I wasn’t planning on doing a “favorite things” post for the holidays but a few people have inquired about my favorite fitness and yoga gear and kitchen tools so I thought I’d put together a quick list of some of my must haves.
KITCHEN
Kitchen Aid Professional 600 Series 6-Quart Mixer. My baby. Seriously the most cherished thing in my kitchen. This was my Christmas gift from my parents the year after I graduated from college. I use it for everything from baking cookies to mashing potatoes.
Cuisinart Grind and Brew 10-Cup Thermal Coffeemaker. We’ve had this coffeemaker for over five years and there’s no way I could ever go back to buying pre-ground coffee. Using whole beans makes so much difference in the flavor of the coffee. There is a little more to clean but it’s totally worth it. Also, the thermal carafe keeps the coffee warm for hours which is perfect for us since I get up so much earlier than Brandon. The coffee doesn’t sit on a warmer and get that burnt taste.
All-Clad Stainless 2-Quart Saucepan. I think it’s important to invest in quality cookware, especially if you enjoy cooking. I use this 2-quart saucepan daily. It’s the perfect size for oatmeal, heating soup and sauces and for cooking rice and other grains.
Dizzy Pig Seasoning Rubs. My dad discovered these rubs years ago and we’ve been huge fans ever since. We have every single rub that they offer and use them not only for grilling but also for seasoning meats and veggies for indoor cooking. Very high-quality product and excellent and very personal customer service.
Peugeot u’Select Lacquered Salt and Pepper Mills. I love these salt and pepper mills from Williams-Sonoma. I keep them on my stovetop so that I can season my food as I cook with freshly ground sea salt and peppercorns.
William-Sonoma Goldtouch Nonstick Jelly Roll Pan. I adore the entire Williams-Sonoma Goldtouch line and use it exclusively for baking. I particularly love this jelly roll pan because it’s perfect for cookies but it’s also my go-to for roasting veggies since it has the raised edges.
WORKOUT
Sweaty Bands. I don’t wear headbands often but when I do these are my headband of choice. They stay in place and come in tons of cute designs and colors.
Lululemon Wunder Unders. I live in these pants. I love the crop and the full-length legging.
Garmin Forerunner 305 with Heart Rate Monitor. I love my Garmin and the ability to synch it to my computer to track my workouts. I totally credit the Garmin with making me a faster runner. It’s crazy what being aware of your pace can do for your running. It’s a great training tool!
Zensah Compression Sleeves. I got hooked on compression sleeves when I was training for Marine Corps last year and I still like to wear them for runs (and post run) on days when my legs are feeling a little fatigued.
Lululemon Stride Jacket. I wear this jacket pretty much every day. I’m sure that people at the studio and at the gym think that I have no other clothes. It’s so comfortable. My favorite features are the thumbholes and the turtleneck collar and hood. You can bundle as much as you need to!
Lululemon Destined for Greatness Duffle. For the longest time I did not own a gym bag. I carried my stuff around like a hobo using shopping bags. I finally invested in this bag this year and I carry it everywhere I go. It has a padded sleeve for my laptop, a special compartment for sweaty clothes, a mat strap and more. Love it!
YOGA
Manduka Black Mat Pro. I’ve had my Manduka for a year and a half now and it’s still just as good as the day I got it. These mats are thick, easy to grip and sturdy. A bit on the expensive side but completely worth the price.
Yogitoes. If you practice hot yoga or just tend to get really sweaty in yoga and slip on your mat, Yogitoes are a must. You place the towel over your mat and it provides a no-slip surface. The sweatier you get, the better it works!
So there is my holiday roundup! Let me know if you have any questions and I’d love to hear what some of your “must haves” are for kitchen, workout and yoga!
