Life Update & September Rewind

Good morning Monday!  I hope you had a fantastic weekend.  Mine was really good.  We kept it low key while taking a break from Instagram and Stories to be with friends on Friday night and then celebrate my Dad’s birthday with my family on Saturday.  Sunday was a much needed day of rest!  I did some Fall decorating and I can’t wait to show you that soon!

Now I’m thinking, how in the world is it October tomorrow?!   Fall and the upcoming holiday season are always times I look forward to and enjoy so much. I know the holidays will look a little different this year than it has in the past, but I’m certain that there will be lots of love and fun and laughter with my kids, family and friends.

LIFE UPDATE

If you follow me on Stories or subscribe to my Weekend Newsletter, you may have heard my life update on Friday.  But for those of you that only read my blog, of course I wanted to open up and share it here too.

My divorce was finalized last week.  I’ve been going through this difficult time in my life for exactly one year, but due to a Court order, I wasn’t allowed to discuss it on any form of social media.  It wasn’t a secret and I hadn’t been wearing my ring, but I just wasn’t allowed to talk about it.

I know that many of you have felt that something was different or even suspected that I was going through a divorce, but you gave me GRACE and love and supported me from afar.  For that I will be forever grateful.  I’m glad that I am finally able to let you in on this portion of my life.  Maybe things make a little more sense now.

I know this is a lot to digest if you hadn’t realized that this was going on in my life.  I tried to hold my head high, stay positive, and be strong for myself and my kids.  By the grace of God, they are doing really well and I am too.  There have been many painful days, anger and grief – and that is all part of the process.  I’ve dealt with those emotions privately and adhered to the court order, not saying a word about it on my blog or any social media before I was allowed.

Through prayer, reading, journaling, meditating, and exercising my ass off, I’ve been able to let out the emotions that come when you go through such a life altering change. I have also learned to lean on my family and friends and accept their unconditional love and support.  Going through this experience has actually brought me closer to my friends as I let them be there for me.  What a gift that has been.

I’ve gone through so many stages of grief over this last year, and now there is some relief that things are final.  I know there is still a long road ahead, but you know me, I’m gonna be hopeful for the future and expect that God has great plans for me and the kids.

I also wish my ex-husband well and hope that this is the beginning of a new, better relationship for us as parents.  I would never want my kids to read or hear anything other than positive things about their Dad because they are half him, and they are pretty great!

Even though I’m doing well now, I wasn’t spared the trauma of divorce.  I have wounds and scars and still sleep on ‘my side’ of the bed.  Had you peeked in on me at various times during this last year, you might have seen a woman who struggled to get out of bed some days due to dread and anxiety, or that was so dead tired and often fell asleep at 7pm.  I’ve snapped at my kids and found out that showers are good escapes for bawling your eyes out.

But God.

But time and space and healing.

A year is a long time to have been going through this and I’ve done a lot of work to get to a better place during that time.  I’m entering October with hopefulness for the future.

You often hear me say “thank you” but I really want you to FEEL it this time.  Since sharing this life update on Stories and in my Weekend Newsletter, I have literally been brought to tears – crying while reading your words – overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and positive messages.  You continue to lift me up as good girlfriends always do.

It’s especially helpful to hear from those of you that have gone through divorce also and have come out stronger and happier than before. There is a light at the end of the tunnel.  Many of you have found strength you didn’t know was there and the journey of self discovery has been liberating.  I’m finding that for myself too.

What’s next?

Keep on keepin’ on.

One day at a time.

Heal, grow, and learn.

I’ll continue to show up here for you and keep blogging away, sharing fashion, fitness and decor like I always do.  It’s time for my monthly rewind and it felt appropriate to end September with this life update so that we can start fresh tomorrow on October 1.

Thank you again from the bottom of my heart for your kindness, support, love and prayers.

SEPTEMBER REWIND

From Lawyer to Blogger

I was really surprised by how much interest y’all had in my lawyer to blogger story.  See, I’m learning to open up and share more. 😉  In Part 1, you met the encouraging people that I largely credit for helping me get to law school. 

And in Part 2, I  shared my journey of how I actually started my blog and turned it into a full time career.  

Top  • LeggingsHatBracelets • Checkered Tote • Bag Organizer

STYLE

September was also full of Amazon fashion, cute Fall outfits and great shopping tips!  I started off by sharing a Dressing Room Try-On with lots of Summer to Fall fashion!

Thermal TopJeansLeopard Flats

I rounded up all the outfits I’ve been wearing lately, which I hope will serve as a wardrobe inspiration for your own closet.

Animal Print Dress

Dress • Booties • Similar Bag • Similar Gold Bangles

I shared some of my tips for transitioning Summer to Fall Outfits, even when the hot weather is still looming. We’re supposed to drop down to the 80’s soon and that will be cause for celebration!

Jean ShortsTopWedge SneakersBagSimilar BagLeopard ScarfTop Camo PantsSandalsBagJeansScallop TopLeopard Flats

I wrap my wrists in these beautiful wrap bracelets daily, and they will also make fantastic Christmas gifts this year for teachers and girlfriends.  Shipping is FREE on orders over $50.

Similar Crystal Wrap Bracelet 

I love sharing my Amazon Hits & Misses with you, and this month there were were so many I had to split them into two posts.

Camo SweatshirtJeansBooties • Leopard CardiganBodysuitPeep Toe Booties • Rust SweaterBoyfriend JeansMules • Striped Crewneck Shirt • Military JacketWedge Sneakers

Ya’ll have been asking how I find so many Amazon keepers, so I spilled the beans and shared my pro shopping tips here.

TopJeansJacketShorts • Boots

Your September Amazon Faves

I love seeing what YOU love each month, and here are your September favorites!

Camo Pullover • love the color combo!

Leggings • comfy, opaque and last forever – only $17!

Color Block Pullover • lightweight and easy to throw on

Checkered Bag • a Louis Vitton dupe for under $50 and super sturdy- I just ordered the brown one too!

Leopard Cardigan • the perfect stylish cardigan for Fall!

LOVES

This months Loves was soooo good! Your favorite was definitely the tiger stripe flats!  Be sure to size up half on those, they run small.

Leopard Scarf • Nail Color • Off Shoulder Top • Jeans • Fall Hat • Tiger Stripe Flats

Flat Iron • Wrap Bracelet

Your September Loves

Here’s what ya’ll are loving this month:

Leopard Flats • come in a cute tiger pattern as well

Wedge Sneaker • super practical and comfy

Scalloped Tank • 4 fun colors and patterns

Camo Joggers • dress these up or down

HEALTH & FITNESS

I partnered with HUM Nutrition to share some of the vitamins and supplements I’ve started taking on a daily basis.  I have always felt overwhelmed with where to start with vitamins other than a multi, but this 3-minute quiz makes it so easy!

Cari and I are thrilled to have the Get Fit Done Meal Plan  live and ready for purchase! For a limited time, the Meal Plan will be offered for just $19, before it goes up to the $29 full price.

JUST (THE BEST) SEPTEMBER SALES

Everyone loves a good deal and I don’t mind doing the scouring for ya!  Here are the top 5 sale items of the month.

Barefoot Dreams Cardigan • under $60 and normally $108!

Ripped Jeans • 30% off

Utility Joggers • Super comfy and now 60% off!

Red Midi Dress • Perfect for a holiday party and only $30

This was a long one friends, I hope you made it this far! 

Now go kick Monday’s booty and I will too! 😉

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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!

59 Comments

  1. Megan – I’m so sorry to hear about what you’ve been going through and hope you really see Oct 1 as a new beginning. You can do it! You’re an inspiration!

  2. You are an amazing example of strength and courage. I can only imagine how difficult this last year has been and I wish you the best as you continue to start this new chapter in your life. Those sweet kids of yours will keep you going in the tough times! Love to you and your family.

  3. I’ve been following your blog for quite a while now, and suspected that something was going on in your private life, but as that’s really none of our business, I thought you’d mention it if and when you were ready and the time was right. I am so sorry for the difficult year you’ve had and hope that you find the strength inside yourself and through others to make the transition to the next chapter of your life. I’ve been through a pretty awful couple of years myself, due in large part to the loss of both of my parents, and have resorted to some of the same things as you to find happiness and comfort: yoga, meditation, exercise, and more “me” time. So much better for us than some of the other things we can turn to when going through a hard time, right? I look forward to seeing what the future holds for you!

  4. I’m so sorry for the pain you’ve been experiencing. I’ve been following you for a long time. I’m thinking of you and will pray for a healed heart. Much love!!

  5. Sending so much love your way, Megan. I can’t tell you how much I respect how you have chosen to publicly handle this incredibly private life change, wishing you all the best in this next chapter of life <3

  6. I missed your Insta-story on this. I was wondering if you were going through a divorce – as many of my friends have gone through the same this year I could see little signs of what you must be going through. Even though I don’t know you personally, I can tell you’re smart, beautiful (obv.) and have amazing family and friends. Your e-community loves you and you’re going to come out better and happier in the end! Even my friends who didn’t choose to divorce, but had husbands leave them came out better and happier. It’s a tough journey though so be easy on yourself. Kids are so resilient and yours look like they’re doing great! Now I know you’re religious and I don’t mean to offend in any way, I think god would forgive me in this case when I say – Go kickass, we’re all rooting for you!

  7. Dear Megan,

    I’m so sorry to learn of the life-changing challenges you’ve been going through this past year. You handle all of life’s challenges with with dignity and optimism, which may not completely protect us but helps us heal when the time is right. Grandma Nola was and is right: taking care of you is so important now as you navigate the changes in your life. On that score, you remain a model to me and many of your readers.

    Hugs from one of your long-time readers (and infrequent commenters) in the Midwest!

  8. I’m sorry you’ve been going through this. Divorce can be very hard. I’d like to say that grief and progress are circular. It’s natural to feel all the anger, acceptance etc at different times. You don’t have to think “but I was supposed to have dealt with anger already!” That’s even more natural with a divorce that has not been a shared agreement or where either party has assigned blame (not saying that’s the case here).
    It’s six years now since mine and feelings still come up occasionally. I try to accept that the thoughts are there and move on to the next thing.
    Having been through an incredibly antagonistic divorce as a child too, I know that I would have benefited from therapeutic support at the time and there’s no shame in having the children see a counsellor if that’s something you think would help them.

  9. I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve had such a hard year. I hope every day gets a little better for you. Know that you have many people rooting for you and hoping some happiness and lightness come your way very soon. You do such a good job being positive and looking on the bright side of life on your blog–and I’m sure that you are like that in real life too–it is always inspiring to read your posts, and I wish we could give you back even a tiny bit of what you give your readers.

  10. Hey. I didn’t see the stories update and I’m not nosy (or observant) enough to notice you weren’t wearing your ring. All that to say, kudos to you for keeping your content rolling. In my opinion, it didn’t show. And kudos to you for your vulnerability and honesty about your experience. I’m healing from a broken heart, and while it isn’t a divorce, I can still relate to the feelings you expressed. Thank you and keep on pushing.

    1. Sending you love, prayers and support as you continue down the path of healing.
      •For I know the plans I have for you – plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you HOPE and a future. -Jeremiah 29:11
      God bless! xoxo

      1. Yeah, this verse is not applicable to anyone today. Sure, it is inspirational, it’s fun to put on throw pillows and coffee mugs from your local Christian bookstore. But if you know Jesus, and you know your Bible, then you know that the Old Testament has been fulfilled in Jesus.
        Not every one who follows Jesus will prosper… you should know that if you are mature in Christ. Most Christ-followers will suffer, for their faith, and for the way they follow God. But Jesus will see you through.

  11. Megan, so very sorry for what you have been going through. I did notice and many times had the urge to tell you Hod put on my heart to pray for you so I guess He was nudging me but I wanted respect your privacy. That being said, you are doing a grat job and it is so ok to have blah days too! I went through divorce and learned to just grow in my relationship God and really learned to listen for His voice and Holy Spirit’s guidance! I was blessed with a 2nd chance at marriage (was single momma for many years) and really had to learn patience and trust in the waiting. BUT GOD!! Still happily married to a Godly also previously married man and have an amazing blended family!! All by the grace of God!! So keep doing you and walking faithfully with hope and I KNOW you have great things coming!! ❤❤??

  12. Thinking of you, Megan. I can’t imagine how hard this must be. You seems to have such an impressive attitude and so much going for you. I see a new, brighter future ahead for you! Keep on keeping on! It’s always a pleasure to read your blog.

  13. Lord I come to You asking that you will strengthen Megan, James, Jordan and that Your peace and love will comfort and surround them. I ask for continued blessings in every area of their lives and that whatever they put their hands to they will prosper. I speak life, protection, health and wealth over them, in Jesus Name-Amen!! I’ve been following you since James was a toddler and this saddens me but I’m grateful that you shared because I believe you will help many people dealing with divorce. Love ya girly and God bless!!

  14. You are so strong! I had no idea that you were going through such a hard time, and I’m sorry to hear that. You’re really good at keeping your blog positive and uplifting despite your personal life situation. You’re my favorite blogger and I feel like I know you as a friend. Please know that all of your readers support you and are here for you. Sending much love from Austin!

  15. Megan I’m sorry to hear about all you have been going through. You never gave even a hint. You handled everything with grace and dignity. You are an inspiration and role model for us all.
    I recently unsubscribed from most of the blogs l was following, but I look forward to reading yours – it’s one of the only 2 I kept. I regularly look to you for fashion advice and ways ”to live my best possible life’. I enjoy the stories of your family and friends, your journey to become a lawyer was definitely a good read and shows your strength and determination.
    I know with your usual grace and integrity you will come out of the past year an even stronger person.
    With warm thoughts for you and your family.
    Sue

    1. Hi Sue, I had to keep it in and it was really hard. Maybe for the best ultimately. But I’m relieved to have that chapter closed. Thank you so much for being here.

    2. Sue – Megan could not give a hint, and was unable to blog about her divorce because of a gag order (she acknowledged as much) per the divorce proceedings. So a “grace” and “integrity” thing…? Not so much.

  16. Hi, Megan, I’m sorry to hear this. Let the lord heal you and strengthen you. Let him bless your kids abundantly. Love and prayers

  17. Have not been a follower long but thanks for your courage to share. A close friend of my husband (a man) went through this a few years ago and a good, trustworthy friend can be a steadfast rock in a time of stress. God’s blessings on you and your family.

  18. Dear Megan,
    I applaud the grace and discretion you’ve given for yourself and your family. Know that you (and your children) will be alright. I pray for peace in your heart and wish you the sweetest that life has to offer.
    Here’s to new beginnings….. Happy October 1!
    Love to you,
    Lisa

  19. So sad to hear about your divorce. Although I don’t know you personally, feel like you are a friend from afar. I don’t comment often but wanted to extend my support, prayers and best wishes. Although things may feel dark and challenging, know that God is with you. Lean on the Lord. You may not know why this is happening, believe me when I say that you will get to a place one day where you will understand and make peace and even say, “its for the best”. In the meantime, be easy on yourself. Schedule time for prayer, exercise, self care, etc…. Know that all of us are in your corner and rooting for you!!

  20. Hi Megan, I’m shocked and sorry to learn of your divorce. All I ever saw was that dazzling smile. When I think of the turmoil behind the smile, my heart breaks. You have so much going for you, go kick some butt. You have me as lifetime fan.

    1. I’ve tried to keep my chin up, but of course, it’s not always smiles. I do love the “go kick some butt” sentiment. I’m all about that! 🙂

  21. Oh Megan, when I saw your story last night my heart dropped. Thank you for sharing your struggle and I am sending you hugs. I am in the middle of my own divorce and I could totally hear and identify with the pain you spoke of. My divorce was unwanted and unexpected and the process has been sheer hell. Mine has been going on for 18 months but I am hoping we are nearing the end soon. I have ups and downs. Days I feel like everything is going to be ok and days of despair. The worst is the sadness and guilt surrounding how this all affects my children who has no idea this was coming. The anger and rage comes in waves. I am still trying to keep my head above water. Breathe. Another wave. Sometime choking. Still treading. But I can see the shore.

  22. sweetheart – it’s your real self that will ultimately be your biggest success story professionally and more importantly – as a mom. No one wants to see you or your kids go through this divorce because can we be honest for a sec? Divorce actually sucks for all those involved….. but the fact that you can be real about it?? That is always, always best. And healthy. And helpful to other people. God bless you and the woman and mother you are working to be. thanks for sharing and inspiring us….much love to your family

  23. I’m so sorry what u are going through. My husband and I were separated for 2 years with a divorce looming. All unwanted by me but drug through it nonetheless. By the grace of God our marriage was restored but I won’t forget those years of single motherhood. Single moms have the hardest jobs! It was the hardest thing I have ever endured. Someone once said it likes grieving a death of someone that is still alive. It’s even harder to move past it when you still have to see him and communicate with him. We support widowers and feel their pain. Let’s also wrap our arms around those single parents who are putting one foot in front of the other. Praying for your healing and trust in God.

  24. Thank you so much for sharing. I, too, am going through a divorce and I can relate to your feelings. It helps to know I’m not alone. Take care!

  25. Fall is a wonderful time for fresh starts. Thank you for sharing your story Megan. I’m so sorry you had to go through that. You’ve been through so much, always with grace and courage and kindness. Hoping for more happiness ahead for you and yours.

  26. I had no idea you and your children were going through this. My heart was breaking reading your post then watching your instagram story. I’m so very very sorry, Megan. I’ve been following for maybe 2 yrs and always enjoy your posts. You are so beautiful inside and out! Please know that no matter how difficult this season may seem, I know you are going to come out of this so much stronger. I know God has something amazing for you that will hopefully overshadow the hurt and pain you’ve had to endure. You are very loved and adored by so many. Here’s to new beginnings.

  27. So very sorry to hear about your divorce. Sending you lots of positivity, strength and grace but I see from following you that you have so much of that already.
    A side note to you on your comment about co-parenting well…I married a divorced man with two boys. He and his exwife did such a great job co patenting (It wasn’t always easy!)… never ever speaking badly about the other parent around the kids, spent holidays together as a blended family, always put the kid’s needs first and had an open honest communication about the boys needs. They also went to parenting classes which were very helpful. The boys are now in their 20s and are so proud of how their parents handled everything! I wish all of that for your family.?

    1. Thank you Mary Ann. Those are parenting goals for sure. I’m hopeful for that here too. It’s awesome to see it play out in real life.

  28. Megan, you have handled such a major life change with such grace and poise. Sending you and your kiddos lots of love and good vibes for this next chapter of your life! You bring so much joy, help and ease to all of your followers with all of your awesome posts and finds! Thank you for everything you do! Keep on keep keeping on!

  29. Megan, thank you so much for sharing, I’ve been working on my own divorce for several years and while I’d never wish the situation on anyone, it is nice to know I’m in good company! So many blogs don’t dive into the tough things we all face, your doing so is appreciated and I’ll continue to read so as to see how you flourish. I wish you all the best to come.

    1. I really appreciate that Jess. This has been one of the hardest years, but also very freeing and a time of tremendous growth. I’m sure you can relate. Thank you for letting me know I’m not alone, it can be a lonely time of year but I’m trying to embrace it and enjoy it!

  30. Oh Megan, I am so excited to hear this news as you are coming out of the dark side of divorce. When you first shared some of the real parts of being a single parent, I cried with you as I too, have gone through divorce. Now it is happy tears and you made my day to see the lovely pic of you two. What a lovely couple you are and you look happy as you always do! Enjoy the adventure, if it’s a season or a lifetime. I start my day with you each morning with my cup of joe and rely on you for the hard work of the good sales and recommendations and purchases! Thank you for sharing and making life a little more zesty! You’re my favorite blogger hugs ❤️

    1. It’s been a really rough couple of years, as I’m sure you can relate. I love having your support and I agree about just enjoying the adventure!

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