Backpack.

Photos by Jenna Magill

Dress: American Eagle Outfitters (similar here)

Plaid shirt: American Eagle Outfitters (similar here)

Necklace: Hello Darlings

Backpack: Rebecca Minkoff (similar here)

Loafers: Zara

Lipstick: MAC "Extended Play"

Kimono

When I look back on it, moving away from my hometown for a few years was a great growth process for me.  Growing up, I always felt like the odd man out and misunderstood when I expressed myself.  I loved to wear whatever caught my fancy, I remember layering 3 skirts on top of each other when I was 7 because they were my favorites - and how can you wear only one of your favorite skirts at a time?  I'd say it was after 8th grade I got tired of standing out, I didn't want my creative quirkiness to be rejected anymore, I was over the confused stares and feeling different so I decided to wear my own version of what everyone else seemed to like.  I don't think I ever pulled off fitting in though.  Fast-forward several years later (after getting my A.A.), I moved away from my hometown and that really helped me come into myself and rediscover what I loved and what was me and just forget about what was not.  I have come so far in embracing and actually liking what makes me unique and stand out, whether those characteristics are widely accepted or not.  I love encouraging and empowering others in their own self expression too.  Discover who your are apart from people's expectations and stereotypes and embrace it!  There is only one you with your personality, gift mix, style, and thought process, and the people around you desperately need what you, and only you, have to offer.  

Have a lovely week.

xx

Photos by Jenna Magill

Kimono: Hello Darlings

Satchel: Rebecca Minkoff "Perry"

Tee: American Eagle Outfitters (similar here)

Shorts: American Eagle Outfitters

Sandals: Via Spiga (similar here)

Sunglasses: Warby Parker (similar here)

Lip color: MAC "Pleasant" Lip Pencil

Overalls

Photos by Jenna Magill

Overalls: American Eagle Outfitters

Cross body: Rebecca Minkoff " Mini Elle"

Sandals: Everlane

Lipstick: "Relentlessly Red" by MAC

Sunglasses: Warby Parker

Brave & Free.

Happy 4th!

In honor of this day being about independence and breaking free, I thought it'd be fun to talk about the top 4 things that have given me freedom in my life.  Some may seem obvious, but they are life changing!

1.  Forgiveness.  

Take the time to think about anything you're holding against someone else and let it go.  Unforgiveness holds you back and poisons you inside.  What you focus on shapes your life.  Forgiving doesn't justify someone's actions against you.  It is the conscious choice to let go of your need to see someone punished for what they've done, to genuinely wish them the best and remember that you've hurt people too and need grace for your life as well.  You may need to forgive yourself.  Many of us retain regrets that hold us back.

2.  Be thankful.

I dare you to think of 10 things you're thankful for every morning for the next week and see how it affects your mood, thoughts and actions.  We don't always realize how much time we spend pouring over the lack in our lives, what we don't have and what we want to change.  Pondering what we do have and what we love is extremely freeing.

3.  Remembering our true identity.

There are countless things many of us believe about ourselves that simply aren't true.  That negative self-talk needs to be called out and kicked to the curb!  Ask the 3 people closest to you (not your family) to tell you what they think of when they think of you.  What do they see as your strengths?  The awesome traits you're known for?  The best things they see in you that you may not recognize in yourself or even realize you're good at?  Write down what they say and actually dare to believe it.  Embrace it.  Read it every day and remember your true identity and how amazing you are.

4.  Stop hiding.

Secrets, manipulation, lies and deceptions are all destroyers of your freedom.  Live your life in the open with those you love.  Let them see your good, bad and ugly.  Be courageous and vulnerable, brave and honest about yourself and give your friends and family the chance to love all of you.  It will set you free.

I hope you enjoy my posts and have a wonderful holiday.  Thanks for reading!

xx

Photos by Joey Brooks

Dress: Mango

Leather jacket: Zara (similar here and here)

Heels: Rebecca Minkoff Mabel

Cross body: Coach (similar here)