Happy happy FRIDAY, friends!
I hope you had a great first week of May!
As always, I’m linking up with my friends Andrea and Erika and sharing this week’s FAVORITE THINGS!
Starting with…
On Wednesday, Smith had his last orchestra concert. Orchestra is a big commitment in high school, so Smith made the decision to end his official orchestra career this month. With football, rowing and his academic load next year, he didn’t think he could do orchestra too. It’s so bittersweet because we have loved the orchestra program at his school, but I remind myself often that just because he’s not a part of the orchestra doesn’t mean he has to stop playing the instrument.
It’s just hard to believe that…
…this seven year old boy is now going into high school…
These babies don’t keep.
Watching Smith play in the middle school orchestra these last three years (and just watching him learn the violin in general these last seven years) is my favorite thing.
My second Fave this week will surprise no one…
We are smitten with our Charlie.
As I type these words, all four dogs are sleeping in my office, and this is a photo that I just took of these two right under my feet. These two are biologically related (on the paternal side of things), and so far, so good with introducing the fourth dog into the mix. I kind of feel like I did when I had babies. Kensington was our hardest baby. We didn’t know what we were doing, and I swear to you, she could tell. It got easier with Smith, a lot easier with Ashby, and Madeley was so simple we didn’t miss a beat. Things seem to be working well now that we are all old pros at this dog business (and now that the dogs are used to cohabitating with other dogs).
All three of these peeps were thrilled that a new episode of Bluey was out 🙂 .
But for real, is there anything cuter than a sleeping puppy?
Speaking of which…
…I went in to wake up Ashby for school and grab Charlie. She was still snoozing, but he popped up when I walked in the room. These two have been thick as thieves.
‘Tis May which means it’s…
…time to pull out my FAVORITE TENNIS SKIRT! (By the way, MY GAUZE TOP is on major sale and comes in two other colors!)
I have this skirt in THREE colors…
…and wore it on REPEAT all last summer. It was my go to skirt all season long. I found it perfect for running errands, using it as a pool cover up, comfortably working from home, walking my dogs…I really, really love this one! I was slow to get on the tennis skirt trend as I’m petite and so many of these skirts are too “pleat-y” for me. I don’t need all of those extra pleats around my already short torso, but this one only has a few pleats in the back which I think makes it extra cute since it’s not bulky. It comes in OVER THIRTY COLORS! My WHITE TANK is from last year. It’s been updated for this season.
My summer uniform 🙂 . I love THIS BLACK TANK (it comes in other colors!)
Another cute thing to remind you guys about is…
…THE CUTEST TOP on the internet 🙂 . I promise you, every single time I wear it, I get compliments! It’s only $25 and also comes in so many colors!
And speaking of colors…
…your friendly reminder that these “dupe” SHORTS are amazing!
They come in so many fun colors (and neutrals!), have a nice high waist, are lined…I love them!
And MY FLAG TANK in case you’re preppin’ for the patriotic holidays 🙂 .
Speaking of prepping…
Whether you need a gift for a grad or your mom, I rounded up a few of my faves!
You guys, my lists are really SOLID! I am super proud of them if I do say so myself 😉 .
First up, the grads…
#1: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) Wireless Earbuds
#2: Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose Portable Compact Emergency First Aid Kit, 160 pc
#3: Car Emergency Safety Kit Bag with Portable Air Compressor
#4: Anker 621 Magnetic Battery (MagGo), 5000mAh Magnetic Wireless Portable Charger with USB-C Cable
#5: She’s Birdie–The Original Personal Safety Alarm for Women by Women
#6: CARTMAN Orange 39-Piece Tool Set – General Household Hand Tool Kit with Plastic Toolbox Storage Case
#7: Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB)
#8: BAGSMART Toiletry Bag Travel Bag with Hanging Hook, Water-resistant Makeup Cosmetic Bag Travel Organizer
#9: Cooluli Mini Fridge Electric Cooler and Warmer (4 Liter / 6 Can): AC/DC Portable Thermoelectric System w/ Exclusive On the Go USB Power Bank Option (Pink)
#10: Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw for Sports and Travel
#11: NORI Press Iron & Steamer for Clothes | Lightweight Compact Travel Steamer & Iron, Dual-Voltage
#12: Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle – Stainless Steel
#13: Dash Rapid Egg Cooker: 6 Egg Capacity Electric Egg Cooker for Hard Boiled Eggs, Poached Eggs, Scrambled Eggs, or Omelets
#14: Ninja Air Fryer that Cooks, Crisps and Dehydrates, with 4 Quart Capacity
#15: Amazon Basics 30-Inch Hardside Spinner
#16: Travel Duffel Bag, Sports Tote Gym Bag, Shoulder Weekender Overnight Bag
#17: Topcee Weighted Blanket (20lbs 60″x80″ Queen Size) for Adult All-Season Summer Fall Winter Cooling Breathable Heavy Microfiber Material
#18: Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker, Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Brewer
And then, for the moms in your life…
#1: Mothers Day Unique Gifts for Mom, Customized Birth Month Flower Mothers Garden, Custom Canvas with Name Wall Art
#2: Everything is Mama
#3: Womens Mama Sweatshirt
#4: Marycele Candle Warmer Lamp, Electric Candle Lamp Warmer
#5: SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles
#6: Benevolence LA Mama Necklace Dainty Necklace | 14k Gold Dipped Necklaces for Women
#7: Koolaburra by UGG Women’s Burree Slipper
#8: LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask
#9: Kendra Scott Ari Heart Adjustable Length Pendant Necklace
#10: Lodge Enameled Dutch Oven, 6 Qt
#11: Ekouaer Pajamas Women’s Long Sleeve Sleepwear Soft Button Down Loungewear
#12: Slip Silk Contour Sleep Mask
#13: Kindle Paperwhite
#14: ZIMASILK 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase for Hair and Skin Health
#15: Flymiro Tri-fold Lighted Vanity Makeup Mirror with 3x/2x Magnification,21 LEDs Light and Touch Screen
#16: Aura Mason Smart Digital Picture Frame 9 Inch
#17: Simple Modern 40 oz Tumbler with Handle and Straw Lid
Hey, hey, its…
…my BOGG BAG HAPPY MAY GIVEAWAY!
You guys, this was so much fun!!! I am so happy that everyone seemed to like the way we did this giveaway. I will keep that mind moving forward as we have more to come this month!
Ready to know who the winner is?
Congratulations JENNIFER STRANGE!
You are our winner! I emailed you this morning, Jennifer. Please email me back ASAP to claim your prize.
More May giveaway fun to come!
Okay, if you missed my CINCO DE MAYO MADE EASY this week, go back and check out that post and make sure you see OUR EASY MARGARITA!
Your Cinco de Mayo weekend NEEDS THIS!!!
You can check out the simple steps HERE today as well.
And looky look…
I was looking back at my May content and saw the details from our trip to Turks & Caicos last May (we had the BEST time!) and then that made me reminisce about…
…this trip from Mexico in May 🙂 . Epic. This photo is EPIC!
Whether you want to visit Turks or Mexico or a cruise or Walt Disney World or Europe or Asia or wherever, WE WANT TO HELP! My travel agency plans trips on all sorts of budgets for all sorts of amazing clients, and we would love to work with you too. Simply complete an inquiry on our site to connect with us. WE LOVE WHAT WE DO!!
One more random photo I found while looking through the fun May content from years gone by…
These babies don’t keep! Where did my sweet tiny nugget go?! She’s about to be in FOURTH GRADE!
I hope you have a wonderful, wonderful weekend! I’ll see you back here TOMORROW for a fun bonus post! xx
Elspeth says
So many fun favorites and milestones!! Have a great weekend!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Lauren says
Hi! Can you share the link to the tank you wear with the skirts?
Mix and Match Mama says
I went back to look, and they’re all different brands. If you’ll let me know which one in particular (navy, white or black), I will find it for you!
Linda Rice says
I am also interested in the tank! Specifically, the black one you are wearing with the green skirt!
Mix and Match Mama says
I added it to the post!
Linda Rice says
Thank you!!
Lauren says
The black one please! The white one too.
Thank you!
Mix and Match Mama says
I added both to the post!!
Jess says
💛 literally wearing those same yellow shorts right now! Thank you for the recommendation last year, I’ve pretty much lived in these since then!!! 🙂
Elizabeth Feldpausch says
Such great gift ideas! My Amazon cart is full! Thank you for sharing
Erika Slaughter says
I am pumped it’s tennis skirt season again!!
Sheaffer says
I’ve never played tennis. I have no plans to start playing tennis. But DANG that skirt is cute. I think I’m going to make plans to wear a tennis skirt.
SS says
Shay,
How bittersweet for you and Smith… I am sure. I am glad that he is looking ahead and not spreading himself to thin. I just think of others who have been like… I can handle it all and then quit usually music in the middle when others are count on them. So kudos to him, and now maybe like you said it may be a stress reliever playing music.
We only have 2 dogs, but we got the baby a few yrs ago and about 6 months after getting her we brought her momma home. We always wonder if they know they are mother/daughter…if dogs could talk. Lol.
Have a great 1st weekend of May!!!
Tasha says
Hi Shay! Thanks for sharing! I don’t know if you have said this before but was the reason for going with a different dog breed with Yankee and what are some differences you notice between the breeds?
Mix and Match Mama says
I honestly can’t think of one thing about either breed that I like better/worse…they complement each other so well. Smith really wanted a labradoodle which which is why we used a friend’s breeder (she had two) and selected Yankee. I honestly don’t think you can go wrong with either. The size of the cotons are what really drew us in the first time and their temperament with kids, but our doodle has been precious.
Sandra Roberts says
My Mama is in Heaven this year, but I know she would have loved any of your Mom’s Day picks. I ordered the dutch oven for myself – I have been wanting one, and know for sure my Mama would tell me to get it.
Mix and Match Mama says
I am just so sorry for your loss. Sending you so much love. xx
SS says
Sandra,
Sending you big hugs. Tough to have these holidays without your person.
Colleen R says
So true- babies don’t keep! 😭
Love all the dogs!! So cute!! Glad they are all getting along!
Thanks for bringing a little sunshine to my morning!
Yolanda McLean says
Oh so bittersweet with the end of orchestra. He’s so smart to not spread himself too thin. Would there be an opportunity to play for a church orchestra or similar?
Mix and Match Mama says
Maybe? Right now, he wants a break from the structure of an orchestra, so that’s what we’re going to do.
JULIE BARBER says
I love your white long sleeve shirt. Where is it from?
Mix and Match Mama says
I just added it to the post too. I have this in two other colors from last year and wear it ALL THE TIME!
Beverly says
Happy Friday. your blog is my go. to place when I need to find something special. I am hoping you will help support a great cause: Lucy Belles Rainbow http://www.lucybellesrainbow.org
Here is a short clip that explains it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHaEeL6L9ro
This year for Mother’s Day we have teamed up with Kendra Scott Jewelry. If you shop, and yes there is a link for remote shopping, on Saturday May 11 20% of all jewelry sales will benefit Lucy Belles Rainbow.
I am hoping you will promote this on your blog. We provide art bags for kids fighting cancer, especially brain tumor patients at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Many thanks.
Shop for good at Kendra Scott Ardmore in support of Lucy Belle’s Rainbow! Enjoy sips, sweets, and community, while 20% of your Kendra Scott purchase benefits Lucy Belle’s Rainbow’s mission to bring the power of art and art therapy to children in cancer treatment.! Don’t miss the opportunity to check all the Mother’s Day gifts off your list & and give back to a meaningful community cause!
Can’t make the in-person celebration? Shop in support of the fundraiser at kendrascott.com between 5/10-5/12, using promo code GIVEBACK-GOMTM at checkout. When successfully utilized, the words “Shop for Good” will appear in red under each item in the cart.
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you so much for sharing!!
Beverly says
Kendra Scott has beautiful & affordable jewelry. It will make terrific Mother’s day gifts for all.
Gracie says
All your dog pictures are making me really want one 😂 My kids and I have been asking my husband for a while. Maybe if I spam him with your dog pictures he’ll finally give in!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Go ahead and get a pair 😉 .
Susie says
I love, love, love your doggie pictures and updates! Have a good weekend!
Jamie says
If music is a part of Smith’s soul, he will still make it a part of his life. My kids made the same decision to give up their instruments in high school, but it is still a part of who they are. My son is in college and is working music into his future career and my daughter is playing piano as a stress reliever in Veterinary school.
Ashley says
Hi! can you share where your tan sectional is from?
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s here in this post: https://mixandmatchmama.com/2024/04/kitchen-great-room-refresh/
Beverly says
Not sure if you have a Cosco near you but they have a very similar tennis skirt in a variety of. colors for $5.00!!!!
Scarlett Spangler says
“We didn’t know what we were doing, and I swear to you, she could tell.” Goodness, I feel this SO much with my first! I am due with our 2nd baby next month, and I’m very much hoping we have it more together this time around ha! Happy Friday 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
Congratulations!!! I only think you get more confident. You’re going to do fabulous with two!! Please send me a photo!!
Anna Marmick says
Shay – a gross question. I know you had a nail fungus last summer, any tips on getting rid of it quickly??
Thx!
Mix and Match Mama says
My dermatologist called me in an oral and topic prescription that healed it right up!
Tiff says
Congrats to Smith on a stellar orchestra career! I also sadly quit my local symphony orchestra in high school due to other commitments but those orchestra memories really last a lifetime and helped me learn about teamwork, hard work, confidence, perseverance, discipline, etc….life lessons that can be applied anywhere.
sandi says
So… Yellowface!
Completely unrelated to anything in this post, but I just finished it this morning. Per my kindle I was 85% through and looked at my daughter and said, I do not know how this book is going to end. I could not figure out how anything would be resolved with so little of the book left. It was unlike anything I have ever read. I am going to suggest it to my aunt who is a graphic designer for a small publishing company. She does the typesetting and cover art. Goodness it was good!
Mix and Match Mama says
I think about this book all the time. It’s so original, so thought provoking…I just loved it.
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
I think it is so cool that your school system has an orchestra! Way to go Smith for committing so much time and effort into being part of that!
MeetTheShaneyfelts
Kim Carberry says
Well done to Smith, it sounds like he is so busy with all his other commitments.
Aww! It sounds like all the dogs are getting along well. They are just adorable.
It looks like you are all set for summer. What fab clothes.