I can’t believe that we’re approaching summer’s last hurrah… Labor Day weekend is only a week away and most kids have already gone back to school. Sophie and I have been enjoying some outdoor play time together and the weather has been more agreeable than not in Seattle, which feels like such a departure from prior years.
In recent summers, the season has brought weeks of extreme heat and smoky air where it just isn’t enjoyable (or frankly, safe) to spend time outside, but this year feels like a swing back into a more “normal” climate and summer experience in the PNW and I’m so grateful for the reprieve.
Today I’m sharing five things that have piqued my interest or things that have been on my mind / going on in my life recently!
BACK YARD FUN
If you missed it on social media, last month I shared that we helped our 15 year old pup Herbert pass away. It was really tough on us and we’re still adjusting to our new normal, but one “positive” thing that has come out of it is that we can now use our little back yard space for something other than a doggie bathroom.
I did a few applications of an enzyme spray to help beak down any remaining remnants of urine and fecal matter before we started spending time in the space (and after spending a few days out there I would say that it probably needs a couple more sessions), but it works for now!
I lay out this blanket and bring out some of her toys, as well as a water cup and a snack and we spend hours out playing in the fresh air! It’s a great size, easy to wipe down and fold up.
If the weather is especially warm, I unfold this little pool in the morning and fill it with water from our hose so that it has some time to warm up a bit because otherwise it’s absolutely freezing. The pool is so easy to use and to store — it’s been a worthwhile purchase so far and I have no complaints! Sophie adores splashing around in it and the XXL is large enough for me to get in with her and we still have some room.
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MARGARITA RIM SALT
I don’t typically order my margaritas with a salted rim… it’s just not my preference, but wow — once I tried Red Clay Spicy Margarita Salt my tune has definitely changed regarding my at-home margs! They simply kick my margaritas up a notch. I don’t enjoy SUPER spicy things, but this gives my classic margarita just a little something extra that I adore and it makes it seem more elevated in a way that feels like a creation by a seasoned bartender. haha I don’t want to oversell it, but man, I’m just crazy about it! It would be so good sprinkled on fresh fruit too (like the way you use Tajin on watermelon or pineapple).
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Home Workouts
You’ve heard how much I love our Peloton Bike, but I don’t think I’ve shared how much I appreciate the other exercise classes that Peloton offers in their app’s library. Recently (like, since the beginning of August), I’ve been actively trying to get in better shape now that my lifestyle has changed and I’m no longer getting “natural workouts” as part of my day (I used to walk miles to / from work, get steps while accomplishing tasks at my job, and walk our pup around Seattle after work).
A few weeks ago, my bestie and I decided to try to commit to adding more regular activity throughout our weeks and to hold each other accountable (thanks for being my buddy in this journey, Jaym!). We’re both following our own fitness plans, but still checking in daily and trying to stick to a similar schedule when possible (flexible because, life). Personally, I have a day that I dedicate to arms, a day to legs, a day to my core, a day of cardio, and a day of stretching / toning (like Barre or Pilates).
What’s awesome is I didn’t even have to purchase a new subscription to another workout program… everything I need is already available to me in the Peloton app. I can filter my search as much or as little as I want — by length of time, focus areas, instructor preference, etc. and I love that there are pre-set “programs” and “collections” where the classes you take are already arranged for you; you just have to make the time to take them!
I have LOVED “Arms with Tunde” and “Crush Your Core with Emma“. For Leg Day and Stretching / Toning Day I just filter my search and create a “stack” of classes to follow along with and on my Cardio Day I take a ride on the Bike. It’s been working for me and I’ve enjoyed (as much as one can “enjoy” exercise) all of the classes I’ve taken so far. If I ever don’t feel like taking a Peloton ride I’d love to try one of the Dance Cardio Collection classes for my Cardio Day! I bet they’d be so fun and a great way to mix things up!
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BRINGING AUTUMN INDOORS
I’m so excited for autumn to arrive; I absolutely can’t wait. However, summer is still very much here and while I can’t control the weather, I am already starting to prepare for our home decor switchover to autumn in just a couple of months (hopefully sooner!). I have been looking for branches of multi-colored faux autumn leaves for the past few years and this year I finally pulled the trigger on some and I absolutely adore the way they look! I personally love the multi-colored leaves for our space, but I also really appreciate a more monochromatic look so I included a few of those options in the widget below just in case you’re also anticipating fall’s arrival and want to be prepared! haha
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PARENTHOOD REMINDER
I loved this post that Liz shared about a month ago (of the Hello Adams Family blog). I find that even though it’s a short one, I keep returning to it to read it because even though she and I are in different stages of life it still resonates with me. And sometimes I need to feel like I’m not alone in motherhood and to hear the little reminder at the end. 😉 If you’re a parent I encourage you to give it a quick read!
If you’re looking for me this weekend you can find me dancing to the new Britney x Elton John song.
I hope that you are making the most of our last few weeks of summer weather before the seasonal shift!
Sending hugs —
xx, Natalie
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