Belated Birthday

So the 4 year anniversary of this blog's beginning slipped by me unnoticed earlier this month, while I was in the whirlwind of everyday life. I've been struggling a lot lately to keep up with that whirlwind, but I didn't want the month to pass without acknowledging how special it is to have a blog that's not just a baby anymore, and thanking you all for the encouragement and support over the years.

I have been especially surprised and cheered to see the number of subscribers continue to slowly but steadily grow, and find that you are all still leaving comments, and cheering me on. It's nice to know that you care, especially since for the past year or so I have veered away from the initial fashion-focus, posted irregularly, and been unable to put the time and energy into blogging that I have in the past.

If you've been following from the beginning; for years, a few months, or maybe just weeks or days, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I'm not sure where the blog will go from here, or what will happen next, but I'm glad that you are along for the ride.

In all honesty, I feel that I am at a crossroads. The past six months have been a bit of a roller-coaster (maybe I'll share more about that some time) and I've reached a point where I finally see the desperate need to slow down, evaluate, and breathe. Keeping healthy, getting the basic things of life accomplished, and trying to simplify and iron out my goals for the rest of this year is harder than I ever thought it could be.

All of this to say that I'm not sure what part the blog is going to play in what's to come, but I am so thankful for the part it has played thus far. And for all of you who have been a part of it.

I hope you have a wonderful rest of the month, whether it's your birthday or not. And I also hope it's not pouring buckets of rain wherever you are, although it's rather lovely. ;) God bless.

xoxo
Amanda

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Easter Eyes

For Easter Sunday, I wanted to wear something keeping with the pastel color scheme of the holiday, without being too traditional and Easter dress-y. I paired a simple knit shirt with a striped skirt, complete with pleats, oversized buttons, and pockets. I also pulled out my "Buckingham Palace" satin heels that I bought on my trip to London in 09. They've appeared twice on the blog before (here and here) but this was the first time I've worn them out. And while they were bearable, they are definitely a bit too small. My feet hurt when I look at these photos.

I also decided to wear my new glasses, which I just got a a few weeks ago. I wore glasses from when I was eight up until I was sixteen, but it's been contacts ever since. So now people who have known me for years are marveling at how different I look and asking me if I can see so much better now, which is kind of funny. I plan on alternating the glasses with my contacts, both to save some money on the latter, and to add some variety to my look. It's nice that glasses are an accessory nowadays, and not just a dorky necessity. ;)

What I'm Wearing:

• Shirt by SO wear it declare it - hand-me-down
• Skirt by MERONA - hand-me-down
• Shoes by laceys - from BULLFROGS in Greenwich, London
• Glasses by SUCCESS:XPL in "Grape"
• Earrings and Tights - unmarked

Tights are not something I'd usually wear with these open-toed shoes, but the chilly weather made it necessary. Fortunately, I had this neat pair on hand, with a kind of interesting design. I was also planning on wearing a headband as my "Easter Bonnet" piece, but with the glasses and earrings it was a bit overkill. My sister Lydia even convinced me not to wear any additional jewelry, but to keep things simple. I think it was good advice.

What did you wear on Easter Sunday? Please leave a link to your blog post and photos in the comments... I'd love to see! :)

Have a beautiful week!

-Amanda

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Easter Pretties and Ideas

Tomorrow is a very special holiday and, in celebration, I thought I'd share some random Easter-ish things I've found in my internet travels. Hopefully you'll get some ideas and be inspired! (Be sure to click each photo for a link to the source, which has even more pretties!)

Easter Sunday requires special thought being put into your fashion ensemble. Whether it's a brand new dress, an unusual pairing of separates, or reviving a favorite look... make it special. Soft, feminine shades - or floral prints - are perfect for springtime and very appropriate, but don't be limited by them. Be creative! 

 

Ooo... pastels! I have a hard time pulling them off, but when you find the right shade, it can be really yummy. The pink easter dress above is so very pretty, and who wouldn't want a some beautifully colored creamers like these?

 

As well as pulling out your pastel dishes for this holiday, be creative with your centerpieces! Using eggshells as vases or tea light holders? Brilliant.

Your food can fit the color scheme as well. Maybe try a French Macaroon recipe using your favorite colors, or bake this delicious looking Italian Easter Bread. Obviously, the possibilities are endless.

Wear an "Easter Bonnet" tomorrow. Seriously. Hats and fascinators have become very popular over the past year (thank you Kate, Pippa, Eugenie and Beatrice! ;) and are available in so many different styles. There is something for everyone! (Even a decorated headband will add something unique to your holiday look.)

  

Some pretty jewelry is also a great way to dress up your ensemble. You could go with something dainty and vintage-inspired, our pull out your favorite bird's nest jewelry (love this trend!).

Unlike last year, I didn't do anything unique when it came to dyeing Easter eggs (they are so pretty on their own that they don't really need enhancement). But there are plenty of gorgeous ideas out there, including this very, very sweet one, using blown eggs and a secret message. Be sure to look at all the photos, it's really charming.

Don't forget the reason why we celebrate tomorrow. He is risen.

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What are your Easter plans? Any interesting recipes, crafts or fashion looks in the works? I plan on shooting some photos of my outfit tomorrow, if I have time... please share a link to yours!

God bless, and have a lovely weekend!

-Amanda

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