Tag Archives: think spring

Apr20

Spring Green OOTD

Posted on April 20, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Hello everyone and welcome to a brand new OOTD here on lifewithlilred!! This past week, it was absolutely glorious in Ohio and it finally felt like spring. However, this has since been redacted because the pictures taken on Saturday was the last of the heat wave. It is now cold, rainy, and a little bit snowy here in the 330 and it feels cruel and unusual after days in the sun soaking up that Vitamin D! Let’s reminisce on the spring flowers and warmth by checking out some pics and discussing this look further while I freeze in my apartment:

Who? What? Wear?

Wrap Sweater: Caution To The Wind, TJMaxx

Lace Cami Top: mittoshop, French Rooster

Blue Jean Shorts: American Eagle Outfitters

Hoop Earrings: Argentino Vivo, TJMaxx

Cage Wedges: Juicy Couture, Kohl’s

Rings: PacSun, Target

The first few weeks of spring can be really awkward to dress for because you never know what kind of weather you’re going to get! Chilly mornings can either turn into hot afternoons or just more cold. It was about seventy degrees on OOTD day with crisp winds blowing occasionally, but I still figured that I could get away with shorts. To achieve a bit of balance in the warmth department, I wanted a light, long sleeved top and began building my outfit under those parameters.

I have been creating OOTDs almost weekly since the new year as per my 2023 blogging goals and, I’ll admit, I was feeling fairly uninspired while shopping in my closet. Although I have a decent amount of clothing for any type of weather, my wardrobe favors the fall and winter. The heat wave we experienced was awesome, but my tunnel vision for winter cold still wasn’t lifted quite yet and I needed to clear the fog before proceeding. Once I began thinking spring after a work week in jeans and hoodies, I was ready to see my warmer weather clothing with new eyes.

Most of the long sleeved tops that I have feature a fall palette so I was very happy to have rediscovered my wrap sweater by Caution To The Wind. I had all but forgotten it because this top was meant to be worn with a sports bra while ice skating, then I stopped skating. It was just what I needed, though, so I made some adjustments. I love how light and form fitting this top is and it is an ideal one for spring. The fern green and cream makes for such a rich palette and I paired it with my lace oyster shell cami underneath. Not a perfect match, but the cami was in a similar color family to the cream stripes and it worked while adding a sweet feminine pop.

For shorts, I went with an undistressed pair of midrises from American Eagle Outfitters. I love my distressed shorties, but the pattern on my top was somewhat busy and I didn’t want that conflict of visual interest between the two. A no muss no fuss option was better and I thought the simple blue jean shorts looked adorable with such a cutesy top. Remember, less is nine times out of ten more when building outfits so if you ever feel like any pieces are clashing against each other; you’re probably right. 🙂

In the accessory department, I chose one of my favorite pairs of hoop earrings by Argentino Vivo. The size of these medium hoops was exactly what I wanted. They enhanced the cleavage and long neckline I was working with as they matched up with the length of my hair. As a shorter gal, I am always looking to add length to my looks and, other than killer heels, one of the best ways to do this is through expertly placed jewelry. Accessories are just as important as the top or pants you have on! Once again, to keep my neck uncovered, I went necklace free and chose several statement rings to add some bling. I love the double ring with the rhinestone fern!

Finally, for shoes, I put on my army green cage wedges by Juicy Couture. These shoes are old as dirt, but I just can’t part with them! I had a few other pairs of army green heels in mind, however, all of them hit further up the leg and that wasn’t going to work with short shorts. The Juicy Coutures hit slightly above the ankle, which was much more like it! And, of course, they played to the color palette that I had established.

This Spring Green OOTD got me in the spring state of mind a little too late in the game before the cold hit, but that’s alright; it was nice while it lasted lol. Keep it posted for the blooper reel from this shoot tomorrow!

Which seasons does your wardrobe favor? Do you switch out and store clothing as the seasons change? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Apr3

Finally, Flowers!

Posted on April 3, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! Spring and autumn are the seasons when your favorite Lil Red blogger thrives. I live for not too hot/not too cold weather as I don’t do well in extreme summer temps and I am a huge freeze baby come winter! While I love the weather that comes with spring and fall, I love the way the world looks even more; Blooming flowers and trees coming back to life and leaves changing colors and Halloween decor. While driving this past week, I have noticed lots of pretty spring flowers popping up. And, finally on Friday, flowers were in my parents’ yard too. It made me so happy!

After a winter that felt like an eternity due to crap weather and a massive amount of stress, these past few days of true springtime have hit different and in the best way. Although it has been technically spring on the calendar, I don’t consider it to be spring until the weather and the outside world reflects it. Seeing the sun and feeling its warmth, brisk winds, and new life growing all around has been so invigorating and healing. While everything still isn’t awesome in my world, it makes it a bit easier to go about the day with a newfound pep in my step.

I look forward to seeing flowers in my parents’ yard every year because it is a perfect reminder of better times ahead. It’s hard not to smile and feel hopeful when tiny blooms and bursts of color are making their way onto the scene. It is also a great time to reflect on how flowers grow. Despite heavy rainfalls, grey days, and unstable temperatures, flowers still grow and turn into something beautiful when they open up towards the sun. It’s a great metaphor to help myself remember that when things absolutely suck, there is still going to be a light at the end of the tunnel. ❤

I have been waiting for springtime basically since winter began and all I have to say is: Bring it on. Here’s to warm days, birds chirping, and flowers blooming everywhere!

What is your favorite flower? What is your favorite part about the spring? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan12

Think Spring With These Backyard Projects

Posted on January 12, 2023 by lifewithlilred

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Think Spring With These Backyard Projects

We are in that stage of winter when we have officially reached the “blah” phase. We’re cooped up, nothing is appealing on streaming services, and the warmer days of spring are heavy on the mind. While we still have a few months of winter to go, it never hurts to start daydreaming now! Let’s explore some backyard projects that you can get to work on as soon as the snow thaws so you can rid yourself of cabin fever:

Pergola Party:

What is your ideal outdoor space? Lush greenery? A garden, pool, or patio? Breathtaking pergolas for your backyard? I can see it now, a barbecue on the warm days of spring and cozy cocktails at night. Pergolas turn any backyard into the ultimate hang out that you can deck out with furniture, grills, and games. Deck out in fairy lights for best results and perfect selfie lighting.

Swimming Pool:

A swimming pool in the backyard really is the tops and will turn your house into the place to be all summer long. Pools are great for parties, exercise, and relaxing. Not to mention that they are a huge property value and curb appeal boost. Remember if you are getting a pool installed or already have one that maintenance is key. If you don’t have the time or energy to properly care for your pool, you might want to look into some services like this https://pinnaclepoolservice.com/pool-service/texas/plano/ to keep it in excellent condition.

Speaking of maintenance, sometimes a problem with your pool isn’t as visible as debris on the water’s surface. It could be a leak which can be very difficult to pinpoint an exact location. A leak in your pool can turn your backyard escape into a money pit quickly and needs to be tended to immediately. Take the time to research “pool leak detection cape town” (or your local area) so you can always have a trusted team on standby should you notice your water levels lowering. Once the problem is solved, you can go back to making a splash all summer long!

Fairy Garden:

An especially fun idea for those with little ones is to create a fairy garden together. Your local craft stores are sure to sell fairy garden supplies like toadstools, houses, characters, and scenery. Spoiler alert: It’s going to be adorable. Take a trip with your kids and create the fairy garden of your dreams! You can even create a special backstory for each of your characters. Keep an eye out because your garden is sure to attract all kinds of wild life.

Bird Feeding Stations:

Okay, let’s be real for a second – nature windows are awesome!! Set up a bird feeding station in front of one of your lower floor windows and enjoy! The entertainment is in itself because there is never a dull moment when it comes to birds and squirrels. Anyone who says it isn’t fun to watch is lying. Include bird baths and feeders at various heights for the ultimate effect!

Fire Pit:

It is so easy to want to burst down the doors on the first days of spring but it is still going to be cold, regardless of the date on the calendar. Beat the chill in the air with a fire pit, which will be so amazing for hosting outdoor movie nights, cocktail hour, or afternoon coffee. How about hot chocolate and s’mores during a brisk night? Fire pits are a great investment for all year round enjoyment. You can even add more of a wow factor to your gatherings if you enter a search for “fire pit glass near me“. Adorning your fire pit with colorful, heat resistant glass will provide a unique pop that is sure to impress and enhance the atmosphere.

Think spring by envisioning your perfect backyard with the tips above. It will be here before we know it!

Mar29

New Love On A Hanger Skirt

Posted on March 29, 2022 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! My all time favorite TJMaxx is closing down to make room for a shiny new one and it was bittersweet during my last shopping trip there. Bitter because I will miss the store terribly and sweet because I got some super cute new goodies! I wasn’t planning on purchasing anything for myself (Which is always how it goes!) but when I found this adorable skirt by Love On A Hanger, I figured it couldn’t hurt to try it on:

The shape of this skirt is my absolute favorite and I have several of them. Despite this, I always find myself buying more because I love them oh so much. The high rise fit with mini skirt length is so flattering and it makes for the most darling OOTDs come spring and summer. All you need is a crop or tank top, bold platforms, and a floppy hat and you are sure to turn heads!

While I, truthfully, don’t need anymore of these skirts, I justify my obsession by telling myself that I don’t have one in this pattern lol. And, that’s exactly what I told myself when I saw this Love On A Hanger number at TJMaxx. I fell in love with the canvas like material, springy flowers, and all of the OOTD possibilities that came with it.

It might be too cold to wear my new skirt right now but, trust and believe, that I will be busting it out as soon as the temperature rises. I tried my skirt on in the fitting room with a plain white tank top and it looked perfect. Once my pink Marc Fisher platforms are on and some colorful accessories, I will definitely feel like Spring Fling Queen!

In the timeless words of Meryl Streep in The Devil Wears Prada: “Florals…for spring? How…groundbreaking.” But, if it’s not broken then don’t fix it! 😀

What is your favorite style of skirt? Do you have a piece of clothing that you like to buy in multiple patterns? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb9

Spring Flowers To Brighten Your Day

Posted on February 9, 2021 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! Every time I show up at my parents’ house, there is always the most beautiful bouquet of flowers in a vase on the kitchen table. Not only is my dad an extremely skilled gardener but he also can prepare arrangements of flowers like nobody’s business. Whenever I go to chez parents, I look forward to what flowers are going to be on the table next and I was delighted by brightly colored and oh so spring tulips the last time I was there. Check it out:

Even though we’re barely into February and still have quite a bit of winter to go, it feels so good to think about spring and all of the exciting things that come with it. Warmer weather means flowers, light jackets, and the opportunity to meet with friends outside. It feels so far away but, I swear, seeing these sunburst tulips made me feel like spring was just around the corner – despite the fact that there was a lot of snow on the ground!

My dad has been bringing home beautiful flowers for everyone to enjoy (especially my mom!) for as long as I can remember. The tulips have easily been my favorite arrangement in a while, as I’m partial to his summer flower bouquets, and I just had to share them with all of you. And, just maybe it will help to put a spring in your step on this cold winter’s day. ❤

What is your favorite flower? What makes you think of spring? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Mar30

Smile! Spring Flowers Are Blooming

Posted on March 30, 2020 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! Although times are crazy and the norm is now staying hunkered down to help ease the coronavirus, it’s important to find joy in nature more than ever. I, myself, take delight in seeing the blooms of spring flowers poking up from the ground and a few crocuses have made their guest appearance in my parent’s yard. I was so tickled to see the sweet, small flowers in yellow, purple, and white that I just had to snap some pics:

When I see a tiny flower’s presence among all of the dead leaves and dry grass, it instantly fills me with hope. One little bloom struggled to get enough sunshine, rain, and nutrition to sprout up and say hello but it pulled through and now looks so beautiful. One little pop of colorful flowers makes me instantly feel like spring is here and that makes me happy.

The winter blues have went away and now it’s time for sunshine, rainbows, and all of the glory that comes with spring. Despite the unease that we all feel right now in the midst of the coronavirus, be sure to take notice of all of the exciting things happening in nature the next time you take a walk. I’m sure it will quickly put a fresh spring in your step!

What is your favorite part about spring? What flowers are blooming in your neck of the woods? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb15

Ready, Set, Spring Clean!

Posted on February 15, 2020 by lifewithlilred

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Hi! Although the winter season in Ohio hasn’t been awful this year, things took a drastic turn into freezing rain and snow and it has me eagerly awaiting the warmer weather. Spring is (somewhat) just around the corner, which means that sunshine, flowers, and oh yeah – spring cleaning is near!

Is cleaning house the best part of the transition from winter to spring? Not by a long shot. But, it sure feels good once you’re all done! So, let’s go over some pro tips to get the process started:

Take Inventory:

Before you start your cleaning, take a look around your cupboards to see what you have and what you need to finish your task. You will totally lose all of the motivation you had to sweep the floors once you realize you would need to run to the store to grab more liquid for your Swiffer. Complete the chores you can do with the cleaning products you have and then set aside some time to restock your supplies as needed.

Take Your Time:

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to mean a whole day dedicated to scrubbing, dusting, and reorganizing. That’s just too much for anyone. Rather, go from one room or area at a time so you don’t feel overwhelmed. Set aside an hour or two for each project until your whole home is spick and span and don’t forget to play some great tunes to get you grooving. I promise, it will make your deep clean go by so much quicker!

Decluttering Is Key:

In my apartment, there really isn’t much space where I can place all of my crap that I collected throughout the day. So, my kitchen table ends up being covered in paperwork, jewelry, and whatever else I didn’t feel like returning to its proper home. If this sounds familiar to you, then really try and focus on tidying up these spaces and keeping them as such. I know it’s hard but nothing feels better than not having to hunt for something you placed down weeks ago and a kitchen table to actually eat on doesn’t hurt, either. 😉

Decluttering Is STILL Key:

I find that it’s much easier to do chores once all of the unnecessary stuff has been removed. Take a look around your home and evaluate everything there. Is your Christmas decor still up? Maybe it’s time to clear that away to make room for the Easter Bunny. Is your mantle and the knick knacks on it coated in dust? Take the time to remove and clean them individually and see if there are any you could do without or replace with different decor to freshen things up.

Decluttering is essential whether it is with clearing up little odds and ends or bigger pieces of furniture, a closet clear out, or going through old storage. If you are clearing out larger items, make sure you schedule for rubbish removal cheltenham or your local area to haul everything away.

Keep Your Cool:

Cleaning sucks but it doesn’t need to be stressful. If you create a game plan and stick to it, your home will be spotless in no time. Delegate tasks if you have any helpers around and don’t take any breaks until the chore is complete. Because, believe me, once you watch just “one episode” of your favorite show, you’ll be posted up on the couch binge watching instantly!

Ready, Set, Spring Clean with the pro tips above!

When do you start your spring cleaning? Which part of your home needs some extra love during your cleaning sesh? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Mar15

Refresh The Parts Of Your Home That Fade First

Posted on March 15, 2019 by lifewithlilred

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Refresh The Parts Of Your Home That Fade First

It’s a sad feeling when the home you once loved and cherished is fading away, but it will no doubt get to the point sooner or later. New home or not, the general wear and tear that it faces will lead you to want something more. You might even consider moving homes to something a bit more modern but, even then, the cracks will begin to show eventually, and it could be one of the biggest regrets of your life. Because we know how easy it is to think that a new home will be one without problems but, in fact, they can sometimes have more!

So, when you do feel like your home is beginning to fade, you need to think about how you can perk it back up again and make it look like a million dollars. It’s easy enough to bring an aging home back to life, you just have to think about the parts of your home that are fading first and what you’re going to be able to do about it. Luckily for you, we’re on hand to help and we think these top tips will bring a fading home back to life.

The Windows & Doors:

If you think about how often you mess with all of the windows and doors in your home, it should come as no surprise to you that they’re going to be one of the first things that fades away. It’s so easy for them to become chipped or damaged, especially the fragile paint that you’ll usually find surrounding your windows. Vinyl windows are the best thing that you can bring into your home and they’re going to look so good compared to your old ones if you feel like they’re wasting away. Plus, having new windows and frames installed is only going to improve the green side of your home, meaning you might just notice those bills dropping a bit more than you thought!

The Interior Decor:

The interior decor is going to be something you hold very close to your heart. You have your own style and we’re not about to try and change that. But, we do think that it’s so important that you take some time to update it yearly. Wallpaper may last two years or so, but after that it just becomes outdated. And if you inspect it closely enough, you will notice the wear and tear. So keeping it fresh every single year is a must and you have to admit that redecorating isn’t that expensive and is so fun once you get into it. You’ll often find that fresh decor is all you’re going to need to spruce your home up.

The Vibe:

The vibe of your home was probably something electric when you first started out. You had so much going on, so much happiness, and there just would have been a buzz about it. But, now, things can easily change when you realize how hard owning a home is and how the novelty wears off after a few months. But, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t host monthly gatherings to keep a good vibe going in your home. As long as you surround it with fun, you will feel great!

With spring just around the corner, give your home a little makeover and watch it come back to life in full bloom.

Featured Image By: Pixabay

Feb17

Guest Bloggers Unite!

Posted on February 17, 2019 by lifewithlilred

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Helloooo! We are more than halfway through with February and, believe it or not, spring will be here before we know it. At least, I have to keep telling myself that! But, there’s no reason why the blogosphere can’t feel as springy as possible. So, if you would like to relay on a spring themed guest post to lifewithlilred, we can spread warm thoughts like wild fire! If you would like to be featured on my page for the day with a springy post, please email me at: sarah.mush6794@gmail.com . 🙂

These posts can be anything from an OOTD and flower planting advice to an MOTD or spring cleaning tips. I can’t wait to hear from all of you! Much love. -Sarah

Mar29

Spring Crocuses

Posted on March 29, 2018 by lifewithlilred

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Hello!! With hopefully the last snow of the season behind us in Ohio (But, who am I kidding, we’ll probs get at least one more!), the temps have been raising to a comfortable fifty degrees. With that increase and some extra sunshine, I found some more crocuses in my yard popping up when I walked the dogs this weekend. Seeing freshly sprouted flowers just makes me happy, and I’m sure that plenty of you are the same, so take a look:

Instead of just the yellow crocuses that were sprouting up last time, I had the pleasure of seeing white and purple blooms peeking out beneath the winter debris. The white crocuses are happily embracing the sunshine, while the three purples ones are so close to opening up and doing the same. I can’t wait for when they do!

What is your favorite flower? Are there any blooms popping up in your yard? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

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