THINKING
A friend of mine from high school recently shared a photo on Facebook of some earrings from her latest jewelry line. I commented on how pretty they were and, a week later, a package arrived on my doorstep from her. I opened the box to find those earrings with a note that said: “I just knew in my heart that these were meant for you & I had a feeling you could use a little something to cheer you up.” It had come at a moment when I desperately needed some encouragement & her thoughtful gesture instantly brought me to tears. It got me thinking how I want to be someone who gives generously & makes time for random acts of kindness. I’ve already begun to look for ways to “pay it forward” – here are some ideas to try: pay for the person behind you at Starbucks; write a kind note to a waitress at the bottom of your meal receipt (along with a generous tip); email your child’s teacher to tell them how much you appreciate the hard work they do every day; leave a surprise box of cookies inside your mailbox for the postman. Even the smallest things can have such a big impact & bring joy to someone’s life!
LOVING
Round bags are everywhere this season and I love the unique shape & modern vibe they bring to a look. Crossbody bags are already my preferred size, so this is one trend that I feel fits perfectly with my lifestyle…which is why I’ve been on the hunt for one to add to my collection. This sleek minimalist style will go with just about everything (it also comes in cognac, burnished orange & black), though I’m also eyeing this pretty rose-hued style, this graphic textured option & this metallic bag.
PLANNING
The best part about spring finally arriving is it means that camping season is just around the corner. We bought our trailer at the end of the summer last year, so we only got the chance to use it a few times before we had to put it in storage for the winter. But, we will be going to pick it up at the beginning of next month & we already have 3 trips planned for May & June. I’d love to know if you’re interested in seeing photos here on the blog recapping our camping adventures – including where we traveled to, our review of the area & what I typically wear when we’re “roughing it”. (I just bought this cute graphic tee & this cozy top & pajama pants to take with us on our first excursion!)
USING
Even though I always have the greatest of intentions, I’m ashamed to admit that I don’t wash my makeup brushes as regularly as I should. So, discovering this purifying cleanser has helped me feel a little less guilty about those times when I can’t give my brushes the deep clean they deserve. The alcohol-free formula instantly dissolves makeup residue on both synthetic & natural hair brushes – I spray it on liberally & then thoroughly wipe off my brush with a paper towel to remove any build-up & residue. The best part is that it only takes 2-3 minutes for the bristles to dry before I can use my brushes again. It also comes in a travel size so you can try it out before you buy the full-size bottle (which is what I did). For more thorough deep-cleanings, I like to use this organic brush cleanser & this mat.
WEARING
I tend to prefer dainty jewelry over heavy statement pieces in the warm weather months & I’m currently obsessed with shimmery iridescent stones like opal, labradorite & moonstone. This stacking ring set is simple enough for everyday, but the eye-catching design adds just the right amount of sparkle. I went up a size so I could wear them on my middle finger & mix and match with other rings in my jewelry box. More dainty pieces I’m loving right now include these ear jackets, this delicate choker & these drop earrings.
CRAVING
I already own a pair of black & cognac slip-on espadrilles, but I love the idea of having a textured neutral pair that don’t feel too heavy to wear with silky shorts & airy sundresses. Right now I’m trying to decide between these embellished slip-ons & this cheery embroidered pair. But, I also like the fringe accent on these and the perforated detail on this pair. Help me decide by weighing in on your favorite style in the comments below!
Water’s Edge
Color Combinations ~ Part 1
Buried Treasure
The Maxi Skirt