Shiplap, #DemoDay and Farmhouses - oh my!
If you're like me, you're totally into Chip and Jojo, and the Southern dynasty they've built through their show and Magnolia Market.
Did you know that Joanna also has a blog? Yes, it's true! And yes, I'll wait while you go check it out.
Here's the link.
...
...Insert Elevator Music...
...
Back? Great! Told you I'd wait.
If you didn't see it while you were there, don't miss her Power Balls recipe.
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
Friday, August 7, 2015
Recipe: Guacamole Zucchini Pasta
Welcome back! Hope you've all had a great week.
Today I wanted to share a really simple recipe I made for dinner this week (remember, we are currently on our 21 day sugar detox - post here). It is a great recipe for anyone wanting a light dinner, something healthy, vegetarian, or even vegan! It's also really easy to customize with anything else you want to add - meats, additional vegetables, cheese, you name it.
Today I wanted to share a really simple recipe I made for dinner this week (remember, we are currently on our 21 day sugar detox - post here). It is a great recipe for anyone wanting a light dinner, something healthy, vegetarian, or even vegan! It's also really easy to customize with anything else you want to add - meats, additional vegetables, cheese, you name it.
Monday, August 3, 2015
My 21 Day Sugar Detox
Y'all, it's official. I've lost my mind.
Not only am I totally out of character with my half-marathon training, but now - today - I am starting a 21 Day Sugar Detox (#21DSD). GASP.
For a simple explanation, here are the Six W's of my sugar detox.
Not only am I totally out of character with my half-marathon training, but now - today - I am starting a 21 Day Sugar Detox (#21DSD). GASP.
For a simple explanation, here are the Six W's of my sugar detox.
Wednesday, July 22, 2015
Three Things I've Learned (so far) During My Half-Marathon Training
Hey there!
Long time no see. My fault. Sorry about that.
I thought I'd stop in and give you an update on my half-marathon training. The race is November 14th, so we still have some time (thank goodness).
My training buddy, Stephanie, has been absolutely awesome through the process so far. We are half way through our 5th week of training, and if it weren't for her holding me accountable, I probably would have quit after about 3 days. Seriously.
For those of you in the same boat (don't love running, but are trying to make a habit of it), allow me to share three lessons I have learned so far.
1. Find someone who will hold you accountable.
No, this cannot be yourself or your conscience. For me, it also could not be my husband. I am too good at talking my way out of things with him! And he keeps quiet so that I don't feel badly (smart man). Stephanie was the perfect partner for me for a few reasons: we are on similar fitness levels, we both really want to see it through, and we live in the same neighborhood which makes running together convenient.
2. Invest in key items.
These items may be different for each person. For me, the key items have been a Garmin watch (old model, but can track distance), some running capris (running + shorts = too much rubbing), and a good pair of shoes. I had an employee at Fleet Feet watch my run and measure my feet, which was critical in finding a good pair of shoes. I learned that I overpronate (which basically means my feet turn inward when I run), so I knew to look for a pair of shoes that corrects that issue. In the long run, this should save my feet and my joints!
3. Running is 90% mental.
Spencer used to tell me this all the time, but I just would not believe him. Turns out, he was right (shhh, don't tell him I said that). If I keep a steady pace, it really is a matter of pushing myself to keep going. Of course, if I go too fast, I will certainly tire out. The key is to set a pace (for me it is somewhat slow right now), keep your breathing steady, and tell yourself that longing to quit is all in your head. Because, guess what? It really is!
Are you a runner? What tips can you share with me as I continue my training?
Don't forget to check out this month's Sunshine Sponsor, Danielle! View her blog here.
Until next time - -
Long time no see. My fault. Sorry about that.
I thought I'd stop in and give you an update on my half-marathon training. The race is November 14th, so we still have some time (thank goodness).
My training buddy, Stephanie, has been absolutely awesome through the process so far. We are half way through our 5th week of training, and if it weren't for her holding me accountable, I probably would have quit after about 3 days. Seriously.
For those of you in the same boat (don't love running, but are trying to make a habit of it), allow me to share three lessons I have learned so far.
1. Find someone who will hold you accountable.
No, this cannot be yourself or your conscience. For me, it also could not be my husband. I am too good at talking my way out of things with him! And he keeps quiet so that I don't feel badly (smart man). Stephanie was the perfect partner for me for a few reasons: we are on similar fitness levels, we both really want to see it through, and we live in the same neighborhood which makes running together convenient.
2. Invest in key items.
These items may be different for each person. For me, the key items have been a Garmin watch (old model, but can track distance), some running capris (running + shorts = too much rubbing), and a good pair of shoes. I had an employee at Fleet Feet watch my run and measure my feet, which was critical in finding a good pair of shoes. I learned that I overpronate (which basically means my feet turn inward when I run), so I knew to look for a pair of shoes that corrects that issue. In the long run, this should save my feet and my joints!
3. Running is 90% mental.
Spencer used to tell me this all the time, but I just would not believe him. Turns out, he was right (shhh, don't tell him I said that). If I keep a steady pace, it really is a matter of pushing myself to keep going. Of course, if I go too fast, I will certainly tire out. The key is to set a pace (for me it is somewhat slow right now), keep your breathing steady, and tell yourself that longing to quit is all in your head. Because, guess what? It really is!
Are you a runner? What tips can you share with me as I continue my training?
Don't forget to check out this month's Sunshine Sponsor, Danielle! View her blog here.
Until next time - -
Friday, July 10, 2015
Exciting Week
TGIF!
Hope you all had a great week. The past week has been full of some exciting things. My cousin, Casey, had a baby (a girl! Lilly) last week, and I get to meet her tomorrow! Our friends Joey and Natalie also had a baby girl, Simonne, this week and she's a doll.
Aside from baby news, I have completed my third week of half-marathon training with my friend Stephanie, and we're still goingstrong - well, we're still going. Yay!
Today is an important day here in SC. If you've been under a rock the past couple of weeks, there was a tragic shooting in Charleston last month, and since then a lot of people have been pushing to remove the Confederate flag from the State House grounds.
Hope you all had a great week. The past week has been full of some exciting things. My cousin, Casey, had a baby (a girl! Lilly) last week, and I get to meet her tomorrow! Our friends Joey and Natalie also had a baby girl, Simonne, this week and she's a doll.
Aside from baby news, I have completed my third week of half-marathon training with my friend Stephanie, and we're still going
Today is an important day here in SC. If you've been under a rock the past couple of weeks, there was a tragic shooting in Charleston last month, and since then a lot of people have been pushing to remove the Confederate flag from the State House grounds.
Monday, June 22, 2015
Motivation and Accountability: My 1st Half Marathon
Hey, strangers! Long time no talk.
Today starts the beginning of a new journey for me. One that will involve willpower, accountability, mental and physical strength, and lots of hydration.
I, my friends, am beginning training for a half-marathon. That's right. 13.1 miles of running. Running from nothing, towards nothing, with nobody chasing me.
Today starts the beginning of a new journey for me. One that will involve willpower, accountability, mental and physical strength, and lots of hydration.
I, my friends, am beginning training for a half-marathon. That's right. 13.1 miles of running. Running from nothing, towards nothing, with nobody chasing me.
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Tips for Easing Anxiety
It's not something I blog about regularly, but I currently take medication for anxiety. (Who's with me?!) For me, a panic attack was the last straw, and I asked Spencer to make a doctor's appointment for me. I have felt quite a difference, but I still have days (or weeks) where I can get overwhelmed, anxious, and lose perspective. During these times, I have to find a way to cope. I have developed a few mechanisms that seem to work well for me, and want to share these in case any of you are experiencing these same feelings and need some help.
1. Deep breathing.
I know it sounds cliche, but it really does help. The trick, however, is to do it correctly. When you inhale, do so through your nose. Also, your stomach and chest should be taking in oxygen with each inhale and in turn should expand (you should see your chest visibly move). When you exhale, do so through your mouth, slowly, and try to exhale all of the air from your lungs. This will take longer than a typical inhale+exhale. If you are in a position where you can also close your eyes as you do this, do it. Try not to focus on anything but your breathing.
2. Take a break.
Briefly remove yourself from whatever is seeming to trigger your anxiety at the moment. If it's work, kids, a public place - get yourself alone for a few minutes. Take a walk, close your eyes, shut your door, listen to a song - find something to do that can clear your head and calm you down. There have been instances when my anxiety returns when I put myself back into the situation, but even a moment away is helpful.
3. Put things in perspective.
Often times, we get so wrapped up in our current situations that we forget what is truly important. Is work overwhelming you? Ask for help and remember that the projects will pass and so will the day. Are your kids running wild? Imagine them in 5 or 10 years, and how much you'll miss the craziness - even in the insane moments! A trick I've found helpful is to talk to Spencer - he is great at talking me down, and reminding me that what I think is a huge deal and completely overwhelming, is in fact not very important in the grand scheme. It's wonderful to have someone I trust who can be completely honest with me, while also letting me talk and express my feelings.
I'd love to hear any other suggestions, tips, or tricks you have on reducing anxiety. This seems to be an ever-increasing topic among people, so anything you can offer would be helpful to me as well as to others reading!
------------------------------------
Definitely hop on over and check out the second part of the "Making Pinterest Work For You" series by Love the Here and Now is live TODAY - Finding and Joining Group Boards. Don't miss it!
------------------------------------
AND - I'll be popping in on Feast + West tomorrow with a travel guide, so don't miss it!
Until next time - -
1. Deep breathing.
I know it sounds cliche, but it really does help. The trick, however, is to do it correctly. When you inhale, do so through your nose. Also, your stomach and chest should be taking in oxygen with each inhale and in turn should expand (you should see your chest visibly move). When you exhale, do so through your mouth, slowly, and try to exhale all of the air from your lungs. This will take longer than a typical inhale+exhale. If you are in a position where you can also close your eyes as you do this, do it. Try not to focus on anything but your breathing.
2. Take a break.
Briefly remove yourself from whatever is seeming to trigger your anxiety at the moment. If it's work, kids, a public place - get yourself alone for a few minutes. Take a walk, close your eyes, shut your door, listen to a song - find something to do that can clear your head and calm you down. There have been instances when my anxiety returns when I put myself back into the situation, but even a moment away is helpful.
3. Put things in perspective.
Often times, we get so wrapped up in our current situations that we forget what is truly important. Is work overwhelming you? Ask for help and remember that the projects will pass and so will the day. Are your kids running wild? Imagine them in 5 or 10 years, and how much you'll miss the craziness - even in the insane moments! A trick I've found helpful is to talk to Spencer - he is great at talking me down, and reminding me that what I think is a huge deal and completely overwhelming, is in fact not very important in the grand scheme. It's wonderful to have someone I trust who can be completely honest with me, while also letting me talk and express my feelings.
I'd love to hear any other suggestions, tips, or tricks you have on reducing anxiety. This seems to be an ever-increasing topic among people, so anything you can offer would be helpful to me as well as to others reading!
------------------------------------
Definitely hop on over and check out the second part of the "Making Pinterest Work For You" series by Love the Here and Now is live TODAY - Finding and Joining Group Boards. Don't miss it!
------------------------------------
AND - I'll be popping in on Feast + West tomorrow with a travel guide, so don't miss it!
Until next time - -
\
Monday, March 16, 2015
A New Beginning
Y'all. I did it. I joined a gym.
I swore up and down after I finally got out of my last gym contract that I would never do that again. But then a coworker sent me a Groupon for half off of a year gym membership. It is a convenient location, and it is less than the amount my firm will reimburse for in a year (a great work perk - gym reimbursement! Part of our healthy living initiative).
So, out of excuses, I bought the Groupon and went yesterday to sign up.
My goal is to go three times a week. I'm going to be pretty lenient with myself right now, since I am starting from the bottom. I'm not going to concentrate right now on burning X amount of calories, doing X days of cardio a week, or doing a certain weight regimen. I really want to first make going 3 times a week a habit, and just doing something. Just get myself moving. The rest will come. Baby steps, right?
I'm going tonight after work, and because my evenings are really limited this week, I'll be attending....wait for it....a 6am spin class tomorrow. Let me write that out, in all caps, to get my point across. SIX O'CLOCK IN THE MORNING. Like, when it's dark out. Pray for me.
So, readers. I need help. Please leave me your tips, advice, and lessons learned regarding living a healthy lifestyle and making being active a habit in your life. I need all of the support I can get!
Until next time - -
I swore up and down after I finally got out of my last gym contract that I would never do that again. But then a coworker sent me a Groupon for half off of a year gym membership. It is a convenient location, and it is less than the amount my firm will reimburse for in a year (a great work perk - gym reimbursement! Part of our healthy living initiative).
So, out of excuses, I bought the Groupon and went yesterday to sign up.
My goal is to go three times a week. I'm going to be pretty lenient with myself right now, since I am starting from the bottom. I'm not going to concentrate right now on burning X amount of calories, doing X days of cardio a week, or doing a certain weight regimen. I really want to first make going 3 times a week a habit, and just doing something. Just get myself moving. The rest will come. Baby steps, right?
I'm going tonight after work, and because my evenings are really limited this week, I'll be attending....wait for it....a 6am spin class tomorrow. Let me write that out, in all caps, to get my point across. SIX O'CLOCK IN THE MORNING. Like, when it's dark out. Pray for me.
So, readers. I need help. Please leave me your tips, advice, and lessons learned regarding living a healthy lifestyle and making being active a habit in your life. I need all of the support I can get!
Until next time - -
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