Button Front Skirt

Spring is in full swing, but we are quickly ushering in summer with temperatures reaching almost 100 degrees already. Yikes! I'm really thankful that cotton skirts are in style right now, and especially a-line, button front ones. A-line shapes are generally flattering on most women because they minimize your hips and butt. 

I found out about Hope Ave recently, and they had this adorable blue pin striped skirt I had to get my hands on. When it gets hot enough I plan to wear a cute bandeau or one piece with this to the beach. 

I highly recommend checking out Hope Ave for some cute affordable spring clothes. 

Photos by Rennai Hoefer

Fossil Spring Bag

Can you believe spring is almost here? I can't really tell with the sudden drop in temperatures here in Phoenix, but that hasn't stopped me from transitioning my accessories over to the new season. 

As you know Fossil is my go-to place for handbags and watches. I think I have about four different handbags from them now. The quality of their leather and their prices just can't be beat, and the styles are SO CUTE. I saw this white Ryder Satchel with black and brown detailing and I knew it would be that perfect spring and summer bag to go with everything. 

I like this bag because it's actually quite large. It holds all of my stuff and then some. I have carried three books in this bag. It also has a detachable strap when you just want to wear it as a handbag instead of a shoulder bag. 

You'll also notice that I'm wearing one of their new hybrid watches. This one is stainless steel and called the Jaqueline Hybrid Smartwatch. It syncs to your phone and vibrates when you have a text or a call, but doesn't show who is calling. I like that feature because it alerts you to check your phone but it's not as distracting as the full smartwatch.  

I must say silver has grown on me again, and I'm starting to switch back to it, especially for the summer seasons. What do you think? Are you more of a silver or a gold person?

Photos by Rennai Hoefer; Product given as a form of payment.

2018 Prescribed Reading List

Part of my healing process has been reading words of wisdom from other people that have either gone through grief or divorce or researched it. Counseling has been great with helping me understand my emotions, but sometimes you just need more insight and something to help you continue to process your thoughts. So, most weekends and weeknights you'll find me curled up on this blue velvet couch in my favorite Natori jams reading, crying, laughing, and reading some more.

We are two weeks into our first month of 2018, and I already have five books on my list. Some wonderful women that have gone through hard things have given me books telling me emphatically, "You have to read this!" The books below have just showed up in my home whether it's someone handing them to me or mailing them to me. I've given myself the task of reading one book a month. 

1. Rising Strong by Brene Brown
2. Of Mess & Moxie by Jen Hatmaker
3. Option B by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Grant
4. Second Firsts by Christina Rasmussen
5. Tiny Beautiful Things; Advice on love and life from Dear Sugar by Cheryl Strayed

I need seven more recommendations. What are some other books that you would recommend in this season of life? 

Photos by Rennai Hoefer

Serenity

This post is sponsored by James Avery.

To me, jewelry that is treasured most has a story behind it. It could be the most expensive piece or the least expensive, but the person who gave it to me or the reason why I purchased the jewelry is usually what makes it special.  

James Avery is a jewelry company that I grew up with back in Houston, Texas.  I have several silver pieces of jewelry made by James Avery. They are treasured because of my sweet friends that gave them to me, and the spiritual meaning behind them. Being a Christian, I find I'm drawn to a lot of James Avery pieces of because of their cross motifs. When I first started pursuing my faith I was given a ring with a cross in it by James Avery. I also have a silver charm bracelet that I received the day of graduation from there. 

So, when James Avery reached out to tell me about some of their new pieces I was thrilled to review the line and tell you about one piece in particular that means a lot to me. There's something for everyone, but there was this ring from their Serene collection that I had to have. Now that I'm not wearing a wedding ring anymore, my left hand feels naked. When I saw how simple this ring was and that it was called the "serene ring" I thought to myself,  "This is the perfect reminder for me to always trust God." With my life being so different and new I struggle with surrendering things to Him, but this ring reminds me that I already have peace because I have God. It also reminds me to be bold in my faith because this ring is definitely bold.

I like wearing this ring with this vintage ring my mom gave me. It's actually the very first gift my dad ever gave my mother. And with a marriage "failing," it brings me encouragement that there are other marriages that have survived. That brings my heart peace and serenity. 

Do you have pieces of jewelry like that? I'd love to hear more about them. And if you're looking to give a special gift be sure to check out the beautiful pieces from James Avery. They really have something for everyone, and the hand crafted quality and price makes the gift one you can't pass up. 

Photos by Rennai Hoefer

Work Chic Accessories

Being at an office has given me more of a reason to dress up every day. One of the ways I like to show my personality is through accessories. Fossil always has my favorite leather good and watches. 

I recently fell in love with this navy watch and delicate bracelet. It was different that the typical brown, black or metallic watches I have bought in the past. I have realized that navy goes with a lot, and I even like to wear black, brown and navy all together sometimes. 

Fossil also has a ton of leather bags to choose from. I thought this cranberry tote was the perfect bag to carry my laptop. 

It also has a separate smaller purse to keep your wallet and change. I was sold on the color, but the functionality is fantastic too. 

If you're looking for some classic holiday gift ideas, be sure to check these goodies out at Fossil.

Photos by Rennai Hoefer; product given for post.