Monogrammed Gems

I have yet to write my letter to Santa, but when I get around it, I'll be sure to ask him for a piece of monogrammed jewelry with Sophia's initials.  There are so many beautiful baubles out there, and I've rounded up a few 'high' and 'low' pieces. My favorite is the engraved glass pendant - how unique is that? It reminds me of a family heirloom - swoon! There's just something so precious about monogrammed gems, don't you think? 

  

What's on your Christmas list? 

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? 

Arm Candy

I love accessorizing my wardrobe with jewelry. There is no limit to what you can create, and jewelry can transform any old outfit into an eye-catching look. My must-have accessory remains the bracelet. I feel naked without mine; most nights, I even sleep with them on. My favorite way to don the bracelet: stacked. Nothing has me swooning more than an arm-full of beautifully stacked bangles, beads, or cuffs...I don't discriminate.

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Here are a few 'stacked' looks I am currently crushing on...a few of these could be fun DIY projects, I'll keep you posted! Which set do you love? Do you decorate your arms with stacked bracelets? I'd love to see! 

neon pink & chains - ivory leather wrap - red & gold bangles - white, turquoise & coral bangles - ivory & gold bangles - gold & turquoise bracelet - blue stone cuff - wood beads & tassel bracelets - black leather wrap bracelets - pastel & pearl bangles - indian bangles - colorful geo cuff

Homemade Jewelry Cleaner

I love having clean jewelry, who's with me? Nothing bothers me more, than to look down at my engagement/wedding rings, and find them looking dirty! Having clean gems (especially diamonds) just makes you feel good...right? I'll admit, cleaning jewelry can be a pain, but I have a great homemade solution for you. This is a 'family' recipe and has been passed from my Grammie Cakes (grandma), to my mom, to me. It is extremely simple, and you probably have all of the necessary items in your home today. 

You Need:

1 clean, glass jar

Ammonia 

Dawn 

Water

Directions:

Mix 3 parts ammonia, 1 part water, and 3 drops of Dawn

(i.e. - I used 1 c ammonia, and 1/3 c water) 

voila! 

This solution is extremely simple, and works wonders on your favorite pieces! I keep mine under my bathroom sink, and drop my jewelry in while I get ready. When I finally give up the fight with my hair finish primping, I find perfectly cleaned rings that make me feel like this...

 "Look! They're clean!" 

Show Your Mom Some Love

I love my mom...but really, who doesn't love their mom? I happen to have the most amazing mother a girl could ask for. There is just something special and unique about that mother/daughter bond...and my mom is truly my best friend. Love you, Mom!

love this shot of my mom 

I have already signed, sealed, and shipped my mama her gift...but put together some ideas for those of you who have yet to purchase something for your mom. My favorite is the adorable color block apron from Anthropologie -- what's your fave? 

Happy Mother's Day to the world's wonderful mothers (and mama's to be!) -- where would we be without you? 

Necklace // iPhone Case // Apron// Live Hydrangea// Countertop Spray// Clutch// Hat// Floral Scarf// Camera

My Weekend

Hello - Happy Monday! How was your weekend? Mine was pretty relaxing and low-key, here are a few snapshots from my camera roll...

  

the hubbs returned from a week-long business trip to Seattle with a new sleep-shirt for me (score!) - this was the longest we have been apart since we met - it was great to have him home

recent forever 21 purchase (less than $20) - old h&m jacket

his cinco de mayo...

...and my cinco de mayo

delicious watermelon

cute campanula from my mama

1/2 caf coffee -- a new indulgence 

heart-shaped yam

beautiful kendra scott earrings from my mama

loving the feel of this room - open house outing