Monday, July 18, 2011

to Be near you - (round three of the Styleathon)



When people speak from their hearts, before our minds have had a chance to reason, the voice is loud...clear, and a statement of initial chemistry. Fireworks.
I like to write from this place, and have a hard time putting guidelines or limitations on the things that come to mind. This is true inspiration, wild thoughts racing through your head, flashing images so quick you can barely write them down fast enough.

The truth is, that I found this Styleathon a bit difficult and outside my norm. The fashion aspect of it was completely foreign to me. I had such a hard time actually putting conscience effort into what I needed to be wearing. Normally, it’s whatever is clean (and sometimes not clean) and comfortable. Posing for the photos was even more taxing, and I found myself to be very unnatural and uncomfortable. Michael even accused me of taking too big of steps as I was walking :) An obvious sign that I was putting too much thought into how everything looked (and trying not to trip in the process).

But like everything else that we come across in life that makes us step outside of our comfort zone, I did learn a thing or two.
Throughout this project, I have been worried about what the people that come here would think.
I know a majority of my friends are not typical Fashionistas. Lots of yoga pants and flowy skirts around these parts. There’s not a lot of my $12, knit Target skirts, flip flops, and denim cut offs on any runways. I don’t read any fashion magazines, and tend to be super lazy when it comes to actually getting ready. This was a reminder that we have a tendency to worry about our appearance entirely too much. Women have a habit of being overly critical of themselves, and others. Sometimes I think our preoccupation with having the perfect hair, makeup, and clothes comes from the assumption that other women will be judging us. In reality, we are so much harder on ourselves than anyone else…our own worst critics. The last couple months have been full of gentle reminders to be confident and kind, and to appreciate myself for who I really am. To capture the real moments with Elodie, as they were happening. Even if they were simple, and not so glamorous in the process. My careful observer, I love that she watches the world through her curious eyes and learns through me being myself, that she will one day be herself, as well.



Wearing Elodie has become an absolute joy and freedom I was searching for, and finding the words to describe that came naturally to me.

With this Styleathon also came a lot of new readers to the blog (we are over 100,000 visitors a month) and also, some unwanted negativity.
It’s not too much of a surprise, because in life, you will always come across people that dislike you. I don’t have an issue accepting criticism from others, but I do have an issue accepting criticism from people who have not bothered to read what I have to say.
I have no space, room, desire, or patience for adults with child-like behavior, and those comments will be deleted and not given second thought.

I’ve said it a thousand times, but apparently words can fall short on deaf ears, closed minds, and covered eyes.

Be kind.
And if not? Then it’s your loss, not mine.

Be you, and speak you.
The ones that matter, don’t mind. And those who mind?
They don’t matter at all.

Finally, I wanted to say how interesting it was to see the stark contrast in personality between the other Mothers and myself. We are all so different, and there is something strikingly apparent about that. I think that after this entire thing, I came out understanding that even more. We are all unique…individual components that make us up into our own true self. Designer high heels, flip flops. Coffee or tea breaks, walks to the park and strolls through a museum. We are women, Mothers, friends, sisters…not competition. We live in our own corners of this world and all see it through different eyes. And the most important thing?

To love our beautiful little babies with everything inside of us.



Thank you to Leigh from Marvelous Kiddo, for thinking of me and bringing me along for the ride.

Lilla P, for showing me what a nice skirt looks and feels like, compared to my $12 one from Target :) Your clothes are both beautiful and versatile for a trip down the runway or a trip to the garden store. I have to admit that it took all of 3 weeks before I got a stain on it, though. Either dry breast milk, hair color, or mystery fluid. I haven’t decided which it is, yet.

Selima Optique- I have never in my life owned a pair of sunglasses that cost more than $18. Hence why the big, cheap, plastic clunkers always made me so hot and sweaty that I ended up not wearing them. Who would have thought that it was easier to be outside and slave over my garden in 110 degree weather if I had spent a few extra dollars on a nice pair :)

Marla Cielo – Her work is so unique. I wanted to cry when I found out that she specifically chose a piece for us based off of our personalities. There is something so wild and romantic, flattering and heart-warming to know that someone can read who you are as a person. For me, she chose her "Purple Heart" bag.
I can’t wait to pass this onto Elodie someday and have a little piece of who I am stained onto the threads.

And Thank you to Sakura Bloom for allowing me to be a part of this. For keeping Elodie close to my heart, just like she was for 39 and a half weeks. To be near me, just like she is supposed to be.


Round Three of the Styleathon Freestyle Video.
After a Summer of Adventure, we knew we would want to spend this one close to home. We can’t wait to show Elodie the world, and it was in fact the first time she would ever get to experience an Oklahoma summertime.
Gardening, Mini road trips to our watering holes, fireflies, Arts Festivals, Summer thunderstorms in the Midwest, concerts in the park, fireworks, and lazy days in the hammock. These are the simple joys of life that we wanted to include her in. Wearing Elodie, I am able to bring her up to my eyes and tell her and show her all the little things she will one day learn to love herself. The things that will make her who she is.




to Be near you.



*song is "Noche Nada" - Givers.

132 comments:

Bobbie said...

absolutely beautiful video. Love your creativity and your beauty that shines through in all that you do! E is a lucky little girl
:) Bobbi

Anonymous said...

You are so incredibly inspiring to me and lots of other mothers, I'm sure. Thank you for being yourself.

nettie said...

Aura, your video was a treat to view during my work day! I am rooting for you in the Styleathon!
Be kind! I love those words. So much violence, self depricating, and regret could be avoided if everyone followed this rule. Thank you for sharing a piece of your family with us!

Verna said...

Great pictures, great video! You and your daughter are so beautiful!

kate said...

beautiful as always mamaaura. what a great mama you are.

mama foosa said...

beautiful.

Alivia said...

This video lifted my spirits on my cranky Monday! Thank you :)

Lauren Knight said...

Thank you for sharing such a wonderful video. I love your style and your outlook on life. You are an inspiration to moms everywhere! Keep up the great work!

Jess at Just Rainbows and Butterflies said...

This post was so beautiful and moving. I completely agree with you that we are much harder on ourselves than we believe other women are. That is a constant battle for me. I also want to reiterate that women are friends/sisters/people and not competition. I think in today's society, we speak that message, but don't follow it. Thank you for reminding everyone again.

And of course, the video was amazing. I love the music!

Anonymous said...

I absolutely love this post. If you don't mind, I quoted you in my latest post - http://laughterandlinguini.blogspot.com/2011/07/on-writing-volume-two.html. If you'd like me to take it down, I understand! I felt I needed to share your gorgeous writing with my family and friends :)

ariannamarie3@gmail.com

Emily said...

This is so beautiful. I'm a relatively new follower to your blog but love your outlook and how you capture so much thought and emotion in your writing. Just forget about the crazies out there....you do a wonderful job. :)

The littlest said...

aura,

i am so sad and shocked to hear anyone would leave you a negative comment about anything!! this styleathon has been a little strange for me too - i am so new to even having a blog and it was started first and foremost to capture my time with elodie (i love that our daughters share the same name) - that i too am experiencing growing pains for it all. you have a beautiful voice, it is a wonderful thing to share and the song says it all, 'the more i'm me, the more you're you'. the greatest gifts of this whole exercise for me are meeting other mamas and talking more about babywearing! namaste sweet aura - the light in me bows to the light in you.

Ashley J. said...

Oh, I LOVED your video! I wish I could save it, it puts me in a very happy, loving, serene mood.

Really, your clothes aren't like $80 each? Where do you shop?! Maybe it's just your figure... I've always loved your style. I'm working to loose weight now and I've favorited so many of your pictures for inspiration when I finally reach my goal.

I can't believe anyone would give you a bad attitude. Seriously, they've got to be jealous. I know I am! :D

Unknown said...

The video is stunning. Elodie is a lucky girl to have these pieces of art you create for her to look back on.

Also, not trying to sound like a kiss ass but I honestly can't think of anything negative on your posts that would compel someone to leave you a nasty comment. I have been a reader for awhile and your posts have always seemed so peaceful.

Ashton said...

What a beautiful video! What a treasure for Elodie to see when she is old enough... Always look forward to reading your posts. Thank you for your art.

Anonymous said...

Your creativity leaves me speechless. I love your videos and photos so so so much.

Johanna said...

This video was so sweet and cheerful, I think I teared up a little! Love itttt!

Brenna said...

LOVED it. I actually teared up near the end because I'm still horomonal nearly 7 months after giving birth.
That was such a beautiful, fun video. Great job!

Quiet Violet said...

You are one of my favorite reads because you are so... you. I love it when people aren't afraid to be them selves and share what their heart says. <3

(p.s. ~ currently wearing a $15 Target dress over here! ;)

Jenny said...

Baby E is getting some CHEEKS! And I love those thick, dark curls. Such a contrast to my own baby's dirty blond peach fuzz....I hope it grows in some day. :)
You are beautiful, and your love for Elodie seems to spill out of you in this video. Is there anything sweeter than kissing your baby??

Unknown said...

i think you're beautiful and your writing flows like a nice novel. the kind you can't put down:). your look feels very earthy and organic-- very naturally beautiful. and the love you have for your daughter shines:). i love my kids so much it hurts...i really don't deserve such a precious and wonderful gift!

oh, and i love your blog. can ya tell:)??!

xo

www.saturatedcanary.blogspot.com

Don't Blink said...

loved :)

Laura Mauk said...

How could anyone possibly find a negative or ugly thing to say about such simple, beautiful authenticity? I don't get it. I am a new reader via the styleathon and I just want to say that your words and groundedness and honesty and total lack of pretense is so unbelievably refreshing and inspiring...Laura (lauramauk.blogspot.com)

Unknown said...

I'm all emotional and teary eyed--- Marlowe just danced with her arms waving in the air to your video :)

Lovely, Aura.



<3 drea

Learning said...

I think that your pictures are lovely! I come to your blog because it reminds me NOT to focus so much on the fleeting and meaningless trifles of life. Thank you so much for sharing some of what's going on in your life. I am so sorry that some people were negative.

You have given so much to people who don't even know you! I now love banana pancakes, photography, Amos Lee, Bob Marley, Jack Johnson, Ray LaMontagne, and you have showed me that soft and comfy knit dresses can be lovely.

jackie said...

this is all so inspiring. your love for your baby girl and for life is beautiful.

nicole said...

Wow! I am soooo impressed. This is an amazing video! Perfect song choice, too. Love it! xoxo.

Natalie said...

that, my dear, was pure beauty. loved it.

Megan said...

I love reading your blog. It is so refreshing and honest and beautiful. Being a fellow "Oklahoman" i REALLY love your pictures of our wonderful scenery, and I love how you describe the seasons, the thunderstorms, the warm summers nights, the crisp fall air and the smells! Thank you for sharing your life with us!

Anna said...

Aura, I've been a follower for a couple of years now. I have only commented twice before and felt the strong urge to do so again. I just have to let you how beautiful you are inside and out and I love the way you can find beauty in anything. I wish there more people who could see life like you do. Please don't ever stop being "you". Sure you may come accross some negativity now and then but for every hater, there are thousands of us who adore you and come here for inspiration.

The Maiden Metallurgist said...

Please don't give those mean girls another minute of your energy. If they are small minded enough to be cruel to someone like you who has never had anything but a kind word to share... well I don't have to tell you who is the loser in that scenario. I have enjoyed watching the different parts of this style-a-thon, and if it was outside your comfort zone I never would have known that. You kick ass girl!

Jaymi said...

I got to the middle of your video while sitting next to my son (who was bouncing in his little contraption hanging in the doorway) before I started crying. I can count the things that have made me cry on one hand. You better win this damn contest! Ugh, I'm such a mess. :)

Pearl said...

I absolutely love the video!!


Pearl

Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN! said...

Thank you for this little reminder. In two weeks my Michael and I will be getting our engagement pictures taken. I've been fretting a lot worrying about what to wear, how to look. We haven't had pictures like this taken every before so I wanted it to be special but instead I'm stressing myself out. In the end I could wear torn jeans and a holy tshirt so long as our love shines through in the images THAT is what is most important to me. Thanks for the gentle and always true reminder! oxoxo

Valerie said...

Aura, I've been reading your blog for a while now and want you to know that I find your words and pictures to be so inspiring. I love that you don't spend gobs of money on material things. It's surprising to me that someone would attack you for being frugal and quite frankly, I'm guessing that anyone who might do so is jealous of you. With a husband in school and a new baby, I question why anyone would expect you to be throwing money away on expensive clothes. For the record, I love your style and think you are an absolute beauty both inside and out!

Me said...

Hi Aura,

So I've been reading for awhile now, but have yet to comment. I just wanted to let you know that I am so thankful that you are always true to yourself and write from the heart. That's what makes reading your blog such a pleasure. Loved the video and what a perfect song to fit it! Always looking forward to your posts :)

Danielle

Gaby said...

Lovely video! You guys are just the cutest little family xx

Rebecca said...

Your videos and your photos amaze me. You're such an inspiration.

Amber said...

This is such a beautiful and inspiring video.

So many of your words ring true and are a reminder to stay true to yourself. As a blogger, I write and post pictures to document my growing child, to create a modern day baby book, not for readership. That is not to say that I don't appreciate or love being part of this online parenting community, but simply I blog for them.

Amber x

Mrs. Teacher said...

You and your baby are lovely!
http://tragicandlovely.blogspot.com/

verdemama said...

Long time lurker here... Just had to tell you what a gorgeous video that was! You and your daughter are absolutely beautiful.

Nerdcakes said...

I love reading your posts! You are so so beautiful . . . Never forget that ! Your daughter will learn amazing things from you and your husband :)

Kayla Poole said...

When I think of my future life with my future children, this is what I envision. The video is a beautiful testament to your daughter, your spirit and your light. Thank you.

Val R said...

That video was quite perfect. And lovely.

Unknown said...

beautiful words Aura; thanks so much for writing.

Mary said...

hey aura, i'm glad you're gonna delete those comments. they don't deserve your attention. also, i've enjoyed so much your take in this styleathon. i really admire that you have the courage to be you. as another commenter already said you are beautiful inside and out. i find this such an inspiring place to come. thank you so much for that.

mellierose said...

So sorry to hear you received negative comments. On a positive note, I LOVED your video and am sitting here with goosebumps on my arms even though it's what, almost 100 degrees?! Keep doing what you're doing Auram because whether you intend to be or not, you are inspiring.

Olivia Grace said...

It's been so interesting and inspiring to see all of the different style a thon posts from all of you lovely ladies. I must say, in all honesty, that I have connected with your posts the most because you are so true to yourself. You are beautiful, inside and out, and your love for life and appreciation for the beauty in all things makes me smile. I look forward to your posts so much, dear friend, because you express yourself in a way that makes me feel like I'm not alone. Thank you, thank you, thank you for that.

Chloe said...

When my mind gets confused, when I get lost and don't know who I am anymore... I come to you. It might sound really weird, but you never fail bringing me back to reality and I am so thankful for that. It is weird because i was just thinking about it the other day, and I thought that I wished to have a occasion to tell you. Well here it is... Thank you for sharing your wisdom which is such a truly inspiration in my life but also I am sure many others...

Zamora Desert Vintage said...

You are very artistic, you are fashionable, you are unique beyond measures, you are beautiful, you are a great dresser, you are YOU! You have created an amazingly beautiful baby girl, who will one day, be all the above, and follow her mother... people dislike, people hate, but don't let people take away what you have created... your better than them, your passionate, and a very loving person.. it shows through your photos, and writings. You inspire me every time I come to visit your page as i'm sure you do others, it makes me feel like i'm right there with ya, happy and alive! Thank you for always an uplifting positive reading! xoXO

Tasha said...

As some of the other comments stated, you are an inspiration to other women and mothers. I love love love the video. Elodie will have such a reflection of who you and her father are when she is older. She is one lucky girl. Please continue to be you and ignore all the haters in the world.

Rachel said...

LOVE! You did such a brilliant job with that little movie -- what a wonderful memory for Baby Elodie to look back at some day.

I really enjoy your style! There's not much about the way you dress and decorate that doesn't inspire me...its refreshing to see something different when everyone else is doing the 'vintage' look (I prefer the boho style personally -- especially now that I've a baby and am breastfeeding -- too bad there aren't more cut off jeans on the runway!). I love that you just keep on being yourself.

Arm Candy For You said...

awesome,inspiring,beautiful!
what else can I say:)

Notes from Holly St. said...

such a beautiful and touching video! I love wearing my baby also...there's something so natural about mother and child being so close to each other. thank you for this post :)

kelly ann said...

You are such a wonderful mama... and your little babe is gorgeous. That video made my heart happy. (And I love that you used a Givers song :))

Love to you. xo.

Sarah said...

Dr Seuess.... Love that guy. :) He was so smart and full of great advice.

Good luck Aura!

Danielle said...

Oh my goodness. You are such a gift, and this video is beyond words. Thank you for inspiring me whenever I come to your blog- YOU have been one of the best parts of the styleathon for me, because this space and you and your family have brought so much positivity into my little internet world. You inspire me every single day to be ME, and keep on being me. I just wanted to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for being such a light and for being so, so you...which is so, so amazing.

So much love <3

Danielle

Meemo said...

Just keep doing what you're doing. You are an inspiration.

Unknown said...

aura,

this is such a beautiful post. your voice is authentic and lovely and so appreciated by me.

your blog always puts me in a good place. a real place. thank you for writing and taking pictures. really, thank you.

Melanie said...

This post really touched my heart beyond belief!

After reading your blog for a while now, I have come to realize that I have much in common with you! I think it's mostly in how you feel about certain subjects, but it's always reassuring to know you're not alone in feeling a certain way and I think that's why I love reading your blog so much. I've been doing a lot of soul searching the past while.. and can verry much relate to your writing.

Your creativity never ceases to amazing me, and you are so good at what you do. Never stop creating!

P.S. The "people who mind don't matter, and the people who matter don't mind" quote has always been one of my favourites.

Ramona said...

absolutely wonderful!! I believe as women we all have a desire to be beautiful but if this beauty only comes from outward appearance it will never be enough. I believe it has to come from the heart and soul. From who we are and how we see the world. And that's where we are so different and unique and beautiful and we shine!

Lauren Jamison said...

It's very ironic to me to read this post. I just recently discovered your blog and at first was instantly in awe of just how beautiful I thought you and your world and family are. I went back to the beginning of your blog and a skimmed through it and without trying to sound too creepy, it was simply amazing to see how you grew into and comfortable with yourself and I find that so refreshing and incredibly inspiring. Life, without the things, without make-up, without materialistic ambitions. If someone can find something negative to say about the beauty that so clearly radiates from you I think they deserve a swift kick in the booty ;)

Unknown said...

Beautifully documented! I found your blog when I was about 3 months pregnant and you were such a inspiration to me. This was all new and pregnancy can be scary in the beginning I am now 7 months and can’t wait to see my little one and start documenting these precious moments. Keep posting your cherished moments because it really makes my day!

17 Perth said...

Absolutely adorable video....and I love the music you chose. Here's to you being you, and Elodie being Elodie and for all of us to be true to ourselves. I love the message in this post and agree completely. Thank you for your honesty and for the inspiration.

the haute housewife said...

love, love, love this!! thanks for giving us these glimpses into your life :)

Michelle Kendrick Hartney said...

Absolutely lovely!

dee said...

I know it's not a competition, but baby girl, you win. This was beautiful and perfect in every way. I wish you lived closer so we could meet in real life and watch our girls have a little play date behind our cameras:)

Thank you for being you. xx

jennifer said...

So true, what you said about differences in motherhood. we tend to surround ourselves with the ones most like us and in doing so, miss out on the beauty and wisdom of those doing it differently. I love your way and appreciate it for the things it teaches me. your have real spirit for openly sharing here.
gorgeous video!

Jen Vogt said...

Beautiful video! I love it, it's such an honest view of how you live your life and love your sweet baby girl. I know she will treasure it someday, even if she can't remember being a part of it.

Thank you, as always, for sharing part of your life with your readers!

Jessica said...

you and your daughter are so adorable. thanks for sharing little glimpses of your life with us.

Erica said...

You are very inspiring. What a great mom!

Homeowner Insurance Rates

kim said...

I am one of those who came to your blog through the styleathon. Your video is beautiful and your words about women are some I've been thinking myself lately. I dress how I want most of the time, but it's always in the back of my head that someone else will judge me good or bad for it.

kristyn ellen said...

Ah that baby! SO BEAUTIFUL! You too. With a heart to match. Love looking at your photos and so enjoyed that video.

Mallory said...

Absolutely beautiful Aura...

erica said...

i have to agree with elizabeth of the littlest; shocking & sad that anyone could say anything mean to you--one with such an obviously kind & beautiful soul.

another moving post, as always.

and a perfectly fitting song...you have a poet"s soul & one blessed little girl.

Ana said...

I love the last picture of you and baby E. It brings me peace of mind to see how happy a mother looks with her baby!

karin said...

Dear Aura, I came to your blog through Franziska from http://fffleur-de-lys.blogspot.com/2011/06/have-lovely-eve_21.html and since that first glance I really love to come back and read all your posts. Especially the pregancy- and Elodie-ones, as I am expecting myself. Thank you for so much inspiration and honest words. I can't wait to have my own baby near me and discover "my" world in a new way.
A hug from Switzerland.

Anonymous said...

i think it's kind of a lie to only show the positive comments on your blog. i think it's better to show all opinions as they are, instead of candy coating it for yourself and everyone.

Leah Marie said...

What a beautiful video--and such a sweet tribute to motherhood! I loved it.

Julie said...

This is so beautiful Aura. It truly feels like a really emotional ad for Sakura Bloom...I wouldn't be surprised if they decided to use it for advertising! You rock sister!

Aura said...

Anonymous- I agree with that, and that is why I have always published all the comments - good or bad. But recently I decided that because I want this space to stay positive, I will no longer be publishing those comments. A lot of people that read this blog were responding to the negative comments and I don't really want other people involved or dragged in. I really just think it's a waste of time to be hateful, and I don't want to be feeding that behavior in any way.

Lisa said...

Dearest Aura,

You don't know me and I don't really know you. But I have been lurking around your blog for a little while now and I find it to always have such depth and insight. It always carries a positive message and lifts me when I am low. It saddened me this time to very tangibly feel your frustration for the negative side of putting your life out there for the world, though I know it is real and no one will ever please everyone all the time it still, for lack of a better word,sucks!I just wanted to thank you for being you. Your words and spirit remind me of someone very dear to me that I no longer see on a daily basis and it helps me realize that her effect on my life is huge and I need to remain in touch with her. That is how I first found your blog, she speaks Farsi as her first language and used to call me joon. Anyways, mad love and respect from me to you. I keep thinking I need to have a "calm in your heart" reminder of my own... I could sure use it these days. But that's a whole other story. Take good care, Aura.

http://lisaephotography.blogspot.com

Anonymous said...

Aura, well said. Makes total sense!

Rachel said...

you and your words are so beautiful and inspiring. i love this video. so lovely. so creative. so real. thank you for this amazing inspiration.

Alyssa said...

Aura!
I love your blog, I think its great and I enjoy it so much!
Stay you, you are one of my favorites!
Love,
Lyss

joan blondina said...

Aura, beautifully done!

Sara

jenloveskev said...

Not gonna lie. I think I should throw in the towel now for this whole styleathon. You should winds hand down my dear. This video is just breathtaking. I have sat here and watched it like 4 times. It is an honor to have been in this competition with you. You are such a beautiful Lady inside and out.

Jill said...

You are so inspiring! That's all I have to say.

Anonymous said...

Intensely beautiful!

Britney said...

I LOVE your blog, photos, and videos! I was wondering what editing software you use to make your videos? Are you using a Stop Motion technique? Thanks so much for sharing these glimpses into your life with us!

Penelope said...

Been reading your blog for awhile now. I am pregnant with my second child...a boy this time...have a beautiful 2 year old girl.

I think the way your write is exactly how I feel in my soul but can't find the words to say so eloquently. I, too, wore my baby girl (Penelope) until she just couldn't sit still that long and had to run! I have three slings that I can't wait to break out for my baby boy in 4 months.

Anyway, just wanted to say hi and that you have a beautiful way with words and a tuned in sense to what is really important in life. You are way more beautiful than any runway model is some strange, stuffy ensemble. Life isn't about the extra 10 pounds on our hips or our disgustingly overpriced clothing...it's about our individuality, who we truly are inside, and how we can share that with the world...which is what you do so well! Thanks for sharing and your daughter is gorgeous.

Stephanie said...

I just wanted to echo the praises! What a truly beautiful video. :) I love the "the more I'm me, the more you're you" part. Really touching. Thanks for sharing.

m+k said...

beautiful, as always!

m+k said...

is the striped sling a sakura bloom? it is gorgeous! (im)patiently awaiting my first linen sling to arrive.

Ashlee said...

Aura, I have watched this video three times now, and just shared it with my sweet friend Lesley who delivered her baby girl yesterday morning. I absolutely love it. You have captured the concept of mother love so, so beautifully. Thank you for making this video!

Jackie Keiser said...

Beyond beautiful!

heather said...

Hi Aura,
I never leave comments on blogs, but I just couldn't slip by this time without saying anything. Your words and images are so beautiful and inspiring, so powerful. Thank you for taking the time to share so much so beautifully. You are incredibly talented.
heather. a fellow oklahoma girl

Jamie said...

I came across this blog right before having my son...our babies aren't too far apart (he was born April 5). After having him, my blog reading has become limited but I manage to find time check in and get inspired once in a while. Whenever I open your blog and read your words, watch your videos, and look at your pictures I feel inspired! You have an absolutely amazing way of connecting! Thank you for your inspiring words and honesty. I love how you capture being a mother and a wife!

Claire {Beaktweets} said...

oh, such an incredibly beautiful video. thanks for sharing.

BLEUBIRD said...

beautiful post! sorry to hear that this has brought you some negativity. like you said, they don't matter. i think you and your daughter are stunning and full of love.

hugs to you.
xo, miss james

yours truly, melissa said...

you and your little girl are too cute! i hope you win. :)

Ashley said...

We are women, Mothers, friends, sisters…not competition.

Exactly! My mother raised my sister and I to have that exact mindset about other women. My mother is a fabulous person, and it seems to me that you are too.

A. said...

LOVELOVELOVE your videos!!!! That mad made so happy to watch. THANK YOU!!

Cori said...

Beautiful! You are inspirational to all mothers! Kissing my baby and showing him the world is the best part of my day and you truly captured how all mothers feel in this video. Thank you!

Learning said...

I didn't have a chance to watch your video the first time I read the post. How amazing! So many lovely tummy pics before Elodie was here....and fun ones of her now that she is! Thanks for sharing ;).

Anonymous said...

This is gorgeous!

But, for the record, I don't think you're fooling anyone in saying you don't think too much about what you look like.

See the number of pairs of shoes in the pregnancy shots, for example? Yeah...

Be proud! You work hard on your appearance!

Amanda said...

LOVE LOVE LOVED!!! your video! So beautiful, made me tear up!
Wow. thanks.

Anonymous said...

This makes my heart sing. Good for you!

Loni said...

Beautiful as usual, aura. I can't believe anyone would have negative words to say to you. You are amazing!

siniann said...

Lovely video! I have been thinking a lot every time you post here, you have so many wise words to tell. Specially the part when you wrote about the fact that we are our own worst critics, it is so true and i have been really critic towards myself that i felt sick. Since reading your blog little by little, i'm starting to think differently and see the changes in real life, too. Thank you for the wise words of yours, Aura.

jackie said...

this video was beautiful, by the way

Megan said...

I am not yet a mother, but I've spent some time on your blog in the last few months and as so many people have told you, your words and images are a beautiful reminder to be a woman who cares about what matters most. Also, let it be said, that you and your daughter are both beautiful, and on the "what matters most theme," maybe it is so striking because you are kind, enthusiastic, and true to yourself and that shines through. Thank you for sharing bits of your life with grateful strangers : ]

Melissa said...

I don't know you but through the words you write, and those words my dear are beautiful.

This video made me cry. Being a mother is life changing in the most beautiful of ways, and I like you wore my dear one close to me at all times.

You inspire me all the time!

Mellissa said...

I do not normally leave comments. But, I feel driven to after seeing your video. It moved something so deep in folds of my heart that I am left feeling full and satified with being a mother. You convey the simplicity in style, motherhood, and life...and that can be the most beautiful. Love your words. Love your video.

Anonymous said...

in awe

Follow Your Own Way said...

such a beautiful, inspiring post!

lvlyduck said...

I find your writing so authentic and meaningful. It is a special gift that you share your heart not only with your beautiful family but your readers as well. Thank you for reminding me to be gentle and kind to myself so I can teach this to my sweet baby boy!

caroline said...

I love your pictures. Elodie is so beautiful. I noticed your head band in this picture. Where do you get your headbands?

jessica said...

Aura-
I am sorry to hear that along with more visitors you received some negativity. I have been reading your blog for about a year now and I find you endlessly inspiring. Your stunning photography, adventurous spirit, vitality for life, dedication to family, and simple and honest style are all beautiful reminders to be me. So, I wanted you to know ~ I appreciate you.
Your words and video in this post are breath-taking and pure. Thank you for spelling it out for those who might not otherwise see clearly.
~Jessica

Laurel said...

What a lovely little video. Precious!
Elodie has gotten a lot of hair. Lucky girl she's got momma's locks.

Don't ever let those negative people get you down.
Do what you love and love what you do. We can all tell that is what your blog is all about. It has such great energy.

Thanks for sharing

Anonymous said...

Your posts are breathtaking. I look forward to everyone of them. I wish you could write more, but I know you spending time with little E is much more important.

I agree with everyone else, you are truly an inspiration.

Lesley said...

so beautiful! this makes me want my girl here so much more and i want her here pretty badly... 39 weeks pregnant will make that happen.

Anonymous said...

Style and fashion are too different things, and style is way better than fashion, because that's the expression of your personality, and not someone else's idea that you're just wearing. And you've got a lot of style. A lot.
This little video you made is wonderful. How can you resist not squeezing Little Elodie's cheeks?
Negative people mean nothing, and you're right about deleting their comments. I guess there is a creative way to express a criticism, through a simple opinion, but to offend is never okay or useful in any way.

simi said...

Oh my, what an adorable video! I think that just made my day. :)
~Simi ♥
lensflare-and-inkspots.blogspot.com

Alle said...

Hi girl, I love your blog!
Please, visit mine, you can find a surprise for you there!
(it's just your link! ;)
kisses
Alle

Rhiannon Ward @ Love Wisdom Motherhood said...

This video is simply stunning, what a beautiful reminder of your precious little one!

Unknown said...

I love the video :). As I was watching it a rare thought passed through my head, that someday I want to have a little one of my own. :) your elodie is so precious

littlegoldensnook said...

Aura; i have been following your blog since you were on LJ for maybe ten years or so (well, i've been on LJ for 11 years, so i'm guessing here). i have always enjoyed your posts; your writing is amazing and inspiring. i have also always thought you had/have great style!! i really loved your video too.. so moving.. little elodie is so precious! i've loved following your adventures and your journey thus far.. i hope you and elodie get some relief from the heat soon! thanks again for writing.. look forward to your posts :) xoxo take care

Heather said...

just lovely. i have a 5 1/2 month old and i discovered your blog a few months ago. though you don't know me, it's been nice exploring the journey into motherhood with you. thank you for sharing!

jboogribs said...

ahhh I <3! the video at the end is amazing! you are sooo talented. you inspire me w every blog. you make me want to have a garden, to have fresh flowers, to pay attention to Mother Nature's beauty, to fall in love and mostly to have a baby! one day....baby steps ;) keep the awesomeness coming girl <3

Anonymous said...

nice!

Kristen said...

i LOOOOOOOOOOVE this video!! so beautiful!! you, the moments you captured, your baby, the music, everything! i love it.