Everyday Lounge Act

One Happy Island = One Happy Blogger

2013-06-09T21:00:00.001-06:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Aruba Tourism Authority. All opinions are my own.

It's been a long time since our family has taken a much needed vacation. And by long, I mean over 5 years. Lately, our idea of R & R is sleeping in past nine. When we do have the luxury of planning our next trip, certain criteria must be met.

1. Our desired location must not be a place we can go to close to home, i.e. you aren't going to find any turquoise colored waters here in Idaho.
2. The cuisine MUST be five-star!
3. There must be a plethora of things to do. Because even though I'm on vacation, I plan on taking full advantage of everything there is to offer!

Enter the happy island of Aruba! Located in the Southern Caribbean just north of Venezuela, Aruba, home to Arikok National Park and Bubali Bird Sanctuary, is 70 square miles of pure FUN!

With white sand beaches, crystal clear water, over 60 shopping boutiques and an Annual Food & Wine Festival, Aruba definitely meets our needs.

Snorkeling, kitesurfing, water skiing, tubing and parasailing are amongst the myriad of watersports to engage in! Or you could try horseback riding on a secluded beach off the beaten path. Spend the day golfing, hiking or visiting local museums and as soon as the sun sets, downtown Oranjestad is the place to be! You'll find everything from world class restaurants, pubs, movie theatres to karaoke!

With so much to offer for families and couples alike, we'll definitely be making plans to explore Aruba travel for our next vacation!

For everything you need to know about Aruba & more:
https://www.facebook.com/ArubaFans
https://www.facebook.com/ArubaFans/app_168188869963563
https://twitter.com/ArubaTourism

The Blog Workshop: Surviving SEO

2013-06-07T04:30:00.000-06:00

DISCLOSURE: This is a sponsored post on behalf of The Blog Workshop. All opinions are my own.

Blogging has come a long way since its start in the late 90's. According to the Nielsen Company, there are over 181 millions blogs as of late 2011, with women making up the majority and 1 in 3 of those being mom bloggers.

With those kind of statistics it is becoming more & more crucial to stand out from the crowd. Enter The Blog Workshop: a learning community for bloggers/vloggers. Through workshops, TBW University, and an annual conference, bloggers have a wide array of opportunities to educate themselves on becoming influencers while connecting with brands.

One example of their monthly training workshops is the upcoming Survivng SEO by Dan Morris. The class is scheduled for June 26, 8-9 EST with anticipated topics to include: Descriptions, Categories, Tags, Plugins, Keyword Research, Structuring Content For Effective SEO, etc. If you're new to SEO or are looking to improve on your current strategies, this class is for you!

Registration for The Blog Workshop community is free. Sign up here!

How To Customize Your iPhone Using Cocoppa

2013-03-08T03:22:00.000-07:00

So today, I want to share a tutorial with you for Cocoppa - an iPhone app that allows you to customize your phone icons.

Here is what my current homepage looks like (sans title of course):

In this tutorial, I'm going to show you how to change your messaging icon. Please note that following the same procedure can be applied to changing any icon. WARNING: Do NOT delete your original icons! Arrange them in a separate folder out of sight.

1. Download Cocoppa in the App Store.

2. When you open the app, you'll need to create a free account. This is what the Cocoppa homepage will look like when you're ready to start customizing.

3. Browse through the New or Popular Icons, or do a Search for the icon you want to customize. In this case, we're going to customize our message icon or text button.

4. Under the Popular Icons, I chose #30 for my button.

5. Once you click on the icon you want, you will see this. Note: If you were customizing your Facebook icon, you would see a Facebook icon, Pinterest icon, Twitter, etc.

6. Click on 'Set Up Link' and you will see this. There are instructions telling you to choose the icon you want to assign your customization to. Scroll down until you see the messaging icon. Note: In the App Search, you will find Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, Google and other social media icons.

7. Select the message icon and a pop up will show this. For this purpose, we will choose PHONE CALL.

8. Input your phone number and click Done.

9. Name your icon and click Done.

10. Upon confirmation, click Yes.

11. The next page looks like this. Click the arrow to 'Add to Home Screen'. NOTE: Do NOT delete main icons or the shortcuts will not work.

12. Click 'Add to Home Screen'.

13. Name your icon and click Add.

14. Once your shortcut is customized you can place it wherever you like. *I duplicated my message icon for these purposes, but you can see the shortcut I am using for my messages titled 'Text'.

Have fun customizing your iPhone!

Disclaimer: I am in no way affiliated with the Cocoppa app nor do I make any claims toward its authenticity. If you have any questions and/or concerns, please leave comments on their page in the App Store.

March's Featured Ad:

Want to customize your iPhone? Look no further than my @cocoppa_com tutorial! everydayloungeact.com/2013/03/how-to…
— Marissa F. Sexton (@marissa_ELA) March 8, 2013

Top 10 Spring Workout Songs

2013-03-05T15:04:00.001-07:00

Music is the juice that powers most of my workouts and I'm guessing most of yours too. There's nothing that gets me more motivated than a great song!

If you remember this post, I've been on a journey to change my lifestyle. I've been making better food choices, working out religiously and since February 1, have lost 9.2 pounds! #unselfishplug #motivated

With that said, here is a list of my Top 10 Spring Workout Songs that have been motivating me to continue on with my workouts!

So, tell me... what are your favorite workout songs?

Music to fuel those workouts! Top 10 Spring Workout Songs! #fitness everydayloungeact.com/2013/03/top-10…
— Marissa F. Sexton (@marissa_ELA) March 5, 2013

March's Featured Ad:

Recipe: Pepsi Pot Roast

2013-02-23T00:51:00.002-07:00

This recipe has been floating around Pinterest and recipe website for eons, but call me biased... 'cause nobody makes it as good as me. #unselfishplug

I promise you will absolutely love this roast. I make it very often and sometimes turn it into a stew. WARNING: If you have a husband and/or children - THIS WILL MYSTERIOUSLY DISAPPEAR AFTER ONE MEAL. #justsayin

Download the recipe here if you'd like it to reappear whenever you want. =)

Weekend dinner idea! Pepsi Pot Roast everydayloungeact.com/2013/02/recipe… fb.me/JiDrj3BB
— Marissa F. Sexton (@marissa_ELA) February 23, 2013

Build Your Blog Conference 2013

2013-02-22T05:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday friends!

Last weekend I had the luxury of attending Build Your Blog Conference in SLC, and though I'm happy to be home in my own bed again, I'm equally happy I went. I adore my family, but sometimes you just need some me time & I took complete advantage of that. I don't know what it is about hotel showers, but I must have taken at least 2, sometimes 3 a day. It's just not the same at home. #permanentvaca

I was able to network with some amazing women, including Ashley, Lindsay, Janessa, Jordan, and Amber/Mindy. I believe in a higher purpose and know that meeting each of them was inspired. I gained new friendships, a deeper commitment to my passions and comic relief - something I thrive on. And considering this was my FIRST blog conference, meeting 5+ people outside my normal "Circle of Trust" is an achievement for me. For whatever reason, I have a hard time just "talking" to someone if it's not business. Lucky for me, I was blessed me with a safety net from the get go. ;-)

The best part of conference was the knowledge and admiration I gained. By the end of the keynote speech, blogging had taken on new meaning for me.

Brooke Walker, is a co-host on Studio 5, Utah's #1 Lifestyle program and she spoke this year on #6 Ways To Be An Influencer vs. Blogger. I just wanted to talk a little about what I gleaned from this message.

Brooke described being a blogger (from Websters' Dictionary) as an individual who writes commentary via an online journal/diary. Then she went onto describe an influencer as someone who exercises power to influence. "An influencer is someone who exercises power to influence."

If you're thinking, "I write a blog so my grandmother in Maine can keep up with my kids. How can I be an influencer?"... read on.

Given her profession, Brooke is clearly a confident and commanding speaker. Her words set the tone for the day. Her passion for bloggers was evident and her message was clear: being an influential blogger is attainable, important and effective.

#1 - Find a focus. Discover a cause that is bigger than you. Why do you blog?
#2 - Find your spirit. How do you add and maintain your voice?
#3 - Ask interesting questions. Did you know that even the finest affirmation doesn't require a response?
#4 - Play up the positive & be real. If we were to meet in person, would I be introduced to the same 'voice' I know on your blog? And vice versa.
#5 - Balance the bucket. For every 10 validations you receive, give 5 back. Do you take more "withdrawals" than you "deposit"?
#6 - Leave a lasting impact.

This last tip was profound as Brooke's most influential thought was: People may not remember what you did or what you said, but they will ALWAYS remember how you made them feel. The more I thought about this, the more I thought about the Golden Rule. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Funny enough, during one of my classes on Saturday, I encountered a young woman who was 'holier than thou' and didn't have the time to talk to me. I say young because I'm as old as dirt and my initial impatient thought was, "Excuse me (insert expletive here)". Because let's be real folks - I'm human, not perfect.

My second thought was that of frustration because I don't like being angry. Then I noticed this cool chick Lucky I had met the night before sitting a few rows in front of me. Thankfully my anger turned into humor because Shannon is hilarious. A little sneaky (see ~~evidence~~ photo below), but most important she's real. And though I only saw her but a few times all weekend, I will always appreciate the way she made me feel. Comfortable, easy to talk to and laugh with, someone I could be me around. A complete stranger who welcomed me unconditionally... with humility.

What I learned at #BYBC13...

I take the worst pictures. I need a professional one done.
A blog conference is a huge networking opportunity. Everyone in attendance is a potential client - step out of your shell and say HELLO!
DON'T forget your business cards! (Yes, I did... AND my laptop plug, hairdryer, shampoo/conditioner. Least I had my deodorant.)
Take notes!
BE PREPARED: Not everyone is in it for the joy of blogging. You will meet people who are openly negative if they do not relate to certain topics. Stay focused on YOUR needs and goals.

What I'm doing in the next 6 months with the skills I learned at #BYBC13...

~~Create website, get hosting, etc. for MGF~~.
Write up a new business plan for MGF.
~~Create a full list of accessories and activewear MGF will offer~~.
Take on new clients and use income to support MGF overhead costs.
Properly prepare for my next conference... including those business cards.

Until next year... for conference, that is. I'll see you next week for our regular scheduled program. ;-)

Influencer vs. Blogger - which one are you?... fb.me/2mgMgM72M
— Marissa F. Sexton (@marissa_ELA) February 22, 2013

How To Style Kids At Great Prices

2013-02-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

Do you struggle with styling your kids at great prices? Look no further than Old Navy! With their spring fashions in full force, you are bound to find SOMETHING for your whole family.

Old Navy generously supplied us with a $75 gift certificate for their Kids & Baby Sale! So off we went to spend our dough.

I love being able to match my children's outfits and was able to do that with ease. I love how Old Navy has a general theme throughout their selections. It made it very easy to mix-n-match.

I was absolutely amazed at everything we purchased! At up to 40% off , we were able to walk away with two pair of shoes, overalls, jeans and a bunch of shirts.

Styling Kids at Great Prices! everydayloungeact.com/2013/02/how-to… #OldNavy #CGC #spon

— Marissa F. Sexton (@marissa_ELA) February 18, 2013

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective, and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

2013-02-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

I have to be honest. I've eaten stuffed peppers maybe 3 times my entire life. Why? I don't even know. 'Cause these were the best ever!

And so easy to make. From start to finish it took about 45 minutes. I'll definitely be making them again & maybe even experimenting a little. Buffalo chicken, pulled pork... mmm; the possibilities seem endless!!

I hope you enjoy them as much as we did! Download the recipe here.

2nd Annual #vdaymugswap

2013-02-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

It's Valentine's Day and this year I am participating in the 2nd Annual Valentine's Swap hosted by Caroline from Sew Caroline and Alissa from Rags to Stitches.

First we'll begin with my AMAZING partner, Shannon from Bella Caiden. Shannon was so fun to be partnered with for this swap. When I received her package, every last item was wrapped individually. It was like Christmas in a box! #notevenkidding

Shannon treated me to lipstick, sour drink mix, gorgeous Chevron Izzara bracelets, and some of my favorite sour candy & freeze pops! She also made me a #pinkelephant mug & matching tumbler with her Silhouette machine, which are SO stinkin' cute, they've got me re-thinking my blog theme. #forreal Shannon put so much thought into my gifts and I encourage you to go read more about her here.

I knew one of Shannon's favorite color was teal and she also was not a big fan of chocolate (like me), although she loved Peppermint Patties. So, I picked up a huge bag of #peppermintpatties, a cute teal cosmetics bag, some gold/teal arm candy, a small candle (Sicilian Orange - #myfav), a Kabuki brush and made her a handmade gold DIY Pencil Holder.

This swap was so much fun and I can't wait until next year to do it all over again!

Happy Valentine's Day!

DIY: Pencil Holder

2013-02-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

This project took me all of but 10 minutes from start-to-finish with 4 items, so I'm not sure it's up there with the Before & Afters of our time. But it's cute AND has a purpose. BAZINGA!

What You'll Need:

paper plates

glasses

Mod Podge

Glitter (various colors)

Instructions:

1. Pour good amounts of Mod Podge & Glitter onto two separate paper plates.

2. Start by dipping the rim of the glass in the Mod Podge.

4. Then, while Mod Podge is still wet, dip rim into glitter. Be sure to cover entire rim. Gently tap glass to shake off excess.

5. Let dry thoroughly.

NOTE: I found that trying 2 coats after I let the first dry, was too thick.

Recommend: Valentine's Day Wish List

2013-02-06T04:54:00.002-07:00

In honor of Valentine's Day, I'm sharing what's on my wish list.

Pottery Barn "LOVE" Bookends

Stella & Dot "Avalon Crescent" Necklace

Caitlin Wilson Coral Tall Chevron Pillow

Amanda Catherine Designs: Be My Sweet Heart

Tory Burch Robinson Zip Continental Wallet

Lilly Pulitzer 2013 Agenda: Multi Floral Punch

Bauble Bar: Tuleste Market Gold Heart Ring

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

#EatTheAlphabet Challenge

2013-02-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

In an effort to better my health little by little this year, I created a challenge called #EatTheAlphabet.

The list below shows 26 days, each one corresponding to a different letter in the alphabet. The list also shows examples of some of my favorite foods that begin with that letter. You'll find fruits, vegetables, meat, potatoes, dessert, things you do like... & things you don't like. Eventually this list will be a permanent feature on my blog that will include recipes for each represented letter.

Please feel free to leave encouraging comments as well as other ideas of foods you have. You can also find this list as well as encouragement & support at Modern Girl Fitness.

Let's have some fun!

#1 - apples, asparagus, almonds, artichoke, avocado

#2 - bananas, brussel sprouts, beef, broccoli, blueberries

#3 - carrots, corn, chicken, cucumber, celery, cinnamon

#4 - dates, dill

#5 - eggs, eggplant

#6 - fish, figs

#7 - green beans, garlic, grapefruit, grapes

#8 - hummus, ham, honeydew, honey

#9 - ice cream

#10 - Jell-O, jicama, jalapeno

#11 - kale, kielbasa, kiwi

#12 - lamb, lobster, lemon, limes

#13 - mushrooms, mango

#14 - nectarines, nuts

#15 - oranges, oatmeal, onions

#16 - pineapple, pasta, peppers, pickles, potatoes

#17 - quinoa, quesadillas

#18 - romaine lettuce, rice, raspberries

#19 - sweet potatoes, squash, strawberries, spinach

#20 - turkey, tomatoes

#21 - Udon noodles

#22 - veal, venison, veggie burgers

#23 - walnuts, watermelon, waffles, whey, water

#24 - Xylitol (nutritive sweetener)

#25 - yogurt, yams

#26 - zucchini

Ready, set, go! #EatTheAlphabethttp://www.everydayloungeact.com/2013/02/eatthealphabet-challenge.html
— Marissa F. Sexton (@marissa_ELA) February 1, 2013

Editors Picks: Valentine's Day Gift Guide

2013-01-30T00:12:00.000-07:00

1. Kate Spade - Tudor City Debra Organizer // 2. Tiffany Notes Ballpoint Pen // 3. Flowers // 4. Michael Kors Rose Gold Chronograph Dylan Watch // 5. Julep Monthly Subscription // 6. Datevitation // 7. Chocolate

My picks for Valentine's Day! everydayloungeact.com/2013/01/editor… fb.me/1wmLUSuzP
— Marissa F. Sexton (@marissa_ELA) January 30, 2013

Recipe: Frozen Chocolate Covered Strawberries

2013-01-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

Valentine's Day wouldn't be the same without Chocolate Covered Strawberries. Am I right?!? So today, I'm starting my 3 week Valentine's Day preparatory series with just that! I originally saw this on Pinterest and thought it would make for a perfect holiday treat. It's got 2 ingredients - and 1 of them is chocolate. You're welcome. Recipe to follow!!

Download recipe card here.

recipe: chocolate covered strawberries... fb.me/2M8gQOHin
— Marissa F. Sexton (@marissa_ELA) January 28, 2013

Recommend: ELA's Top 10 Mom Blogs

2013-01-22T23:42:00.000-07:00

The other day I came across this infographic and as a mother & blogger, it got me to thinking. The '2013' mom is truly a modern mother. She's talented, educated, empowered and entrepreneurial. She raises children, writes a blog, tends to her home & spouse and sometimes does it while working a full-time job or perhaps running her own business. The modern mother AND female blogger, is a multi-talented & multi-faceted woman. This infographic shows just how much the modern day woman, mother & blogger is on the rise.

The first thing that resonated with me was, there are 3,900,000 mom blogs out there, but ONLY 500 are really well known. That's less than 1%! The next thing that struck a chord with me was the average annual income of a mom blogger is $84,000! For REALS?!? At less than 1% of the entire "mom blog community", that's a very WIDE opening for mothers out there looking to transform their blog from hobby to career.

If you read over each of the Top 10 Mom Bloggers, you'll find a few things in common (besides being a mom):

They are educated. Some having post-graduate degrees.
They're not only successful online, but offline. They each have a cause they're passionate about.
They're writers! They write about their life, their passions, their beliefs... they speak up!
They're not afraid to be vulnerable because they are faithful.

The more I researched each of these women, I thought what a great idea it would be to come up with a list of MY Top 10 Mom Blogs. Mothers I see in the blogging community who are: a) successful online & offline, (b) women who are the authors' of their life's journey, and c) women who are faithful, Christlike and nurturing.

ediTORIal
The Pioneer Woman
The Wiegands
Sugar and Dots
Made By Munchie's Mama
Rags to Stitches
A Royal Daughter
Mama Marchand's Nest
Take The Cannoli
Little Penelope Lane

Whether you're currently a mom, or are in the planning stages of having children, there is something to be said for the Modern Mother. My Top 10 List are full of women I admire, who began their journey at the Start line just like the rest of us. They are women who put their faith in God and are now reaping His benefits. And if you're not a mom yet, I highly recommend reading each of My Top 10 Mom Blogs because they're just plain amazing!

recommend: ELA's Top 10 Mom Blogs everydayloungeact.com/2013/01/recomm…
— Marissa F. Sexton (@marissa_ELA) January 24, 2013

5 Reasons I Won't Blog Everyday

2013-01-21T04:35:00.000-07:00

When I started blogging a year ago, I noticed all the blogs I read were posting daily. I just assumed that was protocol & jumping in head first was the way to go. I was so wrong.

After a month of blogging, I ran out of topics to blog about. Not even kidding. But, how could I run out of things to talk about if I was writing about my life? Wasn't my life filled with enough to curate such an online presence? It was. But, let's think of it this way...

You attend your very first blog conference & meet your bloggy celebrity crush. If you pitch your life story in the first 15 minutes of greeting them, what else do you plan on talking about? So... here are 5 Reasons I Won't Blog Everyday.

Reason #1 - Quality vs. Quantity: You've read this before. Posting more often won't necessarily bring you more traffic. In fact, it could potentially push readers away. As bloggers, we're all vying for one anothers' attention. Posting less frequently will allow you the blogger to compose quality work for your readers. This is turn will give them a reason to "share" you - which ultimately brings more readers in. And isn't that our ultimate goal?

Reason #2 - Comment Volume: Posting less frequently gives your readers an opportunity to read ALL of your posts as opposed to choosing one out of five-six posts to read. This allows your comment volume to increase because your readers won't feel obligated to comment everyday. This is turn creates room for more quality commenting vs. "Hi - I'm --- Follow me here."

Reason #3 - Poor Content: The most successful blogs all have one thing in common = great content. Notice, I said great, not a lot. Like I said earlier, telling your life story in the first month of blogging does not a successful blog make. Unless you're an endless vessel of topics to discuss, show your readers a little anticipation and leave them coming back for more. I promise you - THEY WILL THANK YOU!

Reason #4 - Engagement: If you've been reading my blog lately, you're aware that one of my blogging goals this year is to build relationships with my readers. That means, I'll be taking more time for myself to spend getting to know these women. I want to give my readers what they want. And I can't get to know what they want if I'm spending hours a day coming up with a quality post. Instead, I'll plan ahead of time. So during the time when you all are reading ELA, I'll be emailing, Tweeting & encouraging.

Reason #5 - Life Standards: In the last year of my blogging experience, I've been more of an observer than a doer. I've watched bloggers get so obsessed with blogging that they lost themselves. And quickly. What goes up must come down, and they did. I didn't want to be one of those bloggers. Blogging is a lifestyle. It's a career for many. If I'm busy posting everyday, I have no time for my family, my friends, my education, and frankly, me. Blogging should not come first in my life. I should. And I am so confident that the more I take care of myself, the better I can serve my blog & readership.

CHALLENGE: Create a content calendar for 30 days & commit to no more than 4 posts a week. Schedule them as normal & sit back. Continue your behavior as a reader - commenting & engaging on the blogs you read. Be mindful of things like, quality of comments, stats at the beginning of the month & at the end of 30 days, and your specific content for that month. Keep a journal of how things are going. Do you find your posts are more high caliber? How is your reader engagement? Most importantly, how has the quality of your life & time improved? Aim to spend the time you would normally be posting on yourself, your family & other activities that are meaningful to you.

-----------------------

DISCLAIMER: This system will not work for everyone. There are bloggers out there who should post everyday. If you're in an information niche, it's more beneficial to your readers to keep them on the cutting edge. Especially when information moves at the speed of light. If you are an established blogger whose readers are expecting daily posts, then keep it up. There are also those bloggers who feel like posting everyday encourages them to develop better writing habits. Great! If you are going to post everyday, I would suggest the following:

KISS - Keep it simple. Short & sweet is the way to go for posting daily.
PLAN - Have a library of posts waiting in the wings in case you run into a snag. All you have to do is publish & you won't lose out on quality content.
VARIETY - Change up your routine. Include vlogging one day & image heavy posts another.

I hope you all find this helpful & be sure to let me know how your challenge goes!

Tutorial: Pinpuff

2013-01-17T01:14:00.001-07:00

Have you all heard of #pinpuff?

Pinpuff is a tool that measures a Pinterest users' influence, reach, & virality, also called Pinfluence (similar to Klout but for Pinterest). What is Pinfluence? According to Pinpuff.com, Pinfluence is:

"...measure of your popularity, influence and reach on Pinterest. It also decides monetary value of your pins & traffic your pins generate..."

Why is this important?

Pinpuff assigns each user a Pinfluence score and a monetary value of their pins. This helps Pinterest users keep track of their Pinning activities so they can get the most out of the site. Based on daily tips & suggestions, Pinterest users/businesses can analyze & manage their promotional/marketing content in order to better tailor their content for their target audience. This also helps them build their brand to prepare for collaboration with other brands.

Let's break this down.

The first thing I want you to look at is my Pinfluence score - 43. Not too shabby, although anything above 70 is ideal for branding yourself. The next thing I'd like you to look at is Reach, Activity, & Virality scores. My Reach score is 38.3 or how many unique individuals I'm reaching with my pins.

Next is my Activity score - 69.8. For the total number of pins I have, 3,891, this is a fairly good score. There is always room for improvement, which I'll get to in a second. Lastly, there's Virality, or how quickly my pins are reaching the mass population. My Virality score is 44.7. So let's say I apply for a paid campaign promoting Pepsi's newest flavor, my total Pinfluence score is going to tell them a) how many unique visitors are going to see my opinion, b) how often I'm going to get my opinion out there on their behalf, and c) how quickly it is going to reach the masses.

So, what's a good Pinfluence score?

A short answer - the higher, the better. The average score on Pinpuff is 32. A Pinfluence score of 50 or above is a good score. The table below from Pinpuff gives a good understanding of a brands' perception based on Pinfluence score.

Score Range	Comment	Brand's Perception
Less than 40	Score is between low to average.	Won't give much attention
Between 40 and 70	Score is in a sweet zone. You are doing great. Keep it up.	Brands would love to have you as a part of their Pinterest strategy
Greater than 70	You are a celebrity on Pinterest	Brands need you badly! Let us find a great opportunity for you.

One other element I'd like to show you are the two stars that are highlighted. They reflect my total number of pins 3,891 vs. re-pins 2,939. This means that approximately 75% of my pins are being re-pinned. As a blogger, this is crucial information to know. Why? I thought you'd never ask!

Looking at PINS & REPINS only, I can analyze what my Pinterest followers are most interested and adjust the content on my blog to coincide with their needs. This = more traffic. For example, analyzing the above data, we can gather the following percentages in terms of repins.

Dream Closet - 95%

Get In My Belly - 89%

DIY/To Do List - 51%

This information tells me that I have a great sense of style & I love to ~~eat~~ cook. ;-) But, this also tells me how I should be focusing my content in order to better serve my audience. 'Cause obvs I want to give my readers what they want.

If you haven't tried Pinpuff yet, or if this is your first time hearing of it, I recommend giving it a try. Getting your score is easy peasy! Simply go to Pinpuff.com, type in your email address, your Pinterest username and click "Calculate Your Pinfluence"!

Be sure to come back & let me know if you checked out your Pinfluence!

I Never Said It Would Be Easy, I Only Said It Would Be Worth It

2013-01-15T05:08:00.001-07:00

CAUTION: Heavy post ahead. No pun intended.

So... on Friday morning, I was perusing my daily reads and I came across this post by my good friend Jess. (F.Y.I. She's the mini bodybuilding leprechaun in green.) You can also see her here. With the six pack & substantially much less on. Let alone green. The next thing I know, I'm crying hysterically wondering "how in the world I ever got so fat, what happened to me?, how could I let myself go like this?, that used to be my body, I hate you Jess...". I love you Jess.

Guess whose on her way???

Ya see, only about 5 years ago, did I look much this. Svelte body, healthy, glowing skin. Was a very clean eater, nothing processed. I was never a big fan of sugar, chocolate or breads. And I exercised at least twice a day. If I wasn't at home, work or the beach, I was at the gym. First thing in the morning at 5:30 for cardio & back at 8:00 for an evening workout with my trainer. Fitness was my life. Fast forward to 2013...

In April of 2008, my dad passed away. Soon thereafter, the gym workouts started becoming more sparse. I stopped cooking all my meals on Sundays. In fact, I stopped eating pretty much, altogether. And if you want in on a little secret when it comes to how our bodies work physiologically: the more you eat, the less you weigh. Oxy-moron I know. But, your body truly is a furnace & if you fuel it all day... it has no choice but to burn. I don't make the rules, I just follow them. Well... at least I used to.

It took me almost two years, but I managed to gain 100 lbs. onto my normally tiny 5'1" frame. I'm very petite in general. My twelve year old daughter stands at 5'6" already, so that should give you an idea of how short I am. 100 extra pounds is a lot to carry on a frame like mine. It's painstaking in fact. I can barely walk up a flight of stairs without feeling like I'm losing oxygen. I often experience lower back pain from carrying so much weight in my stomach. And because I don't eat, migraines are the daily norm.

Now please don't misunderstand. I am not complaining. I do not define who I am as a person, woman, wife, or mother by my looks. I am beautiful no matter my size. I am kind hearted, funny & the most loyal friend you could ever have. But if we're being honest, I'm fat. And I'm not okay with that. People treat you differently when you're overweight & I'm not okay with that. I'm unhealthy, which puts me at risk of not living a full life - to see my daughter grow into a beautiful woman, or spending a lifetime with my husband. And I'm NOT okay with that. So I chose to do something about it.

The one benefit of where I stand physically, is that I come from a fitness background. Scientifically I know exactly what I need to do to lose this weight. I can throw macros out at you for any weight/height. And I know mine intimately. I know how much weight to lift, why cardio gets flanked by clean eating & why interval training is crucial to losing weight fast. I did this for a living. I taught people in my situation just how to do it.

Now, if you're still reading, cause I talk for like ever, you're probably wondering, "Where the hell is she going with this?!?" Well... when I first saw Jess' post & became hysterical over her perfectly defined arms, I realized two things.

1. I'm getting my period. Damn.
AND
2. I was so upset about something that seemed so out of reach, so unfair, something that I felt was so out of my control, when in fact I am the ONLY one who could be in control. No one else can ever bring back my perfectly defined delts but me. Most importantly, nor would I want anyone to.

At the beginning of the year, I made a decision NOT to make resolutions, but rather small changes in my life because I'm a total commitment phobe and sticking to a 30 day plan vs. 365 sounds much easier to me. i.e. In January I am having #nofastfood, in February I'll be #eatingthealphabet.

Implementing SMALL changes in your life add up to HUGE results. These may sound redundant, but they're worth repeating.

REST.
Take the stairs.
Drink a glass of water BEFORE & AFTER every meal.
Brush your teeth after every meal.
Ride your bike, or walk when you can.
GRAB THOSE WEIGHTS - women!! you do not have enough testosterone in your body to bulk up!!
Don't lift too heavy, too soon. (fastest route to a plateau)
REST.
If you think you're doing too much, you are.
Take a good vitamin every day.
Write down E V E R Y T H I N G you put into your mouth. You'll be surprised at how quick those calories add up.
Our bodies are like a furnace. The more you feed it, the more it will burn.
Have a cheat MEAL... not a cheat DAY!
REST.

Recommend: Holiday Gift Guide - for the Decorator

2012-12-06T22:36:00.000-07:00

zebra stripe allover stencil / caitlin wilson textiles / my decor ideas journal / thriftychic: interior style on a shoestring

CPWM :: Black Friday Shopping Inspiration

2012-11-21T10:37:00.000-07:00

The holidays are fast approaching and I can think of no better place to "spend" my time than World Market. Perusing their website gave me some fantastic ideas for office stocking stuffers. I am a very organized person and I work better when my office space is aesthetically pleasing. So, whether your shopping for your mom, sister, boss, or even your favorite blogger... these cute items will definitely be an asset to any office space!

Fabric Push Pins // Handmade Notecube // Sealing Wax Kit // Typewriter Journal // Bird Magnets

Butterfly Paperweights // Typewriter Pocket Planner // Candle

World Market is currently hosting a sweepstakes and giveaway in theme with the movie, Life of Pi. Opening in theaters today, Life of Pi is the story of an Indian boy named Pi, a zookeeper’s son, who survives a disaster at sea and is thrown into an epic journey. While adrift in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, he forms an amazing and unexpected connection with a fearsome Bengal tiger. (*You can watch the trailer for Life of Pi here: http://www.lifeofpimovie.com/#!/watch-trailer)

The Life of Pi Sweepstakes

Grand Prize: Trip for 2 to India and a $1,000 World Market Gift card

3 Runner Up Prize Winners: $500 World Market gift card

The Life of Pi Sweepstakes runs from 11/17 - 12/28.

If you share the sweepstakes with 5 of your friends (via FB share or email) you can receive 5 additional bonus entries. This is part of the registration process when entering. Users can also enter daily for more chances to win. Enter online at: https://www.facebook.com/worldmarket?fref=ts

BLACK FRIDAY and Life of Pi Giveaway The first 100 customers to shop in-store on 11/23 (Black Friday) will receive a FREE Limited Edition Life of Pi ornament and a FREE Life of Pi movie ticket. The first 100 customers to shop in-store on Saturday, 11/24 & Sunday, 11/25 will receive a FREE Limited Edition Life of Pi Tote Bag and a movie ticket.

Find Cost Plus World Market here:

Website // Twitter // Facebook // Google+ // Pinterest

*Disclosure: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising", this post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group™. Though I was compensated for this promotion, all opinions are my own. http://cmp.ly/3/KqtZiE

Editor's Picks: Step Into Fall

2012-11-15T08:59:00.000-07:00

Recommend: Amanda Catherine Designs

2012-11-07T12:25:00.003-07:00

As a lover of all things design & decor, I'm always on the lookout for inexpensive & creative ways to style my home. Enter: amanda catherine designs.

Straight from Etsy, she writes: "Amanda Catherine Designs features unique and affordable digital art prints. The eye-catching and inspirational posters are perfect for any home, dorm, or office. Started in 2011 by Amanda Helmer, a Chicago local and soon to be graduate of The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, AC Designs has been featured on the websites of Oprah, ELLE Interiors, Fossil, Lauren Conrad and more. AC Designs is a proud partner of Love146, an organization dedicated to end child sex slavery and exploitation. Proceeds from every purchase made will go to fund Love146 and the meaningful work they do."

With over 200 unique & affordable prints, you're bound to find something to fit your style! And with the holidays fast approaching, you have a plethora of gift ideas at your fingertips. Here are a few I would recommend:

Etsy // Facebook // Twitter

* I was NOT compensated in any way for this post. All opinions are my own. All images via obaz.

Recipe: Greek Pork Chops

2012-11-05T00:23:00.002-07:00

Today I'm sharing with you my Greek Pork Chops! The ingredients for the marinade can be used for chicken, fish, lamb, etc., I've even used it for roasting red potatoes.

Here in Idaho, the weather is pretty fair throughout the year allowing me to grill to heart's content. I paired this with some wild rice & green beans tonight and it was absolutely delicious. Enjoy!

Ingredients:
1/2 c. EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
1/4 c. lemon juice
2 tbsp. oregano
1 tbsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. pepper
6 pork chops (bone-in)

Directions:

1. Place chops in a deep baking pan or serving dish.

2. Combine first 6 ingredients (almost like a dressing).

3. Pour evenly over chops & let marinade for at least 30 minutes, (preferably an hour or more).

4. For best results, grill chops at 400 degrees for about 5-7 minutes each side.

5. Make certain the meat is thoroughly cooked before serving, however DO NOT overcook.

6. Self-explanatory!

CPWM :: Modern Bedroom Makeover

2012-08-27T00:00:00.000-06:00

September marks the change in seasons from warm weather to cool. It's the time when leaves begin to fall, nighttime comes noticeably earlier and some favorite holidays include Labor Day, Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Fall is my absolute FAVORITE time of year. It boasts my most favorites, including weather, colors, textures (i.e. corduroys), and eats (i.e. apple crisp & pumpkin mousse). Not surprisingly, my home is very reflective of the season, including colors like dark brown, orange, maroon and cream. Lately, I've been entertaining the idea of redesigning our bedroom and Cost Plus World Market is here to help me out.

1 Erin Cute As A Button Bed // 2 Sally Bennett Baxley "Seasons" Art // 3 Turkish Apricot Candle Set // 4 Multi-Color Swirl Wool Rug // 5 Grey Square Pedestal Table Lamp // 6 Jace Metal Mirror w/ Studs

When I'm redesigning a room, my 3 must haves are: Shape, Texture, and Color. With this mood board the primary shape was a square, which can be found in the bed, rug, mirror, art and the lamp. Since the wall art was my focal point, I chose pieces that would support it. Using a circle as my secondary shape, the buttons in the headboard, the round candles, swirled rug and octagon shaped mirror all lend to a cohesive mix.

I'm a big lover of texture and in this room, an eclectic mix of wool (rug), metal (mirror) and wood (lamp base) can be found. When it came down to color, I really love our current theme of mango orange, baby blue and dark wood, so I wanted to stick to a close color family. The beige in the bed will offset our current oak furniture beautifully and the candles, mirror and lamp accent the wall art perfectly. My favorite part about this mood board is the color scheme!

World Market is celebrating color in their own way by hosting a Gourmet Getaway Sweepstakes to the beautiful land of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Savor the vibrant reds, orange, and yellows of a Southwestern Culinary encounter. Grand prize package includes:

A 5-day trip for 2 to Santa Fe, NM (airfare and hotel included)
Hands on Southwestern Cooking class with Master Chef
Personally signed glossy cookbook
Multi-course dinner at the acclaimed Geronimo
Southwestern Foodie Tour w/ a cultural kick
A $1,000 World Market Gift Card

**There will also be 3 runner up prize winners that will each receive a $500 World Market Gift Card

The Gourmet Getaway Sweepstakes runs between August 18, 2012 - September 21, 2012. If you share the sweepstakes with 5 of your friends via Facebook or email, you can receive 5 additional bonus entries. This is part of the registration process when entering. Users can also enter daily for more chances to win.

Website // Twitter // Facebook // Google + // Pinterest

Disclosure: This shop is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group™ however all opinions expressed are my own. Click here for a full disclosure statement.

Black & Yellow

2012-08-03T12:26:00.000-06:00

I dislike creatures.

Not animals... creatures.

Little, big, crawly, ones that fly - take your pick.

My biggest fears lie with these menaces to society.

Bees aka Wasps, Yellow Jackets, Little buzzy things that sting... I'm not sure if it's because I've been watching re-runs of Billy the Exterminator on Netflix that these creatures have sensed a need for their presence, but let me be the first to shout from the rooftops. Literally. If a bee is seen flying over head, no matter how near or far, you can bet your bottom dollar there I'll be waving & screaming from the rooftops.

Bats aka 'Holy $h!t' Run For Your Life... & I'm not kidding. I often work late into the night on homework, blogging or Pinterest and one evening around 2 a.m. this mysterious creature (there's that word again) with wings floated through my living room. Could have been a bird, a bat, even a fly... but, no matter what it was, it was out to get me. Hiding beneath a pillow smaller than my a$$ did me no good, so the only option I had was to run for my life. And I did. Right into the bedroom & underneath my comforter. 'Cause that was much more protective than that pillow... and bigger too.

Spiders aka Ants, Cockroaches, Daddy Long Legs (who names these things?), Anything that nests its home in a web. Admittedly, spiders aren't as bad as the first two, but they must be bad enough to warrant their own category. And again, maybe I'm watching too much Netflix, but with all the webs that have taken up residence in my hedges I'm guessing we've got a few unwanted friends.

If you've got an aversion towards creatures, you're not alone. There is help. Namely, Billy the Exterminator, but unless you live in the bayous of Louisiana, he won't do you much good. Did I mention snakes? They're a problem too.

Hopefully this will be my only post on creatures.