Forever Fierce

February 19, 2018
Beauty


Happy Monday lovelies!!  It is a great day!  I am so excited to be sharing with you not only my idea of what I think it means to be fierce in midlife, but the ideas of a few thousand other ladies as well! Yes, you read that correctly.  Today is Forever Fierce Day and I have collaborated with 50 other bloggers; who just happen to be fierce sisters!  We all have asked a few friends, neighbors, and even family members to share what they think.  Read all of their stories here #Foreverfierce.  Is midlife the wrong side of 40?  I don't think so, actually I know it's not!  So I am asking you today too... what does being fierce in midlife mean to you? 



Below are the things I have discovered in midlife:

I let go of the drama that people surround themselves with.  I embrace the changes in my body and still rock a bikini.  Gravity is inevitable, but self esteem and pride in your life is priceless. 

Skincare has always been important to me and I continue to take good care of my skin.  Adapting to the changes has just meant adding a few new items! 

Wisdom is grand; with age comes the knowledge that it is sometimes better to observe rather than speak.  Changing my diet has been a huge benefit!  I eat more fruits and vegetables and have cut out processed food.  About 6 years ago I switched up totally and became mostly vegetarian. (With the exception of sushi of course).  So technically it's called pescaterian.  

Happiness is something that you are; a state of mind.  I have been called brave for my journey and I'll take that with my head high!  I was brave, still am actually.  If you read my post, Life Begins at the end of your Comfort Zone then you will see that I may have been down, but I am now back up and empowered!  My passion burns brighter than my fear and I am full of drive and motivation and I won't get in my own way.  Change is always on the horizon and I choose to grow with it.  I will reach again for what is in me.  I will fiercely forge a new path and set out on it - boldly, while making no excuses.  









 So, tell me...what does fierce in midlife mean to you?  Click here to join the movement! 

New Year New You

January 12, 2016
Motivation





Wouldn't it be great if the midnight ball drop really did hold the power to reset our internal button?  That this button would be all it takes to inspire us to commit to change in the coming year? Even the new year's resolution naysayers have to admit, the dawn of a new year brings hope.  Always keep in mind that whatever time of day, whatever time of year. . .you own the power to change your thinking and make minor adjustments to create the best you.  If you have decided to make the commitment to a new you in 2016 you will have already gotten the ball rolling. Regardless of what the upcoming year has in store for you, your style is and always will be a reflection of you.  It's time to take control of your wardrobe.  It's time for a call to action.


Tackle the Closet
Clean out and reorganize your closet and start the new year with a fresh perspective! I am just as guilty of this as the next woman, but when I finally do clean out my closet, I find a handful of "new" outfits that are just as exciting as purchasing something new. I like to color coordinate my closet from lightest to darkest, moving left to right.  Sometimes it's as simple as rearranging hangers; suddenly two items end up next to each other and it's magic.  You may have never thought to pair them together until you visually see them side by side, then voila! New outfit!

Standing and staring in your closet with the feeling of nothing to wear is pitiful.  We have all been there too many times.  The truth is, you have plenty to wear you just can't see it through all the clutter hanging there.  The only logical thing to do is go shopping.  But logic is not your friend right now. . .sensibility and brutal honesty are.  Why sensibility you ask?  Because shopping when you have not a clue as to what you need, let alone what you really want, is a bad idea.  I will give you an example....out of everything I own in my closet and the tons of shoes I have, I cannot for the life of me understand why I don't own a crisp white button down or a pair of nude pumps.  Those are classic staples that every girl should own and now I know what I need to shop for.  Making honest purchases rather than impulse purchases is also important in maintaining both your budget and your closet space.  That's valuable real estate in my closet and I don't want to waste it on insignificant items.  Make 2016 the year your finds are selective and with purpose - this prevents you from overbuying as well!

Your closet is bursting with clothes and you just need to find them.  The fact is you probably need less clothes, rather than more.  Take notes while you clean out your closet of the items you are missing and when you are ready to hit the stores it will be that much easier.  You can read what staple items you need here.  For investment items you can read that list here.  Don't forget your undergarments need freshening up too.  Just because no one sees you in them doesn't mean you don't deserve to have pretty skivvies!  It really does make you feel good about yourself when your under clothes are as pretty as your outer clothes. 

Dream Items 
 Is there something you have been lusting over?  Dreaming of?  Maybe it's the Cartier Love bracelet, or your first pair of Louboutin.  I am seriously considering this bag.  What ever is on your list make a plan and stick to it.  Start a creative savings plan to make it yours in 2016.  Divide the cost into however many payments you can comfortably save each month and start saving!  It may take you all year to save for it but it is, after all, an investment piece you will cherish for a lifetime.  I shared a great savings plan here for 52 weeks. I think I am going to do it again this year too. 

Blog Planning for the New Year

December 30, 2015
Motivation




If you're like me you have more than the end of the year on your mind.  There's new years eve, sale shopping, un decorating, and lets not forget blogging.  I know what you're thinking.... I can't add one more thing to my plate right now. Well now is the time to  get re-inspired, brainstorm new ideas and type of content you want to deliver to your readers in 2016. 
Today, I thought I’d share some of the items I’ve included in my new 2016 blog plan, and how you can write one of your own.

I broke it down into manageable bites to make it easier to customize it for your own blog. 

Why?  The most important question in blogging.  What is your own personal take away from blogging?  If you answered this with "I want to quit my day job and have a viable income to support myself", or " I just wanted a place to share all my fun ideas and be creative", then you have the why!  When you started blogging it may have looked drastically different than it does now for you so think carefully about what it is you want in the coming year.

Now that you hopefully have the Why...... take a look at your blog and take open notes about what you like about your blog and what you want to see change.  I'm not necessarily talking about designs either.  I'm referring to content as well.   Make a list about what you would change; maybe it's the sidebar content, or your sponsorship, whatever you see write it down. Don't stop just with the visual part either.  Your social media is very important and if you are wanting to step up your game you need to make it part of your blog plan.   Determining the look for your blog in the new year will help you see your blog plan better.



You have the Why; now lets talk abut the what.

What worked this past year for you and what didn't turn out so well? Look for any connection between the why you blog and what works for your blog.  If sponsorship is important and you want to make money then you have a direction. It worked for you!   If you tried it and it wasn't any fun because so much in involved working with brands then you cross it off.  This makes your vision for your blog much easier and you can align yourself with your goals. 

The Planning Phase

Hopefully by now you have a clearer picture of where you want your blog to go and taking it there should be much easier; now to get down to the details.


Mission.  What is the mission for your blog?  Do you have a mission statement? If not you should.  For example a part of the mission statement for The Blog Guild is to create, connect, and collaborate. You can read the entire mission statement here.  Having a mission statement will help with your blog vision.


Creating Content.  Part of your plan should include a list of your topics and categories.  Maybe you have an entire tutorial you want to share.  Break it in to sections and create a series.  Start making a list of all your topics that would be relevant to your blog brand.  Some of mine are fashion, style, beauty, and DIY.  Once you have your categories then break it down even further into sub categories. For example under beauty there could be product reviews,  beauty tips, organic products.  You get the idea.

Education.    So let's say you want to add beauty to your blog in the coming year but you don't feel like you are 100% on your tutorial.  Better educate yourself on the topic.  Watch you tubes, make appointments at cosmetic counters; you can pick up some great tips from the ladies at the counters!! Practice.  Before you know it you will be ready to start sharing.  Make that part of your blog plan to set a deadline for when you will integrate the new topic on your blog.  We will talk more about your blog plan with your editorial calendar later. Take a photography class. Sign up for a workshop, or maybe there is a conference convenient you can attend.  Use the tools you have available to up your game.  Did you sign up for The Blog Guild workshop?  It's the perfect way to start off your new year and learn all about pretty images to share on your social media and flat lays. And Since we are speaking of social media that brings me to our next topic. Take a photography class. 

Social Media.  There are so many ways of sharing and how and what you share is equally important.  Engagement is critical.  Being available to your followers is important.  Try to answer questions and thank someone when they ask a question or comment.  Let them know you appreciate them.  Decide what you want to post during the week and have all your pics edited and ready to go on Sunday evening.  I had a plan this past year to grow my instagram following; watching the followers grow was exciting.  Increase how often you post.  If you are not posting every day then start.  If you can aim to post 2-3 times a day, but if you're not even posting daily then shot for once a day to start with! Engagement is critical for your current followers as well as potential new followers.  Brands like to see you engage and are always checking so if you are planning to, or currently monetizing then keep this in mind. That brings me to the next topic. 

Monetizing.  Pay attention to this one, its tricky.  If you are already monetizing that's great.  If it's working good then see what you can do to step it up.  (See previous paragraph regarding social media and posting regularly) If you want to start this year monetizing there are platforms like Reward Styles for your blog and Like to Know it with instagram, there is also ShopSense but I don't work with them so I am not familiar with them but know several bloggers who are successful with them.  You can reach out to brand and pitch an idea to work together. Be precise with your pitch and what you expect from the brand and what you will deliver.  Get it in writing is always important. I recommend you research the legal aspects to income streams via blogging and make sure you adhere to the disclosure laws.  If you do choose to work with brands this is something you would add to your blog plan with your financial expectations and show how much you would like to make each quarter and how you will make it. 

 New plans.  Ok, so we have pretty much covered everything bit growth.  Your plan is great and it sustains you for the year but you have to add new projects for growth.  There are several ways to increase your audience. Do you currently have a newsletter?  Entice your followers to sign up by letting them know you are sharing things different than what they find on the blog.  Again, attend a workshop to learn a new skill.  I can't tell you how much I value the investment to attend a I Heart Blog Shop class.  I learned how to really use photo shop and it increased not only my skill level but my confidence in my layouts.  Did you sign up for The Blog Guild workshop yet?  You can find out more about it here. 

So are you ready to start planning?  You can write it out however you want. I am a paper kinda gal but Paper, word, Google docs, whatever works for you.  Don't worry, your plan will look different from everyone else's.  It should be unique to you!  There are other elements you may incorporate into your planning.  Traffic, networking and creating connections to only name a few. 


Taking the next step.  Research the class you would like to take; signup!  Block some time and explore with your camera and learn all about what you can really do with it.  Look in your community for other local bloggers.  We have a fantastic network locally we all connect with; The Blog Guild. 

Reflecting on Blog Goals

December 28, 2015
Blogging

It's hard to believe that 2016 is just around the corner.  With every one's calendar full with holiday parties and festivities sometimes we forget to take a look at our blog goals.  This is the opportunity to take a look at your blog goals and assess what worked and what didn't.  Having a blog business plan is important and if you did write one at the beginning of the year now is when you should re-visit it.  If you don't have a blog plan well that's okay too, next week I am going to show you how to create your blog plan.

  • What goals did you set?
  • Which goals did you meet?
  • What didn't work out and why?
  • Is your vision still in alignment with your goals?
 
Falling short of your goals doesn't translate into failure.   I think people give in to feeling like a failure for not obtaining the goal.   Maybe you just need to tweak a few things and put that goal onto your new years goals.   I am going to share one of my goals from this past year and yes, I did not reach it.  I set a goal to have 1K instagram followers by the end of the year.  Seemed simple enough right?  Yeah... that didn't' happen. I currently have 905.  Close, but not there.  Life happened and I got busy at work and then forgot to post what was going on... etc, etc.  When November rolled around and I could see that the possibilities of having a 115 sincere followers didn't seem obtainable so I took a look at what I could do differently to help my goal.  Reaching my goal wasn't as important as what I learned along the way.  I took a look at what I was doing and made a few changes and started noticing my following engagement not only changed but grew.  (If you don't follow me and feel so inclined to, you can right here)  Maybe halfway through the year you decided you wanted to work with brands and take your fun blog to the business level only to find out you really didn't want to after all.  That's okay.   But what I did learn was that this is my blog/biz and I will and can tweak the plan along the way as I see fit.  Being able to look at written goals helps you keep track with where you want to be in 12 months. The race isn't the run, it's in the journey. 

Take a break during the end of year hustle and bustle and spend a quite moment with your blog plan and your goals from both the last year and the upcoming year.  But let's also applaud you if you did reach all your goals!  Pop some corks and celebrate, you deserve it!   




Pin this for later and refer to it as a reference once you have time to really spend some time reflecting.

Stylish Women over 50

December 01, 2015
bags
I recently read a great article by Who What Wear on older woman and fashion (you can read it here) and it got me thinking. . . so I decided to share a few facts and misconceptions about style and age. 

"Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak." Rachel Zoe


Confidence is sexy as hell.  Yup, that's right.  A confident woman isn't into game playing or needing a man to pay attention to her to have fun. She will pick up her own bar tab and might even refuse to let you get hers.  Why? Confidence.  She will walk into a room smiling and full of energy; she will have great posture and will walk with intent.  Often, 20 something gals will often walk in somewhat sheepishly with eyes searching for someone they know.  I would tell her to "fake it till ya make it, sista"!  Confidence comes from within and by the time you are in your 40's you have had enough life experiences and lessons to walk the walk!  What else happens with a confident woman?  You will be hit on by every Tom, Dick, and Harry. That's right girls.... the men are attracted to your beauty more in your late 30's to 50's then they ever were in your 20's.

Eye Cream is a Must.  If I have said it once here, I have said it a thousand times..... you are never too young to wear eye cream.  Trust me on this and go get yourself some. Your 40 something self will thank you.

The Twisted Road of Life.  You plan and you plan..... but inevitably, life happens.  There will be happy moments and unforeseen tragedies that will mess up the plan you have.  Stop trying to plan out your whole life.  You have heard the mile marker goals many times.... when to buy a house, start a family, move away, etc.   Whatever is in your plan, throw it out the window and start enjoying life.  Focus on the here and the now.  The journey is the true reward, not the plan. 

Life Long Friends.  I remember meeting so many new people when I was in my 20's – new friends were everywhere.  As you grow older, you realize you really didn't have anything in common with those people other than killing time together.  Then, you realize something even more profound, having a wide circle of friends isn't near as important or meaningful as having a small, close knit circle of friends.  Now, I'm not saying go out and dump everyone you know who isn't a close friend.  Those people are acquaintances and they play an important role in your circle too.  Trust your instincts and put effort and faith into the people who are worth having deep, meaningful friendships with beyond the surface; people that you can go months without speaking to or seeing and pick right back up with where you left off.  These relationships do exist, cherish them.




Buy Quality.  Whether we are talking household items or wardrobe items, this one is important.  If you want to be a grown-up then you gotta play the part.  It's easy to pick up items at Target and Ikea and trust me, we love them.  But there comes a time you need to truly be patient and save; invest in quality.  Mismatched, hand me down furniture has a time and place and generally it's college or your first apartment.  It’s great to outfit your closet and home with trendy and chic items, but it they are "cheap stuff" you will regret it in about two years if not sooner.  Pressed board, particle board, and veneers are all euphemisms for "It's not real wood.”  Bottom line here..... buy right, buy once.  Quality over quantity and it will last a lifetime.

You have a voice... know when to use it.  You have seen people that speak their mind and have, ultimately, tripped over their own words.  Having a voice and not having a filter are close cousins but not the same.  Speak up for what you think and believe in regardless of others’ opinions but do have a filter when it comes to how you say it and to whom you say it.  People deserve to see and hear the real you.  Scary? Yes.  Iinvigorating? Yes.  Don't fake it till ya make it when it comes to your voice and don't try to be someone else.  That just plain sucks.  Be heard for who you are!


If only I could go back in time and talk to my 20 something year old self.  What life lessons would you tell your 20 year old self? Are my life lessons the same as yours? Leave a comment and let me know.

Stripes and Plaid

March 02, 2015
arm party
Hello Monday!  Can you believe it is March already?  Spring will be here before we know it and I for one cannot wait.   I'm starting off this week with a cold outfit day.  As you can see it was freezing.  It snowed in KC the past few days and has been chilly. Unfortunately it doesn't appear that it will be warming up this week either.  But we could talk weather all day.... So how was your weekend?  Do anything fun?  I spent most of my weekend relaxing.  It was quite nice.  I caught a Modern Family Marathon on Friday evening, (Absolutely love that show)  then Saturday a few errands and my hair appointment.  Sunday was a lazy day too!  It's okay to have a few of those every now and again.  Today is my best friends birthday.... Happy Birthday Gayle!  Tomorrow my middle grandson turns 4 too.  March is a busy birthday month for me, two of my boys have birthdays too. 










Jean Jacket Gap (on sale) ~ Sweater Talbots, Similar top on sale ~ Scarf Express, no longer available but love this for spring and this one~ Jeans The Limited (40% off) ~ Lips YSL #26 ~ Nails Butter London ~ Loafers Nordstrom, Want these ~ Bag LV ~ Michele Watch ~ Inspiration Cuff and Meagen leather wrap Rustic Cuff ~ Love Bangle Claudia Rowe c/o 

50 x Fifty Update

July 31, 2014
bags


So my birthday is this weekend and if you haven't noticed with my recent wish list I am excited!  Yes I know, this is a milestone and I am okay with it!  It is a pretty surreal.  I have gotten so many surprised reactions from people when I tell them I am turning 50 that it has actually made me feel pretty good!  Just yesterday a new acquaintance I made wanted to know what eye cream I use because she could not believe it when I told her my age! Makes me feel pretty darn good! So I figured it was time for an update on my 50 x fifty list!  I still have several things to check off, but I did allow the list to be for the whole year not just up until my birthday.  

the one thing I really learned from this list is that it became something to reach for.  Obtainable goals o work into everyday life.  Several times my girls at the office have asked "so what on your list have you done, or what needs to be done? " It has been great and I may do a smaller version every year for goal settings! So here it is... the list! 

1.   Attend  "Blog Shop" preferably in person
2.   Visit Gayle, my bff She spent the long 4th weekend here during my staycation!
3.   Shop in the West Bottoms on First Fridays
4.   Finally have my Grandmothers barrel chair reupholstered
5.   Go on vacation in Naples  I sent Joe for three weeks and took a staycation... does that count? I think so!
6.   Complete the redesign and branding of my blog.  Keeping the design I love and the branding has been coming along well.
7.   Completely redecorate my Master bedroom (Picking paint now) Almost finished
8.   Do something just for me...every week  Loving this one and so doing it every week!
9.   Lose 20 lbs
10. Take a photography class
11. Girls road trip weekend
12. Invest in another designer bag I have it narrowed down... did you see my birthday list?
13. Clean out my closet (for real, deep clean what is never ever going to be worn again) DONE!
14. Take all the grand kids to the zoo Spent Mother's Day 2014 with them!!
15. Go to Dallas for the Weekend
16. Try Bangs... again!  Completed Feb 27 and I actually am enjoying them!
17. Take a yoga class  Woot!  The girls and I currently are in a class.
18. Make a weekly meal plan and follow it Working at it.. still needs a little work
19. Start a new linkup on my blog, Who wants to join?
20. Partner with more brands I love Working this one for sure and love all the new opportunities.
21. Have a stay cation
22. Create a gallery wall (Already gathering the pieces) Completed and on the blog very soon!
23. Take new professional blog head shots Done... but may take a few more.
24. Have my blog featured Thrilled this happened here and here .
25. Do a 5k Already planned for August
26. Visit a local winery
27. Create a will
28. Bake a carrot cake from scratch (my sis in laws mother's recipe I shared here)
29. Shop at the new Ikea... Opening in KC this fall
30. Try a new candle fragrance Love this one!
31. Answer all emails timely  This is going well!
32. Transition from Vegetarian to Paleo..... this is a little scary Decided against this...
33. Pay for the persons coffee in line behind me
34. Write more handwritten notes and snail mail send them Needs some work here
35. Try 3 new to me restaurants  One down , two down, there down!!
36. Try something new on the menu at my favorites places to eat (I'm a creature of habit) This was easier than I imagined!
37. Share words of affirmation with my kids every week for encouragement  Accomplishing this and starting to see the results of positive actions from them.
38. Attend Go Blog Social again (Here in KC this April) Missed it!  But not next year.
39. Bake gluten free treats Have them... just need to bake them now!
40. Host a party at my house
41. Attend my nieces wedding in Minneapolis
42. Plant a vegetable garden Total fail....
43. Take updated family photos with all my boys
44. Take my daughter in law shopping at Nell Hills (The best shopping ever)
45. Surprise my mom with a visit
46. Eat the brown M&M's last (inside joke for those that know me) Gab forced me... but I did it.
47. Go to a concert  Amos Lee at the Uptown March 4th
48. See a Dermatologist Completed and so glad I went. 
49. Give up something other than cookies for lent. Completed!
50. Celebrate my birthday in style Did you see my wish list? 

Spring Tips

April 22, 2014
DIY

Happy Earth day.  With the weather finally nice and the days growing longer, it is time for a little spring tips and tricks to help your season transition go smoothly. 

Take a few ice cube trays and fill them up with coffee.  Freeze the tray and once frozen pop them in a baggie or container to store until the next time you're craving an iced latte!  When the cubes melt they won't dilute your drink. They were melting pretty darn quick on my marble. 



Do the same with ice tea, and for you water drinkers... add a few berries to your trays with water and freeze.  Toss the colorful slightly fruity cubes in your glass and enjoy!



Rainy season is here and that means shooting pictures in between rain drops.  Protect your camera and place a plastic shopping bag  around the camera with an opening for the lens and hold it in place with a rubber band to keep your camera dry and protected! It looks a bit crazy I know but I wouldn't want my camera to get wet! 





Turn the hangers in your closet backwards.  Every time you wear something hang it up the correct direction.  When the season is over and time to transition to fall again you will be able to see what you didn't wear because the hangers will be backwards still.  Time to clean out the closet with everything hanging backwards still!  Hey... how did that crazy orange hanger get in there? 




So now it's your turn… share a few tricks that help you transition into spring! What do you do to transition into spring? 

Words to Live By

March 19, 2014
Celebration

 
 
It's really simple.  Do you... and do what you love!  Live with intent and a happy heart and the world will unfold with goodness for you.  So what are you waiting for... get out there and make today great!  I  am!
 
Happy Wednesday!

Dating over 40

March 17, 2014
Celebration

An over-forty friend of mine has recently begun dating…this can seem like a daunting task so I have tried hard to give good and solid advice!  I mean, let’s face it, the dating game now is more than slightly different from the one you remember from your 20’s; we went from blind dates and cruising bars to speed dating and dating websites!  Either way, when you meet someone for the very first time, your objective should be to make a good first impression while getting to know the potential significant other. 


With this in mind, I polled many of my male friends as well as my own guy and came up with some good pointers.  With so many folks I know signing up to play this game, I decided to share my advice with all of you as well. . .
 

9 Successful Dating Tips!

1. Don’t go too sexy! You look far more appealing and sexy if you show less.  Leaving something to the imagination is sexier to a man than taking all the guesswork out of it for him - better to keep things a bit mysterious. 


2.  Confidence is sexy.   Be sure to dress in something that makes you feel good; this will help you carry yourself with confidence.  You look your best when you feel your best so dress in something that feels comfortable – avoid items you will have to tug at, pull at, or tuck in. This way you can concentrate on keeping up your end of the conversation.  Be careful here though…too much confidence can be portrayed as aloof.  


3.  Let the real you shine.  Nothing is more of a disappointment than to go on a few dates with someone only to find out on date three that they were holding back.  Don't be afraid to eat and please don't order a salad and pick at it - guys love a girl that eats her meal.   


4.  Don't be a prude.  If you are feeling a spark, a goodnight kiss is a great way to end a great first date!  However, do not invite him in. . .I promise that is not the foundation you want to build a relationship on.  Let’s be honest, most guys would love to spend the night with you but men are more refined than college boys and a fantastic kiss will leave them wanting more.


5.  Don’t initiate texting.  This is pretty much self explanatory.  If he sends a text, then respond.  Keep the conversation going as long as he is texting but don’t be overly quick to respond.  If you do not keep a respectable distance between replies it may appear as if you have nothing else going on.  When his texts began to span further apart stop responding - make him keep the conversation alive.  


6. Have a Wednesday deadline.  If a guy hasn't made Friday plans to get together with you by Wednesday afternoon - you are not available.  It’s really very simple…this will teach them that your time is as valuable as theirs and is to be respected.  So what if you really don't have plans for Friday?  Decline. If he doesn't think you have a life, or anything going on, you will lose some of the mystery about yourself.  Maybe your plans are reading a good book, taking in a movie with your girlfriends, or just a night at home with a face mask on. . .those are still plans.  

 
7. Be spontaneous.  Don't let the Wednesday rule confuse you.  If your guy calls you on a Saturday afternoon and asks you to meet up with him for a bite or a drink - go! Day dating is a bit different.    


8.  Drive your own vehicle.  Now some might think this is a bit too modern, but I disagree. In the beginning, being in control of your time and exit strategy is important.  This empowerment may help contribute to a successful evening.  If it doesn’t turn out that way and you’re having a terrible time, you can always end the evening without an awkward drive home.  Besides. . .for safety reasons, you really don't want to share where you live yet either.  


9.  Girlfriends will always be girlfriends.  Keep a happy balance between the new boy and your girlfriends.  Remember, they are the girls that wiped away your tears from the last broken heart and will be there when there is no man around.  Do what you need to do in order to ensure that they remain a priority in your life.

MaryBeth Goodwin Designs

January 31, 2014
Art
A few good words can say so very much.  Weather they are words of encouragement,  inspiration, or maybe just a funny quote,  MaryBeth Goodwin Design has such a fun and colorful selection.  As you know I love a monogram and her shop is a monogram girl's dream. Her shop is not just for monogram lovers.  She recently added an entire selection of prints.   I picked out my favorite print from her shop and it fit perfectly in my lucite tray.   I love it! 


I rounded up a few of my favorite prints here and I think you will agree they are both colorful and fun! I don't bleed glitter, but I do love this print! And well..... well behaved woman rarely make history is so true!!!



 
MaryBeth is offering to my readers a 20% discount off anything in her Etsy shop this week.  Just use the code GET20percent at checkout!   That's the perfect reason to get yourself something monogramed, witty, and just plain cute!!  There really is something for everyone in her shop!  And If you don't see it, ask……. she will most likely get it made for you. 


I love how MaryBeth is active with her followers and is always asking your opinion on a design,and she frequently has specials she will post on Facebook or thru her instagram account.  Don't just take my word for it.  You should follow her on her social sites to  keep up with her new products and specials she offers. 

 FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/MaryBethGoodwinDesign
TWITTER: @MaryBethGoodwin
PINTEREST: http://www.pinterest.com/marybethdesign/
INSTAGRAM: designgirlmarybeth


Have a great weekend!  It's suppose to snow here again, but at least it's over a weekend!  What's your weekend look like? Got any big plans? 

Color Blocking

January 29, 2014
Colors



Happy Wednesday!  Can you believe this is the last week of January?  I am amazed at how fast the month went by.  That can only mean spring is on step closer and I couldn't be happier. 

If you follow me on instagram then you saw that the sweet girls at Ampersand Design Studio sent me this print for my office.  I love Carrie and Morgan and they have such a fun and colorful shop.  When I first saw it in their studio I knew immediately I needed it for my office.  Be Present is something everyone needs reminding of on occasion!  

There are so many spring lines launching and this Karen Kane dress is one of them.  Love it! 

Did you see yesterdays post and my list of 50 by Fifty? Somewhere on the list is me making a carrot cake from scratch.  This cake stand will be perfect for that occasion. 

I really don't need to explain why these napkins are a favorite for me.  Hellooo? PInk and pink color block?  Oh yeah!! 

Linking up today and be sure to see what the girls are loving in color block! 



Linking up here too!

50 by Fifty

January 28, 2014
Celebration
The big birthday is this year...50! 
Via
 I know, I know...it's just a number and I really am not that freaked out about it.  By far the hardest birthday for me was my 30th - complete and total freak out on that one.  I hated the idea of no longer being in my 20's; not being able to say "I'm in my 20's" was devastating at the time. My 40th, however, was a wonderful surprise party!  For my 50th. . . I may just be on vacation for it!!

Over the years, my style has changed tremendously and I certainly feel more confident than I did in my 30's. I have the daily struggle of balancing my life, working full time in the corporate world, and staying trendy.  What I love most about fashion is how throwing on a beautiful scarf, adding a pop of color with a handbag, or even something as simple as a leopard loafer can really make a difference in your day.  Boy, do I love making a statement with those differences!
 Scarf    Bag    Loafer  

I am always drawn to women who exude confidence and, like me, have life experiences which is why I love visiting blogs; seeing how others have styled themselves is experience at its finest!  I wish the creative resources of blogging, Pinterest and Instagram had been around when I was in my 30's.  I have no doubt that I would have been a 30 year old fashion blogger!  My first jobs in high school and college were in the clothing industry and my love of fashion is just as strong today.  The one thing that has changed, however, is I have a more sophisticated eye and, I think, a more refined taste.  I know what I like, what works and what simply is not for me.

Other things I have learned...
  • When you're younger, you think that when you get to 40 you'll be an old lady.  Ha, I know I did!  When you actually get to 40 you realize you still feel 20 years young. You have grown and you have learned to appreciate yourself and you've accepted your body and all of its many changes.
  • As my body began to change in my 40's, I had to reassess the way I was dressing. It was no longer as easy to wear the low rise jeans and the stiletto heels...but a mid rise and a great platform or wedge shoe can give a short girl like me the height I need.  
  • Now, you find that the current trends are ones you were on the first ride with.  I clearly remember high waisted jeans, bell bottoms (wide legs as they call them now) and tartan plaid. Knowing in advance whether it worked the first go around helps me to know if it's something I would be willing to try again.   For one thing, plaid is out for me - sorry, parochial schools ruined that for this girl!

  • I will admit, dressing myself in my late forties has been more of a challenge.  A phrase I use religiously is "age appropriate" and dressing that way can be challenging in a fashion world designed for either the young or the old.  What about us inbetweeners!!??  It seems the majority of my wardrobe is Ann Taylor.  I think Ann Taylor is great but I would love to have more options; I'm just not ready for Chico's or Talbots.    Suggestions are welcome!!
  • Life experiences and your steady view of the world - what a big plus!  You have confidence, your opinions are solid, and you showcase yourself with grace. Speaking of grace, you allow more grace to others and this, my friend, is a beautiful thing.  Realizing this, my life has become simpler and I find myself surrounded by a sense of calm that comforts me.


So, with all this being said, 50 will be great and this is my year!  My mantra for the year is #getitgirl and I intend to do just that!  I have a vision, dreams and a plan to make it happen.  My list of 50 by fifty is the perfect way to keep me on track and live life to the fullest!  I would love to see some of you make a list of your top goals to accomplish this year.  Maybe yours is 40 by forty, or 28 by twenty eight.  Whatever your numbers, let's make it happen!  Step one - write it down, acknowledge and affirm it!  Then share your list with me. . .I would love to see them!

Here is my list, in no particular order, 50 by Fifty!


1.   Attend  "Blog Shop" preferably in person Woohoo.... the best class ever!
2.   Visit Gayle, my bff She spent the long 4th weekend here during my staycation!
3.   Shop in the West Bottoms on First Fridays
4.   Finally have my Grandmothers barrel chair reupholstered
5.   Go on vacation in Naples  I sent Joe for three weeks and took a staycation... does that count? I think so!
6.   Complete the redesign and branding of my blog
7.   Completely redecorate my Master bedroom (Picking paint now) Almost finished
8.   Do something just for me...every week  Loving this one and so doing it every week!
9.   Lose 20 lbs.... 14 down, 6 to go.
10. Take a photography class
11. Girls road trip weekend
12. Invest in another designer bag
13. Clean out my closet (for real, deep clean what is never ever going to be worn again)
14. Take all the grand kids to the zoo Spent Mother's Day 2014 with them!!
15. Go to Dallas for the Weekend
16. Try Bangs... again!  Completed Feb 27 and I actually am enjoying them!
17. Take a yoga class  Woot!  The girls and I currently are in a class.
18. Make a weekly meal plan and follow it Working at it.. still needs a little work
19. Start a new linkup on my blog, Who wants to join?
20. Partner with more brands I love Working this one for sure!
21. Have a stay cation
22. Create a gallery wall (Already gathering the pieces) Completed and on the blog!
23. Take new professional blog head shots Done... but may take a few more.
24. Have my blog featured Thrilled this happened here and here .
25. Do a 5k
26. Visit a local winery
27. Create a will
28. Bake a carrot cake from scratch (my sis in laws mother's recipe I shared here) DONE!
29. Shop at the new Ikea... Opening in KC this fall
30. Try a new candle fragrance
31. Answer all emails timely  This is going well!
32. Transition from Vegetarian to Paleo..... this is a little scary Decided against this...
33. Pay for the persons coffee in line behind me
34. Write more handwritten notes and snail mail send them 
35. Try 3 new to me restaurants  One down , two down, there down!!
36. Try something new on the menu at my favorites places to eat (I'm a creature of habit) This was easier than I imagined!
37. Share words of affirmation with my kids every week for encouragement  Accomplishing this and starting to see the results of positive actions from them.
38. Attend Go Blog Social again (Here in KC this April) Missed it!  But not next year.
39. Bake gluten free treats
40. Host a party at my house
41. Attend my nieces wedding in Minneapolis... Tickets purchased!
42. Plant a vegetable garden
43. Take updated family photos with all my boys
44. Take my daughter in laws shopping at Nell Hills (The best shopping ever)
45. Surprise my mom with a visit
46. Eat the brown M&M's last (inside joke for those that know me) Gab forced me... but I did it.
47. Go to a concert  Amos Lee at the Uptown March 4th
48. See a Dermatologist Completed and so glad I went. 
49. Give up something other than cookies for lent. Completed!
50. Celebrate my birthday in style... it was grand!

I will update my list as the year goes by and share how it's going!  Don't forget to share your list with me!

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