Grilled Pimiento Stuffed Sweet Peppers

As a child, I remember my mom always having pimiento cheese as a go-to snack - slap it on some bread or dip in your favorite veggies. Now as a mom myself, I still love me some pimiento cheese. My littlest is quite the foodie so it's great for on-the-go or as a summer staple.

Homemade pimiento cheese is good (though I am not an overachiever post kids), but I have found my favorite brand - Price*s with its real cheese, pimiento peppers, and salad dressing. Since our garden has been blooming like crazy, I decided to combine our homegrown sweet peppers with Price*s delish dish. Thus, you have the perfect grilled snack.

We spend 95% of our summer nights on the patio while the kids swim. We also love grilling and chilling on the patio. Most nights, it's just grill all the things - sausage, potatoes, shrimp, steak, pineapple - you name it, we grill it.

So, with our sweet pepper loot, we are loving our latest -  Price*s pimiento stuffed sweet peppers!

Ingredients:

A handful of sweet peppers (you can also use the snack peppers that come in the bag - I used 6)
1 container Price*s Original Pimiento Cheese (or spice it up with Price*s Zesty Jalapeno flavor)
Garlic powder, salt, and pepper, to taste

To Make:

1. Wash the peppers then cut in half and remove seeds/stems.
2. Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of Price*s into each half.
3. Top with seasonings and place on foil.
4. Place the foil on a grill set to medium-high heat.
5. Leave peppers on until they start to soften (cheese will also melt down, too).
6. Remove from grill and serve warm.

We made these poppers last weekend while our neighbors were over, and the crowd went wild! What a great dish for your July 4th barbecue.

Head to the nearest grocery to grab your Price*s Pimiento Cheese stat. Your taste buds and guests will be forever grateful.

Put Price*s pimiento cheese on your shopping list this week. Better yet, impress your party guests with this hearty appetizer.

Click HERE to learn more about Price*s and all their flavors,

where to buy, and other recipes, too!

These peppers are best with a savory taste made with mayonnaise and a blend of spices for a creamy, savory flavor with a kick of spice - so you need to try Price*s.

Be sure to grab a coupon to get $1 off, too!
*Coupon subject to regional availability**

When Grief Makes You DIfferent

I had my own notion of grief.
I thought it was the sad time
that followed the death
of someone you love.

My mom found this definition of grief and posted it to Facebook this week. And just like that - another trigger. This time, it's a good one because it allows me to spill it all. The grief. The journey. The good, the bad, and the downright sucky. I loved these words because grief is so damn confusing. We all have a notion. We will be sad - maybe for a long time. We will question - maybe even longer than any other stage. We will get angry - and maybe stick there for a bit.

And you had to push through it
to get to the other side.
But I'm learning there is no other side.
There is no pushing through.

When my dad died in 2002, the news and our new life often knocked me to my knees. Everything was different. In fact, a friend told me I was so different than before, and at first, I felt bad. I didn't mean to be different. I fought really hard to tiptoe through each grief stage. I stunk at most steps, but after years of help, I was getting somewhere. I realized I WAS different. This new me was stuck but treading on.

But rather,
there is absorption.
Adjustment.
Acceptance.

When my brother died 17 months ago, I remember sitting in my closet with a glass of wine (because...grief) thinking "here we go again. Guess I am about to be different all over again." And just because I lost my dad didn't mean I felt confident in loss this time around. In fact, I had to absorb this one in a whole other way (still absorbing, to be honest), and I am sure I am stinking this one up something fierce, too. Some may say I haven't adjusted well or I talk about it too much. Some may say I need to accept it and move on, but here's the truth - no one knows when or if ever I will do either one.

And grief is not something you complete,
but rather, you endure.
Grief is not a task to finish
and move on.

I am not saying I will wallow or cry or be angry forever (I fight hard to make it through these times in a healthy manner), but I will have days. We all will. Grief will never be completed. We have to endure life without two people - that's hard to grasp even 15 years and/or 17 months later. All of us left in my family don't have a task in front of us to complete. There's not a check mark next to "get over deaths of loved ones" on our to-do list.

But an element of yourself -
an alternate of your being,
a new way of seeing,
a new definition of self.

I am writing these words because we seek patience and love and support. We also still appreciate prayers. Not just for living with the loss but as we navigate life AFTER loss. We ARE different. If you have experienced any loss or change in your life that left you reeling, you are different, too. I write that because it's okay to be different. It's okay to struggle with absorption. And it's okay to have hard days.

You may not know loss, but I bet you know change. I bet you know hardship. It's just that - we are always seeking new ways to better ourselves. The words my mom posted are the truest words I've read about grief. Though they were another trigger, I am happy it triggered words that give grief a face, too.

Grief written by Gwen Flowers

Remembering Our Dads: A Father's Day Tribute

This post was written two years ago, and I read it again this week as we approach Father's Day. These words still hold true - we miss our dads. But, more than anything, we want you to know more about them. More about the men who made us.

There are SO many days I miss my dad. When my son wants to go fishing, when I start something new and need his advice, when I read a good book, when it’s his birthday...and especially on Father’s Day.

I am so happy that my kids have an amazing father who works hard for them, plays with them, and just loves them like crazy. But, I am sad they don’t have grandfathers to physically do the same. Yes, they have some pretty rad guardian angels watching over them, but it is still really hard to hear of kids going to the grandparents’ house to see BOTH a grandma and a grandpa. What’s even harder is that our dads were SO DAMN COOL.

My husband lost his dad unexpectedly in 2000; my dad left us unexpectedly in 2002. Here’s the best way to say it - it’s not a beautiful sentence, and it’s a term I don’t want my son to use ever - but, it sucks. It stinks for my kids, for us, for our families, and for the people who never got to know them, because believe me, you missed out completely.

My father-in-law, Charlie, was fun. He loved telling jokes, and he loved his family. He believed to get what you wanted out of life, you had to work your ass off for it. I never met him, but how do I know that? His kids do this exact same thing every day of their lives. How do I know he loved his kids like crazy? Just watch all four of them with their kids, and you will see it. I see pictures of him in our house and back at each of theirs, and he was always the life of the party. He liked his motorcycle, his close group of buddies, to have a good time, and to just have fun. I can picture him with my son, and they would talk each other’s ear off - I promise you that.

My dad, John, was my hero. He left home at an early age, and from that moment on, he worked his tail off to become something. He went to college, joined the Army, and started a family. He worked for the SAME COMPANY all of his life. In fact, he retired in 1997 only to go back a few months later because he missed it and his friends. He provided for his family. I loved hearing him come home from work everyday, walk to his corner of the kitchen, place down his briefcase, and tell me about his day. When he wasn’t working, he was outdoors. Riding his bike, building something in the garage, or fishing. He loved his cats. He loved nature. He adored his family. He loved Jimmy Buffet, Waylon Jennings, a good book, whipping up something without a recipe, and the value of education.

And both were as carefree as they come; something I struggle with every single moment of my life. I could use both to tell me to chill out and enjoy it because as we know, life is over in a split second. They would love their grand kids. My little tomboy who is almost 2 would wrap those two around her little finger as she digs for worms, sits in mud, and cries to be outside rain or shine. And I HATE that they are not here to see it.

This Sunday, I will celebrate my husband, my brother, my brothers-in-law, and great friends who are amazing fathers. But, my husband and I will most likely shed some tears on what could’ve been. We will cry for these two kick ass dads we miss all the time; but, it’s today that will hit us hardest as it does every year. So for those of you with your dads and grandpas around, please hug them so tight. Have them share stories with your kids. That’s too awesome to miss. And for those of us hurting and missing, I send you a big hug and an “I get it.” My mom lost her dad 50 years ago, and this day hurts for her too. Remember these folks. Say prayers for their hearts. And if you get a chance, think of Charlie and John (or Grandpa Charlie and Pop). They are up their tossing back a Miller Light (or maybe some wine for Charlie!) as they fish in God’s Heaven.

I miss you, 339. I pray to feel your hugs and to hear your advice. You gave me the best life, and I am forever grateful. Happy Father’s Day.

If you are missing your loved one on Father's Day, my heart is with you. Grief is sneaky - especially on days like this one. You are prayed for, my friend.

Celebrating Dads With JORD Watches (+ A Giveaway!)

This post is sponsored by JORD Wood Watches. The watch mentioned is courtesy of JORD. As always, the thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. Thanks for supporting Always A New Day!

It's almost time for the big day - where we get to celebrate the awesomeness of dads! And, if you want to spoil that special father in your life, JORD is the place to do it. You know how much I love my JORD, so I was excited to work with them again - this time with a men's watch for the hubs.

He works so hard and never asks for much (plus he puts up with ME - no easy feat, I tell ya). He rarely buys nice pieces for himself so the kids and I had fun picking out this JORD watch that is all HIM. We even cheated and gave it to him early (a certain toddler can't keep secrets).

How do you plan to celebrate the dads in your life this Father's Day? Our day will be spent swimming, grilling, and chilling. Perfect for my simple guy. Now he has this cool watch to go with our backyard plans. We love the sporty look of his newest accessory!

If you'd love to get a beautiful wood watch for your baby daddy, JORD is giving one away to a lucky Always A New Day reader! Every person who enters could win a $100 gift code to use on their site (check out their women's line, too - treat yourself)! One lucky person will win, but EVERYONE who enters will receive a $25 off coupon code once the contest ends.

Click HERE to enter the giveaway!

(The giveaway will close July 9, 2017 at 11:59pm.

Both the $100 and the $25 codes will expire on October 31, 2017)

Good luck and HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to all those awesome and hardworking daddies!

And, don't forget to see my Father's Day Gift Guide HERE for more gift ideas for your main squeeze.

Luxury Wooden Watch

A Father's Day Gift Guide - For The Dad Who Has Everything

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Harry's. Thank you for gifting the Father's Day Shave set! As always, all thoughts/opinions are 100% my own.  Affiliate links also used. Thanks for supporting Always A New Day!

Disclaimer 2: To my husband, STOP READING NOW. :)

Father's Day is around the corner, and if your hubs is like mine, he pretty much has all he needs (so he says). And, he keeps it simple. You can see how we did it up right last year (truth: we will most likely do the same again on June 18th), but I am excited to throw in some goodies, too.

Bluetooth Headphones - If you follow me on Instagram, you know my hubs just returned from a long business trip. And as of late, his work has added some stress. One way we like to combat all that stress is to exercise. For him, he likes to run so what better gift than these nifty things?

Orangetheory Fitness - Since February, I have changed my workouts quite a bit. I have never done a tougher more effective workout than Orangetheory. If you're competitive (and like to push yourself), I cannot recommend OT enough! And, my kids have themselves a competitive dad so the Father's Day Bundle is going to get him started on my latest obsession! Find your nearest OT locations and their specials HERE.

Wasatch Woods Wedding Band - I gifted this ring to my husband on his 40th birthday, and he loves it! He also loves woodworking so I thought this would be such a unique accessory for him. Why not give this uniqueness for Father's Day, too? Wasatch Woods was a pleasure to work with as we designed the ring right for him.

The Stranger In The Woods by Michael Finkel - My nephew recommended this book after hearing rave reviews. In this true story, a man decides to follow his dream of leaving the modern world to focus on nature and himself. When the hubs gets stressed at work, he often dreams of moving to the country to escape the hustle and bustle. I admire his goals and know this book will be a page-turner for him.

Sperry's Top-Sider Men's Salt-Washed Striper Boat Shoe - We leave for the beach soon, and these shoes would be perfect for him! My husband does not shop often for himself. Meaning, he tends to keep clothes/shoes for a LONG time. He needs these - like really, really needs them.

Best Dad Ever Grilling Apron - Besides wood-working and getting his run on, he is a master on the grill. He pretty much grills or uses his smoker most weekends as we swim/hang out! I love this cute (ahem - masculine) apron - the kids would get a kick out of it, too!

UA Tactical Tech Zip Pull-Over (Benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project) - Under Armour is a staple in this household! This zipped pull-over is light but great for the active dad. Think football season - grab one ASAP! Especially when a purchase supports such a great cause, you can't beat it!

Harry's Father's Day Shave Set - I am most excited for this one because I know it will be used daily! The quality of Harry's products are top-notch. The hubs has hinted at wanting more Harry's products so I am excited to give him this set. It's tucked away for the big day, but the littles almost spoiled the surprise. Head over to Harry's to see what other treats they have for your handsome man!

And there you have it. For the dad who has it all. For the dad who likes to keep it simple. For the dad who likes to look good. PIN THIS as you build your own gift guide. These dads are worth it!

Happy Father's Day, y'all!

The Beginner's Guide to Vintage Markets

I had the best experience this weekend partnering with Vintage Market Days of Northwest Houston! If you've read a while, you know I love me some shopping (see HERE and HERE) - especially for unique pieces, clothing, jewelry, décor, etc. And, since my sister has her own shop, my love for all things vintage has grown!

If you've never experienced any vintage market, you must do so ASAP. Grab your girlfriends and hit the road - shop til' you drop, my friends. With the help of Kathy at Vintage Market Days of Northwest Houston, I am excited to bring you a beginner's guide to the perfect shopping experience.

SEARCH FOR DATES

I guarantee there's a vintage market coming to your world this year. As for Vintage Market Days of Northwest Houston, you can click on their website to see where they are headed next. Then, pick a date and tell your friends. Go for a day or for the whole weekend - you won't be disappointed!

MAKE YOUR LIST

Think Target but bigger. Think TJ Maxx but legit vintage items. If you are redoing a room in your home, you'll find the perfect piece at a vintage market. At times, there's SO MUCH GOODNESS, it can be overwhelming! My list included some summer wardrobe staples for our upcoming beach trip. Or think gifts - start your Christmas shopping or grab that birthday present for a friend!

Jill Allison Designs

FIND SMALL SHOPS

Check out the vendor list for the market. Then, go see if the shop has a Facebook page or an Instagram account. I found my chips and salsa shirt on Insta first then stalked them at the market. I am a happy mama! By finding them on social media, you can see more of what they offer.

Kreative Kustomz

Rumfield Homestead

A Little Junk In My Trunk

Lasered Creations

Top from Texas Stitches (Website coming soon!)

Texas Sweet Tees

Fancy Girl Bow-Tique

TAKE YOUR TIME

Plan on being there for a bit because there's so much to see. Plus, there's always delish food/drinks to try! We tried chicken salad, walking tacos, lemonade, and many a sweet treat. You can always compare prices on items because some shops carry the same things. Thus, take your time - there's a deal waiting on you! Oh and don't forget cash - it's always easier!

Mary Had A Little Party

To Kathy and everyone at Vintage Market Days of Northwest Houston, THANK YOU for a fun day. I loved meeting the amazing vendors and spending the day with my sister and friends.

PS - if you see anything you like from the market, click on the shop! Many ship all over, and I recommend everything you see!

40 Self-Care Ideas - For The Anxious Mom

Summer is coming, and while I am SO excited to take a break from crazy routines, my anxiety has popped up as of late. What will we do with all that time? Is it okay to watch THAT much television? How will I handle the sibling rivalry on a daily basis? My head spins with the "what ifs," and it can play those mind tricks I desperately try to fight.

I am a BIG believer in ME time and self-care. When you know anxiety so well, you have to be creative and INTENTIONAL in taking care of yourself. So while summer is coming, I know that I have to make myself a priority with these self-care ideas.

1. Wake up early for quiet time/coffee/devotional.
2. Make time for your physical health. Get up and move!
3. Talk to someone and get advice.
4. Read a good book.
5. Read a good cookbook.
6. Plan out a new meal to put in your rotation.
7. Watch an old movie.
8. Watch a movie with your spouse.
9. Ask your spouse to take kids out for an hour (or more!).
10. Start a daily devotional.
11. Start a gratitude journal.
12. Color in a an adult coloring book.
13. Give yourself grace.
14. Go on a date.
15. Utilize parents days/nights out.
16. Sit down during naptime.
17. Binge watch a new show.
18. Eat that ice cream.
19. Turn off the TV and play your favorite tunes.
20. Brainstorm a list of possible new hobbies.

21. Dedicate time to learn a new hobby.
22. Take a bubble bath.
23. Enjoy a glass of wine on a Monday. Or Tuesday. Or any day.
24. Plan a weekend of nothing.
25. Pick a date and plan a girls night in.
26. Pick a date and plan a girls night out.
27. Hire a babysitter once a week.
28. Search Pinterest for a an easy DIY craft.
29. Turn off the news.
30. Pray.
31. Write down your prayers.
32. Tuck them away in a box to pray over often.
33. Spend quality one-on-one time with each child.
34. Schedule social media time so you don't get in the comparison game.
35. Try yoga at a local yoga studio.
36. Spend alone time in Target.
37. Eat lunch out alone.
38. Take a nap or lie down listening to soothing sounds.
39. Say 'no' more often.
40. Forgive yourself.

I think I can make these things work. Sure, kids need a summer break, but don't we need a break every now and then, too? Now, sit back and make your self-care "to-do" list. Take care of YOU so you can take care of them!

What's on your self-care list? Make it good because you deserve it! Happy summer - here we go!

What's On My Summer Reading List

There's something about the lack of routine, the lazy mornings, and all the pool days of summer that make reading more enjoyable. During the school year, there's just so much going on that I can barely keep my eyes open after the kids are down. But, not this summer, folks. I am about to up my reading game.

Check out what's on my summer reading list for 2017. I love to spend time finding books I know I will love. I often use the feature on Amazon that chooses selections based on your past reads. Here's what I am reading next.

Truly Madly Deeply - Big Little Lies fans? Check out another from Liane Moriarity. I have read a few of hers and can't put them down. She always grabs me with her characters, their mysteries, and their crazy lives. I will probably put her books at the top of my list!

Three Wishes - See above. I am so excited to learn she has another one I haven't read! This one follows triplet sisters as they navigate their way though marriage, work/life balance, and all the secrets. The description of "wise, witty, and hilarious" makes this a must-read for me.

Present Over Perfect - Another big recommendation has been Shauna Niequist's collection of essays. Adult life/mom life is a complicated mess of goodness and sorrow. We question our every move so I love that this book invites us "to consider the landscape of your own life, and what it might look like to leave behind the pressure to be perfect and begin the life-changing practice of simply being present, in the middle of the mess and the ordinariness of life."

Ladies' Night - I admit - bright, fun covers do grab my attention. This book follows the ups and down of a prominent lifestyle blogger who navigates through life changes and marriage woes. Sounds like the perfect light read.

The Couple Next Door - Time to switch up the light for some suspense! Lies, betrayal, twists, secrets. This one sounds juicy, and I am in. A terrible crime is committed at a dinner party, and the reader is left to decide who did it all. Which couple is to blame? Who is hiding a secret? I love a good mystery, and this one fits the bill.

The Magnolia Story - Confession: this book as been on my list for SO long. We love Chip and JoJo so I am excited to read more of their story. From her faith to her vision for her family and her business, Joana Gaines is a role model for any busy, driven mama.

Left Neglected - This book reminds me of What Alice Forgot by Liana Moriarity where a mom - in a crazy rush to get life done - get into an accident that forces her to reevaluate priorities and relationships. A book about finding yourself is the midst of chaos always has my attention.

Into The Water - Did you love The Girl on the Train? One of my favorite thrillers of all time. Now, Paula Hawkins is back to follow the stories of two deaths that bring up past secrets in a small town. There is one person who ties it all together, and we read to learn more about what connects them all. Sounds like another page-turner.

The Magic of Motherhood - I keep seeing my Insta-friends posting about this book. Anything about motherhood - the real and the raw, sign me up! This book's description says it's like a long coffee date with a dear friend. Motherhood is hard, beautiful, and scary. The content of this book acts as a support group of moms who feel they are alone in their struggles and triumphs. I can't wait to dig in!

NINE BOOKS. Is this mama too ambitious? I might be, but I am missing that escape that can only come from a good read. My book club got lost in all the crazy school year mess, but we plan to reconvene, and I am glad we have this list to get us started.

What's on your summer reading list? Need more ideas? See the books I LOVED last summer HERE. I will be back to book blogging soon and update what has been my favorite. Stay tuned!

Happy reading, friends! And happy SUMMER!

Affiliate links used - thanks for supporting Always A New Day!

Favorite Foodies on Instagram

I love me some meal planning - the more prep I do, the better choices I make. And, I get some great tips and meal ideas from Instagram. The pictures and recipes fit into what I have been working on with my diet. Well, I say "diet" loosely - I am pretty sure the queso and margaritas I had on Mother's Day weren't paleo and/or low carb :)

If you are looking for colorful, yummy, AND healthy meal ideas - check out these amazing ladies! I've linked up their accounts which will then take you to meal planning success (a.k.a. their blogs!) so check out my foodie favorites.

Paleomg - So many reasons to love Juli! Her spunk, her love of Orange Theory, her food, and her cute pup. Her latest post for this Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf has my meal planning wheels turning!

Clean Food Crush - Beware. You will want to dive into every single photo of Rachel's! The colorful eats will prove that eating healthy does have flavor and flare. She has GREAT tips on meal prep, too!

Iowa Girl Eats - I recently discovered Kristin and her gluten-free goodness. Last week, I made the Sausage, Peppers, and Mushroom Hash and HOLY YUM. Topped it with a fried egg and so good! This made for great lunches. I cannot wait to make this dish again.

Maria Emmerich - The 30 Day Ketogenic Cleanse has been eye-opening for me. There's so much to learn about the keto diet, and this book puts it all into perspective. While I want to lose some pounds, I mainly want to just FEEL better. Before I'd ever jump into anything like this, I want to learn. Follow Maria for great keto advice and recipes!

Damn Delicious - Chungah has some meals you MUST TRY STAT! I plan to do her copycat Starbucks bento boxes this week. Perfect to take on the go. And you definitely can't go wrong with any of her dinners. This shrimp pasta has been a favorite - we do zoodles instead of pasta. YUM to the O!

Love Living Whole - One of my favorite things is to have healthy ingredients (i.e. sweet potatoes, chopped veggies, avocado, hardboiled eggs) on hand to just throw in a dish. I've been inspired by Steph's posts. There are some combos I'd never come up with on my own. The breakfasts and quick lunch ideas are my favorites!

Are you hungry yet?? Go check out these foodies and start your meal planning! And if you have any foodie favorites, please share. Because FOOD is my favorite :)

How To Blog Without Stress - Two Year Blogiversary

Hip hooray - I'm officially celebrating my two year blogiversary! And....I officially still don't know what I am doing. There are SO many bloggers out there and SO many good ones at that - it can get overwhelming. When I first started, I remember some bloggers sharing that it took hours to create a post, and I thought....pffffft. I can do it in 20 minutes or less.

See my first almost year of posts. That 20 minutes of work is obvs. Sigh.

I want to produce quality work. Interesting, real-life content. I want to share what's important to me and the things that help this tired mama. Thus, this simple little anxious blogging mama wants to share how to blog WITHOUT stress. Emphasis on the little. Gigantic spotlight on the anxious.

My best tip on how to blog without stress is to share when you FEEL like sharing. Don't blog like other bloggers - blog like YOU. For me, I post when it feels like ME. When I feel like words/products/tips will make another's crazy life a bit easier.

If you look at the dates on my posts, there are some big gaps. Those gaps happen because I feel the lull and don't have the passion some days. So, I wait for it to come out or I wait for something to grab my attention that I just have to share.

Some weeks, I save the words for me. I just need to get them out but don't want to share. Some weeks, I have so much to say, I could blog for days. Don't put a number on how much you post a week. Put the words on your heart first.

I love writing. And I would love my words to do more - to add some support for my family. This blog has become such a huge part of my mom world. Such a huge part of my healing journey. If I could take that love and move it steps further, why wouldn't I?

But, you can bet those steps will be filled with passion. Encouragement. Love. But, most of all, the words will be filled with purpose.

Don't put numbers on yourself. Don't overcommit to what doesn't feel like you. Don't drift away from why you started. Do not let all of these things cause you stress in an already stressful world.

Do remember your why. Do you remember yourself. When you stick to who you are AND you share what is meaningful to you, the stress takes a step back to all the goodness you have to offer.

So while I am still so very small, I am blessed that my words have reached others. I am honored by 1 or 2 people saying they read my little bloggity blog. I still hold true to these blogging principles.

And, I hope if you want feel the urge to share - in any form - then do so on your terms. And if you have words that want to get out, let them and let them come without stress.

Let them come with heart.

Thanks for being on this journey with me.

You can see my first post ever HERE. What a difference two years has made.

My Favorite Things - A Mother's Day Gift Guide

Disclosure: Special thanks to Colorado Aromatics for the products in this post. Affiliate links are also used. As always, all opinions are completely my own. Thanks for supporting Always A New Day!

Mother's Day is coming up, and I fully believe we need to be celebrated! Whether the hubs needs some ideas or want to buy a little something for yourself, I've created a gift guide based on my favorite things. From ways to take care of yourself and your skin to a few things that I wear on repeat, it's all here! Sure, big gifts are great, but I love the ones that are practical and make everyday just a bit brighter.

Target Stackable Coffee Mug - You know I love my coffee and firmly believe that the cuter the mug, the better the coffee! Target's stackable collection is my favorite. Each mug fits perfectly under my Keurig and is fun to use - even on Monday mornings.

Knox Rose Off The Shoulder Dress - Target to the rescue again! This sweet dress caught my eye after searching for a great dress for my son's upcoming First Communion. It will pair well with my wedges here in the guide or with some simple flip flops, too!

Airwalk Furry Moc - I've been eyeing some Ugg slippers for a while, but I couldn't justify the cost. When strolling into Payless recently, I found these furry friends. They are so soft and perfect for strolling around the house.

Steve Madden Elody Wedge Sandal - I don't spend much on clothes - I like simple and have to watch the budget. But, I did grab these wedges ASAP. I love the bigger wedge Steve Madden sandals, but these beauties feel more everyday to me. Walk - don't run - to grab your cute pair!

Norwex EnviroCloth - I caught the Norwex bug thanks to my sweet friend, Dana. I am SO excited for this EnviroCloth to come in so I can safely and quickly clean my house in seconds. If you want to know more, make sure to click on the link and see what Dana can get for you!

Old Navy Jersey Swing Dress - Another dress in the rotation. And, I might go back for more colors. Over my last girls weekend, I paired this swing dress with the Steve Madden wedges. So simple and cute! I've also paired it with my Converse and simple flip flops.

Colorado Aromatics Lotion - If you love essential oils and all natural skincare products, you will love Colorado Aromatics! I have been using their Mountain Mist Hand and Body Lotion which moisturizes without leaving your hands greasy. The key ingredients - including green treat extract and avocado oil - act as an antioxidant and protect skin. If you need some pampering, I recommend Colorado Aromatics.

YETI 20 Oz. Rambler - You rarely see me without my YETI cups. This size is a favorite due to the light weight and portability. It fits perfectly in my car's cup holder and is easy to grip. An added bonus if you can get a monogrammed cup, too!

Stella and Dot Sterling Silver Charm - My sweet friend, Kellie, is a Stella and Dot stylist. I purchased these favorite earrings from her, but I am also loving their charms. This initial charm sits on a delicate necklace with each child's birthstone. Really, you can't go wrong with anything Stella and Dot.

And, I can't share my favorites without mentioning my sister (Jill Allison Designs) and all her goodies. Right now, she has these handbags/wristlets/totes that I am loving! Her new site is launching soon so make sure you give her a Facebook follow so you can know when it's live! If you see any goody you love, make sure you stop by and let her know.

And there you have it - all my current favorites rolled into one post! Happy Mother's Day to all of you! Make sure you are pampered and know how much you are LOVED!

Seeking Help: How I Take Care of My Mental Health

When I was 22, I lost someone very important to me. His death was sudden, and it consumed me. My parents wanted me to talk to someone, but I was so hesitant. I fought the idea but because I could see the worry in my dad's eyes, I talked. Then, I talked some more. This wonderful counselor brought me back to life.

Fast forward three years, and that worried, amazing, hardworking dad of mine was gone suddenly, too. I knew exactly where I would find peace and understand this new grief cycle.

Having kids. Changing jobs. Health scares. Anxiety sprinkled with sneaky depression. My previous counselor was gone so I had to find another one. Trial and error until I found my fit. And that fit saves me every two weeks. In the past, I would go when I needed my "fix" - an objective view of how I was dealing with life. But, now with the loss of my brother and all the crazy ass grief that follows, I know I cannot figure it out in one day and I sure as hell can't figure it out alone.

This is why I see a counselor.

There's a huge part of me who is hesitant to share this. But, we get annual check-ups for our physical health, why not the mental? Mental illness and/or mental health is so taboo - it's risky to talk about. It's scary to say you get help. Some people believe you should keep that part of your life to yourself. But, why?

SO many people suffer daily with anxiety and sadness. If you're like me, you can function with anxiety, but you fight like hell to keep it at bay on a daily basis. Mine is all mental. I don't have panic attacks, but I can take a small daily crisis and turn it into the greatest catastrophe. And my special super power is I can do it in about 2.5 seconds. This is why I see a counselor.

I have written before about mental health. I have had great friends find great help just because everyday life is no joke. I also have AMAZING friends who get me - they get that when plans change, I freak a bit. They get that some moments with my busy toddler cause me angst. They get that a story on social media triggers my grief. They get it.

And you know who else gets me? My counselor. She gives me hope. She gives me resources. She opens my eyes every time I go. When I leave, I honestly feel 10 pounds lighter.

And right now, in this crazy grief cycle of anger and sadness (currently stuck between the two - it's a joy), she lets me feel and lets me let it ALL out. Sometimes the things I say even surprise me. She's saving me with every visit.

So there you have it - I said it. I see a counselor. People may be weirded out by that statement. People may think I'm weird. That's okay. But, there may be one person who reads this and says, "ok, I am going to get ME checked out." Heck, even Prince Harry is speaking up about mental health.

Maybe this post is about people understanding me. Understand that while I am mess with my worry, I am trying. Isn't that what we should all do?

Life has been so damn hard, but it has been so damn awesome, too. I may never be cured from anxiety, and grief may continue to go in it's crazy cycle, but I am trying every single day.

That's why I see a counselor.

You can see my other mental health posts by clicking MOM WELLNESS at the top of my page.