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Sweatshirt by Rendered Printing, jeans by Vince, kicks by Nike.

During class today, I was talking to my students about how it's important to take ownership of their own educations. I can provide instruction, and make things interesting for them, but in the end, they have to choose to learn. Obviously every student learns in different ways and that's a whole different discussion, but the fact that if they kick back and relax, they're not going to get the same education as if they put 100% into everything they do whether it's an extremely engaging activity or worksheet practice.

I see this also applying to adults. We get out of it what we put into it. It doesn't matter what it is we're attempting - a college degree, a career, a change in career, making a relationship work, raising your kids...whatever we put into it is ultimately what we get out of it.

So I challenge you, whatever your endeavors, to give 100%, even when it's hard.

Jennica

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Button up by Guess, belt by Gap, jeans by Joe's Jeans, heels by Jessica Simpson.

One of the assignments my students are working on involve identifying character traits in the main character in the story. I provided a list of about 50 character traits for students to use as a resource. While looking more closely at them, it was interesting to talk to the students about how people can have good and bad character traits. We also talked about how it's important to identify our bad character traits and be intentional about changing them.

In the end what counts is who we are as people and not our outer shell, aka - our reputation.

Food for thought,

Jennica

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Vintage blazer by Spellbound by Ricardo, top by Will Smith, leggings by B.P., boots by Loeffler Randall.

The other day a friend was inquiring, "How long exactly does it take to do everything for your blog every night?!" Which got me to thinking, I had guesses but no actual time. So tonight was the night - I timed it, and am timing it as we speak, so I guess it depends on how long winded I am...

Though not ideal, I have the frame of my backdrop up in my room, and the lighting kit stands up but tucked in a corner. Which means all I have to do is attach the umbrellas, lay down the white sheet on the floor, set up my tripod and self-timer away! As of tonight, that process took me ten minutes. 

I then go down to my computer, upload the images, edit them with my editing software, export them to the appropriate file, email them to myself so that I can use a photo collage app on my phone, email it back, and then upload it to my blog...Whew! That parts actually pretty annoying... But it ends up taking me about ten minutes to do all that.

THEN, it depends on how long-winded I am. AKA, last nights blog took a little bit longer, but typically if I know what I'm going to write about, it takes about ten minutes.

THEN, I post to Facebook.

All in all, I would say from start to finish, (Shiny Object Syndrome accounted for) I'm wrappin' it up in less than an hour, sometimes even 30 minutes. Not bad for everything that I just spouted off, eh? Considering how much time one typically spends on a computer or watching TV, everyone has time for a fashion blog! ;)

Ciao for now!

Jennica

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Jacket by Levis, top by MOD Lusive, jeans by Seven for All Mankind, booties by Trouve.

My Grandma turned 85 years old recently and to celebrate the occasion, I brought her cupcakes tonight. But not just any cupcakes. Recommended by my friend Emily, I bought a Groupon for a quaint little bakery in Old Town Sherwood called Sweet Story Bakery. As I stepped into the shop today, other than dodging small children debatably in need of sedatives from the excitement of cupcakes, candy, and delightfully frosted cookies, my mouth began to slowly drip from anticipation of a sugary sweet. The glass cases were filled with gooey goodness, staring back at me, straight into my soul. After mopping up the drool from the floor, I chose speckle-frosted oreo, sweet salted caramel, crunchy butter finger, and luscious raspberry cream cupcakes, the frosting ever-so-perfectly placed. Though I wanted to devour every last crumb and not leave any for Grandma (she would never know!!), I gathered strength, tied the tiffany blue ribbon that wrapped the brown box even tighter and went on my way, leaving the non-sedated children behind.

Once I arrived at the Friendsview Manner, Grandma was eagerly awaiting me in the Manner lobby. After hugs and hellos, she linked her arm in mine and joyfully guided us to the dining room. Apparently Tuesdays and Thursdays are special nights because I got to check off items from a menu and was ever--so-graciously served by the kitchen staff! It was lovely to chat with a table chalk full of wise souls and the dinner wasn't too bad either. :)

During our table conversation, I learned that tonight was a George Fox Women's game, challenging their rival - the Linfield Wildcats. Grandma said they put it up on the big screen downstairs and I couldn't help but stay to help cheer on the Bruins with my Grandma. Being the first ones downstairs to ensure a good seat, and so other residents wouldn't high-jack the TV to watch the President's State of the Union Address, we made good use of our twenty minutes by arranging the furniture for better viewing and had great conversation. Slowly but surely the residents trickled in and the game began. With dozers, nose blowers, people attempting to whisper by cupping their hand to their neighbor and yelling, things being repeated to the same person in the double digits, toupees, innocent christian-like jokes about the other team, and Grandma by my side, I'm quite confident this was one of the most fun times I've had watching a basketball game to date.

Cheers to 85 well-lived years Grandma. You may be short, but your love and compassion for others is truly a slam dunk.

Jennica

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Top by Trouve, sweater by Matthews - New York, leggings by B.P., boots by Cole Haan.

After work I stopped by Target to get a tub for organizational purposes. All my tubs for organization are from there so they stack easily and all look the same (for my own OCD purposes). When I was checking out, the cashier with a surprised voice stated, "Wow you sure are getting out with the bare minimum!" At first I wasn't sure why it was such a big deal that I was leaving with only a measly tub. But then I realized that I'm pretty sure I've never made it out of Target with only one item. Talk about the easiest place for impulse buys galore! 

To say the least, it was an empowering moment walking out of Target, tub in hand, cash in my pocket. Before you go into a store, have a list. If you think you might want to stumble across something fun and unique, then set a budget for yourself. "OK, so I have $50 to spend on this list of items. If I come across anything fun, it needs to stay under $20." Obviously you can't do that every time, because you'd be broke very quickly. But nonetheless, process your intentions before entering a store. You'll spend less time in there, less money, and you'll have less stuff to manage!

Toodles,

Jennica

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Hat by Forever 21, sweater by Gap, scarf by Old Navy, jeans by Joe's Jeans, boots from Target.

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Sweater by Mossimo, jeans by Anoname, heels by Vince, scarf refashioned from a dress.

I swear every time I buy a Groupon, I don't use it until right before it's going to expire or I miss the date it expires and then only have the value of what I actually paid. Today was not going to be one of those days. In an attempt to beat the expiration date, my boyfriend, Megan, Lindsay and I headed out to Ardiri Winery in the boondocks, also known as Cornelius. With a view of Mount hood and earth toned hills rolling beyond the horizon, the beat of my heart slowed, I soaked in the sun (and the heat from the fire place...) and embraced this simple momentary getaway. Pleasantly surprised - Lindsay brought guacamole (Jennica Crack), torilla chips, pineapple, and pretzels and single-handedly changed my life. Catching up on life couldn't have been more delightful! I'm so thankful for friends and a boyfriend who are willing to be spontaneous and adventurous at any given time.

To top the day off, my mom and I took a painting class from Vine Gogh Artist Bar! Below is a pic of the final product. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought that my mom and I would be painting on canvas, elbow to elbow, but it's one of our favorite hobbies to share together!

XOXO,

Jennica

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Vintage sweater, lace skirt by Tulle, booties by Report.

Last night I had the privilege of joining my friend Megan and some of her coworkers for dining out and a Gregory Allen Isokov/Josh Ritter concert at the Aladdin Theatre. Starting the night out, we raised glasses at Produce Row, a quaint, sophisticated restaurant with a cleverly written menu, beards for days, and plaid like there's no tomorrow. We then headed to the concert venue.

With the music being a little more laid back and a 21 and over crowd, it was acceptable to sit for the whole thing #perksofbeingthirty. With Gregory Allen Korsikov kicking things off, his voice melted into the rafters and the musical notes danced cartwheels off the stage, jumping from shoulder to shoulder, dissipating into one's soul. Lights dimmed, Gregory's sidekick violinist made folk music that even a heavy metal enthusiast would turn an ear to.

After admission, Josh Ritter took the stage with a smile and the smile didn't stop until he stepped off. His music was very different from anything I've ever heard. With an amish looking guy who gave a centaur a run for his money on his right, and another guy who's pointy mustache and thick rimmed glasses gave him a timeless look on his left, they played mesmerizing melodies to fill the stage, accompanying Ritter making magic. 

With laughter, inside jokes, friendship and music, it was definitely a night to remember.

Jennica

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#badhairday #everydayisabadhairday

Sweater by Linda Matthews-New York, peplum top by Valerie Bertinelli, coated skinnies by Rich and Skinny, booties by MIA.

I hate to admit it, but I'm finally now just back in the swing of things as far as working out goes. And it feels good. During the workouts it's not always fun, but feeling sore afterwards is one of the most invigorating feelings ever! 

The other day, I was having a conversation with my Mom and she told me that she and some of her colleagues are going to do a push up challenge. I got to thinking that might be a fun thing to do with my staff as well. So I threw it out to the staff to join me in working towards doing 100 push ups within a 30 minute time period (at one's own pace) and also be able to do at least a 90 second plank by March 13th (the Thursday before Spring Break). Then I got to thinking again (that can get dangerous...) and I thought, "Why not throw out the challenge to my blog readers too?!" So here is goes.

I challenge you to:

1. Be able to do 100 push ups (Good form people!) in a time span of 30 minutes.
2. Be able to do a 90 second plank without your knees touching the ground.

If you start today with two push ups and add two push ups each day, on Thursday, 3/13 you will be able to do 100 push ups!! Leave a message in my comment section below or on my Facebook page if you're in. Then we can be moral support for each other and be fit for Spring Break!

Even if you can't quite make it to 100 in 30 minutes, no problem. That's just a number to shoot for. If you're consistently doing push ups and planks every day, you will be more fit than if you didn't!

One tip is to do push ups and planks during commercials, every fifteen minutes while you're on your computer, or first thing in the morning to energize yourself for the day.

Let me know if you're in - I'd love to have moral support and an encouraging team on this journey and I would love to encourage you too!!

XOXO

Jennica

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Sweater by Spence, jewelry by Elizabeth Perry, skinnies by Mine, heels by Cole Haan.

I was thinking this morning as I got dressed how it's a little trickier to accessorize a cowel neck sweater. It's harder to wear a necklace so one might as well just go for the big statement earrings. Well, I think I found a way around that. I ended up wearing one of my long necklaces and wore the chain underneath the cowel neck. You can see how it's hanging in front but isn't laying awkwardly over the cowel neck. I then paired the necklace with my favorite Elizabeth Perry golden leaf earrings. Now if only I could make it so my sweater wouldn't shed all over my pants...

Happy Hump Day y'all!

Jennica

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Sweater by Robert Comstock, jeans by Vince, boots by Bronx.

If you look closely at my head - may be a scary sight...I actually took a scarf and turned it into a headband. I started by placing the center of my narrow scarf at the nape of my neck, and bringing it forward to the center of my forehead. I then twisted it once, and brought it back down to the nape of my neck. At that point, depending on the scarf, you can either tuck each end under or tie it in a knot. I have never tied a scarf like this before, and I actually ended up liking it. However, depending on what material your scarf is, it can be a little uncomfortable. I would recommend cotton or silk.

Give it a shot! Enjoy your week and the sun!!

Jennica

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 Sweatshirt by Nike, jeans by Cello, shoes by Nike.

Thanks to Martin Luther King Jr. and his commitment to change, we have today off - at least most of us. People see a three day weekend as an opportunity to plan a getaway with friends or family and often times forget to spend a moment acknowledging the depth and breadth of impact MLK actually had on more than the US, but the world.

Image compliments of Tenley Molzahn

His commitment to change empowered the oppressed to have a voice. His commitment to change allowed the emotionally blind to see with new eyes. His commitment to change leveled the playing field for all. His commitment to change allowed the world to begin joining hands in peace rather than throwing punches. And his commitment to change drove out darkness with light.

In order for this change to continue however, it means that those that learn about it must pick up the torch and carry it on to the next generation. Change does not happen without it's workers. Change does not happen in the hands of the passive. Change does not happen in the hearts of the selfish. Change begins with you.

Be the change you want to see in the world. Pick up the torch.

~Jennica

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Dress by H&M, sweater by BCBG Maxazria, booties by Report.

Today I had the opportunity to help out at the Human Beauty booth at the Portland Bridal Show! It was fun to talk to brides about the details of their weddings and hear what each one is envisioning. It was also fun to discuss potential ideas for their bridal accessories!

I wore all black because black is classy and doesn't distract from the point of being at the show - to help the brides.

XOXO,

Jennica

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Necklace and poncho by BCBG, jeans by Rock & Republic, wedges by Cole Haan.

You know you're thirty when you stay in on a Saturday night and clean...and like it.

~Jennica

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Zip up by Adidas, jeans by Armani Exchange, kicks by Nike.

Here are a couple veils/head pieces I made recently. This has been a fun art for me to get into and I have really enjoyed the process!

   

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Denim jacket by J.Crew, scarf from T.J.MAXX, shirt by Xhiliration, jeans by Seven For All Mankind, shoes by Bronx.

I bought this jacket a LONG time ago, on sale of course, when I was shopping with my brother. My brother and I used to shop together as much as I did WWF....but regardless, we were shopping together and I came across this jacket on the sale rack. I liked it a lot but didn't know if I liked it THAT much. I didn't want to just buy it because it was on sale - done that a few too many times. So I relied on my brother's final stamp of approval. His advice was that he liked it because it was more or less timeless and would be in style for quite a while, therefore getting my use out of it. Was my bro right? Absolutely. I literally have probably had this jacket ten years, and I wear it enough to justify keeping it in my closet. Thanks for the nudge on that one bro!

Don't just buy something because it's on sale. Ask yourself if you'll wear it enough so that it will cost $1 per wear. Obviously there are special occasions/pieces, but you get the idea. That will help you stop and think how much you actually love it.

Sale or not, is it timeless? Will you wear it a lot?

Jennica

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Vintage chevron sweater, jeans by Anoname, boots by Steve Madden.

In spirits of yesterday's post, today my motto was just do it. Thanks Nike for the inspiration...It more or less sums up Thomas Jefferson's words of wisdom (see yesterday's post). Today, anytime I was lacking in motivation, energy (perma low iron - ugh.), or avoiding the "ditch digging" tasks, I would tell myself to just do it. This may not be a novel thought to you, In fact it sounds kind of ridiculous...why do I need to tell myself to just do it?? But it seemed to work for me today. I think internal conversations are what makes us successful, creates more discipline and allows ourselves to listen in on how we really feel about certain things.  In relation to today's struggle, I thought about the fact that if I work my tail off now, I won't need to make excuses later. I ended up staying a little later at work to get a few extra things done, and when I got home, I didn't let myself get on the computer. Instead I went through my mail, cooked a pretty legit dinner, and the kitchen is all cleaned up! And now I will sleep at ease. I'm sure y'all have that all mastered ;).

Just do it.

Jennica

PS-Stay tuned for some items I'm making for the upcoming Portland Bridal Show this Saturday! Human Beauty will be featuring me as a designer- I'm thrilled to have this opportunity!! Can't wait!

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Scarf from T.J.MAXX, sweater by New York, jeans by Vince, wedges by 

Here is some food for thought. This is what I've been working on lately. It's so easy to waste hours away...

"determine never to be idle. No person will have occasion to complain of the want of time who never loses any. It is wonderful how much may be done if we are always doing."

~Thomas Jefferson

Having a head-cold isn't helping me with being productive at the moment, but I'm striving to be more efficient with my time, and be intentional about stepping away from technology. 

XOXO

Jennica

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Jacket by Forever 21, scarf refashioned from dress, skinnies by Jessica Simpson, boots by Loeffler Randall.

Today is my friend Megan's birthday. We met through church but didn't become friends until one special day...

A few of us had decided to take a trip to the beach. It ended up being our friends Ben, Tim, Megan and myself. Megan and I had recently met and weren't well acquainted yet and now had a whole day to get to know each other! We decided to go to Tillamook - not sure how we concluded that was our destination, but we headed off to the land of milk and cheese. While at the Tillamook Cheese Factory, we made our mandatory ice cream pit stop, then proceeded to actually read the signs describing the process and history of cheese making. Let's be honest, all you Oregonians didn't read those signs/descriptions as a kid! Before leaving, we made sure to sample all the cheeses and I have to say, the pepperjack took home the gold.

After meandering through the rest of the factory, we proceeded to Blue Heron, where they had locally made jams, cheeses, wine and more! After tasting a sampling of their wine, we got some goodies of our own, and headed down to the chilly Oregon beach. Through good conversations, beautiful views, and scrumptious bites, Megan and I kicked off our friendship right.

Five years later (is that right?!), we are still sharing silly and deep conversations, paddle boarding and hiking together, and an energy for life. Happy birthday Megan and cheers to your life and your accomplishments thus far. AND I'm totally buying a copy of the first book you write whenever that day comes!!

"let us be grateful to people who make us happy, they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom."

~Marcel Proust

Jennica

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Hat by Hurley, sweatshirt by Merona, pants by Spring Street, boots by Loeffler Randall.

Today I wore my fuzzy (for lack of better word) lined hoodie that I haven't worn yet this year. I forgot how cozy this is!! It's funny because I find myself not going for this sweatshirt first, because I don't necessarily feel like it's the most flattering thing in the world. But as I take a step back and look at the pic above, I actually like it alot...go figure. 

So when you're looking in the mirror, step back and look at yourself through new eyes - because you never know what you might see.

Jennica

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Hat by Forever 21, sweater by Frederick's of Hollywood, jeans by Rock & Republic, heels by Vince Camuto.

There's nothin' like a fedora and a chunky sweater on a blistery day like today. I wore the sweater clearly because it's just so cozy!! And I love wearing fedoras on rainy days because it catches the rain drops so my face isn't the gutter. Hats are also great, especially for people like me, because I don't have to mess with my hair - I can just flip it upside down, throw some product in it, put my hat on and I'm out the door.

As you know, I'm reading the book, You are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life, by Jen Sincero, and I'm really enjoying it! It's a very inspirational book. She makes numerous points that are motivating and thought provoking. One point she makes in the book is that we need to forgive ourselves for our past mistakes. She says that, "...guilt, shame, and self-criticism are some of the most destructive forces in your life...," continuing on to make the point that being bold and forgiving ourselves is one of the most powerful actions we can take.

I have to say that I'm one of my worst critics and I find that I dwell on mistakes I've made or stupid things I've done. I sit and reminisce on them and cringe, and think, "Why did I do that!?" or "Why did I say that?!" or "Why didn't I do that?!" With me vs. me it's a no brainer that neither of us are going to win, no matter the previous stats.

Now I'm not saying that if you have a concience and you did something bad, maybe it's telling you to evaluate what you've done and come up with an action plan so that you become a better person. Regardless, we can't change the past, we can only march ahead. So instead of beating yourself up over these things day in and day out, allow yourself to be forgiven and move on.  Jen Sincero recommends an internal conversation that can look something like this, and if you're spiritual, I would imagine that you would involve God in this conversation and put your own spin on it:

Holding onto my bad feelings about this is doing nothing but harming me, and everyone else, and preventing me from enjoying my life fully. I am an awesome person and I choose to enjoy my life. I choose to let this go.

Don't live a life of guilt, shame, self-deprecation. Choose joy, freedom, and life.

Jennica

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Sweater by BCBG, scarf by BDG., skinnies by H&M, booties from Italy.

It's Friday night, I looked to post a funny quote from Pinterest and I thought they were all pretty lame. So to all a good night!!

Jennica

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Jacket by Levi's, long sleeve shirt by OP, scarf by H&M, skirt by Will Smith, boots by Bronx.

I've always wanted an attempt at making hard cider and while visiting our friends Dave and Carisse many times, we had the opportunity to give their homemade hard cider a try. This is what gave DJ and I that extra little nudge to take the next step to go big or go home.

I inherited a cider press, and ideally, one day, I will go even bigger and make hard cider from scratch. But in the mean time, I had a chance to learn how to do it the cheaper way using organic apple juice. Thanks to Dave and Carisse, my boyfriend and I were able to learn the ropes and conjure up our first batch of hard cider!! I did most of the work - a.k.a. pouring a couple gallons of juice in the car boy, and then going back inside to sip wine with Carisse while the guys did the dirty work. Regardless, I still

take credit ;). We're hoping to bottle some up and keep the cycle going - saving money in the long run.

It's always fun to find activities to share with your significant other and this definitely makes the cut.

Cheers to a fun hands-on process and great friends!

Jennica

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Blouse by Tulle, cashmere scarf from China, pants by Forever 21, boots by Cole Haan.

When I was a little girl, and even when I was a not-so-little girl, I grew up on a beautiful farm just outside of Newberg, Oregon, overflowing with piles of kittens, blueberries galore, a super sweet nanny goat, a pasture full of mooing cows and squaking chickens roaming freely. I don't want to talk about the rooster - but I actually will another day because it's a pretty funny story....I have so many memories but there are two specific memories about chickens that stand out.

I wouldn't go as far as to say that chickens are the most cuddly animals on the planet, but when I was about up to my Dad's knees in height, I would valiantly chased the chickens until I couldn't breathe any more in attempts at holding a chicken in my arms, if only for a few moments. Days and months spun by and still they managed a clean get-away. Then one summer day, with the sun glistening through the powerful oak tree, and the smell of the honeysuckle bush in the air, I saw a black and white striped chicken minding it's own business under the delicate plum tree. Not wanting to miss my opportunity to yet again attempt to hold a chicken, I slowly stepped inch by inch, literally, until I was within arms reach of her. Still not moving, she allowed me to pick her up ever so gently and hold her in my arms at last. She was a very sweet chicken and didn't mind letting me hold her for quite a while. I was surprised, seeing as she had gotten away from me numerous times before. But I enjoyed every second. 

Soon enough, she gave me the signal she was ready to move on. I set her down and she waddled off to do whatever else chickens do. And my heart smiled. Ah the simple pleasures of the farm life. I tell this story, because my boyfriend asked me today if in order to eat chicken, would I butcher the chicken myself? I thought on it for a bit, reminisced about my fond memories from the farm, and I have to say I wouldn't have the heart to do it. He then pointed out that it's just interesting that we can't justify doing those things with our own two hands, but we'll let someone else do it...an interesting thing to ponder. Will I keep eating chicken after that conversation? Yes. Does it get me thinking about the world beyond Jennica, beyond Portland, beyond Oregon. Definitely.

On the flip side of my previous heart-warming story (unless you loath chickens), I later found out that we indeed butchered our own chickens for a short stint growing up (*tear)...It turns out when my brother was about five years old, he was quoted while being a part of butchering chickens saying, "This is so fun!" Apparently I don't know how to have fun.

I'm still going to tell myself that girls know how to have more fun.

Jennica

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Navy, hooded, sweatshirt vest by Forever 21, jeans by Plastic By Gly, loafers by Me Too.

With 2014 in full swing, OK - seven days in...things change. Whether it's your habits, new music, new trends - things start to evolve. Within fashion though, many styles hold strong throughout the decades, some trends come and go, and some blossom for the first time. Without further ado, here are the top ten styles/colors/apparel items I predict we're going to be seeing a lot more of (or just as much of) in 2014!

1. All things vintage

www.vintagetextile.com

 2. Black Leather

dress-the-population.fashionstylist.com

 3. Blackout

www.clothesminded.us

 4. Blazer

www.ebay.com

 5. Floral Print

www.christinahh.wordpress.com

 6. Perforated Clothing

www.veridisclothier.wordpress.com

 7. Shades of Red

www.thebestfashionblog.com

 8. Sheer Clothing (Keep it modest though!)

www.elle.com

 9. Tweed

www.pinterest.com

 10. Wide-brimmed Hats

www.scottsdalelivingmagazine.com


Happy Trending!!!

Jennica

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Vest by Nike, zip-up by Helly Hansen, leggings and shoes by Nike.

I watched the BCS Bowl and I have to say I usually cheer for the underdog...so close!!

Jennica

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Shirt by O.P., vest is vintage, jeans by Joe's Jeans, boots by Loeffler Randall. 

Read yesterday's blog (132). I've been in a car for ten hours. Time for bed!!

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Vest by Free People, shirt by Mel and Mo, jeans by Seven For All Mankind, boots by Nike.

Started the day in the hot tub, went on a walk through the snow to the Lake Tahoe beach, ate some ridiculously delicious nachos, laughed until my stomach hurt, ate ou.....

Why didn't I finish my paragraph? Because at that moment, a full glass of water got knocked and spilled onto my laptop. Between expletives, tears, bags of rice larger than I knew existed, more tears, and me holding onto a glimmer of hope that I might be able to recover thousands of images and documents, it was quite an eventful night...

The end.

Jennica

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On The Rocks

Sweater by Moth, peplum top by Petticoat Alley, heels by Rodolfo Valeri. 

(It's really difficult to do my hair with one hand - hence the fro...)

After having an internal and external debate, considering my previous injury, I decided to join the group in hiking up Mt. Tallac to the summit. I just needed some crisp, fresh air, and a little necessary exercise.  In tennis shoes and cropped workout pants, I can't say I was completely prepared for this type of hike. Once we arrived, I scoped out the path, and all I could find was snow...The goal for the day was to reach the top and not re-injure my hand.

Which reminds me! Thanks for all your guesses, joining in the game Two Lies & a Truth! It turns out my injury was somewhat anticlimactic, and I actually sliced it open washing the dishes...If you guessed No. 2, you were right!! It wasn't quite stitch worthy but I'm sure I'll have a lovely scar to ever-remind me of that blissful moment.

Now back to the hike - As we ascended the mountain on the snow-covered trail, we thrillingly stopped at each new viewpoint, in awe of God's country. Pausing ever so often, we listened to the silence and the periodic calling of a winter bird. The stillness was mesmerizing. Continuing on, the hike became more and more difficult, from gentle slope to a never-ending ladder climb. After we came to a clearing not too far from the summit, I looked ahead to see a hike that was practically scaling the face of the mountain. That was my cue not to be stupid. Therefore, I found a rock overlooking Lake Tahoe and the vast expanse below and sent my injury-free friends on their way.

With not a cloud in the sky, I hugged my knees to my chest, in hopes of trapping any heat attempting to escape my body. I then began to breath deep the chilly, snow-scented air, allowing my lungs to burst into icicles. With more than an hour and a half before the rest of  my crew returned from the summit, I had time for reflecting, as well as building rock towers. I built two rock towers. Mainly because that's as many rocks as I had the energy to collect at the time. But also, while in solitude on that rock, I felt God's presence, and though in solitude, I didn't feel alone. From that time alone, I looked at the two towers and saw God standing next to me, on the rock.

Once we descended the mountain, we fueled up with some food, cleaned up and headed up to Reno for some dinner and to check out the somewhat-notorious city...I had never been to Reno or Vegas before so I wasn't sure what I was in for. From a giant serving of chicken and waffles, to learning I can only have one hand on the table playing Black Jack (they mean business down there!), we all had a fabulous time. I can't say I will make a point to frequent Reno, but it was fun while it lasted and I couldn't have been on the rocks with more amazing people!  

XOXO,

Jennica

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Vest by Nike, Shirt by Bellamie, headband from JoAnn's Fabric, jeans by Joe's Jeans, boots by Loeffler Randall.

As you can see, my right hand, though super hard core, is injured. I can't say I'm stoked about it, and injuring one's self on vacation isn't recommended, but thought I would have a little fun with it anyway. Sooooo, I'm going to play two lies and a truth, and then you can guess how I actually hurt my hand...

1. While in Lake Tahoe, my friends and I were on the dock. While trying to take a group picture, my friend's camera was propped up and set on a self timer. Then then wind blew, the phone tipped over and proceeded to take a skydive into the water. Fortunately, the water was shallow, so I jumped in after it to try to save it. I didn't realize how shallow the water was, or that there was a rock right there...and dove into the rock with my hand, scraping it a few layers deep into my skin. I now have to wear a bandage for a while to let it heal, but after the phone was put in rice, it is now functional again.

2. After getting to the cabin, I was checking out the cupboards to see what supplies we had available to us and came across a legit set of glasses that could be used for many styles of fun drinks. We ended up using them that morning to sip on a mimosa and watch a little football. Later that afternoon, it was time to wash dishes and I was the lucky girl for the job. It was also time to wash the really cool glasses. With only a sponge available for dishwashing, I got to it. While scrubbing the inside of the 'special glasses' the edge broke, my hand was still twisting the sponge and I sliced my hand open. I then proceeded to almost pass out from the pain.

3. My friends and I were riding the gondola at Heavenly, enjoying the beautiful view of the vast expanse. About halfway up, I felt the gondola abruptly jerk, and unable to stabilize myself, I began to fall along with everyone else in my car. Since there was nothing to hold onto, I grasped what I could, which unfortunately was a pair of skis.  As I helped myself up, I looked to the skis and saw streaks of blood left behind on the freshly waxed skis. I ended up having a deep slice through the palm of my hand. Fortunately they had an emergency kit and got me temporarily bandaged up, before I was able to get to the emergency room. It turned out that one of the support runners broke and the car dropped 15 ft. Of course it was my gondola...

Now that my hand is cramping...it's hard to type while bandaged up like this (!!), it's your turn to guess which story is true...Share your opinion in the comments below or on my Facebook page and I will reveal the truth tomorrow ;)

With a perma-Baylor "sick 'em Bears" hand,

Jennica

PS-Don't forget to play catch up on previous blog posts!

129:365

Sweater by 2 Apples, shirt by Hard Tail Forever, leggings by B.P., boots by Steve Madden.

The view at Lake Tahoe. ;)

Xoxo 

Jennica