Insta Reel

Today we are in flight to one of the most magical places EVER, Cabo San Lucas. Plans have been going down for months for this epic trip to celebrate one of my very best friends in all the world. She is hitting a milestone birthday and I couldn't be more honored, pumped and beaming with glee to be able to celebrate with her in the flesh...adding the word "Mexico" to the mix doesn't hurt either!

I will try and not fill your Instagram feed with pictures every 20 minutes, but I can't make any promises. You can always follow along here in case you are curious.#teamsharona2015

If you missed any pics from my Instagram reel or don't have an account, I thought I would play catch up over the last few weeks of this month. It's been a fun-filled, busy one. Can you believe the 1st of March is this Sunday? Crazy to think, but welcoming it with open arms....I am over winter and all it's layers. Anybody with me?

 J.Crew Factory Blazer (old: option here) // Joe Fresh Polka Dot Top (old: option) // Vigoss Denim (similar) // Forever 21 Lace-Up Booties (sold out: super similar) // Forever 21 Tote 

I wore this casual and celebratory look on Valentine's Day for a dinner/movie night out with Ross. We saw 50 Shades of Grey and even though I did enjoy the movie, the 1st book was a heck of a lot better. Please don't judge my character on the reading material I partake in...it was all in good fun. Wink-Wink. ;)

My youngest, Landry, (a.k.a Sparkle Monkey, LuLu, Texas Tornando, Lu Bear) turned the BIG 7 this month. We planned a Valentine's Day themed birthday bash for her and seven of her besties. Photo props were in full effect along with decorating heart shaped cookies, strawberry shortcake popcorn, duct tape flower pens, more crafting and of course more cookies.

So, you know how Ross surprised us with Gus over a year ago?? Well, he thought it would be "fun" to throw another one at us by doubling our dog pleasure. Yep, we will be adding another German Shorthaired Pointer to our family in a few weeks. His name is Bandit Beau and is 7 months old. I am still on the fence about having another dog in our home and not the happiest mom on the cul-de-sac. Knowing Gus will have a brother/sidekick and the kids being thrilled beyond belief makes it more tolerable. I will keep y'all posted. Wish me luck!

Speaking of Gus, I couldn't help but share this pic of him and Landry out at the deer lease. As much as this picture looks staged....it's far from it. I walked up to these two hooligans playing pretend on their so-called Safari Hunt. And in case you are wondering, this old Jeep still runs like a champ...on back roads. 

Espadrilles // Tassel Lace-Up Gladiators // Metallic Slide-Ons

I have said it once and I will say it until the day they lay me to rest....Target is the bees knees. Their spring collection of shoes is off the charts. Call it having a shopping/shoe problem, totally legit statement, but spring and summer are around the corner and I needed a few upgrades...affordable ones. I cannot take the metallic slide-ons off...expect to see lots more of these in the near future.

Old Navy Top (similar) // Old Navy Floral Slip-On Sneakers // Wrenn Jewelry Druzy Ring c/o // Forever 21 Gold Band // Daniel Wellington Watch // Alex and Ani Bangles 

Before the big chill hit town, we were enjoying spring-like weather here in Austin. I have been reaching for all things bright and floral...insert printed canvas sneakers and a bold pink top. I wore this outfit for a day of running errands and a much need hair appointment.

Enough said when it comes to fun mugs and laid back weekend mornings. Old Navy has some super cute graphic print mugs for super affordable prices. They make great gifts for friends or for yourself! :) They are available in store only.

Forever 21 Graphic Tee // ASOS Pom Pom Shorts (love these, these AND these too) // Mossimo Metallic Sandals // Banana Republic Woven Clutch (old: fun option here and here) // Lisi Lerch Tassel Necklace c/o 

Last but surely not least, here is one of the outfits I packed with me for Cabo. I have a thing for pom-poms and tassels....to me they scream summer and warmer days. Plus, this graphic tee is the perfect reminder for us all. 

See you guys soon and don't forget to follow along during our trip on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter. Cabo Countdown has officially ended...it's time for the real deal!

Basic and Solid

Things are still a bit chilly around here. The kids had a two hour delay for school yesterday. Not really sure what the reason was other than the smart district administrators knew we wanted to stay in bed for a few extras hours. 

I figured while the 30 degree temps are here I might as well get the last bit of beanie wear in...plus it's a perfect excuse to not fix my hair.

This is one of the easiest styles ever....black on black on black paired with a motto leather jacket and pops of a color fave...Maroon, Burgundy or a darker shade of Marsala....call it what you will. 

Keeping it basic and patternless doesn't have to be boring and bland. By adding snaps of color and statement accessories you can take your solid pieces to the next level and make them all your own.

Wallis Jacket c/o  (sold out: very similar here and here) // Forever 21 Tunic (old: option here and here) // Old Navy Black Denim // Liz Claiborne Riding Boots via JcPenney // RocksBox Necklace c/o (use code BECAUSESHANNAXOXO for a free 30-day subscription) // T&J Designs Clutch c/o (sold out: option here) // Forever 21 Beanie // Wrenn Jewelry Druzy Rings c/o

 (If you are linking up today, my 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!)

Mix Match

Well, I was waiting for it and it came. Another cold snap hit Texas yesterday, but I feel like I shouldn't really complain since there isn't any snow or ice involved. 

I have kind of lost my winter styling/outfit spark. I have been focusing on our beach vacation and upcoming spring looks due to our recent 75+ degree weather. Most of my winter attire has been sort of shoved to the back of my closet and mind.

I should have known better than to think we were finished with Winter. It is Texas after all. One day we are wearing flip-flops and shorts and two days later layered up with rain boots and beanies. Gotta love the spontaneity of it all.

Anyway, this outfit isn't a new combination for me. I am a big fan of mixing prints and patterns, especially when I feel as though my closet ideas are spent and I need to get creative with what I already own.

Camouflage mixed with plaid are two of  my favorite prints to mix. I think it's because they are such an unexpected team. They have come through for me time and again....both together and separately. So, if you're suffering from the winter blues and finding yourself in an outfit funk, try spicing things up by combining unpredictable prints you already have hanging in your closet

Happy mixing and meshing.

Xhilaration Camouflage Utility Jacket (old: great options here, here and here) // Old Navy Plaid Oxford (similar here and here) // Vigoss Denim (similar) // Gigi New York Madison Crossbody c/o // Banana Republic Rain Boots (old: similar here and here) // Forever 21 Scarf (option) // La Mer Watch c/o (similar)

Here is another camo/plaid mix from almost two years ago when we were in London. My, oh my, time flies!! Reading through this post again put all kinds of smiles on my face. :)

Seeing Double

I was talking with one of my girlfriends yesterday about lots of things, but of course clothes and shopping came up in our conversation. She mentioned that she was in a bit of a funk with her wardrobe. We have all been there, right?

The thing is, you don't have to look that hard to find affordable, quality and classic pieces that can be remixed over and over. If you have been reading for any length of time, you know that I am a savvy and budget conscious shopper/blogger. I don't feel the need to invest in super expensive items. However, I will splurge every now and again on a pair of shoes.

I truly believe that most clothes are made with similar quality. Just because the price tag on a particular piece reads $200 doesn't necessarily mean it's better than say, the almost identical $40 dollar item in a store next door.

I have done my fair share of shopping and can confidently and safely report that I have had some of the same dresses, shoes, jeans and tops for 5 or more years. I can almost guarantee each of them cost  less than $50.

Take for instance the outfit I am wearing today from Old Navy. Every piece is basic, but when mixed together, created something that fits MY personal style preference. Old Navy has always been one of my go-to spots when adding to my closet. Yes, many of us will all own the same dress, scarf, pair of shoes or jacket, but we can take those items and make them our own and at an affordable price. Plus, when this outfit is taken apart and put back in my closet, I'll feel good knowing that each piece will be worn again with completely different items and produce a fresh and new look.

Old Navy Stripe Linen Blazer // Old Navy Stripe Oxford // Old Navy Pants (Run big. Size Down) // Old Navy Peep Toe Shoes // Clutch (old: option) // Daniel Wellington Watch c/o // Wrenn Jewelry Druzy Ring, Necklace and Bangle // Kendra Scott Elle Earrings c/o // Gold Spike Bracelet (old: option)

Have a great weekend and as always, thank you for stopping by!! See y'all Monday! xoxo

Light Layers

Monday and Tuesday called for layering up again, but not to the degree of what some of you guys are experiencing. However, it did snow in parts of Texas, just not our part. Hang in there ladies, spring is just around the corner.

Speaking of spring, I think one of the most important pieces to own for the upcoming season is a solid, lighter weight jacket or blazer. The mornings and evenings in March/April tend to be cooler than the daytime temps and it's  nice to have a basic topper for dresses and tops. Plus, they can transform simple outfits into a more polished and put together style.

This belted coat is one of my favorite items that I added to my closet earlier this year. It comes in two other colors and is a versatile piece that has taken me from a dressier look (seen here) to a more casual, weekday style.

SheInside Belted Coat c/o // Forever 21 Stripe Turtleneck // Old Navy Black Denim // Sam Edelman Heels (similar) // Forever 21 Bag (sold out: great option here and here) // Forever 21 Necklace (option here and here) // Wrenn Jewelry Rings c/o 

In case you're wondering about these Sam Edelman pumps... I looked EVERYWHERE to try and find them for y'all. Believe me, I wanted to share the glorious goods that I discovered at DSW and crazy steal of a deal. Unfortunately, I couldn't find them anywhere online. You may want to check your local DSW to see if they have them. BUT, I did come across the exact style in different colors and patterns. If you are looking for a lower heel shoe, the Sam Edelman Okala design is for you. I am still thinking about going back and getting the leopard print. They're that good!

Here is another way I styled this coat.

P.S. Don't forget about the Nordstrom clearance sale going on RIGHT NOW!! Hurry, items are going fast and the sale ends February 22nd! Happy shopping! xoxo

 (If you are linking up today, my 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!)

Free Your Mind

“This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and DripDrop®, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #DrinkDripDrop #DripDropHydrates http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV”

I talked a little bit about my fitness routine earlier this year and mentioned in my 2015 goals that getting back into shape and taking my exercise regimen seriously was going to be a top priority.

Last October, something told me to buck up and pull into 9Round Fitness in Round Rock. I had noticed the sign numerous times driving by to get a pedicure (they're in the same shopping center). Anyway, I walked in and chatted it up with the owner. The next day I had my first workout (your first one is always FREE) and I have been hooked ever since.

I needed something that was fast, fun, motivating and effective. This is a hardcore 30-minute circuit workout using boxing gloves, bags, weights and resistance. The beauty is that you can go at anytime during the day...no classes or schedules. 

It didn't happen over night, but I am finally starting to see a difference in my body, muscles reforming, stamina growth, greater strength and better sleeping patterns. 

I have stuck to my personal expectations for myself, and it's truly mind freeing; a weird sort of high. Taking all life's stress out on a punching bag, letting it all go and pushing my limits while "Tootsie Roll" & "Eye of the Tiger" blares over the speakers is a 30-minute adrenaline rush.  

But something else needed to be added to my healthier habits...kicking my extreme Diet Dr. Pepper habit. You guys, I would open a can on my way to the gym and finish it off after my workout. Crazy, right? You would think I hadn't heard of the word "water" before.

I started getting a little weak and would sometimes feel like I was going to pass out cold a few times when I first started a few months ago. Hmmmmm, I wonder why??? It's not rocket science. I was dehydrated and needed more water in my life. 

I have always struggled with drinking enough throughout the day. I need to have a "flavor" in my beverage. Simple water doesn't do it for me. But, I knew I had to figure out a way to drink more...for my own good. 

Enter DripDrop Hydration Powder. It has been a lifesaver over the last few weeks. I pack a bottle of water and pour a packet in after every workout. I really love the berry flavor, but they have a lemon one too. It's made drinking water more tolerable and I finish off a bottle in no time flat. I have also noticed a huge difference in how I feel after a workout. It is an awesome and easy way to get refueled and rehydrated...anytime during the day.

Old Navy Top & Bottoms / Asics Tennis Shoes

DripDrip Hydration Powder is a simple & cost effective solution to treat mild to moderate dehydration with safe, medical grade solution for everyone in your family (age one year and older).

Take advantage of $1 off with the purchase of any one box of DripDrop Hydration Powder at CVS, located in the baby aisle now through 2/21/15 or while supplies last. You can download the coupon here:http://dripdrop.com/cvscoupon/.