Wearing Thin

Fine, thinning hair runs in my family (the only trait I am NOT happy I inherited from my gorgeous mother). As I get older it gets worse and I've been growing more self conscious about it lately. SO! I decided to take the advice of my Aveda stylist and try their Invati system - 97% natural, ayurvedic hair care. The reviews say it helps reduce thinning and plump up fine hair. If it works as good as it smells I am in for a treat. Here goes nothing!

Buh-bye Summer...

Summer in the South

It's been a pretty exciting summer this year, certainly one of the best on record for me personally. Normally I hibernate during hot weather which leads to a more sedentary existence, but not this year. Blessed with a more mild weather scenario than we're used to in the Carolinas, I squeezed in some day trips, long weekends and outdoor activities that helped me further my revival efforts! My favorite was a trip to Savannah to enjoy the early summer weather, strolls through the city's many garden parks and an epic dinner at The Alligator Soul. Better yet, my FAVORITE season of all is just around the corner...lookout Fall 2013 - PR has plans for you!

2012 vs 2013

I was scrolling through the shots on my iPhone today and happened upon a picture from my birthday celebration in 2012. What a fun time with my brother for Karaoke! What struck me was the difference in my appearance and the feeling of happiness I felt this year vs. last. What a difference a year makes!

What's in Season?

For those of you looking for what's in season in your home state, take a digital stroll on over to Epicurious.com and check out their Peak-Season Map. Just click on your state and find out what's ready to go from farm to table. Not sure about you, but being the Apple ho that I am, I'm more than a little excited for September to get here.

The New Favorites

A lot of people assume I have been depriving myself since January as I whittle away at my weight loss goal. NOT the case. These past few months I have incorporated my favorites in a smart, moderated way while cultivating new favorites I never expected to crave as much as a burger and fries.

Favorite #1 - Goodies from the Farmers Market: Top left is a gorgeous bounty my staff gave me for my birthday. I absolutely adore eating fresh, seasonal food and a burst of color from a farm bouquet is a mood booster.

Favorite #2 - The Occasional Cocktail: Top right is a chilly, delicious shot of my beloved cocktail, The Cosmopolitan. This one from Almond in Manhattan was perfection! The vodka is low in calories and is virtually guilt free for the occasional indulgence. I don't skimp on the vodka choice, top shelf all the way. (Belvedere if its available!)

Favorite #3 - Green Power Salad: One of the very first recipes I posted on PR this salad (bottom right) is a staple in my diet. Incorporating both seasonal and non-seasonal goodies (avocado is a must) I have served this for family and guests alike to rave reviews. Healthy, satisfying and guaranteed to boost your energy.

Favorite #4 - Good, GOOD coffee: Nothing replaces a solid cup of Joe. The one above I enjoyed at my birthday dinner at BLT Steak in Charlotte. Just a dash of raw sugar and a swipe of lemon zest and all is right with the world. At home I invested in a top notch coffee maker and good beans for every day. Nothing like starting your morning with a delicious boost.

Travel + Mindful Eating = Success

Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale

PR is back from a whirlwind 3 days in Scottsdale, AZ. Soaring temps surpassing 110 and a jam packed work summit made for an intense trip but one thing I am proud of is the fact I can now travel and not worry about gaining weight! I lost 1.4 lbs this week (breaking through a plateau) and I owe it all to mindful eating. Most venues are much better about having healthier options on hand and I lucked out with a plethora of fresh fruit, veggies and Mexican inspired meals that kept it light. I also avoid cocktails during work events, smart for the waistline and the career image. My other fail safe is to have high quality organic nuts and protein bars on hand throughout my journey. That means I am never stuck with an unhealthy choice. Even airports have gotten WAY better at installing food options outside greasy burgers and fries. (On the way home through Salt Lake International I enjoyed a small Pinkberry fro-yo with fresh raspberries and pineapple - what a treat! ) The more I live this new life of mine the more I wonder how I managed to live through my old one. I would not trade this feeling of health and wellness for anything. Another gift I've discovered on my road to revival.

West Bound and Desert Down

PR hits the road tomorrow for Scottsdale, AZ. While it's a trip for work, there is something extremely special about the desert. Yes it's summer and the temps are spiking at 110, but the dry air is actually a refreshing change from the damp, close summer air in the South. Packing is always a challenge and even more so when your wardrobe is transitional, but I have found the following staples to be invaluable for journey's near and far...

• Patterned Jersey Wrap Dress: I have come to LOVE a good wrap dress as I shed pounds. They last for at least two sizes and travel impeccably well. My go to is a black and white number by Maggy London. Sassy meets comfy.
• Cotton Cardis/V-neck Ts: Perfect for a chilly plane ride or an over-air-conditioned meeting room, these two basics have become a staple for me this summer. Interestingly enough, I have splurged on the cardigans, pricey on sale at J Crew, but the quality of the cotton holds its shape much better than the bargain ones at Target or Old Navy. Their vintage cotton Ts are also a great buy and last through many a wash. This trip it's a mint green number with a few patterned Ts.
• Cotton Pencil Skirt: This basic, purchased at Target in multiple colors, is a must have. While the sizes run small, at $22.99 you can replenish as you lose weight and, once more, they travel like a dream. This trip it's basic black to mix and match.
• Nude Pumps: My new favorite basic goes with everything (mine are Tahari from DSW) and are great for travel. I also carry a pair if nude patent flats from Steven Madden for the plane. It's all you need for the whole trip outside your workout sneakers.
• Statement Necklace: I invested in the Black Bubble Necklace from JCrew and never looked back. I wear it often, with every color combo and it always makes me feel glamorous.