GO ON AND TREAT YO SELF!
Hope you have a Happy Halloween! Are you dressing up today?
Thursday, October 31, 2019
Friday, October 25, 2019
LURVE LOAVE LUFF
Let's get right to it, shall we?
Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.
- Polka-Dot Runner // I keep trying to think of a place I could put this. The price point is incredible for wool.
- Aged Iron Bow // I'm so glad that Terrain is selling these cuties again. I need more of them in my life.
- Makeup Eraser // Everyone raves about the Makeup Eraser. I've been thinking about trying it. Thoughts?
- Hurst Tortoise Shell Frames // These specs are giving me serious Hockney vibes. Aren't they adorable?
- Spar Wall Sconce // Replacing some of the lights in our house is still one of my goals. This is a beauty!
- Ribbed Beanie in Supersoft Yarn // Yes J.Crew, yessssss! THIS is the type of pink we've been waiting for.
- Tippi Sweater in Rugby Stripe // I love this color combination, but I'm not sure if it would wash me out.
- Cashmere Cardigan with Jeweled Buttons // I got a handful of gift cards to my fave store. Come to mama!
- Slim Boyfriend Jean // My go-to style of denim. I'm excited to see what the wash and distressing are like.
- Calf-Hair Smoking Loafers // Calf-hair ANYTHING will forever be the perfect way to polish off any outfit.
- Swagger Tote Bag // Rachel Castle's line of totes have me weak in the knees. There's a library one too!
- Fuchsia Sydney Earrings // I can totally see my mom wearing these to school and the kids would FREAK!!
- Piece of My Heart // Claire Ritchie's work is just another reminder I should be Australian in my next life.
- Multi-Purpose Tie // People tend to forget about gingham after Spring and Summer, but I think that's silly.
- Crystal Cuff // I haven't donned my chunky jewelry in far too long. Seriously, what's the problem with me?
Have a fabulous weekend, m' dears! Make it count.
Thursday, October 24, 2019
THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS
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| VIA |
FEELING: While Flyboy was deployed earlier this year, he came up with a goal to run in the USMC Marathon in Washington DC, which will take place this Sunday. To sweeten the deal, he'll get to race alongside one of his dearest friends from Swell Rio. It's been fun watching him (did you notice my word choice there?) work toward this goal and helping him carb load along the way. Haha! Despite a few issues with his knee and the occasional stiff neck, his training has gone fairly well and I'm incredibly proud of his commitment. Stay tuned for lots of pictures!!
THINKING ABOUT: Max is obsessed with getting to use the book return slot whenever we visit the library. The last few times we've gone, he proceeds to give EVERY book a good-bye kiss. Germaphobes will probably disagree, but it might be one of the sweetest things to watch. I LOVE that he loves books and that he has a strong immune system.
THANKFUL FOR: I hate typing this because it will probably backfire, but it's been THREE weeks since I had to take a migraine pill. I can't remember the last time that happened. It's been years, honestly! While the Botox has helped tremendously, I think magnesium in the evenings, CBD salve, and staying hydrated have played a huge role as well.
READING: Morgan Harper Nichols is such a beautiful writer. At least once a week, I find myself scribbling one of her poems or inspirational quotes down on a piece of paper. Last week it was this passage spoke to my soul:
"Some people only tell the stories of their struggles in past test. They only speak of all that was conquered and overcome. But I hope you know it is okay if you are the kind who is still traveling slow in the desert sun. It's okay to search for hope when you still feel undone. You are free to thrive and be at peace even when there are not answers for everything. Come alive, dear friend, come alive, in whatever way that looks like."
WATCHING: Last Sunday night my sister and I started watching Modern Love on Amazon. I texted her after watching the first episode only to find out that she was streaming it at the same time. Haha! Great minds, right?! The consensus is that the concept is precious, the cast is insane, and each story is a beautiful representation of real-life love. Have you given the new series a shot? I especially like that each episode is a different story so you can watch one in the evening and you don't feel the need to binge-watch. Melatonin and #momlife aren't always conducive to that.
EATING: Because Flyboy was going to be away for my birthday, the boys made me a Dump Cake last weekend. With all the Fall celebrations, I think we've had every cake flavor under the sun in two month's time, so this comfort food sounded especially satisfying. The fact that it's a super simple recipe that Max could do mostly on his own was the best part. The end result was delicious paired with some vanilla bean ice cream and took me back to my childhood. It's also the primary reason my pants are fitting a bit tighter this week. Totally worth it, right??
LISTENING: While spinning Sunday afternoon, my Bluetooth disabled just as Max walked into my closet during his quiet time and Lizzo's "Phone" was playing. He's getting to the age where I have to be "responsible" and somewhat choosy in what I let him hear, which is a real joy killer. Ha Ha! The timing wasn't ideal when he started asking why the singer kept asking about the location of her phone, but we agreed that it's a super catchy tune as most of her songs are. "Hey mom, that sounds like a really fun song you were listening to! Can we sing it in the car together sometime?" To which I replied, "Maybe?" and then proceeded to pray that he forget about this jingle and if he does sing anything from it at school maybe it's just the "How I'm 'posed to get home?" part. It sounds like something a preschooler might say.
LOVING: My dad always includes extra fun money in my birthday card and getting to spend it makes me feel like a kid again. I typically end up taking it to Ulta and Sephora to splurge on a new lipstick or hair product. This year I opted for this gorgeous NARS Star Scene Cheek Palette. After two days of use, I'm convinced it was cash well spent because it makes me feel like a glowy queen. I'm already panicking over what I'll do when I run out of the limited-edition palette, which is probably months from now, but that's a pretty good sign I'm obsessed with my purchase. Thanks again, dad!!
How are you feeling today? What are you up to? Thanks for stopping by!!
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
LIFE'S LITTLE DETAILS
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| "THE DETAILS ARE NOT THE DETAILS. THEY MAKE THE DESIGN." — CHARLES EAMES |
Happy Wednesday, m' dears! Yesterday I woke up and welcomed year 34 by hopping on my spin bike, donning workout gear and a shower cap (because Olaplex No. 3), cranked up a little Lizzo, and had zero expectations Max would even know it was my birthday. Flyboy has been in Florida for a conference, so I didn't think there would be much celebrating until he got home, but my five-year-old ended up surprising me with the sweetest HBD. Ha! Needless to say, it was the unexpected highlight of my Tuesday. The rest of the day really didn't matter because Max actually remembered!! Who knew?! It rained for most of the day, so we visited the Dover library, read a new book we checked out at Starbucks, and then made chocolate chip cookies for Max's preschool program (which is happening today!!). The sass was minimal and the tantrums were manageable, so it was a pretty wonderful birthday after all. Yesssss!
Alright, enough about me. How the heck are YOU? I'm dying to know.
FEATURED DETAILS: CHARTREUSE TOP // COFFEE MAKER // BULB SET // HAIRY SPIDERS // FLATS // BLAZER
Friday, October 18, 2019
LURVE LOAVE LUFF
Let's get right to it, shall we?
Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.
- Ainsley Romero // I stumbled upon the portfolio of this Austin, Texas native and she had me at hello.
- Pick-A-Pom Classic Beanie Topper // Now this is an adorable idea I can get behind! Swap a pom, anyone?
- "Sunprint 1" by Neicy Frey // There's no need to shake the moody blues if you get to stare at this beauty.
- Tie-Neck Top // What do you get when you mix chartreuse with scallops, then tie it in a bow? This top.
- Animalia Passport Case // A passport case like this is enough to send your wanderlust in overdrive. Meow!
- Coin Clutch // I'm thinking this stunner with a painted monogram has my name ALL over it. Gimme.
- Neon Stripe Coaster Set // Unleash your inner Monica Geller and request that guests use a coaster?
- Sydney Balloon Sleeved Pullover // If you see a size XS pop up at your local store or online, call me!
- Apple Sweatshirt // Since I can't wear this WWF cutie, you better believe I ordered one for Max instead.
- Gwen Slingback Flats in Satin // I laid eyes on these yesterday and I haven't been able to focus since.
- G&T Illustration // This adorable sketch is a friendly reminder to myself that we need more Hendrick's. Stat.
- How to Think Like a Great Graphic Designer // It's about time I dive into a non-parenting related book.
- Slow Progress Notepad // This seems to be my current motto for motherhood. I think I can, I think I can.
Have a fabulous weekend, m' dears! Make it count.
Thursday, October 17, 2019
THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS
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| VIA MELANIE JOHNSSON |
FEELING: I got the flu shot last week (my second time getting the vaccine) and in the days following I started to get a bunch of cruddy side effects. First, it was a nasty cold, then my body ached and my stomach was upset. Maybe nausea is a coincidence, but I felt like total crap and ended up taking a nap on Tuesday afternoon which is a rarity.
THINKING ABOUT: I've mentioned a little bit about Max's recent behavior toward me on the blog, but I've been hesitant to post more in an effort to protect him. He's getting to be at that tricky age where I need to be careful "sharenting." I don't want others to be able to create a narrative regarding my son based on what limited information I've chosen to provide on my blog. What you see or read here isn't the full story and I'm sure most of you understand. That being said, the past two months have been some of the hardest I've experienced since becoming a mom. I've felt incredibly sad and defeated. I've looked for outside help, read books, talked to family/friends, etc. I've also tried my best to be proactive in taking care of myself in the process. But what if juggling it all felt like too much and I finally had to break? Well, that's exactly what happened last week. Despite all the resources and advice, I was reminded that Max is just as stubborn today as he was four years ago (NEWS FLASH!!). I asked his doctor a handful of questions regarding our most recent experiences and her diagnosis was that he's tenacious AF. Nothing new. Max is just Max. While his behavior (specifically toward me, his safety net) might be normal for his age, we agreed it's totally unacceptable. She also reminded me that we don't get to parent the child that we might have been when we were younger. That would be too easy, right?! I suppose it had to get really bad before it could get better, but we've been working REALLY hard to nip all this in the bud and I feel like we're finally starting to see some results—even if that means he's having to earn each and every toy back by monitoring his emotions, showing respect, and making good choices. There's no one right way to be a mom and the majority of the time it doesn't feel as magical as you'd like (birthdays and holidays aren't exempt). Raising a good human is hard work and when that individual is strong-willed, it can feel even more difficult. When you know, you know. For the first time in a while, I feel a glimmer of hope again. Phew!
THANKFUL FOR: What do you do when you want to be a playful mom despite the aforementioned behavioral issues sucking the life out of you? Spend $20 on a pair of giant spiders and smack them on the front of your house, that's what you do! In all seriousness, these things are flipping adorable! Who can say no to five hairy feet of fun?!
READING: Here are a handful of articles I've got open on my iPhone's browser that I think you'll find entertaining...
WATCHING: The season finale of Succession was last Sunday night and I feel a little bit empty inside now that it's over. Are you a fan of the show? Did you tune in? I'm kind of dying to discuss the details with someone. Ha Ha! Those last few minutes were epic and make me wonder how long I can wait for the Roy family's return to HBO. Any word on season three?? Ugh, I don't think I've been this invested in a non-Bravo show since Shameless. It's. So. Good.
EATING: While shopping at Terrain last weekend with my mom and Flyboy, I had an ice cream sandwich, specifically The Black & White, from Weckerly's and holy wow was it amazing!! I'm already plotting our next visit to PA, which will more than likely require a pit stop at the brick-and-mortar shop in Philadelphia. Ice cream sandwiches are one of my weaknesses, and this might be the best I've ever had. Coming from a serious sweets connoisseur, this is a BFD.
LISTENING: When we were leaving Virginia a few weeks ago after visiting my parents, I made sure Max and I stopped at Trader Joe's so we could pick up a few of my trusty pantry favorites. Initially, I went in for things like Cashew Fiesta Dip and Halloween Joe-Joe's but also left with a nugget of wisdom that's stuck with me since. The sweet young cashier noticed I was purchasing a few house plants. She went on to share that she's obsessed with growing all things green and we connected over our mutual love of shrubs and seedlings. Plants make people happy, right? The girl went on to explain the Japanese term, Shirin-yoku, or forest bathing and the benefits of being surrounded by plants. She loved that Max picked out a plant for his bedroom and explained that her appreciation for flowers and trees started when she was young as well. Her enthusiasm was contagious! Now every time I water all of my plants, I think of the joyful TJ's employee and the idea of Shirin-yoku. Isn't that such a lovely sentiment?
LOVING: We got Max this Adjustable Grey Bean Bag Chair from Crate & Kids for his birthday and he's been thoroughly enjoying it. Despite being a fairly practical present, he can haul it from room to room whenever he pleases, punch at it when he gets angry, and flop down on top of it during quiet time. I was slightly hesitant to buy it because it seemed pricey for a bean bag; however, I like that it serves a handful of purposes and can be easily washed. Not to mention, Beesly believes we bought it for her and has been seen using it as a luxe super-sized dog bed. Anything for the queen.
How are you feeling today? What are you up to? Thanks for stopping by!!
Wednesday, October 16, 2019
WHAT I'M WEARING WEDNESDAY
Here's a simple momsemble for those days when you might not feel one-hundred percent yourself, but you've got to roll up your sleeves and do the mom thing anyway. Thankfully, you can still feel cozy and look cute in the process!
MY GO-TO GET SHIT DONE GEAR:
Friday, October 11, 2019
LURVE LOAVE LUFF
Let's get right to it, shall we?
Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.
- Circus Tent Stripe Wallpaper // Ever since Mackenzie used this in her baby's closet, I've been obsessed.
- Clear Bookstand // Talk about a super chic way to display your favorite books!! Bravo Assouline!
- Dutch Orange // This Farrow & Ball shade is aptly named. Wooden shoes and cheese wheels, anyone?
- Veja Sneakers // Okay, are these spendy sneakers really worth the steep price tag? They're awfully cute.
- Warhol Sconce // Swoon! I love all of the color combinations, but the pink and red duo reigns supreme.
- Matisse Leaf Print Poster // A simple print that speaks to my soul. Henri Matisse, you have my heart.
- Leather Tool Box // Slightly ridiculous, but fun to look at—I'm digging Industry West's leather trinkets.
- Danielle Kroll's Blog // In this week's corner of Internet happy, I encourage you to visit the artist's blog.
- Painted Dot Ruffle Top // I was hoping to try this on at the store a few weeks ago. It's dainty and darling.
- Lodge Coat in Naples Yellow // I'd be happy if it stayed in the 60s forever, but when it does get colder I look forward to dusting off my beloved sunny Winter jacket. Afterall, J.Crew does YELLOW very well.
- Red Ramya // This bag is a real stunner, but its size is kind of a big setback for me. Oh, but the lining...
- So Glad I Found You Card // Max saw this on my computer screen and asked, "Is mommy a detective?"
- Lila Pillow // Of course you had me at hello with the color duo, but then you go and add fun poms. Sigh.
- Francis Eyeglasses // I tried these on at the store just for fun and it was a dork's dream come true.
- Cheetah Dots Apple Watch Band // Now THIS is an adorable watch strap. I've been in the market for one!
- Dreamscape IV by Kathleen Jones // I love when Furbish has online pop-ups featuring new-to-me artists.
- Color Story Bulb Set // I try to stick to white lights, but can we talk about the charming packaging?? Gulp!
Have a fabulous weekend, m' dears! Make it count.
Thursday, October 10, 2019
THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS
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| VIA |
FEELING: Max got a ton of new Lego sets for his birthday. It's great until you realize that you'll be the one actually building them. I spent almost two hours creating an arctic helicopter on Tuesday morning only to be reminded that there were four more boxes to go. No, thank you! Needless to say, I told Max he'd need to wait for his dad to come home to join in on the fun because I had zero interest in working with any more plastic bricks. Thankfully, I found out that Flyboy finds the activity to be incredibly relaxing, so I'll be letting him tend to all future Lego duties.
THANKFUL FOR: I was sitting at Starbucks yesterday working on my blog and overheard two widows talking about the loss of their spouses. From what I gather, they're part of a support group. I had no intention of being nosy, but their conversation hit me like a ton of bricks. Sometimes you get so used to having your person there or proving your independence in their coming and going that it's easy to forget to treasure it ALL (the good, the bad, the routine and the monotonous, etc.). I've known Flyboy for over 19 years and I couldn't imagine a day without him. He's my constant. Immediately after leaving the coffee shop, I sat in the car and sent him a simple text to tell him how much I cherish him. My heart goes out to those two women. They were so strong and probably had no clue how their stories impacted me, but I'm grateful for the subtle reminder to hold the ones you love a little tighter.
THANKFUL FOR: I was sitting at Starbucks yesterday working on my blog and overheard two widows talking about the loss of their spouses. From what I gather, they're part of a support group. I had no intention of being nosy, but their conversation hit me like a ton of bricks. Sometimes you get so used to having your person there or proving your independence in their coming and going that it's easy to forget to treasure it ALL (the good, the bad, the routine and the monotonous, etc.). I've known Flyboy for over 19 years and I couldn't imagine a day without him. He's my constant. Immediately after leaving the coffee shop, I sat in the car and sent him a simple text to tell him how much I cherish him. My heart goes out to those two women. They were so strong and probably had no clue how their stories impacted me, but I'm grateful for the subtle reminder to hold the ones you love a little tighter.
THINKING ABOUT: We're taking our FIVE-year-old to his annual wellness check today and he's oddly jazzed about getting shots. Last year he witnessed a little girl screaming at the top of her lungs when she went to get her vaccinations and because Max was chill about the whole thing, he ended up getting to take two lollipops home. Every now and then he likes to remind me of this act of bravery, and I suppose he's eager to prove himself again. In fact, I should probably consider slipping a few Dum Dums into my purse in the event the nurse this year isn't feeling as generous as the one last October. Lord knows the kid is betting on two lollipops!
READING: My latest library haul of children's books was pretty epic and I'd be remiss if I didn't share the titles with you:
WATCHING: I love me some Gwyneth Paltrow. As a devoted fan, I'm slightly embarrassed it's taken me so long to watch her new series, The Politician, on Netflix. Have you tuned in? What are your thoughts? The reviews are pretty mixed, but the chic wardrobe and Wes Anderson vibes make me think the critics have it all wrong. Oh, and if GP is triggering for you, listen to Dax Shepard's podcast with her as the guest. You'll get it over it almost instantly, I promise!
EATING: The past two times I visited Terrain's cafe, my beloved cauliflower sandwich has been MIA from the menu. What the what?! I've inquired about the topic and have received two different responses. It's time I get to the bottom of this mystery because its cruciferous whereabouts cross my mind at least once a week. If it's gone for good, I need to move on and get some closure. I know it probably sounds like I'm talking about the end of a relationship, but things got pretty serious between us this past year. Here's hoping the delicacy will make a comeback!
LISTENING: When I picked Max up from preschool on Monday, he came running out of his classroom fastening his little plastic pilot's wings to his t-shirt. I asked him how his day went and was surprised by his giddy response.
Max:
"I made a girlfriend today."
Me:
"Oh, you mean your friend that's a girl?"
Max:
"Yes, I let her touch my pilot's wings."
Me:
"Easy does it, Maverick!"
I wouldn't be surprised if he went on to tell her that he was a "naval aviator" just like Pete Mitchell. Ha Ha! Six weeks into pre-k and it feels like the kid is practically getting married. This is all escalating so quickly. I can't deal.
LOVING: The sixty-degree temps make me *think* Fall is here to stay, which means I finally get to wear this Schoolboy Sweater Blazer. The tipped edges make this preppy staple a momsemble no-brainer. Something tells me this little guy is going to be a workhorse with its ability to make any old t-shirt and jeans look polished with minimal effort involved.
How are you feeling today? What are you up to? Thanks for stopping by!!
Wednesday, October 9, 2019
LIFE'S LITTLE DETAILS
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| "THE DETAILS ARE NOT THE DETAILS. THEY MAKE THE DESIGN." — CHARLES EAMES |
Happy Wednesday, m' dears! Long time, no see. Let's jump straight to the details...
- Since we last touched base, Flyboy was out of town for work, Max and I visited my parents in VA, and then our favorite guy returned from his civilian training a few days earlier than we expected. You could say it was an October miracle! In his absence, the child and I were struggling BIG time, so help from my family and FB's premature return was clutch. No one reads a book called The Explosive Child for funsies. Ha!
- As evident from the photos in today's post, I've done my best to inject as much fun and color into the past few weeks as possible. Even when things felt rough around here—and it did— I found solace in working out, getting dressed, watering the freshly aerated lawn (per Mr. Mow It All's detailed instructions), planting mums and celosia, visiting a local pumpkin patch, checking out the latest at J.Crew with my mom, and visiting a few NoVA trails with my parents. The sanity checks helped split up this bout of solo parenting.
- Upon FB's return, the boys spent some quality time together this weekend attending a workshop at Home Depot along with the Dover NASCAR race on Sunday afternoon. After FB's deployment earlier this year, we've noticed that Max has been greatly affected every time he has to leave again for work. He has no real sense of time and tends to act out in his dad's absence. It's rough but understandable.
- Yesterday was Maxwell's FIFTH birthday. How did we get here? Where has the time gone? It seems like just yesterday that I tried to soothe a colicky baby and the next minute he's sharing cupcakes with his preschool class with newfound confidence and joy. Everyone likes to say the days are long and the years are short, and honestly, it's the truth! Some days are REALLY long, and I'm just grateful we actually made it to five years. Hehe! Some of you have been following the blog since I was pregnant in 2014 and I sincerely thank you for humoring and encouraging me throughout this journey. It's made all the difference!
Alright, enough about me. How the heck are YOU? I'm dying to know.
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