July Playlist

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My Running Essentials

{Armband for iPhone / Nike Flyknit Lunar2 / Running Socks / Headband}

For the past year, I have made an effort to go running, or do some type of cardiovascular exercise every day. Now that the weather has warmed up, I have begun to run outside on a path near my house. I usually run 4+ miles each day, and when I don't run outside, I run on my treadmill. I used to absolutely hate running. I grew up as a competitive gymnast, and that was my exercise. Due to an injury, I am no longer able to do gymnastics as rigorously as I used to, so I began to run. Now that I have been running regularly for about a year, I love it. My runs are usually one of my favorite parts of the day. It keeps endorphins flowing and is a great way to de-stress. 

I always listen to music while I run, so an iPhone armband and earbuds are a must! I recently got a pair of Nike Flyknit Lunar2 running shoes to replace my old Nikes, and these are my absolutely favorite. They are more minimal, but still have great support and are extremely comfortable. Lululemon headbands are my favorite to keep my hair out of my face during my runs; they are definitely worth the price! I recently bought myself a Fitbit Flex, which I will be doing a separate post on soon. It has been a great way to monitor my running and sleep schedule!

What are some of your exercise essentials?

Brunch on the Upper West Side

 Before catching the train to return home, I was able to enjoy Brunch on the Upper West Side of Manhattan at a cute street-side restaurant called Isabella's. The bread pudding french toast was to die for, and the nearby scenery was absolutely gorgeous.

Exploring Central Park

I have to admit, I had never had the opportunity to spend much time exploring Central Park until this past weekend. I was able to see the Lakes and relax on some of the rock formations that overlook the fields. The park is absolutely breathtaking. You would never expect to find such beauty amongst the hustle and bustle of New York City.

Chelsea and SoHo Adventures

Chelsea and SoHo have always been two of my favorite places in New York City. The atmosphere is much more relaxed than that of Times Square, and the shopping is much, much better. I spent some time walking on the Highline in Chelsea, which is an old train rail that has been turned into an overhead path. After a morning in Chelsea, I made my way down to SoHo for some shopping, and came across the SoHo location of Georgetown Cupcake! And of course, I wore my new Lilly romper for National Wear Your Lilly Day!

Sunny Day on Madison Avenue

Early Friday morning, I left my hometown of farmland for a weekend in New York. New York City is one of my absolute favorite places to be. I spent late Friday morning and all afternoon in Upper Manhattan at the American Museum of Natural History and strolling down Madison Avenue. Of course, I picked up some macarons from Ladurée (which were delicious), and did some shopping in Lilly Pulitzer and Tory Burch.

Graduation Celebration

This past Saturday, my family held a graduation party for me! Many of my friends and family members came to celebrate with me! My parents did such a wonderful job organizing the whole event. My Mom was very crafty with the decorations and the adorable canvas she painted for my dorm in the fall. I know everyone had a ton of fun, I sure did! I am so thankful for everyone in my life for making this time so special for me! 

What I Wore

Dress // Bracelets

The Lucky Knot

I have shopped at my fair share of stores, and the Lucky Knot in Old Town Alexandria, VA is one of my favorite places to find classic brands. I am so glad to be working with the company this summer. Check out their online store, and use the coupon code 'Life in Pearls' at checkout for 15% off! 

Congratulations to the Class of 2014

 I am proud to say that I am officially an alumni of my high school! Graduation flew by, and I am ready to begin this new chapter of my life! Congratulations to everyone who graduated!

Summer Driving Playlist

These are some of my favorites to listen to with the car windows down. What songs are at the top of your summer playlist?

Jellies Be Jammin'

I started crafting for my dorm over the weekend and wanted to share my first piece with y'all! I chose to paint the Lilly print Jellies Be Jammin' and I am very happy with the way it turned out! I can't wait to display it in my dorm room this fall!