Fab Finds Friday: Head Over Heels

Happy Friday everyone!  

The month of March is upon us and I couldn't be happier to welcome spring.  What better way to kick off a new month and the spring season than with new heels.  You know you need some standouts to pair with your pastel dresses and skirts.  To make it easier for you I've pulled together some of my faves!  There are a few that I've had my eye on for a while (for example, these gorgeous Peep Toe Shoeties and these Coral Wedges) and some that I've recently discovered (obsessed with these & these.  I tried to limit my selection to shoes under $100 but I couldn't resist sharing these J.Crew  Shimmer Linen Pumps & these Kate Spade Bow Pumps with you.  I mean, how amazing are those?!  I will be watching the J. Crew ones like a hawk to see if they ever go on sale.

Happy shopping ladies!  Let me know if you indulge in any of these. (I'll be super jealous!)

Playground Rules for Grown-up Girls

Today I'm thrilled to be linking up with a couple of blogging rookies like myself!

I'd like to introduce you to my friend Allie (on the right).  Allie and her best friend Tegan recently launched their blog, Shecago.  (Isn' that name great?  If you couldn't already tell they live in Chicago.)  

When Allie and I were planning this first blog share we decided the perfect topic would be friendships.   

I've found that once you become a mom it can be even more difficult to keep your adult friendships.  Unfortunately I know first-hand.  You really have to work hard to maintain those relationships.  Whether you're a mother or not there are certain "rules" you should follow that will help you play nice.   

{{After you read these make sure you click over to Allie & Tegan's blog Shecago for their rules!}}   

1. Time is of the essence, make sure you spend it wisely.  Basically, when you actually have time to spend with your friends make sure you’re with the people who matter and that you’re 100% there.  It’s so easy for moms to have their minds elsewhere, like worrying for their kids. Put the phone down, focus on the person you're with, and make use of the time you have.

 

2. Don't compare yourself to anyone but yourself.  One of the great things about friendships is inspiring one another.  Just make sure that doesn't cross over to comparison because there's a fine line between the two.  Perhaps your best friend has no kids and hours to spend at the gym.  That doesn't mean you have to give yourself a hard time for working out twice (ok maybe once) a week.  We each have our own paths in life, make yours your own.  Jealousy ruins so many friendships.

3. When planning time with friends, set a date and stick to it!  I am 90% more likely to follow through with plans when we pick a date and put it on our calendars.  You truly have to MAKE time!

4. Be open & honest.  When you’re having a bad day don’t be afraid to share it with your friends.  It’s much better than holding it all in and unleashing on them later.  Whether they’ve been in the same situation before or not, your true friends will be there to lend an ear.  And if you're on the receiving end of your friend's rant all you have to do is listen to her.  You don't have to solve anything, just let her vent.   

5. Last but not least and my favorite of them all - enjoy a girls’ night out once a month!  It’s healthy for you to get away and have your girl time every now and then.  You deserve it!

We hope you enjoyed our first blog-share!  Thanks to Allie for setting this up and supporting me and my little blog.  Allie and I both cheered for the Jags but during different seasons.  While we haven't spent too much time together we have so many mutual friends that I consider her a friend.  She has such an upbeat personality and is uber creative.  (Example, that blog name!  Genius!)  Allie is also a wonderful photographer and has this dry sense of humor that I can totally relate to.  Allie & Tegan cover everything from fashion to home decor to food on their blog and I'm excited to begin working with them.  This will be the first of many blog-shares to come.  Make sure you follow them to keep up with their Shecago shenanigans!

Linking up with Bethany and Meghan for Three-fer Thursday!

Jane Must Haves!

There are so many great items on Jane today that I had to share before they sell out!  You know the pearl cluster necklace that I LOVE and wear all the time?  They have a similar one for only $16.99!  Check that out and my other favorites below!

Pearl Necklace

Stripes Ahoy Tee

Peony Bloom Infinity Scarf

Double Lined Tunics

Daddy & Me Matching Ties

I mean, really?  So cute!

French Terry Hi Lo

This is available in 11 colors!

Crystal Cluster Statement Necklace

Only $7.99!

Ella Tunic Tee

Circle Vine Monogram



Workout Wednesday: Favorite Cardio Songs

First, let me start by apologizing for not having any styled posts this week.  I had a couple of outfits that I shot pictures in last week and I just wasn't feeling them.  If I'm not 110% into something I would rather not waste your time (or mine) with it.  Nonetheless, I hope this week's posts are still valuable to you.  I think you're going to enjoy tomorrow's.  I've been working on it with a fellow rookie blogger friend of mine and we're thrilled to kick off our collaboration!  

I'm also working with a local Jacksonville boutique for a post next week so stay tuned.  Lots of fun stuff happening around these parts! 

Now, on to Workout Wednesday!  

Anyone who knows me well knows how much I love music.  And I have a confession - I love rap and hip-hop.  I appreciate the rhythm and how it makes me want to get up and go (or punch someone in the face, ha)!  That's why it's my go-to genre for working out.  Which songs do you like to listen to during your workouts?  

I thought it would be fun to share some of my favorites with you.  I tried to come up with a list of songs from different genres, so here you go!   

Happy by Pharrell

My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark by Fallout Boy

Turn Down For What by DJ Snake & Lil Jon

Sweet Nothing by Calvin Harris ft. Florence Welch

Dark Horse by Katy Perry ft. Juicy J

Right Above It by Lil Wayne ft. Drake

Dog Days Are Over by Florence + The Machine

I Can Only Imagine by David Guetta ft. Chris Brown & Lil Wayne

Let's Go by Calvin Harris ft. Ne-Yo

Otis by Jay-Z & Kanye West ft. Otis Redding

Moment 4 Life by Nicki Minaj & Drake

Sail by AWOLNATION

Work Out by J. Cole

Just Fine (remix) by Mary J. Blige ft. Lil Wayne

Linking up with Shanna for Random Wednesday!

Inspiring Instagrammers You Should Follow

Do you love Instagram like I do?  

I find myself spending much more time on Instagram rather than Facebook these days.  It's more streamlined, which I love.  I can enjoy pictures without clutter: no ads, no play-by-play of life from the same people, no "suggested friends", you get the idea.  I love seeing snapshots from inspiring people & companies I admire.  There are a handful that I always stay up-to-date on because they're THAT good.  Each of these accounts inspire me in different ways: fashion, faith, family, and many more.  Make sure you check each of these out and follow along with me!

@shopdandy

My dear friend Danielle is a huge sensation on Instagram.  So many women turn to her account for daily outfit inspirations and uplifting posts, myself included!  She has this wonderful way of pairing classic pieces like Louis Vuitton and Celine handbags with affordable, trendy items from ASOS, Dorothy Perkins & Target.  I promise she will not let you down! (Side note: Danielle has already helped me tremendously with my blogging and I am so grateful for her thoughtfulness and guidance!)

{{Visit Danielle's blog at www.justdandy.org}}

Dreaming in Pink...

One || Two || Three || Four || Five ||

Six || Seven || Eight || Nine || Ten || Eleven ||

Hello friends,

Mondays can be so meh, you know?  Brighten up your day with these pink beauties I've been craving.  I love adding pops of color with my accessories and I've eyeing these Minkoffs for a while.  And who doesn't love those Valentino's?  I know I will never invest in a pair but they're fun to drool over.  I added some more below.

  How are you going to add pink to your wardrobe this spring? 

Fab Finds Friday: 10 Affordable Beauty Products to Try!

Happy Friday friends!

I apologize for the late post today.  I was able to attend the ROAR (Jacksonville Jaguar cheerleaders) annual banquet last night.  It was so fun to be able to attend one more, this time to honor my sister and cousin who cheered their last seasons.  Unfortunately I stayed up way too late but lucky for me Josh is working from home today so he let me sleep in.  He's the best!

Anyways, I'm excited about my fab finds for you today.  I always love finding great beauty products that are affordably priced.  What's even better is each of these products can be purchased at Target!  I have every one of them in my possession right now and keep going back for more.  I have to admit there are some things that I splurge on like foundation and eyeshadow but other things that I love saving on, like mascara.  I bet many of you didn't realize that the drugstore brands actually own many of the expensive brands you find at Sephora and department stores.  For example, did you know that L'Oreal owns Kiehl's, Shu Uemura, & Lancome? (See link here for more examples.)  Why not give some of these a try next time you're out shopping?  If you do, let me know how you like them!

1) Nexxus Hairspray 

This is my favorite hair spray.  It leaves your hair touchable and not stiff.

2) Essie Nail Polish

I've lost count of how many Essie polishes I have.  The three I wear the most are Sand Tropez, Muchi Muchi, & Mint Candy Apple.

3) EOS Lip Balm

Did you know most lip balms contain chemicals that actually dry out your lips?  This one doesn't which is why I love it!  Honeysuckle is my favorite one.

4) Organix Moroccan Argan Oil

This argan oil is just as effective as the expensive brands. I love it!

5) Aveeno Positively Radiant Moisturizer

I use this moisturizer every day and have for years.  I love that it has SPF and gives my face a little glow.

6) Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

Y'all I am not lying when I tell you this stuff is amazing.  It will dry your nails in 5 minutes, tops!  It's the only way I can have polish on my nails.

7) Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm

I have the color "Elusive" in this balm and it's a great everyday color.  I like the matte effect and it stays on well.

8) Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids Lipcolor

I love this lipstick in Pink Pop (as seen here with my pink Valentine's outfit)!  The consistency is smooth and the color stays on well.  Sometimes I put Nars Dolce Vita on top to tone down the pink for work. 

9) L'Oreal Voluminous Butterfly Mascara

I'm a big fan of this mascara from L'Oreal.  I have a hard time finding mascara that 1) I'm not allergic to & 2) lengthen and thicken my lashes.  This fits the bill!  I really like the wand because it reaches those lashes on the end and inner corner of your eye.

10) Revlon Colorstay Eyeliner

This eyeliner is my go-to for every day wear.  It's typically sold out in black at Target so if you see it, grab it!

Life Lessons For My 15-Year-Old Self

Do you ever stop and reflect on how far you've come and how much you've changed through the years?  I do.  I can remember how it felt to be 15 in high school wondering where I fit in.  Who were my friends?  Who was I?  What kind of person did I want to be?    

Sometimes I wonder what I would tell myself if I could go back in time.  What advice would I give myself to avoid being hurt and to avoid hurting others?  While I don't regret the decisions I've made I know I could have benefited from these life lessons.

Pinterest

1.  Think before you speak.  

You will put your foot in your mouth more times than you can remember. 

Words can cut like a knife, be careful with how you use them.

3 Ways to Wear: Striped Pants

Hi friends!  I hope your week is going well so far.  Mine has been kind of meh so here's hoping for a productive day!

Mommy Style: Kid-Friendly Springtime Accessories

Good morning friends!

Are you following The Heathered Life on Facebook?  If not, you should be!  Yesterday my friend Meg asked a great question on the Facebook page.  She was wondering what kind of accessories she should wear that are both stylish & colorful as well as kid-friendly.  I'm sure all of you mommies can relate to having your favorite necklaces chewed on and earrings tugged on, right?  Well, why not wear necklaces that are made for teething?  You could even substitute your necklace for a lightweight scarf - that's what I do often!  And choose colorful studs over large earrings that hang down.

TOMS are Back at Zulily!

Hello friends!  I'm so excited to let you know that TOMS will be back on Zulily THIS WEDNESDAY!  If you haven't experienced the TOMS sale on Zulily before you should set your alarm clock NOW.  These shoes sell very quickly!  Also, make sure you go ahead and create an account now to save you time on Wednesday.  

See the links below, happy shopping!

Create your account here:  TOMS One for One 

Shop the sale here:

TOMS kids sale + Free Shipping on orders of $65+ at zulily from 6am PT on 2/19 to 6am PT on 2/22 

TOMS women's sale + Free Shipping on orders of $65+ at zulily from 6am PT on 2/19 to 6am PT on 2/22 

TOMS men's sale + Free Shipping on orders of $65+ at zulily from 6am PT on 2/19 to 6am PT on 2/22 

Go for the Gold

Skirt, Modcloth (sold out, similar & adorable!) || Shirt, Forever 21 (sold out, similar) ||

Scarf, Target (sold out, similar, love this) || Belt, Target (love this one) ||

Shoes, Jessica Simpson (old, similar and on sale!, love these) || Earrings, old (similar) ||

Bag (see below), Tory Burch ||  Bracelets, Bourbon & Boweties and Brina Box ||

Watch, Michael Kors || Nails, OPI Cajun Shrimp || Lips, Nars Dolce Vita

Fab Finds Friday: Spring Styles under $25!

Happy Valentine's Day friends!

Today's got me feeling all lovey-dovey for you, my readers!  Thank you for the support, comments, encouragement I've already received in just three weeks blogging.  It means so much to me and makes this adventure even more fun than it already is.

As my gift to you I've pulled together some fabulous spring finds all under $25!  These come from two of my favorite sites - Groopdealz & Jane.  Once you register your email with them you'll be able to shop their very, very low prices.  Just make sure you act fast because the deals end soon and sell out quickly.  Who remembers the birthday sign I used for Graham's party?  Well, it's back on Jane.com!  Get it before it's gone!

So without further ado, here are my spring steals for you:

Groopdealz Printed Fit & Flair Dress

8 Tips for a Happy Marriage




May 17, 2008

 

Happy Valentine's Day Eve!

With the day of love approaching tomorrow I thought it would be fun to offer some unsolicited advice from me and my husband.  We came up with this list based on our own experiences and what has helped us.  Marriage isn't easy, you constantly have to work at it.  Hopefully this list makes it a little less difficult for you and your significant other.  The 8 tips are arranged in no significant order except the last one - it's the one piece of advice we offer the most!

          1) Get involved in a church.

• Me: It's important to have your spiritual life in order to maintain a healthy emotional life.
• Josh: Getting plugged into a church gives your marriage a solid foundation.

          2) Learn your spouse's love language.

• Me: We studied "The 5 Love Languages" for our premarital counseling and it was beneficial to discover that we have very different love languages.
• Josh: Knowing not only how to show affection but how your spouse wants to give affection is good to know.

          3) Go to bed at the same time.

• Me: This one's pretty straightforward!
• Josh: Most of the time this means I fall asleep on the couch then she wakes me up to go to bed.

          4) Remember you were a wife/husband first and mom/dad second.

• Me: This advice was given to me by our Sunday School teacher and it's so true! Once the kids grow up and move out your spouse will still be there.  It's important to nourish that relationship just as much as the one with your kids.
• Josh: It's easy to lose sight of your relationship with your spouse when you start to have kids. Neglecting your relationship with your spouse will only grow you further apart.

          5) Pray together.

• Me: There is so much power in prayer!  What better way to keep your foundation solid than to be in constant communication with the Savior.  
• Josh: Praying not only for each other but for others helps keep you both humble and compassionate.

          6) Write each other letters.

• Me: I love the sincerity of a handwritten letter.   
• Josh: It's a good way to record and memorialize your relationship through the years.

          7) Support each other's interests and goals.

• Me: I am so thankful for the support Josh gave me when I cheered in the NFL.  It would have been easy for him to encourage me to not do it and spend more time with him but he knew how much it meant to me.
• Josh:  Heather supports me by giving me time to announce basketball games for UNF.  I am very appreciative of that because I know how hard it is for her with Graham.

Gentlemen might need to sit down for this one...

          8) Create a separate shopping account for your wife.

• Me: This has really helped us so much!  It was difficult for me to be able to keep track of my portion of the budget when all of our money was in one account.  By separating my discretionary money into my own account I can ensure that I stay within budget.  (Keep in mind we still have a joint account that everything comes out of.  This is just my portion of the budget.)
• Josh: Establishing a threshold is good for both sides as the husband knows in advance how much damage will be done.  It also gives the wife her freedom but boundaries to work within. 

So that's our list!  What do you think?  Is there anything you would add or remove?  

We hope you enjoy your Valentine's and many years of wedded bliss!

Workout Wednesday: All About Abs!

We're halfway through the week y'all!  You know what that means - Workout Wednesday!

Today I want to focus on the body part I know many of you worry about the most: abs.  First of all, it's true what they say about abs.  They're made in the kitchen.  You cannot crunch your way to six-pack abs.  Diet and cardio are crucial for a flat, well-defined stomach.  You want to make sure you're burning that layer of fat that's hanging out on top of your chiseled abs.  (We all know they're in there somewhere, right?)  Combine your clean diet and cardio with this ab routine and you're on your way to bikini abs!

Spring is right around the corner which means bikini season isn't too far away.  If you want to improve your figure for the warm weather you need to start now in the cold weather!  Seriously, quit procrastinating!  Change isn't going to happen over night or the week before your beach vacation. (Which totally reminds me of college when every sorority girl started working out daily the week before spring break.  Really ladies?)  You need to start NOW. 

So here's some motivation for you: BIKINI'S!  Scroll through these then get back to crunching. 

Nordstrom Two-Piece Swimwear · shopbop.com Two-Piece Swimwear · Red Carter Two-Piece Swimwear

Linking up with Shanna for Random Wednesday

 

Free Dresses for a Year!

I have some news that will make your day so much better!

Lulu's is giving one lucky lady and her friend free dresses for ONE YEAR!  If you aren't familiar with Lulu's you should definitely check it out.  It's one of my favorite sites to shop for adorable dresses and shoes. Just check out these beauties: Love this dress, need these shoes, adore this maxi dress! 

The contest ends tomorrow so make sure you sign up ASAP. 
Just click the image below to enter.  As an added bonus, if you get your friends to sign up you can receive a code for 15% off dresses.  Good luck, I would love for one of you to win!

Rockabye Baby: Favorite Bedtime Products

Hello friends,

Today I want to share with you some products that Josh and I like to use every night while we're getting Graham ready for bed.  

I have to admit that we were very fortunate to have a baby who slept through the night at 5 weeks old.  I'm not sure if my strict adherence to a nightly routine made a difference or if it was just our awesome little man.  Either way, we were't complaining.  I do think that using the same routine every night helps tremendously.  Ours relies heavily on the following items and if one of them is ever missing or broken then we're in trouble!

1 - Cloud B Sleep Sheep

This little sheep is wonderful!  I received it from one of my friends at my baby shower and had no idea what it was.  It's basically a cute, fluffy sound machine that you baby can cuddle with.  You can hang it on the side of the crib (which we do) and take it with you in the car. It has various sounds to help your baby fall asleep and stay asleep.  It stays on for 25-45 minutes depending on your settings.  Graham's favorite sound is the ocean waves.  

2 - Lavender Lotion

I'm sure you're aware that lavender has calming effects.  This makes it perfect for babies right before bedtime.  I like this Aveeno one because the scent is faint and not too overwhelming.  Combine it with a little massage and your baby is ready for sleep!

3 - SwaddleMe Swaddlers

These are a definite must for newborns up to around 4 months.  It keeps your baby wrapped up snug so he/she gets the same feeling of being in the womb which is very comforting to them. (It's also much easier for us parents who aren't very good at traditional swaddling.) Just make sure you stop using the swaddler when your baby can rollover.

4 - NoseFrida

We like using this product before bedtime when Graham is congested.  I know it looks strange and the concept is even stranger but I promise it works so well.  It's much more sanitary than the bulbs from the hospital because you can clean the tubing after each use.  Plus, it's gentle on your baby.

5 - Motorola Digital Monitor

We love this monitor!  We have the version with one camera (the cheaper option) and it fits all of our needs.  The picture is so clear and we can even talk back into the monitor to Graham.  This is a definite MUST HAVE!

I hope this list helps you get hours upon hours of uninterrupted sleep! (A girl can dream, right?)

Experienced parents, are there any items I'm missing?  What would you have on your top 5 list?

Valentine's Day Threads: Pink or Red?

Happy Valentine's Week!

Graham and I are so excited to share our Valentine's Day outfits with you today.  Graham has already decided on his ensemble which includes a custom onesie from my cousin Kelly, his favorite Gap jeans, and his new Converse.  I, on the other hand, need some help deciding: red or pink?  

Here Comes the Bride!

Happy Saturday Friends!

Today I have the honor and privilege of helping my sister pick out a wedding dress.  I can't believe this time is already here, I am so happy for her!  I'm sure I'll cry at least once.

Our shopping trip today got me thinking about the weddings and showers we have coming up.  I always like to have a few new dresses in my arsenal for this time of year.  I've included some favorites below in various price ranges - including a Lilly for $98! 

Have a wonderful weekend!

The Limited Day Dresses · Love Day Dresses · Asos Cocktail Dresses

With love & gratitude,

Heather

Fab Finds Friday: Valentine's Day Gift Guide for Him

Last week my wife shared some Valentine’s Day gifts that any woman would love to receive.  With only a week left before the 14th, it’s time to focus on the forgotten half of Valentine’s - the men!  Here’s a few gift ideas that your man would definitely appreciate.  I’ve tried to incorporate gifts for all different personalities - from the Budget Conscious, to the Practical Guy, to the Tech Geek, to the Southern Gent, and finally the Traditionalist. 

Budget Conscious —- Harry’s Shaving Set

I stumbled upon this online store about a year ago and I love its simplicity and focused product line.  Harry’s offers shaving sets, razor blades and shaving cream for men with sets starting as low as $15 and topping out at $40. For Valentine’s, Harry’s is offering engraved shaving sets that add a touch of personalization with your gift.  Your man will love the blades and at only $2 per blade, they provide the lowest cost per shave (yes, there are websites that track this information!).

The Practical Guy —- Amazon Prime Membership

While this doesn’t sound like a great Valentine’s Day Gift, often times men appreciate practical thought.  Amazon has completely changed the way that we shop and their expedited shipping options typically make it easier to order online than to purchase in retail stores.  At $79, the Prime Membership gives unlimited 2-day shipping and access to Amazon Instant Streaming.  If you make only a few purchases and take advantage of the 2-day shipping, the membership pays for itself very quickly.  

The Tech Geek —- Google Chromecast

I’m not a tech guy at all but I received this as a Christmas present from my sister-in-law and I have not been disappointed.  Google Chromecast makes it easy to stream your online videos and music from your computer, mobile devices, or tablet to your TV.  It plugs into your HDMI port on your television and you connect it to your wifi and you’re done.  It’s great for entertaining and also great if your man loves watching Youtube videos on TV (like I do!).  Chromecast is priced at only $35, so it’s very economical and functional.

The Southern Gent —- Brooks Brothers Sport Coat

If you man wears Polo, has Sperry’s and owns some croakies then go with this red sport coat from Brooks Brothers.  It’s not a traditional color but one that is muted enough to wear through the spring and summer months and it’s a cotton/linen blend that will breathe well in the heat.  When you are shopping for a Southern Gent, you can never go wrong with a blazer or sport coat.

The Traditionalist —- Polo Red Cologne

This is for the guy that expects the same type of gift each Valentine’s gift each year and he probably gets you the same thing every year too.  So nothing says Valentine’s Day gift for men like a bottle of cologne.  As we are on the cusp of spring, it’s good to get a cologne that’s light and airy to match the season.  A new cologne that I really like is Polo Red - it’s made with grapefruit and has a natural citric scent that is clean and not over-bearing. 

Well thanks for reading, ladies. It was a pleasure stopping in and I hope this gives you some help in finding that perfect Valentine’s Day gift for your guy!  Just remember men like gifts too.  Thanks!

Josh

Confessions of a Worried Mother

It was the day after my son's first birthday party. 

As I always do I put off cleaning until the next day. 

I took down the streamers, deflated the balloons, disassembled the sign of pictures from his first year.  Each picture a memory. A reminder that this year has passed in the blink of an eye.

A reminder that my son is growing up.

A reminder that he doesn't need me for nourishment anymore.

A reminder that this has been the best but fastest year of my life.

And that's when an all-too-familiar feeling came back. I knew exactly what it was because I felt it a few days after delivery. Almost a year ago to the day. Why was this happening again? I have no reason to not be happy. I am so blessed.

My mind started to run wild. I pictured Graham going to school, leaving for college, getting married. My mind started to fear. What if something happens to him? What if something happens to me and Josh and we can't take care of him? How much time will I have with my son?

Worry. Anxiety. Fear.

These are the things I didn't truly grasp the depths of until I became a mom. What little fear I had before I became a mother became amplified.  I thought I would worry less once I finally had my baby in my arms but I was wrong. Most of the things I used to worry about became meaningless and minuscule compared to the significance of raising a child. 

I used to worry about my weight. Now I worry that I don't eat enough to produce the milk he needs.

I used to worry about advancing my career.  Now I worry that I spend too much time at work away from him.

I used to worry about not being a good enough friend. Now I worry that he'll miss me when I'm having a night out.

Worry. Anxiety. Fear.

I just wanted these feelings to go away. That's when I turned to the #1 person in my life who I knew would understand: my mom. And what she said will stick with me forever. "You worry because you love him so much. You're a good mother."

All of a sudden the heaviness began to lift.  She reminded me that I'm not alone; all mothers feel the same way.  If we didn't love so much we wouldn't care. The depth of our love can create depths of worry & fear. 

Sometimes I wonder if we're supposed to have these feelings, almost like our motherly instincts.  But then I remember that His Word says, "there is no fear in love." (1 John 4:18) Christ came in the form of perfect love and as it is written in 1 John, "perfect love drives out fear."  We don't have to be afraid, worrisome, or frightful.  We can trust in God to lift us up when we're down.

As a mom I often try to fix things on my own without asking for help. But I know the peace & strength I need can only come from Him.

The strength to enjoy each day with my boy without anxiety. 

The strength to make sacrifices in my life to enrich his.

The strength to let him learn from his mistakes.

The strength to share my struggles with all of you.

My hope is that my openness and transparency blesses your life. I want my experiences to be an encouragement to you. And I hope and pray you will encourage others.  I want us all to be blessed and to learn to trust in Him, the Author and Perfecter of our faith, at all times.

And always remember - you're a good mother.

With love & gratitude,

Heather

"Cast all your anxieties on Him because He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7)

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (Matthew 6:34)



Workout Wednesday: Favorite Fitness DVDs

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Happy Wednesday friends!  

How is your week going?  Have you been able to fit in your workouts?  Graham and I took a gorgeous interval run on the beach on Monday so I gave myself a break yesterday.  Life is all about balance, right? :)  

Speaking of fitting in workouts, that can be very difficult with my little man running around.  Luckily I have a whole slew of fitness DVDs from when I was cheering in the NFL.  It was tough to make it to the gym consistently back then because I was working full time.  We also practiced 9-10 hours a week so obviously gym time was not my top priority when I actually had free time.  That's why I loved using DVDs.  A great workout in much less time!

I love fitness DVDs for so many reasons.  First, you save gas and time because you can workout from the comfort of your own home.  Second, they're quick and effective.  Third, they're inexpensive and can be used over & over!  So without further ado, my favorite fitness DVDs are listed below. 

1 - Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred

Oh how I love this tough woman!  She really does kick your butt in this 20-minute boot camp style workout.  There are 3 different levels so once you feel comfortable with level one move up to two then three. Your body will be challenged but you should definitely see some positive changes if you stick with it.  

2 - Jillian Michaels Ripped in 30

This DVD is very similar to the first, however, I think it's more difficult.  Instead of three levels this one has four.  If you like (and by like I mean you like the results, not necessarily that you like doing them) pushups and planks then this DVD is for you!  I actually used this one to train for Pro Bowl.

3 - Shape Magazine Pilates

This is by far my favorite Pilates DVD.  It actually makes me break a sweat and I always feel like my tummy is tighter the next day.  Hurry, there are only a few left.  

4 - Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Boot Camp

So I have to admit that I don't own this DVD but I did try the workouts when they were free on demand and I love them!  Obviously if DCC produced it, you know it's good. :)

So, have you tried any of these?  Are there any you would like to try or add to the list?

Let me know if you buy one.  I'd love to hear how you like it!

With love & gratitude,

Heather

Breastfeeding Mommy Style: Cardigans

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Welcome back friends!

Today I'm featuring some beautiful cardigans for the Breastfeeding Mommy Style series.  Cardigans are great to pair with nursing tanks or dresses. After I had Graham I felt more comfortable with a cardigan over my pre-pregnancy dresses since I didn't have my toned arms right away.  In my opinion cardigans are a staple, you can never have too many!

The cardigans I've selected will transition flawlessly from winter to spring.  The colors and patterns are perfect for the warmer weather!  I am especially loving the lace Modcloth cardigan (#5).  Unfortunately it's sold out but you can sign up to receive an email when it's back in stock.  I also really like the asymmetrical cardigan from Nordstrom's (#10).  It's like a stylish nursing cover!  I might need one for myself.

Hopefully you can snag some of these beauties before they're gone.  Some are already low in inventory!  

Thanks again for reading!

With love & gratitude,

Heather

Graham's Fashion Finds: Big Boy Shoes!

Happy Monday friends!

As most of you know Graham recently started walking and he is all over the place.  He is not a big fan of shoes so we only have one pair that stay on him.  Even those don't last long once he's in his carseat because he rips open the velcro and pulls them off.

With that said, we need to buy some big boy shoes for our little man.  I've been searching high and low and these are some of my favorites.

Are there any brands you like that I missed?  Any tips for keeping his shoes on?  

Sperry Boys' Shoes · Stride Rite Boys' Shoes · Polo Ralph Lauren Boys' Shoes

Thanks for stopping by, I hope you have a great week!

With love & gratitude,

Heather