THE NEW & THE NEXT

WHO MISSED ME?

It's certainly been a minute and quite a lot of change has happened since we last "spoke." Let me bring you up to speed, SparkNotes version.

    

    

As we're aware, I moved to NYC as a fresh 22 year old. I'll never forget my first day in the city. Attempting small talk with the taxi driver and rolling up to my sublet apartment. I was excited, nervous, and wildly overwhelmed. This was also the moment I realized small talk wasn't necessarily going to be a thing here. Flash forward two years and I can honestly say I made that town my own. From meeting amazing humans, attending flashy events, and dancing those semi-wild, 5am nights away (with the best people), to having unique experiences I wouldn't have had elsewhere - it's been a ride. On my final Uber out, every building and every corner seemed to hold a special memory in my heart. Woo-wee, my time in that city was nothing less than unforgettable and full of growth.

    

   

Now, I'm a fresh 24 year old. Feeling less fresh than 22 and more Grandma Carol than ever.... gotta love a good weekend of wine and sleep, am I right? Being an adventurous soul and constantly excited for the new and the next, I've recently rolled up to my latest adventure: Charleston, SC. Back to those Southern roots I go! Unlike that first taxi ride into NYC, small talk is all the rage in this town... and I absolutely adore it. Not to mention, my new closet could probably fit my entire NYC studio in it. Probably. Although I've only been here a few weeks, I've managed to nail down my go-to coff spot, memorized driving directions to the nearest cycle studio and beach (less than 10 minutes away, people!!), and I continue to meet the sweetest people at every turn. This move has been the easiest transition to date and, honestly, it already feels like home -- only a version of home though, Mom.

XO

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I was scrolling through random health vlogs on YouTube the other day (I know, I'm fun), and got to thinking of this sweet, fit and fab-u-lous blog that I began quite a while ago. I started reading my posts from a few years back and couldn't help but smile. And giggle at what a little nerd I am. So, after spending hours trying to get logged back in, I figure I was due for an update.

On that note, hope you enjoyed this. And I look forward to enlightening y'all with another post sooner - or, potentially, two years later, like this one. 

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Winter in the city

Ahh, Christmas time in the city. Does it get any better than this?

It's my very first winter in the Big Apple and, so far, it's off to a freezing start. What used to be those "ridiculous, long puffer jackets" that I'd refuse to buy, have quickly turned into my second half. A beautiful invention. With temps dipping into the 20s and quite a strong wind chill, this Virginia girl is constantly chilled (and bundled). You know what frightens me the most? When making small talk with my local deli/coffee man, he continues to say "oh, this is nothing." Great. Looks like I'll be investing in a mobile heater this season. 

Aside from the chill, NYC has been a complete dream. I feel like I'm living in a real-life snow globe. During this time of year, the city completely transforms into a winter wonderland. There are Christmas trees being sold on every block, decorative storefronts, ice skating rinks and festive villages — it's all so exciting. The other day, I even heard carolers passing by. Who would've thought New Yorkers could be so cheerful? I'll take it! Since there's so much to do/see in the city at this time of the year, I figured I'd share a few of my faves (so far). With a couple weeks left until Christmas, and New Years around the corner, I'm sure I'll run into plenty more activities. For now, this will have to do. 

1. SantaCon. I'd always heard about NYC SantaCon and it's always been on the top of my list. What is SantaCon? Basically, the city turns into a population of Santa Claus wannabes. From full-fledged Santa suites, to festive sweaters and accessories, you're constantly surrounded by holiday cheer. Although this year's SantaCon has come and gone, feel free to still throw on a hat or antlers. Nobody seems to judge here. 

2. Rockefeller Tree. Even if it tends to be extremely crowded, how could it not make it on my list? The Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is remarkable. It's huge and decorated perfectly. While you're there, look toward Saks for a surprise show on the building. I promise, you're never too old for this light show!

3. Rolf's. Once you've checked out the tree, head on over to Rolf's for some real holiday cheer. Pictures won't do this gem justice, you'll just have to see it yourself. Decked in endless hanging ornaments and lights, your face will light up as soon as you walk through those cozy doors. If you're a super Christmas elf, its beauty may even bring a tear to your eye (cough, mom, cough).

4. Christmas Villages. One of my favorite parts of the city right now are the villages that pop-up everywhere. Two good ones: Bryant Park and Union Square. Both are filled with gift-able crafts and yummy noms. If you're at the Bryan Park village, be sure to hit up the fried pickle booth for a pickle stickle. And the ice skating rink. But mostly the fried pickles.

5. Hockey. Never have I ever been to an ice hockey game until this month. Now, I can say I've been to two — Go Rangers! If you get a chance to make it to a game, do. They're a blast to watch (near or far from the ice) and the fans are amazing. 

6. Macy's. Can't forget about Macy's! Each year, they always have the most amazing and festive windows that tell a story. If you can brave the crowd to see the "Believe" sign, check out the storefront and do some mean shopping, be sure to add Macy's to your NYC trip list. 

7. Any coffee or diner. I love spending my wintry weekend mornings tucked away in a coffee shop - I try to test out a new spot each week. With that being said, I can honestly say that they're all great. Type in "coffee shop" on your iPhone Maps and head that way. Though I have yet to give it a go, try out Ralph's (above Ralph Lauren). It's known for it's cozy and totally Instagram-able atmosphere. After, take a stroll through the park — I still can't wait to see it all beautified in a blanket of snow!

It's a quick list for sure, but it's a solid one. According to my deli man, the season hasn't even really started. That said, I'm looking forward to the adventures to come (even if that means freezing-er temps). There's always something to get into in this city and I know the wintry fun has just begun! 

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Life + Adulting

I’ve learned more in 4 weeks in NYC than I learned in 4 years at college.

It’s true — here's a quick recap. Maybe you knew or maybe you didn't, but after graduation I packed my bags and headed straight to the Big Apple. Quite a change of scenery for this Virginia girl. Why NYC? I was en route for a summer internship with my all-time favorite health and fitness magazine, Women’s Health Magazine. My visit was originally scheduled to last for a few months, but within a few weeks of interning, that timeline quickly changed (eek!). Now, I’m a full-time, working woman – Women’s Health‘s newest employee!

Quickly after accepting the position, the search began... that is, the apartment search. For this, I had to call in back-up: my mom. After sending multiple email inquiries to agents on Street Easy and learning that apartments go off the market quicker than they go on, I knew I couldn't do this one alone. As always, mom pulled through. Within her first 24 hours in the city, she nailed down an adorable studio apartment — can you say "exposed brick?" The next step: innovatively furnishing the cute, little place. Stay tuned.

You could say these past few weeks have been a whirlwind. They truly have been. A wonderful whirlwind though, filled with extreme self-growth — exploring a huge city with new customs, learning the ropes of my first job and signing for my very own apartment — I've never felt more independent in my life. I l-o-v-e it. Some days are certainly more stressful than others, but all in all, I'm extremely happy and thankful to be at this moment in my life.

Which brings me to today's topic: adulting

(well, what I've quickly realized... definitely not a pro at this adult thing)

1. Where did my money go? A question I've asked myself quite frequently the past few weeks. Turns out, those iced coffees, lunchtime salads, fun with friends and, oh, rent adds up. The New York prices don't exactly help either. Once I caught onto this, I quickly adjusted. Whether it's packing lunches for break or utilizing the office coffee machine, saving some extra dollars here and there can be much easier than you may think (even in NYC). 

2. Free as a bird. It's true, my level of independence has sky-rocketed. While I always felt independent in college, it's certainly intensified. Living on your own, in a whole new area, really forces you to adjust and grow — increasing both awareness and decision-making. You're on your own schedule now, picking and choosing how you want to make each day.

3. Time is key. Time is extra important to me nowadays. With the majority of the day spent at work, the hours outside should be for you! Do things on the weekends that you enjoy. Don't waste you-time by scheduling unwanted plans.

4. Patience. Remember that feeling, way back at the beginning of college? Your first final exam, first office hours visit, first lab? Remember how the seniors seemed to have it all together, while you were doing your best to catch up? That's the beginning of adulting in a nutshell. I've been told, from a wise source or two, that soon we'll feel like the seniors again. Or at least juniors. 

5. If you walk to work, wear good shoes and pack deodorant. That's all. 

6. Brand names aren't all that and a bag of chips. It's easy to get swept away in the brand name game. From clothes to gyms — when everybody is raving, take a step back. Know that there's always plenty of other great options that usually cost a fraction of the price. Do some research before diving straight toward the talk.  

7. Have confidence. In yourself and in your capabilities. TWENTY-SOMETHINGS FOR THE WIN! Still feeling down or frustrated? Call a loved one who can give a mean pep talk (you know who you are).

8. Exercise. Likely, you've never completed a run or workout session feeling upset. For me, exercising is a must. Now more than ever. It boosts my mood, self-confidence and really helps to put things in perspective. Sure, it may not be enjoyable sometimes, but it's important. So, get out there and get your 30 minutes — you won't regret it.   

     9. Stay connected. Sometimes, during a bunch of crazy changes, you need that sense of familiarity. You need your home. Text, call, FaceTime, Facebook... stay in-touch with your squad frequently. Heck, even have them come visit. It's fun to hear about each other's latest life adventures. XO

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5 Things I’ve learned since moving to New York City

Coming to you LIVE from a semi-comfy lot of grass in Central Park.

It’s been a little over one week since I packed up my clothes and fled to the Big Apple for summer (hopefully longer). And it took me a little over 12 hours to absolutely fall in love with this city. Since stepping out of the train station and calling a bright yellow cab to take me to “the Upper East Side, please,” tummy butterflies and jitters were no longer a thing. I’m where I need to be at this moment. I’m a city girl now.

So far, my time in the concrete jungle of dreams has been nothing less than exciting. Each day consists of a new adventure. Heck, even taking my laundry out to get washed is crazy for this Virginia girl. If you’re trying to picture me waddling with my bag of clothes down the street, I assure you it’s as funny as you’re imagining. Who would’ve thought that was a thing? Which brings me to today’s quick topic:

5 Things I’ve learned since moving to NYC

1. Grocery trips. Similar to getting your clothes cleaned, grocery trips are a hoot. Repeat after me: 

you don’t have a car. Walking is all the rage in this town (another reason why I love it — fit & fab, amirite?). In other words, you’ll trudge back home with multiple bags. This thought didn’t occur to me on my first round of shopping. Luckily, my tiny apartment is located near about three grocery stores and I’m blessed with extremely long arms. Challenge accepted.

2. Running. NYC has a great running community. On my second morning here, I set out to find a 

trail in the park. I had heard (well, found on Pinterest) that there was a loop run around a reservoir and was on the prowl. The route was perfect. New York beautifully towered over me the entire run. Annnd here comes the running dweeb in me: I was beaming the entire run. Sometimes, I even had chills. Once I learn more runs in the area, I’ll be sure to throw a post together for my fellow exercise enthusiasts looking to travel to NYC.

      

3. New Yorkers. They’re actually some of the best people. Everyone I’ve met thus far has been 

so so helpful and sweet to me. Sure, there’s a few birds that get flipped at cabs or an occasional sassy passerby, but I actually love these no-nonsense personalities. It’s entertaining, nonetheless. New Yorkers rock.   

4. Endless options. Endless is an understatement, especially when it comes to places to eat. During 

the commute to my internship, I try to take note of some cute restaurants or cafes I pass. I end up forgetting them by the next block. There’s just so much! We’re not in Chesterfield anymore boys and girls. Hoping to establish some favorite go-to spots here soon. Right now, it’s whatever I happen to stumble upon. Stay tuned.

5. Never bored. This is the best part about NYC. Whether you’re out for a run, trying a new bar, grabbing coffee and laying out in the park, shopping or even just people watching, you’re truly never bored. If you want to do something, you can in the city that never sleeps. That sounded like an advertisement. There’s a variety of parks and sections in the city (Little Italy, SoHo, Chelsea, etc.), each offering unique vibes and fun activities you never would’ve thought existed. There’s just so dang much to explore!

    

New York, you’ve amazed me already — you might even have my heart. Excited to see what’s in-store and share with y’all my experiences! Now, time to find dinner…

Follow me on Instagram or Snapchat (@carofineb) to watch the adventures first hand.

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5 Active trails in D.C.

Wow, it's already Wednesday. 

I hope everyone's Hump Day has been splendid... 

Stay strong, it's almost Friday!

Mid-Week Tip: There are multiple ways to keep your "A" game alive and power through to the weekend. Here's just a few:

• Drink water: Dehydration leaves you feeling drained. By incorporating multiple cups of water into your day, you'll be refreshed and sure to shake off any fatigue 
• Let the sun light in: Take a breather and head outside for a sun-filled walk. A few minutes of sunshine enhances mood, memory and the ability to absorb information.
• Pack a mid-day, healthy munchie: Everyone needs a little pick-me-up during the day. Grab a handful of almonds, veggies and hummus or non-fat yogurt with fruit to keep your energy UP and tummy satisfied.

Making wonderful memories!

During this past week/weekend, I've spent a ton of time exploring D.C. with my own personal tour guide -- she certainly knows all of the hot spots in town! Since we're both huge fans of keeping active and being outdoors, you can bet we've spent some mean time on the trails already. 

If you're like me, the word "trails" and "D.C." may sound a little, well, opposite. BUT, it's 100 percent true. There are so many great walking/running/biking/hiking trails hidden throughout the city. Each trail has one heck of a view too! If you get the change to spend some time in the city and love to run wherever you are (like me), give some of these active spots a try:

• Capital Crescent Trail: The Capital Crescent Trail totals to be just about 11 miles long. It starts in Georgetown, Washington, D.C. and travels all the way to Silver Springs, MD. The beginning of the trail runs next to the Potomac River, allowing you to fully distract your mind from running and watch beautiful boats cruise by. 

• Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Trail: This trail runs by the Potomac River, which was used for transporting coal, lumber and other agriculture products down the waterway (to the market) in old America. The trail totals to 184.5 miles long -- simply perfect for marathon training.

• Great Falls Park: Great Falls Park is home to multiple hiking trails filled with rocks, water and a many trees (click the link to read about all of them). Each park varies in milage, but the one recommended by my personal tour guide as, Billy Goat Trail, is a 7.8 mile circuit. If she says the trail is "so awesome," then it totally is.

• Mount Vernon Trail: Totaling to 18 miles, the Mount Vernon Trail stretches from George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate to Theodore Roosevelt Island. It includes views of the D.C. skyline, Potomac River and the Arlington National Cemetery. I'm hoping to hike the entire trail before my time in D.C. is up.

• The National Mall Trail: If you follow this trail, you're certain to have a great run. From start to finish, the trail is 6.1 miles of beautiful monuments and sights. It's a definite "must." Tip: Pick a time outside of the peak tourist hours; if not, you'll be swerving in and out of crowds for 6.1 miles. 

For more details about the trails mentioned (maps, directions, etc.), click on the name of the trail above. Remember, feel free to tailor the run/walk/bike to fit you... cut it short or double it, the choice is yours! 

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Favorite {healthy} foods abroad

Hello, everyone!

We've been home from our amazing trip abroad for a little less than a week now and I've finally re-adjusted to the time difference. I can honestly say, I've been bitten by the travel bug. After a good night of sleep and more than a couple loads of laundry (yay for clean clothes!), I'm ready to catch a plane back to London! What an unforgettable adventure. 

As promised, I kept tabs on the many unique (to the European culture) foods I came across. Though they certainly have endless options for delectable pastry items, I'm writing to prove that there's way more to European meals than just the sweets. So here it is, my list of healthy food finds abroad (with the exception of one or two). Enjoy! 

1. Too hot, too cold, juuuust right. Yes people, I'm talking about porridge. Being an avid oatmeal devour-er in the States, I was pretty stoked to try some England porridge -- I was certainly hooked after my first spoonful. Since it was sold everywhere, porridge became my morning go-to while abroad. I'd top it off with a sprinkle of almond slices and any berries that were offered -- 100 percent delish and 100 percent healthy (the perfect combo).

                             

2. Split pea soup. Although the color of the soup may be a bit repulsing, it's actually quite delicious. If you're a first-timer with this meal (like I was), split pea soup is pureed peas, ham and other veggies (like onions and carrots). It's a very light soup that hits the spot and leaves you not feeling stuffed. Not to mention, there are a ton of health benefits: high fiber, potassium (and other minerals), vitamin K, low calories... the list could go on.

Give this recipe a try and make it at home: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/emeril-lagasse/split-pea-and-ham-hock-soup-recipe.html

                        

3. Lunch for breakfast? Here's something a bit different from the norm. In each of the countries we visited (Ireland, England, Italy, Switzerland, France) there seemed to be a trend for morning meals. The layout of breakfast each morning included a mixture of hams, turkey, a myriad of cheese and veggies. Though I never could commit to forgoing breakfast foods (my favorite meal of the day), my momma did -- she loved the layout of different, yet healthy morning options. 

                                       

4. Tea, please. Gah... London tea time. This picture brings back great memories. For a little background info, my mom and I are suckers for a good tea time. We love settling down in the evening by making a hot pot of tea and scrolling through the latest Pinterest trends. So, when we made it to London, we were definitely excited to give the English tea time a try -- 'twas nothing less than lovely. There are so many benefits that come with drinking tea... An article I'll certainly have to write. For a Sparknotes version of health benefits, click here. As for the pastry items, they fall under the "exception items" mentioned in the beginning paragraphs. 

                                        

5. Happy Juicing! This was a fun find. I came across all of these different juices while at a coffee shop in the Chelsea district (in London). Not only did I have to try one (I bought the "Lean & Green" Vit-Hit), but I had to do some research on both Vit-Hit and Savse. Both juices are extremely healthy and offer a great amount of nutrients. What you see in the flavor description is what you get; each bottle is packed with various fruits and veggies, nothing more. I thoroughly enjoyed my Vit-Hit. It was scrumptious and actually filled me up. Come to America, Vit-Hit! To read more about the two, click the links: Vit-Hit or Savse

                             

6. Veggie and fruit stands! These stands were scattered everywhere throughout Europe. People would stop by to grab their weekly fruit and veggie groceries, while others (*cough,* us) just wanted a cheap and healthy snack. Nothing like a mid-day banana or apple, am I right? 

                             

7. Weeta-what? Weetabix! I'm very excited to write about this one. My mom and I discovered Weetabix during our hotel breakfast one morning. The unique packaging had us perplexed at first, but from the looks of it, Weetabix seemed like a popular morning meal -- we had to give it a try. Basically, Weetabix comes in the shape of clumped, shredded-wheat bars. Once a little (emphasis on the little) milk is poured over top of the bars, Weetabix turns into a porridge-wanna-be meal/soggy cereal. OK, so that makes it sound gross, but take my word on this one, it's scrumptious and offers a whole lot of health benefits (put link here). I fell in love. The best part: though the meal is unique to Europe, it's offered in America... Let my Weetabix obsession continue!! 

7. As stated above, this is the exception to my healthy finds, but boy is it worthy of being mentioned (actually can't believe I forgot to take a picture of it). Two words: chocolate crossant. Yes, it's definitely not a healthy start to the day... But necessary when in Paris. You may ask, "what's a chocolate crossant?" Well, it's exactly how you imagine: a warmed crossant filled with just the perfect amount of chocolate. Heavenly. Top it off with a morning latte and you've got yourself one heck of a good start to the day. 

Now that's a sweet ending... Thanks for reading!

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10 {mostly healthy} things to do in Paris

                                     

                               

                            

Last stop: Paris, France

Bonjour, bonjour! 

Well, we've officially come to the end of our wonderful, wonderful trip abroad. With that being said, what better way than to end the adventures with Paris?! Paris has been nothing less than magical.   The romantic architecture, historical views, beautiful language, quaint boutiques, kind-hearted people... Everything is simply enchanting here. Paris has definitely been the cherry on top of the sweetest ice cream sundae ever created! 

Paris, like many other cities we've seen this month, encourages an active lifestyle. There are parks, sidewalks and bike paths everywhere, promoting an easy walk/ride commute; who wouldn't take advantage of such a scenic stroll?! Each day, we'd get lost in the beauty of Paris (literally, lost) and would stumble upon a new, lovely area. Regardless if our new findings were planned or serendipitous, my momma and I loved every second together in the city. 

This article is all about our findings -- with a healthy twist, of course! So here ya go, the 10 {mostly healthy} things you must do in Paris! Enjoy :)

1. Visit the Eiffel Tower. This one is a no-brainer. The Tower is ginormous and beautiful; it literally "towers" over the entire city. Visiting the Eiffel Tower was one of the first things we did after arriving in Paris. Though we didn't have any spare time to try this, it's possible to climb the stairs up the tower. Can you imagine that view? Not to mention, the cardio-workout? Next time, fo sho. 

2. Walk through the Arc de Triumph on your way to Avenue des Champs-Élysées. The Arc is a famous monument in Paris that leads to the widely known shopping street, Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Personally, shopping has always been a sport to me, but even more so now. The avenue is 1.2 miles long, with a loop mileage of about 2.4 (yes, you'll want to shop on both sides of the street). Add in the walk from the Arc and you've nearly shopped your way to a 5k.

3. Skip the taxis and rent a bike to explore the city at a faster pace (than by foot). All over Paris, as well as most cities, there are bike racks with rentable bikes (from a company called Velib). The cost for one day is 1.7€, while seven days is 8€. You simple pay, ride around, then return the bike to any of the bike rack locations. What a great {inexpensive} way to cover some ground! 

4. Emerge yourself into the culture by learning a few words in their language! This one is fun and incorporates a different side of health. Prior to visiting Paris, mom and I knew how to say about five words in French... Combined. That quickly changed. All of the Parisians are certainly eager to help you learn their language if you show you're willing to try (they are such a great bunch). By the end of our stay, we could string together a couple of sentences in French. I definitely want to continue to learn the language. J'adore Paris! 

5. Stop for a mid-morning coffee at one of the many cafes. Adorable cafes are located all over Paris and sell a variety of goodies (especially coffee). Since exploring and walking miles can grow exhausting, find a nearby cafe and order a cup of coffee -- we all know coffee has wonderful health benefits (from my recent article)! There's no doubt that you'll enjoy sitting outside, while watching the Parisian lifestyle take place. 

6. Tour Notre Dame Cathedral and the Lourve to admire some ancient (and beautiful) art, including the Mona Lisa. Both of these locations are gorgeous, not to mention extremely historical. Both locations require some walking (especially if you're walking from one to the other) and leave you feeling enriched -- physical and mental health! 

7. After viewing the Notre Dame Cathedral, head over to Ile St. Louis for {more} quaint cafes and shops. Crossing over the bridge onto the ile is beautiful (have I used that word enough yet?). Accordion players and pure happiness greets you as you wander into the cute "island."

                             

8. Put your feet up and take a shopping break! Head to the nearest pâtisserie to buy a box of macaroons. No health whatsoever, but macaroons are always a necessity. Treat yourself. 

9. Take a leisure stroll through Jardin du Luxembourg (gardens). The landscaping of this garden is simply magnificent. It's filled with beautiful statues, seating areas and views. Don't forget the "jardin" when making your "to-see" list in Paris. 

10. I admit, I saved the best "must do" for last. Head to the Hyatt Regency bar (on the 33rd floor of the hotel) for an unforgettable, amazing view. While at the bar, we each ordered a glass of wine and veggie focaccia to share. Tip: Get there early (a little before 10:00pm) to claim a comfy couch by the window. Trust me, you won't regret waiting a little longer for the sun to set once you see the Tower glistening at night. 

Thanks for reading... And remember, "Paris is always a good idea."

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