooks

Oh my gosh, yes. I think it’s time Mark and I whip up some of these with the giant box of Rice Krispies and bag of marshmallows hanging out in our pantry.

Hot Fudge Ripple Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream via Creme de la Crumb

Swoon. I’m dying over the fudge ripple.

Summer Squash Pizza via Peas and Crayons

This looks so summery (and is a nice healthy balance to the desserts I’ve already posted).

.Food & Nutrition.

To Save These Pigs, Ky. Farmer Says We Have To Eat Them via NPR

Biodiversity is important. I commend this farmer and others like him, especially since small-scale farmers tend to treat their livestock vastly better than factory farmers.

Sizing Down Food Waste: What’s The Worst Thing To Toss? via NPR

Although I despise wasting food (and do it far too often), I’ve never thought of it from a calorie perspective. Something to think about next time I’m cleaning out the fridge!

.Health & Wellness.

We Are Our Bacteria via The New York Times

I’ve always found our gut and microbiome fascinating. It amazes me how many bacteria live inside of us, and I think it’s important for us to consider that diversity when choosing to take antibiotics, giving birth naturally, and eating fermented foods, for example.

.Body Image & Mental Health.

When Self-Confidence Isn’t 24/7 via The Lunchbox Diaries

This was posted a couple of weeks ago, but I thought it was worth sharing. No matter how happy we are in our own skin, we’re human. I have moments just like this, but overall, I’m confident with my appearance and grateful for my body and what it can do.

The Scale via Snack Therapy

I adore Carly’s humor, but even more, I adore the truth and importance to what she shares. The scale is powerful, but only if we make it that way. Personally, I’d rather focus on the experiences I’ve gained in the last few years than on the pounds that I’ve seen come and/or go.

.Fitness.

8 Incredible Ways Exercising Outside Will Improve Your Health via The Active Times

“Regular contact with nature isn’t an elective. As far as I’m concerned, it’s a requirement,” says Sisson. I couldn’t agree more, although it’s much more difficult to accomplish that contact with 90+ degree temperatures and nearly 100% humidity. Nevertheless, I’ll always prefer exercising outdoors to indoors (unless it’s barre or yoga).

One Size Doesn’t Fit All: How to Find the Best Health and Fitness Routine For You via Greatist

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve started a new fitness plan because I read somebody else’s raves about it but ended up hating it myself. Well, if you’re not enjoying a routine that fits your body, your lifestyle, and your tastes, then you’re doomed to fail. It’s going to take work, but it should be somewhat enjoyable and manageable, too.