Hayden and I are back in California and I'm missing my family. I'm not typically a jealous person, but I have to admit, when I see other people with their family surrounding them all the time, I wish we had that! But, alas, life choices took me away from Texas years ago and our family lives here in California!

1. My Exact white dress (comes in 9 colors) 2. Variation of the dress 3. V-neck dress & bell sleeves

4. Similar Option to Sister's dress

BLENDED FAMILIES

I've been asked about life with a blended family. I don't feel like an expert on the topic, so I rarely comment. However, I realized sharing my experience is simply that... I'm not trying to give advice. There are so many beautiful aspects of a blended family. We cherish the time when our whole family is together (Hayden and Huck are very close-- it's chaotic, but great). But, when it comes to schedules and trips and visiting family, it gets hard. Although Huck was on spring break while Hayden and I were in Texas, that time is split between Joel and Huck's mom. Since I want to see my family as much as possible, often that means I am in Texas with just Hayden. We make it work like many of you do. Family trips just take more pre-planning and time. Who went through something similar recently?

TRAVEL TIME WITH A TODDLER

It's a joy to see Hayden with his grandparents and my siblings. He loves his Aunt Jordyn! As hard as it is flying by myself with him on my lap (oh.my.goodness!), it's worth it. I think we are at an in-between stage traveling with him. A little bit older and he'll want to watch a movie. A little younger, he'd sleep on the plane. Right now, he just wants to roam. I tried to be overly prepared with a kid's headset, downloaded movies, snack packs, etc. and it definitely helps, but if you guys have tips from your own experiences, I'd LOVE to hear. I do love the backpack diaper bag. It's genius for traveling and walking through airports while pushing a stroller.

I don't know about you all with toddlers, but we always seem to get our groove of naps and bedtime the last day or so. I have yet to figure out the best way to handle time changes and sleep routines. Hayden has done well recently in his own bed. Outside of his own bed, it is challenging. I've heard other kids sleep like champs in a pack and play, but Hayden fights me! This explains the lack of sleep and why my hair is usually in a bun! Lol. Of course, the very last day, he slept in the pack and play.

WEAR IT AGAIN? yes, and again and again!

Okay, if you all visit the blog or follow on social media, you are well aware that I like this dress. Yes, this is the same one I wore last year on Easter. I love a great new dress or item of clothing, but I also appreciate pieces I already own. I've talked way too much about this dress, like I did HERE, so I'll move on now. Oh, and my flats are washable, sustainable and I love the petal pink.

My sister's dress is so cute on her. Love the style and type... she got it from chicwish, a site I like, but it's sold out. So, I found great similar options. ALL the dresses below are under $100. So great for summer parties, date nights, baby showers, etc. And the dress I'm wearing comes in 9 different colors!

1. My Exact white dress (comes in 9 colors) 2. Variation of the dress 3. V-neck dress & bell sleeves

4. Similar Option to Sister's dress

I promise to move on to other fashion options soon! Hope everyone is having a great day.

xoxo

I love white! Possibly obsessively. And lately, I'm liking even lace and ruffles in white. See this post HERE (white lace) and this post HERE (white ruffles- currently on sale!). So, naturally this skirt caught my eye. It's a fun addition for summer, yet a classic piece to mix and match. Wear it with strappy heels and a slightly baggy sweater in a neutral tone. Also, throw it on with converse and a hoodie (scroll down for the look). When I first saw it, I didn't think it would work on me... I don't like extra fabric around my lower half. I'm self conscious about that area. However, the cut of the skirt works!

When I last looked, this particular necklace was on backorder, but I found some other options like this simple bar necklace, this cool arrow one, or this pendant. Or you can always shop your own closet and find a chunky necklace. (Shopping your own closet is the best sometimes. We forget what we have!) With the skirt taking center stage, I like keeping the rest of the look toned down. The hoops ($12)-- I swear I wear these way too often---are subtle, even though they are on the bigger side. The ring ($16) -on SALE - adds a tiny pop of color. Another idea? Add a faux leather jacket to edge the look up...