So, tell me about yourself...

Checking up on all my blogger gals who hit up the start of NYC Fashion Week, I found this post from Design Darling, and thought it might be a fun thing to try. 

Favorite characteristic about yourself: (Physically) my curly hair (both a blessing and a curse, but by far, the first thing people notice about me) but the characteristic is my quick wit (some say sarcasm).

Favorite color combination: black with pops of bright color, lately pink.

Favorite flower: buttercups, hydrangeas, peonies 

You never leave the house without: iPhone, jewelry and lipstick (even if I'm in sweats)

You're secretly addicted to: nail polish and reality television

Now copy and paste the below questionnaire and share your 

responses in the comments! I'll be reading :)

Favorite characteristic about yourself:

Favorite color combination:

Favorite flower:

You never leave the house without:

You're secretly addicted to:

Oh, Deer

This post has been a long time coming, but I held off until I could give you the most bang for your buck (pun intended), so to speak. I noticed that Taylor Sterling was styling her home office/nursery with one of these precious ceramic deers (seen here and here), and didn't think much else of it. Until Christmas. 

My wonderful aunt, Mary Jane, had been paying attention to how much I loved Glitter Guide and Taylor, and she did her homework for a perfect Christmas gift: the coveted deer head. 

Now, the story goes that she "accidentally clicked the 'order' button twice" but either way, we all got deer heads for the holidays -- guys included. This seemed like it might be tricky, since not everyone was quite sure how to use theirs, but it turned out to be a lesson in creativity. A "beauty is in the eye of the beholder" type thing. 

If you follow me on instagram, you might have noticed that my Aunt used hers as part of her Christmas decor, complete with Peabody the Elf perched atop its antlers for optimal "watching" capabilities.

I use mine to hold and display my jewelry, instead of leaving it in a giant mess on my counter. It's proven to be very handy and quite cute, in my opinion. 

JT has his standing guard atop his china cabinet to add a bit of modern/fun manliness to an otherwise semi-girly piece of furniture (in that it holds fine china, but one look at the bar cart full of whiskey and you know, without a doubt, it's a man's dining room). And Emily plans to use hers in a book shelf for Bebe T's nursery incorporating hues of blue, cream and white. Adorable!

I love these little things so much, I'm contemplating reasons/places I could put these fun friends (click here, here, here, here or here for the fun friends I'm talking about). And bonus, these cuties are on sale currently. So pick up one (or three) of these stellar stags and unleash your creativity of where and how you can use yours.

Tone It Up Tuesday

It's not exactly a secret that I have been attempting a healthier lifestyle (even before the new year when it seems like everyone is). But sometimes (okay...often) I need a little extra motivation to get out of my cozy, plush bed and brave the arctic temps to warm up my car and head to the gym to get my fitness on. 

I honestly find motivation in the strangest yet simplest places, and wanted to share a few with y'all (in case you're a mere mortal like me, and healthy/fit life is a constant battle of not eating the cinnamon chips or pack of starburst but still wanting that adorable bathing suit that's on sale).

The Bella Twins:
I admit it, I fully enjoy Total Divas, and not only to I watch it faithfully... I use their instagrams (Nikki's here and Brie's here) to keep me motivated. See here, here, here, here, or here for motivational images of them to inspire you. It's easier to do 5 more minutes on the stair master when you know Nikki is essentially squatting with the weight on a semi-truck on her back. At least for me anyway...

The Tone It Up/Toned Up girls:
Special thanks to Merebear for telling me about them b/c now that Total Divas is on hiatus, I need some female fitness motivation (not the scary kind that is what I tend to think weight training does/not at all what I want my end result to be [for example: this terrifying image]). Katrina and Karena have a successful web-series turned Bravo tv show where they help normal average ladies feel good about themselves and set fitness goals -- all while being fabulously quirky much like Mere and me (as in they text each other from the same apartment to tell each other night when they already said it 5 seconds ago anyway... guilty as charged). Their instas are full on motivation (examples here, here, here, and here) to eat a spinach salad instead of the above mentioned bag of starbursts (again, guilty as charged).

So, with the help of these motivators, I'm finding it a little easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle instead of chasing a number on a scale or feeling bad about a glass of wine after work.

Any other fitness role models y'all have out there?? I'm always looking for others.

On the first day of..

Glitzmas, I gave to myself....

one. golden. manicure.

{sung in First Day of Christmas tune}

I seriously cannot believe there are only 12 days 'til Christmas (or Glitzmas, whichever you prefer). Technically, I think there are only 11 days since I count Christmas Eve as Christmas proper, but nevertheless... it's quickly approaching. 

As a reward for getting all of my Christmas shopping done (and nearly everything wrapped) I allowed myself to go all out for a festive Christmas mani. 

How are you prepping for the holidays?

Transformation Tuesday

For the most part, these transformations are reserved for awkward family photos or hilarious moments in the past compared to what you are now. In that regard, the title fits. 

No, I'm not including any awkward photos of myself (though Lord knows they exist), but rather I am addressing something that was not-so-subtly pointed out to me today: I'm willingly turning into Taylor Sterling.

Granted, I don't see this as a bad thing, nor does the glamorous individual who said it to me, but there's something to be said for the fact that I literally found out who she was a week ago and now stalk her every instagram post.

For those who don't know, Taylor Sterling is the founder and creative director of The Glitter Guide. She has a successful website, an adorable family, and a love for metallic polka dots (for this reason it was only a matter of time before our paths crossed).

She has a bebe (Elodie--yes, as in The Hills... as Mere would say, clearly she was team Heidi) on the way, a nursery that rivals royalty in cuteness, and somehow looks more glamorous at 9 months pregnant than I did going to a college formal. Added bonus, she's friends with my gal Julie of Gal Meets Glam.

 

{the coveted gold sheets}

I recognized the transformation was happening almost instantly. Yes, i share a love of gold, stripes and polka dots, but the fact that I found where her bedsheets are from (PB Teen) should have been my first clue. Next came the auto-correct of her name when I type in "Instagram" on my computer. Finally, please avoid Pinterest unless you want to see bookoos of annoying pins from me.

 

{yes, this is Taylor. The image everyone repins... it's actually her}

Again, I reiterate that I don't think having mentors is a bad thing, but there is a line of finding yourself instead of plugging yourself into a mold someone else created. Case and point, I am in love in Inslee Haynes. Truly, madly, deeply. Her illustrations make me smile, even when I have no relation to the image. Part of me (okay, a lot of me) views her blog and thinks "Wow, if only I could do _____."

I've since turned this obsession toward Taylor. When does designating a mentor cross a line into wanting to follow their footsteps instead of forging your own path/success? This is something I really gotta work on. Any advice is appreciated.

I can't help but think of when my friends and I used to mock a stereotypical sorority girl (which we are- minus Eddie, who would ask the questions to us) by saying, "Q: What's your favorite band? A: Trotline!, Q: What's your favorite color? A: Glitter!"

Although I do find it a bit ironic that one of my favorite colors really is gold (glitter) now.

Deck the Halls

 

This is how I like to imagine I look as I decorate... the reality is me in sweats and a top knot covered in ornament glitter and garland watching Christmas classics and dragging boxes down our pull-down attic stairs. Either way, I'll take it. It's decorating time, folks!

In honor of tomorrow's festivities (hanging tinsel on anything that stands still long enough), I painted my nails bright Christmas red. The jolly color is technically Essie's "Really Red," but hey, who am I to get caught up in technicalities. They'll no doubt be chipped and broken after lugging boxes and stringing lights outside, but I couldn't be more excited. 

In normal tradition, my family decks our halls the Saturday after Thanksgiving, but since Thanksgiving is late this year... we wanted ample time to enjoy the trimmings and trappings before 2014 forces us to take them down. 

This year, I even have two houses to decorate! My family's house, which Lulu and I try to make the North Pole, and JT's house, which will be just enough to make neighborhood kids not think he's a  Scrooge (he's been very generous and allowed me to do as I please, but I'm trying to limit myself to areas of the house including the mantle, a tree, and the front porch). I cannot wait. I'll share the finished product with y'all soon!

Is it tomorrow yet?!

Birthday (eve) Revelations

On the eve of the dawn of my 24th year on this earth, I figured it was time to share some of the fabulous things that have happened this year. And let me just say, it has been a fabulous year.

-I began the dreaded process of paying back my student loans. But, I have realized through countless conversations that every single penny is worth the education and friendships Samford afforded me. Believe me, it's ZERO fun giving my paycheck to Sallie Mae (a stern mistress), but I loved SU... so it's a love hate relationship.

-I grew deeper in my relationship with the Lord. Which began during my 22nd year, continued through this past year, and hopefully will only grow stronger as I move forward. Through thick and thin, he's the one I can count on, even when everyone else fails me (as humans tend to do).

-I found out I get to be an aunt/nana anna. It wasn't always an easy road for my sweet big sissy and brother ben, but the Lord's timing is more perfect than our own. I cannot wait to meet our lil nugget come april. I know he'll be our little prince.

-I have had not one but two fabulous, fun-filled TNB reunions. I can't begin to describe them, so I won't even try. But in case the instagrams didn't depict it well enough... they were a blast.

-I fell in love. I'm not one for super sappy-ness .. (well, except for here), but it's true. I'm so incredibly grateful for this relationship. The Lord works in mysterious ways, and I never would have guessed going to a halloween party would make me so very happy.

-I planned my very first event for work. Granted, I went to the bathroom in a long meeting and came back with the assignment, but it was amazing, if I do say so myself. But don't take my word for it... ask anyone who was at the MBQ Innovation Awards.

-I became a true Grizzlies fan and I now bleed Tiger Blue. I picked a "random" Grizz player in order to "not be a bandwagon fan" and lo and behold QPon now has his very own billboard. And in case you've been living under a rock... I'm obsessed with tigers.

-I completed my first cleanse...and survived.

-I purchased my very own gym membership (no aid from mis padres). For which I am very proud. 

-I have met fantastic people in Memphis and made connections elsewhere. Cheers for networking.

-I have realized that while I am a 23 (almost 24-year-old) living in my (redone) childhood room with my (awesome) parents, paying off student loans (goal is only a few months away, praise the Lord), and commuting over 30 minutes (one-way) to get to work everyday.. I'm beyond freakishly happy.

So, as I enter this new year of life, I choose to actually live it. And choose to be happy, no matter the circumstances. Because the ups and the downs are what keeps things interesting. And I do, wholeheartedly believe that happiness is a choice.

So, who's with me?

Worthy Words of Wisdom

God made a very obvious choice when he made me voluptuous; why would I go against what he decided for me? My limbs work, so I’m not going to complain about the way my body is shaped. 

Drew Barrymore

Thanks to Bekah for these encouraging words on a rough Monday back in the reality.

*sidenote, I'm obsessed with Drew almost as much as I am Katy Perry. Congrats on bebe #2.

Happy Happy, Happy

Last night when I crawled into bed, I began saying my prayers as I tend to do. But then, I paused, opened my eyes and smiled.

I have been trying to get into the habit of praising and thanking God first in my prayers before I petition my wants etc. This habit has sunk in enough that sometimes, I fall asleep praising God and never even get to me (a perfectly lovely way to fall asleep if you ask me).

The reason I paused and smiled last night was because I didn't know what to ask God for once I was done thanking him. I'd gone through the very long list of things in my life that I'm oh-so grateful for, and in the end, there was nothing left. I paused because I'm truly, genuinely happy. And I have no one but God to thank for each and every blessing.

I smiled because He's allowed:
-me to have a fabulous relationship with my parents again after a rocky few months senior year
-my relationship with my cousin and sister to never miss a beat, even though I know I'm a handful
-my friendships with my besties have stayed in tact through milestone, joys, and many miles
-a guy who makes me smile like a fool for no reason at all other than his presence in my life
-a job I love with co-workers I enjoy being around
-a country where I'm free to shout from the rooftops how much I love my Savior, and how much he loves me
-a cozy roof over my head
-a relationship with Him that's equal parts tough love and compassion
-a strong, healthy "bebe T" to be auntie to next spring
-and health and happiness to my sweet loved ones

Heading into the holiday season, I challenge you to count your blessings, and you'll probably smile too.

#SappyPost

Exactly one year ago today....

It was a cold, rainy Friday. It had been a long week, and after sitting in traffic for what seemed like for.ev.er. I finally made it home. I had previously been invited to a Halloween party by Richie B, and had all but decided to take a rain-check as my cozy couch was calling my name. Plus, I didn't have a costume I felt like wearing downtown (Katy Perry would draw too much unwanted attention if ya catch my drift). Plus, I had absolutely no desire to make the trek back downtown to Metro 67 since I'd just commuted from there.

No one was home, so my not-so-little cousin and precious wheata woo came over to my house to hang out, or so I thought. She proceeded to explain to me how lame it was that I wanted to sit at home on a Friday night when I had a perfectly good invitation to a Halloween party. 

I gave the usual excuses: it's raining and cold, I don't have a costume, I won't know anybody, it's a long way, I'm tired, I'll have to drive back late and that's unsafe blah, blah, blah. 

Her rebuttal? You always say you want to make new friends, you know this is the perfect opportunity, you love holidays, it's not that far, the rain will probably stop soon, and do you really want to sit on the couch alone? Also, she brought a costume. (pause for a moment to realize my wheata woo is insanely great and would make a phenom lawyer due to her impressive arguing skills). 

She had a valid point, and a costume. So, I put on my traditional black uniform, threw on her "official" Katniss jacket and pin, braided my hair, and hit the road.

Guess what? She was right. On all accounts. I did make new friends, the rain did stop, and I met a "Mexican" who asked for a picture with me and my number to take me to sushi.

A few hours at Silky's, a Dyer's burger, and some chicken minis later... and things would never be the same.

So thankful Ashleigh talked me into going to Richie's party where I met a guy in a poncho and sombrero, also known as JT. It's been a fabulous year.

Crazy how God works, huh?

Rain, Rain...

...you can stay.

I get to wear my (moss green) Hunter boots today.

(and flannel. and a scarf.)

Cozy, cuddle weather is upon us, folks. 

And I, for one, couldn't be happier.

Spring has Sprung

Happy First Day of Spring 

(even though the low in Memphis today is 28 degrees.. woof). Looking forward to enjoying the longer days, warmer weather, pastels, holidays, and springy goodness!

Match Point

You've probably heard it said that,

 "comparison is the thief of joy." 

Well, it's been on my mind a lot lately. Why must we always want what we don't have? Why does the grass always seem greener on the other side? Enough is enough. My new goal for myself is to enjoy every minute of every day and not try to match my life up to others. My mom, wise woman that she is, has told me that if everyone in the world dumped their problems into a pile, you'd probably grab yours right back. So, it's time I started living as such.. by dwelling on these helpful reminders:

 

Wise words from Dita Von Teese. 

It's literally impossible to please everyone.

 1 Peter 3:3-4

Mane Maintenance

It's time again for me to get my hair done, and every single time I find myself annoyed. Partially because I'm no longer a natural blonde (shocker), but mainly because, if I'm honest, I've had the same hair style since 7th grade (yikes!).  

I get that the saying is "you always want what you don't have," but is it really so much to ask to have a slightly updated do after a decade?? 

My process is always to google or pinterest "curly hair" and (yikes again) apparently everyone has had the same hair style since 7th grade. unless, of course, the go to the dark side aka straightening it. Don't get me wrong, I like straight hair just fine. You can brush it, style it, cut it, and even put bobby pins in it, all of which I cannot do. But, as those who know me can attest, I value sleepy substantially more than style (and the fact that my hair is never actually ever technically straight even after hours of work); hence, the curls.

So, here's what I'm workin' with people. If you have suggestions, by all means, shout 'em out now:

 A very large part of me says screw it and fro it up like some of these ladies. Thoughts?