A New Decade

It's been two weeks since I hit the big 3-0 (and since our last post!), and I can tell you this new decade is feeling pretty good. I may have mentioned before that I'm not one of those girls that was sad to turn 30. After 3 decades of getting to know myself and fine tune, what's to be sad about? Finally, I feel completely confident in who I am. 

And excited for what's to come!

So grateful for all of the celebratory gestures from my friends and family-- thank you! And, of course, opportunities to get glam. For this look, I wore a skirt that was gifted to me by my grandmother. She gave it to me a few months ago, but due to an illness I'm recovering from, I wasn't able to wear it. So glad I got to wear it on my big day because it paired perfect with my faux fur ($20 steal from Targét!) and Stuart Weitzman pumps.

I'm looking forward to seeing how my style evolves, if at all. Especially since no one seemed to believe me that I was reaching 30 anyhow. Good genes. Thanks Mom + Dad!

Sitting with a grateful heart.

xo | din

faux fur | Altuzarra for Target

tee | Mossimo

skirt | Iris Los Angeles

lips | makeupforever Rouge Artist Natural N28

mani | OPI's Lincoln Park after Dark

location | Dirty Martini (w/ pistachio cheesecake!)

video | click here to view on your smart phone or tablet

photos | tattoos20.com, kellymccaleb.typepad.com

Pit Stops and Victory Laps

Last week I was in Indianapolis for a conference. Lord have mercy, it was so cold! Truly I do not know how people live there! Fortunately, I had just snagged this awesome Betsy Johnson coat-- water resistant, deep pockets, and a hood. Besides being too cute with all of its details, it kept me warm as my cohort and I walked around downtown after dinner.

The pictures aren't so clear-- I don't think my iPhone was ready for a night shoot!-- nonetheless, wanting to share this festive downtown Indy display and the coat that graced the sidewalks. What do you think?

If you read our last post, or follow us on Facebook, you noticed that it was my 30th birthday (!!) on Monday. On Saturday, while my friend and colleague waited for our flight home, we had lunch at Steak N' Shakes. I haven't been to this restaurant in years! I remember going once when my family was driving to/through the midwest and my sister and I just loved it! So, when I saw Indy had one, I had to stop! Not only is the restaurant celebrating their 80th (with a birthday milkshake and all!), one of the waitresses was celebrating a birthday, too. They scooted her to middle of the restaurant and the singing began. Next thing I know, my friend says to them, "it's her birthday, too."

Long story short, check out this video* of the Downtown Indianapolis Steak N' Shakes staff and patrons wishing me Happy Birthday. Definitely had a girl smilin'!

xo | din

soft shell coat | Betsey Johnson (limited qty available, similar here)
infinity scarf | LOFT
pants | Tahari
bag | Jessica Simpson
shoes | Me Too

*Can't view video on your device? Watch it on Facebook.

Thirty

Happy Birthday to... me! Today is my 30th birthday and I'm excited! Nope; I am definitely not one of those women who like to conceal their age. After all, with age comes wisdom and I'm all about that!

In fact, this morning after a beautiful rendition of "Happy Birthday" from my dad (get this man a record deal!), I wisely decided to enjoy Nutella on my toast. Truth be told, it's not the first time I've made a wise decision to have Nutella, so this just shows that I'm retaining knowledge.

Yesterday, however, might have been a more well rounded course as I enjoyed brunch with a few friends at Lavagna in Capitol Hill. The menu is farm to table and delicious. I had Eggs Florentine (their take on Eggs Benedict) with a side of bacon (not my fav in the way it was prepared) and two Americanos (necessary!). To top it off, my friends sang Happy Birthday to me before I blew out a candle on a melt-in-your-mouth delicious Tiramisu cake!

Brunch was perfect because I was surrounded by great company to fellowship, delicious food to eat, and this fabulous blanket poncho to keep me warm. This poncho was made especially for me by my best friend, dré. About a month ago dré confirmed with me which fabric I would like, then she spent an afternoon creating the garment. Upon arriving home on Saturday from Indianapolis, I saw the package at my doorstep. I had already planned to wear it for my brunch, so the timing was perfect. Thank you, dré, for such a thoughtful gift! The time and detail that went into it has not gone unnoticed! (Really, though, I've received so many compliments!) Thanks, boo!

Today is also our blogiversary! Check out our official launch here. Then, visit our Facebook page for more birthday celebration updates!

What do you think of my blanket poncho?

xo | din

blanket poncho | dré
necklace | H&M
leather cuff | MetroPark
leggings | H&M
shoes | Jessica Simpson

photos | Maci P

Snow…what?!

Snow...what?! I couldn't believe the news has been reporting snow today. So far so good here in DC, but those poor Yakimaniacs! Check out Google's PSA. Brrr! No wonder dré was freezing yesterday--poor one!

Bundle up, babes. Winter is upon us!

xo | din

rain boots | Hunter, $125
blanket scarf | Express, $49.90

photo credit | dremalczewska, 'fy'victoriabeckham.tumblr