Peridot Skies: Friends

Forever Fierce

February 19, 2018

Happy Monday lovelies!! It is a great day! I am so excited to be sharing with you not only my idea of what I think it means to be fierce in midlife, but the ideas of a few thousand other ladies as well! Yes, you read that correctly. Today is Forever Fierce Day and I have collaborated with 50 other bloggers; who just happen to be fierce sisters! We all have asked a few friends, neighbors, and even family members to share what they think. Read all of their stories here #Foreverfierce. Is midlife the wrong side of 40? I don't think so, actually I know it's not! So I am asking you today too... what does being fierce in midlife mean to you?

Below are the things I have discovered in midlife:

I let go of the drama that people surround themselves with. I embrace the changes in my body and still rock a bikini. Gravity is inevitable, but self esteem and pride in your life is priceless.

Skincare has always been important to me and I continue to take good care of my skin. Adapting to the changes has just meant adding a few new items!

Wisdom is grand; with age comes the knowledge that it is sometimes better to observe rather than speak. Changing my diet has been a huge benefit! I eat more fruits and vegetables and have cut out processed food. About 6 years ago I switched up totally and became mostly vegetarian. (With the exception of sushi of course). So technically it's called pescaterian.

Happiness is something that you are; a state of mind. I have been called brave for my journey and I'll take that with my head high! I was brave, still am actually. If you read my post, Life Begins at the end of your Comfort Zone then you will see that I may have been down, but I am now back up and empowered! My passion burns brighter than my fear and I am full of drive and motivation and I won't get in my own way. Change is always on the horizon and I choose to grow with it. I will reach again for what is in me. I will fiercely forge a new path and set out on it - boldly, while making no excuses.

So, tell me...what does fierce in midlife mean to you? Click here to join the movement!

February 19, 2018
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Stylish Women over 50

December 01, 2015

bags

I recently read a great article by Who What Wear on older woman and fashion (you can read it here) and it got me thinking. . . so I decided to share a few facts and misconceptions about style and age.

"Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak." Rachel Zoe

Confidence is sexy as hell. Yup, that's right. A confident woman isn't into game playing or needing a man to pay attention to her to have fun. She will pick up her own bar tab and might even refuse to let you get hers. Why? Confidence. She will walk into a room smiling and full of energy; she will have great posture and will walk with intent. Often, 20 something gals will often walk in somewhat sheepishly with eyes searching for someone they know. I would tell her to "fake it till ya make it, sista"! Confidence comes from within and by the time you are in your 40's you have had enough life experiences and lessons to walk the walk! What else happens with a confident woman? You will be hit on by every Tom, Dick, and Harry. That's right girls.... the men are attracted to your beauty more in your late 30's to 50's then they ever were in your 20's.

Eye Cream is a Must. If I have said it once here, I have said it a thousand times..... you are never too young to wear eye cream. Trust me on this and go get yourself some. Your 40 something self will thank you.

The Twisted Road of Life. You plan and you plan..... but inevitably, life happens. There will be happy moments and unforeseen tragedies that will mess up the plan you have. Stop trying to plan out your whole life. You have heard the mile marker goals many times.... when to buy a house, start a family, move away, etc. Whatever is in your plan, throw it out the window and start enjoying life. Focus on the here and the now. The journey is the true reward, not the plan.

Life Long Friends. I remember meeting so many new people when I was in my 20's – new friends were everywhere. As you grow older, you realize you really didn't have anything in common with those people other than killing time together. Then, you realize something even more profound, having a wide circle of friends isn't near as important or meaningful as having a small, close knit circle of friends. Now, I'm not saying go out and dump everyone you know who isn't a close friend. Those people are acquaintances and they play an important role in your circle too. Trust your instincts and put effort and faith into the people who are worth having deep, meaningful friendships with beyond the surface; people that you can go months without speaking to or seeing and pick right back up with where you left off. These relationships do exist, cherish them.

Buy Quality. Whether we are talking household items or wardrobe items, this one is important. If you want to be a grown-up then you gotta play the part. It's easy to pick up items at Target and Ikea and trust me, we love them. But there comes a time you need to truly be patient and save; invest in quality. Mismatched, hand me down furniture has a time and place and generally it's college or your first apartment. It’s great to outfit your closet and home with trendy and chic items, but it they are "cheap stuff" you will regret it in about two years if not sooner. Pressed board, particle board, and veneers are all euphemisms for "It's not real wood.” Bottom line here..... buy right, buy once. Quality over quantity and it will last a lifetime.

You have a voice... know when to use it. You have seen people that speak their mind and have, ultimately, tripped over their own words. Having a voice and not having a filter are close cousins but not the same. Speak up for what you think and believe in regardless of others’ opinions but do have a filter when it comes to how you say it and to whom you say it. People deserve to see and hear the real you. Scary? Yes. Iinvigorating? Yes. Don't fake it till ya make it when it comes to your voice and don't try to be someone else. That just plain sucks. Be heard for who you are!

If only I could go back in time and talk to my 20 something year old self. What life lessons would you tell your 20 year old self? Are my life lessons the same as yours? Leave a comment and let me know.

December 01, 2015
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For Your Best Friend

November 16, 2015

bags

Can you believe the holiday season is upon us? Yesterday I joked when Joe asked what I had planned for the day that I was putting the tree up for Christmas! Ha, he didn't find that overly funny, but was a bit nervous I could have been serious! Traditionally I never decorate for Christmas before Thanksgiving. I do however start my shopping. When the boys were little I would have 90% off my shopping done before September ended. As the years have passed and the boys grown I have not been as good with this goal. So I hope my gift guides are helpful for you as they are for me! First up with my gift guides is the best friend. That person who is your ride or die friend. This is for her!

Crown Ring Holder / Thelma & Louise Glasses / Bling Pouch / Nest Fragrance / Phone Charger / Jo Malone Body Wash / Letter Light / Regent Ring Quad / Monogram Key Chain / Laura Mercier Souffle Cream set / Slip Silk Pillowcase / Madison Cross body

November 16, 2015
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The Big Launch Party

August 18, 2015

Beauty

I know I have hardly talked about my venture and my co founders, but the day has arrive! We have been working for over 6 months on this day and can I tell ya? ..... It feels so good! Formally know as The Kansas City Blogger Meetup, we knew we had outgrown the name. It was time for a fresh look and a new approach to gathering bloggers together. The Blog Guild is the brain child of Emily, myself and Erin. We wanted to define what it was we loved so much about meeting up with other bloggers and share with our fabulous community we have here in KC. The three key elements for all three of us was to Create a community for bloggers who can Connect with other like minded gals who share a similar passion. We know that building a relationship with companies is what it takes to make a great Collaboration that is mutually beneficial for both the brand and the blogger. I would love for you to take a peek and click around, check out our resources page, and if you are local.... well by all means send us your info so we can add you to the membership! Do you have a bloggers group where you live? Don't fret if not..... we have you covered as well; shoot us an email and we will set up a meeting to share with you how you can bring The Blog Guild to your city!

Here is just a small peek at the evening. I am sure I will have plenty more to share soon!

Kendra Scott Jewelry opened a new store locally here and so graciously hosted our launch party. Can you say jewelry, shopping discount, sips and snacks? Yup, it was a grand evening. We had photo props, a braid bar courtesy of Parlor Blowdry Beauty Bar and gave away a bunch of Kendra Scott Jewelry to a few lucky bloggers in attendance. I have my eye on these earrings and this necklace!

Thanks for following along and I can't wait to see where I go from here! I know one thing, It's time to start sharing my fall outfits. Can you believe it?

August 18, 2015
2 Comments

Red White and Blue

May 28, 2015

Celebration

It's time to start think about those stars and stripes. Trust me... if you wait until the 4th of July to grab yours, you will be too late! I have my eye on several items. Old Navy is on point with their summer collection for sure and everything here is Old Navy! What are you liking here? Are you a stars... or stripes girl?

Denim Shift Dress ~ Star print chambray dress ~ Romper ~ White Tunic ~ Stars tank ~ Stars sweater ~ Flag pattern sweater ~ Stripe Maxi ~ Stripe linen dress ~ Flip flops ~ Espadrilles ~ Stars and stripes scarf ~

Shop this post below!

May 28, 2015
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Hotel Sorella Event

May 22, 2015

Celebration

What do you get when you put a group of bloggers together on a gorgeous pool deck and colorful bar? The KC Blogger Meetup Spring meet up of course! Tuesday we held a happy hour meet up hosted by the gorgeous Hotel Sorella. It was nice catching up with friends, and meeting new members. There were fabulous giveaways including dinners, brunches, and one lucky gal won an overnight stay at the hotel! Here is a glimpse of the fun the evening held! Thanks Hotel Sorella for a fabulous spot to mingle and munch!

What would an event be without a little selfie stick action too!

Happy Memorial day weekend! Have a safe and happy time!

May 22, 2015
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8 Days

March 16, 2015

Friends

Hi..... It's me! I've been missing for days now. But I really wasn't gone, just down. Yes down. Down with pneumonia. You never plan to be sick, or pencil in a week of missing everything... it just happens.

Day one I thought "oh great, a cold"..... then day two, the chills and the aches start and I began to think even worse the flu. By the morning of day three I actually..... yes if you know me you know I contemplated it.... going to work. But by the time I was out of the shower my fever was back and holding strong. Off to the doctor I went thinking there is nothing you can do for the flu but wait it out. Once there it wasn't long before I was having a breathing treatment and in for chest X-rays. Pneumonia. I don't have a phone dump of pretty pics of my past week, or pics from the most gorgeous week's worth of weather we have had this year. But what I do have is a rekindled appreciation for being healthy and enjoying even the smallest of moments and victories. I have the best friends who snuck to my door and dropped off a care package only to text me a picture of them leaving the scene of the drop to let me know it was there. They know my love for sweets runs deep!

I have tons of photos from the weeks prior to becoming sick waiting to be edited, and a few collaborations I am still working on. Insert excitement!! So be patient with me this week, I am still low on energy and have a long to do list of catching up and I can only imagine the amount of emails waiting! Missed you all! xo

March 16, 2015
2 Comments

Ice Cream Party

February 24, 2015

Birthdays

Whether you are hosting an ice cream party, or need a fun gift, this basket is full of everything you could possibly need for an Ice Cream social. Start by picking up a basket at your local Home goods, or of course Target! Maybe you even have one laying around. You don't necessarily even need to use a basket. A colorful plastic tub, or wire basket will work too. Most everything in the basket can be picked up at Super Target too.

Shopping list:

A single box sleeve of Oreos
Sugar Cones
Waffle Bowls
Caramel Sauce
Chocolate/Fudge sauce
Maraschino Cherries
Sprinkles
Chocolate Chips
Peanuts
Ice Cream Scoop
Ice cream cups

Candies:

Reeses Peanut butter cups
Malted Milk balls (Whoppers)
M&M's
Gummy Bears

Fill the bottom of the basket with scrunched up tissue to add a little padding and height to the smaller items. Start at the back of the basket with the larger boxes and your ice cream cups and work your way forward. Once you have the larger items in place add the jars of caramel, fudge sauce, sprinkles and cherries. In cellophane gift bags, place a good amount of candy to be used for the toppings in them and tie them up with a colorful ribbon. Do the same with your peanuts and chocolate chips. Start tucking the bags of candies and toppings in the basket around the larger items and jars. Split the cups into two stacks and place one in each front corner. Tuck the scoop in you're done.

This makes a great gift for a pool party, slumber party or how about your block party or holiday Bar-B-Que. Where ever you decide to take it... rest assured it will be a big hit! just don't forget the Ice Cream!!

Scoop yourself up some fun and Enjoy!

February 24, 2015
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Fresh Flowers

February 18, 2015

Colors

Last weekend in Kansas City we had phenomenal weather, and I was fortunate enough to spent my afternoon enjoying it down in the River Market. The River Market event space with its wide open garage doors lend itself for the perfect venue for an afternoon with friends and flowers.

Emily, a fellow KC Blogger Meetup board member is also a talented floral designer amongst other things. The Bloom Academy - an online floral course - is her latest venture. She offers in addition to her online portion local workshops throughout the year. Gosh I am glad I am local! Take a peek at the afternoon of friends and flowers.

The afternoon was spent with beautiful flowers and beautiful friends. We mingled and enjoyed sweet bites and beverages. Emily then spent the first portion of the class giving instructions, tips, and tricks to beautiful arrangements.

And then..... she let us loose. I thought I was pretty good at floral arranging.... but I learned so much more then I ever expected and am so glad I attended and plan on going to more of her workshops.

You seriously should look into her next class, or sign up to become a member and you receive exclusive details to making your home blossom!

We received individual time with Emily to answer any questions we may have and to offer any pointers to the arrangements we were creating! Here is my arrangement. I'm pretty darn pleased.

I'm excited to make my next arrangement with all my new tips I learned.

February 18, 2015
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Chatbooks

January 06, 2015

Birthdays

The greatest app I have recently found!! Chatbooks! Do you ever wish you could somehow take all those pics from your phone and share them without handing over your phone? Or what about sharing those same pics with a grandparent or family member that lives farther away? I know your phones are probably loaded up right now with holiday and New Years pics. Chatbooks can help you out! With several options for your book, you can choose what pictures you want to share and Chatbooks does the rest. I decided to take all the pics of my youngest grandson and create a book. I had pictures of his first moments of his life and the first time my son held him. He was the first to hold him, a moment that I knew needed to be preserved.

Chatbooks is a company that prints your Instagram posts into beautiful 60 page books. Each book is only $6. You can just print a few or you or go nuts and print your entire Instagram feed. I have 18 glorious months wrapped up in perfect-bound book forever. It is a tiny, treasured time capsule showcasing how much I love this little fella. Here is the good news... Download the app (it's free) and start creating your books.

January 06, 2015
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KC Blogger Meet Up Fall Workshop

September 12, 2014

Decorating

If you are a Kansas City bloggers then this is for you! The first ever KC Blogger Meetup workshop is coming up and there are only a few tickets left!! It's about ways we can all beautify our blog. Learn from our inspirational speakers - blog design, structuring your post, and photography styling, taking and posing.

With only a few remaining spots left you will want to sign up soon. No event would be complete without awesome swag bags (Valued more than the ticket price), awesome giveaways, and an inspirational speaker from a local brand you will know and love!

You can read more about it & purchase a ticket right here:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/beautify-your-blog-tickets-12778104655

Let me know if you have any questions and if you have suggestions on topics... we would love to hear them also! We hope to have more workshops on various topics coming up and look forward to seeing you there!

Purchase your ticket here.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/beautify-your-blog-tickets-12778104655

September 12, 2014
0 Comments

Celebrating

August 07, 2014

Beauty

What a month this has been so far. If you have by some chance missed the fact that this is my birthday month... let me catch you up today!!!! My birthday was this past Sunday and I turned 50! The celebrating started the day before on Saturday with a facial at Nordstrom with Smashbox cosmetics. Shanna the makeup artist, did a fabulous job on my makeup and I now have a drawer full of Smashbox cosmetics too! I will share what I got later.

There has been flowers, balloons, streamers, presents, cocktails, cake... and more cake... more presents and so much love and well wishes. I feel loved to the core. I am grateful for all the warm wishes and festivities everyone has taken part in so far and I thank all of you and you really do mean so much to me. So here is a little recap of what has happened in the first week so far of the month! Starting in the top left corner... Shanna, Michelle and I in Nordstrom at the Smashbox counter, One of my presents from Joe... that man has made this a birthday to remember for sure.... a few of my gifts from the girls at the office, I was surprised when I opened my office Tuesday to this, we celebrated with sangria's on the Country club Plaza, cake... and more cake, and flowers for my home.

The best birthday ever...!

August 07, 2014
3 Comments

Sheer Blue

July 17, 2014

Bracelets

I mentioned last week that my best girl was back in town. She took these pictures for me as we headed out for dinner on the plaza. We had a wonderful long weekend catching up and just enjoying some girl time. I cannot believe summer is half way over too! I mentioned last year several times that I really wanted to add more color to my wardrobe.... and particularly the color blue. Do you ever just look at your closet and feel it's missing a spectrum of the rainbow? The good news is... I now find myself shopping for blues and greens, with pink always an option!

What I want to point out is this blouse is my first purchase from H&M. I have mentioned before that I always felt like it was geared for much younger girls, and cut for them too. Gayle talked me into giving them another try and I am glad I did. We found this perfect longer blouse for wearing with legging. I love that the shoulders are a full cut too so a strapless bra isn't necessary. I layer my blouse over a lace bandeau, threw on my favorite wedges and it was a comfy outfit for a girls dinner, and for running around it's perfect with flats too. I picked up several pieces form H&M and love them all. I'm so glad I gave them another chance. Now that's not to say I will always be this lucky there, but I will keep it as an option for sure! Do you have a store that you pass on? Maybe you should give them another look.... I'm glad I did!

Blouse (Options, options) ~ Shoes (Exact, These are great too) Leggings ~ Chain bracelet c/o ~ Loren Hope Bracelet ( exact, love this one) ~ Dainty blue bracelet c/o ~ Monogram necklace (Exact, Options here, and here) ~ Single initial necklace c/o (options here, and here) ~ Polish

July 17, 2014
2 Comments

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