Weekly Workouts

So, I definitely work better if I prepare ahead of time (duh)

Write everything out.

Maybe write it a few times.

Share my plan.

My sister gave me this plan at the end of Summer, and between getting sick, back to school, getting sick again, Joe turning 40...life has gotten away from me!

This is my goal.  I hope to have 2 'rest days' --this doesn't mean I won't or can't workout but it just means no pressure. (I work better this way)

So hopefully I have knocked this workout out of the park by the time you read this.

Legs:

Smith Machine 15 reps 3x

Curls 15 reps 3x

Extentions 15 reps 3x

Press 15 reps 3x

Calf Raises 15 reps 3x

#boom

Hopefully I inspire others too!  

It's never too late to start again.  

Even a 10 minute walk is better than nothing.

Advocare Cleanse Day 1, Fitness & Faith

Hey Monday!

Today I am finishing up my 10th day of antibiotics and starting my 10 day cleanse.  I haaaaate antibiotics and am so grateful for them healing me, but now get that bad bacteria out of my gut. Puhlease!  I should probably wait until tomorrow to start, but timing wise, this is what needs to happen, mmm k?

It's been a hot minute (90 days) since my last cleanse and I found myself picking off the kids plates just a wee too much.  You know what I'm talking about mama, I know you do.  "Just one bite," turns into "just one cookie" or "'I'll eat clean tomorrow" or "Well, I ate like crap all weekend so what's the point of it starting to eat clean now?"

Well the point is that you will feel a million times better and will thank yourself if you stick to and get back into a healthy regime.  If I use the word "diet" I refer to what I am eating.  I am never ON a diet, I will never be on a diet. I like to think of the 80/20 rule because back when my girl Nikki told me about that, my world was changed forever.

I always struggled with eating healthy or staying fit.  I usually carried an extra 10-15 pounds and would not have considered myself fat, but I was never really comfortable.  Unless I starved myself from carbs and worked out like a maniac, it was a challenge.

Enter in Advocare

Finding my groove back in 2013 was crucial.  After having Brooke and having A LOT of extra weight to lose, I was seriously ready for something.

I had no idea how much Advocare would teach me, the friends I'd gain along with the confidence that it brought me.

I am still a MUCH better person today thanks to Nikki for reaching out a hand, and Danielle showing her the way.

While I may not be building a business with it, I certainly fuel my body a lot better because of it.  (And still enjoy my 40% discount FOR LIFE)

At 36 I want to be in fantastic shape to run and keep up with my kiddos.

I want to feel the best in my own skin and treat my body well.

I want to be as hot and sexy as I can for my main man!!

It's true.

So you just gotta find what works for you.


Today I did legs and it felt oh so good.

I started with the probiotics, followed by the peach fiber (YUM) and then I was kind of mad at myself for, A.) Not eating enough breakfast and B.) Not taking a photo!

I had 2 eggs w/ spinach and one pc of dry wheat toast.  I needed more...

Meal 2 was one small chicken breast, a veggie & some brown rice at 10:45 haha.

Then I had to go stage one of our homes & knew I needed some energy to do it...

After my leg workout I hit up the vegan chocolate shake.

I'm not sure if I'll do chicken or fish tonight, but I made sure hubby grilled up chicken and venison yesterday so I will NOT be short in the protein department.

I'm starting to look into the whole Macros thing..still super confusing and do I really need a food scale?!

I also have a new girl crush...I don't watch TV really, but I tend to get sucked into You Tube and following people that I admire.  When I was pregnant, my feed was flooded with other prego mamas. Now I feel like I need to be surrounded by healthy, fit and inspiring ladies! She is hysterical and real.  I love her easy recipes and her dog is adorable too!

I must say that although getting sick kind of made me down in the dumps, now that I'm doing much better, I feel so much more focused and energized than before.

I attribute it to really starting to walk further along in my faith.  With some very knowledgable and intelligent ladies in my life, I feel as though I am starting to reach a place of such peace and serenity.

True alignment with oneself happens when you can pull apart all of the layers of and see the very core, meaning of life.  I will continue to work super hard at this level because I have never felt so good mind, body and soul.  Am I perfect? No.  Am I exactly where I want to be? Yes and No.  But I know I am on my way to getting there.  Slow and steady.

Enjoy your day friends!

Cleansing & Thoughts for June

Holy smokes!!

I am not sure how it is June 8th, but here we are folks!   I don't like abandoning the blog, but life happens, I suppose.  We had a great May, filled with some staycation time, date nights, and lots of time with family.  We've been hustling hard, building our real estate portfolio and working diligently on our business.

I felt the need to check myself with my eating, as I could feel my clothes not fitting how I like.  I haven't been prioritizing myself and have been eating more like 50/50 instead of 80/20, so I knew it was time to reboot.

I love documenting my cleanses so that I know what I ate during them...sometimes I get lazy and busy and make excuses as to why I don't eat 'clean' but if I can look back here and see it wasn't so hard after all, it just took a little prep time, it helps!

I started my cleanse Wednesday June 7th.
Starting weight: 137


If you have followed me for awhile, you know I was super into Advocare.  I still love their products and truly believe they help! The 24 day challenge helped me learn how to eat correctly and what foods really make me feel the best.

However, as I get older and my body changes and I find what works and doesn't work for me as well.  As much as I LOVE Spark, with my reflux, I just can't drink it.  Same goes for coffee.  I could cry into my green tea latte, but to be honest I am ok without them.

I did however branch out and try Beachbody's Energize, which doesn't seem to irritate me.  Its main source of caffeine is green tea---which is the only form of caffeine I seem to be able to tolerate well.  I also have switched to Shakeology because quite honestly, I enjoy the taste much better than any of the Advocare's shakes.  I am not here to diss or knock, I am just stating what works for me and my body.

I am also a member of Beachbody On Demand because it is the ONLY way I keep up with my workouts.  I have no desire to drag two kids to the gym.  I can throw on my sneakers or pull out my mat and get to work.

I am doing the 14 day Yoga challenge and I started yesterday as well.

So for this 10 day cleanse, here is my raw, honest and real approach!!

I am doing Advocare's 10 day cleanse (includes probiotics in the AM along with a fiber drink and then cleanse tablets PM)

Eating clean-aka-

• No alcohol
• No processed foods (other than protein powder)
• No refined carbohydrates
• No extra sugars
• No green tea lattes from the 'bux
• Drinking lots of water all day long (1/2 my body weight)
• Eating 5-6 small meals a day
• Getting good sleep

Day 1:

MEALS

Meal 1- I had 2 eggs over easy, ezekial toast, avocado spread on top, few tomatoes
Meal 2- 1/2 cup oatmeal, 1 cup of cashew milk, dash cinnamon & a few strawberries (overnight oats)
Meal 3- Vegan Cafe Latte Shakeology w/ cashew milk, 4 ice cubes, 1/2 banana & a tsp of pb
Meal 4- Chocolate Protein shake w/ ice and water after my yoga sesh
Meal 5- Thai Chicken Lettuce Wrap (cube chicken, grill pan, season, mix with broccoli, almond butter & Braggs liquid aminos (I dont have coconut aminos and lime juice. Sounds weird; trust me, it's good!)
Meal 6-  I felt a little hungry after dinner so I diced up turnips and sweet potatoes, evoo and seasoned in a pan.  They satisfied my salty tooth!


I saw this on the Advocare Facebook page and may have to try them! Use whatever protein powder you have.

Tip or trick:

Hardboil some eggs and always have easy fresh fruits and veggies on hand.  I ate these on Monday, as I was trying to prep for my meal prep haha.  I know that is the hardest thing for me as a busy momma of a 2 and 4 year old, plus having to cook separate meals for Joe because he cannot eat too many vegetables or whole grain/whole wheat items.

Lastly:

I constantly feed my brain.  I'm always listening to motivating podcasts, audiobooks, and looking at solid quotes.  Get comfortable with being uncomfortable.  We as a society have learned to settle for average.  We continue to live our lives with tunnel vision, no expectations, not pushing ourselves over and beyond.  Sometimes I wonder if I push myself or my kids too much, but then I realize that's silly.  Joe and I work very hard to create our exceptional life and there is no better way to live.  Whether is being healthy, making more money, fueling your mind and spirit with good thoughts, prayers and words, you must make efforts every single day.  There is no rest for this; we have got to face our fears, push our limits and never, EVER settle. Each and every one of us is worth more.

...more to come on that topic.

For now, Day 2 of my cleanse has commenced and I am ready to take on the world. Happy Thursday!

I Confess...

...I don't know whether I am coming or going these days!

...I keep hearing myself talk in the Olaf voice, "All good things, all good things!"

...I've spent so much time watching, reading and listening to uplifting podcasts, you tube channels, self-help audio books and I am fairly certain it is all beginning to truly pay off.

...New business ventures = life is crazy.

...Finding the time to "just be a mom" vs. "being there" is a bit of a struggle.

...I hate strict schedules, but I have got to find a solid routine!

...Currently looking for a house cleaner and less expensive childcare...work with me universe!

...I'm so stinking proud of myself for the hard work I did the last few months with my stella & dot biz.

...I have also discovered that I don't LOVE living online.  It's great to a point, but I need human, face to face, real interaction to make my soul happy.

...Hubby and I had a weekend without kids (thank you Nana & Papa!) Seriously don't know where those moments went, as it was gone in a blink of an eye!! Dinner out, sushi lunch, met with our builder, Ugly Disco, Brunch, Real Estate work...we were busy bees!

...Speaking of the Ugly Disco, I will be sharing photos, I promise! We went to our first one 8 years ago! I think we look even better now haha! It is such a fun event and for such a great cause.

...In the middle of all of the hustle and bustle I am consciously making efforts to stop and smell the roses.  Life is short and we must enjoy the little things! (cliche, but so true!)

...There truly comes a time in your life where things make zero sense, so you stop feeding into them.

...Current Mantras: "Do fewer things more often and get better at them---FOCUS." And  "Success is determined by what you say NO to."--Steve Jobs

...I'm also loving Jesus Calling as my daily devotional.  I swear things are speaking to me and if I only let my faith and trust God, the universe, the Divine, I then live my best life possible.

...I'm SUPER excited to go to the Circus today, and by Circus, I mean Brooke's pre-school class.  She's a lion! ROAR!

...Bradley Boo is singing his ABC's, chatting up a storm, and really coming into his own.

...Brooke is currently obsessed with laying eggs, 'hatching' them, and pretending she's a bird. Bless.

...There are a million things I would love to blog, but I am struggling to find time to breathe!

....We finally invested in a Ninja---GAME CHANGER---I have been making what taste like Wendy's Frostys to me!  2 frozen bananas, a few blueberries/raspberries frozen, cashew milk with protein, 1 tbl of peanut butter, 1 tbl of Cacao powder, 3 ice cubes. Kids think it's ice cream!!!

...I am officially back at working out!! Beachbody on demand is my jam. Currently digging Chalene Extreme--love her! (Thanks Ann for the rec!)

... I am slacking in the dinner department. Any kid friendly meal ideas/clean eating recipes would be much appreciated!

...We keep getting a taste of warmer weather and I do believe I saw 77 on the forecast for next week!

...Currently Reading Mind Power If you are into the "Law of Attraction" get this book!!

...My youngest sister is 10 months clean. I am so proud of her.  Keep it up!!

...Something about the rain, a cup of tea, and the dryer going makes me want to blog, even at 7:30 in the morning.

....BOOM. I blogged!!! Yay!

...Happy Thursday friends!!

Currently

Clean Eating:

I am really trying to eat clean and healthy.  Winter hibernating has me feeling not so fab! Every morning I still start my day out with this fun little concoction. Eggs, spinach, tomatoes, feta.

Trying Something New: 

Joe taught me how to shoot a few weeks ago.  I was nervous because I've never pulled a trigger, but it wasn't so bad! I actually hit the little gopher target on the first try!



Boys:

Speaking of guns, this one is starting to like his toy gun from Uncle Ty Ty! He runs around yelling "bang bang!"

Storm Update:

We did end up with a little bit of damage from the windstorm. One of our trees fell down right next to our shed, luckily it fell away from the house!

Reading:

I'm in a virtual book club and really trying to keep up! I don't make myself sit and read enough, but this one definitely needs your undivided attention.  I can't read and hear screaming littles!

I needed to highlight this part...I'm constantly beating myself up for not "being where I think I should be" or going as fast as I think that I should.

House Inspiration:

I like to take little drives with the kids to scope out nice houses in the area. #creeperstatus I'm gathering inspiration for when we build as well as looking for any For Sale By Owners!

Digging Earth Tones:

I'm obsessed with this little succulent I got at Wegmans.  I also love painting my nails these colors lately!

Growing my Team & Clients:

I am really loving my little VIP group!  I do fun giveaways and am starting to put together items for a sample sale.  It's hard to part with pretty pieces, but it's time to move out the old to make room for new.   I love going "FB LIVE" and having girl talk too. Care to join?  Hop on over!  Style by Jenn VIP Group




Sales:

I still can't believe all the gold beauties that are available this month at half off when you spend $50.

Storm #2:

I was well prepared for "Stella" to come and dump a bunch of snow on us.  I love being cozied up inside, baking & having no place to go.

We got over 2 feet.

Stella the snow storm!

Workouts:

After a bit of a hiatus, I am sweating and loving it again!! I find that if I post pictures I tend to motivate myself and keep myself accountable. I have a little disco dress to fit into soon!  I made it to a yoga class before the big storm and did a few at home workouts.  I'm starting to walk Holly on the regular, am/pm and that really helps me so much.

Baking:

I try everything to get the kids to eat more fruits and veggies.  These were a hit for Bradley but Brooke not so much after the first few bites.  Banana whole wheat muffins, with maple syrup and coconut oil.

Mommy/son time:

I had groceries to buy, clothes to fold, dishes to do, and so many things!! But, this little guy trumped everything.  We've been stuck inside for far too long and I knew a little one on one time while having some fun would help this little dude out so much!! He's such a ham.

Playing:

We tried to play in the snow, but it was a bit overwhelming for the kids.  Both of them got stuck and cried at the same time! Oh my goodness.  Never a dull moment!

Cooking:

I get requests for these bad boys all of the time!! Bake at 350 degrees for 1/2 an hour, flip and coat and bake another 30 minutes.

Drinking:

I love a good red and this was delightful!  Warms you right up on a cold Winter Day.

What are you currently up to?

Fashion Friday

What a week!  Lots of snow and no place to really go!  I did get dressed up a bit for Joe's work dinner last Saturday night.  I'm usually a dress kinda gal, but it was FRIGID and I wanted to wear my fun cozy sweater from Express.  As usual, Lipsense was my bff--stayed in place all night long!  Want a long lasting and amazing lipstick and gloss? Check out my bestie's FB Group: Ann Gets Lippy.   It's worth checking out, trust me!!  I also opted for my Nila Chandiliers.

Simple arm party.

Sunday brought errand day--I was on a mission to prepare for the big Nor'easter that was headed our way.  (FYI I was so happy that I did!! I love big storms, and I love when I'm right about them!!)

New sunnies: Wesleys in blush.

Once I was stuck inside, I decided to play dress up a bit.  The new Gita Tassels are amazing and only $39!!! How incredible is that?! These will be on repeat this Summer.  I'm thinking they're going to look so cute with a tan and cute dresses!   The celestial choker is another new fave. I can't wait to layer with it!  Speaking of layering, VS Pink has some adorable bralettes.  I am a huge fan because since my reflux started, underwires kill me to wear--ugh!  So this cute peek-a-boo look with a cozy sweater is fun.

The sun finally came out all day yesterday and it felt so darn good!



Baby boy and I went and had a fun morning. Sure I should have gone grocery shopping, cleaned the kitchen, folded the clothes, ran the dishwasher...but instead we dropped off Big sis and headed out to play.  This boy needed to run his legs!

We also rode the Merry-go-Round which is always a fun time. (Like my 'mom on the go' look?  Headband, sparkle studs and mascara.

Brooke came out of school as a Leprechaun.

I FINALLY did a sweaty workout.  I put the kids down for a nap and it was go time. No more excuses. I have a disco dress to wear in 2 weeks!!

Oh, and Summer is around the corner eventually...how about these new beauties?! Launching late March!!

Top 10 Health Tips

I am by no means an expert, but I thought I'd share a few important health reminders.  As I've mentioned before, we really put a huge emphasis on our health because of Joe's Crohn's and we value our bodies so much!! We only get on body, so we should treat it like gold.  That said, I know that it's impossible to be perfect 100% and I'm totally guilty of enjoying a glass of vino every now and then.  Heck, I even give my kids McDonald's every once in awhile.

However, it's 90% of the time where we try our best to do the following.

1.  Sleep

I find that I work best on 7-8 hours.  It's not always easy, but man when I don't get my sleep--I feel awful, I act terrible and I just can't think straight.  Getting enough sleep would be my BIGGEST suggestion if you're irritable.  Mama I know it's tough when the babes are small and not sleeping through the night; it's insane.  DO NOT load up on coffee and other caffeine drinks. Simply try to get more sleep.  Get a sitter. Have your husband get up.  I wish I had taken my sleep a little more seriously with my second kid.  I definitely feel like I got a little nutty with no sleep.  Now we are BLESSED to have to babes sleep through the night.  It was a lot of tough love and work, but we never co-slept or even had the babies in our room. Personal preference, but man I am so thankful we did that today.  Our kids sleep 12 hours a night now, most nights.

2.  Drink Water 

I mean only water.  I learned that you should drink half of your body weight in water daily, and I swear it helps me stay alert, my skin is clearer and I don't eat too much junk.  Play around with the water to see what you prefer; I like mine ICE cold and Joe likes his water room temperature.  I'll add grapefruit essential oil to give it a new flavor.  Lemon or strawberries can be added to give it a different taste too.  I also have found how amazing products like Yeti or Corkcicle can keep your drinks super cold all day and all night.

3.  Move

I hate to say you have to exercise, but we really should try to sweat for 10-20 minutes (if not more) daily.  Get outside, get some fresh air, walk the dog. Chase your kids. Jump rope. Go on you tube and workout for free.  Find something that you enjoy and do it. A lot.  If you just make it a habit to do 10 minutes a day, I bet you'll surprise yourself and end up moving even more.  It's so good to keep our bodies stretching, moving and sweating.

4.  80/20

I personally feel my best when I don't eat packaged or processed junk. I know it's easy and convenient, but it's not worth the price of feeling like garbage.  I think our plates should be mostly veggies/greens, fruits--basically anything that has been grown! Also focus on lean proteins like organic chicken, pork, and lots of fish. I know it's so tempting to eat pizza, burgers and fries all the time but it's just not good for us.  The more veggies and fruits you eat, and reduce the starchy carbs, you'll be amazed at the energy and awesome feel good vibes you will have!

5.  Limit Sugar 

It's a tricky one, that sugar! It sneaks into everything we eat and drink, even if we are trying to be aware.  Watch those expensive Starbucks drinks; I am guilty as charged.  Just had to reign in my bad habit with over 40 grams a pop for most of them, it's not good for our guts OR bank accounts. Just sayin.  Sugar is so addicting and really does a number on us.  I try very hard to limit sugar going into my kids' mouths and will definitely be donating or throwing away most of their candy after Halloween.  2 & 4 they don't need all that junk! Enjoy the holiday, but don't overdue it. That's my motto.

6.  Don't stress

Stress kills.  Slow down and breathe.  Take some time for yourself; if I'm getting worked up, I try to stop and ask myself, will this matter in 5 minutes? 5 days? 5 months? 5 years? Most likely, no.  Chill out and stop stressing.  Find some good habits like taking a walk, a bubble bath or reading a book to take your mind off of whatever is bugging you.  Essential oils helped me a lot; I breathe them in, do some yoga and move on. #namaste

7.  Personal Development {PD}
Kind of becoming a trendy thing, and I'm super excited about this! I think EVERYONE should listen or read something motivational every single day.  Just like our bodies, we have got to take care of our minds.  What we think about, becomes.  What we believe, we can achieve. If you can learn to train yourself to "not go there" down the path of worry, stress, anger, madness...and focus on positivity, gratitude, and becoming better than yesterday, life gets so much better. I'm not perfect. I still get upset, yell, become frustrated, but I know each day I work at it to become a better version of myself. (see these posts for more)

8.  Laugh

I do believe laughter is the best medicine. Once I learned to stop taking life so seriously, I've become a happier person. Watch more comedies. Hangout with people who are funny.  Enjoy being silly and goofy with your kids. Lighten up. Life is too short to get all twisted over a bunch of garbage; so just laugh it off. I am so thankful my husband taught me this 9 years ago.  I was so uptight and worried about so much, it's a wonder I enjoyed much of anything!  Pull up some funny memes, go to you tube, whatever makes you crack a smile, go do it on the daily.

9.  Vitamins/supplements

Obviously work with a Dr. or healthcare professional.  I strongly believe in taking some supplements to stay healthy.  I think vitamin D is super important up here in NY because we never see the sun from October until pretty much May it seems.  I know that omegas help immensely with a lot.  A solid multi-vitamin is also key to staying healthy.  Probiotics have got to be my #1 recommendation if nothing else.  Good gut bacteria is essential and with all of the "food" we eat, it's not always helping our guts.  Find a good probiotic or two and add them into your diet. Kombucha is also really good, along with Kefir.  Even yogurt in moderation is awesome.

10.  Green Tea {matcha}

Since my reflux, I just can't do anything that has a lot of caffeine.  I've always enjoyed green tea, so I usually have a cup of that.  I have however, found a new love: Matcha.  I've talked a lot about it lately, but I can't stop raving about it.  It gives me a slow released energy all day. No high. No crash. It's just a subtle calming energy.  Google it; there are TONS of benefits!  Sure I love one from Starbucks but it is loaded with sugar and it's $$.  Here is my homemade recipe; I ordered the matcha powder from Amazon. 

Currently

Watching Scandal.  I finally got caught up and I'm all like--whaaaa whaaaa?! Oliva Pope.  That apple did not fall far from the tree! I cannot believe she won't just go face the sun with Jake dammit!!!

Reading I finished The Nest, Girl on a Train, and just began Me Before You. 

Packing for Toronto.  It's always a bit of a process getting all of us all packed up and settled.  I worry about silly little details and last time almost forgot to bring the dog to my sister's. I need to make a list.

Cooking whatever is in the cupboards.  I need to do this more often. It's nice to go through and sort out what is expired (ew) and use up what we have.  Otherwise it's autopilot to the grocery store and buying more stuff.   Fish sticks for dinner, okay honey? 

Loving the sunshine.  It's so nice to take the kids out and play in the sandbox, on the grass, on the back deck, anywhere but in the house!

Disliking rude relatives.

Listening I'm loving these dance songs.  Jt brings a smile to anyone's face and I'm loving the Caribbean feel of Drake's One Dance.

Workouts I've done some barre legs, piyo and today I'm hoping to do my arms. Maybe a TIU workout is in order. Love those girls!

Dreaming up our home!  Hubby met with our builder and we have some action steps to take with our land!  I'm so stinking excited.

Planning June is almost here and the crazy that is!! I'm hoping to set up some fun play dates with friends so the tent sale doesn't drag on and we don't get too lonely without daddy for a few weeks while he makes that money.

Drinking my monthly Club W wine shipment!  I love that I can pick out 4 bottles, get free shipping and they arrive at my door.  You can earn referral credits, review wine and get credits and the wine is actually really good!

Enjoying time with my kids.  I feel like for awhile I felt a little lost, or like I should be doing more.  More of what I never really knew, but right now I'm really just into being mommy.  I know I only have the Summer left with Brooke home like this all the time, and pre-school will start (which will be wonderful for all of us!) but I'm soaking it all in.

Excited for Summer.  That said, I have so many ideas for us to do!  The house may be hard to keep clean, because I want to get out and explore when the weather gets hot! I want to find more nature hikes, playgrounds, beaches, you name it! How many spray parks can we hit up?  Can we make new friends with a pool? hehe  

Lust List Spring '16

Happy Thursday!

I'm SO over this snow/ice/sleet junk sitting outside our windows.

I really want the weather to warm up so we can take long walks, play outside & just enjoy the sun.

Until then...

I've got quite a list growing in my mind of some very pretty things I would love to own!  

A girl can dream, right?

Lululemon-
I haven't bit the bullet to try these bad boys out yet.  I hear they're the most comfortable yoga pants ever, but I wouldn't know!

Summer Tote-
I mentioned my green tote yesterday, but I really love the geo cork look!  It's the same style, but has a different color/texture.  I love that I can stuff a bunch of baby stuff, plus my stuff & toddler. It's the perfect size mom tote!

Apple Watch-
I kind of want a fit bit, but Nikki said this would be better!
I would like to see my movement, sleep patterns, calories burned?
I need to do some more research.

New Nikes-
It's been a year and I really would like a new pair of kicks.
These hot pink do not come in my size 9, or they'd be purchased already.
Great price!

Ipad mini-
I love my iphone 6 plus and I have the ipad 2, so this is so not necessary. However, I would love a mini as it's not as bulky as my iPad.


What's on your lust list??

WILW [hello blog makeover!]

What I'm loving Wednesday!

How about my new blog look?? I am so happy with it!  I'm legit obsessed with white, pink & pops of gold/glitter.  I really wanted to simplify my blog and just have it look a little more sophisticated. I hadn't changed it up in 2 years, so it was time. Thanks so much Erin!


I'm loving two things about this photo--1.) The kids playing together.  They have their moments, but it's just so cute!! 2.)  They are sort of cleaning?! Yay!  Blurry picture, but man these two are something else. I love them to pieces!

I'm loving my monthly acupuncture appointment.  It really helps me unwind and focus on me.

I am love/hating this workout! My calves are killing me this morning!! It's only 22 minutes, but oh my goodness, it's not easy!  I also adore my coach and her fitness group.  I have no desire to be a BB Coach, but it's fun to play each day and get to know others & their goals.  Jenn originally shared Shakeo with me 3 years ago, but I decided to do the whole Advo thing...and now I am just doing this.  It's fun to change things up!  She is so inspirational to see her posts every day; mama of two little boys and working so hard.  It's hard not to want to be like her!

I'm loving my super bright green purse. I've been using it on the reg, and I get so many compliments! I used my hostess half off credits to purchase this beauty and love it. I cannot get enough Stella & Dot!  Shelby is always stylin me so well!

Weekly Workouts & Menu

OK.  So my 'break' wasn't much of break, but I feel ready and have lots to write about, so write I shall!  I believe I have come up with a decent calendar of writing ideas and although I may not get to write every post, I have a solid foundation of what I would like to say and use this blog for...so stay tuned!! I hope you enjoy what I plan on using this blogging space as.

Sundays I'm going to stick with trying to keep weekly menu ideas (it really helps me stay on track!) and I'll even share some of my past week eats too.  

This weekend I was so lucky to get some much needed girl time in with some good friends.  Carbs/coffee and girlfriends seem to go hand in hand, am I right? ;) 

It's not often I get to enjoy days like this, so when I do? I cherish them!!

Easy tip:  

Buy butternut squash already cut up.  Toss with sea salt & evoo and roast in a 400 degree oven for about 30 minutes.  I sprinkle it in salads, eat it by itself, or you could throw it in a soup & pureé!  Baby boy loves it and he gobbles it right up.

Tuesdays date night was so fun & I totally didn't take any photos because we were sitting at a table with others and I really just devoured the food.  The drinks were too strong, but super fun to try (sips) of.

I'm such a wino and bourbon and cognac just aren't my thing.

I did enjoy this cup of champagne punch.  It was the only drink I really could drink!

My menu this week is fairly simple.  My goal is to eat 90% clean all day, and then eat with Joe for dinner. I hate "dieting" but I do need to up my veggies and lean proteins during the day.  As you will see, I have pasta on my menu a few times. I find nothing wrong with a little pasta; I don't like or use whole wheat, but I do limit how much I eat.  Everything in moderation.



Can I tell you how excited I am to try this Mango Lime sauce out? It's so yummy!!

As for workouts last week?

Kind of lame...

Tues- Upper Fix
Weds- Walked/pushed the kids in the stroller 2.5 miles.


Up this week?
Today (Sunday) I took a nice long almost 2 hour walk with a friend and pushed Bradley.  Tomorrow I am scared out of my mind to start this:

I hope I don't die. Haha.  22 minutes, how bad could it be?  #famouslastwords

What's on your menu & workout plan?

Stay beautiful xox