The Blonde Side in Black Halo and Mattie-Lou in Natalie Deayala on the ESPYs Red Carpet
Once again the ESPYs proved to be hands-down one of the best events – both on an incredibly good-time personal level as well as business with opportunities to interview 100+ athletes in one day, coupled with everything else the ESPYs, ESPN crew, and all of LA has to offer.
Dressing for a red carpet event is something I’ve yet to master and has taken my anxiety to high levels – especially when you’re there to work.
You want to fit in, but not in the sense you’re an athlete up for a prestigious nomination. You’re working it, so you need to be able to move around and act crazy to get your interviews in, and it’s the middle of July in Los Angeles, so you gotta be careful not to show sweat stains or die of heat exhaustion.
After much deliberation, I went with this black dress from Black Halo (from Tootsies here in Houston). You can see me posing on the carpet with my new friend, Mattie-Lou/Cippy Wallace, as we waited for the celebs to arrive.
Side note: my favorite celeb/athlete on the red carpet has to go to Laila Ali. She absolutely looked stunning and that blue dress showed off her well-earned muscles and awesome figure!
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/ESPY.jpg19361936Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2014-07-28 19:27:552014-11-19 11:20:46Black Halo at the ESPYs
The Blonde Side’s newest bikini: L*Space via Zappos.com
As most of you know, I spent last summer in the most amazing place doing the most amazing thing —> I moved to the North Shore of O’ahu and wrote a book!
During those four incredible months on the island, I learned many things about myself and about what’s important in life and so many other life-changing things, like how to properly hitch-hike, how to cut yourself off from all social media, and more. But lucky for you this blog is about bikinis…
I moved to Hawaii sight-unseen and didn’t know a soul. My second day there, I was grabbing lunch at Ted’s Bakery, literally across the street from my place, and two locals sat down at the community table next to me. We started chatting and they asked me to join them to surf some monstrous waves (I watched).
Afterwards we started talking all things Hawaii and Anthony told me one of the easiest ways to spot a tourist was by her bikini. I didn’t really understand the correlation, but he said tourists usually wear more coverage/full bikinis and were more conservative than the local style. It was true – I noticed it immediately and everyday for the next few months.
After a month, I took it upon myself to say I lived there. It was true – it was my new address for an undetermined amount of time and that made me feel the need to celebrate with a new bikini – which is how I was introduced to my now favorite bikini – L*Space. The short twelve-mile stretched where I sequestered myself to didn’t have Targets or Victoria’s Secret – there were only cute and local shops – including the bikini shops.
Where can I shop L*Space on sale?
You can also shop LSpace on sale at Nordstrom Rack for some killer dealers. Grab great deals on LPsace bikinis at Revolve and use code TULIP for 10% off most orders.
Now that I’m back living in Houston (where’s the beach!?), I want more L*Space, but it isn’t an extremely commonly-known brand in these parts. A select few stores carry the brand, and if they do, the sizing is usually sparse (it’s so popular). Ordering bikinis online used to give me anxiety – I never like to pay for shipping and even at 32-years-old, I still manage to get my size wrong EVERY SINGLE TIME. But I learned that you can order L*Space on Zappos.com and instantly I felt like a small piece of me was still in Hawaii – at least when I was at the pool.
There are a ton of style and colors, so take a few minutes to check out their stuff. (Personal sizing note: I wear my regular size on tops and a size larger usually on the bottoms.)
Zappos offers 24-hour shipping and free returns, so I no longer feel the extreme anxiety ordering the wrong size – I usually order a small and medium in every top and bottom and end up returning whichever doesn’t fit. I still feel like L*Space is a little known secret here in Texas, and I kind of like being one of the trendy few in-the-known on these awesome bikinis.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/photo1.jpg664664Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2014-07-28 17:05:462024-06-06 16:32:31L*Space Bikinis On Sale
Pretty sure The Blonde Side’s never been mistaken for “chicken legs”
If you’ve read The Blonde Side or followed me on Instagram for a while, you know I’ve fallen head-over-heels for New Balance running shoes.
I’ve tested out many running shoes during my time as an athlete – I love Nike for many activities and their look and feel, but for function for my particular feet I’ve really become a loyal New Balance fan. The shoes I’ve been running in for the past six months are the New Balance Fresh Foam 980’s. They come in a myriad of colors, and have held up through all my travels, half-marathons, workouts at the gym, and more.
Since I’m a girl and either A) like to change my mind a lot or B) find something and fall in love with it and order a bunch of them so I never run out, Zappos.com makes shopping for running shoes particularly easy (free 24-hr shipping and free returns 365 days/year is just a simple bonus).
My favorite feature on the site is the ability to narrow down your search considerably to save on time, and to help ensure you are ordering pretty much the perfect shoe. My first option of course is to select New Balance, but the option I like most is “pick shoes by shoe weight,” as I’m a big fan of shoes that are extremely lightweight. Heavy shoes seem to slow me down, so this is a non-negotiable when shopping new shoes. The Zappos.com feature allows you to select from four weight options (6-10oz, 11-15oz, 1-5oz, and 16-20oz), which is incredibly helpful since you can’t feel them in person (or you can just order a bunch and return the ones you don’t like as much for free).
Not to mention Zappos.com offers 24-hour delivery and free returns, just in case you order the wrong size or
Zappos.com allows shoppers to choose “shoe weight” while shopping
change your mind on the color. As a creature of habit, I’ve run into the issue many times where a shoe I’ve really loved has worn itself out and I want the exact same shoe – many local stores won’t keep them in stock and 99% of the time, I’ve found that the same shoes (in the same colors) are available on Zappos.com, and since I already know the size, it’s a no-brainer.
Pro tip: Reading the reader reviews/comments on the shoes has also proved helpful many times, so keep that in mind.
New Balance shoes are also American-made and absolute marketing geniuses – huge, huge bonus for this Red, White and Blue blonde girl.
Even The Blonde Side makes a smart move from time-to-time, like buying New Balance running shoes on Zappos.com.
Pack light, thanks to Nike Pro available at Zappos
If you’re going to write about fitness, you kind of have to partake in it – for me that means especially while traveling. It’s kind of like if you’re going to talk the talk, you better walk the walk adage we learned as kids.
Recently I’ve fallen in love with Zappos.com, which helps me walk the walk that much better. It has become one of my go-to performance apparel shopping destinations, and I love the next day shipping (hi, procrastinate much) and returns 365 days a year. Another cool thing I love about Zappos.com and their next day shipping is that just in case I forget to pack certain workout gear, I can have it shipped directly to my hotel and not really miss any go-time.
Although fitness (especially hiking and running in parts of the country I’m experiencing for the first time, which is one of the most freeing things I’ve ever experienced) is a huge part of my travel, I can’t let it take up a ton of space in my luggage. The more I travel, the more I see the benefits of carry-on luggage – allowing for a quicker exit, less chance of losing bags and avoiding baggage fees. So space is limited.
I may be able to forego that extra pair of Hudson Jeans, but skimping on workout apparel isn’t an option. My favorite travel workout outfit is part of the Nike Pro Five-Inch Short ($30) available on Zappos.com. The shorts take up very little space and are great for running as they don’t ride up but are still flattering in case you stop in town to shop or grab a coffee. These shorts are also great because they come in a myriad of colors, which I’m always a sucker for.
On really hot days I pair them with this Nike lightweight sports bra ($30 | shown in picture), which provides just enough coverage and support. The other great part about this Nike line for travel is that you can wear them for multiple days. Since they are so lightweight and feature Dry-FIT technology, you can easily wash/rinse them in your hotel room after a run and let them dry in the bathroom, ready for tomorrow’s workout.
I know everyone wants to be super fashionable while traveling and working out, but sometimes it pays to be realistic. Trust me, it took me years to learn this lesson, just don’t tell my mother. Luckily with this line and all the bright color options, you can be both fashionable and realistic.
*I recommend washing Nike products inside out (as most fitness apparel should) – it keeps the swoosh in perfect form longer, although sometimes a retro look is pretty awesome.
For shoes, I love the New Balance minimalist shoe for travel. I don’t recommend them for 26.2-mile runs (I said that as if I’d actually ran that distance all at once…), but for a hike or easy 3 – 7miler, they are perfect and unfathomably light – again perfect for travel.
Even The Blonde Side makes a smart move from time-to-time, like buying Nike and other athletic products on Zappos.com.
Pro Tip for getting your workout on while traveling: If you’re staying at a hotel, send them a message via social media or ask the concierge about workout facilities. Many times if there isn’t a gym on-site, the hotel offers complimentary guest passes to nearby gyms (NYC is big on this), and you just might get connected with a fitness instructor the hotel works with often. Kimpton Hotels are also known for providing running maps with runs around the city that range from 1 to 10 miles.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/NikeZappos.jpg632640Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2014-07-23 17:19:122014-11-19 11:23:59Nike for Travel on Zappos.com
vitafusion gummy vitamins – I love being an adult!
Nothing has ever made me feel more like a healthy adult and a child all at once. Until I was introduced to vitafusion™ gummy vitamins. Not only are they good for you, but they taste delicious!
I’m not sure when tasty vitamins became a necessity, but I’m sure glad they did. The vitafusion™ gummy vitamins deliver delicious nutrition (and are only about 15 calories each) in a great-tasting gummy, making it easy and enjoyable to take your vitamins.
The vitafusion™ gummy vitamins come in a variety of vitamins, minerals and other dietary supplements to help adults meet their health and nutrition needs. They even come in a pre-natal variety, which is what I take – my doctors have said for many years that pre-natal vitamins are the most fully encompassing vitamin women my age (32) can take.
Be sure to visit gummyvites.com for $1 off.
Quick note – these are not the best vitamins to travel with (unless you put them in your carry-on or leave in the hotel), because they can melt. It’s only happened to me once, but then they start to stick together.Or maybe that’s just because I live in Texas?
Jello Shots – the only time The Blonde Side excels in the kitchen
It’s no secret the kitchen isn’t really my forte, but thankfully JELL-O SHOTS are.
For the 4th of July, I decided to try something new, using the flavored Rita’s from Bud Light (Mango, Raspberry, Strawberry and Lime).
It’s super simple – make JELL-O as stated on package – when it’s time to add “cold water” simply add a cold Rita (whatever flavor you want). I made quite a variety of flavors, but in true blonde fashion, I didn’t label which ones had which flavor JELL-O OR which ones had which flavor Rita’s – so I did have a favorite, I just haven’t a clue which one it was.
These were actually REALLY good, but even with 8% alcohol in the Rita’s, they weren’t very strong (at least not for JELL-O shots). On the next go round I’m going to add some vodka (I’m a big fan of Tito’s) and I’ll let you know how they turn out. If you use the Lime-a-Rita and the lemon-lime JELL-O, you should add tequila instead of vodka.
The simplest way I’ve found to make these without making a huge mess is to place the shooter cups (I bought mine at Spec’s here in Houston) on a large baking sheet and used a large mixing bowl with a spout to pour them evenly and without spillage. And I have a super obese Chihuahua so he helped clean up the mess too.
If you need any additional Jello Shot tips, shoot me a note, I don’t mean to brag, but I’m kind of an expert.
A super cool part about running The Blonde Side, are the invitations to fun and exclusive events and trying things (products, food, beers, etc.) before they are open to the public. Today I got to sample EVERY single one of the new Frozen Custard Waffle Cone Sundaes ($5.50 each) at Petite Sweets.
This new menu includes seven sundaes:
1. Chocolate Covered Pretzel – for those salty and sweet all-in-one lovers.
2. Big Island – if you love pineapple, give this one a go.
3. Lemon Ice Box – a big favorite of many.
4. The Turtle – caramel and chocolate – how can you go wrong?
5. The Funfetti – smashed up sugar cookies IN your waffle sundae!
6. Makers Chocolate Covered Cherries – a rather bold taste, but I’m not much a fan of cherries, unless it’s cherry vodka.
7. Balsamic Strawberry – this one was my favorite. It is typically served with vanilla frozen custard, but in true blonde fashion, I always change things up a bit, so I got chocolate frozen custard. There is something about a chocolate | strawberry combo that is sinfully good – and of course the strawberries (A FRUIT!) makes me feel it’s sort of healthy!
Petite Sweets is located at 2700 W. Alabama near Kirby, in Houston.
Pro tip for dudes – This is a cute after-dinner date spot. Ask the girl “mind if we hit one more spot before I take you home,” and take her to this deliciously adorable shop. Trust. Me.
The Blonde Side’s newest must-have beach essential
Physician’s Formula Super CC Color Correction + Care CC Cream SPF 30
This is the first of its kind and now, something I can’t live without – it’s basically a tinted moisturizer that protects AND corrects your skin while it’s giving you SPF 30 coverage. It’s great for my face and doesn’t give a lot of shine like most face moisturizers and sunscreens, plus it makes me look a tad more presentable! And for only $14.95 – how can you not love this?
This new CC Cream has been added to The Blonde Side’s list of must-have beach essentials – give it a try, you’ll love it.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Screen-Shot-2014-07-09-at-12.53.27-PM.png350222Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2014-07-09 12:56:202014-07-09 12:56:20Physician’s Formula Super CC Color Correction + Care CC Cream SPF 30 | Product Review
Wanderlust – the evolutionary yoga lifestyle brand
One of the best parts about running The Blonde Side and covering the worlds of sports + travel + fitness is I’m introduced to so many amazing athletes, towns, events, and more. Sometimes I’m even lucky enough to be introduced to an event (or concept actually) that combines all of the above – Wanderlust Aspen.
Though I’ve yet to experience Wanderlust firsthand (I was credentialed to cover this one, but had to cancel due to other obligations), I have no doubt it is in fact as epic as everyone says it is.
Wanderlust is the largest multi-day yoga and music festival in the world. Beginner and experienced yogis can hit the mat with world-renowned instructors from across the world and embark on an adventure of the mind, body and soul in one of the most beautiful towns in America (Aspen!). This is a time where you can truly get in touch with yourself, network and sweat out the good life with so many like-minded individuals from across the country. What’s not to love about such an event? Such a lifestyle? Such a way of life?
This will be the first year Wanderlust will head to Aspen-Snowmass, and attendees can look forward to breathtaking 360-degree views of the Maroon Bells and beautiful hikes and backdrops. If you’ve never experienced Aspen in the summer, you will absolutely fall in love.
Wanderlust was created by three friends with long and deep relationships. The 20+ year husband and wife duo of Jeff Krasno and Schuyler Grant joined forces with their mutual friend (also Jeff’s business partner of a decade), Sean Hoess. Hearing the Wanderlust story is simply empowering – to see these individuals take a friendship and an idea and actually make it happen. Why don’t we all follow our dreams and our goals the way they did? It’s downright encouraging and a reminder we should keep at our goals. Their story is amazing for many reasons, but their ambition to get Wanderlust off the ground and running has changed the lives of hundreds of thousands over the course of their tenure and is still going strong.
Since Wanderlust is known as a brand and lifestyle, it makes sense that the festival also pays focus to sustainable living, offering signature Farm-to-Table dinners presented by Eating Well and Fitness Magazine.
Hit the mats with world-renowned yoga instructors
A few other pieces to Wanderlust Aspen-Snowmass you’ll want to check out:
Adventure Race: This weekend-long race incorporates running, cycling, swimming and yoga and more for an all-out physical challenge. Be prepared to sweat, get your cardio up and solve mental, physical and team challenges while having the time of your life.
Photoflow Photography Workshop: Photographer Ali Kaukas invites guests to bring their cameras on a nature hike, to capture some phenomenal shots of North America’s most exquisite terrain.
Amir Magal Tribal Art: Amir’s art/photography is a unique expression of how all generations are seeking to be part of a tribe and claim identity. You may see Amir painting, sculpting with mud or engaging guests of all ages.
Viceroy Snowmass Spa: Designed by acclaimed architect Jean Michel-Gathy, the 7,000-square-foot spa offers a selection of holistic wellness experiences, from Ute Indian-inspired therapies to contemporary beauty rituals. Wanderlust attendees receive a 20% off discount for all spa services before 1pm, or 15% after 1pm.
Fits Arts Capoeira / Smoothments: Smoothments is a mix of traditional and contemporary capoeira taught by Alfred Kendrick, a Hollywood personal trainer whose list of clients include celebrities, super-models, performers, and athletes.
Keith Mitchell Speakeasy: NFL Pro Bowl player Keith Mitchell’s career ended when he had a paralyzing injury on the field. Keith credits his yoga practice with his recovery. Keith will lead a speakeasy lecture on nurturing our intentions, as well as meditation workshops on the chakras.
Walkabout with Nahko Bear: This afternoon hike with the lead singer of Medicine for the People, promises a journey thorough ancient trails, story telling, laughter and, of course, yoga.
In case you’re not already completely sold on the idea of Wanderlust Aspen, here’s a list of 25 reasons you should attend.
If you can’t make it to Aspen, there are still three more cities hosting the evolutionary yoga event this summer -next up is Wanderlust’s original birthplace, Squaw Valley (July 17-20), then an extended 5-day event in Whistler, BC, Canada (July 31 – August 4), and finally a newly expanded festival at Tremblant (August 21-24) to cap off the summer season.
Run10Feed10 in Houston – Use promo code WHLAMM for $5 off
Hey Houston, are you ready for a brand new race series in your town? The Women’s Health Run10Feed10 Race will take place in Houston on Sept 27th, and yours truly is an Action Hero trying to help make this race and the great cause behind it really take off!
I know it seems really far away, but we’re trying to get as many signups as soon as possible – this series has been going on for three years and this is the first time Houston will host their own race, so we need to show the powers that be that Houston IS a run town.
Plus, it gives us more time to get our training butts in gear!
The race series is really cool – aside from getting cool swag (see below), each and every signup will provide TEN meals to hungry kids right here in our own backyard. So yes, this money STAYS in Houston to help our neighbors. By signing up, you will also get:
– You’ll get our 2014 limited-edition FEED bag! (the one all the celebs carry around!)
– A special FEED bracelet as a finisher prize!
– 10 issues of Women’s Health mag for free (you can decline this option and get a $10 refund on your sign-up if you wish)
Sign up for the race here. Use promo code: WHLAMM (at the very end of signup) for $5 off.
There is also a GREAT fundraising component to this event – if you want to donate something (even as little as $10) to the cause, you can go to my page and make it quick and easy.
You are also encouraged (though not mandatory) to start your own fundraising page – it will give you the option to set up your own page during race registration – just click yes and you’ll be prompted to set that up after your registration is complete.
This is a huge event for so many people, including me. I would very much appreciate each of your support on this event
Who wouldn’t want a limited edition FEED bag while helping kids?
(whether running/walking with me, donating a few bucks, or sharing it with friends and family via email and social media). Remember, this is a fun run, so it’s 100% OK and welcome if you’re not a fast runner or a runner at all, you can walk the race, we just want you there.
We also have a list of races in other cities (go to the main Run10Feed10 website to see which cities – folks in other cities can also use the WHLAMM discount code for $5 off).
If you know of any businesses in the area that want to donate or perhaps match our donations, that would be AWESOME, please let me know!
If you don’t already follow The Blonde Side on FB, please do me a favor and LIKE it.
