I'm back!

So, I snuck away to California last week and didn't even tell you guys beforehand... how rude! But I'm happy to say that, 1) it was a wonderful trip, and 2) I'm happy to be back! The trip was a combination of work and play (but more play, thankfully) in San Francisco and Los Angeles. I had never been to San Fran before, and what an awesome city! My brother and I did some exploring, including the typical tourist spots: the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Coit Tower, the sea lions at Fisherman's Wharf. So much fun. We also spent a few days in LA to see some family that we hadn't seen in entirely too long, and it was so, so, SO lovely. Hiking, exploring Venice beach, driving along the PCH, spending time with my cousins, and just enjoying being around great people. It was an awesome trip, and I'm already looking forward to returning! Then, it was back to San Fran for an academic conference -- not quite as leisurely, but also a great experience for a big ol' nerd like me. All in all, it was a week away that was so needed, with a great combination of leisure, adventure, activity, and learning... perfect. I'm going to share some pictures, then share what I have in store for the blog in the coming weeks!

A great view of San Fran from the 27th floor of the Hilton in Chinatown

The sea lions bathing at Fisherman's Wharf

The Painted Ladies with the San Fran skyline in the background

Chinatown in San Fran... so cool.

We rented a convertible Mustang... why not?

Driving across the Golden Gate Bridge

Me and my brother in front of the bridge

Enjoying the view from Alcatraz

An Alcatraz prison cell

Dinner at a restaurant on the bay in San Fran: scallops, quinoa, arugula, dried cranberries, and fried onions with a balsamic glaze... OMG.

Flying into LA... you can see the Hollywood sign if you look really close!

Enjoying a wonderfully relaxing morning at my aunt and uncles: green drink & coffee before Bikram and hiking!

Hiking Runyon Canyon with my brother, uncle, and aunt

Made it to the top!

California strawberries: Amazing.

Four mile walk with my aunt through their hilly, beautiful Westlake neighborhood

It was a little tough coming back to 40 degree weather here in Baltimore, but it feels good to be home.   Also, I have to tell you guys... I am ready to get back into a healthy routine! The last few weeks have been pretty crazy for me (a marriage proposal, a celebratory trip home, a weekend in DC, thesis defense, traveling to Cali), which has made it tough to stick to a regular fitness routine and eat clean. Don't get me wrong... all this excitement is totally worth it! But my body is craving HEALTH. With warm weather just around the corner (and a newly-scheduled beach trip planned for May!), I'm especially ready to commit to being good to my body. Are y'all with me?

I'm going to plan to share lots of heathy recipes with you in the coming weeks -- eating healthy can also be delicious. I'll also try to share some more workout and exercise tips. Let's go into spring and summer in the best, healthiest way possible! Oh, and please let me know if there's anything specific that you'd like me to post about -- I love suggestions. 

Join me in committing to treating our bodies the way they want to be treated... You in?