Thursday, April 28, 2011

Midi

Midi

I'm noticing that the 'midi' length skirts and dresses are becoming increasingly popular lately. I love that they are so versatile and timeless. Paired with simple basics these items can help anyone look polished with minimal effort. I can easily see myself wearing these pieces with flats and a cardigan for work, or heels, a fun clutch, and a flirty top for a lunch or dinner date. What are your thoughts on the look?
TopShop red polka dot dress
$200 - topshop.com

Dorothy Perkins yellow dress
23 GBP - dorothyperkins.com

Floral print dress
$105 - warehouse.co.uk

Miss Selfridge cowl neck dress
36 GBP - missselfridge.com

TopShop pleated skirt
$80 - topshop.com

Pleated skirt
29 GBP - pretaportobello.com

Miss Brown Vintage Midi Skirt Assorted
$80 - generalpants.com.au

Skirt
johnlewis.com

Friday, April 22, 2011

Roasted Shrimp with Tomato, Zucchini, and Onion

In keeping with my spring goals to cook often and eat more organic veggies, this evening I made this recipe and was really pleased with the turnout. Though it was timing sensitive and required me to stay near the kitchen for stirring and adding the raw shrimp at the end, it was super simple, healthy, and flavorful. I served it over couscous for a well balanced dinner. Next time I might consider adding a little lime and feta before serving to kick up the flavor even more. Happy Friday!! Hope you enjoy your Easter weekend!!

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

La Playa

Is it Saturday yet? Until then.. last weekend's scenery will be on replay.


Monday, April 18, 2011

Color Blocking

Color blocking is a trend that I plan to have plenty of fun with this Spring. What better way to embrace this beautiful season than with mixing and matching various shades of the spectrum into your wardrobe? Below are a few seperates that could definetely compliment some great pieces that I already own.

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Spring Goals

I'd like to thank fellow blogger, Camilla for motivating me to jot down some goals for myself for this season. While I feel like I'm always struck with the desire to accomplish random new goals at various times during the day, I usually neglect to write them down, remind myself of that great intention I had, and follow through. So here goes :)
  1. Give myself a little extra time in the morning to prep for the day instead of snoozing multiple times and eventually rushing out the door ( a bad habit that has more or less remained with me since Jr. High)
  2. Eat fewer processed foods. More veggies, fruits, and lean meats that really fuel my body right (preferably locally grown, grass fed, organic, etc.. all that good stuff so you're actually getting the nutrients and vitamins and not the hormones)
  3. Study real estate AT LEAST 5 hours a week
  4. Feel happier and more inspired during my work-week, whether that be in a new job or just a different approach to my current one.
  5. Continue my new habit of long jogs outside, and really only utilizing the gym for kickboxing and pilates classes.
  6. De-clutter and organize my room.. including my closet.
  7. Cook more- I love experimenting with new recipes when I have the time (usually Sunday nights)
  8. Put money in savings every week for travel and moving
  9. Volunteer at a retirement center or animal shelter (I recently signed up to give monthly donations to the Humane Society , which I feel really good about but I'd still like to feel more involved in these things that mean so much to me)
  10. Host a fun potluck/casserole night with friends at my house (recently my friend Sam confessed that she's never had a casserole.. which we all thought was crazy and decided a casserole potluck was definitely in order)
  11. Try to give myself even just 10 minutes a day to catch up on the news (something I feel forever behind in)
  12. Have more fun with my wardrobe. I have SO many great clothes, but I tend to rely on old faithfuls like my favorite American Apparel v-necks and skinny jeans.
  13. Sleep. I think somewhere between 1.5 hours of commuting everyday, an 8-5 job, a decent exercise routine, studying for a potential career in real estate, and of course all of the other elements that go into my days, I've come to definitely require my 8 hrs of sleep a night to be at my best.
It feels great to get these down on paper. What are your short term goals?

Monday, April 11, 2011

Weekend Snapshots

After a particularly draining week in the office, I felt that this past weekend would be an ideal one to head up the incredible California coast to visit my sister in San Luis Obispo. Though my visit was short and sweet, it was filled with amazing landscapes, perfect weather, good food, relaxation, and plenty of laughter with loved ones. Below are a few of the captured images from my mini vay-cay.

latte stop in Santa Barbara  

 manfriend admiring his new mermaid




sighhhhh.. happy place


 can you spot the butterfly?

 prettiest hiking trail ever




my adorable sister and her boyfriend conquering the rock

Friday, April 8, 2011

Pretty in Braids

I currently can't get enough of all these flirty variations of the classic braid.  I've always thought braids could look so effortlessly charming and graceful with minimal time to fuss. A little moroccanoil in damp hair for shine, a few elastics and maybe some bobby pins, and the options are limitless. 





(All images courtesy of Pinterest)

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Barefoot

Today was Toms annual "One Day Without Shoes.” The goal of the organization is to raise awareness of the impact a pair of shoes can have on a child's life by going barefoot for one day. With participants from all over the world, I love that the cause is so unique, important, and easy to contribute to. The company promises to give a pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair purchased. I see it as a win win situation given that their shoes are inexplicably comfortable, simple and durable, and of course who doesn’t want to help out a child in need.  Kudos to Tom's for an awesome mission and an annual event that never fails to gain support and spread knowledge.