Gimme Some Oven’s Pumpkin Spice Cake

Oh man, this picture makes me want to head downstairs and just spend the day baking. It’s been a long week in these parts but luckily, in just a few hours, we will have made it to the weekend. As I shared on Instagram yesterday, my method of staying sane and energized during even the busiest weeks is ensuring that I make time for my daily workout. In addition to workouts, Bo and I are also prioritizing sleep during these busy weeks. Last night we were in bed by 8:30 pm! It sounds crazy but we could barely keep our eyes open while watching television and we knew that was a sign that our bodies needed the sleep.

This weekend I have a long run with Abby as well as a spin workout during the Dare to Bare event on Sunday in Union Square. Otherwise our plans include a double date in Williamsburg and relaxing.  Now, let’s dive into this week’s edition of Friday Favorites, including recipes, articles, posts and other things that caught my eye this week.

• My parents visit next weekend is the perfect excuse to make this cake.  My mom and I love spending time in the kitchen together and not only does it look incredible but it only takes 10 minutes to make!
• During the Fall you can find me sipping this on the weekends.
• I love sending flowers and hand written notes to friends and family. This is currently my favorite flower delivery service (Use the code FIRSTBLOOMS for $5 off your first order!)and these are my favorite note cards right now.
• Since I’m working from home each day next week, I think I’ll use these tips to make a huge salad on Sunday to enjoy each day for lunch.
• Did you see that now you can now book races on ClassPass? Even better news is that in most cases, the entries are discounted!
• Lately Tina has upped her blogging game, delivering great video content to followers on Facebook. I did this workout earlier this week and loved it! Follow her on Facebook for weekly workout ideas and more!
• This v-neck top is flattering enough for date night but comfortable enough for the weekends. At less then $25 it is a great everyday piece that I’ve been loving for more than a year!
• A year after I first discovered this lip gloss, it’s still my favorite.
• If you’re a sucker for Fall and candles, you’ll love this warm, spicy aromatic candle. I purchase three at the beginning of the season as I love burning it at our entryway as well as in my home office.
• Last Friday I had the chance to shop at the new Six:02 in Herald Square. Owned by Foot Locker, Six:02 brings together women’s athleisure and active wear from multiple brands under one roof.  The helpful and knowledgeable staff made shopping a pleasure. I ended up purchasing a tank, crops and these shoes. Thanks to the brand for providing a gift card which covered the cost of the tank and shoes.
• Another week, another deep, ruby nail polish that I’m loving for Fall. During the Fall season I tend to avoid shellac and stick with regular polish since I love changing things up each week!
• There are so many great events coming up in NYC:
  • Dare to Bare in Union Square – Dare to overcome insecurities and ride with me and thousands of other women on Sunday in Union Square. I’ll be there for the 11 AM Soul Cycle ride.  Click here to register!
  • Rock’n’Roll Brooklyn – Registration closes on Sunday for this great half marathon which leads runners through the streets of Brooklyn and finishes in picturesque Prospect Park.  I have no clue what my time will be for these 13.1 miles but look forward to running and enjoying the morning with friends! Use the code HEALTHYHAPPIERBEAR to save!
  • 2016 Brooklyn Greenway 5k and Half Marathon – This scenic race takes runners along the Brooklyn waterfront while supporting the expansion of the Brooklyn Greenway, which when complete will provide runners and walkers alike with 14 miles of paved and landscaped paths.  I was hoping to sign up for the 5k but as it’s already sold out, I’m considering doing the half marathon since it’s so convenient and sounds like a great race!

Last but not least, I am putting together a great giveaway to celebrate hitting 6k followers on Instagram in partnership with some of my favorite brands. I would love if you’d follow me as I’m just 36 followers away! 

Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored and instead is a list of the things of my favorite things this week. As normal, it includes lots of beauty and fashion items which means there are a few affiliate links via ShopStyle. It takes time and money to maintain a blog so I thank you for the support and few cents that come from clicking through the links!