Starting Week 17 on Nutrisystem

I'm starting my 5th month on Nutrisystem. I would have never believed I would like being on a diet plan for 16 weeks, never mind still LOVING it. What do I love about it? The convenience, the individually-packaged items so I don't over indulge, and the variety of delicious food choices. Oh, yes...and the fact that IT WORKS!! I really, really love that!!

My friends and I have started a pool walking club. We meet nearly every weekday morning, weather permitting, and walk laps for an hour or two before the pool gets crowded. It seems like we're all trying to lose weight...even the skinny gals, and we're a great support system for each other. Dieting in the summer can be extra challenging with all the parties, vacation getaways, and eating out so I'm trying to up my activity whenever possible. It doesn't feel like exercise when you're catching up with your friends and it's a refreshing workout. 

Photo credit: Nutrisystem

After our workout we're ready for lunch. Found this fabulous Tropical Gazpacho Recipe on The Leaf which hits the spot in this heat. 

I read water walking burns over 500 calories per hour! I hope I burned enough to move the scale downward this week ~

Another lb. gone for a 16-week total of 23.2 lbs. Even though I'd like to see more of a loss after working out so many hours this week, I've been told if you take weight off too quickly, you will likely gain it back {and then some} just as fast. I'm right in line with Nutrisystem's plan to lose an average of 1-2 lbs. per week and I can't ask for more than that. {Feeling grateful.} 

To save 40% off the cost of meals and receive 14 free shakes plus an additional $30 off visit nutrisystem.com/nsblog. For delicious, low-cal recipes and weight loss tips, check out https://leaf.nutrisystem.com and connect with Nutrisystem on Facebook and Twitter. 

My Journey Begins ~ Starting Weight ~ 180 
Week 1 ~ Lost 6.2 lbs. ~ Weight 173.8
Week 2 ~ Lost. 1.4 lbs. ~ Weight 172.4 ~ Total Loss 7.6 lbs. 
Week 3 ~ Lost .4 lbs. ~ Weight 172 ~ Total loss 8 lbs.
Week 4 ~ Lost 2.2 lbs. ~ Weight 169.8 ~ Total Loss 10.2 lbs.
Week 5 ~ Lost 1.8 lbs. ~ Weight 168 ~ Total Loss 12 lbs. 
Week 6 ~ Lost .2 lbs. ~ Weight 167.8 ~ Total Loss 12.2 lbs. 
Week 7 ~ Lost 2.2 lbs. ~ Weight 165.6 ~ Total Loss 14.4 lbs. 
Week 8 ~ Lost .6 lbs. ~ Weight 165 ~ Total Loss 15 lbs. 
Week 9 ~  Lost 1.2 lbs. ~ Weight 163.8 ~ Total Loss 16.2 lbs. 
Week 10 ~ Lost .4 lbs. ~ Weight 163.4 ~ Total Loss 16.6 lbs. 

Week 11 ~ Lost 2 lbs. ~ Weight 161.4 ~ Total Loss 18.6 lbs. 

Week 12 ~ Lost .6 lb. ~ Weight 160.8 ~ Total Loss 19.2 lbs. 

Week 13 ~ Lost 1 lb. ~ Weight 159.8 ~ Total Loss 20.2 lbs. 
Week 14 ~ Lost 1.6 lbs. ~ Weight 158.2 ~ Total Loss 21.8 lbs. 

Week 15 ~ Lost .4 lbs. ~ Weight 157.8 ~ Total Loss 22.2 lbs. 

Week 16 ~ Lost 1 lb. ~ Weight 156.8 ~ Total Loss 23.2 lbs. 

Until next week ...

Disclosure: In accordance with FTC regulations, I am disclosing as a Nutrisystem Nation Blogger, I am receiving Nutrisystem food in exchange for writing about my weight loss journey. Affiliate links were not used in this post nor was any other compensation received. All reviews are my own.

Summer Must-Haves

Checkout our newest finds and then head back here to enter to win a cool prize from our gift closet.

FOREO ISSA™ Sonic Electric Toothbrush combines an ultra-hygenic silicone brush with 10,000 pulses of sonic pulsations per minute. The non-porous silicone brush is resistant to bacteria buildup. The soft and gentle bristles make the ISSA perfect for everyone in the family even those with sensitive teeth. Available in 4 colors. Replacement heads available, need not be replaced for one year. $199 foreo.com

These waterproof VerveLoop+ Wireless Bluetooth Sports Earbuds by Motorola are light and comfortable and have everything the music-loving sports enthusiast could ask for. Features include clear HD stero sound, up to 9.5 hours of playtime, and an integrated mic. Google and siri compatible. $79.99 verve.life

John Masters™ Organics all-natural candles are handmade using GMO-free soy wax and pure essential oils. The Blood Orange and Vanilla Soy Candle reminds us of a cooling orange creamsicle on hot summer days. The candles are poured in reclaimed glass containers with cotton wicks, and include lid and gift box. A 6.5 oz. candle has an approximate burn time of 30 hours and retails for $24.99. johnmasters.com

Now I can't help thinking about Nutrisystem's delicious and decadent Orange Cream Bar dessert. Orange and vanilla ice cream is swirled together for a refreshing treat. You can indulge in this creamy delight without any guilt because it's only 90 calories! nutrisystem.com

Established in 1893, Limoneira® is the largest producers of lemons and avocados in the US. With more than 11,000 acres of agricultural production in California, the company also provides housing to over 200 farm workers and their families with substantial rental subsidies. Did you know lemons remove toxins from the body, freshen breath, strengthen the immune system, and reduce bloating? Read about this fascinating company at limoneira.com. 

For perfectly baked cookies, phyllo puffs, or baked brie use Baker's Advantage 13" Slider Cookie Sheet with Targets. Bakes evenly with no sticking and easy cleanup. Dishwasher and freezer safe. Regularly $18.09, it's on sale as of this writing for $14.50 at amazon.com

Gaea Greek Extra-Virgin Olive Oil has so many uses. From grilling vegetables or as an ingredient in a DIY beauty scrub. It's made from hand-picked Koroneiki olives and has a slightly fruity tast. SRP for a 17- oz. bottle is $8.99. Available nationwide. 

WEN® Summer Honey Peach Replenishing Mist revives hair between shampoos or use as a leave-in conditioner. Keep it in the cooler at the beach and use as a body mist to hydrate skin for a refreshing pick-me-up in the heat. This fabulous scent is available for a limited time only. A 6-oz. bottle retails for $40. chazdean.com

We love Mineral Fusion's SPF30 Brush-On Sun Defense. This transparent mineral powder sunscreen with built-in brush is small enough to fit in a wristlet or pocket and will not clog pores or spoil in the sun. Works on all skin tones. No more excuses not to put sunscreen on your face! Hypo-allergenic and free of gluten, parabens, phthalates, and artificial colors. $24.99 mineralfusion.com

Art Naturals Argan Oil Shampoo Hair Growth Therapy is formulated with Aloe Vera, Almond and Argan oil to naturally moisturize, volumize and repair hair. It leaves it silky soft while repairing split ends and strengthening follicle roots to promote new hair growth. A 16-oz bottle retails for $31 at artnaturals.com

The Gold 'N Hot 1875-Watt Professional Ultra-Lightweight Dryer with Tourmaline Conditioning is perfect for summer travel. Weighing less than 12-oz., it offers professional power with ionic technology to quickly dry hair. Features include 2 heat settings, 3 speeds, cool shot button, pic and concentrator attachments. $46.19 at sears.com.

Dermatologist-recommended Curel® Itch Defense® Instant Soothing Moisturizing Spray instantly cools, calms and soothes dry, itchy and sun-parched skin. Allergist tested and National Eczema Association Accepted. SRP: for a 6-oz. bottle is $8.99. Available at drugstores and mass retailers. 

Chic Giveaway! ~ One lucky reader will win the prize of their choice from our gift closet.

To Enter: email chicgiveaway@gmail.com and include the following:

• "Summer Must-Haves" in the subject line
• your first and last name
• complete mailing address
• twitter id 
• facebook name 

Sample tweet for your convenience ~

#Win the prize of your choice from @ChicLuxuries gift closet in the Summer Must-Haves #giveaway Details: ow.ly/rsfv302v2FU

If you're entering our giveaways, we ask that you follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

Contest ends 11:59 PM ET September 3, 2016.  Limit one entry per household. Winner will be notified by email and announced on our Winner's page. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize. Open to US Residents 18 years of age and older. We received no compensation from any brand featured in this post, nor were affiliate links used. 

Starting Week 16 on Nutrisystem

Next month marks Chic Luxuries 5th birthday. When I think back on all the fun ~ interviewing Olympic Gold Champions, appearing on television to showcase our favorite finds, receiving countless emails from happy readers who won a prize ~ it's been a wonderful journey. For me personally, though, my experience with Nutrisystem has, far and away, been the best thing that has happened to me as an editor. 

I have struggled most of my life with my weight. I had success several years ago losing the extra pounds, but gained it all back in the last 3 years and was finding it impossible to take it off again...until now. Although I still have a long way to go, I am forever grateful to this company and the #NSNation team for their support and believing in me. There's something about sharing one's journey publicly that helps keep you in check. If you're on this plan, I encourage you to share your journey through pictures on your social sites and tag #NSNation ~ whether it's the food you're eating, your scale victories, or pictures of yourself ~ I think you'll find it will help keep you accountable, and the support from others on the plan will be a huge asset.

I've been increasing my activity by walking around the neighborhood and in the pool, and biking to our beautiful little beach. Now that we have kayaks available at the bay, I'm planning to add this activity to my exercise routine as well. Despite the increase in exercise, I had a rough time most of this week with steady weight gain and stomach problems after eating out on Monday and Tuesday. I pinpointed it to a histamine reaction ~ which can cause weight gain ~ to, of all things, lemon in the water! Crossing my fingers that I had enough time to work it off before weigh-in day. Here we go...

Whew! Managed to lose the extra lb. I gained during the week and end with a .4 lb. loss. The fact that I've been able to lose over 20 lbs. having a histamine intolerance is pretty remarkable and says a lot, not only about my determination to get to a healthy weight, but more about the Nutrisystem plan and the variety of menu choices it offers. It may take me a little longer than others, but I will reach my goal with Nutrisystem because "I can't" is no longer in my vocabulary when it comes to weight loss ~ 22.2 lbs. and counting! ☺

To save 40% off the cost of meals and receive 14 free shakes plus an additional $30 off visit nutrisystem.com/nsblog. For delicious, low-cal recipes and weight loss tips, check out https://leaf.nutrisystem.com and connect with Nutrisystem on Facebook and Twitter. 

My Journey Begins ~ Starting Weight ~ 180 
Week 1 ~ Lost 6.2 lbs. ~ Weight 173.8
Week 2 ~ Lost. 1.4 lbs. ~ Weight 172.4 ~ Total Loss 7.6 lbs. 
Week 3 ~ Lost .4 lbs. ~ Weight 172 ~ Total loss 8 lbs.
Week 4 ~ Lost 2.2 lbs. ~ Weight 169.8 ~ Total Loss 10.2 lbs.
Week 5 ~ Lost 1.8 lbs. ~ Weight 168 ~ Total Loss 12 lbs. 
Week 6 ~ Lost .2 lbs. ~ Weight 167.8 ~ Total Loss 12.2 lbs. 
Week 7 ~ Lost 2.2 lbs. ~ Weight 165.6 ~ Total Loss 14.4 lbs. 
Week 8 ~ Lost .6 lbs. ~ Weight 165 ~ Total Loss 15 lbs. 
Week 9 ~  Lost 1.2 lbs. ~ Weight 163.8 ~ Total Loss 16.2 lbs. 
Week 10 ~ Lost .4 lbs. ~ Weight 163.4 ~ Total Loss 16.6 lbs. 

Week 11 ~ Lost 2 lbs. ~ Weight 161.4 ~ Total Loss 18.6 lbs. 

Week 12 ~ Lost .6 lb. ~ Weight 160.8 ~ Total Loss 19.2 lbs. 

Week 13 ~ Lost 1 lb. ~ Weight 159.8 ~ Total Loss 20.2 lbs. 
Week 14 ~ Lost 1.6 lbs. ~ Weight 158.2 ~ Total Loss 21.8 lbs. 

Week 15 ~ Lost .4 lbs. ~ Weight 157.8 ~ Total Loss 22.2 lbs. 

Until next week ...

Disclosure: In accordance with FTC regulations, I am disclosing as a Nutrisystem Nation Blogger, I am receiving Nutrisystem food in exchange for writing about my weight loss journey. Affiliate links were not used in this post nor was any other compensation received. All reviews are my own.

Chic Luxuries is turning 5!

♫ ♪ Happy birthday to us! ♫

Chic Luxuries is turning 5 on August 19, 2016 and we're celebrating with a giveaway!

Chic Giveaway! ~ One lucky reader will win the prize of their choice from our gift closet. 

To Enter: email chicgiveaway@gmail.com and include the following:

• "Happy Birthday" in the subject line
• your first and last name
• complete mailing address
• twitter id 
• facebook name 

Sample tweet for your convenience ~

Enter to #win the prize of your choice from their gift closet in @ChicLuxuries Birthday #giveaway Details: ow.ly/otuZ3028YK4

If you're entering our giveaways, we ask that you follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

Contest ends 11:59 PM ET August 19, 2016.  Limit one entry per household. Winner will be notified by email and announced on our Winner's page. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize. Open to US Residents 18 years of age and older. 

Starting Week 15 on Nutrisystem

Losing weight feels GREAT! I wholeheartedly encourage anyone who has been struggling with stubborn lbs. to give Nutrisystem a try. I'm walking more, breathing better, and experiencing an overall feeling of well-being. This in itself is priceless, but the weight loss is the icing on the Red Velvet Whoopie Pie! ☺

Nutrisystem Red Velvet Whoopie Pie ~ 120 calories

Yes, you can have cake on Nutrisystem...and pancakes, ice cream, waffles, mac 'n cheese...and, of course, pizza! I've learned you don't have to deprive yourself, and it really is all about "everything in moderation". This adventure has been filled with lessons and changes. Three months ago, I cringed at the thought of stepping on a scale, now I look forward to seeing the results every morning. I know, I know, I'm not supposed to weigh myself each day, but I do, or at least every other day. It reminds me to keep my water intake up. Having edema, I retain a lot of water as it is and when I see the scale creep up, it's often because I'm not hydrating enough. 

While I'm on the subject of staying hydrated, here's a scrumptious recipe for super-hydrating Cucumber Dill Salad from The Leaf, and best of all, it's unlimited on the plan ~

Time to check in with my newest "friend", the scale ~

♪ So long, farewell, auf wiedersehen, good-bye ♪ to another 1.6 lbs. for a 14-week total of 21.8 lbs. ~ YAY!! Pretty fantastic considering the party on the 4th was filled with delicious appetizers and desserts. With more get-togethers on the calendar this week, I feel like my willpower is working overtime, but I've come too far to give into temptation now. At least that's what I keep telling myself, and... so far, so good. ☺

To save 40% off the cost of meals and receive 14 free shakes plus an additional $30 off visit nutrisystem.com/nsblog. For delicious, low-cal recipes and weight loss tips, check out https://leaf.nutrisystem.com and connect with Nutrisystem on Facebook and Twitter. 

My Journey Begins ~ Starting Weight ~ 180 
Week 1 ~ Lost 6.2 lbs. ~ Weight 173.8
Week 2 ~ Lost. 1.4 lbs. ~ Weight 172.4 ~ Total Loss 7.6 lbs. 
Week 3 ~ Lost .4 lbs. ~ Weight 172 ~ Total loss 8 lbs.
Week 4 ~ Lost 2.2 lbs. ~ Weight 169.8 ~ Total Loss 10.2 lbs.
Week 5 ~ Lost 1.8 lbs. ~ Weight 168 ~ Total Loss 12 lbs. 
Week 6 ~ Lost .2 lbs. ~ Weight 167.8 ~ Total Loss 12.2 lbs. 
Week 7 ~ Lost 2.2 lbs. ~ Weight 165.6 ~ Total Loss 14.4 lbs. 
Week 8 ~ Lost .6 lbs. ~ Weight 165 ~ Total Loss 15 lbs. 
Week 9 ~  Lost 1.2 lbs. ~ Weight 163.8 ~ Total Loss 16.2 lbs. 
Week 10 ~ Lost .4 lbs. ~ Weight 163.4 ~ Total Loss 16.6 lbs. 

Week 11 ~ Lost 2 lbs. ~ Weight 161.4 ~ Total Loss 18.6 lbs. 

Week 12 ~ Lost .6 lb. ~ Weight 160.8 ~ Total Loss 19.2 lbs. 

Week 13 ~ Lost 1 lb. ~ Weight 159.8 ~ Total Loss 20.2 lbs. 
Week 14 ~ Lost 1.6 lbs. ~ Weight 158.2 ~ Total Loss 21.8 lbs. 

Until next week...

Disclosure: In accordance with FTC regulations, I am disclosing as a Nutrisystem Nation Blogger, I am receiving Nutrisystem food in exchange for writing about my weight loss journey. Affiliate links were not used in this post nor was any other compensation received. All reviews are my own.

Summer's Hottest Finds

The Pegasus Convertible Wheeled Backpack by ecbc is a summer travel essential. Superior quality and innovative features include a portable power pack and the checkpoint-friendly ecbc FastPass® system ~ simply unzip, lay flat and send entire bag through airport scanner. Made of water-resistant Kodra nylon, it has a snapback ID tag, self-repairing zippers, multiple compartments, concealed padded shoulder straps, and a water bottle holder. Whether backpacking, jet-setting cross country, or hitting the beach for a weekend getaway, it will become your favorite travel companion. Available in linen, black or green. $399.99 ec-bc.com

The Amopé Pedi perfect™ Wet & Dry Rechargeable Foot File is the first electronic foot file that can be used on wet or dry skin. We think this little gadget is the greatest invention since ice cream sandwiches. It smooths rough spots, removes callouses effortlessly and painlessly, and leaves skin baby soft. The rechargeable foot file has two speeds ~ gentle and high. It's a summer must have that you will use year round. SRP: $64.93 wetanddrypedi.amope.com

mē™ chic compact permanent hair removal device can be used on both your face and body and is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. Using FDA-cleared and patented Elos technology, the chic is the only hair reduction device that can be used on all skin tones and the widest range of hair color. Lightweight and portable, use at home or away once a week for 7 weeks to permanently disable the hair follicle. $199 at mepower.com

L'Occitane's Lavender Relaxing Candle fills the air with the heavenly scent of summer in Provence as it takes your senses on a tranquil journey. Crafted with lavender sourced from farmers' cooperatives in Haute-Provence. Each 3.5 oz. jar candle with lid has a burn time of approximately 23 hours. $25 loccitane.com

Philip B® Katira Hair Masque is an oil-free treatment to smooth frizz-prone hair. Apply masque to hair, comb thru, and leave on until it dries to a hard shell, then rinse. For a deeper treatment wrap hair in a hot towel after applying masque. Softens dry strands and calms unruly summer hair. Safe for color and keratin-treated hair. $44 philipb.com

Love, Cookie bakes up incredibly delicious cookies from scratch in their family-owned bakery. Using the finest ingredients and delivering that fresh from the oven taste right to your door. The Almond Toffee Crunch is by far THE BEST packaged cookie we have ever tasted. They can be ordered online in packs of four 3.5-oz boxes and you can create your own variety pack. A pack of 4 boxes retails for $19.99 at lovecookie.com

Pike Road 2015 Pinot Gris is made from 100% hand-picked fruit from Willamette Valley, Oregon. With flavors of crisp pear and tantalizing citrus fruits with a touch of spice, it makes a delightful addition to summer cocktail parties. A fantastic value at $15. pikeroadwines.com

The chic Uno Alla Volta Fuchsia Suede Bucket Bag is lovingly handcrafted in a striking color combination. The buttery soft suede bag is roomy enough to hold a tablet and is accented with a mustard tassle and a braided black leather handle. A certificate of authenticity is included. $248 unoallavolta.com

From tool sheds to bicycles and kayaks, Master Lock's Bluetooth Smart Padlock will secure your valuables without the need for a key. Lock and unlock the padlock via your smartphone without having to remember a combination. Ability to remotely unlock the padlock to allow easy access to guests without providing a key.  Features include a long shackle, tamper alerts, and activity log. It's model #4401DLH and retails for $89. An indoor smart padlock is also available for $70. masterlockbluetoothsmart.com

While opening this C.O.Bigelow Rose Absolute Essential Oil for the first time, it accidentally tipped over and spilled over my hand. Earlier in the day I had burned the same hand while testing out a flat iron. The skin had been red, inflamed and was already blistering. Amazingly, after I spilled the oil, I had no pain whatsoever. Talk about a happy accident! When I'm not spilling it, ☺ I add a couple of drops to my electric diffuser just before bed. It delightfully scents the room and calms the senses before drifting off to sleep. $52 at bigelowchemists.com

Created by board-certified Dermatologist, Dr. Debra Jaliman, Sea Radiance Rapid Eye Lift is made with Sea Elixir which is 100x more powerful in antioxidants than Vitamin C. Sea Radiance immediately smoothes fine lines and dimenishes the appearance of crows feet. It replenishes the collagen in skin with continued use to reverse the signs of aging. $79 searadiance.com

Katy Perry's Mad Love is a light, fruity-floral fragrance that's ideal for summer. This fun-loving parfum is a blend of jasmine, pink grapefruit, peony, and strawberry with a subtle touch of musk and sandalwood. A 1-oz bottle is 29.98 at kohls.com

Chic Giveaway! ~ One lucky reader will win the prize of their choice from our gift closet.

To Enter: email chicgiveaway@gmail.com and include the following:

• "Summer's Hottest Finds" in the subject line
• your first and last name
• complete mailing address
• twitter id 
• facebook name 

Sample tweet for your convenience ~

#Win the prize of your choice from @ChicLuxuries gift closet in the Summer's Hottest Finds #giveaway Details: ow.ly/8KBe3023Mvo

If you're entering our giveaways, we ask that you follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

Contest ends 11:59 PM ET August 21, 2016.  Limit one entry per household. Winner will be notified by email and announced on our Winner's page. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize. Open to US Residents 18 years of age and older. We received no compensation from any brand featured in this post, nor were affiliate links used.