Don't Worry. Be Happy.

 This Friday never felt so good after an insane week where everything that possibly could go wrong, went wrong. Seriously, obstacles seemed to follow me wherever I went and I'm so happy the weekend is almost here. Not that this weeks challenges have been for nothing, I did learn I've grown as a person - things that may have knocked me down in the past, I worked right through finding compromises that turned out even better than initially planned (Kinko's, I love you and your late night hours) and remained calm through it all, with the exception of one early morning panic which I've since blocked out (although I fear my favorite was forever scarred by this particular moment. Bless his sweet heart). At the end of the day everything worked out and I walked away with a few laughable moments that will forever be in my memory and some tips for future - like always reconfirm your car service for an early morning pick up. As of now, I have absolutely nothing planned for the weekend except to take some time to smell the roses (or tulips in my case). Happy weekend. xoxo

Fake It to Make It.

In love with this Asos belt that instantly creates the perfect little peplum. I've been on the hunt for a peplum styled top to add to my closet for quite some time, but with no luck. Now I can either create my own contrast with a colorful blouse or add to my favorite little black dress as an extra detail. Also, it comes in plus sizes for my curvy gals - LOVE Asos!

Oxford Rules.

Anniel lace oxford / Chie Mihara lace oxford shoes / MM6 Maison Martin Margiela neon pink shoes / Marni lace oxford shoes / HANDSOM suede shoes, $235 / Lace up shoes / Robert Clergerie leather brogue / Slip on shoes

Oxfords aren't just your classic saddle backs anymore. Now in neon, floral, metallic and suede, there’s a little something for everyone.

Cilantro Mint.

Last week I made cucumber salsa, which I absolutely loved. As someone who has never taken a liking to tomatoes this salsa will forever be my go-to as a favorite. Now, what I don’t love is the insane amount of cilantro and mint I had leftover. Granted both were relatively cheap, but even after unloading half to my neighbor, I still had a ton left over and hate to waste. That said, I discovered a recipe for cilantro-mint chutney that tastes delicious with seafood and can only imagine how yummy it would be on pork chops or samosas – a status that will be changing in the very near future.

Ingredients:

2 tsp ginger root, peeled and roughly chopped

¼ cup packed mint leaves

¼ cup packed cilantro

1 tbsp honey

¼ cup rice wine vinegar

½ cup canola oil

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

Directions: In a food processor, combine the ginger, mint, cilantro, honey, rice wine vinegar, oil and salt & pepper, to taste. Process until smooth.

Enjoy!

3 Things.

A weekend full of great food in even better company. What more could a girl need? The only bummer was falling asleep before the season premier of Mad Men ended and completely sleeping through Melissa McCarthy on Saturday Night Live (missing this and so much more). I'm old.

1. Attending Curls, Curves and Cocktails with good friend Juvella walking away truly inspired. I learned just how much your voice can be heard and change be made because of it.

2. Wine tasting at Cuvaison on a beautiful sunny day with my mom, favorite and his brother. So. Much. Fun.

3. This happened during Sunday brunch at Café de la Presse and I'm a better person because of it (I tell myself).