Meet your new at home trainer: a deck of cards (via Splie Fitness)
This isn’t my first time writing (and raving) about Splie Fitness. Although based all the way in South Lake Tahoe, my girl Tara (owner and instructor) still has me sweating to her demands all the way in Texas. Here’s her latest idea, via Instagram.
According to the easy game to get your sweat on all you need is a deck of cards. You can use just your body weight for these exercises, or add weights if you’d prefer. Grab a deck of cards and start flipping them over one at a time.
♠️ = lunges
♦️ = push ups
♥️ = squats
♣️ = plank rows
Whichever number is on the card, you’ll do that many of each exercise. Go through the deck once and then switch the movements to 4 new moves. You should be good after two times through. Be creative the second time through. Exercises you can incorporate in the second round can include: tricep dips, frog jumps, burpees, mountain climbers, ab exercises like bicycles, bridges – the list is endless.
Try this next time you’re at home or at a hotel and a gym and weights aren’t readily available.
What games have you played to help with your fitness routine?
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/photo-1.jpg710640Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2014-08-04 08:50:382020-03-22 16:57:58Hit the Deck
You are exactly what we needed here in Houston. Exactly.
True Food Kitchen, located off Post Oak (Phase II of BLVD Place in the Uptown District at 1700 Post Oak Blvd.), is truly a restaurant (and even a meeting space) designed for everyone catering to a number of diets, including a variety of innovative vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, along with a regular all-around healthy and delicious menu.
Houston marks the 8th location for True Food Kitchen. The menu is based on “honest food that tastes really good,” which is kind of just…perfect.
Best-selling items include the “Inside Out” Quinoa Burger, Panang Curry and Tuscan Kale salad (brunch is also a top favorite of yours truly, including all the delicious drinks – some using organic tequila).
True Food Kitchen serves brunch, lunch and dinner; an assortment of Natural Refreshments such as Kale-Aid (kale, apple, cucumber, celery, lemon, ginger) and a Medicine Man antioxidant blast (sea buckthorn,
True Food Kitchen now open in Houston
pomegranate, cranberry, black tea, soda); and a huge array of wines. Its 4,500-square-foot Houston spot will have both indoor and outdoor dining rooms and bars, with plenty of room for you and your group either inside or outside.
True Food Kitchen opened a location in Dallas back in 2013, which won the Nation’s Restaurant News 2014 Trendsetter award for “captivating customers with food that’s both delicious and nutritious.”
Pro-tip: If it’s just you or you and a friend, grab a seat at the bar – it’s downright amazing to watch the bartenders/juicers in action. They will answer any questions you have and are super chatty. Always a plus at a new spot in town.
I spend entirely too much time in workout clothes. Granted, I do workout every day (even while on vacation), but an hour sweating it out with my trainer doesn’t constitute spending the entire day in spandex and lycra and other sweat resistant clothes.
But I still do it.
Shopping on Zappos.com the other day I ran across the brand Lucy. I’m really not sure why I’d never heard of it before – there is literally a storefront less than two miles from my house.
They had a ton of great stuff that looked good online, but I found this fun chevron printed tank ($55) and thought I’d give it a go. Because chevron always makes sweat look better, right?
I’m pretty selective with my workout gear – it’s got to fit well, compliment my body shape, and it’s most definitely got to be able to hold its own in the gym or on the running trail. Function first, fashion shortly thereafter.
This particular tank (named I Run This) is moisture wicking, quick drying/breathable and ideal for high-energy activities. I’ve said this before, but I tend to run errands after a hard gym session, so a quick drying tank or shorts is almost a necessity for me. I may not smell amazing sitting at Starbucks, but at least I won’t look sweaty or feel well.
Since I am so selective with workout gear, I only branched out with this brand because Zappos.com offers free shipping and free returns, so if it didn’t fit or I didn’t like the look and feel of the tank, I could return it without any hassle.
Also pictured: lululemon speed shorts in black and New Balance Fresh Foam running shoes (also available on Zappos.com).
The Blonde Side in Black Halo and Mattie-Lou in Natalie Deayala on the ESPYs Red Carpet
Once again the ESPYs proved to be hands-down one of the best events – both on an incredibly good-time personal level as well as business with opportunities to interview 100+ athletes in one day, coupled with everything else the ESPYs, ESPN crew, and all of LA has to offer.
Dressing for a red carpet event is something I’ve yet to master and has taken my anxiety to high levels – especially when you’re there to work.
You want to fit in, but not in the sense you’re an athlete up for a prestigious nomination. You’re working it, so you need to be able to move around and act crazy to get your interviews in, and it’s the middle of July in Los Angeles, so you gotta be careful not to show sweat stains or die of heat exhaustion.
After much deliberation, I went with this black dress from Black Halo (from Tootsies here in Houston). You can see me posing on the carpet with my new friend, Mattie-Lou/Cippy Wallace, as we waited for the celebs to arrive.
Side note: my favorite celeb/athlete on the red carpet has to go to Laila Ali. She absolutely looked stunning and that blue dress showed off her well-earned muscles and awesome figure!
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/ESPY.jpg19361936Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2014-07-28 19:27:552014-11-19 11:20:46Black Halo at the ESPYs
The Blonde Side’s newest bikini: L*Space via Zappos.com
As most of you know, I spent last summer in the most amazing place doing the most amazing thing —> I moved to the North Shore of O’ahu and wrote a book!
During those four incredible months on the island, I learned many things about myself and about what’s important in life and so many other life-changing things, like how to properly hitch-hike, how to cut yourself off from all social media, and more. But lucky for you this blog is about bikinis…
I moved to Hawaii sight-unseen and didn’t know a soul. My second day there, I was grabbing lunch at Ted’s Bakery, literally across the street from my place, and two locals sat down at the community table next to me. We started chatting and they asked me to join them to surf some monstrous waves (I watched).
Afterwards we started talking all things Hawaii and Anthony told me one of the easiest ways to spot a tourist was by her bikini. I didn’t really understand the correlation, but he said tourists usually wear more coverage/full bikinis and were more conservative than the local style. It was true – I noticed it immediately and everyday for the next few months.
After a month, I took it upon myself to say I lived there. It was true – it was my new address for an undetermined amount of time and that made me feel the need to celebrate with a new bikini – which is how I was introduced to my now favorite bikini – L*Space. The short twelve-mile stretched where I sequestered myself to didn’t have Targets or Victoria’s Secret – there were only cute and local shops – including the bikini shops.
Where can I shop L*Space on sale?
You can also shop LSpace on sale at Nordstrom Rack for some killer dealers. Grab great deals on LPsace bikinis at Revolve and use code TULIP for 10% off most orders.
Now that I’m back living in Houston (where’s the beach!?), I want more L*Space, but it isn’t an extremely commonly-known brand in these parts. A select few stores carry the brand, and if they do, the sizing is usually sparse (it’s so popular). Ordering bikinis online used to give me anxiety – I never like to pay for shipping and even at 32-years-old, I still manage to get my size wrong EVERY SINGLE TIME. But I learned that you can order L*Space on Zappos.com and instantly I felt like a small piece of me was still in Hawaii – at least when I was at the pool.
There are a ton of style and colors, so take a few minutes to check out their stuff. (Personal sizing note: I wear my regular size on tops and a size larger usually on the bottoms.)
Zappos offers 24-hour shipping and free returns, so I no longer feel the extreme anxiety ordering the wrong size – I usually order a small and medium in every top and bottom and end up returning whichever doesn’t fit. I still feel like L*Space is a little known secret here in Texas, and I kind of like being one of the trendy few in-the-known on these awesome bikinis.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/photo1.jpg664664Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2014-07-28 17:05:462024-06-06 16:32:31L*Space Bikinis On Sale
Pretty sure The Blonde Side’s never been mistaken for “chicken legs”
If you’ve read The Blonde Side or followed me on Instagram for a while, you know I’ve fallen head-over-heels for New Balance running shoes.
I’ve tested out many running shoes during my time as an athlete – I love Nike for many activities and their look and feel, but for function for my particular feet I’ve really become a loyal New Balance fan. The shoes I’ve been running in for the past six months are the New Balance Fresh Foam 980’s. They come in a myriad of colors, and have held up through all my travels, half-marathons, workouts at the gym, and more.
Since I’m a girl and either A) like to change my mind a lot or B) find something and fall in love with it and order a bunch of them so I never run out, Zappos.com makes shopping for running shoes particularly easy (free 24-hr shipping and free returns 365 days/year is just a simple bonus).
My favorite feature on the site is the ability to narrow down your search considerably to save on time, and to help ensure you are ordering pretty much the perfect shoe. My first option of course is to select New Balance, but the option I like most is “pick shoes by shoe weight,” as I’m a big fan of shoes that are extremely lightweight. Heavy shoes seem to slow me down, so this is a non-negotiable when shopping new shoes. The Zappos.com feature allows you to select from four weight options (6-10oz, 11-15oz, 1-5oz, and 16-20oz), which is incredibly helpful since you can’t feel them in person (or you can just order a bunch and return the ones you don’t like as much for free).
Not to mention Zappos.com offers 24-hour delivery and free returns, just in case you order the wrong size or
Zappos.com allows shoppers to choose “shoe weight” while shopping
change your mind on the color. As a creature of habit, I’ve run into the issue many times where a shoe I’ve really loved has worn itself out and I want the exact same shoe – many local stores won’t keep them in stock and 99% of the time, I’ve found that the same shoes (in the same colors) are available on Zappos.com, and since I already know the size, it’s a no-brainer.
Pro tip: Reading the reader reviews/comments on the shoes has also proved helpful many times, so keep that in mind.
New Balance shoes are also American-made and absolute marketing geniuses – huge, huge bonus for this Red, White and Blue blonde girl.
Even The Blonde Side makes a smart move from time-to-time, like buying New Balance running shoes on Zappos.com.
Pack light, thanks to Nike Pro available at Zappos
If you’re going to write about fitness, you kind of have to partake in it – for me that means especially while traveling. It’s kind of like if you’re going to talk the talk, you better walk the walk adage we learned as kids.
Recently I’ve fallen in love with Zappos.com, which helps me walk the walk that much better. It has become one of my go-to performance apparel shopping destinations, and I love the next day shipping (hi, procrastinate much) and returns 365 days a year. Another cool thing I love about Zappos.com and their next day shipping is that just in case I forget to pack certain workout gear, I can have it shipped directly to my hotel and not really miss any go-time.
Although fitness (especially hiking and running in parts of the country I’m experiencing for the first time, which is one of the most freeing things I’ve ever experienced) is a huge part of my travel, I can’t let it take up a ton of space in my luggage. The more I travel, the more I see the benefits of carry-on luggage – allowing for a quicker exit, less chance of losing bags and avoiding baggage fees. So space is limited.
I may be able to forego that extra pair of Hudson Jeans, but skimping on workout apparel isn’t an option. My favorite travel workout outfit is part of the Nike Pro Five-Inch Short ($30) available on Zappos.com. The shorts take up very little space and are great for running as they don’t ride up but are still flattering in case you stop in town to shop or grab a coffee. These shorts are also great because they come in a myriad of colors, which I’m always a sucker for.
On really hot days I pair them with this Nike lightweight sports bra ($30 | shown in picture), which provides just enough coverage and support. The other great part about this Nike line for travel is that you can wear them for multiple days. Since they are so lightweight and feature Dry-FIT technology, you can easily wash/rinse them in your hotel room after a run and let them dry in the bathroom, ready for tomorrow’s workout.
I know everyone wants to be super fashionable while traveling and working out, but sometimes it pays to be realistic. Trust me, it took me years to learn this lesson, just don’t tell my mother. Luckily with this line and all the bright color options, you can be both fashionable and realistic.
*I recommend washing Nike products inside out (as most fitness apparel should) – it keeps the swoosh in perfect form longer, although sometimes a retro look is pretty awesome.
For shoes, I love the New Balance minimalist shoe for travel. I don’t recommend them for 26.2-mile runs (I said that as if I’d actually ran that distance all at once…), but for a hike or easy 3 – 7miler, they are perfect and unfathomably light – again perfect for travel.
Even The Blonde Side makes a smart move from time-to-time, like buying Nike and other athletic products on Zappos.com.
Pro Tip for getting your workout on while traveling: If you’re staying at a hotel, send them a message via social media or ask the concierge about workout facilities. Many times if there isn’t a gym on-site, the hotel offers complimentary guest passes to nearby gyms (NYC is big on this), and you just might get connected with a fitness instructor the hotel works with often. Kimpton Hotels are also known for providing running maps with runs around the city that range from 1 to 10 miles.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/NikeZappos.jpg632640Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2014-07-23 17:19:122014-11-19 11:23:59Nike for Travel on Zappos.com
vitafusion gummy vitamins – I love being an adult!
Nothing has ever made me feel more like a healthy adult and a child all at once. Until I was introduced to vitafusion™ gummy vitamins. Not only are they good for you, but they taste delicious!
I’m not sure when tasty vitamins became a necessity, but I’m sure glad they did. The vitafusion™ gummy vitamins deliver delicious nutrition (and are only about 15 calories each) in a great-tasting gummy, making it easy and enjoyable to take your vitamins.
The vitafusion™ gummy vitamins come in a variety of vitamins, minerals and other dietary supplements to help adults meet their health and nutrition needs. They even come in a pre-natal variety, which is what I take – my doctors have said for many years that pre-natal vitamins are the most fully encompassing vitamin women my age (32) can take.
Be sure to visit gummyvites.com for $1 off.
Quick note – these are not the best vitamins to travel with (unless you put them in your carry-on or leave in the hotel), because they can melt. It’s only happened to me once, but then they start to stick together.Or maybe that’s just because I live in Texas?
Jello Shots – the only time The Blonde Side excels in the kitchen
It’s no secret the kitchen isn’t really my forte, but thankfully JELL-O SHOTS are.
For the 4th of July, I decided to try something new, using the flavored Rita’s from Bud Light (Mango, Raspberry, Strawberry and Lime).
It’s super simple – make JELL-O as stated on package – when it’s time to add “cold water” simply add a cold Rita (whatever flavor you want). I made quite a variety of flavors, but in true blonde fashion, I didn’t label which ones had which flavor JELL-O OR which ones had which flavor Rita’s – so I did have a favorite, I just haven’t a clue which one it was.
These were actually REALLY good, but even with 8% alcohol in the Rita’s, they weren’t very strong (at least not for JELL-O shots). On the next go round I’m going to add some vodka (I’m a big fan of Tito’s) and I’ll let you know how they turn out. If you use the Lime-a-Rita and the lemon-lime JELL-O, you should add tequila instead of vodka.
The simplest way I’ve found to make these without making a huge mess is to place the shooter cups (I bought mine at Spec’s here in Houston) on a large baking sheet and used a large mixing bowl with a spout to pour them evenly and without spillage. And I have a super obese Chihuahua so he helped clean up the mess too.
If you need any additional Jello Shot tips, shoot me a note, I don’t mean to brag, but I’m kind of an expert.
A super cool part about running The Blonde Side, are the invitations to fun and exclusive events and trying things (products, food, beers, etc.) before they are open to the public. Today I got to sample EVERY single one of the new Frozen Custard Waffle Cone Sundaes ($5.50 each) at Petite Sweets.
This new menu includes seven sundaes:
1. Chocolate Covered Pretzel – for those salty and sweet all-in-one lovers.
2. Big Island – if you love pineapple, give this one a go.
3. Lemon Ice Box – a big favorite of many.
4. The Turtle – caramel and chocolate – how can you go wrong?
5. The Funfetti – smashed up sugar cookies IN your waffle sundae!
6. Makers Chocolate Covered Cherries – a rather bold taste, but I’m not much a fan of cherries, unless it’s cherry vodka.
7. Balsamic Strawberry – this one was my favorite. It is typically served with vanilla frozen custard, but in true blonde fashion, I always change things up a bit, so I got chocolate frozen custard. There is something about a chocolate | strawberry combo that is sinfully good – and of course the strawberries (A FRUIT!) makes me feel it’s sort of healthy!
Petite Sweets is located at 2700 W. Alabama near Kirby, in Houston.
Pro tip for dudes – This is a cute after-dinner date spot. Ask the girl “mind if we hit one more spot before I take you home,” and take her to this deliciously adorable shop. Trust. Me.
