Confessional Thursday {#1}

There is something cathartic about just spilling your random thoughts. So today I am linking up with Jessica from The Newly for Confessional Thursday.

I Confess...

I had to look up the word cathartic...at first I typed lethargic, and I knew that wasn't the word I was looking for. Don't mind that I have an English degree.

I have decided that I am a people pleaser/peace maker. I have also decided that it is both my best and worst quality. I think an entire blog post will be coming about that.

I am finally biting the bullet and buying some quinoa tonight to try. I think I will try this recipe. Best part is that it is 21 day fix approved.

I love playing Monopoly at Safeway. I have gone out of my way to shop there recently because I want to get more of the game pieces.

I have been watching Lifetime's Mother/Daughter Experiment. It is outrageous and ridiculous, and I can't help but watch it.

I love rereading series. I have a couple of recommendations that I will be posting in the next few days.

I just don't understand these pom pom shoes that are becoming popular. They remind me of a little kids art project.

I love to try foundations. I can't seem to go into a sephora or ultra without finding a new foundation to try. But for the first time ever, I have purchased the same foundation twice in a row. The Maybelline Fit Me! Dewy + Smooth Foundation is only $5.99, and it is turning out to be my favorite.

I got my niece-to-be (due in just 1 month!!!) this swimsuit from target. So cute. She is going to Hawaii in August for a wedding, and she will look adorable in it, I'm sure!

Well, that's all I got. See you tomorrow, folks :)

Taking Back My Health

Today I am linking up with Jessi from Jessi's Design for "What's Hap-pinning Wednesdays." I kind of sat for a few minutes trying to think what was new and worthwhile to share, and I realized that I am excited to start my 2nd round of 21 Day Fix by Beachbody on Thursday!!

I did the 21 day fix back in January, and while I didn't follow the program perfectly, I still saw some great results! I know I lost weight and inches; I just wish I would have measured so I know my progress. This time around I am doing all my measurements so I can see my success.

The basics of the program are this:

• 30 minute workouts that can be done at home with minimal equipment (hand weights and a yoga mat)
• Food containers that help you figure out what to eat and how much of it
• A serving of Shakeology each day!
• An easy to follow meal plan with tons of recipes
• Accountability and support through an online Facebook group

I love how easy it is to do without keeping track of calories or macros. The workouts are fun, and they only last 30 minutes!! No excuses not to get them done!

However, the main reason I am posting about this and taking on this 21 day journey is to create a new lifestyle for myself. I realized as I sit down tonight that my eating today consisted of a bag of cheetos, probably over a liter of dr. pepper, a small container of chow mien, and a hersheys bar. Seriously. I can't keep living this way, and I know my body does not run the way it should!

I am looking to create a lifestyle change and not just a quick diet. I want to find a way to not only lose weight but also feel comfortable in my own skin. It's time for me to take back my health!

If you are interested in joining me, feel free to send me an email at whit.mclaughlin@gmail.com. I would love to discuss what Beachbody program might work best for you!

Friday Favorites #2

I am back for another Friday Favorites! I love the chance to look back on the week and remember all the little things that made it great. I am linking up with Erika from A Little Bit of Everything.

Favorite Post
I have been following The Daily Tay for awhile now. She is hilarious, and I absolutely loved this post she did on Thursday! She loves her dog, Harlow, just as much as I love my two dogs, Bella & Cori, so I totally find this post relatable! Go check her out….and just for fun, here is a pic of my two dogs :)

Favorite Blog

I just found Caitlin's blog, Cait's Cozy Corner, the other day, but I already love it! She is starting up a book club next month, and I can't wait to join. Make sure to show her some love and tell her I sent you!

Favorite Quote

My younger sister, Ashton, is full of hilarious quotes. I try and document them as much as possible because she really comes up with some bizarre things. We were looking back at my Facebook posts the other day, and I realized most of them are just quoting here. I thought I would share some of the funny ones below!

Favorite Activity

Packing!! I know that sounds strange, but I am so beyond excited to move into my 1st home this weekend! I have been slowly packing things over the last few months, but I have had to really kick it into gear in order to get everything ready to go. I have already taken a few trips to Goodwill {I am amazed at how much junk I have accumulated over the last few years!} 

Favorite New Puppy

My mom got a German Shepard puppy the day before Christmas! Winston Charles is going to be a great companion for her when I move out. He is quite possibly the fluffiest and cutest puppy I have met.

Favorite Workout

I was doing the 21 Day Fix Piyo workout the other day, and I turned around to this view. Cori, the black lab, is attempting her own version of Child's Pose while my two sisters are laying around in the background. At one point Jackson was participating, but when we looked back at him he was sitting against the wall on his phone. Guess they don't find find Piyo as exciting as me :)

Well those are my favorites for this Friday. Tell me below, what are your favorites from the week?

Thinking Out Loud #1

Today I am linking up with Amanda from the Running with Spoons blog. I am also linking up with Annie from Home of Malones and Natalie from East Coast Chic. They both have fun link-ups on Thursdays that are all about sharing what is on your mind! I love the idea of just sharing all the random things that run around in my head…believe me there is a lot!!




1. I read this story in my local newspaper this week, and I just about lost it! This little girl was awarded a Make-A-Wish foundation wish, and she chose to go to an orphanage in India! How cool is that?!?! In the midst of battling cancer, this little girl made the decision to bless others rather than focus on herself. I strive to be more like her :)

2. In just a few short weeks, I am headed on my first cruise with my family! I am so excited to sit out in the sun especially after the cold front that has hit our little town the last few days. I have so much to do before we go….get a new swimsuit, buy sunscreen, pull out all my summer clothes, workout :)

3. I am so excited for Fuller House on Nextflix. Full House was one of my favorite shows growing up, and once in awhile I will catch it playing on Nickelodeon! I can't wait to see the story line and to have all the old cast members pop in!

If you are a fan of Full House, you have to check out the Fuller House Instagram! 

4. Speaking of remakes, I was really disappointed in the remake of Boy Meets World…now called Girl Meets World. It follows Cory and Topanga's daughter Riley and her best friend. My little sister was watching it the other day so I watched a couple of episodes with her. While there were lots of appearances by old cast members (Shawn Hunter, Mr. Feeney, Minkus), it just wasn't the same as the old show! I loved Boy Meets World back in the day.

5. I need to get my butt in gear! I have been slacking on my workouts lately. I have been working through the 21 Day Fix, and I love the workouts. They are only 30 minutes long, and I can do them in my living room. However, I have just been plain lazy! Well, I am also trying to pack up to move this weekend so that always throws a wrench into any plans!

6. Speaking of packing, I AM MOVING INTO MY NEW HOME THIS WEEKEND!!! I am just a little excited if you can't tell. I feel bad for my family and co-workers because that is honestly all I have talked about the last few days :) I can't wait to share pictures when it is all decorated!

I think that is all for this lovely {freezing} Thursday!!

21 Day Fix

Welcome 2016!!! I am so excited to see what you have to bring. I have a feeling this is going to be the best year yet!!

This new year brings me a lot of firsts. I will become a first time homebuyer in just a few weeks!! Check back tomorrow for details on my new home :)

This will will also bring my first niece who is due in April.

It also brings me my first cruise!! My family and I are heading to the Caribbean in February for a seven day excursion.

With that being said, I realized that in order to fully enjoy my cruise, I would like to be in better shape (and lose a few pounds too if I am being honest). Now, I have tried every program out there, and I haven't been successful. I am all gung-ho for the first few days, but then I start to fizzle out. Mostly because I love Dr. Pepper…and chips.

Just a few weeks ago, I actually started a new program. I was skeptical at first, but I really truly love it! It is the Beachbody 21 Day Fix. This is a workout and nutrition program that is specific to 21 days, but it can be used on a daily basis!

What I love about the 21 Day Fix:
1. It is an old-fashion exercise and nutrition program. No pills to take or crazy concotions to drink. There is a daily shake called Shakeology, and it is hands down the best shake I have ever taken!

2. It gives you practical advice, tips, and meal plan. I hate those programs where you have to eat these crazy meals. The 21 Day Fix Meal Plan is simply real, clean food.

3. The meal plan comes with food containers so it is teaches you portion control. You get to eat pretty much everything but just within reason. The plan includes containers for proteins, fruits, veggies, carbs, nuts and dressings, and cheese.

4. There are a million recipes out there that taste delicious! You could serve it to your whole family, and I think everyone would love it even if they aren't doing the program.

5. The workout program is fun! There are 7 different workouts, and they only last 30 minutes. I can do them from the comfort of my own home (even in my PJs if I want!).

6. I have never gone hungry on this program!! I feel like I am eating a ton, but it is just all clean, healthy foods!


I really find myself being successful on this program. I will definitely be doing some updates on this program, but I would love to chat with you if you are interested in the program.

Tell me below… What is your favorite workout program?
Would you rather workout at home or in a gym?
Do you have any New Year's Resolutions?