Guest Post: Jessica from The Newly

Hi there, readers! My name is Jessica and I blog over at The Newly. You can find me there daily, chronicling my life as wife to a medical resident and new mother to two.

Sara and I have been blog friends for a while now. Her sweet daughter, Harper, and my son Caleb, are only a couple of weeks apart, so Sara and I connected on our new motherhood journey together. I remember emailing back and forth with her in the weeks leading up to our childrens' births, with questions and concerns we both had about this unknown chapter we were about to embark on. And we've been friends ever since! She's been a great source of information for me now, as having a little girl is uncharted territory for me - but something that Sara is obviously very familiar with. I only wish we lived a bit closer together, as I know we'd enjoy chatting and hanging out on the regular - especially on Sara's adorable back porch, which she recently renovated!

Anyways, Sara asked me to pop by today and guest post while she and her sweet family enjoy some much needed vacation time, and I was happy to oblige. Today, we're talking style staples. As a stay at home mom, my style staples have changed a bit from the days in which I commuted to an office. But there are still a few things that I think every woman should have in her closet, whether she's a stay at home mama, a mama who works outside the home, or a woman with no children at all. 

A Timeless Button-Up

A classic button-up will stand the test of time, and can be dressed up and dressed down, depending on the occasion. I am a big fan of chambray button ups, and have both a light version, as well as a darker one. I love this popover version as well - which is light enough to pair with jeans, but would also look cute with anything from leggings to shorts to skirts. Love.

Classic Black Heels

Whether you work in an office or stay at home and spend your days covered in Cheerios, a la yours truly, there will come a time in which a classic black heel will be required. Make sure you have one for when that day arrives. They pair well with everything from boyfriend dreams to shifts and are a definite staple item.

Boyfriend Jeans

I debated on whether to include skinny jeans or boyfriend jeans in this list of style staples. But, to be honest, skinnies just aren't for everyone. Boyfriend jeans? Well, they are. Anyone can throw on a pair of this comfy fitting style and look cute. They can be dressed up with wedges (these being my favorite) or paired with flip flops for some casual errand running on a hot day. Bonus: This pair is under $60 right now!

A Black Tote

If you don't already have a black bag, jump on this bag now. It's roomy, stylish, and best of all? Reversible. So you can use the black side, and when the whim strikes, flip it inside out for the cognac color. I have this bag in the blush pink/taupe version, and highly recommend it. For the price, you can't go wrong!

A Daily Bauble(s)

Whether it be a necklace (I have one with both of my children's initials on it from this shop), a ring, or a pair of earrings that you wear daily, every woman should have a 'go to' that they can throw on to finish their look no matter what's on the agenda for the day. I love these simple gold earrings, and think they would be a great addition to any jewelry box. Particularly mine, since I am lacking in everyday earrings right now!

An "LBD" (Little Black Dress)

Every woman needs a little black dress in her closet - a versatile option to throw on for everything from a high school graduation to an office cocktail party. I recently purchased a dress very similar to this one, and plan to wear it to a friends' wedding in just a couple of weeks.

A Nude (Metallic) Shoe

A nude shoe is something that can be paired with anything, while also being highly flattering - nude having the effect of lengthening the legs. A nude heel, like this one, can be dressy enough for a ball gown, or can be paired with jeans and a tank top for a date night. I noted that metallic could also be considered a neutral in this particular case. Specifically, gold. I myself am on the hunt for a gold sandal to have on hand for occasions, such as the wedding mentioned above, when a black shoe would be a bit boring. If you know of a cute gold sandal, be sure to let me know!

There are several other items I'd consider to be closet staples, but I thought this was a good start for today. Anything obvious that I am missing? A couple of items on this list are things that I need to update/add to my own closet, and will be working on that in the near future. As a grown woman, it's important to always have the staples intact. Otherwise, it's hard to build a complete wardrobe!

Be sure to stop by and visit me over on my blog if you're interested to hear a bit more of my ramblings on a daily basis!:)

Guest Post: Christina of The New Mrs.

Hi, Momentary Moments in the Holt Household readers - I'm Christina and I'm stopping by from The New Mrs.  I'm a recent newlywed, mama to the cutest little puppy (in my opinion) and enjoying this adventure I call life with my husband, Derek.

In addition to some recipes, fashion and marriage topics, you can frequently find me talking on my blog about our travel adventures.  I love everything about travel - From researching the destination and planning the trip to deciding what to pack as well as of course actually enjoying the trip.

With Sara at the beach it has me starting to think about my own upcoming vacation which is part beach/pool/relax and part sightsee/adventure.  I'll be sharing some more of my packing favorites including accessories, essentials and what's in my beach bag next week on my blog so be sure to pop over and check it out.

Enjoying some sun during her summer vacation at the beach is probably what Sara is doing right now, so I thought this could be the perfect chance to share my summer vacation essentials and focus on some beach necessities…




My Top Ten Summer Beach Trip Essentials:

Beach Hat:  Not only does it serve a purpose of blocking sun from your face but it's also the perfect fashion accessory to add to your beach look when you hit the sand.

Cross Body Bag:  When heading out for a casual dinner on or near the beach it's nice to have your hands free and just throw your essentials into a small side bag.

Gym Shorts: It's not all glamour - whether a morning bike ride or a late afternoon walk on the beach or even just lounging around the house/hotel - it's a good idea to have some gym shorts on hand.

Camera: Don't you want to remember the fun little moments of the trip, gorgeous sunsets and scenery that is surrounding you.

Sunscreen: Keeping your skin safe - Need I say more?

Cute Suits: While frolicking in the ocean, sitting in your beach chair or taking a stroll along the waters edge, a cute suit can brighten up your adventures on the trip.

Flip Flops:  The ultimate summer shoe.  My favorite part is how versatile a flip flop is - perfect for the beach, afternoon shopping or a night out.  One neutral pair and you're good to go!

Sunglasses:  Another need I say more type essential.

Straw Totes: This is getting a little picky, I know, but I love a beach bag that's not too big/not too small depending on the day.  If I'm going to be out on the beach or on a boat for an entire day then I might pack up my very large Hayden Reis tote.  If it's just a couple hours on the beach and I need to throw in sunscreen, a drink and some ice cream money, then a smaller straw tote will work perfectly!

Make Up Bag: If it's going to be a full day adventure or if the day is going to transition into night then it might be nice to have some makeup remover wipes (which also work perfectly to just refresh your face) as well as some mascara and lip gloss on hand.

And my bonus new favorite - Speakers.   My husband get a speaker for Christmas and we can't leave without it - it's little and doesn't take up a lot of space in the bag.


Thanks again, Sara for having me! I hope your having the best time on your beach getaway and can't wait to hear all about it.

Guest Post: Morgan of How 2 Wear It

Express Barcelona cami // TJ Maxx lace shorts // Target tennis shoes ((sold out)) // TJ Maxx chambray shirt // Margaret Elizabeth stone cuff // Kendra Scott druzy bracelet // Baublebar cape town tassel set // Loft sunglasses // GiGi New York tote ((the color of mine is on sale!))

Hey y'all! I'm Morgan from How 2 Wear It ((www.how2wearit.com))! First off I want to thank Sara for having me take over her blog for the day! Sara and I went to high school together and were very close!! Since then we have moved to different cities but have been able to stay in touch on a regular basis via blogging! Isn't that so cool?! I just wanted to tell y'all a little about my blog and hope that you go check it out sometime! My main objective is to provide the "everyday woman" with inspiration for everyday life events. Whether it be date night, work appropriate fashion, a day at the park ((like the photos above)), and everything in-between! I love finding good deals on great classics and the hottest trends to add to your closets. But I also like to provide tips on how to style what you already own! Because let's be honest, we're all on a budget here!

I hope you enjoyed this little introduction and I also hope to see you over at How 2 Wear It in the future!!

Thanks for stopping by!

[Shop the post]

Guest Post: Amanda from A Sweet Simple Southern Life

Well ladies, it's Wednesday which means our vacation is halfway over. It makes me sad. Sometimes I just wish I could make time stand still. But since that isn't possible I'm going to make the most of the rest of our vacay and soak it all in with my little family. Which leaves me with my guest poster. Today my lovely friend Amanda from A Sweet Simple Southern Life is sharing a post with you ladies. Amanda happens to be one of my few blog friends that I actually know in real life. Amanda and I grew up in the same town but attended different schools. But that's the thing about life in a small town... everyone knows everyone and your lives will inevitably cross :P Amanda got engaged recently and actually made news headlines for her proposal... which happened to take place during a hurricane. How cool is that story for the future grandkids?! 

................................................................................

Hey y'all!  I'm so excited to be guest posting while Sara is on vacation! I know they are having a great time with that precious family of hers. I can't wait to hear about it when they get back. 

I'm Amanda from A Sweet Simple Southern Life. Sara and I share a few things in common like the fact we are from the same hometown and we both teach! I typically blog about anything and everything that happens to be going on in my world at the moment. House hunting, wedding planning, things that make me happy and most of all.. random musings that I find entertaining throughout my day. 

Speaking of random... today I thought I would share some of my confessions with y'all.. Sit tight, don't judge (I'm normal, I promise!) 

I confess.. 

It took me about 10 minutes to find a picture for this post of me by myself. I have more pictures I know what to do with of me and friends or family but none of just me. Note to self-- ask someone to start snapping pics of me to share with my blog friends. 

I confess.. 

I spend all of Novemeber until May wishing for summer and dreaming of summer outfits. Then summer gets here and all I can think about it fall! Boots, pumpkin dip, scarves, I'm ready for it all. 

I confess..

That I'm having SO much fun planning my upcoming wedding! I'm loving every minute of making my dream day come to life. But.... I also confess I have completly let the stress of it get to me one or two times, resulting in tears and thoughts of elopment. 

I confess..

This little guy fills my heart with so much happiness. Can I have him, please?!

I confess.. 

I'm tempted to NEVER buy a house again. Going through the financing process has been an absolute nightmare. We hopefully should close on our house in exactly 3 weeks. I have no intentions of going through this process again any time soon! 

I confess.. 

I let six year olds peer pressure me. Y'all.. I try so hard to eat healthy. I just started this new nanny job though where all those sugery "kid foods" are oh so present and oh so tempting. Pudding, chicken nuggets, berry crunch cereal, oreos... It's all there and I can't stay away. 

Guest Post: Laurie from Disney 'n Diapers

Happy Tuesday ladies! I hope your week has started off wonderful. Today one of my newest blog friends, Laurie over at Disney 'n Diapers will be holding this blog of mine down. Laurie has an older son in middle school as well as a daughter that is close to Harper's age. Laurie is super creative and really values education in her children's lives. As a teacher and a mom she inspires me with how much time she invests in her kid's lives. I love following her Make-It Mondays, Water Wednesdays, Thinking Thursday and Field Trip Friday posts. One day I hope to be half as good a mom as you Laurie! Now I'll let Laurie get on with it and share some of her amazing activities with you ladies. I'll be trying these when I get home. You can bet your bottom dollar on that :P

.......................................................

Hey guys! I'm Laurie and I blog over at Disney 'n Diapers. I was so honored when Sara asked me if I would be interested in Guest Posting on her blog. Sara is the sweetest and our daughters are almost the same age! I've had a great time getting to know her and her family. 

Today I'm going to share with you one of our favorite sensory play activities! It's super simple and only requires 2 ingredients. That's right. TWO. For at least 10-15 minutes of play depending on the age and interest of your toddler;) I'm going to be honest and say I don't like to do things that require a ton of time and effort on my part, mostly because Savanna doesn't really stay interested in things for long periods of time! I'm sure as she gets older this will change..unless she's anything like me of course. 

The two ingredients you'll need? Cool Whip & Food Coloring. 

That's it. 

I used a muffin tin to make mixing up the cool whip with the food coloring a little easier, you could use baby food jars if you have those handy and I'm sure those would be fab also. I liked the muffin tin honestly because it gave Savanna easy access to the "paint".

I just taped some finger paint paper onto a pampers box so she had a good surface to work on. You could also use parchment paper which works good too.

I set up our paint space and then we didn't waste any time getting started!

Her big brother even joined in the fun..Pj's and all! (You try getting an 11 year old out of his jammies in the summer..)

She played for a little bit, until she realized that this particular paint was edible.

But our masterpiece at the end was pretty picasoish..

Don't ya think?!

It is now hanging in our "art gallery" in Savannas playroom. 

Some people might be concerned about the mixed messages with eating the paint, but we don't ever buy store bought paint our playdoh, I'm always finding new recipes to try to keep our play natural and clean. Not only is it better for my kids, but it's cheaper and inspires us to be creative. 

Hope you enjoyed! 

And feel free to stop over and share ways you have fun with your littles!! I'm kinda sorta obsessed with meeting other blogging Mommy's! :-D

Guest Post: Jessica from The Newly

Happy Monday ladies! I am currently soaking up the sun and hanging out in the sand with my little family at the beach. Jessica over at The Newly volunteered to take over my blog for today and I couldn't be happier. Jessica and I "met" when we were both pregnant with our precious babies and have bonded through our journey of motherhood.  If only we lived closer to each other I know we'd be "real" friends and our babies would have a blast together. After all, we have a lot in common...including our addiction to an ice cold Coca-Cola... which I need right about now so I better run! Hope you ladies had a great weekend! 

.....................................................................................................

Hi there, sweet readers! I'm Jessica, and I share a little bit of this and a little bit of that every day over on my blog, The Newly.

I've known sweet Sara for a while now through our blogs. We met while we were both pregnant, and in fact, my handsome little man, Caleb, was born just one week after Sara's little princess, Harper. It's been so fun to have a friend to navigate motherhood with since our kiddos are both hitting the same stages right around the same time. When Sara asked if I'd guest post for her while she and her precious family are away on a beach vacation, I didn't hesitate to say yes!

I thought I'd keep in theme with the idea of a beach vacation, so today I am sharing my makeup favorites for a beach trip. I don't know about you all, but when I'm at the beach, the last thing I want to worry about is a full face of makeup. So, I try to stick with just the basics. That way, that 'suntanned beach glow' can still shine through. Here's what I pack when we head for sand and sun.

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7

What type of makeup do you prefer when you're on vacation? Any go-to's that I should know about? Anything that will make this mama's makeup routine shorter - and my life easier - and I am all ears!