MAKING
With the temperatures warming up, my family has been craving (& repeatedly requesting) some cold treats to enjoy after dinners on our back deck. I had such great success attempting our own homemade ice cream & popsicles last summer that I’ve started experimenting with some new recipes for the season. These creamy blueberry popsicles are vegan & gluten-free, but you’d never know it from the refreshingly decadent taste (you can swap in whatever berries or fresh fruit you have on hand). They’re quick & easy to make (I use these BPA-free molds) and I love knowing it’s a treat I can give my kids & feel good about because they’re low in sugar.
LOVING
I traditionally do a closet purge at the beginning of each season to help keep my wardrobe streamlined and ensure I’m truly wearing everything I own. But, I realized that I hadn’t done the same with my jewelry box in quite a while. So, I recently went through and carefully sorted out the pieces I haven’t been wearing to pare down my collection so it only contains jewelry I really love and/or holds special meaning to me. Doing this helped me identify styles that I gravitate towards and reach for the most often. This ring was a recent purchase that I’ve been wearing nearly non-stop since it arrived – it comes in four different stone options & provides just the right amount of subtle sparkle. When it comes to jewelry, I don’t mind spending a little bit more on baubles I know I will wear with great frequency because I want them to last. Other pieces I’m loving right now are this double-bar ring, this modern statement piece & this stacking set.
READING
Last week we found out that the private school where my kids have been attending for the last 5 years will be closing its doors. We were shocked & devastated by this news – the students, parents, teachers & staff had all become like family to us since moving to NY in 2010. The hardest part was having to tell our kids and watching their hearts visibly break right in front of us. They’ve both endured so much change in their lives with all of the moving around we’ve done…but, what we’ve learned through every stage of life is how resilient they truly are and how these difficulties only make them stronger & bring us closer together as a family. This article outlines the different phases of psychological metamorphosis & how to successfully navigate major life changes while allowing yourself time to grieve & heal – I found it so helpful not only for myself, but also in understanding how to help my kids through this transition.
WEARING
WEARING
I’m pretty well stocked on sandals for the summer, but I recently identified a gap in my closet when it comes to regular flats – though I have a few colored styles, I realized that the only neutral option I own are more suited for the fall & winter. So, when I came across these slingback flats, I knew they were exactly what I’d been looking for. The soft taupe makes them super-versatile and the lace-up style with tassel accents gives them a playful modern feel. Other neutral flats I considered were this ankle-strap pair, these bow flats (on major sale) & this scalloped style.
THINKING
If you follow me on Snapchat (ppfgirl), you may have noticed that I’ve started sharing photos of what I’m wearing each day. So many of you have responded and asked where things are from, so I’m considering adding a new page to the blog that would show all these photos in one place and link to the specific items I’m wearing – that way, even those of you who don’t use the app can see my #OOTD (this top was my most asked about item from last week). I’d love to hear your thoughts & if this would be helpful content to add to my site!
CRAVING
I love the idea of a fresh white bag for summer so I’ve been on the hunt for one since last year. This saddle bag is the ideal size for carrying just your essentials + the luxe texture, unique shape and gold hardware will instantly elevate any look. At full price, it’s a bit out of my budget, so I’ll be patiently waiting for a sale to scoop it up. I don’t often shop there, but I’ve been noticing how good the latest collection is at WHBM – like these striped shorts, this sleeveless trench (under $40!) & these suede heels.
Trend Watch: Velvet
Following Suit
Cheery Florals
My Monthly Edit