A Plus Size Girl's Guide to Athletic Wear

Hey Girl!!!

I have the crazy idea that finding cute workout clothing will encourage me to work out. Maybe it will, maybe it won’t. Worst case scenario; I have just upgrade my athletic wear.

I’m on a mission to find active wear that not only makes me feel good but is comfortable to wear. This is what I found available in my size and at a decent price point.

Target – All In Motion

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I actually never thought to shop Target for active wear but in my poll on Instagram, you all told me to check them out. So I went with the All In Motion brand. I found an outfit that and paid $50 for all 3 pieces. This brands tagline is “Made for every move, priced for every day.” The price is relatively decent when considering the cost of most athletic wear.

Bra: XL

This bra fits very nicely. I’m a size 40 C, not a lot of boobs but I’m a little wide so I like to feel comfortable. I wasn’t sure if I should have went with the XXL but I’m happy I got the XL due to the sizing chart. Be sure to always check there; it typically won’t steer you wrong and read the reviews.

Leggings: XL

These fit like a true XL. I wanted enough room to pull them up on my stomach a little (that’s where I carry most of my weight). They are easy to pull on and feel really good when I move.

Top: XL

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I really like this top. It’s the perfect addition to this outfit especially since I don’t plan on wearing an additional bra. This top is a muscle top and

Old Navy

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Bra: 1X

This bra fits so well and the color complements my skin beautifully! My kids loved this one on me; they said it hides all of my mommy rolls.

Leggings: 1X

These are nice! I didn’t feel exposed while bending over which is a major plus and the way the legging curve to my body make me feel hot! But after a lot of moving around and getting sweaty I did notice a little slippage.

Victoria Secret

VS is not particularly plus size friendly but I figured it would be worth including them in the lineup since they do carry a few workout pieces. I’ve tried their knockout leggings before and love them. I’ve had them for a few years. I believe they are slowing down on their sports line because not much is available.

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Bra: XL

At first I wasn’t feeling this bra but covers my side rolls very nicely it just exposes a lot of back. It’s very smoothing and I see it being put to good use.

Leggings: 14

Now I was shocked by these leggings. Since I have been a huge fan of their Knockout Leggings I didn’t know what I was going to get. These are very similar but have pockets. I actually think I prefer them.

Walmart – Avia

Top: XL (16/18)

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The top fits great and comes in a few other colors. When shopping for tops make sure you go a size up. You want to have room to breathe.

Leggings: L (12/14)

These fit me like a glove and they come up a little and go over my belly.

Fabletics

Mila High Waisted Leggings – XL

Bella High Impact Bra – XL

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Trinity High Waisted Leggings – XL

Overall, I think all of these companies offer a great selection. The more companies see that plus size women do workout and that we want options; I believe they will make it for us. So, I’m sure you’re wondering who I think came out on top.

Price point - Walmart gets my vote, I spent under $25 for an entire outfit and you can’t beat that.

Style - Fablectics is hands down the winner. They offer comfort, compression and style. I love that offer plus sizes as well and they’ve designed certain styles to be more flattering for the plus size body!

Let me know what your favorite is!

Baecation – Myrtle Beach, SC

Disclaimer: The world is hurting right now due to COVID-19 and I hope this post allows you to smile if only for a moment and gives you something to think about when everything calms down.

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It’s been a very LONG time since Cleveland and I have had the chance to getaway. We love it but with managing 7 kids that’s nearly impossible. We shared a hearty laugh the other day when we realized we have not had a date night in over a year! YIKES! So, I was extremely excited about this hosted stay that we were offered.

We stayed with You Are Where I Go rentals at their Myrtle Beach, SC location and loved it. It’s perfect for a quick getaway if you’re local or needing a place to stay when you head to the beach. We have not been to Myrtle Beach in years so this was definitely a treat. Sometimes we forget that our own state has these beautiful hidden treasures!

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Myrtle Beach, SC is roughly 2.5 hours from Columbia, SC and one of our most known beaches. You can swim, shop, and tour some really neat places. This area seems to be most popular during the summer; great tourist spot.

The cottage is beautifully decorated with a warm and cozy feel. It’s perfect when you want the amenities of home. The house has a very open layout; beautiful outside deck and open french style doors. Two bedrooms one queen size bed and the other bunkbeds; perfect for bringing kids. They also have beach umbrellas for your use. This location does have a stove top and refrigerator so if you’re going to stay for a few days then you can cook. This location is also pet friendly which is perfect for us because we needed to bring the dog, Jax! The space can accommodate 5 but we opted to leave the kiddos at home. The beach is within walking distance which is perfect, no need to move your car, yay!

When I’m going away for an extended stay I like to stay in a house verses a hotel so that I can enjoy the comforts of home and my children get run around without having to worry about disrupting other guests.

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If you’re not in the mood to cook, there are tons of options around. We wanted to check out the Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament, since neither of us have been and it something fun to do to get out of the house. Unfortunately, we decided to skip this option due to the number of people that fit in their stadium. Cleve loves seafood and there are a lot of seafood buffets around but I’m not a huge fan of them, so I searched and searched and we ended up at the Lobster House, the food was great. You get large portions for a fairly decent price. It is an old place and not super fancy so if that’s what you’re looking for then skip it but if you don’t mind go get some great seafood.

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So, if you’re ever in town be sure to check with You Are Where I Go for your lodging needs. It was a pleasure working with this company.

Happy Birthday To Me | This is 29

If you’ve been around for a while then you know, my birthday is my JAM! I get so excited for it and I pre-game all January and February. I even spoil myself a little (actually a lot).

This year is the last year of my 20’s and while I’m slightly in my feelings; I’m happy to be alive and thriving.

So here’s to being bold and fearless.

I did a big chop in December.

I purchased a Fitbit to help me remain accountable and restart my weight loss journey.

I joined CSC Mommy Blogger Tribe.

I’ve stopped doing things that no longer fill me up.

I’m learning to say “no” and mean it.

I’m discovering myself for the very first and I’m loving it!

They say age will make you reevaluate your entire life and honey; they are right! I can no longer focus on the fact that 30 is seriously creeping up on me but I can enjoy being right where I am. I can focus on my goals and remain in competition with myself. The goal is to grow and be an inspiration. If I can do that, I know that I am answering my calling.

My prayer for 29 is that I continue to test limits and reach for the stars. I want to become hungry for the life I’ve always dreamed of. May I be an inspiration to other women who have yet to walk in my shoes…  

This is 29 🖤

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MUA: TamGee Artistry

Stylist: Juice V

Hair: House of Diata

Top: Ashley Stewart (NLA), Similar , Similar 2

Pants: Express

Shoes: DSW

Sunglasses: Amazon

Beer & Brunch | Steel Hands Brewing, Cayce, SC

Maddy Eccles Photo

Maddy Eccles Photo

I always look forward to my monthly gatherings with the CSC Mommy Blogger Tribe! This time we headed to Steel Hands Brewing in Cayce, SC and boy were we in for a treat. I love a good brew and I’m always open to trying new things.

Maddy Eccles Photo

Maddy Eccles Photo

All of the ladies were given a flight of beer to taste. In my line up I enjoyed the Tropical IPA, Raspberry Lemonade, Lime Golden Ale and Punch Clock Pilsner beers. My favorite was the Tropical IPA and it’s actually their best seller. If you’re into light beers this one is the perfect option. The Raspberry Lemonade actually has real raspberry puree in it!

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We even got to enjoy a tour of the brewery – it was awesome! I didn’t realize how much goes into making beer but they pride themselves on having quality beer and enjoying getting the community involved. They partner with a few other local businesses to continue giving back an enriching the lives around them.

Steel Hands Brewing broke ground March 1st, 2018 and opened their doors December 1st, 2018 in Cayce, SC. They have a large indoor and outdoor seating area; perfect for whatever your mood is. The area is the perfect spot to hang out with family and friends. I know you’re probably thinking beer and kids? No thanks! I did as well but their menu offers some kid friendly options and the outdoor space is large enough for them to enjoy playing. Dogs are welcome too! They are open Thursday – Sunday (hours vary). So if you’re ever looking for a good time or needing to chill out be sure to check this place out.

 

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