Boots - Real Life

Where most people would have a bookshelf, I have a boot shelf. I have work boots, dancing boots, everyday boots, and dress boots.

But whatever the occasion, there are Ariats. They are the most comfortable, functional, fashionable brand I've found, plus they won't break the bank(bonus). I would rather wear boots than tennis shoes any day (as long as they are Ariat). Thankfully I live in an agricultural state so the funny looks are minimal. In high school and the beginning of college, "cuteness" would win over comfort 9 times out of 10. "These heels are adorable. I do have to walk to the other end of campus...eh, I'll be fine." (I sought worth in my appearance- but that's a story for later.) So apparently I'm growing up :). Now I can't justify the impracticality of the heels. With Ariat, I can have my cute conversation starter while being prepared for anything the day throws my way - unexpected thunderstorm? - dry toes, kitchen or worksite? - OSHA compliant, last-minute meeting? - running is no problem. 

Be cute, wear the dress and be prepared for anything - Ariats for the win.

(Not sponsored: I just love them, so I thought I’d share.)

Style & Function

Don't get me wrong...I like a fashion statement just as much as anyone. But if I'm wearing heels, I want to be able to run in them. So no spiked heels for me. I've spent a lot of time in a barn and cowgirls are wired to be ready for anything. 

Today was perfect!  Well, wardrobe-wise anyway.  (Let's ignore the fact that I was running late, got to work with my shoes untied and only one earring.)  I wore a flowy, multi-colored, hippie skirt, closed-toed wedges, and a spring, v-neck work tee. While I looked business casual and ready for my office job, I was also prepared for the impromptu couch races at lunch. Though our team didn't win, my skirt and heels didn't inhibit me from participating. After work, I was off to a book launch party, no time to change. (Did you know that those are a somewhat fancy event? I didn't.) But with the floor-length skirt, I was classy enough to honor my host and modest enough to sit on the floor (when we out attended the seating arrangements.)

Outfit for the win! My appearance allowed me to be prepared, honoring, and appropriately dressed for all environments of my day. It's amazing how much an outfit can affect your confidence and your day as a whole - positively or negatively.

Walmart

I'm impressed!

I stopped by today for a Redbox and a few essentials (coffee and eggs). 

I am a Walmart frequent shopper. 

I've always been a fan. But today, I wanted to say, "Thank you."  I've noticed a positive shift in the personnel's attitudes, and increased quality in select departments. 

Walmart is my go-to because I can find what I need with good quality/price ratios. I have several Great Value favorites (your dried mangos and natural crunchy peanut butter are on point). And your fashion game! It used to be rather "eh" if you had to admit your outfit was from Walmart. Now I am proud to declare I'm sporting Walmart. It means it's cute, affordable, and my friends can easily get the look as well. Needless to say, I picked up an adorable jersey camo bodycon top (not on my list :) oops) on my way to checkout this evening. So excited to rock it this summer. 

Wait, this is about y'all! In my more recent visits, a few people have stood out (I'm sorry I don't know your names.) But thank you for caring about your job, caring about people, and for enhancing my shopping trip.

So,

To the sweet lady who made eye contact and greeted me at the door

To the dude who rang me up faster than the chip reader could process (and was graciously polite as I was rudely on the phone)

To the joyful lady in the makeup aisle who struck up a conversation and gave me a few tips

To the manager at the end of the candy aisle who asked how I was doing

To the cashier who actually seemed to care about my day, more than polite conversation (I should really go through an actual checkout line more often)

To the restocker who halted his work to find me a box of Corn Chex at Christmas (A very key ingredient in our house) 

Thank you. I appreciate you! 

Have a great day. Save money, live better, Walmart.