• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Amy West Travel

Amy West's Luxury Lifestyle Publication Featuring Travel Reviews, Giveaways, Tips, Member Perks and More.

Link to my Instagram Page
Link to my Facebook Page
Link to my Twitter Page
Link to my Pinterest Page

fitness

The Best Salads in Jacksonville

April 7, 2017 By Amy West

Best Salads in Jax
The humble Salad. Perhaps one of the most underestimated menu items. So often considered an afterthought, an appetizer, or at best an add on. For me and many others though, salads are so much more. Whether you are a craving your veggies, hitting the gym a little harder, or just interested in testing out the creativity of your favorite dining destination, a salad can represent way more than a bed of greens. For the last few years I’ve been compiling some of my favorite “Destination Salads” on the First Coast. These salads so inspiring, they are worth going out of your way for over and over again. Let’s just say, they are making salads sexy again.

Spinach and Quinoa Salad from Eleven South Bistro and Bar
Spinach and Quinoa Salad from Eleven South Bistro and Bar
Eleven South Bistro and Bar
Spinach and Quinoa Salad
Jacksonville Beach – my full review here
Eleven South Bistro and Bar is no stranger to awards. For over a decade it has received countless accolades for it’s upscale menu, intimate setting, and impressive wine list. Not to be upstaged by the rest of the menu, salads take a much appreciated featured role in this highly lauded foodie destination. This new Spinach and Quinoa Salad certainly has star power and bursts with well balanced flavor. Pay close attention to the Banyuls Vinaigrette, this one can’t be missed. Quinoa has been a bit of a buzz word for the last few years, but it truly is a great source of protein. I love this tasty combo pulling together layers of flavor. Eleven South’s menu does change seasonally, so if this salad goes missing, you can look for other great seasonal items. The lunch menu boasts a Salad du Jour and you really can’t go wrong with any of their selections. 

The Super Food Salad from American Gator Club
Superfood Salad from American Gator Club

American Gator Club
Superfood Salad
Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa , Ponte Vedra Beach – my full review here 

The American Gator Club is one of my favorite “Best Kept Secrets” in the region due to it’s somewhat humble location tucked inside the Sawgrass Marriott Resort. Head out to the pool deck and find yourself inhaling the delicious aromas of tasty handhelds, and Southern inspired tapas. You’ll also find this colorful Superfood Salad brimming with all the good stuff. Almonds, blueberries, local cauliflower and more antioxidant and protein rich ingredients put this salad at the top of my crave worthy list. 

The 3 Palms Grille Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad 3 Palms Grille

3 Palms Grille 
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Ponte Vedra Beach – my full review here

I have to confess. As sophisticated as my palate has become, I still don’t love beets. That is to say, I still don’t love beets when they aren’t done well. If those little jewels are straight off the farm and prepared with simplicity and finesse, then I’m all for them. This Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese salad is a beautiful example of how fresh and robust “beets done right” can be. The candied pistachios bring balance the denseness of the beets with a sweet crunch. The Bibb lettuce is a refreshingly light choice against heavier greens like Kale. Top it off with creamy goat cheese, orange supremes, and a citrus poppy vinaigrette and you have one satisfying dish. 

The Burrata Caprese from Coast
Burrata Caprese from Coast 

Coast 
Burrata Caprese with Shrimp
Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island – my full review here

Oh Burrata, that creamy, elegant delight brought to you by mozzarella. Since my first experience with Burrata, I’ve been utterly smitten. Coast, one of the new destinations created by the brilliant culinary minds at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, brings a classic combination to life with it’s Burrata Caprese. A mediterranean staple including garden fresh tomatoes, crispy prosciutto, and shallots. For a little more protein top it off with wild caught shrimp, fresh from the Atlantic Coast. It doesn’t get much better than that folks. 

The Super Kale Salad from M Shack
Super Kale Salad from M Shack

M Shack
Super Kale Salad 
Multiple Locations – Also included in my “Best Family Friendly Restaurants” blog

M Shack burgers have developed their own cult following around these parts. Freshly ground hormone free black angus beef prepared from scratch in house keep fans coming back again and again, but did you know the Super Kale Salad has just as popular a following as it’s more meaty menu companions? That’s right, this family friendly destination pleases all tastebuds with it’s versatile menu catering to meat eaters, vegetarians, vegans, and those requiring a gluten free diet as well. 

The Kale Salad from Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails
Kale Salad from Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails

Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails 
Kale Salad
The Markets of St Johns Town Center – Jacksonville – my full review here 

As striking on a plate as it is flavorful, Moxie’s Kale salad brings together beets (done right), and fresh massaged kale. Some varieties of Kale (in my opinion) can have a tendency to get a little stiff and crunchy. That’s why it’s important to give the leaves a little extra love. No doubt about it, this tender, melt in our mouth kale will leave an impression, and you’ll be back for more before you know it. 
The Grilled Romaine Ceasar from Ovinte
Grilled Romaine Ceasar from Ovinte

Ovinte 
Grilled Romaine Ceaser
St Johns Town Center- Jacksonville – my full review here 

Who says salads should always be served cold? I remember my first experience with grilled greens, and it was a game changer for sure! This Grilled Romaine Ceasar is incredible. Pair smokey grilled romaine, with freshly grated buttery parmesan, and the tart acidity from the tomatoes and your tastebuds are going to thank you. So much goodness happening on this plate. Served hot or cold, a grilled salad is a treat for the senses. 

The Market Greens Salad from 619 Ocean View is a show stopper
Market Greens Salad from 619 Ocean View

619 Ocean View
Market Greens Salad 
Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa – Ponte Vedra Beach

Anytime someone serves me an unseasoned salad, I cry a little inside. Prepared correctly, many salads don’t even need a dressing. This Market Greens Salad from 619 Ocean View is a fine example of such a dish. The freshest greens, made from scratch croutons, light seasoning, and a soft boiled egg come together in an unexpected show stopper. Our recent visit definitely left us wanting more of this destination salad. 

The Roasted Beet Salad at Flying Iguana
Roasted Beet Salad from Flying Iguana

Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar  
Roasted Beet Salad
Neptune Beach – my full review here 

Earthy beets, fresh mint, bitter arugul, and tart pickled mango combine in this fresh remix of the colorful beet salad at Flying Iguana in Neptune Beach. Of course there are plenty of reasons to find yourself dining at the Flying Iguana. Perhaps more well known for their large Tequila selection, or their flavorful handhelds. You can be sure the culinary staff doesn’t hold back when it comes to your greens. If you dig a little deeper you’ll discover that Flying Iguana has cultivated it’s own rooftop garden brimming with fresh ingredients that make their appearance in seasonal specials, veggie staples, and hand crafted cocktails. Explore for yourself. I promise you wont be disappointed. 
BG Shrimp Chopped Salad from Burrito Gallery
Image Provided by Burrito Gallery – BG Shrimp Chopped Salad from Burrito Gallery

Burrito Gallery 
BG Shrimp Chopped Salad
multiple locations – Also included in my “Best Family Friendly Restaurants” blog

Not only for Burrito lovers, this Jacksonville favorite has recently expanded to include multiple locations. I had yet to venture to this popular dining spot until it was mentioned to me that they have some killer salads. Boy was I excited when those promises proved true. To be honest I have yet to try a Burrito at the Burrito Gallery. Everything is just so darn good. Order any salad and you’ll be pleased but if you have a hankering for shrimp, you certainly can’t go wrong with this BG Shrimp Chopped Salad. Our family go-to? A steak and chicken quesadilla, and a Cobb salad split. With generous portions and a can’t-miss trio of guac, queso, and salsa you will definitely be full. Did I mention the generous house margaritas? Done and done! 
Where are your favorite foodie destinations? Know a place with stand out salads, desserts, tapas and more? I want to hear about them in the comments below. You never know who will make my next round up!

Until then…

Enjoy the Journey!

xo – Amy West

www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old 

Mixed greens with Atlantic Salmon
Another Salad du Jour from Eleven South topped in Atlantic Salmon

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old .

Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

2016 in Review | Your Favorite Posts and More

December 28, 2016 By Amy West

It’s that time of year again. The time we take a look back at the last 365 days and contemplate the accomplishments we made, the failures we’d rather forget, and the goals that lay ahead. I have to say that transitioning into a mother of two has been quite the adjustment. London turned one this year and with that celebration I took a few steps closer to freedom. We still have milestones yet to come, but I’ve gradually been able to grant Amy West Travel more and more of my time again this year. I love having the privilege of being both mom and business owner, and through it all, I appreciate you my amazing readers sticking with me through thick and thin. Here’s a look back at the best of 2016, and a glimpse into what 2017 promises thus far. 

Top 5 Blogs of 2016

Amy west and daughters in Houston

1. Houston Top 10 Family Travel
This spring we had the pleasure of partnering with Visit Houston and experiencing one of Texas’ finest cities. Our kids got to taste Tex Mex, watch a Rodeo, blast off at the Johnson Space Center and get hands on at a Children’s museum. We discovered how kid friendly this growing city truly is and really had a fantastic time. Catch the full story for the complete list of “must see” destinations. I learned from this post how much you, my readers, want to read about family travel. Because of the success of this post I have begun to adjust my travel planning to include more kid friendly destinations.

Amy West and family in Tampa

2. Tampa Top 10 Family Travel

With the success of Houston on my heels I was eager to accept Visit Tampa’s invitation to visit. I specifically requested a kid friendly itenerary so we could bring you the best in family travel Tampa had to offer. We were not disappointed. So many great restaurants and attractions await. Get caught up on the entire post and find out what you have been missing from this bayside city. 
decadent prawns from Salt at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
Photo by Agnes Lopez
3. 9 Must Taste Southern Dishes in Jax

In addition to family travel you guys, like me, love to eat. I was pleased to see how popular this post on Southern Dishes in Jax was. How many have you tasted? 
Pork Sliders from Seachasers
4. 5 Brand New Restaurants in Jax
Following suit with the Southern dishes post was this article and TV segment I posted on brand new restaurants in Jax. I also did a popular follow up of this post with 6 more restaurants. This will become a regular spot thanks to it’s popularity. Thanks for choosing Amy West Travel as a trusted resource on where to eat. I’ll keep doing that hard work of researching all these great new restaurants. 

Amy West and daughters

5. How I lost the Baby Weight

Ironically, after eating all that tasty food, you all wanted to know how I lost the baby weight. Falling into the fifth most popular spot is this post on how I lost my baby weight, which really is just a big encouragement to moms to relax, and take as much time as you want to be you and enjoy your kid. There is enough pressure on us to be perfect these days. Love the skin you are in and be proud of your body, which gave you the ability to produce a child. That is my message to you all when it comes to baby weight. 

Amy West with the ladies of The Chat

In other News…..

Here’s what 2016 looked like for Amy West Travel by the numbers:

  • Blog Posts = 62 Blog Posts Including This One
  • TV Appearances = 22 Live TV Appearances including The Chat and River City Live (See all my on air segments on my Media page here.)

Freelance Contributions and Other advances: 

  • Contributed to a group article for  Huffington Post
  • Became an official on-air contributor for Wander Jacksonville, Jacksonville’s official visitor information Network, launching in January 2017.
  • Came on board as a contributor for Where Guidebook  
  • Named a top 10 Travel Trolley Best Luxury Blogger
  • 2nd Year Contributing to 10Best.com 
  • Began partnering with World Market as an on air lifestyle contributor in North East Florida
  • I’m pleased to report I’m now working with RewardStyle and LiketoKnow.It since July (if you notice my shopping widgets you can thank RewardStyle. More info to come soon on how to shop on my site.)
Looking Forward…
I don’t want to give it all away but I will leak that we will be traveling to California in April of 2017 with our girls. This will be my first time to the West coast in two years, and we are super excited for our girls to experience this stunning part of the country.  Aside from that, look for more trips to Tennessee, Ohio, Kentucky, and Georgia. We are looking at Chicago, New Orleans, New York, and a few destinations across the Atlantic as possible travel destinations. In the meantime I’ll be bringing you more great insight on how to travel stress free with the family, where to find the best eats, and how to live life with style. 
Thank you for your faithful reading and support of my site. Without you, all this would be for naught. Here’s to another great year, and more adventures than we can all imagine. 
Until then…
Enjoy the Journey!
xo- Amy West
www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old 
Amy West behind the scenes at Orsay with Wander Jacksonville

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old .
Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

The Best Digital Work Outs | At Home and Beyond

October 19, 2016 By Amy West

My favorite work outs at home and beyond

I haven’t written a good work out post since my 30 Day Challenge, Juice Cleanse, and Fitness Trends series. After covering “How I lost the Baby Weight“, I thought it was time to share again what I’m working out to lately. For me, being active has to be fun. I know what my body likes, and I know that I mentally need to work out as an outlet for stress. Over the last year I’ve had to get creative with my fitness since my little wasn’t old enough to go into child care at the gym. Here is the result of my search for best online work outs, and what I’m doing lately.

Amy West in athleta gear

1. Beach Body on Demand

First of all I just want to point out that I am not a beach body coach and am in no way affiliated with them or compensated for recommending them. After having London I was looking for good at home work outs to do especially when it came to using free weights. I had heard that the 21 Day Fix was awesome and I figured 21 days sounded pretty reasonable. I also liked that I could stream the work outs. This was important because we don’t even have a DVD player anymore (Yes we are that Millennial). The package I signed up for came with a coach who involved me in a facebook group challenge which lasted about a month. I liked that there was community and I wasn’t just doing home work outs on my own. This especially came in handy with eating clean and making sure I was fueling my body enough (sometimes momma is the last to eat). During my challenge I got to know Beach Body’s new On Demand website more and really enjoyed the Challenge Du Jour which is a curated weekly mix of different work outs from Beach Body’s long list of work out programs (you know, the ones you see on all the infomercials). I was surprised to discover that a lot of the instructors are really funny (see Tony Horton, and Shaun T), which helped me get through feeling kind of ridiculous at home. All in all this site is very motivating and helpful and you can get your first 30 days free as well as stream it on your phone through their app, which is perfect for travel! 




2. Yoga with Adriene 

I found Adriene when I was stuck at home for my work outs when London was too little for the child care at my local gym. I love her yoga videos because she is not only extremely friendly and relatable, she is also very knowledgable. Adriene’s down to earth delivery, disarming charm, and “do what feels good” methods made yoga my favorite work out. As my body was recovering from a c-section and my core was in need of a lot of therapy, yoga was a gentle way for me to ease back into my fitness routine. I started with her 30 Day Yoga Challenge and loved that she began gently and added more challenges throughout the 30 days. Most of the videos were around 20 to 30 minutes but some were as brief as 12 minutes, yet you still felt like you did your body good that day. I highly recommend Yoga with Adriene for both beginning and advanced yoga practice, she has a great variety to choose from. Doing Yoga with Adriene is kind of like doing yoga with your best girlfriend. 

Ravenna 7 Tennis Shoes

3. Fitness Marshall

I discovered Caleb Marshall when this video of Meghan Trainor’s song “Me Too” went viral featuring Caleb and his crew dancing it out. He just seemed to be having so much fun and I was missing my fav zumba class at the gym, so I gave it a try. So so addictive. I had tried other zumba you tube channels but they just didn’t measure up. I love the trendy latest hits music he chooses, and his choreography is easy to follow but challenging enough to still be interesting. I like that he gives great guidance but doesn’t repeat the moves over and over in the slow learning process a lot of dance videos do. I just want to dig in and do the song, not practice the same eight steps over and over. Caleb does a great job rotating a diverse group of dancers including all ages, shapes, sizes and genders so literally anyone can relate and feel comfortable dancing it off at home. 
4. Keaira LaShae
I randomly happpened upon Keaira while scrolling through my other youtube favs. I was interested in her dance work outs and instantly fell in love with her passion and enthusiasm. She does a great job mixing up the type of music she uses and does a lot of isolating movements to work the abs and glutes. She’s also a mom so I could relate with what she had to say about getting back in shape and this really encouraged me. She has work outs for all levels so you don’t have to feel intimidated getting started, but know that as you learn you can also challenge yourself more. Last but not least, Keaira makes working out fun, and for me that is a priority. I want to be smiling when I’m working out, not miserable and grumpy.

Amy West in Athleta tank

5. BeFit
BeFit is another great free resource. Featuring a diverse range of work outs with celebrity trainers. You can do 10 minute abs, dance it off with the above mentioned Keaira LaShae, or experiment with partner yoga plus lots more. I found this channel to be similar to Beach Body with the bonus of being 100% free. 

Amy West in trendy work out gear


Shop the Link
Work Out Tank – Cropped Leggings – Tennis Shoes 

What work outs are you into lately? I’m always on the look out for something fun, and challenging. Fill me in below in the comments. 
Until then…
Enjoy the Journey!
xo- Amy West
www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old

Watch me discuss this topic on The Chat 

Amy West in Athleta Gear

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old .

Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

10 Easy Ways to Lose Weight on Vacation

May 25, 2016 By Amy West

How to Lose Weight when you travel

We’ve all been there. You save up, you take that trip you’ve been anticipating, and you eat your heart out. Sure the pleasure is undeniable, but so are those extra pounds you put on in the process. You can’t fit in those shorts or that cute bikini, and more than that… you just kinda feel crappy. It’s true that 80% of how we look and feel can be traced back to what we put in our mouth. I know I know, “How can this be Amy? Aren’t you always bragging about the amazing fattening food you eat?” Well yes, and no. I love great food. I’m a proud foodie. However, most people probably don’t realize that the majority of the time when we are at home, our meal time is very humble. I’ve been pretty honest about my childhood struggle with obesity. Over the years I’ve had to fight the urge to fall into the eating disorder trap. Instead of sinking into that pit of despair, I’ve found my own methods of living a life of balance, while also enjoying what I want. Here are some examples of how I lost weight going on great vacations to places like Jamaica, Rome, Colorado, and even a Cruise!

Let me begin by saying I’m not a nutritionist. Every body is different. Having said that, I hope you find these tips useful on your next trip. It starts by changing your perspective of food.
Bowl of fruit
1. Rule of Thirds

Limit your indulgences to one meal a day (or 1/3), the rest of the day keep it healthy focusing on good choices. Many times, starting your day with good choices will keep you on that path. Sometimes I’ll even replace one meal a day with a protein bar or smoothie which helps me know I’ve fueled my body with great nutrition for the day. 

Amy mountain biking in garden of the gods
2. Make it an Adventure

Choose an experience that will get you active and keep you more connected to your mind and body. In 2012 we journeyed to Colorado and climbed the 14,000 ft mountain Pikes Peak. To make it even more challenging (while saving money) we didn’t rent a car. Instead we rented mountain bikes to get around the little town of Colorado Springs. It was pretty freaking hard, but it was also incredibly fulfilling and to this day I think back on that experience with great pride. 

3. Split Meals

Not only does splitting meals save money, it also helps with portion control. I found it especially helpful in Italy when my friend and I split some of the richer dishes you don’t want to miss like pasta, gelato, and yummy street fare. 

dad and kid on vacation

4.Take the Stairs

When most folks think of cruise ships, they think of all you can eat buffets, and ordering every dish on the menu at dinner service. However, if you change your perspective a little, you can actually lose weight on a cruise. When we cruise we avoid the elevators at all costs (which are usually pretty crowded anyways) and instead take the long way up and down the stairs. We enjoy long walks on deck at sunset, and keep our food orders realistic. Because of this we were able to shed a few pounds on our cruise back in 2007. 

man doing yoga
5. Don’t Worship at the Alter of Food 

I’m first to admit that I love great food. The culinary experience is one full of enjoyment for the senses. However, you can embrace great food without it consuming your life. When you travel you should enjoy the food experience, but if you are aiming to lose weight don’t make it the reason for the trip. Make taste the accessory of the trip, not the reason to travel. Find your great travel moments while experiencing new things, go bungee jumping, discover new art, but don’t put food first place on your priority list. 

woman working out on stability ball

6. Earn It

I find when I purpose in my heart to “earn” that indulgence, it makes it that much more worthwhile. I savor each flavor more, and enjoy the effort I put into making room for it in my day. I know I made good choices for my body that day, and I’m more likely to keep my indulgence in line with my health goals. Having the “earn it” mindset might just give you extra motivation to hit the fitness center. Either way, getting active, even if it’s just walking helps you make better decisions when it comes to what you put in your body.



7. Walk it Off
I’ve found that when I have traveled to destinations that require a lot of walking (and in which I choose to do the walking instead of opting for public transport) I shed a few pounds in the process. Places like Savannah, NYC, Rome, and other big cities with activities spread around in walking distance are great choices, even Disney can be a great choice if you can avoid too much junk food. 

gym selfie

8. Get Sporty Chic
When you are purchasing your vacay wardrobe, include some cute active wear you want to take advantage of. I find that starting my day out in fitness wear makes me more inclined to get active. 

couple cycling

9. Accountability 

On your next trip grab a workout buddy to get active with or an accountability partner who will help you stay motivated. Need a friend? There are tons of apps online with great ways of getting you connected with people who have the same goals as you. Even posting your goals on instagram, facebook, or twitter can be helpful with keeping your goals a priority.

delicious salad
10. Options are Everything 

Compare options when ordering off the menu. Make good choices i.e. glass of white wine vs pina colada or grilled fish vs the foie gras. You can still dine very well and enjoy your food while avoiding over indulgent meals that will likely just make you feel miserable after you dine. Choose food that will energize you and help you feel your best during your travels.

These are just a few of the little tricks I use to keep my goals in line.

What are your favorite tips for staying fit on the go? I’d love to hear your travel tips and hacks. Drop me a line in the comments below!

Until then…
Enjoy the Journey!
xo- Amy West
www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old 

Watch me discuss these tips with the ladies of The Chat

How I Lost the Baby Weight | Featuring OOTD from Anthropologie

February 3, 2016 By Amy West

Amy West and daughters in Anthropologie

I’m five months into the new adventure of being a mommy to baby London. Words can barely convey what a true joy the last few months have been. My first experience was (like many parents) a trial by fire. This time, there is a sense of confidence having tread similar ground before, and over all I’ve been much more relaxed for the whole process. This goes for bouncing back as well. I’d love to give you a five point formula for how I lost the baby weight but the truth is that it has been a lot less straight forward than all that. Instead of striving, this time it’s all kind of taken care of itself. Here’s my take on losing the baby weight the second time around….

Amy West and her daughters featuring Anthropologie clothes

1. Start With a Good Foundation
I can’t deny that starting with the right foundation was paramount to a healthy pregnancy and recovery. Before I was even pregnant with baby London, I was in close to the best shape of my life. This came from working out with a trainer at least twice a week and staying active with zumba classes, juicing, and chasing around my little busy bee Sienna. As a result, by eating in moderation (this included my fair share of cupcakes) while pregnant, I was able to stay within healthy limits of weight gain. Compared to my first pregnancy where I gained 47 lbs, I only gained 30 lbs this time. That was certainly a better place to start.

little girl holding juice from Watts Juicery
My favorite juices from Watts Juicery in Jacksonville, FL 

2. Eat All the Things
I’d like to return to the concept of eating in moderation at this point. I believe in it. However, when you first begin breastfeeding, you never expect to get the appetite of a trucker. So in the first few months after having London, I pretty much did “eat all the things”. But this was completely normal because my body was healing itself and having to get use to supplying enough milk for my new rapidly growing baby. I guess what I’m saying here is that what’s most important is for baby to be nourished, and mom not to stress, the natural order of things will come to pass if you listen to your body and make good choices. This is not a time to diet.

Amy West and daughters

3. Mindfulness
Mindfulness is such a buzzword right now but honestly, this has been a valuable lesson for me in this season. I’m a planner, a dreamer, and I’m usually setting goals and ambitiously pursuing them. It’s easy to feel a little lost when you go from sixty to zero in a day. I chose to make this season about bonding with my baby, not conquering the world. I will cherish these intimate moments forever. Soon, my baby will be a toddler and she’ll be running around getting into everything. This time around, I’ve chosen to discard guilt and focus on the ones that that really matter, my family. My #goals will have their moment in the sun again. For now, I’ll be staring at my angel while she sleeps in my arms because that’s where she belongs. An amazing thing happens when you slow down for a minute and embrace the moment, you start listening to your heart and your body, and you make choices based on what you know is right, not based on the fear of missing out. 

Amy West and daughters doing yoga
4. Do It Together
Usually working out is “my time” , but this first year of my daughters life leaves “me time” in short supply. I still need to work out for my mental health, but also because I do want to get back into the shape I was in before. In order to do that, I’ve made it a group effort. I weight train in my home during baby’s naps, or when I walk the big kid to the park. I do zumba like before, and now I also do yoga with the help of my favorite new youtube instructor. The point is, sometimes we have to embrace the “new normal”, apply a little bit of creativity, and have fun!

Amy West and daughters working out
Amy West and daughters stay fit and healthy together

baby tennis shoes

Because of these simple steps, I am pleased to say I was able to return back to pre baby weight by the time London was five months old, that’s half the time that it took before. The point here though, is that the amount of time doesn’t really matter. What matters is that baby and mom are happy and healthy. I would encourage every new mom out there to relax, stop being so hard on yourself, and know that in time things will get back to the “new normal”. A good friend of mine put it pretty perfect. “Saying you want to go back to your pre baby body is like saying you want to go back to your pre pubescent body. It is ludicrous.” It’s true, as women our bodies will change with age, and with children. The best we can do is make healthy choices, and stop trying to live up to some engineered ideal of what we are supposed to look like. Be healthy, and be happy. Let the social expectations fall away and listen to your heart. You’ll find your way.

Until then…
Enjoy the Journey!
xo- Amy West
www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old
Photography by Aimee Dodds

little girl in head band and scarf by Anthropologie

Pure + Good Cowled Jersey Tunic • $68
Pure + Good Jacquard-Trimmed Leggings • $68
Anthropologie Flora Fawn Scarf • Anthropologie • Sold Out
Anthropologie Aviaire Silk Scarf • Anthropologie • $128
Anthropologie Fox Face Infinity Scarf • Anthropologie • $58
Anthropologie Zing Hair Ties • Anthropologie • $15
Anthropologie Restinga Pony Holders • Anthropologie • $15
AQUA Girls’ Faux Leather Bow Ponte Leggings – Sizes 4-6X • Aqua • Sold Out
Pinc Premium Girls’ Abstract Printed Leggings – Sizes S-XL • Pinc Premium • $36
AQUA Girls’ Geo Print Leggings – Sizes S-XL • Aqua • Sold Out
First Impressions Baby Girls’ Long-Sleeve Kitty Doodle T-Shirt, Only at Macy’s • First Impressions • $7.99
PUMA GV Special Jr Sneaker (Little Kid/Big Kid) • Puma • $31.05–50
Nike Air Max Dynasty Womens Running Shoes • Nike • $85
RHYLA – Baby Girls Moonstone Grey Sailor Knot Turban • $18
Bonnie Jean Little Girls’ Embellished Cardigan • Bonnie Jean • $30
Popover And Play Top In Chambray • $32
Bloomie’s Girls’ Bow Print Leggings – Sizes 2T-4T • Sold Out
New Balance KG574 (Inf/Tod) – Arctic Blue & Grey-5.5 Toddler • New Balance • $34.96
Eugenia Kim Knotted Leather Turban Headband • Eugenia Kim • Sold Out

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old .

Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. 

Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

Obsessions of the Day

    Powered by Juicer