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Everyday Fashion

  • Everyday Fashion

    Second Guessing: Floral Shorts

    Floral Shorts + Knot Tee
     The ebb and flow.  The up and down.  The highs and lows. But what about when  it is mostly the lows???

    Today (as I am writing) was on of those days.  I feel a bit like I am on a roller coaster.  Every time I make a decision I second guess it.  And not just the decisions I made today- but I started to question all the decision I have been making; for the last week, for the last month, for the last year… since Declan was born.  Most of my questioning (today) has involved my parenting and my ability to raise Declan.  Who gave me the license for this???? It was harder to get mt drivers license!!!  If deep in my heart I believe I am doing what is best for Declan then why do I question my every decision????

    At at the core of it I believe it is more than just parenting, for me.  I think we live in a society that unintentionally creates an environment where we have become conditioned to question ourselves.  The perception that someone or something is always better has driven us to second guess our own life.  Instead of celebrating what someone else has or being happy for the successes someone else celebrates we find ourselves wondering what I have done wrong.  Instead of boosting ourselves up and recognizing what we have we are constantly striving to “be better” and not always in a healthy or natural way.  Now, don’t get me wrong I am not talking about your drive or determination to be successful in your career or in your life as there needs to be fair amount of that to continue to grow both professionally and personally.  I am talking about the feeling you get when you drop your son off at camp and worry he won’t make friends and then question what I could have done prior to prepare him better. I am talking about the way you feel when look at where you are in life and wonder how long until you feel grounded.  I am talking about the feeling of doubt as to whether your choice to quit your job and start a new career will and has affected your family.  I am talking about the everyday choices that, in the  moment, seem to be the best but as life goes on you see them backfiring on you.  Those things are what drive me to just throw in the towel and give up.  Seriously, today is one of those days #gettingreal.

    Wallowing is a part of life- even if you don’t want to admit it.  I do it, you do it, everyone does it.  And on those days I am learning to be nicer to myself  To be a bit more patient with Declan and to forgive myself.  And to have an extra glass of wine!  As I reflect on all those choices I made, the ones I am questioning, I know that I made them with the best intentions, with a positive attitude and with all the facts I had at the time.  I can not change what has been done but I can only continue down the path and learn as I go.  Questions and comparing will not stop and I know this will not be the last time I feel this way.  To be honest I can not promise I won’t have worse days or that I will not wallow away and watch episode after episode of Friends.  But I can promise to do my best to keep myself in check… and when I can’t I know a few ladies who can.

    Photos: Jenna Sparks Photography 

     shop the look: floral shorts // white tee // sandals // clutch <similar>

    Alrighty ladies, not sure where you live but in Denver it has been unreasonably hot.  Like I took off my bra the other day it was so hot.  So I am all about light and breezy looks right now and when I realized these high-waisted floral shorts were flowy and breezy I about bought six pairs.  No but honestly, they are light, comfortable and breathable.  I love them for the high-waisted nature (I know I am late to the game on that front) but I am coming around and these are the first pair of many!!  So you ladies know that I love J.Crew for summer staples and this white tee is no exception and it is under $15.  It comes in a rainbow of colors and I promise you will want to wear it everyday.  These heels are a favorite and simple enough to let the outfit be the statement.  Full transparency: they are bit tight across my toes but starting to get broken in.

    Below I have linked several similar items.  And lucky for you almost all of them are now on the Nordstrom Sale! And lets be real- who doesn’t love a good sale, especially at Nordstrom?!?

    so then what???

    Well friends on this one I am stuck,  In all honesty I am still wallowing.  It is new day and I hope to spend less time wallowing but I am human and I get caught up in my own head.  Each decision is second, third and fourth guessed.  Getting out of my own head is the first step and this time I seem to be really stuck there… and for me, this time, that is okay.  Learning to be patient with myself is an uphill battle and today I am allowing myself to feel and digest these feelings.  Tomorrow is a new day but sometimes it takes more than a day… and I am okay with that. This time.

    With Love,

  • Everyday Fashion, Real Life Ramblings

    Fearless Award: A Little About Me

    Fearless Award

     

    So recently I was nominated for a blogger award by Alyssa from Teddy Bears and Lipsticks!!  I was so honored and totally caught off guard.  This award is really an opportunity to share a bit more about myself and what my blog is about.  In this blogging business we are constantly being measured up against each other and these types of #shoutouts really remind us how much support and collaboration is happening.  Part of my goal with Pish to Posh is help others feel fabulous and so at the end of this post I have nominated 5 other bloggers that are worth you taking taking a look at!!  Thank you Alyssa for this award!

    Fearless Award Questions:

    Who are you?!

    HI!!! I am Amanda.  I am a wife, a mother, a lover of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, a sister and a friend.  I am a Colorado native but have lived all over the world including Berlin and most recently, London.  My dog is my best friend and confidant and I love macaroni and cheese.  There are few things in life I like more than lazy weekends spent with my husband and son.

    What is your blog/instagram all about?

    Well….it is lifestyle, motherhood, fashion and a bit of humor. I love to write about my life and the way my mind works- I try to see the bigger picture in life and my hope is to inspire others to live their true authentic life.  I love fashion and clothes but I love my son and my family even more. I write about being a mother but not how to be a mother.  Sometimes I write about other bloggers and sometimes I write about my travels and adventures.  My Instagram is my life captured in little squares put out into the world in hopes of inspiring someone to smile, to laugh, to reflect or to connect.

    What do you LOVE about blogging/instagramming?

    Freedom of expression.  I love being able to share my world with others. I love connecting with like-minded ladies and I love meeting creative souls who challenge and inspire me.  I love being able to share a snipet of my life but still keep some things close to my heart. I love being able to express myself in a manner that is true and authentic to who I am and who I want be.

    What do you not love most about blogging/instagramming?

    Such a loaded question!!!  I put a lot of pressure on myself to grow, to engage and to be better.  I do not love those feelings as they can be overwhelming and consuming.  I hate the feeling of wonder when I publish a post (either on the blog or on Instaram) as to whether it will be received positively.  And sometimes I loath Instagram because just when I start to figure it out I realize I have no idea what I am doing #beingtotallyhonest

    What are your goals (big & small!) for your blog/instagram?

    To start the goal was to create a platform where I could showcase the person I knew myself to be.  As this journey has continued I want to inspire people. I want to connect with people and I want to provide an opportunity for people to feel connected.  One of my goals is to never loose my passion and to remember why I started this.  My goals, for both IG and the blog, are to remain authentic and grounded- be true to myself.

     If you could be better at one thing, what would it be?

    In general life it would be flexibility.  I am person who craves structure and routine.  I am working, everyday, to be more flexible.

    In the blogging/Instagram world it would be photos.  Both taking them and editing them. I would love to be more creative and artistic when I am behind the camera.

    Who are your biggest supporters? How/why?

    First and foremost my husband.  He has to endure endless hours of chatter about hashtags, outfit choices, Instagram content, photo shoots and blog content.  Next is my mother who reads every single post I write.  My best friend has been an incredible supporter by initially encouraging me to start the blog and for continuing to push me when I want to quit.

    What do you wish there was more of in your life

    Tricky question… should I could go emotional and deep or go real and witty….

    I wish there was one more chance to say goodbye to my grandmother.

     

    Fearless Award Secret Facts:

    1. I danced from the time I was three until I graduated high school. Ballet, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, tap- I did it all.
    2. I can change a flat tire.
    3. I love graph paper. Writing on it, making lists on it, creating my Instagram plan on it.
    4. I could (and have) eat a whole pan of brownies.
    5. I do not eat crusts on toast… and therefore neither does my son!

    I nominate:

    Nicole  @lifeinstyles_ns   www.lifeinstyles.com  –

    I met her when I moved back to Denver and I could not be happier about it.  She is a fashionista who keeps herself grounded in the mommy world with her adorable son.

    Victoria  @govictoria  www.thesoutherntrunk.com

    I met this amazing mama on Instagram and I simply adore her feed.  She is creative, thoughtful and authentic.

    Amanda @missamandaleigh117  www.amandastimpson.com

    Another blogger I met on Instagram and she has such a unique and genuine feed.  Plus, we share a name so obviously I was drawn to her.

    Sylvia  @seasonsinstilettos  www.seasonsinstilettos.com 

    This gorgeous fashionista has the most amazing wardrobe and is as sweet as pie.  Two things I admire in a lady!!

    Victoria  @vlaxerg   www.agallonofglitter.com 

    This pretty lady is one of the happiest people around.  She is constantly smiling and her smile is so contagious- plus she wears the cutest outfits around!

    I hope you enjoyed this fun little post and may have learned a little more about me and Pish to Posh.  Thank you to Alyssa for nominating me- I was truly honored and surprised!  My hope is that you have found a few more ladies to follow.  Let them fill your feed and inbox – i promise you wont regret it.

    With Love,

    What To Do Next:
    Compose the post on your blog (or Instagram? Could be kind of fun?!) and THANK the person who nominated you! Be sure to link to their blog/Instagram!
    Answer the Fearless Award questions (the questions that I answered above). List out 5 secret facts about yourself/blog/brand. Have fun with this!
    Post on your blog/Instagram! If on blog: Include the Fearless Award graphic (available here & here). If on Instagram: use the hashtag #BecomingFearless and tag @stylecollective_
    Nominate at least 5 #bossbabes who you think align with the Style Collective mantra of women championing women! List them and link to their blogs/Instagram. Include a sentence or two on why you love their blog/Instagram!
    Inform the nominees that you’ve elected them for the Fearless Award! They should post their answers and award rules on their blog/Instagram

     

     

     

  • Everyday Fashion

    Second Chances: Little Black Dress

    Summer Sun Dress

    Second chances are not given to make things right. But are given to prove we can better after we fall

    At this point in my life I am really trying to embrace the idea of second chances.  Not only for others but for MYSELF.  I am a pretty harsh critic of myself and when I mess up I am pretty unforgiving.  Allowing someone to change and giving them the opportunity to do so has been a great challenge for me despite my desire to forgive and move on.  The idea that second chances won’t take away the pain or make it better but to show that people (including myself) can make changes is a new one for me.  I always looked at second chances as an opportunity to right a wrong- or make amends for hurting someone- or demonstrate remorse… but the idea that I should use second chances to encourage and support growth is one I want to embrace more.

    Over the last several months I have been very candid about my journey, both good and bag, in returning to Denver.  What I may not have been as candid about was the impact that has had on some of my friendships, relationships and marriage.  Over the last several years I have had so many experiences that have impacted me – Declans birth and first year, moving to London, starting the blog, moving back to Denver, my husband traveling all the time- that I am so much different than I was just 4 years ago.  Over that time I have let go of friendships that did not align with where I was in my life, that I felt were not supportive, or that I did not feel an organic relationship from… at the time I felt very good about those choices.  I was comfortable moving on with my life.  I was comfortable and happy exploring new friendships and relationships.  And while I am still very happy with those choices I am opening my heart to second chances.  Recently, I had drinks with a girlfriend and I was blown away by the change and acceptance I felt from her, I left feeling rejuvenated, I left happy with the decision to open my heart for a second chance.  A second chance for a friendship, a second chance for happiness and second chance for an authentic relationships.

    I am a harsh critic of MYSELF.  I hold myself to standards that too often are unattainable so I am consistently letting myself down… and believe it or not this doesn’t seem to be working for me any longer.  Ha.  We all fail and we all fall down.  I am just not good at giving myself the second chance to do it again- I am not good and remembering there is growth in trying again.  Instead of granting myself forgiveness I hold a grudge against myself. Going forth I strive to allow myself to the second chance I deserve… growth is as important as the outcome.  Intentions speak louder than failures.

    Photos: Jenna Sparks Photography

    shop the look: dress <similar>  // sandals // tote // sunnies // necklace

    So, I am not one to get dressed up very often but I do love dresses.  I found this beauty at Rack and have been loving it.  This particular dress sold out pretty quickly but I have found several that are similar. I love an easy casual black dress in the summer as they are perfect for lunch dates, date nights and everything in between.  I typically choose ones that are easy to wear (meaning comfortable and wearable about my toddler) and that have one or two elements of fun!  This one has a racer back and the gathered detail at the waist add a little definition to a classic simple LBD.  These sandals popped up on my Instagram and I am still loving them.  They are fun, comfortable and under $25.  I mean what else do you need in a summer sandal??? I have linked several other lace up sandals, below.

    This Kate Spade was my summer bag purchase.  I debated for a while between several but in the end the scalloped detailing and the bright pink accents really sold this one for me. I love the summer feels and how big it is!!  I seem to be carrying a lot more in my bag these days, hmmmmm…. toddlers!

    chances

    With my new hope to allow myself and others second chance I can’t help but wonder what doors I may have closed by not offering a second chance.  Each day I am given another chance to offer myself an opportunity to pick up where I fell, to accept my failures and to try again.  In order for a second chance to work I have to allow the other person (or myself) the chance to change. If I always perceive them in a certain way I will never see anything different. It is up to me to open my hear, my mind and my life.  Second chances are hard… the fear of being hurt again, the fear of failure again or the fear of the unknown… but the possibility of authentic and organic relationships, personal growth and change are worth the chance.

    With Love,

     

  • Everyday Fashion

    Summer: Shopping with fab’rik

    Happy Summer Everyone!!

    This is a new type of post for me… I feel like I am experiencing more “new” posts than I am not… huh???
    **This post is sponsored by fab’rik but all opinions are my own**

     

    ANY-WHO!

    Let’s talk about shopping.  Let’s talk about summer.  Let’s talk about shopping for summer.  Recently I was lucky enough to spend a morning at fab’rik, here in Denver, helping some gorgeous ladies pick out some summer vacation looks!!  To start, I was so honored to be offered this opportunity but was super nervous as this was the first time I was going to get to style real people (other than my mom). It turned out to be such a great experience and I can not thank fab’rik enough!!!  I loved seeing women get excited about their clothes, the way they looked and how affordable the pieces were.

    The ladies at fab’rik Denver are so sweet and set me up for success.  And besides the fabulous selection at fab’rik really sells itself!!  The whole store is under $100 (with the exception of Hudson products) and they have everything from denim, shorts, tops, dresses, rompers, hats and accessories.  I love how so many of their pieces are from their own brand Asher which partners with Project 82 to help provide aid to children left abandoned in Kenya.  Here in Denver they have adopted Joshua and proceeds from the sale of their Asher clothing will help benefit him!  I love clothes with a cause.

    Below I have rounded up my top 10 favorite pieces for a perfect summer chic vacay look.  You can order online or you can stop into your local shop (here in Denver that is Aspen Grove). Make sure to snag up something sleek and classy for your trips this summer. I know I am. and can’t wait to scoop some new goodies for at trip to Austin I have planned in July.

    JUST CLICK ON THE PHOTO YOU LIKE TO BE TAKEN TO FAB’RIKS WEBSITE FOR EASY ONE-CLICK (OR TWO) SHOPPING! 

     

    Summer Vacation Essentials

    Summer Vacation Essentials

    Not only was I able to pick some fabulous pieces for my summer vacation wardrobe I was able to help style and empower other women who snagged a few summer pieces for their own closets.  One lady I worked with was a busy mom who felt she couldn’t look cute and when I heard this my heart hurt.  Not EVER should someone feel that she is not worthy of looking and feeling fabulous– so we spent some time pulling pieces that would work in her busy life and for her body type.  As a mom, myself, I know that sometimes clothes can be restrictive and not compatible with chasing after kids all day BUT there are so many wonderful options out there that you can wear while gallivanting around with kiddos and still look FABULOUS.  We got this sweet woman, Lindsay, walking out with a new pair of pants and a new attitude!!  I received an email from her later on thanking me and no matter how many collaborations I do, or how many likes or views I get… hearing another mom/woman tell me she feels great after working with me is EXACTLY why I do this.  Thank you Lindsay for opening yourself up and allowing me to help you find your perfect summer mom style- you looked fabulous!!

    fab’rik is located in twelve states so make sure you check out their website to find your local store.  You can order online as well but stopping in and supporting your local shop will be so much fun.

    Which ones are your favorite???

    With Love,

     

  • Everyday Fashion

    Letting Go: White Denim + Free People

    When do you decide to let it go? How long do hold onto something than is no longer in your grasp? Living on the fumes of our memories from London and in the haste of an abrupt move has left me holding onto something that I fear needs to be let free. It used to be more frequent but even 5 months later I get this sensation of unsettled feelings; I become overwhelmed with emotion as I am brought back, through my memories, of our life in London. So many people have asked “what was it about that city that made you so happy” and the honest truth is…. I don’t know.  

    Sometimes I think it was the tiny flat we lived in and the fact we survived on just what we had and the desire for “more” was never about space, objects or possessions. Sometimes I think it was the abundance of opportunities of daily exploration in a city rich with history, culture and pride. Sometimes I think it was the freedom of failure and success that rested solely on our shoulders and there was no obligation to share those moments.  Sometimes I think it was the neighborhood we lived in where we were able to feel grounded, establish a happy routine yet the world was at our fingertips.  

    Over the last several months I have been searching for the same amount of happiness I felt in London- we have considered moving again, we have talked about changing our family, we have discussed spending summers in London…but the reality is none of those things will make me happy.  I am to the point that I believe my holding onto a past is at the root of my inability to find grounded happiness here in Colorado.

    I miss London.  But I miss being blissfully happy even more.  If I am continuously yearning and  constantly thinking about the past than I am not allowing myself and open heart or mind to accept my present life.  And not just accept but to be happy.  Acceptance is step one and I am there.  I know we are here.  The next step is to put those memories, experiences and adventures in a safe place close to my heart where they will remain forever. Thus allowing my heart to be open and clear to find the happiness waiting for me here in Colorado.  I know it is here.. but I have been so clouded by the past I have not seen it… truthfully I have not been looking.  I am perpetually living in the past- even if it is just a few times a month- I need to be present here in this moment.  I owe myself this opportunity.  Finding happiness in my life now does not lessen or diminish the memories of London, it does not mean I can not look back fondly nor does it take away from the experience.  Finding happiness here actually validates our time in London… I learned a lot and changed so much- time to act on those principles.

    Photos: Jenna Sparks Photography 

    shop the look: Denim // tunic top // Sandals // Sunnies // necklace

    I am in love with white denim as you can tell from this recent post <here> and this one <here> but I am also loving this flowy tunic top from Free People.  Denver can get pretty hot in the summer but mornings and evenings are cool and this look is perfect for the changing temperatures.  These white denim are an absolute staple and I believe everyone should have at least one pair of white denim so I have linked several pairs.  This blue top has been simply amazing and for those who travel it packs really well.  It’s breezy which makes it easy to wear on warmer days.

    YOU GUYS… BOWS ON TOES!!!!  And these babies are under $25!!!  Been kind of loving Target sandal line up this year and these are my favorite.  Who doesn’t want to wear bows on your toes?????

    My dainty “D” initial necklace was my birthday gift from Brendan and I have yet to take it off.. .you have been seeing it in all my Instagram (make sure you are following me) photos!  I love how small and subtle it is but has the perfect amount of bling with the diamond encrusted initial.

    P.S.- had some technical difficulties with the links and trying to make them a different color- so everything is linked below in the picture shop widget- sorry!

    the signs it is time

    The latest terror attack in London.
    Going to a play where all the actors were British and it took place in the U.K.
    All of our boxes arriving from London.
    My son continuing to call me “Mummy”

    If I look around London is such a part of my everyday life- without me even realizing it.  I no longer need to live in the past.  The memories and experiences will and do live on in my life- the art on the wall- the way Declan says my name- the family photos we have- the stamps in my passport- the key to our flat I wear as a necklace- the clothes I bought there- the food we smuggled in and slowly treat ourselves to– its the small subtle things.  It is time.  London is not lost to me and despite the tears I cried while writing this I am ready.

    My hear it open and happy.

    With Love,

     

  • Everyday Fashion, Real Life Ramblings

    Confessions: Gingham Plaid Dress

    Gingham Summer Dress

    Are you totally intrigued by the title and wonder what I may have to confess?????

    If you are then I have done my job by hooking you… if you aren’t then scroll on by.

    May is Nation Mental Health Awareness Month and millions of Americans and even more world wide are affected by mental health issues.  As someone who suffers from anxiety (my BIG confession) I am ever eager to help educate, acknowledge and support those who are also effected by mental health issues.  To start I want to offer a few resources for individuals who may need extra support and then I will shed light on my own journey.

     

    To preface I am not an expert on mental illness.  This is about my journey and my story only.  My hope is that someone find comfort, identifies with this or feels less alone.  Furthermore, it is fairly theraputic for me to write this- I mean at the end of the day Pish to Posh is place where I have always felt free, confident and honest.

    I was first diagnosed with anxiety in my mid-twenties and began seeing a therapist.  My symptoms ranged from full blown panic attacks where I could not breath, I would be hysterical and flee the situation at any expense (emotionally, physically and monetarily) to a daily shortness of breath, to indulgence in alcohol and at times a lack of interest in just about eveything.  My symptoms became over bearing and ruled my life and so I was encouraged to see a therapist.  Through many sessions focusing on being true to myself, releasing myself from the pressures of others and allowing myself to feel respected and loved I began to feel much better and to have a handle of my life.  My panic attacks stopped, my shortness of breath subsided and I began to feel passionate about my life.  At that point in time I began and completed my Masters in Special Education and became a teacher.

    Flash forward 8 years to after Declans birth.  My anxiety returned only this time it was intertwined and coupled with severe postpartum depression.  Recognizing the signs and triggers my mother accompanied my to my 6 week postpartum appointment where she spoke to my doctor about my mental health…. I was relieved and appreciative of this as I was only focusing on my inability to care for my medically challenged newborn son. At that moment I felt a sense of relief and a sense of support that I am forever grateful for.  My mom knew I needed help and she knew I was too stubborn and too proud to admit I was no longer in control of my anxiety.  I had worked so hard to learn my triggers, to understand my mental abilities but in that moment I was unable to see what was right in front of me.

    Declan is now three years old and I am still dealing with my anxiety.  Some days I use medication to enable myself to get through the tough times but most of the time I work on acknowledging and owning my triggers. My triggers, now, are almost identical to those from my early twenties… my need to please everyone, my fear of failing and my desire to have people accept me.  I started Pish to Posh as an avenue to showcase the person I FEEL and know LIVES inside me as too often people saw me and thought of me as a weak over emotional person. I have friends who have no idea I suffer from this mental health condition (well they do know!).

    I have been pretty tight lipped about it as to not paint a perception or image of someone or something I am not.  Recently, I have made some changes in my life and been very intentional about who I surround myself with, who I confide in and who I trust.  Over the last several years I have learned to hold my life close to my heart and to protect myself.  Has this changed some of my relationships???  Yes, it certainly has.  Has it changed my marriage??  Yes, it certainly has.  Has it changed my life???  YES, it certainly has.

     

    SHOP THE LOOK: DRESS // WEDGES // BAG <similar> // WATCH // EARRING

    Some days are easier than others and some days are down right hard.  That is the thing with mental health… I can try and try to control it and I can try and try to “overcome” it but the truth is that I have anxiety. Each day I am faced with the choice to let it overtake me and consume me or to work hard and change my life.  Everyday I choose.  Sometimes I make the easy choice and let it consume me, let it keep me away from social situations, let it rule my marriage and let it influence my parenting.  But most days I choose to admit that I have anxiety, take a deep breath and challenge myself to make a small change that will help me feel free.  Because that is the thing… I feel trapped.  But only I can change that- through my actions, through my thoughts and through leaning on my support system.

    This is me.  For better or worse this is me.

    SHOP THE LOOK: DRESS // WEDGES // BAG <SIMILAR> // WATCH // EARRING

    This dress was gifted to me by the wonderful ladies at Shopstevie Colorado.  Check out their website for the best summer casual looks.  Their products are so easy to wear, fit perfectly and reasonably priced.  This blue plaid gingham is less than $40.  It is a flowyier fit but runs true to size. They have such a great selection of casual summer dress and ship all their products!

    These Steve Madden platform sandals are slowly becoming my favorite summer sandals as they are ever comfortable and such a great neutral that they pair with anything.  I wear them with shorts, dresses, skirts and denim.  This floral bag is not as readily available anymore but I have linked several other bright floral bags and this same bag in a different color.

    Have a great week everyone!!  If you haven’t already make sure to subscribe to ensure you never miss a post.

    With Love,


  • Everyday Fashion, Real Life Ramblings

    Birthday’s + Green Floral Maxi Dress

    Floral Maxi Dress

    Well if the photos were not enough to give it away- It is my birthday!

    I am shocked that I am 35 (image how my mother feels).  It is crazy to look back at photos and think about all the birthday’s past and all the celebrations I have had.  I used to really really love my birthday and celebrating it was my very favorite thing but as the years keep adding up I have started to shy away from the huge celebrations.  Not really sure why but it seems the progression has been natural and I am okay about that.

    To celebrate I wanted to share a few random facts you may not know about me….

    • I am obsessed with Justin Beiber.  There are very few people who know this but it feels good to finally share it!  My son has started to request his songs on Spotify and it truly is a shining moment for me.
    • I have an odd and unjustified fear of shingles stacked on roofs. Again unjustified.
    • Chips and salsa, blueberry donuts, meatballs and my mothers french toast are my absolute favorite foods.
    • My father took me to school on the first day of class from kindergarten to freshman in college.  Despite his travel when I was growing up he never missed a single first day of school.
    • I close all the doors in the house before I go to bed; bathrooms, bedrooms, closets.
    • I drink coffee from a straw.
    • My sense of direction is spot on- and I am rarely every wrong.
    • Getting into a freshly made bed with clean sheets is something I live for (right after I close all the doors)!
    • Despite being completely in love with Brendan I had to be bribed to go out on our first date. However I knew by the end of dinner I knew I would marry him.
    • i have a gnarly 3 inch scar on my left elbow from falling off a horse when i was 16 years old.
    • The back deck at my parents house in the mountains, my childhood home, is my favorite place on earth.
    • My family- Brendan, Declan and Rubble, are the most important people (and dog) in the world to me.  Without them my days would be heavier, my heart would be clouded and my birthday would not be nearly as special.
    • vanilla cupcakes with vanilla frosting are my weakness

    This dress was the perfect look to ring in my birthday and I want to thank Farbik Denver for helping me style it and letting me wear it! I feel in love with it at their store and was confident it would be the best outfit for this post.  The colors, the backless nature and long flowy are simply amazing.  If you are headed to a beach, a formal affair or want to make a statement with a show stopping dress you need to scoop this up from Fabrik.  I have linked several similar dresses below and I tried to find varying price ranges.

    another year around the sun

    As I reflect on the last 365 I am in amazement at what life has offered me, what challenges I have overcome, what adventures lie ahead and how much has changed since last year on this day.  I have moved countries, I have started this blogging adventure, I have learned even more about motherhood, I have traveled to amazing countries and continents, I have met and nurtured some amazing friendships, I have fallen down and landed back  on my feet- I hate to be cliche but I believe the best is yet to come… 35 years and I am just getting started.

    With Love,