WHAT I'M WEARING WEDNESDAY

COZY CAMP COVID ESSENTIALS:

Quay Australia Don't @ Me Blue-Light Blockers $49 via Amazon

Feeling Feelings Sweatshirt $40 via Brighter Fun

Chaser Neon Jogger Pants $50 via Nordstrom

Tatcha The Kissu Lip Mask $28 via Sephora

Turban Knot Headband in Gingham $14 via J.Crew

Essie Expressie Nail Polish in Bolt and Be Bold $9 via Target

Domino Magazine "The Color Issue" $20 via Amazon

The Upside of Being Down by Jen Gotch $19 via Amazon

YETI Rambler Mug $25 via Amazon

Capri Blue Volcano Candle $32 via Anthropologie

Poppy Rugby Socks $38 via KULE

LURVE LOAVE LUFF

Let's get right to it, shall we?

Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.

• Fire Tiger by Scott Sueme // A new-to-me artist I thought I'd introduce you to this week for some inspo.
• Stanton Pendant Light // A quirky pendant light that is giving me major beach hat vibes. I'm smitten, y'all!
• Pink Diamond Lumbar Pillow // I can't get over the intense shade of pink in this pillow. It's so gorgeous!
• Lemon Tropez Glasses // I only want to drink cocktails from tumblers with relief polka-dots from now on.
• Milk Moisturizer // I've yet to try anything from this vegan line, but I'm intrigued by the rave reviews.
• It Will Not Be This Way Forever Print // A print with a message that seems apropos right about now.
• Waterfall Bead Earrings // Shimmy and shine! These colorful and dangly earrings belong on a dance floor. 
• Slim Studded Cuff // The brass studs on this acetate cuff are so fun! I could see myself wearing this a lot.
• Short-Sleeve Cashmere T-Shirt in Rugby Stripe // I'm really glad J.Crew brought back this wardrobe staple.
• Tufted Inflatable Pool // It's going to be almost 80 degrees today. Time to dust off the inflatable pool!
• Mini Skirt in Gingham Tweed // You had me at grosgrain and brass buttons! The hot pink trim is everything.
• Brass Rhino Beetle // I can't help myself when it comes to big brass bugs. They're kinda my weakness!
• Hula Girl Fringe Tutu // Ever since I saw this, I knew it was going to be a need for our darling Poppy.

Have a fabulous weekend, m' dears! Make it count.

THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS

VIA

THINKING ABOUT: To be completely honest, all I want to do right now is hold my niece Poppy! She's got the sweetest little cheeks that I can't wait to kiss. Not to mention, all the photos make it seem like she's the perfect little snuggle bug. You guys, I can't seem to focus on anything else! It's like Raising Arizona up in here. "GET ME THAT BABY!" 

FEELING: Yesterday was heavy. It was the first day that everything started to sink in, and I just felt really sad. My mom left Wednesday morning for Missouri to meet Poppy and to help my sister and Justin adjust to their new normal. Originally, the whole damn fam (minus Flyboy, because work) was going to load up in my parents' car and make our pilgrimage to MO, but because of COVID-19, plans changed and it's disappointing. Max already knew what toys he was going to pack in his suitcase (mostly dinosaur figurines to teach Poppy), and I had a mental blueprint of how I was going to help my sister organize Poppy's closet. Obviously, we're aware that we're doing the right thing by staying behind and social distancing, but like many of you who have also had to change or cancel plans because of the Coronavirus know, it stinks—plain and simple. I trust God has a plan. I hope it includes meeting my niece very soon!    

THANKFUL FOR: Since we've got plenty of time to "shelter at home," we're trying our best to complete odd jobs around the house. One to-do I'm especially excited to tackle is reinforcing the garden boxes in the back yard. We got fresh wooden boards that I hope to paint Tricorn Black (the same color as our shed). We'll place them outside of the boxes to support the old boards, which were starting to disintegrate. It's going to look soooooo good!
           

WATCHING: On Monday, Max realized preschool was canceled and he had a bit of a meltdown. With his body stretched dramatically on the side of his bed and his face pressed down on the mattress, he sighed, "I can't believe I'm going to miss Lunch Bunch!" Yeah, me too, kid! Me too. In an attempt to make things more uplifting around here, I suggested we buy Frozen 2 and the start of our week at Camp COVID began to improve. Phew! Thanks for the assist, Olaf!   

READING: I'm attempting to read Glennon Doyle Melton's latest, Untamed, this week and while I'm LOVING the book, it's taking me forever to get through it because quarantined children are extra high-maintenance. It's like Max forgot that he has a room full of toys and a big ol' yard in which he can run around because the moment I try to sneak in a page or two to read and he needs another snack or he accidentally dribbled on his sweatpants again. Hellllp!

EATING: There's a meme making its way around social media and like most memes, it's funny because it hits close to home. This one is a photo of a large cat noshing on snacks and it says something about eating all of your good snacks the first night of being quarantined. Yeah, we're all out of Cadbury Eggs and Skinny Dipped Almonds. As far as meals go, I think it will be a few more days before the "fusions" start to get interesting. Thank goodness we still have gin! 

LISTENING: While I type today's post, Max and Flyboy are playing basketball in the driveway and I can't help but smile. Yes, we're going a little bit stir crazy. Yes, I'm sad I don't get to go visit my sister and her baby. But the sounds of a dribbling basketball and the giggling that goes with it leave me feeling very grateful for what's in front of me. The uncertainty of this whole situation seems stressful, but in the stillness, there are little slivers of happiness. 

LOVING: Last night I remembered to spray some of this St. Tropez Bronzing Face Mist all over my mug and I woke up feeling a gazillion times better than I did the day before. Hallelujah! I started using this spray about a year ago, and it remains one of my all-time favorite beauty buys. You can't mess it up and it gives the perfect amount of color to your face. Coronacation has me rethinking what I'd bring with me on a desert island, and I think a bottle of this magic potion definitely makes the cut. The best part? A bottle lasts at least six months. Treat yo self.               

How are you feeling today? What are you up to? Thanks for stopping by!! 

LIFE'S LITTLE DETAILS

"THE DETAILS ARE NOT THE DETAILS. THEY MAKE THE DESIGN." — CHARLES EAMES

Happy Wednesday, m' dears! I'm struggling to find the right words to type because my mind is in a gazillion places. By the time today's post is published, Poppy will have joined us, which also means I spent the better part of Tuesday waiting by my phone in anticipation of her arrival. That's right, Corona-cation got a bit more exciting thanks to my sweet baby niece! Squee!! Like so many of you, we're doing our best to practice social distancing (AKA the introvert's Super Bowl). In an attempt to "flatten the curve," we're playing board games, watching movies, dusting off paint sets, building more LEGO creations, picking weeds, and trying our best to not think about how long this period of uncertainty will last. I know we need to just roll with things, but plans seem to change daily, which has also meant some disappointment for all of us. Thankfully, this precious bright spot has graced us with her presence and we're reminded what really matters!! I'm not entirely sure how COVID-19 will impact our trip to Missouri and when we'll get to meet this bundle of joy, but I'm praying it's sooner than later. I can't wait to hug my little sister and her baby girl!!

Enough about me, how the heck are YOU? What are you doing to pass the time?      

ALL DETAILS FROM TODAY'S POST LINKED HERE.

LURVE LOAVE LUFF

Let's get right to it, shall we?

Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.

• Forms by Virginia Chamlee // A new-to-me artist I can't get enough of. Loving the Picasso vibes!
• Yayoi Kusama Covered Everything in Dots // Fausto Gilberti's illustrations are precious. This is a must.
• Hermès Matte Lipstick in Rouge Casaque // A spendy tube of lipstick that might as well be a work of art.
• 8 in. Cylinder with Brushed Brass Interior // I wish I had a place to put this. The price point is fabulous!
• Topo Chico Reflection 2 by Luke Forsyth // This series takes me back to Texas—the perfect bubble ratio!
• Modern Shapes Door Knocker // Upgrade your home's first impression with a seriously sleek door knocker.
• Sunglasses Sleeve // Because your snazzy specs deserve to be stored in something cute too. Right?? 
• Satin Bow Pump // Hubba, hubba! This shade of yellow is ELECTRIC! I can't stop staring at these stunners. 
• Long-Sleeved Boatneck Tee // Ann Mashburn knows the classics. This striped tee must be a slam dunk.
• Pleated Midi Skirt in Stripe // I wish they made this in petite. I struggle with the midi length. Anyone else??
• Margin (Study) by Dan Covert // Another artist whose work made me ridiculously happy this week.
• Striped Knot Headband // Up your hair game this Spring. This headband is an absolute steal (under $15). 
• Caramel Air Heart Sunglasses // The perfect silhouette gets an update this April. The caramel is delish!
• Poppi Probiotic Soda // Thanks to Tatiana's Insta-recommendation, I'm giving this ACV soda a shot.
• Shine On Lip Jelly // It's got the glossiness of a gloss and the softness of a balm. Sign. Me. Up.
• Emerson Headboard in Kelly Green // Add an extra dose of cozy to any bedroom with this beauty!
• Oui Dessert Plate // Yes, I'm still obsessed with the collab! This would be adorable on a wall of plates. 
• Pink Eraser Set // Mr. Boddington always gets it right! This set of erasers makes me so happy it's silly.
• Booty Call Card // The perfect card to send to new parents. Booty calls are about to get real again!

Have a fabulous weekend, m' dears! Make it count.

THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS

BY VIRGINIA CHAMLEE

THINKING ABOUT: Congratulations Daylight Saving Time! You win. AGAIN. Maybe by admitting this, I will feel compelled to get up with my alarm and work out in the morning? I feel like such a slug, but I'm so stinking tired when I wake up. Spinning would obviously help improve my overall energy level, but morning Ashley disagrees big time. My goal is to give myself some grace, but get back at it next Monday. Anyone else share a front-row seat on the struggle bus?

FEELING: If you're ever feeling zapped (creatively, emotionally, etc.), hop on over to Uprise Art or Artfully Walls. These online resources, which feature the works of countless artists, will be an instant upper. I promise! This past week was a tough one and when I sat down at my computer on Tuesday with a blank stare on my face feeling uninspired and lacking motivation, I hopped on to both sites and discovered a few new-to-me artists whose works left me smiling and giddy to check out more from their portfolios. It's also pretty fun to pretend which pieces I'd buy if I could!

THANKFUL FOR: Unless baby Poppy decides to surprise us sooner, my sister will be induced on St. Patrick's Day evening. Eek! With everything that's been going on, I can't tell you how elated it makes us feel to have something so wonderful to look forward to. One moment Flyboy expresses his excitement about becoming an uncle, then Max rattles on about taking his cousin fishing (along with the importance of keeping her away from the sharp hooks). It's just really sweet to think about how our family will change for the better and the genuine joy that comes with adding a baby to our brood. Squee! In just ONE week, I'll get to add the title of "aunt" to my resume. I am verklempt.            

WATCHING: Over the past few weeks, the Internet has been abuzz about Netflix's series Love is Blind. Have you watched? Already committed to a handful of Bravo shows and The Outsider on HBO, I didn't have a chance to tune into the reality TV series as soon as I wanted to. Curious to see what it was all about, I sent out a few feelers to my parents and sister in the event they were watching but didn't receive much feedback. Ha Ha! Then, this past weekend, while visiting with my dad, he began discussing the series and I couldn't help but crack up. Along with the Real Housewives of Atlanta, the man loves an unlikely relationship reality show—it's just one of the many qualities I adore about him. His critique of the show has piqued my interest and I'm more motivated than ever to keep watching and get caught up with him. Sure, the premise sounds pretty ridiculous, but it's really hard to look away once you get invested!

READING: Flyboy submitted his request to separate from the Air Force this week. I could tell he was a bit anxious about his decision, especially with all the ways the Coronavirus has impacted the airline industry, so I encouraged him to read a piece I printed out recently—one I plan to revisit whenever life feels uncertain and my default is to worry:

"There are so many ways anxiety manifests in our lives. But when it’s a product of the mind, it’s important we realize its desire to 'protect' us by falsely giving us a sense of control. The many 'what if' scenarios play over and over again to convince our body we are in danger, putting us straight into fight or flight mode. Because if we can predict, we can prevent or prepare. And that sense of control is what the anxious mind craves.⁣ 

But let’s get real here, most of what we worry about never happens. The track record is thankfully lousy, and anxiety pulls us from our intuition, feeling grounded, and mindful. It steals moments with our family and friends, sucks away sleep, and creates road blocks to doing the things we want to do. So our relationship with our anxiety is imperative. 

How do we feed it?⁣ We engage in the stories it tells us. We Google. ⁣We shame ourselves. ⁣We try not to have it.⁣ We believe the stories. ⁣We catastrophize. ⁣We let it make our decisions for us. We avoid because of it. ⁣We don’t identify the emotional experiences under it. 

How do we manage it? ⁣We create space for it.⁣ We treat it like a tantruming child, where we let it ramble but we don’t engage. ⁣We set boundaries around it, and work hard to train our minds to be present. ⁣We talk back and self-soothe. ⁣We calm our bodies down with deep breathing, exercise, and nature. ⁣We learn how to form a stronger bond with our own internal trust system. ⁣We don’t let it make decisions for us. We remind ourselves that these stories aren’t true. ⁣We identify the emotional experiences underneath, and feel those instead. ⁣

Because like anything else, we have to work with it in order to create real shift. And think of it this way: anxiety burns so much energy you either let it do its thing or use that energy to form a new relationship with it. Either way, it’s hard work, but make the hard work serve you." — Tory Eletto (@nytherapist) 

EATING: I accidentally bought a bag of dried tangerines from Trader Joe's. When I tossed them in my shopping cart, I thought it was the usual dried mango and continued making my way around the store. It was only when the cashier commented on how the dried fruit tastes like candy that I realized my happy accident. Y'all, these tasty devils are GOOD! I might actually prefer them over the mango. I can't wait until we return to TJ's next so I can stock up.

LISTENING: The sound of a deep belly laugh is the best! The sound of that genuine cackle coming from your child? Priceless. The next time you visit the library, be sure to check out Who Wet My Pants? by Bob Shea. Max was rolling the first time I read this clever children's book to him and he's asked me to reread it countless times since then.  

LOVING: I don't typically like to wear sneakers unless the situation calls for a pair, but these Tretorn Rawlins have changed me. They are so stinking comfortable and cute to boot! I opted for the pink-and-yellow combo because I'm not one to steer away from color. Surprisingly they go with everything and up the snazzy factor to any outfit!              

How are you feeling today? What are you up to? Thanks for stopping by!! 

CUTE COLLABORATION ALERT!

CV x ANTHROPOLOGIE COLLECTION

About a month ago, I caught wind that a Clare V. collaboration was in the works with Anthropologie and I've been in stitches ever since. Every few days I'd check out their inventory in hopes the collection was available. As many of you are already aware, the collab went live on Monday and the colorful selection of accessories, home decor, and clothing do not disappoint!! The headbands and teacups are an absolute must, but I have a feeling the travel tumbler, candles, and notebook might need to come live with me as well. How much CV is too much? I'm asking for a friend.   

Do you have any favorites from the collaboration? 

Shop more of the collection here.

LURVE LOAVE LUFF

Let's get right to it, shall we?

Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.

• Jelly Bean Bracelet // I just love that they named this sweet little number after candy. Adorably delicious!
• Yellow Chubby Hoops // Color and texture galore. I could see these hoops worn on repeat all year long.
• Bateau Tote // This stunner caught my eye and would serve as the perfect bag for Spring and Summer.
• A-Line Skirt in Matelassé // Another punchy color combo that can be paired with a matching jacket.
• Abbie Slide Sandals // I can't wait to dust off these slides. The happy hues and dramatic bow are brilliant.
• Daisy Plates // Meri Meri is my go-to resource for party supplies. Their selection just keeps growing!
• Green Stripe Headband // Silly (nay, stupid) expensive, but boy doesn't she look precious on The Love List?
• Ocean Tears Cocktail Napkin // The warmer temps have me eager to sip on something strong porchside.
• Pip Pop Pow Play Mat // OMG! Ashley Mary designed the most fabulous play mat for this Aussie brand.
• Marfa Folded Note Card Set // For obvious reasons, I need to add this note set to my collection and stat.
• Regent Blazer // I hope this Kelly Green beauty goes on sale at some point because the color is gorgeous!
• Jacquard Stripe Pencil Skirt // Another slam-dunk skirt from J.Crew. Somebody buy this and wear it for me.
• Live Beautiful by Athena Calderone // This is one of the prettiest home design books I've seen in a while.
• Le Specs Feline Fine Sunglasses // I'm guessing "Feline Fine" is a modern version of the classic cat-eye??
• Blue Espresso Cup // A pop of Yves Klein Blue to wake you up each morning—almost as effective as java.
• Port & Polish Pillbox // Who knew a pillbox could be so chic and sophisticated? Time for an upgrade.
• Acetate Buckle Leather Belt // This contemporary cutie would be a fun update to any wardrobe!
• Colorblock Gingham Large Zip Pouch // Fact: A bag lady can never have too many pouches.

Have a fabulous weekend, m' dears! Make it count.

THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS

VIA ELLSWORTH KELLY

THINKING ABOUT: It was sixty degrees on Tuesday morning, so Max and I decided it was time for another friendly Nerf war outside. Based on my number of hits, I think my aim has improved tremendously because at one point he shouted from atop his playhouse: "Aww man, you hit me in the peanuts!!!" Yep, go ahead and file this under #boymomquotes.

FEELING: If you asked me a few years ago if I thought they should ever remake Jane Austen's Emma on the big screen, I would have told you that wasn't necessary. My girl, Gwyneth, nailed it back in 1996. It remains one of my top-ten favorite films of all time. It's perfection personified. But, the previews for this new flick have me thinking I could open my heart to another option. Can you ever have enough Emma?? I'm not sure when I'm going to see it just yet (it's released in theaters nationwide tomorrow), but I may have to take myself on a little movie date in the coming weeks to see what this version is all about. Based on the snippets I've seen, the costumes and cast look DREAMY.   

THANKFUL FOR: Next Monday we'll go to Arlington Cemetery to see Flyboy's friend laid to rest. Several of his coworkers are flying into Washington DC from various bases to honor this man's legacy as well. Despite the circumstances, it will be nice to reunite with old friends. As many of you are aware, Swell Rio wasn't the easiest base to be stationed at, but with the remote location came close-knit bonds that will be cherished forever.          

WATCHING: This weekend we binge-watched The Outsider on HBO, and now we're all caught up waiting in anticipation for the finale. You guys!! I still don't know what I was thinking when I agreed to watch something Stephen King related with Flyboy. BIG. MISTAKE. HUUUUGE! I'm equal parts frightened and intrigued by the story. How will they put an end to the madness?? I can't take it anymore. Make it stop. Also, more Jason Bateman would have been nice. Just sayin'.

READING: A few nights ago at bedtime, I read Max a book entitled Grandpa's Stories. When I picked it up at the library, I thought the illustrations looked sweet—admittedly that was my primary reason for choosing it. I wasn't prepared for how moving this story would be for both children and adults. As the little girl and her grandpa make their way through the various seasons, I got a lump in my throat when the story took a sudden turn. It was heartbreaking, but a beautiful reminder about how we can remember those we've lost and the comfort that comes with our memories of them.  

     

EATING: Next week I plan on whipping up a recipe my sister's boyfriend shared with me. He made this salmon for my parents back in December, and they raved about the great flavor. Per Justin's recommendation, it's best to use Inglehoffer Creamy Dill Mustard in lieu of the dijon and mayo mixture used by chef Andrew Rea. It's an easy hack that amps up the seasoning. He also suggests roasted potatoes or asparagus as potential sides with the tasty entree. 

LISTENING: After my last Audible book, I asked for recommendations and ended up choosing Jojo Moyes' The Giver of Stars. If it's good enough for Reese Witherspoon (and my mom), then it's good enough for me, right?? So far I'm enjoying the story, but I've learned that it takes a few hours of tuning into a book before I feel super committed. I've never been the best auditory learner, but podcasts have helped me hone in on this skill and I've noticed there are some major perks to audiobooks as well. Right now I'm still trying to determine who I would cast as Alice if the bestseller became a movie. Perhaps Emily Blunt? Have you read this book? Did you enjoy it? 

LOVING: My mom brought the Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer Hot Air Brush with her to Missouri and now I know why it gets such rave reviews. I've used it a few times since and I'm impressed with the way it smooths my hair, which is usually pretty frizzy and requires a straightener or curling iron afterward. I try to rough dry my hair with a blow dryer prior to using this and then finish styling with the Revlon tool. Have you tried this dryer/volumizer?       

How are you feeling today? What are you up to? Thanks for stopping by!! 

LIFE'S LITTLE DETAILS

"THE DETAILS ARE NOT THE DETAILS. THEY MAKE THE DESIGN." — CHARLES EAMES

Happy Wednesday, m' dears! I know, I've kept you out of the loop for two whole weeks mentioning very little about my plans. I'm sorry! It was done with good reason, I promise. You see, my mom and I flew to Missouri the last weekend of February to surprise my sister and throw her a baby shower. The week leading up to our departure was a busy one with countless to-dos, and since I was afraid I'd blow the surprise by saying something about the trip on my blog or Instagram, I opted to stay off of social media. This led to lots of concerned DMs asking if everything was okay. It was sweet and comical at the same time. Rest assured, I just didn't want to blow my cover. For a family of oversharers, pulling off a successful surprise is unheard of. Frankly, I'm still shocked we did it! Ha Ha! Upon our return from Columbia, I had to get my ducks in a row in Delaware and didn't find time to blog last week as I hoped.  

Now that you're up to speed, here are a few details worth noting...

• We were in CoMO for less than 48 hours. I came with a duffle of party supplies that weighed 49 lbs. when I checked in at DCA and by the time we departed Missouri, my bag was 27 lbs. lighter. What can I say? I take festive paper products VERY seriously. Checking a second bag was totally worth it!
• Our family is TERRIBLE when it comes to taking photos, so there aren't many pictures to show for our time together. That being said, it was just as lovely anyway! I'm honestly grateful I snapped a few images to send to Flyboy to share with my dad and Max (they had a boys' weekend in Delaware), otherwise content for the blog would be nonexistent. Oops! I did manage to sneak in a shot of my mom on the shuttle from the airport. She was cracking me up and I wanted to remember the moment along with our snarky banter regarding our driver. He was an absolute NUT! It's not often that my outgoing mother (she will seriously talk to anyone) would rather hide in the back seat of the bus to avoid chatting with a stranger.
• I'm so grateful for the opportunity to join my mom on this trip, and I'm especially glad that it worked out like it did. I was sad to say good-bye to my sister (no amount of time is ever enough), but I look forward to our return in a few weeks when we get to meet Poppy. Seeing the nursery put together was priceless! The idea of my sister becoming a mom and holding her daughter in that sweet little space—surreal. As a kid, when we played with our dolls, I often dreamt of what it would be like when we both became mothers. If you've got a mom like ours, that role gets put on a shiny pedestal and you pray you'll be up to the challenge someday. Even as a little girl, I looked forward to us becoming part of that special club—the one where we get to be just like the woman who brought us into this world, learn what it means to love unconditionally, and best of all, experience it TOGETHER. As the oldest sister, I've struggled with knowing my place ever since Aub came into this World. My mom jokes that she had to remind me ALL the time that SHE was the mom to Aubrey, not me. I wish I could say that I got over that phase a long time ago, but I've always felt it was my job to protect her. While nothing can prepare you for motherhood, this is one of the few times in my life I'm not worried about my little sister and the challenges ahead. Sure, I wish I could be there to hold her hand or try to make her laugh, but the truth is, she was born for this. She already has everything her baby needs. She's exactly where she's supposed to be and when she calls because Poppy is being fussy and isn't sleeping, I'll be there as I always have, not to fix anything as I've tried to do in the past, but to reassure her amidst the newborn fog that she's doing a phenomenal job.
• Speaking of top-notch parenting skills, I asked Max to pose for a picture and show me "I love you!" in sign language so I could text it to a few family members. Naturally, the Starbucks we were seated at when I made this request was packed (it felt like we were right there in the middle of it all) when Maxwell's fingers got confused and he proceeded to accidentally flip me off instead. Yeah, the couple seated next to us got a VERY good laugh out of this one. See what I mean, little sister? I know nothing. ;)

Once again, sorry about the radio silence. What's going on with you? I'm dying to know.

ALL DETAILS FROM TODAY'S POST LINKED HERE.