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.

An Afternoon Tea Party With Laura Ashley at The Stella

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.

Three Heel Clicks x What's The Buzz Specialty Coffee Releases Today!

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.

Sunflower Fields

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.

Build Your Dreams Daily

Time is precious. It’s the one form of currency we cannot get back. Over the past few years, I’ve grown to be more and more intentional with how I spend my time. Taking out and saying no to activities that are energy draining. Spending time doing the things that bring me joy. Intentionally carving out special moments with people I love and care about. As I’ve done this day after day I realize most days I am living a dream I had years ago. Back in 2017, I went through a period of life that was incredibly trying. During that time I remember having a vision where I spent my time as much as possible in nature and traveling to see things I love. It was a peaceful vision. I’m happy to report that five years later much of my free time is spent doing just that. If you want your life to change, start taking small daily steps towards that life. Here are ways to build your dream life every day.

Tangerine and Blue Dream

Yesterday was Earth Day so I made sure to get out for a late evening walk before heading to hibachi with a group of my friends. I grabbed this adorable set from Target in the most beautiful tangerine color along with the most comfortable headband and earrings to add a pop of blue. Target has the cutest stuff in right now! I recently grabbed these Sarah Flint Grear sandals that just launched in a beautiful orange for summer! You can save $50 off your next pair of Sarah Flint shoes when you shop using my link. I love love love the craftsmanship in these Amalfi made sandals. Each pair is handcrafted in Italy by artisans. The soft ties do not rub blisters and the leather sole makes them so comfortable to walk in all day. To finish off the entire look I added a vintage straw bag for the daytime and swapped it out with a white satchel for the evening. I hope you guys are having the most amazing weekend. You can shop all my favorite tangerine and blue finds below!

How To Blog: Photography Tips

If you missed my first post in this How to Blog series I talked about five ways you can make money on your blog. You can read that post here, and today I’m continuing the series to share more tips and tricks with you. A key element for any blog is photography. Whether you are snapping pictures of food for recipes creating or you work in the tech world and are delivering copy on wide area networks you still need pictures for your posts! There are a few reasons - first, it helps optimize your page when you add alt text behind graphics. That allows search engines like Google and Pinterest to find your blog. Spiders will crawl your page to look for strings of keywords that are relevant searches, but images help boost your visibility!

Thoughts on Rest and Play (and Why You Need It)

I spent the weekend resting, relaxing, and playing. The past month of my life was a whirlwind. My role at my job changed, a trip mid-month for a work conference in Vegas took place, and then when I returned it was a non-stop follow up from the trip. I worked twelve days straight without taking even an evening to myself. It was absolutely necessary, but at the beginning of last week, I started to feel really heavy. I dreaded Monday morning and felt like I had zero time to decompress. That was it for me. I knew it was time to take a break. It was suggested I take a full day off and just do what makes me happy, so I did just that. It can be a HUGE challenge to work full-time and run a blog and a business on social media. Although I’ve been doing all three for years, this month was particularly tough. I struggled to bounce back with energy. One thing I have learned about life is that I am the only one responsible for my life. If I want to live a life with clarity and calm I have to create that environment. I also know that I am prone to maxing myself out. Here are a few things I’ve learned about the necessity of rest and play.

A Classic White Blazer

I am so glad it’s finally Spring! The past few months have been incredible, but nothing is better than fresh blooming flowers and a beautiful breezy cool night. I love this time of year so much! During the daytime in Texas the temperatures rise enough most days so you can get away with a dress and sandals. Come nightfall, you’ll need a lightweight jacket or white blazer to stay warm. I have been eyeing this one from The Drop that’s under $80! I already own it in tan and think the white will be perfect for this time of year! You can wear it over dresses or layer over a button-up with jeans or shorts. It’s one of the most versatile options!

Bluebonnet Fields in Texas

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!

Alcohol Free For Three Years Now (and life lessons learned)

Wow. I am in a little disbelief that I am typing these words, but today (which is March 22, 2022) marks three full years since my last drink. Over the course of the past three years, I’ve meta morphed into the best version of myself so far. As I journaled early this morning I realized just how far I’ve come and what it took to get here. I thought I’d share a few life lessons in today’s post. If you are considering removing alcohol from your life then this is the post for you. This is what changed over three years. Some of it I didn’t think was possible. Some of these things required day-by-day focus. Some of it just fell into place. All of it is my testimony to making the best choice for myself. These days I feel alive and I feel like most days I thrive. The complete opposite of where I was a few years back.

Sunny Spring Yellow

I’m on a yellow kick lately. There’s something so bright and cheerful about daffodil and marigold shades of yellow I’ve had it on constant rotation. I recently share this yellow maxi dress and this adorable top with you guys! Today’s it’s all about the gorgeous cabana stripes on this Caroline Constas top. Statement tops are perfect for resort wear styles and vacation. This same top would look adorable with a midi or maxi skirt, a pair of skinny jeans or linen pants. Dressed up or dressed down it’s dramatic and flattering. I decided to wear it with a pair of cropped pants I picked up from Amazon the Drop and pops of white accessories. Although this top is more of an investment piece, I rounded up a few under $100 below for you to shop! To top things off I added a little gold jewelry and a bright yellow satchel I’ve had for years!

Twirling in a La Maison Talulah Dress

I recently discovered the label La Maison Talulah and let me tell you I couldn’t be happier. The brand designs the most feminine dresses with the most delicate of details like the button-down bodice and tiered ruffle skirted on this dress. You probably remember this short floral dress I wore recently here and here. That one has the most beautiful cut and ruffles on the shoulders and sleeves. The fabric of both dresses was also impressive. Such quality! If you are looking for a few options at lower price points check out the shopping list below! I included a few from Amazon that is under $50!

Pretty Plaid Dress

Hope you had a lovely weekend! I am prepping for a business trip and spending the weekend with my daughter and getting ready for travel. I also had such a good time at a luncheon and putting with friends at Bigshot Golf here in town. If you haven’t been over there, I highly recommend it! It was a blast! I planned to wear this dress that evening, but temperatures dropped quickly, and I ended up changing into jeans and a sweater. This shirt dress has the prettiest Madrid plaid print. Soft colors and delicate embroidery make this a really special piece. I’ve been wearing shirt dresses often lately - see this post and this post. They are so easy to throw on and look flattering on most body types. Because they are tied at the waist, it creates a natural hourglass shape. Plus, having a fuller skirt allows you to move freely without feeling like you are going to flash someone. Yes, you can even sit criss-cross legged on the ground when you pick a long enough skirt. Although the one I’m wearing is an investment piece, you can easily grab other options below! I rounded up a ton of them starting at $35. Also, don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter and win a free Younique MOODSTRUCK EPIC 4D Mascara!

How to Wear Converse Sneakers with a Dress

Did you know that the most popular post I’ve done in 10 years was how to wear converse sneakers if you’re petite! Month after month that single post gets more views than any other piece of content. I figured it was long overdue to share a follow-up to that post with how to wear converse sneakers with a dress. Because… spring is coming! Today I’m going to give tips for anybody's height or shape! These are pretty universal and perfect for getting organized for Spring Break this year. Here are a few ways tips for how to wear converse sneakers with a dress.

Cozy Rose and Mocha Outfit

Oh my goodness what a great weekend! Felt like the first weekend in a long time that my daughter and I had the chance to just kick back and spend time home together. On Saturday, I got dolled up and took us out to brunch at 1 pm at The Cookshack which opened recently in College Station. Somewhat limited menu, revolving around chicken and waffles, cute modern atmosphere, and huge portions. You could easily split a portion if you eat on the lighter side. We both got the chicken and waffles and picked our sides out accordingly. I recommend stopping by one of these if you live near one! I wore the cutest pink and mocha ensemble. I paired this roomy baby doll tunic top with a rose-colored coat. I love the combo of rose pink and mocha brown. They compliment one another so much! I paired it with an oversized envelope clutch, over-the-knee boots, and vegan leather pants. I have to say, this pair of leggings has gotten a lot of use this season. They are lined lightly and feel great on chilly days. Hope you all had a great weekend! I’ll be back to share more travel and spring break inspo as the week goes on!

The Perfect Black Shirt Dress from Amazon

After years of searching for a classic black shirt dress leave it to Amazon the Drop for creating what I consider the perfect one! I recently ordered this beautiful piece and put it on as soon as it came in. I recommend sizing down one size if you want it to be more fitted like I am sharing in these photographs. The dress is under $60 and comes in three colors. It took everything in me not to order a second one as soon as this one arrived. The fabric is made of lightweight but good quality cotton that’s breathable. It has a pretty cutout in the back and can be worn without a belt. The cutout has an elastic waist so it conforms to your body. I have more of an hourglass shape so a lot of shirt dresses gape at the chest and are baggy around the waist. Not this one! It fits just right in all the necessary areas.

The Most Comfortable Pump on the Planet

After years of wearing heels at all hours of the day and night for work, fun and special occasions I am here to tell you I think I found the mecca for shoes. Ah-em… welcome to Sarah Flint! A few years ago I came across Sarah’s pumps when I was following another blogger. The brand claimed they have the most comfortable heels period. When Sarah reached out for me to meet her PR team, I was elated. I had been toying with the idea to buy a pair. Let’s just put it this way… I’m now on my fourth pair. The shoes absolutely lived up to what they said they would be. Whether you are looking to wear as a guest to a wedding or maybe you have an important interview coming up these are the pumps that will let you walk like a woman!

Candy Colored Shirt Dress

My daughter and I headed out last night for a girl’s night complete with a trip to Hey Sugar and then crepes from our favorite place in town called Sweet Paris. We love coming to this little area in town. The candy store carries almost everyone treats you could possibly imagine and they even have gelato! I thought it would make the perfect background to share this colorful striped shirtdress. A classic shirt dress is one of the best pieces you can invest in for Spring. This dress would be perfect for a baby or bridal shower, a daytime wedding, brunch with the girls, and even a picnic. It has just the perfect amount of volume and is cropped to show off whatever shoes you fancy. I decided to pull out my new Sarah Flint perfect 85 pumps in a classic nude. These pumps are made to walk in all day with tons of cushion and a reinforced heel.

Red Outfit Ideas for Valentine's Day This Year

Valentine’s Day whether I’ve been single or in a relationship is actually one of my favorite days of the year. Although I believe that love should be celebrated every day, I also find the holiday fun since it involves candy, colorful outfits, and a fantastic dinner with atmosphere. Whether you are going to be a party of one or you are looking for a hotspot around your city… a new outfit for the occasion always makes for a better day.