Sunday, June 24, 2012

Confidence & A Full House Of Blues

@ House Of Blues
Style Shout Out to music and confidence...

It's been another busy week and as I sat down this morning with a cup of coffee while the house was still quiet I realized that I hadn't written anything all week.  And believe me there's been some fun finds to write about including a great find on some Chan Luu bracelets at Gilt and some adorable Sperry's that I picked up for my daughter at Nordstrom.

But the highlight of my week had nothing to do with shopping and was all about watching my daughter sing at the House Of Blues on Wednesday night. You see she's played there a few times, and in fact is playing there again today, but Wednesday was different.  The Cult was playing the main stage that night which meant a packed house.  When we walked through the doors into the Voodoo Lounge where she was playing she took one look around and said, "Wow this is really crowded!"  I'm sure it must have been a bit overwhelming for her especially since she's only nine years old.  I think it would be overwhelming for most musicians who are just starting out and even some more experienced performers.

I looked at her and asked her if she still wanted to perform and she said, "Yes, of course!"

So off we went to the "green room" to wait.  It's the first time we've been to the House Of Blues where we couldn't get a table and it was literally standing room only.  I heard someone say that there were about 350 to 400 people in the place.  As I looked at Claire playing a game on her iPhone and I scanned the "green room" I realized she was the youngest performer, by far, in the room. The other musicians were very nice and a few of them assumed that I was the one playing, which made my husband and daughter smile.  I haven't played since the 90's and that's a story for another day!

To say that the other performers were a little shocked when I said that Claire was the one playing is an understatement.  But they all wished her good luck.  That's the thing about music that I love...that it's a community where most musicians support each other. Musicians know how difficult it is to take the stage and perform especially when you are playing songs that you've written.

@ House Of Blues
As I watched Claire take the stage with my husband who was accompanying her on guitar I realized how much music has played a role in building her confidence.  I realized that every time she steps onto a stage, big or small, it is another building block in an already solid foundation.

She had so much fun the other night.  When the words, "Hi I'm Claire, I'm nine years old..." came through the PA system the room became a little quieter and when she sang "Brighter Than The Sun" by Colbie Caillat people were up and out of the chairs and dancing.  The smile on her face said it all as she continued her set which included "Relator" by Pete Yorn "Let The Rain" by Sara Bareilles, and her own songs.

I don't know if Claire will want to make music a career one day and that's for her to decide as she grows up.  But I am thankful for the experiences she is having and the fun she is having right now!  As a Mom there's no greater feeling than when your child is doing something they love to do and they are smiling and happy.

Thursday, June 14, 2012

Simply Gigi

Ashley Tisdale in Gigi Sandals
via Singer22
Style Shout Out to Sam Edelman and Gigi...

I am one of those shoppers that is very brand loyal and very savvy about where I spend my shopping dollars!  And I am very big on companies that are big on customer service.

When it comes to denim I love J Brand, Paige and Current/Elliott for their quality, style and comfort.

For handbags I think that Louis Vuitton and Gucci are investment pieces that will last more than a decade.  I know this for a fact as I have bags in my closet today that date back to 1996.

For shoes I love all things Stuart Weitzman because of the style, quality, comfort and price point of his shoes.  I'm wearing my Alex wedges again today as they are a staple in my Spring and Summer wardrobe. TKEES flip flops are so versatile because they take me from a day at the beach to a dinner with my family! My Sledge pumps from LK Bennett in taupe are amazingly versatile and yes, these are the same shoes worn by a very well-known Duchess.

Other staples in my closet are my Sam Edelman Gigi sandals.  I just picked up another pair from Nordstrom in Almond which goes with everything.  This is simply a classic shoe that is both cute and comfy and perfect for these very hot Texas Summer days!  Gigi is a flat sandal that can be easily dressed up or down.  I've worn mine with everything from summer dresses and my Current/Elliott snap jacket to my white Paige jeans and LNA tees!

So if you're looking for a cute sandal order some Gigi sandals from Nordstrom or Singer22 today.  I wouldn't wait too long because last year the Saddle sold out quickly and I had to wait quite a while to get them!

Oh and if you have a liitle shoe lover at home, Sam Edelman now makes the iconic Gigi for girls!

Thursday, June 7, 2012

TOMS...Sunnies For Sight!

TOMS @ Nordstrom.com
Style Shout Out to TOMS...one for one!

I can't believe it's been a year since I wrote about TOMS launching their line of sunglasses.  With Summer temperatures heating up, now is the perfect time to pick up a new pair of sunnies and TOMS has some great styles at some great prices.

The thing I really like about TOMS is their philosophy of giving back.  It is both inspiring and so admirable.  The vision started with a simple shoe and is now continuing with some simple shades and some fun new shoe styles. Every time their sunnies are sold TOMS will ensure that someone will receive the gift of sight through medical treatment, prescription eyewear or sight-saving surgery!

So head to Nordstrom today and you can feel good about your purchase knowing that while protecting your eyes, you're giving someone else the opportunity to see the world more clearly.