Trend Forecast: French Fashion

Hello Fashionistas,

In one month I will be heading off to France for the adventure of a lifetime, and being the fashion lover I am, I have been doing some research on the popular fashion there. I figured for my newest trend forecast, I will predict the summer styles and give you all a little sneak peek on some of my new pieces for the trip.

From my research, I have learned that French women often stick to a very neutral color palette and they are very classic. In most stores in the U.S., you mostly find shortie shorts and crop tops, but this is not the case in France. They are much more conservative and modest in what they wear, which I appreciate and admire. I followed the whole crop top fad for a minute but then I got over it real fast, I’d appreciate a more timeless piece rather than half the fabric for the same price.

Let’s dive into it and see what the classy French women are wearing…

Stripes:

Stripes are a classic French pattern and a must-have for your French inspired wardrobe, often associated with mimes in the past but also still a relevant piece in modern fashion. I am a lover of stripes and I own many striped pieces, therefore I will be packing a lot of my stripes for France. Stripes are a often a more casual styled pattern but it can also be dressed up, these pictures above are simply inspiration I picked up from Pinterest.

A Classic Button Down:

The good ole’ button down has been around for ages and yet it is still so relevant. The button down is a classic piece every classy woman should have in her closet. I have begun to fall in love with this piece, you can be a little risque (like the first picture) and wear it with a deep plunge or you can wear an over-sized one with a pair of boyfriend jeans. I prefer to buy many of my shirts a size up so they are not skin tight, but especially with this piece.

Casual Dresses: 

I use to hate dresses when I was younger and I could never think of a reason I needed to wear them, but now I have bought so many dresses for my trip to France and I love all of them. Through my research I found so many ways to style casual summer dressed, I am not totally sure if this is a “French” style but I am hoping so because that is what I bought. I have followed my favorite blogger Sincerely Jules on her journey’s through France and Europe and she wears many cute styles like so. (She is pictured in the denim dress above, which I shared in my “3 Ways to Wear Denim This Season” post) These are just a few examples that I came across when I look up “French Summer Style”.

Hairstyles:

French women are often mistaken, stereotypes say they don’t shave nor do they shower. Both in which are myths, French women shower everyday like us but they do not always wash their hair, which may be a surprise and ‘gross’ to some but it’s actually healthier for your hair. I have never been one to wash my hair everyday and my mom is a hair dresser, so trust me it’s OK. Also, it is often stated that they never shave and this is because many French women utilize waxing and when you live on a waxing, your hair will grow longer than if you shaved it daily. Now that those two myths are broken, I chose to share these hairstyles as my examples; the blonde haired girl represents that second day hair that has sexy texture and body and the other girl is wearing a messy but chic low pony that can be worn on fresh washed hair or 3 day old hair. I love these relaxed styles, especially when I will be over there as a busy traveler, I can throw my hair in a knot and be good.

So, these are once again just my predictions of what the fashion will be like over there. Although I do not know if they hold true, I do know that the French carry themselves to a high standard and they are very classic, neutral colors are your best bet when shopping for a French adventure. Avoid the crop tops and booty shorts at all costs, take it easy on the bright colors too. I found these pictures and ideas through my highly “scholarly” research and I wanted to share them with all of you as you are building that perfect summer wardrobe. Next week I will share a more Americanized summer trend forecast. Outfits perfect for that bonfire in the country to the rooftop brunch in SOHO. Don’t miss that one!

As I mention in the beginning of this post, I wanted to give you all a sneak peek of my purchases and style for France but to see these you will have to head over to my Instagram for the day to check them out. I will begin posting them at 11:30 today, double tap your favorites so I know what you love.

Here is where you start: @betweenvogue_vangogh

Thank you all for checking out this weeks Trend Forecast. Once I return from France in August I will give you an update to this post on what’s hot and what’s not. So, if you would like to see that subscribe now at the bottom and don’t miss any of my posts. Thanks again and I wish you the best day on this sunny Monday. Set goals, break barriers and step out of your comfort zone, this is your week.

Happy Monday.

xo,

Lyss

Monday Motivation:

#GirlBoss [Heather Winia]

Hello Lovely Readers,

It’s that time again…#GirlBoss! This is my fourth #GirlBoss post in the series and I want to know everyone’s thoughts so far, what questions do you have for these powerful women that I have not yet included?

This weeks feature is a spunky fitness instructor and energetic mother, who truly encourages and empowers other women to be confident & positive. I am so excited for you all to get to know her. She has been my amazing dance for fitness instructor this whole semester and she helps me start my Monday’s & Wednesday’s on a positive foot. So, I present you with the wonderful Heather Winia:

What’s your story? 

WHO AM I?  Such a great question I think we all ask ourselves many times throughout our lives.

Here’s what I can tell you.

My name is Heather Winia and I am a proud mama of three beautifully, unique and amazing daughters.  I am an educator and Master Trainer for The World GROOVE Movement, which has connected me with a tribe of conscious truth seekers and speakers from all over the world.   I am a part-time professor at GVSU inspiring health and fitness and I am full-time lover of all things that feel really good.  Some of those things for me are spending time outdoors, getting my feet in the grass/sand and my face in the sun!   I enjoy moving my body in deeply nourishing ways and YES, I also enjoy my body, which hasn’t always been the case and is hard for most women.   I LOVE food, do NOT restrict my eating or my choices and I am all the better for it!  I consider myself a flexitarian, which means I get to eat whatever I want, whenever I want…so flexible and freeing!

I have experienced great loss in my life, first my husband left this physical world 4 years ago followed by my sister a year later.   Yet, each day I know I am blessed to wake up.  It is a gift given to me and I have gifts that I get to share with this world.   People say to me often, “I don’t know how you do it”, and all I can say is I have two choices: to NOT participate in this amazing life while I am here or to FULLY engage in this amazing life while I am here.  One of those sounds much better than the other and that is what I choose every day.  Life is too short to waste on negativity, living in ways that don’t feel good and holding onto “shoulds”, “have tos” and ‘musts”.

Favorite Quote?

One of my favorite quotes is “If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten.”  So many people keep trying things the same way expecting different results.  Another name for that is insanity.  I hope that I can inspire others to live fully the way that feels good to them without any rules or regulations.  This is YOUR LIFE and you only get one, so choose things that feel INCREDIBLE each and every day!

Daily or morning routine?

A regular practice of feel good activities is important.  For me, before I go to bed each night, I set my alarm and reflect on a positive affirmation.  My alarm app is Spirit Junkie (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/spirit-junkie/id574867953?mt=8) and it gives me a new affirmation each day.  I am passionate about getting a good night sleep (bed by 11pm) so that I wake up refreshed.  In the morning, before I open my eyes, my mind becomes conscious and I begin my gratitude practice.  Simply running through things in my mind I am grateful for, people, events and even situations that don’t seem great, but are teaching me something and helping me grow.  I then begin to stretch my body, being grateful for all it does for me each day.  When my feet hit the floor, I am aware that today is a gift and I get to create it!  I drink a glass of room temperature water before anything else and then I’m off and running.  Kids, school, house cleaning, bills, the dog, friends, groceries and an attitude of gratitude for it all.  If I didn’t love it and it didn’t feel good, it would be my job and my pleasure to change it until it did.   Lyrics from a really good song say it best. “Life is short to play silly games.” (Perfect by Fairground Attraction https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/fairground-attraction/id2931272)  This is a great song to sing at the top of your lungs and of course we DANCE to it in GROOVE sessions all the time.  And I cannot forget, DANCING and SINGING are two priorities I schedule in EVERYday to make me feel amazing!!!  It is my hope that everyone dances through life, using their voice for truth and confidently knowing you cannot get your life wrong, just try it and see!  If it isn’t working, make a different choice.  It really can be that simple!  No drama, confusion or expectations, just simplicity because SIMPLICITY FEEDS YOUR SOUL!

I was so thrilled to be able to have Heather be a feature on #GirlBoss this week. I have been so inspired and empowered by her this semester and I know through her line of work she has done this to hundreds of women. She is the perfect example of why I started this #GirlBoss series, to find women who empower and inspire other women to be their best self and not judge one another.

In our dance for fitness class, we test our fears and break barriers to find our most free and happy self. I LOVE this aspect, it really starts my day in an amazing, positive way. This class has taught me to be more carefree about what others are thinking about me, and I think that is what the point of GROOVE is. Besides being an awesome way to get fit, I think it is a program that teaches people to free themselves and express themselves through dance. It really is a freeing experience if you allow yourself to be fully engaged. If you are a GVSU student I highly recommend her as an instructor, and if you are not I encourage you all to try a GROOVE class sometime. It is such a fun experience!

Today’s Quote from me:

I picked this quote because I felt like it went well with my #GirlBoss feature. We as people, especially women, often feel as though we need to be like everyone else because we fear that if they act different, we will be weird. I wish we could break this norm and realize that being the same is boring, the world is more beautiful when people act like themselves and be who they want to be. Women are constantly held to this standard, we have to have this “perfect” look to impress guys and we have to wear expensive clothes to fit in with the other girls, but we absolutely do not have to. So, if you are finding yourself trying to fit the norms of society…STOP! Be yourself, don’t be the same be better. Being the same is boring; be bright, “weird” and most of all be yourself.

Thank you all for reading this weeks #GirlBoss, I hope you all love it! Remember to share this post with friends and family, if you like it.  Also, subscribe to keep getting all my newest posts. This weekend is the UICA Color of the Year event and I will be attending the opening to bring you a review on the works of art.Also, next week I will be attending another Fashion Show with Simply Tess, so be sure to tune in for an amazing post on that. Thank you again for reading today.

Happy Wednesday.

xo,

Lyss

 

#GirlBoss [Alexa Wagner]

Hello Cuties,

It’s time for another #GirlBoss post and I am super excited about this one. Today’s girl has experienced and overcame some tough obstacles in life, she inspires me and hopefully you too.

Today’s magnificent and gorgeous #GirlBoss is Alexa Wagner from Michigan/California.

1. What’s your story?

Hey Y’all. My Name is Alexa Wagner, and I am HEALTH AND FITNESS NUT, but that sounds like everyone these days right? Yep! BUT what makes me unique & every Health and Fitness Nut out there unique is the journey that got you there, because you “aren’t born that way”. Let me start off by telling you, I’m still your average person. I have days were I have to give myself pep talks to get through my workouts (like hey you’re a bad ass you can do this, love you) because I feel unmotivated. I have days were I may have bad body image, or times where I fluctuate in weight, or days where I ate like crap and periods where I feel off, and unlike my normal self. I’m human, were all human, and it would be lying if we all said we haven’t been there. It’s how you overcome it, remind yourself you and your body are worth loving and move forward. I also LOVE and practice a Healthy Life Style majority of the time & teach others how to as well, and this doesn’t mean I’m perfect at it. To be honest I picked this lifestyle to remind myself how “Healthy & Happy Feels every day and share that LOVE with everyone else”

Here’s my journey: 3 years ago I was forced to stop working out and was told the death sentence to my ears, “You may never be able to work out “intensely” again, and you need a REST”. Rest!? Rest is for the weak, the dead, I work 5 jobs & go to school full time, there’s no rest for this woman! What I heard was my life crumbling out from beneath me and my happiness flying out the window. I was diagnosed with 3 auto-immune diseases and more left “unknown”. I was scared, MAD at the world “WHY ME!?” and resisted to except the truth. Finally my body caved and exercises wasn’t an option, because nothing was an option. I had to quit school, quit my job, I struggled getting out of bed, I struggled picking up my head, gained 25 pounds over night, had little self confidence, and most of all my pride and lively hood was shrunk to nothing, I didn’t even feel like the “Confident, bubbly, go-getting, work out freak, obnoxious person I was!” At this point I was living in Santa Barbara ( The California Dream) where I moved after 2 years of College at Western Michigan University to follow my dreams to become a Physical Therapist, and of course find the man of my dreams & buy a cute little house on the beach with a white picket fence…I drove a Vespa, shopped at the farmers markets daily, drank matcha every morning at my favorite coffee shop, went to a college on the beach, worked as a PT assistant, worked in the nutrition department at the hospital, trained TRX in the park 2-3 times a week, drank a green juice daily and ran morning boot camps at the college, while finding time for my own workouts and running on the beach most mornings, OH and I trained at a gym, met great friends, SEEMS LIKE THE LIFE HUH!? When you’re sick, nothing is great. But the main point here is:

When you’re not doing what you’re passionate about, it’s not very fun either. That was me, I was sick, lost and couldn’t figure out my passion. I thought well I’m going to be sick forever, I’m kind of good at a lot of little things, but not GREAT at anything. I could have gave up here & excepted my body and health for what it was and lived life this way, BUT THERE WAS NO WAY, there’s always a way to make a change and I was determined to feel better, when everyone ( Doctors) was telling me I wouldn’t … I was forced to sit back, slow down and evaluate my life & sometimes that’s all you need, a little reset, time to focus on yourself, think about yourself, nourish your mind, body and soul. After stepping away from my 5 crazy jobs, I still trained people in the park, because I used little energy and I began working at Juice Bar and learning what Holistic things I could do for my body. I thought “Hey why not get into the FOOD aspect of Fitness if I can’t do the physical part” (When I truly understood that food choices are powerful and life affirming, my life changed) and …

BAM I CURED MYSELF. Just kidding, if it was that easy I would be the “Auto Immune Goddess Doctor” of the world, since there’s not much cure for Auto Immune issues, YET! Also if you want to know more, I’ll tell you more, it gets better, I promise. I won’t bore you with my health issues anymore, but I will say, My Auto Immune Issues (I AM BAT SHIT CRAZY FOR SAYING THIS) were a twisted blessing that guided me into being the NEW FOUND HEALTHY, HAPPY, PASSIONATE PERSON I AM TODAY! Who would have thought!? Continuation of the Journey: I quit my Juice Bar Job, (to continue figuring out my health & visit specialist who could further help me heal) packed my bags and moved back to good ol’ Michigan! Here is where I starting living my passion. This passion had been my way of life I’ve loved since I realize what working out does to your body (oh back in high school, when my Gym teacher told me I would be a gym teacher, or personal trainer one day, DID I LISTEN, NOOO!?) I wanted to live this passionate life all along but I was SCARED to express it and live it in fear of rejection society pressure and fear of maybe not living that picture perfect life with a great job, making tons of money and living the Good life. Guess what!? I do LIVE the good Life, I LIVE THE BEST LIFE. SO WANT TO KNOW WHAT THAT LIFE IS? I know you’re dying to hear…

Remember that girl I told you about? The one with Auto Immune Diseases? Who was told she couldn’t work out? The one who ate like crap some days? Faced weight issues, self confidence? Well she’s in the past.

So let me introduce myself to you again, hi! I am Alexa Wagner, I just landed a dream job in Downtown Detroit as a Personal Trainer Coordinator (here’s my chance to brag). I am a Personal Trainer along with a Health Coach, TRX specialist, Spinning teacher (yes the crazy lady on a bike, yelling, sweating, singing) Group Fitness Instructor ( you name it, I teach it ) High school girls basketball Coach and practice a healthy eating lifestyle. My hobbies include working out, eating healthy food, physical activity, then working out some more, oh and eating healthier, delicious food… get it? I LOVE working out, I LOVE eating Food, but really I LOVE to see other people succeed in their healthy life styles, because YOU are the people who make me Passionate and MOTIVATE & INSPIRE ME. “Exercise is a blessing, not a chore in my life, and I work out because I am beyond grateful that I physically can.” I am not my own Motivator, the people around me who practice this lifestyle, share their journeys and struggles are my Motivators! I am just like anyone else, I need motivation, encouragement, and a little kick in the butt. I am human and my career choice doesn’t come with guaranteed abs of steal, a rocking bikini body, 100% pure confidence, or perfect eating day and day out. I remind myself constantly and so should everyone: “One workout at a time. One day at a time. One meal at a time”

So- watch out world, because I’m back, Healthier, Happier and Stronger (mentally and physically) than Ever and I’m forming a tribe to kick this life in the butt with me! WHO’S JOINING? There are people facing obstacles everyday of all sorts. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help, because we’re all in this JOURNEY together. “The best way to not feel helpless in your journey is to just get up and do something. Don’t wait for food things to happen to you. If you go out and make some good things happen, you will fill the world and others with hope and most importantly you will fill yourself with hope” So what’s your story? Ready to share? READY TO TAKE ON THIS LIFE STYLE AND CONQUER THE WORLD?

It’s never too late to feel confident, healthy and strong. We have one life, one body, one mind, it’s all about how we live it, feed it and nourish it.

Words and Beliefs I live by:

I don’t diet, I just eat. I eat healthy to feel good, to have energy. I work out to feel good, to be strong. I work out because I love it and want to, BUT to be healthy. I work out for my mind, soul, for my body, for MYSELF There is no limit to self- love I work out to look good, but really to set an example. Empowered women, should always empower other women I work out to embrace how confident, powerful and fabulous I am. I eat healthy because my body deserves it, I deserve it. I work out and healthy because I COME FIRST. I work out because that’s what I like to do, and no one’s stopping me. I eat healthy to feel healthy, so I can feel beautiful. Healthy comes in many shapes, and sizes. Celebrate the Uniqueness of your body. I work out BECAUSE I CAN. I show gratitude every day. I love the journey of fitness because it’s a process of transformation and self-actualization. The fitness life gives you gifts along the way. Embrace your belonging in the world in the healthiest way possible. Don’t just live, be Alive, live life with purpose, have a mission, set goals, conquer them and most importantly, BE PASSIONATE. GET EXCITED ABOUT TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF. There are people facing obstacles everyday of all sorts. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help, because we’re all in this JOURNEY together.

“The best way to not feel helpless in your journey is to just get up and do something. Don’t wait for good things to happen to you. If you go out and make some good things happen, you will fill the world and others with hope and most importantly you will fill yourself with hope” So what’s your story? Ready to share? READY TO TAKE ON THIS LIFE STYLE AND CONQUER THE WORLD? It’s never too late to feel confident, healthy and strong. We have one life, one body, one mind, it’s all about how we live it, feed it and nourish it.

2. What inspires you?

It’s hard to pin point exactly what or who inspires me, because I will say there are lots of things that inspire me. A lot of the times people see inspiration only as the “Finished Project”.  For example, a rich and successful person or someone who seems to “Have it All”; a nice house, a nice car, maybe a GREAT BODY, etc…

I find inspiration in the process of this. I have met a lot of wonderful people working multiple jobs in college, moving to California and living here in Michigan. I also get inspired mainly by just “talking/networking” with people. Some of the most inspirational people I’ve met I’ve talked to for 15 minutes and to be honest, probably can’t remember their name.

What inspires me is the act of creating things, applying new ideas to our goals and making MISTAKES (that we are ok with) because that’s when you discover what’s Important to you and who we are. This kind of inspiration results in a long term passion. People who experiment and take risks to produce their dreams are the people who inspire me.

3. Who is your role model?

I’ve had a lot of “Role Models” in my life because it’s a broad meaning. One person who I see as my role model is my Sister. We are completely different people and I don’t necessarily aspire to be “like” my sister but I admire her values, as a sister, mother, daughter and friend. Her hard work through life as a single mother who attended nursing school with 3 children and was often a mother figure to me, motivated me to always keep chasing my goals through any type of adversity. She has also always been my #1 fan, she is always helping people around her be and become, happy successful individuals. When you have people who empower other people, that’s VERY EMPOWERING itself, and I have learned that from my sister.

4. A morning or daily ritual?

I wake up and give myself enough time to “Relax” usually about 1-2 hours. Sound crazy right? I just slept 7-8 hours?

I make a schedule  for everyday in my iPhone Calendar, where I put in events, client training time, reminders, EATING time,  personal WORK out  time, study time, etc.; adding little inspirational reminders to keep me going throughout the day.

So in the morning I want time to make my Morning Matcha, let my body and brain wake up, look over how my day is going to go, think positive thoughts and evaluate the best way to go into my day and then KICK ASS.

Our lives (everyone’s) are so busy and we need time for mentally clarity and preparation, as well as self-inspiration. I have to mentally pump myself up for the day, some days more than others

5. Favorite Quote?

“When you teach what you love and share what you know, you open eyes, minds, hearts and souls to unexplored worlds”

Every single person is a teachers of some sort and their career or passion can be applied to other people’s lives, in their careers and life. I’ve learned a lot through people who don’t DO anything related to Fitness and Health. It’s important to do the things you love and are passionate about, because it inspires others to do the same thing no matter what it may be. Sometimes you don’t even have to verbally teach others anything, when you are passionate about something, it shines and that’s a lesson itself.

 

6. Any career or life advice?

Advice I have got that has helped me is to not worry so much about the outcome, instead focus on the process and do the things that bring you happiness first before worrying about others around you, that naturally follows. I for so long had my life on a time and money plan. I thought I must be done with college at a certain age, be a Doctor, become rich, find my Prince Charming, buy a house with a white picket fence, have cute little blonde kids, and BAM that’s success!

My life HASN’T gone that way at all, and I’m happy it hasn’t.

Adversity I have faced through school, health issues, family and moving has taught me that stressing about MONEY and TIME never allows time for passion. I wasn’t putting myself on a time line for Happiness, I was following what I thought was happiness and Success due to social norms. Passion turns into success (money, time and happiness).

Of course I still stress about money and time because I picked a path that is not a LOT of money currently, but it will take me longer to build this passion into my life long career. Although it may take some time, I am willing to wait because I LOVE WHAT I DO, and it will turn into the Success that our society, and us, as Human Beings yearn for!

 

I have known Alexa for a few years now and she has always been someone who inspired me, with her bubbly vibe and her positive attitude. I was so excited to feature her in one of my #GirlBoss posts. If you are interested in learning more about Alexa or connecting with her, I will add her social media below.

Facebook: Alexa Wagner | Instagram: @druealexa

Remember, the purpose of my #GirlBoss posts is to inspire other women to be happy and confident with themselves, and learn to build up other women, rather than tear them down. In a world where women are taught to compete, let’s break that barrier and learn to empower each other. Everyone has their flaws, but that does not define them. Be the one that sees the gold in a person, rather than the dirt.

Monday Inspiration:

It’s a new week and a new chance to take the bull by the horns, how will you control and plan your week to make it the most productive week possible? I have already sat down and wrote out all my upcoming deadlines and exams, plus events and meetings I have to attend for my blog. This helps me have a clear mind for the next few weeks, knowing what I have to accomplish minimizes some of my stress. I have not been able to sit down and do this in a while with my work schedule, so it feels nice to have things back on track. If you are feeling scatter-brained, try to make some time for you to sit down and write out what has to be done.

Thank you all so much for reading today. I hope you tune in this Wednesday for one of my biggest and best posts yet. I cannot wait to share this event with you and hear your feedback. If you like this post, share it! If you want to see more, Subscribe below! If you can’t get enough, follow me on Twitter & Facebook! Thanks again for your massive support. In the next couple of months I have some awesome events planned, plus I will begin to prepare for my trip to France. I will probably be starting a segment on that in May. Subscribe now so you don’t miss out later.

Happy Monday.

xo,

Lyss

 

 

#GirlBoss [Wendy Miles]

Hello Beautiful Readers,

I am starting a new series on my blog called #GirlBoss, where I will highlight a different woman every week [or every other week]. These women are women who live a life that inspires and empowers others. They are women that are hard working and set examples to women around the world. I cannot wait to begin this segment of my blog, I think it will not only be inspiring but hopefully motivating to other women. I hope you all like it as well, let’s get started with our first ever #GirlBoss.

Our first #GirlBoss is the beautiful and inspiring Wendy Miles from Hawaii. Let’s ask her a few questions…

1. What’s your daily life like? Share a little bit about yourself.

Aloha! I am a Wife to Brett Miles, Mom to Emmalynn Miles [& my puppy, Remington], Army Nurse Officer, & now Health & Fitness Coach. My main hobby is being with my family, & watching Miss Emmalynn grow into this beautiful, smart toddler! When I am not at work or with my family exploring this beautiful island of Hawaii, I am working with others to help them reach their health & fitness goals! I am passionate about living a healthy lifestyle & helping others. Of course, as a Health & Fitness Coach, I want to inspire others by working just as hard as them [if not harder] & show them that it is possible to find ways to be healthy when you are busy or lacking on money. Everyday is a new adventure for me as I learn more about myself through personal development books & learning to balance everything that is important to me in life.

2. What inspires you?

EVERYTHING! I literally have changed so much in the last couple of months in terms of thinking positive & seeing the good in people. Reading personal development books really help me focus on building my confidence, because I am constantly growing personally & professionally. I have come to the conclusion that I would rather be respected than liked! This has been a process of development that I know I will continue to work on forever. Nothing is worth getting so upset about that you can’t concentrate on all the good in life. Positive vibes will spread like wildflower- & it is important to remember that leadership traits are not something you are born with, but something that you can learn, change & grow as time goes on! My husband has been my biggest fan in anything & everything I do. He stands by me & encourages me to be a better person. He has currently lost 77 pounds with a full time job & working as a real estate agent then with our move to Hawaii, I couldn’t be more proud of him sticking to his goals. He is the most fantastic father & husband. He continues to push me to reach my goals & supports me everyday. BUT ultimately, my biggest inspiration/mentor is the vision God gave me for what was possible if I let go of my excuses & simply got to work!

3. What is a morning or daily ritual you have?

We all have the same 24 hours in a day & the same 7 days in a week. I can tell you that I am not superwoman… I WISH!  I definitely make decisions each day about what is most important based on what I need to accomplish for the day.  I can’t humanly do it all and be everything to everyone so I pick what is the most important and I just accept that this is what I can do!  Every night I go to bed and tell myself, I couldn’t of done a fingertip more!  That is ENOUGH for me! Ask my husband, I wake up at the crack of dawn & I go to bed late.

Work Days:
0400 Wake Up, Work out, Get Ready, Eat Breakfast
0620 Head to work until 2000 [8:00pm-ISH because depends on my patients that day]
Shower, Dinner, Talk to my Family, Put Emmalynn to bed & work on some Coaching work, Bed.

Home Days:
0500 Wake Up [Usually], Work out, Get Ready, Eat Breakfast, Clean the House, Coaching work.
Then – Spend the day with my Family [Hiking, Shopping, Driving around the Island, Beach, Park, Walks, etc]
Home to cook dinner, Movie/TV, Coaching Work, Bed.
Boring, I know but on Brett & I have off we usually wake up work out, eat then we become tourist here on the island & go to the beach or hike!

4. Favorite quote?

“If you know me based on a year ago then you don’t know me at all. My growth game is STRONG. Allow me re-introduce myself.”
This quote, hits the nail right on the head! I am a totally different person than I was a year ago. Having Emmalynn gave me a new outlook on life. She makes me want to be a better person. I want her to grow up & look to me as her role model. I want her to know that I value my family, my life, & my faith above all else. I want her to grow up being confident, kind & strong & it starts by feeling & acting in those ways myself.

5. Career or life advice?

Be POSITIVE & don’t be quick to judge. You must be ready to face your biggest obstacle to become successful & that is – YOU! It takes getting over yourself & having the willingness to step out of your comfort zone to help others along the way to succeed in anything.

If you want to learn more about Wendy or connect with her personally check out her Facebook page and add her as a friend. Wendy is also hosting a FREE clean eating challenge, like her page to figure out details now. 

>>Add Wendy as a Friend | Follow her page <<<

Wendy attended the same high school as me and we have been Facebook friends for awhile now. I love seeing her posts and she has been inspiring me in my fitness goals recently. I was so happy to reach out to her and have her be my first #GirlBoss because she definitely deserves it, from being an army nurse to a mommy & wife, these are jobs that take a lot of dedication. I really hope you guys check out her page because she is amazing.

This was the first ever #GirlBoss and I cannot wait to continue with these, I hope you all loved reading it as much as I loved writing it. There are so many women out there that go unrecognized for their accomplishments and hard work, I want to help highlight these women and let them know they are inspiring others. I really want you all to share this post and give Wendy some love. Let’s start lifting each other up, rather than tearing each other own. I loved doing this post and there is another one coming for next week, stay tuned. (A.K.A. Subscribe below) Thank you all for reading today!

Monday inspiration: 

Happy Monday.

xo,

Lyss