Noonday Adoption Fundraiser + GIVEAWAY!

 image from MERCY iNK

Confession: I love the look of jewelry, but hardly wear it myself.

I don't know if it's my lifestyle (hello sweats!) or my lack of confidence wearing it, but jewelry just sits on my dresser, unworn & unloved. That is, until I was introduced to Noonday Collection. Since September, I have added several new pieces to my collection and now find myself reaching for these pieces whenever I get dressed & feeling more self-assured, as well.

wearing the Rachel Necklace + Tangled Beads Bracelet at The Influence Conference

If you haven't heard of Noonday before, their purpose statement says it all:

We partner with talented artisan entrepreneurs to make a difference in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. By developing artisan businesses through fair trade, we empower them to grow sustainably and to create dignified jobs for people who need them. Together we’re building a flourishing world where children are cherished, women are empowered, people have jobs and we are connected.

And on top of that, this company has a huge heart for those who have been called to adopt. Like my friends, Matt + Keri Nikkel.

So when my friend, Hannah, became an ambassador and we began hearing more about Noonday, I immediately knew I would like to host a trunk show for the Nikkels. If there is anything I've learned through observing their process, it's that adoption isn't for the faint at heart and with it comes it's own set of challenges & celebrations. But if I could help in even the smallest way, I wanted to do so. 

Enter: my Noonday for Baby Nikkel trunk show

With every purchase made through this trunk show, 10% of the sales will go directly toward the Nikkel’s qualifying adoption expenses to help bring home their precious child. And trust me when I say this child is already SO loved!

In addition, as a thank you to those who make a purchase through this trunk show, I am also giving away some "vintage Noonday" - the Diamond Drop Earrings.

 photo by Hannah Zirschky

These earrings are made of hand-cast brass beads with a luminous turquoise glass bead on the end of each & are made with love in India (another place close to my heart). And as of this week, they are sold out!


How do you enter?

Simply place an order through this link: ((http://bit.ly/MeaghanGrable)) and add desired accessories to your basket. Upon checkout (very last page of process), you will be prompted to type in a Trunk Show name. Please type my name, Meaghan Grable, in the box. 

That’s it! 

When my trunk show closes next Friday, November 20, I will randomly select a winner from those who placed an order and contact them directly.


Disclosure: I was not paid for this giveaway or this fundraiser.

Stitch Fix (Lucky) #15

Market & Spruce Girona Eyelet Detail Top detail

This fix was magical!

For two years now, I've been receiving curated boxes from Stitch Fix and this one was the first that I ended up keeping ALL! FIVE! ITEMS! (and thankfully it wasn't too expensive thanks to credits & the 'buy all 5' discount)

Stitch Fix may be for you, if...
1. you don't like shopping for yourself OR
2. you are looking for items you might not pick out for yourself

I don't know about you, but my favorite part about Stitch Fix is how easy it is --- delivered right to your door, you get to try it on with the clothes you already own, and shipping back is as simple as it comes.

Have you tried Stitch Fix yet? Share your tips in the comments section below.
 

And now to a breakdown of the pieces I received in fix #15:

[left] Market & Spruce Girona Eyelet Detail Top + Papermoon Remmie Printed Maxi Skirt

[right] Liverpool Paley Lace Printed Denim Short

 

[left] THML Kahlo Knit Top

[right] Street Level Morris Braided Handle Tote

I was not compensated for my thoughts, but I have included a referral link in case you would like to try Stitch Fix yourself

Review: How To Raise An Adult

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content 

and opinions expressed here are all my own.
 

When I first heard about "How To Raise An Adult" by Julie Lythcott-Haims, I thought it might be a light-hearted poke at the world of parenting, but as I read through this book, I quickly realized the truth behind the title and was highlighting lines on page after page.

First, I believe this book would be beneficial for all parents, no matter what stage they're in. As a newer parent, a lot of the topics didn't apply for where we are at currently, but this book did make me stop and mentally note a lot of the topics for future reference. 

With Calvin being just over a year old, he's not voicing his hopes & dreams or playing in the front yard alone or coming in contact with strangers, but I know those days are coming, so it was nice to read the authors thoughts and questions to ask ourselves.

"When we're tempted to let our presence be what protects [our children], we need to ask, To what end? How do we prevent and protect while teaching kids the skills they need? How do we teach them to do it on their own?"

And instead of leaving parents defeated and beating themselves up because we're not the perfect parent, Julie Lythcott-Haims gives grace and notes that while we're all human there is, what she calls, "another way" or cultivating an authoritative parenting style.  Simply put, Lythcott-Haims says:

"But by cutting ourselves some slack, widening our definition of success, and focusing on how to unconditionally love our kids and ourselves, we can, in fact, get it right."

 Who wouldn't want this, right?

As I mentioned above, when I finished this book, you could find highlighted sections throughout.  Some were so I could remember what NOT to do and others were simply ideas or tips of how to parent better. Ultimately, this book left me feeling less alone as I stumble my way through this [tough] job I've been given.

For more tips, check out the video below from the author:

Stitch Fix #13

With a dozen Stitch Fixes under my belt, I can still say with confidence that I LOVE this service! Sure, I only keep 1-2 items from each of my boxes, but that's a win in by book. Especially when the item isn't one I would have picked up in the store.

Before I get into what I received, here are a few tips that will hopefully improve your future fixes:

*Update your style profile regularly - measurements, styles, fabric, etc. - The more you share, the better your fixes may be.

*If you've received a fix you like, consider requesting the same stylist again.

*Don't expect to like all five items - I've heard it's not their intention to have you love all five items every time.

Now, let's take a look at my latest Stitch Fix:

[left] THML Heflin Knit Tank, [right] Skies are Blue Stallia Slub Cardigan + Level 99 Cayden Skinny Jean

[left] Honey Punch Stinson Tab-Sleeve Top + Level 99 Cayden Skinny Jean, [right] Le Lis Sonny Crew Neck Knit Top

Just as I mentioned above, I've requested the same stylist for the last few fixes and I feel like this has resulted in her knowing my style better with each box. This time, I asked my stylist for a new pair of skinny jeans & that she send some comfier items since I'm at home with Calvin, instead of in the workplace. Overall, that's exactly what this fix was. The skinny jeans were really cute, but the fit was kind of off, which was a bummer. I loved trying on each of the tops, since they weren't any that I would have picked up on my own, but due to fit or material, I only ended up keeping the THML Heflin knit tank.

So, what do you think? Should I have kept something else? I'd love to hear what you think.

And if you haven't tried Stitch Fix - why not?

Peek-a-whoo Monogrammed Jellycat Bunnies {with discount code!}

*While I have been chosen as one of Peek-a-whoo's Brand Ambassadors, all thoughts are my own*

After saying goodbye to Charlotte just before Christmas in 2012, the holidays became something I dreaded. When I should have been excited because we'd be celebrating another "first", I longed for just another normal day.

But when we scheduled Calvin's birthday (thanks to a repeat c-section) and it fell a few days before Easter, I felt a little redemption. And because we missed out on all of Charlotte's first holidays, I made sure Calvin's very first holiday was done right.

Enter: Peek-a-whoo's monogrammed Jellycat bunnies!

 (Look how tiny he was! Cue the mama tears...)

Not only are these bunnies oh-so-soft, but the monogram detailing really completes this gift. With free monogramming on just about all their products, Peek-a-whoo certainly knows what they are doing. After deciding how you want to personalize your purchase, Peek-a-whoo takes just another typical gift and turns it into a keepsake for years to come!

Not only was this bunny the perfect addition to Calvin's first Easter basket, but it's safe to say, almost a year later, this bunny has become a staple in our home. And from experience, you can rest assured everything (the softness, the monogramming, etc.) will hold up through the wash, if it comes to that.

So, are you convinced you need a bunny for your little one's Easter basket this year? 

If so, then you're in luck! Peek-a-whoo is offering Grable Tales readers 10% off ALL Jellycat bunny sizes (regular, large, & huge!) with the code 'GRABLE15'. But hurry - this offer is only good until March 13, 2015.

Now the question is... what size/color are you going to choose?

Seeing the Importance of Vision Health

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Vold Vision. All opinions are 100% mine.




When I was younger, I wanted two things: 1. to be older and 2. glasses. In my mind, if I wore glasses then I would appear older, so I remember asking my mom to get my eyes checked as often as I could. Fast forward to high school and my dream finally came true. At an annual eye exam, my doctor realized I needed glasses for far away. At the time, I wasn't worried about the health of my eyes, just wearing glasses, but over the years my priorities have definitely changed. In addition to glasses, I also wear contacts and both remind me daily of the importance of eye care.





Whether someone needs vision correction once in a while or every day, taking care of your eyes should be a priority.  And Vold Vision, a Vision Care center out of Arkansas, wants you to think outside the typical "glasses and contacts" options by increasing awareness for laser vision correction.  With an after hours event featuring a live LASEK procedure, Q/A sessions, and up to $500 off LASEK surgery for attendees, Vold Vision wants to shed light on the benefits of this type of correction, while showing what one might expect at the same time.





For more information, check out Vold Vision for dates & times.

Stitch Fix #12

This fix was a good one for me.

One of the most valuable Stitch Fix tips I have come across is that when you find a stylist that you like, keep requesting them in the notes.  And for me, this happened a couple fixes ago and since then, I've continued to ask for Carrie (my stylist).

For this fix, I also requested a vest, some comfy sweaters, and neutral pieces to add to my closet.  This is what Carrie picked out for me:

[left] Market and Spruce Shara Houndstooth Printed Vest

[middle] Tart Jenny Scoop Neck Striped Knit Top

[right] Olive & Oak Dwane Colorblocked Knit Top

Loveappella Evie Draw String Funnel Neck Sweatshirt + Octavia Gilbert Houndstooth Knit Infinity Scarf

I loved how all of my requests were met and I seriously thought about keeping my entire fix for the first time... but then I didn't. The top three pieces were totally cute & netural, but either the fit and/or pattern didn't fit well on me/in my closet and ultimately were sent back.  However, the sweatshirt & scarf have both made quite a few appearances since I received them (thumbs up!).

Obviously, I can't say enough good things about Stitch Fix (see past reviews here).  If you don't particularly like shopping for yourself or are looking for unique pieces, then Stitch Fix may be for you. Sign up today & you can have your first fix delivered right to your door in no time!

Saving for an Emergency & Capital One 360's Black Friday Sale

During our first year of marriage, I distinctly remember my husband suggesting we start an account for unexpected expenses - an emergency fund - just in case something like a job loss or illness was in our future.  To be honest, I was skeptical.  Why did we need to put money away?  Surely we wouldn't find ourselves in any major financial trouble, right?

Wrong.

While neither of us have lost our jobs, we did have a death in our family that forced us to take some time away from work. It was very unexpected and our finances were the last thing on our mind, so at that moment I found myself very thankful for our emergency fund and the security it provided during our time of need.

And this holiday season, Capital One 360 wants to help you reach your goals of financial peace, whether that's starting an emergency fund, saving for college, or simply avoiding the "financial hangover" that usually arrives shortly after the holidays. With five helpful deals, Capital One 360's Black Friday Sale is designed to encourage consumers to keep their finances at the top of their mind, even while many have gifts, greetings and get-togethers on the brain.

In addition, Capital One 360 provides the following all year long:

• Remote deposit capture with Capital One 360's CheckMate tool;
• The Automatic Savings Plan, which makes saving a snap;
• And checking and savings accounts that are fee-free and earn interest.

So once all of your Thanksgiving celebrations are over, be sure to head over to Capital One 360 for Black Friday deals you can bank on, including new account bonuses, referral bonuses and closing cost credits.  Start building your financial peace of mind today because some day in the future it will all be worth it.


I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

Stitch Fix #11

Are you convinced I'm a Stitch Fix fan yet?

If you haven't signed up yet, do so HERE and follow these easy steps:

1. Fill out your style profile
2. Schedule your fix
3. Once your fix arrives, try on the items and decide what you're going to keep
4. Send everything you don't want back to Stitch Fix in their pre-paid bag

For this fix, I was stumped on which item(s) I should keep.  I wasn't initially drawn to anything in my box, but the more I tried them on, the more I liked them.  So I turned to my Instagram + Facebook friends and asked what they thought.

[clockwise from top left] 

Kut From The Kloth Larson Collared Knit Top

Evolution by Cyrus Abbot Crew Neck Elbow Patch Sweater

Desires Nero Hooded Long-Sleeve Sweater

Market and Spruce Corinna Striped Dolman Top

Liverpool Rizzo Pull-On Skinny Ponte Pant (pictured 1, 2, & 4)

Hands down, the Abbot Crew Neck Elbow Patch Sweater & Market and Spruce Corinna Striped Dolman Top were the favorites.  This ended up helping a lot because while I liked both, I felt like the striped dolman top was a much better addition to my closet and appreciated the feedback I received on it.

I've scheduled one last fix for the year and I've requested some cold weather items to help get me through the next few months.  And according to their calendar, there is still time to schedule your next fix. Whether you have a holiday party to attend or you're looking for something to keep you warm, sign up today and receive five items delivered right to your door! 

Have questions about Stitch Fix?  Let me know!  Don't forget: you can also purchase a Stitch Fix gift card for the fashion-ista on your gift list.

Stitch Fix number 10

Since hearing about Stitch Fix over a year ago, I can't help but share about it with those who have asked. If you've been living under a rock and haven't heard of Stitch Fix, here is what you need to know:

1. Sign up & fill out your style profile - a detailed questionnaire for your personal stylist.
2. Schedule your fix & wait (impatiently, if you're like me).
*When your fix ships, you'll be charged the $20 styling fee.
3. Once your fix arrives, try on the items in the comfort of your home with the rest of your clothes.
4. Decide what you're going to keep!
*If you decide to keep anything, the styling fee now becomes a credit.
*If you decide to keep everything, you'll also receive 25% off!
5. Send everything you don't want back to Stitch Fix in their pre-paid bag.

Easy right? I think so!


For my latest fix, I knew the Influence Conference would be right around the corner.  I requested conference appropriate items, that would still transition back into my current lifestyle (staying at home with Calvin), and specifically some dresses, since I felt like my closet was lacking in that area.  Here is what I received:

 

[left] Gilli Ellee Basketweave Dress + [right] Daniel Rainn Mandie Cut-Out Detail V-Neck Tank

[left] Gilli Dante Polka Dot Faux Wrap Dress + [right] Three Dots Nadhia Drop Waist Fitted Dress

 

[both] Margaret M Emer 'X' Print High Waisted Cropped Pant

Overall thoughts: the tank was cute, but too much money when I'd be wearing it around a slobbery baby; I liked both of the Gilli dresses, but ultimately felt like I wouldn't wear them much after the conference; the Three Dots dress felt wrong on all levels - style, fit, material, etc.; and the high waisted pants were a big surprise for me & were a keeper, especially after I hemmed them [right].

Interested in trying Stitch Fix?  Sign up here!

The Baby Companion: A Review and Giveaway!

When I was pregnant, I can't tell you how many books and websites I searched hoping to find the answers to all my questions regarding what to expect after my child was born.  However, more often than not, the answers I usually came across left me feeling uneasy and ultimately searching for more answers. Until I found The Baby Companion.

A follow up to the The Pregnancy Companion, The Baby Companion is "a faith-filled guide for your journey through baby's first year" and, in my opinion, one (essential) step above most how-to books available today.

While other baby books strive to give you the facts on any given topic (eating, sleeping, vaccinations, etc.), this one provides the basic developments & milestones one can expect from month-to-month, while also sharing real-life strategies, schedules, and lists for new moms. 

And my favorite part?  The biblical references and reminders that you are not alone, God is walking through this journey WITH you.

As I learn to navigate through motherhood, I can already tell you that this book has become a go-to resource. It has a prominent spot on my nightstand and with each new month, I turn to the corresponding chapter to see what I can expect from my growing baby boy, while still receiving gentle reminders to have grace on myself - something I wasn't able to find from other resources out there.

A big thank you to Jessica Wolstenholm (of Grace for Moms) and her team of doctors, Dr. Andrea Johnston and Dr. Heather Rupe, for writing a book that brings medicine + faith together in a way that a new mom can easily relate to.

Be sure to check out a sample chapter from The Pregnancy Companion here, as well as (free!) printables that correspond with The Baby Companion here.

AND as an added bonus, one lucky winner will get a copy of either The Pregnancy Companion OR The Baby Companion (your choice!).  It doesn't matter if you're expecting or not, this would be a great gift for any new mom or mom-to-be out there!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Contest is open to Canadian and US residents

Open from July 23, 2014 to July 30, 2014 PST

Disclousre: while I received a copy of The Baby Companion in exchange for my review, all opinions expressed above are my own.

Stitch Fix #7 (Postpartum Edition)

My latest Stitch Fix arrived just a couple weeks after Calvin. This was on purpose.

If you haven't heard of Stitch Fix, read more about it here.

Part of me was nervous to be trying on clothes mere days after giving birth, but I made sure to request items that would fit this current lifestyle of mine, which is one of my top tips when it comes to Stitch Fix because it's worked so well for myself through several fixes.

I knew bottoms were going to be trouble and needed items that would transition well for feeding, so in the notes section I made sure to request open cardigans, button down shirts, and loose fitting tops and this fix delivered all three!

Besides being clear with what you want to receive, another tip I'd suggest when scheduling your next Stitch Fix is to continue to update your Pinterest style board.  In some cases, I've even heard of the stylists sending our exact items, if at all possible.  Since someone is attempting to style you without being able to talk to you in person, it's best to be as clear as you can be if you're looking for something specific. (i.e. dresses for a wedding this summer, work appropriate clothing, etc.)

I know that Stitch Fix isn't for everyone, but if you're like me and don't enjoy going to the mall and trying on clothes, then I'd suggest trying it out.  In almost every fix I've received (& kept!) items that I would have otherwise looked over in a store and yet, the items still work together with the rest of my closet.  A win-win in my book and something I'm willing to invest in.

Have you tried Stitch Fix?  If so, what did you think?


I was not compensated for this post, but have linked to my referral page throughout this post.

Teachers Really Do Change Lives!

Growing up, school was a given.  Something I went to every day for over twenty years without much question or objection.  I never dreaded it or fought to stay home, but I chalk that up to the passionate teachers I had from day one who made learning fun and new.

As I think back, I did find it hard to go from one grade to the next because I wasn't sure what teacher the following year would bring.  But in hindsight, I didn't have much to worry about as each year brought another driven teacher who's goals were the same as the last - to teach us and teach us well.

Just this year, my brother-in-law received his first teaching position and I've had a chance to see some behind-the-scenes work that goes into teaching.  It's been amazing to watch as he prepares his lessons and celebrates each of his students' progresses and successes, however big or small they may be.  The drive to help his students learn even the basics blows me away, yet it doesn't surprise me because I can clearly see the passion he has for what he does.  And Office Depot is seeing this same thing happening all over the country!

By teaming up with Adopt-A-Classroom, Office Depot has set out to find teachers across America who go above and beyond for their students day in and day out without asking for anything in return.  Their hope is to raise awareness about teachers and all that they do in the lives of their students.  It's not an easy job, but it's simple to see how teachers are changing the lives of their students every day.

Take a look at this video to see how these students' teachers have impacted their lives and inspired their future:



Testimonies like this video really give me hope for my children and their future education.  Every little thing makes a difference and teachers are really doing innovative things in the classroom to engage with students of all levels, so consider helping them by donating to their classroom or nominating them today!



I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

Daring Greatly

As you can imagine, our lives have changed a lot since Charlotte.  Actually, they changed even before we met her.  Occasionally, I find it easier to talk about what happened and share our story, but more times than not, I find myself worrying over what my words will do to others (make them sad, make them regret they ever asked, etc.) and I get scared to be honest.   To open up.  To be vulnerable.

Enter: Brené Brown’s Daring Greatly.
To be honest, I have been in sort of a slump when it comes to reading books for the last year or so.  

It wasn’t that I wasn't read anything, but lately I was finding myself drawn to shorter stories from real life people (i.e. blogs), instead of long novels or self-help books.  But after receiving strong encouragement to read this book before Calvin arrived, I finally made it a goal & dove in.  And I'm so thankful I did!

I wasn’t expecting this book to speak to me the way it did by any means, but while reading through each chapter, I constantly found myself saying, “me too!” or "oh, that's why that happens", especially when it came to relating to our loss of Charlotte.

Pretty early on in the book, as Brené is introducing her topic and explaining her story, all the doubts on whether this book would be applicable to me were washed away:
 

"Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren't always comfortable, but they're never weakness." (37)

And that's what hooked me.  After saying goodbye to Charlotte, I found myself wanting to talk about her all the time, but the fears of hurting someone or them not understanding seemed to outweigh all desire.  But what I have come to realize is that my story is just that – my story – and sharing it doesn’t make me weak.  It still isn't easy to answer the question, "do you have any kids?" or "is this your first?", but my answer is no longer overshadowed completely by fear.

Whether you're an extrovert or introvert, male or female, I really believe everyone can find something to relate to within this book.  From understanding the opposite sex to raising your children to giving grace to friends & strangers alike, Brené Brown does a great job explaining the importance of vulnerability and how we can use that to our benefit in everyday life.


If you've had a chance to read Daring Greatly, I'd love to hear what you thought and how the book spoke to you.  And to those who haven't read it yet, I'd strongly recommend adding this one to your reading list as soon as possible.


I was not compensated in any way for this review, but just felt called to share my thoughts.

Stitch Fix: Pregnant Edition #2

Last December, I requested a Stitch Fix when I was 20 weeks pregnant.  I wasn't sure what to expect, but hoped that I'd receive some items that would help carry me through the rest of my pregnancy.  Unfortunately, I only ended up keeping the scarf and just chalked it up to my body being in "transition" for the rest of the items.

After that fix, I didn't plan on scheduling another one until after the baby arrived, but to be honest, I couldn't stay away!  I had received some credits from referring others to Stitch Fix and they were beginning to burn a whole in my virtual pocket.

So I scheduled my next Fix and submitted a few requests that I hoped to see in my box - plaid, open sweaters, & a black scarf (all of which I received) - and waited to see what my stylist would pick out for me!

 Olson Cotton Open Draped Plaid Shirt by Ellison

I've been looking for a fitted, button down plaid shirt and knew that I wouldn't find one that I could button up over my growing bump, but had hoped that I would find one I could wear open now & button later.  My stylist sent this because they didn't have a button up version in my size and had hoped this would work instead, but I decided to continue looking for what I actually want instead of settling...

Sophia Chunky Knit Infinity Scarf by Paula Bianco

Another requested item - I wanted to love this scarf, but felt so overwhelmed when I put this on (see photo).  I just which it wasn't so chunky...

Jason Asymmetrical Zip Up Jacket by Kensie

I received an asymmetrical jacket in my last fix and found it too fitted and tight, especially over my growing bump (I couldn't even zip it up).  But this one was different.  The material was soft and I felt like it hung on my as it was intended, even if wasn't maternity.  Another plus - I see this working very nicely after the baby arrives.  Win, win!

 Addison Striped Knit Cardigan by 41Hawthorn

Another item I really wanted to like was this open cardigan.  However, I didn't like the material and didn't think it would hold up like other cardigans I have.  And at $48, I didn't see it as something I would wear enough of.

Corinna Striped Dolman Top by 41Hawthorn

To be honest, I didn't have high hopes for this top when I opened the box.  I've never been drawn to dolman tops and this one was no exception.  My last fix included a dolman top that was too big and this one felt too tight.  Regardless, this just isn't my style.

Based on my comments, you can probably guess what I ended up keeping (the jacket) and what I ended up sending back (everything else...), but I'm still happy I requested this fix.  I keep saying it, but the concept behind Stitch Fix is right up my alley.  As someone who doesn't enjoy shopping for clothes, I like that all I have to do is schedule a fix and someone else does the shopping for me.  So once again, I'll continue scheduling my fixes and referring those to what Stitch Fix can offer.

If you're interested, you can check out past reviews here, here, & here.

I was not compensated for this review. These words were all my own.

Farewell 2013

When 2013 began, I wasn't sure what the year would hold. We had just suffered a major loss and living day to day (sometimes hour to hour) was all I could handle. And my blogging certainly reflected what I was feeling and how little words I had to share:

January - I started the year writing down a few of my 2013 goals {that I actually accomplished}; I shared the gift we were given through Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep; began posting Friday bullets; and talked about Charlotte - one month after meeting her, never forgetting her, and the reminders of her all around me.

February - I continued posting Friday bullets {an easy way to get my thoughts out}; I shared a story my husband posted on Facebook about Charlotte & having hope; on what would have been C's two month birthday, I talked about anniversaries have helped me heel & meeting with the genetic counselor; and posted the video we shared at Charlotte's memorial.

March - I received {& blogged about} my first Stitch Fix and fell in love the company's concept; the month was filled Friday bullets/thoughts; I joined the Influence Network & attended my first classes; and I shared about a series about life after Charlotte.

April - after sharing about the desire to talk about life after Charlotte in March, I posted about the holidays, being a mother without a child, and questions I've received; I updated my blog with a new design & address; and I ran walked a 5k with my sister-in-law.

May - 2012 was the year of the photo-a-day and in May I shared the book that I made to compile all of my photos in one place; I saw Sara Bareillis again, up close & personal; I celebrated my first Mother's Day without Charlotte, which was bittersweet; and I ended the month visiting Austin & the Heater family.

June - another Stitch Fix box arrived and yet again I was exctied to see what my stylist picked out for me; due to an Influence Network prompt, I shared what home means to me; I couldn't believe six months had already passed since meeting & saying goodbye to Charlotte; and we celebrated our fifth wedding anniversary.

July - my Friday bullets transformed into '5 on Friday', where I shared five of my favorites from the week; I was offered a chance to review a Float Wrap from Printography; I featured five blogs that have helped me through the grieving process; and Sam & I got away for a peaceful weekend.

August - more & more 5 on Fridays {apparently that's the way I got myself to post throughout most of the year}; and Sam built me a headboard.

September - this is the month where my posting drastically slowed down... but not before I posted about my excitement about the Influence Conference & my 2013 scarfs swap.

October - I could barely find the words to describe my time at the Influence Conference {because it was amazing!}; and we finally announced our new addition coming in April.

November - after announcing my pregnancy, I reflected on how different this one feels in comparison to the one with Charlotte; and we found out we would be welcoming a baby boy {and announced it on Instagram}!

December - we honored Charlotte's first birthday; I reviewed Stitch Fix while being pregnant; and rounded out the year reflecting on one year after Charlotte.


As I reflect on the year behind us, I'm grateful God gave me hope, especially in the darker times.  And next year already holds a lot of hope, which I'm also thankful for, but what I am really hoping for in 2014 is that I find my online voice again. Between remembering our baby girl, preparing for our new little guy and continuing to be involved with the Influence Network, my mind is swirling with inspiration & posts; I just need to to take the time to write about it all, for you, my readers, and myself.

So until then... Happy New Year!

Printography Float Wrap {Review}

 

If you were to take a tour around my home, the common factor in each room would probably be the personal touch we've created using some of our favorite photos - both of family & friends and some of our favorite locations.  I'm always looking for a new way to share my favorite photos, so when Printography reached out to share their Float Wrap with me, I couldn't say yes fast enough!

As someone who's tried various company's canvas prints, Printography's Float Wrap instantly grabbed my attention because of it's light weight, padded feel, and the "floating" look that it creates as it hangs on the wall.  Not to mention it's something I've ever seen before!

Besides being a unique concept, the ordering process was as easy as they come.  After downloading the provided design tool, it was simple & straight forward to upload my chosen picture and edit until just right. Then with the click of a button, my completed wrap order was sent off to be created and about seven to ten business days later, a package was waiting on our doorstep.

With the completion of our new headboard {details to come}, I knew my new Float Wrap would complete the look I was going for. The ease of ordering, receiving, and hanging of my Float Wrap already has me dreaming of other areas I can update with new photo products.  If you're in the market for some a new way to display photos, be sure to check out what products Printography has to offer.



Disclousre: while I received a code for the Float Wrap in exchange for my review, all opinions expressed above are my own.

2012 Photo-A-Day Book

Remember that photo-a-day project I did last year?

Well I finally took all of the pictures and created a photo book.  Because this project carried me through some of the best + worst times of my life, I really wanted to commemorate the year-long project.

In the past, I have usually found myself at Shutterfly when I want to create anything photo related, but because all my photos were already all together on Instagram, I searched for a site that would pull directly from the source.

Enter: Keepsy.

For just $22.75 + shipping, I received a 7" x 5" photo book with 36 pages full of each month's prompt and all the respective photos.  I opted for more pictures on each page (since I had over 360 photos) and while most of the pages have anywhere from 13-16 photos, the color & clarity was still what I would have expected as if I had chosen fewer pictures on each page.

Before purchasing, I hadn't heard or read any reviews on the Keepsy products, but since their price was right, I thought "what do I have to lose?".  And thankfully, the book was just what I was looking for!

So if you're in the market for a photo book full of your latest Instagram photos, check out Keepsy.  And come back & let me know if you end up ordering from them - I'd love to hear what you think!


Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post, I just liked the product enough to share about it.  These views and opinions are purely my own.