Simple & Easy Acai Bowl

So, it's the new year and like many Americans, I am trying to be a new me. I fell way off the bandwagon when it came to exercising and my general well-being toward the end of the year and really need to find some kind of motivation to get back into it. My husband is in our home gym 5 days a week and I can't get my butt in there...in fact I try hard to avoid it. There's a lot of things I want to work on within myself, which includes but is not limited to: eating better and getting to a happy place with my body appearance, fixing my sleep schedule so I can wake up earlier and have the proper energy to care for my children and get shit done, think and be kinder and boost my businesses.

I know this all sounds like a lot to tackle, but I believe that I can and want to do these things. 

When it comes to my body image, I'm not necessarily obsessed with the number. I would much rather look better in the clothing that I have. But my famous words are, "I'm allergic to exercise." It's just because I really do not enjoy exercise even though I know that it makes me feel great afterwards. I also absolutely hate to diet. I truly love food. Just the word "diet" makes me want to break all the rules. And knowing I can't have something just makes me want it that much more.

In the past, I have seen the most change when you take carbs out of your diet. I have done a no carb diet before and it was really tough, BUT it worked. I think I lost 5 lbs in just one week. But I didn't get to enjoy my food much. So, instead, I'm just bringing healthier foods into the house and trying to cook more than eat out (although with 4 kids and a husband who have commitments here and there it's damn near impossible). And instead of go carb free, I've chosen to go low carb.

I know that fruits and some vegetables have carbs, but it's healthier carbs. I live in a place where rice is served with breakfast, lunch and dinner, but I've mostly cut it out. My focus will be on eating fresher produce and meat. I am also looking for simple recipes that don't take a lot of time and effort so I can still stick to my healthier options despite our busy schedule. Here is a really easy recipe for an açaí bowl brunch that I like to eat.

I started with frozen açaí packs that I found at Costco. These are meant to make these delicious bowls. You should typically add a liquid so it is easier to blend. Hopefully you have a better blender than I do, because mine kept getting stuck and air bubbles kept getting trapped inside. Such a pain (insert eye roll here). Anyway, once the frozen açaí was decently blended (it doesn't have to be pureed yet, just chopped up enough that you can add more frozen ingredients to the blender. Next I add an organic mixture of fruits and kale that come prepackaged at Costco as well. With all the berries, you really can't taste the fruit. I like using frozen fruit because it keeps the bowl nice and cold and refreshing and also tends to have a lot of sweetness. You can add any frozen fruits you like. After that, I try to add some protein whether it be peanut butter (I actually prefer almond butter) and chia seeds or protein powder (for my husband). For toppings, I like a little crunch so I'll usually add some type of nut, granola and/or fresh fruits. Today I only had a coconut cluster snack and some peanut butter. Good enough for me and it was delicious. Let me know what kind of sweet fruity goodness you like to make. Let me know if you try this and enjoy it as well.

Here's to a happier healthy me in 2018.

XOXO,
Stephanie

2 For Me, 1 For You

How many of you adopt the two-for-me-one-for-you rule of thumb when Christmas shopping? I do, I do! And I really don't mean to, but dang those sales and cozy sweaters and twinkling lights that all call my name...more like scream my name! Now, I live in a warm climate and I enjoy buying gifts for others and I also have adopted the concept that if it will break your heart to leave without an item, it is worth taking home (it has to be love), but that didn't seem to stop me from buying numerous sweaters and cozy hats and blankets or from buying more for myself than anyone else. It was madness and I felt guilty, but sooooo good.

Anyway...there were a bunch of amazing sales that I shopped at. I frequented stores and website alike and found some great deals that were just too good to pass up. I found myself even shopping at store I  don't typically frequent, but I found so many things at H&M, Zara, Target, Nordstrom and many many more.

This is just a small haul I decided to photograph right after I had gotten them. The rest pretty much went straight into my closet to be used almost immediately. Some of them can be found on my instagram. These particular items were from Nordstrom and Target. They may no longer be in store anymore, but it's worth a look just in case. 

This Topshop pajama set was everything. I don't even know exactly what it is about them, but I loved it. Even the girl at the counter said it was cute and thought it could be used as separates for a daily look. It is a little thin, but I don't mind that it's a bit see through as I probably won't use it outside of the house and also won't cause me
to overheat. ;)

This sweater with the bubble sleeves from Nordstrom was a random find in the clearance racks. The color was something I didn't already have and the tie detailing with the keyhole was so fun. It's comfy, casual and easy, but still chic. These leggings are also new and I think I found them at Nordstrom Rack. I've been on the hunt for leggings that aren't see through and have been coming up super short. I don't know why it's so hard to find. Even if the material is thick, if you bend over just right, ta-da. No bueno. If you have suggestions, leave them in the comments. Thanks!!!

This sweater is so much fun. I also randomly found it in the Clearance racks at Target. The main part is a regular cotton, sweater material, but the bubble sleeves are a thinner cotton material with a fun ribbon tie detail. I couldn't pass this one up. It was just so different and interesting.

This criss cross floral top was on the clearance racks as well. I originally bought it because of the way it hung on the hanger. It looked kind of like a kimono style top that tied in the front, but when I tried it on and realized that the strings were different length, I knew it was meant to be crossed and one string was supposed to wrap around the body and tie at the front. I don't mind it that way, but I think  I will use it both ways if I can figure out how to disguise the longer string. The floral print is cute and it was a great price.

This last item is obviously not from Nordstrom or Target, but just thought I'd include it since I tried it on at the same time. I love the rose gold detailing of these leggings. I'm not sure if I'm actually going to work out in these or just use them as everyday pants. I'm obsessed with Rose Gold err'thing right now. 

I have a serious shopping problem, but I'm trying to give my credit card a break and trying to let it recover some so I'm steering clear of the malls for a little bit. I'm also trying to ignore my email account filling up with sale messages. But it does kind of help that I've been distracting myself with organizing and cleaning the rest of my life and home. The sales are slowing down as well what with the end of year sales coming to an end and holiday sales being long gone. Hope you found some cute things for yourself as well. While you don't need to get out of hand like I often do, it's still nice to treat yourself once in a while. Happy New Year and may you find all the deals and feel all the pretty feels this year!!!

XO,

Stephanie

FabFitFun Unboxing

So I'm a little late to the party as I usually am, but it's mostly because I live in an isolated part of the country and mail takes forever to get here when you send it standard post. Ugh. I guess this is just one of the few cons to living in paradise. Nonetheless, I got my FabFitFun box just before Christmas. I believe this is the 3rd one that I've received so far and I've been pretty happy with all of them. I love the variety that this box delivers and I also love the surprise aspect of it. Although because of the shipping delay, I have to avoid watching other unboxings until I get mine. I also wish there was a male version of the FFF box because my hubby is quite jealous. He was getting the Sprezza Box, but it's typically the same items every month. He wanted a variety for all aspects of his lifestyle - working out, looking good, body care, etc. He wants it all. If you all know of something similar, though we've done some research and come up empty handed, let me know!!

So this is a short-ish video of what I got for the winter box. I really wish it came more often only because I have so much fun being surprised by what I find. Haha.

As you can see there are a whole bunch of amazing products that I may never have tried before. It's a great way to introduce new companies to the world. This box featured a mug by Ayesha Curry, some makeup and skincare that I can't wait to experiment with, a gorgeous high end wrap that is so soft and comfy and more. I also added on some extras that the company offered at a highly discounted rate (ie. the super chic hat that I can't wait to wear and my son keeps trying on and running around saying he's a cowboy). If you want to get your own surprise subscription box curated by the Giuliana Rancic and her team click here. I have yet to be disappointed and I think you'll love it, too!

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and that Santa was good to all of you who were on the "Nice List". There are two days left until the New Year. Are you ready for a new beginning? I think I am, although, I did have a fun and eventful 2017. Here's to more great memories and adventures and blessings to come.

XOXO,
Stephanie

Merry Christmas

A new year is quickly approaching. That being said, it's a busy time. But I'm sitting here after having baked and decorated over 200 sugar cookies, finished my gift buying and wrapping and wondering what is to come next. I haven't posted in a very long time because my home life has changed drastically. I am now a caregiver to my paralyzed husband and am home 24/7 with him and the 4 children. (My hubby got into a swimming accident where he broke his neck and is now wheelchair bound). But I still have interests of my own that include photography and shopping and this blog is a great outlet for both. So, here I am...attempting to pick up where I left off - all the DIY-ing, cool mom fashion and life story posts I can come up with. Continue the journey with me and follow me on my instagram @HighChairsHighHeels. More posts to come soon.

Until then, Christmas is 4 days away. Who's excited? I'm trying to stay in the mood...but the kids are kinda killing my vibe. Kids sure know how to bring the grinch out of momma. As with every year, the Naughty List has had their names listed on it, but I just don't have the heart to kill Santa off. What's a mom to do? Nonetheless, I do my best to keep things festive. As I said earlier, I baked over 200 cookies to share with neighbors, friends, family and classmates. I hosted my own Christmas Cookie Decorating Party. We've also gone to a Christmas Tree Farm (I'm pretty sure it's the one and only in Hawai'i) to get our 8 foot Cypress and braved Black Friday. How do you all enjoy the holidays? I'd love to hear them in the comments below. Here are some pictures of our season so far. :)  Merry Christmas to you and yours. 💋🎄

Talk to you soon!!!
Steph

  

Easy Access Style ;)

I recently found myself back as a SAHM (stay-at-home-mom) -- I'm not hating it...the flexibility to take care of the things I need to on my own schedule and most importantly, on the off-peak traffic schedule (you all know Honolulu has the worst traffic in the nation, right). Anyway, here I am at home again because baby number 4 arrived at the beginning of the year and I was just going to be working to pay for daycare...what was the point.

As a new mom again, I find myself starting everything all over again. I had sold off all my baby gear thinking we were done having little ones (Baby W was a pleasant surprise!). And I had only kept the baby clothes from my other kids that I REALLY loved. I had no maternity outfits left and I needed to get used to the sleepless nights and nursing and baby proofing once more. But I'm Mom. I got all of that under control...again, this isn't my first rodeo. BUT, the biggest issue I have is finding cute outfits that are also nursing-friendly.

I live in Hawaii...so long-sleeved button-down shirts/blouses are a huge NO THANK YOU! I am the type of person that would rather be cold and layer up than be hot and uncomfortable even naked. This is one of the hazards of living in paradise. So, I'm looking for cool, trendy, easy-access clothes that are still appropriate for a mom of 4. That being said, a strapless tube top wasn't going to cut it even though it fit all of the above specifications. I also know that I am not going to be having any more children (steps are being taken) and I won't be nursing forever so I want to find things that I'll still want to wear afterwards. What is a girl to do?

Some of my go-to pieces are seen on my instagram.

* I just got this shirtdress from H&M. It has sleeves, but the material is lightweight and dresses tend to be cooler since, well, the bottom allows for some airflow. 

* The white blouse I got from a local boutique called Eden In Love and it is absolutely perfect for nursing. It is flowy and cap-sleeved, but the best part is that it has zippers that go up both sides allowing for me to lift it away and nurse away.

* The last option is kind of my no fail option. A simple cami under a kimono top. I can easily pull the top of the cami down and hide baby under the kimono. I also tend to just layer a cami under a regular tee that I can simply lift up. The cami hides any belly skin from being skin (although I'm working on it, I'm not yet comfortable showing that part of me off.

I'm still on the hunt for other pieces that are nursing-friendly. If you have some cute ideas to share, please comment below!

~S

Bedroom glam

So I have yet another Pinterest DIY project that I took on...mind you it was started and completed just days before I give birth to my 4th child! Goes to show that it doesn't take all that much effort, especially if you have a wonderful hubby helping. I get so much more satisfaction knowing I made something rather than bought it at the store and I'm pretty proud of how this project turned out. So as I'm sitting here on my couch (as I have been most of the day waiting to see if these Braxton - Hicks contractions turn into the real deal) I figured I'd post it up on the blog while it's still fresh in my head.

My hubby and I just treated ourselves to a new bed... we had our last queen sized bed since we moved in together 8 or something years ago and it was just time for a new bed after numerous moves and running out of space - two little midgets somehow manage to make their way into our room in the middle of the night. Anyway, we got a king which is huge. Haha. But we just got a simple set on a metal frame and box spring. No fancy headboard. No fancy wood sleigh frame. Just the bed. We knew we wanted to make our own headboard but wasn't sure when we would get around to it with the bambino's due date around the corner. However, the husband was not digging how boring it was looking and we took advantage of his holiday time off and my nesting plus some liquid energy (my 1 cup of coffee a day) to just get down to it.

We didn't follow any particular tutorial on Pinterest. We looked at a couple of pins and kind of planned out what we would do together. We knew we wanted a tufted look and we saw a tutorial for a headboard with some arms which I want to trim with nailheads. We got to measuring and planning - we recommend adding an extra inch to the width of the mattress measurements. We then came to an agreement on how high we wanted the headboard to go...this is completely a personal preference. I think for our king we ended up with the measurements 4 ft X 77 in. At Home Depot we had a 1/2" plywood board cut to that size. We also had several slats of 1" X  maybe 2". My husband used these to manufacture some arms for the headboard which we would bolt to the bed at the end. The rest of the supplies and how much they cost are as follows:
4' x 8' x 1/2" Plywood from Home Depot= $35
3m multi-purpose spray adhesive from Home Depot = $7
2 full size 1.5" foam mattress toppers from Target = $40
3.5 yds of batting from Walmart = $15
3.5 yds of fabric of your choice from Walmart = $8
I already had buttons and scotch guard and wood screws and staples that we used. Total only roughly $100 or so.

The husband started by building the legs while I took the cut board and sprayed it with adhesive to attach the foam to. I left some room on the bottom where the mattress would press up against. I also covered the legs in foam. This process is pictured below.

I gave the foam a little bit of time to fluff out since it was packaged tightly in a bag. My hubby brought the board inside so that the fabric didn't get dirty. I layered it on the carpet fabric first, then batting, then the foam covered board. I wrapped the fabric around the back of the board and stapled them down (pictured below). The corners can be tricky but I just did what I thought looked good.

The next step was to cover the arms with the batting and fabric in the same way that I covered the board, stapling them to the back of the arm so only 3 sides are fully covered. I wanted to leave the back open for when we attached the arms. Before, I did that, though, my husband meticulously measured out where the buttons would go and I put staples in their places and scotch guarded the fabric (pictured below).

My husband took over again at this point. We set the covered board face down on the bed and set the arms beside it exposed wood side up. He took some scrap 1" X 2" wood pieces from where he made the arms and screwed them into the back of the board and arms to secure them together side by side.

Lastly, I took to adding the finishing touches sewing the buttons over the staples we had measured out. The very last thing I'm going to do is add nailhead trim along the arms... but that might come a little bit later. We were too anxious not to set it up behind the bed right away. We had to see what it would look like and we were both quite pleased with ourselves. See the mostly finished product below.

This whole project took us all of 2 days, but it could be done in 1 if you already have all the materials needed. We ended up having to run out for more fabric and batting (we originally only bought 2.5 yds of each but it wasn't enough for the arms). All worth it for the end result. :)

The Age Old Debate

All moms are critical of each other. Even if we say we aren't judging or don't mean to, we still have an opinion about others' parenting. One of the biggest debates are that of MWOH (mothers working outside the home...I could very well have just made that acronym up) vs. SAHM (the stay at home mom). I have been on both sides of this one and that is where my opinion on the matter comes into play.

When I had my first child I was going to school and work. Once I graduated I went to work full time and shortly after that I became a SAHM. My reasons for becoming a stay at home mom were practical...for the most part. My husband was scheduled to go out to sea for an extended period and to me, it just didn't seem fair to my daughter. I wanted to be able to give her all of my attention and to make up for his absence. I also figured it would be difficult to shuffle her around to daycare and from daycare while fighting to get everywhere on time. So that started my approximately 5 year stint as a full time mom.

Now that I have 3 children and are back "home" from our duty station in Connecticut, I figured it was time to go back to work. This was mostly fueled by my need to have mom time as well as the need to feel like I contribute more to my family.

With that being said, I want to say that both have its pros and cons. As a SAHM I loved being available and flexible to my children on a regular basis. However, being around my children literally 24/7 was rough. I never felt like I had a break from working. I love them all to pieces as is politically correct to say. However, they are certainly a handful and as I've said once, twice, a million times before, it is important to take care of yourself and have some mom time so you can appreciate the time with your children that much more. As a SAHM I hated the stigma that I didn't do anything all day. I was also tired of being judged for not having a house that was spotless and everything in its place. That was annoying as heck. The truth of the matter is that I tried to have fun with the kids while also following them around the house picking up the tornados they created. It was a vicious circle. All the while, I had to try to keep the household running with bills, chores, shopping (and I'm not just talking retail here). To top it off, I felt like I couldn't make any of the larger family decisions - which car we should purchase, which house to rent, etc. I wasn't making any of the money so what gives me the right to say it's OK to spend such a large amount on a single thing.

As a working mom I love that I have a separate life than that revolved around my 3 little minions. I feel like there is more depth to me and I feel like I'm a better mom to the children because I miss them when I am away from home and I have a little more patience with them. On the other hand, it is certainly a balancing act. I struggle to get to my kids' daycare before they close after work and I have no energy to make them a home cooked meal or to check homework and bathe them before bed. I appreciate that I'm bringing home a paycheck, but in all honesty I'm certainly not going to make it rich because childcare eats up 50-75% of that money. Most of the negative stigma toward MWOH is that they are not the ones raising their children and/or that they have no time for anything besides work and children.

Therefore, my opinion alone, is that being a mom is not easy whether you are at home with your children or working outside the home. We do what we need to out of necessity. Moms who are home with their children cherish that time with them and are doing their best to raise them the best way they know how. And these moms should never feel like they do not have a say in the important family decisions because raising your children is a huge contribution to the family. And not all moms have the pleasure of choosing to stay home with their children. This is not a bad thing...they are providing a certain lifestyle for their family and are likely doing a better job parenting then if they were overly stressed and frustrated with being at home all day. It doesn't make you a terrible parent for feeling like you need a break from your kids or wanting to strangle them every now and again.

Whether you are a good or bad parent has nothing to do with your "job" and has everything to do with what you do with the moments that count. Do you make every effort to go to your children's sporting events or school plays? Do you listen to your children and show an interest in their interests? Do you snuggle with them every chance you get and are you paving the way for a happy, healthy, successful life for them? Even though we are ultimately going to judge others for their parenting whether it be outspoken or subconscious, keep in mind that you can't possibly know everyone's story. We are all a band of mothers and should help each other out and stand by each other.