GIVE

a few weeks ago, at the irvine spectrum, an event took place. this was an event of epic ideas, incredible sales numbers, and authentically unique artists. hubby and i stopped by to check it out, and here is what we found...

i don't know if you're familiar with toms shoes, but they are an incredible company! toms shoes was started by a guy with a vision to change the world. one pair of shoes at a time. toms is known as a one-for-one company. when you buy a pair of toms (or a t-shirt, hat, sweatshirt, necklace...etc), you are essentially buying two pairs of shoes...one goes home with you, and the other is stockpiled to be sent to children in 3rd world countries with no shoes. a pretty amazing concept! although toms has become a bit of a fashion statement (no, i still don't have a pair...if you'd like to donate...i wear a 9), the heartbeat behind the origin still runs strong. at this GIVE event, 20-ish artists came together to customize the toms that people purchased.


these happen to be my favorite that i saw that day...created by none other than j*'s sister, alexandria

yes, i would encourage everyone i know to go out and buy a pair of toms...they are about more than just the fashion, the trend, or the customize-ability. they are about saving childrens lives...

thanks toms!

...little miss sunshine...

ok...i have to start with this photo...its just too hilarious!

...now for the real post!

i am adopted.


most people who know me, know this little fact about me. i have never been shy about it. i have never tried to hide it. i, actually, happen to be proud of it. a couple years ago, my birthmom (jen) found me. we emailed back and forth and finally decided to meet. we spent hours walking San Juan Capistrano, chatting about anything and everything. really just catching up on the last 21 years. we try to see each other at least every few months now. during Christmas time last year, hubby and i met jen, her man, her sister jocelyn, jocelyn's hubby dan, and their baby, sheridan. we all got along so well! it was fun to chat about the similarities and differences in our lives. well, last week, i learned that jocelyn, dan, and sheridan were going to be in san diego. we all made a point to get together and catch up in san clemente. we met for a delicious dinner of pizza overlooking the beach, and then, i had the privilege of capturing sheridan's first experience at the beach! here are a few of my faves!