Las Vegas: The down low

My trip to Vegas with the fam for Christmas was a lot of fun.  It was great visiting a place that gets so much hype.  I don't think I'll put it on my radar for future vacations, but I am glad I got to experience it.  And the family time and bonding were priceless...that is what truly made the trip!

In general, the food rocked.  Hofbrauhaus, Lindo Michoacan, and the Bacchanal Buffet at Caesar’s Palace all get an A+.  Great food and atmosphere at all three places.  I am not a huge fan of the old fashion dine in casino’s.  We hit up one of those the first night and after that, we sought out places off of the strip, with the exception of the buffet.

I tried to get in a workout everyday, whether by hiking or hitting up the gym at the Time share. I made sure to hit up the hot tub, and get some good relaxation time.  

Here's a few pics from our trip:

Friday Five: Gift giving for the active person in your life...

I wanted to share a few pieces that I love having around for not only run's in general, but especially those runs that take place during the chillier months!  Frankly, these are all great for any outdoor activity!

• A month ago I finally bought two Sparkly Soul head bands.  These head bands are amazing!  I have worn them on long runs, plyometric workouts, and just lounging around.  They hardly move!  By far the best "stay put" headband I have come across!

• I just recently got a shirt from Gap's Athletica very similar to this one.  I LOVE IT!  The sleeves are long and have a slit for your thumb.  I feel like it add a little bit more shield from the cold and the fabric is great for wicking away sweat.  

• And you have to make sure to cover up those ears when out for a run.  I feel like if I keep my ears and hands warm, I can with stand some pretty cold temps but without them, I am toast!  I just purchased this headband and can't wait to try it out!

• These tech gloves from Target make running in the winter great if you use your iPhone while working out.  The texture tips allow you to use your phone while keeping your hands nice and toasty!

• Last but not least, because these things are the shit, I would suggest a pair of compression sleeves.  Compression helps with recovery post run but can also be used while running to add an extra layer of warmth.  I didn't get what all the hype was about prior to purchasing these but after feeling the difference in my running, recovering and resting, I am sold!  Not everyone has the same results but I love them!

Gift Giving...

I generally write about food, working out, my lack of working out, my weight, and occasionally the happenings in my life.  But obviously there are lots of other things that I enjoy, although food and working out are two of my fav!  I have posted about different crafts I have done, and one of my favorite hobbies, wedding planning.  Someday I will get everything organized and add some tabs for organization.  But the point is, this blog is a grab bag, 100%.  So this post will have nothing to do with food or exercising, but rather gift giving!

The holiday season is right around the corner, and while most of my shopping is done, it doesn't have to be stressful for the last minute shopper.  I helped a friend out today with a few ideas and thought I would share!

Movie Gift Basket:

• Movie tickets, popcorn, movies, candy, cozy socks, hot chocolate packets

Manicure Gift Basket:

• Nail Polish, File, Cotton Balls, Nail Polish Remover

Books

Gift Card for a Manicure, Spa Day, Hair Cut or color

Book Gift Basket:

• Book, coffee Mug, assortment of tea and hot cocoa, fuzzy socks, bookmark

For the Chef in your life:

• Baking sheets, silicone baking sheets, cool kitchen gadgets and fun cookbooks (be creative!)
• Colander with pasta and pasta sauce (make it fancy by using organic pasta and organic sauces with fun ingredients)

Homemade Cookies and Treats

Canned Goods

A bottle of wine with a set of wine glasses

If you have family or friends with kids, consider giving them a night off and offer to babysit!  

Good luck!  And get creative!