Neons In Spring -- Friday Favorites

Since I can't stop thinking about nicer weather I wanted to share some of my favorite photos from last Spring. I also have some great picks that I listed on the bottom of this post. This upcoming Spring I am loving bright colors and different patterns. I really love the neon colors popping up everything and I really, really love the "boho" look that is being styled into dresses. Anything that is off the shoulder, floral patterned, maxi with a flowing material sounds pretty perfect to me.

I am really excited to be leaving for Texas next weekend and can't wait for a taste for the warmer temperatures. Here's a glimpse into some picks for Spring, and some of my favorite photos from last year!

Birkenstock Sandal // Medium Nylon Tote Marc Jacobs // Nude Platform Sandal // Boho Your Own Way Jumpsuit // Skylie Pendant Necklace in Iridescent // Karen Walker Starburst Sunnies // One Teaspoon Shorts // Hair Clip Set // Dapper Keeper Set 

Friday Favorites

Details: Clare V Leopard Clutch // Tell Tale Tunic Dress Free People // Redlands Sandals // Chasing you Pullover // Marc Jacobs Watch // Kate Spade Letter Pendant // Karen Walker Super Duper Sunglasses // Blank Denim Cutoff Shorts // DKNY Slip Ons // Eat Cake For Breakfast Phone Case // Statement Knuckle Ring 

A Very Special Valentine's Day & Giveaway With Marshalls

I have decided that this week is going to be a big week for celebrating love and Valentine's Day on the blog. I have recipes lined up, and some fun outfit posts that I can't wait to share. To kick off this week of love I have an awesome giveaway for a $25 gift card from Marshalls!Because who doesn't love shopping, and who doesn't love Marshalls? Am I right?

I also wanted to share a little Valentine's Day gift I got for my Mom. Her birthday falls right before Valentine's Day so I love to use this week to shower her with her favorite things. She loves Marshalls as much as I do, so it's always a win-win when I shop there for her. I picked out some things that remind me of her style, but also some things she uses daily. I put together this basket full of some of her favorite things.

This includes her favorite chocolate, a pair of Italian leather booties, soap, cozy socks, note cards, a beautiful scarf, and an equestrian vest (Isn't it adorable?)  Included in here are some other snapshots of her birthday presents, that are also from Marshalls. I found this gorgeous wallet, and knew she'd love it. I also got a big photo album to fill with photos from our summer vacation.

I think Valentine's Day can be about anyone in your life. A lot of my single girlfriends dread at the thought of the day being a lonely-singles-awareness day. I think of it as a chance to love those that mean the most to you. That can be a friend, a pet, a family member, etc. The great thing about a place like Marshalls is you can get anything for anyone in your life. There's no limits to the gift giving. I can shop for anyone at the same time-while getting the best prices possible.

Shop similar wallets below: 

Now, onto the giveaway, which I know you guys are all anticipating! Enter below, and good luck! Follow me more on instagram to see my daily picks and fab finds!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Work It Out

If any of you follow me on instagram, you know that I am taking part in a workout challenge for the next two months. I worked really hard on building a healthy lifestyle, and at this point, I don't think it would ever change. This challenge is a two month workout routine that changes weekly and utilizes different exercises daily. 

So far I have seen a significant difference in my waistline, as well as my energy levels and overall mood. I have been waking up with a different attitude, and my healthy eating has been on point. What motivates me daily is the changes I am seeing, as well as the strength I am gaining. 

Nothing is better than feeling good in your own skin, and every person (male or female) deserves to feel good about themselves. The first few weeks were tough, and now as I near week 3 it's becoming more of a daily routine. I feel healthier than I have in over a year, and I am starting to see changes in my body.

I love to spice up my workout outfits, and again if you follow me on instagram, you'll see a glimpse of that here and there. My pants are usually all kinds of crazy patterns, paired with my Nike Air Max 90's (working on getting my third pair!). I have built my collection of workout clothes because I spend almost every day at the gym, so my attire is important. I want to feel motivated & confident in what I wear, and gym wear is no different.

People usually ask me where I get most of my gym clothes from, so I decided to pick some of my favorite items at the moment. My go-to brands are Lululemon & Nike, but sometimes I will find a random shirt that is low cut on the sides to fit comfortably with a sports bra. This shirt is from Buy Me Brunch, and it is one of my favorites. I love the material, and it's perfect for leg day! :)

Here are some of my favorite picks from Nike & Lululemon below!

What are your favorite brands?

Valentine's Day Gift Guide For Your Sweetheart

I know most people think that Valentine's Day is a tacky-hallmark holiday (and maybe it is) but there's always a reason to make the ones in our lives feel special, and any day that stands for LOVE is good in my book. I put together a cute little red & pink gift guide for those hunting for their loved ones. I'll be making a gift guide for the fellas as well (so no one feels left out!) Just hover, and click on the little squares for direct links to these products!

I am excited to celebrate my first Valentine's Day with my man this year and I think what is most important about this day is that it serves as a reminder to tell people in our lives how much we love them. To buy a special card and write a little something for them. It may after all be a hallmark holiday, but it can still be great for those who aren't in a relationship. Think of it as a time to go out with your favorite girlfriends, or to send a family member a little bit of happiness and love. Who are you going to be celebrating with this year?

Making "Me" Time With My Favorite Magazines

This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and PEOPLE®, PEOPLE StyleWatch® but all my opinions are my own. #PMedia #NewYearMeTime  http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV

I think the most important thing that happens after the holidays for most of us is figuring out our goals, and redirecting our bad habits. For me, the new year provides a chance for a new set of inspiration and rebalancing my life. I find that a great deal of my inspiration comes right after the holidays and into the new year. I find my inspiration through the things around me, and this includes magazines, books, and of course pop culture. 

For as long as I can remember, I have turned to magazines for instant inspiration and motivation. Don't know what outfit to wear? gotta check my favorite magazines. Lost on what to make for dinner tonight? Quick and easy recipes, are in my favorite magazines. Who's wearing what, and who lost all that weight with a new fitness program...gotta check my magazines! I am pretty old school when it comes to the internet, as funny as that sounds. I would much rather read something and hold it in my hands, rather than browse through my phone or computer.

It's safe to say that this has been something I have done for years. It changed slightly when I started blogging, but overall I still have the same quirks. Two of my favorite magazines are PEOPLE® and PEOPLE StyleWatch®.  In January's edition of PEOPLE® I really loved their recipe section. Not only do they have recipes, they also have a section dedicated to throwing get togethers, and picking out the best decor for your home. These are all things I am always wanting to try, so I love their "Great Ideas" section. 

PEOPLE StyleWatch® is for the blogger in me. Sometimes the internet becomes too overwhelming for me, and I need separate time to devote to staying inspired. I like thinking outside the box and sometimes that includes gaining inspiration through celebrities, and of course seeing what's in right now as far as trends and style setters. This magazine is perfect for me when it comes to style inspiration. They really focus on trends while making sure the prices are perfect for any budget. Their sections help you make the perfect choice, and they collage everything so beautifully. They also spotlight celebrity style (this month is Taylor Swift) and show you how you can mimic specific outfits or trends the celebrity is wearing during certain times. 

For my two magazines I shopped at Walmart, and right now you can save $1 with this digital coupon available 1/14/15-2/16/15 (while supplies last). This coupon includes PEOPLE®, InStyle®, PEOPLE StyleWatch®, All You®, or Real Simple® magazine. 

What do you guys do to stay inspired, or gain any kind of inspiration in your own life? This year is focused around my goals and finding inspiration to make this happen. Making sure I have time to myself is become a number one priority nowadays. This includes making time for fitness, but also taking the time to prioritize my daily to-do's. We all need time to do the things we love, so it's important to make time!

Lulus Party Perfect For The New Year

When the New Year is upon us, I can't help but think of the perfect dress for the perfect occasion. I was never one to go out and go crazy, but the past few years I have had a blast going out dancing with my friends. I love the idea of a classy black bodycon dress, and lately I have been obsessed with back details in dresses. This dress is perfect for a night out on the town, and i love how it accentuates my waistline perfectly.

 Details: Be All Trend All Backless Midi // Elsie Black Single Strap Heels courtesy of Lulus

Update To My Workout Story & My Fitness Fanatic Gift Guide

This post is part gift guide part update on my workout story. I started fully working out 4-5 days a week approximately a year and a half ago. In my progress I lost 13 pounds, as well as gained a great deal of muscle in various parts of my body. Besides the obvious body changes, I feel so different. Mentally I am more at ease when I know I can make it to the gym. Physically I feel stronger and more motivated. As a whole I have found myself being extremely motivated to become stronger and work harder towards my goals.

Although I have had great progress so far, I have had my highs and lows. Some weeks I have no energy, and on the busier weeks sometimes I don't get into the gym as often as I would like. Throw in the holidays and I find myself smuggling cookies and sweets here and there. I am not sharing these stories for pity, but more to show that sometimes life happens. Sometimes you eat cheat meals more than twice a week, sometimes you want to eat a french fry, or a whole plate of them. And sometimes, your body needs a break. I gave myself a week break because I could tell my body needed it. I was feeling weak, and tired, and close to exhaustion. I was forcing myself to go, and then I realized maybe my body was trying to tell me something. The break I took, was exactly what I needed. I came back stronger and more motivated than before, and I am so happy I did. We all fall off kilter sometimes, but the important thing is to motivate yourself even when things seem hard or you're having a hard day.

Shop the perfect workout outfit!

Since this post is focusing on working out , I also wanted to incorporate a little gift guide for those who are looking for new workout clothes/accessories. Here are my PERSONAL choices. I have a full workout wardrobe since I spend a lot of time in the gym, and I picked my favorite pieces to share with you guys. I really love all of these brands & clothing options, and they make my gym experience a better one. Plus, the new year is on the way and we all need a pick me up, so what's better than working out with some new gear? The confidence and comfort will go hand in hand.

Some favorites!

Celebrating The Holidays With Marshalls

For years and years I have dreamed of decorating my own house for the holidays. I got to do it for the first time last year, but since I had just moved in, everything happened rather quickly and I didn't get to decorate fully. This year I went all out. Our tree looks bigger than last year, I have more ornaments adorning it as well as a new set of chotskies. I love shopping at Marshalls for all my decorating needs because I know they'll have everything for half the price of the department stores. Being a girl on a budget means spending sparingly, and Marshalls allows me to do that without sacrificing my vintage style.

Some friends of mine started telling us about a tradition they have every year, and it made me want to start our own. I found these two beautiful nutcrackers, and I thought to myself that maybe that would be a fun collection. I haven't made a full commitment to that yet, but we'll see what happens next year. This was also the first year I had lights outside, and we also got two light up dachshunds that are absolutely adorable! Ollie is represented to the fullest in this household, even more so during the holidays.

Some of my other favorite pieces are this antique inspired rocking horse & toy plane. I love this collection of home decor from Marshalls as it doubles as Christmas decor but also regular home decor. The colors and distress on them is perfect and reminds me of something straight out of an antique store. Of course our home wouldn't be complete without my favorite snow globe. 

After watching the movie "The Santa Claus" with Tim Allen, I have been obsessed with snow globes. This one is rather unique, and sits high on a black stand. Maybe I should start collecting snow globes instead? Something to think about.

As Christmas approaches I am happy, but also a little bit sad. These decorations fill the house with so much warmth and love, part of me is sad to see them go. This is after all, the most magical time of the year, and the decorations, wrapping paper and lights just add the perfect touch.

Have you decorated your home this year? If so, what's your favorite piece?

The Perfect Men's Gift Guide

Since I mainly focus on women's clothes, I wanted to give a little shout out to the guys this holiday season! Don't know what to get that special man in your life? Here's my small, but awesome gift guide. I feel like men are so much easier to shop for. I think because they require a lot less fluff, and a lot more things that are staples in their closet.

Have you shopped for that special someone in your life yet? 

1. Urbanears Headphones

2. Buckhorn Fair Isle Socks

3. Herschel Wallet

4. Cashmere Scarf

5. Nike Running Shoe

6. Flannel Brush Shirt 

7. Round Leather Burberry Watch

8. Silver Hook Bracelet

Secret Santa

One of my favorite parts of the holidays is picking out gifts for people in my life. When Marshalls told the group of project fab bloggers that we had the opportunity to shop for eachother, I was over the moon excited! It's rare that you get to ship someone a surprise gift, especially someone that you've never met! I peeked her blog and social media sites like crazy trying to figure out what would be perfect for her, and then I hit the store on a mission!

I tried to think of things I love during the holidays, and then tried to incorporate that into what my blogger recipient likes. I know nothing soothes me during the winter months like a cup of tea/cocoa, hence the festive mug. I also know that I love being warm & cozy, and that's where the festive poncho comes in to play. (Which by the way- I bought the same one!) Finally I picked out two food items that scream holidays-- peppermint and cinnamon! I thought the presentation of these two food items was so cute, and since my blogger recipient loves to cook-I knew it would be perfect! 

If you'd like to see who I shopped for, you can visit Alyssa's blog, here. A few days after shipping her gift out, I received mine. The awesome thing about Marshalls is that no matter who you're shopping for, you can find the right thing for anyone on your list. 

It's pretty awesome when you can purchase everything under one roof, and what's even better is that they also have wrapping paper & ribbons! I had such a blast shopping, and this Christmas Ever we're doing another Secret Santa. I can't wait to play Santa again, and I definitely know where I'll be going for #TheBestGiftEver! Happy Shopping everyone! Make sure you stop by a nearby Marshalls to shop for someone special in your life.