Friday Finds #64: Enjoying the Midwest

Welcome to September! The days are a little shorter, the temperature has dropped about 10 degrees, and the humidity has subsided. All within a few days time. And now it’s Friday which means it’s time to take a look back at the week. I’ve got a couple goodies from the Midwest.

Rudbeckia - Late Summer and Early Fall Perennial

Since I mentioned the Midwest, here where I live we have lots of great paths for walking, biking, or running. Last weekend I decided to add long walks to my exercise routine. I normally go for a run a few times a week, but I decided to add walking, as well.

Some of you may remember that I joined Noom last winter. I lost 15 pounds through the program and it wasn’t really that hard. I’d still like to lose 5 more pounds but I want to do it through exercise as opposed to dieting. I do still watch what I eat (I don’t want to un-learn the good habits I acquired from Noom) but I don’t want to physically track food intake anymore so I’ll rely more on exercise. Besides, I really enjoy walking.

I choose the prettiest paths and neighborhoods for my longer walks, which are 4 to 5 miles on the weekend. During the week I walk 2 to 3 miles per outing. One thing about running – you don’t get to enjoy the scenery as much as you do while walking. But I still like to run in order to strengthen my heart and lungs.

I did join a gym for weight training but I haven’t been as dedicated to that yet. I’m not gonna give up though – I just need to develop a habit of going. I used to lift weights about 5 times a week when I was younger. It’s actually a great way to deal with stress. When I was going through my divorce I’d cry after a set of bench presses when no one was looking. I always felt better afterwards.

I’ve always been pretty active and lucky for me I enjoy exercising. But I’ve always struggled with my weight going up and down. I’ve developed bad habits of eating when I’m bored or emotional. Noom helped me break those habits although I still enjoy my cookies and ice cream on occasion. I mean, who can expect a girl to give those up permanently?

Let’s get onto this week’s Friday’s Finds!

How about we start with a tour of a gorgeous Iowa home with a cool library and a dining room that features William Morris wallpaper?

Fellow blogger and friend Liz Marie shares a living room update in her Michigan home. Her entire farm and home are absolutely breathtaking. I love everything she does and one of these days I’m going to take another trip to Michigan to visit her store, Found Cottage located in Hudsonville.

And while we’re on the subject of travel, you might be interested in visiting one of the towns that made the cutest small towns in North Carolina list.

Are you a fan of the updated traditional look? According to My Domaine, it’s not going anywhere soon, which makes me happy. I love traditional style homes and decor. It really never goes out of style.

I’ll end with this collection of Friday Finds with pretty country home exteriors in Australia. Maybe some day I’ll take a trip to the land down under. I’ve always wanted to see a koala bear in person (and not at the zoo).

Enjoy your Labor Day weekend! I’ll be watching my grandson’s football game on Monday. He’s in his sophomore year of high school (and yes, he started driving) and plays right guard on defense.

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4 Comments

  1. Congrats on your weight loss, I’m sure you looked great before but if it makes you happy then congrats are in order:0)
    Me being a 56 yr. old who used to be a gym rat with my husband I feel you about the weight lifting and exercise. I’m still doing pretty good with my at home exercise but like you I enjoy getting out for a walk especially with my ear buds and some music. I still do 2 miles on my treadmill here at home 5 days a week which helps me get that cardio in. My knees began to ache a bit so I slowed that outdoor running down a couple years ago. Have you tried Barre? I don’t like group exercise anymore and prefer at home and one exercise that has helped me tremendously is Cathe Friedrichs Turbo Barre.look on Amazon…only need a chair and some 5-10lbs weights. Wonders for my tummy and hips..I thought I had to do much more but ya don’t. I can watch HGTV and work out!

    Now..those small towns in NC? Right up my alley! I’m saving those as that’s what we look for in hopes of retiring somewhere by with quaint shops and local eateries we could possibly walk to. Love those! Maybe something in our budget? Fingers crossed.

    Michigan looks like the perfect place to live. So many small quaint little shops but that cold weather..ugh! I still want to visit though. So happy for you that you get to take these nice trips around. Enjoy!

  2. That Iowa home is a stunner, really enjoyed seeing it. You are admirable to maintain your activity level. I do all right with the food part, but admit to being a little lazy on the workout part. I always enjoyed weight lifting most of all. Haven’t been to the gym since covid began, still waiting! We do have a mini trampoline and cds for various workouts..should I get myself to do those things. Luckily the dog needs some walks.

  3. I love to walk, use to do weight lifting and jogging. I am 70 years old and do my walking 3-4 times a week.I love these Friday finds and that Iowa home was the best. Have a blessed Labor Day weekend and have fun at the football game.

  4. Loved the Iowa home and those Australian houses. I looked at the interiors of several and some are magnificent. Thanks!