I admit this with a heavy heart, but summer is over for the most part. Fall is here. Brisk mornings. Often chilly and windy days. Although I love fall fashion and all the layers, it's always bittersweet to say goodbye to summer. We have officially returned to school and so far so good, but for the kids its only been a couple of days. Usually I would have my fall magazines, and be browsing the shops both in person and online but this year I am really struggling to be enthused about buying anything. I am not really sure why the funk, but it's not so bad for the pocket book. Hahaha. At this moment I am all about using the pieces in my closet and giving them lots of spotlight. A simple dark floral top, paired with some jeans or tucked into a pencil skirt, is the perfect way to transition from our carefree summers to a more structured fall. I love a moody floral print for a top, dress or a blazer.
I wore this outfit when we decided to make a Dairy Queen visit with the kids a few weeks ago. You guys, BLIZZARDS are delicious!!!!! Seriously, it's been years and I had totally forgotten that they were that good. The DQ is across the street from the University and we decided to take a stroll through the deserted grounds. It's sad to see it so quite, while I remember the energy and vibes of young people milling around the grounds, especially as we begin a new school year. Our University grounds are gorgeous and walking them is always a treat. As we were walking my girls were both asking so many questions about the different buildings, the process for getting into University, where people live, how many classes you take, how long you go, etc. My oldest is 13 and it was really neat to hear her saying things like "When I come here"and "This is going to be my building." That kind of talk tells me that she sees herself as a university graduate. That she feels confident in herself as a learner. That she has high hopes and expectations of herself. No, we don't need them to go to university. But I do want them to know that there are many options available to them. That they have possibilities and that we will do our best to support them. Also, like most parents I do want to know that they will be able to support themselves and choose paths that hopefully they are always passionate about, but that we also have to work hard to achieve our goals. My 13 year old has her sights set on veterinarian school. She would love to work specifically with horses, but is interested in all the animals from small/pet like, to large farm animals. Not sure where this will all go, but I am happy that she is having a positive dialogue about her future.
My youngest, was in awe of all the buildings and even though she doesn't have a clear goal at this time, I mean she is only 10 LOL, she knows that this is a possibility. I think of so many children that don't know that this is an option, and even more importantly that it doesn't feel like an option. That go through high school not having that even on a choice board. So I write this because I am grateful that my girls do. I am grateful that we will be able to support them, no necessarily pay for their education fully, but still support them emotionally and financially in some ways. I am grateful that these are the stories they tell themselves.









Here are my top fall floral picks for you!
What are your weekend plans?