Five Things Friday {3/20}

1. Happy first day of Spring! I’m always confused as to what month it is here because the weather doesn’t change that much but I’m happy for all of you in the chilly states that hopefully things will start to warm up soon. Except for that extra snow today.. but hey, that’s what late March is all about, right? You could always come visit me and we can head to wine country..
   
2. First things first, I tried to burn down the apartment yesterday. Really, I was microwaving popcorn in a regular brown paper bag [as I’ve done 100 times before] and the damn bag caught fire! So instead of immediately pouring water on it, I decided it was a good idea to panic and start yelling “NO! NO! NO!” Genius, people. Pure genius. Don’t worry, I did finally realize that I had water sitting next to me and saved the day.
   
3. I made burrito bowls for dinner the other night and making my own black beans makes all the difference in the world. Have you ever tried it instead of getting canned beans? So much better! I use this recipe and it’s delicious.
   
4. Yesterday was amazingly wonderful [aside from almost burning the place down.] It was practically my day off with only 1 client and I soaked in all of the quiet. Especially after such a long Wednesday, it was much needed.
5. Don’t forget to enter my MealEnders giveaway!

Have a great weekend, friends!

Food for Thought

Any fun plans this weekend?

Happy Birthday, Dad!

Friday the 13th is a good day. This one in particular happens to be the birthday of one of my favorite baseball partners. He got me started on the game when I was just a wee little one and has taken me to countless games over the years.

He taught me home team first [GO O’S!], and with him being from New York, Yankees second [I might lose some followers over that one..]

He also taught me how to drive stick.. if you consider me being 5 years old and sitting in the passengers seat shifting with all of my strength in both hands to be “driving.” I certainly did! It was the best cruising around, listening to my Sesame Street tape and singing along to Cookie Monster’s theme song. And once in a while turning on 105.7 Rouse & Company for some good oldies. What can I say, we were crazy!

He’s the best dad and grandpa we could ask for!

And in just 1 1/2 short weeks, we’ll be cheers-ing it up in California, just like last year. I can’t wait to see my parents again and have some good times celebrating!

Happy birthday, Dad! I love you!

And happy Friday, friends. Have a great weekend!

Five Things Friday {12/26}

Happy Friday, friends! I hope everyone is able to enjoy a nice 4-day weekend!

1. We kicked off our Christmas day with our second annual dim sum brunch at Lai Hong Lounge. We figure there’s a reason Jews eat Chinese food on Christmas, but we wanted to one-up it with dim sum and it’s just so darn good! We kept a bunch of faves from last year, too.
   

   BBQ baked pork buns.. these are my fave!

   

   Dry braised green beans are SO good.

   

   Garlic pea shoots.

   

   Pan-fried mixed mushroom bun.

   

   The prettiest Christmas duck I ever did see.

   

   Duck bun all wrapped up!

2. No trip into Chinatown is complete without a stop at Rogue and a walk by the water.
   

   The Bruery – Seven Swans a Swimming Quad

   

   Such a clear, beautiful [and windy] day!

3. I’ve been powering through some sort of cold or something this week so I’ve spent a lot of time on the sofa the past couple days. I’ve also done my best to make sure I’m getting my greens and proper fuel to get better fast. I decided to whip up this smoothie on a whim and it was awesome!
   Chocolate Cherry Protein Green Smoothie
   
   Ingredients
   – 1/2 bottle Cherry Charge Mamma Chia Energy drink
   – 1 bottle Chocolate Light Core Power
   – 1 scoop Skoop A Game
   – 1/2 english cucumber
   – 1-2 handfuls spinach
   – 4-6 ice cubesBlend it all up and enjoy! It would also be awesome with some frozen cherries in there too.. next time!
4. We watched The Interview on Wednesday night. I’m not really sure what all of the craziness was about but I’d say if you’re in the mood for a silly, chuckle here and there kind of Seth Rogan movie, go for it. Pretty much what you can expect from him. On the flip side, Gone Girl. Watched that last night; you need to watch it, too. Best movie I’ve seen in a while.
5. If you are in the bay area, or know anyone in the bay area, looking for a personal trainer, I’m running a special in January. First 1-hour session is $50, normally $80, and if you purchase a package of 10 sessions, you get 10% off. If you’re not in the bay area but still want to train with me, check out my 4-week personalized training package!

Hope you enjoy your last weekend of 2014!

Food for Thought

Any fun weekend plans?

Five Things Friday {12/12}

I love Friday, don’t you? Weekends are the best and even though I just got back from a relaxing trip home, I’m still looking forward to a relaxing, quiet weekend.

1. I was laughing all day yesterday as I was getting text messages from family and friends asking if we were ok with all of the weather. I know there was flooding in San Francisco, but where I am, it’s just been a steady rain. People have been freaking out over it; schools were closed, we got an email warning from our apartment front desk, and I have to say, it’s no more than what we’re used to in Baltimore. That said, I’m looking forward to the rain subsiding over the weekend [there was talk of wine country!].
   
2. Wednesday, I received a shipment from Sizzlefish. The timing was perfect; we were running low on protein in the house and I got it after a long day at work. Did you know that you can throw the fish right in the oven from frozen? Obviously I was eating fish that night.. the haddock was delicious and so easy. I can’t wait to experiment with some recipes!
   
3. Apparently Hannuka starts next Tuesday. I guess I should probably get on the shtick and get some gifts, huh?
   
4. If you’re looking for a gift, here’s one I didn’t add to my top 5.. purchase a 4-week personalized training program for any of your friends or family!
5. Obviously I can’t let a Friday pass without a picture of my girl! Happy Friday from the little bean!
   

Giveaway Winner

Congrats to Danica for winning my Peanut Butter & Co. giveaway!

Food for Thought

Any fun plans over the weekend?

Five Things Friday + Giveaway {11/14}

Hot damn, it’s Friday! I don’t know the last time I was this excited to see the big Fri. Yea, that’s what I’m calling it now. It’s just been one of those weeks.. you know the kind where nothing goes right? But it’s over and I’m looking forward to weekend festivities!

1. We have a friend visiting this weekend! Ok, he’s really coming out here for work, but the point is he’s here and we get to spend time with him tonight and all day tomorrow. We have big plans for tomorrow; it’s going to be quite the indulgent day, but anytime we have someone visiting, it’s always all about the food and drink. Just ask my parents!
   

   I’m still proud of them for holding their own with all of the drinking we had them doing 😉

2. Speaking of my parents, the countdown till we head back to Baltimore for 2 weeks is in the single-digits! 9 more days, baby! It’s a shame I’m not at all excited.
3. I got to skype with my nugget yesterday and as soon as we turned the cameras on, she walked across the room to get to me [alright, to get to the iPad and her Bubby, but I can pretend!] She just started walking a couple weeks ago and I can’t wait to play with her and see her run [or waddle] around.
   
4. As part of a campaign with Fit Approach, I received 2 bottles of WIN Detergent. It may not sound too exciting to you, but if you’ve ever experienced the post-laundry stinky workout clothes, you should understand my excitement when I tell you that this detergent is specifically designed to remove sweat, oil, and odors from technical athletic/sports apparel. Hooray for no more stinky workout gear! Haha.
   
5. Even more exciting than me getting the detergent is that they’re offering YOU the chance to win your own bottles. Click here to enter for a chance to win!
   Can’t wait? You can also get $1 off your purchase by entering the code WINGIVE1 at checkout.

And with that, I’m off for a fun weekend 🙂

Food for Thought

Any big plans this weekend?

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary shipment of WIN Detergent as a Sweat Pink Ambassador. All thoughts and opinions of the product are my own.

Five Things Friday {9/19}

Yesterday was wonderful. It was a quiet day off from work and was able to just relax and take my time getting things together in hopes to grow my personal training business.

1. Speaking of personal training, I ordered my business cards and I’m pretty excited about how they turned out!
   
2. I also got my official business license in the mail. It’s so weird to me that I’m now a business owner. Whoda thunk?! Now I just have to make that baby business grow!
3. I made a really delicious snack. One of my favorite things about staying home during the week is playing with my food, especially when I want a snack. Instead of reaching for a bar, I check out my fridge and throw together stuff like this..
   
   I microwaved 1/8 cup quinoa with 1 tbsp almond butter for 10 seconds, stirred that together and added 1/2 cup greek yogurt, then topped it with a little NuNaturals cocoa syrup. I’ve had the syrup for probably 2 months now and hadn’t opened it until yesterday. Why did I wait so long?! That was a really tasty snack!
4. Wedding pictures came in from Jessie and Adam’s wedding a few weeks ago. Let’s just say I win.
   
   It’s really a shame I had such a terrible time. Don’t Stop Believin’ is my jam.
5. And speaking of wedding pictures, our album proof was emailed yesterday [I know, it took us foreverrr] and I’m in love!
   
   This was one of our favorite pictures and they made it into a full 2-page spread. I can’t wait for the real deal to come in!

The weather’s been gorgeous here lately and I’m looking forward to soaking up on sun this weekend. Happy Friday, friends!

Food for Thought

Any fun plans this weekend?

Five Things Friday {8/29}

I figure this post is better late than never and this week has been awesome so I thought I’d share a few highlights.

1. Mom and I got to spend time with Jilly Bean. She’s the best.
   

   Look at those big blue eyes!

   

   She looooves her Bubbie!

2. We got to head to our favorite bar, Max’s, where I had one of my favorite beers, Southern Tier Pumking Ale. And we spent time with my “cousy from another Bube” as she put it 😉
   

   Awkward family photo..

   

   That’s better!

   

   Smells like biscuits!

3. I went to a special lunch with my parents.. CRABS!!
   

   When in Maryland..

4. Spent some time at the happiest place on earth.
   

   Another awkward family photo.. that’s what happens when I say “PICTURE TIME!”

5. And extra Jilly Bean time!!
   

   She was digging those Cheerios.

   

   With her papa 🙂

   

   We were super excited about the place mat!

6. Plus an extra.. Mom’s home cooking. Love it.
   

   I could eat like this everyday!

I can’t believe it’s already Friday and this weekend is going to be NUTSO with wedding shenanigans but I’m so looking forward to it. Have a great weekend!!

Food for Thought

What’s your favorite part of going home?

Five Things Friday {7/25}

Happy Friday! Today starts my weekend, Nathan is working from home, and the weather has been gorgeous here so we’re hoping to sneak out mid-day for some sunshine. We’re both ready for some relaxation.

1. Tomorrow we’re headed out on another road trip down to Carmel. It’s one of the places we’ve been talking about exploring but just haven’t made the trip yet. Like I said, the weather’s been beautiful so we’re planning on leaving early, grabbing some lunch when we get there, and laying out on a blanket on the beach. Relaxation at its finest. [Maybe a bottle o’ wine, too?] If you have any suggestions for restaurants or other places to go in Carmel, we’re all ears!
2. I recently received a pair of PRO Compression socks to review as part of the #KeepItTight Campaign with Fit Approach. To be completely honest, I wasn’t sure how much I really expected them to help. But after a bunch of shifts at work this week where I’m on my feet for hours at a time, as well as my workouts, slipping these bad boys on at the end of the day has really made a difference.
   

   With a little O’s action in the background!

   The idea that compression socks increase blood flow to your legs has been proven and dare I say my calves and feet have felt less tired and sore by the next morning. If you want to give them a try for yourself, use code PINK at checkout for 40% off your entire order!

3. I killed the salted caramel brownie brittle. Which, of course, means there was brittle dust at the bottom of the bag just begging to be sprinkled on some PB&J yogurt. Obviously. Best idea ever.
   

   Bloobs, figs, & brittle dust.

   

   Cherries & brittle dust.

4. My Swanson 45th Anniversary giveaway ends Sunday night. Don’t miss out on your chance to win a $45 gift card to get some awesome products!
   
5. Baby girl. [And her mama.] That is all.
   

   1 month till squeezes!

Food for Thought
What are your plans for this weekend?

Five Things Friday {5/30}

Happy Friday! I hope you all had a good week. I’m glad it’s Friday [who isn’t?!]; we’re planning on heading to Prizefighter tonight after Nathan gets off of work. They’re known for their awesome cocktails.. how could we go wrong? I’ve also been in serious study mode recently. Talk about stress, I could use a cocktail!

1. Last week I got the No Rush Hoodie at work. It’s seriously the most comfortable item of clothing I own. Get one immediately. And if you’re in the bay area, come visit me 😉
   

   They should totally have me model for the website.

2. I’ve been making some pretty amazing salads this week [not to brag]. The peanut dressing is killer and paired with sweet potato is out of this world. I’m not exaggerating.
   
   
   I know there are tons of recipes for peanut sauce on the web, but I thought I’d share mine too!
   Peanut Sauce
   Makes 1 serving
   – 1 tbsp peanut butter
   – 1 tsp lite soy sauce [can sub coconut or liquid aminos]
   – 1/2 tsp rice wine vinegar
   – 1/2 tbsp sriracha
   – 1/2 tsp sesame oil
   – Water [add slowly till you reach desired consistency]Yesterday I mixed a can of tuna and a small steamed sweet potato into the dressing before topping my salad. I was so excited to have it for lunch again today. Except then I ate the leftovers. Ha!
3. Am I the only person that gets excited about finding new, fun almond milks?
   

   Delicious. Especially in my coffee!

4. Yesterday I woke up not especially excited to head to the gym. I had cardio and abs on the docket and the thought of running or hopping on the elliptical was just not for me. So I stayed back and went through the Tone It Up Ab Playlist + the new Bikini Abs routine. Holy cow, serious ab burn! It took about 35 minutes and my abs were on fire!
   
   
5. And since I keep talking about drinks, I figure I’ll end on one too. As part of a Sweat Pink campaign, I received Pure Lyft Energy Stir Sticks. They’re an energy product that has zero calories, zero taste, and contains as much caffeine as one tall coffee. It was perfect to add to my glass of water before I ran out the door for my 5 a.m. shift at work last week. Instead of chugging extra coffee, it was a great way to get a little extra pep in my step.
   

Welp, back to the books for me. Hope you have a great weekend!

Food for Thought

Any big plans for the weekend?

Five Things Friday

Friday! Long weekend! I have to work tomorrow and Monday, but such is the life of a retail store employee, right? Oh well, we’re still going to have fun this weekend.

1. Yesterday was quite the exciting day! I had some errands to run so I dropped Nathan off at work and on my way back, maybe 1/4 mile from my apartment, I almost got into a huge accident [not my fault at all]. It was one of those times where as I slammed on my brakes and horn, the thoughts going through my mind were along the lines of “I wonder how bad this accident is going to be.” Thankfully my brakes are [maybe were, now] amazing and I stopped about 1 foot away from t-boning the the guy that decided to swerve and do a u-turn right in front of me. All is well, but I was definitely shaken up! If that didn’t wake me up, I don’t know what would.
2. Once I did get around to my errands, I went to the store to stock up on ingredients for a homemade porchetta. Nathan’s been talking about making one at home since we had it in Italy. We currently have 10 lbs of pork in the fridge. No, we’re definitely not vegetarians!

   
   Oooooh this is gonna be good!

3. With my crazy morning I decided I needed a nice treat for lunch. I’d been eyeing the freshly-made sushi at Berkeley Bowl since the first day we went and I finally got some. Salmon with avocado in brown rice and edamame. I also made my own spicy sriracha “mayo” [aka greek yogurt] for dipping. I’m not a soy sauce-dipper.. never have been!
   
4. I mentioned the other day that my peanut butter was dwindling. Nothing a little Vitamix action can’t fix! And because I can’t leave well enough alone, there’s a little chia seed in the mix this time. That also means licking the Vitamix was my afternoon snack haha!
   
5. Tomorrow we’re heading into the city for dinner, drinks, and live music. When Nathan came out to SF last year, he went to The Saloon with a friend of his. He said it was basically SF’s equivalent to our favorite live music bar in Baltimore, Cat’s Eye. We used to head over for some music after a little bit of this..
   

   Max’s special Big Ass Draft.. every Friday $5 for 32 oz!

   

   We’ve been meaning to go to The Saloon since we moved out here and I’m psyched to finally head over!

Well, I hope you all have a great Memorial Day weekend.. enjoy all of the cookouts, sunshine, and time with friends and family!

Food for Thought

What are your big plans for the weekend?