Big Girl Big World

27.5 Weeks and My Baby Girl is Cooking!

2012-04-25T10:02:00.001-04:00

I have blown up! I am about 7 months pregnant but I look like I am nine months! Everywhere I go people are holding doors and pulling out chairs for me... I love it, but it is awkward and hard to get use to. None the less, I am loving my beautiful baby bump but most importantly I am falling deeper and deeper in love with this amazing itty,-bitty baby girl growing inside me.

New Baby...New Decor

2012-04-15T21:40:00.000-04:00

My fiance and I have come to the conclusion that our baby girl will not have her own room, she will room with us. Now, let me say that our room is small and this is going to be a challenge. We considered putting her nursery in her brothers room, but we don't want to disturb him all through the night so that idea was scratched quickly. So with my last trimester quickly approaching we are in overdrive trying to reorganize our bedroom to accommodate our little princess. With such limited space we have had to be creative and opted against traditional baby furniture sets and found our own individual pieces to mix and match. (Plus we are trying to save some serious money this time around.) Below is what we have purchased for the baby.

DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Crib with Toddler Rail in Ebony $249

overstock.com

Lambs & Ivy Duchess 9-Piece Crib Bedding Set $199

toysrus.com

MALM 3 drawer chest, black/brown $79

Ikea Atlanta

GULLIVER Changing table, white $69

Ikea Atlanta

( We will be painting this black and I will post pics!)

I am so happy that we are done shopping for baby furniture. With our first child we spent well over $2000 for just our son's crib, changing table, and chest. This time around We have spent a total of $397 plus tax on a crib, dresser, and changing table. We had set aside a budget of $1500 for the baby's furniture originally, and since we are well below our budget we are able to afford redecorating our bedroom to match our babies. I haven't made any purchases for our new decor, but all I am going to do is change the wall paint, change our bedding, and remove all our current decoration and replace them with things that fit our new decor. I am searching the web for potential bedding and I will go to Home Depot this week to pick out the paint. I am so excited to start getting our babies room together! I am seriously nesting right now!

The Circle of Life

2012-04-15T08:27:00.000-04:00

It is pretty obvious that I am not so consistent with posting on my blog and I really hate that because there is no excuse for it. In November 2011 I was ready to launch this huge comeback and totally devote myself to my YouTube channel as well as my blog when I found out some life changing news... I was pregnant and the news could not have come at a more trying time. 3 days before I found out I was pregnant I was let go from my long time employer. To some, that might not mean much but to a woman like me, it meant everything. Though I love being a mother and soon to be wife, I love my sense of independence as well. Working outside of the home has given me that and it is difficult to let it go, but none the less I embrace every part of my life positively and this one is no different.

Getting over the immediate shock of my pregnancy was easy, telling my family was not some much. I struggled with the appropriate time to release the good news to my family because of some serious concerns. Sadly in 2008 my fiance and I lost our second child and at that time I was told that I would have a difficult time conceiving naturally in the future. Devastated, I struggled with the loss of my unborn child as well as the news about not being able to conceive. As the years went on, I had come to accept the news and because I was so grateful to have a healthy, beautiful, and amazing little boy already I basically "let go and let God."

Now 4 years later, I am so happy and so blessed to be pregnant again. It has not been without complications, but amazingly through the grace of God I am currently 26 weeks pregnant. I told most of my family and very close friends when I was around 8 weeks pregnant. I later made a Face Book announcement for the rest of my friends and extended family, on Valentines Day 2012 when I was about 17 weeks. Now that I am more than halfway through my pregnancy, I feel more comfortable posting about it as well as announce changes to my blog.

At first I wanted my blog to be strictly a plus size fashion blog but with all the changes in my life, I feel I should slightly change the direction of my blog as well. "Big Girl Big World" will be just that. It will about a big girl (myself) and how I navigate through life. It will be filled with outfit post, beauty tips ( because you girls know I love my weave and make up), life style tips, decorating advise, cooking tips, etc. Being a young mom and balancing kids, a man, a house, bills, and work, all while trying to look good while doing it is not easy. I just want to add my view points and advise to the world while doing so. :-)

Kim K and Summer Color Blocking

2011-06-30T15:32:00.002-04:00

Ms. Kardashian looks absolutely gorgeous rocking a Elise Overland Poet Sleeve Dress. Then to take her outfit to another level she paired it with a purple lace-up platform sandal from Giuseppe Zanotti.

Rest in Peace Mia

2011-05-11T08:34:00.003-04:00

When news broke yesterday that plus size trailblazer, Mia Amber passed away; I was completely floored to say the least. Mia was an educated and sophisticated woman that never let her curves stop her from pursuing her dreams. From producing television shows, to acting, to modeling, Mia accomplished a lot in her short time here with us. With everything she did, Mia consistently shinned a light on the plus size community, helping in its validations within main stream media today. Mia's beauty is unmatched and her confidence, talent, ambition, and perseverance are just some of her attributes that young women look up to her for... Mia Amber will truly be missed.

Muy Caliente Brit Brit!!

2011-03-10T14:18:00.002-05:00

Where the hell is Spring?

2011-01-23T08:25:00.009-05:00

Its official: I'm SOOOOO over winter! I'm over wearing coats and gloves, and if I see another snow flake... I am going going to knock Old Man Winter the hell out! Ahhh, now that I have gotten all that off my chest I feel a whole lot better.

When Atlanta was hit with that huge ice storm, a few weeks ago, I had a chance to start window shopping (online of course) for my potential spring wardrobe, and all I can say is, "I love the 60's and 70's!" I am ecstatic to see all the clothing inspired from the 60's and 70's, and everyone that knows me, knows I am completely and overly OBSESSED with the whole hippy, disco, Studio 54, free love era. Some of my most favorite books were written either in that time period or written about that time. So naturally, my most adored fashion trends also come from this era and I see TONS of items reflecting that this season. I'm seeing flowy fabrics, floral prints, chunky heels, sequins; just all things girlie and glamorous.

One of my New Years Resolutions ( besides trying to drop a dress size) is to try to incorporate more color in to my everyday wardrobe. And by color I mean any color, besides black, gray, and white. I am addicted to those colors and I need to break out of that cycle. Anyways let me quit rambling and show you all my "Spring Wish List" for 2011...

All items are from:
Asos.com
Solestruck.com
essentialapparel.com
modcloth.com

If You Didn't Know I Vlog on Youtube...

2011-01-04T01:14:00.002-05:00

2010...2011!!!!!

2011-01-02T22:02:00.018-05:00

My life has been nothing short of a roller coaster the last year, so believe me when I say I am happy to see 2011 come around. All year long I have been hit with disappointment, heart ache, and depression, and I did not know what to make of all of it, or how to handle it. Every time I thought things were turning around for me, I was hit with something else.

In August, my fiance of six years called off our engagement, one month later, my best friend of 20 years turned her back on me and choose a man over our friendship. It was ridiculous, I didn't know what to do with myself. If I wasn't crying, I was doing nothing at all. I was like a robot, I woke, got my son dressed, sent him to school, I went to work, left work, picked up my son, cooked dinner, cleaned up, and stayed up all night sulking about my life's current circumstances, and I would get up and do it all over again the next day. I was in this zombie like state for weeks, until one day I had an encounter with the mother of an old friend, that would change my life forever.

I haven't seen my friend's mom in a few years but the second I seen her and sat next to her, my life's complications came flowing out. She sat down and listened to me without judgment, without saying a word. When I was done talking, I was crying like a 3 year old child that just lost her mother in the grocery store. At that time, Ms. Ann ( my friend's mother) grabbed my hands and looked at me and said simply, " Now, Gina with everything you just said to me, what do you want to do about it all, because crying is going to get old...?" To some that might seem like nothing, but to me at that time, that was the first person to say this to me. That statement radiated through my soul, because up until then I had not thought about my new future... my new game plan. So that night I went home and sat at the end of my bed and talked to God like He was one of my homies...LOL! I laid it all out and I asked God to grant me mental peace and emotional stability, to figure out what I should be doing with my life, and from that night, I no longer cried, I no longer worried, I just LIVED. I started enjoying the little things in my life again and began to deal with the hand I was dealt and I quickly realized what blessings I was given by letting go and letting God do his thing.

So here I am, I turned 26 years old in November, and its a whole new year and I don't think that I have ever felt more positive, creative, or hopeful about my future. I am happy to say I am no longer afraid of being alone, cutting people out of my life that truly did nothing to benefit me or my walk in life was cleansing. I was given some "She-Time" to reevaluate my life and the people in it and I am truly content with my life right now and with my inner circle. In these few short months I have accomplished one wonderful thing: I have moved into my first house and I cant wait to upload pictures of it! Its nothing special but its mines. I'm still painting and my furniture won't be here for a few more days, but I am so excited, because I did this by myself, and by doing this, it gave me the confidence I needed to move on and set bigger goals for myself. So from this point on its only up from here for me, because for the first time, in a long time I am learning to appreciate myself and all I do and can do with a little hard work and dedication. I have an amazing family and amazing friends and I wouldn't change that for nothing in the world, SO SEE YA LATER 2010 AND WATCH OUT 2011 BECAUSE GINA IS OUT TO SHUT IT DOWN!

Brand New Plus Size Store!!!

2010-09-24T16:19:00.003-04:00

No words need to be spoken about this new store... just check it out for yourself♥ ♥♥

Beth Ditto for Evans

2010-09-17T09:04:00.010-04:00

Beth Ditto's fall line for Evans was released this morning online, and from first appearances I am really liking what I see, its definitely a fierce and funky line. I have to admit, I was a bit nervous about the line lacking pieces that I could wear personally, because my own style is not as eccentric as Beth's herself, but I was extremely happy to see a lot of pieces that are very wearable. These are the pieces that I will be ordering...

Marc Jacob ♥ Curvey Girls

2010-08-09T19:52:00.003-04:00

Over the past few days I have been hearing a lot of buzz about famed designer, Marc Jacobs, and whether or not he could be in works to launch a plus size line for us extra thick chicks. Well, while on one of my daily reads, "The Luxist", I came past an article basically confirming that very thing. As I read the article, I actually clapped my hands and giggled like a 10 year old school girl.

In the article, it stated that Robert Duffy, president of Marc Jacobs' label, confirmed via Twitter that the designer is in the beginning stages of creating a line of clothing for women over a size 14. Not much else was released about the future line , but anticipation is definitely growing among the plus size community. Personally, I am truly happy to see designers are starting to be aware of and really respect the plus size movement. I hate that people associate being fat/curvy with being lazy and sloppy, because that is so not true and believe me, I have seen a good bit of lazy/sloppy skinny people in my day. Haha. But seriously, its great to know that stores are starting to expand their plus size departments and designers are ready to buck and go against the grain and offer clothing for all types of women. I mean really, no matter what a woman's size might be, if she loves fashion and is willing to spend good money on it, why, as a designer, would you limit the amount of people that could enjoy your clothing... its just hurting your pockets at the end of the day. I'm just say....

CONGRATS @GABIFRESH!!!

2010-08-08T23:05:00.005-04:00

I stayed up past my bed time to watch Miss Gabi of Young,Fat and Fabulous become MTV's first TJ (Twitter Jockey). Gabi busted her booty hard the last few weeks, completing several different challenges, in order to get this job, and did I mention this job pays out $100K!!! OMG... all I want to say is CONGRATS GABI have the time of your life in the NYC and keep representing for the curvy women of America!!!!!!!

Monif C... You've done it again!!!

2010-08-06T18:00:00.043-04:00

While searching the web for my fall must haves and potential birthday outfits I had a few things in mind...super bold, super sexy, and all around fierce pieces to add to my collection. And then I ventured on to Monif C's website and OMG I AM IN LOVE....again!! Monif C is back with a banging fall line... full of sexy, body hugging dresses and beautiful bold colors and designs. This was exactly what I was looking for. If you are looking to update your look or step out of your box in a tasteful way, Monif C has got exactly what your looking for...

Visually these two jumpsuits are beyond gorgeous...beyond fierce. The Leopard Print number screams Studio 54 to me and anyone who knows me, knows I am infatuated with all things 70's. The Fire Print jumpsuit makes me think of South Beach in the 80's, either way it goes, they are exactly the type of outfits that a confident diva ( like myself) would love to wear. These outfits worn correctly will for sure turn heads, just remember to keep it simple and let the jumpsuit speak for its self. I have to admit though, I am a bit worried about how these jumpsuits will look on my body just because my tummy is my biggest problem area, so much so, that I did not wear a romper or a pair of shorts all summer long. So I will probably wait to try these on in the store before purchasing one.

Back for the fall are Monif C's Marilyn Convertible Dresses, but this new version will have your sexy lady swag turnt up to the max... with the jersey material ruched and done in bold jewel tones, this dress will have you loving your curves. By the way, can I just say model Fluvia Lacerda is wearing the hell out of these dresses. I definitely will be picking up this dress in either black or red... paired with the new Yves Saint Laurent Leopard Print Pump (in my dreams) or with some other reasonably priced pair of leopard print pumps... OMG I will definitely be a show stopper. The Convertible dress is still offered in the original design it was last season, long or short and flowy. If you are afraid of not knowing how to tie the dress, don't worry, on the Monif C website they offer a link for you to watch videos on how to tie the dress...FYI they said they have created 22 different looks from this one dress. So pick one up.... you clearly will get your moneys worth.

View the entire Fall collection here...

Head Over Heels for these Heels!

2010-06-25T13:54:00.015-04:00

There is a new man in my life and his name is Jeffrey Campbell. When I first laid eyes on his creations I knew I was hooked for life. His boots are conversation starters, they command attention, so believe me when I say, when you walk into a room wearing these shoes all eye will be on you... well actually your feet. They are priced around $150.00 and up and they are worth every single penny. These are just a few I am drooling over right now...

All shoes available at http://www.solestruck.com/

My Summer Must Haves!!!!

2010-06-23T15:57:00.018-04:00

Blazing hot summer sun... swimming pools... beach water... humidity... all of these factors do a number on my hair and skin, and by the fall, I am left desperately trying to reverse the damage it caused. So every Spring I go on a search for products that will help keep me looking refreshed and fabulous all summer long. These are the 10 products that I have fallen in love with so far:

Row 1 ( Left to Right)

1. Nars Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base -> $24.00

2. OPI- I Think in Pink Nail Polish ->$4.75

3. Fekkai Apple Cider Clarifying Shampoo ->$24.00

Row 2 ( Left to Right)
4. Borba Atomizer ->$20.00

5. Mac Lipstick in Beach Bound ->$14.00

6. Shanghai Gir l -> $9.50 ( Gotta keep the brain refreshed too! ha ha!)

Row 3 ( Left to Right)
7. Philosophy Hope Oil Free Moisturizer SPF 30 -> $45.00

8. Eucerin Plus Intensive Repair Lotion ->$11.49

Row 4 ( Left to Right)
9. Carl's Daughter Body Jelly ->$15.00

10.Nivea A Kiss of Moisture Lip Balm-> $3.00 @ Wal-Mart

I realize some of these sticker prices might be a bit higher than some pay for products like shampoo or facial moisturizer. But believe me when I say, "You get what you pay for with beauty products". I have very sensitive skin so I don't skip out on quality just because of the price tag. Now with that said, you will not see me out buying $100.00 bottles of lotion because someone recommended it to me. My momma always taught me to know what I'm buying... in other words, "Don't get caught up in the hype!" (i.e. eye shadow stickers) It might work for some but not for others, so don't your waste money because everyone else is. Take the time to research products that you are interested in. Remember, most stores will give you samples to take home and try or will let you sample the products in the store. So try it before you buy it!

This is only the beginning...

2010-06-16T14:45:00.008-04:00

“Be daring, be different, be impractical, be anything that will assert integrity of purpose and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary.” - Cecil Beaton

This is were my story begins... Atlanta, Georgia, home to more than just the Bull Dogs and the Hawks. Atlanta has turned into a sort of mecca, for young, eager up and comers to get their chance to"Make it ", or at least "Fake it Until they Make it". Whether it be in music, fashion, food or the arts, Atlanta is becoming the New York City of the south. And I am right in the middle of all the action!

My name is Gina, I'm a 25 years old and I haven't "Made it" nor am I "Faking it " to do so. I'm like most young 20-somethings; working day to day to make a living, doing what I need to do in order to achieve my goals. My goals in life our set around my passions... my loves... my addictions! I call them my "Five F's"... they are Family, Friends, Food, Fun, and FASHION!!!

I am a self- proclaimed fashionista and I am a size 18! In this blog, I will be talking about fashion and the way I see it . Shopping is NOT an easy task and being plus sized, doesn't make it any easier. I shop everywhere... from Neiman Marcus to Express to Dots. I love bargains, so I try to not to buy anything full price. I love trends, but I am not a fool. If it doesn't work on my body or if it looks flat out ridiculous, you will not see me wearing it.

Also, I will also highlight events going on all around Atlanta and other cities, dealing with food, fashion, music and the arts. (I mean, come on... who doesn't like to get dressed up to go to a new restaurant opening or the opening of a new art exhibit?) Culture is important to me and I am opened to learning new things. I am a BIG GIRL in a BIG WORLD, and nothing will stop me from enjoying life.