Bottom Pics: 30 for 30

Well here they are...what will be covering my bottom for 30 days! I am super excited! The only thing missing a pair of Steve Madden boots that are on the way! I have been eyeballing this pair of boots for some time on a number of my favorite fashion bloggers sites! So excited that they are on their way in time for my 30 for 30! Next...the "top" choices!

Shoe Revival

As much as I ADORE the clutch, this outfit started with the shoes after a miracle repair performed by Mr. McFarland, aka the shoe whisperer. These shoes are over 4 years old now, and I will never forget when I purchased them. It was my first trip to Colorado. Michael was working, and with the help of my dear friend Trisha, I was determined to find the Nordstrom Rack that she raved about! I remember driving down the interstate, gripping my cell phone and taking directions from my stylish and super savvy friend. When I made it I was in awe. It was my first visit to Nordstrom Rack. As I strolled down the shoe isle, my heart was beating out of my chest. I couldn't focus, my eyes went crazy with delight. Trisha says she will never forget the excitement in my voice when I called to inform her that I had made it to the promise land. Now I still haven't picked my 30....I better get going!

30 for 30

I did it! I signed up for Kendi's 30 for 30 Challenge! This HAS to be more fun than the 30 Day dress project right? The fun begins February 1st! I better start picking out my 30!

My New Blog Title

Starting out the new year realizing my life needed change, It came to my attention that my blog needed a name. The name that encompasses all that I do came to me this morning when I was "workin' it". I had a meeting this morning, which had to be cancelled due to the fact that my little ones are home very sick. After almost 2 weeks of the lingering cough, I took them to Dr. E. Normally he tells me I am overreacting, it's just a cold, go home. Yesterday, he says: Don't freak...but Kennedy has pneumonia, and Kade is the lucky winner of an ear infection. Five minutes after we got home, I saw the elementary school on the caller id box. I knew what I would hear on the other end, and I was right! Mrs. Hayes, Leanna has a fever, can you come pick her up? So I franticallly called my mother to come to the rescue. So 3 out of 4 kids home. Sick. The 4th and well child was excited all day about a mother son date night that I had planned for just the two of us. I couldn't cancel, and I didn't. Hubs walks in from work and takes over and we were off! Great time, just the two of us and it was much needed. I step in the door and realize I haven't finished the post for our weekly column. I bang that out and send it off, read with hubs for a few minutes and it's off to bed. So this morning, during my devotional time, I realized I was "workin' it". I had to tackle my priorities, cancel my meetings, and love on my sick babies. So what does it mean to "work it"? My translation: Focusing on what is most important, trusting that God will work it out! My life, in all my roles...is a job! So with the strength only He can give, I plan to "work it" one way or another! And because I love it, I will be workin' my wardrobe as well!

If It's Not Scottish it's CRAP!

From the moment I put on my outfit today I couldn't get it out of my head, the old Saturday Night Live skit! I love it! My bestie and I have randomly laughed at this for years! I love you A! I got "lucky" at Lucky Brand in Vegas! I practically stole this top and skirt and I love them! For fun I wore my rain boots today...hubs told me rain all day. He was sadly mistaken, BUT I had fun anyway! Cheers!

Hello from FABULOUS Las Vegas!

When in Vegas right???? I decided to funktify, yes that is my own word, my hair today! I am digging it! I don't change it up at home much because I barely have the time to dry it! Being here alone with my hubby and no one begging me for goldfish crackers or a drink, or help with homework, I can actually have some fun with my "do"! Yesterday I had a fabulous day at the Fashion Show Mall and the Shoppes at Palazzo. I even found a store that featured nothing but vintage couture! Ahhhhmazing! I don't gamble much, so viewing the hotels, eating, going to shows and shopping keep me a happy camper in this fun city! Tonight is dinner at Fix at the Bellagio followed by "O". I am so super excited! So today's outfit is casual fun, top by Banana Republic, Joe's Jeans, gray belt, J. Crew, Stella and Dot vintage link bracelet and black suede riding boots! I am ready to hit the Vegas strip as soon as my husband is done with his shift!

Post Vacay

So I am back, well we have been back. I have been in somewhat of a directionless state. I shared a note through facebook, but as a quick version, basically I feel God telling me to slow down, and spend less time doing all of these busy things in my life. I get, "I don't know how you do it", a LOT! To tell you the truth, I don't do that great a job at everything combined! I have been doing the Master Cleanse over the past 3 days. I am using it as a fast, seeking God and direction. I still don't feel like I have clear direction! I have so many things that I WANT to do, but I am really trying to let God tell me what to do. More and more I feel like that means take a step back. So now comes the hard part, what do I let go of? So I will continue to pray until I have closure! ON a lighter note, here are two of my favs from vacation! One at the Biltmore, and the other one of my favorite outfits of the trip! Hope everyone is having an Oh SO happy new year!

What a Happy Birthday!

What a happy day! 35 is looking pretty good so far! The hubs, kids, and I are in TN in a beautiful cabin. They took me to a pancake breakfast this morning then dropped me off at the spa! No wifi for days..so sorry for the posting delay and lack of photos! They are soon to come!!! Tonight the plan is to put on my dress and hit the town. Well as much hitting as I can do with 4 children!! Hahaha! Over 100 Facebook messages have brightened my day, and voicemail messages from a friend in 4 different personalities really made it special! I have to say my heart is full! I wish I could stay like this, with my family and no interruptions of busy life!!! I miss home, but love the laid back, special time with my family! I am soaking it up and I could not ask for more!!!! Cheers, and Happy New Year!!!!!

Deal With It!

I'm getting deep on you today, sorry. I have a hurt from a past betrayal. I am sure many have been there and I won't get into specifics for now. Some time has passed but it still creeps up on me. When someone asks me "well, have you dealt with it?", I think to myself what does it mean to "deal" with something. Honestly, I don't know. I don't think "dealing" with something means that you are healed. See to me it isn't "dealing" with it, it's making a choice. A daily choice to accept what happened to me, and move on. But that healing could take a long time. Especially if it is a deep betrayal. I don't know why but this morning while running, I was pounding the pavement thinking about the betrayal that I went through. It felt so good just to be mad. Sometimes I really want the offenders to hurt, and then I ask myself, what would Jesus think about that? I am sure that would break his heart. Sometimes I question how we are supposed to accept things because we know that is what He would want us to do. I guess that is why we have to ask him for strength daily. Anyway, the next time someone asks me if I have "dealt" with it...my answer will be no...but I made a choice, and I have to pray and remind myself of that each day to keep myself going!

Beautiful DAY!

What a beautiful day! I found this khaki dress in the very back of my closet! What a surprise! Then using Sydney's scarf and belt tutorial I made it FUN! I love The Daybook! I found her through another favorite blogger of mine, Keira! These girls inspire me! So many ideas, and so much creativity! I LOVE it! I am now a certified fashion blog groupie! :)

So the goal is...to still fit in the dress after the holidays. So much sugar and snacky snacks over the last few weeks combined with limited time to run makes for a possible problem! I have decided I am NOT going to go without, so I figure one sweet a day is my limit! Can I stick to it? We shall see!

In LOVE with Jones Design Company!

I am totally in love with Jones Design Company! What an inspiration! Check out these amazing gift tags that you can download from her site for free! I am loving the special touch these are adding to my gifts!

For the Fun of it!

Being a Florida girl, I do not own a ton of winter clothes. This is why layering comes in to play very often! Today, my choice was rather boring until I threw on a few key accessories! This goes to show you that with a little color and some fun jewelry even your most boring shirt and sweater can be fun and happy!

Closet Renovation, The After!

I am really excited to say this project is done! Although I do not have the closet of my dreams, I did my best to make it functional with the tiny space that I have! I cleared off top shelves for my hats, put a purse rack on the back of my door, bought additional shoe racks, put my boots in my pull out drawers, and clutches in a small basket on top. I am making it a priority to put things away immediately, to hang up items before they pile on the floor, and return shoes to the proper area! I am sure that you can agree, this is a HUGE improvement! :)

Closet Renovation!

I am motivated now more than ever to maximize my closet space. After 30 days in the same dress, it's time to get ready to roll out the un-used fashion! I have a small closet, and when I say small...I mean small! When we bought our house 7 years ago, we were coming from a TINY apartment. We did not take into consideration the total LACK of closet space! Although I am very grateful, I am limited in space. Here are a few before shots...lets see what I can do. I can't believe that I am sharing these, but this is the true mess I am in! If you have any tips PLEASE chime in! I need all of the help I can get!

Cute Boots!

I could not resist letting you in on this sweet deal! I bought these yesterday at Sam's Club of all places! Suede boots in taupe by MIA, they also have black! They are super comfy and under $40.00! That's what I love about Sam's...groceries for them, new boots for me! :)

Workin' IT

Today I am working it! 3 mile run this morning followed by a meeting and now an afternoon photo shoot in downtown Lakeland! I love a simple blazer, and HOT accessories! Makes the simplest look of jeans and a white shirt feel so much more glamourous! This blazer is a find from Gap. I paired it with a Banana Republic white button down, and my Stella & Dot Byblos necklace!

December 1st: JUMP for JOY!

For those of you who asked what I would wear on my 1st day out of the dress, here you GO! I am jumping for joy!

Top: Banana Republic
Skirt: Nick & Mo, Ivy & Me
Belt: Target
Brown tights: Marshalls
Boots: Michael Antonio, Piperlime
Jewelry: Stella & Dot
Shades: Tom Ford

Day 30: It's OVER!

It's day 30. Thank you to everyone that has commented and encouraged me during my 30 day journey! For some last day fun, I have compiled a list of questions I received throughout the project along with my answers!

Q: Why are you doing this?
A: To appreciate my closet, and be creative with what I have instead of buying more!

Q: What is the longest that you went between washings?
A: Eeeek! I'm going to be honest. One week- I went 5 days. Gently worn though I PROMISE!

Q: What is the biggest thing you learned?
A: Appreciation for my closet and all that it holds!

Q: Will you ever wear the dress again?
A: YES! It will be hanging it in the back of my closet for a while, but I actually really like the dress, it is a great staple!

Q: Did you cheat on the spending freeze?
A: Uh...yes, once again, I have to be honest. I bought a vintage suede coat, for $20.00. I could NOT pass it up! Oh, and the feather & flower headband I am wearing in this picture! Whoops!


Day 30:
Black dress
Pink top: Forever 21
Tights: Betsy Johnson
Black Booties: Last Call
Gray Bag: Ross
Feather headband: Hattie's Branches
Cameo Ring: Saks

Day 29 of 30

TWO MORE DAYS!!!! WOW! I still can't believe this project is coming to an end! I did a self tutorial online today and edited this picture myself! I have a long way to go...I know!

Day 28:
Black dress
Yellow top: Guess
Ruby Necklace: My Mum-Mum's
Belt: Target
Shoes: BCBG, Dillards
Bag: Betsey Johnson
Wooden bangel, Stein Mart

Day 28 of 30!!

Tonight is dinner with friends at my favorite Lakeland restaurant the Terrace Grill! YUM! I can't believe I only have 2 more days in this dress! I started re-organizing my closet in anticipation! When it is finished I will be sure post my victory! Before and after of coarse!

Day 28:
Black dress
Lace top: Target
Gray flower belt, Francesca's (One of my FAVORITE accessories)
Red shoes, Chinese Laundry, Marshalls
Clutch, Victoria's Secret
Ring, Saks

Day 26 & 27: Black Friday, Go Noles!

Friday was spent enduring the Super Bowl of shopping, Black Friday! The day didn't start off so well. I must have been in a turkey coma because I slept right through my alarm! We were an hour late to meet Courtney, and when we arrived at the scene it was INSANE! I only witnessed one slight altercation over a pair of boots, they were pretty cute though. My little Leanna joined us and she was a real trooper! She begged to get up with me at 3am, and she did with no complaining. It worked out well for her as she left her favorite store with a very large shopping bag! I have to say, Courtney and I were very glad that we were in Lakeland's limited shopping zone for Black Friday, it may have been very dangerous otherwise! :)

Day 26:
Black dress
Fashion's Night Out T-Shirt
Belt: Target
Black Flats: Puma

Day 27: Go Noles!
In effort to support FSU, garnet & gold has been put in to play!

Black dress
Garnet and Gold top: Pink
Black leggings:
Black flats: Puma

Day 25: Full

I'm so full, in more ways than one! I love the smell of Thanksgiving! I love seeing family and friends come through the door with loaded arms! I wish there were more occasions when we all got together! I vote for a holiday every month! My black dress has taught me so much about thankfulness! I know it sounds silly, but it's true! I am so thankful for all of the other dresses hanging un worn in my closet....and JEANS! I can't wait to wear jeans again, or even pants! Someone asked me today if I had decided to burn this black dress, but you know what, I'm not. This dress will always remind me of how thankful I am for my closet full of clothes, and all of the other many things I am so thankful for! Happy Thanksgiving! 5 more days to go!

Day 25:
Black dress
Apron: Kitchen Glam, Too Chic Gift Boutique
Necklace: Stella & Dot Owl
Hair Flower: Claires
Shoes: Tory Burch

Day 24: Family Day

Well, it's on! I have made a homemade pie crust, a pecan pie, table centerpieces, and place settings! The turkey is ready to be stuffed and so am I! The rest can wait until tomorrow morning! Today Michael and I are taking the two older kiddos to lunch and a movie. We are then delivering meals for VISTE. What a blessing to bless others! I love Thanksgiving!!!

Day 24:
Black dress
Top: Rampage
Tights: Cynthia Rowley, Marshalls
Boots: Nine West
Jewelry: Stella & Dot

Day 23: Fall Frenzy

This morning I had a bit of a breakdown! Just in case you didn't know, if you want to shop for any Fall decor for Thanksgiving, start at Halloween! I went searching today and the tune of Jingle Bells was already blasting throughout the stores! I couldn't find ANYTHING FALL! Not even at Michael's! So my homemade table decorations for Thursday just got more creative! I will definitely post pictures! :) In effort to stay casual, but somewhat stylish...here is what I came up with for today!

Day 23:
Black dress
Blue Tee: Esprit
Top: Old Navy
Flower belt: J Crew
Flats: Puma

Day 22: Kickin' it Casual!

Here it is: Today's casual look for playing with kids!

Day 22:
Black dress
Gray Tee: Esprit
Jewelry: Grana's
Shoes: BCBG Wedges, Marshalls

Day 20 & 21

What a busy weekend! I am super excited to tell you about the many adventures of my dress! On Saturday Leanna had a soccer game, so I just put a T-Shirt over top and threw on my Keds. That night we went to the Mercy Me concert where we had backstage passes courtesy of Mike Scheuchzer, my elementary school classmate and guitar player in the band! (See photo, and I am not sure which band member is peeking through, HA!) It was so cool to see him and meet the band. They are awesome! I am convinced Bart, the lead singer, has a perma-grin, he is always smiling! As a bonus, Mike's mom was there!!! She was my art teacher throughout elementary school! I just LOVE her!

Today was church, column writing for Lakeland Local, and dinner at Mom's. I am now mentally preparing for a full WEEK with all four children at home to drive me nuts! I don't know how much blogging I will get done! I am also a bit challenged with the dress, as I will be very casual all week! I will have to be pretty creative to tone it down for a week with the kiddos! Only NINE more days to go!!!


Day 20:
Black dress
Lavender ruffle top, Loft
Black belt: Target
Black tights
Black booties, NM Last Call
Black hat, Marshalls
Jewelry, Stella & Dot

Day 21:
Black dress
Green Sweater, Loft
Brooch: My Grana's
Black heels: Nine West
Jewelry: David Yurman
Silver Vintage Clutch: Antique Shop
3-yr-old: Cathy & Michael Hayes

Day 19: Feast Friday!

I am so excited! Today is the Thanksgiving Feast at my children's preschool! I have been looking forward to this all week and I know they have too! I even ran the lake extra hard this morning to prepare my appetite, and burn some calories! :)

Day 19:
Black dress
Mustard silk blouse: Kenar, Marshalls
Belt: Lucky Brand
Boots: Michael Antonio, Piperlime
Jewelry: Stella & Dot

Day 18: Outfit Reinvention!

I was feeling especially creative this morning, brought on by extreme boredom with this dress! I began digging through my closet and found this drawstring waist skirt that I haven't worn in years. I really need to let it go, but today I am glad I didn't! This skirt is one of "those" items. You pull it out while cleaning out your closet and say to yourself, "surely I will wear this again". It worked out today, but usually my rule is if I haven't worn it in a year it goes! This helps keep my closet "workable" and organized! When my closet is over-stocked I can't find anything I need, therefore stifling my creativity!! So here's to closet clean outs, and the items that survive the cut!

Day 18:
Black dress
Drawstring skirt: So old I don't remember
Capelet: Target
Hair flower: Claires
Ruffled socks: American Apparel
Brown booties: Michael Antonio, Piperlime