{ Primal Eating & Popsugar }

Hi Lovelies! I hope you all had an amazing weekend! Ours was pretty low-key, which was great since my birthday weekend the previous week was lovely, but super busy! I've had a lot going on over the last week, but wanted to make sure to stop in and say Hi! Welcome to all the new beauties stopping by my blog!!! I truly appreciate you taking the time to read my posts and all of your sweet comments. They truly make my day!

In other news....  I'm planning to try out The Whole 30 soon. This is very difficult for me in many ways and something I've thought very long and hard about. If you're not familiar with the Whole 30, it's thirty days of eating alongside Paleo guidelines. In other words - no grains, legumes, processed food, sugar, and a few other things. I know, I know, all of my vegan/vegetarian readers are probably cursing me right now! I'm sorry. I know.... I was a dairy-free vegetarian a couple years ago for about 2 months and while I felt great at first, it just wasn't for my body. Trust me, I want to be a vegetarian, I really do. But I have a myriad of issues that make that very very difficult. Already having a mild dairy intolerance, a severe gluten intolerance and some issues with blood sugar when I eat grain more than once in a day, just doesn't leave me very much to eat. After researching this way of eating for a while now, though I'm not overly crazy about the focus on meat, I've decided that it's just what's best for my body. I currently eat mainly cage-free, hormone-free poultry and some seafood a few times a week, with the very occasional grass-fed beef from time to time. So I don't really plan on increasing my meat intake. That's just the way I rationalize something that is a bit of a tough pill for me to swallow. It's hard for me knowing that I'm eating a once living thing, but I'm just so tired of being in pain and feeling sick all the time. Sometimes you just have to listen to your gut... Literally. So I was kind of toying with the idea of posting my progress on here. Maybe 1-2 times per week. Is this something you all would be interested in? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Last, but not least..... Over the summer I had the amazing honor of being accepted as a Popsugar Beauty & Fashion Blogger! And my first post was just published! I would love for you to check it out and show some love if you like it!!!

I'll be checking in again soon with another book review, some recipes and my latest fashion/beauty fav's!

Christy
xoxo

{ Three Weeks in Books ... }

I've obviously been a little MIA the last three weeks. It's amazing to me how quick the time flies by! It started out as waiting to post until my son got settled in school, and before I knew it, his first week back was over. I've had a crazy few weeks and have really been struggling to get out of my own head. We have a lot going on over here and between soccer practices, games, birthdays (mine is Thursday, yay!), and just the mundane parts of everyday life, the days seem to go on in warp speed. I've been looking for a part-time job, which is hard on my little mans schedule. But I'm really hoping to find something over the next couple of weeks, before everyone starts preparing for the string of holidays! To keep me sane lately, I've been reading. A LOT. Reading seems to be the only thing that is extremely calming to me. Sometimes when I'm in a tizz, watching a movie or working out helps, but my mind just keeps going. I can't control it. It's a disease really. But when I get lost in a book, my mind isn't capable of thinking at the same time. At least not too much anyway. So as I had mentioned in my last post, I had started reading Sharp Objects. I'm not the best book reviewer, so bare with me.....

So with Sharp Objects, I read this one really quick. I got sucked in and after a certain point I just couldn't put it down. Here is the book Synopsis via Goodreads:

" WICKED above her hipbone, GIRL across her heart
Words are like a road map to reporter Camille Preaker’s troubled past. Fresh from a brief stay at a psych hospital, Camille’s first assignment from the second-rate daily paper where she works brings her reluctantly back to her hometown to cover the murders of two preteen girls.

NASTY on her kneecap, BABYDOLL on her leg
Since she left town eight years ago, Camille has hardly spoken to her neurotic, hypochondriac mother or to the half-sister she barely knows: a beautiful thirteen-year-old with an eerie grip on the town. Now, installed again in her family’s Victorian mansion, Camille is haunted by the childhood tragedy she has spent her whole life trying to cut from her memory.

HARMFUL on her wrist, WHORE on her ankle
As Camille works to uncover the truth about these violent crimes, she finds herself identifying with the young victims—a bit too strongly. Clues keep leading to dead ends, forcing Camille to unravel the psychological puzzle of her own past to get at the story. Dogged by her own demons, Camille will have to confront what happened to her years before if she wants to survive this homecoming.

With its taut, crafted writing, Sharp Objects is addictive, haunting, and unforgettable."

And Sharp Objects truly was unforgettable. It was one of the better books I have read in a while. And I say "better" because I hold very high standards in my "best" category. Only a few books have made this list and I've been a major reader for a very long time. I thought the building of characters was very very good in this book. There were so many layers to everyone and I really loved how each chapter seemed to peel another layer to reveal more and more as the book went on. This is what really hooked me. You see, the book is a bit gritty. And I don't mind a gritty book AT ALL. But it can get kind of weird at times. Even still, it was like a drug I just couldn't get enough of. About 3/4 of the way through the book I did have an idea who was committing the heinous murders, but I wouldn't say that it's predictable. All in all, I really really liked Sharp Objects. So much so that I followed it up immediately with Dark Places. I wasn't sure how much I would like Dark Places, which is why I didn't start with it. But I was so hooked on Gillian Flynn's style of writing, I dove in. Here is the synopsis:

" I have a meanness inside me, real as an organ.

Libby Day was seven when her mother and two sisters were murdered in “The Satan Sacrifice of Kinnakee, Kansas.” As her family lay dying, little Libby fled their tiny farmhouse into the freezing January snow. She lost some fingers and toes, but she survived–and famously testified that her fifteen-year-old brother, Ben, was the killer. Twenty-five years later, Ben sits in prison, and troubled Libby lives off the dregs of a trust created by well-wishers who’ve long forgotten her.

The Kill Club is a macabre secret society obsessed with notorious crimes. When they locate Libby and pump her for details–proof they hope may free Ben–Libby hatches a plan to profit off her tragic history. For a fee, she’ll reconnect with the players from that night and report her findings to the club… and maybe she’ll admit her testimony wasn’t so solid after all.

As Libby’s search takes her from shabby Missouri strip clubs to abandoned Oklahoma tourist towns, the narrative flashes back to January 2, 1985. The events of that day are relayed through the eyes of Libby’s doomed family members–including Ben, a loner whose rage over his shiftless father and their failing farm have driven him into a disturbing friendship with the new girl in town. Piece by piece, the unimaginable truth emerges, and Libby finds herself right back where she started–on the run from a killer."

I also really enjoyed Dark Places, though not as much as Sharp Objects. I didn't feel like the characters were as complex. But unlike Sharp Objects, I didn't really have a true idea of what was going on and that gave me anxiety reading this book. I wanted to know so badly that I found myself holding my breath on parts of this book. I would put it down to get some things done and would find myself thinking about it. Waiting to go pick it up again. Like I already mentioned, Gillian Flynn has a gift. A gift of making her books like a drug. She lets you try a little bit and then she builds and builds until you find yourself an addict without even realizing it. Both books did start out a little slow for me, but after the first chapter I was sucked in. I highly recommend! 

I then moved on to another book that was blazing the net this year...... The Fault in our Stars. I read this book in just a couple days. It's a pretty quick read if you have the time. I wouldn't say I was head over heels for it, like so many people seem to be. But I did really find myself becoming attached to the characters.  Hazel & Augustus are cancer patients that meet in a support group. It's the classic story of boy meets girl and falls in love, but with a depressing, sad twist. There really isn't too much to say without ruining the story for you if you want to read it, but I would def recommend it! There is one part that I did fall in love with. A quote in the book that just made me catch my breath. I found myself reading it over and over. It's just so beautiful.....

Now I'm searching for another amazing book! What are you reading??? Follow me on Goodreads and send me some rec's please!

Christy
xoxo

a {me} day...

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Sometimes you just need a "me" day..... As I had mentioned last week, my Husband was away on business. And not just a couple days..... For 6 days. For any of you that have Husband's that travel regularly, I'm sorry. My Husband really only has to do this about once a year and for a couple that has been together just a few months shy of 13 years (I know!), and has probably only spent a few nights apart about 5 times, this was A LOT! Not only was it a very long week with the typical adult responsibilities that come with tending to my house, my child, my pets etc, but it's been a bit of an adjustment recovering as well. So the last couple of days have been divided spending some quality time with my kiddo before he goes back to school, and trying to spend some quality time on myself. Something I really haven't done in great lengths in a while.

Number 1 on the list was find a good book & get lost in it! You see...... The last couple of years I've spent so much time immersed in Holistic Health studies that a majority of my reading has been health/wellness and cookbooks. Not that I don't love reading about these things. I do... I mean I LOVE it...... I'm a self-proclaimed nutrition nerd and usually can't get enough. But lately I've been burnt out and I've decided to take a step back from my original grand plans and the new road of goals does not include reading wellness book after wellness book.

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Last year I read Gone Girl, and to be honest.... I didn't end up liking it very much. It was very well written and the first half of the book I couldn't put it down. The fact of the matter is that I started to hate one of the main characters, Amy Dunne. And I mean HATE. I can't really say too much more without spoiling anything for you, so I'll leave it at that. But it was enough that I didn't enjoy the rest of the book very much and I wasn't sure if I would pick up another book by Gillian Flynn. However, when I saw a friend from the blogisphere, the lovely Ashley, raving about Sharp Objects, I decided to check it. I'm so glad I did!!!! I started the book last night and was immediately sucked into this world of weird. I haven't been able to put it down and I think I'll definitely be finished by tomorrow. I just know that there's an evil little twist coming. I think I might have it figured out. But one thing I've definitely gathered, after reading even only 1 of Gillian Flynn's books, is that just when you think you have it all figured out, she throws a deliciously crazy twist your way! I can't wait to report back with my overall review of the book. Something I think I might do on this little blog o' mine from time to time.

Other than that I think I'm going to have a nice cup of tea and settle down with my Little Mr. It's a rainy/muggy day here in NJ, so I have the windows closed, AC on, and am pretending that I'm already well into the Fall. Coming Soon...... I'll be reviewing a 3 day Cleanse by Kaeng Raeng! I'm super excited about this, as I've wanted to try it forever!!! I'm just gearing my body up for it. My allergies have been so bad, my body just feels like it's recovering from a lot lately. I def can't wait to share my 3 day diary of my experience with you!

Christy
xoxo

Friday Favorites ~ Latest Lust List

Happy Friday Lovelies! I took an unintentional break this week. My Husband was traveling for work and there has been so much going on without him here, that before I knew it, several days went by since my last blog post!!! I have had nothing but boots, coats, scarves, beauty products and school supplies on the brain! I am definitely not in summer mode anymore and just can't wait to get into a Fall routine when my little guy goes back to school! Here is my latest lust list.....

I have been obsessed with nail polish lately, but I def have certain criteria a laquer must meet in order for me to use it. Funny enough, even though I've seen Julep all over the net the last couple years and have been dying to try it, I never have. I've seen rave reviews over these gorgeous laquers and love that they are not only toxin-free, but have staying power as well! I'm smitten with this combination right now. The blue or green creme with the sparkly gold accent or even used as a french tip *******sigh. Love!

I've never placed an order with Conversation Pieces before. However, I think that's going to change very very soon. I subscribe to the newsletter and spied these lovelies recently that have definitely been on my mind. I'm swooning over this basic tee with fluttery sheer detail, as well as these ultra-feminine and sexy lace bralettes. And this tissue baseball tee is perfection!

And finally...... unless you've been living under a rock, you know that one of the most anticipated designer collabs with Target is very quickly approaching! Phillip Lim for Target hits stores September 15th and I cannot wait! I wouldn't say I'm dying over every single piece, but there are quite a few I'm hoping to snap up. My most coveted are this messenger bag and cami set. So so pretty!

What are your latest fall fav's? Are you excited for Phillip Lim for Target? Have a great weekend!!!


Christy
xoxo

Friday Favorites - More Lovely clothes & a Kickass workout!!!

Hey Dolls!!! I'm so happy it's Friday! I had quite a busy week and am really looking forward to the summer wrapping up, the Fall weather (we got a little taste this week here in NJ), and for school to start! Lately I've been feeling like everything is moving in fast forward and though I'm so thankful for the amazing opportunities I've come across lately, I just need life to slow down a little bit! This is going to sound corny, but there's just something so magical to me about the Fall/Winter months. To me it's just pure nostalgia. Even the smell in the air brings me back to waking up on Saturday mornings to the marching band doing a quick run through before a Football game (the HS Football Field was on my street). I loved those days of sitting at games with my cozy sweatshirt on, sipping hot chocolate. Now things are a bit different. Today it's me chasing my son to put a sweatshirt on and instead of football games, we're watching soccer or walking around Peddlar's Village with an Apple Cider in hand. But you get my drift. I'm so ready for it! Can you tell?!? So obviously with Fall constantly on my mind, I have some more favorites for you. J.Crew is one of my most fav stores ever, and over the last few months the Factory store, which is about 45m from me, has been hit or miss. I was so excited to see that there are some great finds amongst the new arrivals! Here are a few of my must-haves...

One of the best things about JCF is the basics! Every year I always find myself snapping up a bunch of pieces that are perfect for my core wardrobe and can easily be dressed up or down with either a statement necklace or delicate pendant. I already own both the Layering Tee & the Always Cardi, but I love them so much, that I always grab multiples of my fav color (for when one bites the dust) or new colors to add variety. Navy is a must for me always. I love that it works like basic black, but is a bit unexpected. I'm also majorly obsessed with Camel & Gray, alone or layered together. They just exude coziness to me. I love these Waffle Sweaters and def plan on grabbing more than one! I adore the touch of soft oatmeal in the collar of the colorblock sweater!!!

I love a great tailored jean. This hiney is not fitting into skinnies anytime soon, scroll down for more on that.... But this bootcut pair is perfect! I could see this skirt being a great work staple for you office gals and then paired with tights, argyles, and wellies for a crisp Fall weekend. And even though I don't typically like Cords, I'm swooning over the soft, velvety color of this pair.

Last but not least, I had to round out my finds with a couple extras. Since I'm all about layering, I love a couple pieces that add a little oomph to a very basic outfit. This blazer is knit, so it's not as structured as wool, keeping it casual, but is a little more tailored than a thicker cardi. And this vest is perfect layered with a thin waffle sweater! I'd also love it with a pair of cute skinnies & sorel's, but I need to do a little prep work for that, see below....




As stated in my reference above, I need to get my ass in gear..... literally. I tend to get really bored with workouts and though I love my TAM & Tone it Up girls, I can lose interest really quickly if I don't mix it up. Enter the coolest, most unique, most KICK ASS workout I have ever seen!!! I came across Poundfit when Kirsten & Cristina shared their amazing & healthy Key Lime Pie Parfait recipe over on FabFitFun the other day. I immediately became curious when I saw them referenced as "The Pound Girls" so of course I had to explore and, wow. Blew... Me... Away... First off, when I find a workout I really like, I'm a fanatic. I love fitness, especially when I get sucked into it. It's like my own personal & free Therapist. Not that I need one ;) But there's a bit of a backstory as to why Poundfit is so appealing to me. My Dad is a Drummer, and a pretty freakin amazing one at that. A lot of my childhood I went with him to his band practices and got to see him play. I totally believe it's in my blood, even if it's not in my hands. I did try to learn when I was about 12, but lets just say that I didn't pick it up. I lacked the coordination that goes with drumming and foot pedaling and hitting the symbols, etc. It's just too much for my sporadic brain to wrap itself around. But I often find myself, even now, wanting to drum to songs. The beats jump out at me and I'm just dying to rock out! I believe that Poundfit is the perfect solution for all of my drumming woes. It's a workout that burns MAJOR calories, unique enough to satisfy my wandering eye, and lets me rock out the way I was born to!!! For anyone that doesn't have a class near them, they offer online classes, which are going on my Birthday list... hint hint Husband ;) I'll def be posting my review once I try them!!!

So there's my Friday Fav's. Kinda short this week with all the JCF finds, but I have a lot planned for next week. Happy Weekend all! Enjoy!!!!

Christy
xoxo