Getting Active with Yummie

I don't normally post on Sundays, but I had to get this in before the sale goes away...it's too good! Since December 3, Yummie has been having amazing deals each day and today is the day all Active is a whopping 40-percent off with the code FIT40 (plus, there's free standard shipping!). Yummie used to be known as only shapewear and, by the way, I lived in it after baby L. (I mean, every. day.) Since this fall, they've introduced activewear and I'm soooo excited about these pieces they sent me. The entire line is really fun and comfy, and who doesn't love looking good while they work out? (If you're reading this and it's already Monday, all denim today only is only $60 + free standard shipping!)

What I love about these Yummie pieces is that of course you can use them to be active! But you can also wear them around town running errands (hey, I do it and I have no shame.). I'll add a puffer vest (in December it's not all that cold in the south, thank goodness) to run quick errands or to go in and out of the gym, or most of the time I'll layer a cropped sweatshirt over the tank here. 

Here I'm wearing the Daria tank with Mia sports bra (and let me tell ya I wanted to show it to you, too, because it would look amazing with a hoodie, but I'm just not toned enough yet after baby and not trying to break the Internet...wink.). It's hard to tell in the photos, but they have a very cute croc print on them. I'm in love with how soft the material is, and I'm very surprised at how much I love this hue! And these are the black Hannah leggings, a must for any active wardrobe. They're comfy, but they also suck in that excess holiday weight. :)

P.S. I'm finished with my Trimdown Thursday column, but considering adding back a Motivation Monday, Tone-up Tuesday or Fitness Friday...what's your vote? I've been way too easy on the exercise lately, so hope to get back to it and show you all my cute workout gear! It totally motivates me and makes me feel good while working out. Amen to that.

Vest (and beanie, below) by Banana Republic; Tank, Bra and Leggings by Yummie; Shoes by Kenneth Cole

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How To Wear: The Fancy Sweatshirt

 

This weather right now is a little tricky, so I decided to put together a couple of looks using the floral embroidered sweatshirt (Lotus Swet) that arrived this week from Sanctuary. In a nutshell, I adore. (it's quilted!) Dress it up or dress it down...it's the best.

 

This fall, it's all about as much black as you can find in your closet, so this girl here is alllll about that! This is a great fancy sweatshirt for work or play and you can dress it down or up, as I've done here. It's also amazing for this in-between weather right now because it's not too thick, and you can mix it with pieces that transition with the weather. (Bonus points: baby L is fascinated with the white flowers on this piece!)

 

Another closet staple? A pair of amazing black pants, and these by Sanctuary truly are. They have a wide leg and I feel like they make my legs look extra long (which I could use!). And don't forget wearing an all-black silhouette just makes you look that much thinner (but if you don't think I do, please don't tell me, k?). I'm topping every, single outfit lately with a black fedora. I bought this one for $5 at Charming Charlie a couple of years ago, but this season they are extra on-trend, so you scoop one up because they totally transform an outfit, and keep your noggin' warm! Props also to the Swarovski team for sending over the sparkly Stardust bracelet I can't take off lately. It's truly gorgeous and my latest go-to accessory.

But when I want to dress for our cold in the morning/hot in the afternoon weather down south, I wear my floral Sanctuary sweatshirt with a pair of (vegan) leather shorts (these are BLANKNYC and they're final sale right now!) and my new Nine West boots I scored at DSW. (they're major comfy and they even zip over my larger calves...although I'm banking on the fact that I've been going to Pure Barre as the reason they zip!) I also bought this plaid jacket at Target over the weekend and am obsessed. Plaid is rad this fall, and this jacket even has a hood! So fun. 

P.S. If you've been following my Trimdown Thursdays, just so you know, I'm still logging my post-baby weight until the actual number hits the scale. I've hit it several times, but want to be consistent before I declare that I MADE IT. :) But, ya know, I'm there give or take. Whew. Watch this space for a change of columns soon...exciting things!

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Trimdown Thursday: Rainbow Bright

The weather here has been crazy...the usual southern Arkansas crazy, I guess. I'm terrified of storms and I just found out that October has more tornadoes than the springtime, so maybe fall isn't my fav after all. Shrug. But once the storms cleared Monday, we've had the most beautiful weather, so I can't complain. Who doesn't love being able to wear boots and flowy shirts all at once? This outfit is, in fact, my version of transitioning to cold weather...it's an in-between outfit. Because while I do love the 70-degree weather, it's usually 50s in the morning, which makes the day SO hard to dress for...am I right?

Lately I've been living in leather leggings and can I tell you a secret? These are maternity. Shhhh...Ironically enough they were too small for me during pregnancy (blush), so I hung onto them because the only thing that makes them maternity is that they're elastic...seriously. So because it's totally pumpkin patch season and I've been outside running around with the kids a ton, I slipped on cowboy boots instead of heels (major blush). I told you I'm having a flats moment, and that's ok. Baby L is just now eight months old, and I'm still adjusting to life with two. At the moment, there's no way I can run in heels, too. We'll save those right now for special occasions. Wink. 

You know what I can live in though? Everything from Show Me Your MuMu (cutest name, huh?). This brand has soooo many light and airy boho tops, dresses and skirts, you'll end up browsing the site for hours (guilty). I was sent this Moon Tunic ($136) in the Muami Sunset print, and it's one of my fav ways to brighten up my wardrobe and put a lil' pep in my step because shouldn't our wardrobe be more FUN? I know mine could stand to be! Honestly, I tried wearing it with cutoffs like the models in the photos, but just felt silly (err, and my legs a littttttle more Pure Barre. and a tan). So, I've found leather leggings are my fav way to style it if I'm not wearing flare jeans. But I'm not kidding you when I say there are zillions of tunics (and kimonos! and dresses!), I would just die to wear on the Show Me Your MuMu site. 

And can you believe this necklace is Avon? Yes! They sent me this Modern Multi-Chain necklace from their fall collection, and I can't get over how on trend it is! I love to wear it with a simple tee to dress things up. And, of course, my Rebecca Minkoff Knocked Up diaper bag will forever be on my arm...filled to the brim. I can't tell you what a lifesaver.

There's no real Trimdown Thursday update this week because I've been fluctuating a couple pounds here and there. One day the scale declared my GOAL weight, but I'm not counting it because it hasn't stayed consistent yet. I'm just watching what I eat and continuing to get in some exercise so that that scale will stay on the post-baby number and I can finally declare it via this blog and on my Weight Watchers weight tracker. So, so close!! And whew. Can I say this body's glad this was the last baby?! =)

P.S. Did I tell you I took baby L. to get this hair shown here blown out last week? She's an angel baby! But the salon trip? Major fail. Not sure what had her bugging that day but she was not herself, without a single smile and major tears. Sigh. Someday she'll love the beauty salon. Some day. But next time I might just have to do my cut solo...

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Trimdown Thursday: Feeling Good, Almost There

Ok, yay! I finally lost the New York Fashion Week fluff from several weeks ago, whew. Like I've said, I hadn't had much exercise up until the last couple of weeks and I really made a point this week and last to get out in the morning with the stroller and do my best. It felt great! The baby gets a nap, I get my cardio...we all win! Except she always falls asleep on the last lap and I end up getting a little more than I bargained for...le sigh. 

Pilates? Eh. I'm so sad I won't be able to makes classes right now because of little C's preschool schedule, but I know in time once baby L gets bigger and little C. starts kindergarten (tears) I'll be able to again. I'm just enjoying her being a baby right now and little C. still being a tad little and trying not worry too much about that. I think I will try to bring baby L for a private lesson though and see how she does watching me for 30 minutes...ya know, after she's napped and been fed, of course. She's generally a pretty easy-going baby, so I think she will do fine (my hair appointment next week will be the first test...gritting teeth...). I was able to make it to Pure Barre this weekend, and I still have another class I've already bought, so I'm going to try to go again within the next week. PB is my new weekend workout because I can have D. help watch the kiddos for an hour. 

Weight Watchers? Well, I'm pretty much just waiting on this last 1-2 pounds to get off my body, so that I can finally track my pre-baby weight GOAL. C'mon, scale. I've sorta stopped eating the frozen meals, and I will say while I got tired of them, gosh were they easy to pop in the microwave. I've been struggling a bit lately for easy, healthy meals. So, I hope to track my final weight pretty darn soon, in a nutshell. 

It's been close to 90 degrees here this week, so I've really been into wearing either workout shorts and tennis shoes for my jogs, or dresses. I received this new one from Michael Stars and I just love the soft, brown (mushroom?) hue for fall (also comes in black!), not to mention this sheath style is flattering to anyone (and the elbow sleeves are, too.). I'm also also excited to drag these ponyhair booties from Stuart Weitzman out of the closet this fall. I received them when I was newly pregnant, so didn't wear them much last year. I'm squealing over them this fall because the chunky heel is perfect for carrying baby. 

The pink flower necklace was another Zara find on my NY trip (I told you I bought out the store! they have so many big, chunky statement necklaces right now...), and the Kelly Green (embossed python!) clutch was given to me by the GiGi New York team while visiting fashion week...they even monogrammed my initials! If you're looking for a simple clutch for all of your fall outfits, this one is great because it comes in so many colors, has a chic tassel and you can monogram your name, of course. Can't beat that chicness. 

Signing off...JLW

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Trimdown Thursday: Casual Mix

Let's get this straight, I just don't feel comfortable reintroducing my "how I wore my heels" column for at least a few more months. Why? I'm a mom to a 7-month-old (and an almost 5-year-old), so obviously I'm not running around in my stilettos at the moment. And I say at the moment because I will be back in them before you know it, but it's not my lifestyle right now and I don't wanna be fake about it. (Fake is a huge pet peeve of mine, chicks.) Don't get me wrong, I'm not "sacrificing style" for the sake of being a new mom (eye roll)...you won't see me wearing Converse day in and out (although I do love my Chucks some days)...a great wedge is my BFF, for sure. But, I'm also mixing in sneaker wedges...ballet flats...slip-ons...and these amazing new Chooka rainboots. Ah, yes, it's fall! I'm excited to once again wear tall boots (pumpkin patch season...squeal!), and that includes these. 

I bought this sweatshirt dress while in New York a few weeks ago, and heavens if Zara wasn't two blocks from our hotel. If you notice everything on instagram is tagged with Zara, that's my fault. Blush. I went a tad bit nutso. This dress is pretty sweeeeeet. It's so comfy, and it's actually one of those items that caught my eye as I was just about to leave the store. I wear it with every, single kind of shoe there is, no joke, and I'm thrilled these rainboots coordinate so well. They're the Top Solid style from Chooka and I love them because they have an adjustable strap for those of us with larger calves (although I have to say, I didn't even have to adjust them...must be all that Pure Barre!). 


Speaking of barre, I'm planning on getting back to it this weekend when they host a free class along with free Benefit makeup (ummm, sign me up?!). Funny I'm also hosting a Benefit Beauty Bash involving my closest friends (aka wing women) and lotsa mascara, so watch for photos on instagram. 

As far as my diet goes, my birthday was this week, so I've been eating out wayyyy too much and I must get rid of this ice cream cake in my freezer. I'm not gonna lie, I haven't lost these last five pounds yet, but after reintroducing exercise a little bit this week, I'm gonna find some good juices at Whole Foods and kick this thing back into gear. Maybe next week will be the big final reveal? ;) 

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Trimdown Thursday: Getting Back in the Groove

I'm kinda ashamed of this Trimdown Thursday. By this week, I should've been proclaiming I'm down to my pre-baby weight again! But, alas. I knew before I left for New York that I only had two more pounds to go and that wasn't bad at all. I also knew I would be indulging on my trip and that just like my beach vacay, it would set me back another week or so. But for some reason I'm still disappointed. I now have four pounds to go again, and I've signed up for one more month of Weight Watchers. Although since I've been back from New York, I haven't wanted to track my points...soooooo bad (I got into the habit of not doing it while there, so...). 

I also haven't been able to exercise but a couple of stroller rides here and there, because of my mom's recent illness/recovery (did you read yesterday's post?). I'm hoping I can make it to a barre class this weekend...I've already bought the class to try to motivate myself! The baby has been sleeping better than ever so why am I still dragging?! I must stop making excuses. I've made it this far - I can't quit at just four pounds left, right? I know the scale is just a number, and my clothes certainly fit, but if I allow five extra pounds, soon I'll allow 10 and so on. I've gotta quickly change my eating habits back from vacay mode to serious mode, and kick in some more cardio. Now that the weather outside is cooler, I'm really hoping I can jog with baby more and more. It also just makes me feel better! 

Tell me. How do you stay motivated, and what are your tricks for getting serious after returning from vacation?

P.S. I'm loving this new (wrinkle free!) white pullover that I can slip on over my workout gear. It's from trendy activewear line Heather Grey and it pairs so well with the rest of my classic black workout wardrobe. (Leggings are Spanx...backpack is the DOMINO by Ash.)

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Trimdown Thursday: New York Fashion Week Edition

As you know by now, I've been at NY Fashion Week! Normally I'd say it never gets old, but with a double ear infection the first day got a littttttle old (hey, I give it to you straight). I was in such pain until the next day, really, and then when I finally started to feel better? It was time to hop on a plane again and then my ears lost it again. And worse. I'm now on the mend after a handy-dandy steroid shot, so no worries. Let's discuss the Trimdown, shall we?

Unfortunately, it's not the last week. I told you I'd imbibe champagne and Serendipity frozen hot chocolates, right? I went. I saw. I conquered, y'all. While I didn't eat the entire Salted Caramel confection (my. fav.), I ate most (too much sugar makes my body nuts.), and loved every minute of it. Ironically I stopped in Dylan's Candy Bar on the way back to the hotel (but that was for little C. Wink.). Needless to say, I hopped on the scale the morning after I returned and gasped instead of squealed. I gained FOUR lbs in one weekend? I mean, I walked in heels all. day. long. Le sigh. 

The next morning I weighed even less, and now I'm back to my 2-more-pounds-to-go-you-can-do-it-mantra. I'm calling next week my final Trimdown Thursday...BOOM. (Hate it when people say that, actually). So, I went shopping the weeks before fashion week, because that's what I do (D complains it costs us a fortune before I even arrive.) and because I've been incredibly stressed. I bought leather shorts. It felt so good, and I plan to wear these BLANKNYC shorts with tights into the fall/winter. 

While I was in NY, I shopped daily at Zara. No joke...it was two blocks away from The Empire Hotel, where I stayed (more on that later.). I have sooo many pieces I can't wait to show you, including this gorgeous coral top. (Pretty sure everything else I bought is black and black.) 

Oh, and did you catch my new DOMINO backpack from Ash? You're gonna need one this fall. Lifesaver for fashion week (except for that time I forgot to zip it and a random lady told me on the street. Freakout moment. Always check this, folks.). 

All this to say...I'm still not back to exercising (other than vigorously strutting the streets in wedges) and I'm tired of frozen Weight Watchers meals. I'm watching what I eat this week and will jog over the weekend (or make a Pure Barre class), hopefully. And hopefully I'll be able to record my pre-baby weight in my WW app very soon. Squeal. 

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Trimdown Thursday: Soybu Chic

So here I am again...Trimdown Thursday. If all goes well there will only be one more week of this baby bounceback thang (except I'm leaving for NY tomorrow and there will be lots of cake and champagne!). Whew. It's been a long journey, but one I'm very proud of, actually. My life has been completely and utterly insane the past month, so it's been twice as hard to lose with this second baby (but nonetheless, I have). 

If you've followed my weight loss journey, you'll know I had been exercising nearly every day of the week. The past few weeks? One walk. That's it. So a few days ago I scheduled a private Pilates session because my lower back is starting to hurt. Of course, that's when baby L decided to run a fever and I had to cancel that, too. Instead of tons of exercise, I've had to really watch my diet (hello, Weight Watchers). And I know that in time I'll be able to resume regular exercise, but for now I've gotta deal with something called LIFE (more later). I'm sure the streets of NY will remind me how much I love to walk...in heels. :)

I'm so ecstatic to have discovered Soybu to help me on my weight loss journey. I have just TWO pounds to go, and there's nothing like new workout gear to really motivate. Call me crazy, but it's a TOP motivator for me. Wear my new purple shirt?! Of course! I don't mind that 8:30 a.m. Pilates session AT all. And I know I'll feel that much better when  done. Mind. Body. It's so great!

Soybu has an entire fall collection that just screams gimme. I had a really hard time deciding on these pieces from the Fresco Collection they sent because their pieces incorporate really great silhouettes and cuts as well as very wearable colors and patterns. These are the Allegro leggings in the Synergy print paired with the Goddess tank in black (love this so much because of the ruching and built-in bra!) and Michelle Dolman in the Fresco print (p.s. I love wearing purple!). I love a tank with a slouchy shirt over it...and cute leggings. It's my signature workout uniform! Just add a pair of bright flip-flops for to and from the gym. ;)

And now you can win a Goddess Tank of your own! Just enter in the box below. You'll loooove this everyday, versatile tank that's so comfy. Good luck...off to fashion week I go! Xoxo 

P.S. You can also enter code IHEARTHEELS on Soybu.com to receive 25-percent off your next online purchase! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Trimdown Thursday: The Home Stretch

 

You read that title right, folks. I'm in the HOME STRETCH. I did it! This past week I lost another two pounds, so now I'm officially "under 10 pounds to go." Can I get a squeal or two, please? I know you're thinking how many cupcakes did she eat? (a lot) But, I've lost almost 50 pounds since I gave birth to baby L. in February (I gained about 57) and I mostly owe it to Weight Watchers (for nursing moms) and Pure Barre. 

The past month I've really loved my private Pilates training (but sheesh, that gets expensive!), and I'll forever be obsessed with Pilates mat class. But I've also really broken into cardio by getting up at 6:30 with baby L. almost every morning these days and walking/jogging the neighborhood. I used to never love mornings (and I still groan to get out of bed...but, hey, when you don't sleep it doesn't ever really matter much! she still wakes me every three hours to nurse, even from her crib.). These days it's my "quiet time" of reflection and I've found it actually relaxing to get this time in with baby L. My neighborhood has a few good hills, so it's great exercise pushing the stroller...whew! This is really my only time of peace and quiet ALL day while little C. is at home this summer. Oh, and I learned a trick. I've started sleeping in my workout clothes so that I'm ready to go in the mornings. Call me crazy, but this. is. amazing. (That and my coffee.)

If you haven't noticed, I'm obsessed with Lilla P lately. (Cut to last week.) They sent me some pretty gorgeous pieces this summer (including this Pima/Modal Stretch Cross Front Dress, $140) to work into my new mom wardrobe, and this dress is just the ticket. It gets downright HOT down south, so jeans just won't cut it (and who can stand taking care of babies in skinny jeans anyway?). Instead of shorts 24/7 (I'm just not that casual of a gal, honestly), I'm loving dresses like this because of (a) the color and (b) the comfort factor. A knit dress like this is just as comfy as anything! 

And the shoes? Well, you guessed it. Wedges are my friend these days (but you better bet I'll be packing some "real" heels for fashion week come September!). I've always adored my Sperry Topsider boat shoes for summertime lounging, but did you know they have super-cute wedges? These (the Saylor...$98) they sent me are so easy to be a mom in and still feel cute. Ya know? ;)

Check back here next week for a special shoe promotion I'm working on with my favorite local outdoor mall in town, The Promenade at Chenal. You won't wanna miss it! (And hopefully I'll be able to say only seven pounds to go?)

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Trimdown Thursday: The Final 10

If you've been following my baby bounceback since spring, you'll know that I've been working hard to shed the beloved baby weight...and my deadline is New York Fashion Week. Eek. That's just five weeks away now, and I'm still right on target to meet my goal that very week. (And yes, I still plan on the frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity while there if said goal happens.) 

I'm now on the final 10 and am at the point where it's so close that I'm getting a little antsy...and slightly bored with it all. Some days I think, eh, I look and feel fine...what's 10 more pounds? But then I remind myself that my clothes still don't completely fit all the way normal, even though they button and zip. Eyes on the prize Jules, eyes on the prize. If I'm going to do the dang thing, I'm gonna do it right and all the way, so...I'm still working out to my heart's content (still the same mix of Pilates, Pure Barre and cardio) and eating Weight Watchers (although it was my husband's birthday this week, so I fudged a little by eating a decadent piece of an ice cream cake...thank goodness for those flex points, eh?). 

You're probably thinking by now, hasn't she lost it all YET? What's taking so long. Well, hons, I tend to not be of the type to just gain it and lose it, no prob. This bod's gotta work (werk?) to shed the pounds, so hopefully after another month you won't have to keep hearing about it (ya bored yet?). (Hey and don't forget I'm still nursing. In case you didn't read yesterday's update. Gotta keep up the nutrition!) But truthfully this blog keeps me accountable and helps me stay on track. And besides fitting into my fav cutoffs this week (score!), it's even more about how my body is transforming and toning up. It's great to see my legs and arms getting more definition, and I have to tell you that my private Pilates instructor has realllllly worked these abs, but she's also given me a bit of "therapy." And no, not that kind. I have lower back issues (I blame it on the epidural with my firstborn....ugh...go natural if ya can, k?) and when I have babies I also develop neck issues from sleeping weird (this one will sleep in her crib, y'all). So my instructor (let's call her Babs) has worked with me to get those issues stretched out and it. is. wonderful. 

So as far as my wardrobe goes, I'm living in shorts now, which is funny to me because for like ever I lived in tummy control leggings. I got soooo tired of wearing the same thing! I'm squealing over the amount of new clothing I have now (because, um, did I mention you can get lost in my closet?). I'm also loving flowy dresses. Yesterday I wore my distressed skinny jeans for the first time in over a year, and it was so fun (until I spilled almond butter on them...I mean, how do you do that?). I'm delighted in the fact that I have about 50 pairs of jeans to slip into come fall, so I'm sorta saving those for the grand finale. I know once I can wear all of them comfortably, that's what I'll live in, so I'm embracing the shorts in this hot weather while I can. 

Shoes? You know I'm not teetering around in stilettos all day with these babes of mine. But when I do have somewhere to be besides the school pick-up line (and, yes, this could include the grocery store. no judging.), I love to sort through my shoes and find a pair of heels to make me feel so good. I shop in them, I run errands in them, I do special occasions in them. I savor every moment in them while I can because honestly I don't wanna wear them while I'm toting the car seat on one arm. Not safe...and not fun. A good compromise for me lately has been the plethora of wedges I own, and I was just sent these by Brian James, a mom-friendly brand I adore. (Here are the flats I own, too. This was a year ago, and I was two months pregnant!) Follow the brand on Facebook and Twitter because they've got some super styles that you can actually walk in, mamas. :) And Lilla P is who makes the tank and cardi wrap here. This is another great brand of basics that you'll wanna live in, trust me. I've been wearing this brand forever...I mean, look how young I look here and it was just three years ago! My how children age you.) 

So that's my summer uniform as of late in a nutshell. I feel like I can be cute and function as a new mom in this - and be comfy. Now about these pesky 10 pounds...I hope to report back next week that I'm on the "less than 10 pound" road to weight loss...stay tuned!!

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Trimdown Thursday: Eating for Weight Loss AND Nursing

Ok, soooo I kinda slacked this week on photos, so I'm sorry if you follow on Instagram and already saw this. It rained yesterday, and my husband was out of town part of the weekend. I also had to schedule almost all of my "scheduled" exercise for the end of this week. This means for the next three days I'll be working my lil' seat off. Literally. Cardio...Pure Barre...Pilates. It's not over yet (although I kinda sorta wish it was. Did I tell you I zipped my skinny jeans this week? Major.). I'm due to lose all the baby weight the week I leave for NY, which is the goal I've set. Can I just tell you that a frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity awaits? 

Speaking of diet. Since I haven't done the bulk of my exercising yet this week, I thought I'd talk a little bit about Weight Watchers (who has not paid me a dime to say this, by the way). I started the WW for nursing moms program in mid-March and have since lost 23 pounds (hey, there was a beach vacay in there, so cut me some slack.). Like I've said before, I wouldn't be taking my time and being near as strict about points if I wasn't nursing. But I need to make sure I'm losing at a healthy pace, which is 1-2 pounds per week. I love WW because I can still eat good, healthy meals and know I'm eating enough for both me and baby. I'm not starving myself as fad diets do! Just eating sensibly. 

So what do I do on WW and what do I eat? I initially signed up for three months to get me going, and for the last couple months I've been paying month to month. If all goes well, I only have one more month! Since I'm doing the program online (versus attending meetings I don't have time for), Weight Watchers has this neat iPhone app where I just input my food every day. That's the key...every. day. You can't slip!

I love how easy the app is. This is my third time to do WW, but my first to try online/the app and it's by far my fav way. It only takes a second to track your weight once a week and I love seeing it visually on the chart/table. You can also look up tons of restaurants and know what's ok to eat without going over your daily points. I use this all the time and practically have things memorized. My fav Starbucks coffee = 3 points. 

Here are some things I've been eating. Right now the variety sucks, but that's always been my weight loss strategy. Stick to the things you know are good; that work. You can spice things up later! Eye on the prize. 

1. Weight Watchers frozen meals 

These might sound gross to you, but they're actually not bad. (Although I'm not an incredibly picky eater.) Problem? There's just not much to them. Thus, the reason WW has def taught me portion control. These meals usually range from 6-8 points and include lots of chicken pasta, Thai pasta, enchiladas, etc. I eat them for dinner a lot so I only have to worry about everyone else when I'm tired. Three minutes in the microwave for me and voila. They're two for $5, so not cheap. (P.S. Not so much a fan of their desserts. Might as well eat a couple mini Kit Kats and save the 3 points.)

2. Almond butter and apples

This is my go-to snack so I can get in my fruit. I'm obsessed with Maranatha nut butters...soooo good. And just 5 points. 

3. Starbucks 

Like I said, my fav frappuccino is just 3 points. It's a nice treat for me, a necessary pick-me-up and much better than chocolate cake. ;)

4. KIND bars

These are my world. My everything. I looooove these bars. I eat one for breakfast every day for just 6 points, and of course I love the ones with chocolate. They're also a great snack, but def not cheap. I love how they're low glycemic and the protein keeps me full. 

5. Salads

Chick-Fil-A has a Grilled Market Salad that I eat at least once a week. It's only 3 points and you can't beat that. It has blueberries, strawberries, apples and nuts, in addition to the grilled chicken and blue cheese. I order light Italian dressing because there's no points and the sugar is low compared to the honey mustard (which has about 20 grams...eek!). 

Any time I can order a salad somewhere, I do. But the next best thing is ordering vegetables. I order extra and that way little C and I both get our nutrition. 

6. Smoothies

I also like to get a peanut butter and banana (and almond milk) smoothie at the gym, or a kale smoothie at Tropical Smoothie...an easy way to get the good stuff! 

Now...just 10 more pounds to go! I can totally do this. What do you like to eat when losing weight...what have you had success with?

Disclaimer: I'm not a doctor, so please consult yours before starting any new diet or exercise plan. 

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Trimdown Thursday: Weight Loss Update + Shoe Giveaway!

It's been a long week. little C has been on a summer break, so I've had both kiddos all day...whew! Luckily, I have help, but still the nighttime can be exhausting. It's always nice to put on a pair of heels and just go do something for a minute...take a "heel break." Most people take a break and put on their flip-flops and sweats, but with staying a home all day, I find myself doing the opposite and putting on heels for a break. Does wonders for the soul, I tell ya. :) With only 12 pounds left to lose on my new workout routine and Weight Watchers, I'm feeling soooo great! In fact, I'm wearing many of my normal clothes (including jeans and cutoffs!) now. I'm feeling much more like my old self again.

For shoes lately, it's all practical now that I'm not thinking of myself so much! I'm really interested in ShoeDazzle and what they have to offer, especially since Rachel Zoe signed on to curate her fav collections. I already owned a few pairs "pre Zoe" but I feel like the heels selection has gotten major (pun intended) lately. I simply l-o-v-e these dressy sandals (the Aubree) so much because they're classic (they also have a fun color combo in nude/purple) and look so very stylish (warning: they. are. tall.). And you would never be able to tell they're so inexpensive ($40, hello?). They're part of the June collection, but the July and August collections are just as stunning, y'all. And there are sooooo many shoes to a collection it's really hard to pick a fav every month. So. Good. 

I'm also wearing lots of oversized dresses this summer as I finish losing the baby weight (getting sooo close but will never tire of easy dresses!). This black one by Lauren Moshi is a fav I picked up at a local shop called Steamroller Blues (I love this shop because they have tons of oversized pieces that are so effortlessly cool...my fav style these days!). Lauren Moshi is a great brand because every design is original artwork by the designer.  Love that! This dress is super soft (and honestly, makes nursing easy because I just wear a tank underneath). Makes me want summer to never end! ;)

SHOE GIVEAWAY!

To win a pair of ShoeDazzle shoes of your own, just enter your info in the box below and I'll choose one winner at random next week. Sweet summer present, right? ;) Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Trimdown Thursday: An Update on My Workout Routine

So...I went shopping at Marshall's via a gift card they provided. It's my fav place for workout clothes & I bought all three pieces here for $50. 

Can I be honest with you? I'm so ready for this body to bounce back. Silence. Go ahead, body, bounce back. I'm waiting...Sigh. If you've ever had a baby you KNOW what I mean. If you've ever had more than one baby, you reallllllly know. We're now all a club of BFFs who just know how completely hard it is to lose weight, and if you're not a major fitness buff, how miserable it can be. And me? I like things to happen quickly. I don't understand when it takes things awhile to happen (hence while I sorta love New York and its ability to get me my coffee...a new purse...a ride to the other end of the island...in no time flat). I know, I know. It took nine months to pack it on, so it will take at least that long to get it off. 

Since it's my last time to "bounce back," I think I'm dragging just a little. I'm also nursing a little longer with no plans to stop anytime soon (it's only been five months). Honestly? I resent my huge nursing boobs, and I feel like if I had stopped nursing by now I could've weaned her...and eaten as little or whatever I wanted to lose these last 15 pounds. Wouldn't have to worry about a baby to feed. But, I do have a baby to feed. And weaning for vanity seems so selfish. I'm not worried this last chunk of weight will come off, and I think that's what's got me moving slower this time around. Baby is my priority, not the weight. I guess I've matured a little since I had my first baby and weaned right around this time. 

With that being said I have a new workout routine for the next two months...remember my deadline is New York Fashion Week? Right now I'm on track to lose it all THE week I leave. Scary, right? I think I can do it, but if I can't, there will be a lot of oversized tunics involved. In black. 

Here's a little bit of what I'm doing:

1. Pilates: I've been an avid fan since 2008, and practiced up until the last month of my pregnancy. It's what helped me lose baby weight #1, so why shouldn't I rely on it? The first time around I had enough time to attend my group class three times a week, but this time I'll be trying for twice (and that's stretching it). This also includes some weight training. 

2. Private Training: The above Pilates is mat work and with a group. Once a week, I'll be toning and burning with my Pilates instructor B. who will whip these abs into shape on the reformer and machines. At least, I'm hoping so. She's good, so I'm hoping she'll work her magic. 

3. Cardio: This, my friends, is the kicker. I use the two mornings little C is away to get a grueling three-mile stroller walk in (with hills), and then try to get at least two (maybe three) more days in of either stroller or just me. Let me tell ya, it's HOT out there. (Why did I sell my treadmill again?)

4. Pure Barre: How could I leave? It's just too. good. After all, it's what has gotten me to this point! I'll be attending these classes 1-2 times per week to fill out my schedule...and to keep my legs and butt looking toned (PB has done wonders here!). This is also great for some weight training. 

So, that's my new routine and we'll see how it works this month. It's all about switching it up to really challenge the body...and to have fun without getting bored with a workout. See you back here next week...maybe two pounds lighter? ;)

P.S. Congrats to Lauren H. for winning the Pure Barre 3-class package! Time to lift, tone & burn, girl! Xoxo 

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Trimdown Thursday: My Pure Barre Results (& giveaway!)

Well here it is, y'all! I absolutely can't believe it. It's been a full 14 weeks since I started my baby bounceback with Pure Barre and I'm SOLD. You'll never get a better, more intense, group workout that's both fun with fast results like you will Pure Barre.

I started my journey April 1 and the last class in my package was Tuesday. But I'm not going anywhere! While I've lost over 40 pounds since I had baby L, I've still got 15 to go. (Insert bashful face here.) That means I'm not leaving the barre by any means! In fact, I'm slightly addicted to the whole lift, tone and burn thing. My legs are feeling ah-mazing. I've officially lost 20 pounds since I started Pure Barre a few months ago. But besides the weight, my body is shaped so much better...I see definition that makes me excited!

Here's a little before shot and where I am today. I'm wearing a super-sweet Flutter Dress (in pink) from Au Lait, which just so happens to be the cutest shop with a very tightly edited, chic line-up of nursing wear that's so completely classic. Love. 

And while I have been wearing a lot of dresses (this dress didn't even fit last month!), today I fit into a pair of my jeans (that weren't boxy boyfriend). Such a good feeling. I must add that besides PB I've been watching my diet with Weight Watchers (they have a nursing moms program that adds points) and doing cardio on the side with brisk stroller walks and jogs around my neighborhood about four times per week. 

I can't thank the ladies at Pure Barre enough for all the instruction and encouragement they've provided me the past three months. They are just so awesome! So now, drumroll, please. 

If you're local to Little Rock, I'm giving away a three-class package* to one lucky winner! To enter, complete the tasks in the box below. I'll choose a winner next week! 

Thanks for following along on my Pure Barre journey. While my PB coverage is going away, Trimdown Thursdays will remain. I can't wait to continue to share with you my latest workout gear and new routine (that still includes PB) as we enter the second half of the summer. September fashion week, here I come!!

*must use package within 14 days. new clients only.

Disclaimer: I'm not a doctor, so please consult yours before starting any new diet or exercise plan. I was not compensated for this post, but was provided the PB Baby Bounceback Package for the purpose of my reviews. All opinions, as always, are my own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Trimdown Thursday: Barre at the Beach

Ok, so first of all, can I let you in on a secret and tell you I've recently discovered blogging on my iPhone...and it is life-changing! So much better than the iPad because I'm way better at texting (which is essentially what I'm doing here) than typing quickly on the iPad. Now that we've addressed my no-time factor (eek!), let's get moving with this week's (week 13!) Trimdown Thursday...barre at the beach!

As you know, last week I was lifting, toning and burning on vacay at the Pure Barre Santa 
Rosa location in Watercolor, Florida. What a way to make a workout even more fun! I was so excited when I found out this locale was just a short, 20-minute drive down scenic highway 30-A from our beach cottage. In fact, I've been frequenting the grocery store adjacent to it for years and never realized PB was there! Trust me when I say it is the cutest. I mean, how cliche but someone had even parked their bike outside it when I arrived. Eek!

This locale obviously caters to a lot of women on vacay as I could tell I wasn't the only new face visiting. And as you can tell from the sign, Julia was my instructor. :) She was great! She went over everything quickly before class to

explain the class format and some of the technique. I loved her style and how she moved quickly through the class but still walked around to correct things when needed. And she was so positive, telling us we did a great job, and she remained completely unshaken when the building alarm decided to go off during abs! :) (don't worry, it was nothing)

Silly me had grabbed a two-pound and a three-pound weight for warm-up, and Julia gladly grabbed me the right one in the midst of it all. The locale itself was much smaller than the Little Rock one I'm used to (the lobby is actually tiny, but so cute!), and it was really cool to see how it compares to the one I'm used to. 

To be honest, I was supposed to attend three times that week, but ended up going once. (Bashful face.) One night we had family photos on the beach, and the other morning I was just so exhausted from the sun. Oh well! I had to align my priorities for the week, and I knew missing a couple classes wouldn't get me too far behind.

When I returned home, I hadn't gained or lost, so I was pretty proud of myself (considering we stayed directly across from an Orange Leaf!). This week, I'm back in LR and happy to get my body back on track. After all, I've got tons of

clothes to fit into for fashion week in just a couple of months...eek!

Come back next week for a big giveaway and to read (& see!) all my results!! Xoxoxo 

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Trimdown Thursday: Friends at the Barre (Week 12!)

It's week 12 of bouncing back after baby at Pure Barre and y'all, I feel fantastic!! Even one of my instructors commented this week how I'm looking so good! (I've now lost almost 20 pounds from PB!)  But besides looking slimmer, I'm feeling so strong and every time I finish 

class I have those awesome feel-good endorphins, which is nice after a full day of being 

home with both kids (insert stress here). 

Since I'm actually at the beach this week (at Pure Barre Santa Rosa, too! More on that next week...), I didn't wanna leave you hanging but found it appropriate to mention how much fun Pure Barre can be with friends...and how the instructors feel like friends, too! 

The photo above is me with my instructor, E. I have lots of teachers, but she is generally who I take from the most, and taught me my first class after baby! ALL of the instructors are amazing at my local Pure Barre because they take the time to chat with you before and after class. They honestly care how you're feeling and doing. The past week my lower back has been bothering me (chiropractor fixed that!), and I mentioned to instructor L. before class. She was able to tell me exactly any modifications I might need (mostly the plank and ab work). After one week of modifying, I'm back to normal this week!

I'm now out of black tees every class and trying to liven things up in brighter colors...it is summer after all! And feeling good in my clothes makes me feel that much better when I work out! Does it do that to you? As much as I like to shop, I don't discriminate in what I buy, either. Workout clothes are super fun to buy, especially the smaller and smaller I get!

The bottom photo is me with my BFF L. We met in college at 18 and have been friends for nearly 15 years now. She actually had a second baby last September. Doesn't she look amazing?? While she works full-time and I stay at home, we've found coming together on the weekends at the barre is a great way to hang out lately. It makes working out so much more fun!

I hope you all have a great weekend, and I'll see you back here for a recap of my Pure Barre at the beach! Ahhhhhh...

Disclaimer: I'm not a doctor, so please consult yours before starting any new diet or exercise plan. I was not compensated for this post, but was provided the PB Baby Bounceback Package for the purpose of my reviews. All opinions, as always, are my own.

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