~ Cyber Pink Ultra Seamless Sports Bra: Gymshark ~ Cyber Pink Ultra Seamless Leggings: Gymshark ~ Adidas Tennis Shoes: GlitterKicks ~ White Scrunchies: Amazon ~

Happy Tuesday!!

I want to share a little bit about my workout essentials, some of the classes that I have taken, and share my wishlist! Fingers crossed that many of these fitness studios will open in the near future so we can get back to the grind with our favorite instructors.

GYMSHARK:

• Gymshark is my favorite workout apparel at the moment. I love it because it is affordable, durable, and trendy! Growing up I always had certain workout outfits that were my favorite and thats because I was only comfortable wearing things that were flattering to my shape. As of right now, Gymshark is totally my fit and I absolutely love the stretchy seamless fabric. For my body type, the seamless keeps me sucked in and the leggings stay up while I run. I think what differentiates this company is they provide high quality/cute products at a price that doesn’t break the bank. Yes, you could go to T.J. Maxx and get a few things for what a GymShark set is worth, but I know this brand is going to last a long time and I’ll feel great while wearing it. I look at it this way, I could get two Gymshark sets for the equivalent of one Lululemon set. Now, I can’t go into detail about Lululemon because I have never owned any of it. If you invest in the right material and brand it will likely last for a very long time.

GLITTERKICKS:

• I love GlitterKicks! I’m definitely a blinged out shoe kind of gal. My mom came across this couple’s website who started selling name brand shoes that add “glitter” or “bling” to them. These are super fun, but you do pay more for these than you would if you bought my Adidas tennis shoes above else where. My mom always gets my sister and I a pair for Christmas each year. I would consider these more of an “athleisure” shoe. I do not actually wear these to run in or during workout classes. I want my hips, knees, and ankles to have the best support possible, so I do go get fitted for running shoes to keep my body safe. Usually, I decide between Asics or Mizunos.

THE WORKOUT CLASSES I HAVE TRIED: 

Shred415 – This is my FAVORITE FITNESS CLASS EVER and I am currently a member at the Highlands location in Louisville. This is a 60-minute High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) workout with treadmills, free weights, and a deck. Here is my blog I wrote about my experience and progress with this type of cardio and strength training. Before the studios closed due to COVID-19, I would attend at least 4-5 times a week.

Solidcore – VERY INTENSE pilates-based resistance training! I love Solidcore and was a member for about six months during the time I lived in Indianapolis. There is not a studio in Southern Indiana or Louisville yet, but hopefully soon. It is a killer 50-minute workout that focuses on your slow-twitch muscle fibers. I usually went to this class 3-4 times a week and paired it with cardio and other training at my gym, Anytime Fitness.

F45 – HARD and FUN WORKOUT! Talk about a fat burner! I have only taken this class once in Indianapolis and it is a 45-minute sweat fest. This workout builds your lean muscle mass and includes a multitude of activities. These include: cycling, rowing, punching, pulling, twisting, kicking, lifting, squating, etc. You can read more about this on their website, which is linked above.

Pure Barre – LIFT YOUR SEATS! Talk about challenging! I couldn’t walk for a few days after I took my first Pure Barre class with one of my great friends. These classes are full of low impact-high intensity movements that will sculpt your muscles and change your body. Another thing that I love about Pure Barre is the amount of different classes that they offer. They have four different types and this allows you to move at the pace you are comfortable with.

Bikram Hot Yoga – HOT HOT HOT!! It has been a few years since I have taken a class. This was quite different from any class I had taken before. It was extremely challenging mentally and physically. The hardest part for me was getting my body to move… and move SLOWLY while sweating to death. Props to all of you hot yoga Queens and Kings out there because this is tough. To be totally honest, yoga is not my favorite, so I usually try to stick to more cardio and strength training type exercises.

WORKOUT CLASSES I WOULD LIKE TO TRY: 

• Cyclebar
• Ambition Fitness  (Women Only) 
• Orangetheory Fitness 
• Title Boxing Club
• Burn Boot Camp  (Women Only) 

 THINGS I USE BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER MY WORKOUT: 

• MyFitnessPal (I use this free app to track my food and water intake)
• RunKeeper (I use this free app to track my distance, times, and create goals)
• AirPods
• Yeti (20oz, I drink water constantly)
• G FUEL Keemstar’s Cotton Candy Energy Formula
• Alani Nu (I just started getting into this and will give you a full report of my favorite flavors for pre-workout and protein)

Keep moving your body! I am always open to new workouts, apparel, and products. Please let me know if you have suggestions. 🙂

Scarlett

 

 

 

 

 

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Meet Shipley! She is a full size Goldendoodle and I am going to share some Q&A about her. This is cheesy, but I thought it would be fun to switch up how I present my blog content. 😉

1. Where did her name come from?
   • Her mom and dad started officially dating and were frequent fliers in college at a cute little hometown bar called Shipley’s Tavern. They wanted to name her after something significant to them at Hanover College (where they both attended) and that was their favorite.
2. Date of birth?
   • May 1, 2019
3. Current weight? 
   • 70 Pounds
4. Favorite toy? 
   • Her shark (pictured above). She absolutely loves it!
5. Favorite activity? 
   • Playing fetch with her shark, going on walks (code word: Yogurt because she is starting to learn what W-A-L-K means as well), wrestling with her brother, and watching TV.
6. What fascinates her? 
   • Ice cubes coming out the fridge, bubbles, and when mom and dad throw the football in the backyard.
7. Who are her puppy best friends? 
   • Her brother, Yadi (Frenchie) and her Biological sister, Jetta (Goldendoodle). Shipley is a lucky girl because her parent’s best friends picked out her sister the same day. They have play dates about every month.
8. What are her dislikes? 
   • The vacuum, trash bags, the leaf blower, going up steps, climbing in/out of car, and any delivery person that comes to the door.
9. Where does she get groomed? 
   • PetSmart
10. Where did she receive her puppy diploma from? 
    • Flying Feet Agility in Floyds Knobs, IN. I highly recommend dog training there if you live in the area.

Cheers to you Shipley! We love you!

Scarlett

 

 

Dress & Dwell PROMO CODE: Scarlett25 for 25% off your purchase!

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Mother’s Day is right around the corner and I received notice from my followers that they need some gift ideas. Below is a list of a variety of gifts depending on how your family typically handles Mother’s Day. My family always likes to come up with crafty or unique sentimental gifts. I have compiled a list of my recommendations. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. 🙂

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms and motherly figures that impact our lives everyday. Your love, sacrifices, humor, and support means the world to us and we are thankful to have such empowering role models in our lives. Cheers to you!!

1. SHUTTERFLY PHOTO BOOK
2. LEGACY BOX 
3. FLOWERS
   • These don’t have to be expensive, I always find beautiful roses at Kroger which are pictured above.
4. CADELLA’S PERSONALIZED GIFTS
   • Use code MOMLOVE for 30% off regular price jewelry. Offer ends May 2nd.
5. ROWENTA COMPACT VALET CLOTHES STEAMER
   • This may sound like a lame gift, but this is the best steamer!
6. A PUPPY 
   • Whether you are the adopting type or have a favorite breed, now is the perfect time to get a puppy trained and acclimated to their new home. 🙂 PLEASE NOTE: I would not gift someone a dog unless they have clearly stated that they want one and are ready to take on that responsibility.
7. PORE VACUUM
   • There are a bunch of different brands on Amazon varying from $29-80, so you have a multitude of options.
8.  MASSAGE ENVY MEMBERSHIP
9. GIFT CARD TO GET A FACIAL OR MASSAGE 
   • Fingers crossed these services are open to the public soon. If you are from the Southern Indiana or Louisville area, I would be happy to give you recommendations.
10. AIRPODS
    •  I just received a pair for my birthday and they have made my life so much easier when it comes to work, running, online fitness classes, etc. Highly recommend!
11. APPLE WATCH
    • I personally don’t have one, but everyone raves about how great and convenient they are. I feel like this would be super helpful for all of the super moms out there that are always on the go.
12. JEWELRY
    • Kendra Scott, Brighton, Pandora, Alex and Ani, David Yurman, John Hardy, Tiffany & Co
13. COZY KIT 
    • Women’s Cross Band Slippers, Capri Blue Candle, Scalp Massager, Plaid Blanket, Weighted Blanket, Natural Woven Storage Bins
    • Wine, tea, or coffee would also be a great addition to this basket. This is something you could build yourself and if you don’t want to order online you can find similar items at Target, Meijer, etc.
14. SPA KIT
    1. Dermaplane Scalpels, Guarded Blades, Aveeno Daily Scrub Exfoliator, Aveeno Moisturizer, Glow Recipe Face Mask
    2. The Aveeno products linked above can be found in drug stores. I wanted to share items that you could find quickly and that are affordable. Make sure the moisturizer is used AFTER dermaplaning.
15. WINE CORK HOLDER
16. DYSON VACUUM CLEANER
    •  You cannot go wrong with Dyson, they have been wonderful from what I have experienced.
17. STITCH FIX GIFT CARD
18. CUSTOM NAME NECKLACE 
    • I think these are great for your own mother, or a cute trend is to put a baby’s name on the necklace for a new mom to have on her first Mother’s Day.
19. ANOVA CULINARY SOUS VIDE PRECISION COOKER 
    • I have multiple family members that have this exact Sous Vide and it is wonderful!! Your filet’s will come out as close as one can get to Jeff Ruby’s or Ruth’s Chris at home. Highly recommend if you have a mom that loves to cook!
20. CHARCUTERIE BOARD AND WINE KIT
    •  If you are in the Indianapolis, Southern Indiana, or Louisville area I recommend the Board & You Mother’s Day Box. Buy her favorite bottles of wine and pair them with this Secura Electronic Wine Opener. Here are some cute amazon “wine time” napkins to add to her personal kit.
21. WEEZIE
    •  luxury women’s long bath robe, luxury women’s short bath robe, bath collection
22. PERFUME
    •  Here are links to some of my favorite fragrances that either myself or other family and friends have used in the past.
    • Miss Dior, Chanel Gabrielle Essence, Coco Chanel Mademoiselle Toilette Spray, Marc Jacobs Decadence, Carolina Herrera Good Girl, Gucci Bloom, Tom Ford Black Orchid
23. 100 REASONS WHY WE LOVE YOU JAR 
    • My sister and I did this for Father’s Day and it is super easy to make. We typed out the 100 reasons, printed them, cut them separately, and then decorated the jar.
24. PICTURE COLLAGE ON WOOD LETTER 
    • Buy your mother’s first or last initial and use Mod Podge Matte to get your pictures to properly stick and conform to the shape. Here is an example of what it could look like.
25. UNIFURY CANVAS PRINT
26. GIFT CARD/MEMBERSHIP FOR HER FAVORITE WORKOUT STUDIO
27. ROBERT WICKER TEAR DROP HANGING SWING CHAIR 
    • This was a reasonably priced swing chair that I found. There are so many options on the internet to fit your preferences.
28. PELOTON
29. SUBSCRIPTION BOX 
    • Here is a list of 32 subscription boxes that Harper’s BAZAAR recommends for women. Check it out!
30. THE GIFT OF TIME
    • This is my favorite idea of all because it cannot be bought. I realize this is challenging right now due to the current circumstances in our world with COVID-19, but even if you can’t physically be present with your mother, a Zoom call would be great. Have a virtual brunch or dinner date. I think spending quality time with your loved ones is one of the most precious gifts anyone can receive.

I hope these 30 ideas/items allow you to figure out the perfect way to celebrate your mom on Mother’s Day. It’s a special day and I believe during times like this it is even more important to show your loved ones how much you care about them. Everyday we have with one another is a gift and that is why it is so critical that we do not take any day for granted.

I love you, Mom!! ❤

Scarlett

~ Smocked Chiffon Floral Peasant Top: Forever21 ~ Blue Jeans: Dress & Dwell ~ Jewelry: David Yurman, Michael Kors, & Plunder Design ~ Not ready to make a David Yurman investment? Here are some David Yurman dupes on Amazon!

Happy Friday! How has this week in quarantine gone for you? Whether you are an essential worker on our frontlines or someone who is working remotely with the entire crew at home, just take a deep breath and reflect for a minute on the past month and a half…………

First, THANK YOU to all of our front line workers who are putting their lives at risk everyday to keep our community healthy!! You deserve all the praise in the world and just know people are thinking about you everyday and are greatly appreciative of your service.

I always come up with blog topics, themes, or captions before I ever bring them to fruition (aka a photo). This one is close to my heart and I am quite excited to share. I realize the longer the blog, the less people will read, so… bear with me as I put a little more passion into this one. TLDR is featured at the very bottom if you don’t have a lot of time. 

On Friday, March 13th (six weeks ago and an ironic date) my supervisor called me in and communicated that we were officially going to a remote schedule for our safety. At the time, I was thinking, “I’ve worked remote before, I can handle it” (one day a week at my previous job) and obviously knew we were making the best decision to keep everyone safe. I wasn’t necessarily thinking about the long-term effects and drastic impact Covid-19 would have on our lives. I soon began to realize that what was once considered to be “normal” may not ever be the same for many months and possibly even years. Obviously, Covid-19 has changed our world forever and we must be prepared to embrace our “New Normal” with an open mind. 

In no particular order, here is a list of things that I have learned to appreciate and have helped me maintain a sense of positivity during Quarantine 2020. 

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS. I’ve always been a huge believer that the little things in life are the most special. Let me explain…

1. I have always been a busy body and always have something to do. Being able to say “no” is one of my flaws, but I have learned to be more selective and keep my priorities in check over the past year.
   
2. It’s nice to have a reason to stay home and just RELAX. I’ve bonded with my family, my boyfriend, and my two precious pups more than ever

I CAN’T WAIT TO HUG MY GRANDPARENTS AND FAMILY MEMBERS. We can all relate to this necessary “social distancing.” A new word that has surfaced in connection with Covid-19. For those of you that know me well, you know my family is super close! I am accustomed to casually stopping by my grandparent’s house for a visit, having impromptu lunches, going on fun shopping dates, and initiating FaceTime calls about random things. However, this has not been possible and I look forward to these fun times again when it is safe.

I CAN’T WAIT TO HUG MY FRIENDS. I foresee many wine nights, bachelorette parties, brunches, pool days, bridal showers and weddings in my future. I know that this situation will not last forever! I will definitely continue to live my life to the fullest. We all can relate to how easy it is to take these special things for granted. ZOOM CALLS have been a fantastic way to keep up with my friends. Many of my close friends don’t live nearby, so we have decided to continue the Zoom calls beyond the days of Covid-19 Quarantine. 

I HOPE YOU GO ON THE ADVENTURES AND VACATIONS YOU HAVE POSTPONED. 

1. Traveling has always been something I am super passionate about. I personally think it’s critical to invest in life experiences that will help you to explore and better appreciate the world around us. I have been blessed with parents who value the benefits of world travel at a young age. The older you become, the more difficult it is to get away from life’s responsibilities. My parents have always believed that traveling is an important aspect of EDUCATION. Exploring new countries and cultures allows one to learn more about themselves, to understand implicit bias, and to appreciate what makes different cultures and humanity unique. 
2. 2020 was a huge year for so many of my family members, friends and myself in regard to life’s celebrations, unique travel experiences, honeymoons, or other special adventures. Two of my biggest trips of 2020 have been postponed, but God always has a plan and I recommend you start researching bucket list destinations and make a plan for the future. 

My DOGS BARK MORE OFTEN THAN I THOUGHT.  Apparently we have crazy, harmful, unseen, intruders that come to the door multiple times a day….. What???? These would be known as the wind, the rain,  the delivery people, the postal workers, the sanitation workers, the Zoom audio, etc., etc… I could go on and on…LOL! These precious pooches are always on guard and ready to protect their family!

I REALIZED HOW MUCH MONEY I SPENT ON “LIFE.” I’ve always kept a budget, but wow! I didn’t realize how much money I had been spending on “life” in general. Quarantine has squelched many activities and I didn’t realize how much I had been spending on gas, going out to dinner, meeting friends for cocktails, visiting my favorite salon….. it’s amazing how much money this adds up on your monthly budget. Now, I don’t regret these fun activities for one minute as that is the beauty of life, but this definitely puts things into a different perspective for me.

I MISS BEING PHYSICALLY PRESENT AT CHURCH. This unprecedented time sure makes one appreciate his/her faith. I think it’s incredible that the majority of churches have the resources to provide online streaming of mass or services, but I sure do miss going into church with the spirit of the congregation and the beautiful music. Online is great to connect us with our faith, but it’s just not the same. Prayers that we can gather together again soon. 

I ACTUALLY LEARNED THE RULES OF CHESS.

1. This sounds lame, and some are thinking, it’s not that hard, just read about it. THIS is one of the “little things” that I put off while my life was “so busy” over the past two and a half years. My boyfriend and I played this on one of our first dates and I didn’t have a clue what I was doing. For months, I told myself I would learn but never got around to it. Well, guess what? I got around to it and my boyfriend and I have been playing chess and enjoying wine almost every evening. We have had more fun doing this! 
2. We are also fans of many other board games. If you need recommendations. Just let me know and we’ll be glad to share our favorites.Get off your phone and just have some good OLD FASHIONED FUN. You won’t regret it!

SUPPORT LOCAL, I REPEAT SUPPORT LOCAL! I have always tried to do this in general, but it’s critical now more than ever. Please support your local small businesses! We want them to survive. 🙂 

IT’S OK IF YOU DON’T COME OUT OF THIS WITH GRAND LIFE PLANS AND “A NEW YOU.” I’ve read quite a few articles suggesting that you have “failed” if you don’t come out of quarantine refreshed, “a new you,” or don’t have new grandiose plans for your life. Let’s just pause for a second! You do what’s best for you during this time. Many people are facing various challenges with unemployment at an all-time high, children learning virtually at home, parents working from home, family members are ill, childcare is limited, anxieties are high…Please, take care of yourself and don’t read too much into these social pressures. YOU ARE FANTASTIC ALREADY and everyone has their own path and plan. Quarantine 2020 is a time we will never forget. Let’s pray for a vaccine and that our healthcare system can stay strong. Our American Spirit is strong and we will make it through this pandemic together! 

Thank you for joining me on my quarantine reflection. Below are some quick bullet points on things that have made me smile or kept me very positive through this time.

TLDR; Things that have kept me positive during quarantine: 

• My support system
• Creating an updated bucket list for myself and one for my significant other and I to have together
• Virtually Volunteering (Please let me know if you would like to learn more)
• Zoom cocktail hours with family and friends
• Exercise-virtual classes, runs, walks
• Playing golf (Golf courses are still open and have taken CDC precautions)
• Online Church Services 
• Walks and fetch with my fur babies 
• Trying to teach my dogs tricks 
• Playing board games 
• Fragrant candles 
• Getting ready occasionally (Even though I don’t have anywhere to go)
• Advancing my cooking skills (VERY MINOR)
• Supporting local small business through curbside pick-up (Restaurants, shops, etc. )
• Refreshing or cleaning your household 
• Reading new books, articles, etc. 
• Online browsing (Notice I didn’t say shopping LOL)

Stay safe and keep the faith! 

~Scarlett