My Latest Obsessions

A little Valentine's Day Action last month

Date w/ my two guys at Duck Inn

"Masking" around

Happy Friday AND St. Patrick's Day! Cheers to a great weekend. Hope you all are wearing your green! We watched our local St. P's Day parade a few weeks ago but the kids remembered their green this morning. We are in countdown mode until Spring break! We get to see JuJu and Grandpa T very soon in AZ. Super excited for a change of scenery and some warmer temps.

Some of my latest faves:

• I thought this was a great article = What Teens Need Most from their Parents. 
• SUPER pumped to check out this new spot in Milwaukee's Bay View = Kinn Guesthouse. And I think next time we're up there we're going to stay there vs our beloved Iron Horse Hotel. Try something new!
• We enjoyed Duck Inn a few weeks ago. And it looks like a fun spot to head back to in the summer. 
• Love this ruffled shirt. Pretty off the shoulder top. 
• Good stuff = 5 Creative ways to Bring More Kindness to the Home. 
• Looking forward to this Target collab w/ Victoria Beckham on 4/9! Loving the dresses for little girls. 
• Completely in love w/ this friend's local house on one of my favorite design sites Design Sponge. Bravo for being featured! And check out the home owner/designer's own design site = Home Ec. And nice too that local Reuse Depot was mentioned. And since we're talking local check out another local fave via instagram = @salvagegirlchicago. 
• Stunning wedding of a beautiful gal I grew up w/ = love everything about these pics! 
• Bravo Ben Affleck. 
• Loved the book Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls. It's being made into a movie! And guess what other book is being made into a movie = Rebecca Skloot's The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. I had the pleasure of seeing Rebecca Skloot speak in person a few years back. 
• This cool lego tape is making the rounds. 
• We haven't seen the movie Moonlight yet. On the list. Loved reading this article on the breakout star Ashton Sanders (and he went to Chicago's DePaul University). 
• Loving Beautycounter's new BC+ line. The masks = the best! We all tried them! 
• 6 words you should say to your child today = great read. 
• Appreciate the mission behind the company Bright Endeavors = opportunities for young moms and their kids. Found my candle at one of my favorite local little shops = Two Story Farmhouse.  

My Latest Obsessions

Fun family wedding

Happy Friday! So, it's Cate's Birthday today and we officially have a teenager in the house (and it's Inauguration Day). But hey, I would rather talk about the chocolate cake we'll be having tonight celebrating Cate's bday vs the latter.

CMC has requested a steak dinner tonight so we are heading to a local and old school steak house = Tom's Steak House. And tomorrow night we get to see a dear college friend of mine who is in town. Excited! A group of us is heading to Cold Storage for dinner.

Cheers to a fabulous weekend! And here's to hope and prayers for a peaceful transfer of presidential power.
XO - d2

Some of my latest faves...

• I saw La La Land w/ PFC and LOVED it! Thoughts?! Both Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone were awesome. 
• Who watched the season premiere of 'Homeland' last weekend?! WE did! Homeland's Director on What to Expect on Filming Season 6 in New York. 
• Exciting news = 'This is Us' was just renewed for season 2 and season 3. Pumped. I am behind though and need to catch up on the last two episodes. 'This is Us': 19 Heartbreaking Moments that Made Us Cry this Season So Far. 
• Thousands will be in D.C. to stand with Women. Here's how to stand with them from home. 
• Obama's Secret to Surviving the White House Years = Books. 
• The best restaurants to try for Chicago Restaurant Week. 
• Thinking ahead to Valentine's Day - some of my fave gift ideas from Beautycounter = Be Mine Valentine's Day Duo, Love & Luster Gift Set (on sale!) and The Jet Set (on sale!). Ummm, and guess who was just listed as one of the 20 growing companies that are going to be huge (and hiring now) = Beautycounter! 
• Some favorite V.Day cards = Let's Be Frank, You're a Fox, and Like Saturdays and Snooze Buttons, 
• Super helpful read = What Teens Need Most From Their Parents. 
• Some soup recipes I'm going to try this winter = Joy of Cooking's potato leek soup, crock pot sweet potato basil soup, sweet potato and apple soup, and roasted brussels sprouts and cauliflower soup. 
• Good read = The Importance of Showing Up. 
• So interesting = The 5 Craziest Hours of the White House. Absolutely loved this = the Bush sisters wrote the Obama Girls a Note. 
• Here's a pretty scalloped black top. Cute nautical tunic dress! 

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! 

My Latest Obsessions

Wedding at the Drake Hotel

Happy Friday! My sister and I are in FL visiting my dad. Perfect timing to get out of the cold! I'm excited to spend some quality time w/ the two of them. And then Sunday when I get back we are heading to the Blackhawks game as a family. The girls have been asking to go to a game for awhile so we are going for their birthdays. I still can't believe CMC turned 12 on Wednesday and MMC turns 10 later in the month! Time flies. Pumped for our first Hawks game!! Wahoo. 

Have a great weekend! XO - D2


Some of my latest faves...

• The Oh Joy collaboration w/ Target is adorable. Check it out. So cute! 
• Madewell's spring collection. Favorite = the button back dress. 
• Great list = 10 things your kids need to be able to do on their own by middle school. 
• It's been freezing (single digits!) this week. Brrrr. I've been wearing my trusty down loopner scarf that my youngest sister gave me last Christmas. It's on sale right now - perfect time for someone to snag one.  Great gift too! 
• We were at PFC's cousin wedding this weekend. It was simply amazing. She was a gorgeous bride! And we put together a flash mob, how fun?! 
• Interesting article = Contaminating Our Bodies w/ Everyday Products. 
• I'm SUPER pumped to try Beautycounter's new Style Sea Salt Spray! And AWESOMENESS = the Charcoal Bars are back as they were a HIT during the holidays. Everyone LOVES them. Let me know if you want a sample as I'm dropping/sending some out next week. AND it's time to start thinking about Valentine's Day = check out these great Valentine's sets from Beautycounter. Perfect gifts!  
• I'm excited to finish the book Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff on my trip. I also brought the book When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi. I've been following his essays and his wife's essay via Paul's sister in law, Joanna Goddard of A Cup of Jo. And then next book in my line up = Not Just a Pretty Face (the ugly side of the beauty industry) by Stacy Malkan. 
• PFC and I watched Billions this past Sunday. Loved it! It's helping our withdrawal from Homeland and The Affair! 
• G$ will be in Kindergarten next year. Kindergarten the new first grade? Sad. 
• 5 Milwaukee bars w/ fireplaces to cozy up w/ this winter. So pumped = booked our annual Milwaukee weekend get away. We LOVE the Iron Horse Hotel = awesome! We've been going to Milwaukee over the years = 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2010. 
• This will be interesting = Vail Resorts by urban ski area outside of Chicago (aka - Wilmot). Exciting! 
• The kids are a few  years off from college but we'll blink and we'll be at that point = Rethinking College Admissions. We blinked and all of a sudden CMC is 12 and in Middle School. It happens so fast! 
• The Environmental Working Group's Dietary Guidelines. Clear advice on the guidelines. And btw, I'm totally rocking it w/ the 30 day clean. Been so GOOD! However, I might have to treat myself to another burger at Au Cheval when this is OVER! 
• Brilliant and so easy = teach your child not to interrupt in one simple step. 
• Sad = the passing of David Bowie. 

My Latest Obsessions

Heading to a holiday party! Our little photo bomber = G$!

Ski lessons for G$

Happy Friday and Happy New Year! Cheers to a fabulous 2016. We had a really nice and long winter break. The kids enjoyed some down time and it was nice to be without a schedule for a bit (but it was definitely nice this past Monday to get back on track). My Dad (big George) was with us for a week and we hosted Christmas Day with him and my sister and her crew. 

I'm heading out later this afternoon to meet up w/ PFC downtown. We're meeting at Au Cheval for a burger and then heading to a movie = perfect birthday celebration (that I share w/ Elvis!). Au Cheval has been on my list for awhile now. Everywhere I turn I read about their burgers - can't wait! Why people wait for hours for Au Cheval's cheeseburger! VERY excited to check it out because come Monday I'm starting a 30 day cleanse - the 30 Clean. Please send any great recipes my way. I know some of you are doing a clean too! 

And lastly, I wanted to share that I'm starting a new endeavor that I'm super excited about. I just signed on as a consultant for Beautycounter. Their mission is to get safe products into the hands of everyone. I was absolutely shocked to learn that the US has not passed a federal law to regulate the ingredients used in personal care products since 1938. And to date, Europe has banned 1,300 ingredients, the US has only banned 11. I'm alarmed that personal care companies are allowed to use known toxins - ingredients linked to cancer, reproductive issues, hormone disruption - without telling us. At Beautycounter, they have banned more than 1,500 ingredients setting a new health and safety standard - all while ensuring their products perform, and that they're as indulgent as any luxe shampoo, lipstick or oil in the market. Check out this compelling video. It will definitely make you think more about the products you are using. And feel free to contact me for more information.

Have a wonderful weekend!

XO - D2

Some of my latest faves:

• PFC and I saw the movie Joy the other day. Here's a little more about the real Joy, the inspiration behind the movie and here. 
• I read the following books over break = Three Wishes by Liane Moriarty and Judy Blume's In the Unlikely Event. And I just started Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff. 
• And speaking of books I'm very anxious to read Joanna Goddard's brother in law's book, When Breath Becomes Air. Click here for a review. I've followed and read his essays (How Long Have I Got and Before I Go)  via A Cup of Jo. I've referenced his essays many times. And here is Joanna's sister piece, My Marriage Didn't End When I became a Widow. 
• Are Jennifer Garner and Patrick Dempsey secretly dating?! 
• These are the cutest pics of Prince George at his nursery school. What a doll! 
• Hilarious = pics of a hot doctor and his husky are everywhere! Not sure who is more cute! 
• Great little bit on the Sportsperson of the Year = Serena Williams. 
• These herbed goat cheese sandwiches by Ina Garten were a hit at my sister's holiday party. 
• LOVE the new sweaters that Everlane just came out w/! LOVE the waffle knit tunic. 
• Both C + M's birthdays are coming up. All 3 of the Carr gals in our family have birthdays in January. Busy month! We are sticking to our tradition of making homemade cakes for birthdays (we started on G$'s 4th birthday). This double layer chocolate cake looks amazing. 
• Since joining Beautycounter I'm slowly overhauling my makeup bag and skin care products. Some of my faves thus far = Lustro Face Oil #2, Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer (replaced my beloved Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer), Lip Gloss (in buff), Color Shade Eye Duo (in Pearl/Champagne). 
• Excited to try this Best Ever Beef Stew. Not sure if it fits the bill of the 30 day clean though. 
• A couple of great pieces on sale at Zara: menswear coat, printed flounce dress, can combined top w/ zipped back. 
• Okay, everyone seems OBSESSED w/ Netflix's 'Making a Murderer' documentary crime series. Has anyone been watching it? Maybe it will fill the hole PFC and I have on Sunday evenings now that The Affair and Homeland are done for the season.