BACK FROM TEXAS: traveling with a toddler

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!

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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

 

LEATHER and LACE for a modern twist!

Hello you all! I'm excited to share this look today. Biker sweet and chic? Is there such a thing?! Sometimes it's nice to switch things up style wise. I've already mentioned how I feel in this dress.  I love it. I wrote about wearing it in THIS POST (and other outings recently). Since we just moved, I'm wearing the same couple of items over and over until I get more organized. However, I wanted to give the dress a different look and edge it up a bit.  I found this tailored biker-babe jacket and I like the dress even more now. I think it's kinda obvious in these pictures I enjoy wearing this outfit. I have a feeling it won't stay in stock too long, so I wanted to share asap. 

What pieces have you added to your wardrobe to complete or change several outfits? I've never really thought about it, but now I'm excited to play with items in my own closet to give pieces from seasons past a new, modern twist. 

The jacket (one of the best faux leather ones I've found for the price- under $100) will edge up any outfit- dress or jeans or pants or even shorts! I'm a big believer in finding the best for the least amount of money, but you also get what you pay for! The material, the zipper detail and slightly structured fit are flattering and give off a bit of attitude! It adds just enough "biker girl" to balance out my sweet & flirty dress. It was hard to decide between the black or brown optionBrown would have been a different feel, but equally cool. 

I wore some heels from a few seasons back, but like these more modern, affordable heels so much, I think I'll order them. The clean lines will work with nearly everything. They aren't too high, which works well for me these days with the baby;)

What doesn't always work with the baby are my $12 hoops, but I sneak them on sometimes. They are a fun and delicately make a statement, plus the $12 price tag makes them even more awesome. I wear the studs my husband gave me for Valentine's Day all the time, but when I'm heading sans Hayden, I switch them out sometimes for a different feel. Right now, I feel so unorganized with the move, I keep wearing the same jewelry and clothes over and over again. Until I get a system going...Hello, container store... (that will be another post!).  

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You guys- thanks for your comments. I love reading them and try to respond to as many as I can.  I'm making a list of ideas you add here (and send via email). I'm a bit backed up on it all, but will get there slowly but surely. Stay tuned! 

xox ashley

WHITE AND LACE: sweet, playful and party ready!

I am slightly obsessed with THIS DRESS. First of all, I'm really into white right now. Secondly, I love dresses that fit well. This one has adjustable straps so that it can fit your body perfectly. I like the A-line. And I love the lace. The peek-a-boo aspect is a fun, demure addition. Plus, how cute would this look with a t-shirt underneath and white converse?

1. LACE DRESS 2. NUDE HEELS  3. DELICATE HOOPS

From Sunday best at church (yesterday with a sweater) to a birthday party in the afternoon, to a evening party coming up (I'm wearing it with this faux leather jacket), this dress is versatile. I'm also pretty proud of these price points. Everything is under $90, starting with the sweet and sexy lace dress. For a dress I'll wear over and over and fits so well, it's worth it. Hoops are on sale under $40, pale pink sunglasses are $24 and  the cross body purse is $35

So, happy first day of spring. Enjoy your Monday. I'm off to the races for a packed week. Trying to pace myself! xo Ashley