This is a paid post in partnership with Mom's The Word boutique.

By the end of the week, everyone is counting down the minutes until the weekend is officially on. We dream of a luxurious two days filled with rest, fun, adventure, and great meals, and Friday afternoon is the official kick off point. After all, there's a reason Fri-Yay has become such a popular catch phrase. Yet somehow, every weekend, the time between Friday evening and Sunday night zooms past us and we're even more exhausted come Monday morning. If you're in need of some deep rest and actual relaxation, these five easy ways to practice self care are your official go to guide.

1. Say No To Something.
We're going hard right out of the gate but if you want to feel the effects of self care, you have to dig deep and do the tough work. For most of us, saying no is akin to a mortal wound. Making ourselves unavailable is something only "selfish" people do, right? Wrong. Saying no to things, situations, people, and drama gives us the space we need to say yes to all the right things. When you say no to a lunch date with someone who drives you crazy, you open up your afternoon to spend time painting and playing pretend with your little. When you say no to a 7am hike, you say yes to sleeping in a little later and making a slow breakfast with your partner. Need some help? Look at everything on your calendar for the rest of the month and eliminate three things. Send that text or email right now so you don't put it off a minute longer. Think about your true priorities and make cuts based on what (and who) actually matters to you.


2. Turn Off Your Phone.
I know, another truly shocking suggestion, but go with us here. All day, every day, there is a tiny electronic device basically running your life. We use our phones as computers for email, shopping, tracking, reading, and as a music and entertainment source. Not to mention the seemingly endless phone calls, text messages, and voicemails all from people who need something or need some of your time. If the phone beeps, vibrates, or rings, we reach for it - which isn't hard considering it's probably already in your hand, back pocket, or resting next to you ready to spring into action. It's exhausting, it's habit forming, and it's physically demanding on your hands, wrists, neck, back, and more. If you have a house phone that loved ones can reach you at, create the habit of turning off your cell for the whole weekend. Let friends know you'll be off the grid and trust they'll respect your boundaries. If you don't have a house phone and feel unsafe turning your cell phone off, switch it to silent (not vibration mode, totally silent). Put your phone upstairs in your bedroom and then leave it there all day. Seems impossible? Ask someone you trust to hide it for the day and not give it back until an agreed upon time. Decide you want to be present more than you want to scroll social media for ways to feel bad about yourself, and switch that phone to off.


3. Focus On Health.
Now that you've cleared your calendar a bit and turned your phone off, you've actually got time to focus on your health! We're not suggesting you only juice greens and zip off to a meditation retreat (yet), just that you spend a little time taking care of your health this weekend. Take inventory of how you feel and what areas of your health you want to boost. Before you get overwhelmed, pick one item from your list for the month. For example, maybe you want to boost your endurance. Decide that's February's goal and then go for it. Break down ideas to build endurance and start where you feel comfortable. Schedule in a walk with your bestie every Thursday evening, and a half walk half job with your pup every Saturday morning. Keep track of how you feel and adjust accordingly for the following month. If food is your health goal, let your little goal be to meal prep for the week every Sunday. Baby steps truly change the whole picture. If it's easier, simply let every weekend be when you focus on health. Schedule a work out class, eat super healthy, stretch, get deep rest, and drink lots of water - only on Saturday and Sunday! Watch as these habits slip into the rest of your week.

 4. Journal It Out.
Since you have your journal out to take inventory on how your health is feeling, leave it out and use it this weekend to get in some quality self care. Journaling is proven to help you feel better, sharpen that mindfulness we all keep reading about, elevate happiness levels, bring about healing, and more. If you create a habit by journaling each morning, you're also boosting your ability to commit and honor your goals. Speaking of, writing goals out actually helps them come to pass! The act of writing, goals or otherwise, tells your brain that this is something worth paying attention to. Journal daily by free writing, writing your goals for the day, capturing your dreams from the night before, or write out your biggest dreams for your life. If daily seems like too much, pull out your journal on the weekend and do longer entries about your previous week and where you want to go from here. Whatever you choose, know you're doing something good for you in many ways.


5. Do What Makes You Happy.
Last but not least, while it seems so simple, doing what you love is something you have to intentionally make time and space for. If you were to write out all the things you do daily and then write a separate list of everything you truly love to do, would anything on those lists match? As children, we instinctively know what makes us happy and pursue those skills, events, and playtime with wild ambition. We run hard and fast at fun. Yet as adults, we hardly make any time for what brings us true joy. Forget trying to figure out why and just jump in with both feet. What makes you happy? YOU, not your kids or your spouse or your friends or your parents, just you. What makes you happy? If this question finds you staring off into space, think of what you loved as a child. Loved puppies? Find a local shelter or rescue group and volunteer as a foster or at adoption events. Was painting your jam? Sign up for painting class or buy a bulk pack of canvases from your local craft store and paint every night after the kiddos go to bed. Did you love for baking? Get out that dough, girl! It really is as simple as it sounds. By doing what makes you happy, your mood raises and your stress reduces.

Self care is often misconstrued as selfish but trust it's anything but. While it's hard to choose taking care of yourself over tending to others, it's crucial for you and those you love. By filling up your own self-care cup, you're able to care for others better. If you're ignoring your own needs, how can you be there for the needs of loved ones? Life can be hectic but by making time on the weekends to seek space, pay attention to yourself, relax, rejuvenate, be kind to yourself, and draw boundaries, we can approach each week with patience, joy, gratitude, and focus.

How will you practice self-care this weekend? Leave us a comment below or on instagram - once your phone is back on, that is. Enjoy the weekend, friends!

__
This photo was in collaboration with Mom's The Word. All opinions expressed are my own.

Hope! Hope is a tiny Terrier mix puppy adoptable in NJ through Big Dog Rescue Project. She is one of four siblings and all are tiny and precious.
Petfinder listing here.

Noah! Noah is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Doxie mix and he is a dreamboat. Available through Red Hook Dog Rescue in Brooklyn.
Petfinder listing here.

Dapple! I'll just be honest here, I want this pupper. I may or may not have my heart set on a blue merle Chihuahua (yes, I know, I've read all the things, v bad, I know). Dapple is available through Outcast Rescue in Pennsylvania and I'm down to road trip there immediately.
Petfinder listing here.

Barkley. BARKLEY, like, let's first talk about how adorable that is. Barkley is a baby at about 8 months, Papillion mix, and available All 4 Paws Rescue.
Petfinder listing here.

Jonah. Wait, hang on, I just died over his cuteness level, give me a minute.
Okay, I'm back. JONAH is available via Cold Nose Warm Heart Dog Rescue and I want him. He has many siblings and was 9 weeks at time of listing.
Petfinder listing here.

Waffles. I'm going to give you a moment here this time. Waffles is 2 months and 2 pounds and hails from Texas but is with Rescue Dog Rocks in NYC.
Petfinder listing here.

Mickey and Minnie are a bonded pair in NJ. They have basically the best bonded pair names of all time and are Chi mixes and if you've never owned a Chi, 15/10 highly recommend. All Star Pet Rescue has this bonded duo.
Petfinder listing here.

This is a paid post in partnership with Mom's The Word boutique.

While some days it may feel like you and your bump have been together for much longer than you'd prefer, we all know pregnancy is a temporary time in life. Luckily, it's also one you can remember in your heart and your photo album forever. If you're opting for a maternity photo shoot, read on! We've got your top tips on how to prep for your maternity photo shoot.

First, Get Inspired! Gather inspiration for your maternity shoot via Pinterest, Instagram, or any of your favorite searchable social media sites. Make a new board you can pin ideas to or create a tangible vision board by printing online photos and using magazine clippings. Include ideas for outfits, locations, accessories, themes or the overall style for your shoot. For extra inspiration, check out websites of local maternity photographers. You'll need to research photographers anyway so this is a fun way to begin your search!

A way to get clear on what you want is to think nouns: people, places, and things you'd like to incorporate into your shoot. For people, decide if you'd like to shoot solo or include your partner and/or kids in the photos. For places, determine if you'd like to be indoors, outside, in your own home, at a studio, at a special location or somewhere you've never been. The possibilities are endless! Remember to factor the weather report into this decision as well as how comfortable you are standing for long periods of time. As for the 'things' category, we're talking about accessories for you, baby items such as adorable shoes, bows, or onesies, or special items like family heirlooms, handmade signs that showcase your due date, baby's name, how far along you are, or even a gender reveal.

Next up, Find Your Photographer! When it comes to selecting your photog, there are a few key ingredients. First, ask your close friends or family members for recommendations on photographers they enjoyed working with. If you're feeling wild, post the question on your Facebook (but only if you're ready to navigate a lot of opinions). If you don't want to ask around, everyone's BFF, Google, is ready and willing to help. Search by using keywords like your town or city, style types such as "moody" or "bright", or any locations you know you want to shoot in such as a local ballpark, museum, or botanical garden. For example, a search might look like "beach maternity photographer near Surfside, North Carolina", or perhaps "Orlando maternity photographer for Disney World baby photo shoot".

While it's important to feel confident in their photo portfolio, the most important qualification for your photographer is that you feel comfortable with them. You don't need to become best friends but connecting through conversation is important. Schedule a chat on the phone or in person at a local coffee shop to learn about her shooting style, package options, rates, ideas, and how she got into her field of work. If your gut says it's not a fit, trust that and move to your next option.

Once your vision and photographer are set, it's time to Prep Your Look! Grab your laptop, some snacks, get cozy, and start shopping online. With so many options, it's best to simplify and think basics. Jewel tones, like this gorgeous purple maxi, and neutrals, like this super soft cream cardigan, always look sharp in photographs. You can never go wrong with classic black or a pair of incredible jeans. However, the absolute best look on everyone is confidence so whatever you choose to wear, be sure it makes you feel as gorgeous as you are.

If you're opting to include the whole family in your shoot, start with the hardest person to dress. For example, if your husband has a red plaid shirt he absolutely loves, work around that piece by selecting a red dress for you, and a red plaid bow tie for your toddler's outfit. If your family is made up of die hard fans for a certain sports team, bust out the matching jerseys and order a team onesie for baby-to-be. You can get as fancy or as fun as you'd like. After all, it's your maternity photo shoot!

Our final tip for your maternity shoot, and the most important one we can give, is to Love Yourself. Embrace your bump and body as you are right now without making any judgements or comparisons. If scrolling social media for inspiration makes you feel bad about yourself in any way, skip that step. If setting up the shoot makes you stressed out, ask a trusted loved one to handle it and sit back and relax. Don't allow anyone, including yourself, or anything to spoil this special and unique time in your life, or make you think you're anything less than a total babe. While planning is important, try to let go of any expectations you may have surrounding the shoot or the outcome. The most important thing is to have fun, enjoy yourself and the experience, feel how beautiful and loved you are, and remember that you will treasure these photos for years to come.

My Layla June. I was about to write a letter to you. It’s six months without you today and I’ve thought about you all day. I pulled out my phone and your brother immediately furrowed his little brow, shooting a very clear look my way. I put the phone down and settled my arms back around him, letting him settle his weight onto my back arm while I rubbed his belly and behind his ears with my other hand.

I wish you could see him. He’s wily and uninhibited and has a boldness that makes us widen our eyes and laugh loudly and say your name in an understood and confirmed way. This was all you. I caught him in my bathroom a couple of times recently and am absolutely certain you’re here, playing and romping and calling him in to mess with things he shouldn’t. He never once ever came into my bathroom further than a hesitant paw or two before bolting out, remembering this is the room where the baths happen. Now he’s in there pulling things out of the trash, running out guilty, encompassing what can only be described as the Layla June spirit. You would be so proud.

I was at the dentist today, left waiting on the next step when I realized it was right around the time I held you in my arms and let you go, those six long months ago. I felt a wave wash over me, remembering that moment like it was yesterday. The way you looked, how you smelled, the softness of your fur in my arms, how you started crying when you saw me because you knew and I knew and it sucked so much. Maybe you didn’t know if I would come back but I hope you never doubted me for a second. I would have never left you there alone and I hated checking you in to the hospital. Mama did not do well that day, Layla June. It was like my heart was slipping out of my body and I was following right after, my head and body slumping over.

Some people think a dog is a dog. Those people are dumb. You were my little girl, my best friend, my constant companion, my wise little teacher, a tiny furry queen. You rested with me, danced with me, pounced on me, sat on my shoulders, my stomach, my arms, my lap, my feet, whatever you could climb onto. I still feel like I’m missing a piece of me, I still expect you to brush against my feet as I wash my face, still wait for you to skid into the room at full speed when I use the bathroom, running in to put your paws up on my knees. You taught me what confidence looked like, how to not take any shit, to go after what you want, and a whole lot about how to rest deeply and well. You taught me that you can be tiny and go through a bunch of shit and still be an unstoppable, determined, sweet force to be reckoned with. You went through more horrible things than nearly any human will encounter in their life and you did it all within a handful of years, and then instead of holding a grudge or being afraid, you loved with more abandon and lived more fully than any human I’ve yet to encounter. Your wisdom was a thousand times the size of your little body.

Selfishly, I wish you were here. But when I talk to God about you, I give thanks that you’re healthy and without pain and happy and running amok up in heaven. I know you’ve made a million friends and have as many snacks as you want and zoom around, your smile wide and bright. Even when I’m angry and even if I have to choke the words out, I thank Him for taking you because I know you needed healing we couldn’t get for you here.

Six months flew by so I know I’ll blink and it’ll be a year and then two and then five. I have no idea where I’ll be or what we’ll be up to by then, but I know you’ll be with me. I feel you when you visit and you’ve left so many signs for me, starting with that first day when I laced up my shoes and ran and ran and ran, praying for a sign you were okay only to find a giant metal ladybug under my feet. I feel you when you’re here. Make sure you’re sweet to your brother when you’re here with us, baby girl, don’t mess with him or anything (we both know you’ve got a feisty spirit about you, you got it from your mama, after all).

When I started to write and your brother called me back, I laughed to myself. It was a quick reminder that we need to give our love and attention to what is, instead of what we’re wishing was or what used to be. This isn’t to say I don’t love your brother or that I wish you were here instead, Lord knows I am wrapped around his paw. It means so often I get caught wishing things were different than they are that I miss out on the joy, love, situations available to me right here and now. In other words, even though I miss you with my whole heart, I still love my Bear with my whole heart, and even though the math doesn’t make sense, it seems to work out just fine. You two are like my own personal Whoville, growing my heart sizes bigger than I knew it could be. Even without being here, you continue to teach me and change me and grow me into a better person.

I love you as big as the moon, Boomer. I always have, even before I met you, and I always will, now that we’re here without you. I miss you and I’ll keep trying to make you proud.

If you're all Halloween-ed out from this past weekend, or you're keeping things low key this year, here are some must watch Halloween TV and movies to stream in between handing out candy (and keeping the good ones for yourself). Grab a KitKat and click "Read More" to see the whole list!

1. Hocus Pocus. Unless you've been asleep for the past 20 years just waiting for someone to come light the black flame candle, you've seen and love Hocus Pocus. It's less about watching this and more about seeing just how many times you can watch it during October. Watch on FreeForm or the FreeForm app.

2. Pretty Little Liars Pilot & Halloween episodes. Remember the PLL pilot? The sleepover in the barn, Aria's purple hair, the first time all of their phones went off at the same time. Ah, memories. Relive how it all started and then pop over to Halloween episodes, like S3 ep13 where we all became a little terrified of trains (rip Garrett). Watch all seasons on Netflix, or the FreeForm app.

3. Parenthood Halloween episode. Oh, Parenthood. We lost you too soon. Luckily, we can hop on Netflix and re-live our Braverman love, including S2 ep6, aptly titled "Orange Alert". Highlights include Julia trying to handle Sydney's choice to be a pageant queen, Kristina trying to talk her neighborhood into not having any candles (and dressing as a q-tip), Amber in her banana suit, and Zeek's love for the holiday. In classic Parenthood fashion, this episode comes with all the feels, especially the ending. Watch on Netflix.

4. Stranger Things. I'll admit that up until this past weekend, I hadn't seen Stranger Things at all. I'm not great with scary things (as you can tell from my list so far, considering this is the most family friendly Halloween watch list ever) however, I was lucky enough to feel really run-down this weekend and finally decided to give it a whirl. Three days later, I have now seen all of S1, all of S2, and all of Beyond Stranger Things, a series of interviews and behind-the-scenes info. I will tell you that I was pretty freaking terrified during most of season 1, but it's truly worth the risk. Don't miss out, you'll love this show. Watch on Netflix (because they were wise enough to not pass on the genius that is The Duffer Brothers).

5. New Girl "Keaton" (S3 ep6). I'm not sure why I love New Girl so much but I can frequently be found cracking up with an episode on in the background. Honestly, it might just be because I have bangs that I feel such a kinship for Jess and CeCe (and the boys, of course). The first Halloween episode (S2 ep6) is great, but I prefer the season 3 Halloween episode, as it involves the plot line of Schmidt's childhood friend, Michael Keaton. Plus, Jess dresses up as Joey Ramona Quimby, because of course she would, and honestly aren't you a little bit wishing you could change your costume last minute? Me too, friend. Me too. Watch on Netflix or the FoxNow app.

6. Girl vs. Monster. Oh, what's that? You've never heard of this movie? Of course you haven't, it's a Disney Channel Original Movie (or DCOM, for those in the know)! This movie is so fantastic and also so terrible, in that way that only Disney can do. It's not scary at all yet has a decent plot about a teenager who has no idea her parents hunt monsters, nor that she's also bound for the same career. As bonuses, there's a few musical numbers and also the face of Luke Benward. Pretty much anything that's a part of Monstober, Disney Channel's month-long programming in October, is fantastic. I understand if you're now questioning my viewing choices all around, but don't lose heart quite yet. Watch on Netflix or the Disney Channel app, DisneyNOW.

7. Grey's Anatomy Halloween episodes. You've got your pick here for early on Grey's or many-years-later Grey's (but pre-Derek leaving us, may we all take a moment here). S4 ep5 features Meredith running around the hospital with those ashes, the adorable little boy seeking ears, and the annual chainsaw pumpkin carving contest, which would only ever happen near Grey Sloane Memorial, let's be honest. Bummer is Ava/Rebecca is back (this character is one of my least faves), but Edward Herrmann is there in all his Richard Gilmore glory as Norman, the intern. S10 ep7 features a much more grown up cast, parents to enough kids that Meredith and Derek host a Halloween party, on-going drama between Cristina and Meredith, and the crazy zombie guy. Both are fine choices but S4 has got my vote. Watch on Netflix.

8. 13 Reasons Why. Not exactly a scary show, this drama will keep you on the edge of your seat (just kidding, we all know you're on the couch) as you gather more info each episode. As a bonus, if you watch this after the Parenthood episode listed above, you can really freak yourself out over how radically different Miles Heizer looks (and acts). Watch on Netflix.

9. Hart of Dixie Halloween episode. Season 2 episode 5 has us enjoying Halloween in Bluebell, Alabama, wherein Lemon is jealous, George is sleepwalking, Zoe is convinced she's being haunted, and AnnaBeth comes up with a scheme for once. This weird little show has a lot of great acting, quick dialogue, excellent set design, and such a positive, lighthearted feel that no one will be scared watching. Watch on Netflix.

10. It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. Last but not least, everyone's favorite little Peanuts gather together to celebrate Halloween. Linus is precious as ever, awaiting the Great Pumpkin, but most of the gang is set on other plans. Sally can't decide between kicking it with Linus or trick-or-treating, but winds up staying beside her beloved. Lucy causes generally bossing, Snoopy causes general silliness, and Charlie gets rocks when he tries to trick-or-treat. Thus is life with the Peanuts gang. Watch it on ABC Go app.

If you haven't already, check out mine and Henry Bear's very own great pumpkin costumes, and our other Halloween looks over on Instagram.

Happy Halloween!

This time last year, my mom and I hopped a flight to Orlando, met up with my uncle who lives there, and went on a house hunting extravaganza. We spent a super long day going from community to community, looking at 8 or 9 altogether. By the end of the day, all I wanted was a big meal and a long nap, but I'm so glad I got to go along for this adventure because it showed me just how incredible of a second home my mom picked. Since I saw so many of the, well, crappier options, both in terms of homes and communities, I get to appreciate ours that much more and relish in the luxury that it really is. Plus, a second home within minutes to Disney World?! Dream. Come. True.

Click through to see more photos and find out how YOU can come enjoy our gorgeous home and property, too!

To say Reunion has been a blessing would be an understatement. Having this gorgeous and peaceful space to retreat to during what has been a truly challenging year has been a life saver. When Layla June died this summer and I couldn't make sense of anything, we booked a flight and just went to Reunion, letting me start to heal in the beautiful sunshine. Knowing we get to offer that same peace and joy to friends, family, and even lots of total strangers has been so neat.

We'd love for YOU to come stay in our condo with your friends or family, whether it's to see Walt Disney World all decked out for the holidays (we have some dates left in December), a girls weekend getaway, to celebrate a birthday or anniversary, to visit Harry Potter world at Universal, get your lego on at LegoLand, or even just enjoy a long weekend on the grounds of Reunion, which is a vacation in and of itself.
You can check out our AirBnB here. Got questions? Ask me on Instagram!

Welcome to FIXER PUPPER! We're your hosts Chip and Jo, and.. okay, fine, it's just us, Kerry and Henry Bear dressed as everyone's favorite HGTV hosts! When thinking of costumes for Hen and I, a Fixer Upper costume came to mind right away and once Henry was in those overalls, well, it was a done deal. Click "Read More" to see more photos and how to make your own DIY Fixer Upper costume!

When I think of Joanne Gaines, I think of a t-shirt, jeans, booties, and her classic green jacket, along with a cup of coffee in hand and positive spirit ready to go. For Henry's Chipupper Gaines look, I thought of those tan coveralls he's been known to wear, along with a classic plaid shirt (though we did try and find a navy tee, as well. Mostly, though, I think about how much they enjoy each other's company, their deep rooted faith, and how adorably they look at each other - check, check, and check! We were all set!

Something I love about this duo is their ability to dive into projects and get after it, as Chip would say. As a non-stop go-getter myself, I really resonate with their message and bold moves. However, I firmly believe in rest and re-fueling, which they clearly demonstrate. In a world where "busy" is glorified, and people are seeking fame instead of seeking purpose, joy, and a full life, I find Chip and Joanna Gaines to be refreshing, inspiring, and blazing a trail I hope to stay on.

If you want to get do this easy DIY Halloween Costume for pairs, here's what you'll need:

Magnolia Farms or Fixer Upper t-shirt: plain navy tee, iron on or stick on letters, OR order one of their great shirts from the Magnolia Shop! (I simply ran out of time for this option due to shipping.)
Jeans: any kind! Wear ones you love. Mine are Calvin Klein, I think Joanna likes Madewell.
Booties: again, check your closet first. Mine are from DSW.
Green Jacket: Banana Republic. Check your closet or friend's closets ;)
To-go Coffee Cup

We got Henry's dog overalls here (be sure to size way up! he is normally a S/M, we got XL).
For a human version of this costume, pair a comfy worn-in tee with your favorite jeans, boots,
a baseball cap featuring the Magnolia logo, OR opt for those tan coveralls. You can also rock the cute
#demoday tee found in the Magnolia shop.

Props: Magnolia magazines, The Magnolia Story, Capitol Gaines (which Henry says he'll let me read after he finishes it).

Make sure to follow along on Instagram so you see the rest of our Halloween costumes, including our matching Pumpkin costumes. Thanks for taking the time to read this post, we appreciate you!

*at time of publication, no links in this article are affiliate based. Should that change, this post will be updated.

With the temperature finally starting to cool down, that can mean one thing only: going from iced coffee to hot coffee! Also, bundling up in cozy sweatshirts. Check out my five top picks for sweatshirts from the Disney Store (now known as Shop Disney).

1. Walt Disney World Spirit Jersey in Coral
When I say I live in this sweatshirt, I mean I LIVE. in. this. sweatshirt. I'm literally wearing it whilst I type this blog post about Disney sweatshirts. I had eyed it for at least a year but put off buying it due to the price but it was so worth it. It's a classic jersey style sweatshirt with dolman sleeves and an oversized fit, along with raised letters on the back and logo on the front. It comes in a variety of colors and I'm eyeing the teal green. Size down and order a few for holiday gifts while you're at it.

2. Minnie Mouse Raglan Pullover Sweater
I spent a long time debating on this pullover or a light grey Mickey option that I eventually selected (shout out to my mom and uncle who stood there listening to me debate these sweatshirts). The gold foil feel mixed with the baseball style raglan is so appealing. This sweatshirt is the one you put on with jeans and cute booties and basically get to strut around in jammies all day yet look like a normal person. Win! I'd say size up in this unless you want it really fitted.

tg

3. Walt Disney World Collegiate Pullover Hoodie
While I'm not generally a white sweatshirt kind of girl, this one looks so feminine with the pink and scalloped border that I couldn't resist including it in this Disney sweatshirt round up. Reviews are mixed on sizing with some saying to size up and others saying to size down, but depending on how you like to rock your hoodies, you really can't go wrong. Wear this with leggings and Uggs, pull your hair up in a top knot, and you'll be singing Disney tunes all day.

4. Mickey Mouse Four Parks Sweatshirt
Okay, so technically this is a Mickey sweatshirt for men, but all that says to me is unisex sizing so size down! As a bonus, there are hidden pockets along the sides, and the only thing better than hidden Mickeys are hidden pockets, am I right? Reviewers say this is incredibly comfy, which I believe based on it being an 80/20 blend, and also note the Hollywood hat has been replaced by the Tower of Terror image as the giant hat is no more. Wear this to the park on a cool November day with jean shorts and a black mini-backpack.

5. Rapunzel Zip-Up Fleece
On a whim last year, I ordered two fleece jackets, one for me and one for my mom. I ordered during a personalization promo and got our names embroidered because of course I did. Mine is this color purple with Tinkerbelle, and mom's is a Minnie and Mickey fleece in a bold red. Take note this is a kid's item but is available in adult sizes in other designs. This Disney fleece jacket is so super cozy and incredibly warm. Bring this with you for the flight as it makes an amazing little blanket, and then wear it during the Happily Ever After fireworks and back to your resort on the monorail. We wear these a lot in every day life, too, running errands or out on crisp fall walks. Normal sizing applies.

What Disney World sweatshirt do you have your eye on? How do you feel about the re-branding from Disney Store to Shop Disney? Tell me in the comments or over on instagram @therealkerryfrances. See ya real soon!

Click play right on the video above or watch via this link!

Henry and I are starting our Halloween costumes off with a classic - PUMPKINS! You can check out this easy breezy DIY on how to make matching costumes for you and your dog, and the entire blog post with all the photos right here.

It's the great pumpkin, Henry Bear! Thanks for watching and Happy Halloween!

Halloween is my absolute favorite holiday and overall season (I maintain the right to say the very same thing about Christmas in two months). Once I see those pumpkins starting to pop up way too early in late August, my heart grows three sizes. The past few years Layla June dressed up as Snow White, and Henry in his trusty pumpkin tee, and I told anyone who would listen that for Halloween this year I wanted to be Elle Woods with LayJune as Baxter and/or Dorothy with HenBear as Toto. With the sudden passing of my best girl this summer, Elle Woods was out and my desire to celebrate and do as much with Henry as possible was in.

First up? Matching mommy-and-me Halloween costumes. As many as possible. Starting with this... (click Read More to see the whole post and all the adorable pupper pictures!).

Henry: "umm, mama, I get those treats over there after this, right?"

Since Hen already had his beloved pumpkin tshirt, matching dog and mom pumpkin costumes were the obvious first choice. I did a super easy DIY pumpkin costume for me, including pumpkin stem hat, and we were set! Since I already had the dress and tshirt, total price for this matching look was a whopping $2.

Want to make this for yourself and your pupper? I've got an easy breezy DIY video coming to the blog tomorrow, or you can watch it right here now. Here are the supplies I used or similar items:
Orange Dress
Pumpkin Dog Tee
Halloween Bow
Green Pipe Cleaners
Black Felt w adhesive backing

Have you and your pup ever dressed up together for Halloween? Let me know in the comments or over on instagram @therealkerryfrances! We've got three more Halloween costumes coming your way so make sure to follow along. Now I need to go get more treats to keep convincing Henry that this is a fun game ;) Thanks for reading!