Friday Favorites: Week of 7/9

Hi there and Happy Saturday to you!

Today we’re talking favorites, and while these are normally published on Fridays, I figured a weekend round-up is better than skipping one all together. I have been fighting a bad migraine and cold over the past few days, so I’ve been cuddled up on the couch and anywhere but in front of a computer screen. But we’re on the mend (Skyler too) … and things are looking up!

We are in a season of taking things one day a time and I am focusing on giving myself more grace than I have in the past. This includes more time to unplug, more time for self-care, and permission to say no to things if I’m feeling overwhelmed or run down. (I shared more about this here!) So yes, hi, hello, and this is how we’re rolling this week.

How are you doing out there?

I could keep typing on the subject, but that might be best for another time and another post. Today is all about the faves, so let’s roll right in!

FRIDAY FAVORITES: WEEK OF 7/9

• celebrating July 4th

Our Fourth of July weekend didn’t include a ton of outings or big plans, but that was fine by me. We hung in, then got out Sunday afternoon to meet up with a few friends in Brooklyn to watch the fireworks from their rooftop.

We grilled out, we played games, and Skyler LOVED seeing the sky light up past his bedtime.

It was a fun-filled day, and this is the only photo I have to show for it. What did you do over the holiday?

• quick fun fact on sunscreen

Here’s a friendly reminder to make sure you’re using sunscreen, and do yourself a favor and choose a mineral sunscreen at that. You can probably guess that my go-to brand is Beautycounter’s Countersun line, as it goes on smooth, feels like a moisturizer more than a sunscreen, it’s clean and it WORKS.

My normal SPF routine includes a facial sunscreen after my skincare routine, a lotion or mist all over when I know I’m heading outside, and this sunscreen stick to keep in my purse for touch-ups. It’s the best for that an Skyler doesn’t mind when it’s time to re-apply, either!

I think it’s safe to say that we all know sunscreen protects our skin from the sun’s harmful rays, but did you know that sunscreen also helps keep you cool in warmer temperatures? It’s true! You really can’t lose by using a good sunscreen on the regular. See my 10 Tips to Staying Cool on Summer Runs for more tips here.

If you’ve never ordered with Beautycounter before, make sure to use the code CLEANFORALL20 for 20% off your first order. I’m always here to help, and please reach out if you have any questions or want to know the best ways to save on your purchases.

• *NEW* Dumbbell Strength Workout (with bench)

I completed a new total body strength circuit at the gym this week, and I wanted to share it with you as it will be one that will be repeated.

You’ll need access to a bench, barbell, dumbbells and a plate (or just use a dumbbell). ⁣⁣Complete all exercises (outside of the Tabata circuit) consecutively in one circuit *12-20 reps* for a total of 3 rounds. Then, finish the workout with two Tabata exercises working your core. This is optional but a great challenge!⁣⁣

For Tabatas, complete a pattern of :20 work/:10 rest for a total of four sets per exercise. Modify when and where you need to, your abs will be on fire!⁣⁣

Exercise Demos:

dumbbell side bends

hip thrusts on bench

plate squat to presses

barbell chest presses

dumbbell single arm rows

dumbbell curls with alternating reverse lunges

single arm triceps kickbacks on bench

stability ball roll outs (or plank hold)

plank jacks

As always, please rest and modify when needed. Let me know if you have any questions!⁣

• friends in the city

Receiving messages from friends who are in town visiting is always something that makes me smile.

I had the pleasure of meeting up with a few different friends and their families while they were passing through the city this week, and it filled my cup to see them. Always a treat!

• Cali update

Our girl is still holding on! If you’ve been around here the last few weeks, then you already know that we are in a place of appreciating every day that we have left with our sweet kitty, Cali. She’s been diagnosed with cancer in her belly. The bad news is that she isn’t going to recover, but the good news is that she has had a burst of energy and is acting somewhat “normal” these days. It’s pretty shocking!

We know very well that she could take another dramatic turn any day, so we’re treating her like the princess she is and soaking in all the time that we can with her. Thank you again for your kind words, messages and prayers. <3

• favorite LIL posts

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Trying to eat healthy, stick to a grocery budget, and avoid spending a lot of time in the kitchen every day? This post shares my typical grocery list along with a rundown on how to throw something easy (and healthy!) together by pulling key ingredients from different categories. I’d love to hear some of your suggestions, too!

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This post is all about how to format your own quick and effective workout when you need to. I included a few sample workouts along with details on how to mix and match your own exercises. Let me know if I missed any of your favorites!

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Okay, that wraps things up for today. I hope you have a great weekend ahead, and I’ll be back to posting on a more regular schedule soon. Thanks for checking in!

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*Disclaimer: Friday Favorites posts may include affiliate links. Also, I am a Beautycounter consultant and love what I do with the company. By using the links provided in this post to order products, you are supporting my business. I truly appreciate you. Always.