Monograms on Monograms on Monograms

Happy Tuesday Bows and Blitzes! 

Obviously, I’m obsessed with all things monogrammed. But lately I have been suuuuuuper obsessed with these monogram necklaces! I’ve sent hem at several companies, including a local boutique. Have any of you purchased these necklaces? Do you have any recommendations as to where I should go? Let me know!

Forever on the 50,

C

Weekend Recap-9.29.14

Happy Monday B&B!

For starters, I apologize for the lack of posts from this weekend. My weekend was CRAZY and I did not have a spare minute. I am on Homecoming Court this year, and the game is Friday, October 3rd, so I have been ridiculously busy preparing for that. I am so honored to be on court- especially since it’s my dad’s team. This is something I’ve dreamed about since I was little and I cannot believe it’s all finally happening! I shopped all day Saturday (literally, all day. From the time the stores opened until they closed,) but I am positive that I found the perfect outfits/shoes. I want to wait until after the game to post pictures of my outfits, but have no fear-you will not be kept in the dark. As you can imagine, this week will be a flurry of court practices, finalizing reservations, ordering corsages and boutonnieres, hair appointments, nail appointments, figuring out makeup, decorating, etc, on top of the fact that my high school’s biggest recruitment events are this week, (which will be filled with dancing, singing, cheering, academia, and other extracurriculars,) all of which I am heavily involved with (on top of my normal schedule going on this week- yikes!) Come Sunday, after it’s all said and done, I just may sleep as late as humanly possible. This week is sure to be an exhausting one, but it will be worth all of the effort in all aspects. I cannot wait to see how everything plays out!

Are any of you on Homecoming Court?! What does your school do for homecoming?! Have a very blessed week!

Forever on the 50,

C

Football Friday/ Friday Favorites 9.26.14

Happy Friday B&B!

YOU MADE IT. It’s the weekend, baby! In my house, we’re praying for another W tonight. ICYMI, the Titans won last week. Thrilled was an understatement for the Football Fam. We’re road tripping again this week, but only about 45 minutes South instead of 3 hours. So much better. I can’t believe it’s already week 5 and we are halfway through the season. This Fall is absolutely FLYING. Morale is high, so say some prayers that the Titans can pull through!

On a non-football note, are y’all ready for some Friday Favorites?!

Favorite Drink: Diet Sierra Mist Cranberry Splash (I know, you’re all having heart palpitations that I didn’t say a PSL. Don’t worry, I’m still sippin’ on ‘em. Just thought I would switch it up for blog’s sake.)

Favorite Show: I really don’t watch much TV. To be honest, I really don’t have the time during the Fall. I’m so busy with school stuff, volleyball, volunteering, family commitments, and other extracurriculars that I really don’t have free time for TV. That being said, on lazy Sundays you bet your bottom dollar that I’m catching up on Rich Kids of Beverly Hills, Real Housewives of New Jersey, and Chrisley Knows Best. I’m also very excited for the Halloween episode of Pretty Little Liars, and American Horror Story to premiere for the year!

Favorite Accessory: I’m almost always rocking an arm party, so all of my bracelets, of course (which usually include my pearls, Tiffany & co. heart bracelet, infinity and pearl friendship bracelet, and a watch,) but I’ve also fallen back in love with my class ring. It looks so elegant and simple, but it’s still beautiful! 

Favorite Candle: Leaves by Bath and Body Works. It is literally Fall in a jar. Run, don’t walk, to your nearest store ASAP.

Favorite Way to Relax: Little known Fun Fact- I love to draw, and I’m pretty decent at it. It frees your mind, it’s a form of self expression, and it’s just downright fun. 

Have a safe weekend!

Forever on the 50,

C

Mums With Mom

Happy Thursday, Lovelies!

Thursday means it’s almost the weekend. Hang in there. I was at the store earlier this week, and I noticed how colorful all of the mums are! I love Fall (obviously,) and chrysanthemums are one of the reasons why. How cute are these pumpkin mums?! 

They would be totally ideal for your outdoor Fall decor. I cannot wait until my Mom and I start decorating for Fall! Gives me an excuse to get crafty ;)

How do you decorate for the Fall?!

Forever on the 50,

C

Falling for Vineyard Vines

Happy Wednesday my BBs!

 

I have a confession to make…I’m in love (with the new Vineyard Vines Fall collection.) Cozy sweaters, shirtdresses, and new printed sheep shirts, OH MY! Vineyard Vines is a preppy staple. They’re good quality, super adorable, and an American company. Above are a few of my favorites, which can be purchases here, here, here, here, and here (respectively.) Do you have any new faves for Fall?! 

Forever on the 50,

C

Ace of Spades

Helloooo Bows and Blitzes!

How cute is this Kate Spade bag?! I am completely obsessed. I like how it mixes neutrals, so you really can wear it with anything. The bow gives it a preppy touch, but the winged sides make it look like a Celine bag, so it’s still pretty high-fashion. It’s definitely an investment piece, but real leather bags like this are made to last forever if you take care of them. My mom has Coach bags from the 80s that still are in fantastic condition. Do you have any new favorite bags?! Talk to y’all again tomorrow!

Forever on the 50,

C

Sparkle Up Your Monday

Happy Monday, B & B!

I thought I would go ahead and share one of my senior pics with all of you! The reason I want to share is because of the hat. It’s a straw hat from Cappelli straw world that I purchased when I was down in Florida. Yes, It is a summer hat and now the season is officially Fall so the hat will be out of commission, but I was missing my vacay so I thought I may as well share! It has rhinestones all over it and I must say- I have been obsessed since I first laid eyes on it. 

Do any of you have this hat? I hope you all have a wonderful day!

Forever on the 50,

C

Weekend Recap

Happy Sunday, Bows and Blitzes-

It has been quite the weekend. Friday night, my dad’s team got their first win of the season (the pic above is of his interview before the game.) The fact that it was against their biggest rival makes it even sweeter! My family was borderline having heart palpitations all day/until the clock at the game hit 0:00, but it was very exciting! The whole Football Fam was on the field together celebrating after the game, and I must say- I loved every second of it. After the game, my friends and I went to BDubs (so high school,) and ran into a bunch of our buddies there. Everyone was hyped up, so it was a fun time!

Saturday was my low key day. I cleaned, watched college football, went to practice, cooked, and had a cup of tea with a Netflix night in (but rest assured I was decked out in my OSU gear: tee, leggings, slippers, hair bow, etc.) After all of Friday’s excitement (and the rest of the week being fast-paced,) it was a much needed respite. Call me nerdy, but documentaries called “The Secrets of King Henry VIII’s Palace,” indubitably scream my name. My English teacher always recommends “decaffeinated tea and chastity” on weekends; I think she would be pleased that I followed her orders.

Sunday was a Church and Volleyball day!

What did all of you do this weekend? Have a great Sunday!

Forever on the 50,

C

Football Friday/ Friday Favorites- 9.19.14

Happy Friday B&B!

Tonight, my daddy’s team plays their biggest rival, the other all-boy’s school in town. Going into this game 0-3 was not the game plan, but, nevertheless, the Titans are rolling with the punches. I, on the other hand, have knots in my stomach. I’m lucky enough to have the day off of school today, so I’m going to school with my dad so I can be in the “big game” atmosphere. I’m very excited to see what today/ tonight have in store for my family!

My favorites this week are probably no surprise to y’all at all. So, I apologize for being kind of basic. 

Favorite Snack: Pumpkin Spice Almonds by Planter’s. Go getchu some.

Favorite Shoes: My OSU slippers. Never wore them out of the house but they are oh-so-comfy.

Favorite Perfume: Juicy Couture, the original. It’s mature but still a youthful Fall/Winter scent.

Favorite Nail Polish: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in Wine Stock. Beautiful!

Favorite Accessory: My gold & aquamarine ring. I need to wear it more often than I do. Similar pic below!

Favorite Blog: Summerwind. It’s so adorable, and Sydney is one of the nicest people ever. She gave me fantastic advice when I was starting this blog! Plus, her style is the greatest I’ve ever seen. I want to be like her one day! Check it out if you’re looking for a great fashion blog (other than mine, of course:))

What are your Friday Favorites?! Have a safe weekend!

Forever on the 50,

C

Football Pumpkins

Happy Thursday B&B!

Are y’all as obsessed with this pumpkin as I am? I hope so. Maybe I’m crazy, but there’s just something about Fall that puts me in a crafty mood. I cannot wait until October is here so that I can finally start doing this stuff again!

What are your favorite Fall Crafts? See all of you tomorrow for Friday Favorites!

Forever on the 50,

C

Favorite Parts of Football

Happy Wednesday B&B!

Obviously, I’ve grown up around football. It literally is my lifestyle, and no matter how difficult this lifestyle is, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. There’s just something about those Friday Night Lights that keeps my family engaged. I’d be a liar if I said there was only one perk, so without further ado, my favorite things about football (in no particular order.)

• The weather is perfect. Sixty is chilly enough for coats and boots, but you don’t necessarily need a parka.
• The Football Fam. Probably my favorite part of all of it, to be completely honest. I love the other coaches’ wives and kids. It’s just so comforting to have someone who “gets it.” They’re also some of the kindest, strongest, closest-knit people I’ve ever met, and I am so blessed to have them all in my life.
• Pre-game Starbucks. This doesn't even need a description.
• Post-game Starbucks. When you lose and still have to drive 3 hours home, you need something to pull you through.
• The first touchdown of the game. Not only does it garner the most excitement, but it’s usually the best play because the boys aren’t tired yet.
• The kind fans. Nothing is better than a hug of support and encouragement from one of the players’ moms.
• Watching my dad do what he does best. I drove down to the game last week with one of the coach’s wives, and she hit the nail on the head. “The game is in their blood,” she said, and she couldn’t be more accurate. These men are coaches, that’s what God called them to do, and what they do best. Nothing in this world is better than seeing my daddy shine on that sideline on Fridays.
• Singing the alma mater after a victory.
• Decades-old rivalries that will never die.
• The people-watching is absolutely fantastic.
• Seeing the old generations that have already had their glory days next to the youngest generations who are still waiting for their Football Fridays to come.
• Football season fashion. It’s on point.
• Knowing that, even in times of strife, God is watching over and protecting these young men as they play (to me, that’s pretty awesome.)
• Getting out of school for “family appointments,” which are actually my dad’s pep rallies.
• Being apart of one of the most American things you can be a part of.

What are your favorite parts of football season?

Forever on the 50,

C

Vests Galore

Good Morning Bows and Blitzes!

One of my very favorite fashion staples for Fall/Winter are vests! They come in so many colors. The key to a great vest is finding one that flatters, not one that makes you look like a marshmallow (although, with the winter Ohio apparently has coming, we may need the extra warmth.) My favorites are from J.Crew and Lilly Pulitzer! Do you have a favorite vest? Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Forever on the 50,

C

Motivational Monday

Happy Monday B&Bers!

Just a friendly reminder to keep your heads up! You absolutely can do it. Take a deep breath, regroup, and pull yourself together, because it’s a beautiful life, and you are ready to make the most of it. 

Forever on the 50,

C

Football Friday/Friday Favorites

HEY KIDS.

As you read this, I am road tripping my fanny 3 hours south for my dad’s game (the things I do for Titan football.) We’re hoping to break our losing streak this week! This week has been decently paced, so I’ve had some down time to think about my faves.

Favorite Accessory: Lululemon headband. I’m loving the no-slip, especially for my volleyball games.

Favorite Drink: Starbucks PSL still going very, very strong.

Favorite Treat: Caramel Apple Pops. My mom brought some home from Kroger and I’ve been loving life ever since.

Favorite Song: This Is How We Do by Katy Perry. I can’t relate in the slightest, but man, is it catchy.

Favorite Shoes: Blackwatch Plaid Sperry Top-Siders.

Favorite Fall Scent: Leaves by Bath and Body Works. Smells like fall in a candle.

What are your favorites from this week?! Have a safe Friday.

Forever on the 50,

C

Oops J.Crew Did It Again

Happy Thursday Lovelies!

They did it again. J.Crew continues to capture my heart. How comfy do these J.Crew jammies look?! It’s getting cooler here in Ohio, and I am longing for flannel pj nights. Not only do these seem like they would keep you toasty, but they’re absolutely adorable as well. Maybe I’m just a sucker for plaid!

See you tomorrow for Friday Favorites!

Forever on the 50,

C

Football Game Essentials

Happy Wednesday!

I hope with all of my heart that y’all are having a fantastic Hump Day! Friday night, my dad plays out of town again- almost 3 hours away to be exact. So, Seeing as I’m going on a road trip, and the weather is getting chillier (yay!) I thought there was no better time to make a “Football Game Essentials,” post! (in no particular order.)

• Tunes for the ride there. Whether it’s a 20 minute drive or a 3 hour one, you’re going to want a good playlist. “The Boys of Fall” by Kenny Chesney should definitely be on it.
• Snacks. This is where you have some leeway. If you’re tailgating, you’re going to want more substantial food than if you aren’t. “Snacks” can range from pretzels and cookies to pizza and candy, it all depends on your specific scenario.
• Hoodie/Jacket/Scarf/gloves. In my lifetime, I have learned that no matter what point in the year it is, you can never get away with not having at least a hoodie at a football game. Maybe it’s just Ohio, but even if it’s 90 degrees during the day, it’s cooling down to 60 once the sun is gone. The temps only get colder as the season progresses, so do yourself a favor and keep your gear in your car.
• Hand warmers. For similar reasons as above. Usually, these aren’t necessary until October, but it’s always good to have them handy.
• Blankets. You can put them down so you aren’t sitting directly on a bleacher, or you can wrap yourself up in case you forget your hoodie/jacket/scarf/gloves. There’s a million uses.
• Towels. Nothing is worse than sitting on cold, wet metal. Bring some towels to dry your seat if it’s a rainy day.
• Umbrellas. Here in Ohio, Football season is the rainy season. Forget your umbrella, and you’re going to be one soggy spectator.
• Cash. I know, I know. Everyone uses debit/credit cards. But cash is essential at a football game. Concessions, programs, and tickets are all cash-bought. Stop by the ATM on your way to the game, you’ll thank me later.
• A Camera. Maybe this one is personal for me, or maybe it’s not. I see nothing wrong with taking cute shots in the stands. At the very worst, you end up with some football pictures that you can always delete later!
• Appropriate footwear. Do not confuse this with “sensible” footwear. There is a difference, and this is a fashion blog, after all. If the forecast calls for 40 degrees, wear your uggs. If it’s supposed to be 60, riding boots or Sperry’s. If it’s rainy, wear your Hunter Boots. Use your head- you’re all intelligent people!

What are your “Football Game Essentials?”

Forever on the 50,

C

So You Think You Can Craft?

Happy Tuesday B & B!

 

Sunday, I was on Pinny (Pinterest,) and I found some uber cute Fall crafts. Aren’t they adorable? I think I may need to run to Hobby Lobby/JoAnn’s/Michael’s this week…

Do any of you have Fall craft ideas? I hope You have a great Tuesday!

Forever on the 50,

C

25 Reasons You Should Be With A "Nerd"

Good Morning B & B!

You know those guys who, all of a sudden, you realize are absolutely perfect? I had a few of those moments this weekend. One thing they have in common? They’re nerds. They’re overlooked during high school because girls would rather date the captain of the baseball team, or they’re lucky enough to be cool nerds, but are too busy to have social lives. These are the guys you want/ need to date and marry, for multiple reasons. But most importantly, because I said so ;)

Dedication is their middle name. You think he got a 36 on the ACT without dedication? As if. He knows how to persevere and keep trying, something you need in a relationship.

They’re so nice.

Like, the nicest guys ever.

Because they’re not mean to girls because they know it’s wrong

There’s a good shot he’s absolutely brilliant

Think of the conversations you two could have because of said brilliance

Oh, the places he’ll go

Oh, the diamond you could potentially obtain because of said places he’ll go in life

He’s probably really close to his parents

He may not have been that cute early on, but run into him down the road and he’s added a button-down, a tie, and has taken off his glasses, and you, my friend, have yourself a first place prize.

He’s also probably very logical

And you know you aren’t

So, he totally balances you out.

He’s also probably the one who keeps you in check

He most likely plays a real instrument ($10 says it’s guitar or piano,) so he can always entertain you

If you get married and have kids, your children will have fantastic genetics, because, like, his brain

He’ll pull out your chair for you

And open doors

And help you with your coat

Basically, he’s a gentleman in every sense of the word

Because his parents raised him properly

He probably has a 5 year plan, which is much better than someone whose only plans include taking shots and throwing parties

He’s definitely graduating on time

He’ll listen to you, because he’s constantly in a pursuit of knowledge, and he knows you may teach him a thing or two

Because ultimately, “nerds” (i.e. smart guys who spend their weekends at football games and doing AP Calc homwork,) are the only ones who genuinely care about you and will treat you right, and that’s the truth.

Have a fantastic week, dolls!

Forever on the 50,

C

Classic and "Time"-less

Happy Saturday B&B

Last night’s game was a doozie- in fact, it’s not even finished yet. The game got called for lightening, and the score was 31-7 when it was called (it wasn’t even half time, and the score was not in favor of the titans.) Instead of calling it a complete game, the opposing coach is insisting on finishing today. That’s right, he’s not just taking the win (that his boys have earned,) he’s insisting on scoring more. More on the game to come tomorrow.

But on the bright side, Dillard's has a Fall watch lineup that is to die for. I’m not joking- they’re absolutely gorgeous. I’m a huge fan of watches to begin with, and I believe they should be added to almost every arm party. Watches come in so many styles and sizes that there’s really never an excuse to not be wearing one. There’s also a watch for every price range. Something about wearing a watch is just classic, and I personally believe they’ll never go out of style. 

Stating the obvious- Michael Kors has fantastic watches (they’re my personal favorite.) Granted, everybody and their mother has a Michael Kors watch, but with good reason. They’re gorgeous, excellent quality, and come in a range of styles and sizes, so everyone is bound to find one they love.

Another fantastic choice is Marc Jacobs waches for similar reasons as Michael Kors. They’re fairly comparable.

 

Kate Spade- need I say more? Give me all of them in every color.

Those are just a few of my favorites! Do you all wear a watch? Do you have any favorites? I hope you’re all having a fantastic weekend!

Forever on the 50,

C

Fall Playlist 2014

Happy, Happy, Happy Thursday, Dolls!

I am a firm believer in the notion that the best way to get to know someone is by looking through their music library. Sure, the best way to become someone’s friend is to never treat them as a stranger, but don’t we all know plenty of people we wouldn’t necessarily consider our friends? Either way, you can learn a lot about someone from their music taste. Music speaks to and feeds the soul, so what flows into your ears is important. I have a very eclectic taste in music. My Itunes ranges from Kenny Chesney to Lana Del Rey (my all time favorite,) Billy Joel to Fall Out Boy, and 50 Cent to Taylor Swift. I truly appreciate anyone’s musical talent and will listen as long as it doesn’t make my ears bleed. That being said, I unconsciously tend to listen to “darker” music (if you will) come Fall/ Winter time. It’s never planned, and I almost always realize it after the fact. Plus, the lyrics are never really “dark” in nature- the songs are usually just slower and more subdued than Summer jams. I’m a big fan of playlists, and I look for excuses to make them constantly; so, I thought to myself, “why not make a Fall playlist?”

Dust- Eli Young Band

Take Me to Church- Hozier

Head Full of Dount/Road Full of Promises- The Avett Brothers

Gods and Monsters- Lana Del Rey

The Sun Is Rising- Britt Nicole

Amnesia- 5 Seconds of Summer

When a Heart Breaks- Ben Rector

Goodbye Girl- Luke Bryan

Never Stop (Wedding Version)- Safetysuit

Ultraviolence- Lana Del Rey

The Scientist- Coldplay

Shades of Cool- Lana Del Rey

What are your favorite Fall songs? I hope you all have a fantastic Thursday!

Forever on the 50,

C

Making My Way Downtown...

Happy Wednesday!

How cute is this Downtown Field Jacket from J.Crew? It’s absolutely perfect for everything from Friday night football to a coffee run on a random Tuesday. I’m really loving it in navy but then again half of my closet is navy, so don’t mind me. It also comes in black and brown, so you’re likely to find a neutral that you can get a lot of use out of. A jacket like this will last for a long time, and it’s fairly timeless, so it can be worn for years to come!

I hope you all are having a fantastic hump day!

Forever on the 50,

C

Fall Bucket List

Happy Tuesday, lovelies!

(Side note: how cute is this baby? Thanks again, Pinterest.)

I hope you all had the most fantastic Labor Day Weekend! Recently, I’ve compiled a list of things I want to do this season (a “Fall Bucket List” if you will.) Without further ado, here’s my list!

• Get Fall scented candles
• Go apple picking
• Go on a hay ride
• Find fall crafts on pinterest
• Make aforementioned Fall Crafts
• Host a Bonfire
• Make Fall recipes
• Visit a pumpkin patch
• Go to a haunted house
• Paint pumpkins
• Go on a nature walk (bring the camera!)
• Go to a corn maze
• Carve pumpkins
• Make a pretty Fall wreath
• Have a Halloween movie marathon
• Make Caramel apples
• Take fun Fall pictures with my friends

Do any of you have any “Fall Bucket List” ideas? Leave them in the comments!

I hope you all have a very blessed Tuesday!

Forever on the 50,

C

Blessed

Happy Labor Day Monday Bows & Blitzes!

I’m sitting here this morning drinking my coffee and reading a book (a much needed respite from my usual chaotic life,) and it donned on me how blessed I am (not that I don’t realize it every other day, but today the notion was especially prominent.) I have everything I could ever need and much, much more. The fact that I am able to enjoy the little things in life is absolutely surreal. I’ve decided that the rest of the day, as I go about my business, I’m just going to reflect on how abundantly God has blessed me (I encourage all of you to do the same.) So if any of you are having a rough morning, just take a deep breath, say a quick prayer, and remember things can always be considerably worse.

What are y’all thankful for? I hope you have a fantastic day!

Forever on the 50,

cPe