Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
It’s freezing out there today! Holy moly! We were so spoiled here in Boston with the most beautiful (and warm) fall weather… and now it’s so COLD! I’m just NOT ready for winter quite yet! This morning, for instance, I stayed in my nice warm bed instead of getting up to exercise. You see… it’s already happening! My body isn’t ready for the cold weather! It’s so tough for me to workout in the mornings during the winter, especially when it’s cold and dark. I need to fight the urge to stay in bed and continue getting up for my morning workouts! Damn it! 
After sleeping in and a warm shower, my morning began with a bowl of cranberry oats topped with ginger tea granola and a few chocolate chips sprinkled on top. The combo was divine! Sweet and tart, smooth and crunchy, all at the same time.
After eating a few bites of my oats, I realized that I forgot my two spoonfuls of Barney Butter (again)… and no bowl of breakfast oats is complete with out them! Unfortunately, my jar of BB was just about empty!
Desperate times call for desperate measures… 
Yep, that’s right, I whipped out a spatula to make sure that I got every last ounce of Barney Butter from the sides of the jar. Hey, this stuff is delicious, but it’s also expensive– I’m getting my money’s worth!
At work, I made my usual cup of joe with vanilla soy milk. I nixed the agave nectar again this morning… I think my coffee taste-buds are a-changin’!
I baked an extra Chocolate Pumpkin Loaf to bring to work for my coworkers, so I ate a small piece with my morning coffee. The coffee-chocolate pumpkin loaf combination is SO fantastic!!! Well, pretty much any coffee-chocolate combo is amazing to me!
NYC Itinerary
Mal and I mostly finalized our itinerary for our upcoming trip to NYC this weekend. It was tough narrowing down what to do, especially with all of the wonderful recommendations you guys gave us! Thanks, again! 
Weekend Highlights:
- Union Square Market (and the Whole Foods)
- Peanut Butter & Co.
- Ground Zero (neither of us have ever been)
- Morrell Wine Bar & Cafe (where we got engaged!)
- Serendipity
- Hudson Bar
- Basso56
- Eatery
Question of the Day
What do you refuse to spend a lot of money on?
For instance, I don’t like to spend a lot of money on workout clothes (sneakers and sports bras are a different story!), so I only buy exercise gear at Target, Old Navy, or other discount stores, like Marshalls and TJMaxx.
Posted by: Tina 51 comments
Posted in: Uncategorized, guest blogger, workouts
Tags: cranberries, granola
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 10:50 am
I’m with you on the exercise gear. I also refuse to spend money on books. I know that’s terrible because I love to read, but books have gotten WAY too expensive…so the library and places like half.com are it for me! Borrowed or used all the way.
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 10:54 am
BethT,
I totally agree with you about books! I love the $2 paperbacks you can get off Amazon and Half.com.
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 10:55 am
High end hand bags! I have a bundle of Vera Bradleys but that is pretty much the extent I go to! I have 1 DB bag that I got with my marriot points! I think high end bags are gorgeous and classy but I just can’t shell out $200 for a bag!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 10:57 am
Tina, I don’t know if you already planned on ordering this at Serendipity but please make sure you and Mal try a frozen hot chocolate…YUM!!!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 10:58 am
Great question! I was going to say exactly what Beth T did…I love, love, love to read, but just can’t justify paying $15 for something I will be done with in 2 days. I usually get mine from the library, but I’m going to look into the used ones, too!
Cold weather kept me in my warm bed instead of working out this morning, too
Have a great day, Tina!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 10:59 am
Definatly enjoy whole foods and union square- I love that place! I think the best part of the city is just wandering around and going in and out of funky stores!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:00 am
I love your bowl!!!!!!!!!!!! (well…..I’m a little bit obssesed with all bowls/plates)
I don’t like to spend money on unhealthy food, specially dining out in a cheap place.
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:01 am
Have fun in NY! My husband and I went for Thanksgiving last year and had an amazing time! After the parade we headed over to Whole Foods for a Thanksgiving feast and picnicked in Central Park…sigh, how romantic!
I know you already did your itinerary, but if you happen to be in the Lower East Side and want a treat, Babycakes NYC is heaven! My husband still talks about their cupcakes, they are so good! Check out the website (www.babycakesnyc.com).
I am the same with workout gear, hate spending lots of money on it…and books/music…I’m becoming more and more thrifty, these days, used is becoming my fave for almost everything…almost…a girl’s gotta drop the bank sometimes, hehe!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:03 am
Lately it’s been books for me too. I’m reading up the books that I have but otherwise I stick to the library. I don’t reread books that often so this works out well. Plus it cuts down on the clutter and saves SO much money! I love books but eventually they take over the place.
I also refuse to spend a lot on clothes and shoes. I stick to the Gap for most of my clothes because they tend to have good sales and aren’t too pricey. For shoes it’s JCPenney. The only footwear I am willing to shell out money for are my running sneakers.
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:13 am
I don’t spend money on lunches out. I always bring my own and end up saving about $10 a day. That’s like, a cute shirt by the end of the week!
I recently just got a lot of Trish McEvoy makeup, but normally I save by going with drugstore brand. Looks the same to me!
I also rarely get my nails done. It’s a nice treat but I hate to spend money on a service I can do for myself.
Also if you have time go to Dylan’s candy bar!!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:16 am
That Peanut Butter & Co place sounds AMAZING. I’ll have to find it when I go to NYC for New Years.
If you want to avoid the tourist-fest of Serendipity and get a fro-yo option instead (sorry, but I’m a froyo freak) you should try 16 Handles which is on 2nd Ave btw 9th and 10th. It’s self serve, tons of flavors, and tons of fruit/other toppings!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:27 am
What great choices for restaurants in NYC…I am a little embarrassed to admit that I live in NY and have never even HEARD of the Peanut Butter & Co. sandwich shop…A must visit over this Thanksgiving break!
I can’t wait to read all about your fab weekend!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:31 am
hi there, I am a long time lurker who felt compelled to comment…being from NYC I hate to tell you that the last I heard Serendipty (a former favorite spot for my mother & me) has closed. Double check this, but another great place to visit on the same block as serendipity is Dylan’s Candy Bar (owned by Ralph Lauren’s daughter Dylan) and Patsy’s pizza (a bit pricey, but worth every penny!) enjoy your trip! also go to Magnolia bakery (the best cupcakes ever!!! upper Westside (70th & Columbus) or down in the West village (the original)
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:34 am
one one must have…Pinkberry!!!! all natural frozen yogurt in plain, green tea (great) and a new coffee flavor…amazing toppings to choose from and they are opening up all over the city. so much to do, you’ll need another weekend here!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:35 am
Man, I hate the cold too! Anytime it’s below 60 degrees, I don’t even know how to handle myself. Fortunately, this doesn’t happen much in SB. Phew!
Hang in there! I think once your body gets used to the temperature change, you’ll start wanting to workout again!
Regarding your question, I don’t spend money on anything! haha. other than food and gas, I don’t shop ever, except maybe twice a year. I hate spending money especially on bottled water. It’s free at home! But I did finally find some BARNEY BUTTER, and splurged! Man, is that stuff worth it! I can see now why you’re hooked!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:36 am
you should also run in Central Park…drop a line if you wnat to meet up, I live three block from the park…just a thought…starbuck’s after….
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:40 am
I don’t spend a lot of money on really nice makeup or products. I have plenty of really great stuff from the drugstore, you just have to know what works and how to apply it!!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:47 am
Tina,
How do you deal with the cold. This is my 1st winter in Boston ( i moved from the warm Bama weather) and I can already tell my motivation to work out in the am is decreasing. What trick do you have for staying motivated? Also where is the best place to get affordable winter ware in Boston? Thanks!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:49 am
Jealous of your trip!!!!!
I refuse to spend too much money on a) workout clothes, b) bottled water
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:52 am
I also refuse to spend a lot of money on workout gear. However, it does help that I work at New Balance Corp. in Boston. For all you Bostonians I suggest the New Balance Factory store in Brighton. Great deals on clothes and shoes!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:58 am
I know, it’s going to be rough getting used to the cold this winter, but hopefully after a few weeks our bodies will be a little more used to it.
I can’t imagine forgetting my nut butter in the morning…I guess it could happen though, MAYBE!
Ditto on workout clothes, and also I’m big on buying purses at those same discount places as well. I’ll spend big money on a REALLY nice one every once in a while, but for the most part I’ll stick to the affordable ones that I can have lots of!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 11:59 am
Have fun on your trip! Make sure to go into the chapel next to ground zero, they have a really touching exhibit.
I refuse to spend money on shoes! It kills me to spend more than 30 bucks on a pair…but everyone tells me the better quality the longer they last?
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 12:00 pm
Great question! I don’t like spending a lot of money on prepared foods. I try really hard to cook from scratch as much as possible. I find frugality to be kinda thrilling in a proud, self-sufficient way.
It’s really cold here in Chicago too! I’m having a hard time doing my running work-outs because it’s cold and dark by the time I get home from work. I think the solution is to invest in some new wintertime work-out clothes so that I’ll be motivated to hit the sidewalk in my snazzy new gear
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
Yay NYC! PB&Co. is a fun little spot, but I have to say I was a bit disappointed when I went. Not enough PB on my sandwich and really dry bread. However, I do recommend buying a couple jars of their fun flavored PB – Dark Chocolate Dreams is my fav!
You should also check out the Holiday Shops at Bryant Park – they open this weekend and are really fun!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
24°F HERE!!!
Hooray for NYC!!! Your trip will ROCK.
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
I hate spending too much money for umbrellas and sunglasses. I either lose them or break them so I find that there is less remorse when I buy cheapies!
It is quite chilly here in the DC area, so I haven’t convinced myself to do any running or biking outdoors this week. I’d say no one else has either given the mob scene that’s been happening in my gym. I’m happy to live in a building with a conveniently located gym and lots of fitness minded people, but I heard a heated discussion last night about a possible treadmill “hogging” situation. It wasn’t pretty. Gym etiquette may be put to the test!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 12:29 pm
I definitely refuse to spend a lot of money on workout clothes! I mean I sweat in them and make them stink.
I second the reccommendation for the frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 12:33 pm
I LOVE the cranberry concoction with your oats this morning! yum!
I refuse to spend money buying dvd’s cd’s, etc…that stuff is just far too overpriced and you can download it all at home and make a cd!!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 12:33 pm
I love that bowl too..gorgeous..where did you get it?
I find that I have a hard time spending alot of money on clothes in general. I don’t think i’ve ever paid more than 50 bucks for a pair of jeans…now shoes and purses..that is a different story! I also refuse to buy bottled water….talk about the biggest rip off in the world.
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
Oo good question… I tend to be a cheap person in general. I definitely don’t spend a lot of money on workout clothes – I usually wear free t-shirts. For my shorts/leggings – now this is sad – I actually wear kids shorts and leggings from the children’s place that are like 10 years old. Other things I don’t like to spend money on are drinks/snacks from places like starbucks – in college I used to spend soooo much money at the cafes freshman year but I realized it and cut it out.
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
Great question given the economy. I buy cheap work pants at TJ maxx- I know it sounds weird. But when I wear a high quality blouse and blazer with high quality shoes and tasteful accessories, I feel like I can buy discounted pants and no one notices!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
Oh, Tina! You will love the PB & CO. Sandwich shop! Don’t forget to pick up a teeshirt, like mine
. I got the Heat is On Sandwich—with grilled chix, pineapple jam and all that fun stuff. You guys have quite the line up-I am guessing you’ll be splurging on a frozen hot chocolate on Serendipity!!! Please oh please say yes!
And about your question, I like to spend money on food, clothes, and random things for the room: candles, air fresheners, little trinkets, and a good lip gloss !!
Enjoy yourself!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 1:18 pm
Hey Tina! You guys will have a great time!! Enjoy!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
I will not spend money on purses or exercise gear. I have tons of t-shirts that I got from promos at jobs I’ve had. As for purses, I just don’t really carry one so I don’t see the point of buying them!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
It is FRIGID today in Boston!!! What happened to the 70 degree weather we had on Saturday?!? I definitely had a very hard time getting myself to the gym this morning, I didn’t want to leave my covers! Anyway, your breakfast looks beautiful and yummy! And it’s so worth scraping the peanut/almond butter container clean, it is expensive! But food I try not to skimp on spending (though I do shop at Trader Joe’s for the prices). I agree though, I spend virtually no money on workout clothes, it’s all tshirts and shorts I’ve collected from various sports over the years. Oh and I’m oh-so-jealous of your trip to NYC this weekend!!! I agree with Ashley above on the PB&Co. It’s fun, but the food isn’t that great. Definitely stock up on jars of their fun flavors though, that’s worth it in itself!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Ginger tea granola??? That sounds amazing- where do you find it? And you’re Too cute with the spatula for the barney butter!
I also don’t spend a lot of money on workout gear (other than quality shoes) because I’m just going to sweat all over it anyway; also, I won’t spend a lot of money on clothes in general, really. I try not to spend a lot of money on books and utilize the library, but that’s what I’m tempted by most- magazines too
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 1:31 pm
If we’re talking cupcakes, I have to tell you that Billy’s in Chelsea is better than Magnolia. And PB & Company isn’t that great, but their millkshakes are pretty good.
Anyway. I don’t like to spend money on work out clothes either. Or socks. My sock drawer is pathetic.
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 1:38 pm
I’m all about the holidays, but the weather and the cold and the not wanting to run outside…
…kind of makes me cry. I’m with ya, sister.
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
sounds like a great weekend planned! I cant wait to hear about peanut butter & co! I dont spend money on sunglasses – I lose them so much, that I always purchase them cheap at Target or something else like that.
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 1:44 pm
Jewlery! I really dont wear any except earrings and I get them at Walmart!! Don’t tell anyone!! (They have the best for sensitive ears!)
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 1:47 pm
I love how pretty and pink your breakfast was!
Happy Wednesday!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
hey tina, let me chime in and vote that you nix serendipity (if you want you can stop by and grab the freezing hot chocolate mix to make at home instead of sitting down – that place is just way overpriced for at best, mediocre food. seriously, it’s shockingly expensive) and head over to either the city bakery or levain bakery instead. levain makes, almost without argument, the best cookies in new york. city bakery has some of the best french toast you will ever consume, but you gotta go saturday or sunday morning, when they do brunch. i’m a long time reader, never commented, but this is serious enough to come out of the woodwork for, i’m passionate about my city’s eats!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
i am going to nyc in a few weeks, no kids! i am there to eat at all these fun cupcake bakeries i read about! its’ freezing here too. i am cheap, i don’t work so ican wear whatever during the day, our thrift store has most clothes for .25!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
wow that oatmeal looks so amazing and original.
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 7:52 pm
I hate spending money on socks and underwear…I feel like necessities like those should be free! But since they are necessities I stock up at places like Target or TJ Maxx.
I LOVED the peanut butter frozen hot chocolate at serendipity. PB makes everything better! And I ate brunch at the Eatery..very yummy! Have fun!
on Nov 19th, 2008 at 8:14 pm
That oatmeal looks unbelievable! I really love your blog- I have been inspired to start my own and connect with other people who are passionate about living healthy! I’ll definitely continue reading your blog- I look forward to it : )
on Nov 20th, 2008 at 7:52 am
Your NYC interary looks so fun, I may have to borrow it someday, my fiance has NEVER been and I always mean to take him.
I’m with you on workout clothes…I havent bought any new stuff in a LONG time, I just would rather spend it on regular clothes. Also electronics…like for instance I have no desire for a plasma TV but would much rahter buy an awesome bag, or kitchen stuff
on Nov 20th, 2008 at 10:41 am
You guys are making me rethink Serendipity!!! Thanks for all of your alternate suggestions!
Casie,
The winter is tough here in Boston! My best advice is to spend the money on quality gear! You will be happy that you did! Cheap-ish places to buy warm stuff are EMS and REI. EMS occasionally has really great sales. Also, as hard as it is with the freezing cold weather, go out and live your life! Go out with friends, hit the gym, make plans, and try not to stay inside on your couch. I’ve done this many times over the years and it made me so depressed! Hang in there! It’ll be May before you know it!
on Nov 20th, 2008 at 12:39 pm
Tina, I wouldn’t recommend Serendipidy either! Also I’m not crazy about the Eatery. I think I’ve had their salads a few times (take-out… I used to live literally across the street from them) and they weren’t bad, but I had their full dinner and it was way too funky (not in a good way) and their brunch was just ok. Whym, on the other hand, is owned by the same group but is amazing! I’ve been there a bunch of times both for dinner and brunch and never had a bad experience! Sorry if we’re ruining your plans by shutting down your ideas… just trying to be helpful so you have the best weekend possible! I’m sure you’ll have fun regardless
on Nov 20th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
Oh weirdly enough, it’s hard for me to spend money on technology. As long as it works, I want to use it. I had an ipod mini FOREVER… it looked like a monstrosity next to the nanos out there, until I finally caved in and replaced it. Same with my laptops…I wait until there is something seriously wrong with them until I’m finally ready to start putting money away for a new one
Shoes and purses on the other hand is a whole different story! 
on Apr 29th, 2009 at 10:12 am
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