Girl Chat: Luck

I am really wanting to get back into blogging more and connecting with other ladies again!  I was just chatting with my friend Nikki and we were saying how tricky it is to keep up with everything (life) and blogging always seems to be the first thing to go.

I saw this link up on Danielle's site and love the idea of "Girl Chat."  Today's topic is a time when you were lucky.  I definitely am on the fence of whether things are "luck" or simply acts from above.  I also wonder if we can truly manifest or create our luck in some situations.  

Either way, whatever you want to label it, you've got to check out some of the amazing stories being shared on this link up!! 

I feel incredibly blessed in many areas of my life and I guess you could even say that I am lucky.  However, I have had a few times in my life where I think luck does play a role.

I can't think of one single elaborate story of luck, so I'll share a few snippets.

That time we were in Las Vegas back in 2009 and I insisted on playing the slots at NY NY and I won $225 on that silly triple diamond game.

I've won a few giveaway items throughout my blogging, and from some of those winnings I gained a new friend.  Hi Rachel! 

I'm lucky that I stumbled into this blogging world back when I simply stayed home as a housewife, and found passion through sharing my words, thoughts and hearts here on the keyboard.  

I'm beyond lucky that I developed many close friendships because of this little blog; women who make my life better.  Women that even though I've never seen them face to face, all I need to see is a text on my phone or hear their sweet voices.  

I'm feel very lucky that we did not lose power last night.  We just had a crazy windstorm yesterday that left thousands of people in the dark, schools closed (Brooke is home today!) and we have stayed safe and with plenty of power.  I'm not sure if it's because we lost power last week and had new poles?? Either way, I'll take it.

I'm lucky to have the ability to stay home and raise our babies.  

I feel lucky that both of my children are healthy and well.  Sure they get colds and sniffles, but I'm talking about the heavy stuff. My heart aches so much for anyone who has a truly sick child.  That has got to be number one on my gratitude list each day. I thank God for healthy children.

I'm lucky that my husband (boyfriend at the time) showed me that it was ok and good for me to read and listen to "self help."  I don't know where I'd be if he hadn't shared that gift with me.

We were lucky that when in Europe for our honeymoon, the France airstrike happened in the afternoon as opposed to the morning when we flew from Paris to Rome.

I felt lucky in the last few weeks as random checks in my name started appearing.  I believe I manifested them, and I would love more to appear.  I believe that what you put out into the universe does come back to you.

I am lucky to have supportive friends and family on my down days and am grateful for them to help lift me up.  

I certainly feel lucky to have met my friend Shelby who shared the stella & dot opportunity with me! I love being a part of something and it may have taken a few tries to get to where I am today, but I am so so happy to be a stylist! Can it be July yet?!

I definitely feel mostly blessed more than lucky, but at times a little luck doesn't seem to hurt! I'm grateful for so many opportunities to find the silver linings in situations and to try and keep that positive outlook in every aspect of life. 

Do you believe in luck?

I confess...

...I wish I had a babysitter to hire so Nikki & I could go hit up the mall sans kids!! We were both laughing and saying we had the urge to go shopping, but with kids at the ages of 1, 2, & 3?  We were not ready for that mission. #thankgoodnessforonline

...We are supposed to hit 80 degrees today and THAT makes me a happy Summer Girl!

...I really want to just finish my book The Nest in one solid sitting.  I want to devour it up and feel so full of it, and yet I just don't have the time at the moment! I am reading first thing in the morning and making decent progress.

...I highly suggest going on social media fasts in the morning.  Starting each day by myself, with a book (No TV, phone, computer, ipad whatever!) It's so refreshing!

...I am loving all of the green buds on our trees!  Everything is slowly coming back to life!

...I'm on the struggle bus here with trying to get baby boy to drop the bottle.  Granted, I haven't tried very hard, but man, he looooooooves his 'ba ba' and it's not easy folks.

...It's been refreshing having another mommy of a toddler to hang out with!  I really need to make some new local friends.

...I want to buy new shorts, tops and jeans so badly! My post baby body is just not fitting into my old clothes; even though I weigh less than I did pre babies, it's just all different...and I need to feel confident when I dress.

...I got my new Summer bag from Stella & it's perrrrrrrfect!  I cannot wait to use it!

...I'm feeling that a little reset is needed.  Be on the lookout for some clean eating/cleanse posts soon.

...I also feel like I need to research new bubbies.  Yup. You heard.  Anyone have any tips?

...sometimes it hits me like whoa, I can't believe we own land and we are going to build a new house!

...we want chickens and I need to learn how to care for them! I've never owned chickens.

...the countdown is on for our weekend love trip!  Toronto is going to be a blast!

...toddlers make me want to drink lots and lots....and LOTS of wine.

...Nikki buzzed is kinda funny...

Have a fabulous day!!

I Couldn't Live Without

I've seen this linkup floating around and I thought it was lighthearted and fun, so here I am, participating!!  Obviously I couldn't live without my family and friends, but for fun, this week I couldn't live without my laptop.  Seriously, one of my favorite possessions…I wish I knew how to operate it some of its features a bit better--like editing a video! Oy, to have more spare time!



It's definitely my favorite "go-to" thing to do.  I'm not huge on TV watching, although I do have a few shows I enjoy.  I just love connecting my thoughts to words on a screen; it's rather therapeutic and there is no better way than doing so on this fancy MacBook.  The sleek black keys and smooth silver surface are just perfect for pouring out my ideas.



More than anything, my husband was sick of me getting viruses on my other laptop all of the time, and with this guy, nothing comes across--knock on wood!--  Joe also insisted that I get this uber snazzy laptop case [which I don't love, but I do think it's useful with two kids and a dog] I told him it looks like an old guy case though, haha.

I really notice how much I can't stand living without this, when Joe has his meetings for his tech startup and he takes it with him.  I'm kind of like a lost puppy, because the kids are finally in bed and I have some "me time" and no computer!  It's not the end of the world, but it's certainly the first thing I would enjoy doing, is catching up on my blog, with any spare time that I have.  I definitely fantasize about having free time to go to a beach house, overlooking a beautiful body of water…and writing.  I don't know what I would write about exactly, but some day when I have more time, I could definitely see myself doing that.  Man, a beach sounds wonderful right now!

There is just something really special about being able to record my thoughts and what my little family is up to…and then going back and reading it!! I can't tell you how many times I have gone back and re-read my blogs when Brooke was a baby--very helpful in comparing how mister B is doing. 

What is something that you couldn't live without!?

Five on Friday

1.  First things first, if you're looking for a HIGH quality firming body lotion--look no further!! I have always looked for something like this and the heavens have opened::: ahhh ::: Not only does it smell terrific, it soaks right in and legit is helping my skin stay firm, yet soft to the touch.  If you know what I'm talking about, it helps any lumps and bumps that may be appearing… I am not working out like I was a few months back, which I know helps the most, but this seriously is working its magic!

I legit squeezed every last drop!

SYS BODY

Supplement Your Skin™

Adding body lotion to your daily routine is a great way to improve the quality of your skin and help prevent the appearance of premature aging. SYS™ Body contains nourishing plant extracts to help improve overall skin texture, while providing a smoother appearance. Body is a combination of ginger extract, shea butter and copaiba oil, formulated to reduce puffiness and smooth and firm every skin type.

I'm loving the whole SYS line, and want to review more--but since I ran out of that and had to order more, I wanted to share stat!

2.  Dressing up is fun.

I don't have a ton of options lately, so I am making up for it with my accessories!  Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, headbands, smiles, you name it!! I know soon Jr. will be here and pulling on all of it, so I won't be able to wear it for a bit.  My best accessory is my daughter, of course. So when I can, I dress her up so all the attention goes to her!!

3.  I about died when I saw this graphic!! SO true.  If you're pounding coffee or energy drinks to keep up with life, talk to me. PUH-LEASE! Everyone needs this awesomeness in her life!  If I can help as many people feel as amazing as all my friends and I do when we drink Spark, I know I'm doing good in the world. hehe.

Spark

4.  Chiro in a bottle.  Obvs my pain is OOC, and very little helps…I refuse to take medicine unless it is absolutely necessary, and this seems to really help the sciatic nerve pain!  I apply it on the bottom of my feet and seriously it's one of my favorite smells.   It grounds me and helps me get through my tasks without completely crying in pain.  It also helps you with anxiety, courage, and clearly helps align the body.

5.  Roasting all the veggies!! I just cannot get enough. I tend to crave salty things, so instead of reaching for chips, I'll try to throw a bunch of veggies w/ some sea salt/pepper and evoo in the oven.  Oh, and see that yellow/green striped veggie?  That is Delicata squash. Aka lazy squash! You just cut it in half, scoop the seeds and slice!  You don't have to peel the outside, you can actually eat it! PERFECTION.  It kind of almost tastes like a sweet potato.

This Week in Workouts!

Good Sunday morning my sweets!! I hope you all and great week and that you're ready to rock this upcoming week with workouts.   Linking up again with Nikki and Ashley as we encourage and empower one another to break a sweat and be healthy!

With Joe home sick with Crohn's for a few days (Sun-Tues) and Brooke still nursing her Bronchiolitis, it was not a normal week around here.  I did what I could and even when I didn't want to do anything, I still tuned into a few quick TIU workouts and burned some calories.  Nothing impressive, but better than nothing.

Sun-Weds notta.
Thursday: TIU Kettlebell--OMG LOVED this!  I could feel it for two days after too!
Friday: TIU Love Your Body Yoga 
Saturday: TIU Abs/Arms

15 minute Kettlebell = 108 cals; not bad!

I tried the TIU girls last year and they certainly worked me out and then I forgot about them… So when I saw the gorgeous Elizabeth doing their workouts,  I checked it out again. I am a girlie girl through and through, and nothing speaks to me more than a pretty scene, flowers, soft lighting and pink. Haha. I am not a cross-fitter nor am I a runner.  I may be one day, but for now?  I am happy with being me.  And if the workout is glam and girlie? Heck yes, I'm in!!  At least I own it.

What are your favorite workouts this week?  Any good sports bra recommendations? I am thinking of trying the newer VS ones.  

This Week in Workouts

Workouts this week were pathetic.

I am keeping it real. I could totally fabricate and tell you all I worked out every day. But I am an honest person, and I want to keep myself accountable.  We all have off weeks, and this past one was mine.

I worked out once.

I have no excuses, I just need to be better.


Tuesday- CU24 Melt Move & walked dogs 1 mile.

I really loved the sweat I got--24 mins and I felt fantastic!!

That's all I got!  I know this cold weather is mentally messing with me, so I look forward to this new week to be able to kick some butt. I start my 24 day challenge on Monday, so with super clean eating and no extra sugar etc. I know my energy will soar. I am PUMPED!!

How do you stay motivated with snow piled up outside of your door and temps that don't go above 20 degrees?  I love to inspire others, but sometimes I need some inspiration too.


Happy Sunday my friends.  Here's to a better workout week ahead!

This Week in Workouts {Link up with us!}

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Time for our weekly workout linkup! Join Nikki, Ashley and me!

I hope you're all enjoying a beautiful Sunday!  I love this linkup; it's only our second week, but man...if you're anything like me and really don't love working out, then join IN!! I'm telling you, holding myself accountable to this is really helping me. I did NOT want to workout.  I struggled, but ya know what? I made myself do it and for that I am so proud.

No, I didn't workout every day, and no I'm not going going to sit here and give excuses why.  I just didn't.  Next week I hope to be better.

Sunday-Rest
Monday- CU24 Melt
Tuesday- Rest
Wednesday-Rest
Thursday- JM 6 Weeks 6 Pack [did you know that is on Amazon Prime?! Thank you Alison!]
Friday- Rest
Saturday- Light Yoga Stretches

My friend Danielle gave me this quote; love it.

I notice that the harder I workout, the more dehydrated I get [obvi] and How incredible is it that we have some tasty new flavors to enjoy!? I am obsessed with the Key Lime Cherry.  I am ordering Peach this week!  [Order here now! Won't last forever!]

One thing I want to stress is the need for lean protein. I absolutely love coaching people and the one thing I notice is that women especially, tend to not eat enough protein.  It is SO SO SO important.  I cannot even put into words how much better I feel when I get enough protein...I just had to share this.

I pretty much try to eat a lean protein at every meal.  When I say meal, I mean every 3-4 hours something goes into my mouth and preferably is a veggie or fruit and protein.  It's so important to create that balance! If I have a banana, I will have a little almond butter.  An apple and some walnuts.  If you're not losing the weight and you feel as though you're working out and eating clean, add some protein! So many options.

Lean and Clean!

Link up below and let's motivate each other!

Light

How cool is this picture? It was from our engagement photos in the spring of 2010.  I don't know why we never printed this!! Our photographer was amazing.

Engaged

The topic for day three is "Light" in honor of the beginning of Diwali or the Hindu festival of lights.  I didn't know much about it, so I looked up over here...basically the whole notion of goodness of light, triumphing over darkness or evil.  I don't get much into religion on my blog, but I am spiritual.  I respect all types of religions and those who are devoted in their practice.  I definitely find it interesting to see how other cultures celebrate.

I love everything about this topic.  First thoughts that pop into my head is actual light, such as the sun, its warmth, the feeling of happiness as it shines on my face.  I also love the flickering glow of a candle or the sparks from a flame in a glowing fireplace.  There is something so tranquil about looking at fire, or lighting a candle.

 
 It just represents coziness and a homey feeling to me.  I couldn't have been happier when I met Joe and saw he had a fireplace in the living room!! It certainly makes for us being a tad on the hermit side on the cold, long wintery nights, but I really do love it.

What about inner light?  Do you allow yourself to truly shine through? Or perhaps you believe in a higher power...

I am always working on my patience and my ability to appreciate the now.  For some reason, even a candle light makes me want to slow down and just embrace the moment.  I took this photo a few years ago, 2009 to be exact.  I was in a bit of an argument with Joe and had to stop myself on a walk.  I realized that I had to start being a better girlfriend and change a few things about myself...a few weeks later, he proposed.  I would look at this photo daily to remind me how lucky I am, and to stop focusing on negatives. I still have the photo...

our street

Life is so hectic, busy, crazy, on demand, and our society is all "we want it now!" I am guilty of falling into this rat race, and really do make conscious efforts to push pause on all else, and devote time to myself, my daughter and my husband.  Joe & Brooke are the light of my lives and I know I would be nowhere near as complete and whole, without them.  And because of that, they come first above anything else going on in my life.   When something is so precious to you, don't you do all that you can to preserve it? Make sure that you're doing everything in your power to make sure they're happy, fulfilled and loved.  In order to take care of them, of course I have to take care of myself too.

my view as I type this--yes, hubby is playing Madden!

So I hope that on this Sunday, you too are able to sit back and enjoy a few moments...focus on the positive in your life and what is making you happy.  Perhaps you can light a candle and simply take a few deep breaths and realize how grateful you truly are.

{I so badly want to end this, "N'amaste!!}

But seriously, I do hope your lives are full of happy light~enjoy your day friends!

Spring {pin} Fashion

Happy Hump Day!

I am so excited to be playing around with some of the spring fashion trends. I am not excited about this snow still falling though!!  I loved my chevron dress I wore for Easter {here} and the colors couldn't be more springy!

I just bought a Chambray top finally since I was holding out until I gave birth.  I wasn't too sure how long this trend would stay, but I'm so happy that it did! Now some cute ways to wear it::

I need some leather jeggings...

Source: refinedstyle.tumblr.com via Jenn on Pinterest

Love this maxi/coral combo

Source: dlp22.polyvore.com via Jenn on Pinterest

Pretty {simple} white accents.

Source: obaz.com via Jenn on Pinterest

I cannot wait for white pants!

Source: refinedstyle.tumblr.com via Jenn on Pinterest

Romantic with pink frilly.

Source: thevaultfiles.blogspot.com via Jenn on Pinterest

Denim on denim.
Is that like racks on racks on racks?
No?
OK.

Source: refinedstyle.tumblr.com via Jenn on Pinterest

I still love my denim jacket....I'd love to try:

Copped jean jacket with white pants and brown accents.

Source: polyvore.com via Jenn on Pinterest

White dress....presh!

Source: obaz.com via Jenn on Pinterest

Pastel pants.  Where does one {big booty hoe} find these awesome pants??

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Lovely layers.

Source: cynthia335.polyvore.com via Jenn on Pinterest

Yellow crush.

Source: lmm2nd.polyvore.com via Jenn on Pinterest

And of course, like most well dressed ladies, I have coral on my mind.

Source: coombsie24.polyvore.com via Jenn on Pinterest

Love these!

Source: lifes-a-journal.com via Jenn on Pinterest

So while I'm still workin on my fitness, you can stop with the snow mother nature. I'm ready for the weather to break!!

Pinteresting Hair-Day!!

I am SO happy Wednesday is here!
I'm getting my hair did!!!
Now, I usually get my hair dyed really blonde, 

but since being prego, I just don't want to paint my scalp.
Personal preference.

So I tried the highlight only route, and I just don't love the root-age.

So?
Here are some of my thoughts for my awesome hair dresser to try and re-create.

If you remember my plea for help in this post,
I was all about finding a new look--

I am LOVING the length of my hair, even though it's a pain in the boot-ay to dry,

but I am ready for a change in the color.
So what better than to dream away via Pinterest!!

 

Thoughts?

If I had the guts, I'd chop it to this...

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So preeeeeeeeeeeetty

Source: google.com via Jenn on Pinterest

She somehow always finds her way in my hair-spiration:

Source: besthairstyle.us via Jenn on Pinterest

LOVE the dark streaks...what has gotten into me?

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Definitely want a few more layers & maybe some more bang

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