2.2.14

Gift Guide ... Valentine's Day

When I was little, everyone gave each other Valentine's days gifts. Of course, this was usually because the teacher said we had to. But still, it was so nice to receive little somethings from your peers. Now that I'm older, Valentine's day is an excuse to remind my nearest and dearest that I'm thinking about them and how much they mean to me. Since I can't send everyone a gift, I have narrowed my list down to: my boyfriend, my mom, my dad, my best friend, and my brother. After a lengthy search, I have found a few things they may like, along with appropriate cards. Hope it provides some inspiration for your own gifts!

1. & 2. // For my love: This Mr. Boddington's Studio card incorporates my feelings, a little mush, and a nautical theme, perfection! The One Night Stand Potion incorporates Colin's love of anything sweet and his love of making well-crafted cocktails.

3. & 4. // For my Patty: Mom and I fell in love with Paris many years ago. What a better way to say I love you, than in French? I've sent her macarons before, but these are just too cute with their take on old school Valentine's day heart candies.

5. & 6. // For my dad: He lives in Peru now and I think appreciates receiving snail mail as opposed to email. I love this card's vintage feel. My dad's biggest thrill in life (other than his kids, of course) is traveling, thus this wonderful travel guide by the New York Times (by the way, there are other versions, with various destinations).

7. & 8. // For my best friend: Laura and I were in a sorority in college and that experience meant so much to both of us. Our symbol was an arrow, thus this very perfect card. This Breakfast at Tiffany's sleep mask is so amazing, I could use one myself! What girl doesn't want to feel like Audrey Hepburn?

9. & 10. // For my brother: I've been so jealous of his musical abilities my whole life, but I also love to celebrate his talent. This card covers that. As with most little brothers, I've watched my own play countless video games. I don't know about Nick, but I definitely love him more than video games.

11. // Last but not least: People often say, "don't forget about yourself!" - I rarely do. How unique is this tortoise shell clutch? (I have a feeling Patty may barter with me for it).

Happy gifting!

1.29.13

Around Town ... Olives and Grace

This past weekend, I was on a MISSION. The mission was to get myself to the South End and into Olives and Grace. Seriously. From the moment I saw what Olives and Grace was, I knew I had to see it for myself. This cute boutique is tucked away right off off Tremont St. Inside are the most carefully curated products from around the country, ranging from peanut butter to aprons to wood work. Not only did I walk away with great gifts but I also got the chance to meet store owner, Sophie. Hearing her talk about her vision for the store was inspiring. As an added treat, the very talented Sarah Sturges brought homemade good-for-you pesto and wine to try. All in all, it was absolutely lovely!

Run, don't walk. 

1.24.14

This Weekend, Why Don't You ... 

Watch, Diana Vreeland: They Eye Has to Travel

I watched this documentary over the holidays and I keep thinking about it. Before there was Anna Wintour, there was Diana "Empress of Fashion." I have to be honest, I didn't know too much about her before watching the film but was completely intrigued the entire time. The word fashion may put some people off but this was a woman who made a name for herself at a time when women were not expected to do more than stay at home and raise a family. Not only was she intelligent but she used her influence to completely change the way others saw fashion, art, beauty, and publishing. While the film celebrates Diana, it in no way sugarcoats her faults. If you have some free time, I would highly recommend checking it out (available now on Netflix).

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Happy Friday!

1.22.14

Lena Dunham + Vogue = Adorable

Today was not the best day of the week, but I just came across this video and it made me smile. Therefore, I am sharing it with you all because maybe you need it too.

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On to Thursday!

p.s. Raise your hand if you've also perfected your best cover girl look  - just me?

1.21.14

Escape to ... Juan Dolio, Part 2

The snow and rain fall has really made me miss my time in the Dominican Republic with my family. I mean, can a girl just get a break?! I love my cold weather gear - I even just scored some amazing deals over at J.Crew - but give me sun and I swear my heart starts doing a little dance. Looking at pictures of warm weather isn't as good as the real thing but it's nice to daydream while the snow falls outside.

This bridge reminded me of Boston's Bunker Hill Memorial bridge.

Walking around the village in Punta Cana.

Our view during Christmas day lunch.

Me, doing my best Patty. 

Watching my brother and friends playing a little beach volley.

Le sigh. 

I shall see you again DR, this is a promise.

1.20.14

Roasted Brussels Sprouts That Will Make You Forget They're Vegetables

I don't know about you, but for me the New Year brings the opportunity to start anew. It's almost like setting the refresh button. For my body, this means making smarter choices about what I put in it. Let's be honest, the holidays can really make us feel sluggish after all the food & drinks & merriment. To help myself out, I decided to look for a recipe that would taste great, be appropriate for football sunday, and wouldn't make me feel guilty. This one was awesome and so easy! Colin and I were pretty much fighting over who got the last sprout. I'd like to thank Anna for this recipe, I will be making it frequently. Enjoy!

Brussels Ingredients:

• 20 brussel sprouts, cut into wedges (I used a bag from Trader Joe's)
• EVOO (the original called for canola but I didn't have any on hand, I think it's really your preference)
• S & P

Aioli Ingredients:

• 6 tbsp. mayonnaise (I did half mayo, half greek yogurt)
• 1/4 tsp. garlic, minced
• 1 tsp. lemon juice
• 1tbsp. parsley

Steps:

• Heat oven to 400° F
• Place brussels on a baking sheet, drizzle them with EVOO
• Add S&P to taste
• Mix well
• Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden on one side
• While they bake, blend aioli ingredients - this can be done by hand, I used my NutriBullet

Make it, I promise you won't regret it!

1.6.14

Weekend Recap

Hello, 2014! Less than a week into the new year and already I feel like I am off and running. After touching down from the Dominican Republic (post to come later), I had two days to unpack and repack. We drove up to Montreal where we were greeted by below zero temperatures. Even though I was wrapped up like an eskimo, it was still a great time. Back in Boston, the snow felt like it was never ending. Regardless, seeing friends, having a date night, and enjoying a 49ers win was the best kick off to 2014 I could have asked for.

Our fourth New Years Eve together.

Le Bier Markt. 

Great beer based cocktails and a very LONG list of imported beers.

If you ask people in Montreal, this is what I looked like. 

Our drive home took longer with the snow storm, but it made for a beautiful view.

Friday night we braved the cold to check out State Park with our friends. 

It has only been open for a few weeks but it feels like it has been around forever. The food was excellent (Kentucky Hot Brown, pictured above), they had pitchers of mixed drinks, and games! If you're in the mood for shuffle board, pool, or pin ball machines, this is your place!

My 49ers went up against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday. In an attempt to make healthier snack choices, I made this roasted brussels sprout dish. Although the wrong color, it was a a hit (I'll make sure to put the recipe up soon!).

Tonight I'm off again, this time to California! 

I'm already loving 2014 so much.