Stepping Out

Today, I’m teaming up with Zappos and Crocs sharing how we welcome summer break at one of our favorite hangout spots!

Spring marks the start of my new year for a few reasons. The weather gets a whole lot nicer, thunderstorms start rolling in, the grass almost glows a vibrant green, and flowers come into bloom. Spring starts the countdown to 100 days of recess, lazy days, and pure unadulterated fun. Spring makes me incredibly happy with summer to follow.

Around this time last year we had a visit to the zoo and a camping trip under our belts. I’ve been feeling the pressure to get a move on, but I’m taking each day as it comes. I’m moving at a different pace, working on home projects while energized and making sure home is a place we don’t mind returning to. You ever go on an amazing trip, return home and want to do an about-face? Working on changing that.

We’ve started our outdoor adventures by hitting the local parks. Ogden Gardens is a favorite spot of ours because of its lush trees and Japanese inspired garden. It could either spark wanderlust or hold you off until your next international adventure. At any rate, being there feels good. It’s a hot spot for photographers and weddings for obvious reasons. We’ve taken some of our best family photographs there.

The boys feel like they’re on an exploration trekking down the trails. When I told them that we were going to a park, Jayden asked if there’d be a playground with people there. We may look into putting him in an activity so he can spend more time with kids his age. While a playground wasn’t on today’s course, nor were people, both of the boys had a blast running through the trails, jumping off of rocks and pretending to be in an action short. I stopped for a few photos as the boys played. I’m happy to be in more photos after being behind the camera for so long. Having a new look doesn’t hurt either. Daddy G has officially been promoted to Instagram Husband and will put up with my shameless shenanigans. Because.

Having a fun little “caption this” challenge over here.

I will never tire of spending time outdoors… during perfect weather conditions. I’d more than love to live somewhere warm and sunny year-round. A girl can dream. Until then, we’ll take advantage of the season while it’s here, getting out as much as possible. Over the last few years of trying to get out more, I’ve developed a strong appreciation for simple shoes. Everyone’s moods are much better when the boys are able to quickly get into their shoes without help. Crocs have been such a convenience for us. Last year, the boys wore their Crocs with everything, including socks. Fashion rules, who needs them?

I have to thank my friends at Zappos for making sure the boys were set with Crocs this summer. Each of the boys got the Swiftwaters in Black and Mushroom. Crocs are Juicy’s jam because they encourage his little toddler independence. Jayden’s pretty happy that he gets a break from tying shoes for a while.

Crocs has been on a roll and I’m impressed by their introduction of fashion forward styles in addition to the classic clogs they’re known for. I had to have the Isabella Flats for nostalgia’s sake. The design combines two memorable components from my childhood; the jelly sandal and the floral cutouts reminiscent of sandals my grandmother used to wear. Loooove them.

Know what else I love? Zappos customer service. Their social media channels are proof. I’ve been following them for years and they are a personable team, always eager to help customers. Free shipping and returns are the icing on the cake. I actually had to return a pair of shoes because I felt the color was too close to my skin tone. I hesitated to send them back because returns are such a headache. I sent them back anyway and had a new pair in just a few days. It was so worth it.

I’m rambling.

I’m looking forward to all of what Summer holds for us all from trekking the trails to visiting playgrounds with people. All we have to do is step out and find the fun.

What I’m Wearing

Pixie Denim Jacket
360 wigs 
Distressed Jeans (similar)
Isabella Flats
Dresses
Anklet (similar)
Toe Nail Color
Happiness (not for sale)