Gym Class Zero

I used to be embarrassed in gym class.  I dreaded every new sport season, but nothing filled me with dread more than playing basketball.  My classmates used to tell me to run the court, stand in a certain spot, and promised not to pass to me.  So it’s odd that the best part of my week has been on a basketball court with my 6 year old son, running drills, layups and shooting baskets.

Photographic evidence that at one point I did play organized sports. 

That’s my sister in the back, hey girl!

Fearless Over Formative

Earlier yesterday morning, I wrote this Instagram caption “I wish 2015 Me could see 2018 Me…”.  In reality, I wish 1998, 2004, 2010 Me could see 2018 Me.  I’ve spent so many years running the court, standing invisibly and praying no one passed me the proverbial ball.   What if I fumbled?  What if I look a like a fool?  What if I fail?  What if I let everyone down?

Oh gosh, I miss this girl, but I am finding my way back.

This January, I wrote down FEARLESS as my word of the year.  Putting myself out there every few days on Ooh La Laura, Instagram and Facebook and waiting to see the results of views and likes is not always the easiest seat to sit in.  In fact, a 2015 Laura would probably throw in the towel.   However, 2018 Laura doesn’t believe that good, fruitful things come without a lot of dedication, perseverance and tenacity.  2018 Laura, Read-one-too-many–Jen Hatmaker–books–Laura, Fearless-Word-of-the-Year Laura is going to keep on.

With a selfie game this strong, I was destined for this lifestyle blog schtick.  Kim K – take notes.

I lost to N in a game of P-I-G and made ONE of 50+ shots while Y-goers passed by.  I’ve spent 20 years missing out on the joy to be had despite the fumbling, foolish and failing moments.  At dinner, N told my husband that “mom doesn’t really know how to play sports.”  We’re heading back to the Y tonight for round 2.  Mama’s about to teach you a thing or two, son.

Everything about this photo is all the confidence I need in the world.

Mindy Kaling For President

Let me end with the thought that has been on my mind on repeat since I heard it.  Mindy Kaling delivered the commencement speech at her Alma Mater, Dartmouth, this past weekend.  She said:

You have to have insane confidence in yourself, even if it’s not real. You need to be your own cheerleader now, because there isn’t a room full of people waiting with pom‑poms to tell you, “You did it! We’ve been waiting all this time for you to succeed!”

Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something, but especially not yourself. Go conquer the world. Just remember this: Why not you? You made it this far.”

In a 1991 department store catalog you will find this.  My big [and only] break.

Why Ooh La Laura?

This my friends + readers is the why of Ooh La Laura.  For years, I’ve thought why would anyone take advice from me, listen to me, read what I have to write.  But, why not me?

As a mom of 3 and one income family, there aren’t a lot of opportunities to doll up [shocking I know].  Through Ooh La Laura, I am able to step into a lot of those “some-day” outfits, try out new beauty products, and tackle a home improvement DIY project.  Sharing these moments isn’t in vain.  My heart leaps for joy to share a discount and to inspire someone to build it, work for it, save it or spend it [some things require a splurge].

At least 1998 Laura is doing something 2018 Laura approves of.  Relax…it’s just juice.
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