Life Lately

October 13, 2014Leave a comment

It’s been a few months since I was on here, but a lot of exciting things have happened! Here are my top 3:

1. I moved to my new apartment in June and enjoy waking up to this every morning.

2. I have tried a variety of work outs to find one that suits me best aside from just a workout on my own to barre classes and I recently discovered why people love yoga. I also purchased a fitbit, which has become my new obsession because I am always looking for ways to hit my 10,000 steps.

3. Fall in the city are much different from the summer, but I have enjoyed visiting the farmers market near me on Saturday mornings, where I recently saw a turtle crossing the sidewalk. I think it escaped from the zoo. After the farmers market though, I have enough time to get ready to cheer on the Irish, whether from afar on TV or at the stadium in South Bend. (Aside – the Irish had a great win on Saturday against North Carolina!)

New Series: Currently Reading

February 18, 2014Leave a comment

I’m starting a new series for all of those that like to read and are looking for a new book.

I love to read and I especially love quickly getting absorbed into a good book. My friends and I are starting a book club and this is the first on our list.

I couldn’t put this one down and read it over the course of 4 days (lunch breaks, before bed, right after work).

It definitely catches you off guard and you can’t believe how the characters are involved with each other.

Check it out!

What I’m Loving Right Now (Food Edition)

January 31, 2014Leave a comment

1. Au Cheval – part of Hog Salt (i.e. Publican, Gilt Bar, etc.) this place really does serve the best burger in Chicago. They don’t take reservations, but we went at 5:30 on a Sunday night and sat down pretty quickly. Their burger is out of this world with caramelized onions and we added bacon (you must do it) you’ll never go back to another place for a burger. I don’t think I’ll ever look at a burger the same way again.

2. This recipe from Ina Garten for mussels in white wine, but I put my own spin on it. Instead of cooking the onions and garlic in olive oil and butter. Cook 2 ¼" diced slices of pancetta first and use their flavorings. Remove before putting in the onions and add it back in with the rest of the ingredients before the mussels. Also add ½ cup of heavy cream with the pancetta and this makes for a meal in itself. (And everything is better with heavy cream!)

3. Superbowl Appetizers – the best part of Superbowl Sunday – in my world at least – is the food. We are attending a friend’s party this weekend and I can’t wait for the appetizers. I will be making these mini pigs in a blanket c/o Martha Stewart.

Have a great weekend!

Life Lately

January 17, 2014Leave a comment

I know it’s been a while since I’ve been on here, but here is a catch up of everything that has been going on since Christmas.

This past week I was in Vegas for a business event. Here are the gorgeous fountains at the Bellagio.

In my rush to pack I forgot the dress I was going to wear for the second day and was “forced” to go shopping. (not complaining about that!) I ended up finding these amazing black pants at the Gap and for $60 (now on sale for $35.97) you really can’t beat it. They fit great, are a good length (I’m 5’ 6" and they were perfect with a 2" heel) and are super comfortable. I’m all about comfort, especially for a long day at a show.

Tonight, after waiting 3 months, we are going back to Girl and the Goat! I can’t get enough and it is definitely worth the wait! Call in advance and take any date you can get!

Happy New Year! Cheers to 2014!

My Favorites – Workout Wear

November 27, 2013Leave a comment

With Thanksgiving and the holidays coming up, I can’t stop thinking about how much I’m going to eat over the next month, which is why I regularly workout and try to combat my cravings for mac and cheese and all things carbs.

I workout with a trainer, but I also do exercises from my friend’s website meltopia.com. She’s a corporate trainer and posts workouts that keep you going, including matching playlists. Justin Timberlake stairmaster anyone?

When I workout, wearing clothes that make me feel good help me to keep motivation. Here are some of my favorites.

Lululemon Wunder Unders

photo: lululemon.com

Nike Free Run Shoes

Photo: nike.com

Sports Bra

Lucy – Double Time Workout Bra

Tank Top

Swiftly Tech Racerback

Photo: lululemon.com

What keeps you going?

November 27, 2013Leave a comment

When Your Favorite Bag Sells Out

For the past few weeks I have been lusting over the smaller version of this Coach bag. When I was almost ready to purchase it this past week, it magically disappeared from the website and I haven’t been able to find it since.

There is nothing worse than the bag of your dreams selling out.

This is when people tell you it wasn’t meant to be…but you know it’s just a way to make you feel better. (I think they’re lying)

Coach – please make more!

Update: I received the amazing bag for Christmas and could not be happier!

Apple Picking

November 3, 2013Leave a comment

A few weeks ago I went apple picking with some friends and my bf. With all of the apples we picked, there was no way I could eat them all before they spoiled, so I made a pie.

My favorite Food Network chef is Ina Garten, so naturally I used her recipes to make the apple pie and pastry. You can find them here.

This pie had the perfect amount of sweetness that was brightened by the acid from the lemon and orange juice and zest. Next time you have an abundance of apples, make this pie.

October 28, 2013November 21, 2016Leave a comment

(via fuckyeahmacarons)

I have a ridiculous obsession with French macarons. If I ever see them at a bakery/restaurant/walking down the street, I have to stop and buy some.

This past Saturday I had some from a bakery that were amazing. Lemon, pistachio, raspberry, chocolate and mocha were included in my sampler and they were perfect.

If you ever see them in Chicago let me know where I can find them!

October 24, 2013November 21, 2016Leave a comment