Weekend Snapshots

Triple Tangent Tuesday- The Food Edition (Except I didn't post until Wednesday)

1. I've never been a coffee drinker. Only sweetened lattes and frappuccinos for me. Lately, Brandon has started making me a home version of an iced latte- Vanilla Folgers Coffee, a little bit of cold soy milk and a little bit of sugar (or Splenda) plus some ice- and I'm obsessed.

This has replaced my morning Diet Mt. Dews, which is huge! Maybe it's not that much healthier, but it is cheaper and saves plastic. 

This is why our Keurig is so awesome. One cup of apple cider or vanilla coffee for me, and one cup of some bold coffee for Brandon. 

2. Have you ever tried Nutella? I just did. It's a chocolate-y hazelnut butter that tastes like heaven. I don't think I will ever be satisfied with regular peanut butter again. I'm making a grocery list of things that will go with Nutella as I type, because I've demolished all of the pretzels in the house so far. The best things I can think of are bananas, apples, pears, and celery. 

Any more ideas? BTW don't bother typing Nutella into Pinterest because you will be tempted with all kinds of yummy recipes like Nutella pancakes, Nutella cookies, Nutella cupcakes, and a million other things I can't stop thinking about. 

Source: hpotterfacts.tumblr.com via StubbedMy on Pinterest

We are so alike, me and Hermione. Or Emma Watson and I are destined to be BFF's. Or both!

2.5 I also think I'm going to try carrots and hummus for a snack, or even peppers and hummus. I love both of those veggies in a salad or dipped in ranch, and I LOVE hummus, so I must love those veggies dipped in hummus as well, right? Right. 

3. My husband is bringing me back some of my mother-in-law's potato salad after his visit this weekend, and I'm so excited. It's like a summer must-have for me. And it's almost summer so I must have some. She's given me the recipe but I can't make it like she can. Or maybe it just doesn't taste as good if I have to do all the work. 

3.5 Speaking of doing all the work- I'm waiting for a day when I have enough time to make tomato soup from scratch. I'm obsessed with tomato soup from Jason's Deli and Panera, and I just tried tomato soup from the store and it doesn't even compare. I found the recipe to both of their soups online, so I'm hoping I can make a large batch and freeze some, because we all know I don't like to spend time in the kitchen. But I need more yummy tomato soup in my life.

Now I must get work out then get to work because the Glee finale last night, I get to watch it when I finish working.  Tears will be shed. I actually thought last week was the finale so there were tears shed during that episode as well. I get emotional over my TV shows, don't judge. 

Weekend Rewind

I had a fabulously productive weekend. I'm still high on endorphins and pure bliss. 

Brandon's best friend Evan just graduated pharmacy school and is moving to Memphis. Yay! He came to stay with us this weekend to go apartment hunting. We took him to dinner at one of our newest restaurant on our 2 favorite restaurants rotation, Las Delicias. 

Jeans, Shirt, Necklace and Shoes- J.Crew
Bag- Kate Spade
Matching Mint headband (not pictured but my new favorite) - J.Crew

This is what I came up with when I had exactly five minutes to get out of my scrubs and get ready. I would say that two hungry boys weren't willing to wait long, but honestly I'm a just a get-ready-in-five-minutes kind of girl.

Saturday morning, I went for a run and a short bike ride to get a few errands done. This was the first time I've ever run in shorts successfully, but it worked because these shorts have built-in compression-type shorts underneath for extra coverage. Love. Need 5 pair. 

Do you love how I managed to tell you the story of the temperature and what I had for breakfast in this one picture? It was 83* and you can barely see the edge of my cereal bowl. 

Dress- J.Crew on clearance!
Shoes- J.Crew
Bag- Kate Spade

Even eventually woke up and we went for a late lunch at the only other restaurant we frequent, R.P. Tracks. The boys goofed off while I got ahead on a few work things for the week. The exercise and productivity that happened this day was phenomenal. 

But then... I had time left over to spend a few hours with my sweet little Annie Ruth. 

And the amount of non productive lounging around that happened Sunday was even more amazing. I tried to work out, and I guess technically I did, but not for long. Did a little online shopping, then Kelly and Anniston came over to see how Anniston liked our pool- this girl is gonna be a swimmer for sure!

I was going to attempt another run Sunday night but a storm was on the way, so I decided to watch a movie with my hubby instead.

It was a nearly perfect weekend! 

Ice Cream and Movies

Brandon and I decided to go see The Avengers last night, which he has already seen once and I was super excited about. 

I got home from a long, crazy day of screenings and handing out freebies at the Senior Expo here in Memphis, and this outfit was about the cutest thing I could manage. 

Sometimes I like to take really really bad pictures so you guys appreciate how good my other ones are. 

Kidding! 

I was simply too lazy to move the white tower, or to turn on any lights, or to change any camera settings. 

You are welcome. 

This is one of my favorite new shirts from J.Crew, because it was cheap, it's casual and it's comfy. 

I'm totally breaking out of my ballet flat comfort zone with these, but I had a really good coupon so I decided to go for it.

A watermark is essential on this photo since I know many people will try to steal it.

If you can't make them out (which I don't know why you wouldn't be able to), they are brown Tory Burch sandals. I'm glad I purchased them, and I honestly think I'll wear them quite a bit. I will love my ballet flats till the day I die but sometime it's 100* in Memphis and these will be perfect for those times. 

Anyways, I made Brandon take me to YoLo, which is right across the street from the movie theater. As much as I love frozen yogurt, I hardly ever get to eat it because Brandon is practically vegan so he doesn't eat it. I tried gelato for the first time ever and I am in love!

Avengers was awesome, and made me want to watch Iron Man because I love Robert Downey Jr. and that character. But what I really really want to see it the new Batman! I saw a preview for the second time last night, and it gives me chills! Luckily, I'm off work the day it comes out, and Brandon's best friend who is the biggest Batman fan ever might be living in Memphis by that time, so we might just go see the midnight showing!

Just looking at this picture makes me so excited! I'm a huge fan of action movies, especially super-hero movies, and Batman has always been my favorite. After watching The Avengers, I'm pretty sure Iron Man is going to come in as a close second, though. 

Now I'm off to work- it's another 50 hour week for me, but I don't really mind since I love my new job and I love to shop! :)

I'm Moving On...

The past weekend was my last at my current job/store. It was bittersweet, since I'm so excited to start my new job, but very sad not to be working with some of my favorites everyday. Ernie and the technicians working on Friday surprised me with Jason's Deli for lunch, yummy cupcakes, and a card. 

I made everyone promise me that they would call me every 5 minutes. They didn't seem to get the "Elf" reference, but they did promise to keep in touch. A few of us girls have plans to go out to dinner soon, and Dominiece and I are going to get together to play with our cameras. 

 Of course, I took my camera all weekend to take pictures with everyone. I only included the one with Dominiece because I know she (hopefully) won't care, and also because she can wake up 10 minutes before leaving for work and look better than everyone in the pharmacy. 

It seems silly, because they are all just a phone call or a short drive away, but when you work with someone 10+ hours a day, 3-4 days a week for months and months, keeping in touch on Facebook just isn't the same. I'll miss them lots. 

The Weekend I Met Bart Yasso

So, way back in the day (or about two years ago) I read a lil book called "My Life On The Run" by Bart Yasso. He tells amazing stories about his adventurous life- how he has traveled the world doing races, met tons of amazing people, and is now pretty much living the life. He didn't grow up running, either- he started in his twenties! Reading his book was the last push I needed at the time to start running. I told Brandon about how I wanted to travel the world to see all of these amazing places while running, too! After some encouragement from Brandon,  I went outside that day, ran one time around the block, and then almost died of shortness of breath. But I finally caught my breath, and haven't stopped running since.

So, yeah. I'm a huge fan of Bart. I look up to him a lot, and he continues to inspire me with his determination, hard work, and his passion for running (hello.... did you see the article about Comrades? The Amish?). In fact, when looking for a late winter race to keep us motivated during the cold months, my decision was made after I found out Bart would be attending the Little Rock Marathon. We signed up too late to be able to do the half, so we settled for the 10k.

I was so excited when we arrived at our hotel, I completely forgot to grab my copy of "My Life On The Run" when we headed to the expo. (Don't worry- we might get to meet him again at the San Francisco Expo this summer- I'll be sure to remember by book then)

Peabody Little Rock 

All I had was my race bib, so I asked him to sign it, take a picture with me, and be my best friend/lifetime running coach/cheerleader, then we chatted a bit about running. I could have stayed all afternoon talking to him and listening to all of his amazing stories and asking him tons of questions, but Brandon insisted that I play it cool.

Saturday night, we attended the pasta party just for fun- we had never been to one before, and we didn't have much else to do in the exciting city of Little Rock. Guess who sat behind me?

Yes, you better believe it! That is the back of Bart Yasso's head.

My parents- being the totally awesome, supportive parents that they are- decided to join us in LR for the weekend to cheer us on. We met up with them for a post-pasta-party dinner (the pasta party had great vegetarian options for me, but Brandon wasn't digging olive oil and noodles as a vegan option) and then decided to walk around the hotel to see where the Peabody ducks live at night.

We were heading up to our rooms for the night to get some good rest... and it just so happened that we got on the elevator with Bart!

No, I didn't get a picture of this fabulous moment. That would have been too weird, even for me. Brandon swears that I was powerfully speed-walking so that we "happened" to get on the elevator with him.

So?

Brandon and I had both been sick with the crud and a terrible, hacking, cough. I hadn't run in a week and a half. I hadn't even "trained" for the race, really- I've been proud of myself for doing 3 miles when it's 30* outside.

We went out to have fun, but we were both feeling pretty good that day, so we tried to pick up the pace a few times, only to come very close to getting smacked in the face by some vigorously swinging power-walker-arms. Eventually, we made it past the incredibly annoying people who sprint really fast for 0.25 miles then take walking breaks right in front of people who are still running. Next time, I won't under-estimate myself quite so much and line up at the very very back of the starting line.

I couldn't be bothered to put down my banana for a picture.

But thankfully, I made it through without coughing or sneezing on anyone (except for Brandon) and totally grossing everyone out. Our time wasn't what I had hoped- 1:13:something, and I was hoping for under 1:10:00, but my GPS clocked the distance as 6.4mi from all the weaving instead of 6.2. It was a really nice course, beautiful weather, and tons of fun. We are planning on going back next year, for sure!

I was so excited to finally meet the man who inspired me to begin running in the first place. I'm so thankful to him, because I feel so much healthier and happier now that I'm a runner. I've not only found a way to enjoy exercise, but I've discovered a real passion for the sport overall. I love that Brandon and I have something that we enjoy doing together, also. I could go on for days about how much I love running. And Bart. He continues to inspire and amaze me everyday in the way that he reaches out to every runner that he can to offer support and encouragement. From the greatest ambassador for running-

  
                                                                                                              

PInteresting Wednesday!

This is absolutely what I was thinking when reading the book... "I need to work out more so that I could survive something like this"

Source: loseweight-safe.com via Allie on Pinterest

Check out this reading nook.... it's in a closet! I need one of these!

Source: betterafter.blogspot.com via Allie on Pinterest

This is next on my reading list- 4 time Ironman winner.

Source: amazon.com via Allie on Pinterest

Speaking of Ironman... my goal this month and next is to get my quads more toned via..

Source: goodhousekeeping.com via Allie on Pinterest

After my workouts, I might just make some yummy treats like this with my Vitamix.

Source: foodformyfamily.com via Allie on Pinterest

I can't wait to see the newly remodeled Opryland... look how beautiful!

Source: graspingforobjectivity.com via Allie on Pinterest

And finally, I must remember this when dealing with a certain someone. I am an awesome person, and if you don't get that..... I'll survive.

Source: Uploaded by user via Allie on Pinterest

Actually, I'd like to end on a happy note, because I am a happy person, so here:

Source: facebook.com via Jacque on Pinterest

Fill In The Blank Friday

I'm linking up with Lauren @ The Little Things We Do for Fill in the Blank Friday!

1.  The highlight of my week was   hanging out with my beautiful baby niece... she just warms my heart with happiness!

2.   If I had to classify my interior design aesthetic it would be   so fresh and so clean (clean). No really- I do like a nice, "fresh" look, but mixed with a bit of coziness. Definitely not too traditional, but not completely modern either. Clear as mud, right?

3.  My first vehicle was   a white Chevrolet Cavalier. It was so cute, I miss it a little bit.

4. An item I need to have in my day in order to function is  lots and lots of beverages. Sometimes I don't have time to eat at work, but I must have a caffeinated beverage, and plenty of water!

5. My favorite way to waste time is  playing on the internet. I can waste so much time... reading Google reader, checking Twitter, playing on Pinterest, shopping (or filling my cart with things I want but will most likely not buy).

6. Right now I could really go for   some good health. I'm tired of being sick. This is like the third or fourth time this winter I've had a really bad cold (sniffles, stuffy nose, terrible cough). I'm usually not this sickly. 

7.  This weekend I will be   heading to Little Rock, AR baby! Brandon and I are running our first 10k ever (probably actually be jogging, to prevent ourselves from having a really cool coughing attack) and we get to meet Bart Yasso!

via www.bartyasso.com

Tag!

My sister, Kelly, at Handbags and Hairbows tagged me to do this fun post!

The Rules

1. You must post the rules.

2. Post 11 fun facts about yourself on the blog post.

3. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post,

and then create 11 new questions for the people you tagged.

4. Tag 12 people and link them on your post.   (Er, uh, All of the people in the blogging world that I'm friends with have already done this tag! )

5. Let them know you've tagged them!

Facts About Me

1.  I never used to like sweets that much, but over the last few years I've developed a love for chocolate. Only the good chocolate, though.

2.  Like my sister, I can also recite every line in every episode to FRIENDS. I've seen every episode multiple times.

3.  I played volleyball in high school- I was district player of the year, or something. 

4.  The best decision I've ever made was getting Phoebe. I've always always always wanted my own inside dog. She is my dream come true.

5.  I love to organize, clean out and label. It calms me. So does cleaning. 

6.  My husband and I have been vegetarians for almost 6 years now. My husband has been vegan for over a year- I'd love to be vegan, but I'm not sure I have the willpower. I'm working on it.

7.  I have always wanted to be a runner. Two years ago, I made myself try... and I've been addicted every since! Hopefully someday soon I'll be able to run faster, and get somewhat of a "runner's body".

8.  Peyton Manning is my all time favorite athlete. I came really close to meeting him one time, and actually met Tony Dungy in a mall!.

9.  I've always wanted to visit NYC at Christmas, and my husband and I were lucky enough to be able to go on our honeymoon! It was so amazing. And pretty cold.

10.  If I could live in NYC for a year, afford it, and still have a job when I got back to TN, I would totally do it. And if it weren't for the fact that all of my family and friends are in TN, I would totally move to California permanently.

11.  I am SO READY to own a house! I can't wait to do whatever I want to a place- and call it all my own. We are saving for one right now, but since Brandon is still in school, and we want to be really ready, it may be another year or so. But good things come to those who wait!

Questions From Kelly:

1.  If you could meet one famous person to sit down and have a conversation with, who would it be and why?

Hands down, Audrey Hepburn! She is such a role model- gorgeous, kind, graceful, humble, talented... there is so much I could learn from her. 

2.  If you had a day off with nothing that you HAD to do- how would you spend it?

Easy. Pretty much how I spend every one of my days off. I would sleep in a little.. till 7am. Eat breakfast in bed with Brandon, spend some time with him, go for a run with Kelly, play with Anniston for a while, come home to cuddle with Phoebe and Brandon while we watch TV or a movie, and relax with a glass of wine and a bubble bath. 

3.  What is your favorite fashion item that you own?

Hard Question!  My Kate Spade glitter clutch make me pretty happy. And it was my first major fashion purchase after I graduated, so it kinds sentimental. 

Source: katespade.com via Glitter on Pinterest

4.  If you were to paint your nails today, what color would you paint them?

The same color I paint them almost every time... some shade of purple!

5.  What was your favorite cartoon growing up?

The Little Mermaid!

6.  If you were given $500 how would you spend it?

Right now.. I might put it into savings. We are working on saving for a car and a house. But I would definitely have the urge to buy Adobe Photoshop, or go on a spree at J.Crew. 

Source: thunderinourhearts.com via Emma on Pinterest

7.  What is your least favorite chore to do?

Sweeping! I HATE sweeping. Even more than I hate cleaning the toilet. 

8.  What is your favorite website to visit?

When I have money to spend, J.Crew or Kate Spade. Otherwise, my google reader :)

9.  Do you prefer lipstick or lipgloss?

Tinted chapstick, is usually all I can handle.

10.  What is your best childhood memory?

The memories that make me most nostalgic are of me and my cousins playing at my grandparents house. We would climb the huge maple tree in the backyard and ride our bikes all around the neighborhood. My grandmother would always keep Squeez-Its in the fridge for us, and my granddaddy would always show us his coin, knife, and gun collections or WWII memorabilia and tell us amazing stories.  

11.  Where are you going to vacation this year?

Hopefully San Francisco, and maybe one other place. Haven't decided yet! 

I'm Pretty Sure This Weekend Couldn't Have Been More Perfect

I started off with a "4" day weekend, except the fact that I had to go into the office for my first meeting about my new job on Friday morning! Which I didn't mind that much, of course. Friday night, we went to play trivia, and had a blast!

Saturday, Kelly and I went to run in the morning, and did three miles. We played with Anniston all day, which was so much fun. She's really changed a lot in the last few weeks, days even. I would blow raspberries on her belly, and she would just squeal and giggle and smile so big!

Saturday afternoon, the Olympic Marathon trials came on TV, and Kelly and I watched them in awe. I was so excited that both of my favorites won! 

I am so excited for them, and so excited for the Summer Olympics 2012!

Saturday night, Brandon and I drove to Jackson to visit with my best friends, their husbands, and of course, baby Jax.

Sunday, Kelly and I pumped out an awesome 4 miler!  We played with Anniston more that afternoon, and she smiled at me, when I was just smiling at her. She's been smiling at Kelly for simply walking into the room for weeks, but this is the first time she's smiled at me just for being me. It melted my heart. 

Finally, there was good football on TV, and Daniel Radcliffe on SNL. Perfect, I'm telling you! Smiles from baby Anniston, good runs, good friends, and Harry Potter?!? 

Absolutely Perfect.