Carry On

Happy Friday and last day of February! I am ready for the weekend with family. Logan has her school talent show tonight and then the girls and Ross have a Daddy/Daughter dance to attend on Saturday. It's a luau theme full of grass skirts, leis, surfboards and hula dancing. I can't wait to show y'all a picture before they head out. On the other hand, I am not so ready for the laundry list of things that we need get done around the house over the next two days.

Forever 21 Top // Gap Boyfriend Denim (option here and here)  // Old Navy Flats // Olivia and Joy Bag c/o (option here and here) // Forever 21 Necklace // Love Always Bar Necklace c/o // Giggolosophy Heart Ring c/o // Wrenn Jewelry Druzy Ring c/o // Forever 21 Stack Rings (option) // Alex & Ani Bracelet c/o The Jeweler's Wife // Lilac Bijoux XO Cuff c/o 

In other news, Love Always sent me this necklace and I absolutely LOVE it! I was able to personalize it exactly how I wanted. Stephanie, the store owner offers the sweetest personality bar necklaces where you can customize your own gold or silver plate.  She also has a few pre-made sayings that you can immediately add to your cart.

I wanted something meaningful. Now when I look down, no matter my day (good or bad), I can remind myself of two simple, but powerful words. I wrote down several ideas, but kept going back to "Carry On". It's one of my favorite songs from Pat Green. We have been fans of his for years, and one this relates to my life on so many levels.

Life will make sure that you got your troubles,

Life will make sure that you work too hard,

Ain't nobody that don't get tired,

Watching troubles pile up big in your own backyard,

Sometimes you've got to grab your world with your own two hands,

Set it spinning off on a course all your own,

Take yourself a big bag for your shoulder,

Find yourself some good times, bring them on back home.

 

...and just Carry On.

Love Always is offering an exclusive discount to my readers. Enjoy 20% OFF your order by using the code SHANNA20 at checkout. Happy shopping!
Have a great weekend and enjoy your time whatever it is you spend doing.

P.S. The pattern dress posted from yesterday is a crowd favorite so far. The magenta one is a close second. Thanks for playing, all the helpful comments and emails. You ladies seriously are the BEST!! xoxo

An Evening in Bollywood

Do you remember when I asked you guys a few short days ago whether or not I should get this dress on Instagram? You know, the one I ended up buying, wearing and stressed about a teensy-weensy too much. Well, friends, it's time for Round 2. I am on the hunt for another dress for another gala next month. 

I know. I know. I should wear the one that I just purchased, but this event is different. It actually has a theme (I live for themes)...imagine a Bombay storyline, Hollywood glam, Henna body art, an actual scarf/bangle booth and possibly a jeweled head piece. 

The words written across the invitation are, "An Evening in Bollywood." I haven't attended any sort of party that's centered around this jingle, so I was somewhat stumped on what sort of attire I should look for. Of course I turned to my two BFFs, Pinterest and Google. My imagination began to run wild with ideas and possibilities. This time I am not going to stress and just have fun with it.

I decided that I will be renting a dress from Rent the Runway. I am a little nervous about choosing something without trying it on in a dressing room, but they send over two sizes. I will be wishing on my upcoming Henna tattoo that the "chosen" one fits.

Magenta // Orange // Gold // Red // Burgundy // Patterned 

Now, this is where I need your help. I thought it would be fun to set up a poll for you to vote on what dress you think would work best for Bollywood attire. There are two dresses that are front runners, but I am all about getting opinions from my ladies. It will take just a second and I would love to hear your thoughts. Also, leave me a note below if you have gotten a dress from Rent the Runway and tips you may have.

One last request (I am needy today), if you have attended a Bollywood event and have suggestions for accessories, please share. I have a decent idea and vague vision of what I want, but you guys are such great inspiration.

What dress should I get?
	Magenta
	Orange
	Gold
	Red
	Burgundy
	Patterned
pollcode.com free polls

Thank you!! xoxo

Five Wallis Winners

I cannot believe it's almost been a year since I became the US Blogger Ambassador for Wallis. If you have been a reader friend since then, you guys know what a moment that was for me. To this day, I am beyond grateful for the opportunity that I experienced. I mean, a trip to London for a girl that had never left U.S. soil except for Mexico was an experience in itself. That moment, the day it was announced, will never be forgotten in my mind. I still remember the knots I had in my stomach the entire afternoon, waiting for Wallis to announce the winner. I will also never forget who the first person was that told me I had won; it was posted on Twitter and Facebook before I even knew. I cried like a baby because finally, after years of shying away from anything like this, I put myself out there and gained enough confidence to go for something with all my heart. Once afraid of rejection, judgement by others and not thinking I was "good" enough, I suddenly became a different person that day. That may sound crazy and over the top, but it's true. It enabled me to believe in myself again and to go after my passions, goals, aspirations, dreams....no matter what people saw/thought from the outside looking in.

Wallis Jumpsuit c/o //Go Jane Heels (option here and here) // Forever 21 Bag // Forever 21 Bracelet (option)// Wrenn Jewelry Druzy Ring c/o // Gigglosophy Heart Ring c/o // Target Earrings (option here and here) // Essie No Place Like Chrome Polish

Not only did I get the opportunity to travel to one of the most historic and brilliant cities in all of the world, I was blessed to have done it along side my best friend and met some of the most amazing new friends from Wallis.

I know the relationship that was formed will be a long lasting one. I look forward to partnering with Wallis through 2014 and for years to come. Their product and team are impeccable and I truly stand behind their brand. It has been an honor and an absolute highlight.

As we all know, a new season is upon us and once again Wallis has introduced a stellar line for Spring. Below are a few of my favorites, one I am wearing today. This jumpsuit is not only classic and sophisticated, but comfortable enough for everyday wear. I know this is going to be a piece that I will wear for months, if not years to come. It doesn't require much thought when styling. It's key is timeless simplicity.

To kick off the new Spring line, Wallis is giving FIVE lucky readers the chance to score $100 worth of clothing. Five winners. Five prizes. This is Rafflecopter is definitely worth your time! Good luck!

This contest is open internationally to all those who are 18 years of age.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 **If you are linking up today, the only request is that you follow my blog with GFC or Bloglovin' and link back to it in your post. It's how weekly link ups work. Oh, and go meet some new friends! 

 

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Linking up with The Pleated Poppy.

Another Pair of Leopard

You know you really want a pair of shoes when you start putting together virtual outfits with similar items you have in your closet just to prove to yourself that you will indeed wear them...with lots and lots of things. 

WEEKDAY LUNCH DATE

Top // Denim Jacket // Maxi Skirt // Tassel Necklace // Crossbody // Sunglasses // Leopard Sneakers

SUNDAY FUNDAY

State Graphic Tee // Denim Shorts // Fedora // Watch // Sunglasses// Woven Tote // Leopard Sneakers

SHOPPING WITH THE GIRLS

Dress w/ Belt // Hat // Bag // Bracelets // Sunglasses // Leopard Sneakers // Lip Gloss

I have been thinking about these leopard, pony hair Steve Madden slip-on sneakers  ten times a day for over a month now. I just haven't been able to bring myself to spend $100 on a pair of shoes...another leopard pair for that matter. You ladies know I am frugal and get most of my footwear from Forever 21, DSW, Old Navy or Target. I have even Googled "leopard sneakers" to see if I could find a similar pair for a smaller price tag. I have seen a few friends post that they found a pair at the Gap and River Island, but they are not online. I am going to sleep on it one more night, then either bite the bullet or move on to something new that I'll obsess over during the month of March.

What do you ladies think? You know how I love getting your opinions and thoughts on these types of serious, life changing dilemmas. :) 

The Dress

Ross and I attended a charity gala on Saturday. We went last year for the first time and I got a pretty good idea what most of the women wear to this type function. It's truly a little bit of everything. Austin is a pretty laid back and eclectic city so, really anything goes; sequins, silk, short or maxi dresses and even skirts with dressier tops. This year when I was searching for a dress, I knew I wanted find something that I could wear again.

BCBG Max Azria Dress (other options I love here and here) // Chinese Laundry Heels (option here and here) // DSW Wristlet Clutch (option here and here) // Forever 21 Earrings (option here and here) // Forever 21 Bangles // Stella & Dot Bracelet

I came across this dress at the BCBG Max Azria outlet for way too good of a deal to pass up. I posted it on Instagram asking for opinions. Half of you told me to purchase it and the other half didn't think it was dressy enough for a gala. It was fun reading all the comments. I was a little worried that I would be under dressed, but knew if I could play up my hair (thanks to this Pinterest inspiration), create a dramatic look with my eye makeup and add metallic accessories, I could make a more casual style become a bit more glam. I was pleased with how everything turned out and now I have a dress that won't hang in my closet to never be worn again. 

We had a really nice time and enjoyed our date. The food was stellar and the entertainment, ahem, tipsy women on the dance floor, was quite the comedy show. I have a feeling that there were a few sore heads and bodies Sunday morning. Not even kidding when I say one woman did the centipede in her dress, not once but three times. Why didn't I get that on video? I am still asking myself that same question. 

Minted

A few of you asked me to post actual pictures wearing these Forever 21 denim joggers. Some of you weren't sold on the style and fit. I couldn't wait to show you how how they looked on a real person, other than the model on Forever 21's website. What do you think? I am personally still a fan and I have already worn them three times. They are a fun play off regular denim. The dark wash that I am wearing today is sold out online, but the lighter wash is still available. I also found another option that I linked to below. A girl just can't go wrong with an elastic waist that is not only flattering, but comfortable too!

Wallis Blazer c/o (option here and here) // Joe Fresh Oxford (option here and here) // Forever 21 Joggers (option here and here) // Zara Metallic Heels (option here) // DSW Metallic Clutch (option here and here) // Edith Marie Necklace c/o // Forever 21 Bangle Set 

I recently discovered another affordable jewelry/accessory website. Edith Marie is an amazing online storefront full of pieces that won't break the bank. They carry more than a dozen items that cost much less than other sites I have come across and the quality is stellar. The necklace in today's post is from Edith Marie and I plan on styling it with so many outfits for the upcoming season. They are adding new product to their site on a weekly basis, so make sure to check back often!

Today, Edith Marie is offering one lucky friend the chance to win any piece from their website. You read that right. The winner will be able to choose any item of their choosing. Just follow the Rafflecopter below. Good luck and have a great weekend!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Adaptation

Adapt - make (something) suitable for a new use or purpose; modify. 

I want start by saying that this isn't a typical post, but one that has been tugging at my heart for the last few days. 

It all started with our dog, Gus, coming home after a 7 week long bird dog training camp. I am not quite sure how an animal could instill such thought provoking idiosyncrasies, but he did.

This little spotted guy of ours has been through the mill. He's bounced around from place to place over the last four months of his life. He started with a friend, then a friend's son, next onto our family, two weeks later to a training camp with 20+ other dogs and finally back home, his final destination. 

If I were him I would be a basket case.

I just don't handle change or adaptation well. If a wrench is thrown into everyday life I get in a tizzy, and want to most of the time, throw my hands in the air and call it quits.

For instance, I don't like sleeping in any other bed but my own, have shopped at the same places for years, dined at the same establishments over and over, have the same group of close friends that I made in high school and college, my bedroom furniture is 14 years old, feel weird when I buy something new to eat at the grocery store, devastated when my favorite radio DJs that I listened to for over 10 years were canned (even though I REALLY didn't listen anymore) and every single school year I freak out about my kids' new teachers and cry when we have to say goodbye to the ones they had that current year. 

I DO NOT adapt well. Period. Why? I don't know. I guess I am a classic case of a creature of habit. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't.

I plan to take lessons from my dog. It's kind of crazy when I sit and think about it, but at the same time it makes perfect sense.

We, as humans, get in this horrible trend of going with the flow, the motions and the every day hustle and bustle of life. If one thing changes up our routine we go into convulsions. Okay, maybe I am just speaking for myself, but I am sure most of you can relate.

This isn't the case for animals, at least my dog. He is a machine when it comes to taking life in strides and learning to adapt to his surroundings. 

Let me digress.

When he came home to us the first time it was as if we had him since he was born. No issues with restroom breaks outside, eating or sleeping habits. Two weeks later we dropped him off at camp. I thought my heart was being ripped from my body. I couldn't help but think that he thought we had abandoned him. Wrong. He did fine. He made friends and according to his trainer was at the top of is class. We brought him home and voila, he is EXACTLY the same as he was before he left, expect better. He sleeps on the same pillow that he did before, gets up at the same time in the morning to go out for a potty break, eats at the identical times, is as cuddly and protective (if not more) than before, calmer, more disciplined and as happy as ever. It's like he never left. 

How is this possible?

Maybe it's because of animals' short life years and their memories are actually well beyond humans. I am not sure. At the end of the day, our lives are numbered as well. We don't know when our last day here on earth will be, so why not embrace the changes, welcome, adapt and celebrate them. Easier said than done. I know, but I am learning thanks to a four-legged friend/family member that has taught me so much already. 

 

Cowgirl Boots Crossed

I completely understand if some of you do not relate to this style. That's okay. Just envision it with riding or ankle boots. It can easily be replicated with a simple change of footwear, but I had to slip on my cowgirl boots for one last push. Push? Yes, push. 

Forever 21 Dress (option here and here) // Goodnight Macaroon Vest c/o (on sale) // Tony Lama Boots // Express Crossbody c/o (option here and here) // KO Jewelry Necklace c/o // Forever 21 Belt (option) // Lilac Bjoiux Bow Bangle c/o // Forever 21 Black Bangle (option) // Michael Kors Watch c/o The Jeweler's Wife  

Maybe push isn't the best word, but it was the first one that came to mind. I chatted with you guys a month or so ago about how I longed to become the official style correspondent for the iHeartRadio Country Festival. This isn't a contest. I am not in the running with anyone. There is no voting. It's is a role that I conjured up in my own head. I was unable to score tickets because the festival sold out faster than I could grab a pair online. I thought, why not apply for a couple of press passes and blog about it while having some fun along the way.

I am not asking for a handout just because I have a blog. I fully intend to work this event, share some styling tips beforehand, promote it and all it's glory and give everyone up-to-date details before, during and after the show.

I applied for an iHeartRadio Country Festival pass several weeks ago. They will announce the press pass "awards" on March 1st. This is do or die, people. If you have been reading my rambles for any length of time you know that I am a die hard country music fan and every single performer(s) that will be on stage are on my "I LOVE YOU" list.

This is one of the hottest tickets in town. I am sure that every radio station DJ and editorial reporter has applied for this pass. I would too. Um, I did, and I did it because I know that I can add a different spin on the event. My hopes are to reel in an additional audience and still keep current country music fans engaged. 

I am 100% putting myself out there to you and everyone else that is reading. I am okay with that; I think. If I didn't try to win iHeartRadio's heart, come March 29th I would wonder if I could have made it happen for myself. You never know if you don't try. So, here I am trying, asking and promising that I won't let any of you down.

I will keep y'all posted if I am accepted or rejected. Cowgirl boots crossed for the next few weeks!

 **If you are linking up today, the only request is that you follow my blog with GFC or Bloglovin' and link back to it in your post. It's how weekly link ups work. Oh, and go meet some new friends! 

 

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Linking up with The Pleated Poppy.