WEIGHT, REALLY?! {07.10.2015}

Over the past few months E and I have been working very hard to loose weight. We successfully managed to lose 35 pounds each! It took hard, hard, HARD, work! We busted our bums and managed to get down to a manageable weight. I was so shocked when I started looking back at old photos from 2013. I was shocked that I let myself get to that point, but more shocking and horribly, I let the man that I love get that way. I know there are a lot of people who say "just be happy in the skin your in, fat or skinny," but when E and I were naturally toned people and you let your loved one get fat, it's a sad scenario. We are supposed to encourage each other. I was mad at myself for letting him get that unhealthy because it could have been very dangerous. He has diabetes in his family so to think that us gaining weight was just "ok," really breaks my heart. I could never imagine life without E and to think that I didn't encourage him to be the best he could be for himself, well let's just say it hit me.

 

Now, we are just 7 weeks away from our vacation and I want us to be in the best shape possible. Not to look good for photos. Not to wear bikinis and show off. But to be able to truly enjoy ourselves. When we went on our cruise, back in 2014, E was about 300 pounds and I was almost at 200 pounds. It was hard to do some things because we kept getting out of breath, we were lazy, and exhausted. Sure, we would probably be just fine now that we are at a much better body-state, but we aren't physically where we want to be. 

 

We haven't been able to get back to the gym due to the craziness that has been our life, but I am ready to start and Monday will be the day. No more nice guy/gal, we are hitting that gym hard and work our bums off again. The crazy thing is, we are both only 10 to 15 pounds away from our goal/ideal weight range. These next 7 weeks will probably be hell but it's about time. Taking a few weeks off from the gym is so hard and it's actually not fun. I miss the gym like crazy. I miss the workouts and the sweat. Time to get back!!!

 

I am really excited to share with you our new eating and workout plan. I will be posting all about it on Sunday to prep for the start on Monday.

 

Join us and together, we will get these bodies toned and tightened!

 

 

 

TUESDAY TREASURES {07.07.2015}

In honor of this beautifully hot Texas summer, I wanted to share some of my favorite Texas hidden gems. Maybe you've been wanting to plan a "stay-cation" but haven't figured out where you want to go. Maybe, you're like me, and are tired of driving to Galveston or Kemah and want something different. Here are five hidden gems throughout the great state of Texas.

 

 

1. Medina River

 

With cypress trees, the winding and gorgeous Medina River could be called the most beautiful river in Texas. It typically doesn't attract the large crowds like the Guadalupe or Frio River, which means it's perfect for relaxation and feeling like you aren't even in Texas. The best way to access this gorgeous river is by driving to Bandera. Be sure to bring your tent or camper because you won't want to leave after one day. Also, be sure to check water reports before visiting.

  

 

 

2. Jacob's Well

 

This gorgeous, 30-foot-deep artesian spring is growing in popularity and I know exactly why. Just looking through photos you can tell this place is the top spot for a "stay-cation." Located just north of Wimberly, Jacob's Well has become very popular with divers. Although, it is not recommended due to the amount of diver's who have lost their lives from the false exits. This would be the perfect get away and is a perfect example of a "hidden gem."

3. Gorman Falls

This incredibly, dream-like hidden gem is located within Colorado Bend State Park, just northwest of Austin. With 60-foot-tall waterfalls creating a lush green canyon, this stop will remind you more of Hawaii then Texas. Although the dry seasons will likely disappoint, it's a perfect time during the summer and you don't want to miss out on all the beauty this gem has to offer.

 

 

 

4. Hamilton Pool

 

This hidden oasis is becoming more and more popular. Located west of Austin, visitors will walk a short trail through a stream-fed canyon that will lead you to this one-of-a-kind grotto. Being that this beautiful location is known to be one of the best swimming holes in Texas, you will likely see hordes of crowds, but if you head there early enough on a weekday you will avoid the crowds and can enjoy Hamilton Pool all to yourself.

5. Krause Springs

Saving my personal favorite for last! Krause Springs is one of the absolute best hidden gems in Texas. Located in Spicewood about 30 miles west of Austin, this stunning location boast camping, a rope swing, butterfly garden, and swimming holes galore. Most weekends you will have plenty of room to enjoy some quality "stay-cation" family time, but during the holidays, such as July 4, arrive early to get your spot as Krause Springs will fill up fast. Camping in tents does not require a reservation, but if you're bringing your camper, you will need to reach out and reserve your spot. You won't regret spending a weekend or two here!

Thanks for checking out this week's edition of Tuesday Treasures.

 

God Bless Texas and all the beautiful hidden gems. Have you've visited one of these gems before? If not, add them to your "must visit" bucket list.

 

INDEPENDENCE DAY {07.04.2015}

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HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!

Let's be reminded that this day is not just another day off from work, this was the day we declared independence from Great Britain.

July 4, 1776 what an incredible feat to finally be able to be the strong, home of the free because of the brave!

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Whatever your plans are for today, let freedom ring and be proud to call the U.S.A. your home!

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