Hello, Monday. I’ve become pretty accustomed to all the holiday-induced short weeks lately…fingers crossed this first full week is a smooth one! It doesn’t help that we stayed up cuh-razy late binging ‘Making a Murderer’! Are you watching that show on Netflix? I’m so frustrated by it that I’m not sure I can watch the rest. I’m not convinced he’s innocent, nor that he was framed, and unfortunately we’ll never know the truth.
I spent the last week or so recapping all we accomplished and experienced in 2015, and while your comments are always genuinely nice and heartfelt, I also get the recurring question of “How do you DO IT ALL?!”
The question is usually followed-up with some sort of self-deprecating statement of their own perceived failures in the life/mom/fashion department. The comments always get me thinking about my own life, how I manage it, and how it’s perceived by others…particularly you guys. After tooting my own horn so much last week, I felt like it was a good time to pull back the blogger-veil a bit…just in case you were under the false impression I’m somehow living my life better than you.
The idea that anyone might think I “do it all” makes me laugh at the ridiculousness, and a little sad, because obviously I’ve built a facade here that contributes to believing in unrealistic standards. I mean really, who is doing it all?! Women are amazing, but no one person can do it all alone. I certainly can’t!
There’s no question that blogs (including my own) put their best face forward, almost a fantasy life. No piles of dirty laundry, no bagged-out eyes from sleep deprivation, no disappointed faces when mom doesn’t come through.
Which, I suppose, is similar to fashion magazines using highly-retouched photos of impossibly thin models…they give us an unrealistic view of how our bodies and lives “should” look, and for me, can induce piles of guilt for not meeting those standards. Obviously if you think my life and home always look like the pictures, then there is a lot I’ve managed to keep from you.
There is no such thing as balance between home, work, family, blog and self…because if one area is excelling, it’s usually at the detriment of another. I think of it more as juggling, and I live in fear of all the balls dropping. #twss
If I examine that further, the fear comes from being revealed as a fraud or failure…because I struggle with feeling worthy of so many blessings. Is this too honest for a blog post? Maybe.
Now, does this mean I think we should all start posting images of our toothpaste splattered sinks and reminder emails of forgotten appointments? No, we come to blogs for inspiration and ideas. I post projects and outfits because I love creating them, sharing them, and in the hopes that someone will be inspired by them. I really, truly love every aspect of blogging….creating something, photographing it, writing a post that hopefully engages and entertains, and the interactions that come from it. I do struggle to keep perspective with it, and remind myself constantly that it’s meant to be fun.
* I’m a complete Type-A, control-freak, master list maker, can’t be idle kind of person. Sounds fun, right? Want to hang out? #sarcasm I finally realized that my inability to let dishes sit in the sink, clothes hampers remain full, or enjoy an afternoon of doing nothing, was hurting my quality of life. Sure these things need to be done, but the world won’t stop if I don’t do them right away. And actually, the world was passing me by. I have to consciously work everyday to be more present with the people in my life, and not just the chores of it.
* I work part-time now, and mostly from home (read about that here), so that’s a lot of hours I have without kids, to work, run errands, buy project supplies, blog, etc. I bet you could get a lot done with that much time to yourself, too. However, working from home can be very isolating, so while it seems I’m connecting with people all day, it’s not the same when the majority of it is online. This has caused some strife in my marriage since Mr. SP wants to actually shutdown at the end of the day, not be verbally bombarded by a lonely wife!
* I may refer to this blog as my ‘fun, happy place’, but make no mistake, I work hard at it. Like really, really hard. Between my job and the blog (I refuse to refer to the blog as a ‘job’ because I love every aspect of it too much to think of it as ‘work’), I spend upwards of 60+ hours a week. It’s not Monday-Friday…it’s virtually everyday.
* I’m almost always tired.
* I have my fair-share of insecure moments…am I wearing the right thing, what do they expect from me, will they like me? But one of the gifts of getting older is also a ‘who gives a crap what they think’ mentality! Honestly, the older I get, the more confident I become with who I am, and what God gave me. Sure there are haters, but I know my heart and intentions, so I have to focus on the people that really matter. Isn’t that was Dr. Seuss said? “The people that matter, don’t mind…and those that mind, don’t matter.” #bam #micdrop #seusswisdom
* I have an amazing housekeeper that comes to my house twice a month. For some reason, I have a hard time admitting I need this help, but I swear I’m a better mom and wife because I don’t hold resentments about scrubbing toilets. #ittakesavillage
* Since much of the house crapola gets done during the week, my weekends are more open. The kid’s activities and schedules occupy a lot of it, but they are getting older now and have no interest in being glued to my side all day. That leaves quite a few hours for my own fun stuff…which for me, is painting, creating outfits, and taking pictures.
* The photos you see of my house on the blog are not accidental…those rooms have been picked-up, cleaned, styled and I’ve waited for the best light. If you drop by some time, you’ll find things strewn on the sofa, floor, kitchen counters…everywhere. Basically, evidence of life being lived. Although it does make me crazy…that goes back to that whole Type-A thing. 😉
* I miss school loan payments, forget permission slips, have dead houseplants and dirty baseboards. I lose it with my kids, get boiling mad at my husband, and have thoughts of running away. We eat cereal for dinner sometimes, I duck my head when the PTA asks for volunteers, and I have a broken relationship with my dad that gives me heaps of shame and rejection. I quietly suffered through the baby blues when my son was born, had to go on medication after my daughter came along, and I get lost in malls. (What does it say about me that my most embarrassing admission is the lost in malls part???)
Cassie, thanks for always keeping it real! Love your blog!
I love you! Thanks for being you and for always making us laugh. That is such a gift to be able to laugh when you hurt inside. XOXOXO
I just love you Cassie! This post was perfectly timed and much needed by me :).
Just when I think I couldn't possibly love your blog more, you publish this and I am in love all over again!
this was refreshing and mostly relatable for me- i am the same way about so many things and yet super peppy as well…. and i want to get a housekeeper but am just not there yet. but i hope to be!
I just love your blog. I appreciate your honesty this morning, because as a mom of three, I struggle with the same Type-A qualities. 🙂 Thanks for keeping it real…..
One of the reasons I love your blog so much you are so genuine! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and for the inspiration you give on your blog each week!
I just love your honesty, and reading this makes me love you and your blog even more!
This was refreshing and makes me love your blog even more! It is such a breath of fresh air when people are "real" with each other and willing to share some of those things we might want to otherwise hide. Thank you! It made this tired, yoga pant wearing mama with dirty baseboards happy this morning 🙂
Best post ever.
Well, this was a very thoughtful and beautifully written post. And it shows so much about why I love you! So many hard and real thoughts, but followed up with a sarcastic comment or well timed hashtag (a couple that made me laugh out loud). I found myself nodding my head throughout the post, and I think it's going to be a much needed read for so many women! Love you friend!
Cassie – I look forward to reading your blog each day – it is hands down my favorite! We are at similar stages in life (my oldest son is about to turn 14 and your post (or maybe instagram as I follow both) about your son driving gives me hives! You and I have hundreds of things in common and I'm sure would be fast friends if you lived in SC (or I lived in TX). Your honesty is refreshing and so very relatable. Please keep doing what your passion is leading you to do – it's pretty amazing!
If even possible, I adore you more 🙂 #girlcrush
Seeing the reality behind all the pretty pictures is a refreshing change. Have you heard Over the Rhine's song "All My Favorite People Are Broken"? It speaks to how we are all flawed and all trying out best: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ea9uy6Mngk
I know you work really hard on this blog and it shows! Love how you're keeping it real!!
Ok so I have to say this. I lived in WI for the 13 years prior to moving to TN a year ago. So I lived through Making of a Murderer the first time around. Make no mistake. This man is evil and as guilty as they come. This documentary is told ONLY from his perspective, as they want to get everyone believing he is innocent. It really makes me sick that this poor girls family has to now endure all theses people thinking this man was framed. They were body parts on his property!!!! Sorry…I sort of get on a rant when it comes to this!
And I love your realness and honesty. I watch/follow several blogs/you tubers and it always appears they have the perfect life. Good to hear you gave to straighten up before photo shoots!! I am very very Type A also, so I get it.
It can be hard to see perfect pictures and remember that no one is perfect. Thank you for this! perfect timing! *kisses*
I love your honesty…and very much appreciate it! I think it is a testament to your lovely nature that you should even think to post these personal and beautiful explanations of an imperfect life. You certainly don't owe us, as readers, an explanation of your life!! But that you care enough about us potentially feeling inadequate to publish such a personal post shows great compassion.
For the record, I enjoy your blog greatly and I think most readers come to blogs with an understanding that they are a place of inspiration, rather than a place for comparison.
You're doing such a great job and I hope you continue to enjoy it for a very long time to come. Best wishes xo
Great post. Thanks for sharing! Kudos to you for all you do (and don't do) in the run of the day. As women, I think we sometimes get all caught up and forget to pat ourselves and each other on the back.
This was a great post. It's nice to see the other side sometimes. Of course we come here to see the beautiful rooms, projects, outfits but it's nice every once in awhile to see the other side! We all live there, comfort in numbers! Thanks, Jill
I love it when you keep it real. It makes me feel more connected over the cyber waves.
I love it when you keep it real. It makes me feel more connected over the cyber waves.
This post makes you even more awesome! Your blog is one of my favorites and I look forward to each post. Having never commented before I thought it time to say thank you. This was definitely a different post from you, but I don't think there's anyone who can't relate to some or all of what you wrote. Keep doing what you're doing Cassie! Xo ~Linda
I love how you kt it real. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. We all need to remember everyone has struggles and to lift each other up. Hugs!
Thank you for this. It was very brave!
I must say I enjoy all your posts but this is one of my favorites! We are all "real" and that sometimes gets lost in the perception of "cyber" life. We only post the perfect pics because, hey, who wants to see the cat fur on our black dress pants? We should try to keep it real more often than we do, I guess. However, as long as we realize behind those perfect pics we are all imperfect, it is all OK. Have a great day!
Love your transparency. Bless you!!
It's so good to know you aren't perfect – LOL! Thanks for sharing. The one thing that really resonated with me from your post was the "some days I have to choose happiness". A simple concept, yet one that many people just don't do. I am going to make that my mantra. Thanks for what may be a life-changing statement! (Especially today when I am dealing with a daughter who totaled her car last night – not her fault and everyone is ok, in-laws with very demanding health and wellness issues we have to deal with constantly, a teenager with a crazy busy schedule that stresses me out, and then just the regular stuff that ebbs and flows from busy to boring. I could use a little bit of boring right now, but . . . today, I am going to choose happiness! Love your style and attitude – thanks for the daily dose of good cheer.
Way to tell it Cassie! This must be an important key to your success!! Keeping it real! Love the blog even more now!
Thank you for sharing your vulnerabilities with us. It makes me love this place even more.
Love this post!!! Way to keep it real sister 🙂
Mindy
as far as Making a Murderer . . . the fact that the investigation was done so poorly is why we don't know if he did it or not. The police should have investigated her ex boyfriend, followed all leads, etc., before focusing on him. You won't find out if he did it or not, but you will learn a lot about how the justice system should work and how it can be corrupted.
I get lost in malls too! Haha I am directionally challenged. I do this in doctor's offices too. So many halls and everything looks the same. :-/ I can relate to it all. Love you all the more.
Thanks for such an honest post. Another reason why your blog is one of my favorites and I always look forward to a new post. Keep up the great work!
Great post! I always come here for decor and fashion inspiration, but today I got so much more. Thanks so much
You're so beautiful in and out, Cassie. I feel you on so many levels. I know you're not perfect but you sure do kick a$$!
<3 U
I was actually about to stop following you because you made me feel so bad about my life. (I just try to eliminate things that Satan uses to make me forget my blessings.) So I'm so, so glad that you posted this today! Thank you!
I love the way you own it so authentically and in such a real way. I relate on so many levels…especially to the broken relationship with my dad. Our pastor always says that "daddy wounds" are a special thing because they cut so deeply into the heart and soul. It's so true! But the best part (which is totally hard to remember sometimes)…it teaches us to love the Lord like a Father and look to Him for that unconditional, agape love a daddy should give! xx
Great post – I've always loved your blog, and get so many wonderful diy and fashion ideas (made pom poms & sewed them on a throw for my mom for Christmas – she loved it!), but seeing the behind the scenes reality and how hard you work helps us see you as both real and inspiring. Thanks for writing this – I think it is perfect for a Monday! 🙂
Dear favorite blogger, Thank you for the reality check. Obviously everything you post is positive and beautiful and that's why I read- for your lovely tips. Today's post helps remind me why I love your blog – because you are a down to earth girlfriend who is just generously sharing great finds.
Thank you. -A loyal follower forever.
I absolutely love how candid this post is. I think the timing was perfect, and I love that you are confident enough to spill it all. This is real life, at its finest! There will be haters, especially when you're in the public eye. One of my favorite lines comes from a song: "Everybody hates somebody everybody loves, whatcha gonna do" (Just Wakin' Up by Vonray). But, you are impossible to hate. I've enjoyed your blog for several years now, and the post about your Dad and Grandad was the one that hooked me…a real-life, true story post. All the pep, beauty, and excellent writing kept me around! Keep doing what you do (and letting others do what they do), and you'll keep this blog at the top! 🙂 Thanks so much for sharing! YOU ROCK – and give me so much inspiration for the kind of blogger I'd like to be!
LOVE your honesty and willingness to share! Thanks for being open with us, your readers. I, too, am a type A and we do need to give ourselves a little grace. I've no doubt we would be great friends (especially with my love affair of Mexican food!), but since we don't know each other personally and I'm pretty sure you are now scared of me (:0), I will just keep enjoying your blog! Keep up the amazing work!!
Love, love, love, Cassie! Thanks for sharing, and being YOU!
WOW! Perfectly honest and more intimate than anything I've ever seen on your blog. Thank you for your transparency. So refreshing. xoxo
I love this post- thank you for your honesty and transparency. It is seriously so refreshing and makes me like you even more (And I'm already a huge #fangirl) 🙂 Keep doing what you're doing- it's fabulous!!
This post made me love your blog even more. Keeping doing you…perfectly and imperfectly.
Thank you for being completely honest. I have to admit that I was becoming very resentful of your life and vowed not to keep reading because I looked at my own life and felt like such a failure. It's refreshing to see that we are all in the same rat race and now that I think about it–I appreciate your upbeat, peppy posts and truly happy that things are going so well for you (who wants to read about a negative debbie downer???). So–thanks for giving us a glimpse into the real you because it's made me appreciate you that much more. I truly believe God put us on this planet to serve Him, and to love and encourage each other–and you are doing just that!!!
This post just makes me love you even more!
I've said it before, but I can see myself in you so much! Type-A all the way! Even when people help me clean up, I have to go back and do it my way. Being on bed rest is taking every ounce of patience I have!! Love this post!
LOVE YOU MORE! You are amazing; thank you for being you!!!
I think we all appreciate knowing that we're not all perfect. It does get easier to get things done, once the kids are a bit older, isn't it. And, your "wine helps" hahaha! Loved it! 🙂
Great post, Cassie! Another reason why your blog is one of my favorites!
Thank you for keeping it real! As a fellow Type-A, I struggle to 'do it all' and find the balance needed to maintain my sanity. This post was just what I needed this morning!
Good for you for pointing out directly and honestly that although your blog IS a happy and beautiful place, it isn't a your "whole" life. I admire you for responding to the "how do you do it all?" question with such openness.
I don't believe I have ever commented but I do read your posts almost daily. You are honest and brave to put it all out there even though you are not obliged! Thank you for being candid. None of us are perfect, and no matter what, we all know that!
I love you right now. That is all. 🙂
I don't believe I have ever commented but I do read your posts almost daily. You are honest and brave to put it all out there even though you are not obliged! Thank you for being candid. None of us are perfect, and no matter what, we all know that!
because you are not perfect its why i keep coming back. don't ever be 🙂 we all have struggles and sunny moments. its part of growing up and i won't change a thing of what you are doing. your accomplishments, humor and good deeds are what matters most! love your blog, personality and the pinch of sarcasm in between! job well done!
I do not think I could love a blog post more. THANK YOU for being real. 🙂 I laughed at the teeth brushing comment–I've been there, too! (Too many times!)
I like you even better now. 🙂
Thanks for this…needing a "real life" jolt today! I thank God for commnunity (even online community) to walk through this life with! People like you really encourage me to be intentional about building and fostering that community! Self-care ist's selfish and AMEN it takes a village!! Thanks for this perspective 🙂
Someone else who gets #twss! Loved using it in junior high, love it even more now!
I teared up reading this. You've started off the year with a future most-read-and-commented-post already, I see! Nicely done. So much honesty from the perfect woman makes me like you and your writing even more. Keep at it–sounds like everything is flowing just right.
Cassie, you rock! So many of those things align with my life and I laughed out loud at the WFH part about your husband coming home – same deal in my house! I'm a babbling crazy when he walks in the door because I'm craving that interaction and he's all can I sit down for one minute please! It's hard to field the "perfect life" or "you do it all" comments from readers (I get them too) but I think you hit the nail on the head. We're bloggers, we're going to show you the happy things and the clean house, not the crusty food splatters on my kitchen floor. But we all have our flaws. And, what is it about housekeepers?! I feel the same guilt admitting it, but it's the best money I spend every month. Love your outlook and attitude on life and love following you. Happy Monday!
Thank you for your honesty! Some of the bloggers I follow do make it seem like you have and can do it all. I work full-time, am a mom to a 7 year old daughter, wife and a daughter (my 81 year old Mom lives with us but is pretty self-sufficient). I do struggle at times to keep it together and sometimes it sucks and it does make me cranky so it helps me tremendously to read that you too lose it at times and struggle. I also appreciate that your home isn't perfect 100% of the time, 365 days of the year because I know I have that issue in our own home. My husband liked to use our kitchen table as his office which caused me such great anxiety I convinced him to move his office to a great empty space under the stairs. Now if only I could work on my 7 year old daughter to pick up after herself when she does her arts and crafts, I'd be a bit happier!
Lovely post. Very real
Thank you so much for being so real and honest. As a wife, mother, blogger and full time employee I can relate to the constant struggle to find balance. I appreciate you being so open!
Thank you for sharing with us!
I already adore you, but this makes me adore you that much more! Thank you so much for being real and honest!
Thanks for keeping it real. It is a balance that I struggle with everyday. I get lost in malls too. It is embarrassing when your four-year old is telling you which way to go to get back to the entrance where we parked the car 😉
I have to admit that i was somewhat jealous of your life…not anymore! JK 🙂
Keep on keepin' it real honey! That's what we love about you. OK, we do wonder if you EVER look like crap, but we'll take your word for it. It's these kind of posts that make Hi Sugarplum the blog email I always open immediately cause I like to hear about what's up with you. Thanks so much for sharing. It was absolutely NOT TMI.
Best post I've read from anyone in a long time.
THANK YOU for being open and sharing that with us all. I appreciate it SO MUCH! Hugs too for your bravery and openness. 🙂
First time commenting to say thanks for this post today! I agree–we don't need to see your piles and dust bunnies and toothpaste-encrusted sinks, but sharing the mea culpa moments really adds a lot to this blog. I suddenly feel like I know you a lot better. 🙂
You are simply perfection because you can't do it all! 🙂 I'm in the same boat as you working from home and being kind of isolated to only talking via phone or web. Keith is in sales and talks ALL day, so sometimes it's tricky to find a good balance of communication and quiet.
You should never be afraid to push "Publish." We love you for a reason…and posts like this are just one of them! Keep it up, Chickie!
Phew! I thought it was just me :). Thanks for keeping it real!
I had to laugh at the duck when the PTA asks for volunteers comment! I stay far, far away from PTA recruiters! Like I have time to organize family fun days, fundraisers, and the like! I don't even have time to ATTEND the fun days, pizza sales, etc. let alone help organize the whole thing! Lol! Also, we also eat cereal, a salad, or a sandwich at least one night a week for dinner…not counting the weekends…that's all we eat then! Love 'ya! May God bless you and your family!
When I found your blog I knew instantly you were authentic. After reading this I totally am sure we would be fast friends in real life! I feel like I could have written some of these things about myself for sure…especially the paragraph about being type A. Thanks for sharing….and praise Jesus this is my last year (14 of the last 19) of elementary school…bye bye PTO!! They will be seeing my checkbook from here on out. Keep doing what you are doing Cassie…you are beautiful inside and out!
You go girl!! 🙂 Love your blog!
Good post!
Great blog post! Loved how honest, genuine and real you were in writing it. In reality, we know that most bloggers don't live these perfect lives with spotlessly clean homes, super organized shelves and fashionably dressed children everyday. I have only seen one other blogger post her very messy kitchen on an average day before dinner time clean-up.
LOVE your blogs ! You inspire me…and after reading this, helps me to put things in perspective. I am also TYPE A trying to do it all…perfectly. Thanks for keeping it "real" and sharing a part of yourself. You are awesome…
Thank you so much for this post!! With the online world the way it is these days, it's really easy to get caught up in what we "see" as truth online. What a great reminder that there is more than meets the eye. Love how you are keeping it real! Thank you! ❤️
Such a great post. I feel like this resonates even more this time of year when everyone is aiming to do better/more/everything. We are all beautifully flawed!
THANK YOU so much for this post!!! For keeping it real! I wish more bloggers would do this. I have enjoyed reading your blog for years and struggle with my Type A personality enormously. I need to take your advice and relax more. My OCD prevents me from enjoying time with my kids sometimes and I feel that guilt. No one is perfect. You are the best 🙂
I love your honesty, Cassie…keeping it SOO freaking real!! xoxo
Cassie,
Great post. As a blogger and a mom this really hit home with me. I read every word and it was so honest and I needed to hear it. I'm about to go to my first blog conference and am nervous about being new. Thanks for the vote of confidence.
Jenn
LOVE this post Cassie!! I've been working on a similar one for my own blog because it does feel awkward when readers think bloggers lead the perfect lives. I feel so guilty because I know the reality (and all those corners of crap in my house that I conveniently photograph around). Keep doing what you're doing girl – you're amazing!
I love your honesty. It's easy to look at you,family and life and think that it's perfect, but it's obviously not. I'm a type A personality and want nothing out of place in my house. My boys are all grown up, with one in his last year of college and my eldest working and proposing to his girlfriend in a couple of weeks. Actually, I live in Plano, so we're close. Anyway, I began following you like a year ago and have done some of your DIY projects and love it. Take care and I look forward to much more!!
Thank you thank you thank you for this post! I must admit I assumed you were almost as perfect as your posts appear, even though I rationally knew that wasn't true (or possible, or desirable!), so I love hearing the real perspective. Thanks for keeping it real and honest. I love your blog, and just fell in love with it all over again reading this post! (PS – I live in Dallas and love seeing pics of you in places I know! I always secretly look for you when I'm at the container store 😉
Thank you for such honesty. It's definitely somewhat comforting to know that your not the only one who can keep stirring all the pots before something becomes burnt to the bottom.
Your blog is a bright spot in my life! I know that it is not possible for every room in a home to be tidy every day. However, I do know that for some (including me) it does come easier than to others. I hope you don't feel like you have to apologize for the talents you may have been born with and have chosen to cultivate. What amazes me about you is your reference to a broken relationship with your dad involving shame and resentment. I too have that and it has held me back in more ways than I can quantify. The fact you put yourself "out there" in light of it is remarkable, admirable and in some small way helped me with a little hope and healing today.
Thank you for being so honest. I know everyone loves pretty pictures, but I think so many of them from blogs, social media, etc. really takes a toll on our self-esteem. At least it does from my perspective. I know no one can do it all and we only see like 10% of your life. I love that you put yourself out there. You've always been a blogger I feel I can relate to and see a little of myself in your style, that's why I read. Thanks again Cassie and keep being you!
What a great post Cassie!!!
Excellent. Thank you.
Thank you for being so real with us and reminding me I'm not alone in the journey, Cassie! Love you even more!
This is why I love your blog so much! Thank you for sharing these real moments and thoughts. Love to read your blog and take a peak into your closet, your home and your heart!
best blog ever 🙂
its nice to know I am not alone. in yoga pants right now lol
Thanks so much, Patrice! While your comment was so very kind and thoughtful, I'm deleting it only because it accidentally live-linked to that hate site…and I just don't want to contribute or send traffic their way. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but I don't want to encourage the hurtful ones. xoxo
What you said about talking to your husband after work…You want to talk, he wants to chill for a bit. My husband and I just moved to a new state, and we're going through the exact same thing! I'm so lonely! We're working on it, but it is a little comforting to know we're not the only ones. Sending lots of good thoughts that y'all get in your groove soon 🙂
I never comment on blogs (but I do read a lot of them every day). I just wanted to let you know that I appreciate your genuineness. I was going to post the same comment on the post you did about all the fun things you were able to be a part of in 2015, but never did. But with this post, I couldn't resist! I love reading your blog because you always come across as genuine. You get do a lot of great things, but it never seems like you are bragging, but more of a friend who wants to share the good things that are happening in your life…and I enjoy reading about them and celebrating with you. Thank you for being you…for being real in the good and harder parts of life!!!
Love this post! Long time reader , first time commenter. The 'running away' comment was the one that made me comment. So true so real so common. Keep doing what you do, we all love it.
I comment rarely but read often….I've read since the beginning actually. One of the reasons I love your blog so much because you do inspire me. It is like a breath of fresh air…much like this post. Thank you for sharing! Keep on being you. 🙂
Glad to hear that you are as real as the rest of us. I work from home as well and yes it is very isolating. Glad that I found your blog, I really enjoy it and you! Keep the faith Sister!!
Although I didn't read all the comments, I had to scroll down quite a way to post mine. I'm sure that what 99% of them say is, "Thank you for your honesty and transparency." Its easy for us to believe that you lead a charmed life. I may have even said that about your 2015 year, but the truth is life is hard. So, thank you for your honesty and transparency. That is really what blesses people and what makes your blog genuine and authentic. I haven't missed a post in over a year and don't plan to start.
Great post. I love your Blog, your style and your great attitude. I look forward to reading all of your future post.
Wow! Brave, real and raw. Thanks for sharing this, it's never easy sharing personal stuff like this, the deep stuff. Love your blog and you should be so proud of yourself!
This is all so great! Thank you for sharing! I am very Type A too and am doing my best to let go of some of that. You are right…the world doesn't stop spinning if there are dishes in the sink or the laundry doesn't get folded…its a great reality check!
You are my favorite blogger! I always feel like you are presenting your true self on your blog, not some picture perfect fantasy. You keep doing you – that is ALWAYS enough!!!
Couldn't love this more!
Your awesome. Made my day and now I love you even more.
Love ya, Cassie!!
This was lovely to read and very well done. Thank you for being open and honest.
I needed this today! Thanks for being real.
Thank you so much for your honesty! I'm quite new to motherhood and fairly new to marriage. I am also type A and constantly have a paper to-do list…as well as an even longer mental one. It's my new year resolution (and a strong request of my husband) that I am more present this year. Time slips by so quickly, my son grows by the day, and I need to learn put the chores and work on the back burner more often to spent time with my little family. It was so refreshing to read your post today. You are inspirational in so many ways but this post was your most inspiring yet!
I've read your blog for a while, and this post makes me love it even more! Also, from a fellow type A person, the book "Let. It. Go" by Karen Ehman literally changed my life. I heard about it on the Mix and Match Mama's blog, and since reading it I have not been the same. Keep doing your thing!
So funny that I was just this morning thinking about your blog and the things that you manage to achieve and being hard on myself. I have two kids under 10, work full time in a profession that has no boundaries, live on the other side of the world from my family so no help . . . and have been sick for the past week. Thanks for this post. I've decided to cut myself some slack!!
Thanks for your honesty and thanks for all the hard work you put into making this blog so enjoyable!
Thank you so much for this! I'm not usually one to leave comments, but I've loved your blog for a while now and it has inspired me in a lot of ways. You are so genuine and I love your honesty…I'm also a wife, mom of two little kids, working full time trying to find a balance and this is exactly what I needed to hear today..I absolutely love you!
I never comment on blogs, but thank you so much for your honesty. As it's getting late here and I'm sitting on the couch staring at unfolded laundry while everyone is asleep (my only quiet time), I am also reflecting on everything I did wrong today (like losing it with my 14 year old son while helping him with homework), Reading your post could not have come at a better time. Thank you. xo
Look how many people you resonated with today by putting it all out there! I know the woman behind the blog and this post is exactly her. Love you.
As I spend most of my time as a blog lurker now instead of commenter, I couldn't pass this one by without an "atta girl!!!" It's so easy for those on the outside looking in to think that life must be perfect and peachy, just like the blog pictures. It really does take courage and gumption (and a healthy dose of sass ��) to cop to the not so pretty and imperfect parts (especially for us type-A-everything-should-be-perfect-ALWAYS peeps)((is this too many parentheses for one comment??? No wonder I don't blog anymore ��)). Long story short, you're the real deal all around, the queen bee-yatch of getting shiz done and we super heart you for it, dirty baseboards and all ��
Thanks for sharing this honest and beautiful post. Love it!!
A friend of mine that is a college professor shared this article last week, and it really resonated with me. The person that consistently finishes second is far more successful in the long run than the person that finishes first only once in awhile.
http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/jan/01/how-to-be-moderately-successful-person-like-me
You rock my friend! I feel as if I could have written the post myself! In fact I would if I had the connection you have with your readers. The last thing I want as a blogger is to make anyone feel worse about themselves or their home after they leave my blog. Why is it we always compare ourselves to others? Thanks for shining a big light on how the rest of us feel all of the time! Keep it up beautiful friend XOXO
Cassie, please know we love far more than your beautiful home and style, we love YOU! You live your life with such grace, but you need to remember to grant yourself a little as well. We lead somewhat parallel lives and sadly, I can understand the shame you feel with a strained relationship with your father. I hope you enjoy a week with your family as beautiful as you!
Boom.
I'm a new reader to your blog, but I'm so glad you were willing to take the plunge I to transparency. Thanks for being open and real! I feel ya with the type-a stuff. Being productive is great, until you can't stop! Wishing you a happy 2016! -Caitlin
*plunge into* darn iPhone 😁
I adore (and have for a while) you. This post was the proverbial mike drop. I want to give you a hug, a glass of wine and a high five.
This — "The people that matter, don't mind…and those that mind, don't matter." #bam #micdrop #seusswisdom — cracked me up. Great post, love your honesty, love your blog!
Wow! All I can say is wow! Cassie, I began following your blog because I like your sense of style. I have continued to follow it because I like you!
Wow! All I can say is wow! Cassie, I began following your blog because I like your sense of style. I have continued to follow it because I like you!
Seriously next time in Cali – margaritas! That just sounded like my life. Great honest post. Xo Jill
Sorry Cassie, I didn't realize that when I commented. I guess that might be the reason behind using dot com instead of .com. Lesson learned. I'm not sure how I was directed to that site but the comments were often vile and classless. I'll keep enjoying Hi Sugarplum for all of the good things that brighten my day.
Wow! Thank you! You are one of my favorite bloggers and now even more so. I can completely relate to getting lost in malls – humiliating 😉 and the Type A "issues" too. I have to constantly remind myself that "I love my people more than my clean house" and my family hears me laughingly quote that a lot! Keeping it honest and keeping it humble is the key for us Type A's! 🙂 Love your blog!
Fantastic post! Thanks for keeping it real! I especially like your IG admission of wearing something to bed then out and about the next day. Thanks for your honesty-it is so very relatable. Keep up the great work and inspiration!
Dear Cassie,
thank you, thank you, thank you so much!
Your words are just what I needed today! Actially I love my life, I'm a very positive person most of the time, but a few days ago I got cross with someone who knew which triggers to pull. She critisised me for something I forgot in such a painful way that I've felt terrible since then!
All the best, Dani
Such a beautiful post that just shows even more how beautiful you are. xoxo
Just another reason I love you. Keep it real my friend we can all relate. So funny I was working a similar post for my mom confessions:) xoxo
Love, love, love. You are truly wonderful, Cassie.
Thank you for your honesty and boldness. We are SO much alike! I am a self-proclaimed recovering perfectionist.
I have always sensed your authenticity in reading the blog, but this post was very endearing. It's nice to know that I'm not the only one who missed her son's school trip payment, or car payment that was due yesterday (next on my list), or frantically picks up the house right the before the housekeeper comes (Amen. Now they are a true blessing). I think posts like this are hilarious, and I actually laughed out loud while reading. Would love to see more confessional posts in the future in your signature comedic style!
Cassie I just found your blog today and I am hooked! I love your style, your honesty and your sense of humor. I look forward to reading new posts and catching up by reading through the older ones. So excited to "meet" you!
just love – like big ole squishy baby cheeks heart love. and making me and hundreds of other people feel "normal" (not that you have ever made us not feel normal but more lamenting with us I suppose) is never TMI for any day, even a Monday!
Love, love, love this post and your blog! It's one that I look at everyday! Love your style!
Thank you for your honesty, Cassie. I find myself nodding my head along with you…I look up to you, so reading this meant a lot to me. You are quite an amazing and talented lady, keep doing what you do! xo
I'm sure I echo everyone else's comments, but I sure to appreciate your honesty! It is hard in this day of social media to not look at everyone else's "perfect" life in pictures and somehow feel like we're failing because our lives are not so perfect. But when bloggers are open and honest about how their lives are just as tough and flawed as anyone else, it makes us love you even more! Your vulnerability of sharing all of this information is utterly refreshing. Thank you for your positive attitude and your hilarious hashtags (I literally laugh out loud whenever I read them!). Have loved reading your blog for years, and will continue to do so… even if I do still think you're pretty darn perfect! 😉
Cassie I love your blog for so many reasons, but a huge part is because you are so genuine. Thank you for being open with everyone. I've shared about this before, but people always think what is in front of them is real life. It's not; it's a staged photo. What they don't see behind the scenes isn't always pretty. I think people just have a hard time believing that. 🙂
I've always loved and appreciated your authenticity, Cassie — thank you for sharing! You're not the lone ranger, as my mother-in-law would say. 🙂
Have a blessed day!
xo Heidi
Cassie I have read your blog for 6 years and always love reading about your newest adventures, style creations and décor projects but this post makes me adore you even more and makes you so much more than just a blogger. Thank you for being you and letting us know its always ok to just be ourselves.
I love your honesty! And no, I wasn't one of those readers that assumed that your life was perfect. I do, however, feel that this post was empowering to women. It certainly was to me. We can "try" to have it all, flaws and all;)
Thank you for your this post! I loved everything you said and I love your blog!
What a great blog and amazing post! Such candor is so refreshing! Good for you! You pretty much Do do it all!!!
Love this post! I have been an avid reader of several blogs since I started staying home with my first child in 2007. Eight years and three kids later and I still hop onto my favorite ones to catch up. Sometimes I feel inadequate reading them; but you are right – I don't come on here to read about toothpaste in the sink or look at full laundry hampers (Lord knows I have enough of that in my own life!). I read for inspiration, a good laugh, etc. And I have the same exact type-A issue! Thanks for keeping it real, you're an inspiration on both levels!
You're right, we do read your blog to escape our "lives". I love that you are so real and I love that you don't care sometimes. Thank you for doing what you do and making it real. It takes big girl pants to put your self out there. Thank you!!!
One of my fav post EVER!! It's real and true and I love everything about it. We can all relate! I saved it on blog lovin to refer back to when I'm having "one of those days"! 🙂
If we are being honest….. There may or may not be a mom in Houston who threw a floor-length coat over her pajamas yesterday to get her daughther of the bus yesterday afternoon.
I LOVE LOVE THIS POST! Thanks so much for keeping it real!!! Really frustrating when reading a blog makes me feel like I could do more or should be doing more for my family. I also really struggle with the bloggers who are constantly posting about their shopping exursions… don't know how so many ladies can afford to shop like that! I really appreciate your honesty!
I absolutely love this. I struggled adjusting to being a mom after my daughter was born. I felt like something was wrong with me because it wasn't all rainbows and flowers when she arrived. So glad to see the realness here! Made my Thursday!! 🙂
Yay for this fantastic post and sharing those behind the scenes deets, blogs are so much work but at the same time it feels amazing to have a creative outlet and one you get to share with others!
A to the men sister! So proud of you for being honest, transparent, real and just darn funny. This blog gives you a creative outlet, which is using the talents God has given you. So bring it on, darling. Your gifts are inspiring and encouraging to me. Keep choosing joy, it looks good on you! Blessings!
Bless you more than ever. Grateful for you and your blog, though we may never meet!
Such a fabulous post, Cassie! Pulling back the curtain is something I think we all struggle with. I too am starting to get the "don't give a crap" attitude with age, finally. Thanks for sharing this, it made me stop for a bit of perspective today.
I absolutely loved this post! Thank you for you honesty and insight. As a mother of 4, new blogger, and fellow type-A woman, I enjoyed your perspective to everyday real life striving to provide beautiful content on your blog, juggling work, and a making a happy home and family life..which sometimes is beautiful and sometimes can be messy too. Admire you and love your blog..wonderful!
I LOVE your blog. It is the first one I read every morning and have been doing so for years. I am so happy for the successes that have come from your blog and very much appreciated this entry. I remember you posting something similar a few years back and went to reference and it is almost identical. So while I loved what you posted, it didn't come across genuine to me and more "I need to show Im not perfect"
Thanks Courtney! I appreciate you so much! Yes, I wrote a post similar to this almost 4 years ago, but a lot has changed since then, and there's a lot of new readers. And since 'how do you do it all??!!' is my most-asked question, I thought it was a good time to revisit and update the post. I ended up rewriting almost the entire thing, and it was a very cathartic experience, and I'm thrilled it resonated with so many people. Happy Saturday, friend!
So perfectly stated! Perfect inspiration in it's purest form!
Just catching up on some blog reading and loved this part" I miss school loan payments, forget permission slips, have dead houseplants and dirty baseboards. I lose it with my kids, get boiling mad at my husband, and have thoughts of running away. We eat cereal for dinner sometimes, I duck my head when the PTA asks for volunteers…"
You must have been talking about me. I do run a round with a toothbrush at times cleaning those dirty baseboards though. That's how crazy I am 😉
I started reading your posts regularly after I fell in love with your new fence! So random. Your recent photo of you yanking your jeans up made me heart you big time, but this post makes me super heart you!!! As a newbie blogger, I'm fully aware of how things can appear perfect when utter chaos is the reality, yet I still occassionally find myself feeling as if I'm slacking overall when I read other blogs. Thanks for reminding me that we are all real people…and that baseboards suck. Thanks for making me laugh!
Thank you so much for sharing this intimate look "behind the veil". I was reading it with tears in my eyes and there must have been a reason I stumbled upon it today, despite the fact that you wrote it a couple of months ago. I love you and all the bloggers I follow, but occasionally will find myself feeling as if my life doesn't measure up. Thank you again. Xoxo
You're one of only two bloggers I follow and the only one I've EVER commented on. I just want to say Thank You! I love how "normal" you are. You're so inspiring for us ladies trying to do our best, falling short sometimes but because of you, other times looking great, feeling great, 1.5 inches taller with perfectly curled hair and a great tan! Thanks for all your efforts to make this such a great blog/email!
wow, i needed this sooo much! thank you! Keep on, keep on….
As I sit here with tears streaming down my face, I truly don't know if they are tears of joy or tears of sadness, but this post is about me! I feel so much better to hear it from someone who looks so perfect in the media. I am also a type "A" person (LOL, things on the kitchen counter and sofa drive me NUTS), but recently I have decided to let things go so that I can enjoy my life more. I am new to blogging, but it brings me joy and I hope to bring others joy and inspiration. Thank you for this!!!
Really well written and real. Thanks! Appreciate ya !
Thanks for being “real”. To often we in a world behind the computer screen and forget that we too need to be real with each other. You have encouraged me today!!
Hi Cassie, I love how much color and fun oozes out of your blog. Your clever and creative sense of style (both fashion and home) is very inspiring to me. I totally agree with you, the older I get the more confidence I have. Thanks so much for sharing this rather personal side of yourself.
Happy New Year 2018, Cassie!
I just found your blog over the Christmas holiday and love it! You are absolutely beautiful and your heart is pure. I am blessed to read you and meet you. What an inspiration you are! Wish you were my sister/best friend!! Thank you for your hard work, your exquisite style, and your excellent sense of humor.
Oh, my gosh! You just made me cry! Thank you for pouring your heart out to us, as vulnerable as it is, you did it! THANK YOU very much. I felt like I was sitting across you listening while inspiring me. Thank you, Cassie! Blessings.
Wow. I needed this. I need to be reminded that what I see online is just a glimpse of what someone chooses to show. Thank you so much for your honesty. It was balm for my soul this morning.
I just found your blog today and just read your “Who’s Doing it All?”
I like you. Thank you.
i have been following you for a while now on Instagram and haven’t really paid much attention to your blog (shame on me) but I am SO grateful I stumbled on this post. Your honesty is beyond refreshing… thank you so much for laying it all out there for strangers to get a glimpse of your life. You gave me all of the feels…. and I needed them.
Hi Cassie! I’ve been following you and reading your blog posts for roughly a year now but I just stumbled on this post. I really enjoyed your openness and honesty. Thank you for sharing all of your inspirations, not just the pretty ones 😊.
Elizabeth
Elizabeth Hamilton Interiors, Texas
Thanks so much, Elizabeth!! xo. C