Color Me Happy

We did it! Our first (most colorful) 5k run! The best part about it? A splash of color, or more like a wave and an awesome dance party! I'll let the photos explain the adventure....

***I think this picture is my favorite. Shows where no color was placed***

 

Best, ever

My dad came home for a long weekend!* The best part about it all? My brothers and I had no idea! 

My mom and Brad text me saying they were delivering something to my uncle and that's why they wouldn't be home when I got there.

After a few hours I heard Brad and my mom come in and Mom say, "Let's go say hi to Liz."

"Okay", I thought. I hadn't seen either all day so it would most likely be a quick hi/bye/love you. But this time was unusual. They both came in with suspicious smirks on their faces and exaggerated hellos and how are you? and how was your day? I gave them the weirdest look. I also thought it was weird because I realized when Brad came in smiling there must be something going on because 1. Brad doesn't come in to say hello to me. ever. and 2. His smile was just too happy for a twelve year old delivering something to his uncle that took longer than an hour and just got home at midnight when he has school tomorrow smile.

I thought Roberto was lurking around the corner about to pop out and say we were going to celebrate his 21st with ordering a drink at a trendy restaurant open past midnight. As soon as I thought this my dad pops into my room with arms wide open and says, "HEYYYYYY HIJA!!!!!!" All I could muster up was, "WHAT THE HELL?!?!" and literally punched him in the face and almost knocked him over from excitement!! We hugged tight for a good five minutes crying like little babies. It was the best surprise I've had in a long time because I genuinely was surprised.

Dad! I love you so much and it's so great that you're home!!!!

*Dad lives in Arkansas for work so it's on a rare basis we get to see him. My mom has a really cool blog all about it here

Googily Eyed

They are from past seasons but I am seriously ogling over these Isabel Marant shorts

But since they are probably no longer available and out of my price range I plan to try a DIY project I found here

Almost identical to my Free People cords except they are denim and shorts. Perfect short cuteness for Europe!

Things

I have a love affair with things. Currently? These!....and This and That!

{heels: Zara, spiked bracelet: Asos, beaded bracelet: For Love}

Pictures Lately

I have been doing a lot better with documenting life so here are a few pictures as of late...

Mom's 50th Birthday cupcakes. I can bake without burning, finally!
 

Skyler and Cassandra admiring the view, so curious those two are.
Woke up to rain, my favorite!
 
My favorite fruit: avocado! Had to take a picture of the ripeness!
Unless I am in the mood to cook, I result to cereal for dinner.
 
Cassandra found a new place to lounge amongst my handbags
 

Another charm bracelet, this time "L" for Liz
 

Little flip flops that hang from my rearview mirror my parents got me from their honeymoon in Jamaica

Finally sandal season, although I need to work on those feet tan lines. Story is because I work outside with kids, at times I will wear Tom's and ankle length pants resulting in the line across my foot.

Just taking pictures of myself because who doesn't do that?
 
Fried ice cream. 

Bracelet Envy

Currently OBSESSED with stacking on bracelets and a few I am very, very envious of.

 Images via Song of Style 

&

Sincerely, Jules

&

Late Afternoon

Pack Lightly

Mom, Brad and I went over to REI to search for a backpack I can lug around in Europe(!). Little did I know it would be so overwhelming finding that perfect backpack that fits all the necessities: comfort, size that is neither too small or too big, and of course it needs to look good (somewhat, anyway). I tried on a few but mostly tested one and mom wanted to document the fun!

Getting my torso measured to make sure the backpack will not be too high above my head. I learned I have a small torso (extra small!)

 Brad inspecting the backpack, making sure it's 'swag'

This helpful guy adding pounds so I can really feel what it would be like to walk around with weight

Closing the backpack full of maximum capacity

With all the simulated weight of clothes and 'crap' it ended up being 22 pounds!

Learned to lift with the knees, I don't need a broken back in Europe

Getting the feel of 22 pounds

Walking around the store 

Brad and I trying to look for shoes but it was too crowded (can you tell he's taller than me in the picture? He's so happy about that!)

A sea of backpacks. Who knew there would be so many to choose from?