9/12/14

HeroMe!

Hi Friends!

I've missed you all.  Taking a break from blogging has been bittersweet.  I've needed and used every second of the spare time a break from Ann Elliott has created, but I miss interacting with and keeping up with you!


I wanted to pop back in today to let you know what I've been working on during my hiatus...HeroMe!  Some of you may remember this post where I first introduced you to the concept of HeroMe.  All I can say is that this company has been a long time coming, and I am thankful for the chance to join Josh in making it a reality.  


As a quick overview for those of you who don't know HeroMe - we are an online toy store where kids can create their own superhero action figures.  Kids can choose one of five heads, five superpower arms, and five superpower legs to create their unique HeroMe.  Each HeroMe comes with a "HeroMe Handbook" that has games and activities that guide kids through the process of writing their own story about their new HeroMe.   Our goal is to inspire creativity in kids, and we want to empower them to create the stories and adventures they want to have with their HeroMe - not just recreate the stories that have already been told by a movie franchise.  


Today I'm so excited to announce that we have launched our Kickstarter campaign, and you can check it out here.  I might be a little biased, but I do think this is a GREAT way to get a jump on holiday shopping for the kids in your life.  So, don't delay.  Back the project today as a way to pre-order for the holidays.  (We'd also appreciate any sharing you want to do with others who might be interested!)

Thanks for checking us out, and thanks in advance for your support.  

Oh, and you can find us on Facebook here or follow us on Twitter @heromelab.

xo,




8/11/14

Farewell For Now

via
Today's the day.  It's time for me to say goodbye to blogging.  When I started this blog in 2012, I was looking for a creative outlet to balance out my law school classes and obligations.  It wasn't planned, it wasn't something I'd been dreaming of doing, it was something I just did one night after I finished my Employment Law homework.  I remember pushing "publish" on my first post and then just going on with my life.  And that's how the blog evolved - blogging became part of my routine and a wonderful way to memorialize our time in Chapel Hill, our move to Florida, time with family and friends, and a few attempts at gift guides and fashion finds along the way.  

I've loved working on posts, sharing snippets of life, and connecting with other bloggers.  I am continually amazed by the creativity and talent of the blogging community, and I'm so thankful to have learned so much from other bloggers and mentors.  Most importantly I've been overwhelmed by the support of Ann Elliott's readers.   I'm still giddy every time someone says they read the blog, and to say I'm humbled that anyone would take the time to read Ann Elliott is a massive understatement.  So thank you all for reading, commenting, liking posts, and helping shape Ann Elliott into the space it is today.

This quote couldn't express my decision to step away from blogging more perfectly.  It's time to focus on other things - things that need my full attention and focus right now.  I may be back to blogging one day (and I may even post a holiday gift guide or two), but for now I need to "be all there" on some other projects.  

Words are not something I usually struggle to find, but wrapping up this post has me stumped.  So I'll end it with one more heartfelt thank you, and I'll simply say farewell for now...

xo,

8/8/14

Favorite Things: Under $50


1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9

Happy Friday!  To get you in the back to school mode, I thought I'd share a few of my favorite things, sale style!  Everything here in under $50, with most items WELL below that threshold.  There are so great deals to be had, and it's never a bad idea to stock up on classics with prices this good.

To highlight a few of my favorites:

I have two pairs of these white jeans.  I bought my first pair for less than $20, and then I loved them so much I bought a second pair.  They are mostly sold out in stores, so online is the way to go.

I got this maxi dress for less than $15 recently.  It looks much nicer on that it does on this model.  Its super soft, and the length was just right on me.  I'd avoid the patterned options though - I think they look a little cheaper than the solid color in person.  

I don't own this silk top, but anything with plackets is fine by me!  You can wear it now with your new white jeans, or later with a pencil skirt or black skinny pants.  The color selection is amazing too.  

These high boys add the perfect punch to any table setting, bar cart, or even on a desk as a pencil cup.  Buy a set for yourself and a set for someone else - call it early Christmas shopping!

Enjoy the weekend!

xo,

8/7/14

Guest Post: Beyond the Registry, 5 Great Gifts for a New Mom

 I don't know about you all, but I am going to a baby shower (or two) almost every weekend, visiting a new baby in the hospital at least once a month, and taking meals to friends with new babies constantly.  I love every minute of celebrating these new arrivals, but since I don't have kids of my own, the world of baby gifts and post-baby meals is a bit of a mystery to me!  I often find myself thinking there should be a guide for non-mom friends to know what a new mom really wants/needs in those first few months after a baby is born.  

That's why I'm so excited that Annie is guest posting for us today!  Annie is one of my friends from college (she was actually my advisor for Dance Marathon waaaay back in the day), and she is mom to two adorable little girls.  Annie knows first hand what will make new moms feel extra special and loved.  Thanks for guest posting today, Annie.  I learned so much from this post, and I know others will enjoy it too!

Hi!  I am so excited to be a guest on Ann Elliott this week. I'm a full-time working mom of two lovely little girls -  2 1/2 years and 3 months. Since we are still in new baby mode, I am here to help you with a few small items that can be a nice addition to a baby shower gift or a bonus gift for a friend once baby arrives. 


Take Along Tunes


 Baby Einstein Take Along TunesWe are an "on the go" couple so when our first daughter arrived we still wanted to be out and about. This was hands down our favorite toy for the first year since it was easy to bring along and made for a very happy and distracted little one. We often joke that those songs were our family soundtrack for awhile. This handheld music player with lights got us through our daughter's first flight at 4 1/2 months, a road trip to Tennessee at 10 months and many dinners out. It's the perfect size to toss in the diaper bag and has volume control which is a plus those around you. My husband even endorses this baby gift so new dads will love it too.

via
 Reuseable "snack" bags from EcoHipThis bag was a great find at the Riverside Arts Market but EcoHip items can easily be purchased on Etsy. It works great in early months to keep pacifers clean in the diaper bag and for us it transitioned as a crayon bag for the toddler stage. I am sure it works great for snacks too! There are tons of great fabric choices and I love that most of the prints don't scream "baby". Another great option is Itzy Ritzy. I hear, through the mommy grapevine, that the larger bag makes a great swimsuit "wet" bag for the summer.

burp cloths

Burps cloths and bibsEvery new mom needs less laundry and extra burp cloths and bibs are a step in the right direction! For cost and function I love these flatfold cloth diapers from Gerber. For function and lovely designs, I love all things Aden + Anais! For bib and burpcloth combined go with these. For bibs that grow with baby check out these.  

nursing tank
Nursing TankEvery mom loves to receive a gift to celebrate their new addition but sometimes it is nice to get something that is really just for mom herself. If you are giving a gift to a mom that plans to breastfeed, this is the best clothing item out there (in my humble opinion). Best of all you can get it at Target.  They are cute, comfy and very convenient. Toss in a new nail polish, lip gloss or pair of comfy socks so she feels extra pampered.


via

Gift card: You can't go wrong with a gift card. Here are a few options to bypass the typical Babies R Us or Buy Buy Baby.
  • Restaurant: Mom and dad might be ready to get out with their newest family member.  Or consider a location with convenient take out options.  You can't go wrong with this one!
  • Etsy: It is truly beautiful baby item galore! Maybe she would like to order a personalized nursery décor item  or pick out her own fabric design for the EcoHop reuseable bag or maybe she will wait and use it for some adorable customized 1st birthday party invites.
  • Target: I loved an indulgent solo trip to Target well before I became a mom but now this getaway is the ultimate treat! Be sure to put a note in the card that she should buy herself something that she doesn't really need while she is there too.
  • Lowe's: New babies mean new projects whether it's hanging pictures in the nursery, organizing closet storage or building a picnic table for family dinners in the back yard. If you know a handy couple this will be a hit! 

Here a few other tips for celebrating a new baby...

Celebrate the sibling too
If the family has welcomed a second (or 3rd or 4th) baby, try to do something special for the sibling(s) as well.  Maybe it is a new hairbow or HotWheels car or if its ok with mom and dad, special treats like mini cupcakes or a gift card for a trip out for ice cream.  The big sister in our house loves to go to Sweet Frog.  It's a great reminder that it is more fun to be a big girl since babies never get to eat ice cream.  :)

Help out with a meal
Bring lunch to mom. She will love the visit and the fact that she doesn't have to load up all her baby gear or even change out of that awesome Target nursing tank that some great friend bought for her!
Bring dinner for the family. If you are more talented in the kitchen than I am, you can actually cook the meal. Maybe it is the Southern girl in me, but I think celebrating with food, home cooked or store bought is always welcome! 

Pick up a few household staples
Call or text when you head out to grocery shop or run errands and see if there are any staples you can grab to save her a trip. Be sure your message is something like, "I'm on my way to insert favorite store here, is there anything I can grab for you?"

Thanks for reading. I hope these tips make new baby gift giving as fun for you as it is for the new mom receiving the gift!

Thank you for guest posting today, Annie!  Annie doesn't have her own blog, but you can leave a comment for her here!

xo,

8/6/14

Mid Week Muse: Savoring Summer

Necklace // Top // Shorts // Bag // Sandals
I'm savoring summer with today's muse.  Even though summer technically continues through September, I always feel like the "back to school" rush of August marks the start of fall.  Here in Florida we will have scorching temps for several more weeks (months?!), but there is a definite shift in my attire post-Labor day.  I love that most of these items feel like summer, but can transition easily into fall in Florida.  A chambray shirt is in my closet year round, this statement necklace can be worn with a tank top or a turtle neck, and these sandals have enough polish to carry me well into October.  So even though my mindset is to savor summer, I've got one eye towards fall and which pieces will stay in rotation.

I'm traveling as this post is going live, so I will have this week's favorite muse up a little later.  In the meantime, head over to Morgan's blog to see who we've chosen as this week's favorite muse!

What's your "muse" this week?  Share your muse by linking up or commenting below.
While you're sharing, be sure to visit some of the other blogs and say hello!
Don't forget - Morgan and I  choose our favorite "muse" from the current week to feature on both of our blogs.  The "winner" will be notified the Tuesday evening before the post goes live on Wednesday.  Get sharing - we can't wait to see your muses!  While you're sharing, be sure to visit some of the other blogs and say hello as well.
  How it works:
Grab the button below and link back to BOTH of the hosting blogs:
Link up starts on Wednesday at 6am EST

*It would also be super nice of you to visit the blog that entered the link up before you and leave a comment.  We're into creating a community here!*

Promotion:
Please help us promote our new link-up!

Use #MidWeekMuse and be sure to tag us on IG:

Share your post on Facebook and give us a shout out:

Follow us on BlogLovin:

Ann Elliott
xo,

8/5/14

Recipe: Korean Beef Lettuce Leaves

If you've gotten past the title of this recipe, you're in for a great treat.  I've flipped past this recipe dozens of times over the past few years, and I've always stopped to look a the picture only to be dissuaded by the title.  Let me be the first to tell you though, this is a great, healthy meal.  The meat is a little sweet, but after the shock of the first bite you'll be hooked.  


Korean Beef in Lettuce Leaves
Original recipe from The Flat Belly Diet Cookbook

Ingredients:
  • 3 Tbs. orange marmalade
  • 2 Tbs. reduced sodium soy sauce
  • 1 Tbs. hoisin sauce
  • 1 Tbs. freshly grated ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 c. canola oil
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 8 scallions, sliced
  • 2 carrots, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
  • 12 boston or bibb lettuce leaves
Directions:
  1. Whisk together the marmalade, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ginger and garlic in a small bowl.  Set aside.
  2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.  Cook the beef, scallions, carrots, and peppers for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, or until beef is brown and cooked through.  Add the soy mixture and cook, stirring for 5 minutes or until well blended.  
  3. Spoon the beef mixture into lettuce leaves and serve.  Or roll like a wrap and eat.
Enjoy!

xo,



8/4/14

Reflecting v. 2

Happy Monday, friends.  I hope you enjoyed last week's guest bloggers.  The community of bloggers is an amazing thing, and it's one of the things I most enjoy about blogging.  A special thanks to Becky, Natalie, Ashley, and Allie.  
AND, stay tuned - I have another special guest post coming up later this week.  

via
In the meantime, it's been a long time since I've done a "reflecting" post.  My last one was just after Thanksgiving (see it here), so I'm long overdue.  I love these little snapshots of life, and I'm hoping to do this type of post more often going forward.  

Making: a needlepoint belt for Josh.  Not sure what I was thinking taking this one on.
Cooking: recipes with lots of peaches.
Drinking: grapefruit izze.
Reading: Wedding Night by Sophie Kinsella.  Taking recommendations for something new!
Wanting: a king size bed.
Looking: for clothing that feels like fall, but is still appropriate for 94 degrees and 80% humidity!
Playing: NY Times Crosswords app.
Sewing: nothing.  Does needlepoint count?  
Wishing: for a little certainty on the career/business front.
Enjoying: early evening swimming sessions with the puppy and Josh.
Waiting: to do some house renovations.
Liking: paper products of all kinds.  I've been obsessed with sugar paper products lately.
Wondering: when I will finally feel like I'm settled in Jacksonville.
Loving: fresh mozzarella cheese.
Hoping: for a successful Kickstarter campaign for HeroMe in a few weeks!
Marveling: at the difference a year can make.  So thankful to have had a summer free from Bar Exam studying!
Needing: Ben and Jerry's coffee toffee crunch ice cream and a new HVAC.
Smelling: St. Tropez self tanner.  It's my new favorite beauty product and my secret to a little Florida glow.
Wearing: white jeans from now until Labor Day.
Noticing: how quiet our house is first thing in the morning.
Knowing: that nothing makes me happier than a quiet night on the couch with Josh. 
Feeling: energized and excited about tackling lots and lots of work in the weeks ahead.
Thinking: about how quickly this year is passing.
Bookmarking: favorite quotes and beautiful interiors.
Wrapping: baby gifts - lots and lots of baby gifts.  
Giggling: at Jimmy Fallon, Pete Nelson's antics on Treehouse Masters (Josh's show, not mine), and every Wednesday for sushi night with Simmons and Russell.  

xo,

8/1/14

Guest Post: Allie

Hello, loves!  You are in for a treat today.  Allie from Alexandra Bee Blog has agreed to guest post for us today.  I love Allie's blog, and she has an incredible eye for beautiful decor and great fashion.  The little glimpses of her life that she shares makes me convinced that a) I should move to Virginia, and b) she and I should be best friends.  Thanks for posting today, Allie!
    

A big hello to all of Annie’s followers.  Pleased to meet you!  Can we just start by saying how awesome Annie is?  First of all, she is effortlessly chic, while remaining down to earth.  Secondly, I always love seeing her latest outfit creations and pinning her delicious recipes!  That being said, I’m so excited to be a part of her blogger interview series and to introduce myself to y’all!  I’m Allie, the face behind Alexandra Bee Blog.  If you visit my blog you’re likely to find a little bit of everything.  Frequent topics, include my latest fashion finds, favorite recipes, my attempts as a wannabe interior designer, and recaps of my day to day life.  I hope you’ll stop by and say hi!

Last summer I was able ot meet one of my very first blog friends Leigh of Hines Sight Blog while her family was visiting Richmond!
How long have you been blogging, and what's one piece of advice you would share with fellow bloggers?
I’ve been blogging for close to three and a half years now, and my biggest piece of advice would be to really embrace the opportunity blogging provides to connect with people both near and far away.  My decision to blog, honestly, was a spur of the moment one.  I randomly stumbled upon the blog Let the Tide Pull Your Dreams Ashore, and immediatlely was hooked.  After reading a few days I thought “I could do this” spent a few hours coming up with a name, designing my page, and writing a first post.  If you asked me then if I would make meaningful friendships through blogging, I probably would have snickered and said “No way!” In three and a half years, though, I can say I have made some wonderful friends through blogging and have learned so much through the day to day musings of others in the blog world.

My babes, The Cuties, at our prime Maymont picnic spot 5 years ago!
What does your ideal day in Richmond include?
I’m a big fan of breakfast foods, so my ideal day would most definitely start with brunch at one of my local favorites:  Bellytimber Tavern, The Continental, or Mosaic.  Next a trip somewhere fun would be in order.  Some great options would include:  a stroll and some shopping in Carytown; a walk around Maymont Park with a wine and cheese picnic by the waterfall in the Japanese gardens; or a trip to Belle Isle where you can swim and sunbathe on the rocks.  I’d end the ideal day with dinner out on the town, probably at Edo Squid (a late reservation is most romantic, seated at a table by the window).  Other favorite dinner spots include Pearl, Estilo, Kona Grill, Tarrant’s Cafe, Can Can, Lemaire, Millie’s Diner, and The Roosevelt.  And finally, if I still had room for dessert, I’d stop at Boyer’s on the way home and indulge in some decadent Gelati Celesti ice cream.

BLUE nails!?  I used to only wear shades of pink and red // For years I loved Fryes but thought they were too "edgy" - I wear them more than any other boot though // Classic floral blouse meets trendy faux fur vest // Classic tweed meets edgy moto jacket // Ogled over rompers for three years before finding the courage to buy one // Pattern mixing
If you could go back in time 5-10 years, what is one piece of advice you would give yourself about building a wardrobe?
Don’t be afraid to take fashion risks.  I’ve always been a girl that’s drawn to classic style.  In many ways it has paid off:  I’ve had certain pieces of clothing for close to ten years that are still “in style” because of their timeless look.  That being said, I’ve also always loved following fashion trends and am drawn to edgy as well as classic pieces.  I often used to avoid those edgy pieces, however, proclaiming that I couldn’t pull them off.  In the last few years, I’ve begun to take risks and become more bold and daring when dressing.  It has been so fun and through it, I feel like I’ve really established my own personal style.

Some of my favorite kinderbabies
Imagine yourself 20 years from now.  What is one thing you would like to be known for and why?
This one’s simple, I want to be known for being a great mom.  I’ve always felt that motherhood is my calling, therefore my goals of family have always trumped those of career.  To explain a bit more, when first entering college my dream was to study international relations.  Having traveled all the way to Europe for the International Model UN conference my senior year of high school, I saw myself someday working for a large global organization like the UN.  When examining my ultimate goals, however, I decided to go a different route.  I knew that I wanted to be a mom that was very active in my children’s lives.  That career path likely wouldn’t have afforded me the time and flexiblity I know I will want as a mom;  so, when during my second year of college, I found myself loving a child development class in the education school, I decided to pursue my childhood dream of teaching.  The whole first year of my master’s classes I thought I had made the wrong choice.  Education classes were so warm and fuzzy, and I am someone who thrives under pressure and competition.  I stuck with it, though, and once I found myself in a classroom, interacting with kids, I knew I had made the right choice for me.  My passion is kids and until I have kids of my own to raise, my students are the next best thing!

Thank you again, Allie!  Be sure to stop by Alexandra Bee Blog to say hello!
xo,

7/31/14

Guest Post: Ashley

Today I am so excited to introduce you to Ashley from the blog Turquoise & Teale.   Even when my days are hectic and I don't have time to read my email (much less a new blog post,) I always read T&T.  Ashley continually has the most amazing round up of recipes, fashion, and new products to try.  Make sure to stop by her blog and say hello.  Thanks again for guest posting today, Ashley!  


Hi Ann Elliott readers!  I feel so honored that Annie asked me to guest post today.  I'm the twenty-something blogger behind Turquoise & Teale that calls Charleston, SC. Atlanta, GA and St. Louis, MO home for the time being.  It sounds all over the place, I know.  If you need travel or packing advice, I'm your girl!  I hope you'll stop by T&T sometime to say hi!

From "A Glimpse of Lately"
How long have you been blogging, and what's one piece of advice would you share with fellow bloggers?
I've been blogging for a little over two years no and originally started it when I moved to Charleston, SC.  Since all of my family and friends were still in Georgia this was the perfect way to keep them up to date with life, favorite recipes, new fashion finds, and new city adventures!  My biggest advice to bloggers would be to stay true to you.  It's so easy to get overwhelmed comparing yourself to others and lose your own voice.  Write about what you love and the rest will follow.

What does your ideal day in Charleston include?  
My ideal day in Charleston includes just a little bit of everything.  I love starting the day with breakfast at the farmer's market and walking around downtown afterwards.  There are so many cute boutiques it's hard not to stop in!  Grab an ice coffee to go and check them all out.  After that I'd grab my beach chair to head to Sullivan's Island for a day of sunshine.  Lunch would be at Poe's Tavern (get a burger!).  One of my favorite sports in Charleston is the Pitt Street bridge (also where Brian proposed.)  I'd grab some wine and cheese and head out there with some friends to watch the sunset.It has the most amazing views!  Dinner would be at SNOB (the duck is the best I've ever had!) and then popping around the rooftop bards on East Bay.  Winding down the night I'd be at Blind Tiger and cab it home!

From "The Summer Pants You Need"
If you could go back in time 5-10 years, what is one piece of advice you would give yourself about building your wardrobe?
I'd love to go back 5-10 years and tell myself to buy less trendy pieces and save up for more investment pieces.  I'm sure everyone has felt that way.  Quality over quantity is my motto now.

From "Our Engagement Pictures"
Imagine yourself 20 years from now.  What is one thing you would like to be known for and why?
Twenty years from now I would hope to be known for a kind heart, as a loving wife and mother and a dedicated friend.  Family and friends are what it's all about.  I continually strive to be better for each of them and the love they share with me.  


Thank you again, Ashley!  Be sure to stop by Turquoise & Teale to say hello!

xo,

7/30/14

Mid Week Muse: Mint-y

dress // watch // clutch // shoe // stationary // earrings
I'm popping in today to share my "Mid Week Muse."  I've got some more great guest bloggers lined up for you tomorrow and Friday, but I couldn't stay away for an entire week without a quick post.  Since this week is a little different, I though this week's "muse" should be a little different too.  Rather than putting together an outfit as a muse, I thought I'd share some of my mint colored favorites for the week.  I've been on a bit of a green kick lately, and  mint green just seems perfect for summer.  I love mint paired with gold, with white, or navy.  If you want to be really wild, you could even pair it with hot pink or emerald green - it's all up to you.  Do you have a favorite color for summer?  Mine changes every few weeks or so, but since summer is the only time I have a bit of color (thanks to this life changer and this helper), I feel like it's the perfect time to embrace a little pastel.

This week we are excited to share two favorite muses - Lindsay from Lovely Life Styling and Niki from Glossy Blonde.  Both of these ladies are pregnant and GLOWING.  What's even more impressive is that they are super stylish while doing it.  We love that both of them gravitated towards the graphic t-shirt and maxi skirt combo, and their cute "bump dates" are just an added bonus.  Congrats, Lindsay and Niki!

Lindsay


Niki
What's your "muse" this week?  Share your muse by linking up or commenting below.
While you're sharing, be sure to visit some of the other blogs and say hello!
Don't forget - Morgan and I will now be choosing our favorite "muse" from the current week to feature on both of our blogs.  The "winner" will be notified the Tuesday evening before the post goes live on Wednesday.  Get sharing - we can't wait to see your muses!  While you're sharing, be sure to visit some of the other blogs and say hello as well.

How it works:
Grab the button below and link back to BOTH of the hosting blogs:
Link up starts on Wednesday at 6am EST

*It would also be super nice of you to visit the blog that entered the link up before you and leave a comment.  We're into creating a community here!*

Promotion:
Please help us promote our new link-up!

Use #MidWeekMuse and be sure to tag us on IG:

Share your post on Facebook and give us a shout out:

Follow us on BlogLovin:

Ann Elliott
xo,

7/29/14

Guest Post: Natalie

Happy Tuesday!  For our second blogger interview, Natalie from East Coast Chic has agreed to tell guest post.  Natalie's blog is a great read, but I usually wind up with about 5 things I have to go buy immediately because her recommendations are so great.  She is also a fabulous momma to Miller (and baby # 2 on the way!) and I love the little excerpts of her adventures as a mom.  Thanks for guest posting today, Natalie!

Hi Everyone!  First of all I just want to say a big Thank You to Annie for having me here today.  I hope I can entertain you all while she's off today.  I am Natalie but most people call me Nat.  I'm a 30 something married girl living in between Baltimore and Washington, DC with my husband, out 1 year old son Miller, and our crazy mini goldendoodle Layla.  We're expecting baby boy # 2 this November so life is about to get real crazy for us!  I love mexican food, flip flops, a big glass of wine (when I'm not pregnant), lazy beach days, designer handbags, anything striped or polka dotted, J.Crew, renovating our new house, and I have a never ending love of fashion and shopping.  

East Coast Chic
How long have you been blogging, and what is the one piece of advice you would give fellow bloggers?
I have been blogging on and off since December of 2008.  I originally started my blog to document our wedding and wedding planning.   Even though I’ve taken a few breaks here and there I can’t believe I’m still here blogging so many years later.  I’ve come to enjoy the blog community and all the wonderful women I’ve met.  Especially the ones I’ve been lucky enough to become real life friends with.   I’ve seen the blog world blow up over the past couple of years and my best advice would be to stay true to yourself! It’s really easy to get caught up in what other bloggers are doing/saying/wearing/eating and I’m not saying you can’t adopt some of it but it’s important not to lose your voice in the process of trying to grow your blog.   

National Mall via East Coast Chic
What does your ideal day in Washington, D.C. include?
My ideal day in the city would be a day to shop and play tourist with my husband. We would start our day in DC by parking at my husband’s office since it’s in a great location right on Pennsylvania Ave by the White House.  After stopping for and iced coffee and a donut we would head to the national mall to walk around and people watch. Walking the national mall is one of my most favorite things to do in DC because you have The Capitol on one side and Washington monument on the other- it’s just so representative of DC.  I also love to people watch on the mall- you really see all walks of life out there, especially in the early mornings.  

Next we would head to the Natural History museum for some culture. The Natural history museum has always been one of my favorites and I don’t get to go as much as I would like.  After that we would head to the Dupont area so I could finally try the District Taco food truck.  I am a huge Mexican food fan and I have been hearing amazing things about this food truck so I’m dying to try them. 

After that we would head to Georgetown to do a little shopping at Calypso St Barth, Kate Spade, Vineyard Vines, and my favorite baby boutique Dawn Price Baby.  Famished and exhausted from shopping we would catch a cab back to other side of town to go to our favorite pizza joint Ella’s Wood fired Pizza.  Their pizza is so good but their sangria is even better.  If you’re ever in the Penn Quarter area of DC they have a great happy hour too.   After dinner we would head to the W hotel rooftop bar POV for one final cocktail for my husband and dessert for me.  

East Coast Chic - monograms are always a classic
If you could go back in time 5-10 years, what is one piece of fashion advice you would give yourself about building your wardrobe?  
Spend more money on classic timeless pieces that will last! I used to get really caught up in trends and I blew a lot of money on cheap clothes that I would just end up donating/giving away within 6 months to a year of buying them because the trend was already out of style.  I hate having nothing to show for all the money I spent.      
Imagine yourself 20 years in the future.  What is the one thing you would like to be known for and why?
What is the one thing you would like to be known for and why? I would love to be known for being a good mom.  I hope that I will have raised my boys to be successful, kind, respectable young men and if I’m remembered for anything I hope it’s being the best mom I could have been to them.   

Thank you again, Natalie!  Be sure to stop by East Coast Chic to say hello! 

xo,