Sparkles & Wine

sunny side up

2016-04-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have never been the type of girl who owns more than one pair of sunglasses at a time. Scratch that. I have never been that girl until recently. Lately it seems that every time I scroll through Instagram or read a blog post, I can't help but notice that I'm the only human being not riding the cool sunglasses train.

I purchased my first "fancy" (read: not cheap AF) sunglasses last summer, and I've been hooked ever since. Recently, I've been getting more and more into the idea of rocking different sunnies with different outfits, and I've found myself scrolling through Pinterest boards full of fun, trendy pieces that I am totally lusting after. To be honest, I'm a little obsessed.

Maybe it's the sunshine and maybe I'm just holding out hope that warmer temperatures are coming back around. I'm not really sure what it is, but whatever it is, I am all about hunting down the perfect Spring sunnies.

Hi, I'm Alli and I'm slowly turning into a sunglasses-a-holic.

one // two (under $30) // three

four (under $15) // five // six

seven (under $50) // eight // nine

Which pair is your favorite? I'd love to see what sunnies you're rockin this spring!

Enjoy the sunshine,

101 in 1001 Update

2016-04-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone! If you've been following along for a little while, you'll remember my 101 in 1001 list that I started last January (literally seems like forever ago). If you're new, I'll catch you up to speed...

I have always been a huge lover of Mackenzie Horan from Design Darling. She has incredible style, she's funny, and she's inspiring (not to mention she runs an e-boutique filled with the cutest desk and bar accessories). my favorite thing to keep up with on Mackenzie's blog is her 101 in 1001 list series. Seriously it's such a cool concept - make a list of 101 things you want to accomplish in 1001 days and go for it!

Mackenzie posted an update to her list this week, and it reminded me that I should definitely revisit mine.

I originally started my list back in January of 2014, and to be quite honest with you, I was a completely different person. Seriously, so much has happened or changed in the 1.5 months since I wrote my first list ... so I might've tweaked a few things here and there. I can definitely cross off a good chunk, but I've still got a ways to go.

start date: January 1, 2014
end date: September 28, 2017

1. go one month without shopping
2. go one month without fast food
3. volunteer for a cause I am passionate about
4. read 5 autobiographies or biographies (memoirs count too) - update: 2/3 Not That Kind of Girl by Lena Dunham, Why Not Me by Mindy Kaling
5. read 5 new classic novels

~~6. read for 30 minutes every night for a week~~
7. get a chemical peel
~~8. start a new blog series~~
9. publish 3 how to posts
~~10. get a promotion~~

11. take my grandpa out to dinner
12. run a race (5k, 10k, half-marathon)
13. take a roadtrip with my girlfriends
~~14. leave a 100% tip for great service~~
15. send snail mail birthday cards to 10 friends

16. attend 5 musicals or plays at local theatres update: 3/5 A Chorus Line in September 2015 at the Covedale Center for the Performing Arts, A Christmas Carol in December 2015 at Playhouse in the Park, Book of Mormon in March 2016 at the Aronoff
~~17. travel somewhere new and exciting~~ ~~update:~~ Vegas, baby!
18. try 10 new cincinnati restaurants
19. go to a yoga class once a week for a month
20. go two months without Starbucks

21. have professional pictures taken
22. host a giveaway on S+W
~~23. send thank you cards once a month~~
24. save $20/month to put towards a Society Social barcart
~~25. pay for a stranger's coffee~~

26. go camping
27. go apple or berry picking
28. play tennis
29. go social media-less for a weekend
30. get my wisdom teeth removed

31. guest blog
32. host a guest blogger
~~33. Join a book club~~
34. send Christmas cards
35. inspire someone else to make a 101 in 1001

36. learn to drive a stick shift
37. buy a headboard
38. buy new luggage
39. run 3x a week for one month
~~40. get a massage~~

41. save $1,000 for a rainy day
42. have a pen pal
~~43. buy a monogram necklace~~
44. hit 500, 1,000, 1,500 followers on Instagram
~~45. host my parents for a dinner party~~

46. have a fully stocked bar - (tequila, ~~vodka~~, rum, ~~gin~~, bourbon, ~~white wine~~, ~~red wine~~) and all of the fixins
47. buy my dream Society Social couch
48. buy my blog domain
~~49. take a trip to a vineyard~~
50. take a bus trip to the Kentucky Derby with all of my best friends -- relive my college days

~~51. donate to my high school alma mater~~
~~52. try a cycling class~~
53. buy a nice camera for my blog
54. create my own logo - or hire someone to create one
~~55. Have my own business cards~~

56. perfect a cocktail recipe and make it my signiture drink
57. play 18 holes of golf
58. meet with other local bloggers for brunch
~~59. consistently~~ ~~update my resume~~
~~60. plan and host a fabulous 25th birthday party~~

61. buy and organize an address book and fill it with the necessary information
62. get up early and go to a coffee shop for work purposes once/week for 1 month
63. cook/bake 10 things from pinterest
64. go to a wine tasting class
65. attend a wine and painting class for a girls night out

~~66. complete a month of the blogilates workout calendar~~
~~67. buy a desk for my apartment~~
~~68. (finally) paint my bedroom furniture~~
69. collect 10 fashion and style related coffee table books update: 2/10 celebrate by Lauren Conrad, Grace and Style by Grace Helbig
70. blog a "10 favorite things to do in Cincinnati" list

71. use my library card 10 times
~~72. make my bed every morning for 1 month~~
73. create a collab series with my bff Elizabeth
74. attend the local farmer's market in my neighborhood at least 5 times each summer
75. buy a new dresser

76. perfect 5 "go to" recipes update: chicken Parmesan
77. introduce myself to my neighbors
78. read the newspaper every day for 1 month
~~79. find doctors that I like and make appointments for the future~~
~~80. go to a Red's game~~

81. watch 15 TED talks
~~82. Monetize my blog~~
~~83. attend a final friday in OTR~~
~~84. subscribe to a monthly box - ipsy, birchbox, naturebox etc..~~ (January 2015 - Birchbox)
85. drink 8 glasses of water every day for 30 days

86. buy cute desk accessories
87. buy new glasses
~~88. host a "stock the bar" party for one of my friends -- new home, engagement, etc party~~
~~89. buy a pair of Hunter rainboots~~
90. go two weeks without dessert or sweets

~~91. keep fresh flowers in the apartment every week for 1 month~~
92. see a movie in Washington Park in the summer
93. go out to sing karaoke with friends
94. take a weekend trip to Chicago
95. take a beach trip

~~96. bring donuts or bagels into work to say thank you~~
97. plan blog posts out for each upcoming month by the 15th of the current month
98. spend a weekend at a bed and breakfast
99. go cabrewing
~~100. make a new spotify playlist each month~~
101. save $5 for every goal accomplished (#84)

Thanks for catching up - I'll check in on my goals again (now that I'm refocused) at the end of each month to let y'all know how I'm doing!

What goals do you guys have on your list? If you have a 101 in 1001 of your own, I'd love to check it out!

Until next time,

tuesday ten

2016-04-12T05:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Tuesday, y'all! I hope your week is off to a great start. It's panning out to be a busy but exciting one over here.

It's been a goal of mine for a while to start a tiny series on my blog, and I thought this week would be the perfect week to do just that! So... Every Tuesday, you can stop by S&W to find a random list of ten things. These ten things could be anything from things I'm loving to little brief life updates and everything in between. I hope you enjoy!

one // baseball season is finally here

THANK GOODNESS baseball season is back! I don't know about you, but to me Opening Day signifies the start of warm weather, acceptable day drinking, hot dogs, and an excuse to partake in the "athleisure" trend. Any excuse to rock my converse while wearing red lipstick is a good excuse. Even though my team isn't supposed to be very good this year, you can still expect to see me in the stands munchin' on some cotton candy and soaking up some sun.

my favorite pieces for game days:

two // book club
I'm officially an adult, friends. That's right, I joined a book club. I had attended women's networking event a few months back with a friend and we left with a plan to start a book club with a brand new group of girl friends. We had our first 'meeting' two weeks ago and I had just the best time. Seriously all you twenty-somethings.... If you're feeling a little bored post grad, start a book club! Set out some cheese, open a few bottles of wine, invite friends (and friends of friends to meet new people), and pick a book - believe me, you will have a great time! Bonus: you'll totally make new friends and who doesn't love new friends?

what we're reading:

three // best way to catch up on the news
If you're anything like me, sleep is precious. (ps if you're a natural early bird, please share your secrets) I have been loving the skimm. It's a quick little daily dose of news delivered right to your email inbox each and every morning. It's great because I feel like I can sleep an extra 15 minutes every morning without missing out on the news. It's a great feeling to be informed, and I highly recommend checking it out.

four // amazing race
Okay, I'm a little embarrassed to admit that I am totally obsessed with the Amazing Race. Sadly, all of my favorite teams have slowly been getting eliminated, but I'm still holding out hope that #TeamTylerandKorey can go all the way. If you've been watching, I'd love to know who your fave team is/was this season! Personally, I loved Erin & Josilyn (probably because of my love of Cheat Day on Clevver TV) and Scott & Blair Fowler the daddy daughter team that had me sobbing during their elimination.

five // Serial
I don't know how I'm just getting around to listening to Serial, but here I am. I binge-watched Making a Murderer in like a week, and I was left just craving more. I googled the case and read a few articles here and there, but I'm just fascinated with these types of things. I was at happy hour with a few girls from book club when the conversation went from Making a Murderer to Serial, a podcast that opens up the facts, opinions, and case in general of Adnan Syed, a man convicted to a life sentence for a crime he may or may not have committed. I am fascinated. (I'm listening to the final update as I type this...but looking ahead there are three updates to look forward to). If you're into this kind of stuff (murder mystery, court cases, unsolved mysteries, etc), I highly recommend checking it out here.

six // tassles & pom pom trend
I am absolutely dying over the tassles and pom pom trend that I'm seeing everywhere! It's so happy and perfect for warm weather and be achy getaways.

A few pieces I'm loving:

seven // Ellie Goulding
The obsession is real and I can't wait to see this lady live in May.

eight // sweet tooth
I am a dessert fiend. I would pass up chips and snack foods 100% of the time for donuts, cake, cookies, or candy. Forreal, it's been out of control lately. My roommate and I have made a couple late night donut runs (#noregrets) and I have constantly been keeping a pint of ice cream stocked in my freezer for those nights I just need a spoonful of something sweet. If anyone has any recipes I need to try for anything sweet, let me know!

nine // new Jacks!
I finally replaced my old Jacks this week and picked up a couple new pairs while I was at it. I think that Jack Rogers are just the quintessential spring and summer sandal. I tend to stick to the platinum color because they match everything, but I have been lusting over pinks and navys and whites lately. I replaced my basic platinum Hampton Javks and then picked up the platinum Georgica sandal and the Lucciaa wedge in white - can't wait to break these babies in!

Jacks I'm loving:

ten // the return of the unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
I know what my Friday night plans are going to consist of - blankets, white wine, snacks, and Netflix! I seriously cannot wait to savor every goofy episode season 2 is promising to deliver. Who else is watching?

Sidenote: did anyone else hear about the Pinot Noir being made by the man who plays Titus?!?! Has anyone tried it? Read about it here!

Have a great week, everyone!

Current Obsession: rocksbox

2016-04-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

OH MY GOODNESS... Have you heard of rocksbox?!? I can't even begin to tell you just how freaking obsessed I am with this monthly box of goodies. Monthly subscription boxes are very in vogue these days and with so many options (I seriously think there's a box for everything) it can be a little intimidating to try one on a whim....which is why I'm here to tell you all about my experience with rocksbox (and there's a little surprise for you)!

The premise of rocksbox is pretty much the same as every other box ... but with a twist !! For $19.99/month you get unlimited premium jewelry rentals delivered right to your door. After becoming a shine insider, you get to fill out a style profile and then add all of the beautiful pieces you love to your #wishlist. Seriously, you get to borrow/try out/wear as much as you want 3 beautiful pieces picked by a stylist from brands like Kendra Scott, Loren Hope, Sophie Harper and more !! I mean, what's not to love?! I have a serious Kendra Scott addiction and rocksbox helps to fuel it in a way that my wallet appreciates and approves of. I love being able to refresh my jewelry wardrobe without having to buy pieces full price or feel guilty for splurging on a piece and then rarely wearing it.

One of the best things about rocksbox is how incredibly easy. When you're ready to get a new box in your mail, all you have to do is put the pieces you don't want to keep back in your rocksbox, reuse the shipping envelope, and stick on the return label that's provided for you. In a little over a week you'll have a brand new box of goodies waiting at your doorstep. Find something you just can't live without? Rocksbox will charge your card on file for any pieces you chose to keep or you can go online and shop from your box...literally the easiest try on/shopping experience ever. Best part? You get a $10 credit each month to put towards a piece or two just for being a shine insider and you get to shop the pieces at a member only discount...which is incredible.

So what did I get in my first box? Well, let me just tell you it was so amazing that I totally had to keep a piece to add to my permanent collection. For my first box, this set was spot on !!. I was so giddy when I opened my box to find these 3 beauties. I had added two of the pieces to my #wishlist and my stylist added the third on to really complete the look.

Pavé half moon studs by Sophie Harper

Shimmer bar ring by Gorjana

...and last but certainly not least,

The Elisa necklace by Kendra Scott (in iridescent druzy)

This necklace is my absolutely favorite piece from the box...so much so that I just had to have it for myself. Best part? It was FREE. How? Well, first I was offered the members only discount which brought the necklace down I price and on top of that I had my shine insider monthly spend to apply. Top that off with referring a few friends to check out rocksbox and then being rewarded for sharing something I love (hello, no-brainer), and you've got yourself a FREE Kendra Scott necklace.

Now here's the best part... YOU get to try rocksbox totally FREE. That's right!! Just for being a Sparkles & Wine reader, you can try rocksbox and try out some pretty incredible jewelry totally and completely free! All you have to do is head over to rocksbox and enter the code allirbff1 at checkout and BOOM a happy mail day will be coming your way !!

If you decide to try rocksbox out, let me know what you get! I'd love to see the pieces you snag!

Special shoutout to my girl, Merisa over at Monogrammed Magnolias for getting me hooked on rocksbox.

Shop this post:

cheers,

A Few Of My Favorite Spring Things

2016-03-28T21:00:00.000-07:00

Spring has always been one of my favorite seasons. I don't know if it's the longer days (now that I'm finally caught up from daylight savings time) and warmer weather, packing up my coats and heavy sweaters and pulling out the bright colors and sandals, or a combination of the two, but I do know that there is something about the change of season from winter to spring that has me downright giddy. I've already gotten a head start on my spring cleaning and I've replaced my riding boots with my Jack Rogers and opted for bright colored bedding accessories to replace the fur throw and pillows.

In honor of the most colorful season (or so it seems after the cold, dark, depressing winter), here are some of my favorite things about Spring!

1. Fresh Flowers

There are few things that I love more in this world than buying myself flowers. It doesn't matter if I'm picking the perfect bouquet from a farmers' market stand or grabbing a few blooms from the grocery store. Sure, flowers die relatively quickly, but it's such a small luxury that makes me feel so happy!! Tulips, peonies, and daisies are my absolute favorites (white, yellow, hot pink, or blush always) and seeing them displayed in a vase on my nightstand or coffee table is an instant mood booster. Treat yourself to fresh flowers every once in awhile and I promise you that you will get so much joy from those blooms!

2. Hunter Rainboots

I think my Hunters just might be my favorite shoes in my closet. I have always been a huge fan of the brand and the chic, classic aesthetic they're associated with, but recently I have just been obsessed. These boots are an investment, but seriously can transform your wardrobe in a major way. I have a red pair in my collection currently but am dreaming of adding a yellow pair for the spring. Yellow wellies, in my opinion, are just the perfect spring shoe. You know what thy say, "April showers bring May flowers" ... If I'm going to be jumping through puddles this spring, I want to look as chic as possible!!

(I haven't been able to get my hands on a yellow pair, but how fun are these hot pink Hunters?!)

3. Picnics in the Park

Late Spring is my favorite time to go on picnics. The weather is usually gorgeous, the sunsets are beautiful, and the flowers are blooming in the parks.... Dreamy. Whether I'm picnicking with a date or a few of my girlfriends, I'm definitely in my happy place. Good food, good company, good wine... What more could a girl ask for?

4. The Return of Lilly Pulitzer to My Closet

One of the most exciting things about Spring is breaking out my Lilly. I love the bold, bright patterns after the dark, dreary winter. I envy the girls who rock Lilly in the winter, but it's just not me. Plus, it makes it that much more exciting when I pull my Lilly from storage.

bonus: the current Resort 365 collection is gorgeous so if you're looking to add some pieces to your collection, you have some incredible options! You can find a few of my favorites below.

5. The Kentucky Derby

Whether you're going to Churchill Downs or a derby party, there is nothing more fun than breaking out your big hats and seersucker and drinking a mint julep (or two!!) I have been absolutely drooling over the vineyard vines Derby collection & man is it selling out quickly. Be sure to snag the tee, hat, or dress you want before it's gone for good! I think I might have to add this adorable mint julep hat to my collection.....perfect to relive the fun of derby day all summer (after hanging up my big sun hat of course.)

6. Going to the Driving Range

There are few things I enjoy more than good company, a bucket of balls, and a bucket of beers on a spring afternoon. The driving range is the perfect place to get out some anger and relieve some stress while being outside with friends. I'm a terrible golfer, but man it's fun.

7. Baseball Season Starts

I might be the least athletic person I know, but take me out to the ball game and I could fool even the wisest man. Opening Day is basically a city-wide holiday where I'm from, which makes it really easy to get into the baseball spirit. Just thinking about it has me craving a hot dog, a cold draft beer, and the sunshine on my shoulders. Plus, I'm a huge fan of the baseball emoji, so that's great, too!

So tell me.... What are your favorite things about Springtime? I'd love to know!!

Cheers

#GirlBoss

2016-03-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

Do you guys remember that Destiny's Child song, "Independent Women" that was featured in the Charlie's Angel movie...or even that movie in general? Three kick ass women fighting crime while 3 (or were there 4 members of Destinys Child at this point?) kick ass women sung the anthem of the modern working woman. Movie magic. Seriously though, that song came out in 1999 and I was just a litte girl listening to the message that it was cool for women to support themselves and treat themselves to fancy things without needing a man's help. I mean, I was definitely too young to appreciate how deep Beyoncé and crew were getting with that song, but I still have rocked out to it in the car. Fast forward 16 years and there is still nothing more inspiring to me than a strong, confident, independent woman. Political views aside, can we just talk about how freaking cool it is that there is a WOMAN who is seriously in the running for president?!?! I mean ... Think about it...100 years ago women didn't even have the right to vote and now, in 2016, there is a woman standing up in front of the entire world in a predominantly male field saying "yo bro.... I can do this!" I can't even handle it. So incredible. Personally, I like to entertain the vision of Susan B. Anthony looking down on all of us and thinking, "I mean... About time, ya fools."

So between Beyoncé, Lucy Liu and HilDog, it's clear that I've been thinking about some seriously empowering humans or better yet, "Girl Bosses". For those of you who may be unfamiliar with the phrase (serious question... Do you live under a rock?), a "girl boss" is basically anyone kicks butt and takes names. The term, #GIRLBOSS, comes from an incredibly inspiring book written by NastyGal founder and CEO, Sophia Amoruso that serves as a platform for inspiring and empowering women to be the boss of their own lives // it's pretty incredible and I highly suggest checking it out here.

Today I thought I'd share 5 of my favorite girl bosses with you. These are women all have very different backgrounds and stories, but have all inspired me in a big, big way. So here we go... Here are a few of my favorite HBIC's:

Audrey Hepburn

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It's no secret that I love and admire Audrey Hepburn. girl could rock a high pony and turtleneck combo like no one's business. One of the most appealing things about Audrey has always been her kind heart and the legacy that she left behind. Yes, the woman had a closet that any girl would die for, but the legacy I'm talking about her isn't how amazing she looked in a LBD, but how she completely immersed herself in the service of others up until the end of her life. Audrey spent much of her later life working with UNICEF in some of the poorest countries in Africa. She even won a Presidential Medal of Freedom for her work right before she passed away. How amazing... to be that successful and that famous and to choose to give up your lifestyle to go be with those who have nothing...a true icon. I also read in a book once that she ate pasta once a day (disclaimer: I'm not entirely sure just how true this is, but I like to imagine it to be a fact.)

Tina Fey & Amy Poehler

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This list would not be complete without this duo. Forget Taylor Swift's girl gang, this is #squadgoals. Not only are these two accomplished actresses and comedians, they are also two of the most influential and intelligent women around. Between Tina writing (and co-starring in) Mean Girls and Amy's #SmartGirls red carpet and social media campaign, these two are changing the way the world views women in comedy, an industry that until recently was predominantly made up of men. If anyone ever tries to tell you women aren't funny, tell them to watch literally anything these two are a part of. A personal favorite of mine is the SNL skit of Tina as Sarah Palin and Amy as Hillary Clinton .... Also good if you need a good ab workout!! (Sidenote: check otheir books here & here for more badass, LOL, girl power goodness.)

Ruth Bader Ginsburg (RBG)

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The OG girl boss. Ruth was once asked when there will be enough women on the Supreme Court, to which she replied: there will be enough women on the Supreme Court when there are 9. Snaps for Ruth, the ultimate badass. I really don't think I need to say anything else.

Grace Helbig

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Grace is a YouTube star, New York Times Best Seller, and all around comedy genius. Seriously... When I grow up I want to be half as funny as Grace. I've been watching her videos for awhile now and whether she's doing a monthly favorites video or waxing her legs on camera for the very first time, you can guarantee that I am laughing hysterically. Grace is changing the comedy game and I highly suggest that you check out her podcast, "Not Too Deep'" in which she interviews other content creators and asks ridiculously funny questions, or her books Grace's Guide: the Art of Pretending to be a Grown-Up & Grace & Style: the Art of Pretending You Have It, two "self-help" books that are very cheeky and very hilarious. Grace doesn't take herself too seriously and her sense of humor is incredibly refreshing. If you're not gonna read her books, at least watch this video in which she talks about the presidential hopefuls' style (or lack there of). V funny.

That's my list, but I'd LOVE to hear some of yours - Leave me a comment telling me who your favorite #girlboss is!!

Cheers,

Allow Me To Reintroduce Myself...

2016-03-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

Holy Cow! Remember me?

It has been far, far, far too long since I've sat down to write. I think it's about time that we resurrect this sweet little abandoned blog ... What do ya say?

Since we've last seen each other, a lot has changed. Life got a little bit crazy there for a second, but I'm back! I figured I'd spend this morning catching you up on some of the changes. So, grab a cup of coffee and catch up with me!

- I got a new job! After a lot of back and forth about making a career jump, I bit the bullet and took a job with a company that I am head over heels obsessed with! I can't imagine working anywhere else.
-I moved! I'm now only a short walk or uber ride away from my favorite spots in the city (the art museum, Bakersfield, and 1215 to name a few)
-I found a new workout routine that I LOVE! (And can't wait to rave about in a later post) Thanks, Allison!
-I turned 25! I'm now officially a quarter of a century old.... Eek! Just kidding.. Aside from my hangovers reminding me that I'm not 22 anymore every time I drink, 25 isn't so scary.
-I stopped going to Starbucks (with the exception of the occasional cup of tea or midday Americano) If you know me, you know this is maaaaajor!
-I dyed my hair for the very first time (well... Sorta... I put some balayage highlights in there cuz why not?)
-I traveled to Vegas for the first time with my best friends and almost married two men named Michael (I think) -- aren't you proud, mom?

And honestly some things are exactly the same...

-Cupcakes and champagne are STILL my love language
- I STILL go through the McDs window for a Coke over ice
- I STILL have a love/hate relationship with The Bachelor
-I STILL monogram everything
-I STILLcannot function before 8am without a cup of coffee
- I STILL love Taylor Swift
-I STILL love mac&cheese
-...and I STILL have a (many) bottle (bottles) of wine on hand for any impromptu emergency or celebration (HEY! Sometimes you need to pop a bottle of bubbly to celebrate on a Tuesday simply because you made it through the day without wanting to punch anyone in the face! - don't lie, we've all been there.)

SO much more has changed since last January, and TBH I feel like a brand new person when I think back to last year...BUT! One thing is for certain, I am so glad to be back here writing and sharing my life with you!

I'll see you all on Thursday with a brand new post!

Cheers!

Current Obsession: Gilmore Girls

2015-01-12T15:00:00.000-08:00

Friends,

I have a major confession to make. I cannot stop watching Gilmore Girls. All day. Everyday.

Everyone and their mother has been blogging about their Gilmore Girls obsession, subsequently fueling mine, but hey... if ya can't beat 'em, join 'em, right? Carly from The College Prepster blogged about finding the ultimate Rory Gilmore reading list on Buzzfeed which includes every book that Rory talks about in the series... that is one loooong (339 books) reading list. Has anyone ever attempted this?

This show is just too good to resist. I mean, the cheeky characters from the quaint and quirky little town of Stars Hollow, the presh mother-daughter relationship between Rory and Lorelai, all of Rory's different boys throughout the seasons, LUKE... Everything about this show is absolute, literal perfection.

I've laughed big, hard, loud belly laughs and I've cried big, ugly, Kim Kardashian tears. This show just gives me all of the feels. I never really watched it when it was on air. I would catch reruns after school on ABC Family every once in a while, but I never watched the series unfold from start to finish.

One thing this show has definitely done for me is magnify my coffee addiction. Every time Lorelai says "coffee coffee coffee" or Luke pours a cup into one of his kitchy mismatched mugs, I run to my Keurig, power that baby on, and pop in one of those cute little pods. It just doesn't feel right to watch the show without a cup of my own.

So, I have a question for you all -- who's your favorite Gilmore Girls character? I'd love to know!! I absolutely love Melissa McCarthy, so Sookie has always been a personal favorite.

p.s. I'm currently on Season 5 and I mean....team Luke forever and ever. I don't know how the series ends, so don't spoil it for me pleeeease.

Weekend Notes

2015-01-11T21:58:00.001-08:00

Hi, friends!!

Wow - Sunday already. I always have a hard time coming to grips with Sunday evenings turning into Monday mornings. The weekends go way too fast!!

I hope you all had a lot of fun this weekend and got into all kinds of crazy shenanigans (or took lots of cat naps...whichever is more your speed).

I have a love/hate relationships with weekends most of the time due to my retail schedule. A weekend completely off is a one-a-month kind of luxury. Most weekends I spend the majority of my time folding clothes and hanging out at the mall...nothing crazy exciting.

Some weekends, like this one, are a complete and total breath of fresh air. I was off Friday and Sunday. A-MAZ-ING.

I spent most of Friday morning cleaning and relaxing. I slept in a little bit, which was phenomenal, and then binge watched Gilmore Girls and cleaning my apartment. Super low key. Super relaxing. After a peaceful day of laying around doing (practically) nothing, I was ready for some fun and some company. I ended up making plans to go out to dinner with two of my dear friends -- the couple who got married on National Wear Your Lilly Day (#NWYLD). I have not seen these two in (what feels like) ages, and it was so lovely to catch up with the two of them. The conversation was wonderful and we talked, laughed, reminisced, and celebrated the fact the Ben, Elizabeth's hubby, got a new job (yay!!) Dinner was yummy (all of the pasta, all of the carbs), and I was so ready to hit the hay when I got home.

Saturday was mainly spent at work and I finally took down my Christmas tree -- hold your judgment, please!!

Today was the cherry on top of a great weekend. I really love having a Sunday off every once in a while. Sundays just might be my favorite day of the week, but this Sunday was super special. My friend Sasha was in town visiting Elizabeth (from Sweet Spaces) and we all made plans to go to brunch and celebrate reuniting with a few mimosas and some delish breakfast food.

Sasha and I were both bridesmaids in Elizabeth's wedding and have been friends ever since. She lives in Virginia, so I never get to see her anymore (boo!!) -- brunch was definitely a fun time! Elizabeth warned me that she was going to be wearing her newest Lilly dress and Sasha is always wearing something adorable, which meant that I couldn't just roll out of bed and go to brunch in my workout gear (aka, my typical brunch attire). It was a great excuse to have to get up and put together a cute outfit. I mean, who doesn't love an excuse to dress up a little bit?!

Isn't Elizabeth's Kate Spade clutch just to die for!?! I have some serious bag envy.

After brunch, we headed out to do some shopping at the Nordstrom Rack, TJ Maxx, and HomeGoods. Sasha found an adorable leather skirt and Elizabeth picked up a pack of makeup removing wipes. I was on the hunt for a Kate Spade mug I had seen the other day, but for some reason (I'm claiming temporary insanity) I passed..... It's pretty much all I've been thinking about ever since... it was $12 and a pretty blue color that read "seize the day" on the inside rim... and it matches my "skirt the rules" mug perfectly.... but I digress. We ended with a quick trip to Starbucks for a latte (and a pastry to satisfy my sweet tooth). It was truly a lovely Sunday afternoon !!

Lipgloss: Smashbox // Shirt: Old Navy // Necklace: J Crew Factory // Skirt: J Crew Factory // Boots: Jessica Simpson // Boot Socks: Target // Nails: OPI Shim Merry Chic // Watch & Bracelet: Kate Spade

After our little afternoon date, I headed home to change (sort of) to head to dinner at my boyfriend's parents' house. His family does a cute little family dinner every Sunday evening -- such a great excuse to slow down, sit down, and talk to each other about all of the fun and new things going on in their lives. I love that his family does this and definitely think that it's time I set aside a time each week to hang out with my parents (mom & dad, since I know you're reading this -- when are we getting together!?!).

Shirt: Old Navy // Vest: Old Navy // Necklace: JCrew Factory // Jeans: Gap // Boots: Jessica Simpson // Watch & Bracelet: Kate Spade

Now I'm winding down, watching more Gilmore Girls (I'm on some seriously emotionally damaging episodes and may or may not have been sobbing while I've been writing this post), and catching up on all of my thank you notes. Today has just been glorious.

Let me know how you all spent your weekend!! I can't wait to hear all the juicy details!!

10 Life Lessons I've Learned From Carrie Bradshaw

2015-01-05T22:33:00.000-08:00

My biggest, wildest dream has always been to be Carrie Bradshaw. Ever since I watched my first episode of Sex & the City, I have idolized Carrie. Her confidence, her apartment, her man, her job, her closet -- I wanted it all! Fast forward about 9 or so years, and not much has changed. Just tonight, while talking to my bff Elizabeth, I casually dropped into the conversation how much blogging makes me feel a teeny tiny bit closer to achieving my dream of morphing into Carrie Bradshaw.

Seriously. That closet.

Thinking about all of this makes me giggle a little bit, but in all honesty, why? Carrie Bradshaw is a fantastic role model. Sure she made a ton of mistakes throughout the series, but ultimately, she was an icon. There's a reason the series is still successful to this day. Carrie is the epitome of "girl power". She had an amazing writing career, incredible friendships, and the strongest sense of self of any fictional character I know.

Today, I'm going to share 10 of the best pieces of advice, or life lessons, that I have learned from Miss Carrie Bradshaw.

disclaimer: If you've never seen Sex & the City 1) um... what? and 2) call me up ASAP - I have the collectors edition and a few bottles of red ... or we can make cosmopolitans (her signature cocktail). Seriously, we'll have ladies night.

10 Life Lessons I've Learned From Carrie Bradshaw

1, It's a totally wonderful thing to be a strong, single woman.

"Being single used to mean that nobody wanted you. Now it means you're pretty, sexy, & you're taking your time deciding how you want your life to be & who you want to spend it with"

What an important lesson to learn in your early twenties. This time last year I was going through a strange phase in my life. All of my best friends were happily coupled off. One was married, one was engaged, and one was in a wonderful relationship with a man who adored her. Then there was me.... alone. I envied my friend's happiness and relationships and hoped that one day I would be as lucky. While it is definitely a great feeling to be in a secure, healthy relationship with a person who thinks you're the sun and the moon, it is equally wonderful to be alone and to be secure with that. Being single and confident in yourself is an amazing feeling. The biggest thing this taught me is that my time is valuable and that I am wonderful. Single and fabulous (exclamation point)!

2. It is 100% okay not to be a perfect, domestic, stepford wife.

"I will never be the woman with the perfect hair who can wear white & not spill on it"

Those friends I referred to above? Yes. Those girls are the definition of domestic goddesses. I, on the other hand, am a mediocre cook (at best), a decent baker, and I do not think of my life 5 years in the future. Don't get me wrong, I think that being a little bit stepford wife-y is fantastic -- I just will never be that girl. For example, I recently decided that I would buy crisp, beautiful, white sheets to match my beautiful white comforter... the actual, literal night that I purchased these sheets, I may or may not have spilled red white all over (spoiler alert: I did). But you know what? I like myself, messes and all.

3. Your true friends will always be there for you, throughout every season of your life.

"They say nothing lasts forever, dreams change, trends come and go, but friendships never go out of style"

I think this one is pretty self-explanatory. Nothing better than true friends who will always love you even if you suck sometimes. (Shout out to Kourtney, Elizabeth, and Elizabeth for being literally the best).

4. Just because people move on and chase their dreams, it doesn't mean that they will no longer be a huge part of your life.

"After all, seasons change, so do cities. People come into your life & people go, but it's comforting to know that the ones you love are always in your heart & if you're very lucky, a plane ride away."

No matter where life takes you, the people who truly matter will always be there for you to celebrate all of the important matters in your life. I am so fortunate to have girlfriends who are so supportive of my decisions and goals and these girls know that I back them 100% no matter what. How lucky am I?

5. It is so important to love yourself before you can expect anyone to love you.

"The most exciting, challenging, & significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself...& if you find someone to love the you you love, well, that's just fabulous"

There is no sense being in a relationship if you feel you have to hide your flaws or insecurities from your significant other. In order to be in a truly rewarding relationship, I think that is is so, so, so important to be totally, completely, comfortable with yourself first.

6. Just because a relationship doesn't last, doesn't mean that your feelings are/were invalid.

"Some love stories aren't epic novels. Some are short stories, but that doesn't make them any less filled with love."

Just because something doesn't last forever, doesn't mean it wasn't an important time in your life. People come into our lives for a reason and sometimes that reason is hard to see in the present moment. Everyone teaches us some sort of lesson. What we take away from each failed relationship is what is truly important and significant; just because it didn't work out in the long run, doesn't mean that the feelings were never there/

7. It is okay to leave some things in the past.

"Maybe the past is like an anchor holding us back. Maybe you have to let go of who you were to become who you will be."

While everything and everyone we meet teaches us a lesson of some sort, some people just aren't meant to stay in our lives forever. It is 100% okay to cut people out of your life if they do not fit into your dreams. If someone isn't willing to support you and your crazy ideas, do you really need to make it a priority to keep them in your life?

8. You are perfect just the way you are. You do not need to conform to any societal norms to make other people happy.

"Maybe some women aren't meant to be tamed. Maybe they just need to run free til they find someone just as wild to run with them."

There is no reason in life to be anything but happy. Do everything you want to do. Do them with the people who want to do these things with you. Don't change who you are or what you want for someone else.

9. Never judge another person's relationship.

"When it comes to relationships, maybe we're all in glass houses & shouldn't throw stones because you can never really know. Some people are settling down, some are settling, and some people refuse to settle for anything less than butterflies."

It is so easy to have an opinion about every aspect of your friends' relationships. It's so easy to look from the outside and judge the decisions people make, but why? Everyone has their own quirks or problems, it's a part of life. As long as our friends are happy, what other business do we have sticking our nose where it doesn't belong? I think the major lesson here is to learn to be supportive. If your friends are happy, that is all that matters.

10. Sometimes you have to make not-so-logical decisions. Sometimes you have to follow your heart.

"Sometimes you gotta quit thinking so much. If it feels right, it probably is. So just go with it."

& as a bonus.... my all-time favorite, justify all of my life decisions, quote.....

"It wasn't logic. It was love"

forever searching for Mr. Big.

I'd love to hear some of your favorite Sex & the City quotes!
Until next time

Cheers,

* all pictures were found in a pinterest search

NYE details

2015-01-03T14:00:00.000-08:00

Well hello there!

I hope that you all had a magnificent time ringing in the new year. New Year's Eve has always been one of my favorite holidays. Maybe it's the promise of a fresh start as we leave our mistakes behind that I look forward to each year or maybe it's the sparkles, sequins, and glitter.... I mean, you be the judge (hint: it's the latter). NYE is such a fun holiday. You get to dress up and take pictures and drink champagne...what could be better?

This NYE, my midnight kiss just so happened to be my glass (juice box?) of wine. As I've previously mentioned, the boyfriend is traveling for work right now -- so unfortunately he spent his NYE in Atlanta. While I definitely missed kissing my handsome guy as the ball dropped and we welcomed in 2015, it allowed me to spend the evening with my best girlfriends, which was definitely a blast.

I started my NYE morning meeting up with my momma for brunch at one of our favorite spots. If any of you live near a Joseph Beth Bookstore that has the Bronte bistro attached, GO! The food is amazing, the ambiance is cozy, and they have an entire cocktail menu where each drink is named after an author or a book.... I totally geek out over it every time. It's just so fun! I indulged in baked brie with a caramel sauce and pears and a mimosa made with grand mariner (yummy!) and my momma chose the quiche du jour which was a veggie lovers quiche with chicken... SO GOOD. Have I mentioned that I adore Bronte bistro?

After brunch, we did a little window shopping, picked out a retirement gift for one of my mom's coworkers, returned some Christmas presents, and then wished one another a very happy new year. I love the relationship I have built with my mom. As I get older, I have realized that the time I get to spend with my mommabear is precious and the memories are priceless. I am one lucky girl to have a friend and mother as wonderful as mine. (Mom, if you're reading this -- love you bigger!)

so delish!!

Cheers to 2015!

sidenote: My wonderful boyfriend treated me to this murfee for Christmas. I am absolutely obsessed with it and have been wearing it every chance I get! It's perfect for the winter months as I can pair it back to grays and navy and wear it with a quilted vest or a dress, but it's going to be just as perfect in the spring and summer! The teals and pinks and greens in this scarf are just gorgeous. Shop the Trunk Show murfee here!

After brunch, I went back to my apartment to get ready for the evenings festivities. Last year, I had purchased a zip-up leather dress for a Sex and the City themed girls' trip (clearly I was the Samantha), and NYE was a great excuse to pull that dress out again. (sidenote: I also wore it to my birthday party...I just love this dress). It's everything a NYE dress should be: sexy, fun, and a little ridiculous. Although I typically opt for head to toe sequins, a little sparkle on my nails (I used Essie's Jiggle Hi, Jiggle Low -- a metallic-y, sparkly silver-y, gold color) and sparkly J. Crew tights were enough for this girl this year.

The prettiest Gin & Tonic there ever was

After getting ready, one of my bffs, Kourtney, came to pick me up to drink wine and touch up hair and makeup. We had wonderful girl talk, listened to Taylor Swift, and reconnected before our dinner reservations. It was lovely. Oh, the wine we were drinking? Pinot Grigio from a juice box.... always classy.

I think we clean up nicely, yes?

We met up with the rest of our friends at Seasons 52 for dinner. If there is a Seasons 52 near you, please do yourself a favor and go! The wine list is extensive and they change their menu up seasonally, depending on the produce that is in season. They also have the most delicious flatbreads as an appetizer option. I had the seasonal Bay Scallops (divine), a bottle of Chardonnay (split with Kourt), a field green salad, brussel sprouts, and finished it off with a s'mores dessert shooter (those cute little ones in the shot glasses). To avoid being publicly picked on by everyone at the table, I didn't take any pictures.... but, trust me when I say it was all beautiful and delicious!

Post dinner, we called an Uber and headed off to our friend's apartment in Mt. Adams where we spent time drinking (more) wine, catching up with old and new friends, and having lots and lots of fun. Our friend Jared has this amazing apartment that overlooks the city -- breathtaking. The perfect location to celebrate a new year!

the view from his balcony - gorgeous

It was definitely a night for the books and I can't wait to see what 2015 has in store for all of us! What were your NYE plans? Quiet night in? Crazy night on the town? Evening spent with friends and family? I'd love to hear all about them!

CHEERS!

101 in 1001 Days

2015-01-01T20:54:00.002-08:00

I will be the first person to admit that I am no good at New Year's Resolutions. I love the idea of a good goal setting session and I love the idea of ending one year making a list of things I hope to improve or do in the upcoming year -- but I am terrible at following through.

This year is going to be different. 2015 is going to be a year of measurable success and change. I'm going into this new year with the support of a fantastic, caring family, the most fabulous group of girlfriends anyone could ever ask for, and a boyfriend whom I just adore. I can't wait to see where this year takes me.

So... to turn these goals into a reality, I was inspired by the one and only Mackenzie Horan to write a list of 101 things I want to do or accomplish in 1001 days. Mackenzie is the mastermind behind the Design Darling blog and boutique -- definitely check her out...she's on her second 101 in 1001. The really cool thing about these 101 in 1001 lists is that there's a set time period and all of the goals are measurable and can be crossed off once completed. It's kind of a cross between new years resolutions, a to do list, and a bucket list.

I am so excited to get started and get things crossed off of this list! If any of you decide to write a 101 in 1001 list, definitely send me a link and let me know -- I would love to read your lists!

Here goes nothing. 1001 days. 2.75 years. cheers as we start this journy together!

start date: January 1, 2014
end date: September 28, 2017

disclaimer: these are in no order currently. I will add my list to a page at top of my blog and you can check on my progress as I go. I'll categorize my goals on the 101 in 1001 page. I will also write an update post at the beginning of each month so I can share some fun stories from this experiment.

1. go one month without shopping
2. go one month without fast food
3. volunteer for a cause I am passionate about
4. read 5 autobiographies or biographies (memoirs count too)
5. read 5 new classic novels

6. read for 30 minutes every night for a week
7. get a chemical peel
8. start a new blog series
9. publish 3 how to posts
10. get a promotion

11. take my grandpa out to dinner
12. run a race (5k, 10k, half-marathon)
13. take a roadtrip with my girlfriends
14. leave a 100% tip for great service
15. send snail mail birthday cards to 10 friends

16. attend 5 musicals or plays at local theatres
17. travel somewhere new and exciting
18. try 10 new cincinnati restaurants
19. go to a yoga class once a week for a month
20. go two months without Starbucks

21. have professional pictures taken
22. host a giveaway on S+W
23. send thank you cards once a month
24. save $20/month to put towards a Society Social barcart
25. pay for a stranger's coffee

26. go camping
27. go apple or berry picking
28. play tennis
29. go social media-less for a weekend
30. get my wisdom teeth removed

31. guest blog
32. host a guest blogger
33. start a new blog series
34. send Christmas cards
35. inspire someone else to make a 101 in 1001

36. learn to drive a stick shift
37. go fishing
38. sing a song with David and record it
39. run 3x a week for one month
40. get a massage

41. save $1,000 for a rainy day
42. have a pen pal
43. go to church at least 1 Sunday each month
44. hit 500, 1,000, 1,500 followers on Instagram
45. host my parents for a dinner party

46. have a fully stocked bar - (tequila, ~~vodka~~, rum, ~~gin~~, bourbon, white wine, ~~red wine~~) and all of the fixins
47. buy my dream Society Social couch
48. buy my blog domain
49. take a trip to a vineyard
50. take a bus trip to the Kentucky Derby with all of my best friends -- relive my college days

51. donate to my high school alma mater
52. try a cycling class
53. buy a nice camera for my blog
54. create my own logo - or hire someone to create one
55. create S+W business cards

56. perfect a cocktail recipe and make it my signiture drink
57. play 18 holes of golf
58. meet with other local bloggers for brunch
59. consistently update my resume
60. plan and host a fabulous 25th birthday party

61. buy and organize an address book and fill it with the necessary information
62. get up early and go to a coffee shop for work purposes once/week for 1 month
63. cook/bake 10 things from pinterest
64. go to a wine tasting class
65. attend a wine and painting class for a girls night out

66. complete a month of the blogilates workout calendar
67. buy a desk for my apartment
68. (finally) paint my bedroom furniture
69. collect 10 fashion and style related coffee table books
70. blog a "10 favorite things to do in Cincinnati" list

71. use my library card 10 times
72. make my bed every morning for 1 month
73. create a collab series with my bff Elizabeth
74. attend the local farmer's market in my neighborhood at least 5 times each summer
75. give something up for Lent and stick with it

76. perfect 5 "go to" recipes
77. introduce myself to my neighbors
78. read the newspaper every day for 1 month
79. find doctors that I like and make appointments for the future
80. go to a Red's game

81. watch 15 TED talks
82. launch an online boutique or etsy shop
83. attend a final friday in OTR & blog about it
~~84. subscribe to a monthly box - ipsy, birchbox, naturebox etc..~~ (January 2015 - Birchbox)
85. drink 8 glasses of water every day for 30 days

86. buy cute desk accessories from Design Darling for #67
87. buy new glasses
88. host a "stock the bar" party for one of my friends -- new home, engagement, etc party
89. buy a pair of Hunter rainboots
90. go two weeks without dessert or sweets

91. keep fresh flowers in the apartment every week for 1 month
92. see a movie in Washington Park in the summer
93. go out to sing karaoke with friends
94. take a weekend trip to Chicago
95. take a beach trip

96. bring donuts or bagels into work to say thank you
97. plan blog posts out for each upcoming month by the 15th of the current month
98. spend a weekend at a bed and breakfast
99. go cabrewing
100. make a new spotify playlist each month
101. save $5 for every goal accomplished (#84)

November Favorites

2014-12-04T00:42:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness! I cannot believe that it is December. Aside from the fact that my apartment has been perfectly decorated for the holidays since mid-November, I simply cannot wrap my head around the fact that we are now in the last month of 2014. Absolutely crazy!

Each month, I anxiously await for my favorite bloggers and YouTubers to post their monthly favorites video, so I decided that I'm going to incorporate these types of posts into my routine. I think it's fun to try new products that people rant and rave about and I mean, it's a great excuse to go shopping (duh).

For my own blogging purposes, I'm going to pick a few different categories and share a favorite or two from each.

Hair Care

Herbal Essences Naked Dry Shampoo

Y'all - I picked this up on a whim and I am hooked. I'm a huge, ginormous, major fan of dry shampoos, and this one is great! I don't have to worry about this product making my hair look gray (brunettes + dry shampoo don't always mix) and it smells aaaaa-mazing. It's super inexpensive, too which is definitely a bonus!

Beauty

Naked 3 Palette

I only added this Instagram picture in to show how long I've had this palette. 50 weeks ago I splurged on this beautiful rose gold-toned collection of eye shadows. Now, I love Urban Decay. I always have.... but I struggled with this palette for so long. I completely used up my favorite color in the palette (dust) and then kind of forgot all about this gem. Well, this month, I've been very into shimmery, bronzey, brown eyes so I pulled this bad boy off of the shelf, and it's really the only shadow I've been gravitating towards lately.

Clothing

Oversized Cozy Sweaters

get it here

Imagine this sweater but in an oatmeal color paired with leggings and boots. This is basically what I have been living in this month. This particular sweater is from Gap and is so perfectly snuggly and cozy. I will wear it with a pair of boxer sleep shorts or modal leggings for lounging or with leggings and boots out in public. I have gotten so many compliments on the sweater as well. If you can get your hands on this beauty, do it! It's the perfect fall/winter sweater.

Accessory

Ohio Necklace (or really any dainty, simple, gold necklace)

This isn't the exact one that I own (I purchsed mine from a darling boutique in Hyde Park Square (leeli + lou), but I think a simple, dainty necklace in any state shape would be adorable! I think they make great gifts, and mine always seems to start a conversation. Definitely glad I picked this piece up, and something I've been really grabbing for this month.

Candle Scent

Hot Apple Toddy

I mean ..... this candle. It smells like a cold night spent inside, snuggling up with a hot mug of apple toddy (or any spiced, hot cocktail), with a blanket and a good Christmas movie. When I say this candle smells amazing, like... there are no words that are descriptive enough to explain how obsessed I am with this candle. Just... go smell it at your closest B&BW. Please?

Book

Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella

Just a fun, light-hearted read. I've read this book at least a dozen times, and I re-read (well, this time listened) to it on my Audible app on my commute to and from work...that is when I didn't have Christmas music playing! If you like chick-lit, Sophie Kinsella is your girl. I've read many titles by her and have devoured and loved each and every one. They're easy, sassy, witty, and just plain fun!

Movie

Love Actually

All I'm going to say is this: if you haven't seen this movie, I know what you're now doing with your weekend. Watch it, drink wine, cry, laugh.... all of the feelings. All of them.

Music

The Penatonix - That's Christmas to Me

Festive, fun, and their voices are like butter. To say I'm obsessed is an understatement.

App

Pinterest

I love scrolling through the app when I wake up in the morning or before bed at night. I've recently been really into pinning gift guide ideas or Christmas decorations and such. Of course, my Pinterest is like 10% weddings (because I'm a girl), 30% things with glitter (see the screen shot from above), 40% cocktails and bar carts, 10% holiday and home decor, and 10% Chuck Bass and Blair Waldorf (or gossip girl quotes). So...if any of that sounds appealing to you, I'd love for you to follow me! (click here!)

Cocktail

Mimosas!

Why, thank you, Blair Waldorf. Don't mind if I do.

I mean..I always love mimosas. There are so many fun things you can do to them -- mix in different flavored juice, use sorbet instead of juice, add a bunch of fresh fruit (and then eat the champange soaked fruit when you're finished!). The possibilities are truly endless! I feel like I've been craving mimosas more this month than in months recently passed. November was a good brunch month because it's been getting chillier and my motivation to do anything super productive on a weekend off has been dwindling...hence, mimosa pitchers! I know this makes me sound #basic as all get out, but ... I don't even care. Pass me another mimosa, please!

Nail Color

All I Want for Christmas is OPI (OPI) & Beyond Cozy (Essie)

as seen here

& here

These two colors are my two current go-tos. They are both so festive and fun. The red is the perfect holiday color and the glitter is just perfect for parties and events. Also, props to all of you girls who are excellent nail-painters and can post these flawless pictures of your fingers on instagram. I look like I'm bleeding every time I paint them red for at least a day until I can get all of the stain off of my cuticles. I'm working on it.

& LASTLY....

Random

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!!!!

So two things. One: why did I just now discover that there is a music video for this song? Did 8 year old me know that this exsisted and I just forgot...or where has this gem been hiding? Two: HAPPY HOLIDAYS, everyone! I am a big fan of celebrating Christmas starting mid-November, but I totally realize that not everyone likes to celebrate Christmas (or their respective holiday) and Thanksgiving in the same month. BUT! Now that it's officially December, the Christmas tree is up and lit, the festive music is playing, and I just want to frolick through the snow with hot chocolate and look at Christmas lights, and cuddle, and sing carols, and eat good food!

Well, that's it for this month. Thank you so much for reading along! Feel free to leave a comment letting me know what some of your favorites were in November -- maybe it'll spark my desire to try some new things!

getting to know you

2014-12-02T22:41:00.003-08:00

Hello there! I'm so glad that you stumbled onto my blog -- I can't wait to start this blogging journey, and I hope that you will connect with me and follow along.

To start things off, I thought I would post a list of 10 little facts all about me. I love reading other people's Q&A blogs or fun facts, and I love watching tag videos on YouTube (and I hope you enjoy this, too!)

1. my name is Alli and I'm a monogram-a-holic.

Reese Witherspoon once said "if it doesn't move, monogram it!" What a wise lady. When I say that I monogram everything, I mean it. Coffee mugs, hair bows, sweatshirts, rain jackets, tote bags, clutches, and even my Christmas stocking. I think that adding a monogram to a gift makes it perfectly personalized, and it can jazz up anything you own.

delightful

2. brunch is everything.

To me, there is nothing better than sleeping in on a Sunday and then mozying to my favorite brunch spot (which just happens to be right across the street from my apartment. so convenient). Mimosas, bloody marys, french toast, hashbrowns.... I mean, everything. Brunch is my favorite meal of the week and it is the perfect time to gossip with girlfriends about the scandalous (or boring) details of your weekend or to catch up with a good friend over breakfast friendly cocktails and delicious food. Whether you're in the mood for sweet or savory, brunch has got your back. The amount of brunch pictures on my Instagram feed are mildly embarrassing, but who could resist a meal in which cocktails are encouraged before 4pm?

found on pinterst - hey now hey now, this is what dreams are made of

3. Carrie Bradshaw is my spirit animal
Something else that goes hand in hand with a girls' brunch is discussing which Sex and the City character you are. As silly as this sounds, it has definitely been the topic of many of my Sunday brunch excursions. "Oh my gosh you were totally slutty this weekend! You're suuuuch a Samantha!" (I'm cracking up as I type this,,, I know this is ridiculous). For years I would tell everything that I was definitely a Charlotte York, I was on the hunt for domestic bliss. Here I am now, 24 with no ring on my finger (trust me when I say I am not complaining) realizing I've always been much more of a Carrie than a Charlotte. With an ever-growing closet, a love of cosmopolitans, and the eternal search for love and the perfect pair of shoes (hello, lover!), I am Carrie Bradshaw.... now where is my Mr. Big?

truer words have never been spoken

4. I have a very serious nail polish obsession
...and no intentions of ever stopping. My windowsill is lined with all of my Essie polishes, lined up in color order. 6 more and the entire length of my window will be covered (small victories). My bedside tables are stocked with OPI nail polishes or other brands (a few Nars or Sephora by OPI nail polishes). There's a polish for every occasion, but lately, I've been very into vampy Christmas reds or dark greens.

current favorite All I Want for Christmas is OPI

5. if I'm ever having a bad day, a cupcake is the cure

There is a bakery in Cincinnati called the BonBonerie and... oh my god..... amazing. Every one of their treats is divine. I can never stop in for just one thing. If I make a trip to the bakery, I will come home with $30 worth of sweets. French macarons, pastries, cookies, cupcakes, I can't even, The salted caramel cupcake is the one cure for anything: bad day at work, broken heart, post hangover,

in all of its glory

6. a trip to target is like a religious experience
In all seriousness, I love Target. I will make several trips to Target throughout the week.... just because. I love to peruse the dollar section (you can find some serious gems), and then make my way through the clothes, the shoes, the electronics, the bath and bedding section, home decor, the HOLIDAY SHOP (aka heaven), the wine aisle (because constantly having a bottle of red and white is a must for every 20 something), and then I end with the office supply aisle and the NAIL POLISH. I have only left target a handful of times without impulse buying a new Essie. It's a problem and a solution all at the same time.

#AlexFromTarget ... but really, who is this kid?

7. I want to be Colleen Ballinger (Miranda Sings) when I grow up.
If you haven't watched any Miranda videos or any of Colleen's personal videos on YouTube, you're definitely missing out. She is hilarious and her videos never fail to cheer me up or put a smile on my face. Seriously. Go check out her YouTube channel (Colleen's Channel & Miranda Sings)

8. Taylor Swift's 1989 is the current soundtrack of my life
Like any other 20 year old girl, I am obsessed with Taylor Swift's new CD. Every song is perfect. I love the songs I hate (wrap your head around that one). I'm constantly playing the music from the minute I wake up until I go to sleep. It's just..... perfect. Taylor Swift just gets it. disclaimer: I have terrible taste in music. I will be the first person to admit this. but this cd is great.

9. I love Lilly Pulitzer
Maybe it's the colors. Maybe it's the patterns. Maybe it's the carefree, fun lifestyle the brand embodies. I don't know what it is, but I am hooked. I'm not as into Lilly in the fall and winter, but I still love to display my Lilly shorts and dresses in my closet all year long. The colors and patterns are just too pretty to not want to look at every morning! I think Lilly is my favorite thing about the spring and summer (is this a little sad? maybe. do I care? no). One of my best girlfriends got married this summer and had a lilly-inspired wedding that was a-dor-a-ble...so of course the bachelorette party was Lilly themed. Complete with fun cocktails, tons of lilly patterns, and lilly gifts! oh! I almost forgot to mention that her wedding was on National Wear Your Lilly Day. Obviously, I had to dress in theme...

the boyfriend and me decked out in Lilly (print: I Herd You) on NWYLD

10. I am SO excited to start this blogging journey and to learn more about each and every one of YOU!
So leave me a comment with a fun fact about you! I can't wait to connect and share our experiences.

Thank you so much for stopping by!