A. Macy Hall benfiting Susan G Komen Atlanta

I am so excited to have partnered with Susan G Komen Atlanta today in the sale of three of my 'A. Macy Hall' tassel jewelry designs!

Throughout the rest of October, I will donate 15% of the proceeds of my three designs to Susan G Komen for the Cure Atlanta.  

All of the designs in this collection were inspired by my mom, a 6 year breast cancer survivor! From the moment Mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, she pushed the importance of local fundraising and early detection research.  It was because of these two things we believe that my Mom was able to fight and beat her breast cancer! Local funding allowed her doctor's office access to brand new early detection technology that she was fortunate enough to 'test out as a healthy patient'...much to her surprise and the surprise of her doctors, the test results came back positive for breast cancer. I can remember the exact place I stood on my college campus during sorority bid day when my parents called to tell me the news. You never forget a moment like that. Luckily the scary news was followed by words of hope and plans of positive action. 

Early detection greatly aided in providing multiple treatment options and increased survival success rates for my Mom and the thousands of men and women in similar positions. After a series of surgeries and medication my Mom was breast cancer free and can now stand proud as a 6 year breast cancer survivor! 

Throughout the years Mom and I have participated in different programs to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research. We both truly believe that there is an answer to be found. We both also believe ever so strongly in the power of local fundraising organizations like Susan G Komen Atlanta that make gaining access to early detection processes easier and more abundant. 

This year to honor my Mom, a six-year breast cancer survivor, and to aid in the fight for a cure- I have channeled my creative energy into the creation of three tassel bracelets and necklaces that will {hopefully!} allow for a donation to Susan G Komen Atlanta.  

Please visit my 'A. Macy Hall' Etsy Shop and click the 'Komen for a Cure' category to see the designs: https://www.etsy.com/shop/AMacyHall

Congratulations, Mom! I love you! 

introducing: A. Macy Hall | tassel necklaces

my new tassel necklace etsy shop!

here's the story:

A couple of Sunday's ago I was going stir crazy hanging out at home. I had had enough of hearing screaming announcer dudes yelling about blocked backs and yard lines. I also had lingering memories of a strange dream that I had where I was making tons of pretty necklaces {whoa...I sound like a crazy person}. I had nothing but time and a craft store positioned way too close to my house. 

Fairly unlike me, I walked into the store with no plan of what I was going to make or purchase. Not a clue. But beads were on sale, I found some chain I liked and strings and links and other things that seemed appropriate. 

A little while later I found myself with these 3 cute creations and a completely satisfied creative side. Success. 

The next day a business owner friend of mine {Amy of the super cute shop, Swell Caroline} saw me wearing my necklace and asked to put them in her booth at Market. 

'Sounds fine to me!'

Much to my surprise- I made an order! I've also been loving making tassel necklaces for my sweet friends, which just makes me so happy! 

{the University of Georgia gameday necklace is pretty popular right now} 

I am loving this little hobby- it's such a wonderful way for me to relax and tap into my creative side {a side that is dyinggggg to get out more!}

I've now opened a little Etsy shop to sell my necklaces. 

I'd love for you to see all the styles in my shop at Etsy.com/shop/AMacyHall

love :)

the simple joy of a new smoothie recipe

Chocolate Pineapple Protein Smoothie

Because pineapple reminds me of the beach and chocolate coconut water is from the gods. 

Ingredients:

• 1/2 Cup+ Frozen Pineapple Chunks {don't be like me and freeze it in the ring with the core..sigh}
• 6-8 Ounces Chocolate Coconut Water {hello lover!}
• 1 Scoop Protein Powder {I am anti-soy + obsessed with plant-based Amazing Meal}

Blend & Find Bliss

guilt-free, man-friendly snack recipe: Buffalo Brussel Sprout Bites

Buffalo Brussel Sprout Bites

Buffalo chicken wings, blue cheese for dipping and a draught beer are probably the more enjoyable way to enjoy a football game... For a lighter snack that's still 'sporty', shake up the expected with this brussel sprout recipe that drastically cuts the calories and passed the husband taste test!

This Buffalo Brussel Sprout Bites recipe was created by the ladies of Tone It Up to encourage guilt-free, healthy eating during Labor Day weekend. Guess what...it worked on The Hall's! Fairly quick to whip up and surprisingly super tasty- we loved this snack and will definitely make it again! Here is their recipe:

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

3 cups of Organic Vegetable broth

2 -3 cups Brussels Sprouts

2 Tbs. grapeseed oil

5 Tbs. Nutritional Yeast

4 Tbs. Tabasco Buffalo Sauce

2 tsp. garlic, minced

Directions

In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil and add Brussels Sprouts. Allow to boil for about 3 minutes, or until they turn bright green. Drain and rinse in cold water for 30 seconds before halving each sprout.

Heat a sauté pan on medium with grapeseed oil. When warm add garlic and sea salt, allowing to simmer for one minute. Add halved brussels sprouts to the pan, cut side down and allow to sit until they begin to brown, about 6-8 minutes. Allow to cool slightly before tossing with tabasco and nutritional yeast. Serve warm or cold and garnish with carrots & celery sticks!

{original Tone It Up recipe post here}

Side Note: If you're ready to make a positive change to your diet, I honestly recommend the Tone It Up Nutrition Plan. It helped me learn more about how our bodies process foods, how to pre-plan meals to prevent unhealthy choices and introduced me to new ingredients like almond milk, nutritional yeast and apple cider vinegar. 

This summer they updated the plan- and it is so good! Easy easy easy to read, understand and reference. Plus they release themed add-on versions to the original version a couple of times a year to incorporate seasonal ingredients and food trends. 

Wow, I sound like a TIU commercial! Honestly, I am just happy to have found Tone It Up- and good things shouldn't be kept a secret ;)

sorry chicken wings, you're not missed

workout wednesday

It's Workout Wednesday! But...it's not because I don't do series posts...but I wish I did! 

To coincide with my 'take care of myself + work/life balance' new take on life {see this post} Josh and I have gotten back into the swing of daily workouts. 

It's amazing what 30-60 minutes of sweating, stretching and getting stronger can do for your mind and body. 

Workout/Health/Fitness products I am into right now 

{+ some wish list items!}

Tone It Up Beach Babe DVD 2 

Why did I ever stop doing the Tone It Up workouts?! Katrina and Karena have such a great energy- I absolutely love their brand + their workouts totally deliver. Some of my favorites on their latest Beach Babe DVD are the HIIT cardio workout and the Beach Barre routine. 

Amazing Grass Amazing Meal  

My new go-to breakfast! Amazing Meal is a perfect mix of organic green superfoods {think kale, spinach, broccoli, antioxidizing berries} and 10 grams of complete plant based protein. It tastes great and is a cinch to make- just add almond milk plus one scoop to my blender bottle. It actually keeps me full  until lunch! {I use the Vanilla Chai flavor}

Amazing Grass Green SuperFood 
Amazing Meal without the protein! This is a great detox drink with an extra shot of energy. An easy way to get tons of vegetables, fruits, vitamins and minerals into your body. I am loving the 40,000 ORAC version now which is great for combating free radicals. 

C9 by Champion Women's Capri Compression Tight  

Comfortable, cute, moisture wicking, light weight. I love these workout tights! They are a great price and easy to pick up at Target. 

C9 by Champion Women's Layered Tank with Bra 
See ya pricey Lululemon tops- Target's version is practically just as good and welllll under $64

C9 by Champion Women's 3/4 Sleeve Brushed Cross Back Yoga Coverup  
I am loving this top- I throw it over my workout tanks to run errands or if I get chilly at home. Because yes, husband, it's important that workout clothes are both functional and fashionable. ;)

Wish List Items
Kettlebell  |  I love kettlebell moves because they incorporate so many small and large muscles. What is the best weight to get if I am starting off? I'm thinking 10 or 20 lb....?

Heart Rate Monitor  |   Now that most of my workouts are in  my home {no gym access} I think this would be an encouraging/motivating way to track my workouts and runs. Any advice on brands, models, retailers? 

cheers to sweat

Quick & Easy Guilt-Free Dessert: Cookie Dough Greek Yogurt

I am more of a salty snack lover than a sweet tooth but I struggle with battling the urge to down sleeves of Oreos just like the next person. {um. what?.}

Last night {p.s. after this awesomeeee workout from the Tone It Up girls!} the 'I need a cookie' urge struck me between the eyes. I didn't want to completely negate my sweat session so I slightly sweetened up my go-to Greek yogurt instead. 

New favorite sweeeeeet recipe for you to try! 

Quick & Easy Guilt-Free Dessert: 

Cookie Dough Greek Yogurt

-stir it up the following ingredients till smooth and well mixed-

Fage 0% Greek Yogurt

1 T all natural peanut butter 

1 T honey

1 capful of all natural vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

-

Top with 1/2 T of  mini chocolate chips

Enjoyyyyy!!!

pork tenderloin with blueberry sauce: the recipe

What to do when you see a recipe for pork with blueberries in your Clean Eating magazine and then you lose it forever? Pour yourself a glass of wine and make it up as you go. 

Pork Tenderloin with Blueberry Sauce 

Pork Tenderloin

1. Marinated with olive oil, thyme and apple jelly
2. Brown on all 4 sides over medium-high heat (less than 5 minutes total)
3. Roast in a 350 degree oven for 25-30 minutes (meat thermometer should register over 160 degrees)

while we roast....

Fresh Blueberry Sauce

1. In the same pan you browned the tenderloin- saute half an onion and some garlic 
2. Once tender, deglaze the pan with a wonderful red wine {currently loving this random bottle}
3. Allow the wine to boil and then simmer while it reduces
4. Toss in 1 to 2 cups of fresh or frozen blueberries
5. Add in a dash of red pepper flakes, brown sugar, ginger and dry mustard
6. As the tenderloin continues to roast you will have plenty of time to play with the flavors- for more spice increase the ginger and/or pepper; for more sweetness lay on the brown sugar or more berries; for more savory richness add in more dry mustard. 

This was a 'taste-while-you-go' kind of sauce that worked out in my favor. {#lucky} It was deliciously sweet and tangy, the texture was wonderful- the berries and onion were so tender and the sauce was thick and smooth. I loved how the blueberry sauce gave the warm and tender pork added dimension and a hint of sweetness. 

Delish! I hope you make this & enjoy! 

the summer hangover

Yeah it may still be hot and humid in Atlanta, but fall is coming and its making my heart smile.
This summer was one for the books- a large cocktail of work work work with a sidecar of more more more has caused quite the hangover. 

Nothing sounds better than a 'new season'- a change in the weather, a lovely layer for the wardrobe and a renewed spirit in my heart and soul. 

So believe me when I say I am raising a glass to a new season! 

-fall fashion musts for me-

j.crew ponte pant

dogeared gold 'luck' elephant necklace

j.crew men's striped sweatshirt

ae riding boots

j.crew quilted puffer vest in herringbone

c.wonder belt

target kinley bootie

{hey, maybe in this new season I will figure out a work/life balance and...drum roll....blog more often!!!!}

oh hello there

Happy Friday!!!

WE MADE IT THROUGH MARKET! Guys, that totally deserves an all-caps shout out. The best part...it went well! If you follow me on Instagram I am sure you saw the pictures of some of our speakers- Ted Allen, Emily Henderson, Lara Casey and so many more. {+ posted below}

As we begin planning for our upcoming September Gourmet Market, the girls and I found ourselves in gourmet dreamworld...drooling over all of the amazing Atlanta talent, their decadent dishes and fabulous restaurants. Above is our little list of must-try places.

Many of them Josh and I have fallen in love with already and many are places on our 2013 bucket list to try! 

Bon Appetit! 

+ Market Pics:

Lara Casey

Ted Allen

 The Property Brothers

Emily Henderson

 Trace Adkins

 Lindsay Roberts

Glitterville & their pet Silky Chicken! 

blogging is fun, I should do that more often... :)

national donut day! banana chocolate protein donuts

It's National Donut Day! Are you kidding me??!?! Why are the schools and businesses and postal offices not closed? This is BIG! 

If you follow me on Instagram {@AmandaMacyHall} you are well aware of my infatuation for baked donuts. To recap- Mom convinced me to buy a donut pan to make baked {read "healthy"} donuts back in March and pretty much every weekend since then I have made a new version of donuts...oreo, chocolate chip, lemon, mexican chocolate, cinnamon sugar, strussel, maple and more. 

Today I bring to you my least favorite {oh I bet you sure do want to keep reading, right!!!}

In addition to being my least favorite they are also the healthiest donut I've made! Ding, ding, ding, there had to be a reason. 

The Banana Chocolate Protein Baked Donut

It's not inedible and I would actually make these again!!! :)

Not to mention protein powder, oats, bananas and zero sugar probably looks cuter in summer shorts and bikinis than oreos, cinnamon sugar and maple syrup. 

Ingredients:

-for 6 donuts-

1 ripe banana

2 eggs {whites only}

4 T old fashioned oats

1 scoop protein powder {try this one}

1/2 t baking soda

1/2 t baking powder

1 T pure cocoa powder

Directions:

Set oven to 350 degrees and spray your donut pan {this guy}.

Grind the oats into a flour with a food processor.

Add the rest of your ingredients to the food processor and pulse until well mixed. 

Pour in and bake for 10 minutes! 

{approx!} Nutrition Info*:

9g carbs

3g fat

6g protein

These donuts were a breeze to whip up! I loved getting to use my food processor for this recipe- it made the clean up super quick. 

I made one batch of 6 donuts Sunday night and have been grabbing one each morning for a quick and easy breakfast. They don't even need to be warmed up! 

The taste is primarily the taste of your protein powder plus banana- so adding cinnamon or more cocoa to the recipe would probably help give it a boost. 

Cheers to early morning protein, no-prep breakfast, sugar free & flour free donuts! 

I promise to post a deliciously sugary sweet donut recipe next ;)

*This recipe is slightly adapted from {here}- my version does not include the frosting and adds cocoa powder. Keep in mind that the nutritional content is greatly dependant on the type of protein powder that you use. 

the green drink recipe recap

{ green drink recipes! }

Thank you for reading about my journey through new green drink recipes this week! I hope that you will try some of these or better yet make up your own and share them with me! 

what we tried this week:

{green drink recipe}

{green drink recipe}

{green drink recipe}

{green drink recipe}

--{blended drink benefits reminder}--

These 'whole food blended drinks' are full of health benefits*:

Fiber: Blending instead of juicing retains the natural fiber of the fruits and vegetables! This does wonders for your digestive system and is healthy to consume daily. 

Add-Ins: Blended drinks take well to nutritional goodies like chia seeds, ground flaxseed and protein powder- your drink will already have a bit of texture, so what is a little bit more!

Meal Replacement: Because of all the fiber, nutrients and add-ins, a full glass of a green drink can keep you completely satisfied for around 3 hours.

Quick + Easy: The fruits and veggies just need a rough chop then in they go, the blender takes care of the rest and you aren't left having to clean out a juicer or deal with pulp.

Deceptively Delicious: Add the veggies you normally wouldn't reach for and all of a sudden you are introducing new foods and nutrients to your body- without having to really taste them.

{Some points to note:}

• Pre-made drinks only last about 3-4 days
• Blend for as little time as possible {under a minute}
• If the consistency isn't as thin as you like- just add water. It's better to have more juice on hand than to 'over blend' and risk too much oxidation. 
• If you prefer cold smoothie-like drinks- freeze the fruit you are using or toss in some ice cubes

I hope you begin to add one or two of these into your diet/lifestyle each day- you'll be glad you did! 

Enjoy the weekend + Go Green! 

 check out some of my past posts on green drinks & protein shakes:

• cherry + lemon green drink: the recipe & review
• strawberry lemonade green drink: the recipe & review
• watermelon + lime green drink: the recipe & review
• the green 411: tips & tricks to great drinks + my everyday drink recipe
• blended & roasted: the green drink formula
• TIU update: a new protein powder
• keep your peel on: recipe for a frozen green drink treat
• the cleanse: my DIY whole food drink cleanse
• veggie juice overload: a pink drink option
• tropical transport: tropical protein shake recipe
• prepping for healthy: the bounce back smoothie recipe

cherry + lemon green drink

{ cherry + lemon green drink }

THE RECIPE:

• 3 stalks of kale
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced {peel on or off}
• 1 cup cherries, pits removed
• Juice of 2 lemons {or to taste}
• 1 cup water

{makes 2 pint sized drinks}

toss all ingredients into the blender & blend until you reach your desired consistency

*put frozen ingredients in first & layer the kale between the other ingredients -- this helps the blending process

{how pretty are the colors?!}

THE REVIEW:

{from josh} First sip was a bit sour, but as I kept drinking it became a bright and fruity taste.  Delicious!

{from amanda} I have to agree with my husband on this one- sour & tart! This drink also has a more textured consistency than the others. Tasty though! 

there ya have it! 3 new green drink recipes to try- let me know how you like them! 

 check out some of my past posts on green drinks & protein shakes:

• strawberry lemonade green drink: the recipe & review
• watermelon + lime green drink: the recipe & review
• the green 411: tips & tricks to great drinks + my everyday drink recipe
• blended & roasted: the green drink formula
• TIU update: a new protein powder
• keep your peel on: recipe for a frozen green drink treat
• the cleanse: my DIY whole food drink cleanse
• veggie juice overload: a pink drink option
• tropical transport: tropical protein shake recipe
• prepping for healthy: the bounce back smoothie recipe