Thursday Three: Thankful

It's Thanksgiving so it's only natural that I write about 3 things I am grateful for:

[Where I am in my career at only 24. I think coffee is an appropriate representation of my job :)]

[For letting myself date without having my past in the back of my mind]

[For all of the fun things I've done this year from a road trip to DC with friends to events for my blog]

What are you thankful for this year?

Xo,

Lynette

Safe Travels!

No post today because everyone is gearing up for the holiday tomorrow and traveling home!

[Sometimes I like to post inappropriate things :)]

Have safe flights, train rides and road trips everyone!

Xo,

Lynette

Side Dish Roundup

Are you still stuck on what to bring to dinner on Thursday? Here are a few dishes I found from fellow bloggers that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters:

[Life's Better In Yoga Pants- Apple Mallow Sweet Potato Bake]

[Healthy Happy Life- Citrus Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots (photo courtesy of Healthy Happy Life)]

[Table for Two- Poblano Potato Gratin (photo courtesy of Table for Two)]

[Life Currents- Veggies Baked in Apricot and Thyme Sauce (photo courtesy of Life Currents)]

[Kitchen Meets Girl- The Ultimate Green Bean Casserole (photo courtesy of Kitchen Meets Girl)]

What are you bringing to the table?

Xo,

Lynette

What I'm Loving About Running

[Source]

I've been enjoying running a lot lately, largely in part to the fact that I am not training for a damn thing. A lot of you are traveling or wrapping up things at work this weeks so posts I'm not going to post too much. But, here are the 5 things I am LOVING about running:

1. No Garmin! I haven't touched by Garmin since October 6, mainly because I just want to fun run and it's still dead. Oops. At run club I go with the flow and during my weekend runs I just do what feels right.

2. I can listen to any music I want to. Usually I have a running playlist that has all upbeat songs but lately I've been utilizing my I Heart Radio app and listening to whatever comes on. Even if it's slow. 

3. The scenery. I am so happy my injury subsided so I could enjoy some fall running. The trees in my neighborhood have been so beautiful I haven't even needed to go into town. 

4. No pressure. I grew up playing competitive sports and it has been so nice to not have the pressure of a time or distance goal. 

5. New Friends! As the weather got colder more people have been showing up to run club and it has been so fun meeting new friends. I spend all day in an office and 2 hours before and after on a train so it's nice to be getting to know new people. 

What are you loving right now? 

Xo,
Lynette

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Ham & Egg Cup Recipe

I have been looking at this recipe for over a year and I only decided to make it last weekend. Mainly because I have been slacking on getting recipes up. Eggs are something I eat everyday so I thought why not? The directions and ingredients were simple and cooking time was reasonable. I also made potatoes (which you can see I burned). 

Recipe courtesy of Recipe.com. 

Note: You will need a cupcake pan in order to make the cups. 

Ingredients:

• Eggs (1 per each cup, I only made 4)
• Deli ham (again, 1 slice per each cup)
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt, pepper, garlic salt, onions (fresh or the seasoning kind)

First, pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees so it warms up while you prep.

Coat the cupcake pan with cooking spray. 

Then, place 1 slice of ham in each of the cups. Make sure to double each slice over so there are no holes in the bottom.  

Sprinkle some of the shredded cheddar cheese on the bottom of the cups.

Crack an egg into each cup. Sprinkle with the salt, pepper, garlic salt and onion. I also sprinkled some extra cheese on top. 

Place in the oven and back for about 20 minutes. 

Remove and serve! This breakfast is super simple and delicious. It's great for when you have guests or don't really feel like cooking. 

What are your favorite ways to make eggs?

Xo,

Lynette

Thursday Three: Things I've Learned Recently

I've been spending a lot of time with friends the past few weeks and have had more time than needed to think. And I have learned a few things about myself. 

[I need to disconnect from technology more. I feel a lot better when I'm not relying on it. (Source)]

[I'm still as strong and independent as I was 10 years ago and am so proud of my recent accomplishments. (Source)]

[I might not have a ton of friends, but I've got the ones I need.]

Xo,

Lynette

Sneak Peek at Xtend Barre Brooklyn Heights

Last weekend I was invited to a master class at Xtend Barre's newest studio in Brooklyn Heights led by founder Andrea Rogers. I have been going back and forth on whether or not I wanted to take a barre class for a long time. When I got the e-mail, it solidified my decision- I'm taking a class. I was a bit nervous beforehand and connected with a few Twitter friends who warned me I would be a little shaky and sore afterwards. Nothing I felt I couldn't handle!

I headed out to the studio early last Saturday and stopped by a farmers market to pass time and look around. When I got to the studio everyone was so warm and inviting. I chatted with the PR girls who rep Xtend Barre and got to connect with a few editors I message with at work. They provided us with sticky socks so we don't slip during class along with a swag bag.

At about 9:30 AM we headed into the studio. There is something about a new dance or workout studio that is just so amazing. There were little stations set up for each person. I picked one and talked with some of the other girls until we started. Andrea came in and introduced herself and told us a little about her background. She is a former professional dancer! 

We started the class with a warm-up without any equipment or the bar. She started with basic plies and then added on to form a series. Andrea was very encouraging throughout the whole class and demonstrated every move. The first time on the mat we did some arm work (including some push-ups and tricep dips!). 

On the barre is where you really feel the burn in your glutes. Andrea started us off with basic first and second position plies and from there added on leg lifts. We also did some attitude lifts- one of my favorites when I was baton twirling. One thing I certainly don't miss from twirling was being on my toes but it felt oh so good. There were squats, plies and lunges all done on our toes to work that butt!

At our station were also resistance bands that we used in a moving series across the room. Mine kept moving around so I'm not quite sure how well it worked. The class ended with a serious ab series! We used a small, light medicine ball between our knees for a few moves- once again mine kept moving. Me and props were just not meant to be. 

After the class I actually got some one on one time with Andrea. We talked about how I used to be a twirler, and every time we hear music we picture a routine. She also suggested that the next time she comes back to New York we do something special for my blog. 

The Xtend Barre class was challenging in a positive way. You DO NOT need to be a dancer to take a barre class. I felt like every muscle was utilized and I got a sufficient workout. I felt very toned afterwards and I think it would be a great addition to my workout routine. 

I highly recommend checking out the Brooklyn Heights studio when it opens. When I get official dates and prices I will update this post for you all. 

Have you ever taken a barre class? What did you think?

Xo,
Lynette

Vionic Shoes Review

A few weeks ago I attended Vionic's spring 2014 preview. Included in our swag bags were a pair of flats! I received the Olivia Leather Flat in Metallic Leopard. Last week, I finally got around to trying them out with an outfit inspired by Pinterest. 

The Vionic flats were so comfortable! I do admit, it took a bit to get used to them. All Vionic shoes are equipped with Orthaheel technology designed to reduce heel, knee, leg and back pain. I loved how much support the shoes offered. Some of my flats are so unsupported I can feel every little rock I step on. With these it was not the case. And they look super cute on. 

The Olivia Leather Flats are a little heavier than your average shoe and mine were a little big (I'm typically a size 8). But I don't think they were big enough to get a 7 so I think I would say they are almost true to size. Half sizes are available so if you are purchasing I would consider going down a half size. 

If you are looking for comfortable and stylish flats I recommend checking out Vionic. They're great holiday gifts too!

Xo,
Lynette

Weekly Laziness Recap

[Source]

Once upon a time a few months I could provide you with a great recap of all the workouts I got in. Now I can tell you what I've been doing and eating instead of getting my sweat on. Does anyone else have this issue when they're not training for anything specific? 

After attending by first ever barre class last Saturday (review up this week!), I felt inspired and got a few nice workouts in. 

Sunday- My friend takes me to Planet Fitness for free because you get to bring a guest each time. It's nice to be in a gym again and use their equipment. I did some legs and arms before we finished up with 15 minutes on the elliptical. We only did a short amount of cardio because they were closing. Despite the tough barre class the day before I felt pretty strong- and also learned I am not that strong. I guess I've got to focus on my arms a bit more!

Tuesday- 15 minute run on the treadmill. I'm still working my way back into running after my injury so I did a slow jog to get something in. I felt pretty good. My legs were tight from not thoroughly stretching from my previous workouts. 

Wednesday- Run club! We did a speed workout in Central Park. I participated in 2 800s and a 400. Yes, I'm that girl who cut her workout short but adding this much mileage and practically sprinting was bit too much too soon. I'm happy with what I did get in though. Hopefully in the next few weeks I'll be able to get my mileage back up and feel strong. 

Thursday- Yoga with A View for core and quads. My god it felt so good for my body to be stretched out. My muscles were so tight on all week and I felt like a new person. I also love that I got to do yoga in front of our fake fire place. 

Sunday- I started my day yesterday with an awesome little workout. I did my treadmills pre-set interval run for 30 minutes then did an abs series. My plans to run outside were shattered by the cold and the fact that I just gave away all of my running tights. It was the perfect way to start my day!

What workouts do you do when not training? How do you stay motivated?

Xo,
Lynette

Thursday Three: November Fun

My favorite time of the year has officially arrived! Why I love the holiday season, I have no idea. I certainly did not grow up with a family that was obsessed with this time of year. But here I am. For today's Thursday Three, here are a few things I'm excited for:

[My first ever barre class! Source]

[Baking]

[Obviously reindeer]

Xo,

Lynette

I tasted them: Pure Protein Soft Baked Bars

About a month and a half ago I was sent these new protein bards by Pure Protein. I am not one to really try new things- I've been munching on Nature's Valley Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate protein bars for quite some time. What caught my attention was the fact that they were based 20 minutes from where I live (so a local company to me) and the flavors- Double Vanilla Crunch and Peanut Butter Crunch.

I think I waited a little too long to try them because they were definitely crunchy, not soft. According to a rep, "The bars have a layer of silky smooth chocolate and crunchy vanilla/peanut butter, wrapped around a soft cake center." Something was still a little off to me though. I am not one for protein supplements but I  know a lot of my friends and readers use them daily and would enjoy these bars. 

Some additional information:

• They have 17g of protein and only 5g of sugar. My teeth are very sensitive to sugar and starting hurting immediately after one bite but that's obviously a personal problem. 
• Leading retailers include Walmart, Target, Safeway, Stop & Shop, Shop Rite, Wegmans, CVS Pharmacy, Duane Reade, 7-Eleven and GNC. 

The Pure Protein bars were decent sized. If I were to use them for training I would probably eat half before and half after my workout. Their two goals are to promote overall good health and support lean muscle and strength. 

If you are someone who uses protein powder or drinks I recommend trying Pure Protein's new soft-baked bars!

Xo,

Lynette

Discalimer: This product was sent to me free of charge to provide a review. All opinions expressed are my own. I was not compensated for this post. 

Breakfast Pizza!

For those who know me, pizza is a must-have. I usually make it myself so I can at least pretend I'm being semi-healthy but you can't beat going to your favorite pizza shop. Last weekend I decided to make a breakfast pizza. Clearly I had a bit too much free time on my hands. I took my inspiration from Melissa's Cuisine. She made her own crust but I used a pre-made one because that's how I roll.

Ingredients:

6 eggs (I used 4 and you will see in the photos that was not nearly enough)
4 slices of turkey bacon
Shredded cheddar cheese
Spinach
Milk
Spices of your choice
Olive oil or cooking spray

First, get ready to cook the bacon. I learned a way to reduce the grease but it takes about 20 minutes. Using a cookie tray, line with foil and place down the 4 slices of f bacon. Place the tray into the oven, which should NOT be turned on yet. Now, press bake and heat to 375 degrees. At the same time, put your timer on for 20 minutes. The bacon is done when it is crispy. 

While the turkey bacon is cooking, prepare your eggs. As previously mentioned, I only used 4 eggs but I recommend 6. When I scramble eggs I mix them with milk, diced onions, salt, pepper and garlic salt. 

Once the bacon is done, slice up and add to egg mixture. DO NOT TURN THE OVEN OFF. Scramble eggs in a frying pan.

When the eggs are done, leave them on very low heat (just something to keep them warm) and use either cooking spray or a little olive oil to dust the pizza crust. 

Pour egg mixture on top and add spinach and cheddar cheese.

Place pizza in the oven for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. 

Slice into 8 pieces as you would do a regular pizza and serve with fruit and coffee!

Have you ever made a breakfast pizza? What did you think of it?

Xo,

Lynette

Because You Need To Laugh + Happy NYC Marathon Day!

[Source]

Happy Marathon Day! I wish every single one of my runner friends speedy legs and lots of luck today. I will be watching you from the comfort of my bed. Everyone needs a laugh and I received this little gem from Asics that I can't not share.

Top Ten Things New Yorkers Think are Harder than Running a Marathon

1.       Running down the subway stairs and not breaking your neck to catch your train before the doors close

2.       Securing that must-have dinner reservation on a Saturday night, even if you called exactly one month prior to your reservation date

3.       Finding a legitimate yellow cab at 4pm or a cab in the rain

4.       Finding a no-fee apartment in your price range that will fit more than your mattress

5.       Breathing on the 4,5,6 train at 8:30am on a weekday

6.       Paying Time Warner Cable so you can “Enjoy Better”

7.       Not having your eye stabbed by an umbrella on a rainy day

8.       Not coming to work drenched in sweat in the heat of summer

9.       Walking out your door and not spending at least $20

10.   Finding an uninhabited park bench that is not covered in pigeon droppings

Runners, when you get out on the road today remember to soak it all in and do the best that YOU can do. If you believe you can do it, you can. BEST OF LUCK! <3

Xo,

Lynette

I Tried It: Indo Yoga Board

[Dawn Ehman]

It's officially November! I really love that it finally feels like fall even I'm constantly freezing. Anyway. Last week I was invited to try out a new trend, yoga on an Indo Board. Huh, you ask?

The Indo Board is a balance trainer created by Hunter Joslin. Originally, he designed it to train surfers out of the water but eventually realized the board could be used for so much more. With clients reporting an increase of leg and ab strength, Joslin explored how to incorporate difference activities with the Indo Board. 

In 2013, Indo Board collaborated with YogaFit (the world's largest training school) to introduce the Indo Yoga Board. The concept was inspired by SUP Yoga, which I still need to try one day. It allowed those serious about SUP to train during the colder months and those who have no access to bodies of water to experience a paddle-board type of workout. 

Dawn Ehman, owner of YogaVibez in Ocean City, Maryland, taught our class last week. There were only a few people in the 7 PM class which was nice, because as me and another girl said, more space for when we fall. 

Dawn and Hunter went over some information about the board (what I mentioned above) and said we would be doing a normal yoga flow class. Before starting we played around on the Indo Boards to get used to being unbalanced.  

For those who have taken SurfSet classes, this board is milder and easier to keep your balance. To make it harder, you can put blow up pillows underneath, but you will never be able to stabilize yourself. 

The first couple of moves were easy (we were sitting on the board for a little doing cat/cows, etc). Then Dawn began sun salutations. Down dog is so different when you are NOT stable! As I was getting the hang of the flow, she sped up. 

We did all three warriors on the board too. It definitely takes good concentration to do Warrior Three when you have to focus on balancing on a board and staring at the wall. Tree pose wasn't too hard though. For crow, we had 2 options. You could have your hands on the ground or on the board. I chose the ground because I did NOT want to cause a scene. In reality, I really only almost fell once during the class. 

One of the last poses we did was a full wheel (bridge). Unlike during a regular yoga class, you cannot hesitate to push up or you will lose your balance. Dawn came around and helped us all up so there were no injuries. 

Afterwards, Hunter came back in and we asked some questions. We even put the pillows under our boards to see what it felt like. Dawn said she has only had about 3 people do a whole entire class like that. When you are just using the board, you can usually stabilize yourself on the rockers but not when the pillows are there. 

If you want to practice Indo Yoga Board at home, you are able to purchase a one for about $300. All of the ones released in 2014 will be made with cork to reduce slipping and sliding.

If you have the opportunity to take one of these classes I highly recommend it. You work all sorts of different muscles when trying to keep your balance and perform the yoga poses. Your butt and back will feel it after!

Have you ever taken an Indo Yoga Board class? What did you think?

Xo,
Lynette