Top Five Friday #24

Happy Friday everyone!!

I'm switching up my graphics today to get ready for the end of summer/beginning of fall.  Fresh flowers just didn't seem appropriate anymore, so I did a little water-coloring in Paint!  I hope you like it.


Today's topic from the Friday Five ladies is "5 Things I'll be Doing in 5 Years".  I already have a post dedicated to that (my 30x30 list..check it out here!), so today I wanted to share 5 events that I'm looking forward to that are taking place within 5 years.  Most of these I won't actually be able to attend, but if I find a few spare dollars lying around, I'm there!


2016 Summer / 2018 Winter Olympics

 

I am the biggest Olympic fan and get really excited when the Games start!  I'm already starting a countdown to next years' Games (less than a year!!!).  I would love the chance to see a few events, so maybe Pittsburgh will host it some year; otherwise, I need to do some traveling. 

2016 Election

Presidential elections are always an interesting time in the United States.  During the last election, I was away at college (and it was my first time voting for president) so I feel like I can make a more informed decision this time around.  This is not going to turn into a political blog at all, but it's always interesting to follow the debates and primary elections!  We'll see what happens...

Penn State/Pitt Rivalry 2.0

source
Most of my family attended Penn State for college, and I knew from a young age that there was a huge rivalry with Pitt.  Unfortunately, that football rivalry has been dormant since 2000, but there's a four-year series starting in 2016.  I couldn't be more excited and hope to make it to a least one of those games (still deciding if I should just go to the game in Pittsburgh for convenience, or travel to Penn State to be at home).  In case you're wondering, Penn State is leading in the series 50-42-4!

Star Wars Episode VII, VIII and IX

When Dan and I first started dating, his only request was for me to watch the entire Star Wars franchise.  I ended up watching them in numerical order and really liked the films, so I'm excited to see the new ones come out!  I have to admit that I'm a little disappointed that my favorite character (Jar Jar) isn't in the new movies.  Apparently I'm the only one who liked his silly sense of humor, because he's supposedly the most-hated movie character.

SeaWheeze Half Marathon

This entire section is sponsored by Jennifer because she is the main reason for my Lululemon obsession.  Not only does she make me want to buy every article of clothing they offer, but now I want to run their annual half marathon!  I'm hoping to register for the 2016 race, but it apparently sells out within minutes so let's just add this to my "future plans" list just in case!


Happiness Project Update

Gold Star of the Week

I'm not even sure if this will qualify as a gold star, but I kinda invented my own drink and I'm obsessed with it- drinking it non stop this week.  I mix one scoop of Trader Joe's Spicy Chai Tea Latte mix with a cup of hot water, then pour in a splash of hazelnut creamer.  It's amazing- all those delicious exotic flavors of the chai with the perfect amount of creaminess.  I'm pretty obsessed and think you should all try it as well!

Demerit of the Week

I haven't been biking much recently.  After my original excitement about having the bike (and trying to get over my fear of riding it) I've been neglecting it a bit in favor of running a lot.  I need to start committing to riding a few miles every week before it gets too cold out!  To my Pittsburghers out there, where is your favorite place to bike?


Songs

The Butts Remix : Home Free

This band won the most recent season of the Sing-Off, and Dan and I are obsessed with them!  Their videos are always hilarious, and they do a great mix of original songs and covers.  This remix has a bunch of great songs, and the way they mixed them all is perfect.

Fire Under My Feet : Leona Lewis

I don't normally associate Leona Lewis with songs that make you want to dance, but this song is definitely that!  I love this song so much, and can't wait to hear the entire album (which is being released in September!)

Drag Me Down : One Direction

No shame, I love this song! Am I too old to like One Direction?  What's the cutoff?

679 : Fetty Wep

To be honest, I just love every song that Fetty Wep is in.  I don't know if it's something about his style of rapping or his unique voice, but I just download every song that he's featured in!  This is no exception, and it's been on repeat in my current running playlist.



What is your "happiness gold star" of the week?
Is there any event you're looking forward to in the next few years?

Linking up with Mar, Cynthia and Court 
as well as Heather and Clare!

Have a great weekend!

Comments

  1. Alanna @ Madeleines & MarathonsAugust 21, 2015 at 4:28 AM

    That would be so awesome if the Olympics were ever in Pittsburgh! My husband actually went to Pitt for his undergrad so I'm very familiar with their rivalry with Penn State. I can't believe that fall is just around the corner. Where did summer go?!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gretchen BraunAugust 23, 2015 at 2:01 PM

      I know what you mean..it seems like summer just started (but then again I'm ready for some cooler weather!)

      Delete
  2. LesleyAugust 21, 2015 at 5:26 AM

    It's fun watching the Olympics, and at least they'll be what, one time zone ahead of me? It was rough waking up early to watch the marathon races in 2012.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gretchen BraunAugust 23, 2015 at 2:02 PM

      YES!! I'm really excited that I can watch most events and not have to stay up late or wake up early. Next winter Olympics will be rough, but I'll deal with it.

      Delete
  3. Fairytales and FitnessAugust 21, 2015 at 6:01 AM

    I too am excite for the election! I've been watching the primary debates and can't wait to learn more about all the candidates!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gretchen BraunAugust 23, 2015 at 2:02 PM

      That's great! I need to do more research, but it's been interesting so far!

      Delete
  4. UnknownAugust 21, 2015 at 6:21 AM

    I LOVE the Olympics! I'm always so sad when they're over. My sisters went to Penn State, so a common saying in our house was, "Pitt is s**t! Ha! YES to SeaWheeze! Mark your calendar for Sept. 16 when registration opens! I have been watching the 2015 recap video, and I am just dying to get in to next year's race. Fingers crossed for both of us!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gretchen BraunAugust 23, 2015 at 2:03 PM

      I've heard that saying as well! I've also heard that people only go to Pitt when they get rejected from Penn State ;) I definitely have that date marked down!

      Delete
  5. Jessie MAugust 21, 2015 at 6:55 AM

    Love biking! And live in Pittsburgh. Double woot!

    Since it sounds like you're still getting used to riding I would recommend some of the downtown trails, they connect fairly easily, but you can pick up at the Point, which requires riding across the sidewalk of the Ft.Duq bridge, or the Northshore near Heinz Field & the steps by the Ft. Duquesne bridge, this will take you down the Ohio to the old penitentiary, at least that's what I think it is. I would say 10 miles round trip if you start at the point & head to the finish. Paved the whole way, with 0 vehicle traffic.

    I also like the Jail trail which connects to the Nothshore trail, or SS, Riverfront trail, you can head towards the Waterfront, or you can head towards Station Square, that will connect you eventually to the Ft. Pitt bridge, to the Point & you can head to the Northshore trail.

    Finally, North Park. The lake loop has a bike lane! Nice 5 mile loop, easy parking, friendly people. Lots to love. Not too many hills. It's a nice place to just enjoy a ride.

    Let me know if you need more options. I tried to stay away from road rides since it sounds like you may still be getting used to riding. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gretchen BraunAugust 23, 2015 at 2:04 PM

      Thanks so much for all the suggestions! I definitely have to ride at North Park. I run there a lot..now I just need to bike! The jail trail is also a great option. I'll be contacting you for more ideas for sure! Thanks again Jessie :)

      Delete
  6. NicholeAugust 21, 2015 at 7:49 AM

    I'd be in heaven if the Olympics were in Pittsburgh. That would be awesome. I'm excited about the new Star Wars movie (and even more excited about the recently announced theme park via Disney)! I don't really care for presidential election years other than informing myself and making my own decision, of course... Since the rise of social media it just tends to bring out the worst in people and I can't stand all the drama. During the last election I chopped off probably half of my Facebook friends list. People just need to agree to disagree and not resort to blatant hateful mudslinging.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gretchen BraunAugust 23, 2015 at 2:06 PM

      I know what you mean..that's why I try to be informed but don't really discuss my opinion on social media. I hate when people bring out that side so I just avoid it as much as possible. I also de-friended a lot of people :)

      Delete
  7. UnknownAugust 21, 2015 at 9:05 AM

    My gold star for the week is that I've eaten salad three times and one was even for breakfast! Now I'm good for a solid month of back to eating chocolate and Doritos.

    ReplyDelete
  8. UnknownAugust 21, 2015 at 9:18 AM

    Good luck on your race tomorrow! Enjoy those Beer-A-Ritas!!! <3

    ReplyDelete
  9. Kristen @ See You In A PorridgeAugust 21, 2015 at 9:24 AM

    oh my gosh @ jar jar haha yeah my husband HATES him, don't know why. I think he's funny!

    ReplyDelete
  10. AnonymousAugust 21, 2015 at 11:25 AM

    I'm looking forward to the Olympics as well--the best time to watch TV in my opinion!

    ReplyDelete
  11. Gina DailyAugust 21, 2015 at 12:32 PM

    So many things to discuss Gretchen! 1- Jar Jar is definitely my LEAST favorite character! (But my kids like him so you're not totally alone.) 2- There's no age limit to liking 1D. And if someone tries to tell you you're too old for them just say, "Nobody's Gonna Drag Me Down!!" because those are words to live by. 3- The TJ drink sounds amazing! I have their hazelnut creamer so I'll have to get the chai tea mix (I've had it before, just don't have any on hand) and try that combo!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gretchen BraunAugust 23, 2015 at 2:08 PM

      I can't believe you hate Jar Jar! I'm so disappointed Gina!! At least you share my love of 1D :) Let me know what you think of that drink if you end up trying it!

      Delete
  12. maryedooleyAugust 21, 2015 at 3:50 PM

    Yes! Olympics are so amazing. i get there's controversy and issues where they take place etc etc.... but yeah. i love to watch :)

    im nervous for this next election. my parents are hardcore one way, and im pretty hardcore the other. we tend to avoid political talk, but i just get so riled up about ignorance and lack of information and media swaying and all the stuff that happens to get people in office. it drives me crazy a little bit.

    my friends went to seawheeze this year and LOVED it! (also, i caught the tail end of the movement on that picture, and then it stopped, and I thought I was going crazy. but then it started again, so phew!)

    www.slowandsteadykandm.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gretchen BraunAugust 23, 2015 at 2:10 PM

      I know exactly what you mean about the Olympics and election. Sometimes it is best to avoid political talk- usually you can't change people's opinions and minds so there's no use starting an argument. Good luck with your parents in the next year! Thanks for stopping by :)

      Delete
  13. MCM MamaAugust 22, 2015 at 5:31 AM

    I just hope the new Star Wars movies are better than some of the newer ones of the old series. I'm neutral on Jar Jar, but my husband could not stand him LOL. Funny to hear that he's the most hated.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gretchen BraunAugust 23, 2015 at 2:11 PM

      Funny to hear that most men hate him...I think he's adorable and silly :)

      Delete
  14. Mar @ Mar on the RunAugust 22, 2015 at 7:28 AM

    I'm still debating whether I'm going to Rio for the Olympics next year. A friend of mine was spearheading organizing. And I grew up in a Pitt household - I remember the old days of the rivalry! I'm excited to see them face off in 2016 :) I'm not a LuLuLemon fan but Seawheeze looks fun!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gretchen BraunAugust 23, 2015 at 2:12 PM

      That's so awesome that you might go! I would love to go, but it would be CRAZY down there I bet. I might not be able to handle it!! Can't wait to see your recaps though if you do end up going :)

      Delete
  15. Rebecca@Running.Food.Baby.August 22, 2015 at 8:32 AM

    I can't wait for the Olympics either! So excited! The summer ones I'm on vacation for - but when it is the Winter Olympics, my classroom generally has the live stream going :-) We had a snow day when we won the hockey gold - we were all huddled watching the TV (staff and a few students are always at the school on snow days here).

    I wish I could run Sea Wheeze - the airfare is just too much for me :-(

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Gretchen BraunAugust 23, 2015 at 2:13 PM

      That's so cool that you can watch at school! I'll definitely have to save up for Sea Wheeze, but it just seems too fun to pass up :)

      Delete
  16. Jess @hellotofitAugust 24, 2015 at 6:42 PM

    YES to "Drag Me Down"! I've been listening to it during workouts.

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Relationship Rules I Broke (and WEDDING PHOTOS!)

Image
Happy Thursday everyone! Today I have a different type of post to share today.  I don't talk about relationships or my dating life much on the blog, but I'm switching it up today!  I got married last Friday, and I thought it would be fun to share some relationship rules that I broke while Dan and I dated. I'll also be sharing some wedding pictures!  We got married at the Butterfly Falls at the Hidden Valley Inn in Belize (more on the Inn in upcoming posts!), and the pictures turned out absolutely amazing.  Since we had a "just the two of us" ceremony, there's not much to talk about the actual wedding.  In lieu of a full post on that, I'll be sharing some background information on our relationship, along with wedding photos and some #ThrowbackThursday pictures.  I hope you enjoy (and I promise- back to running stuff next week!) Guys are immature, so date someone older I've always read in magazines (which, by the way, have the worst datin...
Read more

Review- Group Power

Image
Happy Weekend everyone!  Today, I'll be doing a review of another group exercise I do at my gym called Group Power !  Let's get right into it. First off, the description in our program guide is "This 60-minute barbell program strengthens all your major muscles in an inspiring, motivating group environment with simple, athletic movements such as squats, lunges, presses and curls." I don't exactly look like this when I'm curling..but you get the idea! Let me tell you, this is one intense workout!  For the entire 60 minutes, we're constantly moving and lifting and by the end I'm a pool of sweat!  We work out all the major muscle groups - Legs, Chest, Triceps, Biceps, Glutes, Shoulders, and Core with light to moderate weights.  We also use a step to do exercises like chest presses and split squats. For each song, we focus on one muscle group, and do a variety of exercises with lots of repetitions, set to the beat of the music.  The tempo of the ...
Read more

Top Five Friday #46

Image
Happy Friday everyone!  Today I have a beefed up Top Five post for you all.  I feel like I've been skimping on these posts lately, so I made sure that this one is packed full of all my favorite products, some recent outfits, new songs, and TV Shows. I've got it all today, and I hope this makes up for the past few weeks!  As I mentioned yesterday, Dan and I finally got our offer accepted on a house, so the past few weeks have been really hectic.  Now that all of our applications and inspections are done, it should (hopefully) be smooth sailing from here!  Wish us luck, and now let's get to the favorites! Empty Products In the past, I've dedicated entire blog posts to reviews on empty products (you can see them here ).  I know that some of you don't like beauty-focused posts, so instead of completely nixing these reviews, I wanted to incorporate them into my favorites! I'm going through lots of products now that I'm on a spending freeze, so I thought...
Read more