Let Yourself Breathe

I’ve really been trying to find time to breathe lately. I don’t know if Molly has gotten to an age where she’s keeping me extra busy or if I’m just taking on more projects than I should, but lately I just feel so overwhelmed. I’m sure a lot of it has to do with the fact that we sold our house (we are currently renting it back from the new owners) and waiting for our new house to finish being built so we can actually close on our loan and move in. I think it’s all just a lot of stress. So yesterday Kevin told me to take some time for myself. Seriously, how did I get so lucky? He always makes sure I get time for myself when I need it. And he is usually the one to notice that I need some “me time” before I even notice and ask for it.

So what did I do? Well, I got dressed and did my hair and make up to start. I always feel better and more like myself when I get ready for the day. Then I got dressed in a cute, but comfortable outfit (my flat boots were so key because they aren’t only cute but so comfy for walking and I did a lot of walking), and went to a small town far outside of the city and walked around. It was so nice just to walk around with no responsibilities. I didn’t check email, I didn’t check Instagram (ok I posted a couple Insta stories but that’s it!) and I just let myself breathe.

1.BACKPACK | 2. WHITE LACE TOP | 3. JEANS | 4. OVER-THE-KNEE BOOTS

I think we all need to give ourselves these moments in life. Moments where we shut out all the business and noise in the world and just be. I’m so grateful I got a chance to do that yesterday because I feel totally recharged today! Which is a really good thing because I’m co-hosting Home & Family today and need to bring my A game. (It airs Monday FYI) And a huge thank you to my dear friend Ashley who met me while I was out for lunch and took these beautiful photos. I love that I can always count on you Ash!

Real quick outfit details. The white lace top I’m wearing is so beautiful. It’s really easy to dress it up or down depending on where you wear it. I obviously dressed it down in this look. It’s actually on sale right now for 40% off HERE. But it’s only left in limited sizes so if you really love it you can buy it HERE also.

I love the super dark wash of my jeans and that they’re true high-wasited jeans. And my backpack was just perfect to put the flowers in that I got while I was out (a lady was selling them on the side of the road!), which came in handy on my long walk so I didn’t have to carry them. And last but not least are my boots. A comfortable pair of flat boots is essential to have for the Fall and Winter months. I really love the quality of these boots by Sole Society. And the neutral color goes with everything.

Anyway, that’s all I’ve got for today. What do you guys do when you need to recharge? I definitely need to do days like this at least once a month and would love ideas from all of you on what you do to relax, reset, and recharge. Luv you guys!

1.BACKPACK | 2. WHITE LACE TOP | 3. JEANS | 4. OVER-THE-KNEE BOOTS

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59 Thoughts

59 thoughts on “Let Yourself Breathe

  1. I especially enjoyed reading your blog this morning…your sharing your life/feelings (& fashion!) Is like a breath of fresh air to read. I can relate to all you say…..God bless Kevin for being such an understanding person.
    Your lace top with the dark jeans is so pretty. Enjoy the pretty flowers. 🌸

  2. Gorgeous look! I can totally relate — I spent the majority of last week traveling and I was exhausted! I came home at 5 p.m. on Wednesday and went to bed at 7:30 p.m. Thankfully my husband was more than happy to be on “daddy duty” and cared for our sweet girl while I slept. I didn’t wake up until 6 a.m. the next morning. After I woke up, I pumped 15 oz (ouch!). I am still tired, but it was a much needed break for this busy momma! Take all the time you need! You and Kevin are rockin’ this parenting thing!

    1. I remember those days! It’s almost like to you don’t want to sleep-in or can’t because you ave to pump! Hang in there mama!

  3. Your top is so pretty. It looks much better on you than the model in the picture. Kevin seems like a wonderful dad. You’re lucky to have each other…. Cheryl

  4. Gorgeous look! I often feel overwhelmed with too many projects and things going on. My way to relax is by watching my favorite tv shows and just unwinding. I work out regularly which helps with stress. Also, being a college student, it can be hard to be away from home and be stressed out. Whenever I go home I am sure to relax and spend quality time with family. Hope this helps Ali!

    1. Working out is so important for stress and I don’t really do that at all! The only exercise I get is the walks that Kevin, Molly, Owen and I take before Molly goes to bed. Thanks for the reminder to work out more!

  5. Being in Nature is a MUST for me! While hiking, I enjoy one if my other passions, Nature photography. There is nothing like Nature! The sights , the scents, the sounds, it is a feast for the senses, not to mention the soul.

    Reading is another way I recharge. As I enter into the life if the stories, everything else fades away!

    My love of animals goes hand and hand with the love of Nature. The unconditional love I receive from animals is s salve for my heart and soul!

    1. I use to read SO much! Sometimes a book at day! I’m not even kidding I haven’t read a single page of a book (besides baby sleeping books) since Molly was born. Man I would love to start reading again. I am going to have to try at night before bed. Thank you for posting this. It reminds me how much I miss reading.

  6. Must be so hard being homeowners, getting to shop weekly, and having a custom home being built. 😂😂😂 #whitegirlprobs

    1. Not fair Carmen. We aren’t having a custom home built (not that it matters), but bought a house that wasn’t finished and the seller is finishing it before we can move in. And I know I’m fortunate and I’m grateful for that. That doesn’t me I can’t feel overwhelmed or run down.

      1. Ali, I just wanted to tell you that you handled Carmen’ s comment with class, and grace. I found her comment very rude!
        I understand being overwhelmed, I’m right there with ya, and my husband is the same way he knows when I need some me time. I enjoy reading, journaling all my thoughts, and working out. But some nights I just need a glass of wine.

    2. What a close minded comment to make. Having money and a nice family does not free a person from feelings of stress and tiredness. Ali works harder then a lot of women and takes care of her dtr. If you don’t like her lifestyle don’t read her blog.
      Keep up the good work Ali!

    3. Carmen, it’s called working hard to become a homeowner and working hard to shop weekly. You act like the world just handed her free money, a free home, and free clothes. #hardworkingwhitegirlprobs #hardworkingmamaprobs #hardworkingwifeprobs

  7. Love this outfit first of all Ali! Gorgeous! And you look amazing as always! I have a 2 year old and work full time and I know for me, I get overwhelmed sometimes and I usually take a night out with my girlfriends to help me forget about the things that are stressing me out or sometimes talk about them! Or also help them with the things bothering them so I can focus on something else besides what is stressing me out. =) Shopping is another way I like to relax and sometimes I don’t buy much but just wander to just relax. =)

    1. Kevin and I are going out with friends tomorrow night! Kevin’s brother and his finance are watching Molly for us. I’m really looking forward to it. We NEVER go out together!

  8. It is so hard sometimes to keep it all together. Usually what I do is when my husband walks in the door (I stay home with my 2 kiddos) and it’s been one of THOSE days – I’ll either 1) go thrift for my poshmark account or 2) go have panera alone for dinner.

  9. You look darling, Ali! I know you realize how lucky you are to have found Kevin to adore! What a wonderful partner! From viewing the pictures you’ve posted over time and the comments you’ve made, I think his parents are incredible people Kevin grew up watching and noticing how they treated each other.

    1. His parents are truly wonderful examples of love and companionship. He definitely learned from them and I am so grateful for that!

  10. So pleased you got the time out you needed and had a relaxing time! You are the best Ali and your little girl shows that – she’s such a delight! Glad you are feeling more like yourself today and hope your house is ready soon – very exciting!

    1. Still a bit tired but feeling better. I just need to make sure to KEEP taking time for myself. So I stay in a happy place 😉

  11. My hubby is always telling me to go take a breather and I’m like “yeah your right I do need one” even when I don’t think I do! Motherhood is amazing but sometimes we just gotta put our minds on something else or pamper ourselves once in a while.

    I absolutely love your shirt — I might have to get it! 🙂

  12. I love this blog post! My husband works away and we have a 9 month old daughter so I’m full time mom 3 weeks a month all hands on and when my huband comes home I always think of doing this but feel bad. I hate admitting that I need a break sometimes. I am definetly going to do this next time. Thanks for sharing!

    1. You absolutely need to take time for yourself Krista!!! It’s so important! Especially if you have the little one all by yourself for so much of the month!

  13. I felt like you hadn’t been yourself lately, just from watching your Instagram stories! I’m so glad you got a day to yourself! Being a mommy is the BEST thing in the WORLD… but it’s exhausting! And being a working mom on top of it! Whewww! I feel ya! (My little babe is 11months and I work full-time as a special education teacher). Happy to see you so happy! 🙂 Keep the posts coming!! <3

    1. I totally haven’t been myself. I’m just exhausted ALL THE TIME! I’m glad I got away yesterday, but it makes me wonder….will I ever feel rested and normal again?!? I honestly don’t know. This mommy stuff is hard work.

      1. This may sound strange, but have you had blood work lately? I can’t help but notice that you seem pale, so you may actually have anemia. New moms are often tired, but there may be a medical reason for extreme exhaustion. Low iron, low iron stores (ferritin) or possibly anemia. Can also cause anxiety and just generally feeling overwhelmed.

  14. Ali~
    As a single mom of three 10,5, and four it can be hectic. I read a lot after they go to bed and also binge on my shows. When I do get a rare day to myself I either catch up on sleep or meet a girlfriend for lunch. It’s always nice catching up and not feeling isolated as a mommy. I admire your and Kevin’s relationship. I’m so happy that you found a great match. Molly is adorable. And it sounds like your balancing a lot of stuff. And selling and buying a new home is stressful. Remember you always have to take care of yourself so you can be there for Kevin and Molly. Love watching your journey. Xoxoxo

    1. I binge on shows after she goes to bed too. Well really I watch one or two shows at the most. She goes to bed a 7 and I go to bed at like 8:30. Ha! But I need to get a good book and start reading instead. I miss it!

  15. Hi sweetness,

    I definitely get you and for me it’s always a long walk or going to the bookstore to find a good book. Usually just being alone and not checking my phone is good for me. Glad you were able to do so and Molly is just too cute 💕 Have a great weekend!!

    1. I so need to start reading again. My phone is more of a problem for me. It feels like a black hole. Once I get on it, I’m on it doing brainless things for way too long.

  16. Quiet time on my deck. A lunch or dinner with my husband or girlfriends. Doing a Bible study. Turning my phone to silent. Going to the gym. Being a mom is non stop. Lots of it is great, no complaints, but it can be exhausting. When you feel more rested and supported it makes you a better mom/wife.

    1. Quiet time on a deck sounds so nice. Sigh. We don’t have one right now, but we will have a patio at our new house so I look forward to some quiet time out there soon!

  17. Hi Ali! So glad you were able to have a little break and take time to do some things for yourself. You are so lovely and your Instagram stories always make me smile – thank you for all you do. The hard work you put into your blog does not go unnoticed. I have a few questions though, are you reading anything new lately? I always find that reading always helps me relax a bit at night or listening to Podcasts. Just take time to do one or two things for yourself each night whether it’s reading a book you love or journaling. Thank you again for all you do! We appreciate you so much!!

    1. Thank you for reading my blog! I love doing it but it is a lot of work. But work I love doing! I just need to balance a little better. And I don’t know any good books. I’m about to do a blog post to ask YOU guys for book recs! Check out that blog soon and hopefully others will give you soon ideas!

  18. Ali I have been following you since the bachelor. You are an amazing woman,mother, and wife. You absolutely need time to yourself just like any mom! You do an amazing job. When I was pregnant you helped me through alot by your Instagram posts etc so thank you momma💕

  19. I just bought this top and now so glad I did as it looks even more gorgeous on you then the model! I don’t have any advice on how to recharge since I actually need to do that for myself! Your post is definitely inspiring me to do so though as I feel like I am always on the go – working, being a mom to a 22 month old, taking care of our dogs, activities, etc. the list goes on! So thank you so much for this post – going to book a spa day!! 😉

  20. Hi ali!
    First of all I have to say, I love your style. You always look so nice and put together. Secondly, I think that you are an amazing mom to Molly (and Owen) and wife to Kevin. You do so much for you little family. You totally deserved an Me day.

    * I love to go to Starbucks, get a drink. And then go to a park and either people watch or read. (My fav Me day thing)

  21. Hey Ali! I’ve kept up with you ever since your season on the bachelorette and I just adore you! You are such an inspiration!! I always look forward to reading your blog and watching your instagram stories. You seem so happy! It really is a breath of fresh air! I especially love this post because it’s so important to have some “me time”. Thank you for being true to yourself and for being such a great role model for women!

  22. Hi Ali ❤️
    Well done for taking some time out for yourself. I’m a wife, a mum of a 7 year old boy, stepmum to a 17 year old girl, and I work full time. My hubby works full time also and most weekends, so time out for me is rare but when I do get it, it’s like a reset button has been hit!
    I love your blog and your Instagram posts! Your family is adorable!
    Sending you best wishes all the way from Tasmania, Australia 🇦🇺 ❤️

  23. Such a lovely top Ali. Glad you’re feeling better and that your sweet husband suggested you take some well deserved time for yourself. I love reading as a form of relaxing – nothing like a good book to give you a bit of escapism.

  24. Hi Ali,

    Thank you as always for sharing your life with us and, in this case, being even more vulnerable and honest. This community is here to support you and lift you up, just as reading your posts like this help to life us up and make us feel less alone.

    For me, while binging tv and sleep is wonderful, it sometimes numbs what I’m really feeling. It sounds like this trip on your own was a great step in being still with yourself and your emotions and not hiding from them. We all, as does your caring and supportive family, support you taking regular time and steps towards self care. (Therapy is the best gift I ever gave myself, by the way. I truly believe every person deserves a therapist and to dedicate that time to their own well being.)

    Your family is beautiful and it’s obvious how much you treasure them. Trust in their love and that they want you to be the best and healthiest version of you. (For your first read post-baby, Love Warrior is a gorgeous story of self discovery of a wife and mother of 3.)

    We support you! You got this, mama!

    Maggie

  25. Hi Ali,

    I noticed you said you like to read. Not having time can be challenging. I am from Waco, Texas and recently moved to Beaumont Texas. One of my favorite things to read is Magnolia Journal. I given it as gifts several times and they loved it! It’s penned by Joanna Gaines and I never pick it up that I don’t find myself breathing a little lighter with in just a few minutes. It’s only published a few times a year and also…it looks lovely sitting on a coffee table or in a basket. I love that you are also relatable; not to mention just darling. Absolutely darling! God’s blessings to you and your family. 💕 Cindy McClain @iamcindymcclain

  26. Ali,
    Love your honesty on your Blog! it must be so hard to to put yourself out there in the public eye and constantly have to be judged for the way you live your life! It happens to everyone, especially mama’s, the judgement is unreal! I choose to ignore all of it!

    And I am right there with you! With a almost 15 month old, working full time and being 25 weeks pregnant with our second I find myself hitting a wall by the end of the week. My husband forced me to get into bed before 8pm Saturday night and I slept all the way until almost 8am the next morning. So glad I did that to recharge. We are also finally taking our very first night away since having our son. I am really looking forward to it! Doesn’t sound like you and Kevin have done that yet. I know you don’t have a lot of family close by, but I highly suggest it, even if its just one night somewhere close by!

  27. This is such a good post. I think as moms it is really easy to let ourselves fall to the bottom of the priority list, and yet I’ve learned that taking care of myself is the only way to ensure that I’m being a good wife and mom. For a splurge, I love to get a massage. But I agree, the main thing is being out of the house alone and without an agenda!

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