Tips for Using Pinterest

If you’ve seen my Pinterest account lately you’ll know that I’m completely obsessed with this visual bookmarking system. I’ve saved more than 5,000 activities, ideas, projects, and recipes to try. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by that figure, I feel invigorated and excited to tackle those pins. (Now to find the time!)

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(You may have also noticed I have over 15,400 followers. That figure completely boggles my mind. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO FOLLOWS ME!)

Since I’ve logged a whole lot of time on Pinterest (I’m trying not to think about just how much!), I’ve found several ways to find really awesome content on Pinterest. This isn’t a how-to use Pinterest post. Instead these are my tips for getting the most out of Pinterest.

Here’s what I suggest you do:

Tips for Using Pinterest

Follow people NOT individual boards.
When you find someone you wish to follow, click on their red “follow all” button, then unfollow individual boards that don’t interest you. That way when they create a new board it will automatically show up in your feed (and you can always unsubscribe from that board if it doesn’t interest you). If you don’t click that “follow all” button you’ll miss out on any future boards they create.

Add a Pin It bookmark to your browser.
Find something awesome on the internet that you want to go back to later? Pin it with the click of a button. (Find the instructions here.) I use this ALL THE TIME. (Hence the 5,000 pins.)

Tips for Using Pinterest

Find your favorite bloggers on Pinterest, follow them, then see who they’re following.
It’s a simple way to find great boards.

Tips for Using Pinterest

Pay attention to who is repining your pins.
That person may have a similar style or set of interests to you. What else are they pinning? You might love it. (And if you do, click “follow all!”)

Tips for Using Pinterest

Utilize secret boards.
These hidden Pinterest boards are great for planning surprises. You could make a gift list for the holidays or plan a special birthday party. I have a hidden board of project inspiration for the new house, which I’m excited about but not ready to share yet. The possibilities are endless. (Remember: you’re limited to just three hidden boards, so set them up carefully.)

Tips for Using Pinterest

Are you addicted to Pinterest? I’m excited to hear about your experience. What tips do you have to share?

Hello Growth Spurt

Just last week I lamented to David that our son might never be as chubby as our daughter when she was a baby. Silly me. Give it time…

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Our little guy has started his twelve week growth spurt. He and I are eating pretty much nonstop these days. Thankfully we’re still sleeping through the night (oh, cosleeping, how I love you!), but I’m feeling rather hobbitish with my second breakfasts and whatnot. I’m eating us out of house and home. Although I suppose I should say “we” since technically I’m eating for two. Wow, does this (not so) little guy have an appetite.

12 weeks old and growing fast

We’ll see you back here in a few days with a rather chubby baby. (Oh, I’m excited just thinking about that.) This mama loves–and feels rather proud of–those baby fat rolls. Babies are meant to be chunky, don’t you think?

May Wishlist: Workout Chic

I am now at eleven weeks postpartum. I’ve already lost thirty pounds, putting me at my pre-baby weight. But I still have a long way to go.

My next weight loss goal is twenty pounds, also known as the elusive pre-kids weight. I’m not gonna lie: I want to look twenty pounds lighter, but–more importantly–I also want to set a healthy example for my kids.

I love Vibram Five Fingers running shoes

To do this I’m continuing with my pseudo-Paleo diet that makes me feel freaking fantastic. I’m back at the mama-baby yoga class (that I can bring both kids to) and absolutely LOVE. I’m walking more and want to get back into a running routine (my FAVORITE exercise of all).

I just have one problem: while unpacking my non-maternity wardrobe I discovered that most of my workout clothes were worn through.

Since having kids I’ve found I need workout clothes that I’m excited to get into, since getting out the door to exercise is hard enough already.

So here is my workout wishlist for this month:

Workout clothes wishlist
Shown above: 1. GapFit gFast power colorblock capris (pin) | 2. Forme Jacket from lululemon athletica (pin) | 3. Elongate Burnout Long Sleeve from lululemon athletica (pin) | 4. GapFit Breathe elbow-sleeve T (pin) | 5. GapFit Motion racer tank (pin) | 6. Swagger Skirt Capri from Athleta (pin)
See more at my Retail Therapy Pinterest Board!

Some of the gear I already own or recently bought (on sale!). Some of the clothes are beyond my budget right now and remain firmly in the “wish” category.

Where do you buy affordable yoga and running clothes? My Target clothes didn’t last, so I’m looking for another spot that sells well-made, less expensive clothes. Think Gap Fit, not Lululemon.