adore to adorn

Holiday Season + Freshly Picked Giveaway!

2016-11-30T12:40:00.003-08:00

And just like that, we're in the midst of the holidays! I hope you enjoyed your long Thanksgiving weekend.

Thankfully, Thanksgiving was a success for us and for the second year in a row, we stayed local to San Francisco! All of that means the only driving we did was to see family and friends and that we enjoyed the quietness of the city.

Another highlight for us was visiting the Christmas tree lot. It's becoming a tradition for us to get our tree the day after Christmas and decorate the tree while we drink cider, hot chocolate and eat freshly baked cookies.

Of course, compared to last year when little B was just a baby and just discovering the world around him, it was so much more fun to see him more interactive and curious. He is fascinated more than ever by the feel of the tree (still prickly to him) and the ornaments that hang ever so delicately on the branches. I'm curious myself to find out what happens when presents start showing up underneath the tree!

As a first-time parent, I'm always appreciative of how much growth I see in little B. Even more so is seeing him grow physically. Although he's always been a little guy, when I see him growing fast, I am grateful that I can see it happen before my eyes. There's nothing like the value of having a happy and healthy child.

This growth is a huge reason why I love companies and products like Freshly Picked. As most mamas know, these leather moccasins are a huge hit. They are easy for tots to walk in, easy to put on and take off, and best of all - they allow room for feet to grow. In fact, most parents choose soft sole shoes for those same reasons.

You may have caught my post on Instagram about the Cyber Monday sale, but there's more! As part of a fun collaboration with Freshly Picked, I'm giving one of my lucky readers a free pair of moccasins! See more details below for details to enter. Enter for you or enter for someone you know with a baby! I can guarantee these moccs are going to be a hit for the family. Good luck!!

GIVEAWAY TIME!

To enter the Freshly Picked Giveaway, please:

Visit my Instagram page, follow AND like this photo
Follow Freshly Picked on Instagram too

Some extra details:

Followers will be verified in order to win the giveaway
Selected winner must not have won any Freshly Picked giveaway within the last 60 days
US residents only at this time, please!
Giveaway ends DECEMBER 3, 201

GOOD LUCK!

Five Years Later...

2016-10-07T11:40:00.001-07:00

Today is the FIFTH wedding anniversary for my husband and me. We have finally surpassed the number of years we dated (four, in case you were wondering).

To be honest, I had no plans to post. But, I realized, I would skip my personal tradition of reflection if I didn't write this. I love looking back at the old posts and seeing what I thought and what I learned from my marriage (year four, year three, year two, year one). While today's post may not apply to you or even be of interest, I hope you find some entertainment or some wisdom instead.

We care more about each other than ever before. Ugh. I know. Sappy. BUT, give me a chance to explain. Obviously, having a child changes dynamics between us. There's another human being that supersedes us in a lot of ways. But, the result of having a child means we have to take extra care about other things. We are more mindful when we speak to each other. We are more attentive to the conversations. We care more about each other's personal well-being (not just for the sake of taking care of our rambunctious toddler, but for our own mental health and identity). We didn't specifically plan this, but it happened organically as we discovered what we needed from each other. Time is precious. We only have so much of it (with each other) at the end of the day. So we have to treat our time together as two with as much care as other parts of our day when we're together as three.
We're "getting old," but we're OK with that. Obviously, we have a (young) kid so we already skip a lot of late nights out with friends or parties or other things that we used to do.

(Although, this lifestyle really isn't too far from our pre-parenthood reality).

BUT, now, we're tired by 8pm, we would rather watch a re-run of The Big Bang Theory than pay attention to a movie we haven't seen, and our bodies are feeling the affects of getting older ("What do you mean we can't/shouldn't eat that entire piece of cheesecake?," "My hip hurts," "My allergies are slowly killing me.") But, hey, we're getting older together so we can ache together. And laugh about it, together.
We still remind each other to do a lot of the same things. After living together for several years, and being together for almost a decade (!!!), you'd think certain things wouldn't need to be asked. But, you'd be wrong. At least for us. Sometimes, the full bag of garbage needs a friendly reminder to be taken out. Sometimes, a request to make the bed better needs to be said. And sometimes, even when we know the result of what will happen, we ask each other what we want for dinner where we know he'll say "what do you want?" and I'll say, "I dunno, what do you feel like?" and we'll stare at each other at how many times this same conversation has been had.
Savor the date nights. Because, as a group of three, without close family nearby, and a working family budget (where a babysitter may not be a financial option ALL the time), date nights are hard to come by. We haven't gone on as many date nights as we used to. In fact, I can probably count them on one hand. And as I perused my photos to see what photo of "just the two of us" I could use, I discovered there were hardly any in the recent months. So, we clearly need to work on this one in the upcoming year. But, really, they are treasured nights.
Laughter has always been, is, and will always be the best medicine. Life gets complicated whether you're married or not. But, being together for as long as we have means we have discovered a few things that help us get through some rough(er) waters. This past year, we navigated through some tricky times that we had to face together as a family unit (a huge factor as to the inactivity on this little ol' blog). But, after all was said and done, we persevered. We grew stronger and we appreciated what we had as a family even more than before. And having a good laugh about things certainly quells any negativity.

As I always say, my life is made so much more special with this man beside me. We have grown so much since we first met, as individuals and as a couple. I'm incredibly grateful for this time together.

Happy Anniversary to the most positive, goofiest, humblest, most hard-working man I married.

Falling

2016-09-08T11:48:00.000-07:00

Suede Jacket: similar, T-shirt: Target, Skirt: H&M (similar), Sneakers: Converse, Sunglasses: Karen Walker

You guys, I'm a slacker (for lack of a better term).

I had dreams for this blog of mine. (Naturally.)

But, as life would have it I focused my attention elsewhere - despite my desire to post. I became "one of those" bloggers. You know the kind. The sporadic, apologetic, blogger who means well, but ends up falling off the radar.

Well, I won't say that I am going to "get back at it" since my life is at a transition point. I'm actually getting into another "new normal." I'm becoming a "working mom" rather than an exclusive "stay at home mom." Big news for my little world.

I am going to figure out what all of this means. Yea, pretty cliché, but that's where I'm at nowadays.

Conveniently, my post coincides with the change from summer to fall. I realize we aren't officially in the fall season, but most of us can agree that once Labor Day passes we are in fall, right? My friend helped me feel better about my transition when she reminded me how all of life's changes are like seasons. We just transition from one season to another.

So, I have fears. I have doubts. But, I have excitement, too.

In the meantime, here's a fun, flirty, but simple look. Thanks to Stephanie Marilee Tucker for these shots from (what feels like) long ago days. But, the vibe is spot on with this post.

Mama Moments

2016-05-19T22:17:00.000-07:00

When my sweet Baby B first arrived, the most challenging moments seemed like every moment. I was learning how to take care of a newborn, which included diaper changes, nursing, putting clothes on a tiny person and learning how to function with limited hours of sleep. Every. Single. Thing. Was. New.

No matter how much I thought I was prepared, there was nothing like the "real thing."

But, as so often happens, I felt more confident and grew into a stronger person as time ticked on.

Still, one of the biggest hurdles I faced during my baby's first year was finding time to take care of myself. Suddenly, leaving for just an hour or two wasn't as simple as it sounded. I was (and still am) a nursing mother so, quite literally, my baby relies on me as a food supply.

Just like the baby had to learn to nurse, he also had to learn to take a bottle while I was gone. I didn't realize that the baby had a preference for bottles. And that preference makes the idea of spending time away that much more challenging.

Thankfully, bottles like Munchkin's LATCH mimics the feel of a baby nursing so moms (like me) looking to spend some quality me time don't have to worry as much while we're gone.

The bottle eases the transition from breast to bottle, creating a better latch and pumps milk like the breast. The blue valve on the bottom even helps reduce the symptoms of colic, which is one of those "baby things" where we don't realize how bad "bad" really is. Until it happens.

And since we're being real here, as any nursing mother knows, nursing pads are a MUST. So Munchkin LATCH didn't leave any mama behind with these pads. I have never had to worry about an embarrassing situation while out and about. They are thinner than other nursing pads I've tried, which really make more of a difference than I could ever know.

So while I had the fortune to try Munchkin LATCH with surprisingly good results, the ultimate goal has always been to make sure that baby and mama are BOTH happy and going to be OK.

It's OK to take time out for yourself to do things for yourself.

It's OK to feel selfish.

It's OK to feel like you need a break from being a mother.

And for me, that time is (always) well spent with my BFF, coffee, and a good book.

I can't wait for my next date with the two of them. Knowing the baby boy will be well taken care of is half the battle.

Thanks to Munchkin for partnering on this post. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Nitty Gritty

2016-05-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

V-neck tee shirt, Denim: J. Brand, Boots: H&M (similar), Accessories: Karen Walker sunglasses, Forever 21 hat

When it comes down to basics, this is it. I've been in a major minimalist mood for the past year or so. Basically since my baby boy was born. If you knew me before, I was all about the special accessories. But, there's nothing practical about statement necklaces, silky anything or tripping over strappy heels. At least not when you're around a grab-anything-put-it-my-mouth kiddo all day. (I'm sure this will change once the kiddo is less interested in his mommy and I'll miss this time of my life.)

The funny thing is, I used to think I would never change my style. But, perhaps the style evolution is about the evolution of my life and as a result, I'm adapting my style towards my new life. I'm more aware of my sense of self and my body (even though that's changing too since I'm nursing and still feeling a bit "soft" from not working out as much as before) and trying trends that really work with my wardrobe, rather than forcing trends to fit my wardrobe.

Don't get me wrong, I still love the eclectic vibe. But, I'm more selective about what I do. I'm willing to invest in long term pieces rather than paying for fast purchases that I see in the stores as I walk by. Hence, that whole capsule thing I talked about - we'll get there I'm sure.

The great thing is I have this blog to see my evolution. Even cringe at them. And continue to grow and change.

photos by Stephanie Marilee Tucker

Weekend Wrapup

2016-05-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

"My weekend felt way too long," said no one ever.

While my weekends (and hell, my weeks for that matter) are not earth shattering exciting, they are filled with family and friends that make my world go round.

I have spent many a thought wondering why my life didn't look like another's and I always end up at the same place - realizing how ungrateful I sounded and how my life is (actually) quite wonderful in its own way.

I spent this past weekend:

doing laundry
working out
running errands
meeting friends
grabbing groceries
eating takeout
cleaning and tidying up
not cleaning and tidying up
watching Snapchats for way too long than I care to admit
surfing the web

I mean...what more can I ask for, right?

I've walked by this block SO many times, but just recently appreciated its beauty

So I "stole" this shot from my own Snapchat, but really...there's something so charming about this view, don't you think?

I never tire of a coffee shot - especially when it shows off a Le Creuset mug and saucer.

Who doesn't want a photo of their dessert?

Does this even need a caption?

Keep It Off The Shoulder

2016-05-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

Dress: Who What Wear x Target (similar), Denim jacket, Flats: Chanel, Accessories: Karen Walker sunglasses, Tory Burch cross body

Frankly, when it comes to style and shopping, I've been quite the frugal fashionista. I was on my quest to build a capsule, but that process has actually been a slow one for me. My body isn't in the shape I want it to be in (yet) so I haven't felt the urge to invest in any clothing that I may not want to wear later.

However, I "splurged" when it came to this off the shoulder dress in the recent Who What Wear x Target collection. Availability seems to come and go in the stores, but I bought mine earlier during its release.

With my current lifestyle - chasing after a toddler, wiping drool and catching drool everywhere - I need things that I don't need to fuss over. The fabric is 95% cotton and 5% spandex, which is a huge plus since that means it's low maintenance, breathable and easy to wear. Plus, it's that trend that keeps on trending - the off the shoulder look.

And, you can't really hate on an outfit that you can feel put together in with a classic denim jacket and some classic Chanel flats, right?

photos by Stephanie Marilee Tucker

Hello, It's Me

2016-05-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

Hello.
Bonjour.
Hola.
Ciao.
Ni Hao.
Aloha.

It's a bit strange for me to write right now. I took such a long break from the blogging world that I almost feel like an old person trying a young person's game.

Social media moves fast.

I sit here wondering where to begin. Do I explain where I've been? Do I ignore the fact that I last wrote months ago? Do I keep on going as if things are just as they were?

Quite simply, I took a digital detox. Part of this was accidental and part of it became intentional. The break first began with personal/family issues that came up and literally took my attention away. Then, when things settled down, I felt like I needed a complete reset.

I didn't like that I kept focusing on the negative (of my real life and my virtual life). I felt like I was forcing myself to do something that I used to enjoy. I felt like I had to "keep up" in order to be relevant. And this was just the superficial side of things.

It was exhausting.

I wouldn't categorize this as "burn out" though. It wasn't like I was running at full force before this detox. But, I felt like if I didn't allow myself to reset then I would burn out.

Despite what sounds like a clear struggle, I am in a better place and I am managing my expectations a lot better, too.

This better place in life really has to do with my detox. The break from the virtual world allowed me to refocus and to literally live my life without thinking about capturing everything in order to write about it. I stopped thinking about living and just started living.

I also found my inspiration again.

I had a lot of ideas running about what I would do with this blog. I still do.

As for the future posts, I hope you'll enjoy them as they come along. I've still got those goals in mind and some fun outfits ahead.

See you soon!

The Year of the Monkey

2016-02-08T19:46:00.000-08:00

Uncle Goose Chinese blocks, Baby Gap pants and onesie

Last year, I celebrated Chinese New Year with baby B growing on the inside. Now, he's a budding baby with growing opinions and a growing curiosity.

I gave him his first "lai see" and he was instantly intrigued. He fumbled with it between his hands and put the envelope in his mouth. He looked at it for a long time. And then he threw it. It was so funny.

I know I won't have the answers to all his questions about the Chinese culture, but what I don't know we can learn together. And that actually sounds pretty fun.

Happy Lunar New Year!

P.S. Those baby toes though...

Superheroes

2016-02-01T07:00:00.000-08:00

Vintage black coat (similar), H&M Kids chambray shirt (similar), J. Brand waxed denim, Nike sneakers, Accessories: Mirrored aviator sunglasses , plaid blanket scarf, Mansur Gavriel tote

Here we go...the second month of the new year.

I know...I roll my eyes at myself over how much I lament on the passing of time, but somehow I never get over the fact that time moves ever so quickly. I feel like all I do is stay sane enough to "keep up." Do you ever feel like that?

I got quiet on the blogging front when the family came down with the case of the cold. One by one, we were all taken out. The last of us to catch it was baby B. As a new mom, this was my first time dealing with an ill baby. And it wasn't even bad! A slight cough. Runny nose. Cranky attitude. Overall, it was nothing compared to how I hear it could be. BUT, the caveat was that I was also sick. And...welllll...that's a whole new ball game. The days of just lying in bed, watching Netflix and sleeping whenever I want are simply memories now. Like the commercial says, "moms don't take sick days." Now, I have to hatch a new battle plan for sick days.

All this "down time" in the house left me pondering on many thoughts. On the blog. On my views on parenting. On my life as a whole. Even though I'm more than halfway through baby B's first year of life, I'm only just getting the mother title down. It took all of my energy to roll out of the house, throw on this blanket scarf and feel put together...let alone look it. I trust that I'll get to a balancing act that will work for me. Hopefully sooner than later. But, until then please bare with me.

Looking at some blogging moms, I feel like they're heroes. They seem to "do it all."

{some of my faves: Oh Joy, Love Taza, The Daybook, A Cup of Jo}

Oh yes, I realize the moments posted are moments filtered. But, it's still admirable.

And the moms who I know personally who care for more than one baby, who work and take care of their babies and those who have to do it on their own...well they're my superheroes.

Simply put, you all rock. If I'm half of what I see in all of you then I'm on the right track.

The Capsule

2016-01-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

Karen Walker sunglasses, NYX Monte Carlo lip color

As I said before I'm not much of a resolutions gal, but I love goals and attributes that allow me to grow into a better person. One of the goals I'm working on this year is to be a savvier shopper.

When I started this blog I thought I would share how I shop to readers. But, like other (blogger) things, I didn't get around to it and then a slew of other bloggers were sharing their stories and I felt like I missed the boat.

Yet, as the saying goes, it's never too late. So I'm going to build a clothing capsule and share my shopping journey with you. I'll share what I want in my capsule, why I think things will work for my lifestyle and how this can work for styles of all ages.

You may have noticed on this blog that I repeat things in my closet often. You can see this pattern most notably in my year-end round ups (here and here). I don't do this simply for the sake of saving money, but because I truly love the versatility of apparel. Even if the versatility isn't obvious.

SO I think the notion of a clothing capsule is up my alley. Also, the notion of a clothing capsule will keep me focused, refined and accountable.

I've always been a lover of fashion and trying out new trends and styles, but I'm just growing into a more adult taste. Being a mother now, I'm finding out a new definition of versatility. I need items that I can be comfortable, easy to throw on, easy to throw off and still be chic. So when it comes to finding new clothes, I am keeping these things in mind.

Have you ever created a clothing capsule? I'm so intrigued to commit to this personal challenge and I'd love to know what you think (and if you did this already, then how was this experience for you?).

3-in-1

2016-01-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

Nike uptown-3-in-1 parka, Stripe long-sleeve t-shirt, Forever 21 denim, Ankle boots, UO beanie

I don't remember the last time I bought proper outerwear. It's been a while since SF has had really cold, rainy weather. So I just went through last season wearing layers and old coats. But, El Nino has arrived and this 3-in-1 parka is serving its purpose. I'm enjoying the 3-in-1 style options and the sporty vibe. Plus, the hood? Roomy, covers your head and allows you to still see where you're walking. Legit in the rain lemme tell ya.

Eats

2016-01-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

image via my Instagram at Mamacita

Food.

So good.

Living in SF means I constantly have access to amazing eats. In fact, keeping up with said amazing eats can be exhausting. Pre-baby, the husband and I would frequent many restaurants on our shared list of "restaurants to eat at." So original, right?

However, post-baby meant dropping that list (for now). Our list still grows, but we're figuring out the best-for-us-sorta-baby-friendly spots in SF.

So why am I bringing food up now? Well, it's one of those topics that I always wanted to venture out on this blog. Not because I'm some amazing cook or connoisseur of SF dining, but simply to share my enthusiasm with others who feel the same way. I value good ingredients and the efforts that go towards cooking a good meal. I like to cook and I like to eat. And while I'm perpetually perusing the web for fellow mothers who appreciate the art of cooking and the love of dining, I figured that I could share my little knowledge base as well.

It'll be a work in progress for sure. I'm going to balance my personal style with my personal take on food. A little bit of experimentation if you will.

Don't worry, I'm not trying to become a Martha Stewart here. I'll leave that to the professionals.

But, I sure am going to check off that item on my to-do list I mentioned before.

Damn good sandwich at the Deli Board

Dining and waiting for pizza at Pizzeria Delfina

Elevated comfort food at Marla Bakery

Surprise! A gifted Kitchen Aid for Christmas means an attempt at deep dish pizza at home!

2016

2016-01-04T07:00:00.000-08:00

Leather jacket, Forever 21 denim, Asos boots, Accessories: Thrifted sunglasses, buffalo plaid scarf

The first post of a new year always feels so poignant. So fresh. So inspiring.

I'm feeling really refreshed from my blogging break. I'm hoping that the things I want to accomplish on this blog actually happen though. I haven't quite made a master plan, but I have a sorta plan. That counts, right?

While I'm not much of a resolutions type person, I am dedicated towards doing things better than last year. My goal is to always be better.

How about you? New year, new you? Or new year, better you?

To be honest, I think they both sound appealing.

What a Year

2015-12-31T18:35:00.001-08:00

And just like that, it's the last day of December and the last day of 2015. This year has been a whirlwind to say the least.

December has been a quiet blogging month. But, I haven't forgotten my drive for posting. I accidentally...on purpose...took a hiatus. With the husband traveling for work, a busy infant and a strong desire to be present (which I mentioned briefly here and here), I didn't let the self-imposed pressure to post get me down.

But, this blog has always been on the back of my mind. It will always be the place I come back to.

2015 has mostly been about my pregnancy and my baby boy. Of course, other things happened too. But, becoming a mother has been the priority. I went from how I envisioned being a mom to actually being one.

There were some (blogging) goals I didn't accomplish in 2015 that are automatically rolling over into 2016. Least of which are...

Posting my birth story. I have it written, but I haven't hit "publish."
Sharing so many things I learned (so far) about being a (new) mom, traveling with a baby, style while breastfeeding and having a spit-up baby and starting foods with an infant. These lifestyle/mommy topics are ventures I want to expand upon through this blog.

Regardless of the things on my to-do list that have been left unchecked, I am loving the fact that I'm living the life I have chosen.

This past Thanksgiving, I felt like so many more tragic stories popped up on the news. While none of them affected me personally, it did emphasize just how short life is. I wanted to forgo the notion of trying to attain the picture perfect moment and just appreciate every moment as they are. The months I have with baby B are flying by and soon enough, he won't be a baby anymore. So I'm relishing these full-time days I have with him.

I appreciate all of you readers who come back and comment on this little ol' blog. I appreciate the attention you give since there are so many blogs all over nowadays.

I hope you enjoyed all of 2015 and have the best start to 2016. Whatever you do and wherever you are, Happy New Year!

xoxo

Wednesday Whim - Symmetry Breakfast

2015-12-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

images via Symmetry Breakfast (Michael Zee) via Instagram

The way to a person's heart is through his stomach. That certainly can be proven by Michael Zee's Instagram feed where he showcases symmetrical breakfast plates he makes for himself and his boyfriend, Mark van Beek.

By chance one morning, Michael Zee noticed the breakfast plates he prepared (an omlette, avocado, salami and fruit juice) were symmetrical. In a move as simple as snapping a photo and posting said photo online, a social media star was born. Yet, as simple as the images appear, there is still quite a bit of prep work involved compared to his very first food photo post. Michael states that if a food item takes more than 30 minutes to make then he prepares it the night before. Otherwise, he wakes up earlier than normal to prepare the food and ensure a picture perfect meal is made. He posts the photo by 7:30am and they are out the door for the day by 8am. To keep things interesting, Michael researches global breakfast ideas to change up his menu.

More than just a devoted foodie and photographer, Michael continues this photo series because it is "...a declaration of love...both to breakfast and to Mark."

Lace-Up Flats

2015-12-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

Linen shirt: Banana Republic, Distressed denim, Lace-up flats: Gap, Accessories: Panama style hat, Karen Walker sunglasses, Lionette necklace, Mansur Gavriel tote

It seems everywhere you look in the photosphere that is blogging and Instagram, people are wearing lace-up flats. I love the look, but I was far too lazy (and busy with baby) to go through the process of (online) purchase and potential return if the fit wasn't right. But, when Gap offers their 40% deal, well, you decide the process might just be worthy of your time. Thankfully, for me, the fit was right.

Thankful Thanksgiving

2015-11-25T07:00:00.000-08:00

Old Mill Park

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. So. Crazy.

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays because the day is all about food and family/friends. While a lot of people anticipate the craze of holiday shopping with sales and deals, I'm one of the ones who likes to sit back and slowly soak in the holiday fervor that erupts.

Rather than my usual Wednesday Whim post, I wanted to take a minute to appreciate all the good and be thankful for all of it. The world has been filled with some terrible news as of late and it's easy to focus on the negative.

San Francisco City Hall - in honor of Paris

But, a holiday like Thanksgiving reminds us all that plenty of positive things do exist.

family selfie with all of us looking at the camera at the same time!

To put it simply, I'm thankful for my family. Out of everything 2015 has given me, I cherish my newly expanded family. While parenthood has been a whirlwind (to say the least), I wouldn't trade this role for anything else in the world. I know some people are not so fortunate so despite the challenges I face, I know I'm lucky to have a healthy and happy family.

Sure, there are ups and downs, but all the ups make up for all the downs. When Baby B smiles or starts to giggle, I can't help but feel immeasurable joy. When Baby B sleeps, I can't help but feel endless love for him. When Baby B cries, I can't help but feel protective of him. So all those clichés that people hear about how being a parent changes you? Yea, I would totally agree with them. It's amazing how quickly my outlook on life has changed with him in this world.

We're going to be fortunate enough to be around family and friends this year in San Francisco for B's first Thanksgiving. I didn't grow up in a traditional household, but I'm enthusiastic to start our own. Some traditions might stick and some might not, but this is a road I'm excited to pave.

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you eat to your heart's content and you enjoy being with the family and friends you're with.

In the spirit of the holiday, I hope you'll share what you're grateful for as well!

Seeing Red

2015-11-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

Camo jacket: via Ross (c/o), T-shirt: vintage, Boyfriend jeans: Old Navy, Red ankle strap heels, Accessories: Karen Walker sunglasses, Kris Nations "California" necklace, NYX Monte Carlo lip color

Red is such a powerful color. In Asian culture, the color red symbolizes good fortune and joy. During the holiday season, the color is synonymous with Christmas. And for the rest of us, the color is associated with strength, passion and love.

I haven't owned a bold red outfit that conveys such conviction of self (yet), but until that day arrives I find it appropriate to pop with accents of such a strong color.

That Spirit

2015-11-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

Multi-tier shirt: Banana Republic, Denim: DIY via Ross (similar), Boots: Asos, Accessories: Karen Walker sunglasses, NYX Monte Carlo red lip color

I'm totally getting into the holiday spirit around here. The husband and I are finalizing Thanksgiving plans, we're discussing decorations (yup...), there's a chill in the air (and in our apt...brr!) and I've got that infamous red, holiday cup in my hand.

I haven't quite transitioned the wardrobe towards winter wear yet, but this BR shirt is getting some air time until that happens. The oversize fit, the multi tiers and the crisp white color makes it a perfect throw on top. With my current lifestyle (a sometimes persnickety baby, a 10-minute morning routine and a penchant for comfort) it's perfect for the day I take a stroll around the neighborhood with Baby B. I don't have to think much about my look and it makes me feel so much more put together than I am.

Total win.

Wednesday Whim - Crane Journal

2015-11-11T13:24:00.000-08:00

all images via Cristian Marianciuc via Bored Panda

When I was in elementary school, I read Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes. The story resonated with me and I began folding origami cranes, which subsequently led to an obsession with origami in general and all the beautiful things that could be made. I haven't actually folded origami in years, but as soon as I came across Cristian Mariancjuc's work, I began to revisit that ol' hobby.

In a year-long challenge Cristian Mariancjuc has created a "crane journal" where he folds a new paper crane everyday that documents his day through colors, shadows and everything that surrounds him. Like me, Sadako's story inspired him and he felt life was passing him by and that he had shelved his creativity. For him, each crane represents a memory he can reflect on.

The dedication to his craft is admirable. Some cranes take under 30 minutes while others take much longer. There is no limitation to his cranes. Only his imagination.

To follow the end of his year-long project, check out his Instagram or Facebook.

Holiday Shopping (Already)

2015-11-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

all items found at Ross (cozy slippers and foot treatment set, blanket scarf, picture frame, "Good Morning Gorgeous" mug, lavender soy candle and designer perfume)

In just about two more weeks, holiday shopping becomes official. I'm talking about the day after Thanksgiving when stores, both physical and virtual, saturate us with deals, steals and frills.

I've been more excited for the holidays this year than any other year though. A baby can do that to you, ya know?

Usually, I'm one of the last minute shoppers. Try as I might to get an early start, I always have some gifts left to the end. This year though I've already been active in searching for gifts for people. *crossing my fingers I'll get things done earlier!* Frankly, my time isn't what it used to be so time to shop has become a luxury. I'm lucky to even get some time on the computer to window shop! I have to be more efficient than ever before. Not so surprisingly, Ross has become my one-stop shop. True story - Ross has become a great resource for gift buying.

Just last week, I found things for the gal pals in my life...

foot spa goodies with cozy slippers for my always-on-her-feet-sister-in-law.

lavender scented candle for my zen friend

designer perfume for my makeup guru friend

picture frame for my mother-in-law (inspirational quote insert optional)

I even found a couple of treats for me - a blanket scarf and a new coffee mug (hey, moms deserve some self-love too!).

I'm certainly not done, but I'm getting that head start I never made time for before. As the holidays inch closer and closer, I'll be making several more stops for the gents and maybe some more special treats for me. Tis the season, right?

Have you started on your holiday shopping?

*This post is in collaboration with Ross as their Ross Bargain Hunter program. Compensation was received but all opinions and ideas are my own.

Wednesday Whim - 363 Days of Tea

2015-11-04T07:00:00.000-08:00

all images via Ruby Silvious via Artists Inspire Artists

While I typically prefer coffee over tea, I still enjoy a good mug of tea to change things up. Normally, my used tea bags are tossed into compost and I go on about my day, but after seeing Ruby Silvious's work I'm seeing things differently.

Ruby Silvious is a graphic designer and she views tea bags as a blank canvas. She took on a project called "363 Days of Tea" this year where she draws, paints and collages art on to used tea bags. Unconventional to say the least, her work has become a journal of sorts where she documents her thoughts and feelings through art.

She's nearing the end of this project and let me just say that I plan to see this through to the end. You can follow along too on her Instagram or her Facebook page.

Happily Gray

2015-11-02T07:30:00.000-08:00

Cardigan: H&M (similar), T-shirt: old (similar), Jeans: similar, Mules: Nanette Lepore (similar), Accessories: Forever 21 hat, Karen Walker sunglasses, NYC Monte Carlo red lip shade, Marc x Marc Jacobs watch 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli

Although there has not been much fall weather over here on the West Coast, we're slowly getting there. I have patiently waited for the coolness in the air and we finally got some of it last week. I for one have welcomed the fog back with open arms in SF and I've never been happier to be gray.

Wednesday Whim - (Still) Crazy About Alice

2015-10-28T07:30:00.000-07:00

all images via Bored Panda via Adamova Marina

While Christmas is (only) 57 days away (!!) I can't help but get excited for this holiday season. After seeing these Alice in Wonderland inspired ornaments, I'm even more excited to start gathering the decorations and perhaps find some unique designs along the way.

Adamova Marina is a Russian illustrator and graphic designer. But, she refers herself as a (self taught) paper artist after she first started her Alice in Wonderland paper series two years ago. She realized the series coincided the three things she liked most: using a sharp knife, finding secondary meaning in fairy tales and symbolism in illustration.

Two years and numerous paper art projects later, Alice's tale and adventures remains a source of inspiration so she decided to incorporate the paper art into ornaments. The most magical element comes when the light shines through the ornaments and makes the images seem alive with the play on shadows.

The critical attention to detail and intricate layers of paper create visually stunning pieces of art. With a story as familiar as Alice in Wonderland, it's satisfying to see the story come to life in a new way.

At the end of November, her work will be exhibited in Norway for the Oslo Pop Up exhibition.

You can see more of her work via her Instagram, too.