va va Verve!

While I enjoy all the amazing food within blocks of the loft, my waistline is ultimately paying the price. I used to avidly work out, but with some postpartum back issues I scaled back to practically nothing. With the weather breaking, I plan on getting out and walking more with the kiddo. I also decided to join Verve Wellness - A W E S O M E! I've been taking yoga and pilates for a few weeks now. Not as often as I'd like, but getting back into it nonetheless. Lynsey and Joanna know their stuff! Just figured I'd share. I'm confident pilates is going to whip me back into shape... if I lay off the pierogies and french fry laden salads. Mmm...

St. Patricks Day - Pittsburgh Style!

The concept of being able to walk out your door, walk two blocks, and be part of a major event never gets old. There were droves of people decked out in green St. Paddy's Day garb, lining Grant and Boulevard of the Allies just waiting to catch a glimpse of the action. I managed to stand on a traffic light base with the kiddo strapped to my back and got an adequate view. In my opinion (although, isn't' this ALL my opinion?) it was a little chilly for stationary standing. We made it about 45 minutes before we decided to head home. No worries though, a stop at Crazy Mocha completed our quick trip. I had to run some errands anyway, and briefly met a friend and her kiddo on the tail end of the parade. By then the crowd was a little more diffuse and the stationary chill in the air was gone. Note to self - next year, go later and stand at Boulevard of the Allies! Either way, the freedom of being able to experience this event around where you live is so incredibly convenient... as always!

Spring is in the air... hopefully!

The anticipation of Spring is almost electrifying! I feel I'm pretty tolerant to the cold and gray, but the amazingly beautiful weather this past weekend just made me crave more! For the first time in MONTHS I was truly able to experience a typical day of my former spring life as a Pittsburgher. The simple pleasure of sending husband and kiddo off to the park while I indulged in a much needed pilates class was enough to make my day. Meeting them at the park afterwards, heading over to MixStirs in Market Square for a late breakfast and then to Crazy Mocha for coffee and biscotti was sheer bliss! Our experience at MixStirs on this morning was phenomenal - peaceful atmosphere, yummy food, and family friendly! As always, Crazy Mocha was upbeat and fun. It always puts me in a great mood.

It's days like these that I cannot imagine living anywhere else in the city. It's comfortable, it's walkable, it's friendly, and it's a true community. There's so many fabulous things on the horizon here, and I cannot wait to be a part of it all!

If you want a good time...

go to Seviche and Tonic!!! Seviche has to be one of the most fun, hip, unique places downtown right now. Great service, delicious drinks and food... an all around fabulous time. Josh and Jess couldn't be any nicer! If you're going out and can only pick one place, pick here - SO fun!

Of course, the beauty of living downtown is you don't have to stick with one place, you can walk to so many amazing places. Tonic Bar and Grill is also one of my 'faves. They have such a diverse menu - From hummus, to pad thai, to burgers. Everything I've ever tried there has been scrumptious!

Most important, the customer service at these establishments is phenomenal. I like going places that value their repeat customers. Both Seviche and Tonic fit the bill!

This neighborhood needs a playground

Point State Park is one of Downtown's greatest assets! A big green open space to run around, read a good book, play sports, have a picnic - the possibilities are endless. It's also a great draw for visiting families. My friends often ask me "Where do you take your kid to play?" When I mention PSP, they ask if there's a playground. Most major city parks have some sort of play structure for kids, and even most minor ones. Where is ours? There's certainly enough space for one. A playground with a fence around it would be a HUGE draw for families! A safe, enclosed place for kids to play would be a big boost for families thinking of Downtown as a viable living option. If you build it, they will come! My kid is a little small to really care about this sort of thing yet, but in a year this could become problematic.

Nice In-Town "Getwaway"

If you've never had the opportunity to vacation in your own backyard I highly recommend it. It really is a different experience - especially if you have a kid! There are often 4 star hotels listed through Hotwire.com for less than $100 per night - an excellent deal. We have, or have had family stay at many hotels downtown - The Courtyard Marriott, the Hilton, the Westin, the Omni William Penn, and the Hampton Inn (technically the Strip, but REALLY close) and all have been pretty darn nice. We have family staying at the Renaissance in a few weeks so I'm sure that will live up to the reputation.

The only downside to the backyard vacation? I really wish more places were open on the weekends. With many new condo and apartment complexes expected to open this year, hopefully more downtown businesses will open their doors outside of bankers hours.

Ahhhhh-mazing!

If you EVER need a chiropractor in downtown Pittsburgh, I cannot recommend HealthQuest Chiropractic and Dr. Greg Simunick enough - FABULOUS! While I love my kiddo, he has ruined my back. Between chasing him throughout Point State Park, in and out of car seats, picking him up off busy sidewalks and more, I had constant lower back pain. I have been twice and already feel so much better! Just as important - I can take my son with me! Dr. Simunick has been super accommodating and tolerant of the kiddo. Just another great business making downtown a super family friendly neighborhood.