To be better

Lately I have been thinking of ways to do better for myself, Sloan, Kevin, etc...
Its easy to get so wrapped in the day to day living, ignoring that little voice or neglecting your inner self. I am a huge believer in that if you take care of yourself, the changes and good things will trickle down to other aspects of your life and in turn make those things, the important things in your life (Sloan, Kevin, Family, work) better! However, I've really never applied it to my life. Why? oh who knows.... I've noticed that I have a hard time doing for myself without this weight of guilt or asking myself "do I deserve this"? I am working hard to retrain my mind, my inner self to just say "YES, you do"! Not to excess of course, but to the little things that don't even cost money, more like time. For example, I went to yoga this morning then for a wonderful run in the sun, nice cool breeze. To many, this might seem like a no-brainer but for me, it's an exercise for the soul. Not only to better me physically but mentally, emotionally.

So, how am I challenging myself to do better? I have a little helper, she is meeting with me (so far) once a month, but with weekly "check ins" and helping me come up with a work out plan, how to incorporate creative workout sessions with my work / life schedule and motivates me to meet my goals. Small steps of course. Its not all about the physical workouts, but also (for example) dressing outside my "box". For those who know me well, and see me on a regular basis, you are familiar with my wardrobe. Grey! I love it, its cozy, and very practical. It matches everything! In very small steps I am trying to add perhaps jewelry, embellishments....I got a very cute top at Kohl's this weekend that I wore out on a date with Kevin. It was grey, HOWEVER it did have some embellishments. Picture somewhere on here. I wore it with some dark jeans and some Vera Wang ballet flats. I even wore some makeup....look out world, here I come. I must admit, I did feel very pretty and we had fun just spending time with each other.

I will continue to share some of my journey...some parts are harder than others, but I am willing and able to take on the challenge to change, after all, it is for the better!

new favorite things

I love reading about what others favorite things are, it's like a sneak peak into their diary but with permission! Here are some of my recent favorites. All is well here in Waco, today was such a gorgeous day outside, windows were rolled down and coffee was enjoyed on a porch swing!

So here we go, in no random order!

1. TK100 North Face Fleece-1/2 zip pullover, I take it everywhere I go. Its great for chilly restaurants, theaters or just to lounge in at the house. Its 55$, one of the best investments I've made. With each wash, it gets softer and softer. Made in Philippines-for J'lyn

2. Bag Balm- I read about this product in a fashion magazine and Jessica Alba just couldn't live without it, and if she can't....neither can I. It can be found at your local drug emporium for roughly 6$. A little goes a LONG WAY. I use it on my lips, cuticles, feet and elbows. The smell is ok, but the moisturizing that occurs definitely outweighs the medicinal odor. Made in New Hampshire

3. Smart wool socks- talk about cozy, you'll never go back to cotton again. These socks not only give your dogs a nice gentle but firm hug all day long, but are super cute as well. They range from 14$-28$ depending on style. I know that sounds pricey but, well worth it! I'm pretty sure they are made down under

4. Camellia flower- never heard of this flower before reading a MUST READ,

The Elegance of the Hedgehog. It plays a small role in the book and I googled what this flower looked like and fell in love with its beauty. I might have to go to Lowes and see if they carry them, or at least the seeds.

5. Apron skirt from Old Navy in the color of "flax". There are an assortment of colors, but this one is most natural and pretty much matches everything! I wore it today actually with a baby blue shirt from American Apparel and a beige cardigan from The Gap with sanuks. I felt very comfortable and cute! Retails for $24.50 but will probably go on sale soon!

6. etsy.com- a great place to shop for unique, one of a kind hand made items. Lots of items from jewelry, photography, hair accessories (my favorite place to go), and more! Take a few minutes to explore and support the little guys!

7. The Elegance of the Hedgehog- I mentioned it above, one of the best books I have read in a long time. Its a fast read and guaranteed an assortment of emotions. It costs 14$ at Target or your local bookstore. I promise you'll love it!

8. Americano- On the mornings that I go to Starbucks before work for a special treat I always get the Americano. A venti Americano to be exact. For those who don't know what this is, its only espresso and water, that is it. Simple, raw, and delicious. No cream, no sugar just pure bliss. This drink takes control of so many senses...from the feel of the warm liquid hitting my mouth and my hands around the warm cup, to the taste of smooth, rich coffee and the smell of heaven. I dare you to try one!