Fitness – Page 2

50 by 50 – Month 1

February 6, 2014 by robincharmagne 4 Comments

graphic:robincharmagne
quote:thetumblrgym.com/mindset

Hello,
1 month down 6 more to go before the 50 by 50 Challenge ends. So how’s it going… well. Not so great. I played around for 2 weeks then got on the stick for a week or so and got off track again. I think I got my mojo back by following some truly inspiring weight-loss and fitness successes on Instagram. The consistent theme is “it’s not a diet, it’s a lifestyle”. So I’m trying to wrap my brain around this process as a permanent change. My lessons: 1:Plan meals 2:Move that body 3:Guzzle water! I’ll check in again March 6! Health and Happiness!

How do you stay motivated to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

Oh one more thing, You could be a winner! Enter the Valentine’s Day Giveaway hosted by me and some sweet blogger friends click here for a chance to win $350!

Link parties{here}.

Keep it Pretty,
robincharmagne

Tastes Good and Good For You – Nature Box

February 4, 2014 by robincharmagne Leave a Comment

Hello,
We’ve chatted a lot about subscription services as the perfect monthly treat for you or as a gift for someone you really like. Last year I subscribed to Birchbox a beauty service where each month I receive a lovely brown box full of beauty goodies from established brands and from up and comers, all for just $10 bucks a month. I mentioned in December I wanted to try a new subscription service, enter Nature Box. I enjoy a good snack, or two, so in line with the 50 by 50 challenge, Nature Box delivers some tasty snacks that are good for the bod while keeping me on the challenge.

Nature Box is a healthy snack subscription service that delivers a box of healthy options for snacking. This first box had 5 good size bags of snacks and all 5 were tasty. Nature Box offers a variety of snacks from granola, dried fruits, pretzels, trail mix, bars, and nuts to choose from each month. Now the pricing for this service varies based on the box size – Deluxe, Family/Happy, and Smart Snacker. I chose the Deluxe box for $19.95 a month which contains 3 to 5 servings of 5 different snacks (about 6 oz for each snack bag). This box is perfect for a single gal or a couple. The next size is the Family/Happy Snacker ($29.95) and contains 10 full-sized bags. And the Smart Snacker($49.95)has 20 bags of snacks! This works great for a large family!

The verdict: Taste gets an A, with a nice mixture of spicy, sweet, savory and crunchy snacks full of flavor. But price gets a D. The $20 or more price tag is a bit much for snack foods. A much healthier and cheaper snack is definitely fresh fruit. I’m leaning towards a NO on the Nature Box. So on to another service and of course I’ll keep ya’ posted. And BTW, I wasn’t compensated for this review.

What’s your go-to snack?

Have you entered yet? The Giveaway, learn all about it here!

Link parties{here}.

Keep it Pretty,
robincharmagne

Fitness Toys – Friday Faves – 37

January 10, 2014 by robincharmagne Leave a Comment

The Details:
Electronic smart fork – lights up and vibrates when you are eating too fast so you consume fewer calories – $100.00
Kitchen safe – enjoy a snack and then lock it up to avoid emotional eating, save those snacks for your cheat day – $49.95
Jawbone fitness wristband – tracks how you sleep, eat, and move – $130.00
Body fat/water monitor – includes your water weight – $59.99
Destiny’s Child – Jumpin Jumpin – $.99

Happy Friday,
How’s your 2014 going, still writing 2013? I have, more than a few times. But this year is off to a fab start. This week? That’s another story, just getting back into the groove, getting organized, setting priorities, revamping stuff, just getting it all together for a great year. I am in a three week training class so my posts will be slimmed down until I finish training. Can’t wait to fill you in!

I posted about my 50 X 50 Challenge and sounds like you lovelies are getting fine too! I am a gadget girl so today I’m posting some fitness “toys” to help us get Fit and Fabulous. The smart fork was all the rage at CES (Consumer Electronics Show) last year, we all eat too fast, this toy slows us down resulting in fewer calories. That food safe was invented for me. I can stash my oatmeal cookies and vanilla wafers and schedule a sweet snack for a cheat day. Now if I could fit a mojito in there too! Sometimes we think we’re really getting in, that Jawbone will tell the truth. And, I know y’all hate water weight, now we can see it and get rid of it by drinking more water. Of course you need some jams for your workout, get moving with Jumpin Jumpin!

Honestly just thinking about getting fit can be a drag, but these toys make it a lot more fun! I’m ordering the food safe! What’s your favorite fitness toy?

Link parties{here}.

Keep it Pretty,
robincharmagne

Christmas 2014 – Sample Sale Sites

January 6, 2014 by robincharmagne Leave a Comment

Sample Sites:
Hautelook – children’s apparel, women’s apparel, jewelry, toys, infant gear and home décor
Rue la la – children’s apparel, women’s apparel, toys, infant gear, travel, and home décor
Beyond the Rack – children’s apparel, women’s apparel, beauty, toys, infant gear and home décor
Modnique – children’s apparel, women’s apparel, jewelry, toys, infant gear, jewelry, and home décor
Zulily – children’s apparel, women’s apparel, toys, infant gear and home décor
One King’s Lane – children’s apparel, women’s apparel, toys, infant gear and home décor
MyHabit – clothing, shoes, handbags, accessories, jewelry, watches, and beauty
Jetsetter – travel
Vacationist – travel

Welcome back! It’s good to be back to the blog after a nice holiday break. I had a blast spending much-needed fun time with family and friends and I hope you lovelies did too. Now I know you just finished mega Christmas 2013 shopping, but let’s get ready for Christmas 2014. As much as I like giving cool gifts, it’s so much better when gifting a good deal, so I shop sample sale sites! Today I’m running down a sample of some of my favorite sample sales sites for fashion, home decor, and even travel. You’ll need to apply for membership to receive the daily notification of the upcoming sales (click on the links above). If you like designer goods, sample sale sites are just the ticket. My most favorite site is Beyond The Rack where you’ll find all brands from Coach to Hermes to Cuisinart, a real good variety of brands. Two negatives to these sites is the shipping costs which can be a beast so watch for specials on shipping and the limited number of sales for plus-size fashions; on the positive side, finding new brands rocks and your savings can be as high as 80% for some items. That’s a deal. Start now and take advantage of some great deals all year-long.

Do you shop sample sale sites? If so, what’s your favorite?

Link parties{here}.

Keep it Pretty,
robincharmagne

50 by 50 Challenge

January 2, 2014 by robincharmagne 24 Comments

Hello,
I’ve had this post in draft for some time, a little apprehensive about putting myself out there as they say. But, 2014 is a special year for me and my twin as we are turning 50! Yep THE BIG 5-O! I am so excited as I have some amazing plans to celebrate this milestone 50th birthday. But I have some reservations too. See, I want to be 50, Fit, and Fabulous and I’m a little sad to say, I got the Fabulous but lacking on the Fit,LOL!! I’ve been carrying around a 6-year-old, yeah the average 6-year-old weighs 50 pounds. That sucks. So the challenge is on – lose 50 pounds by my 50th birthday!

Why am I posting this you ask? Accountability first and foremost. Knowing y’all are watching motivates me to stay the course. And second, my selfish desire to have a cheering section that pats me on the back, but gives me a kick in the butt when I’m tripping as I invariably will trip out – translation complain, on occasion. I have a ridiculous sweet tooth and avoiding Oatmeal cookies and Vanilla wafers is gonna be hard. But forgoing sweets is well worth it towards a path to better health. The ultimate goal is to start and maintain a more healthy lifestyle!

Because carbs and sugar seem to be my proverbial Achilles heel, I’ll be closely watching my intake of both, combined with getting this body moving and lots of water. Now my starting weight is under lock and key until the end of the challenge in July. But here’s “before” shot – yep, thighs for days LOL!! I’ll be updating y’all on my progress the first Thursday of each month. The main 50 by 50 page will stay up until the challenge is over. Anybody out there taking the healthy route, feel free to join me. I could use some company.

Keep it Pretty,
robincharmagne

Friday Faves 32 – Black Friday Edition

November 22, 2013 by robincharmagne 6 Comments

The Details:
1- Comfy shoes are a must, and these fit the bill
2- I’m in love with these bars, a healthy and tasty snack to keep your energy up
3- A cross-body is perfect to hold the essentials – phone, credit cards, and cash; the fold over flap and zippered compartment keeps your stuff safe
4- Stay hydrated with this fold-able and refillable water bottle
5- Yes, you’ll have lots of goodies for your Shopping Bags(De la Soul)

Hello Pretties,
6 Days before Black Friday! Next week this time, my shopping adventure will be done and I’ll be headed to breakfast! I’m making my budget and Christmas list now to be ready to snag some awesome deals on Friday. Now, as much as I love shopping, Thanksgiving Day shopping is NOT on the agenda. Shame on Retailers making their associates work when they should have time off to enjoy the day with their families. There is plenty of money to be made and it doesn’t have to be made on Thanksgiving. If you are shopping, show the cashiers, baggers, stockers, and wrappers some love! But come midnight, grabbing my shopping buds and we’re out the door. Today’s Friday Faves are some cool gear you’re going to need to get your shop on!

Are you shopping Black Friday?

Have a lovely weekend!

Link parties{here}.

Keep it Pretty,
robincharmagne

For A Cause And A Cupcake

October 28, 2013 by robincharmagne Leave a Comment

Hi Pretties,
How was your weekend? It was C-O-L-D here but that didn’t stop me from having an awesome weekend of fun with some very good friends! Saturday was the Heart Walk. Over 1,500 walkers braved 30 degree temps to walk for a great cause, raising over $150,000. This was a special cause for me – my dear friend Jada, a 38-year-old healthy woman had not one but two stroke events. So I was very honored to be a part of Coach J’s Crew, who raised over $1500, exceeding our team goal I might add. To learn more about heart and stroke health, and the “Salty Six“, click here.

And yes after walking a 5K, we treated ourselves to cupcakes from Miss Mamie’s Cupcakes, winner of Food Network’s Cupcake Wars.

Miss Mamie’s is quite cute, with a vintage, girly vibe. There’s a cozy seating area to enjoy your sweet treats among tufted walls and ornate chandeliers. The cupcakes were not only pretty, but quite delicious. I also did a little shopping to finish my fall decorating. I hope you all had a great weekend and will have an even better week.

Link parties{here}.

Find me on bloglovin and Instagram!

Keep it Pretty,
robincharmagne

Friday Faves 28 – Walk For A Cause Edition

October 25, 2013 by robincharmagne 4 Comments

Happy Friday Pretties,
It is finally feeling like Fall in The ATL, woohoo! I’ll need to layer up well for a walk I’m participating in on Saturday. Today’s Friday Faves is an expanded edition with all the goodies you need to walk for a cause.

1 – Moisture wicking shirt – Old Navy – $25(on sale)
2 – Skirted leggings – Old Navy – $29
3 – Compression Sports bra – Dick’s Sporting Goods – $35
4 – Insulated hoodie – Athleta – $44.99(on sale)
5 – Cross training sneaker – 6pm – $54.99
6 – Fuel belt – Athleta – $42
7 – Lap watch – Athleta – $55
8 – Armpod – Athleta – $35
9 – A classic, Walk This Way with RUN DMC featuring Aerosmith – $.99

Old Navy and Athleta, its sister brand, carry a huge selection of active wear for walking, running, yoga or whatever gets you moving. Saturday’s walk is to support the American Heart Association. I’m excited to be walking in support of my friend Coach J who had a stroke last year, but is doing great! So far, our team(Coach J’s Crew) is in 3rd place for non-corporate teams. Please visit the site if you’d like to make a donation. Looking forward to a fun-filled walk day!

Have a wonderful weekend lovelies!

Link parties{here}.

Find me on bloglovin and Instagram!

Keep it Pretty,
robincharmagne

8 Things Every Happy Woman Should Have

October 21, 2013 by robincharmagne 2 Comments

Hello Pretty Ones,
It’s the start of another beautiful week. The weekend was a bit quiet but I did checkout The Outlet Shoppes of Atlanta a huge shopping venue in North Georgia, with all the big brands, Coach, Ann Taylor, Kate Spade, True Religion, Michael Kors, Saks Off Fifth and much more. But what caught my eye was C. Wonder – coming soon! Needless to say, I am eagerly anticipating holiday shopping. On to today’s post which was inspired by Emily from Cupcakes and Cashmere who shared her thoughts on “8 Things Every Happy Woman Should Have” and I thought I would throw in my two cents.

1. A go-to drink.
I’m a southern gal so this beverage is always on the menu

Image via
How to make sweet tea

2. Go-to karaoke song.
I’ve never sang karaoke but this oldie but goodie would be my jam

3. A Uniform.
A cute top and boyfriend jeans – perfection

4. A hair stylist they love.
Been rocking braids lately, this spot is open

Image via

5. An exercise routine.
I prefer walking 30 minutes a day, at least 5 days a week. A fave app to track physical activity

6. A hobby.
DIY projects, the possibilities are endless with sites like Wander & Hunt

7. A best friend.
The Ethel to my Lucy

8. A sense of self.
I’m a work in progress, getting more awesome day by day.

How would you answer these questions? Does one stand out for you?

Link parties{here}.

Let’s connect on bloglovin and Instagram!

Keep it Pretty,
robincharmagne

Cocotique – August Beauty Box

September 5, 2013 by robincharmagne 2 Comments

Hello pretty ones!
Hope you are having a great week ! I am so excited to tell you about a new subscription service. Yesss, I am on a mission to learn more about beauty and Cocotique fits the bill. This is a beauty box subscription service that curates products designed for women from diverse ethnic groups. I was absolutely thrilled with this box.

The Goods:polish & co. Nail Polish//EBOOST – ACAI POMEGRANATE Effervescent Powder//Cashmere Curl Jelly/dermHA gentle face + body wash//Cover FX MATTIFYING PRIMER Acne Treatment with Anti-Acne Treatment//PrettyToes Fade-n-Cover

The packaging for this box is beautiful in a chocolate brown with a gold ribbon. The August box theme is the “ultimate beauty arsenal.” The products are all high quality and useable in my day to day routine. Each month features a COCOBelle of the Month with a bonus product; this month a DVD by celebrity trainer Jeanette Jenkins. Most exciting is that for this box, many of the products are created by women! AWESOME!! There are a variety of subscription options, from $20 to $220, an option for every budget. I’m eagerly anticipating my next box!

One more day to enter the Yak Pak giveaway. Use the Rafflecopter tool to enter! Good Luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Link parties{here}.

Keep it Pretty,
robincharmagne

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