Links. Likes. Loves.

July 10, 2015

Photo taken in Savage Forest, Maryland

This week I curled up on the couch and fell asleep before 9:00 pm, and let me tell you it was glorious. Just glorious I say! Once Baby Lo was tucked in bed for the night I said “Goodnight dishes, see ya tomorrow basket full of a laundry, and, ha ha ha, yeah, I will pay you over the phone, bills,” and I curled myself up in a ball under a blanket and drifted into a beautiful sleep. I think my mind and body needed it and guess what? I did not miss a thing. Everything I said goodnight to waited for me in the morning. Here are this week’s top Links. Likes. Loves.

The Cognitive Benefits of Doodling – I think this article was made for me, since multiple times a week I hand co-worker’s drafts back with my edits and have to apologize for my drawings that accompany them.
50 Most Beautiful Places in Maryland – Even as a proud MD girl I did not know all these fine gems existed within our state. My travel bucket list just got longer.
The ROI of Social Media – I have been trying to explain this for years, but then Gary Vaynerchuk goes and says it all beautifully like this and I am all over here like, “Yeah, what he said!”
Princess Charlotte Christening: Official Photos Release – I have always had a found interest in the Royal Family. It started with Princess Diana. I even had a paper doll set, as a child, that I will always wonder if it was or would be worth money. Too bad no one knows where it is!
Knickers – They do exist – Because, I need a good laugh and these did the trick. No offense, but do people buy these? Do they wear these?
19-Year-Old Makes $100K on Etsy for School – When there is a will there is a way and when there is $100K in your bank account we all be like, “Holla!” You go girl!
Madwell Panama Hat – I want, no I need this hat!
Which Color of Nail Polish Best Matches This Shoe? Noooo!!!! Not again, please, not again. Left though!
15 Whimsical Photos That Bring Kids’ Imaginations To Life – The Mermaid!
This Shirt – Because Anthropolgie is having a Summer Tag Sale with an extra 20% off!

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Wednesday Wisdom

June 17, 2015

Without getting into too much detail I must say the past three weeks have been like a giant tornado. I feel like I am grasping for items, while trying to stay grounded as the wind comes swirling around me. There have been so many ups and downs and so many tense, stressful, sleepless nights. I have contemplated my purpose, contemplated my worth and contemplated how to do it all and keep everything a priority. Basically, I am complaining right now and basically I am spent. Life is so unpredictable. I know this. While, I whine about the chaos and sadness that has been a part of my life, I am reminded just how lucky and blessed I am. I know that my crazy, chaos would be welcomed by someone who has it far worse. When I get super down on myself I look around me. I have a roof over my head, food in the refrigerator, a great support system, a loving husband and sweet, healthy, baby girl. I am grateful. For these things, life is good. No, life is great.

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Dear Graduate…

May 26, 2015

Dear Graduate…

Congratulations. You have reached a milestone in your life. This is a big accomplishment. Celebrate, smile and be proud. You are one step closer to your goals. One step closer to your dreams. One step closer into what was once the future but is now becoming the present. And with that, please keep that in mind. Life is… a present.

I remember my high school graduation and college too. I felt so eager and so ready to tackle the world. I was naive and green as they say. I wish I knew then what I know now. Although, I think everyone says that as life goes on. I am sure in ten more years I will look back now and shake my head at today’s me.

I, just like you, made mistakes and continue to make mistakes daily. I am no martyr. I am just a human who has a few more years under my belt. Life has a way of opening your eyes as you get older especially once you leave the comforts of your classroom, say goodbye to friends, walk away from sports, drive away from your home and embark on your own path in life. Today you begin focusing on defining who you are as a person and where you will go.

Never stop learning. Be eager to learn and absorb. No one ever said, “That is it! I am done learning all I need to know.”
Manners go a long way. I repeat, a long way. Being polite does not make you a suck-up. It makes you likeable.
There is a reason why they say, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” Seize the moment!
Networking. Success in life is all about meeting people and knowing someone at the right place and time.
Luck… it does exist too.
Do not Reply All. Learn email etiquette.
With that said, email is not the same as texting. Practice using proper grammar and complete sentences. It is appreciated. Proofread!
Don’t assume everyone is your best friend and don’t assume everyone is your enemy.
Actually, just don’t assume.
Young men, always open the door. Chivalry does not have to be dead.
The left lane is for passing. Please, drive in the right lane. Don’t hold people up.
Yes, the world is yours but it is also everyone else’s. Entitlement gets you no where. I repeat, no where.
Selfishness is the root of most of the world’s problems. Consider others when you consider yourself.
Invest in yourself. Put a little back for a 401 K. Be diligent on saving. Even if it is $10 a month. You will be mad and annoyed with your first few paychecks, but you will learn to get by without it and then one day you will thank yourself.
Life does not revolve around your smart phone. Put it down every now and then. Look around you. Take life in through your senses versus your fingertips.
Treat yourself. Every now and then, indulge. Buy a cup of overpriced coffee, a pair of expensive shoes, a new watch or a new piece of wardrobe.
Believe in yourself. Think about those you believe in. I bet they all know their self worth.
Respect yourself. Love yourself. You have to first do those things before anyone else will.
Speaking of love. When you finally find the “one,” treat them well. Respect them and say ‘I love you’ every day.
Put yourself out there. You may get hurt but no one ever found happiness without first being vulnerable.
Every now and then do something that scares you. You cannot get over fear without first exposing yourself to the fear itself.
It is easy for life to get you down. When that happens look towards the small things in life. The big things will overwhelm you, but the small things are what make people smile and feel grateful.
Speaking of that, be grateful and say ‘thank you’ often. A hand written thank you is a lost art. Pick it back up.
Pray.
Learn to cook. Even if it is just scrambled eggs and grilled cheese. Pride can grow standing behind a frying pan.
Be a decent human being in life. Vanity will fade. Measure a person by their heart.
Wear sunscreen. Every person who has every had beautiful skin in their 70’s and over, all accredit sunscreen and water.
By the way, drink lots of water.
Thank service members. You can have any political stance you desire, but thank a service member and support them. Understand that the reason you can voice your opinions in life is because of them.
Don’t judge. We are a society that loves to judge. We love to beat the man or woman when they are down. Reach out a hand instead. Know there are two sides to every story in life.
Look people in the eye. It makes you confident and trustworthy.
Speaking of trust. You must earn it in life.
Give back. Even when you don’t have enough for yourself, someone always has far less. It will make you feel good.
Always, always dance. Especially at Weddings. Don’t be that boring bystander.
The blame game gets you no where in life. Be accountable.
Take chances. Those who succeed… took a chance.
Learn from your mistakes. Don’t dwell. Move on.
Life is not about money! Don’t expect to make a lot of money once you are done school. Expect to work hard and earn a living. That is how the world is supposed to work.
Speaking of money. Save for something big. Once you finally have earned enough to buy it, I promise it will mean so much more.
Things were harder for your parents growing up and even harder for your grandparents. Respect them and their views.
Make your bed! My goodness, if it is the only thing you do in a day. You will feel accomplished and after a long day when you are ready to crash. It feels so much better to pull back the sheet than to climb into a crumbled mess.
Find your passion. Life doesn’t have to be a boring ride. Love what you do.
At the same time, some of life’s best lessons come from pushing through something you don’t love to do. It will reveal that passion. Work hard. The reward is so much sweeter.
The word “can’t”… well, it should not exist.
Call your Mom and Dad. Visit your grandparents. As you get older you will appreciate them more and realize the sacrifices they made to get you where you are standing today.
Be authentic! People want to get to know you. The real you.
Laugh at yourself. If you can accomplish this then you are already miles past others in life.
Smile. Even when you don’t want to, just smile.

Congratulations graduate. Your adventure begins and the world is yours!

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Links. Likes. Love

May 15, 2015

This week has been crazy!! So, crazy that I ended that last sentence with two exclamation points. I am so looking forward to the weekend and not really having anything on our agendas. I am thinking it will be a great weekend to get up early, stop by the local bakery for some homemade doughnuts (they make ones with an icing dipped in chocolate chips and I am all like, “get in my belly!”), grab a coffee and take Baby Lo for a morning stroll. To me this little scenario sounds just too perfect.

Some of my favorite Blogs that I follow have this one thing in common. They share some of their favorite links from the week in a post going into the weekend. Since imitation is the highest form of flattery I decided to give it a try and see where it goes.

A baby, a Mom and a Professor. This story happened and I can’t help but think the world would be better if we didn’t draw lines in the sand.
This craziness happened this week and I just get so excited to watch things unfold.
Dadbod… yeah it is a thing and then this article came along and the skies opened and everyone was like, “Ahhhhh!”
I stumbled across this Etsy Shop. I seriously could get lost for days on Etsy. One click leads to another. I am eyeing up this shirt for Baby Lo and this headband!
I can be a germaphobe. There I admitted it. This little invention for a pacifier. Genius! I am buying one, no, five!
If you only click through to one of these, PICK ME! This video sums it up, Mommas. “Why it Sucks to be a Working Mom in America.”
I pronounced a name wrong this week in a meeting. I so, needed this article on what to do after you screw up professionally.
I am hoping to attempt this craft project this weekend. I have had all the supplies for weeks!
I am loving this dress by Zara. It just speaks to me. It says, “Meet me where the waves meet the sand!”
This gave me the biggest smile. We take so much for granted in life. These people are hearing for the first time and their emotions are beautiful.

Have a beautiful weekend!

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The Great Swimsuit Search

May 13, 2015

Lord help me. It is swimsuit season.

We got hit with a warm spell the last week or so and while I was happy to break out my favorite flip flops and tanks… it hit me. This chick HAS to buy a new swimsuit.

I HATE swimsuit shopping. I LOVE shopping. I HATE swimsuit shopping.

For men to relate I share this… It is like saying you can drive a car really fast, but you have to use your current vehicle no matter the make, model or year and you have to pull it out on a Nascar Track with all the Nascar drivers and their cars whizzing by. Some men would get super excited, some would look forward to it but most would still be super apprehensive. That is me with swimsuit shopping. I am over here like, “Hey, I will sit this one out.” I will be the gas can guy (you may only get that if you have watched a pit stop on Nascar).

Okay, seriously though, who goes from swimsuits, to Nascar, back to swimsuits. This girl.

This season I decided to toy with the idea of a one piece, so Baby Lo and I can have matching swimwear in the sand. Just kidding. I have always been super jealous and in awe of the women who can rock a cute one piece. There are some very cute and stylish one pieces out there.

Little did I know in my search that a common trend this summer season is strings galore. And, these in my opinion, do not relate to my statement above about ‘stylish one pieces out there.’ I seriously can’t stop laughing at these options. Not the models. Honey, you look fab. Sorta. I mean…

1) Holy tan lines! Seriously? People make fun of the “farmers tan,” could you imagine?
2) New term for string bikini.
3) Could you imagine washing this thing? It would take me HOURS to untangle. I would feel like someone cursed me with one of those crazy brain teaser puzzles as I tried to untangle a fabric ball.
4) I keep envisioning me as a package of cinnamon rolls. You know that moment when you undo the wrapper and push in on the package line to pop the seal then POOF! The rolls explode out. Yeah.

So, after my good laugh with these, I focused my attention on what I could handle. These options are winners in mind!

1. ASOS – 96.00 | 2. Victoria Secret – 48.50 | 3. Forever21 – 24.90 | 4. Nordstrom – 68.00 | 5. J.Crew – 118.00

Are you rocking a one piece this season? Do you think they are in style? If you found a great style, please feel free to share below.

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Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

April 23, 2015

Mother’s Day is quickly approaching and it holds a whole new meaning for me this year. Last year during Mother’s Day we knew we were pregnant but the secret was still too new to share with others. I often think back to where I was this time last year and am in awe over how quickly time moves.

As I mentioned, I was just a few weeks pregnant last Mother’s Day. I remember thinking, “Do I celebrate or not?” And, just thought I will let Nathan take the lead. That day we had plans with our families and as I jumped into the truck I noticed an opened card and envelope laying on the front seat. Thinking it was a card Nathan picked up for his Mom and needed us to sign I opened it, and just like a little kid who walks in on their mother wrapping Christmas gifts, I realized it was a card for me. I quickly placed it how I found it, but as Nathan jumped in the truck he could 100% read through my, “Card? What, card? I didn’t see a card” face. Later he revealed he had an intention on surprising me with a kayak but ran out of time that weekend. Yes, a kayak. The perfect gift for a newly pregnant gal! (In his defense, he got one for Christmas and we had all these visions of spending that summer on the water). I guess the whole pregnancy thing hadn’t quite sunk in for either of us yet.

1 – Secret Garden: Adult Coloring Book
For the Artistic Mom… Is this not the coolest? There is something therapeutic about coloring, and Mom, could use a little R&R no matter what form. If you go this route, don’t forget to pick up crayons or markers that she can call her own! Ain’t no’ body have time for sharing broken red and purple pieces with the kids!

2 – Philosophy: Amazing Grace
For the Fragrance Loving Mom… Such a feminine scent from a favorite beauty brand. Plus, who doesn’t love the name?

3 – TOMS: Women’s Classics
For the Mom Who Likes To Give Back… TOMS Mission, “With every pair of shoe you purchase, TOMS will give a new pair of shoes to a child in need.” TOMS come in a variety of styles and designs are super comfortable. Pick out a pair for Mom and feel good knowing someone else is benefiting from your purchase.

4 – Lilly Pulitzer: Cover-Up
For the Beach Loving Mom… Contribute to Mom’s beach vacation fashion with this perfect cover-up. Have fun and throw in a pair of sandals and a cute fedora. I am eying this one up.

5 – Amazon: Equil Smartpen 2
For the Techie Mom… Like to doodle? Who doesn’t? Here is how this bad boy works. Basically it is a digital pen, that is connected to your iOS, Mac, Android and Windows devices via Bluetooth. You can share your creations to iCloud, Dropbox, select social media sites and more.

6 – Etsy: Laptop Sleeve
For the Traveling Mom… I just adore this traveling sleeve for a laptop or MacBook. I am also a big fan of soft colors and anything on Etsy. It is functional and a homemade gift, so not every Mom on the block will have one.

7 – Anthropologie: Iridescent Jar Candle
For the Spa Going Mom… I adore this candle mostly because of the color. That blue just speaks to me. Throw this in a basket with some bubble bath and a new robe and tell Mom to shut the bathroom door, turn on some music and kick her feet up in a bubble bath. And, don’t you dare interrupt her!

8 – UncommonGoods: Succulent Living Wall Planter
For the Green Thumb Mom… I can just a envision this on a beautiful brick exterior wall or inside a dining room wall with the sunlight streaming in. Who needs a boring watercolor painting when you can have living wall art?

Maybe one of these Mother’s Day gift ideas can work for your Mom or maybe you will go a different route. Whether it is a card or a getaway, a phone call or breakfast in bed, or heck, even a kayak… one thing is for certain, take time out of your day to say “thank you,” and be sure to let Mom know she is special and you care.

Happy Mother’s Day, early, to all you Momma’s out there.

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Wednesday Wisdom

April 8, 2015

It’s back. Wednesday Wisdom coming at ya’.

There is a quote that my Dad often says to me in times of chaos, stress or anxiety. You may have heard it before. It is pretty famous.

“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” – Reinhold Niebuhr

You know you would think after all these years that I would know that when I turn to him out of worry or just to vent he would repeat the words above. I mean he is a man of few words to begin with so I don’t know why I expect more. Worry and stress never seem to fleet me and yet instead of learning my lesson and just saying those words in my head, because you know, I have them memorized, I still find myself turning to him. Maybe the comfort just exists in hearing his voice say the words. Yeah, that is it. I am going to go with that.

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March Favorites

April 6, 2015

Hey, April, Hey! Seriously, can you believe we are already into a new month? We are officially 1/4 of the way through 2015! Yes, 1/4 of the way! It is super cray, cray (hip way of saying crazy).

My beauty picks for the month of March are slim pickings, but don’t let the quantity fool you. These three items pack a mean punch. So, much so, that instead of waiting to share, I decided to move forward with this post. As a new mommy, with a three-month old, I don’t have much time for lengthy regiments and I am not spending much money on myself these days. Instead my investments are in the form of wipes, diapers and cute little outfits that make me giggle in delight. The last time I got this excited over clothes was when Mattel started making hip Barbie clothes and I would go shopping with my chore money. The point is these items are all at a very affordable price point.

1 – Coconut Foot Creme – My absolute new favorite beauty item! I declare this product a miracle worker. Here is the gist. Cute shoes – check, Painted toenails – check, Pretty feet – cricket, cricket… Somewhere in the last few years I developed cracked heels. They become terribly tough and dry through the winter. Then when the weather finally turns around and I can break out my sandals, I feel slightly insecure. This cream, or should I write, creme (read it with a British accent too. It just makes it sound better) showed its power very quickly. In just three days I noticed results. I just lather up my heels and then wear a pair of socks to bed. So, easy!

2 – Prime Time Foundation – This product had been sitting in my bathroom cabinet just waiting to be used and now that I am using it I am so sorry I ignored it for so long. Really, Prime Time, I am sorry. See I typically use another primer brand and when I found myself out of that product last month, I turned to this here bottle. And, to the rescue she came! Why I am referring to Prime Time as a human and a female, I don’t know, but please play along with me. Here is how she works… apply a small amount to your face after moisturizing but before you apply your makeup foundation. It makes your face so smooth and provides an even texture making makeup last longer and look less cakey. I tend to have drier skin, so this product works for me. Although, if you have oily, I have heard mix reviews.

3 – Jergens Natural Glow Foaming Daily Moisturizer – Get yo’ tan on girl! That is what I said to myself as I starred at my legs. You could see my veils. Seriously. That is how pale I was! With the forecast actually showing 60 degrees, I know I needed to take some action. I picked up this bottle without any investigating into self-tanning products. I literally just grabbed her (there I go again) off the shelf and went on my merry way. Luckily, I am surprised with how much I like this product. After three applies I have noticed a difference. It no longer appears like I am wearing white hose! It is the quickest and easiest self tanner I have used. Tip: Apply a little moisturizer to your wrists, knees and elbows before applying, that way you don’t get and odd coloring in those locations.

That is all folks! Have any must-try, must-buy beauty products? If so, feel free to comment.

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Looks For Less

March 28, 2015

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I have a slight obsession with jewelry. Now before you roll yours eyes at me, please know this obsession does not impact my husband or our wallet because while I am all for accessorizing, I am also all about not spending a fortune.

Costume jewelry is much more my focus. Take me into Tiffany and Co. and yes I will smile and gawk at the jewels before me, but take me into a pop-up accessory store and I will jump up and down and scream like the audience members when Oprah announced everyone was getting a car.

In fact, I was walking through the hallway at work this past week, with a statement necklace on and someone stopped me and said, “I love your necklace! Kendra Scott, right?” (I had no idea who Kendra Scott was. Now I do.). I stopped, thought about telling a white lie and nodding my head yes, but instead replied, “Honestly, you won’t believe it but it was a Payless Shoes accessory find.” The kind woman replied, “Honey, you got yourself a knock-off!”

LEFT: Forever21 – 7.90 || RIGHT: JCrew – 99.00

LEFT: Tiffany and Co. – 650.00 || RIGHT: Baublebar – 28.00

LEFT: Banana Republic – 34.99 || RIGHT: Alexander McQueen – 365.00

LEFT: Charming Charlie – 8.00 || RIGHT: Barneys (Irene Neuwirth) – 3,080.00

How insanely close is the last example? I can’t get over the similarity visually and then to see a price point of $8 versus $3,080?!?! Say, wha!! Explanation point city happening right here. Moral of the story – you can look extra chic for extra cheap! Happy Shopping!

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Wednesday Wisdom

March 11, 2015

Is it just me or do Wednesdays seem to really be a breaking point in the week? I think it is the momentum from Monday crashing with the excitement of the soon-to-be weekend that leaves me feeling unrest. I had so much fun putting together my first Wednesday Wisdom post and promised more to come. Not every week, but when the time felt right and darnit… the time feels right.

So, if you are fighting any internal battles, not your best self or are searching for the words to turn your day, week or even month around; hopefully, one of these may strike your fancy and bring a new attitude and pep in your step.

Here is to Wednesday! May you be the catalyst for great things ahead.

By the way, the last picture is by far one of my top favorite quotes! It just makes me smile.

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