Was August Awesome? [giveaway]

*******************************This giveaway ended Sept. 1, 2011 at 10:30 EST. Stay tuned for the next one!

At the beginning of this month, I posted a list of 10 Ways to Make August Awesome. Itโ€™s always fun to have some monthly motivation and goals, so Iโ€™ll probably do similar lists for each month ๐Ÿ˜€

Bellaโ€™s August in a snapshot:

bell

Hereโ€™s what was on there and how I did with my own personal list:

1. Have something to look forward to. For me, it was Healthy Living Summit – just as amazing as I anticipated it to be. The best part? Getting the Pilot away from work for a weekend so he could join me ๐Ÿ˜‰

us (2)

2. Create a goal for the month. First my goal was to practice more yoga, but it just didnโ€™t happen. I just feel awkward and uncomfortable, especially since I canโ€™t rock out handstands or arm balances right now, so I didnโ€™t practice as much as I would have liked. [Looking back, itโ€™s such a lame excuse. If I want to do it, I should do it, thatโ€™s all there is to it] Instead, I began to work on another goal that may come into fruition, but Iโ€™m superstitious and wonโ€™t post about it until all is bueno ๐Ÿ˜‰

3. Plan a dinner party. Done and done! Now that our house has been โ€œwarmedโ€ and 99.9% of our stuff is unpacked, we can start to have frequent smaller dinner parties like we used to. Iโ€™m so excited ๐Ÿ˜€

house party 011

4. Go through your summer clothes and determine which ones youโ€™d like to get rid of before storing the rest for fall and winter. I actually did this one before I posted this list, and my closet feels SO good! Bonus: room for new clothes! Heh heh.

closet

5. Go for a swim! This didnโ€™t happen. I thought it would motivate me to do it, but nope. Iโ€™m a floater, not a swimmer ๐Ÿ˜‰

6. Pick up a new cookbook to try this month, or borrow one from a friend. This was exciting because I unpacked all of my cookbooks, including 3 new ones that I didnโ€™t get to use before we moved from Valdosta. I canโ€™t wait to bust into them!

cookbooks

[We have another shelf full of cookbooks, too. Forgotten treasures!!]

7. Sign up for a fitness event with a friend. I havenโ€™t done this one yet, but am seriously considering the spring half marathon here in Tucson. I was supposed to do it this past year, but didnโ€™t since I went to LA instead for Gatorade. This one will be about 12 weeks after the baby is born, so Iโ€™ll walk/run it, but really want to add some running back into my routine. I miss the โ€œex boyfriendโ€ โ€“ itโ€™s funny how you miss things when you canโ€™t do them ๐Ÿ˜‰ I ran a little first trimester, but it felt weird after a while so I stopped.

8. Scope out some new jeans for fall. This one happens on an almost daily basis. My pick for fall:

image J Brand

Love the cut, wash, length, everything ๐Ÿ™‚

9. Go out for a girls night ๐Ÿ˜€ Iโ€™m lucky to be surrounded by girls in the squadron who always want to hang out-ย  we did quite a few dinners and movie nights ๐Ÿ™‚

10. Eat a pizookie. This one actually didnโ€™t happen! The Pilot and I were planning a pizookie date, and then he had to work late that night and we just didnโ€™t go. I did have fondue this month, though ๐Ÿ˜‰

fondue

So was your August Awesome?

Hereโ€™s one more way for that to happen:

You see, I bought a boatload of macaroon supplies for HLS and didnโ€™t have time to make them before our trip.

roon supplies

I love almonds, but I donโ€™t think I need 3 lbs ๐Ÿ˜‰

So Iโ€™d love to make a custom batch of macaroons for a reader- any flavor: Meyer lemon lavender, blonde, chocolate, mocha, chocolate almond butter, super roon [Of course, other things may sneak their way into the package, too]

roons (2)

*******************************This giveaway ended Sept. 1, 2011 at 10:30 EST. Stay tuned for the next one!

See ya later today with a Fashion post <3

xoxo

Gina


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1,145 Comments

  1. beccah on August 31, 2011 at 12:52 pm

    I cant think of anything I want to change about the blog ๐Ÿ˜€ *thumbs up* ๐Ÿ˜› my goals are ones that I feel like I need to accomplish in order to have the life I want *volunteer on a regular basis *workout more/be more active on a daily basis *stop binging {I stopped purging awhile agobut still have a prob w binging} *meditate more *move on from my past *figure out how I want to eat and stick with it *stop self harming {this will be the toughest but well worht it,I’ve come a ways already ๐Ÿ˜€ :P}

  2. Necia on August 31, 2011 at 12:53 pm

    Don’t change a thing! Your blog rocks! It’s funny how u mentioned u missed the ex-boyfriend, I know exactly what you mean. I don’t consider myself a runner yet, but I was trying, and shortly after I got injured, and I miss it more then you know! It’s amazing! Anyway, I hope to be re-united tomorrow.

  3. Lauren @ Sassy Molassy on August 31, 2011 at 12:53 pm

    August was a reeeeally busy month for me between my training (for a 50K trail race AND marathon that are coming up), Healthy Living Summit and prepping for the manfriend’s brother and his wife to come visit from Chicago. We’ve been up to our ears in house projects and when we’re not, I’m most likely sweating on a trail somewhere, running hours on end. But the races are finally in sight and I CAN’t WAIT to have some down time and just be a little more creative.

    I always love seeing your fashion posts, workout stuff (gear, prep, workouts, ab burners), and life in general.

  4. Dana on August 31, 2011 at 12:54 pm

    Love reading the family tab. Thanks for letting us get a sneak peek into a personal part of your life.

  5. Caitlin on August 31, 2011 at 12:54 pm

    Chocolate Almond Butter sounds sooooo delicious.

    Glad you had a good August! Mine was good, but I’m looking forward to September, too! =)

  6. China on August 31, 2011 at 12:54 pm

    I love all of your simple, healthy, tasty recipes! I had also totally forgotten about mug cake, and I made one yesterday (with my own little tweaks added in) – yum! I know you may not be cooking as much with the impending arrival of the nuggette, but I hope you keep posting recipes whenever you can!

  7. Theresa on August 31, 2011 at 12:54 pm

    Yum, Meyer lemon lavender! My August was pretty great. Last night marked 2 months since my ACL reconstruction surgery and I was able to do the elliptical! I’ve been on the bike doing low resistance, but it was nice to do something different and actually feel like I got a bit of a cardio workout! I love your blog! Its so fun reading the usual posts and the Family posts are like an extra treat! Thanks for sharing your journey with us ๐Ÿ™‚

  8. Niki on August 31, 2011 at 12:54 pm

    I want to see the baby fitnessista’s first initial!! Let the guessing begin ๐Ÿ™‚

  9. Nan on August 31, 2011 at 12:54 pm

    I love seeing what types of snacks you pack when you go in for work, mixed with recipes for dinner parties! As a college student, I’m always on the go and snacking but I still like to make a real, healthy meal every so often ๐Ÿ™‚

  10. Jennie on August 31, 2011 at 12:54 pm

    I love your blog and the August list was a great idea. My August included a ton of family time which is just what I needed! Loved every second of it ๐Ÿ™‚

  11. Faith @ For the Health of It on August 31, 2011 at 12:55 pm

    August was a rough month for me, but I’m determined to make September an awesome one. I think it can happen – especially with some goals to help me make things to look forward to!

  12. Lisa Garcia on August 31, 2011 at 12:57 pm

    Hi Gina! My August was defintely awesome! Started off August with a cruise through the Bahamas!!
    I am already working on one of my goals to Make September Awesome! Attend 2 Body Pump Classes mixed in with 2 cardio sessions each week, no excuses!!
    Thanks for providing such a fun, uplifting and motivating blog to read!

  13. Valerie on August 31, 2011 at 12:57 pm

    I really like coming to your blog because I always find your posts light-hearted and fun ๐Ÿ™‚

  14. Katherineb on August 31, 2011 at 12:58 pm

    I need to practice yoga more too! I don’t understand why I am so lazy about incorporating it into my life, I knnow and love the benefits SO much! Such is life i guess. ๐Ÿ™‚ Roons plzzzzz

  15. Nicole on August 31, 2011 at 12:59 pm

    I love the idea of setting goals for the month, and I think I’m going to do it for September.

    My awesome happenings in August was getting to vacation with my hubby, my best friend and her hubby. We live 2 hours apart, and it’s awesome to spend time with her. Also, my cousins came to visit from Canada and it was a blast. I miss them already. August will be hard to top for awesomeness!

  16. Beth on August 31, 2011 at 12:59 pm

    August has been special for me because I found out I’m pregnant. I’m still in a state of shock, but can’t wait for the journey ahead!

  17. Andrea on August 31, 2011 at 12:59 pm

    Love the blog, espeically the fitness tips directly from an expert! Rest days are so important and I love that you get that and explain the difference between being tired (aka not motivated) and really needing a break!

    I would love your macaroons! Fingers crossed I win ๐Ÿ™‚

  18. Lonnie on August 31, 2011 at 12:59 pm

    I enjoy your blog too… yes, you are lighthearted and fun, and you give me a “pep” when I need it. I love your “get it done” attitude.. sometimes I need a little more of that, and you inspire me in that way…… thanks!

  19. Michelle Gabela on August 31, 2011 at 12:59 pm

    Hey Gina,
    As always it has been really fun following you this month. August was def a good month, its a big month for weddings and I am definitely at the age were everyone around me is getting married. So lots of weddings, bach parties, showers etc… I <3 summer…kinda bummed for it to be over. xoxo

  20. JC on August 31, 2011 at 1:00 pm

    Just wanted to say hi & I love your blog! Especially your fitness and family posts – I’m pregnant too and am due a month after you so its been cool to see all thing things I get to look forward too. Thanks for being awesome! ๐Ÿ™‚

  21. Stephanie on August 31, 2011 at 1:00 pm

    I always like reading your posts about your relationship with The Pilot. Y’all are too cute together!

  22. Emily on August 31, 2011 at 1:00 pm

    What an awesome giveaway! It’s my goal to *someday* try some of your famous macroons!

    I love the “longer term” goals that you post! Just like the one you recapped today! (:

  23. Hannah on August 31, 2011 at 1:01 pm

    August was such a good month because my husband and I went to Hawaii!!! It was beautiful. You and the pilot would LOVE it. Or maybe you’ve already been:) Either way, it’s my new favorite getaway!

  24. Erin on August 31, 2011 at 1:01 pm

    I am so happy for all the good that is happening in your life! My August was pretty awesome too, I think its making way for an even better September!

  25. Melissa on August 31, 2011 at 1:02 pm

    I just wanted to say how great your blog is….I have been reading it daily for over a year now and have been telling all my clients and co-workers about it:)

  26. Laura on August 31, 2011 at 1:05 pm

    I always enjoy seeing your unique spins on healthy foods that I never think of. It definitely makes it easier (and more fun) to eat healthy when the recipes are all right here!

  27. Lisa V on August 31, 2011 at 1:05 pm

    I recently stumbled across your blog and it’s become a part of my daily routine. I love that you cover not only fitness of course, but healthy eating, fashion, day to day life, pregnancy, etc. You do a great job with all your entries and it’s always an enjoyable part of my day.

  28. Kristen on August 31, 2011 at 1:06 pm

    This is my first time commenting, but I’ve been reading your blog for months now! I love it! Reading about your growing family has been really fun!

    I love when you include the little 8-10 minute workout ideas to do at home. Sometimes when I haven’t done ANYTHING all day, I go into a Word.doc where I’ve saved some of your short workouts and will do 1 or 2. They’re short, simple, and sweet, but I always sweat a little from them! Keep them coming please!

    August has been great for me because I’ve visited lots of friends and am in the process of beginning my new career! Exciting!

  29. Jen Correa @ Mom's Gotta Run on August 31, 2011 at 1:06 pm

    August was pretty rough but ended awesome when my sister gave birth on Saturday night. <3 Keep doing exactly what you do. I love reading your blog every day.

  30. Katie o on August 31, 2011 at 1:07 pm

    The “focus on” posts have been really informative! Can’t wait to read more!

    I have been feeling really down lately thinking I gained some weight. I have a little but it’s making me just want to eat more. I have been dying for your macaroons forever! A healthy treat. Here’s to hoping!!

  31. Sarah on August 31, 2011 at 1:08 pm

    In August I made a conscience effort to meet someone. And I did on the 4th. So far, so good! We see each other everyday now!
    Love your blog and I’m really hoping to win the yummies! Thanks!

  32. Britne @ Shabbott's Habits on August 31, 2011 at 1:08 pm

    Hey Gina, I love your blog.

    This August was awesome for me because I started running outside again after an ankle sprain that left me unable to run this spring. It feels sooooo good to be running again!

  33. Heather on August 31, 2011 at 1:09 pm

    I’ve never had a maccaroon. But after hearing about them from you all the time, I am pretty sure I lust them.

    I love reading your blog everyday, hearing about your family experiences and am pretty jealous you are so motivated to work out on a regular basis. I have gotten back to working out semi-regularly, and will def. return to running when Florida stops being 95+ degrees with humidity over 100. I enjoy your wide variety of posts (keeps it all interesting!), and pretty much wish you would come cook for me everyday!

    Thanks for everything you do, congrats on your new house and lil nugette. (Where’s the initial you teased about!?)

  34. Jessica on August 31, 2011 at 1:09 pm

    Loveeee those JBrand jeans! And those macaroons would make the perfect breakfast…I want one now!

  35. Charlotte on August 31, 2011 at 1:10 pm

    Long time reader here. Your blog is in my bookmark toolbar. I like the frequency of posts and their variety. The family page is fantastic; thanks for sharing that with us such a special stage of your and the Pilot’s life. I’d appreciate another finances-related post. Your business/finances expertise is very helpful. Thanks!

  36. Pam on August 31, 2011 at 1:10 pm

    Love your blog & positive attitude!

  37. Kaylene on August 31, 2011 at 1:11 pm

    August was a little frustrating for me on the fitness front–my motivation fell to the wayside for quite a while. But it’s ending on a good note, as I was able to take a week off from work to go HOME for my vacation. I’m a native Tucsonan as well, so it’s nice to be back to visit family and friends (and Mexican food).

  38. Coco on August 31, 2011 at 1:11 pm

    I <3 fitnessista! (Such an original comment, I know.)

  39. Cara on August 31, 2011 at 1:12 pm

    I love your August goal list, Lets make one for September!!

  40. Brianna on August 31, 2011 at 1:12 pm

    august for me was pretty awesome.. I finally signed up to become a certified fitness instructor.. I’m so excited. as of right now I teach at L.A. Fitness (use my own music ๐Ÿ˜‰ hehe) but I’m ready to transform the lives of some high schoolers in my area. I think having an afterschool bootcamp or fitness class would be awesome for them! Because honestly I know some high schoolers want to lose weight and get fit but are scared or don’t know how. So I though a little class setup outside (or inside since we are in deathly hot phoenix, az) would be a great opportunity to get fit!! yayayay!!!!

  41. Heather from NC on August 31, 2011 at 1:12 pm

    I love the Bella pics and stories. We have two little mixed breeds…a Tibi-Poo (Tibetan Terrier/Toy Poodle) and a Malti-Pom (Maltese/Pomeranian). They both twirl for treats, too!

  42. Sami on August 31, 2011 at 1:12 pm

    You blog brightens my day…everyday! (: Even more so that you’ve got the cute lil baby bump goin’ on. So sweet. You & the Pilot are the epitome of what I aspire to be like as a couple. Now that I’m done gushing over The Fitnessista, I’d like to see more posts of your pregnancy journey… You know, cute maternity clothes, etc. I think it’d be cool to come along for the ride!

    I’ve got my fingers crossed that I win those roonies, too. I’ve wanted to try them since the first time I read your blog!!

    xo.

  43. Megan on August 31, 2011 at 1:14 pm

    I loooove the family page (& the whole bloggy) keep it up! ๐Ÿ™‚

  44. Meghan on August 31, 2011 at 1:14 pm

    Hey Gina ๐Ÿ™‚ I read your blog every. single. day. I don’t know why, but I don’t receive emails for new posts so I literally check your blog every time I go on the internet. Whent there is a new post, a smile comes to my face immediately ๐Ÿ™‚ You actually inspired me to create my own blog, so I guess that is what made my month of August awesome ๐Ÿ™‚ What is even more awesome!? My first post is being posted today! ๐Ÿ™‚ THE GRAND OPENING OF MY BLOG ๐Ÿ™‚ hehe. Can you tell I am excited? ๐Ÿ˜‰

    xoxo

  45. Amy on August 31, 2011 at 1:15 pm

    Love the blog! Lately, I have been especially enjoying the family posts. They are always so sweet and make me look forward to when I have a little nugget of my own ๐Ÿ™‚

  46. Dynamics on August 31, 2011 at 1:15 pm

    I love reading your blog and the only thing I can think of is MORE BELLLLLAAAAAA!! She has a way of making my morning start with a smile.

  47. kristin on August 31, 2011 at 1:15 pm

    I’d love to try your macaroons!

  48. tania on August 31, 2011 at 1:15 pm

    i really enjoy your family posts, and your honesty!
    learning a lot about the process, hopefully ill experience it soon myself ๐Ÿ™‚

    u got me hooked on goats cheese fyi ๐Ÿ˜‰

  49. Leslie on August 31, 2011 at 1:17 pm

    I love the list of motiviation. I can’t wait to see what you post for September. Fall is my favorite season of the year and I can’t wait for it to get here!

  50. Michelle on August 31, 2011 at 1:18 pm

    Love everything about your blog — it’s a joy to read everyday!

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