276:365

Poncho by Nike, jeans by anoname, kicks by Nike.

Time stops as the world acknowledges a woman of wonder, a courageou woman, and an artist of the English language. She moved nations, softened hearts, and said words with grace in a way no other could attempt. Rather than attempt my own words to honor Maya Angelou, I will use hers - words that pierced my soul.

Rest in peace Maya. God just gained another Angel.

“I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow. I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights. I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life. I've learned that making a "living" is not the same thing as making a "life." I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back. I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision. I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one. I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back. I've learned that I still have a lot to learn. I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

~Dr. Maya Angelou

Humbled,

Jennica

275:365

Tank by Cynthia Rowley, shawl by Shokay, jeans by Citizens of Humanity.

From watching Extreme Weight Loss, Charita worked her @$$ off for one year, never giving up, though she wanted to more than once. Throughout this show as well as reading other articles the common thread is changing your eating habits. Once eating habits and an exercise routine are established, people see results (varying from person to person of course). But what I really love about Extreme Weight Loss is that you see the lifestyle change, and you see the joy and sparkle in his/her eyes.  You go Charita!

Take your life back.

Jennica

274:365

Outfit by Nike

We take the time today to honor those who have served our country and we take time to honor those that have given their lives to protect us. I am so thankful for their bravery, courage, and sacrifices.

I have to say, Memorial Day weekend has turned into a weekend of special sales for all kinds of stores and businesses. I'm sad that Memorial Day has turned into a weekend to shop, shop, shop! I was relieved when I walked to get a coffee this morning and saw that a home decor shop was closed in honor of Memorial Day. It was refreshing. We don't need to make money off of other people's losses.

That shop will get my business - on a different day than Memorial Day.

I hope you were able to take time today to recognize those that have served our country and made sacrifices for us all.

Thank you!!

Jennica

273:365

Sweater by Linda Matthews New York, tank by H.I.P., belt by GAP, wedges by Guess.

I would like to share an interesting article on self-esteem, a movement to increase it, and the second thoughts that followed. Read Low Self Esteem is Good for You! We've Been Too Successful at Making People Feel Good to get some insight into what direction our younger generations are going and what might need to be done about it.

XOXO,

Jennica

272:365

Poncho by BCBG Maxazria, skinnies by Mine, wedges by Guess.

XOXO,

Jennica

271:365

Blouse by Sweetpea, jeans by H&M, loafers by Me Too.

I had no intention of wearing patriotic colors - it would have been more appropriate for Memorial Day. However, I decided I wanted to wear the red pants, and I knew I hadn't worn this blouse before, it matched, and I was out the door.

Tonight, my boyfriend and I had a fun little impromptu date night - grilling burgers and then games at Big Al's! Amidst our childish fun, we found a game that leveled the playing field; air hockey. Every time it was 6 to 6 with a game point round. The puck flying, pinging off each wall, zigzagging back and forth, one of us was the victor, varying from game to game. Though at the moment, DJ is ahead with a record of 3:2 - this isn't over yet.... ;)

I will be victorious!

Jennica

270:365

Blouse by Halogen, skirt by BCBG Maxazria, heels by Cole Haan.

There were great parts about my day but sometimes we just need a new day to be refreshed and renewed. Today is one of those days.

XOXO,

Jennica

269:365

Top by Bailey 44, slacks by Faisca, flats by Nine West.

As a mid-century Fashion Editor for Bazaar, then becoming the Editor in Chief for Vogue, Diana Vreeland changed the language of fashion indefinitely. She set the bar high and didn't take no for an answer. She didn't stay in the lines, and Vreeland had every woman in America chomping at the bit for the next edition of her biweekly magazine. Diana breathed in beauty, art, and complexities and breathed out what became the cutting edge of fashion, even to this day.

I found this quote through a friend and thought I would share it with you because our job as women is so hard. Keeping up with our femininity can be so exhausting - though it's also one of the perks of many perks of being a woman. Men, if you're reading this, cut your girl a little slack. Tell her she's beautiful when she's not wearing makeup - this is an area of strength for my man - mainly because he doesn't like makeup :). If she isn't wearing the tightest clothes or has a terrible hair day (welcome to my life) don't make fun of her. Compliment her character. Laugh with her. Let her show her beauty through her interests, passions, and intelligence. I share this quote, not with a demeanor of feminazi power, but in acknowledging that a woman's job isn't to be pretty. Thank you Diana for living and speaking outside the box.

XOXO,

Jennica

268:365

Dress by Mossimo (modified by moi), lace jacket by Eyeshadow, wedges by Guess.

When I bought this dress a long time ago (on clearance at Target of course), I thought it was cute.  I wore it a few times and then I was annoyed at how cookie-cutter it was - very straight and proper. So what did I do? I created draping by stitching up each side of the dress at different points to create an asymmetrical vibe. Nothin' a little needle and thread can't handle ;). Voila! New dress.

in other news...

XOXO,

Jennica

267:365

Necklace from T.J.MAXX, belt from Target, peplum by Mossimo, jeans by Citizens of Humanity.

It's a big day for Oregon. If you haven't heard, same-sex marriage is legal in Oregon now! I am an advocate for this because I believe that I can't decide for other people who they should love. I'm an advocate for this because #loveislove. I'm an advocate for this because I have family and friends who have found their soul mates and I myself can learn from their relationships. I'm an advocate for this because I believe there is black and white, and I also believe that because black and white exists, so does gray.

Today I celebrate those who have been forced to suppress their outward expression of love but can now boast it. And I celebrate our nation stretching just a little bit further towards equality.

Congrats Oregon!

Jennica

266:365

Tee by J.Crew, cords by Paige, sandals by Ugg Australia.

My disclaimer today is that I picked out my outfit and took the pics prior to the torrential downpour... On the topic of trends, I've noticed a lot of women wearing the large watches accompanied by chunky bracelets.  I'm LOVING that look! I'm going to have to experiment with what I have to see if I can create that same look. On the right is an example of the look I'll be shooting for.  I love how this large watch face is complimented by two feminine bracelets, avoiding the potential masculine look, and no one wants that! Unless you're a guy that is ;). If you're wanting to try out this style but don't want to spend an arm and a leg, I would recommend your local Target store.  Make sure you check out the clearance section first! Forever 21 and Francescas are also great options.

Enjoy your day of rest!

Jennica

265:365

Tank by H.I.P., shorts by See Through Soul, flats by BCBG.

So exciting that I only have 100 more days! I have to say, I'm really glad I'm following through with this challenge, but it's called a challenge for a reason...So here's to being motivated in my last 100 days and I continue to grow, learn and change.  Thanks for being on the journey with me!

xoxo,

Jennica

264:365

Poncho by Nike, jeans by Vince, heels by Nine West.

Excited for the weekend and time to lay low and enjoy a low-key couple of days. I hope you can rejuvenate and soak up some vitamin D while you're at it.  Nice job getting through another work week! For all you teachers out there ~ 16 and 1/2 student contact days and counting! Woop woop!

xoxo,

Jennica

263:365

Dress by Soprano, jacket by Just Ginger, flats by Aldo.

I love color block!! I especially love bright colors, even though I don't wear them very often. I threw on this blazer to spiff the dress up a little and cover up the spaghetti straps. A light sweater would do the trick too. I hope you were all able to get out and enjoy this beautiful day!

Ciao!

Jennica

262:365

Romper by Mimi Chica, sweater by Shokay, sandals by Jessica Simpson.

This sweater from Shokay can actually be worn as a scarf or a shawl as well! Demonstration to come on a later date, but it's perfect for ten months out of the year here in Oregon!! Check out the link above for their products and their story.

XOXO,

Jennica

261:365

Dress by Veronica M, sweater by BCBG Maxazria, gladiator sandals by ??.

This is one of my favorite dresses and I was honestly scheming before putting it on to make sure I wouldn't be wasting a 'wear' today.  I would seriously like to live in this dress. Its low waist, soft cotton, and flowy skirt make the day quite pleasant. I'm not always a big fan of crazy prints, but this one sold me! Wear a dress similar to this one for a backyard barbecue, Sunday church, or happy hour with the girls! It's fits the bill for many occasions!

XOXO,

Jennica

260:365

Tee by Xhileration, scarf refashioned from dress material, skirt by Element, kicks by Nike.

Not sure how I feel about this outfit, but it happened. Once I was out the door and off to work, there was no going back. I saw Beyonce wearing Sky-Hi-esque shoes with a skirt like this but let's be real - I'm no Beyonce...

Today is a day where I found myself reverting back to my previous habits of basically wanting everything in the store!  I had an opportunity to go to the Nike Employee Store with family and it was super hard to not fill a shopping cart full to the brim with everything from kicks to full blown work out outfits!! But nonetheless, my card stayed in my wallet and I walked out no harm done.

This was a good reminder to keep it simple and have a plan - my plan being no shopping! Ugh! :)

XOXO,

Jennica

259:365

Hat by Aldo, sweater by Hurley, jeans by Rich & Skinny, booties from Italy.

Mothers must be thanked. They deserve to have at least one day dedicated to them, if not nine or ten. Their work, their dedication, their endless commitment seeing to it that their children become successful adults starting from mere footsteps and bottle-feeds is truly impressive. Their sensitivity to their emotional daughters and - at times - tolerance of "let's hope they don't kill themselves doing stupid things" sons leaves me in awe. Mothers don't quit. Mothers put their families first before themselves. Mothers don't take credit though they deserve it. Mothers know things about their children that even their children don't know about themselves. Mothers fight for truth, integrity, honesty, and their children establishing self-worth.  Mothers put up with their children in middle school - nuf said. Mothers go to every performance, competition, or game - home or away. Mothers teach their children how to cook. Mothers are compassionate whenever there's a bad day. Mothers are a child's best advocate and a constructive critic. Mothers help keep their children rooted but also give them wings.

Thank you Mom for all you are to me.  Thank you for your endless dedication, your sacrificial love, for modeling strength, integrity, dedication, compassion, sensitivity, and healthy communication. You are an amazing woman and I owe so much to you for raising me and being my number one fan!  I love you so much and everything above is a direct description of who you have been as a mother to me. If I can be anywhere near as outstanding of a mother as you have been, I will consider it a success. I love you!!

Jump shot in front of Car Henge - in the middle of Nebraska (our roots)

My wings are a work in progress - I just have to keep watchin' my Mama.

Jennica

258:365

Blouse by Wilster, jeans by Seven For All Mankind, booties from Italy.

Needing some motivation for working out and here is little quote from good ol' Nike (created using the Word Swag app).  The more we put it off the further behind we get.  Make working out a priority!  Your body doesn't deserve to be on the 'someday' burner.

Sweat it out!

Jennica

257:365

Sweater by Wearing Your Heart on Your Sleeve, top by Four Squares (??), jeans by Joes Jeans, booties from Italy.

There are three things that solve all problems; duck tape, rock paper scissors and wearing a fidora. Today I decided to use my problem solving skills.  It worked all day long.

Happy Friday.

Jennica

256:365

Jeans by Citizens of Humanity, plaid shirt by Mel and Mo, booties by Vince Camuto.

In honor of Throw Back Thursday, and my brother, sister-in-law and nephew being back in the states (woot woot!!!!), I thought I would share a way-back-play-back photo of my bro and I all dolled up (and me and my five-head...).  I'm pretty sure I was about three years old and he was about six. :)

As far as my outfit, when I envisioned it, I was thinking 70's style with the high waist, plaid, and a little bit of flare, but it definitely ended up being a country look!  I got that comment from multiple people, ha! But if I were really going for country and it was the weekend, I would definitely tie it in the front for funsies.

XOXO,

Jennica

PS-This was my first #tbt for the record!

255:365

Top by Bershka, belt by B.P., jeans by Seven For All Mankind, heels by Guess.

Lately, I've caught myself from saying, "I didn't have time for that," because that is communicating that I don't have control over how I allocate my time.  Instead, I am working on using the words, "I didn't make time for that." This forces me to take ownership of my time instead of being a victim of my time.

No excuses.

Jennica

254:365

Sweater by XOXO, blouse by Miley Cyrus Max Azria, skirt by AG, heels by Kelly & Katie.

I represented my Blazers colors at work today, though it didn't really help...What a rough start to Round 2 of playoffs!!  It was pretty painful to watch and I'm pretty sure there was a lid on our basket the whole time, but I still have faith in the Blazers! Batum told the team that they had to approach the rest of the games "pissed off!" Sounds good to me!!  

People always compete better when they're pissed off.  I mean, look at Dr. Bruce Banner in The Incredible Hulk for example (I don't know if "compete" is the best descriptor of his shenanigans). When he's angry, I would hate to be one of the army men attempting to catch Edward Norton's character, Bruce, A.K.A THE HULK! If I were them, I would be running like H-E-double-hockey-stick fo' life - all skills instantly thrown out the window, nun chuck skills, throwing star skills, no bueno anymore.  I would wet myself.

Spurs, prepare to run like H-E-double-hockey-stick from Batum and the rest of his pissed off possy.

#ripcityforlife

Jennica

253:365

Dress by Necessary Objects, heels by Lulu Townsend.

Happy Cinco De Mayo!! You may think I seem a little dressy, but I have an excuse, I swear. I was invited to a Young Life auction (obviously not the high bidder!!) and again - just like the wedding this weekend - had about 5 outfits in mind and couldn't decide what to wear #girlproblems. Of course, when in doubt, wear black. I also wasn't sure how dressy my fellow attendees would be and again, when in doubt, it's better to be overdressed than underdressed. So I ended up busting out this get-up for the occasion.

AND super random but I'm super stoked to hear that Gwen Stafani and Pharrell are going to be on The Voice next season - woohoo!

Adios Bonita Muchachas!

Jennica

252:365

Jacket by Levis, tank by Alternative, linen pants by Krisa, flip flops by Rainbow.

All I have to say to you today...

XO,

Jennica

251:365

Jacket by Levis, tank by Mossimo, skirt by BCBG, heels by Cole Haan.

We had an opportunity to go to a wedding of one of DJ's high school friends, with the ceremony in the middle of a blossoming apple orchard, and looking up on a beautiful, majestic hillside. I knew it was a little more low key, so I went with the classic black and then a denim jacket to tone it down a bit. Other than DJ having to carry me part of the way back to the car due to a steep dirt/grass hill and me in my heels...my outfit ended up fitting right in.

My advice when going to a wedding of people you don't know? Wear black because it's classy and you won't be over or underdressed.  Obviously you can spice it up with a little color, but you get the idea. :)

XOXO,

Jennica

250:365

Hat by Hurley, shirt by Nike, skirt is vintage 80's..., shoes by TOMS.

Can I get a WHAT WHAT!!??  What a stellar game/performance by the Blazers.  I knew they would pull through!! I just wanted to watch the #lillardtime moment over and over after the game!! #RIPCITY!!!

Jennica

249:365

Dress by Tabitha, heels by Cole Haan.

Sometimes we dwell on not knowing what's ahead. Guilty as charged. But maybe we just need to enjoy the present and instead be curious about what lies ahead.

XOXO,

Jennica

248:365

Sweater by Kersh, dress by 

On one of the hottest days this year so far, I couldn't help but wear my flowing-colorblock maxi! Now if only I were able to be outside more to enjoy it!

Recently I was down the deep rabbit hole of Pinterest and decided to search Victoria Beckham for some fashionspiration. First of all, can I please have her wardrobe!!!  Second of all, I noticed that she really doesn't wear jewelry...I was surprised by this since I'm sure she doesn't tighten the purse strings too often - thus being able to afford all sorts of fabulousness. But then again, that means that she can buy legit high-fashion clothes that don't need jewelry to accessorize. Learning from Victoria, sometimes less is more. 

XOXO,  

Jennica