[my week in workouts | week eight]

How crazy is it that it's week 8 already? Time flies for sure. How crazy is it that it's New Year's Eve? All around time has flown this year. Or maybe I've just been busy. We'll get to my resolutions later, but for now, here's last week's workout. It sucked a bit that I was sick on Christmas and my first day at my new job, [more details on that later too], but I had to not work out those days, I literally couldn't. This week has already been so much better, i'm in such a good place physically and mentally. My motivation is great and i'm on such a roll. I'm so glad to be ending the year this way and to be starting 2015 so well!

My workout:

I hope everyone has a wonderful New Year's Eve!!!

"life is very short. insecurity is a waste of time."

- diane von furstenberg

[my week in workouts | week seven]

Well folks, GET EXCITED. I start my new job Monday!!! More details to come on being a working woman again, but first: this week in workouts. My lack of workout on Monday was because we were traveling 13 hours to get to Miami and Thursday I just didn't have time. Other than that, I'm loving being back at my gym and getting into something of a routine. I'm really excited for this week, since I remembered I got a FitBit Flex a few months ago and never learned to use it. I set it up and will start using it this week to keep track of my steps and hopefully my food and water intake.

You'll see a huge difference between this week and the one before it, and things are only going to improve from here!

Have a good week all! Happy Holidays!

"she believed she could, so she did."

- anonymous

[my week in workouts | week six]

Let me start by saying I'm hugely disappointed in myself and my results. My trip to Tennessee ended up being much more of a hiatus than I'd originally intended and the weather definitely meant more coffee, hot chocolate, and hearty (aka caloric) soups. Unlike in the past, I didn't gain weight (YAY ME) but I definitely made ZERO progress. It's crazy to think I'm six weeks in and still not noticing any difference.

That said, I'm not giving up, still working and not letting the bad days make things worse. Here's week six.

Can you tell I tried to overcompensate when I finally got a chance to workout?

"will it be easy? nope. will it be worth it? absolutely."

- anonymous

[my week in workouts | week five]

I will go ahead and say I'm in Nashville right now! Loving it of course, as I knew I would. That being said, this weekend was a rather lethargic weekend. You'll notice there was no workout on Thursday, because I was running errands and driving to Nashville, then Saturday and Sunday were touristing days, so we walked around but I didn't have a formal workout.

Seeing a new city and trying amazing restaurants isn't always conducive to great workouts or healthy meals, but I'm trying to do it all! Now to tackle these holidays and family dinners! Good luck to you all too!

"stay patient and trust your journey."

- anonymous

[thankful]

Looking back on last week, I'm feeling extra thankful today. I've gotten to spend some quality time with family and friends in some of my favorite places. I don't like to use the word 'blessed', but i'm feeling that way right now. But I'm just going to stick with thankful. Here's a snapshot into what I mean.

Me at Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Fortunately for me, my house in TN is only 30 minutes away from the park.

Generic Thanksgiving picture. The turkey burnt on the outside but the actual meat was delicious. We had ham, turkey, cranberry sauce, mac'n'cheese, mashed potatoes, black beans, brussel sprouts and asparagus. Soooo good. 

Generic Thanksgiving family picture at my house. 

Me at Douglas lake. The clay i'm standing on is underwater during the summer, but they control the dam so the water level is low in the winter. It's nice to feel that small. 

All in all, I had an amazing Thanksgiving week and am having another great one this week. Hope you all are too!

"i have decided to stick with love. hate is too great a burden to bear."

- martin luther king, jr. 

[my week in workouts | week four]

Full disclosure: I am currently ashamed to be posting this. I hate what it says. BUT. I'm keeping up with my plan and will continue to be accountable in posting my workouts and progress. Obviously, this was a hard week to stick to workouts. My body was adjusting to Tennessee weather [which basically means cold mornings sleeping in] and it was also Thanksgiving week. Regardless, those are not excuses for me only getting 3 days of workout in [insert monkey emoji with hands over his eyes].

Despite my failure to put in the work, I will say that I succeeded in staying healthy so far. It's been hard, but I've been eating healthy ever since I got here. The best part of all is the change in attitude I have at where I am. One month ago, I would've had so much self-hatred for not having a productive or 'fit enough' workout this week. Not today. Today, I'm accepting. I'm realizing that life happens and choosing not to waste my time and energy being mad at myself. Instead, I'm learning and gearing up to adapt and change my behavior so I don't repeat my previous mistakes. So here's my horrible week in workouts from last week. Here's to improvement.

"the temptation to quit will be greatest just before you are about to succeed."

- chinese proverb

[holiday gift guide: for him]

Just as I promised, I have an affordable [under $50] gift guide for those men in your life. Now, this can be your brother, boyfriend, dad, grandpa, etc.; there's something for everyone. Hopefully this is helpful and for those of you going out, good luck on Black Friday!!!

[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14]

"there's some people in this world who you can just love and love and love, no matter what."

- john green

[my week in workouts | week three]

So, saying this past week has been a hiatus from my intense workouts is an understatement. Everything was going fine until Wednesday, when we drove 13 hours from Miami to Knoxville. That didn't exactly leave much time to work out. I got some exercise in on Thursday, but Friday we touristed around all day so I didn't get a chance to work out then either. And then when Sunday came around, it was quite the Sunday, so I was just lounging around.

I WILL make this week a more productive one, even though it's Thanksgiving!

Have a good week all!

"life's under no obligation to give us what we expect."

- margaret mitchell

[turkey chili]

Winter is definitely soup and chili season, but also weight gain season. In an effort to enjoy all those delicious foods but not gain the weight, I'm taking on some of my favorite meals and trying a healthy twist on them. I've got a whole 'clean eating' board on Pinterest, to pull ideas from. This one is basically my spin on this Turkey Chili recipe I found. 

The process is actually really simple, only taking a little over an hour to have this dish ready to serve and eat! I made it on a sauce pan, because I don't have a crock pot or slow cooker, but that would probably work too. Here's a step-by-step look at the process. 

My ingredients: I bought the turkey specifically for this, but surprisingly I had the rest in my kitchen! I used 1 can of kidney beans, 2 cans of diced tomatoes (next time I plan to use fresh tomatoes), 1 onion, 6 cloves of garlic, 1 green bell pepper, some oregano, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.

Step 1: Sauté the chopped garlic and onions. 

Step 2: Add meat til it browns, then add the rest of the ingredients and stir. 

Step 3: Stir every 10-15 minutes for an hour and voila! It's ready!

Printable version:

Enjoy!

"the desire to reach for the stars is ambitious. the desire to reach hearts is wise."
- maya angelou

[my week in workouts | week two]

After the first week of documenting my workouts I really started to feel more motivated to exercise. Oddly enough, it was like a positive assignment/homework I wanted to do. So I'm going to keep at it. The amazing thing is how much power we have over our bodies. Ultimately, our bodies are our works of art, we can change them [pretty much] as much as we want to. It's crazy how even after that first week, going into the second week, my body felt so different. On leg day my knees felt stronger (I have knee problems, no surprise there), on tricep day my biceps and triceps already started to look a tiny bit more defined, and it's all a direct result of my actions and choices. Sitting here after week two, I'm feeling so much better and ready to push that much harder!!!

I also thought it'd be beneficial this time around to explain some things, since I abbreviated them:

• Leg press sets: I do the leg press machine, 15 reps with my knees and feet together, 15 in a regular squat, 15 as wide as I can. That's 1 set, which I do as many times as I can.
• Plank circuit: To strengthen my abs and lower back, I do three plank sets. Each set is: 10 seconds regular plank, 10 seconds on one side, 10 seconds the other side. 
• Step workout: I basically did random stuff on the step, working a little cardio into my leg routine.
• #SweatTour2014 is a workout created and taught by Dawn Archer. Her story is incredible, and she has traveled to 47 states so far teaching this class in random parking lots, parks, and gyms. The workouts are different each time and last about an hour. Honestly, I was surprised how much it kicked my butt. 

All in all I'm noticing some awesome changes in my body and am looking forward to week three!!! Get to sweatin' y'all!

"you'll turn out ordinary if you're not careful."

- ann brashares

[holiday gift guide: for her]

I never thought I would become this person, but I'm already starting to listen to Christmas music. I know, how annoying. Thanksgiving hasn't even happened yet!!! That being said, I've been getting ready for gift-giving season. Here is a small group of affordable [under $50] gift ideas for an women you'll be gifting. Don't worry, I'll have one for men soon!

[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15]

Happy shopping!

"happiness doesn't result from what we get, but from what we give."

- ben carson

[my week in workouts]

Something I've been trying to do recently is document my workouts; it keeps me more accountable and helps me gauge my progress. Obviously I pull inspiration and ideas from all kinds of sources, from Instagram accounts to Pinterest workout ideas. This was my week in workouts from last week, and Sunday was my rest day. Here's to seeing some improvement!

"remember the girl who gave up? nobody else does either."

- anonymous

[CMA review & commentary]

I am huge awards show fan. I love seeing artists from different genres or generations come together to award each other and perform for all of us. Plus, I love seeing what they wear. Last night's 48th Annual CMA Awards were no different. Hosted by Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley (this is their seventh go-around), this year's lineup included a wide range of presenter's and performers. Here's a look at my commentary and review from the night. (Kind of a peek into my brain if you will.)

picture from CMA World (not mine).

Opening performance: Kenny Chesney – American kids. (He's always great.) That was followed by Meghan Trainor / Miranda lambert – All About That Bass…awkward but I liked it? (Still not sure how I feel). 

Carrie & Brad had some introductory banter:

• Awkward George Strait song? (George can say he's going to retire a million times, he'll return a million and one.) 
• Awkward quarantine Ebola song? (we all knew that was coming)
• PPTSD: Post Partum Taylor Swift disorder…”New York’s gain is Nashville’s loss, look’s like we’re gonna have to shake it off.” (is it a loss though???)
• Can’t joke about Renee because she might be here, she’s a master of disguise. (not gonna lie, I laughed)

Single of the Year –  Presented by Steven Tyler (he is a badass). Automatic by Miranda lambert. (She didn’t look genuinely happy to have received it at first. Also is it me or do she and Blake never kiss on the mouth in public? Trouble in paradise or they don’t like PDA?)

*PERFORMANCE: Lady Antebellum – Bartender. Hillary's glitter / shimmer leggings were fabulous!

*PERFORMANCE: Florida Georgia Line – Dirt. (I like them and have seen them in concert, but they both sounded like they were sick. Tyler’s voice was super nasal and Brian’s was really weak.)

*PERFORMANCE: Keith Urban – Somewhere in My Car. (Does he age? I don’t think so. That hair has got to go though.)

Song of the Year – Presented by Darius Rucker and Tim Tebow. Kacey Musgraves – Follow Your Arrow. (I LOVE her and am so happy for her...but why was Tim Tebow there? Ew.)

*PERFORMANCE: The Band Perry – Gentle On My Mind. Kimberly Perry’s voice just gets better with time. Plus, only at a country music awards show can a woman sing a song with an acoustic guitar and gorgeous glittering black gown. 

*PERFORMANCE: Kacey Musgraves & Loretta Lynn – You’re Looking at Country. Sweet Loretta Lynn looks precious in her glitter gown. Reminds me of something Dolly would wear. 

New Artist of the Year - presented by Lee Brice & Brantley Gilbert: Brett Eldredge (genuine shock and happy surprise. Precious America.)

*PERFORMANCE: Jason Aldean – Burnin’ It Down. (I like Jason but this performance felt like a dud.)

Carrie & Brad: baby gifts from Brad (baby shower), since he revealed the baby's gender earlier in the show. 

*PERFORMANCE: Little Big Town - Day Drinkin’. Then Ariana Grande came on stage and they sang Bang Bang together. I didn’t want to like Ariana Grande but she sounded amazing live.

*PERFORMANCE: Tim McGraw – Shotgun Rider. He looks a little skinny, but as usual, Tim is fabulous.

Vocal Duo of the Year – presented by Brett Eldredge, Brandy Clark and Kip Moore: Florida Georgia Line (no shocker there, yet they were both still nervous two years in a row.)

*PERFORMANCE: Dierks Bentley – Drunk on a Plane. (Good, not much to say).

Album of the Year – presented by Connie Britton & Martina McBride: Platinum by Miranda Lambert. She said she poured her heart into this one more than her others and seemed genuinely thankful. (I love her.)

*PERFORMANCE: Brad Paisley –Perfect Storm. (Good, same ol' Brad.)

*PERFORMANCE: Blake Shelton & Ashley Monroe – Lonely Tonight. (my only thought: Ashley is Miranda’s friend…why didn’t Miranda sing it? Ashley's dress though...super sexy.)

*PERFORMANCE: Carrie Underwood – Something in the Water. She’s such a commanding performer, there is literally nothing else to say, she has got to have the best female voice in country music. 

Vocal Group of the Year – presented by Lucy Hale and Dan & Shay: Little Big Town. (no surprise there, they're having a moment.)

*PERFORMANCE: Luke Bryan – Roller Coaster. (It was good, but Luke's always good.)

*PERFORMANCE: Miranda Lambert & Little Big Town – Smokin’ and Drinkin’. (I had never heard that song but really like it!)

*PERFORMANCE: George Strait & Eric Church – Cowboys Like Us. (I love Eric Church and love how excited he gets when he performs, and how stoked he was to be up on stage with George Strait.)

Male Vocalist of the Year – presented by Trisha Yearwood: Blake Shelton. Not surprised though, but I love him.

*PERFORMANCE: The Doobie Brothers ft. Hillary Scott, Jennifer Nettles, and Hunter Hayes – Listen to the Music. (Sounded great! I love Jennifer and Hillary's voices mixed in with The Doobie Brothers.)

Female Vocalist of the Year – presented by Lily Aldridge & Sam Hunt: Miranda Lambert. She was very thankful, and, as usual, cried. 

Entertainer of the Year – presented by Garth Brooks: Luke Bryan. (I love how he hugged his wife for a solid minute.)

Now you all know what it's like inside my brain during these things...

Happy Thursday everyone!

"our genre was built on simple, good songs about real life and that's what this was."

- kacey musgraves

[on my radar: utility jackets]

I am loving utility jackets right now. Maybe it's because I can't let go of my utility vest and want the same look to tide me over for cooler weather. Maybe it's because I really like the balance between something girly with something a little more grunge. Whatever it is, I had been searching far and wide for utility jackets when I came across one at Forever 21. And then another. And another. Well, I don't know which I'll choose, but I'm loving them all right now. Here are my top six!

[ONE][TWO][THREE]

[FOUR][FIVE][SIX]

Happy Monday everyone!

"style is knowing who you are, what you wanna say, and not giving a damn."

-orson welles

[pumpkin carving in honor of halloween]

Happy Halloween loves! In honor of today, I'm posting about this year's family pumpkin carving night. We've been carving pumpkins since before I can remember, and this year was no different. We always go to the same patch, one hosted by our local Methodist Church* and each pick a pumpkin to go home and carve. Then we clear the whole kitchen, create organized chaos with pumpkin guts and knives and carving utensils everywhere and work for an hour or two to create our individual masterpieces! I actually wasn't home in Knoxville last year, so being able to be there with my two sisters and parents meant the world.

[the patch]

[me, my mom, and Erika with our pumpkins]

[my creation!]

[from LtoR: Erika's, mine, my mom's, and Karla's]

[because we all know I love a good selfie...Karla and I]

Happy Halloween!!!!

*Disclaimer: I am not Methodist, do not attend this church and am not endorsing this church. I just get my pumpkins there. They are nice people.

"every day is halloween isn't it?"

- tim burton

[not watson's]

I love Market Square in Knoxville. It is that town square you see in movies, full of restaurants, bars, and boutiques, that also hosts town events and farmer's markets. Every now and again, a new restaurant opens and I make it my mission to taste test it. This past trip, I made a visit to Not Watson's, a new restaurant and bar in Market Square. I hadn't really heard much about it so I used a free afternoon to grab a quick lunch.

It was 4:30 p.m. on a Wednesday, so I was the only customer. Obviously, they sat me very quickly, and I realized I knew one of the waiters, so I instantly felt at home. The menu was limited but I realized they have a niche: hot dogs. Looking back I probably should have ordered one, but I was really in the mood for chili so I ordered a cup of chili, which came with 'a surprise' [aka a grilled cheese sandwich - yummy!]. It was actually very good! It had fresh jalapeños on top, adding just the right amount of spice.

All in all, I'll probably visit again. The vibe was very much sports bar and the prices were decent, so I would definitely go there to dinner with friends.

Happy Wednesday all!

"there is no love sincerer than the love of food."
- george bernard shaw

[remedy]

Last week, I set out to do some discovering in Knoxville. One of these discoveries was an easy one, since my friend works there. I had heard about Remedy Coffee from her and from some research I'd done online, so of course I figured I'd give it a try. I was also looking for a quiet place to get some work done outside of my house, and good coffee is always a plus!

Remedy Coffee is a local coffee shop in the Old City, near Downtown Knoxville. It's a non-profit shop and proceeds go to different charities / causes each month, and it's run by a local church. [Let me be clear that I do not push religion on anyone, and I've never been to that church - it's not even my religion.] That being said, any small town shop whose proceeds go to worthy causes is 100% ok in my book.

So here are a few pictures of Remedy, the place I grew to enjoy spending time in. I'll definitely be back next time i'm in Knoxville.

They don't make food in house but local bakers/bakeries do bring things in to sell, so it's a toss up each day! And the baristas are cool about making custom coffees and trying new things. (I had a teddy graham latte one day!)

There's a private room above the actual work area for those who may want more quiet.

And a room in the back with added seating!

Here's to my morning cup o' joe in Miami and a good week for us all!

"when words are both true and kind they can change the world."

- buddha