Hi guys! I know you’re probably a little confused as to why I’m posting here on a (late) Friday.
Well, I follow a lot of bloggers who have “Friday Favorites” or “Top Posts from the Month” recaps, and since it’s the end of April and the day of Julie’s Best of the Blogs link-up (I always miss it—and almost did it again!), I thought I’d join in this time.
That means blogging on Fridays will be an occasional thing—mostly when the end (or almost-end) of the month falls on Friday or the weekend. I think it will be a fun way to refresh some recent content, reflect on my own successes and happenings, and discover some new blogs along the way.
I may change up the format, but today I’m just recapping April’s most popular posts (based on page views), some things I’m loving, and sharing a little “link love” from other bloggers.
Top 5 Posts
How I Became A Positive Person
What I Ate—An Attempt to Scale Back the Carbs
World Health Day 2016 – Healthy Hacks for the 9-5 Life
Plus my own honorable mention since Mother’s Day is quickly approaching!
30 Recipes for the Most Epic Mother’s Day Brunch
Things I’m Loving
Vanilla Espresso Barney Butter
I stumbled upon this recently at Home Goods, and it was love at first bite. I’ve eaten it directly from the jar as well as spread onto an English muffin. So dreamy!
Brainstorming ideas for my blog redesign
I never mentioned it before, but I am working with another blogger who reached out to me as she launched a new design business. We’re not on a timeline, but I am excited to see what we come up with together!
Flowery Target Flip Flops
These were only ~$3, and I just love the fun flower pattern. They were perfect for walking down to the beach, although they were a little flimsy for the rocky driveway to the beach house.
BODYPUMP
I’ve been taking classes twice a week (usually—sometimes I take boot camp or Insanity instead), and I feel like I’m finally making some noticeable progress. No, I’m not ripped like Becky, but I do feel stronger and have been able to increase my squats and back weights. Baby steps, right? Plus it’s a lot more fun now that I’ve gotten to know a couple people in class.
Bazooka’s current stage
Oh, don’t get me wrong—the toddler tantrums are STRONG and I’m pretty sure he’s hit the “terrible twos” early, but I love how curious and funny this child is. He’s learning more words, he’s making the funniest faces and expressions, and he’s a ball of endless energy that makes life so much more fulfilling. There are difficult days, but I’m enjoying watching him grow into his own person.
Link Love
The Whole 30 – A Dietician Review // Pretty Little Grub
Well-written—and, while I’ve not tried Whole30 myself, I tend to agree with her conclusions.
What You Wish You Knew Before Baby // PBFingers
This was such a beautiful round-up. I definitely had a few tears in my eyes as I read through.
Advising vs. Critiquing // Loved and Worthy of Love
As somebody who easily blurs the line between “advice” and “criticism,” I appreciate this post. This goes far beyond food and diets, too.
Blogger’s Guilt // Fueled By LOLZ
Yes. Unless your blog is your actual job, it’s just for fun. Take a break if you need it. Go on vacation and unplug. But, by all means, do not feel guilty!
Praying For What We Do Not Want // Carla Birnberg
Such a fantastic way of thinking. Some anxieties are warranted, but at the end of the day, persistent worry is only going to bring us down.
And that’s all she wrote. Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!
[linking up with Heather for Friday Favorites and Julie for Best of the Blogs]
- What is something you accomplished in April?
- Do you have big plans for May (or just for the weekend)? Tell me about ‘em!
I love that vanilla espresso almond butter!! And those flip flops are so cute. Body pump seems like a lot of fun! I want to try that and boxing over the summer. May marks the start of my summer! May 13 I am done with finals which I am super excited about. And May 6th is my momma’s birthday 🙂
Boxing sounds fun! Happy early birthday to your momma (my mom’s is in June). I bet you’re more than ready for summer!
I love to get connected with the new design blogger. How expensive is it?
My favorite post from this month was your Ode to the Mom Bod. It was wonderfully written. Have a great weekend 🙂
Thanks, Ellie-that means a lot.
The designer is Melissa (her blog is freeingimperfections.com but her design website is beesweetphotographyanddesign.com. Her prices are very reasonable – and there are some a la carter options if you don’t need a complete redesign.
Oh, and congrats on going self-hosted! 😉
Ummm, that almond butter sounds AMAAAAAAAZING! I’ve seen it on iHerb but it’s so expensive that I’ve hesitated to buy it, however, I think I just need to do it! 😛
Two is such a fun but frustrating age – they hit the tantrums but they also start to develop their own personality and become really, really funny – so I guess you have to take the good with the bad 😉 Luckily two year old tantrums don’t tend to last all that long!
I’m crossing my fingers the “terrible twos” are short lived!
Yes, the almond butter is pricey which is why I’ve never bought it until now. It was discounted! You should go for it anyway, though – it’s worth the splurge!
Thank you for sharing. I can relate to the advising vs critiquing post as well.
That is awesome about the designing. Good luck and I can’t wait to see how it goes!
Thank you! I’m excited to see the results. Glad you enjoyed some of the other link love, too.
Love this idea. I agree with Ellie- your Mom Bod post was fabulous!
Thanks, Kate. It was one of my favorites, too. <3
Thank you so much for linking up and for the shout out! I really appreciate it! I’m going to go check out some of your posts- they look fabulous! Tweeted for you!
Thanks for tweeting. I’m looking forward to participating in the future.
Ooh, you’re making me want to go do Body Pump again. I loved all of your top posts that you shared. Have you tried the other Barney Butters? My favorite was the chocolate coconut!
I haven’t had that one but it sounds amazing! Body Pump has quickly become my favorite class 🙂
I recently discovered barney butter – a game changer!!
Yes it is! I need to round up all the other flavors.