Ease

This was a lovely weekend that brought a mix of activities. Burritos and margaritas with my husband at our favorite little stop on Friday. An art opening and sushi downtown on Saturday. Power washing the house on Sunday (my dad taught me how to do this and it was so much fun!). It was nice to have an easygoing approach to the weekend, to do whatever we wanted, whenever we wanted. I'd like to incorporate this mindset into the new week. I'm going to try to ease into things, and do them when the timing seems right, to be a little kinder to myself.

If I need inspiration, I'm going to think of these amazing paintings by Tracy Rocca. Aren't they incredible? In her artist's statement, she writes, "The imagery I use arises from, first, consistent observation and, second, a conscious effort to slow down." If this kind of beauty stems from a more ease-minded approach, I'm definitely on board!

Photos from here. 

Remembering

It's hard to believe September 11th happened a decade ago. As we reflect on the terribleness of that day, I'm struck with how quickly and abruptly so many lives were ended, all the plans and dreams that were cut short, all the things each that person left unfinished and unsaid, the chances forever lost to love and live. It makes me more than ever want to appreciate, truly and wholly, all that I have at this moment. Let's all hold our loved ones a little tighter this weekend and think of those who can't do the same.

Photo from here. 

Taking Shape

I'm crazy about these abstract geometric illustrations by twoems. Their colors are so vibrant while their forms are strong and sharp. They're kind of chaotic -- in a really happy, great way!

Photos from here. 

On Trend

I'm not the trendiest girl. Over the years, I've learned what styles I prefer and which look best on me. However, I'm always eager to learn what the fashion trends are each fall and spring, and I typically pick a few to incorporate into my wardrobe. This fall, there are quite a few I'm loving! And I was surprised to find nearly all of them represented at Zara. But what I think I like most is that the pieces -- no matter how on-trend they are -- all still look like Zara. They prove you can be current but still yourself. Here are a few that pick up some of fall's best trends:

Dots

Minimal

Lace

Color blocking

Navajo prints

Neon

Photos from here. 

Black and White

This long weekend was a wonderful farewell to summer. We had sunny, crisp weather, which felt like the perfect melding of summer and fall, and we spent almost the entire time with family. 

Perhaps it's the shift of seasons on my mind, but I've noticed I'm gravitating toward black and white combinations in interior design as well as fashion. It's such a timeless combination that works all times of year, and I'm finding myself adding touches of it everywhere. That's one of the reasons I'm drawn to this home by Sydney designer Greg Natale. I love the crispness of black and white together, along with clean lines, graphic patterns and glamorous chandeliers. 

Photos from here via here. 

Weekend Wish

We're heading into a long holiday weekend, with plans to spend time with our families. I'm especially excited to see my nephew. He just turned six months old and I cannot believe how he's changed our lives in such a short amount of time. He's the most incredible little guy -- charming, smart, smiley, curious. He's known as the flirt of his daycare and the only time he seems to get crabby is when he's hungry and his food is taking too long. I pretty much want to spend the entire next three days cuddling and playing with him. Not a bad goal, I think.

Have a fantastic weekend!

Photo by me. 

Happy September!

No matter how old I get, I'll probably always be a little jittery with excitement when this month arrives. For so long, September meant the beginning of a school year, a time to start fresh with new notebooks and pencils, clothes and hairstyles, hopes and expectations. Though I'm not embarking on new scholarly pursuits, I want to play into the month's mood by wearing a cute blazer, digging into some classic books and taking walks in the crisp air.

* Blazer

* Classroom photo

* Apple

* Back to School print

* Globe

* Desk

* Bag

* Loafer