Thanksgiving Afternoon

Monday, November 28, 2016

When your sisters dog matches your outfit you include him in a picture!
Top: Forever 21 (old)
Skirt: c/o Gamiss
Shoes: Thrifted
Purse: Vintage Coach
Broach: Vintage

Thanksgiving has been passed for the past 4 days and Christmas is already in full swing! As soon as the clock strikes midnight on Thanksgiving day it is time for ALL THINGS CHRISTMAS with holiday sales, shopping, decking the halls, playing Christmas Music, pulling out the sweaters, and filling the kitchen with aromas of delectable baked goods. 

It was so lovely to have a short break (even though there are less than 3 weeks left in the semester) from college to visit with family, spend time with my sister, and be absolutely WAY to lazy. Thanksgiving day was lovely as always visiting with family and eating the traditional Thanksgiving feast. As per tradition, after lunch all of the ladies congregated at the Large dining room table to plan out our Black Friday shopping, after which I took a quick trip downtown to snap some pictures of my outfit.....in the words of my mom "Did you specifically wear that outfit knowing you would take pictures of it?" Yes.....yes I did!

Seriously though, this skirt is to die for! I would wear it every day if it was socially acceptable because the cut is so flattering and of course the plaid print is perfect for this time of year. You might remember it from my Instagram, but this time I decided to pair it with a black sweater....maybe next time it I will wear it with a red sweater:)

All in all Thanksgiving was wonderful! My mom, sister and I went shopping on Black Friday and as always I took advantage of Old Navy's 50% off sale. Friday evening my sister and I drove back to college and started the Gilmore Girl's Revival "A Year In The Life" and man was that AMAZING! 

I hope all of you had a lovely Thanksgiving break and are "somewhat" ready to get back into the swing of things until Christmas break! 

What did you do over Thanksgiving?
Did you go Black Friday shopping?

-Madison

To Be Thankful

Thursday, November 24, 2016


HAPPY THANKSGIVING! I seriously can't believe that it is already the time of the year where we stuff ourselves till we almost burst and then fall into a daze once the triptofan hits :) While there are so many holidays that we celebrate throughout the year, Thanksgiving is one of  those holidays that seems to kick off the entire holiday season, full of life lessons, family, thanks, cheer, and Christmas spirit. However, before I get caught up in talking about Christmas lets turn back to Thanksgiving and reflect on what it truly means to be "thanful!" 
I have to say that the idea of Thankfulness has taken on an entirely different meaning for me over the past couple of weeks. I feel as though we often focus on being thankful for the good and positive things around us and try to forget about the things that might not have been all that great. However, I think that if we could start to focus on the things around us that might have started off as negative situations, we would soon find there are truly more things to be thankful fore than we realize! 
With that being said, I think it is important to be thankful for the blessings in our life, but at the same time, we should reflect on the things that we often fail to give thanks for, because they themselves are likely to be things we don't want in our lives. 

Keeping this idea in mind, on Thanksgiving day I am Thankful For......

    1. The lady at the campus parking office who called me 10 minutes before my car almost got towed, and who also erased 8 of my 10 citations (that I didn't even know I had) from my parking account. 
    2. The opportunity to work in college, have a steady salary and meet incredible people.
    3. For friends who know exactly what I am thinking and who stick by me in difficult situations.
    4. People, places, and things that stretch me beyond my comfort zone even though it might be the scariest thing EVER!
    5. Opportunities....to meet new people and be a positive influence.
    6. Being awkward (as unfortunate as it is sometimes) because without that side of me there would be no funny stories to tell....
    7. Still being single....yes, I did just say that, but seriously being single is a time to cherish for its freedom and ability to be available and openly used by God. 
    8. Only having 2 more semesters of college left.....yes that means that the future is looming ahead and I don't exactly know what will happen after graduation, but I am thankful for an uncertain future. 
    9. Only living an hour away from my family!
    10. Having a crazy family who laughs at the most ridiculous things, has the funniest inside jokes, and who baffles everyone that we meet with our closeness. 
    11. Lessons...both good and bad, whether it is someone correcting my mistakes, learning from others mistakes around me, or simply learning general life lessons.
    12. The Blogsphere....so much has happened over my time of starting the blog and I couldn't be more grateful for all of those experiences and for all of you who are such lovely and loyal supporters of the things I am passionate!
    13. Coffee.....gotta throw that in there because it is a substance to surviving college (kind of) and being a "hug in a cup."
    14. Valleys....valleys are the hard journeys of life that we don't want to be happy about and we want to feel down in the dumps about, but in order to reach a peak on the hill we have to first go through valleys. 
    15. New phones....or might I say, an iPhone......yes, I just upgraded from my prehistoric slider phone. Let's just say I am SUPER happy:)
    16. Parents who support me in college, in my interest, and in following my dreams.
    17. Siblings who make life so much more interesting and who inspire me daily!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

What are the difficult things you are thankful for?

-Madison


21 for 21

Monday, November 21, 2016


Hello and happy Monday lovelies! If any of you follow me on social media you probably noticed that I celebrated my birthday last Wednesday. I still can't believe that I turned 21......I feel like its one of those ages where you feel so old, but also so young and completely unready and unprepared for what the future holds (ahhhhh)! With that being said however, I wanted to do something a little different this year for my birthday. 

I couple of months ago I saw something on facebook from a girls who did 21 random acts of kindness for her 21st birthday and I thought that was such a brilliant and inspiring idea; thus I adopted it for my recent birthday and wanted to share it with you all today. 

I feel like in the world of the 21st century we often become so selfish and self absorbed that we don't take the time to appreciate others around us, or even simply just to show someone (even a stranger) that we care. Kindness has in some respects diminished in the world, but even in its rarity it is a true gem and light amidst a dark world. To be honest, the whole idea of doing some of the things on my list completely scares me (like buying someone lunch or coffee) but I believe that it is in those moments of dying to our own comforts and stepping outside of our comfort zone that we have the ability to make the GREATEST impact on people! 

"Kindness is a language that the deaf can hear and the blind can see."
- MARK TWAIN

    1. Buy someone coffee on campus (I actually just bought a lady coffee at starbucks today...she was completely surprised.....but I might also do it on campus)
    2. Buy someone's lunch.
    3. Brind DONUTS to the office on a Friday morning. 
    4. Handout flowers with encouraging phrases to girls on campus.
    5. Create encouraging mirror art in the bathroom of a building on campus (yes, that sounds like vandalism, but I promise it won't be)
    6. Leave sticky note encouragement in random places around campus. 
    7. Write and leave encouraging comments on blogs and or social media posts :)
    8. Text my college friends who live out of state or far away!
    9. Thank all of the maintenance crew and Janitors who keep my house clean and all the buildings on campus tidy. 
    10. Help someone with groceries (we shall see if this opportunity presents itself)
    11. Leave a BIG tip for a server at a restaurant! (I actually completed this one on Saturday)
    12. Let someone go ahead of me in line.....
    13. Put a tip in the tip jar at a coffee shop!
    14. Ask if someone needs anything when I run to the store. 
    15. Pick up trash and litter that I see when walking and throw it away. 
    16. Complement a stranger.
    17. Send "Thank You" notes to people who have helped me or do so much for others!
    18. Hold the door open for someone. 
    19. Bring cookies or a treat to a staff meeting. 
    20. Write letters to my family:)
    21. Smile at people that I pass / Strike up a conversation with the cashier at the grocery store (this means I can't go to self checkout).

How do you feel about random acts of kindness?
Have you ever done something like this?
Has someone ever done something like this for you?

-Madison

"I Can't Believe I'm In The Blogsphere!"

Friday, November 18, 2016

 Skirt: Thrifted
Sweater: Thrifted
Shoes: Target (old)
Purse: Thrifted
Broach: Vintage
Glasses: c/o Firmo

Extra points and kudos to you if you know where the quote title is taken from! I think that will always be a favorite quote from Gilmore Girls because it seems so relevant to me as a blogger (and I just re-watched that episode a couple of weeks ago). But in all seriousness....who is getting EXCITED for the return of Gilmore Girls!!! I am counting down the days and planning a mini watch party with my sister who is coming back to school with me for a couple days after Thanksgiving. We are planning on having all of the Gilmore Girl worthy food and snacks such as pizza, Chinese food, other junk food, and LOTS of coffee, etc.... 

With that being said, I must say that a number of my fall ensembles lately have seemed very
"Rory Gilmore" inspired, but let's be honest, her entire Collegiate Yale wardrobe is by far the most fabulous thing ever and so reminisce of our current weather and styles. From plaid skirts to sweaters and boots her Yale worthy looks are what we all dream of! Thus, I couldn't help thinking of Rory when I created this look. While it is more of a vintagy style, I feel like its the perfect representation of my own "personal" take on Rory's style! I can see her wearing this floral corduroy skirt and definitely this sweater, but for old time sake I added a vintage broach, oxford shoes, and scholarly glasses. To say I am a "little" in love with this combo is a complete understatements!

I think at this time of year, as the season changes and the air cools off we all reach for those classic sweaters, plaid skirts, corduroy (if you have it) and boots. If you are in college (like me) you might even be inspired to take those fall styles and give them a scholarly edge with a cardigan, book bag, or glasses (like in this post). However, whatever your current style, season, or preference I think we can all agree that Gilmore Girls will never go out of style!

Are you a Gilmore Girls fan?
Do you like Rory's style?
What are some of they styles you gravitate towards?

 -Madison


The Perfect Sunglasses With Eye Folds

Tuesday, November 15, 2016


Sunglasses are one of those accessories that not only have protective benefits, but can also add so much to an outfit. Have you ever worried about breaking your sunglasses in transport? I know that when it comes to carrying around my sunglasses, I often worry that they will break in my purse. Sunglasses can be so fragile and often times we will invest in a pair of shades for their fit, style, and brand and hope that that will be durable and last us awhile. 
That is why I was so excited to partner with Eyefolds Eyewear, a company inspired by the idea that eyewear should be easy to carry around, thus creating their iconic folding eyewear! I must say that their folding frames are quite brilliantly engineered to be expertly folded into a compact shape while still keeping with fashionable styles. I was able to pick out three styles, and while I was surpriesed at the variety of options, I chose three styles that reflect a more vintage look. The great thing about their glasses is that all Eyefold frames come in a variety of style options such as Aviatory, Wayfarer, Clubmaster, and even Readers (which I can't get over because they are the most stylish thing ever). 

Countryclub-Tortoise Gloss Gold


Countryclub-Tortoise Gloss Silver


Countryclub-TortSilverMatte Flash
Style 1, Style 2, Style 3


If you have ever worried about breaking your sunglasses (or glasses) or maybe you are one of those people with the gift of breaking things :), then I highly suggest you consider trying out Eyefolds! If you are blow away by these revolutionary sunglasses (just like I was) you can hop on over to their site and take a browse for yourself! 
If you see something that like you can use the code:
MUSE16 for $20 off your purchase till November 30th! 

Have you ever seen folding sunglasses?
What do you think about Eyefolds?
Do you like the 3 styles in this post?

-Madison

Recent Faves pt. 7

Wednesday, November 9, 2016


Hello lovelies.....It's time for a new favorites post because these links have been filling up this draft and I can't wait to share them with you all! There have been so many swoon worthy posts recently from my favorite bloggers as well as number of fabulous other items, songs, articles, videos and what not. Hope you find something that catches your eye! 

  • Loving this post over on the Modcloth blog talking about Layering Your Legs For Fall! I am all about socks and tights in the fall and I love these tips. 
  • I have always been one to love other people's homes and apartments...falling in love with the simple details and how they so perfectly describe the person who lives there, so of course I am in love with Daphne's Apartment in Paris France (who wouldn't be)! 
  • Loving Klara's denim jumper dress, milkmaid braids, and bangs in her recent post over on A Robot Heart!
  • I have always been a fan of simple and classic jersey dresses and This striped dress from eShakti is so perfect! 
  • Now I know it's possible to pull of white converse + frayed jeans + a classic neck scarf because Daphne is rocking it in her Recent Post!
  • FOREVER the BIGGEST fan of any "Introvert" products and this "Currently Introverting" Shirt is the GREATEST! 
  • Okay...keeping on with the "Introverting" goodness is this article about 22 Shirts That Every Introvert Needs which totally made my day and had me laughing so hard because they are 100% accurate! 
  • Jessica newest post "Lakeside" over on The Boyer Sister's makes me so happy with its perfect and simple 1930's vibes...plus, can we all just take a road trip to this lake! 
  • Another Blogger Love goes to Lauren over on Someone Like You who created another perfect outfit combination with a barrette hat, silk neck scarf, and knee high socks!
  • If any of you are HUGE fans of High School Musical (like me!) than you have to check out Anthem Light's newest recording that is a High School Musical Medley and is literally the BEST THING since double stuffed oreos!!!
  • Shawn Mendez's album Illuminate has been playing on repeat for me lately!
Did you discover any new faves?

-Madison

Refined Elegance with eShakti

Monday, November 7, 2016

Dress: c/o eShakti
Shoes: Thrifted
Clutch: Vintage (thrifted)
Earrings: Old

With its flowy fabric, midi length, and ruffles, this dress is a dream! As soon as I put it on I was imagining myself attending an elegant evening event such as a theater performance, fancy party, or even a lovely dinner at a classic Italian Restaurant! A girl needs a fancy dress every now and then, and a wonderful excuse to wear it proudly like a lady! 

Sadly, I don't have many opportunities to dress up ("fancy"), but that doesn't stop me from creating my own excuses to pull out a fancy dress, apply lipstick, choose a sparkly pair of earring, slip into heels, and grab a vintage clutch for a photo shoot! With my imagination and a lovely picture spot anything is possible:) 

However, lets get back to this dress! I was so thrilled to partner with eShakti again for a style collaboration and review because I truly can NEVER say enough about this brand! Not only do they have an array of unique styles, but they have a wonderful customer service and it is always a pleasure working with them.Whether its a specific style, print, length, or design, eShakti always has something that I LOVE. However, even if I can't find what I am looking for, I can always create it with their customization tool! That's right....with eShakti you can actually customize any dress specifically for your taste, whether that is changing the sleeves, altering the length, picking a different neckline, or even submitting your own measurements, eShakti has something for everyone! 

Some things I have learned through working with eShakti: It is typically a good idea to size down...for example, this dress is a size 2. I typically can't fit into size 2's but with eShakti a 2 is the perfect fit for me, especially if I get princess seams, which typically have to be fairly accurate sizing to fit right (stick with the closest sizing even if it is an inch less). Also, I will say that since every piece is customized for each person, it does take a bit longer than normal to receive your package, so be patient.

As soon as I saw this dress when browsing their styles I fell in love! There is definitely something so classic about polka dots, and I can't help being drawn to the dark color and ruffles. Originally this dress came with cap sleeves, but when I saw it I immediately thought of the 1930's and decided to swap the cap sleeves for a flowy ruffle sleeve....BEST choice ever! Surprisingly I didn't change the length of the dress as it was already mid-calf (usually most dresses are to short for me) and it fell right into the midi styles that I so love!

Do you like or create excuses to dress up?
Have you ever ordered from eShakti?

-Madison

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