Long Cardi + Mules

I’m so excited that the temperature dropped just enough here in Dallas for me to wear this ribbed cardigan! I bought it during the anniversary sale at Nordstrom a few months ago, and it actually just went on sale 🙌🏻 I paired it with a fitted short sleeve sweater from Zara, a plaid skirt, and light pink mules. I love comfy outfits that are still stylish to wear out and about! The black short sleeve sweater I’m wearing is seriously SO soft, and it’s the perfect length to wear with skirts tucked in or out. The neckline is high and structured so that it won’t slouch when paired with a cardigan. I know this might sound weird, but have you ever paired a top with a cardigan and noticed that the top’s neckline became slouchy and the whole top kind of sat oddly on your body? Maybe it’s just me, but I hate when that happens! Seriously, you should give this short sleeve sweater a shot! It’s so comfortable, I could sleep in it 😮

Halogen Cardigan / Similar Halogen Cardigan /  Zara Top / Plaid Skirt is Old Topshop – Similar Here / BP Mules

Check Top with Frills

This is my new favorite top for Fall, and that’s saying a lot because I usually prefer sweaters over anything else during this season! I love the babydoll feel of this top and I’m also really feeling the color and pattern. The fit is TTS. I paired it with light blue denim and some nude suede block heels. I’m  5’10 and normally don’t wear heels, but when I do I always go for a chunky heel – so much easier to walk in!

I purchased a few other items from the 2017 Autumn collection at Zara that I’m currently wearing on repeat, so I went ahead and linked them below. Loving all of the ruffle sleeves and chunky oversized sweaters! Be sure to check out the $30 Zara denim I linked. They look so much nicer in person and are SO comfortable. I have seriously been living in them! I thought they would fall apart after a few washes, but they’ve been through the wash about 4 times now and still look new. Hope everyone has a lovely week!

Check Top with Frills / Topshop Highwaisted Denim / Nude Block Heels

Favorites from Zara 2017 Autumn Collection:

Oversized Sweater / Ivory Top with Ruffle Sleeves / Checked Shirt with Frills / Zara High Waisted Denim / Dotted Floral Top

Floral Dress with Sheer Sleeves

When I saw this dress at Zara I knew I had to have it, especially when I saw that it was only $38! I love that the embroidered flowers cover the front and back, and the sheer sleeves are gorgeous. I’m a sucker for anything with sheer long sleeves. 😊 It’s TTS but if you are tall, I recommend sizing up for the extra length. It definitely has a mini dress feel.

I’ve been wearing this “Plant Seeds of Love” bracelet everywhere lately! It goes with everything and it’s so well made! The designer is a local handstamp jewelry shop hear in Dallas. Her shop is linked below. Have a good week y’all!

Zara Dress / Expressions Bracelet

On the Table Workshops with The Iman Project + Lavender & Mint Designs

I’m so excited to share a little more detail about the workshops I’ve been raving about all summer! Before I share the details, I want to give a little background on why Bree’s workshops have meant so much to me. When I became a mom, I realized right away how hard it was to get away and do things by and for myself. I remember being pregnant with Max and telling my friends, don’t worry, I’ll still see y’all all the time. We can go to brunch and I’ll bring Max! Little did I know, attending brunch with a newborn is not relaxing. When I brought him with me, I would only be halfway listening to my friends while struggling to keep my sweet baby calm in the middle of a busy and loud restaurant. Of course my husband could have watched him, but any mom knows how hard it is to get out and do things alone, we like to spend time with our babies!

As Max has grown older, I’ve mourned the loss of my independent self. I’ve learned that if I go too long without having “me” time, I get burnt out. Spending time with Max and Michael and ignoring everything else is just too easy. When Max turned 2 I realized a few things, the first being that I had unconsciously retracted myself from my closest circle of friends. The thought of meeting a new friend was laughable, because I barely made time for the ones I had. I also realized that trips to Target during my lunch break and a rushed 30 minute pedicure had become my “me” time. That made me extremely sad, because REAL me time looks like this (in my opinion):

1. Coffee early in the morning by myself, spending time in the word, writing in my journal, and talking with Jesus.

2. Sharing a meal with a close friend. When we say goodbye, I walk away refreshed and my heart feels like it’s about to burst, because we have a ++ relationship. We both uplift each other and we don’t drain each other’s energy ( + – or – – )

3. Coffee by myself or with a friend followed by a real fancy mani/pedi, the kind where they bring out the hot rocks and wax!

You may have laughed reading these, because what mom has time for things like this regularly? We don’t! But guess what, it’s extremely important that we MAKE time for ourselves, and not feel bad about it, otherwise we risk losing ourselves completely. Earlier this year I was at that point, drained and feeling terrible that I wasn’t able to connect with friends and spend time on myself like I once so easily was able to do. Bree Clarke, creator of The Iman Project + Lavender & Mint Designs helped me get out of the rut I didn’t realize I was in. Bree and her husband own a local farmhouse table business here in Dallas. We met when I purchased the gorgeous table that is currently sitting in my dining area. A few months ago, I started seeing posts on her Instagram and Facebook for “On the Table Worskshops with a Purpose”. I texted my best friend and we both bought tickets to Bree’s floral design workshop. We arrived not knowing what to expect, but left feeling completely blown away. We created floral masterpieces, chatted with amazing women, and ate great food in a gorgeous atmosphere. When we left we could not stop talking about how much fun we had! We went home and immediately signed up for another event, this time a DIY succulent bar workshop. We had another amazing experience, and left feeling happy, refreshed, and ready to take on the week ahead.

Just when I thought Bree’s workshops couldn’t get any better, she announced a new kind of workshop series called MOMMY MODE: Celebrating Modern Motherhood. I attended her first Mommy Mode workshop in August by myself. I met some amazing mamas, including a few who are total mom bosses with their own companies. We chatted, talked about our kids, made our own candles, received mini makeovers, ate amazing food, (the food is always SO GOOD!) and we each took home a goody bag filled with fun treats. With each workshop, Bree creates a space where women can come together as strangers and leave as good friends.

Bree started On the Table and Mommy Mode workshops because she wanted to create an opportunity for women of all different backgrounds and walks of life to gather, relax, and have a great time. She understood that there were many women like me, in dire need of an excuse to get out of the house and connect while doing something fun! I am so thankful for Bree, her company, and her workshops, because they’ve not only inspired me to take more time for myself, but also to step out of my comfort zone and make new friends at 26 years old.

If you are interested in attending one of Bree’s workshops, please check out her Facebook and Instagram pages linked below to be kept up to date for future events and workshops. I’ve also linked three of her upcoming workshops this month! Be sure to sign up ASAP because spots fill up fast. 😊 You will not be disappointed! Her workshops are truly one of a kind. Also, if you are in need of a farmhouse table for an affordable price, contact her, because her farmhouse tables are seriously stunning!

Sep 16 – Frida Kahlo: Art Garden, Life Fall Painting Workshop 

Sep 21 – Texas Strong: A Hand Stamp for Hurricane Harvey Workshop 

The Iman Project + Lavender & Mint Designs Instagram Page

The Iman Project + Lavender & Mint Designs Facebook Page

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jord Watch

You’ve probably seen Jord watches (prounounced YODE) all over your Instagram feed lately. Jord is growing popularity quickly because of their unique wooden timepieces. My husband Michael had a hard time choosing his new watch because they have so many different colors and styles! He ended up choosing the Koa and Ash style in the Frankie series. The watch arrived in a beautiful wooden box and was even nicer than we expected! I love the large grey face and the wood looks so pretty against Michael’s tan skin. So far he’s worn it with button down shirts and golf polos. It honestly looks great with everything and he says it’s really light on his wrist.

A few days after the watch arrived, it actually went missing. We were freaking out and searched everywhere but we couldn’t find it. Weeks later, after we had given up searching, the watch reappeared in the strangest place! I was straightening out our TV on it’s wall mount and all of a sudden I heard a huge “clunk”. I panicked and thought I messed up the wall, looked down and there was the watch! We think Max (our toddler) got his hands on it, threw it, and then it must have landed perfectly behind the TV on the mount! We seriously couldn’t believe it and we were so happy to have it back! We also found tons of legos on the floor behind the cabinet under our TV, so Max must have went on a throwing frenzy 🙈 Lesson learned, don’t leave nice things around toddlers! I can also now say with 100 percent certainty, Jord watches are made to last and can withstand being dropped or thrown. Now that Michael has the watch back, he’s worn it to work every day since.

I’m giving away a $100 gift code to Jord so that you can purchase one of these watches for yourself or as a gift! One lucky person will win, but everyone who enters will receive a $25 consolation code once the contest ends. Contest ends August 20th at 11:59pm. Click the link below to enter!

Enter Giveaway Here:

https://www.woodwatches.com/g/dallasmamablog

Michael’s Watch:

http://www.woodwatches.com/series/frankie/koa-and-ash/#dallasmamablog

Jord Website:

http://www.woodwatches.com/#dallasmamablog

 

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Bell Sleeves and Light Denim

Saturday was such a fun day! My mom and sisters were in town for a visit and the first thing we did was grab coffee at a new shop that just opened in downtown Coppell. It’s called George: Coffee + Provisions, and it’s so dreamy!! If you live in the DFW area, I highly recommend you visit. The atmosphere is amazing and their coffee is so delicious.

While Max was taking a nap in the afternoon, I snuck away with my sister to photograph one of my favorite purchases from the Nordstrom Sale. I know everyone is so tired of seeing the N Sale all over their feed, but they really do have some great deals right now! This sweater is so comfy and only $30! I love that there is a fitted sleeve under the bell sleeve. It’s definitely a little warm for this 100 degree weather Texas is having right now, but I know it will be on repeat all winter long. It’s almost sold out in grey, but it still has a few sizes left in blue, and of course, it will likely be restocked after the sale. I’m wearing a Medium.

I’m so bummed because I wanted to link my bag as well, but it’s already sold out. I’m pretty sure it will be restocked after the sale, but it will likely be full price. If it comes back, I will be sure to let y’all know. It has the cutest little gold firefly! I think it’s around $45 at full price, and it also comes in black.

These jeans!! Let me tell you about these jeans. They are high waisted, super fitted, and so comfy! They are my first pair of Topshop jeans and I love them so much. I went up a size because Topshop denim typically runs small. They will  stretch while you wear them, but I still recommend going up a size. I was rushing to get dressed for pictures and totally didn’t realize that I had forgotten to cuff one of my legs! After pictures my sister said, “Oh, I thought that was the new style or something.” Haha! Definitely not.

My shoes are from Target and I like that they have block heels, otherwise I wouldn’t be able to walk in them. I need a wedge or a block heel to balance because I’m absolutely terrible at walking in heels. They are super cheap and go with everything. I hope everyone has a great week, and I will talk to y’all again soon! 🙂

Sweater / Jeans / Similar Jeans /  Heels

New Miffy Toys Available Exclusively at Walmart

Last week I announced on my Instagram that I am a new brand ambassador for Miffy! For those of you who don’t know, Miffy is the iconic white bunny created by Dutch artist Dick Bruna. Miffy has long been a favorite of children around the world, and with a Nick Jr. TV series and a new collection of books, she is fast becoming a beloved companion to American preschoolers as well.

Miffy now has her own product line available exclusively at Walmart! This weekend Max and I got to play with a few toys from the new line. The first toy we played with was a Miffy car. Max LOVED this. We took the Miffy car to the park and played with it in the shade behind the jungle gym.  Miffy was a huge hit with all of the other kids on the playground! At one point Max had a circle of kids surrounding him asking if they could play with the Miffy car too. Max loved the attention! After the park, we went to eat at our favorite outdoor restaurant, and Max had fun filling up Miffy’s backseat with pebbles. Her car got pretty dirty so we gave it a car wash in the bathtub when we got home. Miffy’s car looked good as new afterwards! I love how durable this playset is because Max is pretty rough with his toys, and the greatest part is that it’s only 12 dollars!

The second toy we played with was a plush animal named Snuffy. If you’ve ever watched Miffy on Nick Jr., you know that Snuffy is Miffy’s cute, playful puppy. Max adores Snuffy and carries him everywhere. Snuffy is only 6 inches long and fits easily in my purse when we are on the go. Walmart also has a Miffy plush animal and Melanie plush animal (Miffy’s best friend). I plan on getting the Miffy plush for him too so Snuffy can have a friend. Last night before bed Max shared yogurt pretzels with Snuffy, it was so cute!

I’ve linked our new toys from the Miffy collection below, along with a few others from the line. This collection is available exclusively at Walmart, both in stores and online. Our local Walmart doesn’t have the Miffy collection yet, but I learned that some stores have been slow to roll out the new product and all stores should have the Miffy line by August 1st. If you don’t want to wait, you can order your favorite Miffy toy online, or opt for the free store pickup option.

Miffy Little Blue Car / Snuffy Plush / Miffy Family Multipack / Miffy Plush / Melanie Plush

 

For fun Miffy activities, visit www.miffyfun.com 🙂

5 Summer Beauty Favorites

Today I’m sharing 5 of my favorite beauty products for summer.

1. Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Deodorant
I never thought I’d be this excited to write a review about deodorant but y’all, this stuff is WONDERFUL. I will never go back to regular deodorant. It smells amazing and it lasts all day no matter how active you are! I can go to work, hit the grocery store, pick up Max from school, make dinner, pass out by accident without changing to pajamas (it’s been known to happen once or twice), wake up the next morning wondering why I’m still in jeans and I still smell great!! The price is a little scary, but I promise it’s 100 percent worth it. You can find it at Ulta or Nordstrom.

2. Wet N Wild Bronzer
I had to follow my expensive antiperspirant with an amazing deal. This bronzer is the holy grail of bronzers, and it’s only 3 dollars! It gives the perfect, light, matte glow and it stays on all day. It’s similar to Hoola by Benefit but way less expensive. I’ve tried bronzers at every price point (In college I thought orange was a good look), but this cheap little bronzer is a slice of heaven. The only con is that the powder in the compact does break easily, so you can’t carry it around in your makeup bag. It will last you months If you keep it safe at home on your bathroom counter.

3. NARS Illuminator in Copacabana
I had my makeup done at the NARS counter a few months ago and was introduced to this. I’ve never been the biggest highlight fan. I’ve tried quite a few, including Becca, but I just end up looking like a disco ball. This highlight adds a beautiful glow to my extremely pale skin and it’s long lasting in the Texas heat. To apply, I swipe a tiny amount over my cheekbones and cupid’s bow.

4. IT Cosmetics Full Coverage CC+Cream With SPF 50
I used to think CC Cream = barely any coverage = only for people with perfect skin. I was totally wrong. I have uneven skin tone with redness like you wouldn’t believe, along with dark circles that I got the day I became a mother. I was using thick foundation thinking it would solve my skin issues, but it just made everything worse. This CC cream was recommended by one of my favorite bloggers and I decided I had to give it a try. I’m extremely happy I did because It goes on so light and evens out my skin tone perfectly! Bye bye redness and see ya later dark circles! I put this on every morning and it’s crazy how using just this alone completely brightens and evens my complexion. I use this in the lightest shade with my favorite NARS concealer in Chantilly and they go together perfectly. I feel like my skin can breathe now!

5. Dior Creme De Rose Smoothing Plumping Lip Balm
Okay y’all please don’t make fun of me for owning a $30 dollar lip balm, let me explain first! My best friend (Hey Anne 😘) let me borrow this when we were on a trip together. I put it on over my lipstick and fell madly in love. I’m constantly wearing lipstick because I have a small obsession with matte pink lips, so I feel like my lips are constantly dried out no matter how moisturizing the lipstick I use is. This balm keeps my lips moisturized for hours and I love how it feels! I now carry it with me everywhere. If you need more persuading, just look at the reviews 😊

I hope you enjoyed this post! Stay tuned next week because I have an awesome giveaway happening. Enjoy your weekend! xoxo

Current Favorite Shoes for Summer

My beautiful friend Caroline is a fashion blogger in Houston and she is the sweetest soul you will ever meet! We paired up to show y’all four pairs of shoes we are living in this summer. Max loves her and wanted to be in all of our pictures, so technically I’m sharing five pairs of shoes because I linked his too. I’ve known Caroline since middle school and some of my favorite memories with her include staying up all night watching Aquamarine and eating starburst jellybeans. I’m linking her Instagram and blog at the end of this post, so please go show her some love!

1. I love how we both chose shoes with studs. I’m seriously obsessed with Caroline’s rock stud heels! They’re even prettier in person and remind me of Valentino’s. Visit her blog linked here and below for the details on where to get them!

2. My Steve Madden Sandals have pearl studs, and I get compliments on them wherever I go! They are also insanely comfortable and I wore them every single day last week 🙈 I might need a backup pair.

3. Caroline’s Pom Pom sandals are so fun!  A few of our close friends were with us when we took pictures, and when she pulled them out of her bag everyone swooned. Also, how cute is her off the shoulder top and denim!? You can find out her full outfit details by visiting her blog linked here and below.

4. My taupe wedges are similar to the Marc Fisher shoes that every blogger has right now, but they are less than half the price! They are retro inspired and SO comfortable. I was able to pair these and the sandals with this really cute peplum pocket tank I found at Anthropologie. I don’t usually like tanks but this one is comfortable and flattering!

5. Lastly, Max’s shoes! Your little doesn’t need multiple pairs of sandals for summer, only these!  They are awesome because he can get them wet and they dry so quickly. They are also super easy to clean and comfortable on his feet. Perfect for school or the splash pad. I honestly thought these would be torn up by now with how active he is but they are so durable and will last all summer long!

Caroline’s Blog

Caroline’s Instagram

Comfy Sunday Tee

How cute is this embroidered tee!? It was a total impulse buy. I was at Anthropologie with Max the other day and saw the embroidery peaking out at me from a shelf while we were in line. I grabbed my size and thought to myself, hope this fits!! I never get to try anything on when I’m with Max. I tried it on when I got home and was so happy with how well it fit! The shape of it is a little boxy but it’s really flattering on my curves. I checked online and it also comes in grey and pink with different embroidery patterns. The embroidery is so much prettier in person.

I ended up wearing this tee with my favorite denim on Sunday to run errands. I was so comfortable and wanted to live in this outfit! Max, Michael, and I spent the day grocery shopping and picking out a big boy bed for Max. We were going to wait until he got closer to 3 to transition, but he’s getting so big and we decided it needed to happen now. We can tell he’s been getting uncomfortable in his toddler bed (converted crib). We bought a full sized, white-washed bed with drawers at the bottom for storage. It gets delivered in 2 weeks and Max is so excited! He keeps telling everyone that his new bed is coming on a truck. At the end of the day Max wanted to take a walk, so we walked down the street to a yummy hibachi restaurant. I had Michael snap a few pictures of my outfit while we we’re walking, and as you can see Max was having fun running around in the background 😂

I linked this top along with my favorite Paige denim and sandals below. If you haven’t treated yourself to a pair of Paige denim before, do it! The quality is fantastic and they are the next best thing to leggings. I linked the full price pair here, but Nordstrom Rack ALWAYS has Paige denim in stock for $70-80. Their online selection is sparse but they always have tons of pairs to choose from in store! I also linked my sandals and new favorite hair ties. I picked the hair ties up while I was at Anthro and they hold my hair so well!

Embroidered Tee / Paige Denim / Sandals / My Favorite Hair Ties /  Max’s Polo / Max’s Shorts / Max’s Shoes