I am literally always on the go (as you can see in this picture unable to stand still), which means I have to stuff a whole lot of things into bags so I’m prepared.
People call me the bag lady because I’m always transferring my “practical” purse items (wallet, lip gloss, sunglasses, etc.) in and out of my laptop bag as I’m either traveling or posted up at a coffeeshop or who knows where.
At any given time there are six bags hanging off my dining room chair because one is for the gym, one is for a fancy client meeting, another for a bar-hopping night with friends, and the list continues. I never had the perfect-for-everything kind of bag(s) until this Christmas!
This Christmas, I got one of the most practical gifts I’m just obsessed with. Thanks to Instagram, I met and fell in love with the luxury brand of handbags, august. And thanks to Santa, I got my very own!
All the reasons I love these bags and the august brand:
PRACTICAL.The Camps Bay bag in black (the bigger one, which is on sale for 1/2 off!) was such a practical and lovely gift. I use it as my general laptop/carry-on bag while traveling. To go with that, I got The Ravello fold-over clutch, so it’s an easy-as-pie transition no matter where I’m headed. I put the clutch in the carry-on and when it’s time for dinner or to meet friends, I just grab the clutch and go. Both are so chic on their own, it’s the best way to dress up my usual yoga pants and oversized t-shirt look or jeans and messy bun.
BAGS THAT GIVE BACK. It’s no secret I LOVE companies that give back and august most certainly does. After seeing a lack of educational opportunities as they traveled the world, the founders (Charles and Jenna) recognized a need for greater education on a
Photo: Courtesy august Instagram
global scale, and brought it back to their new home in LA. The duo has partnered with Operation School Bell to offer a backpack to underserved youth in Los Angeles for every august bag sold. Did you hear that? Buy yourself a luxury handbag (or a friend) and they will donate a backpack to a child in need in the Los Angeles area!
WANDERLUST INSPIRED. As someone who works in both the travel and sports world, I love that these functional and amazing bags are based on the creator’s past travels. For example, The Ravello (the fold-over clutch above) has this description: I’m obsessed with all things Italian — it’s one of those majestic places that all roads seem to lead back to. This foldover clutch was inspired by our travel to the Italian Riveria and embodies the versatility of European life. Popping up to Milan for a meeting and then heading down the coast on the train for a romantic weekend is actually possible in Italy — and blows my mind every time. Sophisticated, practical and great to carry your iPad or other key essentials.
Photo: Courtesy august (Founder Jenna | Villa D’Este in Lake Como, Italy)
Although when I think about it, I sort of feel like an underachiever. I travel to Spain and bring back a bottle of cava and new Instagram pictures. This pair is creating handbags to serve as memories and helping children in need. Kudos to them.
In case you’re in the market for a new august handbag (who isn’t?), use code: BLONDESIDE20 for 20% off all orders, no expiration date. And go give their Instagram account a follow – it’ll up your wanderlust level 60% – not sure if that’s good or bad.
3 Ways to Wear: Alpha Industries Helo Bomber Utility Jacket
I was recently turned on to Alpha Industries and their line of flight jackets and parkas. It took me forever to decide on a jacket, but I fell in love with the Helo Bomber Utility Jacket in Steel Blue (see what I did there, Texans fans?).
Look #1 – Layering is all the rage with the amount of travel I do and how quickly I go from hot to freezing cold in a matter of seconds. A pair of quality jeans are my weakness, rolled up with a pair of strappy heels and a flannel around my waist along with the oversized Helo Bomber Utility makes me feel incredibly comfortable, but still on point with trends.
Look #2 – I rarely get super dressed up, but I will rock a LBD (little black dress) pretty much any day of the week. Sticking with comfort and ease, a pair of ankle boots with a little heel keeps it girly and functional, and the Helo Bomber Utility brings it back down to a fun and flirty playing field.
Look #3 – As a sportswriter and always on the go, I love a simply graphic tee and Converse. The Helo Bomber Utility adds to the already sporty and comfortable look, giving it a little extra edge and personality, and the beanie helps hide the fact I had to get ready super fast. Bonus: all the extra pockets in the jacket make it an easy wear since I don’t always like carrying around a purse!
Thanks to Alpha Industries for featuring me on their blog. Lots of cool celebs rock these jackets, so hoping that up’s my cool factor just a tad.
Shop the latest Alpha Industries looks on Revolve and use code TULIP for 10% off most items. Plus you’ll love their fast and free shipping and easy returns.
This post may contain affiliate links, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
It’s no secret, I’m no expert in the kitchen and it’s also no secret that learning to cook (at least on some level above mac ‘n cheese) is on the top of my list of things to bet better at.
Last night I tried a Stuffed Peppers recipe I found at Eating Well, and made a few modifications.
For starters, yes, I chose red and green peppers for Christmas colors, since it’s that time of the year!
I used ground beef (98% lean) instead of turkey, because I eat turkey a lot.
I also added chopped and sautéed yellow peppers, chili tomatoes (to give it a little kick), and shredded cheese and used a smidgen of truffle oil while sautéing the onions. So basically, I took a fairly healthy recipe and undid all of that, but I have to admit – even I was pretty impressed with the outcome.
Next time, I will add something with more kick – maybe some hot sauce into the mixture before baking them. Somehow, I also ended up with twice as much “stuffing” to put in the peppers, even after filling all four, so I am running to the store to get more peppers for tonight. It’s kind of considered leftovers, kind of a brand-new meal, right?
Also, to show just how much of a novice in the kitchen I am – this was my first time actually cooking rice. I always thought the “boil in a big” was how you made rice, so that was new. I also had never chopped an onion until last night. My tip – DON’T WEAR MASCARA WHEN CHOPPING ONIONS. It burns even more.
I’d love to hear your favorite recipes or websites or kitchen hacks – comment below and lets learn to cook together!
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, TicketCityfor not only sponsoring the
How many blonde co-hosts does it take to work a photobooth?
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!)
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
Ronald McDonald House Houston Santa Store (via RMH-H FB page)
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.
Dropping off the JingleGALLS good at RMH Houston
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!
As we get closer and closer to Christmas (or whatever holiday you may or may not celebrate), here at The Blonde Side, we are putting together some of our very favorite gift guides.
Now up is my personal favorite: Gift Guide for Sports Lovers. I’ll keep this brief…
Know someone always spending money on sporting event tickets (NBA, College Bowl Games, NFL, etc.)? Use this link at TicketCity before 12/31/15 and get 10% off any tickets. (The discount will automatically be deducted as a friends and family code at checkout.)
If you know any Houston sports fans, definitely check out my favorite t-shirt apparel company Running Game Clothing. They are seriously super soft and unique shirts and lots of the players and their families wear them. Use code THEBLONDESIDE at checkout for 10% off your order. (These have to ship, so order soon!)
I pretty much love anything from Fanatics (because they have pretty much everything for all teams), but the Unforgettable Gifts section is one of my favorites. There are a ton of items listed, but you can narrow it down by the team, which makes it easier. They are also running all kinds of free shipping deals (like right now), so go take advantage. It’s no secret I’m still obsessed with all the team ugly sweaters for the holidays too – those make great gifts!
I’m also oddly obsessed with all things Team USA (Olympics) and there is a great selection of workout gear and other Team USA-spirited items.
Those are just a few of my favorites for sports lovers. What about you guys? Are there brands or websites you’re just obsessed with?
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:
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?
Spoken like a true professional
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
Neiter Creative – a new (and powerful) entrepreneur in Houston!
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.
As the end of the year (i.e. holidays & cold season) approaches, I simply just don’t have time to be sick. You’re probably thinking – who actually has time to be sick?
But for me, as a freelance writer/entrepreneur, I absolutely have to end the year with a bang (the making money kind of bang). And that means I CAN’T GET SICK.
During these colder months, even here in Texas where the weather is unpredictable, I rely heavily on Vicks DayQuil Severe and Vicks NyQuil Severe to help keep me powering through the day and sleeping through the night. No matter how much I try to take care of myself with vitamins and other health regimes, I inevitably end up with some sort of cold or cold-like symptoms and it’s important to stop them from the start.
Pro-tip: I prefer caplets during the day (easier to carry in my bag) and the liquid formula at night as it coats my throat keeping me from coughing as much.
Although the NyQuil Severe definitely helps me sleep, it’s the DayQuil Severe that really keeps me going with its non-drowsy pain relieving formula (the same one that gets rid of nasty decongestion, aches, fevers, sores, chest congestion and so much more). I have tried so many over-the-counter maximum strength medicines for cold and flu symptoms over the years, but this is the one I truly rely on. It helps keep me healthy and keeps me focused on writing without getting all loopy like some medicines.
Pro-tip: if I’m traveling for the holidays, I always bring it with me, especially overseas where it may not be available.
A few other tips to stay healthy during the cold season (also known as end-of-year parties to many of us):
Drink more water than I think humanly possible. And then drink more.
Keep up my workout routine. My class schedules may change, but I still find at least 20-30 minutes for a 3-mile run or walk around the park with friends to get my heart rate up and Vitamin D!
Take Vitamin-C tablets along with my regular multi-vitamins.
Plan sensible meals – a lot of holiday parties only offer “light bites,” so I make it a point to plan out a night I know I have time to make grilled chicken and asparagus at home. It helps make up for those naughty nights where my diet consists of champagne and pigs in a blanket. Or Krispy Kreme, if I’m being honest.
Try to stick to a schedule. The holidays (long lunches, late night parties, writing Christmas cards, etc.) are always a busy time, but I do my best to remain on track as much as possible, including getting the same amount of sleep, setting alarms and stuff like that. Once my body feels off track even just a little, it leaves room for messy colds to creep in!
If you need to stock up on either the day or night-time Vicks products, use this code for a discount. And best of luck! In case you’re wondering, as an adult, this is the kind of stuff I now like in my stocking. Hint, Hint.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/vsco-photo-1.jpg32642448Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2015-12-07 18:52:202015-12-14 10:58:57The Season for Vicks
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.
The Blonde Side’s Gift Guide for Book Nerds (yes, I am one of them!)
I am a proud book nerd. I guess I should be as a writer. The past few months I have come across some amazing books – ones I’ve already read and highly recommend and ones I am dying to read.
(PS – I love shopping at local bookstores, but I’ve linked to Amazon if you’re in a rush or want to avoid stores.)
Here are a few I recommend for Christmas this year:
Copygirl by Anna Mitchael: For starters, I’m obsessed with Anna Mitchael. And she’s aware of my weird obsession and she’s OK with it (or so she says). She’s one of the best authors, she’s a Texas gal (originally from Louisiana though), and I want to be her. SHE was the entire reason behind me getting the nerve to write my own memoir. This book has been dubbed in the same category as #GIRLBOSS and the femme-fiction book is being touted as a Mad Men-meets-Devil Wears Prada tale with a girl power message – the main character works at a NY ad agency. It’s worth the read.
You are a Badass by Jen Sincero: How did I find this book you might ask? Well, Instagram of course. THIS was the book everyone was posting on airplanes, at the beach, strategically placed next to a Starbucks cup and pretty much everywhere. I read this on a plane ride to Mazatlan and instantly felt more self-assured – more than I had in quite some time. This book is in the self-help section, but it actually gives real-life advice that is refreshing and drops a few f-bombs in the process. (Told you, real-life stuff here.) Sincero provides advice and tips that I’e been using since I put the book back on my coveted little bookshelf. It’s a great gift for anyone looking to make some ass-kicking changes in their life.
Make it Happen by Lara Casey: I have not read this yet, but it’s next on my list. It is another self-help type of book, but the ladies I know who have recommended it are ones I fully trust. They don’t have time to waste on stupid reads, so I’m going all in. Stay tuned.
please everyone around you and in the process making yourself miserable? I’m sure you have at least once or twice – I know I have. This book is an inspiration about basically saying screw what everyone else thinks and be yourself. It’s scary, but it’s worth it. Life is too short to live it pleasing others.
You Deserve a Drink by Mamrie Hart: I heard about this book again via Instagram – via the Glitter Guide’s Book Club, so I trusted them and they did not let me down. Not one bit. Basically all you need to know is this: Mamrie Hart is a drinking star with a Youtube problem. She became famous on YouTube by telling ridiculous booze-related stories (man that takes balls!), not afraid to let it all hang out, and this book is a collection of those. It’s an easy read and hilarious.
See Me by Nicholas Sparks: A brief reminder for those who forget, yes, I am still a chick and chick-novels, especially ones by Nicholas Sparks are my favorites. His books make me escape life, even if just for 250 pages, but it’s a much-needed break sometimes. His latest novel is guaranteed to tug at the heartstrings and have you glued to each page.
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert: Another one I haven’t read yet but is on my list. This book was named a Hot Fall Read by USA Today, Vanity Fair, Newsday,O Magazine, the Seattle Times, Minneapolis Star-Tribune, Mashable, Pop Sugar, and the San Antonio Express-News. “A must read for anyone hoping to live a creative life… I dare you not to be inspired to be brave, to be free, and to be curious.” —PopSugar. I trust all those people, so should you. Who here doesn’t want to lead a creative life, I mean lets be real?
T H I S
The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin (or anything by Rubin): This is not a new book, but it’s been read and loved by many and should be on any book lovers shelf.
Anything by Elin Hilderbrand: I’ve read at least four of her books and I’m hooked. Hilderbrand is another one of those authors that just takes you out of your own weird and dramatic life for a while and takes you elsewhere. Every book I’ve read from her has had me captivated on every single page. Please don’t ever stop writing Elin, please.
Ok, so what books do you love? I love hearing recommendations, so go.
Books and champagne: two areas I won’t stop spending money in.
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
Teton Mammoth Sleeping Bag: Product Review: LOVED IT
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.).
