Catching Up :: Busy, Busy

Hey everyone!  I'm doing the worst thing that any blogger can ever do and that's go radio silent!  It was not my intention, but phew I've been busy.  Same story, different day!  But I've been busy for good reasons....

Busy with my family...Jack is making awesome progress with potty-training and Colin has just started crawling everywhere!  Those two things alone are reason enough to be quiet on the blog front.

Busy with Rodan + Fields...I started this little side biz at the end of April and it's just taken off from there.  Not only am I in love with the products for myself, but I love my team of women who are so encouraging and seriously going places.  I've even added an amazing new consultant under me and I'm looking for more!  We are making great money, earning fun little incentives and having a blast doing it!

Busy with Houston Moms Blog...read my latest post about my favorite picks at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale this year {thank you extra R+F income}!

Busy trying to be healthy...this month I jumped back into 21 Day Fix and I'm also getting back into a more consistent routine at Pure Barre.  I know weight loss is 90% diet, but when I'm working out, I'm more likely to eat better!

Busy celebrating...Jason snuck off for a little overnight "staycation" to celebrate our wedding anniversary {that was in May}!  We went to the Houstonian for a spa day at Trellis - my favorite spa in the entire world.  After getting into full-on relaxation mode, we had a great dinner and enjoyed a little night off of parenting.

Busy taking new pics...my R+F leader Meredith and I were lucky enough to take some fun new photos a few weeks ago at two epic mural walls in Houston with two up and coming photographers Stacy Anderson Photography {photo at top of post} and C. Wright Photography {below}!  It was super hot, but it sure was worth it.

And busy with Snapchat!  I know I'm late to the game, but I've seriously fallen in love with Snapchat this month. Instead of catching up on my favorite blogs at the end of the night, I find myself catching up on everyone's snaps!  I'm trying to get better about snapping myself.  Follow me {theperfectcatch}.  I just posted {a ton} of snaps this evening on my favorite Rodan + Fields products and my nighttime skincare routine including how to use the awesome AMP MD Roller!

Many of my items from the Nordstrom sale are starting to arrive eeekk!!! so I plan to pop back in this week and review what I've received and tried on!  Crazy how quickly things sold out this year and that's even as a cardholder myself with early access.

Talk soon!  Hope your week is off to a great start!

Sephora Wishlist

Tomorrow is the last day that Beauty Insiders can get 15% their entire purchase so of course I'm planning my shopping bag in my head.  Although I can't justify buying everything listed {or even close to it}, here are five items that I would love to try - all perfect for transitioning your look for spring and summer. 

 Benefit Cheekathon Blush & Bronzer Palette

I love Benefit's Hoola bronzer and Dallas blush, plus I've been wanting to try their Dandelion blush so why not get all of these in one plus two more colors - all are full size!  

Benefit Hoola Bronzing and Contouring Brush 

This item is actually sold out online currently but maybe they still have some in stores.  I need a better bronzer/contouring brush and this one looks fun! 

Burberry Eye Palette

This eye palette is stupid expensive, but I've just heard that Burberry shadows are amazing quality.  I own a few of the Urban Decay palettes that are $54 and honestly while you can justify the price in your head since it's a large palette with tons of colors, I only end up using a few of them.  It might be worth investing in a nicer palette that I truly love...plus this will take up less space and maybe I can do a palette clean out!  I have my eye on the Gold and the Mocha versions. 

NARS Hot Sand Illuminator

I've heard great things about this product from both personal friends and bloggers.  Most people mix this with their foundation for a glowy skin finish.  This seem perfect for spring and summer.  

YSL Lipstick

Another popular item that is getting a lot of buzz lately are these YSL lipsticks.  I have not tried them so I can't speak about the formulation, but I've heard it's creamy and moisturizing with a lot of color payoff. 

What else should I add to my list?  

Have you shopped the sale yet?  

What did you score or plan to purchase?


And don't miss my post on Houston Moms Blog about doing a spring beauty refresh with both splurges and steals.

Why The Tory Burch Travel Flat is So Much Better Than the Reva

We've all seen the Tory Burch Reva Ballerina Flat - you know the black ballet flat with a metal medallion, usually gold at the toe.  I see them everywhere!  They are practically part of the uniform for the Junior League of Houston members.  I purchased a pair of these expensive flats a few years ago.  I'll admit that part of it was because it was the shoe and I wanted to be apart of the cool kid club, but I also thought the large gold logo made the shoe a bit dressier than your standard ballet flat and therefore perfect for the office or going out when you just aren't feeling a heel.

For $225 I would expect a lot out of a flat - comfort being at the top of the list.  It is a flat after all.  I expect a heel to be somewhat uncomfortable, but a flat needs to feel good.  That's why we are wearing them!

My Tory Burch Reva just never felt comfortable.  I assure you I purchased the correct size with help from a Nordstrom associate.  I gave myself plenty of time to break them in and even watched a handful of YouTube videos on how to effectively break them in.  I worked on these things like a twelve year old would break in their baseball glove.

So all that to say, they never really worked for me.  $225 lesson learned.

Fast forward to now, I heard that the Revas were redesigned so I gave them another shot as I'm always looking for a dressy flat.  I sized down as they suggested - nope.  I tried my true size - nope.  Size up?  Nope.  Nothing worked.  They were still stiff and just not working for me.

Enter the most helpful Nordstrom associate at the Houston Galleria who suggested I try the new Tory Burch Minnie Travel Flat.  I never gave them a second look because of the gathered heel - I/m usually not a fan and just assumed they would feel like the Reva.

I put them on my feet and they were like buttah.  The leather is so soft and there is extra cushion on the sole.  They are called a "travel flat" because they fold in half and come with a great travel bag.  Nice for ladies who like to start the day in heels, but want to carry flats in their purse just in case!  I don't own a pair of Tieks, but these remind me of those.  Chime in if you've tried both!

For sizing, I find them to be true to size.  I teeter between an 8 and 8.5, but more often an 8.  The size 8 was perfect in these.  The shoe will stretch a little bit (especially the heel) and they are supposed to mold to your feet.  I haven't had mine long enough to say anything about this.  

The travel flats are still expensive - the exact same price as Revas - but at least these look and feel good.  I love that they come in so many color choices.  I opted for nude (light oak leather) but would love to expand my collection with the gold metallic..or black...or navy!

My only complaint is that the logo is leather, matching the color of the flat.  I do love how subtle it is, but still think I prefer the shiny, metal look that dresses it up.  Other than that, these flats are perfect in my eyes. 

Have you had a chance to try these yet or are you a Reva fan?  Any other flats that you are a fan of?

Thoughts for Thursday :: New Work Wear from Loft

Right before I started back to work my mom and I had a shopping day to get a few new pieces for work.  Luckily I'm back into my old sizes so I didn't need that much post-baby, but it's always fun to grab a few new things...I felt like I was back to school shopping!  It makes going back to work a little more fun. 

Outfit #1

Flannel Blazer -  Floral Flounce Pocket Blouse - Essential Skinny Ankle Pant in Navy
Love everything about this outfit so much that I wore it on my first day back.  It's all comfortable and forgiving on a postpartum body.  If you can get your hands on the flannel blazer - which I think is now soldout online - buy it!  The longer length is great and it can be dressed up or down.

Outfit #2

 

Pinstripe Skinny Ankle Pant - Relaxed Swing Sweater 

OR Pinstripe Pant with White Crisp Tunic Softened Shirt & Cozy Open Cardigan
The vertical stripe pants are super flattering for us shorties!  If you like the J. Crew swing sweaters give this one a try since it has a better price point and comes in multiple colors.  It's super comfy too.

 Outfit #3

Utility Custom Stretch Pencil Skirt - Signature 3/4 Sleeve Sweater
This skirt is so flattering and comfortable.  It's a classic piece that can be paired with so much throughout any season.  I love mixing navy and black with silver jewelry and this sweater is really perfect.

Have you shopped Loft lately?  What were you most excited about?

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 I'm linking up today with Annie and Natalie today for Thoughts for Thursday. 

Five on Friday

Happy Friday everyone!  Last weekend my mom and I worked tirelessly to clean out both of my guest rooms {and totally emptying one out} to make room for Jack's new room.  It was truly exhausting, but I ended up with a huge stash of clothing that needs to find a new home - I'd love to sell the nicer pieces to make a little extra change for Coffee Bean's nursery.  Long story short - I'm hosting a "pop-up shop" in my home tomorrow for neighborhood ladies.  We aren't allowed to have garage sales plus it's far too hot.  Wish me luck - I think I'm crazy, but it's over 100 pieces so hopefully it will be worth it!

Between moving rooms and having to move offices at work I'm beat!  Therefore my Five on Friday will have to be short and sweet...

...and it's actually on Houston Moms Blog today about my top FIVE picks of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!

Hope you have a great weekend and make a little time for yourself.  I'm going to try and sneak away for a pedicure on Sunday!

P.S.  For all of you blardigan lovers out there, I've got news for you on this year's Anniversary Sale picks!  I just received mine in the mail and was rather disappointed!  I have more info on my Instagram @ChelseaPurifoy, but I promise to come back later today and add more pictures here on the blog.  Just out of time at the moment!   I also think I've used up my allotted number of times I'm allowed to say "blardigan" in one day. 

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Linking up:

Thoughts for Thursday :: Beautycounter Products and Why I Keep Ordering

I've mentioned Beautycounter products before, but haven't done a big review since using them for a few months now.  I was introduced to the products by a friend from church, but didn't give it much thought until my mom attended a party for it and learned more about the kids product line "Kids Counter".

Jack has had skin issues since he was a baby.  We've visited with a dermatologist, switched him to prescription lotions and creams and upgraded his body wash and shampoo to extra-sensitive, more high end brands.  The best one we found for him was the California Baby Eczema Shampoo and Body Wash.  It wasn't perfect (and very expensive) but it worked the best.

...until I tried the Beautycounter Kids line and fell in love!  My top five reasons for using it:

1.  No more skin issues for Jack
2.  Smells great
3.  A little goes a long way
4.  Easy ordering and fast shipping
5.  No harmful chemicals.  It even rated good on the "Think Dirty" app that rates products in terms of their ingredients.

I've tried and loved five products now from Beautycounter and will continue to use and order.

1.  Kids Counter Squeaky Clean Bodywash
2.  Kids Counter Nice Do Shampoo
3.  Protect All Over Sunscreen, SPF 30 :: awesome citrus smell and non-greasy
4.  Rosewater Uplifting Spray :: I use this daily and is so refreshing in the Houston heat
5.  Lip Sheer in Coral :: perfect mix of moisture and color.  Love that it's light for summer!

I don't personally sell these products, but I am hosting a "Facebook Social" to learn more about the products and win giveaway items.  The social is online now through Sunday.  If you are interested in learning more...no pressure to buy I promise...leave a comment and I can add you to the Facebook Group.

You can also use this link to browse the products. 

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 I'm linking up today with Annie and Natalie today for Thoughts for Thursday. 

Five on Friday :: Back-to-School, Birthdays, Tantrums and of course the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!

ONE

Although we are right in the middle of summer, it's not too early to start thinking about backpacks, nap mats and lunch kits, oh my!  Especially if you want them monogrammed, which, duh?

Two Magnolia Lane is now taking orders for these items.  Place your order by August 1 in order to have them in hand (and monogrammed) by the first day of school! 

The hardest part is deciding which color and style to order.  I think I'm going to do the Navy Seersucker {pictured directly below} for Jack...and not because I'm good at making decisions, but because he already has the navy seersucker nap mat and I like things to match!  Plus I clearly love me some red, white and blue!

TWO

On Wednesday night I met my girlfriends for dinner to celebrate me and Adrienne's {May} birthdays...yes, we celebrated May birthdays in July.  That just shows you not only how busy we all have been, but also how sweet my friends are for still celebrating us months later!

We went to Etoile in Uptown Park and it was delicious.  Definitely recommend for Houston area folks.  It also looked like our table was sponsored by Kendra Scott.  Adrienne and I were SPOILED to the max by everyone with lots of new jewelry.  

THREE

I wouldn't be a proper blogger if I didn't at least mention that the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is going on now for cardholders {open to everyone July 17}.  My blog feed was clogged yesterday with everyone's top picks.  I won't bore you with my entire wishlist (although I may next week, lol) but I did quickly snatch up the two items that I thought might sell out: Kate Spade Muli-Color Glitter Studs and a new "Blardigan" (in heathered berry pearl, although there are four color options on sale).

I'm highly considering the Gorjana Taner Small Bar necklace (also pictured below).  There are some great Kendra Scott pieces too, but I feel like I may have enough Kendra at the moment.  

I may or may not have purchased a little something for my mom for Christmas too, but she reads this blog so I can't divulge the details. 

FOUR

This week I made a dent in Coffee Bean's nursery.  I placed an order for bedding, purchased a book rack and started cleaning out items in my house (and listing them on my neighborhood garage sale site which is pure brilliance since you don't have to worry about shipping).  This all may be a small dent, but it still feels good to be moving in the right direction.

FIVE

And last but not least, I loved Annie's post yesterday about Toddler Tantrums since we are in the thick of it too.  Sometimes it's just nice to know you aren't alone.  And Annie is expecting too (with a two year old) just like me so I really related to this one!  Be sure and check out her blog, Home of Malones, if you aren't already a follower.  


Have an awesome weekend!  We don't plan on doing much and I am so happy about it.  

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Five on Friday :: Books, Blardigans, Bargains & Bumps

We are back from Colorado and had a great time.  I plan to do a full recap complete with picture overload next week.  Until then, just as soon as we unpacked our bags from the mountains, we are packing back up for a long weekend in Matagorda - our 4th of July family tradition.  Although I'm super tired and would love to be lazy at home, it will be nice to be on the water and get some beach time in with Jack before he has a sibling in the mix!

ONE 

Speaking of being at the beach, I'm reading a great beach read right now - Jane Green's newest book Summer Secrets.  Love it!  I also just finished The Girl on the Train which I really liked too and can recommend.

Next up I'm considering reading Primates of Park Avenue, Family Pictures and Finding Audrey.

What are you currently reading?

TWO

Has everyone started gearing up for Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale?  I did some major damage last year purchasing a few of Sheaffer's "Must-Have's" like a Blardigan, Black Must-Have Shirt, leggings, and a few other tops.

This year I'm not as interested in the clothing sine I can't wear it for a while being pregnant and my sizes are all over the place but I'm VERY interested in grabbing another Blardigan since I have a feeling it will be my go-to piece this winter when I'm rocking a post-baby bod, nursing and on maternity leave.  I think that justifies grabbing another one, yes?  A new striped version is available this year!  For reference, normal blardigan price is $92, Anniversary Sale price is $60.90.  

If you are a Nordstrom cardholder, the early access sale is July 9-16!

THREE

While in Colorado, I discovered a new shampoo/conditioner that I love...and even better, it's super cheap!  Suave Professionals Almond + Shea Butter smells so good and so far has been giving me lots of good hair days even back in the Houston humidity. 


FOUR

Last Five on Friday I mentioned my search for a great maternity workout pant.  Not that I do that much "working out" these days.  We'll call them my "walking out" pants since walking is pretty much my preferred form of exercise.

Anyway, I ordered these from Nordstrom by Ingrid & Isabel out of desperation - so not wanting to spend $68. The longer "capri" version can be found here and is $78.

Thanks to a sweet blog commenter, I learned that Target sells a VERY similar product for a fraction of the cost called BeMaternity by Ingrid & Isabel.  Same brand, same style, similar material, much smaller price tag - currently on sale for $23.99 (or the knee length is $21.59!  Lucky for me, my Target had it in stock before my trip so I was able to grab a pair!

I ended up keeping both pair - the knee length Nordstrom version and the capri length Target version, both in black.  You can tell a difference in them just that the Nordstrom version material is a little thicker, but overall I'm 100% happy with the Target pair.  Both were comfortable, held me in, cool with the crossover panel in the back, and looked great even in my size L thighs! 

If you are in the market for a pair of maternity workout pants, I say go the Target route and use the extra money you saved on an entire outfit!  You can do the pants + this top + this top + a Starbucks treat for yourself for LESS than the price of just the Nordstrom pants!

Also note that the Nordstrom version only goes up to a Large.  No XL is available.  I'm a size 10/12 or standard Large these days, even at 22 weeks pregnant.  While the Large fits me great now, I probably would be more comfortable in my third trimester in the XL.  The material is very thick and compressive.  It's nice that Target comes in a variety of sizes from XS-XXL! 

FIVE

I'm loving my Bump Nest pillow!  So much so that it traveled with me to Colorado!  This pregnancy pillow is definitely NOT a bargain at $99 (currently on sale for $79 which irritates me since I spent $20 more a week ago), however I will say that it is worth the higher price tag than some of it's competition like the Boppy Total Body Pillow or Leachco Snoogle. The shape, stuffing and material make it different.  It's so silky, cool and soft while still being firm and supportive. 

I hope you have a wonderful Friday and happy and safe 4th of July! 

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