Sunday, June 16, 2024
Tuesday, June 11, 2024
Father's Day Gift Guide
I feel like it is fair to say that men in general are some of the hardest people to shop for… Plus, shopping for women is just more fun; I feel like there are so many more options to choose from…. Since Father’s Day is just around the corner, and men can be a challenge to shop for, I have put together a Father’s Day Gift Guide!
One// Peter Millar White Gorham Crown Lite Cotton-Stretch Sport Shirt
Two// AirPods (3rd Generation)
Three// 6 Piece Packing Cube Set
Four// Smathers and Branson Navy American Flag Needlepoint Hat
Five// Porsche 70 Years
Six// Tangerine Paddle in Santorini
Seven// Smathers & Branson Needlepoint Catchall
Eight// Stanley 40oz
Nine// Mark & Graham Graham Leather Hanging Toiletry Bag
Ten// Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
Eleven// Direction 12 oz Highball Glass
Tweleve// On Cloudmonster Sneakers
Thirteen// LAKE Pajama Men’s Pima Sleep Bundle in Anchor Blue Bar Stripe
Sunday, June 9, 2024
Saturday, June 8, 2024
Links I'm Loving
I had the hardest time letting go of spring this year… I love when everything comes into bloom, the weather is still slightly cold, and it is like everything is waking up again. I always dread the summers now because it gets so hot where I live, but now that it’s here, I am so enjoying the warmth of the sun, the longer days, and the calm that a summer storm can bring about.
I started listening to this book on Audible a few days ago, and I am only about 25% through the book, but it has been a really great read so far and the development of the character is really fantastic! If you are looking for a good read, I highly recommend this one
I love how Disney keeps rolling out Star Wars shows! I just had a chance to watch the first Acolyte episode tonight and I am so excited to see where this series goes!
Absolutely love the rich navy color of these shoes and the fact that it is a sophisticated sneaker! Comfort every time! Plus, how great would this shoe be for Travel!? Use code: SARAHFLINT_CCLAURENAID for 15% off!
Four// 50 Best Beach Reads of 2024
It goes without saying that summer and beach reads were made to go together. If you are looking for a little summer reading inspiration, then this is a great starting point!
I am currently obsessed with watching private chef Instagram accounts and Maddy DeVita of Hand me the Fork is one of my most favorite personal chef accounts. I have a thing about kitchens and think it would be so fun to go into other people’s kitchen and see what kind of cookware and appliances they have
Friday, June 7, 2024
Searching For...
Recently I have seen all over Instagram, TikTok, and the internet in general that if you are searching for the right person or even just someone to date, that if write down exactly what you are searching for, you and the person you are looking for will somehow find your way to each other in the next few days, weeks, or months. I honestly think there is something to karma and the universe working in your favor if you consciously send certain thoughts out into the void. Maybe this is a trend and an algorithm is picking it up or maybe it’s a sign…the hopeless romantic in me is going to choose to believe it’s a sign.
I’m trying to make an effort to share more personal things like this on the blog, because honestly, I feel really alone and slightly behind sometimes, and if I can make someone else feel slightly less alone in their journey or slightly less behind then being a little more personal is worth it.
In full transparency, the past few years have been really hard… going through a broken engagement and suffering a couple loses in my family… I feel like my heart has been through a lot in a short amount of time. As a side note, if you’re on the flip side, remember that it is always easy to say what you would have done when you’re not the one in the position and when you have all the facts.
It’s a weird experience going through a broken engagement and other negative life events… People love to tell you what they would do, or that they would have seen through something, or how they would feel… One thing I’m convinced of is that no one has life 100% figured out, and sometimes the best thing to do is listening, be supportive, and leave room for grace.
Maybe it’s simply because I live in the South, but for a while, a few seemed to lay the blame at my feet for the engagement ending, I the one who broke it off, but some even expressed that I had made a mistake… and when the news came out that he had a child that was obviously conceived while I was with him, I had a few people tell me that basically I didn’t keep him on a tight enough leash… After the breakup I found out he had cheated on two other women in his past relationships, so I definitely don’t think it was my fault. And for anyone who needs to hear it that’s in a similar situation, you know the whole story, and it really is not your fault. Maybe I’m being naïve, but I wouldn’t/don't want to be with someone I have to put on a “leash” or worry about their whereabouts; I want someone who is so completely in love and crazy about me that they would never dream about doing such a thing.
I saw a quote the other day, “To be lost is a state of mind; to be found is a journey of the heart”. I think there is some truth in that. I’ve met one person since my ex that made me feel found and appreciated, and I really wanted things to work out and really thought they would… But I am so ready to find the person who is going to end my search and who makes me feel found.
This is going to sound simplistic, but the main things I am looking for in someone, is kindness, understanding, willing to compromise when appropriate, even tempered, great communicator, honest, someone who I have a natural connection with, family oriented, and has a family who acts nice.
I’d also really like to end up with someone who enjoys going to museums, galleries, shows, plays, etc. Almost everyone I have dated has taken me to a museum very early on in the relationship, once, and then never again… I understand that it’s not some people’s cup of tea… I have a sister who is allergic to type of thing, which is fine, but even when I go on family vacations we bypass those activities because not everyone enjoys them… so I would really like to end up with someone who at least likes to do those type of things…
I have always been attracted to people who are intelligent, easy to be around, and have an ongoing curiosity about different things. I love Nashville, but I would also love to live somewhere else eventually, more specifically, somewhere in the northeast… I’m just ready for a lot of change and a new adventure, all the way around, but honestly, not a deal breaker.
This probably sounds like a given, but I’d like to be with someone who is supportive, forgiving, makes me/the relationship a priority, values me, thinks about my needs… I want a great love story with someone who is completely crazy about me (in a healthy way), really loves me, and vice versa. I want someone who likes to hold hands, express affection, doesn’t shy away when tears are involved or emotions are running high, someone I can laugh with, someone who can be a best friend, someone to pull me close when I’m upset, someone who is going to step up to the plate. Someone I can be myself with.
I want someone who feels like home.
Sunday, May 19, 2024
Saturday, May 18, 2024
Links I'm Loving
The older I get, the more I think to myself what a weird thing time can be… Each day is made up of a series of seconds, minutes, and hours… When things are going well I’m always so excited for the next thing and to get to this really great part of life. Then when things aren’t on the path I want them, my only wish is for time to slow down so I have a chance to make things happen. I feel like I want all of the things out of life and haven’t quite figured some of them out, and honestly wish time would slow down at the moment. In the meantime, here are a few links that I am currently loving...
One// The Best Ice Cream In NYC
I always love travel videos of the best of whatever, and honestly, who doesn’t love ice cream?! If you are planning a trip to NYC, live in NYC, or simply love ice cream, this is a must watch
Two// Red, White, and Blue Trifle
I love anything sweets related that involves angle food cake… This is such a great recipe idea if you are hosting or need to bring a Memorial Day dish to a party!
Cabana Life sent me some of their things a few weeks ago and I am completely in love with this brand and their mission. One of the founds actually had skin cancer and now make UPF clothing and raises awareness about sun cancer. P.S. Cabana Life clothing is a complete dream and I cannot recommend their things enough, especially their dresses! You can use code: LAUREN15 for 15% off you Cabana Life purchase!
I just love this song right, and Taylor Swift is such a Mastermind in the best possible way
I know I am behind the curve on this one, but I have fallen hard for huggie earrings and dainty earrings and Brinker + Eliza has such a wonderful selection!
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
Mother's Day Gift Guide
Mother’s Day and May has truly snuck up on me this year. I have always felt that May is such an appropriate time of year for Mother’s Day; it’s the peak of spring, everything is lush, green, in bloom, and absolutely beautiful. Even though Mother’s Day has snuck up on us, luckily, moms are easier to shop for than dad’s… Maybe it’s because I am a woman, but I always feel like there are more gift options for women than men, or maybe it’s just more for to browse for the moms in your life and you can treat yourself to a few things along the way! But, if you are a last-minute shopper, like myself, here are a few great gift ideas, varying in price range. (I have also linked everything over in my LTK if you would rather use that)
One// Tuckernuck Blanc Willow Blouse
I actually bought this for my own mom a few Mother’s Days ago in the blue and white stripe, and it truly is such a great classic piece to add to anyone’s wardrobe!
Two// Vietri Hibiscus Glass Pink Bud Vase
This is also another item I gifted my own mother for Mother’s Day a few years ago. It is a beautiful piece that will last a lifetime and it is under $100!
Three// Marble Honeycomb Cheese Board
I honestly feel like everyone needs a cheeseboard in their kitchen, and even if someone already has a cheese board, everyone needs one with little gold bees…
Four// Marble Honeycomb Cheese Board with Honeycomb Cheese Knives
Obviously… the knives are a must have to go with the cheese board, and they are honestly a great stand-alone gift as well
Five// Gucci Bloom Eau de Parum Gift Set
I feel like this set was packaged with Mother’s Day in mind. One can never have too much perfume, and this is such a great set to add to anyone’s collection
Six// White & Warren Travel Wrap
This is such a wardrobe investment and the quality of these will last you for decades. They can be used year around and I love how they come in so many different colors to fit various personalities
Seven// Strathberry Mosaic Bag
Kelly Rutherford has been showing case this bag in her Instagram pictures on repeat, so I feel like that speaks volumes. I love the classic lines of this bag and the hardware matches the fashion of now. I really feel like this is a can’t go wrong bag, and it is another piece that is an investment piece
Eight// Mark & Graham 5 Piece Packing Cube Set
If you have a passionate traveler/packer/organizer in your life, than this is for them. I have honestly been meaning to get one of these sets for myself…
Nine// Hermes Rosy Lip Shine Enhancer
Truthfully, I had to include this because the color is just so perfect for Mother’s Day. This is a bit of a luxe gift, but their beauty products are definitely a treat and worth the splurge
Ten// Krewe St. Lous Classics in Pink Plaid
At this point, I think it’s safe to say that pink is the color I associate with Mother’s Day… Krewe glasses are hands down my favorite. I feel like the style and shape of the St. Louis is flattering on everyone, and these are another piece that will last you for years
Eleven// Sarah Fling Natalie Sling
These are one of my favorite styles from Sarah Flint. So comfortable and can easily be worn for three seasons, and depending on where you live, every season! Sarah Flint is currently having their buy more save more event, so it is the perfect time to treat you and the mom(s) in your life!
Twelve// Together at the Table
Coffee Table books always make such a perfect, elevated gift, and this one is just $50!
Thirteen// La Mer The Crème de la Mer Duet
I feel like this is every moms favorite cream; and lets face facts, moms do a lot, and definitely deserve a few moments of pampered skin care each night!
Fourteen// Relaxed Button-up Shirt
This is my mom’s favorite shirt – she has them in at least 20 different colors and wears them all summer long. Honestly, these are great timeless pieces for all age ranges!
Sunday, May 5, 2024
Friday, May 3, 2024
Goals & Dreams
Up until a few year ago I used to think that goals and dreams were two entirely different things; dreams were something that were lofty and something that more than likely would not come true, and goals were something that were more concrete and attainable. However, at some point I started to feel like goals and dreams are synonymous with each other – they’re both a vision that we hope will come to life one day. So, if anyone ever refers to you as a dreamer, I would view that as one of the best compliments because it means you have a lot of vision for yourself.
The past few years have undoubtedly been crazy on some level, good or bad, for every single person, and sometimes that can shift our thinking, or at least it has for me, or more accurately the vision I have for myself. So I thought it would be fun to share a few of my hope, dreams, and goals with you all!
One// Live in a different city
If someone told me ten years ago that one day I would want to live somewhere other than Nashville, I would have thought they were crazy. I think it’s a combination of life events, visiting different places, and living in a city that is constantly changing. I still think Nashville is a wonderful place to live, but as the city has turned into a tourist destination and desirable city for anyone and everyone to move to, from the perspective of a local, I feel like there is less and less to do… and more gimmicky things…
Starting about six years ago, I started to think that it would be fun to live somewhere else… I’m honestly open to anything and everything that life has to offer right now, and honestly who knows where life will take anyone… For now though, I hope to end up in the New York or New England area one day… I have some family that is from the city and upstate New York and the New York area speaks to my heart, and the New England area sings to my soul. I honestly feel like a puzzle piece that fits in there and that area aligns with some things I eventually would like to do, but whether I leave or stay, I will always be rooted in the South.
Two// Write a Book
I feel like this is possibly a lofty goal/dream, but I feel like this is a case of if someone else can do it then I can as well. I think it would be one of the neatest things to walk into a bookstore and see a book on a shelf, that I wrote. I feel like I have a few stories in me… I have actually started some stories, so deep down I feel like this is a wish that will hopefully come true
Three// Have a Family
This is the one I want the most, the one I worry about the most, and the one I really, really hope happens. If you’ve been reading my blog then you know that I broke off an engagement a few years ago, and let me just say, the dating world is interesting… I set on not settling, and I actually say a prayer every night on the subject…
Since my ex, I have dated one person who I really thought was it, but he disappeared, I kind of feel like it was my fault… but on the other hand, the right person probably wouldn’t go silent because someone was having a moment… Truthfully, I’m more than ready to feel settled, and have a team mate again, and someone to share in the excitement of life with again, so I hope the search comes to an end very, very soon… If you are or know a James Stewart type feel free to email me…. But until that happens there is always the hope that the right person is out there.
Would love to hear some of your hopes and dreams!
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Links I'm Loving
Where has the time gone? I feel like it’s slightly depressing that the year is going by so fast… sometimes I wish life had a remote… we could savor the good moments, fast forward through the bad, and rewind to correct the mistakes. However, I am enjoying the spring weather; the blooms are seriously such a gift from mother nature!
I feel like I have been having a major gold moment in my current jewelry journey. I am completely swooning over the collaboration J. Crew and Catbird have dreamed up, and apparently I am not the only one because some items have already sold out… Be sure to check out this dreamy collection before everything is gone!
Two// Sarah Flint Mid-Spring Event
PSA Sarah Flint is currently offering 40% off select items {even some of their newest shoes}! I love a sandal moment and this is one sale that is not to be missed! You can also use code SARAHFLINT_CCLAURENAID to save 15% on all non-sale items
Merit has become one of my new favorite makeup companies and I love the fact that all of their products are “clean”. If you are new to Merit they have a set collection which I absolutely love – it’s the perfect way to either try some products out or create a whole new makeup collection!
I recently came across this brands Instagram and I think I have seen some of their things on Anthropologies website, but I am completely smitten with their clothing, specifically their tennis skirts…
Five// Vogue Inside Emma Robert’s LA Home
Vogue videos are my guilty pleasure… from makeup tips to celebrities’ fashion journeys to home tours, I love them all! Loved seeing inside Emma Roberts home and seeing what her decorating taste is like
Sunday, April 14, 2024
Friday, April 12, 2024
Daughter of Mine
Spring has sprung, the weather is warming up, and the season of for reading a ridiculous amount of books if finally here. Honestly, any time is a perfect time to read a book, in my opinion, but there’s something about sitting by pool, on a beach, or even the comfort of your own back porch that makes the reading experience that much sweeter. Megan Miranda is such a talented suspense writer. The first book of hers I read was “All the Missing Girls”, and I was hooked after the first few pages. Her newest book, “Daughter of Mine”, is another suspense that is pretty much impossible to put down.
Miranda has an amazing talent for weaving a web of drama, mystery, conflict, twists that will keep you guessing with each turn of a page, that will draw you into a dynamic world she has created.
The death of Hazel Sharp’s father, detective Holt, brings her back to her hometown of Mirror Lake. On the heels of detective Holt’s death, a drought begins to unearth some secrets from years ago. In the small town of Mirror Lake, where everyone knows everyone, and everything that is going on, the town can’t stop buzzing about a car that the drought reveled that had been found in the lake with its license plates missing.
In quick order Hazel soon finds out that she has inherited the family home, which brings another layer of drama and conflict. Shortly after another car is discovered in the lake, but this time, in the lake that is right behind the house Hazel just recently inherited.
Hazel soon begins to wonder if the two cars are related to her mother’s departure decades ago… She soon starts an investigation of her own once she finds out that her brother’s wife and once childhood friend has gone missing. With the mystery of her mother and her missing sister-in-law Mirror Lake soon starts to take on the light as a town being full of secrets and dark corners.
If you have not picked up your copy of “Daughter of Mine” yet, I highly recommend this book. The writing and storyline is simply fantastic. If you are a fan of mystery and suspense you will absolutely love this book!
Sunday, April 7, 2024
Saturday, April 6, 2024
Links I'm Loving
Is it just me or does anyone else feel like this year is going by at a lighting pace? I feel like time is literally like sand running through my fingers at the moment. On a lighter note, I am so glad it is finally the weekend and I am so loving the fact that Nashville is going to experience one last cold and cozy weekend before the hot days of summer take hold of everything.
Lilly Pulitzer is one of those brands that does not have a sale very often, so you have to take advantage when they do; some styles are even under $50! This is the perfect opportunity to stock up for all your summer events that are just around the corner!
Two// How To Know If Your Solar Eclipse Glasses Are Fake
The excitement surrounding the upcoming solar eclipse is beyond contagious. I never thought of someone trying to take advantage of the situation and sell fake glasses until I read this article from Martha Stewart’s website…
Three// Claire Saffitz Peach Cobbler
I have been such a fan of Clair Saffiz since her days in the test kitchen on bon appetit. In my opinion it is always a perfect time of year for a cobbler of any sorts and peach cobbler with a scoop of ice cream on top is my absolute most favorite.
Four// Sarah Flint Secret Garden Scarf 90
I have a slight scarf obsession… I feel like buying a nice scarf can always be justified, because it is something that will always be in style, and really nice scarves are something that can turn into a generational piece. This new scarf from Sarah Flint is simply stunning! The elements of art that went into creating this piece and the design is really very stunning and timeless. Use code: SARAHFLINT_CCLAURENAID to save 15% on your order!
Merit is one of my newest makeup obsessions. I love the whole “clean” movement that is taking place within the makeup industry right now. So far my favorite product has been the ‘Flush Blam Cream Blush”!
Sunday, March 31, 2024
Monday, March 25, 2024
Links I'm Loving
I feel like this past week was a complete bluer and everything just kind of blended together… does anyone else feel that way? I’m always so torn around this time of year – I love the spring weather, flowers, and the fact that the earth is coming back to life, but at the same time I am always a little sad to leave the cozy months behind. To be completely honest time markers, like the start of a new season always make me panic a little… I have a list of things I want to experience and accomplish, and I feel like the passing of a season is another reminder that time is moving on wheatear I’m ready for it to or not. On a sunnier note, with each new week, month, season, and year, there is always a sense of renewed hope. For now, here are a few links from this past week that I am completely loving!
One// Claire Saffitz Best Cinnamon Rolls of Your Life
I feel in love with Claire Saffitiz’s cooking videos when she was on Bon Appetit; her videos are entertaining, fun, and relaxing. Plus, these Cinnamon Rolls look amazing!
Two// Hill House Home The Harper Lady Jacket Cardigan
My grand-millennial loving heart has completely fallen for the cardigan and Lady Jacket trend that is currently underway. This Cream colored Lady Jacket from Hill House is so beautiful and so classic, and can be worn pretty much year round. Absolutely love it!
I have a new found love for stars and all things space related; it’s just really humbling to think that we are a small piece of something so big. This article tells you how to see the upcoming Lunar Eclipse!
Krewe is without a doubt my most favorite sunglasses ever, it’s honestly turned into a bit of an addiction. This is a fantastic sale – all sale items are up to 70% off, and this is a company that does not have a sale very often
Five// Tour of a 5th Ave Penthouse
I was in NYC on and off last year, and I feel completely in love with the city, the vibe, and all the exhibits, shows, culture, food, and shopping that’s at your fingertips. I honestly want to move there one day… Nashville is a wonderful city to live and to visit, but honestly, we’ve had such an influx of people move here and just the amount of tourist, it makes me feel really boxed in sometimes… So obviously I now follow a ridiculous amount of NYC Instagram accounts. The apartment this realtor shows in this reel is amazing, and the light fixtures are incredible!
Sunday, March 24, 2024
Friday, March 22, 2024
Current Nighttime Skin Care Favorites
Skin care is having such a big moment right now, and I am completely here for it. I think I was twenty-five when I first started paying attention to skin care, and I honestly wish I would have paid attention to it earlier. Honestly, up until about nine years ago, my skin care routine was a little touch and go… I might do it and I might not depending on my mood… I have to say, consistency is key, and I can tell such a difference in the quality of my skin and the difference in hydration. If nothing else, I feel like having a nightly skin care routine is very relaxing!
There are so many great skin care products out right now and I thought I would share my most used and favorite nighttime products at the moment! P.S. most, if not all, my favorite skin care is linked in my Amazon store front!
My eyes are something I always feel self-conscious about when it comes to taking pictures… I feel like they always give away my age… Patchology eye patches are amazing! I keep these in the fridge for the cooling benefit aspect and they do such a great job of minimizing dark circles and puffiness.
Caudalie Vinoperfect Dark Circle Brightening Eye Cream
I really like how this cream come in a squeeze tube with a nice applicator tip. If feels so soothing going on and I just love it!
I also use this face mask and this face mask, but I feel like the Jet Lag Mask is just a really great mask to use on an everyday basis; especially during cooler months, travel, or in elements when your skin may need a little extra hydration.
Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum
I purchased a few Drunk Elephant products just to see what all the hype was about, and the B-Hydra Serum is one of my favorite skin care products at the moment. I love how hydrating it is and the fact that it is safe to apply to the eye area. I also tried the Protini Polypeptide Cream, and I could tell a difference within three days. Honestly, I had pretty low expectation about Drunk Elephant just because of the age group this brand appeals to, but their products are very top notch, and I love their packaging!
Magic Cream is one of my tried and true products that I always come back to. I love it for night time because it does have a thicker consistency, and I feel like it helps to moisturize my skin over night
Omorovicza Queen of Hungary Evening Mist
With Queen in the name how could this product be anything but wonderful! I love a face mist; they are so refreshing, smell great, and I feel like they lock everything in, from skin care products to make up. This face mist is actually supposed to protect the skin overnight, and I can always tell a noticeable difference in when I use this product and when I don’t… Every time I use this I always wake up with softer, smoother skin
A few years ago I learned that you’re supposed to start using a retinoid cream once you turn twenty-five, so if you’re twenty-five or over I highly recommend this cream. This is another product that produces a noticeable effect in a short amount of time.
And of course, no skin care routine would be complete without a roller of some sorts. I actually find this part to be so relaxing and a nice little facial massage
Would love to hear what some of your favorite nighttime products are!
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