Have A Little Faith?

{Blogged over the Greatest Showman soundtrack} Happy Wednesday! I am not sure why I made the effort today to come to the blog and write. Its been a while. #lifeisabsolutelycrazy Writing always makes me feel better, calmer, more focused and a little more centered.   Last night, I stumbled upon a news story that involved horrific abuse to a 2 year old boy by his mother and father. Unmentionable, heart-breaking, soul-crushing abuse that, 36 hours after injury, when his parents finally brought him to the hospital, he ultimately died from.  2 years old, and probably very little of that time filled with any sort of love or joy.  We see so much tragedy on a daily basis that I sometimes feel like we become immune to it. 

But not this story. Not this time. 

This tragedy- and the picture of the smiling tow-headed boy that accompanied it- stayed with me. I raged and cried to my husband, I cried helplessly while trying to sleep, I cried when I woke up this morning.  At the best of times, I am a highly empathetic person who tears up at the drop of a hat, but this has weighed so heavy on me. Being a mother of a 20 month old little boy myself might have something to do with it, but it occurred to me today- as it has so many times in the past- that children are excruciatingly vulnerable, and there is nothing more than a dice roll that determines the parents we get. Are you the unfortunate recipient of a mother who spends her money on her nails (or drugs) instead of diapers? Or a dad that is short-tempered or cruel or disinterested?  Everyone I know takes parenting so seriously- from the food we feed our children, to schoolwork, to their activities-- that we forget there is a whole world out there of emotionally and physically neglected, abused children.  I want to scoop up every child (and dog!) and bring them to live with me in a loving home.  

I wasn't sure where to turn, so I turned to God and I prayed. It still didn't feel like enough and I have to admit that here is where my faith is always tested the most-- because how can we believe in a benevolent loving God in a world where terrible things are allowed to happen to innocents?  It bothers me, this.  But I prayed about it and here I am, feeling a bit better but wanting so much to roll up my sleeves and help somewhere.  I lead a life that is as busy as everyone's and finding time to volunteer seems daunting. Donating money doesn't seem like enough.  I am going to find a path for good here and just TRY to do something.  I think we live in a world where people constantly proclaim themselves blessed, but so much of those basic blessings are things beyond our control.  I think I want to count my blessings, yes, always, but also try to give to those who don't have these same blessings. 

This is a heavy post, but I hope that's ok.  The world is a heavy place and there are times when it feels good to turn to this beautiful community, because its a reminder that good people are still out there.    Sending love and brighter days to us all- Sweetly Michelle

Floral set (similar) Here, Here, Here  Here and Here

Purses (similar) Here

Shoes (similar) Here and Here

What Motherhood Means to Me (Part 2)

{Written after reading When Breath Becomes Air... Sooo good} Hello dearest reader! This is the second in my little motherhood series and here, my mom answers some of my questions.  It was amazing to me that when I became a mother, I became part of a club whose members (mommies) had so much wisdom and insight.  I find myself asking for advice or input from other moms all the time- not only do I think it is healthy to admit that you don't know all of the answers (hint: no one does!), but it's wonderful to share experiences and tips with others who are going through the same things.   It is an incredible lifelong group that I am so proud to be included in.  

There is no question that everything I know about being a mother, I learned from my mom. She is the most positive, selfless, supportive, loving, sweet person ever.   I tell everyone that any success I've ever had in my life is because my mom made sure that we knew there was a net under us at all times.  That net was the unconditional love she (and my dad) had for me.  It's very easy to chase your dreams in life when you know that no matter what you do,  whether you succeed or fail, your family is 100% behind you. Unquestionably, and without judgment-- just support and love.  It is so important to me that my children will know this – – that no matter what they do, what decisions they make, wherever their hearts might take them, I will be right there, cheering them on, raising them up, and covering them with love.    

In honor of Mother's Day, I sat down with my mom (over a chocolate chip cookie and a cup of ☕️) and asked her some questions about motherhood.

GDSL: What do you think is the very best thing about being a mother (besides, obviously, having me for a daughter, ha ha)?

The very best thing about being a mother is the love you feel. Having your heart grow with so much love and loving someone in a way you could never imagine before becoming a mother.

GDSL: Isn't that the most unexpected thing? This little being comes out and within a second, you would lay down your life and do anything...ANYTHING... for this child.   What do you think is the most important thing a mother can give a child?

In my opinion, the most important things to give a child would be unconditional love, strong values, and a great family foundation. As a mom, I knew that if I instilled values in my children and created an unbreakable family unit, they would go out in the world as confident, good, loving human beings.  And I am proud that they did. 

GDSL:  Aww!  That is so sweet.   I feel like I learn from my child everyday....What did you learn about yourself through motherhood?

That you will never feel like you know the right answer.  That you will need to ask for help.  That some days are long and exhausting and those will be followed by beautiful days that seem like a dream.  That motherhood, like life, is a marathon and not a sprint-- and the collection of days are what matter.  I learned that my greatest pride and love come from being a mother. I learned that my capacity to give and care are limitless.  I learned that to be a mother really is about teaching and shaping and hopes and dreams for these little people that you love.  Motherhood has been my greatest journey. 

GDSL: Gosh, that is the perfect answer.  I know those feelings and how connected you can feel to the sadness and the happiness of your child-- how you want the best for them at all times...How is being a grandmother different from being a mother?

I don't know if there's any difference between being a mother than a grandmother. The love you have for your daughter and then to become a grandmother is so special on many levels. I'm a grandmother to my daughter's child. I fell in love with her as soon as she was born (actually before she was born). At that moment I remembered becoming a mother myself and the overwhelming love I had for my own daughter. Now I'm seeing my daughter entering motherhood.  It's the beautiful circle of life. 

GDSL: There is a little baby boy in my tummy--how do you think this baby will fit into our lives?

This little guy is already loved so much and he is going to fit into our family perfectly.  He has a big sister who is over the moon to have a little brother and he is going to be smothered with love by his cousins and aunts and uncles.  A baby is a beautiful blessing and now, its about making memories together.

GDSL:  It's true.  I knew as soon as I found out I was pregnant that telling my daughter would be the very best part.  She wakes me up with kisses on my belly and must say 15 times a day "Tell baby brother I love him". It is the sweetest, purest thing and it gets me emotional every time.   You've watched me and guided me through motherhood – – what has been your favorite part of that?

Pride and joy fills my heart as I watch you as a mother.  You are an amazing mother-- so loving, kind, attentive and always there for every one of Addison's needs, guiding her to be polite, thoughtful, kind and considerate. Addison is truly blessed to have you as her mother.

GDSL: (Blushing)...That is so nice!  I think we are all blessed....

Happy Mother's Day to all of the mommies out there- in every form motherhood takes (to 4 legged babies too). Moms are heroes to me, each and every one of you! Hope everyone has a beautiful day...Sweetly, Michelle

NYFW: Day 1

Hi beautiful reader!! I had the absolute extreme good fortune to be able to attend around 48 hours(ish) of New York Fashion Week and what an amazing time I had.  If you are a woman and haven't been, like, dropped on your head, the chance to attend even 5 minutes of NYFW is a dream, am I right? And NYC... I am going to talk about this place a little later but for now, all you need to know about me and NYC is that I would do just about anything to spend a moment in this incredible city.  And what was the cherry on top? Spending this trip with my beautiful friend Vanessa @whatwouldvwear. Putting NYFW aside, the trip would have been equally perfect if it was just she and I, running around Manhattan (coffee and cookies in hand), shopping and seeing and laughing.

The shows were at Skylight at Moynihan Station.  I have no idea where this actually was.  It felt like we were sort of in the middle of Manhattan but one can never be sure. We did not use our Uber apps because predictably, my phone was always dead and who remembers to bring a portable charger? Oh wait, everyone. Everyone did! Whoops. I missed so many incredible shots because of what I will call "technical difficulties" 😘  and guess who I met in front of the shows? Yes! A little fluffy furry friend! With a nice owner who allowed me to borrow his pup!🐶🐩

We were able to go backstage at Tibi, which was pretty incredible. It was just as I expected it would be-- like a little bee-hive of activity with hair and makeup and just... people swarming everywhere. And Aveda was back there too, with their products and giving us hand massages and hair- dos (note to all who care: the low tousled pony is in! Who knew!?)

I was also able to meet some lovely bloggers at the Retreat at Vogue party. It was a little oasis of grey velvet and pictures of Anna Wintour. And the gift bags were unreal! Everyone was so nice and gracious!

So this entire outfit is head to toe Zara. How cute are these shoes, for crying out loud and oh my gosh! And comfy. Seriously. I hoofed it all over the place and not a blister in sight! It was perfect because it was light and airy and polished.  And it kind of looked like a Tibi outfit.  Its navy, and the top is completely sheer, so I just wore a little shell underneath. Perfect. Check back later in the week for more of my lovely adventures in the loveliest of cities! Happy Tuesday to you! xx Michelle

Top: Here ||  Pants:  Here ||  Shoes: Here  ||. Bag:  Here. || Cuff: @vwearcollection

Miami Vice Made Nice









I bought this blazer with the sheath (and matching pants) from Benetton. If you live in Orange County like I do, you will remember that there used to be a store in Fashion Island and one in South Coast Plaza right across from the carousel. I was obsessed with this store. I have been wearing their suits since law school and I just find that they have a really nice corporate aesthetic and are very reasonably priced--cute suits, cardigans and pencil skirts --and winter coats that always have a pop of faux fur on the cuff or collar (this girl is a sucker for faux fur. And feathers!)  When the South Coast store closed down, it was a dark day indeed, but it was replaced by Sugarfina, so the day brightened up in a hurry (because I am a candy-aholic!)! Now, I shop online and I still love everything I get!  The jacket is HERE the dress is HERE and the pants are HERE.  Everything is Italian sizing, so you will need to convert and figure out your size but there is a handy little chart on the website: www.us.benetton.com I really like this all white look, but you have to use caution for work (and not just when you are eating. Or drinking. Or using a blue pen!)  Bright neon shoes? Um, no. Way too Crockett and Tubbsy (names I had to Google, by the way!)  All black heels? Probably a better choice. I gave these floral guys a go and its a good pairing.  The pants looks great with this blazer for dinner or drinks with maybe a white tank underneath and strappy heels.   While I did not take my own advice ( I was busy last week, sheesh!), a spray tan or self tanner is probably a good idea with this color.  Anyone else obsessed with this all white look? Have any cute outfit ideas you'd care to share? I'd love to hear them all!  Hope you are all having an amazing week! xo Michelle