Current Favorites: Summer Reading List

Ok, I know it's a little early to share my summer reading list. However there are so many books I'm dying to read that I decided to get started now to give myself a little more time. What are you currently reading?

Highlights From 2014

It's hard to believe 2014 is quickly coming to a close. I thought it would be fun to highlight a few of my favorite moments from this past year and reflect on what I've learned. Stay tuned for some exciting goals and projects in 2015!

1. New Friends
I'm so extremely thankful for the blogging community in Chicago (Windy City Blogger Collective) and the friendships I've made this year. The inspiration and support from new friends are priceless and something I truly cherish.

2. Spending time with family in Northern Michigan
My family's tradition to spend a week in Northern Michigan is the perfect escape from the "real world"and a chance to focus on connecting with nature and each other. An afternoon reading a book on the dock, wine tasting at Shady Lane Cellars and kayaking down the Crystal River are just a few of my favorite things.

3. Meeting Rachel Zoe
As someone who absolutely adores fashion, meeting Rachel Zoe was bananas. I'm obsessed with Rachel's style, and if you're in Chicago make an appointment for a fabulous blowout at her salon DreamDry.

4. Trying New Things
I'm still working on my 101 in 1001 list and constantly challenging myself to try new things. This year I tried a calligraphy class, a new fitness class, hosted a blogger event, took a cooking class, took a golf lesson, and saw a show at Second City. I'm excited to continue crossing off some goals in 2015.

5. Learning to Let Go

This year taught me to let go of the narrative I set for my life and embrace something totally new. I'm allowing myself to let go this year and focus on telling a new story. 

"I hope that, at the end of this year, you realize how the hard times made you. I hope for you that you allowed those times to make you better. I would bet that you're better." 

Hayley Williams

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Little Black Blog

I'm so excited to feature Katie behind the blog Little Black Blog today. You can find affordable, classic and trendy fashion ideas on LBB as well as helpful style advice. Don't miss out on LBB for some serious style motivation!

Get to know Katie:

1. What are you currently reading? 

With work and constantly try to keep up with blogging, it can be hard to finish a book from cover to cover. But, I am currently reading Ellen DeGeneres' book, "Seriously...I'm Kidding." It's a great book to pick up for daily laughs and a quick read.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant? 

I'm a dessert before dinner kind of girl. 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging? 

I love how supportive the blogging world is (at least in Chicago). It's been so fun to meet many amazing bloggers and hear their story. It never makes for a dull moment.

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. A new planner and some stationary for 2015: Will definitely be scouring Paper Source for that! 
2. A membership for ClassPass: I did a trial now, I just need to take the plunge!
3. Vacation: One of my best friend who lives in Orange County, California and I would love to plan a trip out there to the beach or San Francisco.
4. To have a happy, healthy and successful 2015. A fresh start couldn't come at a better time!
5. I'm a big Benefit Cosmetics fan and really need to up my beauty game! Looking to make some fun purchases :)

5. Favorite quote? 

I recently heard the wonderful DVF say (if you can't tell, I'm a big reality TV girl), "We all do the same things, but what makes us different is how we do it." It's important to stay true to yourself and do what you love to do. How you achieve your goals will be what sets you apart.

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Sassy Moms in the City

I recently met Alison from Sassy Moms in the City at a Chicago event and I've become a loyal reader of her blog. Sassy Moms in the City helps sophisticated women maintain their style AFTER baby, but even though I'm not a mom I love her helpful tips, delicious recipes and beauty tricks. With Alison's experience in event planning and marketing she also launched SoChic Media in 2012 to serve a broader audience. Follow Sassy Moms in the City for sophisticated style, beauty and fashion tips!

Get to know Alison:

1. What are you currently reading? 

Does reading to my kid’s at night count?? Luckily I just received two amazing books I can’t wait to dive into over the holidays – Unselling by Alison Kramer & Scott Stratten and Think Like a SheEO by Vicki Saunders. My reading goal for 2015 is to immerse myself into all things that will take my business to the next level.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant? 

I dream about the Brussel Sprout Salad at Sunda and try desperately to recreate at home. It’s all about flash frying the brussel sprouts and that sauce. It’s heavenly! 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging? 

Having a flexible schedule -I work when and where I want. I pick up my daughters from school every day and I wouldn’t change this for anything. The second best thing are the amazing relationships created over the past 5 years. There are so many people I may have never met if it weren’t for blogging. I am truly blessed to have these friends in my life. 

4. Five things on your wish list? 

Oh my – just 5?? 

1. These Sorel booties need to be on my feet before snow hits the ground! 
2. More hours in the day – can someone clone me?
3. More date nights with my husband. 
4. Brussel Sprout Salad from Sunda! I told ya – it's really, really good.
5. A trip to anywhere warm between January and March. Chicago winters are starting to wear me down!! 
6. BONUS: A year’s supply to ClassPass. Have you tried this yet? So addicting! 

5. Favorite quote? 

"When you know better, do better." - Maya Angelou. It sounds a little cliche but it's such a great way to live life. We all make mistakes along the way, it's all about learning and making changes.

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Glitterary

I'm so excited to introduce Stephanie from Glitterary today. Glitterary is an inspirational and informative fashion blog that I read daily for Steph's amazing style tips that incorporate some of the hottest trends in a practical way. Bookmark Glitterary for some fabulous fashion inspiration!

Get to know Stephanie:

1. What are you currently reading? 

Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg, I'm a sucker for books by intelligent confident women, and this one is full of practical advice you can apply today! While I'm not a heavy reader, prior to this I was reading Tina Fey's Bossypants, and next up is Amy Poehler's latest, Yes, Please!

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant? 

Barefoot Contessa's Panzanella, it's light, relatively healthy, and full of flavor! That and wine– wine is always a good addition.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging? 

I find blogging to be a creative outlet, a freespace where you make your own rules. Anything goes in this arena, and that kind of freedom is liberating! 

4. Five things on your wish list? 

1. More travel- I'll go anywhere for the sake of adventure, but Greece and Patagonia are definitely at the top of the list! 
2. More coffee table books (or other non-digital sources of inspiration). 
3. A new signature perfume. 
4. These Aviators in all black. 
5. And finally, the major "wish-list" item, a necklace by DylanLex... a girl can dream.

5. Favorite quote? 

"You should always be learning. If you're the smartest person in the room, you're in the wrong place." - Erika Bearman @OscarPRGirl

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Sparkles & Sprinkles

You can't go wrong with sparkles or sprinkles so you're going to love the blog Sparkles & Sprinkles. Megan started Sparkles & Sprinkles as a creative outlet to inspire young women to share their own personal sparkle in today's world (I love this). If you're looking for some fun events in Chicago, delicious recipes or everyday advice about growing up, start following Sparkles & Sprinkles.

Get to know Megan:

1. What are you currently reading?

I recently finished "#GIRLBOSS", one of the best books I’ve ever read, and started “The Best Advice I Ever Got” by Katie Couric. I love reading books about women empowerment and success stories. I find it fascinating hearing where people started and how they got to where they are today.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?

This is a tough one, because I’m not a picky eater and I don’t usually go to the same restaurant twice since there are so many great ones here in Chicago. However, if I had to pick one I would have to say brunch at The BongoRoom. It has everything you could ever dream of for brunch and no matter what your order, you can’t go wrong.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

It’s a great way to meet people with similar interests and support each other. The blogging community is such a fun and creative one to be a part of, where everyone encourages each other to succeed.

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. I'm a big planner person and love this Emily Ley Planner
2. Thanks to you, I learned I need blogger business cards so this Kate Spade business card holder has been on my "to buy" list
3. I wear a watch almost every day and I love this Michael Kors Parker watch
4. Scary to say it's almost winter so I've been eyeing these bright coral Hunter Boots
5. I've become a bag lady on the train going from the gym to work to events so I found this perfect Lululemon bag to get me through the whole day/night

5. Favorite quote?

“Throw kindness around like confetti.” In the blogging community and in everyday life, it’s so important to be kind to everyone you meet. You never know how someone can play an important role in a future opportunity for you. Kindness can go a long way, just a smile can mean the world to someone else.

Thank you to everyone who entered the PrettyQuick giveaway last week! The winner of the $50 beauty credit is Hollie from Fancykins. Congrats!

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: 2 Girls In 2 Cities

I'm excited to feature Amanda and Jennie from 2 Girls in 2 Cities today! Amanda and Jennie lived together at the University of Dayton, and after graduation started their blog 2 Girls in 2 Cities as a way to keep in touch (such a great idea). With a shared interest in clothes, cooking, DIY projects and more you'll love keeping up with these girls.

Get to know Amanda and Jennie:

1. What are you currently reading?

A: "The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life andBusiness." I'm not very far yet, but so far it's a really interesting look at habits - how they are formed, changed, and examples of how using knowledge of habits has influenced things like marketing campaigns and SuperBowl wins. 

J: "The Fault In Our Stars." Sarah let me borrow this book. I'm about halfway through the story and am still on the fence if I like it or not, but definitely want to finish the book to then see the movie. 

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?

A: My mom's Chex Mix! I had to beg to get her secret recipe once I became an "adult," and I look forward to making it as soon as the weather turns cool each year. 

J: I love all things Crock-Pot, and am guessing I'll be doing a lot of cooking in mine this winter. I love it for unexpected recipes too, such as this slow cooker apple crisp I tried first last year. 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

A: Getting to do it with Jennie! It's been a fun way to keep in touch, and it's been really great having someone to toss ideas around with - both blog and purchase related- and seeing how both of our styles have grown over the past 2.5 years. 

J: Definitely keeping my friendship going with Amanda, and as well as creating more friendships! Thanks to Amanda and other women I met in the blogger community, I always feel like I have someone to ask about as simple as "Should I buy this dress?" or for advice on bigger things. 

4. Five things on your wish list?

A:

1. Those fancy gripper toe socks everyone has in barre classes
2. A little black bag perfect for weekends (the Rebecca Minkoff Quilted Affair bag?)
3. L.L. Bean boots for the winter
4. The Kate Spade Taurus charm bracelet
5. A nice, leather duffel bag that meets airline carry-on measurements

J:

1. A black side sling purse for jaunts around the city
2. An ear cuff
3. A pair of "shorties" 
4. A fedora that Amanda always makes look so good
5. A trip to see my parents' new house in Florida

5. Favorite quote?

A: "I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls." (Audrey Hepburn). It's always a great reminder for me to do something that makes me happy every day - especially on the bad days. 

J: "Things happen that you never expect." My mom said this to me when I was exiting the car in a bad mood one day in high school, and I try to keep it in mind whenever it feels like things aren't going my way. Because maybe it's just the way it's supposed to go. 

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Hallways Are My Runways

Today I'm excited to introduce Peggy from Hallways Are My Runways! Peggy is a middle school Reading Specialist who launched Hallways Are My Runways in 2012 to showcase her unique style and eclectic style, fashion and photography. I love how she mixes high and low brands into her outfits and stellar fashion tips. Check out Hallways Are My Runways for some fun style inspiration!

Get to know Peggy:

1. What are you currently reading?
I'm constantly reading at least three to five books between teaching (6-8 Reading) and for myself. I'm currently reading Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) by Mindy Kaling. She's one of my favorite comedians and she is hilarious. And for school I read Stargirl - such a great message of individuality and reread The Giver which coincides with the seventh grade curriculum and one of my favorite books as well. 

2. Favorit recipe or restaurant?

One of my favorite restaurants is Big Star. It's close to my place and I could basically eat tacos everyday.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

My favorite thing about blogging is having a space where I can express myself and share a bit of myself with others. I have also met a lot of other bloggers and have build great friendships.

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. My family and friends to be happy and healthy.
2. A trip to Melbourne to visit my younger sister and to meet my niece (debuting in November).
3. Artwork for my gallery wall - I'm still decorating my apartment.
4. A long and warm winter coat - I can't handle cold weather.
5. A structued handbag for all my schoolwork. 

5. Favorite quote?

I've always said this quote ever since I was little, "You have to look good, to feel good, to do good." Being the best person you can be and doing good things for others is what's it's all about.

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: The F Bombs

For everything fabulous, foxy and fun you need to read Brittany's blog The F Bombs.  The F Bombs is named after some of Brittany's favorite things including fashion, food and football (she's a huge Green Bay Packers fan). I love Brittany's sense of style, makeup tips and fun recommendations around Chicago!

Get to know Brittany:

1. What are you currently reading?

I know I'm late to the party, but I'm currently reading "#GIRLBOSS."  I am absolutely inspired by this book. 

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant? 

I'm not the best chef in the world (Just ask my fiance!) so my favorite recipe is a super simple Grasshopper (this post I did WAY in the begginging of blogging and it's not really great but the recipe is still amazing!!). My favorite restaurant is a place my fiance and I just went for the first time last night and I haven't been able to write a post about it yet but it's called Coalfire and the pizza is INCREDIBLE!!  I highly recommend it if you are in the West Loop/Fulton Market area! 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging? 

Oh goodness! There are so many things but I think my FAVORITE thing is the people you meet.  The blogger community in Chicago is so welcoming and wonderful and I really value the relationships I have made while blogging.  Chicago is the perfect city to blog in, if you ask me. :) 

4. Five things on your wish list? 

Five things?! Only five?! Haha! OK here we go: 

1. Any blanket scarf out there
2. Leather leggings (I have leather pants but I reallllly would love leggings as well) 
3. GiGi New York Uber Clutch in Orange Pebble Grain
4. Clare V Foldover Clutch in Leopard
5. THE studded Valentino pumps (I mean, what girls doesn't want those, right?!

5. Favorite quote? 

"Eventually all the pieces fall into place. Until then, laugh at the confusion, live for the moment, and know that everything happens for a reason." Because even though it sounds so cheesy, everything does happen for a reason and your life works out exactly how it's supposed to be. :) 

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Red Soles & Red Wine

I'm thrilled to feature Jen from Red Soles & Red Wine and t+j Designs today! Jen has a great sense of style, and I love reading her styling tips and browsing her fabulous outfits on Red Soles & Red Wine. Jen is also a jewelry designer for t+j Designs (I'm loving their new tops and skirts) with her sister Tiffany and bloggers behind Tiff + Jen where they cover tidbits about the business as well as their lives as entrepreneurs.

Get to know Jen:

1. What are you currently reading?  

I just finished #GirlBoss by Sophia Amoruso, lately my time to sit down and read has been limited but I loved reading about her passion and thought process behind Nasty Gal.  

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?  

In Chicago, my two favorites are GT Fish and Oyster and Nico Osteria. 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?  

My favorite thing about blogging are the friendships and people I've met.  I moved here three years ago only knowing a handful of people and now I feel like a have a wonderful group of girlfriends that love fashion, blogging and going out as much as I do!  Blogging has allowed me to meet so many interesting and fabulous people and I've also had so much fun doing so.

4. Five things on your wish list?  

1. For my family to be healthy and happy always
2. To travel more
3. To have another successful holiday season for my company t+j Designs
4. For my shopping wish list - the perfect tall flat boot (as I typically wear heels and realized I need some walking shoes for the winter)
5. A wool cape for the winter

5. Favorite quote?  

"Your Dream Job Does Not Exist, You Must Create It" I don't remember where I saw this quote but I love it and gave my perspective on it in a blog post here. 

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Fancy Nanc-ista

I recently met Nancy at 52Eighty a couple weeks ago and instantly feel in love with her fashion blog Fancy Nanc-ista. Nancy started her blog last summer as an outlet to share her favorite styles and trends for any occasion. Check out Fancy Nanc-ista for inspiration on how to mix unique pieces in your wardrobe for a stylish look!

Get to know Nancy:

1. What are you currently reading?

I am currently not reading anything at the moment; however I want to start reading the Hunger Games books sometime. I loved the movies, but I have heard good things about the books!   

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?

I love Asian food, and my most favorite restaurant is Jellyfish on Rush.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

There are many things I love about blogging. I love that I have an opportunity to meet other fabulous bloggers, and of course being able to publicly share my fashion thoughts and looks of the day to everyone!

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. Balenciaga Zip Satchel Bag in blue
2. Nikky Boot by Schutz Shoes (Love these!)
3. iPad 
4. DSLR Camera
5. Saint Laurent Carryall Bag in pink 

5. Favorite quote? 

"Don't wait for the world to recognize your greatness, live it and let the world catch up to you."

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Sed Bona

After being Instagram friends with Ashley (mushroomstew) I was so delighted to finally meet her last week and learn more about her recently launched blog Sed Bona (the Latin phrase meaning 'quality over quantity'). Sed Bona features Ashely's incredible photography, adventures throughout Chicago and some fun tips and tricks. Follow along with Ashley via Instagram and Sed Bona!

Get to know Ashley:

1. What are you currently reading?

I'm currently re-reading Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier - one of my very favorites. I love the fact that you never learn the main character's name, especially considering how prominent the name Rebecca is in the novel.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?

Shiso for sushi in Old Town. They have some really incredible and unique rolls and high quality sashimi!

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

My favorite thing about blogging is all the new experiences and people it has brought into my life. I'm still new to blogging, having only launched Sed Bona in July but I've been lucky to work with some amazing trendsetters here in Chicago and some amazing restaurants already. I love having such a rich community of artists here in Chicago to inspire me to push myself forward. 

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. Mansur Gavriel Bucket Bag
2. Jo Malone Wood Sage and Sea Salt Candle
3. Prada Saffiano Leather Tote (in either red or blue)
4. Burberry Cashmere Trench
5. Espa Energizing Body Oil

5. Favorite Quote?

"Just say yes and figure it all out later" - Tina Fey

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Short is the New Black

For some fashion and beauty inspiration Short is the New Black is a daily must read. Justine has quite an eye for fashion and I love following her adventures throughout Chicago. Check out Short is the New Black to find a hip restaurant in Chicago or a new lipstick to add to your collection.

Get to know Justine:

1. What are you currently reading? 

Well, I've joined my first book club, the Boozy Book Club! We are reading Brain of Fire for September-October. "An award-winning memoir and instant New York Times bestseller that goes far beyond its riveting medical mystery, Brain on Fire is the powerful account of one woman’s struggle to recapture her identity." I have a feeling it's going to be a good one!

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant? 

I'm always searching for new restaurants in the city.....one of the many reasons why I love living in Chicago! Right now I have two favorites both located in the West Loop: Maude's Liquor Bar & La Sirena Clandestina. My favorite recipe has got to be this "easy chicken fried rice" - it takes the healthy route to one of my favorite (and basic) Chinese food dishes!

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging? 

There are so many things I love about blogging but I think my favorite is the amazing people you meet along the way. Stephanie was my first blogging friend and over a year later, I consider her one of my best friends.

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. This Celine Handbag
2. My next David Yurman Ring
3. Everything from Evelyn Henson's Etsy Shop
4. I'm loving these new NARS Audacious Lipsticks
5. Any candle I can get my hands on!

5. Favorite quote? 

This is a hard one, have you seen my 'Words to Live By' Pinterest board? I think my favorite that really hits home is "when you love what you have, you have everything you need."

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Wear and Why

Today I'm excited to feature Nika from Wear and Why! Nika has an amazing sense of style and she features her two favorite things - Chicago & Fashion on her blog Wear and Why. Check out her blog for some great style inspiration!

 

Get to know Nika:

1. What are you currently reading?
Super nerdy but the last book in the Game of Thrones series - fell in love with the show and had to pick up the books! Last book right before Game of Thrones: Where'd You Go, Bernadette? - I recommend this book to EVERYONE!  

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?
Right now? by far, Nico Osteria - any of Paul Kahan's restaurants, really!

Favorite recipe: my boyfriend's (Greg - thewatcherchicago.com) Green monster breakfast smoothie.... the best! 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

Having the opportunity to write! Best creative outlet and avenue for stress relief. 

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. Céline Trio cross body bag
2. Anya Hindmarch - Travel Folio
3. Reiko Kaneko Lip Tease Mug
4. Gianvito Rossi, Ladder-Strap Mary Jane Pumps
5. A Reformation Dress...I wish I was tall enough!!!! 

5. Favorite Quote?

"You can never be overdressed or overeducated." - Oscar Wilde

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: A Squared

I'm excited to introduce you to Anne from A Squared today! A Squared is one of my go-to food blogs for delicious recipes and amazing reviews on the hottest restaurants in Chicago. If you're looking for a new recipe or a great restaurant to check out stop by A Squared!

Get to know Anne:

1. What are you currently reading? 

I have just cracked open The Last Letter From Your Lover by Jojo Moyes. I couldn't put her book Me Before You down, so I am really excited about this one too!

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant? 

My favorite recipe is one for Chicken Divan-- it's an old school casserole that my mom made all the time when I was a kid and I have always loved it. I redid the recipe to incorporate real/healthier ingredients and the flavor is even better. It also makes a great Broccoli Divan if you leave out the chicken and double the broccoli!

A favorite restaurant in Chicago is so hard to choose and I definitely go through phases of which ones I like best. Italian food has my heart though and a dinner at Balena is still one of the best I have ever had.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging? 

So many things! I love meeting other bloggers because they are such a fun and interesting group of (mostly) ladies. And having a creative outlet and a place to connect with brands I love and people that love food is just amazing.

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. A spiralizer. I'm seeing spiralized veggie recipes on food blogs everywhere and I am dying to get one!
2. Jack Rogers Navajo sandals. I've been toying with buying a pair for 2 summers now.
3. A statement light fixture for my bedroom. We finally bought a condo and I am totally wrapped up in designing it.
4. A Vitamix. It's such a cliche food blogger thing to want... but I still do.
5. A Golden Retriever puppy. No joke. We've been talking about getting a puppy forever and now that we own a place, I think it's time.

5. Favorite quote? 

“It's a funny thing about life. If you refuse to settle for anything less than the best, that's what it will give you." — W. Somerset Maugham

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Chritiques

I'm always on the hunt for new food blogs and when I came across Chritiques I was hooked on Christina's restaurant reviews in Chicago. Chritiques is a compilation of unbiased restaurant reviews, food products and fun events. If you're looking for a great new restaurant or a food product for your kitchen check out Chritiques!

Get to know Christina:

1. What are you currently reading?
I'm always reading Eater Chicago for the full run-down of what is happening in the Chicago food scene. I'm also a sucker for brainless consumption of pop culture, so I need my fill of US Weekly every week. 

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?
I don't cook as often as I'd like, so usually when I eat at home it is a simple salad, eggs, or avocado toast (yum!). Picking a favorite restaurant is difficult for me, because it depends upon my mood, what I'm craving, and who I'm going with. That being said I'm loving Tanta, Japonais by Morimoto, and Fig & Olive right now, and Le Colonial is a perennial favorite.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?
Constantly learning something new and creating new friendships in the process!

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. New bedroom and dining room furniture. My husband and I just moved and I'd love to find some new pieces that fit the theme of our new home. I'm loving everything at Mitchell Gold and am open to hearing more suggestions!
2. A vacation. Charleston, Vancouver, and Australia are all on my list
3. A fun cocktail ring
4. An amazing pair of nude-colored Christian Louboutin heels that are versatile, stylish and sexy
5. Long, healthy, and happy lives for all my friends and family!

5. Favorite quote?
"Keep away from the people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the Really Great make you feel that you, too, can become great." - Mark Twain

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Adrian James

I'm thrilled to introduce you to Elizabeth behind the lifestyle blog Adrian James. Adrian James is all about finding the balance in a life of extremes with inspiration and creativity through style, beauty, home decor and healthy recipes. Check out Adrian James for some inspiring ideas for your everyday life!

 Get to know Elizabeth:

1. What are you currently reading?
September fashion magazines & The One & Only by Emily Giffin.

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant? 

I love to cook, so I've got a lot of favorite recipes. Anything using seasonal ingredients is always at the top of my list. Especially love Gwyneth Paltrow's It's All Good cookbook. Favorite restaurant is also tough, because I don't often go to the same place twice - too many new restaurants to discover! I've especially loved Sunda, Bottlefork & Avec. 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging? 

Getting to express my creativity & all the amazing people I've met through blogging isn't bad either!

4. Five things on your wish list? 

1. Fall wardrobe additions: versatile booties, oversized coat, black cropped jeans & Ray-Ban mirrored aviators. 
2. Travel to Greece!
3. A puppy - goldendoodle, please
4. Vitamix
5. Home decor

5. Favorite quote?  

"Trust the timing of your life." This has been especially important to me as of late. It's true, though - we are all exactly where we are meant to be! 

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Save Big. Eat Well.

I'm so excited to introduce you to my sister Kelli and blogger behind Save Big. Eat Well. Kelli's blog teaches you how to save big at the grocery store with coupons and apps, and also eat well with delicious recipes that are easy and inexpensive to make. You're probably thinking she has a huge stockpile of shampoo and toilet paper and a binder full of coupons, but Kelli takes a different approach to using coupons as a way to save for her family and create healthy meals each week. Check out her blog and start reading, start following and start saving big and eating well!

 Get to know Kelli:

1. What are you currently reading?
I am currently reading the Harry Potter series and I'm on book six, "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince".  I have never read them before and am thoroughly enjoying them.

2. What's your favorite recipe or restaurant?

My favorite recipe is for Blueberry Glace Pie from an old Dutch Cookbook called Eet Smakelijk.  It is made with a homemade crust that is slightly tart because of the tablespoon of vinegar added and the blueberry glace is so delicious (especially when made with Michigan berries).  My mom often makes this pie for my family and holds so many special memories for us, not to mention it's darn tasty. 

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?

My favorite thing about blogging is I feel like I can share my passion with whoever wants to hear it.  I love to save money and I love to eat, so blogging about both satisfies my desire to share about my passions. 

4. Five things on your wish list?

1. A Michael Kors Jet Set - Large Sutton purse
2. For time to slow down so that I can enjoy my last few weeks of summer before the start of school again
3. A rose gold necklace with the roman numerals of my wedding date
4. Continued friendships with both old friends and new friends alike
5. A European backpacking adventure to the Netherlands, Germany, and Paris with my grandma and mom (first and second generation immigrants from the Netherlands), dad, sister, and husband.  Sounds like heaven if you ask me.

5. Favorite quote?

My favorite "quote" comes from Psalm 139:13-14.  "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."

xoxo

PS

What I'm Reading Now: Pleasantly Petite

Today I'm featuring Katie and Brittani from Pleasantly Petite as part of my "What I'm Reading Now" series. Katie and Brittani have been friends for eighteen years (so amazing!) growing up in the same suburban neighborhood of Illinois and attending the University of  Arizona together. These busy girls both currently live and work in Chicago and are the co-bloggers behind the fashion & lifestyle blog Pleasantly Petite that features their amazing personal styles. For a dose of fashion and beauty tricks check out Pleasantly Petite!

Get to know Katie & Brittani:

1. What are you currently reading?
Katie: Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. I have to say I had no idea about this book until I saw a trailer for the movie that is set to come out sometime in October (starring Ben Afleck so we know it'll be good). There are rumors that the movie will have an alternate ending so I wanted to read the book to compare the two myself, plus I'm a huge sucker for romance thrillers.

Brittani: #GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso. I had seen a ton of people posting Instagrams of this book and when I realized the CEO of Nasty Gal was the one who wrote it I was intrigued. I wanted to see how this woman got to where she is today. What I've learned about her so far is not what I was expecting at all, but I'm loving it so far!

2. Favorite recipe or restaurant?
This is a tough one, since us girls love to eat! However, we'd have to say that we eat out more than we cook, which is a curse/blessing of living in a big city that gives us endless options. One of our favorite restaurants since its beginning has been RPM. We love how it's a chic take on modern Italian, while still incorporating family style. If you're ever in their lounge or bar, order a G-rizzle, it's our go-to and with this drink Giuliana Rancic proves she doesn't just know fashion.

3. What's your favorite thing about blogging?
We would have to say it's having a creative outlet and the freedom to put out unique content. We both work/are in law school 5 days a week and having a blog where you can let loose creatively is an awesome sense of relief from everyday life. We also love that it helps people, it's the best feeling to know that we encourage people to go out there and try something new or inspire them to be more confident.

4. Five things on your wish list?
Katie:

1. A versatile trench coat for fall
2. A solid pair of red stilettos
3. New tires for my car #postchicagowinterprobz
4. To have more time with my two nieces, we're headed to the Lincoln Park Zoo next week
5. This statement jacket with floral embroidery from ASOS, to die for 

Brittani:

1. Sophia Webster high heels. I was recently introduced to her shoes and instantly fell in love!
2. To spend more time with my boyfriend who currently lives in New York
3. A blue or red leather jacket
4. A month long trip around Europe. I've been dying to get to Italy, Paris, London and Switzerland (and I'll get there one day)
5. Fringed booties, preferably heels #shortgirlprobs

5. Favorite quote?
"A flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it, it just blooms"

xoxo

PS