Gift Guide | Stocking Stuffers '16

With free and fast shipping these days, it's never too late for Christmas shopping... THANK GAHD! Stocking stuffers are one my favs because of their small size and big ability to create a smile! Here's a few little bits and bobs to consider..

Hells Yeah Flag | Whether this flag hangs over a desk or is added to a collage - these words of encouragement may just make a difference.
Fiesta Ornament | Because who doesn't love a shot of color on their tree?! It's a true party starter!
Hand Lotion | This hand lotion is my favorite cure for winter's dry skin.
Card Holder | This sharp color means business and is sure to impress friends, family and colleagues!
Nail Polish | I picked up my first bottle of Chanel nail polish and will never buy another variety. It dries quick and the colors are tried and true.
USB Cord | This unique charging cord will set you a part! And keep those pesky husbands from stealing your cord! ;)
Travel Pouches | Gorgeous and luxurious - this travel case set says "I love you."
Alarm Clock | Something this stylish on your bedside table is sure to make you get up on the right side of the bed!

Weekday Musings

"Do what you can, with what you have, where you are." - Teddy Roosevelt

Eating | I need a detox STAT! Since Thanksgiving and second Thanksgiving (burp!), I've had a bad case of no self control and feel as hungry as a horse. And you know I'm only hungry for the bad stuff - burgers, candy, pizza, cookies and fries! It's time to hit the reset button and cleanse my palette not because the bad stuff tastes gross (I'm mean... it's all delicious!) but because it makes both my body and brain feel like it's time for a nap. First step...? Taking back breakfast with these overnight oats.

Home*Work | December 3rd despite a heavy cold, we quested out for our Christmas tree. OMG did we get a tree! This year's tree has all the junk in the trunk and is a true double wide! It's official I'm a convert to the short and bushy!
Crushing On | Trevor Noah and The Daily Show. Trevor is just 32 but his quick wit has really gotten me through the election. And he's cute to boot! After John Stewart retired, I wasn't sure I'd be as interested but move on over Johnny... Trevor is the hot ticket in town!
Reading | Isabel Wilkerson's The Warmth of Other Suns. I've had this book on my reading to-do list for many years but it's eluded me. Then one Sunday Sunday supper at the in-laws, we started to chat about immigration and what it means for immigration post-election. My mother-in-law mentioned how she'd picked up The Warmth of Other Suns to learn more about America's original Great Migration. Now the borrowed book sits ready every night on my nightstand and I'm beginning to dig in. In the past, I've found non-fiction a bit daunting (I mean who wants to read about real life when I live it every day?!) but this book reads like a novel. I'm only a few pages in but look forward to updating you on this Pulitzer Prize winner!
Thankful For | Montana. Every time I'm home the mountain air seems to cure all ails. It also makes me certain we'll have to move west one of these days. The buzz of the District has always given me energy but lately the charm has rubbed off a bit and just left me exhausted.
Thinking About | A traditional alarm clock. I've got this urge to purge all iPhone contact before bedtime and think a regular alarm clock may be a good idea too. I've read about leaving your iPhone in another room when you hit the sack for better sleep and I really want to give it a try. Deeper sleep would definitely be worth the experiment and OY this alarm clock has my number!
Watching | Besides our regular rotation (Modern Family, Fresh Off the Boat, Project Runway) in the TV department, we've  recently taken on Westworld. I resisted this trendy sci-fi for weeks but eventually the Hubs wore me down with the promise of beat up cowboy boots and some good ol' fashion drama. And oh boy was he right! Westworld has nabbed my attention and now I'm trying to find a solid whiskey cocktail to serve alongside each episode. Any good recs out there?
Wearing | Stripes on repeat. Navy and white stripes are a great classic from season to season. Don't believe me? Try this, this or this (and they're all under $100)!!

Now how are things for you m'dear?!

Life By Design

A few weeks have passed since my last confession... After the election, I needed some serious time to process; you know I've been feeling ALL the feels! The election results were confusing and exhausting and left me disheartened. It seems our entire country was taken by surprise! Or at the very least my closest family and friends. While I've been processing, I've been on the road... 

I flew to Alameda, drove to Sacramento, flew back to DC, flew to Montana and am finally home back in the District! Through all these miles I have laughed, cried and refilled my gas tank by eating myself sick (I mean check out this year's Second Thanksgiving table pictured above!!) and spending time with those that make my heart feel like it's going to burst! This Thanksgiving season has really brought home what the holiday is all about and left me feeling like I'm the luckiest girl east of the Mississippi!

Keep your chin up lovelies and tell me all your coping secrets - it's never time to give up!

Election Edit '16

There's just something about exercising your civic duty. It's a fundamental right we all should be thankful for. Regardless of how you're voting this Tuesday, get your butt to the voting booth in grand old style with these red, white and blue favorites... 

Star Studded Studs | Flag | Vote Y'all Tote | Gingham Sweater | American Flag TOMS | Red, White and Blue Cocktail (you know... to celebrate registering your vote after you leave the curtained cubicle!)

Weekday Musings

Eating | When the leaves start turning, it's soup season! We're knee deep in chili, tom ka gai and butternut squash soup and we're loving every minute!

Home*Work | We're in dire need of a new mattress and have been thinking about getting a Casper. Any recommendations out there? 

Crushing On | I'm a rebel through and through! I'd pinky promised one holiday decoration purchase per season... But OMG even for Halloween?! No way, Jose! We're now the proud owners of a version of this adorable banner and these black kitty lights... Whoops!

Reading | Lena Dunham's Not That Kind of Girl. Although it's quick witted and a bit crass, my take? There are many books in the sea and this is not one I'm reading for keeps!

Thankful For | You guys! Repeat after me... Dry shampoo, dry shampoo, dry shampoo! Give this one a try and I promise you'll be #THANKFUL

Thinking About | Montana! We're headed home for Thanksgiving and I'm so excited to spend time with my family and the big sky. 

Watching | Fresh Off the Boat, The Mindy Project and Project Runway on the regular! Our faves are back so you know that means scheduled couch time - whoop whoop!

Wearing | During Rag & Bone's annual friends and family sale I was fortunate to snag these booties and they're worth every penny. Don't mind me, I'll just be over here scheming on how to add another pair to my wardrobe!

Now... What's new pussy cat?! 

Halloween Edit '16

Hey guys, Halloween is right around the corner!! Are you ready?? I hauled out our favorite decor items October 1st despite protests from the hubs.  It's no secret Halloween is my favorite holiday so here are a few items to help get you in the spirit...

Otis Swivel Chair | Mrs. Needlepoint | Cypress Double Sconce | Trick or Treat Banner | Kitty Headband | Silver Skull | Polka Dot Candle | Chilewich Rug 

Life by Design

Hello lovelies, I hope you're surviving this election season and keeping that sparkly smile! Here are a few details of life lately...

*I've already said it but I'm saying it again: I'm beyond thankful for my new carry-on! From Louisiana to Tennessee, I've been one traveling woman! The one thing missing from this bag of style and function? An espresso machine! Maybe it's because I'm in my third decade but OMG I am wiped! Traveling is really taking its toll. Any tips out there on how to survive the budding life of a road warrior?

*But on the brighter side... it's fall... and you know what that means?! Boots, pumpkin spice lattes and my favorite holiday is right around the corner! Despite protests from the Hubs, my Halloween decorations were up on October 1st - pumpkins, squash, candle sticks and skull included! Now it's just 25 days before trick-or-treaters grace our front stoop! I'm ready for you - bring the troops!

*One of the perks of this fair city is going to Nats games. I love the festive gear, the excitement in the air and... the HOT DOGS (with ALL the fixings!)  And now that the team is in the playoffs, I bought these sweet lil espadrilles to celebrate. What a steal, am I right?!

*Besides a new pair of shoes, architecture is another thing that gives my heart a flutter... Add in clean lines and a modern aesthetic and I'm sure to have a heart attack! Although much of what's in DC is classic in style - there are a few total swoon worthy buildings like Union Station. This stunner is not only a hub for transportation but boasts a vaulted ceiling 96 feet high! Sheesh, instead of stop and smell the roses - stop and drink it all in!  We may not be in the District forever so I'm trying to value every minute.

Now what's happening in your neck of the woods?!

Fall Edit '16

A rainy night calls for curling up on the couch and cooing over my latest finds... Ladies and gents - here's my Fall Edit '16:

Doggie Bookends | Functional pop art that's sure to crack a smile? Of course these bookends are right up my alley!
Swing Lamp | Brass, black and walnut?! This pin up light is totally swoon worthy.
Race Car Pillow | The Hubs would love a little sports car to zip around town and this pillow may just be the perfect placeholder...
Polka Dot Pitcher | Perfect for aqua and my weekly blooms - I can't wait to add this little number to tableware.
Runner | The hunt is on for a new rug for our upstairs hallway... I love the monochromatic pattern of this wool rug.
Work Satchel | I'm still drooling over this luxurious gem by Cuyana... And praying to the shopping gods it comes back in stock!
Cookbook | The cover photo makes my heart skip a beat - fall means soup and I'm all in!
Sweater Blazer | This J.Crew topper has my number! A blazer and a sweater?! What's not to love??
Necklace | How can you say no to these whimsical clay beads?!
Side Table | The hips don't lie on this little ditty and we may have to just call her ours for cocktails, flowers and books.
Neutral Flats | These new classic flats are a must! And who doesn't love pebbled leather?!
Small Batch Tonic | Gin o'clock is always a good idea with this bright tonic from Jack Rudy.

September Edit '16

Oh September - you bring promise of cooler weather but you're still playing with my heart and proving summer ain't over 'til it's over... Here's what I'm ogling online safely in the A/C...

Marbled Pillow // The swoon worthy modern blue and white of Rebecca Atwood fabrics always gets me!
The Girls // Time for one last beach read?  The Girls surely fits the bill!  Pick up this fast paced thriller ASAP!
Tribal Necklace // I'm pretty certain after perusing all of Katie Kime, that we'd be best friends and this necklace would be our friendship necklace...
Nars Blush // Rosey cheeks for days - this blush is one of my go tos!
Graphic Wallpaper // Some like it hot, some like graphics! I love this black and white pattern with all its angles.
Big Balloon // Someone throw a party? Please give me an excuse to purchase this glorious wonder!
Clutch // GAHHHHH... Excuse me as I pick my jaw up off the floor!  Has there ever been a more beautiful bag? Please restock Clare V. - we're counting on you!
Light Box // Who doesn't feel me on needing (MORE) coffee?
Alarm Clock // My phone in bed makes me nervous of distraction, so maybe it's time to take the plunge and get a real alarm clock? This option sure is a cutie pie!
Lounge Chair // I love this au naturel chair - it'd sure be a dream in our bedroom...
Sunflowers // The Hubs and I celebrated our wedding anniversary last week... We celebrated with big sunny sunflowers and wheat just as we did three years ago. Sigh, these years are flying by!

Weekday Musings

Eating | Guuurrl you know I'm still dreaming about Convivial's pickled rockfish...! But in real life, I'm just praying for cooler weather... Bring on the soups, oven roasts and root vegetables!
Home*Work | Werk, werk, werk, werk, werk! It's never over! We're currently repainting our stairway in this dark midnight navy - isn't it a dream??
Crushing On | This puffy vest for the hubs. I love a good woodsman look and this vest over a plaid collared shirt is sure to make me weak in the knees.
Reading | Underground Railroad. I'm totally back on the Oprah book club train if all the books are this good of a read.
Thankful For | The hubs. We celebrated our three year anniversary last week and I'm still smiling ear to ear. It didn't hurt we celebrated at Rose's Luxury where the pork sausage, habanero, peanut and lychee salad is still my favorite "salad" in the District.
Thinking About | Our next adventure! We're off to Thailand and Japan in February and we couldn't be more excited! We're back to reading a chapter a day from the guide book to tide us over. Please send any recommendations - we're all ears!
Watching | Judge all you want but Bachelor in Paradise brings me pure joy! Just when I think it couldn't get more silly, Ashley I. is crying big tears that are (almost) Oscar worthy.  That's why I looooved this piece from The New Yorker.
Wearing | Let's be honest if I could afford to dress in Cuyana head to toe, I would. And have you seen their fall collection?!  Once the temperature drops, break out the piggy bank - I need this coat and this work bag STAT!

Now... what's new pussy cat?!

Life by Design

Hello lovelies, I hope your week is sparkly like a new pair of shoes! 

* I promised a photo of our new "dining room" feature wall so here you have it... Is it not the most dreamy thing you've ever seen?! I still can't believe this actually exists in our house. Though I'm not sure how much more morning swooning the hubs can handle :)

* Last week was National Dog day so I had to throw Woodley a bone. And golly -he's got such star power on social media, it's cray!

* You guys! This was just one of those DC weekends full of happy. Friday night at Yards Park with my besties picnicking with our new Gathre mat. Saturday: paint testing for our stairwell (OMG you guys are going to flip over this moody dark navy with our white paneling) and a hike in Great Falls to celebrate the National Park Centennial; followed by drinks with my girls. Sunday: brunching with another pair of faves at Convivial (high-five hubs for being so up on DC food scene). Just drop what you're doing and order the pickled rockfish already - okay?! It's too good to miss! And then we followed up brunch with Buttercream Bakeshop where I did not buy baked goods but instead flowers from Darling & Daughters that are spot on. Sunday evening was full of even more love with a friends family dinner at Great Wall. 

Someone pinch me - my face hurts from smiling! 

Currently Coveting... August '16

Here's a short list of my favorite things I've been perusing, using and coveting... I can't help but squeal in delight at this roundup!

Coasters | In the heat of summer, our drinks have the sweats. These coasters may be a keen solution.
Sconce | Modern with a side of brass - sheesh! I'm in love.
Lip Balm | Fantastic color and shine... It's no surprise this is a product of Paris.
Burnished Blazer | Orange and hot pink have long been one of my favorite color combos... It's (almost) a sure thing this jacket joins my closet!
Filson Collar | Our Woodley boy needs a new collar and something that won't get ruined by running in and out of water.  This coated nylon collar might just be the winner!
Table Fan | This African saeple wood fan makes me want to do the Marilyn Monroe -wheee!
Catch All | The hubs is in need of a valet tray and this little guy with the monkey is a cutie.
Carry-On | Last week was my new bag's grand voyage and I have to say I stood a little taller rolling this baby through the airport.
Kitty Flats | These velvet gems will be a sure addition to my fall wardrobe!
iPhone Case | I've been playing with fire these last few weeks going careless, it's time to take the plunge and you know how black and white just gets me...!
Ark Clutch | I preordered this two months ago and keep hitting refresh on the shipping status... I can't wait!!
Umbrella Stand | If it has to rain you might as well crack a smile on your way out the door with this sleek little number.

Weekday Musings

Eating | Too much bad food... It's time to start clean eating and maybe finally take the plunge and do a detox? I do need to cross off another to-do on my 101 in 1001 list... I'm just nervous about taking such a strong action. Any tips out there?

Home*Work | I hope you caught a glimpse of our new and improved "dining room." This new feature wall has got be calling "hubba hubba!"

Crushing On | Far from a recent obsession... I cannot get enough of Pencil & Paper Co. And their house is what dreams are made of... FOR REAL! (This photo above is just the tip of the iceberg!)

Reading | The Girls... I'm only 100 pages in but it's so dark and creepy - it's definitely very Gone Girl/Dark Places!

Thankful For | The hubs and I hosted a little shindig to celebrate the closing of the Olympics last weekend. Full of the expected red, white and blue (U-S-A, U-S-A) but also so full of love - our hearts almost burst in pure glee! The District really feels like home... (sometimes!)

Thinking About | My mind has been pretty busy lately. After reading about the "Nightly Routines of 14 Successful Women," I've taken a page out of Gwyneth's book and been taking an evening tub instead of just our regular TV time. And you betcha I bought these sea salts to enhance my soak! It's only been a few weeks but I do think my new routine may be working.

Watching | The Night Of and it's spooky good! It's a new suspense filled HBO series. Think True Detective meets Law & Order. It's totally worth the HBO Now subscription!

Wearing | These gladiator sandals on repeat. They're comfortable, stylish and I may just be buying another pair so that I can wear them for a fourth season. 

Now... What's new with you pussy cat?

Weekday Musings

Eating | I've been crushing some bread these days and just can't get enough! Just one of my 101 in 1001 day to-dos but now I'm wondering why I haven't been making it all 1001 days! Want to give baking bread a go?  Try this recipe - it's delicious!

Home*Work | The hubs has been putting his time in on the dining room feature wall and hot damn does it look good! I can't wait for the big reveal and while you're waiting... take a gander at Serena & Lily's Big Tent Sale - SQUEE!

Crushing On | I've fall hard for this spotted little number to protect my new phone. Hard to beat black and white - am I right or am I right?!

Reading | Still paging away on Cadillac Desert but I'm starting to dream of beach reads again. Any recs out there?

Thankful For | Turning 31 feels just right but easy tiger - don't starting calling me m'am or middle-aged! Thankfully on the big day, I was surrounded by love ziplining with my besties and feasting on keylime pie with the hubs and family. I'm truly thankful for my health and all the love I have in my life.

Thinking About | Upcoming work travels. You guys, I'm basically not here in September. Do you have any tips for traveling? I'm a little nervous but at least my luggage will be the cutest on the runway. Have you seen my new carry on? Check it here.

Watching | Team USA! It's hard not sporting red, white and blue every day during the Olympics. What's your favorite event? Gymnastics? Swimming? I'm partial to diving, shooting and the equestrian sports but I do love a good swim and somersault!

Wearing | Bugspray like it's perfume! I mean who isn't nervous about Zika?! And it doesn't help I'm seriously allergic to mosquitos - ouch!

Now how is your week lovely?

* Photo by Simone Nieweg of Gallery Luisotto.

Life By Design

Hello lovelies, I hope your week is sparkly like a new pair of shoes!

* Werk, werk, werk.  Starting a new job is haaaarrrd. New people, new space, new content, new information - it can be a little overwhelming. Sigh, I miss my old team too but the new team is pretty darn good...

* My day job did get me to the Democratic National Convention... Before you ask, no I did not see Snoop Dogg and, yes, I shed a tear or two!  Regardless of your politics, it's exciting to see a woman nominated to hold the highest position in our land.  And gahd damn it... #IMWITHHER and I'm not going to apologize for it! Plus I got to see my brother who had traveled to the DNC all the way from the Big Sky State.

* Our homework has been getting real y'all.  We finally have a light fixture above the window seat and we are so so close to finishing up our feature wall in the dining room. And it's pure love. Our house makes me so happy!

* You guys! I finally got to baking some bread too and proudly crossed that off my 101 in 1001 list.  Sheesh! I'm running out of time... September is right around the corner... Zip-lining is happening this weekend but I need to schedule more adventures STAT.

What's on your list??

Summer Edit x2 '16

More time in the A/C means more time for browsing... Here's what I'm currently coveting...

Pleated Top | Now I'm back to regular office hours, I'm dreaming about this piece with feminine flare...

Fatty Sundays | Salty and sweet is the ultimate combo and Fatty Sundays is legit... Order and eat (on repeat!)

Coral Light | Squeeeee - this is our new light fixture for above the window seat...!! Installation this week!

Bottle Opener | Convenience is great and when it comes with style, even better!

Parrot Keychain | The new "Polly Pocket" for your house keys.

Serving Bowl | Dinner is served with a side of fabulous with this dish.

Brave Enough | Anything by Cheryl Strayed is an A++

Katie Kime Clutch | This summer swag bag is the perfect compliment to any outfit.

Jute Rug | This little number may be the new addition for our kitchen, stay tuned...

Earrings | These make a bold statement while staying classic.

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Weekday Musings

Eating | Overnight oats on repeat. Ashley from One Fine Day turned me onto this easy morning meal and I'm not looking back... Send more mason jars stat!

Home*Work | The light installation above the window seat happens next week. You know it's good when you have to hire someone to do the job! And we're getting closer to finishing up our "dining room" feature...

Crushing On | Vanessa Bean's vases. Her sales are hot hot HOT! And sell out within minutes!  I'm hoping her August sale is my ticket to finally owning one of these lil' charmers! Third time is the charm, right?

Reading | Cadillac Desert. My day job has got me doubling down on work reading... Bear with me but this is supposed to be the thriller on drought in the American West.

Thankful For | Just the tip. My girl S finally told me the ultimate shampoo secret. Are you ready? Just condition the bottom tip of your hair!  After swearing off conditioner for decades to avoid greasy locks, I'm now in hair conditioning heaven.

Thinking About | Barbie. Like whoa! Finally joining girls in the right century... She Can Be Anything! Have you seen the first all-female ticket?

Watching | JoJo making good choices on the Bachelorette... or almost!  Total cliff hanger on whether or not Luke goes home but here's to hoping...
 
Wearing | Work clothes. Working from home had it's perks but now I'm back to office life I'm struggling to find good work clothes. Anyone have any good recs?

Now... How is your week lovely? *Art by Jaime Derringer.

Summer Edit '16

Current love list...

Snappy Clock | Fringe Towel | Wire Chair | Palm Pillow | Toothbrush | Modern Planner | Weekender | Updated Clog | Tortoiseshell Comb | Porcelain Coasters | Bronze Sconce | Cream Blush & Lip Stain | Funny Card... "Walked into the club, like whoops this isn't the pie store. Goodbye."

Life By Design

Hello lovelies, I hope your week is sparkly like a new pair of shoes!

* Summer is at a high simmer here in DC but Momofuku Milk Bar is on my commute home... so you know that means sprinkles, a cornflake crunch and soft serve :)

* And when there's no Milk Bar, there's Westport. The Hubs and I are soon heading back north for cooler temperatures and sunny beach time.  The cedar shingles just get me like whoa. And it means more family time - double win- and the seafood is just icing on the cake!

* But being in DC hasn't been without frill. Our city time has been charmed by KOMI (see more about our experience here), our hydrangeas are in full bloom and we did our civic duty by heading to the voting booth early.

Now, what have you been up to lately?!

Weekday Musings

Eating | If the Hubs or I won the lottery we would eat at KOMI every night... for the rest of our lives... An ordinary Tuesday turned extraordinary when the Hubs and I had an epic date night at KOMI thanks to two dear friends that had given us a gift certificate for our wedding a few years ago. We truly savored every moment. The food is that good and reminds you why restaurants exist. Gah - seriously no words!

Home*Work | Big changes are coming to our little humble abode off H Street - I can't wait to share the evidence once our contractor Steve begins his magic!
Crushing On | The off-the-shoulder trend (like this)...  I haven't tried it yet but I am definitely loving the bare shoulder look. What do you think?  Are you in?
Reading | Modern Lovers. But ordering this latest New York Times Bestseller was not without gaff! I accidentally AmazonPrimed the large font version... And turns out... I actually love the big print... A sign of aging?  Don't remind me!
Thankful For | Family. The Hubs and I spent a wonderful week in Massachusetts with his family at the family cottage in Westport.  We also dipped in and out of Boston to meet our latest niece -definitely reignited our own baby fever - and spend time with Grandpa Dan!
Thinking About | What to bake next from my friend Yossy's genius new dessert cookbook. Do yourself a favor and buy Sweeter of the Vine ASAP!
Watching | The Bachelorette... No judgement please, I've got a very real soft spot for really bad reality TV. Which suitor are you rooting for? Team Chase? Wells?
Wearing | These sparkly scallop flats actually went on super sale for Memorial Day... Whoops! Comfortable and cute - what's not to love?! And the most polite seven year old at Le Diplomat complemented me on my latest purchase! #winning

Now... How's your week lovely?? * Photo Credit.

Rose's Luxury

DC's very own Aaron Silverman won a James Beard for Best Chef in the Mid-Atlantic. Why?  Aaron's restaurant Rose's Luxury. This little neighborhood haunt lives up to the hype and will leave you drooling for more...

Drawbacks? The line. Try going during the week for a more manageable wait otherwise expect to be in line all weekend if you try for a seat on Friday or Saturday. Another insider tip? Make a reservation. Rose's is now offering private dining for $125 a pop for a group of 8-10. Or plan three weeks ahead for a party of 6-8.

And once you're in... get ready for quaint outdoor seating, freshly baked warm mini loaves, basil cocktails, a TOTALLY AWESOME sign, crispy fried squid with avocado, a hipster chic setting and share the brisket!!

Want more DC guide posts? Add a message to the comments section and I'll investigate! 

Spring Edit X2 '16

All this rain can't keep me from swooning over these pieces!  Me oh my - what a dream...

Milk Bar Life | Since I've already made most of what's in the Momofuku Milk Bar cookbook, I may need to purchase this book so I really take on the Momofuku feng shui.
The Shirt by Rochelle Behrens | Apparently I'm totally late to the party on this but OMMGGG!  The Shirt claims to fit over any bust and get rid of that unsightly gap... This calls for a home test! The price is steep but if it works...
Empire State Necklace | All of these necklaces please - thanks!  Empire State uses wood, bones and more to adorn their gorgeous finery... you can bet this company truly speaks to my Montana roots!
Grasshopper Lamp | We're in need of another light source in our living room but I am too picky!  This might be our winner.  I adore its sleek and clean appearance.
Marbled Candle | A modern take on classic blue and white and the scent of this candle sounds like heaven (coastal salt air with amber, vetiver, grapefruit and oakmoss).
Heron Wine Stopper | It's hard not to crack a smile when you see this little guy - just put a bird on it!
Side Table | The marble topped cage table may just be a new classic, sigh...
Oil Roller | I've heard such oils can help with relaxation before bed and if all else fails it will at least make you smell nice.  If I pick up one of these rollers on my next Leif purchase, I'll be sure to let you know.
Neon Storage Basket | The bright colors of this basket are so cheerful. It would be sure to lighten up our bedroom with all this grey gloom looming outside, right?!
Scalloped Flats | Remember how I pledged my love for scallops?  Whelp these definitely fit the bill... If only they'd go on sale - the price tag is a bit frightening!

What's got your heart turning to goo these days?

Weekday Musings

Eating | Hot damn! This just in: Rose's Luxury's Aaron Silverman received a James Beard award for Best Chef in the Mid-Atlantic! What an honor for DC and Capitol Hill residents -go team, go!

Home*Work | I keep promising a home tour... we're just not quite ready yet.  I promise it will come soon just a few more projects (P-R-O-M-I-S-E!)

Crushing On | Paper lovers rejoice, there is a new snail mail subscription One-Per-Week and it's got my heart racing! As far as I'm concerned it's pure genius and I must sign up ASAP!!

Reading | All 900 plus pages of Shantaram... Sh*t this book is long but sooo good!

Thankful For | The Hubs. He's kind, steady and handsome to boot! When the storm hits, the Hubs is the Captain who keeps our boat afloat. I'm beyond thankful to have him as my partner in crime and can't say enough about it! Gah --- he even took a ceramics class with me for our date night!

Thinking About | Pillows... pillows... PILLOWS! The Hubs categorizes my obsession as a problem but I'm of the mindset you can never have too many pillows... Watch for an upcoming post about our growing brood of pillows and judge me then if you must.

Watching | The end of Downton Abbey was devastating so we're now filling our need for old fashion England with Mr. Selfridge.  Is it as fabulous as Downton?  No, but does it take us across the Atlantic and make us feel like drinking tea... YES! What can I say, we're addicted to PBS's Masterpiece Theater!

Wearing | Gingham and scallops on repeat. There's just something about these clothing treatments and OMG when they're combined...!! Check out this top I'm currently coveting...

Now... how's your week lovely?? *Photo credit.

Life by Design

Hello lovelies, I hope your week is sparkly like a new pair of shoes!

* Travel, travel, travel - 2016 is the year I'm on the move! Palm Springs (for work and play), Phoenix (for work) New Orleans (for the Hubs's best friend's bday), Portland (for my bestie's bday) - it's been hard to keep up but now I'm home... at least until the end of the month when we'll finally get to meet our new niece up in Boston and spend time at the Hubs's family home in Westport. Hooray! Plus now I'm dreaming of Tejas... for real... who wants to check this place out with me??

* Recent discovery? Baking... or at least Momofuku Milk Bar baking. Birthday cake, grasshopper pie, peanut butter cookies, brownie pie and confetti cookies have all been on the menu! Whelp looks like we'll need to log more hours at SoulCycle ;)

Now, what have you been up to lately??

Weekday Musings

*Officially adding the Sugar & Cloth Color Wall to my bucket list, thanks for the tip Ashley!

Eating | Momofuku Milk Bar. Although we haven't ventured out to see the new digs here in DC (yes, be jealous, we got a Milk Bar and noodle place!), I've been baking it up - brownie pie, birthday cake, grasshopper pie, confetti cookies... My goodness Girl Scout cookie season just ended but you wouldn't know it with all the sweets in our house!

Home*Work | You've heard the rumor about when you're a homeowner, the work is never done.  It's all truth! We're currently looking to add a chair rail and wallpaper to our kitchen and a feature wall in our "dining room." THANK YOU contractor Steve! :)

Crushing On | Leather jackets...! I'm calling it a right of passage once you turn 30. Maybe I've finally turned the corner like Sandy in Grease and one of the edging girls? Don't count on it but there is something about the smell of leather. What do you think of this one? Or this one?

Reading | My girlfriend Yossy came out with a dessert cookbook you guys and it is GORGEOUS!  I'm pawing through Sweeter Off theVine and loving all the explanations and the photography is simply divine! Do yourself a favor and pick up her book stat!

Thankful For | Spring flowers and the promise of sunny non-humid DC days.

Thinking About | My family. My grandma turned 98 this past December and is still one of the coolest cats I know! Her health is declining and it makes being across the country feel like I'm across the world. The hubs and I need to buy tickets home stat!

Watching | Madam Secretary! How as a resident of the District has it taken me this long to find this show.  Love a powerful political woman!

Wearing | My winter jacket... AGAIN!  Argg, see above where I'm thankful for spring flowers... Whelp we're dealing with quite the cold front.  I mistakenly took all my winter duds to the dry cleaner so they'd be ready for next year and as soon as I put them in the back of the closet... SNOW!  Snow people! I guess next time I'll wait until August before putting them away.

Now... how's your week lovely??

The Big Easy | New Orleans

Do you ever wish you could relive something? I'm here to say I wish I could relive my 30th! The hubs and I traveled down to Louisiana and took on New Orleans to celebrate and loved every minute. And now we're headed down to the Big Easy for the second time this weekend -let the reliving begin!

Last August we stayed at Le Meridien. Previously a W Hotel - the grounds are gorgeous. The rooms aren't anything to write home about but the shared spaces (pool, bar, lounge and gym) make up for it!

Beignets from Cafe du Monde are a must!  Devour with joy and lick your sticky fingers - you gotta respect their gooey goodness!

Bring your walking shoes because you are going to walk everywhere to take in the architecture and life of the city!

Muff this! Muffalettas from Central Grocery are no joke. Period. Enough said.

Everyone will recommend you stop by Cochon for a meal and they're right!  Everything on the menu is delicious but especially the grilled oysters and alligator - they're simply perfection.

Other recommendations...

FOOD

+ Cafe Du Monde | For beinets and coffee, of course

+ Central Grocery | Best Muffalettas in the city

+ Cochon | We can't get enough of their oysters or fried alligator

+ Commander's Palace | At least once

+ Mothers | For Po'boys of course

+ Sac-A-Lait | A hot new restaurant honoring hunters, anglers and farmers

DRINKS

+ The Carousel Bar | Touristy but you'll love the slow ride around the bar

+ Latitude 29 | For the best damn tiki drinks you'll ever have

DAY ACTIVITIES

+ New Orleans Pharmacy Museum | Exhibits include apothecary supplies and voodoo potions

+ Gray Line Katrina Tour | The tour explains what really went down during the hurricane and gives you even more respect for the people and their resiliency

+ Backstreet Cultural Museum | A bit off the beaten track but worth every step.  The museum is in a converted home and displays Black Indian costumes from Mardi Gras and other festivities

+ Magazine Street | For boutique shopping of your dreams

NIGHTLIFE 

+ Jazz of course! Don't feel the vibe just venture next door while strolling on Frenchmen Street. It's time to set your soul on fire!