A year in . . .

dress: target (similar)  sweater: target (similar)   boots: dsw (similar)

It's still a little crazy to me that I have a blog. 

That I write and people read it.

That I post pictures of my outfits for hundreds of people to see. 

Even crazier that I've shared some of my most personal things on this blog. 

When I started my blog a year ago, I honestly thought Lauren, Lauren and my mom would read it. 

and that's it. 

I had no intentions of it turning into what it has. 

It's become a place to share things that make me happy. 

to share funny stories from teaching. 

to share my heart. 

to share my skill of finding cheap clothing. 

to make real friends.
to share projects I've made. 

to process what God is teaching me. 

to be encouraged by others. 

Looking back at this last year this blog has been a great blessing and has been one of my favorite things.

I am truly convinced that God has used my blog this year as a hobby, a distraction, and a place to for me to share what He is doing in my life.

I am continually amazed at the people that I have met and the encouragement and joy that they have brought to my life.  

Each time I post a personal lesson or a glimpse into what I'm going through I'm blown away by the people that read my story, take the time to comment on my post, offer me advice, encouragement and even share their own hearts.   

I can't imagine how alone I would feel in my struggles if I hadn't met the people I have and I am beyond thankful for that. 

Not to say that there aren't things that I don't love about blogging.  Like my desire to buy more clothes or the added time it takes me to get dressed in the morning as I often feel the need for a "blog worthy" outfit post. 

Or the struggle with comparing myself and my blog to others or the amount of time I spend on my computer.

And I imagine as I continue blogging, the struggle for finding balance and avoiding comparison will increase.  

BUT the blessings from this little blog have been so good.

and I am thankful for you.  For reading my blog and for the friendships I've made.

I look forward to many more blessings!

Fall Accessories and a giveaway

I'm really excited to share with you one of my favorite blogging friends today!
Carly is a fellow teacher, who shares my love for clothes and I'm sure for Target too. But who doesn't?
I still need to learn a thing or two from her about beauty products.  I could use some serious help in that department.  Her husband is also in a band and I'm pretty sure he is becoming famous.  In that case then so will Carly, which is another reason to become friends with her. :)
She also has a sweet giveaway at the end too!

Today Carly is sharing some of her favorite fall accessories with you today.
My favorite fall accessory this year will most likely be my new fringe boots,
but now I want what Carly is sharing too!


Hello fabulous For Lauren & Lauren readers! I'm extra excited to be guest posting for Katie today, because she was my VERY first blog friend.  She wrote me the sweetest emails, and was so encouraging! 

I'm Carly....and I blog over at Lipgloss & Crayons.  I write about fashion obsessions, beauty products, teaching, and my life in the City of Angels.  

As much as I love summer......I'm READY for fall.....I'm crushing on fall accessories....a few in particular.  I've rounded up a few of my favorite fall accessories for you to enjoy.  The best part.....they're available at prices everyone can afford! 

1. Leopard Scarf // 2. Red Satchel // 3. Tortoiseshell Necklace // 4. Brown Riding Boots  

1. Leopard Scarf // 2. Red Satchel // 3. Tortoiseshell Necklace // 4. Brown Riding Boots

1. Leopard Scarf // 2. Red Satchel // 3. Tortoiseshell Necklace // 4. Brown Riding Boots

What fall accessories are you loving? Stop by Lipgloss & Crayons and tell me your favorites!

Thank you so much for your post Carly - I am impatiently waiting for Fall weather.   And I love all of them, but I'm pretty sure my cheap self will be after the ATM items.  I'm so excited because Carly is giving one of you a $10 gift card to Sephora AND a medium ad space on her blog.  Enter below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!

Weekend Wear

sweater: loft   leggings: jcpenney   sandals: target   tank: banana republic 

This is my ideal weekend attire, especially as the weather gets cooler.  I would choose leggings over just about anything else, as I think they couldn't be more comfortable. 

One of my favorite things about blogging has been getting to know other bloggers. I have thoroughly enjoyed and been blessed by some amazing girls who I have loved getting to know.  I've had the pleasure to get to know some of their hearts and am always encouraged when reading their blogs.  I'd love to share two of those girls with you! 

jeans: jcpenny  shoes: kohls  wallet: missionary kerrie

Kerrie was one of the first bloggers that I got to know and she has been such an encouragement to me this year.  Kerrie blogs at The William's Post where she shares a lot about her heart for missions.  I was so happy to be able to help support her mission's trip to Mexico by buying one of her adorable handmade wallets.  Kerrie and her husband will be full time missionaries and will be moving to Mexico next summer!  Check our her shop and learn how can support her and get an adorable wallet or clutch.

Katie is another blogger who I have loved getting to know.  She blogs at Hope Engaged where she shares about her life, including her missions work in Africa.  I was so excited when I won one of Katie's shirts in a giveaway and know that every time I wear it I will be praying for the communities and people she worked with, as well as the work she continues to do now. 

Enjoy checking out these sweet girls' blogs!