Some weeks feel like a slow build. Others feel like a blender full of espresso, deer sightings, protein-tracking, holiday prep, broken toes, and a little dancing just to keep things interesting. This was one of those weeks.
We started the week chasing a trend we found on Instagram, something called a protein espresso from Starbucks. Now let me say this up front: I’m not a big Starbucks guy. I don’t drink much coffee, and when I do, I’m more of a functional-drink kind of person; something with a purpose, like caffeine for energy or protein for recovery. So this “protein coffee” caught my attention.
Holly and I tracked it down, but let me tell you it wasn’t simple. The ad didn’t list the drink size, the correct foam type, or even the accurate price. We walked in, tried to describe it, and got a couple of blank stares from the baristas. But we finally got something close to what we saw on Instagram.
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It was actually pretty good! Later, we found out that to get the full “protein” effect, you’re supposed to add a certain type of cold foam or cream on top. We didn’t know that at the time, but that’s a fix for round two. For anyone tired of basic protein shakes, this might be a solid alternative. Just be ready to do some detective work when ordering.
Also, courtesy of social media, I went down another rabbit hole this week: holiday storage organization. You know the kind: perfectly labeled bins, mounted racks on casters, everything rolling neatly out of a garage like it’s a Home Depot commercial.
And look, I’m not saying I’m going full Martha Stewart, but we’ve got a lot of holiday decorations. Halloween is probably our biggest, but we’ve also got a mountain of stuff for Christmas, some for Easter, a sprinkle for the Fourth of July, and even a small autumn collection for those pumpkin-spice vibes. We swap everything out seasonally. And right now? It’s chaos in the attic.
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I’ve looked at the Costco racks and tubs, and I’m seriously considering building something custom; maybe modular, maybe with wheels. If anyone reading this has done something like that (or has strong opinions about storage systems), send them my way. I’m all ears.
Another surprise highlight this week? Backyard deer.
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They’ve been gone for a bit, likely due to bow hunting in our area, but they made a strong comeback this week. We had multiple deer hanging out just feet from the back door. One even had a bit of a standoff with Luna, our dog. They locked eyes through the glass. I couldn’t tell if it was a dominance thing or just a “what are you?” kind of moment. Either way, I pulled Luna inside. She’s curious but not exactly ready to negotiate with wildlife.
We also saw deer out at my parents’ house, which was especially cool. They used to have tons of them, but they’d all disappeared over the years. Seeing even one or two trickling back is a great sign.
On the fitness side of things, my trainer made a change to my diet plan. Instead of eating a flat macro split every day, I’m now cycling: two low-carb days followed by a high-carb day. The science is solid, but the shift has been harder than I thought. I’ve spent so long avoiding carbs that it now feels weird to intentionally eat them, and to do it strategically, earlier in the day, not all at night.
Especially on the road, it’s been a challenge. Trying to get the right carbs at the right time without just defaulting to junk takes some real planning. If anyone’s done carb cycling before, I’d love to hear your hacks for managing it while traveling.
Now let’s talk UFC. The last card? A little underwhelming. Even my son said, “This just doesn’t feel like a real card.” I agree. I think they’re holding back the good stuff for next year when they make the big move from ESPN to Paramount+.
Personally, I’m hopeful about that shift. Paramount+ is cheaper than paying for monthly pay-per-view fights, and if they do it right, it could bring in a wider audience and grow the sport. Plus, for people like me who are all in on the UFC but also trying to budget like a sane person, it’s a win.
The next card looks more promising. I’ve got my eye on the November 15th fights. Could be a good one.
One of the more personal parts of our week was line dancing. Holly and I have been taking a class together. It’s fun, it’s out of our comfort zone, and it’s great quality time. But, of course, life threw a curveball.
I broke my toe a couple of weeks ago. Not a dramatic story, just one of those things that happens when you’re moving fast and not paying attention. So line dancing has been more of a “hop and pivot” situation lately. Still, we’re showing up, and I’m doing what I can. I’m hoping by next week I’ll be closer to full speed again.
Lastly, we’re officially shifting from Halloween mode to Thanksgiving prep. Halloween is one of our favorite holidays; we love decorating, hosting, and building our signature box maze, but now the pumpkins are coming down, and the turkey decor is going up.
This time of year always feels like the beginning of something special. We’re grateful, we’re festive, and we’re trying to stay mindful in the middle of all the chaos.
So, how was your week?
Tried any protein espresso hacks? Organizing your attic for the holidays? Watching the deer from your window or learning to two-step with a limp? Let me know. I always love hearing what you’re into, what you’re cooking up, and what new ideas you’re chasing down from Instagram.
Until next time! Stay caffeinated, stay organized, and watch your toes on the dance floor.
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