carrotsncake on LTK

These are a few of my favorite things - the beach, iced coffee, and this bathing suit from @target, which cost just $24!! 😎☕️👙 http://liketk.it/2vUgW #liketkit @liketoknow.it

These are a few of my favorite things - the beach, iced coffee, and this bathing suit from @target, which cost just $24!! 😎☕️👙 http://liketk.it/2vUgW liketkit @liketoknow.it

Share:

Shop this post

Paid links

Women's Summer Lightly Lined Crochet High Neck Bikini Top - Shade & Shore Army Green 34B | Target

During this pandemic (though it’s always been a thing), my attention has been drawn to all the contradicting messages on social media regarding health and body image. It feels like every time I scroll through my feed, I’m hit with something different... ⁠⠀
⠀⁠⠀
"Don't gain the Quarantine 15!" ⁠⠀
⠀⁠⠀
“Love yourself the way you are.”⠀⁠⠀
⁠⠀
"Lose the last 10 pounds with intermittent fasting." ⠀⁠⠀
⠀⁠⠀
And on and on and on... my head hurts just thinking about it. ⠀⁠⠀
⠀⁠⠀
Maybe you're an athlete, and you're training and eating to perform a certain way. ⁠⠀
⁠⠀
Or maybe you’re happy with your body and just enjoying your life. ⁠⠀
⁠⠀
You’re doing you, but it doesn’t seem to matter because according to social media, either lifestyle is wrong. ⁠⠀
⁠⠀
There is no right way - you’re either completely devoted to your appearance or you don’t care at all. What happened to the middle ground? Does it even exist?⠀⁠⠀
⠀⁠⠀
Where do I stand? I enjoy working out and being fit and have no shame in taking pride in my physique. But that doesn’t mean I don’t know where my priorities lie - my family and overall health and happiness, which includes wine, donuts, and All Dressed potato chips will ALWAYS come before maintaining a certain body fat percentage!⠀⁠⠀
⠀⁠⠀
What do you think? Is there some sort of middle ground?⠀⁠⠀
⁠⠀
#macrocoach #macroish #allornonemindset #trackingmacros #macrotracking #balancedeating #macrodiet #womenwholift #girlswholift #fitmoms #dietculture http://liketk.it/2OPnq #liketkit @liketoknow.it

Pug high-5 for feeling better!

Murphy is on the med (hooray), but Quinn woke up with a swollen eye this morning. The poor kid got bit by a mosquito over the weekend, and the spot on his forehead swelled up like crazy. Thankfully, his doctor said it was just a localized reaction and recommended Claritin to help with the swelling. Quinn is already starting to feel better, but, jeez Louise, the Hauperts can’t get a break lately! 😩

Related: I paid $75 for a new stronger inhaler this morning. Hopefully, it’ll get rid of my never-ending cough. 🥴

http://liketk.it/2FosY #liketkit @liketoknow.it #monday #pughigh5 #mondaymoof

http://liketk.it/2FfGx #liketkit @liketoknow.it

“Don’t miss out on 95% of your life to weigh 5% less!" ⠀
⠀
We’re off to Point St. Lucie, Florida tomorrow for a family vacation. A few years ago, I would have felt anxious about going overboard on indulgences, but I’ve learned how to balanced my choices with the help of macros. I won’t be tracking on vaca because this way of eating has become so ingrained and such a part of my lifestyle, I don’t need to. I know how to balance my carrots with my cake! 😉 And even if I do go a little overboard - I won’t sweat it. The memories are worth the extra calories! ⠀

What do you think? How do you handle vacation? Do you still eat mostly healthy or do you tend to go all out? What’s your biggest challenge?
.
.
.
.
.
#vacation #healthyeating #macrocoach #nutritioncoach #clubmed #twisttank #knottank #momlife #summer #summerfashion #vacationmode #florida #sandpiperbay #balancedeating #macrobalanced #macrofriendly

http://liketk.it/2Dc4n #liketkit @liketoknow.it ⠀

True or false: It’s cool to wear the hat of the pet you alone? If so, what breed/pet would be on your hat?
http://liketk.it/2D9Zo #liketkit @liketoknow.it
.
.
.
.
#puglove #puglover #pughat #pets #momlife #beachlife #supercool #pugsofinstagram

“Don’t miss out on 95% of your life to weigh 5% less!" ⠀
⠀
My July 4th holiday was so much fun! Part of it included eating sprinkle ice cream from @hornstrafarms and enjoying boozy beverages while hanging out in the sand with friends - and I don’t feel bad about any of it at all.
⠀
A few years ago, I would have finished off a holiday weekend feeling blah about going overboard on indulgences, but since I’ve learned to track macros and balance my choices, I can have all of the fun and none of the yucky feelings! And even if I do feel like I went a little overboard - I don’t sweat it. The memories are worth the extra calories! ⠀

How was your July 4th? What was the best thing you ate and drank?

http://liketk.it/2D7bm #liketkit @liketoknow.it ⠀

I’ll be honest - as much as I would love to be able to start a meditation practice in the traditional sense, it's just not for me. Instead, I seek my reflective moments through super sweaty workouts, especially running. ⠀

My journey navigating an autoimmune disorder as well as a few injuries meant that for periods of time, the ability to run was taken away from me. What I missed more than anything was the way those first few steps of every run made me feel - totally alive and in the moment. Running gave me a chance to completely disconnect so I could focus on my breath, my feet hitting the ground, and nature surrounding me. It helped to keep my anxiety in check by forcing me out of my own head - and in those moments when I couldn’t run, I missed it so much.⠀
⠀
I don’t take a single run for granted anymore, and it’s made me more GRATEFUL than ever - grateful for my health, my family and friends, and the ability to do what I love everyday. I literally say “thank you” every time I slip my running shoes on because there was a time when doing so felt like a far off luxury. I’ve heard it time and again, and it still rings true - even if it's a little cheesy: We may run with our legs, but it starts with our hearts.⠀

If you don’t meditate, what’s your form of “meditation”?
http://liketk.it/2xjsA #liketkit @liketoknow.it

Quinn checked his "pounds" on the scale last night, and he's up to 35 (!!), which is more than the kettlebell weight I typically use at CrossFit! I can't believe that my "baby" is getting so big - I hope that I can still pick him up for a few more years. Anyone else still carrying around their big babies? Please tell me I'm not the only mom who loves carrying my not-so-small baby! ⠀
⠀
A quick note about my @brooksrunning hoodie that I'm TOTALLY loving right now. It’s definitely a go-to right now! It's soft and cozy, and it comes in different colors - some of which (white and pink) are on sale right now. It also comes in a 1/2 Zip option, which is super cute too. And I’m wearing my favorite @TOMS sneakers in the photo below – lovvvvve them! Details via the link below!

http://liketk.it/2xfiu #liketkit @liketoknow.it

I have to say I am majorly proud of myself for getting dressed up for our day date to @abbyparkmilton last month… and by dressed up I mean anything other then leggings, sneakers, and a sweaty workout tank! I'm still keeping it relaxed in these white shorts and cute button down because I’m all about dressy-casual. My #bloghusband tried to get a good photo to capture this rare moment, but of course I forgot my sunglasses and couldn’t help squinting. Oh well! #InstagramvsReality, right?
http://liketk.it/2wTIH #liketkit @liketoknow.it
⠀

It’s no secret that I’m not the best at dressing myself - that’s why Mal made me buy this super soft top from @Athleta because it's so versatile. Plus, he just knows what looks good on me, and I just trust he won't steer me wrong! ⠀
⠀
I can easily dress up this top with a cute necklace (I actually wore it with a skirt for our anniversary dinner) or down with leggings and flips (aka my everyday uniform). Easy, affordable, and stylish! https://rstyle.me/~aye3i⠀
⠀
Who has better fashion sense - you or your partner? ⠀
⠀
http://liketk.it/2wBDh #liketkit @liketoknow.it

When it’s one billion degrees outside, but the AC blasting inside has you literally chilling... 😬
⠀
I LOVE this Trophy Top from @Athleta - the mesh detail on the back adds ventilation while the long sleeves keep the goosebumps at bay. Summer dressing conundrum solved!⠀

http://liketk.it/2wBja #liketkit @liketoknow.it

I’m maximizing my travel style and suitcase space by wearing the new Glycerin 16 on my adventures today. Aren’t they cute? I’m also maximizing my happiness with 4 shots of decaf espresso over ice with a splash of half & half. It’s so rich and creamy and much-needed this morning! Anyone else wear their sneakers when they travel? Can we agree coffee is a priority for early-morning flights? ☕️ Sneaker details #liketkit @liketoknow.it http://liketk.it/2wl2a

Is it possible to have TOO many stripes in one outfit? I'm pretty sure I nailed the nautical look yesterday on Nantucket! Stripes on stripes on stripes! ⠀
⠀
Yesterday, I celebrated the first day of summer with my very first trip to Nantucket. (I've lived in Massachusetts my whole life, and I've never been!) I loved abdsolutely everything about my experience on island with @shopnantucket @sweetcarolinej @twentysomethingplus @the_essentialist_! Take me back already! #partner #stripes #nantucket #shopnantucket #ack #islandlife #stripelover #notafashionblogger #fashion http://liketk.it/2wfnZ #liketkit @liketoknow.it

Confession: I'm super lazy when it comes to getting dressed. 🤷🏻‍♀️ I'm all about ease and comfort, which is why I am LOVING these pull-on/elastic waist skinny jeans. They're insanely comfy (just slip them on like leggings), but they're legit skinny jeans at the same time, so you don’t look like a total slob. 🤣 They actually remind me a lot of maternity jeans without the front button and zipper! http://liketk.it/2w2Mh #liketkit @liketoknow.it

This Sole Society Canvas Overnight Bag is super cute and affordable - who doesn't love a deal! At only $75, this canvas bag could be dressed up or down to fit the occasion. My favorite feature is the separatebottom compartment designed to hold shoes you might not want to be mixed in with your clothes. It's practical yet still stylish - my kind of accessory! This bag also comes in black and olive in addition to this natural color.⠀
⠀
More bag favorites: https://carrotsncake.com/2018/05/memorial-day-weekend-summer-getaway-bags.html

http://liketk.it/2vPcn #liketkit @liketoknow.it

An oldie, but goodie pair of shorts! I probably own 3 or 4 pairs of these shorts now, and they're awesome for all kinds of workouts. They're lightweight and semi-fitted, so they really move with you, especially over your thighs for movements like air squats, Cleans, Wallballs, etc.If you're a fan of a longer short, Brooks also makes a 5" option! #runhappy @brooksrunning @zappos #runningshorts
⠀
Shorts That Don't Suck https://carrotsncake.com/2018/05/shorts-dont-suck.html #liketkit http://liketk.it/2vICn @liketoknow.it

Here's a little preview from my "shorts that don't suck" blog post! I absolutely love these rolled denim boyfriend shorts (details via link below or follow me on @liketoknow.it), and they're priced right at just $58! Yesterday's photo shoot actually got rained out partway through, so @murphnmal and I are finishing up today. I can't wait to share the rest of my favorites! #shorts #muscularlegs #crossfitmom http://liketk.it/2vD1h #liketkit

Today’s the day! I’m finally photographing the winners for my “Shorts that Don't Suck” blog post! You ladies with muscular legs will especially appreciate it! These shorts from @landsend are comfortable, flattering, and stylish (aka not frumpy). Keep a look out for the blog post next week! http://liketk.it/2vCkF #liketkit @liketoknow.it

It's been so fun sharing my favorite "fashion" finds over these past few weeks. I'm definitely NOT a fashionista (far from it), but I enjoy sharing what I love with others, so here's a round-up of my top favs for spring and cool summer nights! #spring #fashion #springfashion http://liketk.it/2vxKO #liketkit @liketoknow.it

Chilly spring mornings and cool summer nights call for this cozy mock neck sweater! I love its chunkiness and half zip detail. And, please note, my cuff shorts that "don't suck." My mission in the coming weeks is to bring you shorts that are comfortable, flattering, and not frumpy, especially for the ladies with muscular legs. These ones from @landsend make the list! ⠀ http://liketk.it/2vx6o #liketkit @liketoknow.it

⠀

I saw this shark sweater at J.Crew this afternoon. I was so close to buying it, but I didn’t in the end. But now I am having second thoughts about it. Do I go back and buy it? Am I too old to wear sharks on my clothing or is it kind of cool? http://liketk.it/2vw1p #liketkit @liketoknow.it #jcrew #sharks #sharklover #sharkfashion

Spring has really, truly sprung! And it's FINALLY time to break out my @Sperry Seaside sneakers. I love these babies in a major way! Right now, they're on sale for just $52! #SperryStyle ⠀
https://rstyle.me/n/c3pw8tb5itf http://liketk.it/2vufq #liketkit @liketoknow.it

How amazing is the back of this sweatshirt?! Pretty, right? It also comes in navy and white. I’m obsessed. ❤️❤️❤️ http://liketk.it/2vqN9 #liketkit @liketoknow.it

Tuesday summed up in 3 words: Orangetheory, Shrimp Tacos + Conjunctivitis! 👟🌮😬 New blog post on CNC!
.
.
https://carrotsncake.com/2018/04/orangetheory-shrimp-tacos-conjunctivitis.html
.
.
http://liketk.it/2vpXt #liketkit @liketoknow.it #tuesday @jcrew #jcrew #jcrewsale #carrotsncake

Spring is right around the corner. Right? RIGHT?!? 😬 I sure hope so, but, in the meantime, I'm staying warm and cozy with this lace-up hoodie, which is perfect for lounging at home or running errands. And, if the warm weather even gets here, it’s a must-have for cool nights at the beach (as well as the sunglasses and tote)! 😎 http://liketk.it/2vp7G #liketkit @liketoknow.it #spring #summer #hoodie

I love @murphnmal and my Thursday happy hours! ❤️ We typically grab drinks and apps (almost always the cheese plate) @scarletoaktavern before we pick up Quinn from school. Just the thought of them get me through the week! 😎 http://liketk.it/2vbmB #liketkit @liketoknow.it #happyhour #scarletoaktavern #daydate

On the blog: Our first visit to @BurkesAlewerks Brewery & Taproom, which just opened in Hanover! http://liketk.it/2v9GN #liketkit @liketoknow.it

I receive SO MANY questions about these tights because, well, I'm short and they actually fit right, and other short people want to know where they come from! (Just about all of my other leggings are capris because the full length ones are always too long for me.) These Nike Sculpt Lux Women’s Training Tights come in short sizes and feature sweat-wicking, compressive fabric to help you feel dry, comfortable, and supported. Basically, they’re cute and functional. Big fan! Details via http://liketk.it/2v90j #liketkit @liketoknow.it