Happy Friday, friends!
If there is one thing I look forward to at the end of a long work week, it is meeting up with a friend or two for happy hour. I have been trying to think of a clever way to title these “catching up on life” posts for quite some time. Being as my blog is called “Happily Jenny” along with the fact that “Happy Hour” is a time for light-hearted conversation and catching up with friends, it seems fitting to share these life updates with you on Fridays and call it just that- Happy Hour. I have a feeling that these are going to be a lot of fun and quite possibly my favorite blogs to write. Cheers to number one!
The weather is such a cliche topic to bring up, but we got a lot of snow this week (we are in a blizzard warning as I write this) and I think I have finally found my Christmas Spirit- in January. This past December was one that I would classify as more challenging and it was very hard for me to feel the magic of Christmas this year. We battled a lot of sickness both within our family and at work, which led to parties and get togethers having to be rescheduled. It seems like this happened for a lot of others this year as well. I think the lack of snow took away some of that feeling too. If you are from the MidWest, you know the feeling I am talking about. There is something special about a white Christmas that adds to the merriment of the season. Although late, Mother Nature finally decided to deliver. I used to not like snow, but the older I get the more I appreciate the sense of peace that a good snowfall can bring. It’s cold outside, but there is a warmth it provides inside. Ever since my festive spirit has been sparked, so has my interest in finishing the Christmas novel that I couldn’t seem to get into a month ago. Go figure! There is truly nothing better than cozying up with a good book and a cup of coffee while the snow gently falls outside your window. I do miss the twinkle lights though.
With that much being said, let’s get to the good stuff! A common theme that I have picked up on over the years is that many have the desire to work on health and fitness as soon as January 1st comes around. Consistently creating content for this blog is my goal for 2024, but I would be lying if I told you I wasn’t sprinkling in a bit more exercise for my own well-being too. Along with establishing a workout routine, it is always fun to get a few new things that give you just a bit more motivation to get that body moving. Here are the top 5 things that I have been loving so far this year…
1. Walking Pad
My cousin introduced me to the walking pad early last year and I have been intrigued by it ever since. Volunteering at a barn helps to get some extra steps in during the week, but during the off season I have come to realize how much of a difference that small amount of exercise had made both mentally and physically. When you live where it’s cold, finding the willpower to move can be quite daunting. I decided to get my own walking pad shortly after Christmas and let me tell you, it has been the best purchase that I have made this year!
2. Shorts
I am a huge Carrie Underwood fan, so it should come as no surprise that I was fully on board when she launched her activewear brand, Calia, in 2015. She has since left the brand, but Calia is still one of my go-to’s when looking for new athletic apparel. These shorts are incredibly comfortable and move with you during a workout. The best part? They are on sale for under $14.00!
3. The Most Comfortable Shoes
I was first drawn to APL due to their visual appeal. They come in a lot of fun colors to compliment your style and have such a classic, simple look. I decided to splurge on a pair and was blown away with the level of comfort this brand offers. I later found them at Dick’s Sporting Goods where they seem to be on sale occasionally. When you sign up for the Dick’s Sporting Goods Scorecard, you accumulate points that can be redeemed towards future purchases. I love a good deal as much as the next girl, so this is a double win!
4. Travel Sized Foam Roller
We have reached the point in our year where we are traveling less, but this was a purchase I made this summer that I really loved! A foam roller is a excellent way to reduce tight muscles and I also find it to help when my legs get restless at night. This one from Lululemon is a 2-in-1. There is a larger foam roller on the outside, but the inner portion will slide out and give you a smaller roller to target different areas. Highly recommend!
5. Hydration Companion
I know.. sharing a Stanley cup is about as Cliche as talking about the weather.. but hear me out. One of my girlfriend’s gifted me the 40oz Stanley last year for Christmas. It was not on the ever growing list of things I wanted to buy, but it instantly became one of my most used items this year. I love it! This guy holds a LOT of water and has kept it ice cold during the hot summer months spent volunteering, working or being outside. For some reason, I really do find myself drinking more water when I carry it around. Definitely a good habit to establish during any season!
I hope that you enjoyed this little recap for the week along with some personal recommendations. These blogs will more than likely continue to get better as I learn the site more and figure out my style for images. Any tips and tricks for photography are welcomed! Have the best weekend!
Love from the Heartland,
Jenn
Love the title!!! Cheers to you!
Thank you! It took a while to come up with something fun and catchy!