Chappo Chats Volume 5
It’s been quite a bit since I’ve done an installment of CHAPPO CHATS but let’s get on into it! Y’all submitted a long list of “Ask Me Anything” kinda questions and we’ll dive on into them below….. I love these because they’re off the cuff, span the gamut, and allow me to chat thru alllll the topics…..
How long did it take to make money starting with your blog. Starting one this year.
Great question and Congrats! I started s e e r s u c k e r + s a d d l e s back in April 2012 while I was still in the Medical Sales industry….I would say around 2013 brands started to take notice but I was only working with them in a trade capacity because to me that was a dream come true in and of itself (newcomers, know your worth, and ask for it). Around late 2013 early 2014, on the heels of a very difficult divorce, newly single mom status, and in a very “You only live once” headspace, I told myself to ‘sh*t or get off the pot,” left my corporate job that no longer fueled any passion whatsoever, and took a big risky leap. Keep in mind, on paper, financially s + s wasn’t where I needed it to be…let’s say it was 75% there but I K N E W if I could devote all my time, energy, and passion into this space that fueled such a sense of creativity and fulfillment, I could do it. And well here we are ten years later. Take the jump. Even if all your ducks aren't in a row….just leap.
Do you ever argue with Johnny or your kids?
We sure as shit do….doesn’t every family? Our family scuffles are pretty comical. I would say Johnny and I bicker when we do disagree….and we can always feel them coming on…it’s been interesting to see how our conflict resolution has evolved and improved during the course of our 7 year marriage. Listen neither of us are going anywhere so we spat real quickly and then realize one of us (or both) is being ridiculous, we’re stuck with each other, and get over it pretty quickly. Thank GOODNESS he is not a grudge holder whatsoever because I tend to be but he’s helped me immensely realize that shit is foolish and to get over it. As far as the girls (Calvin doesn’t qualify for family spats yet)…..chase and I spat really quickly, one of us cracks a joke, then we are over it….cam and I are equally as stubborn so we tend to go to our corners for a timeout then one of us will crack a joke or extend a hug and we’re back—the girls and I have a secret hand hold that we do to signal “olive branch” and it tends to work 9 times out of 10. It’s funny, the dynamic is very similar to mine as a kid….Nonnie would do all the disagreements with us girls and if we stepped too far out of line, you’d hear my dad very calmly chime in (he would say “Beth” he always called me Bud so I knew he meant business) and we would shut our traps immediately. Same holds true in our household.
Clear Purses: For Arena Use Only or lame to use on the regular?
Oh I don’t think it’s lame whatsoever to carry whenever and wherever…..I love MY CLEAR BAG.
What were the books you got to help Calvin with reading?
Super old school but I swear these RICHARD SCARRY picture books were a huge helper!! Now listen, you’re gonna fall asleep about halfway through them because they’re SO DAMN DETAILED, but they helped Calvin immensely….another beginner staple—BOB BOOKS. Man I miss those days.
Do you still do Modere Collagen? Do you find it more effective than powder versions?
I didn’t renew my Modere subscription out of sheer laziness and curiosity surrounding other collagens. I ordered THIS ONE and have been using for a few weeks and liking it so far…I like the flavor better. I truly don’t have any thoughts scientific or anecdotal around liquid vs powder.
Best Everyday Face Cleanser and Moisturizer.
I’ve been getting a little more adventurous with my skincare and breaking away from my normal Beautycounter finds…not because I don’t love BC…I do and always will, but variety is the spice of life, eh? With that in mind, I’ve been loving this Cleanser, this Cleanser, this Moisturizer, and this Moisturizer….take your pick…they’re all great.
What’s a designer bag that’s great for everyday?
I love the structure, size, colors and classic design of the YSL Solferino bag—and it’s not played out which I like…now if you’re looking for a big daddy bag I do L O V E the DIOR BOOK BAG….it’s truly such a gorgeous tote and holds its structure…classic with a twist.
Your Playlist for a month or so ago?
I was on a major 80s/90s (read: middle school & high school) love ballad/throwback jam kick and tossed some of my faves into this LOVE BALLAD PLAYLIST. Prepare to be transported back to the school gym for that middle school dance.
Why did you want to do a natural birth with Calvin? I am 37 weeks pregnant with # 2 and the nerves are real!
Oh how EXCITING—-so so close—Congratulations! You know, I think because I had epidurals with Chase and Cam and knowing it would be my last pregnancy, I wanted to attempt the natural route. I had quite a few close girlfriends (Mckayla, Ashley, Emily, Audrey) who had delivered naturally and helped assure me I could do it. I took it pretty seriously…listened to Hypnobirth Audiobooks, hired a doula, took the classes associated with it……I am so so thankful I was able to deliver Calvin naturally as I know birth plans can go south quickly…….Did it hurt….it sure as shit did. Good Lord did it. Was I nervous? Sure was. Did I want to throw in the towel at the 11th hour…no doubt. Would I do it again….absolutely. Wishing you a smooth and safe delivery and man if I could relive that day I’d do it over and over and over again…….If you’d like to take a trip down memory lane, here is my Calvin Birth Story Post….and that video….gets me e v e r y t i m e.
The LED Mask has a lot of negative reviews re: strap, weight, etc….any reassurances?
My only reassurance is that it has done WONDERS for my skin’s texture….think smaller pores, smoother texture, softened my lines…..the strap is too loose on me too but nothing that a little bowtie can’t fix…..basically I don’t give a rat’s ass as long as it’s getting the job done….which it is. There may be better fitted masks, I can’t speak to them as THIS LED MASK is the only one I’ve used and now cannot live without. Use daily. I do THREE 3 mins sessions.
Do you have any resolutions for 2023 or a word you’ve picked for the year?
On our drive back from Florida I thought heavily about this and although I had several words swirling through my brain, I kept coming back to PERMISSION. To rest, to be, to go, to stop, to pivot, to pause, to struggle, to adventure, to doubt, to ponder, to accept, to challenge…..it just felt like it was hitting me square between the eyes given where I am at in life and the things I’m working on professionally and personally.
Beautycounter discontinued # 2 oil, any other recs?
Absolutely. These 3 are my top faves see HERE, HERE, and HERE.
What are your Fave Amazon Leggings?
If you love aligns but don’t love the price tags…..THESE are a pretty stellar alternative at $26 and 10k+ reviews.
Alright, Gang, I’ve gotta go snag Cam for an Orthodontics appointment. This was fun….we’ll definitely do again sooner rather than later. Have a great day and many thanks for stopping by!
