I actually enjoy exercise. I love it when I'm doing it, I love it after I do it. It's the starting it that I'm bad at. I plan it. I put it in my calendar like all those fitness magazines suggest, but for some strange reason it doesn't always come to fruition. It seems that getting out the door proves much harder these days with a nine month old.
It's so much easier to make excuses like "It's cold out" "It's too close to nap time," "Wouldn't it be more beneficial to my baby if I stayed home and played with her. On a run she's just sitting in the stroller," or my personal go-to "I'll go when N. gets home from work. It'll be 'me' time." Despite the best intentions it is easy to let excuses get the best of you. Especially if the only one you're making excuses to is yourself.
Well today I got myself out the door to run. Well let's be honest. Jog. Ok, I fibbed again. Jog/walk. Ok, now I feel better. I'm a terrible liar. Anyways, I managed to figure out the jogging stroller, popped the babe in it with a toy or two and out the door we went. I began with the intention of walking, but after a few blocks of sunshine and after climbing the steepest hill in the neighborhood I decided I would just run a few blocks. Downhill. To get the feel for the stroller and to go easy on myself. So I did.
And you know what? I wanted to keep going. And I did. Until I was breathless and tired. I stopped and resumed a few blocks later. We even took a mini break for the swings at the toddler park. Feeling proud of myself and healthy I decided to run the rest of the way home if I could.
I ran most of it saying to myself "Just get to the end of this block." And with each block I said "I'm not that tired, I can keep going." Towards the end it was a struggle and I used the last block and a half home as my (walking) cool-down. But I arrived home feeling pretty accomplished. And wiped. Really wiped. I plopped the baby on the floor to play and I collapsed next to her breathing heavily, red-faced and sweaty. The look she gave me could only have been "Mom, are you okay???" I laughed and realized I should've eaten a healthier, more plentiful breakfast and drank way more water. And those slutty brownies for dessert last night probably didn't help much either! (If you haven't heard of these yet, you are seriously missing out on an ooey gooey, so-sweet-you-can-barely-stand-it, absolutely decadent dessert)
I wish it could be this easy all the time. I am not, by nature, a runner. Or a jogger for that matter. I don't really find it all that enjoyable. It's the being outside part that I like. It's the not being able to breathe, aching legs, and the looking like a tomato that I could do without. I've only done one 5K in my life and it was the best shape I was probably ever in. I want to be one of those people who walks out into the beautiful sunshine and effortlessly goes for a 5 or 6 mile run. A workout for which you need no gym, instruction or equipment. Time to get your mood boosted, or at least that's how I feel after having spent time outdoors. I know in order to get to be the 5 or 6 miler I need to lose the perfectionism and exercise patience (hehe exercise, get it?) for once. I think it's probably time to reconcile my love hate relationship with running.
I have 34 days until my best friend's wedding (which is at the beach btw). I'm hoping to lose the last seven to ten pounds (depending on the day) of baby weight during this time. My goal isn't a certain distance or a certain amount of days (although 30 out of 34 would be nice...Ok, I'm supposed to lose the perfectionism for right now). My goal then is to try to run for more days than I don't. I want the amount of runs to outweigh the time spent on the couch or watching tv.
Day one is complete. Rain or cold, sun or wind I'm vowing to do this. But for now, let's just start with tomorrow. Wish me luck!
------------------------------------
(And for those of you wondering, I don't diet. I tried and I can't - no self control. I regulate portions, don't restrict what I eat, and I try to be active. If I go crazy and eat five donuts in a day (I totally did this a few months ago) who cares? I'll make up for it the next day and eat healthy and try to move a little more. If it takes a little longer to lose the weight it's ok because I'm not in any danger health-wise, like having to lose weight for a specific reason like heart disease or diabetes. I'm doing it so I feel comfortable in my own skin - and clothes.)
How do you all feel about running? Anyone else love-hate it?
Monday, April 8, 2013
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Bathing Suits A-Plenty!
The warmth of the sun kisses your face, you breathe in warm clean air (depending on where you live, LA you can pretend), birds chirp as a sultry breeze wafts over you. Welcome to summer.
It is on its way. Are you ready? Mentally, you are. Even your wardrobe might be ready. However, many women overlook their bathing suit stockpiles, wearing the same few suits over and over. And over again.
I have a bathing suit problem. Although it is not quite what you'd expect. I own close to 30 bathing suits. I am truly a beach baby and over the years have managed to collect a ton of suits. In my eyes this is no more a problem than having a ton of money. That is to say, it's not a problem - unless of course you ask my husband. I thankfully haven't grown in size much over the years so I still fit in that cute O'Neill suit from college. And my Burberry suit that I splurged on. Oh and the VS one with the heart cutout that you need to be really tan to wear and whose metal heart shaped cutout digs into your back as you sun, but worth every wear. This poses a problem though when trying to convince others, namely my husband, that I need another suit. Luckily, the man above must've seen my dilemma and sent me a solution.
I entered South Moon Under's Sink or Swim Instant Win contest on Facebook.
And guess what? I won!! I've never won anything in my life so I was super excited. Not to mention that it was a prize as good as gold in my book! I was able to choose from a bunch of suits and it was mailed to my door - for free. What a company. Thank you South Moon Under!! I chose this little Trina Turk number. Isn't she gorg??
.jpg)
LOVE! South Moon Under even sent a 'wet bathing suit' bag by Raisins (who make adorable suits btw - very SoCal). And it was all wrapped so nicely. What can be better than that?!
So this got me thinking. Most people, women especially, dread bathing suit season, bathing suit shopping, and some even dread bathing suit wearing! So sad. There's a world of suits out there to be had and they're waiting for you! I'm here to help. After all my years of bathing suit shopping, trying on, and ahem, buying, this is my guide to bathing suit shopping for all body types.
General Rules
{Buy a suit that fits.} Even if that means choosing different sizes for the top and bottom. Or even if that means going up (or down) from your normal size. A suit that's too large will hang and droop once wet, or can even be lost (!) in the ocean waves. A suit that's too small will cut into your sides making you appear larger than you actually are. I'm terrified of the latter so I tend to buy bottoms that are too large and am left hanging on to my suit for dear life with each successive ocean wave.
{Get a tan.} Tans instantly make you appear trimmer. I recommend a faux glow just to be safe. Sunspots are not pretty ladies and gents. Trust me, I learned the hard way. Womp womp.
Victoria's Secret has a great tanning line (not to mention amazing suits). I prefer the Instant Bronzing Spray ($15) - spray it on and you have color immediately. You control how light or how dark it is and you see it right away so as you rush out to the beach you can give yourself a spritz.
Whether you are getting a faux glow in a salon or diy, feel free to contour yourself. Get extra tanning solution sprayed around your abs and on the outside and inside of your thighs. You are creating the illusion of abs and teeny weeny legs. This will make it seem as if you have been working in the gym for months - without the sweat or hard work.
{Know your body}.
{Large Chested}
You want to look like this...
perky, pushed up, and scintillating - the correct way to wear a bandeau...
But you wind up looking like this....
Fail.
The difference between these two pictures is NOT the model or the size thereof. It is NOT that one suit is a bikini and one is a tankini. The difference lies in that the bottom picture clearly depicts a natural woman (not photoshopped) whose chest naturally droops.
This bandeau becomes un-flattering as her chest sinks and flattens. The ruffle and pattern only draw attention to this. This type of suit is best left to the small-chested and the silicone chested.
The same goes for most triangle tops. You need support. And it's okay. There are still cute options, don't fear.
The fix - Choose a halter or push up top with not too deep of a V and a lot of support.
LOVE this suit! Underwire for maximum support, large band around the chest and back, and straps to keep everything perky and in place.
It is on its way. Are you ready? Mentally, you are. Even your wardrobe might be ready. However, many women overlook their bathing suit stockpiles, wearing the same few suits over and over. And over again.
I have a bathing suit problem. Although it is not quite what you'd expect. I own close to 30 bathing suits. I am truly a beach baby and over the years have managed to collect a ton of suits. In my eyes this is no more a problem than having a ton of money. That is to say, it's not a problem - unless of course you ask my husband. I thankfully haven't grown in size much over the years so I still fit in that cute O'Neill suit from college. And my Burberry suit that I splurged on. Oh and the VS one with the heart cutout that you need to be really tan to wear and whose metal heart shaped cutout digs into your back as you sun, but worth every wear. This poses a problem though when trying to convince others, namely my husband, that I need another suit. Luckily, the man above must've seen my dilemma and sent me a solution.
I entered South Moon Under's Sink or Swim Instant Win contest on Facebook.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.southmoonunder.blogspot.com |
And guess what? I won!! I've never won anything in my life so I was super excited. Not to mention that it was a prize as good as gold in my book! I was able to choose from a bunch of suits and it was mailed to my door - for free. What a company. Thank you South Moon Under!! I chose this little Trina Turk number. Isn't she gorg??
.jpg)
LOVE! South Moon Under even sent a 'wet bathing suit' bag by Raisins (who make adorable suits btw - very SoCal). And it was all wrapped so nicely. What can be better than that?!
So this got me thinking. Most people, women especially, dread bathing suit season, bathing suit shopping, and some even dread bathing suit wearing! So sad. There's a world of suits out there to be had and they're waiting for you! I'm here to help. After all my years of bathing suit shopping, trying on, and ahem, buying, this is my guide to bathing suit shopping for all body types.
General Rules
{Buy a suit that fits.} Even if that means choosing different sizes for the top and bottom. Or even if that means going up (or down) from your normal size. A suit that's too large will hang and droop once wet, or can even be lost (!) in the ocean waves. A suit that's too small will cut into your sides making you appear larger than you actually are. I'm terrified of the latter so I tend to buy bottoms that are too large and am left hanging on to my suit for dear life with each successive ocean wave.
{Get a tan.} Tans instantly make you appear trimmer. I recommend a faux glow just to be safe. Sunspots are not pretty ladies and gents. Trust me, I learned the hard way. Womp womp.
Victoria's Secret has a great tanning line (not to mention amazing suits). I prefer the Instant Bronzing Spray ($15) - spray it on and you have color immediately. You control how light or how dark it is and you see it right away so as you rush out to the beach you can give yourself a spritz.
 |
| Photo courtesy of ww.victoriassecret.com |
Whether you are getting a faux glow in a salon or diy, feel free to contour yourself. Get extra tanning solution sprayed around your abs and on the outside and inside of your thighs. You are creating the illusion of abs and teeny weeny legs. This will make it seem as if you have been working in the gym for months - without the sweat or hard work.
{Know your body}.
{Large Chested}
You want to look like this...
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.victoriassecret.com |
But you wind up looking like this....
 |
| Email me for the source, I don't want to embarrass anyone on the internet! |
The difference between these two pictures is NOT the model or the size thereof. It is NOT that one suit is a bikini and one is a tankini. The difference lies in that the bottom picture clearly depicts a natural woman (not photoshopped) whose chest naturally droops.
This bandeau becomes un-flattering as her chest sinks and flattens. The ruffle and pattern only draw attention to this. This type of suit is best left to the small-chested and the silicone chested.
The same goes for most triangle tops. You need support. And it's okay. There are still cute options, don't fear.
The fix - Choose a halter or push up top with not too deep of a V and a lot of support.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.leonisa.com |
Support, solid color, halter = FLATTERING
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.DHgate.com |
LOVE this suit! Underwire for maximum support, large band around the chest and back, and straps to keep everything perky and in place.
My friends with large chests often feel as though they only have ugly suits from which to choose, but I think these last two are quite stylish no? (If you prefer a tankini, keep the same rules)
{Small Chested}
Many people think it's easy for these girls to choose a suit and in some respects, I agree. BUT, there are things small chested girls should be wary of. For example, suits with strings that come up from the middle only serve to sag your chest in an outward, downward shape, while flattening at the same time. Take a look....
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.butterfliesandbikinis.com |
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.swimwearexpress.com |
If they're already small do you really need them to look saggy too? I think not.
I think halters and tops with underwire are great for smaller chested girls. Halters and underwires pull up, creating much needed volume. Bandeaus tend to flatten you out and that is really the opposite of what you need. (Just a note - bandeaus look best on women with moderate sized chests. Or the models.)
{Big Bottomed}
Whether it be your booty, your hips or both, just remember this rule...
The smaller the bottom, the larger your bottom will look. And the more likely your bottom falls out (sorry for the pun, just had to!).
A great option for you ladies with a lot of junk in the trunk are hipster bottoms or bottoms other than string such as regular bikini bottoms, or hipkinis. Be careful with boy shorts. They can often look saggy if they don't fit properly or at times can appear frumpy and may even make your bottom look larger (no!!!). I think hipkinis, aka hipsters are the most flattering.
{No butt}
Watch for saggy butt in your bikini bottoms. This happens most often in string bottoms. Brazilian or cheeky bottoms are a good option for you. Draw attention to your top half with color, details such as metal, ruffles, or sequins so no one notices your half-butt.
{Love Handles}
Who named these anyway? I don't feel any love toward them or from them. And I most certainly don't want my loved one grabbing me by them as the name suggests! Nothing on my body should be referred to as a 'handle,' or muffin top for that matter, ugh. I don't even like muffins. But nonetheless, many of us have them. What to do?
You're going to think I'm nuts, but buy the suit that fits your HIPS and then alter the rest of the suit to snugly fit your butt. You do it for pants and those cover WAY more of your body. Why not for your bathing suit?
Definitely avoid bottoms that are really low rise and go straight across your hips. This will only serve to emphasize love handles and the infamous 'pooch' by which so many of us are plagued.
{Tummy}
If you're looking to camouflage your midsection tankinis, monokinis, and one-pieces are your best bet. Your situation will determine which type of camoflaging you need.
Tankini - To me these are 'mom suits' (and I refuse to wear one). BUT if these are the suits that make you most comfortable find one in an updated, younger pattern. Colorblocking is always classy and less frumpy. Be sure it fits well. I think the makers of tankinis tend to make the tops unsupported and very low cut to compensate for all the coverage elsewhere. Drives me nuts.
Monokinis - If you are just self-conscious but don't have much of anything to cover up, a monokini is a good choice. These often have cutouts and there's nothing worse than flabby skin seeping out of a cutout bathing suit so be sure to choose one that's flattering.
One-Pieces - Be sure you know your measurements. Despite being 5'2" (and a half!) my torso is quite long. I cannot order petite one-piece swimwear otherwise I look like I'm wearing a bathing suit from 1985 where the leg opening comes halfway up my body and I'm constantly hiking the top part up.
Speaking of the leg opening. Beware. If you have larger thighs a high cut may thin them out, whereas a lower cut that's more straight-across can make them look larger. Also, turn around. If the suit digs into your butt, thus giving you an extra butt outside the suit it's no good, move on! And this is why I don't wear one-pieces.
Too many things to worry about that aren't adjustable in the way I wear it.
{Plus Size}
Unfortunately there aren't many options for you ladies (which is just wrong!) and many companies create these deep plunging necklines (a)assuming all plus size women have large chests - which they most certainly do not and (b) to detract from problem areas such as the midsection or butt.
A plus size women is often already self-conscious about being in a bathing suit, why make a suit that requires her to tug, pull and adjust her top the entire time? Makes me mad.
Jessica London, One Stop Plus, Old Navy and Lands End have some good plus size options.
Here are some suits I love from Jessica London and One Stop Plus.
My personal fav,
Anyway...
-Look for suits that have a higher neckline.
-Ruching is your best friend. Any suit that pulls the material diagonally to one side or vertically will create the illusion of a smaller waist.
-Thick straps help to support you and are in proportion to a larger frame. Skinny straps on a bigger body just make it look, well, bigger.
-Don't feel you need to be plain and just blend into the background. Choose a suit that matches your personality and rock it with confidence.
----------------------------------
*Just Remember* It's all in how you carry yourself. If you need a security blanket, splurge on a fancy cover up and rock that suit proudly.
~And that my friends is worth a glass of champagne!~
I think halters and tops with underwire are great for smaller chested girls. Halters and underwires pull up, creating much needed volume. Bandeaus tend to flatten you out and that is really the opposite of what you need. (Just a note - bandeaus look best on women with moderate sized chests. Or the models.)
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.victoriassecret.com |
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.victoriassecret.com |
{Big Bottomed}
Whether it be your booty, your hips or both, just remember this rule...
The smaller the bottom, the larger your bottom will look. And the more likely your bottom falls out (sorry for the pun, just had to!).
A great option for you ladies with a lot of junk in the trunk are hipster bottoms or bottoms other than string such as regular bikini bottoms, or hipkinis. Be careful with boy shorts. They can often look saggy if they don't fit properly or at times can appear frumpy and may even make your bottom look larger (no!!!). I think hipkinis, aka hipsters are the most flattering.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.victoriassecret.com |
{No butt}
Watch for saggy butt in your bikini bottoms. This happens most often in string bottoms. Brazilian or cheeky bottoms are a good option for you. Draw attention to your top half with color, details such as metal, ruffles, or sequins so no one notices your half-butt.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.google.com |
{Love Handles}
Who named these anyway? I don't feel any love toward them or from them. And I most certainly don't want my loved one grabbing me by them as the name suggests! Nothing on my body should be referred to as a 'handle,' or muffin top for that matter, ugh. I don't even like muffins. But nonetheless, many of us have them. What to do?
You're going to think I'm nuts, but buy the suit that fits your HIPS and then alter the rest of the suit to snugly fit your butt. You do it for pants and those cover WAY more of your body. Why not for your bathing suit?
Definitely avoid bottoms that are really low rise and go straight across your hips. This will only serve to emphasize love handles and the infamous 'pooch' by which so many of us are plagued.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.google.com |
{Tummy}
If you're looking to camouflage your midsection tankinis, monokinis, and one-pieces are your best bet. Your situation will determine which type of camoflaging you need.
Tankini - To me these are 'mom suits' (and I refuse to wear one). BUT if these are the suits that make you most comfortable find one in an updated, younger pattern. Colorblocking is always classy and less frumpy. Be sure it fits well. I think the makers of tankinis tend to make the tops unsupported and very low cut to compensate for all the coverage elsewhere. Drives me nuts.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.nordstrom.com |
Monokinis - If you are just self-conscious but don't have much of anything to cover up, a monokini is a good choice. These often have cutouts and there's nothing worse than flabby skin seeping out of a cutout bathing suit so be sure to choose one that's flattering.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.macys.com |
One-Pieces - Be sure you know your measurements. Despite being 5'2" (and a half!) my torso is quite long. I cannot order petite one-piece swimwear otherwise I look like I'm wearing a bathing suit from 1985 where the leg opening comes halfway up my body and I'm constantly hiking the top part up.
Speaking of the leg opening. Beware. If you have larger thighs a high cut may thin them out, whereas a lower cut that's more straight-across can make them look larger. Also, turn around. If the suit digs into your butt, thus giving you an extra butt outside the suit it's no good, move on! And this is why I don't wear one-pieces.
Too many things to worry about that aren't adjustable in the way I wear it.
{Plus Size}
Unfortunately there aren't many options for you ladies (which is just wrong!) and many companies create these deep plunging necklines (a)assuming all plus size women have large chests - which they most certainly do not and (b) to detract from problem areas such as the midsection or butt.
A plus size women is often already self-conscious about being in a bathing suit, why make a suit that requires her to tug, pull and adjust her top the entire time? Makes me mad.
Jessica London, One Stop Plus, Old Navy and Lands End have some good plus size options.
Here are some suits I love from Jessica London and One Stop Plus.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.jessicalondon.com |
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.jessicalondon.com |
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.onestopplus.com |
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.onestopplus.com |
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.onestopplus.com |
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.onestopplus.com |
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.onestopplus.com |
Anyway...
-Look for suits that have a higher neckline.
-Ruching is your best friend. Any suit that pulls the material diagonally to one side or vertically will create the illusion of a smaller waist.
-Thick straps help to support you and are in proportion to a larger frame. Skinny straps on a bigger body just make it look, well, bigger.
-Don't feel you need to be plain and just blend into the background. Choose a suit that matches your personality and rock it with confidence.
----------------------------------
*Just Remember* It's all in how you carry yourself. If you need a security blanket, splurge on a fancy cover up and rock that suit proudly.
~And that my friends is worth a glass of champagne!~
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Mom Valet!
Guys, I just discovered the coolest mom-tastic-thing ever! Now I know we try to feed our kids healthy, nourishing food. However sometimes the fried goodness calls to you saying, "I'm fast and easy. And delicious..."
If you've ever gone to a fast food restaurant with your kids only to juggle the ordering, carrying the food and wrangling the kids, Chick-Fil-A has your solution. Are you ready? Mom Valet. Yes, you heard that right. What exactly is it you ask? Well loyal readers, read on.
No, the cow doesn't park for you. It's better. You simply place your order in the drive through line (including requests for highchairs, placemats, condiments and sauces), pay, and park. When you enter Chick-Fil-A with those little ones a table is set like a beacon in the night with your name on it, fully set up with food, highchairs, condiments and sauces leaving you to ENJOY a meal with the kiddos.
No chasing kids while trying to order, or balancing the food while restraining the energetic ones trying to get to the play area. No settling the kids only to leave and run back and forth between the condiments, napkins and straws while the kids wreck havoc at the table. Or worse yet, while the kids abandon the table for the play room.
This isn't yet available at all Chick-Fil-As but check your local store for a sign indicating that they participate.
This couldn't be easier and I'm sure competitors will follow suit soon enough (I hope!).
This my friends is worth a glass of champagne....or two. Now if only Chick-Fil-A would serve up some champagne...
If you've ever gone to a fast food restaurant with your kids only to juggle the ordering, carrying the food and wrangling the kids, Chick-Fil-A has your solution. Are you ready? Mom Valet. Yes, you heard that right. What exactly is it you ask? Well loyal readers, read on.
No, the cow doesn't park for you. It's better. You simply place your order in the drive through line (including requests for highchairs, placemats, condiments and sauces), pay, and park. When you enter Chick-Fil-A with those little ones a table is set like a beacon in the night with your name on it, fully set up with food, highchairs, condiments and sauces leaving you to ENJOY a meal with the kiddos.
No chasing kids while trying to order, or balancing the food while restraining the energetic ones trying to get to the play area. No settling the kids only to leave and run back and forth between the condiments, napkins and straws while the kids wreck havoc at the table. Or worse yet, while the kids abandon the table for the play room.
This isn't yet available at all Chick-Fil-As but check your local store for a sign indicating that they participate.
This couldn't be easier and I'm sure competitors will follow suit soon enough (I hope!).
This my friends is worth a glass of champagne....or two. Now if only Chick-Fil-A would serve up some champagne...
Friday, March 1, 2013
Control Yourself, You Have a Budget!
If you're anything like me, I go through shopping phases. Sometimes shopping for clothes is a take it or leave it kind of thing. Sometimes it is addicting consumes me. These enveloping desires to shop would be no problem for the budget of a celeb, but alas I am no celebrity. This is how I balance my love of shopping while still remaining on my set budget.
When the shopping bug bites I find myself perusing the websites of all my favorite stores. I tell myself I'm looking for deals, but it seems every item I come across that I even remotely like gets thrown in my cart.
This is strategy number one - put everything you love in your cart.
Strategy number two - Don't think about your budget. You like it? Throw it in.
Open multiple browser tabs for all your favorite stores. Repeat step one with each of these stores. Throw it in the cart, girl! For me sometimes this will take a few days as I continue to remind myself that I don't really need any of these things and that I am in fact on a budget.
Strategy number three - Now comes the hard part. Leave these items in your cart for a few days (at least three). Yes, three. Every once in a while over the course of these three days review the items in your cart. I guarantee there will be a few that you no longer "need" to have, some that have been removed because others bought them and still others that you just can't seem to justify buying. This narrows down some of your choices.
DAYS...
Strategy number four - Once three {LONG} days have passed, truly examine your budget.
If you determine that you can in fact spend a set amount of money without destroying your finances then you have the even harder task of sorting through all your carts to figure out what items to buy.
Strategy number five - If my budget is $300 I will compare all my carts eliminating those things that may be similar to items I already own or items that do not serve more than one purpose. Can you really wear that black leather dress in summer or for a walk in the park? If you can't pair it with multiple things you already own or if you can't use it for multiple occasions you probably shouldn't buy it. I try to pick a mix of versatile and trendy items. It always makes me =) to own some of the newest trends. I only spend a lot of money on basics and classics. Trendy items are much better bought at a discount as trends come and go with the wind.
Strategy number six- My narrow-down process could take a day or two. Finally when I've picked my items and I'm within my $300 shopping budget, I buy. Almost. First I Google the {name of the store + promo code} to see if there are any discounts or coupons available. I also check the homepage of the store to see if they are listing any promos. Hopefully (!) I find some.
Strategy number six A - BUY!
Just a note for those of you who love the act of shopping in the flesh. You love walking the mall, scanning the window displays, hunting for bargains. A tip you may not know though - go to the website of the mall before you leave. Often the mall website will list which stores are having sales and what those sales are.
I always start my shopping trips at the stores with sales. There's nothing worse after a long day of shopping than finding your item, or a similar one, on sale at another store. Your feet and legs are tired, you're hungry and you're definitely not walking all the way back across the mall to return your full priced item to buy this sale one. Start with the sales and you'll never go wrong!
Happy shopping!
Enjoy your new purchases and be grateful you are within your budget. Your future self will thank you.
~And that my friends, is worth a glass of champagne!~
When the shopping bug bites I find myself perusing the websites of all my favorite stores. I tell myself I'm looking for deals, but it seems every item I come across that I even remotely like gets thrown in my cart.
This is strategy number one - put everything you love in your cart.
Strategy number two - Don't think about your budget. You like it? Throw it in.
Open multiple browser tabs for all your favorite stores. Repeat step one with each of these stores. Throw it in the cart, girl! For me sometimes this will take a few days as I continue to remind myself that I don't really need any of these things and that I am in fact on a budget.
Strategy number three - Now comes the hard part. Leave these items in your cart for a few days (at least three). Yes, three. Every once in a while over the course of these three days review the items in your cart. I guarantee there will be a few that you no longer "need" to have, some that have been removed because others bought them and still others that you just can't seem to justify buying. This narrows down some of your choices.
DAYS...Strategy number four - Once three {LONG} days have passed, truly examine your budget.
- How much money are you
willingable to spend? - Will this set you back in your plan for the future such as savings, retirement, or paying bills?
If you determine that you can in fact spend a set amount of money without destroying your finances then you have the even harder task of sorting through all your carts to figure out what items to buy.
Strategy number five - If my budget is $300 I will compare all my carts eliminating those things that may be similar to items I already own or items that do not serve more than one purpose. Can you really wear that black leather dress in summer or for a walk in the park? If you can't pair it with multiple things you already own or if you can't use it for multiple occasions you probably shouldn't buy it. I try to pick a mix of versatile and trendy items. It always makes me =) to own some of the newest trends. I only spend a lot of money on basics and classics. Trendy items are much better bought at a discount as trends come and go with the wind.
Strategy number six- My narrow-down process could take a day or two. Finally when I've picked my items and I'm within my $300 shopping budget, I buy. Almost. First I Google the {name of the store + promo code} to see if there are any discounts or coupons available. I also check the homepage of the store to see if they are listing any promos. Hopefully (!) I find some.
Strategy number six A - BUY!
Just a note for those of you who love the act of shopping in the flesh. You love walking the mall, scanning the window displays, hunting for bargains. A tip you may not know though - go to the website of the mall before you leave. Often the mall website will list which stores are having sales and what those sales are.
I always start my shopping trips at the stores with sales. There's nothing worse after a long day of shopping than finding your item, or a similar one, on sale at another store. Your feet and legs are tired, you're hungry and you're definitely not walking all the way back across the mall to return your full priced item to buy this sale one. Start with the sales and you'll never go wrong!
 |
| Westfield malls list their sales like this, so easy to scan for deals! |
Happy shopping!
Enjoy your new purchases and be grateful you are within your budget. Your future self will thank you.
~And that my friends, is worth a glass of champagne!~
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
SWAK on a Budget
Valentine's Day is just around the corner and some of us need gift ideas, and fast. In the interest of our budget and the fact that after nine years of being together and almost three years of marriage, my husband and I have run out of good V-Day ideas, we've set a $20 limit. Practical and challenging. VERY challenging.
It sounded like a good idea at the time, but is proving to be quite a bit more difficult than I thought. Finding quality gifts for $20 or less is like finding an affordable Louis Vuitton bag.
I'm not looking for those cheesy gifts websites list (Wait, this is a website. But this is a diamond in the rough!) and the ones magazines list, like say for example, a flask. How original. And habit-forming.
Perhaps some laundry detergent for men? It's all-natural. It's only $10, imagine that.
Or better yet, a spongester. What man wouldn't want a quirky sponge holder?
No, not his speed, huh?
Is this what I have to choose from Internet?!
After much thinking and perusing I've found a bunch of stuff I'd like. That doesn't help me much, now does it?
Gentlemen, here is a list of what to get for your lady (or ladies. Who am I to judge?):
**Side note: Be sure to discuss the budget with your girl beforehand so she's not expecting diamonds and you show up with lip gloss. That would be a Valentines Day catastrophe waiting to happen.**
{Sephora-Pantone Universe Dazzling Lip Gloss} - $12
It shows you care but isn't the type of make up that says "You're ugly, wear make up" or "You're a butter-face" or "You need this." Don't know her shade of choice? No problem. This is a variety pack so you can't go wrong. Lots of shades to choose from depending on the occasion and her mood (and skin tone but that's another lesson for another time.).
{Caboodle White/Black Dot Make up Bag} - $19.50
Girls can always use another one of these. They get dingy pretty fast and I don't know about other girls but I'd much rather buy a new one than attempt to clean my old one. I always get mine as a free gift with my makeup purchase anyway. (Maybe if I owned a designer one my attitude would be different but for now, new is it.). She can use it for travel, everyday or as an extra case for all the make up she probably owns. If you're really smart you'll buy the lip gloss mentioned above and put it IN the make up bag. Or put her existing make up in it all organized and nice.(Now you're thinking! You'll get bonus points for effort if you do this. Add a little note and your set.)
{Movie tix} - ~$10/ea To save some cash go to a matinee or use our student/military/senior discount if applicable. You can buy online at Fandango!
This means you have to take her to the movies and let her choose the flick. Rom-com here you come. If you're super slick you'll snag some candy from the grocery store, slip it in your pocket and break it out in the theater. Remember, we are on a $20 budget here (be warned, in other instances this would be cheap and reprehensible). Again, bonus points for forethought.
{Old Navy Infinity Scarf} - $14
We are all anxious for spring so she just may break out her spring wardrobe before the weather actually warrants doing so. Wouldn't it be nice for her to have a cute scarf to throw on to stay warm as the weather transitions? Every time she puts it on she'll think of you!
{Piperlime Tassel necklace} - $20
Mark my words, these will be all the rage, if not this season then next. She can easily pair this with a dress or a plain tee.
{Earrings} - You have several options here. I've chosen mostly studs because they are versatile and easy to pair with many different outfits. A little sparkle and shine never hurt anyone. (The links to the items are below the images.)
{JCREW Factory Fireball Stud Earring} - $19.50
{Piperlime Round Cabachon Stud Earring} in green/gold. - $16
{South Moon Under Juliet & Company Vintage 'Jour' Post Teardrop Earring} - $19.99
{Piperlime Sabine Cabachon Ring} - $14.97
No. Not that kind. Be sure you don't present this to her in any way that may make her think this is a different kind if ring, if you know what I mean. That will just lead to tears, disappointment and massacre. This is what's called a cocktail ring. To be worn with a cocktail dress ideally, but with the right casual outfit can look fabulous.
{Belle Hop Passport Case from Walmart} - $10.39
If you're not on a budget, plan a trip to go with it! If not then you'd only want to get this for the woman who travels often.
{Tocca Fue de Touch, Candelina in Gardenia} - $20
A beautiful floral scent reminiscent of spring. Draw her a bath after she opens it and leave her alone for a while.
{A bottle of sparkling wine} - Everyone's tastes are different so go with your gut, and of course she should be of legal drinking age. I've linked one of my favs, a Mas Fi Cava Brut NV from Spain.
After much searching I've finally got some decent ideas for the guys. Girls get your pen and paper ready.
FOR HIM
{Passport case} - $17 (on clearance so shop fast!)
Leisure or work travel, this case can be very useful. A place for him to keep his passport and other important documents while he's traveling because I don't know about your guy but mine can't seem to remember where he puts things. We search for his wallet almost every day. Gotta love him.
{ITunes Giftcard} - Who doesn't love some new music, movies, or podcasts?
{Knit Solid Wool Tie} in Red Wine - $15
My husband LOVES these ties and a few years ago I got rid of some while I was "cleaning" and he's never forgiven me. Super soft and easy to clean these are great and come in a variety of colors.
{Bond on Bond Reflections of 50 years of Bond Movies} - $16.97
A badass spy who solves mysteries and always gets the girl - every guy wants to be him and every girl wants to be with him. In this book Roger Moore recounts his days and experiences as Bond, playing Bond and watching Bond. Shaken, not stirred.
{A&F Classic Winter Hat} - $9.90
Keep him warm for these last winter months. I plan to cut off the pom pom because my husband's a little too old to be wearing pom poms.
{jcp Thermal Knit Striped Pullover }- $15
A warm, cozy knit shirt perfect for those cold winter nights. He can roll out of bed and go get bagels on Sunday. It's that stylish.
Got other ideas? Let me know in the comments section.
Good luck shopping, and when you're done, pat yourself on the back for only spending $20.
And that, my friends, is worth a glass of champagne!
It sounded like a good idea at the time, but is proving to be quite a bit more difficult than I thought. Finding quality gifts for $20 or less is like finding an affordable Louis Vuitton bag.
I'm not looking for those cheesy gifts websites list (Wait, this is a website. But this is a diamond in the rough!) and the ones magazines list, like say for example, a flask. How original. And habit-forming.
Perhaps some laundry detergent for men? It's all-natural. It's only $10, imagine that.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.uncommongoods.com |
Or better yet, a spongester. What man wouldn't want a quirky sponge holder?
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.uncommongoods.com |
No, not his speed, huh?
Is this what I have to choose from Internet?!
After much thinking and perusing I've found a bunch of stuff I'd like. That doesn't help me much, now does it?
Gentlemen, here is a list of what to get for your lady (or ladies. Who am I to judge?):
**Side note: Be sure to discuss the budget with your girl beforehand so she's not expecting diamonds and you show up with lip gloss. That would be a Valentines Day catastrophe waiting to happen.**
{Sephora-Pantone Universe Dazzling Lip Gloss} - $12
It shows you care but isn't the type of make up that says "You're ugly, wear make up" or "You're a butter-face" or "You need this." Don't know her shade of choice? No problem. This is a variety pack so you can't go wrong. Lots of shades to choose from depending on the occasion and her mood (and skin tone but that's another lesson for another time.).
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.sephora.com |
{Caboodle White/Black Dot Make up Bag} - $19.50
Girls can always use another one of these. They get dingy pretty fast and I don't know about other girls but I'd much rather buy a new one than attempt to clean my old one. I always get mine as a free gift with my makeup purchase anyway. (Maybe if I owned a designer one my attitude would be different but for now, new is it.). She can use it for travel, everyday or as an extra case for all the make up she probably owns. If you're really smart you'll buy the lip gloss mentioned above and put it IN the make up bag. Or put her existing make up in it all organized and nice.(Now you're thinking! You'll get bonus points for effort if you do this. Add a little note and your set.)
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.ulta.com |
{Movie tix} - ~$10/ea To save some cash go to a matinee or use our student/military/senior discount if applicable. You can buy online at Fandango!
This means you have to take her to the movies and let her choose the flick. Rom-com here you come. If you're super slick you'll snag some candy from the grocery store, slip it in your pocket and break it out in the theater. Remember, we are on a $20 budget here (be warned, in other instances this would be cheap and reprehensible). Again, bonus points for forethought.
 |
| Photo courtesy of Google images - movie tickets |
{Old Navy Infinity Scarf} - $14
We are all anxious for spring so she just may break out her spring wardrobe before the weather actually warrants doing so. Wouldn't it be nice for her to have a cute scarf to throw on to stay warm as the weather transitions? Every time she puts it on she'll think of you!
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.oldnavy.com |
{Piperlime Tassel necklace} - $20
Mark my words, these will be all the rage, if not this season then next. She can easily pair this with a dress or a plain tee.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.piperlime.com |
{Earrings} - You have several options here. I've chosen mostly studs because they are versatile and easy to pair with many different outfits. A little sparkle and shine never hurt anyone. (The links to the items are below the images.)
{JCREW Factory Fireball Stud Earring} - $19.50
{Piperlime Round Cabachon Stud Earring} in green/gold. - $16
{South Moon Under Juliet & Company Vintage 'Jour' Post Teardrop Earring} - $19.99
{Piperlime Sabine Cabachon Ring} - $14.97
No. Not that kind. Be sure you don't present this to her in any way that may make her think this is a different kind if ring, if you know what I mean. That will just lead to tears, disappointment and massacre. This is what's called a cocktail ring. To be worn with a cocktail dress ideally, but with the right casual outfit can look fabulous.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.piperlime.com |
{Belle Hop Passport Case from Walmart} - $10.39
If you're not on a budget, plan a trip to go with it! If not then you'd only want to get this for the woman who travels often.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.walmart.com |
{Tocca Fue de Touch, Candelina in Gardenia} - $20
A beautiful floral scent reminiscent of spring. Draw her a bath after she opens it and leave her alone for a while.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.tocca.com |
{A bottle of sparkling wine} - Everyone's tastes are different so go with your gut, and of course she should be of legal drinking age. I've linked one of my favs, a Mas Fi Cava Brut NV from Spain.
 |
| Photo courtesy of Google images |
After much searching I've finally got some decent ideas for the guys. Girls get your pen and paper ready.
FOR HIM
{Passport case} - $17 (on clearance so shop fast!)
Leisure or work travel, this case can be very useful. A place for him to keep his passport and other important documents while he's traveling because I don't know about your guy but mine can't seem to remember where he puts things. We search for his wallet almost every day. Gotta love him.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.jcpenney.com |
{ITunes Giftcard} - Who doesn't love some new music, movies, or podcasts?
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.apple.com |
{Knit Solid Wool Tie} in Red Wine - $15
My husband LOVES these ties and a few years ago I got rid of some while I was "cleaning" and he's never forgiven me. Super soft and easy to clean these are great and come in a variety of colors.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.tiebar.com |
{Bond on Bond Reflections of 50 years of Bond Movies} - $16.97
A badass spy who solves mysteries and always gets the girl - every guy wants to be him and every girl wants to be with him. In this book Roger Moore recounts his days and experiences as Bond, playing Bond and watching Bond. Shaken, not stirred.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.amazon.com |
{A&F Classic Winter Hat} - $9.90
Keep him warm for these last winter months. I plan to cut off the pom pom because my husband's a little too old to be wearing pom poms.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.abercrombie.com |
{jcp Thermal Knit Striped Pullover }- $15
A warm, cozy knit shirt perfect for those cold winter nights. He can roll out of bed and go get bagels on Sunday. It's that stylish.
 |
| Photo courtesy of www.jcpenney.com |
Got other ideas? Let me know in the comments section.
Good luck shopping, and when you're done, pat yourself on the back for only spending $20.
And that, my friends, is worth a glass of champagne!
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