Today I'm half of 50, a third of 75, and a quarter of a century. Not going to lie, I had a momentary mid-life crisis. I have yet to accomplish most things I want to in life such as travel across the globe, get married, and complete the items on my bucket list. I will say though that these past 25 years have taught me a great deal - I thought I would share what I know because well, we are all getting older and any tips and tricks we learn along the way should be shared.
1. Change your thoughts, change your life. Don't dwell on the negative, embrace the positive.
2. If you like to sing in the car, go all out. I once a had sing-off with someone at a stoplight.
3. Stock up on dry shampoo like it's your day job. You're an adult now and washing your hair everyday is not a priority - your sanity is.
4. Invest in quality clothes. Classic pieces in your closet will make you feel confident and comfortable.
5. When in doubt - it's still ok to call Mom, or your BFF - just call someone.
6. Coffee IV's are acceptable but make sure to drink some water too.
7. Happy Hours with your girlfriends keep you sane - drink those martinis girl!
8. You're now at the prime age to start using anti-aging products.
9. While spaghetti with veggie noodles and organic tomato sauce sounds good every night for dinner, learn to cook something else.
10. Love is hard. You won't always find it when you want it, but don't give up on it just because you didn't get it right the first time (or second or third or fourth).
11. Work out regularly - our metabolisms are now a quarter of a century old, no more midnight McDonalds run
12. Learn how to bake cookies. Men like cookies, coworkers like cookies, and friends need cookies when life sucks.
13. Eat your vegetables.
14. Target will most likely be your saving grace - make sure to live close to one.
15. Don't forget birthdays. You're now too old for "forgetting birthdays" to be cute. Write them all down somewhere.
16. Take interest in something your significant other likes. Let's face it, we all have hobbies and although we don't have to like ALL the hobbies are significant other likes, it's good to have something to do together.
17. All you need in your toolbox is a screwdriver, it doubles as a hammer.
18. You can never have too many umbrellas. I keep one at work, in my car, in my apartment, and all travel bags. No one likes wet dog hair.
19. When you're sick, you'll have to take care of yourself (this is where living close to Target comes in handy). Always have some ibuprofen, NyQuil, and kleenex on hand.
20. Send your grandparents emails or letters. Let's face it, most grandpas and grandmas are not hip on the new technology - make sure to stay in touch with them.
21. Always double check to make sure the curling iron is off (my dad would be proud).
22. When you can save money - do it. Having a savings gets you through life's speed bumps.
23. Challenge yourself and keep trying new things. I went in a hot air balloon this year - how freaking cool is that?!
24. Take trips with your girlfriends and have fun! They will be your backbone in this game of life.
25. Never, EVER, give up on your dreams, and never stop dreaming.
My 24th year of life was very rough. I learned a lot, lost a lot, but gained even more. Sure, life sucks, but there is so much good that can come from it too. I'm excited for my 25th year in life - I'm sure it will be full of surprises, road bumps, bruises, laughs, tears, and lots of veggies.
I am the ultimate deal finder; you can bet if there's a sale, I'll be there. My mom and I were browsing T.J. Maxx a couple of months ago when I saw this Badgley Mischka wrap jacket and fell.in.love. (She gifted it to me for Christmas!) For starters, I have a jacket addiction - when you live in an area of cold weather you honestly cannot have too many jackets. Second, the wrap style is and always will be "a trend." Not only does the pinched waist give you shape but it's ultra comfortable. Lastly, the color and fabric had me at first glance. Pair this with a strand of pearls, Chanel handbag, and Manolo's and boom - you're Carrie Bradshaw. I wanted to keep things simple and let the jacket do the talking; thus, skinny jeans, classic button-down, and suede pumps completed my look.
While I didn't find this jacket online, there are so many similar ones linked below. If you also check your local T.J. Maxx I know they still have this jacket and it's marked down to $64! Not bad for a jacket that will get a lot of wear.
I just updated my Shop page - there are a bunch of sales going on right now!
Belle by Badgley Mischka Wrap Coat (see similar below) // Michael Kor Pumps // Banana Republic Skinny Jeans // Banana Republic Button Down
While I didn't find this jacket online, there are so many similar ones linked below. If you also check your local T.J. Maxx I know they still have this jacket and it's marked down to $64! Not bad for a jacket that will get a lot of wear.
I just updated my Shop page - there are a bunch of sales going on right now!
It's hard to believe Christmas has come and gone. The weekend went by so quickly - we spent it cozied up in pajamas, baking, watching movies, and eating way too much honey baked ham. I'm also inspired after some time off to re-vamp my wardrobe and add some brighter pieces. Just because it's winter doesn't mean our outfits should suffer. I love this pleated ruffle top from Banana Republic - anyone who knows me knows that I don't shy away from color or anything feminine and this top was no exception! It's a great piece for layering under a blazer or cardigan and can so easily be paired with skinny jeans or work trousers.
Finding work trousers that fit well has been an on-going battle. That is, until Banana sent me a pair of Sloan trousers. Not only is there the right amount of stretch but they are so comfortable and sliming. #searchover I'm serious when I say I have tried ten too many different styles, brands, and colors of work trousers and have yet to find ones that I keep going back to. These fit true to size and hug your curves in all the right places.
Banana Republic Pleated Ruffle Top c/o // Banana Republic Skinny Ankle Sloans c/o // Nine West High Heels // Pearls (similar)
I only work one day this week (lucky me!), this top is perfect for the office and even cuter for happy hour afterwards with the girls. We are still planing festivities for the rest of the week. I turn 25 22 on Friday and so far a relaxing spa day is on the schedule. I can't think of a better way to ring out turning a quarter of a century and the New Year any other way, can you?!
Shop the look below. Note: this top comes in black and may or may not be on it's way to my apartment #oneineverycolor
While I love posting about my latest outfits, beauty routines, and other "cute" things, one of the reasons I started this blog was because I loved to write and share stories of my life. Thus, I want to share my Christmas Story.
This Christmas, my siblings and I ventured south to Cape Girardeau, Missouri to spend Christmas with my mom. In the weeks leading up to Christmas we planned meals, outfits, gifts for one another, and activities we will participate in. My mom also suggested we try something new this year and sponsor a family. We always try to give back any we can through the holidays but this year it felt extra special.
We were assigned a family to which we would sponsor and from there we could contact them to get more details. Pat, the grandfather, wrote us a hand-written letter with details about the family, the kids, and what they wanted/needed for Christmas. My mom had talked to him on the phone to coordinate a time to meet, and confirm everything on the list.
After her conversation, we learned more about this sweet family that made us realize just how lucky we were. We found out that over Thanksgiving, Pat was given a 5% chance to live. He has cancer and developed an infection that went through his skin and 'attacked' his muscles. We also learned that this family didn't have much. Alexa, 10 years old, needed jeans a new coat and wanted an Elf on the Shelf. Lyalf, 8 years old, wanted Pokemon cards, waterproof boots and a compound bow. Lastly, Trevor, 4 years old, wanted Lincoln Logs, waterproof boots, and a DVD player to watch movies. We put together all the gifts and wrapped them in Santa Claus paper. I was nervous if they would like all of their gifts and what they would think about us.
My family and I arrived at their home on the evening of Christmas Eve. The kids showed us their room as "Santa" came and delivered the gifts under the tree. When they started opening their presents their little faces lit up and they were grinning ear to ear. These children were so kind and thankful - when Trevor put on his new boots he ran through the house the rest of the evening...and to think it was just new boots.
We learned more about the children, their biological father had abused them when they were very young, thus why they live with their grandparents...and one whom they almost lost. This was a family that had struggled much more than we have. Sure, we've had divorce, broken relationships and fights, but never have we gone through what they have endured. When we were heading out the door, Trevor (the youngest) ran up to me and gave me the biggest hug. He looked up and smiled and I knew that this was the best thing we possibly could have done this Christmas.
Here I was, wanting nothing more than this holiday to come and go. I'm overwhelmed with my work, broken-hearted over a broken relationship, and depressed with so many things in life. This Christmas Eve really was for us. To remind us how blessed we are and how grateful we should be. That so many people have a lot less than we do, and that something as simple as new boots can put a smile on a child's face.
I will never forget this family. They touched my heart more than I imagined was possible. It's one of the best stories that I will ever tell - how we were helping out a family, but really, they did so much more for us.
I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas - hold your loved ones, cherish your family, give thanks over all that you have, and more importantly: don't forget about those that have a lot less than yourself and keep them in your hearts. For Alexa, Lyalf, and Trevor will forever be in mine.
This Christmas, my siblings and I ventured south to Cape Girardeau, Missouri to spend Christmas with my mom. In the weeks leading up to Christmas we planned meals, outfits, gifts for one another, and activities we will participate in. My mom also suggested we try something new this year and sponsor a family. We always try to give back any we can through the holidays but this year it felt extra special.
We were assigned a family to which we would sponsor and from there we could contact them to get more details. Pat, the grandfather, wrote us a hand-written letter with details about the family, the kids, and what they wanted/needed for Christmas. My mom had talked to him on the phone to coordinate a time to meet, and confirm everything on the list.
After her conversation, we learned more about this sweet family that made us realize just how lucky we were. We found out that over Thanksgiving, Pat was given a 5% chance to live. He has cancer and developed an infection that went through his skin and 'attacked' his muscles. We also learned that this family didn't have much. Alexa, 10 years old, needed jeans a new coat and wanted an Elf on the Shelf. Lyalf, 8 years old, wanted Pokemon cards, waterproof boots and a compound bow. Lastly, Trevor, 4 years old, wanted Lincoln Logs, waterproof boots, and a DVD player to watch movies. We put together all the gifts and wrapped them in Santa Claus paper. I was nervous if they would like all of their gifts and what they would think about us.
My family and I arrived at their home on the evening of Christmas Eve. The kids showed us their room as "Santa" came and delivered the gifts under the tree. When they started opening their presents their little faces lit up and they were grinning ear to ear. These children were so kind and thankful - when Trevor put on his new boots he ran through the house the rest of the evening...and to think it was just new boots.
We learned more about the children, their biological father had abused them when they were very young, thus why they live with their grandparents...and one whom they almost lost. This was a family that had struggled much more than we have. Sure, we've had divorce, broken relationships and fights, but never have we gone through what they have endured. When we were heading out the door, Trevor (the youngest) ran up to me and gave me the biggest hug. He looked up and smiled and I knew that this was the best thing we possibly could have done this Christmas.
Here I was, wanting nothing more than this holiday to come and go. I'm overwhelmed with my work, broken-hearted over a broken relationship, and depressed with so many things in life. This Christmas Eve really was for us. To remind us how blessed we are and how grateful we should be. That so many people have a lot less than we do, and that something as simple as new boots can put a smile on a child's face.
I will never forget this family. They touched my heart more than I imagined was possible. It's one of the best stories that I will ever tell - how we were helping out a family, but really, they did so much more for us.
I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas - hold your loved ones, cherish your family, give thanks over all that you have, and more importantly: don't forget about those that have a lot less than yourself and keep them in your hearts. For Alexa, Lyalf, and Trevor will forever be in mine.
Merry Christmas!
There are a few people that I have a really hard time shopping for. Whether it's for a birthday, Christmas, or mother's day - I can never find the 'perfect' gift. I received my POPSUGAR December Must Have Box in the mail the other day and I got to thinking that some of these pieces would be great gifts. I then thought how I would love the gift that keeps on giving...such as a subscription box.
If you have a few last minute gifts to buy (I always wait until the last minute for those few people), then I would recommend the Must Have Box! Not only is it easy but there is something new every month, and that person that is difficult to shop for is bound to love what they receive in the box.
If you have a few last minute gifts to buy (I always wait until the last minute for those few people), then I would recommend the Must Have Box! Not only is it easy but there is something new every month, and that person that is difficult to shop for is bound to love what they receive in the box.
This month was a fun collection of items including some decor pieces, hair products, and of course jewelry.
1 // Odeme Dish Set - Who doesn't love a porcelain dish set? Perfect "catch-alls" for your side table, desk, or vanity.
2 // Baublebar Pendant - I rarely wear silver but I love this pendant and I have already played it out with a couple of outfits. It's simple and sophisticated and can be worn with a variety of tops.
3 // Mane Message Bobbi Pins - Since I just cut more of my hair off, I am so glad these arrived! I've been having issues with pinning my hair up because there are a lot of short pieces, these are great and super cute!
4 // Winky Lux Lipstick in 'Bunny' - You all know my affinity for color and this cranberry lipstick is no exception. It came at just the right time for the holidays.
5 // Sister's Gourmet Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix - I am not a baker, thus, anything that comes pre-packaged is my jam. You only need eggs and butter and voila! Also makes for a great hostess gift.
6 // Dessange Coloring Protecting Serum - And my favorite: a color restore, color protecting, top coat serum. I also just recently colored my hair and serums are one of my favorite products to keep my hair healthy. This serum smells ah-maz-ing and adds a lot of shine, must-try if you color your hair.
Don't forget if you sign up for the Must Have Box to enter code Shop5 to get $5 off your first order!
Note: I've linked the items (or similar items) below so you can shop your little heart out!
I've never been one to change up my hair drastically. It's always been the same color and it generally was always medium in length. Well, after I tried the long angled bob a few months ago, I switched things up again and did a shorter bob with some blonde (I'll debut more pictures later!). One thing I will tell you is that this style has virtually no maintenance. It takes me 15 minutes to get my hair to look like it does below. #winning Messy waves and curls still look super chic with this cut, it's just a lot quicker to do! My hairstylist (who is ah-maz-ing and works at Aveda) added some longer bangs to frame my face - a great way to conceal a larger forehead!
I try to take good care of my hair; using products that strength and pull out the shine. I try to use minimal heat and as I mentioned this is the first time I have really colored my hair! Most of the products I use you can get from the drugstore and I love them - I have also recently started using more Aveda products and those wonders for my hair as well. If you are looking to strength your hair, use this serum. For those that have thin or fine hair, this thickening tonic and dry shampoo are my favorites. Note, I don't just use dry shampoo for days when I don't wash my hair! It reduces the oil production I generally get throughout the day and gives my hair extra volume and shine - a must have!
It's no secret that I love color. I think the only color I shy away from is orange - but who likes that color anyways? It seems that a lot of people get "stuck" during the winter months with their wardrobe. They are afraid to branch out and add color. While an all black or neutral ensemble is great any day, a little color helps brighten up all the white and grey we see during the winter months. Whether you start with a hat, pair of socks, sweater, or coat - there are plenty of options! Even adding an accessory such as a necklace or pair of high heels or loafers is a great way to start. Below are some previous looks I have posted, there are many more to come as I think I'll make this winter the most colorful, but I have also rounded up some very colorful clothing options below!
Note: If you haven't been to ShopStyle before, I highly recommend you check it out! They have a gift guides, blogger favorites, and a section that shows current deals with different retailers. This site is seriously genius! If you can't find what you're looking for or what all your favorite brands in one place, this makes it much easier!
Shop the widget below for winter brights!
Note: If you haven't been to ShopStyle before, I highly recommend you check it out! They have a gift guides, blogger favorites, and a section that shows current deals with different retailers. This site is seriously genius! If you can't find what you're looking for or what all your favorite brands in one place, this makes it much easier!
Shop the widget below for winter brights!
I'll be the first to admit that I constantly live in the future. I'm always planning or daydreaming about what I'm doing next or where I will be. It's rare, that I take time to reflect on the days and months that have passed. I get so excited about what the future holds that I don't stop to look back on all that was, what I learned or how far I've come. Reflection is a positive thing; it's what makes us change, grow, learn about ourselves and shape us into the people we are. So why don't I do it more?
It's that time of year where we all start making resolutions. We vow to kick old habits, set new goals for ourselves, write out wish-lists' and bucket-lists' filled with things we don't need or long for. If we are always living in the future, how will we be able to learn from the mistakes we made in the past?Or realize that the past year has been essential in shaping us as the person we are today?
I think about all the negative this year, there are things I don't wish to remember, but then I reflect back on all that has come from the negative. The amazing people that have entered my life, the career that has challenged me intellectually and the relationships that have shaped me emotionally. Through the muck and dirt, there are so many positives that make me who I am today, and to think, I wanted to forget it all.
It's important to reflect on the memories and moments you had, so you can better plan, set goals and resolutions for the moments and memories to be had. As people, we are constantly evolving. It's not fair to say that you have been stuck in one place - because really, you have changed and grown more than you know. Only looking back on the year will help you realize how far you have come, and more importantly, how much further you have left to go.
For the new year, I'm not making resolutions. I'm not vowing to kick an old habit or add more items to my bucket list. I'm going to live my daily life and enjoy the present. I rarely live in the moment, and I'm disappointed because I feel like I've missed so much. Sure, I will always have dreams and goals I strive for, that's in my nature. I want to have a stronger presence living for each day then worrying about what I will do next. No more moments missed, no more pasts' regretted - only memories had and always remembered.
With that said: take that trip, buy those shoes, kiss that person, hug a friend, read that book, go on adventures, love with all your heart, and live for the now. For in a blink of an eye it will be December 2017 and we will be talking about this all over again:).
I live in less than 400 sq. ft. - I call it my "mouse house." Moving into such a small space has made me purge everything that was taking up space and limiting what I can buy for decor, clothes, etc. I never thought it would be possible to live in such a small space and while I hate it most of the time because there is no where to escape - I've realized I don't need much more (it's a definite want though). To say I was disappointed when I realized I wouldn't be chopping down a Christmas tree this year was probably the hardest realization yet. However, I'm adoring my little Christmas tree, holiday brights, and $8 Target wreath. I told myself that next year, I will have the grandest tree yet!
The majority of this decor is from last year's Target haul, but I feel like they are pieces I will continue to use over and over - especially in my home office someday! The key to decorating such a small apartment is one thing: minimalism. Keeping it simple so the decor doesn't overwhelm the space is essential. I feel so claustrophobic when my small space is a mess. If the bed is not made, there are piles of laundry, shoes cover the entry way and dishes fill the sink - it makes everything feel so.much.smaller. I haven't figured out the perfect way to live in this space but I think overtime, I will acquire new organizational tips and tricks to help.
I don't know about you, but in my opinion, men are incredibly hard to shop for. I feel like most men aren't keen on gifts and if they are, they are very particular. Some prefer sentimental gifts, with others, they prefer the latest tech option or accessories. Others, don't like gifts and prefer adventures or activities. There is not a good "one size fits all gift" for men. I have rounded up some options that I think a lot of men would like plus some other options below. And please, if you have suggestions, comment below! These gifts are always the ones I put off until the last minute.
2 // Cologne
3 // Roshe Runs
4 // Swell Water Bottle
5 // Herschel Travel Bag
6 // Ray-Ban Sunglasses
7 // Rimowa Luggage
8 // Beats by Dr. Dre
9 // Apple Watch
10 // Card Game
11 // Whiskey Ice Balls
12 // Leather Charger Roll Up
Some other good gift options would be NFL (or any other sport) tickets, a short vacation somewhere, an activity planned such as skydiving or scuba diving, a day driving a luxury vehicle, hunting/fishing items for the outdoorsmen, or other obvious gifts like clothing.
Luckily, my dad was fairly easy to shop for this year as was my brother. He is at the age where he likes $25 Nike socks and basketballs (thank goodness) - and my dad prefers gifts he can use. There are hundreds of options, let me know what I missed below!
Tis' the season for red! Reason #54678382 why I love this time of year: the holiday outfits! This red plaid skirt from Old Navy is a fun alternative to a holiday skirt. It can easily be paired with ivory or grey sweater - this would even be cute for a more causal look. This year for Christmas we are going down south, only to Missouri but that's pretty south for those that live in the upper midwest. My mom has been sending us photos of our tree she put up and the stockings hung over her new fireplace. I am a gal that lives for traditions but I think trying something new this year will do me good!
Skirt: Old Navy // Sweater: Banana Republic // Flats: Banana Republic // Earrings: Banana Republic // Crossbody: Kate Spade, not in stock, this is a great option!
This Friday is our office holiday party. Last year, I was way under-dressed so this year I have been scrambling to find the perfect dress. Unfortunately, everything is picked over from store to store here in Des Moines - except The Limited! I generally shop there for my work attire and they have great basic pieces as well, including theLBD that I will be donning at the holiday party. A blazer or sequin jacket, fun heels, and red lipstick will dress it up perfectly. Oh, and everything is an additional 60% off so stop in when you can!
More holiday outfit options below:
I don't have cable so Netflix is definitely my go-to when it comes to binge-worthy, joyful, and extremely cheesy shows and movies. One of my favorite parts of the holiday season is participating in all the necessary festivities: singing holiday songs, decorating with holiday decor, baking cookies, and watching holiday movies. I have rounded up my favorite shows and movies for this season. If you have any more to add, share below so I can watch!
Holiday Movies:
This holiday classic has to be one of my favorites and one that I'm sure most have seen. It's that movie that you can watch a hundred times and not get tired of it.
My favorite holiday movie, a sweet little girl doesn't believe in Santa until she meets the real Santa - such a charming movie.
My siblings and I love this movie - it's hilarious with Jamie Lee Curtis and Tim Allen (the classic holiday movie man), a must-watch if you're looking for a good laugh
This is an ABC Family movie (now Freeform), although it's cheesy I love the message and the ending is so sweet. A feel-good, happy, holiday movie!
A classic that everyone should watch at least once.
This movie may be the cheesiest but I love a happy ending and the story line is great - I promise if you watch it you won't be disappointed.
A woman is on a mission to help a little girl get her Christmas wish - a new mom.
These were my favorite as a little girl, I love turning them on if I'm baking or decorating. Again, another holiday movie everyone should watch just once.
Binge-Worthy:
I remember watching Gilmore Girls when it first aired on ABC Family, it was my favorite show and I have probably watched the seasons three times over. The revival is far from a disappointment and definitely binge-worthy. Watch if you haven't already!
I love watching New Girl when I need a good laugh. The characters are reminiscent of real-life people and it's very light-hearted.
On the opposite spectrum, The Walking Dead has quickly become one of my favorite shows. I'm just finishing up Season 3 and I have been staying up way too late watching episodes - it's just too good.
While this is definitely not like the original Full House, I still love the characters and story line. I miss Mary-Kate & Ashley, hopefully they make an appearance in the next season!
Good Feel Movies:
This is another great movie, similar to Eat Pray Love. If you are a single gal and not loving life right now - this one's for you!
Any movie with Jennifer Aniston is a movie to watch. She is a career woman fighting for rights -definitely a good feel movie.
Classic love story - must see at least once!
Another movie for the single gals - and also, who doesn't love dogs?!
What other shows or movies am I missing? Share below!
We had our first snowfall here in Des Moines this weekend. While it didn't stick, it sure was a pretty sight. I've been adding more basic sweaters to my wardrobe, it seems like one can never have too many! I have been embracing reds and maroon more. I used to shy away as I thought my skin tone was too pale for the color. Turns out, I love the color! This blanket scarf, a mixture of reds, light pink, and purple is the perfect accessory to add.