Weekend Reading 3.28.2020

And all of a sudden it's the weekend. How are you holding up? We're on stay-at-home orders here, something I welcomed after seeing so many people out and about last weekend and in the weeks between (honestly I'd like to see the state take more concrete actions) – Chris and I are hanging in there, trying to limit the amount of news we're taking in to only the essentials, watching a lot of Netflix, and worrying about leaving our house. We're anxious. Like most people. It's strange to not really have the ability to think ahead right now – there are so many variables. Plans that seemed so set in stone a month ago – a trip to New York, a friend's wedding – have vaporized, replaced with a day-by-day, hour-by-hour schedule that involves a lot of cookies, wine, sleep and, again, Netflix. I've been journaling a lot, that helps. Trying to exercise (though not being super successful with it). And obsessively cleaning and organizing. I've been thinking a lot about what the after of all this will look like. What will we have learned? What will we do differently? How many people will I hug? I'll run out and get a haircut, that's for sure. And gleefully go for a run without worry or fear of breathing in someone else's air. What strange times these are – did we ever imagine ourselves here? Woof. Anyway. On the docket for this weekend? Probably a lot of the same – we've been doing a lot of organizing lately and I'd like to start putting aside things to sell once the post office is deemed a safe place to go. Tomorrow will look a lot like today, a fact I need to come to grips with. Hope you're doing ok, xoxo.

Two posts from this week: Books to read while social distancing, and how to cope with job loss

If you're looking for a more sustainable alternative to tampons and pads now that grocery trips are few and far between, check out Thinx! New customers can save $10 off their order by shopping through my page – and you can learn why I like them here

My favorite cleansing oil is back in stock! Save 15% with the code 'Julie2'

I'll limit the amount of Covid info I share because I think we've all had to take in a lot, but found these two pieces interesting and poignant: That discomfort you're feeling is grief & how the coronavirus will change us

One of my favorite Reformation dresses is on sale right now (can't wait until date nights outside the house are a thing again)

Have you heard of the National Emergency Library? Fascinating and very cool (NYT)

Like most people, I've been living in my softest clothes recently – and looking to add a few pieces to my repertoire. Take 25% off at Lou & Grey – love the colors of this supersoft tee and these wide leg pants as an alternative to leggings (also eyeing this pretty sweater and these adorable shorts)

I've been focusing on getting my skin balanced during this time of less makeup and just bought this enzyme mask after testing it out earlier in the year, I've heard nothing but good things about it. I also picked up this simple face oil and love it so far

Because I think we all need this: the 100 best movies on Netflix right now

Sorry, one more: How to stay married during a pandemic

Shopping for Spring & Weekend Links

Happy Friday! We've been treated to a little preview of spring this week in Maine and it has me feeling SO excited for warmer weather. I've been taking stock of my closet, pulling out what no longer serves me and making a list of what I'd like to add – just in time for the Shopbop Spring Event. You all know how much I love a Shopbop sale – they're the perfect time to snag that special item you've been eyeing or team up with friends and family to save on closet essentials (like these perfect cozy basics and these cheeky tees). So what's the deal?

The Shopbop Spring Event

Up to 25% off full-price styles with code SPRING

15% off orders of $200+

20% off orders of $500+

25% off orders of $800+

(sale ends March 8th at 11:59pm PT, some restrictions apply)

So good, right? I'm on the search for a pair of dainty strappy sandals to wear for spring wedding, a bright statement piece – loving that mixed floral midi dress! – and some classic '70s-inspired denim.

YUM - definitely making Celeste's collagen blueberry muffins this weekend

Will the millennial aesthetic ever end? (Do we need it to? Can we all just enjoy our spaces and stop worrying about how other people decorate their houses? I have thoughts...)

Related: when everything is "curated" - what does the word even mean?

What else on the sale front? For 24 hours Everlane is having a flash sale on their most popular pant! Love this style too in the new cocoa color (size down)

A place to leave behind your former self

How gorgeous are these new candles from PF Candle Co? This one sounds especially lovely

Finding lost fruit in Renaissance art 

OGEE is still offering 20% off sitewide! I've been using these cleansing cloths after the gym and love them for a quick skin fix

Dermatologists reveal the biggest skincare mistakes they see with patients (taking notes)

Speaking of skincare, I made the switch to this clean serum foundation this past week and LOVE IT so far – plus it contains a clean SPF! Pairing it with this priming serum. Interested in this new sunscreen for summer beach days - have you tried it?

Weekend Reading 11.08

Haaaaaapy Friday. What a week, huh? According to – seemingly – everyone and their mother, this week was a rough one. It was for me at least, so I'm very excited for a couple of days off. Tomorrow is my quiet day, I'm hoping to get to the farmers market, clean up after the week, and get some freelance work done. And on Sunday I'm off to Boston for the day to see Mary. Can't wait. Hope your weekend is fun, relaxing, hopefully both. xo

ICYMI: a few of my favorite things from October

Did you see the new Thinx + Ilana Glazer collab? So good! Remember, you can save $10 off your frist order if you shop through my profile <3 p="">
Two huge clean beauty sales happening right now: Save 20% off at Credo beauty – I'm stocking up on my favorite cleanser, this incredible vitamin C polish, and this best-selling bronzer. And save 20% off at Detox Market! I'm getting this nourishing moisturizer and this pretty highlighter.

Love these tips for making friends as an adult

This new sweater from Everlane looks so damn cozy – "cider" looks so pretty

Look at this incredible embroidery – so beautiful!

Save 40% off J.Crew for rewards members! Love this cute fair isle sweater, these plaid pants, these super rad snake print pants (!!!), and this cute sweaterdress

YUM – definitely making these brussels sprouts for Thanksgiving this year

Did you hear Gloria Steinem on NPR this week? I'm definitely picking up her new book

A quiz for the ages: which garbage animal are you?

Humility is apparently the "new" vulnerability... or just, you know, a good quality we should strive for?

Ohh these cookies look incredible!

Have you decorated yet for the holidays? I love this fun pom pom wreath and these pretty ornaments 

Weekend Reading 10.18

Happy weekend! Another week, gone in a flash, how you holding up? For whatever reason, this week was rough for me. I've been feeling a little disconnected from myself, so this weekend is about tuning back in a bit. I'm hoping to get to yoga – I haven't been in months – and finish some projects (I've very slowly been working on installing a new template for this blog and I'm dying to finish it up). We had a big wind and rainstorm this week that knocked down most of the foliage, but this weekend is calling for perfect New-England-in-October weather - can't wait!

XO


I think it's a good weekend to make cookies - 10 best chocolate chip cookie recipes

Finding a balance in love and work

Obsessed with this cool sustainable denim brand. Love them paired with a simple tee and pretty pearl accessories

I was looking for a new book to read this week and came across this one – it sounds fascinating!

Absolutely obsessed with the animal print boot trend – so much snakeskin!

Important words from the Duchess of Sussex

Guys, statement coats. I want one! I'm eyeing up this snakeskin overcoat, this plaid beauty, and this cozy faux fur number

Speaking of chocolate chip cookies: pumpkin butter chocolate chip cookies

How beautiful is this doorstop of all things? 25% off for AnthroPerks members! Love this cozy sweater too

Never knew I needed a pink blazer until now - and it's 40% off! Also pretty obsessed with this brightly stripes sweater set

These socks would be so cute with loafers for Halloween

Dreaming of this beautiful rattan furniture collection - especially this chair

These fall recipes sound perfect for a chilly weekend

How fun is this sweater/skirt set? Love how bright and happy it is!

Outfit inspiration from the children of Seoul fashion week

Weekend Links 9.27

Happy Weekend! Any fun plans? This is the first weekend in awhile I haven't had something going on, and I'm planning on taking full advantage I'm hoping to do the big summer-to-fall closet switch and I'd like to make it to yoga. Otherwise, relaxing. And maybe some thrift shopping? It was a weird week, I definitely didn't get enough sleep, which left me feeling a little on-edge and off-kilter. Hoping to get back to center over the next couple of days. Hope yours is a relaxing one!

xo

ICYMI: My style picks for fall (on sale for another hour or so!)

Things to talk about that aren't work (I'm so, so tired of talking about work)

40% off fall favorites from J. Crew! Loving this denim jumpsuit and this fluffy baby blue sweater

Wine pairings for the impending impeachment proceedings (topical!)

I'm in full sweater-hoarding mode, which is making the new recycled cashmere line from Everlane really, really hard to resist (I have my eye on this one)

So cool – Mattel has launched a new line of gender-neutral dolls called 'Createable World'

Do you decorate for the season? I don't usually but these handmade velvet pumpkins are making me rethink that

Definitely need to bake something this weekend and this Pumpkin Tahini Loaf looks like just the thing. Or maybe pumpkin chocolate chip bread? I can't decide!

Save 50% off shoes from Urban Outfitters! Including these very classic Nikes

Today in horrifying stories: a woman was shot in the head by her boyfriend... and she didn't realize it for a month

I photographed a bride wearing these sparkly wedding sneakers last weekend and now I think they're the perfect wedding shoes – how cute are they?

I just got these slippers and good lord are they the coziest things ever (I guess we're talking shoes in this post)

On a less horrifying note, this piece about planning for the future was really lovely

Save an extra 30% off sale from Anthropologie! Eyeing this sleek jumpsuit and these cute pink sunnies

Love this list of easy zero-waste swaps

If you're looking for a new book, perhaps one set in Maine that's a bit spooky?

Weekend Reading 9.21

Happy Saturday, friends! I just got back from working as a photographer's assistant for a wedding and I. Am. Beat. This week was a long one spent checking off some big to-dos, the most exciting of which is I finally pulled the trigger and bought a car. Chris and I have been sharing one car for months, and while I wish owning two wasn't necessary, with his schedule it absolutely is. So, now that I have a way to get around outside of my easily walkable radius, tomorrow I'm planning on taking my paddleboard out to enjoy the second wave of summery weather that's hit Portland. I can't believe it's already the end of September – this year has flown by at an incredible pace, but I'm also really excited about the next few weeks. My brother is coming to town – the last time I saw him was in 2017 – and to be honest, I'm just really looking forward to fall and everything that comes with it. Apple picking? Yes please. Fall hikes? Sign me up. I'm ready for all of it.

xo

A great and powerful read: Jonathon Van Ness comes out as HIV-positive (NYT)

Related: I just ordered his book

How to join the youth climate strike – no matter your age. Did you protest this week? I couldn't go but am hoping to this Friday!

I've been on the hunt for a new fall coat - loving this menswear-inspired plaid jacket, this cozy shearling moto jacket and this dreamy faux-fur jacket

Are you going to see the new Downton Abbey movie? I have so much catching up to do!

For the true crime lovers out there, a long read: the hunt for the serial killer of Laredo

I have my eye on this cozy cashmere sweater – so pretty with jeans or even with a skirt for fall

Why doesn't anyone feel like an adult anymore?

Found: a really good matte black nail polish (perfect for the season)

How to make a lifestyle change actually stick – I needed this

Can you tell I'm on a sweater kick? Loving this cozy striped sweater

This is pretty major – Allure just launched a clean beauty seal!

Love this modern take on the liner jacket - especially in that ochre color

These chai spice cookies are on my must-make list

Iced horchata latte? Sign me up.

OK, this pink faux-fur moto jacket is too good

Weekend Reading 9.13

Happy Friday the 13th! I feel like I've been looking forward to this weekend for, well, weeks. Life has felt like a whirlwind lately, and I'm in desperate need of some downtime. I don't have much planned for myself this weekend, for once – I'm doing some car research so I can hopefully get myself a car next week (a big reason why life has felt so crazy has been sharing a car with someone who works 90 hours a week), and going to the Portland Yard Sale on Sunday. And cleaning my disaster of an apartment – not sure about you, but you can tell a lot about my mental state by the state of my apartment, and right now it's in shambles. There are about 1000 other things I'd like to add to my to-do list, but I'm trying – REALLY TRYING – to slow down and take the time I need to get back to my baseline of feeling somewhat better (I need sleep, badly). Anyway – I hope YOUR weekend is restful and relaxing and exactly what you need it to be. If you're in Maine/Portland, come out to the Portland Yard Sale! I'll have a rack of vintage there and all proceeds go to RAICES to support families separated at the border.

XO

Fall hit fast this year (it's currently 40°f!) and I'm really excited about dressing for it. I have my eye on this cool bag company for a good work-friendly bag, some hiking-inspired sneakers (that green pair!), and some kind of cozy, fluffy faux-fur coat

Have you seen the new Madewell x Dickies collab? Giving me major flashbacks in the best way. I have these pants and this jumpsuit (pink!) in my cart.

Teens explain their back-to-school outfits (everything looks like the Delias catalog from 1997 and I LOVE IT) (Related: I feel old but that's OK)

I have plants to bake something this weekend – and I think it might be this delicious-looking pumpkin bread

I have my eye on this pretty layering necklace – I haven't seen one like this before and think it would be so nice on its own or layered up

Have you seen Everlane's new corduroy pieces? I wasn't sure about them but have since convinced myself that I need these high waist wide leg pants - so good with sneakers and a vintage tee, right? I'm thinking Navy...

Always love seeing who Bon Appetit nominates for their 50 Best Restaurants list – no Maine on there, but I do see Providence and Boston!

I LOVE LOVE LOVE seeing more size representation on Shopbop! They still have a ways to go for total inclusivity, but I love that they didn't make a big deal about it (You know what I mean? Some companies seem to only do it for the press coverage and like they're doing people a favor – I like that they just did it). MORE OF THIS PLEASE!

My favorite loafers now come in a (really good) snake print - ordering now!

Started this powerful book this week - so far I'm loving it, one part memoir, one part self-help/advice, but from someone who has experienced more than most of us will ever experience in one lifetime

What you can do now to financially prep for the holidays - I needed this, but also how about emotionally prepping? Thinking about that a lot lately.

The best new cookbooks for fall – I seriously need some inspiration, I feel like I've been stuck on autopilot recently

Long Weekend Reading 09.01

Happy long weekend! Can you believe it's Labor Day weekend already? This summer flew by (and TBH I'm ready for fall), but I'm also not quite ready to admit summer's nearly over – with how our schedules worked out, this summer was a bit of a bust, so really I'm celebrating the arrival of September and what that means for us. Chris and I have some plans to unplug this weekend and celebrate the end of the busiest season at work – at least the proverbial end (it's probably not going to end) – and I'm looking forward to doing some reading, writing and hiking. Hope yours is sun-filled and relaxing – here's some links to click, read & shop:

ICYMI: Dainty gold necklaces for fall

Save 50% off sale styles + 40% off your purchase from J.Crew! Including this adorable dress and this classic bag

August's most popular recipes - those grilled shrimp look so good!

Receive a great 5 piece gift set with any Biossance purchase - this gorgeous oil literally changed my life

PSA: Don't fly with cake mix

I've been working on updating my Poshmark closet more frequently - if you've been thinking about joining, you can use the code 'ORCHIDGREY' to sign up and get $10!

on the desire to look less "Instagrammable"

Save 50% off sale items from Anthropologie. I have my eye on this cozy-looking henley dress, this headband and this adorable beaded bag

Made me laugh (re: Lizzo)

On my wishlist for fall: Cozy fall pieces in muted colors (that color-block cardigan!), a perfect faux-fur jacket, and some pretty, dainty hair accessories

Have you watched the trailer yet for The Goldfinch? I'm so excited!

Crushing on this chunky knit cardigan and these button-up pants

How to stretch your grocery budget

My other holy grail skin product now comes in a duo with an oil - plus receive a free full-size gift!

Weekend Reading 8.4

Hello! Happy AUGUST. I've officially reached that point in the summer, I'm booked up. My calendar is full. I've reached max capacity. Do you know what I'm talking about? It's that point in the summer when you attempt to make plans, but realize every single weekend – and most weekdays – are all booked. No vacancy. If you're lucky – or rather, if you're smart – you've remembered to leave some time for yourself during all this. I didn't. So I'll be cleaning my apartment in the early mornings, preparing for next weekend's houseguests while simultaneously coming down from this weekend, which was spent (joyously, mind you) celebrating a friend's pregnancy in Rhode Island. it's all good stuff, but like any summer in New England, it all comes at once. When you spend half the year hibernating, the summer months tend to fill up... fast. The past few weekends were no exception. I had a summer camp reunion, visits from family, and lots of work between all that. This evening I'm heading home from previously mentioned Rhode Island/ Massachusetts trip and hopefully going to the grocery store, because the pickings are slim after all this busyness. ANYWAY, I hope your summer has been FULL and GOOD. Sharing some items of interest below:

A friend introduced me to this podcast this weekend and now I bequeath it to you: You're Wrong About podcast. I started with the Anna Nicole episode and highly recommend.

Head's up: Shopbop just added a ton of cute pieces to their sale section! I always grab a couple of statement pieces for the next season from their sale section (yes, I know. I can't believe I'm talking about fall either). This time around I'm looking for a cute statement bag.

A devastating but engrossing and important long read: Driven to the end.

The Outdoor Voices sale is still going strong - and I'm still stocking up on leggings (I'm obsessed with the Tech Sweat fabric)

Made me laugh (and also how almost all my days start)

My skin has been going haywire this month, and I've been hearing so many good things about CBD -infused skincare. I discovered that a CBD pain-relieving balm is also great for after-sun care (goodbye redness), and I have this CBD skin booster in my cart. A friend also gave this CBD serum rave reviews.

Related to the above: is this "BAD summer?". Is that what this is?

I'm still loving neon, especially paired with neutrals for fall – how pretty are these neon statement pieces? So pretty paired with more organic, understated jewelry (those horn hoops!).

This is what I want for dinner: Harissa chicken salad

Both Chris and I have been using this shampoo lately and I feel like it's making our routines so much easier. It adds a bit of grit to your hair (but not too much) so it's easier to style.

Heavy stuff, but I feel I can't not acknowledge the fact that, yet again, our country has experienced trauma, senseless death and tragedy at the hands of someone with a gun: The virality of evil (NYT) and Rihanna speaks for all of us (hopefully)

A coworker introduced me to this wallet this week and now I want one. (sleek, compact and has an RFID blocker)

I finally picked up this book (Maine content) last week and I'm loving it – perfect easy, funny, but poignant read for the beach

Want to change the world? Do this (very simple) thing.

Weekend Reading 5.19.19

Oh hey, it's been a minute. Or at least a couple of weeks. I just saw some silly video on Facebook about "MAYcember" – basically how May is crazy busy for parents because of school things, but I'm apt to believe May is insane for all of us. Am I right? I've been wrapped up with a huge work project over the past few weeks, and we're in the final home stretch. Which means the end is in sight but it's also the final, crazy push. I'm tired. I miss being home. It wouldn't be a stretch to say that I spent more time in cars this past week than I did in my own home – I found myself at the (fairly famous) Brimfield Fleas Market for a couple of days this past week, today I made a trip to MA to pick up some plants, and somewhere in between I photographed a friend's wedding (I wore the sheer midi dress above from this LA-based brand and got so many compliments!). I'm 100% ready for Memorial Day weekend!

ICYMI: My picks for cute rain gear

Now that it's finally (sort of) warming up here, I've been on the hunt for a cute pajama set. Love these fun tropical prints, these super cozy pieces (those lace-up shorts!), and of course need a sweet silk eye mask to finish it off

What you can do to help women in states with extreme abortion bans

Just buy the fu**ing latte - solid advice

I've been searching for a pair of basic sneakers to pair with dresses this summer and I think I found them... but also the leopard? 

A really good tote bag for someone who loves to cook

How pretty is Tieka's living room reveal? That big plant!

Loving pink & coral hues together for summer – it just makes me think of the beach!

Your weed-buying habits could help make the cannabis industry more ethical

I just ordered these pants and I'm in love - so comfy and perfect for summer and I wish they made more colors. Head's up though, they run large. Also really digging these cute shorts.

Look, I love true crime but this is also an important perspective: Don't use my family for your true crime story

Some really good looks: People watching at the Frieze Art Fair

I finally broke down and ordered new running sneakers this week and I love them (and yes, I'll be doing a review!)

The health revolution that could change your life (any guesses?)

This book is next on my list – sounds like the perfect summer beach read!

5 people who can help you love your body

I'm cookie-obsessed if you couldn't already tell – and man I really want to make these

Weekend Reading 3.30.19

Happy weekend! This week felt about a million years long and I'm thrilled that the weekend is here – anyone else a day ahead all week? Definitely thought it was Thursday on Wednesday, so yeah, I'm ready for a couple of days off. Looks like rain this weekend, so I'm planning on unplugging for a bit and doing some spring cleaning and organizing, and maybe working on some tactile projects as well. This is entirely influenced by the podcast I'm listening to right now – Wild Ideas Worth Living from REI, specifically How to Unplug with Danny Kim (you can read the transcript here). As a social media manager and otherwise internet-oriented person, I find it really difficult to unplug for any length of time, but it's something I've been working on. This week was a total bust, though. I'm feeling a bit disconnected from my regular routine, so this weekend is all about getting back into it. Hope you have something fun and/or relaxing planned!

XO

ICYMI - my 3 favorite accessory trends for spring

Major Anthropologie sale alert: save an extra 40% off sale items ! I ordered this gorgeous skirt, and I have my eye on this dress and these shams - (discount in cart)

This bralette is so pretty and comes in the perfect springtime shades - love the blue!

Yum - these keto cadbury creme eggs look so good

We've been doing some simple organizing and updating to get ready for spring - loving these simple wall hooks for the bathroom or behind a door

Kind of obsessed with this gorgeous home - all that art!

Slim wide leg jeans are a thing and they're perfect for people like me who just can't do the super wide crops I'm seeing everywhere.

I think I'm going to make it a goal to bake something new each week - tomorrow I'm going to make this paleo carrot cake - the ingredients are actually reasonable (only 4 eggs instead of the usual dozen!)

How cool is this handmade concrete incense holder?

Love this look on Mara - and yes, she totally inspired me to get that skirt!

Topical: how to make your life more pleasurable

The important stuff: The dogs of the 2020 presidential race

This handmade eye pillow would be a pretty Mother's Day gift

Major news: Reformation just expanded their size range permanently - loving this simple dress and this must-have skirt

Did you watch Shrill? I loved it! What we can learn from Ryan, the bare-minimum boyfriend

How cool is this stained glass aloe vera plant?

Love this cute cat enamel pin

.

Weekend Reading 3.23.19

Happy weekend! And happy spring! This week really did feel like spring, even though it snowed today for about an hour. It's amazing what the extra daylight can do. It's Maple Weekend in Maine and New Hampshire this weekend, which is when all the maple sugar shacks open up to the public and everyone openly admits to worshipping at the altar of maple syrup. Chris and I are going up to Waldoboro for a maple dinner at Tops'l Farm – I bought the tickets in early January and I kind of can't believe the weekend is already here. Also the local collective addiction to real maple syrup in New England is kind of my favorite. xo

I'm determined to make cookies this weekend - I've been craving chocolate chip for weeks. These look amazing but I think I'm going to make these vegan chocolate chip cookies

Exclusive: get 10% off any order over $50 from Brooklinen with the code orchid10 - I've been sleeping on the classic sheets in cream and they're so comfortable!

Do you watch Bob's Burgers? It's one of Chris and my favorites and it might be our collective coping mechanism

I'm really into this resurfacing mask - after 10 minutes my skin feels amazing (get a free 15-piece gift set with code SPRING)

The true story behind Hulu's The Act (have you watched it?)

Save 30% off new items from J.Crew! Love this chic linen tee, this cute mini dress and this button-front dress

The 96 year old yoga queen 

& Other Stories is having a huge sale! Eyeing up this zebra-stripe skirt, this patterned midi wrap dress, this sleek coat (for next winter), and these cool yellow jeans

Yum - or maybe I'll make this healthy banana bread

I've been on a pretty serious sneaker bender as of late and I'm eyeing these up as my next pair

Love this great guide to houseplants from Jess

Have you tried a wake up light? I'm struggling to get up in the AM and am super curious!

Some great practical tips for beating burnout

Eyeing up this delicate floral midi skirt - so pretty with a light sweater for spring and under $50!

Weekend Reading 3.17.19

This weekend felt like spring! Maybe for the majority of the country this is not news, but for Maine, where spring doesn't usually arrive until much later, it was a welcome change from winter. This weekend was relatively chill and normal, which was also a welcome change from crazy schedules and weekends spent solo while Chris works. Hope yours was as chill as you needed it to be too XO

On my March wishlist: These bright and spring-ready bags, a perfect pair of vintage-inspired jeans, a little hair flair,  and these bright and bold pieces (loving that polkadot dress!)

A great article about Outdoor Voices (NYT)

Save an extra 50% off sale items from J.Crew! Loving this chic black dress, this springy sweater, and this super cute polkadot swimsuit

How cute are these DIY rainbow earrings?

Obsessed with this vintage-inspired acrylic bag

Opinion: Go home to your dying hometown

I've been collecting fun hair clips lately and just got these pearl hair clips - so cute!

In the wake of the college admissions scam – does it really matter where you go to college?

Literally the BEST non-toxic deodorant I've ever used

On my must-read list (have you read it yet?)

how incredible are these floral rings?

Ever feel like your pets know when you're sick? There's science behind it

I've been looking for a wireless cotton bra and this one has rave reviews

The squirrels have declared war (cackling)

Have you seen ModCloth's homepage lately? It's SO GOOD! (watch the video here)

Jennifer Aniston... secret muse?

Weekend Reading 12.28

This is it, the last weekend before the new year – can you believe it? The days between Christmas and New Year's Eve have always been some of my favorites, they're typically quieter, a little more relaxed, the calm after the storm of the holidays. We finally get our weekends back! I've been allowing myself to step back a bit this week - not on social media as much, relaxing a bit before the new year starts, trying to think hard about what I hope to harness and achieve in the year to come. I'm not a huge fan of NYE celebrations because I hate spending the first day of the year hungover. I'd much rather use the 31st and the 1st to feel good and set the tone for what's to come. We're stopping by a friend's party on Monday (I'll be home before midnight, I can guarantee you), then on Tuesday I'm headed to a New Year's Day yoga class and starting a Whole 30 for the month. January is always a good month for me, it's typically sunny and clear here in Maine, and it's my birth month! Hope the final weekend of 2018 is a good one for you! xo

This vintage camp blanket is calling. my. name.  (It matches this perfectly)

Beautiful, humanizing portraits of 19th-century Chinese patients

This vintage '70s dress would be super cute with knee-high boots

My 2019 mood: This keychain

Mango has some beautiful pieces on major sale right now: these high-waist wide leg pants (in my cart), this shearling teddy jacket, and this striped sweater to name a few faves

By now, we've all seen Michelle Obama's Balenciaga boots, but I'm going to show them to you again.

Another sale worth shopping: Shopbop - some of my favorite items in my closet are on major discount: this belt bag (under $40), these snake boots, this leather jacket, these incredibly chic loafers (go 1/2 size down)

15 Winter Self-Care Ideas

The case for leaving your holiday lights up all year round (we're leaving the lights we strung around our dining room and office windows up - they cast the perfect comforting glow!)

A good long-read: Bastard

One last sale to shop: J.Crew. Take an extra 50% off sale items - like this gorgeous wrap dress, this velvet tank, this wintery anorak, and this beautiful coat

7 ways to improve your job performance that have nothing to do with your job

Chris gave me this book for Christmas and I can't wait to dive in, so to speak.

Low rise jeans. What say you? That's gonna be a big ol' "nope" from me, dawg.

Something to make you smile: Amy Sedaris's charming and kooky apartment

Weekend Reading 12.8

Big sigh of relief that it's the weekend. No matter how hard I try, I always reach a certain point in the holiday season where it all just gets a little overwhelming. I feel as though I've had my head down a little bit this week, just trying to get through and knowing that soon, things will be a little calmer. I like the holidays, but I like the big sigh of relief that January beings more. This weekend we're hitting up another big craft fair here in Portland (Picnic), grabbing drinks and then breakfast with a couple sets of friends, and doing a little decorating (still trying to figure out the whole Christmas tree situation). Hope yours is a good one, friends.

Remembering Anthony Bourdain

Love this: Shopbop has a brand new Amazon shop! You know I'm a huge fan of Shopbop, now and this shop makes shopping for gifts and holiday looks that much easier (especially if you're like me and realize you need a new holiday dress two days before a party – Prime shipping, baby)

ICYMI: Talking about taking care of your clothes (on my list for this weekend: the tailor and the dry cleaner!)

Speaking of holiday looks - love these perfect party dresses and these earring options (these vintage pieces would be perfect as well_

Applause all around: Girlfriend Collective just expanded their size range up to 6XL. I think it's time to invest in new leggings.

How to be kinder to yourself

Pretty serving ware that doesn't scream 'holiday' but still feels festive

Netflix Christmas movies, ranked. Get ready to cackle.... but also get ready to want to watch them all?

I bet this Christmas candle smells so good

How to throw a better holiday party

Sale-on-sale from J.Crew: Take an extra 50% off! Love this cozy jacket

If you're feeling the holidays on a not-particularly-great cellular level, this green C smoothie sounds really, really good.

Love this post from Joanna: when your partner isn't into the holidays

These cute earring sets would be a sweet gift for a friend

"Shame is the opposite of art" – worth reading

Weekend Reading 12.1

It's December! What a week. I did a ton of driving for work (I have a new full-time job - no longer totally freelance, and remembering that it takes some time to settle into the rhythm of things), so this weekend is all about getting back into the swing of things at home - Chris and I cleaned the house, I ran some errands... not exciting at all, I know, but needed. I actually purchased a new template for this blog on Cyber Monday, so I'm looking forward to spending some time tomorrow working on installation and otherwise playing a big game of catch-up from last week. Tomorrow, Chris and I are going to a holiday fair at the ferry terminal and I'm hoping to at least finalize our holiday shopping list, if not finish the shopping. We still don't have a tree. I've been feeling on the fence whether or not to get a real one and frankly, I've been doing so much decorating for work that that thought of decorating our house feels a little overwhelming.

On my December wishlist: the perfect holiday dress (love these gorgeous pieces), a pretty clutch to go with it, and something cozy for winter because hello winter is here!

ICYMI: A new skincare brand I'm loving (especially the luminizer and moisturizer)

Love this pretty set of vintage lamps

I got this sweater and this cozy scarf during last week's sales and I'm obsessed

I've been craving chocolate chip cookies all week and I've decided I'm making these paleo chocolate chip cookies tomorrow - YUM

The colors of this vintage dress are so perfect for the season

Love this DIY solid perfume for holiday gifting

Heads up: J.Crew sale-on-sale! Take an additional 50% off sale items! Love this gorgeous lace dress, this chic velvet top, and this pretty wrap dress

Have you listened to The Wing's new podcast, No Man's Land? I'm so excited about it, and super stoked to listen to The Daily!!!

Take an extra 40% off Anthropologie sale! I'm loving this mirror and this mirror, these cool knobs, and this rad anorak

My girl Joanna is hosting an incredible 5-day styling workshop in Italy this summer and I'm honestly considering it - it sounds amazing

This book sounds cool - thinking I might pick it up for this year's yankee swap!

Not gonna lie - I love this music video

This scarf looks so cozy!

How to give a great gift (NYT)

Weekend Reading 10.19

Suddenly we went straight to early winter this week in Maine – even waking to a few snowflakes on Tuesday morning... yikes. I don't mind it, as long as the real snow holds off for just a little bit longer. I'm not quite ready for total hibernation (still looking for used spin bikes to get me though the winter feeling sane). I'm in North Conway, NH today while Chris works, nothing new, as this is the area where we're both from, but a nice change of scenery for the end of the week. Last night we attended LL Bean's Boots & Brews event with a bunch of local breweries, which was fun, and this weekend we're planning on finishing up our second bedroom in preparation for friends visiting in early November and then the holidays. I'm also planning on listing a ton of stuff for sale on Poshmark and maybe my Depop too because next week is surfboard week. I've been selling off a ton of stuff as motivation and to help save up for a surfboard and wetsuit, and our local shop is having an event on Wednesday where they'll have some used soft tops for sale. I'm very, very excited about this. Perhaps silly to be buying a surfboard as we go into winter, but I think it's just something to make the days go by quicker 'till spring. Hope your week was a good one xo

ICYMI: My favorite under $200 boots for fall

I love vintage trivets like these - so pretty as part of a centerpiece too!

Grammar matters.

I'm in full nesting mode right now – I just really want our apartment to feel "finished" - and just bought this pretty neutral duvet cover.

A great post from Jess about how to be an informed voter

Speaking of home stuff, Lulu & Georgia is having a huge anniversary sale with 25% off sitewide. Super obsessed with this rug and this chic floor lamp

An anarchist desert town

Because winter feels about 10 years long and it's stretching in front of me: more fun sweaters like this

Curious about this book - gorgeous cover!

This pearl beaded handbag is so cute and well under $100

Yum - definitely making these grain-free waffles this weekend!

Obsessing over red shoes lately - love these sleek (but totally walkable) boots

Madewell is having a 30% off sale on everything! Love this retro striped sweater, this cozy colorblock sweater, and these great corduroys

A super easy Halloween pumpkin DIY by your's truly :)

How chic is this plaid overcoat? I'd wear it with a black turtleneck sweater and jeans (predictable!)

Super curious to try this brand of organic lipsticks - super want that lip serum too

Weekend Reading 10.13

Saturday night! Already! how did that happen? I spent this past week feeling super dialed in, so I took advantage of the focus to get myself back on track a bit. I successfully worked out in the mornings (life changing!), rediscovered my love for bulletproof-style coffee with some Lions Mane thrown in (actually maintaining focus for more than 5 minutes!), and even made time to get together with a new friend for drinks and had an impromptu date with Chris (a social life? What is this?), it was a good week and I needed it. Unfortunately, Zephyr didn't have the best week and ended up at the vet on Friday evening. He's OK, but we've been instructed to not let him jump on things (good luck to us), so this weekend he's taking it easy and we're going hiking. Last weekend we did an easy coastal hike but this time around we're headed into the mountains for something bugger - I can't wait! Hope you have something fun planned too! xo

This vintage candelabra would be perfect for a Halloween entryway!

My favorite boots for fall and winter - such a nice change of pace from heavy winter boots but still sensible (love these too)

Golden milk cake? Yes please!

How intensely beautiful is this handmade crystal ring dish? Can't get enough of those colors

OK, I'm convinced... I think I need corduroys. This color and shape feels so fresh but still vintage-inspired.

Isn't this vintage fringed leather bag gorgeous? Love the embossing!

How to have a seasonal mini-retreat. Sounds pretty fantastic to me and now this book is on my to-read list

It's happened, I'm into belt bags. Love these chic sling bag options, and this handmade number, and this one too

I've been getting back into Pinterest lately - I mean, how pretty is this shelving situation?

I finished The Book of Essie this week (record time) and really enjoyed it - have you read it? It's new and very relevant to current events.

Really digging this pretty striped sweater - those colors!

A very bad habit we all need to break (guilty, but working on it)

Holy shit. I want to eat these

I just finished the series Atypical on Netflix and it was fantastic. As someone who grew up with a sibling with autism, I thought it was interesting to see a version of the family dynamic represented on TV. Have you watched it?

This Halloween costume made me laugh

Oh I think I need this cozy cardigan coat! Plus it's 30% off this weekend!