Twenty Years

You know when you meet someone and just know that you two are meant to be?  That it is love at first sight? This is not that. When these two twenty-somethings met on May 2, 1998. TWENTY YEARS AGO today *insert "land sakes" or a "gracious me" in there* It was a not a storybook romance.  There was no meet cute. Just an "Oh, it's you." at the start of our blind date.  I might have hissed at my friend that I could not see spending a whole evening in my cute LBD with this guy as my date.  He may have insulted me because my attitude wasn't sweet but came with a bite. Sigma Kappa Spring Formal, May 2, 1998 Fast forward through that lovely movie montage of us getting married in Vegas, making a few moves around the country as we get a dog, have three kids, realize we need marriage … [Read more...]

3 Ways to Drive Safe This Spring

We often think that winter is the most hazardous of driving seasons.  That may be true with the snow, ice and sleet mess that can muck up the roadways but spring runs a close second.  That old phrase, "April showers bring May flowers." can signal heavy rain or even hail.  Not to mention that springtime signals the end to hibernation for many animals.  That's why it is important to keep these tips and bits of advice in mind when hitting the road so you can drive safe this spring. First, keep in mind that while the warmer temps make us want to get outdoors that means others are out on there too.  More pedestrians and bikes are out and about.  Stay alert and utilize your extra car features like blind spot monitoring and make sure your wipers and lights are in good working order.  Ditto for … [Read more...]

How to Make the Most Out of Your Beauty Oil

Pink Black Dots Beauty Makeup Facebook Cover by veamason Everyone knows how excess oil can be bad for beauty; it can attract dirt to your skin, cause makeup to streak and run, and give your face a less than flattering shine in photos, among many other things. It’s true that excessive oil production can complicate your beauty regimen and the way you shop for skincare products and makeup, but it’s also a mistake to believe that all oils are bad for your skin. In fact, adding oils to your skincare routine can help in regulating oil production. Yes, you heard that right: people with oily skin can benefit from using oils. Many people assume that oils automatically cause breakouts, but the truth is many oils are non-comedogenic—they neither clog pores nor cause the onset of acne. Oils are … [Read more...]

What to Wear to a Concert

  Who is ready for warm weather and outdoor concerts? Me too! Except, it is still not warm yet. Sigh. The days are cold, windy and gray.  It feels like March in mid-April and I've got two concerts in the next month that I need to find something to wear for, which leads me to these two SIMPLE looks to wear to a concert.  Guaranteed you have similar items like these in your closet too. What to Wear to a Concert: Look 1 First concert: Rick Astley.  I know it dates me but he was my all time favorite when I was about 12.  A giant poster on the bedroom wall and all.  I'll throw my vegan leather jacket over this look when the temps get cool on the way home.  Add some sparkle and you are good to go.   What to Wear to a Concert: Look 2 In May I'm off to Jack White … [Read more...]

Help Your Kids Find The Right Balance Between Sports and School

Photo credit/site https://pixabay.com/en/team-grass-cheer-field-game-sport-2444978/ There is no question about it; we are a society on the go. Parents balance careers, family, and the social lives of every member of their families. Just as parents have to balance their calendars, they must teach their children to balance theirs. Children must learn priorities, teamwork, and responsibility at a very young age. One great way to encourage these values is through sports, which teach dedication and perseverance. For families who are passionate about athletics, collecting sports memorabilia at https://www.highlandmint.com/ can be a meaningful way to celebrate their favorite teams and athletes while creating lasting memories together. Teaching kids to prioritize This may sound easy, but it … [Read more...]

The Best Black Leggings

models ofurbanculture by veamason   I love black leggings.  Particularly ones for, oh wait,  there's no real guideline here. I love Spanx type that looks like leather or just cotton.  Fabletics capri or full-length black leggings for working out or just hanging around the house?  Adore.  That's right.  And since this winter was endless and my disease makes me not want to wear anything that isn't super comfy my black leggings have been in a heavy rotation.  I've gotten creative with my black leggings. So let's talk about my favorite black leggings.  You can wear them all year round.  And yes, I truly believe that black leggings are pants especially now that the athleisure trend is so hot. In no particular order. They're all AWESOME!   Terez Black Skull Foil leggings. … [Read more...]

Easter Gift Ideas for Mom

  I am a sugar sucker.  A lover of treats. I love sweets!  And, I absolutely love Cadbury eggs.  Because I of my treatment protocol for Lyme Disease I cannot have any sugar.  I could swear. OK, I do swear because I miss those eggs so much right now.  Maybe that's why this year I actually want an Easter basket of my own. I make one for each kid.  Naturally.  I make a basket for my husband each year.  I also make one for the dog. If we have guests, I make up something small for them too.  My love language is obviously gifting.  I love to give gifts.  I never get anything in return and I don't mind.  I have my Cadbury eggs. Except for this year and I admit.  I want to see a little surprise just for me.  I cannot be alone in this!  So buy some treat for yourself- sugared or … [Read more...]

Spring, a Shopbop Sale & Everything InBetween

As I look out my window today and type this the weather is raw and rainy.  We are expecting snow tonight and everyone around me is grousing on and on about how they "just can't take one more day of winter."  I feel you. Big time. Spring is so often associated with rebirth. This past winter with me being sick and indoors for all of it has been decidedly one of the hardest times in my life.  It's been dark, people, really dark.  I've been struggling with my treatments for the Lyme disease and all three of the co-infections. My spirits have sagged to new lows with the pain these treatments cause.  The nausea all day, every day is such a highlight. I was just beginning to feel like I was turning a corner about two weeks ago and that I could see a light at the end of all this and BAM! … [Read more...]

Stylish Patio: Create Your Own Outdoor Oasis

Beautiful landscape design, soothing views, nature-inspired spaces, and cozy, chic lounge areas have become dreamy outdoor havens in modern homes. Whether you have a spacious backyard or a tiny patio, all you need to transform it into your own natural oasis is creativity. You can do this on your own or hire professional patio enclosure builders to help you out. Add some natural materials Natural materials, such as beautifully carved stone or organic wood, will create an ambiance of tranquility and serenity in your outdoor haven. While natural stone can be used for paving your patio area, warm wood hues will create a warm visual appeal. However, mixing and matching different materials, such as wood, stone, glass, metal, and rattan, will create a textured look and give it an authentic … [Read more...]

Shopbop Sale Top Picks

I love a good sale.  Who doesn't?  Especially when the spring season is about to kick off. It may still be cold and cloudy outside but my brain and closet are gearing up for warmer weather. The Shopbop Sale (details below!) is going strong right now and here are a few of my top picks to kick off the spring season.   Rebecca Minkoff Pressed Flowers Diamond Scarf. This scarf hits up that dark floral trend for spring while also nailing the use of scarves this time of year.  Consider tying it around your wrist instead of a bracelet or wrapping it around your structured bags handle too.   Robert Rodgriguez Halter Jumpsuit is a great transition piece from spring to summer.  Wear it with mules, dress it up with strappy sandals, throw on a blazer or wear it alone.  I love … [Read more...]