Neutral

shirt: Target (similar)
skirt: Calvin Klein (similar)
shoes: Ann Taylor (similar)
bag: Kate Spade (similar)
necklace: Target (similar)

Yesterday was all about bright and bold colors but today we are talking neutrals and pastels. Whatever the mood strikes, I guess. At times I feel like I want to be low-key but put together, other times I want to put on every color in my closet. Clothes are such a feelings-based territory that it's hard not to judge people by what they wear. If you don't care about your appearances and aren't groomed, it will definitely send a clear message. But if you are put together in a clean, proper clothing, people will treat you with respect. I've noticed that in my life. If I dress and behave like a lady, I get more open doors and prime parking spots. So if there is one advantage to shopaholism (is that even a word?) is that you get free stuff and more parking. Yes, that's the meaning of life. I'm just joking (it's Friday after all). 

I hope you have a great weekend! 

DON'T FORGET TO ENTER SPRING STYLE CHALLENGE WHICH ENDS SOON! 

Bold

sweater: Banana Republic (similar)
 skirt: J.Crew (similar)
 crossbody: TJMaxx (similar, similar)
rain boots: Old Navy (similar)
watch: Target (similar)

It wouldn't be spring without some rain. I'm so glad to see the snow gone and warmer days emerge. It really is amazing what some sunshine and warmth does to your being. Well, it's not totally warm here and most days it's still below fifty but still, there is hope. And as usual, spring brings along a huge to-so list. Everything from cleaning the garage to planning the vacation is on there. But for now, I have my red boots to keep my mood up (even in the rain).

The Gentle Reminder

When everything is going well, we do not appreciate or take the time to enjoy what we have. We brush things off, ignore people and pass by our children being busy with who knows what. We just keep on living without realizing how much we have, how fragile life is and how it only takes a second for everything to come crushing down. 

We had a health-related scare with our little guy. As first time parents, we were freaked out and frightened. We didn't know what was going on and at the time, everything seemed possible and scary. After a short visit to the E.R. we were relieved with a mild diagnosis and went home with a thankful heart.

As we put the little guy to sleep and the house turned into silence, we realized that everything could have gone much worse, that really, we have so much. With a tearful prayer and a thankful heart we were locked in the most intimate and lovable embrace. We were so so glad. We were happy.  It was the bittersweet realization that it's so good to have each other, that we really are amazing together, that we didn't crack under stress, that we didn't blow up or shout at each other. Also, a gentle reminder from the Lord to always be thankful, to live every day to the fullest, to be kinder to each other, to spend more time with our son, to make memories, to be happy in the moment, to be mindful of our hearts, to be sincere in our walk, to love the Lord our God with all our hearts. 

I believe God puts us through difficult things for a very specific reason. We may not know it at the time but among one of them is to make us appreciate the good times. We go through testing and trials to understand God's grace, to know that His love sustains and His mercy endures forever. It's the gentle reminders we all need.