Leather Crush

THIS outfit recently caught my eye on Pinterest, and I'm sharing it over at long distance loving as my current 'outfit crush.' I have been seriously crushing on all things leather as of late...especially leather pants. I have yet to purchase any, but will definitely be hunting for a great pair this weekend. 

Here is how I would put this look together...

What are you crushing on? 

Counter Stools

Our kitchen is finally (almost) complete, and I am totally in love! We have a few MINOR things to do before I can say it is really done. One of the things still on the 'to do' list is to find and purchase stools for the island. I have been contemplating several different styles, and wanted to share them with you all. I am looking for a stool that easily blends with the space, and isn't too noticeable. That being said, some of the looks I am drawn to are more dramatic than others...I'm feeling a bit confused. Here are a few of my favorite looks.

Industrial

via Design Within Reach 

via West Elm 

via Crate and Barrel 

Elegant 

via Ballard Designs 

via Ballard Designs 

Sleek

via CB2

via Sears

via Overstock

I have to say, my current favorite is the acrylic (backless) stool. It would definitely blend with our kitchen, and I like the funky feel it would bring to our classic space.

Which is your favorite? 

Have a great weekend! xo 

My Beauty Must Haves

Being a new mom means having a LOT less time to myself, especially in the beauty department. It's all about how quickly I can throw my makeup on and curl my hair before she wakes up. This has really allowed forced me to cut out many steps I used to take and get 'back to basics.' Here are my must haves...many of these were on my list before becoming a mom, but these are the products I'm definitely using on a daily basis.

1. BeautyBlender + Cleaning Solution - a great way to apply liquid foundation; perfectly blends makeup for an airbrushed look (I use this sponge wet). The cleansing solution is a MUST - I used to use any antibacterial soap, but the cleanser works much better!

2. MAC Pro Longwear Foundation - one of my favorite foundations. I also use Mary Kay liquid foundation. The Pro Longwear foundation provides great coverage without feeling too 'cakey.'

3. Eyelash Curler - unfortunately, my natural lashes are not long and luscious...so an eyelash curler is a must!

4. Rosebud Salve - I am constantly applying Rosebud to my lips. It is the only product that continues to moisturize and make my lips feel soft and smooth.

5. Buxom Lip Polish - hands-down best lip gloss EVER. This gloss leaves a minty feel on your lips and plumps those babies up! As much as I have tried to find another go-to gloss, (it is pricey and doesn't seem to last long) I always break down and buy one three more. I just purchased a great RED in their new, 'full bodied' line; I'll be sure to update you on how I like that one.

6. Buxom Lash - Buxom wins again - my favorite mascara. As I mentioned, my lashes are not naturally full/thick, and this is the best mascara I've tried (and I've tried em' all).

7. NARS blush - I use NARS, Bare Minerals, and Mary Kay blush. NARS has so many shades to choose from, making it simple to find an 'everyday blush.'

8. Simple Cleansing Wipes - great for a new mom (or anyone with long days). My hubby first bought these for me while I was in the hospital, and they are great for nights when I'm too exhausted to wash my face, but don't want to fall asleep with makeup on (a BIG no-no)! I have very sensitive skin, and have never had a problem with these.

9.  Mary Kay Concealer - I have always had dark circles under my eyes, and waking up at all hours of the night definitely doesn't help. This is the best concealer for full-coverage; it covers any dark, red, or uneven spot and is a great price point!

10. Clarisonic Cleansing Brush -  I have the Clarisonic Classic, but have heard great things about the Mia as well (smaller, travel-size version). This is one of my 'essentials' when it comes to skin care - my face feels so much cleaner and more refreshed.

11. Angled Liner Brush - I use this brush for eyeliner, as well as eyebrows - both essential in making my eyes look more 'awake' than they actually are. 

What are your beauty must haves? 

One Month!

Happy one month to my babe! Can't believe you are already ONE month old - where has the time gone? 

I love you! 

xo

Mama

Burgundy...the New Black

Is it just me, or is burgundy the new black? I am loving the burgundy trend for fall, and have been spotting it everywhere recently. I have added a few items to my wardrobe, but am still loving so many other pieces in this classic shade. Check out a few of my favorite finds below. 

Have you added any burgundy to your fall wardrobe? 

New Art :: Lord Bodner's Octopus Study

I have been lusting after this print for a loooong time, and was shocked  thrilled when my husband surprised me with it as part of my 'push present.' 

the image that began my love affair...via 

The original is a copperplate engraving by Lord Bodner and was published in 1826 in London for a series of deep sea creatures. The print is available through Natural Curiosities. 

We just got the print back from the framing shop, and I can't wait to hang it up! 

Happy Monday! xo 

A Long Overdue Update (warning: photo overload)

Hello, and happy Sunday! Wow - so sorry for my MONTH long disappearance. As you may have guessed, I've been completely preoccupied with the arrival of my baby girl; we have been enjoying every minute as a 'family of 3.' Everything is finally starting to slow down, and we are getting into the swing of things.

My parents made the trip to CA on Sophia's birth-day (my due date!), and my mom stayed for 3 weeks (thank you, Jesus!). She was a gigantic help with everything from laundry to nursing - thanks, Mom! ;)

Sophia's entrance into the world was drama-free, and surprisingly much easier than I had anticipated. My total labor lasted only 10 hours, and no complications for anyone meant we couldn't have asked for anything better. Our little heavyweight champ came into this world at 8 lbs 10 oz and 22 inches long! I was in complete shock that she came on her due date - I thought for sure I'd end up getting induced. "This is the first time you've actually been on time for an event!" - my husband's (sad, but true) joke. Let me tell you, it's even more difficult to be on time when you have to get a baby and yourself ready -- something I definitely need to work on! And now...time for photo overload.

'push present' - wrapped to match her nursery ;) 

diaper card 

 first shopping trip - 3 days old

last pregnant picture

cutest little honey brew - 3 oz

3 days old (can't believe how tired I look) with papa

sweet baby 

bath time

hub's birthday 

beach time

everything in moderation...?

heading to the doctor

sweet little hands

dinner with mimi

sleepless nights

first glass of wine in 10 months!

I hope everyone is having a fabulous FALL (can you believe it's fall?), and enjoying a pumpkin spice latte or two.