Growing up in the South, it wasn't uncommon to have the feeling that a village raised you. Your best friend's family basically becomes family, your cheerleading coach knows your cousins, your neighbors have grown up with you for 10 years and you've been babysat by your third grade teacher. 

When thinking about life lessons I was finding myself learning from all the amazing women around me, regardless of blood relation. I wanted to share some wisdom from the multiple women in my life who inspire me.

1) Never show up to someone's home without something to offer.

We all know the "hostess gift" rule for parties or get togethers, but as my momma always taught me, this includes any time that you are a guest in someone's home. It is a thoughtful gesture in any setting and the host or hostess will be delighted.

2) Nails should always be painted

My best friend's grandmother instilled this into us at a very young age as we were running around barefoot at the lake. Chipped nails are unacceptable, no excuses!

3) A man may be the head of the household, but a woman is the neck

Words to live by! My grandmother was speaking about my grandfather when she told me this, but I think it is such an interesting outlook to have on relationships. Neither can work without each other and while decisions can be made, the direction of those decisions are usually decided by the ladies ;) 

4) Handwritten Notes

These days, most people are content with a follow-up email or thank you email. That's the standard. So, why not exceed those standards to what was the standard a few decades ago? Handwritten notes are such thoughtful and personal touches. And nothing is more satisfying to my type-A personality thank well-designed, monogramed thank you notes!

5) Treat the bus driver as you would the President

Regardless of who the person is, treat them as you would want to be treated. Treat the bus driver, Uber driver, waitress, Governor, homeless man on the corner, doorman, your boss, mother the same. Having this characteristic will take you far and you never know how much a smile can make someone's day, no matter who they are.

6) Vulgarity is no substitute for wit

While this quote is not technically from a woman in my life, I think every woman should remember it. Julian Fellowes is the mind behind the words and I try to remember it daily. 

7) Never let someone leave your home hungry

I'm not sure if this is a Southern thing or a mom thing, but growing up many of my friend's moms would make it a point to never let anyone go hungry... even if they just ate! I always want anyone who comes into our home (ok 490 sq. ft!) to feel welcomed and not wishing for anything. 

8) You won't be your best if your outfit makes you uncomfortable

My step-mom was such a huge help to me during the interviewing process looking for jobs and this statement stuck out to me because it is so true! I, of course, raided her amazing closet before a big interview and had on an outfit that looked fantastic, but I didn't feel like myself. When she said those words to me I was so relieved. I was trying to "look the part" and looking back it would have completely changed how the interview went. 

As simple as it may sound, there is no point in putting yourself in a situation where you can't be the best version of yourself - even if that means turning down a St. John blazer!

Clearly there are so many women in my life that aren't pictured above or have a personal shoutout, but thank you to all the incredible women in my life who shape me into who I am. I hope the inspiring women in my life connected with you on some level! Thank you so much for reading my corner of the internet! 

Long time no see! 

February has been the craziest month at work thus far and to say I haven't had any time to blog would be an understatement. As much as I love TCB, it has to take a back burner to the big girl job. However, when I saw that today was International Happiness Day I knew I needed to write a post because blogging is one of the many things that make me happy. My favorite blogger, Katey McFarlan, of Chronicles of Frivolity, posted about today and made a Happiness list. I thought this was a great idea to remember the little things in life and I wanted to share with y'all! 

One thing that will forever make me happy are when my favorite designers have awesome sales! March 21st is the last day of the Tory Burch Private Sale and there are items up to 70% off! You can check it out here!

I think it is so important to really remember what makes you happy even if that means making a list to remind yourself. We all get so caught up in our work, school, kids or our mile long to-do list, but what is really important is how we define our happiness and doing the things that make us happy. For most of my senior year in college I was so caught up in defining myself in what job I would be offered after I graduated or what grades I got on my last final exams. The more people I meet in Chicago, the more times I hear about their jobs and careers rather than their personal life when I ask them about themselves. Why are we so dedicated to defining ourselves by what we do instead of who we are?

Things That Makes Me Happy:

1) Sunday mornings

2) Laughing with Kollin

3) Bookstores

4) Shoe sales

5) Phone calls with my dad 

6) Random dance parties with my best friend [Yes, Grey's Anatomy style - looking at you Linds!]

7) Fresh flowers

8) Candles burning

9) The Monet Room at The Art Institute

10) Long talks with Kollin over a glass of wine

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Valentine's Day has been kind of a weird holiday for Kollin and I because for four years of college we were only able to celebrate together once. So, until now we haven't really had the chance to celebrate anything more than sending a care package of baked goods to Colorado or a love letter in the mail. This year we are spending the whole day celebrating by seeing an amazing Van Gogh exhibit at the Art Institute followed by dinner. What are your V-Day plans?!

I love to think about Valentine's Day as a time to give something to your guy that they normally wouldn't spend money on themselves. A nice shaving kit or a weekend bag is simple, but thoughtful and shares that you are giving something they need.

Valentine's Day is also a day to celebrate the gals in your life! A delicious smelling candle or these cute tassel earrings are perfect for a best friend, sister or cousin! Or if you're anything like me, you use any holiday as an excuse to buy yourself a little something!

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Every 6 months I try and go through my clothes and clean out what I don't wear anymore or needs to be thrown out because I've had it for a while. This usually ends up with me cleaning out about three shirts and then rationalizing the things in the maybe pile back into my closet. But, this year I really committed and got rid of a big chunk of things that were just taking up space. I stuck to these three rules:

1) If I hadn't worn it in the past 6 months

2) If I wouldn't buy it in the store today

3) If it was damaged or ratty looking

When I had finished cleaning everything out, I realized there were now some places in my wardrobe that needed a pick-me-up. Business wear was definitely a need. You can save quite a bit of money if you splurge on the basics (a nice blazer, black pencil skirt, black pumps, etc.) and buy colorful blouses and accessories. This allows you to get more for your money and more variety in your wardrobe. One of my favorite places to go for blouses and colorful shirts is H&M. At reasonable prices and unique styles you get everything you need in one place, including the basics!

H&M is currently having a sale with discounts as high as 80% off! Check it out here!

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It is finally getting cold in Chicago [ apparently cold means below 20 degrees to true Chicagoans ] and that means preparing for the season! Two of the most important things to take care of during the winter? Your skin & feet! 

I've been wanting a Clarisonic for a few years and finally bit the bullet and made the investment. While I found spending $100 on something that washes your face to be a little ridiculous, I couldn't be happier that I did. I could tell a difference of my skins texture and luster after one use! When used twice a day [ I use it at night before bed and in the morning before work ] I can really tell the difference in the way moisturizer soaks in and how my makeup lays on my skin. If there is one thing that you're looking for to transform your skin - this is it!

When I ordered my Clarisonic I received a sample of Bobbi Brown Extra Repair Moisture Cream. Being happy with my current routine, I was hesitant to try it, but I put it on before bed one night and my skin still felt really moisturized and smooth when I woke up the next morning. The formula is thicker than what I typically use and it is somewhat scented, but I found that this moisturizer really soaked into the layers of my skin at a great rate [not too heavy and not to absorbent too quickly]. Sometimes I have to reapply moisturizer even a few hours after I put it on, especially with the colder weather, but this one is so hydrating you don't need to! It is on the pricy side, but will last you for months! It is definitely on my 'splurge' list. If there is one thing you should definitely splurge on, it is your skin to be healthy.

This Christmas was definitely a shoe Christmas for me! When Kollin and I decided to move to Chicago, I knew I would need winter shoes and everyone in college raved about Hunter rain boots. They were totally right. These boots can make it through anything and are really warm! 

I wear them on my commute to work when I have to walk through the snowy-slush on the sidewalks. When I make it to work, I slip into these Sam Edelman pumps. Kollin gifted me to them for Christmas and I have never worn a more comfortable pair of pumps in my life. I can wear them all day at work without my feet being sore. They are definitely my favorite pair and come in other fun colors when the seasons change too!

I've posted about The Peach Box on the blog before, and I received some pieces for Christmas and am IN LOVE. The jewelry is so well made and chic for the price. [$28 for a complete look alike Cartier bracelet? UM YES PLEASE!] The Peach Box has really trendy, but classic pieces at a very reasonable price! 

My last January favorite is OPI's Funny Bunny nail polish. I think white is chic any time of year and goes with anything! The pale color also makes you look a litter tanner during the winter season!  

Thank you for reading! Is there anything on your favorites list? I would love to hear about them!

As the first day of 2016 is here, I look back on 2015 as a year of change. I graduated from The University of Kentucky, moved to a new city with the love of my life, started a new job and chopped off 10 inches of hair. To say the least, there's been a lot of new things headed my way. With 2016 being the first full year out of undergrad, the pressure for adult life sometimes sets in. But, looking forward I wanted to set realistic, opportunity-driven goals.

As cliché as it is, I usually always try to come up with at least one New Year's resolution. When starting my new job, my boss and I discussed goals I wanted to set for myself, both personally and professionally. Having this in mind, I came up with a list of things that I want to accomplish or  start on the path of accomplishing in 2016. 

Give More.

I take the bus each day to work and I pass the same homeless man every morning about a block from my building. Everyday I see him and every day he tells me how much he likes my shoes. As silly as it was the first time he said it, it became a ritual for us in the morning. I would pass him and say, "Good Morning," and he says, "Good Morning, I like those shoes!" 

I am guilt ridden pretty much everyday because I usually cannot give this man more than a smile and "Good Morning" each day. In Chicago it is hard to not have this feeling as you pass multiple homeless men and woman on each block. I wish I could help them all, but as you know, you give what you can. In 2016, I want to strive to give more of myself, whether that be monetary or not. I want to be more intentional about giving back.

Dive Deeper.

As most of you have read, I struggled with finding a job after graduating in May. The industry I thought I would be thriving in, is the one that wouldn't hire me. As you can imagine this was a big blow. To not be where you were pretty certain you would be creates somewhat of an identity crisis. With that being said, I took a leap and tried something new - a completely new industry, while still doing what I love. 

I want to adapt this to all aspects of my life. I want to try new things and once I've tried them I don't want to be scared to dive deeper into them and really find out how they can create value in my life. 

Grow the Blog

2015 was a confusing year for TCB. During my months of finding a job, I had tons of time to devote to TCB and all that running it entails. The blog received more hits, likes, comments and shares than ever before. As my job and work load grew, the blog took a downward turn and so did my motivation to really put effort into keeping the momentum. I apologize to y'all who have been wanting more, but I'm hoping to change this in 2016 and really be devoted to something I love doing so much. 

I've had great feedback from readers and want to give y'all the best experience through TCB. I'm going to be committed to making blogging more of a priority this year!

Deepen My Relationship with God

While I wouldn't call myself deeply religious, I began feeling like something was missing this year. I follow two pretty popular bloggers regularly and began reading their outlooks on God and the way it has affected their lives. 

Kollin and I got back into going to mass and I always had better days and weeks when we did. I began praying more, learning more about the Bible and Jesus' life and thought that if I call myself Catholic I should know more about the person I'm praying to. I bought a journaling Bible and began doing daily devotionals. I really enjoyed having that time, but as I'm sure many of you can relate to, adulting got in the way. Long days at work and the normal household duties were pushing my motivation for "quiet time" down. In 2016 I want to be more devoted to this relationship. If you've been where I am and have some advice about your path through the journey I would love to hear about it!

Always Be Learning

I'm a pretty curious person to begin with, but in 2016 I want to be even more curious about culture, political events, news, art, music and more. I personally think that no matter your age, it is so important to keep learning and developing. The people I've met and opportunities I've had in just 6 months in Chicago [how has it been that long?!] have already taught me so much, I can't wait to see what 2016 will teach me! 

What are your New Year's resolutions? I would love to hear from you! 

Michael Kors Handbag | Sam Edelman Booties | Sam Edelman Cheetah Pump | Marc by Marc Jacobs Watch | Woven Heart Poncho

You're halfway through the week and that is plenty of reason to celebrate! If you're anything like me, you wait until the last possible second to do your Christmas shopping, which usually means you resort to online sales. Well, Nordstrom has saved me and my fellow procrastinators with their Fall Clearance Sale.

There are items in every category from clothing, shoes, accessories and even skincare in this sale! Everything is at least 20% off and some items like jeans and booties are at great prices! While some of the items may not be for the current weather, now is the best time to buy for upcoming seasons (looking at you Spring Break!)

Above are some of my picks from the sale! The gold detailing on these booties is so chic and will definitely add some pep in that step. Sam Edelman is a great designer that makes shoes that last and are comfortable. I own a pair of his d'Orsay pumps and they are so comfortable to wear around the office all day and walking through the city, even more reason to pick them up in Cheetah for 40% off!

This poncho caught my attention because it looks really similar to the Burberry one that every fashion blogger is raving about, but homegirl can obvi not afford! The colors are great for Fall and can easily transition between a more casual look or dressed up ensemble.

I hope everyone enjoys the rest of their week and that this post helped you get through the mid-week slump! Happy shopping y'all!

I recently made a purchase and couldn't be happier with how it turned out! I have been looking for a great Celine dupe for years and haven't been successful until now! It's a great size and comes in great colors that are very similar to the original. You can find it in a small and large size, here!

FYI the beige color is a little darker in person than it appears in the picture, but still very cute! If you're looking for something a little smaller, this bag is perfect. It's a great crossbody size and comes in three wonderful neutral colors. The black and white is as close as you can get to the original Celine, but is currently sold out. But, you can add yourself to the waitlist to be notified of when it is restocked.