Man oh man…it wasn’t until after I was finished writing up this post that I realized just how much good food was had yesterday over here. Seriously…there was some GOOD eats.
Breakfast
Same thing as Monday. Two banana oat muffins with peanut butter + coffee (which I usually only finish about half of, if that).
Mid-Morning Snack
A pineapple Greek yogurt
Plus a small handful of almonds (LOVE these, by the way)
I had to run out on my lunch hour, and wound up getting a huge craving for an Iced Passion Tea Lemonade from Starbucks. Since I was “in the neighborhood,” I figured I’d swing through the drive-thru and grab one. A venti one, at that.
Of course, the line at the drive-thru wound up getting ridiculously backed up and I ended up waiting in line for almost 10 minutes. Lucky for me, my patience was rewarded with a free drink coupon.
Lunch
By the time I got back to the office, I was starrrrving so I quickly broke into my lunch.
Which was a generous helping of leftovers from Monday night’s Taco Salad. I actually just made this one right as I was making dinner, which was sooo nice to just have ready for me.
*P.S. – Recipe comin’ atcha later this afternoon!
Mid-Afternoon Snack
My stomach felt really weird mid-afternoon – almost like I was super full feeling, but felt hungry at the same time. Eventually, the hunger won over, despite the odd fullness sensation, so I snacked on a Clif Z Bar.
Totally did the trick and tided me over until it was time for the DELICIOUS dinner that we had on hand…
Dinner
Jay and I headed over shortly after work to Sarah & Jeff’s house for an incredible meal of homemade cheesesteaks. When I tell you that this is a meal I’ve practically been begging Sarah to make me for months, I’m not even kidding.
My excitement was through the roof, as if you couldn’t tell by my outrageous overuse of emoji icons.
Sarah had all of the goods ready and waiting by the time we got there, so it wasn’t long before we were all assembling our on cheesesteaks.
Once they were all assembled, we popped them into the oven to let the cheese get all nice and melty. Ohhhh yes.
Any guesses which one was mine?!
Well, if you guessed the one second from the left, you were correct.
I stuffed my monster of a cheesesteak with plenty of fresh cut beef, sautéed peppers and onions, a little bit of Cheese Whiz (yes, I cannot even tell you the last time I had it, but Sarah swears that it makes the cheesesteaks!) and plenty of provolone along the top.
As Sarah said, this is certainly not a meal where you worry about how bad you’re eating, so you might as well go big…and I totally agree. The cheesesteak was uhhhh-mazing, and so were the sweet potato fries that went with it.
After spending a few hours of the evening over at their place, we headed home for the night and there may or may not have been a handful or two of pretzel m&m’s that got consumed before bedtime. Juuuust sayin’.
*****
It’s so funny to look at my eats these days compared to what I was eating at this time, say, a year ago. Granted, yes, I’m preggo, but the majority of the time I really don’t feel like it has had that much of an impact on my eating. Sure I get hungry a bit more often, but I just think my attitude and outlook on food in general has shifted dramatically in the past year…and honestly, I think it’s for the better.
It’s something I’ve thought about writing about one of these days, and maybe I will…but I’m still not quite sure how to put all of those thoughts into words. I actually do have quite a few thoughts on it all. But, needless to say, I like that I’ve been able to make these changes and feel comfortable with them. It has honestly made a world of difference for me in so many ways.
ANYWAYS…time for me to scoot. Happy Wednesday to you all! And like I said…a little recipe headed your way this afternoon!
chelcie @ chelcie's food files says
i can’t wait for the recipe that salad looks amazing! and so does that cheesesteak!
Faith says
I am definitely intrigued to hear your thoughts on your diet, if you ever feel like sharing them.
I feel like I’m forever caught in this cycle of “MUST EAT CLEAN AND HAVE FLAT TUMMY” vs “IDGAF I WANT THE FRIESSSSSSSS”. And on, and on, and on…it’s frustrating, to say the least, but it is interesting to see how certain views change over time. And views on something as deeply personal and intricate as food, at that!
Mariève says
I’m with you 100%
Avery @ southern belle living well says
I understand the full/really hungry feeling. I don’t mean to get TMI, but normally, I’ve found it’s because I’m hungry, but need to use the restroom. Sweet potato fries are so good! I love them more than regular fries, way more flavor!
Maureen @ Breaking Free & Finding Me says
what a delicious day of eats! And I’d love to hear those thoughts, should you ever find the words to express them :)
Katie @ Talk Less, Say More says
I love realizing how much my outlook on eating has changed (for the better!) because all things in moderation – including indulgences from time to time – is really the best way for ME to live without feeling deprived.
Heather @fitncookies says
Oh my gosh! I have never eaten a cheesesteak, but after looking at yours, I think that has to change! Those look delicious, and the sweet potato fries look magnificent!
I’m glad you are feeling great about how your food eating has changed. I think we all et so stuck into what we should be eating, and have a hard time vearing away from it! Congrats, though, because it is a good thing you have done :)
I’d love to hear your thoughts if you can get them into words!
Annddd I’m excited for this recipe!
Emily N says
Pregnant or not, I think Cheez Whiz BELONGS on a cheesesteak. Ate one in Philly with cheez whiz and it is towards the top of the “best things I have ever eaten” list.
Hannah @ CleanEatingVeggieGirl says
You are right!! This looks like a fabulous day of eats, especially your taco salad for lunch and your dinner! I am such a sucker for some crispy sweet potato fries.
Oh, and I totally find it funny that those Clif bars are for “kids.” Don’t they know that some of the “kid” flavors are really the best flavors?? ;)
Sarah @PickyRunner says
I’d love to hear how things have changed for you with eating. I’ve come a long way in a year too. It’s always fascinating to look back on. Iced Oatmeal cookie z bars are the way to my heart. I love them so much.
Linz @ Itz Linz says
YUM! your food always looks so tasty!! can’t wait for the recipe – i think i love mexican as much as you!!
Sara @ fitcupcaker says
cheesesteaks sound amazing! I havent made those in forever but my step son loves em!
chelsey @ clean eating chelsey says
I feel like my eating has changed a lot over the last year or so too. Not only do I feel a little more balanced (and not like an annoying person who “won’t” eat this or that), but I kind of like potato chips. I’m okay with that.
Angela @ Health's Angel says
Oh, I’d definitely love to see a post on your change in eating habits. I find that topic really interesting, and I can relate. It’s amazing how much my diet has changed (for the better!) over the last few years. It’s done wonders for me in so many ways. I’m still working on being more “relaxed” when it comes to eating, though. It’s a work in progress for sure.
Lauren @ Confessions of a First Time Mom says
I spent the last half of my pregnancy feeling full but hungry. It’s a weird sensation, I know. I think it’s like..the baby is pushing on your belly and taking up space, but your body knows you need to eat to provide sustenance to them? And yes, the hunger always wins out. Pregnancy does a really good job of helping women get over their food issues, at least it helped me. I stopped restricting myself, and enjoyed all the foods I denied myself for so many years (red meat..mostly). I’m happy it’s helped you as well!
Shel@PeachyPalate says
That’s a mighty looking cheesecake! Looking forward to a lickle recipe!
Sam @ Better With Sprinkles says
Those cheesesteaks look incredible! i think i need to make them for the boyfriend soon, he loves them.
I would definitely be curious to see a post about how your relationship with food has changed.
Jana @ happy wife healthy life says
It is amazing how our eating habits can change so much at different points in our lives. I have not gone through a pregnancy, but I so know my eating style has changed dramatically over the last few years and I am so so happy they have! Eating is so much more enjoyable and freeing at this point than it has been in a long time! :)
Stacey M. says
I would absolutely love to read your thoughts on how your relationship with food, fitness and healthy living in general has changed in the past year. I can relate to your struggles with eating and living healthy because I too suffered from disordered eating for many years. It’s no way to live, that’s for sure. I’ve since let go of the strict eating habits I once embraced and have never been happier. It is truly a liberating experience.
Jennifer@knackfornutrition says
You’ll have to share that recipe! It looks great!
Natalie @ Free Range Human says
Those cheesesteaks look so awesome! That’s one of my favorite meals! I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on your new outlook towards food. I feel like I’m going through a similar transformation right now.
Erin @Axell's Kitchen says
Being pregnant is amazingly what really helped me with all of the food issues I had! You wouldn’t think that getting bigger would help, but for me it did! It was the first time in years that I didn’t focus on me and my body but on eating healthy for the baby!
Lauren @ Berry Sweet Lauren says
I. Love. Cheesesteaks. I tried making them a few weeks ago and the beef was no good. Any chance your friend would let you share her recipe?
Melanie @ Beautifully Nutty says
Your Tuesday eats look outstanding! I’m a little jealous! Baby is getting some wonderful food from mama!
Ashley @ Life and Fitness says
I would be begging my friend to make cheesesteaks if they looked like that. Holy moley those are huge and look delicious!!!
Clare @ Fitting It All In says
Court – I’d LOVE to hear your thoughts on how your eating has changed for the better. There is a big “intuitive eating” challenge/trend going on right now, with girls relaxing on their ideas of “good vs bad” food, eating what they are craving, and trusting their bodies cravings. It’s wonderful, really, especially with all of the strict fitness eating and diets going around at the same time, to see people developing a healthier relationship with food.
Alexandra says
Yum! You’re right that WAS a delicious day of eats!! My outlook on health and food has changed dramatically over the past 2 years..I actually feel sad for my “2 year ago self”…I was SCARED to eat sweets and fast food…thank goodness I grew up and realized what is REALLY important in life! now I there are zero foods that are off limits for me and I eat what my body is craving when it is craving it! I am SO much happier and have only gained about 5-6 pounds since making this change (which I probably needed to gain anyways). Life is too short to stress about food! I would love to hear your opinion on all of this if you ever decide to write a post on it – I know it would be a great one :)
Lisa says
Looks like a lovely day of eats!
I totally think you should write about your changing eating habits! I think it’s really important for young girls/guys to develop healthy eating habits, and let’s admit, some blogs don’t exactly portray the healthiest perspective of good eating, or even healthy eating.
Can’t wait to see the recipe:)
Andrea @ Andrea out loud! says
YUM I made cheesesteaks last week too!!
I went to a friends one time that did up a bunch of cheesesteaks for us and she had one type that she had put pineapple on… as weird as it sounds it was DELISH!
Dorsa @ Running Thoughts says
omg those cheesesteaks look amazing!
Khushboo says
I haven’t been commenting much but I’m still reading, Court :)! I loved this post and can’t wait to read your “evolution” in eating! I feel like I went through the exact same thing. Not being controlled by food and just being able to eat, enjoy and move on feels oh so liberating! Although I am still (and love to) eat healthy for the most part, I am more than okay with indulging every so often…whether or not I have mentally planned for the splurge if you know what I mean! Fortunately I haven’t gained weight yet have gained more mentally & emotionally!
Amanda says
oh hell yea! those cheesesteaks look freaking delicious!! i love the legit cheese sauce on mine :) makes me feel like i’m in philly! now i’m craving one….and a iced passion tea lemonade!
Courtney says
I would love to hear your thoughts on the changes you have made/noticed.
Ashley @ My Food N Fitness Diaries says
Oh wowwww, those cheesesteaks look incredible! Re: what you said at the end of this post, I could’ve written that myself. ;) I’m so thankful I’ve made those changes because I’m at a much better place in life AND we have our little blessings on the way…can’t beat that! xoxo
Lauren says
I really hope you write the post about your relationship with food and how it has changed dramatically. To be honest, I started following your blog a while ago because of your background story. I find it inspiring for myself and it just gives everyone a nice outlook to get back to their original life. It kind of upsets me when people delete their past from their bios and pretend it never happened; granted, I’m sure it’s just because they’re happy it’s over. I noticed your growth through the past year, too, and I’m proud of you soon to be Mommy! :-)
PS. Cheez-wiz FREAKS me out haha!
Sarah @ Blonde Bostonian says
How incredible it must feel to have your thoughts and feelings about food change so much for the better, especially now that you’re going to be a mama. Congrats! And I can’t wait for that taco salad recipe!
Amanda @ .running with spoons. says
All of your eats DO look fantastic, but I’m especially loving what you said at the end. My diet is a lot different these days from where it was a year ago, and I feel like it’s for the better as well. Sure I don’t eat as many veggies and enjoy a lot more indulgent foods, but I honestly feel and look better than I ever have. I think that stressing about eating the perfect diet and constantly having to tell yourself that you’re not “allowed” to eat something does a real number on the mind and ends up doing more harm than good. Life is meant to be enjoyed and savoured… not carefully monitored and restricted.
Steph @ StephSnacks says
I think it’s sooo good that your thoughts on eating have changed! Even though you’re pregnant, you allow yourself to choose what’s best for YOU and what you want and how to do that in moderation. Very admirable!
Lauren says
Starbucks is always so good about making up for their mistakes. Last week, they messed up my drink (not a big deal), made me a new one in a larger size, and gave me a free drink coupon. Obviously, I’ll be back. :)
Glad you had a great night with friends. Love you girl!
Meghan @ After the Ivy League says
I’d venture to say that your eats have changed for the better too, and the outlook on food/health in general. Yes you eat healthy most of the time, but you don’t let it stop you from enjoying the odd handful of M&M’s and cheesesteak! It’s all about balance. I haven’t had a cheesesteak in ages either and I need to fix that!
Taran VB says
Would love the recipe from your friends for the cheese steaks! They look amazing!
Jenny@The Wellness Journey says
SO glad to see so many referring to changing their relationship with food to the positive! All things in moderation! And intuitive eating (Clare mentioned) is a great way to look at it! It’s “okay” to cave to a crave. :-)
We are meant to have curves ladies! So refreshing to see outlooks are finally changing! <3
Kristen says
It helps me to see you eating more balanced. It has taken me time to learn it’s okay to indulge.
Karen says
Those cheesesteaks look very good. I can’t wait to see the taco salad recipe, what is the dressing you have on it?
Angel says
Your eats look awesome! And if love to read a post about your new views on food!
Kimberly Ann says
Oh man, this post made me hungry! All of that looks delicious and I’m definitely looking forward to that recipe!!
Kimberly Ann
http://trendkeeper.wordpress.com
Koryn @ High Heels & Healthy Alternatives says
Agreed – what a great day of eats!! :-) Also, like many others, I’d love to hear your thoughts on your evolution in eating/fitness. I agree that it seems like a positive change! I really do believe that when you have a full, healthy life and you’re genuinely happy with yourself, you realize there’s much more to life than food and trying to eat perfectly clean, 100% of the time… And of course, there’s nothing like bringing life into the world to help you realize how blessed you already are. Cheers to you & your fam! :-)
Annette@FitnessPerks says
I love Greek yogurt for snacks. Mmmmm!
I think it’s awesome to hear/see people’s thoughts/views change on food, especially because mine have completely changed too–and for the better, and I’m actually healthier & fitter for it. ANd I have a healthier mindset!
I eat what I want, when I want, and I’m totally cool with it. Some nights I want ice cream. Some nights I want a protein mess. And some nights I eat chips. And I’m totally happy! And my blood work hasn’t been better :)
Raychel says
I am TOTALLY drooling over this whole post!!!
Lindsay says
Homemade cheesesteaks….does it get any better?? :D
Lift, Sleep, Eat says
haha when i first saw the title of your post i thought it said cheesecake not cheesesteak so i was waiting for this whopping picture of a slice of cheesecake! the cheesesteaks look equally delicious though :p mmmm!
Jentry Nielsen says
I LOVE LOVE LOVE sweet potato fries, too much maybe! ha These cheesecake sandwiches look so good too! I’ve got to try this meal out sometime, no wonder you were so excited about it ;)
I would gladly wait in a Starbucks line for 10minutes for a free drink coupon, that’s great and so worth it! ha
Suzanne @ Mixing It Up says
I think you should write about it!! I was actually just thinking the other day how I actually enjoy your blog so much more now that you are pregnant. Don’t get me wrong, I have always loved it but I can see such a difference in your relationship with food and exercise. While being healthy is important(and you are!!), it is nice to see a healthy living blogger actually enjoying tasty foods in moderation and not just eating because of a certain calorie content!!
And for the record, I need to know how they made the beef for the cheesesteaks because I am dying for one over here. OMG, they look delicious!!!
Melissa says
Taco salads are my absolute favorite! I also may have to stop at Starbucks today, that passion tea looks so refreshing.
mike clarke says
Amazing Pictures, Beautiful colors!
Do not forget :”Eat your breakfast, share your lunch with a friend, and give your dinner to your enemy”.
Danielle @ itsaharleyyylife says
those banana oat muffins with peanut butter look delicious! recipe? I love cheesesteaks! we make them all the time!
Debbie (Accidently Delish) says
courtney i LOVE what you said about how you are currently eating and i LOVE that you’re not using your pregnancy as an excuse.
i am finally getting to that point where i am free with what i eat and eat what i WANT. not what i “should” eat or what’s “healthy” if you want a cheese overloaded cheese steak with fries then JUST EAT IT. sounds simple but so many people struggle with eating what they REALLY want.
i am excited to read your post about you talking about it because i just think its so great
i also hope all is going well with your pregnancy! you are sooo cute!!
Emily @ Hungry Delights says
Ahhh cheese steaks look delicious, I have never had one before but I want one now! One of the reasons why I love food and healthy living blogs is to watch how people eating habits evolve (and sometimes devolve) and all the food trends etc that go along with it. I love the way that you eat, it is very balanced and you don’t deprive yourself.
xo Em
Jillian says
Try 2 shots of raspberry in your lemonade next time! Its unreal!
That taco salad looks amazing!
Erica @ For the Sake of Cake says
I just bought that flavor of Clif Z Bars at Target this week after not having them for a while… love them!
Bek @ Crave says
Fantastic day of eats! The cheesesteaks actually look SO good- and you could have worse things don’t worry :) I love how your mindset has changed and as a result you’ve become a healthier person holistically- I hope to reach that stage one time, to be completely at peace and balanced. I think maturing and now living for another human makes a difference. YES write THAT post- Can’t wait to read it.
Sarah says
I would love to read your thoughts on how your eating habits and outlook has changed. I struggled with eating/food for years and it is something that I still feel I work on but have a much better acceptance of food and calories these days. But, my roommate has huge eating problems, won’t eat carbs at all basically, eats a salad or bag of vegetables and that’s all for the day and thinks that is plenty and fills her up. I don’t know how to help her, and from my experience I know how tough it can be to alter someone’s thoughts on food. Hearing your story/”aha” moment of realizing maybe you should change your perspective on food could definitely help :)
Katie says
I don’t usually do much commenting on blogs, But I just had to mention something about your statement at the end with food and being pregnant. I’m currently 40.5 weeks and I agree with looking at food in a different way. I no longer have a bad outlook on certain foods and eat when my belly tells me it is craving certain nutrients and most importantly I want to be getting in enough good foods and calories for the little guy instead of being selfish. It’s crazy what being pregnant will do to your thoughts and attitude! ;)
Leigha says
I think sweet potato fries are in my near future! A year ago, I ate SO differently than I do now. It’s crazy to believe how I used to eat! I feel like I don’t enjoy food as much though anymore..
Danica @ It's Progression says
I’d honestly love if you did do a post on how your eating habits may have changed or how your mindset on food has changed…I think it may be good for a lot of us to hear!
Marc says
Cheese Whiz? Who would have guesses that was the secret to a good cheesesteak? I can feel my arteries getting clogged just thinking about it :)