Category: Uncategorized

Shop for a cause!

On By meganaperezIn Uncategorized, DevotionalLeave a comment

Hey everyone!! I just recently posted a blog about donating to the United for Puerto Rico foundation, so if you did already, thank you so much!!! If you haven’t yet donated, I wanted to share a decision that I have made to try and do a little something more for the people of Puerto Rico. Any personal earnings that I make off any sale via Stella & Dot will all go to the United for Puerto Rico Foundation. 100%. This is really hitting home for me and my family and I want to be able to do more. Living in PA right doesn’t allow me to do much in terms of volunteering, but I can donate to trustworthy foundations that will help give the people of Puerto Rico the help and support it needs. Please check out the link below and shop some gorgeous pieces! You have a chance to not only help a cause but also gain some great jewelry as well. We did just launch a new collaboration collection with Rebecca Minkoff that I know you will love! So please please please click the link below, and let’s shop for a cause!

Love you all and thank you so much for the support!

xoxo

M

https://www.stelladot.com/shop/new/rebeccaminkoff/page/1?s=meganperez 

United for Puerto Rico

On By meganaperezIn Devotional, UncategorizedLeave a comment

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Growing up, I would spend every summer in Puerto Rico spending time with my grandparents. It was such a magical time. We would climb mountains, swim in rivers, ate fresh fruit, and just enjoyed time with our family. Today’s blog post isn’t going to be a long, drawn out post. The main thing that I want to get out to everyone is Puerto Rico is a place many people call home and many visit on vacation. Whether you have lived or just visited, you know the beauty of the island. You know the heart of the people in Puerto Rico. As a Puertorican American, I can’t just stand idly by without doing my part and without sharing how you can help. Please join me and many other sponsors and individuals and donate to United for Puerto Rico. This is an initiative that was started by the First Lady of Puerto Rico, Beatriz Rossello, to provide aid and support for those affected by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. If you aren’t able to give, then please join us in prayer for those affected. I have full trust and faith in our God who can and will provide for those in need. I know that He will be with everyone affected by these hurricanes. But I also know that as a human race, we need to support each other. So please, consider donating today to assist those in need. Puerto Rico is filled with very resilient people who are ready to bring their island back to its former glory but they need our help.

http://unidosporpuertorico.com

Te amo

M

Obsessed or Nah?

On By meganaperezIn Beauty, Uncategorized2 Comments

I wanted to share some products that I have been currently obsessing with and some that I probably could live without. So let’s get into it!

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERACetaphil Oil Control Face Wash: growing up I wasn’t allowed to wear make up until I was 18 (crazy, I know). But while at the time I hated it, I’m actually very grateful my mom did that. I learned at a young age the importance of skin care. So, when I started wearing make-up, I knew I need to have products that give my skin a deep clean. Because my skin is also naturally oily, I wanted to try this face wash to see how it would help me control my oily skin a little bit better. I’ve been using this product at night to give my face a good deep clean and remove all the product and dirt from the day that my skin has. Let me just tell you, my face has never felt so clean. This product does an amazing job at removing all makeup from my face. It has also helped my oil control as well. I noticed during the day my skin isn’t as shiny as it used to be prior to using this product, which of course I love. My skin has cleared up some (I’ve been experiencing break outs and red patches) and my oily skin is under control. Definitely obsessed!

Covergirl Healthy Elixar: okay so I received this product free for testing purposes through influenster. I was really excited to try a new foundation, because I’ve become a product junkie really. I was really excited to try this as soon as it arrived. The day that I tried it, the only downside was it wasn’t the right shade for me. I felt like the shade made my face look more on the orange side. So I ended up taking part of it off and mixing it with my previous foundation. I will say it was very easy to apply, very smooth, and the coverage was great for me. It was a medium to full coverage which is something I love because I do have some redness on my cheeks. I wore it all day and to be honest it didn’t feel much different than my other L’Oréal foundation. I would purchase this product if I just felt like using something different. It wouldn’t be an everyday product for me.

Maybelline Fit Matte Poreless Foundation: I will say this product has become an obsession for me. Like I mentioned earlier, I have oily skin. So keeping my makeup looking fresh and not overly shiny is a struggle for me. This product keeps my face matte practically all day. I won’t say that it’s perfect because I do have moments every now and then where I need to blot some shininess from my face, but it no where near as much as it used to be. The coverage is great (medium-full), the application is smooth and easy and lasts all day long. For those who have oily skin, this is definitely a product I would recommend.

Eva NYC Mane Magic: I got this product free for testing purposes from Influenster. I’ve used it multiple times and do love the way my hair feels after using it. I’ve even sprayed my hair after it’s dried to give it a fresh look. I would definitely recommend this product. It helps prime your hair before styling, which is always a good thing when you’re using heat. Easy to apply, doesn’t leave my hair super oily after using it. And it smells great!

There you have it! This weeks obsessions! Xoxo

What products are you obsessed with?! Let me know below so I can give them a try!

My Healthy Journey Has Begun!!

On By meganaperezIn Food, Uncategorized2 Comments

Okay the first of the month I decided it was time to make a change. My husband and I had been talking about changing our lifestyle and I just decided it was time do it. The more we talked about it and didn’t do anything about it, the sadder I got. I decided to start by watching that documentary on Netflix called What The Health. My brother recommended that I watch it because he enjoyed it and thought it was very insightful. Now, knowing my brother, he doesn’t say that about much, so I figured it had to be good. So one day while I was working I figured I would put it on and listen while I typed up emails. To be honest, I found it to be very interesting. But I’m not one to believe everything I hear from just one source, I like to do my research.

One thing that really intrigued me about this documentary was the testimonials they incorporated of real life people going through real life health issues. While I was watching it I couldn’t help but think, “I wonder if I try this if this will help my energy levels and help me lose some stubborn weight that I’ve had since I finished chemotherapy 17 years ago.” (For those who are currently thinking, “17 years ago! And you still have weight?!” the answer would be yes. Chemotherapy jacks you up to no end.) So I decided to try a more plant based diet. I can’t say that I am completely a vegan or completely a vegetarian. But what I can say is that I have started to consciously make better decisions about what I am putting into my body and right now, I’ve cut out meat.

It’s been about 3 weeks with no meat and to be honest it hasn’t been tough at all! I wanted to start documenting this journey and sharing some recipes! The first one that I wanted to share was one that I got from my aunt. I did tweek it a bit to my personal taste but the first recipe to share with you is an Acai Bowl!

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There are so many different Acai bowl recipes out there you can try, and I encourage you to, but this recipe is one I got from my aunt and made it my own.

I blend one packet of frozen Acai with:

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Whole banana

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Scoop of vegan vanilla protein powder

Scoop of superfoods powder

About 1/2 cup of ripple milk (this is a great dairy free milk for those who cannot have milk) (more depending on the consistency you prefer)

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About 1/4 cup of blueberries and blended!

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Once I blend everything together, I pour it into my bowl while I prep my fruit. I normally have mango, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, kiwi, coconut flakes, granola, chia seeds and hemp seeds. But you can add whatever toppings you prefer. My husband doesn’t like everything I put on top so I customize his for his preferences.

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There you have it! Super easy to make for breakfast or a snack.  And so healthy for you! Enjoy! Let me know if you tried this recipe or a different Acai bowl recipe that you love in the comments below!

My Fall favorites!!

On By meganaperezIn Fashion, UncategorizedLeave a comment

Here are some my Fall Favorites right now!!! The first five items I’m going over are all from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and the last three are from the new Fall line at Stella & Dot!

First up are those super cute caramel suede mules from Kristin Cavallari. These are super comfortable and fit so great on my feet. I did find out that they fit perfectly to the length of my foot. I contemplated going up a size but I chose not too because the rest of the shoe fits perfectly around my foot. I purchased a size 8 and normally wear a size 8 shoe.Main Image - Kristin Cavallari 'Capri' Mule (Women)

Second is that gorgeous bell sleeve top. That color is amazing. I cannot get enough of it. The bow details on the side are everything. I normally wear a size large and I ordered a size large. This top fits so perfectly on me. I have a wider back so I usually find it hard to purchase tops but this one fits perfect. I’m so in love with it and can’t wait to start wearing it!

Main Image - Lush Bell Sleeve Tee

Third is this Billabong sweatshirt. I also purchased a large and it fits great. This sweater is extremely comfortable and cozy and will be perfect once the weather starts to cool off. It does have a baggy fit to it but the size I purchased still allowed for that baggy feel. I purchased a large, and it fits pretty much how the picture up top looks.

Main Image - Billabong Snuggle Down Off the Shoulder Sweater

Fourth is this Adidas sleeveless tank. This is the first athletic type shirt that I have purchased and just love it. I’ve seen many of my friends with these athletic shirts and I’ve been on the look out for one that I could wear. I order a large in this top because I wasn’t sure how it would fit. I figured it was a little bigger than normal, it would be fine, because I don’t really like tight fitting clothing anyways. I will say that I am 5 foot 3 inches tall and this top goes down until about a hands length from my knee. So I could throw on some leggings with this top or just wear skinny jeans and tuck in the front a bit for a more slouchy look.

Main Image - adidas Originals Trefoil Logo Relaxed Fit Tank

Fifth are these Steve Madden thigh high boots. Now I’m a little sad about this purchase because I decided to return them. I am completely in love with these boots and the style. I’ve been wanting a thigh high pair of boots but I found that these were not the ones for me. I found that the shape of my legs didn’t complement the style of the shoe. Because they are a thigh high boot and my thighs are on the thicker side, they were actually not comfortable for me to wear. If you don’t have thick thighs, then these are definitely the boots for you! They are super cute and I’m bummed I can’t keep them but I gotta go with what is comfy!

Main Image - Steve Madden Gabbie Thigh High Boot (Women)

Sixth is this new Taj Clutch from Stella and Dot!! This clutch is seriously giving me life!! The embroidered detail on this is beyond amazing. I love the design and the colors. These colors are so versatile that they will go with so many different colors that you will wear in Fall. Not only is this an amazing date night bag, you can also rock this with your favorite tee shirt and jeans for a super cool day time look!

Taj Clutch | Stella & Dot

Seventh is this gorgeous necklace from Stella and Dot called the Terney Layered Necklace. For the one price you pay, you can wear this necklace in five different ways!! Can you believe that?! FIVE DIFFERENT WAYS!! The detail on this piece is amazing. The mix of colors and texture really take this piece to the next level. Make you click on the image to check out this necklace, this is one you need for fall!!!

Terney Layered Necklace | Stella & Dot

Last but definitely not least is the Bora Fringe Necklace. This is one my favorites because of the bronze and rose gold colors on this. You can still wear this with many different colors clothing wise but this necklace definitely takes your outfit to the next level.

Bora Fringe Necklace | Stella & Dot

Make sure you click on each image to shop each item. I’m telling you, you will not regret this!! These are some amazing pieces that are available now for Fall. It’s definitely the time to start building up your Fall wardrobe!

Which items are your favorite?! Leave a comment in the section below to let me know! Xoxo

the importance of a vacation!

On By meganaperezIn Fashion, UncategorizedLeave a comment

sometimes life just gets so crazy for me. my husband and i stay extremely busy so when we get the chance to go away for a couple of days, we jump at the chance. a vacation is something i will always recommend to anyone who has a busier then normal lifestyle. even if it’s just for a few days, go away and recharge yourself. when my husband and i decided to go on a cruise, i was beyond ready and excited for this. we only did a 4day/3night cruise, but that was exactly what we needed. time away from the craziness and our phones for a chance to relax and just be together. most of the time, even when we’re together, one or both of us is on our phone so we’re not really together. which is another tip for newly married couples, put the technology down when you’re spending time together. learn to talk to each other about things. joke around together. act silly with each other. just have fun together and learn to be together with no interruptions. even if it’s just for 15 minutes a day, trust me, you’ll see a difference in your relationship.

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we thoroughly enjoyed our cruise, which was through royal caribbean to the bahamas. this was our first cruise together as a married couple so it was a fun experience. normally, you need to go through an experience so you can be more prepared for the future. after this trip, i now know what i need to bring on my next cruise just in case. the first excursion we did was a beach day. and let me tell you, that sun down there is no joke. even though i applied sunscreen like 4 times that day, we still got burnt. and not just a small little sun burn but like lobster face burnt. it was terrible and i was so upset. clearly the sunscreen i brought was not strong enough. the only good thing is that we didn’t plan to do a lot of excursions. this vacation was more for lounging around and relaxing. so we brought our books to read and were able to hang out on the pool deck under the covering.

so what i wanted to do is share my experience and let you guys know what i would recommend that you bring with you on your next vacation. i always like to be over prepared and im sure you do too!

  1. sunscreen: so we brought 30 spf with us. not strong enough. i would highly recommend going with 50 spf or higher, especially if you’re going to the caribbean. the sun down there is not the same so don’t act like you know it is. be safe!
  2. aloe vera: i would highly recommend bringing some aloe vera with you especially if you’re going on a cruise. that stuff sells out quickly on the boat and it’s so overpriced anyways. in the case that you do get burned you’re going to be happy you brought this, trust me. if you don’t have aloe available to you, bring preparation-H.  it may sound crazy but this stuff legit helps relieve any burns you may get being in the sun. we tried it for my husband and it worked.
  3. small handbag: normally i love to tote around my huge MK wherever im traveling. but i have learned to carry light. bringing only the essentials. and for those times where i need to bring a lot of with me, i will always bring a small cross body with me. whenever you’re traveling, no matter where you go, i would always recommend a cross body with a zipper top. that way you can ensure your belongings are protected.
  4. books: the best things about vacation is that you can spend all day reading your favorite book and relax without feeling judged. this is the place and time to do it! sometimes cruise ships can seem boring if you’re not into drinking or gambling (which im not) so having another form of entertainment for yourself is key.
  5. comfortable shoes: this is something i missed. i wish i would have gone to like sketchers or nike to grab some comfy sandals to wear around the beach. having good shoes is no joke either.

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so there you have it! 5 of my top suggestions for traveling, either on a cruise or on land. what are your favorite travel goodies?? leave them in the comments below!

xoxo

weight loss craze!

On By meganaperezIn Fashion, UncategorizedLeave a comment

i don’t know if you’re like me, but im obsessive over the strangest things. well some strange, some not so strange. im obsessed with my skin, my hair, my eyebrows and of course my weight. ever since i finished chemotherapy, ive been obsessed with my weight. mainly because while i was on chemo, i gained so much weight. of course, as a young girl it messed with my self-esteem, i think at that age it’s something that is natural. but as ive gotten older, that obsession has both grown at times yet died at times. i go through these stages of my life where i don’t care what i weigh, and other times i can’t stop thinking about it. what ive come to realize, is all this obsessing has made me miss out on a lot of things. ive stopped enjoying food because i was so worried about gaining weight. i would stress over it so much that i actually had a reverse effect on my body. because i was so stressed over my weight, i would gain weight!! but that is just how my body works. so lately, ive come to this conclusion: this is who i am. this body is what God created for me. do i want to make sure im taking care of myself health wise? of course!! but no longer will i allow the stress of weight loss to control me. so today i wanted to share some of my favorite tips on how you can make small changes toward a healthier you!

multi vitamin: the easiest way to start on the trail to a healthy life is picking up a multi vitamin. there are so many options out there right now, but i wanted to share a few of my favorite.

  1. natures bounty women’s multivitamin: this is a good option for those who hate taking pills. these gummies taste good and are a great way to start adding in some vitamins to your day.
  2. juice plus: i’ve been taking these vitamins for over two years. i absolutely love them and how i’ve felt while taking them. i take the pill form but here are the gummy options. there are two option, the orchard and garden blend and they are made from 17 different fruits, vegetables, and grains. for those who tend to not eat a ton of fruits or veggies everyday, this is a great option.

8 glasses of water: another tip is to make sure you are drinking at least 8 glasses of water everyday! this is something i’m always working on because i tend to get caught up in my work that before i know it, it’s already time to leave and i haven’t drank any water. one way that does help to remind me is having a colorful water bottle. because the color draws my attention away from the computer screen, it prompts me to take a drink. here are super cute water bottle options for you!

  1. s’well water bottle: i love this water bottle because it’s completely insulated. it keeps my cold water cold all day long.
  2. yeti insulated tumbler: another great option. they come in fun colors and also keep your drinks cold all day long. my co-worker has this brand and is completely in love with it.
  3. contigo snapseal: this is another great option. my close friend and boss both have this brand and also love it. i’m pretty sure my boss loved it so much that she bought two!

add some color: adding some color to your food choices is always a great option! the more color, the better! add in some salad, fruits, or veggies to your meal to add some extra healthy love to your meal.

take a walk / add activity: this one, of course, isn’t my favorite but i do it. because i sit all day long at my current job, i like to make sure i spend a minimum of 30 minutes doing some kind of activity. that could be going for a long walk with my husband or getting on our stationary bike. whatever activity you like to, do at least 30 minutes a day and it will definitely help. better yet, start taking the stairs as a small step to add in some activity!

relax: this is something that i’m not the best at, but is something that is needed! stress can cause weight gain. no matter how much you change your food choices, being stressed will cause your body to gain weight. trust me, it’s happened to me plenty of times. the more i let my body relax, the easier it is for me to remain at a healthier state.

of course, these are all my personal opinions, but from my 26 years of like, i have learned what to do and what not to do when it comes keeping myself healthy. do you have tips that you do to keep yourself at your best? share them below!

xoxo

mp

victoria beckham for target

On By meganaperezIn Fashion, Uncategorized2 Comments

can we please talk about this new victoria beckham collection at target????!! i have been waiting for this release since i first saw it announced. i could barely contain myself! luckily the day it came out, i was able to snag some pieces. i live in a small town, which this time came to my advantage! after church on sunday, i decided to sneak away by myself to “take a drive.” meaning i was on my way target to check out this collection. sneaky, i know, but a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do! 

i arrived at target at the perfect time. it wasn’t busy at all. i walked up to the new collection and just started browsing. sadly, a lot of pieces were sold out in my size but i was able to still get two pieces that i loved. the first was her scalloped black halter top and the second was a black romper. both caught my eye because of the detail, and let’s face it I cannot stay away from black. it’s my color! 

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i quickly grabbed these two pieces and put them in my cart so i could get to the dressing room. like i mentioned before, there were a lot of items i really wanted to try on but they were either an x-small or x-large. nothing that worked for me. normally I could do an xl in tops and get away with it, but the way her sizes ran, it was too big. anywho, dressing room time. 

i tried on these two pieces and of course fell in love instantly, i mean who wouldn’t. the top was extremely comfortable and i just felt great in it. it’s great to wear with jeans and heels or flats and it’s perfect with dress pants for work. the detail on this top is amazing too. im not one for much overstated items, which is why i think im so drawn to this collection. victoria beckham does an amazing job at creating fashion that is eye-catching yet simple. perfect combination for me and my personality. the top size wise was good. right now, it fits more on the loose side which is what i prefer. i will most likely need to take it in at some point just because im going through this workout/weight loss phase. (not quite sure how long it will last but we shall see.) but the way the top is now, it perfect size wise for me. 

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the romper was also the perfect size. i really don’t like clothes that are too fitted. for me, im just not comfortable in extremely tight clothes, especially rompers. to me, a romper should be lose and comfy yet stylish. which is this what this romper does. it has great structure and simple detailing that i love. i will say that because of the size run, if i lose anymore weight, i will have to take this in. it’s not meant to be extremely fitted so just be mindful of that. 

i wasn’t able to get anything else cause there was nothing left in my size. but ive linked some other items that recently released with the victoria beckham collection here so that you can shop them for yourself! happy shopping loves!!

xoxo