I Don't Even Have a Good Excuse

I disappeared. I did. And I had just promised that I wouldn't. Gosh darn it.

Sorry folks. I really don't have a good excuse as to where I went or why I took a break... except, I will say this... I put a lot of pressure on myself with this little blog to have something to write about each and everyday that is new and different. And while coming up with ideas is not terribly hard for me, finding the time to create a post that is thoughtful, engaging, fun and pretty is another story. There have been many times where I've wanted to drop back in and just say 'hello' here, but stopped myself because I didn't have a weeks worth of posts lined up to keep the communication going. The truth is, my favorite blogs are the ones that do have a new post each and everyday. I feel like when I read what they have to say, I'm hearing from a friend. I strive to create that experience for readers here, too, but I've also realized that most of the blogs I read are created by guys and gals who work full-time for their blog. Well, I already have a full-time job, so in truth, as much as I want to keep up posting on a daily basis, I've come to the conclusion that it is ok to keep up as much as I can. I'm taking the pressure off and going back to the reason why I started this little blog, which was to give my two-cents on style, document moments of my life and basically just share what was on my mind.

And in case you are interested in a few of the things I've been up to lately, here they are in a nutshell.

Clockwise from top left:

1. I bought a house! Here she is! It was a pretty quick process. I had put an offer on one house before this one and was heartbroken when I thought I had lost the one, but in hindsight, I'm so, so, so glad this is the house I ended up with. And yes, you guessed it... there are lots of posts in the future about house details. I'm mid-reno right now, so I've got a few things to update you on already!
2. Took my annual to NYC. Gosh I love that place. It makes me feel all sorts of happy and alive.
3. Ohhhh Canada. I've taken a position with my company that has me traveling to the land up north... a lot. I love my company, but have to say this position has offered its fair share of challenges. Live and learn... and I'm learning a lot. International travel {even if it's just to our neighboring nation} is tough. Bottom line. End of story.
4. And, lastly, I've just been happy taking a step back and enjoying a calmer life. 

My Newest Obsession

Joe Fresh. If you haven't heard of it yet, you will! It is definitely my newest favorite store. While in NYC this past weekend for the Make It A Woman's Day event my colleagues and I had dinner with some of our friends from Women's Day Magazine and they recommended we make a stop at Joe Fresh on our weekend shopping extravaganza... {ok, so maybe "extravaganza" is a bit of an exaggeration.}  

Not only was the selection, store and staff awesome, the prices were even better! Don't get me wrong, I love designer labels, but due to the fact I'm a shopoholic, I need to get my fashion fix at a reasonable price. We loved it so much we made a second trip back before we left town. Think H&M/Forever21 prices, but even better quality. It is currently only in NY and NJ, but I'm hoping it makes it was to the midwest soon. 

I Heart NY

Hi folks! Sorry I was a little slow today getting back on the blog wagon! It was a FANTASTIC weekend in NYC with a lot of work and a little play. Here's a few snapshots of the weekend. I'll be sharing some of my new favorite finds later in the week, but right now I'm going to try and catch up on my zzz's after too many flight delays.

Clockwise from top left:
1. Grand Central Station. Love it! My company participated in an event with Women's Day Magazine to celebrate their 75th Anniversary. Talk about a great venue!
2. Monica Pedersen. What a doll! Monica, HGTV Designer and Entertaining Expert, has partnered with my company and is so lovely to work with.
3. Mama Mia. I love Broadway shows. I think they are amazing and the cast is so talented! Mama Mia is one of my Top 3 favorite shows for sure!
4. My great friend Kelsey. She and I were in NYC together about a month ago for another work event and have agreed we need to continue the frequent visits!

Let's Hear It For NEW YORK

How many of you now have Alicia Keys and JayZ in your head because of the title of this post? Sorry and you're welcome... it's a great song!

Source

Anywho, I'm in NYC for the weekend. I'll be back Monday to share all about the trip, my finds and inspiration.

Happy weekend, my friends!

Shop Til You Drop

I'm heading to NYC later this week for a work trip, and of course I had to add a day or two on to shop! NYC to me is like Disney World to a kid... my favorite place on earth!

The key to making the most out of a shopping day is a comfy outfit. Here's what I'm thinking:

Top: Airy blouse. Easy on and off for quick dressing room sessions.

Bottom: Colored denim. Gotta have 'em in every color for an instantly chic outfit! 

Scarf: Cashmere tissue weight. Not too hot, but keeps you warm when needed. I don't know how it does it, but it's a must!

Belt: Add a POP of color and a bit of texture with this cute suede belt.

Shoes: NYC = tons of walking! Make sure you have comfy shoes. I stick to flats and this neutral pair adds a bit of spunk with the studs.

Bag: Classic shape and color. Shoulder strap and cross-body {not pictured}... what more could you ask for?

Happy Shopping!