Star Spangled Kids

I definitely have not taken formal pictures of Jack sporting his red, white and blue duds, but when I saw this fun Link-Up hosted by Kristy, Vanessa, Natalie, Erin and Liz, I knew I had enough pics in my iPhone to participate!  We love red, white and blue in our house - especially being from good 'ole Texas!  

Just by scrolling my phone, I realized we may have a red, white and blue problem, but that's okay.  It's classic and makes for great mix and match throughout the summer!

I linked everything I could find online for ya - a lot of which is now on sale!  And no, I don't use affiliate links, so I'm not making any money off of these links...just wanted to be helpful for you.  

 

Gymboree Patriotic Pup Tee - Gymboree Pull-On Plaid Cargo Shorts - Navy Natives 

Jack wore this outfit yesterday on our trip home from Colorado.  It looked nice, but is so comfy for him...I knew he needed comfort for a long day of car rides and flying.  Look at those rosy cheeks!

 Gymboree Striped V-Neck Tee - Old Navy Shorts - Stride Rite Sneaker

Terrible picture of Jack who had just realized his love of chocolate pudding...and yes, we have an obsession with stuffed marine animals who appear to be dead in this picture. 

Flag Tee from Target {can't find online} - Old Navy Shorts

Hanna Andersson always comes through on the holiday pajamas that are so comfy and last forever.  We are still rocking the Christmas ones too!

Hanna Andersson Pajamas

And these summer PJ's will get lots of wear this weekend when we go to the beach house!

Monogrammed Summer PJ's by Two Magnolia Lane

Thank you ladies for hosting this fun linkup!  I'm looking forward to meeting some new bloggers who share my love for dressing our kiddos in RW&B! 

Thoughts for Thursday: 21 Day Fix Update

I am currently on Day 18 of the 21 Day Fix (first cycle).  I haven't followed it perfectly the whole time, but that's life.  I am proud of myself that when I have "fallen off the wagon" I jump right back on. 

#chelseas21dayfix on Instagram {@chelseapurifoy}

Yesterday was a long day.  I worked all day, got home at 6pm, played with Jack and made dinner.  After dinner did the whole bedtime routine only to have to do it a second time because he threw up all over himself  and his bed (and me) when I put him down to sleep.  After cleaning the kitchen and doing some laundry I had a conference call for Houston Moms Blog until 10:30, followed by some food prep for the next day.  By 11pm I hadn't done either one of my 30 minute workouts (it's only 30 minutes per day, but I missed the day before).  I powered through and worked out from 11pm-12am and was asleep by 1am after winding down. 

Obviously this can't be done every single day, but my whole point is to say that it can be done if you make it a priority.  The old Chelsea would have curled up in bed with a book and some chocolate after that conference call at 10:30 and "rewarded" myself for a long day. 

My reward came today when I woke up feeling sore, but good and down a pound with some extra room in my previously tight pants. 

One of the biggest factors in my success has been my Beachbody Coach Emily and online 21 Day Fix Group she created (and by group, it's just me and one other person - ha)! This is just a private Facebook group that we are in where we check-in daily with our progress, struggles, or funny moments.  We started on the exact same day so we are always on the same DVD together.  When I feel like I can skip a day or take the week off since things are crazy, I think about these 2 gals and keep going. 

I know everyone has different motivators, but mine has been being accountable and not letting my coach or challenge buddy down...I am a people pleaser to the core!

I am now signed up to be a "coach" (aka seller) of all Beachbody products including 21 Day Fix, T25, Insanity, Shakeology and the upcoming and much anticipated PiYo Workout (I'm leaning towards starting this one next...it looks like it will be very similar to Pure Barre/Define type, low-impact workouts!

I would love to start a group online and start one of these programs together to cheer each other on.  I won't know what to do with myself when these 21 days come to an end on Monday! 

Leave a comment if you might be interested in getting more info! 

--

Also, head over to Houston Moms Blog to read about the new Doonya Workout DVD's I recently tried and enter to win the amazing giveaway!

 

Thank you Annie and Natalie for hosting this link-up today!

Mid Week Muse: Loft

Loft is a go-to place for me because all of the pieces are at a great price point for my life right now and it's a one-stop shop for both work attire and more casual weekend wear.  I haven't been in a couple of months, but was drawn back into the website today when Kendi of Kendi Everyday was rocking this Chambray Romper in her latest OOTD. 

How cute is this!  I love that you will be able to dress this up or down with shoes and jewelry.  It will also be cool for the hot summer days.  See how Kendi styled it here. 

Other items I noticed while I was browsing the site include:

Multi Striped Crossover Dress

 

Charm Print Sleeveless Shirt Dress

 

 

Striped Cutout Tie Waist Dress

 

 

Chevron Stripe Crossover Dress

Can you tell I like easy, breezy dresses in the summer time.  Dresses that tie or are cut at the waist tend to flatter my curvy body best.  I usually prefer a V or Scoop neck also. 

Anything you are loving from Loft lately? 

Thanks to Ann Elliott and Pampers & Pearls for hosting this weekly linkup!

 

 

Christmas Pajama Party

 

I'm linking up today with Darci, Julie, Ashley, Jenny, and Natasha for a little Christmas Pajama Party!

Just as I did with the Halloween Pajama Party, I may have gone a little overboard.  I warned you that I would!  We just love our cozy holiday pj's.  I am one tired mama today working on only a few hours of sleep two nights in a row with a fussy little teether.  It got so bad last night that I took Jack to the doctor this morning to make sure it wasn't anything serious.  I'm back at work today, but tired and super cranky.  Where is my I'm So Tired Sweatshirt from Hello Apparel when you need it??? 

Luckily I snapped some cute photos of Jack in between cry fits the past few days.

Don't miss the outtakes {real life} at the bottom of the post!

 

Red "My First Christmas" PJ's from Macy's - On sale here!

 

PJ's from Macy's - On sale here!
Blanket from Pottery Barn Kids

Footed Fleece PJ's from Gap (sold out online)
Jellycat Reindeer c/o More Than You Can Imagine
Pillow from Pottery Barn Kids (om sale)!

Reindeer PJ's from Target (Carter's brand - not available online)

Crib sheet from Pottery Barn Kids (sold out online, but some stores carry)

 

 

Santa Footed PJ's from Carter's - on sale! (these have the cutest santa feet that keep Jack very entertained)
PJ + Toy = Happy Mom

 

Even the doctor loved Jack's holiday PJ's this morning.  Now this is real life folks!

Red hat from Gap

 

 

Watching Tucker is much more fun than posing

 

Merry Christmas!!!  Ho, ho, ho.

All I want for Christmas is 8 hours of sleep.  And a new Louis Vuitton...

At this point I think it's more realistic that I'll get the LV, which trust me, isn't in my future either...

Maybe if I quite spending all my money on holiday PJ's...

 

Five on Friday

Hello lovelies and Happy Friday.  I've being going through this week just trying to survive.  We had a great Thanksgiving and trip to see Jason's family.  Unfortunately we came home with a sick baby which was pitiful since he has never really been sick like that before.  Work is crazy and I'm hyperventilating that we are majorly into December and the shopping days are ticking away!

My goal is to get some presents wrapped and under the tree this weekend so I will feel a little better.  Hope you have a great weekend and stay warm!

--ONE--

How was your Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday?  I took advantage of a few online deals for Christmas gifts on Monday.  Since we were out of town I didn't get any shopping done on Black Friday - out or online...except for this sweatshirt from Hello Apparel.  At 50% off and free shipping, the deal on Instagram and was too good to pass up.  I purchased it on my phone while nursing...boy how I get myself into trouble!

 

This will likely be my uniform leading up to Christmas paired with skinnies, tall boots and gold jewelry. 

--TWO--

Bad news: I lost my phone this week.  I'm 99% sure I left it on the roof of my mom's car when I was installing a car seat for her.  Good news:  I upgraded to a new iPhone 5s in gold and loving it. 

--THREE--

The Purifoy household is officially decorated for the season (except the outside...who knew Christmas light stakes for the ground would be so hard to come by), Jack's room included.  Perhaps I've gone a little overboard this year, but I don't care.  Be sure to check out Houston Moms Blog early next week to learn more about the advent calendar I hung in Jack's room. 

We need to upgrade next year from our skinny "apartment" tree, but it works for now and looks pretty from the window outside.

"Just Because" flowers from Jason this week

--FOUR--

Our Christmas cards arrived yesterday so I'm hoping to get them addressed and in the mail by Monday!  Here is a sneak peek from the photos we took.  For the card we went in the opposite direction of your typical "perfect smiling family" picture!  I'll post it once the cards have it the mail.

--FIVE--

I'm blogging over at Houston Moms Blog today about ways to give back during the Christmas Season.  Some of the post is Houston specific, but most of it is pertinent to anyone!

...And I'm Also Thankful For

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!  I hope you enjoy your special day tomorrow with your family, friends, computer for online shopping or just some quiet time alone.  We will be spending the next few days with family. 

Heather and Amber are hosting a great link-up today about what we are also thankful for.  The obvious ones being our friends and family.  You all know I am so incredibly thankful for my precious son, husband, pup, mommy and all of my family and friends. 

 

This year, I'm also thankful for:

 

• My neighborhood Starbucks...even though I'm mostly drinking Decaf these days, it give me an emotional boost when I'm tired or cranky.  Plus the baristas are quickly becoming my new friends even noticing little haircuts or changes in my makeup when no one else does. 
• Target...why is this store so perfect when Jack and I need to get out of the house, but have no place to go
• My home and neighborhood...I just get happy every day when I drive into my neighborhood.  I feel like it's exactly where Jason and I are supposed to be
• Ugg slippers...just go try some on and you will understand. 
• Houston Moms Blog...what an amazing community of friends I am so blessed to be a part of!  Be sure and check out our post tomorrow about everything we are thankful for. 
• My little bloggy community...I talk about all of you as if we are real life friends that I've met.  I love "seeing" you on the blog and instagram everyday even if we are miles away!
• The Internet...how would I get my Christmas shopping done this year without it (among many other things)
• Studio Ainsley Photography...several people have mentioned that I may have a problem with professional photo sessions and my son.  My response?  Why yes I do now let's move on. 
• Stretchy and curvy jeans from Loft...my post pregnancy, busy, lazy (oxymoron) body is thankful for you. 
• Instagram...my current social media obsession and how I've survived nursing.  Follow me @ChelseaPurifoy

What are you also thankful for this year? 

 

What's In Your Bag?

Ashley and I are so excited to share what's in our bags with you today!   I opted to show you what's in my diaper bag as I often use it for my purse so I'm not constantly switching bags.  This is why it was so important for me to find a diaper bag that looked like a purse and didn't scream MOMMY.  I didn't want to run out the door to a work meeting with a bright, floral backpack.  It's hard enough being taken seriously sometimes in the male dominated industry I'm in.  I don't need cutesy things drawing attention to my gender!    

Bag Details: Burberry Diaper Tote Bag

I love this bag for so many reasons.  I love that it doesn't scream diaper bag!  The material is nylon so it is all wipeable and easy to clean, but the straps, and bottom are durable, real leather.  I use the two shoulder straps, but that bag also comes with a detachable long cross-body strap.  It comes with a removable changing mat and has lots of compartments to be organized including 2 great side compartments. 

I was very adamant about finding a tote because I love that you have easy access to grab anything out of the bag without worrying about flaps, zippers and clasps (although there is a zipper on this bag if you want).  I'm used to carrying this bag as my purse so I knew I would love this style.

For Mommy:

• Sunglasses
• Wallet (Kate Spade Outlet): similar here
• Small Makeup Bag for essentials only like powder, lipstick and Chapstick 
• Pen
• Nursing Cover
• BabyGanics Hand Sanitizer - love that this stuff is alcohol free
• iPhone
• Optional (Items that I throw in only when needed): Business or Mommy Cards, Camera, iPad

For Baby:

• Diapers (I use Pampers Swaddlers)
• Wipes galore: Pampers Sensitive, Boogie Wipes, Johnson & Johnson Hand and Face Wipes, Pacifier Wipes...can you tell I'm a new mom!  Really the two most necessary are the Hand & Face Wipes and the Pampers wipes. 
• Diaper Rash Cream - I use Dr. Smith's
• Teethers:  Sophie and Life Factory
• Toys:  Jellycat Cordy Roy Gator (small), Angel Dear Lovie, Oball, Crinkle
• Burp Cloths - I love the Aden + Anais Burpy Bibs
• Change of clothes
• Hoodie
• Pacifiers: a WabbaNub add an extra Soothie
• Diaper baggies
• Optional (items I throw in only when needed):  Nosefrida Nasal Aspirator, Saline Nose Drops, Tylenol, Swaddle Blanket, Shopping Cart/Highchair Cover

  Now it's your turn!  1.  Write a post showing us what's in your bag...purse, diaper, makeup bag: anything! 2.  Grab a button (below) and link back to both of our blogs 3.  Add your blog to the list below 4.  Visit everyone's post and leave comments to make new friends 5.  Join the conversation on Twitter and Instaqram using #whatsinyourbag   <a href="http://www.ashleyandwentzel.blogspot.com"><img border="0" src="http://i532.photobucket.com/albums/ee323/abouwer/LinkUp300_zpsc303d5cb.png" height="150" width="150"/></a>  

Wednesday Wishlist: Workout Gear

 

In honor of me getting my post baby body back on track {this morning at 5:30 a.m. to be exact @ Pure Barre}, I'm wishing for new workout gear today. 

 

 

Top Row:

• Forme Jacket - Great jacket to wear over your workout tanks.  Mama has to hide those post-pregnancy rolls when out in public!  I love the long arms, cuffins and lots of stretch. 
• Ta Ta TamerII - I've never needed a "high support" bra until now since I'm nursing.  Much needed. 
• Wunder Under Crop - If you have never worn Lululemon, this is a great item to start with.  They feel amazing and hold you in.  I wear these all the time around the house..even when not working out. 

Middle Row: 

• Modern Racerback - these tanks are awesome.  I own several and love how long they are.  You will never worry about your shirt coming up when doing different yoga poses
• Bang Buster Headband - I haven't tried this headband yet, but have heard awesome things
• No Limits Tank - these tanks are super comfy and very forgiving

Bottom Row:

• Heart Opener Tank - this tank looks cute and would be easy to nurse in post workout
• Studio Starre Sock - perfect sock for barre method classes!  I love that when you fold them over they say "Feel the Burn" and "Nice Shaking".  Perfect stocking stuffer Jason!
• Pure Balance Sweater - A comfy item to throw on before and after the gym

 

What do you like to wear to workout? 

 

P.S.  Come back tomorrow for the What's in Your Bag Link-Up Party!

Link Up Reminder

Happy Monday everyone!  I hope you had a great weekend.  We didn't have much going on, but then ended up being busy and exhausted by Sunday night.  Funny how that works.  I'm super excited that at church yesterday our pastor asked if Jack would play Jesus in this year's Christmas Pageant!  Jesus will just have to be a very big newborn this year. 

 

Don't forget to join me and Ashley on Thursday for the What's in Your Bag link up.  Dump out those purses or diaper bags and show us what's inside {and show us your great bags too}!  We will have the linkup posted on Thursday, November 21 at 7:00 am. CST.  Don't forget to grab the button below for your post.  See you then!

  <a <span style="background: yellow;" class="goog-spellcheck-word">href</span>="http://www.<span style="background: yellow;" class="goog-spellcheck-word">ashleyandwentzel</span>.<span style="background: yellow;" class="goog-spellcheck-word">blogspot</span>.com"><<span style="background: yellow;" class="goog-spellcheck-word">img</span> border="0" <span style="background: yellow;" class="goog-spellcheck-word">src</span>="http://i532.<span style="background: yellow;" class="goog-spellcheck-word">photobucket</span>.com/albums/ee323/<span style="background: yellow;" class="goog-spellcheck-word">abouwer</span>/LinkUp300_zpsc303d5cb.<span style="background: yellow;" class="goog-spellcheck-word">png</span>" height="150" width="150"/></a>

Favorite Things Under $10 - Winter Edition

I'm linking up today with Andrea and Erika  to share our favorite things under $10.00.  This is a great idea to remind each other that you don't have to spend a fortune this holiday season to give a fabulous gift. 

Just imagine curling up on your favorite chair next to a fire with these items...heaven!

-  Homegrown Monogram Mug, $8
-  Cozy Socks, $6.99
-  ChapStick Hydration Lock, $2.99 - Vanilla Creme
-  Starbucks Holiday Drink {under $5 for a grande} or give a $10 giftcard for a gift!
-  InStyle Magazine {under $5 for 1 magazine in store, or under $20 to give a 1 year subscription}

These items would make stocking stuffers by themselves or all paired together for a great "cozy day" giftset.  Be sure and check out Ashley's favorite things...more things I love that make great gifts under $10.