New Year…New Beginnings…All that glitters….

Hi there!  It’s been a while, hasn’t it?  I feel like I’ve been gone for a long time.  It’s crazy how quickly time flies by.  I hope you enjoyed all the wonderful holidays.  I have to be honest with you… because, well, I feel like I blog for a reason and part of my blogging consists of me being real and honest with you all–even with some of the bad stuff sometimes.  I never thought I would be the person to actually wish the holidays away– but this year I was that person.  Working retail makes it really difficult to enjoy the holidays.  There is so much hustle and bustle this time of year anyway- seeing it on the daily basis can add even more stress.  That was a minor, though–over Thanksgiving we lost my husband’s dear, sweet grandma.  It was very difficult- I loved her so much and I know what she meant to all of my in-laws.  During that time- my mom had been in and out of the hospital for various health reasons.  We received a phone call that she was in ICU two weeks prior to Christmas.  It was one of those times where I just had a bad feeling.  I don’t get them often, but usually when I do- something is not right.  After a few weeks of up and downs, hopes and fears, my mother passed away the Sunday after Christmas.  We actually spent our Christmas traveling and in the hospital to be with my mother.  This is the reason for my blogcation last week.  I really needed some time to cope with everything that was going on.  To be honest- I could use another week!  I’m still pretty exhausted and at the same time I’m trying to keep myself as busy as I can to occupy my mind.  

Soooo it’s a new year— hello 2015.  I’m so excited to see what you will bring me- I’m jumping in with a positive attitude and relishing the good memories I had with my mom.  I’ve learned so much about her looking through old pictures and realizing how much I am actually like my mom.  Some cases this is a great thing- other traits not always so great.  Hey! Nobody’s perfect! Anyway, this year is all about new beginnings, cherishing life, being thankful, and not letting stress get the best of me. 

Cheers to 2015–and to my mom!   

   

Jacket: Forever 21 | Shirt: H&M Loooove this Forever 21 tee| Jeans: Zara sold out  (similar) | Shoes: Valentino (similar at Sole Society)| Bag: H&M (similar) | Ring: Haute Look (similar at Bauble Bar) | Necklace: Forever 21 | Belt: Target 

Photos by Samantha May