Cheerful Flowers

We are having a snowstorm here on Thursday. I actually like the snow when I don't have to drive in it. But, it is gray here still, so I thought some lovely pictures taken last Spring at the Chicago Botanic Garden would be cheerful.

This is probably my favorite picture - all the tulips in bloom. I keep thinking I need to have this developed into a bigger size and frame it.


I would love to see these flowers in a cluster in a pretty white vase.


The refreshing and pretty waterfall.


The Bell Tower on Evening Island. In the evenings during the summer they have concerts on Evening Island and also bring in bell ringers from all over the world to do a concert.

Keep thinking Happy Spring Thoughts!

Cheers to Art

As part of my 2011 Resolutions, I am trying some new hobbies. Last Friday, we went to Cheers to Art in Madeira. This store/studio is amazing. As you walk in, they have a cheerful reception desk with shelves of locally made jewelry, funky purses and a BAR. Yes, you can have a cocktail as you create your own work of art.

The space is clean and airy. They have tons of art on the wall. Each class paints the same picture with your own interpretation. They also have open studio time, where you can paint your own canvas. This wall shows a few of the options that are available.

This is me working on my masterpiece - of course it is pink and green. It is titled "Swirls"!


Once it dries, you can take it home and hang it up.

Vintage 338

One of my favorite places in Lincoln Park is Vintage 338. It is a wine bar that also serves an amazing brunch. I really like the building it is in and the decor inside is a little contemporary and a little retro.

I enjoyed a new take on a Croque Madame. It was delish!

The Wine Bar.

I love this chandelier. I like the luxury of the crystals, but the toned down look of the shades.

Summer Essentials

We are two months into summer, but I wanted to do a little post on a few summer essentials for me. Of course, everyone loved Sandra Bullock (and her wardrobe) in The Blind Side. This movie inspired me to wear The White Watch. Mine is a Michael Kors from Nordstrom.


My summer bag is the Big Buddha Mia. (A funny note: this bag is vegan. Who would have thought?) This bag was an O magazine favorite in January 2010. I actually found it downstate at the gift shop in Starved Rock State Park. Definitely the best thing about our outdoor adventure. The color says tan, but it is actually almost a pearly light pink. This bag also graced the most recent Project Runway, runway in fuschia. There is a good chance the charcoal color will be my winter bag.

My summer shoe is the Elaine Turner Liz Flat in Raffia with Black Patent Leather Trim. This shoe also comes in a pink patent, but the black works with more of my wardrobe. I love these shoes because they are unique and comfortable. Most days my shoe choice is a peep toe heel, but depending on what I am doing at work, I have to cover my toes and these shoes do it perfectly.


My summer nail polish shade is OPI Strawberry Margarita. And yes, I like to wear it both my fingers and toes.

And with the ridiculous heat, I need the ever trusty Tervis Tumbler with me at all times. With a clear lid and a red straw!

I hope everyone is enjoying there summer!

Cruisin'

This year for my birthday, all the besties pitched in and presented me with a wonderful Trek Cruiser in Pink! Here is a picture of my lovely bike. I love the attention to detail. The pink handlebars have dark pink stitching as does the seat. Everything on the bike is perfect. And pink!

They even put an adorable pink bell on my bike! Now all I need is a little basket for the front. I have been scouring the internet for the perfect basket (at the perfect price). I can't wait to spend the summer riding my cruiser.

A Peek Inside

On many blogs, the bloggers give you a peek inside their room, car, purse, backpack, etc. I was tiding my bathroom and thought a shot of the medicine cabinet would be fun. A warning: I am a product junkie.



Top Shelf: Neutrogena Active Sport SPF, Aveda Tourmaline Charged Exfoliating Cleanser, Aveda Tourmaline Charged Radiance Masque, Fresh Linen Travel Candle, Eye Drops, Bumble & Bumble Straightening Gel, OPI Italian Love Affair Nail Polish (my go to color), Target Brand Eye Make-up Remover, Contact Solution and Contact Case.



Middle Shelf: Aveda Light Elements Smoothing Fluid, Aveda Brilliant Humectant Pomade, Aveda Hang Straight, Aveda Be Curly, Aveda Smooth Infusion, 2 containers of floss (I'm militant), Crest Night Whitening Toothpaste, Crest Health Toothpaste, Special Dental Rinse.



Bottom Shelf: More Contact Solution, Alba Eye Serum, Alba Moisturizer, Clean & Clear Toner, Aveda Dual Elements SPF, Aveda Tourmaline Charged Radiance Fluid, Aveda Tourmaline Charged Eye Serum, Aveda Tourmaline Charged Protecting Lotion with SPF 15, Aveda Tourmaline Charged Hydrating Creme, and finally Aveda Botanical Kinetics Toning Mist.



Obvi, I am a huge fan and buyer of Aveda. I have actually been an Aveda girl since 5th grade. I really believe in them as a company and trust in a product. When I am faithful to my skin care regime, these products are amazing. The Tourmaline Charged Products are wonderful, especially the eye creme.

Anthro on Thursday

As I was both drinking my morning tea and browsing on Anthropolgie. Of course, there are so many adorable lovelies on Anthro, but here are few that really popped out at me.

Tea & Crumpets Apron
I love the white ruffle, the pale aqua and of course, the Carrie Bradshawesque flower.


And while wearing my Tea & Crumpets apron, I would enjoy a biscuit from this very cute jar.


My love for Anthro and Elephants comes together in the adorable Elephant Salt & Pepper Shaker. I like that they are white and would really pop against a pretty table runner or table cloth.


Many months ago, I came across this picture and have been hiding it away, waiting to post it. Anthro's signature cups and put to a very unique use. I think this would be lovely for a bridal shower or spelling B-A-B-Y for a baby shower.