Happy Monday and happy October! I’m excited to be kicking off the month with a fun giveaway for you guys.
I love my job for a lot of reasons, but the number one lately is connecting with and learning from you on a daily basis. I appreciate your love and mom tips more than you can ever know! When I’m going through a tough time (cluster feeding, sleep regression), I hop on Instagram and always get sage advice (most of the time) and words of wisdom. And that’s pretty amazing!
I feel like I have my very own little community of digital friends. Not to mention, I wouldn’t be able to keep Lemon Stripes alive without you coming to visit me here.
So, I want to share the love right back with you all…
To do that, I teamed up with Grace, Jess, Liz, and Ashley to bring you an awesome fall giveaway! Today through Friday, you can enter to win a $1000 fall shopping spree. All you have to do is enter your email below.
You can use the $1000 on whatever you want! Chunky sweaters? All of the plaids? Up to you. Treat yourself to a fall spa day or take your family on a leaf peeping vacation. It’s $1000, just for you. My only request is that if you win, you use the money to do something that makes you truly happy. The sky is the limit!
If you enter, comment below letting me know what you would spend the money on. For my favorite answer, I’ll donate $200 to the charity of your choice, the same amount I put in for the joint giveaway. I was conflicted about giving away so much money for material items when so many people are suffering right now, so I thought I’d try to do something small.
Note: By entering, you’ll be added to all of our email lists. You can unsubscribe from any of them as soon as you get the first emails so if that’s not your thing, we totally understand.
I would definitely buy another barefoit dreams cardigan. They are now my favorite! !
I’m almost 7 months pregnant and will be a FTM soon! There’s so many ways I could use this not only for me but also my baby girl! Hello spa day!
I would definitely use the money to plan a trip back to Africa…the nature, the people, the animals…oh, how I miss it! We spent two weeks there on our honeymoon and it was truly life changing. Fingers crossed!
xo,
Alexis
http://www.southendstyle.wordpress.com
I would take a trip with my 7 year old daughter to the American girl store. She has been begging for a doll! And then I would go to the spa with my mama.
I would use the money to visit my brother that just moved to New York over Thanksgiving. We’d explore the city- go out to dinner and do some shopping! <3
My husband and I have a baby girl due in late January/early February. While financials aren’t in the best place, we could not be more excited for her to join our family soon! I would definitely use the money to get her nursery and life essentials, as well as put some away to save for any possible needs she may have in the upcoming months!
I’m 16 weeks pregnant with no maternity benefits at my job (thus no paid maternity leave) and therefore I’ve been saving Paid Time Off the whole time I’ve worked there knowing we wanted another kiddo. As a result, I haven’t been able to take more than a few hours off at a time for the last year (even during morning sickness misery this summer) to spend with my husband and almost-two year old. SO I would use the money on a long weekend getaway for our little family to rest and enjoy this phase of life while we anticipate the next baby!
I would definitely use it for a cozy spa day! A massage and a body scrub sounds like a heavenly way to unwind after just starting a new job!
I am a new mom as well and I hate to sound a bit greedy, but I would totally use some of that money on myself. Spa day, new clothing. A little pampering every now and then for a new mom is totally needed and I have not taken my own advice. That said, having a little girl, I would 100% spend some on her as well. How cute is little girl clothing and accessories?! And diapers…..those seem to go so quickly!
I would use the money to help pay off some of my student debt, and donate it to people who need just a little bit of help to get by, where a small amount of cash would make a big difference, like a student who needs to pay for one more class to graduate, or a person with a go fund me to fly and visit their dying relatives. I’d want to use the money to do small, meaningful acts of kindness.
I’d use it for a holiday with my hubby, just the two of us. We’re trying fro a baby, but it’s not always as easy as most of the people make it out to be and money is a bit tight right now.
I would buy new fall matching Tory Burch plaid boots and bag that I have been ogling over!
I would spend 800 on myself for a new wardrobe for a new job I’m hoping to have in a few weeks and the leftover 200 would be to support the local food bank and shelters with supplies/food/cooking for the holidays for them!
Love that you are also donating for the best response. As a reader who always comes back it’s nice to see the “real ness” of the blogger!
I would use the money to take a trip with my boyfriend. We’ve been long distance for 6 years and would love to spend some time together in a beautiful place!
As a recent grad struggling to find a job, my finances have been TIGHT for months. My incredibly sweet boyfriend and I are celebrating 3 years together at the end of the month, and we want to take a trip to the NC and TN mountains. I’d use the money for fun splurges on our trip (cute camping clothes included!), and a perfect anniversary dinner with him. 🙂
I would take the money and use it to see family. My brother, sister and I all live in different place so I would love to use the money to rent a place and have us together for a weekend. We don’t get to see each other all the much with growing families so I think ti would be really fun.
I would love a family trip. My youngest daughter is a senior in high school and my other daughter is in college. Would love for the 4 of us to getaway before we are empty nesters. Time flies. Enjoy every single minute with your children. It’s what life is ALL about.
Our basement was just flooded, and one of the things we lost were our winter jackets. I would use this money to buy my fiance and I new ones.
The charity of my choice would be Saint John Ambulance therapy dogs. My dog and I are on a waiting list to volunteer at retirement homes…he is the sweetest dog and everyone lights up when they see him. I can’t wait to share his love – I was told our orientation is soon 🙂
We just had baby #2 (a girl) a month ago! I would use some of the money to buy some fun baby things for her (obviously, haha), but most of it would go towards helping pay down some of our bills for her delivery and her followup care.
As far as the charity, I would love to help support one of the communities affected by the recent hurricanes.
I would use it to take a trip to surprise my sister for the holidays! If I had any left over after the travel expenses, I would spend it on plenty of healthy road snacks 🙂
Thanks for hosting! I’d use the money for a fall shopping spree (need allll the flannels, and a cute dress), apple picking if the season is still going on with hubs and another couple, and probably a mini getaway at an airbnb to soak in some New England foliage! Maple
I would use the money to help plan a small trip for my mom and me over the holiday break! I’m in college and live away from my family. My mom has and always will be my best friend, so getting to spend a little time with her would be so refreshing for the both of us!
I’d spend it on a haircut and a plane ticket to visit my family. I have a new nephew that I haven’t met yet.
Post baby wardrobe!!
a trip for my husband and I !
I would put the money towards a baby moon! We’re in the midst of home renovations and designing the nursery so I would love to step away for the weekend for some one on one time with no distractions.
We have been going through the process of adoption. It’s very exciting, but a little overwhelming, and exhausting at times. I’d use the giveaway prize on a much needed fall getaway for us ❤️
I would purchase some new clothes for my husband. He has been the biggest supporter while I’ve been in nurse anesthetist school. He has lived minimally and selflessly throughout these 8 years, and it’s about time he gets some pampering!
This is such a generous offer, both the giveaway and the charitable donation. Thank you! I would use the money towards a spa weekend to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary! ❤️ We now have three little ones, we could definitely use a quiet weekend getaway.
Postpartum cleaning service, since cleaning is my least favorite thing to do in the world. I might put some finishing touches on baby girl’s room as well.
Good morning! I would either put the money towards paying off part of my student loans or I would buy a few items of clothing for work. I struggle with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) and my weight fluctuates a lot because of it. I’m the heaviest I’ve ever been at this point in my life, and I keep finding myself having to change my wardrobe in order to keep clothes that fit. It’s challenging, and frankly exhausting. I struggle with my self-esteem because of the weight gain, and at this time there isn’t enough research and help for women who struggle with weight gain because of PCOS.
Baby #2 has a due date of 10/10 (fast approaching!) and my little love will be born extra special, with a CHD. I’d use the money to buy my 3 yo a gift since mommy will be in the hospital a lot, put some towards our health insurance deductible and lastly indulge in the simple pleasure of a pumpkin spice candle (because let’s be real, living in AZ we don’t have a Fall season when we’re still in the 100’s…have to pretend somehow!). (Charity of choice is: Children’s Heart Foundation http://www.childrensheartfoundation.org/donate-now). Thank you for considering!!
My mom and I have an upcoming girls’ trip to Charleston and I would use the money to treat us to food, drinks, shopping in a new city to both of us!
I’m due with my first baby in January and since it will be a busy time of year with the holidays and my husband’s and my work schedule, we just couldn’t make a baby shower happen. I would spend the money to purchase what I will need for the baby. Thank you for such a generous giveaway!
I am a PhD student and I work in the biomedical science research field, where I work to study causes and treatments for congenital heart disease. Or field has suffered greatly from cuts in federal funding, especially in the state of Maine. If I am lucky enough to win this contest, I would use the money for conference travel to continue to spread awareness, educate others on scientific progress and continue to make progress on my degree. If awarded, I would also use the money to buy a new suit so that I can really look the part when I travel to present science! The charity of my choice would be to recognize the saving tiny hearts foundation, an organization that supports my and many others research on congenital hearts disease. Having just had a baby myself, I am forever aware of the clinical as well as emotional impact that funding from these organizations makes possible and will continue to wrk towards supporting their cause in any way possible. Thank you!!!!!!!
I just passed the Bar in North Carolina and I’m currently searching for my first job as an attorney. I would put part of the money toward the nude suede Tory Burch tote I’ve been eyeing this season and the other part of it toward saving for new furniture to redecorate when I move into a new apartment.
this is such a generous giveaway! i agree, with all of the craziness in the world it is tough to be thinking of materialistic things. at the end of the day, the reason why i choose to follow you and the other lovely ladies is because it is a beautiful (yet still realistic) detachment from the negativity in the world. so, thank you for that!
if i could win the $1k i would put it to good use in our home. we purchased our first house and moved in just three weeks before our baby girl arrived earlier this summer, and needless to say we still have an empty room that needs some TLC. i would also be sure to get some matching outfits for me & my sweet girl! xo
I am currently in graduate school at Oxford, studying Greek and Latin Literature. I hope to move to Boston to become a high school teacher after graduation, and this money would help make that dream come true (i.e. textbooks, student loans). My charity of choice is Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). Not quite a charity, but they could certainly use a donation. I was as CASA in college, and I worked to represent the interests of abused/neglected children who were sent into the foster care system by the Department of Social Services.
I would donate 1/3 to a charity to help in Puerto Rico and the rest to student loans. Becoming debt free is what would make me happy
What a way to start October with such generosity!
If I was fortunate enough to win, I would use a small portion to buy new pants to fit my post-baby body since I melted in a puddle of tears yesterday trying on all my current pairs, and none of them fit right anymore! I lost all of the baby weight, but my shape changed. The rest would go to a mother-daughter trip with my mom. She’s guided me through some tough times recently helping me to see what I’d been feeling after my son was born wasn’t just sadness but PPD. She’s helped me help myself yet again (even at 35 years old!) like all moms do:) She deserves all of the love and pampering in the world I can give her considering everything she continues to do for me.
I would use the money on our upcoming baby moon for baby #2. We have been looking forward to spending time together (alone) before the newest member of the family arrives in a couple months. Thank goodness for grandmas make it all happen:)
I would put the money towards buying my first home…hopefully!
What a fun and uplifting way to start October. If I were fortunate enough to win I’d use the money buy things we need and want for our baby girl arriving in December. We are more excited for her arrival than we can express, but also a little overwhelmed by preparing for her arrival.
If I was to win a $1000 I would use it to assist getting moved in to my fiancé and I first home. Whatever is left, I would use to start my own lifestyle blog!
This is such an amazing giveaway, thanks doing it! I would use the money to have a fall shopping spree with my mom! Growing up, she was the kind of mom who never said no when I asked for new clothes, whether she could truly afford them or not. As a single mom, this often meant that if she bought me clothes she wouldn’t be able to buy herself anything new. I would love to repay her and take her on shopping trip where she could buy whatever she wanted without worrying about the price.
Good morning, Julia! What a great giveaway! I just graduated from law school in May and now have a mountain of debt. I’d use the money to try and start making a dent in my student loan payments and maybe to buy a few Christmas presents for my family. If I were fortunate enough to win, I’d love for some money to go to an organization that helps out the homeless people in our communities.
Thanks! Olivia
What a great giveaway! I would start by giving money towards Puerto Rico funds and then use the rest for a massage and fall sweaters! I am recently engaged and now on a spending budget for the future wedding so this would be an amazing giveaway to win!!
Such a generous giveaway!! I just love your blog and insta stories! I would definitely donate some of this to Puerto Rico , but also, we just had our fourth baby just about 2 months ago… and since I was so pregnant all summer, we didn’t get to do much with the kids! ( we now have 4 kids under 7!) I think it would be so much fun to have an overnight away with them to show them how special they all are to my husband and I. Even if it’s just a local trip to the city or somewhere on east coast to enjoy some pumpkins and fall weather somewhere! It’s been hard juggling everyone and I have major mom guilt. I need to get out of my house a bit too! It would be a nice break from the usual home routine!!
This really is such a wonderful opportunity. Thank you to everybody who put this together – keeping my fingers so tightly crossed !
My husband promised me a long weekend away, just the two of us, when I stop breastfeeding. So if I won, the money would go towards that – some peace and quiet and special time with my husband (which you know is a rarity with a newborn!)
What a great thing you guys are doing! I’ve really loved your pregnancy/motherhood posts, as my first daughter just turned one month yesterday so I feel like I’m looking slightly ahead and learning so much when I read/watch your posts! Even though I’ve ‘lost’ the baby weight, my body is completely different post-baby so I’m in need of some new pants and fall tops that I would spend some of 1K on. The rest of the money would go towards baby necessities, because as prepared as I thought I was, there is still so much that I’m finding I need. Unpaid maternity leave is hard, but I’d rather cut back on spending and get to spend these 12 weeks with my little girl than go back too soon and regret it! Keep posting baby updates – Amalia is so precious!!
This is a wonderful giveaway! We could definitely use a bit more kindness in the world. I would use the money to treat my husband to a weekend away. Being in the military, we haven’t seen each other much lately without being stressed out and I think time to decompress would be extremely helpful. <3
Such a great way to engage followers! Personally, I’d use the prize to prep for our miracle baby, due this spring 🙂 Our tiny NYC space isn’t designed for an infant, so we have some accommodating (aka, creative spacial reassignment) to do before she arrives! I’m trying to avoid my friend’s recommendation, that we use our dresser as a bassinet :/ I’d also donate a portion to relief efforts in PR, particularly for animal rescue.
Love it! Bring on all of the booties, scarves, cords, and pumpkin spice lattes. It’s not the fall in the south yet, but I love living vicariously through your posts!
I’m in law school with the dream of becoming a human rights lawyer, so I’d put the money towards my tuition!
Such a fun giveaway! I would donate part of the money and then use the money to help pay for a trip to take our little one to visit her grandparents! We live far away from them at the moment since my hubbie is completing his degree and plane tickets are expensive! I’d love for her to spend more time with them!! And maybe a pair of jeans for mom that actually fit my postpartum body! 😉
Clothing that makes me feel my best as a new mother!
amazing giveaway! I’d use it for a flight to go see my parents at Christmas and a visit to friends in my former city of Charlottesville and some Virginia wine. I’d also get a little electric faux fireplace bc my cute Victorian apt is cold as all get out in the winter!
A-w-e-s-o-m-e giveaway! Thanks for the chance to win 🙂
I love that you did this, Julia! And so excited to team up with you on this. Hope you guys had a great weekend. XOXO
If I won, I would use the money to help pay off some of my student loans and to take my mom out for a manicure/pedicure spa day to thank her for always supporting my education!
this is soooo incredible!!! Well, I would probably honestly use that money for my honeymoon in Australia during the month of december 🙂 I’m getting married in a month! my fiance and I have kept the wedding incredibly small because we thought that our relationship has been about the experiences we’ve shared along the way and so we thought we would invest in an adventure to celebrate our marriage rather than an extravagant ceremony & reception. This money could help us in so many ways!
I think this is such an awesome giveaway and message! I hope you’ll consider donating to hurricane relief in Puerto Rico or Houston, TX! Thank you for this opportunity <3
I would spend this money on a weekend away with my aunt and my grandmother to celebrate my late mother’s favorite time of year: Christmas. We would go somewhere in Vermont and do all of her favorite things. My mother passed away of breast cancer about 4 years ago and the three of us have not had a chance to really honor her in a way that will make us think of her and remember the incredible person she was.
I am currently buying a house and would use the money to make it a cozy home and to celebrate with my family! Thank you for the opportunity to enter!
I’d spend the money on a day at Disneyland for my family! My little girl is 18 months and I’d love to take her once it’s decorated for Christmas. I’m so excited to see the holidays through her eyes this year but Disney is so dang expensive!
I’d take the family to Disneyland once it’s decorated for Christmas! My little girl is 18 months and I’m so excited to see the holidays through her eyes this year. Disney is just so dang expensive!
What a cool idea. I would definitely be using the money to buy some BLUE. My little girl is 2 years old, but I am due in February with #2 and just found out it’s a BOY!! Oh my!
What a great giveaway! I would use the money on a special weekend getaway with my husband of 8+ years! We have two young boys and struggle to find time for just the two of us! Then of course with the extra money I would definitely update my fall wardrobe! 🙂
This giveaway is great and a nice way to give back! I recently got married and we are in the process of buying a house. I would use the money for home improvement projects that need to be done. Thanks for the opportunity to enter!
I had my rainbow baby on July 17 after multiple miscarriages. Motherhood has been wonderful thus far. I’d use the shopping spree to help update my wardrobe for my new postpartum body as well as purchase a few fall items for my beautiful baby girl.
Happy October! 🙂 I would use this prize on cute, Lemon Stripes inspired gifts for the closest women to me in my life. I also just moved into my first home, and would be so happy to use this for home decor that I wouldn’t usually be able to afford.
I would love to use this money to renovate a few rooms in my Grandmother’s home. She’s been dreaming of fresh painted walls and a new couch.
Love this giveaway and the fact that you’re donating to charity! I would definitely use it towards some fall clothes (not going to lie). Just moved to MA and need all the layers. But, I also would spend some on a spa day with my mom. She’s been uber stressed with my brothers wedding which is at the end of the month and her future daughter in law has been nasty and pushing her away and my bother has been no help and quite rude. She’s so stressed and just doing her best to help and be there for them and I feel terrible. I think she’d love a spa day with her only daughter (I have three brothers, oye) and I think she’d love the surprise and a day away from the whole ordeal! xoxo
I would put the money towards my wedding fund! My fiance and I paying for most of our wedding ourselves and both work in non-profit, so our budget it pretty low. Every little bit helps! Thanks for the opportunity to enter!
Such an amazing giveaway! I’d use part of it for an amazing meal out in NYC and I’d definitely buy a new coat for winter, too. This J.Crew one has been calling my name: https://www.jcrew.com/p/womens_category/outerwear/wool/tiewaist-topcoat-in-doubleserge-wool/G8009?color_name=bright-plum
I live in the south, where fall weather doesn’t hit until late October. It’s my favorite season and I soak up every second outside when the temperatures cool down. I would love a cozy cashmere cape, stylish sweater for football games, or knit blanket to cuddle under with my husband and two little ones. As for charity, my heart is with neglected and abused children. Our local children’s hospital has a new wing dedicated to kids who have been subjected to this type of cruelty, and I would love to contribute an extra $200 this fall.
I would buy fabulous boots!
Such an amazing giveway. I’ve lost ~50 lbs, so I could for sure use the money for new clothes, however I would also make a donation to the organization JARC. MY brother has Autism, and this organization is a non profit that does truly amazing things. They’ve provided my brother with an incredible life and enriched his life in ways that haven’t been possible. My family and I are forever grateful for them. It takes very special people to care for children and adults with disabilities, but JARC does it with such grace!
If I won I would take my husband on a weekend getaway of his choice. He works 90 hours a week for his MD-PhD program and he deserves a break and to be spoiled. He is such a hard worker and I would love the chance to treat him to something special!
Taylor | http://www.livingtaylored.com
I’m a new mom like you so I’d spend a little something on myself for once 🙂
Thanks for the generous giveaway! My mom turns 60 this year and I’d love to rent a big house in Vermont for a getaway for al of us- grandkids included!
I lost my dog early this year, so I would spend mine on adopting a puppy and using the money for vet/food/vaccinations for him or her! 🙂
This is such an incredible giveaway! I would use this money for some fall clothes. I would love to bring my wardrobe up to date!
I would love to use the money on a mini trip for my boyfriend and I! He always goes so above and beyond for me (and my parents) and I would love to say “thank you” through a Fall experience!
My fall wishlist includes a facial, sustainable fall clothes from Amour Vert (for every t-shirt purchased they plant a tree and everything is designed and made in the USA).. I’m loving the fall stuff right now. And last but not least I’d treat myself to a special personal training session or tennis lessons to improve my game!! 🙂
I am a labor and delivery nurse currently pursuing my master’s to become a nurse practitioner. I have been an advocate for women’s health my whole life and this past two years have been super busy with my 3 boys and husband (so really 4 boys lol), school and my job which I love. After I graduate (December! Woot woot!) my dream is to travel to either Guatemala or Africa with Saving Mothers. In a nutshell, they implement interventions to improve maternal health in underserved communities. It is too much to explain here, but it is an amazing organization. I would love to spend a few weeks volunteering and I would use the money to finance my flight and other expenses. Love your site and hope you have a great day!
I would spend the money on a fabulous fall outfit and put the rest in my savings as I pay for school to become a teacher!
Truth? The money would be spent on paying my dad’s at home aide. He’s 92, lives in my home & his aide is the angel & lifesaver who takes care of him so I can have peace of mind while I’m at work everyday. Couldn’t do it without her since we are the only 2 responsible for his care. Grateful & blessed to have that support but it’s been a struggle to pay out of pocket.
If I won I would put the money towards a plane ticket to Europe to visit my friends who are teaching English.
I would use the money to help my fiancé pay for his graduate school program. Trying to pay out of pocket is hard but student loans are harder.
I would use the money to move out if the city so that I can start a family with the love of my life! I’ve been living in a major city for years and now we are finally ready for room to grow our family. 🙂
I would use it to go visit my bestie in another state. Been through a lot this year and need my girl time! I already follow lemon stripes on insta, but it wouldn’t allow me to select complete.
I would put the money toward a plane trip home to California to visit my parents before the end of the year. I recently started a job in Dayton, Ohio and I am super homesick!
Thanks so much for this opportunity!
♡ Hannah
I would put the money toward Everytown for Gun Safety (https://everytown.org/act/) and flights home for Christmas! I’m from the Berkshires, but live in Portland, Oregon and always have to choose between going home for the holidays and saving for future expenses.
I would use the money to pay off a large ER bill I have from earlier this summer. I know that doesn’t sound like a very fun way to use it, but it would make me happy to not have that looking over my head!
I think I would use the money to travel, I have long list of places to go and life is too short! I’m going to agree with Abigail below. Please donate the money for Everytown for Gun Safety (https://everytown.org/act/). As an educator in a post Sandy Hook climate I take the safety of my kiddos seriously and clearly something needs to be done to keep the future safe.
I’m currently 10 weeks pregnant and have been so sick, nervous, and scared ever since I found out. While I’m so incredibly grateful and happy for this blessing, I think the happiness has been overshadowed by the constant morning sickness and the guilt of not being as joyful as I feel like I should be, as I’m always worried about whether I’d be able to make it through my teaching day without gagging or vomiting, and whether the baby is growing healthy. I’m nearing my second trimester (yay!) so I’m starting to feel a bit less worried and more excited (hopefully the morning sickness eases up soon, too!), and have been looking at cute outfits for the baby and cute maternity clothes for me (definitely including a couple oversized, chunky sweaters)! I’d use the money to buy some stuff for the baby and some for me so I can really start to enjoy being pregnant and get excited to welcome my little one to the world. And my charity of choice would United for Puerto Rico. Thank you!
-Kristine
I would use the money to put in my two little grandchildren’s savings accounts. I try to do something yearly but this is the year I’m unable to do it. I know it’s a Visa g.c. but I’d use it for bills and take the amount from my checking to give it to them that way. Your personal generosity is fantastic.
I would used it to buy my daughter boots and winter clothes. Lol I would say I’d spend it on myself, but let’s be honest when I go shopping for me, I always come with things for my baby. #momlife
After 3 years of trying, my husband and I recently found out that we’re pregnant. I still don’t really believe it, and am too excited, speechless, nervous, and anxious for words…still, (is this really happening?!?!?) Baby is due in April, so I would use the money to prepare and make the nursery the coziest little room ever…and maybe get some maternity clothes for me too 🙂 The charity I love most is the ASPCA. Thank you for this amazing chance!
I’m a mommy first of two beautiful girls and a first grade teacher second. It’s been hard to find time to invest in myself never mind finding clothes that make me feel more like my old self. So I would use your generous gift to feel confident and more polished.
I am a stay at home mom that is blessed to stay home but it requires being very careful financially – often cleets…car repairs…kids clothes…etc take precedence over treating myself to some confidence building cute clothes. My kids are older and the job market is going to require sharp attire. Oh boy it would be exciting to win.
I would use the money toward our upcoming trip to the UK. I haven’t been back since I studied abroad and I cannot wait to show my husband all my favorite spots, plus discover new favorites together.
I would use the money towards paying off the remainder of the hospital bill from the birth of my daughter, who will turn one year old tomorrow (I can’t believe it)! Then I would probably use some towards visiting family or flying family in to visit us, we recently moved to Minneapolis for a job relocation. Would also use some towards outfits for my adorable baby girl! My favorite charity is NAMI (National Association for Mental Illness). I work in the mental health field as a Nurse Practitioner, and it hits close to home as my husband and I both have family members who suffer from severe Mental Illness.
I would love to spend the money on maternity clothes! I can’t even begin to contain my excitement at being pregnant. My husband and I moved back to my hometown about a year and a half ago with the hopes of starting a family, but have had some setbacks along the way. In the past year, I’ve had two miscarriages, one at twelve weeks and one at eight. But I’m sending out a wish and a prayer that the third time’s the charm for us. I’m psyched to meet our little one in April, and even more so since we heard a heartbeat at our last sonogram! That was a first for us in any of my pregnancies. I’d love to indulge in some cozy maternity-wear to get me through the winter waiting period!
I was just offered my very first full time job! I graduated college in May and have spent the past few months freelancing in the news industry. I am super siked that I finally got offered a full time position! I would use the money to buy myself new fabulous clothes that’ll make me the trendy girl in the office. And of course I would treat my mom to a mani& pedi together.
Charity of choice would be to donate to Puerto Rico!
I would use part of the money to buy some clothes that fit well post-baby. Also in need of a good haircut and a body massage. A warm shower now is like heaven when I have that bit of time to myself. Lol!!!
Charity of choice would be to help people in Las Vegas. Thx!
Hi!!! I’m a junior in college and today I was accepted to study abroad in Copenhagen next semester. This is something that I have always dreamed of doing and I honestly can’t believe I achieved this goal. I’ve never been to Europe before and I’m so excited to pursue my major in literature in such a rich cultural atmosphere. I’ve grown up in small towns all my life so the experience of studying abroad in Copenhagen would be life changing. If I were to win I would use the money to help with travel fees. Wether it’s buying luggage or supplementing air fair, I just want to be able to help my dad. He’s so willing to pay for this opportunity but I know it’s a lot and I’d love to help!!!
I would do a closet clean out of all of my work clothes and upgrade to more classic, modern staples (with maybe a new paid of leapord flats). I’d take my old work clothes and donate them to Dress for Success who’s mission is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.
I’ve just finished up graduate school and I’m moving to NYC tomorrow! If I were to win, I would use the money toward some colorful Manhattan threads. I’m excited to put my best foot forward — maybe with a new pair of shoes!
I’d use the $$ for a weekend getaway with my aunties at canon beach, OR. It would be a thank you to them for always being there for me since my mom died.
I would use the money to buy some thing’s that actually make me feel like “myself” while I’m pregnant, then I would start baby girls wardrobe! And after all that take my men (husband and 1 year old) on a date to make more memories with the 3 of us before it’s 4!
I would buy chunky knit sweaters, boots and plaid! Clothes to feel confident with postpartum body!
Thankyou for your generosity ! I’m so grateful !i take care of my mother with dementia who is 90! I would probably use the winnings for medicine , new towels and sheets to make my mother more comfortable! Maybe I would get her her favorite chicken salad and get her hair done and a mani/pedi! Lolo has always been a beautiful lady! I want to honor her! ❤️❤️❤️
Thanks for hosting such a generous giveaway! I’d use the money for some much needed post partum size up fall items, like burgundy pants, plaid flannel button downs, and some oversized cozy cardigans!
What a wonderful giveaway! In a time that so many people are suffering, I would surely donate some to relief efforts. But as a new mama, I’d selfishly have to buy some needed things for baby April. Also, this Mom has to return back to work in 4 weeks, and I have no decent work attire that fits me at the moment. I’ve mentally already spent the $1000. Thank you for the opportunity Julia ❤️
Great giveaway! I would put the money towards household items. (trying to buy a house in the near future). I would also use it for holiday gifts!
I would spend it on some new clothes and accessories for my honeymoon in mid-Nov!
Love this. I’d put the money towards gear for my baby due in February!
I would split the money with my mom and go shopping. She works so hard to pay for my tuition that I would love to be able to give her something back!
Love this so much !!! My grandpa just died, so I would use the money to go on a weekend girls trip with my mom. She deserves the getaway after losing her dad ❤️
What a thoughtful idea (especially after the recent events our country has been experiencing).. Favorite charity for me would be Autism Speaks as I have a 6 year old on the spectrum. They have this great 90 day kit that pretty much saved my life when we first got the diagnosis so whenever I can give back, that’s the go-to! As far as what I’d spend the money on, it would probably be a weighted blanket for my boy. He has sensory issues and we haven’t gotten one for him yet because they are a bit expensive. I would probaby put any left over money toward a weekend in Maine or New Hampshire with the family. Autumn is my favorite time of year and my son loves to play outside in the beautiful piles leaves.
I just became an RN, so I’d probably spend some of the money on some new scrubs for my new job! I’d also donate some of the money to the American Cancer Society, which I’m a huge supporter of every year because its a cause that is near and dear to my heart!
I love the fact that you took this opportunity to give back as well. I love any cause that is able to do that. We are so fortunate and giving back should be a regular thing.
Now, what I would spend it on?! Oh my. My sister is a senior in high school and applying for colleges has her stressed out to the max. I would give her half to put away for books. The other half I would definitely buy some fall clothes for myself because it’s my fav season and this mama deserves a treat as well.
Charity of my choice is American diabetes association. My dad has it, my grandma died from it and so many kids suffer because of it. We need to find a cure.
Wonderful giveaway! Your donation is a lovely and kind gesture. I would primarily use the gift card to purchase some new clothes for my Hubby. His old ones are ill-fitting since he became sick. If there was any left I would purchase some much needed supplies for a noble horse rescue where my friend volunteers and send another dear friend some flowers for always being so supportive and sweet. My donation of choice would be the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Newport News, VA.
Awesome giveaway! I would use the $ towards airfare next year for my toddler son and I to visit my husband while he’s deployed to Washington DC doing air defense work with the Army National Guard.
My charity of choice is upstatewarriorsolution.com, which is a local charity that helps connect veterans with the resources they need.
Thanks so much!
What a lovely treat you all are offering your followers!
I would love to have a [insert Aziz Ansari’s voice right now] ‘Treat Yo’Self 2017’ day. I’m in desperate need of some new loafers for fall! Ooo, and some Tata Harper goodies! And let’s be real, probably some Target threshold items for the new apartment.
The charity I choose is: https://www.csgv.org — enough is enough. In fact, if my answer is chosen, I’ll match your kindness, dollar for dollar!
You guys are amazing! Thank you!
This is such a generous giveaway, thank you so much for making it possible! If I were to win, I’d use the $1000 to fly to see my Aunt in Houston, and spend a week volunteering alongside her at the Humane Society. So many homeless pets in Houston are lonely and scared right now, it would be such a privilege for me to be able to spend a week spreading love and joy for them!
Aww…so awesome! I would say I’d do something nice for myself or someone else, but in reality, I’ll probably spend all the money on my baby due in 3 months. In full nesting mode over here.
My dream is to travel to Thailand for mission work, I’m planning on going for a month this summer and serving on a team that helps woman who have been saved from sex trafficking. It’s about $6000 for the trip. I’m currently in college, soooo I’m broke. Raising this much money is a judge challenge and an extra $1000 would help immensely.
If I won I’d have you donate the money to Polaris Project, an organization that is actively fighting against human trafficking and providing support for the victims. Or I would have you donate to Voices for Puerto Rico.
You are the best, Julia! Thank you for sharing the love. If I won, I would divide the money up so there’s a little for my mama, a little for my sister, and a little for me. My mom and sister (teacher and social worker, respectively) work their butts off in careers that pay pretty poorly. My budget is also tight, as are a lot of my clothes on my new and very different post-partum body. I would love for us all to shop together for some much-needed wardrobe updates! My charity of choice would be Project HOPE for our brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico.
We are expecting our first baby at the end of the month so I would save a good chunk of the money and then use a bit to have a nice, luxurious date with my husband before this babe arrives! Thank you for being such a kind, generous individual and a true joy to follow!
Restocking my closet – I haven’t gone shopping in a loooong time and desperately need some new things.
The first thing that comes to mind is Thanksgiving. I am due with our first baby (a girl!) on Thanksgiving day and both sets of parents and siblings are coming into town in hopes baby will be here by then. Since its our first baby, I think there’s a good chance I’ll stay pregnant through the weekend so I would use this money to treat us all to a big fancy thanksgiving buffet at a resort. It would perfect! No stress or cooking for me, everyone gets out of our house (nesting/cleaning mode/struggle is real) and we can just enjoy the food and our time together. Here’s hoping!
I would spend the money on a weekend getaway before our first baby arrives in January.
I would have a spa day, buy a few fall items and donate to the Red Cross! I have a newborn too so I’d probably buy her a few outfits especially since I’ve been holding back on spending money while on maternity leave.
I’d spend it on Christmas presents for my family!
I would use a chunk to take a few favorite girlfriends out to dinner, my treat. I’ve had a really rough year and their support has made a world of difference in helping me stay sane when surrounded by chaos. I’d love to spoil them, and show I love them back, by taking them someplace fabulous that we would never normally go.
Most of the rest I would use to hire handymen and gardeners to clear my husband’s “honey-do” list and then get him the NFL All Access package so he would have time to enjoy all the games on Sunday and the means to watch them.
And the last $50? I would buy myself one hardcover book and a LUSH bath bomb. I always get my books from the library (I watch every dollar so we can afford to send my eldest of three girls to a special school) so I never buy myself books or read them in the bathtub, even though that is one of my favorite things. It wouldn’t take much to make this tired mama blissful!
(My charity would be my daughter’s school where I volunteer. Thank you for making a generous donation to charity for whomever wins!)
Gosh– $1k to spend however I like?!? That will take some dreaming… which is the best part, don’t you think? 🙂
I’m rooting for Home Fur Keeps! They rescue injured, senior & overlooked dogs (who have little other hope of help) from shelters, get them healthy, and get them into loving homes.
Thanks for the fun giveaway!!!
@escapetoabeach instagram.
It’s so awesome that you’ll donate to the charity of the comment winner’s choice!
If I were to win, I would try and donate a reasonable amount to those affected by all of the natural disasters that have been happening as of late…
Aside from that, I would love the save the money to buy presents for the holiday season! I have always had to be quite frugal in terms of buying gifts…and it would be great to not have to hold back this season! I had two jobs last year to try and make extra and it was still tough, so I think it would be really cool to have that extra $$ to spend on the people in my life that have always supported me in my endeavors and have helped become the person that I am 😀
First of all, thank you for the chance to win! As a female entrepreneur, it’s always great to see other women collaborating to achieve success. I’ve been spending a lot more of my time this year focusing on ways to give back to my community (mentoring young female business owners, starting what I hope will turn into a not-for-profit to fight blight in my city, supporting local charities, volunteering to facilitate a conversation circle for newcomers who don’t speak English very well, donating raffle prizes to a few local benefits for members of my community who are struggling, volunteering/donating to give homeless people in my community a warm meal and some much needed presents this Christmas etc). Even though I have a wedding coming up in 2 years and sometimes things aren’t the easiest, I truly have all I need and have recently discovered that giving back to people around me, even if its just my time or skills, is such a rewarding experience. That $1000 could make a HUGE difference for others around me that could really use a helping hand.
-Katie Stokes
kstokes88@yahoo.ca
I am a 30 year old young professional. I recently lost 23 lbs and cleaned out my closet! I was always thin and the quick weight gain really hit me hard. I struggled with letting go of “comfort” items in my closet and refused to admit to myself that those items just didn’t look good on me anymore. (Not to mention – they were dated and made me look frumpy) I put the pedal to the metal, lost the weight, competed in my first fitness competition and regained a positive outlook on life and a brand new appreciation for clothes that fit my current body and not my “hopeful’ body. I appreciate a well structured article of clothing and realize just how much of an impact it has overall performance, outlook in the work place, and in life. It is important to dress for the job you want, not the job you have. The outfits that once fit the old body do not fit the new body, although the same weight from before the weight gain- lets face it – things shift around 🙂 and I decided to donate my old suits and outfits to Dress for success, a not- for profit organization that provides a support network, professional attire and development tools to help women thrive in the work place. So with the $1,000 I would replace my old work cloths with new ones that empower me, along with purchasing some pieces to donate to the organization. I want other women to feel good in their own skin and have the clothes they wear reflect the best version of themselves.
If I happen to win it will go towards our trip home to go see my father who isn’t doing well health wise with a chronic illness. As for the charity to donate to, I would choose the victims of the shooting in Vegas.
I would live to take my 3 boys to South Carolina to visit my parents. They’ve been house bound, both been ill, and haven’t seen the boys in a few years. Thanks for the great offer. If chosen would like to donate the 200$ to the Las Vegas go fund me page which is to help the victims with expenses, surgeries and familiy expenses❤️❤️❤️
With all of the devastation happening, I think it’s so wonderful of you to contribute to a charity in addition to making someone else’s day with this giveaway! I would donate some of the money to victims of the Vegas tragedy.
If I were to win, I would use the money to “adopt a family” for Christmas. So much of the holiday cheer for me is seeing others happy. I want my two young daughters to experience giving to those in need around the holidays as a source of fulfillment, as opposed to opening tons of boxes for themselves 🙂 I did this with my family as a child and I can’t think of a better way to instill compassion, generosity, and gratitude for what they have in their lives. Thanks and enjoy your trip! 🙂
Julia, Welcome back to Bermuda! I started following you after seeing your last post while visiting the island and have been following you weekly ever since. You will love being here with your daughter!!!
First of all, I would donate $200 to the Make A Wish Foundation to help kids during the holidays and the reason is that I wish that all kids could be as fortunate as my own. This year we are visiting their grandparents for 2 weeks in Canada and we are counting the days and the Christmas singing has already started during our morning and evening commute. This brings me to – how I would spend $1000. I would love to do a little shopping in Canada over the holidays. I spend the entire year on a tight budget and it pretty much all goes to my kids. I am starting a new job in January and I would love to sparkle and shine in the New Year!
Hope your trip is a great one! As for the $200 donation, it would be really nice if it could be sent to any organization working with the victims of the shooting in Vegas. As for the $1000, if I win, I’d use it to defray the costs of bringing my college freshman home for the holiday break (we’re on the East coast, he’s in school on the West Coast).
So sweet of y’all to think of us! I would start some deferred house remodeling, could begin in the bathroom. The Victim Service Center of Central Florida where I volunteer could put the $200 to good use toward ongoing services to Pulse victims and others we serve in our community. Thank you!
Wow, this is more than generous! If I won, I would donate 250 to a women’s shelter in San Francisco as I just moved here! Next, I would spend 250 on a housewarming party for my roommates and new friends as we just moved this week and are trying to connect with people and make friends. Next, I would give 250 to my parents to go treat themselves to a nice dinner because they have been saints in this moving process and I would not be able to do anything without their support and knowing that they are happy makes me happy. Last, I would spend 250 on a cozy new sweater for Fall as that would be the cherry on top and make me so happy. My email I entered for the giveaway is mverspieren@comcast.net. Have the most AMAZING time in Bermuda with your family!
How fun! It would definitely go to completing our nursery and all things baby for our baby girl due this December. After that, probably some chunky sweaters or ponchos to help with breastfeeding and trying to feel stylish at the same time! Anything left over, would go towards the “baby fund” and an ice cream date night for me and the hubs. XOXO
My charity of choice would be to a local charity raising awareness for young women diagnosed with breast cancer.
This is so generous and thoughtful of you in these heartbreaking times. If I won I would spend the money on my husband. He works so hard for our new family and has a three and a half hour commute, so that I can stay at home with our 9 month old. He leaves before she is awake and gets home after her bedtime, so he doesn’t see her at all during the week He misses her so much and so I would use the money for him to take a week off of work and either go somewhere or just have a staycation at home. His choice! Just so we could spend more time as a family and get/do what ever he wants 🙂 It feels so important to me right now to spend as much time with our loved ones as possible.
I would donate the $200 to Every Mother Counts, which since becoming a mother, has become a cause very close to my heart.
Thank you for your openness and bringing us along on this journey with you. Have a great trip! Best <3 Jessica
Thank you for offering this fall giveaway ~ what a fun way to kick off the fall season!
I like to think of gift giving for family and friends in threes; give something they want, something they need and to a charity or to someone else in need.
If I won the $1000, I would allot and spend it in the same way. Something I want, but have never splurged on, is a beauty advent calendar. My first choices are this year’s Jo Malone or the Charlotte Tilbury calendars…so much prettiness in a box (or 25 boxes)! Due to a fire in my home last month, I have needed to undergo a handful of renovations, some earlier than expected. So for something I need, I would use a portion of the dollars to offset some of the cost of the renovations. In terms of giving, I would give it to two different places. First, I would give to my local fire department as I am grateful, now more than ever, for their service and sacrifice. Second, I would give to The Little Bit Foundation, an organization based in my hometown of St. Louis, that supports gives, serves and advocates for impoverished children
in St. Louis.
Thanks for doing this and I hope you have a lovely time in Bermuda!
Hi Julia- I would put all $1,000 towards my student loans. Fiscal responsibility makes me feel empowered and happy!
My charity of choice is St. Jude Children’s Hopsital. I’m a tri delt through and through!
This is such a generous giveaway-and you are going above and beyond!
I’d love to have an excuse to go shopping for some new fall clothes-I’ve been trying hard not to the last few months, and this would be the perfect time! I also would use some of it toward birthday celebrations for both my parents in the upcoming months, especially as my dad is turning 60!
I’d love to see a donation to the American Cancer Society-I’ve volunteered with them for over 10 years now, and they do such amazing work.
Happy fall! 🙂
Scrape the popcorn ceiling in my kitchen. Not fall clothing related but would definitely make me happy haha!
PS If mine is the favorite comment my charity of choice is Angels Among Us Pet Rescue and I’ll match your $200 donation 🙂
what an awesome way to welcome fall!! thanks for the chance!