Lunchtime...

I work from home and the days I don't have meetings downtown, I whip up a little lunch in the kitchen. I have to say...lunch can get very boring to me. And I like to make things that will last a day or two, and not take too much time;) Here is a Sonoma Chicken Salad recipe that does just the trick.  

Fall Boots...

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12

{images via pinterest}

Falling For...

With every season comes a new perspective...and a new series on the blog. I'll be asking bloggers to share what their top 5 fall favorites are, from fashion to destinations, recipes, home decor and more. It's less about the 'trend' and more about what floats your boat. What are you currently falling for this fall...? 


My Top 10:
Boots...There are a few pairs of boots that I have my eye on this season, from the back of the bike motorcycle boot to, low ankle booties for date night, I must save up for these kicks.
Vintage...I have loved the Randolph Street Market this summer and stores in Andersonville, but rarely found time, I am going to be on the hunt for a few home items this season and can't wait to dive back into strolling shops nearby. Currently coveting vintage letters and just spotted this one last weekend. R for Reilly;)
Baking...Summer months always inspire me to grill and mix up fresh cool cocktails with ingredients like mint leaves and ginger. Fall is the beginning of  that crisp feeling in the air that makes me want to bake pies, casseroles, and serve up warm coffee + cider drinks with homemade donuts. 
Football...Not only do I adore watching the game. I like to wind up and get my wicked tight spiral on. Every year I threw together the Turkey Bowl (in Sf and NYC), a tailgate picnic in the park with food, drinks and a friendly competitive game of pigskin. Should I try to kick this off in Chicago?

Sweaters...can't wait to color coordinate my stack of sweaters and throw them over cute tops with jeans this fall. It's my all time favorite season to dress, you don't have too little on, or too much, it's right in the middle of comfort and chic. Stay tuned for my current picks.
Music...This is always on my list, also different than the summer theme of going to parks and outdoor venues. I will be seeking local shows that are quaint and off the beaten path. Like Fleet Foxes (9/30) and Foster the People (10/5). And perhaps even venturing to make a few new playlists. *Miss Moss + Destined to Design always have a little music mix inspiration.
Road Trips...It's the perfect time of year to pick a spot nearby on a lake or farm to have an overnight rustic retreat.
Birthday...Well, let it be known that about a decade ago, I decided to LOVE my birthday, and ever since I make sure to have a fun little gathering with friends and maybe even a trip. It's a benchmark bday this year, so I'm off to Vegas for a weekend in September. Danielle's bday month is September too, and we'll be having some things in store for readers to help celebrate. 
TV Time Out...I happily log very little couch time in the summer months, why watch the tube when you can watch the sunset from your balcony on a beautiful night? Also, there's not much to entertain. But when the fall comes, so does some good tv time. 
Sightseeing + Culture...It's too chilly for a picnic, but not to hop on a bike and tour the city, or venture to the museum now that you don't have to feel guilty for missing the hours of sunshine during a summer day. I have yet to explore much of this cities sights and culture, so for my first fall, I need to get out my Chicago guide and be a tourist.

Good Morning...

Don't you just love waking up with a smile on your face after a nice weekend? I had a lovely day Saturday with fellow Chicago bloggers at brunch, and then walked through the Randolph Street market with a friend. Celebrated friend's bday, and new baby, and drove out to Arlington yesterday to hang with my bf's fam by the race tracks. I won $13.20, woohoo. It was adorable to see all the little kiddies running around on family day. I made my list of thing to do last night, for the week. Work, workout, post fall inspiration and enjoy the last days of summer sunshine. Hope you have a good Monday. xo {image via vanessa jackman}

Dreamy Breakfast Nook...

Doesn't this look like a comfy spot to sit with coffee and a scone, where you can read the Sunday paper...Love the pillows and fresh flowers. I visited the farmer's market this morning and got myself a colorful bouquet. Why not? ;) {image via pinterest}

Bedroom Simplicity...

Love the neutral tones and pale beige backdrop of this bedroom. Antlers over the headboard and unique lighting make this one of my faves. {image via pinterest}

The Blazer...

The best fashion piece for any seasonal transition is the blazer. Paired with dresses, casual shorts, jeans and a t, it's time to bust those blazers out for fall. {images via pinterest}

My top 10 picks 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10

Painting Lyrics...

My friend and former roomie Liz commissioned me to do a large painting for her new NYC apartment last year. We were inspired by the one we all know and love from Molly Sims' apartment in the Elle Decor archives. After long walks in Central Park to brainstorm songs for the canvas, we selected a little tune by David Byrne. We chose bold bright colors to match the Jonathan Adler decor of her Upper East Side stylish abode. Here is a peek that I shared a few months ago, looks like my art degree may come in handy now and then;) And after last week's 'A Few Things' post which showcased another DIY painting, I'm excited to get a project going for my dining room walls, now I just have to find the perfect lyrics. Any ideas?

Back to Work + Intern...

Hark! The alarm rings in the morning on the Sunday of vacation, the blues start to set in, could it be the end of my wonderful long weekend away? Yes, and then once again, the tone of alarm bells sound on Monday. Had the loveliest time with east coast friends in the Hamptons, and packed in beach days, cookouts, sightseeing and nights on the town with the bf.  Back to work, coffee in hand, and a long list of to do's for making this a successful and productive week. What I need is an intern! A bright savvy Chicago lady in school who wants to help with my blog activities. Email me;) xx {image via xo-erica}

A little shout out too, to Danielle, for helping watch my bf's pup this weekend. Thank you mucho!! 

Beach Bound...

I love this print by Thom Filicia at Serena & Lily. I'm sending you all wishes for a great weekend! I'm off to the Hamptons with the bf today and will be back on Monday to say hello. A few days off is much needed, and I can't wait to reunite with some East Coast besties for bbq's and beach time. xo

Peanut Butter Fluff and Chocolate Tart...

This recipe just might send me skipping down the streets. I can't wait to try!

A Few Things...

Art inspiration & one of my favorite poems by E. E. Cummings. 

Mixed stackable rings. 

Bar cart style on Society Social. 

Amen!

Kicking back poolside with an ice cream treat.

Matchbook collection. 

Fresh bouquet of flowers...

{images vis pinterest, tumblr)

The Last Summer Style Files...

It's bittersweet...nearing the end of summer means we're one step closer to packing away sandals and sundresses. I'm closing out all my summer inspiration style files and moving on to fall fashion next week. For this in between phase, it's great to mix boots and blazers with everything in your wardrobe, right before we kick off September with sweaters and leather...oh my! {images via Late Afternoon, Lucy Laucht, Vanessa Jackman, Pinterest}

Backsplash...

I love these shiny kitchen backsplashes! Subway style with a hint of color and sparkle. {images via pinterest}

Happy Friday...

TGIF! It's a crisp summer morning and I can't wait to soak up the last few weekends of summer in the city.  {image via pinterest}

Lovely in Lace...

There are a few items on Shopbop that I've got my eye on..Especially the See by Chloe Dress (bottom right). Simply lovely. 

Oyster Cravings...

Grilled Oysters, w/Cilantro Lime Sauce

Oysters Rockefeller 

Emerald Hues...

Loving deep emerald shades of green in the home and in fashion...makes me think of being in Mediterranean waters...Ahhhh. {images via pinterest}

Come Visit ~ Breakfast at Toast Today...

A few weeks ago my friend Danielle asked me to be a part of this series on her lovely blog Breakfast at Toast, called Girls who Inspire. For those of you who know my blog, I don't divulge many personal details;) It was great to step outside of my daily posting and share style inspiration, why I love Chicago and dish on other little fun Q's. Thank you so much for having me D, honored to be a guest. xo

Double Trouble...

I never met a bar I didn't like...but, this is L.O.V.E, a rustic chest that doubles as a console/bar cart. Genius. {image via delight by design}

Dreamy Terrace...

Through the summer I have been visiting some wonderful rooftop and outdoor spaces of friends! I cherish my small outdoor balcony space that overlooks the lake, but every once in awhile I dream of an oasis like this;) {image via AD}

Chicago Restaurants ~ Part Deux...

In addition to my Chicago Eats post this winter, a few blogger friends put together a list of dining faves for the windy city. And the list will continue to grow as we discover great new spots...Also, you can't miss my friend Danielle's 'Ultimate Chicago Guide' today on Breakfast at Toast, even more foodie fashionistas dishing it up. 

Avec ~ Great spot for groups in this small ship like-long dining room that serves up yummy fare

Bongo Room ~ pancake/french toast creations are a brunch fave for taking guests from out of town.

Cafe Baba Reeba ~ hit this Spanish Tapas restaurant for sangria and paella

Davanti ~  BYOB Italian Place,  no reservations. Great place for sharing dishes, the Burricata is delish!

DMK Burger Bar ~ Lincoln Park burger spot with toppings to please, try the fried egg on a burger.

The Doughnut Vault - I mean, donuts...need I say more?

The Drawing Room ~ pricey but fabulous, modern american dishes on the north side

Icosium Cafe ~ Andersonville - the best crepes!

La Madia ~ River North for Pizza, vino and yummy salad, great for groups. The triple pepperoni pizza with truffle oil is amazing.

Le Colonial ~ You can't go wrong with French Vietnamese fare and delish mixed cocktails ( I have also been to it's NYC and San Francisco locations which are fantastic too;)

Longman & Eagle ~ No resi's here..but well known for being one of the best spots in Chicago, try the bacon dish!

Milk & Honey ~ brunch is sublime here, get the huevos rancheros, they are numero uno!

Piccolo Sogno ~ One of the best alfresco dining space in the city.

Revolution Brewery ~ is all about beer and has some of the best american fare.

The Girl and the Goat ~ tough to get a resi at this Randolph street favorite, but worth making plans in advance to try their fried mussels

Toro Sushi ~ Lincoln Park tiny hole in the wall BYOB with a very loyal following. If you sit at the bar the owner Mitch is bound to serve you up some fresh (free) fish. 

Uncommon Ground ~ Wrigleyville - good vegetarian/organic options, all amazing.

Urban Burger Bar ~ On North Ave, this burger bar has a huge menu with tons of upscale options to add to the burgers, different meats, great fried pickles, and yummy side dishes

Xoco ~ Mexican food and delicious margs!

Zocalo ~ more Mexican faves, in River North. 

Special thanks to these Chicago ladies for sharing: It's the Little Things, Simply Smitten, Little Girl Big World, Things that Sparkle, 101 Things I love, A Lovely Escape