Site icon Magpie by Jen Shoop

Offroading.

car offroading in hills

for Landon

I felt the friction at the start,

The wheels spinning, and the engine straining,

Across gravel or branch or mud.

But “Gypsy” against the roar of the open windows offered a mirror:

Her face says freedom
With a little fear

And I felt us disappear into the foothills,

Pulling off into the American hornbeams and blackgums of the Virginia countryside,

Gypsy souls in search.

We were so young then: bare feet and bathing suits and Slurpees from the 7-11 on The Corner —

I did not know then

that we were rehearsing for what would come,

nor how far the offroad tires would take us.

Post-Scripts.

+Put differently: “It’s OK to take the long road.”

+Melencolia, ebenezers, and my longtime experiment with language.

+More on my love story with my husband.

Shopping Break.

+A fab fair isle sweater — this one only $100. (You know I love a good fair isle.)

+This jumpsuit is fun with clogs for everyday wear. Currently 40% off if you are a loyalty member, as is this popular patchwork dress and their famous Lucie dress (ideal for Thanksgiving!)

+I am obsessed with these bow embellished flats!

+This black ponte top is like a dressed-up Dudley Stephens — looks polished enough for work, but comfortable.

+Like the idea of this knit gilet over a striped button-down or tissue turtleneck.

+My girlfriend Jaci wore this top to coffee the other day and looked so chic in it! Love all the details!

+Chic (affordable!) woven ottomans for the foot of the bed, living room, play area, etc.

+These knits are great layering pieces – love the button detail at the cuff, too.

+Sharing a full guide to Halloween costumes and finds soon but this H&M cape is adorable if you have a tiny witch or wizard.

+This eyelet dress is gorgeous. Love it styled with the cowboy boot!

+Another great way to get the Khaite cardigan look for less.