Cassey Ho's Blog, page 24
June 12, 2023
Designs That Died: Part 2
Designs can get canceled during the sampling process for many different reasons. Today I am showing you styles that weren’t canceled because they were ugly, but rather – because they lacked a strong Why.
Design 1View this post on Instagram
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I honestly really like it and think it’s so beautiful. I would totally wear it, but I could just see the comments flooding in berating me for making everything cropped. Comments saying how useless this top was. POPFLEX has become a brand that solves problems and designs with function in mind, and TBH because I could not see myself strongly “defending” this design for either of those things, I decided to kill it.
Design 2For this one, I just didn’t think the Why was strong enough. I mean, aesthetically, we definitely could have gotten there with some adjustments but I didn’t see a strong reason why you would need this in your closet. Therefore, cancel.
Agree or disagree?What do you think? Rightfully killed or should I bring something back from the dead?
Unplanned bucket list adventure to see LAVA!!!
Life bucket list item – COMPLETE 
I’ve missed too many opportunities to chase my volcano dreams due to work and a busy schedule. Plus Sam isn’t really into it and I don’t want to force him to be into it but I hate traveling without him. (I’m the most incompetent traveler FYI.)
But when I found out that Kilauea erupted on Thursday, I couldn’t hold back any longer. I bought a plane ticket on Friday and arrived with the sole mission of seeing my volcano on Saturday. I mean, even though June will be the CRAZIEST travel itinerary of my life, I also only have one life, and if I die before seeing active lava, it will be a forever regret.
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Friday morning I called Jackelyn to see if she wanted to come on this random adventure with me. She was like umm excuse me what? You crazy. I was like yeah, I am, but wanna come??
She agreed.
24 hours later, we met on Big Island and saw one of the most magnificent things I have ever seen. Glowing orange fountains spewed with fury under a glittering diamond-studded sky. I had never seen anything like it. I was giddy, humbled and complete all at once. And to experience this bucket list item with my little sister all on a whim…ah…I just feel so lucky, so grateful.
BackstoryGrowing up, whenever my parents took me to the library I always checked out National Geographic videotapes. I specifically remember one episode where the scientist walked right up to the lava and I thought to myself, “One day I want to do that too.” There was just something so mysterious and powerful about that orange glow.
Elementary school Cassey put “seeing lava” on her life bucket list not knowing how or when or where this would happen. But I’m so happy to report that last night adult Cassey fulfilled that wish.
I encourage you all to stop waiting to do the thing.JUST DO THE THING. We only have one life. So go live it, and live it passionately.
June 7, 2023
It’s Not Too Late to Shop These Father’s Day Gift Ideas
Is it just me, or does Father’s Day sneak up on us every year?
The fathers in my life (my dad, FIL, and husband) never ask for anything but deserve everything. So, every year I have big plans to really spoil them. And every year I’m like…omg that’s NEXT WEEK?!
Luckily, I’m a little ahead of the game this year. But shipping deadlines are coming up quick! If you’re like me and shopping last minute for the person who is often super difficult to shop for, no worries. I have some ideas that will not only show appreciation but might even move you to the “favorite child” spot (jk I know parents don’t choose favorites 
).
Image: BruMate
The BruMate Hopsulator not only looks way better than the peeling foam koozie he always grabs now, but it will actually keep his drink cold.
This can-cooler fits any 12-ounce can, meaning it works even if it’s not beer he grabs after mowing the lawn. Plus it functions as a tumbler with a leakproof lid if he’d rather pour a beverage.
Upgrade his cooler
Image: Igloo
IGLOO Trailmate Journey 70 Qt Cooler
If your dad is like mine, he’s had the same cooler since the 80s. There’s nothing wrong with that (things were made better back then), but it might be time for an upgrade.
The IGLOO Trailmate is perfect for the dad who loves to camp, fish, or spend weekends at kids’ outdoor sporting events. It’s big enough to hold all of the necessities, whether that means water, beer, or snacks. But this cooler’s flex is in the details:
2 pole slots for umbrellas or fishing polesTie-down hooks to carry things like beach towelsInterior basket that keeps selected items dryRemovable butler trayLockable, water-resistant compartmentAdd tunes to his golf game
Image: Amazon
This little speaker is great to keep in a golf bag, take on a fishing trip, or for the beach. I love that it has a clip so it doesn’t get lost. Plus it’s waterproof, durable, and has great sound.
For the sentimental dad
Image: Wonderbly
If you’re looking to tug on his heartstrings, go for one of these customizable books. This is probably the best personal Father’s Day gift idea! Add photos, tidbits about his life, inside jokes, and all of the reasons you love him.
The ultimate recovery tool
Image: Amazon
This one’s for the dad who spends time in the gym or finds himself with tight muscles after a long day in the yard. The Theragun is an amazing tool for working out knots and tension. Plus this newest version is the lightest and smallest, meaning it’s the easiest to pack for on-the-go.
A “punny” grilling tool
Image: OTOTO
New grilling tools are always a win for dad. The Hell Done food thermometer by OTOTO is fun and unique, but also practical.
(Cool) dad shoes
Image: New Balance
I bought my husband a pair of New Balance 608s (AKA the classic “dad shoe”) for Father’s Day a few years back. He’s been mowing the grass in them ever since! They’re beautifully stained with grass, just as they should be.
But dad shoes aren’t just for yard work. This upgraded New Balance shoe is chunky and gives dad vibes, but is also stylish.
Shorts that aren’t falling apart
Image: Vuori
Vuori Sunday Performance Shorts
Dads are notorious for holding onto clothing items until they fall apart. If his favorite shorts are nearing the end of life, get him a new favorite before he tries to salvage the others any longer.
The Vuori Sunday Performance Shorts are comfy enough to be pajamas without looking like pajamas. He can wear them for his workout, on a hike, on the couch watching the game, or even out to lunch.
Relief from sore muscles
Image: Verma Farms
Verma Farms Mahalo Muscle Relief
Relief from a sore back, bad shoulder, or other ailments might be the best Father’s Day gift you can give. This muscle relief cream by Verma Farms contains CBD to help alleviate pain and inflammation and menthol to create a cooling effect. It rolls on, which means no mess and it’s easy to take on the go.
Need more Father’s Day gift ideas?Check out this list of non-cheesy gifts for him and this list of gifts for people who like to cook.
Is This High-End Stroller Wagon Worth the Price Tag?
*This piece features my personal opinion on the Wonderfold W2 Luxe Stroller Wagon. All thoughts are based on my individual experience with the product, including features that I loved and those that I didn’t.
My short list of criteria for deciding what to tote my little one around in is fairly simple. The ride needs to have comfortable and safe seating, easily unfold and later fold back up for trunk storage, and of course, offer ample space for baby gear. Whether it’s a sleek, lightweight travel stroller or other situation-serving option, the buy has to check these boxes.
But…what about planning your purchase around the inevitable: when your infant grows into a toddler and onto a big(er) kid? If you have an independent tot on your hands, you’re no stranger to your bundle of joy’s growing hunger for new ways to experience the world around them. Namely, not sitting strapped into a stroller or car seat.
Real talk: the moment my son got a taste of mobility, our stroller became the ultimate obstacle to going on walks.
Every attempt to buckle him in was accompanied by an arched back, digging his heels into the seat in an attempt to springboard out of the ride, and of course, tears. It was a tough period for me as a mom who cherished our morning walks to start the day off on the right foot. 
Pun fully intended.
I was looking for wheels I could easily maneuver, and would be a few steps above the red, plastic rectangle I fondly remember my sister pulling me down the neighborhood street in. Less retro, more functionality, if you will.
With Summer around the corner, our adventures would require space to store everything from wet clothes to snacks and wheels that could take on grassy hills and smooth sidewalks. A wagon would give him a new vantage point, support the sense of freedom he sought at every corner, and would offer our family more storage space on outings. Bonus points if I could find one with a sunshade to protect him from the scorching summer rays here at the beach.
The Wonderfold Stroller WagonWhen I stumbled upon the IG sensation, Wonderfold’s wagons, I knew they were worth researching. The W2 Luxe Stroller Wagon featured:
All-terrain XL wheelsRaised seats, a sunshadeAn adjustable handlebarA magnetic harness, and A weight capacity of 200 pounds.
It looked chic and spacious and could fit another little one when our family grows. Until then, my girlfriends could throw their littles in the second seat during trail walks or trips to the splash pad. With nearly 1,500 5-star reviews, why not take one of their wagons for a (literal) spin? My biggest question was: was this ride worth the price tag?
The SetupI’m not one to judge a stroller wagon by its box, but the weight of this delivery had me quickly wondering: would it be a beast to push? How will I manage to get this into my car’s trunk? My concerns were quickly resolved after I had a chance to take it for a ride, but more on that later.
As a self-proclaimed setup amateur, I enlisted my husband’s help to get the wagon road-ready. It was a fairly simple process, mostly because Wonderfold offers a setup video that’s easy to follow. My son was quick to scurry over and help us, confiscating each piece as we hurried to put the wagon together. I loved that there weren’t any small, choking hazards floating around. Instead, we had seats, the brake pedal, and heavy wheels on the floor in our setup area. As my toddler happily pushed the wheels across our floor with his body weight, it gave extreme obstacle course vibes. These are the mildly hilarious, little moments I cherish.
Hooking the raised seats onto the wagon’s frame was the finishing touch and a slight challenge on the first go. They’re unbelievably sturdy, aka these seats aren’t going anywhere once clipped in. I loved the sense of security this gave me, and clipping the seats in became easier with more reps. Now I’m a pro and can set up the wagon in seconds.
After parking the wagon in our now playroom, brake on, my son was beyond excited to climb into what almost looked like a Pack ‘n Play on wheels because it was so spacious. He was perched up high, standing in the center, gaining more inches in a moment than he had in the last 3 months. He loved the viewpoint and having his own nook so much, that he had a *minor* meltdown trying to take him out of it. Better to protest getting out than protesting getting in!
The Scoop on the (Wagon) StrollOur first stroll in the wagon was wildly successful. We took a walk in our neighborhood – on roads that could use some serious TLC – and from getting my son buckled in, to the end of a 45-minute walk, he was content, engaged, and joyful. As I passed him sticks and leaves to explore with his hands, he wondered at his new vantage point that gave him a comfortable, forward-facing view of the neighborhood he knew so well. It was the first seamless walk we had taken in months. But as kids are, I knew a fickle attitude could mean our next attempt was a different story.
Typically, I can feel every pothole our day-to-day stroller runs over. This sensation was nonexistent with the wagon. It was a smooth walk for the books, all around.
Adventuring away from homeThe following week my husband and I took the Wonderfold stroller wagon on the road, walking through one of our favorite oceanfront neighborhoods. Admittedly, getting the wagon into the back of my car was a challenge at first. It took both of us to lift and place it flat in my trunk. Its weight caught me off guard – but also confirmed something I knew from our first ride. This was a sturdy wagon. Since our first adventure, I’ve figured out a way to lift and lower the wagon in a position that works best for me solo.
Prepped with watermelon cubes and fig bars, we hit the pavement. In the wagon’s storage pockets, I placed my phone, sunglasses, water for the family, a light sweatshirt for my son, and backup snacks, not even scratching the storage surface. The exterior pocket storage, rear storage bin, and deep body of the wagon give you space for days. 
My Cora Backpack (AKA my diaper bag) fit perfectly in place of the second seat.
The 5-way magnetic harness and buckle (still) impressed me with its Fort Knox level of security. Our very wiggly son wasn’t going to magically unclip himself. Mid-walk, we took a break and let him stand in the wagon, exploring the zippers which he quickly became infatuated with. His curiosity turned into a game of peekaboo, squatting down and intermittently popping up. His loud giggles expressed, “Here I am!”
Notable featuresAs our adventures continued on different terrains in various weather, we experimented with the sunshade. It stores easily in the stroller and adjusts to shield your little one no matter where the sun hits. My hands fell in love with the buttery vegan leather handlebar cover that unzips and removes if you want to get down and dirty on your rides. You know, when your walk through the woods somehow turns into collecting mud, rocks, and sticks.
As with many families, my husband and I aren’t the same height and prefer pushing handlebars at different angles. So, having 7 handlebar adjustment options means we can push comfortably, even if we’re mid-walk and switch who’s driving.
I felt empowered every time we had a successful outing in the wagon, not only because it made my son happy, but because it gave me everything I was in search of…and something I wasn’t. A little added workout. The wagon pushes easily and is accompanied by a slight heaviness that gives a touch of added resistance. Instead of bouncing through walks and feeling every big rock beneath us, the wagon absorbs the shock and gives me a constant, ever-so-slight weight to push forward.
Spotted: Wonderfold Stroller Wagon TakeoverWhen you start seeing a hot product everywhere, there’s typically merit to its popularity. And I can say with full confidence that I understood why my trips to the farmers market and local botanical garden were suddenly filled with Wonderfold Stroller Wagon sightings. And I mean everywhere.
I never saw the same model twice, reinforcing the idea that not only does Wonderfold offer durable, quality wagons, but they have options for every type of family. Watching a family of 3 littles very close in age roll past the farm market’s donut stand made me realize how perfect the wagon is for families who need seating for 2 or more kids. Instead of investing in multiple strollers over time, once your littles are 6 months or older, they can sit in a 4-seater wagon for years to come. Each W4 Luxe Stroller Wagon’s 2 bench seats 99 pounds (close to 50 lb per seat), and the wagon can hold up to 300 pounds. That’s 100 pounds beyond the weight of your children!
Gets a BIG thumbs up for:Smoothest ride we’ve owned, and we’ve tried quite a few strollersMade to last – quality and durability with premium materialsRemovable, adjustable sunshade – great for sunny days or shading your little one for a napSpacious interior – room to store adventure essentials beneath seats and in the center of the wagon Add-on snack tray available (because snacks are always a must)All-terrain XL wheels conquer bumpy roads, grassy hills, and gravel easily5-point magnetic harness – your little Einstein isn’t breaking out! Exterior storage on sides and in rear basket (all included)Zip opening at the end of carriage so littles can crawl in and out when parkedHigh weight capacity (45 lbs per seat, 200 lbs per wagon)Deep carriage means my son can currently stand and watch the world go by *yes, I’m always right next to himEasy to fold and quickly put in your trunkIdeal for families of multiple littles very close in age – triplet moms, take a look at the W4 Luxe Stroller Wagon!What I didn’t love:Investment price point – The MSRP on this stroller wagon is $659. But, based on durability, quality, and anticipated years of use, this was a great investment for our familyInitially challenging to hook the seats in – this became easier with more reps, and now is a breezeSlightly heavier than I would like from a lifting standpoint. However, its weight means heavy-duty materials, and feels grounded as you stroll. No topple-over terror for this mama!
A *Wonderful* WagonThe W2 Luxe Stroller Wagon was so worth the investment for our family. Our long days out are greeted with less resistance in-between stops for play and getting buckled back in. It’s a perfect shaded spot for my son to snack and hydrate, and I love the look and feel of every ride. While complimenting parents on their cuties in passing is normal, we had never received shoutouts about our stroller until pushing this wagon. From “That looks luxurious!” to “Wow, the Rolls Royce of wagons!” the flattery doesn’t stop.
I feel confident in the wagon’s durability for years (and kids) to come, and know my son will live for the snack tray that’s in our shopping cart.
Would you take a Wonderfold stroller wagon for a ride?What are you and your littles looking for in a wagon?
The Running Shorts To End All Running Shorts…
Hey guys!
This is the running short to end all running shorts.
I’m serious. I’ve been a running shorts hater for a long time bc they always make me look Frump City, USA, but that’s only because the ones I’ve bought weren’t well thought out.
As you know, every design that comes to life must have a WHY. This one was pretty clear since I have such strong feelings about running shorts.
I already knew the two major icks had with regular running shorts, so I started there.
Why an inner panty??They always give me thigh crease rashes and bumps.Let’s replace that with an inner booty short!
Why a restrictive outer fabric??
Let’s do a lightweight one that streeeetches!
Meet the SupershortView this post on Instagram
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No front seam bc cameltoe hurts whether or not you can see it!
Pockets cuz duh.
High-waisted and anti-pinch bc we love a snatched look.
High-cut outer shorts to give the illusion of longer legs, but you’re still protected by the length of the inner booty shorts!
This is my fave POPFLEX shorts design of all time. I love them so much. I mean it when I say these running shorts will end all running shorts. 
Obvi I’m wearing these with my favorite bra right now, the Corset Bra. If I need more coverage or coziness, I’ll layer with a Perfect Tee or a Cloud Hoodie!
If you’re wondering about sizing for the shorts, these are true to size! Just follow the size chart. I am size small wearing a small. 5’5”. It comes in XXS-3X!
Any questions!? Ask in the comments below!
June 5, 2023
POPFLEX Swim is FINALLY HAPPENING!!!
Hey guys!
2 summers ago, I put these polls up and you guys told me exactly what you wanted if I were to ever design a swim line.
It took way way longer than I expected, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned about product development, it’s that rushing into anything is just a BIG MISTAKE WAITING TO HAPPEN.
View this post on Instagram
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I’ve seen every single one of your comments asking me to make a swim collection for POPFLEX, and I’m so happy to tell you that after 2 years of development, of sampling, of testing, and of many many failed styles…
POPFLEX Active Swim is FINALLY happening.Coming…this Summer 2023 
It was so fun to browse through the polls to see what you all actually asked for 2 years ago. It made me wonder: Have your thoughts changed?
But sharing those poll results now sparked LOTS of emotions.
It was interesting to see how a bunch of people hated on the poll results, saying how much they disagree, so I reposted the poll for everyone to get a second chance at voting. It had been 2 years anyway. But as you probably saw in my IG stories, nothing really changed.
Anyway, I thought it’d be interesting for you to see me sketch a design based on the poll results exactly.View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)
The community votes ended up giving me an underwire bra with a high-waisted bikini brief.
What do you think? Would you wear this? Tell me in the comments your honest opinion!
May 31, 2023
Trader Joe’s Summer Haul: What to Get and What to Skip
My Trader Joe’s summer haul – What’s worth the hype, and what should you skip?
Trader Joe’s just dropped a TON of new summer items. And when this happens, it doesn’t take long for FOMO to set in – If you wait around too long, you might miss some of the hottest seasonal items.
Did I make my family stop at the location in Franklin, TN on our way home from our vacation in Florida? Yes I did. I knew my upcoming week was too busy to trek to my local TJ’s. I also knew they wouldn’t mind because exploring a new TJ’s is like a mini vacay in itself.
Speaking of exciting…
What’s new at Trader Joe’s for summer?Brand new items, and returning seasonal faves.
UBE IS BACKThe return of ube is one of my favorite signs of summer. I spotted the Tea Cookies (these are meh) and Ube Joe Joe’s (yum) in my store in early May, but I was anxiously awaiting two of my faves:
1. Ube Mochi Waffle/Pancake MixI love this mix. I was tempted to fill an entire cart … but I held back at two boxes.
Don’t tell Joe, but I actually found a replacement for this mix during the off-season. It’s this Mochi Pancake recipe that uses the new Blogilates Ube Protein Powder.
But at the end of the day, this mix is absolutely worth buying.
2. Ube Ice CreamSo…about this ice cream. I heard the recipe changed, affecting the flavor in a negative way. I tried it for myself and … it does taste a little different! It’s still okay, and I’ll definitely finish the pint (we don’t waste ube ice cream around here), but I’m wondering what exactly changed… and why?
Brazil Nut lovers rejoice!Another summer cult fave is back and with more sweet-smelling goodness. Now is the time to stock up on the body butter that some say is a dupe for Sol de Janeiro Brazillian Bum Bum Cream (I say it’s worth buying, but not a perfect dupe).
I also bought the new Brazil Nut Body Wash and Salted Caramel & Pistachio Candle. What excited me the most though…was the hot pink Brazil Nut Insulated Bag. It is CUTE and roomy and only $7.99! A no-brainer.
Patio Potato ChipsLast year, I only grabbed one bag of these because I’m not a huge potato chip girly (I just get burnt out really fast). This year, I grabbed two.
There are actually 4 chip flavors in this bag:
Sea Salt & VinegarDelicious DillHomestyle KetchupSmokin’ Sweet BBQ
SO MUCH FLAVOR.
*Pro tip – open the bag upside down! The seasoning tends to settle at the bottom of the bag, so opening from the bottom helps shake things up for max flavor.
Chili Onion Crunch HummusI’m obsessed with all things Crunchy Chili Onion, so this was an obvious yes. Why hadn’t I thought of putting this in hummus before?!
With that in mind, you could just make this yourself – the product isn’t anything special. But buying it premixed is convenient and definitely makes eating your veggies a lot more exciting.
Enchanted JangleThis one surprised me, but I’m also hearing that reviews have been mixed.
Trader Joe’s jangles are famous for a reason – they know what they’re doing! Maybe it’s the colors or unicorn theme, but I expected the Enchanted Jangle to be an overly sweet miss.
I opened these right in the parking lot of Trader Joe’s, and actually found the flavor to be pretty balanced. The coating on the sweet pieces is actually yogurt, which tones it down a bit. Then you have a little chocolate mixed in, and of course some salt from the pretzels.
Crunchy Jalapeño Lime & OnionI bought this last year with no clue how to use it. So it sat in my pantry…for months. And then I discovered that I can make guacamole with it. Here’s how easy it is:
1 Teeny Tiny avocado2 tbsp (or measure with your heart) Jalapeño Lime & Onion
Mash the avocado, stir in the crunch, and have yourself guacamole for one. Sometimes I sprinkle on some Everything but the Elote seasoning. Sometimes I throw in some chopped tomatoes.
You can also drizzle this on chicken tacos, turkey burgers, and veggies. It’s crunchy, not too spicy, and has a mild lime flavor.
Mediterranean Style Salad KitI saw this in the Fearless Flyer and I’m not even sure if it’s new, seasonal, or just new to me? But I have a lot to say about it. Let’s break down my rating:
Salad style (chopped) = 10/10Combination of toppings = 10/10Dressing = 10/10Portion of toppings = 0/10
According to the label, this bag contains 3 servings of salad. Now, take a look at the crumbled feta, flatbread, and roasted chickpeas. Is it just me, or should there be about 3 times as much to cover 3 servings of salad?
Luckily, I had my own feta so I didn’t have to ration what was in the bag. But I was so disappointed with the number of roasted chickpeas! This is a great add-in for crunch and some protein, so I was hoping for more.
In the future I think I’ll use this kit as inspiration to build my own Mediterranean salad with feta, sundried tomatoes, Biena chickpeas, and a vinaigrette.
Sparkling Watermelon JuiceWatermelon-flavored things are hit or miss, so I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this juice. I guess it’s because it’s REAL watermelon juice, with no artificial sugar or sweeteners.
I also love that it’s sparkling juice – so refreshing! But all I can think about is making a margarita with it. Maybe with a chili-lime rim? I’ll report back on that.
Jalapeño LimeadeA must-buy every year. Just add a little tequila and you have yourself a spicy marg. Or go the mocktail route and add non-alcoholic tequila (I like Ritual!). You can also drink this straight from the bottle as is.
If you’re obsessed with spicy bevvies like me, go ahead and buy two bottles.
Strawberry & Vanilla Yogurt PretzelsThis was the store sample when we stopped by and let me tell you…they got us. I didn’t plan on buying these because I have a pretty good idea of what yogurt-covered pretzels taste like (always good) and I felt like we were good on the snacky stuff.
I love how these are bite-sized! And the strawberry flavor is perfect.
What didn’t make it into my haulSadly, I missed a few new items that I really had my heart set on:
Mini (Almost) Everything Bagel Sandwich Crackers – I am so sad I haven’t found these yet. I looked in two different stores and nothing. Did I miss them? The reviews I’ve seen so far are all over the place. Some say they’re insanely good, and some say they’re not great (and sweet?). If you tried them, leave a comment with your thoughts!
S’mores Clusters – Another one that I didn’t see in either store, but I think it’s safe to say they’re as good as they sound.
Peanut Butter Crispy Rice Bites – These are still pretty new, so maybe I just missed their arrival! 
I’m sure this won’t be my last Trader Joe’s haul anytime soon. If there’s anything I missed, let me know in the comments so I can snag it on my next stop!
The 100 Arms Challenge!! Are You In?!
Hey guys!
Last month, we did a lil’ poll over on the @blogilatesdotcom IG asking what you’d love to see for upcoming challenges. An arms-focused challenge was the most requested, by a landslide!
Well… ask and you shall receive 
Get ready for the 100 Arms Challenge!
If you’ve done one of my ‘100 Challenges’ before, you know how this works. 100 reps of a new move, every day. And we’re going for the entire month of June!
Yeah…those arms are gonna feel it but TRUST ME and stick with it! They will feel soo strong by the end of the month! You’ll be ready to haul your overpacked suitcase around on your next vacay, carry all of your groceries inside in one trip, and show off your muscles in your favorite tank.
Are you excited? I’m excited!
Follow the 100 Arms Challenge in the app!
You can follow this challenge in the BODY By Blogilates app too, which is totally free btw! After you download the app, go to Workouts at the bottom of the screen, and then Challenges at the top! That’s where you’ll find the 100 Abs Challenge.
After you start the challenge, the app guides you through every move and tracks your progress. And marking each day complete is SO SATISFYING.
Comment here that you're IN!
Get those arms ready and let’s cheer each other on!
May 28, 2023
The Blogilates June 2023 Workout Calendar!!
Hey guys!
I know summer technically doesn’t start for a few more weeks, but I mean… we’re all kicking off the season this weekend, right?! Hopefully you have some fun, outdoor plans! Maybe a cookout or a beach day?!
Here’s a little something to add even more excitement to your weekend!
Your June Workout Calendar!!
Enjoy a weekend of fun and then GET READY for June!
How to follow the June Workout Calendar
Check the Blogilates YouTube playlists to find all of the videos you need for this month’s calendar!!
OR you can get everything you need (and more motivational tools!) on the BODY By Blogilates app! If you don’t have the app yet, it will make following along to this month’s workouts easier! You can access not only the calendar but all of the videos in one place. Find challenges and free programs like the Glow Up Sessions and the 200 Ab Challenge there too!
Now that you know where to find your workouts, here’s what you can expect each day of the June Workout Calendar. You ready?!!!
SUNDAY: Recovery
MONDAY: Total Body
TUESDAY: Abs
WEDNESDAY: Booty
THURSDAY: Total Body
FRIDAY: Arms
SATURDAY: Legs & Thighs
Do each video once (unless otherwise stated) and check off as you go! Most days will be 45 min max of exercise.
If you get the BODY By Blogilates app, your workout calendar and workouts will all be in one place! And it’s so fun and motivating to get that “Workout Complete” checkmark
Speaking of the app!
The Blogilates community is the BEST. So, I wanted to create a space where we could all feel a little more connected to each other! The social feature (in the most updated version of the app) is a place where you can share photos and/or text thoughts and comment on each other’s post. Think the good ol’ days of Instagram!
ANNNND 
We just added P
PCYCLE, a place where you can list and shop for gently used POPFLEX and Blogilates items! You can read more about it here!
If you're just getting started...
Or want to ease into working out, my Beginner’s Calendar is a great place to start! It’s a free 4-week program to get you stronger so that you can join in on the monthlies when you are ready.
Want MORE?! Take on a challenge
ICYMI we’ve been doing a new challenge every month of 2023! It’s been so much fun!
I’ll give you a little hint about what’s coming in June… 
Get it?!
Time to check in!
Tell me you’re IN for this month’s calendar!!
Vegetarian-Friendly Cookout Classics (That Aren’t Veggie Burgers)
Summer cookout season is officially here! Grilling out is a great way to get some fresh air, soak up the sunshine, and spend quality time with friends and family. Apart from making memories, one of the key aspects of a great cookout is the food. (We can’t lie, the menu really is the start of the show.)
We know that it can be super stressful to make sure everyone has something to eat. Especially if you’ve got vegetarian guests, but aren’t very familiar with plant-based cooking.
Don’t stress! We’ve got a roundup of vegetarian-friendly recipes that even the beginner can master (we promise). They’re not your average veggie burger, either; these recipes are flavorful and fresh. Even your meat-eating guests will want a taste!
Balsamic Garlic Grilled Mushroom Skewers
Image: Closet Cooking
We couldn’t make a vegetarian recipe roundup without including mushrooms, aka “the vegetarian meat”. We know not everyone is a fan of this vegetable, but this recipe has a bold, tangy flavor and is certainly a creative, more beginner-friendly take on the popular Grilled Portabello Mushroom “Burger.”
Grilled Mexican-Style Street Corn
Image: Lola’s Cocina
Bursting with smoky flavor and creamy melted cheese, this vegetarian appetizer can be made side-by-side with your grilled meat dishes. It’s like your classic grilled veggies, but ~elevated~. Support Latinx creators (and get delicious authentic flavor) by browsing their blog postings. We’ve included this traditional recipe from Lola’s Kitchen and a Grilled Corn Salad version from My Dominican Kitchen.
For a fully vegan corn salad recipe, try our Cilantro-Lime Corn Salad (just leave out the honey).
Whipped Cottage Cheese & Feta Dip With Marinated Tomatoes
Image: The Food Dolls
This Whipped Cottage Cheese Dip probably shouldn’t be your main meal, but with 20 grams of protein, we wouldn’t blame you if you ate nothing else. It’s a really quick and easy vegetarian appetizer or side to your cookout menu.
Caprese Pasta Salad
Image: A Southern Soul
I’ll admit, I was a pasta salad hater before I tried this recipe at a family picnic. It was one of the new recipes my mom tried out when I first went vegetarian. Her testimony is that it’s fool-proof, easy, and a definite crowd-pleaser! Plus, it’s more filling than traditional caprese, which means it won’t leave your non-meat-eating guests feeling hungry.
Kimchi Deviled Eggs
Image: Balance With Jess
Jessica Kwan of Balance With Jess describes this recipe as “a fun, Asian twist on a Southern classic”. Her recipe uses spicy kimchi to add an element of fun to your deviled egg dish. It’s something different that might just expand the palette of your less adventurous guests.
Lemon & Herb PotatoesView this post on Instagram
A post shared by Hetty Lui McKinnon 雷瑜 (@hettymckinnon)
This tutorial is one of those “just throw it all together and grill it until it looks done” kinds of recipes, which means you don’t have to spend time in the kitchen measuring and double-checking your recipe. (Trust us, we’ve been there and done that.) Author and food blogger Hetty McKinnon has mastered the art of plant-based cooking, and we are her humble students.
Cucumber Mint Salad
Image: Berry Sweet Life
This might sound like a weird combo, but trust the process. Fresh mint and cool cucumbers keep this recipe light while canned chickpeas add a heartiness that makes this the perfect main dish or satiating side.
Don’t forget dessert and drinks!Need a low-effort side dish to bring? Look no further than this Dairy-Free Coconut Fruit Dip.
Cool off at your summer cookout with this 2-Ingredient Watermelon Slushy, or go with a patriotic theme and serve these Layered Popsicles.
And finally, drinks! You can’t go wrong a mocktail like this Strawberry Sangria, or a Spicy Blood Orange Margarita.
What are your favorite vegetarian appetizers for summer gatherings?Let us know your favorites in the comments and tell us which recipes you’re most excited to try! If you’re a fellow plant-based foodie, send this to your friends and family to spread the love.
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