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#WNJBeauty | 11 Ways to Pamper Yourself at Home + a Giveaway

July 28, 2016 by Whitney 16 Comments

Taking a vacation sounds amazing, doesn’t it?! Feeling the sand between your toes, lounging poolside and luxuriating for hours at the spa sounds simply divine. But the truth is sometimes, for whatever reason, we just can’t slip away from “real life” to enjoy an actual vacation. In that case, pull out your robe and slippers and treat yourself! Here are 11 simple ways to pamper yourself at home.

* See Also: 7 Signs You Need a Vacation

1. Pop a bag of popcorn and enjoy a marathon of your favorite TV show.

2. Create a relaxing playlist and listen to it throughout the day.

3. Read a good book or catch up on your magazine reading.

4. Light some candles and take a warm shower or bath.

5. Wear your PJ’s or sexy lingerie around the house.

6. Have a glass of wine or a warm cup of green tea.

11 simple ways to pamper yourself at home. #wnjinspired #selfcare

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7. Binge watch your favorite movies on Netflix.

8. Give yourself a face/body/hair treatment.

9. Put on a sleep mask and take a long nap.

10. Give yourself a manicure and pedicure.

11. Schedule an in-house massage.

To help get you get you ready for your very own at-home pampering session, I’m giving away a few of my favorite at-home pampering products! I love a good face mask and I use an exfoliating salt scrub at least once a week. Check out the giveaway instructions below!

* This giveaway is open to those who live in the United States.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

So tell me, what do you do to pamper yourself at home? Let me know!

I often share beauty/pampering products on Snapchat so if you’re following, I’m sure you’ve seen one of more of these giveaway items before. Thanks for reading and don’t forget to enter for your chance to win. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Lifestyle | 7 Signs You Need a Vacation

July 26, 2016 by Whitney 5 Comments

Sooo, where have I been? Let’s just say I had to take a mini mental vacation. I’ve had an extremely active summer so far and while it’s been enjoyable, both mentally and physically it’s been A LOT. So I pressed pause for a bit to get myself back on track. I’ve decided to stop feeling bad for taking little breaks here and there. If I need one, I’m going to take it…period.

With my birthday coming up (August 11th) I’m really looking forward to a much needed weekend getaway. So what are some signs that you too might need a vacation? Well, read ahead to find out the 7 signs you need a vacation.

* See Also: Self-Care & Blogging

1. You’re not sleeping well at night. | If you find yourself tossing and turning throughout the night, it may be time for a vacation. Being stressed makes it harder to fall asleep, even if you’re exhausted. Not sleeping well can also lead to feeling sluggish throughout the day and let’s be honest, that’s not a good feeling.

2. Everything irritates you. | When I’m stressed, little things start to bother me. These things should really be a non-factor, but when your mind is in overdrive you tend to see everything as a big issue. You may find yourself snapping at your loved ones or even yelling at the driver next to you in traffic. These are definite signs that you need a vacation!

7 signs you need a vacation. #selfcare

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3. You’re forgetting important dates/appointment. | Can’t remember a doctor’s appointment? Forgot a someone special’s birthday? Your brain is on overload and you need to take a break. Period.

4. People keep telling you that you need a vacation. | The people we’re around the most tend to notice things about us before we do. If your coworkers, loved ones, and friends are constantly telling you that “you need a vacation”, maybe you should listen. I’m just saying…

5. You catch yourself staring off into space…more than a few times a day. | I’ve been guilty of this, but fortunately for me, I was able to quickly snap out of it. If you’re constantly daydreaming about something other than what you should be focused on, it may be time to check out, pack a bag and head to the beach!

Irritated? Always tired? Lacking motivation? You just might need a vacation. #selfcare

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6. You’re not motivated to workout anymore. | I’ve definitely lost my motivation to work out at one time or another. A short vacation to refocus your priorities may be exactly what you need to get you motivated and back on track to working out!

7. You’re becoming easily distracted. | Becoming easily distracted is definitely a sign that you need to getaway. If you can’t seem to focus on the task at hand, step away from work and treat yourself to a relaxing weekend staycation.

So tell me, do you think you need a vacation? Let me know!

Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway, a simple day of rest, a full-blown 2-week vacation or even a staycation, we all deserve a little break every now and then. Thanks for reading and until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | Styling a Kimono and a Dress…Again

July 6, 2016 by Whitney 23 Comments

One wardrobe item that will forever have a place in my closet is the kimono. I absolutely love styling them all year! My collection of kimonos are the most versatile and easy to wear pieces in my closet. They’re perfect to throw on over a sleeveless dress, which is exactly how I styled the kimono in today’s outfit. I had a feeling I’d get cold during a night out with hubs, so I grabbed one of my favorite kimonos and my outfit was complete!

Dress: Thrifted (Another Option) // Kimono: Nordstrom Rack (Another Option) // Flats: Aldo, Nordstrom Rack (Another Option)

Purse: Nine West, Gifted (Another Option) // Necklace: Macy’s (Another Option) // Earrings: Thrifted (Another Option)

It’s no wonder my love for kimonos runs deep; I’m such a fan of lightweight, no-fuss and flowy clothing, especially during the warmer months. I usually thrift them, but there are times I find quality and unique ones at department stores. I purchased this one at Nordstrom Rack a while back and since then, I’ve seen them sold pretty much everywhere. Chances are if you’re on the hunt for a kimono this season, you’ll definitely find one!

* See Also: Maxi Dress + a Kimono

Kimonos are a perfect year-round wardrobe must have. #wnjstyle

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So tell me, are you a fan of wearing kimonos? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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#WNJInspired | 5 Ways to Practice Gratitude + 5 Scriptures on Gratefulness

June 29, 2016 by Whitney 12 Comments

It’s so easy to be grateful when things are going well, but what about when things aren’t so great? Sometimes I have trouble practicing gratitude when things don’t go my way. This practice takes time and it’s continuous hard work. Thankfully I have been doing the work. As a result, this practice has become a little easier for me. While I still struggle from time to time, I can share at least 5 ways to practice gratitude. I’ve also included 5 scriptures on gratefulness that you may find helpful.

11 Scriptures on gratefulness

1. Keep a daily gratitude log. | I’ve been devoting the first 25 minutes of my day to gratitude and prayer. It’s taken me months to make this a habit, but I can’t imagine my mornings any other way. Each morning I write down 3 (different) things I’m grateful for. Taking the time to acknowledge certain things I’m grateful for helps set the tone for my day.

2. Send a handwritten thank you card. | I’ve been a fan of handwritten thank you cards for years. Taking the time to write and mail a thank you card is a simple way to show you care. Never underestimate what a handwritten and sincere note can do; taking that extra step goes a long way.

3. Be present and grateful in the moment. | This is probably the easiest way to practice gratitude, yet the most difficult to do. Why? Because we’re constantly thinking about what’s next. Stop thinking about what’s due two weeks from now or the appointment you have later in evening. Whatever you’re doing, be grateful that you’re alive and well enough to experience the moment. The deadlines, appointments and due dates can wait – be present and take a moment to be grateful.

5 simple ways to practice gratitude. #wnjinspired

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4. Say, “thank you.” | People are not always kind enough to say “thank you”, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t say it. I’ve noticed that people often stop and look at me like I’m crazy when I say “thank you.” It’s like for that moment they stopped and realize that people aren’t always so mean and nasty. Don’t allow someone’s sour attitude to rub off on you. Be an example and show them that gratitude isn’t dead.

5. Practice random acts of kindness. | Last month I came up with a list of 12 Random Acts of Kindness for my Fearless Woman Facebook Group. I was inspired to do so after learning about a mission in downtown Baltimore called, Selfless Saturday. Over the past few months, the couple spearheading the program have become friends of Darrius and I. Rich and Erika are on a mission to serve the homeless in the community, in cities around America, every second Saturday of the month by providing them with nutritious cooked food prepared by volunteers. I was inspired to challenge myself and my group to practice random acts of kindness for the month of May. Doing something for a stranger with pure intentions, without expecting anything in return, is the most selfless thing you can do and it’s an excellent way to practice gratitude.

So tell me, what do you think about these 5 ways to practice gratitude? How do you practice gratitude? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and feel free to share your tips or scriptures below. You can even tweet them using the #wnjinspired hashtag; I’d love to see gratitude tips and scriptures go viral! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | Black Skirt and Black Blouse + a Linkup

June 28, 2016 by Whitney 22 Comments

Hey, friends! I’ll be switching things up a bit today as I co-host the Bloggers Who’ve Inspired Me Linkup with Rachel. But first, let’s get into todays outfit…

Last week, I was able to wear my first short skirt of the season! I was thrilled the temperature was warm enough to show a little leg, so didn’t hesitate to style this black skirt and black blouse for a dinner date. Of course hubs was pleased, as he is anytime I show off my legs. So needless to say, the outfit was a hit!

Blouse: Nordstrom Rack (Similar) // Skirt: Style & Co, Macy’s (Another Option)

At first I thought wearing the sheer blouse would be enough, but I was going for the sexy-chic look. Therefore, I pushed the envelope a bit and added the shorter skirt as well. If an outfit is styled correctly, it’s OK to go for it and show off more than one “asset”.

Depending on how you style an outfit, it’s OK to show off more than one “asset”. #wnjstyle

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The black skirt, an item I’ve had for years, is a perfect item to have in my minimal wardrobe. It can easily be re-styled time and time again, and so can the sheer top! After all, think about how think about many times I’ve styled the blouse here on the blog. A LOT.

* See Also: Black and White Minimalism

Clutch: Purchase Here // Flats: Tesori, Nordstrom Rack (Another Option)

Now for “Bloggers Who Have Inspired Me” link up

Rachel of Garay Treasures blog:

Rachel is a former full time preschool special education teacher turned full time stay-at- home mom of four children with a passion for substitute teaching and blogging at Garay Treasures on the side. Garay Treasures is a fashion and lifestyle blog with some added posts on faith and everyday treasures. Rachel loves drinking several cups of coffee a day (hot or iced), blogging, and reading and playing with her children.

You can follow Rachel by bloglovin, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook or Pinterest.

Meet your co-host Whitney of Whitney Nic James Blog:

Whitney is a purpose driven wife and lifestyle blogger behind www.whitneynicjames.com. She is passionate about teaching women how to fearlessly live a stylish, affordable & uplifting lifestyle. You can follow Whitney via the following social medias: Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.

Now on to the featured 5 bloggers from last week, this time I selected 5 of the most clicked posts starting with the highest clicked on,but this won’t happen often:

Sherry looks so lovely in her watercolor dress and was the most clicked on from last week. See post here.

I love reading Stitch Fix box reviews, so this is one more to share and hopefully you will find something you like for your next fix.

Marta shares her life lately story and the fun stuff she has encountered lately, here.

Candace looks fantastic in this dressed up shift dress look. See post here.

How adorable is Katies paint splatted skirt and denim top look. I love Katie’s colorful and bright feminine outfits, see this one here.

Now it is your turn, please follow the rules below and enjoy!

1). Please link up recent posts and include the link up button or post this URL link back on your blog. The posts can be about fashion, DIY projects, recipes, inspiration, tips, etc. *If you link up other link ups or giveaways please be sure you share this link up on your link up post to share the blog love and I will be sure to link up to yours. Also please follow me in the below social medias and let me know how you are following and I will follow back. Thank you!

2). Please follow your host: Rachel of Garay Treasures either by Bloglovin, Instagram, Facebook or Twitter or all. Comment below and let me know how you are following so I can follow back.

3). Stop by and check out the other bloggers who have linked up and be inspired.

4). Have fun! Comment below if you have any questions! Thanks for linking

An InLinkz Link-up

To link up it would be great if you linked my button to your post that you link up. Get button code below:

<div align="center"><a href="http://www.garaytreasures.com" title="Garay Treasures" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.garaytreasures.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/bloggerswhohaveinspiredme.jpg" alt="Garay Treasures" style="border:none;" /></a></div><span id="mce_marker" data-mce-type="bookmark"></span><span id="__caret">_</span>

Lifestyle | Couples Night & Sutter Home Wines

June 20, 2016 by Whitney Leave a Comment

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #MoscatoMoments #CollectiveBias The following content is intended for readers who are 21 or older.

This weekend, Darrius and I hosted our first couples night. We invited 3 couples to munch on finger foods, taste an array of Sutter Home wines and play a few games. Why Sutter Home? This family-owned company has been around since 1948 and their blends are always affordable and great to pair with several foods. Sutter Home is truly the perfect wine to bring friends together to make them feel at home.

Our guests felt so at home that our conversations about life, love, politics, and everything in between kept us engaged until the wee hours of the morning. As the evening went on, we enjoyed the following flavors:

Sutter Homes Pink Moscato
Sutter Homes Red Mascato
Sutter Homes Chardonnay

Of the three, the Pink Moscato and Chardonnay were the favorite flavors. The group enjoyed the sweet taste of the Pink Moscato and the crisp, refreshing taste of the Chardonnay. The Red Moscato was sweet as well, but I noticed that our guests heavily requested seconds and thirds of the other flavors.

Of course I had to make something special, so I decided to blend Sutter Homes Pink Moscato with ginger ale, strawberries and crushed ice. Once blended, I created a Pink Moascato & Strawberry Slush. Refreshing, with just the right amount sweet, the drink was a hit! The recipe is simple and takes less than 7 minutes. Check it out:

Pink Moscato & Starberry Slush

Wash off and dice 7-10 strawberries
Measure and pour 1/2 cup of ginger ale
Add diced strawberries into the Nutribullet
Pour ginger ale over strawberries
Add a few spoons of crushed iced
Full the rest of the cup with Sutter Home Pink Moscato
Blend for a few seconds or until fully blended
Pour blended mixture into wine glasses, add strawberry to the side and ENJOY!

(Msg 4 21+) Start your summer off with a glass of your favorite @SutterHome wine!

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So tell me, have you ever tried Sutter Home wines? If so, what’s your favorite flavor? Let me know!

Whenever there’s good food, an amazing playlist and wine, you’re guaranteed to have a great time! Serving the award-winning Sutter Homes wines was perfect for our summer entertaining needs; we’ll definitely be using these flavors for future summer gatherings, for sure. Thanks for reading and happy summer! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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#WNJDrives | 2017 Hyundai Elantra Review

June 17, 2016 by Whitney 8 Comments

A few weeks ago I had to chance to test drive the 2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited. My first reaction to this compact sports-like car was, “WOW!” I was thoroughly impressed with the sleek design, shiny wheels and overall chic exterior. Siting inside the car I was even more impressed! From the soft leather trimmed seats to the modern dashboard, the interior was superb. And although the car is compact, there’s much more room on the inside than I expected.

Photo Credit

During the week I drove to and from work here in Columbia, as well as in and around D.C. and Baltimore for work purposes. All week the gas gauge stayed steady and I didn’t have to fill it up once. Of course I had to test the sound system as soon as I got it, which by the way was exceptional! Whenever I’m able to listen to music, podcasts and audio-books on the go, I’m a happy girl!

Check out this review on the chic and compact 2017 @Hyundai Elantra Limited! #wnjdrives

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The one feature I was very impressed with was Apple CarPlay. By plugging up your iPhone to the car, this feature literally takes what’s on your iPhone screen and puts it on the built-in touchscreen display right in front of you. While focusing on the road you can ask Siri for directions, make calls, send and receive texts and of course, listen to music.

This car is perfect for college students, young professionals and even families because of its safe and modern features. Check out some of the other noteworthy features:

– Blind Spot Detection System with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

– Leather Trimmed Steering Wheel & Shift Nob

– Bluetooth Hands-free capabilities

– Apple CarPlay OR Andriod Auto

– Heated Front & Rear Seats

– Steering Wheel Controls

– Hands-Free Smart Trunk

– 7 inch Color Touchscreen

– Rear-view Camera

– Sirius XM & HD Radio

So tell me, what do you think about the 2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited? Let me know!

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* Drive Shop USA provided me with this vehicle to test drive. All opinions are my own. *

Personal Style | Wearing All Black + Taking a Moment to Slow Down

June 15, 2016 by Whitney 11 Comments

During the summertime I’m constantly on the go. I’m actually preparing for a few trips in July and August as we speak. However, before travel season kicks off, I’ve decided to take the next few weeks to slow down a bit. Weather it’s a walk in the park, scheduling an extra massage or facial or dining lakefront for date night with hubs, I want to take some time to enjoy the weather and scenery here in Columbia (Maryland). That’s exactly what I did the evening I wore this outfit. Hubs and I headed to the Lakefront in Columbia after dinner to eat some ice cream, walk around and of course, snap outfit pics.

Whitney Nic James – Wearing All Black

Leggings: Style & Co. (Another Option) // Tunic: Sejour, Nordstrom Rack (Cute Option) // Clutch: Love, Cortnie (Same) // Flats: Aldo, Nordstrom Rack (Similar)

I decided, for the 200th time this year, to wear an all black outfit. I added my faux leather leggings due to the cooler than usual temperatures that night. Not only did I look cute, but I was also cozy and covered up. I’m also glad I wore these leggings because those mosquitoes by the lake are no joke!

If you wear a lot of all black, be sure to keep your accessories bold & exciting! #wnjstyle

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You’re probably thinking, “you’re wearing all black again, Whitney?!” Well, yes…and why not? As mentioned in this post, I often gravitate to all black outfits, especially during this season where I’m building my minimal wardrobe. I always keep in mind that as long as my accessories are on point, wearing all black outfits can be exciting!

Necklace: Thrifted, Goodwill // Gold Cuff: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue // Watch: Charming Chalie (Another Option)

So tell me, what are some of your plans this summer? Also, what are your thoughts on styling all black outfits? Let me know!

Be sure to add your latest outfit to this week’s linkup – I can’t wait to see what you’re wearing! By the way, don’t forget to keep up with me over on Snapchat. I’ve become such a fan and I truly enjoy connecting with my readers and fellow bloggers through the app! Until Friday, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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* Linkups: Garay’s Treasures, How I Summer, Let it Shine, On Trend Tuesday, Style Me Wednesday, Visible Monday, WIW *

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