May 2015 archive

Framed Rackets

I recently saw a couple of great looking framed tennis racket prints at Restoration Hardware (links here and here). Although they are currently around 50% off, at $245 a piece that’s still too much for the space I want to fill at the cabin. I decided to mimic the look with some antique tennis rackets collected over the years by my mom and sitting on a shelf with plenty of other sports memorabilia in Taylor’s room (in other words, I didn’t think he would miss them). I purchased a large frame at Ikea, removed the glass and mat, changed up the color with some chalk paint (some detail on that, below) and hung the two rackets in the center. An easy, very inexpensive DIY wall décor that fills a large space with big impact. It’s perfect at the cabin where I want to avoid having all décor lean in the nautical direction. More detailed steps included below.
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My Kind of Maxi

The maxi dress is a summer staple. It’s also, in most cases, a fairly casual option and not all that practical for me in that they often have thin straps or none at all. After two babies going braless just isn’t a great look for me, and I’m over the effort and the discomfort of a strapless bra. I love this version because it incorporates the loose-fitting and effortless look and a fun floral print commonly found in a cute maxi but takes it up a notch with the detailed stitching in the print, hi low hemline, and full neckline (in other words, a normal bra works). And while I’m on the topic of what things make me comfortable at this stage in my life, I should note that these shoes have Velcro closures. I was pretty against the idea in concept but ordered them anyway. After comparing them to many of the same style with buckle closures, these were the best fitting, easiest to get on and off (that’s probably not terribly surprising) and way more comfortable.
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Anthropologie dress and shoes (Velcro not your thing? Other cute options are here and here) | Banana Republic sunglasses | Kate Spade clutch (old, this year’s version here and love this style here) | Michael Kors watch | Hermes bracelet | Madewell bracelet and ring | Anthropologie earrings (sold out, but love this new hammered gold option)
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Orange Cream Soda

I’m always amazed how my mom can quickly whip up the yummiest of treats at the end of a meal just by grabbing things she has on hand. Often, the goodie evokes memories of a favorite childhood sweet, like with this creamy orange combo that is a grown-up version of the “Dreamsicle” frozen confection. Vanilla ice cream is always on hand at grandma’s house for my daughter Ella, orange sherbet for my dad, and club soda for drinks of other sorts. Simply combine equal parts vanilla ice cream and orange sherbet and top with club soda for a refreshing and delicious dessert. Leave unmixed for a float, or stir together (my favorite) for more of an old-fashioned soda. Serve in a nautical themed cute glass with a summertime straw for a special touch.

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