Friday Favs_12.19.14

/

I had another week off from Friday Favs... want to know why? I actually had about zero new photos in my phone. Last Friday, I looked back at the prior week and there was so much fun that was had, Christmassy activities, parties, delicious food and I documented NONE of it. The thing is though... it actually means that I was having so much fun that I just forgot to take out my phone and 'capture it'. To be honest, this is actually something that I'm proud of... it means that I'm being present in my conversations and enjoying the moment. That being said, as a blogger - it's kind of necessary to take photos - HA! I was little better with capturing some moments this weekend, but, let it be known... I was still very PRESENT.

And so I bring you... my favs of the week! I hope you are all enjoying every moment of this holiday season and are also scheduling in some quiet time. Things can get pretty hectic and it's important to just relax, watch a movie and enjoy the season. This weekend, we have a nice amount of relaxation 'planned', and I'm really looking forward to it. Have a GREAT weekend! xo 

The ONE picture that was taken from my Mistletoe Mingle last Saturday.

The spread.

Our annual "cookie day" was on Sunday morning and of course, I made my annual batch of pizzelles.

Amongst others...

And, espresso martinis in the North End with my besties lat night. Perfection.

Ok? Ok!

xo

#12DaysofFFF Day 4

/

Hiii everyone! It's December 8th... How is that possible? WHERE does the time go? Can we just press pause? Ok great.

Moving on, Days 1-3 of #12DaysofFFF serve as the foundation for a happy and healthy holiday season. As a refresher; Day 1 was #MOVEMORE, DAY 2 #BALANCEDEATING, and DAY 3 #MAKETIMEFOREXERCISE. Day 4 can be incorporated into Day 1 AND Day 3... BODY WEIGHT EXERCISES! I love body weight exercises due to many reasons.

1) They can be done anywhere, all you need is a 6'x6' space (approximately)
2) They are EFFECTIVE AS HECK!
3) They increase strength (which, BTW, is super necessary this time of year - carrying presents, boxes etc)
4) They will make you look toned.
5) They increase your calorie burn AT REST.

I can't stress the importance of weight lifting and body weight work. Sure, cardio will burn some calories while you're exercising. BUT, weights increase your metabolic rate (the rate in which you burn calories) for HOURSSSS after you work out. Also, you know those people with fab arms, tight abs, toned legs, and round bums? They don't just do cardio. They squat, push, pull, and jump. (well, most of them)

The above list of body weight exercises can be done together or serve as ideas to add to your day, depending on time. All of these exercises can be done in your living room. Do 15-20 each for 2-4 sets depending on your fitness level.

If you don't recognize some of these exercises - please see links below:
-Burpees
- Supermans (love these - GREAT GREAT GREAT for your core, booty, and hamstrings)
-Criss-Cross crunches
-V-Ups
Lastly, remember when squatting or lunging - your leg should be at a 90 degree angle and never let your knees push forward ahead of your toes - got it?

Ok, have a happy and healthy week!

xo

(As always, consult with your doctor if you are starting an exercise program.)


Friday Favs_12.5.14

/

Happy Friday! Friday Favs is back today after a one week hiatus. I am so excited that the holiday season has officially kicked off. This weekend, I am going to jam as much Christmassy-fun into the weekend as possible. Tonight, Rob and I are purposely staying in and it's going to be great! I am planning on making a healthy dinner, putting on Home Alone and getting to bed at a decent hour. Tomorrow, Kristen & Mark are hosting their annual Christmas Party - YAY! What are you all doing!?

Here are my favs of the last week (or two). xo

My favorite flower, gerbera daisies, that my mom and dad brought me for my birthday. So bright and beautiful!

It's becoming a tradition to have oysters on the eve of Thanksgiving. This is a tradition that makes me VERY happy. My dad works with a woman who lives on the beach on the cape. She brings them in for my dad to bring home and shuck for us... thank you, Gail!

I already mentioned the lobster that Kristen and Mark served us last weekend... here's a photo. {insert smiley emoji with heart-shaped eyes here} #omgyum

Our perfect Christmas tree. For local readers... every year, I get my tree (a Frazier Fur) at Lambert's in Dorchester. They have locations all over if you are interested.

I'm kind of obsessed with my new heart shaped light. It may stay up year-round.

So true, right? Happy weekend! xo