Happy Weekend!

This week has seemed to drag by. Work has been hard, partial due to the fact that I have been sick since last weekend. I did get a welcome break on Wednesday when I was provided with a snow day from work. I really needed the rest and the time to catch up on some much needed sleep. Hopefully this weekend I can snuggle under a blanket, eat soup, watch reruns, and sleep in. Maybe by Monday I will have kicked my sinus cold and be on the mend. So, go out there and have some fun this weekend for me (hopefully you are not under the weather and are able too).

via: 1

Cashmere Sweaters: A Wardrobe Essential

I anxiously await the arrival of sweater weather every year. Here is further proof of how much I adore a good sweater. With warmer temperatures around the corner it may be getting close to time to pack away your chunky knits but I have found the perfect alternative for the chill that is often found in the spring morning and evening air and that is also a great year round layering piece.

The majority of your shopping dollars should be spent on classic, well made items. We have all had those days were we have stood in front of our closet thinking we have nothing to wear. By investing in timeless pieces you will never be at a loss for what to wear again. Cashmere sweaters are seasonless , timeless, and effortlessly chic. They are a staple every woman should own. I even keep a cashmere sweater or cardigan in my office all summer long because they look amazing with everything and are great for when the air conditioning gets aggressive like it often does in office buildings.

A cashmere sweater (like mine pictured below which is from REPEAT ) is a closet workhorse that you will wear over and over in a million different ways. I love wearing my gray cashmere sweater with a great statement necklace and dark wash jeans for an understated but sophisticated weekend look. Although a cashmere sweater is definitely an investment piece a light weight cashmere sweater will carry you through seasons. I promise you that nothing will feel better than the amazing feeling of the soft wool against your skin. You will thank yourself many times over for building a wardrobe around essentials like the elegant luxury a cashmere sweater offers.

Have you invested in a cashmere sweater? What other items do you consider a staple every woman should own?

via: 1

How to Wear a Floral Dress

This has been a very cold and snowy winter for us, but last week we finally had a break in all of the bad weather. We had sunny days with 70 degree temperatures. It was definitely Spring like weather, which made me think about my wardrobe and Spring fashion. One of my favorite Spring fashion trends is floral print dresses. Floral dresses are ultra feminine, flirty, and romantic. If you are not the ultra feminine type pair your dress with a denim jacket, bomber jacket, or even a moto jacket. Every girl needs at least one in her closet. Right?
Many people shy away from floral print dresses because they just are not sure how to wear style the colorful print. So today I want to share some tips for how to wear a floral print dress.

Tip 1: Choose one of the colors and use that color for your shoes and bag. Usually, floral prints are multiple colors. Any color no matter how much of it is actually in the print will work. I like to pick one of the colors that are used in a smaller amount and then help it stand out more by matching my shoes and bag to it.

Tip 2: If you just are not sure what color to style with the print, neutrals always work. Think white, black, gray, or creams and the look will still be chic and stylish. I love to pair florals with neutral stripes.

Tip 3: Watch the size of the print. If the item is totally floral print you need to pick the right print size for your body type. If you are petite a large print can overwhelm you and make you look like a little kid and on the other end of the spectrum if you are more full figured a tiny print can make you look bigger.

Tip 4: Floral prints are beautiful and bold so keep the accessories simple. Delicate gold or silver jewelry can keep it simple. Do not go over and pair your floral print dress with floral accessories.

Use these tips and get out there and rock out a floral dress look this Spring. Are you in need of a floral dress? Right now I am really in love with Peter Hahn's floral print dresses. Check out my favorites from the collection below:

via: 1

Kate Spade Book Clutch

I love all things Kate Spade. Whenever I look on the Kate Spade website, I see so many things that I would love to own. Let's face it everything is just stunning. I'm not just talking fashion, but everything. I see some of the cutest stationery and home decor there as well. Right now, I am lusting after the book clutches. I mean it's Kate Spade and it looks like a book! Maybe it's the nerd in me, but these are amazing. I would love them all, but they are not in my budget at the moment, as I am saving for a couple of trips that I would like to take later this year. I think these would add a little flair and whimsy to a look. What do you think about them?

The Never Ending Love Story - Marry Me - I Married Adventure - Paris and the Single Girl - The Portrait of a Lady

via: 1

Stylish for Less: Pastels

One of my favorite trends for Spring is pastel fashion. I love the delicate, soft, femininity that pastel items have. The color alone makes these items super feminine and girly. These colors just read Spring to me and with all the horrible winter weather we have had this year I am ready for some Spring fun in the sun. A cute and flirty pastel dress is a must have this Spring, but if you aren't ready to go full on pastel you should definitely pick up a pair of pastel flats or a pastel clutch. Below are some of my favorite pastel finds for under $50. What do you think?

Winter Sky Dress $34.99 - Striped Dress $47.99 - Lilac Polka Dot Dress $47.99 - Floral Cutout Clutch $22.58 - Cocktail Ring $28 - Braided Strap Watch $18 - Statement Bib Necklace $18 - Dog Print Top $29.99 - Chevron Print Top $39.99 - Hello Sunshine Flats $39.99 - Scalloped Edge Satchel $33.87 - Deborah Lippman Tiptoe Through the Tulips Nail Polish $18 - Deborah Lippman Build Me Up Buttercup Nail Polish $18 - Floral Pathways Tights $17.99

via: 1

8 Tips For When You Are Sick

I honestly thought I was going to survive this winter without getting sick. I have been doing everything right. I have been eating better (getting in my fair share of fruits and veggies), getting more sleep most nights, and taking vitamins religiously. Everything was going great until about two weeks ago. It started with an irritating scratchy throat and then a couple days later it turned into full on sore throat, headache, sinus pressure, chest congestion, and perhaps worst of all a congested nose. It took me over a week and a half to feel back to 90%.

Here are a few of my tips for surviving sick time:

1. If at all possible take a day or two (or even three) off. There is nothing worse than having to struggle through a busy day and try your best to be productive when you are feeling miserable. Plus, it does no one else any good if you are out there spreading germs. So call in sick.

2. Stay hydrated. It is always important to stay hydrated but never more so than when you are sick. Fluids prevent dehydration and thin mucus, which helps unclog stuffy noses. Keep water and decaffeinated tea always within reach while you are recovering.

3. Grab a nap. Allow your body to get as much sleep as it wants. Sleeping helps give your immune system a boost because while your body is resting your immune system releases cytokines, which are proteins that right infection and inflammation.

4. Take a long, hot, steamy shower. Showering helps get rid of that icky feeling that accompanies being sick. Plus, the hot steam (even if only for a short term) does wonders for a stuffy nose.

5. Chose a place and set up camp. Pick either your bed or a comfy sofa. Pull out extra blankets and pillows so you can stay comfy and warm and place everything you need near by to minimize the number of times you have to leave your spot.

6. Watch favorite movies. Now is the perfect time to catch up on everything in your DVR, watch your all time favorite movies, or start a season of a brand new show on Netflix. Keeping yourself entertained will help the time pass faster. Some may choose to read instead but when I am sick I really don't want to put for the effort to concentrate on a good book.

7. Keep supplies on hand. I recommend at the first signs that you are starting to come down with a nasty bug to immediately hit the drug store. When you start to feel really crummy you are not going to want to spend time walking up and down aisles trying to find the right medicine or standing in line. I also think it is a great idea to keep things on hand like tea, cough drops, a few extra boxes of tissues, and a humidifier.

8. Unplug. Your body needs rest. Studies have shown that using electronics leads to poor sleep. To help yourself relax turn off your phone and put your laptop away.

via: 1

3 Current Favorite Dresses

During winter and with the drop in temperatures my dresses often get pushed to the back of my closet. We had a touch of spring like weather last week (although they have drastically dropped again) which has me anxious to pull my dresses back and even pick up a few new ones. Three of my current favorite dresses including this dress with a beautiful print are below, but this pink dress is a close fourth. Are you anxious to start wearing dresses this spring too?

Zola Dress / Botanic Atelier Peplum Dress / Ruffle Shift Dress
via: 1

What to Wear: Spring Pastels

This week the #whattowear post is about the Spring fashion trend of wearing pastels. Pastels are beautiful colors. I love the lighter shades of purple, pink, green, yellow, and orange that are associated with pastel colors. These colors are subtle and soft, but if you pair pastels together you can definitely make a bold statement. I love the color combination of pastel green and pink. What are your favorite pastel colors? You always know that Spring is near when you see stores displaying lots of pastel items.
Pastels are feminine and dreamy. The look below would be perfect for meeting friends for lunch or for wearing to work. When it comes to pastels, I like to add in lighter neutrals like beige and white. I also love navy with a pastel pink or yellow. I would love to own a mint green blazer like the pink one below or if money wasn't an issue I would love a pastel pink moto jacket. That jacket is something I will dream about.

Pink Bloom Necklace - Pastel Blazer - Mint Bow Top - Faux Leather Skater Skirt - Mint Tights - Pepperminty Ciate Nail Polish - Two Toned Pastel Flats

via: 1

Versatile Moto Jackets

When I first think of a moto jacket, I think tough and edgy. I think ripped jeans, boots, and studs. The truth is moto jackets are a lot more versatile than that. They definitely rock with leather skirts or shorts, but they can work with other types of looks too. They are perfect with jeans and tees to add a touch of edginess to your casual look. Throw one over a tulle skirt for a balance of hard and delicate, tough and feminine. Now, check out that last look above. Moto jackets even look amazing over a gorgeous dress. What type of look would you want to wear a moto jacket with?

via: 1, 2, 3, 4

Chit Chat: The Power Of Compliments

I spent all of last week sick but I had so many deadlines it was impossible for me to miss work. It was clear that I was feeling miserably but more work kept getting added to my plate which required me to stay at the office late almost everyday. I am going to admit that this lead to me be a little grumpy with a sense of being unappreciated by my boss and coworkers. Then I had a meeting with a new client and during our meeting my new client informed me that she was so happy I was the attorney working on her case. She told me about how one of my former clients had sang numerous praises for my work including how effective and efficient I had been. My mood instantly lifted and I became determined to do my best work possible.

Over the weekend while thinking about the conversation with my new client I finally realized the power compliments have. Giving a compliment is so simple but the act is often overlooked. How many times have you thought to yourself how much you like someone's dress or how someone had done a great job but never spoke up to express your admiration? Compliments are a powerful way to boost morale and build relationships. A genuine compliment takes only seconds to give its effect last much longer.

Years ago I made it a point to give compliments more freely and I have stuck to that goal, whether it is praising a coworker's job or telling a stranger I pass in a crowded store how much I love her scarf, but over the weekend I have realized that even I have been stingy with giving kind words. Compliments are so infrequent but they make people feel so good. When people feel good they remember who it was that made them feel that way. In keeping with my resolution to be kinder I am going to aim to give more compliments.

I read somewhere months ago that if you praise someone's character trait or talent they will try to live up to the praise given. I believe this couldn't be truer. After my client left my office I was motivated to do a great job and determined to not let her down. This year I am going to focus on the less obvious things to praise, whether it is a friend's loyalty, a neighbor's kindness, or how a coworker gives the most persuasive presentations.

Let's all try to brighten someone's day, spread some encouragement, and send a little good karma our own way.

via: 1

On The Menu: Garlic Cheese Bread

Cheese and bread are my two favorite foods. I definitely cannot resist when they are combined. This recipe although it takes a little planning ahead could not be easier to make. I cannot describe how delicious this bread is when served hot from the oven along with pasta and a big salad. I love how the little bits of cheese along the outside of the pull apart bread got crispy!

Ingredients:
16 Rhodes frozen white dinner rolls
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp. dry parsley flakes
1 1/2 tesp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp. onion powder

Directions:
1. Remove the frozen rolls from freezer. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lightly sprayed with nonstick spray. Loosely cover the pan with plastic wrap that has also been lightly sprayed with nonstick spray. Allow to sit at room temperature for 45 minutes.
2. Cut rolls in half with a clean pair of kitchen scissors.
3. Combine melted butter and seasonings together.
4. Pour over dough and gently mix.
5. Add 1/2 cup of the cheese and combine until each piece is coated.
6. Line the bottom of a 9 inch springform pan with pieces of the dough. Top with remaining cheese.
7. Allow to rise for an additional 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours.
8. Cover the bottom of the pan with foil to prevent butter from leaking out.
9. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 20-25 minutes or until center is completely done.

Happy Weekend

It has been a while since I have been this happy for the weekend to arrive. I am still attempting to recuperate. I am crossing my fingers and hoping to 100% by Monday so this weekend I will resting up and trying to catch up on the work I have fallen slightly behind on this last week. The warmer temperatures are supposed to stick around over the weekend. I wish I felt like getting out and enjoying them but instead I foresee super marshmallowy rice krispy treats, sleeping in, and a Supernatural marathon on Netflix taking up the majority of my weekend. Although Supernatural is the type of show I typically love I have become slightly addicted to it. Plus, have you seen Jensen Ackles?

Sunday is my little brother's birthday. He requested months ago that I make him a White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake for his birthday and of course he is going to get it. It is a big sister's job to spoil her little brother.
What are your plans for the weekend?

via: 1

Friday Favorites

Sometimes I just love finding items with a quirky detail like the heart buckle belt below. I also love THIS belt with a heart detail. My favorite item from below would have to be that biker jacket. It is just so beautiful and I love the creamy color it is instead of black. Normally when I think of a biker jacket I think black and this one is different. I think it would look great with this SKIRT or this DRESS. What do you think?

Zipper Sleeve Biker Jacket - Watermelon Top - Fossil Erin Tote Bag - Heart Buckle Belt - Bare Traps Roma Booties - Olympia Collar Top

via: 1

Wise Words by Marilyn Monroe

“This life is what you make it. No matter what, you're going to mess up sometimes, it's a universal truth. But the good part is you get to decide how you're going to mess it up. Girls will be your friends - they'll act like it anyway. But just remember, some come, some go. The ones that stay with you through everything - they're your true best friends. Don't let go of them. Also remember, sisters make the best friends in the world. As for lovers, well, they'll come and go too. And baby, I hate to say it, most of them - actually pretty much all of them are going to break your heart, but you can't give up because if you give up, you'll never find your soulmate. You'll never find that half who makes you whole and that goes for everything. Just because you fail once, doesn't mean you're gonna fail at everything. Keep trying, hold on, and always, always, always believe in yourself, because if you don't, then who will, sweetie? So keep your head high, keep your chin up, and most importantly, keep smiling, because life's a beautiful thing and there's so much to smile about.”
― Marilyn Monroe

via: 1

Stylish For Less: Under $30

I have a little over a week left in my shopping ban which has went surprisingly well. I am really convinced now that I will be more motivated than ever to stick to a budget when shopping. The items below are all $30 or under making them great finds for anyone trying to watch their spending. This necklace is high on my current wish list. It is hard for me to resist anything with that much sparkle. I also think this skirt and this handbag look way more expensive than their under $30 price tags. Make sure you snatch this Kate Spade ring that is on sale up fast before it is out of stock.

Colored Tee / Bikini Top / Bikini Bottom / Burnout Skirt / Chain Edge Belt / Handbag / Tassel Key Chain / Scallop Pave Ring / Earrings / iPhone Case / Necklace / Deborah Lippmann - Flowers In Her Hair / Snood / Glasses / Rose Skirt / Ivory Top / Flats
via: 1

Pardon The Interruption

I had plans for the post I wanted to draft for today but it just didn't happen. I have been sick since Thursday and I have had to work late the last two days. At this point I am exhausted and am looking forward to having tomorrow off to attempt to rest up. I hope to be back on track soon. Check back in the morning for a roundup of #StylishForless items under $30.

via: 1 (original source unknown)

Get Some Shut Eye: Luxurious Bedrooms

After missing so many days of work since Christmas due to the weather, this week has been killer. After constantly being hit with snow, ice, and cold temperatures since Christmas, we are now getting a week of rain and Spring like temperatures. So this looks to be a full week back to work, our first full week since Christmas. It was so hard to get up this morning. Yesterday was particularly hard for me because Tuesdays are my early duty days at work, when I have to arrive about 40 minutes earlier than usual.
This evening I am really thinking at quick cat nap after work will be amazing. I would love to be going home to one of the luxurious rooms shown above. I think these all white bedrooms look so peaceful and relaxing. I use to think I wouldn't want an all white room, but these are gorgeous and definitely changing my mind. What are your thoughts?

via: 1, 2, 3

Make a Statement: Statement Necklaces

One of my favorite accessories is a necklace. I really think that necklaces are my favorite piece of jewelry. They are so easy and simple to slip on and yet can make such a change in the way the your look comes together. A while back I thought that longer pendant like necklaces where my favorites and I wasn't really a fan of statement necklaces. I know, crazy right?
I love statement necklaces now. They can really work with any type of outfit be it casual, work, or dressed up. I love how the addition of a beautiful statement necklace can make a somewhat tomboyish casual outfit suddenly feminine and chic. Over the past 4-5 months I have gathered quite a collection of necklaces. I have even told myself not to buy any more, but who can resist?

via: 1, 2, 3

What To Wear: Winter To Spring Transition

With a forecast that says we may see temperatures in the 60's next week I can only hope that Spring may be getting closer. I always find getting dressed during the transitions between seasons a little awkward. The color of this ivory biker jacket lends itself to Spring much more so than the biker jackets I shared here. I am a huge advocate for wearing a shorter sleeve under a cardigan or jacket when dealing with transitional temperatures. I also found scarves like this light weight snood to be key pieces when the temperatures fluctuate drastically during the day.

Ivory Biker Jacket / Necklace / Jersey Top with Leather Trim / Blush Skirt (only $39) / Cluster Earrings / Ring / Tote / Cutout Sandals / Cream Spot Snood
via: 1

Parlez-vous français?

Maybe it is because I am always dreaming of taking off to Paris (see here) that I have a huge thing for tees and sweaters with French words on them that are currently available. I have rounded up ten of my favorites below. I think I could happily wear one of these tops everyday. My absolutely favorite is a toss up between this one and this one.

Je t'aime Sweatshirt / Je t'aime Color Block Sweater / Bonjour Mes Amis Sweater / Creme De La Creme Tee / Je Ne Sais Quoi Tee / C'est La Vie Tee

L'amour Triomphe Baseball Tee / Yes To Love Tee / Ça Va Baseball Tee / Paris Tee
via: 1

Chit Chat

My desk is always messy. It's cluttered with papers and objects. Some of them are things that are important to me so I keep them close by, others are essential for work like my planner, and some are things that I need to work on and get completed. Whether it is my desk at home or my desk at school it is always a little messy. When I think about my desks, I can't help but think about the Albert Einstein quote, "If a cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind, of what, then, is an empty desk a sign?" It makes me feel a little bit better about the clutter. At home my desk is a home to my laptop, pens, notebooks, books that I am reading, books that I want to read, books that I need for my classes, stationery, a few decorations (a cute little glass octopus from my trip to Florida and my Momiji message doll), and a few random items (a few bottles of nail polish, iPod, and a Perry the Platypus pez dispenser). At work my desk always has stacks of papers that need to be handed back to the kids, papers that I need to grade, my clipboard with my rosters and other papers that I need on a daily basis, my planner, my math books, pens, any handouts that I need, and a bottle of Coca Cola. One thing that both desks have in common are little reminder post-it notes.
I tend to procrastinate and as deadlines draw near, I have reminder notes every where. Little reminders will be on my desk at school, on my desk at home, stuck to my laptop (where I definitely can't miss them), and if the deadline is extremely close there will be a reminder note stuck in my pocket. Yes, I know that procrastination causes me to stress out when the deadline is within hours of approaching and I am still at work. Sometimes it is just so hard to get a task completed. I don't always procrastinate, but when I do it is usually because I am stuck and at a loss of what to do. That or I just find the task so boring and monotonous that I just cannot find the motivation to work on it and finish it.
Procrastinating is one thing that I really want to work on in the upcoming weeks and months. I am so close to being finished with my masters degree. I just need to finish the class I am currently in and then take one more this summer. So, I want to be able to celebrate that I am getting closer not stressing out because deadlines are approaching and I haven't even started working.
Are you a procrastinator or do you finish tasks with plenty of time to spare?

via: 1

The Sunday Edition

An intense amount of sparkle for only $21.

An incredibly chic dress.

I could live in this tee.

I wish I had an excuse to wear this feather skirt that I am obsessed with.

Beautiful DIY Jeweled Ribbon Bracelets.

Coconut Cream Pie French Toast that I cannot wait to try for brunch.

The correct way to apply concealer.

The 100 Most Beautiful Words In The English Language.

6 Indoor House Plants that are hard to murder.

A wonderful post on 5 Ways To Love Yourself.

With Valentine's Days just a couple days ago here Jana shared 10 Creative Dates Under $10.

How to Grow Your Blog With Pinterest.

We can also be found on Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Pinterest // Bloglovin'

via: 1

On the Menu: Cookies and Cream Cookies

Cookies are one of my favorite things to bake. They are usually quick and easy to whip up. Batches of cookies are easy to share with your friends too. These Cookies and Cream Cookies are sure to be a delight to anyone that loves oreos. They are a soft cookie, which is the kind I love.

Ingredients:

3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temp.
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all purpose flour
2 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking soda
12 crushed oreo cookies

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line two cookies sheets with parchment paper (I love that this helps make clean up a breeze).
2. Cream the butter and sugar together. Then mix in the egg and vanilla.
3. On a low speed mix in the flour, cornstarch, and baking soda. Then mix in the crushed oreos.
4. Scoop the dough, I use a small cookie scoop but you can make them larger if you want, onto the pans. Leave space between the cookies. Bake for 8-12 minutes, just keep an eye on them and bake until your desired crispiness. I like my cookies soft, but Tracy prefers crunchier cookies. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.



Original recipe from Brown Eyed Baker

Happy Valentine's Day!

Upon waking this morning I could immediately think of three good reasons to be happy that today is today. First, I didn't have to work today, which due to all of the snow days we have been having shouldn't be something I am celebrating, but I have an assignment for my online class that I need to work on. Second, it was Friday, so YAY weekend! Third, it's Valentine's Day! Even though I do not have a special someone to share the day with, I just find it sweet that we have a day where lots of couples are sharing/showing their affection for one another. Also, I don't really think of Valentine's Day as just for couples. I think it is a great day to show anyone that you care about that you care. I am in the process of finishing some cookies and cream cookies to share with my friends and family. Pop back over tomorrow to see the recipe! How are you celebrating today?

via: 1

Friday Favorites

I honestly seldom wear outfits compromised totally over neutrals. I love color and typically gravitate to colorful pieces but lately neutrals have been catching my eye way more often. This draped dress would be incredibly flattering. I have documented my love of midi skirts on this blog before ( here and here) this faux leather skirt with its perfect pleats would fill right at home in my closet. I am like a five year old when it comes to dinosaurs. I love them! A direct result of that is my huge love for this keychain.

Printed Silk Snood / Draped Dress / Faux Leather Midi Skirt / Tyrannosaurus Keychain / Crystal Meteor Drops Earrings / Cap Toed Espadrilles
via: 1

The Perfect Signet Ring

I love a good monogram item. My entire family still creates Christmas Wish List each year that we all display on my parents refrigerator on the weeks leading up to Christmas. This year the top item on my list was a gold signet ring. I was ecstatic when my parents told me that if I picked out the exact ring I wanted it would likely appear under the tree. I spent days searching but I couldn't find just the right ring that had every characteristic I was looking for but just a few days ago I accidentally stumbled upon it. The perfect signet ring.

The Original Recessed Monogram Ring at Reeds Jewelers has every detail I have been looking for in a signet ring. Gold, the perfect size, block letters that are a little more masculine than the feminine details I usually go for, and budget friendly. Since spotting this ring I have been having a hard time keeping my shopping ban for the month of February.

via: 1-Ralph Lauren Ad, 2