there'd be days like this

Apologies all around for being MIA. I received news from home that my grandmother had suffered a stroke earlier this week, and everything's just kind of stopped as I try to process it all. She's the best person I know, bar none, and the thought of her going through this right now while I'm so far away and can't be there is heartbreaking. I feel like there are too many emotions churning inside me, and I'm just trying to keep them all contained until we get more news about future plans for therapy and recuperation. On the plus side, she's going home today, and I know my aunts and uncles and cousins will take such good care of her. 

I hope I haven't made you too sad; it is Friday after all. This weekend, hug your family members a little harder; make them feel your love a little bit more. It matters.

Have a love-filled weekend.

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this weekend

It's Friday once again, and I'm totally ready for it. This weekend will be full of cleaning, dumping, and packing. We're moving in less than two weeks, and we are nowhere near packed. We keep saying we'll do it every night after work little by little...yeah, that didn't work. We'll probably actually stick to our guns and buckle down all next week after getting a much needed jump start this weekend.

When I'm not packing, I'll also be putting on the last touches on the move of this blog to WordPress. I've been wanting a more streamlined look for awhile and finally took the plunge to see what I could find over at WordPress. I've settled on a theme that I think is perfect, and I'm working on finishing up some posts. Sometime around the new year, I hope to customize the new theme fully and make it more my own, but for now, it's quite lovely as it is. I'm so excited, and I hope you'll come over and see the new digs.

I've also gotten back into the swing of wedding planning. It was kind of overwhelming at the beginning thinking about everything that comes with planning a wedding, to the point where it stressed me out and I stopped thinking about it for awhile. But then James and I had a talk, and we decided that we wanted our wedding to be a fun affair, with great friends and family, great food, and beverages aplenty. We want it to be a party where everyone was happy along with us. So we've decided on an indoor backyard wedding of sorts. I want a simple dress and great shoes, with my hair down and flowing, like it would be at a summer backyard BBQ, just a little more elegant and romantic. Last night, we stayed up late and picked songs for the wedding, including curating a list that will make up the mixed "tape" that will be our favor for our guests. We sat there on the couch side by side and listened to our relationship in song. Definitely one of those moments I'll remember forever. 

I hope you have a fantastic weekend.

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this weekend

Happy Friday, everybody! What are you up to this weekend?

On Saturday, I'm helping my sister finish shopping for college, and then James and I will be heading out to a friend's surprise birthday party on the North Side. More packing is to be done on Sunday, but we're taking a little break on Saturday for some fun with family and friends. In addition to artwork, I'm in search of a vanity with a fold-down mirror that can double as a little laptop table in our bedroom, as well as a little bookshelf and a slipper chair. For the living room, we're also trying to find a set of four chairs for the dining room. I have some things in mind, and I'll share when I've narrowed them down to a more manageable two or three options (as opposed to the 578 options I'm currently considering). 

Have a great weekend!

P.S. The inner nerd and biologist in me cheered when I saw this doodle. Rosalind Franklin was a pioneer in her field, both for her amazing contributions and the fact that she was a woman in a field that was overwhelmingly dominated by men. She died too young, but her contributions are timeless and far-reaching. 

good things

Happy Friday, everybody!

On my way into work, I made a particularly tight right turn. Just as I thought I was coming out of the turn free and clear, I hit the back fender of the pickup truck that was parked in the tow zone (which was why that right turn was so hard). As I parked a couple feet down from the truck, I started giving myself a lecture about how stupid it was to think I could make it, why didn't I just wait, why didn't I just go around to find another spot, etc., etc. The man who owned the vehicle asked for my information, so I started to open my glove compartment to find my insurance card and registration. Then suddenly, the man came up to me and said, "You know what, sweetheart? I'm not going to report it. I'm not worried about a little scratch on my back guard. You just be careful." And just like that, he got in his vehicle and drove away. 

I just sat in my passenger seat, my insurance card still in hand, and just sat there for a second. It was a small scratch, the body of the truck wasn't hurt, just the plastic guard practically designed for mishaps like mine, but that man didn't have to not report it. He didn't have to give me a pass, he didn't have to be gracious. Just when you think that everyone's out there for him/herself, people do things - like forgive you for hitting their car - that remind you to be a little less cynical and a little bit more amazed at how good things - no matter how big or small - are good things, and that they happen, if not all the time, more often than we think.

Wishing you all a weekend full of good things, big or small.

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this weekend

It's Friday! The promise of another weekend is so close! While browsing through pinterest, I found this picture, and I just started smiling. Now I want to dress up and buy fresh flowers and go biking all weekend. I'm off to see my best friend to night for one last hurrah before she heads off to San Antonio to start her married life. I'm going to be a blubbering mess because I'll miss her so much, but that's life, right? The only constant is change. I'll drink to her tonight, then go bike riding on the lake tomorrow. I recently also started watching The Newsroom and now I'm hooked, so Sunday will be lazy and full of Aaron Sorkin...and laundry, if I'm being good.

I hope you have a good one!

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this weekend (wedding frenzy)

here 


Happy weekend, everybody! Things have been crazy around here...everything except my best friend's wedding has fallen to the wayside...my apartment, my laundry, this blog... James has been great tolerating the general chaos of our lives, but both of us can't wait until Sunday when all this wedding frenzy dies. We're excited to see our friends start a new chapter in their lives, of course, but it will be nice when things get back to normal. 

Have a great weekend!

this weekend

here


TGIF! I'm off to a second bridesmaid dress fitting after work today, then I'm driving to my parents' to help them prep for my sister's graduation party tomorrow. I'm making my world famous spaghetti... ;). The bachelorette party for my friend's wedding is also tomorrow evening. I foresee lots of...everything. We'll see how I'm feeling on Sunday. ;). 

Some things to check out this weekend:

My latest Zara obsession. Blue, red, or black?

Pssst!..if you're in need of a new swimsuit (like me), J.Crew has 30% off all swim, no code needed.

For anyone who's ever had a love/hate relationship with bras (aka, almost every woman, including this one). 

A retired pope's shoes. 

I saw these, and I was transported back to my scrunchy-wearing 90s childhood. 

Enjoy the weekend! 

this weekend

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This weekend is jam-packed. I'll be going to my friend's wedding dress fitting and a staff BBQ on Saturday while trying to catch the Blackhawks game on the radio. Playoff hockey is the best. James has been wanting to go see Star Trek so we'll probably catch the movie later that evening after the BBQ.  Sunday should be more relaxed - church and then more hockey. I'll be doing groceries and getting my bridesmaid's dress altered today - it came swimmingly huge on me so cross fingers my tailor will be able to work his magic.

What are your weekend plans?

this weekend

Happy Friday! It's supposed to be warm this weekend, so I'm going to bask in the sunshine for a weekend that's wonderfully almost plan-free. 

Some things to check out this weekend:

the incomparable Julianne Moore.

obsessed with these. shoe-inspired nail polish? sold.

my new-to-me favorite (food) blog.

the next time I'm feeling down and out about what I've done (or not done) with my life, I'll remember this.

I've been itching to reorganize my necklaces, and after seeing these on Cupcakes and Cashmere, I may have found a solution.

Have a fantastic and fun weekend!

image via T Magazine, The New York Times

this weekend

What I would give to be in that room right now... ;). Since a vacation is out of the question, I'll just have to make do with some coffee and a good book instead.

Some things to check out this weekend:

I'm dying to do this DIY. 

My inner grammar nazi cheered when I read this.

This looks sooo good. Must make asap.

On Saint Laurent Paris and Mr. Slimane.  

Keep standing with Boston. Call your loved ones who are over there, if you have any, and if you can, donate. Every little bit helps.

 

I'd be remiss to not say this in light of recent events (but really, this should be something we do every day): let's all hug our loved ones a little tighter, say 'I love you' a little more often, forgive a little quicker, and be a little bit more thankful for all we're blessed with. Life can change in an instant.

Have a safe and lovely weekend.

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this weekend

Yes for Friday! I have plans for a busy weekend : a college visit with my sister, then watching her last Show Choir performance; some time with my guy; books to read; and, my taxes (drat!). I swear I hadn't meant to put them off this long, but here I am. Luckily, my taxes are pretty straight forward. Nevertheless, I'll be thinking of the image above (and the peace and calm it captures) as I plow through the forms. Good thing it's only once a year!

Some things to check out:

one. Salad in a jar is a new to me revelation, as is Cassie's blog, back to her roots. Serious LOVE.

two. An interesting read about political and marital second chances.

three. An app that has made getting back in shape and watching what I eat super easy.

four. Try out this sure-fire keeper of a recipe from DALS. It's on the menu for Monday at my house!

five. My bedroom now smells like this candle. Super pricey, but the scent is amazing. As is their Chicago store - the light fixture and overall design are just beautiful. 


Have an amazing weekend!


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this weekend

My new bag. It's like a ray of sunshine - I can't help but smile every time I see it, which is a really good reason to get a bag, don't you think? ;).

TGIF! Spring has started to show itself around here in Chicago, and I'm taking the change in season as a catalyst to get out more, starting this weekend. James and I are heading up to the Map Room (our favorite bar) this evening to catch up with some work friends, and then tomorrow, we'll be doing some walking up by Lincoln Park/Wicker Park to enjoy the 65 degree day. There's a chance of rain later in the day, but I'm crossing my fingers that it never comes. 

Instead of calling your attention to amazing things indoors and accessible through your computer screen, try these things instead this weekend:

one: Go for a walk. Anywhere. For any amount of time. It's not only healthy for you, but it's also a great way to soak in some sun now that it's starting to peek out. I walked to work this morning (1.3 miles), and it felt good to walk through my neighborhood as everything's waking up. If mornings are not your thing, do it in the middle of the day as a way to walk away from the desk for a little bit or at night as a post-dinner walkabout.

two: Go to a park. People watch. Pack a picnic. Bring a book. Bring a blanket, your iPad, and start catching up on the shows you missed during the week.

three: Go to a museum. See that exhibit you've been putting off.

four: Go out for brunch. Take a leisurely stroll to get there and then indulge in good food. 

five: Explore a new neighborhood you haven't seen before or haven't visited in awhile. Find new haunts to add to your current favorites.

Have a great weekend!

this weekend

This Sunday is Easter, so I'm looking forward to a great Sunday with my family. Here's to resurrection in all forms (you, too, Spring!).

Here's what I'm checking out this weekend:

Watchathon Week is currently going on for Comcast cable customers, so I'm taking this opportunity to have a Girls marathon. I've heard/seen/read so many reactions (including the Man Repeller's) to it that I'd like to see what it's really all about. In the meantime, want to give me your take?

I've been on a necklace kick lately, and I've now turned my eyes to this one. 

I've been on a white sneakers kick for years now, and you can't go wrong with the classic.

Everyone needs a yellow polka dot bikini (it's sexy and adorable).

Like I said, I can't wait to visit Brazil, and this article has me intrigued about Sao Paulo.

 

To those who celebrate, have a blessed and happy Easter! 
Have a great weekend, everybody.

this weekend

This weekend will be a great chance to unwind and relax. I haven't been sleeping well as of late, and I generally feel sluggish and just slow. I blame it on spring taking its sweet time to actually arrive. Nevertheless, I'm going to will myself to get going. I'll be helping my sister pick out a prom dress this weekend, so keep an eye out for pictures next week. She'll be graduating this year and is in the process of picking out a college. We're six years apart, so this really makes me feel old. 

Whatever you're up to this weekend, I hope you have a fantastic time. 

Some things to check out:

There's been so much talk - good and bad - about this book. I'd like to read it to see what I think.

He's definitely bringing sexy back. 

Speaking of sexy,  let's talk about the state of the word whom. (This isn't sarcasm. I think proper grammar is sexy, as is someone who knows how to use whom properly. :) )

Madewell's having a 25% off of $125+ sale. If I were buying, I'm eyeing this, this, and this.

And speaking of sales, Madewell's cousin, J. Crew, is having one, too. I'd pick this and this.

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this weekend

Bangui at dusk

I've been feeling all kinds of homesickness lately, so this weekend will mostly be spent finally taking the time to catalog pictures from my trip back home over 2 years ago (!). I can't wait to share snapshots of my favorite place on earth filled with my favorite people. Stay tuned next week!

Some things worth checking out this weekend:

Habemus Papam!

The modern, well-dressed man.

Picasso & Chicago.

A hot-white structured bag.

I heart everything in this post, especially the water bottle and the funky sunnies.

Have a fantastic weekend!

this weekend

I apologize for the radio silence around here lately. James and I decided to take his unemployment in stride and take the time to spend more time together while we can. He's been coming with me to work (so thankful to be able to do that) and sending out endless resumes and cover letters while I work. 

Now that the snow earlier this week (see above) has come and gone, we're going to take some time to walk around the city in semi-warm weather this weekend, probably around Wicker Park/Lincoln Park. I have to admit, this whole let's walk around and see what we find thing isn't really my cup of tea - I'm an incessant, unapologetic planner. But, it will do us both good to just relax and let things be, so I'm game.

Here are some things to check out this weekend:

Can't stop singing this.

Intrigued to try out these and these. Would you recommend?

Really want to make this.

Want this.

Dreaming of this.

Touched by this.

Have a lovely weekend.

this weekend

James and I are planning to go to the Philippines this April. My hometown of Bangui, Ilocos Norte is so beautiful (the picture is of the beach about a 10-minute walk away from our house). I haven't been back home in over two years, and this time, I'll be going with James. I'm so excited for my family to meet him. Here's to his passport coming soon so we can buy tickets!

This weekend, I'm going to be thinking about home, and all the things I love about it:

mangoes

soda in a bag

Jollibee

barbecue (and street food in general)

Here's to good memories, old and new.

Have a great weekend!

images via 1 2 3 4 5

this weekend

here


Happy Friday!

I'm so glad the weekend is here. Aside from getting some car maintenance work done and grabbing some groceries, I'm looking forward to just sitting at home, cuddling up on the sofa with some coffee and a good book, and just not doing anything. It really is a luxury.

Here are some interesting reads to check out:

How sushi became a worldwide phenomenon (my current read) 

A memoir from a fashion icon

About belonging as a teenager (one of my favorites, as a teen and since I've stopped being one)

For a little history and insight into a legendary president

On the woman who posthumously contributed to scientific advancement

An accessible yet not watered down theological read


Have a wonderful weekend!

this weekend

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James and I are dining at Girl & the Goat this Friday for our Valentine's Day dinner. I know Valentine's Day isn't until next week, but we've learned that food is never good on any big day/night (think New Year's Eve, Mother's Day, Father's Day, etc.) and eat out the week before or after (or stay in and cook our own delicious meal!). James will be away on business until 7 p.m. on the 14th this year anyway. I'll let you know how it goes, but I've heard so many good things from so many friends, and I'm so excited!

Aside from our night out on Friday, we'll probably keep it pretty low key the rest of the weekend. We're really trying to take the opportunity to stay in, enjoy each other's time and company and the things we're lucky enough to be able to enjoy at home.

Here are some things to see/check out this weekend:

If you did love Beyonce's half time show and wanted more, tickets for her upcoming world tour are now available for LiveNation app users (all tickets available on Monday).

Read about the Emanuel Brothers: Ezekiel, Rahm, and Ari.

Channel your inner baker and make these awesome Nutella treats (and stay awhile at A Cup of Jo ...you'll be hooked!).

Go see Silver Linings Playbook to see how romantic comedies are done.

 Have you ever wondered what your signature says about you? Find out here.

Have a good weekend!

this weekend

here


I love football, so I will most definitely be tuning in to the Super Bowl on Sunday night.

Whether you can't wait for the big day or can't wait for it to be over, here are some things to do/check out this weekend.

 

Find out why President Obama is not pleased.

Football treats to make and eat.

Late to Downton Abbey? Check out Maggie Smith's Lady Grantham.

Need a new lipstick? Ends on Saturday: 20% off at Ulta.

Say goodbye to Liz Lemon as Tina Fey signs off.

Lust after Dannijo's newest baubles. 

Preview and earmark the Prabal Gurung for Target lookbook. The collection will be available in stores and online February 10.

Read about the man behind Tod's. 



Have a lovely weekend!