Honestly all, I'm not even sure how to start this post. 😂 This month has been crazy! We are in the middle of a global pandemic, that has completely changed most of our lifestyles and day-to-day but I'm still trying to remain has focused and goal-oriented as ever. I feel like during times such as what we are going through in the present is when the goals and routines established will truly show through. What I mean by that, is you can really track your progression and consistency when you are forced to to change up your lifestyle. Have you been able to accommodate your daily routine? Have you had to change things? For me personally, I haven't had to change much other than not venturing out to do things. Let's look at progress for this month:
1. Build a sustainable business.
Here are 5 of the 10 goals I have set for myself this year:
1. Build a sustainable business
2. Train for and complete a half marathon
3. Drink 1/2 my body weight in water (in ounces) a day
4. Do one thing a month outside my comfort zone
5. Workout 6 times a week
1. Build a sustainable business.
- Positives & Successes: The content we are creating is amazing! I love creating content, writing, and sharing what I know. It's largely, why I have this blog. My wedding blog is much similar and it's really fun sharing content on all outlets and seeing positive response.
- Challenges: Covid-19 is for certain a challenge most businesses are facing. Couples are having to postpone their weddings and currently, not many people are making large financial decisions (for good reason), thus - it has significantly halted growth. We haven't had a lead come through in weeks however, we know that if we continue outputting content like we are things will grow, in due time.
2. Train for and complete a half marathon.
- Positives & Successes: I officially have my half-marathon tickets and had the best weekend of running thus far, 5 miles on Friday and 8 miles on Saturday! 8 is the most we have ever done and it felt so good! 👏🏻 Currently, we are going for mileage. Once we have that down I will stick to more of a consistent training schedule where we are tracking pace and timing.
- Challenges: None!
3. Drink 1/2 my body weight in water (in ounces) a day.
- Positives & Success: I completed this probably 85% of the month.
- Challenges: Didn't complete this 15% of the month. I need to keep incorporating lemon juice in my water because it helps me down it.
5. Workout 6x a week.
- Positives & Successes: I'm continuing to workout and have really tried this month to incorporate different workouts and movements. I 100% feel stronger and more toned than I ever have. I'm also seeing more results in my midsection, that is one area I will really focus on this next month. For me, getting exercise challenges my body - which I feel makes me more mentally stronger. Especially now, when life is stagnant, this is one thing I have control over. I will continue to move my body and get to where I want to!
- Challenges: Not seeing immediate results is defeating - I totally get this. I going on 7 months of running & combined HIIT workouts and strength training still not necessarily where I want to be (I'm not stopping until I have a defined 6 pack ya'll😂).
*I want to make something clear here - I workout largely to stay sane. It boosts endorphins and I thoroughly enjoy feeling happy, accomplished, and strong. I'm in no way promoting a "tiny" body. I have never wanted to be a size 0 or a certain number on the scale. I have however, wanted to see strength in myself. Toned muscles and strong core - that's what I'm going for. Whatever size you are, you are incredibly beautiful - don't take my workout talk as something you have to do, that's not the purpose. I do this for me and only me. Be whatever YOU want to be and do whatever YOU want to do.
If we are being honest, I can confidently say that this month shook me to my core a bit. It was hard to continue to find the positive and practice gratitude through all the negative things we are dealing with. What I do know however, is when this is all said and done, I don't want to look back at these few months and regret not continuing to better myself, not continue to grow, not continue to establish routine, not continue to set and reach for my goals.
YES. This will be hard. We are all dealing with something so incredibly adverse but does that mean we stop living and stop trying to reach our goals? NO. We have to learn to adapt to this new "lifestyle" we are living. At the end of this, will you be able to look back and be proud of how you handled this situation?
In continuing to choose joy, I wanted this Friday Favorites edition to be positive. So share the light and blessings that are happening right now and not dwelling on all the things that are out of our control.
Wearing my #AustraliaStrong tee my bestie bought me. All proceeds went to the Australia Wildfire Warriors Organization Relief. You can shop the tee here.
1. Australia Wildfires Declared Clear : Remember a month ago when the world came together over the tumultuous wildfires in Australia? They have been declared clear! Foliage and greenery is starting to sprout in forests across the country. I would also like to note that my Koala, Jimmy Jams, is doing great! I received my official adoption certificate last week. ❤️
2. Air Pollution Reduced : Air pollution and the presence of NO2 gas has been significantly reduced with the universal lockdowns being instituted. Does this mean that overtime it will all be reduced? NO. What this does mean however is that the entire world has conducted a large-scale experiment for us to actually see viable results in the reduction of NO2 gas from a reduction in usage of pollution-causing vehicles, manufacturing plants, etc. For now, since we are lockdown and can only go outside for exercise the air quality is up, that's a positive in my book and makes being outside much more enjoyable! 👏🏻
3. Sewing Masks : People from all over the globe are sewing masks! 😷 Is this going to solve the shortage? No. What it is doing is cultivating an incredible sense of community and offering relief to hospital workers around the nation for fear they do not have the proper PPE equipment. Fashion designer's teams, major brands, companies donating funds, small community sewers, etc., all are taking part in doing their part for the community.
We have so much hate in the world. It might've taken a global pandemic, but I think it's incredible how this has brought everyone together despite their gender, ethnicity, race, age, etc. That is something to be so proud of! 💕
4. Time : Time is a valuable thing. Although we are dealing with a crisis and this is not to discredit the severity of the situation. Most people have been gifted with some time. Time at home, to cultivate relationships with their family, to do all those things you've always wanted to do, just never had the time. I'm hopeful that from this, we can all learn not to take time for granted as who would've thought we would be dealing with a global pandemic? Write that book, book that trip, start that business, start a savings plan or new budget, commit to becoming healthier, spend valuable time with your family - whatever it is, just do it!
5. Small Accomplishments : I think one thing we all need to start appreciating is everything we accomplish in a day - those are small feats that add up to be one larger feat! Did you meal prep? Finish a project at work? Get 30 minus of exercise? Clean or organize something that's been on the list for a long time? Give yourself a pat on the back! We are all doing the best we can do at this point, be kind to yourself just as you are for others.
Raise your hand if you love yoga pants?!🙋🏼♀️ I do as well, in fact, I wear them everyday, twice a day. My dog is very accustomed to being walked and run daily. Just as well, I workout about 6x a week. I've tried many different brands and while, I could share with you all the cheapest versions, I'm not going to because as I mentioned, I wear workout pants twice a day. For me, the quality has to be impeccable, I will wear each pair until I simply cannot wear them anymore (RIP Lululemon align pant with the hole in the toosh). I am however, sharing a variety at all price points and they are rated by certain specifications:
1. Quality/Durability
2. Fit/Sizing
3. Pockets
4. Movement
5. Best for: Type of Workout
I am comparing 5 brands: Lululemon, IVL Collective, Athleta, Fabletics, and Champion. I want to state that I have tried Nike, Under Armor, Gap Active, and Old Navy Active and I didn't love them enough to purchase again OR I wore them out and got rid of them for good. Below you will find my rankings, starting with the overall favorites!
- Quality/Durability: I love the quality of these Fabletics leggings. They are the thickest pair of leggings I own and they have held up wonderfully being washed weekly. (Tip: I hang dry this pair to avoid shrinking.) I've had this pair for about 2 months and no pilling or stretching!
- Fit/Sizing: TTS - Wearing size small. No over-stretching from wear to wear. Very high-waisted.
- Pockets: Yes! Two mesh pockets on either side. I can fit my house key and doggie bags in one and phone in the other.
- Movement: These do not fall down when running or doing HIIT workouts!
- Best For: Running, HIIT workouts, gym workouts, cycling, yoga, walks.
- Recommend: 100% yes
Price: 2 for $24, so technically $12! 😱
- Quality/Durability: These leggings are made of a nylon fabric which is sweat wicking and dries fast. Thinner than the Fabletics pair, these are very comfortable and you can easily wear all day long. They have held up after at least 30-40 washes.
- Fit/Sizing: TTS - Wearing size small. No over-stretching from wear to wear. Very high-waisted.
- Pockets: Yes! Two pockets on either side. I can fit my key and doggie bags in one and phone in the other.
- Movement: These do not fall down when running or doing HIIT workouts!
- Best For: Running, HIIT workouts, gym workouts, cycling, yoga, walks.
- Recommend: 100% yes
Price: $89.00 for original style
- Quality/Durability: These leggings truly feel like butter - the fabric is much different than all other pairs of leggings I own. IVL Collective uses a Hydrasculpt Collagen fabric that moisturizes your skin, provides wicking & deodorizing, and UV-protection. They don't stretch after multiple wears and keep their shape. Thick fabric so not see through!
- Fit/Sizing: Similar to Lululemon sizing but runs large - Size down from sizing guide recommendations. No over-stretching from wear to wear. Ultra high-waisted - the most high-waisted pair I own. Example, I typically buy a 6 from Lulu, these are a 4.
- Pockets: No pockets on this pair, this the 1/2 point deduction. I do however, recommend the IVL Collective Everyday Legging that has a zipper pocket in the back.
- Movement: These do not fall down when running or doing HIIT workouts!
- Best For: Running, HIIT workouts, gym workouts, cycling, yoga, walks.
- Recommend: Absolutely!
Price: $96.00 - this pair is sold out, I recommend the Everyday Legging for $92.00.
- Quality/Durability: The quality of these leggings is great. The fabric is polyester, not nylon like the other pair of Athleta leggings reviewed. These are more sweat wicking in my opinion. I do find that they stretch more with wear unlike the other pairs.
- Fit/Sizing: TTS - Wearing size small. I bought these last year and have since lost inches around my waist so would purchase XS instead as they run a bit big on me now.
- Pockets: Yes! Pockets on each side and zipper pocket in the back.
- Movement: These leggings fall down unfortunately when I run. I love the pockets but I notice that this type of fabric does not hold as well to your body.
- Best For: Gym workouts, cycling, yoga, walking
- Recommend: Do not recommend for running but I wear them for everything else and love them!
Price: $89.00
- Quality/Durability: The quality of these leggings is great. The fabric is a mixture of nylon and lycra. Lycra specifically for stretch and shape retention.
- Fit/Sizing: TTS - Wearing size 6 (Lululemon runs at a larger size than your normal pant size). I bought these last year and have since lost inches around my waist. so I would purchase a 4 instead. If you are in between sizes, I recommend sizing down.
- Pockets: Yes! Pockets on each side and slip pocket in the back.
- Movement: These leggings fall down unfortunately when I run. I love the pockets but especially when I have my phone in the pocket they really fall down. They are made for running and training but I think they are better suited for training or HIIT workouts than running.
- Best For: Gym/Training workouts, cycling, yoga, walking
- Recommend: Do not recommend for running but I wear them for everything else and love them!
Price: $118.00
- Quality/Durability: I do not love the quality of these leggings. They don't hold their shape like my other pairs - they are also prone to a lot of piling. Slightly see-through with squat test and give you major camel-toe! 🙈
- Fit/Sizing: TTS - Wearing size small.
- Pockets: Yes! One zip pocket in the back.
- Movement: I have only worn these for yoga and a cycling class. They are not as high-waisted so honestly, I didn't love wearing them either time.
- Best For: Yoga or walking, low-key activities.
- Recommend: No - might as well spend the same and purchase from Fabletics for better quality.
Price: $32.00
Now, more than ever, relationships matter most. Never in my wildest dreams did I think a global pandemic would bring us to where we are now, but here we are - isolated. I've been single for over a year now and I took that year to cultivate some of the best relationships I have ever had. Relationships with friends and family that in my opinion, are everlasting. I will say however, going through quarantine without a partner, is incredibly lonely and defeating.
I'm the type of person that longs for human connection. While I'm very independent, I rely heavily on communication with others and love the quality time spent. Relationships that are meaningful and deep, do not come easy. Relationships are work; think of growing and cultivating a garden. You have to water the plants, remove the weeds, prevent the bad bugs, fertilize, and maintain. I'm in no way saying I'm perfect at relationships, I have however, found the key aspects to cultivating a successful relationship.
Check on your people. | We all get busy, and we all use that as an excuse to not check-in or follow-up. I'm going to shed some light on this, it's not a valid excuse. You are prioritizing everything before the relationships in your life. I 100% love to work and would choose work over most things on a day-to-day but I realized last year that the five free minutes I had or the long drive that I had during the day that I needed to utilize those moments to check in on my people. The more I talked to those in my life, the closer we became. I prioritized them and my relationship with them, even when I was incredibly busy. I also knew that there would be times when that simply wasn't going to work. Take for example if you travel for work. Traveling for work is exhausting and the average person puts in at least 12-15 hour days. I always made it a point to let "my people" know I was traveling and would be disconnected for a few days.
When you find yourself thinking of someone, send them a message. | This is something super easy that will help cultivate your relationships. Throughout the day, if I find myself thinking of someone (sister, bestie, friend far away, etc.) send them a message! I will even just send a "Miss you friend!" Something so simple can make their day but it also keeps you connected.
Give to the relationship. | Relationships require sacrifice - you have to give something to them. Just as you give your time and effort to cultivate and grow a garden, this requires the same. What value can you add to a relationship? If a friend or family-member ever asks for help or if I can do something, I will always do whatever I can to do so. That may just be the giving nature in me but I feel fulfilled in the relationship knowing I contributed. Whether that be in advice, in help with kids, or resume writing or design help, etc.
Realize that you are in a different season than others, acknowledge the differences. | Every single person in my life is in a different season. They are single, engaged, married, married with children, divorced, etc. They are employed, in school, starting a business, chasing after a dream, living paycheck-paycheck. We are all in very different situations. With that being said, it's important to be considerate to those differences and acknowledge that being different is OK. For example, the weekends for me, are the worst. It's more time by myself which I do not love. For my married or engaged friends or those with kids, that is their family time and are typically busy when I have ample amount of time to talk. This does not mean we are any less friends, we are in different seasons and have to be cognizant to the differences that set us apart.
Ask, Create & Challenge. | In my opinion, the relationships that result in the longest relationships are those where you ask questions, create experiences, and you challenge them. Always asking, "How are you really doing today?" Pushing them to open up and to talk to you on a deeper level. Creating experiences with one another, traveling, trying a new workout class, or spending quality time. And finally, challenging them to be better, take risks, go outside of their comfort zone, and to understand their worth.
Be Excited. | Most of my friends and family will undoubtedly say when they have something positive or happy in their life, I freak out. Screaming, jumping, yelling, using a thousand exclamation points - that's me. Why? Because it's coming from a place of pure joy and happiness for them and they deserve nothing less than someone celebrating their joys with them.
I'm the type of person that longs for human connection. While I'm very independent, I rely heavily on communication with others and love the quality time spent. Relationships that are meaningful and deep, do not come easy. Relationships are work; think of growing and cultivating a garden. You have to water the plants, remove the weeds, prevent the bad bugs, fertilize, and maintain. I'm in no way saying I'm perfect at relationships, I have however, found the key aspects to cultivating a successful relationship.
When you find yourself thinking of someone, send them a message. | This is something super easy that will help cultivate your relationships. Throughout the day, if I find myself thinking of someone (sister, bestie, friend far away, etc.) send them a message! I will even just send a "Miss you friend!" Something so simple can make their day but it also keeps you connected.
Give to the relationship. | Relationships require sacrifice - you have to give something to them. Just as you give your time and effort to cultivate and grow a garden, this requires the same. What value can you add to a relationship? If a friend or family-member ever asks for help or if I can do something, I will always do whatever I can to do so. That may just be the giving nature in me but I feel fulfilled in the relationship knowing I contributed. Whether that be in advice, in help with kids, or resume writing or design help, etc.
Realize that you are in a different season than others, acknowledge the differences. | Every single person in my life is in a different season. They are single, engaged, married, married with children, divorced, etc. They are employed, in school, starting a business, chasing after a dream, living paycheck-paycheck. We are all in very different situations. With that being said, it's important to be considerate to those differences and acknowledge that being different is OK. For example, the weekends for me, are the worst. It's more time by myself which I do not love. For my married or engaged friends or those with kids, that is their family time and are typically busy when I have ample amount of time to talk. This does not mean we are any less friends, we are in different seasons and have to be cognizant to the differences that set us apart.
Ask, Create & Challenge. | In my opinion, the relationships that result in the longest relationships are those where you ask questions, create experiences, and you challenge them. Always asking, "How are you really doing today?" Pushing them to open up and to talk to you on a deeper level. Creating experiences with one another, traveling, trying a new workout class, or spending quality time. And finally, challenging them to be better, take risks, go outside of their comfort zone, and to understand their worth.
Be Excited. | Most of my friends and family will undoubtedly say when they have something positive or happy in their life, I freak out. Screaming, jumping, yelling, using a thousand exclamation points - that's me. Why? Because it's coming from a place of pure joy and happiness for them and they deserve nothing less than someone celebrating their joys with them.
I spent the weekend cleaning and purging. What else is there to do during this quarantine? I didn't realize how much I had that I (1) hadn't worn in at least a year and (2) didn't fit right and (3) was only worn 1-2 times. I decided to sell about 1/2 of what I purged and listed it all on Poshmark, the rest will be donated!
A few things I have been doing for years when organizing my closet:
1. Color Code | I vividly remember color coding my closet at the age of 11, before Marie Kondo was a huge hit, I was implementing her strategies before they were a thing. I loved my closet when I was younger; I always wanted to showcase my beautiful clothes (mostly from the Mary-Kate & Ashley line at Wal-Mart😂). To this day, I still believe it to be the easiest system. We don't always know what we want to wear, but typically, we know what color or style we are looking for. It's easy for me to find every piece I own
2. Organizers For Accessories | The Container Store = an organizer's version of heaven. One of the biggest pieces of advice I can give is to have storage available so you can organize everything. Belts, bags, hats, jewelry, etc., it should all be nicely organized in some sort of container. I found most of my storage pieces at The Container Store, you can also find more inexpensive tubs or bins at Wal-Mart or Target!
3. Rotate Seasons | Something I have also done since I was little, I believe I learned it from my mother as she would store her sweaters at the end of winter season and I would just follow suit. In my opinion, there is no reason to have your winter attire mixed in with the rest of the seasons, say for example it's July. You are most likely reaching for a tank-top/tee/blouse - not a sweater. It will save space and again, keep things more organized. I store my winter clothes, once fall comes around I pull the winter clothes out and rotate the bin and store my summer attire.
Another tip: when I store my winter or summer clothes, I always sort through them and decide to keep or donate. Did I wear this sweater at all? How about this coat? If it's been over a year since I wore something, it goes.
Another tip: when I store my winter or summer clothes, I always sort through them and decide to keep or donate. Did I wear this sweater at all? How about this coat? If it's been over a year since I wore something, it goes.
4. Fold All Sweaters & Sweatshirts | I hate hanger marks on tops; the hangers I use are typically really good and don't leave the top stretched at the shoulders. However, I always fold delicate and bulky sweaters just in case. I also fold sweatshirts as I find they take up a lot more hanging space!
Most of us are going on official lockdown, if not already. Thankfully we are still able to go outside and move our bodies. I know for some, that's not the first choice as you prefer a gym so I rounded up my favorite workout gurus/apps to help get you through quarantine!
My biggest advice for you during this time: move your body and get outside. For your own darn sanity - you HAVE to get fresh air and those endorphins will boost your mood and keep you uplifted. This is a trying time for all, let's work it out together!
Tone It Up - Two of my favorite gals, Karena & Kat, founders of Tone It Up, are doing Live 30 minute Instagram workouts! I've attached the schedule below, just go make sure you are following the corresponding Instagram account and have notifications turned on so you are notified when it starts. Also, they made their Tone It Up app free for the next 30 days for new members!
Pelaton - 90-day Free Trial! My bestie from 'Behind The Chaos' let me know they have a bunch of different workouts, not just woke or running related. Score!
FitwithASD - Grace White, she is not just a babe but ultimate GOALS. She has a program, FitwithASD where she shares her daily burn workout, recipes, and all kinds of workout tips/tricks. You can subscribe for $8.99/month.
High Fitness - 45 Minute Workout on Youtube. I have always wanted to go to a high fitness class, there are unfortunately none where I live. You can complete a workout class from their YouTube channel. SO MUCH FUN
BBG - Bikini Body Guide by Kayla Itsines. I've done BBG before and loved it. I've learned so much from Kayla that I can typically do a session by myself without having to reference anything at this point. 0.66 cents a day and all the workouts you can do from home!
Favorite Instagram For Quick Tutorials: Cara Loren I always reference and save her Instagram videos of workouts and reference them. It's really good to add in new moves/work new muscle groups and she is great at switching it up. Plus she is #momgoals all the way!
Here are the items I use for at-home workouts. Most of the following is on sale as well:
My biggest advice for you during this time: move your body and get outside. For your own darn sanity - you HAVE to get fresh air and those endorphins will boost your mood and keep you uplifted. This is a trying time for all, let's work it out together!
Pelaton - 90-day Free Trial! My bestie from 'Behind The Chaos' let me know they have a bunch of different workouts, not just woke or running related. Score!
FitwithASD - Grace White, she is not just a babe but ultimate GOALS. She has a program, FitwithASD where she shares her daily burn workout, recipes, and all kinds of workout tips/tricks. You can subscribe for $8.99/month.
High Fitness - 45 Minute Workout on Youtube. I have always wanted to go to a high fitness class, there are unfortunately none where I live. You can complete a workout class from their YouTube channel. SO MUCH FUN
BBG - Bikini Body Guide by Kayla Itsines. I've done BBG before and loved it. I've learned so much from Kayla that I can typically do a session by myself without having to reference anything at this point. 0.66 cents a day and all the workouts you can do from home!
Favorite Instagram For Quick Tutorials: Cara Loren I always reference and save her Instagram videos of workouts and reference them. It's really good to add in new moves/work new muscle groups and she is great at switching it up. Plus she is #momgoals all the way!
Here are the items I use for at-home workouts. Most of the following is on sale as well:
Routine. Something I live for. Every morning after I walk or run Keetna, I come home and make my coffee first. My Christmas gift last year was a De'Longhi Nespresso Lattissima Touch Espresso Maker. I was getting Starbucks multiple times a week, okay, more like everyday and financially that was just not smart. I didn't just want any coffee maker though as I'm picky when it comes to a nice creamy latte, thus, where the Nespresso machine came in. I filmed a quick IGTV on how to use my Nespresso. I added the video below for you to watch too!
Signs of spring are turning up! The cherry blossom trees are starting to bloom and magnolia trees budding. Although I could do without the consistent and dreary days of rain - there's no flowers without rain! I can't help but still reach for bright and vibrant pieces in my wardrobe, especially with all that's going on now. This lavender blouse is an over-sized almost baby-doll top and super comfortable. I picked it up a few weeks ago at the Red Dress Boutique - they have adorable (and affordable) spring pieces right now.
1. Be The Light
- In light of all the recent world events/cancellations/disruptions/chaos, Rachel Hollis reminded everyone on her Morning Show to "Be The Light." It's during these times where we feel darkness and it almost consumes us. These are the times, more than ever, where we need to continue to do good int he world and shed light on all the positive things. Trust our Faith and be uplifting - just from afar. Together, we can get through anything.
2. Welcome Back Mandy Moore - New CD
-Mandy Moore's new CD launched and ya'll, her revival is everything. A few of my favorites on her CD titled "Silver Landings" are as follows: Save A Little For Yourself, Tryin' My Best Los Angeles, When I Wasn't Watching, and Forgiveness. These are definitely songs that bring me back to Hermosa Beach summers, biking along the ocean side - I'm obsessed!
3. Dave Hollis "Get Out Of Your Own Way"
- I haven't started this book yet, it released this week and my pre-order was delivered, as I'm finishing another one but I'm super excited to start this weekend. I can truly say that the Hollis duo never ceases to disappoint - I will report back in with my thoughts but if you are looking to pick up your next book, I recommend you try this one!
4. Self-Care
- With the tumultuous events happening and a "self-distancing" alert going on I think this is the perfect time for us all to invest in self-care. The large event cancellations, sports cancelled, concerts, etc., you may be thinking "what the heck am I going to do?!" Once I got wind of the news, I bought two more books, replaced my snapped booty band, and bought my favorite treat so I could post up this week and next - to take care of me! Exercising, reading, at-home spa days, online shopping (shop small especially now!), meditation, prayer, working from home, spending curated time with your children, etc., all of these things are a greta way to practice self-care during this time.
5. Favorite Exercise Bands
- I snapped my booty band last week🤦🏼♀️😂. I was doing side, leg-lifts, you know, to work those inner thighs girl! Well, I raised my leg and SNAP the band flew across the room. I had it for awhile and think I honestly wore it out. I replaced it with one of my favorites - the Tone It Up "Peachy" Band you can buy at your local Target!
- In light of all the recent world events/cancellations/disruptions/chaos, Rachel Hollis reminded everyone on her Morning Show to "Be The Light." It's during these times where we feel darkness and it almost consumes us. These are the times, more than ever, where we need to continue to do good int he world and shed light on all the positive things. Trust our Faith and be uplifting - just from afar. Together, we can get through anything.
-Mandy Moore's new CD launched and ya'll, her revival is everything. A few of my favorites on her CD titled "Silver Landings" are as follows: Save A Little For Yourself, Tryin' My Best Los Angeles, When I Wasn't Watching, and Forgiveness. These are definitely songs that bring me back to Hermosa Beach summers, biking along the ocean side - I'm obsessed!
3. Dave Hollis "Get Out Of Your Own Way"
- I haven't started this book yet, it released this week and my pre-order was delivered, as I'm finishing another one but I'm super excited to start this weekend. I can truly say that the Hollis duo never ceases to disappoint - I will report back in with my thoughts but if you are looking to pick up your next book, I recommend you try this one!
4. Self-Care
- With the tumultuous events happening and a "self-distancing" alert going on I think this is the perfect time for us all to invest in self-care. The large event cancellations, sports cancelled, concerts, etc., you may be thinking "what the heck am I going to do?!" Once I got wind of the news, I bought two more books, replaced my snapped booty band, and bought my favorite treat so I could post up this week and next - to take care of me! Exercising, reading, at-home spa days, online shopping (shop small especially now!), meditation, prayer, working from home, spending curated time with your children, etc., all of these things are a greta way to practice self-care during this time.
5. Favorite Exercise Bands
- I snapped my booty band last week🤦🏼♀️😂. I was doing side, leg-lifts, you know, to work those inner thighs girl! Well, I raised my leg and SNAP the band flew across the room. I had it for awhile and think I honestly wore it out. I replaced it with one of my favorites - the Tone It Up "Peachy" Band you can buy at your local Target!
Running errands, weekend wear, workday at home - whatever it may be, this casual outfit is perfect and typically what I reach for when I want something simple and low-key, but still cute! This mineral-washed fabric is super cute and I obviously gravitated towards the pink but they have a sea green color that I'm obsessed with. I paired it with my Loft denim with frayed hems and favorite white sneakers. What's your favorite spring casual look?
I typically wear my hair air-dryed OR I will curl it one of two ways: traditional spiral or wave curled. I typically wear the wave curl more often as I think it adds more volume and is a little more "messy." I shared a video on IGTV showing how I achieve both curls - see the video below!
