Independent Living

I've been in a relationship for seven years now. Seven. 7. SEVEN.  I've been married for two of those years, and it's been fantastic. Really. In this time, we've both been full time college students, full time employees, and all of our free time has gone into our relationship. It seems easy enough to find time to spend together, but believe me, when you work 45+ hours a week, and he has a crazy nurse's schedule and often works weekends, it can be challenging to find two hours to spend together. So, we have learned to cherish our free time and spend as much of it together as possible. I can't remember the last time I had a girls night out. Or the last time I actually completed one of my many, many, lingering Pinterest projects. I'm not actually upset about this. He is my best friend, and I wouldn't have it any other way. 

However, all of that is about to come to a screeching halt. Two words. Ten letters. 

GRAD SCHOOL

My husband is embarking on a remarkable, and exciting journey. He starts nurse practitioner school this week, and I am beaming with pride for him. It's going to be tough as he will be a full time nurse and a full time student, but I know he is more than capable of stepping up to the challenge. I just can't help but [selfishly] wonder, "What am I supposed to do with my life now?" Sure, I've had free time before. Usually I take that time to clean up around the house, buy groceries, run errands, etc. I have never had this much time to myself before, and frankly, I don't want it. Here's the deal, alone time is good every now and then. Of course, everyone needs to relax and recharge to some extent, but that's where I draw the line. I don't want an abundance of time to myself. I'm just not that type of person. I'm not ashamed to say that I am dependent on others. Mainly, I'm dependent on my husband. 

The thing that terrifies me the most is that I won't be productive. I'm scared that I will waste all of my new-found free time. I'll end up sitting on the couch, cuddling with my dog, and then I'll slowly slip into a Netflix coma. Or, I'll spend two hours scrolling through Facebook scaring myself with fake news stories. I can't let that happen. I won't let that happen. I am determined to make these next two years the most productive of my life. I will start new projects, learn new skills, and I will use my time wisely. I will learn to live truly independently for the first time in seven years. And who knows, maybe I'll find out something new about myself along the way. 

I will be using my blog as my platform to share what I'm doing, how the transition is going, and maybe even as a place to vent when I'm getting on my nerves. Feel free to follow along the way, and suggestions for new projects are always welcome.

Lilly + Target Wishlist

The latest Target designer collaboration is just weeks away, and the Lilly Pulitzer for Target lookbook was finally released last week. With everything from nail polish to home goods, it's easy to get overwhelmed with all of the choices. So, I've looked through the entire collection and picked out my top choices. Now, when the collection is released I'll be ready to quickly make my selections [hopefully] before they sell out. I responded very strongly to the bold blue hues, and I especially love the printed espadrilles. And of course, I had to add a printed shift dress. There are so many choices, but I opted for the floral long sleeve version [I wanted one I could start wearing ASAP!]. Don't overlook the accessories and beauty products. I'm obsessed with the head wraps, and there are so many gorgeous shades of lipstick available. Check out the entire collection here. And don't forget, the collection launches April 19th!

Vacation, All I Ever Wanted

If you're like me, even with a little hint of spring weather, you're already planning for a tropical summer vacation. With the snow finally melted off the ground, it's all I can think about. In fact, I'm booking my summer vacay this week! Of course, I've already been stockpiling my resort essentials for at least a month. So, I'm sharing some of my top vacation clothing and accessories below. 

Just to highlight a few pieces I've been craving, the hi-lo maxi is at the top of my list. It's colorful and fun, and perfect for the beach, or a day out shopping. Also, this summer, a feminine one piece is a must. Two piece swimsuits are fun and cute, but there's something so fresh about a one piece. You can spice it up with cut outs or girly details, either way, you can't go wrong. A straw beach tote is always a necessity. I don't like carrying expensive bags to the beach; I need one I can brush the sand off of and move on (hint: get it monogrammed!). Enjoy my favorite resort pieces below, and check back because I'll be sharing more pieces soon!

1. Nordstrom // 2. Swell // 3. Topshop // 4. Nordstrom // 5. Mud Pie // 6. Target