Our 4th annual JingleBALLS has come and gone, and boy was it a good time!

For starters, THANK YOU to all who came, donated, sponsored and just showed support. This is The Blonde Side’s 4th year doing this charity event, and each year it has benefited the Ronald McDonald House Houston. (See the end of this post why we picked RMH as our beneficiary.)

This year, our beautiful co-host was a fellow blonde, Caitlyn Beth – former Houston Texans Cheerleader and model and just an all around do-gooder and fun time. Caitlyn added a bit of flair and fancy to this year’s event and we were so honored to have her as part of the team.

Event Recap: For the 2nd straight year, JingleBALLS was hosted at Gage Lounge in Midtown, and they were the best hosts imaginable. The staff truly went above and beyond helping us set up and keep the night rolling. Thanks to you guys!

We raised more money at JingleBALLS: 4th & Goal than any others and we packed TWO CHEVY TAHOE’S to the rim with brand new balls that we took to the Santa Store at RMH the next day. We raised a couple thousand dollars this year as well, which is a new addition to the balls we’ve donated in the past.

Our Silent Auction table was a hit (as always) and for those curious – our top two items were the Mike Trout autographed baseball (generously donated by BODYARMOR SuperDrink), and the seats and field passes to a 2016 Astros v. Rangers game (generously donated by Astros GM Jeff Luhnow).

A big thank you to FOX26 Houston for having Caitlyn and I on the morning show promoting JingleBALLS – every year the FOX26 family has been so helpful getting the word out and we love working with them (not to mention a number of their amazing staff attended the event!).

Another big thank you to our title event sponsor, TicketCity for not only sponsoring the

event, but giving away a $500 raffle item for future use of tickets. NOTE: use the link above for 10% off any concert/sporting tickets purchased BY December 31st – discount is automatically taken at checkout.

To keep the party rocking, drinks were donated (each guest who donated a ball for RMH or $20 received two complimentary drink tickets) by Dos Equis (STAY THIRSTY) and Finlandia Vodka, Jack Daniel’s (Honey and Jack Daniel’s Fire) tasty concoctions. Probably our best (and most festive) drink menu yet!

Our check-in table was sponsored by The Millennium High Street luxury apartments off Westheimer and we had light bites courtesy of one of Houston’s most popular restaurants, Corner Table.

We also had a super fun photobooth – this was our 2nd year working with Mark McVey at TapSnap1088, and it was amazing. (If you plan to have a photobooth at your next event, please mention JingleBALLS or The Blonde Side for a small discount and to thank him for his donation!)

Please be sure to LIKE The Blonde Side on FB to stay up-to-date with all things sports, humor, fitness, travel and other great events like this. Here are the event pictures from the evening – a big thanks to Quy Ngo and Bryan Anderson (Beauty in Art) for stopping by and snapping some festive photos.

This year’s event committee: Justin Capetillo, Leigh Evans, Hollie Fulsom (and CharitaBulls), April Guzik (our graphic designer – DayZeroCreative), Braidee Ireland, Ciara Major (the lady behind the silent auction table each year!), David Nagy (EndZone King, duh!), Sarah Smith, and Rodney Waites. We also had the folks at Running Game Clothing  there – check out their Houston sports apparel line – use code THEBLONDESIDE for 10% off.

One last big T H A N K Y O U to all who came, donated, and especially sponsored. If you’re reading this, please go show some LOVE to our sponsors – follow them on social media and go visit their businesses. Donating time and money to a charity is a very unique thing and JingleBALLS wouldn’t exist without them.

Lastly, for those still reading…I wanted to share why The Blonde Side has chosen Ronald McDonald House as our beneficiary for this great event the last four years.

I have always had a big heart for giving back, but as someone who doesn’t make a lot of money (oh the joys of being a freelance writer!), I’ve always wanted to work with charities that benefit immediately from every dollar and ball we donate. I know times are tough and not everyone has hundreds or thousands of dollars to donate, especially around the holidays, so we wanted a charity that would be happy and able to use what we were able to give – no matter how small it may seem compared to that of other large corporations or events.

Four years ago, I reached out to a few friends that were very tapped into the Houston community, especially the non-profit world. I asked them to share what charities they thought would benefit most from this idea of an event that was brewing in my little blonde mind and they came back with some great suggestions.

One of them, Kevin Moody (Kevin, I hope you’re reading this, because I’m not sure you even know you’re the reason behind all of this!) suggested the Ronald McDonald House (RMH). He not only suggested it, he championed for it.

One thing I learned after reaching out to RMH and their Santa Store was that it not only

benefited the sick children at the house, but their siblings. I personally have FOUR friends I went to college with that have children under the age of four that have been diagnosed with some form of cancer. After talking with them, the parents and staff at the RMH, one of the biggest things I learned was that the siblings are often not a top priority, especially during the holidays.

The parents and other family members are so focused on their sick child – trying to heal them, make them comfortable, always visiting the doctor, trying new meds, etc. – that there isn’t a lot of time for holiday shopping. The RMH Santa Store benefits the entire family, so they can all enjoy the happiest of holidays, as best they can. To me, that is something special.

Even now, writing this post, I have goosebumps. Some might think a silly basketball means nothing in the grand scheme of things, especially when up against a terrible disease like cancer, but it means the absolute world to some children.

So thank you, truly from the bottom of my heart for not only supporting The Blonde Side’s annual holiday event, but for making a huge difference in the lives of so many that walk through the doors of Ronald McDonald Houses across the nation.

And here’s one last plug/encouragement to each of you (the few still reading!) – I urge you to find a charity near and dear to your heart that you can help. Maybe it isn’t planning a huge event like JingleBALLS or donating money, but volunteering your time. Find what you’re passionate about, what your strengths are, what makes you happy and go find that non-profit in your area that can use your help. Send emails to friends (like I did), or post on FB asking for suggestions. Giving back is something we are able to and should do. I know we don’t all have a lot of time (remember, we all have the same number of hours in a day as Beyonce!), but it can be as simple as reading at a local library or helping deliver meals.

THAT’S IT – HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND THANKS AGAIN TO ALL OF YOU!

Entrepreneur Excitement Blog Series #2 – Neiter Creative with Jo Neiter

Many people don’t realize I went to school for Advertising and Marketing – not writing or journalism. (If you take one look at my misuse of commas, you’d know that right away.)

I’ve always thought that the one thing that has set me apart from other sportswriters/bloggers is my creativity. Going to school and having had the opportunity to work at ad agencies trained my brain in a completely unique way. It taught me that when all the cameras and voice recorders were pointed one direction, I should look the other direction – because that’s where you might find a unique angle no one else even noticed.

Being so interested in branding and graphic design, I run into many talented people, and one of those is Jo Neiter. She’s virtually brand new to running her own business, but as far as what she’s accomplished and how “put together” she is in such a short amount of time, she is downright astounding! And I’d be lying if I didn’t say she was pretty good (and serious!) about fantasy football as well. (She’s also seriously into working out, and I need to invite her to a RYDE class, stat.)

Check out The Blonde Side’s exclusive interview with the fashionable and creative genius below:

The Blonde Side: Tell us who you are? 

Jo Neiter: Owner & Founder of Neiter Creative

TBS: Describe your business and how long you’ve been in business? 

JN: Neiter Creative is a boutique branding and web design company. We are the young age of 1 but have over 40 clients.

TBS: You work in a creative industry – in your own words, tell me what creative means to you? 

JN: Creativity is a continuous state of mind. I don’t think you can turn it off and then turn it back on. If you are a creative person, the things around you are constantly inspiring you.

TBS: How did we meet?

JN: We became blonde soul mates about 5 years ago.. I think? Through a mutual friend, Michelle Tarallo. Jayme was a celebrity guest bartender for a charity event and was drinking more champagne than she was serving! We bonded over our love of football and our tendency to make inappropriately vulgar comments.

TBS: Have you partnered with The Blonde Side on any projects? 

JN: Not yet… but we will. I am sure of it. 

TBS: Tell me about your job?

JN: As owner and founder of Neiter Creative, I find myself being designer, accountant, sales person, marketing director and account manager. I am sure many small business owners also have this “business multiple personality disorder.” What is most important to me, is that my client’s never realize how busy I am. Just because NC is busy, they will still get badass designs, quick responses and an attention to their business that goes beyond any one project. I am constantly thinking of my clients and new ways to enhance their branding and websites.

TBS: Do you have any funny Jayme moments to recount?

JN: Specific funny moments are eluding me, because I feel like every time we hang out I am with the blonde version of Chrissy Teigen and everything is hilarious.

Editor’s Note: BEST. COMPLIMENT. EVER.

TBS: If you had to describe Jayme’s style…?

JN: Jessica Simpson.. Hair did,  jean shorts and some sort of witty tank, but she also cleans up really nice. :)

TBS: What’s the one thing about graphic design most people don’t understand? 

JN: I think people underestimate how much thought and time goes into the development of a strong logo. I have a lot of people tell me “My friend got a logo for $100.” I just want to point out that the person who produced that logo was either not a designer or grossly underestimates their value and services.

TBS: What do you consider your strong suits when it comes to your design capabilities? 

JN: I think I have a great knack for understanding my clients aesthetic. I create designs that are representative of the best version of them.

TBS: Absolute favorite thing about Houston?

JN: Undoubtedly, my favorite thing about Htown is that there are so many young entrepreneurs. These young business owners are coming up with unique ideas and then working their asses off.

TBS: What does supporting not only local Houston folks mean to you, but specifically other women? Do you find it rare to see other women wanting to help others instead of tearing them down?

JN: I have gotten to know some unbelievably amazing women who are in my industry and could be considered competitors. However, we really support each other and direct business and ideas to one another. Shout out to Amelia Tomjanovich of Ringside Design and Megan Davis of Toast & Laurel! And then of course Jayme! Jayme and I are always attending events together to further our knowledge of social media and marketing.

TBS: It takes balls to go out and start your own business – what was the final straw for you that said “now is the time?” 

JN: I was on my way to Bolivia and had just had a challenging couple months at work. I was frustrated and venting to my husband and he asked me, “What do you want to do?” It seems like an obvious question, but it was one I had not asked myself. As soon as he asked me I realized I wanted to start my own company and develop a group of clients that I really believe in.  

TBS: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned running your own business you

wish someone had told you earlier?

JN: Come up with a business plan. A five year plan and a ten year plan! Also get Quickbooks. It is key to know what you are making and what you are spending. (Someone did tell me this and I ignored them.. whoops!)

TBS: What is your driving force behind running your own business? What keeps you going?

JN: This is cheesy as shit, but my husband keeps me going. He is an unbelievably supportive man who believes in me and also happens to be quite sexy.

Editor’s Note: I can vouch for said sexiness… 

TBS: Since this is a sports column, I must ask…favorite team?

JN: Ummmm…. RAVENS! Duh. I am a Baltimore girl and I bleed purple with a hint of black and gold, because I also love the Saints.

TBS: A magazine, website or author you can’t put down?

JN: I love fashion magazines and am particularly obsessed with my friend Alyssa Vingan’s articles on Fashionista.com. Alyssa is smart, funny and so stylish. It is kind of annoying. I also love romance novels…the more scandalous the better!

TBS: Look in your bag – what’s the most random thing in there?

JN: A partially empty protein bistro box from Starbucks. And… it is from yesterday.

TBS: We are literally almost done with 2015 (shocking and scary!) – what is ONE goal you have for the remainder of the year?

JN: For the remainder of the year I am trying to be more present and focused. It is hard to not always be thinking about the next thing.

TBS: Halloween costume you’re most proud of? 

JN: My friend Michelle and I were angels and our “brother” Brian was God. We all bartended together at The Boot in New Orleans, and if you know anything about being a bartender or about The Boot in particular…it does give you a little God complex!

TBS: Moment you are most proud of?

JN: I am most proud of the moment I decided to head to New Orleans, La and attend Loyola University New Orleans. I was scared and nervous, which is often a sign you are about to do the right thing.

TBS: Anything you want to add? 

JN: I am so thankful for Jayme. Despite our immature humor, we have a very mature friendship and mutual respect.

TBS: How can The Blonde Side fans become fans of yours on social media? 

JN: @neitercreative on twitter, instagram, FB and pinterest

Sponsor: You can’t be as active (and ridiculously good looking) as Jo Neiter without some workout inspo and guess what? Spin is in. Thanks to studios and classes offered by places like RYDE Houston. Given both our busy schedules (and her tenaciousness to kick my butt at all things associated with sweating and working out), our next GIRLBOSS date will be a class at RYDE. Pick your class Jo, and let’s go!

Know someone we should profile in this Entrepreneur Excitement Series? Leave a comment below or shoot us an email – jayme @ theblondeside [.] com. 

Let me be clear – eating healthy is not my thing. And I’m fairly confident it never will be. At least not fully. My life is super fast-paced and I am a fan of indulgence.

I recently tried out Eatfitters, a store (with a few locations)/program located here in Houston that prepares healthy meals for you to keep you on track.

I tried the Go3 plan, which included a consultation with a nutritionist (perfect to tell her I don’t like basil, what my day-to-day looks like, and my weaknesses – i.e. sweets), and meals (including snacks!) for three days. It’s the most my fridge has been stocked in months.

I was pleasantly surprised by most of the meals as I’m a pretty picky eater (my favorites are listed below).

What I loved most about having a 3-day plan with Eatfitters was that it saved time trying to figure out what you’re going to eat for lunch or dinner every night. It seems every night I battle with what to cook or where to eat. It also helped me avoid giving into those last minute temptations and cravings, like a juicy burger from Barnabys or white-sauce pizza. Knowing I had food that was already in my refrigerator ready-to-eat made it so much easier to stick to healthy eating.

Some of my favorite menu items included:

• Strawberry Pancakes (it came with honey, but I cheated and added some sugar-free syrup)
• Turkey Stroganoff
• Salmon Piccata (my absolute favorite!)
• Turkey Spinach Lasagna
• Cheesecake Bars
• Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins (these were amazing, I’d eat them anytime!)

Pro-tip: they keep a cooler on the right with meals that are about to expire (they are still good, I promise!) and are 50% off. If you want to swing by and try a few things for lunch or dinner that day, it’s a great way to get a healthy meal at a great cost.

 

Camping not Champing

This year I spent Thanksgiving (and my birthday) camping with my boyfriend and his family. It’s a tradition they’ve done for more than 40 years. When most of my friends heard that I (the girl who loves room service, long hot showers, lush robes and furry slippers) was going camping, they were shocked.

When my boyfriend first asked me to go on his family camping trip, I completely misheard him.

What I thought he said: Do you want champagne?

What he actually said: Do you want to go camping?

See how easy that is to mix-up? Needless to say my answer was yes, and I was going to make the best of it (fast-forward to the end, we had a great time).

Luckily he had a pretty large tent (with room to stand up in, a table and even room for my dog and his crate). My job was to find a sleeping bag. The Texas weather in November can be fairly unpredictable, to put it mildly. I chose a Teton sleeping bag, which is a reputable brand and meant for all seasons.

Since the woods and all things wilderness aren’t really my thing, I loved the comfort and idea of sharing a sleeping bag with my significant other. I didn’t even know two-person sleeping bags existed, but they are genius. I figured, if there’s something crawling in my sleeping bag, then he’s in the same boat. We were in this together.

Other than the cuddle aspect, my favorite thing about the Mammoth sleeping bag was the “mummy style hood,” another thing I wasn’t aware existed. In my past camping experiences, although limited, I remembered always having to lay my pillow on the actual ground since the sleeping bag was the same length on the top and the bottom, but this extended fabric (the “mummy hood”) allowed my pillow to remain in the sleeping bag with me.

Our first two nights camping was H O T. We ended up laying on top of the sleeping bag with a small blanket, taking full advantage of the thick taffeta lining (in non-camper terms: the feel-good slick fabric that keeps you cool). The last night was rainy and cold, so we were able to slide into the sleeping bag, keeping warm thanks to the flannel lining. The drawstring hood and warm flannel lining helped us retain body heat.

Not that we need to add anyone else into our sleeping bag, but it’s pretty neat that the bag

connects to additional bags for additional sleeping space (love those nifty zippers), plus the zippers help to ventilate the bag in a number of ways in case one person gets hot or cold.

My only negative about the sleeping bag was that it was impossible to roll back up and put in its original bag, which would help store it nicely and not so bulky. Perhaps I’m just not skilled enough, but other than that, this made our holiday in the wilderness much more enjoyable! [Apparently there is a video that shows you how.]

Features:

• Double layer construction entire width and length of bag increases warmth and durability
• Suitable for multi-season use in rugged conditions
• Rated for cold temperatures
• Sturdy taffeta shell stands up to years of use
• Sturdy no-snag two-way zippers with metal pulls
• Full-length zipper baffle reduces drafts
• Mammoth bags zippered bags zip together
• Mummy style hood keeps head or pillow off the ground

A few other things I learned in my now-pro camper status:

• No matter what the weather says, be prepared for it all, even on a short trip. In our 3.5 days, temperatures reached as high as 76, got as low as 39 and it rained.
• Bring lots of champagne! Or whatever your beverage of choice is. And definitely bring plenty of water.
• If you’re in a tent, a rug to keep on the ground is key. This helps keep the inside of your temporary house clean. Also, bring a broom so you can sweep out leaves and pine straw.
• If you’re at a campsite with a shower (lucky you!), be sure to bring shower shoes and an easy shower caddy to tote. Most of the bathrooms aren’t the cleanest (or dry), so take as little in there as you need.
• Think outside the tent – bring a hammock, chairs to lounge in and other things to do (i.e. set up a volleyball net, bring your dog if permitted, deck of cards, a good book, etc.).

Check out all the other amazing Teton products for hiking and camping.

What are your best camping tips? Teach me your ways guys!

This post may contain gifted products and/or affiliate links, but all opinions are my own.

I’m starting to feel like Sally Struthers’ PSA commercials, but seriously, I don’t ask for money/donations often, and when I do, they are ones that I believe in so much. 

Here’s the thing – I’m a freelance writer. What that really means is that I don’t make a lot of money. At all.

Why do you care that I’m broke?

Because when I choose a charity or non-profit to support, I work hard to make sure even the little donations matter. If you can only donate $10, that’s PERFECT. Because guess what? TEN DOLLARS DOES A LOT!

Here’s the kicker and where you can seriously make a HUGE impact: If I can get TEN OF YOU to donate just $10 each, together we can provide a family of 4 meals for an entire month! 

And since your hard-earned $10 means so much to me and so many others in need, I am offering prizes! (Right now, odds are good – there are ten people entered to win four prizes.)

For every $10 donation, you are entered to win one of these prizes, thanks to my team at Women’s Health Magazine: Damsen jet speaker set, Love FEED Projects​ Tote, Women’s Medium Racerback RUN10 Tank, or a mophie​ juice pack! 

(For every $10 you donate, you are entered that many times (i.e. $30 donation = 3 entries). Those who previously donated, you are automatically entered as well!)

Donate here.

We are asking that all donations be made by December 1st. (Yes, these donations are tax-deductible too!)

Thank you in advance. And even if you don’t donate to this cause, please consider sharing this page or reading the website to learn more about it. As the holidays approach, lets all make an effort to help someone else out – whether that’s a donation to your favorite cause, spending time volunteering or just helping make your small corner of the world a happier and brighter place. Deal?