Fashion can be a tricky thing when you are a stay at home mom and under a tight budget, especially when you have a couple social things on the horizon and want to look your best. Since that doesn’t mean running out to the store for that new top or fun accessory like it used to, I considered it a fun challenge when I had to look in my own closet for something cute and stylish. I had just put Ava down for bed, was in an old T-shirt, worn leggings and had about five minutes before I had to be out the door to go to dinner with friends so I was real happy when I threw this outfit together in about 5 minutes. I wanted to find something casual but wanted to dress it up a little, as I was headed to a popular restaurant downtown.

Here’s the outfit rundown… The jacket I got a couple of years ago from Limited, the top is Lauren Conrad’s from Kohl’s, the white tank top underneath is from Loft Outlet, the jeans are the same jeans from an earlier post I bought at Hollister, boots are from Aldo, purse is from H&M and necklace is from A&F (this and the jeans are the only items actually purchased in the year 2014).

Fall has to be my favorite season. The weather is usually perfect, mid-70s with the humidity factor removed, the leaves are changing to some of the most eye-catching colors, I was married in the fall and my daughter was born in the fall. Not only that but Fall always makes me feel adventurous and energized to do those classic seasonal past times, such as going to a pumpkin patch and apple picking, which is exactly what we did today. We had a two hour window in between Ava’s morning and afternoon nap to take advantage of the beautiful day so we made our way to Lynd’s Fruit Farm, along with the rest of Columbus based on how crowded it was. I am always impressed at the selection of home-grown, home-made goodies they have for sale. I inevitably end up leaving with the need to jar, bake or pickle something in bulk but luckily the half hour drive home gets rid of that need for me. In the meantime, I am happy to enjoy the fruits of other people’s labor.

I also use this season as an excuse to consume as many pumpkin flavored things as possible…namely the pumpkin spice latte at Starbucks, Panera’s Autumn Squash Soup with Pumpkin Seeds and I’ve decided to attempt to make pumpkin cookies. We shall see. HAPPY FALL!

p.s. Is it okay to already be jealous of your daughter’s clothes? I’m in love with her sweet little olive jacket in this photo.

I have always been a fan of getting new school supplies. Something about getting that new folder, trapper keeper (are those even around anymore?), or pens and pencils that made me more excited to learn or it would at least start out that way. Even though it has been a while since I have had to purchase school supplies, doesn’t mean I have to miss out on the fun!

I saw this cute pencil bag and change purse at Target the other day for like $4 and couldn’t resist. The pencil bag is now where I keep Ava’s snacks or an energy bar for moi and the change purse is now where I keep my chapsticks, since they were always getting lost at the bottom of my bags. Gotta love a little repurposing.