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Graceful Glance with Tamika Graves

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Hey y’all!! Here we go a new year, with some fun new Graceful Glance Interviews!!! I am so excited about this one. I have known this girl for I don’t how long now. Haha Her husband is 7x NFR Qualifier Travis Graves. Who actually went on my parent’s very first traveling team roping missionary team! To cool huh?! They have 2 adorable kiddos Tee and True Graves. Who are absolutely precious might I add! I truly admire this beautiful lady so much, not only is she an amazing rodeo wife and mom but an avid fitness buff! She also has a heart of gold that I really admire. So for this interview and starting the new year I thought we all could draw some extra inspiration from this beautiful lady! So without further ado let me introduce you to Tamika Graves!

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(Tamika and Travis Graves) 

 H: What inspired you to live a healthy life style?

T: I have always loved to run. I’m not sure why! Haha Just kidding! It’s an addictive therapy for me. I feel so good while doing it and love getting better and faster at it. I love doing circuit workouts, lifting weights and Zumba, as well. I am cold natured so Hot Yoga works really well for me in the colder months. I’m kinda obsessed with it! I guess my overall inspiration comes from the amazing feeling of accomplishment after I finish a workout I never thought I would be able to complete 🙂

(That is so awesome! I totally loving running too! Although in high school I truly despised it, but now as an adult I really love the free-ness it brings!)

IMG_4493(Tamika getting her running game on!/ Get it girl!)

H: When working out how do you keep yourself motivated? 

T: Some days are harder than others. I honestly just love to run and workout so it’s never too much of a burden for me.

H: Being on the road a lot is it hard to workout and stay fit?

T: No, it’s not any harder and I usually welcome the change of scenery. Most rodeo grounds have a great set of stairs to run and I always love to load the kids in the double stroller and go for a jog and see some different scenery. I have a yoga mat and some weights in the trailer also.

(That is seriously so awesome! I love the dedication you have it is seriously so inspiring! See ladies we have to just make up our minds and get to it. ) 

(Tamika working out! See girls stick with it and you can accomplish anything especially this move!)

H: Do you have any tips for traveling and eating healthy?

T: I always have snack bags of fruits and veggies in my fridge. They are cleaned and bagged ready to grab. This helps me when we are driving to resist the urge to snack on junk.

(This is awesome! I think if we all took a day to do some food prep like this we would see how much it helps against the temptations! Awesome advice Tamika girl!)

H:  Does Tee and True like to try and workout with you?

T: They get all excited when I lay down on the yoga mat to do sit ups or planks.. They love to lay on me and help make things a little harder. Haha! They love to go on runs with me in their stroller. I pack them snacks and if we see a park I always stop and let them play for awhile. They love it.

H: Who is your fitspiration?

T: Rachel Woodard. She is absolutely flawless in every way. I adore her.

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(Rachel and Tamika at the back number presentation at the NFR in Las Vegas) 

H:  What is your favorite way to workout?

T: I love classes but I also don’t mind to go at it solo. I watch a lot of videos on Pinterest to get ideas for new workouts.

(Pinterest has soooo many ideas I think my fitness folder is overflowing with ideas!)

H: What is your favorite healthy snack? 

T: My favorite snack would have to be one of my pre bagged snacks.. I mix red and green grapes and add blueberries. So fresh and yummy.

H: What is some advice you could give our readers to inspire them to stay or to start the work out journey? 

T: My advice would be to have a flexible schedule when it comes to working out. Sometimes a morning workout gets pushed to a 10pm workout, and that’s okay. You just have to make a plan to workout a certain amount of times per week and commit to it. Whatever it takes to get it done, Just Do It 🙂

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H: What is your favorite scripture?

T: Phillipians 4:13 ” I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”

(Super fitting for everything we have talked about in this interview!)

Tamika I can not thank you enough for taking the time with us and sharing your fitness journey an tips! I know I am re inspired to get back at it with some good tips to keep me going. Don’t forget readers just like Tamika’s favorite scripture says “I (YOU) can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me (YOU!)”. You have got this whatever your journey is fitness, dreams or maybe your struggling. Stay strong and don’t give up! Keep God in all you do! He cares so much about you and the things you set your hands too! Remember what Coco Chanel told us…”Everyday is a fashion show and the world is the runway!” So conquer it with some Grace & Style Girl!! Work it!
XO,
Hannah Leigh

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(Tamika and Travis Graves with the beautiful children Tee and True!) 
Thanks again girl!

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Countdown To Vegas With Haley Corkill

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I am so excited to do a countdown to Vegas and the NFR this year, with some fun short blog posts with amazing friends! I have asked 6 of my friends who are no strangers to the Vegas scene to help us! All of these ladies are continually styling, smiling and loving God! Each day I will feature a new woman leading up to Round 1! I asked each of these ladies 3 quick questions, because I know they all have a lot to do in preparation for their travels to Vegas! So without further ado lets get this thing started!!!

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Up first is the amazing Haley Corkill! She is the wife of 3x World Champion Heeler, Jade Corkill and the mother of 2 cute little boys; Colby and Kelton Corkill! But Haley is not just an amazing wife and mom she is a great friend with a big heart! Haley and I have been friends now for a couple of years! I have always just loved being around her and I truly just love her heart. I personally think is made of gold! I admire Haley’s style so much, she looks fabulous on all occasions, whether it be formal or casual, she has a subtle confidence about her! Which makes her even more fabulous! Confidence in my books is key to any outfit you put on! It is knowing who you are and feeling great about yourself. (Tip: Fake it till you make it ladies! 😉 People are attracted to confidence! It is an accessory that you must not leave home without! Haley always has this about her to me! So without further ado it is my pleasure and honor to introduce you to one of my dear friends Haley Corkill!!!

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Haley and Jade Corkill looking fabulous on a night out in Dallas

Note From Haley:
Have you ever met someone whose love for people and God was so contagious you couldn’t help but be completely uplifted? For those of you who know Hannah, there is no doubt in my mind you will agree that she is just, exactly that person! I am so thankful to call her a friend and I wanted to start my post off by expressing how much I appreciate her asking me to write a little something and to thank her for continuously inspiring my heart and my closet!

(Thank you Haley so much that means the world to me! xo)

Question #1 What are 3 things that are a must in your purse for Vegas? 
H: Three things that are always in my purse:
(No specific order)
1- lipstick or Chapstick
2-safety pins (for several reasons)
3-a compact foundation

Question #2: What is one of your favorite places to eat while in Vegas? 
H: I don’t think I can pick just one favorite place to eat at in Vegas, so many choices!

(Girl I agree! There are so many great choices 🙂 

Question #3: What is your favorite scripture? 
H: My favorite scripture is Jeremiah 29:11. For I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you not harm you. Plans for hope and a future. ❤️

(That is one of my favorites as well! Always reminding us to have peace and faith in Him because He does have amazing plans for us and our lives!) 

Haley thank you so much for kicking off Living In Grace & Style’s first countdown to Vegas! We all appreciate you taking time out of your busy day getting ready for Vegas to share a little of your amazing self with us!! I hope everyone enjoyed our first day of counting down! T-Minus 6 days!!! Eeeek!!!

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(Jade, Haley and their cute boys Colby and Kelton!)

Let’s all stand in agreement and speak many blessings over Haley, Jade and the boys while they are preparing for Vegas and while they are in Vegas! Lord we thank you right now that you just shower them with your peace, love, joy and safety over the next few weeks! As well as having a very prosperous 10 rounds at the NFR this year!!! In Jesus Name we all agree and say AMEN!

**Don’t forget to tune in tomorrow & see who will be joining the countdown! **

xo,
Hannah Leigh

Graceful Glance with Tasha Long

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Today I want to introduce y’all to an amazing lady I have come to know and love! She is an amazing mom of 2, wife and friend! She has a heart of gold and if you have had the pleasure of ever meeting her you already know what I am talking about!!! To those of you that haven’t well you are fixing to know! So without further ado here she is the fabulous Miss Tasha Long!

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(Family Photo: Haizlee, Jake, Tasha and Haven)

So as we start this weeks interview off with Tasha I want to give those of you that don’t know her a little more insight on who she is! She is the wife of 5x NFR team roping qualifier Jake Long, mother of 2 beautiful girls (who by the way I simply adore like non other!). They are from Kansas but winter down here in Texas just up the road from me! I am also so blessed to get to take their family pictures every June! Haha! I love when Tasha and I get together it seems like we could talk for days on end we talk about our faith, fashion, her kiddos and just so much more! We have this un canny way of running into each in Starbucks, I think it is starting to become some kind of habit! But let us dig in to Tasha’s interview and tips on how she gets ready for Las Vegas and the NFR!!!

Tasha2(Rare moment of the whole family hanging out at a rodeo! Rare for those of you that don’t know because Jake is normally in the rodeo!)

H: So Tasha as you start to prepare yourself, Jake and the girls for the NFR what is your first priority to pack?
T: Well to be honest, it’s my thieves cleaner! (Which basically disinfectant made by essential oils) I make sure we have enough to clean our entire hotel room and for spills along the way! Then all our needed clothes and accessories!

H: So when packing do you prepare your outfits for Vegas? Or do you just take everything and piece it together out there?
T: Well, I plan ahead so much it hurts! I try to have every outfit planned out down to the shoes and jewelry! It seems rough during packing time, but I feel like it helps me enjoy the process of getting ready each night with ease! Especially when getting my two sweet girls ready to head out!

That makes perfect sense to less stress! I am a taker of all things haha as much as I want to plan my outfits well it just doesn’t seem to work out like I want! But I so commend you for getting super organized and plus I loved helping you pick outfits out too! But back to the interview!

IMG_0524(Tasha and I last year at the NFR)

H: Do y’all do something  while you are in Vegas with your sweet girls, like any traditions?
T: Well we usually get there as early as we can so we have a family day before all the craziness begins! We usually play a few games at the hotel, visit the park, catch a movie and eat where they chose!

Oh my goodness how fun is that! I love that y’all do that! One of the things I always admire about you and Jake is how you guys take time for family! I know that that is super important to you guys as well!

Tasha5 (1)(Another sweet family photo)

H: I know Vegas is a little bit of a haul, how do you prepare for a long trip with 2 kids? Do y’all split it up into 2 days or just load up and try and get there?
T:  To be honest, I have the best two travelers so preparing is easy! They have traveled so much and know the routine! We pack books, games, movies and iPads! Both girls have their favorites and we play travel bingo too! We usually drive it in two days with the first day being the longest. We like to have a shorter drive on the second day to get there and unload! Usually pj’s are how they travel on day one since we start early and end late!
IMG_0534(Haven and Haiz all loaded up and ready to hit the road)

Tasha6(Haizlee won’t forget her favorite book either!)

H: Since we are on the topic of traveling, do you have any tips or advice for long trip and kids for new traveling moms?
T: I feel very blessed that both my girls are good travelers! It does make it easier on a mom when your little ones are happy in the car seat! Starting out is tougher cause kids don’t want to stay buckled the whole trip! We would just praise them for doing so well and take a few rest stops to let them move around! As they get older, you can reward them with new books or games!

That is such a great idea! I hope some of you mom’s loved that advice like I did! By the way be sure and check the link at the end of this interview and I will send you a link to my favorite place to order some AMAZING kid books!!! I have started a collection for both of my baby nephews!

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(The girls and their sweet dog Chloe)

H: I know the days during the NFR can be a little hetic for y’all but could you take us through a typical day for you in Vegas?
T: A typical day for us can be running crazy or nice and quiet! It just depends on what we have planned that day! Breakfast is always in our room…so everyone can sleep as much as possible! We usually try and go with Jake at least one day to sign autographs so we can shop a little! Other days we are visiting with family or sight-seeing somewhere if we have time that day! Sometimes we go to the park or take a tram around! Once back to the room, we rest if time allows!! I like to grab a coffee as we head inside to prepare myself to dress three girls! We try to have everyone walk-out ready in time for a quick family picture! Then we head to the rodeo! Jake gets his horse ready and I help if needed! We then enjoy hanging out at The Bistro with Ted and Linda Wiese!

See y’all crazy crazy, it is like that for 10 straight days! Plus for those of you who do not know Ted and Linda Wiese they are so amazing. They cook and support the contestants and their families while at big rodeo events. While offering bible studies and prayer and just so much more! That’s is the short version they are truly amazing people with such a passion and heart for the contestants and their families!

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(Tasha hanging with her favorites!) 

Now for some fun fashion stuff which is one of my favorite topics of course!!

H: How would you describe your personal style?
T: My style would be semi-dressy with a comfy vibe! I wear pieces that are cute, but still kid friendly!  You never know when some little girl needs carried cause the walk is just too far!

H: Do you have a go-to day outfit that you normally end up wearing in Vegas?
T: My go-to day outfit would be a pair of skinny jeans paired with a cute top and short boots! I actually have day outfits planned also so I can grab and go enjoy the day!

See y’all she is so on top of things I love it! She should get a gold buckle for preparedness! Lol

12108243_1676986715906351_4958412294077737813_n(Tasha and I on Pink Night at the NFR last year!)

H: So what is a must in your purse for Vegas?
T: I usually pack everything, but try to lighten the load for this event! My purse will definitely have baby wipes…they are a must! We eat before the rodeo and seem to find some dirt along the way! I will keep it simple with baby wipes, lip gloss, phone, camera, and rodeo tickets!

H: What is your power scripture you use?
T: One of my favs is Joshua 1:9. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid nor dismayed, for the Lord you God is with you wherever you go.  It is so calming when I say it to myself…no matter what is going on…God is always with us!  I also enjoy Phil 4:13. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. It keeps me strong when I am feeling overwhelmed!

I simply love both of those scriptures Tash! They help me on a daily basis as well! Ok just a few more questions you have been so awesome but I just want to give readers just a little last glance into your life! Haha!

H: What is something that our readers may not know about you?
T: Well I am actually a school teach and school counselor!

What?! Wow I don’t think I even knew that haha! Surprise! That is so awesome coming from a family whose has a bunch of teachers I totally commend you!

H: Ok last but not least since we are both coffee lovers? You might have me beat though haha! But what is your favorite coffee to order?
T: This may be the hardest question to answer. I really like coffee! I will drink it anyway or at least try new things! Some days I enjoy sipping on an iced Americano with milk or indulge in a hot misto with toffee! Not too much sweet cause I’m sweet enough…lol!

Haha Tash that is awesome!!! See ladies and gentlemen she is awesome with a great sense of humor! Tasha thank you thank you thank you for taking the time away from getting ready for the NFR to interview with me and let us in on just a glance of your life! You are truly such an amazing woman and I am extremely grateful God has brought us together as friends!!! We speak blessings over you, Jake and the girls as you prepare to leave! I hope y’all enjoyed taking a Graceful Glance into Tasha’s life! So as Haven is showing us work the runway of life like nobody’s business! Let God be #1 in your life and know that you can do ALL things through Him who strengthens you!! Work it girls!
xo,
Hannah Leigh

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(Haven showing us how to work it!)

BOOKS!
Check out Usborne Books Chelsy Lyes is a dear friend of mine and an amazing Consultant so here is her website and Facebook page. These would make great birthday gifts, baby shower gifts, rewards, home school reading books well the skies the limit check them out!!!
Facebook Page: Chelsy Usborne FB Page
Website: Chelsy Usborne Website

Graceful Glance with Arena de la Cruz

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This week’s Graceful Glance is featuring an amazing woman friend and mother. I am so excited to feature one of my dearest friends to ya’ll this week. We met through her sister many years ago and then just hit it off from there and were instant best friends and PICs!! (Partners in Crime!) haha! Not really in crime but we have been known to have some really good laughs! Anyway I am so pleased and honored to introduce you to my bestie…

10340175_523907324387986_2068312870412383550_n(My beautiful Bestie)

Arena is just as beautiful on the outside as she is on the inside. She is a mother of 3, an amazing wife, cook, fashionista, roper and all around friend! I love her big heart for family and faith and friends. This week’s interview I wanted to dive into getting to know her and life on the road as a pro athlete’s wife and mother and offer y’all a couple tips and a little insight to life on the road. So without further a do here is this weeks Graceful Glance into the life of Arena de la Cruz.

H: Being a professional athlete’s wife and on the road constantly what are some key essentials you need for all of your travels. (Make-Up/Fashion)

A: For make-up I always wear sunscreen so that is a must for me! I am into green and gold eye shadows, Bad Gal mascara, lip tints and also lip stick. So those are always packed in my trailer. Now for fashion I always have my sunglasses with me! Then I am sure to have my boots, booties, skinny jeans, sweaters, leggings, hats and layering tanks. With the way we travel you never know what kind of weather you will encounter. Really I just take everything that I can. Haha!

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(Arena and Emy Davis hanging out a morning slack looking fabulous)

H: What is life like on the rodeo trail with 3 kids?

A:  It all is a little crazy to be honest it makes everything a little more interesting and there is never a dull moment. Going to watch Cesar is one of the hardest parts if it is a perf. I sometimes feel that my kids and I are more entertaining then the rodeo. Lol! I like to take the boys to go do things other than just going to the rodeos. Some of their favorite things are going fishing, swimming, the movies and playing at the park! I try to help make things exciting for them. We like to have fun, they love animals so if we can we do just about anything animal related! I have definitely learned there are other things to do besides just rodeos. But it is very important to me to be at the rodeo to support Cesar on every run. So now matter how hard it is getting there and the kids ready I always make it.

IMG_6393(Camilo, Zorro & Gio hanging out)

FullSizeRender(Camilo & Gio having fun at the zoo)
IMG_3908(Shark Attack!!! Camilo and Gio caught a big shark! (Just Kidding))

H: Are there any traveling tips you can give other moms for long road trips?
A: Movies, books, iPads or old phones and lots of snacks are key for me! We also can play I spy for hours lol!

H: What is your favorite memory so far being on the road with your sweet family? 
A: Anything we do as a family is fun for me! I guess one of our favorites was all of us getting to spend time together in the North West! I didn’t think I would be able to go with Zorro since he was due August 27th but he came a little early so we all got to be together at the end of the rodeo season! I just want us all together as much as possible. The boys are growing up way to fast and I don’t want us to miss out on any of it!

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H: Being a mom of 3 how do you balance taking care of everyone and still have your God time? 
A: Well bedtime bible stories are a hit so that is always just a good reminder of His love. It is sometimes just those bedtime stories that I learn the most. But I try to get some God time in before bed every night.

H: What is most important for you to instill in to your kids?
A: God and respect are probably the most important things for me. I feel that they go hand in hand if you apply them. I want my kids to understand that they can be proud of their accomplishments and still be humble and thankful for the opportunities that they are given.

H: With the Holiday season just around the corner what are you most excited for? 
A: I just love the Holidays!! Christmas is my favorite and the kids are so excited! It is important for me that they know what Christmas is about. I tell them that Jesus is so cool that everyone gets to open presents on His birthday not just Jesus! It is the most amazing birthday party of all time!!

Ok just a few more questions! Haha!! Thank you so much for taking time out of your crazy busy life to let us take a look into what it is like to be you!!

H: What is one thing readers might not know about you? 
A: I am actually a shy person, but I am working on it and trying to be more open, fun and outgoing!

H: What is a power scripture you use to keep going?
 A: This scripture has so much meaning in it for me! “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right Hand.” 

Arena thank you so much for taking the time to let us take a look into your life tonight! I hope y’all enjoyed tonight’s interview as much as I did. Life on the rodeo road and trail with a family can be hard I know but in the end it is so rewarding as y’all can see! They get to see so many amazing sights and have fun adventures! Though they may face adversity at times they are still together and a family. That is one of my favorite things about rodeo anyway it is all about family! Not only the family you have but everyone out there is family. They help each other when needed and also I know have lots of fun times! So with a little Grace and Style I am signing off tonight’s blog with a big XO!!!
Love all of you fabulous readers! Just know that whatever is standing in front of you you can accomplish anything with Him! Keep the eye on the prize!!!
xo, Hannah Leigh

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(Arena and I at Cowboy Church in Vegas at the NFR last year)