SUMMER 2024

 I. LOVE. SUMMER!!! I give Vivian most of the credit as she makes it so much FUN! (Add her to the top of the #582 reasons I'm content with my choice to leave my corporate career) 

I still work part time, and it's going to be a challenge to do so with Vivian out of school but with a little planning and prioritization (and an awesome boss) this 3rd summer at my job should go swimmingly! 

Note: I know that Summer is different for everyone - no matter your circumstances, this season can be sweet and memorable.

Growing up my Mama made a Summer List with us of all the things we wanted to do, goals to reach and fun adventures to go on. I've continued this tradition my entire life.

This season is often a break from routine and has room to add things that you love.

Here are 10 things on my Summer list ...

BEACH

I want to stand with my toes in the sand at the ocean as much as I possibly can.

I'm starting this Wednesday on Kiawah Island!

SPLASH

When we are not at the beach, I want to splash at the pool as much as I possibly can.

LEARN

Pickle Ball! I've had my first lesson last week and am excited to learn to play the sport.

PLAY

Mah Jong. I received a game set for Christmas and want to learn and host Mah Jong game nights with my gal pals at least 3 times this Summer.

MEMORIZE

Vivian and I together are going to memorize 1 bible verse each week.

These are going to be short (she's 6) and I want to set us up for success to continue this practice all year long.

  This is a great resource for verses. 

READ

I want to read 10 books and Vivian is signing up to read 40 hours that aligns with a program at her school.

Send me your recommendations! 

ORGANIZE

I have this daunting project of organizing my photos in to books.

It's A LOT but I've been putting it off for 6 years and need to just start!

HOST

I have plans to have my niece stay with us for 'Cousin Camp'. The girls will attend VBS together and I have so many activities planned for them.

CHEERS

I'm jazzed to cheers with popsicles & lemonade with our friends big and small.

But with Ryan and my gal pals - make it bubbles and palomas on the patio!

COLLECT

Along with seashells & sharks' teeth, I want to collect memories with my family and my friends! 

I encourage you to make a list of things you want to do, place to go and memories to make.

Place it on your fridge (that's what my Mama did) and enjoy making that list a reality!

Dress Beautifully Making Summer Memories

XOXO Sarah Louise

PLAY CLOTHES

 "Play clothes" is what we called clothes we literally played in growing up. These were pieces that we wore at home that were ok to get dirty and comfortable to move around in. It was a way to differentiate dress up clothes from the ones we wouldn't get in trouble for messing up in. 

This week Vivian and I are on a Spring Break adventure with a trip around NC. Our first stop was a picnic and visit to a park in Raleigh. I don't want to just watch Vivian play, I want to race, climb and jump in with her. So I'll have to dress for play.

TEE - TENNIS SKIRT

My play clothes in this season of life is most commonly a tennis skirt and tee.

I''m very fond of tennis skirts as they're girlie,  provide coverage, comfortable, and even have pockets on the undershorts! (If it can hold a tennis ball, it can also hold my phone & keys). 

For exercise I pair with a workout top but for play I choose a cotton tank or tee. I truly find this look to be pretty and functional!

Dress Beautifully in Clothes You Can Play In

XOXO Sarah Louise

Transitions with Tenacity

Transitions are hard! And I've had some doozies in my life. Getting married (then spending the first 3 years a plane ride away), career positions, becoming a military wife with a year long deployment, getting a dog and the best for last, becoming a Mamma! There have also been many relationship changes and sadly some loss. 

The truth is life doesn't stay the same. Things change, seasons come and go and there's nothing you can do to stop it. Watching your child grow is one of the most fitting examples to just how fast time flies.

My darling Vivian Louise is now in kindergarten and this is by far one of the biggest transitions for me (she's doing amazing!). I'm grieving the end of her preschool years. It's nearly a month in and I'm still adjusting with tears most mornings at drop off.

Whether it's moving, a new job, family growth or any lifestyle shift it's can be overwhelming.

So how do you handle transitions with grace? Well, I'm still working on it but here are some things that have encouraged me over the years. 

START WITH GRATITUDE

I believe it's important to be grateful for the 'before'. It was a purposeful circumstance that gave a lot. Appreciate the season and what it taught you so that you start the new one in a mindset of valuing what's ahead.

Note: Be sure to express thankfulness to those people that were impactful.

PRESENT OVER PERFECTION

Chances are transitions won't go how you planned or maybe you don't even know what to imagine the new season to be like. Being present, accepting the possibilities creates a positive mindset. Embracing where you are rather than comparing to what you thought/hoped for allows you to take full advantage of the present.

BE FLEXIBLE

This is hilarious for me to share as I'm super Type A and an Enneagram 1. I exist in a structured and planned environment and struggle the most at being flexible. However, it is necessary!! It takes time to establish a routine and in the mean time it's important to stay calm in the chaos, leave room for the unexpected and find the bright side. Slowly but surely a new rhythm will be established (hopefully not too soon before a new transition haha).

Transitions don't often pair with the word 'fun', but I dare you to incorporate fun anyways! 

Remember: Doing hard things leads to good things!

Dress Beautifully in Transitions

XOXO Sarah Louise

Confessions of my 5th Year of Motherhood

FIVE!!!!! I've been mothering Vivian Louise for FIVE years! I'm in awe and full of gratitude for the blessing of these past 5 years. This 5th birthday had a big impact on me. 

To me 5 represents a big girl and one that will be off to kindergarten. 5 isn't a toddler anymore and she's a graduate of preschool. 5 is a girl that is capable of so much and shares so much all on her own. 5 is a whole hand, half a decade and a milestone door into a year of big milestones! 

These annual posts on my journey as a mother are my most favorite to write because of all the things I do, being wife and mother are my most important. They are purposeful roles God has bestowed upon me and I pray I steward them well.

Here are the last 4 years of confessionals ...

Confessions of my 1st Year

Confessions of my 2nd Year

Confessions of my 3rd Year

Confessions of my 4th Year

A lot has stayed the same year after year. I've always maintained a strict schedule, wake up at 5am every day for time alone to do ALL the things, exercise daily, drink big cups of piping hot black coffee twice a day, dress us alike as often as I can, rarely give her a bath, struggle to get her to eat a variety of foods, but most importantly I continue to put down the to do list to play and have fun! 

My Confessions of my 5th Year of Motherhood ...

I'm Back in the Office

My first day of work 2-2-2022

I chose to leave my corporate career after holding our darling tiny girl in my arms. I've had to practice having contentment throughout these years as a part of me has missed it greatly. After receiving a few opportunities that were not a fit I had a friend connect me with a medical practice that needed administrative contribution that was part time and was completely work from home. From my first phone call with my boss it has been a perfect fit! 

I feel so valuable contributing to the business and having the ability to still maintain my lifestyle and responsibilities to my family.  It has been a rewarding addition. Even Vivian has a little desk set up next to mine for when I have to work when she's home from school.

I'm a Cheerleader

Vivian is continuing to take tap & ballet lessons and we've added gymnastics (her favorite!) and swim lessons. Soon she'll start soccer. I'm officially toting her to and from and I don't mind it one little bit.  It actually gives me ample opportunity to work uninterrupted and run errands. I've even made some mamma Friends. 

It's so exciting to see her learn new things and accomplish new goals. I absolutely love cheering her on!

I've Established a Village

Good Godly friendships is something I've been praying for since being in this season of motherhood. I've craved fellowship, understanding and fun. There have been times of frustrations (I need not to mention the isolation of 2020) but in His timing He has purposefully and perfectly placed the loveliest ladies in my life to love and encourage me! It truly takes a village and I'm so grateful I've been gifted a great one!

I Lead

I have a long history of leadership in nonprofits including being president of one and I've been leading a Sunday School class for high school girls for years now. This year alongside my dearest gal pal we are leading a 'Mothers of Preschoolers' group. It is a part of an international group that I highly recommend to all mothers. We meet twice a month with an additional social night. We work hard each week to share encouragement, knowledge, fun and Jesus with these mothers. These mothers are a blessing and I pray that I can be one to them.

I'm Now a Mother of 3

We brought Trixie home on 9-17-2022

I passionately and sternly without hesitation have killed Ryan's life long dream of having a Labrador for 16 years (the length of our relationship). I really wanted to soften my heart to his wants as he supports every single one of mine. So we added puppy Trixie to our home. As sweet as she is it has been very challenging for me and a big lesson in selfless love. Bunny Ethel & Trixie were quick friends and both bring joy to Vivian and Ryan. Their joy brings me joy :)

Ethel turned 1 in June

I have a Mini Travel Companion

Most of my travel is with my gal pals, Ryan or as a family. After taking Vivian on a girls trip to the beach just us two in '21 I decided I wanted to do more. I took Vivian on a few trips which included her first boat ride, hotel stay and immeasurable fun! She is a fantastic travel companion. I have already booked more for this Summer. 

I Have Extended Hours

With the start of school this Fall Vivian decided that she wanted to skip her afternoon naps. This was horrific to me! She's been the BEST sleeper her entire life with 12 hour night sleeps and 2+ hour naps every single day of her life. It was a gradual decline and she still has independent quiet time. It was a big adjustment for me but one that's ended up being enjoyable. She has afternoon activities that are now easier to attend and she's a respectful sidekick while I work or tackle my to-do's.

I've Established Traditions

Vivian loves going out! Both Ryan and I started including her on one on one dates and as a family. I also have taken her on outings with my friends. It makes her feel fancy and special so we've incorporated dates with her each week. But our favorite weekly tradition is on Friday nights with a movie and pizza. She looks forward to it all week long. She often builds forts for us to snuggle in but most often we chose our big bed. I love the tradition and special time together.

I'm a Little More Hands Free

Vivian has become more and more independent and it's bittersweet for me. There's a lot of things she's capable of doing that I still hold on to and do for her. It makes me feel so needed. It's hard to let go of my baby but exciting to see her bravely become a big girl. 

I Sit Still (A Little)

I've been more intentional in sitting still in the Word, preferably outside enjoying the sun and bird songs. I'm a Type A, Enneagram 1, control freak that slowing down doesn't come easy to but I'm doing my best to dedicate time to stillness so that I can fill my heart with His will for me each day. 

Being Vivian Louise's mother is a privilege and honor that I thank God for each and every day. I pray that I look to Him for guidance, strength, patience and mercy as I raise her each and every year.

Dress Beautifully in Motherhood

XOXO Sarah Louise

Bargain Beauty

 Pretty, practical and at a price that can't be beat, well that's how Walmart is winning in fashion! 

A garment can be lovely but if it isn't wearable or fit in your budget it isn't a good fit. Being stylish isn't about having designer pieces it's about what you do with clothing, like accessorizing and unique pairings that make it you and let your personality shine.

I'm going to be honest gals, Walmart has become my top place to go to for pretty, practical pieces at a price that can't be beat.

Tip: Mix them with jewelry and accessories like a handbag or shoes that are more high end to elevate your bargain beauty look!

This pink skirt in a soft cotton is cool, comfortable and practical (Mamma life). The straight line silhouette and tie belt is flattering. I feel it unnecessary to tell you how pretty pink makes, well, everything and every one! It pairs beautifully with all other colors so picking a top won't be a challenge.

I paired this skirt with a white tee with printed ruffled shoulders for a pop of print.  I added nice jewelry for shine and designer orange sandals to add more color.

Ryan snapped these photos in the gusty beach winds (bless his heart) but despite his discomfort he did compliment my outfit. When I told him my skirt was Walmart he was in disbelief.  

My Skirt | Top | Sandals 

My favorite brands from Walmart are Free Assembly - Scoop 

I've recently purchased this top & this cardigan 

Gracious, I wish I could turn back time and be back on the beach!

Dress Beautifully in Bargains

XOXO Sarah Louise

Spring Break 2022

Gals it's Spring Break for us ... actually for Vivian, my daily responsibilities and job will continue this week #nofair. We aren't traveling but that's not necessary for a week well spent.  I am going to take this week to incorporate more rest, fun and quality time. It may not seem grand, but I'm confident the memories made will be priceless. 

Planning on time spent with this new book in this spot!

hopefully uninterrupted :)

When I say rest, I don't mean nap (I've never been able to do that #nochill) What I mean is to take breaks from the chores, technology and people to be in the quiet, preferably outside, allowing myself to slow down. I believe it's important to pause to recharge from our full lives. 

For fun, I want to play longer games, make believe, special crafts, outings and maybe even something messy.  I want to share lots of laughter and make lots of joyful memories throughout the day with my darling.

Most importantly, I want to be present. I want to be intentional with this precious week that Vivian is home. I want to look at her and listen without distractions or hurry. We only get each day once and I certainly don't want to waste it. 

I still have to keep our home tidy and running as well as give time to my job but I can turn away from what isn't essential for a break! 

Dress Beautifully By Taking a Break

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Your Best for Success

I don’t know of a time where I haven’t felt the pressure of ‘success'. From getting good grades in school, performing in my career and even in relationships. 

I’m a Type A (& Enneagram 1 for further explanation) driven person that is constantly striving for the best in everything I do.  I was chatting with my oldest and dearest friend on Friday and she pointed out that I (and Ryan too) am so intense and always doing things above and beyond.  We both laughed at this truth!! 

There are so many measurements in this world: salaries, square footage, dress size, milage pace, rsvp’s and oh the ‘likes’ (hiding that count on IG is my most favorite feature). They are all quantifiers we easily use to define us. 

But when I die (y’all know now that I have my funeral planned out - if not go read this fun fact post about myself) I hope to goodness my family and friends don’t remember me for my resume, assets, waistline, running speed, party size or social media popularity!

I’m not saying your work, investments, fitness, friends or platforms are bad.  In fact, they are all super important to me because those are the avenues in which I serve and encourage others. 

However prevalent these are in our world I do not want to be defined by them. This was solidified in me after Vivian was born and I chose to be out of the office. It’s amazing the perspective you gain from loving others & following God's plan and purpose. I’m back at work in a very different capacity now but want to continue to grow with a mindset of living for Him not the world.

Here’s what I’m going to do for the success I do want to have …

MY BEST

My Mamma said this is all she ever wanted from me.  

I’m not called to perfection.

Keep trying - never ever give up. Continue to grow and learn.

Dress Beautifully in Your Best

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Pearls of Wisdom

 My Mamma taught me a lot growing up and by the grace of God she's still here teaching me.

A lot of her advise starts with “My Mamma always said". My Grandma lived a lot of life and had many pearls of wisdom to share that I hope to pass down to Vivian Louise from these generations of strong women.

Fun Fact: My Great Grandma, Grandma, Mother, myself and Vivian are ALL first borns, all with the middle name Louise... hence my double name.

I want to document these so that I can remember them, and pass them on in hopes they encourage others.

Here are Pearls of Wisdom from the Matriarchs of my Family:

Pretty Is As Pretty Does ... true beauty starts with your heart! 

Respect your home … Regardless of where you live care for it, make it the best you can with what you have and keep it tidy. Cleanliness is next to godliness 

Our home with a dusting of snow - a very rare occurrence

Be Healthy - exercise, eat your vegetables, wear sunscreen, wash your face and floss your teeth.  My Mamma is a nurse and taking care of your body is essential. But we never ever went to see the doctor unless it was absolutely dire. I'm still that way.  Ryan has to nag me to go.

It Won't Hurt You ... It’s also good to eat the cake, skip the chores, get dirty, or put your feet up. Being first borns we are  type A do-it-all kind of gals, but the ones before us look back and see the importance of stopping to enjoy!

Always have cash money - You never know what could happen in life and you should have some cash money tucked away in your wallet.  Mamma gives a little to Vivian for her piggy bank each time we visit. 

Sit Up Straight or You'll Stick ... My Grandma wouldn't let us sit slouched and scared us into thinking we'd stick into an awkward position.

Use the Good Stuff ... Dukes mayo, Coke, Breyers Vanilla Bean Ice Cream, Heinz ketchup, 409 & Tide … if you show up requesting any other competitive brand, well, bless your heart. Here’s a glass of sweet tea (with real sugar).

Go Outside ... being in God's creation, appreciating nature is the best medicine for life. 

Don't Air Out Your Dirty Laundry ... I come from intensely private women and I keep quiet about most things.  It is not ladylike nor appropriate to disclose unnecessarily.  Never ever discuss money, your marriage or your personal struggles in public. And when you do share be very very selective choosing a very trustworthy confidant.  

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff ... think of life's hiccups as happy accidents and move on. 

Go to Church - every. single. Sunday! Tithe right off the top, give thanks for your many blessings and worship Him with your whole heart.

Church Clothes - and when you do, you'll be in your Sunday best. Since I was a little girl, and even now my Sunday outfit is selected no later than Saturday.  Mamma made sure we had pretty white cardigan sweaters & lace socks when we were girls and now I do the same with Vivian. 

Say I Love You … over and over and over and over. With a hug and a kiss. 

My Mamma and her Mamma have shared a lot of wisdom that I will cherish and carry on to my darling.

Dress Beautifully Walking in Wisdom

XOXO Sarah-Louise