Weekend Recap

GUILTY: I have been terrible about posting recently. I think it's the maddness of my job in this busy holiday season. Here is my admission & promise to be better!

I had a full weekend with so many things planned! It was exciting to have so much to look forward to but I am not going to lie, feeling a little exhausted this week already with the go go go of friends & acitivies!

Friday night consisted of good pizza and great beer. Hayden and I headed to Mellow Mushroom for some amazing pizza. The best part is that the restaurant is right around the corner - something about being able to walk to dinner makes it taste that much better. We split the House Special pizza - red sauce based with mozarella, pepperoni, sausage, ground beef, ham, Applewood smoked bacon, mushrooms, black olives, Roma tomatoes, green peppers, and onions. Needless to say it was delicious and accompanied by one of my favorite beers brewed in Charlotte - NoDa's Jam Session. 

We began Saturday with Charlotte's first annual Ugly Sweater Run. The 5K started in Romare Bearden Park and ran through the city and around the neighborhoods before doubling back to the finish line. Registering for the race included a neat toboggan unique to the race, unlimited Hot Chocolate, and a beer at the finish line. Also included in the packet pickup were some sweet coupons for Dick's Sporting Goods which will definitely be put to good use. 

The race ended up being more of a fun run as Hayden and I came in 3rd and 4th overall at a jogging pace. We were still so happy to be a part of the fun shenanigans and the weather could not have been better! I would definitely check it out for next year - but make sure to go all out on your sweater or you'll be the odd one out!

After the race, we showered and got ready for South End Charlotte's 12 Beers of Christmas. The event included multiple breweries who partnered to sponsor the local Levine Children's Hospital. Bringing a toy to each of the breweries got you festive holiday gear and drink tickets. We ended up starting at Sycamore then headed to Lenny Boy Brewing & Triple C. 

Sycamore is by far my favorite brewery in Charlotte. They seem to be rotating beers constantly but always have endless choices so it's easy to find something everyone likes. My favorites include the Southern Girl Blonde, Happily Ever After, and any of their fruit infused beer. They even have a Christmas Cookie beer for the holidays that is crisp and sweet!

Lenny Boy Brewing impressed me! It is located in a warehouse district parking lot so not much is too be expected. I had been curious to try this brewery ever since they won the award for best Brewery Run in Charlotte and was excited to get the opportunity this weekend. Though the outdoor atmosphere is lacking, I enjoyed a Life in the South beer in their small, homey bar and loved the smoothness of the lager. I give Lenny Boy a 7/10 and will definitely be back in the near future!

Triple C impressed me the most by far. Not only was it my favorite beer of the day, it was the coolest atmosphere as well. I had only been to their big 1 year anniversary celebration before and completely missed out on the warm interior. A dark warehouse has been completely transformed into a warm, Christmas lit, moutainy brewery. I chose the Zest-a-Peel and with a light hint of orange I was blown away by the flavor and smoothness of this beer. The bartender recommended this when I told him I enjoyed lighter, easy drinking choices and he could not have picked any better. I give Triple C a 9/10 and already can't wait to go back. 

We enjoyed the ACC Championship game on Saturday night surrounded by some of my best friends from college. Though we didn't have a dog in the fight, I come from an ABC (Anything But Carolina) family and friend group so we were not disappointed when the Tigers pulled through with a victory. 

Sunday was filled with errands. Now that I have such limited free time, I have learned to love the little things and errands are definitely one of them. The simplicity of being out and about, especially during the hustle and bustle of the holidays, feels both productive and exciting. Plus, I got to wander through one of my favorites, West Elm, before heading to Target. They had so many cute gifts for the holidays! I am thinking about stocking up on these candles for hostess and last minute gifts for the season: 

After a sermon on being Sent at Forrest Hill, a local church I have been trying out, it was off to Target to play Santa for our two Angel Tree children. I have never had more fun shopping for legos & Star Wars! Here are a few of the gifts we picked up for our Angel Tree children this weekend:

Star Wars Return of the Jedi Lightsaber

Lego Juniors Fire Suitcase

Because this weekend was so much fun, it makes going back to work a little harder. I am looking forward to coffee before the day starts already! This week is filled with friendly dinners as I have a coworker's surprise birthday dinner tomorrow night & a Christmas cookie exchange on Friday night. I'll be sure to start taking more pictures - guilty as charged when it comes to getting caught up in the moments and forgetting to snap the memories!

Thoughts for this week:

Weekend Recap

I'm baaaaaaack! I thought I would continue the blogging from Raleigh but once I arrived and started to spend time with my family, I figured the computer time could wait until I wasn't lucky enough to have the time to hang out with them. What a whirlwind of a break - I don't even know where to begin!

Wednesday I took a half day and headed back home to Raleigh via NC 49 and 64. These are two roads I had never taken before but am so glad that I did. Something about the two small country lanes, leaves melting from yellow to oranges, and numerous high school football fields I could almost feel crowded each fall Friday night made the drive so "Thanksgiving." You know what I mean - the adjective used to describe the small wonders that really take your breath away and force you to take a step back and appreciate the wonders around you. 

I wore the French Connection dress I bought the other weekend to work that Wednesday. I was really pleased with the way the outfit turned out despite the concern over the shorter dress and highly recommend the purchase! Such a good, comfortable fall staple that I am sure will be on repeat.

French Connection Dress - Lucky Brand Bootie - HUE Tights

For the past 6 or 7 years, my dad and I have started Thanksgiving morning bright and early with the annual Ridgewood Turkey Trot in Raleigh benefitting the MS Society. It is a cause near and dear to our hearts as my dad lost his mother to the disease years ago. It is a way to be thankful not only for the time we had with her but to appreciate the fact that we are ABLE to get up and RUN! What more could we ask for than some "good for you" exercise with those we love? The past two years have been extra special as Hayden has joined us for the 8k race!

Old Navy Go Warm Long Sleeve Tee  -Lulu Lemon Fringe Fighter Headband

Unfortunately, I was so busy helping my mom prep and plate Thanksgiving dinner and mingling with family I had not seen since the previous Easter gathering, it completely slipped my mind to snap any pictures. Don't you hate it when some of the most special moments are missed? But then again, it makes the memory that much sweeter!

I headed to Crabtree Valley Mall early Friday morning to check on my brand's counters at Belk and talk to the Beauty Advisors to see just how crazy it was the night before. Though I missed the madness, I heard the foot traffic was lacking this year. I guess that is attributed to those getting smart and avoiding the crowds preferring to click and save rather than face the unbearably long lines. 

I did manage to find a few good deals in between working most of the day. Here is what I walked away with on Black Friday:

Aerie Blakely Lightly Lined Bra 

My absolute FAVORITE bra was only $17.00 so I couldn't resist! I highly recommend it for its support and flirty lace details. 

Madewell Ex-Boyfriend Flannel 

I have been looking for a good staple flannel so when I saw that Madewell sale was an extra 30% off I pounced on this one! Originally $85, I got it for $28 and immediately wore it this weekend. Tempted to get another color!

Sephora Favorites - Superstars

Ok, so I didn't buy this. But I definitely was tempted! At only $75.00 this would make a GREAT gift for any friend who loves beauty products. It gives you a little taste of Sephora's best sellers. And the sheer VALUE of this purchase makes this worth the buck.

Saturday was spent cheering on the Wolfpack! Though NC State fans were forced to sit through a devastating loss to their biggest rival, I could not have asked for a prettier day to spend with some of my best college friends! 

(please ignore the slouching!)

Sunday was spent cherishing the last few moments before heading "back to reality." I spent the morning at my parent's church. I accredit everything I know about the Lord to the small, southern Baptist chapel & more importantly those that watched me grow in it. Though it is small, it is perfect and there's always something so welcoming and special about returning. 

We enjoyed a "leftovers lunch" with my parents, brother, sister-in-law, and nieces before loading the car to head back to Charlotte. Again, I completely dropped the ball on pictures. I don't even know how I didn't get any pictures as my nieces were so preciously dressed from church I can't image missing the photo op. 

Now it's Monday and I am already counting down the 19 days until I get to return for a small Christmas vacation! In the mean time, I will be busy at the office, bouncing from Christmas party to Christmas party and wrapping my carefully thought out gifts. I can't wait to embrace the spirit of the holiday enjoying every little thing that accompanies it. From my first Christmas tree to the endless Christmas music, I fully plan on making the most of each and every second!

Thoughts for the week:

Christmas Wish List

I have already compiled my Christmas Wish List this year. While I hate to think I am one of those people already thinking about the next holiday when Thanksgiving hasn't even occurred yet, I am justifying it by saying I am giving them both my equal attention and excitement. Something about being stuck in an office all day everyday five days a week is already making this holiday season much more special. Here is what I am asking for this Christmas!

Athleta Running Leggings

I love getting workout clothes for Christmas because they are something I rarely buy myself. Not to mention, I wear them almost every day of the week so practicality is definitely a plus!

Roberta Roller Rabbit Pom-Pom Necklace

I saw one of my friends wearing this necklace in the spring and I still can't stop thinking about it! It would be so easy to throw on with a cute dress or simple T. 

Birch Box

Being in cosmetics has opened my eyes to countless new products. My favorite part is the surprise that comes with each sample which is why the thought of a Birch Box is one of the gifts I am most excited about on my list! I had no idea they now do Birch Box for guys too - such a great gift idea for the picky, hard to shop for man!

Swell Water Bottle

I have heard nothing but good things about these water bottles that keep cold drinks cold and hot ones hot for countless hours. I am so pumped to get my own to try it for myself. Really hoping this will get me to drink more water throughout the day too! I am also loving Swell's collaboration with Mara Hoffman. If that's not your style there are plenty more to choose from!

Starbucks Gift Card

Or really any coffee gift card! I look forward to the one day of the week I choose to spoil myself with some good Starbucks, Caribou, Breugger's, or Dunkin Donuts coffee. Something about a little cardboard cup to warm your hands in the winter just makes me happy which is why these are always my favorite stocking stuffers. 

Glam Glow Mud Facial Set

I had never even heard of Glam Glow until last week. After doing a little research, I cannot wait to try this! I am in love with the Origins Charcoal Mask I blogged about a couple of weeks ago so I can only imagine how much I would enjoy these! The best part is the opportunity to sample each before splurging on my favorite. 

J. Crew Factory City Coat

I have been looking for a good work coat now that the weather has been getting cooler and I have been watching this one for about a week. Unfortunately, my sizes have sold out in the Camel (the color I wanted) but hoping one of you all will be able to find yours!

What's on your Christmas list this year?

Weekend Recap

Isn't it crazy that it's only Monday and I am already counting down the hours until Wednesday at noon when I get to hit the road back home to Raleigh? I think it was because I had such a fun weekend it was just a taste of what is going to come this Thanksgiving weekend.

I spent Friday night enjoying my boyfriend's parents' company in Charlotte. We enjoyed a delicious beer at my favorite brewery in Charlotte, Sycamore Brewing Company & walked to dinner right around the corner at Tupelo Honey Cafe. Though there are three or four now, I don't consider this restaurant a chain - it is incredble! Though I normally stick to a chicken dish (the fried chicken is incredible!) or a veggie plate (fried okra - yes, please!), I tried their burger this time and was blown away by the "secret sauce." 

Saturday was an early morning as we needed to be on the road to Athens by 8:30am. I was lucky enough to be included in the celebratory tailgate for Hayden's brother's engagement. Since the two met at UGA and love football, it was a no brainer they chose to celebrate with some good food, beer & football. Since I had never been to Athens before, I was so excited to see where a lot of my friends had spent their college lives! 

In order to stay awake on the road, Caribou was a must. Their coffee is my favorite - even over Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts. The fact that the holiday coffee cups are out make it taste even better. Next time you stop by Caribou, try your typical plain coffee with a half shot of hazelnut & half shot of vanilla - the barista recommended it to be once and I have become obsessed!

We ended up arriving in Athens just after noon. The day was spent meeting friends & family of the happy couple, eating some delicious Georgia BBQ, sipping on mimosas & tailgate beer, and enjoying the first of cool, fall weather. It actually turned out to be a cold day! Though everyone split up for the 7:30 game, we enjoyed the Georgia win nonetheless. 

After I returned to Charlotte around noon on Sunday (another early morning!) I could not help but take advantage of the perfect weather. My roommate and I enjoyed a four mile walk along the greenway just around the corner from our apartment. The proximity to the trail is honestly one of my favorite things about where I live.

 After a nice walk, we got to work cleaning the apartment for Friendgiving that we were hosting later that evening. I cannot recommend this enough! Even after a packed & exhausting weekend, ending it surrounded by my best friends made the thought of Monday not so dreadful. We drank wine, enjoyed each other's dishes and talked for hours. I did not want anyone to leave but went to bed feeling so lucky to be surrounded by such fun and genuine girls. Let's just say my heart was as full as my belly.  I promise the older I get, the better my friendships become. 

Now that Monday is over there's only a day and a half of work separating me and my family. Something about the smell of fall (I know its weird, but one of my favorite things), the anticipation of family, and the thought of endless green bean casserole has me wanting Thanksgiving more than ever this year. I can't wait to spend time with my parents, get caught up in the hustle and bustle of Black Friday, and end the weekend with a Wolfpack win (hopefully!). 

Thoughts for Thanksgiving:

Thoughts this Week

1. I never really like to wear new clothes right away. Usually, when I buy something it means I really REALLY like it and want to save it to debut on an extra special day. This week, we had a both equally important and large vendor meeting on Wednesday, so I decided to break out the Sam Edelman skirt I got such a deal on this past weekend. I was really pleased with the purchase! I ended up wearing it with a J. Crew navy, long-sleeve shirt (old) and my Korks Booties from Christmas last year. I felt comfortable and stylish - win, win!

Sam Edelman Skirt (sold out) - Korks Booties - J. Crew Shirt (old)

2. Isn't it crazy that sometimes the simplest things have the greatest effects on your mood? For example, I got ready earlier than normal Wednesday morning so I had time to sit down, enjoy a cup of coffee, and read The Skimm before rushing out the door for work on time. Even the presence of my breakfast was precious. Days that start like that are ALWAYS better days. 

3. I ordered The Newlywed Cookbook this week to take as a congratulatory gift for my boyfriend's brother and his new fiancee this weekend during their engagement celebration. It was a book that sold out almost instantly at Quintessentials, the gifts & bridal registry shop I worked at for 5 years in Raleigh. I ordered the cookbook Monday night on Amazon with an estimated delivery of yesterday, (Wednesday) afternoon. When I track the package it says that it has been delivered; however, I have not seen it show up at my apartment. Has this ever happened to anyone? Does anyone know what to do when this occurs? 

The Newlywed Cookbook

4. I was really impressed with Belk's beauty instagram this week. It was very "mod" compared to their normal stereotypical image and made me instantly want to go find the nail polish and beauty blender featured in the post! 

Essie Nail Polish - Beauty Blender

5. Thanksgiving is just a week away! And you know what that means - Christmas music! Ask any of my friends and they will tell you that Christmas music is my favorite genre. It is absolutely impossible to listen to it and avoid a good mood. Check out my favorites on my Spotify playlist! Stay tuned after Thanksgiving for some of the gift ideas I have jumped on this season for my family, friends, & coworkers. 

Thoughts for the weekend:

Where I Think The Best

I know, I know I wrote about running last night too. But, if you haven't noticed already it's one of my guilty love/hate obsessions. Because of the combination between the time change and working late hours due to the holiday maddess (I do work in retail, you know!), my exercise has consisted of many late night runs recently. While most people dread the thought of blind exercise the moment they get home from a long day, I have actually started to enjoy it. Even when its drizzling outside. 

Maybe it is the rebellion. 

The fact that we weren't allowed to be out past dark as children or the fact that most are afraid of the dark. Running in the night gives you a sense of empowerment due to the fact that it almost feels like you're doing something wrong without actually doing something wrong. 

Maybe it is the serenity. 

Fighting the 6 o'clock crowd at the gym and circling the parking lot for fifteen minutes just to find a parking spot in time to wait in line for the next free elliptical is 100% avoided. Most of the time, during dark runs you don't even pass a fellow runner. That gives you time to focus on where your mind wanders. Whether its getting lost in the music, daydreaming about your plans for the weekend, or simply not thinking at all - the peacefulness of having nowhere to be with nothing else to do is extremely gratifying. 

Maybe it is the quiet. 

Sometimes, during a dark run, I don't even listen to music. This is my therapy. When you're doing something mindless, your thoughts automatically go to what is most important. Is it the deadline you worked all day to meet tomorrow? No, because you got that done beforehand. Is it something special or extra you might be able to do or even simply want to do for those that mean the most to you? Absolutely. Because that is what is most important. 

Maybe it is the lack of schedule. 

Dark runs happen at night. In the dark. After you have completed your seemingly endless checklist for the day and set up for tomorrow. There's no pressure to get done in time to shower for work. It is always more peacful participating in something that does not have a strict timeframe or deadline. It allows you to enjoy the moment more rather than allowing your mind to wander onto the next line on the to do list. 

Maybe it is the activity. 

After sitting all day in front of a computer, I can't think of anything else I would rather do than take in the cool, fall fresh air. The perfect compliment is the aerobic exercise which requires deep breathing. It allows you to focus not only on the breathing but even more on the exercise that is requiring you to do so. You're doing good for your mind and your body. What more could you want? 

Maybe I am crazy or alone on this one, but night runs are not all bad when you really deep dive into them. Come to think of it, this post would not have even happened without one. Train your brain to see the good in each situation or you are going to find yourself secretly grateful for the time that is flying by rather than regretting not making the most of it. 

Where do you think the best?

Sunday Runs

I am a firm believer that the better your playlist, the better your workout. While I have recently been listening to podcasts while on the eliptical or stair-stepper at the gym, I cannot get a good run in without the right tunes. Here is a complete list of my recent favorites for those Sunday afternoon runs. . . 

Roses - Chainsmokers

Sorry - Justin Bieber

Every Teardrop is a Waterfall - Coldplay

Reflections - Misterwives

On My Mind - Elle Goulding

Midnight City - M83

Love Myself - Hailee Steinfled

Pumping Blood - No No No

Hold My Hand - Jess Glynne

Alive - Sia

Call Your Girlfriend - Robyn

New Americana - Halsey

XOXO - Cherub

Stand by You - Rachel Platten

What's on your running playlist these days?

Saturday Shopping

My mom came to town this weekend to attempt to start the holiday shopping. I was so beyond excited to see her when she got here yesterday morning. Though the mall was a complete mad house, we were able to get some GREAT deals on some gifts and even treat ourselves. Here is what I got away with this weekend . . .

 

We started in the Designer section, scouring the floor for some great clearance deals as Belk was having an extra 10% off clearance items. My first purchase was this Sam Edelman skirt. Though it was originally $99.00, I ended up getting it for $9.00. And no, you didnt read that wrong. $9.00!

 

I can't find the skirt anywhere online for sale. But I did manage to come across a crappy shot of it! I will be sure to post a better picture this week once I get the chance to wear it!

 

Sam Edelman Bohemian Rhapsody Skirt

Originally $99.00, I got for $9.00

 

 

I also found a great tunic/dress. I honestly debated getting it because it was a little shorter than what I normally wear to work but could'nt resist how cute it was. I am thinking with some navy tights and booties this will be the perfect fall go-to outfit!

 

French Connection Castle Check Dress

Originally $158.00, I got for $48.50

 

 

I have also been looking for some great black work shoes. I have found myself borrowing my roommates a little two much as the temperatures start to cool Originally, I was on the hunt for the Antelope Booties I posted about before. However, I came across a GREAT pait of Kenneth Cole Reaction booites I liked on a little bit better. They are more versatile when it comes to jeans as well as dresses.

 

 

Kenneth Cole Reaction Time Out Bootie



 Originally $89.00, I got for $29.00

 

 

Finally, since I knew all clearance items were an additional 10% off, I decided to venture into the unknown world of the Belk Clearance shoe room. Boy, was I surprised! I found these great French Connection heels. They had both nude and black, when I tried both on and stared down at my feet puzzled, a sweet man waiting on his wife to make her decision told me that if I wanted a man's decision, than to get the black. I took it as a sign of course :) They look a lot better on than in the picture, so I will be sure to post a picture this week. Get them before they are gone! Southpark had a TON left.

 

French Connection Mandalay Dress Mule

Originally $130.00, I got for $25.00

 

 

We also stopped into Gap on our way out of the mall. They were having a promotion where you had a peel off card to reveal a surprise. I got lucky with 30% off my purchase so I just could'nt let that go to waste! Now that the weather is getting cooler, I knew I needed two things - warm bottoms I could wear to work and warm workout clothes that could withstand the cold weather during an early morning or late night run.

 

 

Gap Velvet Side Zip Pull-On Leggings

Originally $59.95, I got for $41.00

 

GapFit Breathe Stripe Crewneck

Originally $34.95, I got for $17.12

 



 Overall, I am pretty dang pleased with my weekend deals! Where did you score yours?