Babies & Bluejeans

Everyday Maxi (On sale)

2017-12-05T01:00:00.000-08:00

This skirt is one of my favorite recent purchases. I also got in blue and these skirts are very comfortable, classic and easy to style. They are on sale right now, and I might have to buy in red too!

Outfit Details:

Sweater LOFT // Skirt LOFT // Scarf LOFT (last year) Similar //

Handbag Target Similar// Shoes Amazon

Neutral Blazer

2017-11-16T01:00:00.000-08:00

Shop the Look:

Blazer J Crew via Thred Up, Similar // Cami LOFT // Denim Leggings LOFT //

Ankle Boots (old) Amazon , Similar // Necklace Similar

One super easy look for fall is a blazer with a blouse type camisole. That is probably not the right terminology (ha), but basically, a cami that is a poly blend as opposed to a cotton tee or tank. Of course, I love a good cotton tee, but cotton tends to cling on me in all the wrong places. Not to mention, these LOFT camisoles, look a little more dressed up than your average tee.

Here is another blazer and cami look I wore last fall. I have purchased both these blazers at consignment shops because I have noticed they tend to keep their shape and don't really go out of style. I also linked a few more blazers below since mine is old. I especially love the velvet blush camisole paired with the burgundy blazer. I am trying not to shop anymore though until spring so maybe next year!

As much as I enjoy fashion, I often feel silly writing about it since it is such a small part of my life and obviously not very important. Especially as women, I feel God puts it on our hearts to be searching for and surrounding ourselves with beauty - from breathtaking sunsets during a stressful drive home to tender moments between loved ones amidst a day of chaos. I recently came across this touching article where she very eloquently states the importance of recognizing and appreciating those beautiful moments as gifts.

Thanks for reading!!

~ Rose

Swing Dress & Kimono

2017-10-20T04:00:00.000-07:00

I love the Lou & Grey line from LOFT and when it occasionally goes on sale now for 50% off, I always try to pick up a basic piece. This "suede dress" is soo soft and the color is perfect for fall. I plan on pairing it with some deep purple or camel layers as it gets colder. Swing dresses are great, but I rarely wear them alone. For my body type, I feel I need to add a jacket or cardigan to add more shape to the look. So basically, you may want to try it with some layers before you give up on it!

Thanks for reading!

~ Rose

Outfit Details:

Dress LOFT (Similar) // Kimono Shop Ruche (Similar) // Sandals Amazon //

Necklace LOFT //

Seamed Maxi

2017-09-26T00:05:00.000-07:00

I've been a little absent on here lately for two reasons. One, we have started a new year in our homeschool routine and two, my baby has started eating/throwing solid foods so it has been a little pointless to throw on anything other than a T-shirt and jeans in the morning. Now that we have kind of discovered a flow to our day, I hope to be posting again because I really do enjoy it!

It may seem a little narcisstic but it is a creative outlet for me. Much of my days are steeped with dirty diapers, dishes, dolls and lessons so it's something fun I am able to do for myself without having to leave the kids.

These maxi skirts are great and pair well with tops of any silhouette. I also plan to wear them throughout all seasons. I am pretty sure they will look great with boots and booties as well!

Thanks so much for reading!!

~ Rose

Outfit Details:

Skirt // Sweater Tank, Similar // Necklace, Similar //

Bandeau, Nordstrom // Sh oes // Bag, Similar

Add caption

Poolside Maxi

2017-09-25T10:06:00.002-07:00

I know summer has officially ended, but temperatures here are still pretending like it's still if full force. Now, since retailers are making room for fall inventory, it is a great time to stock up on any basics you need for summer. A pretty summer maxi is a great addition to your wardrobe and can be worn to Church, picnics or festivals. I paired it with a basic camisole and an olive colored cardigan to make it look a little more appropriate for fall. Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Outfit Details:

Skirt // Camisole // Cardigan // Shoes, DSW, Similar //

Necklaces here & here

Tie Shoulder Sweater

2017-08-09T01:00:00.000-07:00

It has cooled down a little bit here in the midwest, so it was perfect weather for this cold shoulder sweater I purchased at LOFT at the beginning of the summer. This sweater was a final sale item and only a size Large was available so it is a little big on me. I had been saving it to wear for some kind of special occasion, but then I realized that I really like it so why don't I just wear it?? Does anyone else do that? I feel like I do that way more often than I should. Anyway, love these flowy shorts too. I can't stand it when shorts ride up or stick to your legs, so I rarely wear them, but these are great!

Thanks for reading!

Outfit Details:

Tie Shoulder Sweater LOFT (couldn't find it online) Similar Style // Shorts LOFT // Shoes Similar //

Necklaces LOFT here and here // Sunglasses LOFT

Best Dress

2017-08-07T13:20:00.001-07:00

I purchased this dress on a whim last year during my pregnancy and I have worn it SO much. It is lightweight and easy to wear for all seasons. I wore it three ways here and have worn it numerous times as well. If I am not wearing a cardigan with it, I definitely need a bandeau underneath, but other than that it is perfect!

Outfit Details:

Dress LOFT, Similar Style // Bandeau Nordstrom, Similar //

Plaid Shirt J Crew Factory, Similar style // Shoes, similar //

Necklace LOFT //Sunglasses LOFT // Diaper Backpack Vera Bradley

Bright Yellow

2017-07-17T09:38:00.001-07:00

I have been pretty absent here lately. Unfortunately, my husband's sweet Grandma passed away, so we made an unexpected trip to MI over the Fourth of July holiday. She was married to my husband's grandfather for 61 years! Such a beautiful testament to the sanctity of marriage and commitment. She took such good care of her husband and family and was constantly making sure everyone was well fed and happy. Right before she passed, we also adopted a puppy! He has brought a lot of joy (and a lot more chaos) to our family, and it was really comforting for the girls to have him as they dealt with yet another funeral (both my husband's parents passed away last year). We have a few traditions we have instilled to try and keep their memories alive, but I would love to hear any of your ideas as well.

A few weeks ago on a slightly cooler day, I paired this sundress with a tan faux leather jacket and sandals. Sundresses are super easy to nurse in and comfortable too. I don't typically like to wear shorts so I am always on the hunt for casual dresses that are nursing friendly. I linked a bunch below as well! Thanks for reading!

~ Rose

Outfit Details:

Sundress LOFT (last year) Very similar option here// Jacket New York & Company //

Sandals DSW, Similar

Sweater Tank

2017-06-13T08:32:00.002-07:00

This cozy sweater is the perfect top to carry you through those days when the weather is transitioning from spring to summer. The weight of the knit keeps you a little warmer while your arms don't get too hot! (I am always hot!) Also, love any top that is long enough to wear with leggings! This is on sale too!

Linked some more of my favorite summer sweaters after the break!

Thanks for reading!

~ Rose

Outfit Details:

Sweater Tank LOFT // Leggings LOFT // Necklace LOFT // Shoes Target //

Bag Gift Similar //

MORE SUMMER SWEATERS:

Summer Fun

2017-06-12T07:34:00.002-07:00

Today, I'm taking a break from my usual "style" related posts and talking about our summer routine. Even though we homeschool, and my kids are always home, I was still a bit anxious about having no routine or structure during our summer months. While our daily schedule varies from day to day during the school year depending on the needs of the little ones, we still have expectations and deadlines that need to be met and a purpose to be fulfilled. Last summer, was a bit chaotic with kids bickering about what they wanted to do that day, kids begging to do a craft but not having any of the correct materials, kids asking for electronics and so on. So this summer after seeing Monica's post here, I was determined to create a similar schedule with a weekly focus. I love how she chose a theme for each week and then planned a coordinating activity and field trip. I stole a lot of her ideas for themes, and also based a theme or two off of what we were already doing that week. I then went to https://www.education.com/ and printed off all sorts of worksheets related to the themes for my younger and older kids alike. I placed all the worksheets in a folder for each of the kids and they were super excited. We plan to go to the library on Mondays and pick out books that reinforce the topic, then do a craft on Tuesday, then go on a Field Trip to further explore the subject. Here are some of my ideas:

Week 1 Starfish, Dissect Starfish at Museum

Week 2 Manners, Go out to "fancy" dinner

Week 3 Sewing, Take a sewing class

Week 4 USA Mock Interviews with US Presidents/Heroes

Week 5 Government, Springfield, IL

Week 6 Money/Budgeting, Bake Sale/Lemonade Stand/Bank

Week 7 Art, Local Felting Class

Week 8 Dinosaurs, Field Museum

Week 9 Egyptians, Field Museum

Week 10 Rocks, Quarry Beach

Week 11 Beach

I included some pictures of our calendar and the workbooks for the kids below.

By the time I finally completed this post, we had already finished our "Starfish" week and it was a lot of fun! We created our own tide pools for the craft and the girls really enjoyed it. (Now I am just trying to figure out what to do with all of them!) We also had plenty of time throughout the week for free play and going to the pool. Some of the kids were interested in the worksheets and some were not and that was totally fine. I also have a couple of chores the older three kids are required to do before breakfast which has also been very helpful. They do receive $1.00 if they do their chores without being prompted. My 9 year old has to bring up any folded laundry, fold any clothes I did not get to the night before and begin making breakfast. My 7 year old has to unload the dishwasher or load any dishes I did not get to the night before and take out any garbage or compost. My 5 year old has to wipe down the bathroom counters and sinks (mainly just for the toothpaste that they manage to get ALL over!) I am not an expert at enforcing this yet, but we are getting into a really good rhythm thanks to a good friend's advice! Would love to hear your ideas on making your household's run smoothly!

Thanks so much for reading! !

Printed Tee

2017-05-31T08:08:00.000-07:00

Hello! I know this outfit isn't really anything special, but I try to feature everything I wear, dressed up or dressed down. I usually opt for solid colors as they pair with more items, but I also like to have a pretty printed top when I feel like throwing on jeans and a tee.

These sandals are so comfortable! They are from Born and they are great for lots of walking- the foot bed is so supportive and soft at the same time.

Also, linked some more affordable printed tees after the break.

Thanks so much for reading!

Outfit Details:

Tee LOFT // Denim LOFT // Shoes // Crossbody Bag Target, Similar //

Sunglasses LOFT // Necklace LOFT Similar

MORE PRINTED TEES:

Pink & Olive

2017-05-18T08:50:00.003-07:00

When the crab apple trees were blooming a couple of weeks ago, their vibrant pink colors looked so gorgeous against the green grass and trees. The beautiful colors inspired me to pair those hues in my closet as well! I linked some other great pink and olive pieces too after the break.

Thanks so much for reading!

Outfit Details:

J Crew Factory Sweater // Kohl's Vest Similar Style & on Sale // LOFT Necklace Similar //

Aerosoles Wedges Amazon //

SHOP THE LOOK:

Floral Dress

2017-05-10T10:35:00.000-07:00

A pretty swing dress is the perfect piece for a casual day out, especially now that it is starting to get warmer. I love this print from Pink Blush and this vest helps to add a little shape and polish to the dress. The swing silhouette helps to conceal my postpartum belly too.

I also added some other affordable floral dresses and different colored utility vests after the break.

Outfit Details:

Floral Dress Pink Blush, Similar // Utility Vest Kohl's Similar // Wedges Amazon // Crossbody Bag Target, Similar // Necklace Target, Similar

SHOP SIMILAR LOOKS:

Pink Blush Wrap Dress

2017-04-26T08:16:00.001-07:00

Ever since I was introduced to Pink Blush, I have been hooked! Their dresses and tops are very versatile and are flattering to all shapes, sizes and stages of life. The fabrics are also flowy, wash well and comfortable. I have also worn dresses from Pink Blush here, here and here. I am giving away a $50 gift card to Pink Blush on my instagram @babiesandbluejeans, so make sure you check it out!

Outfit Details:

Denim Jacket (old) Similar // Floral Wrap Dress Pink Blush // Choker LOFT, Necklace Kohl's, Similar // Ivory Clutch, Similar // Aerosole Wedge Amazon

SHOP THE LOOK:

Mommy Style Monday: Me Time

2017-04-24T07:43:00.002-07:00

Happy Monday! Hope everyone had a good weekend! Today I am collaborating with some other ladies on the topic of "Me Time".

Before Thomas was born, we had established a good routine of my husband taking the kids out of the house for a few hours every once in a while I got caught up on housework. While that was always refreshing to catch up on chores and actually formulate complete thoughts and finish tasks (impossible to stay on task with kids around), I also found it helpful for ME to get out of the house! When Thomas gets a little older, I'd like to make it a priority to go to the coffee shop or library at least once a month by myself and focus on creating lesson plans, meal plans and blog ideas. But for now, while I'm not quite ready to leave Thomas, my "me time" has consisted of pampering myself in the bath and catching up on some inspirational reading and guidance.

I have felt a little overwhelmed recently at my 9 year old growing up so quickly and I've felt a little unprepared on how to navigate topics such as abortion, terrorist acts, material things, technology and even the very beginnings of the "birds and the bees" talks. When my daughter asked me what a abortion was, my heart literally dropped and it made potty training feel like a piece of cake! Thankfully, she has not asked about sex yet, but it might not be as long as I hoped for the subject to arise, so I really want to be ready with a gentle yet informative response. When my husband and I were first engaged, we did not have a true understanding of the Church's teachings on this topic. It wasn't until we were going through Pre Cana classes and were introduced to St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body that we truly began to understand God's design and plan for marriage and human sexuality. I recently bought this book to read during my "Me Time" and then with my 9 yr old when she starts asking questions and I feel she is capable of understanding the information. I feel a little more at peace knowing I have some resources to help me navigate this uncomfortable topic.
Another topic I have been concerned about lately, is entitlement. We live in an age where you can receive instant gratification in so many avenues; shopping, communication, entertainment etc. I really want to teach my children to be grateful regardless of their circumstances, obstacles and heartbreaks. As we get older, there are so many times when life doesn't give us what we think we want and I feel the best way to overcome that is having a grateful heart. Yesterday, was an absolutely beautiful day and one of my girls complained that it was "too hot"!! She was half kidding, but it was still an opportunity to teach her the importance of expressing gratitude for the beautiful weather God provided. I have started to read Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World during my "Me Time" in the bath and again, this book has given me confidence to approach this issue.

I always hesitate before publishing a post like this because I don't want to sound like I think I have all the answers (I know for certain that I don't HA!), but I love reading other Moms perspectives on these issues so I thought I'd offer mine as well. What books, philosophies and practices on parenthood do you all recommend? I'd love to hear your suggestions!

Lastly, I love to soak in the tub with my favorite essential oils and Epsom salts, and rejuvenate my skin and hair with various masks and conditioning treatments. I wasn't intending on using this post as an ad to sell my favorite products, but if you are interested in more details, let me know!

Don't forget to check out what these other ladies do for their Me Time:

Madeline at CaseyLand

Rachel at Tutus and Heels

Monica at It's All About

Rose at Babies & Bluejeans

Melissa at The Frolics of Mama Llama

Britt at My Little Sunshine

Lace Top

2017-04-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

Lace seems to be a big trend this spring and I love the variety of lace tops, dresses and skirts that retailers are selling this season. The delicate lace fabric makes any outfit look polished and feminine without many accessories. Love this top from LOFT and they have some other great options that I linked below. Thanks so much for reading!

~ Rose

Outfit Details:

LOFT Lace Top, Similar// LOFT Pants (On clearance)// Kate Spade Diaper Bag (gift), Similar // Earrings Franchesca's Collection, Similar // Carlos Santana Ankle Boots

More Lace Tops:

Floral Skirt

2017-04-05T12:22:00.001-07:00

This outfit is probably one of the most comfortable outfits I have worn in a long time! Comfort and range of motion are key when you have a baby and an active toddler. This turtleneck from LOFT is basically a glorified sweatshirt and this "Cassie Skirt" from Lularoe is stretchy and super soft. This skirt happens to be a large which I like because of the length and the fact that it is not clingy at all. The medium fit me fine too, but the large gives a little more casual feel.

I linked a very similar turtleneck but could not find the exact one. I also included some other floral skirts and turtlenecks (some short sleeved and sleeveless) at the end of this post! Thanks so much for reading!

~ Rose

Outfit Details:

LOFT Turtleneck, Similar // Lularoe Skirt // LOFT Necklace, Similar //

Kate Spade Diaper Bag (gift) Similar // Carlos Santana Ankle Boots

Navy & Yellow

2017-03-31T01:00:00.000-07:00

I have had this casual navy skirt for a while, but never really knew what color tights and shoes to wear with it. Last fall, I purchased these gray ankle boots from Amazon and they really pair with every outfit! The color matches with any color and the style goes nicely with skirts, pants and denim. Plus, the heel is a good height for me.

Thanks so much for reading!

~ Rose

Outfit Details:

Merona Yellow Cardigan, Similar // Banana Republic Tee // LOFT Skirt Similar //

LOFT Necklace, Similar // LOFT Gray Tights // Carlos Santana Boots

Lace Hem

2017-03-29T10:58:00.004-07:00

I love the "lace hem" trend that has been popping up over the last few years because it lengthens the silhouette of the top and helps to conceal my tummy. Plus the lace adds a feminine touch that is so pretty. Speaking of "my tummy", this denim leggings are pretty much the only pants that I can fit into right now. With my other babies, I was able to at least squeeze into some of my jeans 5 months after baby, but this time I'm not even close! I don't know if it is because I am getting older or the fact that I had my first four naturally and had to have a C-section with little T. Either way, I don't necessarily care about losing the weight, but I do want to tighten up. I have been feeling super weak lately and need some motivation to get active again. How do you guys fit working out into your busy schedules? Would love to hear some advice!

Thanks so much for reading!

~ Rose

Outfit Details:

Sweater Kohls Similar Style // LOFT Denim Leggings // Vera Bradley Diaper Backpack // Carlos Santana Ankle Boots // LOFT Necklace (Very Similar)

* Shop more lace hem tops and statement necklaces at the end of this post!

Shop the Look:

Spring Tassels

2017-03-28T09:59:00.001-07:00

So excited spring is finally here in the midwest! When it comes to spring, I usually gravitate towards bright white, pastels and florals. I love this multi colored tassel necklace from Target. It pairs with a variety of colors, denim and white! I wore it last spring here and can't wait to wear it with this skirt and this yellow dress. I linked some other affordable white dresses/tunics and tassel necklaces at the end of this post.

We are dog sitting for my sister in law for the next couple of weeks because we wanted to get an idea if we could handle adding a dog into our crazy household. To be honest, I hardly notice he is here. My 7 year old walks him all the time and the kids are on top of it when it comes to his food bowl. I'm sure a puppy would be so much more work, but the kids would totally love it! What kind of dogs do you guys have? What breeds are family friendly?

Thanks so much for reading!

Outfit Details:

SheIn Tunic // LOFT Denim Leggings // Carlos Santana Ankle Boots //

Target Tassel Necklace (Similar) // Ann Taylor Handbag

Pinstriped Vest

2017-03-15T09:11:00.003-07:00

Outfit Details:

I know I am always talking about "nursing friendly" clothing, but since I ecologically breastfeed it is something I have had to think about a lot since I started having children. With my first couple of babies, I bought into a lot of the nursing wear that retailers sold, but I never really liked how these items looked, fit, held up and, most importantly, I was disappointed in the ease of nursing when wearing "nursing clothes". A lot of the openings are too small, the material bunches underneath or gets too stretched out. I have found it is a lot easier and more cost effective to buy cotton tees and layer with interesting jackets, cardigans, vests and scarves. Then you can easily lift up your tee, throw on a nursing cover and still have extra coverage from the vest, jacket or scarf. I have also found dresses with side zips, camisole straps, or V backs and easy to nurse in, because you can easily slide out an arm- again you would just need a cardigan or jacket. I hope someone out there finds this helpful!

I love this pinstriped vest I purchased from Banana Republic. It is a lot different than any other item in my closet because it menswear inspired, but I have found it to be a pretty versatile layer!

Anyway, thanks so much for reading! And feel free to contact me if you have any questions in regards to nursing clothes. I am definitely don't consider myself an expert in fashion, but I have learned a lot about what to wear when you have little babies and kids.

~ Rose

Outfit Details:

Banana Republic Vest, Similar// Sweater // LOFT Jeans // Ann Taylor Necklace // Carlos Santana //

Vera Bradley Diaper Backpack

Leather & Leopard

2017-03-10T01:00:00.000-08:00

So after a couple of weeks dealing with a mild respiratory flu (that went through all the kids), we have been hitting some pretty big milestones! My two and a half year old, Ellie, basically potty trained herself and my 4 month old has started to let me put him down during his naps! I didn't realize how sore my back and neck were until I had a break from carrying him or wearing him ALL day. I still get kind of sad when I have to put him down because I really do love holding him, but obviously it is a necessity at this point! Just bittersweet when the kids go through each stage so quickly.

I purchased this dress from Pink Blush as well. It's actually great for nursing with a pair of thick leggings and the material is flowy so it's not clingy on your post baby body! It work great for maternity too!

Outfit Details:

Pink Blush Mock Neck Dress, Similar // Jacket // Leopard Print Scarf

Winter Dress

2017-03-08T07:51:00.001-08:00

These wrap dresses from Pink Blush are perfect for all stages of pregnancy and nursing (or neither). The dress pulls down easy for nursing, but still retains its shape. The wrap style is super flattering on every figure. I layered a lightweight gray sweater over this dress for some added warmth and I can now wear this dress throughout the winter as well. I love it!

~ Rose

Outfit Details:

LOFT Sweater // LOFT Necklace // Pink Blush Dress (Similar Color, but short sleeve), Similar // Carlos Santana Ankle Boots

**Linking up with Fizz & Frosting, Pink Sole, I Do DeClaire, Red Closet Diaries, Pocketful of Polkadots, Living In Color Style, J Petite, Jeans & A Tea Cup, Two Peas In A Blog, Curly Crafty Mom, Garay Treasures, Posh Classy Mom

Nursing Cover

2017-03-07T13:13:00.001-08:00

This multi-use cover was gifted to me from the Blissful Trenders and I use it all the time as a nursing cover. I just throw it on over a nursing tank and it is a stylish and practical top while being easily accessible for nursing, It is great because it also covers your back when feeding your little one. It can also be worn as a one shoulder top, infinity scarf, swaddling blanket and car seat cover. This floral print is so pretty, but they have some other unique prints as well.

On another note, two weeks ago, we, along with my parents, woke the kids up at 3am one morning and surprised them with a trip to Disney World! It was a lot of fun, but a lot of work with an infant and a toddler (especially the toddler)! Would anyone be interested in hearing any tips on navigating Disney? I feel like we learned a lot and made many mistakes the first couple of days, then we started to figure out the best way to plan our day by the end of the trip. I typically do not like to plan when I travel so we can have a little flexibility, but I think it would have been prudent to make dinner reservations and reserve certain fast passes far in advance. Let me know if you are interested in hearing more and I can elaborate!

Lastly, we have some great deals this month with NYR Organics. We are offering a FREE Organic Greens Complex when you purchase our Organic Cocoa Complex or Organic Berry Complex for half off! So you can essentially receive 4 packets for under $30! Also, our award winning Beauty Sleep Concentrate is 25% off from March 6-13! This product is designed to work in accordance with our sleep rhythms to ensure a good night's rest and rejuvenated skin. All of our products are created with essential oils, plants and herbs and do not contain any harmful parabens, synthetic dyes or fragrances, petroleum or mineral oils or other toxic ingredients. Email me if you have any questions! Shipping is on me this month!

Thanks for reading!

~ Rose

Outfit Details:

LOFT Denim Leggings // Blissful Trenders Nursing Cover c/o // Hunter Boots //

Dooney & Burke Crossbody // Target Necklace, Similar Style

Winter Shades

2017-02-16T01:00:00.000-08:00

I'm always draws to grays and neutrals during the drab winter months, so I added a purple cardigan and floral scarf to an otherwise muted outfit for a pop of color. This dress is actually a maternity dress and to be honest, I think it will still fit when/if I lose the rest of the baby weight. So I think I will be getting a lot more out of it than I intended.

Also, as you know, I am a consultant for NYR Organics and we have extended our Joining Special of $80 to the end of the month, so check it out! Not only, do I love our skin and body care lines, but also I love our vitamins, supplements and essential oils. I am feeling a little tickle in the back of my throat so I am diffusing our CLEANSE blend and Chamomile right now. What are your favorite oils to diffuse?

Thanks for reading!

~Rose

Outfit Details:

Dress Similar // Cardigan Target // LOFT Scarf, Similar // Necklace Similar //

Diaper Bag (Gift) Similar // Steve Madden Boots