Last week one of my friends posted the pictures below on her Facebook page showing one of her favorite snack/breakfasts.  She is a busy mom of two beautiful little girls and also a healthy eater in general but understands how tough it is to get good stuff in your diet that isn’t expensive or too time consuming.  I asked her permission to share the photos and the recipe here with you and she gladly consented.  She did mention she found the recipe originally on Pinterest but has adapted it a bit to suit their needs.  I can see how you could easily do the same by adding your preference of veggies, cheese or seasonings.

Patty’s Easy Egg White Breakfast Poppers:

Liquid Egg Whites
Organic Baby Spinach
Organic Grape Tomatoes
Shredded Colby Cheese
Salt & Pepper 

Spray a mini muffin pan with non stick spray.  Fill cups 1/2 full with veggies of your choice.  (She used 2-3 baby spinach leaves & 2 grape tomato halves).  Finish filling muffin cup with liquid egg whites.  Sprinkle tops with shredded cheese and sprinkle with salt and pepper and any other seasonings that you prefer.  

Bake at 375 degrees for 10-15 minutes or until egg is set and tops are lightly browned.  Remove from oven and let cool a couple of minutes before removing from muffin tin.  Store in airtight container in refrigerator.  Reheat for 45-60 seconds in the microwave. 

NOTE:  I think great additions would be some precooked and crumbled/diced turkey sausage or turkey bacon.  Perhaps diced sauteed onions, bell peppers or mushrooms.  Shredded seasoned chicken, shredded beef and a bit of taco seasoning for a little different flavor as well.  These are a great easy to adapt and low calorie yet filling snack or breakfast option.

As a larger woman, I am always on the lookout for affordable plus size clothing.  As summer is officially here, it’s even more important to me to find stuff that I can wear, feel good about wearing, and afford.  Since I had my hysterectomy this year, I have really been working on my health.  My weight has fluctuated, and while I am on the way down, I need to feel better about my appearance.  So, I went on the search for a few wardrobe pieces that would accent my existing summer wardrobe, make me feel good about myself, and stay cool this year.

Affordable Plus Size Clothing For Summer

This post contains affiliate links.

Let me start by saying that I am probably not the best person out there for practicing what I preach.  I tend to live my life in t-shirts and frumpy lounge pants as I work from home.  Mostly due to my social anxiety issues from past abuse, but now that I am getting past that more every day, I find I am trying to dress nicer for our weekly outings.

I am also purging more of my older clothing that just shouldn’t see the light of day.  Let’s face it, we all have a t-shirt or leggings that should be thrown away due to stains, tears, or holes.  I’ve been on a mission to find affordable plus size clothing to replace what I need to throw away that is both comfortable for daily wear working from home and functional for wearing outside the house.  So, I am sharing a few of my favorites with you.

Legging Army Leggings:  I have been a fan of leggings for a few years now, and while they aren’t a traditional pant, they are ideal for my work at home wardrobe.  Additionally, when worn with the right shirts, they really are great for wearing everywhere.  As I whittle away at my weight and continue losing weight, leggings are a great investment that will adapt to my smaller size easily.  I found this brand through a friend, and I fell in love because they are just as soft as other popular brands, at a much lower cost.  They also offer a plus size that is still super affordable.  There are tons of colors and styles.  They offer kids sizes, regular sizes, plus sizes, and even joggers with the ankle band and drawstring waist.  I signed up as an affiliate to save on my purchases, and yes, if you input my name (Katie Hale) when you purchase I earn a commission.

Prices: Kids are $14 each, One-Size that fits up to size 12/14 – $16 for most leggings and $20 for joggers.  Plus-Size fits 14-20 (and some larger sizes – it all depends on proportions) – $18.  Shipping is free on all domestic orders and varies on international orders.

My favorites:

Shown with my favorite black tunic shirt is the Laced In Pink Legging. They are black and white with a faint pink accent.  Super easy to style with nearly any shirt color, and super comfy.  Shown with the gray shirt are the True Blue Leggings.  These are super bright and fun, but I love them!  They are definitely easy to wear, and match with gray, white, black, or that specific blue if you can locate a shirt you love that matches.

Other favorites I own:  Smoke & Mirrors, Black, White Allusion, Boho Gypsy, Vintage, and Static Waves.  I like more traditional or not as vibrant colors, but have some of the Candy Skulls leggings on order.

These leggings are nice quality, and the material is not only that super soft but thick enough that they aren’t see-through.  The lighter shades may be prone to showing through easier, but typically I haven’t had any problems with them being too thin or see-through.  I wear them with t-shirts for everyday wear, under tunics, and dresses, and even to workout.  They are super breathable, so they work well year round.  For the colors that aren’t available in Capri, you can easily roll or fold them and create your own Capri style.

Savings Tip:  To get 2 pairs of leggings for $29.99 shipped, sign up for an affiliate account using my name (Katie Hale) as your referral.  That’s a few dollars savings, and gives you the chance to have a totally free affiliate account you can earn from. Note:  Affiliates have no quota or required orders.  So, you can use this deal once and that be it, or you can continue buying and use your affiliate discount in the future.  You could also set up your website and create some income from this.

Lane Bryant:  I love Lane Bryant, but they can be a bit higher in price than some places I shop.  That said, as I go through what is in my closet now, I am finding a theme.  The t-shirts and blouses that I purchased from Lane Bryant 3 and 4 years ago are still in great condition.  The ones I grabbed at discount retailers have more holes and fraying.  So, you do get what you pay for, and in this case, paying more for a t-shirt that holds shape, is flattering, and will last a few years of regular use is definitely still in my affordable plus size clothing list.  They also regularly run sales on their t-shirts for 25%-50% off, so if they aren’t a price point you like right now, keep checking.

My favorites: 

• Essential Ribbed Tank – $19.99 – Love the looser fit and longer hem.
• Supima Model Scoop Tee -$24.95 – Love the longer hem and looser fit.
• V-Neck Tee – $24.95 – Love the longer hem, loose fit, and longer but still short sleeves.
• Pocket Tee – $24.95-$29.95 – Love the loose fit and heathered options on some colors.  Shorter hem, but still super cute.

While I love many of the dresses, pants, and shorts that Lane Bryant offers, they usually aren’t in my price range for being affordable plus size clothing unless on sale.  I encourage you to check out their sales when shopping at Lane Bryant for those hidden steals!

Savings Tip:  Choose site to store shipping and save $7-$15 on shipping costs.  They have an easy to use store locator on site to help you find the nearest location to your city.  Also, once you make your first purchase, you’ll start receiving tons of emails and mailed cards with discounts on future purchases at the store you have your purchase shipped to, as well as for future online purchases.  I love getting their $25 off $75 purchase coupons!

Target:  I’ve been a fan of the various Target clothing brands for years, but rarely shopped for them as I didn’t have one close by to try things on.  While I love the styles, and they tend to be in my affordable price range, I use to find the sizing to be a bit small on my body.  Now that they have launched a larger plus size selection, they finally seem to have the sizing right.  Everything I have grabbed in the last two years has been spot on.

My Favorites: 

• Ava & Viv Plus Size Dark Wash Skinny Jeans – $29.99 – Tighter fit with a darker wash is great for casual and dressy.
• Women’s Plus Size Slim Boyfriend Denim – $34.99 – Looser fit and comfy casual look.
• Ava & Viv Women’s Plus Size Distressed Jegging – $34.99 – This is a fun casual look and super soft jegging/jean option.
• Ava & Viv Women’s Tie-Dyed Plus Size Swing Dress – $29.99 – Fun and comfy summer look
• Ava & Viv Women’s Plus Size Sleeveless Belted Denim Dress – $29.99  – A great classic look that can be dressed up or down with accent belt, scarf, jewelry, and sandals or a cardigan.
• Plus Size Embellished Cami – $9.00 – Perfect for layering under other shirts for a dressier look with the embellished top.
• Ava & Viv Women’s Plus Size Printed Tee – $9.00 – Fun and casual tee that is a great pair with jeans or shorts.
• Ava & Viv Plus Size Dark Wash Bermuda Short – $24.99 – These are great for casual wear or to dress up a bit.  Perfect length to cover trouble areas, and the darker color is ideal for any look.

Savings Tip:  Download the Target Cartwheel App and look for clothing discounts and coupons toward clothing purchases each week.  I’ve found many instances of 25%-50% off specific brands, items, or styles that helped when I shopped in the store.  Also, don’t forget to check the clearance section online.  I find a ton of great deals there that aren’t available in my local store any longer.  Especially extended sizes!

If you are looking for truly affordable plus size clothing for this summer, I hope this list of my personal favorites helps you.  While I tend to stick with pretty classic looks and styles, there are tons of great options full of color, style, and excitement in plus size fashion.  I love knowing that so many retailers are really stepping outside the box and giving us a chance to flaunt our looks with pride instead of hiding behind ugly or ill-fitting clothing.

More Affordable Plus Size Clothing Tips:

• Affordable Plus Size Fashions For Spring
• How To Find Affordable & Flattering Plus Size Fashion
• How To Build A Plus Size Wardrobe For $150 Or Less

I am always a fan of affordable clothing.  Especially when they are plus size fashions that can fit my body as it changes during my health journey.  Since I have fluctuated in weight a lot before and after my hysterectomy, I especially love styles that flatter and camolflauge my problem areas.  My friend Kimberly was nice enough to assemble this great capsule wardrobe for me of plus size fashions with all pieces under $50 at Target!  Most of these styles are actually under $30!

Affordable Plus Size Fashions For Spring

When I think about investing in any new plus size fashions for my wardrobe, I am always on a budget.  I usually want to find pieces that not only flatter my figure, but also fit into my limted budget.  I am also always looking for pieces that are cute and fun without making me feel like I grabbed something out of my grandma’s closet.  No offence, but my Granny didn’t exactly wear what I consider my style.

There are some super cute options in this grouping that include a feminine and casual denim dress that pairs easily with your favorite scarf, jewelry, and bag.  I love the cute shorts included, and of course the shoes – I am a shoe girl and these look like they would be comfy and flexible in my existing wardrobe.

I am a bit more self-concious about my larger arms, so I prefer the shirts that have longer sleeves, but I can easily see myself grabbing one of these tanks to go under a simple cardigan or sweater.  I think my favorite look is in the second picture above featuring the white ankle pants and tab sleeve top.  It just makes me feel like summer casual is just around the corner.

I love wearing shorts, and these looks make me excited for Spring and Summer temperatures.  Plus size fashions often make shorts feel frumpy and ulgy, or simply ill fitting.  I love the option of the longer bermuda style denim shorts, or the shorter striped casual shorts.  Both are great options that can be dressed up or down.

For all of these great plus size fashions, you can easily check the links below to order them online at Target.  Mix and match these looks to build acute Spring and summer wardrobe that is affordable and makes you feel feminine and attractive.

1. Sami and Dani Denim Dress — $49.99
2. White Ankle Pants — $29.99
3. Dollhouse Boyfriend Jeans — $29.99
4. Ava & Viv Bermuda Shorts — $24.99
5. Lily Star Striped Shorts — $21.99
6. Perch Printed Top — $29.99
7. Zac & Rachel Tab Sleeve Top — $29.99
8. Perch Hi Low Floral Tank — $29.99
9. Lily Star Button Up Tank — $21.99
10. Merona Emma Leather Flats — $39.99
11. Gena Huarache Sandals — $24.99
12. Sylvia Damask Print Scarf — $14.99
13. Bueno Floral Tote — $24.99
14. Merona Crossbody Handbag — $29.99

If these plus size fashions are out of your budget range, take inspiration from Kimberly’s great ideas in this post to build your own lower cost wardrobe with fun and unique pieces that compliment each other.  Even if you are plus size, you don’t have to avoid color and fashion trends in your wardrobe!

Check out our other great plus size fashion tips!

• Plus Size Fashions – Patterns Are Okay
• How To Wear Trendy Fashion On A Budget
• How To Find Affordable & Flattering Plus Size Fashions

Calling all LEGO fans from  beginners to Master Builders! I have pulled together  a collections of 12 Must Have LEGO Items. From T-shirts to Video games and everything in between these are some of the coolest LEGO themed items I could find for your brick addicted kid.  The open ended play of LEGO is a universal hit with boys and girls alike and you will want to add a few of these to your Christmas list.

 12 MUST HAVE LEGO ITEMS

1.  1.LEGO Bricks & More–  A big bucket of basic Lego pieces is perfect for the kid just starting his LEGO collection or one who already seems to have it all.
2. 2.LEGO Building Plate– Building plates are a must have for all types of LEGO building and if you have a fan who has everything this is always a welcome addition to any set.
3. 3.LEGO Ideas Book- I love the open ended play of LEGO but sometimes you need a little inspiration and this book is a great place to start.
4. 4.LEGO Movie XBox– Let them play along with the characters from one of their favorite movies in this LEGO Movie video game.
5. 5.LEGO Creationary Game– A new way to play with LEGOS the object of this game is to build and play to make creations in one of four exciting categories.
6. 6.LEGO Movie DVD– If you have not yet picked up The LEGO Movie for your little brick builder don’t forget to add this to your list.
7. 7.LEGO Advent Calender– Count down the days to Christmas with this super fun advent calender, with a different LEGO themed item to open each day.
8. 8.LEGO Emmet Watch–  The star of the LEGO movie ready to be on hand to tell time and keep your kid stylin’.
9. 9.Darth Vader Minifigure Alarm Clock– Use the force when waking up with this fun Darth Vader alarm clock.
10. 10.LEGO Cardmaking Kit– I love this different way to get your childs mind going but still in the LEGO theme.
11. LEGO Movie T Shirt– Let them show their LEGO pride loud and proud on a t shirt.
12. LEGO Sheet Set– No LEGO themed room would be complete without these cute minifig sheets.

Make sure your Lego fan is happy this holiday season with one or all of these great deals!

**Looking for some LEGO’s used for building? See some amazing Lego Building Games for your kids here!**

 

• Frozen Fruit.  Melons, Grapes, Berries and even Bananas freeze beautifully and are a satisfying choice for far fewer calories than traditional frozen confections.  Frozen fruit also takes longer to eat which allows the time your body needs to fill satisfied with less. 
•   Low Fat Greek Yogurt with fresh fruit or honey mixed in.  The protein and calcium in Greek Yogurt is great nutritionally and buying larger containers of plain or vanilla and adding your own fresh fruit mix in’s make it affordable on almost any budget.  Frozen or fresh blueberries are a favorite mix in our house.
•  Roasted Tomatoes and Basil.  Slice a fresh ripened tomato, drizzle with 1 teaspoon of olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper and fresh basil and put under broiler for 5-6 minutes.
• Homemade Frappuccino.  Blend together 1 cup chilled coffee, 1 Cup Ice, ½ Cup Skim Milk, 1 Tablespoon Sugar Substitute and 1 Tablespoon Sugar Free Chocolate or Caramel syrup.  Easily substitute a favorite decaffeinated or flavored coffee blend for a different taste.
• Graham Crackers & Peanut Butter.  Spread 1 Teaspoon Peanut Butter on 3 Graham Crackers for an easy snack that is high in protein and satisfies the craving for a sweet treat.
• Air Popped Popcorn.  Plain, sprinkled with Cumin & Paprika or even a little chili powder air popped popcorn is very versatile, cheap and easy to dress up without added calories.
• Baked Apples.  Slice a Granny Smith apple, and place in microwave safe bowl.  Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar (made with sugar substitute) and 1 teaspoon margarine.  Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until apple is tender.
•  Egg White & Veggie Omelet.  Using egg whites only reduces the fat, calories and cholesterol.  Adding ½ cup of your favorite fresh veggies to 2 egg whites and 1 tablespoon low fat cheese creates a tasty and healthy high protein snack.
• String Cheese and Grapes.  Not just for school lunch boxes this low fat and high protein snack is also rich in calcium and comes already portioned to help with calorie intake control.  Grapes compliment it well for an extra pick me up.
• Dry Cereal.  Most dry cereals can be portioned by the ½ cup into 100-150 calorie portions.  If you have a sweet tooth this is a perfect substitute that is easy to control quantities as long as you portion ahead of time.  {I love fruit loops and this is just enough to satisfy the craving!}