Showing posts with label Five on Friday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Five on Friday. Show all posts

9.01.2017

Five on Friday

Happy Friday and Labor Day Weekend!

Wow..it feels so good to be back in this space writing again.

Pre-wedding it felt as if all my spare time went to planning, so post-wedding, it felt so good to just be, and do, nothing. I've had enough of nothing, now, though and proclaimed September 1 would be my return to both blogging and exercise!

I was planning a run this afternoon, but it's now raining. At least the blog post has happened, though! Maybe exercise will start on September 2...


My favorite blog schedule was my 10/month posts where I alternated M/W/F one week and T/Th the second. I'm hoping to get back in that groove, but admit it might be tough finding the time to post so frequently. I thought I'd ease in today, though, with a simple Five on Friday!

ONE
Married Weekends
As I shared, it's been so nice to just relax post-wedding. We've fortunately had a pretty low-key summer, which has been nice. We've loved having unplanned weekends and one of our favorite activities has been Saturday mornings at the South of the James Farmer's Market followed by time in the James River with Millie!
 
 
TWO
Blue Door Love
I've shared before that I'd love to paint our front door a fabulous coral color. While I still love the idea of coral, I've really been digging blue lately, too! Our house is painted white brick with black shutters, so would have a similar look to the photos below. Fun front doors are "very Richmond," too. Bryce loves our classic black door, though. To be continued...
 



 
 
 
THREE
New Blue & White
Speaking of blue...I'm so excited to have found some new blue & white for our mantel! I've wanted a matching pair of blue & white vases for our mantel forever, but had struggled to find what I envisioned at the right size, and more importantly, right price point. I was thrilled to have found Frontgate as a new source for my blue & white collection! They were having an awesome sale a couple of weekends ago, so I was able to order 2 of the Ming Vases well discounted from their already reasonable price point below $80! I was so pleased upon their arrival. They have the semi-gray background, which I prefer as I think it looks more antique and authentic than the stark white / bright blue pieces. Those that follow on Instagram, saw my reveal of them on Stories, but I'll have to put together a mantel post for the rest of you on here soon!
 
 
 
FOUR
Crème de la Crumb
While September 1 is my return to blogging and exercise, we marked August 1 as our return to meal planning and regular cooking! I recently discovered the blog Crème de la Crumb and have been working my way through her 30 Minute Meals, pinning all that have sounded good. So far we've tried her Chicken Taco Marinade (and topped them with avocado, peach salsa, and cheese) and her Creamy Pesto Chicken Lasagna Rolls. Both have been really good and Bryce especially loved the lasagna rolls! I will share that the lasagna rolls took us longer than 30  minutes, though. I doubled the recipe however (using a rotisserie chicken), as well as added a bag of chopped spinach to the filling, and we were able to freeze 12 rolls that will provide us with 3 more dinners! I'm going to mix those up by topping them with different sauces. I think using jarred spaghetti sauce will make for a super easy meal one night and an alfredo sauce would also be delicious!
 
 
 
FIVE
My new favorite tee!
I'd been eyeing this peplum tee online for a while! It's under $40 and super cute! That being said, we have been trying to be super budget conscious post-wedding. I finally decided I needed to treat myself and bit the bullet! I bought this tee just a few weeks ago and have already worn it multiple times! It is oh so soft and just easy to wear. In fact, I loved it so much that I went back and bought it in gray, too! It comes in a long sleeved option, too, which is perfect for the upcoming cooler months!
 
 
What's been on your mind lately?
 
Any fun Labor Day plans?
 
We have plans with friends on Sunday, but otherwise, are just going to relax!
 
Have a great weekend!



9.30.2016

Five on Friday

Happy Friday readers!

Is it just me, or has this week felt like the longest ever?

It has been raining here pretty much nonstop since Monday night which has certainly put a damper on things...it looks like the weekend ahead should be clear, though!

Today I'm linking up with the lovely Five on Friday ladies!

ONE
The cover of this month's House Beautiful


If the weather doesn't take a turn for the better and things stay gloomy outside, I wouldn't mind curling up with this latest issue of House Beautiful! That kitchen...mega swoon! I majorly need that island in my life...and those pendants. Speaking of kitchens, Bryce finally agreed to paint our cabinets white, something I've dreamed of for years! As long as I agree to keep our front door black, he's okay with us doing the interior painting projects I've been wanting for quite some time! I'm not sure how quickly we'll get around to it, as the house needs a few other things worked on first, but I am documenting it here as proof to hold him accountable to our agreement! 

TWO
Chris Stapleton



Last week we were listening to Van Morrison radio while cooking dinner, and the station was killing it! Several Chris Stapleton songs played during the course of the evening and I think he now counts as my new music obsession. Are you a fan?

THREE
Fall Fashion



I am seriously struggling with the fact that fall weather isn't quite here yet. It finally feels cool enough today that I'm wearing my riding boots. On my fall wish list this year is: a plaid, non-blanket, scarf, a cream colored Patagonia vest, and some trendy clogs! What's on yours?

FOUR
Ultimate Fall Salad


Since starting my new job, I've been eating more salads. I pack my lunch most days, rather than going out or home, and have been trying to make big salads that I can eat throughout the week. I am dying to make this Ultimate Fall Salad with kale, butternut squash, and farro! I think some crispy prosciutto would also be a great addition! What are your favorite salads that stay good throughout the week?

FIVE
This Photo

Credit: J&D Photography

How gorgeous is this sneak peek of my UVA bestie Anna's wedding!? I can't wait for all the pics to be revealed in the next few months! Standing by her side all weekend was so special and it was an incredible weekend! I can't wait to share more details with you!

What's on your mind this Friday?

Fun weekend plans?

Does it feel like fall where you are?

Have a great weekend!

6.24.2016

Five on Friday

Happy Friday, readers!

How are things going?

I'll be the first to admit, I've hit the summer blogging slump. On top of that, things are gearing up at work. Fall is our busiest time of year and now we are starting to get busy with preparations for the upcoming season.

I am glad to tune in today, though, linking up with the 5 on Friday ladies!

ONE

Like probably all of you, I also love the off-the-shoulder trend and have been on the hunt for a top that I love...that doesn't break the bank. I've found it in this top! It actually reminds me a lot of this top that I fell in love with, but was way out of my price range with a tag of $395! I love loose, flowy tunics, and this has a similar feel! I also love this barely there salmon color! It also comes in white, a pale blue stripe, and a dark blue stripe. I have a 20% off code right now, which brings this shirt in as a steal at under $60. You can get your own code, by completing this brief survey. What summer trends are you loving?


TWO


I try to not share things here on the blog that I can't link back to an original source, but this pin was too good not to share. Those who follow along on Insta, know that I've caught the running bug. For the last month and a half, I have been running every 2-3 days, a minimum of 3 times per week. I have always said "I am not a runner" but have finally reached a point that I crave my runs. I've been using the Running for Weight Loss app, which is an interval training program. I started at the beginner level and in the beginning, it was mostly just walking and running. Now I am doing mostly running and sprints. Toward the very last leg of the workouts, I find myself at a point (typically after a tough uphill sprint), where I just want to stop and walk. At that point, I just repeat to myself in my head over and over, "Running slow is better than walking." You can imagine, therefore when I saw this pin, it really resonated. Now I just need to get my diet in shape! What are your best motivators to stay fit?

THREE


I can't get enough of this "Head Over Boots" song by Jon Pardi. It is so cheesy, but I love it! I always find myself listening to country more in the summertime. What have you been listening to lately?

FOUR


I can't believe that 4th of July is just next weekend! Time, as always, is flying! Earlier this week, we had dinner with Bryce's mom and we discussed coming up with some creative blueberry cocktails for the holiday, as the blueberry bushes at the river are overflowing with berries. I couldn't resist going to Pinterest for some inspiration, and think the champagne cocktail pictured above sounds like a winner! I also will likely be making my Patriotic Popcorn (recipe here). What are your 4th plans?


FIVE


I first came across Bradley of the blog Luella & June on Instagram here. I was immediately drawn to her preppy, punchy style! I still follow along mostly on Insta, but also like perusing her blog for fashion eye candy! If only I had an unlimited budget to fill my closet with all of her beautiful pieces...do you follow Bradley? Any other favorites I should be following?


So there you have it! My 5 on Friday!

What's been on your  mind lately?

Have a great weekend!
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4.22.2016

Five on Friday

Happy Friday readers!

Can you believe May is practically here!?

I hate that April has been a bit of a slow blogging month for me. I am ready for and have high hopes for May!

Today I'm sharing 5 random tidbits for the Five on Friday.

ONE
The Tory Burch Spring Event is here!!!!



My patience has finally paid off...Tory Burch's big spring sale is here! She is offering up to 30% just about everything with code BLOOM. I've known that she usually hosts this sale in April, and often launches it on a Thursday so I have been monitoring my inbox like a hawk! Yesterday my dreams came true and I was finally able to order the much coveted Lexington Wedge! They've already are shipped and are due to arrive on Monday...I can't wait!

And if I wasn't on a budget, I would certainly splurge on more items during the sale. Like these...



and these...



I'm not always a biggest fan of Tory clothing, but she's killing it this season, right? And if I had my bikini bod in shape, I'd be splurging on some swimwear; like these...



And I of course, always swoon over her handbags. Like these...



Have you shopped the sale yet? What did you score?

TWO
Southern....C....Summit!


I can't believe that this time next week, the Southern C Summit and my trip to Charleston will be wrapping up. I don't know what I'm most excited for...the amazing swag bag; drool-worthy welcome brunch; poolside yoga; or books, bites, and sips, just to name a few! Be sure you follow along on Instagram to join me in Summit adventures!

THREE
Chicken Balti Al Fresco


Those that follow on Instagram saw that last night Bryce and I had the first al fresco meal on our patio for the season! It was a gorgeous night and a real treat after Bryce's travels earlier in the week. What made it even better was that Bryce took all the initiative on dinner...he meal planned, shopped, and cooked. I was in heaven! We tried a new recipe Bryce had seen on the show Mind of a Chef and it did not disappoint. You can find the Chicken Balti recipe here.

FOUR
La Croix Cocktails...yes, please!


I've shared my love of La Croix, particularly coconut on social media before. Those of you that follow along on Facebook particularly liked this link that I shared. That being said, I figured I'd share on here, as well: "9 Cocktails Made with LaCroix, a Sparkling Water with a Cult Following." One of my go-tos at home, is simply Coconut La Croix with a lime wedge (or two!) and vodka!

FIVE
Seeking Dry Shampoo Recs!


Cracking up over this eCard right now! I got my hair done early last week and talked to my hair dresser a lot about the appropriate frequency for washing hair. I have fine hair that tends to get oily pretty fast and never quite understood how people could go days between washes. She explained that it's really about training your scalp for less washes. When you shampoo every day, it dries your scalp out, and in turn you produce more oil. I'm on week two of washing my hair every 2-3 days and it's going okay so far. I use baby powder as dry shampoo as necessary, but am thinking I may  need something better, particularly for day 3. Any recommendations?

What's been on your mind lately?

Have a great weekend!
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4.12.2016

Five on...Tuesday!

Happy Tuesday readers!

I hope this email finds you well.

We had a nice, low-key weekend! Bryce is preparing to take the Professional Engineer's exam this Friday, so it's crunch time for him. He spent a lot of time studying, which gave me some much needed down time.

With the start of my new boss last week, things were a bit hectic and I never got around to posting my Five on Friday. That being said, I've decided to post a Five on TUESDAY here for ya today!

ONE


How stinkin' cute is this pineapple handprint craft that popped up on my Pinterest feed? If I was still teaching, I would definitely find an excuse for my kinders to make this before summer; and also think it could be adorable framed as home decor! Mother's Day IS right around the corner! I am definitely going to file this idea in my brain to do with babes of my own some day!

TWO


Have you ever gone in search of a more affordable beauty product only to wind up falling for something even more pricey than what you originally used? Well, ladies, that just happened to me. For almost two years, I used this Kiehl's Line Reducing Concentrate under my Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream, however it's a bit pricey in my opinion. When I last ran out, a few months ago, I decided to not replace it and see how my skin reacted. I've just been using the Ultra Facial Cream, which I absolutely love, but have noticed lately that my skin hasn't been quite as smooth and even. So I wound up on Nordstrom's website last week, searching for an anti-aging product with rave reviews that wouldn't break the bank (By the way, did you know you can search by "Skin Concern!?" How cool!)  I bet you can guess what happened next. I found this Advanced Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate...and it's nearly double what the Kiehl's concentrate cost. BUT, how could I resist when it has a 4.8/5 star rating based on 454 reviews!!! Surely I must have found the fountain of youth! It arrived Friday and I've been using it under my Ultra Facial Cream since then and already can notice that my skin is a bit smoother to the touch. It also has more of a liquid/gel consistency and you only use one drop when applying, so I am thinking it will last far longer than the Kiehl's which is more of a lotion. I will be sure to report back after I've been using it longer. I also was in the market for new eye cream, and wound up with the Lancome Progres Eye Creme, which also has rave reviews. My mom used Lancome products for years. Have any of y'all had a good experience with their skincare line?

THREE
Summer Salads


I read on Emily's blog last week that one of her April goals is to eat a salad for dinner at least once a week. I loved this idea! It seems so simple, but is a great way to cut some calories during the week. Now that warmer weather is mostly here, I tend to enjoy eating light more, rather than craving hearty, warm comfort food as in the winter months. I think we're going to adopt her goal as our own, and I think this 30 Summer Salads list will provide great inspiration.

FOUR


How adorable is this pom pom clutch? I've been eyeing it for weeks now and don't know why I haven't taken the plunge...especially considering it's only $40! I can just imagine pairing it with white jeans and sky high wedges while sipping pina coladas by the beach!

FIVE


And last, but not least, I wanted to share a new blog with you! My friend Meg (who, funny story, I met because she was a blog follower and reached out to help me network during my job search) recently started her very own blog with a girlfriend called Let's Share a Dish....and she's rocking it! Richmond readers especially should check it out, as the main focus is Richmond eats! Since I started following along, my list of restaurants to try is constantly expanding. For example, I am dying to do a picnic dinner one night soon, and I learned in this post that the local Garnett's Cafe will pack your take out order in a picnic basket, upon request! Spring bucket list item!? I think so! They also are mixing in some travel and lifestyle posts, though too, so anyone would enjoy it! Go check out their blog and let them know I sent ya!

What's been on your radar lately?

Have a great day!
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3.25.2016

Five on Friday

TGIF readers!

This week has been a fun, but busy one and I am glad that Friday is here!

Today I'm linking up with the Five on Friday ladies, April, Christina, and Natasha.

ONE
Happy Birthday Bryce!


Today Bryce is 29! I can't believe that when we met nearly 5 years ago, I was just 22 and he was just 24....and now the big 3-0 is right around the corner! Bryce has taught me so much and enriched my life in so many ways. Who knew Bradford watermelons or bees could be so interesting!? I can't imagine a better partner in life and can't wait to see what this next year has in store!

TWO



I recently heard that Southern Proper had launched a women's line. Initially, I assumed that they had come out with tee shirts and accessories for women, but boy was I pleasantly surprised when I took a look! The line contains feminine, preppy, and distinctly Southern pieces to outfit ladies from head to toe! I especially love the Chambray Dessie Skirt and Striped Caroline Flats pictured above!

THREE


Have y'all seen Garden & Gun's version of March Madness? They are pitting Southern College towns against each other. Charlottesville, the home of my alma mater the University of Virginia is currently up against our biggest rival's town of Blacksburg, Virginia to make it to the Final 4! Other towns still in the running are Oxford, MS vs. Tuscaloosa, AL; Fayetteville, AK vs. Baton Rouge, LA; and Athens, GA vs. Clemson, SC. I'm still bitter that my all time favorite BBQ Rodney Scott's didn't make it further in G&G's BBQ Bracket last year, so I'm hoping that Cville will pull through this year, and at the very least, beat out Blacksburg!

FOUR
The perfect boyfriend jeans!


I first mentioned in this Five on Friday post that I had been on the hunt for a pair of boyfriend jeans since the fall. I love the casual, relaxed look of them, but am not a huge fan of distressing....which posed a challenge during my search. That being said, I discovered these "Josefina" Boyfriend Jeans about a month ago and had been stalking them for a sale. Last week, Nordstrom was price-matching and I was able to order them on sale and use a gift card! They came in on Wednesday and I LOVE them! They are a great faded wash with just a little bit of distressing. They do run slightly large, so order one size down. I am a 4/6 and usually a 28 in Sevens, but ordered a 27 in these! They're no longer reduced at Nordstrom, but on sale and still available in a few sizes for 50% off here!

FIVE
A Friday funny!


In honor of Easter and time spent with family this weekend, I couldn't resist this eCard. Happy Friyay!

What's on your radar lately?

Have a great weekend!
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3.04.2016

Five on Friday

Happy Friday chicas!

I hope you've had a great week!

I have the joy of blogging from bed this morning. This afternoon we're leaving for my cousin's DC bachelorette. I had planned to take a half day, but didn't have anything on my calendar for work today, so decided to take some extra "me" time.

Today I'm linking up with the sweet Five on Friday ladies!

ONE


Tomorrow night we're doing the typical black dresses and heels bachelorette look. I don't wear a lot of black and wasn't really feeling any of the few dresses I do have. I was thinking a black romper would be fun, but also didn't want to go out and splurge for what will already be a fun, but expensive weekend. The other day, I decided to pop into Francesca's thinking they might have something to fit the bill that wouldn't break the bank. Boy am I glad I did! I am IN LOVE with this romper that was only $44! I am going to pair it with black tights, these booties, this necklace, and this clutch (on sale with code BIGEVENT16). I am thinking it will look great in the summertime with wedges too! Be sure to follow along on our bachelorette adventures on Instagram this weekend!

TWO
Crazy Spam Comment

Those of y'all that have blogs of your own, know that spam comes through every now and then. A big red flag, is usually when you get a new comment on a really old post. I just have to share one that was left on this post earlier this week. I already marked it as spam, so  you won't see it in the comments section now, but it is too crazy not to share! Do people actually buy this mumbo jumbo?


THREE
Sara Platt Design


I recently stumbled upon Sara Platt Design's instagram through Jana Bek Design (the lady behind those fabulous brushstroke lamps). To me there is nothing quite like finding a good design account to follow and I am enjoying all her interiors eye candy. The space above is perfection! Anyone else good in the interiors world I should be following?

FOUR


Remember these babies? I first mentioned them in my Spring Wish List post LAST YEAR? I love them, want them, need them. I only ever buy Tory Burch shoes on sale, though. And last year, while teaching, I rarely was at my desk; so by the time  I opened the sale email, my size was long gone. I continued to scour the internet looking for them months and months later, never to have any luck. My old tan wedges were ruined 2 summers ago in wet grass at a wedding and I made them last through last summer but now I'm in the market for a replacement pair and these coveted wedges are back. What's a girl to do? Splurge? Wait for a sale and risk missing out again?

FIVE
Spring Tablescape Idea


I'm so ready for spring, especially all the flowers in our yard blooming! Tulips, irises, peonies, and more! I came across this picture on Pinterest and think it is the cutest idea for a spring shower!


What's on your mind lately?

Have any fun weekend plans?

Have a great day!
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2.19.2016

Five on Friday

Happy FriYAY, friends!

Big plans for the weekend? We are headed to a cocktail party tonight and tomorrow I am taking 2 of my former students out to lunch. Otherwise, I am hoping for a relaxing weekend. It's been a busy few weeks and I'm exhausted!

Today I'm linking up with the 5 on Friday ladies and I'm asking for your help!

ONE
Advice Wanted

I am asking for your help with D.C. recommendations. We are headed there in just a few weeks for my cousin's bachelorette party and would love some advice picking spots for brunch, dinner, and going out! I have been to D.C. several times over the years, but never for a "party" weekend, so any help, particularly with the "bar scene" would be greatly appreciated!

TWO
Draper James Francis Floral




I'm a huge Reese Witherspoon fan, so it probably comes as no surprise that I love her new Draper James line. That being said, most her ahhhh-dorable clothes are out of my price range, so I have yet to purchase anything. This print might be worth the splurge, though. I am in love! Which do you like best? I think I'm partial to the skirt!

THREE
Fuming!


Excuse me while I get on my soapbox for a moment, but this news bit from yesterday's Skimm has me SO angry!!! Women already have to face the glass ceiling and often their careers suffer because of motherhood. Now we're spying on them to predict their likelihood of getting pregnant. Not okay! By the way, do you Skimm? The Skimm sends a quick, witty overview of national and world news each weekday, that can be read in under 5 minutes. It's an easy way to stay tuned into current events and there are always links to read more about a piece that interests you. Sign up here.

FOUR


What's the saying? The only things certain in life are death and taxes? Taxes are no fun and I remember my first year of teaching being so upset when the cost to prepare my taxes was more than my actual refund. What a let down! The good news though, is that if you make less than $62,000 a year like me, you can file your taxes online for free thanks to United Way! This link will take you to the site! If you're in the Richmond area, there are also 13 Metrocash sites around town where you can have them prepared in person. 

FIVE
Emoji Love


I almost didn't have a number 5 for ya. I feel like I'm running on empty today! But, I know I'm not the only one that is Emoji obsessed! I constantly wish I had Emojis on my regular keyboard and find myself especially wanting to use them when commenting on blogs. That being said, it cracks me up that Emojis are such a thing in our tech-filled world that people will even wear them! I don't know if I personally would go that far, but the necklace above is pretty cute!


What's on your mind today?

Have a great day!
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2.05.2016

Five on Friday

Happy Friday readers!

Have any fun plans for the weekend?

Tomorrow I am headed to a wedding dress fitting for my cousin. I'm excited to see the dress and get together with all the other bridesmaids before her bachelorette party next month. The rest of the weekend I'm hoping to just relax and get things done around the house.

Today I'm linking up with the lovely Five on Friday ladies.

ONE
Valentine Making Party Prep

You may remember from 2 years ago, that I threw a Valentine Making Party for my girlfriends (full recap here). It was such a fun event and I had hoped to make it an annual thing. Last year I was so overwhelmed with school that I dropped the ball on the party, so I am excited to bring it back this year. Yesterday I grabbed the adorable balloon "BE MINE" banner below (first spotted on Andrea's blog) and plan to hang it in front of the dining room behind the table where all the craft supplies will be set up. They don't seem to sell them online, but mine was found in the dollar section. I also love this XOXO version. This weekend I'm hoping to get the house cleaned and all my crafting supplies prepped for next Friday's party. I also hope to finalize my menu plans for the evening!


TWO
Boyfriend Jeans



I haven't bought a new pair of jeans in a while, largely, because I haven't needed a new pair. Since starting my new job, however, I find myself wearing heels more often for both work and play. I really love the look of slouchy boyfriend jeans with fancy heels, and have been on the hunt for a good pair since this fall. I was really excited to order the Rag & Bone pair (farthest to the left above) on major sale on Black Friday. When they arrived, I loved the fit, but the whiskering at the thighs wasn't the most flattering on me, so I returned them. Does anyone have a recommendation? I'm not the biggest fan of rips or tears, which limits my search a bit. 

THREE
Those that follow along on Instagram may have already heard about Bootay Bag, but I wanted to be sure to share it here! There's nothing like a new pair of undies to put a little pep in your step, so I was excited when Bootay Bag reached out to me requesting a collaboration. For just $12 a month, Bootay Bag will send you 2 fun pairs of panties! I received my complimentary bag on Wednesday and it certainly brightened a dreary, rainy day! The packaging you can see above was very cute and inside were two pretty pairs of lace boy shorts! You can select your panty preferences (Mix It Up, Only Thongs, or Never Thongs) and shipping is always free! I think all the subscription sites available now are a fun way to shop!

FOUR
The BFG...the movie!


Anyone else here a huge Roald Dahl fan? I fondly remember my 2nd grade teacher reading The BFG to my class, she had a big comfy chair and lamp and would turn out the overhead lights for a cozy reading time each day after lunch. Throughout the rest of elementary school, I re-read the book a few times, and even dressed up as Sophie for a book report in 4th grade. If you can't tell, it was one of my absolute favorites and I am really excited that it will be coming to theaters in movie form this summer! I think I'm going to have to find my worn copy and re-read as an adult!

FIVE
Cardio


Y'all know I love a good eCard! Now that I've completed my barre challenge (Woot! Woot!) of 20 classes in 30 days, I want to start adding in some cardio workouts 1-2 times per week in addition to barre. I really want to get back into cycle classes (see one of my first ever blog posts Cycle 101 here), but don't know if I can justify paying for both barre classes and even more expensive cycle classes. The other option, seems to be running...which I've never really been a big fan of. Any running tips? Or at home cardio workouts I should check out?


Have a great weekend!

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