Alyson’s Obsessions // November 2017

Did this month insanely fly by or what? I can’t believe I almost missed Alyson’s Obsessions for November… here I am! All the traveling, both kids birthday parties, Thanksgiving, family photos, work and life has really made my head spin. Definitely don’t want to glamourize “busy” here because I’m so ready for downtime…. we likely all are.

As we jump into the things I”m loving most this month, had to share the above message with you. It so resonates with me and is a necessary reminder — even as I share a few tangible things I’m loving — we must first focus on gratitude, thankfulness and joy… for ourselves, for those around us and for our community, particularly for those who need it most this season.

 

BAUBLEBAR’S LAYERED NECKLACE

A recent addition to my jewelry collection, this light-weight layered necklace from BaubleBar is so gorgeous. I get at least a half-dozen messages on Instagram each time I wear it, and with good reason.  It’s often excluded from promos however BaubleBar is running tons of promotions this season — and launching a 12 days of buried baubles (basically a mega daily discount on one item). In complete transparency, I purchase items from there plenty on my own, however they invited me to pick a piece of jewelry and I selected this one (after wanting it for months! For gift ideas, I love BaubleBar’s gift sets, monogrammed jewelry & statement earrings. They’re the best way to easily glam up any outfit.

 

MUST READ // The Unique Pain of Losing a Parent When Your Children Are Young

My dad passed away two years ago this December 9th. It feels like it just happened and also feels like forever ago. We focus on keeping alive the memories for Sarah, and mentioning grandpa Mark to Evan whenever we can. It’s a pain that breaks my heart, not only for myself but the idea that my children won’t grow up with one of their grandpas. I was so, so fortunate to be in my 30s before losing any grandparents — and still have both grandmas. This article from Scary Mommy is worth reading if you can relate, or know someone who can.

 

MY INSTAGRAM + LOVE OF THE STORIES! 

Are we Instagram friends (and hope so, because I currently have a giveaway going on there!)? In addition to regular content one of my favorite ways to share quick sales, what’s happening in my life, mini vent sesh’s, local finds, fitting room diaries, etc is through Instagram Stories (those little circles at the top of your feed). Be sure to follow me @themodernsavvy and if you decide to mention me to a friend or two, I’ll basically be grateful forever.

 

BOYS BICYCLE!

Evan was way overdue for a bicycle so after tons of research I got him this BMX bike — in red, his favorite color! — and it’s been SUCH a hit. It’s super sturdy, easy to move the seat up or down, has training wheels you can take off, and has excellent reviews.  Did I mention it has a little bell? Evan is fully living his best life while riding this bad boy! PS: we got his helmet in-store at Toys R’ Us, however Amazon has lots of mohawk and other fun helmets.

 

GUCCI DUPES: THE PRINCETON FUZZY LOAFER

You guys, we can pretend they’re Gucci but am I going to spend $995 (seriously) on loafers with faux fur? NEGATIVE. Will I spend $25 on insanely comfy loafers I can wear out of the house but are as soft and comfortable as slippers? OBVIOUSLY. These are so cute, also now come in the prettiest nude/blush color, and are totally on trend. I’ve worn them a ton already, as evidenced below. Honestly, trend or not… they’re so stinkin’ comfy and I’ve found are equally perfect when you’re just running out of the house.

 

MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM

If you’re in South Florida you might have heard that the Museum of Ice Cream is opening its fourth location in Miami this season.  Basically, it’s less history, more bright colors pools filled with sprinkles, giant ice cream statues, interactive ice cream art exhibits and plenty of sugary tastings. So fun! You have to get tickets in advance so we’re going to make it a winter break activity! It also looks pretty incredible if you’re a big fan of Instagram… I mean, hanging in a pool full of sprinkles? Perfection.

 

That’s it for now! Be sure to continue to follow me on social media (@themodernsavvy pretty much everywhere!) and stay tuned here for lots more content. Plus, email anytime with questions or content suggestions.