Friday Favorites // May 2019

May 24, 2019 by Hillary Leave a Comment

Hi & happy Memorial Day Weekend!

It’s been a while since I just sat down and wrote, on my own blog. With my new Virtual Assistant work, I’ve been spending a lot of time writing and doing work behind the scenes for other blogs (which I love!), but I haven’t given my own space on the Internet much attention at all.

It happened to be be a bit of a slow, relaxing Friday morning over here, so I used that time to make an appearance here. Well, we did wake up early to take Koba to the vet (that precious pup is more high maintenance than her mom!), but otherwise, we don’t have much planned for the long holiday weekend ahead.

Friday Favorites // May 2019

Speaking of weekending, last weekend we made the trek up to East Tennessee (Knoxville area) for my friend’s wedding weekend. We camped at the venue (her in-law’s beautiful 27-acre piece of property) and had an absolutely amazing time. The long and straight 10+ hour drive up Interstate 75 each way was well worth it.

We spent the weekend disconnected from all schedules and screens, enjoying much-needed time in nature. Mosquito bites aside, our first taste of the lush Tennessee countryside was a really good one!

bonfires & beersbee / camping & canoeing / full moons & fireflies / fresh margaritas & fire pit roasted chickens / turtles, toads, tents & (handmade) teepees / muddy dogs & marriage vows

Fitness

I feel like I’m in a bit of a fitness rut or plateau. Since ending my Orangetheory Fitness membership, I’ve resorted to home workouts, which can be totally effective and fun no doubt, but don’t get me as excited about exercise as say going to the gym. Honestly, what I’m enjoying most right now is walking with Koba; but, they have to be timed just so with the weather or else she’ll turn around after a few blocks. Running is rarely appealing these days, which I think, again, is mostly due to the summer climate in the Southeast. Funny, seeing as though my blog is Nutrition Nut on the Run and much of the content on here since 2009 has been about running and training. Things change!

For now, it’s home workouts and walks and a short run (or occasional workout at the base gym) here and there.

Lately, I’ve been getting lot of my workout inspiration from @madeline_moves – check her out!

Food

Now that it is officially hot and humid every.damn.day in Florida, I’ve been craving all the light, fresh foods. It’s also my goal to get back into the kitchen and get out of my cooking rut now that I’m working from home. I have a feeling these falafels and my mom’s tabouli recipe will make an appearance again this summer.

Other favorites: these gluten-free crackers, this green juice, this vegan pesto (ALWAYS in our freezer!).

Fashion & Beauty

Blue Light Blocking Glasses

I got this inexpensive pair of blue light blocking glasses (“influenced” by @katie_levans) from Amazon. Now that I’m working from home and am in front of screens (too) many hours of the day, I figured a cheap pair of kinda fun (kinda dorky) glasses wouldn’t hurt to help prevent digital eye strain.

NOBULL Runners

I have been wearing these sneakers non-stop since I got them for Christmas. Nick told me just recently that I need new shoes because I wear them so much. They are very comfy (perhaps a bit loose around my ankles), and they’ve been my go-to for walks, (infrequent) runs and workouts.

High Neck Sports Bras

I am so glad high-waisted pants and high-neck tops are in because they’re my jam. It’s honestly what I feel best in currently. I recently found a few high-neck sports bras that I love to pair with my high-waisted leggings: the Lululemon Energy Bra Neck Neck and this striped Athleta bra.

Ursa Major Go Easy Daily Shampoo

I’ve been using this shampoo for a few months now and I’ve been really happy with it. In recent years, I’ve struggled with having a happy, healthy scalp; but, this shampoo and doing my best to wash my hair less frequently has been helpful. Ursa Major is a clean brand that Beautycounter supports. Double win!

Beautycounter Glow Shimmer Oil

I didn’t think I would be into this product, as I’m not a glittery person, but my winter white legs adore it! I mix a few drops in my moisturizer and it gives my skin a subtle bronze boost (and hint of shimmer) it so desperately needs. You can use on your face and in your hair, too. No toxic self-tanners needed here!

>> Beautycounter Memorial Day Sale – To celebrate Memorial Day, Beautycounter is offering 2 FREE Countersun products (our reef-friendly 3oz. mineral sunscreen mist + 1 oz. mineral sunscreen lotion, $35 value) with any purchase of $125! The offer is good through Tuesday, May 28.

Have a wonderful holiday weekend/unofficial start to summer!

xx Hill

Any fun Memorial Day Weekend plans?

Do you have any favorite high-neck sports bras?

August Favorites

September 1, 2018 by Hillary 3 Comments

Tonight, Nick and I were standing outside on our back deck as chicken was grilling on the BBQ and Koba roamed the yard; we looked at each other with the same look — the look of “OMG, we are so grateful to be outside and not be smothered by sweltering hot humidity.” Y’all, September is here, and I couldn’t be more excited. Why? Because it means fall, my favorite season of all, is around the corner. I’ve heard that fall isn’t drastically different from summer here in Florida… but I can dream, right? You can bet come October 1, I’ll be decorating my house with all the autumn things.

Before flipping the page to another new month, I want to share a few favorites from August: wellness things, life moments, inspiring words, and the like!

August Favorites

⏤ This post from Jessie May: My Vegan (Health) Story. After sharing a personal update/brain dump on my own health (read: E.coli 0157:H7 | How It Changed My Body & My Life), this beautifully written story gave me refreshing insight on how I can view my own wellness journey with more grace.

…health isn’t everything. Its wonderful, helpful, and enjoyable to be in good health – absolutely. But it doesn’t deserve to be an idol it our lives, as so many of us make it to be, and here in America it is incredibly idolized. Being present in your life for what it is today, being grateful for all that you do have, and giving your love and attention to others is really so much more important. Yes you need to take care of yourself in order to love and serve others well, and it should be apart of your life, but (in my opinion) it should not be your life.” – Jessie May

⏤ Birch Benders Paleo Toaster Waffles: While I by no means eat strictly Paleo, or any other label for that matter, I have been enjoying these grain-free/dairy-free (and no added sugar) waffles for an easy, satisfying breakfast. I usually top with nut butter, seasonal fruit (in lieu of sugary jam), and hemp hearts.

⏤ Orangetheory Fitness: I hopped on board the OTF train one month ago, and I’m having a ton a fun with it! My body is constantly being challenged, and the endorphin highs have been a blessing. Read: My Thoughts on Orangethoery Fitness

⏤ Avocado Egg Salad: For some reason, I’ve been craving egg salad (yes, like egg salad sandwiches) ever since Nick made one recently. I simply chop a couple of hard-boiled eggs and mash with ripe avocado, a few chopped Kalmata olives, and Trader Joe’s Everyday Seasoning. Top on rice cakes, a piece of toasted sourdough, or wrap inside a piece of butter lettuce.

⏤ Setting Intentions & Accomplishing Goals: This past month, I set the intention to do more things that make me feel good… and I did just that. How? I set small, manageable daily goals, wrote them down (key!), and then checked in daily with my new accountability partner. It didn’t seem like much day to day, but looking back at the month, I accomplished personal goals by allowing my priorities (the things that make me feel good!) to be my focal point.

Wishing you all the joy, inspiration, peace, clarity, and determination to make September shine!

xx Hill

What were your August favorites?

Blast from the past!

⏤ August Favorites 2013

⏤ August Favorites 2012

What I’m Loving Lately | June 2018

June 1, 2018 by Hillary 2 Comments

Hey hey, happy Friday & happy JUNE! I’m definitely excited about this month as it includes another trip to Cali, the official start to summer, and my birthday! ☀

Before we get the weekend started, I want to share a few things that I’m lovin’ lately.

First things first, breakfast. I stumbled upon these paleo toaster waffles at Sprouts, and I’m obsessed. I’ve been trying to reduce my grain and sugar consumption (yet again) in order to heal my gut, and these are surprisingly good. I don’t typically crave savory breakfasts, so a couple of these topped with nut butter, sliced strawberries, and hemp seeds is my new favorite way to start the day… with collagen coffee of course.

Another recent food find is this Deep Dark Blackout Organic Chocolate by Alter Eco®. While I’m trying to reduce (key word) my sugar consumption, I still enjoy breaking off a piece of a quality dark chocolate bar on the daily. This bar is ridiculously smooth, buttery, and flavorful! It’s definitely a new favorite, and I hve tried a lot of 80+ percent cocoa dark chocolate bars.

This isn’t anything revolutionary, but I’ve been all about roasted potatoes. It helps that I finally figured how to cook them to perfection: cut up into fairly small pieces, toss in avocado oil + Trader Joe’s Everyday Seasonsing, and roast at 425F for 45 minutes. A hot oven makes all the difference.

What I’m Loving Lately | June 2018 ☀

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I can’t help but laugh at this one as I reminisce of my 16-year-old self and distressed Abercrombie & Fitch jean jacket that was a staple in my high school wardrobe… but, I recently found some cute finds at both A&F and Aerie (American Eagle). Thanks to killer Memorial Day Weekend sales, I scored a few new pieces for summer that were affordable and will probably last me another 12+ years. 😉

Lastly, I announced earlier this week that I am now offering customized skincare consultations as a Beautycounter Consultant. This is an individualized skincare consultation that allows me the opportunity to tailor specific Beautycounter product recommendations to fit your unique skin care needs. This complimentary service is for anyone who is interested in Beautycounter – whether you are a past, current, or prospective client. I would love to help you make the switch to safer skincare enjoyable and rewarding! Click here to complete the skincare questionnaire; I will follow-up with you personally with customized recommendations based on your answers.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Chat soon,

Hill

What are you loving lately?

Any new food or fashion finds?

5 Tips to Spring Clean Your Life

April 6, 2018 by Hillary Leave a Comment

Truth be told, Spring is not my favorite season (Fall is by far my favorite). Yes of course there are many wonderful things about this time of year, including budding blossoms and bluer skies, but for the past few years I’ve battled with seasonal allergies (I am currently broken out in hives), and they are a drag. I also tend to feel my thickest or heaviest during the spring/early summer – which makes little sense to me – but it’s an unfavorable pattern I’ve noticed. Petties aside, spring is undoubtedly a time to rejuvenate our lives with positive energy after a long winter that my have bogged us down.

One spring “trend” I can get behind is spring cleaning. If you didn’t know, I am a clean freak, minimalist, organizer, and persistent purger. I don’t leave spring cleaning to the second quarter of the year, rather you’ll find me cleaning out my closet and whatever other cupboards I can get my hands on all throughout the year. I don’t think spring cleaning needs to be left to your closet clutter, however.

This season is a time to weed out anything that is not serving you – thoughts, habits, relationships, emails, schedules – anything that is cramping your style. I encourage to do a little cleaning to make space for positive and fresh inspiration to grow — whether that’s a little more room in your closet, a few less emails in your inbox, or toxic relationships that steal too much of your energy. Here are a few tips to clean up and make room for peace of mind and serenity this spring.

5 Tips to Spring Clean Your Life

1 // Clear Up Your Calendar

I live by my color-coded Google calendar. If your calendar, whether it’s electronic or on paper, is stressing you out from being over-scheduled (and you, under-rested!), say no to social engagements and extracurriculars that don’t “fill up your cup.” If that’s easier said than done, at least schedule “me time” on your calendar – whatever that looks like to you. Writing it down will make it much more likely to happen. When you fill up your own cup, you will have more energy to give to your work and others.

2 // Swap Your Skin Care

If you’re wanting to clean up your health, don’t forget about your skin care and beauty products — questionable and harmful ingredients aren’t just found on food labels, but in your personal care products, too. Did you know that the European Union bans over 1,400 harmful chemicals from cosmetic products? How many do you think the United States bans? A mere 30! But Beautycounter is doing something about that by providing high-performing products that exclude over 1,500 questionable or harmful ingredients. Hello, safer skin care!

I encourage you to skim The Never List™ and then spend 10 minutes looking at the ingredient lists on your personal care products. You can even download the EWG’s Healthy Living App to assist you. Then, chose at least one product to swap out for a safer alternative.

After reading my ingredient list on my shampoo, I swapped it out for Beautycounter’s Daily Shampoo & Conditioner — my hair feel soft and clean, and it has a delicate citrus scent.

3 // Get Outside

If you’re like me, you might be a bit apprehensive about spending time outdoors during allergy season. But after a dark and cold winter, sunshine on your shoulders will inevitably boost your mood. Whether it is a hike, walking the dog around the neighborhood, a 15-minute backyard workout, or eating a meal al fresco, a dose of Vitamin D is good for anybody (just make sure to wear your SPF).

4 // Purge Pictures & Apps… and emails, too!

Clutter doesn’t have to be physical. It’s hiding on your phone, your computer(s), and all of your other devices, too. Whether it’s 10 minutes or one hour, block off time on your calendar to delete unnecessary files — all that data is takin’ up space somewhere. Delete apps, empty your trash, clear your browser caches. If your email inboxes are an eye sore, try using an unsubscribe service to manage the mess by mass elimination.

5 // Mellow Out Your Mornings

Chronic stress is good for nothing. Getting a handle on it can be as simple as managing how you start your mornings. This will look different for everyone, but maybe it’s sitting in a comfy chair as soon as you wake and spending five minutes meditating or focusing on your breath. Maybe it looks like keeping your phone out of reach until after you have sipped half of cup of collagen coffee technology-free, or maybe it is taking a few minutes to write down your intentions for the day. I’ve been enjoying The Five-Minute Journal for such.

5 Ways to Spring Clean Your Life

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Friday Favorites

March 30, 2018 by Hillary Leave a Comment

Hey there, happy good Friday!

I want to share a few favorites… unlike last week’s post, Loving Myself Through A New Season of Life, we are going to keep things light and upbeat today!

Without further adieu… a few Friday Favorites!

Kombucha & ‘kraut // I am loving the limited edition Pure Love flavor of kombucha — the rose flavor is on point. And Nick and I are both devouring the sauerkraut from Trader Joe’s. Two delicious sources of probiotics.

Beautycounter Body Butter // This moisturizer is not greasy or heavy, yet it’s rich and hydrating (and you don’t need to use a whole lot). I love it on my hands, feet, legs… just about everywhere! It has a dreamy citrus scent, like an orange grove, that is light and energizing.

Beautycounter Rejuvenating Toner Pads // I crave this step in my skin care routine. I seriously can’t use one of the pads soon enough after cleansing my face. My face feels so refreshed after every use, and I think I owe my skin’s softness in part to these guys.

Army Green Manicure // I’ve been wanting an army/olive green mani for-ever and I finally found the perfect polish: Suzi – The First Lady of Nails by OPI. I am definitely going to get a pedicure with this color soon, too!

Paula the Palm (a.k.a our first house plant) // I hope I can keep it alive, as I have not been known to have a green thumb.

This article // The Last Conversation You’ll Ever Need to Have About Eating Right — Mark Bittman & David L. Katz

“Beans are really, really, really good for us. Identifying compounds in beans that are potentially “toxic” is like noting that air contains oxygen, which can be toxic.”

I hope you have a wonderful weekend! Did you know there will be a Blue Moon Saturday? It’s the second full moon in March.

Ciao for now!

Hill

I’d love to hear about your favorite, too, if you’d like to share in the comments below.

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Favorites Lately

March 11, 2018 by Hillary Leave a Comment

Sunday, you’re my favorite. I just finished off a pan of the ultimate grain-free brownies, and I have the urge to write — right here in this sacred little space.

Getting into this ol’ blogging thing after a bit of a hiatus, I’ve been told that you should focus on evergreen content – that stuff that is timeless and your audience will want to come back to over and over again (i.e. this muffin recipe) – but, sometimes I simply want to write about my weekend or what I’m loving lately, and that is okay. Because while surely there is a method to the madness that is blogging and “online influencing”, authentic, casual, conversational writing has its time and place, too.

Favorites Lately

The Five Minute Journal // While adjusting to life in Florida is going better than I honestly expected, it is not all rainbows and butterflies. I hate to break it to you, but Instagram is just a highlight reel. This little journal has been my daily morning and evening “meditation”, prompting me to set intentions and reflections for each day.

Beautycounter Plumping Facial Oil // This face oil smells absolutely uh-mazing. The scent of jasmine is luxuriously calming. I have been adding a few drops to my morning moisturizer, as well as using it at night on top of a retinol serum.

Beautycounter Volumizing Mascara // Hello, big bold lashes! I usually opt for a lengthening mascara, but this has been a fun change. I don’t wear much makeup at all, but I literally get excited to put on this mascara.

Homemade Waffles // Well, waffles aren’t exactly a new favorite, but I’ve been enjoying making a double batch of waffles on the weekend (using this gluten-free baking & pancake mix) and freezing the leftovers to have on-hand for breakfasts. Today, I added cinnamon and almond extract to the batter, mmm!

Costco Finds // I’ll admit this doesn’t scream enticing, but Costco has delivered lately for this health nut, including: 48oz. bags of almond flour for $12.99 (which I use regularly for baking), fresh organic blueberries, organic dark roast coffee beans, and avocado oil.

Favorite Reads //

How to Seed Cycle + Why You Should For Glowing Hormone Health — The Chalkboard

A Letter to Myself & Anyone Who Needs It — Ambitious Kitchen

I hope you’ve had a restful weekend albeit the time change. I’ll be honest, I didn’t realize it was Daylight Savings until Saturday evening. Ready or not, I always appreciate the extra hour of daylight.

Have a great week… hopefully I’ll catch you over on Instagram! xo

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Friday Favorites // May 2019