oh Ralph...

OH. EM.GEE.

I have completely fallen for the new Ralph Lauren Look Book and am secretly envisioning myself wearing the gold sequined blazer out to... ummm, actually anywhere- It's Gorgeous.. I'd rock it at the grocery shop

They definitely hit the mark this season and their collection is on point. I love the Sherlock Holmes meets Grace Kelly meets ultimate equestrian.

 I also love the inspiration boards they included in the book and I love the sketches for some of the various pieces. Take a look at my favorites or go here for more!



Swooning over this little baby...


 

Meeee-OW

 



attention foodies

Do you like to eat ?

Do you like to travel ?

You should read this.. and even if you know you won't be visiting Barcelona for the Foie Gras Raviolis or Dubai for their unbeatable Pad Thai... it's still a fun read. Plus, you can look up your favorite dishes to see the places that are well known for serving it... maybe a little extra incentive for traveling. Or you can do what I did and research the intriguing ones so you can host your own "feast of nations" dinner party.

Does anyone else think the description of Bangkok's Jok's Kitchen by Andrew Zimmern sound AH-mazing!!? What a fun little stop, but I guess it's not the place for spontaneity.. reservations are booked a month out??

The Dreaded Bloggeritis

Lately, I have been reading about a few people coming down with... dunh, dunh, dunh- the dreaded bloggeritis. Ok, I know bloggeritis is not an actual ailment.. but wrist problems are a big problem for all of you who are hooked up to your computer all day. I found this great article in Health Magazine about some of the common aches and pains that people experience. Plus, in addition to explaining the condition it also shows great stretches and other pain remedies you could use or talk with your doctor about. Another great idea is to purchase a hand wrap, and if you feel some tenderness starting, throw it on to battle the inflammation, hopefully the pain will stop there before it gets worse.

These are some warning signs that will tell you if things have gotten "worse"

~Inability to carry objects or use the arm~

~Injury that causes deformity of the joint ~

~Wrist pain that occurs at night or while resting~

~Wrist pain that persists beyond a few days ~

~Inability to straighten or flex the joint ~

~Swelling or significant bruising around the joint or forearm~

~Signs of an infection, including fever, redness, warmth~

enjoy the read

SOURCE

The definition of exercise

I don’t try to be a know it all,

but I’m sure I come across like one to some people… on some occasions. J But, it really isn’t the worst thing in the world- especially if you’re giving sound advice and genuinely trying to help someone. I love to learn things from people. Especially if it’s in an area that I’m not too familiar with.

I actually enjoy reading about new health studies and reviews of products that are new to the market. So when I come across something that would be good for my readers, I always pay it forward. That’s how I felt about this mini article I found in Shape Magazine.

For someone just starting their workout journey or trying a new exercise style , it can be a little intimidating being in a new environment. The fitness lingo can be hard to understand… and when someone is trying to give you instructions but really all you hear is Swahili, obviously there is some kind of communication disconnect. Below are some of the common terms that every fitness enthusiast should know.

So study up!! And show your trainer, friends or significant other that you know what’s up when it comes to your workout.

Exercise outside the Box

This month in the issue of Shape Magazine, there is a great article about alternative cardio workouts. It aims to inspire people to get outdoors and try new workouts, while also having fun. If you have a particular exercise that you do at the gym, the article gives some ideas of what outside activities would be an easy transition for you. I thought it had some interesting information and thought it might be beneficial for you, especially if you have any vacations planned this summer and the opportunities arise.. Hope you enjoy it.

Bonus: Product reviews and advice for your new workout, yay!!

Size does matter...

No, this isn't a post about those annoying info-mercials. This is something that you should use to educate yourself with. Most people don't know the proper amount of food they should be eating for their body size, and unfortunately people are eating way too much food.  Did you know that from the late 70's to today, the daily average intake of calories has increased by over 500 calories. If one pound of fat is equivalent to 3500 calories, then that equates to people gaining an extra pound PER WEEK!!! And if you aren't active enough to burn off those extra calories, then they just stick with you.

This article that I found in Fitness magazine, is all about the correct portion sizes and what you should realistically be eating in one sitting. There are a few tricks that I use when I'm eating out, because everyone knows restaurant portions are way too big. I know that the palm of my hand in equal to 3 oz and that my entire hand is 5 oz. I try to use it to measure my steak or chicken, so I know when to stop. Sometimes I ask for half of my entree to be packed in a to go box even before I've started my food. And my favorite is to always order a salad before, that way I fill up of healthy veggies while everyone is noshing on the bread basket.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend!! Get outside and go for a hike, bike ride or just a walk... The weather int he Bay is going to be beautiful, I know I will for sure be outside soaking it all in.

xx ciao

Summer INStyle

It's happening... all the magazines I love are starting to print all the best summer looks for this season. Just thinking of sandals and bright colors and sun dresses makes me all giddy inside. Although, I feel like the summer trends are very similar to the spring styles- just a little less of the blazers and a little more bikinis. I have been keeping my eyes on all the new outfit choices popping up in the stores, and makes me a little giddy seeing all the shades of blue that designers are using. In the new issue of Instyle they have a great spread featuring some of the pieces that you need to buy for the upcoming season.

I have my eye on the...

:: R.J. Graziano resin bangles- Even though I can't afford a tropical vacation this year, wearing these will make a regular night out seem special.

:: Banana Republic cotton pullover- The light weight cotton blend is the perfect alternative to a sweater on a summer night. Plus, I can never say no to stripes. :)

::Acacia Swimwear- all the styles featured. These bathing suits are HOT!!I don't think you can say no to any of the them. The blue Aztec print on the last page is my ultimate fav. <3

What are your Summer must haves?

It's that time of year...

Isn't April the month when people start panicking about getting "beach body" ready? I keep hearing, seeing and reading about men and women wanting to kick their workout program into high gear so that they can get their bodies in shape for bathing suit season. But, what I don't understand is why wouldn't you want to do that all year long? I know that in the winter people slack off when it comes to gym time because (lets face it) you're in sweaters and pants, so no one can really see the pudge sticking over the top of your jeans.

My Mom gave me great advice when I was younger... " You workout to stay strong and in shape and you eat right so you don't get overweight."

If you think about it, they are two different things. Because if you eat clean foods it reflects in your weight. And if you workout then you will always stay lean and fit. Have you heard of the term skinny fat? That's what you call a person who eats poorly but still wont gain weight.. WTH!!! not fair, but some people are like that.

What I want to say is that you should try to stay healthy all year long. Don't go "willy nilly" October through April and then starve yourself/spend 4 hours at the gym a day so you can bounce back into your summer body. I was reading the latest issue of Lucky and there are some fabulous reviews of different gyms to try across the country. I think that Lithe Method looks fantastic!! All of you near Philadelphia are very lucky to have the opportunity to try out that workout. I would feel like a regular Cirque du Soleil performer after only a few sessions. Plus using your own weight as resistance is a great way to stay lean and toned.

Check out the magazine scans and hopefully you can find a new gym in your area that tickles your fancy.

I wish I lived near Philadelphia

Those Nike shoes are the perfect color for Spring

I cant wait to try this smoothie

This year, try one of the new workouts. But once Summer is over don't go back to your old routine... keep up with your exercise plans and stay healthy all year long. That way you don't have to go through all the stress of losing all the extra weight next April. ;) ciao xx

The New Quicky

I have heard it a million times, and it is really hard to believe that no one has the time to exercise? I know that people have busy schedules- but the saying is really true: If it means enough to you then you'll find time to do it, right? Fitting in a little gym time doesn't mean that you have to spend hours on the eliptical; it just means that you should try to increase your physical activity-like squats on your coffee break, a walk on your lunch or crunches while you watch your favorite show. I'm not asking you to wake up at 5 A.M. and start running, just start with basics and fit them in when you can. The commercials are true that tell you to take the stairs or to park further away from the store you're shopping at. Even though they're cheesy, don't disregard them too quickly.

Motivation: If you are trying to loose weight, imagine that with every 15 minutes you jump rope- you are  that much closer to loosing a pound. If you are trying to be healthier, remember that with every 20 minutes you walk you can enjoy {guilt free} your favorite vanilla latte. Sometimes, people find motivation when they have a goal they're working to reach. I like to have a picture of Megan Fox (she has the best abs) close, so that when I get lazy after work I can remind myself that reaching my goal is important to me. And a 30 minute jog is only 30 minutes out of my day and I wont be tired after the first 50 feet- I'll feel empowered!!

In the new issue of Shape magazine, there is a great total body workout designed by Tracey Mallet, creator of the Booty Barre Workout. It has some great moves that especially target your arms. Perfect for all the tank tops you'll be wearing when summer rolls around- no more bingo wings for you mama.

What are some of your favorite quick fitness fixes? ciao xx

I like Juice, but not this much..

A lot of my friends having been on a "cleansing" kick lately and I have been supporting them (because that's what good friends do, right?) But then I got to thinking... and I am all about health... what if this isn't the healthiest way to detox your body? A lot of celebrities talk about the benefits of a good cleanse and brag about their personal favorites. After I did a little research here here and here I came to the conclusion that it's not as good as it sounds. How can dizziness, cramping and headaches (plus a million other symptoms) be signs that your body is performing well while on the cleanse?

I think that this plan stems from the same ideas people have about Fad Diets- They are just looking for a quick fix without putting in the work ( truthfully, I have been that person before) ;But you get out what you put in. The human body does operate like a machine and it is designed to breakdown food for fuel. So with-holding food from it is completely going against evolution. If you really do want to cleanse your body from all of the unhealthy food you've been eating lately- why don't you start with good food. I suggest (** I am not a registered dietitian- but I do a lot of research about healthy eating.) starting with this healthier detox plan.

Lowering your daily calorie intake- about 1500 for Women 1700 for Men depending on daily athletics.
Eat your vegetables raw- The longer food is cooked, the more nutrients and vitamins are cooked out, so swap in some raw veggies to harness all the goodness. If you steam your veggies you can still get the nutrients- and in some cases its assists your system with breaking down the food. sources here and here
Stick with lean white proteins- White fish, like Talaplia or Mahi Mahi. White meat, like chicken or Turkey. Or Soy, Whey or Tofu.
Cut out Startches and processed Carbs- Both are considered an inflammatory, so do your digestive system a break and try to limit your intake.
Watch the Fruit- Even though they're good for you, fruit is loaded with sugar and it just spikes your blood sugar when you ingest it.
Remember when your shopping at the store- stay close to the outer edge of the market to make sure that you are only picking up fresh ingredients, not boxed processed items.

If you are thinking of trying out this new fad, I really would suggest doing your homework first! And I don't mean a search on google of "benefits of a juice cleanse".. If you're too lazy to do your research, check out the article I have attached from Womens Health. It will give you some solid facts about a juice cleanse, and then you can decided if it's still the road you want to take to "healthy living".

Color up you Wardrobe

I love color.. nail polish, dishes, art, flowers... but when it comes to clothes I'm a little bit more basic. I choose neutral colors to wear and sometimes accent my outfits with pops of color. Now, I have been a little daring lately and I have been branching out when it comes to my clothing choices. I pulled some of my favorite shopping articles and inspirational magazine layouts in an attempt to help others like myself. If you like what you see in the articles- use them as guides next time you head to shopping. Or if it helps you to think beyond accessories then bring the colors in with more statement pieces- like blazers, jeans or sweaters.

Click on any of the images for larger viewing. xx

Oh for the L♥ve of Louboutins

I don't know why I am so in love with these shoes. Maybe it's the exotic designs or the beautiful materials and colors... orrrrr maybe its the sky high platforms or the fabulous red sole that just screams "you need to look at my feet now!" Whatever it is that makes these shoes so coveted; has obviously caught up with the rest of the world. Everyone from celebrities, to executives to fashion bloggers have been seen in the famous red sole.


I just got the new Marie Claire March issue and there is a great article about the man himself, Christian Louboutin. I also got the new Rachel Ray magazine and its full of great DIY projects. One, I like in particular is a paint project for painting the bottom of your shoes. Even if you wouldn't want to paint your shoes red in order to try and pass them for the famous brand. It's still a fun idea for spring- bright colors are all the rage right now.  wow, using that phrase makes me think of the 80's. Well, they say fashion always repeats itself, so I guess I'm keeping all my Spice Girl shoes.

Please enjoy this great article, but don't let it "inspire" you to embezzle money and buy a few pairs at Neiman's. you'll understand once you read the interview 

Have a great 3 day weekend everyone!! Yay for Presidents and Banking. xo




Marie Claire spread





Rachel Ray article