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IN: Friday Favorites, Lifestyle

Friday Favorites: Aussie Iced Lattes, Lily & The Octopus, Hot Yoga and more

September 9, 2016 By Melanie 2 Comments

coconutwater2

Hello Friday, it’s so good to see you again. Thanks to Labor Day, this week has really flown by and I can now look forward to a fun filled weekend ahead of me! It’s my first year attending a few New York Fashion Week events and I couldn’t be more excited. It’s something that I’ve dreamed of ever since I was old enough to start watching Sex & The City… so it’s all a little surreal that I’m actually living here and able to witness some of the fashionable chaos with my own eyes. Since NYFW is an exclusive event, I unfortunately am not invited to the bigger shows like Rodarte, Marchesa or Alexander Wang (I diieee) but it’s going to be super fun nonetheless! 

Anyway, enough about NYFW since it’s not making it to this particular post on my “Friday Favorites” – which is really just a roundup of a few of my favorite things that I discovered or experienced within the past week. Maybe Fashion Week will make it to the list next week after I see if it’s all that it’s cracked up to be. 😉

Without further ado, I present to you a few things that I’m loving this week. Enjoy!

Aussie Iced Lattesaussieicedlattebluestonelane_location-header2_dumbo-1-1600x600

When MindBodyGreen posted about Bluestone Lane opening up a coffee shop in Dumbo (my hood), I knew I had to check it out. Bay had been talking about this magical concoction called ‘Aussie Iced Lattes’ forever and I had yet to try one, so I figured Monday was the perfect opportunity. The cafe is super adorable – think flamingo print walls, hanging plants and a beautiful coffee bar. While I chowed down on avocado toast, Bay decided to try vegemite on toast for the first time. Let’s just say it’s definitely not my cup of tea. haha 

The Aussie Iced Lattes however were right up my alley. It’s a lot like an affogato but much, much bigger… made with copious amounts of vanilla ice cream, chilled espresso, ice and cinnamon. Healthy? Absolutely not. Delicious? Absolutely YES. I’m obsessed. 

Lily & The Octopuslily-and-the-octopus

If you’ve been following me on Instagram I’m sure you’re aware that I’m kind of a huge dog lover. I’ll admit that sometimes that love borders ‘crazy dog lady’ status, but I wear that title with pride. So it should be no surprise that when I was gifted a book about a man and his Dachshund, Lily, I was hooked. It was simultaneously heartwarming and heartbreaking… and I was instantly reminded of my first dog, Brownie, who passed away a little over 3 years ago. I don’t want to give too much away so I’ll just copy the description from Amazon: Lily and the Octopus reminds us how it feels to love fiercely, how difficult it can be to let go, and how the fight for those we love is the greatest fight of all. 

Fair warning – I was up until 2AM reading this book and cried many tears. Get the tissues ready. 

Hot Yoga 

Y7 Studio

I recently signed up for ClassPass and it’s been a dream. I went to Prana Power Yoga earlier this week for an hour hot yoga session and it was so lovely. It’s not quite Bikram status as the room is heated to 90 degrees instead of 105. The flow was slow and gentle, which I really appreciated as it gave my muscles time to open up and really feel the depth of each pose. I’m starting to love how hot yoga makes me feel, especially after trying the “We Flow Hard” Vinyasa class at y7 studio a couple weeks ago. You get super sweaty but the end result is totally worth it. Just be sure to properly hydrate beforehand and bring a water bottle with you. 

Hiking With Ninanina-and-inina-outside

This past weekend, Bay and I traveled with Nina to Beacon, NY – which is just a little over an hour north of NYC. We spent our time hanging out with good friends, eating delicious food, drinking wine smoothies (yes, that’s a real thing and it’s amazing), and on Sunday we went for a 5 mile hike near the river. This is the first long nature walk that we’ve done with Nina and she was so adorable… she even jumped into the river for a swim! 

Instagram Storiesinstagram-stories

Sorry Snapchat but I 100% choose Instagram Stories as the way to share ephemeral content on the daily. It’s so easy to use, the design is better and so far I’m loving all the stories that I’ve seen on my feed. Keep them coming people! The only thing I wish Insta Stories offered are those lovely facial filters that Snapchat has… but until they do, I’ll just go to Snapchat to create an image and then post it to Stories. hehe

Keep up with what I’m doing on the daily, including events that I’ll be attending this weekend (NYFW and Wanderlust Festival) on my Instagram Story! If there’s anything in particular you’d like to see me post more of on Stories please let me know. 😄 

 

That’s it for this week! Hope you all have the best weekend.

hahandlips-cutout-small

Filed Under: Friday Favorites, Lifestyle

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Sarah @ The Blonde Giraffe says

    September 9, 2016 at 10:26 pm

    Wine smoothies?!! Those sound amazing!! I miss class pass!! Now that I have a child, I only go where the childcare is 🙁

    Reply
    • Melanie says

      September 27, 2016 at 2:04 am

      Wine smoothies are so yummy!! Maybe when he’s old enough for school you’ll be able to rejoin Classpass and take the day classes. 🙂

      Reply

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Hi and welcome to Headstands & Heels! I’m Melanie — a Digital Strategist turned Wellness Entrepreneur, certified yoga instructor (RYT 200), dog mama, and content creator based in Denver. I hope to encourage others to follow their dreams and cultivate a healthy, balanced lifestyle filled with mindfulness and positivity. 💕 Send me a note at: mel@headstandsandheels.com

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#QNPartner Cozy season is in full swing and it’s
#QNPartner Cozy season is in full swing and it’s the perfect opportunity to embrace a softer version of wellness that allows us to slow down and savor this busy time of year. Here are a few things I’m personally doing that I think you’ll love too:

✨Savor my coffee outdoors near the fire
✨Opt for more home cooked meals that lean into warming, fall flavors
✨Add cozy, self-care elements to my home like non-toxic candles and @quiltednorthern toilet paper. It’s our go to because it’s crafted with  3 layers for maximum comfort and ultimate softness.
✨Make time for cozy hobbies instead of doomscrolling or binge watching tv

What are some of your favorite ways to practice #selfcare and take care of yourself during cozy season?
 
Check out this link for the coziest Quilted Northern® products. https://lnks.co/vP6hntC 

#softwellness #softgirlera #cozyseason #intentionalliving #selfcaretips #wellnessrituals

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And if you still think it’s too early to get in the holiday spirit, don’t blame me… blame Starbucks for releasing their holiday flavors today 😉

All jokes aside, I’m personally really ready for all the fun Christmas crafts, holiday parties, and sharing old (and starting new!) traditions with my daughter for the first time

Inside this “kit” you’ll find:
✨a seasonal affirmation & journal prompt 
✨holiday cheer - acts of kindness bingo 
✨diy Christmas decor ideas 
✨festive cocktails for hosting 
✨holiday date ideas 
✨holiday party inspo to bring friends together
✨a very merry bucket list 
✨finding your perfect Christmas mug 
✨and an important reminder 

Be sure to save and spread the joy! 🥰 

And if you’re willing to share, I’d love to know what YOUR favorite holiday traditions or activities are! 

#christmastime #holidayspirit #cozychristmas #holidayseason #holidaybucketlist

One of the most difficult parts of being a new mom
One of the most difficult parts of being a new mom has been learning how to let go of the need to constantly be “productive”

and as a chronic overachiever, I’ve struggled a lot with tying self-worth to productivity. Which means accepting that my goals might take more of a backseat right now has been extra challenging

one thing that has helped shift my mindset was acknowledging that slowing down does NOT mean that I’m failing. In fact, days or even seasons of slowness are an important part of life and crucial for our overall physical and emotional wellbeing

Being able to reframe the classic thought pattern of “I did nothing today” to one of these more positive phrases is a helpful way to place the emphasis on self-care and acknowledge that there is joy to be found in slowing down 

if this post finds you, I hope it serves as a helpful validation that sometimes ✨rest✨ is truly the most important thing you can do for yourself 💕

#romanticizeyourlife #intentionaliving #softwellness #softgirlera #slowliving #healthylifestyle

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GIVE YOURSELF A RELEASE
when your body just needs to let go of any pent up tension, stress or anxiety — movement and allowing yourself to FEEL all of the emotions can be the best medicine

GROUND YOURSELF IN THE PRESENT
after releasing the feelings and energy, try a few grounding practices to reorient your nervous system and come back to the present moment 

ACTIVATE THE RELAXATION RESPONSE
slow down and help your body transition to the parasympathetic nervous system (otherwise known as the “rest & digest” state) with activities like breathwork, yoga, or even a long hug 

GET SUPPORT FROM LOVED ONES
intentionally surround yourself with people who help you regulate your stress vs add to it. The feeling of being safe and supported can’t ever be underestimated 

PRIORITIZE DEEP REST 
at the end of the day, practicing good sleep hygiene and prioritizing rest can be the best thing you do for your mind and body. These restorative moments allow for your nervous system to truly reset and recover 

Be sure to SAVE this post for whenever you may need it this holiday season and share it if you feel like it would be helpful to anyone you know! 💕

#mindfulmoments #cozyvibes #healthyliving #cozyrituals #joyfulliving #hygge #selfcaretips

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I know Nov 1st may seem a little early to start celebrating the Christmas season for some but I always feel like this time of year flies by too fast. So decorating our home early and starting all the fun Christmas baking, crafts and festive activities feels like a special way to make the most of the holidays ❤️

Who else will be spending the weekend decorating? 

#romanticizeyourlife #holidayseason #christmastimeishere #smalljoys

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Halloween isn’t my fav holiday but I do love a themed cozy evening with my favorite person… and it feels even more special these days as new parents. So we decided to have a SPOOKY date complete with homemade pizzas (with ghost shaped mozzarella), blackberry smash cocktails, a candle painting craft, pumpkin ice cream, and a rewatch of “Haunting of Bly Manor” 🖤 

PS: I’m not a big horror movie fan but this show is such a well done metaphor of how grief can haunt you and the tone feels much more gothic romance than classic jump scares 

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A big thank you to our vendors @alythactive, @truvani and @drinkparch for making this an extra special experience! 

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Such a fun way to celebrate spooky season (and a pretty easy family costume if you’re in need of something last minute!) 

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#QNPartner Cozy season is in full swing and it’s #QNPartner Cozy season is in full swing and it’s the perfect opportunity to embrace a softer version of wellness that allows us to slow down and savor this busy time of year. Here are a few things I’m personally doing that I think you’ll love too:

✨Savor my coffee outdoors near the fire
✨Opt for more home cooked meals that lean into warming, fall flavors
✨Add cozy, self-care elements to my home like non-toxic candles and @quiltednorthern toilet paper. It’s our go to because it’s crafted with  3 layers for maximum comfort and ultimate softness.
✨Make time for cozy hobbies instead of doomscrolling or binge watching tv

What are some of your favorite ways to practice #selfcare and take care of yourself during cozy season?
 
Check out this link for the coziest Quilted Northern® products. https://lnks.co/vP6hntC 

#softwellness #softgirlera #cozyseason #intentionalliving #selfcaretips #wellnessrituals
I’m so excited to present the ultimate Cozy Chri I’m so excited to present the ultimate Cozy Christmas Starter Kit to help you make the most of this joyous, festive season! 🎄 

And if you still think it’s too early to get in the holiday spirit, don’t blame me… blame Starbucks for releasing their holiday flavors today 😉

All jokes aside, I’m personally really ready for all the fun Christmas crafts, holiday parties, and sharing old (and starting new!) traditions with my daughter for the first time

Inside this “kit” you’ll find:
✨a seasonal affirmation & journal prompt 
✨holiday cheer - acts of kindness bingo 
✨diy Christmas decor ideas 
✨festive cocktails for hosting 
✨holiday date ideas 
✨holiday party inspo to bring friends together
✨a very merry bucket list 
✨finding your perfect Christmas mug 
✨and an important reminder 

Be sure to save and spread the joy! 🥰 

And if you’re willing to share, I’d love to know what YOUR favorite holiday traditions or activities are! 

#christmastime #holidayspirit #cozychristmas #holidayseason #holidaybucketlist
One of the most difficult parts of being a new mom One of the most difficult parts of being a new mom has been learning how to let go of the need to constantly be “productive”

and as a chronic overachiever, I’ve struggled a lot with tying self-worth to productivity. Which means accepting that my goals might take more of a backseat right now has been extra challenging

one thing that has helped shift my mindset was acknowledging that slowing down does NOT mean that I’m failing. In fact, days or even seasons of slowness are an important part of life and crucial for our overall physical and emotional wellbeing

Being able to reframe the classic thought pattern of “I did nothing today” to one of these more positive phrases is a helpful way to place the emphasis on self-care and acknowledge that there is joy to be found in slowing down 

if this post finds you, I hope it serves as a helpful validation that sometimes ✨rest✨ is truly the most important thing you can do for yourself 💕

#romanticizeyourlife #intentionaliving #softwellness #softgirlera #slowliving #healthylifestyle
As we enter what may feel like the busiest time of As we enter what may feel like the busiest time of year, let this be your guide to ✨resetting your nervous system✨ so that you can help regulate stress and return to a state of calm 

GIVE YOURSELF A RELEASE
when your body just needs to let go of any pent up tension, stress or anxiety — movement and allowing yourself to FEEL all of the emotions can be the best medicine

GROUND YOURSELF IN THE PRESENT
after releasing the feelings and energy, try a few grounding practices to reorient your nervous system and come back to the present moment 

ACTIVATE THE RELAXATION RESPONSE
slow down and help your body transition to the parasympathetic nervous system (otherwise known as the “rest & digest” state) with activities like breathwork, yoga, or even a long hug 

GET SUPPORT FROM LOVED ONES
intentionally surround yourself with people who help you regulate your stress vs add to it. The feeling of being safe and supported can’t ever be underestimated 

PRIORITIZE DEEP REST 
at the end of the day, practicing good sleep hygiene and prioritizing rest can be the best thing you do for your mind and body. These restorative moments allow for your nervous system to truly reset and recover 

Be sure to SAVE this post for whenever you may need it this holiday season and share it if you feel like it would be helpful to anyone you know! 💕

#mindfulmoments #cozyvibes #healthyliving #cozyrituals #joyfulliving #hygge #selfcaretips
My little beanie babies ❤️ I know this post i My little beanie babies ❤️

I know this post is coming a bit late buuuut I loved this quick DIY costume so much and figured it deserved a spot on the feed! 

#babiesfirsthalloween #dogsandbabies #lovemylittlefamily #newmomlife #romanticizeyourlife #fallphotodump #familyhalloween
What my weekend is currently looking like 🥰 # What my weekend is currently looking like 🥰 

#countdowntochristmas🎄 #christmasdecor #tistheseason #romanticizeyourlife #holidayseason
It’s the beginning of the most wonderful time of It’s the beginning of the most wonderful time of year and my absolute favorite holiday🎄❤️

I know Nov 1st may seem a little early to start celebrating the Christmas season for some but I always feel like this time of year flies by too fast. So decorating our home early and starting all the fun Christmas baking, crafts and festive activities feels like a special way to make the most of the holidays ❤️

Who else will be spending the weekend decorating? 

#romanticizeyourlife #holidayseason #christmastimeishere #smalljoys
The person who sent you this wants to have a spook The person who sent you this wants to have a spooky date night in to celebrate Halloween 🎃

Halloween isn’t my fav holiday but I do love a themed cozy evening with my favorite person… and it feels even more special these days as new parents. So we decided to have a SPOOKY date complete with homemade pizzas (with ghost shaped mozzarella), blackberry smash cocktails, a candle painting craft, pumpkin ice cream, and a rewatch of “Haunting of Bly Manor” 🖤 

PS: I’m not a big horror movie fan but this show is such a well done metaphor of how grief can haunt you and the tone feels much more gothic romance than classic jump scares 

Anywaaay, after tomorrow I’m looking forward to decorating our home for Christmas and you can expect lots of cozy, whimsical ideas to savor and celebrate the holiday season coming soon ☺️

#datenightin #cozyseason #halloweenishere #romanticizeyourlife #datenightideas
Is it just me, or is fall flying by? 🧡 Here a Is it just me, or is fall flying by? 🧡 

Here are a few of my #fallfavorites from the archives featuring lots of leaf peeping, spooky treats, and fun moments with family and friends.

#lifelately #autumnarchives #fallgirl #cozygirlfall #cozyseason #babiesfirstfall #romanticizelife #simplejoys #newmomlife #fallphotodump
Bringing you behind the scenes of the Halloween Ri Bringing you behind the scenes of the Halloween Ride & Haunted Happy Hour I hosted for my @denverfitfriends community this past weekend! 👻 🎶 

The gals showed up in costume and @ritual_indoorcycling led us through such a fun 45 min ride with all the best spooky vibes 🖤 

A big thank you to our vendors @alythactive, @truvani and @drinkparch for making this an extra special experience! 

I have one last DenFit event planned for November to wrap up the year so if you’re in the Denver area stay tuned for details coming sooooon ✨☺️

#denverfitfriends #denfit #denverfitnesscommunity #denverfitness #dayinmylife #halloweenevent #wellnessgirl
“When we are together darling, every night is Ha “When we are together darling, every night is Halloween.” 🖤

Lily was invited to her first Halloween party yesterday so we obviously had to dress up as one of the most iconic, creepy + kooky families ever! And I know I’m so biased but I don’t think I’ve seen a cuter Wednesday Addams 🥹

Such a fun way to celebrate spooky season (and a pretty easy family costume if you’re in need of something last minute!) 

But what do you guys think? Is it creepy or cute? 👇🏼

#addamsfamily #familyhalloweencostumes #halloweenparty #wednesdayaddams #familyhalloween #theaddamsfamily #babiesfirsthalloween
Welcome to my “Cozy Corner” 🧡 a new series Welcome to my “Cozy Corner” 🧡 a new series where I’ll share some of my favorite things each month that can help you slow down and savor the season

I have so many things I want to chat with you all about and can’t wait to dive into more of these! You can expect lots of cozy hobby ideas, self care tips, book recommendations, gift guides, fitness/wellness favs, recipes I’m loving, and more — just let me know if you have any requests! 

I’m kicking things off with 3 of my favorite fall crafts that I’ve been loving for both solo cozy nights in or for hosting friends ✨. You can find tutorials and video examples of all three in my recent reels

I hope you guys enjoy our cozy chat 💬 

#cozyhobbies #cozycrafts #fallgirl #selfcaretips #comfortcreator #wellbeing #wellnessjourney #softwellness #hobbiesareimportant #romanticizeyourlife #cozycorner #joyfulliving
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