Sporty Mommas

What Moms Really Want

Filed under: Mom Life ·

Mother’s Day is right around the corner so I know the hubby and the kids are already planning on what they are going to give us this year. (Hint, Hint) Most moms really just want a few hours to themselves to relax, a clean house and to eat dinner while it is hot, sitting down. Do you stand up while eating too? But…. if you need some other suggestions here are our Top Ten gift ideas for Mother’s Day.

 

1.

You can never go wrong with a nice handbag!

2.

Nike Sporty Chic Jumpsuit to chase the kids in!

3.

Something sassy and sweet

4.

 

Instead of one massage, a monthly massage membership!

 

5.

A pair of running shoes because most of ours are 3+ years old!

 

6.

Anything from Tiffany’s

7.

A clean house!

 

8.

A flowering plant that will last for years and remind us of our children’s love

9.

Fenty Beauty Products!

 

10.
A sweet note of thanks for all of the hard work that we do daily!

 

 

XO,

Sharonda

The Best Last Minute Party

Filed under: Mom Life ·

Do you have a hard time planning parties for your kids? I use to love party planning. I loved it so much that I wouldn’t really let anyone help me. But I realized that the older the kids got, the busier their schedules got and well I am the one running around like a chicken with my head cut off. So about two years ago I hired a party planner. It was very cool, but very expensive. Since it was my oldest 10th birthday we went all out to celebrate her turning “double digits”!

 

 

 

 

Well this year I said no party because well how can I say this ……I am exhausted. (That’s a whole different blog post.) However, my very intelligent child creatively found a way to convince her dad to have a party. He said yes, so I told him that he could throw the party. Yep, I sure did! You probably all know how that went.   The closer we got to the date I had to take over and get shit done. Thanks to a charity bowling event that we attended late last year, I remembered that King’s Bowl was really cool and would make the perfect party place for Tweens! So we took a little trip to Doral to scope the place out. My daughter loved it, the date was available and now all we had to do was pray that the attendees wouldn’t mind the 25 minute drive north.

 

 

 

 

 

When we arrived, Jewels our server for the evening helped me get everything out of the car. By the time that I paid the valet, he had the balloons perfectly arranged in our private party area. All we needed to do next was to display the favors and bunny’s cupcakes. I had to get vegan and gluten free treats for some of the kids with food sensitivities. (So if you ever need special treats Bunny’s Cakes will not disappoint.) Everything was good to go 20 minutes before our guests arrived so we headed outside for a mini photoshoot.

 

 

The guests started arriving right on time. The music was pumping and thanks to the big screen tv’s we were able to watch the end of the Miami Heat playoff game. It was the perfect party place. Everyone kept commenting on the location and how cool the private party room was. The disco balls and strobe lights gave it the perfect touch. All I had to do was mingle and smile! I even got to dance with some of my favorite Sporty Mommas.

 

 

 

 

The party was a blast. The girls had a great time. They crushed the pizzas and drinks as soon as they came out. I could not keep enough food on the displays (growing kids) Most importantly I didn’t have to work to hard. Jewels made sure that we had everything that we needed. Including a King’s-Tini for momma! We ended up with over 40 kids plus a few parents. I was glad that I didn’t have to clean up afterwards.   My daughter was all smiles and actually said thank you. That’s what mattered the most. So if you ever need a last minute party place, King’s Bowl is the bomb!

 

 

 

XO,

Sharonda

Fabulous Fashion on a Budget!

Filed under: Fashion, Mom Life ·

Happy Friday Sporty Mommas! Earlier this week I got tons of compliments on this two piece set that I wore to a luncheon. Guess what?  An outfit under $100 can still be a huge hit! I bet you would have never thought that it was $50 because I paired it with my Tory Burch sandals and a Gucci bag. I have learned over the past few years that high-low fashion is here to stay. Most celebrities mix and match all of the time. Just look at Instagram and see Beyonce in Top Shop or Cardi B in Fashion Nova! I haven’t worn a coordinated set in years but this color was screaming my name as I walked by the rack. The best thing is it doesn’t need to be ironed!!!!! So here are the details on my look. And by now if you know me, you know I got it from my favorite store Zara! Happy Shopping!!!!

 

 

 

 

XO,

Sharonda

Himalayan Salt Massage

Filed under: Fit Moms ·

Have you ever tried a Himalayan salt massage? When I arrived at my monthly massage appointment last week I saw the pink salt lamps and were drawn to their energizing light. So I read the sign. Upgrade your massage for only $30 and a list of some of the benefits. I already had a few lamps in my home to help clean the air so I figured I better try this. I needed all of the benefits that were listed lol. 

 

 

I wasn’t quite sure what I was getting myself into but I figured hey let’s give it a try. The spa is trendy and pretty up to date with the latest therapies, so it should be cool. But honestly, it wasn’t exactly what I expected.  The salt rocks were a little hot to me at first. I quickly told the therapist and she cooled them down. (No burns in case you were wondering) Instead of using their hands they used the rocks most of the time to massage my body. My first response was that it was ok. I mean I liked it, I was relaxed but I didn’t feel like they got all of the kinks out. I couldn’t tell right away but later on that day my body felt lighter and I kept running to pee so that meant some serious detoxing was taking place. So it definitely works and I will definitely do it again. 

 

 

When I got a free minute I looked up the benefits of a Himalayan salt massage and I was shocked to see how powerful these pretty pink rocks are. Himalayan Salt is the most beneficial, cleanest salt on the planet. It is over 250 million years old. Here are the top 10 benefits of a Himalayan salt massage.

Benefits of Himalayan Salt Massage

1. Detoxify and alkaline the body

2. Clears energy

3. Stones provide 84 essential mineral and trace components 

4. Reduces the signs of aging

5. Improves circulation 

6. Calms the nervous system

7. Improves sleep

8. Reduce inflammation

9. Improves digestion

10. Energizes

 

 

If you are not quite ready for a salt massage try adding Himalayan salt to your food or make yourself a warm Himalayan salt bath. Your body will thank you! #treatyourself 

 

XO,

Sharonda

Why you should splurge on a great pair of leggings!

Filed under: Fashion, Fit Moms ·

For years I had serious issues paying over $100 for a pair of leggings. I mean hey I am a mom of three kids that always seem to need new clothes, shoes, fees for sports activities and the thought of splurging on a pair of Lululemon leggings for myself was absurd. I found myself often browsing the racks of Marshalls and TJ Maxx and sometimes Macy’s looking for a pair that weren’t see through or unsupportive. I always ended up buying a few pair at a time because they were typically $29.99 or $49.99 and that seemed like a deal. But what I didn’t pay attention to was the fabric, lack of support and how I was always buying new ones because they didn’t last long. Don’t get me wrong those stores have amazing deals and I love a great deal but I needed gym leggings with a little more compression and support for this aging body. #almost40

Carbon38

One day a friend of mine told me that Lululemon was having a sale. I didn’t even know that they had sales because I never walked into one of the stores. So, I eagerly took my first trip to Lululemon at Merrick Park. As I touched and observed all of the different styles and colors, I still felt this guilt like I really should not be spending this kind of money on workout clothes. But…they were on sale so I tried on a few pair. I could not believe what I was missing all of these years. I loved the compression and the fit. It was like an instant booty lift. When I walked my thighs didn’t jiggle. OMG! I was in heaven. I will never forget that I purchased my first pair of black Lululemon leggings with a gift card from my brother. (I know crazy right I still wouldn’t spend my own money) but after wearing them a few times I told myself that I deserved to splurge every now and then. And you do too!

Lululemon

So here are a few tips to save on designer leggings. First, always check the outlet stores. They might be out of season but they still look great. Almost every department store now has an active wear section. I was amazed to see a whole section in Neiman Marcus dedicated to just active wear. If you’re looking for cutting-edge fashion women’s activewear, it’s worth exploring specialty stores and online boutiques that offer unique styles. These places often carry the latest trends and high-performance fabrics designed to keep you looking stylish while working out.

Second, search online sites like RueLaLa for special sales. You can also use those Macy’s coupons for an extra 20% off on brands like Nike and Adidas in store. The brands that I currently love are Alo Yoga, Nike, Lululemon and just ordered my first pair from Carbon38. Third, just do it!!! Your body will thank you for it. If you are like me and feel guilty for buying high end workout clothes, don’t be. Just look at it this way when you look good, you feel good and everyone knows that you feel REALLY good wearing a new outfit to the gym. #killinit


Alo Yoga

XO,

Sharonda

For YOU Moms

Filed under: Mom Life ·

I haven’t really blogged for a while. Well actually since Valentine’s Day. The school shooting that occurred in S. Florida shook me to my core. It was horrible and to see it daily on the news and social media literally burned my soul. I didn’t know what to tell my kids and I didn’t know why I was taking it so hard. After a few weeks I realized that it wasn’t just the shooting, it was all of the events and drama that seem to be piling up in the world we live in.

 

As mothers we carry a load that only a mom really knows about. We are not just caretakers some of us really do carry way to much of the load. I felt heavy and well very emotional. This isn’t the kind of world I thought my kids would grow up in. Heck, I didn’t even think me at 39 would be experiencing some of this stuff. But it is here and it seems like it’s happening on a daily basis. I am a planner, I always come up with a plan or strategy to get things done or a way to handle tough situations but for a month I have been stuck.

So I kept picking up books and reading inspirational quotes and stuff. I looked for people to blame for what I was feeling but none of that seem to work either. Then one day I accepted my true feelings for what they were. Anger. Built up anger. I was angry that I was not in control. No matter how hard we try as parents our kids will be exposed to the craziness in the world. And life will throw things at us that are totally out of our control.

I reached out to my closest friends only to discover that they too where going through hard stuff. So what do you do? Do you throw in the towel and sink in your own mess or do you make a plan and keep it moving. I always make a plan but sometimes it is hard to keep moving when you can’t see where you are going.  That is where God steps in. I had to renew my faith and accept that this phase of my life is part of God’s plan. I had to look at my bible in a different way and reach back out to my friends who may have needed that reminder as well.

So this post is for you moms that may be feeling a little down and out. Know that you are not alone and there are lots of moms that are feeling exactly what you are feeling at this very moment. I am here to remind you to rest but don’t quit. Take a trip to the beach. Call your tribe of moms and have a night out on the town. Maybe head out to Sephora and buy a new tube of lipstick or a new pair of heels. Whatever you do to hype yourself up. I like to look at old pictures from 10 years ago and it reminded me of how far God has brought me and that He has never left my side. Sending you lots of love and light!

 

 

XO,

Sharonda

 

Busy Mom in Miami? Shipt.com has you covered!

Filed under: Mom Life ·

Moms save time with shipt.com Miami delivery service is now available. Things just got a whole lot easier for busy mommas like us. Shipt.com is now offering same day delivery from guess where……Target!  Yes, Target! I was thrilled to see the signs when I walked into Target a few weeks ago. You know how much time we spend driving around from drop offs, pick ups, playdates, the grocery store, tutor, doctor appointments, the gym…. if you are like me, we  practically live in our cars. But what if you could order your groceries and other basic necessities (even diapers and toys) and they can be delivered to your front door within 2 hours? I think that would be pretty amazing.

 

I’ve been wanting to try Shipt.com out for a while but yeah I was a little hesitant about someone else doing my grocery shopping for me. What if they don’t get what I asked for? Are they touching my food? Yes, I am that mom, but today I woke up feeling extremely tired and a little under the weather. I promised my kids tacos for Taco Tuesday. So I decided to give shipt.com a try. It was so quick and easy. I just created an account, added items to my cart, double checked to see if anything was missing and submitted my order. Super duper easy! Now I can take my time, relax and sip on some hot tea instead of rushing to Target. (I think I feel better already)

 

 

Minutes after placing my order, Donna my personal shopper greeted me with a text. She let me know that if I had any questions or needed to add to my order to just give her a ring. She even notified me when the salsa that I selected was unavailable and sent me pics of what was on the shelf. By 11:05 she was at the door with a smile. I was pleased to see my items in a cooler to keep them fresh. Donna carried the groceries inside and made sure that I had everything. She was super friendly and very professional. I was pleasantly surprised.

 

 

 

I think shipt.com is a great service for new moms, busy mommas on the go and grandmas that might not get around like they use to. Actually it’s great for anybody who doesn’t have a lot of time to go to the store. You can download the app on your smartphones or order from your computer. Donna reminded me that I could order almost anything from Target except furniture. How awesome is it to save time and get the things that you need in under two hours? Even though I am not feeling 100%, Taco Tuesday can go on without a hitch. I have all of my goodies to make sure that the kids enjoy their dinner. Only thing missing is the margaritas!

 

 

 

*Thank you to shipt.com for kindly sponsoring this post. All opinions are 100% honest & completely my own.

 

 

 

XO,

Sharonda

Are we Making the Right decisions?

Filed under: Mom Life ·

My morning started out like it usually does. One of my kids is always up before the others so the alarms start to ring. I think we have like four morning alarm clocks that go off between 6:45 and 7:15. I made sure that I actually got out of bed instead of hitting the snooze button so I could take out my daughter’s twists for school.  The hubby and I did our normal tag team routine. He makes their breakfast and starts their lunch while I dress the younger kids and pack their bags. It is a little hectic but we always get it done.

On the way to school we listen to music or talk about whatever my son wants to chat about. Most of the time it is the Miami Heat but today he wanted to talk about Black Panther. The kids enjoyed the movie last night but had a lot of questions. Before I knew it we are in the drop off line and I am tossing their bags out of the car because we are running few minutes late. I tell them I love you and have a great day. They say I love you too and hurry off to class.

Then it hit me like a ton a bricks. Can you imagine those moms that lost their kids last week? They probably did the same thing I just did. Last Wednesday I spent the hours running around buying gifts and making sure the table was set full of treats, balloons and gifts so they would feel extra special on Valentine’s Day.  I went to like three different stores trying to find something for everyone. I don’t know why I just wanted to make everyone happy that day.

I  scheduled a lab appointment on Valentine’s Day for my son because it was the next available appointment and I thought we would be in and out. Who wants to get their blood drawn on V-Day?  As I was sitting in the lab holding my son’s hand at 2:20 p.m. the male nurse turned and asked me if I was okay. I guess my facial expression said it all. I told him yes that I was just trying to get use to this. But I felt something down in my soul. Fatigue, uncertainty maybe it was even fear.  Little did I know that just a few miles away kids were literally running for their lives. There were some moms, dads, husbands and wives just like us who planned the perfect Valentine’s Day to only come home without their loved ones.

I have spent the past few days like most moms sad, angry and questioning our every move? Do we send our kids to school? Is it safe to go to church? Is it safe to go to the movies? Do I need to get trained and licensed to bear arms? How did this happen? Why? How can we fix this?

The truth is our world is in a very bad place. There are so many hurt people that want to hurt others to numb their pain. But that only creates more hurt and pain. What the world needs, especially our children, is more LOVE. If your child shows some signs of mental illness, don’t be embarrassed, get them help. Don’t ignore the signs. It is the best thing we can do for our kids.  Love. If your child or any other family member is struggling with addiction or substance abuse, you may help them seek treatment for a mental health guide. The luxury drug rehab center at Carrara in Los Angeles offers unparalleled care. Their programs combine advanced therapies with a serene, high-end setting.

For those seeking a detox in Los Angeles, Method Treatment offers a top-tier program that combines luxury with clinical excellence. Their personalized approach ensures a safe and effective detox experience.

XO,

Sharonda

Acai Berry Magic

Filed under: Fit Moms, Mom Life ·

By now you have probably seen or tried an acai’ bowl. The acai’ berry trend has been quite popular for a while now but do you know why? I remember hearing about it about 5 years ago and I tried it here and there. But, recently I have found myself craving this berry hemp acai bowl from Raw Juce. Even my hubby loves it and goes out of his way to get one. I know, crazy right? This led me to wonder what’s really in this bowl and why is it so good that I am craving it like I crave chocolate? I know it is organic, full of yummy fruits and hemp but how does this bowl benefit my health? So I did a little research and here is what I found out.


Raw Juce

Berry Hemp Bowl

 

The main ingredient is the acai so I will focus there. The acai berry is known as a superfood with anti-aging and weight loss properties. It comes from the acai palm tree and is native to South America. Most studies show that acai is richer in antioxidants than cranberries, blueberries, blackberries raspberries or strawberries. Acai is also believed to help control appetite. Hello! It can increase energy and may even help with metabolic functions. Some cosmetics and beauty products even include acai’ oil for its anti-aging benefits.  There are tons of drinks and teas available just about everywhere.

 

Raw Juce

Goji Berry Bowl

 

Here are a few reasons why you should add acai’ to your diet.

*Antioxidant

*Healthy Fat

*Dietary Fiber

*Amino Acids

*Electrolytes

*Trace Minerals

*B-Vitamins

As I approach the big 40 I am definitely here for the anti-aging benefits and it tastes so good. They say it even helps with stretch marks, dry skin and crows feet. You can make your own acai bowls, smoothies, and teas  at home . Whole Foods, Publix and most local grocery stores have a great selection of prepackaged frozen acai’ blends where you just thaw and add your favorite toppings like strawberries, bananas, blueberries, granola, hemp etc. So far I have tried the Sambazon smoothie pack and it’s great. I personally prefer to get a fresh bowl loaded with all the good stuff from Raw Juce or Grown, but this does add up. Most bowls run from $10- $14 a bowl. Besides making a gorgeous Instagram photo the Acai’ bowl is actually really good for you! Cheers to good health!

 

 

DIY Recipe

XO,

Sharonda

Go With the FLOW

Filed under: Mom Life ·

I know you have heard the phrase just go with the flow? I used to hear it all of the time growing up. I knew what it meant but I didn’t really pay much attention to it. One day I was sitting by the pool just lounging and I began to notice the current in the water. The wind was blowing really hard so you could see the ripples drifting across the pool. When the wind stopped the ripples began to slow down. And then it hit me. Just go with the flow Sharonda!!!

I had to learn the hard way this year that the stress, pain and heartache comes when you resist the flow. When you try to change things or change people and they don’t change. Uggg! You begin to get frustrated that things just aren’t going the way you envisioned them. “This isn’t what I wanted”. “How did I get here?” We began to fight the flow and resist well just about everything that doesn’t look like what we planned. But what happens when we surrender and just go with the flow?

But, who wants to surrender? I sure didn’t. I am a planner. I have worked to hard to just give up or let people treat me any kind of way, right? Why should I apologize or forgive them when they were wrong? I deserved that promotion. I should have gotten that raise. I was the better friend. “Throwing in the flag is for wimps. Not for strong women who always have their shit together. I am always right, right?” Yes, these are all of the things that come up when we resist the flow. It adds tension to the tension you already have in your neck, back and shoulders. It causes belly aches. You know those those headaches that Tylenol just won’t heal. The stress of resistance can kill you if you don’t recognize it in time. But what happens if we just release it? Let it go. Realize that it is part of the plan for you. It just wasn’t meant to be. What if we just go with the flow? Yes, you deserve to express your feelings and unhappiness. Cry, scream,  kick something across the room (not the wall I know someone that kicked the wall and ended up fracturing his foot). If smoking helps reduce stress for you, you can buy native cigarettes at discountciggs. Let it all out but then let it go.

When you begin to surrender it doesn’t get easier right away. You have to surrender every day.  The more you release it the easier it gets. Day by day you realize that life is so much easier when you accept it and move on. There are products available at bodyandmind.com that can help enhance your mood and cope with life’s challenges. You can breathe easier, sleep better, smile more and spread love and light to others.  It is so much better to just GO with the flow!

XO,

Sharonda

*Pictures via Pinterest