Workout Wednesday

Here is a quick rundown of my fitness routine these days, I typically run a few miles 2-3 times per week for cardio in addition to strength training. I have been itching for a goal to train for and to keep me motivated this summer. So, this week I have started training for the Marine Corps Half Marathon in September. The major change to my running routine is going to be consistency and getting in higher mileage. This also means lots of early morning runs to beat the heat.

  Here is this weeks training schedule:

Half-Marathon Training: Week 1

Monday: Off

Tuesday: 4 miles

Wednesday: Off

Thursday: 4 miles

Friday: 3 miles

Saturday: Off

Sunday: 6 miles

I typically do my longer runs on Saturday followed by an amazing brunch  but we will be out of town visiting Joe's family Saturday. So I am hoping to squeeze in a quick run before church Sunday. 

In addition to running, I will be going to Pure Barre classes 4-5 times a week. 

It is a great compliment to running. The classes help me focus on my core and upper body which get neglected when I just focus on running. I have been going to Pure Barre for 3 months now and am in love with the results! My thighs and booty are much more toned. Also, my abs are starting to get definition. If you have not tried this type of workout I highly recommend it! If there is not a Pure Barre near you Fitnessista and Tone it Up have great barre inspired videos.

Best Wishes,

Ashley

Five on Friday

Tropical Storm Andrea is currently visiting our wonderful little town. I am praying that everyone stays safe and (relatively) dry. I love living on the coast and have learned that unfortunately with the warm weather and beautiful beaches comes hurricane season. While we are forced to stay indoors for a few days, I am staying dry and dreaming of summer sunshine that is sure to come. I am already planning my bag in my mind. Here is what I would love to bring as part of my five on Friday.

Beach essentials: 

1. An adorable bikini (or two)

 Mara Hoffman

Mikonos Bikini

2. A large beach bag filled with delicious snacks and drinks. 

Scout Bag

Summer Drinks

3. The perfect sun hat and neutral sandals.

Sun Hat

Tory Burch Sandals

4. A monogrammed cover-up for breezy summer nights.

Monogrammed Fishing Shirt

5. A few good reads. 

Summer Reading

Best Wishes,

Ashley

Weekend Review 5/31- 6/2

This weekend we headed up to Topsail Island to visit some friends at their beach house. We spent an relaxing Saturday enjoying the quiet beach watching the waves roll in. There were a few brave souls swimming. But it is not warm enough for me yet!

For dinner Saturday night, we headed to Daddy Mac's a local oceanfront seafood restaurant. 

We split the homemade crab dip for an appetizer which was the perfect blend of creaminess and crab. I had one of their specialty drinks called the Captain Loco. It was a mix of rum and bananas all topped with raspberry puree. It hit the spot after a long day in the sun. For dinner I had a house salad and bowl of lobster bisque. I am normally one to order soup but after trying this seafood based dish I am going to have to do this more often!!  Joe had the crab cakes which were also amazing!

Sunday we woke up early in time to go on a short walk on the beach before heading back home.

 Sundays are always the catch-up day. So we spent most of it tending the garden, running errands and getting ready for another work week! I was able to squeeze in a Pure Barre class and a nice run  before dinner. For dinner, we hung out around the grill cooking local veggies and hamburgers which is the perfect way to end the weekend!

Best Wishes,

Ashley