live, Learn, LOVE.. and Look Good!

CARA Mid-Program Review

2012-11-10T08:54:00.002-08:00

Hey Everyone

I have just completed my 5^th week and I’m over half way through the beginning running program with CARA.

If you didn’t know CARA stands for the Chicago Area Runners Association.

The Misson of CARA: Expanding, motivating, supporting, and celebrating the running community of Chicagoland. We want to connect you to resources that enable you to run—farther, faster, better, for life.

I started my running journey in Level 1, which included running for 1 minute and walking for 2 for 20 total minutes. I wasn’t challenged enough and though scared, I decided to move into Level 2 the following week. In Level 2, week 2, I Ran for 1.5 minutes and walked for 2 for 20 minutes. The CARA program builds and increasing the amount of running each week.

For week 3, I ran for 24 total minutes, running for 1 minute walking for 1.Week 4 was 21 total minutes, running for 2 minutes and walking for 30 seconds

Most weeks I run on the treadmill before or after my classes at LAFitness, but find it much more challenging to run outside. In week 5, I ran for 2.5 minutes and walked for only 30 seconds for a total of 24 minutes. My Pace runner and program manager stated that running outside is definitely more difficult and to incline the treadmill to 1, as to mimic the feel of concrete outside.

I have a much slower pace than my group, but the program manager said not to be concerned. I have the ability to run for longer periods, which is the foundation for building speed later on.

What I like most about CARA is stretching myself beyond the gym. I like exercising outside in fresh air and making new friends in the running community. This has been such a help to my weight loss journey. In the last 5 weeks I have lost 10lbs since running with CARA. I have been on my weight loss journey for 16 months and lost a total of 102lbs.

Stay tuned to CARA and my Facebook Page for updates about running, healthy living and weight loss.

CARA RockStar Runners Facebook Group

Office Fashion for the Curvy Fashionista

2012-08-11T18:06:00.000-07:00

Took a Few Snap Shots while working at my Church Office, where I serve on the Web Development Team. Serving God and my Congregation is extremely rewarding.
Today's business Look features items ordered from K&G Fashion SuperStore. My dad treated me to over $140 worth of gift cards. I had no idea what to expect from this retailer, especially the fit of their Plus/Curvy Sizes. Everything worked out wonderfully. The fuchsia pencil skirt is a thick, figure flattering material and the black and white polka dot blouse with a pussy bow is very chic. I accessorized the outfit with paten leather Mary Janes and bold Purple rhinestone statement earrings.

Njoy the Pics!

Huge Blog Sale

2012-07-23T21:45:00.002-07:00

Hey Guys I am selling my whole Closet find everything at www.lindseyblogsale.blogspot.com

All the details are on the blog and feel free to throw out negotiations, multiple items purchase will include a reduction in price.

Some of the Items FOR SALE are featured Below: ( LOTS more on blog )

LMA: Blog Feature #WeightLoss

2012-07-09T12:10:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys Heres a link to my feature on: Manage Me Healthy!

Check it Out Here !

Aretha Franklin & N'DIGO Foundation Gala

2012-07-02T20:18:00.002-07:00

WOW what a night! I got dressed up with the ladies and headed out to the Arie Crown theater for the N'DIGO Foundation 2012 Gala. The N’DIGO Foundation is a charity dedicated to rewarding college scholarships to Chicago high school students.
The night started with a performance by the Impressions, followed by Ms. Aretha Franklin herself. Aretha put on a full concert with a tribute to Whitney Houston. After the closing song, the terrace was opened for drinks, eats and networking. I was honored to be invited by my friend Samantha Mitchell of Eminent PR Group.

njoy the pics!!

The Attire for the night was formal and I re-used my ASOS Curve dress from NYE. I re-styled it with a Pink Skinny belt also from ASOS Curve and Over-sized Pink Pearl Necklace, Pearl earrings and clutch from Bakers Shoes.

Samantha Mitchell of Eminent PR Group.

live, Learn, LOVE

~Lindsey

Custom Stiletto Nails by Spifster

2012-05-31T17:50:00.001-07:00

Finally I have my Dream Nails done by Tacarra Sutton AKA Spifster

I Love the New Stiletto Shape meaning Pointy like a heal... They accentuate my style!

I got a Full Set and Sort Spif which mean 3-4 different designs per hand. You can book an appointment with Spifster on StyleSeat This definitely is a specialty services doubling my normal nail budget from $16.00 to $45.00 each appointment. But I will more than likely stay with her through the summer. She does have some cheaper and More expensive rates depending on what you want.

These are my Nails Freshly Done after the Appointment

My Nails 7 Days Later ....close up shots of the designs

Unfortunately I suffered Lifted acrylic which then popped off the entire Nails after only 3 days. But Spifster Quickly respond to my email and fixed the nail for Free after I explained that it didn't break but was not bonded down to the nail bed. So I will see how long they last throughout the 2nd week and decided about my next appointment

UPDATE: Unfortunately within the next week, I suffered 2 more lifted nails and another popped off. I did not get my nails done again my Spifster due to this problem. The nails popped off like press ons. I still love the designs and would go back again for that service only after a fresh set/ fill in from another Salon.

live Learn LOVE

Lindsey *~

Lets talk about Fashion ..Plus Fashion Week Chicago Meet-up

2012-05-31T16:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I Traveled to the North Loop for another event with Plus Fashion Week Chicago. This event: "Lets Talk About Fashion" was a night of fashion and entertainment featuring wonderful bloggers, designers, stylists and fashion enthusiasts. Held at the Fabulous Public Hotels

njoy *

My Outfit of the Night was mostly from Forever21 Skirt from the Plus Size line, Tank from straight sizes , The blazer & belt have been featured before and are from the Thrift Store and ASOS.

Wonderful Night full of Fabulous Ladies

live, Learn, LOVE

Lindsey *~

Big Girl Cosmetics Pre Launch PARTY!

2012-04-14T18:11:00.002-07:00

I was alerted by EventBrite of an amazing event happening right in my Neighborhood for Big Girl Cosmetics. It was a pre-launch party to celebrate their collaboration and distribution with Macy's. CEO and owner Kiley Russell, talked to me about her Company's name meaning "Live Life BIG!!! " It was a wonderful event, with amazing sponsors, DJ and ambiance at Room 43

njoy Pics and my Plus Size Outfit Fashion breakdown

Outfit of the Night: Fashion Breakdown:
Blazer with Pink strip Lining: Thrifted
Pink n White Nautical Top: Dress from Forever21
Black Skirt : Dress for Forever21 +
Black Flats: Charlotte Russe
Pink Skinny Belt: ASOS Curve
Bracelets and Earrings: Random fashion Stores

Spoken Life Chicago 2: Review + Outfit

2012-04-14T17:40:00.000-07:00

I am in Awe of MY GOD..... Spoken Life Chicago 2 tore down chains and barriers at the New Life Covenant ( Power of One) Singles Event. Spoken Life Chicago is a Gospel Poetry Ministry. I had an amazing God encountering time of testimonies through spoken word.
.

Njoy my Outfit of the night, Event Pictures and Sneak Video into the Spoken Life Project: Chicago

Outfit of the Night : Fashion Breakdown
Pleated Skirt: Torrid
Pink Blazer: Thrifted
Basic black T: Rainbow
Gold Belt: ASOS Curve
Earring & Ring: Grandmothers Vintage Gifts
Bracelet: NYC Harlem
Tights: Kmart
Black Boots: Avenue

live, Learn, LOVE

~ Lindsey

Pink n white Pinstripe

2012-04-10T20:03:00.001-07:00

Hey BooCats
Finally an Outfit out the day, which I love more than videos.
Today's outfit was assembled for an Entrepreneurship seminar. I love all these pieces together because it puts Style....a.k.a Swag... into business professional attire. I attend a lot of networking and development seminars, but always want to showcase my fashion sense.
njoy

Shirt: Thrifted - Mens XL Ralph Lauren for Champs
Skirt: Forever21+ Dress made into a High Waisted Skirt
Shoes: Sears- Mary Jane Patent leather
Tights: Kmart
Hair Flower: Shi by Journeys
Earnings: Vintage Grandmother
Pink Skinny Belt: ASOS Curve

live, Learn, Love
~Lindsey &hearts;

Weight Loss Journey: First 49lb Down ! Goals & Plan

2012-03-09T21:45:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone

I decided that after 8 months that I would start sharing my weight loss journey. Weight is a Sensitive subject for me, but I know that it is only God's Grace and help from my Family & Friends that got me here and I want to be a light to others who deal with obesity and self image issues.

Below is my First video in the Vlog series about: GOALS AND PLANS.

I started my WLJ ( weight loss journey ) at 307 lbs and today I am 258 on 3/8/12. I have lost a total of 49lbs. and want to achieve my healthy BMI of 150lbs. I am 5'5 and have been over weight MY WHOLE LIFE. This is a MIND, BODY and SOUL journey that will take so many tools and support to reach my 157lb loss. Currently I am working towards 10lbs per month.

live, Learn, LOVE
~Lindsey

4C Natural Hair Blown Out n Curled Up!

2012-03-08T05:13:00.000-08:00

As my hair has grown out a lot and styling can sometime be more difficult. I blow dryed my hair using the Conair Styler 1875 and used Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque and Pure Coconut oil on my hair. I protected my hair with the SILK ELEMENTS MEGA SILK HEAT PROTECTION SPRAY
I foamed rolled my 4c natural hair, setting it with Jamaican Mango & Lime Locking Gel.
The results created a cute curl pattern for my afro,but didnt give it a smooth roller set look. The curls only lasted a few days in this tight curl patten, but loosed very quickly. I have experienced longer lasting roller set results,without blowing out my hair first.

Review: Jamaican Mango & Lime Locking Gel Resistant Formula
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQ811lSI7oE

Review: Silk Elements Heat Protection Spray http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpi4Udrbhio

Shea Moisture Deep Masque Review:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guhNdFfzJVc

live, Learn, Love

~Lindsey

Plus Fashion Week Chicago Soiree

2012-03-07T18:46:00.003-08:00

Hey Ladies and Gents

I was so excited to attend Plus Fashion Week Chicago, Launch/Soiree event at the 520 N Michigan's Charming Charlie. Plus Fashion Week's founder Myisha Hall served for many seasons at Full Figure Fashion Week NYC . She is excited to bring fabulous Plus Fashions to the Midwest with her slogan "Plus is More"

The event featured many Plus bloggers, models, personal stylists, designers and supports. I had a great time catching with everyone and creating buzz about the upcoming Plus Size Fashion Week. The event will be held October 17th - 21st at various locations throughout Chicago.

enjoy the pics

live, Learn, LOVE

~Lindsey

H&M+... Where is the FASHION !

2012-02-23T08:14:00.000-08:00

Hey Blogger Followers!

I am posting today about my disappointing Joy in the newly re-launched H&M+. I am a huge lover of H&M but can only fit their Accessories and Shoes..lol.

Lo and behold ..I was elated to hear that they launched their former BIB plus size line ....to the new H&M+ in the U.S, in very few selected stores. Thankfully the Michigan Ave store here in Chicago carries the line.

I went in the store EXPECTING to find FAB High End Replicas, Bright, Bold, Edgy, Colorful looks for my Shape & Size. But to my disappointment NONE of that was found.

The line was very, very small consisting of maybe 20 pieces.. with about 2 items with color. The rest were all Black, White, Cream and Grey.

WTH! Where is the COLOR, shapes and Embellishments... WHERE IS THE FASHION!!!!

Below are some of the items featured on the website.

I will be Prayerful that H&M+ will extended their line, seeing as Plus size women spent $17.5 billion in sales in the 12 months ending in April 2011.... Until then I may pick up a Black or Cream Blazer for my Wardrobe and keep it Pushin.

live, Learn, LOVE

~*Lindsey

Marvelous Life n Christ

2012-02-13T20:58:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone I am so excited to premier to you Marvelous life: Christian apparel for Women and Girls. Shani the designer sent me some items for review and I love them. Added bonus: They come in PLUS SIZES!! I love all the designs, brights colors and girlie accents. She also sells buttons and posters on her website. I am always so proud to showcase my Love for Christ through Marvelous Life apparel and have the chance to minister to someone. Marvelous Life is holding a Contest in which 2 wonderful people will win: one T-shirt, buttons and a poster. Watch the video in this post for all the rules and details. This is a business you want to support, think of all the women and especially Teens that need positive Christ Centered influence in their lives.

live, learn, LOVE,

Lindsey

Marvelolus Life Promise:
I promise to:
Love God and His ways.
Encourage peace, rather than conflict.
Love instead of hate.
Strength and not weakness.
Hope and not despair.
Faith in God and not in this world.

Marvelous Life is about encouraging values and morality in girls and young women through apparel, print and other items. ❤

ENTER TO WIN YOUR OWN MARVELOUS LIFE T-shirt
Contest Video:

Bobbi Boss hair extensions Pictorial and Update

2012-01-03T15:14:00.000-08:00

Hey loves,

I got a request to show off my hair extensions from Bobbi boss. I purchased them off ebay.com and got 3 packs of hair for around $250.00. This hair is pricey because of its longevity and quality. I really like this hair I have wore hair extensions A.K.A WEAVE since I was 15 and this has to be my favorite beauty supply brand thus far.

The Positives ( +)
- The hair has a high luster look which keeps it looking healthier and thicker
- The hair has great flow and movement to it
- The yaki texture gives the hair a realist look and feel
- The 16, 14, 12 inches lengths. I love wearing long hair and the different inches create layers without cutting.
- Holds a great curl and it will last throughout the day
- bounces back, looking better after being washed and it becomes softer
- needs no product to keep the shine

The Negatives ( -)
- Tangles, it needs to be brushed a few time a day and especially at night
- It Sheds, meaning hair falls out when being brushed which thins the hair and creates a mess on the floor
- The hair is best maintained when it is kept just straight, when curls or waves are styled into the hair it gets even more tangled.

So over all I love the hair and think it was a great purchase, I will be removing the extensions in another 4 weeks to give my hair a break. I will be purchasing/ reviewing Virgin hair next, which will give me a better outlook on Remy hair vs. Virgin Hair.

njoy the pictures.

live, Learn, LOVE

Lindsey

New Years Eve & Asos Curve

2012-01-03T14:22:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone, I wanted to share with you my dress from ASOS Curve. The shipping was fast and the dress was under a $100.00. The dress was everything I imgained when I saw it online. ASOS.com is a UK company that has trendy, unique fashions for straight and plus sizes men and women. Also everything goes on clearance fast. This Dress is a US size 18 was true to fit from measurements on the size chart. I love the 2 layers of mesh skirting and bodice cut of the dress is classic. I will order again from Asos Curve because of their great fashion and prices. Enjoy the pictures and have a great start to your 2012

live, Learn, LOVE

Lindsey

Summer to Fall Color Blocking

2011-12-06T18:23:00.001-08:00

So I love to find ways to fit my Summer wear into my Fall Wardrobe. Today's Curvy Outfit features a Ruffled Dress that I layered with Fall essentials.

Fashion Breakdown:

Dress: Rainbow

Cardigan: Old Navy

Belt: ASOS Curve

Leggings: Pure Energy (Target)

Flats: charlotte Russe

Jewerly: Vintage

live, Learn, LOVE

Lindsey

Maintaining extensions: Sealing the Weft

2011-11-12T19:50:00.001-08:00

If you didn't know I am a LOVER of all things HAIR!! Natural Hair, extensions,virgin hair, wigs, lace fronts and installation techniques. Today I'm showing my new hair extensions from Bobbi Boss: Indi Remi Natural Yaki. I purchased 3 packs of this hair in 12, 14 and 16 inches long. Bobbi Boss is premium hair, right below virgin hair. Just like real hair, extensions will shed and loose strands during washing, styling and combing. The weft is the material that keeps the strands of hair sewn together. Sealing Wefts is important to keep the hair from excessive shedding. I'm using a weft sealer from Hairextensions101.com. It sells for about $10.00 per 1oz bottle and I used about 1 1/2 bottles. There are some cheaper alternatives such a Fray Block and Fray Check that can be purchased from a local craft store and Walmart.
Bobbi Boss premium hair retails around $100 and Up, per pack. The Longer the hair the more it will cost. I purchased mine off ebay.com and got a great deal. Also check out Myremy.com for all Remy hair deals.

Tools needed are: Old Towel, Brush or Comb, Weft Sealer... patience and time.

To seal your Wefts, lay the extensions over a old towel. Paint the weft sealer ONLY onto the weft. Be very careful not to get any on the hair, as this will cause tangles. Let each section dry and move to the next. Then Flip the extensions over and repeat. This was a slightly long and tedious process but its worth it to keep your extensions looking full and luscious.

I love this weft Sealer because it did not leave a thick, white or caked film on the weft . They still are thin and smooth and ready for my installation.

live, Learn, LOVE

Lindsey

Fashion in Full Motion

2011-11-11T15:10:00.001-08:00

All the Glitters

2011-11-11T13:30:00.001-08:00

Lovin this new nail polish... Milani " Gold Glitz"...super Fast dry and one coat needed. Got it at Target for less than $5

Simple Chic

2011-11-10T20:30:00.001-08:00

Just a simple and Chic Outfit of the Day It was comfortable and I love wearing a bright color in the fall/winter. I like the contrast of the basic colors with the Pop of PINK and especially adore the white and pink pin striped lining of this thrifted blazer !
Fashion Breakdown:
Pink Blazer - Thrifted
Grey Boots: Avenue
Black Jeggings - Ashley Stewart
White T shirt - Rainbow

live, Learn, LOVE

Lindsey

Fall/Winter Akira Fashion Show

2011-11-05T21:07:00.000-07:00

Hey Loves
I attended the AKIRA Fall/Winter Fashion show this past Thursday night. Featuring ALL Shapes, Sizes and Ethnicity's. The event featured lots of great sponsors for eats, drinks and great discounts throughout all whole store.

Theses Lady -boys were extremely entertaining, opening up the fashion show with a FAB musical number

Yummy horderves treats. All Natural popcorn and delicious mexican egg rolls

I loved all of the Fashion. The Makeup, Hair and Accessories complimented all of the AKIRA styled Fashions. I loved the female and male models of all ethnicity's and shades. Of Course I was most excited for the plus size models that graced the runway. Now Akira does not have extended sizes. The stylists did well taking straight sizes and creatively fitting them for the Curvy models.

Eddie was in the building representing for the full figured at our 3rd Plus Size event together

Overall the night was really fun, I attend with my friend Jade who sported a leopard print mini dress with cut outs and popped the animal print with red stiletto pumps. I worked a mini pleated, swing skirt with a thrifted leather vest and a pearl and chain statement necklace.

I want to thank AKIRA Andersonville in Chicago so continuing to throw these free, fun, Fashion Show events.

" Fatshion" Blogger Meet-up: Boom in the Trunk

2011-11-03T13:26:00.000-07:00

I had the very special pleasure or attending " Boom in the Trunk" FATshion blogger meet-up last week. This Fun event was hosted by Tiffany Tucker of Fat Shopaholic and Rachel Adams of Very Busy and Important at Beauty Bar Chicago ( all photo credit to Josh Slater )

I had a great night mingling with some Fantastic bloggers and friends: Below is Miss Amber McCulloch (center) of the amazing blog Style Plus Curves

So Glad to bump into my girl Eddie Farouk

I was so inspired by all the full figure fashion during the event. Lovin this girls fur and her ethereal braid = STYLE !

In the crowd were some of my favorite Curvy Bloggers: Xtina the Great ( far left) and Hippopotamuslee ( far right)

For my outfit of the night I choose to put together some of my new Thrifted Items.. check out the video below for the full style breakdown

I was So ecstatic to see my Girl Stephanie Graham, (left) a fellow alumnus of Coumbia College

Very Special Thanks to Tiffany Tucker and Rachel Adams for hosting and organizing this event. YOU LADIES ROCK!! The event had wonderful sponsors and amazing gift bags featuring some great accessories that Ive been wearing almost everyday! There were cupcakes, fruit and live music. All the ladies were fun and we enjoyed talking Fashion all night long.

live. Learn. LOVE ,

Lindsey

Holiday Plus Size Dress Ideas

2011-10-28T17:17:00.000-07:00

All Dresses can be found at ASOS CURVE and NORDSTROM ENCORE