Archives for March 2019

Workout at Home for Strength Training and Cardio Using a TRX System

Mar 27, 2019

I use workouts for strength training and cardio. Some common equipment is dumbbells and kettlebells. I purchased a TRX system four years ago and it was a great investment.

TRX System

TRX system is easy to use indoors and outdoors. The system is perfect for travel because it folds easily to pack in luggage. Depending on the exercise the straps can easily adjust. The best thing about the system is I use my body weight as the resistance. It is easy to do upper and lower body exercises using the system at all fitness levels. The key to effective results is to keep abs engaged on each exercise.

YouTube and Fitness

There are thousands of free videos on YouTube for every fitness level. My go to trainer on YouTube is @bodyfitbyAmy. My video below is snippet of a 25 minute workout using TRX.

Home Workouts Work

There are no magic remedies to working out, only the results achieved within weeks. In 2017 I started working out at home and I started to see results within two weeks. The first step is to start moving and incorporating strength training. I love compound exercises as multiple body parts are engaged for the exercise. A home gym is feasible with limited equipment. Amazon is a great source for inexpensive equipment. If you have a smartv, phone, tablet, laptop YouTube is filled with thousands of FREE workouts. Next week, I will share what and how I eat.

Streaming Live Tv, Movies, and Apps on Smart Tv Using Roku

Mar 25, 2019

Streaming made easy with Roku. For four years I went without a tv in my bedroom because I did not want to incur additional charges for another cable line and box.
Roku saved me these charges while using my Xfinity wifi with the Xfinity streaming app. I purchased the Roku+ streaming stick to pair with my smart tv. There are Roku TVs with the app installed. The steps were simple with my smart tv.

Pairing Roku with Smart Tv

Install the stick in HDMI USB port of tv.
Select source on tv remote
Follow steps for activation. Initially, my activation instructions were in German. I held down the reset button on the stick so it was restored to English.
Go online on smartphone or laptop to Roku Activate, use code from tv to enter in the field for activation. From this screen, you can add the desired channels. A credit card is held on file for Roku in the event an app with a charge is selected. Select a pin to approve adding apps.
Go through the remainder of instructions for pairing Roku with tv.
Go to the home button on the Roku remote and select the desired channel.
If you have Xfinity wifi, add Xfinity Stream Beta app
For Netflix and Amazon video you just have to sign in to your accounts.
For adding Youtube, link with email for YouTube account from smartphone or laptop. It will require a Roku pin and activation code to add the channel

The Roku remote allows me to search for channels, set channels as favorites, search for a program or movie by name, or by channel number. Pairing the Roku stick with my smart tv saved on a monthly box charge as well as the installation fee for a new cable line. If I decide to remove the cable box in the other room, I can replace it with another Roku streaming stick.

2019 Philadelphia Flower Show – “Flower Power”

Mar 21, 2019

*I received tickets free of charge. All opinions shared are my own.

After growing up in the city, this was my first Philadelphia Flower Show. The floral designs throughout the show representing various countries were beautiful works of art. The FTD World Cup was the top attraction of the flower show from March 1st to 3rd. The 2019 Interflora World Cup Champion was Bart Hassam, Austria. I tried to capture a few of the designs as I walked through taking in everything.

I love flowers for adding a nice decorative touch to any room. They are also good to boost my mood. Aetna offered a both for mindfulness. The idea was to use all of your senses for the exhibit.

In addition to the floral designs, there were exhibits with various competitors for terrariums, succulents, cacti, bonsai, and foliage. In the bonsai exhibit, there was an attendee who provided information on the bonsais.

The Power of the Seasons displayed each season with items that were representative of the senses for each season.

This is a nice event for the entire family. Everything under one roof, exhibits, vendors selling everything from fresh flowers, household accessories, to jewelry. There are also food vendors as well. I am looking forward to next year’s theme.

Copper Mugs Review with Moscow Mule Recipe

Mar 18, 2019

I received the mugs free of charge for review purposes only. All opinions shared are my onw.

Copper Mugs

I received the copper mugs from (CopperMugs) and immediately impressed with the quality of the mugs. The mugs are 100% pure food-grade copper with a nickel lining. Due to the acidic nature of cocktail ingredients, the nickel lining prevents any of these substances from reacting with the cooper and leeching into your beverages. I knew the quality of the mugs as I removed the mugs from the box. The welded on handles makes a sturdy handle with no issues for leaks. I washed the mugs with a drop of dish detergent and warm water; dried thoroughly. The mugs will be a nice addition to serving beverages while entertaining.

Serving Guests

Copper mugs make a striking statement when serving either cocktails or mocktails. I wanted to find another way to use them so I decided to use as a serving mug for chocolate caramel blondie gelato. If you are hosting a dinner party, these mugs will be the center of the tablescape.

Moscow Mule

This was my first time trying a Moscow Mule. I chilled the mug in the freezer before I prepared the cocktail. Also, I like to store my vodka in the freezer. After a bit of research, I found this brand of ginger beer at Target.

The recipe includes the following:
1 1/2 ounce premium vodka
1/2 ounce of fresh lime juice
3/4 cup ginger beer
lime wedge for garnish

This cocktail is great for serving with light snacks before dinner. The cocktail pairs well with grapes, cheese, and crackers.

Dessert in Cooper Mug

I think every dinner should end with a dessert and chocolate is one of my favorite ingredients. The copper mugs make any dessert look more delicious and appetizing. I decided to use the mugs for serving chocolate caramel blondie gelato, chocolate syrup, and pirouette wafers.

Product Review of AthleisureWear for My Fitness Workout Regimen

Mar 13, 2019

*I received this outfit free of charge for review purposes only. All opinions shared are my own.
*This blog post contains affiliate links at no additional cost to you. If you click and purchase I will earn a commission.

Athleisurewear

Product Review of Athleisure Wear for My Fitness Workout Regimen

Athleisurewear is my favorite for working out as well as running errands on the weekend. My fitness routine starts with wearing the right athleisure wear to get me through all of my favorite full body workouts. One of my top brands is Fabletics, so when BrandCycle gave me an opportunity to review a Fabletics outfit, I was super excited. I started wearing Fabletics over a year ago after signing up for their VIP membership. Every month, I have $49.95 debited and added to my Fabletics account. Next, I can select an outfit. The outfits offered are at great price points with different styles offered every month. If you are not interested in shopping or don’t want to be charged that month, there is the option to “skip the month” as long as you do so between the 1st and 5th of the month.

Leggings and Sports Bra

I ordered the High-Waisted Mesh Powerhold Legging and the Maeve Reversible Sports Bra. As I am getting further along on my fitness journey, I prefer high waisted leggings. I determine a perfect fit by how much the fabric stretches, compresses and fits in all the right places. These leggings offer a moisture-wicking compression fabric, are chafe-free and SPF 50+, have a waistband pocket for keys, and a high waist that helps to me look slim in all the right places. The reversible sports bra offers the same moisture-wicking fabric, the racerback style offers medium support, and I love the reversible styling if I want to change up my outfit.

Workout in Outfit

The best way to test out the fit of athleisure wear is a workout. Today is a workout day with my resistance band. YouTube is my go-to place for all of my home workouts and today is a Resistance Band Workout.

The outfit is a great color combination that coordinates with any footwear. The fabric stretches perfectly and is lightweight enough to wear throughout every season. It is also flattering in all the right places. My abs are still a work in progress which makes the high waist perfect for this area. The compression fabric of the leggings is very comfortable and creates a perfect fit. I ordered the size S, regular length for my 5’4.5″ frame. A perfect sports bra is one that fits completely snug in the front and back. The size small is a good fit for me with a 32 band and a larger cup size. I would suggest the sports bra for a low to medium impact workout. After my planks with toe taps and bicycle exercises, I found the front band rolled under, otherwise, it stayed in place. The outfit is nice enough to wear for workouts as well as running errands on the weekends.

National Pancake Day : Buttermilk Pancake Recipe

Mar 12, 2019

This year National Pancake Day is March 12. I almost missed sharing my favorite buttermilk pancake recipe. Every day should start with breakfast and these are hands down the best pancakes. It will make you stop using pancake mix. I found this recipe on AllRecipes. You can adjust the recipe depending on my number of servings you want to make.

Ingredients

5 eggs
1 1/2 cups milk
6 tablespoons butter, melted
5 cups buttermilk
5 cups all-purpose flour

5 teaspoons baking powder
5 teaspoons baking soda
1 pinch salt (optional)
5 tablespoons sugar

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, butter, and buttermilk. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar; stir into the wet ingredients just until blended. Adjust the thickness of the batter to your liking by adding more flour or buttermilk if necessary.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and coat with cooking spray. Pour 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet, and cook until bubbles appear on the surface. Flip with a spatula, and cook until browned on the other side. Continue with remaining batter.

The rest of the recipe can be found here Truck Stop Buttermilk Pancakes

I am convinced buttermilk makes everything extra good. If you are looking for a new recipe for weekend breakfast, this will be a treat for the whole family. Don’t forget the maple syrup.

My Paris Weekend in 2011 and Planning for New Travel Memories

Mar 7, 2019

My weekend in Paris was far too short. I would love to see more of Europe…Amalfi, Italy is calling me…..

My First Transatlantic Flight

In September 2011, I took my first international flight. My company sent me to France for a meeting in Annecy, France(southern France). I had no idea what to expect on a 6 hour flight. My first thoughts: what will I do for all those hours? besides sleep. Typically, I can’t sleep on a plane but I was thinking based on the distance I would have to rest a little. As an amateur international traveler, I purchased a blanket and travel pillow(not needed). US Airways provided a travel pillow and blanket. I was lucky enough to sit with a lady from the MidWest who was traveling with a girlfriend(sitting in first class) on a girls trip throughout the French countryside. It was an evening flight so the airline served dinner and there were movies, tv series and other forms of entertainment during the flight. My seat mate and I covered everything from marriage, divorce, kids, grandkids, careers and travel. It was her first trip to France so she was pretty excited as well.

Hello Paris

When I arrived in Paris, it was early morning so we had a delicious pastry. I have to admit there was a lot of anxiety with traveling such a long distance but a wonderful opportunity to discover another culture. In order to experience two cities in France, I flew into Paris and take a train (4-hour train ride) to Annecy. I figured on my return trip I would be able to spend two nights in Paris which was a great idea.

US Traveler in French Train Station

When I arrived at the train station it was overwhelming with all the people and the languages in the background. Unfortunately, I wasted time looking for a terminal, which we call a kiosk to print my tickets so I missed the early train. My tickets were prepaid and waiting for pick-up. I had to wait a few hours for the next train and hoped my taxi at the Annecy station would still be able to pick me up.

Arriving in Annecy

Annecy, at last, is how I felt, next task was to find someone at the train station who spoke English so I was able to call the taxi driver since I arrived late. Whew, there was someone after a French passenger helped me find a railway employee who was able to call my driver.

My Annecy Hotel and Jet Lag

The driver arrived with my company sign and I identified myself. Wow, was I in shock to learn that a French taxi is an S class Mercedes(my Carrie Bradshaw moment). I finally exhaled on my way over to my hotel, which was the Palace de Menthon. When I looked at the pictures online I was in awe with anticipation. The ride to the hotel gave me a beautiful view of Lake Annecy which was the most beautiful body of water I ever witnessed. The drive up to the entrance of the hotel was like a scene from a movie.

Palace de Menthon

The hotel was like something in a travel magazine. I proceeded to take everything in with my Ipad. The only thing I wanted to do was crash, however, I was advised to stay up to beat the jetlag. Dinner was scheduled in town so when I arrived it was time to get ready for dinner. One thing to note if traveling to Annecyis its close proximity to the Swiss border. Most of my colleagues flew into Geneva but I opted to fly into Paris for a weekend on my return to the states. The four hour train between Paris and Annecy was well worth the scenery.

Annecy and Paris

This trip was long before I knew how to capture every moment. I missed so many meals and they were divine. This was the first time I tried foie gras and duck. Some of mpicturesos of my Paris weekend are captured below. I have to dig for my pictures of Annecy. The town was so quaint and filled with such character. From the cobblestone streets, architecture, and the view of Swiss Alps from my hotel was breathtaking. I loved the experience and am looking forward to more European travel with all of my equipment to capture each moment.

A Weekend in Paris

It was too short. There were so many things I missed such as The Cathedral of Notre Dame and the Louvre. The weather was beautiful for walking the streets of Paris. A lot to plan for my next trip.

Au revoir Paris until we meet again🇫🇷

Spring Dessert- No Bake Oreo Cheesecake with this Easy Recipe

Mar 6, 2019

Just in time for National Oreo Cookie Day! Are you looking for a yummy spring dessert? Well, look no further because this requires no oven and only five ingredients. It is the Oreo No Bake Cheesecake. It is kid approved in my home and literally vanishes within hours! It’s so easy you may have your kids make it by themselves. If you have a potluck or July 4th bbq it is a perfect dessert. How can you go wrong with a dessert that has cream cheese and Oreos. I real time saver was purchasing the Oreo pie crust vs. making the pie crust. This is the recipe shared with me. Enjoy my pictures. Happy Making!!!!!

If you have a potluck or bbq it is a perfect dessert. How can you go wrong with cream cheese and Oreos? A real time saver was purchasing the Oreo pie crust vs. making the pie crust. Below is the recipe shared by one of my friends. Click link below to see full recipe. Enjoy my pictures. Happy Making!!!!!

Spring Dessert: No Bake Oreo Cheesecake

- 1 Oreo Crust (or store bought)

- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

- 1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

You can find the remaining recipe from link below.

recipe credit

Investing in Stocks with Your Children to Build a Portfolio using Stockpile

Mar 4, 2019

*this post contains an affiliate link which means I receive commission if you click and purchase *

Investing In Stocks

Investing with kids is a valuable life lesson. As a middle schooler, I remember learning about the stock market and using the newspaper to check the gains and losses of specific stocks. I love the idea of teaching my ten-year-old and sixteen-year-old how to invest in stocks. The idea of investing in stock sounds overwhelming and some think it requires a significant amount of money to get started

Building wealth for the future means saving money to invest. Where do you start with teaching kids about investing? The best example is teaching kids the difference with saving money at home versus investing the same amount of money with a return. The first lesson is to show what happens when kids save their allowance and gifts in a box versus investing in stock. It is also important for kids to understand how the stock market goes up and down. If they return in 5 years, the same amount is in the box. Now if they take the same amount of money and invest in stocks with a return* over time they will see the growth of the investment. (*profit from investment) If they save $500 dollars in a box and come back in 5 years later it is the same $500. If the same $500 is invested in stock, over 5 years with a 5% return now they have $525.00.

How to Get Started Investing with Stockpile

Open up a stock account also known as a brokerage account
There is no minimum amount to invest and you can purchase fractional shares of stock. For example, if one share of Apple stock is $100, you can buy $50 of Apple which is a half of a share
Stockpile does not charge a monthly fee and the trading commission is $.99 cents a trade. If you purchase a $50 share of Starbucks, it will cost $50.99 for the trade
Stockpile will allow your child(ren) their own log in to check their investments and purchase stock trades
Start early, invest regularly and diversify
Develop a strategy for trading – Buy and Hold means choosing a company that you believe in. Invest and wait out the ups and downs of the return. Buy on the Dips- track a company and buy when the stock dips. Lastly, you can buy a stock that is underrated or undervalued and hold onto them until the value returns.
No strategy is foolproof
Pick companies that you know, research the company online

Investing with Stockpile

Have family and friends help you with investing
Stockpile offers gift cards. Family and friends can buy an egift, by picking a stock and dollar amount, send to recipient’s email address and pay with a debit or credit card. When the egift is redeemed the stock goes into your Stockpile account.
Physical gift cards are available at Kmart, OfficeMax, Wegmans, Giant Eagle and other retailers or online.
Stockpile has a gift registry called “wishlist”. You can choose your favorite stocks and share them with your friends and family. They can purchase your favorite stocks for birthdays and special occasions.

A Side Hustle Idea with Uber and Uber Eats to Earn Extra Cash

Mar 1, 2019

*This post contains an affiliate link. If you click, apply and are approved, I may receive
compensation*

Are you looking for a side hustle?

Uber

Side hustles are awesome – they can help you generate extra money to save, invest and pay off your debt. As a parent, finding the right side hustle that works with your family’s routine is key. That’s where Uber comes in. Driving with Uber is flexible and a great opportunity for parents to earn extra money on their schedule.

If you are a licensed driver and enjoy interacting with the public, consider driving with Uber!

Uber Eats

Uber Eats is an app that enables users to order and have food delivered from their favorite restaurants. It is especially great for parents when they have a busy week. Have you used Uber Eats? nnDo you enjoy working with the public? Try delivering food with Uber Eats. You’ll bring the local food that people love right to their door. Uber Eats Delivery Partners can earn extra money while setting their own schedules. Do you have a driver’s license and insured
vehicle? A bike? or a scooter? With Uber Eats, you can choose your wheels. Depending on your city, Uber Eats Delivery Partners have the freedom to deliver by car, bike, or scooter. Earn extra money, create your schedule. If this sounds like a great fit, check out the link below and deliver with Uber Eats!