Tomorrow night I will be ringing in the new year at Xfinity Live in South Philadelphia with some of my best friends. I'm a little sad to see 2012 go though. 2012 included one of the my best semesters of college, graduation, one of my best friends returning from France, making new friends, moving back home (good and bad), new jobs, etc. But I'm excited for 2013 because I have no idea what's in store. I know I will be purchasing a new car, beginning a new job, taking new classes, applying to graduate school, looking for an apartment, but who knows how any of this will turn out. All I can do is hope for the best.
Now the obvious next point of this post would be... New Years Resolutions! Like a lot of people, I'm not really into this in the traditional sense. Last year I went the inspiration board route:
I liked making this as it reminded me of my sorority crafting days- I swear my crafts then were better than this though- and it was a constant visual reminder. I also accomplished a fair share of my goals because it was broken up into categories (health, personal, academic/professional- and focused. But I think I want to do something even more specific this year. I love to-do lists. I seriously make them everyday. So this year, I am thinking of going the list route and making it more of a long term thing ala design darling's 101 in 1001. I love that her list is visual ( I need that), with specific to-do's, and that there is no pressure to finish them in a year. I will be working on mine in the next couple of days so more on my version of the 101 in 1001 to come!
When I think of the holiday season, I obviously think about family get-togethers, presents, Christmas cookies, holiday movies, New Years Eve, resolutions, etc. Towards the end of the holiday season I know we all think about those January new gym goers. Some people hate them, (regular gym goers), some people like to encourage them (good for you!), and some people are or were them. While the gym is obviously a great place to get in shape, they can often be intimidating for newbies (or girls, when "macho men" take up all the room in the weights area), crowded these next couple of months, or just inconvenient. That's why I love fitness videos so much! You have the luxury of working out in your own home, at your own pace, on your own time. I think in the past fitness videos had a bad rep. Maybe because of this guy...
Thank goodness things are different now! The Beachbody brand is the maker of popular fitness videos such at p90X, Insanity, Turbofire and more. If you are looking for challenging, effective workouts with insanely motivating instructors, this site is for you! I can personally attest to how AWESOME of a video Insanity is and this is coming from someone who is very picky about her workouts. Also, I. heart. Shaun. T.
I'd like to highlight a few programs that I'm thinking about trying, but I recommend checking out the website for the full list:
I know it's not December yet, but it will be in 4 days. Although I'm already feeling the Christmas spirit, I still feel like Halloween is coming, the leaves are in the process of changing and the Eagles still have a chance to turn their season around. Alas, none of those things are true (especially concerning the Eagles). It really hit me that it's almost December a) on my slippery, snowy commute this morning b) when my professor announced that next Thursday is our last class- cue finals.
December is going to be a busy month for me with finals, a new job and the holidays and I was looking for some way to stay motivated with my health and fitness. Last weekend while I was reading blogs, the answer appeared: #elf4health (have you been seeing that all over twitter this week?) This is a 6-week holiday health challenge. Check out creators' The Lean Green Bean and Nutrionella's blogs for a more thorough description of Elf for Health. I really like that you get a partner to support you and keep you in check, the fact that it involves mental as well as physical health and that the whole blogging/online community is involved.
I've already completed Meatless Monday- I knew I was going to be out all day so I prepped this delicious quinoa mac and cheese the night before.
Today's challenge was to write a handwritten note or letter for someone. I finished mine tonight and will be sending tomorrow. I wonder who it's for??
Tomorrow is try a new workout Wednesday- still deciding if I want to run like I usually do and then try something I've pinned recently or if I'm going to count today's new yoga workout. Such big life decisions!
If you are interested in the next round I suggest you sign up for a fun, easy way to get into the healthy spirit this holiday season. Good luck to my awesome elf buddy Becca, you da best!
It's 3 days later and my I think my legs have finally recovered from the Philly half. I have never felt knee pain as badly as the Monday after but it was seriously all worth it. Last January I made an inspiration board (ok, I made goals like everyone else in the world on new years) and my main fitness-related goal was run a half-marathon. It seemed like a long way off but this past Sunday my goal was accomplished!
My dad and I were both running our first half marathons, so we woke up early ready to go. We drove to my aunt's house, who happens to be a great runner and a former Philly Marathon completer, to get a ride down to the start of the race in Fairmount. It was a dark, chilly morning but my adrenaline kept me warmer and excited. The atmosphere before the race even started was amazing. Unlike myself, my dad likes to talk to strangers so we met a few encouraging veteran marathoners including some runners were originally signed up for the NYC marathon. About 2,000 NYC marathon runners came to Philly, which I thought was really awesome!
After waiting in our corral for about 15 minutes to start, we were off! Both a Paul Ryan and a Kim Kardashian sign at the starting line really pumped me up! The beginning of the race my dad and I stayed together but as the crowd broke up a bit we split up. I usually get bored by mile 4 when running but the energy from the crowd, my awesome playlist, and the beautiful scenery made the race go by so quickly. Before I knew it we were at mile 8! The course was very flat the whole way up until mile 9 (forget exactly where) around University City. I though this was a very rude part of the race to throw in multiple hills but I only walked twice through the water stations and was not about the walk now.
Overall, my body felt really great up until around mile 11 when my ankles and quads were really starting to burn. I was so close though so it really wasn't a problem. The last mile I got a surge of energy, don't know if this is good or bad, and really booked it to the finish line. What a GREAT feeling to finish a half-marathon!! I know it will probably never feel the same since this was my first, but my dad and I both agreed the experience was amazing. I ended up finishing in 2:13. My only goal was to finish so I am definitely pleased! Next time around (and there WILL be a next time) I hope to make a goal time and work on pacing myself a little more. My dad finished just a little after me, he's pretty awesome!
After the race my two best friends were waiting at the finish line for me (they're the best) and we found my aunt and dad. We finished the morning off with chocolate chip pancakes and coffee at my aunt's house. I later spent the rest of the day on my couch watching tv and fell asleep before 10pm. Philly half-marathon was a success! I now can't wait to sign up for another one, time to start investigating.
I finally purchased a long overdue pair of sneakers. After almost a year of switching between my asics and my brooks I am now the proud owner of the Mizuno Wave Inspire 8. I have heard great things about Mizuno Wave Riders and read about the Wave Inspires in this month's Runner's World so I decided to give them a try. I tested them out for a short run Wednesday and this morning and I am definitely a fan!
Thoughts:
-I really don't light shoes that are very heavy but need more support than the new light-weight running shoes provide. The Wave Inspires are very light and flexible. They were marked as shoes for stability though so they definitely provide enough support.
-They are narrow, which works for my feet but may not for everyone.
-The heel is higher than any other shoe I've worn and but cushioned. They feel different but a good different.
-I've run about 7 miles in them and they felt great the whole time.
Let's hope I'm raving about these babies after 13.3 miles as much as I am today. Philly half-marathon countdown- 2 days, ahhhh!!!!
Annndddd the weather for Sunday's race looks rather questionable. I've seen between 46-49 degrees and so far a 30% chance of rain. I'm really hoping this whole rain thing doesn't happen because this girl hates getting wet. I didn't retire from the sport of swimming just to pick up running in the rain. Even so, I am deciding on what to wear and have to plan for wet weather. Here's what I'm thinking so far:
1) Capris- Even if it gets a little warmer, I think I'm beginning to like running in spandex rather than shorts. Never thought I'd make the switch but I'm really not a fan of shorts rubbing between my legs for over 2 hours. I'm really digging my new Old Navy Active capris, check them out.
2) Sneakers- I know this is a big no-no before a race but I really need new shoes. My Brooks were great but are old and making my ankles hurt- shoe shopping is happening tomorrow.
3) Cushioned socks
4) Spi Belt- Obsessed. Will hold gels, TONS OF TISSUES, chapstick, etc.
5) Headband- Regular Goodie one I always wear, don't think it will be cold enough for a cold-weather headband.
6) Top- short-sleeves or long??? THAT IS THE QUESTION! I'm leaning towards short-sleeves with a throwaway sweatshirt on top but it's keeping me up at night! (not really but I am unsure).
7) Trash bag for rain? Seriously, what do I wear for rain besides this?
I probably won't make the final call on the outfit until right before but what do you think? My dad is absolutely no help seeing as he likes to run in long underwear and sweatpants from 1985 and thinks this is an appropriate outfit for me as well. Updates on my new shoes and running playlist later this week!
The Philadelphia Marathon and Half Marathon is only 3 weeks from tomorrow! Holy crap I almost fainted writing that. So I guess that means I'm feeling really prepared for my first half- no and yes. No, I have not been training like I planned too. A little over a month ago I came up with an extensive 8-week training plan that consisted of 3 days of running (including one long run), 2 days of strength training and 2 days of rest/yoga and stretching per/week. I've probably stuck to about 40% of that plan. Why? Something called my life has gotten in the way. I know, I've heard it all- schedule workouts, put your workout clothes on right away, mantras, etc. One, I schedule my workouts in multiple calendars but have a work, volunteering and studying schedule that changes daily and right now, I'm choosing making money and not failing over running. Two, I wear workout clothes as my normal clothes anyway so that's not doing a damn thing. Three, I can't seem to memorize mantras.
Ok, so in reality, I've always been busy but I have also always been able to walk to the gym or to where I want to run, now I have to drive. I can no longer run from class to work to the gym (which also used to be where work was in college) in a span of ten minutes, I now have 40 minute long commutes. I also don't have a perfectly set schedule that running fits into so nicely. I'm not trying to complain, I like being busy more than alternative. What I'm trying to say is that I've just had to adapt and accept it. I am only running 2-3 days/week, which isn't great, but I always manage to get my long run in. I am stretching often and doing yoga usually every other week and have tried to strength train once a week as well. It's not what my plan says, but I feel like my endurance is increasing, I am staying healthy (no injuries or illness *knock on wood*) and I am not at all burnt out. Finally, I'm just simply trying to finish. I'm excited about the crowds, the course, seeing friends and family, and the food (when I'm done)! So that's the yes part of my preparedness. Every day is a new opportunity for me to prepare and for these next three weeks that is what I am going to do- mentally and physically.
Anyone else running a half-marathon soon? Any tips for me from veterans?
Really wouldn't be surprised if I have no more readers but if I do then HI! I know, I know it has been so long since I've posted but I'm still here. This week I have midterms so its been crazy but after Thursday I will be done and it will be Halloween. BOOM. I will also be posting again!! Not as exciting. Until then I leave you with this video that I recommend you all watch and share. I saw it on my friend's Facebook and was very impacted by it. That is all.
Movies, a fun (if expensive) outing and usually enjoyable. Music, something I love to listen to when working out and getting ready to go out (read: pregaming) but am no expert in. TV, a passion of mine that trumps all other tasks and activities. The end of September means my favorite TV shows come back after a long 4 month hiatus and introduces me to new obsessions. I watch a a lot of TV (as you will soon realize) so I also have to give a special shout-out to my DVR for allowing me to keep up!
Shows I'm looking forward to returning this fall:
Parks and Recreation
Up All Night
The Office
(these three came back last night, thank god!)
2 Broke Girls
How I Met your Mother
Both on Monday 9/24 on CBS
New Girl- Tuesday 9/25 on FOX
Modern Family- Wednesday 9/26 on ABC
Grey's Anatomy- Thursday 9/27 on ABC
Revenge- Sunday 9/30 on ABC
Homeland- Sunday 9/30 on Showtime
Gossip Girl- Monday 10/8 on CW
New shows I want to check out:
The Mindy Project (already watched the pilot, loved it!) Tuesday 9/25 on FOX
Last Resort- Thursday 9/27 on ABC
Nashville- Wednesday October 10 on ABC
Am I the only one here that's this obsessed with TV (besides my friend Becky of course)? What shows will you be watching this fall?
...pumpkin spiced oats hit up the breakfast table!
The weather in Philly this week has been beautiful- with the exception of Tuesday's crazy storm. High of 70's is always when it begins to feel like fall- the mornings are cool but it's still sunny and breezy. This weekend is supposed to be in the 60's too, I can't wait!
I've already begun drinking my pumpkin spiced lattes and coffees but to get in the mood this morning, inspiration hit and this happened:
+
=
Pumpkin spiced oats with walnuts, cinnamon and a cinnamon-sugar mix + coffee. YUM! The only thing that would have taken these to the next level is pumpkin spice. I'll get on that for next time.
Other things I'm looking forward to this fall:
-Long, chilly runs
-A new fleece or vest
-Boot season!
-Candles
-Halloween
-Going on a hayride
-Starting my EMT field training
-The Philly 1/2 marathon in November
-My favorite holiday, Thanksgiving
I have class this morning followed by some major studying. I may also sneak in some time to watch my new favorite show, Brothers and Sisters. I'm obsessed. Have a great Thursday everyone!
After a couple months of denying it, I finally have to admit that I have been in a food rut for a while now. This summer when I was living on my own I cooked all my own food and consistently made/snacked on the same foods. Now that I'm living at home, I am more limited in what I am eating (I go for whatever is in the kitchen so save money) but am still sticking to the same foods. I have a really busy/strange schedule this semester that requires a lot of snacks, meals at unusual times and early dinners. I think its time to think of this as an opportunity to start eating more creatively.
Any foods you're falling into a rut with (my snacks are awful!)? Any new food ideas I should know about?
It is only the second week of classes and I have already had one quiz and have one more and two tests next week. Talk about a weekend buzz kill. I find myself enjoying studying int he beginning of a semester more though because I am in really organized and in the school mode still, not yet burnt out and have fun school supplies to play with. These sentiments will soon change, as usual. But anyways, here is how I'm planning to make studying more enjoyable and more manageable this weekend:
1.Organize your area- Before I start a big chunk
of studying I like to set up everything I need up around me.That means my books and folders are
out.My phone is off to the side
and on silent next to tissues, chapstick and a water bottle.My computer is charging.All my pens, markers, highlighters are
out and ready to go. Yes, I am a little OCD.
2.Put on Pandora for some background noise- I like
listening to music sometimes, like when I’m making flashcards, other times when
I’m reading I like silence.My
favorite station to listen to- get this- is the Lord of the Dance station.Happy instrumental Irish jams stimulate
deep thoughts J
3.Switch back and forth between subjects- if you
are studying for two different classes like I am now, I can’t help but feel the
need to get do everything at once, but it makes things less monotonous to take
time working on one class for say 45 min-1 hr. then switch to the other, so on
and so forth.
4.Notecards and Notebooks- Notecards are going to
be my boyfriend who never leaves my side this year.They are great for writing out
definitions and help me learn while I make them and later while going over
them.Make sure to organize them
by unit or exam for your finals later.I also love notebooks for rewriting notes I typed out in class or for
drawing diagrams or charts I make up to help me remember stuff.
5.Take a YouTube break- Don’t burn yourself out,
everyone needs breaks.My favorite
break is watching old So You Think You Can Dance videos I have bookmarked. I dare you not to get pumped up watching Twitch do a hip-hop routine.
6.Hydrate- Tea puts me to sleep so that’s
out.If its earlier, coffee all
the way.And I always need a full
bottle of water next to me.
7.Don’t go overboard- If you are spending the
morning studying, plan something fun to do or go exercise or watch a movie in
the afternoon.I’m studying Friday
night so I’m going to go out Saturday.Don’t be a crazy hermit just because you have work to do.
Any more study tips out there? Good school supplies I'm missing out on?
It's Thursdayyyy, my weekend of studying is almost here! As I may have alluded to in my last post, I am taking a few classes this year that are leaving me very busy. I have a really weird schedule and long commutes. Seriously, driving is the worst and I have no patience for those who go under the speed limit. Therefore, my workouts have not been very consistent. I think that will change in a few weeks once I start training for the Philly 1/2 marathon, but for now, I am going to try to fit in workouts that are short and effective because that's all I can do right now.
My dad and I have been getting into looking up short Crossfire-esque workouts, which are perfect right now. I am by no means a Crossfit (I wanna try it so badly though!) or fitness expert at all, but I have been finding workouts on Pinterest and on other blogs and have adapted them to my level. I also have a brand spankin new notebook to write my workouts in. I am trying to write down my weights and times so I can work on doing workouts again and improving, instead of guessing what I did last time.
Today I did this workout from Carrots n Cake, but as you can see I adjusted it to work for me. It was really quick but hard!! I followed it up with a plank period--> 30 sec.--> 45 sec.--> 1 min.--> 45 sec.--> 30 sec.
How do you adapt your workouts to fit a new schedule? Anyone else trying mini-crossfit workouts? Do you like my notebook? ha.
Hi! I've know I've been gone for a little but I'm in a major transition period- between summer and fall and between college and the "real world"- and am still trying to get on a normal schedule. Here are a few quick updates on what have been going on in my life though, and by updates, I mean ramblings.
-I started class exactly one week ago today. Not at Rochester for the first time in 4 years and it felt really weird. I sort of feel like I'm in high school again, but again, I'm stuck in that strange transition between college and graduate school and I'm just going to have to suck it up.
-If you think full-time jobs are hard to find, part-time jobs are even harder. Actually, I have no idea but they are frustrating because you have to work around school schedules. I have a part-time job lined up that is right up my alley, but things about it are unclear right now, so I'm keeping my options open. For now, I'm working at a pool and babysitting, which is nice and easy and making me feel even more like a high schooler.
-Enough rambling/complaining. I made it to Boston the weekend before last to visit 2 of my best friends from high school It was SO GREAT to see them. The best thing about old friends is that even if we don't talk everyday, things are always the same when we get together. I find that so comforting. Also, Boston is beautiful. We walked around the whole city Saturday, and by whole city, I mean whole city, taking in all of the sights and scenes. I still have blisters from it but it was so fun and the weather was beautiful. I also finally was able to try Mary-Lou's coffee!!! After hearing Tina from Carrots n' cake rave about it so often I was dying to go. Ladies and gentlemen, it did not disappoint! I had to get a peanut butter delight and added a travel mug in there as well. How about opening a branch in Philly?
-Pretty Little Liars finale last week anyone? I won't give anything away but the betrAyal was no lie!! Can't wait till it comes back in October. (Also, title of this post should actually be called "Olivia is in high school"). I'm now really ready for fall tv shows to start up again- Homeland, I'm looking at you.
I leave you with this old school jam, Mcginn and I rediscovered on our Boston roadtrip. It may be cursed because we were listening to it when her tire got skinned and forced us to pull over and call AAA, but don't say you haven't been warned!
Today is the one day I am not babysitting this week (besides Friday, but more on that in another post), so I decided to spice up the old blog a little bit. As you can see, I've changed the homepage template and also added some social media widgets on the right-hand column. I am taking my new pink and navy obsession very seriously. I've also updated some the current obsessions (formerly favorite things), about slightly and workouts pages. I am really new to this blogging business so it took me a while, but so far I am happy with the changes. Hopefully, as I continue to learn, more changes will come.
It's already 5pm but I still have some things to tackle on my to-do list for today.
1) Writing up some new blog posts for the week (trying to get back on track!)
2) Finishing laundry from vacation
3) Figuring out how to fit a desk into my room
4) Watching another episode of weeds :)
5) Sauteing some vegetables for dinner
6) Ending the night with some So you think you can dance
I know the tv-watching will at least get accomplished... Hope you like the new lay-out!
I'll admit it, I have a huge problem when it comes to re-wearing items in my closet. We hear it again and again that we should buy pieces that you can re-wear often with multiple pieces in your closet. I though, absolutely hate wearing a piece of clothing again until 2-3 weeks later. I think reasons for this maybe, a) I'm too lazy to think of a completely different but equally as fashionable way to style the piece again (I have a few go-to looks for certain pieces of clothing) and b) I don't like "wasting" a certain outfit for random occasions. I like to wear my best outfits where people can see them. Anyone else have these problems?
These are major issues I'm trying to work through; so let's call it wardrobe rehab. My current fashion practices are not very economical and and are leaving my outfit choices stale. My goal for fall is to buy pieces that will work with the clothing already in my closet and that can be styled and worn often. Pretty basic, right? Here are some pieces of clothing that can be worn together and with clothing already in my closet:
How would you style these items? What do you have your eye on for fall?
I'm off for a much needed vacation with the family in OBX. As a write this, I'm attempting to stay awake all night so I can sleep during the long car ride we are embarking on at 5 am. It's currently 10 pm and I'm already struggling.
I believe it took me only 4 days to finish Gone Girl: A Novel and I know it would have been even shorter if I wasn't running around all day Monday. If you are a fan of crime novels/tv shows, psychological thrillers, or are looking for a captivating read, then Gone Girl is for you.
Gillian Flynn's novel follows married couple Nick and Amy Dunne. They appear to have the perfect marriage, but after Amy goes missing on the couple's fifth wedding anniversary, the truth about their relationship slowly begins to unravel. Nick appears to be acting strange for a man who's wife has gone missing and slowly, the general public begins to turn on him as he becomes the case's key suspect. Meanwhile, Amy's side of the story is being revealed through diary passages written by her over the past five years.
Gone Girl has a number of twists and turns that kept me very engaged. By the middle of the book, everything I has initially that about the main characters had changed. The book focused on the relationship between Amy and Nick and the psychological states of the two more than the case itself, which I enjoyed. Without giving too much away, it was interesting to look into the mind of someone who could be considered a "psychopath", with no morals or concern for others. In reading this book, it also made me think about what we really do not know about the people involved in cases we hear about on the news.
I haven't read many good books this summer so I'm glad I decided to give Gone Girl a look. I'm also now interested in checking out other books by Flynn, including Sharp Objects and Dark Places.
Have you read Gone Girl? What other books have you enjoyed this summer? (I need a beach read for next week!)
I just moved back home 2 days ago and have been busy catching up with friends, running errands, and trying to organize my mess of a room. Also, I don't know about you, but instead of inspiring me to workout more, the Olympics have just made me sit around more often, staring at the tv in awe of the swimmers and gymnasts. I'm ready to get back into my exercise routine though. I started with a nice run around my neighborhood yesterday morning and have a new full body circuit workout for you this evening. It was inspired by a workout I just pinned on pinterest (follow me here). I find myself doing that a lot- using previous workouts as a base and then adding my own moves and taking out ones I'm not into.
For the arm portion of this workout, I decided to try out our Bodyblade, after being reminded of it by my dad. It is still taking some getting used to, but you can get a tiring workout in such a short amount of time. For more info on the body blade and the exercises listed below, check out their website here.
I think my title explains it all. I really can't believe August is tomorrow. That means I only have 3 more days in Rochester before I move back to Philly. It also means that I have to start getting ready for the pre-req classes I'm taking and still find a part-time job. I do hope to have some sun in August though, and after doing almost everything I wanted in July, I think I'll be able to do even more this month.
This is a double whammy- hang out all next week with Del since she's back from Paris for a limited time only, and make it to a Phillies game since I'll finally be home!
Eat a lot of Ritas. Water ice, not italian ice thank you very much.
Hit up Boston with my friend Caitlin and visit home/ Rochester friends
Actually do some of this. Here are some book ideas btw. Also, best poster to grace the walls of an elementary school ever. So seductive.
Get organized for classes with a new planner, new school supplies, books, etc. I <3 school shopping even after I've graduated.
Don't we all. Part-time only though. See above ^
Find a yoga studio nearby! I think it will really help the tightness and soreness from running.
While I'm really bummed to be leaving Rochester so soon, I'm pumped to see what August has in store for me!
Air high-five right now for it being Friday!! Even though I have to work all weekend, it is still indeed the weekend. Speaking of work, I was almost hoping I'd get fired yesterday (since I only have a week left of work) after ringing in the wrong order and spilling a glass of wine on a diner and his dinner. But, my supervisor was very helpful and understanding, how awful. Hopefully my brain and clumsiness will be more in line today.
As a fresh pot is brewing, let's get to it. Here is an ode to the current love of my life, the elixir of the gods, the drink that makes the world go round, COFFEE. **Disclaimer, I am no poet, evidenced below**
How I love the sweet smell of you in the morning, when my eyes are barely open.
How you can come steaming hot in the winter, and cold and icy in the summer.
I love you in your quick Keurig fashion, but old school is good too.
Your caffeine may not have any actual affect on me, but I still need you everyday, in any shape or form.
Dunkin Donuts will always be my go-to, but a hungover mug Sunday morning at a diner will do too.
Drinking you alone in the morning is not the only option.
You are even important enough for people to use you as a reason to go on dates.
So, goat herder Kaldi, give yourself a pat on the back, you've provided me with the perfect compliment for my favorite morning snack.
1, 2, 5 times a day..my love for coffee is never going away.
Strangest but most awesome post I've ever written. Expect more odes to come. I will also work on that sometimes rhyming thing I did up there. Have a great weekend!!
In only a couple of weeks I'll be headed down to OBX with my whole extended family for vacation. We used to all go down together when I was in middle school/high school but my family hasn't been down for a while. I've been feeling really tired out lately and will be starting classes, work (hopefully) and more volunteering at the end of August, so let's just say I am really looking forward to this vacation. I plan on relaxing at the beach during the day and the pool morning and night, eating and drinking to my hearts desire (healthy eating can take a vacation too) and getting in some nice runs near the ocean. Here are the basics my dream suitcase would consist of: