Normalize Taking a Different Path

Hey y’all, Happy New Year! I was looking back at the blog and realized I haven’t posted since July. That month was pretty crazy for us - we sold our house unexpectedly, moved downtown, and started an entirely new path than what we had planned for ourselves earlier that year. Since July, I’ve been thinking a lot about what the decision to sell our house has led us to, along with the decisions that followed. Almost 6 months later, I can look back and know it was absolutely the right call, but having the faith in the moment of making it was the challenge. We were going against what we knew, carving a different path than what the world around us was promoting, and jumping into a big unknown.

When we took the above pictures, we had just moved and I was questioning a lot. What had we done? Did we overreact in selling? How does this fit into the “plan” we had when buying our house and thinking life would go a certain way? How is this going to change the future and our timeline? If only I could tell my previous self what she’s up to now.


Growing up I was always led to believe that you went to school, met a boy, graduated, got a job, got engaged, bought a house, got married, started having kids, and maybe a dog or two in between. A lot of people around me started living that life and there is nothing wrong with it. Some people did the order a bit differently or started earlier than others, but that was the way things went.

In middle school, I read the book To Kill a Mockingbird, and to this day it is one of my favorite books. The sequel Go Set a Watchman explores the versions of people we see when we grow up and aren’t viewing them through the lens we have as children where we idolize our parents or think every adult has life figured out. After reading Go Set a Watchman, I realized that every kid probably goes through something similar and that the same can be said for the life we build ourselves.

The picturesque, “American Dream” lifestyle of a house, kids, a good job and a dog in the backyard is a beautiful sentiment and something that a lot of people want out of life, myself included. But life isn’t that simple for a lot of us. Even those who appear to have the life we’ve all been told to chase have setbacks, challenges, and hardships. We all struggle with comparison and jealousy at some level. But what many fail to remember is that we aren’t all meant to have the same life and furthermore, we shouldn’t be ashamed for living a life that doesn’t fit the mold of what others are doing.

This year, Kollin and I got some news about the first home we built together and we decided to sell. After years of living in apartments, moving several times, and finally getting the dream of owning a home, we realized something. We weren’t sad about it… everyone in our life felt so bad for us and wondered how devastated we were. Sure, we didn’t want to move or have to sell the house, but we felt a little strange about being so okay with it. But then we realized something. Owning a home is hard. It’s expensive and time-consuming. Growing up, that was the goal. Own something, make it yours, and build your family and wealth. When we got into the house we were really happy there and loved owning something, but as the months went on we realized we weren’t spending a ton of time there, the responsibility of everything was a lot and it wasn’t as amazing as everyone made it seem. The world around us romanticizes all of these life steps and doesn’t talk about how difficult things can be or the not-so-pretty side of things.

Yes, I’m proud of us and grateful for being able to buy a home and go through that process, but I’m more proud of us for making a change and living the life we want rather than the life that is expected of us.

What if the version of your story is that you go to school and end up not loving the career you picked for yourself or maybe “met a boy” turned into “met a girl"? What if you got married and had a great few years, but then things changed and you’re back to dating? What if you’re struggling with infertility or have decided kids aren’t the right choice for your family? What if you prefer renting over owning or you’d rather live in a van and travel the world than have roots in one place?

We all experience things differently and we’re all dealt a different hand in life, but without those unique and personal experiences, we aren’t who we are. So think about where you are in life right now and know that is where you’re supposed to be. Choose the life you want instead of building a life off of others’ expectations of you. Normalize living outside society’s path of what is next and figure out what makes you happy.

I wish I could tell the girl back in April who got the news about the new home she just built that everything would work out and this is actually meant to be. That one decision to sell completely changed the trajectory of what our life would look like. We’d move downtown, save money, end up living .5 miles from a new job that is everything I was looking for in my career. We’d create more opportunities for travel, spend more quality time with friends and family, and learn the importance of want vs. need again. We learned to prioritize certain desires and really focus inward on goals we set for ourselves rather than the goals the outside world is creating for us.

So, the girl in the above photos was scared. Scared of the decisions she’d just made, scared to make the leap in looking for a new job, scared that she was now behind in the timeline she planned for herself, and scared that everything would be different. The best part is that everything is different. It was still scary at times, there were still questions, but I challenged myself in ways I hadn’t before and made it through what was a huge setback to the world around us. That fear can and does still set in sometimes, but now I know I always have a choice in front of me and that it will work out how it is intended to. I suppose if we’re not leading a life that scares us a little, we may not be living at all.

The Brand Brief: Sara Walker - Mark & Co

Meet BOUTIQUE OWNER, SARA WALKER

Mark & Co offers a curated collection of closet staples and on-trend pieces. From timeless essentials to statement pieces that will elevate any outfit, their online boutique has something for everyone.

Hey, y’all! We’re halfway through the week and I’m so excited to bring this Brand Brief series back to the blog! As a series designed to tell stories of women in business and the truths and challenges that come with that, today’s story is just that. Sara Walker of Mark & Co Boutique is a Nashville-based online fashion boutique owner who sells beautiful, high-quality pieces for the sophisticated girl who still loves affordability.

I haven’t met Sara in person (yet!), but she is also a University of Kentucky grad, along with her husband, so I know we have a lot in common, including a love of fashion! We have a mutual family-friend connection and from the moment Sara reached out about Mark & Co I knew that it was a brand I wanted to share with y’all! Let’s dive into more of Sara’s story below:


Hi, Sara! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR BEING ON THE BRAND BRIEF! What inspired you to start Mark & Co? 

Mark & Co was founded in the namesake of my late father with a simple dream of curating pieces that show the power and individuality of the everyday woman. 


What has been the most fun part of starting your business? And in contrast, the most challenging?

Mark & Co has been an amazing rollercoaster ride since we launched in April. The most fun part is getting to see my customers wearing their pieces and seeing the confidence on their faces when they get their new outfits! I have also built relationships and learned from so many very special people that I wouldn’t have gotten the chance to if it wasn’t for this business. Just like anything in life- there are challenges. For me, the most challenging aspect has been the content creation! I APPLAUD content creators because their jobs are not easy! Social media is always evolving and your business has to evolve with the trends to stay relevant. This is something I am consistently working on, learning, and also taking advice from peers who are well-versed in the social media space! 


You can only wear one outfit for the rest of your life. What is it?

I would LIVE in a good two-piece matching set if I could every day! The BOSS blue Mark & Co set is a favorite of mine.


What do you wish more people know about being a woman in business?

The world has come a long way with women in the workplace. I have worked in the Tech Sales world for almost 5 years now and have always known that I wanted to create something of my own that was empowering & life-giving. I love my day job and I know that the soft skills I’ve developed over the years in corporate America have aided the success of Mark & Co. I think it’s important for women to know that running our own business is not a “glamorous” job. As the owner of a small business,  you are the CEO, accountant, inventory team, sales team, customer support, etc. As women, we know that comparison is the thief of joy, and this is one of the easiest traps to fall into when running a business. it’s SO important to have a resilient mindset and an overall vision for your brand that you are consistently working towards every day. 


Where do you find inspiration for the pieces in your boutique? 

I truly believe that everything I carry in Mark & Co is a direct reflection of my personality, uniqueness, and style. Being from the South, the Southern influence is shown through my pieces as well as modern everyday essentials. I think one of the most beautiful things about fashion is not having to choose one specific “style.” I love that as I grow, my style evolves as well! 

 

What trends are you looking forward to in the coming seasons? Any that you’re loving right now?

I am looking forward to the fall & winter transition! Layering Is one of my favorite ways to style pieces, and fall/winter is the perfect time to do that! I think leather will be back this fall to make a statement as well as oversized blazers and staple pieces as the base layer.


Describe Mark & Co in three words.

Timeless essentials elevated.


Where can everyone find you? Share your website, Instagram, or anything!

You can find me on Instagram at @markandco.boutique & my personal account where I share all things Mark & Co as well as my personal life @lilsallywalker

Our website is www.markcoboutique.com Our Facebook page is Mark & Co Boutique

SHOP MARK & CO BOUTIQUE

I recently shared a #BrieflyStyled video with three Mark & Co pieces that y’all should check out here for styling inspo! I’ve linked some of my favorite Mark & Co pieces below for y’all and Sara was so generous to give TCB readers a discount code! Use code AMANDA10 for 10% off your order!

2023 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Finds

Hey, y’all! We’re all familiar with sales happening in the summer, but one sale stands out amongst the rest: The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! It opens to the public today, July 17th, and runs until August 6th. So, what’s the big deal about the sale? Unlike most other sales that put current or even old inventory on sale, The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is for new fall products. You can shop just launched late summer, fall, and even winter items at a significant discount.

Now that the sale is open to the public you don’t need to have a Nordstrom Card to shop, but there are some nice incentives to having one and being a part of the Nordy Club. Having the card does give you early access to the sale and some other benefits:

  1. A $40 bonus note when approved for use on a future purchase

  2. At least 2 points per dollar spent when using your Nordstrom credit card

  3. Automatically gain access to Nordy Club benefits!

  4. No annual fee

Learn more about the Nordstrom Card and Rewards Program here.

One of the best ways to make the most of the sale is to think about your upcoming year and your fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and home decor needs. I love using the sale as a way to grab some major staples at a discount like fall and winter boots, my favorite home decor items that rarely go on sale, and gifts for the holidays. I’ve added some best sellers and pieces I think are a great find for the sale below:

You can access the full sale here and also shop my curated Nordstrom Sale Shop on LTK here. The sale ends August 9th so be sure to grab what you love while you can! I’ve added some of my favorites, like my favorite blankets ever to the pair of UGGs that will be the fall find, to the posts below for easy shopping.

6 Trendy Frank and Eileen Shirts We Can't Get Enough Of

Switch Up Your Style and Stay on Trend With These Shirts From Frank & Eileen

Main Image Courtesy of Shopbop.

What is Frank & Eileen?

In 2009, a former engineer by the name of Audrey McLoghlin launched Frank & Eileen, a brand with the idea to reinvent button-up clothing for women. The idea came from her Irish grandparents, who were both passionate about Italian fabrics.

Frank & Eileen is now a global fashion brand that is 100% owned by women. The company has been working with sustainable and ethical producers for over a decade, with a mission to support and model female entrepreneurship.

Frank & Eileen Sustainability 

One of the main goals of being sustainable is seeking out the best producers of textiles. This is why McLoghlin decided to work with the late patriarch of the Albini mill, Silvio Albini, who was known for his dedication to the industry. Aside from being a leader in responsible practices, he also ensured that every fabric produced in Italy is Oeko-Tex certified. This means that it meets the strictest environmental standards.

When the company launched its knitwear capsule five years ago, they looked to their own local region for inspiration. Since sunny California produces some of the world's most exquisite knitwear, the company partnered with local artisans in Los Angeles to ensure that all of the products are made with the best materials and that they are supported by B Corp-approved labor practices. Every piece is made with the same care and quality that their partners provide. As the company continues to expand offerings, they remain committed to supporting female entrepreneurship and helping other women succeed.

Positive reviews are quite common when it comes to clothing by Frank & Eileen, especially regarding their shirts like this classic blue tattered wash shirt shown above. Frank & Eileen Website Image Courtesy

Frank & Eileen Fabric Guide

Frank & Eileen is a certified B corp company, which means they take the fabric used in the clothing materials very seriously. Learn a little more about some of the company’s most frequently used fabrics!

Signature Crinkle 

The revolutionary crinkle wash is the first thing that made the company's button-ups famous. The process of hand-crinkling each shirt makes them one-of-kind and an ideal travel companion.

Superluxe

The name Superluxe refers to the luxurious materials that are used in Frank & Eileen's collection! It is one of the finest cotton produced from the company's mill, both incredibly soft and smooth. It’s luminous appearance and full-bodied hand make it the ideal choice for any occasion.

Even though it's made with incredibly luxurious materials, Superluxe is machine washable. A quick press is recommended to remove some of the wrinkles from the product, while still allowing for the shine and brilliance to come through.

This material is made from the finest cotton that's been produced by an Italian mill, completely traceable from the seed to the finished product!

Superfine 

The finest single-fold thread is used to make Superfine, which is made with Giza 87, exquisite Egyptian cotton. This material is carefully controlled and treated in the fields to create a luxurious and lightweight feel.

Italian Performance Twill 

The lightweight fabric of Italian twill is made to be easy to move around in, and it's washed and pre-shrunk. It features a beautiful blend of colors that can make anything feel a bit more luxurious!

The more you wear Italian Performance twill by Frank & Eileen, the more you will discover new colors and styles to come.

Featherweight 

This feather-weight Italian cotton feels almost weightless due to its smooth hand and is made from fine yarns. It's a great choice for those who are looking for something a bit lighter.

The Featherweight Color collection has been offered in various colors since the beginning, making it easy to create a collection that's just right for each season. This versatile piece can be worn alone or layered under a dress or cardigan for an amazing all-around look.

Casual Cotton 

The raw material used for Casual Cotton is Giza 45, which is another extremely rare Egyptian cotton. It has exceptional strength, long staple, and exceptional absorbency. This beautiful blend of Italian casual cotton features a texture similar to linen, but with a more breathable feel.

Shirts by Frank & Eileen 

Although Frank & Eileen is known for its variety of clothing items, which include dresses, pants, skirts, and jackets, the shirts made by the company are what has given the brand the big name it has in the fashion world today. Check out these top shirt styles by Frank & Eileen!

Frank & Eileen Silvio Woven Button-Up Shirt 

A button-down shirt is a must-have for a variety of occasions, and Frank & Eileen's take on it is a must-have. This style features a petite square fit, an exaggerated back pleat, and an oversized envelope pocket.

Image courtesy of Shopbop, where you can find a great deal on this shirt for just $187.60 versus the original sale price of $268. Hurry while it lasts!

Frank & Eileen Joedy Shirt 

The Joedy shirt is made from a luxurious blend of materials that are intentionally oversized. Its long and prominent button-up silhouette, and center-back and pocket pockets, make it the ideal choice for layering.

Frank & Eileen Famous Denim Shirt 

This relaxed-fit denim shirt is a must-have for any woman who is looking for effortless California style. It features a bust-flattering button and a generous cut, and is an ideal choice for many whether you are dressing up or down.

Frank & Eileen French Striped Tee 

This Frank & Eileen tee features a classic two-tone stripe pattern, skinny sleeves, and a casual fit. Its raw edges add a bit of interest to make this top look like something special. 

Trying to dress up nice but also keep it casual at the same time? This french striped tee from Frank & Eileen is the perfect top for any special or laid back occasion. Image courtesy of Shopbop, where you can find this shirt for $120.

Frank & Eileen Button-Up Shirt with Liberty Fabric 

This shirt is the epitome of both casual and dressiness, and it features a classic fit and a bust-flattering button. Its signature button detail and long shirttail provide added coverage.

Blue, bright, and floral, this is the perfect shirt for the summer time! Image courtesy of Frank & Eileen’s website, this shirt is currently selling for $248.

Frank & Eileen Classic Shirt Dress 

One of the best dresses in the world is a dress that you can easily wear for any occasion. The Classic shirtdress from Frank & Eileen is made from a variety of materials such as white, denim, and linen, and it can be paired with boots or sandals. Its loose silhouette and knee length make it the ideal choice for any occasion.

Where Can I By Frank & Eileen?

Shopbop

Shopbop is one of the top online retailers, and we happen to carry a huge selection of Frank & Eileen products. A variety of models are available at a fraction of the regular cost, with deals happening frequently!

Frank & Eileen Website

The Frank & Eileen website has all the latest apparel, including jackets, shirts, pants, and other accessories, which you can find in all one place. They also have sales where you can get a great bargain.

Poshmark

One of the best places to buy and sell Frank & Eileen clothes is on the platform known as Poshmark, which allows people to sell and buy all kinds of clothing items. There, you can find great deals on used and new Frank & Eileen clothes and more.

Ebay

Although you might not think that you can purchase high-end clothes through eBay, this is actually a great place to start. A variety of Frank & Eileen products can be found on this site, where you can get great deals on shirts in particular! 

How to Wa Frank & Eileen Shirts + Reduce Wrinkles 

When it comes to buying high-end clothes, it is important that you know how to properly wash them since they are made with the finest materials. When it comes to washing Frank & Eileen shirts, it can be done in cold water with mild detergent. Cotton shirts can also be tumble dried, but they should be washed immediately before. On the other hand, for linens, it is better to hand them over to the dryer.

Now that you have been introduced to a whole new style of shirts from Frank & Eileen, it’s time to start shopping! Make sure to check out the various retailers who sell the company’s clothing and get ready to show off some unique yet sophisticated style this summer.

The Grilled Peach, Burrata, Arugula, and Prosciutto Salad You'll Be Eating All Summer

When it comes to parties and gatherings, I was taught to never show up empty handed, but the task of picking something to bring outside of wine always puzzled me. Do you bring an app or maybe dessert? How do you know it will be enough for the number of people attending? Or if you’re the one hosting, what you can have that fits most people’s preferences? Enter this salad.

I saw this recipe on Instagram last summer and immediately wanted to make it based on the pictures. It is the epitome of summer flavors and we made It several times within a span of a couple weeks. I think it would be great for a party as well! Here’s what you’ll need:

Grilled Peach, Burrata, arugula, and Prosciutto Salad

Time to cook: 20 min | Serves: 4-6 people

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of arugula

  • 3 peaches pitted and cut in half

  • 3 balls of burrata cheese (4 ounces each)

  • 3 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto (about 6 slices)

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

  • fresh cracked black pepper to taste

  • 2-3 tablespoons of balsamic reduction

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the peaches by washing them and cutting them in half to remove the pit. We personally peeled the peaches as we prefer them that way, but the recipe works either way! Once the peaches are halved, brush with olive oil and place on a hot grill for 5-7 minutes depending on how charred you’d like them. Remove and let cool.

  2. While peaches are grilling, begin balsamic reduction. Place balsamic vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Reduce heat once simmering and continue to cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until consistency is like syrup. If you prefer a sweeter reduction you can add a little brown sugar to the pan at the beginning of cooking. *If simmering with sugar, it will take about 8-10 minutes to reduce.

  3. Toss arugula with lemon juice.

  4. Begin planting your salad - we prefer a platter to bowl for presentation purposes. Arrange a layer of the arugula on the platter and then add sliced prosciutto. Cut the burrata in half or desired size and place it around the salad. The cheese will be creamy and a bit messy once broken and spread.

  5. Cut peaches to desired sizes like slices or leave them halved and place them on the salad.

  6. Combine cooled balsamic and olive oil and then drizzle over the salad just before serving.

  7. For added protein, add grilled chicken.

Notes: if making in advance - wait to assemble until ready to serve. This salad is a bit more ‘wet’ and may create a soggy texture if prepared too early. You can also bake the prosciutto at 350 for 5-10 minutes to make it crispy and crumble it on top. The balsamic reduction can be stored for 2-3 months in a sealable container in the fridge for further use or if prepared ahead of time.

Wines to pair it with

This salad is perfect for summer and these flavors pair perfectly with summer wines. Try a Sauvignon Blanc, dry rosé, Pinot Gris, Champagne or Prosecco to complement the sweet, earthy and tangy flavors in this salad. Each will play up with fruit flavor of the peach and keep the dish light and refreshing.

Effortless Elegance: Spring Blouses and How to Style Them

SHOP THE POST

Spring brings a sense of renewal and a desire to refresh many aspects of life; our wardrobe is no different. Among the must-have essentials for the season, spring blouses stand out as versatile pieces that effortlessly elevate any outfit. In this blog post, I’m sharing how to style spring blouses in a sophisticated and chic manner, offering spring fashion tips and styling advice, and outfit inspiration to help you achieve an elegant and timeless look.

  1. Choose Classic Silhouettes

    When aiming for a sophisticated and chic style, choose spring blouses with classic silhouettes. Look for tailored cuts, clean lines, and structured fabrics that exude elegance. Add interesting details like a puff sleeve, embroidery, cutouts, or unique necklines to freshen up a basic top.

  2. Embrace Neutral Color Palettes

    Neutral colors are timeless for achieving sophistication. Opt for spring blouses in shades of white, ivory, beige, or navy to create a chic and refined look. If you’re wanting to incorporate more color, go for complimentary colors in this palette like yellow, green, magenta, or lavender.

  3. Pair with Tailored Bottoms

    To enhance the chicness of your outfit, pair your spring blouse with tailored bottoms. Opt for high-waisted trousers, structured shorts, or the trending long denim skirt to create a sleek and polished silhouette.

  4. Add a Blazer or Structured Jacket

    Layering a blazer or structured jacket over your spring blouse instantly elevates the sophistication level of your outfit. Opt for tailored blazers in complementary colors to create a chic and refined ensemble. Some staple colors to keep in your closet: white, black, cognac or tan, and navy. I also love adding some edge to a spring, feminine look with a faux leather jacket.

  5. Incorporate Statement Accessories

    Complete your chic spring blouse outfit with statement accessories that add a touch of personality. Opt for a statement bracelet stack, a structured handbag, or eye=catching sunglasses to elevate your overall look. I’ve been really into oversized gold bangles and love these.

  6. Play with Textures and Fabrics

    To add depth and visual interest to your chic ensemble, experiment with different textures and fabrics. Consider pairing a silk blouse with a tailored tweed skirt or a lace blouse with sleek leather trousers. Mixing your fabrics and textures will not only make your outfit more interesting, but add depth to your closet and expand the seasonality of your pieces.

  7. Opt for Minimalistic Makeup and Hairstyles

    Keep your makeup and hairstyles minimalistic when going for a chic ensemble. Opt for natural-looking makeup with a focus on glowing skin and neutral tones. Keep your hairstyle sleek and polished, such as the Sofia Richie bun or timeless waves. The clean girl aesthetic goes a long way because it can be paired with almost every type of look.

Spring blouses offer endless possibilities for creating sophisticated and chic outfits. You can effortlessly achieve an elegant and timeless look by opting for classic silhouettes, neutral color palettes, tailored bottoms, and adding layers and statement accessories. Remember to play with textures and fabrics, while keeping your makeup and hairstyles minimalistic to complete your chic ensemble. Embrace the spring season with confidence and try out a new spring blouse!

More Spring Tops

How to Reduce Your Chatter and Best Practices for Mindfulness

Mindfulness has been a goal of mine, and many others, as a way to combat stress, and anxiety and to lead a calmer disposition. The idea and lifestyle of mindfulness aren’t new. Still, after the Covid-19 pandemic, the increase in social issues, and the hustle culture that surrounds many of us, there is a sharpened focus on mental health and the practices that can help improve it.

I was listening to a favorite podcast, The Skinny Confidential, and they had guest, Ethan Kross, on to talk about “how to learn to control and understand the voice in your head.” Listen here. At the time, I was going through a tough season of anxiety (read more here on that) and I wanted to learn more about tools I could use to combat it. I found this episode enlightening and ordered his book before finishing the podcast. I can tell you that the book changed my view of anxiety and overall has helped me immensely in my journey with it.

Chatter by Ethan Kross is a self-help book that explores how our inner voice, or "chatter," can either help or hinder us in our daily lives. Kross, a psychologist, and professor at the University of Michigan draw on his research and personal experience to offer practical advice on how to harness the power of our inner voice and turn it into a positive force.

The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different aspect of chatter. Part One explores the science of chatter, examining how it can affect our emotions, behavior, and decision-making. Part Two offers strategies for managing negative chatter, including mindfulness, cognitive reappraisal, and self-compassion. Part Three delves into the social aspects of chatter, examining how our relationships and social support systems can impact our inner voice. Overall, Chatter offers a compelling argument for the importance of understanding and managing our inner voice and provides readers with the tools they need to do so effectively.

I’ve personally found that anxiety and mental health is not a one-track, linear path. Sometimes it’s not around and you feel in control and then it hits out of nowhere. Or you are dealing with it every day waiting for relief. I’m not a doctor and I know a book won’t outright cure anything, but I wanted to share some things that have helped me take control of my chatter and keep my anxiety at bay in the hope that sharing helps someone else:

  • Journaling and using the morning pages technique of writing everything down that comes to mind with no filter. Even if you’re in front of the paper and thinking “I don’t know what to write…” write that down. I’ve found this to be really helpful in getting so many things off my mind. It’s also helpful to read back once you’re done writing and see what is bothering you, comes up more than once, or even might sound silly once you read it and think ‘why am I worried about that?’

  • Meditation and sleepcasts: I put off meditation for a long time thinking it was too wonky for me but after a few sessions of trying I've really started to enjoy how it made me feel. I downloaded the Headspace App and love their guided meditations in the morning and the sleepcasts at night to help me fall asleep. You can get 30 days free to try for yourself here.

  • Understanding my triggers and having people be in on what they are. You can read more about that in this blog post, but having my friends and family aware of things that bring me feelings of anxiety and how to help me has been such a relief and calmed a lot of any anxiety that may come up when they’re around.

Here are some other books I’ve loved that touch on mindfulness, habits, and anxiety:

Next on my reading list:

Let me know if y’all have any other suggestions or tips and tricks that help you in the comments. Thanks so much for reading!

5 Places in Nashville to Visit this Spring

Spring in the south is one of my favorite times of the year. The flowers and trees are blooming, the sun is shining consistently, and there are so many great spots to enjoy the city and nature. Whether you’re a local or visiting Nashville, these five spots are great for a Spring visit.

Arrington Vineyards

Head 25 minutes south of Nashville to Arrington Vineyards. This is one of our favorite spots to enjoy the weather and relax. Spend an afternoon enjoying a wine flight (or our favorite, a frose!) and take in the beautiful views. The 95-acre property has five tasting rooms, gorgeous views, live music on Saturdays and Sundays, and shaded picnic areas. You can bring your own food for a picnic or grab something from the winery like charcuterie, chips, etc. Every weekend in April through November, the gourmet food shop “Simply Living Life” serves freshly prepared take-out food at the Pavilion and Barn areas. Fridays are Food Truck Fridays where you can enjoy some of Nashville’s best food truck offerings (The Mac Shack is our favorite, but they’re all great!). Pro-tip: while there, be sure to look for the tree swings for cute and more private areas to relax. So, grab a picnic blanket, friends, and some wine for a memorable weekend.

Frist Art Museum

Located in the Gulch, the Frist Art Museum is an award-winning museum in Nashville. It’s housed in an Art Deco building from the 1930s and exhibits change frequently. The museum does not have any permanent collections which means that the experience is different every time that you visit. The size of the museum is great, but doable so you aren’t getting lost in galleries for hours on end. They also offer programs like drop-in drawing, architecture tours, multisensory gallery experiences, and member-only events.

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

Cheekwood is a favorite for both locals and visitors. The property contains botanical gardens, an arboretum, and a museum. The mansion on the estate was built for the Cheeks in 1929 and now houses world-class art exhibits. Enjoy strolling through the 13 gardens. During the spring, over 250,000 bulbs are on display - Cheekwood in Bloom - is open from March 11 – April 9. Grab tickets and take in the beautiful scenery. They also have a cafe serving a casual, made-to-order menu including soups, sandwiches, salads, smoothies, baked goods, a children’s menu, snacks, coffee selections, and alcoholic beverages. It’s open Tuesday-Sunday 9 am - 4 pm.

12 Avenue South

Located in the 12 South neighborhood, 12th Avenue South is a street featuring some of the best shopping and dining destinations in Nashville. Whether you want gourmet restaurants, coffee houses, bakeries, or boutiques, you’ll find it on 12th Ave. Favorites like Five Daughters Bakery, White’s Mercantile, and Stoney Clover Lane are all located here. For upscale dining, try Urban Grub or Josephine, and for a great burger head to Bottle Cap. Some other favs: Bar Taco, Edley’s BBQ, and The Frothy Monkey. Reese Witherspoon’s flagship clothing stores Draper James, LoveShackFancy, Emojene + Willie, and Gorjana are also great stops for shopping.

Franklin Farmer’s Market

During the Spring and Summer months, we love visiting the Franklin Farmer’s Market on Saturdays. Filled with fresh, locally grown produce, flowers, food trucks, and baked goods, it’s such a fun way to start the weekend. The Franklin Farmers Market is located behind The Factory, at the corner of Franklin Road and Liberty Pike and hours are 9 am - 12 pm. Take my word for it when I suggest you go early. The farmer’s market is very popular and can get crowded closer to the afternoon hours.

Grab some donuts from Ellie’s Old Fashioned Donuts, walk around the produce sections, and be sure to grab some fresh flowers for the week ahead while supporting the local vendors. Once you’ve grabbed your goods, head inside The Factory and check out more local stores, great tacos at Mojo’s Tacos, and a scoop of Jeni’s Ice Cream. If you’re looking to extend your day a bit more, head south on Franklin road and walk around the heart of downtown Franklin for cute shops, restaurants, and charming stores.

Spring is such a great time to visit Nashville so check out some of the best spots in town and comment below any other favorites the TCB community should try! Thanks so much for reading!