Link Love (and Instagram!!!!)

Link Love

Link Love

Happy Memorial Day weekend!

We celebrate this long weekend in honor of the courageous men and women of the U.S military. To those who have fought to protect, have left their families to risk their lives (for us) in combat, are no longer with us because of their bravery in representing "good" -- thank you!

Enjoy your weekend and Link Love.

1. GAME CHANGERS. New flower delivery services, looking to change how we order and receive arrangements.

2. WHERE FASHION MEETS INVITES. Two creative brands come together to design swoon-worthy online invitations.

3. WEEKEND MENU. Planning a Memorial Day Weekend bbq? Feast your eyes on this.

4. BRAIDED BEAUTIES. A tutorial on two beautiful hair braids.

5. BAKING ALTERNATIVES. Roundup of baking ingredients, as an alternative to the traditional flours and sugars.

6. SALES. SALES. SALES. In between relaxing with friends and family, and toasting to a long weekend, take advantage of these fantastic promotions.

Link Love

It's good to be in the know. I have found since starting this blog last November, that I am more informed. I feel more educated on current events. I am well-versed in modern trends -- both in fashion and in home. I feel current in my knowledge about health and wellness movements. And, lucky for you, I love to share.

I learned a few new things this week, and I'm sharing them with you in this week's edition of Link Love. Pass it on!

1. CAMERA READY. In the market for a new camera? I am. And this site is more comprehensive (not too techy) than any other site I've seen.

2. ANOTHER USE FOR PLASTIC BAGS. Saw this and was enamored by the creativity and DIY possibilities.

3. ON THE HUNT FOR A FASHION DISCOUNT? Look no further than these two new sites that recently launched a full e-commerce service. Here and here.

4. WHAT'S COOKING? This. And I'll be eating it this weekend, for sure!

5. FREE. Adorable birthday card tags. For free! Here.

6. THEIR BACK. Sandals from years past are making a strong comeback this summer. Like these from Topshop. So cute. And only $45.

Image//Balloon Ice Cubes

Link Love

This week was such a great week. The sun came out in Seattle.....in full force. In a city that infrequently experiences such heat, smiles seemed grander and most people were simply.....happy. I wish it could last, but alas, the rain returns tomorrow.

The short lived glory of the sun inspired some Spring shopping for me. Nothing as stunning though, as this Edie Parker clutch held (in the image above) by it's designer, Brett Heyman. If only......

Have a lovely weekend my friends. Enjoy Link Love:

1. IT'S A BIRD. IT'S A PLANE. Nope, it's grilled cheese. This Australian pop-up restaurant delivers it's food by parachute.

2. EMMA STONE. Love her. Watch this and you will too.

3. MUST SEE. Can not wait to see this movie.

4. CINCO DE MAYO. 10 margarita recipes for Monday's celebration.

5. J.CREW ON A BUDGET. Reports are out that suggest J.Crew may be designing a new, lesser expensive, line of clothing and stores -- under the name J.Crew Mercantile. 

6. SONGS OF SUMMER. From the past 10 years. Listen here.

Image//Brett Heyman of Edie Parker

Link Love

The week after vacation is always so tough. Instead of lazy mornings, the alarm screams at 6:30. Goodbye to the mid-day drinks. Hello green smoothies. Lounging poolside is replaced by extreme exercise (to counteract the mid-day drinks all week long).

That said, on Monday morning, I jump started my week with a relaxed mind and a fresh perspective. This was a good week! How was it for you?

Looking forward to a weekend, spent with friends, celebrating Passover (a few days late) and Easter. Hope your weekend is lovely!

Enjoy Link Love.

1. OLD IS NEW. Birkenstocks are having a moment....again. I, for one, am less interested in the "hippie" slip-ons, and perhaps more interested in this version.

2. LEGOS. THE NEW NETFLIX? Moms have the best ideas.

3. UMMMMM.....OK. Jetset to Ibiza and stay here.

4. THANK YOU KELLY WEARSTLER. The 4-1-1 on styling accessories, according to Ms. Wearstler.

5. DISCOVER YOUR PASSION. With these 8 questions.

6. UPDATE YOUR HOLIDAY MAILING LIST WITH..... This idea.

Link Love

Today is our last full day in Phoenix. I am trying to not complain about the excessive heat, but with temperatures climbing to nearly 100. That's REALLY hot!

This weekend is all about re-grouping. Catching up on emails. Organizing and the not-so-simple transition back to the "real world." Hope your weekend plans require less "to-do's" and a whole lot of "nothing."

(And for those traveling home from Spring vacations....travel safe.)

1. OUI. OUI. Consider yourself a Francophile (admirer of anything French)? Bet you'll love David Lebovitz's new book. And, why not try his recipe with all of the leftover cheese in your fridge.

2. ARE YOU AN OVER-PACKER? Try this app to streamline your packing and save yourself the overage fees at the airport.

3. ALL WHITE. The 4-1-1 on keeping your whites......white!

4. EAT YOUR VEGGIES. In this delicious-sounding deviled eggs recipe.

5. THE PERFECT "HOW-TO." Denim cut-off shorts.

Image//Flowering cactus (live for only a day)

Link Love

Just wanted to quickly pop in before chillaxing with the kids and heading off to the pool (we are in Phoenix for Spring Break).

Cheers to a great weekend (hopefully one with sun and warm temps.) Enjoy Link Love:

1. 9021-O-M-G. I am fully entertained by these short clips (.gifs) from Beverly Hills 90210.

2. T-SHIRT CONTEST. This one wins for most comfortable. Just purchased a few for my vacation.

3. DESSERT FOR BREAKFAST. Captain Crunch + chocolate chip cookies = YUM! Here's the recipe.

4. WHAT DO YOU THINK? Do you like this trend? With this product, less may be more.

5. PERFECT BEACH BAG. In great colors, from here.

6. BOOK LIST. Leaving for vacation? You may want to review this book list of NY Times best sellers before you depart.

Image//Pool

Link Love

The countdown to Spring Break (my kids, that is) is on! And so is the pressure to feel healthy in a bathing suit. As I suggested in this yummy post, I've adopted a more wholesome way of eating. And, admittedly, I'm kinda liking it. It's amazing, when you truly think about it, how our bodies react to food. Good health in. Good results out. I'm a creature of habit, especially when it comes to food. So, for right now, this is working for me. Who knows what the future will bring (and by future, I mean, next week).

Any fun plans this weekend? For me, Kings of Leon concert tonight, and dinner with great friends tomorrow. Feeling pretty lucky.

Cheers to a healthy and carefree weekend! Enjoy Link Love:

1. TWO GREAT TASTES THAT TASTE GREAT TOGETHER. Coffee and mint, in one drink. Yes, please.

2. TIMES THREE. Would you do this in the name of beauty?

3. SCIENCE BEHIND DANCING. According to a Washington Post article, this is what women want from men on the dance floor.

4. THIS OR THAT. Use Google to compare the nutritional value of foods. Who knew?

5. NORDSTROM'S BEST. This is Nordstrom's current best selling women's shoe.

6. SOME FRIDAY FUN. I used this free (and super fun) service for this post earlier this week.

Image//Color (love how it's so dimensional)

Link Love

Hello Spring! To welcome the new season into our home, I purchased a pot of one of my favorite herbs -- thyme. It just represents all that Spring is about. Fresh. Clean. Stay tuned for some delicious recipes featuring thyme and other seasonal herbs.

My morning started bright and early with the chirping of the birds -- at 5:30. Gym, check! Off to an appointment, a walk with a friend, then some welcomed "me" time. I hope you get some "me" time in this weekend and enjoy some relaxation.

Happy Friday and enjoy Link Love:

1. PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT. Upload your favorite YouTube video link to Chordify, and extract the songs' musical chords for practice on your favorite instrument.

2. QUESTION: HOW ARE YOU PLANNING ON MAINTAINING THE KNOWLEDGE YOUR CHILD LEARNED THIS SCHOOL YEAR, OVER THE SUMMER VACATION? Answer may be Brain Chase.

3. WHY DIDN'T I THINK OF THIS. Happens to me all of the time. I'm at the grocery store, and while sorting through the produce, my eyes are drawn to the most stunning pair of shoes on the lady next to me. Where can I find myself a pair? This new application may be the answer.

4. I HEART PICNICS. Pretty sure I'd enjoy them even more on this gorgeous blanket.

5. SPRING ON A PLATE. Asparagus. The quintessential Spring vegetable. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish. I'm definitely adding this recipe to my list of Spring dishes. Bon Appetit!

6. WHICH BREAKFAST CLUB CHARACTER ARE YOU? Such a cult classic! Take a quick (and fun) survey to determine which character you are most like.

Image//Balloons

Link Love

My "Year of 40" celebration continues this weekend with friends who knew me way back when. Some over 30 years ago. Geez! To celebrate this new decade, we are traveling down to Portland, then heading to the beautiful wine region of the Willamette Valley. There is nothing to hide from friends who have known you that long. Relationships that significant come with absolutely no judgement and are simply.......easy and fun.

Looking forward to a weekend filled with laughter, memories shared and of course, lots of Pinot Noir.

Hope yours is as relaxing and enjoyable. Enjoy Link Love.

1. RESEARCH PROVES IT! 5 second rule really does exist (but no longer than 5 seconds).

2. (BEST) 90'S CHICK-FLICK COMES TO BROADWAY. Hollywood's favorite prostitute, is slipping back on her thigh high boots, and making her way to Broadway. Pretty Woman on stage!

3. FASHION COLLIDES WITH SPORTS. A fashionable collaboration between Topshop & Adidas is hitting stores next week. Marking my calendar, for sure!

4. ALRIGHT. ALRIGHT. ALRIGHT. Celebrities make their best impersonation of Matthew Mcconaughey in this video reel.

5. COFFEE = WATER. Tom's Footwear, best known for comfortable, stylish footwear (gives away a product for every product he sells), is entering the saturated coffee market with a similar philosophy. For every bag of coffee sold, they will distribute clean cooking and drinking water on a global scale.

Image//Willamette Valley, Oregon

Link Love

Whew! Feeling like I ran a marathon this week. I agreed to help a friend cater her birthday this weekend, and most of my week's time has been spent preparing for the event. The upside to this project....I have had the great privilege to work with my mom this week (she graciously agreed to be my sous chef). The downside....I have had little time to spend online and on the blog (which I have missed, tremendously). Saturday evening will definitely be a night of celebration. Both for my friend's birthday and my welcomed return to "me time."

Hope you can celebrate your weekend as I will be. Perhaps with a bright refreshing drink, joined by great friends and complimented by delicious bites. Cheers to you!

1. IT PAYS TO BE A PIZZA DELIVERY GUY. Last Sunday's Oscars pizza party, earned one lucky guy a $1000 tip.

2. THE 4-1-1 ON MARKET FLOWERS. A Pair and a Spare blog shares some great tips on picking the freshest market flowers.

3. FOR THE COMMITMENT-PHOBIC. CB2 has designed a line of self-adhesive and easily removable wallpaper.

4. CALL ME BLAINE COLEZAN. Keeping with the Oscar's theme, the brilliant minds behind Slate Magazine have created a widget to "Travoltify your Name." For those not familiar with the ooops moment of the Oscars -- John Travolta significantly mangled Idina Menzel's name when introducing her.

5. 4 SCARVES. 16 WAYS TO TIE. A lesson in beauty. This YouTube video (sponsored by Nordstrom) beautifully guides us fashion amateurs in the art of tying scarfs.

6. CHOCOLATE + WATER = HEAVEN. Science, in the most delicious form. Created by a French chemist, this Chocolate Mousse recipe, is quite possibly the richest, most dense mousse I've ever tasted.

Image//Strawberry Vodka Lemonade

Link Love

I learned about two new websites/services this week. Dot and Bo curates a modern selection of housewares, furniture, decor, gifts, etc and, similar to sites like One Kings Lane and Fab, discounts their inventory. Notegraphy is an app (but can also be used on the computer) that allows users to create beautifully designed notes to be shared through social media. The image above is just a small sample of what can be achieved with the service.

Hope you have a great weekend and enjoy this week's edition of Link Love.

1. DISNEY. STREAMED. The Hollywood Reporter reports that 400 titles from Disney, Pixar and Marvel, are now available by streaming on iTunes or downloaded. 

2. THE PERFECT GROCERY LIST. The Everygirl blog, has created a "simple formula to make the most of your grocery trip."

3. LEARN FROM THE BEST. Starting a new business? Looking for some practical advice? Goop has answers from several innovative business owners about their experiences and tips for new biz owners.

4. CAN YOU? WILL YOU? I challenge you to not touch your phone for 10 minutes. UNICEF will provide one day of clean water to children in need, if you do.

5. NUTRITION. BOLDER. LARGER. The FDA is changing the way nutritional labels look. Read about it here.

6. AN OFFICE WORTH SPENDING TIME IN. Chelsea Handler's interior design is sharing images of her client's office. Gorg!

Image//Noteography + creative text from ...there is always grey

Link Love

The countdown has begun. The first day of Spring is less than one month away. There are hopeful signs of the transition from the dark Winter gloom to longer, brighter Spring days. Flowers are blooming. My wine preferences have shifted from red to white (had this lovely rosé on Tuesday). Winter clearance sales are everywhere -- including 40% off at Nordstrom.

Look forward to celebrating the full seasonal shift soon. Until then, I'll enjoy my rosé wine, while hibernating in my home. Rolled up in a blanket. Eating warm comfort food. Lounging on the sofa.

Link Love

Happy Valentine's Day! Hope it's a sweet day and even sweeter weekend.

1. BOTTOM'S UP. In a "pinkies down" approach, Portland, Oregon based Union Wine Company has begun selling their wine in cans.

2. WHEN OLD BECOMES NEW. Paris design firms are unveiling plans to renovate abandoned metro stations.

3. SWIMSUIT BARBIE. Move over Kate Upton. There is a new Sports Illustrated model in town.

4. HOT KITCHEN SECRETS FROM EVEN HOTTER CHEFS. Menu ideas for tonight, perhaps?

5. WHY DIDN'T I THINK OF THIS? Liquor delivery...but only in Manhattan and Brooklyn. New Yorkers have all of the luck.

6. FOR YOUR FRIDAY VIEWING PLEASURE. Need a laugh? Melissa McCarthy is hilarious in this trailer for her new movie.

Top Image//Lips

Link Love

This week's buzz: a HUGE win for the Seahawks, and, oh yeah.....the Olympics. Admittedly, I didn't tune into the opening ceremonies last night. Not sure how interested I am in watching NBC's, 1,539 hours of coverage over the course of the event. You?

On to bigger and better news, right? Enjoy Link Love:

1. HIGH FUNCTIONING CLUTCH. emPOWERED has designed a clutch whose form is as brilliant as its function. The brand has manufactured a clutch collection with a mini-USB charging cable and Apple adapter inside.

2. STATE VS. COUNTRY. Which country's economy is your state equal to?

3. NEW YORKERS! NEVER LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT. A city map with every coffee spot from North to South, East to West.

4. FASHION TERMS - 101. New York Fashion Week (NWFW) started yesterday. Do you know your fashion vocabulary? Test yourself here.

5. MCDREAMY ABODE. Patrick Dempsey (Dr. Derek Shepard on Grey's Anatomy, aka "McDreamy") lives here.

6. ASIAN COMFORT FOOD. Made this last night. YUMMY!!!

Top Image//Will Farrell in Blades of Glory

Link Love

Super Bowl Weekend! It's here! Truth be told -- if the Seahawks weren't playing (being from Seattle, and all) I'd really only be watching because of the commercials (and for the chips and dip). I'm really a fair-weather fan. Cheering for my team when they are winning. Doing anything other than watching sports, when they are not. 

Whichever team you're rootin' for on Sunday, I hope it goes your way. And if it doesn't, find something else to celebrate -- like perhaps, binge eating and drinking on a Sunday (did I just say that??).

1. STARTUP SUCCESS BY THE NUMBERS. Interesting figures and graphics on the success levels of startups and their founders.

2. LOOKS MAY BE DECEIVING. Wanna look thinner. It's all in how you dress. Elle Magazine has cracked the fashion code on looking thin with style.

3. EVER WONDER?? What happens to clothes left at the cleaners? 

4. COMEDIANS OPINIONS ON LOVE. Just in time for Valentine's Day, twelve comedians express how they feel about love.

5. SUPER BOWL SNACKS. Gourmet Super Bowl snacks to impress your friends.

6. ODDS ARE ON VEGAS. A look at the business of betting on the big game. 

Top Image//Hungry Happenings - Chocolate Play Chalkboards

Link Love

You know it's been a fun week when:

a) you've rearranged your living room to prepare for new furniture, only to discover you prefer your old furniture to the new "planned" furniture. Winning!

b) you get your haircut -- FINALLY -- and realize that the handsome hairstylist left the back uneven.

c) 200 new visitors came to the blog in one day.....for (on average) only 8 seconds each.

d) the shoes you've been patiently (but with major excitement) waiting for, arrive after 2 weeks.....and don't fit.

e) all of the above

Link Love

Pretty great week, right? I celebrated by indulging in the last of Nordstrom's winter sale. Bought these hot pants. Hope your week was great as well.

Cheers to the end of a great week, and to the beginning of a greater weekend!

Link Love

I'm kinda, sorta, worn out by the "cleanse" of this week. But, the impact of this week's work was HUGE! Hope it was for you as well.

Happy Friday and enjoy this week's edition of Link Love: