What is a family?

I was blessed by being born into a great family. My birth parents are my parents. They have been together for over 30 years and built a beautiful life for our family.

I would be naïve to think that all children have the same life I had. Some were not born to the parents God wants for them. Some are adopted as babies. Some wait for years to meet their parents and are raised by birth parents, foster parents, social services, grandparents, or other relatives in transit before meeting the parents they are meant to have. Due to an all too often broken system, many children never get the parents that they deserve.

Adoption has had a strong place in my heart for years. Growing up in a church where foster children regularly frequented our youth group, children’s ministries, and nursery, I learned about social services and what they do for children at a young age. A close friend of mine is adopted. Friends from church have adopted babies from America, as well as all over the world. A family friend has embarked on the journey of adopting three beautiful children who, truth be told, adopted the family years ago, before any legal actions were taken. The young husband and wife have been married for just a few short months, but the building blocks of this family began assembling years ago-before they had even met. They are just mid 20-somethings already are caring for three children. Two beautiful little boys-brothers, with eyes that could melt the coldest heart, and a blonde, curly-haired, street smart sister- not quite school age, but knows how to work over any adult with her precious face and spunky attitude. Though the adoptions are not final, they are a FAMILY. They are the mommy and daddy that these kids trust with the most precious of things that mommies and daddies do: Bedtime stories, Barbie and Cars band-aids, and making the scary things in life go away. These kids have seen worse things in their few years on this earth than I have in my 26, but they finally have a family that will do whatever it takes to stick together. Read more about this precious family HERE. It’s such a cool story.

Adoption has surrounded me and fascinated me for years. Maybe that is God’s way of telling me that someday I will adopt a child? Maybe it’s just God’s way of telling me to pray for adoptions and help educate the world of a process that is challenging, rewarding, frustrating, and beautiful all at the same time.

A guy with whom I went to high school is currently embarking on this journey with his wife. Adam and April are a young couple who have a heart and a clear calling to adopt a child-who knows, maybe more than one! Their journey is one that I’ve been following a bit through facebook and April’s blog-which you can check out HERE. They have gone through mountains of paperwork, several home visits, and endless saving and fundraising. I am sure that they have felt frustrated on more than one occasion. Though, you would never know it by reading their blog. They have a grace and peace about them that is clearly carrying them through the process. It’s really beautiful to read about.

One thing that I love about the blog is how they address some sensitive issues that surround adoption. April speaks candidly about domestic vs. overseas adoption. She speaks about infertility and how that leads some couples to adoption. They have no reason to think that someday they will not be able to
naturally conceive-yet adoption has always been “Plan A” (love that post, April!) for their family. She speaks openly about race-often a hot-button topic in adoptions. She also speaks about open adoption, and the possibility of having a relationship with birth parents. They talk about their pro-life stance, which helped lead them to domestic adoption. Check out the blog. It’s a very cool read.

Now, I am not writing this because they asked me to. I did get clearance from them prior to writing and featuring their blog, but this was done on my own, because I have a heart for families of adoption. Maybe you feel a connection to adoption. Maybe you think someday you might like to adopt a child. Maybe you were adopted yourself. Maybe you are just a sucker for a happy ending. Whatever the case
may be, there are a couple of ways you can help this couple grow into the family that they are meant to be.

1. First and foremost-say a prayer. Pray for birth-mothers who are right now, at this very moment making decisions about the life of the unborn child they carry. Pray for adoptive parents who are going through the process. Excited. Scared. Joyful some days, somber the next. Pray for peace. And most importantly, pray for the children of adoption of all ages. Some meet their adoptive mommies and daddies days after birth. Some, months after birth. And some go through terribly painful situations for years before meeting the parents meant for them. Pray
for them to know that there is someone out there who loves them already-and hasn’t even met them yet.
2. Contribute financially. Again, No one asked me to feature this blog to ask for donations. However, the adoption process is not a cheap one. If you can give $10 and pack your lunch tomorrow instead of buying in the cafeteria. Trade a few happy hour cocktails for the beer on special tonight. It can add up. It can get this couple closer to their goal and closer to finding their child. They need to reach this goal soon-time is ticking! It’s Christmas. Help them get the ultimate Christmas gift.

If you are considering contributing to this cause, check out a new way the Swigers are fundraising. They have opened an online storefront through Just Love Coffee, which allows them to sell coffee, with proceeds going towards the adoption.  They receive $5 for each bag purchased, and if you buy 3 bags, you get the 4th for free! Sacrifice your fancy Starbucks cup and brew your own for a while! You’ll be getting more bang for your buck, and if you buy some fancy creamers, you’ll never even know the difference! Plus, along with the warm feeling a hot cup brings, you’ll get the warm feeling that comes from helping someone get the best gift possible.
3. Share the story! There are tons of families impacted by adoption. Maybe you know someone else who has a heart for adoption. You’d be surprised –there are people who have been touched by adoption and you’ve got no idea. Share Adam and April’s story with them. The more people who know, the more people will pray. And who knows? Maybe someone you share the story with will feel led to give to this precious, growing family.

Have you been touched by adoption in your life? Share your stories. We would love to hear them.

Cheers.

Shit Girls Say

Episode One.

Brilliant.

Cheers.

Oh, Ugh.

 

I’m officially a fashion victim.

For years I’ve hated Uggs. I’ve thought they were ugly and unflattering and just all around awful. They don’t look good on ANYONE and yet everyone wears them. I always refused to get them. I refused to partake in such a horrible trend. Fashion magazines ripped them apart. Talked about how awful they were and how no one should ever buy them, but celebrities continued to wear them and the masses
followed. I couldn’t understand it.

That is, until I tried a pair on.

A friend of mine had just ordered a new pair of Uggs and they arrived when I was in her home. I immediately turned my nose up at them and told her how disappointed I was that she continued to follow the horrible trend.

Her response?

“Try them on.”

I tried to refuse her offer, but the moment the soft fur touched my feet, I was a goner. I was hooked. They felt like magic. Warm. Cozy. Soft. Like no other pair of shoes I’d ever worn.

I was devastated. For years I’ve made fun of these horrible shoes, and now I wanted nothing more than to have a pair to call my own. So what did I do? I swallowed my pride and purchased a pair. And then another. And another. Yes. That is right. I now own three pairs of Uggs. Two different styles of boots and
a pair of hard bottom slippers. I am beyond disappointed in myself…

…But I forget the disappointment while prancing in my cloud-like Uggs.

*Hangs head in shame.*

I’m such a sellout.

Do you have any fashion trends that you are ashamed to love?

Cheers.

From Fashion Faux Pas to Fanny-tastic

In the late ’80′s, the world was apparently so lazy that they could not even handle carrying a purse. The many necessities and do-dads that were required for everyday use were simply too much for pockets or totes to handle. As a result, a horrid item called the Fanny Pack was introduced. This kangaroo-inspired pouch was modeled by tourists, amusement park goers, and parents all over the world through the mid ’90′s. The sheer though of the nylon sacks with plastic buckles is nauseating. I just picture families in KennyWood Park, soaked from a ride on the raging rapids, with bad ’80′s hair that has been deflated from the gross theme-park water and black eyes from her mascara running. She would most likely be wearing acid wash, high-waisted, “mom” shorts, a graphic t-shirt with kittens or a tourist logo (picture a “Visit Niagara Falls” logo), and chunky white sneakers with matching chunky white socks.

Around her high-waisted shorts would be a hot pink fanny pack. It’s contents would include her cash, sunscreen, Chapstick, and of course, a tiny comb to tease her hair once it has dried.

Let’s all pause to allow our stomach to settle after that thought.

What if I said the fanny pack has returned? What if I said there was a new fanny pack that is actually, dare I say it…fashionable? Believe it or not, the Fanny pack has returned and it is no longer a nauseating, chunky, nylon pouch, with a zipper closure or giant plastic claw-shaped buckle. Over the years, many designers have created fabulous, chic versions of this fashion faux pas of decades past.

In late 2000, Carrie Bradshaw lead the early return of the fanny pack when she sported this thin Gucci fanny pack with her signature higher than high heels. This was a very early version of the new, improved pack.

The always fashionable Kanye has also been spotted sporting a fanny pack once or twice. Here he is rocking a tiny Louis Vuitton fanny pack.

Rihanna is no stranger to the fanny pack, sporting large ones frequently. Here she is wearing Louis Vuitton and Dolce and Gabbana fanny packs.

Other cute fanny packs include Linea Pelle’s belt with bag, and Kinies Waist bag found on Etsy.

Belt with Bag

Waist Bag

Loving the ruffles on the Kinies Waist Bag!

Would you rock any of these fanny packs? Have you seen any other fashionable fanny packs in your travels?

Cheers.

Pretty Hands

I recently received a note from a loyal reader in Texas. Ms. M of Texas told me about a fabulous manicure she received, and thought it would be a fabulous tip to share with other Classy and Fabulous girls. I had recently come across some exciting fingernail discoveries as well, so it was decided that it was the perfect time for a mani-pedi post.

The fabulous manicure that Ms. M of Texas had received was a Shellac manicure. I have heard about Shellac manicures, but have not gotten one yet. After hearing more about them from Ms. M, I am sold! Shellac manicures are similar to gel manicures, but without the harsh chemicals. They contain UV technology and are free of Formaldehyde, Toluene or DBP (Dibutyl Phthalate). They are also hypo-allergenic. They last for a solid 14-days without chipping, peeling, or fading. Sounds good to me! The product usually runs around $20-$30 per manicure, which is pricier than a standard mani, but they last and look fabulous for so much longer! Oh-and I forgot the best part-no drying time! How many times do you leave the salon, only to discover that you’ve smudged your polish before you even got home? They cause no damage to your nails and the Shellac can be removed easily by your nail technician. You can learn more about Shellac Nails HERE. If you want to locate a Shellac-equipped salon, click HERE. You can also get shellac done on your toes, resulting in a fabulous, long-lasting pedi!

If you are looking for a thriftier manicure, you want to check out nail polish strips. There are several brands of nail polish strips out there, including Sally Hansen Salon Effects, Nail Fraud, and Incoco. I have not been able to find Incoco at any local retailers, but have found that online they generally are priced between $5-10. I was able to find Nail Fraud and Sally Hansen Salon Effects for $10 per set at Ulta. After purchasing a few sets of each, I stumbled upon Sally Hansen Nail Effects at Wal-mart for only $8.50 per set. Very reasonable. I was eager to try these strips. Basically, they are strips of nail polish that you attach to your finger nail, and shape with a nail file. It takes about 10 minutes to apply a set with no drying time. They come in numerous patterns and colors and can be removed with polish remover. I have used two sets of the Sally Hansen brand, and have been pleased with the results. They last for about 4-5 days before chipping if applied correctly. So much fun for girls who like to change-up their look frequently.

Incoco also comes in toenail-shaped strips, for a fun, funky, pedicure that you can do at home!

What are your favorite manicure tips and products?

Cheers.

Men can be Classy.and.Fabulous too!

Here at the Classy.and.Fabulous blog, we always try our best to provide entertaining tidbits, stylish tips, and compassionate causes to the readers. We love to get feedback and love to be introduced as “My friend who writes that blog I sent to you!” We are so thankful for all of our friends who read the blog and love to hear any and all feedback. We’re hoping you will be as excited as we are about the newest addition to the blog!

In coming weeks, we will begin featuring a clever, witty, insightful guest blogger, who we hope will start contributing frequently. This mystery blogger is not shy about opinions, loves debate, and always makes everyone laugh. OH! And did we forgot to mention…the guest blogger will be bringing a MALE perspective to some of our favorite topics! We are very excited to read the new blogger’s posts, and think you all will love him!

Keep your eyes open for his first post in the near future!

To make sure you don’t miss his posts, or any other ones for that matter, make sure you subscribe on the right toolbar. You will get an email each time a new post is loaded.

Happy Reading!

Cheers!

Who needs another purse…oh yeah … I do.

I’m a sucker for a great handbag. I often find special handbags, meant specifically for one outfit, carry them once or twice, and then leave them to die in the back of my closet.

Yes, I have my everyday bags that I love. I’m currently carrying the cutest light gray BCBG satchel with tons of zippers and pockets. I LOVE this bag. Yet, when I go out on the town, I feel like I need something a little more special. Something unique that stands out. Not to mention, something smaller. A clutch that can only fit my keys, ID holder, and lipstick for my touching up…just in case I encounter a smooch-worthy moment.

These adorable clutches on Etsy are PERFECT for any social occasion where a big bag simply will not do. They come in all colors and patterns, and are the perfect size to carry around, or sit on a crowded dinner table, without being in the way.

There is a style for everyone! They are also VERY reasonably priced, so you can either stock up for yourself and not feel guilty if it only gets used a few times, or you can use these fun bags as your new go-to birthday or gift for your female coworkers!

Which pattern is your favorite?

Cheers.

Shows we love to hate

It has been a few weeks into the fall television season, and everyone’s favorite shows are starting to get juicy. Everyone is buzzing about the ‘Glee’ Britney Spears episode. ‘Modern Family’ has been bringing laughs as always. ‘Project Runway’ has everyone on the edge of their seats with the cheating scandal that will hit airwaves this week. Our summer shows are gone and our fall shows have got our attention again. Water cooler talk is fresh and full of our predictions and feedback from last night’s latest happenings.

There are, however, shows we are watching that are not being discussed around the water cooler. We see them each and every week, but we never bring up the topic of these shows. Why?

Because we are too embarrassed to admit we watch them.

There are several shows out there right now that I am simply embarrassed to admit that I watch, yet I cannot help myself from tuning in each week. Such train wrecks. I simply cannot look away.

Sister Wives TLC – Sundays @ 10/9 c

Quite possibly my favorite of the hot mess shows. TLC’s ‘Sister Wives’ chronicles the life of the polygamist Brown family. Kody Brown and his 3 wives and 1 fiance have opened their lives up to the world to show how polygamy works in practice. 1 husband. 3 wives. 1 fiance. A million children. It is all very odd. Each mother parents the other mother’s children. They act as though each child has 3 (soon to be 4) mothers. Issues of jealousy arise from each of the wives each week. The family is actually under investigation by Utah authorities for breaking polygamy laws. Jealousy? Legal investigation? It is better than any drama you will see in a soap opera.

The Spin Crowd E! – Sundays @ 10:30/9:30c

After you’ve been thoroughly creeped out by Sister Wives on TLC, head over to E! and check out The Spin Crowd. The show documents the work of Jonathan Cheben and Simon Huck’s PR firm in Hollywood. The trashy girls working for the firm are ditzy and obnoxious. The poorly acted “reality” show is often painful to watch. Jonathan an Simon spend their time bickering and acting better than the rest of the world. Produced by Kim Kardashian, I will be shocked if it gets picked up for another season. Yet, I have seen every episode…sad.

19 Kids and Counting TLC – Tuesdays @ 9/8c

Oh the crazy Duggars. They just keep…having babies. Now there are grandduggars because the oldest Duggar son is a daddy. This show follows the lives of the ultra wacky Duggar family who has…19 kids…and they are willing to have more. A few good things about the Duggars: They live with no debt. Even before the show, if they could not afford it, they did now buy it. They provide for themselves. They have several businesses that sustain the family sufficiently.  They teach their children to work hard and take care of one another. However…all great things considered-the Duggars are creepy.

What shows do YOU love to hate?

Cheers.

OK Go

Most people do not know many songs by the band “OK Go,” but if you ask if they have seen that “treadmill music video” they know exactly what you are referring to. Their innovative music videos have put them on the map. First with the infamous choreographed treadmill routine to “Here it goes again” (rumored to be shot in ONE TAKE!), to the giant Rube Goldberg video for “This to shall pass” that was shot in a giant warehouse, and the colorful “End Love” video, OK Go continues to be creative and unique in all of their videos.

Well, they’ve done it again! OK Go has put together yet another innovative video, this time with a number of furry extras.

Check out “White Knuckles”:

For those who aren’t familiar with their pass brilliance, here are a few other favorites from OK Go:

Here it goes again:

This too shall pass:

If you can’t get enough of OK Go and their music videos, check out their website and their YouTube Channel.

They are just too much fun!

Which OK Go video is your favorite? What other artists have made your favorite music videos?

Cheers.

I told you already…I <3 ads.

If you are caught up on current posts, than you know that I <3 ads of all kinds. Last night, I came across a clip showing the process of creating a commercial for Ikea.

The creators of this commercial let 100 cats loose in an Ikea store and documented their actions as they explored, attacked, and crept. It is just adorable.

Check out the footage:

Here is the final product…

So cute! This will make even the biggest cat-hater purr a bit.

Cheers.