A(nother) Monochromatic Outfit
One of the easiest ways to get dressed, especially when you just don't know what to wear, is just to pick a color and wear that.
5 Ways To Style A Black Denim Skirt
Looking for inspiration on how to wear that black denim skirt? Here is five ways you can wear a denim skirt from casual with sneakers to practically office appropriate.
2018 Follower Survey + $25 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway
**SURVEY + GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED** First, you might have noticed that I changed up things up over here (again!) I kinda have this disease… I LOVE changed and redesigning my space here. It’s like being able to redecorate your house, but way cheaper! What attracted me to this layout is the use of photos – […]
8 Ingredients To Always Have On Hand
Here’s the thing, I’m not a meal planner. I DO try, and honestly, when I do it, the thing that has worked the best for me is making a calendar on my iCloud just for meals, and putting meals in the calendar on the day that I’m planning on making them. It’s super easy to […]
Couples Who Brush With An Electric Toothbrush Together…
Kiss more often! Hahah, it’s probably true! I mean, who doesn’t prefer a freshly cleaned mouth to peck?! Both my husband and I tested out the new Smile Brilliant electric toothbrush – the cariPRO! I collaborated with Smile Brilliant before with their teeth whitening systems, so when they asked if I wanted to try their […]
How I Use My Instant Pot, So Far
I totally did NOT buy an Instant Pot last summer, like everyone else. Honestly, I wasn’t totally sure what it was, and why I needed it. But when I moved, I saw my ten year old crock pot in a whole new light…a light that landed it firmly in the trash can. It was time. […]
Every Good Book Club Needs Wine
I love a good book! To me, reading a good book is right up there with eating a really, really...
Red, White and Blue Pops
My little bros l o v e those red, white and blue popsicles. You know the ones that have NO taste. So for...
Books to Read | Summer 2018 Edition
S U M M E R is here! I’ve been living that summer life for a while now, because it was one of the biggest things I missed when I was living in Monterey. But officially now, we can say it’s SUMMER! In all four seasons I can find reasons to read, and for summer, […]
Little Red Dress
If there's a color that I've always loved, it's red. I'm not totally sure why, because as far as bright colors, this is one of them, and I usually shy away from c o l o r, but red seems to be the exception. I don't know if it's because I think it's a super patriotic color (#militaryspouse) or because I think it's a happy color - no matter why, I'm a fan of red.
Black is My Favorite Summer Color
It doesn't actually matter the season, there will be black in my closet. And even though, if there is going to be color, it's most likely to being during summer, I still gravitate to what I love... the color black. I think it's pretty obvious if you look at my outfits. One of the items on my summer wardrobe list was black jean shorts - denim and distressed were the qualifications.
My Summer Swimwear
I am all about the swimsuits this summer! Mainly because I can wear one everyday if I want, because that Colorado sun is so rad. It's been a few summers since I really looked at buying swimsuits so I wasn't totally sure what I wanted. Clearly, the one-piece swimsuits caught my eye. They just make so many good ones now that it's hard to say no.
Mini Sugar Cookie Fruit Tarts
There are all sorts of ways you can make these - what essentially started out as a fruit pizza - but making them in mini cups makes them so much cuter! And anytime I can make a finger food for a BBQ or gathering, I will always choose that!
Hiking in the Paint Mines Interpretive Park
pink rocks... need I say more?
No-Bake Energy Bites
So, I love granola and granola-ish foods. It's kinda similar to my love for eggs... almost always that would be a yes please when it comes to if I would like to eat them. But this is what I've found out about granola. Not all are created equal. And usually, the best ones come from either your kitchen, or your neighbors kitchen.
Why We Covered Our Yard in AstroTurf
fake grass is better than real grass
Current Favs | The Face Edition
This post is totally dominated by the fact that the day after we drove away from Monterey, my face boycotted life. I'll back up. When it comes to skin and skin issues, breakouts have never been my struggle bus. Even when I was pregnant (and hormonal) I didn't break out.
Top 3 Mistakes When Moving
I know you've heard me talk about moving, because, I moved! Okay, I'm about a month from the actual move date, but anyone who has ever moved knows, it's a process that takes a lot longer than just the amount of time it takes to get yourself from the previous place to the new place. Especially if it's an out-of-state or out-of-the-country move.
Road Tripping Through Monument Valley + Arches National Park
If you happen to be planning a trip to Arches National Park, add to that plan, a day to drive around and through Monument Valley. We drove from the Grand Canyon to Arches and made sure that we drove right through Monument Valley, and it was an incredible drive. I can only image how beautiful a sunrise or sunset would be; seeing the sun peak around those rock formations... truly magnificent.
Let There Be Pretty Light
it helps when things are pretty
Couch Decisions
I've talked about it in my Insta stories - over two weeks ago - that I was sitting on the floor because we hadn't picked a couch yet...... Well, I still have yet to purchased one. This is partially because I'm not the most decisive when it comes to big purchases, especially on something that I haven't actually seen in real life. I have this fear of making the wrong decision, and I don't really want to get the couch we buy, wrong.
Arizona | 36 Hours in the Grand Canyon
On our road trip from California to Colorado, we made a point to stop at the Grand Canyon. Because I had never been, and what's a few hours out of the way. To be fair, the Grand Canyon is always out of the way, but completely worth it - in my opinion. We made the choice to stay two nights with the plans of catching a sunrise. I'm laughing even as I write that.. sunrise, me? But as plans often do, they changed and we caught a sunset. It was incredible!
Here’s to You, California
I feel like I'm always leaving a piece of my heart behind, with every move. I think that's why I don't feel like I've gotten any better at moving... it's always hard. It's always hard. But having a positive outlook and being open to letting the new experience be what it may has made a world of difference.
Wearing Camo, Again
I bought these camouflage pants four years ago, but I just recently pulled them out of the back my closet and I can't stop wearing them. A lot of trends do have a repeat season, and if you find a piece that you like, it's worth hanging onto. To me, camo has always felt like a neutral, with a little edge. Whether it's a jacket, pants or shirt, wearing camouflage adds a fun little edge to your wardrobe.
The Tombo Bungalow
I've actually been asked a few questions related to our house, so I wanted to answer those questions and tell you more about what I'm calling, The Tombo Bungalow!
PA | Visiting Gettysburg
The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center is where you want to start. The current film - A New Birth of Freedom narrated by Morgan Freeman - is incredible, and the Cyclorama painting is legit. You can find a map for the tour that takes you to all the Gettysburg battle spots (we've always driven). And, if you schedule your visit right, you can see living history program.
We Bought a House
If you follow me on Instagram, you know that we BOUGHT A HOUSE! Talk about adulting. I haven't talked much about the process, because I wasn't really involved in the process.
Berry Paradise Smoothie
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Homemade Strawberry Cake
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Sunset at Asilomar State Beach
I remember when we first got to Monterey, one of the first place I was so taken with was Asilomar State Beach. I couldn't get over how beautiful it was. It was definitely a different backdrop than what I was used to seeing on a daily basis, but clearly, beautiful.
Spinach Wrap with Hummus
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Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Buttermilk Pancakes
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15 Minutes Super Food Holiday Recipes
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Camping
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Hiking
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Research
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Discover
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Explore
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Shoes to Wear with Cropped Jeans
Cropped jeans are popping up everywhere (and in the dead of winter) and if you get a pair, they'll probably be your most worn pair come spring and summer. There are different styles of cropped jeans from flares to skinnies to split hem to wide leg so most likely, you'll be able to find your favorite style of jean in a cropped version
Christmas Red for Valentines Day (and more!)
One of the colors I've always been drawn to wearing is that bright, cheery Christmas Red! Some might call it Poppy, but I most associate this with Christmas, so I call it Christmas Red.
Adding Color to Your Home
If you're anything like me, your house is filled with those neutral tones, but not a lot of color. And adding color to that neutral palette might feel a little daunting. Because, really what's scarier than color? Practically nothing, right?!? But here's the thing, color isn't all bad.
How to Make Pozole
Pozole is a stew that has hominy (corn) and pork in it, and chilis- all the kinds of chilis. Clearly you can see New Mexico's roots. And while I usually make pozole on New Year, it really can be made all year round, especially if you're looking for a little extra luck.
Tips for Buying Winter Boots
buy Sorel, the end.
Hello 2018
Hey 2018!! I'm back with a post about some recent changes to this space, plus a look at the top five posts from 2017!
Mailing our Christmas Card
Since the husband was my husband, we’ve been doing Christmas cards. And while it started out as an accident, our first Christmas card we used a picture that seems to depict our first year. Since then, we’ve made a point to create a picture each year. We’ve had a lot of fun coming up with different themes and […]
7 Books for the Adventurer
This post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and/or buy something, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own. With Christmas right around the corner, I’ve selected seven books that would make the perfect gift for the adventurer in your life. No judgement if […]
Peppermint Whoopie Pies for the Holidays
As a little nod to my dad and my PA roots, I decided to take the whoopie pie and make a peppermint version! Whoopie pies have Amish roots, and are traditionally two chocolate, cake-like cookies sandwiched tougher with a cream filling.
Whitening Sensitive Teeth At Home
You have to know by now that around here that I’m always up for a good adventure. When I buy clothes, I really do think about clothes are up for adventure. That doesn’t mean that I only have clothes that can hold up to a hike into the mountains. But clothes that keep me comfortable […]
Captain Hook and Mr. Smee
So far, for the three years that I’ve had kiddos for Halloween, I’ve made their costumes! The first two years it was pretty simple pieces, or add ons that I made to make a costume – 2016, 2015 and 2014. Brecken even continued with wearing the “fox” has his first Halloween costume too! So when […]
How to Style Boyfriend Jeans | Without the Cuff
I’m back with my *still* favorite pair of jeans and I have them styled a little differently today. Not only am I wear a more fitted sweater, but I’m rocking these jeans without the cuff. If you were to search boyfriend jeans in Pinterest, you would see that most of the styling has them cuffed. […]
family smiles
A lifestyle family photo session shot at Lover's Point, Pacific Grove.
Should Your Pet’s Food be Grain Free? | R-O-X-A-N-N You don’t have to…
#PetSmart provides the amazing shopping experience to browse the loads of #ProPlanPossibilities with #Purina #ProPlan dog food! My Rhodesian Ridgeback, Roxann, found her unique variety and you can discover yours! #ad #collectivebias
family of four
A lifestyle photo session with a family of four. Featuring fields, trees, and the best kind of smiles.
How to Style Boyfriend Jeans | Oversized Sweater
I’ve always loved a little toughness in my clothes, and usually, I can get that through tomboyish pieces. Which is exactly why I love the boyfriend fit! They’re a great combo of tomboyish and classic, and I literally wear these jeans every chance I get.
Futurama Ipsum & Some Styling
Fry! Stay back! He’s too powerful! I don’t ‘need’ to drink. I can quit anytime I want! Hello, little man. I will destroy you! Kids have names? You won’t have time for sleeping, soldier, not with all the bed making you’ll be doing. When the lights go out, it’s nobody’s business what goes on between […]
The #1 Question about Family Photos
it doesn't matter if I'm going to be the one behind the camera or not, from both clients, friends and family and everyone in between, the number one question I get asked is.... What do we wear for family photos?
How I Put the Healthy into my Meals
When it comes it comes to how I eat, I want it to be healthy...and easy. Oh easy! Because while I do love to cook, I don't want my days to revolved around prepping and cooking what I'm going to eat I could step away from the article or post I was working on early, in order to cook myself a meal, or I could continue to do what I've been doing lately, which is grab a Healthy Choice® Power Bowls and smartwater.
A Day Trip to Avila Beach
A two and a half hour road trip from Monterey will land you at Avila Beach! Just outside of San Luis Obispo, it's a tiny little beach community and just where we go when we want a real beach experience. I say real beach because it's hot enough there to wear a swimsuit...
sunset and smiles
A family lifestyle photo session filled with a beautiful beach sunset and lots of smiles.
7 Ways You can add velvet to your wardrobe
Follow my blog with Bloglovin I’ve been looking through my closet lately, thinking about fall and winter and what I want to wear this season. And I’m super excited that velvet is back with a vengeance again! Here’s the thing about velvet…. texture! Which means I can wear that outdoors and not obsess over every […]
Lake Tahoe for the Weekend
Guys, I love this place. One afternoon after we hiked, we drove around Lake Tahoe. Yes, the whole lake. It’s 71 miles of shoreline and usually broken up into North Tahoe and South Tahoe. I’m not 100% where Incline Village falls (whether North or South -I’d guess North) but regardless, it’s stunning. Arguably one of […]
A new addition
A lifestyle photo session with a one week old baby girl and her family.
10 Instagram Accounts I Follow That Might Surprise You
I am probably on Instagram more than any other social media platform, and it's because I love looking at pictures and videos! And while I do follow some of the standard accounts I've rounded up ten Instagram account that I follow that might surprise you. Because why would I follow a designer who cooks mainly vegan when I eat all the non-vegan things? Or an account based solely on what Kate Middleton wears?
The Best Back to School Outfit
Maybe it's because I grew up in PA (close to New England!) and I've been getting style inspiration from the J.Crew catalogs since middle school, but nothing reminds me of going back to school like a corduroy mini.
Taking An Outfit from Date Night to Adventure Ready
I think how flowy the dress is, along with it's slip dress vibe made the jeans underneath work. And it brought out the 90's vibe and I'm down with that! Combo the dress + jeans + barks and my date night piece became a totally acceptable, and practical outfit for an afternoon with my boys.
repeat offender | three ways to style a jumpsuit
I have another repeat offender! It should look a little familiar because this exact jumpsuit was on my fall favorites list! As soon as it showed up, I immediately tried it one and loved it. And now, falling into the jumpsuit connoisseur category, I think a patterned jumpsuit is much easier to style. Not this floral […]
weekend reading | No.4
A monthly series bringing you favorite links from around the web.
What to Wear to the Beach
LOCATION | Capitola Beach, Capitola CA shorts (like these too!) | tank (similar) | sweatshirt ℅ Tobi | sunglasses but I like these too Before I moved to Monterey, I would have never thought that you would or need to wear anything other than a swimsuit to the beach. But since this coast struggles to hit warm temperatures, I’ve gotten almost zero use out […]
my fall favorites
September is just around the corner, which means fall everything all the time! For fall, I looked at my closet and what I might want to add to it, and I picked out a few fall pieces that have legit potential to be my fall favorites - if I buy them all!
Time for Crêpes + A JORD Wood Watch Giveaway
A lifestyle photo session featuring a JORD wooden watch. Whether you're looking for a gift to give the guy in your life or if you, yourself, would like a beautiful time piece for your wrist, enter the giveaway!!
California | visiting Glass Beach
Glass Beach came about because Fort Bragg used to use a few sites along the coastline as dumps back in the early 1900's. When they stopped, the waves took the glass and pottery dumped there and turned that sections of coast in a beach filled with sea glass.
Where to shop + shop Stevie with Kristianna
Featuring Shop Stevie with Kristianna and her online boutique specializing in limited quantities and beautifully designed, modest, affordable women's fashion.
when to wear that cold shoulder sweater
Here me, I get it. It's a sweater, with holes on the shoulders. And while that might seem like it lands you in the when could I ever wear that category, trust me. There are a lot of places that this sweater is the perfect piece for!
Those Summer Vibes
A lifestyle photoshoot featuring brothers blowing bubbles with their papa.
weekend reading | No.3
A monthly series bringing you favorite links from around the web.
coffee and mom jeans
A pair of A&F mom jeans styled with a simple tank and cardigan.
Example of an Image Gallery
No, no, the Pirate Ipsum doesn’t really match this beautiful theme. Some would say that it doesn’t go with the design at all. Whaat?! I will pretend I didn’t know & provide the Pirate Ipsum link here! Yardarm boom galleon grapple Gold Road grog blossom fluke fathom crimp crow’s nest. Jack Ketch walk the plank […]
an everyday look
Here’s the thing, when it comes to my everyday, this is eighty-five percent how I roll: something easy to wear and minimal effort with hair and makeup. I say eighty-five percent because I do occassionally add mascara, and it usually makes a world of difference in my face. Any while it’s not always sunny in the […]
California | Hiking in Point Reyes
A family outing hiking in Point Reyes National Seashore, just north of San Francisco. Video included!
Summer Stripes | the Crop Top
A summer style blog post about a boxy cut crop top.
Sweet Hipster Ipsum
Love you some hipster goodness? Find this ipsum generator at Hipsum.com Godard leggings enamel pin meditation coloring book keytar celiac tofu williamsburg cronut everyday carry. Artisan deep v semiotics, prism selvage gluten-free waistcoat hoodie food truck. Bitters ugh knausgaard keytar, messenger bag small batch post-ironic waistcoat shaman mixtape organic kombucha sustainable polaroid meggings. Cray hot […]
repeat offender | chambray dress
A clothing series featuring one piece, worn two ways.
California | Fern Canyon
Exploring the Fern Canyon locating in the Redwoods National Park along the Northern California coast.
New Mexico | Hiking in Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
A day hike in the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument located in New Mexico.
repeat offender | off-the-shoulder top
A clothing series featuring one piece, worn two ways.
Cali Home | the living room
A collection of posts featuring my California rental home.
weekend reading | No.2
A monthly series bringing you favorite links from around the web.
the shoes I wear most often
I remember when I bought this pair of Birkenstocks, about two years ago. And, while I'm not sure they're as in as they were two years ago, they are the shoes that I wear most often!
Monterey | Pacific Grove | Carmel
A guide of things to do and places to eat in Monterey, Pacific Grove, and Carmel.
California | Pescadero
Just south of Half Moon Bay, CA is this tiny, tiny little town called Pescadero. The downtown is about a block long, and features a coffee shop, a few restaurants and all the quaintness one might want; which is probably why there were Zipcar's everywhere
wearing overalls
I bought my first pair of overalls in a covert operation at Hollister. Covert because, a thirty year old mama shopping at Hollister....I've told the story before.
the easter dress
Days before Easter, I sat in a park parking lot, near my house and sobbed on the phone to my girlfriend. She also happens to be a wonderful counselor, so my sobs were in more than capable hands.
weekend reading | No.1
An occasional series with current links, along with recommended reads and products.
styling a jumpsuit
What I hear most often, when I wear a jumpsuit, romper, one-piecer - pick your adjective - what I hear most is people telling me that they just wouldn't know how to wear that.