UsedEverywhere.com

Top 10: Workout Gear

Sure, bathing suit season is over, but health is a year-round thing, people! Turns out you can get pretty much everything you need to get lean and mean on your local Used site (I’ll pretend to be surprised if you do too)!

1. Sneakers, and fancy pink ones at that! The treadmill won’t know what hit it.

2. Nothing like a yoga mat in a bright colour to get your up for that early morning class! Coffee is also helpful, though less colourful (usually).

3. Hate the gym? If you’d rather get teeth pulled than hang out in a weight room (or “the body shop” as they call it at my gym – clever), maybe a pair of at home dumbbells is more your speed. Perhaps this is why there are commercials, for workout breaks?

4. Being cold and wet to and from your workout destination? That’s just silly. Keep warm and stylish in an awesome jacket pre and post-workout.

5. Maybe I’m biased because I’d love a pair of these, but nothing ruins a workout faster than wet feet. Keep those toes work-out ready in some rainboots.

6. Water bottle? Check. Towel? Sneakers? Check. Lock for locker? Check. Gym pass? Check. This gym bag will fit everything you need and then some.

7. Hitting the pool? Keep your wet bathing suit away from the other contents of your bag with this nifty little contraption. Sure, a plastic bag will work as well as this wet bathing suit pouch but it’s a) cuter and b) better for the environment. Win-win!

8. As they say, timing is everything. Keep track of yours with an athletic watch.

9. Nothing sucks more than a heavy, sweat-soaked cotton t-shirt weighing you down. A workout tank like this one with that magical “sweat wicking technology”  lets you move and keeps you… less sweaty.

10. The wonders of technology: with this little gadget your iPod can tell you how your run is going. Sport kit, brilliant!

Halloween, Real Life Edition

There is probably nothing worse than spending a ton of money on a Halloween costume you know you’ll never wear again – with the exception of maybe next Halloween. Here’s a wild idea: let’s talk about Halloween costumes from stuff you already have or things that are generally useful in your wardrobe.

1. Pinstripe pants On Halloween: pair with with a fedora, a white tank top, pumps and suspenders and there you have it, a 1940′s gangster (fake pistol optional but not advisable if you’re heading out, well, in public). In real life: pair with a button-down, cardigan and colourful pumps for the office.
2. Pleather leggings Considered scary and tacky by some and stylish and fun by others, there’s no denying this item has serious costume potential. On Halloween: There’s actually two options! Either tough-looking high-heel boots, a black top and a cat mask or ears to transform into Catwoman, or an off the shoulder black top, curly hair and red pumps and lipstick to become Sandy from Grease. In real life: pair with a tunic-length (read: longer and tush-covering) white shirt, black blazer and cute flats for a modern pseudo-suit.
3. Gladiator sandals I know you have a pair of these in your closet! On Halloween: pair with an empire-waist white maxi dress, gold jewellery and a wreath of leaves on your head and you’re an enchanting Greek goddess. In real life: pair with… well, pretty much anything. They might be out of season now, but when summer rolls around again you’ll be wearing them daily.
4. Horizontal stripes On Halloween: grab a navy and white horizontal stripe top, pair with white or navy pants, red pumps and a Captain’s hat and there you have it, a sophisticated sailor! Oh, maybe toss an anchor necklace on for good measure. In real life: top the shirt with a blazer, a great scarf and finish off with dark skinny jeans and boots and you have a look that is quite Parisian indeed.
5. To round out the top 5, I’m going to share my personal favourite Halloween costume.  It might not be overly surprising that I’ve gotten made fun of because of my name a few times, but a few years back I decided to make fun of myself. I borrowed a green dress from a friend, wrapped a fake plastic snake around my neck, put flowers in my hair, found some apple earrings and even carried around Barbie and Ken to become… The Garden of Eden! See how clever I am? I knew you’d think so. A variation of this costume would be to lose the snake and dolls and grab some wings, and then you’re a fairy! Or… a butterfly. Ah, overwhelmed by the choices.

creative commons image courtesy of madgerly

Work It Baby, Work It

My jacked arms are going to look great in this tank... if I survive the push-ups

Life gets really crazy sometimes. Things change, holidays approach and pass; you move, you get busy, you get bored. But there comes a time when you have to be real with yourself and say, “Ugh… I have to go back to the gym.”

I had that realization recently, after a summer of fun and hard work and a substantial neglect of my health. Sure, I’d make it to the treadmill once in a while, but July rolled around and even that seemed to fall apart. I went for the occasional jog although I admit that I hate running outside when I’m out of shape. I even popped in some of my mom’s workout DVD’s when I was visiting her in PEI (don’t laugh – that Jillian Michaelsmakes a mean 20 minute workout). But it wasn’t until I got home that I decided to get serious… I joined a gym. One of those hardcore ones, not even the ones I’m used to. As in, the community centre weight rooms or University gyms that I always seemed to attend at the same time as the rowing team’s training sessions (involving lots of yelling from the coaches, not unlike my dear friend Ms. Michaels).

Nope, I joined one of those gyms that has a schedule of classes that runs from 6 am to 10 pm almost every day. The kind with real life trainers and their own line of protein bars. I had measurements done, VO2 max tested, and even stepped on a scale that spat out a piece of paper informing my trainer that I was dehydrated (science!). Why would I engage in such health masochism, you ask? Maybe I got tired of being in pretty decent shape. I guess it just wasn’t cutting it anymore, so I did the unthinkable and got… a trainer.

I made the mistake of telling the girls at the gym that I’m a soccer player. That news spread like wildfire, and the lovely trainer Katherine got wind of it as well. She saw me and said, “Ah, so you’re the soccer player? Strong legs, I like it.” After a couple sets of exercises she said, “Hm, you’re one of those girls who could squat for days, hey? Let’s do some push-ups.”

Ladies and gentlemen, she’s found my weakness. Modified push-ups. And burpees, which involve modified push-ups. I know what you’re thinking, and yes I did bring this upon myself. I’m going to go ice my arms now.

Stay healthy, my friends.

Top 10 from UsedPEI!

As I mentioned last week, my mom just moved back home to Charlottetown, making the trek across the country from Calgary. Since she drove the whole way (eeek!) with only her little SUV and a trailer, there wasn’t room for a ton of stuff. I took the liberty of making some picks to help her new digs feel more like, well, home!

1. So moving can be kind of a big deal, especially when you travel a pretty vast distance. A great photo frame will keep old memories fresh and maybe even make room for some new ones (was that too cheesy?! Whoops)!

Best of friends... on the wall!

2. My little sister was feeling a bit lonesome when they arrived on the island, so they decided to get a new puppy! Her name is Bella and she’s very, very sweet but she’s only 12 weeks old and she’s growing fast. A new kennel will help with growing pains for ‘Lil B.’

A great kennel for the pup!

3. A mirror (or a few) is pretty much a no-brainer for decor; it makes a small space appear larger, it goes with all your other furniture and… it helps prevent awkward lettuce-in-teeth situations. Perfect!

Mirror, mirror on the wall...

4. My sister just started at a new junior high and she could use a great study space. This desk would be a perfect fit in the spare room, aka “Lexy’s Office,” now hop to it little lady, those books aren’t going to read themselves!

School's back in - study time!

5. No lulu in PEI! That’s okay, mom and sis will just have to get their workout wear fixes on UsedPEI.com!

Sweat in style, girls!

6. We have a pretty big family, and rumour has it that Mom has been volunteered to host Christmas dinner this year. Some folding chairs will be necessary to accommodate everyone (understatement!).

Family dinners are right around the corner!

7. Although Calgary winters can get pretty darn cold, we’ll have to see how different an Atlantic winter will be! Better get a warm coat, just in case.

Warm and chic in a peacoat

8. As I mentioned, my sister’s back at school now and this  backpack will be perfect for holding books, lunches, P.E. gear, iPods, cell phones… essentially, everything.

No excuses for forgetting homework at school!

9. I personally don’t get the whole water cooler thing, but my mom insists she needs one. Since I’m a fantastic daughter, I found one.

Drinks (of water) for everyone!

10. We’re big on movie nights at my mom’s place, thus a great couch is of utmost importance. I’m hoping you can vacuum popcorn out of this guy pretty easily…

Neutrals DO go with everything...

Heading Home

Although my upbringing is planted firmly on the West Coast, my roots are in the East. Deep in the East Coast. So as I sway in the limbo between school and work, I was convinced by my mother (expert negotiator) to make the trek across the country to see everyone. After all, she had just moved back “home” after spending 13 years in Calgary. Plus I hadn’t been back in three years. And you know, everyone is so proud of me (I think you’re beginning to see what I was up against in my negotiation).

So here I am: Hellooooo Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island!!

Bet you didn’t know I was seafood connoisseur with Acadian roots! I’ve even seen not one but two Anne of Green Gables musicals. Two, my friends. All right, no more bragging but I am very proud of where I come from. Imagine my surprise when I found out that UsedPEI.com is one of the most popular Used sites! This led to some scheming on my part, and since my mom has never used a delightful Used site and she’s still missing some furniture for her new pad, I thought I might try to acquaint her. If the rest of my family gets on board as well, then that’s just as well. I’ll let you know how it goes!

creative commons image courtesy of Rick McCharles

Back to… Something Else?

We’ve been talking a lot of back to school on the UsedBlog, and rightfully so. It’s kind of a big deal, after all! I chatted about high school and university preparations while Andrea gave some perspective on the countdown from the younger set side.

For the first time in a whopping 16 years, I will not be heading back to school next week. This is something that, to be honest, has rattled me a bit more than I anticipated that it would. Finishing school (for a while, anyway) presented its own set of challenges; including, but not limited to, being broke and moving back in with (gulp) my parents. Bother upon bothers, never mind being subject to my parents’ rules yet again, what to do with four years worth of stuff?!

Enter a ruthless closet clean out (donated!) and an assessment of what furniture I did, and more importantly, didn’t need. A negotiation with my roommates resulted in me selling them my dining room table and chairs. Just as I was about to post my desk on UsedVictoria.com, a friend posted a Facebook status asking if anyone had one they would be willing to sell. Well that was easier than expected!

On the other side of the ferry ride, I found myself with yet another desk that needed a new home (no more homework for me!). Again, mere moments away from posting on UsedVancouver.com… and my dad decided to take it. No money changed hands there, but since he bought it, I guess it’s fair enough.

Sometimes things just work out.

This isn't my desk, but it could have been!

Top 10 Back to School Items for the High School Student

Ah, high school. So many good times, so much awkwardness. I’ve hunted down some cool Used items that will hopefully make trading in your beach towel for text books a little more bearable…

1. It’s tough to find a great Bag that will take you from class to practice to your part-time job, but I’m thinking this one is up to the challenge.

2. If my brother has taught me anything, it’s that guys love their Sneakers. He’d be drooling over these Jordans for sure, as I’m sure they’d fit in delightfully with the rest of his collection of kicks.

3. A stylish Watch not only looks great, but it virtually eliminates tardiness excuses. No guarantees that the wearer will actually show up on time for anything, they just won’t have an excuse any more.

4. You know what’s fun? Doing homework! Okay, not really (for most people), but an awesome new desk will definitely make life easier when midterms roll around.

5. Athletic Gear to make mandatory Phys Ed blocks a little less painful. Now hurry up, that jump rope isn’t going to skip itself!

6. Nothing says “Back to School” more than a sharp new Polo. That cute girl in Chemistry will totally notice.

7. Back to School always meant new Jeans in my book. Let’s face it, you’ll wear a great fitting pair almost every day!

8. Fall is coming, people! I’m sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but it’s about to become coat season yet again. You may as well get a cute one, because everyone is going to see you in it!

9. Teachers never seem to like the excuse “I can’t hand in my report because my printer broke.” Avoid awkward situations (and failing grades) by getting a great Printer… even if it was your dog/cat/goldfish that ended up eating your beautifully printed Steinbeck paper.

10. Just because I have a Commerce degree doesn’t mean I like numbers. I actually barely passed Math 12… but then had to take more Math in University! Do yourself a favour and get good at it while it’s not overly hard. A Graphing Calculator will help!

Back to School Guide: University Edition

Back to School is coming up pretty quick, seemingly with no regard to the fact that summer has only just arrived in Victoria (who planned that one out, anyway?). It’s an especially stressful time for those that tossed their high school grad caps into the air only a few months ago and are now headed… to University. As a brand-spanking-new grad of higher education myself, I feel I have some insight into the subject. Students, parents, I give you the Back to School Guide: University Edition.

1. The Freshman 15 (or 30, in some cases) is a real thing. Take care of yourself, your immune system (as well as your waistline) will thank you. Also, coffee  ≠ water.
2. Parties (frat or otherwise) tend to be messier than a rained-out rodeo. If it’s dry-clean only, you’re guaranteed to spill beer or pizza or worse on it. If this happens, it will sit on your floor – dirty – until you come home for Christmas and Mom takes care of it. Dry cleaning is expensive and you have more interesting things to do, so leave anything you can’t bear to ruin at home.
3. Ladies: take everything you plan to bring with you, lie it on your bed. Now remove half and put it back in your closet. Seriously. Dorm rooms tend to be small and closets are less than generous. If you decide you need something, have Mom and Dad mail it in your care package.
4. Care packages are awesome (take note, Mom and Dad!). Suggested items: treats and snacks, movies and TV seasons, gift certificates…
5. Napping is key, particularly in first year. The only way I made it to any of my morning classes was by running home and jumping back into bed as soon as they were over (no joke). And on that note…
6. Avoid morning classes if you can. They might seem like a good idea now, but they’re just not.
7. Bring your own bedding and some sort of a foam mattress pad.
8. Think sleep masks and ear plugs are dorky? Your party-animal neighbours do too. Especially the night before a big midterm.
9. Be careful with your phone, iPod, laptop, whatever. Areas with lots of students tend to attract stealing, as I found out in second year (because who goes to school without a laptop these days?!). Lock up your stuff!
10. If you’re going to school away from your hometown, research what you can expect for weather ahead of time. For example, if you’re from Vancouver but moving to Calgary for school, a big coat and boots will be needed. In the reverse scenario, a rain jacket and boots will be needed.

creative commons image courtesy of Robert Gaal

Lament of the Lazy

I don’t have fantastic luck with computers. It could be a lot worse really, but my first laptop outside the family computer was stolen after two years. The second laptop just gradually disintegrated until it was virtually un-usable,  and the third… well, touch wood.

You know what sucks the fun right out of getting a new computer (besides paying for it)? Having to transfer everything over. Sure, it’s not that hard, but it can’t be that easy if I’ve had my newest computer for nearly three months and I haven’t done it yet. And yes, I may be well-versed in the art of procrastination but I always feel like something’s going to go terribly wrong and all of a sudden three hours of my life will be wasted. I understand that this probably makes it glaringly obvious that technology isn’t my thing… nor is reading manuals my thing.

Is it really as bad as I’m making it out to be?

creative commons image courtesy of Sean MacEntee

Epic Battle

My roommates and I try to be good to the environment. We recycle, use green cleaning products, turn the heat all the way off, all that stuff. We even compost.

And that’s where the problem starts. Somehow it escapes us to take out the compost every day or every other day as we should… and things can get a bit gross. Particularly as it has started to heat up in lovely Victoria (finally!), things start to go bad… and I know I don’t have to tell you how gross that is.

All of those factors combined have brought in some new house guests: fruit flies. So small, yet so aggravating. Something about having flies floating around makes your house seem so dirty, even after you’ve power-cleaned the entire place. Trust me, I’ve attempted.

How To Get Rid of Fruit Flies

This is not the most exciting video you’ll ever watch, but it will help you as it helped me! Sorry, little guys. You just weren’t invited.