tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7406361784998607262024-02-07T01:36:53.022-05:00She's Come UnheeledThe new(er) adventures of fashionista & bab(ies)Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.comBlogger350125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-44094239714171154612015-01-05T13:20:00.000-05:002015-01-05T13:25:55.409-05:00new year's resolutionsA new year means new resolutions. I always have the best of intentions when January comes around, but gosh, isn't it hard to be the amazing, Insta-version of yourself every single day? Sigh. In an attempt not to overcommit this new year, I'm hoping to start small by returning to my long forgotten but much loved blog. <a href="http://shescomeunheeled.blogspot.com/"><i>She's Come Unheeled</i></a> started as a fashion blog but has changed countless times since, as my life has changed. This year, I'm hoping my precious <i>Unheeled</i> can be less of a to-do list item and more of a guilty pleasure for me, a creative outlet, for body, mind, and spirit.<br />
<br />
So, to start the new year off right, I thought why not accomplish one of the Pin-spirations I've been meaning to get around to basically forever. I even bought the few supplies I needed...in September. So hello (!) to a new year, a newer me, and a new home for the amazing succulent plant that even a black thumb like me has kept alive--for like three years. May wonders never cease.<br />
<br />
I found this sweet idea on Pinterest, of course: <a href="http://youngaustinian.com/2014/04/22/how-to-plant-kitchen-succulents/">a how-to guide for planting kitchen succulents in the most adorable containers</a>, like tea cups, vintage tins, or any other Anthopologie-esque containers your aesthetic little heart desires. I actually already own a pair of the yellow floral teacups featured in this post so my first inclination was to use one. Then I thought, how will I have a proper English tea for two without my proper teacups? Because even though I don't have a lot of proper grown-up time to sip tea, it's important to dream. But I digress. <br />
<br />
My little succulent, as it turns out, is too big for a teacup anyway. I instead used one of my favorite mugs, a simple yet serene light blue ceramic one. The project took a total of five minutes to complete, yet already my kitchen aesthetic has improved--and perhaps only in a tiny way, but improvement is improvement, <i>n'est-ce pas? </i>I even added a few little seashells that we collected during our trip to the Outer Banks last summer.<br />
<br />
Cheers to a greener kitchen and a happier body, mind, spirit--and perhaps even to-do list--in this beautiful new year. xo<br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPr4b4j75hrGmioWHMJ_GiMIOlweMSVbNyAGwVfzUD1FJvKkLeqgomFDN0-aA7ODStgeDIny5txqONeE6thpKVFaWQiVu6Iyz_IlIURdVhWQQeCXw8oMZbBq7MenNiDs8BNlhyAB0/s640/blogger-image-27461301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPr4b4j75hrGmioWHMJ_GiMIOlweMSVbNyAGwVfzUD1FJvKkLeqgomFDN0-aA7ODStgeDIny5txqONeE6thpKVFaWQiVu6Iyz_IlIURdVhWQQeCXw8oMZbBq7MenNiDs8BNlhyAB0/s320/blogger-image-27461301.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-11355779714979374362014-05-21T14:55:00.003-04:002014-05-21T14:55:31.525-04:00phys ed<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My name is Laura, and I am a Lululemon addict. Really. Why are workout clothes the best thing ever? From the amount of Lulu in my closet, you would think I could actually get into crow pose. I can't. </span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But this month, I am dedicating myself to improving my physical fitness. Since my son was born in the fall, I have made a pretty poor showing of getting back in shape. You can only use the "But I have a new baby!" excuse for so long. Now that he's getting closer to 1 (and I'm getting closer to bathing suit season--shudder), the time to hesitate is through. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To give myself a much needed kick start, I signed up for a 5K at the end of the month with two of my friends. The weather in Boston is beyond beautiful right now, and so it seemed like the perfect time to get outside and run. Except that I wanted to die after my first run. I tracked my route using <a href="http://www.mapmyrun.com/">my new favorite online tool</a>: 1.77 miles. For real? I felt like I had been running for daaaays. The good news is that my runs have been getting progressively better ever since. This past weekend, I tracked my route: 3.38 miles. Don't laugh, for me that is pretty major. More importantly, I felt great when I was done. How's that for phys ed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It doesn't hurt that I have some pretty fabulous running shoes, which were a gift from my amazingly athletic mother-in-law (legit, she could run circles around me). Dressing the part is maybe my favorite part. Oh, and good health. Obviously. In fact, my sneakers are so cool that my sister copied me and got a pair. And now the world (okay fine, maybe just my 37 followers) knows the truth.</span><br />
<br />
</div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The bad news: I can see how people become obsessed with sneakers.</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4JxXs8DkVbARGx6bpm-ooeyGPXCTgXpP-xVREAuq-OE7hJuWKQRfzelG497LE89SD9WoH9lFvOaCq8mNbnjepLYJHPwukZx0pSKxXYbZNVIjAQCtu33KdQJ43CJgIUmDSSnR0DWUZ/s640/blogger-image-517782975.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4JxXs8DkVbARGx6bpm-ooeyGPXCTgXpP-xVREAuq-OE7hJuWKQRfzelG497LE89SD9WoH9lFvOaCq8mNbnjepLYJHPwukZx0pSKxXYbZNVIjAQCtu33KdQJ43CJgIUmDSSnR0DWUZ/s400/blogger-image-517782975.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Leopard print Nikes and fallen spring blossoms</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-11188273183678038802014-05-05T12:01:00.000-04:002014-05-05T12:01:48.860-04:00what i love about mondays<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What I love about Mondays? Okay, not much. But one of my personal goals at the moment is to feel more grateful, complain less, and generally be a more positive me. So with that sentiment in mind, here are a five things that are making me happy on my least favorite day of the week:</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>1. Boston Strong. </b>My limited edition Boston Strong bracelet arrived in the mail from Rue La La! </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As a born and bred Boston girl, pride in my home town runs deep my blood. Last year, after the tragic bombing at the Boston Marathon, Boston Strong took on new meaning for me--and the rest of this amazing city. I was beyond excited when <a href="http://www.ruelala.com/blog/2014/04/21/boston-strong-rue-alex-ani/">Rue La La (a Boston business, if you didn't know!) announced their partnership with Alex and Ani for this limited edition bracelet</a>. 100% of the net proceeds from sales of this bracelet support the One Fund Boston. Tough. Proud. Strong. Love love love.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8YbLOSFGmDlE_P0NaDc7IBXNJtn4x7e9Th0JfqmgMp2UBnMNBhkxC3sI7N5yHSvFG7Le62BoJAKao6wTg6usVGYogwXbBkASuF5n2XD7hlx0k4AQY8lHyc_t8GvsykvaV32yDBnfT/s640/blogger-image--196002381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8YbLOSFGmDlE_P0NaDc7IBXNJtn4x7e9Th0JfqmgMp2UBnMNBhkxC3sI7N5yHSvFG7Le62BoJAKao6wTg6usVGYogwXbBkASuF5n2XD7hlx0k4AQY8lHyc_t8GvsykvaV32yDBnfT/s320/blogger-image--196002381.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>2. Eat cookies for breakfast. </b>So what if another personal goal is to lose 5 pounds and tone my abs for beach season? <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/316166836312243680/">This chocolate oatmeal raisin cookie recipe from my girl Martha</a> was too tempting to resist. Harper and I baked yesterday afternoon, and we added a twist on the recipe by mixing butterscotch, milk chocolate, and dark chocolate chips into the batter instead of plain old semisweet. I mean, you gotta live a little, am I right? Which is why I also feel that it is okay to eat a cookie for breakfast. Or four.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjogmY6NnZzzbjzAqUcIzUW4oFXBLvcTlex1Fb4GQRrzYKFYKvzV8o-mDYQi4oLGWtzewoRkohwPuUWtIcXCbhaAGLyuocXLFLfN9wbjVypaLJBMAUCUSjqHzXfqh6v7oM56wCEjT2C/s640/blogger-image-1255866256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjogmY6NnZzzbjzAqUcIzUW4oFXBLvcTlex1Fb4GQRrzYKFYKvzV8o-mDYQi4oLGWtzewoRkohwPuUWtIcXCbhaAGLyuocXLFLfN9wbjVypaLJBMAUCUSjqHzXfqh6v7oM56wCEjT2C/s320/blogger-image-1255866256.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>3. Remember where you come from. </b> With Mother's Day approaching, my mother and the many women who inspire me have been on my mind. My grandmother, who will turn 93 later this month, is one of the most amazing women I have ever known. The things she has seen and done during her lifetime are enough to take your breath away. Her example helps me realize that I have a long way to go, and I hope I can make the journey with the same grace, poise, and tenacity that she has. She recently shared this photograph with me (she is the little girl in the center holding that precious little dog), and I fell in love with the snapshot of her life--and America--at a different time.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGQo7lyndNR4yThqrDyBl8YESx4w1YFj6RUUDErjIPteRs1WGsm82470RrX5NNqKYi7dmWhgZ3q2zHmshnK0QxRBcOGbiKl6un67dMpBZKRBFW9ieYIc__hC577jQZCtziGmwlIRmx/s1600/Scan.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGQo7lyndNR4yThqrDyBl8YESx4w1YFj6RUUDErjIPteRs1WGsm82470RrX5NNqKYi7dmWhgZ3q2zHmshnK0QxRBcOGbiKl6un67dMpBZKRBFW9ieYIc__hC577jQZCtziGmwlIRmx/s1600/Scan.jpeg" height="400" width="281" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>4. I dream of Louis. </b>Earlier this year, when I had just returned to work after having my sweet baby boy, I was having a difficult time juggling the demands of work and home--and also trying to avoid feeling like a hot mess. One of my coworkers challenged me to do something just for me--to settle on a goal I could work towards over time. For some, this could be something heroic like trying to change the world. But as a firm believer in and subscriber of retail therapy, this meant starting a bag fund. So now I stuff wads of cash under my mattress and dream of Louis Vuitton. Just kidding!!! But I am saving my money instead of falling prey to little purchases here and there, in hopes that I will be able to buy myself a fabulous new handbag by the end of the year. It is an exercising in saving, willpower, and--best of all--fashion. I'm visualizing a classy future like <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/316166836311481973/">this</a>:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyFv01N1UjTz-GygeO437G_wRS5-AmpUyXTTuy5PSAHEpzAB6eVddmi9-bMSorqXP2-8HrTct-l3RDK6FB7F-JYbkl6T4D7DbjzGhUTHrnkBHvmUvyM0R3jQ-Qs_mc5o-MwfPrU4UP/s1600/61ca14bc0bd36869da64b110df57fbed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyFv01N1UjTz-GygeO437G_wRS5-AmpUyXTTuy5PSAHEpzAB6eVddmi9-bMSorqXP2-8HrTct-l3RDK6FB7F-JYbkl6T4D7DbjzGhUTHrnkBHvmUvyM0R3jQ-Qs_mc5o-MwfPrU4UP/s1600/61ca14bc0bd36869da64b110df57fbed.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Of course, my reality will probably look more like </span><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/390476230164051612/" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">this</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyRUsxSMLH62UpEod445z2sw1a_erBVA1NybCjlc9Le8vHbclgq5yYXYPL2eS7BDzfJ45KIMewD-p0xz752kFOqXC0Z-lxsfJhGbHSq_qOcNTyYYQS6uoEYMZzbR4qEFj4HS0RRzHw/s1600/892de6ac1c2e632ccd3e50543b1611a2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyRUsxSMLH62UpEod445z2sw1a_erBVA1NybCjlc9Le8vHbclgq5yYXYPL2eS7BDzfJ45KIMewD-p0xz752kFOqXC0Z-lxsfJhGbHSq_qOcNTyYYQS6uoEYMZzbR4qEFj4HS0RRzHw/s1600/892de6ac1c2e632ccd3e50543b1611a2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But a fabulous bag makes everything look good, right? That's what I'm banking on. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Have a great week, friends!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-62714255790197900052014-04-25T14:57:00.003-04:002014-04-25T14:57:49.431-04:00watch me!<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi900eavX0E9MUDJPwe5Uz1JXW1z7m-Vq7JcEvcRkrFgW5wNRBLWN6o_2ogM4tCUab9fReioYXnbZs6FW4S_qZGXljxR9F8CCJ-3ntBTPQoSWR2PvqVnx6pZQRr7N_4o5n05CeawvAW/s1600/039_1024x1024.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi900eavX0E9MUDJPwe5Uz1JXW1z7m-Vq7JcEvcRkrFgW5wNRBLWN6o_2ogM4tCUab9fReioYXnbZs6FW4S_qZGXljxR9F8CCJ-3ntBTPQoSWR2PvqVnx6pZQRr7N_4o5n05CeawvAW/s1600/039_1024x1024.png" height="320" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://store.rockwellwatches.com/collections/mens-watches/products/cartel-rose-gold">Cartel in Rose Gold</a><br />
by Rockwell Watches</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Never say that guys can't teach you anything about fashion. I'm relatively new to the world of watches, but I have come to appreciate the watch as a valuable accessory, thanks to a few of my more fashion forward male colleagues. You see, men have far fewer options when it comes to accessorizing in the corporate environment. After all, one suit looks like the next--but ties, socks, and especially watches really set a guy apart. In fact, one of my best guy friends has a dozen statement watches, and by example has taught me that the right timepiece can totally complete a look. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As a woman, of course, I don't lack for options when it comes to accessories, but a watch is something different. As a piece of jewelry that serves fashion and function, it has become a valuable part of my arm candy and overall look too. Oh, and it tells time--added bonus.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My new favorite: <a href="http://store.rockwellwatches.com/collections/mens-watches/products/cartel-rose-gold">the Cartel by Rockwell Watches in rose gold</a>. Seriously, I'm obsessed. If you're not familiar with <a href="http://rockwellwatches.com/">Rockwell</a>, you should be. I personally love large face watches for their statement power, and Rockwell takes it to the next level. You should see some of the <a href="http://store.rockwellwatches.com/collections/big-watches">huge watches</a> they have for the guys in your life! But I digress... <a href="http://store.rockwellwatches.com/collections/mens-watches/products/cartel-rose-gold">The Cartel</a> is one of their <a href="http://store.rockwellwatches.com/collections/mens-watches">medium styles</a>, which is more than enough on a woman's arm. It is available in a number of styles, but I especially love the rose gold for its versatility. As a self-proclaimed fashionista, turned working mama, versatility is mandatory. If I am going to invest in an outfit or an accessory, my rule of thumb is that it needs to work in a range of settings; this watch does just that. Watch me:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrMJ8Qp1RFnUfY5Hl9Auy7g6xenVVoaETSmm3HO2j1a7t4dsAfDtWqAYgRmvEEZ9QUiEhSLmk9-l5AWH7Zsd9WknH5kcZ0GrVtmU3lmuI8QKGQoOO5Qpddq5gtWhjSaEQhkjqVwgez/s640/blogger-image--1815937195.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrMJ8Qp1RFnUfY5Hl9Auy7g6xenVVoaETSmm3HO2j1a7t4dsAfDtWqAYgRmvEEZ9QUiEhSLmk9-l5AWH7Zsd9WknH5kcZ0GrVtmU3lmuI8QKGQoOO5Qpddq5gtWhjSaEQhkjqVwgez/s320/blogger-image--1815937195.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFvTl7-tKyJ7-3zHzbWzrk6GXylBfIf_Phe9nvj6BzL_c-zIssM1kz92PE26FkyIwlGH1fKk3sibaOyW1ITli7sXXjqIpbpN6KOwEr3q1uEXvidLnfJrbvFqk8QfTmRcQ8ZWZ0r7jF/s640/blogger-image--495269453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFvTl7-tKyJ7-3zHzbWzrk6GXylBfIf_Phe9nvj6BzL_c-zIssM1kz92PE26FkyIwlGH1fKk3sibaOyW1ITli7sXXjqIpbpN6KOwEr3q1uEXvidLnfJrbvFqk8QfTmRcQ8ZWZ0r7jF/s200/blogger-image--495269453.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>1. Dressed down mama: </b>Marathon Monday was the most gorgeous day of the year so far here in Boston, and so I simply had to get the littles out of the house to enjoy the sun and fresh air. We decided on a picnic at the sculpture park with some friends, and our artsy field trip called for a boho chic outfit, of course. Clothes: orange denim, a chambray shirt, a hair scarf, and flip flops (hallelujah for nice weather!). Arm candy: <a href="http://store.rockwellwatches.com/collections/mens-watches/products/cartel-rose-gold">the Cartel</a>, lotus seed mala beads, and a DIY Burberry fabric wrap bracelet. I love mixing materials and textures, and so the combination of metal, wood, and fabric creates a softer, funky look that I love for casual days.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDDIQ_loRaFnLtZRSFWvEpJEd314vCi5KR2pOtSNa3BuKHnUKaFziQ_BWCDxA9AATGlj3Ma9af-qvs6Uxqez7F-CFoONDq1cGFH0RmKMlRaaXF3wmRpRA2J2WN7Fg5zEOpZGnGSCAj/s640/blogger-image--205260419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDDIQ_loRaFnLtZRSFWvEpJEd314vCi5KR2pOtSNa3BuKHnUKaFziQ_BWCDxA9AATGlj3Ma9af-qvs6Uxqez7F-CFoONDq1cGFH0RmKMlRaaXF3wmRpRA2J2WN7Fg5zEOpZGnGSCAj/s320/blogger-image--205260419.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>2. Corporette: </b>I work in finance, and since our clients are typically more conservative, so is our office dress code. But I love a challenge. A pop of color or a bold pattern (preferably both!) make my army of pencil skirts, Tippy sweaters, and Reva flats far more interesting--as do my carefully selected accessories. Clothes: patterned pencil skirt, black sweater, and black patent leather flats. Arm candy: <a href="http://store.rockwellwatches.com/collections/mens-watches/products/cartel-rose-gold">the Cartel</a>. Some opt to remove a link or two from their watch band to make it fit just right, but I like mine worn loose so that it's more like a bracelet than an ordinary watch. Can we call it a watchlet?? Is that a thing??? Whatever the case, this watch is cool enough to be worn all by itself.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg225_QoAZuiksmdoGqifoE1zEoHZRB8GDd0BnJ7d8XRp2JwnIx9TyGjZeDIlE5iyrOlQwi_Drd1hSx8IC6xcTToXjM1iC9zm2VncJxPl_yX14LQualtHNVOnhpC-8hjFLnISAEi2Vl/s1600/P4233867-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg225_QoAZuiksmdoGqifoE1zEoHZRB8GDd0BnJ7d8XRp2JwnIx9TyGjZeDIlE5iyrOlQwi_Drd1hSx8IC6xcTToXjM1iC9zm2VncJxPl_yX14LQualtHNVOnhpC-8hjFLnISAEi2Vl/s1600/P4233867-2.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photograph by <a href="http://www.peterfraileyphoto.com/">Peter Frailey</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>3. Girl on the go: </b>Like many working moms out there, I wear a lot of hats. Okay, so maybe not <i>hats</i> so much, but definitely shoes! Many days, I go from work to home, and then sometimes out again; I love that my new watch can go with me! Last weekend, after a family Easter egg hunt on Saturday morning, I waved goodbye to my husband and kids and dashed out the door for some much needed girl time: mani/pedis, a late lunch, and a little shopping with one of my favorite fashionista friends. Clothes: distressed denim, white tee, and grey Toms. Arm candy: <a href="http://store.rockwellwatches.com/collections/mens-watches/products/cartel-rose-gold">the Cartel</a> and a mix of silver and gold Alex and Ani bangles. The rose gold watch works perfectly if you like mixing metals (I do)--and as it turns out, looks amazing with white Shellac polish too. </span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One watch, three ways--and counting... Watch me!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-6115779507680499352013-09-09T11:42:00.000-04:002013-11-03T13:51:37.514-05:00the summer report<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkDOhe8TxXkmvlHOmMZ6EGRAxJcfzh3ix4YNmDPrsHewOuGNPxAxi5E9wYCg5Sna01huEmBWoWZ8tyh5GO8fqmRuI87XdUkQhOBKHgLAEcKog45MbNeAereqDabv-bDTe-4Wh8vBS2/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkDOhe8TxXkmvlHOmMZ6EGRAxJcfzh3ix4YNmDPrsHewOuGNPxAxi5E9wYCg5Sna01huEmBWoWZ8tyh5GO8fqmRuI87XdUkQhOBKHgLAEcKog45MbNeAereqDabv-bDTe-4Wh8vBS2/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Happy 30th birthday to me!<br />And goodbye to summer...</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With Labor Day now behind us, as far as my calendar is concerned, summer is over. True, the autumnal equinox isn't for a few more weeks, but doesn't it just <i>feel</i> like fall? And with that sentiment in mind, it's time for me to disclose the outcome of my summer to-do list...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.796875px;"><b>1. Reread <i>The Great Gatsby </i>(my favorite summer book) </b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.796875px;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.796875px;">Done! No matter how many times I reread this story, I love it all over again. It is always makes me feel a little nostalgic, perhaps because I was in high school when I read it for the very first time, and I can't help but feel reminded of the passage of time--which is, of course, is a central theme in the novel. The tale of Nick, Daisy, and Gatsby is </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.796875px;">yet tragic, yet beautiful, and it will always remain my favorite summer book.</span><br />
<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></b>
<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;">2. Finally complete Harper's baby book</b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="line-height: 20.79px;">Speaking of the passage of time... It was quite something to relive the first year of Harper's life through photographs, as a story in pictures--</span>particularly, as we approach the arrival of her baby brother--and shortly thereafter, her second birthday.<span style="line-height: 20.79px;">The finished baby book is simple, but I'm so happy with how it turned out and to have the ability to look back through something tangible, rather than scrolling through the photos on my iPhone. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>3. Make s'mores around an outdoor fire</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="line-height: 20.79px;">Done--and yum!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>4. Redo my bedroom décor</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">While I sincerely wish I could say that this task was completed in its entirety, it remains a work-in-progress. However, I still feel excited about the progress being made. My devoted husband is hard at work on our space-saving bed, and the rest of the room will come together around this central piece. It was my hope (okay, demand) that all of this be finished before the arrival of our baby in a couple of weeks. Alas, the bed will be completed by this time (demand), but the full redo will likely continue on well into the fall. Isn't that just the nature of home projects--particularly when the demanding one is too pregnant to do much about it! Shrug.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>5. Explore a New England beach I haven't been to before</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;">My amazing friends helped me check this one off the list with the incredible beach day they planned in honor of my birthday. And this wasn't your run-of-the-mill tote bag and towel beach experience either. Rather, my kind and creative friends created a luxe cabana area for us to lounge for lunch, including the fixings for beach-inspired mocktails, homemade lobster rolls, and lots of time for gossip and conversation. After a few hours in the sun, we showered, changed and dashed off for birthday cupcakes and shopping in the quaint, seaside town where my darling friend, T, lives with her boyfriend. And I even bought a jacket for fall! Perfection.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>6. Finally have a picnic with my amazing cousin before she moves </b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;">Technically, this is a FAIL--and now she is gone (tear). But what we lacked in picnic time, we made up for with a fun, family walk to our local ice cream parlor on the night before she left town. What better way to say, not goodbye, but see you later?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>7. Go for long summer walks (a favorite pastime)</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;">Maybe "long" is a bit of a stretch, but lately Harper and I have been enjoying strolls through our neighborhood, along with purposeful treks to Starbucks for cool refreshments. It is either really wrong or totally amazing that she can recognize the Starbucks logo on the cup. Either way, we have been trying to get out and enjoy the fresh air during these late summer and early fall days. Soon the leaves will be changing, the temperatures dropping, and we will be wishing for the chance to do so again.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>8. Do more yoga </b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;">Do my amazing new hot pink Wunder Under Crops from Lululemon count? My attendance in yoga class this summer has been embarrassing. I can only hope (pray) that my postnatal practice will be far better, especially if I'm motivated by those extra lbs...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>9. Eat fiddleheads while they're in season</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;">Sadly, another fail. But next year I will be sure to remember that fiddlehead season is in MAY. This year, it's crossed off the list as an impossibility due to my poor time management. I used to be an organized person. That was before I (literally and figuratively) came unheeled.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.79px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>10. Plan my perfect 30th birthday in the absence of Chanel (tick tock!)</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: normal;">Hello, 30! I had a truly amazing birthday, thanks entirely to my amazing family and friends. Following my indulgent spa date with my sister, I enjoyed: a beach day equipped with homemade lobster rolls and time to read FIVE magazines in the sun with some of my dearest friends; a birthday weekend out at my family's home in the Berkshires, complete with a family trek to the county fair; AND finally a lavish gold-themed surprise celebration with some fabulously golden girl friends. Do I sound spoiled yet? While my list may have suggested that I be the one to plan my perfect 30th, this was far, far greater.</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">While I didn't finish every single item on my list, I have to say that it was really helpful to have made one. It made me feel accountable for how I spent (or didn't spend) my time. I should say that there were things NOT on my list that ended up being fun summer activities too--like splashing in the pool with Harper, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">mani/pedi dates to blessedly air-conditioned nail salons with friends, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">trips to the farmers market, and trying delicious new recipes from Pinterest. I have to say that it has certainly been a productive summer, but I couldn't be more ready for fall. It feels only right to end summer the way we started, with F. Scott Fitzgerald:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I couldn't be more ready for those crisp fall days.</span><br />
<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-81833380412048141082013-08-22T22:23:00.000-04:002013-08-23T22:54:43.061-04:00au revoir twenty-something<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWO6CrSXovwVLuEV5b-EA57G6DiBzaJBMBVwsO3wJgbyR6KLd9riFY78wdeztyE_dILsTeAl_q6iBKhWPt4Ql5ouAOsVvSGwdmAHKZ0fWjO9lbzWJVFKnqXNxKU_Rz45RTgTSc2yj-/s1600/2507_1134733044091_4013951_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWO6CrSXovwVLuEV5b-EA57G6DiBzaJBMBVwsO3wJgbyR6KLd9riFY78wdeztyE_dILsTeAl_q6iBKhWPt4Ql5ouAOsVvSGwdmAHKZ0fWjO9lbzWJVFKnqXNxKU_Rz45RTgTSc2yj-/s400/2507_1134733044091_4013951_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Once upon a time...</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Today is major, as I say goodbye to my 20s and prepare to join the ranks of a new decade. I have been having issues about this milestone. When I was little and played with Barbies, I would make Barbie's mom 30; it seemed old, very adult-like and serious. So I was shocked when it came upon me so quickly. I thought I would own my own home by now, or at least my own Chanel handbag! But...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
I like to think that what I lack in status symbols, I make up for in other ways. While there is actually a lot that I don't remember about the last decade of my life, I have experienced the utmost in triumphs and tragedies--but have so much to be grateful for today. Namely I am thankful to be standing on the brink of a new age bracket with outstanding friends and an amazing family by my side, all of whom have made my birthday month ridiculously special so far--and it's not even my birthday yet!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
I have had this week off work, which may be one of the very best ways to celebrate any birthday. So today, while Harper did a half-day at school, I took the opportunity to run some errands AND treat myself to the obligatory mani/pedi so that I could feel truly ready to be a grown-up tomorrow. While my tootsies were being polished and pampered, I caught up on the September issue of <i>Glamour</i>, which must have been fate since one of the featured articles was <a href="http://www.glamour.com/entertainment/2013/08/olivia-wilde-s-advice-for-turning-30">Olivia Wilde's "Advice for Turning 30."</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Unlike my husband, Olivia Wilde has never exactly been on my radar, but it turns out the girl can write! As a fellow almost-30-year-old, she calls our impending milestone the "Cut the Bullsh-t and Go Be Awesome stage," which is definitely something I can get down with. I mean, please, I'm already awesome! Of her list of dos and don'ts for thirty-somethings out there, here are my three favorites--which made me laugh so I had to include them in their entirety rather than paraphrasing (I might be awesome, but I'm not exactly what you would call funny):</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /><i><b>DON'T freak out about all the brilliant people who accomplished more than you by 30.</b><br />Yes, Einstein had discovered the theory of relativity by your age, and Emily Brontë had written Wutheringfu*#ing Heights, but honestly, what you achieve is far less important than what kind of human being you are. What do you want people to say at your funeral: "Olivia may have cured HIV, but she ran over my cat and drove away laughing"? No, thanks! I'd rather be a good person who makes people happy than a dick who wins a Nobel by 32.</i></span><div>
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /><b>DO reap the benefits of your accumulated wisdom.</b></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You're 30: You know stuff now. Your twenties were for "ducking up," as my auto-correct would say, and learning from those mistakes. (For instance, never again will I convince myself that sleep is for sissies and go straight from a party to the airport. You will not "sleep on the plane"; you'll vomit in the security line. Go to bed.) Now you get to live with that knowledge under your belt. Also, make it a nice belt. You're 30. Stop dressing like a hobo.</span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /><b>And DON'T be bogged down by your past.</b></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Saturn has now orbited the sun once since you've been alive; make this next go-round whatever you want it to be. Consider your baggage (bad boyfriends, job setbacks, body issues) lost by the airline of life, leaving you empty-handed at your new destination with only one choice: Go shopping.<br /> <br />That's it. Now go—be awesome.</span></i></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The reality is that 30 is upon me, whether I'm "ready" for it or not. So what choice do I have but to boldly go where everyone 30+ has gone before? <br /><br />I may not have discovered the theory of relativity or even invented Post-Its, but I feel like I'm doing okay nonetheless and have left some room for growth too... I have become a little bit more domestic (thank you, Pinterest!); learned how to say no when I'm feeling stretched too thin; embraced flats; have started my own little family with my amazing and ridiculously tall husband; refuse to paint my own toes but can totally handle a DIY mani; stopped apologizing for my taste in bad tween TV; love where I work; have some seriously fabulous friends; and feel anchored by my faith. I told you I was already awesome! So 30 years old? Maybe I can handle this after all.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg26yVq4THwPwXSHsDSRQ2ZxVCJtGdxo3Up1BFiZoUIdlurLNPBy0M49FngeEfrAzRLx7ybB50w3a5_2_IGNrMRvg7umIdp-xhGNiatS6AB_-ElM1hmv7MsrdhlqjRCbR4q1rYSb0n1/s1600/52770_291609920943483_1369149016_o.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg26yVq4THwPwXSHsDSRQ2ZxVCJtGdxo3Up1BFiZoUIdlurLNPBy0M49FngeEfrAzRLx7ybB50w3a5_2_IGNrMRvg7umIdp-xhGNiatS6AB_-ElM1hmv7MsrdhlqjRCbR4q1rYSb0n1/s400/52770_291609920943483_1369149016_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;">To read Olivia Wilde's "Advice for Turning 30" in its entirety, click </span><a href="http://www.glamour.com/entertainment/2013/08/olivia-wilde-s-advice-for-turning-30" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">here</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;">--and enjoy!</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;">Harper and I were photographed by the talented Miss Emma Taylor in Fall 2012; check out her blog </span><a href="http://taylor--photography.blogspot.com/" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">here</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;">!</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-26340718350930406512013-08-12T16:38:00.002-04:002013-08-12T16:38:37.506-04:00summer update part 2<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Last month, after an embarrassing update, I promised I would have at least three more items crossed off my summer bucket list at the beginning of August. Since we are now forging into the middle of the month, I felt like I should make good on my promise. Here's where I stand...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTe31MDpx0P3PUJVpan9F4AzTZZn2xE-_IXnonGhvxKLGUcTnHayClLFH-A2uUxlLL9QqTFVJ6xGSabN71SS3uM0MHUhGdUNqtmJ_eWXgPGYuMYp4EQ0_RhuqvIWxJCAG0gmam0ZX/s1600/photo1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTe31MDpx0P3PUJVpan9F4AzTZZn2xE-_IXnonGhvxKLGUcTnHayClLFH-A2uUxlLL9QqTFVJ6xGSabN71SS3uM0MHUhGdUNqtmJ_eWXgPGYuMYp4EQ0_RhuqvIWxJCAG0gmam0ZX/s320/photo1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">My husband (on the left), making me the perfect s'more.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I am obsessed with s'mores right now. In fact, did you know that this past Saturday was National S'mores Day? I actually didn't discover that fun fact until Sunday, but at least my obsession is a timely one. I've had the chance to enjoy s'mores on several occasions in the last month. The best was definitely the traditional version, enjoyed around an outdoor fire with family and friends at my mom's house in Western MA. With Harper on my lap, my obliging husband was the one who actually made my s'mores (yes, I ate two), and he has basically perfected the art. Thanks to the life-changing powers of Pinterest, I have also learned about and successfully recreated a version of s'mores that doesn't require a camp fire. Behold, <a href="http://melissadionne.wordpress.com/2012/06/06/smore-bites/">the s'mores bite</a>; I know that s'mores sans fire sounds blasphemous, but these are pretty darn close to the real thing. If you don't believe me, just try them:</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcOJxpRB6oo82-g9-IvH3aYSs4E-w4Z3xcsU_hA_-WZpKLCs7jTI7dLMkLjKYiWLX3WdJzZC-d8Nw9R4hKZo7md5Cl5lFMdIefPlOA_d2gR35KF0pvV4uelwjiUKoDSEArC_DkKhds/s1600/photo2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcOJxpRB6oo82-g9-IvH3aYSs4E-w4Z3xcsU_hA_-WZpKLCs7jTI7dLMkLjKYiWLX3WdJzZC-d8Nw9R4hKZo7md5Cl5lFMdIefPlOA_d2gR35KF0pvV4uelwjiUKoDSEArC_DkKhds/s320/photo2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Yet another reason I love Pinterest: s'mores bites</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Ingredients:<br /> -6 graham cracker sheets<br /> -6 large marshmallows<br /> -12 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Directions:<br />-Break graham cracker sheets in half.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">-Cut each marshmallow in half.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">-Heat oven to Low Broil.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">-Align graham crackers in the center of a cookie sheet about 1/2″ apart from each other.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">-Top each graham cracker with a marshmallow with the cut/sticky side down.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">-Place marshmallow-topped graham crackers under broiler. Don't walk away! Watch them, as they will toast quickly, allow to toast until marshmallows are golden.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">-Once golden, immediately remove from oven, and place 1 Hershey's Kiss in the center of each toasted marshmallow and gently press down. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">Yum.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">It is indeed possible I have been eating so many s'mores in a desperate attempt to ignore the fact that I'm turning 30 this month. I've been trying to adjust my attitude though, since the truth of the matter is that aging is a gift that not everyone is able to enjoy. I haven't actively been planning the party of the century or anything, but I feel like my "perfect 30th birthday" is totally within reach, with my birth month off to a fabulous start. On Saturday, my lovely sister treated me to lunch at one of my favorite restaurants, followed by window shopping, and then an indulgent spa facial. It feels a little symbolic that I've shed a layer of skin (okay not really--but exfoliation counts) to greet a new decade. Regardless, sister spa time was a truly incredible birthday gift--and my skin feels amazing. Also amazing was the watermelon mint cooler I had at lunch, which I am now inspired to recreate at home.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheuaTyBhvGH5ypwrYp9tYRBcF_slyZf8Etg5damHwvDKXsXw59EtANtLnymmQd9qk5ufpuEfsi4MTHHWfBkbRlrEakQBvyxUGlStVsqjeQolNsCJ_FTu8dteHcsVuAvhM5J3GHOG-_/s1600/photo3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheuaTyBhvGH5ypwrYp9tYRBcF_slyZf8Etg5damHwvDKXsXw59EtANtLnymmQd9qk5ufpuEfsi4MTHHWfBkbRlrEakQBvyxUGlStVsqjeQolNsCJ_FTu8dteHcsVuAvhM5J3GHOG-_/s320/photo3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Watermelon Cooler at <a href="http://www.cottagewellesley.com/index.php">The Cottage</a> in Wellesley, MA</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">In fact, home creations just might be the theme of this month. I have been wanting to redo our bedroom for a while now. The décor just isn't working for us; it is dark and, despite our best design attempts when we moved in three years ago, just misses the mark. At the top of my "must have" list is space-saving storage, and to that end, I have been coveting <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/3005808/?catalogId=30&bnrid=3318529&cm_ven=Google_PLA&cm_cat=Furniture&cm_pla=Beds_&_Headboards&cm_ite=Stratton_Storage_Bed_with_Drawers%2C_Full/Queen%2C_Antique_White&srccode=cii_17588969&cpncode=30-242790759-2">an amazing storage bed from Pottery Barn</a> that is simply not within our budget. So my handyman husband found the plans online and began construction this weekend; I am nervous but excited to see how it will turn out. I have given him a pretty tight deadline of two weeks so only time will tell! Also part of the bedroom redo is a new color scheme palette. Right now, blue is our central color, but we're trying to move in a softer direction--perhaps a light grey, maybe accented by a pale aqua... We have nothing set in stone yet, as the bed is taking precedence, but I am looking forward to the finished product.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">So here's the official report:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">Reread <i>The Great Gatsby </i>(my favorite summer book) </span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">Hoping to accomplish this while I'm off work next week...</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">Finally complete Harper's baby book (she is going on 2, after all) </span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">Planning to finally order prints tonight!</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><strike>Make s'mores around an outdoor fire</strike></span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Done--and yum!<span style="color: black;"></span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">Redo my bedroom décor </span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">A work in progress!</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">Explore a New England beach I haven't been to before </span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">On the calendar for this weekend with some of my besties--another early birthday celebration!</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">Finally have a picnic with my amazing cousin before she moves </span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">Hopefully this week?</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">Go for long summer walks (a favorite pastime)</span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">A walk is not the same thing as walk<strong>s</strong> so clearly I'm still working on this one... Fortunately for me, the temperatures have been lovely this month so far--so let's leave it at "to be continued."</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">Do more yoga</span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">Haven't been back to class yet... Le sigh.</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strike><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">Eat fiddleheads while they're in season</span></strike></span></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">Impossible (poor time management)</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">Plan my perfect 30th birthday in the absence of Chanel (tick tock!) </span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black; font-size: x-small;">A work in progress...</span></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; line-height: 20.79px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I still have a lot of work to do, but I'm feeling much, much better about my progress this time around. Things weren't looking good for me for a moment there, but I'm grateful that I actually put my summer goals in writing so that I can truly hold myself accountable. Thankfully now it's all happening! Stay tuned for the final report...</span><br />
<br />
</span></span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-31127363002475552592013-07-22T17:29:00.001-04:002013-07-22T17:33:07.055-04:00stealing from friends<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Last month, I attended a health and beauty exchange with some of my favorite ladies. For those unfamiliar with this type of event, it is like a Yankee Swap but far more fabulous. Here's how it works: you set a price point for a favorite health or beauty item; buy enough for all who will be in attendance; and get together to exchange and dish on your health and beauty secrets. So fun, right?! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I picked up some helpful tricks of the trade, and a few particulars have already been implemented in my own personal regime:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFK-M-gQggEWrhf-LtpnDYjj6ltOTfL-5A-SCxxFEO6XXFnTWD7o_SGsW6QQTAEur19jZp3QBIzqv-D2fd2i4YzgwFaeU5Gawde-lQrzzdHdzcUML5P-O1f15Iro0ryunojumcOy5v/s1600/photo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFK-M-gQggEWrhf-LtpnDYjj6ltOTfL-5A-SCxxFEO6XXFnTWD7o_SGsW6QQTAEur19jZp3QBIzqv-D2fd2i4YzgwFaeU5Gawde-lQrzzdHdzcUML5P-O1f15Iro0ryunojumcOy5v/s1600/photo1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">All About Eyes, $30 for 0.5 oz.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">by Clinique</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Available at Sephora</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">The lovely Genevieve shared a beauty secret she learned during her time in France: under-eye cream is a MUST. She swears by <a href="http://www.sephora.com/all-about-eyes-P122774?om_mmc=Googlepla,_requestid=42976,cm_mmc=us_search-_-GG-_-pla-_-,ci_src=17588969,ci_sku=126581">Clinique's All About Eyes</a>, applied twice daily as part of her morning and evening routine. Since my under-eyes haven't exactly received rave reviews since my adventures as a fashionista became the unheeled adventures of fashionista and baby, I had to try it for myself. I have been using All About Eyes for only a couple of weeks now so I can't speak to the long-term results, but I already love the restorative, moisturizing lightness of this cream and the fact that a little goes a long way. Hopefully I am also on my way towards looking as fresh-faced as Genevieve and the <em>tres chic</em> women of France.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1PDz0bpA0rSyW620tqFghSXfLZiJ_lbvJig20LWabcN0CDSwSAXLVTNnQ-Jiear2sbG7UGC6hH8xFiWqV72v-tfnkraPb1iKY59U5PBfWd4WzA7i11FzN-OnPew9gKeDSJy6SEAxh/s1600/photo+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1PDz0bpA0rSyW620tqFghSXfLZiJ_lbvJig20LWabcN0CDSwSAXLVTNnQ-Jiear2sbG7UGC6hH8xFiWqV72v-tfnkraPb1iKY59U5PBfWd4WzA7i11FzN-OnPew9gKeDSJy6SEAxh/s320/photo+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Almond Supple Skin Oil, $40</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">by L'Occitane</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">The lovely Mary shared a very helpful beauty secret for expectant mamas, the <a href="http://usa.loccitane.com/almond-supple-skin-oil,82,1,39162,262124.htm">Almond Supple Skin Oil from L'Occitane</a>. Having recently moved into my third-trimester, this seemed like a necessity. Made of almond and Cameline oil, your skin is left feeling deeply moisturized and more toned. It is safe to apply all over, and since I find the summer to be a very drying season, particularly as Harper and I frequent the pool, I've also been using it on my legs to combat dryness. I had shied away from oils in the past for fear that I would feel greasy or sticky, but this oil is light and absorbs into the skin quickly. Those who know me also know that I am olfactorily-challenged, but from what I have heard, the scent is delicious too!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIxVgkgrchhTzKkueBMQg0dPlVeWKLBfavKDsAxPOVBqBqPk01H1C0YYk3P6G2LkObuOMPUtHu5v3Wd7cC2KXEGQCkPqA1c_xqGve1bsjXr-YELBmc2He1hqUZshlZE5RV5Eg_Zk1K/s1600/photo+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIxVgkgrchhTzKkueBMQg0dPlVeWKLBfavKDsAxPOVBqBqPk01H1C0YYk3P6G2LkObuOMPUtHu5v3Wd7cC2KXEGQCkPqA1c_xqGve1bsjXr-YELBmc2He1hqUZshlZE5RV5Eg_Zk1K/s320/photo+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Sugar Shine Lip Treatment, $18.50</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">by Fresh </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Available at Sephora</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">The lovely Aimee introduced me to <a href="http://www.sephora.com/sugar-shine-lip-treatment-P379109?skuId=1530153">Fresh's Sugar Shine Lip Treatment</a>, and I am a total convert. In the past, I have used and loved their <a href="http://www.sephora.com/sugar-advanced-therapy-lip-treatment-P302103?skuId=1378215">Sugar Advanced Therapy</a>, and so I trust Fresh implicitly. While it is difficult to compete with <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/sara-happ-the-lip-slip-one-luxe-lip-gloss/3279420?cm_cat=datafeed&cm_ite=sara_happ(r)_'the_lip_slip(r)_one_luxe'_lip_gloss:536281&cm_pla=makeup:women:lip&cm_ven=Google_Product_Ads&mr:referralID=7fbf85a4-f313-11e2-9389-001b2166c62d">Sara Happ's Lip Slip</a>, which has been my glossy go-to for what feels like forever, the Sugar Shine Lip Treatment brings the amazing powers of Fresh to a shiny new place. This all-in-one lip remedy is neither heavy nor sticky, but it moisturizes while also adding gloss and a subtle sheen. All of this has earned it a place in my handbag to be used for any and every occasion; I am completely obsessed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I feel very fortunate to be in the mix with some totally dialed-in girlies and to have the opportunity to beg, borrow, and steal their secrets to health and beauty. Hopefully this will be the first of many health and beauty exchanges to come! </span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-81356725414882219702013-07-14T15:50:00.000-04:002013-07-14T15:50:11.367-04:00summer update<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here's the dirty truth about my summer bucket list so far: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I missed fiddlehead season--by a long shot. Eating fiddleheads, as it turns out, should have been on my May to-do list. Now that I know, you can count on me to be first in line at Wilson Farms next year (not that people wait in line for that sort of thing--but they should).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The summer walks haven't been happening. With a few exceptions, the temperature has been hovering in the 90s for far too long. Over the holiday weekend, Harper and I attempted a leisurely early morning walk, and we (me) basically had to crawl home and dip our (my) feet in a cold bath (hers). Definitely NOT the ethereal summer exercise I had envisioned. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I have gone to yoga all of one time. In fairness to me, Harper and I were away this past weekend--but still. I am pathetic. Or maybe I just need some new Lulu gear to motivate me???</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">On the upside, I am happy to report that I haven't been letting summer pass me by and have been trying to embrace a more DIY spirit this summer to really enjoy the little things...</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1VGGdLgBFLw9YJ9J-MoS3tCeOnq8qHpg835nDvuBvtqR8BLWDxai0AjkwmSgVIT71aS-oWPnLwdPctyAkGU7l6BDMXMg2CxJkovAfv5j9iUNUjJKPYvg_SDsM5ij9e_2OAeuCviX/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1VGGdLgBFLw9YJ9J-MoS3tCeOnq8qHpg835nDvuBvtqR8BLWDxai0AjkwmSgVIT71aS-oWPnLwdPctyAkGU7l6BDMXMg2CxJkovAfv5j9iUNUjJKPYvg_SDsM5ij9e_2OAeuCviX/s320/photo+(1).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pesto caprese</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Okay, so I missed out on fiddleheads, but there is so much amazing produce to be enjoyed in New England during the summer that the consolation is huge. Caprese has always been a favorite of mine, and I've had fun putting my own spin on it. Since Dallin rather loathes tomatoes, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">when our friend, Rachel, came for Sunday dinner last weekend, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I was excited for the chance to share my most recent caprese experiment, made with these incredible yellow tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and arugula lemon pesto (added bonus: the pesto was homemade by my friend, Talyn). You'll have to ask Rachel for a more objective report, but I was in love.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As I said, I've been trying to be more DIY lately, and this extends to the fashion/beauty realm. This is in part a budget-driven endeavor, but it also feels good to accomplish something special on my own. And given all the time I spend on Pinterest while we are watching TV in the evening, there's really no reason not to try some of my (p)inspirations. Today's DIY attempt: watermelon nails. Well, a watermelon deconstruction is perhaps a more accurate description, comprised of: <a href="http://www.chanel.com/en_US/fragrance-beauty/Makeup-Nails-LE-VERNIS-89314">Chanel's <i>May</i></a>, <a href="http://www.target.com/p/maybelline-color-show-nail-color-green-with-envy/-/A-14061012?ref=tgt_adv_XSG10001&AFID=Google_PLA_df&LNM=%7C14061012&CPNG=Health+Beauty&kpid=14061012&LID=PA&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=14061012&gclid=CIDV1LvXr7gCFQ2f4AodDDAACg">Maybelline's <i>Green With Envy</i></a>, and a pinch of pink fabric glitter. While they may not be professional, they're totally fun and easy. Which is also important.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaiEou6K9BEEwhc0JxI9WCMb3P8_BQGLowWnyIpqkQUK0wj2B9VdcwIKEPTi9CnlC5aB8pOWdQsaoi1xVvJ3mGcrDFAX9V5HNxS49z4MI4icuIL5chOgqLalYxVXXptbQUC-ziNqXQ/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaiEou6K9BEEwhc0JxI9WCMb3P8_BQGLowWnyIpqkQUK0wj2B9VdcwIKEPTi9CnlC5aB8pOWdQsaoi1xVvJ3mGcrDFAX9V5HNxS49z4MI4icuIL5chOgqLalYxVXXptbQUC-ziNqXQ/s320/photo+(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Watermelon nails</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Last week, my friend, Aimee, and I also began making <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/316166836310798654/">friendship bracelets a la Martha Stewart</a>. I know I was bragging last month about how I used to make these all the time during my tween years, but as it turns out, it's not exactly like riding a bike. Aimee and I both opted for the chevron "V" design; I have restarted my bracelet at least twice, and I think we also had to watch one YouTube video to help our technique. Other things Martha didn't tell us: neon thread and metallic thread are really difficult, if not totally impossible, to work with. That being said, fab company, plus ice cream from one of my favorite local spots and an episode of <i>The Real Housewives of Orange County</i> was totally morale-boosting, and we will NOT give up until our bracelets look like they belong in <i>Martha Stewart Living</i>. That is a promise.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To return to my summer bucket list, a little less than one month later, here's where I stand:</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Reread <i>The Great Gatsby </i>(my favorite summer book) </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Finally complete Harper's baby book (she is going on 2, after all)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Make s'mores around an outdoor fire</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Redo my bedroom decor</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Explore a New England beach I haven't been to before</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Finally have a picnic with my amazing cousin before she moves </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Go for long summer walks (a favorite pastime)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Do more yoga</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><strike>-Eat fiddleheads while they're in season</strike></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Plan my perfect 30th birthday in the absence of Chanel (tick tock!)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Let's just say that I'm glad this is not school and that I will not be receiving a progress report. Fortunately, summer is far from over, and so I will be so bold as to put it in writing that by, the time we turn our calendars to August (yes, I still have a real paper calendar hanging on the kitchen wall), at least three more items will be crossed off--and not because they are impossible to accomplish due to poor planning. So stay tuned--and stay cool!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-8529652283059988782013-07-05T23:02:00.001-04:002013-07-05T23:02:31.119-04:00miss independence day: the 4th in 3 parts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1. My first peach cobbler was a success--yay! And yum.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigmFN-mfa_X8xabMzepYVZ2eUH0ARN5a1gQIvzAMeNR9SMmfAttFUn7ghK9HerA3TSSVCkhYGEfRALJ-IJG-LuO2l92xaeEzWp-SlkKf5i0VLUWM9eeb0NVwixD-KK0Rpoj9slxeQO/s1600/IMG_4369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigmFN-mfa_X8xabMzepYVZ2eUH0ARN5a1gQIvzAMeNR9SMmfAttFUn7ghK9HerA3TSSVCkhYGEfRALJ-IJG-LuO2l92xaeEzWp-SlkKf5i0VLUWM9eeb0NVwixD-KK0Rpoj9slxeQO/s400/IMG_4369.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2. My pretty little patriot--in her French stripes.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBiFleMRKnsr2l6V6GYPmM5LyaV-hrGyXkAIxnRHLKCnfHE9a-G1X4WyHIKFt8JBDMwNj7ybla6A8bDssPI8qHA9S_Gu3C9CIGHKhq8HvNHWm4nEjCj-VMidA2zXg31aOBLjWqH6U-/s1600/IMG_4366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBiFleMRKnsr2l6V6GYPmM5LyaV-hrGyXkAIxnRHLKCnfHE9a-G1X4WyHIKFt8JBDMwNj7ybla6A8bDssPI8qHA9S_Gu3C9CIGHKhq8HvNHWm4nEjCj-VMidA2zXg31aOBLjWqH6U-/s400/IMG_4366.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3. Nailed it! My Star-spangled nails, poolside.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigp3rUWp2Y3SGWNiwlsGWDav2NM8QKct6mqtAxsB519Bgau-NFbUYsrROEmaYDI5qHBV-rx24M-jTR_X0eBqID_0BVjpvaHK6j5weO-xkq7a-8l6_xDmZgb44vPWbVntDEtXCcZXV3/s1600/IMG_4358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigp3rUWp2Y3SGWNiwlsGWDav2NM8QKct6mqtAxsB519Bgau-NFbUYsrROEmaYDI5qHBV-rx24M-jTR_X0eBqID_0BVjpvaHK6j5weO-xkq7a-8l6_xDmZgb44vPWbVntDEtXCcZXV3/s400/IMG_4358.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-6117010660064869022013-07-02T21:55:00.005-04:002013-07-03T23:07:28.618-04:00may the 4th be with you<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It's July--what?! Seriously, how did that happen so quickly? This week has been amazing though; with the 4th on Thursday this year, I only had to work TWO days this week. I could really get used to that sort of schedule. My little family is looking forward to celebrating Independence Day, grilling with friends and enjoying time together as a family. Here are a few pieces of Americana that have me feeling festive this week:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKbTrV5xGjybz9Z6CC-Rtx5XYM_SjTxVximqf7pJPSAvJaZEBsub7Oqj0PrQW-AjP9wxmeuJN9YfV55OXb_GgZTXPncWtT3BiBUDt7GN-5vZVENWIx4vlPcgaXy8lmPcqxXTQrExpR/s825/img_2513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKbTrV5xGjybz9Z6CC-Rtx5XYM_SjTxVximqf7pJPSAvJaZEBsub7Oqj0PrQW-AjP9wxmeuJN9YfV55OXb_GgZTXPncWtT3BiBUDt7GN-5vZVENWIx4vlPcgaXy8lmPcqxXTQrExpR/s320/img_2513.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Movita Beaucoup Peach Cobbler</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Peach pie. We were </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">asked to bring a</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> dessert to our friends' 4th of July BBQ, and like any good domestic goddess wannabe, you know I immediately consulted Pinterest for culinary inspiration. While the red, white, and blue cakes and fruit confections are absolutely classic, I feel like it doesn't get more all-American than peach cobbler. Harper, Dallin, and I hit the market earlier this evening to gather our supplies, and now I couldn't be more excited to try <a href="http://movitabeaucoup.com/2011/08/31/peach-cobbler/">this recipe from Movita Beaucoup</a>:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">For the filling-</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">4 cups peeled and sliced fresh peaches (about 8 or 9 peaches)<br />3/4 cup brown sugar<br />1 teaspoon cinnamon<br />1 teaspoon vanilla<br />1 tablespoon flour</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">For the crust-<br />1 cup flour<br />1 teaspoon baking powder<br />1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />3 tablespoons brown sugar<br />4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces<br />2/3 cup buttermilk<br />1 tablespoon brown sugar, for topping<br />whipped cream or ice cream for serving (optional)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">To prepare:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;">-Preheat the oven to 425</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">-Combine all dry ingredients for cobbler crust in a bowl, and set aside.<br />-Generously grease a 1 1/2-quart shallow baking dish. Place the sliced peaches in the dish and sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and flour. Mix gently and spread evenly in the baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes.<br />-While the peaches are cooking, cut the butter into the awaiting dry crust ingredients with a pastry cutter or your fingers, to make the texture like coarse crumbs. Add the buttermilk and stir to form a soft dough.<br />-Remove the peach mixture from oven and drop rounded spoonfuls of dough on top. Then sprinkle the top of your cobbler with the remaining tablespoon of brown sugar, and return to oven. Bake until the fruit is bubbly and crust topping is golden brown, about 20 minutes. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">-Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream. Yum!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhof8NNGzsigaGdgOcfb0S5tZjQc-iqYNcalijKMWCeKslOFwdOi7Srr3U7ZNn72_BxrbXTSOBwDihmJ8_anjsYl0YuBOhtHxmvaxiZ8TojeQdGXCShzbVmTBq-wHzbjeCRX56mkW5f/s290/5039_gitan_ecume_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhof8NNGzsigaGdgOcfb0S5tZjQc-iqYNcalijKMWCeKslOFwdOi7Srr3U7ZNn72_BxrbXTSOBwDihmJ8_anjsYl0YuBOhtHxmvaxiZ8TojeQdGXCShzbVmTBq-wHzbjeCRX56mkW5f/s320/5039_gitan_ecume_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Girl's Milleraies Striped Tee in gitan/ecume, $22.50<br />by Petit Bateau</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Patriotic stripes. Harper's Grammy Sue surprised her on Monday with <a href="http://www.petit-bateau.us/Girls_milleraies_striped_tee/pd/c/511/np/511/p/5039.html">this special tee from Petit Bateau</a> to wear on the 4th, and it has taken all my willpower to wait for the grand debut. Granted, Petit Bateau isn't exactly classically American, but let's be honest, it doesn't get much cuter or more patriotic than red and white stripes. Perhaps my favorite detail is the little bow at the neck (the neckline and bow on Harper's tee are white instead of the red shown here). As a side note, the Petit Bateau store on Newbury Street in Boston is closing at the end of this week. This means that we have recently purchased some amazing Petit Bateau swag at even more amazing sale prices--but I am absolutely heartbroken to see it go. Anyway... My vision: this tee, paired with little H's chambray shorts, and her red, white, and blue hair bow...hello, Miss American Pie!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQdVw7qjPGn714hwpKovL5_PU4SGcm-jYFnX__xkPFEszjfhWzmSSWw2BIUJ4Arivd5MSGBwS-dLTYD8HCeXqwPQ1TitCivuvkEzwbBiPjTTMJX8JXY_DTiuXZyWJzcmibgPRbwPY/s410/14282446_121022123000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQdVw7qjPGn714hwpKovL5_PU4SGcm-jYFnX__xkPFEszjfhWzmSSWw2BIUJ4Arivd5MSGBwS-dLTYD8HCeXqwPQ1TitCivuvkEzwbBiPjTTMJX8JXY_DTiuXZyWJzcmibgPRbwPY/s200/14282446_121022123000.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Butler Please, $7.79<br />by Essie<br />Available from Target</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Starry nails. I was super bummed to miss viewing <i>The Bachelorette</i> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">with some of my favorite girlies this week, particularly as our TV night was also a </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">patriotic nail painting party! Sigh. Nonetheless, I'm doing my best to nail it on my own this time, thanks to <a href="http://www.target.com/p/essie-nail-color-butler-please/-/A-14282446">Essie's Butler Please</a>, a nail color recommendation from my fashion icon friend, Aimee, who has it on her toes as I type this. Called an "indulgent, bright blue," I'm totally loving it. This blue is peppy, patriotic, and even a little nautical. After another trip down the Pinterest rabbit hole, I've been inspired to take my nail painting party to the next level and to try <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/316166836310807309/">this</a> polished version of star spangled, using the reverse color scheme, all blue with one red (not just <i>any</i> red but <a href="http://www.essie.com/Colors/Reds/lollipop.aspx">Essie's Lollipop</a>, another summer fave). Pictures to follow!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvDOl6jbwPYpMEFeaT02DH0JHtbBAeaZpvvsSPVXe87kVzhPcFDwttVUGmfQqES_xGaWU-yKTAjbTPzHMBkrFpqmVque6xg68T5gpHicTYvLvXxF2XZK4PVHVSjJSr05jRrBUj7pBw/s595/4th+of+july+nails.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvDOl6jbwPYpMEFeaT02DH0JHtbBAeaZpvvsSPVXe87kVzhPcFDwttVUGmfQqES_xGaWU-yKTAjbTPzHMBkrFpqmVque6xg68T5gpHicTYvLvXxF2XZK4PVHVSjJSr05jRrBUj7pBw/s320/4th+of+july+nails.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pinterest inspiration: 4th of July nails</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">From peach pie to stars and stripes, I'm looking forward to celebrating tomorrow. I feel like I would be remiss if I didn't express my appreciation for living in the land of the free and the home of the brave--and for those men and women that have made those blessings possible. Happy 4th of July--and may the 4th be with you!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-76227736300419245292013-06-21T13:18:00.000-04:002013-06-21T13:26:44.970-04:00Happy Summer!<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Today is the Summer Solstice, and I am totally ready for the official start of summer. The weather in Boston this week has been gorgeous; warm but not too hot, zero humidity, breezy in the evening... Did I somehow transplant to California? Seriously though. Here are some happy summer things to start the season right:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Okay, so I haven't been to the beach yet, but that doesn't stop me from faking it with another layer (or two!) of bronzer. Summer beauty products are tricky though. When the temperatures rise, no girl wants her face to melt. This <a href="http://www.sephora.com/watt-s-up-P295206?skuId=1357250">luminizer from Benefit </a>is a beauty product that I've heard a lot about; it is essentially a shimmery highlighter for your face. You apply it to your cheeks and brow bones and then blend with the handy blending tip. I'm dying to try it this summer, when I'm stuck in the office (sigh) but craving the beachy glow of a woman of leisure.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPGtgnKZqfZVtEzRSro_hajqqbgJK3_z068_Obzt_CL4BHY_qUsV0eOj543O9B-FHuYkgl4SDylprNpWscn0nPruUlhImQjEwKBI4WaPm0LGgwkKTTbrK-UL3lER5TQdUrll-57F7G/s1600/s1357250-main-Lhero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPGtgnKZqfZVtEzRSro_hajqqbgJK3_z068_Obzt_CL4BHY_qUsV0eOj543O9B-FHuYkgl4SDylprNpWscn0nPruUlhImQjEwKBI4WaPm0LGgwkKTTbrK-UL3lER5TQdUrll-57F7G/s320/s1357250-main-Lhero.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Watts Up! Luminizer in luminous champagne, $30<br />by Benefit Cosmetics</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Not only is today the first day of summer, but it's also National Wear Your Lilly day! Pulitzer, that is. My newest Lilly love is the Jolene Skirt, a soft jersey maxi skirt with diagonal seams and stripes to match in a soft, tidal blue. When I said I was all about maxis this season, I wasn't kidding. Plus, in honor of Lilly day, you score a free Lilly key chain with any purchase or a printed wristlet with orders of $250 or more. I love it when there is a cherry on top.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxgGAhHzIAn3eV6a-6GRhj7CR7m3i6Bm8LK1Kc7BD1BKFr9BtkwJWiCx9S1MyXtZ5zXWLWa7X1EnAknh1zJoXHqCyBEPe8xoGn1Hjp-vcSnl72dNaLKnQqjA_WpyYgWF-IXlomuum/s1600/53966_tidebluelazydaysstripe_a3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxgGAhHzIAn3eV6a-6GRhj7CR7m3i6Bm8LK1Kc7BD1BKFr9BtkwJWiCx9S1MyXtZ5zXWLWa7X1EnAknh1zJoXHqCyBEPe8xoGn1Hjp-vcSnl72dNaLKnQqjA_WpyYgWF-IXlomuum/s640/53966_tidebluelazydaysstripe_a3.jpeg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Jolene Skirt in tide blue lazy days stripe, $148<br />by Lilly Pulitzer</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This Monday night, I was able to watch The Bachelorette with some lovely ladies AND have my nails painted by my amazingly talented friend, Aimee. In honor of summer, I now have <a href="http://www.drugstore.com/opi-classics-collection-nail-lacquer-hot-and-spicy/qxp467764">OPI's Hot and Spicy</a> on my nails, a punchy lobster orange that pairs perfectly with nautical colors like navy and white--but that's not all. I am also a total stud; well, my digits are at least, thanks to Aimee's guidance and the tiny gold pyramid studs on each of my nails. It's okay to be jealous.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir07eKRtetk7QIWhrrpIHzZqmzPshqOE28dtfmk6An1_td5OIHnVDhk0czvXARVQMjuNkG7JgKTXMtOHhUDZbor_gd4Sh-LiY4iZyId-3AYc_FN2VQfu8qEzTuncUNvl5LQdU5ZK2C/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir07eKRtetk7QIWhrrpIHzZqmzPshqOE28dtfmk6An1_td5OIHnVDhk0czvXARVQMjuNkG7JgKTXMtOHhUDZbor_gd4Sh-LiY4iZyId-3AYc_FN2VQfu8qEzTuncUNvl5LQdU5ZK2C/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Orange Studded Nails--<br />love love love.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Remember making friendship bracelets? I was obsessed. Growing up, whenever we would take long family car trips, I would tote my trusty box of embroidery floss and fashion all sorts of fantastic bracelets that adorned my left arm like whoa. Yes, I have always been this cool. So you can imagine my excitement when I saw that friendship bracelets are making a comeback--for adults. In the July/August issue of <i>Martha Stewart Living</i>, friendship bracelets are the main attraction--and they're all grown up, thanks to sophisticated color palettes, metallic thread, and other adornments. Maybe it's because my nails are already studded, but I feel like a speckle of studs or perhaps even rhinestones would really take this summer camp classic to a fabulous place. I honestly think I need a Bedazzler; do they even make those anymore?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6fsbdDCCpsjnWQ8DU4YlpNnR7F1zdbaYBnnFW-warvIe2JAuhlU0xxfUYUKWyzW36DgHGHhYW0A1J4T7qr0YhloayxZxIj7hFYreuWFh-zP4ktNVOaPv7Tg-zSQKmKKVV1wA0_fQy/s1600/photo-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6fsbdDCCpsjnWQ8DU4YlpNnR7F1zdbaYBnnFW-warvIe2JAuhlU0xxfUYUKWyzW36DgHGHhYW0A1J4T7qr0YhloayxZxIj7hFYreuWFh-zP4ktNVOaPv7Tg-zSQKmKKVV1wA0_fQy/s320/photo-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Friendship Bracelets, All Grown Up<br />from <i>Martha Stewart Living</i>, July/August 2013</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">During the summer, I hate to turn on the oven when it's already so hot outside already--particularly when our house is regrettably not cooled by central air but by two window AC units and half a dozen old school fans. Needless to say, summer salads and other cool treats are an absolute must. I'm currently obsessed with <a href="http://www.bonappetit.com/recipes/2009/07/watermelon_feta_and_arugula_salad_with_balsamic_glaze">this watermelon, feta, and arugula salad with balsamic glaze</a>. I had a version of it at Bertucci's about a month or so ago, and I have been in love ever since. Plus, it's super easy to make:</span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Ingredients:<br />1 5-ounce package baby arugula<br />8 cups 3/4-inch cubes seedless watermelon<br />1 7-ounce package feta cheese, crumbled<br />2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar glaze*<br /><br />*Balsamic vinegar glaze can be found in the vinegar section at most supermarkets, but in a pinch you can make it yourself by boiling 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan until reduced to 3 tablespoons, (about 6 to 7 minutes).<br /><br />Preparation:<br />Arrange arugula over large platter. Scatter watermelon, then feta over. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with pepper.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhSRm4RlIFpi_SHOIp9UJmnL2L-Xtt0A6aebbYBPLp9mRu90sybCBin-JSYMtL7HmmC6iYWvioEq9mbLFpJxn7qRmKsodwhX6rQsXYD2bnZHsN_5AMGIrHtmVglC3p12sy0eEDqg8p/s1600/mare_watermelon_feta_and_arugula_salad_with_balsamic_glaze_v.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhSRm4RlIFpi_SHOIp9UJmnL2L-Xtt0A6aebbYBPLp9mRu90sybCBin-JSYMtL7HmmC6iYWvioEq9mbLFpJxn7qRmKsodwhX6rQsXYD2bnZHsN_5AMGIrHtmVglC3p12sy0eEDqg8p/s320/mare_watermelon_feta_and_arugula_salad_with_balsamic_glaze_v.jpg" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Watermelon, Feta, and Arugula Salad</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">with Balsamic Glaze</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">from </span>Bon Appétit</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">
</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I feel like I should also put a summer to-do list in writing so that I can be held accountable for my grand plans. Otherwise, it seems summer always slips through my grasp, and it's Labor Day weekend before I know it. So--in no particular order--here are 10 things I hope to accomplish before the clock chimes Labor Day, and the fashion laws force me to stop wearing white:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-Reread <i>The Great Gatsby </i>(my favorite summer book)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-Finally complete Harper's baby book (she is going on 2, after all)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Make s'mores around an outdoor fire</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-Redo my bedroom decor</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-Explore a New England beach I haven't been to before</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-Finally have a picnic with my amazing cousin before she moves </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-Go for long summer walks (a favorite pastime)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Do more yoga</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-Eat fiddleheads while they're in season</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-Plan my perfect 30th birthday in the absence of Chanel (tick tock!)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And on that note, it only feels right to greet summer with F. Scott Fitzgerald:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees--just as things grow in fast movies--I had the familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Happy summer!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-79897441946376749612013-06-16T19:38:00.001-04:002013-06-16T20:38:51.921-04:00Daddy's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQh2GaXQe2vmdUNUKEmXaRO6JbkLCkXkfYgJlcTXSOVVZ-5O2WKc7KDQLNG-Lah8MBX4BWQELxiNi4VGZBXNTuCKGtpmOvp5ltbISJuS_lLPdaPMs-7mM9e3vrcm-zpNAqVSgf6FPi/s1600/Daddy+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQh2GaXQe2vmdUNUKEmXaRO6JbkLCkXkfYgJlcTXSOVVZ-5O2WKc7KDQLNG-Lah8MBX4BWQELxiNi4VGZBXNTuCKGtpmOvp5ltbISJuS_lLPdaPMs-7mM9e3vrcm-zpNAqVSgf6FPi/s320/Daddy+014.jpg" width="106" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Today is Father's Day. Probably like many of you out there who have lost your father, this day is a bittersweet one for me. On the bitter side, of course, is that I am reminded of how much I miss my beloved Daddy. But there's more sweet than bitter; I love the opportunity to remember my amazing daddy and, what's more, to celebrate my husband, who is an incredible father. In honor of two of my favorites, here are some of ways our family is celebrating today:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Cool cards, like <a href="https://www.etsy.com/transaction/133640665?ref=fb2_tnx_title">this one</a> that we sent to Dallin's dad earlier this week. I know we live in the age of Skype and Snapchat, but one thing I learned from my father was how to write a real letter. And nothing beats the perfect card, especially when it is indeed for one very cool pop.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhK6YppUTiE1SvcbBviNlv7vonM9a3nBpxPWNoR0ZpGQNJDOSNaHjLGfHBx_84ALkpPB9f9hx8KK2lBA-TZEPuCP66uV-lcSGtQUSAQtUIzHK2aF6sFeuW3W5HH0JZ-haRpwfpbM1/s1600/etsycard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhK6YppUTiE1SvcbBviNlv7vonM9a3nBpxPWNoR0ZpGQNJDOSNaHjLGfHBx_84ALkpPB9f9hx8KK2lBA-TZEPuCP66uV-lcSGtQUSAQtUIzHK2aF6sFeuW3W5HH0JZ-haRpwfpbM1/s320/etsycard.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Card by Hearts Grow Fonder<br />Available on Etsy</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"From mail room to board room," as my dad would always say. Here is the tie that my little H made for her Daddy at church today. Very chic. She has also been modeling it for him this afternoon. I'm not sure who it looks better on.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYYeKTBmBaIzgI6m4wg3N1yX4yYNSGAYNphfVM2bRJTFyMI22vi_fBQyIX2mSSkJT-DmOmDFlDhhrzMGKP-ugPxgthQa6jLenWK3LckWctPcKwrIdfLXzoqLu7vvc5NGz3-YSYZx1K/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYYeKTBmBaIzgI6m4wg3N1yX4yYNSGAYNphfVM2bRJTFyMI22vi_fBQyIX2mSSkJT-DmOmDFlDhhrzMGKP-ugPxgthQa6jLenWK3LckWctPcKwrIdfLXzoqLu7vvc5NGz3-YSYZx1K/s320/photo+(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Old photos. A daddy/daughter nap, circa 1983, loving every minute of an afternoon snuggle. My Daddy was a man of few words; he didn't say much unless he really had something to say, so I learned to appreciate moments of silence shared in complete comfort. Like when we drove across country together to bring my old Volvo out to LA when I was in college; we listened to a LOT of CDs and shared time together I will always treasure.</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCUo5zU8o_LKbIMRufHNMmP8I9XwRp7ddEkDIL1fq3jgMLVWUOvawCXlexj_v-gDYL_zohhzkZdaA4Qvl8JdOrHzVbRZL2Jn-UdtV7mLvQB8fLVcpA5IxJ6rXtR1VUwQ1E_u-ufxOg/s1600/Daddy+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCUo5zU8o_LKbIMRufHNMmP8I9XwRp7ddEkDIL1fq3jgMLVWUOvawCXlexj_v-gDYL_zohhzkZdaA4Qvl8JdOrHzVbRZL2Jn-UdtV7mLvQB8fLVcpA5IxJ6rXtR1VUwQ1E_u-ufxOg/s320/Daddy+017.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">New photos. I love that Harper is Daddy's girl; after all, it takes one to know one. Here is Harper, with Dallin, after a visit to the doctor's and in desperate need of some Daddy love. It's cool, I totally get it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifegqr7z6P_QhYRNTEbyRGCXuoEaMj9sbfspjYpSw4hyphenhyphenWufphNKSNpAiLvln-9fnB_QZTW2mtIc4MDjJuVQf7P1HznZ-RQWU_K0pxBP7QVyK7uB-5DgNyyHV6ufVOuYqEBmR8TUVaw/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifegqr7z6P_QhYRNTEbyRGCXuoEaMj9sbfspjYpSw4hyphenhyphenWufphNKSNpAiLvln-9fnB_QZTW2mtIc4MDjJuVQf7P1HznZ-RQWU_K0pxBP7QVyK7uB-5DgNyyHV6ufVOuYqEBmR8TUVaw/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Red velvet whoopie pies: my attempt at making Dallin a Father's Day treat. I say <i>attempt</i> because there are a few things that I learned in the process... As it turns out, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I should read directions before starting a baking project to make sure I have all the ingredients and tools necessary. For instance, o</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">ne needs a whoopie pie pan when making whoopie pies. I</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">n the absence of said whoopie pie pan, a muffin tin will work--but maybe not quite as well. Fortunately, Instagram (what one of my besties calls "the beer goggles of life") makes everything look prettier. Here's to hoping they taste good too!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0V05gJPpK4uin_0bDVNR3EtlV3R67TbrmQtJI4wIQGzDxPxay_DofxueJfNr_ueT4nL_ny9oMF2mvTgLICOvhX5qjEgEhEpey0YJXkB3B5VDlFpKaNtNQj2aaJngGdLlmnPUSFyzn/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0V05gJPpK4uin_0bDVNR3EtlV3R67TbrmQtJI4wIQGzDxPxay_DofxueJfNr_ueT4nL_ny9oMF2mvTgLICOvhX5qjEgEhEpey0YJXkB3B5VDlFpKaNtNQj2aaJngGdLlmnPUSFyzn/s320/photo+(1).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Found notes, like this one from my Daddy. He wrote this to me after he was diagnosed with lung cancer and was going through chemo and radiation. Despite the physical toll this process was taking on his body, he found the time to sketch out designs with me--cupcakes, ice cream cones, candy... All the sweet things that inspired my </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lollybrand" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">lolly.brand line</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. I am grateful to fathers like mine, who inspire their children to dream. There are so many ways that he lives on.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjz0B_4IBtetlLkklfgRA9QA_Wh41k2BWk_z8qB4UC_kboHyeHkM0iGLdlAVxallccNzG2ul-op60xwP1qSeJH0ljHUWml0aNN8y8R0xVJi8B8tOejs1VcbEbIFGAqR8kFUfvLNYOi/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjz0B_4IBtetlLkklfgRA9QA_Wh41k2BWk_z8qB4UC_kboHyeHkM0iGLdlAVxallccNzG2ul-op60xwP1qSeJH0ljHUWml0aNN8y8R0xVJi8B8tOejs1VcbEbIFGAqR8kFUfvLNYOi/s320/photo+(1).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">On Facebook today, there were countless pictures fathers, as well as status updates paying tribute. I have to admit, it made me a little sad, wistful perhaps, I wasn't celebrating with my own father. But a while ago, I decided that I would do my best to celebrate my father's life, rather than to mourn his passing. This day, I have done just that, showing gratitude to the fathers in my life and appreciation for the examples that they are to their children. I am blessed to know some seriously amazing guys. And speaking of which, Dallin enjoyed his red velvet whoopie pie, and Harper did too. Like father, like daughter... And so it goes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_0CKxxKAixeXuG7lqVM0wT9Ydd4wPo-nuY9YoYWXbdiub-uqRPzSNS-UDkoKtQTZiSb8wAhUd6oTHuMqSehGfQpV-NR83vTp8CD8UxnrBwQbR7Oecy8ZuIHLIiE5c2VMoxuTqSt1/s1600/Daddy+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_0CKxxKAixeXuG7lqVM0wT9Ydd4wPo-nuY9YoYWXbdiub-uqRPzSNS-UDkoKtQTZiSb8wAhUd6oTHuMqSehGfQpV-NR83vTp8CD8UxnrBwQbR7Oecy8ZuIHLIiE5c2VMoxuTqSt1/s320/Daddy+021.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-67027390769805965432013-06-10T22:56:00.004-04:002013-06-15T22:24:48.272-04:00The Dotted i<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKNXUrMjnlAarJc73ehc8xYt5bEzWZ2BXsGJSANL2lqEw_Ss535BjbOZtXqL7fBsgdVz6UHMOavziimrblmP913p-l5Z3gQn5dVGqDTurDcjtqd8BKBYI-nwEeFlN2ka6jXssvMqAX/s1600/8219_147463758186_6267713_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKNXUrMjnlAarJc73ehc8xYt5bEzWZ2BXsGJSANL2lqEw_Ss535BjbOZtXqL7fBsgdVz6UHMOavziimrblmP913p-l5Z3gQn5dVGqDTurDcjtqd8BKBYI-nwEeFlN2ka6jXssvMqAX/s320/8219_147463758186_6267713_n.jpg" width="255" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhgH5Sh3o0iVlugsrKWbiMqpDZmc5KJsBJb8GahYVZUS708dRuI-iOcHzk3cadO9CWlNhBlaDSSEEcCtCJ75IYKEKaLJn1JL25qpeuLwDhRhHFGjcGxZwu9JEzr4LjdbEfKfGdCetu/s1600/534956_10150803725613187_1709674131_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhgH5Sh3o0iVlugsrKWbiMqpDZmc5KJsBJb8GahYVZUS708dRuI-iOcHzk3cadO9CWlNhBlaDSSEEcCtCJ75IYKEKaLJn1JL25qpeuLwDhRhHFGjcGxZwu9JEzr4LjdbEfKfGdCetu/s200/534956_10150803725613187_1709674131_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This past Saturday, not only did the forecast turn from rain to sun, but I had the chance for a little "me" time to accomplish some of the fun items on my to-do list! Love it. I found myself in Concord Center, one of my favorite places and the most quintessential New England town you could imagine (seriously, I had to refrain just now from putting an <i>e </i>on town). I have passed The Dotted i on many occasions, but as I typically have my baby girlfriend in tow, I've refrained from checking it out; after all, pre-toddlers and packed little stationery shops aren't exactly a match made in heaven. But since I was flying solo, I couldn't resist. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Dotted i is the sweetest little paper boutique and now also my new favorite place. It is packed with endless opportunities to add your monogram to just about anything: bags, tumblers, necklaces--oh my! Plus, an array of perfect, preppy stationery and the ability to place custom orders. Talk about crossing your Ts and dotting your Is.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">While I stopped in to purchase a graduation card, these two must-haves from The Dotted i are now on my to-buy list: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This Kate Spade post-it note set. The three neon colored pads aptly read: Things to Do, Places to Go, and People to See. Because whose desk organization wouldn't benefit from clever catchphrases in equally catchy neon?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkf5zDi1s8h45kg1NfwtSKx2WqsZwSdBCUo1zXPm2ZrKzTplNJqYLDKvJv4zIX_HUWCd4_aL_NxgNL20-7W89rCBVW-2KBjrpwiCxoX9X9IeSb-gpNgkug8-igA_nuCmydLkMju1oB/s1600/katespadenotes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkf5zDi1s8h45kg1NfwtSKx2WqsZwSdBCUo1zXPm2ZrKzTplNJqYLDKvJv4zIX_HUWCd4_aL_NxgNL20-7W89rCBVW-2KBjrpwiCxoX9X9IeSb-gpNgkug8-igA_nuCmydLkMju1oB/s320/katespadenotes.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">People, Places, Things Sticky Pad Set, $25<br />by Kate Spade New York<br />Available at The Dotted i</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Also, I'm obsessing over The Dotted i's amazing custom monogram necklaces. In case you are thinking that all monogrammed jewelry is created equal, this is much, much more. The monogram is done in acrylic, and you can choose your color from one of a rainbow assortment. Then it sits on a delicate little gold chain. The price-tag pushes it towards "splurge," but if I've ever seen a splurge-worthy monogram necklace, this is totally it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSRjk4E3i7YsrwAf0d8svbtC2Fm9Nc0jgkBdMgVmrSEJirkXAIt7aXcJlQ9by3Hg6ScADBY9f85qG4CLUHveb3VgVL7nXsCQoZcSqGC86YMQ-fGaTCa11fePednVbixOEvqwtPsdZ/s1600/Moon-and-Lola-Large-Acrylic-Block-Monogram-Pendant-Necklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSRjk4E3i7YsrwAf0d8svbtC2Fm9Nc0jgkBdMgVmrSEJirkXAIt7aXcJlQ9by3Hg6ScADBY9f85qG4CLUHveb3VgVL7nXsCQoZcSqGC86YMQ-fGaTCa11fePednVbixOEvqwtPsdZ/s320/Moon-and-Lola-Large-Acrylic-Block-Monogram-Pendant-Necklace.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Acrylic Block Monogram Necklace, $78<br />by Moon and Lola<br />Available at The Dotted i</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">After my successful shopping mission, I picked up milkshakes at one of our favorite ice cream shops and another Concord gem, Bedford Farms, to take home for Dallin and Harper. Chalk it up to the obsessive compulsive within, but few things give me more satisfaction than checking items off my to-do list. Especially when there is shopping involved, and the day ends in ice cream. Done and done. </span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-36908641000720143352013-06-04T21:59:00.000-04:002013-06-04T22:05:07.803-04:00Summer Things<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With Memorial Day weekend come and gone and Boston temperatures over 90 degrees for three consecutive days this past week, I think it's fair to say that summer is here. Some years, I feel like summer comes and goes without me having the chance to acknowledge or even properly appreciate it. I resolve that this year will be different. I have grand plans for beach days, delicious summer menus on the grill, and summer fashions. Here are 5 of the things that I'm already excited about:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAsSW4QphefxweU1vbgjAz_DUYgx8rHqE7FNlGxFKqkr0i4xtLQLLreaEveasGf4pmppbzD1UMtXi7GLkyD_-g-HSTTn4yBAmrJRMd2R7Lo1w5Ajj1sHXDzxJuwImks8EjzVXjGWHC/s1600/DeborahLippmannCandyShop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAsSW4QphefxweU1vbgjAz_DUYgx8rHqE7FNlGxFKqkr0i4xtLQLLreaEveasGf4pmppbzD1UMtXi7GLkyD_-g-HSTTn4yBAmrJRMd2R7Lo1w5Ajj1sHXDzxJuwImks8EjzVXjGWHC/s400/DeborahLippmannCandyShop.jpg" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Glitter Nail Color<br />in Candy Shop, $19<br />by Deborah Lippmann<br />Available at Nordstrom</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Nail care is a crucial part of the summer, and today I finally had the opportunity to get a much-needed mani/pedi</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. Now I'm feeling far more summer-ready. And speaking of summer nails, while I don't yet have <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/deborah-lippmann-glitter-nail-color/3066339?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=4444&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-1_13_A">this amazing nail lacquer from Deborah Lippmann</a> in my collection, I'll stress the </span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">yet</i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> because I'm thinking it is a must. Growing up, I was obsessed with the game Candy Land, particularly with the character Queen Frostine who I felt was my game character doppelganger. This polish is like Candy Land for grown-ups, a light pink with candy colored glitter flecks throughout. Let's be real, this is a party for your nails, and after finally seeing <i>The Great Gatsby </i>this weekend, I am ready for parties AND glitter.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgycHhCy8aB5-FR6yK8G4L3YP-Xb0AjtMOMImeU2cB1y97iAtFUocXRntSylQepxfTsNPKRfLLs6-pJOOzJ8R9-alpA9CWY5MyLHRhdHom1uCx-2_5IbNxKwBIUdKgpbb4b_im0c5R5/s1600/WilliamsSonoma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgycHhCy8aB5-FR6yK8G4L3YP-Xb0AjtMOMImeU2cB1y97iAtFUocXRntSylQepxfTsNPKRfLLs6-pJOOzJ8R9-alpA9CWY5MyLHRhdHom1uCx-2_5IbNxKwBIUdKgpbb4b_im0c5R5/s320/WilliamsSonoma.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Peach Bruschetta with Ricotta and Prosciutto<br />Recipe thanks to Williams-Sonoma</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When I look at the Williams-Sonoma catalog, I genuinely want to be more domestic. Of course, life always seems to get in the way, and we wind up eating quesadillas or cereal most nights. Summer resolution? I will make this <a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/recipe/peach-bruschetta-with-prosciutto.html">peach bruschetta with ricotta and prosciutto</a>. According to WS, it involves 15 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cook-time. Now that is a timeline I can commit to! Plus, doesn't this picture make you want it to eat it, like NOW? Here's the recipe so you can:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />Ingredients:<br />1/3 cup balsamic vinegar<br />4 slices country-style bread, each about 1/2 inch thick<br />1/3 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling<br />2 large peaches, pitted and each cut into 12 slices<br />6 Tbs. ricotta cheese, lightly seasoned with kosher salt<br />3 oz. thinly sliced prosciutto<br />1 1/2 oz. arugula<br />Maldon sea salt for sprinkling</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Directions:<br />-In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring the vinegar to a simmer and simmer until reduced by half, 3 to 4 minutes. Let cool.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;">-Preheat a panini press on the “sear” setting according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Generously brush both sides of the bread slices with the 1/3 cup olive oil. Working in 2 batches, place the bread on the panini press, close the lid and lock the top of the press so the bread is not being compressed. Cook until browned on both sides, 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;">-Working in 2 batches, arrange the peach slices on the panini press, close the lid and cook until the peaches are nicely marked on both sides, about 2 minutes.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;">-Spread 1 1/2 Tbs. cheese on each bread slice. Drape the prosciutto on top, dividing evenly, and top with the peach slices. Put the arugula in a small bowl and lightly drizzle with olive oil. Top the bruschetta with the arugula. Drizzle with the reduced vinegar and sprinkle with Maldon sea salt. Serve immediately. Serves 4.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_qVf-yu9Igb85lyHa7dDto4QNEN50CwQY4EqN8TqYaT4pfEV9jVQu5etukyC9TjJf6KGGR9uQRvH3A1WmQmS0Ix3ZC1HhX5kkGaxSyzMcnYvopLQd5b1zPMfYSUK7VFYACTZwqnRb/s1600/mommyandharper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_qVf-yu9Igb85lyHa7dDto4QNEN50CwQY4EqN8TqYaT4pfEV9jVQu5etukyC9TjJf6KGGR9uQRvH3A1WmQmS0Ix3ZC1HhX5kkGaxSyzMcnYvopLQd5b1zPMfYSUK7VFYACTZwqnRb/s320/mommyandharper.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Lounging poolside with my girl</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Lounging poolside. Okay, for us, that means Harper's little pool in our backyard. On Friday afternoon (day 2 of aforementioned 90 degree temperatures), like most Bostonians, I was beyond hot. Not even day 2 of ice cream treats offered sufficient cooling, and that's when you know you're in trouble. So we decided it was time to break ground on our swimming pool--and obviously we went with the top-of-the-line kidney-shaped pool! That's just how we roll in the Wilson family. Seriously, sitting inside that tiny pool with my sweet girl was exactly what I needed. I have a feeling it was perhaps the best summer investment ever made. Oh, and Harper's watering can to go with it, of course.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsnRP3Ph09_uR85T9GDGcJrRpQg8M8i7TzJLxrjn4Vb1O-pjSOSHhgPppotpD_W5zKTSnAlWalodfzOCjx6Ya-C8Nr2KlOS_9e2OCsu-nE9UhVG8yIow08Qjq5svmpFaXIJkFk10Gx/s1600/dvfforgap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsnRP3Ph09_uR85T9GDGcJrRpQg8M8i7TzJLxrjn4Vb1O-pjSOSHhgPppotpD_W5zKTSnAlWalodfzOCjx6Ya-C8Nr2KlOS_9e2OCsu-nE9UhVG8yIow08Qjq5svmpFaXIJkFk10Gx/s320/dvfforgap.jpg" width="310" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwp5uHX85TUzGItUPbx1BLhlIHtR2X35CDLFM9ilBnPdjTK1VLQQVEdt5yr6W9BcTrbA9M0IPbDDO5rDqqBSCkdQtSmVLkRe8GtWmwhQwbUN5qN5hEmiv2MBjHhV6XjhNH8uSl0QZH/s1600/dvfdress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwp5uHX85TUzGItUPbx1BLhlIHtR2X35CDLFM9ilBnPdjTK1VLQQVEdt5yr6W9BcTrbA9M0IPbDDO5rDqqBSCkdQtSmVLkRe8GtWmwhQwbUN5qN5hEmiv2MBjHhV6XjhNH8uSl0QZH/s200/dvfdress.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Printed Tee-Shirt Dress<br />in Egyptian Turquoise, $35<br />by Diane von Furstenberg for babyGap</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Wishes really do come true! One of my favorite fashion icons, Diane von Furstenberg, did another limited collection for babyGap and Gap Kids this year. Her Explorers Collection features graphic prints in bright, cheerful colors that are fun and youthful. Obvi, I couldn't resist getting something for little H. It was hard to pick just one, but Harper just had to have <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=94065&vid=1&pid=425146032">this printed tee-shirt dress</a>. Is it wrong to want one in my size too?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Lululemon hits the tennis court! Until today I had NO idea that Lulu did tennis wear. Fortunately, my super stylish friend, Aimee, filled me in--and how cute is this </span><a href="http://shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/women-skirts-and-dresses/Hot-Hitter-Dress?cc=6711&skuId=3500440&catId=women-skirts-and-dresses" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hot Hitter Dress</a>?!<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I played tennis during my middle school years but haven't been on the tennis court since, and lately I have really been wanting to get back to it. What appeals to me about tennis is that it is a sport you can play forever. My grandmother played until she was in her late 70s; how great is that? Of course, the fashion doesn't hurt either; who doesn't love tennis whites? Especially from Lulu, with irresistible design coupled with amazing moisture-wicking, breathable fabric. Now, to get back on the court... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_pPfRTrQq6RIqkYXk8JBboe3mD8NZLB5vhrhBGTVKrZEbMOf16RLQ0MbVjGjBXliyJ69FxmZMbNGqlP5q5_pXsEEcXzOwOaKA2i7CrDtRaiVJXEJlG2bTeC61E1dJX_LbphIVSq-/s1600/LW8349S_6711_1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_pPfRTrQq6RIqkYXk8JBboe3mD8NZLB5vhrhBGTVKrZEbMOf16RLQ0MbVjGjBXliyJ69FxmZMbNGqlP5q5_pXsEEcXzOwOaKA2i7CrDtRaiVJXEJlG2bTeC61E1dJX_LbphIVSq-/s400/LW8349S_6711_1.jpeg" width="321" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hot Hitter Dress in Aquamarine/White, $98<br />by Lululemon</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The first official day of summer isn't until June 21, but it feels like summer is already upon us. With my newly painted nails and fashion and culinary inspiration, now all I need is a tan! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
</div>
</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-72559930033219713092013-05-19T10:39:00.000-04:002013-05-19T10:39:38.386-04:00I Party With Jay Gatsby<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Since I first read it during my formative years, F. Scott Fitzgerald's <i>The Great Gatsby </i>has been my favorite book of all time. I have read and re-read it countless times since, highlighting poignant and meaningful passages, and it seems to only get better with each read. That, I feel, is the mark of a truly good story. Of course, I have also seen the 1974 movie adaptation with Robert Redford and Mia Farrow. And now, as of two Fridays ago, Baz Luhrmann's version, starring Leonardo DeCaprio and Carey Mulligan, is a contender. Unfortunately, haven't had the opportunity to see it--yet! But I will--and I couldn't be more excited to discover how this version stacks up to the absolute perfection that is the story of Nick, Daisy, and Gatsby. In the meantime, I'm partying with Jay Gatsby from the sidelines...and here are my inspirations:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>He smiled understandingly--much more than understandingly. It was one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in life. It faced--or seemed to face--the whole external world for an instant, and then concentrated on </i>you<i> with an irresistible prejudice in your favor. It understood you just so far as you wanted to be understood, believed in you as you would like to believe in yourself and assured you that it had precisely the impression of you that, at your best, you hoped to convey. Precisely at that point it vanished--</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One of the most stunning examples of literature come to life, the iconic Tiffany & Co. created Jazz Age Glamour, a collection of jewelry for the Gatsby film. As a celebration of the 1920s, featuring amazing diamond necklaces and bracelets, looping strands of pearls, and ornate headpieces, "<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">The collection captures [Fitzgerald's] characters’ privileged lives with modern versions of their Tiffany jewels that glittered through posh parties and summer soirées at grand estates, fueled by jazz and bubbling champagne.</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"> " This dazzling Corsage Necklace (not to mention its price tag) take my breath away.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuM75sFfbbXQeFR6AmS_t-HVAne_ziXiSKYsNJ2lFF_-3c817zz69bdS-WVL1lZ09lF3iH9BwFqBpRE1-4Zsq1ze92Bbaon1m6Hrj8bWRcSTSp15yMGMqosIWFj_cPUhRJFXI3LQwj/s1600/tiffanyandcocorsagenecklace.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuM75sFfbbXQeFR6AmS_t-HVAne_ziXiSKYsNJ2lFF_-3c817zz69bdS-WVL1lZ09lF3iH9BwFqBpRE1-4Zsq1ze92Bbaon1m6Hrj8bWRcSTSp15yMGMqosIWFj_cPUhRJFXI3LQwj/s320/tiffanyandcocorsagenecklace.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://www.tiffany.com/Shopping/Item.aspx?fromGrid=1&sku=29893586&mcat=148206&cid=2605758&search_params=s+5-p+5-c+2605758-r+-x+-n+6-ri+-ni+0-t+">Corsage Necklace</a>, $485,000<br />from the Jazz Age Glamour Collection<br />by Tiffany & Co.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>I like large parties. They're so intimate. At small parties there isn't any privacy.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I can't take credit for discovering this tank; the lovely Megan shared her fabulous Etsy discovery with me, and I have been obsessing ever since. While it seemed that no one who came to Gatsby's parties was actually invited, aside from perhaps Nick and Daisy, I wouldn't mind being a Gatsby party-crasher. The Spring House on Block Island is how I've always pictured Gatsby's house in my mind, but I have a feeling Baz Luhrmann has something a bit more elaborate in mind. I suppose I'll have to wait and see. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<br />
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGrCOn0YLzmj3QTyOtB9jUp9ycBi7OLQ9wMbNPfXxascSmUiz8BqLocjgLmDVPNculpzGP-w-rYYTnJO_XfdQ5jsx-rcKWjujwsqP6_tPRa5wB15kNF8YsYSfZ_85qtjH0cr3PgYyu/s1600/gatsby+tank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGrCOn0YLzmj3QTyOtB9jUp9ycBi7OLQ9wMbNPfXxascSmUiz8BqLocjgLmDVPNculpzGP-w-rYYTnJO_XfdQ5jsx-rcKWjujwsqP6_tPRa5wB15kNF8YsYSfZ_85qtjH0cr3PgYyu/s320/gatsby+tank.jpg" width="241" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/122077693/i-party-with-jay-gatsby-tank-great?ref=usr_faveitems">I Party With Jay Gatsby Tank</a></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, $28</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />by SilksAndScreens<br />Available on Etsy</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>"I wouldn't ask too much of her," I ventured. "You can't repeat the past."</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>"Can't repeat the past?" he cried incredulously. "Why of course you can!"</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>He looked around him wildly, as if the past were lurking here in the shadow of his house, just out of reach of his hand.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This Gatsby clutch is one of a zillion reasons why I love Kate Spade, for keeping geeky English majors like me on trend. I've had my eye on the Gatsby clutch for some time. Against the cheerful yellow, I love that the strand of pearls seems to represent the excess of the roaring twenties and the pool of black the dark subtext of the Gatsby tale--and all with an irresistible pinstripe lining that would have been right at home in West Egg.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYmM50onSb0dy5ukQiwNVJiLdf8n60fDyk6NwmrgWQJhPv0Z4mv0-GhvU2n-S-m567c5zLyEe_gc8JLEf_t1IpWzTGyRWe1oe_4bhi8xHxe22IODQwcbAx3QK0fn3ZnzO6htt74K2g/s1600/katespadeclutch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYmM50onSb0dy5ukQiwNVJiLdf8n60fDyk6NwmrgWQJhPv0Z4mv0-GhvU2n-S-m567c5zLyEe_gc8JLEf_t1IpWzTGyRWe1oe_4bhi8xHxe22IODQwcbAx3QK0fn3ZnzO6htt74K2g/s320/katespadeclutch.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://www.katespade.com/the-great-gatsby-book-clutch/WKRU1983,en_US,pd.html?dwvar_WKRU1983_color=700#start=1&cgid=ks-handbags-book-clutches">The Great Gatsby Book Clutch</a>, $265 (on sale)<br />by Kate Spade</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">No amount of fire or freshness can challenge what a man will store up in his ghostly heart.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As a teenager reading <i>The Great Gatsby</i>, I was always struck by Gatsby's seeming obsession with the past. During days when I was beginning to carve my own path, the story of Gatsby and Daisy--and the collateral damage left in their wake--was an almost cautionary tale to me, of lost love, regret, and broken dreams. All of that, of course,</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> wrapped in a shiny package of lavish parties, amazing clothing, and wealth beyond measure. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">To me, this tiny heart ring is a sweet symbol of what should have mattered most for Gatsby and Daisy, of what was ultimately lost.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4L577ixQsegJczpfqG73FYjYRj5CmEkT0Uc9yaAM125yl_jdwvCo_LsLp0mX5Qf_m73xvcx_sDAeGafcUrAokThlio__kbWYcffD-dE5FGaHp6P2ToJsRswjIyrO3j7aS8CWNKAG/s1600/heart+ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4L577ixQsegJczpfqG73FYjYRj5CmEkT0Uc9yaAM125yl_jdwvCo_LsLp0mX5Qf_m73xvcx_sDAeGafcUrAokThlio__kbWYcffD-dE5FGaHp6P2ToJsRswjIyrO3j7aS8CWNKAG/s320/heart+ring.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/jewelryaccessories-shopjewelry/24883241.jsp">Wee Heart Ring</a>, $78<br />from Anthropologie</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">He must have felt that he had lost the old, warm world, paid a high price for living too long with a single dream. He must have looked up at an unfamiliar sky through frightening leaves and shivered as he found what a grotesque thing a rose is and how raw the sunlight was upon the scarcely created grass. A new world, material without being real, where poor ghosts, breathing dreams like air, drifted fortuitously about...</i><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></i>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">When I spotted this print on Etsy, I was immediately sold. Representing wealth and recklessness, the image of Gatsby's car is printed, appropriately, in green over an actual page from <i>The Great Gatsby.</i> For me, Gatsby's "gorgeous car," an object of his material wealth and the source of coveting and admiration in the early Gatsby chapters, becomes sinister in the end--a physical harbinger of death, a vehicle (quite literally) of Gatsby's undoing. Admittedly, I am a bit obsessed with this story, but I truly love this print for its subtle loveliness and sadness.</span><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></i>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0w5Oo4VjC-O_WQVJ7ACojNNnzXvkLqB5NYMrV400xYVBWdwCkocktIXUATPTa9Jmop05y3Gr9TaEmzL9CebhbijRAB3AnDyQgH7z32hMFspvQMMy3i73h1FbwFH0ezesEZ2nFX2IL/s1600/rollsroyceprint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0w5Oo4VjC-O_WQVJ7ACojNNnzXvkLqB5NYMrV400xYVBWdwCkocktIXUATPTa9Jmop05y3Gr9TaEmzL9CebhbijRAB3AnDyQgH7z32hMFspvQMMy3i73h1FbwFH0ezesEZ2nFX2IL/s320/rollsroyceprint.jpg" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/107590198/great-gatsby-rolls-royce-print?ref=sr_gallery_15&ga_search_query=the+great+gatsby&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_page=3&ga_search_type=all&ga_facet=the+great+gatsby">Great Gatsby Rolls Royce Print</a>, $9.90<br />by Story304<br />Available on Etsy</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that's no matter--tomorrow we will run faster, stretch our arms farther... And one fine morning-- </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></i>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Green has long been my favorite color. I inherited my green eyes from my wonderful mother. For a little while, while I was growing up, I was slightly covetous of my brother and sister's bright blue eyes--until I learned in science class that green was the most rare... So, while I may not believe in the green light the way Gatsby did, I absolutely appreciate the symbolism of green in the story, as well as its glorious physical manifestations in the wide world of fashion, like this absolutely stunning trench from Burberry Prorsum. I mean, a green lace Burberry trench: need I say more, old sport?</span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></i>
<br />
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGCFrNycvemKzE12tq7PW8hKxgWCGNU3Qtac4iNxCGFkcBdxQhiCtExapWcq7fLaRfyZ1t9LDbFyomoQJ6dJosRjWPzT8f3riEHUbGQ5Fe4kONbcBfn0QV568xZBg1nmvOyyaf1Z7m/s1600/cb66590e755cefd7185af49c8a9bbb4075e5e67e.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGCFrNycvemKzE12tq7PW8hKxgWCGNU3Qtac4iNxCGFkcBdxQhiCtExapWcq7fLaRfyZ1t9LDbFyomoQJ6dJosRjWPzT8f3riEHUbGQ5Fe4kONbcBfn0QV568xZBg1nmvOyyaf1Z7m/s640/cb66590e755cefd7185af49c8a9bbb4075e5e67e.jpeg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://us.burberry.com/store/womenswear/trench-coats/prorsum/prod-44801011-kickback-lace-trench-coat/">Kickback Lace Trench Coat in kelly green</a>, $5,500<br />by Burberry Prorsum</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I've spoken several who have seen Baz Luhrmann's <i>Gatsby </i>so far, and people either love it or hate it. I sincerely hope that I am in the former camp, a failed movie adaptation is perhaps one of the biggest disappointments ever. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For me, I've never had issue with artist liberty and interpretation, provided that the integrity of the story and its themes remains. I suppose I'm just going to have to see for myself and report back!</span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </i></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Psst... <i>For more information about Tiffany & Co.'s Jazz Age Glamour collection, click <a href="http://press.tiffany.com/ViewBackgrounder.aspx?backgrounderId=43">here</a>.</i></span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-60954268776669562222013-04-20T13:58:00.000-04:002013-04-20T13:58:19.150-04:00Skirting the Issue<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I am totally obsessed with maxi skirts right now. I know it's not a new trend by any means, but as my life has become more chaotic, I have found myself gravitating towards more effortless styles. Translation: in a maxi skirt, I can bend over to pick up Harper--</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">or the pile of goldfish crackers she has dumped out onto the floor--</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">without a care in the world. Yet, in addition to being completely easy and versatile, I feel that the maxi skirt has an inherent elegance that the more popular minis or even midis simply lack. Here are a few of the maxis that I needwanthavetohave right now:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69eUiETi92cwRbPz3OtVIBDh33OIn5Tpnhm1SyxqTObvQim_k0-KCkuGsJiVR2OC3YATwJX6GtWi4q3_LztFEDsA8FvBpUMQ4gR48XIcGt0UjQVgYYgYaU1-FUVNjnj3pohs-8ZGY/s1600/AliceandOliviaSkirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69eUiETi92cwRbPz3OtVIBDh33OIn5Tpnhm1SyxqTObvQim_k0-KCkuGsJiVR2OC3YATwJX6GtWi4q3_LztFEDsA8FvBpUMQ4gR48XIcGt0UjQVgYYgYaU1-FUVNjnj3pohs-8ZGY/s320/AliceandOliviaSkirt.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Shannon Floral Maxi Skirt<br />by Alice + Olivia<br />Available at Neiman Marcus</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Unfortunately for me, I can't afford my taste--or the <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/p/Alice-Olivia-Vera-Crochet-Crop-Top-Shannon-Floral-Maxi-Skirt/prod157710064/?eVar4=You%20May%20Also%20Like%20RR">Shannon Floral Maxi Skirt by Alice + Olivia</a> that I have been coveting since I first laid eyes on it a month or so ago. The subtle floral print reminds me of a watercolor painting, and the pale yellows and greens are the perfect colors for spring and summer and can be easily matched. I can't even explain how much I need this skirt. So I am willing to patiently wait for a sale, or for someone with buyer's remorse to put one on Ebay in my size... Whichever comes first! Fingers crossed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tMi951AYAQCrZpB2xOOE0OBPWyFzrhRNJDUbJ51rv5Ds7lxjHcacF-Sf8SIr3YtYgCIr2z8o3YpWwio5qsAWHZPumRqIM5QH-t-288Vja8DPgv9Bj6KqHrah5_ex0uqSwjjC67BX/s1600/LillyPulitzerSkirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tMi951AYAQCrZpB2xOOE0OBPWyFzrhRNJDUbJ51rv5Ds7lxjHcacF-Sf8SIr3YtYgCIr2z8o3YpWwio5qsAWHZPumRqIM5QH-t-288Vja8DPgv9Bj6KqHrah5_ex0uqSwjjC67BX/s320/LillyPulitzerSkirt.jpg" width="199" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Canyon Skirt by Lilly Pulitzer</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I wasn't sure how I felt about the high-low hem at first, but I've given it some thought and really think it works. As a girl who loves shoes, it's a plus to be able to show off your footwear with a long-skirted look. Plus, it maintains the easy elegance of a classic maxi, with a bit of a fun twist. The <a href="http://www.lillypulitzer.com/product/Tops-Bottoms/Skirts/entity/pc/243/c/50/6016.uts?swatchName=Multi+Ice+Cream+Social">Canyon Skirt by Lilly Pulitzer</a> is my favorite high-low skirt to date, with its punchy, preppy pattern that's made in soft, beachy jersey. I think flip-flops are a must here.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUPQPu3pRu8CK7pufuzZD_4uzFQRx4453TxXUnObMab14VuDBvb1_kSF9KnS1lNSWhmf38gwaw0yjSuGydUoNNK0iIAX4n8c8kughVa2PBMrnd-Aeq6KyFuhsg5QVb0l1waIq6mYkR/s1600/FPSkirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUPQPu3pRu8CK7pufuzZD_4uzFQRx4453TxXUnObMab14VuDBvb1_kSF9KnS1lNSWhmf38gwaw0yjSuGydUoNNK0iIAX4n8c8kughVa2PBMrnd-Aeq6KyFuhsg5QVb0l1waIq6mYkR/s1600/FPSkirt.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">FP One Patchwork Maxi<br />by Free People</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I love the bohemian vibe of this <a href="http://www.freepeople.com/clothes-skirts/fp-one-patchwork-maxi/">Patchwork Maxi from Free People</a>. The cool blues and aquas remind of the ocean, and the contrasting patterns and textures all work together. Plus, each section has a raw, frayed edge that gives the skirt a casual, almost vintage feel. If only I had tickets to Coachella this year. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Clearly, I have my shopping list made!</span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-91559849974251486092013-04-18T14:16:00.001-04:002013-04-18T20:28:39.943-04:00Little Things To Love<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">When I decided that <i>She's Come Unheeled</i> would actually come unheeled last summer, I was excited for real life posts about my new adventures <i>avec mon bebe</i>. I mean, how Kourtney Kardashian totes her tot around in those Louboutins is beyond me! Not that I don't still love my Louboutins, but I am writing these long-overdue words from the comfort of my bare feet, which are also overdue--for a pedicure, that is. While some might interpret this as decidedly un-glamorous, I'm okay with that. For the past couple of months I have been happily enjoying the little things--and wanted to share five of my favorites:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHotWBlv7iHUHfJpHTSJe4c1o0-Uhv1LkqLVM-2-Ptn27S-fdmVSLWGySkqqutjNcmY50IljsKwwbg21tEek_XEVd3R3_pJ33GG5OewAAzCIf3Rp3Nu9VTdswp5p3osbK7VmLrb5Qz/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHotWBlv7iHUHfJpHTSJe4c1o0-Uhv1LkqLVM-2-Ptn27S-fdmVSLWGySkqqutjNcmY50IljsKwwbg21tEek_XEVd3R3_pJ33GG5OewAAzCIf3Rp3Nu9VTdswp5p3osbK7VmLrb5Qz/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tea tastes better in a pretty little teacup!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tea party for one--and a sweet moment of silence to enjoy it. I am recovering from my addiction to Tazo Refresh right now, a blend of peppermint, spearmint, and a teensy bit of tarragon. It tastes better in a pretty little teacup, like this one from my grandmother.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkwN0_GrV4NE9-uvRe4Q7mR-dRdom6lBqu4ai4LyIM7IDR-XWXxfsSA7p6m_wJ7KX7LwqGw2vECgjvaBwGfnASGA6bu0IRDCgX9XNG1F-7XRV-6jw6jluzOpOsBTj7fCAfTzcS9J0m/s1600/LTW+&+Leonora.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkwN0_GrV4NE9-uvRe4Q7mR-dRdom6lBqu4ai4LyIM7IDR-XWXxfsSA7p6m_wJ7KX7LwqGw2vECgjvaBwGfnASGA6bu0IRDCgX9XNG1F-7XRV-6jw6jluzOpOsBTj7fCAfTzcS9J0m/s320/LTW+&+Leonora.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Lolly and Leonora</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Found photos. My grandmother sent this to me last month, an old photo she found in her desk. The cool kid in the oversized bow is me, posing with my great grandmother, Leonora. Clearly, we would have made quite the fashion-forward duo.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNsd0zR7IcnU_17-aBTvXA531gtQwbtGpjkjPWOXpJI4sxD8HpdDBV1pwcKSCall0fT1lkaT_BS4tF-v9OkF0o8AaHf1HqxuX39iLz9RAhtmFLpOffHAlHIkI9lstRZSZ7WKCfmrsq/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNsd0zR7IcnU_17-aBTvXA531gtQwbtGpjkjPWOXpJI4sxD8HpdDBV1pwcKSCall0fT1lkaT_BS4tF-v9OkF0o8AaHf1HqxuX39iLz9RAhtmFLpOffHAlHIkI9lstRZSZ7WKCfmrsq/s320/photo+(1).JPG" width="305" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A text convo with my beloved</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My husband, who doesn't fall for anything. But you can't blame a girl for trying, right? I mean, my birthday is coming up this summer so I was only trying to help him prepare.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qkbyCMzknblAmZBolUOIOKF3THBrYzfSnvwNqz8j5FVVPJR6WOgXdxsooh_9NQP8dcpjn8JaXYtZdLJqzaip-LfZqeNVV-KI059L5lvi4RYY19tA1EFldlXuIWQYnF0tC893FCG2/s1600/Tom+Ford+Alicia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qkbyCMzknblAmZBolUOIOKF3THBrYzfSnvwNqz8j5FVVPJR6WOgXdxsooh_9NQP8dcpjn8JaXYtZdLJqzaip-LfZqeNVV-KI059L5lvi4RYY19tA1EFldlXuIWQYnF0tC893FCG2/s320/Tom+Ford+Alicia.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Alicia by Tom Ford</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">New Sunglasses. I've been wearing my faithful Chloé sunglasses for about six years, which is fair, as sunglasses to me are an investment piece. Yet, lately I have been feeling that it's time for a change. While I have always believed that Jackie had it right with basic black, the time had come to go tortoise. I mean, he won the race, did he not? Jokes aside, tortoise is equally timeless, and I couldn't help but fall in love with the Alicia by Tom Ford. I recently learned that Tom Ford names his sunglasses for people that he admires. There is not a Laura--yet.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVEQNXR3sapbRnm7HEzILzTn87c-e60uLLHufGI0BBAkEfXdwNBCCXK0RDPyR6V2g1g7kPY0FmKJ0tH6tW3s8MHMcX_JeukIVOsyYlpvhBXDxVLDDep02ndH_cJpCUnyANWyjsAyW_/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVEQNXR3sapbRnm7HEzILzTn87c-e60uLLHufGI0BBAkEfXdwNBCCXK0RDPyR6V2g1g7kPY0FmKJ0tH6tW3s8MHMcX_JeukIVOsyYlpvhBXDxVLDDep02ndH_cJpCUnyANWyjsAyW_/s200/photo.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Leopard nails</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">New friends with crazy skills! Last Friday night, I had the opportunity to join some amazing ladies for fun conversation and amazing nail treatments. Pink leopard nails! How did I make it almost 30 years on this earth without it?</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Spring has arrived in Boston, and I am thankful for the arrival of warmer weather and time outdoors. And also spring fashion. If I don't see a puffy coat or a pair of Uggs until the fall, I will be a happy girl.</span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-55988845385149676992013-02-08T17:22:00.001-05:002013-02-22T11:58:02.786-05:00Cozying Up<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For those of you living under a rock (or not in the great state of Massachusetts), today's Boston weather forecast is for a blizzard that will go down in history. On the modest side, Boston will see 18 inches of snow... Worst case scenario is two feet or more, with hurricane winds. The snow started falling around 10:00 this morning, and all the milk was gone when Dallin, Harper, and I went to the supermarket for a few last minute groceries (including milk). But perhaps the worst evidence of snowstorm mania was when we went to the neighborhood bakery for donuts, and they were GONE--as in, no donuts whatsoever. Despite the sad lack of maple frosted donuts in my life, I'm actually enjoying this cozy day indoors with hot chocolate (we managed to find a gallon of organic whole milk hiding amongst the soy milk--sweet relief!), and my sweet little pre-toddler tearing things up. Cozy clothes are, of course, a necessity for this type of situation, which has got me thinking... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
I've been considering my off-duty wardrobe a lot lately. As I explained to my husband just the other day, when it comes to the workplace, I have pencil skirts and cute flats in spades, but I am at a total loss when it comes time for lounging at home or even running a quick errand. Maybe it is anxiety over my impending 30th, or perhaps I'm just bored, but lately I have been wondering if I'm getting too old for college hoodies, tall Uggs, and shapeless sweats? Don't get me wrong, these are things that I love, but I feel like it might be nice to add some more grown-up coziness into the mix.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />So, here are some of the things I would like to cozy up in today as we watch the snow fall outside:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCRxrVei46TT5QjTggWhvUFumxdtToaahnkglXfe-w4lu0i0dML5fOrWaKnCLMk3KYiDkeemj0w_4OD7Qo44AZdDPfkqHX7dbrcfZ7y5MNFGeg_edOdr1ZkW00LxhZ0i7b1COdBtgR/s1600/33274_KE8148_m.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCRxrVei46TT5QjTggWhvUFumxdtToaahnkglXfe-w4lu0i0dML5fOrWaKnCLMk3KYiDkeemj0w_4OD7Qo44AZdDPfkqHX7dbrcfZ7y5MNFGeg_edOdr1ZkW00LxhZ0i7b1COdBtgR/s320/33274_KE8148_m.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Dreamy Cotton Pant <br />in stripe vintage champagne, $49.50<br />by J. Crew</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />Along with brown hair and green eyes, I have inherited a love of patterns from my mother. And when it comes to lounge wear, I feel a pattern is far more interesting than your standard grey. I'm especially partial to stripes. At my former job, a coworker once made fun of me for wearing horizontal stripes; I was pregnant at the time, and I think he meant to suggest that stripes weren't exactly flattering (not that I'm holding a grudge). Personally, I find stripes lengthening, and I especially like to the Parisian vibe of this "vintage champagne" stripe. As an added bonus for tall girls like me, J. Crew's Dreamy Cotton Pant is also available in a tall inseam: yay for 35 inches!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2c-z1h9frPNQU32M6zZ-0gVAoLdi4UGZGIe1aN_Nt1LpZLiBkS4m1CnddRwlgcDt6czp4ELb2oRcG5k9F_YxKIKRsVnS738Ewg2c2dGxEe9rLMgmXuDDuz-WUMV1JfOGHeIQJbefn/s1600/theory+shirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2c-z1h9frPNQU32M6zZ-0gVAoLdi4UGZGIe1aN_Nt1LpZLiBkS4m1CnddRwlgcDt6czp4ELb2oRcG5k9F_YxKIKRsVnS738Ewg2c2dGxEe9rLMgmXuDDuz-WUMV1JfOGHeIQJbefn/s320/theory+shirt.jpg" width="255" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Levanoa Encase Tee <br />in heather grey, $66.50 by Theory</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I know, it seems a little ridiculous to suggest Theory when it comes to tee-shirts, but I fell in love with Theory tees after scooping up a few at the Theory outlet in Vermont a couple of years ago...and I've never looked back. The ultra soft feel and figure-flattering fit are unparalleled. I don't have this particular tee, but I'd like to. The longer fit and ruched sides do wonders for a silhouette. I like the heather grey too since, if you're coughing up this much cash for a basic tee (this is the sale price), you should be able to wear it with everything.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJJeiP3EIT-_W2NnaQpjuNTjBsFGJiT0Zu-zUb6HmdxAQgtxN9ga9pmWilZpemjlfvEJdcGQzE4Ma3MC8VSfgAtZSURynEVVL46w87GMsqtoV0FdRUx4x7B3qAUmzrxY_QDO5EKRz/s1600/JG007888_400_main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJJeiP3EIT-_W2NnaQpjuNTjBsFGJiT0Zu-zUb6HmdxAQgtxN9ga9pmWilZpemjlfvEJdcGQzE4Ma3MC8VSfgAtZSURynEVVL46w87GMsqtoV0FdRUx4x7B3qAUmzrxY_QDO5EKRz/s400/JG007888_400_main.jpg" width="318" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Modern Relaxed Velour Hoodie<br />in Tell Tale, $108 by Juicy Couture</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />I was so excited to see that Juicy has reinvented their classic track hoodie with a boxier cut and oversized hood. Finally, a hood that might actually fit on my head! I mean, do these teeny tiny hoods actually fit someone out there? They make me feel like a freak of nature. I also love the broken-in look of this slightly-lighter-than-navy blue. Cozy cozy that works all year round? Yes, please!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCt7PIdq2W_KKGHJm_ms-U8k9s2uYt8zYxJsmNeGliVACgiXm4h2P0OvBPUcgaL-BIl7-sCtJP3EFJTcP716vS_NPzd0rox3AsQYodx1HNAFtWO87F778syssj-C1LW7OcYPGVHHRd/s1600/_6537785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCt7PIdq2W_KKGHJm_ms-U8k9s2uYt8zYxJsmNeGliVACgiXm4h2P0OvBPUcgaL-BIl7-sCtJP3EFJTcP716vS_NPzd0rox3AsQYodx1HNAFtWO87F778syssj-C1LW7OcYPGVHHRd/s320/_6537785.jpg" width="208" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ansley Slipper in chestnut, $99.95<br />by UGG Australia</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
I love my classic tall Uggs, but lately I've been coveting these slippers. There is something more understated about the moccasin look, but they still pack all that amazing shearling coziness. I hope you don't take my earlier statement to mean that I'm abandoning the tall style; rather, I'm actually wearing them as I type these very words, but a girl needs options. And preferably shearling-lined options at that. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1G_oMWWFu3Cv2ImfubDJI1AjHL6QbYMr5WptLCRA5Gw_6VR5nQjavT-icHT4Bt9VYWy5JeOdalIMc6ZxL1YDWp7Zw_Lxav1SNvaUkNOw41tBByRbjvAOBomXa-tYwCiynnWF3aKP/s400/hat.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="266" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Mathilde Knit Hat in cream, $49.95<br />from Anthropologie</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1G_oMWWFu3Cv2ImfubDJI1AjHL6QbYMr5WptLCRA5Gw_6VR5nQjavT-icHT4Bt9VYWy5JeOdalIMc6ZxL1YDWp7Zw_Lxav1SNvaUkNOw41tBByRbjvAOBomXa-tYwCiynnWF3aKP/s1600/hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
Okay, I feel warm and cozy just looking at this hat. There's something about this creamy ivory color that always makes me think of winter in a dreamy and nostalgic sort of way. The oversized pompom and extra long ties that are youthful, fun, and apres-ski chic all in one. Yes, I do wear hats inside. Never sunglasses though (that is one of my number one pet peeves--and a fashion faux pas to boot).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf75bkWIde34JKwBN0-Iq1vXIxeJbEOdTJY_D59FubHkkvNJYSgZiUIAwUAVGOhu64svgmYJ9R9MXaSjj6Fw3Lfgrqo4Wu51Lw7nqdzFIkJ-59Cxrxskk-CUKoKhNt_1-nRA1H9SpH/s1600/legwarmers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf75bkWIde34JKwBN0-Iq1vXIxeJbEOdTJY_D59FubHkkvNJYSgZiUIAwUAVGOhu64svgmYJ9R9MXaSjj6Fw3Lfgrqo4Wu51Lw7nqdzFIkJ-59Cxrxskk-CUKoKhNt_1-nRA1H9SpH/s1600/legwarmers.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thigh Hi Loveland Legwarmer in navy, $38<br />by Free People</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
I know what you're thinking--legwarmers are so eighties--but I would argue that, when worn just right, they can be comfy, cozy, and even a bit fashionable. What makes this pair special is that they are graphically bold, but the red, navy, and grey color scheme is actually pretty versatile. Worn with leggings or my favorite Lulu Wonder Unders and the aforementioned classic tall Uggs, I'm thinking they might just help me get through a blizzard.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
And speaking of blizzards, our governor just declared a state of emergency, stating that no cars should be on the road after 4:00, or drivers run the risk--in addition to being careless and putting themselves and any passengers in danger--of a hefty fine. Looks like things are getting serious around here. And apparently, so is my off-duty wardrobe. Bundle up and stay safe, fashionista friends! </span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-10439749376751859662013-01-29T16:40:00.002-05:002013-02-22T11:58:16.170-05:00Heart This<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I love the nail color trend where just one nail is painted a different color from the rest. I find that my wedding ring finger is the ideal nail for this look; as the only finger that always has a ring on it, this inherently sets it apart from the rest, and the nail color variation plays on this. I have seen a lot of different color schemes that work, but I personally like one nail that really pops--like all pink with one gold, or all grey with one red. Go bold.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIk7pC-8wqurhnBdyUgKh-1ZYp-3vNIjGXYCQ8qdQBAkayEh90afWf4PQiF4qHXIVDyVcRw1LQoVtEEGhGHtvEhLL7EwKHdkUy8N3ScXdIcg2vC8gX7wwD3-MR6i0wu9uTN6OZqbrg/s1600/heart+nail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIk7pC-8wqurhnBdyUgKh-1ZYp-3vNIjGXYCQ8qdQBAkayEh90afWf4PQiF4qHXIVDyVcRw1LQoVtEEGhGHtvEhLL7EwKHdkUy8N3ScXdIcg2vC8gX7wwD3-MR6i0wu9uTN6OZqbrg/s200/heart+nail.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My Pin-spiration</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Then, while on Pinterest the other day (it's an addiction), I saw this clever variation on the trend, which is so timely with Valentine's Day just around the corner. The dusty rose color shown really doesn't work for me personally, but I think the concept is the cutest thing ever so obviously I had to try it out for myself. For my color palette, I went with my trusty <a href="http://www.chanel.com/en_US/fragrance-beauty/Makeup-Colour-LE-VERNIS-89314?sku=131014">Chanel Frenzy</a> for the base color, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/OPI-Nail-Lacquer-0-5-Fluid-Ounce/dp/B00421Z0ZS/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1359494501&sr=1-1&keywords=opi+red">OPI Red</a> for my heart, and a topcoat of <a href="http://www.essie.com/shop/good-to-go-RAPID-DRY-TOP-COAT-p-110.html">Essie Good to Go</a> for rapid drying. I heart this! Literally.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf9ohsMj70x-ohu_ZnfBYpE3OolFmAcSLXgfe5WH1xJrBAYfLEG-EMGcnfweI7XJJguEZAq8tCtWLq77gmcsdJezLo-I7FtKntcLupuJWi-VcLeC8iAOn_FQovCg9DDLPHgu1KfH7r/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf9ohsMj70x-ohu_ZnfBYpE3OolFmAcSLXgfe5WH1xJrBAYfLEG-EMGcnfweI7XJJguEZAq8tCtWLq77gmcsdJezLo-I7FtKntcLupuJWi-VcLeC8iAOn_FQovCg9DDLPHgu1KfH7r/s320/photo+(1).JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My version</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-83875370920611104862013-01-22T14:58:00.001-05:002013-02-22T11:59:26.218-05:00Thirteen Things for 2013<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Since my last post, summer turned to fall, which turned to winter...which turned to 2013. Yikes, how the time flies. So happy New Year to my long neglected but still greatly beloved friends at <i>She's Come Unheeled</i>! In honor of the New Year and new resolutions ("blog more" is obviously included on my list), I wanted to share thirteen things that I am already loving or want/need/havetohave in 2013.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgln1Md7ca2t4ON59t5MKjK94KRKt-fDhjm_RV9qtxPtO0TV51K1EzgYq58JIowCkMH_u5vbmcF8kwd_KVGEZNNCu-0ozLbQZAs-7BvxC1CdbOIptvHMViUXe3bwNrh7NRxkiNj6vsa/s1600/vinyasa+scarf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgln1Md7ca2t4ON59t5MKjK94KRKt-fDhjm_RV9qtxPtO0TV51K1EzgYq58JIowCkMH_u5vbmcF8kwd_KVGEZNNCu-0ozLbQZAs-7BvxC1CdbOIptvHMViUXe3bwNrh7NRxkiNj6vsa/s200/vinyasa+scarf.jpg" width="160" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vinyasa Scarf, $48<br />by Lululemon</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vinyasa Scarf: My amazing sister got me this scarf for Christmas, and it is pretty much the best thing ever. Its basic function is like an infinity scarf, but this one snaps together so it can essentially be worn in infinity different ways too! So far, I have only worn it in two ways: snood-style and hood. I was in Florida last month, and when the temperature dipped towards chilly, this scarf was my go-to accessory to stay warm. Plus, for you Lulu-addicts like me, this scarf is made with soft Rulu, Lulu's signature running luon fabric that's moisture-wicking and breathable so you won't overheat. In my humble opinion, this one is a wardrobe must.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgizEQ0YfUlqoIcGkwEA-xxDPfbqUtdLtW09HeQQ7xhoMSZgpgvS17Qyb88iGUYVFbuDgAwW0LH9VmLcPwmlHisLf7wh8EtKA5bC3PP_pYU0ds-6jiN3LNRIBKfw5S-n1UgYq94bNNF/s1600/lolly+in+scarf.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgizEQ0YfUlqoIcGkwEA-xxDPfbqUtdLtW09HeQQ7xhoMSZgpgvS17Qyb88iGUYVFbuDgAwW0LH9VmLcPwmlHisLf7wh8EtKA5bC3PP_pYU0ds-6jiN3LNRIBKfw5S-n1UgYq94bNNF/s400/lolly+in+scarf.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My Vinyasa Scarf in action on the Florida beach!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_oq9ybAx_yZZUN9CAUhuQbbavEV6m-2xMhHoZp62R5NU60O9X7Rk0sFIkIgS8GLHb9vRD4qQ32MjL2rCeTRzTHuew7z10wuZpri1enQ5drHodxlrPgoPuAYey9IgJIThPK4y40Lp/s1600/mascara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_oq9ybAx_yZZUN9CAUhuQbbavEV6m-2xMhHoZp62R5NU60O9X7Rk0sFIkIgS8GLHb9vRD4qQ32MjL2rCeTRzTHuew7z10wuZpri1enQ5drHodxlrPgoPuAYey9IgJIThPK4y40Lp/s200/mascara.jpg" width="130" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thickening Mascara, $30<br />by Trish McEvoy<br />Available at Nordstrom</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
Thickening Mascara: Trish McEvoy's new mascara is my new cosmetic obsession. It promises a "formal, false lash effect," a marketing sentiment that was pretty much guaranteed to reel me in (as my husband says, I'm a "marketer's dream"). Nevertheless, I've been using it for months now, and I completely love it. When I originally made my purchase, I was disappointed to learn that this mascara doesn't have the same <a href="http://shescomeunheeled.blogspot.com/2011/11/episode-11-best-mascara-ever.html">tubing effect</a> as Trish's other mascaras, which was one of the primary reasons I started using Trish mascara in the first place. However, the girl at the Trish counter at Nordstrom advised me to layer this one over my faithful Lash Curling mascara so that I could sort of cheat my way to the tubing effect I desired. Well, my Lash Curling recently ran out, and after a minor panic attack, I just forged ahead and used the Thickening Mascara by itself. I have to admit that it works a LOT better on its own! While no mascara on the planet is able to fully achieve the false-lash look, this one really does do a fabulous job of thickening and building my lashes to make them fan out and really pop. Every girl needs this.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0A1sUkCi_rP5cAC0Jv4o0TiTooC7ZyW7PEWXr10H6B1n_WW7NbAD6ON4OErWqEtu7KdxiBnc4imxng_4NRJIDaU15LOPvlqxs92FIgPVqaRkWNpbmDH_qjJrHkvM-cth_PIXpAeq/s1600/544015_4965956382280_1328269183_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0A1sUkCi_rP5cAC0Jv4o0TiTooC7ZyW7PEWXr10H6B1n_WW7NbAD6ON4OErWqEtu7KdxiBnc4imxng_4NRJIDaU15LOPvlqxs92FIgPVqaRkWNpbmDH_qjJrHkvM-cth_PIXpAeq/s320/544015_4965956382280_1328269183_n.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Harper's new pink TOMS</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
TOMS: It took me a while to jump on the TOMS bandwagon, but when my mother gave me a pair of <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/toms-classic-plaid-wool-slip-on/3420936?origin=PredictiveSearch&contextualcategoryid=60143106&fashionColor=&resultback=0">fuzzy-lined wool TOMS</a> for my birthday last summer, I was sold (see above sunset photo--I'm rocking my Vinyasa Scarf and my TOMS at the same time, holler!). The cozy lining helped me transition into the cooler fall months, and the TOMS style is both comfortable and versatile. Of course, their "One for One" mission (with every pair of shoes purchased, TOMS gives a new pair of shoes to a child in need) is amazing too and reason in itself to support TOMS. Then I also realized that they make BABY TOMS! They are basically the cutest footwear you will ever see, but I did have trouble committing to a purchase when Harper is at an age where she is growing out of her clothes faster than I can possibly keep up with. SO...you can imagine how thrilled I was to find a pair of pink baby TOMS at my local kids' consignment shop just this week, and (wonder of all wonders) they were actually in Harper's size. How can you not just melt when you see itty bitty TOMS? Really now.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_rJ-Rba0y2Z58UcErd9XjHSpEAt_nFNr7cYpisE4QfLRPliuZaU_Rig1cBA1JT3mlc0dvIcK9-_JDTo9tVKajDDZltUJN1O_sly_wXYnNnAnqD366JlRZpMPZJlInAwDXbVztbGgi/s1600/chanel+frenzy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_rJ-Rba0y2Z58UcErd9XjHSpEAt_nFNr7cYpisE4QfLRPliuZaU_Rig1cBA1JT3mlc0dvIcK9-_JDTo9tVKajDDZltUJN1O_sly_wXYnNnAnqD366JlRZpMPZJlInAwDXbVztbGgi/s200/chanel+frenzy.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Frenzy, $27<br />by Chanel</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Chanel Frenzy: Yes, while it's true that I am constantly in a state of Chanel frenzy, what I'm actually referring to Frenzy with a capital "F," from Chanel's Fall 2012 nail color line. My sister gave me a bottle for a hostess gift at Thanksgiving, and it instantly became my favorite neutral. Move over, Sand Tropez! While the <a href="http://shescomeunheeled.blogspot.com/2012/04/spring-break-for-your-nails.html">Essie color formerly occupied by number one spot</a>, Frenzy bumped it down a notch. The stony khaki color accomplishes a feat that every neutral should: it is visible yet nude. That is to say, this shade of smokey greyish beige (dare I say, greige?)packs enough punch that it doesn't wash you out, even in the doldrums of winter, but it also won't compete with other colors you might be wearing on a given day. As a neutral, I personally feel that it can be worn regardless of the season, and if you're going to shell out the big bucks for a Chanel polish, I think that is an important qualifier.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioQw6lmV7PBTDIyqBnuG7JWWlaYvym3wLORjh-5vHX_w8RHFiNlT_n7R9FfhqbJ4gs53k2w6lbEa3yHUxQ7FW8fYSCyRq0zeXXMnq5Zxih932-N8-HgjQ98G6TNRdoyzkG0IpkhrIy/s1600/reva+flat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioQw6lmV7PBTDIyqBnuG7JWWlaYvym3wLORjh-5vHX_w8RHFiNlT_n7R9FfhqbJ4gs53k2w6lbEa3yHUxQ7FW8fYSCyRq0zeXXMnq5Zxih932-N8-HgjQ98G6TNRdoyzkG0IpkhrIy/s200/reva+flat.jpg" width="175" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tumbled Leather Reva Ballet Flat<br />in party fuschia, $235<br />by Tory Burch</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Reva Flat: As I've already confessed, since having my baby, I have <i>Come Unheeled</i> in more ways than one. Most often, I mean this literally, as my heels have been sadly neglected for the last 14 months. It's basically an issue of practicality, since I find it easier to carry Harper and all her gear when I haven't added an extra four inches. I also took a new job last spring and spend a lot of my work day walking between buildings on an urban campus, which is also a lot easier to do in flats. All that being said, I have finally discovered for myself why Tory Burch's Reva Flat is so wildly popular. I could truly wear this shoe everyday. It is cute yet completely comfortable, not to mention Tory is always coming out with new, irresistible color options. On that note, I'm loving the Reva in party fuschia, a bold pink patent leather that is just perfect for spring. And also Valentine's Day (calling all cupids!).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ex-iaIXK10truR1nVCBqz6tF2IuXTIhAc22lleFssZIf8Id171yCoJr1WYg4t3tY8oi4nxqyM7JTpLjEje3sh-byoX3goZU4_rh_Ygl-4XDdBdmRUpnLtaETVbW7sQV4N84Ekb9u/s1600/louis+vuitton+delightful+gm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ex-iaIXK10truR1nVCBqz6tF2IuXTIhAc22lleFssZIf8Id171yCoJr1WYg4t3tY8oi4nxqyM7JTpLjEje3sh-byoX3goZU4_rh_Ygl-4XDdBdmRUpnLtaETVbW7sQV4N84Ekb9u/s320/louis+vuitton+delightful+gm.jpg" width="224" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Delightful GM, $1,340<br />by Louis Vuitton</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Louis: I am turning 30 this year (gasp!). For some time now, it has been my plan to own the Chanel Grand Shopper by the time I turned 30. In the event that it didn't happen, plan B was to <i>purchase</i> the Chanel Grand Shopper for myself on my 30th birthday. I mean, birthday at Chanel? That hardly sounds bad! Unfortunately, Chanel isn't exactly in the budget right now. Sigh. Still, I have my heart set on a fancy new bag for my fancy new decade... Fortunately, there is no shortage of gorgeous bags in the world, and that is precisely where Louis comes in. I discovered Louis Vuitton's Delightful GM a couple of years ago, and it definitely made an impression. First of all, it's HUGE. Forget Mary Poppins' bag, this one can fit way more stuff--and that's totally key for a girl on the go. Of course, the monogram canvas is classic, perhaps even a staple in the fashion community, but the I like the way the slouchy hobo style gives this particular bag a more relaxed vibe. The one tiny downside is that the Delightful GM isn't <a href="http://www.louisvuitton.com/front/#/eng_US/Collections/Women/Mon-Monogram/products/Neverfull-GM-Mon-Monogram-MONOGRAM-P00100">customizable with Louis' Mon Monogram Collection</a>, but that's so not a deal-breaker. With eight months to go until my big birthday, I'm now on the search for a fairy godmother, preferably one with an in at Louis Vuitton, but in the meantime, I'll have to start saving.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUfQ6hiaz4JMTNxlJj9rIEIxppM41dKdOASQfcLQqwIR7ASw63sSu6lL2G9kLpHXTrNJPNG8kWQPKsLJhBj75c2mqLr2EdCU8F25ne8DN3tlmqMSgJYR5FSqo_gPWsdgGyIWwutXa8/s1600/gold+sperry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUfQ6hiaz4JMTNxlJj9rIEIxppM41dKdOASQfcLQqwIR7ASw63sSu6lL2G9kLpHXTrNJPNG8kWQPKsLJhBj75c2mqLr2EdCU8F25ne8DN3tlmqMSgJYR5FSqo_gPWsdgGyIWwutXa8/s200/gold+sperry.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sperry Top Sider for J. Crew<br />in platinum gold, $98</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Gold Topsiders: I've been <a href="http://shescomeunheeled.blogspot.com/2010/05/on-top-sider.html">debating the purchase of gold Sperrys</a> for well over two years now. Clearly, I have problems with indecision, but when I received some J. Crew gift credit over the Christmas holiday, I knew the time to hesitate was through. I am happy to report that I'm now the proud owner of my very own shiny, metallic Sperrys. While I won't be able to wear them for several more months, in the meantime, they are sitting happily in my closet, just the golden beacon of light that I need to make it through the long, cold winter. Like I said, I'm turning 30 this year so I need to make it a golden one.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIqgjCKx0gIvAHsweql5k4ZwE32ZzYIomTKtXUUKlfiJg2FqsdI8sjKLft3-3iaRiL1m-8dZiVm8aNOQ2jlpxua-vuNZS-ssBIC5iKC3bdl5ECndwt87gMR6EuShcCom9ARI7_YDkV/s1600/kate+spade+yes+necklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIqgjCKx0gIvAHsweql5k4ZwE32ZzYIomTKtXUUKlfiJg2FqsdI8sjKLft3-3iaRiL1m-8dZiVm8aNOQ2jlpxua-vuNZS-ssBIC5iKC3bdl5ECndwt87gMR6EuShcCom9ARI7_YDkV/s200/kate+spade+yes+necklace.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Say Yes "Yes" Necklace, $78<br />by Kate Spade </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Kate Spade Wedding: My college bff is getting married this spring so I have lately been obsessing over Kate Spade's <a href="http://www.katespade.com/bridal-trousseau/wedding-belles,default,sc.html">Wedding Belles collection</a> with her mind. Whether for the bride, bridesmaids, or honeymoon, each item is pretty and timeless, with a little bit of whimsy. People say that a woman never looks more beautiful as the day she is married, and I love the way Kate Spade's collection celebrates this very idea of the bride as a beautiful wedding belle. With pure sentiments like this "Yes" necklace, sacred vows are honored in a fashionably sweet way. Yay for goin' to the chapel!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifne1PRiHeFMi21sSt9dm5e4Rcdyxl2QtYowcvo93uLcXrvk6XqpekHMAOdJVU_InDcfRT1oVEyEmT28o37lc8dk6mpSdqUT7X4slg5iQnEO_IA-BC19SNV-wZalz5V_u3Gxm605dX/s1600/marc+jacobs+polka+dot+jeans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifne1PRiHeFMi21sSt9dm5e4Rcdyxl2QtYowcvo93uLcXrvk6XqpekHMAOdJVU_InDcfRT1oVEyEmT28o37lc8dk6mpSdqUT7X4slg5iQnEO_IA-BC19SNV-wZalz5V_u3Gxm605dX/s200/marc+jacobs+polka+dot+jeans.jpg" width="157" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Rolled Slim in Lily Dot, $198<br />from Marc by Marc Jacobs<br />Available at Bloomingdales</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Polka Dot: I inherited my affinity for patterns and prints from my mother, who especially loves polka dots. Really though, who doesn't? So I was immediately attracted to these fun jeans from Marc by Marc Jacobs. Here, the inherent femininity of a pretty little polka dot is turned on its nose with fading and distressing. I love the resulting casual but girly aesthetic, perfect for spring and summer. Now I just need them to go on sale!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGrtuJ8VSjdY76zjxHe_mxWgxfJUYZcIU_C43wJJrJWQ6Ps6_utUhEZKOXY7SZkpFr1pVYSzEx0cN02esaUbaBZSESM6vLF48HHqqIJ8vAfw5cYYtZA2jC_aeInwcyhcPR_Z6A2PGh/s1600/laura+mercier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGrtuJ8VSjdY76zjxHe_mxWgxfJUYZcIU_C43wJJrJWQ6Ps6_utUhEZKOXY7SZkpFr1pVYSzEx0cN02esaUbaBZSESM6vLF48HHqqIJ8vAfw5cYYtZA2jC_aeInwcyhcPR_Z6A2PGh/s200/laura+mercier.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20- Illuminating<br />in warm radiance, $43<br />by Laura Mercier<br />Available at Sephora</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
Fake Flawless Skin: I received a free sample of Laura Mercier's Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 from Sephora a while back. I threw it in my make-up bag and didn't think much more about it...until my early sleepless nights with a new baby had me looking a little less than rested. Without an under-eye concealer handy, I thought I might use it as a stand-in. Now I am loving it! Admittedly, it is not supposed to be used as under-eye concealer. However, I tend to shy away from heavy or more pronounced cosmetic products, which concealers often are, and so this tinted moisturizer is much more my speed. As a lightweight, sheer foundation with a hint of sheen and color, I've found that it masks any under-eye shadows and instead gives my eyes a fresh, almost dewy look. Of course, I'm sure it also works fabulously when applied as intended, as a tinted allover facial moisturizer. I haven't actually tried that yet, but I'll be sure to report back if I do.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVhIpnNWqd7LTUANc1TtyF4nciiwV0duBiCjVk8TF4t4tc1-uaM1VwFqn20oQ5dWpX7uhOFR_taGoxeQtWqdWzpd7uABUInU-O7GZXKqqa-Bvt_tQ2PyOv0E7SY0EXw71cXcZrBniq/s1600/tory+burch+phone+case.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVhIpnNWqd7LTUANc1TtyF4nciiwV0duBiCjVk8TF4t4tc1-uaM1VwFqn20oQ5dWpX7uhOFR_taGoxeQtWqdWzpd7uABUInU-O7GZXKqqa-Bvt_tQ2PyOv0E7SY0EXw71cXcZrBniq/s200/tory+burch+phone+case.jpg" width="175" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pyramid Stud Silicone Case<br />in blazer blue, $45<br />by Tory Burch</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tech Accessories: My beloved Kate Spade iPhone case looks like it has seen better days (it has) so I have recently been on a request to find a replacement. After recently finding myself on the losing end of a heated Ebay bidding war for the case I really wanted and couldn't find anywhere, I had to accept that maybe there were other fish in the sea. I'm happy to report that there are! I came across this Pyramid Silicone Stud case by Tory Burch online the other day, and it might be just the fish I'm looking for. As I've said before, I'm a sucker for studs and spikes so I'm loving their very practical manifestation here. This case is available in "blazer blue" and "royal fuschia." While I'm typically more of an everymustbepink type of girl, I'm actually feeling drawn to the blue. I feel like the "blazer blue" (navy) gives the studs a more subtle, dignified feel, perfect for the New Year and a more grown-up me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4HfHpyryAcRe27D7nUkeMSuQvuVpPz_eFAD9hEycUJNogUuT3HNNvuBhEnlCl5mIaaUT9nwQQXfPUvzfhe0JAKUd1dpVA_jaAPOOybTblwXawDpUSQz9KuxtrOs1iqjdTPKv8RQMq/s1600/j+crew+chambray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4HfHpyryAcRe27D7nUkeMSuQvuVpPz_eFAD9hEycUJNogUuT3HNNvuBhEnlCl5mIaaUT9nwQQXfPUvzfhe0JAKUd1dpVA_jaAPOOybTblwXawDpUSQz9KuxtrOs1iqjdTPKv8RQMq/s200/j+crew+chambray.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Keeper Chambray Shirt, $78<br />by J. Crew</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Chambray: My husband loves chambray, which is only further evidence that my born-and-bred California boy is becoming more of a New Englander with each passing day. He has several chambray shirts, but up until recently, my personal chambray count was 0. So you can imagine how excited I was to unwrap one of his Christmas gifts to me and to discover my very own chambray shirt inside! I am drawn to casual, effortless feel of chambray, but I also like that it can be dressed up by tucking it into a skirt. About a month ago, I saw the cutest outfit on display in the J. Crew window, where the chambray shirt was tucked into a red and green plaid skirt and paired with black tights and a statement necklace. Now I just need to complete the rest of that outfit!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhiuA8OqYeI06OxeV9Yj6_6iyt8z7SBSjjlubbr2Dpk25CIg-2ruS2GcQDMxMhZ6wQIbdQx8zvOwgwbriz_Zl0focl9K3DXGwQYTSyBNuxP72Z9ypzUBz8IvH2sAAmlliBAZwvMix/s1600/tiffany+earrings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhiuA8OqYeI06OxeV9Yj6_6iyt8z7SBSjjlubbr2Dpk25CIg-2ruS2GcQDMxMhZ6wQIbdQx8zvOwgwbriz_Zl0focl9K3DXGwQYTSyBNuxP72Z9ypzUBz8IvH2sAAmlliBAZwvMix/s1600/tiffany+earrings.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Cultured Pearl Earrings, $925<br />by Tiffany & Co.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tiffany Pearls: I received my Tiffany pearl earrings from my mother when I was in college, and I have worn them pretty much everyday since. Pearls are, of course, timeless and elegant, and there isn't an outfit on the planet that doesn't look better with pearls. Recently, however, I have begun to feel like my pearls need a new look. I had been debating going one size bigger than the pearls I already have--that is, until I saw Tiffany's cultured pearl earrings. A stunning adaptation of the traditional pearl look, these earrings are 18k white gold with cultured pearls and round brilliant diamonds. They are nothing short of breathtaking, and if I were so lucky as to have these, I feel that I can quite honestly say I would never need another pair of earrings again. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
So there you have it. As you can see, while I'm making every attempt to be practical these days, I simply can't help but dream big. However, I would feel remiss if I didn't mention how blessed I feel for all the things I already have. In fact, just this morning, when I mentioned the handbag on my wishlist, my husband reminded me that I don't need a handbag to feel like I have arrived--that the little girl asleep in the backseat of the car during our conversation was evidence of how far I have come in life. While I don't like conceding, he was/is undeniably right. I have so much to be grateful for, and I feel lucky for that everyday. BUT...I still want my Louis bag. And on that note, until next time, happy New Year--and happy shopping!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-58947862919949720662012-08-12T11:25:00.000-04:002012-08-12T11:26:51.169-04:00Cooking For Three<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp40HXV7Cia4enH99lyLZR8g6sZz7pHl74FcC98nb5dVgmhak2MfrfUTJkzh6SO4qQF9EKjqyXApA5n2Np-pq2VcCDzFXfEdwFrXbcdgfVhp3bMgCoGZy1lLkGAXDwCk4R_as9_O1Z/s1600/medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp40HXV7Cia4enH99lyLZR8g6sZz7pHl74FcC98nb5dVgmhak2MfrfUTJkzh6SO4qQF9EKjqyXApA5n2Np-pq2VcCDzFXfEdwFrXbcdgfVhp3bMgCoGZy1lLkGAXDwCk4R_as9_O1Z/s400/medium.jpg" width="280" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This weekend, my mom gave me a cookbook that she selected with my little family of three in mind, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kids-Cooking-Slightly-Messy-Manual/dp/0932592147">Kids Cooking: A Very Slightly Messy Manual</a></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. The concept behind this book is that kids can cook with an "adult helper." Obviously, my nearly nine-month babe is still a little young to be a sous chef, but it's definitely fun to plan ahead. So I was scanning the pages yesterday when it dawned on me: these are recipes that <i>I</i> can cook!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sad? Maybe. But definitely true. The whimsical illustrations that accompany recipes like "Buried Treasure Muffins" and "Alphabetter Soup" make it clear that these recipes are for kids, but the simple directions (and even the illustrations!) make this cookbook a handy guide for those whose culinary skills might be...lacking, shall we say? While I have two binders full of recipes that I've clipped from <i>Martha Stewart Living</i> and other magazines, I could probably count the number of times I have actually made said recipes on one hand. Don't get me wrong, I totally <i>want</i> to make my Martha recipes, but my skills--and frankly my spare time--just aren't there yet. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Someday I will make those fancy, sophisticated culinary creations, but in the meantime, I can hone my skills with more basic recipes like this:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><u>Put-Back Potatoes</u></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ingredients-</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">potatoes (as many as you like)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">milk: 2 tbsp. for each potato</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">grated cheddar cheese: 3 tbsp. for each potato</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">salt and pepper: pinch of each</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Directions-</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1. Bake your potato</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2. Take the potato out of the oven when it's all done, wait a little bit for it to cool, then cut it in half and scoop the potato out into a bowl. Keep one of the skins (you're going to need it).</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">3. Save 1/3 of the cheese to sprinkle on top of the potato before it goes in the oven. Mix the rest of of the cheese, the milk, and the salt and pepper with the potato. If you like butter, add a pat per potato now. Use the masher or mixer while the potato is still a little warm.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">4. Put your potato-and-cheese mixture back into the potato skins you saved. Put it in a baking pan, sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top of it, and put back into the oven for 20 minus at 350 degrees.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">5. It's done when it starts to melt!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Yum.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There are also recipes for play dough, giant soap bubbles, and face paint, but I think I'll save those for Harper.</span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-82255638408391892002012-08-04T21:59:00.001-04:002012-08-12T10:40:59.011-04:00Pretty In Pink<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNa5_8KnxzMYQRM85FeJQxZCvrRFe7Z3-BUzrTt0gCTdoYhHjuhZ9glXyP2AupzRJxMIhtKSSyb2K1l5DIvYUIf-tSFRgkNIzUePujUfvTCzbMuefeaxx5p9oanosYAFSr8sk_5DFp/s1600/_6687286.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNa5_8KnxzMYQRM85FeJQxZCvrRFe7Z3-BUzrTt0gCTdoYhHjuhZ9glXyP2AupzRJxMIhtKSSyb2K1l5DIvYUIf-tSFRgkNIzUePujUfvTCzbMuefeaxx5p9oanosYAFSr8sk_5DFp/s400/_6687286.jpg" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nail Colour in May by Chanel, $26<br />
Available from Nordstrom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After a very looong week, I was both surprised and relieved when I found myself with an hour to spare on Friday. I did what any other floundering fashionista might do and scurried off to the nail salon for a long overdue mani/pedi. As luck would have it, the bottle of Chanel nail color that I purchased on impulse a few weeks ago was still tucked away in my purse; who knew that being such a disorganized mess would actually work to my advantage?! How nice to end the week right, pretty in pink.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYeayS5it8e9kaQUNQ2-JpyyovOT_J4LGMHYoYBih9PpTB0bdaL-LcLaUE0HcR6YZandgjQXFzTSmvHIEWN61S9K5770IYwOXAAHOi_94QM9U0PQroHjf6WRUw2WG6SGt-YAmzw8h3/s1600/IMG_1896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYeayS5it8e9kaQUNQ2-JpyyovOT_J4LGMHYoYBih9PpTB0bdaL-LcLaUE0HcR6YZandgjQXFzTSmvHIEWN61S9K5770IYwOXAAHOi_94QM9U0PQroHjf6WRUw2WG6SGt-YAmzw8h3/s320/IMG_1896.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">May on my nails,<br />
holding hands with my girl.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As part of this year's Chanel spring/summer collection, <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/chanel-le-vernis-nail-colour/2826973">May</a> is my perfect pink. Finally! It's the pink I have been searching for forever, soft and feminine but still punchy and fun. <a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/beauty/2011/10/06/new-chanel-nail-polishes-for-spring/summer-2012---april-may-june">British Vogue</a> calls May a "pretty shell pink," though it reminds me more of cotton candy than anything else. Either way, May has a girly sweetness to it, and I love the way it looks on my hands and toes. This pink has turned my week around (though the complimentary neck/shoulder massage at my nail salon certainly helped). Yay for May!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCLQ4zw_spZSOK48x_ND9tk7soSS3XnmYYXYPbmKRS-Yo10ranlt4OqAY-P_69YfbvKiRNyGbNtrZGmi_GSrXQj-PdILoYXfpBVlNnmUwmv4o6wCWVn2XaPghha6Whye_OjoWUPuV-/s1600/chanelnail_V_60ct11_pr_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCLQ4zw_spZSOK48x_ND9tk7soSS3XnmYYXYPbmKRS-Yo10ranlt4OqAY-P_69YfbvKiRNyGbNtrZGmi_GSrXQj-PdILoYXfpBVlNnmUwmv4o6wCWVn2XaPghha6Whye_OjoWUPuV-/s400/chanelnail_V_60ct11_pr_b.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nails at Chanel,<br />
photo from Vogue UK</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-5219162172667894152012-07-25T21:54:00.001-04:002012-07-25T21:55:50.775-04:00Lip Service<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKt3dOOzlp8LStNJ_5O3rF9VNyR_FYsq0FOuhCiAGYb2eLJt4gr7FQY2juBC7uVaesxkmQ3T-yQIWOd4ga2y5adPOkU-QuLL2auaVawo6KBXMedW1ezlDNn7B4ebG_BqFL3sVaIZq9/s1600/s1018894-main-Lhero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKt3dOOzlp8LStNJ_5O3rF9VNyR_FYsq0FOuhCiAGYb2eLJt4gr7FQY2juBC7uVaesxkmQ3T-yQIWOd4ga2y5adPOkU-QuLL2auaVawo6KBXMedW1ezlDNn7B4ebG_BqFL3sVaIZq9/s320/s1018894-main-Lhero.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big & Healthy Lip Gloss in Krystal<br />
by Buxom, $18<br />
Available from Sephora</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Last weekend, I was blessed to be a bridesmaid in my best friend's stunningly beautiful wedding in Kennebunkport. While the weather was so hot I thought I might melt, I managed to pick up a very cool tip, thanks to a fellow bridesmaid, who shared the lip perfecting power of <a href="http://www.sephora.com/buxom-lips-P174213?skuId=980995">Buxom's Big and Healthy Lip Gloss</a>. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I tried the clear gloss that Buxom calls "Krystal." I'm not sure why the marketing pros at Buxom felt the need to spell it that way; I mean, this isn't a stripper we're talking about here so why cheapen a good thing? But I digress. This lip plumper gives your lips an icy little zing while also adding shine and moisture. Hello, lip service! You can wear it alone, though I tried it over lipstick and really liked the added fullness and mega gloss. Love this!</span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-740636178499860726.post-69200883878930259642012-07-16T13:20:00.003-04:002012-07-16T13:22:23.387-04:00Mommy Mocktail<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIUj-H6nGYwKCMeKOf5yZPCnCYf3A8v43K8o4w7XhPHC7BFg3V3W7_nHsMMOYbmealGr6gggaavr_kwIY5UEFWNaNcRZlX-etIWIUlJ592cw1hbwVLP9zyXz1rC0nV7Ox6fdG4_5Px/s1600/IMG_1690.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIUj-H6nGYwKCMeKOf5yZPCnCYf3A8v43K8o4w7XhPHC7BFg3V3W7_nHsMMOYbmealGr6gggaavr_kwIY5UEFWNaNcRZlX-etIWIUlJ592cw1hbwVLP9zyXz1rC0nV7Ox6fdG4_5Px/s400/IMG_1690.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mommy makes mocktails--<br />
say that five times fast...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After a long day at work last week, I needed a drink. But since I don't drink--alcohol, that is--it was mocktail hour at the Wilson house. My good little babe was asleep, and I found myself with a few precious moments to make myself a drink and put up my feet (okay, I actually used those moments to check email, but that's basically the same thing). Here is the amazingly delicious mommy mocktail that I created. Even for you drinkers out there, this is something you should definitely consider; it was absolutely the <i>most</i> perfect thing I could have imagined on a sizzling summer afternoon.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mommy Mocktail:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">One cup ice</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">4 oz. diet 7-up</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">4 oz. strawberry lemonade (I used Trader Joe's brand)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1/4 lime--squeezed</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14189013748042966899noreply@blogger.com0