My Latest Obsessions

Go Cubs!
Photo credit: Alma Veliky

Happy Friday! Countdown is on for the holidays. Some last minute shopping is on the list for the weekend along w/ some holiday parties. Fun!

Cheers to the last few weeks of 2016! Stay warm this weekend.

XO - d2

Some of my latest faves:

• This down loopner scarf is AH-MAZING. I live in it! I honestly wear it around the house I love it so much. Super cozy and warm. Perfect gift for that friend or sister that lives somewhere cold. 
• LOVE these fleece-lined fingerless mittens. I've had a few pairs over the years. They are the best. Can you tell it's been a little chilly here in Chicago?! 
• I have this Orla Kiely for Target Weekender Cosmetic bag in a different pattern. Love it. Would be a great gift for someone. 
• Sad = RIP Craig Sager. I was intrigued by the guy w/ the wild suits and the big smile. 
• Gotta say that the cleansing balm (along w/ the face oil) is my favorite Beautycounter product. It is saving my winter skin! LOVE using it as an overnight mask. Super hydrating. Check out all of the uses. Ummm, and how cool = BC was named one of the top 10 innovations that made women's lives better in 2016. Wahoo! 
• Super awesome = Rifle Paper Co. and Chatbooks collaborated. 
• I just finished PFC's 2017 calendar via Artifact Uprising. Love the brass calendar too but it's out of stock until 2017. Next year! 
• Movie on my list = Manchester by the Sea. Have you seen it yet?! Can't wait! 
• I'm fairly certain that PFC and I will be taking our annual winter weekend trip to Milwaukee. I think this year we are going to try the new Kinn micro-hotel in Bayview that are friends are opening in January. Looks really cool.  
• The books we loved in 2016. I'm getting ready to start the book Nightingale. Anyone read it yet? 
• I LOVE the new show This is Us. 19 heartbreaking moments that made us cry. It returns 1/10! 
• Super cool and pretty butterfly chair. 
• Perfect weekend sweatshirt. Looks cozy and warm. 
• Perfect timing for the holidays = how to raise kinder, less entitled kids (according to science). Next year I really want to try this for Christmas (from Glennon Melton) = 3 gifts. This would simplify things! Has anyone tried something similar? Would love to hear about it. 
• LOVE this brightening facial scrub from Acure. 

My Latest Obsessions...

Wyoming High School Reunion

Donuts w/ Dad at school

Love this little dude

Happy Friday! I'm excited for this weekend = chill! We don't have tons of plans and we intend on keeping it that way. I was out of town the last two weekends and I'll be traveling again in a few weekends so we put a big HOLD on this weekend. Tonight I'm taking all 3 kiddos to the middle school for our Fall Fun Fest. And then Saturday PM = nada! Sunday we have our nephew's birthday party (bowling = fun!).

Last weekend PFC/I were in Cincinnati for my HS reunion. It was a blast. Awesome Saturday evening venue = The Transept. It was an old church that was renovated. Very cool too to see Over the Rhine area and how much it has changed (for the better).

XO - d2

My latest favorites...

• Hilarious = Martha Stewart and Snoop Dog = new pot luck dinner series. Who what have thought?! 
• The art of making and not making plans = good read. PFC/I frequently look at the calendar and find a weeknight that we put a "HOLD" on = no plans can be made. Sometimes that evening turns into a one on one date night and sometimes we just chill. Love these nights. 
• Yummy = 28 pumpkin specials at local Chicago restaurants. 
• Great everyday leather bag. And my fave that I wear everyday = steel hatch leather bucket bag.  I picked it up at this cute local store = Two Story Farmhouse in Oak Park. 
• Love these Everlane wool coats! 
• Making this next week = Crispy Togarashi Chicken w/ Sesame Cucumber Relish. 
• Excited to cuddle up w/ a blanket and this new book by Maria Semple = Today will be Different. 
• Who is loving the new show, This is Us?! I love it. Here's a recap of Episode 4. 
• LOVING all of the Holiday Sets from Beautycounter. Check them out here. Faves = the Jet Set and Naughty to Nice Gift Set. Please reach out if you need help figuring out holiday gifts! Awesome overview on all of the gift sets. 
• How cool is this Labradorite Feldspar ring I got the other day at a local boutique?! Love it. Big fan of all of the items from Hawkhouse. 
• I'm a HUGE cost per wear girl (thanks, JuJu) and I can already tell that I'm going to get a lot of mileage out of this faux-leather pleated midi skirt. 
• I need to brag about my little sister, Carrie = New Talent 2016: Seven Innovative Design Studios to Watch. I'm heading to NYC in a few weeks = can't wait to hang w/ her!  
• LOVE the collab w/ Gap and Pendleton = awesomeness. I snagged a button down and it's super soft. Love it. 

My Latest Obsessions

Hanging out in Iowa City

Group Pic from Iowa City

Happy Friday! Wow, we're in October (time is flying). LOVE fall in Chicago. Last weekend we were at Kinnikinnick Farm and we had a blast. It was our 5th time there. Love that place. Here are some pics from our time there 2 years ago. And then over Labor Day weekend we went to University of Iowa w/ a bunch of friends. Best time. I experienced my first big 10 football game = crazy! Love Iowa City. What a great little town.

Cheers to the weekend ahead. PFC and G$ are heading out to an Indian Guides campout weekend. The gals are heading downtown to hang w/ one of their favorite aunts. And I'm heading to Denver for a little Beautycounter action! Fun! Funny how sitting at an airport alone w/ a coffee and a book = heavenly!

XO - d2


Some of my latest faves:

• LOVE these Lou Loafer shoes in Animal-Print Calf Hair. 
• What a beautiful little bud vase set. Pretty colors. 
• I may have to try this DIY Anthro Clutch! Anyone game?! 
• Cute ballet flats and great price point. 
• YUM = new from Skinnytaste = Turkey Chili Taco Soup. 
• Great skirt! 
• What successful people eat for breakfast. 
• I just started Amy Schumer's book, The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo. Super funny so far. 10 books everyone will be reading this fall. What about you?! I still can't get When Breathe Becomes Air by Dr. Paul Kalinithi out of my head. I went and heard his wife speak a few weeks ago. Wow. She is a woman filled w/ grace and love. 
• LOVING the new show, This is Us. Although, I miss my Braverman family. What do you guys think of it?! 
• Must try this new Jeni's flavor of ice cream = Xocoveza. OMG, it sounds amazing. 
• I'm heading to NYC the first wknd in November. Super pumped to see my little sister's new pad and hang a bit. On my list = heading to the Sabah dealer. Can't wait to get some turkish slippers! I'm leaning towards silver. Owner/founder seems like a cool dude. 
• Cute = Oh Joy's fall Target collection (love me some rose gold!) 
• This looks great and is on my list = Skinnytaste's Turkey Chili Taco Soup. 
• Pretty lace dress. Love this fringed plaid button-down dress. 
• Totally dig these tassel earrings. 30% off right now. 
• Adore this necklace. 
• And lastly, who is SUPER pumped for the return of The Affair = Nov. 20th. Here's the trailer. 

My Latest Obsessions

Cheyenne, WY (playing around w/ the awesome murals downtown)

G$ and CMC (chilling at our hotel in Cheyenne, WY)

Dinner at the Rib and Chophouse in Cheyenne

Snuck out = date night in Jackson at the Local

Awesome breakfast at Nora's Fish Inn in Wilson, WY

My happy place = my favorite chair in the cabin to read and cozy up in. 

G$ w/ CMC watching in the background

Hanging in Bozeman, MT w/ JuJu - a little visit to see the cousins

Happy Friday! So, we are slowly getting back to our routine after our road trip out west. Reentry can be tough. We had an awesome time. There is just something about fresh air and the big sky country that really puts you in a state of zen. Truly. Granted we were on a "trip" vs a "vacation" (awesome read btw) with our 3 kids so there were the obvious sibling squabbles, etc. and the numerous "are we there yet?" questions but overall it was a really fantastic trip. It was some much needed quality time for the 5 of us and a huge bonus = we got to spend some time w/ JuJu and Grandpa T (oh, and time w/ their two labradoodles Maddie and Lacey - can't forget them!).

Now we are in Back to School mode! All 3 of the kids start this upcoming Thursday. We'll soon have a 7th and 5th grader along w/ a Kindergartner. I know, everyone says it ALL the time = where does the time go and time flies - but it is so very true. I thought that middle school was SOOO far away and that any friends in that boat were a window of my (far off) future. And now we've been in that boat for awhile. Each chapter/stage comes with it's own set of "things" and it's so case by case for each kid. Funny how they are so different. So very different. Believe me, we have had LOTS of conversations in our household this summer (especially when we've been under the same roof) that we need to respect one another's differences.

Cheers to the weekend! Those of you who are doing the last minute back to school scramble = good luck! I'm excited to get over the hump of next week and settle into our fall schedule. I love fall clothes (layers!) and the colorful leaves = bring it!

XO - d2

Some of my latest faves:

• Loving the Olympics (especially the swimming and gymnastics). Really loved this article on swimmer Katie Ledecky entitled "Do the Dang Work." My new saying = do the dang! And Ryan Lochte = apologizes for his role in the false robbery in Rio. Secretly (okay not so secretly) fascinated by all of this = Inside the Michael Phelps & Ryan Lochte Rivalry: Why the Family Man Won and the Not the Frat Boy. 
• Outside Mag's 16 Best Places to Live. Fun = we were just in Jackson last week and I'm heading to Denver for a wknd in October! 
• I read the book When Breathe Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi this spring. I have NOT read a book in a long time that has stayed with me like this one has. I absolutely loved it. Moving. I'm looking forward to attending Dr. Lucy Kalanithi's presentation and book signing in September. 
• SUPER exciting news = looks like we might be seeing our Parenthood family again!? Yippee! Super pumped as I miss my Braverman fam! 
• I'm a huge fan of Heath Ceramics. I have a few pieces here and there. I don't have dinnerware from Heath but how pretty are all these place settings?! Love them. Appreciate the pairing of the new w/ the old. 
• Okay, I always love documenting the various places we stopped on our road trips (so when my memory fails me I can circle back to my notes). Some of our pit stops en route to our final destination (Ennis, MT) included: 1st night = Lincoln, Nebraska (very cool little town if you ask me!) - dinner at Lazlo's Brewery & Grill (Haymarket location), ice cream at Ivanna Cone (ah-mazing homemade ice cream and sorbets - personally loved my key lime sorbet w/ basil, and enjoyed learning about how they make their ice cream) / 2nd night = Cheyenne, WY where we stayed at the Plains Hotel (cool historic hotel downtown) and bopped around the downtown and spent lots of time in The Wrangler checking out the western wear. Our 3rd night = Jackson, WY where PFC and I snuck out for a little dinner sans kiddos at Local (while the kids gladly hung back at the hotel binge watching movies - they were on cloud nine - win win!). The kiddos had pizza at Pinky G's (awesome little pizza place). And I scored a new notebook at Paper and Grace and wish I had more time to check out this adorable little boutique called . I bought my first non-moleskin notebook as they didn't carry them - and I've been SUPER thrilled w/ my new Luechtturm1917 notebook (yes, I get pretty geeked out about paper, cards and notebooks). And just as we were literally heading out of town I ran into MADE (wish I had more time in there - so many great items!). Next trip! We made a pit stop at Nora's Fish Creek Inn for breakfast = awesome!!! 
• 8 Genius Hacks for Scoring the Best Hotel Room, Every Time. Totally agree w/ slide 3 = make a call. 
• Anxiously waiting to see Bad Moms w/ my sister! Let's get to the theatre ASAP, Stephie! Heard it is hilarious! Who has seen it?! 
• Saw this Bella Dahl Off the Shoulder Denim shirt in person = super cute! And I know that summer is on it's way out but this dress is adorable! 

My Latest Obsessions

Grandpa T and JuJu in Lake Geneva

The Kiddos

Cousins = TROUBLE! 

JuJu, D2, Steph (missing the youngest pup!)

Hanging w/ PFC

We had the best time catching up with JuJu and Grandpa T this past weekend in Lake Geneva to celebrate my brother in law's birthday. And super fun = we're taking off next Friday to road trip out to Montana and we get to see them again! Wahoo! Please send any book recommendations my way = on my list next week to hit up the library and our local book store. Super PUMPED to cozy up in my favorite chair at the cabin and chill w/ a good book.

Okay, I cannot believe our youngest turns 6 this weekend. How is that possible?! Gosh, I remember the day that Georgie was born like it was yesterday. Time flies. G$ is getting together w/ some of his buds for a little pool party to celebrate and then Saturday he has requested his favorite lunch = Alpine subs! I couldn't agree more. Yum!

Cheers to the last weekend in July! Enjoy.

XO - d2

Some of my latest faves...

• What a great list = Best Old-School Ice Cream Shops in America. Chicago's own Margie's Candies made the cut. For George's 3rd birthday we ended up at Margie's. If you have not been before you must add it to your list! 
• The 29 most beautiful rooms on Instagram. 
• Who knew there was such a thing as National Lipstick Day = yesterday?! I'm always envious of folks that can totally rock the perfect red. It's just not in my wheelhouse (much to my mom JuJu's dismay - who adores lip stick!!!). I've never been a lipstick gal but I definitely dig Beautycounter's lip sheers (don't feel as lipstick-esque)! And here's an awesome post on Are your beauty products safe? How are they affecting your health? 
• I definitely want to build in some meditation into my life. I always think about it yet it becomes a fleeting thought. I'm determined to start! 
• LOVE the relaxed tees from Everlane. And I appreciate Everlane's mission of radical transparency. 
• Interesting = How These Companies Made the 4-day Workweeks Feasible. 
• Michelle Obama's speech at the DNC was super inspiring. There are many quotes that we are going to repeat down the road. Here's the speech in it's entirety. 
• So true = the Most Undervalued Women in America are Childless Aunts. I know many and they are pretty amazing! 
• 85 Snack Ideas for Kids (and adults). I cannot tell you how many times I hear those words..."I want a snack." Maybe this will provide a little snack inspiration! We're coming up w/ our list for our roadtrip next week! 
• Let it Go. Let it Go. Let it Go. 6 Things Happy Couples Always Let Go Of. 
• This made me laugh = Early 2000s Status Symbol. I SO remember the majority of these items! 
• These little sandals are adorable. 
• It was so much fun seeing my mom this past weekend. Zingerman's reminds me of my mom as she used to send my sister and I the sour cream coffee cake from time to time when the two of us lived together downtown. It's the best! And it makes an excellent hostess gift!!!
• 18 Great Chicago Suburban Restaurants = awesome little list. We might be hitting up one of our faves this weekend = Autre Monde. 

My Latest Obsessions

CMC in Michiana Shores

Sunset in Michiana Shores (over the 4th of July Weekend)

G$ and Crazy Hair Day at camp

Girls Spa Night In (+G$)

MMC's biggest fan  = G$ (she was getting ready to head out to her Actors Garden musical Pots and Pans)

OMG, in my last post we were wearing winter coats = wow! We're now fully into summer mode and I cannot believe that come fall CMC, MMC and G$ will be in 7th, 5th and Kindergarten. I know I say this all the time but time flies! You blink and then another year has gone by.

We're off this weekend to Cincinnati to visit a dear college friend of mine. Can't wait to catch up w/ her and her adorable crew! We also get to see some dear family friends too! And of course we are SUPER excited for a Graeter's Ice Cream stop (or 2!). While we can now get my fave - black raspberry chip (the best!!!) at several local grocery stores it's just not the same as getting it from one of the stand alone ice cream shops in Cinci! And at some point this summer I need to make black raspberry chip ice cream sandwiches (similar to this but easier = just assemble!). I like to use the lace cookies from Trader Joe's. These ice cream andwiches are AH-mazing!

Cheers to the second half of summer! Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend.
XO - d2

P.S. Some of my latest faves...

• This watermelon salsa looks awesome! 
• Feel as though it's always super tough to come up w/ dinner in the summer - as we're always in lots of different directions. Here are the best 15 minute dinner recipes. The asian chopped kale salad w/ miso sesame dressing looks awesome!  
• I've added some of these eats to our Milwaukee file = 50 things to eat in Milwaukee before you die. Totally agree w/ the #1 = anything at Odd Duck!
• Hilarious = pack your bags = you can stay at the actual 'Dirty Dancing' resort! How fun! 
• Rifle Paper Co. will always be one of my faves. How pretty are these Queen Anne wrapping sheets?!
• Some great scenes from Wimbledon 2016. 
• We've been trying really hard to be super diligent about sunscreen this summer. Here's a great post on Demystifying the Myths of Summer Sun Exposure. Myth #1 resonated w/ me as I'm a shade seeker (but had not necessarily thought about UVB rays bouncing off of reflective surfaces). 
• Interesting read = Raising Successful Children. I'm personally trying this summer to "let go" a bit more. 
• Not sure if we'll get to any of the restaurants in the Thunderdome Restaurant group this wknd - but they are on my list at some point down the road! Our old neighbors (the Lanni boys) are kicking some restaurant booty! Love watching what they are up to these days. 
• Avocado toast = yum! Ways to fancy it up = even more fun! 
• Obama After Dark. Funny little take away = 7 slightly salted almonds! 
• Absolutely LOVE this = In praise of 'scruffy hospitality.' 
• I've been a big fan of Lacroix sparkling water for some time now. Why is LaCroix EVERYWHERE?! LaCroix over boys = hilarious! Tangerine flavor = my new fave. 
• I've always loved Bono so I was SUPER excited to hear the exciting news a few weeks ago = Bono and Ali Hewson Join a Natural Juggernaut. I love a fab Target collab - check out the collab this fall = Santa Monica Start Up Beautycounter Scores a Target Collab. Honestly, if you have ever thought about joining Beautycounter now is the time. Happy to chat! One of my favorite new products = the charcoal mask! 
• My youngest sister recently moved from Brooklyn to the Upper West side and I cannot wait to visit her (hopefully this fall at some point!). I had the best visit a couple of years ago. I'm due for another one!!! 
• I'm definitely digging the off the shoulder tops and dresses out there. They look so cute on people. I have yet to get one. This simple linen off the shoulder tee is cute. And here is a super simple tank w/ a fun little bow in the back. Love that little added detail in the back. Oh, and check out this LuLu Off the Shoulder dress from a gal I follow (Cupcakes and Cashmere). And here's another fun off the shoulder top too. LOVE all of Jenna's picks from J.Crew (especially this off the shoulder dress in bold red). 
• I haven't been reading much lately this summer and want to find a few good ones to pick up before we head to Montana in August. Any recommendations? Here are 20 Fun Novels to Read at the Beach as Chosen by Authors. 

My Latest Obsessions

CMC in Michiana Shores

Sunset in Michiana Shores (over the 4th of July Weekend)

G$ and Crazy Hair Day at camp

Girls Spa Night In (+G$)

MMC's biggest fan  = G$ (she was getting ready to head out to her Actors Garden musical Pots and Pans)

OMG, in my last post we were wearing winter coats = wow! We're now fully into summer mode and I cannot believe that come fall CMC, MMC and G$ will be in 7th, 5th and Kindergarten. I know I say this all the time but time flies! You blink and then another year has gone by.

We're off this weekend to Cincinnati to visit a dear college friend of mine. Can't wait to catch up w/ her and her adorable crew! We also get to see some dear family friends too! And of course we are SUPER excited for a Graeter's Ice Cream stop (or 2!). While we can now get my fave - black raspberry chip (the best!!!) at several local grocery stores it's just not the same as getting it from one of the stand alone ice cream shops in Cinci! And at some point this summer I need to make black raspberry chip ice cream sandwiches (similar to this but easier = just assemble!). I like to use the lace cookies from Trader Joe's. These ice cream andwiches are AH-mazing!

Cheers to the second half of summer! Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend.
XO - d2

P.S. Some of my latest faves...

• This watermelon salsa looks awesome! 
• Feel as though it's always super tough to come up w/ dinner in the summer - as we're always in lots of different directions. Here are the best 15 minute dinner recipes. The asian chopped kale salad w/ miso sesame dressing looks awesome!  
• I've added some of these eats to our Milwaukee file = 50 things to eat in Milwaukee before you die. Totally agree w/ the #1 = anything at Odd Duck!
• Hilarious = pack your bags = you can stay at the actual 'Dirty Dancing' resort! How fun! 
• Rifle Paper Co. will always be one of my faves. How pretty are these Queen Anne wrapping sheets?!
• Some great scenes from Wimbledon 2016. 
• We've been trying really hard to be super diligent about sunscreen this summer. Here's a great post on Demystifying the Myths of Summer Sun Exposure. Myth #1 resonated w/ me as I'm a shade seeker (but had not necessarily thought about UVB rays bouncing off of reflective surfaces). 
• Interesting read = Raising Successful Children. I'm personally trying this summer to "let go" a bit more. 
• Not sure if we'll get to any of the restaurants in the Thunderdome Restaurant group this wknd - but they are on my list at some point down the road! Our old neighbors (the Lanni boys) are kicking some restaurant booty! Love watching what they are up to. 
• Avocado toast = yum! Ways to fancy it up = even more fun! 
• Obama After Dark. Funny little take away = 7 slightly salted almonds! 
• Absolutely LOVE this = In praise of 'scruffy hospitality.' 
• I've been a big fan of Lacroix sparkling water for some time now. Why is LaCroix EVERYWHERE?! LaCroix over boys = hilarious! Tangerine flavor = my new fave. 
• I've always loved Bono so I was SUPER excited to hear the exciting news a few weeks ago = Bono and Ali Hewson Join a Natural Juggernaut. I love a fab Target collab - check out the collab this fall = Santa Monica Start Up Beautycounter Scores a Target Collab. Honestly, if you have ever thought about joining Beautycounter now is the time. Happy to chat! One of my favorite new products = the charcoal mask! 
• My youngest sister recently moved from Brooklyn to the Upper West side and I cannot wait to visit her (hopefully this fall at some point!). I had the best visit a couple of years ago. I'm due for another one!!! 
• I'm definitely digging the off the shoulder tops and dresses out there. They look so cute on people. I have yet to get one. This simple linen off the shoulder tee is cute. And here is a super simple tank w/ a fun little bow in the back. Love that little added detail in the back. Oh, and check out this LuLu Off the Shoulder dress from a gal I follow (Cupcakes and Cashmere). And here's another fun off the shoulder top too. LOVE all of Jenna's picks from J.Crew (especially this off the shoulder dress in bold red). 
• I haven't been reading much lately this summer and want to find a few good ones to pick up before we head to Montana in August. Any recommendations? Here are 20 Fun Novels to Read at the Beach as Chosen by Authors. 

My Latest Obsessions

CMC in Michiana Shores

Sunset in Michiana Shores (over the 4th of July Weekend)

G$ and Crazy Hair Day at camp

Girls Spa Night In (+G$)

MMC's biggest fan  = G$ (she was getting ready to head out to her Actors Garden musical Pots and Pans)

OMG, in my last post we were wearing winter coats = wow! We're now fully into summer mode and I cannot believe that come fall CMC, MMC and G$ will be in 7th, 5th and Kindergarten. I know I say this all the time but time flies! You blink and then another year has gone by.

We're off this weekend to Cincinnati to visit a dear college friend of mine. Can't wait to catch up w/ her and her adorable crew! We also get to see some dear family friends too! And of course we are SUPER excited for a Graeter's Ice Cream stop (or 2!). While we can now get my fave - black raspberry chip (the best!!!) at several local grocery stores it's just not the same as getting it from one of the stand alone ice cream shops in Cinci! And at some point this summer I need to make black raspberry chip ice cream sandwiches (similar to this but easier = just assemble!). I like to use the lace cookies from Trader Joe's. These ice cream andwiches are AH-mazing!

Cheers to the second half of summer! Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend.
XO - d2

P.S. Some of my latest faves...

• This watermelon salsa looks awesome! 
• Feel as though it's always super tough to come up w/ dinner in the summer - as we're always in lots of different directions. Here are the best 15 minute dinner recipes. The asian chopped kale salad w/ miso sesame dressing looks awesome!  
• I've added some of these eats to our Milwaukee file = 50 things to eat in Milwaukee before you die. Totally agree w/ the #1 = anything at Odd Duck!
• Hilarious = pack your bags = you can stay at the actual 'Dirty Dancing' resort! How fun! 
• Rifle Paper Co. will always be one of my faves. How pretty are these Queen Anne wrapping sheets?!
• Some great scenes from Wimbledon 2016. 
• We've been trying really hard to be super diligent about sunscreen this summer. Here's a great post on Demystifying the Myths of Summer Sun Exposure. Myth #1 resonated w/ me as I'm a shade seeker (but had not necessarily thought about UVB rays bouncing off of reflective surfaces). 
• Interesting read = Raising Successful Children. I'm personally trying this summer to "let go" a bit more. 
• Not sure if we'll get to any of the restaurants in the Thunderdome Restaurant group this wknd - but they are on my list at some point down the road! 
• Avocado toast = yum! Ways to fancy it up = even more fun! 
• Obama After Dark. Funny little take away = 7 slightly salted almonds! 
• Absolutely LOVE this = In praise of 'scruffy hospitality.' 
• I've been a big fan of Lacroix sparkling water for some time now. Why is LaCroix EVERYWHERE?! LaCroix over boys = hilarious! Tangerine flavor = my new fave. 
• I've always loved Bono so I was SUPER excited to hear the exciting news a few weeks ago = Bono and Ali Hewson Join a Natural Juggernaut. I love a fab Target collab - check out the collab this fall = Santa Monica Start Up Beautycounter Scores a Target Collab. Honestly, if you have ever thought about joining Beautycounter now is the time. Happy to chat! One of my favorite new products = the charcoal mask! 
• My youngest sister recently moved from Brooklyn to the Upper West side and I cannot wait to visit her (hopefully this fall at some point!). I had the best visit a couple of years ago. I'm due for another one!!! 
• I'm definitely digging the off the shoulder tops and dresses out there. They look so cute on people. I have yet to get one. This simple linen off the shoulder tee is cute. And here is a super simple tank w/ a fun little bow in the back. Love that little added detail in the back. Oh, and check out this LuLu Off the Shoulder dress from a gal I follow (Cupcakes and Cashmere). And here's another fun off the shoulder top too. LOVE all of Jenna's picks from J.Crew (especially this off the shoulder dress in bold red). 
• I haven't been reading much lately this summer and want to find a few good ones to pick up before we head to Montana in August. Any recommendations? Here are 20 Fun Novels to Read at the Beach as Chosen by Authors. 

My Latest Obsessions

Skiing at Crystal Mountain

Our little Trooper = G$

Happy Friday! Last weekend we had an absolute blast skiing over the long weekend in Thompsonville, MI at Crystal Mountain. I even skied myself and had a lesson = big deal for me! Unfortunately, G$ broke his clavicle but has been a total trooper. Let's just say that he's rocking out w/ a lot of lego sets (one handed!). It will be a few weeks before he can return to his usual activities.

Excited to head out to a cocktail party tonight to kick off the River Forest Tennis Club season = always a fun event! And after that we're heading to FitzGerald's to catch the Bono brothers. Some of our dear friends are in town = awesome (and we'll be able to catch up w/ them at FitzGerald's). CMC is in the chorus for the school musical so tomorrow we're all heading to the Middle School to catch Charlie Brown = fun! And SO pumped that we have nothing on tap tomorrow PM = time to catch up on life and PFC/I can catch up on episodes of Billions. LOVE IT! LOVE Damien Lewis as Bobby Axelrod. Is anyone else watching Billions?! And then Sunday morning I get to hang w/ a dear college friend and some gal pals.

Cheers to a fabulous weekend! And what's up w/ this crazy unseasonably warm weather?!
XO - d2


My Latest Obsessions:

• Interesting = Dorothy Hamill's note to her younger self. 
• So, PFC and I are heading to Milwaukee in a few weekends for our annual Milwaukee Weekend away. Some restaurants I've been eyeing = Sanford, c.1880 and Ardent. Last year we tried All Purpose and LOVED it. Any suggestions?! And I always stop in and pick up some Colectivo coffee = the best! 
• How to wear plaid. My favorite way =  her wearing it w/ a ball skirt. I did something similar over the holidays = a plaid (holiday-esque plaid shirt) w/ a black dressy skirt. It was super cute! 
• I've never wanted a real tattoo. They are beautiful in their own right but not for me. My kids are OBSESSED w/ temporary tattoos. 15 tattoos that will give you ink envy. Here are some super cute temporary pizza tattoos. Look at these pretty metallic tattoos = 40% off Tattly's site right now. Love the Be Happy one. 
• Pretty awesome = Lake Geneva = one of the 12 Most Luxurious Lake Towns in the World. Can't wait to get back out there this spring/summer = my sister and brother in law bought a place there this past summer.  
• My favorite winter scarf is on SUPER sale. Buy one NOW! Best purchase EVER. I live in mine. Makes a perfect gift too! 
• Pretty cool = family friendly victorian house in SF. 
• Next up on my list to make = these yummy looking all natural fridge cookies! 
• LOVE this simple black dress. So pretty and versatile. 
• Some really cute stuff from the Daryl K collection w/ Madewell. Love the Bonnie Dress and this Denim Shirt Dress. 
• It's never too early to start thinking about summer! I love my Scout bags for the pool. Some fun new colors! The Pocket Rocket is my fave! And everyone can use an Errand Boy! 
• What is the right dose of exercise for a longer life?! 
• Love this Beauty Uniform via A Cup of Jo. And how great is Caroline's apartment = love the dark moody paint colors. 
• Fingers crossed that we'll secure the documentary STINK (Why are toxic Chemicals Hiding in America) at Oak Park's Lake Theatre this spring = stay tuned! Here's a review of the documentary. 
• Love this = two tone (black/navy) Cotton Double-Knit Turtleneck. More importantly, love Everlane's mission = Radical Transparency. 
• Okay, so I've been hearing how much everyone loves Beautycounter's Nourishing Cleansing Balm as an overnight mask = I can officially say I've joined that camp for sure. So many different uses. Used it this week as a mask = in love! 
• And btw, I'm thrilled to be working w/ a company that is truly working hard to change the personal care industry = Beautycounter's mission to Reform the Beauty Industry. ROCK ON! 

My Latest Obsessions

Our 1st Blackhawks Game

Getting ready to head into the Stadium for the game!

Happy Friday! I cannot believe we are now in February. Valentine's Day is less than 2 weeks away = yikes! This year (similar to last year) Valentine's Day falls over Presidents Day Weekend and we'll be up in MI at Crystal Mountain skiing w/ the kids. Super excited! Some day we'll check out the big leagues and head out west to ski but for now this is perfect.

My middle sister and I were able to sneak away and visit my dad in FL two weekends ago. It was so nice to catch up w/ him and his girlfriend and just kind of "be" for a bit. Some of our faves that weekend = lunch at The Seafood Bar at The Breakers Hotel in Palm Beach (what a gorgeous hotel!), checking out Worth Avenue, and checking out the sea turtles at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center.

Tonight the girls will be hanging w/ PFC at the Daddy Daughter Valentine's Day dance. G$ and I will be there as PFC's assistants as he is in charge of the entire dance this year via Indian Princess. The girls LOVE this event and always look forward to it every year. Let's just say there will be lots of pink and red and little dancing ladies!

And tomorrow PM we have a dinner party w/ PFC's Marquette crew. Looking forward to it!

Cheers to a fabulous weekend!
XO - D2

Some of my latest faves:

• The play, The Flick, looks really great and is playing at the Steppenwolfe Theatre. It won the Pulitzer Prize for drama in 2014. 
• How many of you have read Liane Moriarty's book, Big Little Lies? OMG, so beyond excited for the HBO series that is coming out based on the book.  Great cast (and big names) = Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon. And for those of you who liked JoJo Moyes book, Me Before You, it is being made into a movie come summer. That book brought me to tears. One of the best books ever. I'm so there the first week it opens (w/ a pack of tissues in tow)! 
• I know I've mentioned that Beautycounter's Nourishing Cleansing Balm = the total "Miracle" balm. But I've just gotta say it again = LOVE it! Get to know the Balm! And there is still time (until February 14th) to purchase one of BC's Valentine's Day packages. My faves = the Best of Mini or the Best of Face. Great value on the packages too! Personally I bought one of the Best of Minis = perfect for traveling! 
• Anyone familiar w/ Rocks Box?! Someone mentioned this to me the other day and I immediately checked it out. For $19.95/month you get unlimited access to rent from an ever-rotating closet of designer jewelry. It's all about the accessories anyway, right?! 
• Okay, I'm still rocking and rolling on The 30 Day Clean. I picked up a few Vosges chocolate bars the other day as gifts - and I decided that I want to try the Coconut Carmel & Tart Cherry Bar soon (but after the Clean of course)! It's one of their bars I have yet to try. 
• Maybe we'll print out one of these GIANT Valentine's Day posters for PFC. Fun!  
• Everlane came out w/ their first ankle boot. Super cute!
• Meet the Chicagoan who designed a kitchen for the Coppolas. 
• High School buddy Cooked 90 Meals in One Month and how it changed his cooking. 
• Loved my friend's post on Growth (loved her list of 10). Reminded me a bit of a question that G$ asked me the other day = What are you going to be when you grow up? Do you think you could be a teacher and be in my classroom next year?! Cute. While I'm not going back to school to be a teacher I will always be a teacher in many ways as a parent.  And really appreciated her #10 = Authenticity. If there is anything I believe in 100%, it’s being authentic. For women, in particular, don’t apologize for being you and make time for you. Show up as the real and true you and you will always be on your path.
• Love this = 7 ingredients + 20 natural beauty recipes. 
• Only Women Showed up to work after the snowstorm, Senator says = but of course! 
• Great post on Being Mindful. 
• Awesomeness = Julia Child's Provence Home will become a cooking and yoga retreat. Sign me up! 
• Check out these adorable clutches! So cute, right?! One of my favorites = the Tribal Princess. And what great little pouches. They would make the perfect little gift. And this one - Killing It - would be so fun for a friend who is rocking and rolling!