Thankful.

Friends, I'm so thankful for you! Even though I've been in and out as far as blogging goes, you all still check up with me on Twitter, which I absolutely appreciate. I'm still here! I'm still blogging. I'm still racking my brain about the DIRECTION this blog is going to take while I'm not getting "dressed" every day. Or even twice a week, at that.

I'm thinking about the recipes I've been making and the activities I've been doing with Little S... I know I have some mommy blog readers out there that would hopefully be interested in my moving that direction. I'll throw personal style in there whenever I have a shining opportunity. Crafting is becoming a big part of my life these days, too. So I'd love to share more of that with you. My Etsy shop is doing quite well, and of that, I'm proud. It's definitely helping with the never-ending stack of bills.

Speaking of the shop, enter the discount code HOLIDAYS11 at checkout between now and December 23 and get 20% off of your entire purchase! That's a good deal!

There's just so much going on right now. I look back at the last year and I've never let *anything* get between me and the keyboard to share my life with you. I've been blogging at least three times a week and mostly 5-6 times a week for two years and, well... life came at me fast over the past few months. Things are changing, life is happening, holidays are coming, family is of the utmost importance. Little S. is getting so big. She's taking herself potty and having full conversations. The other day, she came out of her room and said, "I'm so angry at Foofa! She is still in my bed and didn't take a nap ALL DAY!" Really, kid? And just now, as she was drawing on her chalk board (best Christmas gift I've ever thought of), she said, "I drew an airplane right beside the earth!" And heck if she didn't draw a circle with designs on it and an oval with wings beside it. What the heck? And who taught her the word "beside?"

So, while my entire world continues to spin at a rapid pace and as I try to keep up, I'm going to go make THIS delicious recipe: Revolutionary Mac & Cheese. The skim milk version, FYI. Big thanks to Collette for pinning it, because the Lord only knows how at a loss I was for dinner ideas when I got home. Add some broccoli and we've got a meal!

Black, White, & Red All Over

When one does not get dressed often, one finds it necessary to put on some red lips. One = me, by the way. I bought my very first red lipstick, ever, and I'm sort of obsessed. I had no idea how blue my eyes would look with red lips! And I feel so Christmas-y! Or... perhaps that's the undecorated tree behind me.

lipstick: Jet Setter by Rimmel

sweater: New York & Company

skirt: Thrifted

booties: Payless

handbag: Dama Handbags, giveaway win from TFD

I realize I haven't been much of an outfit poster lately and I'm working on changing that! It really is tough when I don't have many reasons to "get dressed." So many stay-at-home-moms have told me that when they stay home, they really do dress to impress and I hope I can do the same when I start staying home in March. However, when I'm caring for four toddlers, ages 1, 2, 3, and 4, and doing dishes, preparing meals, cleaning up all the time, I swear it's yoga pants, sweats, and t-shirts. So once I begin staying at home and caring for one toddler, cleaning up, preparing meals, oh... and throw taking care of two dogs in there, we'll see if I can manage. In the meantime, I'll be sure to photograph EVERY single weekend outfit I ever wear. Okay, I'll try really hard!

And in case you were missing Little S. -

Obviously, she's missing you, too!

If you need to do some holiday shopping or holiday decorating, I know a GREAT PLACE.

Lulu's Dress Giveaway Winner!

Congratulations to Erika! You won the Lulu's dress giveaway! I will send you a message and get in touch about shipping information!

I hope everyone is having a fantastic weekend so far! My family is here picking up their new dog that we adopted for them! She has no idea (the dog) how awesome her life is going to be! Be back on Monday to share an outfit!

Guest Post: Megan of The Frugalista Diaries

5 Things A Stylish Mom Should Have ...

Being a mom is no excuse for not being fashionable, because as a mom of 2 rambunctious boys I know that it's completely possible and practical. Now I'm not saying you have to wear heels and dress up every days to be stylish, because you don't. Here are 5 things every stylish mom needs in her life....

1. A Maxi Dress

One of the most versatile pieces in your closet next to the little black dress is the maxi, it can be dressed up, dressed down, worn as a skirt and is always in fashion. I can't go a week without wearing one. Plus they come in an array of colors and prints, and always add a little bit of bohemian elegance to your style, whether you're playing with the kids at the park or catching up with your girlfriends over lunch.

2. A Good Pair Of Jeans

Jeans are obviously the easiest piece to have in your wardrobe, you can wear them with just about anything depending on the wash and style, which is why mom's should own at least one pair of "Good Fitting Make You Feel Like a Million Bucks" Jeans. Shopping for jeans can either make or break one's day, we all hate that dreaded feeling that it's not going to look good or fit, remember what works for one person doesn't always work for you, and that's fine because clearly you're fabulous too. So try one different fits, you might be surprised how good it looks, and don't be discouraged if it doesn't, your 'fit' is out there, promise!

3. A Great Big Fabulous Bag

You know to hold all that mom stuff inside, whether it's snacks, toys, diapers and wipes, we all have a load to carry for our little ones, why not look stylish while doing so.  Totes, satchels and carry alls now come in amazing shapes, prints and prices, making it easier to add a little pop of style.

4. When In Doubt Wear Red

When you're having one of those blah days going through your closet and feel like you  have "nothing to wear", look for the first splash of red to brighten your day, whether it's a pair or ballet flats, a colorful clutch or even a red top or dress. I guarantee you'll leave the house in a better, more confident mood.

5. A Sturdy Yet Chic Pair of Wedges (or Heels)

Sometimes heels aren't the most practical of shoe choices for chasing kids around, but it doesn't mean they should exist in your closet.  Wedges are the easiest to wear, and can be found in a number of heights from 1'' to 5'', plus they can be worn with just about everything. 

I hope you liked my 5 Things Every Stylish Mom should have and I hope you visit me over at The Frugalista Diaries for Outfit Ideas, Designer Looks For Less,  Recipes, DIYS and more!

xo Megan

A big thanks to my IRL friend, Megan, for popping in to guest post for me! Isn't she amazing? And don't forget to enter for your chance to win my Lulu's dress. The giveaway ends tomorrow!

Guest Post: Kat from Mary and Dyer

Good morning, readers! In continuation of a week of fashionable mommas, I'd like to welcome Kat to the blog! Her beauty and talent are only small reasons you'll adore her blog, Mary and Dyer! Just wait 'til you "meet" her family! Thanks for guest posting, Kat! I'm so glad to have found you and your awesome blog!

Hello readers of A Little Bit of This! I am Kat from Mary and Dyer and I am so excited to be guest blogging for Kimberly today! It is so fun for me to find other Mommy/Fashion Bloggers.

We all know how hard it is to just get through the day with kids, let alone find time to focus on our beauty, our fashion, and ourselves. I am lucky that my daughter is a little fashionista herself, so shopping, painting nails, and doing makeup becomes quality Mommy & me time. Here are some OOTD pictures that I recently took of our matching Mommy & Me Missoni Skirts. I love them! I’m thinking they might be our Thanksgiving outfits… ☺

Me:
Top: White House Black Market
Skirt: Missoni for Target
Boots: G for Guess
Necklace: Mary and Dyer

On Mckenna:
Top: H&M
Skirt: Missoni for Target
Shoes: Gap

I’m not the biggest advocate of Mommy & Me matching outfits all of the time, but when I saw these Missoni skirts I knew that we had to have them!!

I hope that you liked the pictures! I would love for you to hop on over to my blog and say hello! I love meeting new blog friends. I also just opened an online boutique this last week and I would really appreciate it if you checked that out too!! Thanks so much and I look forward to talking to you all soon!!

Blessings,
Kat
xoxox

Guest Post: Jasmine of AdamAlexMommy

When I put out a call on Twitter for momma style bloggers to help me out with a week of guest posts, the beautiful Jasmine of AdamAlexMommy was the first to volunteer her time and talents. Thank you SO much, girl! I'm so glad to be able to lean on my fellow bloggers in a time of need (for REST!). Jasmine is not only gorgeous, but is always finding time not only to share her awesome wardrobe, but also her family with us. Read on and be sure to visit her adorable blog! Thanks so much for stepping in, girl!

Mossimo sweater poncho ($24.99) | Xhilaration jeggings ($3.24) | earrings ($3.49)

Merona flower-detail cardigan ($7.49) | Merona wrap dress ($7.49) | J.Crew leopard belt (24.99)

Mossimo safari dress ($14.99) } Calypso for Target necklace ($9.99)

Merona floral shirt ($7.49) | Calypso for Target silk scarf ($6.49)

(Photos property of AdamAlexMommy.  All Rights Reserved.)

Hello, everyone!  I'm Jasmine of AdamAlexMommy, and I am very excited to guest-blog for "a little bit of this" blog.  I am a SAHM of two kids (5 & 2 yrs), and I refuse "to let go" just because my job is to stay home and take care of the kids.  

I believe that everyone can look fabulous with a bit of effort in putting together your look.  Comfort is key for me, since I am always chasing after my kids.  Instead of reaching for sweats and sweatshirts, I try to find pieces that flatter my frame while being comfortable at the same time.  I am petite, and I find that wearing leggings, skinny jeans or slimmer pants elongates my legs.  I love wearing dresses over leggings and skinny jeans, and absolutely love layering.   You can bring out any outfit by having fun with accessories--your look can go from bland to fabulous with just one accessory.  It doesn't have to match all the time... so wear bright earrings for a pop of color that doesn't match your shirt at all; or throw on a belt over your cardigan, which is a very different pattern than your dress or skirt; and wear a statement necklace or a multi-color scarf to for that extra "stylish" factor.  :)

And looking great doesn't have to cost much.  All the pieces I am wearing here are from Target, and with the exception of the sweater poncho (first photo), all the items were found on the clearance rack, which was marked down at least twice. (I am wearing the same jeggings in all the photos.)  Experiment with fashion and have fun with it.  We, women are fabulous, and it is our party!  :)

Guest Post: Meredith of Yours, Mine & Ours

Good morning, a little bit of this readers! I hope everyone had a fantastic weekend. I had a lot of quality family time, spent two days with my dear new friend, M., adopted a dog for my parents (photos to come!), crafted my heart out, and lined up some wonderful guest posters for you this week! I have had some personal things going on lately that have taken my attention away from the blog. As much as I hate that (since I love YOU!), I've had to re-prioritize a bit and I knew taking a week off would help me get things in gear. That said, Monday-Thursday this week, you'll be graced by the writings of some of my favorite momma style bloggers. Today, you'll meet Meredith of yours, mine & ours! She's kind of amazing. Just sayin'. Stay tuned the rest of the week to meet some ladies you'll be sure to love! Thanks, Meredith! You're always such an awesome friend!

Hey guys! I'm Meredith and I blog over at yours, mine & ours.

If I had to sum up what I'm all about in a few words I'd say: modest, mom, and cheap thrifty.

Today the topic is fitting style into motherhood. I have a two year old little boy and he is where the wild things are. All day I'm playing sports, wiping up food, building forts and praying nap time would hurry up and come already. He's a handful and I love him. But I also love fashion. How do I mesh the two of them together? 

Here are the top three things that come to mind for me:

1. Buy second hand. I've been a thrifter my whole life and after having a kid I'm even more so. If something of mine gets stained beyond belief I don't freak out, it was most likely 2 bucks (not to say that we're intentionally messy/wasteful over here but stains happen). 

2. You CAN wear heels ... but choose wisely. I love my heels and wedges. I don't love crushing tiny toes that might be underfoot. (True story. :( I know!) So I wear my fun shoes when appropriate/safe: girls night out, church, date night, to the store, etc. Basically, if my little one has shoes on and I'm in the mood, heels it is. Safety first, as always.

3. It's OK to wear sweats occasionally. I said it!! With all the awesome fashion blogs out there, I think we sometimes feel like failures if we don't get ready every.single.day. Your style isn't just gonna disappear if you decide to phone it in sometimes. I agree that getting ready helps me get more done and be productive overall, but a good lounge wear day helps be re-boot sometimes too. As long as it's not an everyday thing, I say pull on those sweats and snuggle with your kid (if they'll hold still!). You can always top knot and lipstick it tomorrow.

Style and motherhood: best friends? Not always but definitely on very good terms. Good luck ladies!


Hi, it's Kimberly, again! Isn't Meredith awesome? I LOVE her!
Know who else I love? LULA of Lulapalooza Designs! If you're not stopping by for the first time today, you'll notice I have a brand spankin' new blog design and it's all thanks to Lula and her awesome talent! She asked me some questions, I gave her my inspiration ideas, and out popped this amazing *so ME* design! I'm very excited to have a look that I can grow with. Thank you so much to Lulapalooza Designs! And if you're looking for a beautiful, efficient, talented, and affordable blog designer, I highly recommend Lula! You definitely will not be disappointed!

Holiday Time in the Shop!

Like most Etsy shop owners, I've been hard at work getting ready for the holidays! There are FIVE very special Christmas wreaths available in A Little Bit of This Etsy Shop today and I am excited to share a sneak peek with you!

Be Merry - $20.00

Gilded Holidays - $30.00

Sparkling Berries - $34.00

My personal favorite!

Winter Wonderland - $30.00

Perfect for a silvery blue Christmas!

Holly and Ivy - $34.00

And if you're all set for Christmas decorating but need a gift for your friend (or yourself!), check out the two newest rosette bib necklaces in the shop!

The Harper - $12.50

The Julia - $18.00

If you've been eyeing the Lindsay in Autumn wreath, it just went on sale from $22.50 to $18.50!

Old to New WINNERS!

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Old to New in October refashion series with Natasha and me! We really enjoyed hosting the project and working on our own refashions as well! We are happy to announce the three winners of the Anika Burke prize packages!

Megan - The Frugalista Diaries - Sparkled Button Up DIY
- First place (most creative/wearable): $20 credit to www.anikaburke.com PLUS the Elegant Rose flower bracelet and two matching accessories!


Lia - Smart N Snazzy - Old Sweater to New Sweater DIY- Random draw: 12 piece prize pack (12 Anika Burke accessories!)


Bri - Shoes Are My Muse - Peplum Vest DIY- Random draw: 3 piece prize pack (3 Anika Burke accessories!)


Please contact me or Natasha via email with your shipping address so Anika Burke Eclectic Boutique can send your prizes! Once again, thank you to everyone who put forth the effort to participate in our project. We really enjoyed sharing our refashions with all of you!

One Man's Trash

Sometimes your friends buy clothes and they don't fit. Then you inherit the clothes. Enter this beautiful and colorful Charlotte Russe top that my bff, Jackie, passed down to me over the weekend. Although I was sad that things didn't work out for her, I was elated that they turned into good fortune on my part. This baby had a tie waist, which I just cut off so I could add belts for shape wherever I wanted (lower or higher). The weather was warm enough to not have to wear a sweater or jacket last night, so I got dressed for bible study and knew I could pull this shirt off without having to cover the pretty sleeves with a cardigan (although, that would work too!)

Husband was playing with indoor lighting and the flash since it's so dark outside when he gets home these days. Although the flash washes me out, I think it's probably the best indoor option. The rest are grainy and I really can't dig that.

top: Charlotte Russe, via Jackie

cami: Old Navy

jeans: Old Navy

belt: Old Navy

wedges: Lower East Side

The lesson today is: If you find something beautiful in your closet that no longer fits, pass it on to someone you know could get some good mileage out of it! That's pretty much what I'm doing with my Lulu's dress giveaway! Got it. Tried it. Doesn't work! That means one of YOU can win it!

Enter to win my brand new Lulu's dress!

Lulu's Dress Giveaway!

Hi, my friends! I have to seriously apologize for being MIA in the blog scene this week. My schedule's been out of whack and I've been very lucky to be home with Little S. for two days in a row! We've been crafting, learning to write letters, learning to write her name, doing laundry, going to the park, and working on the Etsy shop for the holidays! I had no idea how time consuming it would all be, but I haven't had a chance to photograph my outfits or any of Little S', so that's why I'm just now showing up! Hope you haven't missed me too much (but then again, I really hope you have)!

Because you all are so awesome and I have... well, a waistline situation, I want to hold a giveaway for this really hot Lulu's dress that I actually won in a giveaway from Megan! I ordered the dress, which is one of my FAVORITE colors right now (teal) and intended to wear it for my anniversary dinner in September, but it didn't arrive on time. Not that it mattered, because when I did receive it, it just didn't fit! Let's face it, those "typical" size Larges aren't for me.

Here's the beauty! It's no longer available on the Lulu's website, but it's available right here! Tags are still on (they were a bit scratched when I received it in the mail- no worries. My dogs didn't chew them!

So, if you're a Lulu's size Large, go 'head and leave me a comment and tell me where you would wear this dress! That's ALL you have to do. Giveaway is open to US readers only (because I haven't figured out how to ship anywhere else, yet. I'm working on it.) and will close on Thursday, November 17 at 11:59 ET. I will announce the winner the following Friday morning! Good luck!

Yellow Buttercup eShakti Review

I was contacted by eShakti a while ago and was asked if I'd like to try a piece from their online store. eShakti means "power of the internet" and that's exactly what this site gives us. With sizes ranging from 0 to 4X and most items available for customization, every woman can find something! I was so excited to hear from the company because I have such a difficult time finding clothes that fit me properly. While scouring eShakti, it literally took me a week to choose my item. I ended up picking the beautiful Scallop Tiers Shift Dress, which was available in yellow at the beginning of the fall season, but is now only available in black. When I received my parcel in the mail and opened it, I squealed with surprise. This dress is the epitome of a cupcake! Love? I think so.

dress: c/o eShakti

denim jacket: American Eagle

boots: Silhouettes

earrings: gifted from Jen

headband: Goody's via Walgreens

Although my personal measurements fit some standard sizing, I took advantage of customizing this dress and filling out the size chart to have it made perfectly for my body. I think we (Husband, ahem) had an operator error and measured my arms too slimly, but other than that, this dress is absolutely perfect and so comfortable. I wanted the hemline to be longer so I could wear it year-round. And even though the color is summery, accessorized with a pair of boots and a jacket, I think it looked perfectly fall. Now, if any of you have some awesome winter styling ideas for this little number, I'd love to hear them!

Check out eShakti online for thousands of styles that you can order off the rack or have created to fit your body perfectly! For more information and specials, "like" eShakti on Facebook and follow them on Twitter!

And I can't leave this post without thanking my best friend, Jackie, of Jackie Ranson Photography, for taking these beautiful photos. You are amazing!