Virtual Learning

 You guys teaching is HARD. Teaching during multiple pandemics is HARD. Virtual teaching during multiple pandemics is H.A.R.D. I hear lots of teachers saying how we could have been better prepared for entering this unknown territory and to be honest, I was- still am one of them. During tough times it's easy to point the fingers and place blame for things that fall between the cracks, add pressure, don't go as planned, and the biggest- make us uncomfortable. It takes certain personality traits (OCD- TYPE A- anyone?!) to be a teacher, and as those teachers we are EXTREMELY organized, I mean every day is broken down into hours, and those hours broken down into minutes of planned excellence, so when we enter into unknown water, we freak out and forget how to swim and use the supports to keep us afloat. After my first 30 min of virtual teaching, I wanted to quit. I was O.U.T. and seriously questioning my life decisions. I wasn't good at this, this isn't "teaching", this isn't how I start the year, this isn't what I normally am doing, this isn't how I decorate my room, this isn't how I host Open House...notice how I keep saying "I"? Once I vented to my friends, co-workers, family, and had a good ugly cry I noticed how I kept talking about how this was effecting ME. I needed to take a step back and realize that there was a classroom (okay, Google Meet) full of 28 bright shiny faces that needed me and they didn't know how it was "supposed to be", the lesson I would normally do, the activities I would normally do, the rules- procedures- transitions I would normally do. This was a chance to reinvent myself and grow. After all- nothing grows in a comfort zone. After day one, I realized I wasn't just teaching those 28 kids how to use technology and curriculum, I was teaching entire families. I now had the opportunity to interact with family members in ways I haven't in the past, build meaningful and personal relationships, put faces to names, see how they interact with their children and students, and be a support to help keep them afloat and actually work together as a team and build a partnership. After all- it takes a village- right? I started to give myself grace,  and not only give it to myself- but to expect it and find those bright shiny moments in the midst of chaos. By giving myself this permission I realized I don't need to have it all figured out, do things the way I have always done them (after all this is one of the most dangerous phrases in education), or be a level 4 in all of my wonderful E.E. domains. As long as I am growing, moving, putting one foot forward and showing up- progress is being made. Not only have I learned tons of new resources and supports to assist myself and my kiddos, but I am being challenged in technology, and when we know better- we do better. Does this mean I have it all figured out and it is smooth sailing from here? No. Does it mean that I am going to have doubts about what I am doing and my effectiveness every day- absolutely. Does it mean I wish we were back face to face? Without a doubt. Does it mean I am going to show up, do what is best for kids, and make the best of the situation I am in? You bet. Whether you are a teacher, principal, instructional coach, EA, parent, grandparent, child care provider, family member assisting with virtual learning, or having any role in this new way of learning- I challenge you to give yourself grace. I challenge you to not only be kind to yourself, but when you see those bright and shiny moments- celebrate them. Call that parent up and tell them you are grateful for them showing up with their student, encourage them that they are doing amazing with technology, tell that co-worker you have noticed how far they have grown in their skills and abilities, be a flotation device amidst these choppy and unknown waters. I also challenge you to be vulnerable, real, raw, and lean on your supports- co workers, friends, family whoever it may be and GROW. Here's to a challenging, inspiring, and optimistic second week! *cheers*

Back To School Blazers

It's that time of year again! Back to school is here and it is going to look different this year, and along with that comes a lot of emotion and uncertainty as we enter into unknown territory. Instead of fixating on the things we can't control, or don't have the answers to, we thought why not do something we know? CLOTHES- it's always the answer- right? Blazers are an excellent wardrobe staple for the simple fact that you can dress them up and down. Since a good fitting blazer can be a bit pricey, we really wanted to capture the essence of their functionality within this post and show you several ways to style the same piece.

First Up:

J. Crew Sweater Blazer (linked here) we both love this sweater so much, we actually purchased it in the pink as well. Hey, when you find something good, it's worth it. Unlike a traditional blazer, it's more of a cardigan with a stretch material, making it super soft and comfy. Another great thing about it is that the color is neutral which makes it easy to pair with whites, creams. greys, blacks, browns, and blues. Throw it on with a pair of high rise jeans, flats, heels, or with a tank and a front tuck and you are good to go! 

Tank linked here: Scalloped Tank

HINT: When shopping J. Crew stores, you get a 15% off teacher or student discount in store AND online- yes you read that right. All you have to do is mention it at check out or go to the following link when shopping online: Student and Teacher Discount

Next Up:

Balmain Dupe (linked here). This blazer is the perfect designer dupe. It looks classy, pricey, and oh so pretty without the price tag. The gold buttons really make it look clean and classic. Unfortunately, this exact one is no longer available (it was purchased from Walmart online- I will keep looking for a restock). However, the express one linked is almost identical and gives you the same look. Since it is such a pretty piece, we chose to pair it with a simple black tank and dress it down with some Golden Goose Dupes which you can find here:  Golden Goose Dupes. This piece can also be super dressed up with a pair of nude or black heels, fun printed flats or booties, and black joggers as well.

Coming In Next:

Is this Loft blazer. Can we just take a moment to appreciate the elbow patches on this jacket? The beauty is in the subtle details and we are here. for. it! Unfortunately, it is no longer available on the website and I, (Kayla) check compulsively every day in hopes of it returning. When you have something that stands out on it's own, you don't want to over shadow or over do it with a patterned top or too many accessories. We decided to pair it with a simple black blouse and belt and play off the gold accent of the buttons. We also went out on a limb and did a fun leopard shoe (which also has gold accents on the zippers). Adding a fun shoe with a simple top allows you to keep it simple and classic, with adding a little of your personality in as well. We also showed it more casual with a simple and clean pair of adidas and black pants.

OKAY:
I know this piece is not for everyone but I really wanted to share a good tip when finding pieces that are super trendy and not wardrobe staples. A friend of mine had a similar blazer and it was love at first sight. However, I wasn't sure I wanted to invest in something that I didn't know how long it would be in style for. Here is my tip, POSHMARK. You can find tons of great items in great condition and that is exactly where this little gem was found. Again, because it makes such a statement on it's own, a patterned or colorful top is not necessary, however, it can work. We paired it with leopard tank that has splashes of the same rose pink in it and softened the look with a pearl headband and a simple shoe. You can also go the simpler route, pair it with a white tank (always safe), pretty jewelry, and a statement shoe. Lastly, I love a blazer paired with a good graphic T. I have linked another one I have paired with the blazer here. Because the top has so much going on with the crushed velvet and graphic t, simple shoes is an ideal choice to keep it professional.

Just a Few More:

So by now you probably get the idea, blazer dressed up = simple tank with pretty jewelry, dark jeans, or dress joggers and a statement shoe. Blazer dressed down= graphic or plain tee, jeans, with a pair of sneakers. Here are some additional ways to style to provide you with ideas:

Maurices Blazer (linked here).

Teacher Essentials T

We have found the best places to find affordable blazers to be: Banana Republic and Banana Factory (offer tall and petite), J. Crew and J. Crew Factory , Express, and Maurices. We hope this was helpful for those of you returning the the classroom this fall! Cheers to a great year full of new challenges!

Makeup Review

Hi there!  I just wanted to pop on quick and give some makeup reviews on some new makeup products I just bought!  Shout out to @ashlyn_saal for giving me the recommendations based on my complaints about my face in pictures..lol.  Being 40 now, (EEK) seeing the tiredness and darkness around my eyes, not liking how I looked in pictures, prompted me to find these beauty products to help brighten my face.  It's been a breath of fresh air this summer to actually NOT wear makeup, go all naturalle, get a nice tan, but let's be real.. this teacher is heading back to work soon. Virtually. On video. To students that don't really know me.  Let's not scare them.. lol.   In all seriousness, I'd put some makeup on to go out, look in the mirror, think- okay-look's good!  Then, you know, we all post those facebook photos to document the outing (remember, I'm 40.. I want to remember these times..) and I'd be like what the heck is wrong?  My face looks super dark, you can see the circles . yikes!  So that's when I inquired about some makeup to help me.  And, it worked! So here's what I used:

Shape tape by Tarte: under eye concealer- really brightens under eyes!
https://tartecosmetics.com/shop/makeup/face/concealer/shape-tape-concealer/836.html

Use this Fenty Precision Makeup Sponge to apply the concealer (damp it with water first!) I was able to get this on amazon for $1 cheaper....

https://www.sephora.com/product/precision-makeup-sponge-100-P54487984

Face Tape Foundation by Tarte- this is a full coverage foundation, but it is still really light and not cakey!

Shape Tape Setting Powder by Tarte-don't forget to set your concealer and foundation with a powder!  This is a step I've always skipped.. it really makes a difference!
https://tartecosmetics.com/shop/makeup/face/foundation/face-tape-foundation/1600.html

Shape Tape Stay Spray by Tarte-this was a game changer!! The spray sets your makeup and it really works!  I always felt that by noon by makeup no longer looked fresh... not anymore!
https://tartecosmetics.com/shop/makeup/face/prime-set/shape-tape-stay-spray-vegan-setting-spray/1659.html

Gimme Brow Volumizing Eyebrow Gel by Benefit-use if you want to define your eyebrows and give them a fuller look- I use this to help contrast my light hair.
https://www.benefitcosmetics.com/us/en/product/gimme-brow-plus

Benefit Roller Lash- this is what I'm currently using.
https://www.ulta.com/roller-lash-curling-lifting-mascara?productId=xlsImpprod11951085

I have tried EVERY.SINGLE.RECOMMENDED. MASCARA. there is out there.  For real.  I have.  And let me tell you- false eyelashes are the way to go!  But, since it is an extra cost, and it can be hard finding the time to get a fill... I guess this is a good mascara.  I'm still on the hunt for THE perfect mascara.  I do find most mascaras are so hard to get off, even with makeup remover.  So, if you want a great mascara that wipes off in clumps, I suggest:

Thrive Liquid Lash Mascara- it is volumizing and lengthening and wipes off super easily!
https://thrivecausemetics.com/products/liquid-lash-extensions-mascara

So there you have it!  All of these products can be found at Ulta, except for the Fenti makeup sponge and Thrive mascara.  The nice thing about almost all of these products is you can get them in a travel size if you want to try them without committing to spending a ton of money!  I find this super useful, especially for mascara!

Finally, here's a before and after picture for fun! (no filters were used:)

Before:

After:

Just some shape tape, blush and mascara here: 

Postpartum Hair Loss

I've spent a great amount of time thinking about what I wanted my first post to be. I really wanted it to be something that was multi-faceted and relevant to what was currently going on in my life, as well as something that could help our readers. For those of you who may be new to knowing me, I have a 4 year old son, and a 10 month old little boy. Postpartum has been at the forefront of my life for the last year and something I am still continuing to struggle with, whether that be accepting my new body, adjusting to breastfeeding, dealing with an over supply, clogged ducts (sorry if this is TMI- just being real :-P ), and raging hormones just to name a few.

Some Background:
With my first pregnancy, I struggled horribly with postpartum hair loss. Sure, everyone experiences a great deal of hair loss, but I was NOT prepared for the second wave that would hit when Bennett, would turn one. I have always had tons of fine, brittle, and dry hair, but during pregnancy it had become thick, shiny, and long- until one day- it didn't. My hair was a little below shoulder length when this second wave hit and I remember it was not only falling out in extreme clumps, but it was also breaking off- and I mean bad with a capital B.A.D. Suddenly my hair looked like I had gotten a horrible cut with a razor that included many unwanted layers and it would not stop. I remember crying day after day and not wanting to wash it for fear of losing more. I tried to attribute it to everything I could, diet, products, well water (we had just moved into our new home), stress, lack of vitamins, even the pillow cases I was using. I am not sure if it was one specific thing, or all the above factors that created a perfect storm, but I will tell you- stressing about it did not help one bit. I started cutting it, trying to even out the layers, create some thickness, and try to regain some sort of style and life back into it. I was making progress when in the midst of it all, my long time hair stylist (ladies you know how much we trust them), had decided to leave. Thankfully, she left me in good hands with someone who not only is a genius with color, but had awesome ideas that would help.

Here is what my hair looked like Pre-Postpartum:

and the beginning of the end, keep in mind I had not cut it:

First hair cut:

What I tried:
Of course, when looking for remedies,I would go to Pinterest unfortunately there isn't a ton of helpful products out there. Here is what I tried:
- Aveda Damage Remedy Shampoo and Conditioner
- Aveda Invati System
- Redken One United
- Filter for my shower head
- Installing a water softener in our home
- Olaplex System
- Kevin Murphy Doo Over
- Kevin Murphy Angel Wash
- Keving Murphy Leave in Repair Treatment
- Bed Head Tigi- Recovery
- Neautrogena Anti Residue Shampoo
- Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
- Biotin Supplements
- Nioxin System
- Cutting my hair more often
- Avoided using heat (thank you quarantine)
- Eating a balanced diet
- Talk with my doctor about stress management techniques

Here is after 5 months using Aveda, pregnant with Braxton, my hair was at it's worst, there may have been an emotional breakdown in my stylist's chair...

So...what worked?!

What Worked for ME:
 Please remember that every body is different and unique, but here is what I found to be most beneficial and why:

Filter for my shower head:
This was a total game changer. Having well water, it was doing nothing but drying out my already extremely brittle hair. Keep in mind, a filter will NOT soften water the way a traditional softener will, but it WILL remove any chlorine or contaminants making it much less harsh on your hair.

Olaplex System:
My new stylist recommended integrating Olaplex products into my haircare routine. Olaplex changed my life. It works by repairing damaged and broken hair bonds. I began by using the N0.3 Hair Perfector twice a week and noticed a difference right away in the texture of my hair. This is not a conditioner or a mask and won't leave your hair feeling silky smooth, but it did reduce the amount of breakage I was experiencing significantly. Because I loved the No.3, I decided to try No.6 Bond Smoother which helped to moisturize and product my hair from environmental and heat damage. As of recent, I started to use the No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo and No5. Bond Maintenance Conditioner and don't think I will ever go back to using anything else. The conditioner is like butter and leaves my hair silky soft and feels so thick and healthy.

Cutting My Hair More Often:
This was the hardest for me, as I was losing so much hair and wanted to hang on to every inch I could. Our hair goes through cycles, and it was important for me to to continue to cut off hair built of old hormones,  embrace the new growth, and focus on keeping it as healthy as possible.

Avoiding Heat & Styling:
 This was also hard. I have very frizzy hair where parts are extremely curly, and others stick straight so washing and going all natural is not an option for me, especially in the work place. I would blow dry, straighten or curl every single day. Thankfully, once COVID hit and we were forced to stay home, I was also forced to embrace my natural hair and just let it go and do it's thing. Total. Game. Changer. My hair had a chance to breathe and take a break from all the styling.

Diet and Self Care:
 No physical change is going to take place, without something changing inside. I started incorporating more greens and fiber into my diet, as well as talked to my primary care physician about what I was experiencing. She explained that although mentally I was not feeling anxiety or stress as I had in the past,  but my body was taking on the toll and suffering- hence the hair loss. She helped me come up with a plan that worked for me to manage it all. I also incorporated Collagen Peptides into my daily routine.

Kevin Murphy:
My stylist swears by Kevin Murphy products and I have recently started using them as well. The three I have been using are: Angel Wash, Leave-in-Repair, and Doo.Over. I love the Angel Wash because it is a purple shampoo that helps knock out any brassy tones that try to over take my ash blonde hair. Thus, preserving the color and being able to go longer in-between coloring sessions. I love the Leave-In- Repair because it is light weight, protects my hair from any heat I may put on it while styling, and also leaves my hair full of shine. The Doo. Over product my be my favorite, it acts as a hair spray while adding texture, and provides a flexible hold that will last for days without leaving behind a build up. Plus all of these products smell AMAZING.

This is from June, at Bennett's 4th Birthday:

I say these methods worked for me because I am a year postpartum with baby number two and not having any of the issues that I did during my first pregnancy. Am I still experiencing hair loss? Yes. Is it abnormal? No. Is my hair continuing to grow, not break off, and feel healthy? Yes. Am I still a work in progress- YES!

So... Why?

        The idea to start a blog actually came from many of our close friends, family members, and co-workers. As it is pretty obvious by now, we have a serious love for clothes and fashion, and many people would often ask where we shop, and if they could hire us to shop for them (not sure if they're 100% joking, or serious- but we love it either way) . I mean, spending someone else's money on clothes sounds pretty ideal- right?! But in all seriousness, we really wanted to create a place that could be utilized as an outlet for other moms and young professionals to find beauty, fashion, decor ideas, advice, and provide a good laugh all in one place. Thank you so much for sharing in our craziness of our authentic selves! We look forward to the many laughs to come on this journey together!