OMG! C+M is Turning One

I’ve been thinking about this post for quite some time.  OMG, I’ve actually been thinking about it since my first post on the blog a year ago. I will start writing it in my head while shaving in the shower, sitting in traffic, or watching t.v. Contemplating what I most want to say to you. How to write what is on my heart?  How to share in a few short paragraphs all the things that have happened in the long/short 365 days? But mostly, how do I express my gratitude for all the constant support. And here I am typing away and still not quite sure. All this time to get it right, and I have yet to find the perfect words.

When people asked me what I did for work  just a year ago, I had a “real” job. Did I ever tell you that my husband and I owned a little online flower shop? Probably not. It was something really special to me, to us. Something I haven’t really shared much about, but something I thought would help people and it failed. Ever feel like a major failure? I go over it in my head all the time. Did we make the right choice, did we? And maybe we didn’t try hard enough to save it, but we closed it at the end of the summer last year. I found myself relieved but also feeling sad. Then the combo of my breast surgery and closing the business, I was a tad bit lost.

It was at the end of August 2015, and finally feeling myself again, I decided to try to make a go at the idea of blogging. I had dabbled in it, I had hoped and dreamed of it. I had followed other famous bloggers and their world just seemed so far removed from mine, the reality was I did not know if anyone would care. I felt stupid at times trying to explain what I did after the flower shop, but then I woke up one day and realized it doesn’t matter. I do not have to explain myself or be a “stereotypical” 9-5’er to be successful. And now one year later I am so glad I followed my heart.

I receive emails and messages asking me about blogging. Inquiries from women & girls of all ages, people just like you and me. Individuals passionate about something they believe in and searching for that stamp of approval to proceed. I always say go for it because if something is on your heart and on your mind enough then you should follow it. I have had more tears, frustration, and self-doubt than you can imagine. It is a challenging thing at times but I have gained far more joy than anything else and that is what keeps me trucking along on this journey.

And now all my daydreaming about writing this little post has brought me to this final moment. Champagne + Macaroons is turning one. It is not a ground braking day, but for me in my little home, here with my little family, we are celebrating tonight. Celebrating that you can follow your dreams. Celebrating that I am so very blessed by all the love and support. And so very much thankful for you and your reading this tiny space I occupy on the internet.

In honor of the big ONE, I wanted to share with you the top 4 things that I have taken away from this exciting year of blogging. Pretty much exactly what I would say to you if you asked me:

1. “Be Authentic” – in life, in your photos, in your efforts that will always shine through brightest. I always say, “What you see is what you get”. Who I am in my blog life is exactly who I am in my everyday life. I want that to always come through blatantly clear.
2. “Comparison is the thief of Joy” – I say this out loud to myself when I start comparing. Because you do not know everyone’s journey, I certainly do not. Just keep your head held high. Focus on you and openly receive the love coming from those around you. I read an article recently talking about Community over Competition and for me supporting others in their journey is so very important,”We rise by lifting others”.
3. “Walk Away”–  If it feels forced then leave it. If you have doubts or feel like something isn’t natural then just let it be. Nothing is worse than when you try to make something work and you do not believe in it yourself. Trust me! I have unfortunately learned this from experience, and if you read my New Years Resolution’s list, saying no is on it. Trying to be brave and say “no” takes time, but you can do it.
4. “Value Yourself” –  It took me a long time to understand and be OK with this thought, but my brand, my time, me all of it is of value. When I started realizing my self worth it made everything feel a little better.

There are so many special people who I want to thank but to my biggest cheerleaders you are so very appreciated. Especially my husband, girlfriends and family who have always lifted me highest.

With so much love & gratitude – XO Tamara

Dress // Shoes 

Images – Thanks to the talented Paul Weaver

Space – Massive thanks to Martha Mcquade and the team at MAD-Work.com

Ballons + Decor – c/o Drop it Modern