Hey everyone!! Oh my, it’s been a hot minute since I’ve blogged. And boy, have I missed it! Well, life threw me some curve balls (really great ones) and I haven’t been able to find… More
Let Them Make a Mess
Happy Saturday, y’all! This was a another busy week, and I didn’t get my post up yesterday. But, I did a little event introducing my mini-boutique — it was so fun! Thanks again to everyone that came out!
I wanted to talk about something I have encountered as a mom. What I want to talk about isn’t revolutionary. It’s not going to make in the pages of Parenting Magazine or mentioned on the Today Show.
I just want to talk about kids making a mess.
Why? It’s just part of having kids, right? We all deal with cleaning the house, laundry, and, picking up toys. I know sometimes I have bribed (yes, bribed. You have too, right?) my son to clean the playroom. I’ve said something like, “If you clean up the playroom, we can go outside.” Or, “If the playroom is cleaned up, we can have a friend over.”
As much as we have to clean, it’s easy to resent this daily chore. Anybody feel like this? Trying to maintain a house, especially when the kids aren’t cooperating (or following chore rules) can create a lot of frustrating.
That’s why this play session was a lot different.
The other day I was wanting to snap a pic of my kiddos playing. In order for me to do this in my house, I have to move my kitchen table. I know, crazy! It’s the only way I can get natural light with a white background, ha! But, I wasn’t planning on my little picture turning into something that inspired me.
While the kiddos were in the kitchen, I ran into the playroom and grabbed a puzzle and a bag pom poms. My daughter is obsessed with pom poms!
After making back into the kitchen and giving them their goods, playtime quickly began. At first, there were only a few pom poms puzzle pieces on the floor, but that soon changed. They ended up All. Over. The. Floor. As the mess ensued, I could feel my anxiety rise, but I also noticed something else. My daughter was so clam and happy. She teetered around picking up and dumping pom poms. My son, played with his puzzle and then (queitly) joined in with his sister. What did I do? I watched. I played on my stomach and admired their sweetness. I snapped a many pics as I could. I wasn’t going to miss this little moment. This memory will stick me. A simple memory of I time that I put my Mom duties on pause and let them just play.
I put aside all of the chores, to-do’s, and rules. I just watched them play.
I don’t have a spick and span hosue, but I like to keep things picked up. I’m also not super super hard on my kiddos. But, I do quick a little worked up when my house gets messy. Why? My anxiety! I can control what chores get done. I can control the mess. Yeah, I’ll stop there. Another day, another post, ha!
Next time the kids want to make a mess, let them. It can always be picked up. I’m glad I let them make a mess in my kitchen. I second guessed myself, but I’m happy I flipped my “mom” switch off and just watched them play. It was exhilarating and motivating. Kinda like, “You got this girl!”
Oh, if I could bottle that moment!
Do you recall a favorite Mom moment? Please share below! I would love to hear you story.
Have a fab weekend, y’all! Hugs to all of you mommas out there!
❤︎ ❤︎ ❤︎
XO
Transitioning Your Dress for Fall
November 8, 2016
Hi y’all! How’s your day been? I hope you it’s been good one. Well, sorry for being m.i.a. lately. We have been super busy around the here. It’s that time of year, isn’t it? I love it!
It’s time for another Tip Tuesday! Today, I’m talking about transitioning your favorite dress for cooler weather. This has been something that we all deal with, right ladies? I have had asked and been asked ways to transitions items for cooler weather, especially when it’s that “in between” time of the year. Here is Texas, it takes it a while to get down right cold.
Here, I’m wearing a simple, yet elegant dress from Laudem Deo. This dress is handmade of ethically sourced materials by women who face unemployment in South Africa.
What a powerful brand! I’m honored to share this beautiful dress. Not only does Laudem Deo create beautiful garments, as a company they care deeply about who they employ and their personal lives.
“We do this by focusing on all the people who make up our very intricate process, by considering who they are, what they’ve been through and caring deeply about the kind of lives they and their families lead in a country we love and will continue to support.” ~ Laudem Deo
Do you have a simple maxi in your closet? Maybe something you have worn a million times, and feel that it has become boring.
Well, let me tell you how you can transform what you already have in your closet.
Accessories can make or break an outfit. They can also carry you look into another season. Here, I switched up my footwear and accessories to transform a classic wrap dress.
First, I kept things classic (and warmer-weather appropriate) with lace-up heels and a clutch.
Next, I added a classic black wrap and booties.
Last, I added faux fur stole for the ultimate coziness!
Here are a few other ways to change up your favorite dress
A denim jacket and scarf
A leather bomber and bold earrings
A statement necklace and a wrap
Bold earrings and a cropped jacket
An embellished coat or jacket and simple earrings
And finally a bold lip, statement earrings, a wrap, and booties.
The total glam look! A bold lip always counts as an accessory.
I hope you found this post helpful! As I always say, please shoot me an email at yourgalnextdoor@gmail.com or IG message if you have any styling questions.
The Gal Next Door would love to style you!
See ya Friday! I have a simple and sweet motherhood post coming up next. Hugs, y’all!
❤︎ ❤︎ ❤︎
XO
Pattern Mixing with The Shoe Closet
Hi there, y’all! I hope you are doing well! Did you survive Halloween? Whew, we did. And we had a lot of fun! My husband liked his gifts and his b’day cake. I made the easiest Oreo dump cake. I’m thinking I may need to share it here on the blog. If you would like to see it, let me know in the comment section below.
Today’s post is the last post with The Shoe Closet. If you’re just now following along with my posts about TSC, here’s a refresher.
Located in Wichita Falls, Tx, The Shoe Closet has been the heartbeat of fashion in Texoma since 1984. With personalized styling and a warm atmosphere, the Shoe Closet is the go-to place for all things trending. They carry brands like Alice + Olivia, Tory Burch, and the upcoming accessory line Rory Ashton. Personally, I’ve been shopping at the Shoe Closet since high school. I have always appreciated their on-point advice and diverse merchandise. I’ve really enjoyed sharing so many fun looks that TSC has to offer.
Pattern play is one of the easiest trends to rock!
Whether you wearing a patterned mixed baseball tee, layering a striped tee under a floral print cardigan, or adding a polka dot blouse under a gingham sweater, pattern mixing can be achieved on any level.
My number 1 tip: Don’t be sacred of looking too busy. If you’re wearing pattern on top, keep it simple on the bottom, or vice versa. You can wear a full patterned look. I suggest staying within the same color family and having one main print with smaller, complimentary prints.
For this Shoe Closet look, we have a leopard print top under a reversible camo/fur jacket — instant chic! As for the denim, TSC’s Hudson jeans are black, stretchy, and have grommet detailing down the leg. How cool would these look with a simple white tee and sunnies? Again, instant chic! And to top it off, the Jeffrey Campbell booties. These are next level. The adorn heel is very big this fall/winter! TSC is always in the know in regards to footwear trends.
NEWSFLASH! You can now shop The Shoe Closet online! They are having an anniversary till Saturday. Check it out here.
Again, a big thank you to The Shoe Closet for allowing Serena and I to shoot and share your looks! We had a blast!
Have any questions on how to wear pattern?
Shoot me an email at yourgalnextdoor@gmail.com or comment below.
The Gal Next Door would love to style you!
❤︎❤︎❤︎
XO
DIY Spider Headband
Hi y’all! As I always say, Happy Friday!! Have any fun Halloween plans? Just today, we’ve tackled two parties and several outfit changes, including a TNMT. Fun times!
Halloween is a very special day around out house, it’s my hubby’s b’day! We can’t wait to celebrate him. Aren’t birthdays the best?
Today, I’m sharing a fun and EASY diy project. After my last attempt a making caramel apples, I was a little weary of how this round of do-it-yourself would go. But, now that I think of it, everything probably went better because I wasn’t cooking. Ha!
Alright, y’all, fasten your seat belts for the easiest diy ever!
Below is everything you need. I did add in some tulle!
Hot Glue Gun
Headbands
Wiggly Eyes
Felt Squares
Pom Pom
Pipe cleaners
Tulle
I first used this cup to trace a circle. I ended up making the circles a little bit smaller. I recommend just cutting two small circles, it doesn’t have to be exact. No measuring needed.
Glue one circle on the headband and then sandwich the other on top.
Next, grab four pipe cleaners and cut them in half. You will have eight pieces.
Apply a generous amount of hot glue to the felt circle. Place four pipe cleaners on each side of the circle. I tried to space them out as evenly as possible. Ya know, like a real spider –wink, wink!
After letting the hot glue sit for a couple minutes, I cut a few scraps of tulle and twisted them together. I then applied hot glue on the tulle. No, this does get a little tricky. I had to use a pencil to push some of the tulle down. That being said, it sticks pretty well!
Meet the Spider Headband!
A few thoughts…
You may need to trim the legs. Depending on who is wearing it, the legs can be a little long for a young child’s head.
Also, you don’t have to use a headband. You can use this same method, without using a headband. Placing a spider on a solid colored cap would be a fun alternative!
Ok, just like every parent, I wanted a cute picture. I actually made a headband for myself (minus the pom pom), and I wanted to get a picture of us today. And, well, you can see how she felt about that.
It’s like she was saying, “Ain’t got time for that, Mom!”
I was amazed at just how easy and fun these were. Plus, I had a sweet little helper! Even though she had a melt down, she did enjoy helping me. If you have young ones, I recommend letting them play with the pom poms. I gave Camila a baggy and she enjoyed picking the pom pom ups. I mean, if she wants to help clean up, I’m not going to stop her!
I hope y’all have a super fun and safe Halloween. Chat soon!
❤︎ ❤︎ ❤︎
XO
The Easiest Way to Step Up Your Denim Game
Hi y’all! I hope you are having a fabulous week.
Welcome to the first Tip Tuesday!
This page is designed for all things fashion. Tips and tricks, how-to’s, and styling advice for all figures. The purpose of the page is to answer any questions you may have, offer styling ideas, and (most importantly) create a community.
Ladies, let’s get to talking!
For our first Tip Tuesday, we’re covering the all-denim trend. You’ve seen this around, I’m sure. Stars like Jennifer Lopez and Beyonce have definitely rocked this look. Want to achieve the same look? It’s super easy and flattering.
A few things to keep in mind…
Different shades of denim look best. Let’s say your jeans are a dark denim, having a lighter denim shirt will give the look a nice contrast.
Accessories are a must! Well, not really, but a pop of color is always fun. Whether you add a bold scarf (or bandana shown here), a statement necklace, or a colored hat, a bold color always adds interest to an all-denim look.
This look can be worn on any ever figure. Yes, every figure! Pick your favorite jeans, a contrasting denim shirt, and accessory or two (or three, ha)!
You’ve now created the perfect all denim look
I hope that you enjoyed the first Tip Tuesday! Have an event coming up? Needing help styling a certain piece in your closet? Send me an email at yourgalnextdoor@gmail.com. I’d love to help!
Have a fabulous day, y’all!
❤︎❤︎❤︎
XO
Legging Love with The Shoe Closet
Hey there! Happy Tuesday, to ya! I hope you’re having a lovely week.
Another great look from the Shoe Closet is on the blog today. First off, let me start off by saying I love leggings. I mean, what’s not to love? They are versatile and so comfy.
That’s why this look from The Shoe Closet is amazing.
The handbag and shoes are designed by Stacy Bendet for Alicia + Olivia. The “Stacy Face” clutch and shoes are playful and easy to wear. The mix of black, white, and red make a statement, yet feel classic at the same time.
The combination of a tie-neck blouse layered over a long sweater, the Stacy clutch and sneakers is, well, perfection. Comfort meats style — the epitome of what I think fashion should be all about!
Building your own legging look is super easy
What look are you going for? How about a boho legging look? Add a poncho, booties, and a floppy hat. Or, If you’re looking for something on the classic side, add a white button up blouse, cardigan, scarf, and booties.
With leggings, possibilities are endless!
What’s your fall go-to look?
Until next time, y’all!
❤︎❤︎❤︎
XO
Healthy Expectations
Hello, y’all! Lovely for you stop by! Excited it’s Friday? I am! This week has been a blur. A quick overnight night away, walking in a fashion show, and shooting has made for a busy week. Ready for some family time!
Today’s post is a recipe post, but I guarantee it’s a little different than what you’re expecting. You see, I had huge hopes for a candied apple post. After seeing some great recipes around the web, I wanted to make my own! For instances, the Delish “Apple Pops” video inspired me — actually, I thought, “Oh, that looks easy, I bet I can do that!”
After scheduling a time to shoot with my photographer and two trips to the store, it was finally time to make the apples.
My photographer, Serena is super creative and worked on the apples with me. She had the great idea to sandwich two pieces of apple together instead of using a single slice. I thought that was genius!
First, Serena used a mandolin to slice the apple. Next, I melted the Reese’s peanut butter chips and added the melted peanut butter to a slice. After adding a couple spoonfuls, I added the craft stick and added the other apple slice. To ensure that the apple slices would stick together, Serena threw them in the freezer for a few minutes.
And then things started to get weird…
After heating the caramel, I tried to drizzle the apples. Well, I wasn’t aware of just how hot caramel gets. OH MY! It burnt my finger and then hardened so quickly that I couldn’t drizzle the apples. So, I added the caramel back to the microwave, and tried to drizzle again. We quickly realized that the caramel was still too hard, so we re-heated it once again. Well, I suggested for Serena to drizzle the apples (she has much better technique) and I stepped behind the camera.
We somewhat got caramel on the apples, but not like we had imagined.
Next, I wanted to add chocolate to the apples. After following the instructions, I somewhat managed to burn the chocolate. Are we sensing a pattern here? Ha! To loosen the chocolate, I added some coconut oil. Unfortunately, this was not successful.
By this point, Serena and I had were laughing hysterically and had lost all seriousness. Although, the apples didn’t turn out as planned, we did have a few that looked pretty cute!
Sometimes things don’t go as planned. That’s life, right?
You think you cross your t’s and dot your i’s and things still fall apart. Or, you build something up in your head, only for it not to met your expectations. Even in the smallest moments, I can recognize that without God’s grace and healthy perspective, life would be much darker.
I realize making candied apples is not a major life obstacle. I’m still learning. At 30 years, I’m still learning that sometimes expectations can be misleading. While there is nothing wrong with expecting great things, it’s all about how you handle the outcome, especially when it’s not what you had in mind.
When things don’t work out, sometimes you just have to laugh. I’m not perfect, this blog isn’t perfect, and that is a-ok. Serena and I tried something new and it didn’t go as smooth as we hoped. But, that doesn’t mean we won’t try again.
Is there something you are wanting to try? Have you stuck your neck out and didn’t see the result you wanted? Don’t give up. Pray, listen, and try again. Life is too short not try new things.
Ya’ll have a beautiful weekend and try something new!
❤︎❤︎❤︎
XO
Blogging 101 / What I’ve learned in 5 months of blogging
Hey there, readers! I hope you had a relaxing and energizing weekend. Although Texas is warming up (again, blah!) Halloween and fun fall activities are around the corner. Can’t wait!
Today marks my 5 month anniversary blogging. I know, it hasn’t been a long time, but I feel like I have learned quite a bit in this short time. I’ve been wanting to share what I have learned so far in hopes of helping out a new blogger.
So, for today, I wanted to share the top 5 things that I have learned in my first 5 months. Oh, and it only seemed completely normal to title each section with a hashtag. Ha!
#Hashtagsdomatter
One of the first things I learned — those good ‘ol hashtags. When I first dove into IG was puzzled why people used them, their meaning, and how I would use them. Hashtags are sort of are the vehicle for your posts. For instances, you posts a super great picture (and your close friends love it too) and nothing happens. It sits there. The virtual crickets start and your frustration goes through the roof. Well, that’s where the hashtags come into play. When you add hashtags to your photos, this helps place your photo in front of the right people.
How do you find the right hashtags? When in IG, hit the magnifying class icon. This will bring up a page that has a toolbar at the top. Directly underneath that is a section that mention “Tags”. Tap on “Tags” and then enter a topic that you talk about, blog about, or are passionate about.
For me, I search for tags related to motherhood and style. If I put “Mom Style” into the toolbar, I’m giving the results of #momstyle and #momstylelife as the top two hashtags. These would be great choices. You will also noticed that there is a number underneath the hashtags. To state the obvious, the higher the number the more popular. I do not recommend using hashtags that only have a coupe hundred posts, unless is fits your account perfectly.
Another great way to search for hashtags, is to look at fellow bloggers that have the same style and/or message. I guarantee they will use hashtags that will benefit your profile! Check out their latest post and hashtags. This can open a new world of hashtags that will put your hard work in front of the right people.
#Staytrue
Let’s be honest, when you hope on IG, Facebook, or Twitter, there are perfect people. They have the perfect family, skin, jean size, etc. For me, sometimes this can really get to me. No, I’m no envious, but a feeling of inadequacy would sometimes creeps up. I think the root of the problem for me is that I’m putting myself out there for the whole world to see and sometimes I don’t get the response I hope for. In turn, this causes frustration to build up and I think, “Well, maybe if I was cuter I would get more likes,” or “Geez, I guess I need to posts new outfits everyday.” Is this true? NO. Absolutely not! That is the enemy lying to you. Please, don’t believe it. Yes, there are going to be perfect people out there, but no one else is you.
You are original. You have something special to share. You are enough.
And do you want to know what causes people to be successfully in blogging? They #staytrue to who they are, their messages, and don’t waver because of others.
You may have never had this problem. If not, a round of applause to you, my friend. Really! For me, my struggle comes and goes, but I’m making progress. Through out my months blogging, I have talked a lot about self love. I’m still on that journey, which includes me be comfortable sharing myself and standing by it. Progress, everyone. Progress.
#Applove
Alright, if you are new to the blogging world, I’m sharing my top two apps with you. I started using these months ago, and I feel like they helped me step up my game a bit.
First, VSCO. Have you ever seen the hashtag #vsco, #vscoeveryday, or #vscomom? If you are like me, I kept seeing these hashtags and wondering what that meant. Finally, I figured it out. VSCO is a free (yes, free!) app that not only edits your pictures, but will hold your IG feed. So, when you’re trying to set a theme for your Instagram, this is a very, very valuable tool. I can’t tell you how many times I have uploaded pictures to VSCO, looked at them on my feed (on that app), and thought, “Um, no, that fit in.” So, I delete it from the VSCO feed and try again. If you’re newer to blogging and IG, you have to get VSCO.
Next, Snapseed. Editing perfection! It took me some time, but I finally got the hang of editing. If you’re just starting out, don’t get frustrated. You will get it! Snapseed has every editing option and is easy to use. My favorite part? There is a brush tool that can enhances or decreases brightness, exposure, saturation, temperature, and can remove a random weed or flyway. Yes, they happen, ha!
Also, if you have an iPhone, Afterlight is said to be a great app. I just switched back to an iPhone, and plan on trying this app out too.
#Notenoughtime
Oh, the struggle. It’s real, and it’s not my friend. There is never enough time. Not just for blogging, but for life. I know everyone feels like this, so you can relate. But, back to blogging, I feel that someday I’m on my a-game, others I am not. My sweet photographer recently reminded of how powerful making lists are. Thank you, Serena! It is true. Writing things down and then checking them of your list is invigorating.
Besides making lists, I recommend planning your content. For a couple weeks ahead, write down what days you want to blog and what you’re going to blog about. Also, even planning your IG posts can beneficial. For me, I use a giant desk calendar, and write everything down with various colors. The different colors stand for different things. And yes, I just like the way it looks, ha!
#Pinterestpinterestpinterest
New to blogging? Want traffic? Dig into Pinterest. I recommend Board Booster or Tailwind. For me, I use Board Booster. You pick your most used (and related to your blog) boards and secretly pin to them. Then, Board Booster automate pins for you, so you don’t have to manually do it. Let me put it this way — the more pins you pin, you will attract more traffic to your Pinterest account and blog. So wonderful!
I’m still digging into these, but I’m excited to see what results they bring. I’m still learning everyday! Who uses the programs? Everyone. No really,everyone. The big wigs you see on Pinterest and Instagram that have thousands of followers use either Board Booster or Tailwind for their Pinterest. I guarantee it.
Pinterest is a search engine, can help you generate traffic, help you make affiliate income. Basically, you want your material on people’s boards.
In the future, I plan to do a blog post catered to Pinterest. But, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to email me. I’m not a wiz at it, but I have learned several tips along the way.
Currently, I’m taking Pinterest to Profits from Mckinzie Bean and it’s fabulous. Y’all, check her out. She’s a Pinterest genius!
Interested in trying out the course too? Wanting to dive deeper into Pinterest and gain even more knowledge? Pinterest to Profits is where it’s at!
I’ve enjoyed her in-depth perspective with easy how-to videos. She really takes the confusion out of things! Also, compared to other courses, Pinterest to Profits is moderately priced. A bang of your buck, for sure! Click below to sign up now.
Like I’ve said, I’m still a newbie. I get frustrated and overwhelmed everyday. But, I love this blog, and I want it to work. I strive to reach people, create community, and have some fun experiences along the way.
Feel the same? Email me! Let’s connect! Blogging is all about community. I have met some amazing ladies along the way and their support has meant the world.
Now, get to bloggin’, y’all! You got this!
❤︎❤︎❤︎
XO
What’s in your diaper bag?
Hey, hey! It’s the best day of the week! I hope you have had a great week, and have an even better weekend planned. I currently have a baby in my lap who is coming down with a fever. Oh my, my kiddos! My heart is breaking for them. If you’re dealing with sick babies, sending prayers for a quick recovery.
Speaking of kiddos, today I’m sharing my diaper bag essentials. If I could show y’all what my diaper bag (not to mention me — total hot mess!) looked like for my first outing after having my son, you would you get a really good laugh in. Seriously! My mom walked into my house and said, “Tori, do you need all of this?” I frantically replied, “Yes!” We left the house and hour and half later. An hour and a half. Being a new mom is no joke! I totally sympathize and appreciate new moms, and that’s what motivated this post. With the help of my sweet photographer, I wanted to share the items that are necessary versus the things you “think” you will need in your bag. For instances, a burp cloth is a staple item, not a finger nail file. Let’s face it, you just brought a new human into the world, the last thing on your mind is your nails.
Also, I’m sharing two fabulous items from one of my sorority sister’s baby line called Yellow Button Baby. I have known her since 2005 and she’s a doll! I’m showcasing her super soft, double sided baby blanket and bib. Both are machine washable and in colorful patterns. In fact, the bib is a brand new pattern for her fall collection. Check out Yellow Button Baby and pick up a few essentials for baby!
Enter thegalnextdoor at checkout to receive 15% off of your order!
Now, time for my favorite diaper bag items.
Pacifiers
Oh, the Wubba Nub. These infant passies are perfect for not only soothing baby, but for keeping little hands busy. Available with many different animals, these passies are great for the new mom! Although, my kiddos didn’t use the Wubba Nub, I have met countless moms who swear by them. I tried to introduce them, but by the time my kids would take a passie, they were passed the infant stage. So, we use the MAM pacifiers. My daughter is enjoying one as we speak!
Both are great, both will soothe baby!
Toys
Also, we can’t forget about the toys. I overloaded my bag with toys. Like, a new toy for every hour I was going to be out. Eek! Overload. What I’ve come to realize, is kids that don’t need that many toys. 1-2 is great, but more than that is just going to take up space in your bag. Not to mention, observing their surroundings can be fun and help them develop.
My top toy for my kiddos was the Sofie. I don’t know what kind of magic they put into these little squeaky giraffes, but they are kid magnet. For real. They are also perfect for teething!
Yellow Button Baby — Toddler Blanket & Bib
Yellow Button Baby’s Travel Blanket is amazing! It’s handmade, machine washable, and super soft! Perfect for the mom on the go. And how cute is this pattern? YBB’s blankets are available in three sizes. This is the travel blanket and I love the portability!
Yellow Button Baby’s toddler bib is perfect for a busy mom. It can be attached to the outside of your bag, is thin enough to roll up ( and not take up a bunch of room), and snaps behind baby’s neck. When your child can remove their own bib, things can get a little yucky. That’s one more reason I love this bib. I know my daughter can remove it mid-meal.
Made of quality fabrics, including cotton and bamboo, these bibs are colorful and can be personalized. How fun!
This bib is so versatile — it snapped perfectly on to my diaper bag. Of course, with a yellow snap button!
Feeding
Have you tried an EZ PZ mini matt? These are life changing. As soon as baby starts to pick up food, I recommend you get one! They are dishwasher safe, free of any harmful extras (ya know, like BPA and PVC), and promote self feeding. Plus, they are perfect for eating out.
When I started to get out of the house more, especially with my son, I struggled with ways to carry my formula. Eventually, I found the Munchkin Formula Holder, but do I wish I one of the Mixie baby bottles. My photographer shared this fabulous product with me and I had to share it with y’all!
The Mixie bottle stores a serving of formula of in an extra compartment on the bottle of the bottle. You can fill the bottle with water before or when baby’s hunger strikes. Next, pop of the bottle of the bottle and shake. How genius is that?
Diaper Ointment
Of course, Destin is always an essential. Blow outs and nasty diapers happen, that’s where this stuff comes into play. I also love A + D because of it’s waterproof consistency. 
Other Essentials
Some other great items that aren’t shown would be Infant Tylenol and Johnson & Johnson Cleaning Wipes. I’m constantly wiping my kiddos down. Germs everywhere, ha!
I hope you find this informative and helpful. I’m my no means a mom genius –just simply sharing some of my favorite items in hopes of informing new moms.
Feel like this would help a friend or family member? Share away! Motherhood is all about community.
Have a great weekend y’all and I’ll see ya next week.
❤︎❤︎❤︎
XO
* The Gal Next Door is a part of several Affiliate Marketing partnerships. I may make a percentage per click/purchase. All opinions are my own. Thank you! *
$100 Gift Card Giveaway // Poncho Perfection with The Shoe Closet
Hi guys! How are things? I’m so excited for fall! I may have already enjoyed a couple Pumpkin Spice Lattes, but hasn’t everybody? SO yummy! The past two weeks have been somewhat of a whirlwind for us. After a couple weeks of traveling, I’m diving back into the real world and loving on my babies. This momma miss her kiddos!
As for today, I’m sharing another great look from The Shoe Closet. Also, don’t forget to enter for a chance to enter for a $100 gift card. Details below!
I adore today’s look not only because it’s comfortable, but because it speaks to my inner flower child. A poncho, flares, and platforms? I’ll take that!
The poncho is made by Kerisma and at a steal of price — $65! The material has a nice weight and doesn’t not feel bulky. In fact, The Shoe Closet just received a new shipment of easy, solid sweaters that will carry through the season.
Paired with Hudson flares, Sam Eldelman platforms, and a fun tasseled Tory Burch bag, this look is perfect for football season. If there is a little chill in the air, layer a long sleeve tee, a white button up blouse, or a scarf to stay warm.
I also wanted to highlight THE new accessory to wear with any game day look. The Shoe Closet recently started carrying Erimish. Created by two sisters in Missouri, the Erimish bracelets are not only cute, but are perfectly priced. Choose 5 for $35 or $8 a piece. Currently, TSC is selling the Erimish Game Day Collection. Any team, any color, they’ve got it! What a chic way to support your favorite team. Check out The Shoe Closet’s IG account the keep up with their Erimish pieces.
Ok, we can’t forget about $100 gift card!!
How to enter? Head to The Shoe Closet! After grabbing something super stylish, mention this post to put your name in the mix. Can’t make into the store? Give The Shoe Closet a call at (940) 322-6300. With purchase, mention The Gal Next Door to be entered to win the $100 gift card. They can help you with sizing or any questions you may have over the phone.
The contest will end Friday, October 7th. Do not miss it!
I can’t wait to see what lucky reader wins the gift card. With the holidays coming up, a hefty $100 gift card couldn’t come at a better time!
Y’all take care and I’ll see ya soon.
❤︎❤︎❤︎
XO
thegalnextdoorcomblog.wordpress.com 