tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59824062454429925702024-03-18T05:47:47.172-04:00| Pretty Little Thingspretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.comBlogger469125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-68995310365355356212015-05-11T07:30:00.000-04:002015-05-11T07:30:01.267-04:00Delicate Stacking Jewelry <div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
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One trend I am sooo loving right now is dainty and delicate stacking jewelry. I've always been partial to thin and delicate jewelry, so much so, that I may have hinted I wanted my engagement ring to have that same feel (good job D!). What's cool is there are so many designers at all price points that make gorgeous additions to any jewelry box. And because many pieces are not super expensive, it's a nice way to freshen up an old outfit ad to truly reflect your mood that day. Here are some of my current favorite pieces.</div>
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/delicate_stacking_jewelry/set?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=155824234" target="_blank"><img alt="Delicate stacking jewelry" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/BCE8vlzEwGY7DDVGAfOKbg/cid/155824234/id/gjApaVTk5BGnwVsTtvvecw/size/c600x940.jpg" height="940" title="Delicate stacking jewelry" width="600" /></a></div>
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<small><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=128285680" rel="nofollow">Gorjana 18k necklace</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=134953612" rel="nofollow">Heart shaped ring</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=134463762" rel="nofollow">Gorjana ring</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=125571626" rel="nofollow">Stella Dot pave ring</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=128480080" rel="nofollow">BCBGeneration band ring</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=134530640" rel="nofollow">Yellow gold ring</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=132781810" rel="nofollow">Ileana Makri ring</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=115196413" rel="nofollow">J Crew j crew jewelry</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=135449653" rel="nofollow">Gorjana earrings</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=131869847" rel="nofollow">Gorjana yellow gold bangle</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=131027396" rel="nofollow">Gorjana gold necklace</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=125854412" rel="nofollow">Gorjana necklace</a></span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-size: small;">Have you gotten on board with delicate stacking jewelry yet?</span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-size: small;">Where are your favorite places to find your jewelry?</span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-size: small;">xo Steph</span></small></div>
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pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com52tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-69416805520868582782015-05-08T07:30:00.000-04:002015-05-08T07:30:00.678-04:00Forum Friday: Is Granny Hair Fierce or Faux Pas?<div style="text-align: center;">
Yup you heard me, it's called granny hair. What is it? It's women who are choosing to either go fully gray early, putting in gray highlights, or even doing a funky gray ombre look. Currently, I do go to the salon every few months to color my hair. I've noticed since turning 30, my grays have been coming in full force. Not so much so that I have the skunk line running down the center of my head, but more like they are sprouting up like unwanted silver highlights. I do color my grays right now because 1.) I feel like I'm way too young to have gray hairs showing and 2.) I'm getting married this March, so I do want to keep that youth appearance right now. Understanding that graying hair is all hereditary, I know I will most likely start graying early like my mom did.</div>
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<b>But more about this granny hair. </b>When I first heard about it, I thought it was nuts. Like why would anyone do this?! Until I started seeing some totally gorgeous, confident women rocking their gray locks. And then I started to change my mind.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RgNUPevlDVE/VUE-P-xPCiI/AAAAAAAAKko/wgu-7hiXxnk/s1600/gray%2Bhair%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RgNUPevlDVE/VUE-P-xPCiI/AAAAAAAAKko/wgu-7hiXxnk/s1600/gray%2Bhair%2B1.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Like seriously how gorgeous is she? </div>
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All original sources for granny hair an be found on my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/sgee/">pinterest page</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dMPq-8VsSlk/VUFAiY9qsMI/AAAAAAAAKk4/CEe6sy-UO50/s1600/gray2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dMPq-8VsSlk/VUFAiY9qsMI/AAAAAAAAKk4/CEe6sy-UO50/s1600/gray2.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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So you could go a lot on the ombre….</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bUKQxAjQ9qY/VUFAinsYlRI/AAAAAAAAKk0/vwsJXYUIB3w/s1600/gray3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bUKQxAjQ9qY/VUFAinsYlRI/AAAAAAAAKk0/vwsJXYUIB3w/s1600/gray3.jpg" height="640" width="404" /></a></div>
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or just a little…..</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oCJzXZbS7ks/VUFAik_M94I/AAAAAAAAKk8/_kEaEQC_4wc/s1600/gray4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oCJzXZbS7ks/VUFAik_M94I/AAAAAAAAKk8/_kEaEQC_4wc/s1600/gray4.jpg" height="640" width="520" /></a></div>
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recognize anyone from Orange is the New Black? Or should I say Gray is the new black. I do have to admit she looks fierce with that gray/lavender combo.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lz0_TaNxc-o/VUFBO0rITeI/AAAAAAAAKlM/tLD4JsQRUEE/s1600/gray6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lz0_TaNxc-o/VUFBO0rITeI/AAAAAAAAKlM/tLD4JsQRUEE/s1600/gray6.jpg" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
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Or go mostly gray with some dark roots showing.</div>
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So what are your thoughts? I have to admit I think it looks ahhhhhmazing on all these ladies! Will I ever have the guts to do it myself? That's to be determined. I do know that because I have such dark, almost black hair, it would require a lot of bleach, which in turn can result in come severely damaged hair that breaks off. However, if you're up for that risk, I am kind of totally on board with this trend. <b>But what do you think?</b> Leave a comment and let me know what you think on the new silver fox trend!</div>
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xo Steph</div>
<br />pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-50887380650155562002015-05-07T07:30:00.000-04:002015-05-07T07:30:00.762-04:00Healthy Eats: Shrimp Scampi over Spaghetti Squash<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I loooove me some shrimp scampi!! Not only because it's high in protein and full of flavor, but it's also a relatively light dish, and also light on calories if you prepare it right. I used to make this dish all the time and serve it over whole wheat pasta, but then I thought using spaghetti squash would really elevate this meal on the healthy spectrum and take it up a whole new level. Because you're practically eating a plate of veggies and seafood -- you can feel 100% guilt free for over indulging or getting that second glass of white wine :)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Hs9mv5hDA8/VUEzNrFHwuI/AAAAAAAAKkY/4XK3y3Zuel0/s1600/scampi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Hs9mv5hDA8/VUEzNrFHwuI/AAAAAAAAKkY/4XK3y3Zuel0/s1600/scampi.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>// Ingredients //</b><b> serves 4</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 spaghetti squashes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="amount" data-bind="html: quantityAndMeasureAsFraction" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 20px;">4 tsp</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;"> </span><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 20px;">olive oil</span></span><br />
<span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="amount" data-bind="html: quantityAndMeasureAsFraction" style="box-sizing: border-box;">1 <span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">1</span>⁄<span style="bottom: -0.25em; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline;">4</span> lb</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">medium shrimp </span><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;">, peeled (tails left on)</span></span></span><br />
<span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 20px;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="amount" data-bind="html: quantityAndMeasureAsFraction" style="box-sizing: border-box;">6</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">to 8 garlic cloves</span><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;">, minced</span></span></span></span><br />
<span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 20px;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="amount" data-bind="html: quantityAndMeasureAsFraction" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">1</span>⁄<span style="bottom: -0.25em; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline;">2</span> cup</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">low-sodium chicken broth</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 20px;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="amount" data-bind="html: quantityAndMeasureAsFraction" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">1</span>⁄<span style="bottom: -0.25em; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline;">2</span> cup</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">dry white wine</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 20px;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="amount" data-bind="html: quantityAndMeasureAsFraction" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">1</span>⁄<span style="bottom: -0.25em; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline;">4</span> cup</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">fresh lemon juice</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 20px;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="amount" data-bind="html: quantityAndMeasureAsFraction" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">1</span>⁄<span style="bottom: -0.25em; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline;">4</span> cup</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">plus 1 tablespoon fresh parsley</span><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;">, minced</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 20px;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="amount" data-bind="html: quantityAndMeasureAsFraction" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">1</span>⁄<span style="bottom: -0.25em; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline;">4</span> tsp</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">salt</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 20px;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="amount" data-bind="html: quantityAndMeasureAsFraction" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">1</span>⁄<span style="bottom: -0.25em; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 0; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline;">4</span> tsp</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">black pepper</span><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;">, freshly ground</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 20px;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span data-bind="visible: prepNotes().length > 0" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">lemons for garnish</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<b>// Directions //</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">In a large nonstick skillet, heat the oil. Sauté the shrimp until just pink, 2-3 minutes. </span><span style="line-height: 20px;">Add the garlic and cook stirring constantly, about 30 seconds. </span><span style="line-height: 20px;">With a slotted spoon transfer the shrimp to a platter, keep hot. </span><span style="line-height: 20px;">In the skillet, combine the broth, wine, lemon juice, 1/4 cup of the parsley, the salt and pepper; bring to a boil. </span><span style="line-height: 20px;">Boil, uncovered, until the sauce is reduced by half; spoon over the shrimp. </span><span style="line-height: 20px;">Serve over already prepared spaghetti squash (more how to prepare the spaghetti squash <a href="http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/2014/03/healthy-eats-spaghetti-squash-meat-sauce.html#.VUE33jrQghI">here</a>) garnished with the lemon slices and sprinkled with the remaining tablespoon of parsley. A little sprinkling of red pepper flakes and parmesan cheese if desired. And boom! There you have it, one of my favorite go-to weeknight meals :)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">I hope you definitely give this recipe a try and let me know what you think!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"> xo Steph</span></span></div>
pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-37675621482114903842015-05-06T07:30:00.000-04:002015-05-06T07:30:00.929-04:00Our Engagement Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well how about it….I am FINALLY getting around to sharing some pics from our engagement party that our wonderful families threw for us. This was waaayyyy back in October and we had such a lovely time. We only invited close local family and our friends who were in our wedding party. We wanted to keep the night intimate where we could just focus on food, family and fun. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8pIeDEZT9Vw/VUErFtzdsLI/AAAAAAAAKkE/Owgqt4iHnU0/s1600/eparty8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8pIeDEZT9Vw/VUErFtzdsLI/AAAAAAAAKkE/Owgqt4iHnU0/s1600/eparty8.jpg" height="598" width="640" /></a></div>
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the future Mr. & Mrs. D. Complete with crystal stemware, so fancy.</div>
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I also knew I wanted to use this party as a time to ask my girls, well rather pop the question if they would be my bridesmaids. Not all my bridesmaids could come, since they are scattered all over the place, but I did infact, pop the big question to my ladies who were there.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xCJzo1ok9D8/VUErFJyeSHI/AAAAAAAAKjo/kldwfKrrzZY/s1600/eparty6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xCJzo1ok9D8/VUErFJyeSHI/AAAAAAAAKjo/kldwfKrrzZY/s1600/eparty6.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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Each got a little box with their name on it, a card from me, a mini bottle of wine, some yummy chocolates, a fun Essie nail polish, and cake batter flavored (yes, you heard that right!) chapstick. Just some little goodies to make the night more special.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GvV-BSTV63Q/VUErD-dKRLI/AAAAAAAAKjQ/s7y_C5beVKA/s1600/eparty1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GvV-BSTV63Q/VUErD-dKRLI/AAAAAAAAKjQ/s7y_C5beVKA/s1600/eparty1.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
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I also saw this adorable idea of Etsy with diamond ring shaped toothpicks, that when popped on the top of a doughnut, make them look like little diamond rings. So cute right? I had a platter set out of apple cider donuts (because it was October) a we snapped the cute pic above!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a16iazE46Wc/VUJlT4CVGWI/AAAAAAAAKmI/bgxGCAni_nU/s1600/eparty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a16iazE46Wc/VUJlT4CVGWI/AAAAAAAAKmI/bgxGCAni_nU/s1600/eparty.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FWZWaoMVTvg/VUErFc3z6OI/AAAAAAAAKj0/3U3agFj1kto/s1600/eparty7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FWZWaoMVTvg/VUErFc3z6OI/AAAAAAAAKj0/3U3agFj1kto/s1600/eparty7.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j3_6Ncsc9iM/VUErD8PoHvI/AAAAAAAAKjU/X3d_4qeL_G0/s1600/eparty2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j3_6Ncsc9iM/VUErD8PoHvI/AAAAAAAAKjU/X3d_4qeL_G0/s1600/eparty2.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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I got to spend time with my girlfriends, some who I don't get to see very often so it was really a nice night.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MJVRcEpqe-U/VUErDyW47sI/AAAAAAAAKjM/kpTU21OebHQ/s1600/eparty3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MJVRcEpqe-U/VUErDyW47sI/AAAAAAAAKjM/kpTU21OebHQ/s1600/eparty3.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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D serenaded me with songs as D does on more than one occasion ;)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xw-kjjlOBfA/VUErEvidQkI/AAAAAAAAKjk/fVPFRyE2KEE/s1600/eparty4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xw-kjjlOBfA/VUErEvidQkI/AAAAAAAAKjk/fVPFRyE2KEE/s1600/eparty4.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KBriyqDGFxc/VUErEkSA-9I/AAAAAAAAKjg/ihFOrOKT0I4/s1600/eparty5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KBriyqDGFxc/VUErEkSA-9I/AAAAAAAAKjg/ihFOrOKT0I4/s1600/eparty5.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And overall it was such a lovely night. Our families have already gotten to know each other over the years since we've been together for a while, and because they get along so well, everyone had a blast. Some may have even had a little too much to drink! ;) When people have to spend the night at your place unexpectedly because they may have indulged in a few too many libations, you know it's been a great night! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xo Steph</div>
<br />
<br />pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-16372043899133892202015-05-05T07:30:00.000-04:002015-05-05T07:30:00.053-04:00Have a Fiesta at Home<div style="color: #464646; font-family: Cardo; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
Happy Cinco de Mayo people! A holiday devoted to eating Mexican food and drinking Corona -- I can get down with that! So of course, I need to share some party inspirations because, we all know I love to plan a festive and fabulous party. I swear, I live for holidays and theme parties -- why can't they be every day? Anyway here are some inspiration photos I pulled together from <a href="http://pinterest.com/sgee/" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">{Pinterest}</a>. If you want to recreate a Cinco de Mayo party like this yourself, all original sources can be found <a href="http://pinterest.com/sgee/cinco-de-mayo/" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">{here}</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EqLvNP73Dpc/UYAUtJRuNuI/AAAAAAAAHUs/EoWVElUoERA/s1600/1.JPG" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 0em !important; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EqLvNP73Dpc/UYAUtJRuNuI/AAAAAAAAHUs/EoWVElUoERA/s640/1.JPG" style="border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a></div>
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1. Festive chalkboard -- "Fiesta like there's no Manana"</div>
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2. Colorful plates</div>
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3. Fresh pico de gallo</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-djTXFFNLFT4/UYAUtuoL5mI/AAAAAAAAHU0/9rHV1RjJjes/s1600/2.JPG" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 0em !important; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-djTXFFNLFT4/UYAUtuoL5mI/AAAAAAAAHU0/9rHV1RjJjes/s640/2.JPG" style="border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a></div>
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4. Pink Grapefruit margaritas</div>
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5. Homemade guacamole served in a <a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?id=32599469&pid=uid9449-9227893-7&utm_medium=widget&utm_source=Product+Link" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 0em !important; text-decoration: none;">(mortar and pestle here)</a></div>
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8. Mexican corn with a squeeze of lime</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T1usiTsDeU0/UYAUtzoNkTI/AAAAAAAAHU4/h27bnYYqawo/s1600/3.JPG" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 0em !important; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T1usiTsDeU0/UYAUtzoNkTI/AAAAAAAAHU4/h27bnYYqawo/s640/3.JPG" style="border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a></div>
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7. Taco Bar chalkboard art</div>
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8. Ombre garlands for decor</div>
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9. mmmmm Taaaacos</div>
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10. Pinata cookies -- amazing.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JROL1xvIfAQ/UYAUxOHgS0I/AAAAAAAAHVE/WpYuuEDUz6Q/s1600/4.JPG" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 0em !important; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JROL1xvIfAQ/UYAUxOHgS0I/AAAAAAAAHVE/WpYuuEDUz6Q/s640/4.JPG" style="border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a><div class="pinit-wrapper" style="cursor: pointer; left: 225.90625px; opacity: 0; position: absolute; top: 2494.5px; visibility: visible; z-index: 9999;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/2014/05/entertain-cinco-de-mayo-fiesta.html&media=http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JROL1xvIfAQ/UYAUxOHgS0I/AAAAAAAAHVE/WpYuuEDUz6Q/s640/4.JPG&description=Entertain:%20Cinco%20de%20Mayo%20Fiesta" style="color: #ffbcbc; display: block; margin-left: 0em !important; outline: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><img class="pinimg" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h8OjR-enCxE/UZpwMDAuj8I/AAAAAAAAHdA/2-2oEqaLjSw/s1600/pinterest+pin+it+button.png" style="-webkit-box-shadow: none; border: 0px; box-shadow: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative;" title="Pin on Pinterest" /></a></div>
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11. Fuchsia peonies for pops of color</div>
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12. Stocked bar, including San Pellegrino (one of my new favs)</div>
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13. Margarita Lime cupcakes</div>
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<br />I'm be sure to enjoy a Corona Light with lime and some fresh guac today to make my Monday afternoon a little more special.</div>
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<b>What are your fun Cinco De Drinko plans for today?</b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="color: #464646; font-family: Cardo; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
xo Steph</div>
pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-1301607197701296932015-05-04T07:30:00.000-04:002015-05-04T07:30:00.312-04:00Fiesta Wear<div style="color: #464646; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px auto; width: 600px;">
<div style="position: relative; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In honor of Cinco de Mayo tomorrow, I thought it would be fun to share a very appropriate outfit for any type of fiesta you may be having! Whether you are hitting up a local Mexican restaurant, a happy hour after work, or hosting a small little dinner at your place, dress up in bright colors and soak in all the festivities. Just remember to have a Corona or margarita in hand…..of course!</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cinco_de_mayo_essentials/set?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=80637230" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><img alt="cinco de mayo essentials." border="0" height="775" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/3uqaiRJDprMFWjLzuBoUQ/cid/80637230/id/6r6KzoLuSGuerrdBqqq8_A/size/c600x775.jpg" style="border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" title="cinco de mayo essentials." width="600" /></a><div class="pinit-wrapper" style="cursor: pointer; left: 201px; opacity: 1; position: absolute; top: 351px; visibility: visible; z-index: 9999;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/2013/05/cinco-de-mayo-festivities-party-ideas.html&media=http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/3uqaiRJDprMFWjLzuBoUQ/cid/80637230/id/6r6KzoLuSGuerrdBqqq8_A/size/c600x775.jpg&description=Cinco%20de%20Mayo%20festivities%20&%20party%20ideas." style="color: #ffbcbc; display: block; outline: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><img class="pinimg" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h8OjR-enCxE/UZpwMDAuj8I/AAAAAAAAHdA/2-2oEqaLjSw/s1600/pinterest+pin+it+button.png" style="-webkit-box-shadow: none; border: 0px; box-shadow: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative;" title="Pin on Pinterest" /></a></div>
</div>
</div>
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<br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><small></small></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<b>// details //</b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
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<small><span style="font-size: x-small;">John Lewis maxi <a href="http://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Foldnavy.gap.com%2Fbrowse%2Fproduct.do%3Fcid%3D91343%26vid%3D1%26pid%3D387560032&pid=uid9449-9227893-7&utm_medium=widget&utm_source=Product+Link" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">(similar)</a> // <a href="http://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fus.asos.com%2Fcountryid%2F2%2FASOS-FLOCK-Leather-Flat-Sandals%2Fzy6h7%2F%3Fiid%3D2784990%26MID%3D35719%26affid%3D2135%26WT.tsrc%3DAffiliate%26siteID%3DHy3bqNL2jtQ-J0.SDEOb61QTW7S8Wi9cqA&pid=uid9449-9227893-7&utm_medium=widget&utm_source=Product+Link" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">Sandals</a> // <a href="http://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.toryburch.com%2FChunky-Straw-Clutch%2F21139903%2Cdefault%2Cpd.html%3Fdwvar_21139903_color%3D710%26start%3D5%26cgid%3Dhandbags-view-all&pid=uid9449-9227893-7&utm_medium=widget&utm_source=Product+Link" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">Straw clutch</a> <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=82319745" rel="nofollow" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;"></a> // Chloé <a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?id=428714038&pid=uid9449-9227893-7&utm_medium=widget&utm_source=Product+Link" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">round sunglasses </a>// Essie <a href="http://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.zappos.com%2Fessie-resort-2013-collection-of-nail-polish-come-here%3Fzlfid%3D2&pid=uid9449-9227893-7&utm_medium=widget&utm_source=Product+Link" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">nail polish</a> // <a href="http://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kohls.com%2Fproduct%2Fprd-1264877%2Fbobby-flay-hammered-acrylic-margarita-glass.jsp%3Fsrc%3Dk147466%26clickid%3D0004db9c16588b9d0ae0c2c190004f03&pid=uid9449-9227893-7&utm_medium=widget&utm_source=Product+Link" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">Bobby Flay Hammered Margarita Glasses</a> // <a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?id=15100941&pid=uid9449-9227893-7&utm_medium=widget&utm_source=Product+Link" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">Margarita shampoo & shower gel</a> // Chip & Dip for your guac <a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?id=422417368&pid=uid9449-9227893-7&utm_medium=widget&utm_source=Product+Link" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">(similar)</a></span></small></div>
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<small><br /></small></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<small><span style="font-size: small;"> D and I are actually going to see Slash in concert with our cousins and some friends. It's one of his rock idols (if you happen to remember our Halloween costume last year!) and I just love going to any type of concert. We are planning to hit up a local Mexican restaurant near the venue beforehand for dinner and drinks (Coronas of course) before we head to the show. </span></small></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<small><span style="font-size: small;">So what are your plans for tomorrow?</span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></small></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<small><span style="font-size: small;">xo Steph </span></small></div>
</div>
pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-48426749990622918002015-05-01T07:30:00.000-04:002015-05-01T07:30:00.057-04:00Forum Friday: Are Skinny Jeans on Their Way Out?<div style="text-align: center;">
Back in the day (and when I say that, I mean circa early 2000's when I was in college) we were all about the flared and boot cut jeans. That was what you wore. Pair that with a tight fitted camisole/embellished top, some pointy toe pumps and your Coach wristlet and you were ready for a night out my friends! Can anyone feel me on that one? Clearly styles change and cycle in and out. For a long time now, skinnies were and are all the rage. They are everywhere! I remember first hating the trend because I have less than stellar legs. More like muscular thick legs, but we works with what's given to us right? Anyway, I eventually hopped on board the skinny jean train because, duh - fashion!! </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t6FmnlS986Q/VUFGRZ7EA7I/AAAAAAAAKlc/wjAzv_c_UgQ/s1600/flare1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t6FmnlS986Q/VUFGRZ7EA7I/AAAAAAAAKlc/wjAzv_c_UgQ/s1600/flare1.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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But now I'm hearing skinny jeans are on their way our for……gasp, flared and boot cut jeans! If this is the case, sign me up because they have always been more flattering on me anyway. But what do you think? Are they on their way out? What are you seeing as the fashion trends in your social circles?</div>
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<br /></div>
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xo Steph</div>
<br />pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-5729289742244659122015-04-21T07:30:00.000-04:002015-04-21T07:30:01.761-04:00Let's Run Away….<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
<div style="position: relative;">
…to a beach vacation. Or tropical island. Or really anywhere warm and sunny…..and not here! I think we can all agree that this winter was a brutal one and left us all craving warm weather and sunshine. Lately, I have been dreaming about warm sandy beaches and a tropical drink in my hand. Do I need a vacation? You better believe it! But is it in out budget right now? That's to be determined. I'm trying to convince D to convince his boss that a few days off won't hurt anyone. I'd love to go to Hawaii but I know that sort of trip will be too costly right now. I'll settle for Florida or anywhere there is a beach. So until we get our vacation details settled, I'll just keep dreaming and share this little outfit, complete with pretty pinks and corals.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lets_run_away/set?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=155121376" target="_blank"><img alt="Let's Run Away" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/SRHiv4opB1MAXDrdQWoQ/cid/155121376/id/Xi7qzOze5BGPMQXaZFZllw/size/c600x580.jpg" height="580" title="Let's Run Away" width="600" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>// Details //</b></div>
<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
<br />
<small></small><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<small><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=133958342" rel="nofollow">Juliet Dunn mini dress</a>, $295 / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=131008891" rel="nofollow">J Crew swimsuits two piece</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=131010476" rel="nofollow">J Crew swimsuits two piece</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=134708423" rel="nofollow">Tory burch shoes</a>, $330 / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=128082588" rel="nofollow">Tory Burch leather handbag</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=125854478" rel="nofollow">Gorjana chain necklace</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=131578288" rel="nofollow">Gorjana chain necklace</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=123364012" rel="nofollow">Gorjana gold ring</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=133404245" rel="nofollow">Illesteva round sunglasses</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=126843643" rel="nofollow">Topshop black hat</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=134177481" rel="nofollow">Tech accessory</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=129531174" rel="nofollow">Charlotte Tilbury lips makeup</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=133871192" rel="nofollow">Nars cosmetic</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=126516831" rel="nofollow">Bobbi brown cosmetic</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=132192783" rel="nofollow">Tory Burch travel bag</a></span></small></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<small><br /></small></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<small><span style="font-size: small;">After this horrible winter, do any of you have vacation plans in the works? Please do share…..I might have to live vicariously through you! :)</span></small><br />
<small><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></small>
<small><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></small></div>
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</div>
pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-28868556532024696352015-04-20T07:30:00.000-04:002015-04-20T07:30:03.437-04:00Mani Monday: Zoya's "Sansa"<div style="text-align: center;">
I love a good mani like the next girl, and since getting engaged back in June, it's been that much more fun for me doing my nails and picking up fun and pretty colors to go with my engagement ring. Plus, there's nothing like a new bottle of nail polish that can really perk up your day! For $3.99, I'd say that's a steal if it will give you a smile on your face. Another thing I love about doing my nails is that I feel like it makes me look just a little more put together. I could be wearing sweat pants and a tee shirt, but if my nails are done, I feel like I still have my shit together ;) Am I right, or am I right? </div>
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My current color is <b>Zoya's "Sansa" </b>-- which is my little tribute to the new season of Game of Thrones being back. This color is a really gorgeous eggplant purple with hints of gold metallic shimmer. It's one of those colors that can look different depending on what kind of light you're in. And in case you've never heard of Zoya polish before, it is truly one of my obsessions. Not only do they have endless color choices, and their polishes are considered vegan/cruelty free and are free of<span style="font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.880001068115234px;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22.880001068115234px;">harmful chemicals and toxins including T</span><span style="line-height: 22.880001068115234px;">oluene, </span><span style="line-height: 22.880001068115234px;">Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde resin, </span><span style="line-height: 22.880001068115234px;">DBP (Phthalates) and Camphor. And a big plus to all those mama's to be out there, they are safe to use during pregnancy! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22.880001068115234px;"><b>Win, win, and Win!</b></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0U7gK-3gO8/VSbfvuA-yBI/AAAAAAAAKic/JwQe0DIFjXQ/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0U7gK-3gO8/VSbfvuA-yBI/AAAAAAAAKic/JwQe0DIFjXQ/s1600/unnamed.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rDp_i5m4vSU/VSbfv4JuHYI/AAAAAAAAKiY/wvvi8WKF9q0/s1600/unnamed2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rDp_i5m4vSU/VSbfv4JuHYI/AAAAAAAAKiY/wvvi8WKF9q0/s1600/unnamed2.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">you can get Zoya's Sansa color </span><a href="http://www.zoya.com/content/item/Zoya/Zoya-Nail-Polish-in-Sansa.html" style="text-align: start;">here</a>, plus so many other gorgeous colors I have on my wish list for spring and summer. Have you discovered Zoya nail polish yet?</div>
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What are your favorite nail polish brands and colors? Please share your polish addiction with me!!</div>
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xo Steph</div>
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<br />pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-91751769785796203592015-04-17T07:30:00.000-04:002015-04-17T07:30:02.819-04:00Friday Forum: Thoughts on Instagram, Facebook and social media over sharing?<div style="text-align: center;">
So today is my first attempt at the <b>"Friday Forum"</b> and I thought I'd start with a topic that is near and dear (literally) to us all, every second of the day. <b>Social Media.</b> As bloggers and blog readers, clearly we all have a connection and desire to WANT to share bits and pieces of our lives. We may all have different reasons to share whether it be to connect with others, as a medium to express yourself, or to have a creative outlet. But regardless, many of us share. While I blog and have a personal Facebook and Instagram page, I have been hesitant of opening up my Instagram to the blogging world. While I know many bloggers do share, I'm scared to do so and I don't know why. I have nothing to hide, and share the same pics on IG as I do on the blog. So why do I feel this way?</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NTh2779szO4/VSbZ301OKnI/AAAAAAAAKh8/duRdhs67crA/s1600/instagram-food-pictures-photos-meals-confession-ecards-someecards.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NTh2779szO4/VSbZ301OKnI/AAAAAAAAKh8/duRdhs67crA/s1600/instagram-food-pictures-photos-meals-confession-ecards-someecards.png" height="356" width="640" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YrKMgPlKc2w/VSbZ3q1XHCI/AAAAAAAAKiA/QdmXuXn6if0/s1600/1340156264291_7466096.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YrKMgPlKc2w/VSbZ3q1XHCI/AAAAAAAAKiA/QdmXuXn6if0/s1600/1340156264291_7466096.png" height="448" width="640" /></a></div>
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With our culture revolving around social media, do you think we are over sharing our lives? Do you over share? How do you think it has impacted your life -- both positively and negatively? Have you ever felt like you needed a social media break? Or did you just delete it from your life all together?Please share your thoughts with me and let the conversation begin :) xo<br />
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pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-40525043052760255942015-04-16T07:30:00.000-04:002015-04-16T07:30:00.683-04:00Healthy Breakfast: Egg & Avocado Toast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In attempts to lose weight for the wedding, and just to be overall healthier, I have been trying to make better food choices (notice I didn't say diet!). For a person who loves to eat, this can be difficult. But for me, it's all about finding healthy meal options you actually like, and sticking to them. </div>
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Enter: <b>the egg and avocado toast.</b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eRJWVV8gX9o/VSbSqYQcwOI/AAAAAAAAKho/TkRqtjJnrhg/s1600/avo%2Btoast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eRJWVV8gX9o/VSbSqYQcwOI/AAAAAAAAKho/TkRqtjJnrhg/s1600/avo%2Btoast.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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This breakfast or really anytime meal/snack is so quick and simple, it can be made before work. Now there is no excuse to hit up Dunkin' Donuts drive through. Here's what you need as well as the calorie counts, because counting calories on the My Fitness Pal app has really helped me as well. </div>
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<b>// Ingredients //</b><br />
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1 egg, over easy, medium or to your liking (70 calories)<br />
1/4 avocado (62 calories)<br />
1/2 Thomas' Whole Wheat Bagel Thin (55 calories)<br />
dashes of hot sauce to your liking (Zero calories. I love Frank's Red Hot Sauce - I really do put that shit on everything!)<br />
salt and pepper to taste<br />
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Cook your 1 egg to your liking while sticking half the bagel thin in the toaster. I season the fried egg in the pan with salt and pepper while it cooks. When your bagel is toasted, mash up a quarter avocado onto the bagel thin with a fork. You can obviously use toast too if you want, I just love these whole wheat bagel thins since they are lower in calories. Once your egg is cooked to perfection, place it on top of the avocado, and season with a dash (or more) of hot sauce. Nix the hot sauce if it's not your thing. I love it because it gives it a ton of flavor with no calories. But you could also top it with salsa if you want. And voila! A healthy breakfast/snack option that takes virtually no time to prepare. </div>
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<b>**Also a helpful tip for saving your avocado: keep the pit in the avocado and wrap it in plastic wrap. Your avocado won't turn all nasty and brown and will last you through 4 breakfasts of making this quickie dish**</b></div>
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Are you avocado obsessed like me? What are your go-to healthy breakfasts?</div>
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xo Steph</div>
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<br />pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-84772214057871164642015-04-15T07:30:00.000-04:002015-04-15T07:30:01.736-04:00Pretty Little Things is back, with some new changes too :)Hi guys! I'm back from an extremely long break and I'm ready to blog again. My apologies for going total radio silence on you all. As you can see, my last post was from THANKSGIVING, which is pitiful in itself and I have no excuses other than blogging was not a huge priority at the time. There had been a lot of changes in my life the past few months including moving to a new place in hopes to save money for our upcoming wedding. Guys, I'm getting married remember!? I'm currently making some career changes (that are in the works) as well, so there's that. In addition, my dad had open heart surgery back in January which was a scary and trying time for our family but he's doing better than ever so shout out dad for being one of the only readers still urging me to bring the blog back! When he was out of work and at home on the mend he would constantly complain about how his favorite blog called "Pretty Little Things" just kind of vanished off the internet grid, without so much of an explanation. Well, here I am dad, and readers. Thanks for everyone who is still around and wants to read my daily inspirations, sharing of pretty little things and ramblings.<br />
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I also included old pics of me doing style and outfit posts. Just in case you forgot what I looked like ;)</div>
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With that being said, while not blogging I've thought about incorporating a few new things on the blog. We'll have a new structure with themed posts based on the day. <b>Here's what the new Pretty Little Things looks like:</b><br />
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<b>Mondays: Beauty!</b> I've been wanting to start doing beauty posts about my favorite products, reviews, and overall love of all things girly. While I'm no beauty maven or expert, I thought it would be fun to share my opinions, personal finds and thoughts on products. I'll be sure to share any beauty inspirations too!<br />
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<b>Tuesdays: Style Tuesday.</b> Style and fashion was a staple on my blog for a while now and this will continue to be shared on Tuesdays. I'll include my personal outfits as well as styled outfits and links where to find similar items. Need help getting dressed this morning? The Style tab will be your place for daily inspiration. Consider it an extension of your closet!<br />
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<b>Wednesdays: Wedding Wednesday! </b>Ok bear with me guys. For those of you who are nauseated by the thought of women talking about all things weddings, this will be your heads up to avoid me on Wednesdays (but please don't!! Insert sad face here). I assure you my blog will never turn into a wedding blog. However, planning our wedding is a big part of my life right now and I wanted to share details here and there, as well as getting advice from you all. Plus to be honest, it's just a really exciting time in my life right now and I wanted a place to share it all. So there you have it, Wedding Wednesday :)<br />
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<b>Thursdays: FOOD. </b>Food has always and will always play a large part in my life. I am a self proclaimed foodie who loves to share new recipes, party and entertaining ideas, healthy and not so healthy food options (life is all about moderation, right?) So I will continue to share food posts because, who doesn't love gazing a delicious food porn pics, right?<br />
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<b>Friday: Forum Friday. </b>Ok, this is a new idea I'm excited about. One thing I missed about blogging is the dialogue and conversation I can have with others. I want my blogging interactions to go much farther than the simple "great post, love the outfit" comments. I want to ENGAGE in conversation and topics with you all. Some serious, some silly, and some in between. But on Fridays, I thought my idea of "Forum Friday" would be a great way to discuss topics, share differing ideas and viewpoints, and continue the conversation into the weekend. Almost like a community. Sound good? Yeah, I thought so too ;)<br />
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So that's what's been going on with me. What going on with all of you? What are your thoughts on the new blog changes?<br />
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xo Steph<br />
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<br />pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-5346398141458896972014-11-26T07:30:00.000-05:002014-11-26T07:30:02.824-05:00Turkey Day Eve<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Turkey Day Eve everyone! Are we all ready to savor in all the Thanksgiving foods tomorrow? I know I am. I will have my stretchy pants all ready to go. Because for me, Thanksgiving is all about comfort and the side dishes. Yup, that's right. I could eat a full plate of just sides if you let me. I little mashed potatoes & gravy, corn, biscuits and the stuffing. Oh, the stuffing that my family makes is simply THE best. Unrivaled by any other stuffing I've ever eaten. I can't wait for it :) Can you tell I'm just a little excited for it? Followed by a carb induced coma on the couch, while watching football, by the fire. Heaven I tell you!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Cardo; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=96868493" rel="nofollow" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">J Crew j crew top</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=98060919" rel="nofollow" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">Sweater</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=96559427" rel="nofollow" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">Grey shirt</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=95761607" rel="nofollow" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">Helmut Lang black stretch pants</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=97558872" rel="nofollow" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">Minnetonka brown suede shoes</a>, $145 / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=95811029" rel="nofollow" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">J Crew j crew scarf</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=98125082" rel="nofollow" style="color: #ffbcbc; text-decoration: none;">Sweet Potato Pie Thanksgiving Collection</a></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Do what will you be wearing tomorrow for Thanksgiving dinner?<br />Do you dress it up or keep it comfy? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">xo Steph</span></div>
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pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-3693870782344476762014-11-25T10:04:00.001-05:002014-11-25T10:04:26.006-05:00Last Month in Salem<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A midst all my busyness, I've forgotten to share my most recent check off my life bucket list: <b>visiting Salem, MA</b> during the month of October. D and I went up to Salem with another couple and friends of ours and it was suuuuuch a fun trip. Like seriously, Salem during October is like this little Halloween-town where all the spirits and ghosts come out, and everyone's love for Halloween is celebrated. I highly recommend to anyone who is Halloween obsessed or who even loves history. Because the city is rich in history. But first up, we took a quick stop into Boston....<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bjj5ucjDqh8/VHSPsXbjraI/AAAAAAAAKX4/N0l4qHHVrg0/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bjj5ucjDqh8/VHSPsXbjraI/AAAAAAAAKX4/N0l4qHHVrg0/s1600/2.jpg" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
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Beers from Cheers. Obviously.</div>
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Where everybody knows your name....</div>
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We did a quick stop for beer and dinner. And of course lobster rolls, because when you're in New England, you must get the lobster rolls. It's a rule!</div>
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We booked hotels about 20 minutes outside Boston and Salem which had these charming little fireplaces that totally added to vibe of the weekend. We sipped authentic Boston micro brews by the fire and read up on all the fun, and haunted happenings of the weekend to come. </div>
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The next day the first stop was the Salem Witch Museum. Which from the outside just oozes creepiness and hauntings. The actual history of the Salem Witch Trials is fascinating, so if you know nothing about it, I suggest definitely grabbing a book and reading up on it. Crazy!!</div>
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Some of the original architecture and buildings are still there from the 1600's. The cemetery below is actually the 2nd oldest cemetery in the country and has people from the original Mayflower voyage buried there. Pretty crazy stuff! D the history buff loved it. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-raJO_o1KTz4/VHSPuAgracI/AAAAAAAAKYg/2oWHSbU2B1g/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-raJO_o1KTz4/VHSPuAgracI/AAAAAAAAKYg/2oWHSbU2B1g/s1600/9.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Midway during the day, we stopped off at Salem Brew Works for some lunch and tasty Massachusetts brewed craft beers. My favorite was the blueberry ale beer which they garnished with fresh blueberries. Along with their blueberry ale, their pumpkin pie ale with rimmed graham cracker crust was a close second. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MIRd5Pho3QA/VHSPsYQK9aI/AAAAAAAAKX8/dET_rspcVXw/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MIRd5Pho3QA/VHSPsYQK9aI/AAAAAAAAKX8/dET_rspcVXw/s1600/10.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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And last but not least, we got to meet Michael Meyers. As in THE Michael Meyers....the one who played the psycho killer from the original Halloween movie (my favorite Halloween/scary movie of all times!) We got his autographs and pictures with him. Creative D even thought it would be cool to have Michael Meyers (aka his real name is Tony Moran) strangle him, which made for great photo ops! So overall we had an awesome time and are even thinking of making it a yearly tradition :)</div>
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Anyone else ever been to Salem before? Or intrigued by the Salem Witch Trials like I am?</div>
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xo Steph</div>
pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-43873783746694735632014-11-17T10:19:00.001-05:002014-11-17T10:19:04.304-05:00Don't Forget About Thanksgiving<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #464646; line-height: 18.4799995422363px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So are you one to decorate for Thanksgiving or have you already fast-forwarded to Christmas? Confession: one of my biggest pet peeves is putting your Christmas stuff up for Thanksgiving. What happened to Thanksgiving? When did Thanksgiving become the red headed step child of holidays that gets no love? Thanksgiving for me has always been one of my favorite holidays as a kid, so I think its important to give it it's day, complete with festive, harvesty decor and enjoy the day for what it is: being thankful! And don't worry, I have NO problem breaking out the Christmas stuff on black friday. In fact, we're going out as a family to get our Christmas tree on Friday. Just like the Griswald family cutting down their tree. Let's just hope Todd and Margo don't spoil all our fun ; )</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">all original sources can be found on my Thanksgiving board on my Pinterest page : )</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gm89ms7pcAc/UpSAGnr_aLI/AAAAAAAAI5g/sAt4AZeBADQ/s1600/thanks1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gm89ms7pcAc/UpSAGnr_aLI/AAAAAAAAI5g/sAt4AZeBADQ/s640/thanks1.jpg" style="background: transparent; border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="640" /></span></a><div class="pinit-wrapper" style="cursor: pointer; left: 225.90625px; opacity: 0; position: absolute; top: 427.5px; visibility: visible; z-index: 9999;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/2013/11/decorating-for-thanksgiving.html&media=http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gm89ms7pcAc/UpSAGnr_aLI/AAAAAAAAI5g/sAt4AZeBADQ/s640/thanks1.jpg&description=decorating%20for%20thanksgiving" style="color: #ffbcbc; display: block; margin-left: 0em !important; outline: none; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img class="pinimg" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h8OjR-enCxE/UZpwMDAuj8I/AAAAAAAAHdA/2-2oEqaLjSw/s1600/pinterest+pin+it+button.png" style="-webkit-box-shadow: none; background: transparent; border: 0px; box-shadow: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative;" title="Pin on Pinterest" /></span></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> | Decor |</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. spray leaves gold and write names for pretty name cards</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. gold leaves also look gorgeous on white pumpkins</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">3. LOVE this entryway with the cornstalks, mums, and pumpkins galore</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0DZelUNjZEw/UpSAGl6PpGI/AAAAAAAAI5c/HDwBmaj8VKk/s1600/thanks2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0DZelUNjZEw/UpSAGl6PpGI/AAAAAAAAI5c/HDwBmaj8VKk/s640/thanks2.jpg" style="background: transparent; border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">4. baskets of pumpkins and gourds for simple arrangements</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">5. stencil "give thanks" on a white pumpkin</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">6. love this thankful burlap banner</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pghQWgNSyDE/UpSAHKBSwnI/AAAAAAAAI5s/ZtobrPK71nE/s1600/thanks3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pghQWgNSyDE/UpSAHKBSwnI/AAAAAAAAI5s/ZtobrPK71nE/s640/thanks3.jpg" style="background: transparent; border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a> 7. frame printables in simple frames</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">8. Thanksgiving sangria</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">9. These Thanksgiving plates are adorable</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">10. use candles and bittersweets for decor</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WR100J9CtYk/UpSAG7WY8VI/AAAAAAAAI5k/k96thQC_jcw/s1600/thanks4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WR100J9CtYk/UpSAG7WY8VI/AAAAAAAAI5k/k96thQC_jcw/s640/thanks4.jpg" style="background: transparent; border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">| Make Yearly Traditions |</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">11. make a pumpkin "snow man" with the kids and have a contest to see who builds the best one</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">12. make someone wear the turkey hat for whoever shows up the latest to the party</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">13. have a pumpking smashing party after dinner to work off that turkey coma. Plus its a fun way to symbolically go out with the pumpkins and in with the pine trees : )</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">So do you all decorate for Thanksgiving or have you turned your house into a winter wonderland already?</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">xo Steph</span></div>
pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-38079252926884380422014-11-05T07:30:00.000-05:002014-11-05T07:30:03.230-05:00November Cravings<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
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November is finally here and it's one of my favorite months. For one thing, I work in a school in New Jersey and we have what's known as "NJ Teachers Convention" -- so we get the first Thursday and Friday of the month off. Who doesn't love a four day weekend? Add that to Thanksgiving vacation this month, and November tends to FLY by. Plus now that Halloween is over, it's now ok to have the holidays on the brain and get in the festive mood. Christmas music is officially acceptable to be played. Holiday shopping can be started. Merriment and joy can officially be smelled in the air :) And now that it's gotten much colder, I've been craving some warm and cozy clothes to get me through. I've been really attracted to the red, black and white combo lately and loving wine colored nails. And P.S. red cups are officially out and about. That means business people :) Here are some pieces that I'm currently craving to add to my wardrobe.</div>
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/november_craves/set?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=139404661" target="_blank"><img alt="november craves" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/qyo16o5t9f6fOeuB5spkvg/cid/139404661/id/2rd7YLFj5BG5gFE6q2AFrA/size/c600x534.jpg" height="534" title="november craves" width="600" /></a></div>
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<small><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=115838375" rel="nofollow">Equipment black zip sweater</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=115058776" rel="nofollow">Even odd red sleeveless vest</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=118999866" rel="nofollow">Acne Studios highwaisted skinny jeans</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=119116426" rel="nofollow">Tory Burch brown leather bootie</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=120734798" rel="nofollow">Michael Kors drawstring shoulder bag</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=117614680" rel="nofollow">Gorjana chevron bracelet</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=111956473" rel="nofollow">Gorjana trio ring</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=104544791" rel="nofollow">Yves Saint Laurent brown lens sunglasses</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=121643907" rel="nofollow">Kate Spade tech accessory</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=90258910" rel="nofollow">Cream nail polish</a></span></small></div>
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What have you been craving lately?</div>
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Are the holidays on your mind yet?</div>
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xo Steph</div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D5982406245442992570%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dheader&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fcfc.polyvoreimg.com%252Fcgi%252Fimg-set%252F.sig%252Fqyo16o5t9f6fOeuB5spkvg%252Fcid%252F139404661%252Fid%252F2rd7YLFj5BG5gFE6q2AFrA%252Fsize%252Fc600x534.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=november%20craves" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 52px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 234px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D5982406245442992570%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dheader&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fcfc.polyvoreimg.com%252Fcgi%252Fimg-set%252F.sig%252Fqyo16o5t9f6fOeuB5spkvg%252Fcid%252F139404661%252Fid%252F2rd7YLFj5BG5gFE6q2AFrA%252Fsize%252Fc600x534.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=november%20craves" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 52px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 234px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-58501742804709586392014-11-04T07:30:00.000-05:002014-11-04T07:30:01.778-05:00Halloween Recap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Keeping my promise over here and sharing some of my Halloween pics from the weekend :) So first off, you know D and I LOVE Halloween. Well actually, I love Halloween and D inadvertently had to either start loving it or, well, start loving it. Needless to say, he's on board for dressing up for Halloween for the rest of our years. And I love that!</div>
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But here is the unveiling of our 2014 costume. And no, we are not an Italian stereotype and a artsy hipster. </div>
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<b>We are Rocky and Adrian from…….Rocky!</b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nzYZqa1lw5Q/VFgFLh7xR4I/AAAAAAAAKWY/r0xKy73rcO0/s1600/unnamed-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nzYZqa1lw5Q/VFgFLh7xR4I/AAAAAAAAKWY/r0xKy73rcO0/s1600/unnamed-20.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>"YOOOOOO Adriannnn!!"</b></div>
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And for those of you who are not familiar with the movie or reference, here is a picture below from the original Rocky movie we were trying to channel. Usually when people do Rocky costumes, they do the typical "Rocky in his boxing gear" or "Rocky in his work out gray sweatpants." As for Adrian, who ever dresses up as Adrian? Well I do because if you know the movie, Adrian is pretty kick ass. So we went as Rocky in his sweet leather jacket and mousey "pet shop" Adrian, complete with short hair and cat eye glasses. Shown below :)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3NbLWA4grsA/VFgJs2-nC7I/AAAAAAAAKW8/7bPY6OgFlgw/s1600/unnamed-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3NbLWA4grsA/VFgJs2-nC7I/AAAAAAAAKW8/7bPY6OgFlgw/s1600/unnamed-24.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dCL7pmkwY7U/VFgFLqu9NhI/AAAAAAAAKWU/HD_s2zoIDFY/s1600/unnamed-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dCL7pmkwY7U/VFgFLqu9NhI/AAAAAAAAKWU/HD_s2zoIDFY/s1600/unnamed-21.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Of course our chalkboard wall had to get some love too.</div>
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Halloween in HoBOOken :)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AMxLWfP3fmQ/VFgFLvx2cvI/AAAAAAAAKWQ/jMIfeOT2nPY/s1600/1381597_10100345600685687_4654609693270559670_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AMxLWfP3fmQ/VFgFLvx2cvI/AAAAAAAAKWQ/jMIfeOT2nPY/s1600/1381597_10100345600685687_4654609693270559670_n.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Group shot before we went out. We had a birthday girl and her piñata, Rocky and Adrian, and Goose from Top Gun.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6VXIBPZWsLE/VFgFMX2IW2I/AAAAAAAAKWc/KmxA9bypAOM/s1600/unnamed-23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6VXIBPZWsLE/VFgFMX2IW2I/AAAAAAAAKWc/KmxA9bypAOM/s1600/unnamed-23.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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Check out D's shiner I gave him. </div>
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it's pretty amazing what you can do with a little purple eye shadow!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y9OZSHJ9xNE/VFgFMEGYX8I/AAAAAAAAKWw/RKWYevtll-M/s1600/unnamed-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y9OZSHJ9xNE/VFgFMEGYX8I/AAAAAAAAKWw/RKWYevtll-M/s1600/unnamed-22.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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This was one of our easiest Halloween costumes to date. I owned all the clothes to make my costume, and D's pieces were all straight out of my dad's closet haha. I was really worried a lot of people wouldn't "get" who we were -- because let's face it, if we weren't standing together the costume doesn't make sense. But surprisingly we got soooo many compliments and people just loved it!</div>
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So how was your Halloween? I'm always a little bummed when it's over, but at the same time the trifecta of holidays for me is just beginning. Now on to Thanksgiving……</div>
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xo Steph</div>
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<a href="" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-42562700899472676792014-10-31T07:30:00.000-04:002014-10-31T07:31:42.874-04:00<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #464646; font-family: Cardo; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<b>HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!</b> Ok, now that I have your attention, first things first. I'm the worst. I said I was going to be blogging away this month and October has been a huge fail in that regard. Well, only a fail in that I haven't actually sat down with my computer to blog -- but a huge WIN that I did sooooo many fun things this month, I have tons of cool stuff to share with you in the next days and weeks coming up. PROMISE! So to ease myself into the blogging world, and in celebration of one of my favorite holidays, we will recap the last few years of Halloween costumes because -- Halloween costumes are kind of my thing. My jam. I just love dressing up and being someone else for the night. So take a look at years past and enjoy your Halloween weekend :)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Un-8AuVzWO4/UIsUArk4n0I/AAAAAAAAD5c/MJ3ZVzbvn8k/s1600/74897_593378857287_2170509_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 0em !important; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Un-8AuVzWO4/UIsUArk4n0I/AAAAAAAAD5c/MJ3ZVzbvn8k/s640/74897_593378857287_2170509_n.jpg" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="480" /></a><div class="pinit-wrapper" style="cursor: pointer; left: 226px; opacity: 0; position: absolute; top: 4292.5px; visibility: hidden; z-index: 9999;">
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2010 was my first Halloween with D and I LOVED our costumes -- <b>Popeye and Olive Oil!</b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gmOXRRrCqfY/UIsUAPePKLI/AAAAAAAAD5U/kZaNROhFJmw/s1600/74883_593380419157_6687848_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 0em !important; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gmOXRRrCqfY/UIsUAPePKLI/AAAAAAAAD5U/kZaNROhFJmw/s640/74883_593380419157_6687848_n.jpg" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a></div>
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Kisses for my sweet sailor.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bPPNnzmN63k/UIsT_nVg3pI/AAAAAAAAD5M/9uVJCnBaH7w/s1600/74383_593379276447_2999681_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 0em !important; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bPPNnzmN63k/UIsT_nVg3pI/AAAAAAAAD5M/9uVJCnBaH7w/s640/74383_593379276447_2999681_n.jpg" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="468" /></a></div>
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That year, my brother showed up in a costume you might remember from a popular SNL skit.</div>
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I'll leave that up to you whether you catch the reference or not!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mQAGxPFiu2g/UIsT_O_ArmI/AAAAAAAAD5E/3UHNyWUQ7k0/s1600/379028_690624326587_663498485_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 0em !important; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mQAGxPFiu2g/UIsT_O_ArmI/AAAAAAAAD5E/3UHNyWUQ7k0/s640/379028_690624326587_663498485_n.jpg" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="480" /></a></div>
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Halloween 2011 D and I went as<b> Mario and Luigi from Super Mario brothers.</b> This was the year we had that weird blizzard in October -- and yet we still managed to call a cab, and head to the bar for our party like a bunch of crazy people! We went out with D's cousin and her boyfriend (who went as Publisher's Clearing House winners -- complete with giant check) and could you believe it -- they actually won the costume contest and won $500!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VQ6Is6uqSyo/UI2KnKVGVPI/AAAAAAAAD9M/WPS5TOY2n9s/s1600/photo-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 0em !important; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VQ6Is6uqSyo/UI2KnKVGVPI/AAAAAAAAD9M/WPS5TOY2n9s/s640/photo-6.JPG" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="480" /></a></div>
This year, D and I went as <b>us in 50 years. Basically a grumpy old couple.</b> It was a hit at the bar and I have to say -- I was the most comfortable Halloween costume I ever wore. A mumu and slippers from Sears was clearly the way to go. D got his whole costume from our local Goodwill.<br /><b>This will also be known as the Halloween of Hurricane Sandy.</b><br />The hurricane hit us only a few days after these pics were taken....<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nKzGb7tNu30/UI2Kq2GEBhI/AAAAAAAAD9k/ssjYHFqR880/s1600/photo-9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 0em !important; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nKzGb7tNu30/UI2Kq2GEBhI/AAAAAAAAD9k/ssjYHFqR880/s640/photo-9.JPG" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our friends went as Double Dare -- and they really went all out. They even had fake slide to put in their helmets! Unfortunately they weren't even nominated for best costume like they were last year so that was a bummer -- boo.</div>
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Halloween 2013. EPIC WIN! I left it up to D so pick this years costume and since Guns n Roses is one of his favorite bands -- Axl Rose and Slash it was. Admittedly I was a little skeptical, but our costumes were so easy to recreate and such a hit at the bar, we even won second place at a costume contest at a local bar. I'm only slightly bitter because 1st place was $500, while 2nd place was a stainless steel cooler. An awesome stainless cooler, but at the end of the day, it is a cooler. And not filled with $500. But probably one Halloween we had the most fun!</div>
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D even brought he real guitar out to make the costume complete.<br style="text-align: start;" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-APQ54w6F3zs/UnathTkvAAI/AAAAAAAAI18/nLVZlHU6RhA/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 0em !important; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-APQ54w6F3zs/UnathTkvAAI/AAAAAAAAI18/nLVZlHU6RhA/s640/1.jpg" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="480" /></a></div>
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Please, no flash photography.</div>
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ROCK OUT.</div>
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Our family and friends also represented with awesome costumes including Pulp Fiction and The Price is Right contestants.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a30syVNwDx8/UnathmTKbnI/AAAAAAAAI2E/f_1r8xOH0HQ/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #ffbcbc; margin-left: 0em !important; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a30syVNwDx8/UnathmTKbnI/AAAAAAAAI2E/f_1r8xOH0HQ/s640/2.jpg" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid transparent; padding: 0px; position: relative;" width="640" /></a></div>
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At the end of the night D even got to go up on stage with the cover band to channel his inner rock star.</div>
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Welcome to the jungle anyone??</div>
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So there you have it. A round up of a few Halloween's past. Stay tuned for this weekend's costume.</div>
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Any guess what we might be?</div>
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Happy Halloween friends ;)</div>
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pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-30461275647523352002014-10-01T08:31:00.000-04:002014-10-01T08:31:08.121-04:00Hello, October!<div style="text-align: center;">
First off, hi! I'm back from the radio silence (otherwise known as the month of September!) and I'm so sorry I've let blogging go to the way side, but the start of this school year has been ROUGH to say the least. Things are finally starting to calm down and I feel like I can get my head above water now. Which is great, because it's just in time for my absolute favorite month........</div>
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<b>Happy October everyone!! </b> </div>
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October, let me count the ways why I love so: the changing of the leaves from green to vibrant reds, oranges and golden yellows (the reds are my personal favorite!), the crisp fall air, cozy over-sized sweaters, chunky knit scarves, boots, bonfires, football season and tailgating, apple picking, hot and fresh farm stand cider, pumpkin picking, carving, and decorating......ok, just pumpkin everything. Including the coveted pumpkin spice latte (Dunkin is preferred over Starbucks), Cheers to Oktoberfest, and fall flavored beers, scary movies, haunted houses and hayrides (D has a love/hate relationship with these - but always ends up going anyway), Halloween, and preparing this years Halloween costumes (because you know, costumes are kind of my thing!) Finally booking a weekend trip up to Salem, MA for a weekend filled with witch hunts and scary ghost tours. The return of scary fall TV shows like American Horror Story and The Walking Dead......and hopefully the final installment of the Paranormal Activity movies (D and my yearly tradition) And lastly, we're having our engagement party this month! So many fun things to look forward to (and blog about), so I promise more blogging coming your way.I just hope I have enough time to fit in all my October fun :)</div>
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xo Steph</div>
pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-51330477472183793502014-08-27T07:30:00.000-04:002014-08-27T07:30:02.571-04:00My Early Fall Wish List<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
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Some may say that it's too early to thinking about fall, and fall fashion, and pumpkin everything….but then you work in a school -- back to school time = fall. I'm back to work this week getting my office ready and then after labor day is the students first day back. And then it's all over. School and fall will be in full swing for me. But it's always been a favorite time of year for me, even as a kid. Back to school time signaled something in the brain of exciting new beginnings. What will my new schedule look like? Who are my new teachers? Will my friends be in my classes? And of course, the fall clothes. My mom always treated my brother and I to some new clothes for school to keep you looking stylish and fresh. And for me, that tradition even as an adult has never worn off. These days my shopping has been really scaled down (being that we have that whole saving for a wedding thing coming up) so I have to pick my new items carefully. Rather than getting a whole new wardrobe, I'll be adding a few pieces to freshen up my overall look, and add some fun fall touches. Here is a look of what's on my fall wish list: </div>
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/fall_wish_list/set?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=132698181" target="_blank"><img alt="Fall Wish List" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/4ginMgR8sv4R1kPStcSA/cid/132698181/id/JiL6hXMp5BGvoNugZFZllw/size/c600x533.jpg" height="533" title="Fall Wish List" width="600" /></a></div>
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<small><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=114907026" rel="nofollow">Red button up shirt</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=115943930" rel="nofollow">J Crew quilted vest</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=116871012" rel="nofollow">7 For All Mankind jeans</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=113983209" rel="nofollow">Tory Burch genuine leather boots</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=90068573" rel="nofollow">Kate Spade ring</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=116839409" rel="nofollow">J Crew hat</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=111213069" rel="nofollow">Kate Spade tech accessory</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=116812356" rel="nofollow">Parfum fragrance</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=114817780" rel="nofollow">kate spade new york 2014-15 Medium Agenda</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=115640263" rel="nofollow">Pumpkin candle</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=115793591" rel="nofollow">Pumpkin candle</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=112877815" rel="nofollow">Pier 1 Imports colored tealight candle</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=114835958" rel="nofollow">Nail lacquer</a></span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-size: small;"><b>1. Fall Scents.</b> I usually do a big candle/fragrance haul from Bath and Body Works when I have a coupon. I stock up on my favorite fall candles (Pumpkin Apple, Pumpkin Sugared Doughnut and Pumpkin Pecan Waffle are my favorites) and also invest in those plug in wall flowers to keep my home and my office smelling yummy. The kids especially love my scented office, and I think the scents seem to calm them down when they get stressed out. Perfect for school counselors everywhere. </span></small><br />
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<small><span style="font-size: small;"><b>2. New Boots.</b> Let's get one thing straight. Fall = boots. I've been wanting a nice pair of Tory Burch boots for a while now, and if I can find a pair to fit over my <strike>wide</strike> athletic calves, I'm going to have to splurge. </span></small><br />
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<small><span style="font-size: small;"><b>3. Classic Fall Essentials.</b> Such as this black quilted vest and buffalo check button down. These will literally never go out of style, and depending on how well you take care of your clothes, you can wear these pieces for years and years to come. </span></small><br />
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<small><span style="font-size: small;"><b>4. Dark Nail Polish.</b> Oh how I live for the dark rich colors of fall nail polish! It's really the little things that get me excited people! My all time favorite fall color is Essie's Wicked, which is a dark burgundy/chocolate color that flatters any skin tone. But I'm going to try out some new colors as well. I'm kinda loving the idea of slate gray nails for fall as well. </span></small><br />
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<b>5. New Cell Phone Case and Accessories. </b>When you are on a limited budget, the best way to freshen up a look with with cheap accessories. So swap your cell phone case out to something fun and fresh, or get a new piece of jewelry. It will make any old outfit feel new again.<br />
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<b>6. New Fragrance.</b> Colder weather means you can wear heavier, warmers scents. So it's always good to swap out your fragrance. I love Chanel's Coco Noir as my fall/winter scent because it is a richer scent but I'm also intrigued that J.Crew just came out with a fragrance, and in a portable rollerball form, so I'll be sure to check that one out!<br />
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<b>7. New Planner.</b> Because I'm a school counselor my brain functions on an academic calendar instead of the typical Jan-Dec calendar, I am always shopping around for a new planner for the beginning of fall. As I mentioned in <a href="http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/2014/07/love-lately-summer-edition.html">this post</a>, I splurged on the Whitney English Day Designer and I am in LOVE with it. Such a nerd I am, but #sorryimnotsorry. I am already loving how productive I am when I use it, and I can not wait to use it at work as well! The Kate Spade planner above is also adorable and has a similar aesthetic with the black and white stripes as the Day Designer. </div>
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<small><span style="font-size: small;">So what is on your fall wish list this year?</span></small><br />
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<small><span style="font-size: small;">xo Steph</span></small></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 52px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 270px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 52px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 270px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-83799132923555167802014-08-25T07:30:00.000-04:002014-08-25T07:30:01.736-04:00Life Lately: Summer Stragglers <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cleaning out the iPhone, I found a bunch of summer stragglers that I'd thought I could share on the blog. Old pics from a vintage car show D and I went to with his family, and old recipe I intended to share on the blog, and other random stuff. So enjoy this post of complete randomness.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AAZ_8KPXeSs/U_dJjDYYxgI/AAAAAAAAJ54/ukgYEk-cu-c/s1600/photo%2B4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AAZ_8KPXeSs/U_dJjDYYxgI/AAAAAAAAJ54/ukgYEk-cu-c/s1600/photo%2B4.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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A few weeks ago at the Monmouth Race Track Vintage car show. I say we bring back the days of the drive-in movie? How charming is this little tray of drive-in food. Who's with me??<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ioGq8u-RcOQ/U_dJiA5-XZI/AAAAAAAAJ5k/Mi6GIkR-J8U/s1600/photo%2B3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ioGq8u-RcOQ/U_dJiA5-XZI/AAAAAAAAJ5k/Mi6GIkR-J8U/s1600/photo%2B3.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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I think red might be his color :)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pHr88kj4U-U/U_dJkn1fBVI/AAAAAAAAJ6A/f3fs9rW2HgU/s1600/photo%2B5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pHr88kj4U-U/U_dJkn1fBVI/AAAAAAAAJ6A/f3fs9rW2HgU/s1600/photo%2B5.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d2gEubIyUtA/U_dJg7UEZpI/AAAAAAAAJ5Q/i1ZXmmJNi30/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d2gEubIyUtA/U_dJg7UEZpI/AAAAAAAAJ5Q/i1ZXmmJNi30/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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And then I forgot to share <a href="http://m.allrecipes.com/recipe/44742/marinated-baked-pork-chops">this recipe</a> for marinated pork chops, which by the way, was banging!! It was kind of like a mix of tangy BBQ/Asian inspired. I usually never cook pork (I don't know why, just always stick with chicken) and I rarely play around with making my own marinades. But to avoid the dinner blahs I got bored and found this marinade recipe on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/sgee/boards/">pinterest</a> -- and it was a total hit! Not only was it delicious and D and I both loved it, but I had all the ingredients on hand to make the marinade/sauce. So it was soooooo simple. I'm hoping to make this recipe again with chicken, and making extra sauce to to drizzle on top of veggies or my mashed cauliflower shown here. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7rYAmvv-hwY/U_dJgIfkyhI/AAAAAAAAJ5I/SS7eHQNo60I/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7rYAmvv-hwY/U_dJgIfkyhI/AAAAAAAAJ5I/SS7eHQNo60I/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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Did I mention mashed cauliflower is the most amazing substitute for mashed potatoes?? It's the easiest thing ever, and guilt free when I feel like I want to carboload on a big bowl of mashed potatoes. A big bowl of mashed cauliflower seems like the perfect option!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K_3LmmXuufo/U_dJglpuVAI/AAAAAAAAJ5M/sCEmSX_BZsk/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K_3LmmXuufo/U_dJglpuVAI/AAAAAAAAJ5M/sCEmSX_BZsk/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Breaded chicken cutlets topped with fresh arugula, fresh mozzarella, roma tomatoes and drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette. I got this dish titled "Chicken Guiseppe" the other day while dining with some girlfriends and I became obsessed. This is on my to-do list of dishes to recreate at home. </div>
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I also polished the entire thing off :)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FODs3Eic6NM/U_dJhynMkqI/AAAAAAAAJ5g/vFicrygUpr4/s1600/photo%2B3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FODs3Eic6NM/U_dJhynMkqI/AAAAAAAAJ5g/vFicrygUpr4/s1600/photo%2B3.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Super moon over NYC.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3WpIqNLY1io/U_dJi8sc9FI/AAAAAAAAJ5o/jKyqtgp-0r4/s1600/photo%2B4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3WpIqNLY1io/U_dJi8sc9FI/AAAAAAAAJ5o/jKyqtgp-0r4/s1600/photo%2B4.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Does anyone else's dog like to spoon? Or is my dog the only weirdo??</div>
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But I have to admit, she is one of the best snuggle partners you will ever meet!!</div>
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Happy Monday friends!</div>
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xo Steph</div>
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<br />pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-67809198493337007732014-08-21T07:30:00.000-04:002014-08-21T07:30:00.302-04:00How I've been Spending my Summer Days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've been vary fortunate to have time off this summer from work (ahhhh the perks of working in a school) so I've been using that time to catch up with friends, eat lots of good food, and visit with some of my friend's new born babies. It serisouly been the summer of babies I tell you!! Anyway, here's a little peak of what's been going on around here. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a7-kKfd6Gyw/U_S0RiXyZ1I/AAAAAAAAJ4k/ZbwHE8ntdrg/s1600/photo%2B4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a7-kKfd6Gyw/U_S0RiXyZ1I/AAAAAAAAJ4k/ZbwHE8ntdrg/s1600/photo%2B4.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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I took a trip up to CT and finally got a chance to visit my best friend's baby. Isn't he just the cutest?? </div>
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He has years of spoiling ahead from this auntie ;)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VQ3VCSlaxlA/U_S0QVQ6LmI/AAAAAAAAJ4Y/j7lUKsryufE/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VQ3VCSlaxlA/U_S0QVQ6LmI/AAAAAAAAJ4Y/j7lUKsryufE/s1600/photo%2B2.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Also took a trip out to the country of New Jersey (yes, there is country/farm land in New Jersey) to visit with another friend and her new little one. This one called for some vino out on the deck on this lovely summer afternoon. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I5PTEiaVsQo/U_S0PkqfYyI/AAAAAAAAJ4M/e7aa_NSzDnA/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I5PTEiaVsQo/U_S0PkqfYyI/AAAAAAAAJ4M/e7aa_NSzDnA/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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What a doll this little one is!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iOg-aY-o7s4/U_S0ZAj8SeI/AAAAAAAAJ40/SZ953bNcpn4/s1600/photo%2B3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iOg-aY-o7s4/U_S0ZAj8SeI/AAAAAAAAJ40/SZ953bNcpn4/s1600/photo%2B3.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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D and I have taken some random trips into the city for day dates. We stopped at this cute little cafe near his office that serves all locally grown and sourced veggies. So I had this little platter of all veggies (garlic mashed potatoes are veggies you know!) for dinner with a nice glass of white wine.</div>
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I could totally be a vegetarian if all my meals looked like this.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gL0W_czAYeQ/U_S0R-HlulI/AAAAAAAAJ4o/rESpPnC25Yk/s1600/photo%2B5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gL0W_czAYeQ/U_S0R-HlulI/AAAAAAAAJ4o/rESpPnC25Yk/s1600/photo%2B5.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Bar wisdom.</div>
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Ain't that the truth!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2iaIYpywDg/U_S0QBy7QWI/AAAAAAAAJ4U/_zhVrZk7BjY/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2iaIYpywDg/U_S0QBy7QWI/AAAAAAAAJ4U/_zhVrZk7BjY/s1600/photo%2B1.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Dinner with my college girls. Love getting together with them as if no time has passed!</div>
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<b>So how have you been spending these last days of summer?</b></div>
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xo Steph</div>
pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-24544043430895164532014-08-13T07:30:00.000-04:002014-08-13T08:55:26.597-04:00Summer Vacations & Staycations<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
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This summer, D and I just haven't really had a chance to go on vacation. Our last vacations were last summer to <a href="http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/2013/06/viva-las-vegas-part-1.html#.U-kHFsbfI3Y">Vegas</a> and <a href="http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/2013/08/adventures-in-chicago-part-1.html#.U-kHPcbfI3Y">Chicago</a>, but nothing this summer. We managed to make it to the beach over <a href="http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/2014/07/our-july-4th-in-photos.html">4th of July</a> weekend despite that mini tropical storm but that's about it. I know we both want to get away somewhere but I just don't know if it's gonna happen between schedules and budgets. So whether we end up vacationing or staycationing down at the park or at our local pool, it's no reason to not wear something fun that evokes island breezes and tropical drinks! And as much as I love, love, love fall -- summer please don't end! Because when you end, that means I head back to work ;)</div>
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/summer_getaways/set?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=131648091" target="_blank"><img alt="Summer Getaways" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/r6PmaBtGh0ho9Rq2Ufviw/cid/131648091/id/pJzuVoEh5BGchfum2__Y_w/size/c600x490.jpg" height="522" title="Summer Getaways" width="640" /></a></div>
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<small><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=114108030" rel="nofollow">Athleta swimwear</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=109888514" rel="nofollow">Hipanema tank swimsuit</a>, $135 / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=112313868" rel="nofollow">Tory burch sandals</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=109435896" rel="nofollow">Tory Burch zip tote bag</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=106360156" rel="nofollow">Alex and Ani bracelet</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=104229893" rel="nofollow">Gorjana ring</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=112042661" rel="nofollow">Gorjana earrings</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=114106222" rel="nofollow">Athleta hat</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=114188066" rel="nofollow">Tech accessory</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=82689456" rel="nofollow">Nars cosmetic</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=113089482" rel="nofollow">Butter London teal blue nail polish</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=5369921&.svc=copypaste&id=96584478" rel="nofollow">Eos beauty product</a>, $10</span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-size: small;">One thing that D and I have done to make staycationing more fun was went to an ancient bath called <a href="http://www.ancientbathsny.com/">Aire Ancient Baths</a>. You can seriously find anything in New York. What is an ancient bath you ask? Well it's this ridiculously amazing </span></small>luxury found in Tribeca, NYC; which was built to mimic the ancient bath houses of Rome and Greece. After a hard days work, you would basically swim around and float in these pools of various temperatures to relax and unwind the body and mind. D actually got us admission here and two massages for Christmas and we just got around to using them. It was seriously like heaven on earth. Staycation for the win!! We weren't allowed to take pictures (plus we were too busy enjoying ourselves!) but I pulled some of these images off their website.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oo5tlkjrAAY/U-kKMWy6uZI/AAAAAAAAJ3g/4GkHApO-9M8/s1600/01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oo5tlkjrAAY/U-kKMWy6uZI/AAAAAAAAJ3g/4GkHApO-9M8/s1600/01.jpg" height="382" width="640" /></a></div>
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First off, exposed brick heaven :))))</div>
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dim lighting, candles……so my style.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j_BzvQ-rzjA/U-kKNYOQheI/AAAAAAAAJ3s/ig4A_2ZCGGg/s1600/AireAncientBaths_Pools2_lowres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j_BzvQ-rzjA/U-kKNYOQheI/AAAAAAAAJ3s/ig4A_2ZCGGg/s1600/AireAncientBaths_Pools2_lowres.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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And then this. Each pool had a different temperature ranging from a a standard hot tub, to a bath water warm, a salt water pool to float in, and a frigid ice one to take an icy dip (too wimpy to try that one!). They were without a doubt the most relaxing pool experiences I ever had. Aire even has yearly memberships (extremely pricey) but wow, would that almost be worth it to have unlimited use to these pools at any time. Could you imagine having a rough day at work and just being like, "yeah, I'm gonna go take a dip in the ancient baths before heading home." No big deal.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6QssLboynr0/U-kKMop6y8I/AAAAAAAAJ3k/FPQVR-HEvUg/s1600/Screen-Shot-2014-01-13-at-10.18.59-AM-650x541.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6QssLboynr0/U-kKMop6y8I/AAAAAAAAJ3k/FPQVR-HEvUg/s1600/Screen-Shot-2014-01-13-at-10.18.59-AM-650x541.png" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
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This place was seriously the best. </div>
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<small><span style="font-size: small;">Have you had a chance to get away this summer? What fabulous place did you go?</span></small></div>
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Or are you a staycationer? What did you do to make your staycation special?</div>
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xo Steph</div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 52px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 198px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 52px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 198px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-45985480378154421222014-08-12T07:30:00.000-04:002014-08-12T07:30:00.604-04:00Calling all Shark Week Fans!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's that time of year again that people go bonkers for -- Discovery Channel's Shark Week!! If you're like me (and most of the population) there is a weird fascination with this terrifying creature. Even since I saw Jaws at a young age, I had this love/hate relationship with sharks. They terrify yet intrigue me. It was be the same party of me that loves Halloween so much -- I just love being scared. So with Shark Week 2014 alive and well, why not call some friends over and throw yourself a Shark Week viewing party. Go ahead and even create a drinking game around it too -- because there's always a reason to celebrate something!! All images I collected from pinterest and original sources can be found <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/sgee/">here</a>. </div>
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<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qJu85aKwC2I/UCMOeuFa6SI/AAAAAAAACXM/PVVIZlNrG6I/s640/125256433355746446_1YaO9PqX_f.jpg" height="404" width="640" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qJu85aKwC2I/UCMOeuFa6SI/AAAAAAAACXM/PVVIZlNrG6I/s1600/125256433355746446_1YaO9PqX_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a></span></div>
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Cute beachy themed table include a cupcake tower and salt water taffy.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e_4kXAk2rgo/UCMVJwzzsLI/AAAAAAAACao/sb41rJXysVw/s1600/il_570xN.308528229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e_4kXAk2rgo/UCMVJwzzsLI/AAAAAAAACao/sb41rJXysVw/s640/il_570xN.308528229.jpg" height="446" width="640" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jjKYA7u3ilo/UCMVKXMHlMI/AAAAAAAACaw/yCxLu2K_6mk/s1600/sharkweek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jjKYA7u3ilo/UCMVKXMHlMI/AAAAAAAACaw/yCxLu2K_6mk/s640/sharkweek.jpg" height="471" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7yAMXNhbegA/UCMOfrw4GHI/AAAAAAAACXU/8Gk4j1nMN9A/s1600/263882859385737603_KtHVtlTt_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7yAMXNhbegA/UCMOfrw4GHI/AAAAAAAACXU/8Gk4j1nMN9A/s640/263882859385737603_KtHVtlTt_f.jpg" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cute cardboard shark cut outs I found on Etsy</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aNQFlB3xkWE/UCMO4wIF66I/AAAAAAAACX8/b1r3m2YKss0/s1600/67905906850941618_hLaLpV7B_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aNQFlB3xkWE/UCMO4wIF66I/AAAAAAAACX8/b1r3m2YKss0/s640/67905906850941618_hLaLpV7B_f.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Adorable cards -- could be used as invitations too!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vHs_Xfs4744/UCMO2k3NoWI/AAAAAAAACXk/RfJUQSkSLvI/s1600/29203097554483493_Tg1tkkdx_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vHs_Xfs4744/UCMO2k3NoWI/AAAAAAAACXk/RfJUQSkSLvI/s640/29203097554483493_Tg1tkkdx_f.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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Fancier table setting. How fun is that shark and shrimp bowl centerpiece??<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HR7CLHdAbHw/UCMO4P3oqrI/AAAAAAAACX0/xK4vKXtHaL4/s1600/52002570667326069_Trv54wHG_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HR7CLHdAbHw/UCMO4P3oqrI/AAAAAAAACX0/xK4vKXtHaL4/s640/52002570667326069_Trv54wHG_f.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vyaOlnzmcxs/UCMO5gzrFuI/AAAAAAAACYE/h2OoEGwcqMI/s1600/76561262385442652_mXTpvG6l_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vyaOlnzmcxs/UCMO5gzrFuI/AAAAAAAACYE/h2OoEGwcqMI/s640/76561262385442652_mXTpvG6l_f.jpg" height="640" width="614" /></a></div>
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Fruit salad or jello shots anyone?<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4-2hnxjs_rw/UCQZfeVC_LI/AAAAAAAACck/1a_PEdwJ5wQ/s1600/32088216066011695_AKpEGEl7_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4-2hnxjs_rw/UCQZfeVC_LI/AAAAAAAACck/1a_PEdwJ5wQ/s640/32088216066011695_AKpEGEl7_f.jpg" height="456" width="640" /></a></div>
Beach ball cake pops - genius!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NmnJa1hsgbE/UCMUIt3dypI/AAAAAAAACag/xiABRoFnwCI/s1600/282037995384983246_GV1Q4klS_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NmnJa1hsgbE/UCMUIt3dypI/AAAAAAAACag/xiABRoFnwCI/s640/282037995384983246_GV1Q4klS_f.jpg" height="640" width="462" /></a></div>
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"Sand dollar" cookies -- aka snickerdoodles -- my fav!!</div>
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More beachy cupcakes. Love the "sandy" beach with the umbrella!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r5WaYC7s2EY/UCMOoLNzHYI/AAAAAAAACXc/IiUQru8PW7M/s1600/285274957616619793_5HNRJUy2_f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r5WaYC7s2EY/UCMOoLNzHYI/AAAAAAAACXc/IiUQru8PW7M/s640/285274957616619793_5HNRJUy2_f.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cute shark fin votive candles to set the mood.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4CBRoQK8OOU/UCMO-cUrRmI/AAAAAAAACYs/ikaCxTSGtxo/s1600/il_570xN.363291596_g4ov.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4CBRoQK8OOU/UCMO-cUrRmI/AAAAAAAACYs/ikaCxTSGtxo/s640/il_570xN.363291596_g4ov.jpg" height="640" width="498" /></a></div>
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And of course we can't forget a fun and cute outfit for the hostess with the mostess.</div>
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And I love shark week tee and ocean inspired sparkly nail polish!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PtMk44RSQWo/UCMO9n0AyhI/AAAAAAAACYk/68HfdowSMxA/s1600/il_570xN.362181399_b61h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PtMk44RSQWo/UCMO9n0AyhI/AAAAAAAACYk/68HfdowSMxA/s640/il_570xN.362181399_b61h.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lSNZU586NEw/UCMOdzTA6AI/AAAAAAAACXE/R7EByVbiBME/s1600/104216178846626983_ZSqTFLSi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lSNZU586NEw/UCMOdzTA6AI/AAAAAAAACXE/R7EByVbiBME/s640/104216178846626983_ZSqTFLSi.jpg" height="640" width="428" /></a></div>
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And this little nugget was too cute not to share!!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O9QumBo1WNE/UCMO8CcWJCI/AAAAAAAACYc/w24btfaoAo4/s1600/il_570xN.344557774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O9QumBo1WNE/UCMO8CcWJCI/AAAAAAAACYc/w24btfaoAo4/s640/il_570xN.344557774.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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So anyone else obsessed with Shark Week like me??</div>
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xo Steph</div>
pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5982406245442992570.post-41224003687192254792014-08-11T13:27:00.000-04:002014-08-11T14:45:47.776-04:00Birthday Week, and being MIA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's been my birthday week this past week (yes, I do an entire week, don't judge me!) and I have to say 31 hasn't been so bad! In fact, 31 is feeling like it's going to be a good year. Here's a recap of what I've been up to lately.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9Z2SoTRB8O8/U-j3_yKU5AI/AAAAAAAAJ3M/YWmF-xFbrFk/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9Z2SoTRB8O8/U-j3_yKU5AI/AAAAAAAAJ3M/YWmF-xFbrFk/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Fact: Funfetti cupcakes are a perfectly suitable breakfast item on your birthday. It's weird because I don't typically like cake, but put me around a funfetti cupcake (or any cupcake in general) and all bets are off! Thanks momma for make these for me! My actual birthday, since it was a Monday, was pretty low key. D brought me home flowers and we got sushi take out for dinner which is pretty amazing.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wPul_xeJYwE/U-j3-zZ5p1I/AAAAAAAAJ3E/C5VqNzPzd6I/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wPul_xeJYwE/U-j3-zZ5p1I/AAAAAAAAJ3E/C5VqNzPzd6I/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Birthdays for me also tend to feel like New Years, complete with setting new resolution and goals for yourself. For me? Get back in shape!! Why is this so hard for me to do? Oh I remember why. Because I love to eat food and strongly dislike working out. Killer combo, I know. So on my birthday I got all revved up and cleaned out my fridge, making sure it was packed with fruits and veggies and greek yogurt to keep me on track. Please disregard the bottom shelf full of beer. Old habits die hard. You can take the girl out of college, but you can't take college out of the girl :)<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7suTpluXDzQ/U-j3je-foQI/AAAAAAAAJ2s/RmLniG4cRLI/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7suTpluXDzQ/U-j3je-foQI/AAAAAAAAJ2s/RmLniG4cRLI/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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On Wednesday of birthday week, D and I headed to Brooklyn to see John Legend in concert. Ummm, he is awesome. The concert was amazing, and Mr. Legend has this gift of turning a huge arena into what feels like an intimate setting. D and I had a great time and was even debating on potential wedding songs. We had a bet that if we heard our "favorite song" that night, we would make it our song. He didn't play it (damn you John Legend!) - but we might just choose it anyway.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d-HhhvH2LB4/U-j3hvvIxRI/AAAAAAAAJ2k/OlIzgrSkwkw/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d-HhhvH2LB4/U-j3hvvIxRI/AAAAAAAAJ2k/OlIzgrSkwkw/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fCv5cwmPbaM/U-j3jh-QwVI/AAAAAAAAJ24/oJoYQTTgalA/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fCv5cwmPbaM/U-j3jh-QwVI/AAAAAAAAJ24/oJoYQTTgalA/s1600/photo+5.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Also, concert going already took the healthy eating lifestyle off track…..that very same night I gave my fridge a makeover. #FAIL #fatkidproblems</div>
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On a side note, these loaded nachos were in fact, worth it. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_7WACVBW9rI/U-j3gj5dkDI/AAAAAAAAJ2c/hgDr1pKOWBU/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_7WACVBW9rI/U-j3gj5dkDI/AAAAAAAAJ2c/hgDr1pKOWBU/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Feeling kinda corny when having dinner at a friend's house. This is what happens when you have too much wine.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u9X1mJG_CgQ/U-j2pV_iC6I/AAAAAAAAJ2M/X-ZNLXSWeUo/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u9X1mJG_CgQ/U-j2pV_iC6I/AAAAAAAAJ2M/X-ZNLXSWeUo/s1600/photo+5.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just yesterday was my "Sunday Funday Birthday" day drinking party at Pier 13 in Hoboken. It was a suuuuuper hot day, but overall a beautiful one. We had a great turn out (thanks to all my friends and family who came out!!) You all know how to make a girl feel special! ;)</div>
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It was soooo hot I felt like I was literally melting. I had my hair all cute and curled when I showed up, but up it went because of the stifling heat. My God, the heat.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fDAaQgYHu14/U-j2ljNJZ-I/AAAAAAAAJ1w/jcxYeeW15fk/s1600/photo+1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fDAaQgYHu14/U-j2ljNJZ-I/AAAAAAAAJ1w/jcxYeeW15fk/s1600/photo+1.PNG" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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Me, D, my brother and his gf <a href="http://withluckblog.com/">Jenn</a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ROpK9xEr_wg/U-j2-67BLNI/AAAAAAAAJ2U/QE4Df1NnXMI/s1600/10505353_10100290510352157_3841322723285354473_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ROpK9xEr_wg/U-j2-67BLNI/AAAAAAAAJ2U/QE4Df1NnXMI/s1600/10505353_10100290510352157_3841322723285354473_n.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Me and my girl Colleen. 16 + years of friendship.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9wDBjGHEZxI/U-j2ku0cdAI/AAAAAAAAJ1s/2_16mb0eNB8/s1600/photo+2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9wDBjGHEZxI/U-j2ku0cdAI/AAAAAAAAJ1s/2_16mb0eNB8/s1600/photo+2.PNG" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WVC2bQ04HGM/U-j2oMrUt9I/AAAAAAAAJ2E/gQivd0uS8Lw/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WVC2bQ04HGM/U-j2oMrUt9I/AAAAAAAAJ2E/gQivd0uS8Lw/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h4LYwgbdVH0/U-j2lolw4QI/AAAAAAAAJ10/zBO4UvNKSpg/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h4LYwgbdVH0/U-j2lolw4QI/AAAAAAAAJ10/zBO4UvNKSpg/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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So that's what I've been kind of up to lately. D and I have also been doing some wedding planning (still looking for a venue and "setting a date") and also dabbled in some house hounding. On top of all that, him and I are even toying with the idea of picking up and moving somewhere else. So stay tuned as that all develops. Until then……I promise I'll be back to blogging more! ;)</div>
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Happy Monday friends! </div>
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xo Steph</div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 72px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 72px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>pretty little thingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07197558119010680853noreply@blogger.com11