HOW I WENT FROM LAWYER TO BLOGGER | PART 1

Thank you to Express and ShopStyle for sponsoring today’s post.

When Jordan started preschool this year and I shared how emotional it was for me, many of you sent me the sweetest messages saying you’ve been following me since I was pregnant with her and can’t believe how time has flown!  I’m with you- it goes so very fast!  But did you know that I’ve been blogging since my son James was just 4 months old?  He’s nine now!  My 10 year blogging anniversary was this summer!

So many of you have been with me (and James!) from the very beginning and I’m so very grateful for you!  Your support and encouragement through the years is why I still love blogging today!

I’ve mentioned it over the years, but never written a full post about how I went from full-time lawyer to blogger.  As I started writing about this journey, the post got longer and longer to the point where I felt like I needed to cut big chunks out of it.  On Stories, y’all said you wanted the whole story, and recommended that I split the post into two or a series, so here we go!

This is Part 1, how I became a lawyer.  Part 2 will be how I went from lawyer to blogger.  I hope you enjoy hearing about my background.  It felt incredibly vulnerable to share it so publicly.  Also, I hope you get something more from it that just my story. I hope you realize how much you are capable of and how much of an impact you can have in someone else’s life.

HOW I BECAME A LAWYER

I grew up with very loving parents, who happened to be kids themselves.  My parents had me when they were 17 and so in a way, we grew up together. As a baby I stayed home with my Grandma Nola while my mom was getting her GED and working and my Dad was working.

I’m not sure I ever mentioned this before, but my Grandma Nola isn’t actually a blood relative.  She’s a close family friend that took us under her wing to help raise me while my parents tried to earn a living and support our family.  She was close with my Mom’s father, and that’s how we knew her.

Grandma Nola basically adopted me and my parents into her family and I’ve been blessed to have an entire set of aunts, uncles and cousins who are my family, but not by birth.

To this day, Grandma Nola is the wisest woman I’ve known and, though she has now gone to be with the Lord, her influence lives on inside me.  She’s the one who always encouraged me to Take Care of You.

Since my Dad went straight to work and my mom stuck with her high school education, we struggled a lot financially. My parents worked hard, but there was so much stress and lots of fighting over money. 

Looking back, that shaped me in that I knew I didn’t want to have that same experience in my adult life. I was determined to be financially secure and independent.  Not because I wanted expensive things, just so that I felt safe and so that money wouldn’t be the source of so much heartache.

work outfit - plaid blazer and black pants

Blazer CamisolePants

HIGH SCHOOL YEARS

As soon as I could work, I got a job and started saving my money.  Shout out to Dandy’s Car Wash, where I worked washing cars after school when I was a freshman in high school!  Then, TJ Maxx, a flower shop, a dental office, and Famous Footwear – all while I was in high school.

We moved from Ohio to Texas before my senior year of high school.  My parents financial life improved, but there were high highs and low lows.  My Dad was an entrepreneur, so sometimes business was doing well, and sometimes not so much.

I felt certain that higher education was the way for me to have a brighter future and financial freedom.  Plus, I had always gotten good grades in school and I enjoyed it.

After high school, I went and got a job as a waitress at Hooters because my cousin was working there and I heard you could make over $100 in tips a day. $100!  That was so much money to me then and I think for most people right out of high school.  Fun fact: My cousin went on to become Miss USA in 1998!

I knew I had to send myself to college since there was no money for that, so I started working, taking one semester off so I could save up.  I saved most of my tips so I could use them for tuition.

And, guess what?!  I actually loved working there!  The other girls that worked there were like a sorority to me and the regular customers were awesome.  I especially remember the couples and families that used to eat there and we became good friends.  And I still like their wings! 😉

work outfit - plaid blazer and black pants

WORKING THROUGH COLLEGE

The next semester, I enrolled at University of Houston, met a girl in my math class, and we moved in together so that I wouldn’t have to drive so far to school.  I had been commuting from my parents house to class- a good 45 minute drive, then driving 30 minutes to work.  It was too much, especially when I had class at 8am.

So, now I had bills to pay, and college.  I needed to earn more money, so I started bartending on the weekends and there you could make $250 on a good night! 

I didn’t have much direction while I was going to school.  Originally, I majored in broadcast journalism, but with working and going to school, and the occasional partying, it was taking forever to earn all my credits.  

MEETING MY MENTOR

I was still working at the restaurant while trying to get through school and on a particularly busy evening, an older gentlemen came in and sat at the counter where I was working behind the bar.  He was short and stocky, wearing a grey suit and tie. I was always friendly with my customers and knew all of them very well, but I’d never seen him before.

As I waited on each customer, I started making conversation with this particular customer named Dennis.  He casually asked me what I really wanted to do when I ‘grew up’ and I immediately said that I wanted to be a lawyer.  It was the first time I ever voiced that out loud.  Up until then, it had kind of been brewing quietly inside. 

I’m not sure what gave me the confidence to say it or even acknowledge it.  Up until then, I always told myself that that could never happen for me.  Going to law school was for people way smarter than me and with a family to support them through it.  I never felt like I had the brains for law school or that I even belonged there. 

There was no one in my family other than my Grandma Nola who had even gone to college, let alone law school.  

Turns out, Dennis was a lawyer. 

He started coming in regularly, planting seeds about how I really should pursue that goal of becoming a lawyer.  He’d say, “look how you run this bar, how good you are with people, how you know what to say to whom.  Those are the skills of a good lawyer.”

Over time, we came to be friends and, like my Grandma Nola, he gave me so much wise advice and encouraged me to go for it.  He would say, “you have a tremendous talent, you’re smart, you’re ambitious.  You have what it takes.”  

Eventually, seeing that I was kind of floundering around, not making much progress, he was quite frank with me saying, ‘Megan, you’ve got to get out of these bars, finish college, and apply to law school.”

Up until then, I had just been taking classes with no graduation date in sight.  I finally decided he was right.  His words of encouragement took route in my heart and I thought, “Why can’t I become a lawyer?  Maybe I can do it. Maybe I should at least try.” 

I went to my school counselor and found out I had almost all the credits I needed to graduate with a degree in corporate communication with a minor in psychology.  I put my nose to the grindstone and took the final classes I needed to graduate.

Right before I graduated, I got a call from one of my friends who waitressed with me.  “Did you hear about Dennis?”, she asked.

“No.” I replied.

“He died.”  I started bawling my eyes out.  It was such a shock, I didn’t even know he was sick or maybe he wasn’t and I just couldn’t believe he was gone so suddenly.  I didn’t even get to say goodbye.  Had I ever really thanked him for everything he’d done in my life so far?  

How could I do this without him?  How could I get through law school without his encouragement?  I felt super alone and scared at that time in my life. 

But I kept going.

work outfit - plaid blazer and black pants

Blazer CamisolePants

APPLYING TO LAW SCHOOL

Applying to law school is kind of an ordeal.  There’s tons of paperwork you have to gather and fill out and you have to write a statement about why you want to go to law school.

As I sat alone writing my paper over many days, I thought about Dennis and how proud he would have been that I was finally taking that leap.  I wanted to thank him.  I wrote my paper about his influence on my life.

Here was a man that took a 100% platonic interest in a young girl that really didn’t have the best direction in her life.  He helped lead her down a path that would make her life better.  Without asking of anything in return. 

He spent Saturday afternoons taking me to the law library where I saw other young people studying and told me, “that should be you.”

He allowed me to go to court with him several times and always said, “you’re gonna be great at this.” 

Isn’t it amazing how a single person can impact your life so greatly?  Maybe you have a Dennis or Grandma Nola in your life or you ARE them for someone else.  Those encouraging words can mean so much.  Maybe that’s why I love having a college intern working with me during the summer.  

I applied to three schools and got two rejection letters.  When the letter came saying I had been accepted to law school, I wanted to share that letter with Dennis so bad. 

I wanted him to know that we had made it that far.  I started law school in 2001 and graduated in 2004.  I was 29.  

It took three years, many student loans and tons of perseverance to finish, but I always told myself, the time was going to pass anyway.  I still think of that today whenever I have a goal that’s months or years away.

The time is going to pass anyway, wouldn’t it be better to have accomplished something hard along the way?

work outfit - plaid blazer and black pants

As a young lawyer, fresh out of law school without any professional clothes (we didn’t wear suits at Hooters or the bar where I worked;), I bought so many of my work wear outfits from Express.

I loved wearing their tailored blouses because they were femininely cut and didn’t look so boyish. Also, they always had fun colors and patterns so my wardrobe didn’t look boring.

This outfit is an example of something I could definitely wear to the office and feel professional in, yet still express my style.

work outfit - plaid blazer and black pants

Blazer CamisolePants

The herringbone blazer is always a classic work piece, but I love how this one has a pop of color with the blue.  It has a notched collar and one button, with welt pockets.  The shoulders are slightly padded, but just enough to give it some structure, not overdone.

The blazer is also fully lined and machine washable!

Blazer Fit : I’m wearing size 0

work outfit - plaid blazer and black pants

Blazer CamisolePants

Express slacks were another go to because they were professional, great quality and stylish cut. I also always appreciated that they come in short sizes because I am petite and didn’t want to have to take my pants to get altered. With these, they fit right off the rack.

This particular pair is so, so good! It’s the Mid Rise Barely Boot Columnist Pant.  The ‘barely boot’ is a flattering cut because they elongate your leg line, as opposed to a skinny cut. The quality is also there with 450 positive reviews. 

Pants Fit : I’m wearing 0Short and they also come in, regular, long and petite.  You’ll have the most selection online.  

The black is a wardrobe staple, but they also come in navy, wine and brown- all lovely colors for Fall.

work outfit - plaid blazer and black pants

♥ SHOP THIS OUTFIT BY CLICKING THE PICTURES BELOW ♥

BLOG LIFE

I had fun switching up this look to represent blog life! Obviously, as a blogger you are working at home almost all day and if you wanted to, you could stay in pajamas! I did that for a long time but I always feel better when I get dressed and take time to do my hair and make up.

I’ve gotten really good at a five minute face and that makes me feel better and more productive the whole day.

Jeans and cami with neon shoes and bag

CamisoleJeans

I’m wearing the same camisole as above, but when you take the jacket off, it becomes a fun date night or casual look.

Jeans and cami with neon shoes and bag

And three cheers for these jeans!  They are a mid rise with raw hem and I love that they are ankle length.  Even so, you can still get them in short, regular, long or petite.

Jeans Fit : I’m wearing size 2 Short (I sized up one)

How fun are these earrings?!  The colors are nice and bold and they’re really lightweight.

Earrings

♥ SHOP THIS OUTFIT BY CLICKING THE PICTURES BELOW ♥

I hope you enjoyed this more personal post and got to learn more about my background.  Are you still interested in hearing Part 2- how I went from lawyer to blogger?  Let me know in the comments, along with any specific questions you have about blogging.   

And thank you so very much for being here with me throughout the years.  It truly means so much!

Have a great day! 

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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!

154 Comments

  1. Reading about Denis’s impact on your life made me tear up! It’s ama I gotta that the Lord puts people in our lives exactly when we need them and how amazing that he recognized that calling too! I loved this post and can’t wait to hear part 2!

  2. YES, I really enjoyed this post!!! I was so into your story, wanting to hear more, then it turned to clothes. I was all, “Where’s the rest of the story?!?!” HAHAHAHA!!!!! I would LOVE to hear the rest of your story. I have been reading since before you got pregnant w/ Jordan & I didn’t realize you were a lawyer before blogging. Thank you for sharing such a personal post.

  3. Oh my gosh, I have tears in my eyes! Thank you for sharing such a huge part of your life with us. I just started following your blog recently. I’m so glad I found you!

  4. More story please! You are incredible and so inspiring! Can’t wait to hear the rest. Love the blazer, too.

  5. I started reading your blog when you were pregnant with Jordan. Thank you for sharing your story. Can’t wait to read Part 2!

  6. LOVE these kinds of posts! Can’t wait for the next part. You are very inspiring (and always look great 🙂

  7. I worked at Hooters too! Now I am a senior litigation paralegal. To this day, I tell everyone that Hooters was the best job I ever had. I am not in touch with very many people from high school, however, I still close with the majority of my friends from Hooters! We have reunions every couple of years and it’s such a blast. We call ourselves the Sisterhood of the Orange Shorts! I don’t think people that haven’t worked at Hooters understand how the staff at Hooters really feel like family. Some of the regulars really do become good friends, who take an interest in your life for no other reason than to see you succeed and maybe help you along the way. I loved this story, can’t wait for part 2!

  8. Yes! We NEED part 2 ?. I got tears in my eyes when you said Dennis died. My Dad and sister were both lawyers and I thought about being one too. Thanks for sharing your journey! And I love Express! I’ve been wearing their clothes since high school.

  9. I think I’ve been with you for about 8 of those 10 years! It was your fashion that first appealed to me, and your personality that kept me coming back (along with your fashion)! I’ve seen you grow as a blogger, and have seen you go through some life changes with faith and grace! I truly appreciate everything you do to help us with our choices, and I look forward to seeing what’s next!! So YES, I would love to read Part 2!!
    Well done Megan! You can breath now 😉

  10. What an amazing post!! Thank you so much for sharing your story ~ and we definitely need Part 2! 🙂 Dennis and your grandma sound like incredible blessings in your life! I know you have made them both so very proud and I believe they still watch over you from Heaven! Have a wonderful day!

  11. Fantastic post, you have such an interesting story and so motivational – definitely had a few tears in my eyes ☺️ Looking forward to part 2

  12. I loved this post! What a great story to tell. I’m excited to read part 2 as well. This is very inspirational on so many levels.

    1. Yep, I still can’t believe I have a 3 year old when most people my age have kids in high school! But, I like to think she keeps me young!

  13. I have been reading your blog for years and years and had no idea. I can’t wait to read part 2 and learn more about your history, etc. Do you have other siblings? I find that I became more and more curious as I was reading this about your parents and family. Thanks for opening yourself up to us!

  14. One of my favorite posts you’ve ever written! I have just recently started mentoring a young girl. I wish someone was mentoring my girls. And while that has happened yet, I thought “well, why can’t I mentor someone?” If we all poured into someone’s life, the world would be a better place.

  15. Loved this post so much. I knew you used to be a lawyer and also worked at hooters but never knew about Dennis. How did he die, btw? That part was soooo sad but what a great legacy to his memory you are. Can’t wait for part 2.

    You were the first blogger I ever followed and have been with you since a while before Jordan. My youngest son is a few months younger than James (and I had him at 42 years old), I’m into health and fitness, and though I’m 5’4 (not super petite like you), I have an athletic build like you and can just relate to you in so many ways.

    Thanks so much for all that you do, Megan

    1. I never knew how he died. I went to his funeral, but they never said. It was such a sudden shock. I still wish he was here for his wise guidance sometimes.

  16. You had me crying and cheering for your 20 something year old self. These seasons of life shaping who we are today and remind us we can do hard things. Can’t wait to read more- thanks for sharing. My children are those struggling 20 somethings trying to find their way. I love how you share makeup, hair stuff & clothes that make life fun but also the tough conversations that we can also relate to. We are all out here doing the beet we can.

    1. It took me so long to get through college because I was working the whole time and paid as I went- no student loans for undergrad. Your kids are blessed to have you!

  17. Love getting to know more about you! I’ve been following you since 2011 when I randomly found you while googling kitchen ideas when we were building our house! I’m so glad I did! I really appreciate the consistency and thoughtfulness you have with what you post.

  18. Loved, loved reading your story! What a journey you have had, full of perseverance and grit. I cannot wait to hear the rest. You are setting a great example for James and Jordan. Keep it up Mama!!

  19. Thanks so much for sharing your story! Everyone has one and can not wait to hear part 2. I have been following you for 8 years now and you are a blessing!

  20. Your story about being inspired is inspiring to me. I love your dedication to working hard and making things happen for yourself!

  21. Awesome, awesome post! Thank you for sharing your story. Those of us who regularly read and follow you are always cheering you on but I hope this reaches some new people too. We all need that encouragement!

  22. Thank you for sharing some of your story and path in life! I really enjoy your blog and particularly love your posts about being productive and pursuing joy in life. It seems as though blogging has been a good way to achieve many of your goals and to share positive things with others. I’m looking forward to reading part 2!

  23. Please HURRY and post part 2. I didn’t want your story to end when it did.

    Please keep up your law credentials. When your children are grown, who knows, you might want to return to a small office-or large.. You would be great at family law or anything you put your mind to.

  24. You’re good at what you do now, but maybe when the kids are older you can find time to get back in to legal work. The law needs more voices like yours; the system benefits from hearing voices that aren’t what it traditionally hears.

  25. Thanks for sharing your inspirational story! The world needs more people like Dennis. Yes, would love to read part 2!

  26. I’ve been following you for years now, since coming across a meal-prep recipe of yours (tex mex to go, FYI, still love it). I had no idea you were a lawyer and absolutely loved reading your story. I’m also a lawyer but still wondering what I want to do when I ‘grow up’ so I’m very much looking forward to part 2 and your transition out of law. Thanks so much for sharing!

  27. Really, really loved this post! I am a long time reader, and also fellow lawyer! I personally really connected to some of the things you spoke about and thank you for sharing your struggles and journey. Everyone has self-doubt and I love that you found mentors and are passing that role on with your interns. Can’t wait for part 2!

  28. I love this so much, I also had tears in my eyes!! Thank you for sharing your story, you are an inspiration. I call your connection to Dennis serendipity…and I’m a firm believer! I also love blogs and there’s several I’ve been reading since almost the beginning and I’m thrilled that you and others are doing this as full time jobs, simply amazing!

  29. I loved this post and cannot wait for Part 2! I also worked at Hooters and am now a practicing attorney with two young kids. I have been following your blog for several years, and I love your honesty and optimism.

  30. Thank you so much for this post! I’ve followed your blog for some time, but I didn’t know your background. What an inspiration! Yes, the time will pass anyway, so may as well move toward a goal! I was so moved about how Dennis made a difference in your life. Thank you for sharing!!

  31. Hi Megan,

    I love learning more about you. And, I must thank you for making me remember Express. In the 90’s they had the BEST clothes, and you are exactly right — perfect young professional choices. I kind of forgot about them, and I guess thought they were “too young” for me anymore (Im a few years older then you)! Im going to go online at lunch today and see what I can find!!

    Cant wait to hear the rest of your story! 🙂

  32. Hi Megan, What a beautiful post. One to share with Jordan as she gets older. The message . . . have faith, believe in yourself, work hard, and surround yourself with Godly people who can pour into you. Thanks for inspiring us all!

  33. Yes, for part 2! I loved hearing more about your family and parents – it just brings everything together! It would be interesting to here more about your time as a lawyer.

  34. What a great story! How I wish Dennis had been around to see you graduate law school and become a lawyer! It’s so refreshing to read about someone who worked really hard to get where they are in life rather than just having everything handed to them. You should be so proud of yourself.
    I love hearing people’s career change stories, and I find it so inspirational as one day I hope to leave my career as a CPA/Auditor and pursue something more fulfilling.
    Looking forward to Part 2!

  35. And this is why we should take an interest in young people. Sometimes all they need is encouragement and someone who genuinely cares. Kind of meet them where they are. Really enjoyed the post. Thank you for sharing.

  36. What an amazing story! I’ve been reading your blog since your first bikini competition and I’ve enjoyed reading about you and your precious kids.

    Those downtown camis are amazing! I have four and they are very versatile! Also, that jacket is adorable!

  37. Beautiful !!! And BRAVO?????. It only takes one person to change your life. Dennis was it for you. May he rest in peace. I firmly believe he is watching over you. I anxiously await part dos… plus more of your life being married..kids and doing it all. I have one question what is your go to when you are not having a good day?. You are always so happy. Can I take what you are taking?. I love all your posts… oh one more how do you earn an income blogging though. Mmmmm

    Have a blessed afternoon
    Maggie

    1. Hi Maggie, I have very down days like anyone and I will be opening up about that in a future post. One thing that helps turn it around for me is writing in a journal or walking/going for a run, or any exercise. I think the combo of the release of endorphins and the physical activity helps so much!

  38. Oh, Megan. I’m one of those who has been around since James was tiny, and I’m still so inspired by you!

    I absolutely loved reading this post. I especially enjoyed reading about Dennis. It seems that most of what we read about is how men have mistreated, manipulated, or even abused women–how refreshing to read about someone who was exactly the opposite! And your Grandma Nola, too–God bless her for the impact she made in your life!

    Please, please, please continue with the series. This is the best thing I’ve read all week!

  39. What a great post! I read it about 6:00 am, but just now able to comment. I was so into the story, then it changed to talk about clothes- super transition! (And really cute outfits). I scrolled down looking for more of the story. We the Jury find you Guilty – of being a clever good writer. ? I can’t wait to read more!

  40. I got emotional reading about Dennis because I totally can relate to having someone come into your life to “guide you along your path” it gives me goosebumps!

    I love Express by the way for my work clothes and I love their jeans they fit me perfectly!

    So I’m a blogger, I’ve been blogging for years and I haven’t quite made it. So I guess my question would be what would you advise for bloggers today to “make it?” I work full time and I’m a wife and mom so sometimes I can’t devote the time I’d like to blogging but when I get the opportunity I work on my blog because it’s my love but I would love to see from your perspective how you took it to the next level if that makes sense.

  41. Thank you for sharing your “back story” with us! Here’s to all the Dennis’ in the world! And to you, for putting in the hard work to make your dream a reality!

  42. If this were a book I’d read it! Yes to part 2. How wonderful you had people who encouraged you to be the best version of yourself.
    My mom let me know by age 5 I was expected to go to college and graduate. I worried about writing term papers all the way through grade school. As it turned out, I never really had to write a term paper… The best gift I ever got was in first grade when I was in the bottom reading group. Mom sat me down every night after dinner and we took turns reading a page each. By the end of first grade I was an excellent reader. By the time I was in third grade, I’d read all the books in the reading room up through sixth grade. And that set me up for the rest of my life, term paper or not!

    1. I would love to hear part 2. My perspective comes from the realm of working in higher education as a career counselor. I think we often has this trajectory of where we are going and what we need to do to get there. Once we are there while we may enjoy the work we do there could be those lingering thoughts of what if I did this.. For some that is a scary jump because of the investment in pursuing the education and the resources it took to get there. At the end of the day and at the end of our lives we ask ourselves did we achieve or do all that we wanted? Which is why my motto has always been do what makes you happy and deal with the obstacles if/when they are present. And you never know those obstacles could have all just been in your head and never evolved into reality.

  43. I’ve been with you since you had James, my daughter and James are the same age. I started following you around the time our kids were both born and babies and I remember you talking about being a lawyer then- it’s fun to hear more of your background story.

  44. Yes please do the blog on the second part. I loved reading this and so inspiring to know that someone that you never thought of would influence you that much.

  45. Can’t wait for part two. Currently, I’m still practicing. It’s very stressful balancing the kids and work. Can’t wait to hear how you made the transition. Love Express, and I still miss the Limited for work clothes.

  46. Yes! I want to hear it all. What a story you have to tell! You have no idea who you may inspire and encourage. Please share all the details!

  47. I have read and loved so many of your posts and this one is so special. Thank you for sharing your story (and Dennis) with us. ♥

  48. I’ve been a reader since James was around 2 and I loved this post. Can’t wait to hear part 2! It truly is amazing how God puts people in your life at the perfect time.

  49. There really are so many good people around and Dennis sounds like an angel on Earth. Goes to show what a true significant difference one person can make. I’m sure he’s looking down on you smiling and so proud of what you accomplished. Bravo to you for persevering all those years and I can’t wait to read part 2!

  50. I love this! My grandmother also used to say “take care a’ you “ ( she was French) lol. There have been times lately that I’ll repeat this in my head if there is something I feel like I should be doing (washing my face before bed, eating better, etc) and since you write about it so often it has brought back those memories.
    I’ve been reading your blog (the first one I ever read) by a friends recommendation, since before James was even in school! From there I started reading several bogs on a regular basis, and thought “I could totally do this” and then after a few years of having “start a blog” on my New Years resolution list, I decided to put all the worries aside and decided this was the year! I work full time as a LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse), so I can’t wait to read part 2! ❤️?

    1. I truly love hearing this Janie-Marie. I think about my Grandma Nola every single day. I’m so blessed to have her in my life. I’m glad you decided to go for it! I was like you- Centsational Girl and Elements of Style were two of my very favorite blogs back in the day and they inspired me to start my own!

  51. I guess I should have added that I did put insecurities aside and hit “launch “ on that blog in March!

  52. I love your story! You are such an amazing and strong woman! You are a wonderful role model for Jordan!
    I did when you told the part of Dennis passing. I truly believe those we meet come into our lives for a reason. He was truly your guiding light!
    I can’t wait to read part two!! ❤️

  53. Thank you for sharing more of your story with us! I am a fellow Texan and have been following along since 2011. Honey We’re Home and Honey We’re Healthy were the first blogs I ever read (still my fav!). I always love your fashion advice and your home is just beautiful but thank you for sharing your family, faith and heart with us! Can’t wait to read Part 2! 🙂

  54. I’ve been reading your blog since you started blogging. I have never left a comment. I am glad you are opening up & that you did a personal post. Keep writing them!

  55. I loved hearing your story! It made me so proud of you! Ha! You’re truly an inspiration. Can’t wait for part two and more! Also, when I worked professionally back in the day, I too loved Express pants! They fit awesome!

  56. Omg! I enjoyed reading this and can’t wait for part two! Thank you for sharing this. It’s amazing how people/words can impact our lives. This would actually be a great movie too ?

  57. Yes to part 2!! I love your heartfelt posts and learning more about you! You’ve been an inspiration to me, especially hearing about all you’ve overcome and your courage and determination. Can’t wait to hear more. Xoxo

  58. I admire your hard work and perseverance. Looking forward to reading part 2. You made a good point that time will pass anyway… so why not accomplish something. I graduated with my MBA at 34 and I remember telling my sister… I won’t finish until I am 34… I am too old to do this and she said “you are going to be 34 anyway”. That really resonated with me and changed my outlook. I can either be. 34 with my MBA completed or 34 without it… of course now that I am 50 I laugh at how silly I was to think I was too old. My MBA has paid off for me big time. So glad I ignored my inner voice and even the negative input from others and achieved my goal.

  59. Loved hearing the background about your journey to becoming a lawyer and would definitely be interested in Part 2! I have been following you for years, you, A Thoughtful Place, and Hi Sugarplum are my favorites! I seriously love all of you:) I dreamt of starting my own blog for years and finally found the courage to do it this year. It’s so hard to put yourself out there! You are inspiring and encouraging, even when you don’t know it!

  60. I have been following your blog for at least 5 years! I actually came across you bc I googled “Jaimie Eason’s workout” and became hooked immediately. I love all your fitness and fashion posts and you inspire my style so much! You seem like the sweetest and most genuine person. You have such an interesting life story! Thank you for sharing.

  61. Amazing! I loved your story and how you kept going to school even though you didn’t finish in four years! There’s so much pressure to finish in four years but not everyone has help with tuition etc. I admired that you didn’t borrow money for school too! Dennis sounds like an angel ❤️ Thank you for sharing

  62. Yes! I would love to read a part 2! This was very interesting and so amazing. Good for you and how wonderful to have your grandma and Dennis. ?

  63. Can’t wait for part 2! Thank you for sharing such a personal story. I’m sure you’ve inspired someone. It’s always good to read stories about people who worked hard to reach their dreams, especially when they had to work even harder to overcome financial obstacles, etc! I’ve been reading your blog for probably 5 years and always enjoy your posts!

  64. Hi Megan. I’ve followed you since before you became pregnant with Jordan. You sure made me cry with this post. Like you, I am an attorney who also has a “Dennis” in her life. I was born and raised in a different country and barely spoke any English when I moved to the US. Then I met “Dennis” who is also an attorney and told him about my dream of becoming an attorney. He believed in me more than I believed in myself. By far, this man has had the most influence in my life and I’m so thankful God put him in my path. Your post made me cry because it brought me back to those years. They were very hard. I put myself through college working two jobs and worked full time through law school. You made me think: have I really told “Dennis” the impact he has had in my life and how grateful I’m to him? I don’t know, but I’ll be sure he knows. Thank you ?

  65. Loved hearing your story Megan. I’ve been following since James was a toddler ?
    I love how grounded you are in this instagram lifestyle where everyone presents this idea of perfection.

    1. Wow! So long ago- he’s really becoming a young man now. Thank you for the compliment, it’s a weird industry I’m in now and it can be easy to lose your way if you don’t stay grounded in what’s important.

  66. Thanks for sharing! As someone who recently left the practice of law after 20 years I am very interested in part II.

  67. I’m a new reader who came across your blog via Pinterest yesterday, and wanted to say hi! I was born near Houston, now in a Dallas suburb although I still visit frequently. I loved this post and the never-give-up attitude… I just got my bachelor’s degree in May at age 42 so I can relate ?
    I’ll continue to follow and appreciate both the shopping and more personal content. You’re a great writer!

    1. Thanks so much for stopping by Lisa! It’s also cool to hear how you found your way here, because often I don’t know! Good for you for going for it! The time will pass anyway, right?!

  68. Definitely a Part 2 is needed. I love your quote Megan and will pass along to my 18 year old daughter as encouragement for the next stage in life … “The time is going to pass anyway, wouldn’t it be better to have accomplished something hard along the way?”

    Also, I have a blog that I do for single moms and women but I’m struggling with work/life balance at the moment and devoting most of my time to my full time job however I would love to do this full time in the future. As a single mom I struggled and want to share my successes and failures with others as encouragement. Without getting to personal how do you go about collaborating or getting sponsors or even networking so you get income from the blog? Thank you for being your lovely self!

  69. Thanks for sharing your amazing story… sometimes we just need a little nudge to unearth the courage lying in us to pursue our dreams.
    Love your blog and your writing. Please host a Houston meet and greet! Would love to meet you in person.

    1. Thanks so much for that Serena! Cari and I are planning a workout/meetup at the end of the month at Whole Food’s on Waugh – it will be Tuesday, 10/29!

  70. I love this so much! I have a 16-year-old that is struggling and it’s made me really think of the impact of others. If we build people up, especially kids, they can be anything!

  71. So very inspiring. Good on you. I’ve followed you over the years on IG but as I’m not very in to fashion (I adore your looks just don’t have the body shape) I didn’t delve into your blog area at all. I wish I had now. What a great story to tell your kids too. Perseverance- such a strong trait and more of us need it now than ever. Especially you. I wish you every happiness. Keep up the great work (I particularly liked your food prep stories ). Thank you

    1. I really appreciate that Susie. I don’t think my kids really understand that part of my life, but I should start sprinkling it on my older one especially. Thanks for the nudge- even if you didn’t intend it! 😉

  72. I must have met Dennis but for the life of me I can’t remember what he looked like. As you know it was my home away from home at that time when you worked there, especially on Sundays during football season. Hopefully the generous tips helped out. You’ve done well and i am very proud of you.

    1. OMG! Of course you know Dennis! I would think! He was kind of quiet and kept to himself though. He was short, balding, typically wore a suit. Does that ring a bell?? I’m so glad we still keep in touch Jim!

  73. It was so great to read this! I knew I liked you for some reason!! I’ve unfollowed many bloggers over the last year as my patience for faux personalities and tone deaf posts has significantly dwindled. There’s substance and brains behind your page. You’re one of the 5 that I really enjoy watching and respect! Thank you for sharing!!

  74. I love the Grandma Nola story, too. i think about people who are looking for something in their lives. She accepted the opportunity and gained much from the experience herself as well!

  75. The title of your write-up is very eye catchy which holds an individual to read till the very end of your blog. Every new paragraph increases the interest of a reader.

  76. Loved this post. Totally can relate. Went to law school with a 3 year old and pregnant with twins while also working full-time (did weekend law school). I knew I had to be able to provide financial stability for my children. Made it through and realized that there was nothing I could not do provided I put my mind to it! So glad you had Dennis in your life to guide you. I had my own angel that guided me and served as an inspiration.

  77. Megan,
    What a great story. Thanks so much for sharing. I’m glad you met Dennis and he was so supportive in guiding you in the right direction!! Can’t wait to hear part two. 🙂

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