Get Offline

Today is one of those days where I need to disconnect, get offline and free my mind.

I think we all need a reminder every now and then to disconnect to reconnect to the real world.

So that's exactly what I'll be doing.

Getting offline. Going outside. And freeing my mind.

I hope you all take the time to do the same : )

With that being said I am going to go on a little blogging break for the next week. Hurricanes and snow storms and work have really taken it's toll on me and I need a little R&R to recuperate and rejuvenate myself. Don't worry -- I'm not abandoning you all...I'll be back in about a week! ; )

-Pretty Little Things

Kitchen Love.

 Anyone else has an love and infinity for kitchen gadgets and appliances like me? I guess I've always been something of a domestic diva deep down because I love to cook (although it seems like these days I've had less time to do it) and I love to entertain. To me, the kitchen is the heart of the household -- and if you notice, at parties people always end up in the kitchen, chatting for hours. Probably because people love to congregate around good food and good drinks. I know I do.

Check out my recent kitchen obsessions -- 

 The cutest little measuring spoons ever!

And omg, these nesting owl measuring cups are too cute for words. So cute I would definitely keep these on the counter top!

And these are snow globe spice shakers with little animals inside. I love how the deer looks like he's in grass and the camel looks like he's in the desert! haha 

 I would LOVE a chalkboard/magnetic wall in the kitchen to leave messages and to-do lists everywhere. Note to self, next place I live -- make this happen.

These are cute and colorful kitchen utensils that are weighted to when you place them on the counter, they don't touch. Brilliant. and Lovely.

Fun tasting plate for when D and I have our sushi nights. Communal soy sauce area and a way for us to share everything.

And I'd love a tasting plate like this for when I entertain. I myself love having a lot of sauces and dipping options so this is perfect for me!

 The ultimate luxe kitchen item -- the Kitchen Aid mixer in the color raspberry ice. LOVE.

 And in an efforts to stop using microwave popcorn packets (I read an article that they are full of bad chemicals) I wanted to start air popping my own just using corn kernals, oil and a little salt and butter. mmmmm I'm getting hungry already.

 These cute mugs from Anthropologie. I actually already have an "S" mug that I got from my BFF as part of her maid of honor gift to me -- and I love it. She knows me too well! I'd love to get another "D" mug so we have a set.

And lastly, no kitchen or "hostess with the mostess" is complete without a cute apron. This one is also from Anthropologie and I think it's just so feminine and cute. Every domestic goddess should have a fabulous apron!

*all images found on my pinterest*

Does anyone else have a love of kitchen gadgets?

What's on your kitchen love wish list?

-Pretty Little Things

Tastes of the City

One thing I love about living in a diverse urban area is that you get all different flavors and types of cuisine you can imagine. From authentic Italian, Cuban, Japanese or Portuguese -- there's always something new and interesting for your taste buds to try. For me, I love how there is the most fantastic Filipino restaurant in our neighborhood. This makes me happy because I am half Filipino (my mother's side) so it's a way for me to embrace in part of my culture. Especially one that isn't easy to find in everyday life. (I mean come on, how many people can say they have a Filipino restaurant near them??) Anyway, D and I went out for a lunch date last week (lunch dates are the new dinner dates FYI --cheaper!) 

 First we had lumpia -- which are basically Filipino eggrolls. Served with a sweet and sour sauce.

 You won't find ketchup and other typical condiments at the table. Instead you'll find banana sauce. 

Not sure what it's red though....

 D got some cream of corn soup which was really delicious.

 And Max's restaurant is know for their chicken -- which is deep fried to a golden delicious taste. It's served with sticky white rice (an Asian staple I grew up with) and pancit -- which is a very similar thin noodle lo mein type dish. Another thing I love about this restaurant is that this dish is under $6. So much food for $6 -- you really can't beat it!

 Lastly, our lunch came with complimentary flan which has a delicious caramel sauce glaze and topped with a dollop of whipped cream. So good.

Does anyone enjoy trying new foods/cuisines as much as I do? Or do you tend to stick with your favorite foods and what you know?

Hope you all have a lovely day! : )

-Pretty Little Things

What's inspiring me lately...

Here's a look at what's been inspiring me lately.

All images can be found on my pinterest page : )

 As October ends and we enter chilly November, It's time to put away all the Jack O' Lanterns and Halloween decor (sigh) and decorate with plain pumpkins, gourds, cornstalks and mums. Adore this rustic set up.

 Reminder to myself to keep it healthy. Honey glazed salmon, quinoa (or brown rice) and garlic roasted spinach. YUM.

 Cute boys in plaid playing the guitar <3 -- D will get this reference ; )

Stick and stones rings found on Esty.

A cool reminder to not care what people say about you.

Something about this photo reminds me of my home in Pennsylvania. 

Love those red boots too.

 A walk in closet -- my dream come true!

Here is a vision that I am totally in love with.

 And this bedroom is just funky and cool.

Yes they do.

What's inspiring you lately?

Hope you all have a lovely day! : )

-Pretty Little Things