A Few Things...

Relaxing with a beer and doing a little screenplay reading. 

Love this living room space with french doors and simple black and whites.

Just when you are not looking for it, poof, there it is, a saying that pushes you to keep dreaming. 

Every inch of space can be utilized in the most creative ways, small space design always inspires and bar areas in the home always please. 

Hot pink lips, pucker up! 

So, this is one of my little series that may scream 'i'm a lazy blogger', but I just adore collecting random images and sharing a few of my favorite things. Confession time though: I have been so tied up with work that I haven't been as attentive to posting and commenting lately. I am in sales, so by nature at every end of the quarter I can barely breathe! It's stressful and exciting and my little release lately has been twitter. Funny enough, I didn't get it at first, but it's become my news feed and connection to so many great bloggers and thought leaders. I promise to get back into the swing of things after the weekend. I also bought myself a camera recently and have to put my mediocre photography skills back in action. One of my goals is to post about eating, shopping, entertainment and all things Chicago, to catalogue my memories of living in the windy city. x {images via note to self, sacramento street}

Dining Style...

I saw these two dining rooms and loved each one for their simplicity. I'm such a fan of long wood tables and hanging light fixtures and the feeling that you could fit a whole group of friends around to huddle and drink wine till the wee hours of the night. The mixes of patterns in the pillows and rug in #2 make me want to run out and get a few colorful accents. I've been cooking a lot lately, and the dining room in my apartment is unfinished since I ran out of things to hang, I'll be treasure hunting at the flee market this weekend. Before after pics to come! {images via la maison boheme, look linger love}

Style Crush...

I was so excited to discover Bee's blog Atlantic-Pacific recently. With every changing of the seasons - I find myself assessing last year's wardrobe and I begin to look for complimentary accessories and updated pieces without having to reinvest in new looks. I keep moving cities, so I have found that my closet is a mix of everywhere that I have lived. For example, I lived in San Francisco, so by default I have many sweaters, and a pair of jeans for every casual occasion. In NYC I collected heels that would make me jump from 5'10" to 6'2" blending with the tall crowds, and pairing almost everything with a blazer and funky jewelry. Bee's style is East meets West and she has a brilliant eye for combining unexpected things from designer labels to cheap finds. As spring ever so slowly comes upon us in Chicago, I'm diving into my closet again to take inventory and so happy to have found a little inspiration.

Spring Menu in Jackson...

I didn't take any pictures of Sunday eve dinner this weekend. But I captured a few hazy shots on the mountain {here}. Jackson was one of the most challenging unpredictable terrains I have ever skied! Our group was mostly expert level, and 2 people even ventured to ski the infamous Corbet's Coulier chute. After blazing down Larame bowl, my friend dislocated his shoulder so we snowshoed Sunday morning. It was not for the faint, we got into some extreme areas at about 7,500ft elevation, hiking for hours. It felt amazing and exciting! Afterwards we all got relaxing messages at our cabin and I cooked up dinner for 10 friends. It takes an hour or two prep but I was lucky to have a few sous chef's helping, Enjoy!

Menu:

Parmesan Encrusted Chicken

Potatoes Au Gratin

Brussel Sprouts

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Good Morning, I'm Back...

Grabbing a cup of coffee and kicking off the crazy work week to come! Thank you for visiting again after me taking a little blog break...it's always nice to come back feeling refreshed. Especially after a beautiful weekend in Jackson Hole with good friends from NYC! Skiing, Snowshoeing, Cooking and Apres ski made for a wonderful trip. Hope you all have a great Monday. {image via everything fabulous}

The "IT" List...

Happy Friday folks... I hope you had a great week and an even better weekend planned!  Take some time to dive into these great links, there is so much great inspiration here!

• mama loves papa is looking cowgirl-chic for sure, what with posing with cows and sporting some adorable cowboy boots.  I just love this look! (find mama loves papa on twitter!)
• shen dove is rocking one of my favorite looks for spring... a maxi dress with tons of layers. Perfect for when you want to dress for spring, but still be warm! (find shen dove on twitter!)
• the capital barbie features shimmery metallics to add to your wardrobe for spring. This little skirt is just TOO cute! (find the capital barbie on twitter!)
• a spoonful of dish rounds up her favorite pieces from the recently launched (or re-launched) Target GO Collection.  There are SO many good pieces to choose from!
• daily crushes brings the sunshine to you with this gorgeous dress... and a gorgeous room. Both are sure to put a smile on your face!
• turn up the rad finds an amazing rug style that I have never seen before called the Boucherouite.  They are so lovely and unique! (find turn up the rad on twitter!)
• good tots features one simple maternity top in three great maternity outfits. If you have pregnant friends, or are expecting yourself - check out these great looks!
• a spot of whimsy is internet-stalking (in the friendliest way possible, of course!) the first family of fashion - The Hilfigers.   How can you not love these classic preppy looks? (find a spot of whimsy on twitter!)
• thought and musing goes all out with a vintage leopard print jacket.  This is such a fabulous piece and she carries it off so well - very fun!
• rosy + tart has my mouth watering with this simple tomato soup recipe. I can never turn tomato soup down! Yum! (find rosy + tart on twitter!)
• undeniable style is rocking these long wide leg jeans so well. I am smitten with this outfit... I just love a pop of red this season! (find undeniable style on twitter!)
• rose a la mode snagged this ultra hip straw fedora hat for spring and summer - it will look so fab on her, I just know! How would you style it? (find rose a la mode on twitter!)
• walking around {where the sidewalk begins} has me drooling over these sherbet-esque dining room chairs. Mmmmm, who doesn't love an ice cold bowl of sherbet? (find walking around on twitter)
• good life for less released her spring + summer 2011 looks:book - get your copy now for all of your spring shopping needs.  It's like having a personal shopper for the season! (find good life for less on twitter!)

the IT list is organized by jill of good life for less, for information on participating, click here!

Hats Off To...

I am so excited to announce the winner of last week's giveaway. Congrats to Emily from Simply Southern! It was fun to read everyone's comments about NYC, it is truly one of my favorite cities in the world. I'm taking a mini-blog break this week and heading to Jackson Hole for some spring skiing on Friday, can't wait. See you next week. xo {image via beautiful simple things}

Happy Friday...

After a very very long week. I am ready to relax and enjoy the brief bit of warmer weather we are having here in Chicago;) Everyone's comments have been so sweet and fun to read, if you have entered yet, I'm still having a giveaway, that will wrap up end of day! Also so excited to be on the "it" list, thanks Jill. Have a lovely weekend ladies {and any gents who might read too}. xo {image via tumblr}

Rainbow Sherbert...

I was at the store recently and stuck in the ice cream aisle, when rainbow sherbert popped out and I couldn't resist. It feels like it's a trip back to childhood summer days. I saw this beautiful dining room and it reminded me of colors of my new fave after dinner sweet treat. I also love that cute dog lying down...I want one! {image via Mimi + Meg}

The "It" List...

Where is the month of March going? Another Friday is already upon us... take some time to be inspired by the great blogs I have rounded up today!  Happy weekend!

• one hundred inspirations pulls together this Rachel Bilson look for less (less than $100 even!) - this is a perfectly simple look for spring and summer!
• thought and musing takes a gloomy day and brightens it up with a bold blue top - I love how this color adds instant punch to any outfit!
• a spot of whimsy features 'it' girl Amanda Seyfriend... it such a beautiful spotlight on such a uniquely gorgeous gal! (find a spot of whimsy on twitter!)
• rosy + tart gives a quick tutorial (it's so easy, it's hardly a recipe) on how to roast tomatoes and it has my mouth watering for farmer's market season! (find rosy + tart on twitter!)
• second street east shows off some great home goods she found at The Foundary - I am loving this unique little side table! Decor blogs always have such a great inside track! (find second street east on twitter!)
• the capital barbie scopes out sweet pleats for spring and summer - and shares her ideas on how to make pleats work for you! (find the capital barbie on twitter!)
• daily crush is loving the look of several stacked bracelets and I am too, what a fun and creative trend. She features inspiration and tips on how to get the look for yourself! (find daily crush on twitter!)
• a spoonful of dish is inspired by Inslee Hayne's girly and chic illustrations. So cute!
• undeniable style bought a very pretty small desk and gains inspiration on how to style it... if you are tight on space but still need a small work area, this is perfect! (find undeniable style on twitter!)
• sweetie pie style is crushing on mini-bags... they are perfect with a sundress or shorts for spring and summer. I am loving them too! (find sweetie pie style on twitter!)
• mama loves papa takes a vintage thrift store find and refashions it into something more current.  I 'sneaked' the before picture above... click through for the after! (find mama loves papa on twitter!)
• keep collected is rocking the most perfect spring look in my opinion. The hair, the necklace, the jeans... I love the simple appeal.
• shen dove style is spring-ready with a great cropped trench.  I just love trenches in any form lately and this look is amazing! (find shen dove style on twitter!)
• walking around {where the sidewalk begins} has this pretty summer tunic on her wish list... I think it's on mine now as well. I love this for the beach or pool! (find walking around on twitter!)
• rose a la mode sneak peeks some of her fashionable duds from the Texas Style Conference last weekend. I can't wait to hear more! (find rose a la mode on twitter!)
• turn up the rad takes $4 Anthropologie cloth napkins (four dollars!) and turns them into throw pillows. Ta-da! I love these kinds of DIY's! (find turn up the rad on twitter!)

the it list is organized by jill of good life for less... for information on how you can be involved, click here!

Happy St. Patrick's Day...

I hope you all have a Happy St. Patrick's Day! {images 3,4 via style me pretty}

Creative Work Space...

Who doesn't want a disco ball hanging over their mini-home office? I love how this space is functional and beautiful - taking a closet and small corner and turning into a stylish spot to work. {image via fabulous k}

Wish List...

1. I've been wanting a colorful necklace to pair with jeans and t 2. Feeling like a fresh face mask for a little pampering 3. Cute wrap wrist watch that I need;) 4. Love this pretty Quicksilver tunic 5. I need a few more coffee mugs for the morning work shift  6. Adore these cute Cut-Out Boots 
7. Bandeau black Bikini's are my fave for summer sunning 8. Almost time to get the porch set up for spring and would love a pair of these outdoor wicker Chairs 9. A wine opener and chiller would make things easier;)

Walking Around Giveaway...

I mentioned that I would have a giveaway when I reached 500 followers on the blog and, hooray - the day has come! I'm so excited to celebrate with all of you and am gifting a lucky gal with this Ork Poster of Manhattan neighborhoods. I have the NYC, SF, and Chicago one's - marking the big cities I have lived. Please comment here, why you love New York City, I will be choosing a winner at random by end of day this coming Friday March 18th (feel free to enter until 10pm EST). Cheers!


Winner announced Monday. Stay tuned.


Print details: 
16” x 36”
Blue (PMS 639) soy-based ink
White, matte 100% recycled paper

A Few Things...

A funky ping-pong table, what a great room! {image via Bright Bazaar}

Laptop Envelope - tres chic!

A little romance. {image via pinterest}

Pretty pastel colors for spring, mint and peach. {image via pinterest}

Beautiful office. {image via pinterest}

Shopbop Goodies...

I found myself searching Shopbop this weekend for a few accessories to add to the mix. Here are my faves that would go with anything: Silver Pressed Earrings, Chain Necklace, Punk Pave Ring, Tassel Earrings, Mixed Chain Wrap Bracelet, Gold Branch Ring, Lace Hoops Earrings, Studded Wrap Bracelet

Spring Menu #2...

Menu:

Roasted Beat Salad with Blood Orange Vinaigrette

Baked Salmon

Asparagus + Spring Onion Risotto

Brown Butter Cake with Cinnamon Chocolate Frosting

Casual Style...

Sometimes the easiest things to throw on - have a scrubbed down, casual chic style that I adore. White tank, aviators and jeans. The kind of outfit you live in...{image via tumblr}

Hints of Pink...

Some hues of pink in the home, fashion and garden. {images via pinterest}

Happy Friday...

This pic reminds me of my friend Megan in NY;) I love it. I have had a loooong week, and I'm so excited to have some Pre-St. Patty's fun tomorrow in Chicago. Wishing you all a wonderful weekend. We're just 10 followers away from 500 - and to celebrate I will be having a great giveaway! xo {image via 4thLake}

Surfboard Love...

Rake surfboards makes handmade foam boards for riding giants. I love the long boards...if I lived on the coast I might have to get one. Alas, I do not! I did find some cheap tix to Puerto Rico though, who's with me?

10 Things I Loved this Week...

 

Here's a few things this week that were a delight:


Everything breakfast on 365 Days of Breakfast
Beautiful home in Spain on Made by Girl
Orange inspiration on Ten Scenic Drive
Tons of bookshelf love at Elements of Style
Musica roundup on Cornflake Dreams
Erin from Apt#34 wedding on Style me Pretty
Favorites for poolside lounging on Lox Papers
A tour of Greenhouse restaurant in Sydney on Pia Jane Bijkerk
Color poppin' fashion on Pink and Blue blog 
Revisiting Jack + Anjelica's romance on Mo Pie, Please 

And last but not least, a new favorite blog discovery: Luster. 

Tory Burch Baja...

The baja pullover is a classic hippie hoodie that is a blast from my past. I used to have one of these and there are photos to prove it;) I love this cute Tory Burch baja, she's bringing it back.

Song of the Day...

 

Lost In My Mind by The Head and the Heart {thank you to Rachel at Black Eiffel for introducing me to them}

Wish List...

Every week, this will vary so much! Here are a few random things that popped into my head, that I would love to add to the list:


1. I am dying to get my hands on Florence and the Machine concert tix for June in Chicago 2. I can't find my studded belt anywhere:( so I need a new one like this 3. Comfy T's with a little embellishment are so casual and cozy 4. I want this colorful tray to gather jewelry on my dresser 5. DKNY is taunting me with these black strappy wedges 6. Just ran out of my fave perfume 7. Colorful lacy bra from JCrew 8. Fondue set for dinner parties 9. Wrist candy - I love each of these bracelet sets, one's a steal

Desk Crush...

Working away from home this week. Loving these desk spaces. {images via mackenzie horan, the now, tumblr}
the now

Bringing in Brights...

A few things for the Spring Makeover...for interiors moving out the darker shades and making room for bright colored accessories is a perfect way to refresh for the season. Love these pillows and ikat tea towels.