On Wednesdays, We Work Out: Wall Squats

13. March 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: Fitness · Tags: , , , , ,

Hello, hello.  Today, I’m introducing you to wall squats.  If you don’t have a medicine ball, you can do it without, so no worries.  This is one of those workouts that looks so easy until you actually do it.  Don’t be fooled.

Grab a medicine ball and put it behind you, where it’s supporting the curve in your lower back.  Slowly lower yourself until you feel like you’re sitting in a chair, only with nothing under you.  (If you don’t have a medicine ball, just put your back against the wall itself.)  Set a timer for 30 seconds to 1 minute and hold that position for that amount of time.  Don’t let your knees go over your toes and go far enough down where you can feel the burn in your hamstrings.

wall squats

 You should use these in conjunction with other leg workouts.  Typically I will do lunges, sumo squats, and then wall squats in a set.  I do 1 minute, 3 times, and I usually can’t walk very well afterward.

Until next time,

Jenn

500 LIKES GIVEAWAY!

11. March 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: Contests, Events, Love & Fashion · Tags: , , , , , ,

HI!  Thanks to everyone for LIKING Glitter & Garb on Facebook!  We passed the 500 mark, which means GIVEAWAY time!  

There are 3 choices if you win!  The first two are from Modocat.com.  (Sidenote:  There is a link to modocat.com on the right-hand side of the blog.  If you guys want to buy anything from the store, enter GLITTER&GARB as a promotional code to receive discounts on all merchandise!  Sweet, right?) 

So here are the giveaways:

aztec necklace

This multicolored Aztec necklace,

gold infinity ring

and this gold infinity ring, double-fingered. 

The third option is a gift card to Finish Line for $20, so guys, there is something for you, too. 

So here’s the scoop on how to win!  Once I post this link to Facebook, comment on it with “Enter to win” and I will put your name in a drawing.  I will announce the winner this Friday, March 15th.  The winner will be announced via Facebook and will be given the gift of his or her choice.  You will have 48 hours to claim from the time of the post.

Good luck!

Jenn 

On Wednesdays, We Work Out: Overheads

07. March 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: Fitness · Tags: , , , , ,

Ready to work your triceps?!  I hope so, because we’re doing overheads today!  These are great if you have a little extra “hello” in your wave. ;)

Grab a weight that feels comfortable holding with two hands.  I use a 20lb dumbbell.  Your grip may vary to your taste, but I hold mine at one of the ends, one hand under the other, kind of like I’m trying to catch a football.

DSCN1042

Keep your arms next to your ears with your elbows bent, while holding the dumbbell behind your head.  DSCN1044

Push the dumbbell up slowly, keeping your arms at your ears.  Don’t let them go behind your head!DSCN1043

Push through, all the way to the top.  Then drop the dumbbell back down slowly, and repeat.  With other upper body workouts, I do 3 sets of 12.  If you are starting with a lower weight, try pushing to 15.

Say “goodbye” to your extra “hello” and get those arms in shape!

Until next time,

Jenn

PIN IT:

overheads  Stay updated!  Like Glitter & Garb on Facebook and Follow on Twitter!

Crazy Town: Circus Clown

04. March 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: Crazy Town, Life · Tags: , , ,

About 3 weeks ago, I received an e-mail from my company’s Customer Service Department stating “We received a complaint today that a customer tried to return a pair of jeans and he was sent away unhappy.  Also, manager Andrew was very rude to him.  Please address.”

Ummmm, 1.  I was there all day and never saw this supposed customer.  2.  I have three males on my payroll.  None of them were working that day and none of them are named Andrew.  I was given this customer’s phone number, so without hesitation, I called to see what drugs he was taking to make up imaginary scenarios in my store.  I’m sort of kidding.

I called him, he answered.  I told him I was informed that he had an unsatisfactory experience in my store, and I wanted to see what I could do.  He replied with “Oh, I never went into the store.  I called customer service to get permission to return some jeans.”  BULL SH… “Oh.  I was under the impression you spoke to someone here today.  You can bring them in later and I’ll exchange them out for you.”  He was really chipper and said “Oh really? Great, because I work in the circus and I never even wore these jeans, but I lost the receipt.  All I want is a different pair.  See you tonight!”  I emailed all of my respective bosses and assured them this was taken care of.  I also added that he was a liar. And circus boy never showed up that night.

So, I worked for a week, went to LA for a week, and then went back to work.  A short blonde guy walked up to the register on Saturday and put a pair of jeans on the counter.  “Hi.  I’m Johnny.  I spoke to your District Director a few weeks ago and they approved me to return these jeans.”  “Hi.  I’m Jenn.  I’m the one you spoke to, I think.  You work in the circus and need to exchange these, right?”  “Oh, yeah.  But I also talked to your head district director.”  That position doesn’t exist, but okay.  I picked up the jeans and, low and behold, the entire waistband was torn off, the bottom of the jeans were dirty, and the back pocket was torn.  I jokingly said, “Wow, did the circus tiger get you?”  He said, “Oh no, that just happened when I went to wear them for the first time.”  PANTS ON FIRE.  Jeans don’t just magically tear away from the waistband with giant slash marks all over them. Thanks a lot, Customer Service.

I told Johnny to grab another pair to exchange them out and let him know the price he was working with.  His mangled jeans were on clearance for $30 or so.  He grabbed a pair of regular priced jeans and brought them to me.  When I told him he would owe $24, he was confused about the exchange.  They don’t teach mathematics in clown school, apparently.

After finding the exact pair of jeans he was returning, he left happy.  I sent a text to my district manager that said “Circus clown came.  He said he talked to you.  He’s happy.”  He responded with “He never talked to me.  Stories…”  Of course he didn’t.  Just like he never came in the store and talked to imaginary Andrew, the non-existent manager.  And just like he didn’t wear the jeans that were completely trashed.  Nobody noticed this during the purchase?  Doubt it.

ecard 2

Tell the truth, friends!  And don’t join the circus.

Xo,

Jenn

On Wednesdays, We Work Out: Mountain Climbers

28. February 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: Fitness · Tags: , , , , , , , ,

After getting back into my normal workout routine, I decided to start with a mix of cardio workouts.  I wanted my muscles to loosen up before I started lifting heavy weights or targeting certain areas.  I love cardio.  So, after a mile run and off and on sprints for the next two miles, I decided to throw in some mountain climbers.

Here is a step-by-step of how these are done.  Keep in mind that this should be a continuous motion.  It’s almost equivalent to being in a push up position and moving your legs like you’re running, except you don’t go anywhere.

DSCN1026DSCN1027 DSCN1028

If you look closely, the first step consists of being in a push-up position with one leg bent underneath you.  The second step is the switching of your feet, and by the third step you should be back in your push-up position with your opposite leg forward.

I set a timer for 30 seconds and I go as fast as I can without losing form.  When it’s over, I rest for another 30 seconds and then do them again.  Typically, I do 3-5 sets of them, depending on what I’m mixing them in with.  Don’t underestimate these!  As with everything else, if they’re done correctly, you’ll feel them over the next two days.  Good luck and remember to breathe!

Keep it healthy,

Jenn

Pin it:mountain climbers copy

Stay updated!  LIKE Glitter & Garb on Facebook and Follow Me on Twitter!

While in La La Land

26. February 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: Events, Life, Love & Fashion, Travel · Tags: , , ,

Hi friends!

While packing for my work week in LA, I decided to bring everything I own for when I had spare time to update the blog in close-to-real-time.  I tipped the guy at the airport a little extra and he sneaked my laptop into my overweight suitcase. But spare time? Yeah right.  I didn’t even have enough time to stalk through Instagram, let alone write a blog.

So, between the meetings and socializing and learning and interview-ish conversations, some pretty cool things went down.

We had a little secret excursion that brought us to the set of America’s Next Top Model: Season 20.  UM, YES.  This season, it’s guys and girls, which should prove to be an interesting twist on the usually all-female show.  We were told we may be on the show as audience members, so I was happy I took the time to make myself cute prior to leaving my room.  Mother Nature won again.  It was pouring.  The show went on anyway, and it was unreal.  Let me say this: Vertical Runway Show.  We were allowed to take photos, but no videos, so here are some sneaks until the real show comes out!

blog1

On Set!

blog2

My view.

blog3

The first models to go strutting down the vertical runway. Really? That’s terrifying.

blog4

I was getting really nervous for them here: taking the plunge off the side of the building.

blog6

How?

blog8

Shaky starts wrecked my nerves.

blog9

blog91

Work. It. Out!

I had to make sure we weren’t on the set of “Fear Factor,” because it was pretty serious.  Keep in mind, it was cold and raining, on top of having to walk down the side of a building on a runner.  So, look for me doing “ooh’s” and “aaahhh’s” in the crowd!

I also attended a Gala/Awards Show while I was there.  I never have to get fancied up for anything, so I was so into it!  And here’s what I wore:

blog92

Nude Sequined Dress by: Sherri Hill
Nude Suede Shoes by: Gianni Bini
Nude Clutch: Aldo

I don’t think I’d last through the Oscars.

I had a great week away, but I’m happy to be on Eastern time and sleeping in my own bed.

See you Wednesday,

Jenn

Make a Drink, Make it Pink

14. February 2013 · 1 comment · Categories: Events, I Can Do That, Life · Tags: , , , ,

The cool thing about Valentine’s Day is… wait.  What I meant to say was… the cool thing about drinking is that you don’t have to have a significant other to enjoy it!   The truth is, I think Valentine’s Day is lame.  I’ve never celebrated it like normal girls with boyfriends do.  I don’t ask for flowers (because I’ll kill them) or chocolate (because I’ll eat the entire box in one sitting) or jewelry (because if it’s expensive, I’ll lose it).  I like buying things for myself.  I feel accomplished and I know I won’t have to secretly return it and then come up with a lie about why I don’t have it anymore.  It’s less stressful that way. 

And Valentine’s Day is so stressful.  Not for me, of course.  But for people who are trying to buy the perfect gift and book the perfect reservation for their loved one.  Or for the people who don’t have a significant other and are convinced they will be forever alone. 

Relax, guys.  It’s not that serious. 

I have the perfect solution to your Valentine’s Day woes.  It won’t get you the greatest gift or make you the best boyfriend or girlfriend ever, but it’ll get you tipsy enough to forget about it!  ;)  

Drink #1: Sweet, but tart and completely delicious. 

IMG_3870

Muddle strawberries in the bottom of a glass.   IMG_3875

Use Pinnacle Strawberry Kiwi.  Honestly, SO good.  Add a splash of sprite and fill the rest with lemonade. (I used Crystal Light).  To make this drink pink, use pink lemonade.   IMG_3887

I garnished it with an orange to fancy it up a little.  This one is amazing and I can drink multiples of them without having a sugar overload.  It might be because after a few I don’t notice it, but who cares?

Drink #2:  Think of Funfetti cake in drink form.  Yeah.  I know. 

I made a version of this on NYE and wrote about it, but this time I gave it a little twist. 

vday4

You will need: Pinnacle Cake Vodka (YUM), Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur, Silk Almond Milk, Rose’s Grenadine, and SPRINKLES.  

Mix everything except the sprinkles into a shaker.  I went heavy on the vodka and used about equal parts of the Godiva and the Silk.  Do not use more than a couple drops of grenadine. 

vday6Then, I made it prissy and added sprinkles. 

vday5vday2

Ready for a taste test! vday1

A little day drinking never hurt anyone…  vday3

Pretty excited about this one…  vday8Delightful and lovely.

So whip up one of these and take a deep breath. 

Cheers!

Jenn

On Wednesdays, We Work Out: Bench Squats

13. February 2013 · 1 comment · Categories: Fitness · Tags: , , , ,

I’m officially back in the workout game after a mysterious ankle injury last week.  By mysterious, I mean it literally came out of nowhere.  Swelling, bruising, unable to bear weight, the whole 9 yards just crept up on me with no warning.  Two days later, nothing.  The pain, the swelling, and the purple bruise surrounding my achilles and my ankle just disappeared overnight.  It was the strangest thing.

When it comes to injuries, remember to R.I.C.E!  Rest.  Ice.  Compression.  Elevation.  I absolutely detest icing any part of my body because the pain of the cold is almost worse than the pain of the injury, but I force myself to get over it and cringe in the meantime.

So now that I’m back to normal, it’s back to working my favorite body parts: my legs and my butt.

If you’ve never done a bench squat, I highly recommend it.

DSCN0747

Grab two dumbbells.  I use 15 lbs, but if you’re just starting, go lighter.  Put one foot up on a bench, table, chair; anything that is stable.

DSCN0749Slowly squat down and stand back up.  Stay conscious of your front leg!  You don’t want your knee to go over your toe as you’re squatting.  I do 3 sets of 12 (on both legs!) mixed in with other lower body workouts.  If you’re using lighter weight, try 15.  If you can do more than 15 reps, you need heavier weight.  These are not easy and you will definitely feel them during your first set if they’re done correctly.

If you’re wearing a tiny dress tomorrow, you’re welcome.

Xo,

Jenn

LIKE Glitter & Garb on Facebook and Follow on Twitter! 

PIN IT:

bench squats

 

Nails: A Different Kind of Ombre

12. February 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: I Can Do That, Love & Fashion, Tips · Tags: , , , , , ,

 

I suppose I’ll dedicate this week to Valentine’s Day-inspired fun.  If you remember from last year, I’m not a huge fan of the Hallmark holiday.  However, anything that invokes explosions of pink is something I can’t steer away from, so here we are!  I decided to try a different kind of ombre nail-do.  I chose 3 colors, all from Essie, and all in the pink/red family.

IMG_3909 IMG_3908

Then I got a paper plate and starting mapping out what I wanted to do.  The goal was to start with the light “mod square” and blend each nail until I reached “russian roulette” red.  I didn’t want to see a grave difference between each color, so I mixed them.

IMG_3912

“Mod square” on the first finger.  “Mod square” and a dab “Super bossa nova” on the second.  “Super bossa nova” on the third.  “Super bossa nova” with a dab of “Russian roulette” on the fourth.  “Russian roulette” on the fifth.

IMG_3927

Perfectly pink and lovely for the week.

Xo,

Jenn

Drunk Gummy Bears

08. February 2013 · Write a comment · Categories: I Can Do That · Tags: , , , , ,

If you like vodka and if you like gummy bears, this one is for you.

I got bored this week and decided to try something new.  With gummy bears being my favorite candy and vodka being my liquor of choice, I decided to put them together to create a drunken snack.  I researched a few different ways to go about doing so.  My trial run turned out pretty tasty.

IMG_3884

I used HARIBO gold bears because they’re the best brand of gummy bears.  I wasn’t going to use my Ketel One on a test situation, so I used 360 Eco-friendly vodka… still good, just not as pricey.

IMG_3883

Dump the gummies into a container.  I used a mason jar because I think they’re cute.

IMG_3882

Pour in vodka until the gummies are submerged.  The idea is to let them soak up the vodka over a few days.  If you put too much vodka, they will take forever.  Put them in the refrigerator and let them sit.  I shook mine up once or twice a day because they started sticking together and the vodka was sitting on the bottom of the jar.  I could have afforded to use a little less vodka.  They took 4 days to soak.

IMG_3897

They grow!  I noticed when I went to taste test.  This one is on top of the mason jar lid.

IMG_3898

Once they’ve absorbed all of the vodka, they’re ready!  Make sure you keep them chilled!  Trust me, they’re not as good when they’re lukewarm.  Eat them, serve them, put them in a drink…whatever.  The texture is mushy on the outside and more gummy on the inside.  They also smell amazing!  They’re really strong, but they’re also really good!

Until next time,

Jenn

« Older articles
Newer articles »