Pleated Variety

Category: Lifestyle

  • Workout Wear

    Workout Wear

    I don’t think I can say that I love working out, but I do love the way it makes me feel. I strongly believe that working out is not only good for your physical well-being but also for your emotional well-being. I believe no one has ever regretted a workout. There’s nothing like those endorphins to start off the day! However, I have to admit that sometimes the hardest part can be just getting started. That’s why I like to plan ahead. I pick out a cute, comfortable, and functional outfit the night before, set the coffee timer, and get a good night’s sleep so I can crush my morning workout. Take a look at a week’s worth of workout wear and get some insight into how I like to approach my workouts.

    Monday

    Never miss a Monday! Well I try not to. I don’t have a strict routine, but I am consistent, which I find works best for me. So on Monday’s after the weekend off, I like to see what I am feeling. Be it a run, cardio bootcamp or strength training. A heart pounding workout to get the week going strong. And this little romper is up for anything. Literally!

    Tuesday

    Tuesday….not the easiest day of the week. So I committed to meeting a friend for a killer workout at Orange Theory. Knowing my friend will be there is all the motivation I need! A cute pair of leggings, crazy cushy sneakers and a no fuss tech tee keep me looking and feeling good so I can focus on the workout.

    Wednesday

    The mid-week home stretch. By Wednesday, I have likely done some sort of cardio and strength so I try to dedicate a day to stretch and tone. I have the Mirror and it offers so many amazing classes. From Barre, Pilates, Yoga and beyond. All I have to do is get dressed and pick the class. Once done, a nice long walk with the dog is my favorite way to finish my workout. Gotta get my steps in!

    Thursday

    Feels like a good day to get outside and go for a run on the trail. As the humidity creeps up I like to wear lightweight and breathable gear. An all white look has me feeling fresh and ready for my run!

    Friday

    Friday’s workout is all I need to get me ready the weekend. I like the idea of finishing out the week with a bang! Think tabata, the Peloton bike, or lifting weights. Anything to get my heart rate pumping! A cute set takes the guess work out on what to wear and it keeps me motivated to crush my workout and enjoy the weekend ahead!

    Saturday

    Ok , I know I said I take the weekend off from working out but does driving 4 boys around all day from field to field count as a workout? I say it does! This cute and colorful romper allows for all day comfort and keeps me cool in the heat. Bonus: My boys can spot me on the sidelines.

  • Hokas, a love story

    Hokas, a love story

    To be completely transparent, I resisted the Hoka craze for a longtime. They seemed like a whole LOT of sneaker and I wasn’t sure I could commit. Then it got to the point that everywhere I went I was seeing Hokas. It was as if they were taunting me…. “You know you are intrigued, lady. Come on over and check us out.” And I’m not going to fully admit that this next part of the story sealed the deal, but it didn’t hurt either. A few weeks ago I was at work and taking our puppy out for a walk. A group of college students live next to my office and they were coming down the walkway from their house toward the sidewalk in front me. They stopped to gush over the dog and as I looked down to make sure he wasn’t nipping their ankles what did I see?

    Hokas, Hokas, Hokas, Hokas.

    All of them.

    I almost tripped over the leash. They sauntered off to their car, because that’s what Hokas will do for you and I stood their putting the pieces together. I know 75 year old men who wear Hokas. I know 44 year old women who wear Hokas. And now I know not one, but four 20 year old college girls who wear them too.

    You win. Take my money.

    I went on Zappos and debated what color for way too long before going with something bright and fresh for spring. I had no clue if I would run in them, walk in them, strength train in them or just run errands in them. I didn’t know what I didn’t know. In true Zappos, form they arrived in a minute. I let them sit there in a the box for a few days which I later learned was a few days I will never get back. When I finally decided to slip them on, it was for my afternoon walk to the bus stop. I am trying not to be dramatic, but I’m pretty sure I floated there. The best way I can describe how Hokas feel is like it’s walking on cushy semi-circles. The “cush” factor is next level. If you put on your old sneakers and then put on your Hokas, your old ones will likely feel like bricks. And I LOVE my old sneakers, but I’m telling you, these Hoka-lovers knew the secret way before I did.

    And now I have officially become my mother. When I pass someone wearing Hoka’s I feel like we are friends. I stop and talk to them about their shoes, “OMG so good, right? How long have you had them?” Or if I’m in a rush, it’s like I still need to acknowledge that we are in the same “club” and give them a little nod and point to the shoe…. like the good old fashioned Jeep Wave but for sneakers.

    Ok so what else do you need to know? I think they run true to size and they have different styles for different needs. I have the Mach 4 which is apparently their tempo run sneaker. While I only have experience with this style, I will say it is VERY light. I assumed they would be heavy because they have substantial construction, but was pleasantly surprised that they are very airy. All of their shoes have a substantial base for a crazy smooth ride.

    After some quick research I found that the style with the most cushion is the Bondi 7, the most versatile sneaker is the Clifton 8 and their most stabalizing sneaker is the Arahi 5.

    The hardest part is choosing a color. I’m already contemplating my next pair. I might go bright and punchy (love the white/blazing orange combo). I want my Hokas to be seen in all of their cloud-like glory.

  • The Secret to Working Out More

    The Secret to Working Out More

    Ok maybe it’s not a secret, but what I am about to share works for me. I think I’ve mentioned before that I love change. It breaks up the monotony of life, can be thrilling, and often times allows us the chance to see things in a different light. Whether I’m changing my hair color, the throw pillows on my couch, rearranging furniture or even completing daily tasks in a different order… sometimes it can be refreshing and motivating to switch things up.

    The same thing goes for your workouts. If I did the same workout day after day, I would get bored, possibly dread it, and would be more likely to skip it. I pretty much do a different workout every day of the week just to keep things interesting. Sometimes it’s a long run, sometimes it’s a short run followed by at-home yoga sesh. Sometimes it’s a bootcamp, or maybe I’ll do a dance cardio (highly recommend even just for the giggle factor). What I am trying to say is, shaking it up is the best way to stick to it! It’s like every day is a fresh start, and who doesn’t love that?

    Another thing that motivates me to workout is cute, functional gear. For years I’ve been wearing Zella for their quality, price point, and super fashionable workout pieces. As we kick off a new year, I wanted to share some of their newest arrivals that make sweating that much cuter.

    Zella Studio Lite Ankle Leggings // Runs TTS (wearing XS for reference). These ultra lightweight leggings have just enough compression to hold you in and feature a high rise panel. The come in 4 fun prints to spice up your workout wardrobe.

    Zella Studio Lite Longline Sports Bra // Runs TTS, but I always size up in sports bra because, to me, there is nothing worse than a too-tight sports bra. I am wearing size small for reference. I love the longer length of this one so just a sliver of skin shows if not wearing a tank over top. If you like to wear tanks, I love this one.

    Leggings // Same as above in a different color!

    Seamless Strappy Sports Bra // This sports bra is perfect for low impact workouts or for girls like me who don’t need much support. Yes, I did dance cardio in this with zero issue! It also has removable pads to give a little shape. Again, I sized up to a size small.

    And another thing that keeps my workouts interesting? Working out with my kids at home. If you can do yoga and play kitchen at the same time…. tea anyone? Then you can do pretty much anything, girl!

    And who said they can’t help with weight training?

    Peaceful Fleece Open Front Cardigan // This cardigan is the perfect post-workout treat. It is crazy cozy and lined with the softest brushed fleece. It is one of those pieces that you will never want to take off… runs TTS.

  • Current Vuori Wardrobe + Father’s Day Gift Ideas

    Current Vuori Wardrobe + Father’s Day Gift Ideas

    I have very few routines in my life. No two days ever really look the same. Sometimes I brush my teeth first, sometimes I wash my face first. Sometimes I chug green juice, sometimes I just go straight for the coffee. There is no rhyme or reason to why I choose what to do, it’s just tapping into that intuition of what I think my body needs (or doesn’t). The only constants in my morning are: kissing my boys, putting on my workout clothes, and moving my body. I think if you ask my neighbor she would say that 99% of the time I show up to the bus stop in my Vuori. I get the kids off to school, take the dog for a walk, then go on my morning run. As we enter the warmer months, I’m still layering, but integrating more summer-appropriate pieces into my fitness wardrobe. Here are just a few pieces that make up my current Vuori favorites (plus some great ideas for Father’s Day at the end of this post!)

    Halo Essential Hoodie

    When they take the coveted DreamKnit™ fabric that we know and love from their joggers and turn it into a hoodie, you know I’m sold. The Halo Essential Hoodie is the perfect summer-weight layer. It cuts the morning/evening chill without adding bulk. In terms of length, it is slightly cropped – skims the top of your hips which makes it perfect for running in it as well as just wearing it in daily life.

    Cardiff Shorts

    I was drawn to these shorts for the look, and sold on all of the techy features. First, cute right?! Second, they are made from a combo of recycled materials and moisture-wicking, odor blasting elements. The scalloped leg opening gives a retro vibe which is a detail I always appreciate in running shorts. And before you ask, yes, there are pockets.

    Halo Essential Tank

    Minimalistic, but also exactly what I am looking for in a workout tank. The Halo Essential Tank is made from the DreamKnit™ fabric which means it feels good on your skin – no chafing! It’s moisture wicking and made for movement. It is slightly cropped so it pairs perfectly with the Cardiff shorts and any of their leggings without baring skin.

    And don’t forget the guys… (Father’s Day gifting!):

    Vuori clothing is always at the top of my list when it comes to buying gifts for the men in my life. Here are a few pieces I’ve bought for my husband/son/dad/father-in-law – that all went over very well!

  • The Power of She with Athleta

    The Power of She with Athleta

    As working woman and mom, I am constantly being torn in three different directions – quite literally. The women in “my village” have been the greatest support in these childrearing years with everything from carpooling to venting to those 7:45am reminder texts that it’s spirit day and the kids need to wear gray, white or maroon dependent on grade level (bonus points if it has the school logo). These years are hands on and I am constantly amazed, if I step back and think about it, by all of the things we manage on a daily basis. The “Power of She” is nothing short of remarkable.

    Weekends with four kids are pretty insane, but also the time of the week that I try to squeeze in a workout or two….and errands. My weekend wardrobe needs to take my from a run, to the soccer field, to the grocery store to the baseball field, rinse and repeat. It’s no wonder my friends and my mom (mother of five!) swear by Athleta. Their clothes are designed with top quality materials and tested on the world’s best athletes – crazy busy moms included. Whether you are working out, lounging, traveling, or just running around town trying to get all of the things done in never enough time (hand raised) they have something for you. Here are two looks featuring some new arrivals that are as versatile and functional as they are stylish.

    Look 1 // The Set + Tie Back Tank + Sweatshirt


    Matching sets are having a major moment and there was no denying this navy striped duo. After your sweat session throw on a tie back tank (a reader favorite style) or a cozy sweatshirt for freezer aisle survival. Take note of the crossover hemline – it’s all in the details that set these pieces apart.

    Look 2 // Joggers + Tie Back Tank

    The Aspire Pants are the pants you will want to live it. The fabric is super lightweight and insanely soft. It almost feels like you’re not wearing pants – ok maybe that sounds weird, but you need to try them to know what I’m talking about (just look at the ratings!). Not only are these great for those early morning sports games, but also amazing for travel or just running around town. The ruching detail gives them that perfect touch of femininity and flair.

  • Best of May

    Best of May

    We bought it, we wore it, styled it, put in in our homes and/or on our bodies…. and we LOVED IT! And then we shared it with you and you loved it too! The best of May awaits……

    Fashion:

  • Road Test: Why I Love the adidas Ultraboost 19 Running Sneaker

    Road Test: Why I Love the adidas Ultraboost 19 Running Sneaker

    Want me to name the reason I went for a run this morning? I kid you not, I walked upstairs this morning to find a roll of toilet paper streaming from the toilet paper holder through the center hallway into my son’s room and wrapped around the top and bottom bunk… and you want to know the kicker? NO ONE knew who did it. Well, kids, MUST have been our 13 year old dog. Some days there aren’t enough miles in my run to fully clear my head from the shenanigans that happen when living with 5 boys.

    As a runner I tend to put a lot of wear and tear on my sneakers, which means I usually go through running shoes pretty quickly. When I got the opportunity to partner with adidas for their new Ultraboost 19 running sneakers it’s safe to say I was really excited. Before writing this and taking any photos I took them for a test run (literally) to make sure they lived up to the hype, and let me just tell you…oh yes they did.

    I love that the Ultraboost 19 running shoes are lightweight but still have tons of cushion, support, and bounce (hello, “torsion spring”) for those long (and much-needed) runs. And for my fellow wide-footed friends out there, these fit like a glove and have just enough room in the toe box. The fabric is a 360 primeknit material which feels like second skin and hugs your feet during your runs. And with all of this cool technology, they couldn’t possibly be cute, could they? Think again….

    Wearing…

    Fellow runners and/or lovers of cool sneaks… these come in a cool NINE colors.

  • No Gym Required Work Out

    No Gym Required Work Out

    One of the most frequently asked questions I get in my inbox relates to how I stay in shape. I have always been an athlete and working out has always been a huge part of my life…. that is until motherhood. With four kids under nine, I have accepted the fact that now is not the time (for me) to be running marathons. Scratch that. If I mimic the steps of my 2 year old for 3 hours, it’s likely close. But in all seriousness, I struggle with finding the time to work out and getting into a routine. If I get 2-3 workouts in per week I call it a good week!

    But, you’re still skinny? How do you take off the baby weight? Diet plays a huge role in how I keep my body trim. I always say that I eat whatever I want, I just don’t eat a lot of it. Bacon egg and cheese from the Starbucks drive thru? I wouldn’t think twice, but I eat slowly and split it with my son and then continue to graze all day. My staple snacks are Lara Bars and cheese sticks, and most of our dinners are lean protein with some sort of vegetable. But every Friday we eat pizza, and another night is pasta. I truly believe that everything in moderation is the best way to live so you never feel deprived. And yes I am drinking a glass of wine at 10pm at night as I write this. Maybe if I went to bed earlier I could get up earlier and have time to workout more often but I digress….

    When my baby turned two a few months ago I decided that my husband and I needed to celebrate surviving the infant years (4x) with a trainer. We have never belonged to a gym so I chalked that up to money saved to be invested in a little kickstart. We were both having trouble getting back into a groove with consistent exercise, but if someone knocks on your door at 6:45am, you had better be up and ready! This has truly been the “kick in the butt” we both needed to jumpstart a more active lifestyle. They say it takes three weeks to create a habit and it’s so true – working out can be so addicting!

    I wanted to share a few things that our trainer, Adam, has taught me that anyone can do at home with literally zero equipment. Obviously when he comes there are bands and weights involved (if you follow on Instagram I post snippets of our workouts in my stories), but here I am sharing a workout I can do completely on my own.

    Below are a series of exercises that you can do anywhere in your home or in an outdoor space. I go through the entire circuit, take a 2 minute walking water break, then repeat 2 more times.

    Get Loose

    Start by running in place for 60 seconds….

    Butt Booster

    Walking lunges (up and down the beach) – 60 seconds

    Full Body Burpee

    The easiest way to test your fitness level… just do a few of these. 60 seconds of these is torture, but #yougotthis….

    Lines in the Sand

    Unleash your inner child with a little hopscotch session. Actually it’s more like a football drill. Do mini baby steps inside each square, then exit to the outside of the grid, and repeat on the other side by passing through another square. Confused? Just MOVE! And yes, for 60 seconds!

    The Perfect Push Up

    Work on the upper body with some simple push ups – do as many as you can in 60 seconds.

    Flip it and Reverse it

    Get rid of your flunken with this move – 60 seconds

    Core Strength

    Feel the burn with a few minutes in plank position – jk “only” 60 seconds!

    Celebrate

    Workout over… time to hydrate. Well, for 2 minutes until you repeat this entire circuit 2 more times!

  • Cold Weather Workout Gear

    Cold Weather Workout Gear

    I am going to give you three pieces of motivation to actually go for that morning run: Christmas cookies, Christmas cookies, Christmas cookies. And besides the cookies, I don’t think many people can disagree that the gift of a little alone time in the form of a 30 minute run is pretty….. priceless. Finding that time and bearing the unpredictable weather (ok, really just the cold) makes it challenging this time of year, but I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…. I’ve never once gone on a run and regretted it afterwards. For me, its mind clearing, mood boosting, and sets the tone for a more productive day. It also justifies an extra sip of wine/bite of cookie, but I digress. The hardest part about making those runs happen this time of year is simple: warm cozy bed, freezing cold outdoors. I repeat, warm cozy bed, freezing cold outdoors. The struggle is real which is why I fully support investing in cute cold weather workout gear that motivates you to want to work out AND keeps you warm. Nike has the best “no excuses” gear for all of your cold weather workouts. I especially love their Pro HyperWarm line – it has the coziest inner layer (without adding bulk!) to cut the wind, but it’s breathable and moisture wicking for when your body temp starts to heat up. It also happens to make the perfect gift for that person who SO wants to go on that morning run or play in that paddle match or even just take their kids to the playground but it’s just. too. cold.

    And if you are so lucky to work up enough of a sweat that you need to layer down…. how cute is the sports bra? Maybe it was the sparkles? Maybe it was the soft cups? Maybe it was both.

    And because we know there is never enough time, throw on a beanie and a hoodie until you have time for another small gift….. the gift of a long hot shower. Or 45 uninterrupted seconds. Either or.

  • Finding the Time to Workout

    Finding the Time to Workout

    Ok I used to be a lot better at this than I am now, so part of me is writing this for my own encouragement and maybe to get some tips from all of you. Before I had kids I would wake up at 5am at least 4 days per week to workout at the gym. These days I can’t even fathom 5am and come 5pm I am either driving to soccer practice, making dinner, or just too exhausted from the day to even consider a workout. Finding the time to workout has been a challenge and the easiest solutions is, well, just not to do it.

    Even the 9:30 classes that offer babysitting can be hard because some babies like to cry the entire time (hands raised!) and instead of de-stressing you are doing just the opposite. And now that I am working I’ve found myself thinking, “Well I don’t want to waste my working time on exercising” and when I am home with the kids, “I barely see them anymore. I don’t want to waste my time with the kids going to exercise!”

    When life is crazy busy, it’s hard to find the time to workout. For me, the number one reason I like to workout is for the mental clarity. It’s amazing what a 25 minute run can do for your mind. I can say with confindence that I’ve never come home from a run and thought to myself, “Man I should have NEVER went on that run.” NO! I always feel energized and reset and more prepared to take on the day. With that, here are a few tips that motivate me to lace up….

    1. Internalize the feeling of being finished a workout. Bottle it up. The next time you find yourself making an excuse not to workout, visualize yourself being done and how great you feel.
    2. When time is limited, resort to efficiency. Unfortunately my schedule doesn’t permit for 90 minute bikram classes followed by post class matchas and casual conversation. Ok maybe every once in a while 😉 My go-to efficient workout is a run. I can walk out my front door, be back in 30 and, the best part – it’s free!
    3. Don’t under estimate the power of workout clothes! Yes, sometimes I put them on with intentions of actually working out, and sometimes that workout never happens. Thank goodness “athleisure” is a thing! But if you never put them on, the chances your workout will happen are slim to none.
    4. When in doubt, mimic your kids a.k.a. MOVE! They never stop – have fun with shadowing them and maybe have a few laughs while your at it.

    And because we know time is so precious, the post work out shower doesn’t always happen right away.Sound off! How do you guys find the time to workout?