First Founders’ Day & MLK Service Day

  

 
Hello Lovebugs! I hope everyone enjoyed their 3 day weekend (4 for those who were lucky). I have had a pretty eventful weekend myself, which has included lots of laughter and love; I just wanted to take the time out to share it with you guys, so let’s get started. 

  

  
  For starters, this past week I celebrated my first Founders’ day. It was amazing to have all of my sorority sisters with me to enjoy and relish in the joys of our illustrious organization. Being a woman of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. has been a wonderful feet to say the least. Meeting new people and learning more of our history has been an eye opener, as well as, a blessing to be a part of. To think that 108 years ago, 20 women fought to see a future of excellence for African American women across the world is spectacular.  

    

 

   The evening before our community impact day, the girls and I got together to have a game night. What a night that was! It’s always a little difficult to get everyone together due to the wide variety of schedules, but we finally got it together. It was a lot of fun playing games and catching up with all of my loves. Of course, we stayed up too late even though we had an early day to prepare for but it was completely worth it. These ladies have become such an important part of my life in such a sort period of time and I wouldn’t trade them for anything. 

   
   For MLK Day, our undergraduate (Nu Omicron), graduate (Kappa Phi Omega)  chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and other students who attend our university package food for those who are less fortunate. As a unite, we packages 30,000 meals today- how incredible is that? It was a lot of fun to be apart of a greater cause, but it was bittersweet to know that in our community alone, we needed 30,000 meals for other families. Nonetheless, we reached our goal and everyone was ecstatic to have been a part of it. 

Overall this weekend has been a productive and fun one. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the Spring semester has to offer. I have tons of article ideas coming in, so watch out for more. I have to run to class and get these assignments together; I hope you all enjoyed reading this as much as I enjoyed sharing it! 

        Talk to you later, 

             Leah La’Rae 😘

 
   

Fitness Must Haves

  
   Hey loves! This week has been busy, giving school has started back for me. Thankfully, things have been going great for my first few days of class and I hope everything is going well with you all as well. Since it’s the Spring semester, I’m pretty sure you know what’s around the corner- Spring Break. I’m not sure I know anyone who doesn’t want to be vacation ready, so I decided to share my fitness must haves with you all. You know, get a head start on my fitness regime so we can reach our goals by Spring Break- let’s get started! 

*Disclaimer: I am NOT a professional in health and fitness. These are the products that work for me. 

Woman’s Advnaced Protein

  

   I’m not really big on taking tons of supplements but given that I’m wanting to build lean muscle and burn fat, my trainer approved this protein powder to try out. I have at least 2 protein shakes a day (one in the morning and one before bed) and I usually mix it with almond milk. The flavor is great, which was a surprise to me and I love it. Flavors range from strawberry, chocolate, and Camille ice cream. 

Skinny Bunny Tea 

  
   This is a new addition to my fitness regimen and so far so good. I love this tea! It’s delicious and does a great job with helping to relieve bloating. I usually have the weight loss tea every morning and the detox tea every other night. Once I’ve finished with all of it, I’ll do a review on it. 

The Bang Belt 

  

   For whatever reason, I can’t think of wear I have put mine to take a photo and show you all but I found one on the website that I purchased it from (www.hourglassbang.com). I wear this workout belt while I workout to target my midsection. It also does a good job at properly aligning my back and core. 

The Hourglass Gang Long Corset 

  

   I know you all have probably seen these everywhere-literally. Well, I have been using mine every other day for a while now and there have been wonderful results. I usually wear it around the house for a few hours, 3 hours max, every other day. For those who don’t know about a corset or waist trainer, I will put the details on it below. This was also purchased at http://www.hourglassbang.com. 

• The hourglass long course it is a midsection makeover. This is our most popular prescription for post baby body and poochy belly’s, slimming and trimming while boosting your bust. And when it comes to your back, the HGG long corset is no slouch: FlexiBoning gently supports your spine lengthening your torso to relieve pain as it slims your waistline dramatically and immediately. 

Sweet Sweat 

  
   Now, you all have seen this before in my Beauty Haul and I said I needed to try it out before I recommend it to anyone. I’m really impressed by this stuff; it does exactly what you’d think it does and I do recommend it. I put this on my problem area(s), which is my stomach and then place my workout band across my stomach before I workout. When I say I sweat so much with this- I really mean it. It’s amazing and I think Sweet Sweat has a new member to their family.  

Nike Thea (Black) 

  
   These are my babies! Comfortable and chic; though I wear them out sometimes, these have also become my every day workout shoes. I workout at a minimum of 3 times a week, sometimes more so I definitely get good use out of them. I’ve already made up my mind to purchase a new pair to train in. I just adore these! 

   All done! I know that I’m not a professional at this, but I just wanted to share my must haves with you. Do we have any similar must haves or are there any items you’d recommend to me? Let me know in the comment section below. Also thank you for reading and I hope you all enjoyed it! 

       Talk to you later, 

               Leah La’Rae 😘

Girl Talk Tuesday

 

   Welcome back everyone ! I hope everyone is doing amazing and is all set for classes to start or are doing well during your first week of class. I am in shock that school will be back in session tomorrow. I mean, I’ve still have to pick up my book and a few other supplies! 

   Given that the Spring semester has begun, I know it’s going to be busy for everyone. I truthfully only wanted to come here to stop by and give good vibes to everyone in school, whether it be middle school or grad school. I pray that we all have amazing grades this semester and become one step closer to the finish line of the semester. 

  
   I hope everyone does well this semester, but never forget that your grades don’t define you as a person. Girls, don’t stress over the guys (and vice versa) they’ll be there. Stay focused on your dreams and aspirations. We’ve got outfits to slay, eyebrows to fleek, and red bottoms that need to be bought. Yes, I’m being serious. If you haven’t heard it yet, I’ll tell you- you’re amazing, you can do it, and I believe in you! 

   Well, I’m headed to pick up my books and search for new notebooks, pens, and other things like that. Follow me on SnapChat or Instagram @StyledByLaRae to follow along on my daily shenanigans. I’d love to connect and interact with you all! Thank you for reading and though it was short, I hope you enjoyed it. 

     Talk to you later, 

        Leah La’Rae 😘

Clothing Haul

  
Hey loves! I hope everyone had a productive work week cause now it’s time to relax for the weekend- thank goodness. Sorry for the wait, but I finally got the time to take photos of all of the items I wanted to share with you all. Plus, I had to wait on a few items to be delivered but good things come to those who wait. Oh, and let me introduce my best friend Vanessa aka my mannequin; she’s going to be my model for today. Let’s get started !

Charlotte Russe 

      

  

   For starters, I have had a pair of Cheetah print wedges but they needed to be retired once and for all. I stumbled on these a few days ago, but I didn’t purchase them right away. I waited a little while and to my satisfaction, they went on sale; I bought these for only $10- that’s insane ! I haven’t worn them out yet, but I’ve walked around the house in them for a while and they seem rather comfortable plus the heel isn’t crazy high so I can tell I will be able to wear them for a good amount of time. 

 
  
  

   I’ve come to a conclusion that I’m absolutely loving shoes that lace around my and/or anything that laces up my leg. It just makes me feel sexy and it gives the shoe a chic appeal to me. Well, these are no different. I wore these one night out and my feet didn’t hurt at any point of my night- this includes me dancing in them for a few songs. Plus, I’ve never gone wrong with a black heel so I have gladly added these into my collection. 

 

   When it come to jewelry, I tend to gravitate toward items that are gold/rose gold  and dainty. Both of these were on sale for $5, so I decided to grab them. So far, I’ve worn the necklace a few times and have received a lot of compliments on it. I still have to try the rings, but I’m sure they can be paired with a little bit of everything so I’m not worried. Nonetheless, I’m glad that I purchase these. 

    What clothes collection is complete without one plaid shirt? Well, considering mine, my collection has grown with the passing seasons but what sold me on this is the peekaboo back; I adore it ! It definitely adds a little flare to the usual plaid shirt. 

Windsor 

  

   It’s becoming apparent that the olive green/khakis color trend has hit my heart hard. It doesn’t matter where I shop, if it comes in those colors I’m more prone to purchase it. I found this store while I was out of town and it’s a new place for me, but I loved literally everything there. This dress caught my eye while I was in line and because of the color, I took a chance and bough it. It is a fitted dress (like I need anymore), but the detailing on the front is simple and pretty. Plus, it’s a good length especially since I have long legs. I’m thinking of wearing this out or I may keep it for a special occasion. 

 

   This is THE dress for me right now. Every time I look at it, I fall in love with it again. What she of me, is the back; I swoon over pretty much anything that shows off my back. For the front to be so simple and elegant, the back definitely turns it up a notch. 

H&M 

  

   Affordable jewelry, that lasts forever and is super cute- go to H&M. For the past few years, I have built a rather large collection of jewelry that I still wear today. These two in particular, I actually didn’t love right off the back but I got them because of their price. Once I paired them with a few items, I realized why I found them.  Versatility to the end! 

 

   You can never have too many everyday tops, right? That’s why I picked this one up; it’s comfy and has a nice fit to it. And the color was calling my name, so I couldn’t say no. 

Forever 21

  

   I literally picked this up because it was cold outside. I wasn’t really thinking about it becoming one of my favorite jackets. It is incredibly soft and comfortable, plus it’s cute. It’s a soft blue, so I usually pair it with a plain shirt like I have done above. I highly recommend anyone to find and purchase it to anyone who asks me about it. 

J Lux Label 

  
  

   I’ve been living under a rock. I don’t even know why I talked myself into not purchasing these. Why didn’t you guys tell me that I should have bought bodysuits ages ago? I have a love/hate relationship with ticking in my shirt and this totally fixes my issue. I like the fit and stretch that comes with them, plus they come in a vast variety of colors for any occasion. For the moment, I just lounge around in them so they aren’t uncomfortable in the slightest. 
Francesca’s 

   

  

   What is this: a clutch, a bad, a crossbody purse? How about all of the above ! The camel color and gold detailing is what drew me in, but the amount of space and the added shoulder strap that came with it is what fully sold me. I’ve been waiting on a girl’s night out to bring this baby out and see what outfit I pair with it. You guys will be the first to see how I fix this one up. 

   That’s it folks! I hope you all enjoyed this post and I’d love for you all to share which items are your favorites or the new items you all think I should check out next; comment down below or let me know via Instagram @StyledByLaRae. 

       Talk to you later, 

               Leah La’Rae 😘

 

 

The Beginning of a New Lifestyle

  

   Hey loves! We’re a week into the new year and I’m not sure if it’s this gloomy weather or what, but all I want to do is practice yoga and relax. Anyway, from looking at the title and photo this is a little bit of different for this blog but it’s one that has been on my mind for a long time. 

   For the past few days, I have considered taking my diet to a different level. Given that I normally eat fruits, veggies, chicken, and seafood I thought I was doing great; I just wanted a different challenge. Tuesday evening one of my fitness inspirations and vegetarian, Aisha Thalia (@aishathalia on Instagram) posted a series of vidoes by a young lady giving insight on the realities of the meat industry. Granted, I have tried this before but it didn’t work because of my lack of self discipline and that I kind of threw everything out and tried to jump all in; which was a really bad idea. 

    

   Aisha Thalia, Erin Janus, and a few others have managed to bring out my awareness and compassion for the animals that are brutally killed and treated for our country to live off of. I highly recommend searching for Erin on YouTube for a quick and eye opening view of the meat, chicken, and fish industry. Also, another great documentary to look into is called “Forks Over Knives” that can be found on Netflix. Other than the scientific studies and other vegan supporters, I’ve had a few health issues that have been a problem for a while now which is one reason why I stopped eating red meats. So, I’ve decided to transition into a vegan just to see if cleaning my eating can make a difference with these issues. 

   Now, as any transition you have to have some sort of plan in place to successfully complete the overall goal. Personally, I’m wanting to make this a slow change because otherwise I’m going to end up stuffing my face with a spicy chicken sandwich or something of that nature and thinking of the chicken that sacrificed its life for my dinner. Yes, I’m being a little dramatic but you get the idea. Since I don’t consume red meats anymore, my next big change will be dairy and eggs. These two are the loves of my life, food wise, so I’m going to be on the hunt for a tasty replacement for the two. 

 
   

   I’m pretty excited about this new lifestyle change, and I mean look at the photo above- doesn’t it look delicious? I’ve started looking for different recipes to try so that I can know what to purchase once I go grocery shopping. I’ll definitely keep you all updated on how things go throughout this journey; if some of you would like to join along, the more the merrier !

   And done, this wasn’t anything major. I just wanted to share it with you guys. Plus, I know y’all will hold me accountable now and especially if I have a few of you join me on this journey. If anyone who knows any good vegetarian snacks, recipes, or want to share their favorite dish- leave your comment down below and maybe we can help each other out ! 

     Talk to you later, 

           Leah La’Rae 😘

Beauty Haul

 

   Welcome back to my blog! I hope everyone has finally recovered from the holiday season; to be honest, I could use a few more days just to lounge around the house but the work doesn’t stop. So, I “accidentally” stumbled into Bath & Body Works during their semi-annual sale and found tons of new scents. I did go a little crazy there, but it was for a great deal and who’d want to miss that ? Anyway, let’s get started ! 

 
   This one is my absolute  favorite, so you know I had to purchase the entire set. Pink Lemonade Fizz smells amazing and puts you in the mindset of a summer day out. The lemon has a very simple/clean smell and the strawberry adds a hint of fun. I picked up the cooling lotion which is a regular moisture, but it has a cooling effect when applied- isn’t that neat? For my babies who love to tan, this would be a great product to use if you’ve been laying out and need to cool off a little bit. 
  

   Sadly, I couldn’t find the purfume to complete this set but it is a wonderful collection nonetheless. I have a slight obsession with mango, so when I saw these I had to grab them. This is filled with mango, pink pomelo, fresh sugarcane, amber, and a tangerine twist- doesn’t that sound devine?  The combination is very refreshing and I can’t  wait to try everything out !
 

   Where are my Georgia readers at? When I saw this, initially I thought it would smell horrible but I was happily mistaken. The name matches the smell perfectly. It really reminds me of peaches and sweet tea, but it has a few other scents such as jasmine petals and white nectarine. The only downside to this one is that the lotion was the only thing I could find, but I may find the others online. Wish me luck!
  

   I was a little standoffish when it came to these at first and I still am, to be honest. Granted, it’s a very simple scent but it’s almost too simple, almost to where there isn’t a scent at all. Now, that’s not a bad thing but I wanted a stronger scent from it. I kind of have a love/hate relationship with it because simple scents can come in handy during any situation, which is why I kept it. It makes me think of bonfires and beaches; it’s kind of a warm, soft smell that I love. 

 

   Now, this isn’t necessarily Bath & Body Works related but it is body related so I decided to include it. I follow a woman’s fitness journey on Instagram (@getbodiedbyj) and she swears by the Sweet Sweat products; she and others have had amazing results from these products. Sweet sweat is supposed to assist with problem areas, so I’ll be using this for my midsection. It has a menthol smell to it and the one I picked up, comes as a small tube for easy application. I haven’t used it yet but I will do an indepth review on it after a few asks of usage. If anyone has used this product, let me know down below! 

   That’s it! Simple and quick, right ? I hope you all enjoyed this beauty haul. I think I’ve gotten over my semiannual sale bug, I will move on to another store lol. If you all want me share my fitness routine or the products I use, let me know down below. Also, I do have a beauty favorites post coming up so be on the look out for that. Thank you for reading ! 

     Talk to you later, 

          Leah La’Rae 😘

Single Lady Saturday

   
    Welcome back and Happy New Year loves! I hope that everyone had a great time bringing in the new year because I know I did. Being that this is my first entry back, I really just wanted and talk to you guys. No haul, no interview, just a little chit chat. Let’s get started! 
   So, have you ever found yourself helping a friend out with a certain relationship situation that you’ve been in? That’s been me this past week. Ladies, I know we love him and we’ve put a lot into the relationship but sometimes I have to wonder if we do that because we’ve lost that confidence in ourselves to say no every now and again. We’re so focused in attempting to make the relationship work that we camouflage all of the negativity dwelling between two people. 

   
 
   I found this today as I was getting ready for work and it really hit home for me. Think about it.. Your relationship with yourself, whether it’s full of love and confidence or full of negativity and sorrow- that’s what sets the tone for everything else. I know everyone has heard, “misery loves company”, right ? So, if two people come together in misery and fall in love while in their misery, are they happy or in turmoil? Better question, if you’re miserable in the relationship why do you stay? Is it because you have someone to be miserable with you or are you afraid of being alone once the relationship ends? Let me put a disclaimer: this doesn’t just go for the ladies- fellas do it to. As I look around at what I’ve been through, I understand how loving a person beyond measure can put you in a space where you can’t help but want to work things out. I’ve been that girl that bends over backwards because he’s upset at me, but in all honesty I knew I wasn’t happy. I just didn’t think I could do any better than the guy I was with then. 

   It takes a certain kind of strength and courage to separate yourself from the one person whom you thought would be there for the rest of your life. It takes to to heal and build from that, but there is always a light at the end of the tunnel- I promise. And no, I am in no way telling you to hop up and break up with someone just because you’re unhappy now- that’s a different situation. I’m speaking on those who have gone through the cycle of trying to keep the relationship going, but for whatever petty reason something interrupts that (notice that I said petty reason). Like I said, I know we love him and he has his amazing moments but at some point you reach your breaking point. Sometimes you just can’t bend over backwards to see him smile or stop whatever you’re doing because he’s got a petty issue with something that shouldn’t be argued about or allowing him to down talk you just so the argument will cease. Some things just have to change at some point and sometimes the change has to begin with you.

    Learning and understanding what you’re dealing with begins with how you view yourself. So, if he’s arguing and annoying you with petty situations or even as small as attempting to stop you from going out with your friends – you stay because you feel that’s what you deserve. You stay because you see all of the qualities in him in yourself. Once you change those negative aspects of yourself and understand you deserve so much from him and for yourself, things will change. Ladies, if you think you deserve more- Change your view of self and your surroundings, then get the King you feel will be better. Fellas, if she’s not cutting it for you- change your view of self and cut her off, adjust your environment and find the Queen you deserve. 

   I’m done, I could ramble on about this topic but I don’t want this to drag on. Like I said before, I just wanted to share with you all something that’s been on my mind; just needed a little vent session about this. Tell me your opinion on this topic below and let’s learn from each other. Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it. 

         Talk to you later, 

                 Leah La’Rae 😘