Goodbye 2016…

This year, to say the least has been kind of a difficult year. My rheumatologist told me that I had osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia to go along with the Hashimoto’s disease I already have. Amongst other things, these medical hiccups made blogging a bit more difficult. As the saying goes, “small things to a giant”. Right? Well, I must say that I am proud of myself! I stuck with my guns and continued to build on my blog. 

I thought about sharing a behind the scenes post, so any potential bloggers can see the reality of blogging. It truly is work and not leisurely activity. Work that I enjoy! This year, I’ve worked with some amazing companies, shared some real life reviews and met some awesome people while networking. All of these (and more) have helped me experience growth this year. I’m proud of that growth. I worked hard this year and despite everything that seemed to work against me, I feel extremely accomplished. 

I am thankful to all of you who take the time to read my posts and peek at my pictures. I appreciate so very much the growing support! Thank you to all of the companies that allowed me to review their products and those that collaborated with me. I hope to continue working relationships and build even more from here! 

This post is not about my look but I’m glad to share what I’m wearing and where you can grab the pieces to complete this look. 2017 will bring more looks, ideas, life hacks, some d-i-y projects, reviews, lookbooks and more! The next post will be the last this year so let’s all wave (insert hand waving emoji here) bye to 2016! Hello 2017! Let’s all be great! 

Coat: thrifted, similar here and here. Jeans: JC Penney, similar here. Denim blouse: thrifted, similar here. Pumps: Pleaser Pumps. 


Clouds Roll In…

I’ve always prided myself on being a cheerleader for others and a source of encouragement. I am never the person that wants to put another person down. I view it as unhealthy and adds no value to who I am as a person. 

I had a “friend” that didn’t mind tearing others down. Since “bad associations spoil useful habits” I fell into a brief trap of being critical. I regret that because that’s not me…at all! That negativity dragged me down. I’m human and I can admit my wrongs. I’m an encourager by nature and I intend to continue that way. Negativity is like (figurative) clouds. I love real clouds and I love cloudy days. But figuratively speaking, clouds block shine and cast shadows and shade. It’s depressing and an intemperate state of mind. No good for anyone. 

I used to want to be a nurse. They are extremely critical to the care of a patient.  Nurses used to wear caps. The caps symbolized their being “highly capable“. I’m wearing a cap in this outfit to symbolize my contribution to the mental health of others as well as myself. Being positive does more than we think. I’m highly capable of being a person of influence but what I choose to do with that influence is truly important. My goal is to continue my quest to always be positive, encouraging and heartening. Negative vibes is and never will be me! 

Anyhoo, my outfit is basic, the focus being on my message. Although I will say these shorts make me look bigger than I am. They’re a size 29! Welp, let me know what you think anyway and if you have any other thoughts, let’s chat! 

*All clothing are from closet finds (old).