WHAT WOMEN WANT. (this year for Christmas)

{image courtesy of charlestonclass.tumblr.com}

Well gentlemen. It's that time of the year again. Time to start buying gifts for that special lady in your life. Every. single. holiday. I hear complaints from men about how hard it is to shop for their girlfriend/fiance/wife and I JUST DONT GET IT. I, personally, think we are quite easy to shop for. SO I decided to grace you men with a "what women want" gift guide.
*disclaimer- these gifts are what I think women want and may not suit your gal- so use disgression.


Here are my top suggestions - in no particular order:

1. Alex and Ani Bracelet(s)

Why she wants it:
These bracelets are not only fun to wear but each have a meaning and can be quite heartfelt. This Cupid's Heart bracelet means love, joy, light. They have so many to choose from and so many different meanings. From her initial to a quote that means something to you both- they have so many options and she will love this gift! (also-they come in silver or gold)

2. Hunter Boots

Why she wants it:

These boots are waterproof, comfortable, and have inserts that are adorable. She will be able to trudge through the crazy weather and keep her feet nice and dry.

 

3. Tablet

 

 

Why she wants it:

If she spends a lot of her spare time on Pinterest or catching up on seasons of her favorite shows on netflix this is for her. I know I dream of Saturday mornings laying in bed watching shows on an Ipad, and honestly, what girl doesn't?!

 

 

4. Warm weather essentials



Why she wants it:
She needs to be warm and wants to look cute. Hats and gloves are always appreciated- same goes for fuzzy socks!

5. A perfume that YOU picked out

Why she wants it:
She wants perfume that you like. She doesnt want something that the sales person suggests...she wants you to think she smells incredible. Pick one out, she'll love it.

6. Sexy Panties

Why she wants them:
Because she wants to feel sexy and look good for you! Duh!

7. Something Thoughtful

Is your girl into Yoga? Maybe she likes to run? Maybe she loves to bake? Something thoughtful that relates back to a hobby or passion of hers is a sure way to win her over.


Well guys I hope all of these ideas helped- so get out there and get your shopping done early- oh yeah- and if you hate wrapping gifts check with the service desk at the store you are shopping at- some offer free wrapping ;)


Good luck and have a very merry Christmas!!!

Thankfulness.

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I have never been a HUGE thanksgiving person. I like it, but I LOVE christmas. This year I have been making an effort to not forget this holiday- because I really do think that its important that we acknowledge the things in our life that we are thankful for. It is so important and gives us a fresh perspective on life. I tried to state something everyday that I was thankful for but I didn't do well. I forgot many times- or just got lazy others. SO today.I.will.force.myself. to write 28 things. Because I think it is good to recognize our blesssing and because I believe that positive, thankful thoughts help other people to generate the same types of thoughts! I am all about positivity today people. SO here they are......

I am thankful for:

1.  LOVE. God's love. My husband's love. My family's love. It really is what makes this world go round- literally- and it causes us to act. and be better. its a good thing.

2. Jake. my support, bestfriend, comforter, we are a crazy pair- but are so so in love <3

3. Family- I know people always say this- so it seems like the right thing to say- but I really do mean it. My family raised me right, gave me a wonderful homeschooled childhood, and continues to support me as an adult woman. That means a ton. I have the most amazing parents and wonderful sister. I couldnt ask for better!

4. Our home. It is cozy and basic and just fine for now. I may complain about my neighborhood or the space- but we really are blessed to have a place to live.

5. my JOB. it can be intense at times. hectic. frusturating. ect. BUT praise God I have a paycheck and some wonderful co-workers. I really am grateful to have a job.

6. a WORKING fridge. this may sound rediculous. but ours official took a poo on us a few weeks ago- and we really didnt want to fork over the money for a new one because we knew we could get a used one if we waited- so we- my adult husband and I lived out of a mini-fridge for weeks. I am now SO grateful for a working fridge. :)

7. A little dog names Rex. My lab-pit mix baby. He is such a pain- honestly sometimes he drives me crazy between his allergies, and hyper approach that he overwhelms visitors with- but he is wonderful and loving too and I couldnt imagine my home without him. it would be horrible.

8. this definately should have gone earlier...but God's GRACE. I fail a million times a week- honestly- but it is so good to know that I am forgiven. - still working on living this out fully- and remembering to confess to God and let go!

9. living by the water. I live by Lake Erie- some of you who are familiar with the Great Lakes are probably cringing. I DONT CARE :) I love the lake. I love swimming. I love sunshine. I love the beachy vibes.

10. all 4 seasons. Thats why I live in Michigan?! I love to experience each season to its fullest. I honestly enjoy them all.

11. gym membership. EKKK!! I will be a member of the YMCA today. SO excited for workout classes in addition to my regular gym time. healthy = happy.

12. Coffee. not only do I love the taste but it starts out my workdays and gives me the jumpstart I need.

13. Clothes. I love clothes and accessories. If I had a little more spending cash I would be trendy 90% of the time. LOVE trendy.

14. life experiences. I have learned and lived so much so far and lookward to the future. experiences mold and shape you into the person that you are....and although I need tons of work....I am happy with the woman that I am becoming.

15. Music. although it used to have a much larger role in my life- leading worship, piano lessons at college, worship band, choir- I still love it. I still have a desire to lead worship again in the future. I love connecting with God in that way. Thats another reason I enjoy church- the music.

16. the last point leads me to Church. I have not been a "regular" attendee in many years but am starting to get back into going. Elevate is a local church that I really enjoy. I think that there is a bigger message out there for us if we just make the effort to go. I learn something everyweek.

17. my car. it gets me to work and back everyday. It may be racking up the miles- but its doing its job.

18. Children. I was a nanny for years and love taking care of them, listening to stories, playing games, ect. Kids bring so much joy into my life!

19. the internet. makes my life and- really everyones- so much easier- too much isnt a good thing- but moderation is everything. I can learn how to do basically anything from work projects to cooking at home with its' help. thank you internet.

20. my college education. yes I am still paying for it. yes I complain about that.. but I learned invaluable lessons and had incredible experiences that arent replaceable. I am so grateful for my Spring Arbor University education!

21. girlfriends. I dont have a gazillion of them...BUT the ones that I have chosen to keep in touch with are wonderful. I am so blessed to have my SISTER as my very very bestfriend- this is something that I treasure so very much. I really do love each of my girlfriends to pieces and am thankful for their advice, funtimes shared, and caring hearts. 90% of them read my blog too...so YES I am talking to you ;)

22. cookies, cake, and candy. I used to always tell my dad when I was a kid that all I wanted to eat was "cookies, cake, and candy" and it's still true to this day. I COULD live on sweets. I have the eating habits of a young child and have to remind myself that this is not healthy and force myself to eat balanced meals.

23. Pinterest. I know this sounds rediculous. but it really does motivate me. It makes me want to work out more, bake more, and be more creative. It is a relazing activity for me. I am grateful for the creators of this wonderful time waster :)

24. America. I am grateful to live in a place where I have freedom of speech and great opportunities. I love this country. I am patriotic unapologetically.

25. inspiration. How can I be grateful for inspiration?! How can I not- things that inspire us cause change and movement. Inspiration comes in many different forms, but it is what moves me to strive to be better. thank goodness for it.

26. current financial stability. I am not saying that things are perfect. I am saying that God Provides. thats it. amen. :)

27. this blog. I am no writer-but I do love to express thoughts and ideas this way. I am grateful that I know at least 2 or 3 people check in from time to time- and I appreciate your kind words!

28. Vacation days. I am grateful for work- and also for the days off that they allow. Vacation is renewing. revitalizing. and neccessary. It gives you a chance to reconnect with others and with yourself. I TREASURE vacation days...only two more work days until a long weekend. Yahoooo.

Mr. Gilbert's 25th - a post for him

Tomorrow Jake turns 25. My mind has been constantly stuck on what to get him. I want this birthday to feel perfect. I feel that 25 is such a BIG DEAL. For those of you that know my husband well, he is the WORST person to shop for in the entire world. I have ideas in my head of what I think would make a wonderful 25th birthday gift but I know in all reality not many things would get him all that excited. Although I am going to try to purchase him something, I know no matter what I buy...unless maybe it was a Powerstroke....he wont remember it in a few years or way later in life and it wont make a difference to him one way or the other- so- i decided to share a post about him. One that will celebrate his 25 years of life. This note will live on my blog- where he can visit it again while feeling discouraged, remembering what he has accomplished- and how appreciated and loved he really is.

Jake,

Happy 25th birthday. This year we celebrate a quarter-of-a-century of you! You have accomplished so much just since I have known you and have grown into a man. I remember when I first met you, I thought you were such a trouble maker- and maybe you were at times- but you were a fabulous dad and had such a heart for your family. Your family loved you so much as well and would do anything for you, as would many, you had a way about you that captured people's hearts and I saw that from the moment that I met you. Quickly you captured mine and I began to know the man that you really were. You have always been a go-getter. You would not settle for mediocre and you never have. You learned your strengths and have put them to the test through business endeavors and personal endeavors. You have grown stronger and stronger- and learned more and more about yourself. You win over people who meet you with your geniune personality and stand out no matter what crowd you are in. You are, without a doubt, a good time- encouraging people to live to the fullest and truly enjoy life. You really teach me to "be cool" ;) and let go. Of all the people I know, you have the strongest qualities of a best friend and a loyal person.  You are also such a natural with kids and a great dad. I am so excited to see where you are in another 25 years. I love you so very much. Happy Birthday my love!

Beth

 

 

Colder Weather/ Saving. and Advice for Married Folks.

It is finally feeling like late fall here in Michigan. I actually wore my WINTER coat to work on Monday because it was that chilly. With the season change I am, of course, thinking about what additions I'm going to be needing for my wardrobe. Also- I can tell I am becoming a full-blown adult, because I am thinking about things I need for around the house. (still my last priority, but it is on my radar ;))
While I am thinking about these things, I am still working on keeping a budget going and not buying items on a whim. I have decided that I am not going to be making any of these purchases until another paycheck or so, BUT I can share with you what is on my list and what items I think are a must for this season.

Colder Weather Must Haves:

Head wrap

Winter head wraps are so adorable and they keep you warm! I got one from Francesca's last year and I am still loving it.

Faux Fur- Trim Coat

 

 

This look is classic. It really doesn't seem to go out of style- and its great for cooler weather because the fur is like a built in scarf ;)

 

Classic Dresses paired with Warm Tights

 

 

This year I have every intention of wearing more dresses with tights over the colder months. Its better than work pants and knit tops Every-Single-Day. Agreed?

 

 

Good Jeans

 

 

I have no "winter" jeans that I love right now. I had a summer favorite- but they were cropped, so I am looking forward to getting a pair of these. and they are only $44.

 

 

 

So for now..I am saying for these items. In a couple weeks I hope a few of them are added to my closet!

 

One last thing:

 

For all of you married gals- I am reading a series that I think is great! 31 Days to a Better Marriage. You should check it out. Read one a day? Or all of them in one day? Either way I think that there is lots of wisdom to be read and digested from this series! Check it out and let me know what you think. 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

 

 

New Hair-Do {quick update}

Alright all. I am happy to say that I FINALLY cut my mane of hair off. I have been dreaming about shorter hair days since after the wedding but I knew that Mr. Gilbert claimed he wasn't a fan of shorter hair- so I kept holding off. I got to the point where I couldn't handle my tangled mess anymore and told him it was time. I warned him that it was happening and went for it.

As most girls do- I headed in with  "inspirational" photos of what I could only hope my hair would look like. I am happy to say it went great and I am happy with the results!

 

For those of you that have been contemplating shorter locks but haven't made the leap- let me tell you....

 

I can now do my hair from wet to styled in 30 minutes. It's virtually tangle-free now. and makes life easier.

 

SO If you have been debating what to do about your long mane and in need of a change let me encourage you to try a new shorter look :)

 

Hope you enjoyed this quick hair-update

 

and as always..

 

Have a Fabulous weekend!

 

 

 

 

JOY.

Good Morning All! It's finally Friday and I am so filled with excitement today. There are a lot of things that I want to say. Some things are legit on my heart and other things I want to share just because they bring me joy.

First of all: what's on my heart. I have been thinking about this lately and have to share- I am blessed to be a stepmom. Kids are what bring me the MOST happiness in life. I have always loved being a nanny and feel in love with a man {4 years ago} that had a little lady in his life. When I met her, she was only 2 years old and just considered me a friend or a playmate. As the years have went on I have became even more important than just that. I have became her stepmom. This role is probably one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. Each day we come across challenges and various obstacles-but this little girl reminds me of one important thing all the time. How important following Jesus is! She tells us about church and sings songs about God all of the time. She is my main encourager to go to church and I am so grateful for that! Sometimes kids can teach us a thing or two about life-and she continues to do that! Also- I am grateful for her mom and our relationship- I am thankful that I am so lucky to know them both :)

Secondly: I am grateful for all of the WONDERFUL Ladies in my life. Tonight I am looking forward to dinner with some of my favorite childhood friends and sister/friend :) AND for the past month-or more- I have looking forward to a reunion in about two weeks with my wonderful college roommates. These relationships are so important to me and I am glad to share some time with these gals.

Third:  but NOT least. Jake and I have been married for a year. It has been such a year of growth. I am soo happy to see us growing stronger as a couple and preparing (mentally at this point) for adding to our Gilbert Clan. SO excited to see how our relationship has grown and changed.

Finally: the last thing that I wanted to mention that is bringing me JOY on this beautiful Friday is the fact that I know I am getting a haircut next week. WAHOO. My dear husband loves the long hair-but it has to go. Shorter hair is what I need. Here are some of the ideas I have (NOT THE LIGHTER COLOR though): I want hair I can style. Hair I can get untangled. it is time.

Love the length. Like the look.

 

 

 

Love the long angled bob.

 

Alright Everyone. That's all for today. Things that are bringing me JOY today. Be sure to remember its the small things- and....

 

 

 

 

 

 

{all images courtesy of Pinterest}

 

 

My Closet {What's New & Re-Organize}

Last weekend my sister and I ventured off to Somerset Mall. Usually we just go to whatever stores are close-but we wanted to go somewhere different- so we drove a little further and made plans to make a half-day of it.

So here's a look at what I picked up on my trip.

{What's New}

Bejeweled Sweater

 

This little number is a fun way to dress up. I find myself wanting to wear hoodies every cold weekend-this feels like a hoodie-and looks like one with a little glam. I prefer this look with skinny jeans and a casual bun.

 

Frayed Spotted Scarf

 

I love this simple scarf. I have lots in my closet with heavy patterns and lots of color. I love the mellow color and minimal pattern of this one. It goes soo nicely with gold jewelry. Perfect for early fall.

 

Chic Lariat Necklace

 

I have been on a statement necklace kick for months. and I still do love them. BUT the simplicity of this necklace is stunning. It goes with just about anything and is a perfect work piece.

 

 

TOMS- Black Canvas Women's Classics

 

These shoes have been on my wish list for years. People had them in college and I loved the one for one movement and I thought the shoes were cute too-but I had no money! This year I was contemplating what casual shoes to get for fall. I basically had three-in my mind-to choose from: these, moccasins', or Sperry's. I had moccasins and Sperry's in my closet already- and I love what Toms is all about. So I went for these bad boys. They are actually really comfy and my favorite fall purchase this far!

 

 

{Re-Organize}

 

 

As I was putting away my new purchases, I realized that I have quite a few items in my closet. Some cute items, some not-so-cute things. My plan for this next weekend is to organize and donate whatever I am not going to be wearing. I read an article that said once an item is out of site in your closet you forget about it. I believe that. So I am going to check out what I really have in there and see how I can make the most of my wardrobe! I challenge you to do the same- I have already realized I have 3 Gray sweaters...that are basically the same! *side note-this trip was prior to deciding I was taking part in a short-term budget ;)

 

 

 

 

 

 

A "Fall-Ready" Home

This weekend I finally made it to Bath and Body Works to get some essentials to make my house ready for fall. I am on a semi-budget right now since I know we have our anniversary trip in a few weeks and a college roommate reunion in Chicago two weeks after that! I decided that I would spend around $20 and just get the house a little more cozy for the colder weather.

What I did with $25:
(technically $35 but they have a 10 off coupon out right now)

1. Wall Flower Bulb

This scent is amazing. It smells exactly like fall. I have it in my bathroom-which is next to our side door- when you walk in our home smells cozy. Its worth $6.50- but you do need the actual wall flower as well. (I already had one-they are around $5)

2. Mason Jar Candles

These are great-not only do they smell awesome, but candles give that relaxed vibe. I probably wouldn't have bought a candle with my budget, but they were 2 for $15. ALMOST buy one get one free. (retail price is 12.50 each) Its worth it. You'll love them.

3. Fall Soap

If you aren't going to get anything else fall for your house-at least get a nice scented soap. I opted for the Halloween version-its cute, decorative, and smells wonderful. $5.50 spruces up your bathroom instantly.

4. Scentportable

I love these for my car. I had a summer-themed one and now I have a fun Cheetah print Scentportable. They are around $5 and the scents for them are $3.50-my car smells delicious, I am definitely a fan.

So there you go- for under $30 you can have your home smelling and looking great for fall ;)

Making Time & Perspective

"Make time for everyone in your life. Make time for the walk in the park, the cup of coffee, the glass of wine, the phone conversation." - a post from Mary Schmidt.

I came across an article last week that was mentioned in another blog I read, the article is basically notes from various people the writer knows giving her advice of ways to live life at 25 years old. Some of the "notes" I loved, others I didn't care for-but the quote mentioned above stuck with me. We are now at an age that we are mature enough to know what really matters. We may not have it all together, but we are starting to get the right ideas. People in your life are the greatest gifts we are given. Making time for others, carving out time, is really what makes life worthwhile. It's all about perspective!

I was recently working on a list of fall essentials/shopping list for the change of seasons. The list began to overwhelm me, so I decided to make a "need" & "want" column to help me re-focus.  The funny thing is, once I did this I began to realize that there was not one item that I needed, but many things that I wanted. The stress that I felt came from this list began to melt away when I realized that the items on the list wouldn't change my life-
People and how we impact them is what really matters, time spend with family and friends is what makes our lives beautiful. All the "glitter" makes things fun, enjoyable, and memorable-and I enjoy things. You know I really do, or I wouldn't write about clothes and décor and stuff in general. I just thought today was a good day to remind us to put things into perspective! Enjoy the small things-because the rest is just "fluff" - fun and enjoyable-but just fluff. ;)

Called out.

Have you ever been called out, completely out of the blue, seems random- but there is no way is could be. It was almost fate? Well, that happened to me yesterday.

This past month has been a whirlwind of emotions for me.  My emotions have been everywhere and I really have used it as an excuse to be a mean, somewhat bitter person at times, telling myself it was okay.

Yesterday morning, when I got to work, I had an email from Lily and Light. I subscribe to her blog posts and think that are wonderful. Anyways- I was thinking about paraphrasing what she said but I think she said it better so here is the paragraph that struck me hard yesterday:

"the heart is more than a storehouse of emotion, but the powerhouse of our everyday living. when our hearts are in check, and we are in fellowship with God and others, we are on target for a blessed and joyful experience.  even if the day turns sour, we are in the most optimal state for coping well.  

but when we let that guard down and our hearts become open to the enemy, we lose strength, fast.  the heart becomes the breeding ground for fear, bitterness, pain and resentment.  we cannot find joy, satisfaction, contentment or peace.  we lose track of our schedules, patience and become poor stewards of our resources.  we engage in behavior that does not represent God, and we are at risk of being burned.."
{to read the entire post click here...}

Immediately I realized that it was not by chance that I got this post in my inbox during my very bitter morning I was having but it was meant to be. My heart hasn't been in the right place, seeking after truth and starting my day out reading God's word is what allows me to find freedom and contentment in life when things seem to be getting me down.

I was so encouraged by this and reminded to get back on track.

Store Spotlight

 

Alright all. As you may, or may not, know I just lovveee TJMAXX. I honestly think you are missing out on something if you do not shop at this store. They always have current trends and great prices. And although I can get MOST of what I need/want there - sometimes I crave a good, old boutique-type shopping experience and that is what Francesca's Collections is for! I have only known about them for about a year and I cant get enough of what they have to offer.


They have unique and fun clothing, accessories, home décor, gifts and more.

Here are a some items that I think are absolutely adorable.

Parker Anorak Jacket

 

I love how casual and fun this Jacket is. (the inside has an Aztec print too)

 

Salina Embellished Top

 

The embellished shoulders give this casual shirt a dressier look. This makes this shirt work/go-out ready. It makes it versatile and I love that!

Newman Stud Ankle Bootie

 

More studs. I really cant get enough of this style boot.

 

Bleecker Street Triple Strand Necklace

I love how simple this necklace is and how you really could pair it with anything.

 

Nile Beaded Bib Necklace

 

Bold statement necklaces can still make an outfit and this one would be a fun/edgy addition to any collection!

 

 

 

 

I hope you guys enjoyed this store spotlight. Let me know what you think in the comments section below!

 

 

 



Guy's Picks

Alright Ladies-

Today I have a really fun post to share with you guys. This morning I am filling in at Jake's shop and have been on Pinterest all morning long. I decided to ask the these guys if they could pick some outfits out that they like on the site. I had to keep reminding them that we were not looking at the actual girls but their outfits. The three guys commenting are: Jake - my husband, Jon - his friend, Gary - his co-worker.

Here are their picks:

Gary - He likes the bright color. Jon also likes this outfit but mostly because of the sunlight? Or maybe the dark hair. These boys...

Another Gary pick. No explanation on this one, but he "likes it".

"I would love to see a girl dressed in that" - Jon "that's just cause you like the boots" - Jake

"I really like that pink sweater" - Jon

"hmmm, I like that" - Jon

I'm not sure if he was referring to the open back or the dress, but he was a big fan.

Hope you gals enjoyed this special "Guy's Picks" post. Hopefully they will participate again and I can post some more of these :)

Have a beautiful Saturday!

Change

I sincerely believe that change and growth are healthy signs. I have been wanting to update the overall look of my blog and finally decided to do it. The content will be the same but just the overall look, oh yeah, and the NAME has changed. I have decided to rename this space "Glitter & Gab" mostly because I like to focus on trends or the "glitter" in life and whatever I else I want to gab about, so I think this name is really fitting. The design I found was from an Etsy shop called Bella Lu Lu Ink. Check her shop out if you are looking for an uplift as well.
Any-who, I just wanted to let you guys know that this place will still serve the same great posts it always has just in the form of a new look and name.

Have a great weekend ya'll and remember that some change can be good for you ;)

Babies & Enjoying this Moment

I will be honest. I have babies on the brain lately. Every. single. person. I know is having kids. (okay-maybe not everyone-but you get the point) And I love hearing this news and I love the fact that this is happening for so many wonderful couples that I know!
I love spending time with children. That is why I spend two days a week making a little extra money, to spend time with two crazy twin girls that show me how to see things through their eyes and enjoy the little things. I have always loved spending time with kids and knew one day I would have some of my very own.
However, God made it clear over the past year that I was not meant to have a baby at that time and I realize that He knows best and it wasn't the right time. BUT as things are coming together and I see the time approaching where this might be a possibility it is hard for me not to be consumed with the idea of having a little one. and by this I mean I am doing a terrible job of not letting it take over my mind. (and God bless my husband for dealing with all my thoughts and excitement about the idea) In reality I do know that when the time is right this will happen. I remind myself of these thoughts and beg myself to keep focused on what I have going on know and enjoy that. For you ladies that can relate, you know what I am talking about here!

For this moment, and forever, I am enjoying my best-friend and husband, my energetic and growing-up-so-fast stepdaughter, my family, and my fur-baby Rex. They all make up what I know as life and I am so thankful.

One day, maybe soon, maybe not so, we will add another one to this Gilbert-clan but until then, I am enjoying this moment.

Pre-fall Clothing Inspirations

I don't understand where summer went...its mid-August and that "crisp" feeling is already in the air.
There are a lot of reasons why I am okay with this. 1. my wedding anniversary is in the fall- the memories that come along with it gave me a new appreciation for the season. 2. I love the cozy scented candles that come along with the season. 3. hoodies are my favorite thing to wear. and sweatpants. not something to brag about but I wear these basically whenever I am not at work or going out when its cold out.

So here are some of my pre-fall favorites for you guys:

1. VS hoodies.

The #1 reason I am still about PINK hoodies- you cant wear them forever and I'm 24. Think I could wear these in my late 30s and look cute? Not so much- this is a young thing and I'm gonna rock them while I'm young. (bad/good news: Someone told me I look like I'm 16 last week...so I'm sure I look young enough ;) )

2. This look in general- jean tops, long skirts, relaxed and comfy/cute

Work Version

 

 

 

 

 

The great thing about this look is TJMAXX carries literally everything pictured. For under $30 per each piece of clothing. I dug around there last weekend and found tons of jean tops, skits, funky patterned dress pants, and more. This place really is the best source for anything on trend-trust me-try it out.

3. Fur-Moccasins

Weekend Outfit- from my Pinterest "Ideal Closet"

 

I have been wearing these for yearsss and I don't think I will get go of them anytime soon. They are the most comfy weekend shoe ever.

 

 

These are just a few items that I deem essential for fall! So think of these as you are shopping for next season. I am sure I will be posting more are Fall gets closer!

 

 

 



Latest Read & Things I'm Loving [right now]

{reads I am enjoying right now}

Intentionality is a huge part of married life. We covered this in pre-martial counseling of course, but now after almost being married 1 year now you start to see how true this really is! I recently heard about the book The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman on a blog I follow and decided I wanted to read it. I went to the library to grab a copy and there was a 4 week wait! Yikes! So I grabbed another marriage book by Gary Chapman called The 4 Seasons of Marriage and it was great. I walked away learning that each stage of marriage can quickly change so you have to be intentional and proactive about growing with one another and staying in the "summer" season. It also touched a bit on love languages and how to understand your partner. I really do recommend this book to married couples and those thinking about marriage, it is realistic and helpful!


{things I am loving right now}

Summer is almost over and I am trying to savor every minute. I am still loving a lot of summer trends and thought I would share a few with you guys.

1. Maxi Dresses-

I will be honest, I am NOT loving all of the current styles out there. But I do love these:

It's called a "Flounce Maxi"

 

I recently got one of these at a local boutique and I LOVE the fit. The one I got also has a low back, which makes it super cute. and a crazy pattern on the top, which I couldn't resist ;)

 

 

2. Nude Flip-flops

 

 



These are really the go-with-everything you own shoe. I have worn these with everything from a t-shirt and shorts to dress pants and a nice top. They also have them at Kohl's for $15 on sale. These really are the most practical shoes I have bought all summer.


3. Sexy Hair Straight Smooth & Protect Flat Iron Hairspray

I just tried this out last week when I got my haircut and think its fab. It's kinda pricey but worth it. It really did smooth out my hair and make it shiny.

Alright, well that's it for today. Have a great week ladies!

 

4th of July {mostly outfit inspirations}

I love holidays. I love families and/or friends getting together. I love the excitement that comes along with holidays. The fourth of July is probably my second favorite holiday.I really enjoy the food, fireworks, the fact that its warm out, celebrating our great country ect. It just feels like the ultimate summer celebration and I adore that. Another part that I love about this day is that it gives you an excuse to dress super cute! I just wanted to share some inspirations for this years 4th that you are sure to love!

OUTFIT:

 

 

 

 

I love these subtle looks....soooo cute!

 

I have been searching Pinterest for days trying to figure out what to wear and fell IN LOVE with the headband look so I started searching for one.

I found the item below and wanted it, but it was SOLD OUT :( so I continued my search on www.etsy.com

I found the headband below for $10 and will receive it before the 4th if ordered today.

 

https://www.etsy.com/transaction/138166482?ref=fb2_tnx_title

 

I am very excited about my purchase and am thinking about wearing it with a white lace tank and torn jean shorts!

 

EARRINGS:

 

http://www.lollyella.com/

 

 

NAILS:

 

There are so many great options, but this design stood out to me. ANNDD you can wear this after the 4th and still look adorable.

 

 

DRINK:

(this one isn't the actual recipe, but looks adorable- "Champagne Bomb Pop"

 

 

(This one is the actual recipe)

 



Who doesn't love a Bomb Pop?! Let alone one with a little twist to it!

 

Recipe:



Bomb Pops!! 2 oz Bacardi Razz rum, 2 oz lemonade, 2 oz Blue Curacao. It tastes just like the popsicle!