Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Random Wednesday #25 - Back to My Roots

 GET THE LOOK HERE:
Dress: Forever 21 (exact) | Jacket: JCP (option) (option) | Belt: Old Navy (option) | Shoes: Rue 21 (option) (option) | Bag: Target (exact) | Brown Bracelet c/o: Litva's Jewelry
Yellow Bracelet: No longer in business

So the title of this post has several meanings.

Roots? What are you roots? Well, let me tell ya a couple of mine.

Let's start with the outfit, shall we?

Checkered. Something I haven't worn since my days in elementary school when my mom tried to dress me. I emphasize the word "try". I never thought I would be wearing it again, but I am sorta digging the checks, gauzy material and broomstick fit. It makes me feel young again...you know, back to my roots. 

And let me say, I am still a tad shocked that denim jackets made their way back to the fashion forefront...roots people...going back to our roots.

Next up, the roots of this blog.

The vision of Because Shanna Said So was originally intended to focus on fashion and a few beauty tips. Then a couple of DIYs popped up. Along came product reviews/giveaways. Before I knew it, I was opening up a little more and sharing a smidgen of my real life.

And then came the time I started offering sponsorships and more giveaways appeared.

Then one day, I participated in a massively ginormous group giveaway. I was excited to be part of it. Grateful to this day that I was included.

Then I participated in a few more. My readership, or should I say "followers" increased, but my content started to fall short.

I began to get caught up in the numbers game. More "followers" equaled success to me; like I was doing something right. Like I was getting better at blogging. More people were reading what I wrote and excited about what I had to say.

Wrong. Well, not the getting caught up in the numbers part, but all the rest of what I just said.

Just because I hit a certain GFC number didn't mean that I was more successful; at least personally.

I then realized that success to me isn't just about the numbers, yes it's a magical feeling to see new faces pop up under the "members" sign, but success, for me personally, is receiving sincere, genuine comments and emails from readers that actually READ what I write and relate to my ramblings.

Yes, I appreciate getting the "I am following you now because of such and such giveaway", but what really gets me going are the messages that say, "thank you for inspiring me", "thank you for opening up", "thank you for sharing your story", "thank you for helping me spend money at Forever 21", "thank you for keeping it real".

At the end of the day, I want to relate to people and inspire them in both fashion and life. Having a successful blog for me is when people come to visit more than just once and eventually become  friends that I chat with numerous times a week. Who support me and vice versa.

With that said, my goal is to refocus on why I originally started this blog - to share my love and borderline obsession with fashion, bring to you great shops and products and continue to give everyone a glimpse into my world.

I have decided to change up my sponsorship options come June, opt out of the large group giveaways going around and to stop focusing solely on follower count.

I hope that my blog, my third child, continues to grow, that it's connections expand and increasingly influence women with fun and somewhat entertaining content. 

All I can hope for is that all the heart, soul, blood, sweat and tears that I have shed into my little space won't suffer by choosing to head back to my roots.

*********************************************************************

And while we are on the subject of roots, I have a lady that is just as passionate about roots (she's a hair stylist, ya'll) as I am. Actually, she is a stylist by day and a jewelry designer by night. I have spoken highly of her once before, but in case you missed it the first time, here is Ms. Sandra again.


She owns an online jewelry shop called Litva's Jewelry and the brown beaded bracelet I am wearing in the pictures today is from her shop. The detail in her handcrafted designs is pure awesomeness and what really excites me is the passion she puts into every piece. Here are a few of her featured products:


And today, Sandra with Litva's Jewelry is offering $40 to one lucky reader to go and shop for anything in her store. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 
**If you are linking up today, I kindly ask that you follow my blog and link back to it in your post. Oh, and go meet some new friends! 
Because Shanna Said So


Linking up with The Pleated Poppy , Lauren, Sarah and Alisa


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114 comments:

Unknown said...

Shanna!
I love your blog! I love that you do what you do. You seem so sweet and genuine...it shines through in every word you write. So thank you for being a positive person because that is what this world seriously needs! Positive people!!!
You look adorable btw! Reminder for me that I need to get myself a new jean jacket : )

xo
Lora

loraknight.blogspot.com

Jessica Who? said...

ahhh my post that i linked up is similar to this.. well kinda. i just realized that i have been trying to "fit in". i was asking myself the wrong questions.. i think blogging has made me learn a lot about myself and i'm trying so hard to start focusing on ME and MY blog instead of following what everyone else is doing.

thanks for this! xx

Jessica Who? said...

oh! and i love that jacket andddd i'd buy wrap bracelets if i won!

Kathrin@shopschoolsleep said...

I, too, am shocked at the denim jacket come out...and mad because I threw mine out a couple of years ago!! And yes thank you for helping me spend more money at Target and F2 :) Love ya for that :)

Leeann @ Join the Gossip said...

I was upset about GFC going away because it does feel good to get a new follower, but bloglovin may be good too because we'll get back to our roots.

Anonymous said...

I look up to you for being so brave and for sharing this on your blog. Thanks for being REAL! I think we all get caught up on the ugly part of blogging, the #s, when instead it's all about the friendships and inspiration you get from each other. Thanks for inspiring me to focus on what i love and not the #s.

Kristine -Heart Shaped Sweat said...

there's no way any of your hard work will suffer by you gettin' back to roots...they're what got you here! Love all your gratefulness and am cheering you on for the big changes ahead! oh, and adorbs outfit! the yellow crossbag is the icing on the cake :)

Rebecca said...

I can truly relate to the blog part Shanna...I used to obsess about site stats etc. so lately I'm starting to refocus & just be myself & be happy at where my blog has gone. Having new friends & Being an inspiration are the best things that blogging has brought me!!

Rebecca
www.redtagchiclosangeles.com

Samantha @ Sam ipsa Loquitur said...

Um, the day I pull off hair feathers as well as she does is the day I die happy. And can I getta amen on the jean jacket thing?! The stuff that comes back in style never fails to amaze me...

Cece @Mahogany Drive said...

Uh, I wasn't aware that denim jackets had ever left! I love mine and never knew it was in or out. You look great in yours. You have def helped me spend money! You already know that though and now I want those brown oxfords. I haven't participated in the giant mass giveaways. It just never felt right for me. My GFC is small but the readers I do have are awesome. I love the interaction and what I'm doing so I just do my best to keep the number secondary.

Jenny @ Creatively Blooming said...

Love your outfit! Isn't it crazy what comes back into style? I had jeans in every color of the rainbow back in elementary. I never thought I'd be wearing colored pants again...

Unknown said...

I love your outfit! Those colors are great! Today is my first link-up, I'm so excited! Thanks for hosting! :)

Lindsey

High Heels and Training Wheels

Unknown said...

And FYI your post is about re-figuring your blog and mine is about just beginning. I guess we're both searching for what our blogs are really about! Thanks again for hosting, have a great week!

Unknown said...

I agree Shanna that creating online friendships is way more important than the numbers. I don't have a lot of followers and I am okay with that. I too get excited when I see a new reader was added but I even more excited when I see a person continue to leave comments & we form a friendship!

Would love to win one of the peyote stitch bracelets.

Alice
www.happinessatmidlife.com

popcosmo said...

love that yellow bag! Definitely checking it out :)
This blog post was very inspiring and I too love comments. We just started the fashion posts on our blog and are blown away with the community support. This is only our 3rd post and I look forward to all our new friendships with common fashion interests!
XO ~kim @ popcosmo.com

Anonymous said...

Cute denim jacket and I love the pop of color with the yellow purse! I used to have a denim jacket in grade school and it was completely covered with pins and brooches... yikes! Discovering new friends is definitely one of the best parts about blogging. I met up with two blogging friends tonight and it was so much fun! Have a great day!

Laura B @ Walking in Memphis in High Heels said...

You always look so dang pretty in gingham and I always feel like a poser in it lol. I'm getting there. Love the mixture of colors!
Enter my new giveaway.
http://walkinginmemphisinhighheels.com

she.is.the.one said...

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/LitvasJewelry/6059528/ruby_red_czech_crystal_fan_silver_chandelier_earrings/handmade/jewelry/earrings/crystal

Kiki said...

HOw do you always look so cute girl!! i mean seriously this is adorbs and i love the pop of color!!
XOXO

Joy Shana said...

That dress looks cute on you, love it
http://shana-style.blogspot.com

Ashley said...

Have I ever seen you in flats? I can't remember....but I'm loving the outfit!

One of the things that I've learned about blogging is that you learn as you go, and change is a good thing! It's so easy to get caught up in the whole numbers game...so no shame in that, my friend. But I think when you're putting your energy into your actual content, like you said...that is what keeps you going...and that is what helps you from becoming burned out....if that makes any sense.

I think you're fabulous, Shanna!

FitTravelerAJ said...

Sometimes things happen so fast that it gets out of control. Good for you to recognize that and take back control of what your original goals were. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of the monster giveaways. I follow bogs because I like the content, not because I have a minimal chance of winning a prize. If someone I already follow is doing a giveaway, I will totally jump on it.

-AJ
FitTravelerAJ.blogspot.com

Danavee said...

I did a post about that lovely lady today too!!!!!!! SHE JUST DID MY HAIR!!!!!

HA!

Her jewelry is amazing.........I own probably 20 or so pieces!

I love her chandelier earrings AND the crochet rope necklaces.

CK said...

I appreciate your honesty - going back to the "roots" of blogging is such a great idea - you readers love you (duh) but always appreciate how genuine you are :) I have to say, I don't mind winning a thing or two, but I'd never just "follow" someone based off of what they're giving away. Your content is wonderful and I have no doubt your blog baby will continue to grow into a busy, hard-to-keep-up-with sassy little thing ;)

Priscila@mommode said...

I love that you are going back to your roots. After all, if we are doing this just for the sheer fact that we love fashion and connecting with our readers, where's the fun in it?

This dress is so cute and it looks even cuter on you.

As always, thanks for keeping it real.

Amy Shaughnessy said...

Keep up what your doing because I think it is FAB. I'm glad that I've gotten to know you. I wish we lived closer!!

Amy

Fashion and Beauty Finds

Hailey Stoner said...

I have always felt on the "outside looking in" because I don't have GFC. I agree lots of people look at followers, and even more so focus on GFC. Maybe it's just me and followers really don't make the blog, you do! I have LOVED getting to know you more. I found you through instagram and can't stop following your life. Stalk much??!!?? No really, Keep up the good work, you inspired me to start doing outfit posts and now I really look forward to posting those.
Hailey @ Love, Laughter and Lipstick

Cathy said...

Always love your "ramblings" and the insight that I gain on various subjects! :) At first I thought this post was going to be about changing your hair color...haha!

http://cstyledesign.blogspot.com

Rachel said...

I love gingham, especially for spring and summer. It definitely reminds me of my younger years, too (oddly enough!)

Blair McLeod said...

first time linking up and new to your blog (found you via Sandy a la mode). Love that outfit. and really love the shoes you matched with it. perfection. thanks for hosting. xo

Jes said...

I was curious as to why you were simplifying things - and I love it. I rarely participate in the giveaways anyway, so it makes no difference to me either way!

I'm glad you posted the outfit here! When I saw it on insty I instanly wanted that dress! It's so sweet and perfect with summer weather already hitting here in Houston!

Katie said...

i love the feathered earrings! and love sandra! :) and thanks for sharing about your vision for your blog - easy to get caught up in all that and hard to find a balance!

Gwen said...

I completely understand this. I'm a newer blogger and still trying to grow my readership. I may get involved in giveaways to get more traffic, but ultimately I want people to stick around because they enjoy reading what I have to say, whether it's superficial or thought-provoking.

Anonymous said...

I def agree, that you should blog about what you love! We do evolve over time and things change. As long as you blog about what you love that is all that matters. ;)

Ella Lane Giveaway

Helene said...

your blog is always inspiring to me! i think you truly do a wonderful job with your blog. keep it up.

Sybil@PeaceitallTogether said...

I hope you know how much I love you and your blog! Thank you for opening me up to new fashion possibilities (and for helping me spend some money)!!

Setarra said...

I may not always comment but I truly enjoy reading what you have to say Shanna! Keep doing what you do!

P.S. That yellow target purse is $20!? I'm heading over there today after work and snatching one up!

Alyssa @ Sweet Shangrila said...

I think you do a GREAT job of inspiring people about fashion and life. The "numbers" game is an exhausting thing, and sometimes I feel like it's impossible to keep up with others. I finally decided I wasn't going to worry about it anymore, either. I love the occasional giveaway but there definitely needs to be that balance. You said it perfectly :) Also, I am so glad jean jackets are back... I'm going to have to dig mine out of storage now!

Alison @ Get Your Pretty On said...

Hey Shanna! This is refreshing to see someone not just chasing numbers but focusing on content. It's a hard balance to strike. But if you do what you love and create from the heart, the right kind of followers will be there. You look like a sweet little girl in this checkered dress!

Sarah said...

You do inspire me at F21! I was in there the other and honestly thought, what would Shanna pick out? Ha! You are helping me see that store in a different light!!

Unknown said...

A good jean jacket is a staple, seriously ;) Love the outfit and the sentiment!

Anonymous said...

Thanks for posting this. I feel like I've gotten a little carried away too (with numbers, etc.) but it's only natural. And, I knew I shouldn't have gotten rid of my denim jacket. Grrrr.

Unknown said...

LOVE your outfits.. and roots! :)

Alissa
FeelingGoodFashion.blogspot.com

Jacqueline said...

I think it's refreshing that you are trying to make a "simpler" blogging world. I know personally, that's kinda been my draw to your blog - and to you. You are real, relatable, friendly - and I think that's so important, that makes me want to continue reading and coming back every morning shortly after I log into my computer - because I feel like in some long lost world... if Texas and Ohio were to merge into one... We could be fabulous friends. ;)

Ashley @ ladyacray.blogspot.com said...

Ah I love everything about this outfit! It makes me want to grab an old coffee can and go berry picking :-)

Unknown said...

Thank you! I may not always comment or link up but I have always found your blog to be encouraging and a good read. I am sure your blog will continue to grow and flourish. Esther Norine Designs

Jill said...

I like her leather wrap bracelets!

Thank you.

Always Maylee said...

You KNOW that I love you and love our friendship! And remember when I bought those F21 shoes after seeing them on you? Well they are literally my favorite shoes, my go-to pair, so thanks for that! I'm sure my husband appreciates that too. :)

xo, Yi-chia
Always Maylee

Filiz @ Light and Sweet said...

I would pick up some wrap bracelets! Love the pop of yellow in your outfit!
x

Maria-Isabel @ Agape Love Designs said...

Thanks for hosting the linky and giveaway! Im loving the feathered earrings!

rebeccalately said...

I love that dress! It looks amazing on you :)

Sarah said...

I love that dress paired with the yellow purse. So cute! I was just thinking, darn it I wish I had kept that jean jacket I held onto for 15 years before I gave it away a few years ago!

Unknown said...

Shanna, I just love you girl! Can I just say that you had me on the floor laughing at the comment..."thank you for helping me spend money at Forever 21"
HAHA! You are probably 99.99% of the reason I shop there, because the second I think I won't find anything I see your post and I want something in it :)

You are an amazing blogger, I don't think you've ever lost track of your sight, so props to you girl!

Sarah Tucker said...

Love you, sweet friend! This is such a meaningful post. I have always said, "would I still blog if no one read what I wrote?" If the answer ever turns to no, then I need to stop blogging! You're such a great mom, person, and blog-friend (which I hope to turn into real friend one day!) and you're blog is such a wonderful representation of who you are :)

Rosemariee said...

love your post today! thanks for the giveaway- my favorite earrings are the Ruby Red Czech Crystal Gold earrings!

Ashlyn | Let It Be Beautiful said...

absolutely love this post Shan! thank you for being so honest. And yes sometimes we just have to find our roots. it's hard not to get focused on the numbers bc it can drive us but not always in the right direction. love you millions!!! xo

Alyson said...

I love the Cranberry Silk Crochet and Czech Glass Long Necklace Bracelet Anklet! So versatile:)

tres chic chica said...

Very cute bag from Target. They have such nice things! I love the custom Peyote Cuff Bracelet.

xo Marie
http://nyorkeratheart.blogspot.com

Elizabeth said...

I love the wire-wrapped amethyst necklace!

Also, thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. I think re-focusing on what matters most to you -- the content-- is a great idea.

Shannon @ Bungalow960 said...

I struggle with this too. To me, more GFC followers meant I was "succeeding". Now I don't feel that way as much anymore. My blog is successful because I have made amazon friends through it and it allows me an creative outlet from my humdrum job.

Girls Love Fried Pickles said...

A wise women once said be true to yourself... I live you more today with this post! I mean I loved you a lot yesterday but today you are Shanna! My great friend!

Unknown said...

You look adorable in this checkered shirt! And those shoes are just too cute!!

xo, Courtney
shabbyloveschic.com

TheTinyHeart said...

Like I said yesterday on my blog, I really think the group giveaways are getting out of control. The prizes are getting bigger and bigger and I don't remember it being like that when I first started blogging. I really admire that you're going to focus on other things and get back to your blogging roots!

-Sharon
The Tiny Heart
$50 PayPal Giveaway!

DSR said...

Keepin' it real, lady friend. And gimme those jewels. I want anything and everything from Litvas with the peyote stitch. My favorite is the Peyote Stitch Beaded Cuff Bracelet in Iris Khaki Metallic Bronze Red

Anonymous said...

I love the wire wrapped amethyst necklace. Thanks for a lovely giveaway!

Kym said...

Thank you for writing this post, Shana. I think sometimes we all need to be reminded that it's really the community interaction that's most important, not followers. We all know that probably only a fraction of our followers actually visit on a regular basis, and making sure that we have quality content for them is the top priority :)

That being said, I freaking love your outfit!!! It is utterly adorable and while I'm sitting here welcoming spring with snow on the ground, I'm feeling completely envious of your warm & sunny surroundings.

Thanks so much for the giveaway! I visited the shop and fell in love with the Red Sesame Jasper Gemstone Triple Wrap Leather Bracelet.

xo
Kym
bitty.and.bunny

Annie said...

I love everything you blog about, so you just keep it comin' girl :) And how freakin' CUUUUTE are you in that outfit?! Love the checks, love the denim, and love love love those shoes!

Annie
The Other Side of Gray

Carly said...

Love this, love you! I just tried on that dress......it's WAY cuter on you :-)

Carly
www.lipglossandcrayons.com

Unknown said...

My lovely friend, I need those shoes in my life. NOW. Like now, now.
That's all. LOVE YOU!
xxxx

kate @ a journey in style said...

I'm proud of you! I feel some bloggers are all about getting members (I used to be like that until I realized I would rather have a few genuine comments than lots and lots of "followers" who don't ever stop by my blog). The group giveaways would be awesome if you weren't required to follow someone's blog to enter-- I ended up only having a few entries every time because I wouldn't go out of my way to follow someone. The likelihood that they would come to my blog and that we'd establish a connection would be so small, especially compared to if I visited on a non-giveaway post (IMO). Awesome denim jacket, btw :)

Ashley @TheCreamToMyCoffee said...

I appreciate this post, Shanna! I'm sure having a lot of followers are great, but readers can always tell if a blogger is just trying to get more readers. It makes for some pretty boring content :( And the group giveaways... I get the idea of them, but I usually don't enter because I'm not going to follow anyone that I don't want to. I like to just stick with the blogs I love and just focus on maintaining a conversation with them.

Oh and I love the jacket - I am SO MAD that I got rid of mine way back when I thought they were never going to come back in style!

Unknown said...

I love the dress with denim and a pop of yellow! You look amazing! The shoes really stand out being they are brown and detailed.

Xo Chelsea
http://shesaidhesaid-fashion.blogspot.com/

Amy said...

first I love the checks- two, I totally know what you mean about the numbers game. I love your blog though and hope you know that!

Coffee Beans and Bobby Pins

Gigglosophy Giveaway!

Tiffany said...

I am proud of you for doing this! I usually don't enter group giveaways because there are too many people to follow and I don't just follow people to win. And I love your fashion posts so very much. Almost as much as I love those shoes and that entire outfit. xoxo.

Lindsey A. Turner said...

Love this outfit! That dress is adorable! Thanks for hosting!

Lindsey
thriftandshout.blogspot.com

Unknown said...

I am so thrilled to see someone else bringing back the jean jacket with me! I was obsessed with my jean jackets in HS and I'm so happy for it to be "cool" again:) I 100% agree with you about having people visit your blog sincerely because they enjoy what you post. I am a new follower (found you on Instagram) and I am loving your blog. It's relatable and real.
xox
Renee
www.stylewithastory.blogspot.com

Rach said...

I'm pretty surprised that denim is back too, ha!

I really appreciate what you wrote about wanting to return to your roots with the blog. I think that's a great idea! I'm with you on looking for relationships from blogging. I love being inspired by the blogs I read. :)

Niki {Glossy Blonde} said...

I have been feeling very much the same way lately, I want to connect with more people, not just have followers that may or may not be reading. I have been going back and forth about deleting my GFC box altogether until I actually make the move to Wordpress. I think not having that number glaring at me every time I sign in will make things much easier and make me more focused! And I LOVE your outfit!!!

Katy said...

Looooove all this jewelry. It always feels that much more special when you are wearing some gorg jewelry and someone comments on it and you can say you actually know the person who made it :) Keep up finding us wonderful things on your blog :)

Darcy said...

I really enjoy reading your blog. As a new blogger, I know I get so excited to have a new follower and see comments! Like you, though, I don't want that to become my whole focus. I want more people to read my blog AND I want to stay me.

(On a side note, I really loved your yellow purse in this post!)

www.corporategirlstyle.blogspot.com

Blue Dog Belle said...

This is perfect! I love it!

Unknown said...

Love this outfit! I'm so glad I found your blog! I like that jean jackets are more fashionable now...I've had my jean jacket since I was 12!

http://findingmyinspiration.blogspot.com/

Jeans and a Teacup said...

I think I've stayed away from group giveaways for that reason...I want my followers to be genuine and not just following me to win a prize. Which is maybe why my blog is still pretty small...haha.
Anyway, love your bright yellow bag!
~Jessica
Jeans and a Teacup

Anonymous said...

That outfit it totally adorbs! I'm loving the braided bracelets and sparkle toed shoes!

A Brew of Blessings said...

I too am lovin' the checkered!

Thanks for your honesty! It's so true that we can get so wrapped up in something else and forget the original purpose. I needed that reminder :)

Anne said...

That purse. LOVE.

And you, love even more.

Thanks for always speaking from the heart!!

still being [molly] said...

reason # 271038104981038 why i love you.

Ashleigh said...

First of all, I adore your outfit! Second of all, you are entirely correct. Fashion Blogging has become a numbers game. I would like if more of my favorite blogs got back to the fashion. I enjoy giveaways but I rarely enter then, as I always have to "like" something on facebook or GFC or bloglovin'. It's mainly the facebook thing. I can't see my friend's feeds because I have so many shops and stores on there! I would rather look at your outfit pics, see what you have to say, and indulge in a give a way now and then. You've got the right stuff lady!
-ash
www.thestylizedwannabe.com

Buttons Apart said...

I love your dress and the pop of colour with the yellow bag!

Sita xx
http://buttonsapart.blogspot.co.uk/

Courtney said...

I have always felt that you keep it real and are genuine, whatever you decide to do with your fabulous blog, I'm so happy to be along for the ride;) Love this post (and your adorable outfit):)

Unknown said...

I love the bright bag with this look!

www.kacieskloset.blogspot.com
www.daisyraeboutique.com

Kelly said...

great post :) glad you aren't just about the numbers!Love the wrap bracelets

Dani @ Wine Cheese and All The Things said...

I've said this before and I'll happily say it again - you hands down are the reason I like my closet again :) I'm not 100% pleased with it yet, but instead of just going to my normal leggings/yoga pants and tunic or sweatshirt (winter attire at it's best around here), I've actually started dressing myself again. Maybe not on the days I don't leave the house, but certainly when I do. I love you for what you write, and for the inspiration you pour out into this blog! Xoxo!!!

Inge Jane said...

This post is very refreshing. I don't want to follow a blog just to enter giveaways or to try to get more followers myself. I follow bloggers that seem genuine and represent their personality online (and having amazing style, of course!) Your outfit posts are always inspiring, so keep it up! =)

Shelley said...

Now this is an outfit I can get on board with! ;)

tara said...

oh hey denim jacket hey! loves it. you are a fab blogger, shanna. actually one of the best. i support you going back to your roots though. blogging has changed so much over the years and i kinda miss the simplicity of the old days.

Sarah @ Scissors and a Whisk said...

I love your outfit.
You make me want to go out and shop and spend money.
<3

Head to Toe Chic said...

i have been feeling the same way about blogging and giveaways and all that lately. I love that you're doing this! And your bag is so pretty :)

xo,
Angela

Sandy a la Mode said...

thanks for letting me link up!!

xo,
Sandy
Sandy a la Mode

Lindsay said...

Oh yay! I am glad that you are getting back to your roots. I love your posts and truthfully I never enter giveaways because I never win them! So I'm happy about this change. And I love that checkered dress. It's making me wish I wasn't pregnant right now :)

My-cliffnotes said...

You're the best! Thanks for being fab!

Delightful Deets said...

You are fabulous! Awesome, genuine post like always! Love this outfit!

Chris said...

I base my blog success not on the number of followers, but on the genuine and real friendships I've made. The blog world is becoming more and more confusing, catty and just plain old bitchy. Ain't nobody got time for that! Love ya!

lilliesandsilk said...

Love your outfit! Cute dress! Thanks for hosting the link up and have a good evening!


Carissa
Lillies & SIlk

Just Another Shopaholic said...

You are always so cute girlie!

Didi said...

Love her jewelry. Would love to win. I just started reading your blog and am enjoying all of your outfit choices.

Lori Carey said...

I love the Tiger Iron Chunky Gemstone Necklace.

On another note - I have been reading your blog for awhile. Sometimes I will comment, sometimes not. I do love the checkered look of today's outfit, along with the yellow. Such a happy color, you cannot help but smile when you are wearing it!

Mallory Hermann said...

I love this one http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/LitvasJewelry/6020260/nude_silk_crochet_and_czech_glass_long_necklace_bracelet_and_anklet/handmade/jewelry/necklaces/fiber

Stacey Kay said...

I'm bummed I missed the cut off to join this week. I love the ensemble you pulled together. I can relate to getting back to roots. I try to keep my blog simple. The blog world has exploded since I first started several years ago. Honestly, I don't even know how to go about some of these giveaways and getting sponsors, etc. I'm sticking to my tried and true. :)

Have a great day!

Chioma said...

eeeep! that dress and that bag is amazing!!

~Chioma
C's Evolution of Style

April Crisafulli said...

I like the Wire Wrapped Amethyst Gemstone and Czech Glass Pendant


April C.
acrisafu@nycap.rr.com

Unknown said...

I'd get the Wire Wrapped Amethyst Gemstone and Czech Glass Pendant
thanks!

MorganizewithMe said...

I just have to say that what I appreciate about you so much is how authentic you are! THAT is what drew me in and continues too!
xo
Morgan

Karrie said...

I LOVE the wire wrapped amethyst

DESIGN + DEVELOPMENT BY LET IT BE BEAUTIFUL