Day 21: Work it

The 21 Day Challenge has come to an end! I've learned quite a bit from the lovely ladies who've exposed themselves to the lens every day. It's been challenging, for sure, especially since I hate having my picture taken and have avoided it at all costs for the last 25 years. I've learned to wear a belt, do something different with my hair, and try mixing pieces. I've pulled jewelry out that has sat in my drawer for years. But mostly I've learned to be confident with what God's given me instead of yearning for what I'm not. It's been good.

But I can't say I'll be sorry to not have to photograph myself each and every day!

Faded Glory tank (thrifted, $1.50), Kirra color block tank (thrifted, $1.50), Express sweater (thrifted, $4), Gloria Vanderbilt jeans (thrifted, $5), beaded earrings (thrifted, $1), hairclip borrowed from my tween, flower pin swiped from another thrifted blouse, Etienne Aigner sandals (TJ Maxx,)
Whole outfit without shoes=$13

But the best thing of all was having my daughter tell me, "Mom, you're so beautiful." To raise a girl who knows that about herself long before she gets to be 40, who has the confidence that no matter what clothes or size or brand she wears she is precious in the eyes of God, is truly a worthy challenge.

Day 20: Sunday Shoes

Confession: I don't really have Sunday shoes. Jeans and a tee or a party dress are acceptable at our church, so all my shoes qualify.

This is an everyday casual summer outfit. I just added some dressier shoes and a fun bracelet.

Gap tee & St. John's Bay skirt (thrifted), Walmart bracelet (borrowed from Sissy), Payless sandals

Day 19: Adorn your Head

So continuing on with this "new hair" thing, I tried another headband.

I know I need jewelry, but it's a zillion degrees here today, and I just couldn't take it! I was just about melting while taking these pictures.

Odille blouse (thrifted)
Maidenform cami (thrifted)
Cherokee shorts (thrifted)
Mossimo flats (target)
Headband--piece of lace I removed from a piece of thrifted fabric
Earrings from Etsy-- www.etsy.com/shop/kgarnerdesigns

On a family note, we took the kids on a field trip today. They had a ball climbing on tanks, touring museums, and playing in the water. Here are a few of my favorite shots:

Bubba directing the water in the fountain as if it's music.

L.B. dancing to his brother's music.



Another Christmas card photo reject. Thanks, Bozo boy.

Sissy and her daddy.

Ain't life grand? Today, it definitely was!

Day 18: Statement Jewelry

I don't have much in the way of jewelry, let alone statement jewelry. Most of what I own was purchased in my teen years, when dainty jewelry with argyle sweaters were popular.

My dad made these earrings for my mom in the 70's. I've claimed them as my own. I'd probably wear them more if they didn't resemble an ad for Oprah's magazine.

It's ridiculously hot today, and I'm preparing for company on top of teaching school, so the outfit is basic and cool.

Big Lots tee, handmade skirt (thrifted and altered), Mossimo flats (Target)