Lynds in Real Life

A Lifestyle Blog

Health Las Vegas

Working My Way Toward Wellness With Stretch Therapy – Week Two

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My first two weeks of stretch therapy at Kika Stretch Studios Summerlin were phenomenal! My last post was written before I had my stretch therapy sessions, and this post is to give you my impressions (& what the sessions are like), as well as an update of how I’m feeling (hint: great!).

Kika stretch therapy at Kika stretch studios Summerlin

The first two sessions (with Tamara) were really amazing! I’ve been suffering from low back pain for a very long time; I’d say at least a decade. In these stretch sessions, Tamara guided me and truly helped me stretch all the muscles in my body. I’d say it’s pretty similar to doing restorative yoga, but during this, you have a certified stretch therapist to really push and stretch your body. I’ll have to take video at my next session so you can see what I mean!

So like I said, it gives me yoga + Pilates vibes. However, it also incorporates physical therapy and massage therapy. Imagine those four things rolled into one, and that’s what you get with Kika stretch sessions. [basically, wellness perfected]

Kika stretch studios Summerlin Kika stretch therapy health wellness

My low back honestly feels better than before! It’s not perfect, and the pain does come back about four days after my session (which they said is typical). But my back does feel better than it did two weeks ago.

TL;DR: the stretch sessions are relaxing, yet invigorating. It’s my favorite part of my week! The studio is beautiful, my stretch therapist is knowledgeable and nice, and my back feels better (even if only a little bit).

This week, I’m hoping to work on my neck, because I pulled a muscle and I can’t turn my head! *facepalm*

•What would you want to work on in stretch therapy? Share with us in the comments!

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Lifestyle

The American Dream: What Nobody Tells You About Moving To The West Coast

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Pexels – CC0 License

The ‘American Dream’ isn’t only for non-US citizens. Whether you live in the North, East, or South, the idea of moving out west seems very appealing. There is incredible nature mixed with year-round sunshine. Plus, Vegas nightlife is perfect for anyone who needs to let off steam!

Of course, the west coast is good, but it isn’t flawless. Before moving out here, it’s essential to understand the things that no one mentions to improve your lifestyle. Once you do that, the west will be the paradise you’ve heard about from others.

Here’s what nobody tells you about moving to the west:


It Won’t Solve All Your Problems

There’s a big difference between moving to make a fresh start and running away from your problems. Moving home is one of life’s most stressful events and adapting to any new place brings challenges as well as rewards. Being realistic about this can go a long way towards easing the transition period.

So that you have a reasonable idea of what to expect, do plenty of research before you get here. One of the big advantages of the west coast is that there’s plenty of information about it available online. Just be sure to look at local area sites pitched at potential residents rather than at tourists.

Be aware that sober living can be a challenge on the west coast. That challenge can get even harder if you’re new and trying to make friends. There’s never any shortage of wild parties here!  Fortunately, there are plenty of other ways to socialize. There’s also plenty of help if you need it. You can find everything from informal counseling to sober living facilities.

You’ll Need A Car

This is particularly pertinent if you’re an east coaster. In New York, the subway takes you from place to place without a glitch. And if the trains fail, there are regular buses. The same isn’t true of the west coast, where public transport is sporadic and unreliable, and the cities are massive. Therefore, a car is essential if you want to get around quickly and easily. Sometimes, even walking to the store for milk and bread isn’t possible without a ride. If you don’t have one already, you will need to speak to a dealer. At least it will save you money on a moving truck!

Pexels – CC0 License

Speaking Spanish Helps

Immigration from Mexico and the rest of Latin America is pretty big in the west. Whether you live in Cali or Arizona, there’s a good chance you’ll come across Spanish-speakers. Some of them might not speak English, either, which can leave you in a tricky spot. It’s not necessary to be fluent, although it doesn’t hurt. But getting a grasp of basic phrases will come in handy for communication purposes, helping you to feel less awkward and make new friends. The west coast is as multilingual as it gets in the US.

Your Friends Will Want To Visit

Once they hear you’ve relocated, the first thing they’ll say is, “we’ll come and visit you sometime!” Based on that, you might want to consider the size of property on the market. A small house will suffice for now, but it won’t be comfortable if your friends visit regularly. It’s not as if a spare bedroom will be a waste, as long as you can afford the extra costs.

Now that you know some of the truths about the west coast, are you ready to move? Just an FYI, despite all this, I moved from the east to west coast and have no regrets! Both LA and Las Vegas have been great homes for me.

Thank you for reading!

This post was a collab.

Las Vegas

Monopolies Are Bad For Nevadans, Here’s Why

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This post is sponsored by Nevada Speaks.

I have loved living in Nevada for the past 2 years. It’s such a cool state, full of beauty, history, recreation, and of course, Las Vegas (where I’m living currently)!

visitlasvegas.com
The cost of living is relatively low (at least compared to where I lived before moving to Nevada). I’ve lived in a few apartments here, and my boyfriend and I are currently in the process of moving into a house. It’s exciting!
But, there’s a problem. Monopolies. And I’m not talking about the board game. You don’t get to collect $200. It’s more like you have to give away that $200, to the ONE energy company available in Nevada.
With the energy monopolies, Nevadans have no choice in which company/service they use. Without competition, Nevadans have to pay whatever the energy company says. Don’t want to pay it? Fine, but you won’t have any power. The options are: pay what you’re told, or live in a powerless apartment/house.
Let’s be real, that’s not a fair choice. So we are stuck paying possibly hundreds of dollars a month on our electric bill. With no competition, this energy company is free to charge whatever they want. They don’t have to worry about us going to a different company… because there isn’t one!

It’s clear: more competition = lower rates.

#YesOn3 #YesQuestion3

 

  • What are your thoughts on monopolies? Are we better with them, or without them? Comment below!

 

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Events Las Vegas Races

The Color Run Las Vegas + A Four-Pack Ticket Giveaway

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I’ve been training for a half marathon (my first EVER!), and running has proved to be HARD. It’s definitely harder than I imagined. I realized that if I’m doing something fun while I’m running, it’s a lot easier. Luckily for me, and the entire city of Las Vegas, the #Happiest5k on the planet will be here Feb. 24: The Color Run Hero Tour!

Celebrate the hero in you at The Color Run Hero Tour with new course elements like: A Hero Zone, two SUPER Zones featuring double the color, a super-charged Finish Festival, superhero themed elements and more. It’s the perfect event to have FUN while being active!

You can look forward to the super charged Finish Festival after the run that will be brimming with adorable Instagrammable photo ops! This festival will feature a Grub Garden, with food vendors and outdoor seating, plus a Hero Zone, which is a trampoline photo-op activation that gives Color Runners the opportunity to soar into the sky and capture their #TCRHero moment. There will be a foam area, music, and dancing. The Color Run’s signature massive color will throw every few minutes from the main stage!

When: Saturday, February 24 ::  8:00 a.m.

Where: Downtown Las Vegas :: 945 Fremont St Las Vegas, NV 89101

What’s Included: This year’s kit features a unicorn hero medal, lightning bolt tee, temporary tattoos, pin, buff, and color packet.

I’m signed up as part of a team: Sweat Pink Las Vegas, & you should join too! Men and women welcome 🙂 Sign up through my link here! 

Check In Party: 

Come to the Check-In Party and pick up your participant kit in advance to avoid lines on event day!

Where: Downtown Container Park
707 Fremont St
Las Vegas, NV 89101

When: Friday February 23, 2018
12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Charity Highlight

As the #Happiest5K on the Planet, TCR wants to make the world a happier place. They’re teaming up with Three Square to work toward a hunger-free community.  There are 3 ways to get involved:

* Bring non-perishable canned goods to thelocal food drive at The Color Run event.

* Donate now HERE!

* Virtual Food Drive HERE!

Instagram Giveaway

Head on over to my Instagram to enter the giveaway for a FOUR-PACK of tickets to The Color Run Las Vegas!

 

Disclosure: I received free entry to The Color Run in the hopes I’d mention it on my blog. No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are my own.
  • Have you completed The Color Run 5k?
  • How do you make running fun?

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Food Las Vegas Lifestyle

The Best Brunch Spot in Vegas; 7th & Carson DTLV

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Downtown Las Vegas is my absolute favorite place in Vegas. When people visit, they tend to think The Strip is the only place to eat, party, and experience Vegas culture. Personally, I’d skip The Strip for Downtown any day. Downtown, AKA Old Vegas, AKA Fremont St. is a mecca of art, entertainment, and most importantly, FOOD! Halloween weekend, I joined my favorite ladies from Vegas Lifestyle Influencers for a Spooky Soirée Brunch at 7th & Carson (and yes, we all dressed in costume!). 7th & Carson is a brand new restaurant located on Carson Ave in DTLV, and it is AMAZE.

The girls from Vegas Lifestyle Influencers and I were greeted with Hot Melon cocktails by owner Liam Dwyer (incredibly nice and knowledgeable guy). The Hot Melon consists of Jalapeño Tequila, Fresh Watermelon, Mint, and Cracked Pepper. It was created by Liquid Chef Oscar Takahashi, and was SO delicious!

We were then seated inside 7th & Carson, which was quaint, casual, and trendy. I especially loved the different patterns on each table, and the exposed ventilation on the ceiling.

We were ready to experience some of the unique brunch options, created by Chef Gregg Fortunato! First on the list:

YOGURT PARFAIT
Toasted Granola, Seasonal Berries, Local Honey

The cream was a nice addition to the parfait. At first, it seemed unnecessary. But then I mixed it with the yogurt, and it added a nice touch of flavor! Next, we tried:

GRILLED PEACH + BURRATA
Arugula, Black Pepper Honey, Basil Pesto

The grilled peach + burrata salad was probably my favorite! I’m not much of a salad eater, mainly because they usually taste plain. However, this salad was full of yummy flavors and textures. I’d never had burrata before, but I definitely love it! The touch of honey made it perfect. Then we had:

BREAKFAST PIZZETTA
Scrambled Egg, Bacon, Fresh Mozzarella

I wasn’t sure how I felt about scrambled eggs on pizza, but now I realize I have been missing out my entire life! This breakfast pizzetta was so delicious, I ate at least 2 pieces. Up next:

BRIOCHE FRENCH TOAST
Whipped Butter, Peaches, Lavender Syrup

Aside from the grilled peach and burrata salad, the Brioche French Toast is my favorite! The peaches, lavender syrup, and mint leaves created a unique and mouthwatering taste. I can’t wait to go back for more! Then we tried:

AVOCADO TOAST
Sourdough, Avocado, 63° Egg

This is not your average avocado toast. The fresh avocado with the 63° egg was light, yet fulfilling. I could order 100 of these and be happy! Lastly, we tried:

CHICKEN + WAFFLES
Apple Waffle, House Fried Chicken,
Bourbon Syrup

Who doesn’t love chicken and waffles?! It’s such a weird, but perfect combination. The chicken was crispy, the apple waffles were the best I’ve ever had, and the diced apples paired perfectly with the dish. The bourbon syrup was to die for!

I was so pleased with our brunch at 7th & Carson. I can’t wait to take my boyfriend; I’ve been raving about it for weeks. I also really want to try their lunch and dinner menu!

Thank you 7th & Carson for the preview and sampling of your brunch menu! I had the best time, and will be back soon!

The beautiful ladies from Vegas Lifestyle Influencers ♥ [I’m hidden in the back, to the right]
Photo credit: @homeinhighheels

I’d also like to thank the wonderful sponsors for making this soirée possible!

Pistache Skincare, Purlisse Beauty, Red Cherry Lashes, & Sugarpova

7th & Carson

616 E. Carson #110

Las Vegas, NV 89101

702.868.3355

www.7thandcarson.com

@7thAndCarson

THURSDAY TO MONDAY: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Reservations@7thAndCarson.com

  • What’s your favorite brunch item?

  • What’s your drink of choice during brunch? Answer in the comments below!

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Las Vegas Lifestyle

Eat, Work, Play, Exercise, and Live, All in One Place: The Gramercy Vegas

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I used to nanny in Playa Vista, CA, aka Silicon Beach. I loved it because it had condos/apartments, shopping, restaurants, and even a movie theater within walking distance. I haven’t been able to find anything like that in Las Vegas. When I first moved here June 2016, I lived in a 327 sq ft. studio (I know, right?!). When I was searching for a much-needed upgrade, I looked specifically for apartments near retail and restaurants. I’m not always in the mood to go far from my place. Unfortunately, I didn’t find exactly what I was looking for. At least not yet.

Driving down the 215-W, after dropping off my boyfriend at Mandalay Bay, I was always noticing this big sign for The Gramercy.

Photo Credit: Gramercy Vegas Facebook Page

Shortly after first noticing the sign (what was it for, I wondered?!), Vegas Lifestyle Influencers announced the opportunity to check it out: a brand new residential apartment complex, complete with retail, restaurants, and office space!

We were greeted with champagne & swag bags

With the ladies of Vegas Lifestyle Influencers inside Pinches Tacos :: Photo By: @InAndOutOfVegas

RETAIL

Restaurants:

  • Pinches Tacos
  • DW Bistro
  • Portion Control
  • The Cuppa Coffee Bar
  • Kitchen Table (coming soon!)

Tacos el Pastor + Blood Orange Margarita @ Pinches Tacos

Exercise:

  • Raw Fitness

Beauty:

  • NOHEA Nails

 

Chicken + Zoodles / Chalk Wall at Portion Control

The Gramercy offers:

  • Studios, one, two, and three bedroom apartments and penthouse lofts
  • Urban-style luxury apartments (private balconies, high ceilings, open kitchens)
  • Underground parking , direct access elevators, and plenty of guest parking
  • Work, play, eat, and exercise without leaving home!
  • Play with your pup at the dog park
  • Resident perks
  • Conveniently located (15 minutes to The Strip, 10 minutes to Downtown Summerlin)

For more information on The Gramercy Vegas, visit their website, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter!

  • What do you look for in an apartment complex?
  • What is one thing you’d love to suggest to add to The Gramercy?

 

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Las Vegas

PizzaRev Taproom Opens A New Location in Las Vegas

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PizzaRev Taproom, a Craft Your Own™ pizza restaurant, opened in Las Vegas a couple weeks ago. My boyfriend and I had the opportunity to visit, create our own pizzas, and choose from 18 beer and wine selections!

At PizzaRev, you’re able to create your own pizza. You choose the crust, sauce, cheese, meats, veggies, and seasoning. Then, they put the pizza in a stone oven and bake it at 900°. It comes out crispy and perfect!

Other than getting to craft my own pizza, my favorite thing about PizzaRev is the wall of beer. There are 16 different brews to choose from, plus 2 wine choices. They serve Woodchuck Cider, which is one of my favorites, so I got a glass of that!

The pizza was delicious, the cider was crisp and cold, and the atmosphere was very inviting and casual. I definitely recommend PizzaRev, especially when you’re near The Strip! It’s on Sahara at Rancho, which is only a couple streets from Las Vegas Blvd (The Strip). We can’t wait to go back!

  • Get half-priced beer and wine with the purchase of a pizza during Happy Hour; every day, 3-6pm.
  • Apply to host a fundraiser.
  • Join PizzaRev rewards, and work your way to earning free pizza!

Follow PizzaRev for updates, new items, and deals! You can find them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and their website.

 

PizzaRev Taproom – Sahara Rancho
2400 S. Rancho Drive Suite #100 // Las Vegas, NV 89102
702.665.6170

 

  • PizzaRev is all over the country; have you been to one?

  • What’s your favorite beer?

 

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Las Vegas Reviews

The Perfect Father’s Day Gift for Las Vegas Lovers

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This post is sponsored and contains affiliate links.

I moved to Las Vegas, NV a little over a year ago, and I’ve grown to love this city and all its art. I found a poster of the city of Las Vegas through ModernMapArt (aff. link) and I had to have it!

This Las Vegas poster shows thousands of streets in Las Vegas, with the different widths representing the sizes of the roads. It’s printed on museum-quality, thick, matte paper and uses UltraChrome ink. The poster is also fingerprint resistant. You can get it in white or red!

I framed my 16×20″ white print and hung it above my TV in my living room. It’s the perfect focal point!

This print comes in multiple sizes: 8×10, 12×18, 16×20, 18×24, and 24×36. The price ranges from $29.99 USD to $79.99 USD, depending on the size.

I highly recommend this print for all Las Vegas lovers! It’s a great gift, whether it’s Father’s Day, a birthday, or Christmas.

You can get your Vegas poster here.  It takes about 3-5 days to process and another 3-5 days to ship if in the US (ships worldwide, though!). It does not come with a frame, but I got mine on Amazon (aff. link) for about $15 and it fits perfectly!

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Las Vegas

Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill Opens in Las Vegas (Summerlin)

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Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill, a California company, is opening its doors to Las Vegas (Summerlin) Monday, May 8, 2017! Founder Steve Paperno wanted to combine the “variety of flavors he experienced traveling through Mexico with innovative recipes and his passion for healthy living.” Sharky’s uses fresh, natural, non-GMO, and organic ingredients, as well as antibiotic-free meats.

I had the opportunity to try Sharky’s before they opened, and I’ve got to say, I am IMPRESSED!

I tried the California Tacos (2 taco plate) served with a side salad (pictured below).

I also ordered the house-made red sangria. I’ve tried countless sangrias, and this one definitely takes the cake! I could taste how fresh it was.

My boyfriend tried the half-size Sharky’s Chicken Salad, and the California Tacos with avocado (2 taco plate). He gave me his mandarin oranges. 😉 This salad is so beautiful and colorful!

The lovely people at Sharky’s make fresh juices, too. Lemonade, watermelon basil, and hibiscus. We tried the watermelon basil and the hibiscus. SO YUMMY!

Watermelon Basil on left, hibiscus on right

I took a photo of the menu, but I’ll admit, it’s not the best photo! You can find the online menu here.

The atmosphere was perfect, for both casual and intimate dining. The lights are dim, but not so much that you can’t see. There are booths, tables, and high tables. The ceiling is industrial-like (but the pretty kind), and the walls are wood. There’s a huge window in the front which lets in great natural light (but not the glaring sun). There is an outdoor patio that’s very nice as well!

Also, here’s my cute date:

I recommend signing up for the Fin-Addict™ rewards program. You get points just for purchasing food and drinks (pre-tax)! The info on that program can be found here.

Don’t forget to follow Sharky’s on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (plus their website, www.sharkys.com)!

If you’re not in the mood to dine-in, you can order online and take it to-go!

Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill
8975 W Charleston Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89117
702.255.5605
  • What kind of ingredients do you look for in a quality restaurant?
  • Do you have a Sharky’s restaurant near you? If so, have you visited?
  • What would be your favorite item on the menu?
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Kids/Nannying Las Vegas

SeaQuest Interactive Aquarium, A New Kids Attraction, Comes to Las Vegas + GIVEAWAY

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Are you traveling to Las Vegas and looking for kids activities? Do you live in Las Vegas and want to entertain your kids off the strip? You’re in luck: SeaQuest Interactive Aquarium just opened at Boulevard Mall (Official Grand Opening is the last weekend in April), and it is AMAZING.

Disclosure: I received a free family membership to SeaQuest Aquarium as part of a blog partnership. No monetary compensation was received. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

SeaQuest is a 28k square foot interactive aquarium inside Boulevard Mall in Vegas. Interactive = “if you can reach it, you can touch it.” There are several exciting exhibits, ranging from fish to parakeets, to snakes and sharks. I visited SeaQuest with the kids I nanny, and we had the best time (they said it was the most fun they’ve ever had)! We were able to feed fish and ducks, sit in an aviary with the birds, and pet the sting rays.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The sting rays were probably my favorite. We were feeding them, and they kept “jumping up” for more! I pet them a few times and they’re really slimy. They were so cute! I also really liked these fish that dig themselves into the sand.

There’s also a big sulcata tortoise and a tiny baby tortoise. The baby tortoise was so small, he fit in my hand. I loved them!

 We saw a huge snake and I got to hold a starfish!

A Few Facts:

  • Second location in the US (first location in Utah)
  • You can snorkel with the sharks!!
  • Famous mermaid @TheMermaidShannon can be found swimming in the aquariums!
  • All teachers get in free with ID
  • They host field trips and overnights
  • Nighttime tours available
  • Licensed vendors bring the animals
  • Animals are quarantined first to make sure they’re safe
  • There’s a marine specialist on-site, and a vet off-site
  • Nothing is native to Nevada (not allowed)
  • Base is 12 years and under, but it’s for everyone!



 

 

 

 

 

// GIVEAWAY + DISCOUNT \\

I’ve partnered with SeaQuest to offer a discount and a giveaway.

Discount: Use code lyndsinreallifeday25 for 25% off daily admission (expires June 30, 2017), to be purchased online only at www.seaquestaquariums.com.

The giveaway prize is one FREE BIRTHDAY PARTY at SeaQuest Las Vegas for 10 guests!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway Terms and Conditions: Giveaway ends April 28, 2017 at midnight (PST). Open to residents of the US, 18 & over only. No purchase necessary.  Winner will be selected by rafflecopter.com and be notified by email. The winner has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected. Please note that Lynds in Real Life is not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are in no way associated with this giveaway.  By providing your information in this form, you are providing your information to me and me alone.  I do not share or sell information and will use any information only for the purpose of contacting the winner.
Seaquest Aquarium
Boulevard Mall
3528 S Maryland Pkwy
Las Vegas, NV 89169
702.906.1901

www.seaquestaquariums.com/vegas

 

 

Single-Day Admission:
Ages 2–11: $9.95
Ages 12+: $14.95
Ages 55+, Military: $12.95
  • Have you ever been to an interactive aquarium?
  • Who would you host the birthday party for?

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