mama style...

I normally don't do fashion or outfit posts, but I got a shirt the other day and really loved it, so I thought I'd share.  There's a great second-hand shop near us, and I was able to get his great flannel shirt for $10.  It makes the cool weather feel so good, and wearing flannel makes fall feel that much closer.  You know when you wear an outfit that just works and makes you feel beautiful and great?  This was it for me.  I've worn this outfit maybe three times in the last week, I love it that much!

Being a mama can take a lot out of me...I am tired, overwhelmed sometimes, and paying attention and caring for a little one 99% of the time.   There are few moments that I truly have to myself, or feel like I am looking my best, only because I don't have a lot of time to "do myself up."  I am getting better at dealing with this, but I don't want to play the martyr either.  I am learning to cut out time wasters in my life, and making room for things that matter to me more, and not making excuses.  In my opinion, a mama needs to take some time for herself and make herself feel beautiful.  It's vital and necessary.

I was reading Bringing Up Bébé awhile ago, and a quote really stood out to me.

"She forgets about her baby, to think about herself.  She now takes a shower, gets dressed, puts on makeup, becomes beautiful for her own pleasure, that of her husband and of others.  Evening comes, and she prepares herself for the night, for love."

Let's be honest, the French make everything sound romantic and blissful.  But I really think there are some wise words in there.  Have you ever seen a mama that's obviously frazzled, tired, and grumpy?  I have...that was me yesterday!  Landon came home from work early, and told me to take a shower and get dressed up to go out for coffee.  I followed his advice, and it really made a huge difference.  My day was better, I was able to read my bible, read my favorite blogs, enjoy a nice drink, journal, read in peace, and feel beautiful and clean for a bit.

Now I am not saying that mamas should make sure they look hot and awesome every moment of every day...that's clearly not realistic or reasonable.  What I am saying is mamas should make time for themselves every once in awhile, to keep up morale.  Have your partner or a sitter watch your child for a couple hours once a week or twice a month, get dressed up and go out...but not for grocery shopping or errands.  Get coffee and read a book, window shop for things you like, check out an art gallery.

I really don't think mamas were meant to do everything on their own...props to those who can, but that's definitely not me.  There are things that keep me going every day - prayer, my husband, friends, and yes, looking good and feeling comfortable in my own skin.

Here's my fall mama style: casual, comfy, and easy.