Aliexpress Haul

 I've been shopping Aliexpress for years and have found some really great finds!  I wanted to share my most recent haul, oh also everything is less than $3!!:

Designer bracelet: This bracelet was around $2 and I LOVE it!!  It is a perfect designer dupe and I have been enjoying layering it with other bracelets. 

Marble barrette: Barrettes are back in style and I thought I would try out the trend.  These pretty marble ones were less than $1 and perfect for dressing up your hair. 

Initial necklace: I love personalized jewelry.  This dainty initial necklace is perfect for wearing on its own or layering.  it was less than $2.

Tortoise barrette: If it comes in tortoise I'm pretty much sold!

Star barrette: Same goes for stars, how cute is this hair clip?

Pearl barrette: Pretty little pearls for dressing up your hair.

The only downside for Aliexpress is the shipping time, it can take up to a month to get your items.  Just know that before you order.

Have you shopped Aliexpress?  Let me know your favorite finds below!

Grocery Shopping from my Couch...YES!!

With work, going to the gym and everything else going on I don't always have time to go to the grocery store.  Instacart comes to the rescue!

 Guys this may be the greatest thing to happen to grocery shopping.  Seriously I can grocery shop from my couch and then they are magically brought to my house...it's awesome!

Sound to good to be true?? Here's how it works:

1. Shop your favorite local grocery stores
Shop from anywhere using your computer or your phone

2. Schedule a delivery
Have your groceries delivered in as little as an hour! You can also have them delivered later in the day or week.

3. Get groceries delivered to you!

You can also order and pick up your groceries in the store:

Shop online, choose a pickup time, then pick up your groceries at the store!

What are you waiting for, go ahead and order your groceries.  Use my code: ERICHARDSON2601E3 for $10 off your next order!! 

Instagram Roundup

Instagram Roundup coming at you!  This past week flew by, both of us very busy with work and general life.  We are getting ready for a wedding later in the month and enjoying the cooler weather. 

I picked up these three blouses on major clearance at Walmart and I'm in love!!  They are giving me major Free People vibes.  

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In case you missed it I talked about the mission behind my new favorite necklace, click here to read about it.

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One of my clearance finds in action.  I think this floral piece is going to be perfect for layering this fall!  I paired this one with my new favorite faux suede moto jacket from Peach!

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In case any of you were wondering yes I am still missing the fair...

We are finally getting some cooler weather and I can't wait to pull out these wedge boots from BearPaw!!

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That's a wrap for the recap, let me know what y'all have going on!

What I Have Been Reading

It's been a HOT minute since I have done a reading recap...

The Residence by Kate Andersen Brower: This book was such an interesting read.  It took a dive into the behind the scenes life at the White House.  I found it really informational and full of insight into the goings on in this house.  I loved getting the behind the scenes gossip and a look into how the house is run.  I also appreciated that both political parties were represented without much bias.

Every Breath by Nicholas Sparks: Jumping back on the Sparks train.  Yes this one was predictable but it was enjoyable and it had a good story.  The characters had depth and great stories, their connection was believable and I really enjoyed the story.  I always enjoy the North Carolina scenery, definitely want to stop by Kindred Spirits one day.

America's First Daughter by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie: This one was a little harder to get through at times but was interesting none the less.  I learned a lot about more about Thomas Jefferson's daughter and her life.  With cameos from important historical figures scattered throughout, if you are interested in history and life a romance thrown in this one is pretty good. 

Chasing Harry Winston by Lauren Weisberger: Eh, nothing to really write home about just a chick lit book without much substance.  The book follows three best friends and their journey to change their lives in a year.  Some of the characters were just a little annoying and the story was just ok.

My Last Duchess by Daisy Goodwin: This book follows Cora Cash and her title hungry mother who won't stop until her daughter is married and married well.  She ends up finding a Duke and the book follows her relationship with him trying to find happiness.  The book is pretty long and doesn't really have that much of a story, also the ending just sort of ends without wrapping things up.

So I definitely had a few misses this go-around.  I would love to know what you all have been reading lately.  Let me know down below!

Starfish Project: Jewelry with a Purpose

Jewelry that helps others speaks to my heart.  I recently came across the Starfish Project and their mission to help restore hope to exploited women in Asia.

Through life changing opportunities with holistic care programs and a social enterprise where women take on jobs they can be proud of.  They have employed over 130 women and have served thousands through community outreach services. 

The Meaning Behind the Name: The Starfish Parable

One day, an old man was walking along a beach that was littered with thousands of starfish that had been washed ashore by the high tide. As he walked he came upon a young boy who was eagerly throwing the starfish back into the ocean, one by one.

Puzzled, the man looked at the boy and asked what he was doing. Without looking up from his task, the boy simply replied, “I’m saving these starfish, Sir”.

The old man chuckled aloud, “Son, there are thousands of starfish and only one of you. What difference can you make?”

The boy picked up a starfish, gently tossed it into the water and turning to the man, said,

“I made a difference to that one!”

I picked out this beautiful initial necklace.  It is 14K gold and the perfect dainty everyday piece.  I have been wearing mine everyday on it's own and layered up. 

It came in the prettiest packaging and included a handwritten note from a women who is being helped by the Starfish Project.

It's not too soon to start thinking about Christmas presents, a jewelry piece from the Starfish Project would make a perfect gift.  Beautiful jewelry and a mission.

Instagram Roundup

 

These weeks are flying by, can you believe we are pretty much halfway through October?  Christmas will be here before we know it (seriously only 11 more weeks).   

Can you believe this was my first time watching Hocus Pocus all the way through??  It was alright, nothing to get crazy over (unpopular opinion I know).  Something to get crazy over are these slippers for sure.  They are the coziest things I have put on my feet!

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October is bittersweet, bringing with it a longing for my hometown county fair.  So many memories wrapped up in this place.  Check out my post here to read more. 

 

We are getting a good touch of fall weather here and I am living for it!  Bringing out all the sweaters, boots and jackets!  P.S this look is from Madison + Mallory.

Getting my use out of styling these pieces before it's too cold!  I'm still loving these graphic tees and combining looks.

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That's my week in a nutshell, hope you all have a great week!  Also if you aren't following me on instagram, check me out!

Friday Favorites

Getting back into the blogging game and that means sharing things I have been all about lately, these are really good this week (obviously I'm into them):

Monogram Initial Necklace: I love this dainty disc necklace with my initial.  Even better is the mission behind it.  Every purchase from the Starfish Project helps exploited women in Asia experience freedom, establish independence and develop careers. 

Moto Jacket: Yes it is still 80 degrees here so I can't really wear my fall favorites yet but cooler weather is coming soon I just know it!  This super soft faux suede moto jacket from Peach is my favorite new item for the season!  I love the olive color and can't wait to pair it with everything this fall!

Poldark Season 5: Ross and Demelza are back and I am LOVING it!!  The first episode from season 5 started last week and it was so good!!  This is the final season for the show so it is definitely bittersweet but I am enjoying it while it lasts.  If you haven't watched Poldark and you are a fan of Downton Abbey check it out!

BearPaw slippers: These just might be the fluffiest, coziest slippers I have ever put on my feet.  Not even kidding they are crazy plush.  I got them in the prettiest subtle gold and I know I will be wearing them ALL the time!  If you are looking for a pair of pair of cozy slippers, these are a winner. 

Here There and Back Again Blog: My sister started a blog and I may be slightly biased but y'all it's good!  She has always loved to write and with her college classes her skills have gotten even better.  She's really good at bringing out the emotions in her writing and making you feel what she is feeling.  She's just a great writer and story teller.  Check out her blog, she has been talking about her recent travels and things going on in her life.  New posts on Monday, give her a read!

That's a wrap for this weeks favorites, let me know what you have been loving lately down below!

How do you Fair? Dixie Classic Fair Memories

October is here and with it that ache that has become all too familiar.  Akin to homesickness for a place that is so familiar it feels like home.  To many it is just a county fair, a place for food, rides and fireworks; for me it will always be about friends, family and so many memories made.

I grew up raising and showing animals (pigs, sheep and beef cattle), the Dixie Classic Fair was always a favorite part of the show season.  As a child I loved riding the rides and eating all the cotton candy and candy apples I could get.  As I got a little older I found my favorite spot on the fairgrounds was not the midway but in the livestock barn.  The people were what really made the difference.  Many of them have been there my whole life and have watched me grow up.  The support and friendships made throughout my years of showing are some that I will always treasure.  Even though the livestock show brings a fair share of competition in that barn everyone works together and supports one another.

  I miss the early mornings before the sun was up, washing the cattle on the wash rack, late nights cleaning up, and taking a quick break eating lunch together on the showbox.  It was hard work but those times spent with my family are priceless memories that I will always hold onto.

I'm sure all of you have a similar spot that you love and miss, the Dixie Classic fair is mine.  It's where I grew up and the home of so many memories.

I have been attending the fair since before I was born, my first trip was in utero.

It's true what they say "Banners and ribbons will fade but the memories will last a lifetime."  Winning was nice but being able to share that with my family was even better.  I know my parents were proud of us each and every time we went in that ring, first place or last.  

Just looking at this picture I hear the whir of fans blowing, cattle mooing and I'm back in the barn. 

There's not a lot that compares to the feeling of walking into the ring and giving it your all.  Fellow showmen, enjoy your time it goes by so fast.

"It's sort of in your blood.  You don't think about the long hours or the money.  You do it because you love it." -Ross Haberfield

As I sit here eight hours away, I hold on and reminisce on the years spent and the memories made.  I can almost smell the scent of shavings, hear the announcer giving class results and feel that rush of walking into the ring.  

The fair will always hold a piece of my heart and I am forever grateful for the place it has had in my life. 

Instagram Roundup

Time for a long recap post, since I was MIA for a little while the instagram recap catchup is real.  Luckily my instagram game was slacking a little as well so you won't be totally bombarded with pictures (just a few).  Ok let's catch up:

Roll Tide!  My husband attends the University of Alabama so I have become a by-proxy Alabama fan.  I'm still yet to make it to a game but don't worry that will soon be rectified!

Playing around with fall inspired flat-lays since the weather outside has been in the upper 90's!  This moto jacket from Peach is one of my favorite new pieces for fall.  Same goes for these leopard shoes from Target!

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Tried out the new Pumpkin Cold Brew Cold Foam and it was delicious!!  Check out my post here for a full review.  Have you tried it yet?  Let me know what you think and also your go-to Starbucks order.  (I love hearing what people order)

Just give me ALL the pumpkin spice!  I made a really delicious pumpkin bread the other weekend and it will most definitely be on repeat this season!  Let me know your favorite pumpkin spice recipes below!

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Deciding to wear your fall clothes even though it is still in the 90's...
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Give me ALL the pumpkins!!  How crazy do you all get with fall decorations?  I went pretty simple this year.

Back at it with the flat-lays so I don't get a heatstroke in this weather.  How cute are these wedge boots from Bearpaw??  Can't wait till it is cool enough to wear them!

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I love the look of a layered graphic tee.  This West Virginia one is so cute and will be perfect under cardigans and jackets when it gets cooler.

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See that wasn't too bad, now you're pretty much caught up on what's going on (at least in my insta world).  Make sure you are following me on instagram.  I'm back to posts this week here on the blog as well so check back!

Walmart Fall Fashion Finds for Less Than $30

Alright I have been really slacking on my blog posts yet again.  Things have been busy and I'm out of the habit.  I did have to share these Walmart finds that I am obsessed with for fall!  Also all of these finds are less than $30!!

Thermal peplum top: For $13 this Free People dupe is a MUST-HAVE!!!  Perfectly flowy with a flattering peplum and cozy waffle knit.  I want every color!

Star Glitter Sneakers: These shoes are all over Instagram and for good reason.  They are a great Golden Goose dupe and are only $16!

Faux Suede Moto Jacket: A gorgeous moto jacket for $24?  Y'all you really can't beat that!  Looks like the BlankNYC version that everyone wanted during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale but for a fraction of the price.

Heeled Boots: These boots are so gorgeous for fall and look way more expensive than their $24.  Perfect for pairing with dresses, leggings or denim.

Leopard Dress: Leopard is a must have for fall and this leopard dress is the perfect way to incorporate it into your wardrobe.  This one would also be really cute with the moto jacket.  Looks like Nordstrom for $29.

Leopard Sneakers: Again you really can't go wrong with leopard, its a great neutral.  These sneakers have memory foam insoles so they are super comfy and the leopard trim is a trendy accent.  Also they are only $16!

Sherpa Vest: A cozy sherpa vest for only $10?!?  Y'all Walmart has got it for fall!  These give off Patagonia vibes for way less!

Wedge Boots: Another crazy good dupe for you.  These wedge boots look like a pair of Sorel wedge boots that are upwards of $150, these guys will only set you back $29.

Sherpa Pullover: These sherpa pullovers were a must have last year at Walmart and they brought them back in more colors!  They are only $19 and are crazy soft!  I pretty much live in my sherpa pullovers when it gets cold.  Trust me if you don't have one you NEED to grab this one!

So many good finds at Walmart this season, let me know what you manage to snag!