New Year, New Goals - Same Me

I’m still in shock that it’s 2023! Where did the time go? Were we not just eating Thanksgiving dinner; that’s how it always goes. For the last few months, I’ve had time to think about what I want my life to look like in the new year. Last year was decent, but it wasn’t what I wanted it to be.

Sidenote: Isn’t it funny how we have our life all planned out, and God throws us a curveball or two? Yep, He got me together real quick.

2022 taught me PATIENCE and the art of waiting. If you know anything about me, I’m the type just to do it. My body and mental health wouldn’t allow me to react as I usually would, and I’m grateful. I could have found myself regretting a lot of decisions later had I gone with my first mind. 

For 2023, I’ve opted to take a different approach in how I’m approaching life. One of the most significant changes I implemented was planning time with my husband. Creating this dedicated time allowed us to discuss things we could be doing better as a family and what we would like our future to look like. 

Creating a family motto and scripture for the year was at the top of my list. As a blended family, there is an added layer of “stuff” you have to work through. It’s important to us that we find balance in our blending. 

Family First - simple but effective. We have been operating as a family for a few years now, but it has only sometimes been a united front. When you have multiple children in different homes, tension can be created, or things can be taken out of context. Thank goodness those days are (mostly) behind us now. Having a large blended family as we do, it has been crucial that we set an example for the children. We don’t expect them to be affectionate with one another, but we do require that they respect each other and nurture their relationships as they see fit. 

“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.” – Romans 12:9

This verse stuck out to me and spoke to our situation. In a world filled with chaos and evil, I want our family to know that we must hold on to the good, and that’s each other. It has taken me YEARS to understand the importance of family, spending time together, and creating memories. 

Personal Goals

I want to find a way to make fitness and self-care a habit. I realized that I had neglected myself severely, and that had to change. I don’t have a solid plan yet, BUT I have saved recipes and plan to start walking at least 2-3 days a week. 

Business Goals

I have a few things up my sleeve for the business this year. I plan to expand my engagement on all platforms. I want to build my community. I love each of you deeply, but I had to care for myself before finding a way to show up for you all. 

Get ready to see more blog posts and social media shares. I also plan to dabble in video content creation. This year is about trying new things and simply going after everything I want.

Overall, I’m excited about everything 2023 has in store for me!

Happy New Year - Hello 2023

Happy New Year 🎉

I can’t believe it’s a new year already - HELLO 2023! I am so grateful to have brought the new year in with family and friends. It was truly a blessing to be surrounded by so much love. I’m super late on getting this post out but I want to share my outfit inspo for New Years Eve.

I’m not one to go out and party while bringing in the new year, but I’m always down to find a great look. I called my girlfriend and said, I have an idea so let’s make it happen! Thanks, girl! 

Bring on the sparkles ✨

You can never go wrong with sequins! While sequins can be challenging to wear especially if it snags, the look will forever be classic. Instead of the traditional black, gold, or silver, I chose to do a bold hunter-green deep plunge jumpsuit, and my friend, Brittnay, went with a rose gold dress.

Similar jumpsuit, Option 2

Similar dress,   Option 2

Bring on the Hair

I’m all for the big hair! Give me curls and volume; however, you may need to use hair spray, especially if you’re going out. You want your hair to look great but also stay in place. Not a curly girl? Sleek hairstyles are timeless when paired with the right outfit and makeup. 

Always consider what your evening will look like. Are you heading out on the town or enjoying an intimate gathering at home? 


It’s time to pop some bottles 🍾

Is it really NYE if we aren’t popping bottles? 

I hope that you were able to bring in the new year safely. May 2023 bring you everything your heart desires.

Holiday Photo Ideas with Your Friends

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Can you believe that we’re less than two weeks away from Christmas? Crazy right? I love this time of year; cooler temps, comfort food, and connecting with friends and family are always a vibe!

One of the most important things I have been focused on lately is taking photos -  in the long run; you will want them! I don’t have a lot of pictures with my friends since we’ve gotten older because life and conflicting schedules just don’t allow it. But this year, I’ve wanted to be intentional about taking them, and I plan to start a photo series…stay tuned! 

If you’re considering taking holiday photos this year, I hope these are helpful! 

Christmas Tree Photos

Who doesn’t love a good Christmas Tree photo op? No matter if you’re in your home or find a decorated tree in your town - snag a quick photo!

Friendsmas Photos 

Are you having a holiday gathering? Be sure to grab a few candid photos.

Action Shots

I am obsessed with action shots and in-the-moment photos; they help tell a story. Some of my favorite pictures are of me walking and laughing.

Presents and Holiday Decor

Presents scream Christmas, and what better way than adding them to your shoot?

If you’re looking for holiday photoshoot inspiration, be on the lookout early next year! 

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas!

Date Night at Scarowinds 2022

My husband and I have made it our duty to do date nights more often. This month we decided to check out Carowinds' annual event called SCarowinds! I was very interested in attending this event, it had been on my radar for years but the timing was never right.

Fast forward, my husband loves all things scary, I, not so much. So I knew this would be the perfect outing for us outside of a traditional dinner and a movie. I had no idea what to expect but I did read up on a few things to help me prepare.

• There are several haunted houses to view.

• A “no boo” necklace is available to purchase if you don’t want to get scared.

• Actors/Workers are not allowed to touch you but they can speak to scare you.

• Most rides are open.

• Not recommended for children under 13 years of age.

I loved their themed food options, it helped to tie in the spooky vibe of the season! We enjoyed wings and fries - our fave! We also brought our season pass cup, perfect if you visit multiple times throughout the year. Well worth the price. 

I haven’t been to a haunted house since high school and all I remember was it was scary. I was so nervous but I loved their rule that no one could touch you. That was my fear of being grabbed and knowing that provided me with the peace I needed to enjoy the night. 

Silver Scream Studios: Condemned was our favorite haunted house! It was the right amount of scare and fun! I highly recommend hitting this one first. 

We also opted for the Fright and Fast Passes because we wanted to enjoy our time at the park without having to wait long. 

Pricing

Tickets start at $39.99 + tax

Fast passes $79.99 + tax

SCarowinds is open September 16 - October 30, 2022, please review their chaperone/visitor policy here.

If you decide to visit let me know! We had a blast and we plan to attend next year as well.