When You Get the Choice

Have you ever been driving down the road listening to music and suddenly you're moved by the lyrics? What about when your doing dishes in your kitchen listening to Pandora and a song comes on that moves you to tears? Has that ever happened to you? It happens to me all the time. Maybe I'm just ultra-aware of lyrics or maybe I'm a weirdo super emotional, or both. The latter is probably true. Either way, that scenario happened to me this morning. I was in the kitchen emptying the dishwasher, my least favorite chore, when a cover of the song "I hope you dance" started playing by an artist named Karen Waldrup. I've heard this song a million times, as you probably have as well. What made this rendition or this scenario different than any other? Allow me to share what happens when you get the choice...

This past year has been a big year for me in every way possible: personally, emotionally, relationally, spiritually and professionally. I took some major leaps of faith. I took a few steps backwards in a few areas and several leaps forward in others. I sought help with situations. I've wrestled with my heart and my mind a lot this year, probably more than any other year in my life. I made some life-altering decisions for myself and my family. So what does all of that have to do with the song "I hope you dance", and why did I get so emotional upon hearing it this morning?

First, let me share the lyrics with you for you to read over quickly.

This past year I was hungry. Not in the literal sense, but in the "I desired more out of life" sense. I was hungry to take control of my life and start living with purpose and passion. I wanted to start living a life that I was proud of, that my family would be proud of, and that I was proud to share with others. Prior to 2016, I took a lot of my life for granted (and still do, if I'm honest) and I was constantly trying to come up for air, always feeling like I was coming up just a little empty handed. I felt small in a lot of ways. I felt like I'd given up on a lot of my passions and heart's desires. In a lot of ways, I gave up on trusting God and his plan for my life (versus my amazing plan for my life). I settled for situations that I should've fought harder for in the moment. I feared the mountains in my life, afraid to climb them because they'd be too treacherous. I never used to take chances because fear would cripple me; other's opinions of me would weigh too heavily on my decisions. I was bitter in some of my relationships. I was not giving God the time He most definitely deserves and I was sitting out on many areas of my life because it simply seemed easier to just sit it out. 

Here's where the song hit me this morning. In 2016, I had the choice to dance a lot of different dances, some of which I pursued with bold ambition and others I chose to sit out. I came close to selling out, but then I reconsidered. I felt compelled to write this today because I know so many of you are choosing to sit this one out, but I'm challenging you to reconsider.

Maybe you have lost your sense of wonder and excitement about life. You aren't hungry anymore because you're allowing non-valuable things in life to fill you up {discontentment, fear, bitterness, resentment, anger, anxiety, the list goes on and on). You have started to take your life for granted and you are left often feeling empty-handed. I've been there. You've had doors slammed in your face, maybe literally or maybe just figuratively, and you've decided to just allow them to stay shut instead of trying to open another door. You haven't given the heavens above more than just a passing glance and often that glance is only given when you need something. You have overwhelming fear of the mountains off in the distance, or maybe the ones right in front of you, and you've settled thinking this is just how your life is going to be or you've allowed anxiety to cripple you, thus keeping you from even attempting to climb. You aren't living life or taking chances. Plain and simple...you've settled.

Sound familiar? I think that's a place almost all of us have been at some point in our lives. We all settle. We all have overwhelming fears that keep us from doing the things we want to do. We all push God aside because it's easy to think we can handle life on our own. (Obviously, this isn't true because you wouldn't be reading this post still if you had life all figured out). Let's be honest, we all have hundreds of opportunities a day to DANCE, but do we? 

Here's the kicker! As the song states so perfectly, "time is a wheel in constant motion always rolling us along. Tell me, who wants to look back on their years and wonder where those years have gone?" Do you want to look back on your life and think about all of those times you chose to sit it out instead of dancing? I know I don't. I decided last year when I came close to selling out, to reconsider instead. I chose to dance more, not literally, but as it relates to taking chances, doing uncomfortable things, and chasing dreams. I've decided to live a life that seeks to point to Jesus, that inspires others and that brings joy to other people. So, I challenge you today to take a risk this year. Do something that scares you. Open a door and run through it without looking back, even if it's a door that's previously been closed. Do something that brings you joy and do it fiercely. I encourage you to NOT let fear run you. Don't let what other people think stop you from pursing something that sets your soul on fire. I urge you to give the heavens more than just a passing glance because if I've learned anything this year, it's that the only thing in my life that will ever truly fulfill all of my needs and desires in manner that has my best interest and future at heart, is Jesus. I just want you to experience some of the freedom that I've felt since I decided to "dance".

So, all of that to say, if you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I really do hope you dance! XO!

Thrifty Tip Thursday: Styling the Kids

Did you know that I love to shop? Uh duh, Chelsea, there's no denying that obvious fact. Unlike most though, I primarily like to shop at thrift stores. I know, another shocking discovery! Were it not for tampons, food, and toiletries, I could probably never step foot in a real store again. Eh, that's a lie, but you get the gist. If you're anything like me in the least, then you like to look fashionable and you like not giving over  an arm or a leg to do so. You want to know a secret, though? As much as I love finding amazing deals for myself, I love finding them for my two year daughter even more. I mean let's get real for a second, she basically gets new clothing every few weeks anyway because she is growing like a dang weed after a rain storm. She is constantly outgrowing things and her feet? Lord, just slow down already. So, from an economical standpoint and a necessity standpoint, thrifting for our daughter is the most sensible option. Otherwise, we'd be broke as a joke.

The easiest way to break it down for y'all is just to share with you not only sample pieces that I've found for her at thrift stores, but also how I shop for her and how I style her outfits. I'm that crazy mom that likes to dress her toddler like an actual little person instead of a toddler. Do I care if other people put their kids in Minnie Mouse or Paw Patrol clothes on the reg? Nope, not a bit. I just prefer for Emerson to wear clothes similar in taste to what I would wear. I guess it's the fashionista in me or something. I don't ask questions.

First up, let's just browse some individual items that have ALL been thrifted recently and are ALL name brand and in like new condition, shall we? These are just a few of the many, many thrifted items. Literally, we have bins full of thrifted clothes that she's outgrown (saving for the future).

YES, I buy her sleepwear from thrift stores. You wouldn't BELIEVE how many like new pajamas are at thrift stores just waiting for their next little dreamer. Kids outgrow these things in a heartbeat, so sure, I'll take it + save me $10!

Secondly, let's talk how I find the gems versus those items never to be worn again-why didn't you just throw it out in the first place. I browse for colors and patterns I like first. If something catches my eye, I'll view it. I completely check it for wear and tear, then I check it for price. Usually kids clothing is one of the cheapest things at a thrift store. Most I've found are $2-3 or less, which mean on sales days they're like $1. I don't only buy name brand, but I would be lying if I said I don't check the tag, too. I like searching for brands that I know fit her well and that will last: Old Navy, Target, Osh Kosh,  Gap, Children's Place, etc. I am always looking for pjs and leggings because we tend to go through those the quickest in terms of wear + tear. Also important to note, much like with my clothes, I always think about the versatility and functionality of the item. I try to stick to items that can be styled multiple ways, which you'll see down below in just a bit. My rule for myself is if it can't be styled 3 ways, don't get it. I try to apply that to Emerson, too. If you can only wear an item one way, chances are it won't get worn very often and it'll end up being a waste of money. Not always, but that's usually my experience.

So, you've seen what CAN be found. You've heard HOW I shop. Now, let's SHOW YOU how to style your little one to be a mini-fashionista. And, let's get the most bang for your buck. Here we go!

This jean jacket + these leggings were thrifted find sfor under $2 each {both from Old Navy}. The dress is Old Navy clearance + the boots are from Walmart. Here's some ways I've styled it:

This entire outfit including shoes was thrifted. (Bow excluded)

This little swing dress is from Old Navy. It's a size 18 month. It fit her like a dress during the summer, but now at 28 months {TWO} works like a tunic top under sweaters, sweatshirts and jackets. Boots are $11 from Walmart. Bow is DIY. Leggings thrifted. 

 Two more ways to wear this little twin dress. Blue sweatshirt from Target boys section + leopard sweatshirt + bow from Walmart. The stripped leggings were thrifted.

These 3 dresses are not Emerson's current size, so they no longer are dress length, but guess what? They still fit well as tunic-style shirts. So, when purchasing dresses for little girls, think ahead to whether they'll eventually work as shirts or not. These are some of my favorites. The pink + denim was thrifted {Carters}, the other two are from Old Navy clearance.

Two different ways to style the dresses-turned- tunic shirts. The black boots are from Walmart and the leggings were thrifted. Thrift stores are the jam for leggings, y'all! I always find TONS, especially the denim-like ones. The dress below was also thrifted and will fit her throughout the coming year as a dress, but it also works well with leggings. DOUBLE WIN! Pink sweater thrifted + jelly shoes are from Old Navy. The jellies were all she wore this past summer. She had them in 3 colors!

This next denim dress was also thrifted, but is from babyGap. It works great as a dress right now, but can also double as a tunic as she grows. The white cardigan was thrifted {Carters} and both boots + bows from Walmart. The socks are from Ross.

 Speaking of Ross! I always checkout the kids' section when I'm in there. As Emerson has gotten older, I've had a tougher time finding 24mo stuff for her, but occasionally you'll find a gem like this little Carters tutu shirt for $5.

The below outfits were all created using thrifted + Walmart pieces.

Walmart has some super cute dresses for girls for really cheap. This past summer I got Emerson about 6 dresses for ~$4-6 each. They are mostly versatile in color so they can be worn year round. Just pop a sweater overtop + some stockings underneath during the colder months.

Now, speaking of cold months, it's just about Christmas, which happens to be my favorite holiday. I know many a mama that are super festive for the holidays when it comes to dressing their children. The extent of my festivity usually comes down to bows, leggings and a festive shirt or two. I don't spend tons on the holidays because they're so short-lived. With that being said, I often adore the matchy-matchy holiday outfits, so keep doing yo' thing mama, if you're one of 'em! Here's a sample of an outfit Emerson would wear around the holidays using mostly items that she wears otherwise, just with a little holiday pop. ;)

I found these little stockings at Goodwill for $1! Perfect, right?? This entire outfit is from Goodwill actually .

While we're talking about the holidays, I think I should mention that to avoid an excess of toys (which we all know grandparents tend to go overboard usually), request clothing instead. I always tell family that if they want to gift anything to Emerson, to please grab her a pair of shoes or a cute outfit in either her current size or a size up. Most of my family knows how I dress her, so it's never been an issue that she's gotten some ungodly attire. But, if you're concerned about that, then just provide samples of colors your kiddo  you like, styles you like, etc. Also, if you have a girl, bows are always good gift options. ;) This little outfit below was a gift from my brother + sister-in-law for Emerson's birthday back in August. It was a little big on her then, but it will be perfect for the Christmas Eve service at church with her cute little thrifted red pea coat. Then she can wear it as a dress or tunic-style top. I LOVE it!

All bows are DIY or Walmart

Basically, here's what it comes down to when you are shopping, whether thrift or "real stores": shop for functionality, versatility, and longevity of wear. This goes for boys or girls. Think multi-purpose. Can it be styled 3 different ways? Will this particular piece work once it no longer fits as intended (dress-turned-tunic, for example)? Styling your kids doesn't have to be a dreaded task. Make it fun. Keep it simple and by all means, keep it affordable. 

* PSA: Unrelated to this post, but I will be switching the name of my blog over to 'Candidly Beautiful' come the new year. It will still be the same blog, same content, same ME, just a new name + look that's more encompassing of my "brand" now. I'll be doing a post on it later in December, but I just wanted to give the masses a heads up that if when you visit the blog in January and it is no longer "a little thrifty chic", that you aren't confused. :)

Thrifty Tip Thursday: The Kiddos + Outerwear

This will come as no surprise. I went to Goodwill this past weekend to shoot for this round of Thrifty Tip Thursday with NO intention of buying a single article of clothing. Do you know where this is going? Right into my wallet. That's where it went. I caved and I bought some of my favorite finds to date!!! But, before I divulge all of my goodies, I must share the easiest DIY ever {it relates to kiddos, so it's fair game here}. I promise it's worth 10-15 minutes of your time to watch {this was recored on FB Live, so just a disclaimer}! :)

Back to business for this week's edition of Thrifty Tip Thursday: Kiddos + Outerwear. I primarily shop thrift stores for not only myself, but for my two year old daughter. I've done this since she was in the womb. HA! Children's clothes are NOT cheap and they outgrow items so quickly that it's hard to justify spending a bunch of money on an item that will realistically only be worn for a month or two (maybe more if you're lucky). I have gotten everything from onesies, to leggings, to jackets, to shirts + skirts, to jeans + shoes. Heck, I even buy a lot of her toys at the thrift store {don't worry, they get a good cleaning before use}. I'd say that nine times out of ten, the items I purchase for her are well-known children's brands: Carter's, Osh Kosh, Gap Kids, Old Navy, Gymboree, Stride Rite to name a few. Of course, just like with my clothing, not everything is name brand, but if you'll recall last week I said...

I have so many thrifted items for Emerson that I could honestly write an entire post, but that would also require me rummaging through bins of clothing from ages past {or like a year} to find it all. 

And honestly, I'm excluding a lot of tips for kiddos this week because next week's post is ALL about thrifting for the kids! I'm going to share what I look for, what to avoid, how to think ahead, how to buy for resale, etc! So, I thought for this week, just to hold you over, I'd shoot some items that I found just this past thrifting trip that would be examples of items I would typically purchase for her {I also included a couple of my favorite thrifted outerwear pieces for her since it goes with today's theme}.

Carter's Denim Romper

Carter's Embroidered Shirt
I don't shy away from short sleeves even in the winter. I just find ones that pair nicely with cardigans. 

Thinking ahead to Halloween next year {this is Carter's 3T}.

Gap apple skirt {again, thinking ahead to next summer-3T}.

I believe this was Gap as well. CUTE right?! I didn't end up getting it though
because it had pen mark all over and I wasn't sure it would come out/how long it'd been on there.

And now for the current outerwear pieces that Emerson uses that were ALL THRIFTED and all in mint condition!! I'm telling y'all...people just GIVE AWAY the good stuff. 

Old Navy zippered pea coat $4.99 (if I remember correctly,
I got this at 50% off because the sale tag was green that day)

Red Old Navy Pea Coat with adorable back!!
This is my favorite ever and it was just $3!

Cherokee heavy duty rain jacket $2 

Denim Jacket {can't remember the brand}

Target brand {Circo} Lightweight windbreaker $2

Now, when it comes to outwear for me and my husband, I tend to be a bit picky. I don't like anything too loose or too tight. I am picky about how coats {particularly winter coats} fit in the arms and under the armpits. I am picky about it being fitted in the back versus looking unnecessarily bulky. I'm a bit weird about the style of buttons or how it closes. I told you, I'm picky. BUT, I hit the motherland with my most recent trip. When searching for outerwear {which for the sake of this posts includes coats/jackets, blazers, vests, and scarves} I will only buy items that look basically brand new. Outwear is one of those things that needs to last not only in terms of duration of wear, but also in terms of the style, in my opinion. For example, I don't want to buy a new winter coat every winter, as that's unnecessary, so I'd rather find one that will be in style for years to come, while also fitting me well. Here are a few examples of peacoats that I found that were super cute, but not EXACTLY what I've been looking for. 

I'm not typically drawn to green, but I loved this Old Navy coat.
Had it been on sale for half price {which would've made it $3}, I probably would've purchased. 

This NY + Co. black pea coat had nice classic lines, but fit too loosely in the back for my liking.
 Also, I didn't love how it looked or wore when it wasn't buttoned.

This black Old Navy pea coat was adorable, but a tad too small. At $4, it would've been perfect.

Clearly, I have been on the hunt for a new pea coat. I have been searching thrift stores for about 2 years now waiting for the perfect one. I have one winter coat now that hits at about my waist and is navy blue with a hood. It's from Old Navy and it's cute, but I don't wear it that often because it fits me oddly under the arms and is loose in the back. BUT....behold, my $4.50 H+M Gray Peacoat that is perfectly fitted everywhere and hits a little above the knee {so a different look from my navy blue one I mentioned}. *Hallelujah chorus* I have been EXTREMELY patient in waiting for the right coat to come along. I knew I wanted to try to find a thrifted jacket because they're SO cheap and I have found tons in excellent/perfect condition. This one was the final one because it was neutral like I'd been wanting, fitted in all the right places, and the length was great.

When searching for outerwear, keep a few things in mind:

1. Can I wear layers under this and it still be comfortable?

2. Does this make me look larger than I actually am because of how it fits in certain areas {arms, the back, and the length}?

3. Is the color going to work regardless of your choice of pant, skirt/dress, or shoe?

4. Is the style one that will live beyond this year? 

5. Does it show signs of wear {pilling, missing button, stains, etc}? Is it an easy fix or one that will always be noticeable {in which case, leave it behind}?

6. Possibly the most important, do you LOVE it?

I have found that if you question an item in the store {whether thrifting or not}, then you're likely not going to wear it. If you love it in the store, you'll love it at home when you pick it out of your closet.

Here are some more outerwear garments that I've found and/or purchased from the thrift store. I've never paid more than $8 for an outwear garment while thrifting.

Old Navy puffer vest for $3!

A blazer is a great way to bring some shape to a casual outfit. It can obviously be dressed up too!
This blazer with missing tag, but otherwise in terrific shape. It came home with me as a half priced item making it $3!

I actually liked the style of this Forever 21 blazer a bit better than the one above,
but this was much too tight in the arms/armpits. I wouldn't be able to move my arms much. haha.

This is more of a casual, lightweight sweatshirt material jacket. It was $2 a while back.
{Ignore the grump photobomber-haha!}

Thrift stores always have lots of scarves and usually for $3 or less.
This one wasn't my style with the neon colors, but I really liked the thickness and the design.
I've gotten a smaller scarf {meant for an adult} and Emerson has worn it! Just a little hack. ;)

I died over this faux leather jacket. It wasn't on sale, so I didn't buy it, but I totally regretted it once I got home.
 I went back later in the day to get it and it was gone. :(

I often look for pullovers for my husband, and occasionally myself.
This Eddie Bauer polka dot workout pullover was adorable, but a tad bit small for me.

Do NOT skip the kids sections or the outerwear sections at the thrift store!! I find SO many treasures in those two areas alone. Be sure to come back next Thursday as I break down how I find so many articles of clothing and shoes for Emerson at more than a fraction of what I'd buy them new! You literally won't believe your eyeballs. :) Have a wonderful rest of your week. See you soon!