Happy Friday. I am packing up to head to Tennessee to lead yoga teacher training at VIDYA this weekend. I haven’t seen my group in almost six weeks so I’m looking forward to diving back in with them. We have much to cover this weekend and it’s going to be a good one! I’m also looking forward to the drive up there through the Blue Ridge Mountains and getting to see all of the fall colors. I’m going to give myself some extra travel time today so that I can stop to take it all in. I’ll snap some photos to share!
I have a few Friday favorites (and not favorites) to share before I take off.
NOT FAVORITE: VIBES IS CLOSING
While we are on the subject of yoga studios, I’m sad to share that one of the studios that I work for in Charlotte is closing at the end of the month. I started teaching at Vibes in January 2019 when I came back to teaching yoga after an extended maternity leave. I taught hot yoga and strength training classes at Vibes, and also led a 200-hour yoga teacher training there in the summer of 2020 and had another planned for January 2021.
The management, staff and members of this studio are nothing short of amazing and this ending is a difficult one. The pandemic has been really hard on brick and mortar fitness businesses and we’ve seen multiple studios close in Charlotte over the last year and a half.
FAVORITE: PUMPKIN CURRY SOUP
On a lighter note, soup + toast is my favorite fall lunch. I didn’t have time to make a pot of soup last week but I grabbed this Pumpkin Curry Soup at Whole Foods and it was really good.
Here are the ingredients. It looks pretty simple – I may try to recreate it at home soon.
Also, the toast in the photo above was from Verdant Bread. I discovered them at the Matthews Farmers Market and I am HOOKED on their loaves. Their breads are all sourdough based and so rustic, chewy and flavorful. They sell at the farmers market but you can also do curbside pickup at their Monroe Road shop on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. If you’re a sourdough lover in Charlotte, highly recommend trying them out.
NOT FAVORITE: DOGGIE GI ISSUES
Zoey’s tummy has been out of wack for the last week. She’s had diarrhea on and off which has meant some middle of the night wake ups to take her out and some 4a carpet cleaning. She has mostly been her normal happy self, playful with Benji and all about the ball. She’s also been wanting to eat and drinking plenty of water so I decided to try and treat her at home. It seems that a bland diet has done the trick. I started with just white rice cooked in chicken broth and after she tolerated that for a day or two, I added in plain ground chicken and fed that for a couple more days. She seems to have made a comeback.
I am interested in learning more about homemade dog food and incorporating it into their diet more often.
Also, my dogs are obsessed with these bones. They also like this shape. These bones are great for dogs that love to chew and last a really long time.
FAVORITE: BALAYAGE REFRESH
I had my balayage refreshed recently for the first time since my initial appointment back in early June! I have still been doing roots every six weeks or so but it was nice to be able to go four months between balayage appointments from a time, cost and not wanting to process my hair too often standpoint.
I see Terra at Salon 42 and love her. My last appointment was a little bit of a time-crunch for a few different reasons so I got a two-person blow-out that was very fast and efficient!
FAVORITE + NOT FAVORITE: CRACKING MY APPLE WATCH SCREEN + GETTING A NEW SERIES 6
I dropped my Apple Watch a few weeks ago and cracked the screen. While I was frustrated in the moment, it was a great excuse to upgrade. My previous watch was a plain black base model Series 3 without a lot of bells and whistles that I’ve had for over two years. I ended up going with the Series 6 in gold with a pink sport band. I ordered it from Walmart where I was able to save $50 on the watch. I’m loving the lighter and more feminine watch color and the upgrades in technology that come with the 6. I am a little bummed that Apple released the 7 right after I got this watch because I am interested in the bigger and more durable screen and faster charging time (and this moonlight color is awesome) but oh well.
NOT FAVORITE: A HACKED CREDIT CARD
The day I added Apple Pay to my watch and linked my credit card, my card was compromised. I had erroneous charges that I did not make starting on that day from someone up in Michigan. The first question that my card issuer (Citi) asked when I called to report was “have you set up a new digital wallet in the last few days?” I haven’t done a ton of reading or research on it but he told me that while Apple Pay is generally safe, especially when using it on your phone and laptop, they’ve had some issues with the watches. Just a head’s up for you guys. It was so bizarre as I set up the new watch in Florida in my grandmother’s condo on a secure WiFi connection. Technology these days is bananas.
FAVORITE: CURRENT FAVORITE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE RECIPE
I am always on the hunt for good cookie recipes and recently I’ve been loving this chocolate chip cookie recipe from Pinch of Yum. What initially drew me to try the recipe was that it doesn’t require you to refrigerate the dough. I have made the recipe as-written and it turns out well but I actually do prefer rolling my dough into balls and freezing them on the sheet for about 20 minutes before cooking. It really helps with the fluffiness and texture. I love cookies with a soft and chewy texture.
I also made this recipe for Chewy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies a few weeks ago and they were wonderful. Sally’s Baking Blog is one of my top go-to’s for good baking recipes.
FAVORITE: RUNNING (AND CROSSFITTING) AT 74 YEARS OLD
I adored this post from my friend Teri about her mom who is 74 years old and still running races and CrossFitting. 10/10 recommend reading if you need a dose of motivation and inspiration to keep moving! Had a smile on my face the whole time!
MY FOREVER FAVORITE: FINN
I leave you with a photo of my forever favorite and his little BFF. Finn is all about Halloween this year and every time you ask him what he’s going to be, the answer changes. I’ve heard dinosaur, pumpkin, monkey and witch in the last week.
Off to Tennessee. Have a nice weekend!
QUESTIONS
Have your fitness habits changed since the start of the pandemic when it comes to working out at studios or gyms? I am super interested in hearing about this from you guys.
What is your kiddo going to be for Halloween? Are you dressing up?
Any homemade dog food resources or tips?
*This post includes some affiliate links.
1) our pup has that same bed and we are about to get another one for another room in the house. Thanks for the bone info – we’ve got a STRONG chewer on our hands.
2) we are at the end of a LONG intestinal parasite situation with the pup. two rounds of meds – just a heads up that may be something Zoey has.
3) I used to make food for Scout when Purina changed their food formula and she became allergic. I used my crockpot to cook alot of chicken thighs at one time. I would then shred the meat and bag them in portion sizes. I would make a big batch of rice and freeze same way. Then, I would use the remaining broth and add items to create huge batches of stock for my freezer to use on whatever I needed it for. win – win all the way around!
isn’t the bed the best!? we love it! Sending prayers that your pup is all healed up from the parasite situation. I know how long and hard that can be. Zoey seems to have made a full comeback!
Thank you so much for sharing about my mom! She really is amazing!! <3
She’s incredible, Teri! And the fact that she brings eggs when she flies to see you is just the best.
As for gyms/fitness studios and the pandemic, I did cancel my membership to a large chain gym that I was a part of. When they continued to charge fees before I felt safe returning to in-person settings, it just didn’t make since to continue paying for a membership. I think if it were a smaller studio/gym that I had more of a relationship with someone working there, it might have been a different story in terms of how safety protocols were communicated and what financial options were.
I’m sorry to hear the yoga studio is closing! I know that must be difficult for everyone who worked there or enjoyed attending the classes. I hope the community is able to stay connected in another way moving forward.
I hope Zoey feels better soon – plain canned pumpkin in something we often add to our dogs’ meals when they are having GI distress, and it seems to help!
I get that, I would have done the same thing with the big gym. It is hard for the studio to close, especially from the community standpoint. These are really transformational times in the fitness industry. I’m interested to see where it all shakes out.
Zoey is feeling much better! And we did do a little pumpkin! 🙂
I’m sorry to hear about Vibes, Jen. I know this has been a really tough time for the fitness industry.
I will be brutally honest, though, and say that I have found more consistency and success with my transition to at-home workouts. We were really put off by some of our local gyms/fitness boutiques’ lack of enforcement of hygiene guidelines, and ended up purchasing a Peloton when Delta really kicked off. I hate to say it, but has been so, so much easier to fit in workouts this way. I don’t have travel time, can customize the length and intensity of my workout, and can adapt my plans at the drop of a hat. I’m also not spending money on late cancel fees when work or other obligations get in the way. I also don’t have to worry about catching an illness, covid or otherwise, which was always a huge problem for me in winter months when people would come to the gym sick.
I could see myself going back in for drop-in classes as a treat, but I’ve gained back so much more time with the home workouts that I think it’s better for my overall well-being (more time for family, leisure, and healthy meal preparation).
Hi Diane – I 100% appreciate your honest response. I am so interested in hearing where people are with fitness right now and where they see themselves moving forward. I am glad to hear that you’ve found more consistency and better results with home workouts. That is awesome for you!!! I can totally relate to the time-saving aspect of working out at home as it’s a two-hour ordeal for me to go and teach a one-hour class. Everything you say about saving money, having more time for other healthy habits, reducing germ exposure, etc resonates with me.
I can relate to doggie GI issues. My fur baby has IBD and it took us a year to get it diagnosed and on a good diet/medication routine. She still has flare ups but nothing like before and ALWAYS poops in the middle of the night!
My workout routine has definitely changed since pre-pandemic! I used to go to the gym 3x/week on my way into the office and I’d go to the yoga studio 2-3x/week and run outside occasionally. Now I’m working remotely full time so I don’t go to the gym at all and I’ve decided I’m not ready to return to the yoga studio either. My new routine is 3x/week running outdoors, 2x/week yoga at home (I have an online yoga membership with my usual studio) and 2x/week of a dumbbell routine I kind of made up. I expect it I’ll make some changes when I go back to the office in January but I’m really happy with this routine and the results I’m able to get at home!
Oh no, I’m so sorry to hear this Katie. I’m glad to hear that you have it mostly under control. It is wonderful that you’ve been able to find a consistent workout routine at home that you enjoy and is giving you desired results. And so great that you can keep membership with your local studio to take virtual classes. Thank you for sharing!
Hi Jen,
Finn is just so cute! I can see the tween he will become before you know it:) I have been so impressed – as always – with your vulnerability and willingness to share what’s real with us. I’m sending so much love to your family and to your brave mom. And through it all, you keep up with healthy living and inspiring all of us. Sending you wishes for a beautiful fall weekend. Your students are so lucky to have you. I’m sorry about Vibes closing. That has to be so sad. xoxo
Thank you for your kindness, Pamela. <3
Canned pumpkin really seems to help in getting my dog back to normal and regular. The last time we dealt with this was after going away and truly think it was the anxiety of being apart that impacted his tummy. It really is SO draining having to clean up indoor accidents, and I hope that Zoey is back to normal very soon. <3
I NEVER worked out at home pre-pandemic but ended up doing 100% at home workouts when everything closed down. The barre studio I attended had an option to switch to an online streaming membership, and it’s been eye opening how consistent I’ve been able to be with at home workouts and how much I’ve enjoyed them! (Never would have though this was my thing pre-pandemic.) The studio has now opened back up but the class times I frequented before haven’t been added back yet (11am or 4pm on the weekends & 6:45pm, 7:15pm, 7:30pm on weeknights. I understand a lot of people have more freedom to work out at lunchtime now or earlier and those probably weren’t the most popular class times to begin with, but it just hasn’t made sense for me to switch back to an in-person membership when the classes at 6:30 am, 12pm, 5:30pm just aren’t great for my working from home schedule :-/ I’ve done ClassPass drop ins occasionally while keeping my online membership. I appreciate that my online web subscription is at least set up through the studio I love. The past year has been a lesson in time management and not wanting to waste time driving or scheduling in-studio workouts that ultimately are stressful to the flow of my day.
Yes, we did a bit of canned pumpkin in addition to the rice and chicken. Thankfully, she is back to normal!
It is so wonderful to hear that you’ve been able to find such a consistent and efficient workout routine at home. And yes, the right class times are everything when it comes to getting to classes. I love group fitness but totally relate to what you say about the travel time as it’s two hours out of my day just to go teach one class. Thanks for sharing! <3
Pre covid, I used to do the gym 4-ish days a week with a combo of classes and individual cardio workouts. I would often go to a hot yoga class with a friend on Saturdays. Before that, was a regular at group fitness classes (jazzercise for a few years and stroller strides for 2 years). During covid, I now work out at home with the peloton app (most of the pandemic), every mother app (recently as I’m 11 wks postpartum), and take walks and hikes (throughout the pandemic and now). I’m seriously considering getting a peloton bike as I build back my strength and endurance postpartum. I’m not sure I will be comfortable going back to the gym for a long time with a newborn given all we have learned about aerosol spread of diseases, and I get so much more time and flexibility to work out now that I can do it at home! I thought I would miss the gym, but I really don’t. Now, when I have a two or three-year-old and want a break during the day, I may rejoin for the childcare. ? And more
immediately, once everyone in my family is vaccinated (I have 3 kids total) I would like to start doing some boutique fitness classes again here and there. I am still very much limiting my activities until then.
This all makes so much sense Sarah. In your case, it sounds like a Peloton might be something you get a lot of use out of. I can’t imagine the logistics of getting out of the house to take boutique studio classes with three small children COVID or not, and totally understand how you feel on the vaccines. Congratulations on your new baby, and I love that you are being so mindful about following a postpartum fitness plan. <3
I’m so sorry to read that Vibes is closing. I’m not in NC, but I took a few of your classes online during the pandemic and truly enjoyed them (and was so thankful for an online option!)
Most of my workouts are outdoor runs, but pre-COVID I also had a gym membership. I ended up cancelling it because I still do not feel comfortable in a crowded gym where most people are not wearing a mask. I have a few sets of dumbbells of different weights that I use to strength train at home a few days/week. I was attending one or two Pilates classes/week, but when they made masks optional I stopped going for now. So my workouts are mostly outdoor runs and if I strength train, it’s at home. Like others have said, working out at home is also much more convenient.
I have also been thinking about upgrading my Apple Watch! I think I can trade my current one in and receive some money towards my new one, but I really want to see how big the new screen is before I decide.
I hope Zoey feels better soon! Doggie probiotics have been helpful for my dogs in the past. I also noticed a big difference when I switched their food to the Farmer’s Dog.
Hey Megan, thanks for checking out a few of my classes! I am grateful.
I totally understand the convenience of working out at home, and the added sense of peace/comfort given the ongoing pandemic. I am typically good for runs and maybe some outdoor strength work but I struggle with practicing yoga or doing indoor workouts at home…mainly because of lack of space and dogs haha.
My dad also recommended probiotics so I’ll check that out, and I’m checking out this food brand too. Thank you!
I used to attend multiple yoga studios almost every day. Loved it. Then, I got a dog and moved a lot of my workouts to outdoor things I could do with her. At that point, I was probably attending a yoga studio monthly as a friend date and doing online classes at home. Then, I had a baby and became a single mom. All my workouts are at home starting at 5:10 am before he wakes up. I usually take online yoga classes that don’t involve much jumping (too noisy) and that emphasize core work because it warms me up for the day.
Hey Kathleen – what an evolution workouts have been for you. Really goes to show how embracing the season of life we are in and what best supports us is the way to go. I admire that you are able to get your workout in before your son wakes up. It’s always something I’ve struggled with. You are a rockstar, and so strong and resourceful! <3
When my dog has an upset tummy she gets pumpkin, then pumpkin and rice, then pumpkin, rice, and meat. I also give her homemade chicken broth (no onions or garlic) to counteract dehydration and electrolyte loss. My rule is that if things don’t improve in three days (or get worse), I take her in. I used to incorporate homemade snacks into her day (cooked liver, squash, broccoli, carrots), but now she mostly scores the leftovers of my son’s healthy leftovers (mostly apples, melon, and carrots) and she gets a boiled egg most weeks.
Yes, I did the pumpkin with Zoey too! Thank goodness she rebounded quickly and is back to normal. I love the “real food” that you incorporate into your dog’s diet. I feel like that’s an attainable thing that I could do.
You might consider getting a face guard for your Apple Watch. In February I accidentally smashed my watch face while playing tennis. I immediately ordered a new watch and a face guard. Since using the guard I don’t even have a scratch on my watch!
I didn’t even know this was a thing! Thank you so much!
I’m bummed vibes is closing too. I popped in last week for a yoga class and heard the news…what an incredible group of women. xoxo
unmatched in Charlotte. a hard ending, for sure.
I kept my membership for studios that offered on demand or virtual classes. I live in a state where things opened back up very quickly (despite very high transmission rates) and I just didn’t feel safe returning to indoor practice for either teaching or practicing. Honestly, I’ve been able to get in more workouts having a virtual option that I can do at home, I don’t have to factor in travel time (especially with early morning workouts). And if there are on demand options, I can just squeeze in a shorter workout on my own schedule on hectic days. It’s worked out very well for me, I will likely continue to do virtual yoga/strength classes in addition to in-person.
No advice on homemade dog food, I do make plain rice for my doggo when she has an upset stomach (which is thankfully rare, she seems to have an iron stomach haha). I also use pumpkin puree for both my dog and cats, that seems to help almost any kind of stomach upset.
No kiddos, but I might put together a simple costume to wear while passing out treats. Our street is kind of hit or miss for Trick or Treaters, plus our dog barks at the doorbell so we usually just sit outside for a while then leave the bucket out for any later visitors.
I’m glad to hear you were able to do some virtual options with studios you visited. I hear you on the travel time, it adds a lot to going to a class. It’s great that you’ve been able to find a good groove with home workouts.
Yes, the pumpkin puree is so helpful! I did that too!
Good luck with your trick or treating! I hope you get a decent crowd this year! Our neighborhood has started having everyone sitting out at tables instead of going door to door and that’s nice and much easier on everyone.
Last year was all about hiking and attempting to thru-hike the AT. Then winter came and the weight piled on. Since the beginning of August, I’ve been going to Orangetheory twice a week and I love it! The coaches are great and the workouts are fun and challenging.
Eleanor is going as Skye from Paw Patrol and Lincoln will be a koala. So cute! 🙂
Love to hear that you’ve found a good groove at Orange Theory. And a recent half marathon finish – good stuff lady! OMG, those halloween costumes sound perfect!
Did you have any hesitation about buying an Apple Watch from Walmart? Were you able to get any kind of AppleCare for it? I would like to purchase one for my boyfriend and I’m all for saving money, I just don’t want to get inferior service on the watch if something goes wrong!
Yes! You can get AppleCare if you buy from Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/cp/applecare-products/3346365.
Henry had GI issues (bloody diarrhea) on and off for a few months several years ago. He was on and off meds for it as well, but we just kept having trouble until I switched him off kibble. I’m too lazy to cook for him, but I did transition him to a raw dehydrated diet and he has not had one single GI problem since then! We use Big Dog Naturals and he loves it! (Although worth looking into cooked options as raw may not be the best option for a house with a toddler)
This is so interesting Lauren, thank you for sharing! I will check it out! I’m glad you figured things out with Henry and found a long-term solution!