guest post: carly from a simple affair

Hello fabulous readers! Carly here from a simple affair.  First and foremost, how great is Julia? Ya I know, so great.  Hence why I was ecstatic and flattered when she asked me to do a post while she frolics around Europe.  I'm so jealous of her trip.

Speaking of Europe, did you know I'm an Irish dancer and that St. Patrick's Day is one of my favorite holidays of all time?  Ya smooth transition, I know.  Anyways, we are one day away from St. Patrick's Day Month (Happy Leap Day by the way! See where my priorities lie?).  Have you gotten your Shamrock Shakes yet?!

Moving on...I hope you all know about those crazy leprechauns and their pots of gold.  If you don't, Wikipedia does a great job of telling you all about those mischievous little guys.  This would be my ideal pot of gold:

salt & pepper shakers // gold leaf tray // mirror // decorative books // peace and love dinner plate // tray // chevron lamp shade

Are you with me on the gold train? What would be in your pot of gold?

And per Julia's request, here's an Irish dancing picture...well at least the get up.  I don't have too many action shots.

Get your green and gold ready folks because for this month, you're all Irish whether you like it or not!

Thanks so much for having me today, Julia!

Literally obsessed. How amazing is Carly!? Happy Leap Day everyone! I'll be back tomorrow, and will share tons of photos and stories from my trip. xo

guest post: sam of the peak of tres chic

Since I am in Paris today, I thought it would be fitting to have the always chic Sam give us all a brief history lesson in style and fashion. Parfait, n'est pas?  


Bonjour, Urban Slant readers!  This is Sam from The Peak of Tres Chic, a lifestyle blog I curate that focuses on interior design and fashion.  I am thrilled to be here posting while Julia is off traveling the world.  I just adore Urban Slant and like to live vicariously through Julia and all the other New Yorkers who get to experience the city every day. 

If it wasn't already apparent from the title of my blog, I just adore French style.  Tres chic is French for "very stylish", or "very cool."  I have always been mesmerized by how effortlessly stylish the French are. 

 Since Julia is in Europe and because I want to pay homage to beloved France, my post today focuses on the Louis-style chair.  But first, a small history lesson (I promise I won't bore you!)

Although comfort is a huge priority when purchasing furniture these days, this wasn't always the case!  In fact, it wasn't until the reign of Louis XIII that furniture actually became comfortable for the first time.  Furniture was named after the reigning monarch at the time.  In previous centuries, royalty always defined fashion and design, what was "in vogue" and what was out.  Fashion came from the top down.  It wasn't at all like today- when we often see street style represented on runways.   Lucky for us, Julia Rothman provided a visual representation of the different Louis chairs on her website.

Here's a dining room I love that features the Louis XIII chair.  

As you can see, King Louis XIII's style of chair was rigid, short in the back and square in shape.

I would reccommend using King Louis XIII style chairs at kitchen tables or at desks.  However, when decorating a more casual space, these chairs will likely be too rigid.  I would choose the more relaxed King Louis XV in rooms where people will be relaxing, watching TV, or lounging.

Next up is the King Louis XIV chair. King Louis XIV was the infamous Sun God.  During his reign, chair styles became larger to accommodate the more ornate fashions of the day.   As you can probably guess, the Louis XIV was often very ornate and opulent.   Although I had trouble tracking down a good interior representation of this chair, I thought this King Louis XIV-like chair was too gorgeous not to feature.  How wonderful is the Kelly Wearstler fabric?!

I also adore this King Louis XIV chair.  Gorgeousness, no?

The King Louis XV chair is by far my most favorite and also the most popular today.  After the death of the Sun God, French design became much simpler and quieter.  Comfort became the main priority.  Madame de Pompadour starting coming around the Palace of Versailles at this time, as a mistress to King Louis XV.  Her influence on the King and on French design was very prominent. 

Last but certainly not least, the King Louis XVI chair.  These chairs always have the fluted leg shown above in the picture.  We see a transition from the Rococco (curved back) to the Neoclassical again (straight back).  Although King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were both imprisoned and eventually killed, the Neoclassical trend they favored had a lasting impact.

 Which Louis-style chair is your favorite?  Seeing all these pretty chairs makes me want to go re-tour the Palace of Versailles.  The French had such opulent taste, then!  

I hope you enjoyed my post and weren't too bored with a small history lesson.  

Thanks again for having me, Julia!

1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8/9

Historical Information from here.

guest post: lara from simply irresistible

In honor of my Parisian adventure, I bring you Lara from the drool-worthy blog, Simply Irresistible. She is my go-to for recipes and everything in between.

I'm so happy to be here sharing one of my favorite recipes with Julia's lovely readers (but let's be honest, I'd much rather be traveling the world with Julia). Le sigh. I promise that with the below recipe, you'll feel like you're far from home...  like in a cottage in the Swiss Alps or in a small cafe among a Parisian

street. 

white wine + cheese fondue

Fondue is one of the easiest meals of all time

With that being said, it's also a fancy meal

It has a rich taste & a social presentation

Meant to be shared with someone special

it's my go to meal for romantic dates at home

or for a winter time girls night

here's what you'll need... 
1 cup dry white wine
1/2 pound shredded swiss cheese
1/2 pound shredded gruyere cheese
2 1/2 tablespoons flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
a pinch of nutmeg

cut into bite size pieces
french bread
raw vegetables
green apples

here's what to do... 
Simmer wine in fondue pot. Slowly add shredded cheeses, allowing them
to melt into the wine before adding the next handful. Once all the
cheese has melted, add in flour, salt, and nutmeg. Whisk everything
together. Keep over a low flame to serve.


Wow. I'm drooling. This is perfection. Thank you Lara! xo

Also, please find me on Elembee today posting about my favorite patterns and how to incorporate them into your life. xo

Hej Copenhagen!

In Copenhagen having a quick morning bite before strolling the Stroget.

Have a good weekend!

guest post: copenhagen favorites

Today I leave France (only for a few days) to explore Copenhagen! My good friend from school studied abroad there, so I knew she was perfect for this post. Thanks Alessandra! Be sure to follow her blog too -- The Orange Lens. xo

Hi Urban Slant Readers! I'm so honored to be sharing the secrets of Copenhagen, Denmark with you so that Julia is fully prepared for her upcoming trip! No doubt, she picked one of the very best cities in Europe to visit. I studied abroad there in 2009 and it truly was six of the best months of college. 

Copenhagen's Top 5 Must See and Dos: 

1. Stroll down Stroget - Stroget is the longest pedestrian shopping area in Europe! While I was abroad, we frequented the likes of H&M and Zara (which Dallas didn't have at the time) and oogled the fashion forward Danish teens. The Danish are very well versed on the latest fashions and aren't afraid to flaunt the latest styles from the runway on Stroget. 

2. Feast on Fisk - If you're going to Copenhagen, you have to try this traditional Danish shot. Fisk sorta tastes like mouthwash and licorice combined but the Danes LOVE it. It's by far the cheapest way to drink in Denmark...in fact I think one shot cost something like 20 kroner which is only about $3! It's just something you have to try even though it sounds totally weird. 

3. Nibble in Nyhavn - Nyhavn is one of my favorite places in Copenhagen. This quaint harbor is home to some of the most adorable cafes and shops in Copenhagen. The canal is filled with old wooden boats some of which will never sail again but have rich history. You can also board a canal cruise from here to see the rest of the sites, particularly the famous opera house and Queen's Palace.

4. Admire Amalienborg Palace - Denmark has only of the only monarchies left in Europe. The Queen of Denmark resides in Amalienborg Palace which is filled with traditional straight-laced guards and tourists alike. One of the biggest events at the Palace is the Queen's Birthday in which Danes gather in the square to see the Queen wave at the crowd and have them sing to her. Queen Margrethe II was born on April 16th 19...(a lady never tells her age).

5. Bike the 'burbs - It's incredible expensive to own a car in Copenhagen (something like 180% tax on cars?!) so Danes prefer to bike everywhere they go. Rain, show, sleet, freezing temps...nothing stops them. They attach large carts to the front of their bikes to transport children, groceries or run errands. In fact, the bike lanes are slightly wider than the car lanes! They even have their own traffic light system on busy roads. When the weather was more bearable (read not snowing) most of us out of shape American students rented bikes for the rest of the semester and road to class and around town. Riding bikes in the suburbs is the best way to see the city and really live like a Dane. 

...I could of course go on forever about Tivoli Gardens, the breweries, day-tripping to Malmo, Sweden, the all you can drink bars, the "other country" of Christiania, the Little Mermaid...but I'm sure Julia will have a full post to document her adventures when she returns. I should leave some things for her to tell you about.

3 Reasons Why It's the Coolest City in Europe: 

1. Everyone speaks English (yay!) and Danish. The only words you need to know to "fit in" are hej which means Hey! (pronounced - Hi), hej hejwhich means Bye! (prononced hi hi) and tak which means "thank you" (pronounced t-a-k with a long a). 

2. Danes are super fit and healthy (duh! because they bike everywhere) and Denmark is considered the happiest country in the world! What's not to love about that!

3. Copenhagen is very traveler friendly. I don't think I took a cab anywhere more than once! The buses, trains, and subways (not to mention, bikes!) are so easy to navigate that I never had a problem getting around.

...can we also talk about the waffle snack stands? 

Miss Julia, I wish you all the best on your European adventure and I truly hope you love Copenhagen as much as I do.

guest post: lesley from six twelve place

Today I bring you Lesley from the always stylish blog SIX TWELVE PLACE. She is one of my daily reads, and I just love that she is from Texas, but living in Chicago! 


Move over stacking bangles, cuffs are making a big statement!  The cuff bracelet is a trend I am absolutely loving- it is such a simple but versatile accessory.  You can add a cuff with a weathered feel to your boho looks or pair a simple, polished one with your chic, tailored pieces and voilà- Instant put togetherness {technical fashion speak}.  True story- just check out the gals below and then make sure you add one to your accessory collection soon!

SHOP THE TREND: Pave / U Cuff / Rose Gold  Bone / Leopard / Arrow / Simple Plaid / Snakeskin / Drops

IMAGES: 1/ 2/ 3/ 4

Thank you Lesley! Can't wait to shop these looks when I'm back from Europe! xo

bonjour paris!

I've been in Paris only a few hours, and I'm already 100% content. This is my happy place. You know, the place you dream about that brings you complete relaxation and swirls of happiness in your stomach? This is it. 

I lived here in college. 

I fell in love.

I come back every year to get my fill, and I never want to leave.

Something about the winding cobblestone streets, the enchanting lights, the view from Montmartre at night, the cafés, oh and the shopping.

My mission this time around is to NOT buy this bag. Seriously. I want it. I must resist. 

Look at how perfect it is.

But let's play a little game.

If I did lose my marbles, fall into a LARGE sum of money, and turn into a Parisian woman...

Which color should I buy? 

I'm torn between black and nude. 

Until then...bisous! 

bon voyage!

Hope you all had a fabulous (hopefully 3-day) weekend! I had a friend in town, and we had a blast galavanting around the city, enjoying good meals, and relaxing. 

Now, I'm attempting to pack everything I need for eight days in France/Denmark! 

I wish my packing look liked this.

sigh.

I picture myself like this in France.

Like this in Denmark.

And wishing I could fly like this.

I'll be checking in on the blogosphere periodically, but will otherwise be in lala land. Don't fear -- I've got some AMAZING guest posts lined up through next Wednesday that I hope you all will come back and check out.

Until then...j'espère que vous avez une bonne semaine! bisous.

final leap of faith: yours truly

For the past few weeks I’ve been running the Leap of Faith series. Why? Well, I was getting ready to take my own leap of faith, and needed a nudge in the right direction.

So what’s my big news? Well, today is my last day at my desk job. Wait, what?! Okay, okay here is my story – the abbreviated version (this post will be longer than usual, so hopefully you stay until the end when I share some super fun news).

In college I majored in Advertising (account track) with a minor in French. I chose advertising as a way to explore creativity and business. I minored in French because I’ve always loved the language and culture and knew I wanted to study abroad – which I did my junior year. Less  than two weeks after graduation, I packed up my life in Dallas, made a pit stop back home in Chicago, and then moved to NYC to be an Assistant Account Executive at a large advertising agency (what I thought to be a dream job). 

Soon after starting, I knew something wasn’t right. Honestly, I think I knew before I even accepted the job it wasn’t for me. I felt very pigeon-holed by my major, and thought that I had to take the first job that came my way. I felt very blessed to graduate with a job, but always knew In the back of my mind that it wasn’t the right fit. Soon after moving to NYC, I felt very lost in my day-to-day routine, and dreaded going to work in the morning, ultimately knowing I would go home every night unfulfilled. 

One piece of advice that someone gave me was to look at your boss, and if you didn’t want to be where they are in a few years, then you should re-evaluate what you’re doing. I did this, and immediately panicked. I knew something had to change.

After months of deliberation, networking, blogging and late night phone calls to my parents, I stumbled across a great opportunity that I couldn’t pass up.

After a much needed European vacation next week, I will officially be an Associate of…

Insert SERIOUS happy dance.

I decided that life was entirely too short to not be doing what you love. I love weddings, social media, and marketing. I’ll be incorporating all of these passions while assisting Tamra. It’s still surreal to me that this is actually happening.

Talk about a leap of faith. I have no idea what my future holds in the long term, but my short-term plan is shaping to be pretty fabulous (and filled with cake, lots of cake).

No, I’m not starting my own company. Or running for President. Or writing the next Hunger Games Trilogy (well not yet anyways). But I am finally listening to the voice inside me that was screaming for a change, and I am taking a giant step in the direction of my dreams.

I hope that this series has inspired all of you to think about your passions in life, and how you want to live. The blogging world can be overwhelming at times when you feel like you’re surrounded by women who have it all. I take it all with a grain of salt, and realize that these women are successful because of their ambition, determination, work ethic and passion for what they do.

I can’t wait to keep you all updated on my life over the next few months, and I hope you all continue to stay on this blogging journey with me.  

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. I'll be galavanting around Europe for the next week or so, so stay tuned for some fabulous guest posts. xo

leap of faith: melissa

As promised this morning, here is another leap of faith story! I hope you are all feeling inspired and motivated like me. It's been such a fun series to put together. Stay tuned for a HUGE announcement tomorrow. xo

What did you major in in college / what was your first job out of college?

I majored in Marketing and English at the University of Notre Dame.  Little did I know that the combination would be a perfect foundation for starting my own freelance writing business, Melrose Street Custom Content!  My first job out of college was at a media agency where I did search marketing and magazine advertising planning/buying.  I loved learning all about magazines--the business side, editorial side, readers, and content.

How long did it take to realize it wasn't for you? What were the initial signs of "help, get me out of here!"? 

I worked at the company for about 5 1/2 years, which sounds like a long time, but I was constantly challenged through rotations to new accounts, a promotion, and new team members (though sometimes it was a little too "challenging" as far as demanding deadlines and lots of stress).  After about 4 years there, I felt the need to write more and be creative.  In thinking about my career path, I came to the realization that I didn't really want my boss's job... it was time to strive for something different.

What was the first thing you did after you left your job? Scream?

I quit in December, so at first it felt like an extended holiday vacation, but after a little bit of celebrating, I dove into marketing.  I told everyone I knew about my new business via emails, blog posts, social media, and LinkedIn.  I had already established the business side (registration, a website, logo, business cards, etc), so it was time to spread the word.

What sort of "homework" did you do before turning your passion into a career?

Back in 2010, I started working towards a Master's in Writing and Publishing at DePaul University (I'll graduate this spring!).  I created a blog,Inspiration and Rough Drafts, as a creative outlet and a space to exercise my writing skills.  I also joined Chicago Women in Publishing, took an online course called Freelance Writer's Blast-off, and read everything I could about freelancing and starting your own business.

How long have you been working for yourself?

In early 2011, I went to an event hosted by Chicago Women in Publishing and was completely inspired to venture into the world of freelancing.  At that point, I worked to set up the business, but I didn't actually go out on my own until I quit my job in December 2011.

What is the scariest thing about doing what you did?

Leaving behind the salary, benefits, and that sense of security.  It's a big leap of faith, and as much as it's fun to dream, I had to consider the practical side.  (I did a lot of praying, discussing, and number-crunching with my husband!  I couldn't have made the leap without knowing he was on board, and I am so thankful for all his support.)  Other scary parts: the uncertainty of not always knowing what to do... and facing the possibility of rejection and failure.

Do you ever regret leaving your day job? 

Not yet!  Life is super busy right now, and some days are really tough, but I am happy with the choice I made... I'm following my dream!

What is your #1 piece of advice to people scared to follow their dreams in fear of failure?

Consider the worst case and best case scenario... you'll find that the benefits of the best case scenario often outweigh the negatives of the worst case.  Take the first step and keep moving forward.  And don't be afraid to lean on other people for support--your family, friends, or other small business owners.

leap of faith: roxy from my cup of te/society social

You've probably noticed a theme this week -- tons of leaps of faith! Why? Because I love all of these women, and they are inspiring me so much, that I just had to share their stories with you. 

Today I'm honored to be featuring one of my mentors and newest friends in NYC - Roxy! You might know her from this post, or this post, or even this post. I have a bit of an obsession with her business - Society Social. Best part? She is as sweet and cheery in person as her website. She is an inspiration to us all to pop the champagne and live your best life every day. 

Stay tuned -- I'll be featuring another leap of faith this afternoon. Hint Hint: tomorrow I'm making a HUGE announcement. 

What did you major in college/what was your first job out of college? 

I majored in Business Management with a concentration in Marketing and minored in French at North Carolina State University. I went on to grad school at Parsons The New School for Design in NYC. My inspiring professors and amazing internships convinced me I was meant to be on the business side of fashion and immediately after graduating I was accepted into the executive training program at a major department store. Basically it's the fast track to becoming a fashion buyer!

How long did it take to realize it wasn't for you? What were the initial signs of "help! get me out of here!"?
I gave it a good two years. I really wanted it to work, but the fit just wasn't right. With the economy in the tank, they cut traveling so I was stuck in the office number crunching. That was it. Creatively, I felt like I died. And I could not see myself in my boss' position in 20 years. She was pretty miserable. That's how you know.  

What was the first thing you did after you left your job? scream? cry? take a trip?
It felt so good to peace out on "the man." I basically skipped out of the corporate office then immediately packed up for a solo beach trip to clear my head. Nothing but a good read and the carolina shore. It was re-energizing and a great time to think about the re-direction of my life and career.  

What sort of "homework" did you do before turning your passion into a career? (masters program, networking, online research etc)?
Honestly after being honed in on one thing that you are positive you are meant to be doing, it's intensely disorienting when it doesn't work out. I took about a year to regroup and refocus; my blog, My Cup of Te, was a big part of that. I feel like this description in the about section of my blog explains just how much it really brought me back to life and how it helped me realize what I was most passionate about.

"I started this blog right after escaping the soul-deadening doldrums of my claustrophobic cubicle, in hopes of re-discovering all I felt I had lost, the most vital parts of my true self, the living, breathing parts that make up me, and the parts that are unmistakably My Cup of Te. Here at My Cup of Te, I revel in all things inspiring and happiness-inducing! Things that spark the imagination, awaken a dream, or simply produce a smile!  I truly hope that you enjoy My Cup of Te, but most importantly, I hope that you’ve found yours." 

How long have you been working for yourself?
I launched my business, Society Social, in August 2011 so about 5 months! It's definitely not even close to easy, but I can't complain. I love it!

What is the scariest thing about doing what you did?

What I did in leaving my job was definitely not the scary thing. Sure it was a little nerve-racking giving up a stable salary and benefits, but truly the most terrifying thing is not finding work that doesn't feel like work! I want to "play" the rest of my life :)

Do you ever regret leaving your day job?

NEVER! (insert happy dance) 

What is your #1 piece of advice to people scared to follow their dreams in fear of failure?

Don’t focus on the failure, or even the success. Focus on the things you love and the rest will come. After I left my stable job, I frantically rushed around trying to figure out what it was that I wanted to do with my life.  It seemed the harder I tried to focus in on that “big idea,” the more it eluded me and being unemployed, pinching pennies didn’t help! When I finally quit worrying about “making something of myself” and started pouring my efforts into getting back in touch with all the things I love, again my blog My Cup of Te was a huge part of that, things started to fall into place. And last but not least, don’t confuse “fall into place” with hard work!

The quote is one of my daily mantras and also a Society Social founding principle. It always reminds me to just go for it whether I'm getting dressed, mixing cocktails, or going after my dreams!

Thank you thank you Roxy! xo

leap of faith: mackenzie from design darling

We all know her. 

We all love her.

I don't think she needs much of an intro, but today I bring you Mackenzie from Design Darling to share her Leap of Faith story. I stalk her blog regularly for inspiration, and I'm beyond excited for her e-Commerce site to launch in March. Her ambition and courage is extremely admirable, and I know she will be successful at whatever she does. 

What did you major in in college / what was your first job out of college?

I studied French language and literature at Bucknell University. I haven't spoken a lick of French since I graduated but it was important to me to study something I loved. A week after graduation this past May, I moved to San Francisco to intern for Rue Magazine. At the end of the summer, I moved back home to work for a PR firm in New York.

How long did it take to realize it wasn't for you? What were the initial signs of "help, get me out of here!"?

I left both positions around the two month mark but truthfully I knew in my gut much earlier that I wasn't happy (Rue because I was so far away from my family and friends, PR because I was working long hours doing something I hated). Steve Jobs said, "For the past 33 years, I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself, 'If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?' And whenever the answer has been 'no' for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something."

What was the first thing you did after you left your job? Scream?

Honestly I had a hard time believing that I'd actually done it! There were a lot of late night conversations with my parents and my boyfriend about what to do next. Once I decided that an online boutique would be my dream come true, I got to work and haven't looked back!

What sort of "homework" did you do before turning your passion into a career? 

I emailed my favorite bloggers, explained what I was thinking, and asked for advice. It was comforting and inspiring to know that so many of them were in the same boat, getting ready to launch businesses in tandem with the personal brands they had developed online. It has been such a blessing to bounce ideas off one another and cheer each other on from one milestone to the next!

How long have you been working for yourself?

I became self-employed in November, founded Design Darling LLC in December, and will launch my e-commerce boutique on March 1!

What is the scariest thing about doing what you did?

Not knowing whether it will pay off! But the support of fellow bloggers and readers has been exceptional. I wouldn't have the courage to be launching a business this early in my career without their daily encouragement!

Do you ever regret leaving your day job?

In all honesty, not for a second. That's not to say that it's all been smooth sailing but I'll take adventure over stability any day. Life is meant to be lived!

What is your #1 piece of advice to people scared to follow their dreams in fear of failure?

Start a blog to hone your aesthetic and connect with like-minded people. Reach out to people you admire — I think you'll be surprised at how many of them are willing to help. Surround yourself with people who have your best interests in mind, whether that's family and friends or an online community. And most importantly, do what you love and love what you do!

I'm inspired by bloggers, books, coffee, color, entrepreneurs, fashion, flowers, good handwriting,  interiors, magazines, and more! Thank you, Julia, for having me! xx

Holy gorgeous. Isn't that spread beautiful?? Thanks for the inspiring story Mackenzie! I know you will be a HUGE success.

happy love day!

I'm usually not one for this holiday, but this year i'm sort-of feeling it - especially since there is so much pink goodness out there right now. I round-up my favorite items below (some of which I've already purchased). 

I hope you all eat too much candy, wear pink and red head to toe, and celebrate a day devoted to love. 

Oh, and if someone sent me this card I'd love them forever. Just sayin...

wine + downton abbey = love

bag/earrings/t-shirts/pants/vase/belt/blouse/sandals/necklace

weekend recap: saying yes to the dress!

I had a MAJOR weekend.

Seriously major.

My brother's fiancée was in town to go to Kleinfelds and find a dress. AND SHE DID! It was the most perfect morning we could have asked for, and I've never seen her look more beautiful. While I obviously can't reveal the dress, just start a countdown now for October 6th -- your mouths will drop.

Oh, and Diane from the show was our consultant. It was so so so cool.

Saturday night we ate in SoHo at a cute little italian place. I got a white pizza with truffle oil - still drooling.

shaved truffles. I don't think there is ANYTHING better. 

We then stumbled across the opening of Georgetown Cupcake and each got a FREE one. Oh and they had a pink sparkly Kitchenaid mixer. I want one. 

I did a little shopping and saw The Vow with my girlfriends on Sunday. I won't give it away -- but I can really only give it a B rating. 

And I leave with you with Penny Lane just waking up from a nap. Doesn't get more precious.

friday link love. take 3.

Happy Friday my lovelies!

Can you believe I'm on my third Friday Link Love?! I'm shocked really. I'm usually too ADD to keep up a schedule, so this is great.

Blog lovin'

I had a serious interior design moment with these tables made out of old library card catalogs. 

I laughed, out loud...for a long time...again, with Coffee Talk.

My favorite blogger, Alex, re-designed her blog and I love the simplicity of the black&white.

Lara made me want to try a green smoothie. On the menu this weekend.

My need for mental healthy days was reconfirmed when The Social T posted about her recent day.

Around the Web

Seriously disturbed by Toddlers and Tiaras and the "go go juice" family. Beyond. What has happend to America?!

Spent too many hours looking at memes this week. Oops.

I made this pasta. It was delicious. And easy. 

I really want this bag. Seriously want. 

And I leave you with my words of wisdom. Courtesy of Liz. Especially fitting since she was featured on Leap of Faith this week. 

Psssst! I'm off to Kleinfelds this morning with my brothers fiancée to help her find a wedding dress. Words cannot express my excitement! Stay tuned on Monday for a recap. 

"exercise gives you endorphins, endorphins make you happy...

...happy people just don't shoot their husbands!" - Elle Woods

Only the best quote from Legally Blonde to start off this post on healthy living. 

The winter blues have officially hit, and so far, I'm defeating them!  Wait what?! Yes. I'm currently writing this post on a serious endorphin high and I couldn't be happier. I've gotten into such a good routine (as of the past two weeks...but who's counting), that I wanted to share some of my favorite tips. I'm not one to preach a good workout/heating healthy routine, because let's be honest, I have been known to devour a plate of french fries in seconds. Buttttttt, I have done some minor tweaks to my routine, and I think they're easy enough for anyone to do. 

Healthy Living

1. Bring your lunch every day - saves you SO much money (my friend calculated how much money a year you spend on lunch if you buy it everyday, $3,120! NOT OKAY) and you can control how much you eat, and what goes in your lunch because YOU are making it.
2. Keep healthy snacks at your desk and AVOID the candy jar - if you're like me, you get hungry in the afternoon and the candy jar starts staring you down. Keep healthy options like carrots, almonds and granola bars at your desk to curb your cravings and keep you full. And, we all have the co-worker who has the candy jar -- avoid at all costs. It's all down hill from there.
3. Walk when you can - it's very easy to take elevators, cabs, subways etc. They're convenient and get you there faster. However, if you plan accordingly and have the time, you'll burn a few extra cals by walking.

Exercise Tips

1. Find a buddy - it's so much easier to get motivated when you have a friend to work out with. And they can push you to go that extra mile when you want to give up.
2. USE your gym membership - I know I'm guilty of paying hundreds of dollars a year for a nice gym, and fall into patterns of only using it a few times a week. Use what you pay for -- the gym is your friend, not your enemy :-)
3. Wear cute clothes - I swear by Lululemon and Gap Body. They have the best sweat resistant clothes, and they look super cute too (some of my faves are below).

I know this post was longer than usual, I blame the endorphins. I'm just feeling so energetic and motivated! YES!

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Post inspired by: The Social T