This & That

Oh Florida friends, I’ve been thinking about you all weekend!  I’ve seen you evacuating your homes and I remember from Hurricane Rita how painful that can be with the gas shortages and the crazy amount of traffic.  I’ve been watching the news like crazy and I’ve heard from some of you this weekend.  I know how scary this is, so please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you!  And I can’t believe it’s been 16 years since September 11.  It still feels like it happened yesterday because it’s a day that is forever etched in our hearts and we all know exactly what we were doing the moment of the attack on our great country.  It’s a tragedy I know we’ll never forget and there were so many lives taken and changed forever.  My heart goes out to you on this very special day.

My head has been all over the place, so I figured today would be the perfect time to share a This & That post with you.  This one is kind of a jumble of our weekend, includes lots of sale goodies and things for fall, and answers about the new charcoal toothpaste y’all have been asking me about.  Yes, it works!

Surprisingly, our weather has been glorious lately and after all the rain we’ve had, it’s been so nice to get outside for a change.  I took the kids to the waterfall at Transco Tower this weekend and let them run around all giddy and excited. It’s so fun watching Jordan experience all these firsts.  She’s a bit of a daredevil and was so excited to be near the water and I was a bit overwhelmed chasing her so she didn’t fall in!

striped tee skinny cargo pants

Skinny Cargo Pants 24P ⋅ Top XXS (but could’ve went w XS) ⋅ Pink Sneakers (size down 1/2)  ⋅ Pink Bag ⋅ Necklace

I’m still all about the skinny cargo pants I got at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale for being cute and comfy when running around with the kids.  I was raving about them here because they’re on sale 40% off, which makes them under $50!  These are soft and stretchy and also have a nice weight to them. They run a little big and I sized down from 25P to 24P.  You can see the size 25P on me here, but I ended up exchanging them for the 24P.

Remember when I took this pregnancy pic at the waterfall almost two years ago?  It’s so surreal to be back in that same exact spot, but holding her in my arms this time!

waterfall

Love these babes so very much!

transco tower waterfall

I got all anxious to pull out my booties, but then changed into my pink sneaks when we decided to head to the park.

stripe top skinny cargo pants booties

Skinny Cargo Pants 24P ⋅ Top XXS (but could’ve went w XS) ⋅ Pink Sneakers (size down 1/2)  ⋅ Pink Bag

I have the last year’s version of this bootie in brown and black and they are so stylish with the deep V ankle cut-out and super comfortable.  This style Vince Camuto bootie fit my feet like a glove and have extra cushion inside.  I wore mine so much last year with everything from jeans and cargos to jean short and dresses and they’re still going strong, which is why I didn’t upgrade to the new pair (although that whip stitching is pretty fierce!).

I saw these Lucky brand booties on sale 40% off now ($71) and they are super cute too with a petite v front ankle cut and sling back.  That contrast of perforated and solid material is cool too.  They’ve gotten tons of great reviews for style and comfort, and most women said they fit TTS, but two said they run small.

lucky brand booties

Lucky brand booties

Speaking of shoes, I’m still not-so patiently waiting for my grey Maddy mule and metallic Capri mule to arrive, did you order them? If so, what do you think?  

mule Collage

But did you see that Jordan got her rainboots?! She is too cute in them and I can’t believe I waited so long to get her a pair.

Mom’s Birthday

This weekend was my beautiful Mom’s bday.  She’s truly the best person I know, such a giver and always thinking of herself last.  I actually wish she wouldn’t do that, but she truly puts everyone else’s needs/feelings above her own.  And she’s the best grandma ever.  I admire how present she is with the kids and her knack for knowing what they will enjoy.  She’s so shy that she’ll never let me share her pic, but I can promise you, we love having her here during the week and my kids are blessed to get to grow up with grandma here so often!  Did I ever tell you that she had me at 17? I can’t even imagine having a baby that young, but she’s always been the best mom from day 1!

On Friday, we ran around and went to lunch and did a little shopping . . .

lilac tank

Cami ⋅ Jeans ⋅ Slides ⋅ Strapless Bra ⋅ Adjustable Y Necklace 

I got this cami recently and love this soft pretty color, the double layering and that it has adjustable shoulder straps.  Very feminine and pretty! It’ll be gorgeous with a white cardigan layered over it soon!

On Sunday, the family got together and we took her out for Mexican and margaritas – her fave!  This little shift chambray dress is amazing!  It’s a baby doll style and seriously adorable on!  It’s on the shorter side, but not at all revealing up top with the short sleeves and high neckline, so showing off a little leg is fine!  It’s actually longer in the back so you won’t worry about flashing!  It’s on sale 40% off, but there’s only a few sizes left!

chambray dress

Jean Dress 0 ⋅ Similar Mule ⋅ WatchNecklace ⋅ Suede Clutch ⋅ Similar Earrings Bracelet

I tried to get a closer up pic of the necklace, but now I see my hair in kinda in the way.  Do you remember when I told you about Starfish Project? They are a non-profit organization with a social enterprise that cares for women coming out of human trafficking and exploitation. They sell gorgeous jewelry to support their endeavors and that’s where this gorgeous gold chain statement necklace is from.

necklace

Necklace  ⋅ Similar Earrings Pink Lips ‘pink plaid’

Goodies

If you missed some things during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, they seriously sold out in a hot minute- #grrr, but there’s good news!  They are back and marked down 40%.  It’s kinda hard to be shopping for Fall in July anyway, but now that it’s September and we’re nearly halfway to October, I’m definitely ready for all the Fall things!

This stripe off shoulder sweater is one of my faves and I like it more as a one-shoulder look.

off shoulder stripe sweater

For a wear to work option, this ruffle sleeve top is absolutely darling on.  It might not look like much on the hanger, but the way it’s cut with the ruching on one side and the sweet bell sleeves puts it over the top. It’s silky soft too and especially perfect for those days when you don’t want anything body conscious.

print blouse

Ruffle Sleeve Top XS

One of the first things I tried on and fell in love with was this cowl neck sweater tank and it’s also 40% off now.  How cute is it with those blush pink sneaks?! I’m also smitten with these boyfriend jeans that came home with me. As much as I love my skinnies, a good boyfriend jean is a must have! They are super comfortable and I like that this pair isn’t too baggy, but still shows your shape. I’ve come to know and love this brand and I’m so happy they come in petite, no alterations needed!

pink tank sweater

Cowl Neck Sweater Tank (XSP) ⋅ Boyfriend Jeans 0P ⋅ Sneakers (size down 1) ⋅ Pendant Necklace

I was looking for an inexpensive alternative to the Kendra Scott pendant necklace and found this beauty for only $28!  It’s not quite as long as the KS pendant (4 inches shorter), but the tassel detail is a fun twist.

tassel necklace

Necklace

And for the slip on sneakers, I wasn’t sure what to expect from Caslon sneakers.  Yes, I love their petite jeans and tops, but I’ve never tried shoes from them before.  I have to say, I really like these, they are comfortable and the quality is good.  But my normal size 6.5 in sneakers was a too big, even with my thin no-show socks, so I’d need to size down to 5.5.  The 6 was a little too big, so I’m saying size down a whole size from your regular sneaker size.

blush pink slip on sneakers

Slip on Sneakers (size down 1/2)

This keyhole dress wasn’t part of the NSale, but y’all loved it when I shared it with you in the latest Dressing Room post, and it’s on sale + an extra 60% off now! . It’s classy enough for work with its modest keyhole cutout, but sassy enough for after-work cocktails. And the fabric is a nice weight that’s extra slimming. If you’ve got great shoulders, and who doesn’t?!, this dress will really show them off!  It’s racerback in the back though, so you’ll need to wear a strapless bra with it!

keyhole dress

Keyhole Dress 00P

And I’ve heard such amazing things about this little v-neck shift dress from my friend Cassie and it’s gotten rave reviews, so I just ordered it for myself to see how it fits a petite gal.   It looks amazing on her, so fingers crossed it works for us shorties too!  I can already see how versatile it will be by changing up your shoes, jewelry, and with the addition of a jacket.  It comes in several colors too for only $46!

crepe shift dress

One of my all-time favorite Fall sweaters – the button back sweater is back in red, black and grey (just ordered!).  It’s so flattering on and it’s long enough to wear with leggings!

button back sweater yellow

Button Back Sweater ⋅ Plaid Scarf 

I fell hard for this sweet tie sleeve sweatshirt that I had to have it in #stripes! I’m even sure which color I like it best in, but it also comes in lots more.  It’s a boxier shape top with 3/4 sleeves, so if you want it more fitted, size down.  I went with regular XS so if it shrinks, it won’t be too small.

stripe sweatshirt

Tie Sleeve Sweatshirt XS

These amazing joggers that sold out in a hot minute are back and in stock in all sizes, including Plus Size!  I just ordered the black in XXS.  I’m wear XS in the olive green, but I think the XXS will fit my petite frame even better.  I’ll keep you posted! I love them so much because they are like pajama pants, but acceptable to wear out in public! The waist has a wide elastic band, and the pockets zip closed.  And to see how to hide your laces in the pink sneakers, see the instructions here.

green joggers

Joggers XS · U-Neck Tank US4 · Pink Sneakers (size down 1/2) · Fave Jean Jacket XS · Pink Bag · Blue Aviators · Bar Necklace

Zella black joggers

Pajamas

We take our pajamas very seriously around here!  James literally lives in his and Jordan’s feather pair is too adorable for words.  The only problem is she looks too much like a big girl in them! #stoptime

Jordan breakfast

Jordan’s PJ’s

I shared this new pants pajama set in September Loves and y’all liked it as much as I do.  #youaremypeople  This pair is nice and lightweight and extremely soft.  I like the contrasting trim and relaxed fit.  Perfect for cooler nights!

pjs.1

Pajamas XS

Cozy Cardi

boys pajamas

Boy’s Pajamas 50% off

The boys also take their football very seriously!  This time of year it’s on nonstop, but I could take it or leave it.  I do enjoy going to the game, but you won’t find me sitting around watching from beginning to end. Which is why I splurged on this sweatshirt that I plan to wear from now til eternity!

here for halftime sweatshirt

Sweatshirt 0 ⋅  Boyfriend Jeans 0P ⋅ Pink Sneakers (size down 1/2)

Transitioning to Fall Wardrobe

I know we’re all itching to pull out the scarves and cardigans and I’ll have a transitioning to fall post for you soon!  I love this time of year when you get to start layering pieces and wearing boots and booties.

This lightweight cardi that is similar to the old one I’m wearing here is perfect for that purpose.  It’s still thin enough that you won’t be dying in warmer temps, but you’ll still get that layered effect. It comes in tons of colors, including black/white stripe with a hi/low hem.

lightweight cardigan and dress

similar Cardigan ⋅ Dress ⋅ Adjustable Y Necklace 

This is another great lightweight sweater cardigan with the cutest ruffle hem.  It’s nice and slim fitting through the waist with a darling ruffle at the end.  It looks great buttoned or unbuttoned, and dresses up well with a pair of heels!

ruffle hem cardigan

Ruffle Hem Cardigan XXS ⋅ V-Neck Tee XXS⋅  Skinny Crop Jeans 25P ⋅  Similar Crop Jeans $59 ⋅  Perfect T-Shirt Bra ⋅ Necklace | Blue Aviators | Pink Bag

That gingham wrap top I showed you in September Loves arrived and I super love it!

gingham wrap top

Gingham Wrap Top ⋅ Skinny Jeans ⋅ Nude Heels

See how flattering the back is with the nipped in waist and longer length?!  Adore!!

gingham wrap top front and back

Whiter Teeth at Home

I’ve gotten tons of questions about the charcoal toothpaste I shared on Stories.  I bought this on the recommendation of my friend Angela that I traveled to New Orleans with.  She has the whitest teeth and when I complimented her on them, she said she’d been using this toothpaste and it had whitened her teeth at home, without having to pay for expensive professional whitening at the dentist’s office.

I have some surface stains too from #coffee #tea, so I gave it a try.  It really works.  You get your toothbrush wet (I bought a black one), then dip it in the charcoal powder, and brush for 1-2 minutes.  I’ve done it about twice a week for the last few weeks and my teeth are whiter.  It doesn’t taste like anything, but you can buy it flavored.  It is totally weird seeing your teeth look black while you’re brushing though- like something from Halloween.  And afterward, I noticed that some of the fine charcoal powder would still be in my gums, so I’d have to floss, but I guess that’s a good thing.

charcoal toothpaste

Charcoal Toothpaste ⋅ Black Toothbrush

Christmas, say What?!

September always means I need to think about our Christmas cards.  I was so behind last year, that I just snapped a few pics of James and Jordan in their Christmas pajamas, but my photo wasn’t that good.  This year, I want to get Tisha to take some pics so I know I need to get planning soon!

Which got me thinking about Christmas gifts.  I’ve actually started a gift stash in my closet for my nieces and nephew and even have a few gifts for my sister-in-laws!  I’m feeling really good about being ahead of the game this year.

One thing is for sure.  The best gift will be this cozy cardigan.  I’ve already bought my Mom one, 3 more for my best girlfriends for Christmas, and one for my sis-n-law’s birthday!  It’s literally the coziest thing you will put on your body and I can’t believe it took me until this year to get one for myself.  They seriously need to make them in kids sizes because half the time, I’ll wake up to find James already wearing mine and laughing because he stole it from me!

Are you already looking forward to Christmas?! #noshame!

cozi cardigan jean shorts

Cozy Cardigan ⋅ Jean Shorts (size down) ⋅ Similar V-Neck Pocket Tee

Rise & Shine Club

I’ve been having trouble getting back into my ‘wake up early groove’ but I ran this weekend, and it felt so good!  This sports bra is the best for running, especially if you have a larger chest.

The awesome thing about this sports bra is 1) it’s sized according to your bra size with hook and eye closures in the back so you can get a very accurate and comfortable fit.  I find they run TTS.  I wear a 34D bra, and I buy 34D in this sports bra. 2) The shoulder straps are thicker and padded so they don’t cut into your shoulders or hurt while you’re wearing it. And they are adjustable with velcro, so you can lengthen them or shorten as necessary.

Before I got this bra, I used to double up sports bras when I would run, but I hated it because I always felt constricted in my chest and like I couldn’t breath as easily.  Once I found this it was like the heavens opened!  Running is a breeze now and I only have to wear one bra!

best running sports bra

Sports Bra

But, my point of sharing this workout pic with you was to hold myself accountable for starting to wake up early again, starting tomorrow!  I’m gonna snap a pic and share it on Stories when I wake up and if you want to send me your early morning pic, I’d love to see!  I’ll use #RiseandShineClub  Hope to see you there!  I’ll do it Monday, Wednesday and Friday this week!

Have a great week, friends!

 

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Meet Megan

Hi! I’m Megan, mom to a thoughtful teenager and spunky young girl. We call Houston home and recently moved into our dream home. I traded my lawyer hat to become a full-time blogger in 2010. I love sharing my passion for affordable fashion, home decor, organization, & fitness to help inspire you to take care of you!

15 Comments

  1. What brand are your wireless headphones? Do they stay put?
    I love your blog! I am the same size as you and I have benefitted a ton from your fashion advice. I also enjoy your fitness, health, and nutrition posts. Your content is really fun to read and I find myself looking forward to new posts.

    1. I love hearing that, thank you! I have the Apple earbuds and they are awesome! They do stay put, the only problem is that you have to keep them charged and I hate when I go to run and they are dead!

  2. Oh my goodness I had forgotten how blonde you were. Love the darker color on you so much better. Brings out your peaches and cream skin.

  3. You are going to have to post the names of your nail polish in the future. I see two colors on today’s post that I love!
    And I agree with the comment on the color of your hair. I like it much better now!

  4. Hey, first I want to say, I love your blog!

    I’m really curious about the teeth whitening active charcoal. Do you have before and after pictures that we could see and how often did you use it before you saw a difference?

    1. Thanks so much for the compliment Allie. I didn’t take before pics, but maybe I could compare older pics on my blog where my teeth are showing. I saw a difference the first time!

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