fithiphealthy

25 THINGS {BY SAYEH}! 5 Sep 2012

This week's 25 things brings us Liz Galballly. If you've ever taken a class with her, you know that leaving 60 minutes with her without being drenched with sweat is basically impossible. She turns up the music, goes hard, does a ton of the reps with you, so you can make sure you're on point, and also manages to keep an eye out and correct your form. If you haven't taken one of her classes, sign up! After all, it IS the goal of the week. In the meantime, you can learn more about her in this edition of 25 things!

1. I am an only child, but I have a lot of cousins and we are all close in age and close with each other.
2. I was born in San Francisco and moved to Philly when I was 3 yrs. old.
3. I ran cross-country in high school. I have always loved running and still do.
4. I also played lacrosse, but I lack the whole hand-eye coordination thing, and was cut from the team!
5. I entered college as a DART major (digital arts), but ended up switching to business my sophomore year.
6. Now I'm in grad school for school counseling and mental health counseling. I finally realized that business isn’t for me and I would rather work helping kids.
7. I live by myself. I used to think that I would always want a ton of roommates, but living by myself is amazing.
8. I carry my iPhone charger in my purse, everywhere I go.
9. I am very superstitious.
10. Zoolander is probably one of my favorite movies – I could watch it over and over.
11. I am not much of a T.V. person; I would rather be out doing something – but I love the days where I can lay on my couch and watch a Real Housewives marathon.
12. I love living in the city.  Especially Philadelphia, because it is so manageable.  NYC stresses me out.
13. I used to take Amtrak every day to NYC right after college for a brief stint in the fashion industry…I thought I wanted to work in fashion up there, but quickly realized it was too cut throat for me.
14. Laying on the beach is one of my most favorite things.
15. I had an awful short hair cut when I was a junior in college. I wanted something a little more on the trendy side… it was so bad that I didn’t want to leave my apartment. Now, I am obsessed with just sticking to long, straight hair.
16. I'm a super OCD neat freak.
    
17. I am afraid of heights.
18. I consider myself a very laid back person.
19. I don’t really worry about big things in life, when I should be worried. Instead, I worry more about stupid, little things in life. But then I get over it pretty quickly.
20. I am dying to go to Croatia for my next big trip.
21. I love the west coast and would love to live in southern California, but I am too close with my family and I know I would get homesick. I get homesick very easily!
22. I have an uncontrollable sweet tooth…I absolutely love sugar…it’s bad.
23. I have a major obsession with Mexican food. I could eat Mexican food for every meal, ever day. I am always craving Mexican food.
24. I don’t really ever cook. I love eating out and trying new restaurants!
25. I am addicted to lithe! It is the best workout I have ever done, and I go through periods of lithe withdrawal when I am away from the studio too long. Being an instructor is the most amazing job ever!

Liz, there is nothing more horrifying than an awful haircut. And not just a haircut that could be better, or is slightly off. I mean a truly botched 'do. I will never forget when it happened to me. I was a hair model for a Toni & Guy show (my best friend's hairdresser convinced me to sign up when I went with her to her appointment). I was seated on a dais in an auditorium full of people. Although we had discussed my haircut before the show (nothing too drastic), he began to hack away at my locks. I was frozen. There was no mirror, and since there was an audience, I was too petrified to speak up and make him stop. So I just watched in horror as ALL of my once shoulder length hair fell to the floor. He gave me a chili bowl (up around my ears) with a slight mullet at the back. I left the studio and just cried and cried. When I got home, my mother jumped at the sight of me. She tried to help by cutting off the mullet part, but then I just had a jagged chili bowl. I wore bandanas that entire year. (Let me know if you'd like to see the photographic evidence). Luckily or unluckily, the same hairdresser that recommended the show to me also ruined my best friend's hair with a similar short disaster, so we had each other to lean on and swap bandanas with. Thanks for sharing your 25 things! It seems that you have definititely found your calling with helping people because you help all of us Lithers everyday. You're an amazing instructor!

See you in class!

 

LITHESTYLE 23 Aug 2012

One of my favorite things about working with and teaching so many women through Lithe is being exposed to a ton of great fashion and beauty secrets. At the front desk, I will notice someone's glowing skin, healthy hair or just plain great style, and ask...what are you using? Or where did you get that? And everyone is always eager to share.

Remember Jeanette's 25 Things where she divulged that she doesn't use shampoo? Here's the whole story!

Back in November last year my hair was in a really a bad state. After just one day of not washing it the roots would get greasy, the ends dry, and the whole thing would look flat and frizzy at the same time. Not a good combination. So I turned to my hair stylist (fellow Lither and owner of Juju Salon) Julie Ebner for help. "Ditch the shampoo" she said. I tried the "letting your hair clean itself" approach (basically not using anything, just a little bit of conditioner), but that didn't work so well for me. I know it's supposed to take a few weeks until your hair starts "cleaning" itself, but with sweating through four or five Lithe classes a week, I needed something to clean my hair with now!

 

I did some research for alternatives to shampoo, and decided to try the baking soda method: Mix one tablespoon baking soda with one cup of warm water in an old shampoo bottle, shake well, and apply that mixture to wet hair, making sure to really massage it in to the roots for a minute or so. One cup is enough for about two washes for my hair. I still use conditioner on the ends, although I may one day try replacing that with an apple cider vinegar rinse. I wash my hair no more than twice a week.

 

This has been my hair care regimen since November 2011. The result? Smoother hair, cleaner roots and softer ends! Not to mention fewer harmful chemicals being absorbed through my scalp, and more money in my pocket. Talk about a win-win situation!

 

Two things to note about washing your hair with baking soda:

 

1) It will not work in hard water. I live in center city Philadelphia where the tap water is fairly soft, so baking soda does a great job. I spent a week in Italy earlier in the year, and trying to wash my hair with baking soda in the hard Umbrian mountain water was a complete disaster; the result was dirty, greasy hair and a grumpy, very un-glamorous feeling Jeanette.

 

2) When mixing the baking soda and water, make sure you use warm, not cold water. For me, it just doesn't seem to clean the hair as well when it has been mixed in cold water.

 

*About three weeks ago, I noticed my hair was not getting clean, no matter how much I washed it. My hair looked and felt the way it had done in Italy. I was convinced that PWD had changed our water supply overnight, as I refused to believe that the baking soda method was failing. After a week of this I finally gave in and bought a very mild, natural cleansing shampoo (from Juju) and washed my hair with it once. Then I went back to the baking soda, which is now working fine again. I later figured out that I probably didn't use warm enough water when mixing the baking soda, but who knows, maybe something really did change in the water...

 

Images of Jeanette Boorstein via Laura Mackie at Old City

 

25 THINGS {BY SAYEH}! 22 Aug 2012

A masculine presence is a rather rare thing at Lithe Method (aside from the devastatingly cute Mars), so when I walked into the Rittenhouse studio for a class a couple of weeks ago, I was surprised to see a bearded face smiling at me from the front desk. Turns out that beard belongs to Fran, the man you have probably also seen if you've been to the RH studio on weeknights or weekends. I figured we must know more about the man behind the beard, so Fran graciously shares with us his 25 things.

1. I was named after my grandfather and uncle, two men I've never met. But, as I'm told, I have many of their traits, including blue eyes. On a related note, I told my aunt when I was 5 years old that my license plate would read "I'll break your heart with my baby blues". Humble, right?
2. Extra or unnecessary exclamation points bother me as a reader. However, and hypocritically, I find myself using them often in emails because I absolutely loathe the absence of tone and potential for misinterpretation with email, and like to convey sincerity and enthusiasm! (<-- note)
3. I am 23 and the youngest of three. My oldest brother is responsible for my first tattoo and my first roller coaster ride, while my middle brother is responsible for making me a godfather and perfecting my resume.
4. I majored in Theology and Italian at Saint Joseph's University. Whenever I was asked what I planned to do with those majors, I would frequently say "pope". It was especially hilarious when people took me seriously.
5. Still, that does not answer the question about my major selections. Theology always fascinated me, especially its role in human behavior throughout history, and the interdisciplinary coursework (anthropology, sociology, neuroscience, etc) really drew me in.
6. As for Italian, I started studying it my freshman year of high school, and my best memory is when we constructed a 3D mural of Venice. Once I got to college, I fell in love with the entire department and took one or two classes every semester. My favorites were Italian theater (yes, we put on a production!),  Italian art history, and a workshop for teaching Italian. 
7. I found out the hard way that a tank-top will get a guy denied from a bar. Twice. 
8. My dream job is to be a chef/restauranteur and nothing makes me happier than cooking for the people I love. I learned the basics from my late grandmother (we were joined at the hip when I was younger), and I got my flare from my momma. If you get my mom and me in a kitchen, you'll want to find a seat at the table STAT. 
9. My twitter handle is iwontbefrank, but really I would. I'm not particular about what name I'm called, as long as it isn't Frannie. A lot of people enjoy giving me nicknames, and the following are real, as in they've been used far too consistently: fritz, franny face, franklin, and francy. 
10. I'm surprised that I've held off until #10 to go into detail about the most precious, perfect baby I call godson! His name is Mark Francis III, he just turned one at the end of July, is a total bruiser, and I might be obsessed. 
11. For my full-time job, I am the development director for an inner-city grade school. It is a fellowship program in its pilot year, so to say it is a grassroots undertaking is an understatement! I absolutely love the idea of setting the precedent.
12. I am a loyal Blackberry user and might not ever switch to iPhone. Despite the nickname potential of "Instafran".'
13. In my junior year of college, I lost over 100 pounds. I followed a restricted calorie diet, high in non-meat proteins and absent of simple carbs, and worked out 6 days/week. In retrospect, I should have entered some sort of weight-loss competition. 
14. I didn't learn how to ride a bike until I was 13 and I will always favor roller blades. 
15. As a kid, I would go off the high dive so often that I'd get nose bleeds. I was a thrill-seeking preteen with an affinity for swimming, heights (and the snack stand). 
16. If I could start a small-business I think it would be a floral shop. I have a knack for arranging bouquets and have yet to find a shop that has a satisfactory variety. If I'm giving someone flowers, it is either a custom-made bouquet or an unusual/exotic potted plant.
17. In high school I traveled to England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, in only 14 days. While London and Dublin lived up to the hype, nothing beat our hiking trip in Wales.
18. “Mission: Nutrition” is the name of the after-school fitness and nutrition club I started with one of the teachers at my full time job. Although it has been much easier getting kids excited for fitness rather than nutrition, one fifth grader became an expert in nutrition labels!
19. My messenger bag will always have the following: American Crew forming cream, mints/whitening gum, and Clinique for Men moisturizer.
20. I played football in grade school and initially freshman year of high school, and tested into the 750 lb. club (bench, squat, deadlift).  Never really loved playing, so I joined/led/restarted a bunch of clubs that I felt passionately about, and ended up being voted “Done most for the school” for the senior choice awards.
21. I started drinking coffee at the age of 12, because my grandmom did and since she lived with us, we were besties (see above, joined at the hip).
22. My “all-time” favorite movie will always be Runaway Jury, because I think it has one of the greatest good-over-evil triumph endings. My “latest” favorite movie is My Week with Marilyn, which I saw at the Ritz.
23. Speaking of the Ritz, I’ve become a huge fan of the Ritz Theaters, 5 being my favorite, ever since I went on the greatest date there 7 months ago…we’re still catching movies there :)
24. Sassafras of Old City is one of my favorite restaurants in Philly. After the Ritz one night, we headed to this bar/restaurant for no good reason except that it was open late.  After raving to my mom about it, she said she knew it well- apparently my uncle (see #1) bartended there for years in the 70s and my mom was a regular and huge fan of their escargot.
25. I have never really gotten into the blog scene, as a reader, until recently. And those getting all of my attention are one of my best friend’s foodie blog, and fithiphealthy. The former is because her personality jumps off the page, and the latter is because of a combination of things. The layout is simple and appealing, the loads of personal anecdotes and stories like the seasonal challenges and Lithe Brides are so honest and uplifiting, and the best feature of all, fithiphealthy generates nothing but positivity.

A creative writing professor of mine once told me that exclamation points were for the lazy writer. That a talented writer didn't need the exclamation point to express emphasis or excitement, that his or her words should do it instead. And while I see his point (no pun intended), I agree with you Fran, it's so hard not to use them. Especially in texts and email. I want to make sure the person knows I'm being happy and upbeat in response. And not being monotone and sarcastic (which I can be), so I sometimes find myself using them way too much. It's a problem. You will have to put on a Lithe themed play about it for everyone soon, in Italian of course. In the meantime, one thing that we don't have to stress about is that fithiphealthy definitely rules, and thanks for adding to the positive vibe for all of us as we come through the studio(!)

See you in class!

 

 

25 THINGS {BY SAYEH}! 8 Aug 2012

In our quest to learn more about every single instructor and Lithe employee that all help us become Fit Hip and Healthy, I bring you Meghan Grauzlis. She joined the instructor roster last year, and has been shaping our bodies every since. Enjoy her 25 things.

1. I am the youngest of my family. I have an older brother who is in graduate school for occupational therapy and a half sister who is a doctor.
2. Before the age of five, I already had nearly sixty stitches. Thirty-five of those stitches were in the middle of my forehead when I ran into a corner of the bar in my house at the age of three. I had to have a plastic surgeon repair my forehead.
3. I am petrified of birds. If a bird gets too close to me while I’m walking around in the city, there is a good chance I will start crying and/or have a small panic attack.
4. I LOVE music and dancing, especially house music.
5. I rescued a Wheaten Terrier, Milo, in 2009.  He is epileptic and is the silliest, sweetest dog in the world. I couldn’t imagine my life without him.
6. Three things guaranteed to be in my handbag are doggie (poop) bags, an eyelash curler, and deodorant. I don’t leave the house without those items.
7. In college, I lived in a house with eight girls. It was a miracle how little drama there was and how it just “worked”.  Despite those years being the most fun in my college career, I have lived alone since I graduated.  
8. I am painted on a mural surfing in Virginia Beach.
9. When I was little, I used to pick out and eat every single marshmallow in a box of Lucky Charms and leave the crusty cereal bits for my brother who loves cereal so much he would eat it for breakfast, lunch and dinner. He would get so mad at me.
10. I love everything Spanish and Mexican—food, wine, culture, location, language, nightlife, everything. Oh, and tequila.
11. At first when I meet people, I am usually quiet and shy, but if you ask any of my close friends that know me, they would say I am always the life of the party.
12. I have always been extremely independent—it is the Sagittarius in me.  I have a difficult time asking people for help.
13. Disney World terrifies me.
14. Both my parents have dark brown eyes, but I have light blue eyes.  I got them from my Grandaddy and my Grandpop.
15. My signature scent is Chloe eau de parfum.  I have been wearing it for years ever since it came out, and I don’t really like to wear anything else.
16. When I was young, I received an award for “Grace Under Pressure” from my rhythmic gymnastics coach. That saying has been something that has stuck with me my entire life. I always perform best under the worst circumstances.
17. I hate mayonnaise.
18. I believe strongly in balance and moderation. I take care of my body, but it is just as important to experience life, try new things, and take risks. I also live by the saying “Everything happens for a reason”.
19. Over recent years I have developed a passion for cooking, but when I meet guys I tell them that I don’t know how.
20. I am allergic to band-aids. They give me a rash, but I use them anyways when I really need one.
21. I applied to fourteen colleges—half of them were business schools and half were art schools known for their dance programs. I ended up getting my degree in Marketing and an MBA in finance.  I have very few regrets in my life, but choosing business over dance is by far my biggest regret.
22. I don’t have a favorite color, but I love black and white together.
23. I am happiest at a beach or in a city.  The suburbs and country give me anxiety.
24. My lucky number is 55.  It was my first ever audition number in the beginning of my dance career.
25. If I could do anything for the rest of my life, I would travel the world on a yacht with all of the people that I love.

Meghan, sign me up for one leg of that yacht trip! I don’t get seasick and will cook to pay my way! I’m extremely jealous that you have a signature scent. I’ve been on a mission to find my signature scent for years now. I have a few favorite perfumes from my earlier years, but since scent is the strongest sense linked to memory, they just take me right back to the time that I wore them, and I find the sensation kind of eerie. I share your fear of birds but not your hate of mayo! Pile it on! That’s my motto. Thanks so much for sharing and for keeping us all in shape, no matter what our mayonnaise consumption.

See you in class!

Image of Lithe Instructor, Meghan Grauzlis via Dom and Instagram

25 THINGS {BY SAYEH}! 1 Aug 2012

 

 This week’s 25 Things comes to us from Katie Connelly. Most of the time, you will find her at the Old CIty studio, but if your schedule isn’t taking you there in the near future, learn a little more about her now.

1. I moved here from Cleveland in December for my fiancé’s job and I must say, I LOVE Philadelphia. My favorite thing thus far, aside from all of the historical stuff, the great restaurants, and the beautiful parks, is the abundance of delicious hot pretzels, readily available at any time of day.

2. There is nothing better than discovering new places and cultures. I love going somewhere new and immersing myself in the culture. Trying ALL of the food, experiencing the nightlife, meeting the locals, and trying to speak the language. It’s my favorite way to travel.

3. I attended Ohio State University and majored in Cultural Studies. I also attended 6 other colleges prior to completing my degree. Clearly, I lacked focus. But each school and each new city taught me something invaluable about myself. In hindsight, I wouldn’t change a thing.

4. While in school I spent a lot of time studying the world’s religions. Religion absolutely fascinates me and I love to read about all of the different explanations of where we came from and our purpose in life and see how they intertwine.

5. Whether on a fishing boat with my dad on the lake or catching some waves in the ocean, my ultimate happy place is in the water.

6. I think I have been a lot of things in other lives.

7. I met my fiancé, Ryan, in kindergarten and had a huge crush on him all through grade school. I used to pray that I would marry him. It took 25 years, but my prayers have been answered. We are getting married August 18th :)

8. I might have the best family in the world. I have an older sister and a younger brother and they are my best friends. Along with my wonderful parents, they have always been supportive of me and shown me unconditional love throughout my life, even when I didn’t deserve it. I cannot imagine a life without them.

9. When my brother was 21 he had an accident and broke his neck. The initial prognosis was that he probably would never walk again. However, in rehab he denied “wheelchair classes”, insisting that he would not need a wheelchair. After two months, he became the first person to ever walk out of the Spinal Cord Rehab Unit at Metro Hospital (he used a walker, but still). Now he lives in Asia as a photographer and a teacher and truly lives life to the fullest. Whenever things in my life seem difficult, I think of his unwavering spirit and know that I can get through anything. He is my greatest inspiration.

10. Abraham Lincoln said, “Whatever you are, be a good one.” I try to make this my mantra for life.

11. Before I was able to talk, I could sing. When I was young my nickname was Tweety Bird because I was always singing. I had a short stint as a singer in a band a few years ago (though I had to bow out due to severe stage fright) and I still love to sing and play the guitar or piano.

12. I credit my parents with my very deep love and appreciation for music. I love everything from gospel to Iggy Pop.

13. I learned to ski when I was 3.

14. I was an Irish dancer for almost 10 years.

15. I grew up surrounded by about 20 first cousins that I regard as brothers and sisters. We would take a family vacation to South Carolina each summer and all stay in ONE house (30+ people) on the beach. I have so many wonderful memories from these trips and they are by far some of my fondest memories from life. We still go on this trip, and it is just as fun as when we were kids.

16. A group of my cousins and I still  travel together. So far we have tackled North America, Central America, Europe and Asia. Next year we plan to add South America to that list.

17. While in Honduras a few years ago I completed my scuba diving certification. Sitting on a sand patch 40 feet underwater with eels, turtles and barracudas swimming around you is a truly intense and awesome experience.

18. I hate wearing shoes. When I was 20 I lived in Arizona and hardly ever wore shoes all year long. I even hiked down the Grand Canyon without shoes. There is something about being aware of every step that you take that really connects you to life.... I miss those days.

19. I wish I would have gotten into race car driving.

20. I LOVE SALT!!!!!!!! I know it is almost completely horrible for you, but I can’t help it.

21. I have a penchant for trying new foods and will try almost anything. Some weird stuff  that comes to mind are bugs, fried worms, teriyaki frogs and lots of organs. The stranger the better.

22. I have an irrational fear of rodents and road kill.

23. As a child I wanted to be a missionary. I was very affected by the famine in Africa and wanted to help feed the starving kids. My mom told me that I would take the little cardboard piggy bank from UNICEF and go around the neighborhood collecting donations. My dad has always called me a bleeding heart. I can think of worse things to be.

24. When I hear a story or see a clip of someone getting injured, I get almost unbearable sympathy pains.

25. Last but not least, I love Lithe. When I saw the job posting for Lithe Method and started doing some research, I quickly realized that I had found something unique. Being new to town, I thought that at the least, it would be a good place to meet some nice girls. What I found was so much more than that. Lithe is a community made up of strong and intelligent women, from nurses to lawyers to artists and everything in between. It is a group of women that have at least one thing in common which is  the desire to challenge themselves. To push themselves farther than they did the time before. They say what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger and here at Lithe that can be taken literally. I am so inspired by these women and feel very lucky to be a part of something so special. Happy Lithing!!

Nuff said, Katie!

Image of Lithe Old City Manager, Katie Connelly via Lauren

25 THINGS {BY SAYEH}! 4 Jul 2012

As Lithe continues to grow, so do the group of women who help us choose the Lithe foods that nourish us, answer our myriad and pressing questions about class, and generally make us smile as we walk in and out of various studios across the city. Thank you to Laura Mackie for this 4th of July edition of 25 Things!

1. If I could make a living out of assembling Ikea furniture and untangling knots, I'd be set for life.
2. Instead I've opted for being an esthetician, since there didn't seem to be a promising future in knots.  My true passion is skincare (I've been using anti aging products since I was 14).  I've wanted my own line for as long as I can remember...it might not be too long before I get wish!
3. I absolutely love researching.  I don't make a decision or buy anything without knowing everything about it.  I once lost two afternoons researching cat food.  It's exhausting being crazy.
4. Speaking of being crazy, I'm a bit of a crazy cat lady.  We have two kittens, a mama and a baby named Padmé and Leia.  They have such distinctive personalities and funny interactions with each other; I could watch them all day.
5. I love the idea of cooking and wished that I loved actually doing it.  I'm (mostly) Italian and everyone in my family cooks, but I can't get into doing it on a daily basis.  I leave most meal preparations to my boyfriend, Dimitri.  He is an absolute marvel in the kitchen.
6. I believe in signs and that everything happens exactly as its supposed to.  I'm also a touch superstitious.
7. I can't send a text message that doesn't have the appropriate words capitalized, proper punctuation and all the words spelled out in their entirety.  But I have to tack on an "lol", "haha" or a smiley face on the end.  If not, I feel like they sound too serious.
8. I am the ultimate power nerd.  My favorite books are of the fantasy genre and I'm most often listening to the classical broadway show tunes station on Pandora.  The list could go on.
9. When I'm lifting something really heavy (or doing the umpteenth rep with the bands) my upper left lip raises up in an Elvis like fashion.  It's uncontrollable like a muscle spasm!  Does this happen to anyone else??
10. I don't get down with chemicals (one of the reasons I want to create my own skincare line).  I make my own cleaning supplies, deodorant, sunscreen, toothpaste...just about everything you put on your skin.  I don't miss any of the old stuff.  Except toothpaste, using homemade toothpaste is really a labor of love.
11. I love love stories.  I'm a super sappy, over emotional person who cries over everything so I like my movies to have happy endings and for everyone to be in love.  Favorite love story movie: Dangerous Beauty.
12. I tend to use run on sentences, I love words (sometimes I make up my own) and I hate grammar.
13. I'd love to be totally self sufficient one day.  Live in a house I built, eat food that I grew and wear clothes that I've made.  I'm trying to hunt down a sewing machine on Craigslist so I can get started, one goal at a time.
14. I absolutely love scary movies right up until they start.  Then I get gripped by this awful sense of terror and wonder why I ever wanted to watch this movie.  It's a vicious cycle.  
15. When my dad was growing up he was nicknamed the human garbage disposal.  My sister and I have unfortunately inherited his voracious appetite.
16. I can't sing at all.  Not even a little.  But I will enthusiastically sing along to every song.  Probably because I've always dreamed of being in musical theatre.  Too bad I have a terrible fear of doing anything at all in front of people.  Sigh.
17. I'm looking for a good book on meditation.  I desperately want and need for it to become a part of my daily routine, my mind is never quiet and I just need to shut it up sometimes :-).
18. I feel like I am always saying "I don't know what possesses me!" in response to something really strange I've just done.
19. My job at Lithe is the perfect example of things happening just as they're supposed to.  I've been a long time Lithe admirer from afar (I used to live in NJ...which seems like afar with a $5 toll looming over every trip), and a loyal FitHipHealthy reader for a few years.  I had recently started a job that was supposed to be full time and only turned out to be part time.  As a result I was feeling really downtrodden and bummed to still be hunting for a job.  One day after reading the latest blog entry I was musing out loud how I wished I could just work for Lithe, a company that I loved everything about.  Lo and behold I opened up Craigslist and the very first listing was for an opening at Lithe.  Serendipitous!  I couldn't be more thankful or feel any luckier to work with such wonderful people and to be a part of a company with such an amazing message.
20. In 2006 I was in a car accident (sleeping and driving aren't the best combo) that broke every bone in my right leg.  I'll always have a titanium rod in my femur and like to tell people in the bionic woman.  
21. I talk too much.  Plain and simple.  Oddly enough that statement is my shortest and least rambly of all my 25 things.
22. I can't stand mayonnaise.  I can't even smell it!  But I love tuna salad, egg salad, potato salad, all the salads.  Go figure.
23. I've always wanted to go back to school to become a librarian.  Librarian by day, skincare chemist by night and seamstress by weekend!
24. I love reading. I'd read all day and night.  I'd stay up late at night with a flashlight reading under the covers and blow off weekend plans when I was older to finish a good book.  My mother used to forbid me from bringing a book in the car because she was afraid I'd never develop a sense of direction if I didn't pay attention to my surroundings.  She was right.
25. I don't love being photographed. I tend to ruin it by hiding or making a silly face.  That explains my picture above.  I couldn't bring myself to take one of myself so I decided on this picture that my boyfriend took last night at dinner in Florida.  The only way to get a picture of me is if I'm not paying attention!

Laura, I don’t do the Elvis lip thing, but I do this other weird lip thing where I roll my entire top lip under and expose my gums and teeth in an effort to gather more strength somehow, but I just look frightening! And I’m totally with you on number 17, my brain will NEVER shut up. I actually went to the library 2 weeks ago to find a book on mediation. NO DICE. I went home, and donated to the Free Library. I figure I use it enough, and maybe they can score me a book on meditation. Glad there’s another book nerd in the Lithe family!

See you in class!

Image of Laura Mackie via Laura

25 THINGS {BY SAYEH}! 23 May 2012

 

In our quest to get to know all the helpful faces, new and veteran, at each of the Lithe studios, I bring you Samantha Stephens, a relative newbie from Rittenhouse. Greeting you and dispensing nutritious and delicious Lithe foods is only part of her game. She’s a woman of many talents and interests, so here’s 25 conversation pieces to put in your arsenal for the next time you see her.  

1. I was named after the character Samantha Stephens from Bewitched. When people realize that my first and last names are the same as the character they usually ask if I can wiggle my nose.
2. I have a younger brother named Sheldon. He is four years younger and about 4 inches taller than me.
3. It took me until last year to realize that my middle name is a common surname; McKenzie.
4. I minored in French in college, but I’ve never been out of the country.  I don’t even have a passport.
5. I played the violin all throughout middle school and high school. I don’t play anymore and was very shy when it came to playing solos.
6. I was a bit of a child actor. I was in a few commercials as a baby.
7. I find most rap music comical. Especially anything by Lil Wayne.
8. I just started Lithing and always go through a roller coaster of emotions during classes. At first I think, “ok, this isn’t so bad.” Next, “Oh man, why am I doing this?! This is so hard.” Then, “Wow! I can’t believe I’m still going! I can do like ten more reps.” Finally, “I’m so beat. That was so fun. I’m going to be so sore tomorrow. I wonder what class I can sign up for next?”
9. I don’t like being called Sam or Sammy.
10. I believe a vacation should be a minimum of 5 days.
11. I used to tell people at parties that my name was Kendal.
12. I shop at Trader Joes every other day. It’s one my favorite stores.
13. I never leave the house without my Kiehl’s lip balm. If for some strange reason I don’t have it, I will go back home to get it.
14. I bought my first sports bra after starting my job here.
15. Because I don’t have a car, most people think I don’t know how to drive. I do, and I have a clean record.
16. I don’t like bananas.
17. I went to Quaker school for a few years as a kid. I think that’s why I’m into nature and have a bit of a hippy dippy attitude.
18. I’m not really into sports, but I love watching the Olympics.
19. I love a good adventure. Most places I travel too, I want to live.
20. Anytime I go to sleep I dream, even when I take a quick nap.
21. I met Patti LaBelle about two years ago and it changed my life. I always loved her and when I found out that she lived in Philly, I always thought it would be so cool to meet her. I ran into her at King of Prussia mall when I worked there. She was so nice to me and let me take a picture with her. After that, I have always believed that any dream you have is possible.
22. I startle easily. Just ask Lauren.
23. I really like to watch people sing karaoke.
24. I have been a fan of black & white movies ever since I was kid.
25. My favorite Lithe Foods are: Carrot Cake Oatmeal, Sweet n’ Spicy Rice Bowl, Mojito, Carrot Ginger Lemonade, Cookie Dough Truffles, Greek Pita Salad, Bikini Salad, Pizza Bites, and Pan Seared Tofu.

Samantha, you are my hero because Patti LaBelle is your hero. I once saw her on MTV Cribs, where she whipped up the most amazing, decadent spread of soul food I’ve ever seen. I’m pretty sure there was gravy on everything. I was drooling, and decided that I needed to somehow get a spot at her dinner table. Since y’all are best buds, think can you score me an invite? Sweet! No need for the health conscious to panic at the prospect. Like Paula Deen, the other queen of decadence, Patti LaBelle recently learned she has diabetes, and has drastically changed her diet, revamping all her recipes to reflect her new, healthy lifestyle without losing that soulful taste. I’m certainly on board with that fit, hip and healthy inspiration.

See you in class!

Image of Rittenhouse Studio Manager, Samantha Stephens at Lithe Old City via Lauren

25 THINGS {BY SAYEH}! 16 May 2012

 

As our beloved Lithe community grows and expands, more and more new faces are flooding the studios. From new instructors, to new faces behind the counter, it seems like I’m meeting new people daily. With each new person comes a new story, and something unique to add to the Lithe family. Kristin Koefoed, one of these newcomers, tell us a little more about herself.

1. Mine is the little tan hand behind the little brown pen that writes out all the Lithe Foods labels at Lithe, and I'm the little brunette with the asymmetrical hair that says Hello! to you at Northern Liberties and Old City.
2. I love cartoons. My aspiration is to become a famous cartoonist and have my own cartoon show. From there I will revive the awesomeness that was 90's Nickelodeon, cause kids today deserve better!
3. My parents took me to Philly for my birthday when I was about 7. We walked past the University of the Arts on Broad Street, and I told them, "I'm going to school there!" They did what good parents do and just agreed. A decade later, it was the only school to which I applied and I refused to take my guidance counsellor's advice on safety schools. As it turned  out, little me really was a bit psychic and I now have my BFA.
4. I've worked a number of jobs as a face-painter and arts & crafts instructor for children in New Jersey and Philly, and they've been some of the most uplifting experiences I've ever had.
5. I like to dress up for holidays, even (especially) if there's no costume party. Those of you who took classes at Old City on Easter may remember my bunny ears with justifiably in-fashion white faux fur vest. I was so excited we had the Carrot Ginger Lemonade to complete my ensemble!
6. My whole life has been spent on the stage. My first play was in 2nd grade (I was an Evil Magic Flower) and I never hesitated to jump at a casting call or a request for volunteers from a Colonial Williamsburg Player. I also danced for 13 years, doing tap, jazz, some hip hop, ballet, and my specialty: pointe.
7. I did fencing for a little while in high school. The teacher was this totally awesome metal dude, and gave me the best compliment, I think, ever when he said I was a "natural born warrior." I like to call on this memory whenever I go through one of those little stressful phases Life throws at you to keep you paying attention :)
8. Growing up, the other kids never got my jokes. But the teachers did. To this day, I relate more to people my parents' age than my own.
9. My kind of humor is observational and sarcastic, which sometimes gets me into trouble when I try to kid with people who don't know me that well.
10. I love chicken something ridiculous. I don't like eating animals that look back at you, but a chicken pooped on my hand when I was little so I think part of me is still mad.
11. Working at Lithe has been one of the most beneficial resources and biggest inspirations to me as far as forcing myself to accept that I am not superhuman and do need proper nutrition, sleep, and lifestyle on top of however much exercise I may pride myself on. After years of self-delusion, I've come to terms with the fact that even if you can run from Queen Village to the Zoo and back, no problemo, you still aren't allowed to flood your system with ice cream, candy, and coffee on a regular basis and call yourself healthy.
12. My exercise playlist includes the soundtracks to Kill Bill 1 and 2, as well as classic hits like “Eye of the Tiger” and Joe Esposito's “You're the Best.”
13. If you ever take a class when I'm working at Northern Liberties, chances are I'm standing on a phone book behind the desk.
14. I was born in the first hospital in America, right here in Philadelphia. My mom and dad used to call it the Kristin Store, which always made me curious as to what the selection was like.
15. One time I tried to run away in Toys 'R' Us because I wanted to live there. I figured they had a kitchen set, a little house, and I was set. When my finally dad caught me, in a last ditch effort, I yelled "He's not my daddy!" I was about 2 or 3. I wasn't allowed back in Toys 'R' Us after that, so I formed a strong love for the giant LCD Tic Tac Toe game at the Kids 'R' Us next door.
16. I am very good at Tic Tac Toe to this day.
17. Although I never had a fancy gaming system growing up (unless you count a hot pink Gameboy Color, with Pokemon Yellow and the Simpsons Treehouse of Horror games), sometimes my dad would take me and my mom to Ocean City and let me loose in Jilly's Arcade with a bag of quarters that weighed as much as I did. These trips were how my parents helped me deal, when little me would get frustrated by the things that frustrate kids.  18. One game I'll never play is the Cool Game. The rules are different on every field, and I have too much to do to keep them all straight!
19. My alltime favorite show is The X-Files. I own the I Want To Believe poster and I have two sets of Agent Scully and Mulder action figures that I got for my 12th birthday... one set still packaged and one set I can actually play with.
20. I have two furry babies. Sigmund Salvatore Stardust (Ziggy for short) is a 5 month old Mini-Daschund, and Cuy Valdar is a one year old Guinea pig.
21. I will never be able to live anywhere more than an hour from the sea. It's such an incredible feeling to be able to stand at the edge of the water, watching the horizon dance in the early morning before everyone else is awake.
22. I want to live near forests and mountains as well though, because I want every environment as an option for potential adventures. This is why I have the West Coast as part of my Long Term Goal list.
23. Right after I live in NYC for 2-3 years.
24. Right after I learn a form of martial arts.
25. I want to learn and see everything. I want to go everywhere. I want to travel the world, and I try to live poor so I can save up to do that someday.

Kristin, 90s Nickelodeon is basically responsible for the entire basis of my sense of humor today. Watching kids with Canadian accents get slimed, tell scary stories in the dark, and search through a hidden temple for random fake relics was really quality programming. To this day, I try to tell people that there was a cartoon on the network that involved a little girl who used to fly through the air with two of her stuffed animals (koala bears?) that would come to life when she touched noses with them. No one knows what I’m talking about. I’m starting to think I imagined it. If you ever need a pal to watch old episodes of Eureka’s Castle, I’m your girl.

See you in class!

In-Studio Image of Kristin via Sayeh

25 THINGS {BY SAYEH}! 9 May 2012

A long time Lither, Rosemary is my hero! When I began 4 years ago, I was a hot mess (and still am as exampled today in class when Lauren was actually concerned about me because of the tortured look of pain on my face). I would Lithe Stall constantly (still do)!  Yet, I would glance over my shoulder and Rosemary would be in Plyo number 29 with a look of serenity on her face that I was so envious of! Today, she continues to out perform me, even after 4 years of practice! She’s an inspiration, and here is 25 things you may not have know about her.

1. I was born and grew up in South Florida, but  was quick to leave for northern climes and headed to university in upstate New York. I was so excited to see snow for the first time, but the novelty has worn off even though I still love new snow.
2. I eschewed the fancy wedding scene and had a hippyish wedding with new found friends in the outdoors near Seattle with my attire being jeans.  This came after a summer of backpacking all over the west living out of a VW van with my soon to be husband.  Needless to say our families were scandalized.
3. I have 2 wonderful, talented children.  I introduced my daughter Leah to Lithe, and my son is getting married this June in Brooklyn.
4. My life has stretched from coast to coast. Growing up in the east, then deciding the west beckoned, and now again in the east.  Will Philly be my last stop?  Very unlikely.
5. I got to live on a houseboat on the ship canal in Seattle.  My husband named it Thyme for Rosemary. The sign is on our wall.
6. I never owned an umbrella while I was living there.
7. My daughter is a dancer and lives part of her time in India leaving her long hair chihuahua named Princess with us.
8. My first lithe class was when Northern Liberties was the only studio.  
9. Much earlier than Lithe, I was a follower of the Jane Fonda videos (but without thong leotards!!!).
10. I am a huge NPR fan and found touring the studio in DC as exciting as some people find Disneyland (a place I never intend to go).
11. I read the New Yorker every week.  
12. I am a follower of fashion and try to know what the new trends are even if I don’t follow them.  My style is still evolving.
13. My coffee is dark, strong and black.  
14. I love warm sands and blue oceans.  
15. I bake bread occasionally but did it weekly when I lived in Missoula, MT.
16. A trip to MOMA makes me happy.
17. My favorite décor is clean lines and modern.  My house however is very eclectic.
18. I like to get my own way, and can come up with many arguments about why I should.  
19. I hate snakes.  I am not too fond of palmetto bugs either.  I think dead ones smell like Jergens Lotion.  A remnant of my childhood in Florida.  
20. I love avocados but never touched them growing up with 2 avocado trees in my back yard. There also were unappreciated (by me) grapefruit and orange trees.  
21. My grandmother taught me to knit when I was a little girl.   I seem to always have a knitting project going, but not any rush to complete it.
22. My daughter wears my clothes and looks so much better in them than I do.
23. I am a total news and political junkie.  
24. One of my favorite movies of all time is Francois Truffaut’s Small Change.  I bet none of you have even heard of it.
25. I always want to know to know what is around the next corner.  

From the interactions I’ve had with Rosemary over the years, I can’t say that I’m surprised that she had the gumption to get married in jeans outside with some new friends. Go ‘head Rosemary! I know many of us could really benefit from a little of that spontaneity and guts in our lives! You’re an amazing, cool lady that truly exemplifies what it means to fit, hip and healthy!

See you in class!

Image via Samantha Stephens at Lithe Rittenhouse. 

25 THINGS {BY SAYEH}! 2 May 2012

The new Main Line studio is finally opening tomorrow to the joy of our fellow Lithers who have made the commute to one of the 3 city studios for months now. Learn a little about Chrissy Lauletta, who will be helping Mainliners with all of their Lithe needs and questions as she wo-mans the front desk as Studio Manager at the new suburban Lithe outpost.

1. Very few people call me Chrissy. I usually go by either Parker or Izzy. Izzy is courtesy of my 11 year old nephew, Alex, who couldn't pronounce Chrissy when he was a baby.
2. I am the 2nd oldest of 7 and, as cheesy as it sounds, the oldest 3 are my best friends.
3. I have a South African Mastiff that weighs 10lbs less than me, and is the biggest baby in the world. I always cave and let him sleep with me.
4. My favorite food is ice cream, but i try to be good and stick with 'fro-yo'.
5. I'm somewhat of a foodie (hence the majority of my 25 things being about food), but a simple grilled cheese with tomato will always be one of my top choices.
6. I don't cook but I'll challenge anyone on the art of hard boiling the perfect egg. I eat them for breakfast with hot sauce several times a week.
7.  I have a 'no man left behind' rule when I go out for sushi.
8. I love to travel, and spent a month in Costa Rica touring several different parts of the country.  My favorite was Tamarindo Beach on the northeast coast.
9. My dream for my next trip is to travel through Italy.
10. I hate flying. Be careful if you ever sit next to me on a plane because I will squeeze your hand so tight it will be several pretty shades of purple.
11. I wore pink on my wedding day.
12. I drink my weight in ounces of water every single day, but I have to have coffee at least twice a day.
13. When I ask you how your day is I really, truly want to know the answer. I'd rather listen, but if you ask me anything, I'm an open book.
14. I'm afraid of heights...and spiders. In fact, I just had to relocate seats bc there is one staring at me and no one is around to capture it.
15. I passed up an art scholarship to study art therapy at a small college in the mountains in Virginia.
16. I have a social work degree, but have been in sales since my first job out of college.
17. My “backyard" in the city was horse stables up until construction took over a few weeks ago.
18. I HAVE to watch something happy before I go to sleep at night and boycott scary movies at all costs.
19. Apparently, I find myself funnier than most people find me to be. For example, I'm reading this out loud and I'm the only one cracking up.
20. Outside of Lithe studios, you'll rarely see me wearing anything other than heels.
21. A career dream I've had for as long as I can remember is to be a personal stylist.22. I recently started a list of '100 things I want to do before I die'. I've come up with #59 so far.
23. One of the things I'm most excited to check off is designing my own house to be built one day.
24. I've checked off 11 so far.
25. If I ever have to leave the city (which I hope is never), and move to the burbs, I want a house with a wrap around front porch and horses in my backyard again.

I’m with you on the flying thing Chrissy. I watched La Bamba when I was little, and that did it for me. Been petrified of flying ever since, but I do it. Thank goodness getting to your Mainline desk requires little aviation. It’s good to know there’s a place to Lithe and a friendly face if us city Lithers every find ourselves out on the Mainline.

See you in class!

Image of Chrissy Lauletta at Lithe Old City via Lauren