And just like that, we have entered into 2019. Where did the time go?!
I feel like the holidays whizzed right by, so what could be better than a little brain dump on life lately around here? Let’s jump in! (Oh, and there is a little giveaway in here too!)
On the homefront:
-We just celebrated Izzy’s 8th birthday before the holidays. It’s so crazy to believe that we adopted this little lady when she was just a couple months old. Her original name was Minnie Mouse (those big black ears probably did it), and she was a Labrador Poodle mix, although I’m not convinced: we think she might be an Irish Troodle mix. Only a doggy DNA test will tell! She was our first (fur) baby, and has added so much to our family over the years. (I can’t recommend adopting pets enough– there are so many wonderful dogs out there that need homes. Check out this amazing site GetYourPet.com– it’s an online pet adoption community where people who want to adopt a pet connect with people who need to rehome a dog or cat.)
-Blake 7 months old (what?!) and he celebrated his first Christmas. We did a fair amount of traveling between families over the holidays, and it was so nice to create memories as a family and see the bond between these brothers grow. Bryce is such a great big brother and helper to Blake, it’s the sweetest really. And Bryce wants to inform everyone that he loves his new sled and blue binoculars.
-Our house got a makeover! Just in time for the holidays, our house got new siding and windows after some summer storm damage. Windows were on our home improvement list and the timing worked out so well to get it all done at one time. Makes our home look like one big Christmas present. Much needed and oh so dreamy!
In my closet:
-I recently stumbled upon a small family-run business out of Utah called Lucy Avenue (named after the couple’s daughter.) They are known for their super cute shoes, like these gray athleisure sneakers, although I am loving this plaid peplum black top (of course, in my most-worn colors). Perfect with jeans or a pencil skirt or dress pants for a dressier occasion! And I can’t get enough of this waffle knit sweater cardigan. It is incredibly cozy and has a fun front tie that I love versus the open cardigans that I’m always pulling back together or adjusting. It comes in a beautiful mustard color too! Use code VALERIE10 for 10% off your order.
-I finally found some great cotton tees. They are from Kendi’s new shop, Everyday and Co. Gorgeous pieces and awesome customer service. The tees I found are the everyday cotton (crew or v-neck) and they are thick and have a longer torso. They are $16 each but if you purchase two or more items, you get 40% off with code JAN40.
-These distressed skinny jeans are a dream. Comfortable and flattering, and all the magical powers of Spanx. Worth every penny. Get 15% off with this link.
Food & fitness:
-I’ve always been trying to clean up my coffee over the past couple months. I had been using lots of creamer with all kinds of chemicals in the ingredients list and sweetener. And now, I ditched the sweetener and found a plant based creamer that I love from Nutpods. Their french vanilla is my favorite, nice flavor and 100% clean!
-Speaking of clean eats, I recently tried out some pretty tasty burritos from Alpha Foods. They are 100% plant-based, protein-packed and super convenient for a quick and healthy meal. I just popped one out of the freezer, microwaved it and finished it off on a panini press and a side of salsa (because those grill marks make it SO much better, I’m convinced). The taste is great (I tried two of their varieties) and the seasonings, non-dairy cheese and quality ingredients are packed full of protein and free of GMOs, cholesterol, hormones and artificial preservatives. Check them out and use their product locator to find them here. And I’m giving away Alpha Burrito product vouchers to TWO winners so you can try them out! Just comment on this post telling me which variety you want to try. Winners will be selected in one week, at random. US only.
-I’m five rides away from Peloton’s 100 spin club. I got the bike in June the month after Blake was born, and it has been worth every.single.penny. The workouts are amazing, the instructors and the community are incredibly motivating and it makes working out so easy, especially with two littles at home! If you are at all considering one (0% financing), let me know if you have any questions..and use my code KCSBNB for $100 off accessories when you get the bike (that’s almost like getting the shoes for free!)
-My husband and I decided to do the #JanuaryWhole30. We are a few days in so far, and all is good. I have a serious sweet tooth, and am really trying to detox my system and focus on fueling my body with real, healthy options. Whole30-ers- any tips/advice to share?!
Cheers to a wonderful 2019 filled with new adventures ahead! What do you have planned/resolved for the year?
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I’d love to try the Chik’n Fajita & Mexicali burritos! I’ve never heard of this brand before, but definitely want to look into them now as a healthy option.
Congrats Kaci! You were selected as one of the winners of the burrito vouchers. Can you please email me your mailing address to the thestylefilesblog [at] gmail.com? Thanks!
I’d love to try the Chik’n Fajita & Mexicali burritos! I’ve never heard of this brand before, but definitely want to look into them now as a healthy option.
I so recommend to doing the doggy DNA test!. My friends recuse was told theirs was a basket hound mix but turns out he is a corgi mix!
I really want to try it…I would love to know definitively!
Wow so many great ways to start the new year! I definitely want to try the nutpods, they are the perfect way to treat yourself without feeling guilty.
Thanks Giulianna! The nutpods are SO good– nice knowing I’m not starting the day with sugar and chemicals!
You should do a dog dna test!! Ive been wanting to do one with my dog because hes a rescue and we have no clue what he is. So interesting! Thanks for the read!
Izzy is such a cutie! My roommates and I have been considering getting a dog and so many people say adopting is the way to go!
I love the name Izzy so creative! A cute dog makes a great addition to the family! Adopting a pet is the way to go!
I’ve been trying to cut back on coffee, but its like one of those things that makes your morning. I heard that coffee on a empty stomach is bad for your stomach lining. A Yorkie increases anyone’s happiness just like how you can’t be sad on the beach
No dog or cat should ever be placed into a shelter when they’ve become accustomed to a home environment. GetYourPet.com is an example of the internet doing something right!
I did the whole30 a couple months ago and my advice is to keep busy when the cravings start getting difficult to deal with. It will get easier as time goes on, and it’s nice to have someone to do it with you!
What an awesome way to start off the year! those Burritos are a must