7.24.2015
Whole 30 - May The Odds Be Ever In Your Favor
After reading "It Starts With Food" or shall I say, after reading halfway through the book, I decided to try and complete my first Whole 30. This was decided back in May, but I wanted to make sure I had a firm grasp on the program before beginning.
When I was pregnant with E, my sister gifted us with Jessica Alba's book called "The Honest Life." This began the journey into the world of organics. I've seen many people joke about eating organic, using organic products, etc. While our family definitely does not eat or use organic products 100% of the time, I try my hardest to use them whenever possible. I swear, E lives better than we do. That's what we should be doing for our Munks, right? Her lotion, soap, shampoo, mattress pads, and diaper ointment are just a few of the ways we try to protect her, but we never used cloth diapers. We try not to be too crunchy!
I firmly believe that what we put in our mouths and use on our bodies is so important and decided to give Whole 30 a try. "It Starts With Food" really goes into the science behind the fuel we consume. It can be a dry read, but very informative. Numerous people with aches and pains who are ill and on multiple medications finds themselves pain free, feeling great and off the meds. Thankfully, I don't have these symptoms as a baseline. However, other benefits include: more energy (no afternoon slump), no snacking, no headaches, clearer skin, no mood swings, better sleep and weight loss is possible. Personally, I just wanted to give it a try to see if I could complete 30 days. Weight loss wouldn't be awful either! After a baby and 2 surgeries all in one year, a smaller clothing size would be refreshing.
You cannot start this plan without being organized, organized, organized! I began purchasing a few items prior to the big kick off. Thanks to amazon, I became the proud owner of a spiralizer, ghee, coconut flakes, and Epic bars. I also wanted to choose a 30 day period with little temptation. That stated, I decided to start the Monday after Independence Day to ensure a finish date prior to kick off at Auburn (Atlanta). Whole 30 is not focused on weight loss. The goal is to change your relationship with food and become aware of the ingredients you are feeding your body. This means no weighing yourself until the thirty days are over. I did weigh prior to starting and took pictures, but no measurements. In hindsight, I wish I had. Prior to each week I wrote out the meal plan with the help of Pinterest. Pinterest has been the best resource for compliant creations, which is why I'll post my meal plans each week for any other Whole 30 crazies looking for approved recipes.
7.12.2015
Stich Fix #3
Two blog posts in one year? Shut your mouth.
I'm back with my third review of Stitch Fix. Have you heard of Stitch Fix? You can sign up for it here.
On to my third and favorite (thus far) fix review. I had another stylist named Rachel for this fix. With each fix received, the stylist adds a personal note and gives suggestions for how to wear each item and maybe a reasoning for why she chose it for you. I was totally apprehensive when reading Rachel's note because it indicated that she was excited to create another fix for me. However, I have never had Rachel as a stylist. Skepticism aside, my optimism increased as her note was long and detailed. She also sent the mix of the fix I desired (1 dress/skirt, shorts, pants, 2 tops), which means she did pay attention to what I wanted and checked out my style profile. Cheers to you Rachel!
Stitch Fix #3
I am over dresses from Stitch Fix. This was a cute style and did not look hideous when I tried it on, but the design and color is not really me. Spoiler alert: If I had loved 4/5 of my items I would have kept this for the discount. I'm going to pass on the dresses for my next fix as this is the third attempt. I do give the stylist credit for going out of the box; it just didn't work. #next
Oh man. I requested shorts for my last fix and this one. When I finally received a pair, it was this. I almost have no words for this. Mainly because these shorts were tagged around $70. #nothanks Created with a thin material, I present a pair of drawstring, denim shorts. I didn't mind the print, but I do not have warm fuzzies for light denim. Nor would I pay that much for a pair of shorts that resembled PJ's. I need to mention that price point on my style profile. #next
Market & Spruce - Mori Top
What a fun top that I would not have picked out for myself. While updating the blog I realized that I need to take closer pictures next time. This top was tagged as pink, but I think it's closer to red. This tank has a cute, maple leaf (maybe?) print in pink (red?) and blue. The only problem is that it has two buttons at the top. What do I despise? Button ups. This top did not fit as the buttons did not lay flat on my chest. However, I did contact Stitch Fix and requested a different size. I really hope it fits in the chest area because I really liked it! #winning #maybe
Since my first stitch, I have continuously requested Margaret M pants. This stylist finally came through and sent this beauty. I love the comfortable fit and am super excited about the colored print. My other Emers have held up well and I hope that trend continues. As of now I think I like the cropped style better, but that may change with these. #winning
This was a pleasant surprise! I was hoping this wouldn't be a plain blue shirt (see my post about my first fix) and was relieved when it wasn't. Around the shoulders the top has a quilted texture and I like the subtle detail in the center of the top. I like the style as it has a cute cut on each side. Additionally, I really liked the bright blue color and do you know what's even better? It matches the blue on my Emers! #winning
Overall, I am hoping this fix will be a 3/5. When I have the time to shop I mainly stick to the Loft as I feel like I always need clothes for work. What I am loving about SF is that the items I keep are things I would not have picked out myself, but they (usually) are acceptable for work and play. I hover around the cheaper price points and so far, (start crossing those fingers) have had zero issues with the items being damaged after wearing and washing. I have requested to keep Rachel as my stylist for the next fix so see you back here in a month!
I'm back with my third review of Stitch Fix. Have you heard of Stitch Fix? You can sign up for it here.
On to my third and favorite (thus far) fix review. I had another stylist named Rachel for this fix. With each fix received, the stylist adds a personal note and gives suggestions for how to wear each item and maybe a reasoning for why she chose it for you. I was totally apprehensive when reading Rachel's note because it indicated that she was excited to create another fix for me. However, I have never had Rachel as a stylist. Skepticism aside, my optimism increased as her note was long and detailed. She also sent the mix of the fix I desired (1 dress/skirt, shorts, pants, 2 tops), which means she did pay attention to what I wanted and checked out my style profile. Cheers to you Rachel!
Stitch Fix #3
Level 99 - Shannie Printed Shorts
Market & Spruce - Mori Top
Margaret M - Emer Printed Straight Leg Pant
41Hawthorn - Angela Quilted Detailed Blouse
Overall, I am hoping this fix will be a 3/5. When I have the time to shop I mainly stick to the Loft as I feel like I always need clothes for work. What I am loving about SF is that the items I keep are things I would not have picked out myself, but they (usually) are acceptable for work and play. I hover around the cheaper price points and so far, (start crossing those fingers) have had zero issues with the items being damaged after wearing and washing. I have requested to keep Rachel as my stylist for the next fix so see you back here in a month!
6.11.2015
Stitch Fix #1 and #2
It's a wonderful thing that I do not get paid to update my blog. Or maybe I should - then I would not be such a slacker! After receiving my second Stitch Fix, it is very obvious that I need to share my review with you.
Have you heard of Stitch Fix? You can sign up for it here with my referral link:.
I received my first fix about a month ago. It was a 2/5. When I get a chance, I will update this with the exact names of these items for those of you who sneak a peek before your box arrives.
Stitch Fix #1
This is a horrible picture (not much has changed from my previous blogging days), but this is a tunic (I expressed my love of tunics). It has a sash that you can tie and wear with the shirt. Sometimes I tie it, but it depends on how quickly I am trying to get out the door! Yes, I kept this item. I would not have picked it out for myself, but liked the style and fit. #winning
Stitch Fix #2
This fix has played a few mental games with me. I decided to have a quick peek once I received the exciting email that my box had shipped.
You didn't know that you could stalk the items before they arrived on your doorstep? You can. Once it's shipped log into SF and go to checkout. From here you can see the names of the items you are getting and the cost.
I decided to look because I wanted to confirm that the amount I budgeted was realistic. I did not participate in what the majority of SF stalkers do and search for the items on the world wide web. I immediately was disappointed because I was receiving pair of jeans, a dress (not awful) and three tops. Mainly I was angry because I specifically requested business casual items for the bottom half of my body (pants, capris, skirts), casual shorts for summer, and professed my undying love for the Margaret M pants (see above). Not to mention that the note to my stylist and the dislikes on my style profile point blank say no button ups or anything sheer. Guess what items have sheer and button up in the name? Yup, 2/3 tops. Sign. I also had a different stylist from last time. #angela
As I come to an end for this post, I cannot promise anymore updates for 2015. But I can give you my referral link for SF. Give it a try. The worst case scenario is losing your $20.
And I will not be requesting Angela anytime soon.
Have you heard of Stitch Fix? You can sign up for it here with my referral link:.
I received my first fix about a month ago. It was a 2/5. When I get a chance, I will update this with the exact names of these items for those of you who sneak a peek before your box arrives.
Stitch Fix #1
Gilli - Adison Dress
Dresses are welcome and I really like this style/design. However, it fit funny and because it is summer, I sent it back as it looks like more of a winter dress to me. #nextPixley - Polly Dotted Chevron Tie Waisted Tunic
41Hawthorn - Queensland Dolman Jersey Top
Another tunic! I love when my stylist listens to me (because I am like such a professional stitch fixer - ha). It was very clingy in all the wrong places, a thicker material (not ideal for the humidity) and very plain. At over $50 it was not worth it IMO. #nextMargaret M - Emer Jaquard Print High Waisted Cropped Pant
By far, these pants were the most pleasant surprise of all. I requested items for work and am pleased to say these were perfect! The waist is composed of a stretchy material (perfect for post baby, post surgeries, big meals, etc.) and made from a light fabric. They are black with a fun design. I would have never picked these out for myself as they are a style I don't typically love (cropped), but they are fantastic. #winningZad - Marley Scroll Detail Drop Earrings
My last item was a pair of earrings. Eh. I was drawn to them and would have kept them IF the other items would have worked out. Now that baby E (who isn't a baby anymore for my faithful followers) is out of the grabbing stage (knock on wood), I am thinking about accessorizing more. For the price (without the discount) and the quality of the jewelry, I sent them back. Stitch Fix #2
This fix has played a few mental games with me. I decided to have a quick peek once I received the exciting email that my box had shipped.
You didn't know that you could stalk the items before they arrived on your doorstep? You can. Once it's shipped log into SF and go to checkout. From here you can see the names of the items you are getting and the cost.
I decided to look because I wanted to confirm that the amount I budgeted was realistic. I did not participate in what the majority of SF stalkers do and search for the items on the world wide web. I immediately was disappointed because I was receiving pair of jeans, a dress (not awful) and three tops. Mainly I was angry because I specifically requested business casual items for the bottom half of my body (pants, capris, skirts), casual shorts for summer, and professed my undying love for the Margaret M pants (see above). Not to mention that the note to my stylist and the dislikes on my style profile point blank say no button ups or anything sheer. Guess what items have sheer and button up in the name? Yup, 2/3 tops. Sign. I also had a different stylist from last time. #angela
Hailey 23 - Gavin Striped Dress
I am very accepting of dresses. However, because I sent the last one back for being too "wintery" I was sad that I received another dress in black and white. It was a very cute cut and would have been appropriate for work, church, etc. Unfortunately, I didn't love it hugging my stomach and would have preferred a different color and lighter material. #next
Collective Concepts - Esten Button-Up Sleeveless Blouse
A word of advice, if it has button up in the title and I shared my disdain for button ups it would be wise to keep it in the warehouse. I did try it on as it is navy and the style was appropriate for work, but our relationship ended there. The top is very sheer (not work appropriate) and although it had a loose fit, my ta-tas were busting through. #next
Lucy Sheer Yoke Knit Tank
Another sheer item. Excellent. I tried this tank on and considered keeping it. I somewhat liked the style, but IMO it is too casual for work. What are those adorable little lines on the front and back of the shirt? They are peepholes. I can see myself sitting in the conference room and a coworker glances over thinking "Can I see through her shirt? Is that her skin showing?" No thanks. I debated keeping it, but won't give in for an item I can only wear at home. #next
Pixley - Eileen Honeycomb Texture Knit Tank
I immediately was attracted to this top as soon as I unwrapped the tissue paper. All through dinner I was hoping this somewhat cropped top would be a good fit. I paired it with the capris (see below) and went to show my husband. J can be quite unfiltered and is a terrible liar, but seemed to really like it. This is a top I feel comfortable wearing to work or out for date night. The shirt I kept from my last fix was also from Pixley so that brand will be requested on my style profile. #winning
Kut From The Kloth - Haiden Straight Leg Jean
This is the item I did not want to love. Thankfully they are jean CAPRIS and not full length jeans as I imagined from my sneak peek. I really liked them. Sign. Unlike my other jean capris they are a darker wash (my sister will be proud) and super soft. Plus, the cuff is stitched so I do not need to waste my time folding them for the perfect sized cuff. I decided to keep them even though I cannot wear them to work....But I can wear them to Game Day. #winning #WDEAs I come to an end for this post, I cannot promise anymore updates for 2015. But I can give you my referral link for SF. Give it a try. The worst case scenario is losing your $20.
And I will not be requesting Angela anytime soon.
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