I am a thirty-something Momma of four, my youngest a fifth grader and my oldest a freshman at the University of Missouri (#wheredoesthetimego). My family and I live outside of a very small community in central Illinois where my husband and I run home-based businesses. We travel often, both for work and pleasure. My love for fashion (and all things pretty) has created an addiction to Pinterest and the following of many amazingly fashionable lady’s blogs. It has become apparent to me that there is not much out there on the web for what I would consider the ‘average momma.’ Is this because as moms a lot of us share the fairytale of living a chic life where there are no mundane chores, mouths to feed and a constant feeling that there is not enough time in the day to get it all accomplished? Do we want to live vicariously through these ladies or are there other women out there like myself that would like examples of moms that are able to rock being a mom (as well as sometimes struggle with it) and have a piece of that stylish fairytale at the same time?
The idea of starting my own blog – one that is directed towards the average momma, one that is able to create well put together, stylish outfits that are not made up of designer duds that most of us can’t afford or are not willing to spend the money on, one that depicts a momma that is doing her best to live (and share with you) a real mom-life in as fashionable a way as is realistic – has been growing in the back of my head for some time. There are many days that my only outing is to a volleyball or basketball game, or even more exciting, the grocery store! Often times I will hear things like “You look like a Pinterest picture” or “You always dress so cute, I wish I had your style.” I used to feel self-conscious, that this was code for “You overdressed” and people probably thought I was ridiculous for doing so. But since, I have embraced the fact that this is who I am. When I take the time to put together a stylish outfit I am more confident in all that I do. I am a better mother and a better wife and I like that version of myself and believe that it is in everyone around me’s best interest. So if any of this resonates with you I hope you will join me in this ride and that I am able to bring a little more joy to your life in the process!
A little more about me…
I am originally from the beautiful state of Oregon. My father joined the military when I was just a few months old and we spent the next ten years changing duty stations every few years. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to travel and experience parts of the world that I would have not been afforded the opportunity otherwise. This background is likely the reason that I am deeply patriotic (like, I feel a lump form in my throat every time I hear our national anthem). I am beyond grateful to the service men and women, and their families, for the sacrifices that they have made and continue to make to allow us the freedoms that are often taken for granted.
I was introduced to showing livestock through 4H and FFA at ten years of age (#thanksmomanddad) and my experience with these organizations have undoubtedly shaped the person that I am today. I know that many don’t know what these organizations can offer our youth, but I would recommend to anyone looking for an avenue to teach their kids the value of work, dedication, time management, respect… (the list goes on) that they look into these organizations.
My BFF from childhood still lives in Oregon. We only see each other once or twice a year and when we do we have the most epic shopping day that starts early and doesn’t put us home until far past my normal bedtime. It is a day I look forward to all year long. Even with our physical distance I am comforted knowing that she is my rock and no matter what, if I need her she will be here. Love knows no distance.
I LOVE flea markets – the hunt for hidden gems amongst all the rubbage! For me, the drive to a flea market is similar to the feeling I had as a kid waking up on Christmas morning. I have many furniture pieces in my home that are transformations from junky pieces found at flea markets. Transforming the pieces is emotionally rewarding and fulfills my need to be creative.
And last, but certainly not least, I am married to the most amazing husband. He is hard working and smart, a present and interactive father, encouraging and supportive. He is my best friend and my biggest cheerleader. My children are growing up in a home full of love and support. My sons know how a woman should be treated and my daughters know that they don’t need to settle for being treated any way other than with respect and love. I am #oneluckylady
