Calling all BFFs!

Can’t figure out what to get your other half for her birthday, special occasion, bad break-up, or just to remind her of how truly amazing she is?  Why not invest in a friendship necklace- what’s old is new…right?  My dearest grade-school treasures were often necklaces resembling half of a heart, deeming me someone’s “BFF”.  In elementary school these Claire accessories were traded as often as beanie babies, so in honor of the gal-pals who have stuck by your side all these years, why not treat them with a modernized version of the friendship necklace.  Dogeared offers such an extensive variety you are sure to find a piece that is as unique as your friendship.  So in keeping in theme with childhood memories I leave you with a quote from an old favorite movie.

“You only meet your once in a lifetime friend... once in a lifetime” – Little Rascals

My Favorite Things

“Rain drops on roses and whiskers on kittens, pumpkin spice lattes and warm cashmere mittens”.  Julie Andrews sang it best and watching Maria turn drapes into clothes for all the children quickly became my favorite scene in the classic movie "The Sound of Music".  Growing up I changed my mind about my personal favorite things as often as I changed my clothes (which I assure you was very often), but upon entering the world of professionalism I am confident in my announcement of this list of favorites I am sure to never pass up.  In no particular order…

 Red Red Wine by Bob Marley- sure to cure the saddest of any mood

The Office- If I could marry a cast of people this would be it, I’m not even embarrassed that I crack up alone when I watch it

Vanilla Frozen Yogurt with Rainbow Sprinkles and Gummy Bears- call me 5 years old but I cannot resist this childhood “delicacy”.  Amelia’s parents, a dear friend from forever ago who I will never forget, used to always take us to a TCBY near our houses and this was always our treat of choice.

Boating in the summer- need I say more? 

Having the leisure to explore a city- discovering and getting to know your surroundings inside and out is truly a blessing.  Upon recently graduating and moving to Naperville I have been presented with this challenge.  Also, my new job allows me to travel all over the country; I cannot wait to find my favorite local places to eat and shop in cities such as Nashville, Lexington, and St. Louis.

A Cat Nap- the most sure-fire way for quick rejuvenation.  Although I am a very light sleeper and it takes me a while to fall asleep, I have found there is nothing more refreshing than snuggling under the blankets on a chilly fall afternoon to catch a few Z’s.

Barbeques- What a perfect way to bring together old friends (or new) and enjoy a beautiful day and delicious food.  My personal favorites include pasta salad, fresh strawberries, grilled chicken and peppers, Linda’s Potatoes, and brownie trifle for dessert… yum!

Indian Summers

This weekend my whole family is enjoying one last hurrah under the sun of this amazing indian summer.  Unfortuantely, I am at home feeling under the weather, forcing me to miss out on good ol' family QT, most likely my last chance at a bronze “goddess-like” tan, and of course an overdose of amazing food (which too often results in a food-baby).  These cool nights and steamy days have caused somewhat of a wardrobe overload in my life.  Mother Nature’s fickle attitude about the temperature serves as a constant reminder to invest in pieces that will transition seamlessly from one season to the next.  So be sure to always, dress with the ability to shed layers, dress for the season (it's too late for flip flips and too early for Uggs), and above all dress for yourself.

22 and still Cheering

Fall never fails to remind me of football and my high school “glory” days of being on the cheerleading squad when I used to wave my pom poms high in the air as our team scored the winning touchdown.  This season I have been blessed with a new set of pom-poms (no, not that kind), and have even more of a reason to cheer, jump, and maybe do a flip.  Several pieces in Thakoon’s fall line have, yes, pom-poms!  This extra amount of spunk and detail make these Thakoon pieces feel truly one of a kind.  So while I may have put my megaphone down and my uniform away, I couldn’t be happier to see this part of my past make a come-back.

Thakoon Patchwork Dress with Pom Pom Trim: $1,260

Thakoon Pom Pom Panel Skirt: $1,660