Saturday Morning Recap-8.30.14

Good Morning, Lovelies!

I hope you had the most wondrous Friday, and are planning even more fun for this evening! 

Thank you all so much for your prayers- unfortunately, the Titans fell in their game last night. It’s always good to spend a night with the Football Fam, (I know some of you read this- so see you all next week at home:).)

I recently found this coat and fell head over heels for it. A camel coat is a classic piece that will always be in style, plus, if you get one that is good quality, it will last for at least a decade. I do  not own one, but my Mom does, and I love the way it looks on her. Absolutely to die for paired with a Burberry scarf. The above coat is from Brooks Brothers, so if you casually have an extra $1,000 lying around that you don’t know what to do with- snatch this coat up. If you’re part of the rest of civilization who doesn’t, good alternatives are Michael Kors (my mom’s,) or Ralph Lauren.

Anything you guys have fallen in love with lately or believe to be a wardrobe staple? Also: Happy College Gameday!

Forever on the 50,

C

Football Friday/Friday Favorites

Happy Friday my B&B darlings!

It’s Football Friday and time for Friday Favorites! Exciting, right? Before I talk about my favorites- I want to touch on a personal note. 

Today’s the day- the official season opener for the high school season. I must admit- my stomach is in knots. I feel like I’m going to throw up and pass out at the same time, and I’m just the coach’s kid. I cannot fathom how the players and coaches themselves must feel. Friday night nerves are expected, but this season is a little different. As I’ve previously mentioned, last year’s team didn’t do so hot. There’s a lot riding on this year, and things have to go well. Failure is not an option. This is where the support of the “Football Fam" is so greatly appreciated. Tonight is an away game, (like, super away. 3 hours to be exact,) so we made the (very,) last minute decision to stay home. We actually aren’t going to be in attendance, but you bet your bottom dollar we’re going to be sitting together in someone’s living room listening to the Titans on the radio. A tradition my Dad and I have had since I was a little girl is watching Remember the Titans the night before the season opener, and this year was no different. It’s pretty fitting considering his team’s mascot is actually the Titans. His players legitimately refer to me as Sheryl Yoast (which, I take as a compliment-though I’m not sure it’s always meant that way.) Tonight will be nerve-wracking in every way, especially since we cannot be there- so prayers are greatly appreciated from all of you.

Now that I’m done pulling at your heart strings, on to the fun stuff!

Favorite Drink: Pumpkin Spice Latte. I’m so glad they’re back. 

Favorite Outfit: Navy leggings with a green gingham button down tied up- it’s a great transition outfit from Summer to Fall. 

Favorite Song: Shades of Cool by Lana Del Rey. In my mind, Queen Lana can do no wrong.

Favorite Picture: This Shot that I found on Pinterest. Stunning is an understatement. Kiera Knightly. 

Favorite Store: J.Crew prevails once again. These pixie pants need to get in my closet in every color now. Actually, like, yesterday.

I hope you all have the most magnificent weekend! What are your Friday Favorites?

Forever on the 50,

C

Bleeding Love for Oxblood

Happy Thursday y’all!

Recently, I have been dying over the color oxblood/burgundy. Can you get any more appropriate for Fall? My toenails are currently an oxblood color, which inspired me to go looking. I found the above pictures while browsing Pinterest the other night and I must say- I cannot get enough. Do you guys have any color crushes for Fall?

Forever on the 50,

C

Wine Lip Wednesday

Happy Wednesday Everyone!

As strange as it sounds- I am obsessed with this lip color. It’s Revlon’s “black cherry,” over MAC Cosmetics “Nightmoth,” lip liner. I’m very intrigued by it, but I’m honestly scared to test it out. Have any of you tried the dark-lip trend for Fall? Did you like the way it looked? I hope you all have a very happy Hump Day!

Forever on the 50,

C

Exhaustion

Hello B&B!

I had the hardest time waking up today. Usually I’m a morning person, but I’m just not feeling it today. The passed few years I’ve found that Tuesdays are sometimes harder to get going than Mondays! Do any of you sympathize with me? Mornings like these are when I wish I could I.V. Starbucks right into my bloodstream (in case you can’t tell, I’m a serious caffeine addict.) However, I thought that this presented a great opportunity to share my top ten tips to get your morning going!

10) Start the night before. Lay out your clothes and anything else you may need in the morning. Avoid or seriously limit screen-time past 8 PM. Sure, Netflix-ing a movie at 9 sure sounds like a great idea, until your movie is over and you realize it’s 1:30 AM and you still haven’t fallen asleep (when your alarm goes off at 5.) We’ve all been there, but it’s really best to avoid it at all costs. Stick to herbal tea and reading a book at night- you’ll thank me later.

9) Get plenty of sleep. This one seems obvious, but sleep deprivation is one of the worst medical conditions in our country. Go to bed at 9:30 or 10, I promise you won’t be missing much. 

8) Don’t hit snooze. It’s best to just wake up with your first alarm, otherwise you’re prolonging the amount of time your body produces melatonin, which makes you sleepier for longer. 

7) Have a routine. Waking up on time is much easier if you know there’s a specific set of tasks you have to complete before you leave your house! 

6) Plan something special for yourself. Same principle as above. You’re more likely to get moving if you know you get to try out that new makeup you just bought or make your favorite breakfast.

5) Wash your face. Seriously, this one works. Nothing gets your adrenaline pumping like cold water directly on your skin, plus this one is just hygienic.

4) Shake it up. Play music in the morning and dance around a little! It’s bound to put you in a great mood the rest of the day. You could even set your alarm to be your favorite song (even more incentive to get out of bed and get your blood pumping.)

3) Pay it Forward. Make it your mission to do something nice for someone as soon as you wake up- whether that’s sending a sweet good morning text to your boyfriend or making breakfast in bed for your mom, it gives you just another reason to wake up.

2) Give yourself a pep talk. Rise and shine. Today’s the day to take on the world. You are awesome.  Who doesn’t love a little morning inspiration?

1) Coffee. When all else fails, turn to caffeine. There is no inanimate object in this world I love more than a cup of black coffee. Caffeine works for obvious reasons and I really think I’d die without it. 

So that’s it! Any tips y’all have for waking up? Have a great Tuesday!

Forever on the 50,

C

Are You Ready?

Good Morning Bows and Blitzes!

Just in case you’re having a tough time getting out of bed on this Monday morning…

Wait for it…

Pumpkin Spice Lattes are back at Starbucks! That’s right, it’s officially Fall (even though it’s August?) and I couldn’t be happier about it. Pumpkin patches, boots, crisp weather, and the vibrancy of changing leaves are all right around the corner. In fact, they’re so close that, starting today, you can literally taste it. I know I can’t be the only one who is SO ready for the seasonal change (I’ve actually already started switching over to darker nail polishes, more leggings, etc.) Although, you’ll all be proud of me- I resisted buying Halloween decorations at JoAnn Fabrics this passed Sunday. 

Seriously, how cute is this? I shall obtain it soon, but I at least need to wait until September. What are your favorite parts of Fall? Any fun Fall traditions? I hope you all have a marvelous Monday.

Forever on the 50,

C

Saturday State of the Union

Good Afternoon Bows and Blitzes!

Happy Saturday. I apologize for today’s post being off-schedule, but I figured better late than never. Today is a day of mixed-emotions for me. I have very, very, very fun plans with 3 of my best friends tonight (my school is having a casual, open dance. There’s a DJ, tons of people, and everyone wears running shorts and dances like maniacs in our gym. It. Is. A. Blast,) but my other best friend, cBs, is heading back to college today. Every time she goes back gets harder and harder. I know that we’ll stay close, but it doesn’t make it any easier knowing that we can’t hang out whenever we feel like it. I will miss her dearly but I know she will be home to visit me very soon! 

My dad’s scrimmage last night did not go as well as hoped, but I am still ecstatic for the season opener next week. Growing up, my mom always dressed me up for games. It’s just what I’m used to, so I’ve continued to do so. It’s not unusual to see me in wedges and a blazer at an early season game (more layers are added as the season goes on,) but dressing nicely is just another reason I love Football Fridays. I also made hair bows for the season, and I must say- they are adorable. I love being with the other coach’s wives and kids as well. The Football Fam is unreal when it comes to loving and supporting one another, and we are truly blessed that we are as close as we are. Something tells me Friday nights will be extraordinary this Fall, all because of the people I get to spend them with. As excited as I am for tonight, I’m also kind of sad- which means I must admit that for several reasons, Fridays are my favorite.

I laughed out loud when I saw this picture. Every coach’s wife should have this bumper sticker. (For those of you who are unfamiliar with the show Friday Night Lights, Tami Taylor is the head coach’s wife.)

What are all of you doing today? Any crazy plans tonight?

Forever on the Fifty,

C

Fantastic Friday

TGIF! TGIF! TGIF! (If you read that as the chant section from Katy Perry’s “Last Friday Night,” we are best friends.) Happy Friday everyone! As you are reading this, I am probably on my way out the door to my dad’s scrimmage. The official season doesn’t start until the 29th, but being back at the stadium on Friday nights is fantastic. As I posted here , being a coach’s kid is definitely a different lifestyle- but I wouldn’t change it for the world. How many people get to say “oh yeah, my dad is the head coach.” Very, very, very few. As hard as it can be, being a coach’s kid is one of my favorite aspects of my life. Speaking of favorite aspects of my life, how about some Friday Favorites from this week?!

Favorite Starbucks drink ATM (at the moment): Skinny Iced Caramel Macchiato if I want something Iced, Skinny Cinnamon Dolce or Skinny Chai Tea Latte if I want something hot, (but those will soon be replaced by my beloved Pumpkin Spice Latte which makes its return on August 25th!)

Favorite Song: This week I have been loving Dust by Eli Young Band. Edgy and super fun to drive to!

Favorite Jewelry: This week I have been loving midi-rings. I have a set of 3 gold ones and I’ve been wearing them non-stop.

Favorite Accessory: My Lilly Pulitzer IPhone 5s case in Lulu. It’s been a day-brightener this week every time I look at it!

What have been your favorites from this week? Have a fantastic weekend!

Forever on the fifty,

C

Football Nails

Happy Thursday my B&Bers!

How cute are these Football Nails? I was browsing pinterest the other day when I came across them. As a Coach’s daughter, I am always intrigued by this kind of stuff, and I am always eager to try it out! My nails are currently the Gelish color “Jet Set,” which is gray with pink shimmer 

but as soon as this comes off- the football nails are being tested out! I probably will only paint a football on my ring finger, and instead of green I think i’ll make the rest of my nails the team colors, but nonetheless this picture is great inspo! What are your favorite nail trends for Fall? (Also: Pumpkin Spice Lattes are back starting August 25th! Eeek!) Have a lovely Friday tomorrow!

Forever on the fifty,

C

The Best Books

What day is it? Hump dayyyyyy. 

I hope everyone is having the most perfect Wednesday! I’m sitting here staring at my bookshelf and I thought to myself “why not do a post on books?”

First off: let me say that I am an avid reader. I feel as if reading improves every other aspect of your life- both academically and otherwise. I did not read the Harry Potter books growing up, nor was I into the Hunger Games, or Twilight. They just weren’t my thing. I also did not cry while I read or watched The Fault In Our Stars (let’s hear it for being heartless!!!!!)

As a child I read a lot of Judy Blume, and I also thoroughly enjoyed the Goosebumps series. The majority of my junior high years were spent with my nose buried in The Clique series. High school rolled around and things changed. My Freshman year, I hardly read at all. I read the books that were assigned in English class (including Romeo and Juliet, Of Mice and Men, and Raisin in the Sun, to name a few,) but that’s about it. My Sophomore year I was terrible about reading. I didn’t read for enjoyment, nor did I read the assigned books (HUGE mistake. I still got a B, but I could have done much better than I did.) The summer going into my Junior year was when I fell back in love with reading, and I haven’t stopped since. I enjoy all kinds of books- both bubble-gum easy reads and serious literature. So without further ado, here are my top 10 (ish) favorite books, in no particular order.

10) Number the Stars by Lois Lowry. Being the history freak that I am (nerd is probably more accurate, but why use a word with such a negative connotation?) I enjoyed this book immensely. I specifically love WWII, and this book is set in the middle of The Holocaust. I remember reading this around 6th grade, but I have since re-read it and I enjoy it more and more each time. Number the Stars is not very lengthy, and it gives an amazing account of what life really was like in WWII Europe. Absolutely worth your time reading.

9) The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. So many people claim to love this story, but have never actually read the book. I love the most recent version of the movie, and it does stay fairly accurate to the book (more so than the 1970s version,) but there is absolutely no comparison. If you have not done so already- read the book. The movie portrays a fantastic love story, which is great, but the book is so much better. Reading the book allows you to truly be enveloped by the genius that is F. Scott Fitzgerald. The language is so beautiful and poetic (not in a rhyme/meter type of way, but in a “wow this guy’s descriptions are unreal,” kind of way.) The book also has an immeasurable amount of detail as opposed to the movie. The best way I can describe this one is that the movie is the SparkNotes version, so just read the book.

8) The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian. The Double Bind is set in modern-day New England, and chronicles a social worker named Laurel. This book is Gatsby-linked and absolutely genius. It is suspenseful up until the last second with an ending that will blow your mind. I don’t want to reveal too much, but I promise you it is worth it.

7) The Awakening by Kate Chopin. Call me old-fashioned, call me whatever you please- I was absolutely enthralled in every page of this novel. I found it beautiful but simultaneously enigmatic how a book published in 1899 could be so relevant to life today (and if you’ve read it, you know what I am talking about.) This book was actually assigned for my AP English class, but I quickly fell in love. I found myself underlining quotes and dog-earing pages of things I wanted to remember. I also loved this book because of the historical aspect. Do yourself a favor; go to Barnes and Noble, and pick this book up- I guarantee you won’t want to put it down.

6) The L.A. Candy Series (including L.A. Candy, Sweet Little Lies, Sugar and Spice, and The Fame Game.) These books are all guilty pleasures. They are not profound, they are not classics, but that does not mean they’re not good books. I also adore Lauren Conrad, so I was eager to read whatever she was willing to write. I highly recommend these to anyone who watched Laguna Beach and The Hills. 

5) Southern Charm by Tinsley Mortimer. Similar style to the aforementioned books by LC. This book is a fun read, but I loved it. The main character, Minty (who is based off of the author,) reminded me a lot of myself. This book is absolutely adorable, and actually does reveal some universal truths about coming into your own and learning some lessons as a young woman. I highly recommend if you’re looking for a fun and breezy book.

4) The DaVinci Code by Dan Brown. As a practicing Roman Catholic, I should hate this book- but I don’t. It’s excellently written, and is a fantastic mystery story. I have never watched the movie because I heard it is not as good as the book, and, quite frankly, I don’t want to ruin my impression of the story. As a Catholic, I think it’s important to remember that TDC is a fictional story very loosely based off of historical fact. If you easily believe conspiracies, etc. you probably shouldn’t read this. If you are sound in your faith and want to enjoy an excellent piece of literature- go for it. Dan Brown is brilliant, and I probably should check out his other books.

3) Heaven Is For Real by Todd Burpo. This book is a heartwarming true story about the author’s little boy, Colton, and his adventure into heaven as a result of his poor health. If you’re a Christian- this book will immensely strengthen your faith. If you’re not- this book just may convert you. Another book that you should read before you see the movie.

2) Spoiled by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan. Another bubble-gum book. There’s not much sustenance, but it is sugary-sweet. I really liked this book, because I could read it while laying by the pool (I didn’t necessarily have to be fully engaged with it.) There is a sequel, Messy, which was also a good, quick read.

1) The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne. I have mixed feelings about this book, but I decided to include it anyways. This was part of the required reading list from my Junior year in high school. I really did enjoy the book (everyone loves a little scandal, don’t they?) I think the reason I ended up semi-hating it was because of the activities that we did in class along with it. I’m the type of person who likes to read a book, reflect on it, and move on. I’ve never been a huge fan of reading assigned books, even if they were good books. I’ve usually read them, but just the very nature of having it be assigned kind of ruins it for me. However, The Scarlet Letter is iconic, and the story itself is a great one. Definitely worth the read, plus, being familiar with older literature is a great quality to possess.

So those are some of my favorite books! What are your favorites? 

Forever on the fifty,

C

Terrific Tuesday

Hey y’all! 

Is it really only Tuesday? (*Insert melodramatic sigh.*) On the bright side, the friendship bracelets that my friends and I ordered FINALLY came in- and, I must say, they are perfect. They’re simple yet beautiful, classy, and elegant- perfect for my friends. We all love them! In case you are interested in joining our sisterhood and ordering one for yourself, I put the link in this post. Have a fantastic Hump Day tomorrow!

Forever on the fifty,

C

Sound Your Trumpet

Happy Monday everybody! 

I stumbled upon this trumpet-sleeved dress at Dillard’s this weekend and I must say- I am 100% obsessed. The deep raspberry color is perfect for Fall, and you really can never go wrong with a shift. It would look fantastic with gray or black tights and booties! I’m also a huge fan of the exposed zipper in the back (and I love that it’s gold.) 

Hope you all have a fantastic day!

Forever on the fifty,

C

Weekend recap- 8.17.14

Happy Sunday! I hope you all had a weekend as fantastic as mine was! I apologize for the lack of posting this weekend- it has been a busy one. I just finished my first week back at school, so the euphoric feeling of 3 o’ clock on a Friday is something I am once again able to experience. 

Friday night, my dad’s team had a scrimmage. Being back at games on Friday nights just feels right. I sat in my spot on the 50 yard line with the coach’s wives (as per usual,) and I could not have been happier to be back. We all are extremely excited (albeit, nervous,) for this season; however our Titans were looking decent so that’s definitely a plus! Expect more football posts as the season goes on. :)

Saturday was also a wonderful day. I got my nails done with cBs, and later went out for ice cream and other various shenanigans with eGm, bBd, and our friend, Jeremy. It was Jeremy’s last weekend in town before he leaves for college, so we figured we should make sure he had fun! Unfortunately, our other bestie, lUj was unable to tag along because of soccer obligations (she was greatly missed.) 

Sunday I went to mass, spent time with family, and had a little Starbucks/homework date with eGm. I try to keep my Sundays as unscheduled as possible! I truly think everyone needs (at least) one day per week to just relax; Sunday is that day for me. I always get myself organized for the upcoming week, but that’s about it! 

How were your weekends? Any specific posts you’d like me to do? (Leave your ideas in the comments.) Have an outstanding week!

Forever on the fifty,

C

The Most Valuable Thing In Your Life

Hello lovelies!

I hope you’re all having a fantastic week! Today, I decided to write about something very near and dear to my heart: my best friends. I am fortunate enough that I have a really solid amount of people I would consider good friends; however, as much as I love my other friends- nobody holds a candle to my girls. 

There are really only six young women I would consider my “best friends,” (to cBs, eGm, bBd, lUj, mBr, and mLm,- hey kids I know you’re reading this. love you.) Very recently, I had some boy issues (#drama.) To make a very long story short, I woke up at 4 A.M. (randomly,) and instinctively checked my phone. Boy drama ensued. I texted my friends, fully expecting them to be asleep and just reply when they woke up, or not even reply and just wait to see me at school. Within five minutes I had responses. FIVE MINUTES. I sat up in my bed, adrenaline coursing through my veins, and the only thought enveloping my 4:05 A.M. brain was “I am ridiculously blessed.” 

My best friends- the crazy people who I spend my free days, Summer/Thanksgiving/Winter/Spring breaks, (I’m looking at you, cBs :),) lunch hours, and weekends with (usually involving late night shenanigans,) care about me enough to sacrifice their own sleep to comfort and take care of ME. Granted, I would do the exact same thing for them, but still. Having my friends there really put things in perspective. Yes, this boy had just absolutely messed with my head (and to be clear- only a boy, not a man, would do that,) but my best friends were right there to hold my hand. 

Sure, most best friends are 100%, irrefutably, indubitably there for each other-hence the point of being best friends, but my friends go above and beyond. They’re there for me, but they also seem to somehow always know exactly what I need, when I need it (including manicures and slushies so uh yeah you guys are rock stars.) I feel as if they are the sisters I was never blessed with (or wanted, now that I think of it. I was way too spoiled to share.) They know me inside and out, and I honestly do not have a clue where I would be without them. These girls bring out the best in me, which I could not be more thankful for. I know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that these are the people who will be in my life until the end of time. These girls (along with a few I’m sure to pick up along the way,) will be my bridesmaids, the Godmothers of my future children, and, most importantly, my sisters- forever. 

How can I be so sure at the age of 17? Because I know myself. I know that my personality (and theirs,) are strong enough that we all are aware that we mesh well together, and none of us are dumb enough to ever give that up. No matter the physical distances that will separate us, I know my best friends are never more than a phone call away. 

Obviously I love my family, but the bonds girls build with their friends are just different. There’s a very select few people in this world who bring out the best in you; hold on to the ones who do. By the same token, you cannot be afraid to cut people loose if they are toxic. If a person is negative constantly or makes serious, potentially life-altering decisions you don’t agree with- rid your life of them. The last thing you need is to be put in a compromising position by someone you refer to as your “friend.” Do not hesitate to move on- everyone outgrows certain friendships in their lives. Plus, the faster you move on from the wrong people, the more time you have with the right ones (absolutely cliche, but also very true.)

I am so blessed to have gone to an all girls school and bonded with the amazing young ladies I call my best friends. An all-girls atmosphere is a breeding ground for lifelong friendships, not ones that simply disintegrate as soon as high school is over. It’s hard to find the words (something I’m almost never at a loss for,) to describe how I feel about my best friends; my love for them is just too great to capture in text- but my hope is that this post makes you think about the wonderful people in your life. Do not take them for granted, and do not ever hesitate to tell them how much they mean to you. Do any of you have close friends you’ve known for years? How did you maintain the friendships through distance and time? I hope you all have a wonderful Friday!

Forever on the fifty,

C

BFF Bracelets

How cute are these bracelets? My friends and I just ordered them off of Etsy and are currently waiting for them to ship! We wanted to have bracelets that were nicer than typical friendship bracelets, but we also didn't want to spend a ton of money on them. We found these and decided they were perfect! Super cheap, super adorable, and they have pearls and monograms (so I, obviously, was a very happy camper.) Do you and your friends have any matching items? I hope you had a very blessed day!

Forever on the fifty,

C

It's Electric

Hello everyone! 

This passed Sunday, my high school hosted its first annual Electric Run! For those of you who are unfamiliar with “electric runs,” they’re basically neon-themed runs (similar to a Color Run, but about 1/100 of the mess.) Because I attend a private school and we do not have guaranteed feeder schools, my school has to market for enrollment. I am fairly involved with my school’s marketing department, so I helped out with planning, setting up for, and executing the event! It was an absolute blast and everyone had SO much fun. I love how everything turned out. We had slushy machines, a DJ, a silly string fight, and everything neon you could possibly imagine. The run would not have even been thought of, let alone happened without our AMAZING Director of Communications. She is absolutely divine and is one of the most dedicated people I know. Without further ado, here are the pictures from the Electric Run!

I apologize for the graininess of some of the pictures- I used my phone (first mistake,) and there was condensation on the lens (mistake numero dos.) Have any of you ever participated in an electric run? I hope you all had a great Monday! (Is that an oxymoronic phrase? Probably.)

Forever on the fifty,

C

Fall Fashion Essentials

Hello my lovelies! 

A post I have been dying to do is Fall fashion essentials! I absolutely adore Fall- it’s my favorite season. Friday night football games, pumpkin everything, boots, sweaters, changing leaves, and crisp weather are all right around the corner and I could not be more excited. I have already started school for this year, so I am completely over summer and in my Fall state of mind. The below list are things that I find absolutely necessary for a great Fall, so without further ado- here are my top 10 Fall Fashion Essentials.

10) A great tote bag: I absolutely love totes. They’re so versatile while still being fashionable! You can throw everything you could ever need in them. The only downside to totes are that they can quickly become bottomless pits. I avoid the aforementioned scenario by keeping everything organized by category in small, zippered pouches (i.e. hair stuff, makeup bag, meds, etc.) The tote that I’m using this Fall is pictured above (purchased from Elder-Beerman.) It’s an Anne Klein “Raising The Bar,” tote, and I fell in love the second I saw it. Navy with gold hardware, two HUGE sides separated by a zippered pouch divider. P-e-r-f-e-c-t-i-o-n. It’s also on sale right now, so run and get it while you can!

9) Riding boots: another great Fall staple. You can wear them with jeans, leggings, leg-warmers, and high socks. They come in a variety of colors and styles, so there’s likely a pair out there for everyone! My riding boots have been in my closet for a few years and are constantly utilized. It’s my personal belief that they’re something worth investing in, because they will last for years if you take care of them! There are too many good boot brands to name, but three of my absolute favorites are Bandalino (currently in my closet,) Vince Camuto (very high quality,) and, if you have a high budget, Tory Burch. (picture via dillards.com)

8) Oversize sweaters: ridiculously versatile. Big sweaters can be worn with leggings for lounging around the house, or dressed up with accessories and jeans for lunch dates with friends. They also come in a HUGE range of styles and colors, so everyone from the preppiest of preps to the soft-grunge crowd can find an oversize sweater that they like. (picture via shopbop)

7) Button downs: they can be layered under sweaters, or worn alone. They also come in a large range of prints and materials, so once again they’re appropriate for most people’s styles. Even better, they can be super dressed up, or extremely casual. Personally- I’m partial to Ralph Lauren button downs (I just think they’re very high quality and last forever,) but you can find button downs everywhere from Forever 21 to Dillard’s. Which ones you choose completely depend on your style and budget, but, overall they are a great staple no matter where they’re from! (picture via ralphlauren.com)

6) Quality jeans: self explanatory. Jeans go with almost anything, and almost everyone has a favorite pair. Find a style that works for you to be your go-to, but don’t be afraid to branch out, either! I’m usually a dark-wash skinny jeans/jeggings kind of girl, but I own a few pairs of colored denim and also a pair of distressed jeans. It’s always good to have a wide variety! My absolute favorite pair of jeans are my Lucky Brand Sofia Straights. They’re so comfy and very well made, but jeans are also a very personal thing and everyone has their preference- so find whatever works for you. (picture via luckybrand.com)

5) Tights: opaque, sheer, patterned- snatch them all. Tights are relatively cheap and can be worn in a variety of ways depending on the look you’re shooting for. Bonus Jonas: tights can also help transition some of your favorite summer skirts and dresses into fall (depending on the skirt/dress, obviously.) (picture via anthropologie)

4) Blazers: boyfriend-fit or tailored, blazers are always an excellent bet. They’re a nice alternative to sweaters if they’re worn over dresses, but they can also be worn with jeans and a tee. I, being the prep that I am, adore blazers and wear them any chance I get. They’re classic and will most likely never go out of style. They also can be found in every color possible-from neutrals to jewel tones- so dare I say there’s probably a blazer for nearly every outfit? All I know is that blazers are a wonderful addition to a Fall wardrobe (but, please, ladies- leave the shoulder pads in the 80s.) (picture is of me at a school function)

3) Pea coats: absolutely fantastic for nights when the temperature dips below crisp and into the 40s (or lower, if you’re in Ohio like I am.) They’re so timeless and can be held onto for a long time. Camel, charcoal, and black are always great color choices for pea coats- but in recent years I’ve seen a lot of red and cobalt blue ones, and, I must say- I’m loving them. (picture is a Ralph Lauren coat via dillards.com)

2) Vests: they’re perfect for days when it’s chilly enough that you can’t get away with wearing nothing over your main clothes, but it’s still too warm for a full-on coat. I prefer vests in neutral colors, but that’s completely personal. Vests can also be purchased at a variety of stores and in a variety of styles and colors, so you’re likely to find one you love! (picture via jcrew.com)

1) Ballet flats: my absolute number one Fall Fashion Essential is a stash of ballet flats. It is quite possible that in my lifetime I have seen ballet flats in every store, in every color, and embellished in so many ways that there truly may be endless combinations. Another reason ballet flats are great? They’re practical. As much as I love stilettos, they aren’t ideal for everyday wear. Flats can be worn to work, school, out to dinner, walking at a park with friends, football games, shopping dates- the sky is the limit. Flats also go with most outfits, so you never really have to worry about your shoes looking funny! Find yourself some flats, homegirl. I promise you wont regret it. (picture via samedelman.com, I LOVE gold flats for Fall!)

So those are my Fall Fashion Essentials! What are your essentials? What are you most excited for this Fall?

Forever on the fifty,

C

Football Fam

Hello my B&B-ers! 

I hope this post finds all of you having a fantastic day. Over the weekend, my Dad’s coaching staff had a family picnic/photo shoot. Their school’s colors are navy and gold, so in order to be in theme I wore a white oxford, navy chino shorts, navy sperry’s, and accessorized with a pearl hammock necklace, pearl earrings, a pearl bracelet, and a silver bracelet from Tiffany & co. 

I do not have a picture of the exact outfit I was wearing at the picnic (other than the family photos that were taken, but we do not have those back from the photographer yet,) and the day was far too busy for me to snap a pic! The only differences between the above outfit and the one I wore this weekend are that this weekend I wore plain navy blue chino shorts (not Lilly Pulitzer fireworks shorts,) a pearl hammock necklace (instead of the pearl cluster necklace in the above picture,) and that I wore navy blue Sperry's instead of gold flip flops.

Though this outfit was theme-specific, it’s a great nautical inspired outfit in general. It’s classic and perfect for the summer time! 

The picnic itself was really fun. The “Football Fam,” really leans on each other year-round, but even more so during the season, so it was great to have everyone together in one place. Nobody really understands being in a coaching family unless you grow up in or marry into one. For starters- from July through October (late November if you’re lucky,) your dad (or husband, depending what shoes you’re in,) is NEVER home, and when they are home, they’re usually preoccupied with watching film, making practice/game plans, or are on the phone with other coaches. Very rarely do they have spare time. 

Secondly, some of the fans/ parents are absolutely horrendous. The coaches’ families are not easily mistakable. Pretty much everyone knows who we are. Not only are our families highly publicized, but you can pretty much guess who we are based on who we hug and kiss before and after games. When we’re having a winning season- everything is great, and people are very kind and gracious toward all of us. When seasons aren’t so great- that’s when sitting in the stands becomes rough. Most people are still absolutely amazing toward us, and our team has the most supportive fan base; however, there are more than a select few spectators who choose to make uncouth comments (putting it mildly.) Sometimes it’s easy to disregard them and just say a prayer- other times it takes everything inside of you to hold your tongue and turn the other cheek. This is why the Football Fam sticks together: because in the end, each other is all we have to hold on to on the Fridays that aren’t so celebratory.

It’s great to imagine that every football season plays out like it does in “Remember the Titans,” but it’s also extremely unrealistic. Last season, our team went 2-8 (for those who aren’t so sports-savvy, this means we won 2 games and lost 8-yikes.) A record that poor makes for some very on-edge spectators, leading to some very nasty comments being screamed from the stands. It’s also very easy for people to say “well, it’s just high school football,” but the truth is- it is so much more than that. Sure, for these boys football is just something to do during the Fall and on Friday nights. Maybe, if they’re good enough, it’s their ticket to college, but overall, nothing happens to them if they have a bad season. What people seem to so easily forget is that for our daddies (or husbands, once again, depending on the spot you’re in,) it’s their careers; and for our families- it’s our livelihood. Bad seasons can quickly lead to losing jobs, which is terrifying, because most of the time- losing seasons aren’t a coaching issue, they’re a result of a lack of talent. 

Nobody on the outside seems to understand the stress level of being a coach. Imagine if your career’s future was placed in the hands of teenage boys- pretty scary, right? Well, this is what coaches deal with. Yes- they absolutely chose their careers with this fact in mind; that’s undeniable, but, choosing this path does not make it any less frightening to pursue. These men do what they do for the love of the game, and because they love mentoring the young men on their teams; they also do it while balancing fatherhood and husbandry. 

Daddies who are coaches are the best kind, and let me tell you why. As a coach’s kid, you aren't “taught,” things as you grow up- you’re coached. What’s the difference, you ask?  Coaches encourage, they provide clear instruction, they instill perseverance and class- all of which combined are a recipe for success. 

Being in a coaching family is a completely different lifestyle- but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Coaching has provided my family with so many opportunities we NEVER would’ve had otherwise. Whether we like it 100% of the time or not-high school football is our lives, and it will always be a part of our identities. The Friday night lights will fade, and seasons will come and go, but our passion for football will never die- and neither will the bonds the Football Fam has built. Are any of you part of a coaching family? If so, how do you make the lifestyle work? I hope you all have a very blessed, wonderful day!

Forever on the fifty,

C

Welcome to Bows and Blitzes!

Hello my blogging people!

Welcome to Bows and Blitzes! My good friend, Jeremy, encouraged me to start a blog, so this is going to be my little creative corner of the internet. I will write about everything from friends, fashion, family, football (’tis my duty as a coach’s daughter,) to just my life in general! This is your glimpse into my preppy, fun, love-filled, stressful, crazy, beautiful life. I hope you all enjoy it and stick around for the ride we are about to embark on! 

Forever on the fifty,

C