MIRAVAL

I dedicate this post to my loving husband, David. This post would never exist if it weren't for you. Thank you for having me take the time to take care of myself.

I LOVE YOU!

I just spent 4 glorious days at the coveted destination retreat - Miraval in Tucson, Arizona. My girlfriend, Marcy, was able to experience this wonderful getaway with me. We had this trip planned for months and couldn't believe it when the time had finally arrived. 

Four days of unlimited workouts (which kicked my butt), gourmet meals around the clock (seriously, it's all inclusive and they have to-go containers just sitting there begging to be filled up and there is a gourmet coffee and smoothie bar - oh I could go on and on), numerous spa treatments, poolside relaxation and a cocktail here and there. We were spoiled rotten! 

For those who know me well, know that I am not really the mind, body, spirit kind of gal. At least not all at once. But there is something about Miraval that had me focused and connected to all 3 elements. I can't really explain it. You just need to experience the journey yourself to understand. I'm already looking forward to next year. That's right! This is going to be an annual Mind-Body-Spirit cleansing!

As soon as we checked in, we wasted no time and headed off to the pool.

Our peaceful suite.

Cheers to our first night at Miraval!

Skinny Girl Margs

Now for the food . . . 

Which, by the way, has the calorie count listed for everything!

And I'm not sure how they do it, but they pack a lot of flavor into these healthy meals.

Eating here made me realize just how portion size has gotten out of control in restaurants!

300 calorie gnocchi? How did they do it?!

Also around 300 calories - Shrimp Risotto

Barbeque Chicken Flatbread - TO DIE FOR

When it's all inclusive and you can't decide?
You order one of everything!
Tiramisu, Apple Cobbler and Deconstructed Banana Split
(Not one of these was over 250 calories)

One of my buffet lunch creations.
Spinach salad with grilled chicken and shrimp, tuna nicoise and pork pozole.
Everything in the buffet had a calorie count to along with portion size.

50 calorie cookies?!
I swear they tasted no different than any other rich and decadent cookie!
I just sampled a couple because I think it would have defeated the purpose.  : )

Next stop . . . SPA

Nothing like sharing a relaxing massage with your Bestie!

Refreshed and rejuvenated!

Waiting for the next treatment : )

Until next time, Miraval!

Marcy - I can't wait for my "A-Ha" moment to arrive! ; )

Jumping Sophia

Nana got a trampoline for Sophia's birthday. It is the best way for the girls to release some energy and to tucker out. : )

Very Pinteresting

I don't normally blog about websites. But I finally took the time to check out Pinterest. One of my favorite blogs, How Sweet It Is, uses Pinterest all the time in her blog posts. You should check her site out . . . she is funny!

Anyway, I'm loving Pinterest! I am finding it is a great way to keep my "thoughts" organized in regards to certain styles and decor. This is especially handy when it comes to designing that perfect room, kitchen or whatever! Come check it out. Look me up - sbjen. See what I've been pinning to my boards!

Our Camper

This entire week Sophia has been going to Zoo Camp. She had been looking forward to this week for a few months now. And so with the blink of an eye and my signature to sign her in, she was off with her friends. As if her riding a bike wasn't enough to make time pass by like the speed of light.

Last Friday Night

T.G.I.F! Did you think I was about to bust out with some Katy Perry : ) I think our family might be joining the ranks of an official fair-goer and carnie or is it carny? Simply put . . . we just love it! And this is a love even in the age of B.C. (Before Children). Of course mine and David's reasons are different than the kid's. Food = Happy Mommy & Daddy. That's right we love that greasy, fried up, pour some sugar or butter or melted cheese on it food. Rides & Games = Happy Kids. It's a win-win. 

Photo Disclaimer: Please excuse poor quality pics. Did not want to lug Big Girl Camera (which is now an upgraded Nikon D90 from the D80 - THANK YOU TO MY DADDY). Got to the fair and Little Girl Camera no worky. Darling Hubby is going to buy a new Little Girl Camera. 

Oops . . . Just realized, Little Girl Camera no worky because 'display' button was pressed. So I guess it does worky. Darling Hubby is still going to buy a new Little Girl Camera. Isn't he the best?

This huge turkey lurkey made me think of Thanksgiving.

I know, I know. That's not very nice. 

Probably not nice to put this picture to follow.

Jalapeno Cheese Pretzel as big as my face.

Ride 'em cowgirl!

A different twist on the caramel apple.

Much easier to eat. And share. Yes, share.

Ice cream . . .

. . . can make you thirsty.

See what I mean? HAPPY CAMPERS!

And this . . .

. . . made a couple of other HAPPY CAMPERS while . . .

. . . on the couch, at home, in pajamas.

They should just sell the center of the cinnamon roll

It really is the piece de resistance. By the photo you wouldn't think,

but I swear our bellies will tell you different!

I couldn't skip that Saturday morning run due to all of the above : )

Time & a Note to LSG {Little Sophia Grace}

Time flies by with the blink of an eye when you have kids. The pictures below made me realize just how fast Sophia is growing up. I can't believe she will be in kindergarten next year.

Dear LSG,

The other day, I made the mistake of telling you how fast you were growing in to a big girl and that you weren't a baby anymore. At the time I didn't realize how much you'd internalize my comment. You woke up crying and said, "I'm sad because I'm not your baby anymore." Oh sweet girl. How I wish you understood that comment in its' entirety. I hope one day this blog will be around for you to read. If it's not than I'll be happy to know my emails to you will be waiting either online and/or in your binder. 

I love you ~ Mommy

Sophia you might be a 4 year old now, but you will always be my baby!

2007 - 1 month old

2008 - 8 months old

2009 - 2 years old

2010 - 3 years old