Bold Color Handbags

I am very much convinced that one thing every woman should own is a bold color handbag. Choose a color that packs a punch and draws attention. Until the last couple years I had stuck to mostly neutral or soft colors but then kind of by accident I ordered a Kate Spade handbag and when it arrived it was a bright fuschia color. I had thought when I placed the order that it was a much softer color. At first I was a little uncertain about how bold it was but I decided to keep it. There is never a time when I carry that bag that I don't receive numerous compliments. Since then I've been hooked and purchased a couple other bold color bags. This, this, and this are among my current favorites that are available. Five more of my favorites are below.

The Mini A Satchel / Tory Burch Satchel / Victoria Beckham Tote / Kate Spade Cedar Street Maise / Michael Kors Tote
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Chit Chat: Patience is a Virtue

Patience is a very important quality to possess. People who are patient are able to endure delays and troubles without acting out negatively. If you are in the checkout line at a store and a new cashier and is being very slow and making mistakes a patient person is able to keep their cool and remain calm. They do not huff and puff about the girl who has just started this job and doesn't quite know what she is doing yet. A patient person realizes that everyone needs some time to learn the ropes and remains positive in the situation.

Most of the time I think I am very patient person. When anyone including my family members aggravate me, I can usually let it slide. For example, when my brother insists on calling me by my middle name (even though he knows I do not like it), I don't get upset. Usually, I just roll my eyes and carry on. As a teacher, I think I am very patient and understanding of my students. If they need more assistance or need me to slow down, I don't mind. I want them to learn and if I need to slow down and do another example there is no harm done. When I have given the instructions to an assignment and immediately after finishing a kid says, "What are we supposed to do?" I calmly go over the instructions again.

Some days it can be very, very, extremely difficult to keep my patience with my students. On days when no one seems to be paying attention, everyone is confused, and the students are just like, "This is so stupid." On days when the directions are so simple but because it is a long problem, the students don't even want to try, it can be hard to be patient. On test day when I hand out the test and someone says, "What is this? You didn't teach us this." It can be hard to be patient. But I keep calm, remain patient, and respond in a polite and correct way. Usually, I just take a deep breath and get back to work. Then later when the kids say things like "I couldn't be a teacher, because I couldn't do what you do" I know they understand and appreciate what I do for them. And when they say things like "I learn in your class because you don't yell at us" I know it's worth it.

Most of the time being patient is easy. I can be patient because I know we all occasionally have bad days, including my students. My students are good kids. Most of them work really hard for me and being patient is an important quality for me to have to be a good role model for them.

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The Sunday Edition

This dress is just stunningly pretty, fresh, and feminine.

A must have for upcoming outdoor music festivals.

What is your opinion on hair turbans? I'm kind of smitten with them.

Eyelets and ruffles = the sweetest bikini.

Did you miss 7 Ultimate Tips For Shopping Smart.

Citrus Refreshing Fashion is my newest daily must read.

Alba is always wearing the prettiest clothes like this baby blue jacket.

Nnenna rounded up the prettiest journals.

The arrival of spring is making me crave watermelon. This Mint and Melon Salad is a must make recipe for me.

This DIY camera strap is so pretty.

8 Easy Steps to Fill in Eyebrows.

12 Habits of Productive People.

We can also be found on Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Pinterest // Bloglovin'

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On the Menu: Tomato Cheese Tortellini Soup

After working all day, who wants to come home and spend hours in the kitchen cooking? Not this girl, that's for sure. This recipe is quick and easy. It definitely took less than twenty minutes. This is a dish that definitely looks like it took a lot more time to make than it did. And let's face it, I'm not that great of a chef and even I can make this. This is a warm and delicious soup. Add in some garlic bread and a salad and you have a whole meal. I love dunking the crusty garlic bread into the soup. The soup is rich and flavorful and the cheese tortellini are so delicious! The recipe makes enough for 4-6 servings.

Ingredients

2 10.75oz cans of Tomato Soup
1 9oz bag of frozen Cheese Tortellini
1 pint of Half and Half
1 cup of Milk
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/2 teaspoon of Italian Seasoning
1/2 teaspoon of Dried Basil
Salt and Pepper to taste
optional Mozzarella for topping the bowls of soup

Instructions

1. You need two kettles. In the first you will make your frozen cheese tortellini according to the package. While the tortellini is cooking, you will put your soup, half-and-half, and milk into the other kettle warm on medium heat.
2. When the tomato soup mixture is warm add in all of the seasonings and salt and pepper to taste. Now, simmer the soup on low until the cheese tortellini is finished.
3. When the tortellini is done, drain it and add it to the soup mixture. Remove from heat, stir, and dinner is served. Top each bowl with some mozzarella, if desired.

Happy Weekend!

This has been a long week at work. I have had to stay a couple of hours late every night. Boy, am I glad that Friday has finally arrived. I plan to leave work on time and pick Tracy up. We are going to drive into town and pick up a few things to have a relaxing and crafty weekend at home. Then we will have a great dinner out, so no clean up at home required! And then pop over to see our sister Tiffany. Are you as happy to see Friday come as I am?

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Friday Favorites

How fun is this casual take on a short suit? I am ready to start wearing more florals (a springtime favorite of mine) and this blazer and short combo would be perfect weekend go to pieces. I was excited to come across this white rock candy of mine. It has been a favorite of mine since childhood. This spring and summer I think it would be a fun and festival addition to use as swizzle sticks in mixed drinks when hosting friends. Do you agree? Some more of my favorites are below.

Rock Candy / Ban.do Mini Pom Pom Flower in Cantaloupe / Bib Necklace / Ankle Wrap Sandals / Floral Print Blazer and Shorts
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The Beauty Lineup For Spring 2014

It has been a couple seasons since we have posted a beauty lineup post so I thought one was long overdue. Jessica and I have never claimed to be experts on the topic of makeup so instead I am simply sharing a list of products I have tried and love with the exception of orange lipstick which is super trendy this spring and I just may give a try.

Lipstick // This soft berry shade is a favorite of mine for spring but this bright orange would be fun for switching it up. If you are not a fan of lipstick this lip stain is a very pretty color for spring.

Perfume // I love switching up my everyday perfume and the beginning of a new season is the perfect time to make the swap. This perfume is a current favorite.

Eyes // My love of sparkle is transferring itself to metallic eye shadow, especially in particular gold.

Skincare // This light oil absorbs quickly and saves my skin which tends to dry out horribly. I searched for a long time for a sunscreen for my face that I could be happy with and I think I have finally found it. I purchased this lip conditioner on a whim and I am so thankful I did. I only apply it before bed and I have noticed the hugest difference in my lips.

Brows // I recently became obsessed with my brows and while I am still trying to totally figure out a routine for taking care of them this and this are two products I have quickly grown to love.

Glowing Skin // Nothing is a better spring beauty routine to me than glowing, dewy skin. I have found that a combination of this tinted moisturizer and this illuminator give you just that.

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Stylish for Less: Spring Dresses Under $30

The arrival of Spring and warmer weather already has me itching to put away my Winter wardrobe. Away with the heavy coats, thick sweaters, and multiple layers for warmth. I want to pull out the Spring clothes. I am ready for sun dresses and flats. Wearing dresses is so much easier when the warmer weather arrives. You don't have to throw on several layers over your dress and you don't have to freeze. In Spring I want dresses with florals, bright colors, and fun prints. I have my eye on several dresses, especially this one. I am trying to do better about my spending which is why these #stylishforless dresses under $30 are perfect for Spring. What do you think?

Peach Floral Skater Dress - Peach Shift Dress - Colorful Bird Shift Dress - Green Dress - Buttoned Green Dress - Floral Dress - Two Tone Dress - Black Bird Dress

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A Comfy Spot at Home

Every home should have a comfy spot just for you. This is a spot where you can rest and relax. You should have space and comfy cushions. In our home my comfy spot is a big green chair in the corner of our living room. I'm usually the only one who ever sits in this spot, because you can't see the tv from it. This is my comfy spot because I have plenty of light and space to sit and read. I can sit there with my cat, blanket, and a good book for hours. It's also nice that there is an end table near it to house my water or pepsi. All of the above look like wonderful comfy spots to me. What is your comfy spot?

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Sneak Attack: Dresses With Sneakers

Growing up my mom taught me that sneakers were for the gym or to be worn with jeans. I stuck to that theory until recently. Pictures like the ones above convinced me that sneakers are totally acceptable to wear with dresses and skirts. I think the slight tomboy spin the sneakers add to dresses is a fun component and a great way to make feminine outfits seem less fussy. I cannot wait for the weather to get a little warmer so I can pair comfy sneakers with flowy dresses.

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If The Shoe Fits: Keds

I haven't owned a pair of Keds since I was a kid, but recently in my search for a pair or two of casual shoes I have fallen for the cheerful colors and fun prints Keds is offering. A pair of Keds like these (my current favorites) would be great item to incorporate into any spring wardrobe. Plus, with winter finally ending I need a pair of comfy shoes for all of the time I plan to spend outside enjoying the sunshine. I also think these would make a stylish shoe to prevent blisters while vacationing. Check out more of my favorites including these (I have a soft spot for nautical prints) below.

Keds for Kate Spade Painterly Lemons / Champion Knots / Champion Bow Stripe / Champion Finches / Keds for Kate Spade Cork / Gingham Lace (more colors here) / Champion Florals
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What to Wear: Tropical Print

After the cold, dreary Winter that we have had, I am ready for clear skies and sunny days. A tropical print is the perfect to wear if you want to chase away those Winter blues and usher in some cheerful Spring. I, personally, love the colorfulness that tropical prints come in. The bold, rich colors in a tropical print are breathtaking and easily make a statement. Not up for the bright colors? You can find a great tropical print in pastels or neutrals too!
When it comes to tropical prints you really have several ways you can go with the look. You can have a great tropical print and then keep the rest of the look in neutrals. This is definitely the way to go if you aren't sure what colors to pair with your print. Also, if you just aren't sure about wearing a tropical print this is a great way to start out until you are ready to go all out with your print. The second way is to take your tropical print and pick one or two colors from it for the rest of your look. Then when you are comfortable with the tropical print paired with other bold colors, you can start mixing patterns and pair your tropical print with other patterns.
Personally, I think tropical prints are bold and beautiful. I like to let them be the focus of the look, so I pair them with neutrals and simple gold accessories. How do you wear your tropical prints?

Tropical Print Jacket - Gold Stud Earrings - Marc Jacobs Daisy Perfume - Slim Gold Crystal Bangle - Blue Nine West Pumps - Dolce and Gabbana Metallic Gold Nail Polish - Bodycon Dress

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Pucker Up: Kiss Prints

I have seen several beautiful kiss print items online and love them. At first I wasn't really a fan, but I have definitely come around. I think they are feminine, sweet, and whimsical. I am a fan of multiple color combinations with this print. Black with red and white with pink would be the typical color combinations for this. I also like the unusual color combinations like a yellow top with black kiss prints. I think I would love a skirt with a kiss print on it. Would you wear this print?

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Chit Chat: Starting Fresh This Spring

I cannot believe we already experienced the first weekend of spring. I know it is cliché but this year is passing by so fast. It seems like it was only a few days ago that I was celebrating Christmas with my family. These last three months have been almost a blur. Since going back to work right after the new year I have been going almost nonstop and at this point I am pretty exhausted. It is beginning to take its toll on me mentally, physically, and emotionally.

This winter has been a little harsh. I feel like I am working harder than ever but failing to make any progress. There is nothing more frustrating that feeling stuck, unsure of what steps to take, and basically accomplishing nothing. I have written about recognizing the need to unwind, trying to find balance, and how we need to be kinder to ourselves. While I start off really strong and try hard to stick to these goals eventually (and some of them do stick) I eventually become bogged down and totally absorbed in everything that is going on. That in addition to life not improving like I had hoped and my efforts slowly begin easing up.

Spring is about new beginnings. With the extra sunshine, the warmer weather, and the fresh air I hope to find renewed motivation to make positive changes. While there are some aspects of my life that I remain directionless on and still need some time to figure out like my career path, I can choose to try to make each day a happier experience and to focus on my well being. I can work on clearing out the junk and starting over with fresh ideas.

Instead of getting overwhelmed by the big obstacles I am going focus on small steps: getting in bed earlier a couple nights a week, exercising more often, practicing gratitude, actively paying it forward, meditating a few minutes each day, organizing my closet, and being kind to myself.

Do you have any plans to renew yourself this spring?

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The Sunday Edition

This is just the most adorable thing ever!

I definitely need this because of my obsession with all things owl.

These colors would be perfect for Spring.

Do you want to know the Beauty Secrets of the Supercool?

I totally agree with Kacie that pastels are perfection.

Stacey knows what trends I am in love with for Spring.

Sister bloggers Holly and Casey know how to provide some Spring inspiration.

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On The Menu: Corn Chowder

I love this soup and it is also one of my favorite things to serve when I have company. It is easy to make, very filling, rich and creamy, and I haven't come across anyone who hasn't liked it. My favorite way to serve it is with cornbread muffins and a couple heaping tablespoons of freshly grated cheddar on top each bowl. If you are not up to baking cornbread (but honestly it is so easy to make and just takes a few minutes to get them into the oven) a great crusty bread picked up from a bakery would be a good alternative.

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter
Extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves only
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
6 cups canned vegetable stock
2 cups heavy cream
5 cups diced potatoes, peeled and diced
6 ears corn
Salt
Black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves

Directions:
1. Heat the butter and 2 tablespoon olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and thyme. Cook until the onions just start to get soft. Add the garlic and cook until both the garlic and onions are soft.
2. Dust the vegetables with flour and stir quickly until coated.
3. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to a boil.
4. Add the cream and the potatoes. Cook until potatoes start to breakdown.
5. Add the corn kernels that have been cut from the cob to the soup.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Simmer until the corn is soft. About 12 minutes.
8. Stir in the fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon olive oil.

Happy Weekend

Are you as excited about the first weekend of spring as I am? I will be heading out of town tomorrow and attending the ballet tomorrow night. I have been looking forward to this for months. Jessica and I discovered about two years ago how much we loved the ballet and now it is something we try to get together with a few friends and attend every few months.

I live in a small town without any bakeries (probably why I bake so much) so I will also be making it a point to stop and pick up some treats this weekend as well. After I get home Sunday I have some work to catch up on.

Do you have any fun plans for the weekend?

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Friday Favorites

Yay it's Friday! Another work week is over with and the weekend is finally here! Tonight I am going to be out with my best friends to eat good food and to enjoy some great conversation. With very different work schedules it is extremely hard for the three of us to get together, so it has been a few weeks since we have been able to sit down together. Tomorrow is also going to be a busy day because I am off to the ballet with Tracy. We are going to see Snow White performed and then hopefully get in some shopping before we come home.
This week my favorites consist of things I would love to have for Spring. I am very into cute dresses and pastel colors this Spring. What are your favorites?

Nude Bunny Jumper - Lilly Pulitzer Pink North Carolina Scarf - Kate Spade Mariella Dress - Lilly Pulitzer Bow Belt - Striped Peach Top - Kate Spade Lemon KEDS - Stone Pleated Maxi Skirt

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Born Pretty

I received this notebook and pencil case from Born Pretty a few days ago. I think they are so pretty. I always carry a notepad in my bag because you just never know when inspiration will strike and you need to write down your great ideas. Along with the notepad I always have a few colorful pens in my bag and this pencil case will be perfect for them.
Born Pretty has an amazing selection of office supplies, stationery, and some of the prettiest Jewelry&Accessories. I especially love the brooches and the hair pieces in the jewelry and accessories collection. The brooches are so pretty and unique. The hair pieces are so colorful and beautiful. If you are planning to order something use the following coupon code to get 10% off: JGET10.



These products were received free for review purposes.

Spring Nail Polish Guide

Nail polish is one makeup item that I absolutely love. I just can't seem to get enough bottles of nail polish. There are just so many pretty colors that it is hard not to buy a bottle when you see a new shade that you love. This Spring I am really thinking about white, pastels, and metallic colors when it comes to my nail polish. White is such a classic, crisp color that it will surly stand out. Pastels are all about Spring and they are such subtle and feminie colors. I am always all about metallic colors. This Spring I want bold, colorful metallics. Radiant Orchid is also a nail polish color that every girl needs to own. What colors are you planning to use a lot? Below are some of my favorite options.

Essie As Gold As It Gets - Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Man by Man - Dolce and Gabbana Fuchsia - Deborah Lippmann Pseudo Silk Kimono - butter LONDON Cotton Buds - Deborah Lippmann Glitter in the Air - Burberry Beauty Rose Pink - Deborah Lippmann Flowers in Her Hair - Clinique Yellow Genius - Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Suspiria - butter LONDON HRH - Illamasqua Jo'mina

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Stylish For Less: Floral Prints Under $60

With today being the first day of spring I thought it was only appropriate to round up some of my favorite #StylishForLess florals. Fresh florals are one of my favorite spring trends that pops up every year. I wear a lot of stripes and polka dots but other than that not very many other prints. Floral prints are an easy way for me to add a lot more prints to my closet. It is also one of the first prints I began pairing with other prints (here I showed how I style florals and stripes). This baseball hat, this skirt, and satin top are among my favorites.

Floral Baseball Hat / Bikini / iPhone Case / Maxi Dress / Skirt / Satin Top / White Shift Dress / Floral Shorts / Tee
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7 Ultimate Tips For Shopping Smart

Since successfully completely a self imposed two months no shopping challenge I have spent some time reflecting on how to shop smart. I started out jotting down numerous notes which I have narrowed it down to 7 ultimate tips.

ONE // Determine what works for you. Your clothes should reflect who you are and your wardrobe should suit your coloring, personality, lifestyle, and your body shape. Take note of what styles flatter you and stay away from those that don’t.

TWO // Organize your closet and take audit. Organizing your closet allows you to take stock of what you already own. I recommend placing all dresses together, all pants together, all skirts together, etc. I have found that by organizing my closet I often rediscover previous favorite pieces that have somehow worked their way to the back of my closet and I also realize how much clothing I actually own. While organizing your closet keep two separate boxes. In one box place clothes to donate and in the other place clothes that are ripped or stained to throw away.

THREE // Plan ahead. Keep a list of the items you need to fill gaps in your closet. I also add to this list items that I really want (meaning items that I don’t necessarily need but have been wishing I had for a while).

FOUR // Know when to splurge. Build the majority of your wardrobe around high quality, investment pieces (even if you have to do it slowly). When something seems very expensive for my budget I ask myself what the cost per wear would be. A pricey item that I would wear over and over and for years is a better purchase than a poor quality item that I only get a couple wears out of.

FIVE // Set a budget. Trends are fun. Instead of advocating skipping all trends I tend to set a strict budget for them and purchase a few items every season in the trends that look good on me.

SIX // Try clothes on. I cannot tell you how many times I have purchased items that end up just sitting in my closet with the tags still on them simply because they do not fit me correctly or are not flattering. Typically once something makes it into my house it does not get returned. Try items on in the store before purchasing them. If you are ordering online as soon as the package arrives try everything on and if you are not satisfied immediately repackage to return.

SEVEN // Think about the item before purchasing it. Consider outfits. How does this item fit into what you already own? How many different ways can you picture styling this outfit? How many different situations can you picture this item being useful? If you can only picture one way to incorporate this item in your wardrobe it likely isn’t a good purchase.

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Playmates: Game Night

Who doesn't love a good game night with the family or with friends? Some good snacks and friendly competition can make for a fantastic evening. Not to mention how hilarious it can become when you make a blunder in the game. I love board games. I think they are a great way to bring a group of people together and have fun. Even if not all the guest know each other that well after an evening of playing board games everyone knows each other a lot better.
In college, the girls in my dorm room and I would host a weekly board game night. We had a group of regular people who almost always came and a few new people almost every night. We would order pizza and have a blast. Sometimes we provided the games and sometimes they brought their favorites. Even now, I love having my friends over to play board games sometimes. Or getting the family to agree to a game night is always hilarious.
I have to say that I love scrabble, but no one in my family will play with me! They are horrible spellers. But I also love games like Taboo and Cranium were you can work together with a team. Below are some of my favorite games. What's your favorite board game?

Scrabble Crossword Game - The Game of Life Board Game - Cranium - Scattergories Game - Ticket To Ride - Europe - 5 Second Rule - Just Spit it Out!

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