Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Favorite Dresses Under $100

Dresses are pretty much all I wear during the spring and summer season. I just love the feminine flair and flow a dress has about it; plus let’s not forget to mention that it makes getting dressed super easy! 

I know it is the popular choice right now, given the current situation, to wear pajamas or workout clothes during the day, but I still like getting up and getting dress – it just makes me feel better. That said, online shopping has been more tempting {at least for me} than ever before… There are so many great finds out there and various companies seem to be running promotions on a regular basis, so it is definitely a good opportunity to get a few things at a great cost!

Here are a few of my favorite dresses all for under a $100!! Confession, I love the Eloise Tunic from Anthropologie so much that I have it in three different colors…terrible, I know, but it really is such a great everyday dress!

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

Favorite YouTube Fitness Channels

It is amazing how all of the sudden you realize all the things you used to take for granted. There were so many days when I would have to talk myself into going to the gym and afterwards I would always be so happy that I would. I am so looking forward to the days when I can have the option of going to the gym, but for now, finding a good workout video on YouTube is not only surprisingly easy, but also a lot of fun. 

Another thing about this situation that is surprising is the ability to adapt to a situation when you have no other choice. If you’re looking for a great at home workout, be sure to check out a few of these YouTube channels!
They not only make great workout clothes you want to wear 24/7, but I love their yoga videos. They have different levels of difficulty and class lengths, and let’s not forget to mention all their videos I have tried so far seem to have a great flow

Popsugar has a great selection of workout videos. My personal favorites are the dance ones… for some reason they remind me of 80’s workout videos and they are just so fun and a great way to get your heart rate up

In times like these there is never such a thing as too much yoga. Breath in and out, after all, we have to get through this while remaining sane. Yoga with Adriene is another great yoga channel and I always love it when her dog makes an appearance 

For all you Barre workout fans this channel has an endless amount of videos that will help you stay in shape and work on your form!

Saturday, April 18, 2020

Blue and White Love

One positive thing about 2020 that is indisputable is that blue is the color of the year… you gotta take the wins where you can! Blue is the color of the year every year for me. More than half my closet is blue and white… When you have blonde hair and fair skin it’s always the two safest colors to order when online shopping, plus, blue is actually my favorite color. 
There are so many beautiful great blue and white finds out there right now that I just couldn’t help but share a few. And added bonus…basically everything is on sale!

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Guest Post :: How To Be A Great Party Host

Summer is just around the corner and I know we are all ready for a little sun and some warmer weather. Summer gatherings and parties might look a little different this year {size wise}, but small or large, it’s always a great time to work on your hosting skills. Today Michelle has put together a fantastic guest post on how to be a great host for any party!
Achieving pro party host status isn’t something that happens overnight. It takes years of trial and error in the form of burnt casseroles, bad playlists, and running out of booze before you can consider yourself an old salt in the entertaining department. But even though most people aren’t born a natural Martha (Stewart, that is), it doesn’t mean everyone can’t become one. Here are some of our best tips and tricks for advancing your status from amateur to pro the next time you host.

Never Make Your Guests Ask for Anything
One basic philosophy to adopt as the host or hostess of any event is this: Never make your guests ask for anything. Consider yourself the giver of all things for the four or five hours your home is transformed into party headquarters, and try to anticipate a party-goer’s every need before they even have to ask. For example:

·      Always have readily available water, especially if there’s a lot of alcohol flowing and snacks being consumed. Keep a stock of bottled water on hand or go the eco-friendly route by filling a beverage dispenser with infused water.
·      Put salt, pepper, and condiments on the table if you’re serving dinner. Guests feel rude asking for this stuff because it may insinuate that they aren’t pleased with their meal, even if that isn’t the case at all. Always have them available if needed.
·      Keep blankets and throw pillows around, especially if you’re hosting during the chillier months. A cute throw blanket adds a layer of warmth and style to your home while also keeping guests comfy without them having to ask.
·      If serving outside, offer sunscreen and bug spray. Few things are better than enjoying a balmy evening outside with friends, but you want to make sure the environment is comfortable for everyone.
·      If dinner’s not ready, keep the apps flowing. If you’re hosting a dinner, guests will show up hungry. You don’t necessarily have to have dinner ready on the table the minute they arrive, but never let their bellies grumble and always have lots of snacks and munchies flowing until dinner is served.
Roll Out the Red Carpet (Or Make It Look Like You Did)

“Décor sets the stage for any party, and it also gives a great indication to your guests as to how much effort you've put into hosting them within your home.” – Rachel Hollis

If you’re a minimalist or like to keep things simple, décor is often the first thing to go. Why obsess over decorating when there are drinks, food, and playlists to worry about? In fact, decorating is just as important as the food and drink, in our opinion, and here’s why: It indicates to your guests that you spent time preparing for them, creating a special and memorable ambiance that’s wholly welcoming. While you don’t actually have to go all out, there are some small things you can do to make it seem like you did.

·      Choose positive, uplifting décor. For example, hang a wall tapestry with an encouraging phrase to indicate to your guests that your space is an open, creative environment where everyone is welcome.
·      Light candles or burn aromatic oils. Seriously, this is one of the easiest ways ever to transform a cold, vacant space into one that’s warm and fuzzy enough for entertaining. Choose cute candles with warm, cozy scents
·      Set the table if you’re serving dinner. We’re not saying formal is better, but taking the extra step of setting the table shows effort so your guests feel like you went the extra mile. You could even use place cards as an extra touch. 
·      Create a gorgeous tablescape. We’re talkin’ a real flower centerpiece from the florist (or the grocery store if you’re on a budget). Pro tip: Using disposable? Upgrade to the nicer stuff, like paper linen tablecloths that can be steamed or ironed, for the perfect mix of style and convenience.

When in Doubt, Overstock
When hosting, you can’t worry too much about cutting corners. While having a budget is important and often necessary, don’t let an unrealistic budget (or too long a guest list) leave you in an uncomfortable situation where you don’t have enough food or booze for your attendees. 

Here are some great tips to ensure that you never run out.

·      Have a backup plan. Always make extra food and keep last-minute items on hand (think: those amazing frozen appetizers from Trader Joe’s or a spare box of pasta and sauce) to cover overflow in a pinch. That way, if you have a few unexpected guests, you can improvise fast with what you have around.
·      Have a variety of drinks on hand. Variety is the spice of life, they say! It also helps prevent you from running dry when you’re having a party. Be sure to keep the basics around, including liquor, beer, white wine, red wine, soda, and water.
·      If they insist, ask guests to bring beverages. As the host, you should be taking care of 75 percent or more of the food and drink, unless the party was clearly labeled a potluck or a BYO (bring your own) get-together. If guests insist on bringing something, ask them to bring a bottle of wine or some beer.
·      Double up on plates, flatware, cups, and napkins if you’re going the single-use route. As an advanced host, you should be constantly keeping your eyes peeled for those marked-down paper plates and cocktail napkins so you constantly have a stock ready to go mid-party.
Put Your Soul into It
At the end of the day, a good host tends to be a person who enjoys hosting. That means spending a little extra time, money, and energy to facilitate the invitations, food, drinks, and décor. If you can find joy in the process, it will show, and your guests will want to come back again and again. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

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Friday, April 10, 2020

Links I'm Loving

I hope everyone is keeping healthy and safe and are slowly starting to settle into a new routine. It’s easy to lose track of the days and get caught up in the negativity of the situation, but there are always a few bright spots on the horizon. It is a great time to spend catching up on sleep, doing a few home improvement projects, work on a little self-improvement, and enjoy those who you are currently surrounded you. 

I cannot believe it is Easter weekend. 2020 has definitely had a lot of ups and downs so far. The holiday obviously looks a little different this year, but I love how people are circling around to help maintain the importance of Easter. Despite the fact that we are going through a little bit of a strange time right now, I hope everyone is able to celebrate Easter in a joyful way!

I obviously had to use the below picture in honor of Nation Siblings Day!
If you have been reading my blog for a while, you already know that I am kind of obsessed with Gourmet Makes. This week they made Cadbury Eggs and it so took me back to the 90’s. It also made me wonder why I never thought it was weird that the rabbit was the one laying the egg when I was little…

Beauty and the Beast was by far one of my favorite Disney movies when I was younger; I used to even wear a blue dress and an apron and walk around the house with a book singing all the songs from the movie {annoying, I know}. But to the point… is it just me or can anyone else all of the sudden relate to the lyrics in this song on an odd level?

Aside from the occasional gift with purchase promotion and the Lily after party sale it is basically unheard of for Lily Pulitzer to have a sale, especially one that is sitewide

In the 90’s you basically didn’t have a proper childhood unless you tie-dyed your own t-shirt, thought it was completely awesome, and to your parents embarrassment, wore it with extreme proudness every single chance you got. If you are looking for a fun DIY this is such a great how-to!

Did anyone else completely refuse to eat carrot cake of any sort when they were a child? Now that I’m older, I absolutely love carrot cake {and every other cake}. Every single Southern Living Recipe is pretty guaranteed to be delicious, and it is such the perfect weekend to give these a try!

Thursday, April 9, 2020

Binge Worthy Shows

Is it just me or has anyone else found themselves watching TV shows more than they usually would. Since we are all inside a bit more than we would normally be this time of year, it is pretty much the perfect time to binge watch a few of those TV series you have heard so much about at work or school and just haven’t had a chance to watch yet. 

Usually I prefer reading a book to watching a show, but between listening to the news and feeling a little antsy here and there, it just seems easier to get lost in a show. So I thought I would share a few of my favorite series to watch during this season of… {not sure what to call it…}. Here are some of my of shows to binge, a few old, a few new, and a few that just never get old. 

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel// This show is worth watching for the clothes alone; whoever puts together the wardrobe for this show just does a fantastic job! I love the fast paced script and the witty dialog. I cannot believe that Season 4 doesn’t come out till later this year… cannot wait for it!


Mad Men// Incase you can’t tell I’m kind of a fan of the 1950’s and 1960’s… Love the fashion and the history that surrounds those two decades. The series centers around Don Draper and the Ad Men of Madison Ave

The Crown// Queen Elizabeth was the original #GirlBoss before it was even a thing. The first two seasons are my favorite; I’m still adjusting to the cast change made for the third season… From what I have read and the interviews I have seen this historical drama really does an amazing job of pulling you back in time and just immersing you in the history that is the royal family

Gossip Girl// I love Gossip Girl. I was in college when this show first came out and I am not ashamed to say that I have watched the series all the way through about three or four times… 

Ozark// This has to be one of the darkest most addicting shows out there. A financial adviser gets involved with a drug cartel and ends up dragging his family into the whole thing. Get ready to stay up all night for this one… between you heart rate being elevated and the suspense of wanting to know what happens next, the only way you’ll be able to fall asleep is when you pass out from exhaustion 

Gilmore Girls// Such an oldie but a goodie! I remember all through middle school, high school, and college, Tuesday night at 7 I had to watch the Gilmore Girls. I love the mother-daughter relationship, Stars Hallow, and the people of the town. As corny as it sounds, I kind of feel like I grew up with Rory Gilmore

Love is Blind// Why are shows like these always so addicting? I’m convinced that they have to somehow be scripted, but that doesn’t make them any less entertaining 

Outlander// There’s time travel, elements of historical fiction, and a love story – need I say more?

Tiger King// Again, these shows have to be scripted, right? Still seriously entertaining though

Little Fires Everywhere// I read this book a few years ago and Celest Ng writing style is something to be admired. From what I’ve seen the book has been translated over into a Hulu series beautifully! 

Little Big Lies// While we’re on it, Reese Witherspoon did such a wonderful job of translating this book over into a TV series as well. So addicting.  

Call The Midwife// What can I say… I love a good time period TV show. Each and everyone of the characters are so appealing in their own way, and at different point through out the series you find yourself cheering for all of them

What are some of your favorite shows to binge? 

Tuesday, April 7, 2020

Guest Post :: Destinations You Should Visit When We Start To Travel Again

It is always nice to have something to look forward to, especially during the current conditions we are operating within for the time being. It’s probably safe to say that a decent amount of people have had to cancel their upcoming travel plans, which I know is disappointing, but there is always the future to look forward and a new adventure ahead. You have to remind yourself that this situation isn’t forever, and yes, we will be able to travel again {hopefully soon}. In the meantime it never hurts to start looking ahead and picking out a few places for you next trip! Plus, planning a trip is a great mental escape. Today Stella Ryne will be guest posting on the blog and sharing a few top destinations to visit when we can all start to travel again!
As this COVID-19 epidemic continues to spread it’s most likely your travel plans and plans of many other people who intended to explore different countries will have to be delayed. If you’ve already made plans and booked a plane ticket for your long-awaited destination, you’re probably devastated now and feeling sad that your plans have gone to waste. But don’t worry because most airline companies are aware of the whole situation and understand it, meaning it’s likely you can claim compensation or a refund.
Remember that this is only temporary and once this whole situation is over you'll be able to start travelling again. If you're not sure which places to visit once you start traveling again, here's a shortlist of some suggestions where to go to celebrate life once you get permission to leave your house and your country.

Sri Lanka

Photo by sasha set on Unsplash
Visiting the island of Sri Lanka is an experience itself. This ancient island is not only beautiful but also rich in culture and history. Sri Lanka is a destination you most definitely will enjoy visiting. This island is an epicentre of history, beautiful nature and wildlife, palaces and temples that have stories, and other ruins and relics. You can enjoy this island's cultural triangle and get a tour to learn more of it, or you can spend your time on beautiful beaches surfing and enjoying the waves, or you can do both. 
One of the most visited places and things you won’t be glad to miss is the rock fortress known as Sigiriya. Some people refer to this fortress as the eighth wonder of the world, but we’ll leave it to you to decide for yourself. If you’re brave enough make sure you use an opportunity to dive with blue whales or dolphins in Kalpitiya, a province which is known for its natural environment. 

Australia

Photo by Holger Link on Unsplash
One of the places you should visit is the land Down Under. This continent is one of the most remote continents and countries in the world, but this doesn’t stop people from visiting it and enjoying their time there. Australia is one of the most popular places for travellers and there are lots of solid reasons for that. If you’re planning to visit this lovely continent for the first time, make sure you start with exploring the capital – Sydney. 
The city is well known for its harbour and opera house, but there are other exciting things waiting for you too, such as wonderful parks, tasty food, delicious wine and surfing of course. Sydney is a place to be and a place to relax. If you’re not a fan of big cities and crowded places, make sure you find yourself a place somewhere outside the city which is not that far away from it, too. There are many different types of  accommodation you can rent, some of which are located in winemaking regions, like Unwind Hunter Valley where you can relax, drink wine and enjoy your holiday in the best possible way. When you’re done with exploring the capital, make sure you visit some other places that are worth your time. One of which is certainly Uluru – a huge round rock that will, believe it or now, take your breath away. This monumental rock has a lot of stories to tell and if you’d like to make this experience even more memorable make sure you visit it during the sunrise or the sunset. 

Italy


Photo by Cristina Gottardi on Unsplash
Italy should be at the top of a priority list of all the travellers who would like to explore Europe. This country is like a fairytale where you can easily get lost in the most delicious Mediterranean food and recipes, some of the best wine in the world and not to mention all the beautiful and friendly locals that you’ll get a chance to meet.  The most challenging part of visiting Italy would probably be making up your mind where to go first and from which region and town to start exploring. 
If you haven't been to Italy before, you might want to visit Rome first. This city is known as 'the capital of the world' since the Romans enriched and shaped Europe culturally like no other civilization before. Since the whole country is like a fairytale, Rome can be considered as an open-air museum where you can see the Colosseum or almost always crowded the Spanish steps. Rome is a perfect destination for all the lovers out there, so if you're one of the lucky ones get yourself and your partner a ticket and enjoy your romantic getaway to Rome and Italy.

Japan  


Another island you should have in your mind if you're planning a trip to Japan. This country is all you need, from tranquil forests and futuristic skyscrapers to peaceful temples - this is a place to be. Even though the Olympics have been cancelled due to the pandemic and will take place in July the following year, there are still lots of things to be seen and experienced in this country. 
The food in Japan is incredible, the public transport system is very efficient and people are way too polite. This sounds like a perfect combination, but where should you start with exploring this island? You can start with popular cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto and then move to more rural and quieter places where you can escape from crowded places and take a break at the different side of this country. Kyoto is considered to be the heart of traditional Japan, while Tokyo is an ultramodern part of Japan. 
In Kyoto, you might come upon geisha in colourful kimonos, tea ceremonies, forests of bamboo and temples in gold and silver. Since this city is one of the top tourist spots in Japan, try to get up earlier in the morning to make sure you visit all the popular temples because they can get crowded at some point. 
As for Tokyo, in this city, you can find lots of activities including tons of cat cafes, robots, maids, cosplay and other stuff. While you’re in this city make sure you eat in a tiny restaurant on Memory Lane and visit colourful digital art museums. 

Austria 


Austria is a country known for its wonderful and iconic architecture, Alpine surroundings where you can go skiing. This country is a perfect destination to visit if you're in need of a new adventure. Vienna is the capital of this lovely country and this city is known as a cultural heaven for fine art, music and architecture lovers. In this city, you can find lots of examples of Baroque, Romanesque, Art Nouveau and Classicist styles, structures and buildings. 
For all the lovers of classical music, this is the place to be, since Vienna has a lot of classical music concerts that honour well-known composers such as Beethoven, Mozart and others. This city is also well known for organizing and hosting more than 200 balls a year while the most popular balls start around New Year's Eve and usually last till the end of February. So, if you're a fan of balls and dancing make sure you visit this city during that period. Apart from Vienna, another place that you should visit is a picture-perfect town called Hallstatt.
This Austria village is like a fairytale covered with pastel-coloured houses and mesmerizing views. This place is so small that you can walk from one end to the other in twenty minutes. Hallstatt used to be a quiet place, but during the last couple of years, it has become very popular among tourists. If you’re planning to visit this place try going during the winter months (December-February) since this village is particularly gorgeous when covered in snow. 

Summary 

People enjoy travelling and having an opportunity to explore different cultures and countries. Many people tend to make plans and organize their trips in advance, to make sure they have everything covered. Unfortunately, no-one could guess that this world epidemic could happen and that it will affect every country on the planet. For many people, this all has ruined their plans for travelling, but once this is over you'll be able to travel again and enjoy your life. Till then stay safe at your homes and make plans which destinations to visit next year.