On my soapbox: poor and happy

At 23, moving into a brand new home wasn't the most "money-saving" decision. It's almost been a year now since I discovered my quaint little neighborhood, tucked behind old Tempe farms who had to have been there for at least 30 years. Looking back on the last year and where I was a year ago today, I must say I find myself smiling more and more these days. I can't say that my savings account has grown (more like stayed quite empty) but at least I'm happy.

I'm not one to really reflect, but after finishing school, starting my career and buying a house (leaping into adulthood) there's actually quite a bit to reflect on. Having more free time has made me realize what happiness is. When I started college I imagined my post-school life to be dedicated to the job - working for the man. I really wanted to make a name for myself so I could make a bunch of money. Although I am very dedicated to my work and am happy with the work I do, that isn't where most happiness comes from. Coming from a European background, we are about the term "working to live" versus "living to work." I work so that I can live: travel, spend time with my loved ones... make memories. Growth and reflection during this time for me has led to personal growth. I want everyone to who's stressed out with work and to sit back and think 'is this worth getting stressed out over?' It's not. Because when you get home, you're home. I've said it before and I'll say it again. Home isn't a place, its more of a state of mind.  I feel at home snuggled in my bed with my dogs. I feel at home with my family. I feel at home on the beach with my guy. Home is a state of happiness and we should all strive to find our own homes to escape to after long work days. Because it's home that will make you realize that all that stress at work isn't worth it. Right?

xoxo,

Looking Up: Lighting

When I bought my house back in October, it came with some very basic, but doable lighting. Over the last few months, I've been adding artwork to my walls and (for lack of better words) making my house a home. My lighting seems to be less fitting more and more daily. Remember this little guy?

Mi Casa #boringlamp

Well it's still here, hanging above me as I type. It's rather bland to be honest, but until now it didn't really bother me. However, I've been seeing affordable pendants and DIY lighting that makes me think this update might be an easy one. Check these out.

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This lamp, believe it or not (!) is made from those paint stirring sticks that are free at Home Depot. Are you kidding me? People are so smart. 

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This weaved lamp is actually made from a flower basket (upside down) then weaved with a sisal rope that can be found at none other than... your local Home Depot. 

This lamp would probably cost me about $20.00 to make. Tops. You likey?

But then I think, "I love DIY, but do I want to add yet another project to my DIY list?" 

-"Yes, probably."

But these West Elm lamps have really got me asking that same question over and over. 

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Ah, the classic drum pendant. This guy would offset my square table with its soft chic look. 

Well hello there pretty. I love this. With an awesome Edison bulb to pair, this one is just lovely. But I wonder, would I need two? This one seems sort of small. If that's the case, how does the electrical work?  I think the last thing I can afford is an electrician (note to self: I gotta befriend one of those). Have any of you had experience with updating and adjusting your lighting? 

xoxo

The girl who was afraid to over-accessorize

Coco Chanel always said "put on all your accessories then take one off" ...... meaning less is more.


I have always been somewhat of a minimalist when it comes to accessorizing - making sure that what I'm seen as is me versus all the bright knick-knacks I've dressed myself up in. I've seen so many women over do themselves in rings, bracelts, necklaces and on top of that tons of make-up - that's just not me. However, lately I've been seeing amazing bold jewelry take way to even the most casual outfits and frankly, I'm crying out for help!

I recently discovered Kendi Everyday, where Kendi is now doing the 30 for 30 challenge. She took 30 articles of clothing/shoes and is mixing and matching just those pieces for 30 days (I'm dying to try this). She has the most adorable (and affordable) accessories that turn her fun outfits to a complete fashion statement.  These days I rock 1 of my 3 watches, a pair of silver hoops or some gold, beaded teardrop earrings depending on my metal-of-the-day (Kinda boring....). Check out a few of Kendi's outfits that inspire me to delve into accessorizing a little better.

 I wear a watch everyday, unless I'm at the gym. Adding in cute bangles is such a good idea and I'm so nervous to take this plunge without feeling like those gaudy women that Coco told us never to be. PS that belt is so adorable.

This outfit inspires me in so many ways. It's the perfect example that you can take two naturally opposing patterns, pair them together to make an adorable summery outfit. Note the cute long necklace and simple bangles to tie it all together. I die..

This is by far my hardest but most well-loved combo: the necklace duo. So many mornings I try this but feel as if it just doesn't go together. I think I'm going to try and stop buying so many clothes (my guy will love this) and try and start making my outfits look different by mixing and matching. I'm definitely considering doing a 30 for 30 challenge because I think it will teach me to appreciate what I have in my closet and take that step to accessorize my outfit to switch it up a bit. Happy Friday!

xoxo,

How To: Rock the Boyfriend Jean

The boyfriend cut. So slub chic its not even funny. This is one particular cut, however, has been toying with me for the last few months. How do I make these work without making myself look like a shapeless soccer mom or just plain old frumpy? I purchased myself a pair of cuffed boyfriend cut jeans and have been desperate to find a cute way to mix and match them. Here's what I've discovered thus far.

1. Dress 'em up

We can't be looking like our boyfriends ladies (see point #2) but we can rock this comfortable look with a sleek blazer or flowy dressy top.

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2. Do not literally wear your boyfriends jeans - no matter how skinny cute you are. (sorry Katie Holmes - you kind of look like a dude...)

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3. Tuck it in.. with a belt

She looks so adorable in her distressed boyfriends with that tiny cute yellow belt peeping out of her shirt.

Definitely digging the color combination. Check out Bex's adorable blog here. Whatta babe. 

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 4. Be confident. (my biggest problem)

Such great looks, I'm taking notes!

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These two ladies are following the rules at their finest! Defintely going to dress to impress tomorrow (maybe post a little pic just to let you know how I did)

Do you have a pair of boyfriend jeans? How do you wear them? I'd love to hear your input!

xoxo,

Living in: A Haboob

Feels like Arizona summers are a hot topic for me these days. This morning I had the pleasure of waking up to a yard covered in a thick layer of brown dust - so thick that my dogs footprints were visible. Last night, Phoenix experienced what may have been the largest Haboob in years. What is a Haboob? you ask. Let me explain.


A "Haboob" which originates from Arabic, is defined as: a type of intense sandstorm commonly observed in arid regions throughout the world.


Picture this:

all pictures via azcentral

A mile-high cloud of dust. Gross. Today we are left with the remnants of dust in the air, debris on the ground and thousands of black swimming pools. Never in my twenty something years of life have I experienced anything of such epic proportions. So who wants to move to Phoenix? It's only 109 today!


Catch you on the otherside of the Haboob


xoxo,