Style Within Reach

NEW SITE!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 13 May 2015 14:04:00 +0000

Please visit the new Style Within Reach and update your bookmarks by clicking here!

Spring Favorites From J.Crew

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 19 Mar 2015 15:43:00 +0000

I can't believe Spring begins tomorrow! What I really can't believe is that we have snow in our forecast!! So I'll just be dreaming of the day I can wear these perfect Spring looks from J.Crew. Too pretty not to share! I've been slow with posting the past few weeks because I've been working on a little Spring makeover for Style Within Reach with Krista Jones and can't wait to reveal a refreshed site next week!! Have a great weekend!

Maternity Basics For Spring

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 15:02:00 +0000

Motherhood Maternity Chambray Tunic (similar) // Indigo Blue White Jeans via Motherhood Maternity //J. Crew flats + tote (both 25% off with code SALELOVE) // Candy Shop Vintage Charleston Rice Beads Necklace

Today I'm excited to kick off a series where I'll be sharing the few maternity basics I'll be mixing and matching all spring and into summer too. I had the pleasure of shooting with Lucy Cuneo when I was down in Charleston last week who is the sweetest girl, not to mention incredibly talented and successful wedding photographer!

I refuse to stock up on too many maternity items since I won't be wearing them that long and I've had fun mixing and matching and making the most of my smaller wardrobe! I love the combination of white denim and chambray -- but this top is also so comfy with leggings. These colorful flats from J.Crew are the perfect way to add a little bit of color and fun to this look and go with all my other closet staples too.

Images by Lucy Cuneo

DIY All Natural Lavender Body Wash

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 14:24:00 +0000

I'm back from a wonderful week in Charleston at the Bliss & Bespoke Retreat and can't wait to share more about it soon! In the meantime I'm dishing on this easy DIY for an all natural body wash. Over the last year I've been slowly trying to incorporate more natural products into my routine (makeup & shampoo have been the hardest) and I thought I'd take a stab at making my own. This "recipe" couldn't be easier and I'm satisfied with both the lather and scent!

Images by Krista A. Jones

This body wash is a combination of equal parts liquid castile soap (I used Dr. Bronner's soap which I've used in the past and felt it dried out my skin) and coconut cream or milk. I based my body wash from this recipe on Hello Natural but made a few tweaks. You can get creative with scents -- I love to use lavender bath products since I take my showers at night.

Natural Lavender Body Wash

Dr. Bronner's Lavender Castile Soap (feel free to swap with another scent)

Coconut Milk or Coconut Cream (full fat)

Essential Lavender oil

1. If you're using coconut cream instead of milk like I did whisk the coconut cream with a little bit of water until it has the consistency of milk.

2. Mix equal parts castile soap and coconut milk along with a few drops of essential oil into a soap dispenser. Shake before using as separation will occur.

Spring Garden Party Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 10 Mar 2015 13:00:00 +0000

A few weeks ago a bridal show room designed by my wedding planning company, Kruse & Vieira Events was published on 100 Layer Cake and I though it would be fun to share a few images. The inspiration was a Spring garden theme and these beautiful images by Krista A. Jones seriously have me wishing for spring weather! You can check out the full feature here! I'll be down in Charleston the next few days attending the Bliss & Bespoke Retreat and will be posting when I return next week!

Photography: Krisa A. Jones // Planning & Design: Kruse & Vieira Events // Florals: My Flower Box Events // Calligraphy: Poppy & Scooter // Rentals: Select Event Group & La Tavola Linens.

How To Beat Dry Skin

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Mar 2015 15:03:00 +0000

Between the harsh cold weather we've had the past several months and my pregnancy my skin has been more dry than ever. I've tried so many different lotions, face creams and balms and have finally come up with a routine that's helped my skin. One of the product's I've been using is Vaseline's New Intensive Care Healing Serum, which claims to reverse dry skin damage and heal dry skin by 10x over time -- and I can attest the claims are true! Read on for more about this healing serum and my tips for preventing dry skin.

Images by Krista A. Jones

1. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and use a humidifier in your bedroom at night while you sleep -- this will seriously make a huge difference! I've been trying to get between 8-10 cups of water a day, having a big water bottle helps.

2. Shower properly. Make sure your shower isn't too hot - as nice as it may feel on a freezing day it will work against you in keeping skin supple and hydrated. While you're in the shower it's also good to exfoliate a few times a week to slug off dry, dead skin cells and leave a good foundation for applying moisturizer.

3. Moisturize, moisturize moisturize. Find a moisturizer that works for you. Vaseline's Intensive Care Healing Serum has been working wonders on my skin and can be applied to your entire body. Because it has micro droplets of Vaseline Jelly that seal in moisture, I use it while my skin is still damp after getting out of the shower at night and then again in the morning. The formula is surprisingly light for a serum and doesn't leave your skin sticky or greasy and it comes in 3 different formulas: Advanced Relief (my favorite), Radiance Restore & Deep Repair and is available for only $7.99 at drug and grocery stores!

Vaseline sponsored this blog post. The opinions and text are all mine.

Spring Maternity Picks From Shopbop's 25% Off Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 14:29:00 +0000

In my short time being pregnant I've learned that it's worth it to splurge on a few maternity pieces, the quality and fit just doesn't compare to the less expensive options I've tried. I don't foresee too many splurges in my near future but for upcoming events I have my eyes on these Spring pieces that are all 25% off right now during Shopbop's BIG EVENT sale! Just use the code BIGEVENT15 at check out!

I'm Hiring An Intern!!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 03 Mar 2015 14:14:00 +0000

I'm so excited to begin my search for a Spring/Summer intern! A lot of people ask me how I juggle my full-time job at Glitter Guide, Kruse & Vieira Events and having a personal blog. The answer is, not very well. I've realized with my upcoming site redesign and maternity leave in the near future I really need an extra set of hands to help manage Style Within Reach. So - I'm looking for an organized, creative, hard working intern who understands and appreciates my style and design aesthetic. Read on for the details and how to apply!

Image by Krista A. Jones

Style Within Reach Spring & Summer Internship

The Details:

This internship is available for school credit and a monthly stipend is offered. If you're looking to learn the ins and outs of the blogging industry, how to run a blog, create content and help with administrative tasks this internship is for you!
This internship is remote, meaning you can live anywhere but a preference will be given for applicants located near Annapolis, MD.
I'm looking for someone that is extremely organized and helpful with follow up, creating new organizational systems, uses Google Drive regularly and can help maintain our Editorial Calendar with ease.
A big part of this role is help with social media so the ideal candidate will be active & familiar with Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and the blogging community. Knowledge of SEO, Hoot Suite, Wordpress a plus and graphic design skills are a big plus!
I'm looking for someone who is a design enthusiast, reads blogs and magazines frequently, has their eye on the 'next big thing', is up to date on current trends in fashion and design and is passionate about them!
Writing and blogging experience is preferred.
This internship requires a commitment of 5 hours per week.

How To Apply:

Email your resume and cover letter to SWRintern@gmail.com along with links to your social media accounts and blog if you have one. Please also include 3 reasons why you'd like to be my intern!

Classic Italian Biscotti & Coffee

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 02 Mar 2015 20:12:00 +0000

I love all things Italian - the food, culture, language, the people. I spent time in Italy during college and was so excited to return with Austin for our honeymoon. I'm hoping one day my sister and I can go there together and visit the area our family is from in Southern Italy (quite near the Amalfi Coast!). So it's no surprise I enjoy a good cup of Italian coffee. I was recently introduced to Lavazza Coffee, and seeing as it's the #1 coffee brand in Italy I'm shocked I'd never tried it until now. Lavazza is expanding their reach and products available in the USA and I'm excited to be partnering with them this year. I have to say I've been enjoy my one cup of regular coffee a week and was totally content with my Trader Joe's beans until I switched it up last week with a cup of Lavazza. This smooth and strong blend was just what I needed after a week of moving.

Images by Krista A. Jones

What better to enjoy with a cup of Italian coffee than a classic biscotti cookie? These were so easy to make, I had the urge to test a new recipe out at 7am and by 9 was relaxing with my coffee and cookie as I dove into work for the week.

These crunchy, almond filled cookies are best when dunked into your coffee (or tea, or hot chocolate!). I've been nibbling on one every morning before breakfast and may have to whip up another batch when these are gone. I read this article on NPR about biscotti and found it so interesting. I used the classic almond recipe at the bottom but omitted the orange. I'm still getting used to our new oven - so my biscotti turned out pretty crisp. I left them in the oven with the door open for just 5-10 minutes, so watch them carefully and try one first before you put them back in!

This post is brought to you in partnership with Lavazza Coffee. Thank you for supporting the brands that keep this blog running!

Tips For Sleeping During Pregnancy

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 26 Feb 2015 13:14:00 +0000

During my first trimester I had no problem sleeping at all. I was tired from morning until night so I'd get into bed around 8pm and wake up at 6am well rested, sleeping soundly the whole night. Everything changed right as I approached my 2nd trimester. I still had no problem falling asleep but I never felt like I was getting a solid sleep, tossing and turning throughout the night - and that's pretty much still the case. I've been determined to try and remedy this problem as best I can and have been trying whatever I can to ensure a solid night's sleep. Here are a few things helping me:

Image by Krista A. Jones

1. Use a body pillow. I have the Bump Nest and I started using it before I even had a bump and it seriously changed my sleep. I've been so worried about sleeping on my side and this kind of forces you to so it puts my mind at rest. It supports your back and you can put it between your legs while resting on your side. It's a game changer and I recommend getting one as soon as you find out you're pregnant. There are also several options on Amazon (here and here), I like the Bump Nest because it has washable covers in pretty patterns.

2. Sleep in comfy PJs. I did a total revamp of my PJ drawer and filled it with only my softest, most breathable and loose nightgowns. I haven't wanted to wear anything around my waist or on my legs since I've been pregnant. I love these affordable Hanes nightshirts (they are big but will shrink up a little) and any soft knit from Gilligan & O'Malley at Target (I have 2 of this nightshirt and my eye on this tank version for spring/summer).

3. Read & relax before bed. I've loved getting back into this habit - I try to get in bed at least 30 minutes before I'd like to fall asleep and ready my latest parenting/baby book (currently reading Bringing Up Bebé). Even though Austin stays up a lot later than I do he's been getting to bed at the same time which is nice and we've been playing music for our girl! She seems to like it and I always feel movement when we turn the music on. We just got these Belly Buds and I can't wait to try them out. This Washington Post article about babies remembering the songs they hear in the womb after birth is really interesting!

4. Cut down on fluids in the evening. This has been hard since I guzzle water but I've been trying to make a conscious effort limit my fluid intake at least an hour before bedtime to limit the amount of times I have to get up to use the bathroom in the night. I love having chamomile tea before bed (ideally in bed) but I had to start having it much earlier because I was getting up even an hour after I fell asleep.

5. Warm shower or bath. I've always been a morning shower person - it helps me feel ready for the day but now I'm strictly on night showers. I used to look forward to a glass of wine at the end of a long day but now I long for my hot shower. I use Trader Joe's Lavender Salt Scrub just about every other day and like to pamper myself with different body oils and butters and really get relaxed before slipping on my PJs. I also can't wait to utilize the tub in our new house with weekly baths.

Winter Citrus Party Punch

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 24 Feb 2015 17:23:00 +0000

Today I'm sharing an easy and refreshing citrus punch recipe that's perfect for winter entertaining over on Glitter Guide! You can check it out here. PS - how amazing is this Goodwill punchbowl score? I'm dying to throw a house warming party just so I can use it!

Images by Krista A. Jones

10 Moving Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 14:07:00 +0000

Image by Krista A. Jones

We moved this weekend! I'm so glad the hard part is over -- but now our house is a total wreck and the real fun begins. Thankfully Austin's parents came to town to help us and we honestly couldn't have made this move (with me being pregnant) without them. My family was also here to help and we had so much fun moving in the snow (ha!). We are so grateful for both of our families! I've moved quite a bit in the last 10 years - from my two apartments in NYC, to my stay in Charleston, back up to a historic apartment in Annapolis, then to our most recent house. Over time I've become quite experienced in moving yourself (and I swear this is the last time) and thought I'd share a few helpful tips today.

1. Accept and enlist help. This is always hard for me because I hate soliciting help especially if it involves hauling boxes and heavy lifting -- but the truth is people are always willing and eager to help out when they can. And remember, your friends could always use a helping hand when it's their time to move too. Instead of just having everyone come to your house at the same time ask friends to come for 2 hour shifts.

2. Have snacks & waters on hand. Plan ahead and have plenty of snacks, water bottles and gatorade on hand for your helpers. Pre-order lunch and have it delivered and be sure to have paper towels, paper plates and cups available.

3. Take breaks. It's important to sit down, if only for 5 minutes to rest. Be sure everyone helping also takes a breather every hour.

4. Label your boxes. Use bright tape and markers to clearly label each box with the area of the house you want it moved to, i.e. UPSTAIRS, BASEMENT, LIVING ROOM etc. Color coding is also helpful. Then, detail what's exactly in the box, it will make unpacking so much easier.

5. Pack a moving bag. Fill it with essentials you need to get through the day so you aren't digging through boxes: cleaning supplies, chargers, Advil, bandaids. It's also helpful to pack an overnight bag with your toiletries and a change of clothes.

6. Load your moving truck strategically. Put the items you'll need first in last.

7. Use sweaters & scarves for breakables. Save on bubble wrap and use sweaters, teeshirts and even scarves to wrap your dishes, breakables and picture frames.

8. Utilize your car. I pack all of my frames, artwork, lamps and TV in my car along with any other items I'm worried about breaking. It eases my mind to know they are safe!

9. Get in your new house early. If possible negotiate the start of your lease so you can get in at least a day early to do a pre-clean. Do a quick clean in all your bathrooms, open windows to air out the place, line the kitchen shelves with liner so you are ready to unload on moving day.

10. Change your address early. It always seems to take way longer than planned for your mail to start arriving at your new house so change it early. Aside from changing your address with the USPS and MVA, leave a note in your mailbox for your mail carrier letting them know about your move, the change date and new address. It's also helpful to leave a note for the new tenants at your old house with your contact information so you can pick up any mail or packages that may arrive after your move.

Pink Champagne Celebration Cake

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 19 Feb 2015 19:46:00 +0000

My sister makes the most delicious champagne cake for special occasions - I think it started on my 30th birthday and I try to come up with an excuse for her to bake this fluffy and indulgent treat any chance I can get. You can really taste the champagne flavor in both the cake (which is so fluffy and moist) and frosting and it's even more fun to add a bit of pink food coloring! I made a mini naked cake recently for a friend's birthday and love how cute it was. I used the original recipe and a 6" cake pan - it yielded enough batter for (4) 6" cakes, so I had one leftover after making the 3 tier cake shown above.

Pink Champagne Celebration Cake
from Booze Cakes

Ingredients
Cake:
3 cups all-purpose flour
3 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
6 egg whites
2 cups pink Champagne

Frosting:1 cup unsalted butter
8 cups powdered sugar
2 tbs. pink Champagne
1/4 cup whole milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Red or pink food coloring

Directions
To make the cake:
Preheat oven to 350 Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or use 3 6-inch cake rounds. In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside. In a mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar 5 minutes, or until light and fluffy. Beat in egg whites one at a time, stopping a few times to scrape down the bowl. Add in the vanilla. In three alternating additions, mix in flour mixture and Champagne, beginning and ending with the flour. Pour batter into pans and bake 35 minutes, or until a toothpick when inserted in the center comes out clean. (Check at 25 mins for smaller cake pans)

To make the frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat butter 1 minute. Gradually add the powdered sugar, Champagne, milk, vanilla, and food coloring (if desired) and beat until smooth and spreadable

Assemble:
For the naked cake apply a very thick layer of frosting between each layer, otherwise your frosting will flatten and it's not near as pretty! I used classic sprinkles on the top for a festive birthday look but the possibilities are clearly endless!

10 Neutral Target Finds For The Home

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 14:45:00 +0000

The moment we found out we were moving (in 3 days!!) I immediately wanted to start shopping instead of packing. I've managed to resist any major purchases until we get settled in our new space but since our house is double the size we'll be needing quite a few pieces of furniture. Our first priority is the nursery - and I'm really excited with how my design ideas are finally coming along! Target never fails with affordable decor updates - for a few hundred dollars you can give your home a major update. Here are 10 pieces on my list right now!

Secret Gem For Affordable Clothes

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 18 Feb 2015 14:23:00 +0000

I couldn't resist sharing these dreamy Spring images that landed in my inbox this week from Modern Citizen - they really have me eager for warmer weather and the price points are just right. If you haven't checked out the brand I highly suggest it for on-trend pieces that look way more expensive than the are!

My Favorite Motherhood Websites

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 16 Feb 2015 14:38:00 +0000

Image of my friend & boss, Taylor Sterling featured on Glitter Guide by Em The Gem

Seeing as I spend most of my days on the internet for work, it was the first place I turned after I found out I was pregnant. I was eager to read articles by other women that gave me some direction -- what books should I read? What pre-natals should I take? What belly butter works? What are the cool, hip baby stores to shop at? I've also been long obsessed with birth stories and hearing about how women get through the first few months of being a new mom. I felt lost. I only knew of a few websites and I've spent the past 20 weeks searching the web for quality sites that leave me feeling inspired and educated. I ask mom friends any chance I get and am constantly on the hunt for new books and blogs and Instagram accounts to follow. Today I'm sharing my favorites so far, and I'd love to hear if there are any others you think I should check out! PS- I can't believe I'm already half way through my pregnancy!!

Mother Mag: Mother Mag was co-founded by a former Refinery29 editor, Katie Hintz-Zambrano and definitely has a hip factor. I love the mix of interviews, shopping, style and educational posts. I find this site especially useful for discovering brands.

The Glow: This was one of the few sites I'd read before I became pregnant. You can't not get lost in the beautiful (literally glowing) photographs and interviews. I got the coffee table book for Christmas and read a few interviews before bed each night.

Cricket's Circle Blog: To put it simply Cricket's Circle is a modern take on a baby registry - I like the concept but I'm not sure it's exactly right for me but I do love their blog. I really enjoy reading the 'Short Answers' series and the 'On The Radar' posts.

Rommy And The Bunnies: This site was started by Julia Restoin Roitfeld - who is the epitome of French girl cool- her mom was the editor of French Vogue for years and she's a fashionista in her own right. Its a fun mix of style, beauty and motherhood.

A Cup Of Jo's Motherhood Section: I read many of these posts before I was expecting and have found them especially helpful now.

The Best Red Drugstore Lipsticks

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 12 Feb 2015 13:41:00 +0000

We are working on a big round up of red lipsticks for Glitter Guide and yesterday afternoon I spent some time going through my giant box of shades finding my personal favorites. Of course most of them were drugstore finds so I thought I'd share those today - just in time for Valentine's Day!

Revlon Super Lustrous Shine 'Rich Girl Red': This is my favorite for my skin tone, it has a hint of coral but it's not overbearing or too bright and I don't feel crazy wearing it during the day.

Revlon Super Lustrous Creme 'Fire & Ice': I used to wear this frequently - it's very similar to 'Rich Girl Red' but slightly brighter and bolder - perfect for a night out.

L'Oreal Colour Riche 'True Red': I picked this up a few years ago when I was looking for a classic red, it has purple undertones and looks very dramatic with my coloring but it's great for the fall and winter.

Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter in 'Candy Apple': This light balm adds a punch of color to your lips and is ideal for an on-the-go shade to throw in your purse.

Baby Blue Bucket Bag

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 11 Feb 2015 18:20:00 +0000

Zara jeans, J.Crew sweater, gifted Fossil 'Vickery Drawstring Satchel' , J.Crew Factory heels (similar), BaubleBar earrings, Julie Vos ring.

Pastels are typically reserved for the Spring months but last year I began an obsession with baby blue in the winter (with my favorite blue coat) and wore it right on through the warmer months (seen here). So it was no surprise I gravitated to the pretty pastel blue color in this Fossil Vickery bag - I've been on the hunt for a structured bucket bag for a while and this one really fit the bill. It's roomy and you can sling it over your shoulder while you're on the go but it's big enough to fit a notebook for a work meeting.

Images by Krista A. Jones

DIY Relaxing Lavender Bath Salts

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 09 Feb 2015 13:33:00 +0000

Aside from rose, lavender is my favorite scent. We recently made little eucalyptus bath salts as favors for a Kruse & Vieira Events function and I decided to whip up a batch of lavender salts to give as Valentine's Day gifts, hostess treats and just have on hand. They couldn't be easier and you can get creative with the different scents!

Images by Krista A. Jones

DIY Lavender Bath Salts

Supplies:

2 parts Epsom salts

2 parts kosher salt

1 part baking soda

Essential lavender oil

Culinary grade lavender buds

Small jars (I used these)

Bowl

Whisk

Directions:

Combine salts and baking soda in bowl and whisk together. Add several drops of lavender oil ( a little goes a long way) and a handful of lavender buds. Stir together and spoon into little glass jars.

Christian Siriano's New Collection For Payless

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 20:54:00 +0000

CHRISTIAN SIRIANO for Payless shoes // Zara jeans // J.Crew blazer & bag // Julie Vos ring // Old Navy scarf // Forever21 tee

I've always had a soft spot for CHRISTIAN SIRIANO -- he's from Maryland and his home town is just a few miles from mine. I also love his style, a little edgy but not too crazy for my everyday life. I've been collecting his shoes since he first began collaborating with Payless years ago and was excited about the opportunity to share it with you today! I have a pair of shoes similar to the ones I'm wearing here in tan that I wore day in and day out last spring and summer and I love the cutouts on these. The stacked heel makes these sandals comfortable enough for a long day on your feet at the office or for a night out!

Images by Krista A. Jones

I've been so impressed with the quality of Christian Siriano's shoes for the price -- mine have lasted years.

Check out the whole line of shoes from Christian Siriano at Payless here:

FACEBOOK | TWITTER | PINTEREST | YOUTUBE | WEB

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Payless ShoeSource. The opinions and text are all mine.

Nursery Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Feb 2015 20:44:00 +0000

Image via Charleston Magazine

Next week we are finding out the gender of our baby and I can hardly wait - I swear I'd be going crazy if I weren't leaving for a trip to visit my girls in NYC tomorrow! I've been dreaming up nursery ideas even before I was pregnant and I can't wait to bring everything to life! We also just found out we are moving into a new (bigger, better) place in a few weeks so I finally know what my nursery room will look like. Regardless of the gender I'm gravitating towards a neutral, cozy space with pops of color here and there. And considering Sharon Montrose's animal prints are in just about every one of these images I think I'll have to incorporate one into our baby's space!

Image via Lauren Conrad

Image via My Scandinavian Home

Image via Stokke

Image via Amber Interiors

Dressing For "The In Between Stage"

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 03 Feb 2015 13:08:00 +0000

Loeffler Randall bag via Piperlime // J.Crew sweater // Old Navy jeans // Zara Heels // Janessa Leone fedora via Piperlime

Right now I'm in the "in between stage" of pregnancy where it doesn't really look like I'm pregnant just that I've gained some weight in my upper half. It makes getting dressed pretty depressing since I feel like nothing is flattering at the moment. I've been trying to hide under as many simple layers as I can and have fun with accessories -- like this fedora and bag from Piperlime. I can still fit into some of my jeans with the help of my BellaBand and recently ordered some maternity jeans which I'm excited to try!

Images by Krista A. Jones

*This post is brought to you in collaboration with Piperlime. Thanks for supporting the brands that keep this blog running.

Heart Shaped Pop Tarts

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 02 Feb 2015 14:18:00 +0000

I've been wanting to try homemade pop tarts ever since my sister made them for my bridal shower last year and I thought it would be cute to make a heart shaped version last weekend for our niece and nephews. While this recipe is really easy it requires a lot of steps, and a little time if you can't fit two cookie sheets on one rack like me. It's definietly worth it though- and since I used a pre-made pie crust it was even easier!

I used Smitten Kitchen's recipe, found here but just used pre-made pie crusts (I used 3) instead of making my own. I suggest rolling out your pre-made dough so it's a little bit thinner than it comes in the package and then using a heart shaped cookie cutter to get as many hearts as you can. With the extra scraps of dough I rolled out 2-3 more hearts.

For the filling I did a combination of strawberry and brown sugar with cinnamon following her filling recipes. For the glaze I used this recipe from Cooking Classy but added a bit more powdered sugar to thicken it up. For the brown sugar & cinnamon pop tarts I mixed a little of the filling mixture into this glaze and it was delicious!

5 Podcasts I'm Loving

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 23:45:00 +0000

Ever since Austin and I got hooked on Serial a few months back I've been really into podcasts. I listen to them when I drive and while I work or if I just want to lay down for a minute. I've found it's hard to find good podcasts - there are a ton out there but some are definitely better than others. Here are a few that I've been listening to, and I'd love to know if you have any I should check out! I'm hoping to find a bunch by the time our baby arrives in July because I know I'll have many hours to fill with listening while I nurse!

Image by Natalie Franke.

1. Serial: My podcast journey began with the hit series Serial. If you haven't listened yet I highly suggest it -this show is addicting and fascinating. I love Dateline and 48 Hours so listening to this was like hearing a better, more in depth version of these shows. Serial follows one story for the entire season, in first season it takes a look at the murder of Hae Min Lee in 1999 and the conviction of her ex-boyfriend Adnan Syed whom which the show focuses on. I will say that the ending has been described as disappointing to many but it's still worth listening to. I can't wait for the second season to begin.

2. Startup: We got into Startup immediately after Serial. As you may guess it chronicles one startup's journey to success -- the catch is that the said startup is a podcasting network started by Alex Blumberg, a former producer of This American Life. So essentially it's a podcast about starting a podcast and it's awesome. All of the trials and tribulations Alex and his co-founder go through are relatable to other businesses and I find myself waiting for a new episode each week.

3. Cherry Bombe Radio: I love to listen to this while I work on mindless tasks -- this show is essentially a radio version of the magazine Cherry Bombe which celebrates women in food and has great interviews.

4. After The Jump: This podcast is hosted by Grace Bonney of design sponge and I specifically like to listen to episodes that relate to my line of work but Grace also chats with some really inspiring leaders in the design world.

5. The 5AM Miracle & The Productivity Show: I'm not totally sold on either one of these podcasts yet but have found several of their episodes usefully - as I mentioned in my post about my years for the goal I'm all about working smarter this year and I've picked up some great tips from both of these shows.

Winter Neutrals

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 27 Jan 2015 13:02:00 +0000

Zara coat (last year) // J.Crew Factory sweater & heels (similar) // Ann Taylor Loft cords (40% off) // J.Crew tote (25% off now)

This winter it seems like everything in my closet looks good with these skinny white cords that I picked up after the holidays. They are getting pretty tight and I've been wearing them with my BellaBand since I still don't have a bump to really show I'm wearing my regular clothes as long as I can! And this cozy, oversized turtleneck sweater? It's also been on repeat and is perfect for both work and play.

Images by Krista A. Jones