Last November, I threw myself for a loop when I quit my job as an attorney. I semi-announced my departure from practicing law on social media and since then I've been asked by a ton of people why and what now.
I am not a person who handles change well. I like the status quo. I enjoy routine. I like knowing what's tomorrow, next week and next month. It terrifies me to take chances.
Practicing law was something I chose to do when I was a senior in college. I took a year off to take the LSAT and really think about whether or not I wanted to go to law school. After my year off, I happily went off to Creighton and spent three hard years in law school.
A lot of people ask me since I'm no longer practicing if I would still go to law school. My answer in unequivocally yes. Law school was damn hard, the years (& bar exams) after were so tough, but it was the best decision for me then and I think it is still a great decision for me now. Plus on top of the school/JD, I met my husband, so if for nothing else, I'd do it again.
After Adam and I moved to Colorado, practicing law was hard. I left a great job in Omaha and struggled to find that here in Denver. Eventually I found a job practicing in an area of law I'd never even studied, but it was a job and I was glad to have it. Three years later, I really found my niche in this firm. I knew what I was doing, I knew the law, I loved practicing in federal court and for the most part, I liked my job.
I grew up with a dad who loved his job every day he went to work. I didn't know that feeling. My job was good but the hard, tough days started outweighing the good. I started resenting my clients, the law, my co-workers and my day-to-day. It was a really hard place to be in because I didn't know anything else but law. This was my first real job post school. I couldn't rest on my year as a waitress, this was the career I had chosen.
Everyone kept telling me, "do anything else," "you're qualified to do a lot of things," "what do you really want to do?" "you can totally switch careers!" That is easier said than done. I've worked towards practicing law since I was 23 years old. How, at 30, can I switch all of that to start new?
For so long, I based my identify in my job, in my title. I worked damn hard for that title. There was a point I had to get too where I let go of my ego and found my identity in something else.
Late last year, my job started creating a ton of personal stress. I was frustrated, angry and annoyed. I cried at the end of a lot of days, and honestly, I was just unhappy.
I knew I had to change something, but those thoughts of "whats next" killed me. I had no idea what to do next. I spent so many hours on Indeed and Monster trying to find the motivation I needed to find a new job.
When we experienced our miscarriage last October, I knew it was time for a change and honestly I didn't really care what that change was. But, I knew that big change had to start with my job.
It was like God knew I needed a change. My brother in law reached out to me with a position in a start up he was founding and wanted me to be the Director of Content. I was going to work from home, travel to Omaha more, stop practicing law, start working in a startup and completely change the trajectory of my life.
I said yes immediately.
Then I had to tell my job. I had to give my two weeks. I had to quit a job I was completely comfortable in, even if I wasn't satisfied. It was hard, but it was such a good move for me.
It's been four months since I left. Its been a change, but its been a change I needed more than I ever knew possible. It's amazing having a job I don't dread. And past not dreading it, I actually love it. I enjoy the work I'm doing, I enjoy my co-workers, I haven't cried once and I'm starting to find my new identity.
Don't get me wrong, sometimes work gets hard, frustrating and down right hard, but being in a job you love, means I'm willing to get through those days because the next day will be even better.
Today, I'm thankful. Thankful for this new job, thankful for God's timing, thankful for a brother-in-law who believed in me enough and thankful for a husband who supported this huge life change.
I can honestly say I'm one of those people who wakes up and loves working. It took me a while to get here, but I'm so glad I'm here.
I am not a person who handles change well. I like the status quo. I enjoy routine. I like knowing what's tomorrow, next week and next month. It terrifies me to take chances.
Practicing law was something I chose to do when I was a senior in college. I took a year off to take the LSAT and really think about whether or not I wanted to go to law school. After my year off, I happily went off to Creighton and spent three hard years in law school.
A lot of people ask me since I'm no longer practicing if I would still go to law school. My answer in unequivocally yes. Law school was damn hard, the years (& bar exams) after were so tough, but it was the best decision for me then and I think it is still a great decision for me now. Plus on top of the school/JD, I met my husband, so if for nothing else, I'd do it again.
After Adam and I moved to Colorado, practicing law was hard. I left a great job in Omaha and struggled to find that here in Denver. Eventually I found a job practicing in an area of law I'd never even studied, but it was a job and I was glad to have it. Three years later, I really found my niche in this firm. I knew what I was doing, I knew the law, I loved practicing in federal court and for the most part, I liked my job.
I grew up with a dad who loved his job every day he went to work. I didn't know that feeling. My job was good but the hard, tough days started outweighing the good. I started resenting my clients, the law, my co-workers and my day-to-day. It was a really hard place to be in because I didn't know anything else but law. This was my first real job post school. I couldn't rest on my year as a waitress, this was the career I had chosen.
Everyone kept telling me, "do anything else," "you're qualified to do a lot of things," "what do you really want to do?" "you can totally switch careers!" That is easier said than done. I've worked towards practicing law since I was 23 years old. How, at 30, can I switch all of that to start new?
For so long, I based my identify in my job, in my title. I worked damn hard for that title. There was a point I had to get too where I let go of my ego and found my identity in something else.
Late last year, my job started creating a ton of personal stress. I was frustrated, angry and annoyed. I cried at the end of a lot of days, and honestly, I was just unhappy.
I knew I had to change something, but those thoughts of "whats next" killed me. I had no idea what to do next. I spent so many hours on Indeed and Monster trying to find the motivation I needed to find a new job.
When we experienced our miscarriage last October, I knew it was time for a change and honestly I didn't really care what that change was. But, I knew that big change had to start with my job.
It was like God knew I needed a change. My brother in law reached out to me with a position in a start up he was founding and wanted me to be the Director of Content. I was going to work from home, travel to Omaha more, stop practicing law, start working in a startup and completely change the trajectory of my life.
I said yes immediately.
Then I had to tell my job. I had to give my two weeks. I had to quit a job I was completely comfortable in, even if I wasn't satisfied. It was hard, but it was such a good move for me.
It's been four months since I left. Its been a change, but its been a change I needed more than I ever knew possible. It's amazing having a job I don't dread. And past not dreading it, I actually love it. I enjoy the work I'm doing, I enjoy my co-workers, I haven't cried once and I'm starting to find my new identity.
Don't get me wrong, sometimes work gets hard, frustrating and down right hard, but being in a job you love, means I'm willing to get through those days because the next day will be even better.
Today, I'm thankful. Thankful for this new job, thankful for God's timing, thankful for a brother-in-law who believed in me enough and thankful for a husband who supported this huge life change.
I can honestly say I'm one of those people who wakes up and loves working. It took me a while to get here, but I'm so glad I'm here.
Happy Friday friends! Today is a beautiful day in Denver, clear skies, 65 degrees and its officially the weekend! What the world needs now is a reminder that there is still good. A reminder that we can still be thankful for the small things even when the big things seem too big to handle.
Let's take today and every Friday to chat about the five things we're thankful for.
ONE // Mr. Rogers. I recently read something that one time Mr. Rogers received a letter from a viewer of his show who happened to be blind. She mentioned in her letter she had heard Mr. Rogers talk about his pet fish, but never heard him mentioning feeding the fish. After he received this letter and at the end of every show, he would feed his fish and say "I am now feeding my fish" so that little girl knew the fish were okay.
TWO // My family: Last weekend I had 5 whole days with my mom and dad in town and it was amazing. We shopped, ate out, went to the mountains and just enjoyed each others company. I'll never take for granted time spent with my parents.
THREE // Starbucks Decaf Peach Tea: It's the best. Add a packet of honey, grab a great book and thank me later.
FOUR // My Job: I started a new job about 4 months ago and it's one of the best things I've done for my life, my family and my sanity. Next week on the blog I'm sharing all the details of leaving the legal field and what I'm doing now.
FIVE // Group texts. Sure, sometimes the constant notifications kill me because I'm a little OCD and I hate having red 1's on my apps. But, constant communication with my best friends? Totally worth the red 1's.
Happy March! Guys, where is 2018 going. January was the slowest month of my life but February went so fast I'm pretty sure I didn't get anything done. But here we are, March, the month of flowers, hopefully more sunshine and delicious desserts.
It's no secret I love dessert. Anything with cinnamon and vanilla ice cream and I am sold. I recently had an apple crisp when Adam and I were out to dinner and it was the best thing I've ever tasted. The cold ice cream mixed with the sweet caramel-y apple was the best.
I knew I had to make it. Cue, the paleo apple crisp. While it's not as sweet as the restaurant processed sugar crisp, this one will satisfy any sweet-tooth without the guilt.
My one warning, this isn't as good the second day because it gets a little mushy. Make it and eat it all, I promise me, you'll want too!
Ingredients:
Filling:
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 5 12 cups peeled, chopped apples
Topping:
- 3/4 cups almond flour
- 1 tablespoon coconut flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- small pinch (very small!) salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
How to Make:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Mix the maple syrup, lemon juice, nutmeg and salt together in a large bowl.
- Peel and cut the apples. Place the apples in the maple syrup mixture and stir well until apples are coated. Place the apple mixture in an 8x8 glass pan.
- In a medium mixing bowl combine the almond flour, coconut flour and cinnamon. Add coconut oil, maple syrup and salt.
- Pulse the walnuts in a food processor until they are in small pieces. Stir the nuts into the topping mixture.
- Drop the topping over the apples.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes until the topping is brown and crisp and bubbling. If the nuts start to burn, cover with foil.
- Let cool, scoop out some NadaMoo vanilla ice cream and enjoy!
In an attempt to better myself and watch less TV, I've taken up listening to podcasts. I'll be completely transparent here, I was very skeptical about podcasts. Mostly becuase I'm a huge TV fan, I love it and second, what do you do when you listen to a podcast?
When I started working from home, I needed noise on in the background, but not TV. And music was getting boring because I tend to listen to the same songs over and over.
In came Podcasts. I reached out to my friends to ask for recs, I did some of my own research and I came up with quite a list. Safe to say, I'm addicted. They're perfect to listen to when you want something on, but you also need to focus on other things.
These are some of my favorites. What are you listening to?
CRIME / MYSTERY / LAW & ORDER(ISH) //
NEWS //
GIRL POWER / RELIGIOUS //
When I started working from home, I needed noise on in the background, but not TV. And music was getting boring because I tend to listen to the same songs over and over.
In came Podcasts. I reached out to my friends to ask for recs, I did some of my own research and I came up with quite a list. Safe to say, I'm addicted. They're perfect to listen to when you want something on, but you also need to focus on other things.
These are some of my favorites. What are you listening to?
CRIME / MYSTERY / LAW & ORDER(ISH) //
- Serial: It's Baltimore, 1999. Hae Min Lee, a popular high-school senior, disappears after school one day. Six weeks later detectives arrest her classmate and ex-boyfriend, Adnan Syed, for her murder.
- Up and Vanished: Season 1 of Up and Vanished explored the 2005 disappearance of beauty queen and high school teacher Tara Grinstead from her home in Ocilla, Georgia. The cold case was the largest case file in the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s history, with no arrests in 11 years.
- Someone Knows Something Season 1: (There are 4 seasons!) In 1972, five-year-old Adrien vanished while on a family fishing trip in Eastern Ontario. Despite an intensive search and investigation, no sign of Adrien was found, no clue as to where he might be. Ridgen goes back to investigate.
- S Town: John despises his Alabama town and he decided to do something about it. He asks a reporter to investigate the son of a wealthy family who’s allegedly been bragging that he got away with murder. But then someone else ends up dead, sparking a nasty feud, a hunt for hidden treasure, and an unearthing of the mysteries of one man’s life.
NEWS //
- NPR - How I built this: Guy Raz dives into the stories behind some of the world's best known companies. How I Built This weaves a narrative journey about innovators, entrepreneurs and idealists—and the movements they built.
- New York Times - The Daily: This is how the news should sound. Twenty minutes a day, five days a week, hosted by Michael Barbaro and powered by New York Times journalism.
- Closer than they appear: Who or what is in your own past right now that you need to face, but aren’t facing—and why not? Carvell Wallace talks to Americans grappling with the state of the union while trying to reconcile his own family’s fractured history. If America is an estranged family, this podcast is our awkward holiday dinner.
GIRL POWER / RELIGIOUS //
- The Messy Table With Jenn Jewell: The Messy Table Podcast is an ordinary space for real women, imperfect stories, and the God who's at work in our mess. Hosted by Jenn Jewell and partnered with Life.Church Sisters, new episodes air every other Tuesday—aiming to meet and encourage women right where they are.
- New York Times - Dear Sugars: The universe has good news for the lost, lonely and heartsick. The Sugars are here, speaking straight into your ears. Hosted by the original Sugars, Cheryl Strayed and Steve Almond, the podcast fields all your questions — no matter how deep or dark — and offers radical empathy in return.
- Call your girlfriends: Call Your Girlfriend is a podcast for long-distance besties everywhere co-hosted by Aminatou Sow and Ann Friedman, and produced by Gina Delvac. Every week, Aminatou and Ann call each other to discuss the intricacies of pop culture and the latest in politics.
- Coffee + Crumbs: It is the mission of Coffee + Crumbs to support mothers around the world through the power of shared experiences, artful storytelling, and creative community. At the core of this space, we want mothers to feel safe, known, encouraged and loved.
Have you listened to any of these podcasts? Tell me what your favorites are! I'm always looking for new recommendations!
Happy Wednesday friends!
"I'm falling so deeply in love with you." --Arie
I'm gonna be super honest here, the bachelor posts are becoming a little boring to me. I've had like 30 of you reach out for recaps and that is literally the reason I keep writing them. So one, you guys are the best! I'm obsessed with each of you. Two, these posts are going to be every other week, except the week the winner is announced.
Main reason, these posts take forever and if you've noticed, other content doesn't get posted during bachelor months because they take so long. So, my promise, the recap posts will be longer since they're only every other week and you will see more content on here!
Grab a glass of wine folks, you will need it.
Let's get recapping. First off, Florence is my most favorite place in the entire world. It's literally the prettiest. This is a reason to go on the Bachelor, an all expense paid trip to Florence.
I'm really intrigued by Becca. She had the first one-on-one date and hasn't had an alone date since. At this point, if Becca gets the rose, Arie goes to her hometown. But then he says, "We're stuck, we've missed that romantic connection." I don't think Becca feels that way. Based on her excitement she is clearly swooning.
Where are all the people? I've been to Tuscany and I've never seen it so empty. He seems very torn with Becca. He talks about finding their passion during the day, but then questioning whether it's enough to meet her parents. He seems very all over the place. It'll be interesting to see what he says about the other girls.
Jacqueline "coming to her senses" proves that she's actually thinking about how this would work in the real world. I really appreciate her openness with this. She does want to pursue a PhD and its smart for her to think of this moving forward.
I think Becca and Arie are cute together, I can see her top 2. He is still talking about his doubts with her. He has the passion but has doubts. On to the other dates.
Lauren gets another one-on-one. My thoughts, I think he likes her, but I think he's curious about her. Their last date moved a little slow and since we're moving into hometowns, its important for him to know if theres something there.
Girl drinks bachelors wine. Girl breaks up with Bachelor. Girl makes out with Bachelor. Girl makes out with bachelor more. Girl leaves. (PS the girl is Jacqueline).
Lauren is boring to me. I get its hard for her to open it and she's very open about being scared of being heartbroken, but damn girl, you just got gelato, get excited. Alright, Arie, you wanted this girl to open up, she tells you she's falling in love and you walk away. Regardless of the reason you walked away, its not very kind. OKAY -- check the quote at the top. I'd say, Arie's feelings for Lauren are stronger than the other girls thus far.
Sienne, I kind of forgot she was still here, but I love her. Her date is amazing. Looking for truffles? This is a dream date. And those pups. Arie is so awkward in his presentation of his feelings. I get that he's working through his feelings, but when he does it in front of the girl who's professing her love, it's awkward.
Sienne is telling Arie that she doesn't want their relationship to end but Arie looks like he's going to puke. He is the worst bachelor at hiding his feelings.
Group dates, the goal, get to the bachelor first so you kiss him first? I feel like this is very obvious, Bekah (the child) goes home. Tia and Kendall seem way more mature. Bekah is talking about wanting to go home to hang with her family and friends, not the best sign. Arie comforting Bekah looks like a dad comforting his daughter.
Bekah telling Arie that she facetimes her family every day, yet her Mom reported her missing.... what am I missing here? The way she talks is like a child. It's miserable.
HOMETOWNS:
Tia // Weiner, Arkansas -- I think Tia is darling and I think it's clear that she really likes him. Plus its cute that she planned a date she knew he'd love so much. Dear Arie, brothers are always the most intimidating, usually more than dads. Man up. It's her brother and probably one of the most important men in her life. My dad and I are close, but I cannot imagine sitting here with my dad telling him that I love this guy and my deepest darkest thoughts about him. It's so awkward!
Becca // Minneapolis, Minnesota -- Arie has a fur lined coat on. That's all. I LOVE caramel apples. Picking my own and dipping them in candy would be a dream. The hardest part about this would be falling in love with a guy and then him saying, "It its us in the end..." I mean when you're real life dating, you have conversations like "If we get married." Not if you and three other girls get married. UNCLE GARY, you are the real MVP here.
Lauren // Virginia Beach -- I wonder if Lauren's family is as boring as she is. I think it says a lot that Arie is the most nervous for Lauren's hometown. She's the frontrunner. Yep, they are just as awkward. Well, Arie found the way to her dad's heart, that was a very sweet moment. So, we've been watching her mom and dad say she's a tough girl who doesn't settle, knows what she wants ect... but she's been engaged TWICE before this and she's 25.
Rose Ceremony -- I don't think its fair that Kendall got to argue her feelings for Arie with Arie when the other girls didn't. That isn't very fair to any of the girls, especially Tia. Tia gathering herself before walking up to Arie was very mature of her. I really loved her.
Safe to say, Arie has a type and I unfortunately don't think Becca is the winner in this scenario.
We're almost to the end folks and I read the ultimate spoiler last night, totally on accident. Let's just say, this get's super juicy.
Every year I try to make goals instead of resolutions. Goals tend to be easier to modify, unlike resolutions which are simply broken.
This year I made a goal to read 24 books. I set out hoping for 2 books a month and so far so good! Usually I'm a sucker for "beach reads." I love anything Elin Hildebrand or Liane Mortiary, books you can read on a beach with a glass of white wine.
Lately though, I've been into these weird marriage thrillers. The perfect couple isn't what it seems, or the crazy husband. I'm addicted. They are a little more intense and a little less white wine. Regardless, they're so dang good.
I'm always posting the books I'm on Instagram and I've had a bunch of people reach out asking if they're good or if I would recommend them! Well friends, here are my reviews of 3 of my 24 books for the year. Plus one more I read right at the end of last year.
LIE TO ME BY J.T. ELLISON // This book reads sort of like Gone Girl, except so much better. There is a "perfectly married" couple, a narrator, a missing girl and a mystery. To be honest, this book took a second to get in to, but three chapters in and I was absolutely hooked. Theres a twist midway through and I never saw it coming. The characters in this book are likable but not too much, just enough that you are intrigued. But the story line causes you to hurt for them, and want the best for them. She's written a bunch of other books and I cannot wait to sink my teeth into them.
THE WIFE BETWEEN US BY GREER HENDRICKS AND SARAH PEKKANEN // My favorite book of 2018 so far. Another twist, two wives, two crazy stories and another "perfect" marriage. I told you theres a theme here! I read this book in two days, it was that good. Instead of instagramming, I was reading. I was super interested in the stories, how they read, how the writer let us get to know the characters. It was so well written, I could visualize everything.
THE COUPLE NEXT DOOR BY SHARI LAPENA // There was a lot of hype for this book. When I posted it, everyone said it was their favorite book ever! I hate to do this, but I have to disagree. While I thought this book was good, it was not great. It took me forever to get through and its a fairly short book. It's very predictable and I guessed it 50 pages in. I didn't actually like any of the characters and read their stories more out of pity than a desire to know more. However, she wrote another one, Stranger in the House and I'll totally read it because I'm a sucker.
BEHIND CLOSED DOORS BY B.A PARIS // I bought this book at an airport so my pickings were slim. But in my defense, it was on the new york time best sellers list. Plus, I've had lots of recs for it. It was the first "perfect marriage" book I read. (I finished it very early 2018 so I'm not counting it as my 24). Do not read this book. It deals with a husbands desire to punish and semi-abuse his wife only to get to her sister with downs syndrome. The only reason I continued reading was to make sure everyone got out okay. Even the reviews on Amazon talk about how sick this book is. You will see it everywhere; Target, Amazon, Barnes and Noble. It's currently sitting on the top 20 list everywhere, beware.
Currently Reading: Little Fires Everywhere // Celeste Ng
Coming up on the list:
This year I made a goal to read 24 books. I set out hoping for 2 books a month and so far so good! Usually I'm a sucker for "beach reads." I love anything Elin Hildebrand or Liane Mortiary, books you can read on a beach with a glass of white wine.
Lately though, I've been into these weird marriage thrillers. The perfect couple isn't what it seems, or the crazy husband. I'm addicted. They are a little more intense and a little less white wine. Regardless, they're so dang good.
I'm always posting the books I'm on Instagram and I've had a bunch of people reach out asking if they're good or if I would recommend them! Well friends, here are my reviews of 3 of my 24 books for the year. Plus one more I read right at the end of last year.
LIE TO ME BY J.T. ELLISON // This book reads sort of like Gone Girl, except so much better. There is a "perfectly married" couple, a narrator, a missing girl and a mystery. To be honest, this book took a second to get in to, but three chapters in and I was absolutely hooked. Theres a twist midway through and I never saw it coming. The characters in this book are likable but not too much, just enough that you are intrigued. But the story line causes you to hurt for them, and want the best for them. She's written a bunch of other books and I cannot wait to sink my teeth into them.
THE WIFE BETWEEN US BY GREER HENDRICKS AND SARAH PEKKANEN // My favorite book of 2018 so far. Another twist, two wives, two crazy stories and another "perfect" marriage. I told you theres a theme here! I read this book in two days, it was that good. Instead of instagramming, I was reading. I was super interested in the stories, how they read, how the writer let us get to know the characters. It was so well written, I could visualize everything.
THE COUPLE NEXT DOOR BY SHARI LAPENA // There was a lot of hype for this book. When I posted it, everyone said it was their favorite book ever! I hate to do this, but I have to disagree. While I thought this book was good, it was not great. It took me forever to get through and its a fairly short book. It's very predictable and I guessed it 50 pages in. I didn't actually like any of the characters and read their stories more out of pity than a desire to know more. However, she wrote another one, Stranger in the House and I'll totally read it because I'm a sucker.
BEHIND CLOSED DOORS BY B.A PARIS // I bought this book at an airport so my pickings were slim. But in my defense, it was on the new york time best sellers list. Plus, I've had lots of recs for it. It was the first "perfect marriage" book I read. (I finished it very early 2018 so I'm not counting it as my 24). Do not read this book. It deals with a husbands desire to punish and semi-abuse his wife only to get to her sister with downs syndrome. The only reason I continued reading was to make sure everyone got out okay. Even the reviews on Amazon talk about how sick this book is. You will see it everywhere; Target, Amazon, Barnes and Noble. It's currently sitting on the top 20 list everywhere, beware.
Currently Reading: Little Fires Everywhere // Celeste Ng
Coming up on the list:
- A Stranger in the House // Shari Lapena
- The woman in Cabin 10 // Ruth Ware
- We should all be feminists // Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
- The Tea Rose (and the series!) // Jennifer Donnelly
- The Nightingale // Kristin Hannah
- Woman in the Window // AJ Finn
Happy Friday friends and happy reading!
I hope you LOVE these books just like I did! I'll try to keep reviewing as I make my way through them!
PS. Send me all your recs!
How was your Valentines Day everyone? Ours was veryyyyy relaxed. Take out pizza, sweats, homemade cake. It was perfect for us, but nothing fancy. I hope regardless of relationship status it was a day celebrating people you love, yourself or just eating all the chocolate. If you didn't get enough chocolate yesterday, I have the best recipe for you today.
In the spirit of all things love, I'm sharing the things I'm especially loving this month. From the best blow-dyer (hint, Adam!) to my favorite clothes, I've got it all covered for ya.
Let's talk all the good things.
PALEO CHOCOLATE CAKE // I made this cake yesterday for valentines day and it was amazing! Everything from the cake to the frosting is paleo and everything was so dang delicious. Plus, Adam looked at me like I was a queen baker when I told him I was making a three-layer cake. You can find the recipe here!
NEW DENIM // I'm obsessed with denim. I made a goal to throw out ten pairs of jeans last weekend and I threw out two. I can't get rid of denim. I keep telling myself it will come back in trend or I'll get skinny enough again to wear my 25's from highschool. I don't discriminate jeans. I love my Old Navy jeans, my J Brands, my old school Rock n Republics. Nordstrom just debuted their new trends for denim and I'm in love. These are my favorites.
BOOKS // If you've been following on Instagram, you know I've been reading towards my goal of 24 books in one year. Tomorrow on the blog, I'm recapping the first three plus a few extras for ya. So far, my favorite, The Wife Between Us. I'm pumped to tell you all about it!
SUPERGOOP SERUM // My gf recently turned me on to this and I cannot talk about it enough. It has sunscreen in it which I love and is the best moisturizer ever. This Denver winter is kicking my butt but this stuff is saving my life. The best part, it's super moisturizing but not sticky. I hate that feeling of goop (which is surprising i love this stuff so much) but it's incredible. Get yo'self some.
Happy Thursday friends! What are you loving? Tell me! I hope you found some new stuff to add to your life that you'll love too!
Tune in tomorrow for the ultimate book review. I promise you won't want to miss it.
In the spirit of all things love, I'm sharing the things I'm especially loving this month. From the best blow-dyer (hint, Adam!) to my favorite clothes, I've got it all covered for ya.
Let's talk all the good things.
PALEO CHOCOLATE CAKE // I made this cake yesterday for valentines day and it was amazing! Everything from the cake to the frosting is paleo and everything was so dang delicious. Plus, Adam looked at me like I was a queen baker when I told him I was making a three-layer cake. You can find the recipe here!
NEW DENIM // I'm obsessed with denim. I made a goal to throw out ten pairs of jeans last weekend and I threw out two. I can't get rid of denim. I keep telling myself it will come back in trend or I'll get skinny enough again to wear my 25's from highschool. I don't discriminate jeans. I love my Old Navy jeans, my J Brands, my old school Rock n Republics. Nordstrom just debuted their new trends for denim and I'm in love. These are my favorites.
TARGET CLOTHES // If you haven't been to Target lately, you are missing out on all their incredible clothes. From work clothes to tee shirts to jackets and dresses. I'm obsessed. I've made a rule with myself to only go once a month because otherwise I'd go every day and have no money. This jacket is my favorite and today Denver is finally feeling spring-y enough to wear it.
SUPERGOOP SERUM // My gf recently turned me on to this and I cannot talk about it enough. It has sunscreen in it which I love and is the best moisturizer ever. This Denver winter is kicking my butt but this stuff is saving my life. The best part, it's super moisturizing but not sticky. I hate that feeling of goop (which is surprising i love this stuff so much) but it's incredible. Get yo'self some.
THE HARRY JOSH PRO TOOLS PRO DRYER 2000 // First off, if that isn't a big enough name for a blowdryer I don't know what is. But listen, it cuts drying time in HALF, it adjusts to your hair type, its made in France (bcuz thats important?), its lightweight and promises to last for 15 years! Hint, hint, I need this and so does my hair.
THAYERS ALCOHOL-FREE ROSE PETAL WITCH HAZEL // This stuff is my lifesaver. When I was pregnant last year I had this weird rash on my face and I tried everything. I tried stuff with chemicals in it, weird creams, nothing worked until my SIL told me about this. Now, I can't stop. The best part. I love that it helps with my breakups but doesn't dry my skin. The best stuff ever.Tune in tomorrow for the ultimate book review. I promise you won't want to miss it.
Oh hey friend, how are you? I've totally been MIA - but with good reason. Last week I spent the week in Arizona basking in sunshine, 80 degree temps and friends and family. This blog took a huge back seat. but don't worry, I'm back and so is the bachelor.
Catching up on two weeks is a lot, so we're just going to do this last weeks - plus, it's the better of the two. Last week, we said goodbye to Marikh, Maquel and Olivia. To be honest, I didn't think any of them would win, so it's kind of okay.
This week, we're in Paris! We finally got out of Florida to go somewhere awesome. And, we start the episode with Chris Harrison, where the heck has he been? I for one, wish we saw more of him.
It says a lot that Krystal knows she's going to be on the two-on-one. She knows she's hated.
Lauren's one-on-one: So, I think Lauren is darling, but she bores me and I think she's a little nutty. I've always said my dream date is having the "tour the city" date and Lauren is totally screwing it up. She's literally not speaking.
Arie's story about living with the girl who had a miscarriage and she left is so sad.
This living on the boat thing is kind of cool, but i wish I could see a tour of it to really see what it's like.
Group Date: This would be my nightmare. Dancing in a thong. I'm with Tia here. I know Arie said he didn't pick the girl based on her dancing, but Bekah was kind of perfect for that role.
Two-on-one: Oh goodness, here we go. Kendall and Krystal.
The more I see Kendall, the more I like her. Here's hoping Krystal finalllly goes home. They start off getting lost in mazes (my nightmare) and of course Krystal wins.
"The color and texture and depth of our relationship." -- Krystal. Who talks like this?! Arie clearly isn't buying this, right? And now, she talks crap about Kendall.
I think Kendall's answer re marriage was awesome. She seems much more mature.
"Destiny is going to happen today." -Krystal.
Final one-on-one: WHO IS JACQUELINE. I swear she just got on the show. The car breaking down has to be joke right? Like, ABC would never let that happen. The waiter asked her a question in french and she responded, "Si." People who don't know what language SI is, it's spanish.
Here's my thing with Jacqueline, girl go get your PhD. But asking Arie to wait 6 years for you to do that is a lot to ask.
GIRLS BYE:
Chelsea, Jenna, Krystal
Marikh, Maquel and Olivia (last week!)
We are getting super close to the end, who is your final pick?
Catching up on two weeks is a lot, so we're just going to do this last weeks - plus, it's the better of the two. Last week, we said goodbye to Marikh, Maquel and Olivia. To be honest, I didn't think any of them would win, so it's kind of okay.
This week, we're in Paris! We finally got out of Florida to go somewhere awesome. And, we start the episode with Chris Harrison, where the heck has he been? I for one, wish we saw more of him.
It says a lot that Krystal knows she's going to be on the two-on-one. She knows she's hated.
Lauren's one-on-one: So, I think Lauren is darling, but she bores me and I think she's a little nutty. I've always said my dream date is having the "tour the city" date and Lauren is totally screwing it up. She's literally not speaking.
Arie's story about living with the girl who had a miscarriage and she left is so sad.
This living on the boat thing is kind of cool, but i wish I could see a tour of it to really see what it's like.
Group Date: This would be my nightmare. Dancing in a thong. I'm with Tia here. I know Arie said he didn't pick the girl based on her dancing, but Bekah was kind of perfect for that role.
Two-on-one: Oh goodness, here we go. Kendall and Krystal.
The more I see Kendall, the more I like her. Here's hoping Krystal finalllly goes home. They start off getting lost in mazes (my nightmare) and of course Krystal wins.
"The color and texture and depth of our relationship." -- Krystal. Who talks like this?! Arie clearly isn't buying this, right? And now, she talks crap about Kendall.
I think Kendall's answer re marriage was awesome. She seems much more mature.
"Destiny is going to happen today." -Krystal.
Final one-on-one: WHO IS JACQUELINE. I swear she just got on the show. The car breaking down has to be joke right? Like, ABC would never let that happen. The waiter asked her a question in french and she responded, "Si." People who don't know what language SI is, it's spanish.
Here's my thing with Jacqueline, girl go get your PhD. But asking Arie to wait 6 years for you to do that is a lot to ask.
GIRLS BYE:
Chelsea, Jenna, Krystal
Marikh, Maquel and Olivia (last week!)
We are getting super close to the end, who is your final pick?
Well just like we all knew, the episode started with the girls chatting about Bekah's age while she swims int he pool.
"So I'll be that voice of reason, that voice of reality." --Krystal
I heard a lot of criticism about the first destination being Tahoe. South Lake Tahoe to be specific. But, I grew up going to Tahoe every single summer since I was like 8 years old and let me tell you, Tahoe is the absolute best place in the world. I would have been thrilled to be on this date. Sure, it's not an international trip, but damn, I'd take it.
Sienne's One on One Date: I think she is a doll. She's intelligent, kind and seems fun to be around. I'm hoping Arie isn't taking her on a date to send her home. The more I get to see her, the more I love her. She got the rose! Whoop! Guys, I'm obsessed with Lanco, Greatest Love Story. It's the sweetest song. You can listen to it here --> But... Arie is not a great dancer, but I will give him props for trying.
Maquel talking to her mama about her grandpa passing away was heartbreaking. I just wanted to give her a hug. That was so sad to watch, my heart breaks for her.
Krystal is such a catty little bitch. Literally all she does is talk crap about people.
"I'll drink my pee for Arie." Some blonde girl said this.
This survival date is so weird. Drinking pee, eating bugs. And then you have Krystal who is way too cool for school. Sure, I'm not gonna drink my pee, but gf get on the fun train. Kendall and Arie literally snuck away to kiss. Typical.
Can we just talk about what a bombshell Carline is? She has a one piece on and is a stunner. As I'm writing this, I'm freezing and sitting in that hot tub looks amazing. I could really use one right about now. Guys, I'm trying to pick quotes from all the girls but Krystal is just one point tonight.
"I'm not sure what I'm going to say to Arie, but whatever it is, it'll be perfect" -Krystal
So I did not think I was gong to like Chelsea. But surprisingly, I don't mind her at all. She's actually pretty cool and normal. Go Chelsea! Still, Caroline and Tia are still my favorites. They are so hilarious. When Krystal talks to Arie, she literally pouts. Is she the actual worst? There is so way Arie is buying the BS she's spilling.
"I wear my heart on my sleeve and I'm just so emotional." Krystal
"Tia is gonna speed bag her face." Caroline hahahah favorite quote of the night
Is it just me or does Krystal not blink? Like, I watch too much Lifetime drama movies about crazy girlfriends to not think she's a little crazy.
Bekah's One-On-One Date: Arie and Bekah are in the hot tub and the girls are all talking about her age. His response to her age...
Here's what I will say about age/marriage/22/life: When I was 22, I didn't want to get married. I was single, just graduated college and my focus was hanging out with my best friends, going on dates, going out and enjoying being 22 with a great metabolism. I went to law school, met Adam and all of a sudden, I turned 26 and marriage was at the top of my mind. For me, those single years of going on is what got me to "marriage age." But, I also had tons of friends who got married at 22 or younger and are still happily married and loved being married young.
I totally get where Arie is coming from, wanting to go to bed early, wanting to get up early, the older you get, the lazier you get. It's true. But, that doesn't mean Bekah isn't there and I don't think it's fair for all the other girls to tell Bekah how she should feel, is feeling or question her when she says one way or another.
But to Bekah, think clearly about what you're doing. Try to step away from bachelor land and realize that Arie does want to get married at the end of this and yes, age is just a number, but 14 years is a big number. That's all.
"I'm not here for a 22 year old girlfriend, I'm here for a wife." - Arie
No cocktail parties are the best. Like I highly doubt that a ten second conversation right before he gives a rose is going to change his mind. Plus, it adds some fun drama to the mix.
Girls Bye: Caroline, Brittany T and Maquel (for now) We'll see if he lets her back in the clubhouse.
Happy Monday friends! How are you? Denver got the most beautiful snow ever yesterday, so we spent the day doing nothing. Breakfast burritos, naps, baking. It was the most perfect lazy Sunday.
Today it's bitter cold, so cold, schools are on a delay! But to brighten your day, I'm sharing with you my favorite bloggers. This changes daily since I subscribe to so many amazing bloggers, but these are the ones I'm super pumped on. They're the ones I look for on Insta and in my inbox for new posts.
They are all bad-ass woman, kicking ass in the blog world. They're all smart, passionate, stunning, funny and I think you will love them all.
Lauren Kay Sims // Lauren is a Boulder blogger, dog mama, wife and super athlete. She just ran her first marathon! I love her sense of style and her hair. She's absolutely darling and her insta stories are the best. Her instagram is HERE!
Something Navy // Arielle is my favorite blogger. She's from NYC, has the cutest babe Ruby and is expecting her second. Her life is more than fabulous and she is so good at documenting all of it. Plus, she has an amazing line at Nordstrom. Her instagram is HERE!
Positively Posie // Whitney is my real life BFF and blogs all things motherhood, lifestyle, fashion and fitness. She's a military wife living in San Diego with her adorable babe Blakely. She shares the best beauty, fashion, kids clothes and recipes. Her instagram is HERE!
One Small Blonde // Brooke blogs about the best fashion, lifestyle and great food. She seriously has the best style and my favorite part? She's super relatable. Her Instagram makes me want to be her best friend. Her instagram is HERE!
Lifestyles by Lauren // Lauren blogs about everything. Food, beauty, great clothes. Her blog is adorable and I love all the content she posts. She lives in NYC, so obviously I'm living vicariously through her. Her instagram is HERE!
My Kind of Sweet // Suzanne is a mama to the two cutest little babes and is so fashionable while doing it! The thing I love most about her blog is she is super relatable and her clothes are everyday. Plus, her Insta stories are the best. She's always sharing stories about her family and her kids. Her instagram is HERE!
Life as a Larsen // Chandler is another amazing mom blogger who shares her marriage tips, family, and lifestyle tips. She's super honest, funny and has the cutest babe. Her instagram is HERE!
Chasing Whimsy // Mackenna is my Colorado blogger babe. Besides being absolutely stunning, she showcases the cutest clothes in the best places around Denver and Colorado. Plus, her positive attitude will make you feel better any day. Her instagram is HERE!
Dani Austin // She's newly-engaged, a huge Texas influencer and so cute and quirky. She's not afraid to show her nerdy side (she does retainer talks on insta stories) but she's an incredible blogger and encourager. She is full of faith and feels like a great friend even though we've never met. Plus, she has fabulous clothes. Her instagram is HERE!
The Darling Detail // Jessi is a stunner with the best fashion. But, she's super honest about her faith, her struggles, her life as a 20-something-year old girl. Her instagram is HERE!Happy Monday! Who's watching The Bachelor tonight? I know, I am! Bekah's age is finalllly revealed!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Social Icons