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Nine Favorite Things | halfbakedharvest.com

(Nine Favorite Things – photo from Aaron Blatt)

Very excited to finally be able to share with you all that my younger brother, Red, will again be a member of the US Olympic Snowboard Team!! As will Hailey (Langland), Red’s girlfriend. So Red, Hail’s, and my bother Malachi are all heading to China at the end of the month!!

We’ve known since last year that Red made the team, but I hesitated to say anything until they officially announced it. Last night a ceremony was held in Mammoth, CA to announce the full team, so the news is out!! As you may know, no family or spectators outside of mainland China are allowed to attend. This is obviously a huge bummer for us, but we’re trying to make the best of it!

I don’t know if you guys remember our trip to South Korea four years ago. The entire family went. All my brothers, cousins, 3 girlfriends (one is now a wife), and 1 boyfriend (now a husband). There were 18 of us in total (I would have been mortified if I was Red). We all made our way to South Korea to watch both Red and Hailey compete. It was one of those trips that you’ll never forget. It was absolutely FREEZING, but an experience most don’t ever get.

It’s obviously very different this time around. But I’m so incredibly happy that Kai gets to go to China with the them. He’s filming.

So I thought I’d start this post with the most exciting news first!! Fingers crossed that everything keeps moving forward and that covid doesn’t spoil it for anyone. These things are out of anyone’s control, so we’re just hoping for the best! We’re just so proud of both Red and Hail’s. They’ve worked so hard and stayed consistent, all of their hard work has paid off!

Everything else that I have to share today really doesn’t compare. We got lots and lots and lots of snow, it was very pretty and cozy. We had a mountain lion in the area that got our neighbors ducks and chickens. Thankfully animal control was able to catch it. So I’m feeling much safer going out for my hikes in the morning. And that’s pretty much it! We’ll let Red and Hail’s shine today, they certainly deserve it.

Enjoy this week’s favorites! Lots of New Year links below!

1. Things i’m loving, wanting, and excited to try…

loving… the GOOPGLOW Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator. I just used this for the first time and love the way my skin feels after using it. My goal is to try and do this 2-3 times a week.

watching…Harry Potter 20th Anniversary Return to Hogwarts. I don’t know how I just found out about this, but I actually think I need to buy HBO Max just to watch. The trailer is so good and there isn’t a movie/series I love more than Harry Potter.

listening to…10 Life Changing Lessons Learn by Doing over 400 Podcast interviews. Really awesome for some new year motivation.

burning…Boy Smells Figurare Candle. I burned through broken rosary, and am now burning the figurare scent. It’s still cozy and nice for January days. I need some new winter candles though!

reading…about Food Combining and How Food Digests. I find this really so interesting and logical. This is a good read if you have an interest in food and/or better digestion.

loving…Tata Harper Restorative Eye Cream. I use this in the morning and it really helps to lighten and brighten the skin around my eyes while keeping it moisturized. I’ve mentioned this cream before, so you know I really do love it. Also, CeraVe Healing Ointment for super dry skin. And I’m curious to try Lano golden dry skin miracle salve

thinking of ordering…The North Face Thermal Slipper. I love a pair of Uggs when it comes to slippers, but these are on sale. And a thermal slipper sounds pretty nice. Or these Uggs, which my mom just got. It’s cozy season!

also thinking of ordering….this Infrared Sauna Blanket. I’ve heard so much about this the last few months. And while all the benefits sound amazing (detoxifies the body, relaxes the mind, boosts your mood, promotes glowing skin), I honestly just love the idea of sitting in a heated bag on cold nights, which is every night around here. Some related reading, 3 At-Home Wellness Routines Featuring Infrared Heat.

loving…the Zara winter collection. These faux leather pants are so cute, but love the affordable price. This cable sleeve scarf, zippered sweater, and black + white sweater are so cozy, and I love this long knit coat.

drinking…Arrae Bloat Latte. Honestly, I’ve just been drinking this because it’s a really warming blend of spices. I certainly love sipping on something hot with all the cold and snow.

loving…True Botanicals. They sent me their line of clean beauty products before Christmas break. But I’ve been familiar with the brand for a long time. Excited to try some of their new collection.

loving…this Hanging Rattan Basket. Would be so cute by the door for winter hats and gloves.

ordered…Sfoglini Pasta. They have such fun shapes.

2. Easy, cozy winter recipes.

Healthier Homemade One Pot Hamburger Helper | halfbakeharvest.com

Healthier Homemade One Pot Hamburger Helper

Crispy Roasted Cauliflower with Creamy Pesto Pasta | halfbakedharvest.com

Crispy Roasted Cauliflower with Creamy Pesto Pasta

30 Minute Creamy Thai Turmeric Chicken and Noodles | halfbakedharvest.com

30 Minute Creamy Thai Turmeric Chicken and Noodles

Coconut Sweet Potato Lentil Soup with Rice | halfbakedharvest.com #soup #healthy #dinner #autumnrecipes #vegan

Coconut Sweet Potato Lentil Soup with Rice

Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup with Salty Lime Chips | halfbakedharvest.com

Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup with Salty Lime Chips

30 Minute Spicy Miso Chicken Katsu Ramen | halfbakedharvest.com

30 Minute Spicy Miso Chicken Katsu Ramen

3. Home office refresh for the New Year.

4. Favorite questions of the week.

q: what’s one of your biggest regrets?
a: I really don’t have any. I’ve learned from everything I once regretted and am happy for the missteps/mistakes. They allowed me to grow in a positive way.

q: what’s you favorite Christmas gift you’ve received?
a: it’s always Asher’s! She makes me something instead of buying something because she knows I really hate getting gifts. I could never turn down something she made. My favorite is a photo she painted me!!

fun fact: I’m learning more and more that I LOVE to give gifts, but really hate receiving them ??‍♀️

q: favorite brand of athletic leggings?
a:
love Alo. I just ordered a few things, but the lounge legging is my favorite. Their new espresso color is so good. 

q: where do I find cardamon bitters?
a: lots of questions about this, I made my own. Just mix 1 tablespoon crushed cardamom pods with 1/2 cup vodka. then let this sit at least a couple days to develop flavor.

q: it’s such a build up to the holidays, what do you look forward to in January/February?
a: agree! January can be hard. Try planning something fun like a ski trip or a Saturday dinner with friends to look forward to. I’m excited for a new month of “Healthy January” recipes and brainstorming new goals with our team 😉 And in February, HBH Every Day comes out. So we have a lot of fun things + travel happening!! I’ll be sharing more later in January, but hopefully you can come to a signing 🙂 

q: something someone told you that had great impact on your life?
a: when my mom was pregnant with Asher I was 14. I had a therapist tell my mom and me that her having a baby would be one of the worst things for me (I was struggling with school anxiety). It was bizarre, who says that to someone who is pregnant? But it stuck with me ever since. I knew it wasn’t true. It made me determined to give this new sibling (my mom never found out the sex of her kids) nothing but love and someone to hopefully look up to.

My mom having Asher was one of the best things that’s happened to me. I loved taking care of Asher and helping out as much as I could. Like cooking, having someone to care for shifted my focus. It gave me a purpose other than just going to school. Ever since then, I’ve only wanted to be the best version of myself because I’m Asher’s only sister. I just want to be a positive figure in her life, like she is for me. 

It’s a little cheesy I guess, but it was something that changed my life. I didn’t know it then, but I do now.

q: how many recipes are you working on in a regular “workday”?
a: usually 2, sometimes 3.

q: do you like New York as much as you love LA?
a: I love NYC! I wish I visited more, I actually prefer it to LA. I just love the energy.

5. Favorite photos from this weekend.

Nine Favorite Things | halfbakedharvest.com

Nine Favorite Things | halfbakedharvest.com

(all photos are from Aaron Blatt)

6.Quote of the week.

Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt”

As spoken by Ms. Hailey Langland herself…but originally by Abraham Lincoln. Basically, Hailey doesn’t talk shit about anyone or anything. She says it’s because she’s looked up to others she thought were amazing before (not only for her, but for others). It later turned out that some of those people were the first to turn around and talk behind someone’s back. She’s the only person I know that really doesn’t say a single bad thing about anyone. And the girl is one of the happiest girls I know. She just might have discovered the real secret to life.

Nine Favorite Things | halfbakedharvest.com

7. Favorite links i’m loving…

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Jackson, Wyoming…the picturesque winter vacation.

45 Under-$100 Zara, Mango, and H&M Buys…love these affordable finds.

Here’s Everything Coming to Netflix in January…what’s on your watch list?

Inside a Palm Spring Weekend Home…so pretty, what a perfect vacation home.

15 Most Anticipated High-Design Hotel Openings of 2022…I’d visit any of these places, but Turks and Caicos looks very nice for spring break.

What a Health Coach Actually Buys From Trader Joe’s…if you’re looking for healthy options.

Estheticians Recommend *These* Self-Tanners…I love Dr. Dennis Gross and Kora Organics.

Tour a Ken Fulk–Designed Vail Retreat…a very pretty mountain home.

My Hands Have Been Extra Dry This Winter…I think it’s time for a hand mask.

The 6 Best Washer and Dryer Sets…I’m in need of a new set, so I’m doing my research.

The Perfect Trip to Ireland Is Two-Part…so pretty, would love to visit some day.

The 28 Best TV Shows of 2021…I watched none of these – whoops.

Upgrade Your Kitchen With These Non Toxic Cookware Sets…new year, new kitchen, new supplies.

Why Giving Up Alcohol Could Transform Your Skin…interesting if you’re looking for a lifestyle change.

8. Favorite warm and cozy winter coats.

9. This week’s dinners + weekend eats…

Coconut Milk Braised Black Pepper Chicken with Sweet Potatoes | halfbakedharvest.com

Monday: Coconut Milk Braised Black Pepper Chicken

Crockpot Korean Inspired Tacos with Yum Yum Yummm Sauce | halfbakedharvest.com

Tuesday:  Crockpot Korean Inspired Tacos with Yum Yum Yummm Sauce

Lighter Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup | halfbakedharvest.com

Wednesday: Lighter Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Folded Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wraps | halfbakedharvest.com

Thursday: Folded Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wraps

Kale Caesar Salad with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Chickpeas | halfbakedharvest.com #caesarsalad #kale

Friday: Kale Caesar Salad with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Chickpeas

Salted Tahini Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies | halfbakedharvest.com

Saturday: Salted Tahini Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Salty Chocolate Chunk Rye Banana Bread | halfbakedharvest.com

Sunday: Salty Chocolate Chunk Rye Banana Bread

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Comments

  1. I am late to the party here with my comment but I just cannot keep this to myself. I have a sister who is 12 years older than me and another 20 years older than me. They were the best things that could have happened to me. You will be that for Asher because you are including her in your life the way my sisters included me. My sisters always had my back, they listen(ed) to me with intent, they encourage(d) me, they were honest with me, as only a family member can be, and they unconditionally love(d) me. Our lives together were not perfect: we have argued, we have said nasty things to one another, and we have disagreed on hot topics. Despite that, we agreed to let each other be their own person and respected each other’s choices. One of the most important lessons they taught me was to make the effort. It is so easy to get busy and let life get in the way of relationships, but it is the relationships in life that make it so wonderful. It is easy to be close now because Asher is young and in close proximity. As she gets older and makes her way out, make the effort to keep her as a priority. Your impact is making, and will continue to make, a difference. Like me, she is one very blessed girl.

    1. Hi Gale,
      Thank you so much for reading along and sharing your story about your sisters. I love hearing about relationships like this and truly feel so blessed to have the relationship that I have with Asher. Asher will definitely always be a priority in my life:) I hope you have a wonderful week! xTieghan

  2. I had missed this Nine FT and came back to it after reading this week’s post. I commented on Insta stories about Red and Hailey, but just wanted to say congrats! Love how supportive everyone is of each other. Delish recipes too, easily adapted to vegetarian. Cheers to all! M

    1. Hi Maria,
      Thank you so much for reading and sharing your nice message about Red and Hailey. We are obviously so very excited for them! Have the best week:) xTieghan

  3. I’m a bit late to reply to this one, however great blog post and photos and wanted to wish your brother Red and his partner Hailey a safe trip and hope that they have a good winter Olympics.

  4. Hi Tieghan!
    Can you give other recipes for making your own bitters? I live in Maui and it is hard to find them here. Would love to make an old fashioned cocktail. Not even sure what angostura bitters are?? Thanks!

  5. I saw Red’s Insta post announcing he made the team! So exciting. Bummer you all don’t get to go this time. The tv coverage of your entire family partying it up, at the last Olympics, was the best! Good luck!

    1. Hey Heather,
      LOL too funny you saw that! We had the best time and are super bummed we don’t get to go this year. Thanks for reading along! Have a great week! xTieghan

  6. I look forward to the next nine favourites post from basically the minute I finish reading the current one! Good luck to Hailey and Red I will be on the lookout for them when I am binging the Olympics… it’s great that they are both on the team and so both can go even when the rest of the family can’t.

    I tried the coconut braised chicken, the crunch wraps and the broccoli and cheddar soup this week… all delicious. Looking forward to all the January recipes! Can’t wait for the new cookbook to come out! Got both the previous ones for Christmas!

    1. Hi Rosie,
      Thank you so much for reading each week, I love that you enjoy these posts as much as me:) Thanks for trying so many recipes, I appreciate you being here and making them! Have the best week! xTieghan

  7. Read your blog everyday! But food combining has been debunked numerous times as a legit scientific theory of bettering nutrition/digestion

  8. Right before I read this, I was watching Red on tv! When I realized it was him and screamed “I know him!”. My husband asked how to which my response was “Well not really, but I can name all of his siblings and tell you what he ate on Christmas!” 🙂

    1. Hey Angie,
      LOL I love this!! Thanks so much for watching and reading today:) I hope you have a fantastic week! xTieghan

  9. The Harry Potter 20th Anniversary is absolutely fabulous; so many laughs and tears. It’s done as well as you’d expect! missed the Q&A this week. It’s one of my favorite things!

    1. Hi Terry,
      Thanks so much for sharing, I will definitely have to check it out! I hope you have a great week and thanks for reading! xTieghan

  10. Hi again Tieghan,
    I sent an email earlier today referencing Christmas with Southern Living books and made a mistake. My fav article was in 2016 pp. 10-29, A Forest Feast. Simply awesome. There are several others in their books but this is the best. Reminds me so much of my Dad who has passed away. He was always in charge of the Christmas decor and Mom the cooking. Such great memories! Sorry about the confusion.

  11. Always love reading about your family, Tieghan! Especially Red! Can’t believe it’s been 4 years already since South Korea. I really love that you have such a special connection with Asher. I was the youngest and have a sister 3 years older than me and we actually have never ever gotten along. Ever! Even when we were little. I was just thinking the other day that it may be 10 years since I’ve seen her. I also wanted to tell you how impressed and in awe I am of your mom and dad adopting Oslo. He looks so happy in every picture and such a cute little toot. I just think of all the opportunities he will now have in his life , all thanks to your mom and dad and also, all the love he will always have from everyone in your family. Something he would likely never have gotten. He is one lucky little boy and your parents seem like such good role models for all of you. I think all of you are very fortunate to have such great parents!

    1. Hey Colleen,
      Thanks so much for reading and sharing your story with me. 4 years really does fly by! So sorry to hear about your relationship with your sister, I can’t imagine not having Asher in my life. We are truly so blessed to have added Oslo to our family, he is such a blessing and my parents really are the best:) I hope you have an amazing week! xTieghan

  12. I was 13 years old when my mom had my youngest brother. I never had an issue with it and loved taking care of him! All of my friends enjoyed helping out with him. A great experience.