Therapist, Life Coach, BS Caller

I've seen a therapist off and on since I was a kid. The first couple were really odd, but maybe that's because I wasn't old enough to express myself and I didn't know what to say. I can't remember a time in my life where I didn't feel nervous and afraid. I joke with my mom that she must have had a stressful pregnancy because I was born and immediately wanted to turn back around. Things got better my senior year of high school. I didn't need to see a therapist and I was coming into my own. That natural quest for autonomy and independence took over, and I relied on friends and my studies to distract myself from all the noise I've always had in my head. I felt like I hit my stride, and I finally came out of my shell and became more social. Of course the anxiety didn't disappear, but I had my priorities straight, my confidence grew, and I figured out that I'm a damn good student.

So when I graduated college, I really struggled. I felt so incredibly lost, and I definitely went through what is now referred to as "a quarter life crisis." I even read a book about this by that same title, and it convinced me to begin seeing a therapist again. I called someone that Nate's friend was suggested, and she has been my sounding board ever since 2010. What I love about her is that she isn't typical in any way. She lets me vent when I need to, but she doesn't just sit back, nod politely, or take notes. She actually calls me out on my bull, tells it like she sees it, and steers me into the direction I want to go in. She gives advice and suggestions but ultimately it's up to me to put in the work. Because of this, there have been periods where I stopped seeing her. I would hit a wall because the work was too emotional for me, so I skipped appointments or just stopped going for a few months. I discovered that's what I do when I let my anxiety win - I isolate, retreat, and stop wanting to be around people at all, even friends or family.

Lately the brain fog is so severe that I have days where I don't want to get out of bed. I force myself to, but it isn't easy. I'm seeing my therapist regularly and that definitely helps. Just like a personal trainer, she pushes me to want more for myself and to do the absolute best I can to cut the crap, stop feeling sorry for myself, and keep going. I hope you ladies all have something or someone similar in your lives. Obviously it doesn't have to be a therapist! Just someone you can rely on to get you through rough times. I'm lucky enough to have a few, but therapy is the one thing that keeps me accountable.


I hope you enjoy your day. I'm off to San Diego to see my best friend. You could say that's therapy too.

Continue the post

Hit or Miss

Wearing //

Old Navy blouse

Old Navy flats

Loft jeans, similar

J.Crew Factory clutch, similar

Stella & Dot necklace and ring (you need both)

I used to shop fairly often at Old Navy, but the quality of their clothing has always been hit or miss for me so I stopped going there for awhile. Recently, I decided to give them another look and I was pleasantly surprised with my purchases. I'm trying to cut back on shopping and have even decided to put myself on a ban for the remainder of the year. That might seem drastic but I'd rather focus my energy on re-styling the pieces I own and have recently bought, rather than constantly clearing out my closet for new things. But back to Old Navy. I really love the feminine lace detail at the neckline of my blouse, and the color is stunning. Jewel tones are my favorite this time of year, and although it's nothing ground-breaking, I like to mix them in with neutrals. The flats are also a great find. I've been wanting a pair of camel flats for months and I'm glad I didn't have to spend much at all on these. My Stella & Dot jewels pull it all together! Love them.

I hope you ladies are doing well. I've been in a funk for the past few days so I'm trying my best to shake it off. Maybe once the election is over tonight I'll feel better! We can probably all agree on that.

Continue the post

Currently Loving : Easy Beauty

As much as I love browsing Sephora, Ulta, and any drugstore in my area, I've come to the realization that I'm a complete bore when it comes to actually wearing makeup. It's pretty to look at, but ultimately I like doing just that most days - looking at it, and then proceeding to reach for easy neutral products that will get me ready in under ten minutes. I used to have fun with makeup, but now I prefer to enhance the features I like and just accept the ones I don't. I have a round face. That's a fact, deal with it. My brows are thinner than I'd like, my lashes are short, and I have a bump on my nose thanks to a dodgy game of dodgeball during elementary school. Instead of contouring myself to death, or spending money on lash extensions, I've come to terms that this is it! Quite possibly as good as it's gonna get.

But, there is one product I've been using for months now that makes getting ready still somewhat enjoyable. I hope this mini review helps you too if you're trying to downsize and cut back on time.

Charlotte Tilbury 

This is my foray into the Charlotte Tilbury line, and it definitely does not disappoint! I can understand why so many gurus love her products. I purchased this on sale during Nordstrom's anniversary back in the Summer, and I honestly have not used much of anything since. Everything you need is conveniently right here. Three neutral shadows, two VERY pigmented blushes (one peachy, one rose colored), a bronzer, and a beautiful natural looking highlighter that I slap on my eyes and cheeks. These colors are so universally flattering that I think many people will appreciate it. The powders are all smooth, pigmented, and long lasting. I'm tempted to try more from her line, especially her lipsticks but I'm holding back for now. If you're ever wondering what I'm wearing in my photos or on snap, it's this palette. 

Note - I checked Nordstrom's site and it's currently sold out. Darn! Not the best timing for this post, but I'm sure it'll come back in stock for the holidays. I linked to her website if you want to check out her other products. Most are dual purpose which is great!

All this being said, there's nothing that looks better on women than a smile. Had to say it.

Continue the post

Fall for the Moment

Wearing //

Rails plaid shirt, similar for less

Express skirt, similar here & here

Hinge lace up heels

Nordstrom clutch, similar

Kendra Scott necklace

Beauty //

Pedicure in Essie Flowerista 

Lips in Glo Minerals Aubergine

John Frieda Air Dry Waves

It's about that time again. That magical moment each year where southern California finally starts feeling like Fall, and every woman I know gets so OMG excited to wear all the things - boots, plaid, sweaters, leggings, you name it. It usually lasts for a few days, and then just like that, the weather changes to Summer again and we go back to wearing tee shirts. Some refuse to accept this, and I completely understand the frustration. I used to be that person, until I finally realized that common sense says that people should dress for the weather, and not for the season. We live in a beautiful place so we may as well enjoy it and stop the complaining. Like one of my favorite quotes says, "nothing is under control" the least of which is the weather! Wherever you are, just embrace it. Unless you're so miserable that you plan on moving, then that's different!

But on this particular day, it did feel like Fall and I took advantage. Since it never gets that cold, the best way I know how to incorporate the season is by playing with jewel tones, moody lips and nails, and texture. I may be wearing a suede skirt and a thin plaid shirt, but it looks the part right? They say that life begins again in the Fall, and maybe it's true. I always associate new beginnings with the start of a new year, but it's comforting to think that we can start anew whenever we choose to. It's all a choice, and that we can control.

It's been awhile since I linked up but I'm doing so with Tara today :)

Continue the post