Friday, March 30, 2018

Friday Five: 5 Reasons I Love Being an Auntie

In honor of my wonderful nephew's 1st birthday today, this Friday Five is dedicated to him and my top 5 reasons why I LOVE being his auntie (and an auntie in general!).


1. I get to spend a lot of time with him that is full of hugs, snuggles, and fun, but am not responsible for him 24/7.

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2. He always lights up when I enter the room. Nothing beats coming home after a long day of work to his huge smile as I walk in the door!

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3. We talk through Facebook Messenger when he wants to see me or we haven't seen each other in a few days.

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4. He finds the simplest things amusing such as peek-a-boo or riding around the house in a laundry basket, which puts a smile on my face.


5. I get to spoil him!

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I can't believe it has already been a whole year since my adorable little nephew entered my life! I can't wait to make many more memories with him as he grows up!

Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Product Spotlight: Momentum Jewelry

**I am not receiving any compensation in exchange for this review. These thoughts are entirely my own!**



Momentum Jewelry was first introduced to me through Instagram over a year ago. A lot of runners I followed were always sharing photos of these adorable wraps with inspirational sayings. Little known fact, I'm a sucker for inspirational quotes, sayings, mantras, etc. I love buying and wearing clothing, jewelry, or anything else that has a super relatable saying on it. When I first saw these wraps, I was not only drawn to the idea of wearing my favorite running mantras right on my wrist, but I also loved how they were adjustable to fit even the teeniest of wrists and oh-so comfortable looking.

Momentum Wrap (bottom) + Sparklet (top)

Back in January, I finally bit the bullet and ordered a Momentum Wrap. I got the eggplant wrap with "run happy" engraved on a rectangle charm. Within a few days of receiving my first wrap, I also won a Sparklet through one of my favorite running blogs. I was happy to be able to test out two different pieces of jewelry from Momentum. Let's just say I completely fell in love with both! They fit so nicely and don't leave marks on my wrist after wearing them all day. The wrap colors are all beautiful. I wish I could order all of them! And if it couldn't get any better, the story behind Momentum Jewelry is so sweet. You can read about it HERE because I'll probably butcher it if I try to summarize it.

One of my custom wraps!

Since ordering my first wrap, I have ordered a couple more Momentum Wraps. This time I decided to get the custom wraps so I was able to get my two favorite phrases on them. One says "the road is my happy place" and the other days "goal digger." Ordering a custom wrap is super easy to do and if you have any questions, the custom stamper is awesome and will work with you! I had a couple questions about the design of mine and she worked with me to create exactly what I wanted. Talk about amazing customer service!

My other custom wrap!

If you can't tell, I really love Momentum Jewelry and would order everything they had to offer if I could (I currently have the whole Your Journey Awaits collection on my wish list)! I wear my wraps or Sparklet on every run to give me the motivation I really need. If you're looking for some motivation for yourself or need a gift idea for your running/workout buddy, consider checking out Momentum Jewelry!

Question of the Day: What mantra would you get on a Momentum Wrap?

Monday, March 26, 2018

Weekly Workout Recap: 3/19-3/25

Monday, March 19- 5 miles with my brother, sister, and nephew
*I don't even know how I made it through this run! My legs were still sore from my weekend workouts and I have been sick.*

Tuesday, March 20- Rest day! Happy First Day of Spring!

Wednesday, March 21- 4 miles in the snow :)

Thursday, March 22- 1 mile run

Friday, March 23- 7 mile run with my brother and sister

Saturday, March 24- 2 mile run

Sunday, March 25- 60 minutes of strength training +1 mile run to try out my new Brooks Levitates!

Total Weekly Mileage- 20 miles

I spent most of my week congested and feeling like death but I was somehow able to fit in some good runs! On Sunday I got a new pair of Brooks Levitates that I am eager to add into my shoe rotation. The snow kept me from getting a lot of strength training in at the gym but I went Sunday and got in a good workout that has left me sore! My new goal is to be able to do a pull up (or maybe more :P). Thank goodness for the assisted pull up machine at the gym that is helping me work towards this goal!

Motivation Monday

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Running is the usually the best part of my day and I never regret lacing up and getting myself out there! If there is one thing you can do for yourself today, it's to go run.

Friday, March 23, 2018

Friday Five: 5 Reasons I Love Running in the Snow

Although it felt like it was never going to get here... HAPPY FRIDAY! I don't know about you guys, but this week has been crazy for me! Between snow days and late arrivals at work, I haven't been able to keep my life straight. We finally made it to Friday, though. This Friday's 5 is dedicated to the weather I have been experiencing for the past couple weeks: s n o w. It's no secret that I love to go out and run in the snow. Whether is snowing or has already snowed, you can find me out there pounding the snow-covered pavement. Here are 5 reasons why I absolutely love running in the snow!


1. It's peaceful
You can't argue with me on this one. Something about being out in the snow is so peaceful and allows me to get lost in my thoughts. It's almost completely silent out there, especially eary in the morning while people are still nestled in their beds, taking advantage of the snow day. I just love it!


2. The sound of snow underneath my feet 
Okay okay, I know I just said running in the snow is peaceful, but there is one sound: the crunching of snow underneath my feet. That is a sound I want to hear. It's calming in a way I just can't describe. It's even better when it's that packable snow that no one else has walked in yet.


3. Nobody else is out there
Something that adds to the peacefulness of being out in the snow is usually no one else is out there. I really don't like running somewhere that is full of people unless it's at a race. I also don't like people watching me run (this is a personal opinion of mine). When it's snowy out, it almost guarantees me that nobody else will be out and about. The most I'll see is the occasional person walking their dog or beginning to shovel their sidewalks. Other than that, it's just me and the snow.


4. I get to enjoy the scenery
Nothing is as pretty as trees with snow laying on it's branches or a field completely covered in fresh snow. One of the perks of braving the snow to go on a run is being able to experience this beauty before it gets ruined.


5. Even the smallest mileage feels like a lot
Running in snow is not always the easiest. Sometimes you have to dodge patches of ice or slushy puddles. Sometimes you have snow hitting you in the face and getting into your eyes. All these little obstacles make the run feel even more intense than usual. Sometimes I could run 2 miles and still feel like I ran over 5 miles out there. It's a great feeling of accomplishment!

As much as this snow can be enjoyable, I am really longing for some warmer days. I am ready to put this snow behind me and pack away my fleece-lined tights. I want my spring weather!

**I always use caution when running in the snow! If I feel the conditions are unsafe, I will not go out there! As of now, I do not own any equipment for my shoes to handle the ice better so I have to be careful!**

Question of the Day: Do you like running in the snow? Why or why not?

Tuesday, March 20, 2018

Spring Has SpRUNg!

Happy Spring!! I don't know about you, but I am beyond excited for spring after such a long and brutal winter. It's not a secret that I love running in colder temps, but this past winter has been far from enjoyable in my opinion. I have found myself leaving for a run in fleece-lined tights and a running jacket over a few layers of shirts more times that I would like. Nothing makes me want to turn back during a run than cold wind piercing my skin. I'm not sure what has been up with Mother Nature this winter, especially over here in Jersey, but I'm hoping this mean she's going to reward us with a beautiful spring and summer to make up for it...

This past weekend I had to start out wearing THREE layers on top. I ended with only one left on...

Although the weather reports don't show very spring-y weather for the next few weeks, I'm still happy that we are closer to warmer temps than we were a few weeks ago. I'm looking forward to packing up all my fleece-lined tights, long-sleeved shirts, gloves, and every other winter running item that I have had to haul out of my winter running trunk this year. I truly do not remember the past few winters being this chilly!

I am SO looking forward to wearing shorts and tank tops...

The only thing I am not looking forward to as we move into warmer months is the brutally hot days that make me feel like I couldn't even run a quarter mile. But at this point, I'll take them over these blustery days!

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Throughout these next few months (my last few months before marathon training begins), I want to really crack down on establishing routines in my running schedule. Come the start of marathon training in July, I want a solid schedule that I feel confident sticking to. What does this mean, you may ask? Well, my current focus is strength training. I have been averaging about 2-3 days of strength training at my gym consisting of free weights, weight machines, and ab workouts. Most nights I also like to do a quick ab workout with my kettle bells. I also have been trying to add in at least one speed work a week. Now I am hoping to figure out the best schedule to fit in running, strength training, and speed work. My hopes are to run 4-5 times a week with one of those runs being speed work. I want to keep up with strength training 2-3 times a week, possibly on days after I run. The most important thing I want to add in is rest days! I struggle with taking days to rest my body but I know in order to keep it moving, I need to rest. I also need to torture myself use my foam roller and R8 roller more than I already am. I think my body will thank me :)

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I hope everyone has a WONDERFUL first day of spring and enjoys their free Rita's water ice! :)

Monday, March 19, 2018

Motivation Monday


SO. TRUE. There are some days where I just tell myself "don't worry about your pace, just as long as you don't stop." I usually try to avoid walking on those days, too. I'm not against walking during a run but sometimes a run = done for me whereas other times it serves as a small break for my ankle or breathing.

Here's to hoping this week goes by quicker than last week did!

Question(s) of the Day: What motivates you? What goals do you have for the week?

Sunday, March 18, 2018

Weekly Workout Recap: 3/12-3/18

Monday, March 12- 3 mile run with my brother + 30 minutes of strength training {free weights again!} + foam rolling

Tuesday, March 13- REST DAY

Wednesday, March 14- 3.14 mile run with my brother for Pi Day!
Thursday, March 15- REST DAY

Friday, March 16- 3.1 mile run

Saturday, March 17- 45 minutes strength training

Sunday, March 18- 5 mile run

Total Weekly Mileage: 13.24

I got in some really good runs this week with great paces so I'm content with how this week played out :)

Friday, March 16, 2018

Friday Five: 5 Things I'm Loving This Week

Happy Friday! Did anybody else feel like this week  d r a g g e d  on? I woke up on Wednesday thinking it was Thursday so that's basically how my week went... Anywho, I'm pumped that it's finally the weekend even if I don't have anything exciting planned! I really look forward to just relaxing and getting in some good workouts/runs on my own time. This week's Friday Five gives a little sneak peek into my life so sit back and enjoy!

Motivate Wraps
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1. Your Journey Momentum Wraps
Last week Momentum Jewelry released their newest line of momentum wraps, the Your Journey collection and let's just say I am obsessed. This collection features new mantras such as "worry less run more," "choose kind," "adventure awaits," and more! Along with the new mantras, they also released new wrap colors including sweet mint, orchid, very violet, and periwinkle. I'm currently trying to save money and I already ordered some new wraps just days before these were released, so I'm waiting to order a few of these. I'm totally eyeing up "worry less run more" on a periwinkle wrap and "adventure awaits" on a sweet mint wrap :)

Girl Scout Cookie Inspired Flavors 1
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2. Dunkin Donuts Girl Scout Cookie Flavors
These new flavors (Thin Mint, Caramel Coconut, and Peanut Butter Cookie) have been out for a few weeks now but I've finally tried all three and can safely say they all ROCK! I have tried all three in iced coffee and the Peanut Butter Cookie flavor in hot chocolate and I can't decide which I liked best! My brother claims a frozen hot chocolate with Peanut Butter Cookie is his favorite. I just want to drink them all day every day!


3. Free Weights at the Gym
In November I joined a new gym close to my house in hopes of adding strength training into my workout schedule. I think I have been doing a pretty darn good job if I do say so myself. I aim to go about 3-4 times a week. I focus on weights each time and occasionally take advantage of the treadmill for a run or speed work if the weather isn't the best outside. I've really been enjoying strength training and am already seeing some progress. This past week I decided to ask my brother to teach me some stuff in the free weight area. I've been avoiding the free weight area in the gym because honestly it's intimidating. Everyone there seems to know what they're doing and I just had this fear of completely embarrassing myself. Luckily, I go to the gym with my work out fanatic little brother who agreed to help me out. I am so glad I finally made the jump from machines to free weights because boy oh boy do I feel a difference. **I do still use the weight machines but I am slowly transitioning to mostly using free weights**

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4. The "Hanger Trick"
Okay okay, so I'm not sure what the real name of this trick is but I like to refer to it as the hanger trick. The purpose of the hanger trick is to try and wear all your clothes in your closet while also seeing what clothes you don't want or need anymore. If this is something you feel you need to do then listen up! To start, put all the clothes in your closet on hangers facing towards the back of the closet (the typical way). As you wear each item, wash it and put it back on the hanger. When you put it back in the closet, put it with the hook facing the opposite way. Do this with each item you wear and do not wear any of the clothes facing the opposite way just yet. After a couple weeks, most of your clothes should be facing the opposite way. Those hangers facing the back most likely are holding a clothing item you aren't a huge fan of. This is where you purge those items! Either give it away, sell it, donate it, whatever makes you feel good. Then switch your hangers back around and start all over! I have been trying to purge a lot lately in hopes of living a more simplified life and so far this trick has been super helpful. I use this trick all the time to make sure I wear everything I own and also to learn which items I don't actually like wearing. My closet loves me for it and I actually switch up my outfits now!

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5. Wedding Planning
This is kind of a random but for those of you who don't know, I'll be getting married next August which is 511 days away! With this over a year away, I've kind of been putting planning on the back burner because there isn't a whole lot I can do this early. However, I really got into a wedding planning mood this week so I tried my best to find some tasks I could start to cross off my never-ending list. I actually am really enjoying researching photographers and planning some DIY decor. If you've been keeping up with my blog then you probably know I love planning and preparing and overall just being ahead in my life so any little tasks I can cross off my to-do lists really makes me feel good!

Question of the Day: What are you loving this week?

Tuesday, March 13, 2018

Race Recap: The Lucky Run 5k

On Sunday my sister and I ran The Lucky Run, a local 5k, for the third time. It has always been a favorite of mine due to the fun atmosphere, smaller size, and after party! The race typically starts and ends at an Irish pub where everyone meets up to eat and drink afterwards. This year was a little different due to the typical Irish pub we went to being bought out by a Wawa (not sure if I'm mad about this yet or not..). Instead, we went to a local park to run the 5k and then drove to meet at a new Irish pub. Surprisingly, it wasn't a bad deal.

We got to the park pretty early, as per usual. It was just Ashley and I running the race but her husband, son, and my fiance tagged along to cheer us on. We were able to do packet pick up that day which was awesome. We spent a good amount of time just hanging around, taking photos, and listening to the bag pipers. It was FREEZING so I was beyond thankful when it was finally time to go to the start.

The route was mapped out entirely in the park which is always nice since there is no worries of cars. The only downside was narrow pathways which meant being in a crowd a majority of the time. The route went around the park, looping one section twice. I was happy that the path was completely clear of snow even after our snow storm a few days prior. There were a couple puddles here and there but nothing too bad.

The beginning of the race was COLD so I kept my jacket on at the start. After about a mile I warmed up and tired my jacket around my waist. I felt great for a majority of the race. At some points my ankle hurt but not enough to stop me (I have a history of ankle problems which I'll talk about in a later post). I was grateful for a water stop around mile 1.5 because somehow I was super thirsty by that point and wasn't carrying any water on me. My sister and I stayed together the whole time and even crossed the finish line together. It had been awhile since I had run a 5k so I was surprised at how quickly it was over with.

We left for the pub right after we finished in order to score a good parking spot and seat. In years past they have had free food in the form of a buffet line. This year they gave each table free fries, tater tots, and pretzel bites. I loved this because 1) SNACKS and 2) we didn't have to get up from our table and stand in a long line for some food. Along with the snacks, we also ordered some food from the special menu provided. I ordered an eggplant quinoa burger and it was delicious! I liked the set up of this after party a little bit more than years past. In the past, we would be in a crowded pub, just standing around and hanging out with fellow runners. I liked the relaxed feel of this after party. Maybe it was because I was already tired from losing an hour of sleep or maybe I'm just getting old :)

No race would be complete without some sort of sweet treat, so of course we had to check out the newest local donut shop which happened to be super close to the pub. Ashley and I both tried the Irish Potato donut and Blueberry Hill donut. For anyone familiar with the Fractured Prune, they were comparable to them. Soooo good and definitely worth it!

I forgot how much I loved doing smaller races and just races in general. I haven't been doing as many lately due to trying to save money but I do have a few more smaller races planned for this year to keep me sane until marathon #3 in November. Next up, Hot Chocolate 15k in April!

Question of the Day: What races do you have coming up in the next few months?

Monday, March 12, 2018

Motivation Monday

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This quote is perfect for these past few weeks of crazy weather. Each day is not going to be perfect for a run. Some days it's too cold/hot/windy/rainy/snowy/etc. The list is endless. Obviously you do not want to go out in torrential downpour or a blizzard, but skipping a run each time the weather isn't the perfect condition will not help you at all. Personally, running in imperfect conditions makes me feel stronger. Something about running through snow or a light drizzle makes me feel tough and determined. Running in imperfect conditions has also been beneficial for me when it comes to race preparation. I once ran a very hilly half marathon in April... while it was snowing. Fortunately I had had the chance to run in the snow on several occasions, making this familiar terrain. If I hadn't trained in these conditions, I wouldn't had known how to handle myself in this type of weather, resulting in injury. 

Overall, this quote is very motivational to me and I wish it is for you all as well!

Sunday, March 11, 2018

Weekly Workout Recap: 3/5-3/10

Monday, March 5- 60 minutes strength training + foam rolling
*I tried out free weights! I'm trying to use them more as opposed to the machines at the gym.*

Tuesday, March 6- 2 miles with my brother and sister

Wednesday, March 7- Rest day thanks to the snow storm


Thursday, March 8- 4 miles #BraveLikeGabe

Friday, March 9- 45 minutes strength training + rolling with my R8


Saturday, March 10- 6 mile run


Sunday, March 11- Lucky Run 5k with my sister!



Total Weekly Mileage: 15.1 miles
I took it easy this week to rest up my ankle/leg. It's been off and on sore lately and I really didn't want to wear it out too much before my 5k. The snow storm added on some additional rest time on top of my planned rest days (I'm not complaining, though!). Overall, it was a pretty good week!

Friday, March 9, 2018

Friday Five: 5 Things I'm Loving This Week

TGIF! We finally made it to the end of this crazy work week! Mine was crazy because it was filled with snow and a disorganized schedule. I hope every has a wonderful, relaxation and/or fun-filled weekend ahead of them. Today's Friday Five focuses on 5 things I've been loving lately and want to share with you!

My designated egg mug that never actually holds coffee...
1. Egg Mugs
I'm pretty late to the party on this one, but I've recently discovered egg mugs and now they have been my go-to breakfast. For those of you who are also late to the egg mug party, let me tell you about this easy-peasy breakfast (or any time of day meal) that is life changing. Egg mugs are exactly what you think: an egg made in a mug. Mind blowing, right?! All you have to do is find a mug that's not too small (I actually have a designated mug for my eggs), scramble up an egg or two in them, add any other ingredients you may wish, and pop it in the microwave. I know all microwaves can be different, so I'll tell you how I cook mine but remember your egg mug may take more or less time. I first put it in the microwave for 1 minute. After a minute, I take it out and check to see if there is still some liquid (there almost always is). If there is any more liquid, I pop it back in for about 30 seconds. That is usually just enough time for me. And there you have it: a delicious breakfast that takes little time and doesn't dirty a bunch of dishes. Just a few pointers on making egg mugs: make sure the yolk gets broken when you scramble the egg or else it may pop while microwaving and make a big mess. Clean or soak the mug right after eating because nothing is more annoying to clean than dried up scrambled eggs.


2. Everything but the Bagel seasoning from Trader Joe's
I've been hearing/reading a lot about this seasoning lately around social media and recipe blogs. People have been raving about all the different foods they have been using this seasoning on, such as the newly-popular 2 ingredient bagels (I know this is supposed to be focusing on the seasoning, but OMG these bagels are amazing and oh so easy to make!). I'm not much of a seasoning person, but after hearing about it so much, I decided I had to try it. I don't have a Trader Joe's extremely close to me, so last weekend I convinced my fiance to go with me to the closest one we have to not only check out Trader Joe's since I had never been, but also to pick up this seasoning. I have only tried it on my eggs so far but I am already hooked. The garlic, onion, sesame seed, and poppy seed mixture is delicious! I plan to make the 2 ingredient bagels soon to try it on.

Faded Glory Women's Scrunch Ballet Flat
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3. Faded Glory Scrunch Ballet Flats from Walmart

Sadly I am unable to wear running shoes at my job which forces me to find shoes that not only look nice, but also are comfortable enough to wear for an extended period of time... oh, and don't break the bank! This is something that has always been a challenge for me. Somehow I can never find shoes that meet these three standards. Well, that was until this week! While in Walmart the other night, I decided to check out the shoe section. Every once in awhile I come across a decent pair of dress shoes for a very reasonable price. They're not always the most comfortable or durable, but they make do. This particular night I came across a pair of flats that meet my three standards. They are basic scrunch flats with comfortable memory foam inside and only cost me $9.97! I was so excited! I wore them the next day and I was NOT disappointed. I even went back the next night and picked up a nude pair, brown pair, and extra black pair. I couldn't pass up such a great deal for a pair of flats that are basically super cheap Tieks! Now I'm not sure how long they'll last, but for less than $10, I'll be happy with anything longer than 6 months.


4. Two Hour Snow Delays
My area got a significant amount of snow this week which surprisingly did NOT result in any full snow days. Yes, I know it sounds like I am happy about this. That's because I am. One more snow day means that we lose time off our school's Spring Break and most people I know did not want that to happen. On Wednesday we were given an early dismissal so we could make it home before the worst of the snow storm. I was very grateful for that! In turn, we were given a 2 hour delay on Thursday. This made me so happy because not only was I able to take my time getting ready in the morning, but I also had time for a Dunkin' breakfast date with John! If only every work day could start at 10 AM...


5. Brave Like Gabe
If you haven't heard about Gabe Grunewald and her "Brave Like Gabe" foundation, you can get the full story on Brooks website. Long story short, Gabe is a pro runner who has been battling cancer. Despite the cancer, Gabe is extremely positive and still working towards her goals. She is using the phrase "Brave Like Gabe" to help others find their own opportunities to be brave.


"Brave Like Gabe" has become the sign-off for Gabe's story as a cancer patient and professional athlete. For Gabe, being brave means continuing to train even when doctors tell her she'll never be as fast as she was before. It means living a full life with her husband Justin Grunewald and going about her normal routine as a professional athlete.

For someone else, being brave could mean having the courage to run their first mile. If we truly take "Brave Like Gabe" to heart, it means persevering through challenges without comparing ourselves to anyone else.

Want to celebrate Gabe's positive spirit and love of running? Dedicate your next run to her! It's simple: go on Brooks website (link posted above), download & print the PDF, RUN, record those miles, and then share on social media using the hashtag #BraveLikeGabe. I dedicated my run yesterday to Gabe!