Cheerful Holiday Posts for Everyone
I thought today I’d round up all of the past posts I’ve created to help you with last minute holiday preparations. It’s so easy to get caught up in the flurry of activities that you become completely overwhelmed. Slowing down a little can make a big impact on your day to day joy. Here’s a little post on How to Keep Your Cool Over the Holidays. Here is a little holiday inspiration to help you through this week!
Style
Holiday posts are some of my favorite to execute. Finding scenery, dressing up and getting in the spirit are all results of creating inspiration to share with all of you. If you are looking for a few ideas on what to wear check out last year’s Holiday Dress Guide for velvet, lace and red items. You can also use items you probably already own for a last minute Christmas outfit! Are you heading to an office party? Well here’s a style guide for what to wear! If you are looking for a more low key outfit check out Cozy Winter pajamas with tons of current styles to wake up in on Christmas morning. A new pair of pajamas make all of the difference when opening gifts with loved ones!
We just got back from our trip to Colorado and I’ll be sharing all my outfits and things we did! We actually got ENGAGED on the trip and I couldn’t be happier about it. Today I wanted to share a few Cyber Monday items. Almost everything listed below are things I actually own and love. From luxury purses like this Senreve bag I carry all the time to comfy pajamas (seen in this post), you can’t go wrong browsing today! I also included items from Lulus, Amazon and Chicwish! Let me know which one is your favorite and tag @threeheelclicks when you post on Instagram. I would love to support and hype you!
It’s party season and I’m here for it! I love the holidays and love getting dressed up for any occasion. This year I’ve been really gravitating to all things sparkly and figured it was time to shine bright. Recently Grace Karin sent me a few new pieces that I’m just dying to share with you guys like this pretty peplum lace top in today’s post. I paired it with a short sequin skirt and bow-embellished heels. I love the simplicity of this look and you can mix and match it with so many other items to give you multiple outfits.
I cannot believe it’s already 2023! Happy New Year! I pulled together this adorable look together earlier in the week. I rang in the new year at home with my boyfriend this year. It was heavenly and we were asleep long before midnight. Sometimes sleep is the best thing you can do. Anyhow, for fashion’s sake I pulled together this look to share with y’all. I wore a satin black dress with this elastic belt I have in a couple of colors. The dress is super silky and not see through. Also lightweight enough to convert to a nightgown and sleep in. Elisabet Tang recently sent me these heels and I think they are the classiest pair of shoes! Love them! I added a fur jacket I’ve had since college and beautiful statement earrings. Shop the entire look here and don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter this week. I’ve got a sneek peak coming your way of something special!
Happy New Year! So excited about the things to come in the next few weeks! We are already a third of the way through this 30 Days of Outfits series! I shot a bunch of looks over the holidays and cannot wait to share them with you. Today I’m wearing this sexy form-fitting green dress from Luvamia (available on Amazon). I love love love the way it fits! The slit is in the perfect spot and the dress comes in a few different colors. I paired it with satin and rhinestone embellished mules and added a pair of sparkly statement earrings. You can shop the entire look here!
Also, I just launched a one-hour photography course that is complete with your own Lightroom preset which I used to edit the photos you see here. Treat yourself and your Instagram feed this year by learning how to take incredible pictures using your cell phone!
XOXO Crystal
Happy Thursday friends! December is flying by at a ridiculous rate. Have you finished all of your Christmas shopping? I have most of it done, but I am looking for a few last-minute things. If you are still in need of ideas check out my Holiday Shop which has tons of Gift Guides. For today’s look, I am sharing this beautiful black lace off the shoulder dress. The lace isn’t itchy at all which is huge for me. I have super sensitive skin and love that this one is comfy. You can wear it off-the-shoulder or on the shoulders. I belted it with this $13 black belt which instantly slims almost any dress giving you an hourglass shape. I added these pretty studs I bought last Spring when I was in Vegas for an event. They also would make a great present for any gal with her ears pierced since they are such a classic design. I layered a vintage statement necklace on it and then topped everything off with these festive metallic heels from Jenn Ardor. You can shop the entire look here!
For today’s look of 30 Days of Outfits, I’m sharing a really cute girls’ night out or date night look. I paired this black lantern sleeve sweetheart neckline top (that I also have in pink see here) with a suede-like mini skirt. Platforms are really in right now and this is such an affordable option. I grabbed them in black but there are so many other colors. I added a feminine clutch and a pair of statement earrings.
I am wearing this really soft flannel buffalo plaid dress from Amazon. I recently shared it on Instagram here with a pair of Hunter Rain Boots, but for today’s look I dressed it up. This is adorable for an office outfit or a holiday party look. I’ve had this black baguette with gold chain hardware on repeat for the past few weeks. Classic black pumps will never do you wrong! Gold jewelry and sunglasses add a classy touch and a bit of glam.
Hope you guys had an awesome weekend! I am getting more and more of my Christmas decor out and having a blast doing decorating. I’m curious, do you decorate before or after Thanksgiving? Anyhow, today I am rounding up my favorite items for the total boss babe. From these pumps use code: THREEHEELCLICKS40 for $40 off (the most comfortable I own - seriously… I can stand in them all day), this blazer is my favorite this season and comes in a bunch of colors and this gold stapler will make anyone feel like a total baller. I love this classic satchel for an everyday bag. I also added my favorite bath soak with Melatonin and this back massager which I’ve had for two years!!! Working hard, but playing and resting even harder is my motto. Shop the entire list at the bottom of the post! Which item is on your list this year?
Black Friday is less than a week away and I’m so excited about all of the goodies going on sale this year! I’ve been pulling together a few looks to share with you guys for holiday outfits including this gorgeous velvet dress from Asvivid. I just received a few new pieces from them and love the softness of the fabric. This dress would be perfect for Thanksgiving when you need to let your belt loop out. I paired it with one of my favorite pairs of shoes from Amazon the Drop and a velvet braided headband for a touch of glam. I also really love this black jumpsuit if you are looking for a great party option and this cobalt blue dress for a work event! You can shop a ton of options below!
Finally getting a few gift guides together for you guys! This year I’m sharing some of my favorite styles from Amazon! I’ve been working with a few sellers like Ekoauer and AvidLove to bring you comfort and luxury rolled into one! A few of my personal favorites include this cami and shorts set in red and this luxurious lace robe! These slippers are perfect for the glam person in your life. Finally, everyone needs a cozy bathrobe and this one will have you feeling extra snuggly. You can shop all my favorites below!
The thing is… sometimes we have to have emotional lows to get back to the highs. It’s a contrast. When we have to let go of something really big in life oftentimes we are left with an emptiness. That emptiness takes time to refill. So what can you do?
I have to tell you this time of year is always so exciting but equally tough with a constant rotation of events! Showers are no exception. Whether you are attending a baby or bridal shower there’s no lack of things to do that require a lovely dress. A new to me brand that I’ve been loving these past few months is Shoshanna. Each piece is made with the most beautiful fabric and fits like a glove! I love this adorable daisy printed dress worn in today’s post. I paired it with my sky-high Jay 100 Pump Sarah Flint heels and a statement necklace to bring out the turquoise in the dress. You can save $50 when you use my link. One of the good things about having a few dresses on hand is being able to grab and go quickly without a lot of thinking. Swap out shoes and accessories depending on the season and occasion. I could easily wear this same dress with a pair of sandals and a straw bag instead. You can shop a bunch of my favorites Spring items below.
Valentine’s Day whether I’ve been single or in a relationship is actually one of my favorite days of the year. Although I believe that love should be celebrated every day, I also find the holiday fun since it involves candy, colorful outfits, and a fantastic dinner with atmosphere. Whether you are going to be a party of one or you are looking for a hotspot around your city… a new outfit for the occasion always makes for a better day.
Wow! What a weekend! I had an incredible time on South Padre Island and will be sharing tons of fun content over the next few weeks for Spring Break ideas (both snow and sea) but this morning I wanted to talk more about the overarching theme I’ve chosen for 2022. For the past five years, I’ve chosen a word every single year as a focus for my life throughout the year. First, it was the word “health” after getting pneumonia at the end of 2017. Then, it was “simplify” in 2019 where I share my struggles with feeling a lack of purpose in my life. In 2020 I chose the word “explode” where my entire life took a huge leap forward. I ended a relationship, moved cities and my business doubled that year in followers, website traffic, and income. This past year I chose the word “abundance” and let me tell you, I had no idea what was in store. My life took another large leap forward and I experienced success in professional and personal areas of growth. Moving into a home after living in apartments and cottages for years was huge. I started traveling a lot on my own and experienced an increase in peace in my life. Here we are at the beginning of 2022 and I’m choosing the word - “soar” to rise above anything I’ve ever done before in my life. I’ve set some pretty remarkable goals this year and will be working on hitting them one by one.
For the past few days I’ve really kicked my outfits up a notch. It’s the last week of the year and around the 20th I decided to wear my best. I found this dress the other day when I was finishing some Christmas shopping and thought it was the perfect holiday staple for my closet. I can see it being equally cute if I swapped out pumps for the boots. I love the soft champagne color and the whole thing was on sale for under $20. What a steal.
How many times have you thought to yourself… I really should have taken that trip? I’m in a phase of life where I am holding nothing back. I have no reason to anymore. In the past, I came up with reasons I couldn’t do something or go somewhere. Maybe it was the cost. Maybe it was asking for time off from my job and I didn’t think they couldn’t manage without me being there. Maybe it was because my ex-husband didn’t show interest or even complained about it. Maybe it was the fact that you have three kids and now you have no idea how to even begin to make that happen. When was the last time you did something that made you feel the most you?
Let’s talk about creating the life of your dreams. A few years ago I started pinning things on Pinterest for the life I wanted to create. I was at a low point and unhappy with the current state of my everyday affairs. If you’ve ever been through depression, you know exactly what I’m talking about. It was really hard during that time to feel excited about anything. Everything lost its luster and I felt like I couldn’t afford to do anything. I was pinching pennies on the daily and worrying about whether or not basic bills would be paid. During that period of time, I worked really hard to just make it through the day one hour at a time. I began during this period of my life to collect and save ideas of things I wanted in my life. One of those items was a pink Christmas tree.
I love getting into cozy clothes in the evenings and sitting around the glow of the tree. From working on a new painting to journaling being at home is even more fun when you have a comfortable environment. For years I went with mismatching pj’s or I wore my athleisure clothes to bed. Over the past few seasons, I make it a point to take a nice long shower or bath and slip into something comfortable and elegant to sleep in. I love a good pair of satin pajamas. I paired these lace embellished shorts with a cozy sweater and then added festive slippers. I plan on wearing the same slippers on Christmas morning. They are really comfortable and add a touch of glam. Gifting pajamas are also a favorite of mine!
I put together two looks wearing my new Sarah Flint Jay 100 Pumps. I love the tortoise heel and how it contrasts against the beautiful triple-dyed navy suede. I love the arch support! Usually, heels don’t have that kind of comfort but these can be worn all day or all night depending on the occasion. For the first outfit, I paired them with a silk camisole and silk skirt. A simple nude envelope clutch and gold earrings make for an elegant party or New Year’s Eve look. The second look includes a pleated navy floral dress. You can add a blazer or cardigan daytime and then switch to a scarf or a shawl for an evening look. The pumps are the perfect finishing touch for both looks. Use the code SARAHFLINT-BATHREEHEELCLICKS for $50 off your Sarah Flint order!
Over Thanksgiving break, I took a quick trip to Dallas for a few days. While I was there I made sure to stop by the Royal 38 Christmas pop up restaurant which is decked out in everything Christmas-related. I thought it would make a fun evening to merrily kick off the holiday season. When you walk in you are immediately greeted with a leg lamp like the one found in Christmas Story. The exterior is has a beautiful canopy of lights over the patio and each table is individually wrapped like a present. Even the cocktails carried the theme by being served in Santa mugs. If you are in the area and are looking for a fun spot, check them out. I recommend making reservations before going since it’s a pretty small venue. Also, the menu is done by scanning a QR code and ordering yourself so when you sit down you can immediately get things moving for your table. It was such a fun place to be for the evening and the food was incredible.
It’s no secret that I love Amazon. From their incredibly streamlined delivery and return policy to the quality of the Amazon the Drop collections that highlight influencers, time and time again I am impressed by what they have created in the retail space. To think that they single-handedly changed the book and printing industry! I’m overjoyed day after day with my Audible subscription, endless tv options on Amazon Prime, and getting packages regularly that have that little smile icon on them. With all of the amazing sales and deals happening I had to share my favorite Amazon finds. I’m dating things back over the past year with each item being something I’ve either used, purchased for someone else, or currently have on my own wish list.
Black Friday is finally here! I have rounded up some of my favorite sales happening so you can easily shop and use discount codes for the best savings. Make sure to bookmark this so you can easily reference!!
Can you believe Thanksgiving is in just two days? I absolutely cannot. After a whirlwind of a weekend traveling, I just got back to my house and was thinking a lot on my drive home about mental health and the next six weeks. Holidays are a time where schedules seem jam packed, the to do lists are endless and there are so many social events that leave a person drained at the end of the day. Furthermore, many companies are closing out their year with inventory counts, end of year sales and crunching budget numbers. As much as the season brings me joy, I also find so much of it to include a lot of additional stressors. When stressors amount life can get really overwhelming and the season can loose it’s luster. Here are a few ways I’m focusing on my mental health this season.
This gift guide is probably my favorite of all the gift guides I will be publishing this year! As an avid traveler and total wanderlust at heart, I hold every item on this list close to my heart. Now that the world is opening back up, my weekends and free time have been spent either on the road or plotting my next adventure. Whether it’s a weekend of backpacking or a lavish trip to a boutique hotel in the city, I know a thing or two about traveling prepared. Here are a few of my recommendations and you can shop the full list at the bottom of the post!
It’s no secret I like to pamper and get myself dolled up. In my twenties, self-care was a non-existent term in my vocabulary but now that I’m in my mid-thirties and a single mom it’s vital! I love being able to take a few minutes to give my body the love it needs after a long day at work or being able to swipe a beautiful red lipstick on for a date. I’ve put together my ultimate list of beauty favorites. Everything below is tried and true been used for years. If you are looking for the best skincare options try the brightening mask which helps wrinkles and discoloration. The cleansing balm is will melt your makeup right off leaving a fresh eucalyptus scent behind. I also love using the anti-aging serum and then beauty oil at night to help my skin stay as youthful as possible.
Getting dolled up for the holidays is probably one of my favorite activities during this season! There’s something about the swipe of a bold lip and adding a little sparkle to my accessories that put a serious pep in my step. Since the world decided to open back up finally, I plan on dressing to the nines from now until NYE! I’m wearing the most flattering retro dress with a navy and red floral print in these pictures. It comes in several other prints and I love how easy it is to steam out wrinkles. I just ordered a pack of the prettiest velvet headbands to make getting ready easy along with barrettes and bow-embellished jewelry. I also plan on sporting this tartan dress and pair of heels as much as possible over the next few weeks. Whether you are headed to an office party, cozy by the fire date or a family dinner I’ve rounded up a TON of items below for you to look as jolly and elegant as possible!
With Thanksgiving being less than two weeks away it’s time to pull together a few looks for the day of feasting. It’s the perfect day for elastic waistbands but before you go pulling out your sweatpants let me introduce a few other ideas that are classy and comfortable. First up is a chunky knit cream colored sweater I found on Amazon. It’s super soft and not itchy at all. I’m really picky when it comes to buying fabrics. Anything that doesn’t feel good on my skin ends up getting tossed or donated so I try to be selective with the things I order these days. I paired it with these relaxed, drawstring trousers that are full-length on a shorty like me but would be cropped for someone with longer legs. Add a pair of beautiful heels and a classic structured bag for a complete look!
The past few days it’s finally reach coat worthy temperatures here in Texas. I was able to do a little scouring through my coats to locate something that would keep me warm and snuggly while I headed for a nice long walk. I pulled out one of my favorite puffy jackets in a sweet shade of pink and paired it with leggings and blush sneakers for a stylish but comfortable outdoor look. Puffy coats are my favorite when it comes to comfortable winter wear. They layer nicely over sweaters, vests and basic fleece pullovers. I’ve rounded up thirty options for you below in every shade I could find! They make the perfect gift and all of the options range from $40-$200!
A few weeks ago my daughter and I took a trip to Hot Springs, Arkansas where we stayed at the beautiful historic Arlington Resort and Spa. The hotel sits on federal land and flanks one of the ends of Bathhouse Row. Packed with history and architecture we spent the weekend exploring sights of the past. I wore the most beautiful shade of rust with pretty pleat details paired with suede grey boots. Being from the South, we have warmer fall and winter months so I usually resort to picking seasonal colors and textures instead of tons of layers. This dress is gorgeous and comes in a variety of shades from magenta to black.
Travel
Late January and early February are perfect months to travel up North if you are on a budget. Tickets are so much lower and it’s fun to plan an after holiday trip. Check out the charm of East Greenwhich in Rhode Island. You can also book tickets through Boston and they are under $150 in January from major cities like Houston! Boston is an excellent hub for getting all over the New England area. In the past I’ve traveled to other parts of Rhode Island like Oceanside Drive, Queechee or Woodstock in Vermont, and the beautiful snowy lands of Maine. If you are planning to visit somewhere chilly then check out How to Pack for a Winter Getaway for tips and tricks! Packing the appropriate gear can make or break a winter trip! Be prepared and efficient.
Yesterday I took a little road trip to Waco, TX to visit the incredibly elegant newly renovated boutique Hotel 1928. Designed by Chip and Joanna Gaines! The project was to restore a cornerstone building in downtown Waco, TX, and preserve the turn of the century hospitality. There are so many corners, nooks, and details to awe over as you explore this incredible masterpiece. There’s a library downstairs, lounges on the ground floor, a coffee bar, and a Brasserie where I had the most delicious baked cheese! There’s also 33 rooms and a rooftop terrace. Whether you are looking to stay overnight, spend the afternoon working out of the lounge, or just grab some food with friends you must stop by!
We just got back from an incredible trip over Thanksgiving and had the best time! I wanted to share a few of the outfits and activities with you in today’s post. Although a lot of our trip was business-oriented, we made time for some fun and relaxation. Toward the end of the trip, Marshall proposed! It was such a sweet surprise and I am so excited we are getting married. I’ll be sharing more about it in an upcoming blog post with the full story but wanted to round up a few looks in case you are traveling this season.
We decided to drive from College Station, TX to Denver over two days so my first few outfits were really comfy-oriented. I found that bodysuits are the perfect item to travel in since they offer support and convenience without having to layer underwear. I added cute leggings and cardigans over to stay cozy in the car. I also wore shoes that I could easily slip on and off for quick road stops. I’ve rounded all of my outfits and details for you to shop in this post! Read on…
For today’s outfit, I’m wearing the silkiest and most comfy top by Hotouch. I love the feel of the fabric on my skin and it’s such high quality. I paired it with these pink flared jeans that I have in multiple colors ( and my favorite Sarah Flint pumps that go with everything. For final touches, I added this white Senreve bag and gold statement earrings
The week in Abilene and Amarillo flew by! I decided to do a quick round-up post of all of the outfits I wore in both cities. Keep it mind it was either sunny and 70 or below freezing and windy. I did my best to pull together looks to inspire but were also somewhat practical. I spent so much time outdoors so you’ll see a few options for activity-related outfits. I also spent a good amount of time catching up with friends and having amazing meals. I wore a few nicer outfits and then a few cozy things as well. You can check out my prior posts on Caprock Canyons, Abilene, Palo Duro Canyon, my stay at the Big Texan Motel, and finally the cutest dress for date night or girl’s night out!
Oh my goodness what a great weekend! Felt like the first weekend in a long time that my daughter and I had the chance to just kick back and spend time home together. On Saturday, I got dolled up and took us out to brunch at 1 pm at The Cookshack which opened recently in College Station. Somewhat limited menu, revolving around chicken and waffles, cute modern atmosphere, and huge portions. You could easily split a portion if you eat on the lighter side. We both got the chicken and waffles and picked our sides out accordingly. I recommend stopping by one of these if you live near one! I wore the cutest pink and mocha ensemble. I paired this roomy baby doll tunic top with a rose-colored coat. I love the combo of rose pink and mocha brown. They compliment one another so much! I paired it with an oversized envelope clutch, over-the-knee boots, and vegan leather pants. I have to say, this pair of leggings has gotten a lot of use this season. They are lined lightly and feel great on chilly days. Hope you all had a great weekend! I’ll be back to share more travel and spring break inspo as the week goes on!
Can you believe we are a month away from Spring? With Spring Break just a few weeks away I’m already getting together my Spring Wishlist! My top priority is to go through my current shoes and get rid of anything that’s uncomfortable. Since I found Sarah Flint, I’ve decided I walk too much to wear shoes that hurt. Secondly, I’ll assess any damage like heel tips that need to be replaced or boots that need new soles. It’s always a good idea to go through your wardrobe a few times a year and get rid of, repair, or donate unused items. Next, I make a list of things I need and things I want. As I go through the next few months I can refer to my list as my budget opens for new additions. Then, I have made intentional purchases I know I’ll love.
The past few months I’ve traveled back and forth to Dallas often. It’s an area I haven’t spent a ton of time in the past and I’ve really enjoyed getting to see the different parts of the city. Recently I decided to make it a point to stop by the Dallas Arboretum. The day I chose to go it actually snowed on me a while I was walking around. This garden is known for being one of the most photographic spots in the city. Each year the grounds are covered in flowers and blooms all Spring long. You will need to purchase a ticket online in advance and make sure you also purchase parking. You’ll pick an arrival time and you are encouraged to bring a picnic and spend a few hours there. I cannot wait to make a second trip over the Spring and share more about it with you guys!
The past 6 months I have traveled every few weeks somewhere for the weekend. Work, events, and campaigns have taken me all over the place. When you are in a constant travel mode you get accustomed to having some sort of system to pack or you won’t know your right from your left hand. I’ve curated a list of must-haves for most of my trips regardless of the climate. I recommend always bringing something for warm weather (places heat up) and something for cold weather (cold fronts happen). I’ve written a bunch of posts over the years on packing here but today I’m going to focus on classic items you can bring for your next weekend getaway.
Here we are smack dab in the middle of February and it’s always a challenge to decide what to wear. For some, it’s still ridiculously cold. Not quite Spring, but definitely time to get out of the holiday glitz of the past few months. I find that having a few classic pieces to mix in and transition my wardrobe from Winter to Spring makes getting dressed so much easier. A lightweight turtleneck in soft gray, punchy yellow pieces, a black shirtdress, and straw bags are all perfect pieces for this time of year. I recently picked up a cotton black shirt dress from Amazon the Drop. It will be perfect with tights and a trench coat now then with wedges during the Spring. I put together a list of some of my favorite things to stock up on right now.
Mental health. I’m so glad this topic has been on the rise especially since the pandemic hit. Now more than ever more and more people need resources. My anxiety journey began about 10 years ago. Through a series of trials, errors, and lots of therapy I am now able to manage panic attacks and anxiety without medication. This post is in no way meant to replace medical advice. If you are struggling I absolutely recommend seeking professional help. Today I’d like to share a resource I use in my own mental health toolkit called a “Coping Checklist.” I’m going to share with you guys a few benefits of having one and the science behind it, how to create one, and when to use it. The biggest key in your coping checklist is to use it as soon as you feel anxiety come on. The more you go through the sequence the easier the panic becomes to manage.
If you are new around here you probably should note that I still go on hikes often because I love the outdoors so dang much! After spending a few days in West Texas hiking and driving through both Caprock Canyons and Palo Duro Canyon I decided to head more north to celebrate New Year’s in Colorado Springs, CO. I’ve made several trips to Colorado over the years with friends but this was the first time alone. I decided that if I only did one epic activity it was to get to Pikes Peak Summit. I quickly researched the ways to get to the top - you can hike about 14 miles… um… no thank you. That’s pretty aggressive to get to one of the tallest peaks in the US. You can drive it but winds a lot and steep grades. It is Winter… and again… no thank you. Then, I stumbled across the train! You can take a three-hour round trip up 9 miles on a train to reach Pikes Peak Summit. That I could manage!
A few items I wear year-round include a trenchcoat, swing dress, good pair of flats, and sunglasses. My coat is actually from Everlane (also available for purchase on Amazon - here’s an under $100 version), and my flats were under $100 as well. Most days you’ll find me in a pair of aviators or Ray-Ban sunglasses but I keep a few inexpensive pairs within reach in my car as backup. A simple swing dress is great this time of year. You can swap the trench coat out for a warmer one on a cold day and a pair of boots with the dress above. Another option is to layer tights and loafers on chilly mornings with this look. When you get home, it can double as loungewear since it’s so comfortable and easy to move around in. I’ve fallen asleep many evenings in this same dress!
Over New Year’s Eve, I took a quick weekend trip to Colorado Springs, CO. It was beautiful and right before a huge snowstorm. I’ll be sharing more about that experience in an upcoming post! Although the city itself was not snow-covered until the end of my trip, I did go up into the mountains and needed the right gear to withstand the slopes. Whether you are a ski fanatic looking for a few updates to your winter wardrobe, a snow bunny who just loves the scenery and a good hot tub, or maybe you are looking to just keep warm - here’s a guide to dressing warm and layering snow and ski style!
Wow! What a weekend! I had an incredible time on South Padre Island and will be sharing tons of fun content over the next few weeks for Spring Break ideas (both snow and sea) but this morning I wanted to talk more about the overarching theme I’ve chosen for 2022. For the past five years, I’ve chosen a word every single year as a focus for my life throughout the year. First, it was the word “health” after getting pneumonia at the end of 2017. Then, it was “simplify” in 2019 where I share my struggles with feeling a lack of purpose in my life. In 2020 I chose the word “explode” where my entire life took a huge leap forward. I ended a relationship, moved cities and my business doubled that year in followers, website traffic, and income. This past year I chose the word “abundance” and let me tell you, I had no idea what was in store. My life took another large leap forward and I experienced success in professional and personal areas of growth. Moving into a home after living in apartments and cottages for years was huge. I started traveling a lot on my own and experienced an increase in peace in my life. Here we are at the beginning of 2022 and I’m choosing the word - “soar” to rise above anything I’ve ever done before in my life. I’ve set some pretty remarkable goals this year and will be working on hitting them one by one.
I arrived in Amarillo, Texas less than two weeks ago to spend a few days working. I’ve never been to the Texas panhandle, so I decided to make it a key location in my Winter Road trip this year. If you missed my first post on the road trip I stopped in Abilene. You can check out that post here. After I left Abilene I made it to Caprock Canyons (which I wrote about here) and then headed into Amarillo to stay at the Big Texan Motel (which you can read about in this post). It was pretty liberating to drive to this part of the state. There are so many beautiful sites to see involving nature. I’ll be posting more about the trip as I headed to Palo Duro Canyon! But for now, let’s chat about food in Amarillo.
I’ll be honest. I’ve been in mostly knits for the past 10 days. Ever since I made it back from my trip to Colorado, I’ve been a complete hermit. Yep, snuggled up on the couch with my dog and journal morning and night. It’s been incredible and much-needed. I’ve been working all year so far out of my house. Each evening doing little projects around the house and during the daytime working with clients. My uniform looks the equivalent of what I wore when I was in Amarillo which includes this incredible sweater that is the softest material ever and these snuggly pants. If there is one outfit you need in your life right now it’s this one. I’ve been wearing several pairs of sweater pants like these joggers, this pair of wide-legged and I’ve featured these several times on the blog over the years. They are a great alternative to sweat pants and you can lounge, walk or run errands in them.
I love drawing inspiration from nature, and this includes the shades of snow that fall this time of year. Although Texas only gets snow on occasion, I still find myself drawn to the beautiful shades of cream and winter white. It’s been on rotation in the closet these past few weeks. For this look, I paired a cream-colored cardigan (that has the sweetest collar) and a fluffy white jacket (similar one here) to create a neutral but not boring look. I paired it with my favorite pair of jeans (that I have in multiple washes) and knee-high tan boots that are under $50!! You could top this look with a camel-colored coat and scarf if you live in a colder environment! I rounded up a ton of my favorite winter white options below!
The week between Christmas and NYE is one of the weirdest weeks of the year. Days seem to blur together and there’s an overarching tone of “let’s put it off till next year” happening in business. I took this as an opportunity to travel to some of the places I’ve had on my bucket list for a while. I drove from College Station to Abilene on Sunday stopping to catch the sunset before grabbing dinner and retiring for the evening. You can check out that post and I’m wearing one show-stopping dress in this post. After leaving Abilene I made my way up through Caprock Canyons and then onto Amarillo, Texas for a few days. This whole area of the Texas Panhandle is like nothing I’ve seen before. I don’t recall ever making it through Amarillo in the past but it’s definitely a world of its own. Surrounded by so much nature! Great place for spending time on Lake Meredith, or hiking one of the toughest trails in Texas on Palo Duro Canyon. Either way, if you are an outdoors person this place is for you!
This past year I’ve made it a goal to visit as many National and State Parks as possible. They house some of the most beautiful scenery! This season alone I visited Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Padre Island National Sea Shore, Hot Springs National Forest, and Davy Crockett National Forest. It’s so refreshing to get away from most people and wander the trails of nature. I’ve been able to experience things you just don’t get in the city around people. From driving 50 miles off-road to getting lost in the Fall foliage National Parks are the way to go!
It’s no secret that I love Amazon. From their incredibly streamlined delivery and return policy to the quality of the Amazon the Drop collections that highlight influencers, time and time again I am impressed by what they have created in the retail space. To think that they single-handedly changed the book and printing industry! I’m overjoyed day after day with my Audible subscription, endless tv options on Amazon Prime, and getting packages regularly that have that little smile icon on them. With all of the amazing sales and deals happening I had to share my favorite Amazon finds. I’m dating things back over the past year with each item being something I’ve either used, purchased for someone else, or currently have on my own wish list.
Last weekend I made a trip to East Texas to check out the last of the beautiful Fall foliage that we have here in Texas before the gray of Winter sets in. I stopped at the sweetest little city in Sulphur Springs where I found the prettiest building which is their courthouse. It immediately made me feel like I was standing in front of a castle! Small town Texas is known for it’s beautiful architecture like this. So much European influence from Germany, France and Spain! Sulphur sits between East Texas and Dallas. If you get a chance to stop through there, I highly recommend it! So much boutique shopping and places to eat. There’s a beautiful park in the center of the town square you can stroll!
Hopefully we will be back to warmer weather here soon, but as I see the forecast constantly fluctuate - having a few items that add extra warmth seems pretty wise these days. Here are few tips for layering in the cold weather when you are living in the South!
A few years ago I decided to stop letting fear get in the way of living. It takes a moment to moment approach but when you are doing something that requires bravery you don’t feel brave. You feel nervous, your heart races, and your chest may tighten. But as you move through each moment it begins to be bearable. Maybe your fear is public speaking. Maybe your fear is putting yourself out there on social media. Maybe your fear is standing up to someone in your family or at your job. Whatever the fear is, you can get through it. It won’t be easy, but the easy things don’t bring fulfillment. It’s through the hard lessons our character develops and our faith is strengthened.
Every January I find myself gravitating towards simplifying. From clearing out clutter and holiday decor to clean eating the turn of the year presents itself with a chance to start clean. I find this theme is reflected in my home, my beauty routine and my wardrobe.
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.
At the beginning of 2020 I chose the word explode for my year. When I selected that word I thought it would be my business that would explode. Little did I know God had bigger plans than that. Every single area of my life ended up changing - mentally, physically, emotionally, my home, my work, my parenting. All the energy from the past few years I put forth came together to form this new life I have now. I am obsessively grateful for where I am today, but I’ll never forget where I came from. I believe that are moments of struggle are tests of faith. As we move through those dark valleys with faith and hope we are able to make it to the other side where the blessing lie. My life is a living testimony of that. It didn’t explode until I pushed through the pain. It didn’t reap the blessings without the sacrifice.
Life
Looking to add a beautiful decorations or make memories? I love creating my own wreaths and this one you can do for under $20. I currently have it hanging on my own door. You can also make gingerbread houses or cookies to decorate. Such a fun activity for adults and kiddos! Another fun activity is to buy pretty colored markers and a roll of craft paper to make your own wrapping paper for gifts! Kids love being involved and this is a perfect way to help them express how much they care for family and friends. While I am crossing off the last of my Fall Bucket List, here’s a previous post on a Holiday Bucket List filled with fun things to do! You can also set a beautiful holiday table if you are hosting a gathering this season!
Gifting
I mentioned making your own wrapping paper as an activity, but what about the actual gifts? Gift giving is one of my personal love languages and I like putting thought and effort into each selection but buy things for people (or sometimes I make them!) that have a very special meaning. Try giving a loved one the Joy of Reading or Gifting Nostalgia.
I cannot think of a better way of treating yourself this year than buying yourself a few things you may have been eyeing! After being a mom who struggled for YEARS giving herself time, energy and self-care I now make it one of the biggest priorities. I listen to my body and feel more than I ever have so I can make sure I take better care of myself. That includes getting myself little treats. Each year for my birthday I like to pick out a new handbag. When I am out Christmas shopping for others, I see no problem in grabbing something for myself, too. If you feel guilty every time you go to grab something that’s just for you or feel like it’s selfish - I’m here to tell you it’s not! You can help others, love on others, give to others and give to yourself. I wrote a post for all the Single Ladies on Valentine’s Day a few years ago and packed with self-care tips! I was actually in a relationship at the time but remembered what the year prior was like when I was single. It’s okay to take solo trips, buy a ridiculous thing for yourself or just spend some time alone. Remember, you have to live with yourself longer than anyone else so make sure to take care of yourself! Here are a few things I’ve personally treated myself to these past few months!
I love getting into cozy clothes in the evenings and sitting around the glow of the tree. From working on a new painting to journaling being at home is even more fun when you have a comfortable environment. For years I went with mismatching pj’s or I wore my athleisure clothes to bed. Over the past few seasons, I make it a point to take a nice long shower or bath and slip into something comfortable and elegant to sleep in. I love a good pair of satin pajamas. I paired these lace embellished shorts with a cozy sweater and then added festive slippers. I plan on wearing the same slippers on Christmas morning. They are really comfortable and add a touch of glam. Gifting pajamas are also a favorite of mine!
In this post, you will find a pretty legit list of my favorite homebody items. I put together a mix of pricepoint and styles for men, women, children, and items for the home. Whether you are a single girl in her twenties or a bachelor male in his forties… there is something on the list below for you. My favorite items include the neck massager (I bought for myself during Christmas last year), plush towels for getting out of a long soak, and this pair of satin jammies. A good coffee cup never hurts and if you’re just not sure what to get someone - go with a cozy blanket in a neutral color.
This gift guide is probably my favorite of all the gift guides I will be publishing this year! As an avid traveler and total wanderlust at heart, I hold every item on this list close to my heart. Now that the world is opening back up, my weekends and free time have been spent either on the road or plotting my next adventure. Whether it’s a weekend of backpacking or a lavish trip to a boutique hotel in the city, I know a thing or two about traveling prepared. Here are a few of my recommendations and you can shop the full list at the bottom of the post!
It’s no secret I like to pamper and get myself dolled up. In my twenties, self-care was a non-existent term in my vocabulary but now that I’m in my mid-thirties and a single mom it’s vital! I love being able to take a few minutes to give my body the love it needs after a long day at work or being able to swipe a beautiful red lipstick on for a date. I’ve put together my ultimate list of beauty favorites. Everything below is tried and true been used for years. If you are looking for the best skincare options try the brightening mask which helps wrinkles and discoloration. The cleansing balm is will melt your makeup right off leaving a fresh eucalyptus scent behind. I also love using the anti-aging serum and then beauty oil at night to help my skin stay as youthful as possible.
The Packed with Care Something Worth Celebrating bundle features complexion-enhancing products with never-before-seen savings of up to 45%. It’s a perfect gift for makeup newbies like teens who could benefit from products that both conceal blemishes and pamper the skin. It’s also great for beauty experts who’ve been wanting to play with new products and techniques or as a treat to yourself for all the hard work you’ve put into the holidays.
Although I am a lover of new trends and like to change my look up from time to time, I’ve built my wardrobe with classic pieces over time. I love a beautiful dress that can span from decade to decade or a coat that looks as fresh as it did ten years ago. I’ve started collecting jewelry pieces that I can pass down as heirlooms and if you were to look in my china cabinet you’d find an assortment of delicate tea cups that are reminiscent of another era. I’ve put together a list of items for anyone in your life that will last the course of time. Some of my favorite items include argyle printed socks, a silk scarf and classic Ray-Ban sunglasses. You really can’t go wrong with cable knit sweaters or a beautiful leather wallet. I also love these huggies for an affordable and quality piece of jewelry. I wear them almost daily and love them! See below for 30 timeless items for you to shop!
Mother’s Day is about a month away and I’ve already begun bookmarking a few items for my own momma. Online shopping has completely shifted my time lines for purchasing items. I start looking much earlier than I used to so I can have things ordered in time of the next holiday. Spring is a the perfect time to stock up on beauty favorites for myself and for mom with the heat coming in a few weeks. As the weather warms up I constantly reach for things like moisturizing and brightening products to give my skin a beautiful glow. Giving the gift of beauty products to pamper her makes any woman feel like a million bucks. Here are my top picks for Mother’s Day!
Over the years my family who are avid readers have given the gifts of books time and time again. I have to tell you, books are some of my favorite gifts to give and receive. Last year I shared a few favorites in this post and then also I did a book review on Facebook live here. Books are incredible for the brain. Did you know it’s the best way to exercise your mind? It’s like giving your brain a high intensity workout. This year most of the books I’ve read revolved around the topic of personal development: spiritual, business, mental health and healing. I set out early in the year to make my life “explode” and knew from day 1 it would require an immense amount of focus. Some of these books were ones I listened to while others I read in paper form. Because I spend so much time in my life working on screens my book time stays off screen. Today’s post includes my favorite finds on Amazon so you still have time to grab for those loved ones or gift yourself as you begin a new year.
Drumroll please…It’s finally here. Opulence lipsticks are back in stock after months and months of waiting. Not only are they back in stock but come in six glorious shades. From bold pink to soft matte rose there’s just nothing I mean nothing more glam that swiping on a bold shade of lipstick to tackle the day! I am so excited to share our newest holiday bundle with your choice of three shades for under $60. These babies are not for the faint of heart. They have lasting power that exceeded all of my expectations!
No matter what over the next two weeks just remember to enjoy each moment. Time is a strange thing and we anticipate so much just to watch it fly by! Create unique memories without stressing yourself out and remember that love is the most important part of Christmas.
The past two weeks I’ve been on a constant rotation of all things red. It started with our trip to Colorado where I pulled out a few of my favorite pieces for the season like this red coat that has been on repeat and this adorable bow embellished sweater. Then, once we returned home I decided to keep the holiday theme going! Red is such a classic and festive color for this time of year.