Looking for a delicious start to your day? Look no further than my Bacon and Cheese Breakfast QuicheRecipe!
Are you ready to revolutionize your mornings with a breakfast that is as delicious as it is nutritious? Look no further! Introducing my new Bacon and Cheese Breakfast Quiche – a dish that checks all the boxes: low carb, high protein, bariatric-friendly, and most importantly, absolutely scrumptious. Whether you’re following a specific diet plan or just looking for a quick and easy breakfast option, this quiche is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
One of the best things about this quiche is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients like eggs, bacon, cheese, and some spices, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. The combination of crispy bacon and gooey cheese nestled in a fluffy egg base is sure to make your taste buds dance. Plus, the recipe is highly adaptable – feel free to toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for an extra burst of flavor and nutrients.
Will You Make Your Bacon + Cheese Quiche with a Crust or Go Crustless?
If you’re looking for a low-carb, buttery, flakey crust, check out this recipe here.
I made mine with a crust for my husband’s benefit, though I just ate around the crust, myself. You can’t go wrong either way! An even easier option would be to use your favorite store bought crust, just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight!
All the Bacon + Cheesy Flavor, No Guilt!
What truly sets this quiche apart is its health benefits. With its low-carb and high-protein profile, it’s perfect for those who are managing their weight or following a bariatric diet. Each bite is packed with the energy you need to kickstart your day while keeping you full and satisfied for hours. And the best part? It’s a hit with everyone, from kids to adults. So why not gather your family around the table and share this delightful dish? Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!
Need a few more breakfast ideas? Check out my recipe library here!
I must say- my Bacon and Cheese Breakfast Quiche is more than just a meal – it’s an experience! It’s a way to bring joy and nourishment to your mornings without compromising on taste or health. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch as it becomes a beloved part of your breakfast routine. Happy cooking!
1 package Uncured Applewood Smoked Bacon, chopped and cooked
1/2 cup Low Fat Mozzarella Cheese
1/2 cup Low Fat Mexican Cheese Blend
1/3 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese
1 cup Fairlife Skim Milk (you can sub any milk, but Fairlife adds protein!)
4 Eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp Pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Chop and cook bacon in skillet until it reaches desired crispiness.
Once cooked, place bacon into greased 9-inch pie pan. Set aside.
In large bowl. combine eggs, salt, pepper, and milk. Beat until all yolks are broken and all ingredients are well combined.
Add mozzarella, parmesan, and mexi-blend cheese to egg mixture and stir lightly.
Pour egg and cheese mixture over bacon. lightly mix the egg/cheese mixture with the bacon.
Place in preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center of your quiche. If it comes out clear, the dish is fully cooked!
Notes
For my Bariatric Besties:
I cut this quiche into a traditional 8-slice quiche and then cut half of the slices in half again! 1/2 slice + 1/8 cup of freshly sliced strawberries were a delectable and filling breakfast for me!
Introducing my new recipe for Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Protein Cookies. Are you on the lookout for a guilt-free, delicious treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while helping you maintain your macro goals? Look no further!
These cookies are not only scrumptious but also packed with wholesome ingredients to keep you energized throughout the day.
Ingredients:
2 cups All Purpose Gluten Free Flour (I like King Arthur and Cup4Cup brands)
1 cup Coconut Sugar (lower glycemic index than table sugar), or sub in your zero sugar sweetener of choice
1 tsp baking soda
1 stick butter
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tbsp Fairlife Skim Milk
2 ripe bananas
2 scoops of unflavored Isopure protein powder
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
Cream together the butter, protein powder, and coconut sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture is fluffy and well combined. This step is crucial for ensuring a light and airy texture in your cookies.
Add in the baking soda, salt, ripe bananas, Fairlife Skim Milk, gluten-free flour, and protein powder. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. The bananas should be mashed and fully blended into the batter, giving it a rich and moist consistency.
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. This will ensure that every bite of your cookie has a delightful chocolate surprise.
Drop 1 tbsp dollops of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them out to allow room for spreading.
Bake for 11 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies begin to turn golden brown. This baking time ensures a perfect balance between a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior.
These Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Protein Cookies are the perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition. They are ideal for a post-workout snack, a quick breakfast on-the-go, or even a tasty dessert. Not only are they gluten-free, but they also have the added benefit of protein powder, making them a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake without compromising on flavor. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful cookies!
For more delicious Gluten-Free treats, click here.
Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Banana Protein Cookies
Yield: 20 Servings (2 cookies per serving)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 11 minutes
Total Time: 21 minutes
Ingredients
2 cups All Purpose Gluten Free Flour (I like King Arthur and Cup4Cup brands)
1 cup Coconut Sugar (lower glycemic index than table sugar), or sub in your zero sugar sweetener of choice
1 tsp baking soda
1 stick butter
1/4tsp salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tbsp Fairlife Skim Milk
2 ripe bananas
2 scoops of unflavored Isopure protein powder
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Cream together butter, protein powder, and sugar until fluffy and well mixed.
Add in baking soda, salt, bananas, milk, flour, and protein powder.
Fold in chocolate chips last, then drop 1 tbsp dollops of batter onto parchment lined baking sheet.
Bake 11 minutes (or until edges begin to turn brown).
Heyyyy besties! On May 22nd, I hit a monumental milestone – I’m officially one month post-op from gastric sleeve surgery (and bursting with excitement to share my journey with you!) Buckle up because it’s been a wild ride filled with laughter, tears, and some seriously joy-filled moments.
Some Back Story
Back in 2017 I hit my heaviest. My mental health was suffering, my marriage was in a rough spot, and overall, I was struggling to keep my head above water. I didn’t realize at the time how big I was… But I knew I wasn’t happy. I knew my clothes were fitting tighter and tighter until they didn’t fit anymore. I knew that when I saw myself in photos, I didn’t recognize myself anymore. I knew that doing basic everyday things was getting increasingly more difficult. I knew something needed to change, but I felt like I was so far gone that nothing could save me. To read more about my “why”, read this post here.
2017
I tried a few different diets and supplement regimens that proved successful. I dropped about fifty pounds and was feeling so much better, but I stalled out after that and then began to yo-yo again, ultimately regaining 30 of the 50 I had lost.
2021
Big Post-Op Milestone Wins
This first big win is something to celebrate! As of this morning, I am down a whopping 117 lbs! That’s right, 117 lbs have vanished into thin air, and I’m feeling great!
Shameless Bathroom Selfie to share the win!
Since starting the surgical process in March 2024, I’ve shed 58 lbs, and let me tell you, it feels like I’ve been given a new lease on life. I can’t even begin to describe the joy and relief of watching those numbers drop and feeling my energy soar. I put together a tote several years ago filled with clothing I loved but couldn’t fit into anymore. I got to get all of those clothing items out of the box and place them into my closet/drawers to be used again! I also got to downsize my closet recently as I have so many clothes that are now too big! What a great non-scale victory!
Some other NSV’s:
I am wearing clothes again that I wore in college!
I don’t have to move my driver’s seat or adjust the steering wheel anymore after my husband has driven. I can just slip right in!
The seatbelt in our van isn’t maxed out and cutting into me anymore. There is room to spare.
I can walk further distances more easily.
I have so much more energy.
I feel so much better already!
I can buy clothing in stores I couldn’t previously.
I fit more easily and comfortably on the rides at Disney World!
Speaking of Disney World, back in Oct/November 2023, we went to Disney World to celebrate my sister’s Enchanted Engagement! We went the last week of October that overlapped with the first week of November, so we got to experience all of the lovely Fall decor, and then we also got to see the incredible Gingerbread House at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The pics below are taken wearing the same outfit. The first was taken on that trip in 2023, the second was taken just last week.
1 Month Post-Op | What I Didn’t Know that I Didn’t Know
If you are on your own surgical journey, let me share with you a little thing called the dreaded “Week Three Stall”. For me, it was the “Week Three GAIN”. *GASP*
I had been feeling so great, people had been telling me they could see a difference, I was hitting my nutritional goals, so I was certain I was killing it. When I looked down at the scale and saw a 6-pound gain, felt so defeated. I felt like a total failure and thought “Oh no! Have I already blown it?!” But I was determined to not let my mindset defeat me. I started doing some research and even talking to other bariatric patients who were further along in their post-op journeys, and I found out that this is actually a super common experience among bari-patients.
Apparently, when you advance to any new stage of the post-op process, you can experience stalls/gains. There is a video on YouTube by Dr. Christopher McGowan called “The Early Weight Loss Stall Explained” and it puts everything into perspective. He talks about how in this post-op stage, you’re losing fat instead of water weight, so it goes slower, but it makes sense as to why. Check out that video- he can explain it far better than I can!
One bari-influencer I follow on TikTok (@kalynvsgjourney) gave me some good advice- she said “these stalls can last a bit longer than you would expect. Put the scale away so you don’t get distracted. Focus on meeting your goals and then track your measurements! You will see loss continue and stay encouraged. Let me just say, she was definitely right.
Post-Op Transition from Liquids to Solids (or Purées, really).
Now, let’s get to the fun part – my first real food experience post-surgery. Picture this: I’m fourteen days post-op. I have been on liquids only for the last 6 weeks. Now, I find myself at the happiest place on Earth, my home away from home, Walt Disney World. I am surrounded by magic, laughter, and a little bit of pixie dust. So what do I choose as my food? None other than the iconic Pineapple Dole Whip! 🍍 Yes, ladies and gentlemen, my first bite of solid food after surgery was a swirl of pineapple perfection. I felt like I was living a fairy tale, savoring each spoonful as if it were a kiss from Prince Charming himself. Who knew that something so simple could taste like a slice of heaven?
PS, peep this transformation. Jake and me at WDW in 2018 vs. 2024!
“If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It”- Walt Disney
As I continue this journey (that is just getting started), I’m reminded that every step, no matter how small, is worth celebrating. So here’s to more laughter, more milestones, and more magical moments ahead. If you’re considering a similar path, know that it’s not just about the weight loss; it’s about reclaiming your life, one Dole Whip at a time. Cheers to new beginnings and the delicious adventures that come with them! 🌟
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, finding moments of tranquility and spiritual nourishment can be a challenge. Yet, amidst the chaos, there lies a timeless practice that offers solace and deepens our connection with God – studying The Word. The SOAP method of Bible study is a great and practical tool for diving deep into the wisdom of the Word.
Scripture: The journey begins with scripture – the living, breathing word of God. As Christians, we believe that every word penned in the Bible is divinely inspired. So, as we embark on our study, we choose a passage that speaks to us, one that resonates with our current circumstances or simply tugs at our hearts.
Observation: With our chosen scripture in hand, we embark on the path of observation. This step invites us to delve deeper into the text, to ponder its meaning, and to uncover the truths it holds. We ask questions, we analyze, and we seek to understand the context in which the words were written. Through observation, we glean insights that might otherwise remain hidden, allowing the scripture to come alive in our hearts and minds.
Application: The true power of scripture lies not merely in its comprehension but in its application. As we reflect on the passage before us, we are prompted to consider how its message applies to our lives today. What lessons can we learn? What changes must we make? The SOAP method challenges us to move beyond mere intellectual understanding and to allow the word of God to transform us from within.
Prayer: Finally, we come to prayer – the cornerstone of our relationship with God. In this concluding step, we offer up our thoughts, our reflections, and our desires to the One who hears our every word. We thank Him for the insights gained, we seek His guidance in applying them to our lives, and we ask for the strength to walk in obedience to His will.
In essence, the SOAP method is more than just a study tool – it’s a spiritual discipline, a pathway to deeper intimacy with our Creator. Through scripture, observation, application, and prayer, we embark on a journey of washing in the word, allowing its cleansing waters to purify our hearts and minds.
So, beloved brothers and sisters, as you navigate the ups and downs of life, remember the power of the SOAP method. Take time each day to immerse yourself in the scriptures, to reflect on their meaning, to apply their truths, and to commune with the One who authored them. In doing so, may you find renewal, strength, and unwavering faith in the God who loves you beyond measure.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Psalm 119:105
Okay, y’all- no gatekeeping here! As a former Cast Member, people are always asking me Disney questions. So today, I am here to spill allllll the Disney-tea about experiencing the magic of Disney- without breaking your budget!
Embarking on a journey to the happiest place on Earth doesn’t necessarily mean you have to empty your life savings. In fact, with a sprinkle of pixie dust, a dash of clever planning, and a healthy dose of humor, you can experience the magic of Disney World without your wallet taking a trip to Neverland! So, buckle up your seatbelts & fasten your mouse ears. It’s time to dive into the ultimate guide on experiencing Disney World on a budget, laughter included.
Disney on a Budget | Tip #1: Lets Talk Tickets
Firstly, let’s talk tickets. Buying tickets to Disney World can feel like you’re funding a small moon landing. However, there are ways to shave off some of the costs. For starters, be on the lookout for special offers directly from Disney. They occasionally offer discounted tickets for longer stays, or for specific groups like military families. Another pro tip is to avoid peak times like holidays and summer vacation, when prices skyrocket faster than Space Mountain. Instead, opt for the less crowded, and less expensive, off-peak times. You’ll save money and won’t have to elbow your way through a sea of people just to catch a glimpse of Cinderella’s Castle.
Pro Tip: Plan your trip in the post-Christmas/pre-Spring Break window (the second week of January through the end of February!)The weather is IDEAL, the crowds are smaller than normal (since everyone is coming off of that Christmas hype and/or prepping for Spring Break), and the prices are some of the lowest of the season.
PS: Just a word of warning: Beware of a crowd surge around Super Bowl Sunday… Football die-hards love to visit the Magic Kingdom on the Monday after the Super Bowl knowing they may just catch a glimpse of their favorite QB!
Disney on a Budget | Tip #2: Lodging & Accomodations
Now, onto accommodations. Staying at a Disney hotel can be as expensive as buying a small castle in Arendelle. Fear not, for there are a plethora of budget-friendly hotels and resorts nearby that won’t require you to sell a kidney. Many of these offer free shuttles to the parks, which means you can save on parking fees (because, yes, Mickey Mouse also charges you to park your carriage). By staying off-site, you get to explore more of the Orlando/Lake Buena Vista/Kissimmee area, including dining options that are significantly cheaper than those in the parks. Just imagine enjoying a hearty meal without the fear of Goofy judging your spending habits. “Gawrsh!”
Some of our favorite off-property resorts include:
Let’s talk food. Inside the park, a single bottle of water is going to run you close to $5. But fear not, there is a totally free way for you to smuggle in your own liquid life-sustainer. In fact, you don’t even have to smuggle it! Disney is completely cool with guests bringing in their own food and drinks into the parks. Yes, you heard that right. Packing your own snacks and water bottles can save you a pirate’s ransom over the course of your visit.
We always bring refillable water bottles. All Quick-Service Food & Beverage locations that offer fountain beverages have free cups of ice water! Note: carts and locations with bottle beverages do not offer free water. We use these complimentary, filtered waters to refill our bottles and it saves us soooo much money.Just note that glass containers of any kind are prohibited. I have heard that baby food in glass jars is an exception to this rule, but I would confirm with Guest Services before your trip to be sure!
Pro-Tip:If you are traveling with a friend, consider snack-sharing! One of the best parts of Walt Disney World is all of the fun and delicious food. Save your Disney budget (and your daily calories) by sharing with your pals. We find it easiest to just alternate who buys and we share each item. It is great!
Disney on a Budget | Tip #4: Magical Extras to Consider
Celebration Buttons
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, don’t be shy about mentioning it! You might just find yourself with a magical moment, like a complimentary cupcake, making for a sweet mouse-shaped treat without the bitter aftertaste of buyer’s remorse. You can get one of these celebration buttons completely free at Guest Services (or most merchandise locations). If there is a little wiggle room in your Disney budget, I suggest having some personalized buttons made before your trip! They certainly add to the excitement as you countdown the days until departure, and make for great accessories to your magical celebration.
If you want to get some made for your crew, Alex, over at ClubhouseCreates is the best of the best at creating these buttons! She has made several for me and every time they are absolutely perfect. My little sister got engaged at Walt Disney World back in October, so I had Alex and her crew make some celebration buttons for that trip. Here is a picture!
That whole trip was so magical and fun. Read all about it here.
Resort Hopping
This is one of my favorite ways to spend a Disney day! Did you know that you can visit the various Disney resorts? It’s true, even if you’re not staying on property or at that resort! In some cases, you may have to make a dining reservation to be able to get in. Just check in with guest services before your trip. Touring the resorts is such a fun way to explore even more of the intricacies of Disney’s magic!
Pro-Tip: Try parking at Disney Springs and utilizing Disney’s complimentary buses to get around! OR, you could also consider Disney’s other complimentary modes of transportation:
Disney’s Water Taxis will transport you to: (Note, there are several different launch points)
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Boardwalk Villas
Disney’s Beach Club Villas
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- Riverside
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- French Quarter
Gingerbread Resort Tour
Want to know one of the BEST times to resort-hop? Christmas time! The holiday season begins November 1st at WDW. This is when the Deluxe resorts are finalizing the installments of their annual gingerbread creations! Each year, the deluxe resorts create their own gingerbread creations out of REAL gingerbread. They smell absolutely heavenly and majorly “up” that whole “Christmas Magic” factor. My favorite gingerbread creation is at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
This life-size gingerbread house is actually used as a retail location during the holiday season! Yes- you can actually go INSIDE of this one. They even sell gingerbread shingles! Just like the ones used to create the roof! In addition, you can purchase gingerbread mix, gingerbread mickeys, and more inside of this location! While we were there at the end of October/beginning of November, they were just starting assemble the gingerbread house! We go to taste-test some of the gingerbread and it was to die for!
Honestly, these gingerbread creations are so incredible. I could do an entire Disney trip just touring the gingerbread houses. Yep- I am saying I could go without going to a single theme park! That’s a big statement.
Disney on a Budget | Conclusion
In conclusion, experiencing Disney World on a budget is entirely possible. With some strategic planning and determination, Disney on a budget is as easy as “bibbidi, bobbidi, boo”! Remember, the true magic of Disney World doesn’t come from how much you spend, but from the memories you create. So, pack your bags, your snacks, and your sense of humor. It’s time to prepare for an adventure that’s as kind to your wallet as it is magical.
Hey friend! Molly here. Just think of me as a Tennessee troubadour with a heart as big as Dolly’s hair. Serenading souls, one note at a time. Crafting, gardening, baking, and spreading the good word about Jesus in between. Proud wife, dog mom, foster mom to several, and forever momma to baby Easton in Heaven. Lover of laughter, healthy boundaries, and songs that make you feel something. Read more about my story here.
