Inspiration

For the past year and a half, I have a confession to make. I spiraled. I’m not sure exactly what spurred it on, but I went down a worry wormhole like none other. Part of it felt like it started at the beginning of pregnancy. As my therapist and I discussed the why over this past year she brought to my attention that it was likely a form of protection like a mama bear would have with her cubs. None the less it got to a point where I felt like I couldn’t go a day without fear arising. Trauma in life can do some crazy things to the brain. It can carve channels that spur fear by creating neurological connections. That’s the science behind it, and the good news is - you can change it. It’s called neuroplasticity. Both prayer and meditation are proven to rewire the brain. Today I’m going to share a few ways you can take your power back and let go of worrying for life.

As we get to the end of January, I realize it’s been a little bit of a tough month for a lot of us. As the new year approached, I was feeling an urge to switch things up. I recently shared in this post it was just time for change. Although the new year has new goals, themes, and milestones planned… I really struggled with thought patterns. Instead of ruminating or brooding, I found myself aching for mental change. Change your environment and you will find that new energy flows. I learned this concept back in Interior Design school and studied Feng Shui. Energy is everywhere and when we need to make a mental or emotional change, look to change the environment. Today I’m sharing five ways to change your daily flow which will, in turn, change your mindset.

This picture was captured by my incredible husband this past week and I truly felt like it captured my essence. I am finally feeling like I have energy again and wanted to share insights to why I’ve been quiet on the blog this year. The past five and a half months brought a whirlwind of things I did not expect. Many of you guys have followed my journey over the years, but for some of the new faces I had a baby five months ago.

This past year has amounted to an extreme amount of growth. Almost a year ago, I made the decision to go back to one-on-one counseling to sort out some stuff that was surfacing emotionally in my life. It was so hard, but I finally feel like I’m on the upswing and things are more manageable. It’s easy to make excuses in our lives for behaviors we did when we were not at our best. It’s also really easy to blame others for the things that went wrong. Ultimately, accepting full responsibility for my life has given me freedom and inner power I did not know a few years ago. I’m going to share with you today 10 Things I Learned this Year in hopes of inspiring you to rise above your current state of being into a higher version of yourself.

For the past year, I’ve struggled to feel spiritually challenged. For most of my life, I’ve constantly sought to expand my spiritual knowledge and push myself to educate myself about theology, religion, spiritual topics, and the bible. I’ve studied the Bible in depth for the past 30 years dissecting it, cross referencing, and getting involved in small group Bible studies to understand God better and what his word says. I’ve also studied a plethora of other spiritual practices and viewpoints including angel numbers, numerology, Buddhism the history behind the Islamic religion, and Catholicism practices. I wanted to truly understand the world’s viewpoints on faith, hope, righteousness, and what God had to say about them.

After a grueling weekend last week, I made a decision Saturday afternoon to do a 48-hour social media detox. Being a blogger and influencer comes with the price of constantly being on social media through posting content on multiple platforms, engaging with followers, and then responding in direct messages. It’s such an incredible way to create a space in the world but sometimes we all need a break. I desperately did. I started feeling a little out of touch with myself. I felt like I had a million things tugging at me and I was struggling with mindfulness. I put a quick plan together and then alerted my boyfriend and kiddo that I would be offline and intermittently checking my phone for the weekend. Here’s what I did in hopes to inspire you to take that much-needed downtime.

I’m sharing a live on Facebook this Friday at 8:30pm on Five Steps to Start a Blog. You can register here and its a FREE Masterclass. We will cover some of what I share in today’s post, plus so much more. You will walk away feeling empowered and equipped with a game plan to launch your own blog. So with further ado, let’s jump into today’s discussion on how to start your own blog in five easy steps.

Wow! What a weekend! After taking this last year to really ground myself and work on transformation from the inside, I finally made it out for the Laura Ashley 70th Anniversary Event with Growing Up Texas! It was so incredible to meet Jennifer and Mike who restored a vintage Grand Station with Laura Ashley printed fabrics. The event was hosted at one of my favorite local hotels, The Stella and catered by Campfire Grill. The whole experience was out of a storybook and unfolded beautifully as we mixed and mingled on Saturday afternoon.

I cannot believe this is actually happening! This past month Three Heel Clicks released a few apparel items and now we have a collab with What’s the Buzz Specialty Coffee located in College Station, TX. We’ve teamed up to bring you the most incredible high-quality coffee. This is an artwork in a cup and tastes incredible. I’ll be sharing so much more about the process of coffee and various methods of brewing a cup so make sure you subscribe to my newsletter.

Today I wanted to share the new cropped sweatshirt! It comes in mauve, dusty blue, and black. It’s designed to be lightweight enough for Spring and Summer months but also is the perfect amount of soft and cozy to slip on after a workout or when you are feeling like you need a little lift for your mood. I love the perfect shade of this one and how the cut shows off your hips and waist.

Sometimes we don’t need a long blog post, we just need a quick reminder and that’s just what I’m here to do for you. Remind you that you were created for something purposeful. You were created to shine a light on this world. You were created to shine. So go now…shine bright like a diamond.

For today’s look, I paired the cutest blazer and fleece-lined jeans from Luvamia available on Amazon. I threw on a V-neck tank top and my new favorite two-toned pumps that are so ladylike from Elizee’s. Designed with ultimate comfort in mind! I think this heel height is perfect for a workday or luncheon. I finished things off with one of my favorite black purses from Michael Kors complete with gold hardware that matches my Kendra Scott gold filigree earrings.

Happy New Year! So excited about the things to come in the next few weeks! We are already a third of the way through this 30 Days of Outfits series! I shot a bunch of looks over the holidays and cannot wait to share them with you. Today I’m wearing this sexy form-fitting green dress from Luvamia (available on Amazon). I love love love the way it fits! The slit is in the perfect spot and the dress comes in a few different colors. I paired it with satin and rhinestone embellished mules and added a pair of sparkly statement earrings. You can shop the entire look here!

Also, I just launched a one-hour photography course that is complete with your own Lightroom preset which I used to edit the photos you see here. Treat yourself and your Instagram feed this year by learning how to take incredible pictures using your cell phone!

XOXO Crystal

For today’s look of 30 Days of Outfits, I’m sharing a really cute girls’ night out or date night look. I paired this black lantern sleeve sweetheart neckline top (that I also have in pink see here) with a suede-like mini skirt. Platforms are really in right now and this is such an affordable option. I grabbed them in black but there are so many other colors. I added a feminine clutch and a pair of statement earrings.

Today is now Day 6 of 30 Days of Outfits! This series has been so much fun to put together. Today I am sharing the cutest travel look. Bosidu sent me this adorable striped bag that has so many compartments! I love the design and the quality and they are giving you guys 20% off using this link. This makes a perfect last-minute gift for your travel companion. I paired it with these adorable capri pants that are the perfect length for even short legs like mine! They come in a variety of colors but this canyon pink had me at hello. I paired it with more stripes and then added blush sneakers to elongate my legs. Since I’m only 5’0 I use all the tricks! You can shop the whole look here and browse the other 30 Days of Outfits here!

Are you feeling stuck? I understand. I’ve been there several times throughout my life. Sometimes I was facing a blockage that needed to be cleared and other times I had resistance. I’ve found one thing to be true in both situations. If you feel stuck, time to work on yourself. Look to your daily habits, what you are feeding yourself and how much joy you are experiencing. The thing is, we all get off track sometimes. We all have dips and valleys in life. It’s what makes the high points so pleasurable. If you are lacking glow right now, here are five ways to get it back. PS - I recently shared these on Facebook in a quick video!

I’ve been on a conquest to get to the root of my being. For the past few months, I took time throughout each day for inward reflection… Constantly asking myself if what I am currently doing is what will lead me to the highest version of myself. I examined forward and backward each small habit, every conversation I would partake in, and each movement I would choose to make. We are a sum of all the little choices we make throughout the day. Our character is a combination of actions we choose. After years of feeling obligated to do certain things, have certain jobs, and run what you would consider the rat race I decided I couldn’t do it anymore. My soul just needed more.

I believe the world is a giant playground filled with magical corners. I believe heaven lies in running through a sunflower field at sunset, floating on the river with people you love, and being able to take long sunset drives with someone special.

It’s no secret around here that I’m an earth lover. As much as I am kinda girly I have this adventurous side that loves to get outdoors no matter what. I feel the happiest laying in the sunshine and feeling the soft breeze blow across my face. I was so excited to partner with Sarah Flint - a woman-owned company that specializes in Italian shoes because of the company’s mission to provide products made in facilities with sustainable materials. The Sustainable Steps Collection from Sarah Flint breeds the best of luxury fashion with sustainability. You don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort anymore! Each pair is hand crafted in Italy by artisans using the most eco-friendly materials.

When this blog was initially created, I set out to share the magic that happened in my life on a daily basis. I had no idea at the blog would become my life story a decade later. I seek every single day to find magical moments. Life is busy. There’s so much happening. Slowing down in the mornings and evenings has given me the ability to discover more magic. Sometimes it’s how the sky lights up at sunset on a walk with the cool breeze blowing across the grass. Sometimes it’s the light wind rustling in trees and the way they look like pieces of lace overlapping one another against a blue background. Sometimes it’s the giggles of my daughter or the jokes we make on our drives together. Seeking magic every day is what makes life sweeter. Here are a few ways to make each day special…

It’s that time of year! Finally, Texas bluebonnet season. If you’ve never been to Texas during this time of year then it’s time for you to plan your next trip! In late March and early Spring, the entire state becomes alive with wildflowers. Specifically, the Texas Bluebonnet which is our state flower. For years, my family flocked to find the best fields for photographs. It’s perfect for bridal pictures, senior college or high school pictures, family portraits, and of course, blog photos! I decided to round up a list of some of the top locations to find these bluebonnet fields!

If you are looking for your next Texas vacation then you need to check out Port Aransas! Nestled on the Texas Gulf Coast between Galveston and N Padre Island is the charming island and beach town called Port Aransas. Filled with pastel shops, stores, and restaurants this makes the perfect family vacation! I spent a couple of days here and put together a weekend guide for you guys! From Instagram spots to a restaurant that has presidential history, here is a guide to spending the weekend in Port Aransas and the neighboring city Corpus Christi.

I shared a little last week in this post about my trip to South Padre Island. This is the perfect Spring Break location if you are looking for a tropical paradise in Texas. The water is incredible, the beaches are soft with rolling sand dunes and the island is filled with turtles, birds, dolphins, and other wildlife. It’s a welcomed oasis in South Texas. While I was on the island I drove over the bridge to Port Isabel where one of the most beautiful lighthouses on the gulf coast resides. The lighthouse sits in the middle of Port Isabel’s town square with a multitude of shops and restaurants. The lighthouse is open to tour so make sure you check their website for hours and cost for admission. Since I knew I’d be walking a lot that day I pulled out my favorite pair of flats!

My family is originally from the deep south and porches are a thing for anyone who lives in Alabama. Although I call Texas home, there are a few things from my childhood I’ve carried over here, and having a porch to relax on is a necessity. I recently made a few updates to my patio to include DIY paper lantern outdoor light shades. You basically tie a few paper lanterns together with thread and hang over the ugly old light fixture. Also, a fantastic idea for a party! My outdoor sconces are pretty deepest into the porch, so I’m not worried about wind damage. I went ahead and put together a few tips for decorating your patio!

A few years ago whenever I looked in the mirror I saw someone who was a failure. I talked to her that way, too. I’d say things like, “You are not getting things right today.” Or “This isn’t your day.”

I began avoiding mirrors. I saw every single flaw in myself every single day. Then, one day a mentor of mine told me to say one positive thing for every negative thing I said.

Looking back, what I was going through was depression. I was so tired every day. I was angry at how life turned out and I felt like everything was my fault. Depression is a lot of work to manage. It’s a level of fatigue that makes taking a shower feel like an Olympic sport. But I kept going. Each time I said something crappy to myself, I stop and say something positive.

The past few months I’ve traveled back and forth to Dallas often. It’s an area I haven’t spent a ton of time in the past and I’ve really enjoyed getting to see the different parts of the city. Recently I decided to make it a point to stop by the Dallas Arboretum. The day I chose to go it actually snowed on me a while I was walking around. This garden is known for being one of the most photographic spots in the city. Each year the grounds are covered in flowers and blooms all Spring long. You will need to purchase a ticket online in advance and make sure you also purchase parking. You’ll pick an arrival time and you are encouraged to bring a picnic and spend a few hours there. I cannot wait to make a second trip over the Spring and share more about it with you guys!

For years I tried on different lifestyles trying to figure out which one was mine. I tried being the housewife, the adventurer, the breadwinner, the holistic momma, the corporate go-getter, and much more. I needed to go through an elimination process to figure out what I wasn’t before defining what I would be. I think that’s okay. Not all of us come out of the womb knowing our life path. Four years ago I began a journey of self-discovery. I spent more time alone than I ever have to learn about myself, other people, noting what I liked and disliked. I explored destinations alone and reflected in a new journal every month. Pages upon pages were written trying to connect the dots of who I used to be to who I am now. I am told that only a small percentage of people are self-aware. I yearned to be a part of that group. The more I discovered about myself the more I became intentional in my choices resulting in more peace and joy than I knew before. If you are at a similar place in life where you just ache to be more of who you are here are a few things that might help.

Gosh, I love the ocean. I have to say out of all of the places I lived and visited in my lifetime, I feel most at home when I’m near the ocean. There’s something so soothing and powerful about the water. The waves hold so much force as they push and pull against the grains of sand on the shore. Soft powdery sand that feels like you walking on powdered sugar makes for the best walks. The sunsets are unbelievable and when a storm rolls in…well, as frightening as they are - they also carry so much strength. Today I’m going to share a whole bunch of date ideas, but if you are single… I want you to know it’s okay to do any (or all of these) activities by yourself and show yourself some love. I say that because some of my best memories of my happy place were spent in times of solitude. Valentine’s Day whether you’re in a relationship or not is a day to celebrate love. A day to bring forth self-love and care if you are single. Here’s a word for all the single ladies on valentine’s day if you are looking for some ideas on how to spend your time! Highly recommend some of the tips here! If you are in a couple, I challenge you to take time over the next week to figure out a way to show your partner that you adore them. Brainstorm a few ideas and make the event special. The effort will be worth it!

If you are new around here you probably should note that I still go on hikes often because I love the outdoors so dang much! After spending a few days in West Texas hiking and driving through both Caprock Canyons and Palo Duro Canyon I decided to head more north to celebrate New Year’s in Colorado Springs, CO. I’ve made several trips to Colorado over the years with friends but this was the first time alone. I decided that if I only did one epic activity it was to get to Pikes Peak Summit. I quickly researched the ways to get to the top - you can hike about 14 miles… um… no thank you. That’s pretty aggressive to get to one of the tallest peaks in the US. You can drive it but winds a lot and steep grades. It is Winter… and again… no thank you. Then, I stumbled across the train! You can take a three-hour round trip up 9 miles on a train to reach Pikes Peak Summit. That I could manage!