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5 Tips to maintain a healthy lifestyle while traveling

6/14/2022

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We are all out there trying to be the best version of ourselves each day. It's a (tough) commitment that I've made to myself over the last few years. This mentality doesn't stop when I leave the house! You can maintain a healthy lifestyle while traveling. It's possible there is a balance to it all. Here are 5 tips I use on a consistent basis to keep my mental & physical health in check while on the go.

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Grab a coffee & walk the terminal!

1. Plan a daily walk, even on travel days.

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I don't always feel like exercising or have time when on a family vacation. I know that movement is key to keeping my body active & functioning correctly. So, I always plan to walk each day. Nothing crazy fast or strenuous, just  30 minutes. This could mean exploring an outdoor shopping area, nature trail or nearby neighborhood. At the airport, my husband and I like to walk the kids back and forth through the terminals (no sitting down until closer to flight). This is good for all of us!  *Tip* - wear your walking shoes on your travel day....saves space in your bag & encourages you to move!

Road trips are a bit different. . . simply plan to explore a bit once you get there (aka walk outdoors or around a shopping area) OR take a walk (or workout) before you get in the car. I always try to fit in a workout the morning of travel if possible, it makes me more relaxed!



​If I'm feeling extra motivated. . .
Lately, I've been packing a fabric "booty band" with me on trips. It's super light and easy to cram into a full bag. I don't always use it but it gives me the option of fitting in a leg/booty sequence if I want to. YouTube is a great source for quick resistance band workouts or simply use bodyweight!

The fabric booty bands I love {does NOT slip or smell like rubber lol}: single // set of 3

A more traditional rubber resistance band set: set of 3



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2. eat outside as much as possible.

My husband often makes fun of me due to my love for outdoor dining. This might seem like a funny tip but trust me it's a huge benefit for your mental health. Which we all know is key to our overall health. The fresh air, sunshine & outdoor noises always make me feel lighter. They help me enjoy my location in a deeper way. Plus the vibe outdoors feels less rushed vs inside a restaurant. If you have kids, the scenery is built in entertainment! Bonus they learn the important life lesson of how to shield food from bugs!
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Always trying to fit in a picnic on vacation!

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3. Plan Snacks & Breakfast food.

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When traveling, whether it be on a plane, in a VRBO or hotel I always like to bring snacks & breakfast food. This prevents anyone from getting hangry & keeps me from reaching for foods I wouldn't normally eat (french fries, ice cream, chips). Typically I like items that can be packed easily or bought (from a grocery store) once I arrive. Lunch & dinner are left open to exploring new places.

Snacks - Click here for my favorite on-the-go mixes
Other easy & healthy snacks:
- beef jerky with no added sugar
- nuts/nut mixes
- hummus & carrots
- a medjool date with cashews or almonds inside
- salami & cheese roll-ups
- coconut wrap with peanut butter
- cucumbers with any dip

Better for you sweets:
-Unreal: peanut gems, peanut butter cups, coconut bars
​-Smart Sweets: swedish fish, gummy bears, peach rings, gummy worms
-Smashmallow: gummies
-Hu Kitchen: so many chocolate options
-Lily's: peanut butter cups

Ideas for breakfast

I always bring instant coffee. Two reasons: I'm boujee & have some standards for the coffee I drink. :)  Most rentals or hotels have the worst coffee, so I can't rely on it! When 7am hits I don't want to wander out for coffee. Second, you never know when there won't be another option. The instant coffee has saved me many times! I really like FourSigmatic & Starbucks Via.
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Road trip (pack in a cooler) or buy once you arrive:
- hard boiled eggs: make ahead of time
- fresh fruit: pre-washed / cut
- yogurt cup + granola
- cheese, fruit & nut packs: buy or make yourself
- bread + avocado + hemp seeds & pumpkin seeds: protein packed! {RECIPE HERE}
- protein balls/energy bites: Click for My Chocolate Pecan Protein Bites (pictured) a family favorite 

Airport or situation where a cooler isn't convenient:
- apples, grapes or sliced cucumbers: these travel well & are hydrating
- protein bars: Perfect Bar, Go Macro Bar
- instant oatmeal + nut butter pack (I buy single serve nut butter): all you need is a cup of hot water, pour in oatmeal & nut butter, stir. Wait a few minutes before eating for it to thicken.
- protein powder: pack dry (portioned) & mix with a coffee or milk that you find along the way
- breakfast charcuterie: it's a thing...
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*If you can pack ice or keep something cool for the airport make a breakfast burrito or egg bowl at home & enjoy during travel.

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4. Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate!

Staying hydrated (& fed) are my top concerns when it comes to our wellbeing on vacation. I'm very easy to get along with if these two requirements are met!! If possible I bring a reusable water bottle to use on trips. I will fill it up throughout the trip & carry it everywhere. We purchase large jugs of water once we reach our destination for easy refills. Obviously, there are some instances that a reusable bottle is just not the move....for me the beach is a no-go. Sand everywhere no thank you. 
See my favorite reusable bottles for adults & kids linked below!

Other hydrating drinks:
Sparkling water: any & all yes please
Coconut water
"Spa water": aka water with fruit, yum

I also like to bring Nectar hydration packs for a little something different. These electrolyte packs travel so easy! I like these specifically because they have no added sugar, only slightly sweetened with stevia. The sunset orange reminds me of drinking orange Gatorade as a kid. They make the perfect afternoon fruity drink that hydrates & provides essential minerals! Linked HERE.
- ADULT HYDRATION -
- KID HYDRATION -

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5. Research healthy restuarants & grocery stores prior to traveling.

Take time to look at your destination on Google Maps before you head out. See what restaurants or food stores are nearby or available at the hotel. READ THE REVIEWS! Check out their Instagram or website. You can learn a lot about restaurants with some quick sleuthing.

My husband and I are gluten free so this is essential when traveling! We have to know what places can accommodate our diet. This goes for choosing healthier dining options as well. I highly recommend looking the menu online before you visit a restaurant. Look through it & pick out what you want to order ahead of time. Not when you're hangry & sitting down.  This always helps me make better choices when it comes to food because I have more time to think it over. "Are you ready to order yet?" - The worst feeling when you can't decide!!

thanks for stopping in. Catch up with me on Instagram or leave a comment below with your tips!

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street corn dip - taco night or gathering approved!

10/18/2021

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Move aside buffalo dip...

My go-to shareable appetizer is almost always some sort of dip. I mean who doesn't enjoy a plethora of dip options at a gathering?! For years I have always brought THIS (lightened up) buffalo dip to any social gathering. As amazing as it is, I feel like there's a new dip in town.
One worth a spot at your next taco night, football party, or potluck. When experimenting with one of Trader Joe's new seasoning blends (Everything but the Elote Seasoning) I came up with this Street Corn Dip. *Info below about where to find/how to make this seasoning.

The perfect balance of creamy & stringy cheese....
Tangy lime flavor yet rich...
​Added flavor & texture from fresh spinach & garlic...
Ideal for dipping chips, veggie sticks, or taquitos (!!)...

You can make this delish dip in under 15 minutes to quickly satisfy that snack tooth...that's a thing right? :)

Scroll down for recipe! Be sure to tag me on Instagram (@jenkinshouseonthehill) or send me a message if you try this dip. I love seeing you all recreate my recipes! <3

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Click to download recipe - Street Corn Dip

Elote Seasoning:

- Info on Everything but the Elote Seasoning that I use from Trader Joes HERE.

- Check your local grocery store spice aisle! They may have a similar version.

- Homemade version HERE.
​
- Similar versions can be found on Amazon

Looking for more appetizers?

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Crostini with Tomato & Onion Jam
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Festive Snack Board
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Chewy Granola Bars

3/11/2021

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I was a little debbie kid.

Nutter Butters
Swiss Rolls
Oatmeal Cream Pies
Zebra Cakes
Star Crunch

All the nostalgic kid flavors!! Sadly, today I don't indulge in those anymore. Probably the massive amount of sugar & artificial ingredients. I do however, like to use those flavors to make my own versions. 

These Chewy Granola Bars remind me of the classic Star Crunch meets non-bake cookie meets protein ball. My version is super easy to mix up & enjoy out of the fridge all week. Without all of the sugar and empty calories! Oats & nut butter add protein & fiber, while the chocolate adds a sweet bite. Ideal for on-the-go snacking, lunch boxes or dessert.
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Drizzle with date syrup or honey if you're feeling extra!
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What the mixture looks like when you spread it out before placing in the fridge.

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Click to Download Recipe - Chewy Granola Bars

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Kid approved!!
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On-The-Go Snack mixes

2/24/2021

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This post contains an affiliate link. I receive a small percentage of any purchase made. All thoughts & opinions are my own. :)

I'm always on the hunt for snacks. . .

Snacking is my favorite pastime. Really it is! 

I'm always looking for new grocery store finds to add to my snacking routine. I have to say I'm quite good at this. ☺ Lately, I've been packing various snacks to bring to work. I grab a Stasher bag or mini ball jar & portion them out for the week. Below you will find a handful of the best combos that were definitely worth sharing.

​Whether you're into salty, sweet, crunchy, or tangy there's one for you!

Click HERE if you're interested in trying out Thrive Market today!
​(Monthly $5 membership or yearly option available) ​
A lot of our snacks & pantry goods come from places like Thrive Market. They have the best selection of high quality pantry & home items. . . no scary ingredients, clean foods that you can feel good about eating. I struggle to consistently find the brands that we prefer at local or chain grocery stores. I hate doing my shopping at a million places. Nobody has time for that!

We love to shop Thrive because it's easy (hello app!), ships fast & we believe in their core values. What you put in your body counts!!

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Other Posts you might like:

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Why I went Gluten Free
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Thanks for stopping by!
be sure to pin or save your favorite snack
idea for later. ​☺

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Share Worthy Cheese Boards

8/27/2020

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Who doesn't love a well-thought out cheese board?!

I am sharing all my tips & tricks to create a cheese board at home. Watch the video below for an in-depth look at creating the perfect shareable plate! Tips & items used in the video are listed below for reference.

​I can't wait to see your creations!!


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Items used in my cheese board:

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​+ Raspberries

+ Cucumber



Related Post: EASY SNACKS & APPS TO SHARE 


Don't forget to share your cheese board creations with me on Instagram.
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Easy Snacks & Apps to Share

6/30/2020

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What's better than my morning cup of coffee??

Making crave worthy food to share with the ones I love! Cheesy I know but these are the things that fill up my cup. Get it? :)
​
When a long weekend approaches that involves friends or family I am always planning what snacks to bring. If you are like me you need food every few hours to remain happy......no one likes to be hangry! Below is a roundup of some of my favorite snacks & heavy apps to bring to any small gathering. Most are travel worthy & can be brought on-the-go to any gathering. 

BYO Nachos

​Nachos are a great appetizer if you have access to an oven.

I like to layer mine with:
+ Tortilla chips
+ Grilled chicken
+ Black beans
+ Cherry tomatoes
+ Corn
+ Shredded Mexican blend cheese
& bake on 400 degrees for 5-10 minutes.

Top with fresh tomato salsa, avocado, & Jalapeno Ranch (Lighthouse dressing).
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Antipasto Skewers

These are so versatile! So many options to customize based on your needs.
- Swap green or black olives for kalamata
- Add peppers, artichokes, or marinated mushrooms
- Use turkey, ham, or pepperoni instead of salami
- Make them into caprese skewers with balsamic glaze
- Drizzle with pesto
​- Ditch the cheese for dairy free version or ditch the meat for vegetarian version
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Spiced Nuts
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Truffled Italian Walnuts &
Spicy Lime Cashews
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Learn how to make these delicious spiced nuts by watching the video above! Such an easy snack to share & bring on the go!


Charcuterie

Cheese boards are always a hit! They are so easy to put together & can be transported in containers to go anywhere. I always include a few specialty items (spiced nuts, different dried fruits, or jam. Along with various cheeses, raw veggies, gluten-free & regular crackers, Italian meats, & fresh fruit. You can even make a kid's version with rolled up turkey or ham, carrots, mild cheese like cheddar or havarti & their favorite fruit!
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Dip: sour cream & ranch dressing mix
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Corn & Tomato Bruschetta 

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Crispy Brussels with Truffle Mayo

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​Trim ends & cut brussel sprouts in half. In a container overnight add brussel sprouts & 1 TBSP avocado oil (or olive oil). This will make them soften a bit & help them get crispy!

Put onto a baking sheet & season with garlic salt. 425 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, the loose leaves will begin to "burn" but that is okay. Stir half way.


Truffle Mayo: 
- 3 TBSP mayo
- 1 teas. truffle oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- S & P

Pimento Cheese

To be honest I am lazy at times and buy this but it isn't too hard to make. Plus it has less preservatives if you make it at home! This stores well in the fridge for a few days.

Recipe from Designer Bags & Dirty Diapers- The best pimento cheese I have had!
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And some of my favorite snacks & sides from Pinterest & beyond...

Buffalo Chicken Dip from Real Girl's Kitchen- extra chicken & less "dip" makes it the BEST buffalo dip

Truffle Deviled Eggs from Real Girl's Kitchen- I could eat a dozen of these deviled eggs, perfect for a crowd but make extra!!

​Jalapeno Popper Dip- YUM

BLT Pasta Salad- such a crowd pleaser, also a great weeknight meal. I sub spinach for romaine.

Tuscan Tortellini Salad- easy to prep ahead of time!




Well I am thoroughly hungry now.......I guess I am off to make one of these delights instead of simply talking about them!
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Corn & Tomato Bruschetta

5/16/2020

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Who else is tired of cooking? SO TIRED OF COOKING!
This recipe is perfect for when you don't want to cook but you want something tasty. It comes together in about five minutes....what could be better? Let's face it a cheese plate and a good dip are considered a meal in the summer. This bruschetta is basically a form of dip in our house and can be transformed into a variety of other versions. I have included the original recipe and a tex-mex take on it.
​

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Corn & Tomato Bruschetta Recipe    (click to download the recipe)

To make the tex-mex version...

- Sub a can of black beans for arugula & juice of one lime for balsamic vinegar

Everything else remains the same! Serve with your favorite chips, on top of fish, or as a taco topping. 
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​I'm just a girl making the same recipes in ten different ways! Hope you enjoy!!


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Chocolate Pecan Protein Bites

6/25/2019

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I live for a quick and easy recipe that makes a delicious snack. This recipe does just that with only six ingredients! I have a major sweet tooth and like to have healthier options around the house when sweet cravings hit. You can make these protein bites in fifteen minutes and snack on them all week long. It also serves as a great snack for kids! These little bites are packed full of protein and flavor. 

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Click to download recipe - Chocolate pecan protein bites

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Enjoy!
Be sure to let me know what you think if
​you make these.....
leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram!
​@simpledelishhealthy

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    Hi I'm Kelsey.
    ​I help busy women embrace cooking at home with my fuss-free family recipes!

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  • Welcome.
  • blog.
  • E-Book.
  • Kelsey.
  • Collab.