Left to right, top to bottom: started a new job at the UW; enjoying an unseasonably warm day downtown; loved the Federico Uribe exhibit at MMoCA; continuing to practice pottery; the lemon bundt cake in What’s for Dessert is perfection; the venue for my last event with my previous employer.

Hello! A lot has happened since I last checked in nearly two months ago. The biggest update is that I accepted an event management job at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. I had been with my former employer for nearly 18 years and built the events department from the ground up, so it had been a difficult decision to make. But it’s an exciting change and will allow me to expand my leadership skills within a much larger organization. That said, being a “newbie” again is challenging, but it’ll get easier with time!

The hydrangea-inspired frosting on these cupcakes is too cute.

I can’t get over how much I love the sage-like green of East Fork’s latest release, “Lamb’s Ear.”

If you have outdated tile in your bathroom, this is inspiration to work with it.

After my West Elm curtains shrunk significantly in the wash, I bought these linens drapes as a replacement. I love that they have back tabs instead of just the rod pocket for mounting, which isn’t very common for budget curtains.

Don’t sleep on this linen-blend button-down shirt from Old Navy. This French-terry pullover is also great (bought it in white).

I’ve been enjoying NYT’s latest game, Strands.

I need to start watching Palm Royale, if not just for the outfits.

A colorful and eclectic home tour.

The most charming small towns in each state.

Why limit yourself to just a pop of red? I recently bought this shirt to wear with these shorts. They’re so good together with flat sandals, a woven bag, and a pair of turquoise earrings.

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We spent last weekend with Dave’s family on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The warm weather and sunshine was a welcome respite to the subzero temperatures and snow here in Wisconsin. You can see a few more snapshots here.

I absolutely love the trend of an extra-long sheet cake in lieu of a traditional tiered wedding cake.

A recent roundup of items I love.

For those wilth a modern aesthetic, this is a great way to update plain bifold doors.

If Claudia Schiffer can confidently bring her cat out on an adventure, what’s stopping me?

I bought so many blue-and-white pieces from H&M last year for my summer wardrobe. This new blouse would fit in nicely.

Butter molds are the hot new trend for dinner parties.

The rise and fall of the Delia*s catalog.

Loving the shape and the patent finish of this bag.

A wonderful interview with Alex Matisse, the founder of East Fork Pottery and great-grandson of artist Henri Matisse.

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Today is Lily’s one-year adoptiversary! It’s hard to believe a year has passed since we drove six hours each way to pick up our new family member from her foster in Michigan!

While this article is written for men, it’s worth a read for insight into building a wardrobe for your lifestyle and interests.

Some of the things I’m focused on as we head into 2024.

And, a brief look back at 2023 with my favorite purchases of the year.

I received Jenny Bird ‘Aurora’ pendant necklace for Christmas and it’s beautiful! The chain has an adjustable slider to get the perfect length.

How to make limoncello via Grace’s site.

The secret to enjoying a hobby might be allowing yourself to be imperfect.

Why are Millennials still attached to American Girl dolls.

Instead of decluttering, try recluttering.

On the cusp of Valentine’s Day, Sweethearts has rolled out “Situationship” boxes.

Both the cut and pattern of this dress look incredibly flattering.

Enjoy the week!

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I’ve struggled to get into the holiday spirit this year and it wasn’t until our annual holiday trip to Chicago last week that I started to feel some of the excitement of the season. Above are a few snapshots from our two-night visit to the Windy City: the historic pool at the InterContinental, a tinsel-covered tree at Rainbo Club, and the city’s Christmas tree.

For those lucky enough to have unique architectural features in their homes, here’s a useful guide on painting them.

A lighthearted read: What your American Girl doll says about your decorating style.

Stocking stuffers under $25.

I made these Italian holiday cookies last week. They’re cake-like and easy to make. Plus, they keep well. The recipe makes six dozen, so freeze half to enjoy later if you don’t have an upcoming cookie party to attend.

This rendition of each type of person at a dinner party made me laugh.

Tips for making better New Year’s resolutions.

What I bought and loved last month.

I tried on this ring last week and fell in love with it. I’m waiting to buy it until we know we’re done with holiday travel. Nothing is worse than packages arriving as soon as you hit the road!

Making a strong case for green subway tile.

Enjoy the week!

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Recent Moments: the most perfect ballet flats (they’re cushioned!); Thanksgiving prep; and finally getting back to the pottery studio after a bit of a hiatus.

I’m team #RealTree for Christmas. Here’s the best time to buy one.

East Fork’s holiday sale is live with 20% off and free shipping. It’s the best sale they do all year, so stock up on mugs for gifts or treat yourself to some new dishes. I bought a pair of red mugs and eight cake plates in the eggshell glaze. (After hosting Thanksgiving, I realized a needed more small appetizer plates.)

Now that the air is dry, I’ve been waking up with red eyes. These eye drops brighten within minutes.

I’m planning to make this cranberry rum punch this holiday season.

Shall we all make breaking up with fast fashion our collective resolution for the new year?

Did you see this brilliant way to hang a doorway garland? We have arched doorways on our first floor, so it won’t work for us, but those with standard door frames should try it!

I make this cookie recipe every year and it’s a hit! (Along with my family’s sugar cookie recipe, of course.)

Looking for an easy appetizer? I made this spinach artichoke dip that goes right into a slow cooker.

I just ordered this sweater to try. The deep v-neck looks like it’ll be feminine and flattering.

If you’re also starting to plan your travel schedule for 2024, here’s a list of places to keep on your radar.

There are a lot of Loloi rugs on sale right now. Read my honest review of them here.

Enjoy the week!

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Let’s keep in touch!
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Thanks for visiting! As a reminder, I may earn an affiliate commission if you buy an item through my links. This is at no cost to you. I appreciate your continued support!