tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3161743782045914342024-03-05T16:25:39.567-06:00matters of merrymakingBekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.comBlogger566125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-9375066285553030472014-08-19T07:00:00.000-05:002014-08-19T07:00:00.631-05:00Just writing to say I love you...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Attention: This is NOT a test, I repeat do not adjust your monitors. You're reading this correctly, I have returned from the elephant graveyard right to your blog reading device once again… Oh hey there! How have you been the past three months? My, oh my, I have been great. Summertime is always better spent lounging by the pool, sipping cool drinks on patios, and spending some QT with your besties. Sure, I still get dressed and go shopping and such, but for some reason I have never been much a good blogger during the summer months. Honestly, I don't think I've cracked open this here laptop since I got my iPad in March! Eek! I realllllly dropped the ball this summer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I missed you chickens, I did indeed. I would totally do a catch-up post, but if you even give a hoot about what I've been up to… you already follow along in my Instagram. But because I love picture collages (and you probably do too) here is a collection of some of my favorite things I did in the past three months, for your eyeball's enjoyment. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Imagine this in my best TV voice: <i>Previously on Matters of Merrymaking…</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitPqZNGiM9Bp5czwyOu05nha6dY7g4ETc2zs_CFWUwfYZ3vCDS2hNbH7ncOt0kgjEr2sorfX17uDxKro0v7W27lrdA1up1qs_KJSXv7-QMi2xZBfPuYwQP0LrckctuJ6VSEyByVcauYkS5/s1600/Unknown+copy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitPqZNGiM9Bp5czwyOu05nha6dY7g4ETc2zs_CFWUwfYZ3vCDS2hNbH7ncOt0kgjEr2sorfX17uDxKro0v7W27lrdA1up1qs_KJSXv7-QMi2xZBfPuYwQP0LrckctuJ6VSEyByVcauYkS5/s1600/Unknown+copy.png" height="640" width="583" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Long story short (too late)... I spent two weeks in paradise, enjoyed a summer of tourist-ing in my own town, spent too many days by the pool (I'm one big freckle,) and there are many margaritas and craft beers not pictured. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I hope to return to merrymaking more regularly here soon!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
PS Thanks for all of the emails & notes telling me you missed me, be sure to leave a comment or shoot me a message to let me know how you've been. Sweet words have not gone unnoticed and I seriously have some of the best readers ever ever! XO, Bekah</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-80867157935998893062014-05-09T07:00:00.000-05:002014-05-09T07:00:11.471-05:00Friday Faves: Electric Inspiration <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Sqk7FbZ09LE/U2lMea5wzuI/AAAAAAAAHqo/X1I9_5U8BFI/s1633/Photo%25252020140506155618.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Sqk7FbZ09LE/U2lMea5wzuI/AAAAAAAAHqo/X1I9_5U8BFI/s500/Photo%25252020140506155618.jpg" id="blogsy-1399409788153.5286" class="aligncenter" width="700" height="658" alt=""></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"> I've really been feeling the electric vibe here lately. I love these items and I'm especially yearning for that Urban Decay electric palette. Hint hint my birthdays coming up! (hi, family!) Check out all the item details <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/m/set?.embedder=2393926&.svc=copypaste&id=121281452" target="_blank" title="">here</a>. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Happy weekend! TGIF!</p><p> </p>Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-65628478823529253612014-05-08T07:00:00.000-05:002014-05-08T07:00:09.927-05:00Jumpsuit Jungle <p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-NIknSj5yBx4/U2qk2p_jbjI/AAAAAAAAHq4/ebvJd_JFHg8/s1359/Photo%25252020140507162538.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-NIknSj5yBx4/U2qk2p_jbjI/AAAAAAAAHq4/ebvJd_JFHg8/s500/Photo%25252020140507162538.jpg" id="blogsy-1399497985427.8203" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="566"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AWYHxx18LXw/U2qk55giQyI/AAAAAAAAHrA/KjABqcB9KwA/s1600/Photo%25252020140507162538.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AWYHxx18LXw/U2qk55giQyI/AAAAAAAAHrA/KjABqcB9KwA/s500/Photo%25252020140507162538.jpg" id="blogsy-1399497985423.6882" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="667"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">jumpsuit: rainbow // sandals: Payless // necklace: gift // clutch: jun lee </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQO2xo6K3L_rwLb5nw6ifDshlVV_8IU9bPTt8KaTdSksHQK1xBgEZq-ZIODA8FR_99-mSiUVlDzc8RDQE9hDuxXx3NEDBp1LmpEcU0pmShb1T84jtuYa3H9VX7PFKH7IFdvztDaLO7ifS/s1600/Photo%25252020140507162538.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQO2xo6K3L_rwLb5nw6ifDshlVV_8IU9bPTt8KaTdSksHQK1xBgEZq-ZIODA8FR_99-mSiUVlDzc8RDQE9hDuxXx3NEDBp1LmpEcU0pmShb1T84jtuYa3H9VX7PFKH7IFdvztDaLO7ifS/s500/Photo%25252020140507162538.jpg" id="blogsy-1399497985494.43" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="667"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9W-Po-8fjLOGo26V5rPXwrwhaQ_NAoa5GPnEWjkh6VoCt7T5swxZcq0xPyy9K7136EAAy_fUZuTStTf31zgubgnft3pVvBsoSKW2Ug5PhAASLVXK_saSM9Eim-q1X7rmS6o_wzN7FgeVN/s1442/Photo%25252020140507162538.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9W-Po-8fjLOGo26V5rPXwrwhaQ_NAoa5GPnEWjkh6VoCt7T5swxZcq0xPyy9K7136EAAy_fUZuTStTf31zgubgnft3pVvBsoSKW2Ug5PhAASLVXK_saSM9Eim-q1X7rmS6o_wzN7FgeVN/s500/Photo%25252020140507162538.jpg" id="blogsy-1399497985510.6716" class="aligncenter" width="500" height="416" alt=""></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">This, my little chickens, is my first adventure in one-piece/jumpsuits/play suits land... Whatever you prefer to call them, I used to have a closed mind that onesies are for babies and completely unflattering. I wasn't completely convinced at first, but I've worn it a few times to positive reviews. What fun is personal style if you can't take any chances now and then. I'm excited to dress it up for night out soon with wedges. You can't really tell from the pictures, but it's a linen type material, perfect for continuing in to the summer months. The wide legs were the selling point. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Rompers, however, I'm not completely sold on. </p><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><p style="text-align: center;"><em>Baby</em> steps. </p><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><p> </p>Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-75815609265021310022014-05-07T07:00:00.000-05:002014-05-07T09:11:50.799-05:00Music Fest Merrymaking <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QrXhcUc4dyU/U2k8LObFdNI/AAAAAAAAHqA/TXyM7gHJgZ0/s1600/Photo%25252020140506144639.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QrXhcUc4dyU/U2k8LObFdNI/AAAAAAAAHqA/TXyM7gHJgZ0/s500/Photo%25252020140506144639.jpg" id="blogsy-1399471876113.8594" class="aligncenter" width="700" height="1026" alt=""></a><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"><font size="5">dress: Ross ($12!!!!) // necklace: accessory auctions FB //</font></span></div></span></div><p style="text-align: center;"><font size="5">booties: barefoot Tess</font></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUWdzHZO6RL82p8q3igaB03dvWvZ2tDMYsRPaMEWawU_lNsY_P1m1lU3ZkOoouip__1duo9Y1FtL-G0DZBNhieE91E5aLbcdKmZXot9pMwcaWujIO9HHWK8Oe_EkvwIp8MFnby_PSTHt3/s1600/Photo%25252020140506144639.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUWdzHZO6RL82p8q3igaB03dvWvZ2tDMYsRPaMEWawU_lNsY_P1m1lU3ZkOoouip__1duo9Y1FtL-G0DZBNhieE91E5aLbcdKmZXot9pMwcaWujIO9HHWK8Oe_EkvwIp8MFnby_PSTHt3/s500/Photo%25252020140506144639.jpg" id="blogsy-1399471876124.779" class="aligncenter" width="700" height="934" alt="" style="text-align: left;"></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--oiI0Y21h9c/U2k8QphaLCI/AAAAAAAAHqQ/Gxa0NmKhQw8/s1600/Photo%25252020140506144639.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--oiI0Y21h9c/U2k8QphaLCI/AAAAAAAAHqQ/Gxa0NmKhQw8/s500/Photo%25252020140506144639.jpg" id="blogsy-1399471876100.7253" class="aligncenter" width="700" height="934" alt=""></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"> I wore this outfit over the weekend to the annual Memphis in May Beale Street music festival. Every year, we are either battling tornados, rain storms, or a heat wave. Thankfully, this year the weather was perfect. I picked the wrong shoes to wear (as I normally do) but when I was dancing on the banks of the mighty Mississippi listening to Alabama Shakes in the 65 degree breeze... I didn't have a care in the world. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gEmP-4jm8Ms/U2k8WdW5WhI/AAAAAAAAHqY/Fu8lhV6WnK0/s2048/Photo%25252020140506144639.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gEmP-4jm8Ms/U2k8WdW5WhI/AAAAAAAAHqY/Fu8lhV6WnK0/s500/Photo%25252020140506144639.jpg" id="blogsy-1399471876136.5598" class="aligncenter" width="600" height="600" alt=""></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">I wish Music Fest was more than just once a year. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Happy hump day! </p><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><p> </p>Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-78213805711129619232014-05-06T12:17:00.001-05:002014-05-06T12:20:20.770-05:00Hippie Hippie Shake <p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TPw7wSHKoqY/U2kYgk3XLLI/AAAAAAAAHpY/cYq9m6G4OR8/s1600/Photo%25252020140506121346.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TPw7wSHKoqY/U2kYgk3XLLI/AAAAAAAAHpY/cYq9m6G4OR8/s500/Photo%25252020140506121346.jpg" id="blogsy-1399396653941.2847" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="934"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-M-IR-lm2-0w/U2kYtiqgnBI/AAAAAAAAHpg/0Top-D6dQNE/s1600/Photo%25252020140506121346.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-M-IR-lm2-0w/U2kYtiqgnBI/AAAAAAAAHpg/0Top-D6dQNE/s500/Photo%25252020140506121346.jpg" id="blogsy-1399396653890.1604" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="934"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">dress: rainbow (old) // necklace, bracelet: gifts // sandals: Payless // sunglasses: target </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lB5OTw5l5k8/U2kY90eX7jI/AAAAAAAAHpo/9q_Fx6M2zSQ/s1600/Photo%25252020140506121346.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lB5OTw5l5k8/U2kY90eX7jI/AAAAAAAAHpo/9q_Fx6M2zSQ/s500/Photo%25252020140506121346.jpg" id="blogsy-1399396653903.2158" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="934"></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-pEAS7uD_PkQ/U2kZKmTi2oI/AAAAAAAAHpw/_zGcyuSiT7w/s1600/Photo%25252020140506121346.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-pEAS7uD_PkQ/U2kZKmTi2oI/AAAAAAAAHpw/_zGcyuSiT7w/s500/Photo%25252020140506121346.jpg" id="blogsy-1399396653916.784" class="aligncenter" width="700" height="934" alt=""></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"> I always forget how comfortable and easy maxi dresses are! I tend to overthink ensembles from time to time, I love to layer, guilty as charged. However, today I was feeling super lazy (and HOT, we are not turning on a/c just yet.... Yikes!) and this tie dyed little number stood out from the rest. A statement dress, easy necklace, comfy shoes and bim bam dressed. Pretty sure i bought this dress for my first Black Crowes concert and i love the memories associated with it! I really need to invest in some more of these babies for the upcoming summer weather. What do you reach for on a lazy day? </p><p> </p><p>PS My 80 year old grandmother, who suffers from dementia, took my photos today and it was the most fun for the both of us. :) enjoy your day!</p>Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-8089759981481227812014-05-05T09:02:00.001-05:002014-05-05T09:02:51.818-05:00Hola Monday! <p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="text-align: center; clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-lTjcrokKyaU/U2eZpTlIBdI/AAAAAAAAHoo/-hT_k4jghfM/s1600/Photo%25252020140505090055.jpg" target="_blank" style=""><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-lTjcrokKyaU/U2eZpTlIBdI/AAAAAAAAHoo/-hT_k4jghfM/s500/Photo%25252020140505090055.jpg" id="blogsy-1399298569768.4006" class="alignnone" alt="" width="700" height="934"></a></div><div class="separator" style="text-align: center; clear: both;">black pants: h&m // tank top: dots // scarf: F21 // flats: Nine West // cardigan: Lauren by Ralph Lauren // fringe bag: target // ring & bracelet: gifts </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFgcunRjYhpP8GIYDgI2-MK87Kqy_2t6rO6WCQaYmInGVv9oxfSit9qYezccoyKoGO2NtJEBjeeZgMvHLVXEyBnENmmuRMJd22D8r4ryzkiAhZuxSS7HZs_PHwABcJ01D-VnnLKg2uEqt/s1600/Photo%25252020140505090055.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFgcunRjYhpP8GIYDgI2-MK87Kqy_2t6rO6WCQaYmInGVv9oxfSit9qYezccoyKoGO2NtJEBjeeZgMvHLVXEyBnENmmuRMJd22D8r4ryzkiAhZuxSS7HZs_PHwABcJ01D-VnnLKg2uEqt/s500/Photo%25252020140505090055.jpg" id="blogsy-1399298569730.0798" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="934"></a></div><div class="separator" style="text-align: center; clear: both;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi50n7Y6sk9ovzavT9eJb7wlOwNPJYmV5nTfmlVhVuV2rJvyz7YC55ZZkqoQcvraf9xp_PMvl7OBDV0DLKlLSPeBO7x8hYgcEIsU3BhE4tANF2J1lSp_J607O9T0me70o49LS3iMYgFAv40/s1600/Photo%25252020140505090055.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi50n7Y6sk9ovzavT9eJb7wlOwNPJYmV5nTfmlVhVuV2rJvyz7YC55ZZkqoQcvraf9xp_PMvl7OBDV0DLKlLSPeBO7x8hYgcEIsU3BhE4tANF2J1lSp_J607O9T0me70o49LS3iMYgFAv40/s500/Photo%25252020140505090055.jpg" id="blogsy-1399298569754.7412" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="934"></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggN6sILAkXRLWovjr89OHxzLKwo9OJrcKIxTSBcy_swPt2il9QluW_0rmGCHSJjjwOM6_c7T2dbg8OL3EvFfJdai2lJN1JZBGItbiKRyd5HIQrVVJ75E_lBzaVYd69p75XlivXRB0TWAqV/s1600/Photo%25252020140505090055.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggN6sILAkXRLWovjr89OHxzLKwo9OJrcKIxTSBcy_swPt2il9QluW_0rmGCHSJjjwOM6_c7T2dbg8OL3EvFfJdai2lJN1JZBGItbiKRyd5HIQrVVJ75E_lBzaVYd69p75XlivXRB0TWAqV/s500/Photo%25252020140505090055.jpg" id="blogsy-1399298569742.6152" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="934"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFTXwe5YbgvIpf6s-cv2JdxewT-7pLpvqjET-te1cdrkE5ONZSItb833lthJ55boqi1vPrjfJsgEmYYQYh3hKjIrfrgoLCq74SlzRzPnM_-NXudbdbsRr_CG_dXC-Ch_fcStuqi-PJ6z8p/s1600/Photo%25252020140505090055.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFTXwe5YbgvIpf6s-cv2JdxewT-7pLpvqjET-te1cdrkE5ONZSItb833lthJ55boqi1vPrjfJsgEmYYQYh3hKjIrfrgoLCq74SlzRzPnM_-NXudbdbsRr_CG_dXC-Ch_fcStuqi-PJ6z8p/s500/Photo%25252020140505090055.jpg" id="blogsy-1399298569686.4768" class="aligncenter" width="700" height="934" alt=""></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"> Most weeks there is nothing worse than a Monday. But a Monday that follows an intense weekend music festival and a heartbreaking losing game of your favorite sports team probably takes the cake. I guess Mexican food and margaritas are the consolation prize. My pattern mixing was inspired by Cinco de Mayo festiveness. I think every day is a perfect time to celebrate with a marg or two, but I am always down for a holiday! Hope your weekends were swell!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Adiós Monday! </span></p><p> </p>Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-68154223866151730602014-05-02T07:00:00.000-05:002014-05-02T07:00:04.044-05:00Among The Wildflowers<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbJryKr3SaxI0xcWpOfu1iuvsY6TFhgl5auoidKcg8XNFN1-PhXfoRmmiUGkGVJu9nW8lRIMBFN_5RUJ2k0bjJtOxXgPRXHCLYKvGX2YKTBEMduqx2k3JcbgzJUFSpXL-fqao7DpqvcOK/s1600/Photo%25252020140501133905.jpg" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbJryKr3SaxI0xcWpOfu1iuvsY6TFhgl5auoidKcg8XNFN1-PhXfoRmmiUGkGVJu9nW8lRIMBFN_5RUJ2k0bjJtOxXgPRXHCLYKvGX2YKTBEMduqx2k3JcbgzJUFSpXL-fqao7DpqvcOK/s500/Photo%25252020140501133905.jpg" id="blogsy-1398969696447.4941" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="934"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">maxi dress: Ross // knit top: tj maxx // belt: lane bryant // clutch: iPad case from Target // booties: barefoot tess // sunglasses: target</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oCjbw2VeRqQ/U2KU_T7H_XI/AAAAAAAAHoA/GS9oX4_Krh4/s1600/Photo%25252020140501133905.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oCjbw2VeRqQ/U2KU_T7H_XI/AAAAAAAAHoA/GS9oX4_Krh4/s500/Photo%25252020140501133905.jpg" id="blogsy-1398969696409.9878" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="934"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8nvTqv_B5oF7_3-EjMV5aK70You0t6tPZs1g2QhyphenhyphenWMTN0Lf7Lg-ROi-vAxWzuhDBBf2UfDYFpyyrpAV7YQ-9vONUdGmufn3xocCZNmxdCxkfBeXIGiASXydYUv2wux3PNs078rm1Py7ti/s1600/Photo%25252020140501133905.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8nvTqv_B5oF7_3-EjMV5aK70You0t6tPZs1g2QhyphenhyphenWMTN0Lf7Lg-ROi-vAxWzuhDBBf2UfDYFpyyrpAV7YQ-9vONUdGmufn3xocCZNmxdCxkfBeXIGiASXydYUv2wux3PNs078rm1Py7ti/s500/Photo%25252020140501133905.jpg" id="blogsy-1398969696417.5464" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="934"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAj0dSrNKvCesiwmirUaBUNYgP45nVy7ObG7oHbQFDeR7tL3LxvSNgc3j1qwPUof0W3V0gj93XPUoOfGrQUtdfg4aa-6Cm4MUBTLDaUQvXRBLZQ-3DbLODkkvAlzypg8i5WrIU5feIVhW/s1600/Photo%25252020140501133905.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAj0dSrNKvCesiwmirUaBUNYgP45nVy7ObG7oHbQFDeR7tL3LxvSNgc3j1qwPUof0W3V0gj93XPUoOfGrQUtdfg4aa-6Cm4MUBTLDaUQvXRBLZQ-3DbLODkkvAlzypg8i5WrIU5feIVhW/s500/Photo%25252020140501133905.jpg" id="blogsy-1398969696445.3037" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="934"></a></div><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDDtbUP9K6m7KOAGY8W8QTCWlDwJZdM70WTZ0Oc7icLJvl-TV_MkEuiQ7NKjSJ-FGfyvGG4N6a52qpIWnIS8P7qqvOKM-pX5y6i7h4nPS5sKkknMYhSlrOffLB243XAOPxqq1J6kNiFzN/s1600/Photo%25252020140501133905.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDDtbUP9K6m7KOAGY8W8QTCWlDwJZdM70WTZ0Oc7icLJvl-TV_MkEuiQ7NKjSJ-FGfyvGG4N6a52qpIWnIS8P7qqvOKM-pX5y6i7h4nPS5sKkknMYhSlrOffLB243XAOPxqq1J6kNiFzN/s500/Photo%25252020140501133905.jpg" id="blogsy-1398969696404.0955" class="aligncenter" width="700" height="934" alt=""></a></div><p>As a kid, my favorite colors were purple and yellow. Much like the weeds that grow all Spring long. I always call them flowers because they're so beautiful, I hate the weed connotation. Trust me, my allergies are the only reason I don't straight up frolic in the fields and Maria Von Trapp spin my heart out. </p><p> I'm pretty obsessed with how this haphazard outfit came together. We have had a "cold" front the past few days and I needed to layer up last minute. Being a tall gal, the length of this dress looks weird with flats so I threw on the black wedge booties to toughen up the look. I'm especially fond of layering over maxis here lately. </p><p> Have a merry weekend, my little chickens. It feels fabulous to be back. </p><p> </p>Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-239891755750202842014-05-01T07:00:00.001-05:002014-05-01T07:00:10.856-05:00Quite A Pattern<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iS5gX3YNu5c/U2FEFCthPpI/AAAAAAAAHm4/au6ipkJCbjk/s1600/Photo%25252020140430134216.jpg" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iS5gX3YNu5c/U2FEFCthPpI/AAAAAAAAHm4/au6ipkJCbjk/s500/Photo%25252020140430134216.jpg" id="blogsy-1398884472601.5742" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="867"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">dress: rainbow // clutch: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/enitdesign" target="_blank" title="">ENiT design</a> // wedges : target (last season) // bracelets: target, accessory auctions</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R9UvLioX0uw/U2FEPRAINNI/AAAAAAAAHnQ/XVDnUAJNZ9o/s1600/Photo%25252020140430134216.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R9UvLioX0uw/U2FEPRAINNI/AAAAAAAAHnQ/XVDnUAJNZ9o/s700/Photo%25252020140430134216.jpg" id="blogsy-1398884472641.6902" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="988"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NifReLz0Qmg/U2FIYbpbqOI/AAAAAAAAHng/pRnO67VAKfw/s1600/Photo%25252020140430140038.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-NifReLz0Qmg/U2FIYbpbqOI/AAAAAAAAHng/pRnO67VAKfw/s500/Photo%25252020140430140038.jpg" id="blogsy-1398884472693.0237" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="700" height="934"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zoNXIwMYrC8/U2FIdUDEBrI/AAAAAAAAHno/KF9Pc-vt80s/s1600/Photo%25252020140430140038.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zoNXIwMYrC8/U2FIdUDEBrI/AAAAAAAAHno/KF9Pc-vt80s/s500/Photo%25252020140430140038.jpg" id="blogsy-1398884472678.9646" class="aligncenter" width="700" height="934" alt=""></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="text-align: center; clear: both;"><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"><font size="5">I wanted to name this post, <em>The Bitch is Back</em>, but as much as I love Elton, I was slightly afraid of the google searches I would pop up in. But the sentiment is still here! Breaking back in to the swing of things with one of the most happy patterns! One of my merrymaking secrets is that I frequent some cheeeeap fast fashion stores. Rainbow is a bit like F21, but a more urban vibe. You have to dig through some club clothes to find a gem, but they are there. And for $19.99, the search is worth it! I love the one of a kind pieces I have added to my closet from places like Rainbow.</font></span></div><p style="text-align: center;"><font size="5">Also, any excuse to tie in my red wedges and I will take it. </font></p><p style="text-align: center;"><font size="5">I hope May treats all of my little chickens well. Thanks for the comments and emails during my absence. It definitely boosts my merriment to know that I was missed. Spring is in full swing in Memphis, so I hope to bring you nonstop merrymaking. </font></p><p style="text-align: center;"><font size="5">Xo. </font></p><p> </p>Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-23182914538414508162014-04-30T13:46:00.000-05:002014-04-30T13:46:16.071-05:00It's Gonna Be May<img alt="" id="id_c0f1_1848_5531_5038" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cYnr6z7x26E/U16kpdJfJeI/AAAAAAAAHlE/0JRhRTwYT5U/%25255BUNSET%25255D.jpg" style="height: 710px; margin: 4px; width: 710px;" title="" /><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Absence makes the heart grow fonder. I think we can all agree on that. I took a month break from blogging, at first on accident, but then I decided to see the month out for good measure. I would never want M of M to be a place of forced posts and boring content. I just wasn't feeling it this past month. For the past three spring/summers I tend to fade in and out. If the inspiration is not there, I don't want to just follow through the motions. I think after a month off (and now that we have somewhat consistent weather,) I'm ready to jump back in to it! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also, I'm blonde. Eeeeeek, right? I love it. Change is a good thing. </div>
<div>
Can you believe it is already almost May?! </div>
<div>
I think May will bring plenty of exciting things (like a Caribbean trip!!!!) and the more merriment, the better. </div>
<div>
Xo</div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-19556213441633786152014-03-21T07:00:00.000-05:002014-03-21T07:00:09.776-05:00Favorite Friday Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Have you ever made a brand new purchase, let's say an oversize, striped t-shirt dress, and then you find such complete happiness with it that you find it almost impossible to not wear it every other day?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yeah... me neither.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This dress sometimes gives the appearance that I cut a neck hole in a bed sheet and ran out of the house, but it feels like a huge t-shirt and I just can't find an excuse to not wear it almost every day. I've worn it like over half the days since I bought it. #noshame</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And if you can't wear your favorite dress on a Friday, then when can you?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Have a merry weekend. XO</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5xyAVReSkdxQnxCVX2CW78Wn3FYBri2A0tx1WF8fgFaI1NExhodamq1q51ZdV-MSLivcLTlyntxHdZZ-BMMiJFatixEAP72gT_wCrhq98uwSBFLtBKTCCKQaK6aBML7RA3m7d3bMCjut/s1600/3-21-14.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5xyAVReSkdxQnxCVX2CW78Wn3FYBri2A0tx1WF8fgFaI1NExhodamq1q51ZdV-MSLivcLTlyntxHdZZ-BMMiJFatixEAP72gT_wCrhq98uwSBFLtBKTCCKQaK6aBML7RA3m7d3bMCjut/s1600/3-21-14.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
dress: h&m+ <a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/15819?article=15819-C">(here)</a> // necklace: F21 // booties: barefoot tess</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu1CqRJ-g2Bcn_wltOdPIkPrUJUEtRqHYeI3XYJmwi_q5fzQMHFmiuQZJunepVoV9aabiDvQayKXZdsu_p_-jEOoJpRG4HKI93OSo8SImXksYs5tK3AWWsPPiUePBxGUkmtYXanYCKxo-1/s1600/3-21-14.3.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu1CqRJ-g2Bcn_wltOdPIkPrUJUEtRqHYeI3XYJmwi_q5fzQMHFmiuQZJunepVoV9aabiDvQayKXZdsu_p_-jEOoJpRG4HKI93OSo8SImXksYs5tK3AWWsPPiUePBxGUkmtYXanYCKxo-1/s1600/3-21-14.3.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixHlWhYdprJglSQ_B4XU498niRkA54OPcfYXNUX82CUXrrNIQJxmMHjRdxF5Ofm35z_2Q2QrImVc2CibFKg6AhhnnEGKPvUed81rgBeRDSRJxr9dyklcb3SFdvdIwsQ8tugOIYkWfrsFbZ/s1600/3-21-14.2.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixHlWhYdprJglSQ_B4XU498niRkA54OPcfYXNUX82CUXrrNIQJxmMHjRdxF5Ofm35z_2Q2QrImVc2CibFKg6AhhnnEGKPvUed81rgBeRDSRJxr9dyklcb3SFdvdIwsQ8tugOIYkWfrsFbZ/s1600/3-21-14.2.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-42308265117295233212014-03-19T07:00:00.000-05:002014-03-19T07:00:11.439-05:00Sunshine + Threads<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPVZgqi_vVFysSRhvz9IHj0Yqgdfbriv7w-CnmQff621EYxog5sgzFFqsC9qaw_sd-9MmCLvgNojkLNsn70g-pl3QRgKKYpX2gjChCNyfe6Q2AcnDgioCWbGQ8T9zUbs5pW_cJ1NsEK9e/s1600/3-19-14.3.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPVZgqi_vVFysSRhvz9IHj0Yqgdfbriv7w-CnmQff621EYxog5sgzFFqsC9qaw_sd-9MmCLvgNojkLNsn70g-pl3QRgKKYpX2gjChCNyfe6Q2AcnDgioCWbGQ8T9zUbs5pW_cJ1NsEK9e/s1600/3-19-14.3.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
vest (old): old navy // dress, as skirt: cynthia rowley // boots: target // coral boyfriend tee: target // </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
fringe purse: target <a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-supply-co-tote-handbag-with-fringe-black/-/A-14955694?ref=tgt_adv_XSG10001&AFID=Google_PLA_df&LNM=%7C14955694&CPNG=Accessories&kpid=14955694&LID=PA&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=14955694&gclid=COaMuuXgtrwCFWRk7AodHSQAOQ">(here ON SALE)</a> // necklace: gift // bracelet: <a href="http://theshineproject.storenvy.com/">THREADS</a> // sunglasses: target <a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-gradient-brown-lens-sunglasses-tortoise-frame/-/A-14108102">(here ON SALE)</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvLJKjP3Zz8-ZG6PcNG9RyyfULVDWypTYu2I1NmtUelJKAfJjyZxTTCSqe6G3Vcz6XYQKIDY7ndTWnuwfbG0vWLkgxXG_0seDGlH78_Fvk2YwNE0crKzG7pTi0zBeUOaX7c0FrvM1a2www/s1600/3-19-14.2.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvLJKjP3Zz8-ZG6PcNG9RyyfULVDWypTYu2I1NmtUelJKAfJjyZxTTCSqe6G3Vcz6XYQKIDY7ndTWnuwfbG0vWLkgxXG_0seDGlH78_Fvk2YwNE0crKzG7pTi0zBeUOaX7c0FrvM1a2www/s1600/3-19-14.2.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB8QVi1xHrQyET-yM-m6QMlLvRyCv6JoG5YQjmUf_mkYQjtBmkcfr93ZpjXOhjEIICtxfSL_wUsEuImHvTffLjAp3XVuGg89AILYfdAJKSKELWCfhMMDToc2rgdOxMTyuJbl8KAgIo7ion/s1600/3-19-14.5.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB8QVi1xHrQyET-yM-m6QMlLvRyCv6JoG5YQjmUf_mkYQjtBmkcfr93ZpjXOhjEIICtxfSL_wUsEuImHvTffLjAp3XVuGg89AILYfdAJKSKELWCfhMMDToc2rgdOxMTyuJbl8KAgIo7ion/s1600/3-19-14.5.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Jxqr3udvSS_tU8cWh_5JsD4PK8j_VoUoBkWEaq1EpRSRblLFj9jkmLCSXoDSirdK_rAu4PxaR2Zrfj06gEvTfmSdmU7pCEEAOjj8__kteKvA3tvufI38soyoKzYdX0ZtUOMPI1BUOyes/s1600/3-19-14.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Jxqr3udvSS_tU8cWh_5JsD4PK8j_VoUoBkWEaq1EpRSRblLFj9jkmLCSXoDSirdK_rAu4PxaR2Zrfj06gEvTfmSdmU7pCEEAOjj8__kteKvA3tvufI38soyoKzYdX0ZtUOMPI1BUOyes/s1600/3-19-14.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGEIRB-tevqxXoTQVWLXts1pf3lTCY29wZlFTDP_n-Hli0L4eutk0vGVSluyAESzeCTwbhwp8RIg5acgJNJteFgxmc3zPt2GVfZArN8gXyjn1BawOwbfs8_KkW9JQCNS5RgUSPg7nAkT2/s1600/3-19-14.4.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGEIRB-tevqxXoTQVWLXts1pf3lTCY29wZlFTDP_n-Hli0L4eutk0vGVSluyAESzeCTwbhwp8RIg5acgJNJteFgxmc3zPt2GVfZArN8gXyjn1BawOwbfs8_KkW9JQCNS5RgUSPg7nAkT2/s1600/3-19-14.4.jpg.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy Wednesday! No really, it is! My camera and my body are both back and in fighting form. I think it has a lot to do with the fantastic sunshine that finally popped out and showed itself! I'm recharged, rocking my trusty vest, and a new fabulous bracelet. I shared this adorable, dainty bracelet on my <a href="http://instagram.com/missbekah">Instagram</a> the other day, but I'm here to share a little bit more about <a href="http://theshineproject.storenvy.com/">THREADS</a> and the fantastic story behind it! I've been following Ashley and <a href="http://www.myshineproject.com/">The Shine Project </a>for years now, but more recently she has started this jewelry endeavor. THREADS employs at risk youth to make jewelry and earn a fair wage to help the students pay for their school to better their future. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is some more info about them, from their website:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://theshineproject.storenvy.com/"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRjHieFGsGpGPNn0XXPs4x9JetmAj2bjHPoEXZyqmLZSdGlbTCH0Y20ULrFVKCWcY3hjfZoQ22aTGqTYPrhsVbEBAqK_frRleK5vH4mTSmUX-6VFctOH0RCKfwzA1WVUkX6YxBy7awoLtk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-18+at+8.45.11+PM.png" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYF6Hd9H3PskffIjx5KtrBN3wJYo8QncojEU1-GAa2-2swyrzUPBoqyQM5qId_XbxL2wEyMvQSII-hEeltL9L5Xmd32J26tNlUpjpUOONYJ7HWE7YAzuHyFvuLI4zsAxlkx_v24tXxJrUj/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-18+at+8.45.31+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYF6Hd9H3PskffIjx5KtrBN3wJYo8QncojEU1-GAa2-2swyrzUPBoqyQM5qId_XbxL2wEyMvQSII-hEeltL9L5Xmd32J26tNlUpjpUOONYJ7HWE7YAzuHyFvuLI4zsAxlkx_v24tXxJrUj/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-18+at+8.45.31+PM.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As a blogger, I love getting behind companies that I truly believe in! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://theshineproject.storenvy.com/">THREADS </a>is offering a special discount code to my readers. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Enter MATTERS10 at checkout for 10% of your purchase!</b></span> There are tons of gorgeous styles (and necklaces!!) to choose from, <a href="http://theshineproject.storenvy.com/">check them out her</a>e. Purchasing something beautiful and giving back at the same time is truly merry! Xo</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-14459965462507350912014-03-18T10:07:00.000-05:002014-03-18T10:07:05.416-05:00Swim Suit Search<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRGJB9lse2fRZKqm_-rzrPNyaWJzHhZuneM4Drs048A4AJbCbih0Wk_Kp_Y6GI0mbgPRFlyD4d1JSXm_jOPQi59-a8DoSlXGtCBxCXMMhA7b5EN4l0yU01_-L0CMndHviTaTIxMD4ekMSG/s1600/swim+suits.jpg.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRGJB9lse2fRZKqm_-rzrPNyaWJzHhZuneM4Drs048A4AJbCbih0Wk_Kp_Y6GI0mbgPRFlyD4d1JSXm_jOPQi59-a8DoSlXGtCBxCXMMhA7b5EN4l0yU01_-L0CMndHviTaTIxMD4ekMSG/s1600/swim+suits.jpg.jpg.jpg" height="662" width="840" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In two month's time, I will find myself on a beach in the Caribbean. What! So it is time to take this swim suit search seriously. Try saying that ten times fast! I have always been a fan of the retro style maillot and I love the ruffles! These are my top faves. What styles are you reaching for this summer? I wanted to find some fringed tops, but I will settle for the adorable fringed coverup!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Shop my finds here:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-CURVE-Exclusive-Swimsuit-In-Graphic-Print/12qq39/?iid=3623399&cid=9583&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Multi&mporgp=L0Fzb3MtQ3VydmUvQXNvcy1DdXJ2ZS1FeGNsdXNpdmUtU3dpbXN1aXQtSW4tR3JhcGhpYy1QcmludC9Qcm9kLw.."><span style="font-size: large;">Graphic Print Suit</span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.alwaysforme.com/plussize-2pctankini-815521.html"><span style="font-size: large;">Eyelet Twist Bandeau</span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.alwaysforme.com/bathing-suits-plus-sizes-co5342-11x.html"><span style="font-size: large;">Ruffle Tankini</span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-CURVE-Exclusive-Beach-Dress-In-Letter-Print/11w1li/?iid=3582181&cid=9583&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Multi&mporgp=L0FTT1MtQ3VydmUvQVNPUy1DVVJWRS1FeGNsdXNpdmUtQmVhY2gtRHJlc3MtSW4tTGV0dGVyLVByaW50L1Byb2Qv"><span style="font-size: large;">Beach Dress</span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/onepiece-swimwear/radiant-in-the-rays-one-piece-in-plus-size"><span style="font-size: large;">Radiant Rays Halter</span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.swimsuitsforall.com/Black-and-white-Tie-Dye-Racer-Back-Fringe-Dress?p=5243"><span style="font-size: large;">Tie Dye Coverup Dress</span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/onepiece-swimwear/coupe-of-tea-one-piece-in-nautical-dots-plus-size"><span style="font-size: large;">Nautical Dots Suit</span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Spotted some fab suits? Let me know about them in the comments! Xo</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-85625077408013614742014-03-17T11:45:00.000-05:002014-03-17T11:45:29.944-05:00Out of Practice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha7Lg0lAIwzp9Y2zCxS9lzJrQMoyNwWB-jSWOpFHCsv45fRO7eJpZXHlH4jZ2GU1mLHjyJ3mzOQzSadXuVSLoMKLQ7GakMX8lJ6ibHnRuEUkoNX9htxodzHa92qJeSOayzo8YZ1mAI-Hj-/s1600/3-17-14.2.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha7Lg0lAIwzp9Y2zCxS9lzJrQMoyNwWB-jSWOpFHCsv45fRO7eJpZXHlH4jZ2GU1mLHjyJ3mzOQzSadXuVSLoMKLQ7GakMX8lJ6ibHnRuEUkoNX9htxodzHa92qJeSOayzo8YZ1mAI-Hj-/s1600/3-17-14.2.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="812" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
blouse: tj maxx // blazer: thrifted // necklace: accessory auctions // </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
leggings: dots // boots (not pictured): nine west</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I'm still posting today even though every one of my pictures turned out horrible! It seems I have been on "vacation" for so long that my camera decided to boycott reality today. Things were unexplainably blurry and confused. I don't blame the camera really, I was feeling quite the same way when I awoke. The weather did not help. I thought I retired my riding boots for the season, after the first 70 degree patio day, but in true winter tradition... it's ain't over yet. All of that to say, I missed posting so much that we are just going to power through this. Plus, that's a lot of holiday cheer displayed and it just cannot go to waste. I hope the weekend treated all of the merrymakers well, and although I never got my green beer, I had more Irish car bombs than I wish to admit. I'm calling today a rough draft and hoping for a better performance tomorrow. <br />
<b>Monday is just Tuesday's dress rehearsal.</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-34845735493909176022014-03-11T12:25:00.001-05:002014-03-11T13:55:35.147-05:00I'm Aliiiiiiive!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just a quick check in, I am not still in New Orleans, lost among the discarded beads and empty daiquiri cups. I've been home for almost a week, which is about the amount of time that it takes to recover from such a trip. This week is Spring Break, so it is another slow week where I will rarely change from <strike>pajamas</strike> lounge cloooothes and won't bother to get up from the couch between catch-up episodes of my favorite television shows. Except maybe to get a Kleenex during this episode of Parenthood...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here are some of my favorite merrymaking highlights from my Mardi Gras trip!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I hope to get back to regularly scheduled programming soon, xo!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhskvVFL2GXvvydnaJEEublg6mhzkeLkym7RnFVqkkmdtbHwT9-OkHqqOF01gYgtV5H3y4_28jbo8SkUEHjRBGrmkubgip4KNOc5VbSJUIgHdfNSHvsaNy2Y6cTbYpy7cOfD9hMuB2v-Y6i/s1600/postNOLA.png.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhskvVFL2GXvvydnaJEEublg6mhzkeLkym7RnFVqkkmdtbHwT9-OkHqqOF01gYgtV5H3y4_28jbo8SkUEHjRBGrmkubgip4KNOc5VbSJUIgHdfNSHvsaNy2Y6cTbYpy7cOfD9hMuB2v-Y6i/s1600/postNOLA.png.png.png" height="840" width="778" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Best times, good drinks, and great people always makes for a fabulous trip.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now... back to the Netflix binge.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-11733882887608063152014-03-03T07:00:00.000-06:002014-03-03T07:00:02.552-06:00This Week...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghxdLerjuzyyZm_7m8BeSz8gviWn376L-XTmNLTWT0IpQZefQDHTvlElxy5jXYMig3DsyZAQdA1PnQzJ-KarRV7XV0B16eSYS_suIF-a4nj1Ak3qBtj0fjmJCjgehMZAdj9cjvyRFk9PqL/s1600/OOT.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghxdLerjuzyyZm_7m8BeSz8gviWn376L-XTmNLTWT0IpQZefQDHTvlElxy5jXYMig3DsyZAQdA1PnQzJ-KarRV7XV0B16eSYS_suIF-a4nj1Ak3qBtj0fjmJCjgehMZAdj9cjvyRFk9PqL/s1600/OOT.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="648" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My fabulous chickens, I am on vacation this week in the Big Easy, catching beads & eating gumbo. In my absence, please enjoy a frozen cocktail beverage and a karaoke tune or two. Stay tuned for a recap and tons of photos from NOLA upon my return. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(Someone stockpile the Gatorade & Advil for me, dolls)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Follow along with the Mardi Gras merrymaking on <a href="http://instagram.com/missbekah">Instagram.</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
XO</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-89099596018576479082014-02-28T07:00:00.000-06:002014-02-28T07:00:11.885-06:00Floral Fridays<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtM1cSoRHQwIKkOG1d3bzbdkZdlRG4ZVM591580_PKEBb-ShumZznNVY4kF1VfXi5TlYSxtCWpAn3moViYmH3DuG61W7HTc7RFEjvXdwnzAsKTGwhChkjFTt5m5ib7QKoHIwL3RjIYsgKi/s1600/2-28-14.3.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtM1cSoRHQwIKkOG1d3bzbdkZdlRG4ZVM591580_PKEBb-ShumZznNVY4kF1VfXi5TlYSxtCWpAn3moViYmH3DuG61W7HTc7RFEjvXdwnzAsKTGwhChkjFTt5m5ib7QKoHIwL3RjIYsgKi/s1600/2-28-14.3.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="608" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
dress: american rag // wedges: payless // clutch: jun lee (local) // bracelet: gift</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrBwaU2w0oVgzEAhYVeLGu2BTLTgBmq2_NyJMioANdz5r8qzTnkZ6khhpiihTAV7Mf8cxTwT-l37mhkVqgGT9VdDaju9HNA28fcEB7OczjW60FO6nbq0ThXkBP6rVayoQD6E0qhctqXbGM/s1600/2-28-14.2.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrBwaU2w0oVgzEAhYVeLGu2BTLTgBmq2_NyJMioANdz5r8qzTnkZ6khhpiihTAV7Mf8cxTwT-l37mhkVqgGT9VdDaju9HNA28fcEB7OczjW60FO6nbq0ThXkBP6rVayoQD6E0qhctqXbGM/s1600/2-28-14.2.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzkcJRYYnGWYN7dbSQtYtlO481hF8LwtiX-1cQEOUVlzOLGRbmrpkdSKoBZ4WGlfEdu7rI235zRqwcK6pk5a3uY2owKGD9QAY7WF-nFVR_FipTdmY1UyBblVyVfpg2tTeevAC10lbrhzAY/s1600/2-28-14.4.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzkcJRYYnGWYN7dbSQtYtlO481hF8LwtiX-1cQEOUVlzOLGRbmrpkdSKoBZ4WGlfEdu7rI235zRqwcK6pk5a3uY2owKGD9QAY7WF-nFVR_FipTdmY1UyBblVyVfpg2tTeevAC10lbrhzAY/s1600/2-28-14.4.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="670" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDEa7lYL9B7i7stmtj7mCPR0n2i96a6Ezq8D-UKs0v3QYudvg1FeA7ET5jvxA8uqIuC1M3-TIXb72L4AUYatJiomUdovxUY3IAAPr2jqo1zmrxBc_9coU9COpBBB-R9949meu1098MRAt3/s1600/2-28-14.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDEa7lYL9B7i7stmtj7mCPR0n2i96a6Ezq8D-UKs0v3QYudvg1FeA7ET5jvxA8uqIuC1M3-TIXb72L4AUYatJiomUdovxUY3IAAPr2jqo1zmrxBc_9coU9COpBBB-R9949meu1098MRAt3/s1600/2-28-14.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBNM6t9OSc-fQiH9RAzYebZq5e1C_IzClCoiq289f5ilFbhFqxf0Rj6NNq7R1KYscLVdZSZAeL0OH5ix6RZqGPReb6sCgr5puepRZ_eXVqq1JvCUMa_JHqXPdRACt1lOHV7FNclDo7vdAR/s1600/2-28-14.5.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBNM6t9OSc-fQiH9RAzYebZq5e1C_IzClCoiq289f5ilFbhFqxf0Rj6NNq7R1KYscLVdZSZAeL0OH5ix6RZqGPReb6sCgr5puepRZ_eXVqq1JvCUMa_JHqXPdRACt1lOHV7FNclDo7vdAR/s1600/2-28-14.5.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We made it folks! FRIDAY, FRIDAY, FRIDAY! And it surely is a celebrated accomplishment here at M of M, because I am on vacation starting tomorrow! I only mentioned it <strike>a few hundred million</strike> a few times but we are hitting the road to Mardi Gras. I'm focusing on hydrating and Vitamin C intake whilst twirling like a silly girl in this floral dress. Something about a good flower pattern and ruffles makes me act nine years old. February, I won't miss you too much and I'm honestly glad you're over. I'm mad about March and all the madness it has to offer me. See you next month, my little chickens! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-30410176642119597782014-02-27T07:00:00.000-06:002014-02-27T08:16:35.180-06:00Define Your Own Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidz4RtSxN-PDLo0-fyWPPklmlNdbj-dA4n-3nIbtcLAqGol0QffPZ8VqSsLx595xijYxvVOnNtm4AQzn6mg7lKDxPqfZ7EL1k-qoQaxgrBk1Q9Fy14FzUGfTOCmtt9aKAoxqRmJ0tRszN/s1600/defineyourown.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidz4RtSxN-PDLo0-fyWPPklmlNdbj-dA4n-3nIbtcLAqGol0QffPZ8VqSsLx595xijYxvVOnNtm4AQzn6mg7lKDxPqfZ7EL1k-qoQaxgrBk1Q9Fy14FzUGfTOCmtt9aKAoxqRmJ0tRszN/s1600/defineyourown.jpg.jpg" height="680" width="840" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">My friend and I were talking the other day about people we know. Everyone pretty much seemed to fit in to one of two categories. Even in these modern times, it seems like there are two broad stereotypes for women and relationships in their 20s and 30s. The ones who marry young and start popping out kids, and are very family focused. Then there are the ones who focus on their career, take a little time for themselves, and maybe for other reasons are not married. It's apparent in pop culture, movies, the people YOU went to high school with, and it's the relative norm. I don't think it's fair. This got my wheels turning. Spouse? Job? </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Was I really <b>defining</b> others on this ONE little factor of life?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have been like 3 different people since high school, heck, even since college, so I can't fathom having been attached to the same person for the last ten years of that roller coaster from hell. I can't even imagine my life any other way. I have learned life lessons at every speed bump to better myself.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I always knew what I wanted to be from the time I was in kindergarten. (Well for a short time, I wanted to be Shania Twain, but after that.) I wanted to teach kindergarten. I had a few hiccups on the college path, focused on some different things, but I came out with a teacher-esque job before I even received my bachelor's. Ding ding ding! I thought I had it all figured out. It worked out perfectly, and so I knew I had made the right decision.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUiaIuv6vUnM24-xR3Iz9tERe5yIJZyU3lZwNWPwZJHB-UXfsvy11PkYzBd5zldwAu32L5x6dHCQb0Q80YQVPo6zDW11n_-vCByVOTCt_sBo8EJuB5kzd_MPdG9NFAbUOlY8ATfyR1JYao/s1600/c12fb4fd5e352a43c5fb3c2206d7d50d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUiaIuv6vUnM24-xR3Iz9tERe5yIJZyU3lZwNWPwZJHB-UXfsvy11PkYzBd5zldwAu32L5x6dHCQb0Q80YQVPo6zDW11n_-vCByVOTCt_sBo8EJuB5kzd_MPdG9NFAbUOlY8ATfyR1JYao/s1600/c12fb4fd5e352a43c5fb3c2206d7d50d.jpg" height="830" width="840" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Fast forward a few years later and things totally changed. I wasn't miserable, but I wasn't happy. I was being stifled creatively and I couldn't even see how unhappy I truly was. Blessings come in disguise because even though it wasn't completely my decision... Moving on was the best thing to happen to me.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Uh oh, life detour.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At first, I was freaked out. I spent seven years at one place working my way up. When you wanted something since you were five, people wonder about you when you just drop off that path. "You'll find something soon, you were meant to do this!" they would say. But I didn't want something similar. I wanted a change. I craved something new. The problem was that I didn't WHAT I really wanted. So enter the quarter life crisis.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ZHSicHmr5KZNExq0CFdGIXITlj0OlRurUCZ4lvdPMnQWEqoPjshr8WZb0aagUb-u9SQEuo_373ahXQRJot86p2R6qs1dI7IJ0iXnoQA1SnXq0v_zn1O_u7LBNT4ut__SbuzQ3pFFAySb/s1600/4df72a1942011030750c1187152a1983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ZHSicHmr5KZNExq0CFdGIXITlj0OlRurUCZ4lvdPMnQWEqoPjshr8WZb0aagUb-u9SQEuo_373ahXQRJot86p2R6qs1dI7IJ0iXnoQA1SnXq0v_zn1O_u7LBNT4ut__SbuzQ3pFFAySb/s1600/4df72a1942011030750c1187152a1983.jpg" height="840" width="840" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
OMG. I'm getting wrinkles and I don't have the bearded husband (he would totally have a beard.) No cute little house or red-headed babies. And the one thing I did all on my own (my degree, career, my job) was indefinitely on pause. <b>Where do I stake my pride? What do I have to be proud of?</b> I never suffered from lack of self-confidence. You probably won't meet many bloggers who do. I've always believed that the way I was raised and encouraged made me the strong and independent person I am today. (Points to Donna & Gene for that one.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZYWb1w8QEUSfYtgRF6Vpwt-WDfDBxWa10mbhtoh1x8PjEQufDaZV3WWw_M-0zjNvb1ug1humHXYAbJFL_tocpv2TpXEUkBNp51ncsEqoE4oHTRvCBMDSK1BJndM99ae7Za9LyLCys8eP/s1600/f271b5c44a36b83bbc7b5c0415733996.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZYWb1w8QEUSfYtgRF6Vpwt-WDfDBxWa10mbhtoh1x8PjEQufDaZV3WWw_M-0zjNvb1ug1humHXYAbJFL_tocpv2TpXEUkBNp51ncsEqoE4oHTRvCBMDSK1BJndM99ae7Za9LyLCys8eP/s1600/f271b5c44a36b83bbc7b5c0415733996.jpg" height="840" width="830" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Why on Earth in 2014 are people still staking their claim in what other people see in them? I am proud of myself and what I've accomplished--even if it didn't turn out the way I drew it in a picture on career day in grade school. Plus, I always drew myself with bangs. <b>WTF.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To the type of person that sums me up as a single, 25 year old, basically unemployed resident of TN. But hey, that's not me, that's just my tax return. We are all so much more than that. Even if you're married, single, in school, divorced, jobless, living with your parents, single mother/father, anything... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>You are you.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Even when people ask me what I've been up to, I won't be ashamed for a second to tell them that I am still figuring it out. On my own. I'm going to continue being me. Unapologetically. I mentioned in my last post like this, <a href="http://www.mattersofmerrymaking.com/2014/02/blogging-love-inspiration-merrymaking.html">here</a>, that I wanted to get deeper and post more words from my head and my heart. Not just my closet. So again, thanks for reading, thanks for being encouraging, and thanks for being YOU. Someone out there is a better person because you're in their life. <b>You're a pretty big deal. </b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0oT4RaLejwxgBxyalBd-qtX7ctZNDmjLjvHCHhpixxwII-54lSl9lnkfTR6dL-yDD4ToadpZDtC0pH5M5QzmtfvzzdJ8X81ByTTpP-GyU42c622DlKoFLsFX8lY5pdeNRSW1kwv31ttrf/s1600/d721869595af8788616d6e013e614899.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0oT4RaLejwxgBxyalBd-qtX7ctZNDmjLjvHCHhpixxwII-54lSl9lnkfTR6dL-yDD4ToadpZDtC0pH5M5QzmtfvzzdJ8X81ByTTpP-GyU42c622DlKoFLsFX8lY5pdeNRSW1kwv31ttrf/s1600/d721869595af8788616d6e013e614899.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo cred:</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mattersofmerrymaking.com/">one </a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/84442561737550710/">two</a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/84442561737550652/"> three </a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/84442561737550715/">four </a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/84442561737550929/">five</a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-27980905257126625012014-02-26T07:00:00.000-06:002014-02-26T07:00:03.045-06:00Bekah and the Real Boots<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihVQ6JtwMXGXqXuInue7PX1rSfaB5XaP1I5Wf4xP5lw3m6BkxxcpvEEq0iLPfKrcIKryp_tYXEiusB8TY82ZS1iXZSl6yb-snabiSF0LNauJ3UGrirpMMa8oSIgQdpJZ7HklN07XOg_6rN/s1600/2-26-14.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihVQ6JtwMXGXqXuInue7PX1rSfaB5XaP1I5Wf4xP5lw3m6BkxxcpvEEq0iLPfKrcIKryp_tYXEiusB8TY82ZS1iXZSl6yb-snabiSF0LNauJ3UGrirpMMa8oSIgQdpJZ7HklN07XOg_6rN/s1600/2-26-14.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="670" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
leggings: h&m // top: riley & james // booties: torrid <a href="http://www.torrid.com/torrid/Ensemble/Top20Looks/Look03/Pointy+Toe+Cutout+Booties+Wide+Width-10087279.jsp">(here)</a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
// necklace: lydell nyc // clutch: navoh</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKCOGuibT7YLuGpHJb119WqLPZabQBoTYPDU5825DhyRvWo6WT_Q87R_nkaW3dlPEQ4NQUJWDkMytlHIu9MqHAjzAwqUd-bRa2efzxSTF0Sj0whABgnj8rXZ7gw0NsUHBsNd8xqZZCw-6Q/s1600/2-28-14.6.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKCOGuibT7YLuGpHJb119WqLPZabQBoTYPDU5825DhyRvWo6WT_Q87R_nkaW3dlPEQ4NQUJWDkMytlHIu9MqHAjzAwqUd-bRa2efzxSTF0Sj0whABgnj8rXZ7gw0NsUHBsNd8xqZZCw-6Q/s1600/2-28-14.6.jpg.jpg" height="690" width="840" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSW9UbV0KC0c8OUKFB4CFUXln25jjjERqv8XlETtXtI5wu5ucO04femRbukh0GLQLOZV9v6N2XDrB0MSYJdm-_DDGZnh_9GthP3kXvzomOdqr2eYdqOi0UW3b2hEjOGJ3T7et8wTvp-jlj/s1600/2-26-14.3.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSW9UbV0KC0c8OUKFB4CFUXln25jjjERqv8XlETtXtI5wu5ucO04femRbukh0GLQLOZV9v6N2XDrB0MSYJdm-_DDGZnh_9GthP3kXvzomOdqr2eYdqOi0UW3b2hEjOGJ3T7et8wTvp-jlj/s1600/2-26-14.3.jpg.jpg" height="680" width="840" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgY-AxfTn26Yq6Sa_6WWNEyUBkendHt6NDdKc1UrZE6YbB3e8dHTJ4mh6oYTnpiYX5wU5WAYJcd1edjFh5b01Lta5mT38C4qgGjcLTi7Bjt3NG7jkHloJ_cySVwDLnUcpmGKBFOP5rczpp/s1600/2-26-14.5.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgY-AxfTn26Yq6Sa_6WWNEyUBkendHt6NDdKc1UrZE6YbB3e8dHTJ4mh6oYTnpiYX5wU5WAYJcd1edjFh5b01Lta5mT38C4qgGjcLTi7Bjt3NG7jkHloJ_cySVwDLnUcpmGKBFOP5rczpp/s1600/2-26-14.5.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<br />
Have you ever felt a deep connection with something that will never return the affection? Like how some people love sweets, professional sports teams, or Ryan Gosling... I LOVE THIS BOOTS. I coveted them from first sight, even including them in my <a href="http://www.mattersofmerrymaking.com/2014/02/spring-wish-list.html">Spring wish list</a>. Over the weekend, I made the first move and told the boots exactly how I felt. They came home with me, no questions asked. We are trying to take it slow, but every day it feels like the very first time. It's <b>kind of</b> like Lars and the Real Girl over here, but with way more buckles and sass. And I say kind of because I didn't pay attention to the movie that much, just the leading man. These boots are my #1, but Mr. Gosling is a strong #2.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-52043698337522593332014-02-25T07:00:00.000-06:002014-02-25T07:00:06.172-06:00New Orleans Bound<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Unless you avoid me on all social media outlets, you are not aware that I am heading to the Big Easy next week for Mardi Gras! If you're a Twitter/Instagram follower then you are beyond bored of hearing about it already. I can't help it, y'all, I'm so excited! I am like a little kid who can't sleep the night before Christmas. I'm making the road trip with one of my nearest and dearest old friends. We have made the trek every other year since we turned 21 and it has made for some of the best memories. Since Fat Tuesday is ONE week from today, I wanted to share some of my favorite tastes of New Orleans-style merrymaking with all of my little chickens today!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Un, deux, trois... laissez les bon temps rouler!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQ37sp2sZ1W04uU9rseoLOrDOXs56hO0GLIQRCOdT2dLMG_XlPANYBlWyy-jfy8q3wMW5PSA9-8578Kzo5Q5ZOIwlw8tEem1pmLAPC2kZazyQyW5XmCyhivQLb2XMHihJJxl4yxffT7wk/s1600/mardigras1.png.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQ37sp2sZ1W04uU9rseoLOrDOXs56hO0GLIQRCOdT2dLMG_XlPANYBlWyy-jfy8q3wMW5PSA9-8578Kzo5Q5ZOIwlw8tEem1pmLAPC2kZazyQyW5XmCyhivQLb2XMHihJJxl4yxffT7wk/s1600/mardigras1.png.png.png" height="620" width="940" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5AxRJwB7OOGaF9032GXTYtyeRt7klkLQEUys4HKzPMPLONPN6DrYo78i1t0X8StkSoH2Bh0QcoGfdDzX8Vi8zXNTOd_-RTnf5aTPHCpAaCgs03o-DbpH29vIoL_Rr7EDOaorfkXNWZM2/s1600/mardigras2.png.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5AxRJwB7OOGaF9032GXTYtyeRt7klkLQEUys4HKzPMPLONPN6DrYo78i1t0X8StkSoH2Bh0QcoGfdDzX8Vi8zXNTOd_-RTnf5aTPHCpAaCgs03o-DbpH29vIoL_Rr7EDOaorfkXNWZM2/s1600/mardigras2.png.png.png" height="620" width="940" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've visited New Orleans more times that I can count. It is only six tiny hours from Memphis, and I have travleed by car and train to the city of frozen beverages at all different times of the year. There's no bad time to visit NOLA, but here are some of the things I am most looking forward to doing during Mardi Gras. I love the sounds of the music on every corner and the traditional costumes mixed in with the crazy bead tossing parade float riders. From cafe au lait and beignets to hot dog carts and frozen daquriris in 88 oz cups. You know what, why don't you just come with me!? Ok deal.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All images pinned <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/bekahmcduffie/new-orleansmardi-gras/">here.</a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-48701820171510309832014-02-24T07:00:00.000-06:002014-02-24T07:00:06.734-06:00Just Another Midi Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoFkuNFKByknmtxW8Bc_jUjDt2pkOIHae_lPCHdYkjW2iqGbutbaA9efnTr2MaYaRWHcBZA237dlthUlWqDzgOk-oubznAB7oVcWZlj3YhDXg5UvlKo7R_InoIaBBfXhjwZpP5VbhKe2iC/s1600/2-24-14.2.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoFkuNFKByknmtxW8Bc_jUjDt2pkOIHae_lPCHdYkjW2iqGbutbaA9efnTr2MaYaRWHcBZA237dlthUlWqDzgOk-oubznAB7oVcWZlj3YhDXg5UvlKo7R_InoIaBBfXhjwZpP5VbhKe2iC/s1600/2-24-14.2.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
princeton shirt: target (old) // skirt: tj maxx // scarf: forever 21 // </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
wedges: dolce vita // sunglasses: target</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9zfwSApQ_Q1esJDmk9i5Wfvwp-aShRwbxbKndVwK1s8Ov4GnkGs_qDEaJlRnU7Zf7Jn4ftt3T2wlDBN9kPm2XnSxbh2PuNz8ffPoTPIRQUvefnNbarvhSmr9e8RhqXQsxEurRg9x2WFm/s1600/2-24-14.3.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9zfwSApQ_Q1esJDmk9i5Wfvwp-aShRwbxbKndVwK1s8Ov4GnkGs_qDEaJlRnU7Zf7Jn4ftt3T2wlDBN9kPm2XnSxbh2PuNz8ffPoTPIRQUvefnNbarvhSmr9e8RhqXQsxEurRg9x2WFm/s1600/2-24-14.3.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix3-dUSBBrytkfaXOgnfi-p0YKCazTDlFXS1zcmPS2YI5AOGNy6gVlUQx7sNFWXYEtdGQXKCF9Aom7ghcIxEfBAleT2mbUFVpysuo6idY2EvHcB3dVu8uNkE62XYuZo-w8n3psT8hdaWd3/s1600/2-24-14.4.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix3-dUSBBrytkfaXOgnfi-p0YKCazTDlFXS1zcmPS2YI5AOGNy6gVlUQx7sNFWXYEtdGQXKCF9Aom7ghcIxEfBAleT2mbUFVpysuo6idY2EvHcB3dVu8uNkE62XYuZo-w8n3psT8hdaWd3/s1600/2-24-14.4.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="680" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlj-iqdgnZI09N3J2UmDBiGgYjP4wUnhGbIc3rbXKzuBLLsxQ7jGVvACKTs3YyzZwG7e6F0jlu9xC2TXWq8NK-7Ft1ZC5pKO_9SGGllQYIi4BJBDxLnWDufrMjHWi4HcmJmOfOmtrvPqY/s1600/2-24-14.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlj-iqdgnZI09N3J2UmDBiGgYjP4wUnhGbIc3rbXKzuBLLsxQ7jGVvACKTs3YyzZwG7e6F0jlu9xC2TXWq8NK-7Ft1ZC5pKO_9SGGllQYIi4BJBDxLnWDufrMjHWi4HcmJmOfOmtrvPqY/s1600/2-24-14.jpg.jpg" height="840" width="646" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Let's hope this Monday is less painful that the previous (and I think I am on the right track with this super fun look!) I don't normally reach for this longer length of skirt, so it makes sense that it has been hanging unworn in my closet for months. The midi length style is not going anywhere, any time soon, so I wanted to finally break it out and give it a go! I actually love the way this outfit turned out. I will always be a fan of a vintage tee and a fun skirt forever-ever. It definitely doesn't hurt than the skirt is flippy and has great movement! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think that if every Monday has a little more twirl to it, it wouldn't have such a bad rap.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-58488073588488196392014-02-21T07:00:00.000-06:002014-02-21T07:00:15.166-06:00Friday Pet Peeves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OI088HI1xT8t8thU4k8guuEOq6EcxT3xHhs18h3RHFMXFdXedAJ9GEckRVVbvj5RHnJjY4lqfweg1syHtPgf3j2O6Vh56pPq3JhAdb9Fp7tajenukTB2N953Ni6HI3xIyUdxXrV75uGv/s1600/2-21-14.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OI088HI1xT8t8thU4k8guuEOq6EcxT3xHhs18h3RHFMXFdXedAJ9GEckRVVbvj5RHnJjY4lqfweg1syHtPgf3j2O6Vh56pPq3JhAdb9Fp7tajenukTB2N953Ni6HI3xIyUdxXrV75uGv/s1600/2-21-14.2.jpg" height="584" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
dress: cynthia rowley // cardigan: dots // necklace: gift //<br />
clutch: enit design <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/enitdesign">(HERE!)</a> // booties: lane bryant <a href="http://www.bodenusa.com/en-US/Womens-Shoes-Boots/Boots/AZ184/Womens-Boho-Boot.html?NavGroupID=11">(similar)</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdgU_7YVhn5RiKCOCutyltgV63QzKwtY2dRbfmusSBT-CCMZZNw8mS7bhjoOLzA1KS_pe3_5XFioIKOtooj0cA-nb1jGrBTBuHlhEFaV_wqwf47HqgDvn5uRN4gmMH_tprNSDISUEPTCn/s1600/2-21-14.3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdgU_7YVhn5RiKCOCutyltgV63QzKwtY2dRbfmusSBT-CCMZZNw8mS7bhjoOLzA1KS_pe3_5XFioIKOtooj0cA-nb1jGrBTBuHlhEFaV_wqwf47HqgDvn5uRN4gmMH_tprNSDISUEPTCn/s1600/2-21-14.3.jpg" height="486" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1A_QeSoK61ULcPoKIbb1T6qMSAYmND2v2w1KE45UG3CrI5rSH8F0U2cCnxaYbOdm-n93-of5kwz2-k82D4vfcuCB7AhqfYL8XZWfDzwlmRnt-2UljqlBnD7YATEMnyDjAGtvocs4lj0Z5/s1600/2-21-14.4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1A_QeSoK61ULcPoKIbb1T6qMSAYmND2v2w1KE45UG3CrI5rSH8F0U2cCnxaYbOdm-n93-of5kwz2-k82D4vfcuCB7AhqfYL8XZWfDzwlmRnt-2UljqlBnD7YATEMnyDjAGtvocs4lj0Z5/s1600/2-21-14.4.jpg" height="510" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Sumi0X3CIDF-ukf0T9saGtdyml3hBkDmSMhQ2p22DIDgXmkHfci0V7bAaowbhBnlfZ08PcaF1txGNT9BQCjarUpdBrQTYz-KYc8pfmU-ao-wu38AXGZuf7WodpK4jqGfGpPOEkPhyphenhyphenaUd/s1600/2-21-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Sumi0X3CIDF-ukf0T9saGtdyml3hBkDmSMhQ2p22DIDgXmkHfci0V7bAaowbhBnlfZ08PcaF1txGNT9BQCjarUpdBrQTYz-KYc8pfmU-ao-wu38AXGZuf7WodpK4jqGfGpPOEkPhyphenhyphenaUd/s1600/2-21-14.jpg" height="640" width="620" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sure... everything looks fine right here, right now. Flash forward to one hour later, when the seemingly lovable cardigan stretched out and became almost twice as long. With huge bat wings as sleeves, I was basically wearing a sheet draped across my shoulders. Don't go and judge the beloved blue cardigan just yet. It has definitely been well-loved and is probably on its last leg. Clothing that stretches out and betrays you is definitely one of my major pet peeves... which got me to thinking about the other facets of daily life that make steam come out of my ears. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Let's see there is rush hour traffic, or just basically ALL Memphis traffic/drivers/interstates.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When people drag their forks across their teeth... I will seriously COME AT YOU.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Also, I hate hearing people chew. At a store, when a clerk follows you around and asks over and over if you need help. No ma'am I've been doing this for quite some time... I'm good.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When people don't use their blinkers, I turn in to Clark Griswold.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I also get majorly annoyed by "hubby" or "hubs," I mean he didn't lose his name when you got his, ladies. I could honestly go on and on, but it's Friday and I don't want to start the weekend as a grump.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I hope your weekend is full of happiness and people who eat their food like normal humans.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
XO</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-27302347615781594122014-02-20T11:06:00.000-06:002014-02-20T13:58:01.831-06:00Spring Wish List<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 800px;">
<div style="position: relative;">
<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/spring_wish_list_2014/set?.embedder=2393926&.svc=copypaste&id=113210577" target="_blank"><img alt="spring wish list 2014" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/7kWB1grYKstGakg23OFTQ/cid/113210577/id/GoIuQLOT4xGWwxzhSLYPRA/size/c800x637.jpg" height="637" title="spring wish list 2014" width="800" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I mentioned a few days ago how truly ready I was for Spring to get its cute lil butt here! I know it is just around the corner, so I am getting my sights set on some superb Spring goodies.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Here's a list of my warmer weather wants:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>one.</b> <a href="http://www.onestopplus.com/" target="_blank">Spring Gingham</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>two. </b> <a href="http://www.onestopplus.com/clothing/Stila-Cosmetics-Magnificent-Metals-Foil-Finish-Eye-Shadow-Primer-007-oz.aspx?PfId=436809&DeptId=24192&ProductTypeId=1&ppos=27&Splt=0&Affiliate_ID=008&Affiliate_Location_ID=01#.Uvse8EKwLGU" target="_blank">Gold Foil Eyelids</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>three.</b> <a href="http://www.onestopplus.com/clothing/Studded-Faux-Leather-Slingback-Wedges-Wide-Width.aspx?PfId=428427&DeptId=23237&ProductTypeId=1&ppos=20&Splt=0#.UvsN60KwLGU&Affiliate_ID=008&Affiliate_Location_ID=01" target="_blank">Cutout Slingback Heels</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>four.</b> <a href="http://www.mytheresa.com/us_en/9225-allegra-cropped-jeans.html" target="_blank">Sky Blue Skinnies</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>five.</b> <a href="http://sephora.com/" target="_blank">Radiant Orchid Lippy</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>six.</b> <a href="http://us.asos.com/countryid/2/Alice-And-You-Color-Pop-Daisy-Print-Shift-Dress/12f02t/?iid=3841059&utm_source=Affiliate&utm_medium=LinkShare&utm_content=USNetwork.1&utm_campaign=Hy3bqNL2jtQ&cvosrc=Affiliate.LinkShare.Hy3bqNL2jtQ&link=10&promo=316488&source=linkshare&MID=35719&affid=2135&WT.tsrc=Affiliate&siteID=Hy3bqNL2jtQ-aDGYHBRhVVBvU35g7DwPSA" target="_blank"> Daisy Print Shift Dress</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>seven.</b> <a href="http://www.torrid.com/" target="_blank">Buckle Pointy Toe Booties</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>eight. </b> <a href="http://www.jeweliq.com/" target="_blank">Spring Statement Necklace</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">What are your big wants/needs/must-haves for Spring? Do tell!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-11923935452802692372014-02-19T09:23:00.000-06:002014-02-19T09:23:46.185-06:00Boho Flow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYYwaQLZkiSP-YRgOGg3gCfOtDegGtzHSWCW99y26xlIjPk6XYqk4THEg1ePASZ_lxZUMUYytl2Qcf-r3uH55XNQR3SP44eW3ezFWVB5QC8hVXmwLCj2qTqFHr_q0BmTnDcY78dy-VY0ke/s1600/2-19-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYYwaQLZkiSP-YRgOGg3gCfOtDegGtzHSWCW99y26xlIjPk6XYqk4THEg1ePASZ_lxZUMUYytl2Qcf-r3uH55XNQR3SP44eW3ezFWVB5QC8hVXmwLCj2qTqFHr_q0BmTnDcY78dy-VY0ke/s1600/2-19-14.jpg" height="740" width="634" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
dress, worn as skirt: target // wedges: payless <a href="http://www.bonton.com/sc2/shop/shoes/women-s-dress/barefoot-tess-elizabeth-wedge-platform-pump_535927.html?ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=535927&utm_source=GOOG&utm_medium=CSE&utm_campaign=CI&CID=GOOG-CSE-CI" target="_blank">(similar)</a> // top: target </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
necklace: versona accessories // sunglasses: target <a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-gradient-brown-lens-sunglasses-tortoise-frame/-/A-14108102" target="_blank">(here)</a> // ring & bracelet: gifts</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCUDeoUReG4tfK6ch1TR4XxrIQnhJ56RoXb5m7VPQefqPVFaekToBN-A2RYzZ_5y5w6F1QBsCaGbTdHyH_Uu9iFNkLJ5zaV57JoVczCWvh657_SgV2k_f9SQUv82HfuCOUNs9Ze0fa-0ar/s1600/2-19-14.5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCUDeoUReG4tfK6ch1TR4XxrIQnhJ56RoXb5m7VPQefqPVFaekToBN-A2RYzZ_5y5w6F1QBsCaGbTdHyH_Uu9iFNkLJ5zaV57JoVczCWvh657_SgV2k_f9SQUv82HfuCOUNs9Ze0fa-0ar/s1600/2-19-14.5.jpg" height="740" width="628" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDgAdk4h59UfQSPYkYJvJs4TejF1v7_z0Ettez0CQoG6GWOXyrwnavL2eK-0y-5UE9Yla2imQ9AnEVz0SWr3KvFF3UH9JZQJcHeMY4bMVQqhq8ASRtAUTcPbdD4u2fgbN13P4unjyelCP/s1600/2-19-14.3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDgAdk4h59UfQSPYkYJvJs4TejF1v7_z0Ettez0CQoG6GWOXyrwnavL2eK-0y-5UE9Yla2imQ9AnEVz0SWr3KvFF3UH9JZQJcHeMY4bMVQqhq8ASRtAUTcPbdD4u2fgbN13P4unjyelCP/s1600/2-19-14.3.jpg" height="740" width="630" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXaFKUfciQbhpV4QHSAF3p9-RyZ4krnaruTo455emEO3OFpuhnhwIjt1alasWsISZcIa3Qt_6X0_l0AcFuD0HZ0wlDdS3HHPWgrN0D7j19bQQXGl4gfvX7JtAb-dWLCkt9WwXwQF00upoz/s1600/2-19-14.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXaFKUfciQbhpV4QHSAF3p9-RyZ4krnaruTo455emEO3OFpuhnhwIjt1alasWsISZcIa3Qt_6X0_l0AcFuD0HZ0wlDdS3HHPWgrN0D7j19bQQXGl4gfvX7JtAb-dWLCkt9WwXwQF00upoz/s1600/2-19-14.2.jpg" height="740" width="630" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoaswkMD2r-RxHtrDlGloKkjBP_Jy_jsYDa7Gpd4aGC-R-kDtbaoX7qjYZzssFmjc7xCzBUDYFMP574e-aAKo6Z-s1FxU8l29BapFsgTb0CL4cxohIlLjPEuu7asnyG3eIyI9_MxGWNmVV/s1600/2-19-14.4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoaswkMD2r-RxHtrDlGloKkjBP_Jy_jsYDa7Gpd4aGC-R-kDtbaoX7qjYZzssFmjc7xCzBUDYFMP574e-aAKo6Z-s1FxU8l29BapFsgTb0CL4cxohIlLjPEuu7asnyG3eIyI9_MxGWNmVV/s1600/2-19-14.4.jpg" height="546" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I don't know if it is the mass amount of Lana de Rey I have been streaming lately, but I have felt much more free-spirit when getting dressed. Plus, we have been blessed with a glorious warm spell when it comes to weather, so I'm taking full advantage. Initially, I centered this outfit around the loose flow skirt (it's actually a dress, not a real shock to any longtime readers,) but in the end I love how to draped top looks accompanying it. One step away from one big potato sack, but I like living life on the edge like that. The sunglasses were just a natural fit for the look... Do you think Vanessa Hudgens would want to be friends? This is about as boho as I get, but me likey! <br />
Speaking of weather, I feel like Spring is in my sights! I will have some of big Spring wish list items up this week. Happy hump day and best Wednesday wishes to all of my little chickens. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-20954804494401247222014-02-18T08:30:00.000-06:002014-02-18T08:47:37.987-06:00Let's Try This Again...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr5DnnHwFzbJ6Fan_H44Chd8V0DBr87lkTKLpwy9WrKmhv0mAl7glfKSzqeSOTR8OsRL9HxMZ9pPXc8GQS-Y-xwbOKYX-urMrioHjRbjMxPs49ypOhY6GscwqhPp7pvLkAHa9qvxz_XyrE/s1600/2-18-14.4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr5DnnHwFzbJ6Fan_H44Chd8V0DBr87lkTKLpwy9WrKmhv0mAl7glfKSzqeSOTR8OsRL9HxMZ9pPXc8GQS-Y-xwbOKYX-urMrioHjRbjMxPs49ypOhY6GscwqhPp7pvLkAHa9qvxz_XyrE/s1600/2-18-14.4.jpg" height="633" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
top: gibson // skinnies: h&m+ <a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/21127?article=21127-A" target="_blank">(similar</a>) // wedges: payless <a href="http://www.zappos.com/calvin-klein-saxton-k-suede-stack-cranberry" target="_blank">(similar)</a> // </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
necklace: crack in the walk // gold clutch: marc jacobs for target</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QO3ylBsEwzQ_L62Daqfg_lsTbRR_-q-wEZ6hwygq79LxSff39CYfFT8bqGJ71Kqz3nLbTZp_Izod39Unat5hyphenhyphenbFQSrCOCuvlxgNmVwWBer52WWVl9fdeYenLpG252cRs86Bk_BAb0pfK/s1600/2-18-14.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QO3ylBsEwzQ_L62Daqfg_lsTbRR_-q-wEZ6hwygq79LxSff39CYfFT8bqGJ71Kqz3nLbTZp_Izod39Unat5hyphenhyphenbFQSrCOCuvlxgNmVwWBer52WWVl9fdeYenLpG252cRs86Bk_BAb0pfK/s1600/2-18-14.2.jpg" height="640" width="518" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKwnrnN-2g0CwgMfi7pSprD0H1PKUh7-kshLbwX0FiLYZccvQuSf16hqyTBBcohNXKMLX6fSkGs56rlOalSbZl78F6komH0kNOTdXuoJY-dCS-AGa4JXOLAFlNFuTIr7AhOPGi2jNk1455/s1600/2-18-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKwnrnN-2g0CwgMfi7pSprD0H1PKUh7-kshLbwX0FiLYZccvQuSf16hqyTBBcohNXKMLX6fSkGs56rlOalSbZl78F6komH0kNOTdXuoJY-dCS-AGa4JXOLAFlNFuTIr7AhOPGi2jNk1455/s1600/2-18-14.jpg" height="640" width="557" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP7gmXVXeg5389732Dy6oa3FBP2IgKVAaWKgWr28YNAobnkWRy2_BT2FVGFb4gsk6cGz7H_J-Knr0xwqPFQff2SHONmYlthyphenhyphen5_d_QgAKa3wuyWH5TpDCxiF9pjiCOU82PA9rbbl8xbotmE/s1600/2-18-14.3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP7gmXVXeg5389732Dy6oa3FBP2IgKVAaWKgWr28YNAobnkWRy2_BT2FVGFb4gsk6cGz7H_J-Knr0xwqPFQff2SHONmYlthyphenhyphen5_d_QgAKa3wuyWH5TpDCxiF9pjiCOU82PA9rbbl8xbotmE/s1600/2-18-14.3.jpg" height="640" width="536" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Boy, that Monday sure was a bummer, huh? They just don't get easier, little chickens.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On days when I need some extra pepping up (like today, I was still kinda in <a href="http://www.mattersofmerrymaking.com/2014/02/funky-monday.html" target="_blank">the funk</a>) I always try to go above and beyond in my appearance. It is a hope that if my clothes and makeup (the hair is <i>usually </i>a lost cause) are on pointe then hopefully my attitude and energy level will follow. My heart wanted sweat pants, but my head insisted on my new favorite top and red wedges. If you asked me a year ago if I would be rocking dressy sweatshirts (<a href="http://www.mattersofmerrymaking.com/2014/01/comfort-style-lipstick.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.mattersofmerrymaking.com/2014/01/fancy-sweatshirts-4ever.html" target="_blank">here</a>) with a passion... I would have laughed at you. This is my third one, and there's no coming back from this. As far as the funk is concerned, I'm a firm believer in the healing power of a good lipstick and a statement necklace.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What do you reach for when you need to cure the blues?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Assuming it is too early in the day for a cocktail... :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Linking up with <a href="http://www.walkinginmemphisinhighheels.com/" target="_blank">Laura</a> and <a href="http://www.thefashioncanvas.com/" target="_blank">Erin</a> today!</div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316174378204591434.post-2879699990452886452014-02-17T07:00:00.000-06:002014-02-17T07:00:03.007-06:00Funky Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-Yjxzn6AxYfqjZaQs4xvE7OmOj98gk5lB73x1JjjF74zT8HVRU2utDTA0iCinyFtjDNvfki5arj54DJTAlh3Wu3X4MEKwe2u2lXRtSsfRc92959EoVIishDXOBieljdzqplEEbZkM415/s1600/2-17-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-Yjxzn6AxYfqjZaQs4xvE7OmOj98gk5lB73x1JjjF74zT8HVRU2utDTA0iCinyFtjDNvfki5arj54DJTAlh3Wu3X4MEKwe2u2lXRtSsfRc92959EoVIishDXOBieljdzqplEEbZkM415/s1600/2-17-14.jpg" height="840" width="724" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
dress: dots // shoes: rocket dog <a href="http://barefoottess.com/" target="_blank">via barefoot tess</a> // necklace: <a href="http://www.lydellnyc.com/" target="_blank">lydell nyc</a> // cardigan: old navy</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7XCfingooj4Keda9Z0amaV5Sg8DlK_ba11_FtwNs7r5W1LFNtlp7m4OCd195u_BN4wt-PaFhBi9tFHDrYRsk2YFJqoPqaQ80huZSX72w7drU1IKO78k3u45w9i9C30c8GSnTt7L7DJig/s1600/2-17-14.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7XCfingooj4Keda9Z0amaV5Sg8DlK_ba11_FtwNs7r5W1LFNtlp7m4OCd195u_BN4wt-PaFhBi9tFHDrYRsk2YFJqoPqaQ80huZSX72w7drU1IKO78k3u45w9i9C30c8GSnTt7L7DJig/s1600/2-17-14.2.jpg" height="840" width="750" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Can we talk about how utterly exhausted I am? I'm in an overwhelming funk. It seems like a marathon weekend has passed and little sleep can really take it out a girl. Even a merrymaker! Patience levels at an all time low, tired skin, and a mysterious bruise or two (??). I think I am over February. I need some fresh inspiration, a nap, and a vitamin c facial. I did finally make a big purchase this weekend, I grabbed a gorgeous white desk (on sale!) that I have had my eye on at Target. I feel much more organized and ready to blog from my new tableau! Hopefully inspiration will follow and this funk will fade. I think more retail therapy is on the agenda. I'm hoping a TJ Maxx and a venti vanilla latte will cure the blues this morning. Happy Monday to my little chickens!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Scroll on down to check out a little bit of my weekend wrap-up.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVzxis_zsqrplq8U83z-wJki2rHZ_yoIhnpW8p2Uq0atzEu6ykaBbg9rHKKWjS-VJg-uSwgOUssDebq39Ph9HW9cPP8q1NxDhWkMZ64G93UJFD6v4n9mTvk9Hf8XZcw-b88V-M7-Vyz0B4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-02-16+at+11.46.46+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVzxis_zsqrplq8U83z-wJki2rHZ_yoIhnpW8p2Uq0atzEu6ykaBbg9rHKKWjS-VJg-uSwgOUssDebq39Ph9HW9cPP8q1NxDhWkMZ64G93UJFD6v4n9mTvk9Hf8XZcw-b88V-M7-Vyz0B4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-02-16+at+11.46.46+PM.png" height="628" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_fC4WK2Thb24iR1w4vzEBwza4F_tHjZ7zKmGhePLxEPCqCFIQAODNN2CGY0LuRyaf481ydilFGid-3rALTA3SKHIaL3hx-ANpwq_RQrG4V8DJxlavmCPn-c_oKlvTyVbD3gEBh9FV0SS/s1600/2-17-14collage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_fC4WK2Thb24iR1w4vzEBwza4F_tHjZ7zKmGhePLxEPCqCFIQAODNN2CGY0LuRyaf481ydilFGid-3rALTA3SKHIaL3hx-ANpwq_RQrG4V8DJxlavmCPn-c_oKlvTyVbD3gEBh9FV0SS/s1600/2-17-14collage.png" height="288" width="840" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1. House of Cards season 2 released on Friday and I have almost gotten all the way through it. I'm obsessed with Frank Underwood.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2. I sang some karaoke over the weekend (a favorite activity, second to margaritas) probably one reason why I am so tired. Performing is intense business :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
3. Rocking my Christmas present from one of my best friends on Sunday. If crystals really do have energizing properties, I am totally down with giving it a try!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
4. Loving my round frame sunglasses, from Target!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
XO</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/2339560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Follow matters of merrymaking on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=2339560" /></a></div>
Bekah McDuffiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05563689190028674188noreply@blogger.com19