Who knew the Nordstrom Anniversary sale also had home decor?! News to me so I thought I would share a few of my favorites. Don’t forget that the sale is still in full effect until next week before prices go back to normal! Get the rest of my Summer, Fall, shoes, and top picks under $100 here.
I have also teamed up with a bunch of my favorite bloggers to bring you a chance to win a $1350 Nordstrom giftcard. Details on how to enter will be listed on Monday’s blog post so do not forget to check back! Have a great weekend friends 🙂
I will be the first to say that I definitely don’t have everything figured out when it comes to having a work-life balance and I am still trying to get a handle on working 2 jobs. I guess you could say that I have always bitten off more than I can chew. I think that stems from a serious case of FOMO (fear of missing out). Yes that is a real thing, and yes I definitely suffer from this insane disease.
From taking a look at my Instagram or other social media, I probably look like I have my stuff together. (And if I don’t, feel free to continue letting myself think that I do). But in all actuality, most days I am teetering on the edge of insanity. My poor body no longer knows what sleep is. My full time job is not getting the 100% undivided attention that it deserves. Blog deadlines have come and gone. And to top it all off my social life is hanging by a thread. Let’s not even attempt to throw a boy into that mix because that would really make things come crashing down.
So to help myself try to gain a little more control and take back my work-life balance, I’ve tried to enforce a few rules. I am definitely failing on several of these accounts but slowly but surely I think they will be a good base to get to where I want and need to be. Not just for sanity’s sake, but for an overall health stand point.
Plan. Plan. Plan
My friends hate to be “penciled” in and I hate being the friend that never has time to hang out, so I’ve started purposely leaving days open in my ever-growing planner. Most of my weeks are scheduled 2-4 weeks in advance with blog events, happy hours, meeting new people, and anything else that pops up. Having so many things to do can be stressful at times, but planning it all out and making sure I specifically pencil in personal time on top of blog or work events is a must.
Practice Saying No
It is not in my DNA to turn anything down, especially something that sounds like a fun opportunity! I like to think of myself as a “yes girl” that is always up for anything and let’s not forget the FOMO problem. Well even super heroes need a break every once and a while to cool off and recharge the batteries. You cannot function at your prime if you are overrunning yourself or not penciling in down time.
Avoid Multitasking
I don’t care if you claim to be a pro multitasker, it’s not possible. Each area of your life deserves your undivided attention and if you want “balance” while still maintaining dedication to each area of your life, then give 100% to each area. I am the queen of trying to do 3 things at once and failing to get a single thing done. For some reason we have this idea in our head that we have to get everything done in as little time as possible so we try to do multiple things at once. I’ve quickly learned that this ends up stressing me out even more than if I had I just completed one task at a time. So when you are with friends or family put your phone down. When you are working, don’t tempt yourself to watch TV.
Eliminate Wasted Time
This is not to say don’t ever take time for yourself. This is more so a reminder that there are several things that we do throughout the day where we could have made better use of our time. Who else spends an ungodly amount of time on social media? I am the first to admit that it is the first thing I check in the morning and the last thing I check before bed. That’s probably at least an hour out of my day that I waste on social media that I could be doing something productive. Some things we don’t even realize we waste time on. For example maybe it is spending too much time getting ready in the morning, running errands in an inefficient manner, or pressing snooze one too many times.
Have Fun
This probably sounds like a no brainer but for us #girlbosses sometimes we need that reminder. I know I get so caught up in what I constantly need to be doing that I worry more about deadlines and to-do lists than what really matters in life. Somehow I easily forget what a night off with friends and laughter does for the soul. I don’t know about y’all but wine and girlfriends make for some pretty fun nights and always leave me refreshed (if i don’t go overboard with the wine that is) and inspired.
One of my favorite quotes reads “Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life”. I’ve been under this impression that if I can just get a grasp on 2 jobs, a social life, and dating that I will finally have everything figured out. Well after almost 9 months of having 2 jobs and a teetering social life, I can tell you that it is easier said than done. I am slowly but surely trying to live up to that saying though, even if I have to constantly remind myself to have fun every once and a while or that I have to turn down some events. I would love to hear how you do it all and any tips that you have for me! O and if you have any remedies for a serious case of FOMO I’d love to hear your suggestions on that one too!
A couple of months ago my family and I escaped to the most beautiful and colorful little town of Seaside, Florida. It was actually my second time to go to this little slice of heaven, but it was my family’s first and I loved getting to show them around one of my favorite places. I had not been in almost 10 years, but it was just as simple and beautiful as I remembered it. Growing up, my family would go to Florida almost every summer but with all of the sisters in college and in the working world, it had been far too long since we took a family vacation to the beach.
The pictures were scarce but the memories made were plentiful! When we weren’t lying around on the white sandy beaches, you could find us biking, playing board games, and exploring. My favorite thing about Seaside is how quaint and cute it is. From the beautiful beaches, to the pastel colored beach cottages, to the town square, to the best food I’ve ever eaten, Seaside has something to offer people of all ages. I can’t wait to go back and I hope you all get to experience Seaside at some point as well! If (and when) you do, here are my top recommendations on where to stay, where to eat, and what you must see while there!
Seaside is known for their pastel colored beach houses and I have got to say that my best recommendation if going with a big enough group, would be to rent a house. We used Trip Advisor to find our cottage for the week and could not have been more pleased. We stayed in Seagrove, which is a stone’s throw away from Seaside, and we were able to ride our bikes into town. Many houses will come with bikes and a golf cart to get around. Besides using the car to go get groceries and go to a couple of dinners, we lived car-free for the week! Having your own kitchen will also come in handy if you do not wish to eat out every meal.
The inner foodie in me could not have been more satisfied with every single meal that I ate in Seaside. True story: it’s hard to maintain that perfect beach bod with this many great food options at the beach! While I honestly don’t think you could go wrong with any place here, here are just a few of my favorites.
The food trucks– These are a Seaside staple and believe me you will want to try every one of them. These are great for a quick lunch or dinner and are located in the town center so it’s nice to sit outside and enjoy the sight seeing. My personal favorite is The Melt Down which is gourmet grilled cheeses made anyway you like. Need I say more? Others include shaved ice, BBQ, smoothies, Thai, and juices.
30A Cafe– O. my. goodness. This was probably our favorite dinner of the trip. And when I say probably I mean most definitely. The food was absolutely incredible and the service was even better. Except the banana beignets might top all of that. It really was a great experience all around and I highly recommend this place!
Great Southern Cafe– We quickly discovered that this was THE place in town to go and for good reason! The gouda grits and every-flavored mojitos were my 2 favorites but the entire menu looks amazing! I suggest going for breakfast or brunch to beat the crowds during the evening.
Donut Hut– You know sis loves her donuts so naturally we tried the only donut shop in town which just so happened to be across the street from us. Ok fine we might have visited it almost every day. It’s just THAT good. If you have never tried a maple bacon donut, well now is your chance! They also have kolaches, danishes, and some other breakfast food.
Bud and Alley’s– Looking for a great place to watch the sunset and enjoy a great cocktail? This is a great place! The good is amazing as well as you can tell by the crowds. Go early and don’t mind the crowds because it is such a fun place to be. They also have a pizza and taco bar located right next door!
Besides the beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal blue water there is SO much more to do and see! If you are like me I can’t just lay on a beach, I like to explore and still get my tan on while being active. Here are a few of my favorite things around town.
Bike Riding– The number one form of transportation to get around town and to the beach is going to be by way of bikes. My favorite thing to do is bike around the neighborhoods of multi-colored beach cottages. It really is like riding past homes plucked straight off of Pinterest, y’all! This is a no brainer that you must do! Also if you enjoy early morning bike rides to get your morning brew, Amavida is located in the town square and is a must! This quickly became my favorite morning ritual.
Paddle Boarding– It is the thing to do here! It is a little more tricky than paddleboarding on a lake but if you are looking for a fun challange and are bored of laying around on the beach, this is a fun, and pretty cheap alternative!
Town Events– The town square has events going on most nights. From outdoor movies, to concerts, to live bands, there is always something! That’s why you must spend at least one night (if not every night) in the town square just to experience everything going on and all of the yummy food to boot! Fun fact: I got to be in a music video that they were taping one morning. So basically I’m famous, y’all 😉
Shopping– You know I couldn’t end this blog post without telling y’all about where to get your shop on! The town square has so many cute boutiques and pop up shops but let me warn you they are pretty pricey. A girl can window shop though right?! If you are looking for a more budget friendly option, Destin is pretty close and has a great outlet mall! Rainy beach days call for shopping!
If you plan to go to Seaside and have any more questions on where to stay or what to do, please feel free to reach out. Fair warning: I might be pretty persistent on wanting to tag along in your suitcase. I know I can’t wait to go back and it is a place that I will bring my family to for years to come!
Here I go again with another Nordstrom sale post because this sale is just that good and it’s finally open to the non-carholders! *Que the angels singing * The cardholders might have snatched up some of the designer must haves and popular items, but there are still plenty of greatly discounted items for us mere peasants. I kid, I kid. But really, get your shopping carts ready cause it’s shopping time and there are some great deals to be had!
In case you didn’t already know, the reason why the Nordstrom sale is so great is because all of these items aren’t your normal end of the season junk items that they are just looking to get rid of. They are this season’s hottest items that go on sale for a limited time and then will go right back to their normal price once the sale is over.
While there are plenty of great picks for right now’s warm weather, I highly suggest going ahead and stocking up for Fall. Your Fall boots, coats and outerwear tend to usually be more expensive than those summer shorts and tank tops so grabbing them for a huge discount doesn’t hurt. You will see below that I started with a round up of items that you can use NOW. Think summer essentials. Next, I picked out my favorite work wear must haves that are great for all year round. Following that, are my top Fall favorites and lastly I picked out the best shoes for the cooler weather.
You will find that the majority of my picks are under $100 if not under $50 as well. My goal was to find the best deals out there for you guys! I also have another Nordstrom post that I did with my top picks under $100 if you want to check that out here. Otherwise, may your check books be ever in your favor and happy shopping! 😉
*To shop any of the below items, click on the corresponding number or picture below each collage*
Hi everyone! Recently a lot of you have been asking me for blog advice, and I absolutely LOVE answering those questions when I get them. Seriously, if you ever have any questions, send them my way and I would be more than happy to answer whatever you are wondering. I am honestly flattered to hear from you guys!
Anywho, I always tell everyone that my one piece of blog advice is to be transparent and not be afraid to get real on your blog. I tell everyone this yet lately, I have felt like I am not doing the same with you. Like I am scared to open up or that I might be judged for something that I say. Well that is going to stop today. I want this to be a place where yes, I share my daily outfits and fashion inspiration, but I also want it to be more than that. I want it to be deeper than that. By opening up and sharing what’s on my heart, maybe I can help one person or connect with someone who is at the same place in life.
One of my best friends, Brittany from Hello Honey blog, had the idea first to write a letter to herself. Then this past weekend at Brunch and Slay, one of the speakers asked us all what we would write in a letter to ourselves. What would we say if we were writing to ourself 10 years from now? Well, that really got me thinking and so here it goes. I guess if I’m going to really do this, I better start this off right so here it goes.
Dear Shelbi,
That probably sounds weird reading a letter to yourself from yourself but just go with it. You are always giving advice to others, and pretty darn good advice at that, but you never seem to take your own. It probably doesn’t help that you are flying through life at a million miles a minute and barely pause to take time for yourself. That’s one thing that you need to learn, to pause and be present, especially for the people and things that matter most to you. At the end of the day there will always be more work, there will always be more things to do, and your to-do list might never get done, but none of that is important. What is important is that you show up for the people that show up for you and even when sometimes they don’t. Don’t lose sight of what is important in life and when you do, pause, put down the worries of deadlines, fear of missing out, laziness, or any other excuses and show up. Be present.
Stop worrying about what you cannot control. It’s going to take you a little while to find the path to what you want to do in life but don’t stop trying. Each new person you meet and each new experience is going to bring you closer to where you are supposed to be. Slowly but surely you will find your way. Don’t even worry about boys. The moment you stop looking is when God will place somebody in your life. Or that’s what you’ve got to keep telling yourself otherwise you are going to go crazy and overthink everything more than you already do. But really, trust God always because he’s got your back even when you start to think he doesn’t.
Our world is starting to harden you and each new tragedy makes you more and more emotionless. Don’t ever become numb. Instead feel everything, even when you don’t want to. Even through the breakups that feel like they will never pass. Even when friends start to fade away. Even when those close to you go to be with the Lord. It won’t be easy but it will be worth it. You will be stronger and you will make it. Find happiness in the little things even when it is hard. Get out, explore and be adventurous, even when you aren’t feeling up to it because that’s when you end up having the most fun and come back smiling.
Be smart with your finances. You were a Finance major after all! Stop being lazy and start caring about saving money. I know that you joke that there is no use in taking any money to the grave with you but let’s be real here for a minute. You are going to live a long life (if you don’t run out of money and become a hobo!) so start thinking about the fact that some day you will have bigger bills to pay than your credit card bill consisting of online shopping and excessive Chick-fil-a trips. Some day you will want to buy a house and you might even be crazy enough to have kids and if they are anything like you, they are going to cost a fortune!
When it comes to friends- quality over quantity. You make friends easily but you are picky about who you let in. You read people far too well and that is something that may get you in to trouble sometimes, but it is also the reason why you are selective when it comes to people you trust. You also have never had a problem telling it how it is. You call it “honesty” but others who aren’t as upfront might find it rude sometimes. Don’t lost your sense of honesty but maybe tone it down a notch. Sally doesn’t need to actually know if she looks fat in that crop top. Maybe just let that one slide. But really, if you are ever feeling down about the quantity of friends that you have, remember that you are far more lucky to have quality friends than an abundance of friends that do not genuinely care about you.
Ok if you’ve made it this far, I have one last piece of advice for you. You have got to stop eating like crap and start taking care of your body. I know you think that you will never gain weight and that you’d literally rather die than go to the grocery store, but you have got to learn what green beans taste like. Also your poor future husband would probably appreciate it if you learned to cook because a diet consisting of Spaghetti O’s and frozen pizza is probably not going to cut it. Hint hint: this would probably also help you cut down on your credit card bills since you eat every single meal out.
Above all, remember to count your blessings, give thanks where it is due, stand up for what you believe in, show up and be present, put your phone down, get more sleep, learn to like green beans, do more of what makes your soul happy, spend less on clothes, and never lose sight of who you are and what you want in life.
