what i gave myself for christmas

Announcement: As of today I have not worked out in two weeks.

I made the decision to give myself that gift for this Holiday season.

Even though I usually only work out for an hour a day, a lot of planning and effort goes into it.

So to allow myself this freedom has been, well, freeing. I haven't taken more than 4 days off in 2 years, so I didn't feel guilty for a minute. If fact, I enjoyed it!

But, as it feels with everything else today, it's back to reality!

2014 is obviously going to be a huge year for me, so I'm ready to get back into the fitness groove.

In the same light of resolutions, I have a few fitness goals for myself this year.

K gave me a month of Barre Evolution for my Birthday...

I am planning to use it in February or March and go 5 times a week.  Gotta get my money's worth!

And I can't wait to see the changes I'll make.  I am looking forward to this challenge.

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I am also planning on participating in some sort of HIIT program.  I have tried out the GRIT program at Gold's, but I would also like to see what else is out there. 

Has anyone been to Crescent Fitness on JI?

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Additionally, I would like to run a 10K this year.  I am thinking I will do the James Island Connector Run (11.1.14)

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 I never realized how much more free time I would have if I stopped working out.    

These past two weeks have made me realize that fitness isn't something that I schedule around my life, it is part of my life. 

Without it, something is missing.

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I took this picture after an especially intense Body Combat class. 

I was just really in the zone and when I left, I felt beautiful.   

I've said it before, but that is why I work out.

Not to be skinny or sculpted, but to feel beautiful. 

I hope everyone finds something in life that gives them this satisfaction.

So it's back to the gym for me, how are you kicking off the new year?

My Last NYE as a LeaMond + Honeymoon Thoughts

This Holiday season I have really treasured the notion that it is my last as a LeaMond.

I can't wait to be LLN, but I will miss being LTL.

Anyway, for the second year in a row now I just could not care less about what's going on for New Years Eve.

My happiest place on Earth, where I wish to spend every years' ending and beginning, is at home with my babes.

Despite my general outgoing nature, I prefer time at home to social situations on most days, and tonight is no exception.

K recieved a Gift Certificate to Ted's Butcherblock for Christmas so he is picking up something special for the grill.

I bought this fun headband that I'm wearing just for kicks.

It's sure to be a wild time!

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Ok so now onto some Honeymoon thoughts,

which sounds little more exciting I must admit ;)

We have been doing some preliminary thinking about it.  I know that K is going to do most of the major planning for this,  but I love looking at Vacation packages so I had to share! We have discussed taking a small trip immediatly following our wedding (NYC!) and then waiting until late December for the actual "big trip" (K's slowest time at work).  

For the Honeymoon, here is what we know we want:

All Inclusive

Couples Only

Boutique (not Sandles, Beaches, etc)

Tropical

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So far we've found two possible resorts. 

We still have so many other places to look, but here's a start!

1.

Mango Bay, Barbados

I first heard of this place on Wheel of Fortune, it was one of the Vacation giveaways.  I thought it looked so nice!  The Trip Advisor Reviews are generally good.  My concerns lie with it's proximity to town.  I am worried about needlessly spending money on "local flavor", and also familiarizing myself with safety precautions, etc. 

I could really get used to a view like this: 

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2.

Coco Bay, Antigua

 This resort deems itself "the most Romantic", which sounds great.  It is secluded, away from any towns or villages.  I also love the plunge pool option! 

So far either one looks like a dream come true!

Anyone have any feedback?

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Favorites from 2013

I went through my 2013 archives and chose several of my favorite photos to share, as a recap of sorts. 

I think that the pictures below capture the things I love most in life:

My family and friends. 

My passion for food and philanthropy and party planning. 

My love for the Lowcountry.

The reason behind my blogging in 2013 was all about choosing to focus on the joy in my life, and not the struggles. 

By sharing the positive moments and pretty things, I find myself really looking at everything through rose colored glasses.  To anyone reading: I hope that your 2014 is filled with small special "blog worthy" moments that make getting through the other stuff a little easier :)

So Much Love!!!

Laura