Fashion
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Joyful July Sale | Victoria Emerson

Greetings, friends! I’m partnering with Victoria Emerson Design to share the Joyful July Sale — wraps are $19.99, cuffs are $29.99, and select sale items are as low as $9.99!

If you’re a loyal reader, you know this is one of my favorite brands for affordable fashion jewelry, and today I want to show you a few my favorite pieces and how I’ve worn them recently.

I shared this Cairo boho cuff in my last post with Victoria Emerson, but I accidentally wore it backwards so it looked a little different. The good news is, you can wear it both ways!

I love the earth tones in this piece along with the marbled stones, and the shell in the middle gives it a bit of a beachy vibe, which is perfect for this time of year.

It has such a nice mix of texture and shine to elevate this simple outfit.

You can also layer these bracelets for even more pattern and texture. Here, I added her leopard hair calf double wrap bracelet to the Cairo cuff

I like how the black in the leopard print picks up on the black in my top, and the brown tones are repeated in my sandals.

In this next look, I wore this gorgeous wrap bracelet featuring freshwater pearls set in orange leather with a floral top and white shorts.

I love her pearl wraps because they go with just about anything, and they have such a great combination of traditional and modern styles.

And finally, this crystal on white ivory leather wrap is a mix of clear, white opal, silver dorado, and smoked crystals.

These neutral tones go with pretty much anything, but I especially like how it pairs with white jeans.

Every Victoria Emerson wrap bracelet fastens with an engraved nickel-free clasp, and there are three settings to accommodate any wrist size. Just snip off the excess with a pair of scissors.

All of her bracelets are handmade, great quality, and come with a satisfaction guarantee.

Anytime I put on an outfit and feel like it needs a little extra something, a Victoria Emerson bracelet is usually the perfect solution. She has so many styles and colors to choose from, and each piece is a little bit different.

Her Joyful July Sale is the perfect time to snag a new piece to add to your collection, or perhaps it’s time to dive in and grab your first one! And don’t forget gifts. These bracelets are loved by women of all ages and teen girls too.

Shop the Victoria Emerson Sale:

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This post contains affiliate links. When you shop through my links, it helps support my business (at no additional cost to you) so thank you!

Fall/Winter
3 Comments

2020 #NSALE PREVIEW | BEST OF DENIM

With the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale rapidly approaching, I want to take a deep dive into the most popular categories and share my favorites and where I think you’ll get the most bang for your shopping buck.

We’ll start with my favorite — denim!

The Best Jeans in the 2020 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

This is one of the best opportunities to get jeans on sale because they are rarely discounted this much.

You know that I’m a huge fan of premium denim, and since I practically live in jeans for three seasons of the year, I definitely get my cost per wear out of them. But there are some lower priced brands included in this sale as well, if that’s more your jam.

The Best #NSale Jeans Over $100

The Best #NSale Jeans Under $100

Don’t Miss A Post!

Subscribe to get email updates! In addition to my most recent blog posts, you’ll receive exclusive newsletter content like special sales, my newest favorite finds, and an occasional peek behind the scenes — all delivered right to your inbox. PLUS you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win a $100 gift card each month!

This post contains affiliate links. When you shop through my links, it helps support my business (at no additional cost to you) so thank you!

Fashion
73 Comments

What I Wore Lately Vol. 20

Greetings, friends, and happy hump day! It’s time for another edition of What I Wore Lately. This is a roundup of my daily looks from the past week.

There’ve been a few “grace days” as of late, but I went ahead and took pictures anyway. Just trying to keep it real over here.

SIZING NOTES: I’m 5’5″ and 135 pounds, with a slight hourglass shape. Unless I say otherwise, I’m wearing a 6/28 in pants/jeans, a small in tops, a 6 in dresses/jumpsuits, and size 8 shoe.

WHAT I WORE LATELY

Speaking of grace days, last Wednesday was one of those. I threw on my running shorts and this old Zella tee for my morning walk, and then I wore that with my Birks until it was time to change into my swimsuit.

Zella tee (old) // UA shorts // Birks

That afternoon, I hosted a friend and her daughter for a pool date, and I threw this casual tank dress on over my swimsuit.

tankini top & swim bottoms // Marc Fisher slides // Caslon tank dress

The next day, I got showered and dressed to work from home. Because I was in the A/C all day, I could get away with a thin summer sweater.

This linen tie dye sweater is 50% off and selling fast. It’s true to size; I have the small. Nevermind the canine photo bomber in the background. Love her!

sweater // shorts // Birks // earrings

Friday was a dreary, rainy day, and I had to take one of my daughters to an appointment. I’m always chilly in the doctor’s office, plus it was rainy, so I went with jeans and another lightweight sweater.

This stripe sweater is FINALLY on sale and fully stocked. It’s TTS, or size up for a slouchier fit; I’m in the small. This sweater is super thin and lightweight, so you do need a cami or tank under. The one I have is part of the #NSale this year.

Also, I love Rag & Bone Cate skinnies, and this pair is a really good price. Sizes are pretty depleted, but you may get lucky. Otherwise, hold on because there’s a pair in a darker wash that’s part of the #NSale.

stripe sweater (30% off) // cami // Rag & Bone Cate skinnies (40% off) // TB Emmy sandals // necklace // earrings

I spent most of the next day at home. My dad was here, and I eventually got in the pool, but this is what I wore before and after.

FYI, these shorts are on sale at Evereve. They’re TTS; I have the 6.

Madewell tank // Kut from the Kloth jean shorts (on sale at Evereve) // Marc Fisher slides // Lucky Brand earrings

On Sunday, I wore this swing dress to church. I tried a few different combinations of sandals and jewelry before landing on what now seems like the most obvious choice.

I first tried this charm necklace and my gold Steve Madden slides.

That certainly works, but I wanted to see what it would look like with these brown toe ring sandals. I also decided to try this Kendra Scott layer necklace instead of the pendant.

I like brown with navy, but these sandals were more casual than what I wanted for church. Incidentally, they’re on sale and a really good price for leather sandals. They have a padded footbed, and I find them very comfortable.

I switched into my Miller sandals in Makeup for more of a cohesive look on the bottom, and definitely like these best. The brown, and even the gold break up the line of the leg, but the skin color sandals elongate the leg and leave the focus on the dress.

However, the necklace was too short and close to the neckline for my liking, so I went looking for something longer. I wanted to wear my new Kendra Scott station necklace, but I couldn’t find it. (Happily, it was located last night!)

Fortunately, I also have this one from LOFT, and it works. (It has since sold out, so I can’t link it. Sorry!)

I think this looks much better. It helps draw the eye down and in towards the waist, and it just elongates the entire look and fills the large expanse of navy blue.

I tried to get a close-up of these earrings. They’re Kendra Scott too, and I really like them. This bracelet set is also from LOFT, and my ring is Lagos.

I really like the final look. The first one was fine too, but I think this combination of jewelry along with the skin-colored sandals complement the simple dress in the best possible way.

swing dress // Miller sandals // earrings // similar necklace // bracelets

That brings us to Monday, and I had a workout in the morning and PT in the afternoon, so I just put this on and kept it on all day. (I wore sneakers to work out, obviously.)

Zella tee (old color) // Athleta leggings // Birks

And this was yesterday. I don’t think I left the house all day, but I was hot and sweaty from an early morning walk/run, so I showered and did the whole hair & makeup thing.

Because I was at home, I could get away with jeans. I sort of forget about these Levi’s, but they’re really comfortable, and I like the raw hem and ripped knee for casual looks.

I noticed that they’re on sale, so I threw them on so I could give you a heads-up! The best price is at Shopbop, but there are more sizes at Levis.com. FYI, Levi’s run small; I have the size 29.

The striped dolman top I’m wearing here is from LOFT, and these are another pair of Marc Fisher studded sandals.

I bought these back in the springtime, and I tend to forget about them, but they’re very comfortable and the styling is super cute. They run true to size, and they’re 30% off at Zappo’s.

navy dolman tee // white jeans (also at Levi’s) // sandals // similar earrings (mine are 11mm) // bracelet c/o Victoria Emerson Design

And that’s all I’ve got for this week. I hope you guys are hanging in there.

The news keeps getting crazier, and school decisions are looming, and I’m sure most of us are dealing with personal life stuff and work stressors on top of it all. Try to stay positive, focus on the good, and be kind to yourself (and others!) xo

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This post contains affiliate links. When you shop through my links, it helps support my business (at no additional cost to you) so thank you!

Fall/Winter
18 Comments

Fall Looks from the #NSale Preview

Happy Tuesday, friends! I’ve been playing “digital paper dolls” again over on my Nordstrom Looks page.

As many of you know, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Preview is live online, and I already singled out some of my#NSale favorites. I’ll will be adding more posts over the next couple of weeks. (See all of my ongoing #NSale 2020 coverage here.)

Fall Looks from the 2020 #NSale

I absolutely LOVE having access to this preview online before the sale opens. I think it’s really going to reduce the frenzy around the sale when it does go live, and hopefully Nordstrom will be better equipped to handle the inevitable onslaught of orders.

Meanwhile, I put together a few looks to whet your appetite for fall fashion!

#1. Polished Casual

This is the perfect look for Saturday errands or a quick trip to the mall… if you’re braving public places this fall. It’s also a nice look for an outdoor get-together with friends on a chilly fall evening.

SHOP THE LOOK

The popular Madewell Remi mules are back this year, and I love the earth tones in this snake print. They complement the rust sweater perfectly.

They also come in a cheetah print, similar to last year’s quick sell-outs.

Mother’s The Looker is a classic skinny jean that rarely goes on sale, and this pair has an updated crop length (26 1/2″ inseam) and a comfortable 10″ rise. I also really like the ultra-faded powder-blue wash.

And for those looking for a good deal on a classic, quality handbag, I love the looks of this Tory Burch leather tote. The hobo is nice too.

#2. Urban Chic

The crop denim trend is still going strong this fall, and the perfect way to wear crop flares is with a higher shaft boot and a chunky sweater. Add a cool bag in a fun print and you’re all set for a long day of outdoor shopping or sightseeing.

SHOP THE LOOK

If you think this sweater looks familiar, you are right. This was one of the most popular items from last year’s #NSale, and it sold out the first day. It was eventually restocked and sold for full price for much of the winter season.

I wore mine all winter long, and it’s one of the few sweaters that made the cut when I did a big closet clean-out last spring. It’s more of a trendy look than a classic piece, but it’s cozy and cute and looks great front-tucked or untucked. It runs a little big, but it’s supposed to be slouchy; I have the size small.

For this look, I paired it with these chic Frame crop flares and I added a pair of Blondo waterproof booties. I like the thick lug sole platform and chunky heel for offsetting the volume of the sweater. Plus, they’re practical for all kinds of weather.

The North Face parka is another popular rerun from last year. I own and love this jacket. It’s the warmest thing for the coldest of days. Size up; I have the medium.

I also like the looks of this Patagonia one; it may have an even more flattering shape.

And finally, how cool is this Clare V. leopard print crossbody with the bold orange woven strap? This bag instantly updates any casual outfit.

#3. Channel Surfing

When you’re ready to curl up on the couch and channel surf… or Netflix surf, I’ve gotcha covered!

SHOP THE LOOK

INDOORSY just about sums me up. This sweatshirt is going into my cart as soon as the sale goes live on August 4th!

It goes perfectly with these fun Zella jacquard ankle leggings, or a cozier option is these Beyond Yoga camo print joggers.

I have one pair of Beyond Yoga leggings, and they are the softest pair I own. I always put them on first thing in the morning in the wintertime, until it’s time to get dressed for the day. I think I’m going to have to add these joggers to my closet.

The Nordstrom at Home Kennebunk Bliss Plush Throw is part of the #NSale again this year, and I couldn’t be happier about that! Last year, I gifted one to each of my kids, as well as several friends and family members. They are so soft and cozy, the price is great, and they do not shed at all.

#4. Casual Work Wear

One of my top sellers from last year’s #NSale was a casual Eileen Fisher dress, and this year they’ve got another one that I have a feeling is going to be just as popular!

SHOP THE LOOK

This knee-length sleeveless shift is made of a soft, fluid jersey, and it’s the perfect desk to dinner dress for late summer and fall. You could easily throw on a denim jacket or cardigan for air-conditioned spaces, or once the weather cools down. It also comes in black, but I think this hibiscus pink is gorgeous.

I was also excited to see these Vionic sandals in the sale. Vionics are great for finicky feet, and these are super chic as well, with the block heel and half-d’Orsay vamp. They come in several great colors, but I particularly like the tortoise heel strap on the black pair.

#5. Work From Home

When working from home, I like to get dressed so I feel put together, but I also want to be comfortable. Worn-in jeans with a luxe sweater and cozy slippers is my WFH uniform.

SHOP THE LOOK

The Paige Verdugo is my all-time favorite denim style, second only to the AG Farrah skinnies that I’ve worn to death for the past couple of seasons, and I was super excited to see this pair in the #NSale this year.

With the light wash, ripped knee, and raw, distressed hems, these have that perfect already lived-in look. Unfortunately, there is no inseam measurement on the website: I’m hoping it’s 27″.

This cashmere ruana caught my eye early on, and it’s one of the to items on my Wish List. It looks perfect for throwing on with leggings or jeans for long winter days at home, or for running errands without a coat on mild fall days.

I prefer slippers to shoes when I’m at home all day, and these UGG slippers are calling my name. They would make nice teenager gifts too!

#6. Fall Wedding Guest

A lot of you have told me you have fall weddings coming up, and while they may be smaller or different than originally planned, you still want to look your best! This Tahari crepe sheath has wedding guest written all over it.

SHOP THE LOOK

I have a black Tahari sheath that is 5 years old or more, and it’s still going strong. The style is classic and timeless, and the fit is perfection.

I’m hoping this one is similar in fit and quality because I love the rich bordeaux color and waist defining side-tie. This wine-colored number with the side ruching is another great option, and they also have this one in black.

I struggled to find shoes to go with it that are part of the #NSale. Stuart Weitzman is noticeably lacking from this year’s shoe lineup. Usually he has one great pair of special occasion shoes in this sale, but this pair by Karl Lagerfeld is pretty good. The low heel is nice for those of us with aging feet, and they come in two versatile neutrals — black patent or nude patent.

Of course, you’ll want to have gorgeous long, lush lashes for your special event. Lancôme mascara is my long-standing favorite, and I was super psyched to see this set in the sale.

#7. Running Weather

I couldn’t do a roundup without a workout look, could I?

SHOP THE LOOK

This Zella tee is super flattering on. It’s also lightweight and moisture-wicking, and works well as a base layer or stand alone top.

I also have this Sweaty Betty backpack, and I love how chic and stylish it is. Plus, it has a lot of compartments to keep your stuff organized.

A girl can always use another pair of running shorts… at least this girl can. I only have one pair, and I keep washing and rewearing!!! I love this bright pink pair with the white and black accents.

I’ve also been jonesing for a pair of these Cloud running sneakers for a while, now, so I think I’m finally going to bite the bullet while they’re on sale.

Finally, this sport bra is really good. It gives “the girls” a nice shape, and it’s soft and comfortable. It doesn’t have as much support as some, but I haven’t tried criss-crossing the back straps yet. I’m going to give that a shot next time I wear it. I also have and like this one.

I could keep going, but this is a good start, dontcha think?

Be sure to follow my Nordstrom Looks page for more summer and fall outfit inspiration!

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This post contains affiliate links. When you shop through my links, it helps support my business (at no additional cost to you) so thank you!

Fashion
15 Comments

Casual Summer Church {or Dining Out} Looks

Good morning! I’ve been asked if I could round up some casual summer church looks. If you don’t go to church, these outfits are also perfect for dining out, and maybe even work wear for those who have more casual dress codes.

I share my summer church looks regularly in What I Wore Lately, but sometimes it’s nice to see a category of outfits all in one place, and these days I’m all for ideas that allow me to repurpose old pictures, so let’s go!

Casual Summer Church (or Dinner Out) Looks

Let’s start with yesterday’s casual church outfit — and this is a new dress I haven’t shared yet!

#1. Navy Swing Dress + Neutral Sandals

I actually had this Daily Ritual Women’s Jersey Muscle Swing Dress last year in black, and I just ordered this one in navy. Navy is softer and more casual than black, and it’s a great neutral for those who don’t like such harsh colors against their skin.

Before I left the house, I tried this dress with both gold and brown shoes, but I ended up going for the Miller sandals in Light Makeup because I like how they blend in with my skin tone and elongate the legs. Depending on your skin tone, you might prefer a darker neutral, but the idea here is to wear a shoe with low contrast to your skintone.

Flats keep the look casual and comfortable, but you could wear a wedge if you wanted to dress it up a bit.

#2. Floral Blouse + White Jeans

This floral blouse is gorgeous paired with white jeans, and in this case, I bookended the look with strappy black sandals.

These jeans are on the more casual side for church. I’d probably wear a pair that isn’t distressed, but I’ve been known to wear a pair of distressed jeans to church once or twice. I guess it depends on the culture of your area and how formal your services are. I would definitely wear this out to dinner with friends or my hubby.

#3. Printed Dress + White Tank & Denim Jacket

This daisy midi skirt from LOFT is the focal point of this chic and casual summer look, but any printed skirt of any length or style would work with this outfit.

There’s nothing new or inventive about a bold patterned skirt with a white top and denim jacket, but I feel like this classic combination always looks fresh and modern.

In this case, I like how the white sandals repeat the white from the skirt and tee, but a neutral sandal in a color that complements your skin tone would elongate the legs and make you look longer and leaner.

#4. Bright Short Sleeve Sweater + White Jeans

Pretty much any bold or bright colored blouse or sweater paired with white jeans will create a crisp summer look that you can dress up or down with shoes and accessories.

This elevated cap sleeve sweater from Talbots has clean, modern lines and feminine knit details around the bateau neckline. It’s true to size, or you can size down for a more body con fit. I’m wearing the small.

Typically I’d wear a wedge sandal with this outfit, but I guess I was feeling pretty casual the week I wore this because I went for my nude slides.

Yes, I have these Nine West slides in two colors. This year’s version is updated with metallic discs that lend a slightly edgy vibe to this classic slide.

#5. Black Midi Dress + Gold Sandals

You can’t go wrong with a LBD, and this seamed tank dress from Everlane is made of the lightest cotton fabric that is polished yet still casual, and perfect for this hot summer weather we’ve been having lately.

I dressed this up with gold heeled sandals and some blingy jewelry for my birthday dinner out, but for church, I like to tone it down with gold slides and more minimal jewelry.

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Subscribe to get email updates! In addition to my most recent blog posts, you’ll receive exclusive newsletter content like special sales, my newest favorite finds, and an occasional peek behind the scenes — all delivered right to your inbox. PLUS you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win a $100 gift card each month!

This post contains affiliate links. When you shop through my links, it helps support my business (at no additional cost to you) so thank you!

Diary
28 Comments

Coffee Talk 07.26.20

Greetings on this last Sunday in July! I am so not ready to face the fact that fall is looming… anyone else?

I know, I know. We still have August, but once R starts band camp next week, it will feel like the new school year is upon us, even though our district doesn’t officially start back until the end of the month… if the kids even go back to school at all.

Although, I have to say, we’re about ready for band camp to start because we’ve all been at home since March, and R is dying for structure and routine. So maybe it will be a nice change of pace… for her, anyway. I’m still in denial that summer has to come to an end.

C and D both have jobs, so that is keeping them somewhat occupied and helping to break up their long summer days. And of course they can drive themselves, so it doesn’t disrupt my schedule.

It will be very interesting to see how this fall shapes up. Those of us with school-age kids are pretty much consumed by school choices for the upcoming school year. While each school district scrambles to make plans and put options in place to accommodate this unprecedented pandemic, a new edict from our governor could put a kibosh on all of it at any time.

Everyone I know says they will be surprised if we aren’t all back to remote learning by October, so I kind of wonder why we are even trying, but I get it. There are a lot of kids who really need to be in school.

D’s college has already decided to go virtual for the fall semester, although the campus is open at 50% capacity. How they are going to monitor that, I have no idea. He has an off-campus apartment that we are paying for whether he stays there or not, so he will probably use it. At least he’ll be able to be with his friends and have some semblance of a college experience, even if his classes are online.

C has been enrolled in a cyber charter school since 8th grade, so her senior year won’t be altered too much. It was already going to be unconventional. It’s weird and kind of sad not to have all of the usual senior year milestones that we had with D, but I’ve had plenty of time to get used to that idea, and at least it’s her choice and not because of Covid.

For now, college visits are on hold, but she wasn’t really excited about the prospect anyway. At some point, we will have to figure out her next steps, but I guess everyone’s plans are a little up in the air right now.

I’m the type of person who likes to do things by the book, so to speak, but I’ve learned to adjust my expectations and accept that she isn’t going to do everything the usual way, and that’s okay. There is no one right route for everyone.

R was excited to start high school this fall, but it’s looking more and more like she will be staying home.

We’re still waiting to get the final plan from our school district and see what the options look like, but the more we talk it over, the more we think she will be happiest if she just stays here. They’ll probably all end up at home eventually, and if it lowers our risk of getting Covid or having to quarantine due to possible exposure, it’s probably worth it. She will learn fine either way.

I know I’m blessed to be in a situation where either choice is going to work for her and for us. I truly believe that there is no right or wrong answer for most people. We all just have to do our best with the info we have at the moment.

So, what’s the school year looking like where you are? Have you made your school decision(s) yet?

I need to get my walk in, and then I’m off to church here in a bit. I hope you all have a relaxing and blessed Sunday!

Fall/Winter
18 Comments

2020 #NSale Preview: Prepare to Shop!

Alright, ladies. This is it. Game ON!!! The long awaited Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Preview is finally here!

one // two // three // four // five // six // seven // eight // nine // ten // eleven // twelve // thirteen

You can’t shop just yet, but you can add #NSale items on Preview to your Nordstrom Wishlist to purchase when your access level comes up in August. (Not sure of your access level? Find that here.)

This is awesome, because you can make a plan and shop the sale strategically, rather than buying impulsively.

You will get the most bang for your buck if you shop investment pieces and rather than trendy items because the savings on investment pieces is far greater than it is on lower priced, trendy items. That said, I realize we’re all working with different budgets, so I try to include a mix of styles and price points in my recommendations.

This is also a great time to stock up on beauty products, wardrobe staples, and foundation garments that rarely go on sale. They may not be fun to shop for, but they’re necessary, so you may as well get them at a discount.

If you’re new to this sale, and have no idea what the hype is all about, start here: How To Prepare for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

FYI, all my ongoing #NSale 2020 coverage can be found under the #NSALE tab at the top of my blog (on mobile, you can find it in the dropdown menu.)

For my #NSale Preview posts, I’ll use shopping widgets to round up my top recommendations across all major categories.

Yes, I said “posts” because I decided it’s too much for one, with the entire sale available for preview this year. I don’t want to overdo it before we can even shop, but when I asked for feedback, most said they would rather I divide it up to make preparing for the sale more manageable.

First Thoughts

Now that I’ve had time to peruse the 2020 #NSale offerings, I noticed that there are fewer new “made for the #NSale” pieces and more old favorites released in new colors, but the discounts are excellent — some as much as 50% off!

In other words, a lot of will look familiar, so not quite as exciting as in years past.

Also, Nordstrom did say there would only be about half the typical #NSale inventory this year, so if you feel like there isn’t a lot, that’s why.

That said, I notice it says, ” Check back often—we’re adding more items daily!” on the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale home page, so we may see a few more goodies being added before the sale goes live.

A lot of people in the Facebook Group are saying that it’s underwhelming so far, but I feel like people say that every year, and every year we find stuff to love… and obsess over and stalk for restocks, lol!

It’s also really hard to tell which of the new pieces will be awesome until we can try them on, or see them on other people. Unfortunately, we still have to wait a while for that, but I’m pretty good at predicting what we might like (or not) based on how the brand typically fits and the website measurements.

All that to say, I see this as a year to stock up on basics and replace some of our tried and true favorites. I like the Beauty exclusives a lot this year, and I found a handbag I’m super excited about. Shocker, right? Haha!

Also, one more thing. Don’t freak out if you see that something says “sold out” or “only 1 or 2 left.” I’m sure this is just a glitch in the system. You should still be able to select a size nad color and add to your Wist List. If not, check back in a few days. Those tend to be the items that are already on the site in other colors, and I think the website just isn’t recognizing the Preview inventory yet or something.

Today I’ll start with an overview — my top picks, products I have and love, and the items on my personal Wish List. Then I’ll take a deep dive into each category in several future posts.

#NSale 2020 Top Picks

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Subscribe to get email updates! In addition to my most recent blog posts, you’ll receive exclusive newsletter content like special sales, my newest favorite finds, and an occasional peek behind the scenes — all delivered right to your inbox. PLUS you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win a $100 gift card each month!

This post contains affiliate links. When you shop through my links, it helps support my business (at no additional cost to you) so thank you!

Fashion
14 Comments

5 Favorites: Summer Sandals {2020 Edition}

I was planning to post about the #NSale Preview today, but it hasn’t dropped yet, and I don’t know when it will, so I decided to update another 5 Favorites post.

Stay tuned, I will have my Preview post up as soon as I can, but in the meantime, let’s talk summer sandals!

I’ve actually purchased QUITE a few new pairs of sandals this summer… ahem. Way more than I typically do in one season, and I’m not even sure why. But there are definitely a few that I find myself reaching for the most, and they aren’t necessarily the ones I thought were going to be the most worn.

Another item of interest, at least to me: This is actually the first year in like the past 5 that the Tory Burch Miller Sandals are not #1 on this list. Whaaaaa??? Not that I don’t still love them; I do. But they’re not my go-to sandal this year for the first summer that I can remember.

Which one is? Keep reading…

MY 5 FAVORITE SUMMER SANDALS

By way of disclaimer, I don’t mind spending a little more on good shoes. Since this is a list of my favorites, there are no budget buys in this list. What’s the saying? Invest in your shoes and your sheets because if you’re not in one, you’re in the other… 

That said, some of my favorites are on sale right now, so there’s that!

#1. Birkenstock Madrid

Despite attending college in New England in the early 90s, this is my first pair of Birks. I know, shocking, right!?! I’ve tried them several times over the years, but never kept a pair until these.

I wear these literally every day at some point. I’ve started putting them on in the mornings instead of my slippers, and I rarely take them off on the days I spend mostly at home because they have really good support, and I’m trying to be kind to my feet (and legs and back.)

But I’m also really drawn to this updated style. They’re not as clunky as typical Birks, and I really like the big buckle and minimalist design.

They just have a great cool girl, carefree, casual vibe that works for this #stayhome pandemic life we are all living right now. I’m very tempted to get a second pair, maybe the Mayari.

These sandals go well with everything from joggers to jeans, from shorts to dresses. It’s pretty amazing, actually!

My old rose nubuck color is gone, but there are some other really good colors available. These run true to size, or a little small. I tried both the 38 and 39, and went with the 39, and I also have the narrow width.

Buy Them: Nordstrom // Zappos

#2. Tory Burch Emmy

You didn’t really think I could do a sandal roundup without representing Tory Burch, did you?

I’m loving this chic, minimal thong style this year. The price is up there, but they’re very good quality, with a leather footbed and soft leather straps, and subtle details like the gold accent around the footbed and double T on the top of the T-strap.

I like how the mini medallion is understated and not quite so in-your-face as the big medallion on the Miller sandals… again, I am not dissing the Millers. I still love mine! But I think this Emmy style is a great addition to their lineup.

Sometimes I wish I had these in gold, but I have a lot of gold sandals, and this amber shade is such a good neutral. It’s highly versatile — more so than a darker brown — and it has a way of keeping an outfit chic but not fussy.

These are definitely not as comfortable as the Birks. There is no support, and because of the thin straps, your foot moves around a bit as you walk, but I have no problem keeping them on my feet and wearing them for a few hours at a time.

They also have some padding in the footbed, so they’re plenty comfortable as long as you don’t need support. They run true to size; I’m in my usual 8.

Buy Them: Tory Burch // Nordstrom // Zappos

#3. Sam Edelman Gigi

These are very similar in styling to the Tory Burch Emmy, and they’ve actually been a favorite of mine for many years. This year I grabbed this snake print pair, and I’ve been wearing them a ton.

I would say these are slightly more comfortable and more stable on the foot than the Emmy, and they’re very good quality as well. Not in quite the same league, I guess, but I have no complaints.

I’m also loving the snake print right now. The dark, earthy tones in the snake print and the brown footbed complement casual looks, but the classic T-strap styling elevates the look. (Mine are the Pale Blush/Desert Multi/Ecru Exotic Snake Print.)

These sandals run small; I always have to size up to an 8.5 in these. They’ve recently been restocked at Zappos, and they’re on sale for $72.99.

Buy Them: Zappos (other colors at Nordstrom and Sam Edelman)

#4. Talbots Gia Rattan Buckle Sandals

I’ve been reaching for gold sandals a lot lately because I like how they dress up a more casual outfit. Now that I’m wearing shorts more than ever, I feel like metallics have a way of elevating a look, even when they’re flats.

This pair is from Talbots. I bought them to go with a specific dress I was styling for a blog post, and I’ve ended up wearing them a lot more than I ever expected.

They have a slightly padded footbed, and the way the straps are designed, with the thick strap close to the ankle, and the criss-cross straps around the toes, they are very stable and easy to walk in. Plus, the leather is soft against the foot, and they required no breaking in.

I think the raffia buckle is a fun detail too. They run true to size, and right now they’re on sale for $32, but they’re pretty much sold out. #boo

Another good option with the criss-cross strap styling is the Cole Haan Anica.

These aren’t gold, but they come in some lighter neutral color ways, and they’re really nice for finicky feet because they have a lot of cushioning — far more than the other styles I’ve mentioned so far. They also have an adjustable heel strap that makes them even more stable.

Yes, they’re a little more clunky than the Talbots pair, but I still think they look good with casual dresses and shorts. I have the black, and they’re 40% off right now!

For a lighter look, I really like this Amphora/Snake combo that is 53% off right now, and the Pecan/Rose Gold Leather combo is nice too.

Other pair of gold sandals I wear a lot are my Steve Madden Vivien slides.

These are true to size, and they’re a great price too!

#5. Marc Fisher Pava Slide

I cannot believe that every one of my favorites are flats, but that is the reality of the world we’re living in right now! Even when I dress up for church or dining out, I usually end up wearing flats because we often do a fair bit of walking.

This pair is the newest addition to my closet, but I’ve worn them a lot already. I like the edgy studded detail and soft leather caged upper, and I’m always a sucker for a sleek slide sandal.

These feel so smooth and soft against the foot, and I while there’s no support, I still find them very comfortable.

These also come in other colors, but I went with the black because I wear so many black tops, and I like how they bookend the look.

They’re currently 40% off, and they run true to size. I did size down to a 7.5, but I have very thin flat feet. Most ladies say they’re true, and I typically wear an 8 in this brand.

Buy Them: Nordstrom // Zappos

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July Favorites 2020

Greetings, friends, it’s time for my July Favorites! I didn’t realize how many neutrals and “one and done” pieces I chose until I saw this graphic come together.

one // two // three  // four // five // six // seven // eight // nine // ten // eleven

I guess I’ve hit that point in the season. It’s hot, there’s not much going on, and I just need simple and easy for long days at home or outdoor get togethers.

At any rate, this is a roundup of new finds and old favorites I’m particularly loving right now.

July Favorites

one // I’ve shared these camo floral shorts a few times lately, and I’m really enjoying them. They’re lightweight and comfortable, and the pattern is a nice mix of feminine and edgy. They also come in a more classic blue gingham, if you prefer.

These shorts have recently been restocked, and they’re on sale for $20 + 20% off today! They run TTS; I’m in the 6.

two // Even though I’m pretty well-educated on matters of intermittent fasting by now, I’m enjoyed Gin’s latest book, Fast. Feast. Repeat. It really pulls everything altogether that I’ve been learning over the past six months in a clear and concise way.

She explains the science behind IF and related food and health topics, she debunks common of myths about IF, and she explains how to get the most out of the IF lifestyle along with the various IF protocols.

If you’ve tried IF and felt like it didn’t work for you, I highly recommend giving Fast. Feast. Repeat. a read. And if you’ve been curious about intermittent fasting and haven’t read up on it yet, this is where you should start.

Even if you’re already practicing intermittent fasting, you still might find some helpful new tidbits in here, as I did. It’s also full of solid research to help you educate dubious friends and family… cuz I’m sure we all know some of those. 😉

three  // This little guy cracks me up. If you’ve followed my blog for many years, you know we’re serious about our butter in this family. We use A LOT of butter… and always the real deal. #margarineisnotfood

We’ve all been annoyed with our current butter dish because the lid isn’t easy to grasp, and it often slips out of our hands when we pick it up. So I went onto Amazon to find a better one, and I thought this cow was adorable. He’s easy to pick up, too!

four // These Gucci sunglasses came from Trunk Club, and I didn’t think I needed new sunnies, but they’ve quickly become my favorite pair. They’re simple, but so glam. I feel like they elevate any outfit to a chic fashion statement. (I also managed to snag them when they were on sale.)

Granted, the price tag is up there, so I found this pair that’s under $100 for anyone interested in the look at a more budget-friendly price point. They’re a little more square-shaped, and I like the matte finish.

five // I’ve shared these slides a few times, and I’m wearing them any chance I get. They’re very comfortable, if you don’t need a supportive shoe, and I think the caged styling and studded detail are such a great pairing.

I sized down half, but I think they’re probably true to size if you have average feet. Mine are flat and narrow, so I often size down half in slides.

six // This easy dress is super soft and cozy and comfortable against the skin, and I really like the dolman sleeves and curved hemline. Both features elevate it above a typical t-shirt dress. For the price, you can’t beat it! It comes in a bunch of nice neutrals colors, and it’s TTS; I’m in the small.

seven // Another dress that’s easy to throw on and go, this seamed tank dress from Everlane is a little dressier than the t-shirt dress, although it can be dressed down as well. It’s very lightweight and breezy for hot summer temps. It comes in several colors, and it runs TTS; I’m in the small.

eight // This picture is supposed to be of my nail polish. I couldn’t find a better one, and now they’re all chipped.

When I had my nails done last week, I decided to take a break from my typical light neutrals. This is an OPI polish, and as usual, their names are half the fun. This one is called We Sea Food and Eat It.

nine // This is another Amazon fashion find. It’s not a dress, but it’s still one and done.

I don’t know about you, but I always feel like I’m all hanging out there when I wear a dress. I like having a waistband and something between my legs, so a jumpsuit is the perfect solution. You don’t have the modesty issues that come with dresses either.

Plus, a jumpsuit is TRULY one and done because there’s no need for boyshorts or shapewear or anything other than a good pair of smoothing underwear. (I recommend Soma Vanishing 360 briefs.)

This jumpsuit comes in several colors, and it runs TTS; I have the small.

ten // I’m a huge fan of P448 sneakers, and I think this pair with the python print and black heel tab is so fun. (You know I haven’t met a snake print I don’t like!)

These are more of a fall/winter shoe than a summer shoe, but in my experience, P448 moves their styles regularly, and I didn’t want to miss out on these, so I mentioned them to my mom when she asked me for birthday gift ideas. Lo and behold, they wound up on my doorstep just a few days later!

Unfortunately these run bigger than my other pair, so I had to exchange them for a smaller size, but Zappo’s makes returns and re-ordering super easy and a new pair in the right size was delivered the very next day!

eleven // Perhaps the best thing to come out of quarantine, I discovered a great wine club!

When our state went into lockdown due to Covid-19 back in March, I decided to try a wine club so I could get my favorite personal indulgence delivered right to our door, plus it was just something fun to do while we were stuck at home.

I looked into a few different option, but I didn’t care for most of the questionnaires. They seemed to be more geared to people who didn’t know wine or what varieties they like, but then I came across Firstleaf. I liked how they had you pick your actual favorite wines — right down to brand and variety. It seemed like a much better way for them to gauge which wines we would enjoy.

Long story short, we’ve been very happy with them. You can choose how often you receive shipments, and you rate each bottle you get so their selections improve over time. You can also go in and swap out bottles for upcoming shipments if you see a variety you don’t care for. For example, I love a dry white wine, but I detest Chardonnay, so I always swap those for something that looks better to me.

Overall they’ve been a great match to our palates, and it’s been nice to expand our horizons. I highly recommend Firstleaf if you enjoy wine and want to try some new ones.

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Fashion
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What I Wore Lately Vol. 19

Happy hump day, friends! It’s time for another edition of What I Wore Lately. This is a roundup of my daily looks from the past week. It’s been quite hot here lately, so these looks are all about trying to stay cool and comfortable.

SIZING NOTES: I’m 5’5″ and 135 pounds, with a slight hourglass shape. Unless I say otherwise, I’m wearing a 6/28 in pants/jeans, a small in tops, a 6 in dresses/jumpsuits, and size 8 shoe.

What I Wore Lately

My girls wanted to go to the mall last week, and I decided to wear a casual dress for a change of pace.

This cozy knit dress is soft and comfortable, and it has just enough shaping through the waist to be flattering. I like the dolman sleeves and subtle boat neck, and the curved hem is a nice touch. (It runs TTS; I’m in the small.)

I thought it would go perfectly with my new P448 sneakers (a birthday present from my mom.) FYI, these sneakers are on sale at Nordstrom!

They seemed a little heavy with the dress, though, so I tried my Cole Haan Anica sandals.

I also added a long pendant necklace — this one was a Christmas gift from Paul a few years back, and it’s definitely more of an investment piece.

If you’re looking for something similar at a more budget-friendly price point, I found this. You might be able to put it on a longer chain.

I think I like the dress better this way. Which look is your favorite?

Daily Ritual knit dress // Cole Haan sandals // Yurman necklace (similar for less) // Lagos bracelets // nails

The next day, I spent a few hours boxing up returns, and then I hung out with a friend while her kids swam. This cool and casual look was perfect for a hot summer afternoon on the deck.

Just when I thought I was done buying sandals… I could not resist these slides when I saw them in-store. They have just the right combination of minimalism and whimsy, and they’re also 40% off.

My tank and shorts are TTS, but I sized down half in the slides.

Madewell Tomboy tank // Old Navy floral camo shorts // Marc Fisher studded slides (40% off) // Anna Beck pendant // Lagos bracelets // nails

Another day, another black tank… This one is also from Madewell, but it’s a little bit different from the one above.

And this time I wore the P448 sneakers all day. They have a decent amount of cushion and support, and I try to wear a supportive shoe on days that I do a lot of standing at my desk.

FYI, I had to size up to the 39 in these. I have a size 38 in this pair.

Madewell whisper cotton v-neck tank (also at Nordstrom) // Gap shorts // P448 John sneakers (20% off) // Anna Beck pendant // Lagos bracelets

I wore this next look to host friends in the backyard on Saturday night. Yes, another tank top and shorts combo… Did I mention it’s been super hot here lately?

Hey, at least I changed up my accessories this time. These earrings are lightweight and comfortable, even on a hot day.

The tank and shorts are super soft and comfortable, and I like how the gold slides are still casual but add a touch of glam to the look.

These slides have been restocked in most sizes, and they’re really cute on and comfy too. Use code SPRING60to get 60% off.

striped ribbed tank // Gap shorts // gold Steve Madden slides // teardrop earrings // Gorjana super star necklace // initial bracelet (gifted from a friend)

And this was church on Sunday… I knew I’d just be coming home and getting in the pool, so I decided to throw my hair into a ponytail and be done with it.

This dress is cool and comfortable, and so easy to throw on and go.

I did add some different jewelry, including the Kendra Scott multi collar necklace from Saturday’s Try-On Haul… which has been restocked!!! It says there are only a few left, though, so grab one quick if you wanted it.

Everlane seamed tank dress // Tory Burch Miller sandals // Kendra Scott necklace and earrings // Stella & Dot cuff bracelet

I skipped the hair and makeup routine on Monday, and just threw on this tank top and skirt to work from home all day.

I wouldn’t typically put this shade of blush with the rust-colored tank, but the Birks offer good support for my feet and back when I’m standing at my desk a lot, and it actually doesn’t look too bad.

Madewell Tomboy tank // CALIA woven skirt // Birk Madrid // specs

And yesterday, we had dinner outside with friends so I threw on this Old Navy boho top and Wit & Wisdom shorts.

It probably sounds like we’re throwing caution to the wind, seeing friends all the time, but it’s pretty much the same group of people, and we stay outside as much as possible.

I really like the longer shorts and the minimalist brown thong sandals with this top, and I added a Victoria Emerson wrap bracelet to jazz it up a bit.

floral top // white shorts // Tory Burch sandals (also at Saks and Nordstrom) // Victoria Emerson bracelet // Gorjana super star necklace

And that’s a wrap!

It’s been kind of a slow one week. We were supposed to be in Maine right now, but we’ve decided to stay put for the time being, so my calendar is pretty empty.

Make it a great day!

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Mother-Daughter Summer Dinner Out Looks

R is joining me today, and we’re teaming up with Nordstrom to share a few summer dining-out looks.

Most of my outings these days consist of the grocery store, physical therapy, or doctor appointments. The only time we have a reason to get dressed up beyond jean shorts and a t-shirt is when we go to church or out to eat — socially distanced, of course — so I usually take full advantage.

When we go to a restaurant, we always opt for the outdoor dining to be on the safe side, so I often wear shorts because it’s been so hot lately. But if we get a mild day or go out later in the evening, white jeans are my go-to.

These Madewell high waist crop skinnies are my current favorites. They fit great, they’re not see-through at all, and the cropped length is perfect for summer.

For this look, I paired them with a silky black tank and jazzed up the look with some fun accessories.

This raw edge tank is so good, I also have it in the ivory and a deep red. It makes a great layering piece, but it’s also nice on its own.

The hemline dips in the back, giving a nice shape to the hips, and the raw edge chiffon details and double v-neck are flattering and add interest to the look.

This top runs true to size; I’m wearing the small.

The key to making a black and white look chic and not boring is all about the accessories.

In this case, I wore a neutral wedge sandal and carried a bold floral clutch for a summery pop of color.

I found this bag at Nordstrom last week, and these pictures don’t do it justice. It’s such a gorgeous print, and the envelope style is classic. I’ll have it for years.

It also comes with a removable crossbody strap for hands-free convenience.

I’ve worn these shoes before, and I love how they add texture to the look, while the neutral color elongates the leg and doesn’t compete with the colors in the clutch.

Slides are on trend right now, and the low wedge keeps them walkable.

Layering delicates is a modern way to accessorize, and I wore this Kendra Scott multi strand necklace along with a longer station necklace.

Then I added these geometric hoop earrings and one of her cuff bracelets that I’ve had for a while. This is also a nice one.

And don’t forget your sunnies! Especially when dining outside, you may find you need them at the table, but they also elevate the look and add another element of interest.

I love these glam Gucci cat eye sunglasses, and this pair is a similar style for under $100.

If I want to take it down a notch, I can wear this same black tank with jean shorts and flat sandals.

In this case, I did a front-tuck to keep my proportions in check.

I love these cagey studded slide sandals to keep the look casual but a little edgy and fun.

These are sooo comfortable. The leather feels super soft against the foot, and the footbed is smooth and lightly cushioned.

I kept my accessories simpler this time, with a pair of silver hoops and a single pendant necklace.

Either look works for casual dinners out, but it’s fun to dress up a bit more when the occasion (and weather) allows.

R is 14, and she likes to wear casual dresses for dining out.

I recently ordered this Madewell jersey tank dress to try, but it was too small for me, so I asked her if she wanted it.

Turns out, it fit her perfectly!

She could maybe size down to her normal XS, but we agreed that it might be too short and the small fits just fine.

This swingy striped tank dress is made of a supersoft jersey with a touch of stretch, and it’s lightweight and comfortable. In fact, she wore it the other night when we were eating outside in 90° heat.

She wore simple stud earrings and added a small necklace, similar to this one.

And she wore her white Converse Shoreline sneakers to keep the look casual and sporty.

I love that both my girls like to wear dresses, and I think this is the perfect summer dinner-out look for a young teen.

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photos: Alison Cornell

Diary
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Coffee Talk 07.19.20 #ThisTooShallPass

Greetings, friends! I just got back from my walk/run. I actually ran five 2-minute intervals this morning. (I’ve been alternating 4 minutes walking, 2 minutes running for the past couple of weeks.)

I still get some pain in my right glute and hamstring, but it doesn’t get worse as I run, although going uphill is worse than flat areas and downhill. I didn’t have much pain at all when walking today, which is a big improvement, so I’m hopeful that I may be starting to get better.

Even though my tests revealed a labral hip tear and trace retrolisthesis in my lumbar spine, my doctor isn’t convinced either is to blame for the pain I’ve been getting under my derriere. He thinks I just tweaked my hamstring.

My physical therapist and I are a little skeptical because desk sitting seems to exacerbate the symptoms, and I feel like that is what caused them to begin with. Plus my back is very tight, so she is still working on that along with hamstring flexibility, hip and core strength, etc.

Anyway, I can say for sure that the more I move around and stay active, the better I feel. So I’m trying to be more consistent with walking and stretching, and making better use of my adjustable desk and setting my iPhone timer so I don’t sit or stand for longer than 20 minutes at a time. I think my situation is more or less a result of getting old and sitting too much. Ain’t aging fun?

Oh, well. As my momma always says, it beats the alternative…

As I was walking/running today, I was thinking about our current situation… Some people do their best thinking in the shower. I do my best thinking when I’m walking/running.

I actually opened my Notes app and started typing the words that were forming in my head as I walked, and I’m so glad I did because the rest of my post is pretty much written for me. Of course, I will probably edit and tweak it to death, because that is what I do. But here goes.

There’s a lot of worry and despair in my social feeds as of late, and several conversations with friends over the past week or so lead me to believe people are entering a new stage in this whole pandemic situation… despair.

Many thought this would be over by now, and as fall looms and school decisions are upon us, you may be feeling like this is our new normal and it will never end. That Covid is here to stay, and our future consists of mask-wearing, polarizing debates, alternating lockdowns and short glimpses of freedom…. that life as we know it right now may just be our new normal.

Friends, I don’t know who needs to hear this today, but I want to assure you — this will end.

Listen, I don’t have a magic 8 ball, and I can’t see the future. I certainly don’t proclaim to have all the answers, or any of them, really. I don’t know how this fall is going to play out, but eventually, the current state of affairs will be no more.

We will get a vaccine… probably next spring sometime. Whether you want to take it or not is not the point. Please don’t debate that here. The point is, it is coming, and with it will come a significant reduction in Covid cases.

Doctors will get better at knowing how to treat it, they will figure out how to help those “long-haulers” who are suffering its effects longterm, and life will return to some semblance of “normal”.

Look at your history books — the 1918 flu pandemic was much like Covid-19, and 100 years later, and it’s an almost-forgotten historical event.

I’m not saying it is going to be easy, or that some of us won’t miss out on significant life events and experiences during this time, and I can’t promise that you won’t lose a loved one to this nasty beast or that we won’t suffer hardships.

But Covid-19 as we know it will run it’s course, and this will end. We will not have to wear masks forever. Our kids will go back to school full-time. We will get to go to concerts and ball games again. We will get to see family and friends we’ve been staying away from. We will get to travel again. We will worship together again… at full capacity, and sing hymns with gusto.

A year from now, things will be very different than they are today. Meanwhile, we just have to make the best of it and try not to get too bogged down in the here and now.

I think this is hardest for the planners, those who need to know what to expect and don’t do change well. You know who you are.

And I get it, it’s frustrating. But this is just a year in our lives. A crazy one, for sure, but just one year in a long succession of years that will at some point all sort of blend together into a lifetime of ups and downs.

Those of us who have lived many years have the advantage of this perspective. I was trying to explain this to my 14-year-old daughter last night.

When I had babies, I felt like that was my life, and it would be that way forever. Now those years seem like a blip.

I could describe so many times in my life that were just like that — high school, college, the years with young babies, my years as a 3rd grade teacher… At each of those times in my life, those experiences defined me and were part of my identity, and the next thing I knew, they were just a distant memory, and I had moved on to the next phase.

My point is, this too shall pass. It’s trite, but it’s true.

I think we all just need to take a breath, let go of our expectations, and try to go with the flow as much as possible.

And for those of us who believe, to rest in the assurance that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.

Of course, these decisions regarding school and travel and whatever else you might be dealing with in light of Covid are difficult and important, and they must be made, but they don’t need to become a defining moment in our lives.

Decision fatigue is a real thing, and I’m struggling with that a bit myself right now. All I know to do is make a choice to the best of my ability given the information I have at the moment, be willing to accept that it might change at any given time, hand it over to the Lord, and then take one day at a time and reassess as necessary. That’s really all we can do.

I don’t know how this is all going to pan out, but I do know one thing: This too shall pass.

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