A Day of Silence For Japan, WIth Love

Please visit For Japan With Love for more information and to make a donation.

My Little Pot of Gold

I want to thank Katy, of Think Pretty Thoughts, for not only introducing me to this wealth of information about food, but also for spending 3+ hours with me on a Skype date, last night. She and I talked like old friends, got to know so much about each other, and she taught me SO.MUCH about fitness and food intake. I'm happy to have Katy as a friend, confidant, and as my very own little personal trainer. Love you, girl! No, really. I love you more.

Next, HAPPY St. PATRICK'S DAY!

Husband's and my schedule wasn't conducive to working out a photo shoot this morning, so I asked one of my coworkers to take my pics in the hallway! So picturesque, right? I couldn't skip out on proving that I wore green, today, though! I hear virtual pinches hurt even worse than pinches IRL. Have you heard that? Either way, I'm not willing to find out! I'm all about these babies!

floral dress: Old Navy

navy cami: Old Navy

apple green cardi: APT. 9, via Kohl's

light blue tights: c/o We Love Colors

wedges: SBICCA, via Ross (shopping trip with Rochelle!)

I *broke* my shopping ban to purchase this dress, last weekend! I know. Shocking. I allowed myself to spend a whopping $9 on myself. Oh yeah, nine buckaroos, friends! Who else would have passed it up?

Not me, friends. Not me.

Mansome Monday: No Need for a Name

It's days like these when I'm extremely thankful to have a Monday featured writer. Little S. passed her virus to Momma and I'm holed up in bed. Yay! Rest assured, I'm getting better much more quickly than the small fry did, because I'm of the age and understand that hydration is defying of this nasty thing! I know I've kept him hostage too long, so without further ado, here's your man!

HHHEEYYYY GIRL! Mansome is BACK! How exciting is that? It is like the last 3 Super Bowls, the last 5 Final Fours, the last 7 World Series, and last 4 World Cups… COMBINED! I am sorry for the lay-off (really, he's only been off for one week, and the week before, I slacked and didn't post his entry- BAD editor!), this is one of the MANY times where “we were on a break” is perfectly acceptable. I have been traveling spreading the Mansome word (I know it is Lent but why not NOT give something up but take on a challenge? And try to make yourself more Mansome/Womansome?) Right now there are tears of joy out there in cyber world, but also there are some emotions of sadness/hysteria (we had no idea what to do with ourselves, right, readers??) out of fear that I was not around. Ladies,… and gentlemen, I will never leave you; your Fashion Poppa will always be there for you, helping you develop the most essential part of your life: your Mansome/Womansome style (phew!).

I am excited to tell you that I have taken a new job position at the University where I work; I have been promoted to Heir of High Fashion (oh my gosh... I was scared for a moment- thought he was leaving me!)! It is my job to interview and evaluate EVERY new applicant, as they tour the school, on their fashion attire. My job requires me to be inconspicuous so I cannot go into too much detail but I have learned two things. #1 There are a lot of applicants that will NOT be admitted, not based on applications but on their fashion sense. #2 Camouflage cost $$, I don’t know how G.I. Joe does it!

Now normally, I am excited for Mondays but today I am dragging. Our University had spring break last week, yes, I still get spring break (how great is that! You might want to reevaluate your career choice). Between not having to be in the office last week and day light savings time I am really feeling it today. But that does NOT stop me from looking fabulously Mansome (you are a stronger person than I)!

My outfit today is a causal spin on classic dapper threads. I am wearing my dark denim jeans from American Eagle, a J. Crew white button down dress shirt, and an Express white with black stripes vest. My shoes are my old black Sketcher boots. Seriously, how great do I look? But here is the best part of the outfit… my cologne; I am wearing Gio by Giorgio Armani. Go ahead put your nose to your screen, yup that’s all Mansome you smell (I stopped by the office to get some things done, this morning, and in just walking past Jason's office, I thought he smelled really, really good!)!

Outfit name: No Need for a Name – Why? Because words can’t describe how great this outfit and I go together … BOOOM!

Thanks again for all of the follows! Keep your comments and questions coming! Continue reading Fashion Momma’s blog and following us on twitter, FashionMomma22 and JWFaulkner! Have a good week and see you Monday BOOM!

 

... and Jason

FBFF: It Takes Time

 Good morning, Sunshines!
Today's FBFF post is about finding a balance between blogging and... well, the rest of life. This is something we all struggle with, because blogging, for most of us, is our passion and our creative outlet. Katy posed some questions that I honestly think about, daily. I was glad to answer and also wonder what everyone else will say! I have a feeling most of us are in the same boat. 
 For more information about FBFF and to see this week's participants and their answers, check out Katy's blog, Modly Chic. 

I also want to shout from the rooftops, a big, resounding "THANK YOU," to my friends at The Clothes Hound, for featuring me as one of their "Real Women, Real Fashion... bloggers" today!
What an honor! 

  yellow tank: Filene's Basement (don't know the brand)

green cardigan: Old Navy

black slacks: Old Navy

herringbone peep-toe heels: Predictions, via Whitney

belt: J.Crew, via Whitney

drop earrings: House of Harlow, giveaway prize from Walk of Fashion!

{one}

When it comes to prioritizing your life, in what place does blogging fall? 

  Blogging probably comes higher on the list of my priorities than it should, honestly. I spend a lot of time and energy thinking about posts, doing photos, editing, posting, and trying my very best to stay in contact with my readers, as well as with the writers of blogs that I follow. Being a mom, a wife, working full time, and blogging are my top four most important things. The first two are in order. The second two might not be... That's up for you to decide.

{two}

We all wish we had more free time to dedicate to blogging and all it entails. What are your tricks for taking advantage of the time you do have to be as productive as possible? 

 Well, my husband works nights, so after I put my daughter to bed and while he's at work, I choose my outfits and organize my closet in such a way that I can grab an entire outfit in the morning. My husband takes my photos on the way to work and if he's not off that morning, I take them before I leave the house. I (usually) post to my blog first thing in the morning, when I get to work. Shh (and for all of you who work with me- it's not like you didn't know! ;) ) ... Staying in touch with everyone is the most difficult and time consuming part of blogging, but it's also the most rewarding. And that, my friends, is why everyone needs a smart phone. My iPhone keeps me in touch via facebook, twitter, and email, at all times!

{three}

Have you discovered any short-cuts that makes blogging easier or more time efficient? 

Is there really a valid short-cut to doing something and doing it well?

{four}

Do you have an editorial calendar or something similar that helps you plan ahead? 

I don't, but it's something I've been considering. I've been coming up with a lot of on-a-whim post ideas, but I lose them before writing them down, because I usually come up with things while I'm working. If I could jot everything down on a notepad and make a calendar, I think my blog would be a lot more organized. That being said, I also really like the feel of my blog and how my writing is conversational and about what's going on, literally, right now.... or last night... or this morning. You know what I mean? I think that's what's relatable about me, so I don't want to compromise that with a bunch of tutorials or editorial pieces that aren't necessarily my style. Does that even make any sense?

I do have some how-to pieces that I'm working on, though! And don't worry- they're very me! 

{five}

If time wasn’t an issue what you would be doing on your blog/for your blog that you aren’t doing now?

Absolutely! I would be networking a heck of a lot more! I would make the time to really (and I mean REALLY) learn Photoshop. I would scout out more photo locations, learn better tripod techniques, study poses, do my makeup and hair more often (but hey, that also wouldn't really be "me," would it?). I would probably live on Twitter (or do I, already?). I would try to do more question/answers on the blog, which is something I'm trying to put together right now. So, in short, yes. Yes, I would do a lot more!

In other, very exciting, news... 
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BEST FRIEND!
I love you!
27's not so bad, as far as I can tell... :)  

I've Rusted the Legs

Not really... Don't worry. They still work. Just need a bit of oil.

Okay, I'm just kidding, again. My legs aren't rusted. They're just RUST! I have been pining after Rust colored tights from We Love Colors, and I absolutely adore them! I actually had a really difficult time styling the color, because I envision it in a fall palette. It was really difficult for me to "spring" it up and not divert to pairing it with yellows and blacks. Last night, I was standing in my closet, very perplexed, Rust tights in hand. I asked Husband, "What the heck do I wear this color with?" He said, "Uh... black." People, this is from the Pantone-loving artist. Are you kidding me? If Rust tights had him stumped, I was in for a tough job.

So, how do you think I did?

magenta floral dress: American Eagle

slate blue/grey cardigan: Old Navy

rust tights: We Love Colors

orange slingbacks: Lela Rose, via Whitney 

(if you haven't noticed, Whitney hands down some awesome shoes!)

Sorry I've been so MIA this week, friends! I was actually on Spring Break from work, Monday through Wednesday. I had some time off with Husband, so I was hoping to really tackle some serious spring cleaning around the house. Unfortunately, Little S. was very, very sick and she stayed home with me on Monday. I took her to daycare on Tuesday, but she got sent home. I promise, she was 110% on Tuesday morning! Poor kiddo just had a stomach bug she couldn't shake. It didn't hit her again, until later in the afternoon that day. So, we picked her up at 3:00 on Tuesday and kept her home, again, yesterday. For everyone who's been checking up on her, thank you! She's much better, today. Just exhausted. Poor munchkin fell asleep in the car on the way to daycare, today! Rest assured, when she got there, she was a little groggy, but ready to get back into routine!

I can't love this picture... but Husband told me to spin. And for him, I did!

 I have to love these shoes. Love. Love. Love.

 

I hope you all are having an absolutely wonderful Thursday! I'm so glad I only have to work two days before the weekend. Now, to tackle my inbox... oy!

If you haven't checked out my interview on Emilina Sassperina, yet, you should head over there, now! Stick around for a while, give her blog a read! You'll love her!

Featured on Emilina Sassperina, Today!

Friends, I do plan to have a regular post for you, this evening!

However, my new and sweet friend, Emily, has featured me in a blogger spotlight over at 

Emilina Sassperina!

I can't get over how darn CUTE she is!

Please go check it out. Her questions were awesome!

If you're not already a follower of Emilina Sassperina, you should definitely give her blog a read! She's adorable, inspirational, has very creative style, and also blogs about her weight loss journey, which you all know is something dear to my heart.

Thanks, Emily!

GIVEAWAY WINNER!!!

First of all, I want to thank all of my amazing readers and everyone who entered the giveaway. This has definitely been my most exciting one, yet, and I'm blessed to have all of you to celebrate with!

The 163 (valid, yes, I checked every.single.one!) entries were overwhelming and I am so thankful for all of you!

And now, the news everyone has been on the edge of their seats about for a week:

Congratulations, Caitlin!!!

I've already emailed the winner and she has 24 hours to email me back!

Another winner will be chosen, if I do not hear back within 24 hours.

Once again, thank you to EVERYONE who entered and thank you for reading. You all are so motivating and inspirational. I hope you know how much I appreciate you!

And if you didn't win, don't be sad! I'm working on some exciting new giveaways for the near future!

FBFF: You're Beautiful, It's True

Today's topic for Fashion Beauty Friend Friday is Beauty Products.

I have to admit, I'm definitely more into clothing and accessories than products, but as the days pass, I get more and more interested. I'm especially a fan of anything that will accentuate my blue eyes and long eyelashes. 

For more information on FBFF, to link up with today's questions, and to read everyone's answers, please visit Katy's blog, Modly Chic!

blazer: Christy Miller via TJ Maxx (or possibly Ross?)

polka dot top: Motherhood (and no, I'm not preggers. It's just cute!)

Adorablogger who IS preggers, though? ANDIE!

blue cami: Faded Glory via WalMart

skinnies: Charlotte Russe

blue bow flats: Gap (from Whitney)

gorgeous, sparkly necklace: Banana Republic (Christmas gift from ML!)

{one}

What's your favorite drug store makeup product and your favorite higher-end product?
 

Well, I don't use many high-end products, just because I'd rather spend my "fun" money on clothes! So, most of my make-up is from the drug store, Target, or WalMart. I have to say that I'm a huge believer in 

L'Oreal's Voluminous Full-Definition Mascara in Black.

My favorite high(ish) end product is definitely my Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey. It's so buildable and goes on sheer, just like a tinted gloss. If you keep layering, though, it gives your lips a soft, beautiful, berry stain. I have to definitely give a big shout-out and THANK YOU to Louise, of Coffee & a Cardigan, for suggesting this product to me. I'm a lifer! I was SO afraid to wear lipstick until this one!

{two}

Is there one type of product that is your go-to, can't live without?

YES! I'm addicted to face cleanser. Am I so weird, or what? Wait... don't answer that. While most women don't leave the house without their lipstick, gloss, or mascara (and trust me, mascara and C.O. Bigelow's methyl lip shine are definitely close to tie for second), I ALWAYS have some sort of skin cleanser or oil blotter with me! I have seriously oily skin, so I really like oil blotters, like the ones from Clean & Clear. They help control and mattify without taking make-up off, which I really appreciate. I also swear by Estee Lauder's Perfectly Clean Splash Away Foaming Cleanser. It's changed my life.

{three}

What's the best hair product you've ever used?

I use Avon's ADVANCE TECHNIQUES Daily Shine Dry Ends Serum every.single.day. I curl, straighten, or blow dry my hair at least every other day, and this stuff is a smoother, anti-frizzer, softener, and shiner upper all in one. Love it!

{four}
Fess up, what's the worst beauty look you've tried to rock and look back at now with a little shame or apprehension that you actually did that? 

Umm.. white eyeliner. Oopsie. When I was a cheerleader in high school, all the Varsity girls wore white eyeliner.ON the TOP lid.Well, at least I thought I was cool. In all reality, I think I looked like a sick little monster. Ahh, retrospect is a beautiful thing.

{five}

When it comes to beauty products, we all use the same basic products. What do you use that helps show off your personal flare and personality? 

 I am really basic with beauty products. In the shower, it's shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. I use the skin cleanser I mentioned above, and my make-up is generally very simple: a little blush, some gloss or lipstick (if I'm brave that day), eyeshadow, and mascara. The one thing I really do like to play around with is eyeshadow. I like to come up with different combinations, highlights, accentuate my crease, and play with colors that accentuate my blue eyes and yellow flecks around my pupils! I always try to make sure, if I don't have time for make-up, that I at least wear mascara. I'm thankful for my long, flirty lashes, and I never want to discount their ability to make me look awake, even if it's a fib.

Don't forget, friends! You have until MIDNIGHT, tonight, to enter my giveaway!

Hurry! Go! Do it!

And then have a WONDERFUL weekend!

Posh on the Sidewalk

Last night, Husband said, "I already have tomorrow's location picked out." 

Instant pressure! What colors do I have to work with? Is it modern? Shabby? Outdoors? All I got was "Grey with a red stripe." Well, I don't think he could have described it any better than that... I showed him four outfits and he approved this one. I didn't want to match the background, but I wanted to be simple.

Have I ever told you all how much I love my man? I swear, no one (other than my mom) understands me better. I sat up with him until 2 a.m., discussing life and things I want to do/work on/change, goals for the next few years, things I want to do with him and how I want us to participate in things together. It was such a great conversation and he was so receptive. Sometimes, I'm totally afraid I'm going to bombard him and he'll shut down. I don't get to spend a lot of quality time with Husband, you see, because he works night shift and we're on a wonky schedule. So when I DO get to see him, I feel like I have word vomit, and pack his brain full of a week's worth of thoughts/information/events. He took it so well. I love you, babe.

And once, again, I have to thank you for finding my beauty in a way that I haven't known how to, through today's photos.

blue dress (worn as tunic): Posh via Catalog Connection (local boutique)

leopard cardigan: APT. 9 via Kohl's

grey slacks: New York & Company

black patent heels: Bandolino via Ross (gifted from Rochelle)

We took Little S. to Sonic, last night, to play with her cousin on the big playground. They were so sweet together. Cousin was helping Little S. climb the stairs, go over the bridge, and go down the big slide. They held hands and slid down, together a few times, until Little S. felt comfy doing it, herself. But Cousin was never far behind. And always there to help when S. called. It was adorable. And it was good to catch up with Clarke's cousin and his wife. We live so close to each other, and originally, Little S. and Cousin were in daycare, together. But now Cousin goes to big girl school, and we miss out on seeing them too often! I think the mommies and girls are going to get together this weekend!

Don't forget to enter my giveaway!

 

 

If you've been holding off, don't do it any longer! Tomorrow's the last day!

A Flower on Top

First day, EVER, posting an outfit that I didn't wear the day of the post. Let me tell you, it feels weird! Husband wasn't here in the morning, yesterday, so I waited until the afternoon to let him take my pictures, instead of trying and failing miserably to take my own. Good thing it worked out this way, because Little S. got to have the whole spotlight during her Trendy Tots Tuesday post, and I have photos to show you on a day that I didn't take any! 

No today outfit, you ask? Nope! I had a "medical day," and spent my entire day going to various doctors and taking care of some personal items on my "to-do" list. Wasn't exactly the most exciting day of all days, but I'm pleased with how things went, and I'm proud to say that I'll be the recipient of a PERMANENT crown on my tooth in the near future. Yes, my friends. The PAIN is GONE! I won't go into the details of the rest of my appointments, but I'll just tell you I'm happy.

 polka dot dress (worn as skirt): New York & Company

flower embellished sweater: Lauren Conrad via Kohl's

flat boots: Payless

earring: gift from ML (thanks, lady!)

I have a lovely friend I want you to check out, by the way...

Jessica, of Surely Sonsy. So.Flipping.Cute.

And have you checked out Two in Technicolor, 

featuring Folake Huntoon, of Style Pantry?

Read Folake's interview!

Collette and I are the duo behind Two in Technicolor and we're setting out to find out what some sweet bloggeristas think about We Love Colors!

Don't forget to enter my big 300 Follower Giveaway! 

You have 'til Friday night! And trust me, you don't want to miss this one.