mom of three Archives - Popcorn and Pandas

Post-Holiday Winter Bucket List

WOW!

Is it really 2020, you guys? Can’t believe we are in a new decade.

Now that the holidays are over, it’s typically what I refer to as the “time of the year where it’s so cold that I can’t wait for it to be over and for spring to arrive.”

This year, I honestly can’t say that. It’s been the warmest winter we’ve had in maybe my whole lifetime…truly…and maybe we won’t have a chance to do half of this bucket list after all….but alas, the boys and I are usually scrounging for things to do this time of year. We go into a little hibernation mode, get a little bored trying to think of things to do, and we get a little stir crazy too.

So THIS year, we decided to come up with a Post-Holiday Winter BUCKET LIST! We normally do one for summer, so why not do one NOW and make this winter season a little more exciting with fun things to look forward to?

We wrote ours out on paper a couple weeks ago, and we’ve already crossed out ice skating and making pasta fagioli! Our list is fairly specific to our family, so in order to create one for sharing, I tweaked this printable list below to make it a bit more universal. It does tend to sway to a “family style” bucket list. However, there are lots of ideas for winter things to do that everyone can enjoy, with or without children. I also included a space to add your own ideas as well!

I hope you enjoy, and I hope this makes your winter season a little less mundane!

XO,

Gina

Unleash Your Greatness

In December you said, I’ll start in January.
Last month, you said you’d wait til this month.
Last week you said, I’ll begin on Monday.
Yesterday, you said you’d start today…

There is never going to be a RIGHT time.
You are ALWAYS going to be busy.
EVERY month has holidays and vacations.
You will NEVER have more time in the day…

What are you waiting for?!
When will you realize that NOW is the only moment to unleash your GREATNESS???

Was reality checked today when I got news that a member of our Beachbody family got hit with a heart attack yesterday. Someone who is fit and healthy. Yes, it can happen to anyone. Yes he needs all the prayers right now, but he will likely survive because his wife performed CPR like a champ AND he was fit and healthy before this happened. ❤️

But there is no time like the present and tomorrow is no guarantee.

So make the MOST of your time and take CARE of yourself and your body!

If you aren’t happy or healthy with where you are in this moment, do something about it NOW!

Let’s do this.
I’m here for you.
Let’s get to work.
Let’s crush some goals.
Give yourself the chance at your best life.

***I’m OPENING UP 20 NEW SPOTS for my November Gratitude & Greatness Health + Fitness Challenge 🙏🏼❤️💪🏼***

It’s simple:
💪🏼 30 min a day
🍎 Healthy food
👯‍♀️ Support + accountability

If you are ready to unleash your greatness with me, pop me a comment below or email me a message and we can find out if this could be a good fit for you! 👊🏼

XO,

Gina

Fall Style Mini Try-On

Old Navy cream long sleeved tee – Aerie foldover joggers – H&M Long Black Cardigan – H&M White Sneakers w/ Snake Trim

As promised on Instagram, here is my fall mini try-on of recent items I purchased online from various retailers. Most of these items are laid back, comfortable, cozy, and things I can run around in with the kiddos. As a stay at home working mama, I don’t really need to be dressed up every day (and to be honest that would be uncomfortable with my current lifestyle of walking the kids to school and playing on the floor with the babe), but I also don’t want to look like a hot mess every day or totally live in activewear. Once I’m finished with my workout for the day, I like to put on “real clothes.” So I have some joggers, sweaters, sneaks and more linked here today.

For full disclosure, I do receive a teeny tiny commission if you use my shopping links. If you buy in-store or from a different link, I don’t. So if you decide to shop my links, know that I TRULY appreciate it! It takes a lot of time to put these posts and try-ons together, so THANK YOU!

Alright, the first outfit is a cream long-sleeve tee from Old Navy, which was super comfortable, stretchy, and long enough to cover the booty. I paired them with these army green Aerie joggers which feel like workout pants, but baggier. The high waist is made to fold down and they are tapered at the bottom. The long black cardigan is from H&M and I have been LIVING in it lately. It lacks pockets, but it’s super comfortable and soft. Finished the look with these white pleather H&M sneaks with faux snake skin trim and gold color detail. They gave me a pair with bum laces, so I need to return or get fixed, but they fit really well, and I’m loving them!

H&M Orange Mock Sweater – Target Wild Fable Mom Jeans – H&M White Sneakers

LOVE the bold, vibrant color of this H&M knit sweater! It’s perfect shade for this time of year (sort of a bright reddish-orange) and warm enough to wear into the winter. I love that it’s on the shorter side but not cropped, and there is still enough material that you can tuck it in. I paired it with these Mom Jeans I had from Target, and think it could go well with any type of boyfriend jean for a casual look with sneakers. You could also dress it up with a skinnier jean and ankle booties. I am loving these from Target.

H&M Wonder Woman Sweatshirt – Target Mom Jeans – H&M White Sneakers

My boys are big superhero fans around here, so I thought this Wonder Woman sweatshirt would be fun to wear around them. I love the contrast of the strong bold superhero with the soft pink sweatshirt for a strong feminine look. #girlpower

Old Navy Oatmeal Sweater – Rag & Bone Jeans (old) similar here on sale- Target Booties (also old)

This Old Navy rib-knit trim crew neck oatmeal sweater was my absolute favorite find in my entire fall online shopping spree! It is the most comfortable and also very versatile. I generally steer clear of this type of shade (and usually go for either super bold or black on black on black haha), but was inspired by one of my favorite life & style bloggers, Lauren McBride, (if you’re not following her already, you need to) to get out of my comfort zone and try some cream/ivory based colors, and I’m super happy I did!

Target Leopard Sweater – Rag & Bone Jeans – Target Booties

While shopping at Target, I originally saw THIS leopard print sweater and loved it, but they didn’t have my size. So my eyes next went to the one I’m wearing above, again out of my typical comfort zone. I’m still thinking about snagging the other one online as well though, because can you really ever have too many animal prints? These are both on the thinner side and perfect for fall before it gets too cold.

Free People Chunky Knit Sweater (old) – similar one here – H&M Black Jogger Pant – Cheetah Slip On Sneakers

Before you get TOO excited, this Free People sweater is from a couple seasons ago. I know, I know. So annoying. However, I DID find this brand new alternative that is VERY similar and I think you will love it as well. I love how it pairs with these elastic joggers from H&M which are so incredibly soft, comfy, and affordable. Lastly, these platform cheetah sneaks are so fricken cute, but if you plan to order, I would size DOWN, because there are too big for me in my regular size.

Hot Topic Skull Tank (old) – similar here – H&M Black Jogger Pant – H&M White Sneaks – Steve Madden Crossbody Bag (old) – MAC Dark Side Lip

Lastly, this wasn’t part of my try on, but I wore it yesterday, and since I’m wearing so many of the same items, I decided to throw it in here for this post since it’s so close to Halloween. Topped off with a MAC Dark Side Lip to complete the look.

Let me know which look is your FAV and which items you are loving for fall!

We are getting excited for Halloween this week, and can’t wait to dress up and share our family costume! What are you (or your littles) being this year?

Only 10 workouts left in my 100 day program, and our new Challenge Group will be starting up soon in November! I am looking forward to starting a new program in a couple weeks. Let me know if you’re interested in trying it out and jumping in with me!

Make it a great week everyone!

XO,

Gina

Trunk Club Try-On May 2019

Happy Monday! So excited to share another round of try-ons. Today, I’m sharing my Nordstrom Trunk Club. My stylist sent me a bunch of new on-trend favorite pieces to check out. Some were total hits and some were major misses (for me), but it’s always fun to try on new things. Whatever you love, you keep and whatever you don’t, you just send back! You have a chance to review the trunk before it ships and you can also let your stylist know about specific items you may desire. There is a $25 styling fee, but you can use it as credit if you purchase anything from the trunk. So here we go!

The first outfit was a win for me. I own the mom jeans (Target), and decided to style them with this breezy button up, cotton jacket and leather espadrille slip-ons from the Trunk. Loving this casual look! Comfortable and also nursing friendly.

Madewell Surplus Cotton Jacket

Halogen White Leather Espadrille Mule

Treasure & Bond Breezy Striped Boyfriend Shirt

I’ve been seeing these button down dresses everywhere, and I LOVED this chambray version from Madewell. Very comfy and loved the pockets as well! The back straps criss-cross in the back as well which was a nice added touch. And of course, also nursing friendly.

Madewell Button Front Chambray Tank Dress

This was called a utility jacket, but it felt more like a shirt. It was super lightweight, but definitely really comfortable and soft! The striped tee underneath was comfy and great as a basic tee!

Treasure & Bond Utility Jacket

Madewell Striped Pocket Tee

I also loved this button down thread dress from Madewell. This is an XS, the material was super comfy, and it fit well! These nude suede slip on sandals by Halogen were also great. The heel is a good height where it doesn’t hurt your foot and bonus: it’s currently marked down!

Madewell Texture & Thread Front Button Dress

Halogen Slide Sandal

I got majorly excited when I saw this white denim jacket in the trunk! I don’t own anything like it, and it seems like a great spring and summer staple! Bonus: it’s really soft and comfortable as well. I think I’m keeping this one.

Kut from the Kloth White Denim Jacket

The dress hugged me in the wrong places and was a little too loose up top, but I like the print, and would make a sexy date night dress! Just not a great fit for me.

Leith Wrap Mini Dress

I loved this button down dress when I pulled it out of the box, but it ultimately didn’t work for me. The buttons in the chest area pulled too much and you could see right through the holes to my bra which wasn’t flattering. Super bummed, because I loved the color, pockets, and fit of the rest of the dress. Shame the buttons were weird!

Hinge Button Front Midi Dress

This dress was really cute online, and I wanted to love it, but the material wrinkles really easily, and it was not flattering on my body at all. I LOVE the color, but between the wrinkles, the fact that it hugged me in all the wrong places and since it’s not nursing friendly, it’s just not gonna work for me.

Something Navy Flirty Mini Dress

Definitely keeping this black bralette from Free People. Perfect to wear under those summer tanks or shirts where your bra peeks out, because it has such pretty detail you don’t mind showing it! Perfect summer staple.

Free People Bralette

This simple rose bangle was also included in the Trunk inscribed with “Stop and smell the roses.” Classic and chic. Goes with anything. Keeping this for sure.

Kate Spade Rose Bangle

I liked the idea and style of this top, but for the price, I didn’t think it was worth it. It was a little short and a little sheer. It was okay, but I didn’t love it.

Madewell Woodland Floral Smocked Waist Top

This top was a little large and didn’t really do me any favors. Loved the print, but not the fit. Just kinda made me look wider than normal.

Madewell Striped Peasant Top

Thinking my stylist doesn’t really understand the “mom bod” going on right now. Haha. The color of this top was pretty, but way too low cut for me. I spend a lot of days at the playground with my kids and unless I’m nursing my baby, I don’t really want my boobs hanging out, ya know? So this was a no-go, but I felt like striking a pose anyway. 😉

Hinge Button Front V-Neck Top (similar)

FYI – jeans and shoes are mine and I linked them here:

Zara High Waist Black Jeans (similar)

Chinese Laundry Carnival Sandal

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And that’s it for my May Trunk Club Try-on! I need to send back what I don’t want today, so if you have any suggestions for what I should keep and what I should return, PLEASE let me know!!!

I have the full try-on behind-the scenes posted in my Instagram Stories so feel free to check that out as well. All the items are linked here in case you want to purchase them (I do receive a teeny tiny commission if you use my link, so THANK YOU for using it – it helps me to continue doing these types of try-ons!) OR sign up and get your own personal stylist to have a trunk delivered to your door! I love a good package, and the fact that I don’t even have to leave my house or bring children with me shopping is clutch!

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Hope you guys had a great weekend! We celebrated my nephew’s 1st Birthday, Knox was Baptized into the Catholic Church, and my boys made my mom and I breakfast in bed down in Maryland! The boys were seriously so super sweet to me all day, and we had a wonderful weekend celebrating lots of great things! I was also able to keep up my workouts while away and got in a sweat sesh with my mama!

Back in Brooklyn today and it’s a gloomy, rainy one here, but going to make the most of it! New clothes always help. 😉

Make it a great week everyone!

XO,

Gina

Jan 2019 Target Try-On

Whoo hoo! My first try-on for 2019, and I’m going to be trying things a little differently around here. Over on my Instagram page, you guys wanted more try-ons, so I’ve made it a goal this year to make that happen! I will be uploading my try-ons in my Instagram Stories for you to watch, and then the shopping links will be featured here on the blog if you want to snag an item you see. For full disclosure, I DO get a tiny percentage if you decide to order, but ONLY if you shop through my link. I appreciate it SO much, and it also allows me to continue to do try-ons like this and find amazing items for you in the future!

So for this round, I went to TARGET! (Alone!) Mamas, you KNOW how amazing this is haha. I decided to try on a bit of activewear for my fitness-minded mamas and then also some cozy knits since it’s still super frigid cold over here on the East Coast. Hope you enjoy!

The first photo above was not part of my try-on…just the outfit I was wearing that day in the RAIN haha, but I decided to include it as well since the jacket is also from Target! 🙂

Rain Jacket: It’s more water resistant than waterproof FYI! Good for light rain.

Rain Boots: (not Target), but can’t live without these!

Sports Bra: I picked up the wrong size to try on, but I did like this bra, especially the flecks of rose gold! It was also comfy!

Black Workout Moto Leggings: These were WAY too long on me, but I loved the sheer back of the calf (well actually in the photo the sheerness hits a different part of the leg…probably because I’m so short!) and detail of them! Good for a taller person! These were also mid-rise, and I would prefer a high rise right now since I’m still in my post partum journey! These were a bit tight for me!

JoyLab Crew Neck Sweatshirt: OBSESSED with the comfiness of these sweatshirts, and I also own it in black. I snagged this one, and it’s perfect for layering.

Champion Zip Up: Went out of my comfort zone with a light colored zip up (I would normally pick BLACK), but really loved this. The rose gold zipper detail was beautiful, and loved the sturdy collar and asymmetrical look. This came home with me.

Umbro Tank: This tank is a throw back to my soccer days, so I had to try it on. I thought it was cute, but didn’t love the fit on me currently. Could possibly size up on it for a better fit.

Champion Laser Cut Workout Leggings: These were super comfy and breathable. They are supposed to be capris, but they are a great full length pant for my 5’0 frame. I had to bring them home.

Joylab Black Asymmetrical Zip Up: Unfortunately, I cannot find this online ANYWHERE! Not sure if it’s an older item or if it’s in-store only, but it came home with me. Super comfy and locks in the heat so good for colder weather and potentially running in the colder months.

Short Sleeve Workout Tee: I accidentally grabbed a size 1X (I think the hanger was mislabeled!) so I ended up tying this one up, which I actually kinda like. But didn’t end up taking this one home. It was comfy though! I love the detail on the back which you can see if you click through on the link.

Colorblock Leggings: These were a little tight on me in the XS, so I would size up to a S right now. I love the look of these, and they were comfy also.

Pink L.A. Sweatshirt: Cropped and cute, especially the color scheme for Valentine’s Day coming up! I would pair with a high waisted pant!

Sunday Mood Sweatshirt: If you know me, you know I love mustard colored everything (except actually eating mustard, blech! lol). Here I have it paired with jeggings, but I think this would also be great with joggers for running errands or around the house.

Universal Thread High Rise Pull on Jeggings: These are so comfortable! Great to pair with pretty much anything.

JoyLab Moto Side Zip Sweatshirt: I’m only seeing the black online. This was really comfortable as well. Tight on the bottom, but I guess I should have just unzipped it a little, duh! 😉 Love the moto detail on the arms.

Camo Tee: I wasn’t able to find the one I tried on, but here is a good alternative with a crew neck. It runs a little longer as well.

Cream Knit Cardigan: Great for layering. I didn’t love it on as much as I thought I would though! I think the color is just out of my comfort zone, and reminded me of a doctor’s coat! LOL.

Forest Green Knit Pullover: This one I loved, and kinda wondering why I didn’t take it home! Love the knit pattern as well as the color! It was lightweight so could be great for winter or fall. Super bummed I am unable to find it online, but this knit is similar in a different color, and also on sale!

A New Day tees: Tons of these in all different colors. They are super stretchy and comfy, and I kind of need all of them! 🙂

Faded Frayed Black Skinny Jeans: I liked the look of these on the rack, but they were too long on me and the distressed knees hit me in the wrong spot! Better for someone taller!

A New Day Scoop Tee: Also in a million colors! Loved these. So comfy.

Wild Fable Mom Jeans: Yep. My first pair. EVER. And not hating them.

A New Day Scoop Tee Pink: Took this one home.

Who What Wear Colorblock Cardigan: I decided not to get this one, because it was a little itchy…and then at the last minute I had to have it regardless. Ugh. Can’t take me anywhere. Just loved the colors on this! It’s pretty and warm. Wish the quality was a little better.

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Okay!

And there you have it!

The first try-on of 2019. Hope you guys enjoyed it, found something you liked, saved an in-store shopping trip, or even decided against something you had been looking at previously! I hope to continue doing more of these for you guys this year. Please make sure to go to my Instagram Stories to see the full try on sesh.

Still planning on putting together a reading list for you as well and sharing more about my post partum journey and the new fitness program I’m rocking here on the blog. Til then, enjoy the rest of your weekend, and make it a kick ass week ahead!

XO,

Gina

Pre-Pregnancy Jeans

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About 10 days ago, I decided to try on these pre-pregnancy jeans and I was pleasantly surprised I could BUTTON them!!! Only 1 week before, I couldn’t. They are still a little tight, but they are proof of the progress I am making on my post partum journey. I have completed two full fitness programs since I had my 3rd baby in August, and I am currently in the middle of another. I haven’t been super strict or hard on myself in terms of nutrition this time around. I am making healthy choices for the most part and following my plan (save some wine and some weekend indulgences), but I am nursing a tiny human! I want to enjoy balance and the holidays…and hell, I birthed a human…it takes TIME! I HAVE been staying very consistent with my workouts, because I know how important it is for me to move my body not only physically but mentally. And while these were a little tight to squeeze on, it felt good to know that the rest of my normal clothing is in my near future!

I had also been eyeing this gorgeous Cloudspun sweater from American Eagle for awhile, so when it went on sale for Black Friday, I had to scoop it up! Unfortunately this color is now sold out, but they have four other beautiful colors from which to choose!

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Cloudspun Sweater: American Eagle (unfortunately this color is sold out, but they have four other beautiful colors from which to choose and they are all on sale!) / Jeans: ZARA (my old pre-pregnancy jeans that I can finally button again, whoop whoop!) – similar / Booties: Target (old) – also like these / Earrings and Bracelet: Selah Box / Lip: MAC Heartless – discontinued, but try Brave Red

This week has been busy busy with holiday shopping and activities (Santa and Dyker Heights Christmas lights!) and trying out our brand new workout program that will be officially launching mid-January. It’s going to be only TWENTY minutes, you guys! I don’t know about you, but that’s pretty perfect for this busy mama. I’m filling up my group now, so for those of you who are looking for a plan of action in 2019, let’s get to chatting!

This weekend we have a few holiday parties coming up and we are taking the boys to the NY Botanical Gardens Holiday Train Show, because they have pretty much been waiting to go back since last year. This time of year is my absolutely favorite, so while it’s busy with work, I’m trying to soak up every second I can with the fam!

What do you love about this time of year?

XO,

Gina

Basic

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Cardigan Sweater: Target / Tee: Target (this color not available online) / Denim: Motherhood Maternity (yep, still rockin’ em) / Booties: Target – these are old, but I’m also loving these and these / Sunnies: Vintage / Necklace: Stella & Dot / Travel Mug: Francesca’s / Lip: ModelCo – trio available on Birchbox / Nails: Essie Luxedo

Happy Fall ya’ll!!!

Excited for my first outfit post on the blog since having my little man, Knox. Fall is in full swing, and we are finally feeling those chillier temperatures. I always thought I was a summer girl, because I absolutely LOVE the beach, but lately the past few years of summer humidity have me enjoying the fall season so much! (And let’s be honest…I’m sure the huge preggo belly all the way through this summer also had me craving fall! Haha.)

We went apple and pumpkin picking the other weekend and Nico is begging us to carve pumpkins this year. Last weekend we went shopping to begin putting together our Halloween costumes. Halloween is one of my favorite holidays (only behind Christmas), and our neighborhood really goes all out, so it makes things extra fun. We are also hoping to score a hike up to Bear Mountain at some point this fall before it gets too cold, because the foliage is amazing this time of year.

My outfit is a pretty basic fall get-up, but I loved the color on this cardigan and it’s super soft. It’s lightweight and perfect for layering during the fall season. I’m still rocking the maternity jeans at 8 weeks post partum, but I’m about a week and a half into my 21 day exercise and nutrition program that I’ve been following, and I’m feeling great! I haven’t missed a day of working out, and I’ve been been following the nutrition pretty well although I have had some extra meals/snack to compensate for nursing, and I’ve also had a few glasses of wine. Gotta survive #momofthree life, right?

Wishing you guys a Happy Friday and an awesome weekend!

XO,

Gina