My husband surprised with a copper-roofed bird house and bird feeder (from NC Bird Guy, if you’re wondering!) and a Loewe bag I’d been ogling for my birthday. He nailed it; “birds and bags” could be an alt title for this blog, right? Ha. One of my friends made a comment on what a thoughtful gift-giver he is, and asked — “what have been some of his best gifts?”
In truth, his best and most precious gifts have been:
“Why not you?” energy
Hand squeezes in the pew at a funeral — and while on the operating table delivering our babies — and any time I have been in public with a lump in my throat and a need for reassurance
The latitude — encouragement, even — to change
“I’m here whenever you need me”
Immediate, unquestioning solidarity against anyone unkind, slighting, or dismissive toward me
The courage and space to pursue a non-traditional career that made very little money for years
“You look beautiful” when I was post-partum and bleary and alien to my own body
Companionship that asks for nothing
Patience and gentleness when I’m at my worst (the softest kind of love)
What are the best things (physical or not) that your spouse or partner has given you?
Post-Scripts.
+Marriage is…(a lot of things).
+Do you consider yourself creative?
+On being a hummingbird vs. a jackhammer.
Shopping Break.
+BIG sale at Ann Mashburn — 30% off some fabulous finds! I especially love their shirtdresses, like this silk shantung and this more casual plaid, but some other incredible finds worth a look: this short-sleeved tweed jacket for your work wardrobe, this pleated gingham skirt for family photos, these blush basket-weave mules, this ric-rac-trim caftan, and this orchid suede bucket bag.
+OMG this new arrival at J. Crew! Just finished reading My Problematic Summer Romance, which is set in Sicily, so of course the name of the dress leapt off the page at me!
+One of my girlfriends came over this weekend wearing the cutest Marea dress and we were both saying how much we LOVE this brand. They started with just blockprint dresses but have really evolved to carry great basics (especially striped sweaters and pointelle tees) that are very thoughtfully designed and beautifully made. I’m currently eyeing this top and pants set. I also have this patterned tote which I’ve been using a lot this summer for the kids’ stuff, travel, etc!
+My favorite brush for applying loose powder. My mother bought me a set of LM makeup brushes probably…15 years ago? 18 years ago? And I still have them all and love them. This brush is great for loose powder and I absolutely will not use anything but this for eyeshadow. Legit have had it 18 years! While writing this little blurb, I discovered they sell a travel brush set that is currently 50% off and had to order it! So convenient! Will just keep it in my travel cosmetic bag.
+Love this polished white top. Speaking of polished tops, if you’re looking for something new and different for your work wardrobe, consider TWP’s Next Ex button down with a pair of high-waisted trousers. So chic. The shape is beyond fabulous. Also looks great with a pair of white jeans!
+$20 crochet cover up. Pair with a chocolate suit like this or this.
+I have been hearing the best things about the beauty brand St. Jane. My girlfriend gave me a little gift set for my birthday and I’m officially intrigued. People love this award-winning serum! I want to try it!
+Speaking of luxe skincare, it’s been a minute since I’ve raved about this rosewater spray. THE BEST. My husband loves it too. Softens and hydrates skin – great to soften makeup after application or refresh skin in the afternoon and before bed.
+Chic boxy linen gingham top for a great price.
+Cutest floral toddler backpack.
+Biscuit Home has the most charming table linens! Love these!
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