Love Prevails: A Boston Marathon Proposal

Andrew Ruggiero had a plan to propose to his girlfriend after she crossed the finish line of the Boston Marathon. His plan was elaborate, and even included working at the Gatorade tent at the finish line so he could pop the question in front of friends, family, spectators and the Boston Herald news crew.

He didn’t get a chance to propose at the finish line, but this story does have a happy ending. This year’s Boston Marathon will be remembered by most for the tragic events that occurred. But for this happy couple, this day marks the beginning of the rest of their lives together. Love conquers all.  Read more.

This Love Hate Relationship is Insane!

Have you ever loved something you hated?  Or hated something you loved? I have, and it’s called INSANITY. Throughout the holidays and the usual winter blues, I realized my clothes had become just a tad too tight for comfort. I asked Santa for Insanity and on January 7th embarked on this insane 2 month journey.

You need a little bit of insanity to do great things
~ Henry Rollins

Day 1 is a Fit Test, designed to serve as a base so you can measure your progress every 2 weeks over the next 60 days. You count how many times you can do an exercise in a minute. And there are 8 exercises. Tania nearly tripled my every exercise and I quickly learned how much room I had for improvement.

In the beginning, it was a struggle. The nutrition plan was difficult to stick to and the workouts felt nearly impossible. It was cold and dark and all I really wanted at the end of each day were my pajamas and a glass of wine. Instead, I bought a scale, tape measure and even took that horrid winter bikini picture.

I stuck with it.  After about a week, every day got the slightest bit easier. Before I knew it, I was doing Insanity 6 days a week and actually liking it, loving it even. I gained a sense of motivation that I’ve only experienced while marathon training. Similarly, Insanity is as much of an emotional challenge as it is physical. Most importantly, I had re-prioritized working out. Insanity kept me on track for eating healthy and leaving work on time – 2 things I struggle with.

Control your life through insanity.
~ Cliff Burton

End of Month 1 – I weighed in, took my measurements and was disappointed. Although I knew I felt better (I could actually do push-ups! And had more energy!) I didn’t think I looked any different. Us females know that this is a huge de-motivator. I thought a month was enough time to see a difference and so I did some research. I learned that Month 2 is where most people see a difference. The problem is, it’s nearly impossible to do the Month 2 workouts until you’ve completed Month 1. I powered through my temptation of giving up.

Month 2 – Let’s just say, Month 2 felt like Day 1 all over again. It was an entirely new challenge. Every workout was harder and longer. There were nights that I wanted to skip, but I was committed. I was starting to see results. Now, I am happy to announce it’s been 71 days and I have officially finished the Insanity Workout plan. I will still continue on my journey with Insanity, but will be incorporating running and classes at my gym in between to keep my sanity.

The Results - 

Weight                         Chest                        Waist                         Arm (bicep)
Start: 134.2 lbs        Start: 35″                Start: 29″                 Start: 11  1/4″
End: 126 lbs              End: 32  1/2″         End: 27  1/2″         End: 11″
Loss: 8.2 lbs       Loss: 2  1/2″     Loss: 1  1/2″      Loss: 1/4″

Hips                            Butt                           Thigh
Start: 35  1/2″        Start: 39  1/2″      Start: 22″
End: 33  1/2″          End: 37  1/2″        End: 21  1/2″
Loss: 2″              Loss: 2″            Loss: 1/2″

Overall, I’m extremely happy I stuck with it. Through the ups and downs (no pun intended), I finished a goal of mine and am walking away happier, healthier and with a little bit of muscle. I have grown to love Shaun T. and more importantly, the results. Bikini season prep came early this year!

I’ve already influenced 3 people I know to get started and while I know it’s not for everyone, it’s worth a try!
Interested in other opinions on Insanity? Click here and here. Good luck!

A Special Delivery: Eternal Love

What better way to kick off Valentine’s Day week than with a love story?

This story truly is the ultimate romantic gesture. A tale of love after death from Sue Johnston in Houston, TX. Attention criers, grab a tissue!

@LettersOfNote

You can also find this story on Gawker.com and Hypervocal.com.

“My Sweet husband, John, and I were married for 46 years. Each Valentine’s Day, he’d send me the most beautiful flowers containing a note with five simple words: ‘My love for you grows’ . Four children, 46 bouquets and a lifetime of love were his legacy to me when he passed away two years ago.

On my first Valentine’s Day alone, 10 months after I lost him, I was shocked to receive a gorgeous bouquet addressed to me … from John. Angry and heartbroken, I called the florist to say there had been a mistake. The florist replied, ‘No, ma’am, it’s not a mistake. Before he passed away, your husband prepaid for many years and asked us to guarantee that you’d continue getting bouquets every Valentine’s Day.’ With my heart in my throat, I hung up the phone and read the attached card. It said, ‘My love for you is eternal.’”

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide… for Guys! (Guest Post)

Hi everyone! My name’s Amy and I’m the creator of Cupcakes & Couture, a lifestyle blog featuring posts on style, baking, shopping, DIY projects, interior design and more! Since Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, I wanted to share my gift guide for the guys in your lives. I know how difficult it can be to shop for your boyfriends, fiances and husbands, so hopefully this will make it a bit easier for you come February 14th!

valentine’s day gift guide for guys by amybreckenridge on Polyvore

The North Face ‘Apex Pneumatic’ Jacket – $99. This breathable, waterproof jacket is perfect for guys who love to be active outdoors and look good while doing it.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Stainless Steel Watch – $225. This watch is a perfect combination of sporty and stylish – the rose gold is on trend and unique but the black silicone strap keeps it looking tough and manly.

Boconi ‘Bryant’ Slim Leather Card Wallet – $54. This slim wallet won’t take up much room in his pocket but can still fit his license and all of his credit cards.

Yves Saint Laurent ‘L’Homme’ EDT - $60 for 2oz. Is your guy in need of a new signature scent? I promise he’ll love this sophisticated scent from YSL (and that you’ll love it on him even more!)

NHL 13 for XBox or PS3 – $45. If he’s a gamer and/or a hockey fan, he’ll definitely love the newest NHL game for his console. My boyfriend and I play together all the time and it’s really fun!

Jawbone JAMBOX Wireless Speaker – $200. This little speaker packs a loud punch and comes in 4 fun colors so he can listen to his music anywhere he likes.

Do something fun together. Valentine’s Day isn’t all about spending money on each other…it’s a great time to try out something new together! Get him tickets to see his favorite band, take a cooking class together or go out for a long hike on the next sunny Saturday afternoon.

Bake him something. My boyfriend prefers that I bake him something instead of spending money on him. If your guy has favorite flavors, make sure incorporate them into a special V-Day treat! Looking for ideas? Try out my cookie dough filled cupcakes, banana chocolate chip muffins with Nutella filling or mini Oreo cheesecakes….all of them have been man tested and approved!

A Friday Laugh..

I have received many wedding invitations over the past few years and frequent the Paper Source, so know the possibilities are endless. You don’t have to be planning a wedding to find this video hilarious! Happy Friday everyone:)

Guys, Time to Make Plans!

Valentines Day is right around the corner. My boyfriend asked me if I had a preference on where we went to dinner. Well yes I do. My preference is for you to make the plans, and not ask me for help.

Valentine’s Day is still a girls holiday, right?

That said, when he asks me this question, my answer is always the same.. “let’s try somewhere new!” With so many favorite go-to’s, this is actually a difficult request.

I know a some people think V-Day is overrated, but if you plan on going out, here’s my list of Boston restaurant suggestions!

FANCY & SOPHISTICATED

Mistral – Inspired by the South of France and located in Boston’s South End. I’m not even a fan of french food, but Mistral is the exception!
223 Columbus Avenue | Boston, MA 02116 | 617.867.9300 | French | Menu

Grill 23 - Known for their steak & seafood, but what sets this restaurant apart is their impeccable service and atmosphere!
161 Berkeley Street | Boston, MA 02117 |617.542.2255 | Steak, Seafood | Menu

Mare Oyster Bar - A true standout among the many options the North End has to offer. Upscale, organic and perfect for a special occasion!
135 Richmond Street | Boston, MA 02109 | 617.723.6273 | Seafood | Menu

SEXY & INTIMATE

Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar - An underground cantina with a dark crimson decor makes for a very sexy ambiance – perfect for Valentine’s Day!
271 Dartmouth Street | Boston, MA 02116 | 617.369.5609 | Mexican | Menu

Scampo - The stunning 1st floor restaurant in Beacon Hill’s Liberty Hotel. Grab a drink at Clink beforehand, and catch a fashion show afterwards!
215 Charles Street | Boston, MA 02114 | 617.536.2100 | Italian/Mediterranean | Menu

Carmen - This intimate candle-lit North End restaurant’s atmosphere is perfect for romance, and be a sure hit for any girl on Valentine’s Day!
33 North Square | Boston, MA 02113 | 617.742.6421 | Italian | Menu

COMFORTABLE & CHARMING

Max & Dylan’s - A hip and trendy restaurant in Boston’s Downtown Crossing with a surprisingly sexy flair. The mac & cheese menu is to die for!
15 West Street | Boston, MA 02111 | 617.423.3600 | Comfort Food | Menu

75 Chestnut –  A great neighborhood restaurant with a cheese & cracker tower upon arrival. Even if this isn’t your V-day choice, I highly recommend it for brunch or another special event!
75 Chestnut Street | Boston, MA 02108 | 617.227.2175 | American | Menu

City Table - My local fave and an absolute recommendation! Seasonable (& affordable) organic menu that’s always changing, and always delicious!
65 Exeter Street | Boston, MA 02116 | 617.933.4800 | American| Menu

Let me know what other suggestions you have for Valentine’s Day, or just a fun dinner date! Make your Boston Valentine’s Day Reservation!

After all these recommendations, I do have to admit that it’s sometimes better to have a nice, home-cooked meal in than spend Valentine’s Day out. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE going out to dinner and my boyfriend is probably calling me a hypocrite at this very moment. But if you feel like staying in, this works too:)

The Bachelor is Back!

The Bachelor/Bachelorette season premieres are always my favorite nights of tv. I become way too involved believing these relationships are real despite the fact that their dates take place on exotic beaches accompanied with fireworks, champagne and chocolate covered strawberries and the couples are madly in love after only knowing each other for a few months. Still, I was convinced that Emily and Jef were perfect for each other. I don’t even think Ricki is as devastated as I am. I digress. Let’s talk about what looks like the most dramatic season yet.

Sean is handsome, has a body like a God, is close with his family, loves children, and talks about how he cannot wait to get married. Perfect much? Let’s start with some superlatives:

First impression, and most likely to make it to the finale: AshLee F. 
And she has one of my dream jobs, a personal organizer.

Most Normal: Desiree
And she has my other dream job, bridal stylist.

Best Eyes: Jackie
I think she’s stunning.

Best Legs (and my personal fave): Kacie B.
She was previously on Ben’s season, and is back because she has a crush on Sean. This created major tension in the house, but how can you not love her!

Biggest Hot Mess: Ashley P.
Although she left on a hilarious note, after acting out 50 Shades of Gray.
“I’m sorry Mom.”

Most Surprising Send Home: Paige
She’s cute and seems normal, and you’d think ABC would keep her around.

Fan-Favorite: Sarah
She’s strong and adorable and I’m rooting for her! Sean is a good guy and I hope they hit it off.

Biggest Surprise: Tierra
First time a rose has been given out before the cocktail hour! I did not like  however what I saw of Tierra in the previews. Bitch?!

Most Awkward Introduction: Lindsay
She looks cute and normal, but came out  of the limo wearing a wedding dress. Ok, that’s different and memorable. But then she tried to kiss Sean twice (rejected), and got so drunk my body ached with awkwardness.

Most Unlikely to Make it Through the Next Round: Brooke
My apologies.

Can’t wait to watch this season of The Bachelor with you!