How to Make the Most of This Christmas Season

This past weekend my family decided to trade in the turkey and pumpkins for red and green. We (okay, my husband) dug through the attic and pulled out box after box labeled "Christmas". If it weren't for the excitement of three little kids waiting anxiously downstairs, the sea of green tubs that filled our bonus room might have made the merriest of person feel like the Grinch!  

While we began sorting through the bins of tree bulbs and bows, I noticed my youngest daughter playing with a string of lights. As she sat there, with the little twinkles glowing around her tiny silhouette, I couldn't help but stop. I wanted to capture that sweet moment and lock it away in my memory bank forever. 

I pulled out my camera and not only snapped a few pictures, but found myself joining in. My other daughter, not wanting to miss a minute of the fun, quickly jumped in and we shared giggles, a few shameless selfies, and I was a K I D again (if only for a brief moment). 

  

It was in that moment that I realized, what could have been an annual holiday chore, immediately turned into something so much more special. A memory was made and we were enjoying what was the start of one of my favorite times of the year. 

It also made me wonder, have we lost the true joy in the season? Are we more worried about whether our tree meets par to the neighbors? Or about snagging that next new "thing", that we're willing to risk our dignity, and a limb or two, just to save a few bucks on "stuff" that will quickly be yesterday's news?

When I replay the reel of holiday memories from my childhood, they are filled with frozen sled-rides in the backyard... a living room filled with family elbow to elbow... and a house my father decked like the Griswolds (truth...almost). I have these memories because my parents did something that I will forever cherish, they took the time to invest in making the most of the Christmas season. 

As we look ahead to this Christmas season my hope is that you will not be anxious about your growing to-do list, or how many miles will be logged on the minivan, and whether or not the little lights are twinkling (I know, Art. Thanks for noticing). 

And when it comes time for gifts, be intentional about the gifts you give. Don't simply give a gift that will quickly be forgotten or thrown away, but give something that will...

Make memories for a lifetime
Help someone reach a goal
Bring laughter and fun to the family
Allow someone to dream again
Be shared among friends

'Tis the season to make some memories! 

My Top 4 Fall Fashion Must-Haves

Photo cred: yours truly (my simple casual work outfit)

Fall is definitely one of my favorite seasons for fashion! I am a huge fan of layering and the cooler temps lend themselves perfectly to it! And as my good friend would say, it's like wrapping yourself up into one big bundle of fall.

Now, before I dive head first into the world of "don't wear black with brown", let me preface by saying I am NOT A FASHION EXPERT and many days the sweatpants win in the battle between fashion and comfort.... but I do love finding ways to bring peace between the two. It's amazing how much confidence you gain when you dress in an outfit you feel pretty in!

And fashion doesn't have to be expensive! I'm a pro at bargain hunting and find most of my items on clearance at my go to stores of choice.

Here are my top closet must-haves for this fall:

• Scarves - The blanket scarf has become my personal favorite. Take the ends, wrap them round once, and let it be big and beautiful.

 Photo cred: Pinterest

• Cardigans / Blazers - These go with everything and if you haven't tried one lately, they are so comfy! The majority of my outfits incorporate layering a cardigan or blazer in some way. 
• My personal favorites are the draped or cocoon cardigans. These are a little more trendy than the straight cardigan and can be found in almost any store. 
• Blazers are a great way to add structure to an outfit without taking away your edge. 

Photo cred: American Eagle and Gap
• Ankle Boots and Booties - Everyone needs at least one great pair. I prefer a  neutral color ankle boot as they are more versatile and can dress up a pair of jeans with little effort. 
• Bootie tip: loosely roll your jeans just above the boot - it's much more flattering than tucking into the boot.

Photo cred: Pinterest

• Skinny Jeans - Yes! These CAN be comfortable if you find the right fit. Look for those that have stretch in the material (most do) and are just long enough for a small cuff or roll. If you're looking to keep it casual, but still office appropriate, a well fitted dark skinny jean is your best friend. Throw them on with your tan heel booties, layered with a cardigan, and you'll feel like a million bucks. 

Photo cred: American Eagle

There you have it! Have fun mixing up your own outfits with these 4 basics. Don't over complicate it, just go with what YOU like and makes you feel like the hippest mom on the block. See you out there you inner fashionista's!