Wednesday, January 27, 2016

DIY Closet Makeover


I'll admit, I have a lot of everything when it comes to fashion.  I have more shoes than I need, enough clothes to not repeat an outfit for a unreasonably long time, and enough perfume to last me on a deserted island.  Sometimes, if you have a ton of stuff, it's necessary to organize and de-clutter.  I have done some of this myself with the help of my mom, but I will also be sharing some awesome tips in the near future from Asiye Kay, professional stylist and owner of Asiye's Boutique.

My current closet situation is awesome and was inexpensive. My shelves for shoes and racks for clothes were from Home Depot and I found some great bins for organization at Home Goods.  Asiye is going to help me take my organization a step further and show me how to really stay organized and truly minimize my wardrobe.  She will be sharing her tips on how to take her showroom experience to your very own closet. Stay tuned for these amazing closet makeover tips!

Sunday, January 24, 2016

Snow Day








 



Normally, I am the first to complain about a huge snowstorm headed our way but being snowed in on Saturday was actually just what I needed.  I caught up on one of my favorite shows, The Good Wife on CBS, made homemade granola bars (will post the recipe soon!) and just enjoyed some quality time with Gavin.  It was a great feeling having nowhere to be and a great excuse to wear pajamas all day, not that I need one!
   I soo wanted to go in our hot tub in the snowstorm but because of the winds, decided it wasn't a good idea.  I settled for making homemade hot cocoa (with a drop of peppermint in it which made is so delicious) and warmed up under our outdoor heater which is so great to have this time of year.  Luckily, today was sunny and I met up with friends for brunch after getting a little cabin-fever from being in all day yesterday.  I am in love with the color of these booties from Johnston + Murphy. The color is called Espresso and they are so warm and comfortable--perfect booties for this kind of weather.
Did you get any snow?  If so, how did you spend your snow day?

Lace up top: Free People | Printed vest: T.J. Maxx | Brynn Booties c/o Johnston & Murphy (on sale!)| Knit hat c/o Asiye's Boutique 


Ever After,
Jamie

Friday, January 22, 2016

How Becoming a Mom Changed my Life


      I got pregnant at 28, seemingly the perfect age to have a child, right?  Young enough to have the energy to keep up with the demanding schedule of children but old enough to have traveled, settled into my career, and become financially stable.  However, I realized, you can never truly prepare for what's about to come.
    People will try to prepare you; "Get your sleep now!" or my personal favorite, "Just wait..." anytime I complained about not having enough time/energy/money, etc.  I remember thinking, I'll never be one of those people that "warns" people about becoming a parent.  Because no one, no matter how "ready" you are can prepare you for what is about to come.
    I never, in a million years, thought I could love another human being as much I love my son.  Of course, I love my husband, but the love I have for my son is unconditional.  When he is in pain, it literally pings my insides; and when he smiles, my entire life lights up like a Christmas tree.   I was not prepared that I would actually want to stay in Friday nights with Gavin even though I knew I had both sets of grandparents begging to watch him.  Becoming a mom changed me in the following ways.

  1.  I love my husband even more.  Even through the sleepless nights of us screaming, "YOUR TURN!" when Gavin won't sleep; seeing him as a father, and knowing we created something so precious together is so rewarding.  I always wanted kids since I could remember and am happy to have chosen the best partner to start a family with.

2.  I have a healthier view of "perspective" now.  I, like many people, would get really stressed over things in life that looking back, were not really a big deal.  Having a child, believe it or not, has helped me chill a little more.  I worry less about everything and savour the moments I have with my family.     

3.  I respect my mom that much more. One can never understand what a mother goes through until she is one.  I remember thinking my mom was so overprotective when she would call me to make sure I got home OK, or worry about me in a snowstorm, and check up on me several times when I was sick. I freaked when Gavin fell over when he first started sitting up, and I thought, "oh my.. I am my mother's daughter."  I also understand how much work, commitment, and patience is required when becoming a parent.  Who knew I had it in me? :)

4. I am more aware of people I have in my life.  Now, more than ever, I want to surround myself with great people who will be great influences on me and my family. It truly takes a village.  Although clichè, this couldn't be more true.  We are so lucky to have the support from our family and friends.  Gavin is with my aunt all day, with us at night, plays with his cousins and friends, and loved so much by his family, especially grandparents. At only 8 months, he has already developed strong relationships with the people in his life and I am so happy we have such a supportive community surrounding Gavin.

Friday, January 15, 2016

#OOTD Roundup

I don't have the best photos this week because Gavin + I have been fighting a cold.  I never got a chance to share some new outfit featuring a lot of the items I got for Christmas!  I am in love with this sparkly skirt I wore on NYE and although the far right photo is blurry, I had to share a photo of my new boots from my mom.  They are soo comfy and cute.  Of course, I get lazy sometimes and throw on a flannel with Uggs :)

What are you loving in your closet right now?  Are you on Instagram?  If so, follow me for snapshots of my daily outfits here!



Ever After,
Jamie

Tuesday, January 12, 2016

Chicken Sausage, Kale + Beans

 Trying to get my husband to eat kale or any greens for that matter is like trying to get a cat to take a bath.  I have attempted several times to kind of "sneak" greens in dinner and have failed miserably.  However, my mom told me about this dish, which she originally made with escarole, and everyone loved it, even Ryan!  It is a staple in my household and it is virtually carb-free and loaded with nutrients and protein.



 
Ingredients:

  • 1 large bunch of kale (chopped)
  • 1 package of chicken sausage, sliced (I used Al Fresco with spinach & feta)
  • 1 tblsp olive oil
  • 1 lemon
  • 2-3 cloves garlic (minced/chopped)
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (I use low sodium)


Directions: Heat olive oil in large sauté pan over medium heat.  Add sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes.  Add garlic, kale, white beans, and chicken broth and let cook over medium heat.  Squeeze fresh lemon and stir in as you cook for 5 minutes.  Enjoy!


Monday, January 4, 2016

The Perfect Cobb Salad


I constantly get a Cobb salad at a local restaurant I love and wanted to replicate it.  The thought of avocado + bacon added to anything makes me happy.  Although this salad is high in fat, it's also high in protein and mostly good fats and I swap out regular bacon with uncured turkey bacon.  I also top with this homemade honey mustard dressing and I skip the cheese as well to keep the recipe healthier.





Ingredients:
  • Romaine lettuce
  • 1 avocado (cut into thin strips)
  • 3 strips uncured turkey bacon
  • 1 hard boiled egg  (sliced)
  • 1/2 cup roasted corn (optional)
Directions:  In medium pan, heat 1 tsp oil (olive or coconut oil) & cook bacon until crispy.  Cut into small pieces.  Set aside.  Boil 1 egg, peel and set aside to cool.   Slice hard boiled egg once cooled.  Place lettuce in large salad bowl and toss with avocado, bacon pieces, egg, and optional roasted corn.  (I had left-over corn so I cooked in a pan until crispy and it added a delicious southwest taste!)  Add salt & paper to taste and dressing of choice.  I personally love this honey mustard recipe. Enjoy!