Knead to Cook

Food & fitness obsessed girl.

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2020 Holiday Gift Guide for the Fitness Lover.

November 17, 2020 by Knead to Cook Filed Under: Gift ideas, Health & wellness, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides

I’ll be honest… we aren’t doing a big production Christmas this year. We sold our house a month ago (pending) and close mid December. We close on our new home the same day. We are downsizing, like BIG time, and because we bought a row home in the city, built in 1857 but completely gutted and renovated, we need to downsize our lives and furniture to fit! We’ve been selling every bit of furniture, donating and tossing possessions. With that, we have warned everyone in our family that the holidays will be quite simple this go-around. Plus with Covid, it will only be us, no in-laws, extended family or friends. No parties. Nothing. Small and simple is the theme, pretty much for all of 2020.

With that in mind, I wasn’t planning on gift guides but have had a ton of requests so I’m going to do a few good ones for you all. Let’s get started. Affiliate links to each product listed below.

Links:
These fitness cards would be an awesome addition to anyone’s gym. Perfect for the newbie or experienced fitness lover. Great new exercises or old favorites.

Always a winner, the newest Apple watch. This is on my wish list. My watch is a few versions ago and the oxygen blood level monitoring is mind-blowing. A tech fitness fan favorite for sure! And I gravitate towards the 44 because I love a big watch.

Thera guns are great but can be quite pricey! This version is a mini with a more tolerable price point! So great on sore muscles all over your body!

Apple air pod pro’s are on my daughter’s list this year. They are one of my favorites. They stay in my ears without causing ear pain. Sweat doesn’t cause them to fall out. Pair nicely with my Peloton and phone. My go-to!

This weighted jump rope is the PERFECT addition to your gym. Weighted jump ropes far exceed traditional jump ropes to boost your muscle and fitness. Built to boost muscle, fitness and endurance!

I cannot forget my runners out there. The phone dilemma. Carry it or not?! I hated to but the safety aspect is huge nowadays. This arm band has been receiving great reviews! Great price point and the perfect gift for anyone who hikes or runs!

I got a pair of these leggings and also here for more color options earlier in the year and I have to admit they are a dream! Wash and wear perfectly. Not see-through. So amazingly comfy! Tons of colors! I’m a convert.

Bill owns these. I got a pair. Then I loved them so much I got my dad a pair. Seriously one of the best pairs of sneakers (and here) I’ve ever owned.

And my favorite of all, the Peloton. We upgraded to the bike + in September. We received it in October. We are in love. The speakers, the swivel screen, the Apple connectivity. ALL OF IT. No words. When ordering, if you desire, you can use my referral code, which gets you and me $100 credit to use towards accessories or apparel.

Code: EY2RNX

So one gift guide down… more to come! Stay tuned.

~ox

— Knead to Cook

Self Care Sunday Holiday Gift Guide 2019. Vegan.

November 10, 2019 by Knead to Cook Filed Under: Health & wellness, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides

I had to do a self care Sunday holiday gift list. In 2019 I was committed to taking the time to pamper myself a bit more. Everyone needs to do this for our mental well-being. I’m sharing my absolute favorites which can serve as a hostess gift, stocking stuffer or a treat for you!

This Vitruvi diffuser is stunning! No weird lights. No bubbling sounds. Just beautiful, stylish perfection for your home. Comes in a variety of colored stones. It’s truly perfection. Worth every penny!

You all know I’m a huge Cocokind fan. A female-owned company with the cleanest ingredients…. in fact I’ve brewed this mask up as a tea! It does wonders for the skin leaving you refreshed and healthy. “It’s an excellent source of vitamins A,C, E, and K — these can act to replenish the skin and keep it firm, increase collagen production, and help reduce free radical damage.” 

Drunk Elephant, if you haven’t tried it, is insanely awesome. In fact, it has a cult following. I’ve used so many of their products and always gravitate to these sets so I can sample everything. This would be a great for a girlfriend, teacher or again, for you! I mean perfect skin overnight… who wouldn’t want that during the holiday season 🙂

I bought this meditation pillow for his birthday last year and he uses it every single day. It’s really lovely quality, super comfortable and durable. For someone committing to bettering themselves, this may be a wonderful gift that they wouldn’t buy for themselves.

This essential oil fragrance by Vitruvi combination is truly one of my go-to’s and favorites. It pairs perfectly with the diffuser listed above. If your recipient already has a diffuser… get this oil! They will adore you. The combination of Frankensense, lavender and eucalyptus is perfect for nighttime, daytime or even when you’re feeling under the weather. Obsessed.

I started using a eye mask when my hours at work changed and my bedtime every other week was 5p. I found this eye mask after the first eye mask I bought started coming apart. I’m all about weighted blankets but an eye mask… oh hell yes! It creates a lovely pressure on your face that is so relaxing… I cannot explain it. Regardless of what my schedule looks like at work, I’m all about this eye mask to block out all the light. I also feel that most don’t own a mask like this so you don’t have to worry.

In the pursuit of using non toxic products on my body – I found Ella and Mila nail. I bought a few colors and loved them and then found the holy grail to keep my nails strong all year round. This clear nail strengthener really truly does what it says! I typically put this on 2-3 times a week. I’ve been using since February and have noticed a huge difference. Great little gift or stocking stuffer. Great price point as well!

Every single year in the fall Bill buys me this candle. It is by far my favorite. It is reasonably priced and it has a long burn. It’s a blend of oatmeal, vetiver and vanilla. Plus the apothecary vibe to the jar is my favorite. Can totally be reused as a vase or a candy jar etc.

Ahhhh my latest purchase. The Billie razor. This is on both of my girl’s lists. I bought one and after a long delay in shipping for some reason it came. I’ve been using it for about 1 month and I have to say that I honestly don’t need to shave every day with this one. Plus I haven’t cut or nicked myself. It has a magnetic holder for the shower. New blades are delivered however often you wish. Fun little gift that is practical but everyone will love.

Hope you’re getting some good gift ideas! Tomorrow’s gift guide will be for all the guys in your life.

— Knead to Cook

2019 Holiday Gift Guide for the Fitness Lover.

November 9, 2019 by Knead to Cook Filed Under: Health & wellness, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides, Vegan

If you follow me on Instagram you know that 2 weeks ago our Peloton bike was delivered and we are truly obsessed with not on the cycling classes, the trainers, the bootcamp, yoga, HIIT, running etc. classes. They are currently running a 30 day trial period that you can try it out the bike for 30 days. If you aren’t happy you simply call them and they will pick it up no questions asked! On top of that they are running 0% financing for the the life of the loan if you chose to go that way. When you sign up at Peloton and use me as a referral (user id is: runner4) you and I get $100 each to use with Peloton on accessories or apparel.

Apple watch – I’ve long been a fan and love the new 5th series. In fact one of my girls is getting this exact watch for Christmas! The styles and bands are incredible and can go from dressy to sporty! I love the new Nike bands!

Adidas Ultra Boost sneakers – if you have a gym-goer, runner or someone who stands a lot during the day… they will love these! These sneakers are like wearing bedroom slippers I cannot lie! Perfect sneakers for men or women.

These leggings from Lululemon are by far my most favorite ever! I have several pairs and love them for both working out or living life. They are literally the most comfortable leggings I own. I’m a huge fan of the camo and the camo deep coal. I wear these pants several times a week!

I’m a bit obsessed about my next post and they are on my list! Noise cancelling air pods from Apple. I’m not a fan of big headphones especially because I use these on planes, trains and automobiles! I use them working out. They fit nicely in your pocket, wallet or purse. Huge fan and these noise cancelling newer version… yep must have! Plus they are engraveable if ordered from their site.

Finally, sharing a yoga mat I got for Bill recently. After researching the best yoga mat out there this was the winner! London-based company. This mat is all you need… no towel required for all those hot yoga classes. It’s durable, highly rated, eco-friendly & fabulous. We are big fans of Liforme!

Stay tuned for the next gift guide which will tackle Sunday Self Care 🙂

— Knead to Cook

My thoughts on the Peloton bike. Product review.

November 8, 2019 by Knead to Cook Filed Under: Fitness., Health & wellness, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides

As of the last year or so my training at the gym has felt quite lackluster. I didn’t want to shell out a ton of cash for a trainer. I know how and what to do there. Running is off the table and I had added yoga back in. I wouldn’t say I hated it but I would say I’ve become quite complacent.

The last few months I mentioned to Bill that I may want the Mirror or something that would allow me to workout from home. Now, with that being said, we do have a full gym in our home. Elliptical, TRX, weights, Bowflex, Bosu etc. I just wasn’t engaged. What was I missing?

So a few weeks ago my iPhone died. I was off on the weekend and we headed to King of Prussia for lunch and decided to stop at Apple and pick up a new phone. While traipsing through the mall, we found ourselves in the Peloton store talking to a lovely woman. We got all the info and left. We would think about it. They are running a 30 day trial. If you love it- you keep it. If you hate it- they come and get it no questions asked.

Bill had mentioned to me earlier in that week that he spoke to a woman wearing a Peloton shirt at work. She raved about it! So after eating, walking, talking… we headed back to the store and bought one. The eariest delivery was on that Thursday, 5 days later. I was excited and fearful… I’m not a cyclist. In fact, I hated it.

The days leading up to the delivery were filled with the logistics. Where are we putting this thing? I didn’t want it in our basement where our gym is…. the guest room? Sure but if we wanted to take a yoga class or strength – there wasn’t enough floor space. Sydney’s room is huge and she isn’t there so that would work. That was our decision. Plus she has a tv in her room we could use to connect the app for bootcamp/yoga classes etc.

The delivery was fast and smooth. The bike is just under 200 lbs. We put a mat underneath that Bill already had from when he did his bike in the trainer. The mat merely protects the floor from the sweat and is very necessary. The only other must haves are cycling shoes to clip in with ($125 from Peloton) or Bill was using his road cycling shoes. The mat. And small hand weights. We bought ours at Target. They recommend 1, 2 or 3lbs. I know this seems too light but trust me, it is more than enough.

When signing up they ask if anyone referred you. Bill used the lady from work. When you do, the referring party and YOU both get $100 credit! Bonus. This can be used on equipment, apparel etc. My user is runner4 if you wish to use me as a referral. I used the $100 towards my shoes.

Q & A’s

I asked followers of my Instagram for questions that they have about the Peloton. Let’d dig in…

If I have a road bike/trainer, is it worth the digital membership? From what I understand its good but not the same without the bike itself. The app has so many workouts from running, cycling, yoga, HIIT, outdoor (audio run), strength, meditation, stretching, bootcamp, walking and cardio.

What types of workouts come with the bike/subscription and cost? The general categories are listed above. The cycling classes run from beginner, intermediate to advanced, metrics-based, cardio and strength… literally so many live and pre-recorded classes. Bike cost $2499 or you can do 0% financing for the life of the loan. The monthly $39.

Do you really feel that riding with heavy resistance doesn’t bulk up your legs? This was one of my fears. But after 2 weeks my legs have gotten stronger but smaller. I think lifting heavy at the gym bulked them up where now they’ve slimmed down in just 2 weeks. I’m sure if you do a lot of climbing it can add bulk but I haven’t had that issue.

What’s involved in getting started? Sign up. The bike arrives. You create a user with the delivery guys/they connect WiFi etc. Then you select your class and ride.

How much guidance do the instructors give? First they make recommendations on cadence and resistance (many classes show the range on the screen. These instructors are beyond motivating! I haven’t finished a class yet that I’m not soaked and completely fatigued.

Can people follow each other? My user is runner4 and you can follow people you know. You can see when they’re in a class you’re considering.

How do you do floor exercise classes? If you have a smart tv you can connect it through the app and use the tv to view the instructor etc. If you don’t, you can use the app on an iPhone, laptop or iPad. Some simple, short classes I use the bike tv and set my mat up right next to the bike so I can see it.

Its really remarkable to see my progress in such a short amount of time. My cadence and resistance has grown. I’ve exceeded 110 miles. The classes vary in time and work great with my crazy work schedule. From 5 min classes to 45 – I’ve loved stacking them. The strength classes alone are great and combined with cycling are exceptionally challenging.

You can pick a class by music genre, ability, cycling/weights, by instructor… so many choices.

I’m far from testing out all of the classes but I also know that holiday gift giving and delivery, if you choose to buy one, is quickly approaching. My honest review is that I’m leaving the gym and embracing this bike/classes and everything digital with Peloton. It has humbled and exhilarated me equally. It has been truly amazing.

And finally, some days you just wish to ride through Italy or France… yep, you can do that too! I am barely scratching the surface on what this bike (and they also have a treadmill) can do. If I missed any questions that you have… please leave me a comment and I’ll try to answer it as best as I can.

*This product review has not been sponsored. We purchased this bike outright.

— Knead to Cook

Don’t be a smelly vegan. In search of the best deodorant.

February 18, 2018 by Knead to Cook Filed Under: Best Vegan..., Gluten Free, Going and Living Vegan, Health & wellness, Vegan 6 Comments

Deodorant… seems simple, yet it’s been such a struggle for me and many of the good folks who follow me on Instagram.  I posed the question a few weeks ago on my Insta Story and hundreds of good folks DM’d me.  Suggestions.  Requesting help.  I was flat out sick and tired of spending A LOT on crappy, bad-ingredient, deodorants.  So I took the suggestions.  Did a ton of research and here are my findings.

Drum roll please.

[Read more…]

— Knead to Cook

Friday Favorite Products for January 2018

February 2, 2018 by Knead to Cook Filed Under: Best Vegan..., Friday Favorites Series, Gift ideas, Health & wellness, Product Review., Sponsored, Vegan 2 Comments

For 2018 I’m re-instituting my favorites on my blog for easy reference (versus my Insta stories).  I’m all about improving my health naturally, boost my self care and improve my well being especially in 2018!  I hope you find some new product ideas or learn about product options that can add to your health and wellness this new year.

[Read more…]

— Knead to Cook

Don’t throw the scale out! My perspective.

January 27, 2018 by Knead to Cook Filed Under: Health & wellness, Product Review., Vegan 5 Comments

Okay so we’re 27 days into 2018 and do you love your scale yet?  Ha.  These memes made me laugh.  The reality is we all hate the scale from time to time – or ALL THE TIME.  I know this past summer when I completely gave up on running (yes, I just had a partial knee replacement in case you didn’t know), I started to lose my “skinny fat” aka lacking muscle and started to gain weight.  It wasn’t BAD weight from eating junk but it was my shift in focus to weightlifting.  So hold on… I lift all the heavy things AND GAIN weight?  Ummmm yeah.
[Read more…]

— Knead to Cook

Flu Fighter Immunity Boosting Lemon Ginger Turmeric Tonic.

January 15, 2018 by Knead to Cook Filed Under: Breakfast, Brunch, Evolution Power Yoga 40 Days, Fitness., Fruit, Gluten Free, Health & wellness, Vegan, Wheat Free, Your Life Edit Foundations 6 Comments

It’s been a year since I’ve posted.  Well, not exactly but it feels like forever!  So where have I gone you may ask?

Well I opted to finish up my cooking for clients the week before Christmas; just in time to celebrate my birthday. We went to DC to see the Cav’s play, shop & eat our way through Georgetown.  ALL OF US!  It was so nice to have our college girl home again.  Then Christmas and the company arrived.  Food.  Faith.  Presents.  All on repeat. Then I have to admit, on Christmas night, our tree and all decorations were put away and life was good.

Why the rush to end the holiday?  Well Santa brought me a new partial knee replacement.  I had my surgery on the 29th.  If worrying about that wasn’t enough, couple that with my oldest & my husband both getting sick.  You see, I wasn’t allowed to get sick for 2 weeks prior to surgery.  Needless to say I lived in a bubble.  Ha.

Surgery went really well.  Stay over in the hospital one evening and fast forward 17 days to today.  I’m back to the gym, lifting upper body.  I can walk sans limping.  I can drive.  And each day it gets better.  Amazing, right?

So I’ll stop on my knee update & move on to this recipe.  The flu is hitting & hitting hard.  I’ve been making this elixir/tonic whatever you wish to call it all fall/winter to keep us all healthy. Knock wood it’s working!  It’s strong.  Be prepared but it’s packed with vital nutrients and vitamins to keep your immunity in tip top shape.  Team that up with washing your hands every second you get & hopefully we all survive this winter.

[Read more…]

— Knead to Cook

Homemade Easy Reishi Hot Cacao. Vegan. Adaptogen.

November 7, 2017 by Knead to Cook Filed Under: Beverages, Breakfast, Brunch, Gluten Free, Health & wellness, Vegan, Wheat Free 1 Comment

Reishi hot cacao has taken social media by storm.  Reishi (red) mushroom consumed on a regular basis, has been shown to enhance the body’s immune system, improve circulation and optimize health conditions.  It’s an adaptogen that also helps treat anxiety, high blood pressure, insomnia (it can cause vivid dreams), hepatitis, bronchitis and asthma.

My naturopath brought it to my attention and I loved it.  However the popular brand was quite spendy and I knew I could come up with an equally potent & superb product.  I’ve been making my own for about 3 months now and have loved it.  The recipe is super simple, almost too easy but it demands documentation for all of you who want to make a more economical version.
[Read more…]

— Knead to Cook

The best tips for going and living vegan.

October 29, 2017 by Knead to Cook Filed Under: Best Vegan..., Breakfast, Brunch, Cakes, Desserts, Going and Living Vegan, Health & wellness, Holiday, Product Review., Travel & eating, Vegan, Vegan Burgers, Vegan proteins 5 Comments

It’s the one question I get the most.  Can I share tips on how to go vegan? Then followed by favorite products and foods I love.

While I’m recuperating from knee surgery, I thought this would be the perfect time to tackle a post that will cover transitioning your diet over, favorite foods that I’ve discovered over my journey and brands for beauty, the home and life that are both vegan and don’t test on animals.  Along with fashion, shoes, eating out with friends… all of the goodness.

[Read more…]

— Knead to Cook

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