#NoHumbug

I adore everything about the holiday season. Christmas music and movies (even the really, truly terrible kind), crazy shopping, baking, gifts - all of it. My absolute favorite part of the holidays, however, is the abundance of kindness. With the knowledge that my friends, neighbors, and complete strangers are probably dealing with an extra dose of stress around this time of the year, I like to go the extra mile to brighten someone's day. That is why I absolutely adore the #NoHumbug challenge from lululemon athletica.

I can't wait to try some of these ideas. I'll be following #NoHumbug on Twitter and Instagram, so be sure to tag me in your posts - I'd love to see them!

xo,

Rachel

Yoga to Brunch

I have become addicted to yoga classes, especially on the weekends. There is no better way to end a busy week than with an amazing and challenging class. I'm even working towards my goal of mastering a handstand! Obviously, there are other weekend activities I love as well - primarily brunch and shopping. Inspired by Styled Snapshots, I created this fall-appropriate transition look to go from yoga class to brunch in just a few minutes.

I am loving Essie's "miss fancy pants" on my nails lately. It's edgy and versatile without being super dark and dramatic. I think lululemon offers the best fabrics and styles for yoga wear, especially this Ebb to Street bra. It's totally seamless and made of moisture-wicking fabric. I don't normally wear TOMS, but I swear every girl in yoga class comes to the studio in these. I might have to get a pair!

For the brunch look, I love this sweater from J. Crew. It's a little longer in the back, so if you aren't into wearing yoga pants out in public, it has got you covered. Add some Tory Burch riding boots and jewelry from C. Wonder and Kate Spade and you're ready to go. Happy brunching/shopping/sweating!

xo,

Rachel

#runOMcincy

Last night, I tucked myself into bed around 10:30 p.m. in preparation for today's event - runOMcincy! In this super-fun community gathering, around 2,000 Cincinnatians ran either 6, 3, or 1 mile distances to Great American Ball Park to do yoga. If you're from the area, you know it's kind of a big deal to be on the grass.

I pulled myself out of bed around 5:30 a.m. (eek!) with a huge smile on my face. I had a feeling today was going to be a blast, and I was absolutely right. I even got to cross it off my 101 in 1001 list. Check out some of the pictures!

Yogis taking over the outfield!

Feeling happy in the sunshine post-run and post-yoga

Love this picture of the whole group

Rosie did some yoga too!

The (totally free) event was organized and executed by some wonderful employees from lululemon Hyde Park and lululemon Kenwood, and amazing yoga instructors from local studios. Do it with me next year?

xo,

Rachel

Setting Goals

When I was in college, it all seemed so simple: get scholarship, major in Biology, make excellent grades, graduate, attend professional school. I discovered towards the end of this process that what you enjoy studying isn't necessarily the same as your dream job, or even your true passion.

So what do you do after you make that crazy decision not to continue on the easy path? Start over...and believe me, it sucks. It's also kind of amazing. In the past year, I have experienced so many things I would have otherwise not had the courage to try.

It's no secret I'm a huge fan of setting personal goals. I would be lost without my to-do lists (daily, weekly,  monthly, and of course my 101 in 1001). I have always had trouble setting more distant goals. 5 year plans? Nice in theory, but never a part of my life....until now.

That's right, I put my big girl pants on and created 1, 5, and 10 year goals for myself. I won't lie - it was challenging. I feel like so much of my life is still up in the air, but the first step in changing this is defining my vision of my future life.

lululemon is an awesome goal-setting resource (plus adorable yoga gear). Using some of the worksheets and advice provided on their blog, I was able to come up with my 1, 5, and 10 year goals. If you're struggling with grasping the "big picture" part of your life, I highly suggest taking the time to sit down and focus on defining your vision for your life.

xo,

Rachel

Loving lululemon

 Logically, I know I can throw on some shorts and a battered high school t-shirt and complete my workout just fine. There is something to be said, however, for making an effort to find high quality workout clothing that makes you feel inspired. For me, lululemon exemplifies stylish, quality fitness apparel. The brand conveys a lifestyle of health, fun, and vitality. The fact that the clothing makes you feel attractive while sweat is pouring down your face is just a plus. The Luon® fabric is incredibly soft, comfortable, and hands-down my favorite for yoga apparel. Whenever I feel the workout-wear laziness start to creep in, I throw on lululemon and am instantly reminded of why a grungy old t-shirt just won't cut it. Here are some of my favorites:

 

 

Cheers,

Rachel