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“The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.”--Audrey Hepburn

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Christmas at Home

I am behind, really really behind when it comes to sharing my wonderful time at home in Minnesota for Christmas.  I thought it'd make a perfect post for Daphne's {Semi} Wordless Wednesday.


First came lots of packing. . .

 Including some new gifts that I had opened from the bf.

As always, there were gorgeous decorations at the bf's family's house in Chicago.

 A patriotic tree at the airport. . .

And finally home!

 And this post now can include the most exciting news ever--I am the proud auntie to a new baby nephew born last night!  Can't wait to see my brother as Daddy. :)

I had a wonderful time in Minnesota spending time with my family.  There was a lot of sleeping in, shopping with my youngest brother (he can even outshop me!) and wonderful food.  I hope you all had a very special Christmas and are not feeling as behind as I am!

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Jason Wu for Targey

Just as Missoni items are popping back up on the Target site, Target Style shared some lovely images of Jason Wu's upcoming collection on facebook.  The line debuts February 5, and I think everyone is hoping it goes a bit smoother than Missoni.

This adorable navy one has been the star of recent advertising.

This trench was in InStyle this month and the lace details are tres parfait (but difficult to see here).

Mr. Wu also designed bags, my favorite being the black clutch.


And this is definitely my favorite with the black lace peeking out.

What do you think?  Any pieces you must add to your closet?

Friday, January 6, 2012

Friday's Fancies Best Foot Forward

To keep the holiday spirit going just a little teeny tiny bit longer, I am officially the crazy one at work, wearing full on sequins.  Sequin Friday.  It might be a new hit.  For today's Friday's Fancies, I let these gorgeous Tory Burch shoes be the spotlight (I would definitely be putting my best foot forward!) while adding on a bit of confetti, perfect glasses for a night with your beau, a statement necklace from my girl, Kate, and an Oscar de la Renta dress that I would never want to take off.

Friday's Fancies Best Foot Forward





Join the fun with {av} for another fab week of fashion daydreams. ;)

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Lilly Sale Goodies

Lilly Sale Goodies



The waiting game is on for many Lilly lovers as we wait for our Lilly packages to arrive.  I had a bit of a credit, so I picked up a few pieces, but was impressed I was able to choose just a few classic pieces instead of going too crazy.  I am definitely going to replicate this look with the Shere.  How have I never belted my Elsas like that?  Were you able to resist temptation, or did you pick up any goodies?

Saturday, December 31, 2011

Happy New Year's Eve!

I hope 2012 brings YOU much joy, laughter, and a bit of bling. ;)

Monday, December 19, 2011

Perfect (almost) Christmas Weekend

Friday night, Midwestern Miss and I went to one of our favorite burger places and split one of the best milkshakes ever--homemade mint chocolate chip.  It was pretty much tied for best food ever with the homemade chips and cheese dipping sauce.  It was great to see her and have a fun night, but I'll miss her as she moved out of the area because she's done with school!  Can't wait to jealously gchat with her while she's in Florida studying for the bar. ;)


Saturday morning I woke up early to volunteer for Junior League. Waking up to snow was a wonderful surprise and it really got me into the holiday spirit.  Driving home in it after volunteering with unplowed roads on the other hand. . .

I have wanted a dutch oven for awhile, and finally found one that was perfect!  I bought a gorgeous Staub in blue with 4 matching mini croquettes.  I used them to make crab mac and cheese (recipe must be shared soon) for a special Saturday night dinner with the bf.


Since we part for Christmas, each going to home, we decided to start a fun tradition this year and have a special "Christmas" night together.  We had wonderful food (pomegranate champagne sparklers for me, crab mac and cheese, roasted asparagus, and steak!) and opened presents while listening to Christmas music.  Luckily I found the Lilly stockings I had made a couple years ago just in the nick of time as they were hiding in a box in storage separate from my other holiday decor.


The bf totally spoiled me and I am so lucky for all of the goodies he got me and for him being in my life.  It was a perfect evening.  I also was very happy the way the craft paper and ribbons turned out.  I have some more wrapping to do tonight so I don't have to do too much last minute.


Sunday I had brunch with the bf, his brother, SIL and their adorable baby.  I couldn't resist ordering shrimp and grits and partaking in the restaurant's bloody mary bar.


How was your weekend?  Ready for Christmas?

Friday, December 16, 2011

Happy Friday Video


Although the Mariah version will of course of course of course be a major classic forever, I have to admit I do love this video and the addition of the Biebs.  I'm hoping this video on repeat will help me plow through a ton of work today!  What're your fun weekend plans?  And what should I add to my Michael Buble/Justin Bieber/Mariah/classicChristmas musicals holiday playlist?