Category: Uncategorized
Fish in a Tree
This book spoke to me so deeply because it reminded me of my former students. I miss them so, so, so incredibly much I can’t explain it. I think about them and how they’re doing and what obstacles they’re facing and if they’re putting commas in their compound sentences. I also remember the tears, the smiles, the laughs, the hugs, and all the things that come along with being a teacher. There’s so much more to EVERY student than what you see on the surface. Finding those triggers and poignant pieces is the absolute key to being a successful teacher [in my little ole opinion].
The main character in this book is a vibrant young girl who finds her spark igniting thanks to a substitute teacher. He gives her the strength she needs to realize that she may be a fish in a tree, but that she can swim better than anyone around. A very fast, poignant read indeed.
Loving Lately
This Dress from Nordstrom
I looooooved wearing this dress for a date night a while ago. It’s super comfy yet still sexy (good thing, too, because I ate way too much at our yummy dinner that night). The shoulders actually stay put on your arms unlike some dresses that like to creep up your arms.
This Other Dress from Nordstrom
I haven’t had a chance to wear this little number yet [#momlife], but I’m hoping to bring it on our upcoming Charleston trip. Super cute and flirty!
These Jellies from Nordstrom
The freakin’ eighties are back, ladies (and gentlemen, too)! Two of my sisters-in-law had these gorgeous lovelies at the beach, and I tried them on for good measure. They’re ridiculously comfortable and bring back my childhood. Although they’re even cuter than they were back then. Just sayin’.
This Sunscreen Stick from Amazon
I’ve got super sensitive skin on my face due to a condition called Melasma. That means that basically, random splotches on my face will be about 5 shades darker than the rest of my face. It ain’t cute. I’ve tried tons of different products, and this sunscreen is by far the best I’ve had so far! It’s got Zinc Oxide, it goes on very easily, and it stays on very well. I apply it about 2-3 times an hour, and I’ve had the fewest problems with my skin this summer than any before! Love it!
This Dress from Francesca’s
This is one of my absolute favorite finds this year! It’s unbelievably comfortable and breathable which makes it perfect for hot summers when you’re still tryin’ to look cute. I love the cold shoulder + ruffle combo, too.
(And sorry, the two adorable guys don’t come with the dress.)
I sleep in them literally every night. As a bustier gal, I used to always sleep in a sports bra to stay comfortable, but they were always so cumbersome! I decided to try these out after seeing them advertised on Facebook. I clearly (seven bras later) love them. A lot. A lot. A lot.

This Dress from Old Navy
I get complimented whenever I wear this dress (esp by Jon Boy), so I wear it as much as possible. Super comfy (see a pattern in this post?) and also very flowy (but not in a moo-moo way).
Penny approves, too.
This Swim Romper from Old Navy
This is another beauty I just haven’t had an opportunity to wear yet. I’m saving it for Charleston because it’s just too cute to wear to the neighborhood pool (for its debut anyway). I’d definitely wear this out as just a regular romper, too! It’s adorable and comfy, comfy, comfy!
This Other Dress from Old Navy
You’ve gotta love Chambray. I wear this one on nights when I want to be comfortable and cute. It hugs all right places, but it’s loose in places you need a little “freedom” in. You could make it casual or dress it up with accessories.
These Stuffed Shells from Pioneer Woman
I know this one isn’t of the fashion-variety, but you’ve gotta love a go-to, freezer-friendly, crowd-pleasing recipe! I made this little number for our recent trip to Port Aransas so that when we all got to the house, all we had to do was chunk ‘er in the oven and wait for delicious, cheesy, savory pasta!
With all the rough stuff going on in the news every. single. day, I like to remind myself of my duty and purpose. This quote by good ole Ralphy Emerson always brings me back to ground zero.
Port Aransas with the Family + Avocado and Tomato Salad

The third floor kitchen area was beautiful and spacious. We had a perfect view of the ocean which was pristine and ohhh so peaceful.

Avocado and Tomato Salad
4 avocados, cubed
4 tomatoes, cored, seeds removed, diced*
1/4 cup red onion, diced
EVOO
1 tbs. balsamic vinegar
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
In a large bowl, combine avocados, tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle just enough EVOO to coat the veggie, toss to combine. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
*I used Campari tomatoes this time, but you can really use any kind of tomato. I think Roma would work very well, too. Just try to have an equal amount of avocado and tomato.
The Republic Grille
Salt to the Sea
The sinking of the ship is a huge part of the story, but it’s the way Sepetys writes the characters that makes you see a different side of the war that’s rarely written about: the side of the German people. They suffered greatly, though in different ways in comparison to those in concentration camps.
I’d highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a compelling read that leaves you with a deeper understanding of humanity during times of war. Sepetys has written other novels (Between Shades of Gray and Out of the Easy), and I can’t wait to read both!
A Trip to Mexico + Life Lately
In a Dark, Dark Wood
German Potatoes + A Great Week with the Big Guy
Meet Bernard the Butterfly Betta!
[check out that Spongebob shout out]
Had to get the Texans shirt for this Houstonian doggie.
These two. I find them like this all the time. Melts my heart.
I started a new book this week, and I’m in love! It’s called Fish in a Tree, and it’s already speaking to my heart. The foreword alone got me:
We also had Corey’s 18 month doctor appointment this week, and he’s growing like a weed to say the least. At least he’s on charts this time [yupp… he was literally off the charts a few check ups]. He’s already cutting his two year molars, and I’m dying. Poor guy is in pain. I hope they come through quickly! I did a little googling and thought I’d share the charts I found for tooth development: