Weekend Update :: All Around Town

Another fun summer weekend! Plenty of fun things to do despite the hot temps.

Friday night we met friends for a sushi dinner at Umi. Afterwards we ran some errands and got some DQ for dessert.

Saturday morning we were up early for a run and a bike ride. Breakfast for each of us was a great big smoothie (see recipe here). After some chores around the house we drove out to Lake Lindenlure to hang out in the cool water. We ate dinner at home and watched Invictus afterwards. I really liked this movie. Morgan Freeman played Nelson Mandela very well.

Sunday morning was similar to Saturday - early morning exercise followed by smoothies for breakfast. We headed to church then came home again for lunch. After relaxing and reading a bit we walked over to the Springfield Art Museum. There is a great watercolor exhibition right now that is definitely worth seeing. Plus it's cool and slightly dark inside the museum. Perfect for a hot afternoon.

Weekend Update :: Jam Packed, Fun Filled, Part II

Another fun weekend with family and friends!

Friday morning we got to meet my brother's new baby girl! Such an exciting occasion! We hung out, had some lunch and talked about our family's newest addition. That evening we had dinner with R's parents followed by a few rounds of Rummikub.

Saturday morning R dropped me off at my TRX class so I could run home afterwards. We did some work around the house before heading to a graduation party. Also a quick stop to visit the baby again. After the party we headed downtown to see Big Smith and Hat Trick at Patton Alley Pub. We also wanted to try the newly debuted Mother's Brewing Co beer. A fun day all around!

Sunday morning we slept in and crossed a few tasks off our list. After lunch we headed out for bike rides with friends. Despite the windy conditions, we rode a little more than 30 miles. That evening we celebrated a birthday with R's family at Cheddar's.

Hopefully a sunny week ahead!

Weekend Update :: Jam Packed, Fun Filled!

It felt like summer this weekend. The sun was shining and the weather was perfect! Lots of fun festivities too.

Friday night my family joined us for dinner downtown at Grad School then a tour of the First Friday Art Walk.

Saturday morning I did some work around the house before heading out for a jog around the neighborhood. That afternoon I attended a perfectly southern Kentucky Derby party. Lots of pretty dresses and hats. Afterwards we had a Fiesta de Mayo party to attend! Another great party with awesome food and good company.

Sunday morning we slept in and lazed around a bit. We took R's mom to a pizza luncheon at Arris's Pizza. That afternoon I napped and enjoyed a little sunshine too. A nice dinner outside rounded out the fun weekend.

Hope your weekend was wonderful too!

Weekend Update :: Spring time fun!

The past few weeks have been busy! Here's what we were up to this past weekend.

Cocktail hour at Flame

Friday night my company celebrated the end of tax season at Flame Steakhouse. It was a great evening with amazing food, good company and even some funny comedians.

Saturday morning I went to my weekly TRX class before heading up to the lake. I spent the afternoon with my mom and sister. We had a great time talking and enjoying the beautiful Spring weather.

Sunday morning I got in a good workout before church. That afternoon we hung out with R's family to celebrate some birthday's.

Hope your weekend was great too!

Weekend Update :: Running Around St. Louis

The long awaited weekend of the half marathon! We trained for three months and the big day was finally here. How did it go? Read below for full recap.

Friday night I packed and prepped for the weekend away. We stayed in for dinner then watched "Wall Street Money Never Sleeps."

Saturday morning we left town at 9am. We grabbed a sandwich in Kirkwood before meeting my cousin and her new baby girl. Then we drove downtown to get my race packet and check into our hotel. We met our friends for a pasta dinner then got in bed early.

Sunday morning I got up at 4:45 to eat breakfast and drink a strong cup of coffee. We walked to the start line and I found my running buddies. The sun was rising over the Arch and the weather was perfect. The start gun went off about 7:05 am and we were off. Miles 1-5 were great! We ran through Soulard and the Anheuser brewery. I was feeling great and excited to be running strong.

Before the race

About halfway through mile 6 I started to slow down and decided to eat some Hammer Gel (running fuel). We took our first walking break when we reached the next water station. Miles 7 and 8 were completely uphill. They seemed to last endlessly.  When we ran through SLU campus the spectators cheered us on and it helped push us forward.

Waving at our cheering section

I got a second wind during mile 9. I pushed forward alone and only stopped a few times to drink water. When I hit mile 11 everything went downhill. The sun was blazing hot at this point and the hills were tough. It took everything to keep moving forward. The finish line was in sight and I kept repeating my mantra, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Pushing hard to the finish line

Finally I reached the end and hobbled through the finish area. I gulped some water and kept walking. My legs have never hurt so bad. But I had finished strong and it felt great!

We did it!

Afterwards we returned to our hotel to stretch and shower. I couldn't believe it was all over. We enjoyed a delicious breakfast buffet then walked over to the arch to explore. It was a great end to a wonderful experience!

Weekend Update :: Spring is here!

Just when you feel like winter will never end, the beautiful spring weather swoops in to save the day! I couldn't be more thrilled to see daffodils popping out, dogwood trees beginning to bloom and long sunny days that stretch past dinner.

Friday morning I woke up at my usual time but spent the day at home instead of heading into the office. I turned on some great music and 'spring-cleaned' at home. It was wonderful! That evening we celebrated our third wedding anniversary at one of my favorite restaurants: Ocean Zen.

Saturday morning I attended a challenging TRX class at Balance Fitness. The rainy afternoon was perfect for some coffee and magazines at Starbuck's. That evening we stayed home with chicken pot pie for dinner.

Sunday morning we were up early. R headed to St. Louis for a bike race and I met a friend for a short run. Afterwards I went to church and then spent the rest of the day outside. The weather was truly perfect for the first day of spring!

Happy spring to you!

Weekend Update :: Get Connected

BFF's from High School

It was a great weekend despite the winter winter that returned.

Friday night I reconnected with the pool at St. John's Fitness Center. It was a great workout and also fun to splash around while it rained outside. R was busy after dinner so I relaxed with a girl-y movie, some red wine and a red velvet cupcake!

Saturday I reconnected with my sore hamstrings at a Pilates/Yoga class at Balance Fitness. The warm and cozy studio was welcoming from the cold, dreary morning. Afterwards I drove to the lake to reconnect with my good friends from high school. We had a great time catching up and fussing over the new baby. The rest of the afternoon and evening was spent connecting with my family.

Sunday morning I was up early for a 9 mile run. It was slightly cool but tons of beautiful sunshine! That afternoon I did some chores and worked around the house. Also spent some time connecting with the couch and a good book! Later that night we went to R's parents' for dinner and tax work.

Weekend Update :: Highlights

This weekend was busy! Lots of errands and other things to do. Thankfully we had warm temps and mostly sunny skies again.

Friday - highlights of the day - leaving work a little early to enjoy the beautiful weather. Plus a yummy calzone for dinner and dark chocolate/red wine for dessert.

Saturday - highlights of the day -attending a deliciously relaxing yoga class followed by a challenging but fun barre class at the new Balance Fitness Studio.

Sunday - highlights of the day - trying a new curried chicken recipe and cranking out a solid 8 mile run.

Weekend Update :: A Warm One

After all of the snow and cold temperatures, this weekend's warming trend was much appreciated! Starting on Friday there was lots of sunshine and it makes for a fun weekend.

Friday evening we collected some odds and ends from Mama Jean's before dinner. Then R made a delicious sage butter sauce and served it over gnocchi. Afterwards we watched a movie and went to bed early.

Saturday morning I was up early and in the kitchen. After a few projects I cleaned up and headed out for a nice long walk outside. That evening we met R's parents for dinner then went to the store for a big grocery run.

Sunday morning R made delicious waffles for breakfast. That afternoon I knocked out a big 10 mile run. It was very warm for the middle of February! Especially with the snow still lingering around. Afterwards I lounged around with some good eats, a movie and even started a new book before bed.

Hope this great weather sticks around 'till Spring!

Weekend Update :: Winter is Fun

Normally January is not my favorite month. The holidays are over and the cold, dark weather seems relentless. However if this weekend is any indication, then the rest of month should be fun! It seems like 2011 is off to a great start!

Friday night we headed to A&B Cycle to join the group spin class. It is hard class but lots of good music helps keep it fun. Afterwards they have some snacks and beer. Check it out sometime!

Saturday morning I cranked out some chores at home. My mom came down around noon to spend the afternoon with me. We had a great time shopping, running errands and hanging out. We wrapped the afternoon with some lattes from The Coffee Ethic downtown. It's such a cozy place. That evening we baked up a delicious calzone for dinner and chocolate chip cookie bars for dessert.

Sunday morning we went to church. That afternoon I braved the cold for a hilly 6 mile run. Later, R's parents had us over for dinner and a game of Spinners!

Weekend Update :: Old Friends

This one will be short and sweet...

Friday night I met some old college friends for happy hour at MudLounge. I always forget how much I like this place. And they have some amazing deals at happy hour. It was so fun to catch up!

Saturday morning we were up early. I met a friend to run 4 miles then we jumped in the car for our trip to St. Louis. Another one of our friends from college was getting married. It was a fun celebration!

Sunday morning we slept in a bit and meandered over to St. Louis Bread Co from our hotel in Westport. Once we got home it was time for some outdoor chores and errands. Ended the weekend with a nice dinner and movie at home.

Weekend Update :: November is here

We have now started the second week in November! Seems like this year has just flown by. Lots of fun activities this weekend...

Friday night we made dinner at home and watched The Namesake.

Saturday morning I cleaned the house and met a friend to tour all of the Christmas open houses. It was a fun afternoon with lots of sunshine! That evening we met again at Opehlia's Tapas and Wine Bar before heading to the Springfield Little Theater for a play.

Sunday morning we were up early for my first 5k! It was a beautiful morning and lots of racers (more than 2,000) showed up for the various events.

We celebrated with a delicious breakfast at Aunt Martha's afterwards! The afternoon was just a nice so we stained the deck and worked on the house. A big grocery run followed. 

Happy Monday to you!

Weekend Update :: Fall is Fun part II

I have already used this title once, so consider this post part two! We've had such beautiful weather and fun activities. Here's a roundup from this weekend.

Friday night was pretty chill. We ate chili for dinner then headed down to Commercial Street to walk around. I wanted to visit the grand opening of Red Velvet. Such a neat store! There are quite a few new places down there. I would suggest Big Momma's for a good sandwich, The Pizza House for handmade delicious pizza and Red Velvet for some fun shopping!

Saturday morning I was up early for the last session of my running class. It has been so much fun! A quick stop at the Farmers Market before heading home. That afternoon we ran errands and worked around the house. For dinner, we met R's family at Bambino's. Another local favorite.

Sunday was another beautiful fall day. I went to church while R rode with his teammates. After lunch we headed out on our own bike ride. We rode out east and saw lots of pretty fall foliage. After a few chores at home we met R's parents for dinner and passed out candy to trick or treaters.

Weekend Update :: Fall is Fun

So far this year, we have had such a beautiful fall.  Luckily, we've been able to make the most of the gorgeous weather.

Friday night I met a friend to walk. Afterwards I made a delicious calzone for dinner. They're super easy to make, tasty with different types of topping and loads of marinara sauce and best of all warm ooey gooey cheese. 

Saturday An early morning to met my running class for another 3 mile jog. Then a quick trip to Starbucks for some warmth before heading to the Farmers Market. The rest of the afternoon was filled with chores, laundry and other fun stuff. R spent most the day working at the bike shop. 

That evening we met our friends for a great dinner at Bambino's. Also included lots of ooey gooey cheese. Some cupcakes for dessert with a few rounds of Spades. The girls seriously rule at this game.

Sunday morning we slept in a bit. Relaxed with breakfast, coffee and few odds and ends around the house. After lunch we decided to visit the Grand Opening of the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center.  The weather was perfect for touring the new center and strolling through the gardens. The Japanese Stroll Garden was the highlight of the afternoon. A few fun pictures below.

Weekend Update :: Family, Friends and a Wedding

What a wonderful weekend! Let's get right to it.

Friday night we met R's parents for dinner at Old Chicago. Love that deep dish Chicago style crust!

Saturday morning we were up early. I headed to my running class and knocked out three miles! After a quick shower at home we threw our bags in the car and headed to KC. First stop was the Nelson Atkins Art Museum. My parents met us there and we headed straight out into the sculpture garden for a picnic lunch.

shuttlecock in sculpture garden

We had a great time walking through all of the exhibits. The best one was "Mummy Mysteries Unveiled." I would love to go back again. Our next stop was the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. After this, we drove up north to find our hotel/wedding reception site. Quick tour + happy hour before heading off to the wedding. My brother was the best man (see tall guy with beard).

wedding ceremony

A fun dinner reception followed. We all had a great time eating and catching up with old friends.

Sunday morning we lounged around in our comfy hotel room. Later our group rallied together and we headed to breakfast at First Watch - love this place! After eating a few of us walked around before hitting the road.

ouch, the sun is in my eyes!

That afternoon we worked at home and took a nice afternoon walk. The beautiful fall foliage is really making a show.

beautiful trees down our street

Weekend Update :: Fall is Cozy

It officially feels like Fall now. The temps dropped this weekend and the leaves are starting to change. I supposed that's ok. It does feel awfully cozy this time of year.

Friday night I met a friend for a quick walk at Phelps Grove park. For dinner we baked a homemade calzone with spinach (for me) and olives (for him). I finished the most excellent book before heading to bed. A full review will be posted soon.

Saturday morning I met with my running group to get some miles in. I reached my goal of 2.5 miles for the day. We visited the Farmers Market afterwards. So much great produce right now! Mums, pumpkins and gourds are out too. That afternoon we worked outside in the yard and such. For dinner we met R's family at Arris's pizza.

Sunday morning R left early for a mt bike race. I headed to church then braved the crowds at the grocery store, ugh. After lunch I met a friend for a nice bike ride. The weather was perfect for cruising around.

Later that afternoon I watched "Julie & Julia" while folding laundry. If you haven't seem this film, I would highly recommend doing so. It is adorable and very well done. I was so inspired that I quickly baked up a batch of pumpkin oatmeal cookies. Yum!

Summer is Winding Down

I love summer most of all. It is my favorite season for so many reasons. But fall is coming and that's OK. There are lots of things to love about the autumnal time of year too.

A few highlights
Memorial Day weekend we watched fireworks at Big Cedar Lodge

A big wedding weekend in early June

A fantastic business trip to Washington D.C.

Followed by a bike race weekend in Kansas City

The fourth of July  we partied it up on Bull Shoals lake

Lots of bike riding that month too

In August I got some work done around the house

And enjoyed delicious homegrown tomatoes.

Ended the summer with a few birthday celebrations for my dear hubby!

Weekend Update :: End of August

What a fun weekend! Here are a few photos to summarize.

Friday night we went to the Branson Landing for the Big Smith concert.

Saturday I baked some chocolate banana zucchini bread. Recipe from here.

Sunday I worked at the Metropolitan Bride Wedding Expo. I got to take these flowers home with me!

Weekend Update :: Life is Good

Since it's Tuesday, I'm already thinking about next weekend! Big Smith is playing at the Branson Landing and we are looking forward to that.

A few highlights of last weekend:
- Visited our friends in their new home
- Cleaned out the closet in our laundry room - a huge victory!
- Rode our bikes in the moon-light ride
- Enjoyed the lingering summer weather

Hope your week is off to a good start!

Weekend Update :: A Little Bit of Everything

This weekend was great! We got some organization done at home, bought groceries, had fun with friends, went shopping, visited with family and relaxed at home.

Friday night we ran errands after dinner and grabbed some ice cream (for me) and Icee (for him) before heading home.

Saturday morning I was up early to meet friends for a bike ride down the South Creek trail. We visited the Farmer's Market afterwards. Spent the hot afternoon at home doing chores. Also read and relaxed a bit.  That night we joined friends for a fun cookout. Lots of yummy food and good company!

Sunday morning was gray and dreary. A perfect day to sleep in! After a late breakfast we hopped in the car and headed to the outlet mall in Branson. I found some great deals at the Banana Republic store. We were more than ready for lunch so we headed to the Bearded Clam for some great food! Topped off the weekend with a pizza dinner with R's family.