Finding things you REALLY love . . .

 The first day of school can be so exciting . . .

And although so many things are different these days . . .

so much remains the same as when I was young . . .

Each school year brings a sense of new beginnings . . .

new year . . . new teacher . . . new school . . . and oh yes - new clothes!!

Over Labor Day weekend - my daughter and I did a little school shopping . . .

we found out really quickly that it is hard to find clothes that fit her age . . . in quality fibers and craftsmanship . . .
as well as meeting her mother's modesty chart . . .

one word . . . shocking!!

I was definitely a bit frustrated as we went from store to store 

looking at sparkly . . . synthetic . . . and very cheaply-made clothing . . .

And then - I showed her this Navy Jacket . . .

 to my surprise her eyes lit up . . . and she ran to the nearest dressing room to try it on!

Long story short . . . for Hattie - it was love at first sight!!

This is what school shopping (like the rest of life) should be like . . .

finding things you REALLY love!!!

And for Hattie - it was this Jacket!

I am trying to teach my daughter that less is more . . .
that it isn't so much about the actual cost of an item . . .
but the quality of an item!

I truly believe that having one beautiful piece of clothing in your closet

is much more fulfilling than having a closet full of mediocre ones.

I want her to know that finding pieces you truly LOVE . . .

is so much more important than having more stuff!!

Needless to say - we didn't buy a lot as honestly we didn't see much.

But - Hattie was thrilled . . . and I was thrilled that she was thrilled!! :)

And - as for all those bright colors . . . well . . .

I have to say - they look absolutely amazing in Hattie's new school!!!

The whole school is beautiful . . . modern . . . and classic . . .

with pops of color that are happy and wonderful - absolutely perfect for learning!!

So with all that said . . .

Miss Hattie - today is your day . . .

go out there with confidence and joy . . .
with your big beautiful smile . . . and your bright blue eyes!

And remember . . .
it doesn't matter the color of the coat you wear . . .
but how you choose to wear it!!

Enjoy your new school . . . learn from your new teacher . . .
and have fun with your friends!

Remember to be good . . . help others . . . and spread a bit of happiness!!

You are truly my little ray of sunshine . . .
I love you sweet girl!!

xoxo - mom