My new home : Kansas City!

So, this post is going to get a little personal...

Kansas City. It's hard to believe this is where I call home, now.

I must admit - before I mention anything else - is that moving away from your hometown (in my case) has been super healthy & rewarding. (However, I do miss you, Chester!!!)

So, this past Christmas - Tyler & I were given the option to move to Kansas City for a WAY better job opportunity (on his part) - but, we had to decide in THREE DAYS.

We had nothing to lose (& being a Pilates Instructor {as much as it hurt to let my current clients go} I could find work anywhere) - so we made the huge leap and moved to Kansas City.

And, wow - it is more beautiful than we ever could imagine. I literally thought Kansas City would be like the Wizard of Oz (farms, dust & nothing sparkly). Holy hell... I was so wrong.

For ALL my friends who are from South Florida - Kansas City is a hidden gem (kinda how Nashville, TN used to be...) - it's like a Palm Beach of the MidWest. Seriously - all my stores are a ONE MILE radius from my house : Lululemon, Trader Joe's, Anthropologie, The Fresh Market, Whole Foods & so much more. Plus, the food here is WAY BETTER. (That will be a whole different post.) And, the homes are right out of magazines & Pinterest. SO BEAUTIFUL.

Kansas City is known as the City of Fountains. Did you know that Kansas City is #2 IN THE WORLD for the most fountains? Do you know who is #1? ROME! Pretty amazing.

So far - all of Spring - Tyler & I have been like 6 year olds on Christmas morning. Every day, there are new flowers blooming & something new that we are finding out about our house.

Another thing that I found really surprising here - EVERYONE IS MORE FIT! I took a barre class the first week I was here and thought I was going to die. And for those of you who know me - I'm a pretty fit person - with my Pilates & long runs. We are dealing with a whole new kind of fitness animal here. And, did I mention everyone here is BEAUTIFUL!? Everyone really takes care of themselves here!

Here are some fun pictures I have captured around my runs:

KC Dogwood!

Beautiful KC Tulips!

One of our parks has an Oriental Theme! Lots of running trails here :)

I will post more soon.

..xox...

Liz

Lunch Time: Veggie Quinoa

I wanted to share with you a healthy, nutritious lunch that I made the other day. It's super easy & doesn't take too much time to make, either.

Everyday, I strive to make healthy choices for my body. For me, I notice that my body does not do well with carbs... at all. So, I try to make meals that are carb-free (for the most part).

Well... here it is: Veggie Quinoa.

Ingredients:

* 1 cup of Quinoa (This is something I always have in my cupboard... and you should, too!)

* Spinach (about a handful)

* 1/2 a Tomato

* Onion (Take a whole onion & slice once - which should give you 5-6 rings)

* Roasted Cauliflower, Pinenuts & Garlic (This was leftover from a previous dinner.)

Directions:

1. Fill a pot with 1 1/4 cup of water. When the water gets to a boil - add 1 cup of quinoa. Cook for 10 minutes.

2. While the quinoa is cooking - grab a pan, add olive oil and bring it to a medium heat. Grab a handful of spinach & toss it in the pan until it is wilted.

3. Chop up half a tomato & dice.

4. Take an onion & slice once. This will give you 5-6 rings. I love whole onion rings - but if you would rather chop it up... go for it.

5. For the roasted cauliflower (pine nuts & garlic) - this was from the night before & I wanted to use it up. So - if you don't have roasted cauliflower laying around in your fridge (haha) use some leftover veggies from the night before.

6. Once the quinoa is ready (the water will be gone & it will be light and fluffy) - just add all the veggies in with the quinoa.

7. EAT!!

This may not sound like a lot of food - but trust me, it filled me up! I find that when you put the right foods in your body - you stay full longer.

Thanks for reading & Happy Tuesday!!

Elisabeth's Veggie Quinoa

...xox...

Liz

Healthy AM

Wow.

Has it really been a year since I've written on my blog?

Life lesson: Year 25 is the fastest one, yet. Seriously.

Ok, So nothing super interesting - but, I wanted to share what I have been eating for breakfast. Lots of yummy ingredients to make an incredible smoothie:

1. Strawberries
2. 1 Banana
3. Chia Seeds
4. 2 Gallops of Peanut Butter
5. Almond Milk (1/2 a cup)
6. 10 Spinach Leaves
7. A few ice cubes (if you choose - to make it more smoothy-like)

I love my Magic Bullet - I squish all of this into my Bullet and out comes yumminess - and it does keep me full (hence the peanut butter).

EAT CLEAN!

((I swear it tastes better than it looks!!!))

...xox...

Liz

Run

"Run with your heart instead of your mind."

I found an awesome quote the other day!

I wanted to share it with ya'll!

::::

Happy Friday!

..xox..

Liz

Gluten Free :: Healthy Or Not?

This post is inspired by a conversation I had with a friend the other day...

So, what's the truth about something that has "gluten-free" on the box or label? It must be healthy, right? Well - of course it is, you can find "gluten-free" items in the healthy or organic section of the grocery store.

Well - the truth is... eating gluten-free is healthy... but buying something with gluten-free on the box... is NOT.

If you see cereal, pasta or anything else with "gluten-free" written on the box.. it most likely is not good for you.

Why?

Because the gluten is replaced with other "ingredients" that you cannot pronounce - and usually this means it's some sort of chemical that is processed. Additionally - these boxed "gluten-free" food products end up having even more calories.

Don't get me wrong - there are plenty of people out there who are allergic to gluten... and instead of never having cereal again... they can have cereal that is gluten-free ((replaced with these unknown "ingredients")).

So, if you are someone like me - who loves to eat clean and healthy... how do you truly eat gluten-free?

::

Stay away from processed foods, breads & pasta. 

Don't let the grocery stores fool you with the way they display their products!

Be informed.

...xox...

Liz

Schedule for Pilates of West Palm Beach

I can't believe it :: this studio is officially open & the schedule is out! I'm teaching quite a few classes and cannot be more excited.

Starting January 21st - the Pilates of West Palm Beach schedule is as follows:

I will be teaching :: Tuesday - Thursday at 6pm, Friday at 7am & Sunday at 10am!

You can sign-up online at pilateswpb.com!

I look forward to seeing you at the studio. ;)

"Strong is the new skinny."

...xox...

Liz

Twenty-Something's

What is it about our twenty-something's? By far, my twenties has been the hardest, craziest & most incredible decade (so far).

Some may have experienced:

Engagements. Weddings. More "Education". "Big Girl" Jobs. Living on your own (not attached to your parents' gas card). And so much more!

I think I can say that most twenty-something's are still looking for that purpose... what you really want to be when you grow up (not the office assistant job you got directly out of college). Or maybe you are doing some soul-searching... why did God put you on this earth?

The best advice I can give you - is do what you love. And more importantly - do what you're good at (you'll probably make more money :: if that's important to you). 

I've learned pretty early that you limit your own self - and the choices you make, prove that. 

I'm scared to make that leap of faith from a corporate job into being "my own business" - but, it's going to be totally worth it. And, I'm almost at the finish line.

I'll leave you with this last thought for tonight ::: don't ever wait - because a year from now, you will wish you have started then. There's never going to be a perfect time. 

Happy Tuesday!

..xox..

Liz

Pink Sunday

Pink Sunday? Time to share my favorite "pink accessory" of the week! ::YAYYY!::

The other day - I was online and came across the most amazing website :: with vintage and bohemian style clothes, shoes, jewelry & handbags.

Not only are the prices right - anywhere from $20 to $100 - but the quality is great, too.

Are you obsessed already?

Well - the website is called: Spool No. 72 (www.spool72.com). The only downside about this online store is that you have to check frequently - because once they update their site with all their new arrivals, everything sells very quickly.

I recently just bought this dress for $25 (it was on sale and originally $80):

I just got it in the mail the other day - and it fits perfectly. 

Pink and tulle - what's there not to love? I can't wait to wear this dress out!

Hope you enjoyed my favorite new online find!

...xox...

Liz

WorkOut Wednesday

Perhaps one of your resolutions for 2013 is to hit the gym more - well, I can tell you that a great way to stay in shape is RUNNING.

I promise - it's not as scary as you think.

Now that we are on the topic of running (I just love it) - I am going to share with you a tid bit of advice.

:::

For many years - I've heard that the "correct" way to run is from heel to toe. I've never followed this rule - mostly because it never felt right when I tried to run this way. Also, I watched so many people hurt their knees running from heel to toe.

Now, there is still a debate of the "correct" way to run - but, I am going to suggest to you:

Run on the balls of your feet!

Not only does this protect your knees - but your calves get a killer workout. Additionally, many runners improve their time running this way.

If you're not used to running on the balls of your feet - it may be hard at first, but don't give up! It's definitely something to work towards.

Happy WorkOut Wednesday!

..xox..

Liz

New Year, New You

I cannot be more excited for this new year - not to mention, I am more of an odd number kind of girl! ;)

So, what are your goals and aspirations?

I think the biggest challenge of setting any kind of goal - is making sure you keep the momentum throughout the whole year.

2012 was pretty awesome - I married my soulmate, who is the best man in the entire world. But, what's next for 2013?

I'll share with you:

(1) My husband and I are currently saving for a house - so hopefully, this time next year - we will have our first place together!

(2) As for my career - I will be teaching Pilates full time in a couple of months. I CANNOT WAIT! I'll be teaching at Pilates of Boca East and a brand new studio that just opened in West Palm Beach called Pilates of West Palm Beach!

<<Check out my flyer below!!>>





(3) Another goal of mine is to write down something I am thankful for everyday. I believe that the more thankful and accepting you are of your life - the more things start going your way. This cannot be more true!

I wish you all a happy and healthy new year! Work hard, be thankful & truly believe - and you can achieve whatever you want!

...xox...

Liz

Truth: Your Body Type & Genetics

The real truth about your body type and genetics!

I'm pretty sure I may have heard that :: what your mother looks like - is what you are going to look like in "25 years". However - I'm here today to teach you how to disprove that! How...?

You do have an every day choice of how you want to maintain your body.

BUT -

Your early muscle memory does come from your childhood.

So - you can honestly thank your parents for the body you have today!

As I've been studying more and more about the human body - I've realized how important it is to be active at a very young age - no matter what sport it is!

Coming from experience - I was a young girl who rode horses, played soccer & volleyball. I've always had an active lifestyle (the horses gave me my legs!).

I am so grateful for my parents - who knew that was important.

It's because of them that I am very muscular by nature. Additionally - I've learned to carry that into my adult life!

So, for those of you who plan on adding on to your family soon - make sure you introduce your little ones into an active, healthy lifestyle!

Also - this means that you DO have control of how you want your body to look like!

 If you didn't get involved physically until your adult life - then you can still change it! Don't let "genetics" think you are stuck with a certain body!

 ..xox..

Liz

Christmas Gifts For The Fitness Fanatics

Well, Christmas is only 23 days away - and Hanukkah is right around the corner. Now, it's time to think about what to get your loved ones for this Holiday Season!

I know there are a TON of people out there who enjoy fitness - as much as I do - and like to look stylish when they sweat.

I have some GREAT gift ideas if you are buying for a Fitness Queen:

(1)

I am obsessed with this yoga bag. Anything with bows gives me an immediate impulse to buy it. You can find this and other fun bags at oGorgeous.

(2)

If you know me well - you know I'm an avid runner. Every day. Anyways - I'm a huge fan of asics. I always wore them because they were so supportive and an awesome running shoe (even though they weren't cute). But now, they have all these fun colors! You can find asics anywhere - but, I must say that I have found the best deals at Off Broadway (a discount shoe store)!

(3)

More and more I have been seeing these at the Pilates studios that I go to. And I LOVE THEM! These would look awesome paired with a tight tank top. (This happens to be my new favorite "studio" look at the moment.) You can find them at Nordstroms! Believe it or not, Nordstroms has an amazing "activewear" collection - see HERE.

(4)

Front

Back

These are perfect "studio" shoes (Pilates, Barre Workouts, etc.). The brand is called Blake Brody - and they come in amazing different colors and styles. I want a pair! ::hint hint::

(5)

Last - but not least - you can never go wrong with getting a Fitness Queen something from Lululemon! You can see their latest styles HERE.

I hope you like my current fitness favorites - which would all make perfect gifts!

...xox...

Liz

Not What You Think

Surprise, surprise - this happens to be another post about "Pilates". ::smiles a HUGE smile::

I've had so many people ask me - "What is Pilates?" or "Why does it work?"

#1 - Pilates consists of over 500 exercises that are controlled, precise movements which are performed on a floor, mat or special apparatus. It is designed to lengthen, strengthen & stretch the muscle without adding bulk.

#2 - It works because Pilates tones all those little muscles that you never knew you had. It goes way beyond your "superficial" muscles. It works your body from the inside, out.

Recently, I just finished my 3rd intensive training weekend. I wanted to share three (out of MANY) that I learned:

(1)

This is "Twist Prep" - you have no idea how hard it is to even balance on your side like this. You can't really see in the picture - but you want to use your waistline to life the pedal (where the bottom hand is resting) up. GREAT exercise!

(2)

This next exercise is "Pull Ups" - and it's way harder than it looks. You must lift yourself up past the bars (that are being held on to).

(3)

The last exercise I will share with you today is "Hanging Pull Ups". This is great for your biceps and shoulders. The exercise requires your to lift the whole "plank position" to the top bars.

I bet the men wouldn't mind trying these exercises - they aren't easy. ;)

This is why I swear by Pilates. It makes you STRONGER.

...xox...

Liz

((Pilates Princess))

The Anti-Aging Drug

Well, I guess one of the reasons of having a blog is to update it on a daily basis.... Whoops!

To say that I have been busy is an understatement.

As many of you know - I have started the Power Pilates Comprehensive Program (back in September). Additionally - I have been working full-time, so I feel like I have two jobs. Working 40 hours a week, then studying 25 - leaves not much time left. BUT, I must say - that I am in a very happy place! :)

Recently, I passed my first "Test Out" for Power Pilates. ::YAYYYYY!!!:: It consisted of the Beginner System (more "basic" exercises & how to teach a client who has never done Pilates before). The first test comes after you have completed 100 hours of: studying, practicing, observing, etc.

The test consisted of a Practical Exam (teaching a 55-minute Private class to a Beginner) and a Written Exam ( knowing all the muscles and bones of the body).

This program is no joke - it made me realize how each Power Pilates Instructor really is an expert in their field.  They are required to know hundreds of exercises in Pilates, along with the anatomy of the whole entire body... inside & out! It's incredible.

As I continue through my journey of becoming a Power Pilates Instructor - I will give you the reasons why Pilates is so amazing for you. There are reasons why the top celebrities in the world pay big $$ to take Pilates.

I have about 450 hours to go! ;)

 

"Power Pilates believes in a classical approach to teaching, in a movement-based, systematic, integrative style. Pilates, taught in this style, is the anti-aging drug that people crave. Having clients learn in a flowing style, with appropriate corrections at the appropriate time, will transform their bodies."

Happy Sunday!

...xox...

Liz

Don't Give Up

A little inspiration for you on this rainy day...

Achieving your ultimate dream takes time, commitment and patience. Nothing great ever happens over night - and it certainly doesn't happen on the first try.

...xox...

Liz

Burlap & Bling: The Perfect Southern Wedding

I can't believe it has already been 2 months since Kristal & Johnny's gorgeous southern wedding. It could not have been more perfect, or stunning.

Every detail was something you would expect from a world class wedding planner (or perhaps Pinterest!).

Where do I even begin? Let's start with the theme: Burlap & Bling. It was all about the details with this wedding. Her bouquet was wrapped in burlap with a hint of bling. Even the tables where the guests were seated followed this trend. I must say that there was a perfect amount of everything - every little sparkle was just where it needed to be.

Gorgeous Bouquet

As you can see from Kristal's bouquet - the colors were all very soft & natural. This held true throughout the whole wedding & reception (decor-wise). 

Where the guests were seated.

 Another clever touch to the wedding was where everyone picked up their names to see where they would be seated. Everyone's names were on paintbrushes - and the tables were colors, not numbers! (Johnny is an artist. What an incredible idea! Bravo.)

Paint Brushes & Table Color

 

Now that I talked about some of the intricate details - where was this wedding!? It was at Cedarwood - located in Nashville, Tennessee. Cedarwood is a picturesque, antebellum farm estate. 

Kristal had her ceremony just in front the old farm house. The cocktail hour was held in the barn & the reception was held throughout the farm house. It. Was. Perfect.

Beautiful Farm House

 Here is something that Kristal & Johnny made for the ceremony:

Choose a seat - not a side.

 What a way to make everyone feel welcome! I really loved this (seriously - what didn't I love?)!

Here are a few more great photos from the wedding:

Johnny painted Cedarwood (where the guests could sign) - also, see the chandelier in the tree!

Beautiful details in the barn - As Southern As Possible.

So - what color did Kristal choose for her bridesmaids & groomsmen? Kristal chose purple! So pretty!

The Bride with her Bridesmaids.

Now, for the beautiful bride & groom. Here are some favorites:

After the ceremony - husband & wife! (Do you see the cross in the background? My father-in-law made it!)

Stunning!

Now, I couldn't forget the star of the show:

Hamilton! And yes, he did walk down the aisle.

Overall, this day could not have been more perfect - and I'm so happy for Kristal & Johnny!

There wedding has also been featured in Southern Weddings Magazine! You can see that article HERE.

Also - I don't want to take credit for all these photos - some I grabbed off Facebook, but the others are from Kristal & Johhny's photogapher: Kristyn Hogan! One of the best!

This was a fun post to write - I hope you enjoyed it! ;)

...xox...

Liz

Nail Color: Today's Fashion Accessory

I think more than ever - women's nails have become such an essential part of the wardrobe. Having your nails painted - really can add to your outfit.

Ever since I've joined Pinterest & Instagram, it's very common for women to post pictures of their freshly manicured nails - trust me, I do it, too. I've also seem some crazy looking nails... (I mean... who has the time to do an intricate masterpiece on each finger nail?)

I have 3 favorite colors that I'm currently obsessed with.

Take a look:

Bright Pink Nails

Seriously. Did you expect anything else from me? I absolutely LOVE bright pink nails.

Mint Nails

I've never received so many compliments on this nail color. Mint seems to be the "in" color right now. Regardless, I'm obsessed.

White Nails

White is perfect for summer! The other day, I wore dark jeans & a light top - these nails looked incredible with what I was wearing. I would even wear this color during winter. Style is not about following the "rules" - it's creating your own!

What brand do I use for these colors? I wish I had the actual names of the colors - but they are all from Essie!

What color do you have on your nails?

...xox...

Liz

Watch Out Pilates World!

Well - I've been thinking about this for a long time. What's a long time? Since 2010 - so about two years.

I've made the decision to become a Pilates Instructor!

I have been enrolled into the Power Pilates Training Program, which starts the second weekend of September. 

Training takes about 6-9 months - then, I'll be fully certified.

I. CAN'T. WAIT.

And, I'm looking forward to educating everyone about Pilates and the amazing affects it has on your body & mind. 

My Official Enrollment Email!

 Let me know if you ever want me to train you - it won't be long before I am able. ;)

...xox...

Liz

Tips on How to Feel & Look Your Best

"How can I lose weight?" "What should I eat?" "How do I exercise?"

These are some of the questions that I'm asked quite frequently - whether it's a colleague from work or a close friend. 

I understand that some people don't even know where to begin. 

Let me give you a short list - to help you get started. Getting on the right track to looking & feeling healthy can be difficult at first. However, it's very doable - if you have the willpower.

Where You Can Cut Calories

1. Omit the cheese. Did you know that a slice of cheese on a sandwich can add an extra 100-150 calories?
2. Drink lots of water. Many times we think we are hungry - but really, we're thirsty!
3. No fast food. This is a killer to your diet. After taking this out for 2 weeks - you won't have a craving.
4. No soda. Sugar, sugar, sugar.
5. The less bread, the better. Opt for wraps (for sandwiches), brown rice or quinoa for your carbs.

I never said this was easy - but it's good to be aware what's bad for you & where you can substitute! 

Exercise Is Key

1. Cardio: run, walk or ride a bike. If you're not sure how to exercise - start with cardio. This is the foundation - and where the pounds will shed.
2. Be consistent. Workout at least 4 times a week. One hour of your day is nothing - it's only 5% of your day!

If you start by being aware of what you're eating & throw in some exercise - then you'll start seeing the pounds come off.

I'll post more tips soon!

...xox...

Liz

Excercise of the Week

I know it's been a while since I've posted. Life has been completely insane! But, I thrive in staying busy ;)

I wanted to show you a simple exercise - which should be added to your work-outs this week. It's effective and the benefits are amazing.

The exercise is called "Roll-Up" & it's from Mat Pilates.

Here is what you do:

• Lie flat on your back with your arms elongated by your sides.
• Inhale (lift your arms over your head at a 90 degree angle), then exhale and lift your head, neck & shoulders.
• Start peeling your upper, middle & then lower back off the mat. (slowly - it's all about control)
• Keep your abs tight as you reach past your toes.
• Then, roll down slowly - articulating your lower, middle & upper back onto the mat - with your head being last.
• Repeat. (6-10x)

Roll-Up

Here is some interesting information:

Did you know that ONE Roll-Up is equal to SIX sit-ups? Yea... And, it's great for achieving flat abs!

...xox...

Liz