Friday Five: 5 Things I’m Loving Lately

Happy Friday! I’m trying to get my mind around the fact that it’s mid-May already. This year is flying by! I’m planning for some races and events later in the year but haven’t booked any flights yet. I’m feeling more hopeful that we’ll get to have some adventures in the back half of the year. Aren’t you?

5 Things I’m Loving Lately

5:38 AM view from my window!

Longer Days. It’s been bright here from 5:30 AM to almost 8 AM and I’m not complaining. There’s something about longer daylight hours that makes me feel like I have more opportunities to enjoy each day.

Progress! The CDC announced that vaccinated people don’t have to wear masks outside and in most indoor situations. I hope that will encourage more people to get vaccinated. I’m still a bit anxious about indoor dining and the gym without a mask. I really hope that we’re on the other side of the worst of the pandemic. I’m going to keep wearing my mask in stores and the gym for a while, I think. How about you?

Coffee! I always love my coffee. I’ve been enjoying some great blends from Humblemaker (get 35% off your first order with this link) and BLK and Bold. My friends from Nutpods sent me a variety pack of their Almond + Coconut Creamers to enjoy. I’m a big fan of these and we go way back. I supported their Kickstarter in 2015 when they were out to make “a dairy-free, delicious substitute for half & half that was made with almonds and coconuts, clean ingredients and unsweetened for your sweet and savory recipes and coffee/tea.” They’ve come a long way with flavors and formulations. The original, unsweetened is still my favorite. It makes my coffee so creamy and rich! They have a bunch of new flavors and an Oat Creamer now, too!

The Return of Races and In Person Events! Last weekend I ran a 10 mile race that was hilly as F. It was a blast. This weekend, I’m going to an outdoor fitness event and a foodie bike tour. I’m so excited to be able to safely race and have formal meet ups with groups. I’ve missed the opportunity to try new things, to see friends and to meet new people! That said, I’m still happy to be able to participate in some things virtually to connect with friends in other cities and I hope that will continue.

Going Back to the Gym. I was really anxious about going back to the gym, but it’s been going well. I’m really enjoying being able to get back to strength training with Bianca. After two weeks, I’ve already noticed improved strength and the return of some muscle tone in my arms. My 10lb weights were not really cutting it! I also went back to Lakeview Athletic Club. I got a free month from A Sweat Life, so I figured if I wasn’t comfortable, I wouldn’t be losing anything. It’s a huge gym and so far, there have only been a handful of people there when I’ve gone. I haven’t done an indoor group class yet, but I’ve been comfortable with the cardio and strength areas.

That’s all from here! What are you loving lately? Please tell me in the comments!

I’m linking up with DarleneMichelleReneeJenn and Zenaida for Fit Five Friday. Join us!

Have a great weekend!

PS. Don’t forget my great giveaways!