ClassPass launches in Orange County!

I love trying out new work out classes, and lets be honest it seems about every month there is a new studio popping up with a "new" style of work out.

I usually stick with the basic running (see 1/2 marathon post) and Pilates to lengthen and lean.  Given I have attended the same studios for years, give or take a few in between,  I really enjoy the opportunity ClassPass gives me to check out other local options with out a significant commitment.  My first class was at Club Pilates Costa Mesa, I know its my norm, but it gave me a chance to check out another studio while still staying within my comfort zone. Brittany, the instructor was very welcoming and super friendly, the class was about 1/2 full and she payed close attention to everyone.

I have to say the best part of ClassPass is the confidence that comes along with it.  I didn't feel like I was walking in with a Groupon or paid for a discounted service, the studio treated me like I was a regular member.  Next up is Grit cycle and Dailey Method! both studios I have never been to and workouts I have not participated in for years!!! Check out ClassPass and their participating studios Here. 

Club Pilates Costa Mesa, CA 

Valentine's Day Gift Guide

Ily Couture Tees Red Hearts & "Wifey" // Chloe Perfume // Estee Lauder Nail Polish // Pink Luggage Set // Tory Burch Eye Shadow Palette // Jennifer Meyer Heart Earrings {less expensive version here // Valentino Bow Pump // Saint Laurent Bucket Bag {less expensive version here} // Tom Ford Lipstick // Patent Leather Hunter Boots

Valentin's Day is just a week away!  Naturally, I want everything in pink or red.  :)  What's on your wish list?

XO, Lydia

Tri- City half marathon

Happy Tuesday! I hope everyone had a great weekend.  I spend mine completing one of my 2015 goals, which was running the Tri-city medical half marathon in Carlsbad, CA.  I set this goal on my 30th birthday and feel accomplished that I was able to follow through with it.  I created a running plan to follow, but fell a little short and did not prepare for this race as well as I had for prior races.  That being said I still set my time goal high, with a completion time of 2hrs.  

The morning of the race I felt relaxed and confident, the week prior I ate a clean diet, maintained good sleep habits and stretched my muscles daily.  These good habits really seemed to help we feel great on race day.   

Once I got into my "wave" group I was ready to go, the first 7/8 miles I cruised up and down the coasts rolling hills.  Once I finished mile 8 my plan was so slow slightly and speed up again for miles 11-13, that would have worked if I had not eaten an orange slice!  I had to slow my pace due to a major side cramp, I was really bummed but pushed along and finished the race in 2:02, 2 minutes slower then my goal.  I am very competitive with myself and was really bummed about my time and how I felt at the end of the race.  I am glad I completed the race and feel great about how strong my first half of the run was, now I am ready to beat that time and continue my weekly runs.  

Lesson learned here:  Don't eat the orange and over prepare. 

Until next time!

Carlsbad  beach

Start of the race

Casual Contrast {Happy Weekend!}

Outfit Details:

Shift Dress / Black Leggings // Dolce Vita Suede Boots from Piperlime {on sale now} // Plaid Scarf // Chanel Bag // Rayban Sunglasses

Fridays are all about catching up on errands, emails and maybe a lunch date with the hubbs!  I'm getting to do all that today.  I'm also wearing these boots on this chilly day and realized I never shared this look from a couple weeks ago.  I love the look of blacks and neutrals.  The contrast is so chic and effortless.  This color palate is my staple as of late...if you haven't noticed.  Also, these suede Dolce Vita boots are on sale at Piperlime.  I love the sleek structure and rich color,  and they are pretty comfortable for a weekend around town!

My weekends have been so crazy lately. With holidays and travel, its been go go go!  But I hate staying home and not doing much so I love it!  This weekend will also jammed packed - going bridesmaid dress shopping for my cousin's wedding, photo session for next week's blog posts, church and hoping to squeeze in a workout or two.  And not to mention I'm fighting a cold.  blah!

Of course, the most exciting part will bridesmaid dress shopping.  I love anything related to weddings.  Who doesn't, am I right!  I hope she'll let me share the wedding planning process here on the blog because there's a part of me who wants to go totally overboard with the bridal shower/bachelorette party details but not sure if she's into that.  Perhaps I won't give her a choice. ha! {Just kidding Agnes} She's the most organized and prepared bride-to-be I've ever known, so I'm sure its already taken care of. :)  I can't wait for the big day!

What are your weekend plans?


XO, Lydia