I did not get a chance to see Magic Mike on the big screen over the summer so I have been eagerly awaiting the DVD release. Today is the day. Woot Woot. My plan is to have the girls over and fast forward and rewind to the good parts – just like with old school porn.

 My top 2 faves are definitely Channing and Matt. Mr. Bomer is a work of art and Channing has the approachability aspect working for him. It’s a true toss up.

Our main dish. Found this unique pasta when I accidentally walked into a sex shop in Portland. Seriously, it was an accident. It was super upscale and didn’t look like one at all.   No picture taking was permitted so I had to to buy it. I think I will add some sausage…

My attire for the evening. I saw this shirt on a much younger girl than myself and had to buy it. Being a mother and almost 35 I don’t think this is appropriate for daily wear but it will work just fine for a girls night!

The only decision left is what drink to serve. Any themed suggestions??

Written by Lea Barlow • Leave a comment

Whether you are crampy, over scheduled or just being lazy some days are harder than others to find the motivation to workout. When I don’t feel like lacing up the shoes I remind myself why I NEED to…

I am a role model for my children. I know my kids will always understand and value the importance of exercise mainly because I involve them. They don’t just see me heading out the door to the gym. They do random knee highs with me in the kitchen after we load the dishwasher. They throw kettle bells around when my trainer comes. If I am doing push-ups while watching the latest Housewives reunion – they are doing push-ups right next to me.

I am vain and I do not apologize for it. I want to have a fantatstic body. I need to workout to get and keep that body. It’s that simple.

To look fabulous in clothes.  I am a lover of clothes but I do not believe everything you wear needs to be super expensive. The most important piece of an ensemble is confidence. Working out gives me that confidence.

To smile. Working out is my anti-depressant. I am unfortunately a little depressive leaning and I know that, for me, daily exercising keeps the clouds from darkening.

That’s why I workout. Why do you?

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I go through periods of time when nothing really strikes or inspires me. That mainly occurs in the summer. With the onset of fall everything seems to get its sparkle back so I wanted to share with you a few of my favorite things right now…

1. White Truffle Sea Salt

I am putting it on everything! I am awaiting the delivery of our salt stones so there will be much more to come on this topic.

 

2. Grey Jeans

Looked everywhere for a pair last year but to no avail. Now you can’t go into a store without seeing them at every turn. I recently scooped up these Paige ones. Very soft but still firm enough to make your legs look skinny!

3. Cat Memes

Totally and completely obsessed and that’s all I have to say about it.

4. Saturday mornings

Fall brings back all of the recreation sports and I LOVE it! We have family night on Friday with an early bed time so we can wake up fully rested to attack our crazy Saturday mornings. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

 

5. Catholic School

*Most favorite*

Have you ever had that feeling when you find something in yourself you didn’t even know was missing?

I enrolled Tennison and Grayson in Catholic school this year. I did a tireless tour of schools over the last year and ultimately decided on our local Catholic school. We could not be any happier. Everyone at the school has welcomed my children as if they were their own. My husband and I have even begun attending the Thursday morning children’s mass. I was truly shocked at the expanse of my spiritual void. I am so grateful for our new school and church.

What are some of your favorite things?

 

Written by Lea Barlow • 3 Comments

I am always looking for ways to add substance to my meals without adding unnecessary carbohydrates. I have with you my beloved spaghetti squash and boiled shredded cabbage in previous posts. Recently, I have added another recipe to the mix – sauteed peppers.

1. Start with your favorite bell peppers. I prefer a mix of red, yellow and orange. The green pepper has it’s place but not in this dish.

2. Julienne the peppers. If it is just me and the hubs I use 3 peppers. If the little ones are in the mood I add in one more. Next, heat up your saute pan with some extra virgin olive oil and minced shallots and toss the peppers in on medium to high heat. If you so choose, add in a little red onion for an extra punch.

3. To make it more like a ‘pasta’ substitute, saute the peppers for about 15 minutes or until soft. Add a sprinkling of sea salt and a bit of fresh shredded parmesan cheese and top with a fish filet. Salmon is my personal preference. Once you try these sauteed peppers I promise you will be hooked.

Enjoy!

Written by Lea Barlow • Leave a comment