Melificent

The Barre Code: Miami

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As you all know, I’m on my fitness journey to lose the baby weight gained during my pregnancy. I managed to tack on 41 lbs during those 9 months, and although I’ve managed to lose 27 of those pounds, I’m hitting the hardest wall to climb. The closer I get to my pre-baby weight, the harder it is to shed those pesky pounds. I have to be more strict with my diet (which I hate), and of course, exercise more. That’s why I jumped at the chance to try out Miami’s newest Barre class, The Barre Code, thanks to The Blogger Union.

I used to dance ballet, and was really passionate about it. I even wanted to pursue it professionally at one point! It wasn’t until I hit high school and thought I was “over it,” that I quit. It’s one of the few regrets I have, so the opportunity to stand at a barre again was way too tempting. Granted, I think I totally underestimated the level of butt-kicking I would experience at a Barre class. I haven’t taken a fitness class led by an instructor in years, much less to this degree. Guys, it’s 3 days since my class at the time I’m writing this post and I still can’t walk properly, sit down without holding on to something, and I can’t even think of bending down. This was some serious stuff. But it was amazing!

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The Barre Code has a beautiful and zen-inducing space in Biscayne that includes a gorgeous (and spacious) LED-lit studio, lockers, and even post-workout freshening stations. It is so inviting and relaxing in there, plus staff is a complete joy. Our instructor, Jo, was amazing. She is the kind of instructor that I enjoy when I’m taking a class – supportive, encouraging and energetic. I personally cannot stand attending fitness classes where you are being shouted at and made to feel inferior – I go to these classes not only to workout, but also to disconnect from the daily stress of my life. Jo was the complete opposite. She was constantly praising our abilities and how hard we were working. The encouragement only made me want to push myself harder (even though it was really, really tough for this out of shape mama).

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Nerdy Must Haves

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Butts tee; If you are looking to casual cosplay as Tina Belcher, look no farther. This perfect ringer tee with “BUTTS” emblazoned across the chest will give you all the sensual vibes you need to portray everyone’s favorite awkward teen. Or if you are just feeling sassy, you can show your love for nice behinds while getting drinks with friends on a Sunday Funday.

Sherlock holy candle; This had me in stitches. If you grew up in a Latin household, chances are there was a little bit of superstition and a little bit of witchcraft in your life. I am well acquainted with these holy candles, and seeing them rocking Sherlock and John’s faces is just too much. I’d love to plop this bad boy on the table as part of my sacred space just as a reminder to not take life so seriously.

Darth Vader sleep mask; After frequent trips abroad and around the US a couple of years ago, I realized the importance of a sleep mask to shut the rest of the world out when you really, really need some shut eye. Now there are plenty of cute and stylish sleep masks, but none more demanding of attention and obedience than this Darth Vader one!

Vintage Disney brooch; Now that I have a little one, our trips to Disney will be way more frequent (goodbye Universal annual pass). This means all sorts of new fandom accessories and clothing (for the two of us)! One of my favorite new Etsy stores is Match Accessories and I am absolutely loving their line of vintage brooches. This beautiful wooden vintage “D” would make the perfect touch for your Dapper Day outfit or just pinned to a top with a Peter Pan collar.

What I Wore: Negatrash

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One of the many perks of being an officer for Geek Girl Brunch South Florida is being able to choose your favorite fandoms as a theme for a future brunch. I was ecstatic to finally host a Sailor Moon brunch, and had so much fun putting together my outfit! I knew I wanted to play on the whole biker gang sailor scout styling that I had seen roaming around the Internets, but take it down a notch, so that it would be more wearable and easy for me to move around in without feeling self conscious during our brunch.

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I have to admit that I have a pretty amazing secret to share with you all when it comes to buying every day cosplay items that you may not wear consistently. It’s called AliExpress, and your wallet will thank me profusely for it. I know my bank account is ready to give me a big bear hug. That’s where the majority of my look came from, and if I told you the grand total – you may fall over.

Dress; AliExpress
Vest; AliExpress
Pins & Patches; TinInk {gifted}
Black Moon headband; RaicoDoll
Lipstick; Sephora Brand’s Cream Lip Stain in Strawberry Kissed

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Are you a local reader? You should definitely sign up for Geek Girl Brunch South Florida! We are having a killer 1st birthday party next month at Super Wheels that is Disney themed! Look out for the full post on our brunch on the official site soon!

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Creating a Sacred Space

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Things have been going on in my personal life that have been causing me a lot of stress and anguish that I’d rather keep off the blog (don’t worry, Luna is fine). However, this thing has made me realize how important it is to somehow balance myself and make sure I’m there for my daughter in every way possible. Life can get very hectic for all of us, and I wanted to create a little retreat for myself that I could go to when I have the time to just meditate or send thoughts and prayers. I consider myself a spiritual person, but honestly, this space can be anything for you, regardless of religion. Ultimately, it is just my little corner of peace from a sometimes very loud and stressful life.

As mentioned, I think everyone can benefit from a space like this, so I thought I would share how I created mine! First off, I’d like to say how hysterical I find it that I got almost every single piece at Hobby Lobby, which is known for its staunch, conservative views. I don’t agree with this one bit, but I’ll be completely honest here: I freaking LOVE their products and am borderline obsessed with the place. I’m a consumer, and I’m not ashamed of it. Sue me.

But on to the creating! As I mentioned, I took my happy-little-namaste-needing-self to Hobby Lobby a couple of weeks ago and started shopping for supplies. Although we own our own home, it has an open floor plan, which means not a whole lot of nooks and crannies for little spots like these. I actually had to move my hamper out of the way so that I could use this small corner of our bedroom, so I was looking for a small table. This one was perfect as it matched our bedroom’s decor, but had adequate tabletop space, which is needed! You could also add a little pouf or blanket so that you can comfortably sit in front of it, but I just don’t have the room so I sit on the floor.

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I got two small dishes: one that holds all my crystal jewelry and pendulum, and another that holds my sage and palo santo. The jewelry is self explanatory. I wear it when I feel I need the extra inspiration or protection, depending on the crystal and the situation. As for the pendulum, it’s my favorite magical item. Find out more about them here.
The palo santo and sage are to cleanse my space and self of negative energies. This is a staple in my life. I smudge quite often, and an added benefit is that both smell so great. They leave my house smelling lovely (which is nice considering I barely have time for housework these days).
Again, if this isn’t your vibe at all, you can have little trinkets that remind you to be at peace or maybe bring you closer to a role model or a person that meant a lot to you (like your grandmother’s ring, for example). I also have an absolutely tiny (& adorable) Buddha bust that stands watch at the center of my table.

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Life with Luna: 4 months

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Time feels like it is racing by. I recently visited my bestie who just had her daughter, and when holding little Zelda, I could not believe that just 4 months ago, I had someone even tinier in my arms. It really put things into perspective. Before I know it, my baby girl will be a year old and hobbling around like a tiny drunk human and these precious moments will be only memories. Luna only gets more amazing with every day.

She has finally decided to start rolling over from tummy to back consistently, but she will only grace me with one performance a day (which is apparently normal at this stage). She is also getting very vocal – sometimes screaming with joy or determination (I will stick you in my mouth, toy!), and can sit up with some proper propping (definitely not the case with this photo). Lu is a pro at tummy time now, even with her helmet, although she much rather be on her back having dance parties with mom and dad.

Luna started this journey barely scratching the growth charts at the 3rd percentile and is now in the 50th for weight and 25th for length. It’s amazing how far she has come in such a short period of time. She’s such a tough little girl that is laid back and goes with the flow. She has easily adjusted into our lifestyle and schedules, and seriously makes our lives so much happier on a daily basis. All mommy and daddy ask for is for a better sleep pattern (sleep regression sucks)!

Until next month, moon of my life!