Weekend

Happy Friday! This week actually went by fairly quickly, but then again a shorter week due to a snow will do that for ya. We had another 4 inches yesterday and now I am officially over snow and cold. I'm not a huge fan of spring in DC it's usually cold and rainy, but anything is better than this. As of late, I have no been making weekend plans and it has been really nice. We always end up doing things, but not on a schedule and let me tell you it's so refreshing. So I'll get to why you are really here and give you some of my faves from around the inter webs.


A look into Southern party and entertaining spaces here, including the fantastic cocktail tower Erin wrote about.

Channeled my classic prep side and ordered this great transitional sweater and these perfect flats.

If you frequent the cocktail menu, chances are you are seeing a drink labeled a "smash." Well I did some research and they sound delicious, especially this blackberry varietal. Enjoy!

From the logo perfection to its gorgeous packaging, cleverly names "Psycho Candy" is the perfect punchy coral hue. This is one not-so-budget friendly polish that I would actually break the bank for.

A sweet little reminder for when we get caught up in life's bullshit and negativity.

Two of my favorites: jerk spice and tacos come together in this recipe I MUST make.

It's never too early to start getting those arms into tank top ready condition.

In case you missed it, make sure you enter the JoyKatharine Knot Ring Giveaway here!



Have a great weekend! xx

image via

Weekend Recap

My weekend was consumed by one, Mr. Francis J. Underwood. I'm sad to report that I was pretty disappointed by season three. As a die hard fan of the show, I know what it's capable of. Seeing the direction it took, and having it not work out was such a bummer. Obviously I still watched the whole thing, and love me some icey Claire Underwood more than ever, but there was much to be desired. Sigh.

We popped by the mall Saturday afternoon, and I fell in love with two new fragrances. Ladies brace yourselves, as these are not impulse buys at all, but they are signature scent/investment worthy. Tom Ford's Mandarino de Amalfi is bright, citrusy, and actually unique. If you like Tory Burch's fragrance, I highly suggest this one. The Tom Ford manager at Neiman's was VERY nice and sent me home with a huge sample (helps when your boyfriend spends a little money with her in men's wallets but I digress). If you are more a fan of florals, Aerin's Rose de Grasse is superb. The scent is so light and elegant, it can make even me feel classy. Who knew?

I actually took time to prep breakfast for the week and made Skinny Western Omelet Muffins. There were super simple and I used ingredients I already had in my fridge. A serving is two, but I'll stick to one and a green smoothie this week.


I hope you all had a great weekend, and have as good a Monday as your can because let's be honest: Mondays blow.

Weekend

Happy Friday! I don't have anything amazing or quick-witted to write other than I am so freaking excited that today is REX MANNING DAY (or as the rest of you know it to be the release of season three of my beloved House of Cards)! That's my plan for the weekend. Literally that's it, and I couldn't be happier about it. So I'm going to cut to the chase with my links


The movie, pardon my French, blew but the soundtrack is on point! Download it now!

Need a pretty thing to hold your other pretty things? There's a DIY for that.

A new Goop-esque lifestyle site is coming our way in May thanks to one, Reese Witherspoon. Would you check it out?

Style Me Pretty interviewed one of my favorite artists. Smart, down to earth, and so talented, my kind of girl.

I die for this flowy, feminine top AND it's on sale!

I'm over our typical take out options, and am thrilled to try this dish at home. Later delivery man!

Moscow mule madness is here to stay especially with 14 variations on my favorite cocktail!

A little more barre via YouTube. No excuses, play like a champion.



Have a great weekend! xx


image via

Weekend + Links

Happy Friday! Ugh let me first just say, I suck. Life gets in the way and the first thing to get neglected is this blog. It's tough when you have the best of intentions to write, bring fresh content, and even have post ideas only to find you are strapped for time and energy. I have got to figure out a better way to manage my time. I know I have it, but where the heck is it?

I started meal planning, and eating well again this week. The first few weeks always seem really daunting, and always full of doubts like "can I stick to this" or "how long will this last." But negative self talk is what got me into this mess, and I'm pretty determined to kill that crap inner voice of mine. Declining numbers on the scale helps a ton. Even the small amounts count! Another thing I am so happy about that I also accomplished this week was reaching out to old friends. It's amazing how true friends will always welcome you back in.

I teamed up with some awesome blogger babes for another awesome giveaway. I want to give back to you, my readers, who have given me so much. That information is posted below this weeks links. Dear Readers, I am SO sorry. The giveaway organizer had some issues and officially cancelled the giveaway. I have removed the raffle copter and took the image off my Instagram. If you have questions, please let me know. I am very sorry for the confusion and for the sudden removal of the giveaway.

• I saw this dress on Kate, and I knew I had to have it. It's so feminine and gorgeous, perfect for spring and summer weddings! Literally cannot wait to wear it!
• A great youtube channel for at home workouts since going outside in the DC version of "Frozen" is just not going to happen.
• Tacos are a delicious, easy, meal that you can make pretty healthy depending on your ingredients. A slow cooker carnitas recipe for awesome tacos, bowls, and carnitas salad will be added to the rotation! 
• I liked this post from Julia about dressing for casual (startup) work environments. I currently work at a super casual office, and struggle with being laid back but still put together.

Have the best weekend, and see you next week! xo

Weekend + Links

It's just another weekend for us, but I get to cash in my Christmas present from the guy. I asked for a fun cooking class we could do together, and he just so happened to pick one on Valentine's Day. It's an entire menu based around peppers and chilis and I am beyond stoked! I'm actually looking forward  to down time this long weekend so I can do some cleaning, clear out the kitchen, plan meals, and do a big shop. I find knowing what I am going to be eating for the week therapeutic and removes a lot of the stress as I am an impulse snacker. Finding things that taste good, are good for me, and are portable is not always as easy as you think. I'm still holding out for healthy chips, cheeses, and bacon, but also won't hold my breath either. Let's get to the links!


I read Molly Sims' new book last night cover to cover. I was skeptical, but it actually had approachable ideas and advice. Also enjoyed the "realness" of it all.

I'm on the hunt for healthy delicious recipes, and this looks positively decadent without the guilt.

One of my goals this year was to stick to a skincare regimen. Luckily, one of my faves Sam posted her skincare routine and it was pretty insightful. Now to tailor it to my atypical skin...

A fan of Jeff Lewis? I personally love his aesthetic, and died over this home tour of his recently flipped project.

It is freaking freezing here in DC but thinking about sangria, especially this one, makes me hopeful for some warmer spring temperatures.

Things everyone can do to live a happier life. Why not?


Have ana amazing weekend! xo

image via

Weekend + Links

Yay for the weekend! Ugh and don't those croissants look divine? I'm in love with the concept of a wonderful cup of coffee and a fresh croissant on a leisurely morning. Unfortunately, most weekends we just truck it up the block to Bruegger's :( . Oh well. I am really looking forward to some down time because I have a million errands, need to do massive amounts of laundry,  and have to back for our trip to Breckenridge next week. So looks like I'm doing links again, but I'm not sure if I want to keep it on Fridays. Maybe I'll play around with that. Anyway, here are this weeks links!


I want to start every morning this way!

Thinking about streamlining your wardrobe? Erin made a great list to do it the Parisian way.

Serial obsessed? Check out these books sure to please your inner detective.

Suffer from Sunday Panic? Try these nine things to make your week go a little smoother.

Heard of a wealfie? Bloggers, including me, seem to be pretty guilty of it.

Weekend Recap

literally what I did all weekend :)

Remember how I said I needed a plan free weekend? That's exactly what I got. And man was it good for my soul. We are ALWAYS busy. Not in the glorified "we're so busy because we have so many friends/are so important" way, but the errands, chores, and events seem endless. Having a weekend of nothing almost never happens for us, heck having D home for a week is rare these days. So what did we do with all this amazing time? A lot and not much all at the same time. I got some much needed sleep that I had been deprived of for the past ten days, we cooked four meals at home (that's huge for us these days), we made it to a hockey game, browsed a few new developments on a scenic drive, saw friends, went to the store, heck we went to Costco, and most importantly spent quality time together.

I feel re-energized and ready to tackle another chaotic week for the first time in a long time. I have a great post coming to you tomorrow, so please check back and thanks again for your patience with my lackluster posting. How was your weekend?

Weekend + Links

I am in Tennessee for work and am having a great time! As per usual, we are eating insanely well. Like local figs with burratta, steak frites, and shrimp and grits well. I am thoroughly impressed with Chattanooga, it's a great little town. Let's get into some links though before I bored you off my blog.

Make sure you hit up this sale for 50% off women's and men's style, including gorgeous coats!

The simple yoga pose you should be doing to destress and leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed.

How to fake a pro blowout with this tutorial. You know you want to try it.

It's never to early to start thinking about Christmas shopping with this iconic holiday catalog.

While we're talking Christmas, get inspired by this fun twist on a holiday party & pretty pictures.

This recipe. Holy. Balls.

Have a great weekend friends! xx

image via

Weekend + Links

image via

Thinking outside the box just a tad when it comes to pumpkin with this recipe.

You guys Calypso St.Barth has been so so good lately. I crushing on this sweater, this perfect top, and this delicious scarf.

Hair falling flat? An easy tutorial on creating more volume (I needed this badly).

I want, need, love, and die for this coat!

An upper body kettle bell workout that needs to get in my life ASAP!

Have a great weekend! xx

Weekend + Links

You guys, I think I have an open weekend without ten million predetermined plans and I don't even know how to contain my excitement. I don't have much to say today so i'll let the links do the talking!


A hilarious illustrated answer to the "what's in your bag?" question/common blogger post.

Make working out more fun with some of these.

My three loves...together...in a salad...OM NOM NOM!

If you're guilt of constant self comparison and can only remember one thing, make it this.

I love these classic emerald cut stud earrings (my earrings of choice) for a timeless update.

A list of three ingredient cocktails to keep in your entertaining arsenal. Hello Moscow!


Have a great weekend friends, see you next week! xx


image via

Weekend Links: Labor Day Sales

It's finally Fri-Yay (are you guys sick of that yet?!?)! I am so looking forward to a long, lazy weekend. This Friday's links is all about the great sales going on for labor day. So get ready to shop because there are some amazing deals out there!

Anthropologie is having 20% off sale items 

Baublebar is offering 50% off select styles

Take 30% off all full priced styles at C.Wonder

Enjoy 40% off final sale items at J.Crew

Take an amazing 40-60% off everything in stores and online at J.Crew Factory

Don't miss 50% off new fall styles at Loft

Get 15% off everything at Furbish Studio with code ENDOFSUMMER

Up to 40-50% everything at Old Navy

Enjoy the long weekend, and I apologize in advance to your credit cards. xx

Weekend + Links

I am writing this as I head out the door to go visit my little sister in Charlotte. For once I think I didn't over pack which is shocking. I am looking forward to hanging out with her and her fiance, finally trying Tupelo Honey Cafe, and yes Zaxby's. Let's get to the links!


As per usual I have fallen in love with another Drybar product. This one is a texturizer, volumizer, and dry shampoo all in one! Flat hair girls rejoice!

Saw this recipe for Momofuku Milk Bar's Crack Pie and had to share as these puppies retail for over $40! Save it for someone special because it takes a bagillion steps.

Tag this under first world problems, but I have the hardest time pairing throw pillows. This nifty guide will show you pairings for every style.

Not exactly ready to succumb to the pumpkin spice latte just yet? Try this instead to get you in a fall-like mood.

I needed this DIY in my life so so bad. Time to get artsy folks!

Not making it to the beach, the cape, or Nantucket for labor day? No problem. Your one pot clambake coming right up!

And because no weekend is complete without a cocktail, here is the at home version of one of my favorite drinks ever from Charleston's Husk restaurant "Dragoon's Punch." This tea based cocktail is out of this world!


Have an amazing weekend loves, see you Monday! xx

Weekend + Links

TGIF! This picture might seem random, but currently my bathroom and bedroom are a massed pile of pretty things that need some major tlc. So this picture is fitting while I attempt to remove the clutter and chaos this weekend. 

If you haven't already heard, La Crema wines has launched a program called Virtual Vintner where you can sign up, participate in a series of questions and activities and have a say in a new wine they will be producing. If you are a wine enthusiast or looking to learn more about wine, I highly suggest it! (fyi I am a Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley you will understand once you go through it!)

Did you know Victoria Secret had an athletic wear line? Neither did I. I did some perusing and I fell in love with this, this, and this just to name a few!

Let the tortoise addiction continue with these cuties! I'd like an entire bowl full of them!

It's safe to say we're all bummed about Robin Williams, but here is a roundup of his best movie quotes to give you a little inspiration in the wake of this tragedy. 

9 Classic French recipes that any gourmand should know how to make.

Residing in, or planning a trip to the South soon? Check out the 100 Best Restaurant in the South list.

I'm having a crazy love affair with West Elm! New arrivals are so so good. Do yourself a favor and check out some of their gorgeous new decor pieces like these hurricanes, gorgeous baskets, or pretty trays. 

And what's life without a little boozey desert concoction?

Cheers to the weekend and hoping your's is a great one! xx

Weekend + Links

Hallelujah it's Friday! The week coming back from a getaway is always rough so the weekend is very much welcomed around here. I have my dear friend, former roommate, and sorority sister's wedding this weekend and it's sure to be a blast. Hope everyone has an amazing weekend, see you Monday!


What style icon Reese Witherspoon's has taught us about modern American style.

The good folks at Garden & Gun have recreated the food pyramid with their Southern Food Groups. Which one is your favorite?

Tips from a pro on how to transform your closet. Needed this badly.

Have you entered to win your trip to Hawaii along with other great prizes?

A trendy foods pesto that looks so so good!

Weekend + Links

I'm writing this post Wednesday because we're off on a very last minute long weekend to The Homestead in Virginia. Three and a half days of hot springs, spa visits, hiking, and skeet shooting does a body so so good! Hope everyone had a great week!

A list of several thriller books to feed your Gillian Flynn addiction.

Mrs. Lilien's million dollar cobbler recipe looks like a total knockout!

Gardenia body serum? Sign me up!

An easy DIY to feed your pom pom obsession!

The mistress of pain and gain shares an ab workout, they will make you hurt so good.

Have an amazing weekend! xx

Weekend + Links

I am obsessed with this home's front entry. The columns, moulding, dentil work, the 

contrasting door,and the topiaries are all perfection! Find the original here.

This week flew by in rare fashion, but I am certainly not going to knock it! We havea busy weekend ahead of us so trying to take it easy tonight before the madness begins. Let's get to those links!

If you're an Orange is the New Black fan, then you have to read this piece written by the real Larry on what actually happened vs. what you see on the show. Well written, and very entertaining.

My blogger pal Julia had a genius idea of hosting a blind wine tasting party that looked like such a good time. You can read about it here to find out how to throw one of your own!

If you work out at home or are a fan of the barre craze, try this Isometric Workout. The nature of this workout is based on holding exercises and is virtually silent!

Are you a loyal member of the Clarisonic cult? If so, you NEED to read this! Not only is it a natural disinfectant for your Clarisonic and brush head, but it has a money saving tip from a Clarisonic sales person from Neiman Marcus!

I'm sort of embarrassed to admit this, but I am scared of wearing bright lipstick. Which totally sucks because I adore the look of it. Luckily, this new liquified lipstick, gloss, stain combo was made for scaredy cats like me!

Three words: Tweed Moto Jacket. That is all.

This is my my favorite cocktail of all time. It can be hard to get at some bars, oh but man when yo can get one it's summer in a cup (I drink them year round though because I'm a rebel like that).

As per usual I am searching for my next Gone Girl. This has been said to be the European version of it.


There's still time to check out the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! You can also shop my picks here.

Weekend + Links

Happy Friday! I am so excited for a weekend sans plans (my how the times have changed!). Let's get into some links!

This shirt perfectly captures my mentality (for real).

Ever wanted to try barre, or wanted to do it on the go/at home? Try this full 55-minute barre workout on youtube, all you need is a chair, a mat, and very light hand weights!

While we're on the subject of fitness, try this evening ab circuit that was designed to be done in front of the tv! Now you can do something productive while frying your brain cells with reality tv.

BaubleBar has been KILLING IT lately, and I'm especially loving their natural stone jewelry lately. This necklace (in clear) would be the perfect additional to any look, or would make a perfect layering piece!

Ever wanted to try GlamGlow mud mask, but found the price tag a little off-putting? Have no fear this DIY version is a lot cheaper and yields a high quantity for the price!

It's no secret that I'm a sucker for sangria, but this rose´version has me that much more excited.

You guys, I'm the worst when it comes to cleaning my makeup brushes. I am actually too embarassed to say the last time I cleaned them was. Elizabeth Dehn shares her quick, easy, and all-natural tips to clean those nasty, germy brushes.

I cannot wait to try these shrimp scampi skewers! Eaten alone, atop of a big salad, or even for entertaining these look like major crowd pleasers.


Have an awesome weekend, especially my Southern Blog Society friends at this year's conference! Wish I could be in Atlanta with you! xx

{image via}

Weekend Links: Food + Wine Edition

I have to point out that this DIY bruschetta bar is the best entertaining idea ever and looks insane!

This week's links are all going to be food and beverage related. You're welcome. I get really excited about food in the summer. The variation and selection is so much better, there's grilling involved, and everything is better with the addition of fruits and veggies. So let me share with you some of my favorite food and drink related links this week.

My fave fabby lady Mrs. Lilien shared her favorite flank steak recipe and it sounds awesome (also a great inexpensive cut to entertain with, win win people!).

Gina once again kills it with zucchini tots. These look positively scrumptious. 

The Barefoot Contessa knows her booze. Her pink grapefruit margaritas sound killer and so refreshing for pool lounging or a BBQ!

Wrap your head around this: Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco. BOOM!

I live for summer peaches, the only thing better than a peach is most likely peach berry crumble.

Do you like to drink your dessert? How about a strawberry riesling slushie to cover all the bases of fruity, sweet, and boozey?

Fried chicken, while delicious, is awful for you. Try a lightened up oven fried version that looks like it doesn't suck (most of those recipes out there are just dry bread crumb crusts, bleh).

Homemade pizza is awesome. Grilled or in the oven it's always a winner. I stepped up my game a notch and made dough from scratch with this recipe. It was so easy and fast, I will never buy dough again!

Hope you have a wonderful weekend! xx

Weekend + Links

How sweet is that pineapple door knocker? I'm a sucker for whimsical details!

The best part of the week is finally upon us! The DC humidity is in full force and I have been avoiding the outdoors most of the week. I am excited for a break from it Sunday, but until then I'm planning a laid back weekend with a date night thrown in there. Let's get to the links!


Loving these summer cocktails, they all sound amazing especially the White Peach Cooler!

One of my faves Erin gave an in depth view of the monetization of her blog. If you ever wanted to know how top bloggers make money from blogging this is chock full of information.

Thinking of throwing a party or having friends over for dinner this summer? Well you're in luck! Emily shared her 8 Tips for Entertaining to keep your stress levels down and make sure you enjoy your own event!

The Tory Burch sale happening right now is so good! I'd love to pick up some classic cap toe flats, the perfect gold neutral clutch for weddings, and a great cosmetic bag since mine has seen better days!

Garden & Gun's guide to Summer in the South has me wanting to plan long weekends and getaways to discover some hidden gems.

Try something new on the grill with grilled pizza. This grilled barbecue chicken pizza is sure to please any skeptic! **I like making my grilled pizzas "white" and top with crispy prosciutto and arugula, divine!

My friend recommended this book. If you're looking for a psychological thriller this one's for you!


Hope you have an amazing weekend, friends! xx

{image via}

Weekend + Links

Hallelujah it's Friday! This is the first weekend in so many where there are virtually no plans! You don't even know how excited I am. I just need some sleep, pool, and grub in my life... oh and of course some links!

Hashtag haters this is for you!

A delicious boozy nod to the World Cup's host country.

Summer to me means barbecues, but not having a grill can be tough. I'm dying to try this slow cooker recipe to fake my way to bbq.

Many girls pine over their dream closets. I, however, pine over these.

Freshen up while you get your DIY on with one or all three of these!

One of my summer goals is working on my flexibility (the former cheerleader inside harshly judges current day Ali). Hoping these moves will help get me back on track!

Oh how I love this print. Seriously, take note people. It's a powerful message.


Have an amazing weekend! xx

{image via}