Weight Loss Challenge Update

So, my fiance and I are doing a weight loss challenge at work. There are multiple elements to it that make it challenging. Not only do we have to eat better, but we have to eat less, and exercise more. This is a pretty significant lifestyle change for us. We aren't complete lazy bums, but we aren't fitness fanatics either.

Both of us have pretty steadily lost weight, but we've both had a week where we gained some or stayed steady and not lost any weight. Those weeks can be tough to get over, but it's something that needs to be done.

Last week was one of those weeks for me, so this week I am trying extra hard not to eat more than I need to. It's so easy to just snack, especially when bored or stressed. I am definitely a stress eater. Throughout this challenge, I am getting used to being hungry all the time, and that is one of the hardest parts!

During all this, I have had some fittings for my wedding dress, and it can get frustrating knowing that my size is affecting the fit of the dress. I just wish I could lose all the weight I want to lose and have the dress fit perfectly!

My fiance and I are also continuing to take bike rides, which is helping with the weight loss. It is definitely a commitment, and it is hard being hungry all the time, but ultimately I know it will be worth it.

To those of you who are also trying to lose weight, you can do it! We can do it together, and we will reach our goals!

Nails of the Day

After seeing reviews online, I had to buy this stunning polish that most recently caught my eye. It's called Rockin' Renaissance by Finger Paints. I went by my local Sally's Beauty this past weekend, but they were out of stock. This just made me want the polish even more!

After work on Monday, I decided to stop by a different Sally's Beauty. I went straight to the nail polish, straight to the Finger Paints collection. My eyes scanned the many shades of all colors in the rainbow, and then it fell upon Rockin' Renaissance. They had it! I immediately snatched it up.

This is my first texture polish, believe it or not. I have some rough glittery polishes, but they aren't actually designed to be textured polishes like this one. It isn't super rough, but it has enough texture to be different.

The color is sort of a brownish plum purple. Online, pictures looked more purple, but when I got to the store, the polish looked more brown. Either way, I love it!

Finger Paints also has a color called Hammered Terracotta that is also a textured polish, and although it was super gorgeous, I do have a similar color, so I resisted buying it.

I just can't stop touching my fingernails now! Do you prefer smooth or textured polishes?

Fat Tuesday

In honor of Fat Tuesday, I wanted to share my experience in New Orleans with you all. My fiance and I weren't there during Mardi Gras, but the spirits of fun, mystery, and indulgence still abounded.

New Orleans is a city like no other. It has an old-school charm in parts, while areas like Bourbon Street are just party central. From music to voodoo to seafood and more, New Orleans has something everyone will love.

Here are some of my favorite memories from the trip:

The Jazz Preservation Hall is a building with a lot of history. It has been a private residence, an inn, a tavern, and an art gallery. In 1961 it became the Preservation Hall - a place to honor and protect New Orleans jazz and its history.

If you ever go to New Orleans, you have to go to Cafe Du Monde for their beignets. If you like powdered sugar and delicious coffee, you will love this place. There is a wait, but it's sooo worth it.

Another place you have to go in New Orleans is Bourbon Street! Even if you aren't a big drinking person, you should just walk down the street for the experience. I took this picture at night and I think the blurriness is kind of symbolic of a trip down Bourbon Street ;)

One other thing I like about New Orleans is the architecture. You can see the lacy design at the top of the columns on this house. The city is full of beautiful elements like this, where you can tell someone really put time into it. These things are part of what gives New Orleans its charm.

Have you ever been to New Orleans? Do you want to go now? Do you know of any other cities that remind you of New Orleans?

Semi-Practical Splurges

Do you have certain things you like to splurge on here and there? Really, who am I kidding? Of course everyone has something they like to spend a little extra on sometimes!

Sometimes those special splurges are really pretty ordinary. Sure, it's typical to splurge on makeup or purses, but I'm talking about semi-practical splurges. Things that you do actually need, but you might not need the fanciest version.

One of my fun things that I am always tempted to spend a little extra on is - believe it or not - soap!

When I saw this ad in the coupon inserts of the Sunday paper, I was immediately drawn to it. Wild basil and lime, orchid petals and mint water, peony and plum. Who wouldn't want those scents? Not to mention, the bottles are sleek and stylish. 

This might be a weird thing to spend a little extra on, but I love nice-smelling soap, and it feels luxurious when it is dispensed from a pretty bottle. Usually I just buy a bottle of soap and then buy a big bottle of refill soap and keep using the same old bottle.

But I think it might be time to change up my bottle and get something a little special. Yes, it is just soap, but it is soap that makes me feel a little fancier - and who doesn't want that? I even have a coupon, so I definitely plan on purchasing some of this soon!

What are some of your semi-practical splurges?