to market to market...

It is Farmer's Market season everyone! This is the time of year to get local produce, meats and artisan goods directly from the people who produce them. I love everything about Farmer's Markets, fresh air, the fresh produce, the fresh flowers. I'm excited to start visiting them every week this summer so in the next few days I've got to stock up on the essentials. An easy dress, strappy flats, colorful sunnies and the perfect market tote.

For an easy dress I'm looking for something like a shirt dress or a shift in a lightweight cotton. The shape, the fabric and the pockets in the Viet Dress from Emerson Fry make it the perfect piece for market visits. Since you need to carry your goods home I try to take just a wristlet or coin purse so being able to slip that into one of the dress pockets is ideal. I don't see the point in trying to teeter around the market in anything besides flat sandals like the Won't Stop from Seychelles Footwear. If it is muddy I'll wear an old pair of Toms to help protect my pedicure!

I'm also trying to take better care of my skin so all summer long, not just at the market, I'll be covering my face with floppy hats and visors. To protect my arms and legs I'll be using a few spritzes of Clarins Sun Care Oil Spray on the way out the door. I'll also be wearing sunglasses all the time. I honestly couldn't decide between the Ray-Ban Wayfayer Liteforce in Violet, the Ray-Ban Rare Prints in Green or the stunning Dolce & Gabbana Mosaico Collection with Murano glass on the temples. You can take your pick, or just get all three.

I would keep jewelry focused to one area and either stack a bunch of bracelets and bangles (the ones pictured are from baublebar and kate spade), layer 3 or 4 long necklaces or pile on the midi rings so you don't overpower the effect of the simple dress and shoes or draw attention from your beautiful bounty.

Speaking of, stash your fresh produce and blooms in the BYAMT Leather Strap Tote Bag. The liner is cotton, and removable, so you can just toss it in the wash with your dishtowels between trips.

Do you have a favorite Farmer's Market? The one in Daley Plaza on Thursdays is always nice and it is a treat to go to the Green City Market on Saturdays in Lincoln Park. I'm excited for the Farmer's Market to dictate what I make for lunch and dinner (the meals will almost always be posted on instagram if I don't post them as a recipe here!)

Opening Day Style

Baseball season is here! Nothing is more fun than a beer and a dog at the game. And, since this is the year of the Polar Vortex, you'll need your October Baseball gear ready to go.

We attended a Brewers v Royals exhibition game last weekend and Miller Park, thankfully, closed the roof so we were very comfortable as we watched the game. On Monday, we went to cheer on the St. Louis Cardinals on their Opening Day. But, Busch Stadium doesn't have the luxury of a roof so I'll be sporting a sweatshirt with adorable stitching on the edges... it's a baseball seam!

You might be asking yourself how I became a STL Cardinals fan. Well, while I was growing up in Milwaukee the Brewers were only so so and baseball games to me meant tailgating and red vines once we were inside! When Danny and I began dating in the fall of 2006, he realized I didn't have much of an affiliation with the Brewers so he began the process of recruiting me to Cardinal nation. It wasn't too difficult, since that fall the Cardinals won the World Series but there were bumps in the road.

In May of 2007 I attended my first Cardinals game. I didn't have any gear so I just wore red but I wanted to make my new team official! I was picking out tees in the little boys section when I asked if "Pujols" was any good.

Not only was he like the best player on the team at the time, the J is a soft one, not a hard one like in the word Judge. I think I've since been forgiven but I still get poked fun at for my faux pas.

Since then I've gone to many games and have been to several ballparks throughout the US. Miller Park in Milwaukee, Busch Stadium in St. Louis, Fenway, Wrigley, the Cell/SOX park, the Great American Ballpark in Cincinnati and Jacobs Field in Cleveland. I'm not sure that I want to make it a goal to visit every single one but it is fun to spend the afternoon in a new city in a new stadium.

Baseball season means that spring and summer are on their way and although I don't love watching baseball on TV, going to the ballpark for a game is the epitome of summer. The sights, sounds and smells of baseball can't be beat.

Reader Survey Results!

I am so glad that I conducted the Reader Survey... but moreover, I am ecstatic with the results!! Thanks a million to those that replied. I've put the details into an infographic below. 

Whaddya think? I am pretty excited by the feedback. My favorite part was reading the 2 words to describe Color Me Styled. I didn't realize until after I created the wordcloud (on wordle.net) that "fun" is really how I want this blog to be described! Writing and creating for Color Me Styled has always been fun and I am so happy that it translates to the content. 

The site redesign is underway. I'm working to update and reformat several of the posts in the new layout. The categories have been streamlined and I will have a "Color Me Styled Guide" post ready to go to show you around the new site. I've also been planning my editorial calendar for April and I'm very excited for the content that is coming up. And, the first weekend of April I am headed to Go Blog Social with Kit and I know I'll be inspired and come up with even more ideas and more to share with you!

Any other feedback for me?

Color Me Styled 2014 Reader Survey

Hello my wonderful readers! As March rolls in it is a time of transition and change.  Spring brings with it longer days, fresh blooms, and warmer weather.  In this time of growth I want to get input directly from you!

I am conducting a reader survey over the next few weeks.  I'd love your honest opinions on Color Me Styled to help me bring the best content to you each week!

The survey is short (23 questions), mostly multiple choice, and it covers how you found Color Me Styled, how you read the content, what you like, or don't, about the design of the site, and some demographic info to help me understand a bit about who you are.

I am on the verge of redesigning the site, moving it to Wordpress.Org to give me more flexibility with the design and layout and to add functionality that Blogger doesn't support.  Your input will directly impact the redesign.

It will also be good to learn more about how you read the posts.  Knowing if most of you visit the site directly, or get e-mailed new posts, or subscribe through a reader may change the layout of posts. 

Just grab a fresh cup of coffee and complete the survey for me!  I'm using Google Forms to gather responses so you'll have to click over to a new tab to take the survey. 

Color Me Styled // 2014 Reader Survey

If you have any questions, feel free to e-mail me at colormestyled [at] gmail [dot] com. 

image via a pair of pears

Who What Wear // 30 Day Outfit Challenge

Spring is coming. It just has to be coming. Right? Yes, Spring will be here soon. In the meantime Sara of Project Soiree and I are taking a fresh look at our wardrobes with the Who What Wear 30 Day Outfit Challenge.

The challenge helps you to see what you already own in a new light and provides guidance for mixing it up! I'm a week in, and already I've gotten to wear bright color combos, a big comfy sweater, and I've donned a boyish look for a day around the city.

Every day I'm uploading a picture of the outfit to What R U Wearing, instagram, and Daily E including shopping links for you to add similar pieces to your wardrobe! And, maybe at the end of the challenge I'll put all of my pictures into a collage for you to check out!

In the top/title picture (taken by Blair, other two by Danny) I am mixing textures... sort of.  I figured the cable knit sweater, chambray, polka dots, and leopard print flats combo is mixing textures and patterns!  The other two pictures are for my boyish look.  I have to admit that Danny helped a lot with that one, I borrowed his watch!  And, even though we both are St. Louis Cardinal Fans, he agreed that the grey Boston hat went with the outfit better.  (What a guy right?)  And he also helped with yesterday's "wear a piece you've been saving" by pointing out that I hadn't worn my army blazer in a while!! 

Shop the items from the first week of looks below!

Be Mine // Valentine's Guide for Everyone

Valentine's Day is quickly approaching and so I have resourced the wit and wisdom of Melanie Wagner, a certified sommelier and author of Hello, Wine, to produce a date night guide.  To round out Melanie's suggestions, I've pulled together gift ideas from Gilt, Vineyard Vines, Urban Outfitters, and more!

I love February. It’s a month brimming with promise and possibility, but without any real sense of urgency. Sure you can dream about all the amazing things you’re going to accomplish this year, but by all means, do it snuggled up by a crackling fire, under a cozy blanket. It’s winter, you’re validated. February is also a month synonymous with Valentine’s Day—an entire holiday devoted to loving those around you. No matter if that love is directed to your spouse, your kids, your pet, or your best girlfriends, love rocks. It’s why we’re here, and it makes life worth living, which is something to celebrate. And speaking of celebration, this is a perfect month for drinking robust red and gorgeous winter white wines. Below you’ll find some delicious recommendations, no matter your plans. Take my advice and treat yourself to something lovely this V-Day. I’m certain I’m biased, but I firmly believe that the only thing better than love in the air, is love in your wine glass too.

THE FIRST

Your first Valentine’s Day together is bound to feel blissful, but make sure you send the right message with your wine. If you’re dating Mr. Right, take the time to figure out what he likes and go with that.  

If he normally reaches for cabernet or zindandel from California, or he’s a Whisky, Bourbon or rum drinker, he likes luscious, rich wines dripping with ripe fruit flavor. Try Elyse Morisoli Vineyard zinfandel ($32) Chances are he hasn’t yet discovered this Napa gem, but he’ll adore the taste of succulent black cherries and its haunting floral and smoke aromas.

If he’s into Italy, pick up a bottle of Monsanto Chianti Classico Riserva ($19) from Tuscany. It has a beautiful balance of dusty earth and bright red fruit flavors. It’s a terrific wine to pair with spaghetti and meatballs from scratch (hint, hint).

If beer is his thing, especially the hop-laden kind, buy a hard-to-get-your-hands-on pinot noir, like the 2011 Bethel Heights Estate pinot noir ($28) from the Willamette Valley in Oregon. It’s got a cult-like following reminiscent of some of those micro brews and its gorgeous nose of bright cherry, ginger, and black tea will pique his olfactory interest.

// gifts for your first Valentine's, but not last //

1. Libratone Live Speaker + an iTunes Gift Card // 2. Love You Collar Stays + a new dress shirt // 3. Beer Glass Set + a 6 pack of his favorite
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If the man in your life seems more like Mr. Right now, and you’re iffy about life together post the 14^th, don’t worry about spending big bucks on a really special bottle to please his palate. Go with something cheap and cheeky, like the fun new line of red wines from Napa’s Swanson Vineyards. “With Love”, “Expensive Wine” and “Here’s to You” are all available at Target for $12.99. They are tasty little wines and with little commitment.

// gift for this Valentine's, but not next //

Arlie Babydoll from Anthropologie (it's mostly for you) // Exotic Driving Experience from Gilt City
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TEN YEARS IN

A decade of love (and all the accompanying emotions) is a major milestone. Be joyful! There’s no better way than with bubbles. Champagne and other sparkling wines are refreshing, extremely food friendly, and instantly put everybody in a romantic mood. For true Champagne, from Champagne France, look for an entry level wine from a grower-producer (a farmer who sells his own wine), as opposed to the big brands. The little guys generally produce a much higher quality product for the same price. A splurge-worthy example is Egly-Ouriet Brut NV ($69). You’ll drool over its aromas of lemon tart, hazelnut, and chalk. And its teeny tiny bubbles with leave you feeling elegant and sophisticated. If that’s a bit too splurgy, try Bouillot Cremant d’Bourgogne NV rose ($19). It offers the grace and beauty of the real deal, for a fraction of the price.

// love is in the little things //

1. Hershel Supply Novel Duffle + the promise to take a trip this year! // 2. John Robshaw, Nurpur, Limited Edition Blockprint + the promise of an afternoon at the theatre from Gilt City // 3. Kate Spade New York Cobble Hill Lacey Wallet or similar from GILT // 4. True Love card from Urban Outfitters
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CAT WINE

If this year the holiday means you and your beloved feline at home with your Netflix queue, do not despair. Chick flicks and wine are dangerously delicious together! And if you’re drinking alone, better make it something worth drinking. One luscious, chocolaty red powerhouse that will hold up well in the bottle for a few days if you happen to have leftovers is Daou cabernet sauvignon from Paso Robles, CA ($23). Buy yourself some high quality dark chocolate (I love xoxo dark/almonds/sea salt bar!) and indulge.

// furry friends & netflix //

Burgundy Fair Isle Socks from Free People + Grooming Service for Fluffy from Gilt City

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LADIES NIGHT

You love your best girlfriends, and they love wine. Who needs a penis when you have pinot! Here are some gorgeous, feminine wines perfect for sharing with a crowd, and lots of yummy take-out.

• St. Innocent “Village Cuvee” pinot noir ($22) + sausage and balsamic caramelized onion pizza (I recommend Homemade Pizza Company)
• Roederer Estate Anderson Valley Brut NV ($18) + sushi (I recommend Coast)
• Domaine Weinbach Gewurztraminer Reserve Personelle ($27) + Kung pao, chicken lad nar, and crispy veggie eggrolls (I recommend Penny's)

// ladies night //

t&j Designs credit from Gilt City

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What are your plans for Valentine's Day?  I'm pinning some of my favorite Valentine's crafts and gift ideas on Pinterest so follow-me for more inspiration!  You can ask Melanie for more advice by visiting her site http://melaniewagnerwine.com/ or following her on Twitter at @mwagnerwine

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Notes for this post:
- The wines (and pricing) are from Binny’s, except for Swanson’s Modern House Wine label, which is exclusive to Target. 
- Some product choices for gifts were suggested by the representatives of the brands or PR Agencies
- The kitten image is via pinterest, the wine images were all via a Google Image search, some product images were provided, some are via the site they are sold on and some found via Google Image search

Outfit with a View + A GIVEAWAY!!!

I shared a couple of our group shots when I announced the Windy City Blogger Collective last week and I've been a bit busy so I figured it would be fun to detail my outfit a bit more for you all.  And, I've got an exciting What R U Wearing giveaway to announce!

Blog Gal // Julie Leah - a Life & Style Blog

Julie Leah - Blog Gal Feature

Another New Series for the blog today!  Every month I'm going to introduce you to another blogger that I admire and can't get enough from.  I am constantly inspired by my fellow bloggers and I want to share the ones I've found to be tops.  There are so many more out there and it is tough to narrow down but i'll do my best.

For the first feature I'm stepping outside of my Chicago crowd (gasp) and heading all the way to Virginia!  I would like to introduce you to Julie Leah.  She writes a Life & Style blog and I adore the classic, girly, and sophisticated content she produces.  

New Year = Renewed Intentions

image via Pinterest

Last year I made some resolutions that I checked-in on each month.  This year, I'm approaching the next 364 days and beyond not with resolutions but with Intentions.  

Jess Lively, a business lady and blogger here in Chicago, is all about living with intention and I've taken inspiration from her.  This year I'm setting intentions that will guide my day-to-day decisions.  Intentions are not meant to be measurable but instead, guidelines for living that are demonstrated by actions.  

When I really boil it down I have two main intentions.  One focused on health and wellness and another related to my work both professionally and with the blogs.

Health and Wellness:
Be a role model to my family by eating clean and being active.

Danny and I both have agreed that we feel much better when we make our own food at home using a wide variety of whole ingredients.  We both enjoy cooking at home and trying new recipes.  It will be learning process and we won't be perfect (aka we won't be nutzo people about it either).  But I am looking forward to making a healthy diet part of my daily routine.

Secondly, for Christmas I got a Fitbit wearable fitness tracker and it has been interesting to wear for a few weeks now (Danny and I opened ours early).  The only days that I've been able to meet my step count is if I walk to work.  In the spring, summer, and fall that isn't as much of an issue but when it is A Degree, as in 1 degree) outside I must admit walking 45 minutes to work isn't really rewarding.  To promote daily activity we got Fitbits for our family members too.  It will be fun to see us all be more active and to build that extra movement into our routines!

Work and Writing:
To produce content and do work that reflects my creativity and my dedication to making things better.

When I think about my professional ambitions and what will bring me the most fulfillment I am consistently drawn to the notion of making things better.  Better can mean making tasks more efficient and easier, or building and contributing to make a project or a post better for my readers or my clients.  Creativity comes naturally and is very helpful when trying to improve the work I do.  I think this intention is flexible enough to apply to most professional roles I can take on but it also applies to blogging.  

These two intentions will influence how I approach each day and I believe they will help to foster success.  Each has some elements that could be molded into resolutions and specific goals but I'm going to try and table the urge to measure my success.  

So what are some of your resolutions this year?  Could any of them be formed into intentions?  Do you like that intentions are not specific and measurable?  Let me know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter. 

Color Me Styled - Resolution Check In #12

image via The Glitter Guide



Well the last day of 2013 is upon us!  I hope you are getting ready for a fabulous party tonight and a low-key day tomorrow.  We're excited to host a dozen of our friends for lots of appetizers, lots of cocktails, and lots of fun and maybe we'll pay attention to the clock!

For the last 12 months I've checked in on my New Year's Resolutions.  Sometimes reporting success, sometimes not, but I wrote a post every month no matter how I fared.  December was more of the same, I gained weight over the last 2 weeks but we stuck to our Christmas gift budget and we didn't go too far over our Christmas extras budget. 

I did the post for Smitten Boutique and worked closely with Kirstin and Erin there to get the product lists and photographs all set up.  I'm continuing to work closely with the girls involved in the Windy City Blogger Collective and we're going to have a big launch in January.  I'm working on my personal branding to help align both blogs with each other so you'll see a few enhancements here and on Daily E.  I've got some fresh ideas for content here on Color Me Styled next year (aka Thursday)... an ingredient of the month club, weekly links, blogger features, and of course more recipes, craft projects, and style posts!

I'm continuing to learn more about myself and how I work and what type of job will be the best for me.  Best meaning fulfilling and plays to my natural skill set with room to grow.  In 2013 I took a big step forward by moving back into the Non-Profit Sector and as I continue to learn and grow in my current role we'll see what opportunities present themselves!

I think I'm going to keep my mini resolutions into next year!  I have been better this month about my dresser top, I got bangs halfway through the month so I have had to do something with my hair everyday... but I still wear a lot of topknots.  My face is washed most days but I'm still not doing it daily. 

That'll do it for 2013!!  I'm finalizing my intentions and resolutions for 2014 and will share them on Thursday. 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Color Me Styled - Boxing Day

 

 

Happy Boxing Day everyone! Hopefully you are all still able to share today with family and friends and continue your Christmas celebrations. 

 

To show off a couple of my gifts from Christmas here's a snippet outfit post!

 

Chambray Shirt from J.Crew | Grey Cable Knit Sweater from GAP | Stadium Coat from J.Crew | Tortoise and Stone Necklace from Milk and Honey



 

Now it is time to focus on New Year's Eve!!



Color Me Styled - Twas the Week Before Christmas

Guess what friends, in a week, Christmas will be over!  I can't believe it either.  I've got a weekend full of wrapping and baking and general Christmas wonderment and I only have one person left on my list to shop for.  I think...

If you have a sinking feeling that you've forgotten someone even though you've checked your list at least twice there is a solution.  Smitten Boutique on Madison Street in the West Loop has perfect gifts for everyone you've neglected to remember!
First scenario: you're packing up for your trip back home and start to think about the friends you'll have time to see because you'll be home for a whole week.  You haven't seen your BFF from high school in ages and as you begin to recall facebook posts of hers over the last few months you realize something... she's got a baby now.  

As you try to come to terms with this you can rest easy and know that with a quick visit to Smitten you'll be all set.  You can choose from an array of adorable outfits like this tank and tutu set ($56) or the suspender onsie ($26) but if you want to discourage pictures on your newsfeed give consideration to the hippo or puppy book ($12.50 ea) and stuffed animals that go along with it ($20-$23).

Alternately, if your friend, cousin, coworker is expecting a Cassie*Lu blanket is the perfect way to give and give back at the same time.  Founded by a Mother and Daughter team, Cassie*Lu has partnered with Kopila Valley School in Surkhet, Nepal.  Every blanket purchase ($62) helps to send a child to school for an entire year including essential supplies like a backpack, uniform, books and supplies, and a hot meal every day and medical and dental care.  It is an amazing way to give a beautiful gift and contribute to the education of a child in need.

Second Scenario: Now that you've gotten a gift for your new Mom friend your mind wanders to the good times you two used to have playing at your grandparent's house after school.  Ugh oh, grandparents... your sister always manages to get a gift for your grandpa that is just perfect and your box of candies and word-a-day calendar can never measure up.

Smitten has a range of gifts that are perfect for Grandpas, Uncles, and Dads.  These Autobiographical books start at $12.95 and are filled with questions to help prompt the author to spark creativity.  They're a delightful gift for the man in your life, especially the ones who love to tell stories.  But, they say, a picture is worth one thousand words.  A silk tie picture frame ($25) will provide a place for him to display his most treasured moments.

If Dad/Uncle/Grandpa would rather spend his time on the golf course or at the ball park you can give him a piece of sporting history to help him pass the time in between rounds. Tokens & Icons has a wide variety of sport related items that make unique and thoughtful gifts.  Cuff links made from stadium chairs, bottle openers made from bats ($85) or old clubs ($75), and pens featuring some of history's greatest ball parks.

Scenario Three: Okay, you're glad you stopped in and grabbed gifts for the last two that were on your mind but not on your list.  But were they really the last two?  Rack your brain... there's gotta be someone else.  Then it dawns on you.  Your Mom had mentioned that she'd love a new bulletin board for the desk in the kitchen so she can keep track of all her lists.  Smitten Boutique carries a line of Magnetic Art Boards by Mikey Lin's.  These boards range in size from 12x12 ($45) to 30x40 ($225) and come with customize-able backgrounds.  Everything from chevron, to quotes about family, to the notebook page below.  

Scenario Four: PHEW!  So many great gifts that are unique and thoughtful and all from one store.  Before you go you should take a look around at all the adorable displays.  You're likely to find the perfect reward for yourself and your savvy shopping!

If baubles are your thing you can reach for these Emmy earrings in Raspberry or the Ella Kate bracelet in gold ($36 each) by Towne & Reese.  The sequin string necklace by Michelle Rubin ($70) would make the perfect addition to your everyday accessories.  Or if you want to show your tree a little love the Thomas Glenn ornament ($34) is a glittery and girly bulb that will shine bright next to your childhood soccer figure ornament.

You certainly don't have to reward yourself, these gifts are perfect for a sister, coworker, or cousin too.  But if you're responsible for any dishes at the Christmas feast you'll want to pick up a copy of Stephanie Izard's Girl in the Kitchen cookbook. Smitten is selling them with some of her sauces and marinades as well so this really is a no-brainer.

If you've got fellow Chicago-phile friends these porcelain coasters ($45) are a fantastic gift.  Pair them with a bottle of wine as you make your way over for New Year's Eve and ring in 2014 by learning something new about our fantastic city!


Smitten Boutique | 1047 W. Madison Street, Chicago, IL 60607
http://smittenboutique.com

I'd like to thank Smitten owner, Kirstin Martin and her team, Erin and Chelsea, who helped direct me towards these lovely gifts, restored the displays after I poked around and for their willingness to work with me on this post.  If you're in town tonight, come visit the shop, get your last minute gifts, and see me... I'll be there for a Wine Tasting event and will likely snatch up many of these last minute items just because... so come and get them while you can!

Color Me Styled - Riding on the Edge



I remember wanting to learn how to ride horses when I was younger but really, as I reflect on it now, it was more about the fashion.

Color Me Styled - All I Want for Christmas

Every year around October I begin to think of what to get others for Christmas.  Our families are big on lists but I always try to find something "off-list" to give.

Since most of my gift list ideas will include some of those surprises I'm hesitant to share what I'd recommend you get for your friends and family.  So, I've decided to share my Christmas wishlist!

Color Me Styled - Resolution Check in #11

Well November has now come and gone and it was a long but a quick month.  Although Halloween does feel like ages ago. 

It is time to check in on my 2013 Resolutions even though 2013 is nearing an end. 

My first resolution for 2013 was to lose weight.  I had some good success in November and it was a direct result of working out and a better diet (hashtag, go figure).  On Thanksgiving, instead of just waking up and starting to eat and drink we ran a 5k and I finished under 40 minutes!  It is a great baseline for the 10 mile race I've signed up for in May!

The second resolution is to get a hold on household finances and we did well in November.  Christmas is always a tempting time so it is going to take discipline and control to close out the year well.

My third resolution was to be more professional about blogging and to engage in near-shameless self promotion.  In November I co-hosted another happy hour, hosted a DIY night at Langford Market, and am part of the team which has founded the Windy City Blogger Collective.  I've been better about writing posts ahead of time but I'm not scheduling content as far ahead as I'd like to be.  But I am proud of the content I am putting up and I hope you like it too!

My final resolution is career driven and I made a lot of progress over the course of 2013, and especially in the last 2 months to learn more about what my best skills are and which roles will be best suited for me in the future.  

My mini resolutions are probably in the need of the most attention.  My dresser top is a mess which means I haven't gotten back to "set" in a while, I've been good about washing my face but not perfect, but my hair has definitely gone into a bun more than it has been dried. With just one more month to go in 2013, I have already started to think about 2014 and what my resolutions will be!

Holiday Cocktail Image via Pinterest

Color Me Styled - Thanksgiving Styles + Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to Melaney Ann!! You are the lucky lady taking home the hand painted wine glasses and set of wine glass tags!

As I've gotten older I've learned that families celebrate Thanksgiving in many ways!  At first you'd think there's not much that could be done differently.  Everyone has turkey, stuffing, and potatoes but there are plenty of elements that vary!  The Macy's Parade, football, board games, naps, and Turkey Trots are just a few of the options.

Color Me Styled - Resolution Check-in #10

image via Pinterest



 
So, I've been super duper busy at work and the social calendar hasn't been light either.  Not that I'm complaining but it means I didn't have time to be as thoughtful about my Check-In as usual.
 
Which is fine, I wasn't very thoughtful of my resolutions over the last month either.
 
Instead of dwelling on how I didn't make much progress at all in October, I'm looking ahead to November.  I've already completed two actual workouts in the first 5 days, I haven't spent a dime on anything except for food (and drink), and I cleaned out my drawers while watching Hart of Dixie on Netflix.  There's one bag of clothes to go to GoodWill and I plan to tackle the accessories section of my dresser this month too. 
 
I'm excited for my DIY Night with Langford Market Diversey next week!  Have you RSVPed yet? You should: Facebook Event Details Here

I hope your Novembers have all started out well!  I love this time of year... even the cold weather!

Color Me Styled - Picnic Like an Urbaness

Well now the weather has turned chilly but there's always hope of another weekend with 50 degree temps, right?  Even if it doesn't, we can pretend you came along with me on a picnic in Millennium Park with The Urbaness.

Color Me Styled - Boot Fit Guide



During my lunch hour yesterday I was browsing Gilt and came upon their boot sale.  Since I have been looking for boots right and left I was excited to find exactly what I was looking for.

Color Me Styled - Layers, and Blocking, and Boots! Oh my!

Usually I have to put a fair amount of thought into outfits.  But, this one came so naturally I can't explain it.