It’s September, so I am officially only wearing crewneck sweatshirts for the next eight months, even if I have to live through Iowa’s second summer in the middle of October (iykyk).
Because I love fall as much as Hobby Lobby loves Christmas, here is my fall edit for what to grab for your closet and some positive mantras to carry in your heart as you walk into this next season of new routines, big transitions, and hurried school schedules.
Pumpkin Patching:
Dry Goods Eunina Rocky Boyfriend Jeans: Because Gen Z canceled my skinnies and I still need some stretch in my jeans. PS: if you’re short, just chop the hem off. I’m 5’2” and had to cut off about 6 inches!
Old Navy crewneck sweatshirt: I’m always looking for my next favorite crewneck sweatshirt. This one is a good one – perfectly oversized without swallowing my body.
Patagonia Hip Pack: If you want to feel not-so-basic or can’t get your hands on the cult fav Lululemon belt bag, I love the Patagonia hip sling. It’s a similar size as Lululemon’s, but comes in bright color combos and has an outside pocket for the elusive set of keys I’m always searching for.
Amazon Apple Watch Band – Rose: Channel your Barbie vibes and swap out your watch band for something obnoxiously neon. I love hot pink and anything that costs less than $10. (And if you’re not team pink, it comes in 17 colors).
Sorel Joan of Arctic Wedge Lexie Bootie: These boots are actually comfy even with a high wedge. They won’t be your go-to’s for a hike, but I can run errands, walk around the block, or trek through a pumpkin patch and not have tired feet. I also have a wide foot and these don’t make my pinky toes unhappy.
Family Photos:
Bohme Willa Ruffle Dress: Most flattering, comfy dress you’ll ever own. I have it in multiple colors and am now eyeing this color for holiday photos too.
Noonday Collection Crest Earrings: Noonday is my go-to for a statement earring. The company creates gorgeous and unique jewelry and accessories made by artisans across the globe and supports people in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.
Chilly Days:
North Face Cragmont Fleece Jacket: Step aside black fleece, color is having its moment. Grab one of these fleeces in a fun color (or really, black is cool too). They’re the perfect weight for a fall day and loose enough to pop over a sweater. *Plus sizes available too!*
Target throw blanket: For when Iowa’s fall feels more like Alaska’s winter and you just need to wear a blanket, this is one of my favorites from Target – super soft, doesn’t shed, dog and child-approved.
Sorel Kinetic Impact Strap Sneaker: I wear these through fall and winter and will most likely buy a new pair every year. They’re easy to slip on and off, perfect for when your toes need more warmth than Birkenstocks, but are lightweight and offer great support for when you pass 18 and can’t wear $20 flats from Target anymore. Size 1/2 size down!
“I will be present”
Slow the chase of doing more. Undo the schedule and give yourself the grace to change your mind, to cancel plans, and to stay at home when the hurry is too much. Choose presence over perfection and keep the pace that is meant for you.
“I will honor my own growth”
Growth lends itself to impatience and comparison. It whispers or sometimes yells, that we haven’t reached our destination and the place where we thought we would be is far from where our feet stand today. Even in moments of heartache or overwhelming worry, this too is part of our journey. We are walking, sometimes crawling, on a path that is carving us into the exact woman we were made to be.
“I will allow joy and peace”
Even when you are squeezing too much life in too few hours, let your audacious dreams live in the crevices of your day. You are worthy of filling the gaps with honoring the woman who has come so far – even if far doesn’t seem to match the expanse it seems your friends have traveled. You can steal those moments for you – to dream, to breathe, to find joy and peace.
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