The movie list and Kate Hudson

This past year, I really wanted to catch up on movies - the classics, the iconic films of new and old that were groundbreaking at their time - and the ones that I often would hear  "you mean you've NEVER seen (fill in blank)?!?"

Although the list is neverending, I feel I've been able to cross a few off my list this year. Star Wars, Casablanca and The Godfather, to name a few. One I recently watched, maybe not quite as well known, was Almost Famous. It reminded me one reason I love movies. When an actor or actress lights you up and somehow makes you feel stronger, smarter, more confident and simply happier just by watching their movie - it's an amazing feeling. On screen and off, Kate Hudson is one of many that does that for me. Not sure if it's her sunny disposition, her effortless California style (casual or dressy) or just her overall radiance and inner glow. Whatever it is, I think it's awesome.

1 • 2 • 3 

Check out the my 'love her' pinboard for women that, in one way, shape or form, I find inspiring. Who's on your list?

fall fashion wish list

Although I'm a little sad to move my summer dresses to the deep dark sides of the closet, I have to admit, I'm kinnnnda getting excited about fall fashion. Quite honestly, fall fashion, sometimes, is the only thing that keeps me from being completely destroyed about the dropping temps. I love digging out my warm coats and scarves and all the winter accessories I'd somehow completely forgotten about. Drinking delicious hot coffees and cocoas while cozying up in chunky knits... my favorite jeans... knee-high boots... layers of tops in jewel-tones ... the list goes on.

This fall my wish list is all about quality leather items in various chocolate shades, the softest knits I can get my hands on and delicate gold jewelry. Luckily, our annual Mall of America trip is right around the corner, so I'm hoping to cross a lot of these off my wish list very soon. :)

• watches (thanks to Casey for opening my eyes to these beauties) And I can't decide! I want both!

• classic riding boots from ALDO (TOP of the list)

• tote (I want the real leather but this Target one is a great inexpensive substitute)

• thigh highs (I want a pair in every color)

• locket

• ring 1 • ring 2

• coffee girl inspiration • fireside inspiration

First 5K with Brooks Ghost 6

Four months ago I decided that I needed to healthy focus in my life and challenged myself to run a 5K. Coming from someone who has never been much of a runner and usually raised an eyebrow at friends that would "pay money to run?" this was a pretty big deal for me. But lo and behold, four quick months later I ran my first 5K! 3.1 miles of sweat and hills. It was amazing tho! My oldest son ran it with me too *proud mom moment*. Friends and family came to cheer us on... It was honestly, a pretty amazing day.

I did have a few motivators along the way... a girl needs cute workout clothes, right? So after it warmed up a little, I picked up a few things. (seriously, I ran the first few weeks in my down winter coat - welcome to March in Wisconsin). Anyways – as much as I'd love to drop a month's salary at Athleta, I found some really great things in Target's active wear section and even found some great tops at Walmart. Who knew?! Great athletic fabrics for super cheap.

My first big purchase was these Brooks Women's Ghost 6 running shoes. LOVE them. AND, right now they're on sale! Check'm out.

And for completing the 5K, I am rewarding myself with the Cadillac of sports bras: Victoria's Secret Front Knockout Front Close Sports Bra. I'm patiently waiting - I seriously can't wait til it gets here! :)  Bra review to come later.

 
A little sweaty and a lot exhausted but WE DID IT !!!

beauty favorites

I can't tell you why I love makeup so much. I think it goes hand-in-hand with my love for painting. How you can create contours and highlights – make things stand out or less noticeable. It's like girly-magic :)  Another huge bonus to mastering makeup tricks, and a wise cousin of mine might agree, when you LOOK good, you FEEL good ;).

Here are a few of my fayyyyvorites... seriously love these little gems. Don't be afraid of the dark stains - they all come off so natural and pretty. Leaving gorgeous flushes on your pretty little cheeks. :) 

Laura Mercier matte eye colour in Buttercream 

Pixi Sheer Cheek Stain in No. 2 Sunkissed 

Anastasia Brow Wiz - Brow Pencil in Medium Ash 

Lip Smackers - Dr. Pepper

Tarte Blush: in Flush and Natural Beauty