Happy Friday! I loved stumbling upon this mural on Valentine’s Day last week. It was such a good reminder that love can look like a lot of different things and came at a time when I really needed it. It’s across from Fieldhouse Jones in River North if you want to see it for yourself. 🙂

I took my friend Liz to Ethos on Wednesday night (she runs the Overheard in Chicago Instagram account and is one of the funniest, most genuine people I’ve ever met) and we got in such a good workout together! I’ve really been struggling with my motivation lately and it’s always easier getting there when I know someone else is counting on me to show up. Thinking of getting a group together for another evening class at Ethos next month if there is enough interest. If this is something you’re up for let me know in the comments of this Instagram post, tag a buddy you’d like to come along with you, or come solo and meet a new friend, and I’ll get back to you with details on what I’m thinking! 🙂 I had a great time meeting you all at Yoga Six and hope to keep these up.

Weekly Rounds, Vol 94

This week was a little all over the place so I’m planning on lots of yoga, getting outside for some runs, and doing a little pre-spring cleaning these next few days (that way I can really enjoy the season when it rolls around).

I hope you enjoy this round-up of links and find something you love!

Journaling prompt: What’s one thing you’re excited about right now? It can be big or small…there is no right or wrong (a go-to whenever I’m feeling stuck!)

Song of the week: 1950 – King Princess. Turn it up and listen as you browse. 🙂

I can’t tell you how much I love my new crop tops from Athleta!

I got the one on the left in “dress blue” and the one on the right in “arbor olive.” Full disclosure: they were gifted them to me in exchange for a post (and giveaway!) I’m working on for Instagram here soon, but Athleta truly makes some of my favorite workout wear and I’ve been wearing it for years. This isn’t a typical style I gravitate toward and thus further proof that I need to keep getting outside of my comfort zone in all areas of life. 😉

Got the nicest email from a new reader this week about this personal post I penned.

Really want to get back to talking more about dating here on the blog! I know we connect over that on Instagram stories, but I’m brainstorming ways we can dive a little deeper. All ears if you have questions for me!

I had a chance to try out a Tune session at the Lululemon off North Ave.

And it was just the thing my brain needed. Tuning is a 15-minute process of using bio frequencies and vibration to bring the mind and body to a meditative state and it works. Basically, you put on a pair of headphones and eye mask and then lay on a bed covered in a blanket and the machine does the rest. It’s wonderful. (You can see more on my stories!) They offer 7 different types of sessions all targeting certain things you’re hoping to minimize and maximize in your life. I went with the “Create” session which is said to help minimize stress, exhaustion, and burn out. And in turn, helps to maximize creativity, happiness, and problem solving!

I’m dying to get back there to take a guided meditation class so I can try out these meditation cushions the room had.

I also took a yoga sculpt class (not to be underestimated if you’re looking for a good sweat!) and then showered there, which is something I never do but had to in order to make the class time work with my schedule. Not only are was there a waterfall shower head, but they hung eucalyptus from it and wow…heavenly! I’ve suffered from allergies and sinus problems for my entire life (even had an adenoidectomy back in college to help relieve some of the chronic infections I was getting. Because not only was I tired of popping pills non-stop, but my body had become immune to the antibiotics).

I was reading up on the benefits and the steam of the shower helps the plant release essential oils which assists in clearing up congestion and relieving you of inflammation. Going to pick some up immediately so I can do the same at home simply for my health. But it also seems like a really easy way to make showers feel a little more luxurious and relaxing. They offer a FREE week of sweat and meditation classes for first timers!

I’m so excited to be heading back to Kansas City in early April to run the Rock the Parkway Half Marathon for the third time!

It was my very first half years ago and will always feel extra special for this reason. They were kind enough to comp my race entry and I’m looking forward to sharing more from my runs this weekend. It’s supposed to be in the 40s and I can’t wait to get out along the lake! Taking what I can get after single digit windchills all week.

Every time I went bike riding last summer (more times than I can count) I rented a bike from this little stand by the water for $10/hour. While this was super convenient, it adds up! I’d love to own a bike so I’m able to hop on and go whenever. Or just to cruise around the city for little errands that I normally walk to or even my workouts. This is basically my dream bike. I’d add a little basket for the front, too!

I wore these relaxed fit summer jeans from Madewell all the time last spring/summer but found they got baggy really quickly (which I learned is because they’re made of 100% cotton and I needed to size down even more than I did). I’m wondering if the 1% of elastane in these Levi’s would make any difference? Going to give them a shot and will report back if I find success. Because I think they look super close to the AGOLDE cropped jeans for half the price and I’m all for that.

I love reading about money and Meghan’s tips on how she manages her income to create the lifestyle she wants is a reminder that it takes work and dedication.

Also loved Olivia’s Twitter thread on always asking for more money! I’m a big proponent of this and was actually just talking with my friend back in KC about it this week. And…

…if you’re a freelance writer or are hoping to make a big career move this year, but aren’t sure where to start, Olivia is launching a digital course that will offer advice on pitching (she’s worked as an Editor at Bustle. So there’s no one better to learn from than someone who has sat on both sides), strategies for keeping things like deadlines and payments in order, and a whole lot more – sign up here to stay in the know!

I’ve been wearing OPI’s “Cajun Shrimp” on my nails for years!

It used to be a shade I loved just for the color, but now it has a deeper, more personal meaning. And makes me feel close to my best friend whenever I’m wearing it. Great for spring and summer!

The holiday may be over, but these are all really great gift ideas or “treat yourself” things!

Never not using Classpass to bounce around to some of my favorite workout studios. It’s been fun to switch up my normal routine! I forgot just how crazy sore I am after a Studio Lagree class wooo. You can get $40 off your first month of credits here.

Remember the green polka dot midi dress I lived in last spring/summer? I’ve never owned anything from Tory Burch. Aside from my workout tights from her “sport” line, I just know it’s high quality and in turn, pricey. This dress really speaks to me!

This BB Dakota dress I shared last summer is back!

A new-to-me brand and the cutest mini tote I ever did see. Is it apparent by now that I have warmer weather (and the wardrobe that comes with it) on my mind?!

As usual, don’t forget to check out the sale section on Shopbop! It takes a little digging, but I’ve found so many great investment pieces there. And I almost always make it a point to check “what’s new” each day and favorite the pieces I’m interested in.

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Alright, that’s all I’ve got for you today. I hope your weekend is great, however you’re spending it! I’m always sharing in real-time over on Instagram stories, so be sure to follow along there.