Monday, January 27, 2014

OOTD: Patterns & Jewel Tones

Long time no post....lately I've been without my computer and camera and it's been so tough.  My phone is great but updating the blog is treacherous.  Well now that my computer is back up and running, I can't say the same for my camera (but my phone will do your now), I can get back to posting regularly.  Here's what I'm wearing today.




Top: Dots / Skirt: Dots / Shoes: Old Navy / Watch:  Thrifted / Bracelet:  Charlotte Russe / Necklace:  Alloy

Hope you enjoyed.  

Friday, January 10, 2014

This Week In Retrospect: Sneak Peek



This week has been full of surprises and a little panic.  I feel like I'm finally back to taking blogging seriously even with all of the fatigue and morning sickness (aka anytime sickness).  However, yesterday was the probably one of the scariest days of my life.  I had to leave my job early to go see my doctor for an emergency ultrasound because I believed that I was having a miscarriage (I decided to spare you all the details).  I was so scared that I may have lost my precious little bundle however when they checked mommy and baby were just fine. Needless to say I was overjoyed.  I even got to see my little 'lemon baby' and now I'd like to share with you the first glimpse of baby Smith.

He's Chillin'

I'm glad to be back to blogging and I'm eternally grateful for the health of my baby.  I hope everyone has a great weekend.  

Thanks for reading.  XOXO

Thursday, January 9, 2014

Advice: Planning

"Plans are nothing; planning is everything."
-Dwight D. Eisenhower



Life is hectic and that's a fact that we all know.  Changes come up every minute and just when you think you have it all mapped out it's generally at those times that you come to a roadblock.  However, if you're looking to increase you productivity, get organized, or make the most of your free time planning is a great way to accomplish your goals.   So where do you start?  For those who are just beginning I'd like to share a few tips that have helped me.

My choice tools for planning. 
1.  Reserve a block of time during your day for planning.
For myself, this is usually at around 6:30 in the morning as I am having my cup of tea.  You can choose to map out your day whenever you please but I suggest doing this either the night before or first thing in the morning.

2.  Choose the tool that works best for you.
Whether it's an app on your phone or a planner just make sure to have something on hand that makes your tasks for the day visual.


3.  Take it day by day.
There's nothing wrong with planning ahead (monthly/annually) and I do especially when I know I have appointments, meetings, or deadlines to keep. However, my detailed planning is most effective when I list my 'to-dos' on a daily basis.  It helps me focus.

4. Mark things off.
When you've completed a task mark through it.  It's helpful to see what you accomplished and how much you can accomplish.

5.  Take it easy.
Planning is a tool for you to use to help you not stress you out.  Don't worry if you don't complete a task on the day you planned to just add it to the next day's list.  Planning is a guide and for the most part your guide is pliable.

As I always say change is inevitable and everything that we plan does not always come to fruition.  Planning is not to be mistaken with setting out a hardcore plan for your day.  It should be seen as more of a guide for your day.  Planning is a means to help you stay focused and accomplish your goals.  I hope this helps.


Thank you for reading. XOXO