BETWEEN | THE LINES

by dailykongfidence

Lines are everywhere. From lanes on a street to the lines we read on the pages of a book. Then there are bigger lines. The lines you cross to make things happen, or the lines that keep you where you are.

As a mom I’ve found myself struggling lately. On one side of the line I see an opportunity to focus on blogging and inspiring others through my perspective. On the other side of the line I see my family, my young kids who will grow up too quickly, who rather I play a board game with them than be glued to my phone or laptop.

I waver between these lines constantly. Some days I am on the “influencer side” churning out blog posts and Instagram content like crazy. Other days, mostly on weekends, I am on the “family side” going to basketball games and doing arts and crafts with my kids. And of course there are days when I have one foot on each side of the line. That’s when I panic, when I have to choose one or the other, when one may be a potential career, yet the other is my beautiful present.

In the past few months I’ve come to a realization. I used to see these lines confining me to be one thing or another. That I had to give 100% to only one and let the other slowly suffer. But it isn’t about making one choice and never looking back. Now I see these lines as temporary fields where when I am on one side I can fully be a blogger, but as soon as I step to the other side I can fully be a wife and mother. I’m slowly learning to turn it on and turn it off. Learning that I can cross the line to make things happen career wise, but also knowing that by staying on the other side doesn’t mean I am not moving forward, it just means I am living in the present. So whatever side I choose to stand on for that day, for that moment, I can give it my all and be content.

Do you struggle with balance between work, family, blogging, etc. and if so, what are some of your thoughts? I would love to hear!

P.S. These outfit details are out “lined” below.

/ Dress /
Dress | StyleStalker similar item here
Belt | J. Crew (sold out in white) similar item here and here
Necklace | Gorjana similar item here
Clutch | August (sold out) similar item here
Shoes | Adidas similar item here
Sunglasses | Zero UV similar item here, here, and here

/ Bodysuit /
Bodysuit | Zara similar item here and here
Jeans | STS Blue (sold out) similar items here and here
Necklace | Gorjana similar item here
Bag | Gucci similar items here, and here
Shoes | (old) similar styles here, here, and here
Sunglasses | Celine similar items here and here

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68 comments

Karen Shannon April 13, 2017 - 12:35 am

You look stunning!
Stay in Style
Karen @ Lookbook Store Blogspot

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Tina April 13, 2017 - 3:27 am

In love with the blue striped blouse ♥
Such a perfect look!!

xxx
Tina
http://www.styleappetite.com

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Aurela lacaj April 13, 2017 - 8:46 am

I love this post Christine! I hope I don’t get caught up at work reading your blog but 🙂 I was very intrigued when I saw your IG post. As a mommy I can totally relate in some degree. Since my son older and is far away from me I don’t have to struggle with choosing a line between spending time with him or blog. I am struggling to juggle my work and relationship with my fiancé. As much as I love to spent time with him and enjoy being present I get so caught up on turning my blog into a career. I am slowly learning to switch it off and taking the weekends off just to be with him helps a lot. Social media and blogging can be tiring and taking time off is a must to some degree.
Have a great day!
Aurela xoxo

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dailykongfidence April 13, 2017 - 11:42 am

Thanks so much for your comment Aurela. I can relate to your struggle in your relationship bc even my hubbie feels neglected at times and I am trying every day to find that balance and really focus when I am in the moment. I’ve learned to take that time off during the weekends and try not to always be on my phone which helps a lot.

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Kristina - Occasionally Fashionable April 13, 2017 - 11:14 am

Love your honesty. It’s so hard to wear many hats at once. Keep focusing on being the best you and it will all fall into place.

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dailykongfidence April 13, 2017 - 11:43 am

Hi Kristina. Thank you so much. I think as a mom we will always struggle between the balance of blogging and spending time with them. I hope I am doing my best in everything I can and it will pay off. =)

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Stephanie April 13, 2017 - 1:13 pm

You know I always struggle with this. I always feel like I’m not doing either well. I like your approach on crossing the lines and being present in the present, whichever side you are on. You are a great Mama, and a great blogger. Your family’s happiness and the success of this blog proves it!

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dailykongfidence April 13, 2017 - 9:59 pm

I totally feel the same. I think the struggle is real for us all. You are too sweet and I appreciate your comment! xoxo.

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Jasmine K April 13, 2017 - 7:23 pm

What a perfect post! I don’t have any kids but I definitely find myself juggling my blog, my relationship, my day job, and my start-up. I’ve come to realize that organization is key and taking breaks from everything is a must. I’m sure your kids are very proud of you = )

– Jasmine K
http://www.myeunoia.com

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dailykongfidence April 13, 2017 - 10:01 pm

Aww thanks Jasmine. I think this post is relatable to many even those without kids because we all have a lot on our plates and want to do it all. I agree that taking breaks is key and I hope that you are finding balance as well.

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Sophie April 14, 2017 - 6:57 am

The dress look is so perfect.I’m loving the lines on the two outfits.Your pictures also look so great.This is so fantastic.
http://sophieatieno.com

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dailykongfidence April 15, 2017 - 10:23 pm

Thank you Sophie. I am not usually a “stripes” person, but these lines work for me!

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Jenelle April 14, 2017 - 8:45 pm

I will have to get my friend Emily (@shedoesstyle) to read this post, I think that she has been feeling a bit the same, we were discussing this earlier in the week. I think you have to find that energy to go into both, but accept that one will have a lot of focus some of the time, while the other has less, and vice versa, though, I think finding that is not easy. Beating yourself up over it is the worst thing you can do though.
xx Jenelle
http://www.inspiringwit.com

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dailykongfidence April 15, 2017 - 10:24 pm

Ahhh, thanks Jenelle. It’s definitely a daily struggle and I know a lot of bloggers go through it even if they don’t have a family, it could be finding a balance between anything. I appreciate your comments. Have a great weekend!

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Camille April 15, 2017 - 9:15 am

Amazing post and I love your style 🙂 I agree, it can be difficult to balance the demands of life.

Camille xo

http://www.cococami.blogspot.co.uk

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dailykongfidence April 15, 2017 - 10:27 pm

Hi Camille. Thank you so much. It sounds horrible, but misery loves company and it is comforting to know that so many of us struggle with finding a balance for all the things that we need to do in life.

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Open Kloset By Karina April 15, 2017 - 2:51 pm

Hey Beautiful,
100% Understand you, being a Full Time Blogger and A Mom, Wife it can be very Difficult… Blogging takes a Lot of time, And to be honest, I don’t have Kids yet, But seeing my Life and Days , I dunno how I would manage all what you are doing….
I want kids of course but To find the perfect Balance not easy… But well everything is possible:) I think you are doing Amazing Job and you are a Great Mom:)
loved Both Look but the First Dress was my Favorite:) Very Unique One;)
Love Kisses
Open Kloset By Karina
Happy Easter

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dailykongfidence April 15, 2017 - 10:29 pm

Awww, thanks Karina, it means a lot to me. As a mom, you never feel like it is enough but I also know that I have to do things for myself. I love that this dress can be dressed up or down and the stripes elongate my petite frame. =)

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Amy April 16, 2017 - 12:07 am

I love your style and honesty! Always been a fan.

http://theblushingpink.com/

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dailykongfidence April 16, 2017 - 11:14 am

Thank you Amy, you are too sweet. I hope you are having a great Easter weekend.

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Lauren Nakagawa April 16, 2017 - 2:37 pm

Loving your stripes and both looks! Happy Easter Christine!

xx
Lauren
http://www.shoesandsashimi.com

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dailykongfidence April 16, 2017 - 5:05 pm

Thank you Lauren. I don’t usually wear stripes but I loved the stripes on these outfits. Hope you had a fantastic Easter too!

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Jennifer Lee Quattrucci April 16, 2017 - 4:38 pm

Thank you so much for this post. I feel like you have almost read my mind because so much of my life is exactly how you described. I am a wife and mother first and my career choice has been kindergarten teacher for 20 years. My blogging and Instagramming has fulfilled a creative side or void I was feeling. It started as a hobbie but at times becomes an overwhelming obsession in which my husband will wash the floors, make dinner and take the kids to the playground all so I can have quiet time to meet deadlines. And then I’ll feel guilty. It’s hard to find a balance because I have to work when I’m inspired and have to live in the moment , like you said , to enjoy these precious years with my family. I am just glad to know someone so successful, inspiring and who I respect has some of the same issues.
I absolutely adore the way you have styled this outfit too!
Hope you had a beautiful Easter !
Love,
Jennifer

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dailykongfidence April 16, 2017 - 5:11 pm

Hi Jennifer. Thank you so much for this comment. I think we can all appreciate the amount of things we all have on our plates and how to juggle it all. I totally feel that mommy guilt too with having my hubbie pick up some of the slack so that I can fulfill my passions as well. I know we will find our balance soon and it will always be a constant decision we need to make, but I also think we need to do things for ourselves and be happy in our choices. Happy Easter to you and your family too!

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Akshaya April 16, 2017 - 8:27 pm

Omg such a great post! I feel so stupid complaining about being a full-time consultant and a new blogger haha, to think that you’re managing all of this with kids is amazing! Also love the striped dress on you, you look great 🙂

-Akshaya
http://www.theiyerorder.com

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dailykongfidence April 17, 2017 - 4:20 pm

Oh no, it’s the same thing having a full time job and blogging is just as difficult too. We all have our struggles to balance what we do in life and one is not more than the other. I think it’s just about finding the balance and learning to say no to certain things that will help us find time to do both of what we love.

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Linh Dao April 16, 2017 - 11:02 pm

You are seriously my inspiration on this. I love that you feel this way because I feel the same way. I don’t have kids but I do have battles between two sides of my life. I sometimes feel like I’m living a double life. But I am slowly learning to turn it on and off as well and live in the present. I love your outfit babe.

Linh
http://www.xcapewithlinh.com

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dailykongfidence April 17, 2017 - 4:23 pm

Hi Linh! I think we all have things we struggle to balance and mine just happens to be blogging and my family. I am glad this post is relatable to many and I am hearing that lots of people have the same balancing act whether it be between working, personal life, etc. You are doing an amazing job at both and I think we will all find a good balance through trial and error.

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Liz April 17, 2017 - 7:01 am

I love your outfits – very chic!

Liz
http://www.liznroad.com

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dailykongfidence April 17, 2017 - 4:24 pm

Thank you Liz! I hope you had a fab weekend.

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Susanne - Bag at you April 17, 2017 - 9:32 am

Love the lines!!! Especially love that top, so cute with the different layers! And what a beautiful written article! I understand your struggle, even though I don’t have kids yet. But I think you are doing an awesome job! Keep up the good work!! Big Xx Susanne – http://bagatyou.com

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dailykongfidence April 17, 2017 - 8:08 pm

Hi Susanne. Thank you so much for your sweet comment. I didn’t think I would like this Zara bodysuit, but once I tried it on and saw that it could be worn different ways (untied too and left to flow), I fell in love.

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Len Parent April 17, 2017 - 10:36 am

You look absolutely gorgeous darling. Perfect look as always!
Much love,Len
http://www.lenparent.com

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dailykongfidence April 17, 2017 - 8:08 pm

Thank you Len!

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Jessi Malay April 17, 2017 - 12:44 pm

Such a gorgeous blouse babe! I love the combination of the different stripes… it gives it such a trendy, yet still classic look! Thanks so much for sharing babe! <3

XO Jessi,
http://www.mywhitet.com/coachella-with-guess/

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dailykongfidence April 17, 2017 - 8:10 pm

Thanks Jessi! Gotta love Zara right?

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Cinthy Kwok April 17, 2017 - 12:54 pm

Great photos and outifts!

xx, Cinthy Kwok

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dailykongfidence April 17, 2017 - 8:10 pm

Thank you so much Cinthy!

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Danielle @ Follow My Gut April 17, 2017 - 3:46 pm

I can only imagine how difficult it is to be both mom and blogger, but I love that you are trying to find the balance of both. I know you will be able to do it and will find a way to ensure both stay in happy harmony! That aside I love the stripes and lines in these outfits. The darkness and the density of the second outfit has all my attention and would be one I would totally rock myself. Until then, I have no probably sending you all the thumbs up for this one!!! Great outfit as always <3

Danielle | FollowMyGut.com <3

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dailykongfidence April 17, 2017 - 8:12 pm

Hi Danielle. Thank you for your thoughtful comment. I definitely am working everyday to find balance and a happy medium doing both. It’s followers and readers like you that make everything worth it. =)

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Amy April 17, 2017 - 4:39 pm

Christine, I really admire your honesty and vulnerability here! I totally can relate to the struggle of choosing between multiple things that bring you joy, happiness, and content. An article I read recently that really resonated was this: https://hbr.org/2004/02/success-that-lasts.

Hopefully it can be of some help to you as well 🙂

xx, Amy
http://www.theluxilook.com

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Aimara April 17, 2017 - 6:37 pm

Loving all these stripes babe!
Love both looks! Your pictures are always so stunning, you are so stunning!
I do struggle with having a balance, although is not the same because I don’t have kids or a hubby, but on the weekends I like to spend it with my friends and my boyfriend. What I do, is completely disconnect on the weekends unless there’s a big event or something important going on. I also started being more selective with the events I go to during the week, so that way I have my evenings off 🙂
Hope it helps babe and good luck! And no worries, what you’re going through is normal!
XO
Aimara
http://www.waysofstyle.com

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dailykongfidence April 17, 2017 - 8:13 pm

Hi Aimara! Thank you so much for your tips on how you disconnect on weekends. I definitely am working on being more selective when it comes to events and learning to be efficient when I do things too so that I am getting the full use of my time. I appreciate your comments and your support. xoxo.

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Brown Eyed Toast April 17, 2017 - 9:52 pm

It’s incredible how you can balance being a mother as well as a full-time blogger! Every single blog post or social post definitely takes a lot of time. Add to that the normal stresses of being a mother, and it’s hard to even imagine doing it all. But I”m glad you’ve found a very healthy and realistic way to manage these two different areas of your life. I like how you described them as areas across lines, almost like two different rooms you go back and forth between. You’re right in that it’s impossible to be doing both or being in both places at the same time. So the best we can do is balance and alternate. And I love how you embrace being on either side of the line by embracing the present. Such a great mindset, I applaud you! And of course, I can’t finish this comment without mentioning your fabulous striped looks. That blue top with the voluminous sleeves is just gorgeous, and I love how easy-going and versatile that white one is for all occasions. Thanks for sharing!

xo Soo | http://www.BrownEyedToast.com

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dailykongfidence April 20, 2017 - 4:06 pm

You said it perfectly, like going into one room or another! I definitely work on this on a daily basis and am working towards finding a great balance that makes everyone happy including myself. Thank you so much Soo!

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Diana April 18, 2017 - 5:21 am

I have a same feeling, when I have to fight between wife and blogger. My husband need a lot of attention and support due his career and I try to help him to be successful. I don’t even know how you always look so beautiful, fit and having kids. I always jealous of mother, who manage to be a super wife, mom and blogger!

http://www.queenhorsfall.com/

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dailykongfidence April 20, 2017 - 4:09 pm

I think we can all relate to trying to balance our real lives versus our blogging lives and what sacrifices we have to make as well as how understanding our other responsibilities or obligations have to be. You are too sweet to say I look like I have it all together but I really don’t! I just do my best and try to make it happen!

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Nina Nguyen April 18, 2017 - 6:46 am

I love your honestly babe, but you got this!! You are so inspiring, keep pushing babe!! Love your outfits!!
xx-Nina

http://www.ninalnguyen.com/2017/04/transitioning-into-spring.html

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dailykongfidence April 20, 2017 - 4:10 pm

Thank you Nina! You are one of the people I love hearing from and why I do what I do!

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Mathilde April 18, 2017 - 1:02 pm

OMG babe those outfits are PERFECTION

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dailykongfidence April 20, 2017 - 4:11 pm

Thank you so much Mathilde!

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Jessica C April 18, 2017 - 4:52 pm

Christine you are such life goalz!! I have followed you for a while on Instagram and I am always amazed by your work. To hear that you actually do struggle with playing all these roles too is, on the one hand, kind of comforting, but also a little humbling. I recently got married and having kids is something that’s on the near horizon for us. I can’t believe how hard that would be!! Keep up the good work.. if anything, you are inspiring me to do more and be more!

Jessica || Cubicle Chic

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dailykongfidence April 20, 2017 - 4:13 pm

Awww, thank you for being such a loyal follower! I appreciate it and honestly it is people like you that I do what I do it for. I totally know what you are saying, it’s misery loves company and getting personal and showing my vulnurability makes me real. And I am real! I have struggles all the time. That’s why I love the blog…because I can talk about more personal things that aren’t always shown just on the squares of Instagram. Thank you so much for your sweet comment and for also inspiring me! Congrats on your recent wedding too babe!

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Jacqueline April 18, 2017 - 10:28 pm

I love how personal this is. I was just reading somewhere about not having to chose one or the other. About finding the perfect balance and it sounds like you’re there. Absolutely loving this striped dress on you

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dailykongfidence April 20, 2017 - 4:14 pm

Thank you Jacqueline! I do like to get a bit more personal at times on the blog and I am glad that I can let myself be open and connect with my followers too.

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Eliza April 19, 2017 - 2:34 am

There are a lot of things in life that tear us apart. So I can understand your struggle. I have so many unfinished things to do, but sometimes 24 hours is not enough to do so. That’s true when you give 100% to only one thing, the others suffer because of that. But it’s not always black and white. Anywayб I think if you’re into something you should never give up and continue doing what makes you happy. So all these lines probably indicate the direction and that’s it.
By the way, I’m absolutely in love with this striped romper you’re wearing! This is definitely a statement piece, I need it for summer!

Cheers, Eliza | http://www.fashion-confession.com

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dailykongfidence April 20, 2017 - 4:15 pm

Thank you Eliza, I agree. I wish the days were longer although we would probably try and squeeze more in then too! Finding the right balance can help us achieve everything we want…at least I hope so!

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Sheree April 19, 2017 - 2:39 am

This post describes exactly how I feel lately as well!! I have the exact struggles between the blogger and the mom. Which is why I try not to do anything social media related and just shut it off on weekends. My husband said the other day that when he has to take pictures of me and the kids for “mommy and me” shoots I am taking time away from family time. But since the kids are in school most days during the day, there really isn’t any other time to do it so I feel guilty. It is a touch balance between career woman and full time mom so we just need to train our brains to turn it on and off at whichever environment we find ourselves in. I also leave my phone in a different room when my kids are home so they get full mommy time 🙂

~ xo Sheree
Posh Classy Mom
Instagram

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dailykongfidence April 20, 2017 - 4:04 pm

I totally appreciate this comment from one mommy to another. We definitely have to make some sacrifices but we are also doing what we love and hopefully that also sets an example to our kids. I agree with just shutting off on the weekends. It is hard for me to completely shut off but I think I will try it!

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Maryam April 19, 2017 - 11:41 am

I absolutely love this dress, it’s flattering on you. And I hear you girl, it’s hard to find a balance. I don’t have kids but I have a full time job and blogging full time, I barely have time for myself. I’m constantly work and I sure struggle to keep up with my regular tasks. But seeing other hard working bloggers like you, I’m inspired to do more.

xo, Maryam
http://www.glamandposh.com

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Thomas Falkenstedt April 19, 2017 - 2:59 pm

I love how you lined the outfit to the subject of the post, that is, the lines of life. As much as I love stripes, reading about your life is captivating and I do wonder how you manage it all. For me work, school and blogging, doing all three full time, was overwhelming and hence I did quit my day job a while ago and so far it has been the best decision of my life! I admire you being both a working mother and still having the time to put so much time and effort to create great content for social media! You’re strong and successful and have my full support in keep going on. However, please do take a break if it becomes too overwhelming, as I know it can do that at times.
xoxo
Thomas

http://thomasfalkenstedt.com

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Sofia April 19, 2017 - 8:34 pm

You are totally rocking all of these stripes!! I have a similar striped dress that I just LOVE and this reminded me that its time to bring out the summer pieces again. But out of all of these the bodysuit and top combination I just LOVE. Its bold but still subtle. Perfect pairing with a simple bag and jeans!

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Eva April 20, 2017 - 12:22 am

As I understand you, I also loved as a mother I realize how hard do I stand back to all, like the home, family also to swimming because I practice competitive swimming right now I can not do everything! Important to find balance in everything. Your looks are always very clean, inspiring and youth. Thank god 😉
Xx
Eva
http://www.themermaidfashion.com

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Chloe April 20, 2017 - 11:54 am

I really love your style! Both stripe outfits look so nice on you! My favorite is the dress, looove the unique hem! 🙂

xo, Chloe // http://funinthecloset.com/if-we-went-to-coachella/

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dailykongfidence April 23, 2017 - 8:23 pm

Thank you Chloe! The dress is amazing and I love that it also has pockets!

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Miki April 23, 2017 - 7:56 pm

Love your striped outfit. You look so chic. I purchased an all stripe outfit back in February, and it just wasn’t my silhouette, but loving this piece and all the new options, so I’ll have to revisit for sure. I don’t have a family, but I have a very boyish athletic personality and like to work out a lot, and haven’t figured out how to really present that in a way that mixes well with the blog yet. I also find it hard to turn off blogging when I’m trying to have quality time with family or the husband, but completely admire that you are able to do it so well! I always love your content and you’re an inspiration, Christine. 🙂

Xo,
Miki
http://mikialamode.com

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dailykongfidence April 23, 2017 - 8:34 pm

Thank you so much Miki. I also have struggled to keep up my workouts with everything else. I made myself a promise to at least hit the gym 3x a week about two months ago so I have been adding that into my schedule as well. I’ve found that you have to fully immerse yourself in what you are doing at that time and that helps to create some balance.

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Len Parent April 25, 2017 - 8:25 am

I’m obsessed both of these looks darling. You look stunning and flawless! You are such an inspiration!
Have a wonderful week!
Much love, Len
http://www.lenparent.com

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