About Me

About the Beach Babe in the Burgh - Julie

First the back story. How did this beach babe end up in Pittsburgh?

I grew up in Southern Maryland by the Chesapeake Bay in a small town called Lusby, about an hour south of Annapolis. If you've heard of it that's because you know of Solomon's Island or the Patuxent River Naval Air Base, which is "across the bridge." More than likely you haven't though...but trust me it is gorgeous. Almost 8 years ago I agreed to trade the then mild winters and sunny days for the snow and cold of Pittsburgh to attend Washington and Jefferson College (W&J) in Washington, PA. Why? Well first, my parents grew up in Pittsburgh and the majority of my extended family still lives here. Plus I visited W&J on a nice spring weekend...which can be few and far between (I'm not bitter or anything). The rest is well, typical. I received a job after college, wanted to get out of the small town and having family around was a big plus! Almost 4 years post college I do enjoy Pittsburgh...except the fact that there is no beach, the winters are cold...and snowy...and did I mention cold? Okay, well they're really cold. The summers have their perks, especially having a pool! Some days I miss my parents in MD and the beach of the bay waters, but I still visit frequently! The beach I really miss is Byron Bay Australia, where I really left my heart. Thankfully I have a gorgeous photograph in my living room, but the small beach town is my heaven on earth.

Lusby, MD

Photograph by John D'Errey** Frame by Lee Heckman Custom Framing***

What does this beach babe do now?

After receiving a Bachelor's degree in Accounting with a minor in Information Technology I obtained my CPA* and worked in a big four public accounting firm for 2.5 years which was, well, a learning experience, but I have learned over the past year that I enjoy the corporate accounting world much better. Including having a desk. A desk I come to every day, where I can leave my coffee and water cups. If you've made the switch you understand, but if you're still in consulting you may long for your own real desk. The little things. Really.

Starting in high school I began working out in order to play the sport I enjoyed, Field Hockey, however over the past 8 years I've begun to develop a true love for working out. Last year I ran the Pittsburgh Half Marathon, which was an amazing experience that I am beyond happy I completed. I've had my set backs since I began working out, possibly more than normal, but I don't let that stop me. Most recently dealing with a slight disc tear in my back...fun stuff!! My health journey is a daily learning experience combined between learning what to eat, when to eat, when to splurge, and the best workouts for me.

May 3, 2015
13.1 miles, 2:36:44

What can I expect to read in your blog beach babe?

Honestly that is a good question. I have a lot of ideas and I'm excited to put pen to paper...or finger to the keyboard? Well, you get the point! You (and I) will have to wait and see what will come of it, however some of my ideas include:

• Recommending/reviewing my favorite workout studios (and free workouts throughout the Pittsburgh area)
• Workout clothing - I am a serious Nike addict, but I have various brands I love and ALWAYS shop for deals!
• Shopping deals - Like I just mentioned I am a SERIOUS sale shopper and deal shopper. I'd love to share my favorite ways to get the most for your money and where you should really splurge a little (aka the photograph of your favorite place in the world and a nice custom frame for it)
• Meal ideas and nutritional info - as I mentioned I'm constantly learning on my health journey. I'd love to share my learning with you!
• Workout playlists (Spotify) - Along with the previous idea I'd love to help create a motivating playlist that you use during your kick-ass workouts!
• Simple photography tips and tricks - I am a nerd when it comes to Photography. I took over 10,000 photographs in 4 months in Australia. Plus, my friend and I would stay home from the bar and edit photos for hours. I'll keep it simple for the most part.

Notes

*I am a Certified Public Accountant, but none of my posts will be professional accounting advice. Sorry, I'm a corporate accountant and would not be comfortable utilizing my license outside of my knowledge realm.

** John D'Erry is AMAZING! He's a local Byron Bay Photographer. Check out his work. http://www.johnderrey.com/

***Lee Heckman Custom Framing did a fantastic job on my frame and I couldn't be more pleased! Check them out and I'll post a full review down the road! http://leeheckman.com/