q & a // 20 facts about me

 

 

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I thought it would be fun to do a little "get to know me" post since I haven't really done one since I started this little blog. Here we go!

 

 

 Question 1 // How tall are you?

 

:: 5 feet 5 inches

 

Question 2 // Do you have a hidden talent? If so, what?

 

:: I have a mean jumpshot & I will beat you in a game of horse

 

Question 3 // What’s your biggest blog-related pet peeve?

 

:: having to sign in to comment, especially on WordPress...frustrating to jump through hoops to tell ya how awesome your post was 

 

Question 4 // What’s your biggest non-blog related pet peeve?

 

:: bad drivers; people who drive slow in the left lane, people who don't give "the wave" when you let them over, when it's down to one lane & someone speeds to the front & sneaks in (I have a slight case of road rage)

 

Question 5 // What’s your favorite song?

 

:: Three Little Birds - Bob Marley, Fat Bottomed Girls - Queen, Friends in Low Places - Garth Brooks

 

Question 6 // What’s your favorite Etsy shop that isn’t yours?

 

:: Glam Lamb Creations - her prints are gorgeous

 

Question 7 // What’s your favorite way to spend your free time when you’re alone?

 

:: catching up on my DVR, purusing through Target or Hobby Lobby

 

Question 8 // What’s your favorite junk food?

 

:: french fries & chocolate

 

Question 9 // Do you have a pet or pets? If so, what kind and what are their names?

 

:: Buster Brown, Jack Russell Terrier ...he's the family pet & lives with my mom

 

Question 10 // What are your number one favorite nonfiction and fiction books?

 

:: fiction - Pride & Prejudice , The Great Gatsby

:: nonfiction - Work, Pray, Love by Diane Paddison (great for professional Christian women)

 

Question 11 //  What’s your favorite beauty product?

 

:: Estee Lauder Double Wear foundation, MAC brow pencil, Le Volume de Chanel mascara

 

Question 12 //  When were you last embarrassed? What happened?

 

:: uhh, really can't remember but I hate to be embarrassed 

 

Question 13 //  If you could only drink one beverage (besides water) for the rest of your life, what would it be?

 

:: coffee; dark + bold with a splash of vanilla caramel creamer

 

Question 14 //  What’s your favorite movie?

 

:: Pride & Prejudice, The Great Gatsby, Wedding Crashers, Labyrinth

 

Question 15 // What were you in high school: prom queen, nerd, cheerleader, jock, valedictorian, band geek, loner, artist, prep?

 

:: Probably a jock, was voted "social butterfly" my senior year

 

Question 16 // If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live?

 

:: Not that I've ever been but I dream of Paris

 

Question 17 // PC or Mac?

 

:: Never owned a Mac laptop, so I can't really compare

 

Question 18 // Last romantic gesture from a crush, date, boyfriend, spouse?

 

:: I'm single as a dollar bill...but when a stranger tells me I'm pretty

 

Question 19 // Favorite celebrity?

 

:: Rihanna, duh

 

Question 20 // What blogger do you secretly want to be best friends with?

 

:: Estee from Essie Button


If you answer these questions on your blog, let me know! I'd love to read your answers!

 

Birthday reflections // 26 was a journey

 

I love celebrating birthdays...especially my own. Except this year. Can I be real?

26 was just plain hard. I feel like I've finally come out the other side & looking back I'm amazed at not only myself but God. I have a hard time allowing myself to embrace accomplishments. I'm proud that I graduated college in May while working full time in a sales position. I'm proud of my relationship with Christ. I'm proud that I finally started this blog. I'm proud of the woman I am because I fought to become her. 

There were times I would come home from work, jump straight into homework & start balling because I was completely overwhelmed. After graduation I felt lost, as if my life had no real purpose...why am I really here. To say summer 2014 wrecked me is an understatement.

 I've spent a lot of time on my face before Jesus this 26th year of my life. I still get surprised at how truly amazing God is. He always meets me when I need him the most. He's tested my faith more times than I'd like to recall. I've been through some stuff in my lifetime, as we all go through...you realize how strong you are. 26 was a journey, most of it I felt as if I were on an island...just me & God. While I've always had an amazing support system around me, I learned that God's opinion is the only one that matters.

His constant pursuit of my heart is unparallelled; I attempt to wrap my head around that & it blows my mind. Recently I've come across complete strangers who have pointed out my patience & kindness. They've also said something to the effect of "you have something great coming soon". I don't believe in coincidences, everything happens for a reason. I can't help but think this past year has prepared me for what's soon to come. 

I'm thankful for the struggle, without it success wouldn't taste as sweet. Cheers to you pretty girl, you're amazing & I am beyond proud of you & how far you've come...here's to 27!

 

white knuckle, hair raising, stomach churning....goodness

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Have I mentioned that I love Halloween? Oh, only a few times? Scary movies were a thing in our house growing up. From Alfred Hitchcock's The Birds to Ann Rice's Interview with the Vampire, I've enjoyed the adrennaline rush of being scared (in the comfort of my own home, of course).

 

In no particular order, I've compiled a list of my favorite scary movies.

 

 

 

Serpent and the Rainbow // My dad is not a movie guy, can't keep his eyes peeled long enough but this is one of his favorites that quickly became mine. Voodoo turning people in to zombies...oh yeah!

 

Sleepy Hollow // Johnny Depp is ahh-mazing at playing creepy or creeped out characters & throw in Christopher Walken as the headless horseman...winner.

 

Beetlejuice // Classic in so many ways...I heard recently that they are doing a sequel of sorts with the original cast. Yes please!

 

Shutter Island // Leo can do no wrong in my eyes & Martin Scorsese as the director knocks it out of the park. More of a mystery/thriller than sure terror but keeps you guessing until the end.

 

Insidious // I made my brother watch this with me & still clinched the covers...it was that scary. I haven't seen the sequel yet however it's on Netflix, so you know what that means.

 

The Shining // If you haven't seen it, what's wrong with you? No, seriously....rent it & prepare to be freaked out. Jack Nicholson is perfectly terrifying & will have you rethinking a trip to the cabin in the dead of winter.

 

Underworld // I love vampires, more than zombies or werewolves...but not all vampires are created equal. Forget Twlight & twinkly skin...real vampires need only apply. Kate Beckinsale is one my favorite actors and she kicks butt in this series.

 

 

I can't compile a list without the obvious picks; Hocus Pocus, The Addams Family, the original Halloween, A Nightmare on Elm Street, & The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

 

I must've watched A Nightmare on Elm Street as a child because for the longest time I was terrified of Freddy Krueger...like legitmately thought he was going to get me in my dreams lol. I also was teased by older cousins with a Chucky doll, I avoid Chucky movies to this day.

 

 

Did I forget any of your favorite classics? Let me know!

 

 

One more very important thing, our Kansas City Royals are taking the crown tonight in game 7 of the World Series! Good luck boys!

 

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oh hey, friday // 5 recipes to try

Can I just confess that food blogs are probably one of my favorites to read. Cooking alone in my kitchen with some Bob Marley in the background is so relaxing. I know some people are cringing right now. Plus enjoying something you made is pretty satisfying.

I've rounded up some recipes I'm dying to try out, enjoy! 

Crock-Pot Maple Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix

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 Doesn't this scream Fall? YES to everything about this recipe!

One-Pan Cacio E Pepe

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One pan, simple, & cheesy...yep, I'm making you.

Baked Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast

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I've been wanting to try baked french toast for a while, why not throw in pumpkin & cream cheese filling. Get in my belly ret-nah.

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Coffee Syrup

 

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I cannot drink the PSL from Starbucks...wayyy too sweet + it has that weird caramel color #4 in it that supposedly causes cancer. I've perfected my coffee making at home so this would be nice to add to it.

Apple Crisp

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Browned butter seems challenging but I mean, it's just burning butter...can't be that hard, right? Apples, oats, bourbon...yasss. 

So clearly I'll need to be consuming lots of salad to balance out all this sweet goodness, which is fine by me. I have been enjoying kale salads with pecans, dried berry medley, & homemade vinaigrette.  Fall food is da best.

Have an awesome weekend!

Kansas City stand up

 

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I just have to take a few moments to gush about my city. If you're a sports fan I'm sure you watched or heard about the Royals vs. Athletics game last night. I'll be honest, I'm not a baseball fan...however I love this city & I love the underdog. For my entire life, the Royals have been mediocre at best...29 years since the last playoff appearance. But last night they came to win. I love a story that has heart & gumption...intense isn't even the best word to describe the emotion of the game. All of Kansas City is groggy & highly caffeinated this morning.

 

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Can I also remind everyone of the mudstomping the Chiefs put on the New England Patriots Monday night? Oh & we broke the record for loudest stadium, no biggie.

 

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I love sports & I love my city...this is an unforgettable week in Kansas City.

 

 

 

 

 

 

praise break

lake of the Ozarks, summer 2014

 

 

I've had a rough go of it the past month & a half. God has wrecked my heart & my plans for what I thought my future would look like. I'd like to think of myself as a generally happy person but I've strug-gled since this change came about. I've wrestled with God about my future; I'm a bit of a control freak & planner. I was in Target Sautrday literally giving myself a pep talk. I have the most amazing support system around me, seriously these people are my biggest encouragers. But sometimes you have to look in the mirror & say "girl, you are amazing, & strong, & powerful, & a winner....you WILL accomplish what God has put on your heart." I'm a deep thinker & analyze things to death, therefore I have to remind myself to let God & let go.

 

 

"...but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perserverance; perserverance, character; & character, hope." -Romans 5:3-4

 

 

Those two verses sum everything up...even when attacks are being flung my way...I'm still blessed & I'm still safe & God still has me in the palm of his mighty hands.

 

If you're struggling I just want to enocurage you to keep fighting, spiritual warfare is a very real thing. God will never bring you to it without bringing you through it. It's uncomfortable & it hurts...but girlfriend it's so worth it.

 

Chose joy even in the midst of the storm & peace will follow.

 

 

 

 

day 27 // fall wishlist

Buffalo Plaid // I've been on the hunt for awhile, raiding thrift stores is my next mission.

Boots // these would go with anything, sort of a necessity.

V-neck // anyone else have trouble finding one that fits perfectly? I'm going to try these mens Hanes next.

Leopard loafers // staple in any wardrobe, I have a pair but need a little bit of an upgrade.

Rebecca Minkoff bag // wanted one for awhile, I love the structure of this one + it's not the mini MAC everyone & their mother own.

Le Volume de Chanel // my secret weapon, seriously. I've been trying to use up samples of other mascaras before I repurchase. This mascara will change your life. Trust me. 

Anything in particular you're craving for Fall?

 

the circle // fall favorites

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I love any & everything Fall...#sorrynotsorry for all related posts.

1// Favorite Fall fashion/clothing item? 

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Last Spring I was on the hunt for those Steve Madden booties, I found them on super sale...although they're a little harder to find now. But I l-o-v-e them. Timbs...I've had the same pair since high school. Not everyone's cup of tea...which makes me love wearing them even more. I don't own the last pair of Steve Madden's but I want, I need! Boots are so Fall!

2// Favorite Fall drink? 

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 Once the air gets chillier, I crave chai tea latte's. They're spicy & warm...pretty much perfect!

3// Fall bucket list?

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I've never been to the Liberty corn maze & think it'd be so fun! Making a wreath is also on my to-do list. Hocus Pocus is a classic, duh. 

 4// Favorite Fall recipe?

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Hands down, pumpkin bread. Reminds me of my childhood and the smell of it baking feels like home. 

5// Favorite Fall scent?

Mahogany Teakwood is an all-year fav but especially during Fall, smells like the perfect man. Leaves is crisp & an apple scent that isn't too sweet. 

6// Favorite Fall holiday?

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It's no secret, I'm obsessed with Halloween. Scary movies, candy, carving pumpkins...I love it all. My dad's girlfriend & I decided to have a little get together this year...make fun themed food, watch movies, & hand out candy. Uber excited! 

 What are your Fall favorites?

Linking up with The Circle this month!

day 22 // blogs i love

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I love stumbling across a blog I truly connect with. I have to admit I'm quite picky when it comes to blogs I read everyday. I prefer a clean aesthetic & a writer I relate to. Without further ado, here are a few blogs I adore...

Meg Fee // No clue how I found her blog, but man am I glad I did. Rarely do I discover a blog whose writing sucks me in. Her writing is eloquent & real; she's so raw & I appreciate that. I love how she speaks about singledom, wanting versus needing a man. I want to high five her & then hug her. 

Sincerely Jules // Oh Jules...she's my style crush. She wears dresses with sneakers, a girl after my own heart. She's chic but not stuffy. She's always traveling...absolutely jealous of her instagram photos.

Makeup & Beauty Blog // Karen reviews high end as well as drug store makeup, skin care, & hair products. I respect that she gives her honest opinion about products. She posts multiple reviews a day, always leaving me wanting more. I swear I could read makeup blogs all day & not get bored.

Pinch of Yum // Pretty sure this was one of the first blogs I started checking in on often. I've made several of Lindsay's recipe's & girlfriend never disappoints. Savory + sweet, this food blog offers everything your heart desires. 

Bijou & Boheme // Christine Dovey is an amazeballs interior designer. I l-o-v-e her design style & she even gives sneaks peeks on projects she's currently working on. If you're needing design inspiration, check her out!

What are your favorite blogs? I'd love to check them out!

 

 

day 21 // autumn

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For as long as I can remember, I've had a love affair with autumn. Living in the mid-west we get to fully experience all four seasons, autumn being the last hoo-rah. Summer's having a hard time letting go this year, chilly in the morning & blazing by afternoon. But again, that's the mid-west for ya. Growing up I remember my mom jazzing the house up once September hit, Halloween was a major deal, & my birthday in November...autumn holds precious nostalgia for me. 

Favorites:

chill in the air//spicy smells//boots//army jackets//pumpkin bread//leaves crunching//start of Jayhawk basketball//Halloween//soup//my birthday//rich colors//sweatshirts//Thanksgiving//chai tea latte//fur vest//scary movies//festivals//finally able to wear my hair down//family time//green bean casserole//dark lipstick//crisp air

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What's your biggest anticipation for autumn?

 

day 15 // mood board

1 / 2 / 3 / 4*/ 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9

1. I'm a total fan girl for Rih Rih; & she killed this editorial for W Magazine.
2. Normally I'm not draw to this aesthetic but c'mon this kitchen is beautiful.
3. If you're not reading Atlantic-Pacific, stop & go now. Seriously. I love the side braid + dress + sneakers combo. 
4. This screams 90's Vogue & I'm fully embracing the 90's comeback.
5.  Art deco has been calling my name lately.
6. Needs to go on my gallery wall asap.
7. Who doesn't love + feel inspired by full spidery lashes.
8. Black polish = fall. nuff said. 
9. Self explanatory, you attract what you are. 

*Joan Smalls for Paris Vogue, June/July 2013
Photographer: Mario Sorrenti

Happy Monday, I hope your weekend was relaxing & stress-free! Kick butt this week!

day 11 // inspiration

 

 

 Inspiration is a funny thing; I need it daily. I've made some decisions lately that have rocked my world. What I once thought my future looked like is an entirely different picture now. An amazingly different picture. It's scary & new & unknown. It keeps me awake at night & gets me out of bed in the morning. 

I've had a tumblr for a few years, my personal inspiration board. It's better than pinterest or instagram, it's raw & intimate. This quote was plucked straight from my brain, it's the exact season I'm in. Isn't that what we look for when we need inspiration...to know others feel how we do & they've made it to the other side. 

 Yesterday I mentioned Myleik Teele. When I'm feeling discouraged or throwing myself a pitty party I always check out her instagram or podcasts. Let me tell you, she keeps it real which is why I appreciate her advice. She started & runs a successful company. She's a strong, powerful, independent woman. She's my "mentor from a distance" as she likes to call it.

Inspiration comes from.... people I relate to, words that hit me to my core, people I admire, people who are in a position I'd like to be in, my dad & his life lessons, daily devotionals, sunny days, sunday morning church, my past, my future, fabric swatches, music.

Currently inspired by:

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**Vogue Japan, October 2014
Photographer: Boo George

What's inspiring you lately?

 

day 10 // self love

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When I looked over the writing prompts for Blog-tember , this in particular excited me. We're slammed daily with negativity...you're too fat, your teeth are crooked, you still haven't finished college yet. I can't express enough how important self love truly is. I was listening to a podcast last night from a woman I admire, Myleik Teele (more on her tomorrow). She attended Oprah's The Life You Want tour where Iyanla Vanzant spoke. Iyanla recalled when she was a young girl her brother kept calling her ugly. One day she decided she was beautiful. That's it. Your opinion of yourself is all that really matters.

10 things I love about myself:

1. green eyes + long lashes

2.  gut instinct - it's taken some time to learn to listen but I more than appreciate it now

3. curly hair - recently embraced my crazy curls...makes me feel sexy

4. ambition - can't stop//won't stop

5. curvy physique - the older I get, the more I love & enjoy my body for being strong

6. my walk with Christ - he gets all the glory for the woman I've become

7. passion - for my family, my calling, inspiring others

8. resilience - this girl refuses to stay knocked down

9. confidence - if I want it, it's mine

10. my hands - they're soft, petite, pretty, painted

Just in case no one's told you lately; you're beautiful, you're valued, & you matter. Shine on pretties!

day 8 // music to my hears

Happy Monday! I'm loving this Kansas City weather...bring on autumn!

Circa '92//5th birthday

Excuse the poor photo quality but this is one of my favorite pictures of my childhood. Somehow I was convinced to put on a concert for my 5th birthday, complete with homemade cowgirl ensemble. I preformed Achy Breaky Heart by Billy Ray Cyrus with a wooden spoon (we were fancy back in the day). Video proof of this hilarity also exists. Thanks mom & dad for priceless memories lol. 

Needless to say music has always been a huge part of my life. I remember my mom playing country music as well as strong female influences like TLC & En Vogue. My dad introduced me to classic rock...Aerosmith, Queen, Tom Petty & my most favorite; Bob Marley. I remember burning Legend: The Best of Bob Marley & the Wailers my junior year of high school & introducing classmates to one of the greatest albums of all time. 

I appreciate all genres but I feel like an old soul, they just don't make music today like they used to. I've put together a spotify playlist of some of my all-time favorite songs. I hope you enjoy!

  

What are some of your can't-live-without songs?