Forever 29

Moving on.

2013-01-15T10:05:00.000-05:00

I've spent the last two weeks trying to find exactly what I want to say in this post. But rather than torture myself any longer I'm just sitting down and knocking it out.

While there are many sides to my decision to stop writing here it can really be summed up as this- I've outgrown this space.

Forever 29 was a great notion when I actually was 29. Staring down 31 in a few months I shake my head a little bit at that silly girl. I have learned so many things. To think of being that naive forever scares me.

Blogging in the mainstream blogging world just isn't for me anymore. It preys on some of my biggest insecurities. It has become a whole different animal than what I really long for when I write.

So I am moving on. And rather than crawling back a few weeks or months from now I've already set up a new home for myself on the internet. You will find my heart there.

https://amyevolving.wordpress.com/
Instagram: amyevolving
Twitter: @amyevolving

I can't leave without saying a truly heartfelt "thank you" those of you that have encouraged me along the way. Friends that became readers. Readers that became friends. You helped me brainstorm, let me vent and supported me in ways that I won't forget.

What to Wear Where- A New Year, A New Start

2013-01-01T09:54:00.000-05:00

I love January 1st.

I know it is just a day, but I always enjoy the the implied new start.

2013 is going to be a year of simplicity for me. Cutting out the excess. Working with what I have. And knowing that what I have is more than enough.

You might be thinking "who is this girl and what did she do with Amy?" But I've gained a lot of perspective recently and it's time for me to make some changes.

So this year there will be more glasses days. More wearing things again and again, like this sequin tank that I purchased in a definite "what to wear?!?" moment. Less buying something new for every occasion.

As for What to Wear Where the future is uncertain. My time writing at Forever 29 will be ending soon and I hope to update y'all on that as soon as I can get my thoughts together.

It's been a great ride. I'm choosing a new path and wish you all the best in 2013 as you walk, skip, hop and run along yours!

Merry Christmas and What to Wear Where Update

2012-12-23T16:04:00.002-05:00

Were you wondering how those family pictures turned out? This is the best one and I love it! As for the rest? Well, they showed how crazy life can be with two little boys. I'm glad I changed up the boys outfits to include a bit of red.

I'm not sure if I will post again before 1/1/13, so please join me that day and link up for What to Wear Where- Outfits for a fresh start. I plan to post some of my wardrobe plans for the year and an outfit that always works for me.

I hope you all have a very happy Christmas celebrating with family and friends!

What to Wear Where- Christmas Eve

2012-12-18T06:46:00.000-05:00

Don't let me scare you, but there is only one week until Christmas!

We have been enjoying our many Christmas traditions over the past month-putting up decorations, driving around to look at Christmas lights, watching movies and the daily hunt to find "elf."

And though our church is small by current standards, we enjoy many Christmas traditions together- a cookie swap, craft night for the kids, Advent devotionals written by members, Christmas music worship and finally a Christmas Eve service.

Christmas Eve by forever29blog featuring old navy

Old Navy / Chinese Laundry high heel shoes / Shine shoes / Xhilaration® Junior's Pajama Set - White

Nate is already beginning to grasp the true meaning of Christmas and attending church on Christmas Eve is one way we can reinforce why our family celebrates Christmas.

And after the service we will come home and change into our new Christmas pajamas! The boys will hopefully go to bed easily and mommy & daddy elf will get to work!

I hope you will link up your Christmas Eve outfit (even if it is pajamas!) and share one of your family's holiday traditions.

I wish you all a very happy Christmas and W2WW will be back on 1/1/13! Bring your outfits for a fresh start and a new year!

When You Can't Fix It

2012-12-17T16:47:00.000-05:00

In the wake of the Newtown tragedy and similar scenarios that have no clear cut solution I often feel frustrated. The frustration of having to acknowledge that such evil resides in this world is overwhelming, but ultimately the most frustrating fact is that what's done is done. Too many lives lost and innocence stolen from so many more.

And so what can I do? There's nothing I can donate; nothing that can rebuild that community.

I recently read that there is one thing that individuals affected by any type of tragedy say others can do to help them.

You can be grateful for what you have.

I can be grateful for what I have.

I can be grateful that my children are safe and healthy.
I can be grateful that I have a home and a car and countless things that I don't even need.
I can be grateful that I have wonderful relationships.
I can be grateful for each new day.

I had already purchased this journal for me

and one of these planners for each of the boys

Prior to Friday's events I had already made it a goal for next year to start journaling. To daily list things I am grateful for and to jot down notes to the boys in their own books. Notes about adorable things they did and fun times we had together. And because I'm honest I'm sure a few frustrating mom moments will find their way in there too.

I pray that these books will be for them when I am gone, but I realize far too often it is the other way around.

Motherhood Lately.

2012-12-11T15:41:00.000-05:00

Tis the season...to be overwhelmed, right?

I know a whole week off of blogging may not seem like much to the five of you that are reading, but for me it's when it starts to feel like a little piece of me is missing. And then of course I'm not really even sure what I want to write.

Reading When Did I Get Like This? (What's that? Reading? Gasp, I know...getting a head start on one of my 2013 goals.) has been consuming most of my free time. Then I read this article this morning about the sense of purpose related to blogging. It really helped me see that I should just run with my ideas. Those When Did I Get Like This ideas I scribble down while Nate is eating breakfast and then type out as he has "rest time" ever so loudly above my head now.

So today my purpose is to keep it real and share a few of the snipits of my life that has been keeping me so very busy.

Motherhood lately is

-wrapping a book for the class book exchange at 7am on the basement floor in your bathrobe because you don't want to be the mom that forgets to send in by the day it is due.

-attempting a "crafty" Christmas activity only to put two frosting covered boys in the bathtub 10 minutes later.

-waking up at 3:30am in a panic because you remember that the elf (yes, that one) is in Nate's room and I had to figure out how to get it out.

-trying to forget that next week my baby boy turns two.

-being baffled that I am having full-on conversations with that same baby boy. His favorite thing is to inform me that "It's broken. Needs batteries." every time something is not working.

-Nate refusing to wear the cute appliqued Christmas shirt I got him because the first time I asked I acted sad when he said no and now he thinks it's funny.

-successfully hiding that the reason we went to church on Sunday night was for Mommy to swap cookies. AND I smuggled cookies back in the house without detection.

-being asked "Why you keep fighting with me?" on a particular afternoon when some correction was much needed.

-giving in to a Christmas request for Pop the Pig- a disgusting game which I hope is quickly forgotten after it arrives.

-deciding how to wean the boys off "chocolate bunny," possibly the worst impulse purchase to date. It's crack I tell you!

-putting an inflatable Christmas monkey and bear in your front yard because the boys adore them.

What to Wear Where- Christmas Parties!

2012-12-04T07:22:00.000-05:00

We are barely into December and the holiday party season is already in full swing!

I don't have any dressy parties on my calendar this year, but I couldn't resist putting this look together with some new finds. This is a good example of using accessories to transform an old, standby outfit.

The black and gold combo is a departure from my typical colorful choices, but I did feel very sophisticated.

And these accessories did not break the bank- necklace, belt and gold dot tights were less than $40 total.

Dress- Calvin Klein via TJ Maxx, old (similar)/Necklace- Forever 21 (I like this one too)/Belt- Stein Mart (glittery belt!)/Tights-Merona (exact)/Heels- Nine West, old (updated version)/Bag- Deux Lux via TJ Maxx (I can dream about this one...)

Time to link up and show off what you're going to wear to one of your holiday celebrations! Snap some pictures or make a Polyvore board...and remember I'll pin one of your fabulously styled pics to the What to Wear Where Pinterest board!

I'd love to have you (and more of y'all) link up on 12/18 with your Christmas Eve look (even if it's pajamas!) and hope you will share a bit about one of your family's holiday traditions.

Rewinding to Craftier Times

2012-12-03T06:38:00.002-05:00

I haven't had the crafting bug lately, but I know many of y'all are new to my little corner of the internet so I thought I would re-share two of my favorite holiday crafts!

Salt Dough Ornaments

I made these ornaments for Cole's polar bear first birthday party last year. They were soooo easy and you can make them in any theme and get much more artistic with your painting if it suits you! Get all of the details here!

Peppermint Bath Salts

These easy-to-make bath salts are an excellent hostess gift. Hang onto this recipe as it can be adapted with any scented oil for other occasions. Y'all can find the directions here.

And as for my crafting, I think I'll stick to cookies for this year!

Five Unusual Yet Useful Christmas Gifts!

2012-11-30T16:16:00.000-05:00

There are a few approaches you can take when buying gifts.

You can purchase things that the recipients would never buy for themselves. That's probably the most exciting way to shop.

But I really love when I realize a useful item was gifted to me by someone special. If it's something I use a lot I will be reminded of that person, even if I don't see them often.

Here's my list of 5 useful gifts that I have both given and received (plus a few extra/runner up ideas!)

For the men/husbands:

Wurkin Stiffs Power Stays- $40

Mr. Banker swears by these metal collar stays. They come with magnets to keep the collar in place when wearing a shirt without a tie. Over the year a pair or two is always misplaced so these are always on his list. Pair with a new shirt and you're done!

Runners up:

Sonos Wireless Sound System (for the big spenders) or whiskey stones (for the drinkers)

For the women/wives:

Warmrails Towel Warmer -$65

First let me say you should not gift this by itself. For your wife I would pair with a spa gift certificate or for a friend or family member pair with a monogrammed towel or robe (keep reading for those!) BUT this towel warmer brings a little bit of luxury into an otherwise boring routine. I'll never be without one again!

Runners up:

"Useful" is a loose term when it comes to buying for a wife or girlfriend. Purses and blue boxes are ALWAYS useful. Just keep the receipt if she doesn't exactly like your taste. Or get smart and just check her Pinterest.

For the kids:

iTunes Gift Card- any amount

I'm not sure that I know any kids that do not have access to an iPhone or iPad. And wow do they love apps AND know how to find them. Almost daily Nate is showing me a new game that he would like. We keep a running list that we often gift him as rewards, but that can really add up! I think this is a great gift because the parents can help choose what would be most useful for the child, be it a game, e-book, movie or music!

Runners up:

Pajamas (my family keeps my boys well pajama-ed) or anything Melissa & Doug-those toys have never failed me.

For family:

Nice linens, such as Lands End Luxe towels- $59 for 2 sets

We have received these towels as well as a nice set of sheets as gifts. Honestly at first I though, "Oh goody, linens. B-o-r-i-n-g." but what I forgot is that our linen closet is full of items we registered for when we got married. EIGHT years ago. Well I'm sure y'all know that towels don't stay nice and fluffy for eight years and quickly these towels became the ones that Mr. and I would fight over. Sheets and towels- everyone uses them.

Runners up:

Keurig coffee maker, Cuisinart ice cream maker, or a panini press
We have gifted all of these with great success and in the case of the ice cream maker they loved it so much they gifted one to us!

For friends:

Restoration Hardware Robe- from $69

I adore these robes. Mr. has the plush version and I have the hydro-cotton. Until I got mine I used to steal his all the time. I gifted my Bestie one with some spa products or you could include some matching slippers.

Runners up:

anything monogrammed, notepads, cocktail napkins....friends are usually the easiest to buy for!

I hope my ideas have helped fill at least one blank spot on your to-buy list. Do you have any useful gifts to add?

**None of the items listed are sponsored and no affiliate links have been used.**

What to Wear Where- Updates and Other Things You Want to Know

2012-11-27T14:24:00.000-05:00

My apologies that there are no pretty outfits this week, only a few notes updating y'all on how W2WW will continue over the coming weeks, months.....

1) If you read my W2WW partner-in-crime Mrs. Pretty's blog (and you should because it is awesome) you know that she is taking a bit of a break from regular blogging. I am taking over hosting duties so you will find the W2WW link up here and she will be linking up as she can., which I hope is often because girl has some good taste in shoes.

2) Rather than weekly, the link up will be every other week. I'm having a hard time coming up with consistent topics and rather than use all of my/your ideas at once going to an every other week schedule will help stretch out the fun a little bit. As always pass along your ideas via Twitter, Facebook, email, snail mail, pretty blue boxes, et cetera.

3) I had my fab blog designer add a little section over here

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where I will keep the updated schedule. Check there to make sure you are ready for the coming week's topics!

4) A picture from each post that is linked up will be pinned on my What to Wear Where Pinterest board. This is a great way to share the styling prowess of everyone that links up. I continue to be impressed and inspired by the great looks you all share and want others to see them too! I have already added the Thanksgiving pins, so check those out if you missed them!

5) Not W2WW related, but I also added a nifty Instagram button- which is even more useful now that the application is web-based. I hope y'all will follow me there as I tend to share more outfits there than I can manage to blog about here! And more of my boys and their hijinks too.

Questions, suggestions, praise, complaints? Leave 'em all in the comments!

Maintaining My Wardrobe with $100 a Month- November 2012

2012-11-26T07:30:00.000-05:00

I know what you are thinking. There's no way I bought all of this with $100. And you'd be right.

I got the thrifting bug this month and had already decided I would dip into (or spend all of...) December's budget since I will be trying to avoid the shopping crowds next month. Speaking of, did you brave any Black Friday (or Thursday) shopping? Mr. and I went out and spent some cash gifts we received early. I'll recap that trip in December.

Here are the details of my November purchases-

1,2,3- I purchased the Brooks Brothers seersucker suit, Lilly Pulitzer dress and Ann Taylor brocade pants for $5 total during my Junior League's attic sale. The last hour you paid $5 for everything you could fit in a bag. I couldn't believe these deals!
4- NY & Co jeans, thrifted- $5
5- RL Oxford, consignment- $16
6- Gap oxford, thrifted- $5
7- Old Navy Sheep Sweater (no longer online)- $25
8- Vintage blouse, thrifted- $5
9- Zara chunky cardigan (size up)- $50
10- J. Crew City Mini skirts- $17.50 ea/$35
11- Forever 21 necklace- $8
12- Merona animal print blouse- $23
13- Boden dot tee, thrifted- $5
14- Stein Mart belts, 4- $25

Total: $207

The skirts and belts are the purchases that really put me over, but since I didn't find a dress for the holidays I think these will get me through. I am in LOVE with the Zara cardigan and hope to find some ways to wear the vintage blouse. A little out of my comfort zone with that one.

I'm linking up with Franish and her Budgeting Bloggers again this month. Now to delete any other sale emails I see this month!

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What to Wear Where is on a break again tomorrow. I'll be posting with some updates about our schedule and logistics related to the link up and would really love to hear any requests y'all have!

What to Wear Where: Thanksgiving

2012-11-20T07:21:00.000-05:00

Welcome back, What to Wear Where friends!

While Thanksgiving usually revolves a little more around food and family than wardrobes, it's still fun to find something festive to wear for the occasion.

We have had many Thanksgivings just the two of us or with local friends, but this year family is coming to us (and bringing food, yay!) Our family thanksgivings are laid back and I probably won't be accessorized or even wearing shoes.

But really one of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions is the pot luck lunch that our church family shares on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.

Some of the crowd prefers the dessert table

This is what I wore for this year's lunch where I enjoyed two of my favorite Thanksgiving foods- mashed potatoes and dressing. Give me carbs or give me death.

Grace Elements sweater via TJ Maxx (Similar)/Gap silk swing skirt circa 2004 (holla for fitting back into this one!) (cute Anthro option)/Isaac Mizrahi for Target heels

Now grab the button, link up your post below with pictures or Polyvore board of your Thanksgiving outfit and share a bit about one of your Thanksgiving traditions!

Today I am thankful for all of the fashion loving friends I've found here and that y'all have linked up week after week!

Neither Here Nor There

2012-11-14T13:12:00.001-05:00

Lately it seems that life is going fast and slow all at the same time. Anyone else have that happen?

I've been generally unmotivated as far as writing goes, so I started scrolling through some of my old posts. I came across this post on frustration that I very well could have written this week. You know, when I realized that I probably need to pack away the Halloween decorations before my in-laws arrive next Wednesday and then we'll be packing away the rest of the pumpkins and Christmas will be in full swing.

My mental to do list is so long that I'm a little scared to write it down. I'm working on learning that it's not the end of the world if something doesn't happen on my timeline...including blog posts. And lately sleep and other things have been winning out over that.

So for now I'm taking things one day at a time.

I AM looking forward to What to Wear Where- Thanksgiving edition next Tuesday! I hope y'all will come link up and maybe share a little bit about how you celebrate Thanksgiving!

Flashback Friday: Lilly's 80th Birthday

2012-11-09T06:17:00.001-05:00

A year ago I was jetting off to Florida to attend a brunch to celebrate Lilly Pulitzer's 80th birthday!

My trip was definitely one of those carpe diem moments and I'm so glad I had the opportunity to meet Lilly!

I'll be cracking open the new Lilly biography tomorrow in honor of her 81st birthday. I should probably also finally order a print of this photo for my pink office. And maybe pick up a pink cupcake too.

Y'all have a great weekend!

What to Wear Where- On a break

2012-11-06T12:28:00.000-05:00

We are taking a little respite from What to Wear Where. I hope what ever you are wearing today you make it to vote if you haven't already.

Your favorite dress up link up will be back on November 20th to show off our finest Thanksgiving outfits.

If you have any suggestions for future topics please leave a comment or drop me a line forever29blog at gmail dot com.

The Day I Desperately Needed

2012-11-05T14:56:00.001-05:00

I know I have been a little quiet around here. For the moment I have found a great balance of real life vs. online life. I had a rough week followed by a really, really good week, both of which kept me away from the computer.

Last Monday was amazing. One of those days I want to bottle up and hang on to. And since that is part of why I started this blog I want to share it with you. Not to be all braggy, because I realize that I had very little to do with it, just because I want to share the good and the bad with y'all.

We didn't solve any problems of the world. We wore pajamas all day and I doubt I did any housework. But we were happy and enjoyed the day together. And it was wonderful.

Cole was a little sick, so we spend the entire day at home. Normally this does not go well. Actually in the bad, bad week a day at home is what sent me over the edge. I really questioned why it seemed impossible for us to spend a day at home together.

This day the boys woke up happy and in matching jammies. I know these days are fleeting for sure.

They played nicely together. Hallelujah!

We laid together on the floor and watched Sesame Street (with Paul Rudd...win for mommy!)

And they were still happy little boys before bed.

Maybe it took me reaching that low point and let go a little to be able to have this great day. Who knows, but I am thankful for it.

I know I have more hard days ahead.

As Cole approaches 2 I recall all of the struggles of that age. Nate has already thrown me a few curveballs and I think, oh no I have to figure out how to handle this!

But I'm trying to relish the small steps forward. Nate is smart and sweet and doing great at school. Potty training is going better. On most days the boys both nap at the same time! Cole surprises us with funny statements when we don't expect them. They are healthy. And I love them with everything I am.

Maintaining My Wardrobe with $100 a Month- October 2012

2012-11-01T16:44:00.001-04:00

It's November and I survived my first month on my $100 a month clothing budget.

I learned a lot this month. Really, I did.

I set off thinking I needed to spend my cash as soon as possible. But I spent 4 hours shopping and only bought one thing.

See, this budgeting thing has made me extremely picky. Each piece needs to be something I need, fit well and at a good price! I think my plan may work.

I tried on countless things. I ordered and returned a ton of things. Here are the items that made the cut-

Forever 21 Navy Down Vest-$15 (White available)

This was on my wishlist. I had looked at the Lands End vests, but they don't have navy this year, which is the color I really wanted. I didn't really need a vest to serve as a true warming layer, I just like the look. At $15 I was sold.

Ditsy Daisy Boutique Monogram Leather Clutch- $32

Featured in my What to Wear Where: Date Night outfit, I have wanted one of these clutches for a while. When my friend, Hether, started carrying them in her shop I had to get one.

J. Crew Perfect Shirt in Fuschia Gingham- $35 (Current colors)

A gingham shirt was also on my wishlist. I tried on this version at JCP, but the M was too tight and the L was too loose. I finally had a chance to try on this shirt in store (I was hesitant to order online because it was final sale) and decided to go for it.

Kenneth Cole Charcoal Sweater- $18

This was an impulse purchase at Costco. Learning more about fit, I realized that anything with raglan sleeves or angled embelishments at the shoulders help minimize them (the opposite can be said for drop shoulders and puffy sleeves) which I desperately need. A good staple that will layer well, I wore it to jury duty with cords and a scarf this week.

$100. That went fast!

(Confession- I did buy a few things with Mr. when we were back in NC. I figure he picks up the tab on anything purchased on a date. Right?)

For November I'm looking for a chunky cream cardigan and a holiday dress. I have already ordered contenders for both, but we will see. I also want a new pair of jeans, but I think I am going to ask for those for Christmas.

I am linking up a few days late with Franishh, an adorable style blogger that I just came across. She hosts a budget bloggers link up each month. I am excited to scroll through the other participants' posts!

What to Wear Where- Halloween!

2012-10-30T08:21:00.000-04:00

Today's What to Wear Where is coming to you from Jury Duty. Thank you Lord for helping me remember at 5:45am in the shower that I needed to check if I had to report. And here I am. ~~You'll have to link up in the comments today because I can't get to the site with the linky plugin--government wifi (but I am thankful for it!)~~ Updated: I added the linky for any new links and will put the others in!

We are already a week in to our Halloween festivities. Our church, as many do, has a Trunk or Treat night every year. We try our best to get a little creative and for the last 2 years have done family themed outfits.

I know the days of the boys easily agreeing to costumes are numbered. In fact, this is probably the last year for Nate as he already has a Spiderman costume on standby for Halloween night if he chooses.

But while I could, I was able to come up with a family costume with no complaints from any of the boys.

Nate had recently been very interested in the story of the 3 little pigs and the big bad wolf. We took the boys to see a puppet show featuring the story and they also have a cute Melissa & Doug play set they like to play with. Once I mentioned the idea to Nate he was all over it. He insisted that he would be the pig with the straw house, I would be the pig with the stick house and Cole would be the pig with the brick house.

Pig costumes were not easy to find, so I had to get a little crafty. I bought 2 Foofa costumes (from Yo Gabba Gabba) and tucked in the flower neckline. I threw on a pink Lilly lounge jacket & pants...surely the only time me and my boys will be in head to toe pink!

There was a costume parade during the Trunk or Treat and Cole rode in a wagon with his buddy Jack. The ladies that keep the nursery load them in for rides on most Sundays and they all love it!

Now I want to see your costumes! Grab the button above and leave a link to your post in the comments below with your (your kids, dogs, whatever) costume!

I hope it's all treats and no tricks for you this Halloween!

Junior League Spiced Pecans

2012-10-29T08:01:00.000-04:00

I had never owned a Junior League cookbook.

That was until I joined the Junior League of Gwinnett and North Fulton Counties in 2008.

At an introductory meeting for new members I quickly learned that a League's cookbook and the recipes in it are a integral part of the organization. Often a League's most profitable fundraiser, the cookbooks seem to be a legacy in their own right. They are passed from mother to daughter, gifted and collected.

It was easy to identify the favorite recipes of our members after attending a few League events. There is rarely an event without a cookbook tasting! French Quarter Spread, Chocolate Chip Cake and my favorite, Spiced Pecans, are among the many recipes from At Your Service that I enjoy sharing with friends and family.

Nate has his school Fall Festival this week and I always like to take his teachers a little gift. Spiced Pecans in a mason jar with a bit of ribbon and burlap is a quick, easy and tasty treat.

Spiced Pecans
from At Your Service- the cookbook of the Junior League of Gwinnett and North Fulton Counties

Makes 2 cups

1/2 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon cloves
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 egg white
1 tablespoon water
2 cups pecan halves

Mix the sugar, salt, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg in a small bowl. Beat the egg white and water in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form. Add the pecan halves and stir to coat. Add the sugar mixture and stir to coat. Spread evenly on a baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Bake at 250 degrees for 1 1/2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes.

I recommend doubling or tripling the recipe so you will have some to snack on too. There is nothing sadder than Mr. when I make these to take to an event and don't make any extra for him!

Are you a collector of Junior League cookbooks? What is one of your favorite Junior League recipes?

How being a stay at home mom is bad for your self esteem and how blogging can't fix it

2012-10-25T14:34:00.000-04:00

I've been slow to speak on this topic and have had this post in several draft forms. Then this post from my why-can't-we-live-in-the-same-town friend Melissa and this one from Megan, whose posts always leave me wanting to split a bottle of wine with her, inspired me. Both these girls help me feel a little less crazy...something I've been needing a big dose of this week. Here goes my stab at describing my in-the-trenches-of-mommyhood-and-life-frustrations.

After Monday's sunshine and rainbows post it was back to reality for me. As the boys entered their sugar detox, I faced my to do lists and the "woe is me" attitude sank in.

Returning from any trip back home is always an odd mix of why can't we live closer and thank goodness we live far away. Old wounds get opened up and you revisit places that hold great memories and bring you immense joy. It's always a roller coaster for me.

Simmering, as I do, in my feelings is hard in my bubble as a stay at home mom.

Problems seem bigger and successes seem smaller.

I know being at home with the boys is the best thing for our family, but I often feel guilty when I'm not giving them 100% of myself. When I'm caught up in my own emotions.

I think back to how I could regularly sit at my desk job for a hour or two and literally do nothing. I still did a good job, was praised for my work and got paid!

These days I work my butt off. It's exhausting and I often feel like I'm failing. I don't get a paycheck and I've given up a lot of my freedom. Freedom to schedule a dentist appointment whenever I want or go shopping on my lunch break.

But the paycheck and the freedom aren't the things I'm really missing. It's the praise.

There are days when everything is a struggle. From giving Nate the "wrong" bowl (true story) to fighting Cole to not stand up on a chair, my self esteem takes a hit when it feels like I'm doing more things wrong than right. Trying and failing to meet my own expectations can send me over the edge.

I'm realizing that this is a lot of why I started blogging. I needed some feedback. If I didn't share my projects, travels, outfits, recipes and general ramblings with the world, then would they even be valid?

But blogging hasn't been giving me the self esteem boost I need. I haven't met my own expectations here and (in my head) this must mean I am not enough. I alternate between wanting to give up and wanting to charge full steam ahead, determined to figure this whole blogging thing out.

I recently heard a conversation in our Sunday School class. We are discussing parenting topics and a working mom was talking about the guilt she has over missing events at her daughter's preschool. I hurt for her and another mom calmly told her, "I know you hate to miss it, but you are still a good mom." The ladies went back and forth for a minute and the retort every time was, "But you are a good mom. Your daughter knows that and that's all that matters."

I wanted to cry just sitting there, because no matter what your struggle, when your heart is in the right place you are good. You are enough.

So I'm going to keep moving forward.

I am a good mom, even when I don't feel like it. Their smiles and their cries for me tell me that.

I am a good blogger. Because as much as I would like to make a checklist for what makes a good blogger there are no rules here. I'm real. I write what I feel. I show up and I try.

And as I've been blessed to know these two ladies, maybe sharing my story here will help someone else feel like they aren't alone in their feelings.

What to Wear Where- Arts Night Out

2012-10-23T15:08:00.003-04:00

I was very excited when Melissa passed along the notion of Lilly hosting this week's What to Wear Where with a focus on the arts, since museum trips or gallery openings are not common occasions for me.

I started ~~trying to remember~~ thinking about our last evening at The Fox Theatre, which was over three years ago. We have contemplated many times buying season passes to their Broadway series shows, but that's not a realistic endeavor for us right now.

Since I was already in a fantasy state of mind imagining a season full of theatre going, I decided to put together a look full of pieces that are art in their own right.

What to Wear Where- Arts Night Out by forever29blog featuring bow pumps

Lela Rose shimmer dress / Manolo Blahnik bow pumps / Sondra Roberts vintage style handbag / Judith Jack earrings / Gurhan cuff jewelry

Shows like Project Runway give an inside look into the fashion industry and the fact that designers are artists. While I am a bargain hunter and can only dream of the budget to afford any of the pieces I've featured above, I do have a great respect for the work that goes into creating these items. (But if I could find whoever started the half tuck or the high/low hem I would give them an earful...)

I'm a literal girl too, which is why I find myself drawn to Lilly Pulitzer prints. I adore how they tell the stories of the prints on their blog and that they are easy for me to incorporate into my mommy wardrobe (Lilly did design them to hide stains in the first place!)

Now it's your turn! Head on over to Lilly's blog to link up your own artsy outfit.

Come back here next week, Tuesday October 30th for Halloween a day early! I'll be sharing our cheesy family themed costumes, but bring your costumes of all kinds for those that some last minute inspiration. Also feel free to link up later in the week to show off your costume or your little ghouls & goblins.

Back To Where It All Began

2012-10-22T07:20:00.001-04:00

On October 17, 1998 Mr. Banker and I had our first date. That would be 14 years ago if you're counting. Oy.

It was a group date to a haunted house that I put together so I could ~~force~~ ask him to come with me. Well, it worked and we've been together ever since.

The following weekend we went on our first solo date to the North Carolina State Fair. I'm sure I proved that day that I'm not one of those girls that doesn't eat on a date, but he didn't seem to mind. Needless to say, the fair is a special place for us (and nearly 1 million others that attended the fair this year.)

We thought this would be the perfect year to take Nate for his first trip to the fair.

It was a really great day. Mr.'s cousin was showing her sheep (yes, sheep) so we also got to see some extended family members and they were a huge help with Nate!

If you ask Nate what his favorite part of the fair was he will say he has two- 1. The scary elephant ride and 2. Eating ice cream.

The rides proved to be a little too much for him just yet. We ended on a happy note with a very tame car ride, yet he still says the scary ride was his favorite.

And hard as we tried to get him to eat some good fair food he somehow ended up eating Chick fil a and ice cream. But he loved that ice cream cone and that's all that matters to me.

A few more years and we'll be able to introduce Cole to the fair as well, which may just be too much for my heart to handle.

What places have you introduced to your child(ren) that is special to you?

What to Wear Where: Date Night!

2012-10-16T06:51:00.000-04:00

Oh, date nights. If I hadn't already read Melissa's post this morning I probably would have started out with a similar commentary on wishful thinking about maintaining date nights after having kids.

We don't have any family nearby, so if we want to have a date night we have to pay up. In a recent discussion with friends about babysitting rates I came to one conclusion....I need to find cheaper babysitters!

Maybe we are just homebodies, but a handful of nice dates out a year seems to work for us. Aside from that it's date nights in the dining room and movies in the basement. I know this will change over time as the boys won't always be in bed by 7:30, but it works for now.

A few weeks ago while I was trying to decide if I could work these pink pants into my wardrobe I happened upon this combination and thought it would be a perfect date night ensemble.

Paired with one of my purchases from this month and the look is complete.

Charter Club Black Lace Top (consignment. I like this tiered version or this one with sleeves)/Merona Pink Cuffed Capris (on clearance online!)/Gold Wedges (splurge option)/Ditsy Daisy Boutique Monogrammed Leather Clutch/Target Watch/Forever 21 Bracelet (only silver online) & Necklace

Now it's your turn to link up your own date night look at I Pick Pretty. We'll have the next few weeks' topics posted soon and as always would love to hear any ideas that you may have!

Best Pumpkin Products

2012-10-15T15:19:00.000-04:00

October is one of my favorite months because it's one big excuse for pumpkin everything. And as much as I love to whip up a delicious-yet-horrible-for-you-pumpkin-dessert-that-could-feed-fifteen-people sometimes it's better to just grab some of the wonderful pre-packaged pumpkin products that are available to curb the pumpkin cravings.

Today I'd like to share some of the best pumpkin products in my unsolicited non-expert, expert opinion. You're welcome.

Slatkin & Co. Pumpkin Caramel Latte candle- After regretting my Walmart candle purchase I grabbed this replacement candle when they went on sale last week. (Note- no longer online so check your local Bath & Body Works!) This scent is a new favorite.

Kraft Pumpkin Spiced Mallows- Just yum. Cole is a big fan of these little pumpkin treats. I used them to make rice krispie treats, but they were just okay. I want to throw a few in hot chocolate and see how that tastes.

Coffeemate Sugar Free Pumpkin Spice Creamer- I must have been feeling healthy that day and grabbed the sugar free, but it is still delicious. I've used it every morning!

Great Value Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese- I haven't been able to find the Philadelphia version, so I gave this Walmart store brand a try and it is tasty. Not to sweet and just enough spice.

Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Via- This was the first time I have tried the via packs and while it does not compare to a fresh brewed Starbucks drink I think it has saved me some money (the pack of 6 was $7.49 at Target.) It tastes more like warm pumpkin milk, but a caffeine boost in the afternoon is always welcome.

Two no go items on the pumpkin spice train--

Pepperidge Farm Pumpkin Cheesecake cookies--Too sweet. Not enough spice.

and Pumpkin Spice Kisses--Just yuck. Tasted like pumpkin spice wax.

Are there other pumpkin products you have to recommend?

Lessons Learned This Week

2012-10-11T15:37:00.000-04:00

I've learned a few things this week-

I can spend two hours picking out two blouses online and neither will fit.
My body is not made for blouses. Anyone out there with larger shoulders/chest have any tips or shops you love?

I can pin something to my Pinterest Needs board

Source: gap.com via Amy on Pinterest

and then the item will promptly vanish, as if it was never there. It's not even cold yet! Where did this perfect chunky cardi go, Gap?

I can whine and complain but it's not going to keep Mr.'s boss from needing to call two hour unscheduled meetings at 5pm.

We can have an amazing family outing where no one cries

If you weave your bacon it will make delicious bacon patties perfect for a BLT.

I may have made 3 this week.

Cheap Walmart candles are not worth the glass they are poured in.
And you might leave it burning when you leave to go pick up your kid because it doesn't even put out enough smell to remind you that it's on fire. Slatkin & Co. all the way.

The dog will not eat any dog food as long as there are leftovers from the boys. Cole will also dump all of the dog food into the water bowl at any opportunity.

Baby soccer uniforms are one of the cutest things I've ever seen.

I have some really awesome people in my life that get me. I get to chat with a few at church on Wednesdays. Others I can text or email. I've known some for what seems like forever and others I've never even met. However we communicate, y'all know who you are and I appreciate your listening to my ramblings!