February 1, 2020
With the start of the new year, I thought it would be a good idea to share more about my spending habits as of late. As I reflected on this, it was really interesting to see how my tastes and interests have evolved over time. As well as priorities. Those over-30 money habits definitely hit different, and I find that they are more in line with what makes me happy in the long run. But also reflects what I enjoy most, and that caters to the lifestyle I want to live. So, here it goes. read more
February 13, 2019
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When we talk about the things we can control in life, mastering oneself is THE only thing you can control. And that includes your personal health and wellness, which I am super passionate about. Although the approach is different for everyone, I thought I’d share what I do to keep my health in tip-top shape in a way that’s best for me. Hopefully, it can help you along your health and wellness journey.
Food
I am big on meal prep. It is the only way to ensure you are eating the way you want to eat. For almost 10 years, I was a pescetarian, but I no longer eat that way. I do eat low carb (little to no white carbs) lean protein with lots of veggies and healthy fats. So, basically, my plate is ¼ protein, ¼ healthy carbs and fats, and half vegetables. And my body loves it. I plan out dinner and lunch for the week. I cook my lunch for the week on Sunday, and I cook dinner on Monday and Wednesday. On the weekends we eat out, aside from breakfast, and this is the time I cheat a bit here and there. I may throw in some pasta (the REAL pasta), doughnuts, etc. You gotta keep it balanced to stay on track. I believe eating healthy is an act of self-care, so you should also enjoy yourself.
PC: Joanie Simon
Fitness
My exercise routine is pretty simple. I do a mix of yoga/pilates, strength training, walking, and hiking. I also, HIIT here and there. I select my workout based on how I’m feeling and my energy level. I always listen to my body and figure out what it needs that day. For instance, a couple of days before my period, I’m usually doing yoga or walking. And my workouts usually consist of 30-40 minutes five to six days a week. I workout mostly at home or in the gym in my building using fitness apps, Pinterest or YouTube videos. Occasionally, I’ll go to a class. I find that being able to work out on my own, according to what I want to do, works best for me to stay consistent, and I’ve seen great results in doing so.
Wellness
Other things I try to do monthly or every couple of months is visiting my chiropractor and getting massages. I get lower back pain so I like to get a tune-up at the chiropractor every couple of months, and it helps so much. I enjoy massages for the relaxation and release that they provide. Plus, you gift yourself an hour of no talking, no work, no social media. It’s just time for yourself. I also want to add meditation in here. I feel like everyone beats this subject to death, but the benefits are real. And although I almost never get a chance to do it daily, I do it as much as I can, and I notice a big difference in my wellbeing when I do.
So that’s all folks! What keeps you running like a well-oiled machine? Share it with me in the comments!
November 28, 2018
Hi, my name is Jennifer and I am addicted to sugar. They say the first step is admitting it, right? So, my current favorite dessert is the Huckleberry doughnut from Sidecar Doughnuts. I can taste the light, flavorful, huckleberry glaze draped over that perfectly moist cake doughnut. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. I am truly a doughnut fiend. I love them. As well as cakes, cookies, etc. The list goes on. And then one day, I cut it all out, cold turkey.
Why? I have always been into health and wellness since I was a teenager (I blame my mom), and I get super obsessive when it comes to learning about and trying new things. However, I decided to give up sugar because of hormonal imbalance. My intuition told me to do some research on how to better manage my hormones. And the number one change I needed to make, according to damn near every single article and study I read, was to cut refined sugars completely. Not once a week or on the weekends. No, cut the crap. For real. This doesn’t mean I can never have refined sugar, but it can’t be a regular part of my diet. It has to be what it is. A treat.
June 6, 2018
If you are like me, you may be fighting the powers that zap your energy: simple curiosity, willingness to take on new projects and such, and just trying new things. The beauty of being a woman over 30 is that everything seems a bit clearer, you (should) have your priorities straight and you feel more at peace. You are truly enjoying life and living it the way YOU want to live it. But, where is the wonder? Where is the creative magic?
I have found over the last couple of years that it is so easy to get caught up in the routine of life – like keeping up with all of my obligations, making sure I have carved out time to workout and meditate, and getting out the door to get shit done in a timely fashion; not to mention time with my loved ones. After that, I really don’t want to do anything else. I keep a running list of all of the ideas that turn on the light bulb in my head – usually in the shower or right before bed. But to be honest, most of these ideas have yet to come to fruition; partly because I am an Aries and we rarely finish what we start unless we are 150% into it, and partly because I don’t FEEL like putting the energy into it. But, are these good excuses? No. read more
February 25, 2018
I want to share a few of my favorite things as of late. And maybe I should start sharing this more often. Since it’s my first time doing this, it is quite an exhaustive list. It ranges from hair and beauty to fashion and everything in between. Enjoy and feel free to comment. Hopefully, you see something you want to check out.
I also need to do a quick write up on our Park City experience during the holidays. I am so geeked to visit again next year. Park City is such an amazing little town with excellent food and activity. And I cannot wait to share with you all.
My two oversized button-up shirts from Aritzia
Oversized button ups are a thing for me. I first fell in love with an old Ann Taylor one I had for years that I, unfortunately, had to get rid of because it was too worn out. Then, Aritzia had a sale and I stumbled upon these two babies. The quality is THE BEST. I believe this is a chic staple everyone should have in their wardrobe. You can wear them so many different ways. I cannot live without at least one.
Initial necklace by Anthropologie
My boss gave all the girls on her team this necklace, and no joke, we all wear it regularly. It is so simple, yet statement-making. I layer it with my Evil Eye necklace or wear it alone.
Red booties from Zara
I got them so cheap on sale, and they are a beautiful soft red leather with tiny silver studs. I’ve worn them almost every other day. They are the perfect winter red shoe.
Similar ones here.
My hubby surprised me with these for Christmas, and I died. I was totally not expecting such an incredible shoe. Between these and the red booties, they have been the only shoes I’ve worn for the last two months. And I love that I don’t see a lot of people wearing them.
Dermalogica Phyto Replenish oil
Can Dermalogica make anything I don’t like? I mean, really. Almost my entire skincare regimen is Dermalogica, and adding this wonderful oil has helped so much with dehydrated skin. I tried this before as I got it free through work. And then I just didn’t buy it again. Why? I have no idea. It’s expensive as hell but worth it. It’s lightweight and great for your skin. I use it at night and during the day by mixing it with my tinted moisturizer in the mornings, and it gives me that perfect healthy glow without doing too much and looking greasy. read more
January 2, 2018
My husband thinks I spend too much time on Instagram and the funny thing is, compared to others I know, I think I’m on it way less. But, what does he know? LOL. It can be a challenge when you work in the digital space to curb your appetite for social media. I always feel like I’m missing out on some news, inspiring content, etc. However, lately, I’ve been thinking more about the effects of social media and how to cut back even when it’s a core part of your work. Here are a few tips that have helped me along the way.
When I need to focus, I place my phone in my desk or put it face down (switch to airplane mode if you have to). This prevents me from being distracted and I can actually get some deep work done and enhance those creative juices. read more