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The Weekender

December 16, 2018 by Hillary 4 Comments

Hi!

It’s been a really nice, low-key weekend around here, and as I am on my computer with a puppy snoozing at my feet, I felt inclined to share in this little space of mine I show up at every so often.

The Weekender

— The highlight of our weekend was, without a doubt, dog-sitting a 4-month-old miniature Australian Shepard, Georgia; Nick and I both fell head over heels. She and Koba have been playing non-stop, and aside from pee puddles in the house and needing to chew on all the things, the house feels even homier with the double dose of puppy love.

— I am planning to make these grain-free gingerbread chocolate chip muffins via Lexi’s Clean Kitchen in the morning. How could I not be excited about breakfast this week?

— It was a big week for Beautycounter! Get this: Beautycounter is the top trending beauty brand of 2018! Yes, that means people are Google-ing safer personal care products. We are making strides towards getting safer skincare in the hands of everyone, and it is so exciting! To top it off, Beautycounter also won the Corporate Social Responsibility Award to recognize our work in Washington DC fighting for better beauty laws. It feels pretty darn good to be a part of this movement.

— We are headed to cold Colorado on Sunday, and to say that we are ready to head West is an understatement. The mountains (and family time) are calling!

— Christmas came early in the way of a beautiful Omega juicer, and Nick and I immediately jumped on the celery juice train. Of course I want to juice more than stalks of celery, but I am very curious to see what the hype is all about. Seeing that I deal with chronic gut/skin issues, I am eager to see if sipping straight celery juice, in fact, has miracle healing powers. I recommend checking out @medicalmedium, the man and NY Times best-selling author behind said celery juice “movement.”

— We had the best quick lunch at Fresh Kitchen Saturday afternoon after a gym date, and now I want to eat all the mashed cauliflower – holy yum!

I’m off to snuggle puppies and get ready for this final week before a much-needed Christmas vacation!

xx Hill

Have you tried celery juice?

What holiday recipes have you been enjoying?

10 Wellness Instagram Accounts to Follow

July 5, 2018 by Hillary Leave a Comment

I’ll be the first to admit that I spend way to much time scrolling through social feeds, in particular Instagram. Don’t we all? I mean, I’d be lying if I didn’t say that sometimes I’ll watch Instagram Stories while say curling my hair or munching on breakfast. And laying in bed, mindlessly scrolling through my feed, well yeah… not a good habit in the slightest.

Social media is a double-edged sword: one of disconnection and connection. On one end, you can spiral down a deep hole of comparison. Filters screw our perception, and more often than not, they act as highlight reels. They can also be addicting, distracting us from living in the moment by focusing on how to share said moment via a photo, perfectly-timed boomerang, or video. On the other end, social media can be a tool of connection and inspiration.

I follow a lot of people on Instagram (ahem, 850+), so this is by no means an exhaustive list of my favorite accounts. It is simply a taste of some of the accounts I come back to again and again. An aestetically-pleasing Instagram feed is a work of art, really, and while I greatly appreciate branded accounts with eye-catching color schemes, the accounts that attract me the most are those that feel REAL. Those that inspire me to ditch the filters, and show life as it is.

These badass women inspire me on the daily, and are worth a follow. And while you’re at it, feel free to follow me on Instagram at @hillontherun ?

10 Wellness Instagram Accounts to Follow

@happyhealthypnw

Emily is a fellow IIN Health Coach, and an adorable one at that! Whether she’s popping up at 4:00am for an Orangetheory Fitness class, rocking a cute outfit, or creating killer (health) coaching programs, Em lights a fire under my butt to pursue my passions. She also lives in the hip city of Portland, Oregon (oh hi, beautiful Pacific Northwest!), and I’m only slightly envious of that.

@shapinup

Take one peek at Amanda’s feed and I promise you’ll get an immediate travel itch. Amanda is an American Expat fitness guru temporarily living in Barcelona, Spain. She continually inspires me to experiment with different kinds of exercise, enjoy a matcha latte, and embrace doing things independently from solo lunch dates to weekend trips (in a foreign country). Amanda’s feed is eye-catching and a must for anyone who loves food, fitness, and travel.

@katie_loveluck

I can count on Katie for a daily laugh. Seriously, all I have to do is watch her Instagram Stories and I am guaranteed to smile. Her sarcarcam isn’t like any other. She’s usually sharing something about her pets, her crazy curly hair, or the inside scoop on all things Charlotte (North Carolina) while sipping on an iced coffee. Katie encourages you to not take life too seriously.

@wellnesswithedie

Edie is a blonde-haired, blue-eyed Colorado-livin’ doll. She is also a health coach with an undying mission to help women love themselves through body acceptance and positive self-talk. Her feed is full of colorful, nourishing food and powerful reminders about self-acceptance that pull at your heart strings. Thanks for being the sunshine that you are, Edie.

@jamiemendell

Jamie is not only a self-care guru (and I’m not talking about manis & pedis here) but an intuitive living expert (my words, not hers)… but she is a Lifestyle Coach for good reason. While Jamie coaches women to be their own best friend and feel all the feelings, she simultaneously opens up about her personal life — most recently all that has unfolded with her cross-country move from NYC to San Fran. Jamie’s wisdom encourages me to be more in-tune with my myself, and that being REAL never gets old.

@laurcardarelliseib

Fitness enthusiasts, Lauren is your girl. Her feed is jam-packed with sweaty workout snippets that will make you want to get off your butt and move! Whether it’s hitting the gym, or running on a tropical beach, Lauren’s dedication to fitness is strong… like her core!

@shutthekaleup

You may know Jeannette already – as she has quite the following – but if not, I am happy to introduce you to this petite mama and health living queen. I wouldn’t say no to lunch at Jeannette’s house as her kitchen is a superfood haven. She’s a baller at meal-preppin’ real, wholesome food for her fam. Photos of her eats and exercise will spark your interest, but her vulnerability is what keeps ya around. She talks on her Stories like she’s talking to you. She’s not scared to share the tough stuff, and she is authentic as all get out.

@corinnedobbas

I guarantee you will feel better about yourself after scrolling through Corinne’s feed. A Food & Body Image Coach, she steers you away from any sort of restrictive, diet mindset and, instead, empowers you to love yourself — where you’re at, with the body you’ve got. She also is the host of the podcast, HeartSpace, which is worth a listen.

@musingsbymeghan

Meghan is a kombucha-sipping accountant by day, blogger by night who shares her musings in her own personal wellness journey. Her feed led me to her blog where I learned that she, too, suffers from SIBO (but has since kicked its butt). Connecting with others that are going through something similar is what these social feeds are all about in my opinion. Meghan’s feed captures her genuine approach to pursing wellness in her own life, without all the filters and fluff.

@constancelyeating

Connie is a 24-year-old gal taking life by storm — almost a registered dietitian with a masters degree, intuitive eating and movement is the name of her game. Her relaxed view on eating and exercise is refreshing. Wether she’s nannying, grabbing a margarita with a girlfriend, or cranking out college exams, this girl keeps it real through and though. Connie’s mature devotion to her passions and education will take this young gal far.

10 Wellness Instagram Accounts to Follow

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Who are favorites to follow?

Tuesday Tidbits | April ’18

April 10, 2018 by Hillary 2 Comments

Hey there. I’m back at it again. Did you check out yesterday’s post about my favorite finds from Trader Joe’s? Speaking of Trader Joe’s, I’m currently eating a slice of the aforementioned sourdough boule with the vegan kale, cashew and basil pesto + avocado and hemp seeds… just one of my many TJ’s meals.

On to today’s Tuesday Tidbits…

1 // It’s currently storming like mad: thunder, lightening, pour rain, the whole shebang. I’m curled up on the couch with the pup sleeping by side, as I do some work, and ice my shin.

2 // Today’s early morning gym workout included an ugly stumble doing box jumps. Damn, did that hurt. I think this is only my second box jump fail, but this time was much worse than the first scrape circa 2012 — the goose egg is monstrous.

3 // The Beautycounter Mother’s Day gift set launched today, and it’s a good one! The limited time Body Luxuries set includes my favorite citrusy body butter. It smells absolutely divine, and a little goes a long way. I definitely recommend this killer deal for introducing safer skin care to all the mamas in your life.

4 // It’s the beau’s birthday today. Celebrations will be low-key today albeit some homemade brownies and ice cream tonight, but the real surprise arrives this weekend — he has nooo idea!

5 // We’ve been running quite a bit, and by quite a bit I mean two to three times a week consistently. But I am not feeling it at this week. I had the idea that it would be fun for Nick and I to train for a half-marathon together, but then I remembered we’re approaching the hellish humidity that lasts all summer. Strength training and walks are what I’m craving. Got a set of dumbbells? Give this quick Dirty 30 Dumbbell Workout a try!

6 // I’m getting my haircut this Friday, and while I sort of want to cut it off into a lob and lighten it up (like this), this is my first cut with this stylist, so I think it’s better to err on the side of caution and do something minimal like a trim first. Speaking of hair, I am loving the Beautycounter Daily Shampoo & Conditioner (cue video).

Gotta go bake some brownies… ciao for now!

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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Progress Not Perfection

March 8, 2018 by Hillary Leave a Comment

Almond Flour Banana Muffins with Coconut steal the show, consistency performing as the most viewed page on the blog day after day. And it’s easy to know why. These muffins are ridiculously simple to make, low in sugar, high in flavor and healthy fats, and gluten-free.

I originally published this recipe almost five years ago in a descriptive blog post (my writing skills are a bit rusty now) accompanied by a few inconsistently styled photos that make me cringe.

I pull up this recipe on my phone nearly every week as it is a major stress-reliever having a nutrient-dense and satisfying breakfast option on hand (they store well in the freezer). I could nearly recite the recipe in my sleep, but I usually reference it to double check that I’m not forgetting an ingredient.

One of my goals this year is to play around with my Canon DSLR camera, and so I figured this recipe would be a suitable subject for practicing my skills. I have an immense amount to learn in regards to light, aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, but the only way I will learn and improve is by hands on application of trial and error.

I first photographed the muffins late afternoon which resulted in a set of distasteful, shadowy photos — ugh. Persistent to practice, I tried shooting them again in mid-morning light which resulted in bright photos that were more appealing to my eye, but far from perfect.

Almond Flour Banana Muffins with Coconut #glutenfree #recipe

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My point here is that practice what you are passionate about, and forget about perfection. Would most professional food photographers gawk at these photos? I presume yes. But when there is passion, persistence, and practice, there is a way.

I hope you’ll check out the muffin recipe if you haven’t already, and… if you add a handful or two of dark chocolate chunks, you will absolutely fall in love with this recipe and wonder why you hadn’t made it sooner — enjoy!

What is something you are passionate about that you’d like to practice?

What is your favorite muffin recipe?

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My Favorite Period App

March 5, 2018 by Hillary 2 Comments

Yep, I am starting off the week by talking about periods. So, if reproductive health isn’t your cup of tea, check out the workout of the week or perhaps read up on the first monthly recap of Florida livin’.

When it comes to my phone and apps, the simpler the better. I can’t stand clutter (anywhere in my life), and the same goes for my phone. Red app notifications, oh heck no. I like to think that I am clearing up space on my phone when I’m erasing data, and while that is true, I’m simply obsessive about eliminating clutter.

I keep my apps to a minimum. Nearly every day I consider deleting Snapchat (because Instagram is where it’s at), but the one app I won’t negotiate is my period tracker: Clue – Period & Health Tracker.

By the way, this post is not sponsored. I am just that into tracking my cycle.

My personal period story should probably be saved for another post in and of itself, but, in a nutshell, here’s why I am particularly conscious of my cycle. After suffering from amenorrhea as a teen (which involved seeing a pediatric endocrinologist at Stanford Medical Center), ignorantly messing with my hormones by taking spironolactone per the advice of a dermatologist to help hormonal acne in my early twenties, and then taking an oral contraceptive for three years, I have witnessed, firsthand, how both my lifestyle and medications have altered my body’s natural ability to have a regular cycle.

From absent periods in my teens due to low bodyweight (over-exercising and under-eating) to bi-monthly periods (on spironolactone), I am grateful that my cycle is currently “regular.” I say regular lightly because a regular period varies from one woman to the next; but, I celebrate the fact that my body has a period every 25 to 30 days, give or take.

Before I go too far, I realize that this topic can be sensitive, and as explained above with my own cycle complications, I have honest empathy for those who struggle with their monthly cycle. If you haven’t already, I highly recommend visiting Robyn’s website, The Real Life RD, for insightful and valuable information on women’s health and healing your hormones.

My Favorite Period App @clue #periodtracker

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For the past couple of years, my cycle seems to be running on its own month after month sans artificial hormones. So why do I use a period app? Well there is so much more to your monthly cycle than just your period. Female hormones are constantly fluctuating throughout the month which contributes to how you feel day to day, and are the blame for pesky PMS.

Did you know that PMS is not actually normal? It’s expected and stereotyped that women get irritable, have “mood swings”, and crave chocolate leading up to their period. And from someone who suffers from premenstrual symptoms, I can attest that these feelings are not “in our head.” What they are, however, are signals that something is off in our body.

Why PMS Is Not Just Part of Being a Woman

After working closing with a naturopathic doctor, I now have a better understanding of how hormonal imbalances can affect not only our cycle, but our health and wellbeing as a whole.

What Your Period Can Tell You About Your Health

Whether it’s tender breasts the week prior, irritability and high emotions (cue the tears) for a few days, or a headache the day prior to my period arriving, these symptoms that we have classified as “expected PMS” tell me that something needs tweaking. They are uncomfortable reminders that my body is not running optimally, and after all, that is one of my main priorities.

The Clue app allows me to not only track when my period arrives, but my mood, energy, skin (i.e. breakouts, hydration), as well as pain such as cramps, headaches, etc. It also has the option to track your cravings and digestion, body temperature, sleep, and more.

All in all, I track for personal awareness. It’s also helpful to have in your pocket when your doctor asks you when your last period was and anything else related to your cycle. For those who are truly gung-ho about their cycle, Clue automatically sends you an analysis of your cycle each month and has the ability to generate custom reports, too.

If you’re at all interested in your health (which I’m safely assuming you are because you’re here), don’t forget about your period, friends. If you haven’t given it much attention, aside from its monthly visit, think again. Using an app such as Clue may shed some light on patterns and symptoms of your cycle and overall health.

Now please excuse me, my PMS chocolate cravings are calling…

Do you track your cycle with an app?

Have you ever struggled with your monthly cycle?

Virtual Summer Coffee Date

June 30, 2017 by Hillary 3 Comments

Hey there and happy Friday before a long weekend (hello four days off)! I broke out my Toddy cold brew coffee maker this week and made a batch of strong (decaf) cold brew coffee for the first time in ages. It’s been hibernating in the back of my cupboard, but this summer heat has me craving all the icy cold beverages. Since I haven’t blogged nearly at all in 2017, there is oh so much we could catch up on. However, hopefully you’re itching to get your long weekend started (I know I am), so we’ll keep this virtual coffee date brief..

If we were having coffee this afternoon, I’d say that I am looking forward to a semi-spontaneous camping trip this weekend. Hiking, SUP-ing, swimming, campfires and sunshine — yes please!

If we were having coffee this afternoon, I’d give you update on my gut health. Since (finally!) being diagnosed with SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) this spring, I’ve fully dedicated myself to healing my gut. It’s been a long, tedious process; but, I am feeling better which makes me hopeful and motivated after struggling with with a multitude of symptoms the past couple of years.

If we were having coffee this afternoon, I’d tell you that I am eager to see Thank You for Your Service. If you would have said let’s watch a military movie a couple of years ago, I probably wouldn’t have been too interested; now that it’s a piece of my life, I’m tuned in.

If we were having coffee this afternoon, I’d probably talk about how freaking real Saturn Returns is (I’m a believer — keep reading…), and ask if you’ve experienced it in your life? My late twenties are making those terrible teen years look darn good.

The Skinny on Saturn Returns: What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger

If we were having coffee this afternoon, I’d disclose with the utmost vulnerability that I’m no longer engaged. In this rocky chapter of change and transition, I am choosing joy, gratitude, and to not be afraid of this new path that lies ahead of me.

If we were having coffee this afternoon, I’d share photos from my recent family vacation to Kauai. There’s something about tropical air and sea salt in your hair that soothes the soul.

Have a safe & happy 4th of July!

xo Hill

Virtual Summer Coffee Date

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Virtual Coffee Date I // Virtual Coffee Date II // Virtual Coffee Date III

Virtual Coffee Date IV // Virtual Coffee Date V

2016 Highlights

December 29, 2016 by Hillary 2 Comments

Alright, 2016… don’t be too offended, but I’m not overwhelmed with sadness to see you go. You were one heck of a challenging year. For that reason, I didn’t have the mental energy to show up to this space often. But, nevertheless, I dug up a few pieces of the good stuff.

Nutrition Nut on the Run | 2016 Highlights

Most Exciting Post | A Surprise-Filled Weekend in D.C.

Most Vulnerable Post | I am not my story.

Most Procrastinated Posts | I finished the travel post series from our mother-daughter European adventure.

Nutrition Nut Recipes of 2016 | 5 of which contain dark chocolate – go figure!

I could not be more ready for a fresh, new year. Wishing you all a happy, healthy and joy-filled 2017! xo

2016 Holiday Gift Guide | For Him

December 6, 2016 by Hillary 2 Comments

We started with a gift guide for the ladies and now we’ve got one for the gents — dad, bro, significant other — whoever you may be shopping for. These gifts were chosen with an active fellow in mind, though they can be tailored to suite most any type of guy.

Gifts for Guys

UGG Fleming Slippers | Cozy meets quality with these classic sheepskin slippers.

Nordstrom: 6% cashback with Ebates + free shipping

Bose SoundSport Wireless Headphones | Ideal for a gym-goer who’s tired of fidgeting with their headphones and having them hinder a workout. These sleek Bluetooth headphones are sweat and weather resistant, so they can handle a tough workout or outdoor run.

Nordstrom: 6% cashback with Ebates + free shipping

Snowboard Goggles | I’m no expert when it comes to snow gear, but a new pair of goggles would surely make the skier or boarder in your life a happy camper.

Backcountry: 4% cashback with Ebates + free 2-day shopping on orders over $50

Vega Sport Performance Protein | This is P’s favorite protein, and I never oblige when he requests more of this plant-powered, vegan protein. Aside from 30 grams of complete protein, it’s also loaded with recovery-enhancing tart cherry, anti-inflammatory turmeric, and probiotics.

TRX Home Gym Suspension Trainer | With the TRX system, you use your bodyweight + gravity to perform hundreds of modifiable exercises; it targets the core and helps to increase better mobility and stability. A TRX suspension trainer would make a great gift for any guy wanting to ramp up his fitness in the new year.

Insulated Kleen Kanteen | P and I both love our insulated Kleen Kanteens. I especially appreciate it in the hot summer months for keeping my post-workout coconut water icy cold. Kleen Kanteen is a local (to me) company, so I’m giving them an extra shoutout!

Smart Wool Socks | A stocking stuffer for the outdoor adventurist. Whether it’s hiking or playing in the snow, Smart Wool socks have got your feet covered.

Backcountry: 4% cashback with Ebates

New Balance Fresh Foam Gobi Trail Shoes | I love my light and cushy Fresh Foams in a major way. And while P isn’t into this particular style for men, I, nonetheless, think they make for a respectable gift under the Christmas tree.

New Balance: 10% cashback with Ebates + free shipping

2016 Holiday Gift Guide for Him

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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for your support and happy gift giving!

My 2016 Holiday Cards + Minted Giveaway!

December 5, 2016 by Hillary 21 Comments

It’s a merry Monday because a) P is home in T-2 weeks!, and b) I dropped my holiday cards in the mail today. I not only love creating seasonal cards to send out, but I get excited to see envelopes arrive in my mailbox from family and friends throughout the month of December.

I’ve used Minted the past three years to make our cards, and I’ve been extremely pleased with the product year after year. From the thick paper stock to the rich ink, crisp printing and free recipient addressing, it’s a no brainer what company I’ll most likely be using for our save the dates in the near future. The most time-consuming piece of the process is narrowing down which design I want to use from their extensive market of independent artists; but when I do, it doesn’t take much effort at all to customize my cards.

This year I went with an ornament style card: recipients can choose to hang the card on their Christmas tree – what fun! The cards arrived hole punched, so I simply had to tie on the pre-cut ribbon that was included.

The free recipient addressing also adds a classy touch and makes putting your cards together a breeze. Since I have a personal return address stamp from Etsy, I didn’t have to scribble anything with a ballpoint pen (a Type A’s dream).

If you have yet to make your cards this year and would like to try out Minted’s service, enter the giveaway below to win one of three $100 Minted credits.