Mom's Famous Black Bean Soup

This is my most requested recipe of any dish I have ever cooked! And it’s not even mine…The credit belongs to my mom. We love a good cozy soup night, and we also love healthy meals. This packs the perfect punch of both—The entire dish is made from vegetables. No creams, no butter, no pasta. From start to finish, cooking this soup might take you 20 minutes. And if you like classic Mexican flavors— black beans, cilantro, lime— Then look no further! This recipe is also wallet and family friendly. I usually have leftovers for days. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS
1 yellow onion
3 cans black beans, drained + rinsed
1 can medium Rotel
1.5-2 cups chicken broth, depending on desired consistency
1 bunch of cilantro
Juice of 2 limes


DIRECTIONS
1. Chop the onion and cook it in olive oil over medium heat until it’s caramelized and tender. I cook it for about 7 minutes until they look like fajita onions—Gives the soup a good depth of flavor.
2. Add the drained and rinsed black beans, can of Rotel and the broth to the onions. Add less broth if you want a thicker soup (like I do!) and more if you like it to be thinner.
3. Bring the pot of beans to a low boil and then remove from heat.
4. Add in the chopped cilantro and lime juice.
5. Transfer the bean soup to your blender and blend to desired consistency. I like mine very smooth—You may prefer chunkier soup.
6. Give it a taste. It’s supposed to be very limey! And then send me a thank you card in the mail :)

xo, MM

Our Costa Rican Getaway

New years are for setting new goals, right? Well getting out of the country and striving for more spontaneity is always high up there for us…And we got two for the price of one on this trip! Just spent a long weekend on the western coast of Costa Rica, and two weeks ago we didn’t know this trip existed. The best kind of scramble!

A villa through Exclusive Resorts on Peninsula Papagayo became available, so…We booked it, called up a couple of college friends who said yes over the phone and we were on our way! Never could I have anticipated the wonder I would experience throughout the stay. I knew Costa Rica would be beautiful, but I wasn’t expecting breathtaking at every turn.

DAY ONE

To get to the western part of the country, it’s easiest to land at Liberia International Airport. Flight travel was fairly easy from Dallas—quick connection in Houston— and we picked up the car we booked just off airport grounds. A single, one-lane highway riddled with tiny supermercados and melon stands connects you from the airport to Peninsula Papagayo. Following the traffic signs was simple, and once we made that turn toward the peninsula, it was like watching the gates of Heaven opening before us. Our awe was audible from the rental car! Not to mention that Costa Rican sunset…

We stayed in Venado 2 through Exclusive Resorts, which was simply fabulous. A golf cart, full service, a couple of private beach clubs. What more could you want or need?! Our entire group was reunited and ready to go! Also on the peninsula is a gorgeous Four Seasons that we walked to for a fresh seafood dinner that first night, morning coffees and acai bowls. Our group kept echoing the same sentiments the entire trip: “Life is not real here!” The privacy, staff, adventure options, wildlife and scenery were unparalleled. It feels as though you’re on your own island, and that island is Jurassic Park. But the menacing dinosaurs are replaced with adorable monkeys who want to steal your chips and guac.

View from our rental car. Highway connecting Liberia Airport to Peninsula Papagayo.

DAY TWO

The first morning will be seared in my brain forever. Chris and I woke up early to enjoy a quiet morning with books and coffees on the balcony while a chef came to prepare breakfast. Lost in our reads, we looked up to see a troop of white-faced, Capuchin monkeys descending onto our deck! I immediately started talking to them, wanted to feed them snacks…And Chris was busy moving all of our belongings inside. (I call them cute, locals call them thieves.) We couldn’t believe what we were seeing! Our friends can vouch for me here—from that moment on, I had a tough time paying attention to much more than when the monkeys would visit next.

We spent a good deal of the day at the two beach clubs on the property— Poro Poro and Prieta. Aside from being the perfect place to lounge and enjoy a couple of Imperial beers, both locations also offered a wide variety of beach activities. We borrowed snorkel gear, kayaks, and booked a boat excursion for the late afternoon! Four hours of marine bliss. Our guide took us ashore into caves, tubing and snorkeling out at sea—Wish I had an underwater camera, because he was handling puffer fish and starfish for our group to examine up close! All of the action followed by good music, fresh fruit and another cotton-candy sunset.

That night we had Exclusive Resorts bring us a grill pack so that we could relax at home over dinner! Highly recommend. We threw six steaks over the coals, decanted some red wine and played cards the rest of the night. The perfect end to a perfect day.

Morning robes + monkeys! My favorite part of the trip.

Day on the boat! Give us all the fruit!

DAY THREE

No monkeys the next morning over breakfast, unfortunately. But another great day of relaxation and adventure at Poro Poro Beach Club! Hot tubbing, reading, poolside lunch to name a few. And that afternoon we booked a new thrill— Electric mountain biking!

I will be the first to say that trail biking is not in my wheelhouse, but experiencing something new always is. We had a great guide who took us for a sunset ride, helped us summit to some unbelievable views and taught us a lot about the peninsula itself. I think all of us are now trying to justify how we buy electric bikes for the city…Those things pack a punch.

For the last supper, we drove to a tapas restaurant called Chao Pescao. We mass ordered from every page on the menu, toasted the holiday weekend and sipped our final “island” cocktails. It really was a trip to remember.

FAREWELL

The next day, the group departed at different times. Back to home, back to reality. I think I speak for all of us when I say we were very sad to see the trip come to an end. And for me, another reminder that memories, time and experiences are the most precious gifts we have. Call up the old friends, get out of town, stamp that passport and see the world. There’s so much out there to appreciate if you’ll just say yes…And book the ticket. Have heard from so many of you with Costa Rica questions—Ask me anything and I’ll try to help. And a travel vlog coming soon! xo.

My Love Letter to Oklahoma City

I have dreaded writing this letter for a long time. It is, without a doubt, the hardest goodbye I have yet to say. But I always knew that in the event of my exit, it would feel best for me to put it all in writing—no confusion, nothing left out, all from my heart. (And in deeply knowing myself, my last day on air will be so tearful that I won’t be able to get all of this out as eloquently! Apologies in advance.) If you’re reading this message, thank you. You’re likely a longtime friend, family member or loyal viewer.

            It’s with a heavy, but optimistic heart that I tell you I’ve made the decision to take a leap of faith and leave Oklahoma City. It has taken many months, long talks with family, ugly tears, an engagement and ceaseless soul searching for me to make this choice. And if I’m being honest, it doesn’t feel good, despite knowing it’s what is best for me at this time. 

            I arrived in OKC in December of 2014—a young 24-year-old who couldn’t believe she had landed a job here. Having grown up in Ada watching Oklahoma City stations, it was a dream to join KOCO 5. I didn’t feel fully qualified for, or deserving enough of the job at the time. But, hell, was I going to give it my all! The team automatically felt like family. My hunger and love for the assignments, the people and this community has been insatiable. That cannot be changed.

            I lead an incredible life. There are days when I sit and marvel at the blessings before me. I’m on the go, have the most rewarding career, the love of my family and the privilege of a front-row seat to daily Oklahoma history. Many of you often write and say: “Do you ever get a day off?!”, “I love following your adventures!” These notes always make me laugh and smile. And while I haven’t taken any of these things for granted, the part of my life that viewers don’t get to see on camera is the solitude this exciting life also brings. I live both ends of the spectrum. I wake up at 2am, go to sleep at 6pm—all with family and a fiancé who live in another state. Chris and I have been in a long distance relationship for 10 years—both deciding our twenties were for focusing on careers that could set us up for the best lives possible down the road. And as those twenties come to a close for me, it’s time I take this show on the road and go home to him. And to more. 

When I think back on the last five years, it amazes me all the life I’ve lived here. That morning anchor desk has held many different versions of me. I have loved, lost, made mistakes, learned lessons, worked hard, met truly remarkable people, and I have grown. And when that ON AIR light comes on, I’ve been able to leave all things good and bad outside that studio and just enjoy my early mornings with YOU. 

            I am still enamored with the news business. It’s intoxicating. And I’ll share a life update when I have one. But I’ve heard about this “You can have it all” line for a while, and it’s my turn at an attempt to grasp for it. I am leaving with the full support and love from my station—this was not their wish. To my bosses, thank you for letting me cry it out on several occasions in your offices! And for taking a chance on that inexperienced 24-year-old girl all those years ago. To my morning team, you have been my family. You have taught me invaluable lessons, laughed with me AND at me, and been the brightest example of dedication and selflessness. You, my friends, are magic. To my family, I am here only because of you. Your endless love has propelled me along my way. And to my viewers, a million thank yous wouldn’t suffice. You have warmly welcomed me into your homes, poured light into my mornings and blessed me with more gratitude than I ever imagined possible. I hope to have served you well in my time here, and that you would always save me a seat up on that anchor desk—for I have learned that we never know what life will bring, or what it will bring back. I love you all. Dearly. 

Sincerely yours, 
Markie 

The Mother of Grain Bowls

Happy weekend, friends! Wishing you all a relaxing and fun-filled two days off. This post is short and sweet…Or savory I should say. It’s in response to all the comments and requests for this recipe that I got after posting my meal-prep grain bowl to Instagram (@markie_martin)! I recreated my favorite grain bowl from Flower Child, which has almost made its debut here in Oklahoma City. The Mother Earth Bowl is full of delicious grains and veggies, add protein if you’d like; however, I’m currently on a mostly plant-based/pescatarian experiment. So, sometimes I’ll add salmon! The key to this dish, and probably any, is cooking + seasoning each ingredient individually so that the entire recipe comes together and really sings. Looks like a lot of steps, but I promise it’s not time consuming. It’s simple, packed with whole foods and can last you throughout your week. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

2 small sweet potatoes
1 medium yellow onion
1 zucchini
2 large portobello mushrooms
1 small pack of heirloom grape tomatoes
1 large bag of spinach
1 cup of kalamata olives
Your favorite hummus
2 bags of microwaveable grains (I used a medley of rice, barley, quinoa, etc.)
1 lemon
Soy Sauce
Olive Oil
Salt + Pepper
Italian Seasoning
Red Pepper Flakes

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and grab two sheet pans.
2. Cut sweet potatoes into one-inch cubes. Toss with olive oil, salt and pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Place on first pan.
3. Roast this pan for 30 minutes, flipping half way through.
4. On one half of your second pan: Place cubed zucchini. On second half: Lay out your tomatoes. Coat the veggies in olive oil and your Italian Seasoning.
5. Roast this pan for 15-20 minutes until your tomatoes get nice and blistery. (Both pans can go in together, just keep an eye out for different cooking times.)
6. Cut your portobello mushrooms into long strips, place in a bowl with a few healthy dashes of soy sauce. Set to the side and let marinate while you get to sautéing your remaining ingredients.
7. Cut onion into long, thin pieces and cook in a big saute pan with olive oil until they get translucent and slightly caramelized. Remove to big mixing bowl where the entire dish will eventually come together.
8. To the same saute pan, add the mushrooms with the soy sauce. Cook for a few minutes until they reduce in the sauce. Add to big mixing bowl with onions.
9. To the saute pan, add entire bag of spinach with the juice of your lemon. Let this majorly reduce until you have cooked spinach. Add it to your mixing bowl.
10. Add the contents of your two roasted sheet pans to the mixing bowl. Along with the microwaved grains and kalamata olives.
11. Mix all the contents together and serve with a dollop of hummus on top!

Bon Apetit! Side note: I also drizzled mine with a lemon tahini dressing I found at Whole Foods for added creaminess, but certainly not necessary. Let me know if you try this!

xo,
MM

Saying, "Yes!"

Since we’ve checked in last, I’ve gotten ENGAGED! Such a fun time of life to float on Cloud 9 with your person and celebrate with loved ones. I’ve had many of you reach out and ask for the full proposal story, but I wanted to wait a couple weeks for the photos to come in. Well, here they are, and here is our story:

Growing up, my family spent summers in Seaside, Florida. A quaint little beach town that, back in the 90s, was much less popular than today! We stayed in the same house on the water, Southern Exposure, every year and set up camp for a long, relaxing week. We strolled the beach for shells in the morning, rode our bikes to breakfast at Modica Market for freshly baked bran muffins and orange juices swimming with pulp. In the afternoons, we went to town for ceramics painting, or I’d settle in for a game of cards at the kitchen table with my grandmother who we called “Shugie.” Margo and I lived in white, flowy dresses..I still do all these years later! Despite the trendy destination it has become, I still have a romanticized view of Seaside.

In the 10 years I have dated Chris, I have mentioned to him on countless occasions how special this place is to me; however, he had never been! This summer, we were at home in Dallas when we decided to book a trip for the two of us— no friends, no family, no weddings. Just a special getaway for two. In booking our house, we didn’t need Southern Exposure with all its bedrooms, so we chose a smaller cottage just down the road (Little Feet if anyone out there is reading this and wants a romantic vacation). Signed, sealed, delivered, we were good to go! I was ecstatic for Chris to see Seaside in person— especially in October’s off-season so it could feel empty like it used to.

We drove down 30A into Seaside at midnight on a Thursday. First thing we did after unpacking was go for a night walk on the beach and find Southern Exposure in the dark so we could both see it for ourselves. I could tell Chris was already enamored with this place—its sandy paths illuminated by white lights—and he hadn’t even seen it in the daylight yet. We turned in after that.

The next morning, we had breakfast and coffees at the market while we decided what we wanted the day to look like. (At the time, I didn’t know Chris already had a lot of it planned out!) We reserved two beach chairs for the weekend and a court for afternoon tennis, rented our bikes, and scouted which Air Stream we wanted to grab lunch from that day. We quickly settled into our spot in the sand so I could read the latest edition of The Seaside Times. I thought Chris was reading his Harvard Business Review, but as he would later tell me, he was staring at it blankly while silently reciting the proposal in his head ha! After tennis that afternoon, we headed home to get ready for dinner, which Chris said was at Bud & Alley’s— my favorite restaurant on the water. He looked up the time of sunset, and suggested we get ready a little earlier and go catch it on the beach before walking to dinner.

Fastforward a couple hours later, and we’re walking down the shore—taking in the views and all the glory that is vacation. Chris started to go into a monologue of really kind things about us, our long distance relationship, his pride in my career, etc. I thought to myself, this MUST be it. And what do you know…The boy got down on one knee and asked me for forever! If you know me, it’s needless to say the ugly tears came without cease. After hugging, he told me to look up—not only at the surprise photographer he had on the beach, but also at the beach house right above us. And there, on the balcony of Southern Exposure where I had spent my summers growing up as a little girl, were his family and mine… Jumping for joy with balloons, ready to celebrate us! I have never felt so much love.

Chris’ last surprise wasn’t dinner at the restaurant, but rather dinner inside the house. He found a chef in Seaside to come cook dinner so we could sit around that old kitchen table and celebrate! That’s where our families stayed for the weekend, and my heart could have burst with happiness and nostalgia. The rest of the weekend was spent relaxing, going on family bike rides, reading books and eating my share of friend pickles from the local burger shack. It was pure bliss— sad to see that weekend come to a close, but so very excited for all the new memories ahead. And more than anything, the luck and gratitude I feel for finding someone who cares for me in the way Chris does— it’s something that, in my lifetime, I’ll never get over. Thank you all for the love and well wishes you have sent my way the past few weeks. I am in pure, betrothed bliss!

xo,
MM

(Special shoutout to Seaside photographer Amanda Eubank for being there to capture the moment! Still tearing up over these pictures.)

This picture! Happiness.

Looking up to see the surprise photographer! Think I’m happy?!

Realizing we had a surprise audience in my favorite house…Our families!

Margo flew in from DC—I couldn’t believe it! She kept saying, “I finally get a brother!”

My favorite father-daughter picture to date. Both in tears here!

First new family portrait!

Welcome to My Perfect Weekend Off!

Many of you might not know that I am much more introverted than my job and life would lead you to believe! I love talking with and meeting new people, I get paid to talk, but the only way I recharge is through alone time. Which is why I was so excited to have a rare weekend to myself a few weeks ago. I relished in it. It’s wild to me when I hear from people who don’t do well with solitude and find it difficult to fill the time. So I thought I’d share my ideal “me weekend” and my approach to making it as fulfilling as possible. And a good portion of it is all about planning ahead!

When I know that I have a weekend to myself, I look into my crystal ball. I think of all the things that are important to recharging my batteries. Does anything need to be booked beforehand? For me that usually looks like bikes at my spin studio (CycleBar Classen Curve), a facial with my favorite esthetician (Gimme Sugars) or a nail appointment at my neighborhood salon (Gloss.)

What have I not gotten to do lately that would be nourishing? I love early morning and evening walks—both of which are impossible with my work schedule. I pencil those in where I see fit. Maybe that week I’m craving takeout from my favorite pho hole-in-the-wall, or the chance to cook a more elaborate meal at home? I’ll usually do one Friday night, and the other on Saturday and crack open my favorite cookbooks. I also always fit in a long trip to the sauna! And I mean LONG. I’ve gone multiple times a week for about seven years and swear by its health benefits—It’s a couple hours for me to meditate, pray, read, and just melt away the previous week.

Are there any documentaries or movies I’ve been wanting to watch?! I’ll check the local movie times and also the new releases on my streaming accounts. Don’t be afraid to go to a movie alone! It’s one of my favorite things to do—by myself, in the dark, with candy. Yes. Please.

The other piece of advice I have for people who might get a rare weekend to themselves—don’t be afraid to say no to others and prioritize yourself. Speaking for myself, my week is filled with people, interviews, odd hours, being “on”, full hair and makeup. When I get the chance to be off, I take it. I’m getting better at saying no to invites during times that I’ve set aside just for me. And it is so liberating.

I hope this might have been helpful for someone out there with a free weekend on the horizon! You wouldn’t believe how many people tell me they struggle with being alone. You don’t have to just sit at home for two days—fill your time off with everything you want to do! Try something new, go to a museum, reserve a table for one, people watch over coffee, make it worthwhile! And if your idea of heaven is to not leave home or your pajamas, well then, that’s alright, too! Hope you’re all having a great week.

xo,
MM

Post-facial glow at Gimme Sugars in Nichols Hills! My most favorite place to pamper my skin.

Takeout sushi from my neighborhood favorite, Sushi Neko.

On the weekends, I like to buy real papers and thumb through each section. Nice to set aside the digital headlines for a couple days.

Weekend Trip to LA!

I’ve been working diligently to check the items off my “Thirty Before 30” bucket list, and a weekend trip just took care of another one! I wanted to make it a point this year to visit someone I hadn’t seen in a while. So I helped plan a family trip to Los Angeles to visit a longtime friend, John Thomas, who has been like a younger brother to me. Mom and I packed our bags, hit the airport, and joined his family for a quick California weekend!

Story time here—mom met “Crazy Debbie” in flight attendant training for Southwest Airlines when they were in their 20s! They sat next to each other in that first class, and the rest is history. Best friends through careers, marriages, kids and beyond. We call her Crazy Debbie, because she really is just the life of the party and you never know what she’ll say or do next! Aren’t those the best friends?! Her children are John Thomas and Staci who are pretty close in age to my sister and me. I think I speak for all of us when I say both our families have been blessed by the other’s friendship.

Gang’s all here! (Minus Margo and the dads..) Love this crew.

My only request for the entire weekend, and my first time to LA, was to eat at Pizzeria Mozza— a restaurant whose chef I fell in love with on the Netflix series “Chef’s Table.” Pizza, pasta and salad. Let me just say it did not disappoint! We order the caprese salad (the best I’ve truly ever had), fried squash blossoms, and different pizzas. The kids shared some wine, and we all shared good stories. We were THAT table in the restaurant that was scream laughing while everyone else was trying to enjoy a nice Friday night out!

The next morning, we woke up with the sun to go on one of those epic California hikes! We hit the Runyon Canyon Summit, which is one of John Thomas’ weekend staples. The weather was perfect, the incline was needed, and the views were vast. Lots of happy dogs dotted the trail and fresh-squeezed orange juice was offered at the start and finish of the route (of course! Exactly what I had imagined for this city.)

John Thomas, me and Staci on Runyon Canyon Summit. Perfect way to start our LA morning!

Quality time with Sister Staci!

Saturday afternoon, we were the typical LA tourists and embarked on a Hollywood Homes Tour! Outside of quality time with family, this was the highlight of the trip! We had so much fun rolling through the neighborhoods, pulling up to the front gates of the biggest stars, listening to our tour guide who deserves a Hollywood star of his own. My personal favorite? The old home of Lucille Ball. I love Lucy!

An added surprise to the trip was meeting up with one of my best college girlfriends for a drink that weekend! Bailey lives in New York, I in OKC, and we didn’t even know the other would be in LA that weekend until she saw the photos I was posting. We met up at the E.P & L.P rooftop bar and really got to catch up! Side Note: You know you’re with a good friend when you’re chatting, losing track of time, and completely walk out on the check without realizing until you’re in your respective taxis home! Full disclosure, she turned around and righted our wrong haha. That was a first!

It was a quick 36 hours away, and then it was back to the airport. But on the heels of this trip, I really got to happily reflect on it. It was one of those vacations that reminds you of what really matters most in this life—and it’s not things, it’s not titles on your business card, but rather who surrounds you at the end of the day. The good friends and family you adventure with, who laugh and cry with you, who know the good, the bad and the ugly. Who aren’t affected by time and distance, and who you can be equally happy with at a fabulous dinner downtown or in a hotel bed sharing a bag of Raisinets in the middle of the day. That’s the good stuff. So here’s to future getaways and to investing in your people. Happy Monday, friends. Make it a good one.
xo,
MM

Thirty Before 30 List!

Hi, friends! What a wild couple weeks it’s been. I turned 29 a couple Fridays ago. Spent a few much-needed days with friends and family, and my heart is just bursting with happiness. I’m not one of those who gets overly emotional or worried about my age, but I do feel like this final year of my twenties is special. Closing out a decade of living and learning deserves to be met with some intention. So I’ve created (with your help) a list of thirty things I’d like to do before I turn the Big Three Oh in my next trip around the sun. And in no specific order, here it goes…Keep me accountable!

1. Take my first solo trip.
2. Wake up early one weekend morning and go hike the Wichitas.
3. Make it to the Great Salt Plains State Park.
4. Go visit a friend you need to/haven’t seen in a while.
5. Invite more friends over to break bread.
6. Do something that scares you. Skydiving?
7. Buy coffee for the person behind you in the drive-through.
8. Eat at Living Kitchen Farm and Dairy in Depew, Oklahoma.
9. Reach out to the people who have impacted your life and thank them.
10. Take your first wine + painting class.
11. Go flying more.
12. Make prayer a more constant part of your day.
13. Buy a piece of Oklahoma art that is meaningful to you.
14. FINALLY start or join a dinner/book club.
15. Buy a subscription to a publication of your choice.
16. Update your passport.
17. Get out of the country.
18. Implement more of a morning routine before work. Yikes that’s early!
19. Add yoga back into your weekly routine.
20. Get to know your local farmer’s market better.
21. Take the Texas stargazing trip with Dad.
22. Take a class that teaches you how to use your camera.
23. Go to more Thunder games!
24. Get comfortable and adventurous on your road bike!
25. Take a seasonal load of worn/used items to a donation drop-off. Pare down to what you use + enjoy.
26. Freshen up your Spanish with a program like Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, etc.
27. Go to a concert.
28. Have more than one sister weekend in DC with Margo.
29. Rent a boat on Lake Hefner.
30. Be proud of yourself.

A College Reunion in Telluride!

Hi, everyone! It’s been a few weeks, but I am so excited to share this video with you. A big group of my best college friends from the University of Richmond reunited in my favorite place for the week. Pure bliss, adventure and so many laughs my head still hurts. Maybe this will give you inspiration to plan your next trip?! Enjoy!

New Years Resolutions, the 2019 Edition

Happy 2019, my friends! Always good to see you here. Thought I’d dedicate this post to my hopes during the course of the next 12 months, as most of us do the first few days of the new year. Not going to reinvent the wheel here…Just wanted to share the things I want to focus on.

People have such polarized opinions and approaches when it comes to new years resolutions—from those who think they’re futile, to those whom they energize, to those who set a million of them and stick to none. I love everything about them, despite the fact that I do fall short since I tend to set so many straight out of the gate. No matter where you land on the spectrum, I hope 2019 is full of life, love and accomplishments. Here is my list.

CONSISTENCY. Each year, I choose a word I’d like to focus on. Last year it was “intentional.” This year, I want consistency. Consistent in my efforts at work, in the gym, in investing in the relationships that matter most to me. More consistency when it comes to nutrition, self-care and my pursuit of passions. What would your word be?

KNOWLEDGE. Each year I strive to read at least one book a month, and one article a day. I find that when I’m reading more, I have more to talk about. Whether that’s at work, a dinner party or an event…It’s easier to find yourself engaged in an interesting conversation when you’re feeding your brain. In the same vein, a few years back I vowed to research things that I was unfamiliar with when I came across them. A word, a concept, a person…If I happen across something I don’t know, I stop and look it up. Knowledge on the spot.

ENTERTAINMENT. In 2019, I want to waste less time on meaningless television or radio. I don’t do much of this to begin with, but there is always room for improvement. This year, if I’m watching TV or a movie, it’s either teaching me something, is meaningful or is critically acclaimed. A couple weeks back I participated in a “Guess the Golden Globes Winners” competition. I had only watched two of the nominations. Not okay. This year I want to be more engaged in the entertainment people are talking about and watch more documentaries (if that’s possible). Plus—a pretty fun resolution!

HEALTH. I’m already pretty proud of my starting point with this one. But, as everyone does, I fall off the bandwagon from time to time. This year, I want to add more diversity to my routine, book more workout classes online, and streamline my meal-prep. The first week of 2019, I got a full blood test done for the first time ever. If there is something I can be doing, I want to be on top of it. And I hope you do the same!

PRIORITIZE. I think part of the beauty of getting older (and hopefully wiser) is that you start to prioritize the people and activities that serve you and feed your soul. You start to feel less guilty about saying no to that night out on the town, that concert, event—Whatever it might be. Looking back on 2018, I didn’t do so well in this category. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all about saying yes to new adventures, meeting new people, etc. But you know your limits. I know mine. I’m an ambivert, so I need a lot of quality me time. In 2019, I want to get better at managing my time and energy.

Hope this post is inspiring, maybe helps you set the tone for YOUR new year. I’m always looking for new ideas and goals…Would love to hear what you’re focused on in 2019! xo, MM

Here’s my first attempt at making more breakfast smoothies this year. Chocolate banana + almond butter protein smoothie.

Girls weekends are the best! Catching up with my girlfriend from college, Kate, at Barrio’s in OKC.

One of my favorite me-time activities…Booking a tennis court and the ball machine!

Photo after my first full bloodwork was taken. This ties in with my health goals for the year. Interested to get my results back!

New Year's Vacation Vlog: Telluride, Colorado!

Brought in the New Year in the happiest place on earth! Thought it might be fun to take you along. Wishing you a prosperous 2019 full of new adventures!

Hi from Texas!

Hi, everybody! I’ve been trying to make it a point to post weekly on Mondays, but I’ve been on vacation enjoying some time with my family at home. With that being said, this week is less of a “how-to” and more of just sharing how I like to spend my limited time off.

I have a rare 10 days off down in Dallas with my friends and family. When I was thinking about what I’d like to do with this time several weeks back, I was imagining all the places I should travel. But with it being around Christmas, I knew the only place I really wanted to be was home. My Fall season wasn’t really what one would call “restful,” so I have really taken advantage of this break.

It just so happens that a true crime documentary about my hometown was released on Netflix the night I got home! Besides having nightmares from it the first evening, “The Innocent Man” must be added to your list. Especially if you grew up in that area. Knowing some of the key players and every scene has really thrown me for a loop…But to be able to just relax and watch a new show has been much appreciated.

When I’m allotted time off, I like to somewhat maintain my health and fitness routines. This week I have spent my slow mornings trying some workout studios across Dallas. A couple spin classes, some Pure Barre classes with my mom, walks on the Katy Trail and in my neighborhood. Feels good to keep on moving, and for me it’s an added bonus to feel good when you return to the Real World!

One night this week, I also cooked dinner for my family at home, which is a nice switchup from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. I made Avgolemono soup—a Greek, lemon chicken soup. I am often happiest when I’m in the kitchen cooking and entertaining for the people I love most.

But somewhere in there, mixed in with all of that, I’ve also done a lot of indulging, snoozing, shopping, celebrating! My idea of a good time on vacation! I hope your holiday season has been full of love and laughter. Would love to hear how you enjoy your vacation time! Merry Christmas from my family to yours :)

xo,
MM

Nothing I love more than a spa night at home. Trying a new face mask by Drunk Elephant.

Soup night at home + “The Innocent Man” documentary.

Starting my Avgolemono soup!

Afternoon coffee date!

Found a quiet place to read. Finishing “Killers of the Flower Moon.”

My Weekly Workout Schedule

Happy Tuesday, friends! I got this request from several of you this past week—What does your weekly workout routine consist of? How do you stay on track? Loaded questions, but I’d love to tackle them for you.

Working out is a form of therapy for me. It’s cathartic, it’s healthy, declutters my mind and helps me feel and look my best. If I’m having a busy week or season of life when I’m not getting in my usual exercise, I feel it in both mind and body—even my skin. The lethargy starts to set in, the exhaustion, I become less organized. Basically, my world starts to spiral. So I do everything in my power to stay on top of it.

Each week, I strive to get in at least four workouts. That’s the bench mark number for me. Any less, I notice a difference. And then there are several weeks where I work out every day. As with everyone, some weeks are better than others. I’m on a stretch now where I’ve been sick for a week and have worked out once. Needless to say, I’m ready to hop back on the wagon. So how do I attempt to stay on track?? Hope this helps! -MM

1. SCHEDULE YOUR UPCOMING WEEK
   On Sundays, I’ll open up my calendar to view the week ahead. That’s when I start putting the puzzle together—okay, a work event this day. A luncheon at this time. Coffee date on Wednesday. I plug in the workouts where I can fit them. I am a member of a local spin studio here and a gym—both of which have scheduling capabilities on my phone. I book bikes/mats in yoga/tennis courts ahead of time. Those classes are automatically booked into my phone and I stick to them like I would a date with anybody else. On days that classes can’t fit my schedule, I’ll schedule my outdoor runs on those days. I enjoy getting the biggest bang for my buck from the memberships I pay for. Not to mention, those studios are a chance for me to see people and friends in my very abnormal work schedule!

2. SHARE YOUR SUCCESS
   If you follow me on my other social platforms, you probably notice an effort on my part to document when I’m getting good exercise in. It keeps me motivated and accountable! Makes me feel good to see my workouts and results, hear positive feedback from viewers and pass the momentum on to them.

3. REMEMBER HOW YOU FEEL WITHOUT IT
   It’s not every day that I feel like hitting the gym. And if I’m having one of those days where I'm saying “I could skip spin class and just relax at home…” I remind myself that I have to put in the work to feel good. Unless I’m sick and truly need to rest, I will almost always choose to lace up my tennis shoes. Even if it’s just going for a long walk outside.

4. FOOD IS FUEL
   This deserves its own post in many different parts. But where it pertains to working out and movement—if you’re not fueling your body correctly, your brain isn’t fueled either. When I’m not eating right, I don’t have the energy to workout and also have no motivation to even put on my workout clothes. Not a good feeling! Make this a habit the majority of your meals.

5. MY WEEK IN WORKOUTS
   Monday: Run or Spin
   Tuesday: Cyclebar
   Wednesday: Spin/Weights at the gym
   Thursday: Cyclebar
   Friday: Afternoon run or Happy Hour Cyclebar
   Saturday + Sunday: Rest or morning Cyclebar
   

Highlights from My Fall Travels

Okay, it’s just embarrassing how long it’s been since we’ve been here together. A mix of work and the busiest Fall travel season I’ve yet to see the likes of! But I’ve had plenty of plane rides to pen some updates, so that really is no excuse. HOWEVER, in my defense: Six weddings, one bachelorette getaway, three speaking engagements, two work appearances and one high school reunion. Since September 1! Countless people and milestones I wouldn’t have missed for the world, but I am glad to be winding down the rest of 2018.

In all honesty, I’m pretty tough on myself—constantly evaluating my work performance, I MUST close the rings on my Apple watch, you get the picture. I'm a creature of habit, and I’ve been out of routine for the last 10 weeks. I haven’t checked into my favorite spin studio nearly as often, many days have seen trips to the Whole Foods hot bar, and it was a rare hors d’oeuvres that I turned down at those nuptials. But now that I’ve survived, I wouldn’t have traded it for the world. I’ve gained more memories, more laugh lines, new friends, more items checked off the Bucket List. You know what they say… For everything there is a season. And this season was about being there for those I love most—they have always been there for me. I hope your holiday season is full of laughter and love.

And I’ll end it there! Here are some highlights from my recent travels. xo, MM

Bucket List Item: Watching Novak Djokovic in the US Open championship. And he won!

At the wedding of one of my sorority sisters from college. In Woodstock, CT.

Can’t turn down a good dance floor!

Gave a talk for Women Promoting Women in Ardmore, OK. Thanks for having me!

Bridesmaid duty for my best college girlfriend, Alex! Fanny packs are a must.

Beautiful wedding at The Bush Library in Dallas, TX!

My 10-year Ada High School reunion. With most of my tennis team!

My One-Pan Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki Roast

Say hello to the newest recipe to rock my meal prep world: One-Pan Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki. This came to me a couple months ago after a gluttonous night of Chinese takeout--and the sodium hangover that followed. I knew I could make my own healthy version that I felt good about eating multiple times in the same week. It is simple, flavorful, wallet-friendly and lasts me for an entire week of take-to-work lunches. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS
2 chicken breasts
1 large head of broccoli
1 bag of frozen, shelled edamame
1 tub of fresh pineapple, cut into cubes
Bottle of your favorite teriyaki or stir fry sauce

DIRECTIONS
If your pan is large enough, you can do it all on one. Salt and pepper the chicken and vegetables. 
Cover the breasts and veggies in the teriyaki sauce, toss. 
Transfer to your pan and roast at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes. 
Portion it out into your meal prep containers of choice and enjoy throughout the week. 
 

Added bonus-- when I do feel like adding carbs to the dish (which is almost always a yes), I add half an Annie Chun's microwaveable sticky rice to each serving. Really amps it up! Hope everyone is having a great week :) 
xo,
MM

Oops I Ran a Half Marathon + My Running Tips

Last Sunday morning, I ran my first half marathon. Not because I trained for it, or have always wanted to run 13.1--in fact, my bib was designated for the "D" corral of the relay race. In a way, it was sort of on "accident." I ran my first half marathon because I got to my 6-mile exchange point, handed off my ankle chip and decided I had more gas left in the tank. An extra 75 minutes later, I finished my first real race. 

I say all of this not for the congratulations--although I am very proud of myself-- but for the message that we are much stronger than we think we are. We can accomplish any goal that we set our minds to. And after surprising yourself once, the conceptual domino effect of what's to come is really very exciting. 

The Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon was ELECTRIC. My first time out there. In years past, I was working weekends and covering the race live from in studio. With almost 25,000 runners, the route is spectacular, the neighborhood locals are in their front yards rooting you on with (sometimes spiked) hydration. I now see what the hype is all about! 

Because I'm hearing from a lot of people who say they doubt they could ever do it, here are my tips for you. It is much more doable than you think it is. 

• Pick a good route. For me, location matters. My run has to feel safe, picturesque, and it doesn't hurt that my finish line puts me at my favorite neighborhood Starbucks and juice shop :)
• Start slow. When I began running again, I didn't want to be overwhelmed. So I told myself twice a week, I'd run 2-3 miles. If I needed to run/walk... That was okay. 
• Stick with it. It takes a couple weeks of routine for that "runner's high" to kick in. All of a sudden, you wake up one day looking forward to that afternoon run you're going to get in. That's when you know the addiction has kicked in!
• Sign up for a 5k! Join that race atmosphere with other like-minded athletes. That feeling of camaraderie, getting a good workout in and being charitable (as most race proceeds usually go toward a good cause) is unparalleled. 
• Reward yourself! When you finally reach a goal you've set out to accomplish, treat yourself. For different people, that means different things. It might be a cheat meal, a vacation somewhere, throwing a dinner party for friends and family. For me, it is buying a new workout outfit. It gives me motivation to keep moving. 

Would love to hear your running stories--you all keep me motivated! Here's to Monday and a fresh, new week. 

xo,
MM

Post-race splurge! My best finds almost always come from Athleta. 

At a Glance: My Day-to-Day

One of the questions I get asked the most frequently is: "What does your day-to-day look like?" People usually gasp when I tell them about the alarm clocks and the meal times. I'm telling you, it's bizarre--but it's my normal! And although I try to live as unapologetically as possible, I am sorry to each of you for missed events, texts and phone calls over the years. I am dead to the world after 6pm! Truly. So here it is...My normal workday.

2:15am: First alarm goes off. 

2:30am: Out of bed. Check overnight emails, dress for work, wash and prep face for a new day of TV makeup!

3am: Arrive at work. Breakfast is usually a Chobani flip-cup in Almond Coco Loco. Read over the morning scripts. 

3:30-4:20am: Hair & makeup. Which I do myself.

4:30am: We are live with our first show of the day! 

7am: Finished with the early shows. Time for lunch and prep for the later show! 

9am: Last newscast of the day. Let's make it a good one! 

11am: Work day is done. Pulls out of the lot like skrrrrrrrt. 

12pm-1:30pm: Workout hour. Either with my trainer or an outdoor run if the Oklahoma weather is cooperating. 

3pm: Dinner/Interview prep for the next day. 

4pm: Wind down. That includes shower, face masque, food prep for following day, steaming the next morning's dress. 

5pm: In bed. Read a few chapters of my book or watch a new documentary on Netflix. 

6pm: Lights off--Goodnight, moon! 

xo,
MM

The Gratitude List

A couple years ago, I bought a beautiful journal on a winter trip to New York City. I was so thrilled at the thought of filling it, but stared blankly at that first empty page--unsure of what to dedicate the premiere entry to. So, I sent out an SOS to my viewers. One of the first responses I received was from a man who suggested I write "a gratitude list." He told me it always helped him refocus on the things going well in his life. Brilliant. I've thought of that man here and there ever since. A big thank you to whoever you are out there in this big old world. While this list is far from complete, and in no particular order, here is a glimpse at what I'm thankful for: 

*Oklahoma City. 
*My career. WOW is it abnormal, but it fulfills me. 
*The welcoming of Spring! 
*My health, and that of my family's. 
*Falling in love with running again. Feels good. Will do the Red Bud & Memorial Marathon relay.
*I have a long trip home on the horizon! Looking forward to a few days off. 
*Members of my community. First time I've ever felt truly connected to a city.
*Junior League of OKC. I've failed at being the most active member haha, but I've made great girlfriends. 
*There is a roof over my head, and for that I am grateful.
*Recently discovered Channel 128 on XM Radio--The Joel Osteen channel. Makes my commutes and days a little brighter! 
*Have stuck with my New Years Resolution (so far) of reading at least one book a month.
*Independence. I think it's my most cherished quality. 
*Life's hidden gifts that are sometimes disguised as setbacks! 

Let me know if you make your own gratitude list...I'd love to read it! 

xo,
MM

Chicken Caesar Spaghetti Squash Bake

New obsession! Spaghetti squash. I've had it a couple times before, but to make it yourself and fork out those spaghetti strands is the most satisfying thing maybe ever. And quite easy, too! I came across this recipe online at LittleBitsOf.com, thought it looked tasty and definitely healthy for my work lunches I have to pack. And the best part--only FOUR ingredients. Winner winner, chicken dinner.

INGREDIENTS

2 SPAGHETTI SQUASH
1 MEDIUM BUNCH OF FLAT-LEAF KALE
SHREDDED MEAT FROM ONE ROTISSERIE CHICKEN
1 BOTTLE OF TESSEMAE'S DAIRY-FREE CAESAR DRESSING
SALT + PEPPER TO TASTE

DIRECTIONS

Cut the spaghetti squash in half, rub with olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast, cut-side down, at 375 for 50 minutes.
In a bowl, put chopped kale and shredded chicken. Mix in entire bottle of Caesar dressing. Let the chicken marinate and the kale wilt for several minutes.
After forking out the spaghetti squash, put the strands in the bowl and mix all ingredients together. Adding salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350 for 15-20 minutes until it's all heated through.

And that is it! So easy, and I feel good after eating it. Also interested in trying some of the other Tessemae's dressings after this recipe. Hope everyone is having a delicious day!

MM