7 Quick Takes Friday (vol. 24)

— 1 —

I had my first haircut since January last weekend (so overdue!) and at the last minute decided to lighten my hair. A lot. I’m now the kind of blonde you are when you are toying with the idea of going totally blonde but chicken out at the last minute….

There’s still some brown hiding underneath and at the top. I’m happy with how it turned out and think I could handle full-blonde next time if I can get over the frequent trips to the salon upkeep will require.

— 2 —

After over 9 years of marriage, I finally convinced my husband to go for a run with me!! Not just any run, but a 5k supporting a local crisis pregnancy center. A few weekends ago when it was gorgeous out, we started training.

We went for a 6 mile hike and ran for about 1/9th of it. Hoping for some nice weather this weekend so we can pick up where we left off. We have about 2.5 months until the race. Plenty of time. He’s so much taller than me that when we run, I almost take two full strides for each one of his. I practically run when we walk together just to keep up, so this should be interesting.

— 3 —

I’m on the hunt for a new foundation. Girlfriends, what are your faves? Mine has literally been melting off my face half way through the day, despite using primer. I’ve been using Bare Minerals READY powdered foundation. I really liked their ORIGINAL powdered foundation and the Complexion Rescue, but prefer something with fuller coverage.

— 4 —

Do you like adorable babies in matching/coordinating clothes? If so, you must follow the Momo Twins on Instagram. Their Mom puts them in the cutest outfits and poses, like one of my recent favs Iron Man vs. Captain America.

— 5 —

Beef jerky fans, pay attention. This week I tried some of the best beef jerky I’ve ever had. I don’t use that qualifier lightly. It was flavorful and tender, and it didn’t feel like you were gnawing on something the way the overly dehydrated varieties can feel.

This is not an ad. Just a recommendation from a fan, which let’s be honest marketers, that’s way more valuable than an ad!

— 6 —

What I’ve been reading: Edith Kermit Roosevelt: Portrait of a First Lady. It’s been a slow read because I haven’t had a lot of down time lately, but I enjoy each time I get to dive back into it. I admire Mrs. Roosevelt’s poise and strength through the many ups and downs in her life. SPOILER: She was Theodore Roosevelt’s second wife, though she knew (and loved him) since she was a child. Can you imagine watching the love of your life marry another woman?

— 7 —

This week is National Infertility Awareness Week. 1 in 8 married couples struggle with infertility, so if it doesn’t touch your life directly, it has likely impacted someone you know.

I’d like to point you to this very informative post about endometriosis (a disease that often leads to infertility) and a type of treatment that seeks to heal rather than mask symptoms. Young women with excruciatingly painful cycles are often told it is normal. It is not normal! While there is no “cure” for endometriosis, there are treatments like surgery that can help.

For more Quick Takes, visit This Ain’t The Lyceum!

Have a great weekend! 🙂