Blue Birds Can Fly

Blue bird button blouse - Nordstrom Rack (last year)

Black dress capris - H&M 

Black Peep hole/toe wedges - Lucky Brand (Macy's)

Happy Wednesday!

I can't remember the last time I said Wednesday over Hump Day! (Who am I?) I hope the middle of the week comes with bouquet of roses and smiles :)

I love this blouse. I've discovered something about my personal style and myself recently. I am addicted to any type of print, geometric shapes, electronica music, extremely bright and surprisingly the complete opposite - deep dark colors. I am a mix of things wild, with a straight edge. I'm super creative and enjoy freedom but crave structure. Organized chaos. I also discovered that I wasn't being completely true to myself through what I have been sharing on my blog - in reference to my creative side -singing, speaking art I create and provide as prints on my blog. 

I feel in a way I conform to what I think is accepted or well-liked by society instead of staying 150% completely true to what I think is cool and what makes my pieces, well, me. That's what makes us exciting anyway, right? Being uniquely made and having our own ways to express art, love, passion. I promise to no longer hold back and I will allow this space to be my creative outlet. Judge all you want, I don't care anymore. I'm going to take my feet off the edge of this bird's nest and see if I can fly. 

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Contentment

Happy Hump Day!

I hope the middle of the week comes with a smile! 

In Minnesota it brings warmth as well. I welcome it! 

Another thing I am working on welcoming is contentment. 

I have never truly cared about what others thought about me, but facing daily pressures of keeping up a perfect body, job, diet, relationship, family, etc - it can become difficult to focus on what truly matters in life. Constantly relying on others for confirmation of my own self-worth is not only tiring, its unhealthy. Relying on the number of comments or the amount of likes I get on an Instagram photo to make me smile - is exactly what I must detach myself from.

Its habit to envy, become jealous, and want what I think others have. Its habit to dwell on what material things I am missing, what opportunities I have yet to see, what more I want to be doing, what more I think is necessary to be happy. Its easy to lose focus and forget the riches that are held inside of me. 

Contentment: A state of happiness or satisfaction.

I am working on living with contentment. 

Understanding that where I am in my life is a moment in time that should be cherished. 

The journey of getting or going somewhere should be admired just as much as the destination. Its all important. 

I can't wait for my daughter to start talking and walking, but I can to be content with the fact that she can't get into everything and that she only says enough babbles to make me smile. While I would love to own my own home today, I can be content in the opportunity I have right now to save up with my husband for our future. Although, I would love to be able to rock the newest pair of $800 Jimmy Choos, I can be content with the fact I can buy a new pair of shoes when I want them. Many can't. 

White Blouse - My sister's closet :) - Similar here, here

Blue Zip/Cuffed Skinny Denim Jeans - Gap - Similar here, here, here

White Lace Strap Flats - Agaci - Here! on Sale $15! 

I am content with who I am and where I am at today. 

I am content with what I am learning. I am content with what is in my heart. 

Contentment doesn't mean losing your dreams, or not reaching for the sky! Its embracing the process and dwelling in the current moment that you are in. Having joy in and through everything. When you have, and when you don't have. We can't take matters and things with us when we leave this earth.
Making the best out of our current hand is the best approach and a major key to true joy and happiness. 

In what ways do you make sure you keep content?

Have a great day!

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linking up: Stylish Tuesday, Fitness Blondie, More Pieces of Me, On the Daily Express, Stylish Saturday, VMG206, Midwest Bloggers, Tre Chic Thursday, Style Sessions

Paralyzed by Perfection

Happy Monday!

Hope the week is starting out great for you. 

For me it was a hassle getting over Sunday, but I accomplished getting to work this morning so that deserves a pat on the back. In fact, everyone pat yourself on the back if you have made it to your destination for the day. It took a lot of pushing to get you out of that bed this morning and on your way. Oh, and don't forget to thank our creator for the chance to see another beautiful day!

This past week I became extremely inspired about a project I have been working on since the beginning of this year. I cannot wait to share it with you all! Anywho, Yes, I became super inspired and enlightened on this project again. How many of you have ever taken a break from something you are working on, and when you pick it back up you have fresh new eyes to see things a bit more clearly? Well, that is exactly what happened to me. This project is something that I have been trying to make perfect before anyone can lay eyes on it, dotting my i's crossing my t's to ensure that everything goes off with a hitch. 

But does that ever work? 

I mean truly, how often do you plan for something and everything goes according to your plan? 

Almost never. 

At least not according to my plan, but always according to God's plan. (Proverbs 16:9) I recently experienced it with my wedding. Everything was planned at its proper time and those times went right out the window come D-Day. LOL Truth is, although the day came out beautiful and better than we could have imagined, our plans had little to do with the magic. 

So the other day, I was talking to Jesus. Literally driving and thinking, discussing the fact that sometimes we want things to be so perfect that it can paralyze us. I had put this project on hold because I became so involved in every minuscule detail that I was losing focus on the purpose for this project. God put this in my heart to do it and He told me that I needed to get back to the purpose and everything else will fall in line.  

It amazes me how our ideas of perfection can put us in a position where we never move because things are not as 'picture perfect' as we think they ought to be. I have seen very talented individuals sit on their talents because they are waiting for the perfect timing, or they want every little detail to be the best one out there when in reality our idea of perfection is not truly what makes something authentic and exciting for the ones we are trying to make it perfect for.

 How many of us know someone who can sing better than the winner on American Idol, or knows how to design and sew better than the Project Runway All-Stars?

 Or even someone that can cook an amazing meal comparable to a top-chef? 

They might not all want to relish and bask in the fruits of their talents, but for those that dream and want to and are doing nothing because they think they are not good enough and not perfect enough - you are doing nothing more than being a hindrance to yourself and your future.   

"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace"

-1 Peter 4:10

I am not saying just go out there with absolutely nothing in order, but I am saying take a leap when things are not as picture perfect as you may have wanted them, with experience they will get better. Expect and accept shortfalls. That is how you learn. 

Embrace mistakes, that is where you grow.

 And trust the process and experience. 

It has been developed by an almighty God who has it already figured out. 

Start Where You Are

Use What You Have

Do What You Can

-Arthur Ashe

I hope this inspires you the way I have been inspired this week. Don't sit on your gifts, embrace them. Get out there and do something! 

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Holiday Shine

Happy Thanksgiving!

After a long night at work, I am finally getting the chance to get home, relax and gear up for the festivities ahead of me. 

Food, Football, and Fun with the Family

Each year the family makes a menu of what everyone is bringing for dinner and we all sign up for what we are going to bring. In the past I have always been designated the dinner rolls and drinks girl. My family didn't trust me to cook them anything! HAHA! It's pretty funny now because although I am no pro, I can actually whip up a few things, as you see here. 

I've be promoted to homemade mac and cheese this year, YUM.. 

My favorite as I explained in this post here.

This sweater is another one of my favorites for this time of year. The holidays are the perfect time to bring a little sparkle into your wardrobe. I wore this to my godson's birthday party this past weekend, comfy and cozy is a must for me right now.

 I am thankful to be able to enjoy my pregnancy at a time of year where I am around lots of family and friends! And its the perfect time to layer up and still look put together effortlessly :)

Blue Shimmer Sweater - Can't Recall ??

Black tights - Heartbreaker

Brown Boots - Len Druskin

Gold Necklace - Thrifted

Brown/Gold Bracelet - Forever 21

I am thankful for my family, and the joy they bring me when we get together. 

I am thankful for my hubs and my daughter that keeps me up at night with her kicks. -_- She will be here so soon, I am nervouse and excited at the same time!

Lately, she has been pushing up under the right side of my ribs :( They are so sore, but it will all be worth it. One day I will tell her this story about how much mommy went through to bring her into this world. Of course, she won't understand until she is pregnant with her own. But I will still tell her. That's what mommies do.

Hope you enjoy your Thanksgiving!

-J

WIWW + Lesson in Love 2

Happy Hump Day!

Lately I have been reminiscing on my post about having true divine love (read here). 

 At 25 weeks pregnant, I often catch myself being moody. 

I am learning that although the hormones are raging, true love doesn't have moods. It works off of principals. It suffers long - which I can say this 9 month journey to motherhood has been quite the change. However, through the journey - true divine love is still kind. 

I was shown an example of how I need to show divine love, from my hubs, A. I came home at night after hanging with my girlfriends. He woke up as I got into bed, and I started to talk to him about my fears of childbirth. He was sleeping, but at that point my pregnancy hormones were taking over and I felt as if even though he said 'everything will be okay,' that he was not being as sincere as I needed him to be.

I immediately blew up at him. Calling him rude and insincere to my feelings. Finally we talked it out, and he apologized for not truly being able to relate or understand what I am going through. The next morning, I had completely forgot about my freak out - as most women can relate! 

I'll admit sometimes we just get worked up, and the next moment we are fine :)

A called me from work as I was getting ready to leave the house to start my day. He said he just wanted to check up on me, because he felt really bad that I had felt that way and wanted to ensure me that he is always here for me no matter what. I felt horrible for the way I treated him, and apologized but he insisted he was wrong and would work on trying to understand the way I feel - even if he was dead asleep in the middle of the night...

grey/black dress. burlington. necklace. heartbreaker. studded arm band. F21.tights. TJ Maxx. Boots. Gifted.

Wow, what a great example Jesus had shown me of how true divine love works. I have often gotten angry with people over a miscommunication and held a grudge or said I will definitely not be the first one to apologize. I have wished bad things to people to hope they would feel just as crummy as I felt. I have showed my love through my emotions, versus showing an unconditional divine love built on principals like God's love. 

I am reminded again of 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

4 Love suffereth long, and is kind; Love envieth not; Love vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 8 Love never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

What I learned and am working on is: 

Love suffers long, and is still kind - Even when things are not pretty and not going my way, still showing kindness and enduring it with a smile.  It is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil. - Being slow to react to situations that I do not like. Controlling my emotions, and not wishing bad feelings towards others.

I challenge you to do the same this week and let me know the results you get with it!

Like the look above? 

Click to Enter my Fall Must Haves Giveaway for a chance to win $25 to H&M, Fall Scarf & Candle :) 

Have a good day!

-J

Fall Maternity Must Haves & Outfit Post

Happy Saturday Loves!

Today, was a pretty wet day out and it was definitely chilly fall weather. Although I hate the winter cold, I get kind of excited when it gets sorta chilly out because I can layer up, drink something warm, and put on a cute pair of boots. Who doesn't like those things? 

So here's my list of my maternity must haves for fall:

one. cute pair of boots. I love the military boot look, comfy and looks like even though I have this belly I could kick your butt :) I've been eyeing this pair from Aldo for a little while now...

two. I love all fall smelling candles - pumpkin, spice, cinnamon, apple, vanilla.. Keep these babies burning in the house.Yum... 

three. At this phase in my pregnancy I am realizing that a skater dress is a great staple especially for fall. You can dress it up and dress it down, throw tights under it and with the waist line it helps to accentuate the bump.

four. A normal fall must have, scarves. Scarves are the best accessory as it helps you look put together even with a t-shirt and jeans on.

five. Warm drinks. These make me feel comfy and cozy, and since I have to stay away from caffeine - apple cider, hot cocoa, and pumpkin flavored drinks are a great alternative this season.

Stripes, Layers, Twists

Striped ruffled top. H&M. Coffee vest. Forever 21. 'Tuesday Baby Boot' Denim Jeans. Silver Jeans. Flats. DSW. Necklace. Etsy.

New hair, and loving the twists! On top of that I absolutely adore this outfit. I love the layers with the vest, and I like to embrace the bump right now so stripes help to do just that. 

I am also in love with these new jeans that Silver Jeans gifted me - Thank you! Anyone that knows me, knows I used to sell denim back in my retail days and Silver Jeans was one of the brands I would always put my guests into. It has been quite awhile since I have worn a pair of their jeans and I will say that was a huge mistake. I love the fit and quality of the denim and am definitely happy to be back in them again. 

Well that's all for now! 

Happy Saturday!

*I received Silver Jeans free of charge for the above product review, and I was not further compensated for my opinion. The reviews that I write are based solely on my personal opinion and remain unbiased. 

Pregnancy Essentials + Believing in God's plan

Happy Hump Day! 

I am excited it is half way through the week! Wednesdays feel so far away sometimes, but it's finally here. I am officially 19 weeks preggo, and if you have been reading you know that we are finding out the sex in two days! :) I told my family that we would have a revealing party on Sunday (If I can hold it in!)... We are going to have it either way, for me it's just a reason to get together and EAT. Since that's one of my many pleasures nowadays. 

I thought today I would share a few must haves that are especially important for me, this week at least..

1. Comfy, loose clothing. I seriously feel like dresses are the best way to go, they are light which is great for our current weather and they help you feel free *in all the right places* Ha!

2. Sunglasses. Of course with 97 degree weather and counting the sun is shining down. On top of SPF you must have some stylish shades. Also to hide the fact that you don't really want to wear makeup, you know what I mean!

3. SNACKS! I keep a few different snacks in my bag at all time. Because the little one is taking up space in my tummy, I can't even those big meals I love. I must nibble all day. White cheddar popcorn is my all-time fave. 

4. Cocoa Butter/Belly Cream. Smells so good and helps with those marks on the bod. Gotta take care of the bod. 

5. Water. Gotta stay hydrated, and its important to make sure you have a cute water bottle with you for it. You can always count on VS to get the job done. 

6. A fan. I often feel extremely exhausted and overworked after doing absolutely nothing. Like for example, after I eat. I feel like I've just run a mile. Fan is a must to keep cool as it's still smoltering hot here in MN. 

7. Last but certainly not least, cute comfy shoes. My feet are starting to look chubby.. And although I haven't packed on many pregnancy LB's yet, I know their coming so I gotta get comfortable. 

Exciting News!

So, I don't think I told you guys, but I have been looking into an opportunity to work in the marketing/interactive area at my job. Jesus actually led me to this position. Well, I got it! Got a raise! And start next week! AHHH! I'm super excited to get going, but I am obviously going to miss my girls in my current area! 

Jeremiah 29:11 

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end."

What I wanted to point out is the importance of following God's plan for you. Jesus told me back in January that sometimes we are not given things that we want, when we want them. This is because we are not always ready for them. Taking God's lead in everything will always lead us into the right direction, right on time. You see, He doesn't need any help. In fact His plan is so perfect, it already has a beautiful ending. We have to trust in God's plan, not our own, and know that He has the best plan for our lives. 

Have a great day!

Major Life Update.

So, there is something I have been waiting to share with you... 

We are 17 weeks pregnant!!

What an overwhelming excitement me and Adrian have been experiencing since we found out! Above are photos from my 8wk appointment. We are beyond happy and I can't wait to share all my crazy pregnant experiences with you all. 

I decided to kick off the baby news with an outfit post! 

It's been so long! 

I have a small bump right now... 

And someone photobombing my shoots.. 

Striped top. Nordstrom's Rack. Black Maxi Skirt. Windsor. Teal Necklace. Charlotte Russe. 

We find out in 3 weeks whether it will be a boy or a girl!

I will be happy with a healthy baby either way!

Cheers!

Got My Blue Shoes On + Giveaway!

Hey, Hey, Hey! 

We are more than halfway done with the week! Pat yourself on the back, for a job well done. We made it!
Also, thanks to all who participated in Monday's First You Choose!
It seems like you guys liked all of the looks but #2 & #3 with the black tights got the most votes! 

 I've finally got a treat for you!

Remember back at the beginning of the semester, 

where I was complaining about 

paying for textbooks?! ($$$$$)

(click here to refresh your memory)

 They are horribly expensive each semester. 

I don't understand  how they can charge an arm and a leg for textbooks and then update the textbook version each year! It's a stupid system, and I know all of you students out there can relate!

Thank goodness for textbook rentals! 

When I started searching the web for these, I ran into a number of sites, 

one of which was - www.CampusBookRentals.com ;
(I found books like this the same version that was offered at my school, but much more affordable!)

 Immediately, I returned $600 worth of books back to my schools bookstore, 

and ordered rentals online for under $200 for the semester! 

I saved SO much money, I went out and bought myself these pretty little blue shoes below...

Blue Scarf - Heartbreaker

Gold Necklace - Heartbreaker 

Tan T-shirt - Macy's

Distressed Light Denim Jeans - Love Culture

Blue Sandals - DSW

Handbag - My Mom :)

So, Guess What?...

I'm teaming up with CampusBookRentals.com to give
one lucky reader a $50 gift card to use on their site! 
You can use this for next semester's textbooks! :)


Here's why you should be renting textbooks from www.CampusBookRentals.com:

-#1 SAVE MONEY! You can save 40-90% off of bookstore prices!
-They offer free shipping both ways
-Treat the book like its yours during the semester, you can highlight in the textbooks
-They'll work with you by offering flexible renting periods
-Your money goes towards a great cause, they donate to Operation Smile with each textbook rented!

Here's How you Enter:
1) Be a Follower of My Blog on GFC or Facebook!
2) Leave me a comment
That's All!! Good Luck! 

Giveaway will end 5/17/2012 at 12:00 AM. This giveaway is sponsored by CampusBookRentals.com. All opinions are my own.  Winner will be chosen using random.org

I'm linking up here

Monday's Aztec Inspiration

Instead of taking the hippie route...

I decided to have some fun and dress it up, for something that could transform to the workplace. 

If your job lets you wear jeans (everyday) like mine...

 Then, you can easily take this Aztec trend and strut your stuff on the runway job!

Aztec print blouse - Heartbreakers

Black Blazer - TJ Maxx

Distressed denim skinny jeans - Levi's

Pale Bow flats - H&M

More 'PIN'spiration:

(images via pinterest, click for source)

H a p p y    M o n d a y.

And Finally, we have made it to Friday.

Hey Guys! Happy Friday!

I am so thankful that the work week is over, and I can finally just sit down and relax! 

Today at work I was so spacey...

I pretty much checked out a few hours early for the weekend....

Grey oversized winged shirt - Heartbreakers (This was on sale for $9.99!)

Bracelet - Len Druskin

Dark blue jeggings - Heartbreakers

Horn neckclace - F21

I'm sure everyone could tell. I was just not on my A-Game! Do you ever have one of those days where you are physically present at work, but not really there! Haha! 

Thankfully its Friday and I have a couple days before I have to get back in work mode. 

This weekend I will be on chill mode:

(click image for source)

Here's hoping your weekend is as relaxing as mine will be!