Lady in Plum

Valentines Day Outfit 2016

2016-02-12T13:40:00.000-08:00

Thoughts on Love:

Love is the most powerful thing in the world. More powerful than hate and war and destruction. Love heals all and is sought by all. There is no greater desire than to love and be loved.

Even though love ought to be celebrated everyday it's quite nice to have a designated day that allows us to intentionally recognize it and celebrating with those whom we are passionate about.

Since Valentines Day falls on a Sunday this year, my husband and I will celebrate by having breakfast at home (banana pancakes will probably be on the menu), followed by us attending church service, then I would like to surprise him by taking him indoor rock climbing at Mesa Rim. I went for the first time with some girlfriends this past week and I kept thinking, "Gosh, Karl would love this!" So, Shhhhhh...don't tell him! Then we will end the night with an early dinner at one of our favorite restaurants Farmer's Bottega in Mission Hills.

Our Valentines Day tradition: Karl waking me up with a little gift and us exchanging cards and reading them together in bed.

Above is what I will be wearing to Saturday night's double date with friends. I found that amazing DVF wrap dress at a thrift store a few years ago and I am so glad to finally put it to use. Karl was sweet enough to buy me those sexy heeled sandals at Aldo which are now on sale.

What are your plans this weekend? How do you let others know you love them?

Dress

Coat (similar here <--- the one I bought)

Heels

Wallet

No Shopping for One Year Challenge

2016-01-18T10:31:00.002-08:00

On January 15, 2015, I began my “Need Less Challenge” (#NeedLessChallenge on Instagram), which meant: no shopping for clothes, shoes or accessories for one year. The exceptions were: 1) I was able to accept gifts from others, and 2) I was able to buy gifts for others.

What led me to begin this challenge was pretty simple: I wanted to challenge myself in an area of my life that I really enjoyed, yet was unnecessary. There was not a deeper, existential meaning behind the challenge, nor was I attempting to kick some kind of intense shopping addiction. I simply wanted to see if I had the self-control needed to succeed…Turns out I did! My Need Less Challenge was successfully completed on January 15, 2016!!! Go me!

It was no surprise that this experiment of self-control allowed me to understand myself more deeply. As a psychotherapist, I often discuss the benefits of breaking away from familiar habits and routines in order to allow oneself to grow emotionally, physically, intellectually or spiritually. I was pleased to find that I had learned a few new things about my relationship with shopping…

Things I learned during the #NeedLessChallenge:

1) Shopping impulses are hormonal. Three months into the challenge, I was able to recognize that my desire to shop intensified around the time I menstruated. My increased desire to shop was directly correlated with my feelings of irritability and emotional sensitivity that accompanied my monthly flow. Interesting! It became clear to me that in the past I would have headed to the mall to emotionally “feel better” by shopping. Since I did not have that option, I had to curb that impulse in other ways, such as: cooking a healthy meal, watching interesting documentaries online or clean my house as a way to emotionally comfort myself and keep those impulses at bay.

2) Classic pieces to the rescue! I’ve realized that a great pair of skinny jeans, wide leg slacks, nude heels, a few solid colored blouses and a great fitting blazer makes the world go round. Skip the trendy pieces and invest in timeless and high-quality staples that you can mix and match. You can always jazz up a basic outfit with some statement jewelry and bold lipstick, then voila, you’ve just gone from “professional” to “happy hour chic”!

3) Events don’t require new clothes. Before the challenge, if there were a special event coming up such as a wedding or holiday party, I would immediately plan a trip to the mall and set aside cash to purchase a new outfit. Since that was no longer an option, I actually found it liberating to just head to my closet and tell myself, “Something in here will have to work!” And sure enough, I would successfully make use of some neglected dress and feel really good about not spending the extra money during a time-consuming journey at the mall. Tip: Attend a clothes swap party or simply borrow clothes from friends when you are in a rut. My friends totally helped me out and supported me every step of the way!

4) I began cutting back in other areas. When you take on a minimalist mindset it kind of permeates into all areas of you life. I quickly found myself purging my makeup collection, old files, kitchen appliances, and toiletries. I donated things that I hadn’t touched in over a year, and trust me there were bags and bags of things I parted with.

5) I took more fashion risks. Because I couldn’t shop, I needed to make do with what I had. For the sake of not wearing the exact same thing each week I became more creative in my wardrobe pairings. Occasionally, I would find inspiration from my Pinterest Style Board and attempt to recreate outfits. It became a fun little task and I really looked forward to setting out my clothes the evening before work.

6) I found other hobbies. I had no option but to spend my down time doing things other than shop. This past year I have spent more time in the gym (on my own and with friends) than ever before. Additionally, I have been spending more time in the kitchen whipping up healthy meals. Also, I’ve rediscovered my love of reading for leisure. I’ve found that a new book paired with a cute neighborhood coffee shop is the perfect way to enjoy a few hours between sessions or on the weekends.

Overall, I am glad I completed this year-long challenge. In the beginning it wasn’t easy, but gradually I was able to reset the habit of mindless consumerism and become more aware of my shopping triggers. I am happy to report that I was able to allocate the money I would have spent on clothes to pay off my student loan! Thanks to the #NeedLessChallenge I am more mindful about how I decide to spend my time and money.

If we are not intentional the world will dictate our actions and beliefs. If we live with intention we can change the world! Xo, Sheilah

I am looking for a new challenge this year. I welcome your suggestions :)

Getting More Time

2016-01-07T16:55:00.000-08:00

Image Source: Here

Have you ever thought: “Gosh, I wish I had more time.”? If you haven’t, you aren’t human. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that we don’t have enough time. Sure, some of us have to work more hours per day than others, leading us to believe that those who work less have more time to accomplish other tasks, or enjoy personal endeavors outside of work…WRONG!

Psychological research actually shows that people who are busier and have less spare time are actually the ones who are more successful at tackling extra personal and random tasks. Meaning: When we have less free time, we get more done…huh!

I have seen this phenomenon play out in my own life; When I know I have a busy week ahead of me, for the sake of not feeling overwhelmed, I proactively begin planning out my days more intentionally. I take time to open my planner, plug in all of my scheduled appointments and begin plugging in all of the other chores and tasks that I would like to accomplish that week as well. Resulting in a more thoroughly planned out week. Almost every hour of my day gets accounted for, and I have a “Plan of Attack” mindset.

Now, if I don’t feel as busy, I typically don’t feel the urgency to be as diligent with planning out my days; Therefore, I don’t get as much random (but important) chores/ errands accomplished. Use that surge of stress from feeling overwhelmed to motivate you to be proactive and plan out your week. You will be impressed by how much you get done.

If you would like me to create a tutorial on how to get the most out of your planner or calendar, comment down below!

PS. Happiest of Birthdays to my friends Patty & Susanna! I love you ladies.

Summer Agenda 2015

2015-06-30T22:53:00.003-07:00

The most wonderful time of the year has arrived! I am happy to announce that I no longer need a sweater when Karl and I take Benny out for his evening walks. Below are a few of the things I am looking forward to this Summer.

· Go on our 2^nd Annual Palm Springs Anniversary Trip (We use the Hotel Tonight mobile app for great last minute deals)
· Make a peach pie from scratch
· Hike Cedar Creek Falls to the Devil’s PunchBowl
· Attend Movie Night at The Pearl Hotel
· Sew my own dress (pattern & tutorial here)
· Cultivate the habit of daily meditation (Depak Chopra’s Free Event begins 7.13.15)
· Rent a beach chair and lounge at Hotel Del’s private beach
· Play tennis with Karl

What are some things on your Summer agenda?

Striving

2015-02-19T22:22:00.003-08:00

Image Credit

Let’s talk about striving. You know, that urge, impulse, nagging feeling, intuition, and dream to accomplish more?

Like many of you, I am someone with a perpetual list of to-dos, want-to-dos, and need-to-dos. Certainly, there are things that simply have to get done in order for life to remain calm and chaos-free. Things like: getting headlights repaired, doing taxes, and getting enough rest. But, those things are not my strivings; those things are my do-ings.

Strivings are quite different. Strivings are the MUST do. You know, those things, activities, adventures, goals, moments that you go after because they bring depth and color into your life? Yea, those things.

Think about it this way: The concept of striving can be synonymous with hustling.

The term “hustle” has become so catchy…and for good reason. That drive keeps us on our toes, keeps things vibrant, and keeps us constantly evolving. On occasion, the hustle may intimidate us; Remember, growing pains are painful, but oh-so necessary. It’s in the hustle that we understand who we truly are. This striving informs us of what is important to us. Throughout the day, when you take notice of that “need-to-hustle”, embrace it.

What things have you been striving for lately?

8 Daily Makeup Essentials

2015-01-23T09:36:00.003-08:00

SPF: Kiehl s sun care / Lips: Buxom lip gloss / Brows: Anastasia cosmetic, $30 / Lashes: Maybelline mascara, $6.03 / Conceal: Maybelline concealer, $8.99 / Curl: Bobbi brown cosmetic/ Palette: Lorac / Foundation: Mineral Fusion

Hi Plummies! Above are the 8 makeup items that I use on the daily. Simple, neutral, and very, very quick! I've been using many of these products for several years and continue to love them regardless of experimenting with other brands.

What are your makeup staples?

Have a colorful day! Xo

Cabin Fever

2014-12-30T00:11:00.001-08:00

canvas bag, Pullover sweater, Vero Moda denim jeans, Toast grey socks, Forever 21 vegan shoes, Canvas bag, American Eagle Outfitters fedora hat, Charlotte Russe blue shawl, S'well Teak 25oz Bottle, DIANE VON FURSTENBERG The Woman I Wanted to Be Book, Signed Copy

Belated Merry Christmas to you all! Karl and I just returned from a much needed road trip up North. We spent Christmas eve and day with my family in Santa Barbara County, then spent the weekend in one of my favorite cities...San Francisco <3

Ahhh, the weather was phenomenal! Sunny and without a cloud in the sky, yet chilly and crisp. It was ideal for walking around and exploring the Marina District and Pacific Heights.

We arrived in SF on Friday afternoon just in time for a late lunch. We stumbled into The Butler and the Chef <---A definite must-try! We split a burger and butter lettuce salad. They had a seasonal drink called "The Hog Nog", which was essentially egg nog doctored up, spiked with rum and chilled to perfection.

We spent the later portion of the day walking around the boutiques on Union Street and I happen to find coffee heaven; it's name was Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters. Not only was the small shop adorable, it also offered the experience of sitting at their drip bar. Pretty cool touch for any coffee geek!

With coffee in hand and a water bottle in the other, we made our way to The Lyon Street Steps, or "Lion Steps" as my friend Cathry refers to them. Karl and I made it to the very top just in time to catch the sunset over the city. It was pretty magical.

***You can browse more of my SF galavanting on my instagram (@Sheelo)

Tomorrow we are departing on yet another road trip. We will make our way up to a cabin in Mount Laguna to spend NYE with friends. We will also squeeze in a quick visit to Salvation Mountain. I am sure that there will be plenty of hiking, perhaps mountain biking, picture taking, and s'more making ahead of us.

However you celebrate NYE, make sure you do so with a grateful heart. There is just so much abundance and joy to be noticed in this world. Cheers to another wonderful year had, and many more blessings ahead!

Xo, Sheel

Understanding Your Purpose & Your Friends Better

2014-08-11T20:34:00.000-07:00

A few months back my dear friend Becky and I decided to begin a mini book club...right now the member count is: 2 (her and myself). For our first selection, we opted to read The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. Honestly, the past few weeks have been both emotionally and physically trying, and re-reading this book could not have occurred at a better time. Reading it has given me a sense of peace and a better understanding of God's plan for my life. It has also encouraged me to forgive those in my life that have unintentionally hurt me.

The book has a fabulously simple format; Read a chapter (only about 4 pages in length) each evening and answer the "Question to Consider" at the end of each chapter. The book is meant to be read over a 40 day span (since it is comprised of 40 chapters) with an accountability partner.

Since Becky and I live hundreds of miles apart, we don't have the luxury of meeting up at one another's home to discuss the readings over snacks and tea. Instead, we enjoy our book club virtually! We read a chapter ~~every~~ almost every evening and answer the "Question to Consider" via email. I have to say, this has been a beautiful experience for the both of us. Not only do we get the opportunity to journal our feelings and insights about rather intriguing and personal questions, we get to share our answers with each other. This process has encouraged me to be extremely vulnerable with Becky; In doing so, we are getting to know each other on a deeper and more spiritual level. For that, I am grateful.

I encourage each of you to become more vulnerable with those around you. Developing intimate friendships/ relationships take effort and an element of risk. Afterwards you may find yourself feeling more understood, more supported, and much more connected.

Why not give the virtual book club a try?

High School Advice

2014-06-30T23:36:00.002-07:00

This past weekend I traveled back to my hometown to attend my 10-year high school reunion. It was a blast and such a blessing to see how my classmates grew up and accomplished so much.

While in high school I recall thinking: “By 25 years old, I will have all my s*%$ together!” Meaning: I will own my own home, I will have a flourishing career, I will have a new car, etc., etc. Well, the reality is: I was in graduate school working on my Master’s degree until 26, I still drive the same 2001 Honda Civic that I drove in high school, my husband and I currently rent an apartment together (granted we own a condo for investment purposes), BUT guess what... I wouldn’t have it any other way. Life is funny like that.

In lieu of the reunion, I began thinking of myself back in high school and all the fun I had. As an adult reflecting back, life was definitely a lot less complicated then. Yet, teenagers have a way of making things so dang stressful. Below I have complied a list of advice that I would like to offer my high school self…

Beauty Advice:

-Don’t over-pluck the brows- they will never grow back! And, bold brows are about to make a comeback, just you wait.

-Appreciate your natural waves- ditch the straightening iron and learn to embrace your wavy locks. Voluminous hair is much more appealing on you than pin-straight hair. Plus, straightening your hair takes too much time, and you could never properly get the back of your head anyways.

Academic Advice:

-Use your school planner- Develop a sense of time management now! You will soon realize the importance of this skill in college when you are taking 17 units, going to track practice, working 20 hours at a part-time job, and juggling a social life. Procrastination becomes a traumatic experience during finals week…trust me.

-“Only boring people get bored”- Remember this motto whenever you begin to feel bored in class, or while doing any activity for that matter. Perspective is immensely important. Your mindset can either create an adventure or an ordeal in any given situation. Use that creative mind of yours to find delight in the mundane.

Social Advice:

-Drinking is overrated: It really is. Don’t feel like you are missing out because your mom didn’t allow you to attend all those ragers. Believe me, you will get enough of those experiences in college. Right now it’s more important that you spend quality time developing meaningful relationships with family and friends. It is those relationships that will get you through life’s ups and downs.

-Being uncomfortable is good- You didn’t get the same Spanish class as your friends? You have to give a 10-minute class presentation? You didn’t get the elective that you wanted? Oh well…make the most of it! These uncomfortable moments make you more resilient. Being in a class without your friends allows you the opportunity to make new ones. You will realize that doing things that are uncomfortable will push you to grow and eventually become more confident.

What advice would you give your high school selves?

How was your high school reunion experience?

Xo, Sheel

*Blog post was inspired by Emily at Cupcake & Cashmere.

Valentine's Gift Guide: For the Mrs.

2014-02-03T07:35:00.003-08:00

scented candles/ Victoria s Secret victoria secret lingerie / Victoria s Secret thongs panty / Tory Burch ballet flat / Kate Spade crossbody handbag / Kate Spade stud earrings / Jo Malone body cleanser / Opi nail polish, $19 / OPI nail polish, $19 / Nearly Natural artificial flower / Eclectic by Tom Dixon scented candle, $105 / The Paris Wife

"Let me treasure you…" Sorry, Bruno Mars' Superbowl half time performance is still in my head. I kinda have a thing for him. That smile…

Anyways, Happy Monday! There are only 11 days until Valentine's Day, and I thought I'd create a gift guide filled with romantic picks. Last time I was in San Francisco I stumbled upon a quaint little chocolate shop in the Haze Valley. It happen to be my husband's birthday weekend, so I hand selected a box of their interestingly-rare chocolates. They carry unique flavors such as: jalapeño, pistachio, rose water, and salted caramel. Sooooo good! In my opinion, no guy can go wrong with the good 'ol box of chocolates and long stem rose pair. But, if you want to take it a step further, throw in a little something extra.

Cropped

2014-01-31T07:21:00.002-08:00

You might have noticed that shorter hair has been trending as of late. But hair is not the only thing getting shorter; Tops are too! Crop tops that slightly expose your mid drift seem to be everywhere! It's true, trends always come back to life.

My thoughts: I kinda dig it! There is something so carefree and relaxed about the look. In my opinion, crop tops pair best with pencil skirts, or long flow-y ones. Now, I just gotta be bold enough to put one of these babies on!

It's Been Awhile

2014-01-28T20:57:00.006-08:00

This post comes after many, many months of evolution. My evolution. This past September, I walked down the aisle to greet my fiancé, and walked back down as his wife. It's been the most joyful day of my life, thus far. I never imagined myself this happy, nor could I have ever predicted the soothing sense of security marriage could offer. I love us so much.

After coming back from our honeymoon, I fell back into the grind of things. To be honest, work became work. For a moment, I lost sight of that balance I had always prided myself for incorporating into my life. Frankly, I was pooped! After a couple of months of working my buns off, I realized something…I needed to stop, smell the flowers, and continue to focus on them. My goals were going to be achieved, just not within that moment, and that was okay. Ahhhhh…*sigh of relief*

As of late, I have been carving out more time to do simple stuff. Stuff like: watch the Bachelor (I know, it's horrible, but hey, at least it's not the Kardashians!), delve into new books, not set my alarm on the weekends, listen to Maxwell's greatest hits on YouTube, dedicate time to friends, and walk around unfamiliar areas of San Diego.

Isn't it funny how not really doing anything "huge", can have such a rejuvenating and satisfying impact?

Bridal Shower Attire

2013-08-09T12:33:00.001-07:00

Bridal Shower Attire by sheilaho featuring a nail polish

Vero Moda short dress, $54 / Ted Baker studded high heel shoes / Cole Haan / Forever New chronograph watch, $27 / Forever New flower earrings, $9.06 / Burberry / Rosebud Perfume Co. sugar lip treatment / Essie nail polish, $17

Hello Plummies! Tomorrow is my bridal shower, and I kinda figured I'd give ya a sneak peek at my outfit. Simple, monochromatic, and most importantly: comfy.

The wedding is about a month away and I am surprisingly not feeling stressed (yet). Let's hope this smooth sailing lasts. Alrighty, well, I am off to the Del Mar horse races with my co-workers. What an awesome day at work, huh? I gotta say, my boss is pretty amazing.

Have a blessed weekend, and remember to focus on things that bring you happiness. Xo

Mint Meets Nude

2013-05-27T22:31:00.001-07:00

Evening dress, $30 / Ann Taylor multi colored high heels / Teardrop earrings / Biba real leather belt, $44 / Jo Malone fragrance, $57 / MAC Cosmetics beauty product, $20

I had the pleasure of attending one of the most beautiful weddings this past weekend. We flew all the way to Michigan and celebrated Heather and Tyler's marriage. Heather was a picturesque bride; something you might find on the cover of The Knot, or on the latest Wedding Chicks' post. She was absolutely stunning, as were the details of the day. From the wooden hand-held fans during the ceremony, to the locally-prepared chocolate truffle favors; it was all so beautiful.

As for me, I had fun dressing for the occasion! A few weeks back I snagged a minty F21 dress for nearly nada, and paired it with suede Ann Taylor heels. I wanted something that a) was comfy, and b) helped make my pasty self look somewhat tan. I kinda loved how the combo turned out.

It was great to be around such loving people. I am excited to soon be a part of such a considerate, supportive, motivated, and adventurous bunch.

Cheers to Love, and Cheers to Family!

Chop-chop?

2013-05-13T07:12:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have been seriously contemplating chopping the mane. Honestly, I will probably wait until after the wedding, but right afterwards I wanna liberate myself from my long locks. There is something to be said about the effortless style and convenience that comes with shorter hair, and I want in! I am thinking: shoulder length, and plenty of long layers. If all goes well, I may perhaps ditch the granny bun, and actually style my hair every once in awhile.

Have a fabulous, beginning of the week, Plummies! Xoxo

Wedding Series: Bridal Makeup

2013-05-08T07:23:00.002-07:00

Lancôme highlighter makeup / Bobbi Brown Cosmetics , $44 / Bobbi Brown Cosmetics / Bobbi Brown Cosmetics , $37 / Bare Escentuals lip gloss / Eye makeup, $26

Morning Plummies! The big day is only about 4 months away. Ahhhhh!!! It's crunch time now. In an effort to get organized, I printed blank monthly calendars and posted them up on my office wall. After writing down all the wedding to-dos and important dates on the calendars, I realized that nearly every weekend leading up to September 14th is going to be dedicated to wedding stuff. This week my goal is to print all the invites and rehearsal dinner invites. I have found some beautiful free printables here.

In terms of makeup, I have decided to pull a Kate Middleton, and do it myself (with the help of my lovely friend, Vanessa). I went into Bloomingdales a few weeks ago and purchased a few Bobbi Brown products. Why haven't I used her line in the past!? It's quite effortless-looking! The look I am going for is: rosy pinks and corals, with dramatic lashes, and bold brows. I can't wait for you guys to see!

Office Chic

2013-04-08T21:39:00.000-07:00

Chiasso Associate Office Chair - White / CB2 Tps Mint File Cabinet / Georg Jensen HK clock with alarm, stainless steel, $140 / John Robshaw Gold Thank You Stationery / Lemon Sunshine Yellow and Black Decor You Make Me So Happy Phrase... / Essey - Pen Pen Holder, $19 / Acrylic Stapler | www.russellandhazel.com / Swedish Art Deco Desk or Table Lamp in Polished Brass / Jimmy Choo Rika mirrored-leather coffee cup sleeve / IKEA Flyt

Some days work truly feels like work; And no matter how many pep-talks you give yourself, or how much caffeine you consume, finishing that one task just seems so difficult.

Today was one of those days.

However, I've noticed that since sprucing up my home office, I've actually been more productive. Perhaps its the calming colors, or the physical order of the space that calms me and allows me to stay on task. Who knows! Either way, organized and chic is better than chaotic and bleak! hehe ;)

Have a productive day, Plummies!

On My Radar: Ann Taylor

2013-04-04T10:19:00.001-07:00

Source: anntaylor.com

The other day, I wandered into the mall searching for some new heels. Not just any heels; But some very comfortable, not too tall, easy to walk in, can-go-from-the-office-to-a-cocktail-party kind of heels.

I had always heard (around the blogosphere) that Ann Taylor's "Perfect Pumps" were the way to go, yet I managed to steer clear of them because quite frankly, I had somehow equated the Ann Taylor brand with an "older", more "mature" woman. In my mind, I was "too young to rock the AT".

Ummmmm...I was surprised to find that not only are their clothes ah-dorable, but AT's heels were just what I was looking for. I purchased a pair of their "Perfect Patent Pumps" in black. I can definitely rock them in the office with slacks, as well as with a cute LBD. The kicker, I got them for 30% off because they are currently having a massive sale. Cha-Ching! The Perfect Pumps totally live up to their name.

Take it from a girl who loves heels, but typically only finds them bare-able for the first hour...AT makes me wanna wear heels on a daily basis! (really.)

The Perfect Bag

2013-04-01T16:28:00.001-07:00

The O.M.G. (Overnight & Medium Gym) Bag from Derek Lo on Vimeo.

People! I hate to get all giddy over material possessions, but would you look at this bag! Like, really...it's kind of everything I was hoping for.

My typical work day keeps me out of my house from 8am-8pm. I go from seeing clients at the school in the morning til late afternoon, to seeing clients at my office in the evening, with little to no break in-between. So, carrying around my daily essentials is crucial. I need to have my laptop, tons of healthy snacks, and various office supplies and clinical forms on hand. For awhile, I've been lugging around 2 canvas tote bags (not the most polished-looking by any means). Now, I may only need one sleek little bag!

Cheers to convenience and mobile organization! All you busy, on-the-go ladies know what I mean!

*Also, this could work as a discrete uni-sex diaper bag! (Wow, now I am just getting ahead of myself.)

PS. Happy day of birth to my twin sister and I! Yippy for another year of blessings <3

Home Ingredients

2013-03-29T11:16:00.001-07:00

Jonathan Adler Zig Zag Grey Throw Blanket / Cassidy Tufted White Ottoman / Jonathan Adler letter pillow / Threshold Arc Floor Lamp Silver / Diptyque Figuier (Fig) Candle / Halo Kettle - Dune 1.5 qt / Dachshund Bookends / Crate & Barrel World Map / Jonathan Adler Mr & Mrs Muse Mug, $36 / Console Tables

As many of you know, my fiancé and I recently moved into a new place. Getting our home together has been quite the task for many reasons, a) we are on a limited budget due to the wedding, and b) starting a new job has been taking up the majority of my time and energy. None the less, decorating and organizing has been something I enjoy.

Above is a list of items I would like to incorporate into our humble abode. Most importantly, the lamp and coffee table are on the top of that list. When I was in San Francisco last weekend, my girlfriends and I stumbled into the Johnathan Adler store on Fillmore Street, and I feel in love with his cute little mugs. Wouldn't those be just adorable to give as house warming or bridal shower gifts?!

Ok, I gotta tackle a heap of laundry. Ciao!

Heading To The Springs

2013-03-28T12:01:00.000-07:00

bandeau bikinis/ Zara strappy dress / Dolce & Gabbana bandeau bikini / Zara shoes / ASOS flat sandals / Reiss / Irene Neuwirth diamond earring / OndadeMar , $175 / Ray-Ban logo sunglasses / Lipstick

Happy Thursday afternoon, Plummies! I gotta say, working for a school district sure does have it's perks! I am officially on Spring Break for the next couple of weeks. Yeeeehhhhhaaaaa! I still have clients to see in the evening hours, but hey, I will take any kind of a break I can get.

April is right around the corner, meaning: I get to celebrate another birthday and I get to attend a good friend's bachelorette party in the ever-relaxing Palm Springs! It's been a few years since I've been, so it will be nice to go back and enjoy company of great people.

Above, I put together a little ensemble of things I am planning to shove into my duffle bag. If you have been following Lady In Plum for awhile now, you've probably noticed that a) I am thrifty, and b) I live in comfortable pieces. I love the look above because the dress is not only easy to wear (and very forgiving), but its able to transition from day to evening by simply swapping the accessories.

Are any of you on Spring Break?

Do you guys have any Palm Springs restaurant recommendations?

Adult Overalls

2013-03-26T11:54:00.005-07:00

Source: 1

Source: obaz.com via Astrid on Pinterest

Source: rstyle.me

Source: weworewhat.com

Source: celebinspire.tumblr.com

Source: us.anthropologie.com

Source: cocokelley.com

Source: theyallhateus.com

Source: Uploaded by user via Stylesight

Is it just me, or does the thought of slipping back into overalls just get you giddy with excitement? The idea of wearing them instantly transports me back to lazy summer days a la 5^th grade; wherein I didn’t have an afternoon agenda, and my biggest concerns were: figuring out an appropriate hour to start eating the otter pops in the freezer, and configuring the backyard slip and slide.

Not only does nostalgia make the idea of wearing overalls a good idea, but with all those pockets they are just down right convenient! Sure, you have to watch those straps during bathroom visits, but hey…

Good thing I kept my old ones, and I can’t wait to slip them on this weekend; Perhaps over a bathing suit on my way to the pool, or over a tank top while strolling the local farmer’s market. We shall see.

Would you “overall it” again?

Moving Time

2013-02-18T09:33:00.002-08:00

Source: laughs-love-lifessweet.tumblr.com

Source: Uploaded by user via Rachel o

Morning, Plummies. We are moving into a new place this Friday, so this past weekend was spent going through every cabinet and drawer of our apartment in an effort to either donate, toss, or keep things. We have already made about four trips to our local Goodwill to donate previously loved belongings. Talk about some major Pre-Spring Cleaning!

Our new place will definitely be an upgrade in terms of appliances and amenities, yet it will be about the same square footage will less storage space. So, we need to be very wise about what we truly need to take along with us. I can honestly say that rummaging through and getting rid of things this weekend has been rather liberating!

What things can you do without?

PS. Check out a helpful Move Planner here.

Guess what my brother did yesterday...

2013-02-15T08:26:00.001-08:00

Yuuuuuppppp...My brother got hitched yesterday! Laura is such an amazing person and we could not be happier to welcome her into our family. Their nuptials took place at the Beverly Hills Court House yesterday at 2pm (Yes, Valentines Day!).

It was crazy to not only be a part of their big day, but also witness so many couples filter into one building with jitters, love, and close family and friends by their side. It seemed as though the entire building was buzzing with excitement. If you have ever attended a courthouse wedding, you will know exactly what I mean.

There was a lovely intimacy about not having to worry about the elaborateness and hoop-la of it all. At the end of the day its not about the extravagant venue, fruity cocktails, and unique favors; it's about celebrating love and being surrounded by those who want the best for you.

Favorite moments of the night:

All of us humming the traditional wedding tune as Laura walked down the isle with her dad.
Shurl and I throwing imaginary rice and flower petals at Sean and Laura after they were hitched.
Enjoying dinner together as a large family.

Congrats to my big brother and new sister!

(More pics to come from my dslr camera)

Light & Airy

2013-02-11T13:41:00.000-08:00

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Top of the Monday morning to you! Today I woke up refreshed and ready to roll out my yoga mat for a quick workout. Somewhere in between drinking my latte and making a smoothie, I got distracted. The mat remained in the closet and I spent time sipping my tea while daydreaming of what our new living room will look like.

Our new space will still be relatively cozy, so strategizing how to utilize every inch of precious space is in the forefront of my mind. I plan on using a light and neutral color palette because I want to assure that the space feels open and bright in an effort to maximize sunlight and thus aim for it to feel much larger than it actually is.

A few design details that I would like to include in our living room:

tufted couches and chairs
coffee table ottomans
a pair of chairs instead of a love seat
indoor fig trees
colorful vases
statement lamps/ candeliers

Have a gorgeous beginning of your week, Plummies!