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IN: Lifestyle

We bought a house! Your home buying questions answered

March 9, 2022 By Melanie No Comments

Well fam, if you missed the announcement on my Instagram, Bay and I bought a house here in Denver! You can see a sneak peek of the interior HERE. After six years of renting in NYC and another year of renting here in Colorado, it feels absolutely amazing to own our own home! We have a little time before we actually move in, so before I start inundating you with way too much home content, I thought I’d get the ball rolling by answering some of the questions you all submitted in my IG story poll last week!

I’ve been having so many great conversations after the announcement with other people who are about to make a big move to Denver and it makes me so happy to know that this city is continuing to grow in popularity. I have a big Denver Guide that I’ll be releasing within the next week, so keep an eye out for that!

If you’re considering buying a home here in Denver or are just curious about the home buying process in general, I hope you find the following answers insightful! I did my best to consolidate the questions that were the most similar but I do tend to be long-winded so feel free to skip ahead if this is all just way too much info. haha

Without further adieu, here are your home buying questions, answered:

What are the best Denver neighborhoods for young couples?

Thankfully the city of Denver and the metro area have lots of great neighborhoods for young couples and families to choose from! If you want a true city vibe with walkability and lots of fun places to eat, drink, etc then LoDo (lower downtown) is awesome. Since it is the most “city” part of Denver, there are probably more condos than single family homes available but it’s a great option for renting!

If you want a neighborhood that’s super close to downtown, then Highlands is probably your best bet. LoHi is a little too young in my opinion (college feel) but West Highlands, Sloans Lake, and even Berkeley have some nice houses in walking distance of lots of cafes, bars and restaurants. Arvada is just north of Berkeley and is considered a suburb of Denver, but from what I hear it’s a great option for young couples who want accessibility to the mountains while also being within a 10 min drive to downtown Denver.

RiNo is fun and more of an up and coming neighborhood in Denver. We personally didn’t consider it because there are areas of RiNo that aren’t as safe as some other areas of the city. However, it’s definitely a place we like to visit often just for the amount of breweries and restaurants that are there.

I’m a HUGE fan of Wash Park and wish we could have found a home here. But unfortunately inventory is low and the homes that did pop up were out of our price range. This was also the case with Cherry Creek and Congress Park, but I definitely think if you can find something that fits your budget within those areas they are beautiful, safe neighborhoods.

South Denver and Centennial have a lot of great options and even though the latter is technically a suburb, it still has a lot of walkable areas with coffee shops, fitness studios and restaurants. The appealing thing about Centennial is that the houses are newer and the neighborhood borders two highways, making the drive to the highlands and to the mountains about equidistance to living in Wash Park.

How far over asking did you have to go? Does it need to be all cash?

Unfortunately with the way this market is, we knew we were going to have to go over asking price in order to have an enticing enough offer to even be considered. This played a huge role in the base price of houses we were even including in our search and it was super helpful that the one we found was listed at about 25% less than the max cost we were willing to pay.

Right as we were thinking of putting in an offer, someone came in with a very aggressive bid and day of deadline. We worked with our realtor to turn around a counteroffer within a matter of hours and ended up going about 20% over the original asking (which essentially put us super close to our max budget).

As part two of this question, there’s no way we would have put everything down in cash and thankfully that’s not expected in this market. The amount of cash you need to save for earnest money and your downpayment will all depend on the type of mortgage you choose and the price of the house you buy.

Did you find any banks or mortgage companies helpful?

Yes, we worked with Dan from Strive Mortgage Team and they were super helpful through the entire process! Getting the correct paperwork together can be a hassle but once it was in their hands we were pleased with how quickly things came together. We made sure to get pre-approved prior to beginning our search and from there it was a lot of discussions around conventional vs. jumbo loans, interest rates, and what mortgage option would be the best for us given both of our credit scores and income level. They were kind enough to send us some Crumbl cookies after we closed on the house as a congratulatory gift, so that was a nice added touch.

How did you pick the area/neighborhood while navigating crazy prices?

As I mentioned earlier, we would have loved to stay in Wash Park but the inventory and pricing just didn’t work out for us. Our realtor warned us ahead of time that sacrifices would have to be made either based on the type of house we buy or the neighborhood we chose. After viewing many open houses all in different neighborhoods within Denver, we ultimately decided that the quality of the house mattered more to us than the neighborhood. This mindset allowed us to open up our search area to include more neighborhoods in the Denver Metro Area that we were originally closed off to and with it came a fresh crop of houses that were a much better fit for what we both wanted.

Thankfully, we didn’t end up having to sacrifice safety, park & highway access, and walkability so I’m VERY grateful. I know that if we had stayed in Wash Park we would have ended up with a house that’s over 100 years old and in need of major renovations. After weighing out the pros and cons of that, we couldn’t stomach paying as much as we would have to just to turn around and dump more money into modernizing the house.

The home we bought is move in ready and aside from some minor aesthetic changes to the bathrooms and painting walls, it’s exactly what we were looking for. At the end of the day, that was the right call for us and we’re okay with saying goodbye to Wash Park to opt for a neighborhood just a few min south. At the end of the day, in this kind of market some sacrifices will have to be made. It’s up to you to decide what is more of a priority for you. If neighborhood is number one, then you’ll just have to know that renovating will be something you will most likely need to budget for.

How long did it take you to find a house in Denver?

In the grand scheme of things, not too long at all! We started the official search in November and bought our house in February. So just 3 months? I know a lot of that was luck because in December the inventory was so bad and the houses we looked at in January were starting to make us feel pretty disappointed in general. It’s easy to get your hopes up and I’m a terribly emotional person, which made the process of looking mentally exhausting.

I know it sounds cliche but I do believe that you’ll know pretty immediately when you find the right one. There were a few that we were originally excited about and we even had put an offer on a different one and lost. But aside from the other one we put an offer on, none of the others felt like “the one” to both of us. After walking through this last one, we both had a moment of looking at each other during the walk through and there was almost an unspoken agreement. It felt like home and that’s why the next evening when we got the frantic call that someone had put an aggressive offer on it, we knew we were willing to try and outbid them immediately.

Houses pop up and literally close within 24-48 hours here, so my suggestion to anyone who is looking to buy is BE LOCAL and BE FLEXIBLE. Even if it means you have to rent or stay at an extended stay airbnb for a month or so. Being local means you can drop what you’re doing in the middle of the day to go see a house the minute it’s available for showing. We saw our house the first day it was available and our offer deadline ended up being the next evening, even though they had over 70 showings booked through the weekend! Buyers are not afraid to be aggressive, so timeliness is everything.

How much should you allot for closing costs? How long did closing take?

Thankfully, once the offer was accepted we were able to close in a matter of weeks with the help of our realtor, Kate Kazell and Strive Mortgage Team. From what we’ve learned, it’s best practice to save up at least 6% of the loan balance for closing costs but the more you can save the better. We ended up allotting about 20% to our downpayment to get our monthly mortgage to a place we felt would be more manageable. I know that’s not something everyone can or wants to do, which is why it’s also so important to make sure you’re working with a good mortgage company that can walk you through the best type of loan and downpayment plan that fits your budget.

I hope you all found this helpful as you begin your own house buying adventure! If you have any additional questions don’t be afraid to ask. Send me a DM or leave a question in the comments here. And stay tuned for lots of home content coming this summer once we move in!

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New Meet Melanie

New Meet Melanie

Hi and welcome to Headstands & Heels! I’m Melanie — a Digital Strategist turned Wellness Entrepreneur, certified yoga instructor (RYT 200), dog mama, and content creator based in Denver. I hope to encourage others to follow their dreams and cultivate a healthy, balanced lifestyle filled with mindfulness and positivity. 💕 Send me a note at: mel@headstandsandheels.com or Read More

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It is never too late to:
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
✨ change your career
✨ stop a bad habit
✨ make new friendships 
✨ create a routine you love
✨ try something new 
✨ take a different path
✨ make healthy choices 
✨ pursue your dreams
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Every stage of life is it’s own adventure and I think it’s pretty incredible that we can constantly reinvent ourselves, don’t you think? 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
{wellness, self care, healthy habits, positive mindset, healthy lifestyle, balanced living, mindfulness} 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
#itsnevertoolate #positivemindset #balancedliving #healthylifestyle #motivationalreel #discoverunder100k #dailywellness #healthymindset

A walk among the sunflowers 🌻 and 5 simple life
A walk among the sunflowers 🌻 and 5 simple life lessons inspired by them that we can reflect on:
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
✨ Follow the sunshine and do what makes you happy 
✨ Start each day with fresh energy and enthusiasm 
✨ Embrace your uniqueness and natural beauty 
✨ Don’t compare your timing to others, bloom when you’re ready 
✨ Welcome the rain, without it there’s no growth 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Are these cheesy? Yes. But can they be important reminders to help us shift our mindset and ground ourselves? Absolutely. 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
PS: For those asking, these sunflower fields are in Aurora right next to the Denver International Airport! They only bloom for a short time so I’m really thankful to have been able to witness them in all their glory. 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
🌻Colorado truly is beautiful🌻
(Photos by @hnguyenphotography) 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
#positivemindset #bloomwhereyouareplanted #sunflowerseason #romanticizeyourlife #mindfulness #mentalhealthmatters #selfgrowth #growthmindset

May this be the season you embrace the journey of
May this be the season you embrace the journey of becoming who you were meant to be 🌻 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
{positive mindset, follow your dreams, mindfulness, mindful moment, mindset, daily affirmation}
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
#healthylifestyle #positivemindset #followyourdreams #goalsetting #motivationalreels #selfcare #selflovetips #romanticizeyourlife #sunflowerfield #lifeisbeautiful #beautifuldestinations

Just me, myself and I wearing three cute, summery
Just me, myself and I wearing three cute, summery fits from @FPMovement available at @DicksSportingGoods! #ad
 
✨Which one is your favorite?✨
 
You all know my Summer Steps Walk Challenge is going strong and I’ve officially put all of these outfits to the test during my morning walks and loveee them. 👟💕They’re so cute and comfy but I also appreciate how versatile they are! I’m definitely wearing the onesie to all my yoga and pilates classes and the shorts + top combo is perfect for paddleboarding or even a hike! 
 
I’ve linked these in my stories so be sure to check them out. In the meantime, you’ll catch me in these during all my summer activities! ☀️ #FPMovement #DKSPartner

This color combo is giving 80’s aerobics vibes b
This color combo is giving 80’s aerobics vibes but I’m here for it 🦋🛼🤸🏼‍♂️. 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
We may not have a formal dining table yet but we are absolutely loving our new #homegym set up (priorities 🤷🏻‍♀️) so I thought I’d share a few things equipment essentials that we love: 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
SWIPE TO THE END FOR A BEFORE/AFTER 
I still can’t get over how real the brick wallpaper looks 😳
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
✨ sliders
✨ @bala ankle weights 
✨ @popflex_active resistance bands
✨ foam roller 
✨ bolster 
✨ yoga blocks 
✨ dumbbells (5-25lbs)
✨ bench
✨ yoga mats 
✨ @onepeloton bike 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Are you all mostly working out at home or in studio?


✨ GRWM ✨ morning skincare routine 
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I’m 33 years old, never had Botox or fillers, but def take my skincare regimen v seriously 💁🏻‍♀️. In my mid-twenties I started switching over to clean, cruelty-free beauty products and the difference I’ve seen in my skin has been wild. 
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I love seeing so many non-toxic & cruelty free options in places like Sephora and Ulta now 💕
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I do switch up products often as I’m always testing new things out but here are my current morning picks (all from tried and true brands that I’m obsessed with) 
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✨ @alpynbeauty plantgenius melt moisturizer 
✨ @byroe_official rose tea eye cream 
✨ @biossance Squalane & rose oil 
✨ @tataharperskincare hydrating floral essence 
✨ @tula glow & get it sunscreen
✨ @diviofficial scalp serum 
✨ @drunkelephant lippie balm 
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Do you spot any of your favorites in this lineup? 
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#morningroutine #healthylifestyle #cleanbeauty #morningskincare #healthyandhappy #grwm #dailywellness #crueltyfreebeauty #healthyhabits

An ode to summers in Colorado and all the vibrant,
An ode to summers in Colorado and all the vibrant, warm memories it brings. ☀️💖
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There’s really nothing more therapeutic than allowing yourself to slow down and notice all the beauty around you. If being surrounded by nature has taught me anything, it’s that there is much more peace in learning to embrace rest and playfulness, than striving for constant productivity. 
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We can work hard and also make time for chasing sunsets, spending time with the people we love and making new memories. 🌿✨ 
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Less than 50 days left of summer — let’s make the most of it 
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#hiking #summertime #outdoorsygals #healthylifestyle #denverblogger #healthyhabits #balancedliving #dailywellness #wellbeing #balancedlifestyle

Idk about you but going to the Farmer’s Market o
Idk about you but going to the Farmer’s Market on Sunday mornings has quickly become my favorite summer activity. 🌸☀️ it’s a great way to support local businesses while also stocking up on fresh produce and other favorite goodies for the week ahead! 
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I particularly love the one on South Pearl Street in Denver although I hear the one in Boulder is pretty amazing 
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Here’s what we typically stock up on:
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✨ Palisade peaches 
✨ Greens (this time it was rainbow chard) 
✨ Tomatoes, squash and peppers 
✨ Fresh bread 
✨ Sati Cold Brew (love their Samoa cookie one!)
✨ Jam and Almond butter 
✨ Artisanal pasta 
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Who else is obsessed with going to the farmers market?
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
{wellness, healthy lifestyle, self care, healthy habits} 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
#healthyliving #healthylifestyle #balancedlifestyle #farmersmarket #farmersmarkethaul #eattherainbow #eatyourgreens #wellnessblogger #healthyandhappy

Balanced girl summer is truly where it’s at and
Balanced girl summer is truly where it’s at and these are just a few of my fav recent eats & sips. 🌈 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
{wellness, self care, healthy lifestyle, healthy habits, balanced living, positive mindset, mindfulness}
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
#balancedliving #balancedlifestyle #healthymindset #healthylifestyle #discoverunder100k #wellnessblogger #intuitiveeating #healthyandhappy


𝘐 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨.
To find appreciation for all that my body can do and consistently does for me every day
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
𝘐 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺.
Not because I think it’s outwardly perfect, but because it is perfectly my own
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
𝘐 𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘦𝘹𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘥.
Because every time my body can do something new, it’s worthy of celebration
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
𝘐 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘨𝘢 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘺 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘥.
To remind myself through each flow and mindful breath just how beautiful this very moment is
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
#myyogalife #mindfulness #mindfulmovement #instayoga #yogapractice #healthylifestyle #wellness #yogapose #yogateacher #balancedliving

National Watermelon Day is right around the corner
National Watermelon Day is right around the corner (Aug 3rd) and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than with a fruity, refreshing Watermelon Breeze Smoothie from @jambajuice! 🍉 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Jamba was my go-to smoothie spot all through college and I still love treating myself to their sips because 1) they’re delicious and 2) hello nostalgia! 🥰 It’s been SO hot here in Colorado and lemme tell you, taking this smoothie with me to the park was 100% the best idea ever. 
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And if you wanna try it yourself, you can get a medium Watermelon Breeze smoothie for just $5 on #NationalWatermelonDay when you use code: MELONDAY in-store, online or on the #Jamba app 
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🍉Who else is a watermelon fan? 🍉 #sponsored


My Summer Steps Challenge starts TODAY! 👟💕🎶 Walks are better with friends so of course I had to call on the help of my “twin” @dancing.for.donuts to help me get my 30 min of steps in today. 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
If you’re joining this month long walking challenge be sure to sign up for my private FB group and say hi!! (Link in bio) It’s so cool to see women walking from all over the world… Greece, France, Philippines, Singapore, Guatemala, England and of course across many states in the USA 
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Share your walk updates in the FB group or on IG stories and tag me so I can cheer you on 🧡
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Let’s get steppin! 
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Transition inspo: @chelseaasoflate 
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#summerstepschallenge #morningroutine #morningwalk #healthyhabits #healthylifestyle #exercisedress #walkchallenge #healthyroutine


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It is never too late to:
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
✨ change your career
✨ stop a bad habit
✨ make new friendships 
✨ create a routine you love
✨ try something new 
✨ take a different path
✨ make healthy choices 
✨ pursue your dreams
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Every stage of life is it’s own adventure and I think it’s pretty incredible that we can constantly reinvent ourselves, don’t you think? 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
{wellness, self care, healthy habits, positive mindset, healthy lifestyle, balanced living, mindfulness} 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
#itsnevertoolate #positivemindset #balancedliving #healthylifestyle #motivationalreel #discoverunder100k #dailywellness #healthymindset
A walk among the sunflowers 🌻 and 5 simple life A walk among the sunflowers 🌻 and 5 simple life lessons inspired by them that we can reflect on:
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
✨ Follow the sunshine and do what makes you happy 
✨ Start each day with fresh energy and enthusiasm 
✨ Embrace your uniqueness and natural beauty 
✨ Don’t compare your timing to others, bloom when you’re ready 
✨ Welcome the rain, without it there’s no growth 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Are these cheesy? Yes. But can they be important reminders to help us shift our mindset and ground ourselves? Absolutely. 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
PS: For those asking, these sunflower fields are in Aurora right next to the Denver International Airport! They only bloom for a short time so I’m really thankful to have been able to witness them in all their glory. 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
🌻Colorado truly is beautiful🌻
(Photos by @hnguyenphotography) 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
#positivemindset #bloomwhereyouareplanted #sunflowerseason #romanticizeyourlife #mindfulness #mentalhealthmatters #selfgrowth #growthmindset
May this be the season you embrace the journey of May this be the season you embrace the journey of becoming who you were meant to be 🌻 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
{positive mindset, follow your dreams, mindfulness, mindful moment, mindset, daily affirmation}
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
#healthylifestyle #positivemindset #followyourdreams #goalsetting #motivationalreels #selfcare #selflovetips #romanticizeyourlife #sunflowerfield #lifeisbeautiful #beautifuldestinations
Just me, myself and I wearing three cute, summery Just me, myself and I wearing three cute, summery fits from @FPMovement available at @DicksSportingGoods! #ad
 
✨Which one is your favorite?✨
 
You all know my Summer Steps Walk Challenge is going strong and I’ve officially put all of these outfits to the test during my morning walks and loveee them. 👟💕They’re so cute and comfy but I also appreciate how versatile they are! I’m definitely wearing the onesie to all my yoga and pilates classes and the shorts + top combo is perfect for paddleboarding or even a hike! 
 
I’ve linked these in my stories so be sure to check them out. In the meantime, you’ll catch me in these during all my summer activities! ☀️ #FPMovement #DKSPartner
This color combo is giving 80’s aerobics vibes b This color combo is giving 80’s aerobics vibes but I’m here for it 🦋🛼🤸🏼‍♂️. 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
We may not have a formal dining table yet but we are absolutely loving our new #homegym set up (priorities 🤷🏻‍♀️) so I thought I’d share a few things equipment essentials that we love: 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
SWIPE TO THE END FOR A BEFORE/AFTER 
I still can’t get over how real the brick wallpaper looks 😳
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
✨ sliders
✨ @bala ankle weights 
✨ @popflex_active resistance bands
✨ foam roller 
✨ bolster 
✨ yoga blocks 
✨ dumbbells (5-25lbs)
✨ bench
✨ yoga mats 
✨ @onepeloton bike 
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Are you all mostly working out at home or in studio?
✨ GRWM ✨ morning skincare routine 
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I’m 33 years old, never had Botox or fillers, but def take my skincare regimen v seriously 💁🏻‍♀️. In my mid-twenties I started switching over to clean, cruelty-free beauty products and the difference I’ve seen in my skin has been wild. 
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I love seeing so many non-toxic & cruelty free options in places like Sephora and Ulta now 💕
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I do switch up products often as I’m always testing new things out but here are my current morning picks (all from tried and true brands that I’m obsessed with) 
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✨ @alpynbeauty plantgenius melt moisturizer 
✨ @byroe_official rose tea eye cream 
✨ @biossance Squalane & rose oil 
✨ @tataharperskincare hydrating floral essence 
✨ @tula glow & get it sunscreen
✨ @diviofficial scalp serum 
✨ @drunkelephant lippie balm 
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Do you spot any of your favorites in this lineup? 
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#morningroutine #healthylifestyle #cleanbeauty #morningskincare #healthyandhappy #grwm #dailywellness #crueltyfreebeauty #healthyhabits
An ode to summers in Colorado and all the vibrant, An ode to summers in Colorado and all the vibrant, warm memories it brings. ☀️💖
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There’s really nothing more therapeutic than allowing yourself to slow down and notice all the beauty around you. If being surrounded by nature has taught me anything, it’s that there is much more peace in learning to embrace rest and playfulness, than striving for constant productivity. 
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We can work hard and also make time for chasing sunsets, spending time with the people we love and making new memories. 🌿✨ 
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Less than 50 days left of summer — let’s make the most of it 
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#hiking #summertime #outdoorsygals #healthylifestyle #denverblogger #healthyhabits #balancedliving #dailywellness #wellbeing #balancedlifestyle
Idk about you but going to the Farmer’s Market o Idk about you but going to the Farmer’s Market on Sunday mornings has quickly become my favorite summer activity. 🌸☀️ it’s a great way to support local businesses while also stocking up on fresh produce and other favorite goodies for the week ahead! 
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I particularly love the one on South Pearl Street in Denver although I hear the one in Boulder is pretty amazing 
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Here’s what we typically stock up on:
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✨ Palisade peaches 
✨ Greens (this time it was rainbow chard) 
✨ Tomatoes, squash and peppers 
✨ Fresh bread 
✨ Sati Cold Brew (love their Samoa cookie one!)
✨ Jam and Almond butter 
✨ Artisanal pasta 
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Who else is obsessed with going to the farmers market?
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{wellness, healthy lifestyle, self care, healthy habits} 
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#healthyliving #healthylifestyle #balancedlifestyle #farmersmarket #farmersmarkethaul #eattherainbow #eatyourgreens #wellnessblogger #healthyandhappy
Balanced girl summer is truly where it’s at and Balanced girl summer is truly where it’s at and these are just a few of my fav recent eats & sips. 🌈 
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{wellness, self care, healthy lifestyle, healthy habits, balanced living, positive mindset, mindfulness}
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#balancedliving #balancedlifestyle #healthymindset #healthylifestyle #discoverunder100k #wellnessblogger #intuitiveeating #healthyandhappy
𝘐 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨.
To find appreciation for all that my body can do and consistently does for me every day
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𝘐 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺.
Not because I think it’s outwardly perfect, but because it is perfectly my own
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𝘐 𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘦𝘹𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘥.
Because every time my body can do something new, it’s worthy of celebration
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𝘐 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘨𝘢 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘺 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘥.
To remind myself through each flow and mindful breath just how beautiful this very moment is
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#myyogalife #mindfulness #mindfulmovement #instayoga #yogapractice #healthylifestyle #wellness #yogapose #yogateacher #balancedliving
National Watermelon Day is right around the corner National Watermelon Day is right around the corner (Aug 3rd) and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than with a fruity, refreshing Watermelon Breeze Smoothie from @jambajuice! 🍉 
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Jamba was my go-to smoothie spot all through college and I still love treating myself to their sips because 1) they’re delicious and 2) hello nostalgia! 🥰 It’s been SO hot here in Colorado and lemme tell you, taking this smoothie with me to the park was 100% the best idea ever. 
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And if you wanna try it yourself, you can get a medium Watermelon Breeze smoothie for just $5 on #NationalWatermelonDay when you use code: MELONDAY in-store, online or on the #Jamba app 
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🍉Who else is a watermelon fan? 🍉 #sponsored
My Summer Steps Challenge starts TODAY! 👟💕🎶 Walks are better with friends so of course I had to call on the help of my “twin” @dancing.for.donuts to help me get my 30 min of steps in today. 
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If you’re joining this month long walking challenge be sure to sign up for my private FB group and say hi!! (Link in bio) It’s so cool to see women walking from all over the world… Greece, France, Philippines, Singapore, Guatemala, England and of course across many states in the USA 
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Share your walk updates in the FB group or on IG stories and tag me so I can cheer you on 🧡
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Let’s get steppin! 
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Transition inspo: @chelseaasoflate 
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#summerstepschallenge #morningroutine #morningwalk #healthyhabits #healthylifestyle #exercisedress #walkchallenge #healthyroutine
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