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Nine Favorite Things | halfbakedharvest.com

It’s been such a good week of cooking in the kitchen — well, let me clarify. While it’s been busy and productive, that doesn’t mean it was all sunny skies and perfection. Life is life, you know? And no matter who you are, we all have our struggles in the day-to-day. What really matters is how we choose to handle them. We can complain and feel stuck (which I absolutely did for a day!), or we can shift our mindset, look for the positive, and keep moving forward. Or, as I love to say — “just keep swimming, swimming, swimming.” You’re never too old for a Finding Nemo life lesson!

This space is meant to make you smile, bring joy, positivity, and only the best vibes – so let’s keep it that way.

Yes, this week brought some hurdles, but I kept swimming. And it turned out to be such an exciting one — a milestone, really, though I only realized it looking back.

We officially signed contracts — I’s dotted, T’s crossed — on a brand-new venture that you’ll start to see take shape over the next year. It’s our very first step into the product space, and I couldn’t be more excited. I’m giddy just thinking about it! I can’t wait to share more soon — it’s going to be amazing.

And while that’s a big deal, we’re also diving into a bunch of new mini-projects — and honestly, some of you might find these even more exciting!

We’ve launched a new community page to bring you even closer into our world. Only community leaders are able to access it now, but we’ll be opening it up for everyone very soon! Plus, we’re planning more in-person events for the summer months (details coming next week!). We’ve also got two fun photo shoots planned on the calendar. One to kick off summer, and another for the 4th of July! Plus, a lot of travel ahead — it’s a full season, in the best way.

Something I’ve come to realize about myself over time is how much I find inspiration in beauty — even the tiniest moments of it. A streak of golden hour light? It stops me in my tracks. A fading flower with its soft, muted tones can spark a whole new idea. A beautifully designed candle not only brings me joy, but its scent might inspire an entirely new cookie recipe! It’s always the little, beautiful things that light me up. It’s something I shared with my Nonnie — she really taught me how to find happiness in the details, and I carry that with me every day.

So all in all, it’s been a pretty big week. Lots of good things on the horizon for summer and even looking ahead to fall! It feels exciting to be dreaming and planning again.

I think that’s all for today. I hope you enjoy this week’s Nine Favorite Things — we’ve got lots of great links, fashion finds, and some really fun home decor pieces we’re loving right now.

1. Things i’m Loving, Wanting, and Excited to Try.

loving…The New Chanel Girl Is a Glamorous Woman Who Vacations in Lake Como. Major summer vibes.

wanting…the Beast Mini Blender. Sometimes I just really do not want to break out the huge Vitamix.

shopping… Amazon’s Summer Beauty Event, happening now through May 11th.

everything in my cart (low)…Zara really has some of the best spring styles right now. For chilly nights, their Pleated Jacket is so cute. It pairs nicely with this Canvas Bucket Shoulder Bag, and actually, I love these Flat Sandals with the look.

This is the perfect summer skort. I love how they styled it with a simple white tank. And if you love a white linen dress for summer, try their Linen Strappy Midi Dress. Oh, this Branded Mini Bucket Bag is the cutest.

listening to…Why Is the Best Thing for Us the Nastiest Thing to Do?!

dreaming of going to…The Best Hotels in Provence, From Charming Inns to Majestic Hilltop Estates. Time to plan a European summer trip!

practicing…the 17 Second Manifestation Method. I’ve always struggled with manifesting, but this sounds easy enough!

shopping…the new Hunting Season home collection. It’s really pricy, but this leather tray is very unique and pretty!

traveling…San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. My family loves San Miguel! It is often ranked as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There’s so much to see and do; this travel guide is perfect.

also traveling…The Best Hotels in Miami, From South Beach to Brickell. We usually stay at The 1 Hotel in South Beach!

everything in my cart (beauty)…currently loving the The 7 Virtues Vanilla Woods Eau de Parfum. A clean fragrance with notes of pear, rose, vanilla, amber, and caramel. It’s subtle, and I get so many compliments on it! I’m finally learning to become a perfume girl.

I am still obsessed with Dr. Diamond’s Metacine Instafacial Infusion Biomimetic Microcollagen Serum and adding the Retinopro Growth Factor Night Cream to my nighttime routine. I use these sparingly as they are expensive.

Going to try Cream Moisturizer with Ceramides & Niacinamide.

Nine Favorite Things | halfbakedharvest.com

For summer hair, I love the ease of a sea salt spray. The Sachajuan Ocean Mist Sea Salt spray after the shower, then I braid my damp hair for perfect waves the next day.

Oh! And lastly, I have been loving having my nails painted, but hate using the chemical-laden polishes and UV light with a Gel polish. Super curious to test the new Chillhouse Forever Wear – Chill Paint. The new line is meant to last 14 days with a gel-like performance, but no UV lamp is required. Love all the shades they offer too!


ordering…a red light lamp! I already love my red light mask, so naturally, the lamp is my next step. Surprised I am just getting this now.

Miami eats…trying Chateau ZZ’s (for Mexican), Carbone (best Italian), Dirty French Steakhouse (definitely for meat eaters), and Asher wants to go to Miami  ZZ’s Club (Japanese). Where do you eat in Miami? We love Casadonna t00,ts so fun and cute!

reading…Every Major Wedding Trend Set to Define Bridal Style in 2026. I am not someone who dreams of her wedding or would ever want an overly frilly dress, BUT I think this Danielle Frankel Pippa Gown is gorgeous. I’d wear it. What is your dream wedding dress? Would you spend a lot or keep it affordable? I want to wear my Nonnie’s dress. My aunt wore it, and I’ve always loved a simple lace dress. It’s so pretty.


Also, my mom wore my Aunt’s dress! Found the photo below!

Nine Favorite Things | halfbakedharvest.com

everything in my cart (high)…The Sablier mini dress from Jacquemus, for a fun Miami trip!

listening…Paige DeSorbo and Hannah Berner. If you need something fun and easy to listen to, listen to this!

Something to do…How to Grow a Garden.

2. The Most Popular Recipes of April.

Most popular: Sheet Pan Sesame Feta Chicken and Sweet Potatoes

Blueberry Muffin Bread | halfbakedharvest.com

Runner-up: Blueberry Muffin Bread (Asher and my mom loved this bread!)

One Skillet Greek Meatballs and Lemon Rice | halfbakedharvest.com

Also have to mention: One Skillet Greek Meatballs and Lemon Rice

Sheet Pan Spinach Artichoke Dip Pizza | halfbakedharvest.com

Mom’s personal favorite: Sheet Pan Spinach Artichoke Dip Pizza

Easy Lemon Fritter Cake | halfbakedharvest.com

Ok, last one: Easy Lemon Fritter Cake

3. Mother’s Day, even more cute gifts.


4. Working out with…

FORM! I have become obsessed with the FORM platform and love the quick hit strength workouts. And their activewear sets are some of the cutest. Comfy too! I love their newest collection and the Pointelle Pants and matching Pointelle Cardigan are 2 of my personal favorites. Also, the layered bra is great!

more of my favorite activewear pieces for spring and summer



5. Spring candles – the ones I’ve ordered.

I ordered so many new Boy Smells candles. They just got here and I’m excited to try them. I went on a bit of a candle binge the other night.

It all started with VIOLET ENDS, with notes of rhubarb, black pepper, and violet (feels a little witchy, like making potions). It sounded interesting and then I went down a rabbit hole and also ordered, MINTY (smells like ginger, wild mint, and cedarwood), WOODPHORIA (a warm wood candle that can do it all), LAVENDARE (a fresh scent for soft-launching inner peace), PASSION PIT, (a fruity scent for mood boosting, playlist-making, and feeling cute), RED HOT (a fruity, spicy scent that burns slow ;), and SO VANILLA (a gourmand scent for your “just one more episode” era).

The ones I want to try: the Taja Collection, and Hudson Grace candles.

What are your Favorite Everyday Things?

6. Inspring Me.

(don’t fear change, embrace it)

(garden dreaming)

(summer dinners)

7. Favorite Links I’m Loving.

Your May Bucket List: 31 Ideas to Inspire a New Routine

Around the World With Chanel: A Travel Diary of the Brand’s Pre-Collection Shows From 2007 to Today

This $12 Home Upgrade Completely Transformed My Morning Routine

8. Styles for summer and vacation.



9. This Week’s Dinners + Weekend Eats.

Monday: Skillet Mexican Beef and Rice

Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad | halfbakedharvest.com

Tuesday: Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Chipotle Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce | halfbakedharvest.com

Wednesday: Chipotle Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce

Pesto Chicken and Avocado Bacon Salad Wraps | halfbakedharvest.com

Thursday: Pesto Chicken and Avocado Bacon Salad Wraps

Caprese Caesar Pasta Salad | halfbakedharvest.com

Friday: Caprese Caesar Pasta Salad

Saturday: Blackberry Champagne Mule

Blueberry Ricotta Pudding Cake | halfbakedharvest.com

Sunday: Blueberry Ricotta Pudding Cake

This post was originally published on May 4, 2025

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Comments

  1. Would you ever consider putting together little travel guides for when you go on vacation? Like your recent FL trip – include things like your favorite restaurants, cool spots you visited, etc. I would be so interested!! Love reading what you put together!!

  2. Hi Tieghan, when you edit your content after it has gone live, can you please note what has been changed? I see you edited out the piece about the product that was causing your big rash, and I think it’s disingenuous to remove it. You say you will tell us if products work or not, do you really just mean you’ll selectively only talk about highlights in order to get us to buy more? I think you need to reevaluate your approach here. What else are you hiding?

    1. Hey! I removed a product I am currently trying because of the price point. I did by mistake remove the part about my rash which was being caused from an eye serum I had been using. Apologies! I didn’t intend to remove this and will add it back!

      So sorry for any confusion!!! Reading over the post again now!

  3. Hi T!
    Following up on someone’s comment from last week’s NFT asking if you post items for commissions and you replied that you love/use all the products you post! I’m so glad to hear this as I would love to hear more about the Eterne string bikini you posted recently! I am thinking of purchasing and wanted to know more about the fit, style, etc.! Where did you wear it and how was the fit?! Is it true to size? Thanks for all that you do compiling these lists weekly, there is nobody else out there putting so much thought into their work like you! <3

    1. Hey Sara!!! Oh I LOVE this suite! It’s beyond perfect. Flattering and fits really so well! And it’s the softest suit I own too!

      The fit is true to size! I would order what you typically wear.

      And they have so many great color options too. I want the green and may get it for an upcoming trip!

      Let me know if you end up ordering it and what you think!

  4. I have been enjoying lots of spring desert recipes lately. I made your blueberry loaf for Easter breakfast and can’t decide which of those yummy treats you posted today I will make for Mother’s Day!! Any gift ideas for your mom?
    Loved the family photos you shared this week. Asher looks just like your mom in the wedding photo. How was San Miguel? Any favourite restaurants to share?

  5. Hi Tieghan, again this week there are commissionable links to dozens of items you don’t own or haven’t tried. Can you please start vetting these products before trying to make commissions off of them?

    1. Hey Willa! All products shared I either love and use daily, used for events, or am currently ordering/testing/trying out! I wouldn’t talk about a product I don’t love and only share what I do love!

      Hope you are having a wonderful week!

  6. Where did you end up deciding to go for when you said you had to be out of your home? In your NFT 2 weeks ago you said:

    “ I need to be out of my house starting May 1st as we wrap up the studio space renovations, and then it’s on to renovating my home next!

    As for where I’ll be going? That’s still a bit of a mystery. I’ve got a few options, but since so much of my work revolves around cooking, wherever I land has to have a decent kitchen. Stay tuned—your guess is as good as mine right now!”

    Are you going to show us a sneak peek of where you’ve been staying? Hope the kitchen is working nicely for you, wherever you are! 🙂

    1. Hey Elle!! The move date got pushed back to June! I am looking in Miami and will definitely be updating everyone soon! And yes, I will be sure to share the kitchen! More to come! Hope you are having a great week!

  7. I’ve bought a few of your recommended skin care products, can you share which one was making your skin irritated? I haven’t gotten a chance to try everything yet but I have super sensitive skin and don’t want to use anything that’s going to cause a flare up!

    1. Hi Bethany,
      It was my eye serum BUT everyone’s skin is so different and reacts differently to products. I still love this brand of serum, my skin just does not react well with it anymore:( but that does not mean your skin will be the same! I’d still test product before you make any decisions!

  8. I can’t believe you mentioned San Miguel–we’re going on Saturday! Can’t wait to explore the city.

  9. So much happening for you – very exciting! I saw the photo of your dad and Oslo and thought ‘that looks like San Miguel’ and sure enough. We were there for the first time in January and it was an amazing place to visit.
    Hope you have another great week!

    1. Thanks so much for reading today, Jeena! That’s amazing you were able to visit San Miguel this past January! Hope you are enjoying your weekend! xT

  10. I love your recipes. They are like art but cover so many senses. The gifts and talents you have are amazing. Thank you so much for opening up a totally new beautiful experience for me. I look forward to what you share. You make me want to try something new. To explore and grow myself. Have a beautiful day!!!!

    1. Aww, thank you so much for your kind message, Robin! I appreciate you following along, I am so glad you enjoy so many of the recipes! Have a wonderful Sunday! xx

  11. How is the renovation going? Will we see some pics soon of the completed space? I know you said you have to be out completely in the beginning of May – were you able to find somewhere fun to go?

    1. Hi Alice,
      Thanks for reading today! I definitely hope to share some updates soon:) I really just had to move most of my things from my house to my studio. Have a great Sunday! xx

  12. Happy Sunday Tieghan, Gerard fam, and HBH team! I loved today’s NFT. Such hope and positivity! I’m so excited for you and for everything coming up! I truly can’t wait to see what you’ve been working on. And if you’re excited for fall already, I know it will be great! Have a wonderful week ahead. Sending you lots of good, positive vibes!

    1. Hey Jen,
      Happy Sunday! Love to hear you enjoyed today’s post, thanks for that:) Yes, I cannot wait to share, so stay tuned! Hope you are having a relaxing weekend! xxT

  13. Can you share which product was causing your skin damage? I love a lot of the items you share but would hate to spend hundreds of dollars on a luxury skin care item that causes flaky skin rashes. Thank you for the transparency!

    1. Hey Caroline! It was my eye serum BUT everyone’s skin is so different and reacts differently to products. I still love this brand of serum, my skin just does not react well with it anymore:( but that does not mean your skin will be the same! I’d still test product before you make any decisions!

      Does that make sense? Let me know if you have questions! I’m so happy to help with this!

  14. Happy Sunday! Great list, as always. I’m obsessed with Boy Smells candles and I know you’re going to love them! Question- Where did you take the cover photo of your dad and Oslo? It looks like a really cool location. You always have such a great eye for detail in photos and I’m inspired to one day be as creative as you! I love their matching red shirts and the red buildings in the background! Have a great week ahead 🙂

    1. Hi Laura,
      Happy Sunday! Thanks for reading. Yes, I love Boy Smells candles, they are so good, I’m excited to try these new ones! The photo was taken in San Miguel, so pretty right?! I hope you are off to a great morning! xx

      1. Yes, that is a cool shot. A keeper! Do you are good at photographing other than good! Love it!