tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32594061121806587882024-03-13T21:19:13.479-05:00Lexi and ButtonGracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.comBlogger72125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-21102659999115871702012-11-25T22:39:00.001-06:002012-11-25T22:39:19.798-06:00Announcement!Hey guys, guess what? I've decided to take up a new blog project, this time focusing a little bit more on my family and life, with a little peppering of fashion thrown in as well (of course!). Feel free to head on over if you're interested! The new site is called <a href="http://livingwithaholts.blogspot.com/">Living with "A-Holts."</a> (http://livingwithaholts.blogspot.com/) Enjoy! Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-83967376556880926262012-04-01T19:53:00.000-05:002012-04-01T19:53:32.977-05:00So Long For Now...Well, friends, I have a confession. As I mentioned in my last post, I've been wrestling a lot with what direction I wanted this little blog to go. I've considered many options, and haven't actually been able to come to a conclusion. I've wrestled with what my online persona should portray, and whether I was going to be a "mommy blogger," "socially conscious blogger," or "fashion blogger." As I've had more people reading my thoughts and looking at my photos, I've found myself questioning my choices, both in words and outfits. I've been trying to create a niche for myself, trying to establish a label for myself, so potential readers can track down my site. I've been trying to create a blogging personality so I can attract attention to my posts. I've commented, twitter-ed, and facebook-ed to create more blog traffic.<br />
<br />
I've been taking this blog way too seriously.<br />
<br />
This is why I'm making the decision to stop blogging. This could be temporary, or maybe permanent, I really haven't decided that for sure. All I know is, I need to stop for a while. I need to take some time, center myself, and pray about whether this is really what I want to pursue. I need to take a break so this can start to be fun again.<br />
<br />
I've loved having the opportunity to get to know other bloggers, and loved hearing you guy's comments and thoughts on my little blog! I wish you all the best!<br />
<br />
<br />Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-20870500593954419142012-03-27T10:15:00.000-05:002012-03-27T10:15:24.781-05:00For My Lexi<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5LLFw1nAcSw/T3HZMVTdnmI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/800g6FAeUug/s1600/Lexis+Birthday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5LLFw1nAcSw/T3HZMVTdnmI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/800g6FAeUug/s400/Lexis+Birthday.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear daughter of mine, this is what I want you to know:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want you to grow up knowing that you are beautiful, just
like every other person in this world. I
also want you to realize that appearance doesn’t actually matter in the grand
scheme of things. Let your beauty be in
your love.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want you to know that you are going to hear so many
messages in life telling you you’re incomplete. They are lying.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want you to understand that, even though your mommy is a
bad example, insecurities are not an integral part of being a woman.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want you to always remember that you are loved, not just by
your family, but by the God of the universe.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want you to believe that giving really is better than receiving.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want you to know that some boy might end up breaking your
heart in the future. Run to God for
comfort first. I’m perfectly willing to
be second in line.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I also want you to know that your daddy is a great example
of what to look for in a loving man, when you’re ready to open your heart
again.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want you to know that when you get your driver’s license,
I will expect you to check in with me every ten minutes. That should be temporary.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I want you to know that as my belly expands with this new
baby, so does my heart. I am incapable of
loving you any less than I already do.
Even with your epic tantrums.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You are loved. I’ve
already said that, but it needs to be repeated and remembered every day. You. Are. Loved.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>*Sorry for the silence here the past week! Mornings filled with nausea, and evenings with work have kept me otherwise occupied. I've also been contemplating the direction I want this little blog to go. I haven't quite figured that out yet, but when I do, I'll be sure to let you know!*</i></div>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-50463526486419245572012-03-16T12:42:00.002-05:002012-03-16T12:42:40.597-05:00FTF - The Girl Effect<br />
Alright, people, I had a whole plan of how this post was going to go today. I was going to show you really cool sites with fair trade maternity clothes, and maybe some baby clothes thrown in for good measure. I would go through my favorite picks from those sites, and it would be awesome. Why maternity clothes, you ask? Well, here's why:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SagQVj0uGUQ/T2NzNxywyOI/AAAAAAAAA1E/PTS5yIi1g0o/s1600/Prego.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SagQVj0uGUQ/T2NzNxywyOI/AAAAAAAAA1E/PTS5yIi1g0o/s400/Prego.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Um, yeah. That would be mine. (*excuse me as I giggle uncontrollably...*) Yep, this will be our baby #2, already christened with the nickname Lima Bean.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, fair trade maternity clothes, and baby clothes for that matter, are a lot harder to track down than I expected! So, instead I'd like to share a video with you from a non-profit called <a href="http://thegirleffect.org/question">The Girl Effect</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1e8xgF0JtVg?fs=1" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
Now, this may be the pregnancy hormones taking over, but this made me kinda sad, and weepy, and a little angry after watching it. I know I'm extremely blessed to have been born into a country where I got to choose my husband, had access to trained healthcare professionals all through my first pregnancy, and will have access to those same benefits with this child as well. I got to go back to work as an option, and even got to go to college (forever ago!), with the option of dropping out (which I did). There are so many girls worldwide that never get the chance to make any of those decisions!<br />
<br />
Thankfully, <a href="http://thegirleffect.org/">The Girl Effect</a>, a collaboration between people at the Nike Foundation, the NoVo Foundation, the United Nations Foundation, and the Coalition for Adolescent Girls, is working towards making a difference through spreading awareness and asking for donations from the general public. Now, I sometimes get a little nervous sending money to an organization without really knowing where it's going to be spent. So, I did a little digging on their website, and found out where those donations go. There's two options for giving. The first is to make a donation to the <a href="http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/girl-effect-fund/">Girl Effect Fund</a>, where the money is equally distributed between the projects listed on the site. There's also the option to <a href="http://www.globalgiving.org/girleffect/learn-more/">pick the project</a> you'd like to fund, such as the <a href="http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/provide-an-education-for-exceptional-kenyan-girls/">Daraja Academy for Exceptional Kenyan Girls</a>, or the <a href="http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/educate-girls-orphaned-by-hiv-aids-in-rural-uganda/">Nyaka AIDS Orphan Project</a> in rural Uganda.<br />
<br />
Overall, I love what The Girl Effect is doing, and I love getting the chance to share their story even more.<br />
<br />
Have a great weekend, everyone! Oh, and wish me luck on pulling together a 2nd birthday party for a certain daughter of mine! Photos will probably be posted very soon.Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-6142767670923273962012-03-15T11:14:00.003-05:002012-03-15T11:14:47.230-05:00Outfit Post - Vacation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LIFO4G9ndzw/T2IRIv1lYZI/AAAAAAAAA0k/bK1olRhNtCg/s1600/2-27-12+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LIFO4G9ndzw/T2IRIv1lYZI/AAAAAAAAA0k/bK1olRhNtCg/s400/2-27-12+(1).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-liOMQLb556w/T2IRMM8GZzI/AAAAAAAAA0s/8KCICkxgBKs/s1600/2-27-12+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-liOMQLb556w/T2IRMM8GZzI/AAAAAAAAA0s/8KCICkxgBKs/s400/2-27-12+(2).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cFWQ3YB6J6g/T2IRR-zxlRI/AAAAAAAAA00/KzqeEBjyrn8/s1600/2-27-12+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cFWQ3YB6J6g/T2IRR-zxlRI/AAAAAAAAA00/KzqeEBjyrn8/s400/2-27-12+(3).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QzulPzAuJno/T2IRZClrxHI/AAAAAAAAA08/eZtNExhxEsQ/s1600/2-27-12+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QzulPzAuJno/T2IRZClrxHI/AAAAAAAAA08/eZtNExhxEsQ/s400/2-27-12+(4).JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
I've been looking at these pictures for a good five minutes, trying to come up with something witty to say. Unfortunately, I believe my wit has decided to start spring break early, without even a note to tell me it left. How rude. Oh well, I hope it has fun, and maybe went somewhere where it can work on it's tan. That sucker is starting to pale in comparison.<br />
<br />
<i>Outfit Details:</i><br />
<i>Sweater: Gap Outlet, $8</i><br />
<i>Shirt: thrifted, $3</i><br />
<i>Belt: Plato's Closet resale, $4</i><br />
<i>Jeans: Wal-Mart, $12</i><br />
<i>Boots: gifted</i><br />
<i>Earrings: Icing by Claire's, $3 (old)</i>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-8815107460893821172012-03-13T18:05:00.003-05:002012-03-13T18:05:59.816-05:00Outfit Post - Getting Warmer....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SlyU2mE85Ow/T1_Q081CtqI/AAAAAAAAAzs/ZOZTTsYoM40/s1600/2-24-12+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SlyU2mE85Ow/T1_Q081CtqI/AAAAAAAAAzs/ZOZTTsYoM40/s400/2-24-12+(1).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Rlx3UYEIUc/T1_Q4qpU91I/AAAAAAAAAz0/_N2kA9vVFjs/s1600/2-24-12+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Rlx3UYEIUc/T1_Q4qpU91I/AAAAAAAAAz0/_N2kA9vVFjs/s400/2-24-12+(2).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S4Qb2SAslPQ/T1_Q_S_wprI/AAAAAAAAAz8/n5UGqutPXAU/s1600/2-24-12+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S4Qb2SAslPQ/T1_Q_S_wprI/AAAAAAAAAz8/n5UGqutPXAU/s400/2-24-12+(3).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0TwOH5KqVO8/T1_RDq1x11I/AAAAAAAAA0E/BjZhardBuBc/s1600/2-24-12+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0TwOH5KqVO8/T1_RDq1x11I/AAAAAAAAA0E/BjZhardBuBc/s400/2-24-12+(4).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nVmbqvQErc4/T1_RKEvWhQI/AAAAAAAAA0M/b0el5i1eTo0/s1600/2-24-12+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nVmbqvQErc4/T1_RKEvWhQI/AAAAAAAAA0M/b0el5i1eTo0/s400/2-24-12+(5).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-unmywh6vM6I/T1_RQSpgFZI/AAAAAAAAA0U/uBRsZGysstQ/s1600/2-24-12+(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-unmywh6vM6I/T1_RQSpgFZI/AAAAAAAAA0U/uBRsZGysstQ/s400/2-24-12+(6).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4WhwwB8U6mA/T1_RWtUJDpI/AAAAAAAAA0c/6LtUwIPHi4Y/s1600/2-24-12+(7).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4WhwwB8U6mA/T1_RWtUJDpI/AAAAAAAAA0c/6LtUwIPHi4Y/s400/2-24-12+(7).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm calling it: Winter is OVER, folks! It's March, 78 degrees and sunny, and you won't hear any complaints from me.<br />
<br />
Oh, what do you guys think of the new background for the pictures? I've decided to step out of my comfort zone and start taking pictures in places other than by my front door. So, if you happen to see a crazy redhead with a tripod running around town, don't worry. It's just me. And I'm not actually crazy. Well, not certifiably.<br />
<br />
<i>Outfit Details:</i><br />
<i>Sweater: thrifted, $1.50</i><br />
<i>Cardigan: Kohl's, $11 (clearance)</i><br />
<i>Purple tank: Wal-Mart, $4</i><br />
<i>Jeans: Wal-Mart, $12</i><br />
<i>Shoes: Payless, $8 (old)</i><br />
<i>Necklace: JC Penney, $4 (clearance)</i><br />
<i>Funky nailpolish: unintentionally awesome</i>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-426995184342890582012-03-09T09:02:00.003-06:002012-03-09T09:02:54.316-06:00FTF - A GuestToday's Fair Trade Friday is brought to you by a guest blogger, the lovely Jessica from <a href="http://monster-cakes.blogspot.com/">monster cakes</a>. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HLnpLvN_PdE/T1oaGj4BXeI/AAAAAAAAAzk/QZT3ZyeBqpo/s1600/fallingwhistles_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HLnpLvN_PdE/T1oaGj4BXeI/AAAAAAAAAzk/QZT3ZyeBqpo/s400/fallingwhistles_edited-1.jpg" width="396" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', courier, monaco, monospace, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">
Who they are: <a href="http://www.fallingwhistles.com/main/" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer;" target="_blank">Falling Whistles</a>.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', courier, monaco, monospace, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', courier, monaco, monospace, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">
<div>
What they do: Campaign for peace in Congo.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I first discovered these beautiful whistle necklaces from a friend. After learning what the whistles stood for, I knew I had to have one. I had to do something, even if it meant simply wearing the whistle and raising awareness about the war in Congo. It's a small start, but it's something.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Why a whistle? I think the <a href="http://www.fallingwhistles.com/main/" style="color: #0068cf; cursor: pointer;" target="_blank">Falling Whistles website</a> explains it best...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Captured by Nkunda's rebel army, some boys not big enough to hold a gun were given merely a whistle and put on the front lines of battle. Their sole duty was to make enough noise to scare the enemy and then to receive--with their bodies--the first round of bullets."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Their weapon could be our voice. Wear your protest and join a growing conciliation for peace in Congo. Be a whistleblower for peace."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I wear my protest.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And every time I get to share their story and shed light on the situation in Congo, I feel my heart burn deeper for those kids. I feel a desire growing in me to do more. To be more. That's my I wear my whistle: to remind me to be the change I want to see in the world.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small; line-height: normal; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i>It wasn't planned, but this post actually ends up having great timing, in light of the <a href="http://kony2012.s3-website-us-east-1.amazonaws.com/">KONY 2012</a> campaign that has garnered so much attention recently. It's great to get a chance to hear about and support another organization that is working towards peace. Thanks for reading, and if you get a chance, check out Jessica's <a href="http://monster-cakes.blogspot.com/">blog</a>! </i></span></div>
</div>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-21360030405987643062012-03-05T13:49:00.002-06:002012-03-05T13:49:55.706-06:00Outfit Post - Goodbye...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ygS2MZE48MY/T1UXhVbHZ0I/AAAAAAAAAy8/9t4AcJhKSCw/s1600/2-12-12+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ygS2MZE48MY/T1UXhVbHZ0I/AAAAAAAAAy8/9t4AcJhKSCw/s400/2-12-12+(1).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q1FQ7gNc1VU/T1UXlumdo2I/AAAAAAAAAzE/t5z_pV0ORyA/s1600/2-12-12+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q1FQ7gNc1VU/T1UXlumdo2I/AAAAAAAAAzE/t5z_pV0ORyA/s400/2-12-12+(2).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cXHZGNOp_A4/T1UXpvVhpmI/AAAAAAAAAzM/fDTbOX_W1Vs/s1600/2-12-12+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cXHZGNOp_A4/T1UXpvVhpmI/AAAAAAAAAzM/fDTbOX_W1Vs/s400/2-12-12+(3).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lj440boAnmE/T1UXtpOVElI/AAAAAAAAAzU/FqrU-iJxTac/s1600/2-12-12+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lj440boAnmE/T1UXtpOVElI/AAAAAAAAAzU/FqrU-iJxTac/s400/2-12-12+(4).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
...to Winter! In memoriam of the passing season, a layered look. In retrospect, I feel like this outfit really needed a lot more jewelry, but it is what it is. Now, I'm ready for Spring!<br />
<br />
Also, from the department of random things that make me happy, here's a picture of Penny snuggled up in the covers:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-USCLxv3yVsk/T1UYSosKLGI/AAAAAAAAAzc/QfxQmauPhN0/s1600/1-17-12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-USCLxv3yVsk/T1UYSosKLGI/AAAAAAAAAzc/QfxQmauPhN0/s400/1-17-12.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I don't wanna get up!"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>Outfit Details:</i><br />
<i>Sweater: Wet Seal, $6 (old)</i><br />
<i>Dress: Target, $15</i><br />
<i>Belt: from dress</i><br />
<i>Necklace: DIY'd from an earring without a pair</i><br />
<i>Tights: JC Penney, $5</i><br />
<i>Boots: Shoe Carnival, $15 (clearance)</i>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-60729199357883090832012-02-28T09:58:00.002-06:002012-02-28T09:58:52.501-06:00Outfit Post - Spiffy I got a new sweater, and it's spiffy. See?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--9U9kYIUBaE/T0z4CJ_i_8I/AAAAAAAAAyU/U-NufFYLlgE/s1600/2-18-12+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--9U9kYIUBaE/T0z4CJ_i_8I/AAAAAAAAAyU/U-NufFYLlgE/s400/2-18-12+(1).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HSIE0tqnwhM/T0z4E2rESCI/AAAAAAAAAyc/8R4zniuX6ew/s1600/2-18-12+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HSIE0tqnwhM/T0z4E2rESCI/AAAAAAAAAyc/8R4zniuX6ew/s400/2-18-12+(2).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D8CjaE-bc0k/T0z4I5Dx6CI/AAAAAAAAAyk/cdynjhgHbxo/s1600/2-18-12+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D8CjaE-bc0k/T0z4I5Dx6CI/AAAAAAAAAyk/cdynjhgHbxo/s400/2-18-12+(3).JPG" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why, hello there!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dkUpKx04ad8/T0z4ML3sB-I/AAAAAAAAAys/bMsnX68LjWw/s1600/2-18-12+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dkUpKx04ad8/T0z4ML3sB-I/AAAAAAAAAys/bMsnX68LjWw/s400/2-18-12+(4).JPG" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She wanted a hug...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sFNXPIPZb9w/T0z4TAd5rVI/AAAAAAAAAy0/6PZXP9Cfr7Y/s1600/2-18-12+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sFNXPIPZb9w/T0z4TAd5rVI/AAAAAAAAAy0/6PZXP9Cfr7Y/s400/2-18-12+(5).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Not gonna lie, the jewels on the sweater almost veer into ugly Christmas sweater territory, but I think that may be why I love it so much! That, coupled with my current unhealthy obsession with lime green items.<br />
<br />
<i>Outfit Details:</i><br />
<i>Blue Shirt: Gap, $5 (clearance)</i><br />
<i>Black Tank: Wal-Mart, $4</i><br />
<i>Sweater: thrifted, $2</i><br />
<i>Jeans: Wal-Mart, $12</i><br />
<i>Shoes: Payless, $7 (so incredibly old!)</i><br />
<i>Necklace: $1 Jewelry Galore</i><br />
<i>Earrings: Hot Topic, $5</i>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-23218015125801425262012-02-24T10:09:00.003-06:002012-02-24T10:09:59.948-06:00FTF - A TwoferAs you may have guessed by the title, today's Fair Trade Friday is a twofer. And, as if that's not enough, today's organizations are very special and personal to me. First off, I'd like to introduce you to my sister-in-law.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zEIwltdlxBI/T0etS1fAmKI/AAAAAAAAAx0/pEk0whewFMg/s1600/FTF+Anna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zEIwltdlxBI/T0etS1fAmKI/AAAAAAAAAx0/pEk0whewFMg/s400/FTF+Anna.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
This beautiful little girl is Anna. She is one of three children my in-laws have adopted from China. Now, I know the cliche is that I'm not supposed to get along with my in-laws, but that is the farthest thing from the truth! I can honestly say I am so blessed to be a part of my husband's family, and so happy to get to be a part of their lives. What impresses me the most is that, after their three boys were grown and (mostly) out of the house, my parents-in-law were willing to take in three more children, all of whom had special needs. Anna, in particular, required multiple surgeries to repair a cleft palate. Oftentimes, the stress and medical costs associated with the medical care a child like Anna would need would interfere in whether or not a family decides to adopt a child. Which brings me to the first organization, <a href="http://www.lovewithoutboundaries.com/">Love Without Boundaries.</a><br />
<br />
Now, technically, Love Without Boundaries isn't fair trade. It is a non-profit organization, founded in 2003, that is "dedicated to improving the lives of orphaned and impoverished children in China, [providing] humanitarian aid in the following areas - Education, Foster Care, Healing Homes, Medical, and Orphanage Assistance. (from their <a href="http://www.lovewithoutboundaries.com/who-we-are">website</a>.)" They are doing amazing things, including the fact that they helped pay for a surgeon in China to repair my sister Anna's cleft palate before she came home. (I told you they hit a personal spot for me!) They have a whole array of ways to get involved listed on their website, including <a href="https://www.lovewithoutboundaries.com/donate/">monetary donations</a>, <a href="https://www.lovewithoutboundaries.com/sponsor-child/">sponsoring a child</a>, or with even more<a href="https://www.lovewithoutboundaries.com/get-involved/"> in depth ways</a>. However, if you're hoping to actually get some shopping ideas from today's post, I'll go ahead and introduce you to the second organization on the agenda today.<br />
<br />
Meet<a href="http://sevenly.org/"> Sevenly</a>. Sevenly sells T-Shirts, with a business model that is meant to raise money and awareness for multiple organizations. Basically, they partner with a new organization each week, 52 each year, design a really cool T-Shirt, and donate $7 from each shirt to the charity of the week. It's all explained in this <a href="http://sevenly.org/mission">nifty flow chart</a> on their website. In the past, they've partnered with some amazing organizations, such as <a href="http://love146.org/?gclid=CJ6zkoX9tq4CFQoBQAodkgTnpg">Love146</a>, <a href="http://water.org/">water.org</a>, and <a href="http://www.autismspeaks.org/">Autism Speaks</a>. This week, they're partnered up with, wait for it........... Love Without Boundaries! They've got this amazing Tee-Shirt design available:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-78UlfA130MI/T0e0U0rgcMI/AAAAAAAAAyE/N0P9tBAm9xo/s1600/FTF+Sevenly+LWB+Tee+Shirts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-78UlfA130MI/T0e0U0rgcMI/AAAAAAAAAyE/N0P9tBAm9xo/s320/FTF+Sevenly+LWB+Tee+Shirts.jpg" width="288" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Seriously, how cool is this shirt! It's also available in two other colors, AND, if there's a guy in your life, they come in a guy's style too. And, if Tee-Shirts just aren't your thing, they also offer hoodies.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bv3sKr-J-cw/T0e0yO07gfI/AAAAAAAAAyM/cBKOxG-n-_Q/s1600/FTF+Sevenly+LWB+Hoodie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bv3sKr-J-cw/T0e0yO07gfI/AAAAAAAAAyM/cBKOxG-n-_Q/s400/FTF+Sevenly+LWB+Hoodie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This style for Love Without Boundaries is only available for three more days, before Sevenly starts selling a new style for a new organization. So, if you miss the time window, don't freak out! I'm sure there will be even more organizations featured on the <a href="http://sevenly.org/">Sevenly site</a>, with more amazing designs. There's even a little box on the bottom of the site where you can enter your e-mail and get a preview of each week's shirt. They're doing amazing things, and I hope you get a chance to check them out!<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading today, and I hope you have an amazing weekend!Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-25576343227863470592012-02-23T16:05:00.001-06:002012-02-23T16:05:03.527-06:00Outfit Post - Little Pops<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gom2X5ud7Vk/T0a2a51m31I/AAAAAAAAAxM/CHHd41419fQ/s1600/2-20-12+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gom2X5ud7Vk/T0a2a51m31I/AAAAAAAAAxM/CHHd41419fQ/s400/2-20-12+(1).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-znSiB4xQ-Iw/T0a2fBpxh1I/AAAAAAAAAxU/5ekDvrhDhAs/s1600/2-20-12+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-znSiB4xQ-Iw/T0a2fBpxh1I/AAAAAAAAAxU/5ekDvrhDhAs/s400/2-20-12+(2).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1NAhx0bHFZY/T0a2leUUjhI/AAAAAAAAAxc/hhThD6pkrhM/s1600/2-20-12+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1NAhx0bHFZY/T0a2leUUjhI/AAAAAAAAAxc/hhThD6pkrhM/s400/2-20-12+(3).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UpvJ69Qplak/T0a2rVhaRyI/AAAAAAAAAxk/j2sEooVQmDE/s1600/2-20-12+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UpvJ69Qplak/T0a2rVhaRyI/AAAAAAAAAxk/j2sEooVQmDE/s400/2-20-12+(4).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lSoifE9M2j8/T0a2xKelr1I/AAAAAAAAAxs/E1waIhdV0eY/s1600/2-20-12+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lSoifE9M2j8/T0a2xKelr1I/AAAAAAAAAxs/E1waIhdV0eY/s400/2-20-12+(5).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm trying to keep it simple for work, but I couldn't resist some grey and yellow combination action. I wish I had more witty and intelligent things to say about this outfit, but there just isn't anything. I just like yellow and grey together. Yep.<br />
<br />
<i>Outfit Details:</i><br />
<i>Shirt: Eddie Bauer Outlet, $10</i><br />
<i>Sweater: Charlotte Russe, $8 (old)</i><br />
<i>Jeans: Plato's Closet resale, $4</i><br />
<i>Shoes: Chucks, $45</i><br />
<i>Bracelet: gifted</i><br />
<i>Earrings: Icing by Claire's, $4 (old)</i><br />
<i>Scarf: Wal-Mart, $5</i><br />
<br />Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-51017790528551958832012-02-20T09:55:00.000-06:002012-02-20T09:55:11.635-06:00Outfit Post - Wonky<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pgNWAHck5OU/T0Jquaw71QI/AAAAAAAAAwc/1_Np95jyijs/s1600/1-3-12+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pgNWAHck5OU/T0Jquaw71QI/AAAAAAAAAwc/1_Np95jyijs/s400/1-3-12+(1).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t1uw7vOwqm0/T0Jqx7b31hI/AAAAAAAAAwk/xB69rUHspmI/s1600/1-3-12+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t1uw7vOwqm0/T0Jqx7b31hI/AAAAAAAAAwk/xB69rUHspmI/s400/1-3-12+(2).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lk5CyyPuUm8/T0Jq1OnCuII/AAAAAAAAAws/09oiGqEI1Gw/s1600/1-3-12+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lk5CyyPuUm8/T0Jq1OnCuII/AAAAAAAAAws/09oiGqEI1Gw/s400/1-3-12+(3).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
I don't know if you can see it, but there's a crooked board on the fence behind me. It's kinda wonky, just like me. And because it makes me happy, here's a close up:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hE-vL2CTCgg/T0JrWsemWsI/AAAAAAAAAw0/4nwnm-4pRhc/s1600/1-3-12+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hE-vL2CTCgg/T0JrWsemWsI/AAAAAAAAAw0/4nwnm-4pRhc/s400/1-3-12+(4).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Oh, and by the way, if you're planning on walking through some grass to stand by a fence and take pictures any time soon, maybe check to see if the grass is dry before walking through it with your suede boots...?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5_VZInc1KEQ/T0Jr3Ox1woI/AAAAAAAAAw8/6JyicdmYGqk/s1600/1-3-12+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5_VZInc1KEQ/T0Jr3Ox1woI/AAAAAAAAAw8/6JyicdmYGqk/s400/1-3-12+(5).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Outfit Details:</i><br />
<i>Dress: Kohl's, $10 (clearance)</i><br />
<i>LS Tee: Kohl's, $6</i><br />
<i>Tights: Target, $5</i><br />
<i>Sweater: gifted</i><br />
<i>Boots: gifted</i><br />
<i>Necklace: eBay, $7</i><br />
<i>Headband: don't recall (old)</i>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-17901783685047298142012-02-17T12:00:00.000-06:002012-02-17T12:00:07.764-06:00FTF - Indigenous DesignsI found today's fair trade company through one of those Google ads that are here on the blog. I thought it only fair that I shared them with you as well! The company is called<a href="http://www.indigenousdesigns.com/"> Indigenous Designs</a>, and they've got some great clothes on their website. The company was founded in 1993, after one of the founders had encountered some of the beautiful work of artisans in South America. He came back with an idea for a business model, and a company, with a commitment to sustainability and socially responsible actions, was created. Their products are made with eco-friendly and organic fibers, dyed without harmful chemicals, and handmade by artisans that are paid a fair and livable wage. And their products are gorgeous! Take this cardigan, for example:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zBkW2TmKxms/Tz6RSLMGKEI/AAAAAAAAAwA/h7DvIzH1KE8/s1600/FTF+Indigenous+silk+cardigan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zBkW2TmKxms/Tz6RSLMGKEI/AAAAAAAAAwA/h7DvIzH1KE8/s400/FTF+Indigenous+silk+cardigan.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.indigenousdesigns.com/shop/product/58448ASH/belted-silk-cardigan">Belted Silk Cardigan</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I know spring is on it's way, but the past week has been kinda dreary in these parts. Dreary weather always makes me crave cozy sweaters, and this one is gorgeous!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oAo87Ukt8IY/Tz6R-WK1u2I/AAAAAAAAAwI/gl7u_5FH4wI/s1600/FTF+Indigenous+poncho.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oAo87Ukt8IY/Tz6R-WK1u2I/AAAAAAAAAwI/gl7u_5FH4wI/s400/FTF+Indigenous+poncho.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.indigenousdesigns.com/shop/product/26125HAZELNUT/striped-poncho">Striped Poncho</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Speaking of cozy, how comfy would this poncho be? (Rhetorical question, by the way...) I'm in love with neutral tones lately, especially camel. This little caplet of comfy is also available in green.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SEcyLySieh8/Tz6TZQaLiCI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/1Vvi685G-HY/s1600/FTF+Indigenous+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SEcyLySieh8/Tz6TZQaLiCI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/1Vvi685G-HY/s400/FTF+Indigenous+flowers.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.indigenousdesigns.com/shop/product/84988/flower_pins">Flower Pins</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
How fun are these little pins? (Okay, enough with the questions!) I love all the little colors, and I'm already making a mental list of everything in my closet I'd want to pin these on.<br />
<br />
There's so many more products on the <a href="http://www.indigenousdesigns.com/">Indigenous Designs website</a>, as well as more information on the <a href="http://www.indigenousdesigns.com/section/company/index">backstory of the company</a>. Thanks for reading today!<br />
<br />
<i>*Total side note: did you know my niece (the photographer) has<a href="http://tesolcymotnipets.blogspot.com/"> a fashion blog</a> now? She's got this amazing sense of style, and is just starting out in the blogging world. I'd love it if you'd check out her site, and maybe send a little encouragement her way!*</i>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-12839588512679014182012-02-16T15:09:00.000-06:002012-02-16T15:09:48.877-06:00Outfit Post - Jeans<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFE1b8r_APs/Tz1uB86Re6I/AAAAAAAAAvY/kLeOXoVVPO8/s1600/2-5-12+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFE1b8r_APs/Tz1uB86Re6I/AAAAAAAAAvY/kLeOXoVVPO8/s400/2-5-12+(1).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ztut9XptZX0/Tz1uFZisDrI/AAAAAAAAAvg/FoSm1d3DYPk/s1600/2-5-12+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ztut9XptZX0/Tz1uFZisDrI/AAAAAAAAAvg/FoSm1d3DYPk/s400/2-5-12+(2).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2_l-6B0KpZY/Tz1uIbx4zjI/AAAAAAAAAvk/vo3Cmed9HAo/s1600/2-5-12+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2_l-6B0KpZY/Tz1uIbx4zjI/AAAAAAAAAvk/vo3Cmed9HAo/s400/2-5-12+(3).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tFihMmWL0xE/Tz1uPcnL0MI/AAAAAAAAAvs/nUGCG2y59yQ/s1600/2-5-12+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tFihMmWL0xE/Tz1uPcnL0MI/AAAAAAAAAvs/nUGCG2y59yQ/s400/2-5-12+(4).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n6IJr6jcdCw/Tz1uWlkoqAI/AAAAAAAAAv0/3jKp6RbRdlE/s1600/2-5-12+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n6IJr6jcdCw/Tz1uWlkoqAI/AAAAAAAAAv0/3jKp6RbRdlE/s400/2-5-12+(5).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
Today's post is brought to you by: my new job! I got the call last night, offering me a part-time cashier position at a local children's resale shop. I'm pretty excited, both about working again after a two year hiatus, and about the discount I'll be getting on new clothes for Lexi. The only downfall: the dress code is a logo T-shirt, jeans, and probably sneakers (unless I can find some affordable, comfortable, AND cute flats!). I'll be dipping into my fairly large collection of jewelry to try and lend a little personality to the outfit! All of that aside, I'm excited to start in this new position tomorrow, it's definitely an answer to prayer.<br />
<br />
<i>Outfit Details:</i><br />
<i>Coat: Navy supply store, gifted</i><br />
<i>AE Sweater: thrifted, $3</i><br />
<i>Purple tank: Eddie Bauer Outlet, $6</i><br />
<i>Jeans: Wal-Mart, $5 (clearance)</i><br />
<i>Boots: Shoe Carnival, $15 (clearance)</i><br />
<i>Earrings: handmade, $5</i><br />
<i>Necklace: $1 Jewelry Galore</i>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-21768876082654120592012-02-14T11:06:00.002-06:002012-02-14T11:06:44.765-06:00Outfit Post - Red<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nXTcss-cgTo/TzqTXwcya8I/AAAAAAAAAvI/eDIL-O0NL-g/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nXTcss-cgTo/TzqTXwcya8I/AAAAAAAAAvI/eDIL-O0NL-g/s400/003.JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3EsEr9Qp6oY/TzqTVDRW3WI/AAAAAAAAAvA/_gL7LcdAGeU/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3EsEr9Qp6oY/TzqTVDRW3WI/AAAAAAAAAvA/_gL7LcdAGeU/s400/001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SfyQQny24ag/TzqTa3rShCI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/dYrcMckSLAk/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SfyQQny24ag/TzqTa3rShCI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/dYrcMckSLAk/s400/004.JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
I found something out today. My closet has a deficit of red or pink clothing. Normally, that wouldn't bother me, but when you want to dress up for a certain holiday (wait, was that today?), it's nice to have some selection. Good thing I made this dress a few months ago, or I would've had to rely on my trusty red sweatpants. No one wants to see that.<br />
<br />
<i>Outfit Details:</i><br />
<i>Dress: DIY, from materials on hand</i><br />
<i>Sweater: Sears, $3 (clearance)</i><br />
<i>Leggings: Target, $8</i><br />
<i>Boots: N Style, $15</i><br />
<i>Belt: my mom's closet</i><br />
<i>Earrings: Icing by Claire's, $5 (old)</i>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-16217284380933509972012-02-13T11:52:00.000-06:002012-02-13T11:52:20.225-06:00Thoughts<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><sup><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">“ 8</span></sup></b><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true,
whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely,
whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such
things.</span>”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="apple-converted-space"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I’ve been very good at being negative lately, especially
towards myself. The little dissatisfied
voice manages to speak up in my head almost all the time, and for some reason,
I allow myself to listen. “You don’t
write anymore, gosh, you are so lazy.
Oh, and did you really need four of those cookies last night? I mean, you only work out once a week, so all
those calories are just going to stick with you. You keep complaining that your jeans don’t
fit, why don’t you just do something about it?”
Yep, that little voice just prattles on, while I just sit back and
absorb the negativity. Then, I’m surprised
when I’m cranky and dissatisfied all the time.
When I was sitting in church yesterday, the verse listed above (from
Philippians 4) stuck with me. At first
reading, especially out of context, it simply sounds like a sound byte for the
Power of Positive Thinking. But it’s
more than that. It’s a call to focus
your mind and thinking on God. I think
it’s about time for me to start refocusing my thoughts. For example, instead of thinking, “Wow, you’re
so lazy,” change that to, “Wow, God is an infinite source of strength and
inspiration.” Instead of, “you’ll never
live up to your standards of beauty,” thinking, “God created everything
beautiful.” I am so easily distracted
that it’s easy to forget where my eyes and mind need to be directed. I’m just glad that God is faithful to give me
reminders when I’m off track.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-74648895142981866912012-02-13T10:40:00.000-06:002012-02-13T10:40:17.671-06:00Snow Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gnn5AMIPEcw/Tzk8eY9K6hI/AAAAAAAAAuo/9aAvbTT_y4g/s1600/2-13-12+Snow+Day+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gnn5AMIPEcw/Tzk8eY9K6hI/AAAAAAAAAuo/9aAvbTT_y4g/s400/2-13-12+Snow+Day+(1).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DV0VJ9W_y1Q/Tzk8lkUR3sI/AAAAAAAAAuw/IpB3nzc6K1I/s1600/2-13-12+Snow+Day+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DV0VJ9W_y1Q/Tzk8lkUR3sI/AAAAAAAAAuw/IpB3nzc6K1I/s400/2-13-12+Snow+Day+(2).JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RLSF0VslPho/Tzk8rICw9LI/AAAAAAAAAu4/2P72NwzbkiA/s1600/2-13-12+Snow+Day+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RLSF0VslPho/Tzk8rICw9LI/AAAAAAAAAu4/2P72NwzbkiA/s400/2-13-12+Snow+Day+(3).JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's our first official (and possibly only) snow day of the year!</div>
<br />Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-57739215180938946982012-02-10T09:52:00.001-06:002012-02-10T09:52:35.978-06:00FTF - Tiny Hands InternationalAs I'm sure you're aware, Valentine's Day is on it's way. A lot of flowers and candy will be given as gifts, and you can bet I'll be heading to the grocery store on February 15th to get half-priced chocolate hearts! Some guys tend to opt for jewelry as a V-Day gift for their significant other, kinda like my husband did! However, instead of diamonds and gold, he bought me this bracelet:<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XWGM9AkQvQY/TzU4QPfRH3I/AAAAAAAAAuM/T_WewBuO448/s1600/FTF+Tiny+Hands+one+girl+bracelet.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XWGM9AkQvQY/TzU4QPfRH3I/AAAAAAAAAuM/T_WewBuO448/s320/FTF+Tiny+Hands+one+girl+bracelet.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tinyhandsinternational.org/one-girl">One Girl bracelet</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
This is the One Girl bracelet from <a href="http://www.tinyhandsinternational.org/">Tiny Hands International</a>, an organization that is "dedicated to empowering the Body of Christ in the developing world to fight against poverty and social injustice by employing effective strategies and biblical principles." Basically, they're in a fight against the injustices of human trafficking, as well as working for women's empowerment and orphan care. The bracelet, handcrafted by young women in Nepal, is a physical reminder that I've committed to praying for one girl, out of the 10,000 trafficked in Nepal every year. The bracelet's braided black band represents the darkness and bondage of trafficking, while the golden color of the stone signifies God's light of hope for the girl I've "adopted." I'm so excited to receive this bracelet, and so proud of my hubby for thinking of this gift for me!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
On top of the bracelet, there's more products available on the <a href="http://www.tinyhandsinternational.org/store/">Tiny Hands website</a>, the sales of which go towards supporting and improving the organization's children's homes, anti-trafficking efforts, and women's empowerment ministries. They've got some really beautiful stuff in their online shop, and what makes it so much more beautiful is knowing that buying those products has an incredible impact on these girls' lives. Products like this bracelet are already on my wishlist for later:</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AMHZOzKnF8A/TzU8BvslH1I/AAAAAAAAAuU/ORDrRxIyn3Y/s1600/Tiny+Hands+multistrand+green+bracelet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AMHZOzKnF8A/TzU8BvslH1I/AAAAAAAAAuU/ORDrRxIyn3Y/s400/Tiny+Hands+multistrand+green+bracelet.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tinyhandsinternational.org/store/bracelets/tiny-hands-bracelets-small-bead-multi-strand-green/prod_55.html">Green Multistrand Bracelet</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
I also really, REALLY want this scarf! The color is just so vibrant:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eOe1lwNzvvI/TzU8c4HJ_TI/AAAAAAAAAuc/bQzy7-UA7eY/s1600/FTF+Tiny+Hands+purple+scarf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eOe1lwNzvvI/TzU8c4HJ_TI/AAAAAAAAAuc/bQzy7-UA7eY/s400/FTF+Tiny+Hands+purple+scarf.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tinyhandsinternational.org/store/scarves/tiny-hands-scarf-purple/prod_38.html">Purple Scarf</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
There is so much more information, as well as many more beautiful products, available on the <a href="http://www.tinyhandsinternational.org/">Tiny Hands International website</a>. I'd encourage you to check them out!!</div>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-34175436811855504592012-02-08T09:59:00.002-06:002012-02-08T09:59:32.529-06:00Outfit Post: Thrifted<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EdVIO7wLku4/TzKYnrmtMDI/AAAAAAAAAt0/4R7ce0TlfW4/s1600/1-22-12+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EdVIO7wLku4/TzKYnrmtMDI/AAAAAAAAAt0/4R7ce0TlfW4/s400/1-22-12+(1).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4JVNJSDU-w/TzKYqWorzSI/AAAAAAAAAt8/-En_Qf4OPg4/s1600/1-22-12+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4JVNJSDU-w/TzKYqWorzSI/AAAAAAAAAt8/-En_Qf4OPg4/s400/1-22-12+(2).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oDGtBQy6qqU/TzKYsyaeE2I/AAAAAAAAAuE/zZ_prtPZMJI/s1600/1-22-12+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oDGtBQy6qqU/TzKYsyaeE2I/AAAAAAAAAuE/zZ_prtPZMJI/s400/1-22-12+(3).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
There's a beautiful little town just north of where I live called Eureka Springs. There are so many great things about that city, but I won't go into all that detail here. What I do want to talk about is one of their thrift stores. It's called <a href="http://echofreeclinic.org/">ECHO,</a> and it's a thrift store/coffee shop/free health clinic. What, you say? Did I read that right? Yes, my friends, my typist skills didn't fail me. The proceeds from their thrift store go to helping people who cannot afford insurance get free health care, such as physicals and diabetes care. Seriously, how cool is that? That's where I got my sweater, as well as my <a href="http://lexi-and-button.blogspot.com/2012/01/outfit-post-skirt.html">purple skirt</a>. So, if you happen to be in Eureka (maybe picking up some <a href="http://local.yahoo.com/info-18414750-silly-chili-eureka-springs">candied jalapenos?</a>), and also love thrifting, might I suggest checking out this store?<br />
<br />
<i>Outfit Details:</i><br />
<i>Sweater: thrifted, ECHO, $1.50</i><br />
<i>Skirt: thrifted, Goodwill, $4</i><br />
<i>Belt: borrowed from another skirt</i><br />
<i>Tights: Target, $5</i><br />
<i>Shoes: Charlotte Russe, $8 (old)</i><br />
<i>Necklace: Wet Seal, $4 (old)</i>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-70863488139811026392012-02-03T12:22:00.001-06:002012-02-03T12:22:36.344-06:00FTF - Sseko DesignsAlright, people, in honor of the unusually warm winter we've been having, I'm breaking out the sandals. Namely, my <a href="http://www.ssekodesigns.com/">Sseko</a> sandals. What are those, you ask? Only the coolest shoes I've ever seen. Not only are they completely customize-able, and re-mixable (I'm looking at you, <a href="http://www.kendieveryday.com/p/30-for-30-remixes.html">Kendi</a>), but their sales also help to fund a university education for young women in Uganda. There's even a <a href="http://www.ssekodesigns.com/women/">section on the website</a> where you can read a short bio of the young ladies that helped to make the sandals. Like I said, pretty awesome stuff! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1WIxp8W-yX8/TywgD8_tzQI/AAAAAAAAAtU/TS_PRTMTTXc/s1600/FTF+my+sseko's.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1WIxp8W-yX8/TywgD8_tzQI/AAAAAAAAAtU/TS_PRTMTTXc/s400/FTF+my+sseko's.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check these out!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The customize-able part of these shoes involves the straps. You start with a hand-crafted leather base, and then choose whatever straps, available in pretty much any color imaginable, to make your sandals your own. The straps I pictured above were actually a limited edition strap, as some designs are, but there are a ton more colors and patterns available on <a href="http://shop.ssekodesigns.com/home.php?cat=250">the website</a>! Any prospective brides out there, guess what? You can even order <a href="http://www.ssekodesigns.com/wedding/">sandals with silk straps</a> (in even more colors!) for you and your bridesmaids to wear in your wedding.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nQTCyWwO9nI/Tywi7_amDRI/AAAAAAAAAtc/cooSk2DSajM/s1600/FTF+Valentine+Ssekos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nQTCyWwO9nI/Tywi7_amDRI/AAAAAAAAAtc/cooSk2DSajM/s400/FTF+Valentine+Ssekos.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://shop.ssekodesigns.com/product.php?productid=17740&cat=249&page=1">Be Mine Collection</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sseko actually just introduced a new collection this week, in honor of valentine's day, that includes the base sandals and three limited edition straps. It's called the <a href="http://shop.ssekodesigns.com/product.php?productid=17740&cat=249&page=1">Be Mine collection</a>, and I'm suffering some serious want for it!! Maybe a certain hubby might need some nudging and hinting about what my gift should be this year?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ra5BrWDGEJ0/Tywjfufgl3I/AAAAAAAAAtk/nGQWavIf52A/s1600/FTF+lime+green+Ssekos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ra5BrWDGEJ0/Tywjfufgl3I/AAAAAAAAAtk/nGQWavIf52A/s400/FTF+lime+green+Ssekos.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://shop.ssekodesigns.com/product.php?productid=17629&cat=249&page=1">Neon Lime Sandals</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm also suffering some serious envy for these straps! I mean, they're neon lime green! What else really needs to be said?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hb39ygyKgc/Tywj4kI91wI/AAAAAAAAAts/jrpAKW83LGw/s1600/FTF+sseko+coral+clutch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hb39ygyKgc/Tywj4kI91wI/AAAAAAAAAts/jrpAKW83LGw/s400/FTF+sseko+coral+clutch.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://shop.ssekodesigns.com/product.php?productid=17734&cat=271&page=1">Coral Spice Pleated Clutch</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now, if sandals just aren't your 'thang' (I solemnly swear to you now, I will never use that word again!), Sseko just introduced their pleated clutch. There's currently two styles available, including the orange beauty pictured above.<br />
<br />
And, just in case I haven't convinced you of the awesomeness of this company, you should take a moment to check out their <a href="http://www.ssekodesigns.com/sseko-styles/">photo gallery </a>and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/ssekodesigns">Youtube channel</a> to see the nearly infinite ideas for how to tie the straps. Seriously, there's like, a million!<br />
<br />
<i>*Sseko's are available through the <a href="http://www.ssekodesigns.com/">Sseko Designs website</a>, as well as locally, at <a href="http://www.shopthemustache.com/">The Mustache</a> in Fayetteville.*</i>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-8202046463248519002012-02-02T14:59:00.000-06:002012-02-02T14:59:25.367-06:00Outfit Post - SunnyWell, people, the groundhog saw his shadow. Supposedly that means we'll have six more weeks of winter, but does that still apply if NWA hasn't really HAD a winter? It's currently 64 degrees and sunny outside, about the same as it's been all week. I'd be okay with six more weeks of this. In honor of the bright and cheery day, the green jeans get to make another appearance.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-njLz77fSw-U/Tyr4al6SJ2I/AAAAAAAAAs8/FNpVSP46lRw/s1600/1-6-12+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-njLz77fSw-U/Tyr4al6SJ2I/AAAAAAAAAs8/FNpVSP46lRw/s400/1-6-12+(1).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ai9Z86KT0KY/Tyr4dUp9rmI/AAAAAAAAAtE/Ljr1AbPfOrQ/s1600/1-6-12+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ai9Z86KT0KY/Tyr4dUp9rmI/AAAAAAAAAtE/Ljr1AbPfOrQ/s400/1-6-12+(2).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LKjsYZpL8WI/Tyr4gEHdbyI/AAAAAAAAAtM/dNpsIuYbPaw/s1600/1-6-12+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LKjsYZpL8WI/Tyr4gEHdbyI/AAAAAAAAAtM/dNpsIuYbPaw/s400/1-6-12+(3).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>Outfit Details:</i><br />
<i>Shirt: Gap, $5 (clearance)</i><br />
<i>Sweater: Wal-Mart, $8 (old)</i><br />
<i>Jeans: JC Penney, $15 (just saw these jeans on clearance for $8 the other day!)</i><br />
<i>Shoes: Payless Shoesource, $7 (insanely old)</i><br />
<i>Belt: my mom's closet</i><br />
<i>Long necklace: Forever 21, $5</i><br />
<i>Short necklace: gifted</i>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-50355206614759689842012-01-31T14:30:00.001-06:002012-01-31T14:30:23.348-06:00Outfit Post - Color RutSo I noticed the other day that I've been wearing pretty much the same color combination in almost every outfit I put together. This is what's known as (in the extremely technical term that I just made up) a color rut. Those colors happen to be some combination of black, purple, cream, grey, and sometimes gold. Case in point:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4am_WJKQMJE/TyhMmNnnrYI/AAAAAAAAAsM/fv1d06Y5R9U/s1600/1-20-11+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4am_WJKQMJE/TyhMmNnnrYI/AAAAAAAAAsM/fv1d06Y5R9U/s400/1-20-11+(1).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l-ZjuK-EzWk/TyhMrgJrB5I/AAAAAAAAAsc/SCdIlBqWLNs/s1600/1-20-11+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l-ZjuK-EzWk/TyhMrgJrB5I/AAAAAAAAAsc/SCdIlBqWLNs/s400/1-20-11+(3).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sa8gL9jTrdc/TyhMud44HjI/AAAAAAAAAsk/Hw4QmFgT9w4/s1600/1-20-11+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sa8gL9jTrdc/TyhMud44HjI/AAAAAAAAAsk/Hw4QmFgT9w4/s400/1-20-11+(4).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H-UbctjiMqs/TyhMwSwVi3I/AAAAAAAAAss/qjeXdyexSfA/s1600/1-20-11+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H-UbctjiMqs/TyhMwSwVi3I/AAAAAAAAAss/qjeXdyexSfA/s400/1-20-11+(5).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
In my defense, I did try to break it up with a nice little shock of green:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-debo0Xo7_ns/TyhNPxQzg4I/AAAAAAAAAs0/xJUbEk1hcBY/s1600/1-20-11+(7).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-debo0Xo7_ns/TyhNPxQzg4I/AAAAAAAAAs0/xJUbEk1hcBY/s400/1-20-11+(7).JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Expect to see more of these colors in the future.<br />
<br />
On a related note, I've been in a inspiration rut lately as well. It's a nice little combination of writer's block, monotony, and maybe a little bit of laziness on my part. <b>Any writers/creative types out there have any advice on how to break out of said rut?</b> I'd appreciate the help! Love you guys!<br />
<br />
<i>Outfit Details:</i><br />
<i>Dress: thrifted, Gap, $10</i><br />
<i>Sweater: Charlotte Russe, $8 (old)</i><br />
<i>Boots: N Style, $15</i><br />
<i>Belt: my mom's closet</i><br />
<i>Scarf: mall kiosk, $5</i><br />
<i>Purple Tights: Target, $5</i><br />
<i>Earrings: <a href="http://www.premierdesigns.com/">Premier Designs</a> (local ladies, the Spring catalog is out, <b>ask me if you want to see it!</b>)</i><br />
<i>Nail Polish: Pure Ice, 616CP Wild Thing, $2</i><br />
<br />Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-20649043666136143272012-01-27T13:15:00.002-06:002012-01-27T13:15:47.127-06:00FTF - CoffeeToday's Fair Trade Friday isn't going to focus on a particular company. Instead, I'd like to bring up a specific product instead, a product that makes my mornings so much brighter. A product that keeps me from falling asleep after Lexi has requested watching ANOTHER episode of Blue's Clues. That product is coffee. Now, there are a lot of Fair Trade coffee companies (which is Awesome!), so I thought I could focus on just the coffees available at your local Wal-Mart. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ofD615N7eMY/TyLyu5GNyEI/AAAAAAAAArs/RlOTxvCaVBY/s1600/FTF+Sams+Choice+Decaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ofD615N7eMY/TyLyu5GNyEI/AAAAAAAAArs/RlOTxvCaVBY/s320/FTF+Sams+Choice+Decaf.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sam's Choice, Decaffeinated </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Some nights, I want coffee, like those nights that I make breakfast for dinner (because I'm lazy, or because it's awesome? You decide.). However, drinking coffee at night is usually a recipe for lack of sleep. Thankfully, one of Wal-Mart's in-house brands, Sam's Choice, makes a really tasty Decaf blend. And, all Sam's Choice coffee's are Fair Trade certified. They're not available on the Wal-Mart website, but I haven't been in a store yet that doesn't carry the brand.<br />
<br />
Now, my mother-in-law recently bought one of these bad boys:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mHgk0d2w3CM/TyLz3JPrCyI/AAAAAAAAAr0/Y_tPra_gXqE/s1600/Keurig+Coffee+Maker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mHgk0d2w3CM/TyLz3JPrCyI/AAAAAAAAAr0/Y_tPra_gXqE/s320/Keurig+Coffee+Maker.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.keurig.com/brewers/platinum-brewing-system">Keurig Brewing System</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This coffee maker, excuse me *cough cough* brewing system is really pretty cool. It makes single serving beverages, such as coffee, hot cocoa, and tea, with these cute little packages you can get called K-Cups. There are K-Cups of almost every type and variety, including a blend by Newman's Own that is also Fair Trade Certified. I've had it before, and it's actually really good. I say actually because it's an extra bold blend, and normally I don't like my coffee to be bold. This is the exception, 'cause this stuff is awesome!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KQ3loVi2Qj8/TyL1GIw-WaI/AAAAAAAAAr8/eBd4xx06VIQ/s1600/FTF+Newmans+Own+K-cups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KQ3loVi2Qj8/TyL1GIw-WaI/AAAAAAAAAr8/eBd4xx06VIQ/s320/FTF+Newmans+Own+K-cups.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Keurig-K-Cups-Newman-s-Own-Organics-Special-Blend-Extra-Bold-18-ct/14860444">Newman's Special Blend</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There was one more company that I ran across on the Wal-Mart website, called <a href="http://fullcircleexchange.com/">Full Circle Exchange</a>, that I'm actually really interested in trying. They're a socially conscious company that has the empowerment of women around the world at the core of their mission. Pretty cool stuff. And at only $7.88 a bag, plus $0.97 for shipping, their coffee is pretty affordable too!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RkQ5AaF7gdM/TyL2UXig3wI/AAAAAAAAAsE/vDNaiAdLM68/s1600/FTF+Full+Circle+coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RkQ5AaF7gdM/TyL2UXig3wI/AAAAAAAAAsE/vDNaiAdLM68/s320/FTF+Full+Circle+coffee.jpg" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Full-Circle-Exchange-Fair-Trade-Organic-Central-America-French-Roast-Dark-Roast-Whole-Bean-Coffee-12-oz/19347706">Full Circle Exchange French Roast coffee</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There's a coffee shop here in Fayetteville that are worth checking out as well, if you haven't already. It's called Mama Carmen's Espresso Cafe, and it's pretty awesome. If you want to know why, you should check out their <a href="http://mamacarmen.com/cafe">website</a> and see the <a href="http://mamacarmen.com/story">story</a> behind it all!<br />
<br />
Happy Friday everyone!Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-25314496905936318322012-01-26T12:36:00.000-06:002012-01-26T12:36:12.908-06:00Outfit Post - BlueWell, guys, I'm about to embark on an adventure this afternoon. It should be fairly exciting. It's going to be a "attempting to tie dye a few things for a project, and maybe throw in some jeans and even a <a href="http://www.ritdye.com/diy-projects/tie-dyeing/edie%E2%80%99s-marbled-denim-tights">pair of tights</a>, and hope it all turns out and I don't make a complete mess of my kitchen" adventure. Fun stuff. In honor of my attempts, which involve a Rit dye named "Royal Blue," here's an outfit all in blue.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SHRkR7szDpY/TyGb_e5sfgI/AAAAAAAAAq8/YxGBpOF2tgg/s1600/1-24-12+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SHRkR7szDpY/TyGb_e5sfgI/AAAAAAAAAq8/YxGBpOF2tgg/s400/1-24-12+(1).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zo3BOxpSKJM/TyGcBiEGbOI/AAAAAAAAArE/IPMXTw1vIxw/s1600/1-24-12+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zo3BOxpSKJM/TyGcBiEGbOI/AAAAAAAAArE/IPMXTw1vIxw/s400/1-24-12+(2).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--tRXsGbgG-0/TyGcEFLt_zI/AAAAAAAAArM/wDy_YPZc9Xc/s1600/1-24-12+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--tRXsGbgG-0/TyGcEFLt_zI/AAAAAAAAArM/wDy_YPZc9Xc/s400/1-24-12+(3).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QsMV04i6sXo/TyGcIyuKhXI/AAAAAAAAArU/1LIVmqN-pEw/s1600/1-24-12+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QsMV04i6sXo/TyGcIyuKhXI/AAAAAAAAArU/1LIVmqN-pEw/s400/1-24-12+(4).JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vc7_-WvVcPI/TyGcONrbRjI/AAAAAAAAArc/dgf2hmz4Z78/s1600/1-24-12+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vc7_-WvVcPI/TyGcONrbRjI/AAAAAAAAArc/dgf2hmz4Z78/s400/1-24-12+(5).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HZmoiLqdYmA/TyGcVV0VppI/AAAAAAAAArk/mICx1oSZuaU/s1600/1-24-12+(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HZmoiLqdYmA/TyGcVV0VppI/AAAAAAAAArk/mICx1oSZuaU/s400/1-24-12+(6).JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Outfit Details:</i><br />
<i>Shirt: was the hubby's, DIY alterations (tutorial <a href="http://cornflowerbluestudio.blogspot.com/2011/11/how-to-restyle-mens-shirt-for-lady.html">here</a>)</i><br />
<i>Sweater: thrifted, $4</i><br />
<i>Jeans: Wal-Mart, $12</i><br />
<i>Shoes: gifted</i><br />
<i>Earrings: $1 Jewelry Galore</i><br />
<i>Bracelets: Payless Shoesource, $6 (old)</i>Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3259406112180658788.post-88124867949176583602012-01-24T10:36:00.001-06:002012-01-24T10:36:36.120-06:00Outfit Post - The Amazing Grace-iniI'm pretty sure if I ever became a magician (which is improbable considering that requires at least a small amount of hand-eye coordination), this would be my on-stage costume:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cVuKcCU7_GU/Tx7cth710wI/AAAAAAAAAqU/96-g83dPUpI/s1600/1-8-12+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cVuKcCU7_GU/Tx7cth710wI/AAAAAAAAAqU/96-g83dPUpI/s400/1-8-12+%25281%2529.JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YPSowDyRp-Q/Tx7cwvngxlI/AAAAAAAAAqc/wKpFKLJu3DE/s1600/1-8-12+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YPSowDyRp-Q/Tx7cwvngxlI/AAAAAAAAAqc/wKpFKLJu3DE/s400/1-8-12+%25282%2529.JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UAVvOewLSro/Tx7czIivfDI/AAAAAAAAAqk/pmVk6O-nZ5E/s1600/1-8-12+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UAVvOewLSro/Tx7czIivfDI/AAAAAAAAAqk/pmVk6O-nZ5E/s400/1-8-12+%25283%2529.JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Skp5fkfwtwo/Tx7c5yzXBuI/AAAAAAAAAqs/ca0dzc3cxAM/s1600/1-8-12+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Skp5fkfwtwo/Tx7c5yzXBuI/AAAAAAAAAqs/ca0dzc3cxAM/s400/1-8-12+%25284%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Something tells me the act shouldn't involve any spinning.<br />
<br />
<i>Outfit Details:</i><br />
<i>Blazer: thrifted, $5</i><br />
<i>Dress: Kohl's, $19 (clearance)</i><br />
<i>Leggings: Target, $8</i><br />
<i>Boots: N Style, $15</i><br />
<i>Earrings: Icing by Claire's, $1 (clearance)</i><br />
<i>Flower pin: vendor at<a href="http://nwaboutiqueshow.com/"> NWA Boutique Show</a>, $2</i><br />
<br />Gracie-Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12230126866417801003noreply@blogger.com1