Happy Summer! With summer travels in full swing and the itinerary planned, I thought that I would give you a glimpse into my summer. So far, I have spent the first month and a half in Sun Valley, ID (more content coming when I return :)) which I have been so grateful for. Although, right now I am in Paris, France -- the first leg of our five-week European trip. For the next couple of weeks in Paris, I will be taking you along on all of our adventures. Whether it be the restaurants and shops that we frequent or the outfits I am sporting, it will be a fun ride for us both. The first day overseas is always a challenge. Whether it's coordinating the plane, trains, ubers,etc., adjusting to the time-zone, or getting acquainted with your new setting, this can be a feat in itself but more importantly, bring many fun opportunities to explore. Arriving in Paris around 2 in the afternoon last week, we were determined to power through the exhaustion of traveling and the 8 hour time change. After settling into our apartment, we stayed busy by walking around the 7th and 8th arrondissements searching for our favorite fruit stands, bakeries, fromageries, wine shops, and many more, determined to pound the pavement until bed. In a means of fill our darling kitchen with some essentials, we visited many shops and thoroughly explored our little slice of Paris. Later that evening we made our way down the street to a small Italian restaurant called Chez Pippo. Snagging the perfect spot for people watching and admiring the French culture, we enjoyed fresh bread, pizzas, gnocchi, and a yummy Caprese salad. It was the perfect first day in Paris and I can't wait to share more -- stay tuned! Cheers! #Travel #Paris #Food #Trip #Vacation #France #FirstDay #Summer #Italian #Pizza

Its almost time! My family and I always look forward to Christmas day and our many traditions. In the morning we always wait for everyone to wake-up and then all venture to the brightly lit tree to gather and open up our stockings. Below, I have gathered some inspiration for you to fill all of your loved one's stockings to the rim with. Enjoy! Fresh and Bert's Bees Lip Treatments/Balms: Mui Mui Perfume Roller: Bobino Cord Organizer: Kikkerland Charging/Power Bank: Sugarfina Sweets: Sugar Paper Stationary: Cuyana Card Holder: Happy shopping!

This gift guide is also suitable for all ages. These essentials are both classic and hot on the market. Gifting something that someone can use on a daily basis is so satisfying; it's showing them that you are observant, know them well, and are practical. These pieces below are staples for the guy(s) in your life and each is the perfect gift on its own or can be easily paired/combined. AllBird Wool Runners: Ray Bans: Barbour: Filson Medium Duffel: Patagonia Hat: Kuhl Jacket: Bose QuietComfort 35 Wireless Headphones II (Noise Cancelling): Happy shopping!

Possibly my favorite gifting guide... "For Her!". This gift guide was created for all of the ladies in your life that deserve some fresh essentials. While crafting this guide I wanted to make it applicable to a wide range of individuals and have provided some of my favorite products that come with lots of alternatives/variations. Each "step" helping you find something that is unique to her. 1. While searching for the perfect shade of lip-gloss, when in doubt, stay basic. Keeping to lighter tones that will bring out the color of her eyes, cheeks, etc. Great examples of this are shown below. (Option 1, Option 2) 2. While choosing the perfect scent, less is more. Try to sticking to light, fresh, and cool options (see options below for reference!). These are some of my favorites form Jo Malone London (Option 1, Option 2, Option 3,) 3. While shopping for clothing, depending on the individual, think unique but not necessarily bold. Try purchasing something that will complement other existing pieces in their wardrobe (and don’t be afraid to drop this hint when they are finally presented with their perfect present). This will show them that you are observant and stylish. ;) Clothing: (Option 1, Option 2, Option 3) Sunnies: (Option 1, Option 2, Option 3) 4. Here is another ideas that is versatile yet basic and is sure to make her smile this holiday season. Bose Quiet Comfort 35 Wireless Headphones (Noise Cancelling) Happy shopping!

I have been listening to Christmas music since early November and although this is WAY too early for some, I love it. I find that it helps calm me, excite me, and makes me grateful. Whether it be the incorporation of sweaters into my wardrobe once again, creamy soups becoming a weekly ritual or the sight of frost in the morning- winter is definitely upon us. With this comes a time of joy, but it can be stressful as well. I am sharing the perfect gifting tips for those closest to our hearts and the new friends we are sharing our traditions with for the first time. I agree with the statement that "it's the thought that counts" but we don't just want our gifting extravaganzas to end there. In a means of finding the perfect gift, here are three steps to help you along the way. 1. Think about what this person means to you and contributes to your life. For example, is there an annual tradition that you have with your sister that you could build upon? Or would it be meaningful to start a tradition this year? On the other hand... have you been talking with your new neighbor about wanting to be in the kitchen more? Invite them over for a special fall/winter afternoon. Start by relaxing in your living room chatting over a new cocktail recipe or appetizer. Next, move into the dining room where you have prepared a delicious looking spread that puts everyone immediately in the holiday spirit. It doesn't have to be grand but showing that you put time into this thoughtful act goes a long way. Lastly, end the night with a warm savory or sweet dessert. This will leave them yearning for the winter season and with a stronger friendship than you started. (One of my favorite food bloggers is Dennis the Prescott check out his page for endless inspiration.) 2. Don't put too much pressure on yourself. The holidays can be a time in which we stress over getting the PERFECT gift. Although, in most cases, the "perfect" gift will come naturally and won't need to be forced. Think simply and the rest will follow. 3. Enjoy! Whether it be the search for or the presentation of this special something, let it come from the heart and enjoy this time that you have with those that you love. Don't get distracted by the minor complications but instead focus on the joy that it will/has brought you both in the end. Best of luck in your gifting endeavors and happy holidays! #Christmas #Holiday #Gifting #Tips #Simple #Presents

Happy Halloween! With Halloweekend upon us, I thought that I would share a fun activity for those of all ages-- the pumpkin patch. This year my family and I went to the pumpkin patch on the most spectacular day. It was sunny and although there was a slight breeze the warmth of the sun warmed our backs perfectly. The weather is one of my favorite things about fall. We are greeted by crisp temperatures every morning, perfect for sweaters and boots galore, and if we are lucky here in Seattle, the sun. In anticipation for my adventure next year of potentially moving away from Seattle for college, I am growing to appreciate some of the things that I know are unique to the Pacific Northwest. This has been one of the best falls that I can remember, and I don't want to jinx anything but I am hoping that it decides to accompany us for a little while longer. :) For our trip to the pumpkin patch this year (as tradition) we ventured over to Remlinger Farms. It is a beautiful piece of land that has everything from corn mazes, to several pumpkin patch areas (ready for the claiming!), and a market where you can find the biggest caramel apples, fresh pies, and other gifts from the land. I wore these Hunter boots, on our adventure, that were perfect! I love these boots because they are unique and don't resemble every other Hunter on the market but comfortable as well. I paired them with my J. Crew Field Jacket, a striped navy and cream long sleeve, my Frame jeans, and a George, Gina, and Lucy purse. I encourage you to take on this seasonal tradition and I hope that you have a fun and safe Halloween! #Fall #Seattle #Boots #Fashion #JCrew

Happy Fall! I recently found this amazing brand called Trask based out of Nashville, Tennessee. They make a variety of goods using premium leathers that enhance the experience of the customer and leaves them wishing for more. I have four pairs of their shoes and will be doing blog posts on each in the future but wanted to feature this Allison bootie today. This color, Teak, is perfect for our transition from summer to fall. It reminds me of the falling leaves and is a great compliment to the cozy sweaters, jeans, and more that are making their way into our wardrobes. In this scenario, I paired them with a cream J. Crew sweater, rolled J. Crew jeans, my Louis Vuitton cross-body (which is also a great accompaniment to fall colors), a leather Ralph Lauren belt and this leather cuff. This water-resistant suede and Vibram® sole are perfect for the ever-existing potential for a little sprinkle as we enter into fall. These booties also have on of the comfiest insoles called Ortholite®. Although I am not usually one for booties, this was a major persuasion point in my deciding to get these (and my 3 other pairs of Trask shoes). #Fall #Boots #Booties #Fashion #mytrask

This summer, I got this darling Liberty top from one of their partnerships with J.Crew. J.Crew is one of my favorite brands for basics in my wardrobe but when I saw this collection with Liberty, I fell in love. The pops of color and prints were to die for and I soon purchased this top. Its vibrant print is the perfect piece for something that can be dressed up or down. In this instance, I paired it with a pair of J.Crew jeans, Vince Camuto navy suede flats (similar here, and here) Ray-Ban aviators, my Micheal Kors tortoise watch, and my Louis Vuitton crossbody bag. One of my favorite parts about this top is the little details. Whether it be the ruffled edges or the off the shoulder style, this piece says it all. I also think that this shirt is a great statement piece for the end of summer and beginning of fall. As we head into fall I will be pairing it with my new shoes from Trask (a company that I will be doing a blog post on soon!). Happy Fall! *This shirt is selling fast so here are some similar pieces that will soon find their way into my wardrobe. ;) #SunValley #Fashion #JCrew #Liberty

I am having withdrawals now that school has officially begun; I just can't believe it! In order to transport my self (and you ;) ) back to New York I put together this piece on a little French café in NYC. Located all around the magnificent city you can find little nooks called Le Pain Quotidien. As my sister and I were shopping we decided to have lunch at the beautiful location in Central Park. With the view of a pond and people passing by, we enjoyed a delicious Grilled Chicken and Smoked Mozzarella Baguette. Made on a fresh French Baguette and seasoned with a variety of herbs, this was the perfect way to fuel our busy bodies. We also shared the Croque Monsieur. On wheat sourdough bread and filled with grilled cheese, ham, and herbs de Provence, this divine sandwich will literally melt in your mouth. To quench our thirst we each had homemade Rasberry Lemonade and freshly squeezed Lemonade. It was so hot out so this was the perfect way to relax and reboot. :) Lastly, we enjoyed a scrumptious Apple Turnover decorated with sugar crystals in a means of enhancing the sweet and flaky interior of the treat. Next time you are in New York City, be sure to make Le Pain Quotidien a stop on your adventure! #NewYorkCity #Restaurant #Food #Cafe #Bakery #Lunch #French #Travel

While exploring the financial district, my sister and I went to lunch at Eataly. Eataly is a wonderful Italian market, founded by Oscar Farinetti, filled with fine meats, cheeses, and other delicacies. First, we took a loop around the market place to see what we were inspired by. Then, we went back to each item we had "bookmarked" and knew we were in for a special treat. We started with the Pasta Fredda with Sweet Pork Sausage, Pecorino, Broccoli Rabe, Pine Nuts, and Olive Oil. Following, we split a Panino Prosciutto Crudo with fresh Mozzarella. As a side we had a small bowl of fresh pineapple that was to die for. And lastly, we treated ourselves to a crepé at the Nutella bar where we were sitting. I would definitely recommend making Eataly a destination on your New York itinerary, as it was the perfect start to an afternoon of exploring the city! #Eataly #Food #NewYorkCity #Italian

Last week I was in New York City and stayed at The Plaza. When looking for places to stay I kept two things in mind, 1.Location 2.Customer Service/Quality. Located in the southeast corner of Central Park, The Plaza was perfect. When we arrived at The Plaza we were greeted by sweet treats and Belvoir Sparkling Elderflower & Rose Lemonade. In advance, my sister and I made sure that we would be maximizing our time in New York by creating a day-to-day itinerary. The objective of this trip was not necessarily one of tourist means but instead one of shopping and exploring the city streets. :) We made a list of all of the stores that we wanted to go to, pinned each of them on a map, and then divided/assigned them (based on location) to a day. Next, we worked on the meal aspect of our trip. I made sure that for each day we at least had a lunch and dinner. We knew (based on previous trips and practicality) that breakfast was not going to be a major meal for us so we decided that if we were hungry we would grab something quick at a little cafe on our way but did not necessarily need a reservation/plan. Keeping all of this in mind The Plaza Hotel was a spectacular location for us to call home. *There will be a full New York City Travel Guide & Itinerary coming soon! #Travel #NewYorkCity #Hotel

In Sun Valley, ID there are a variety of restaurants and each presents a unique twist on the culture represented. At Globus, the Asian fusion menu is fantastic! We requested to sit on the outdoor patio upstairs in order to watch the sunset and to possibly see the northern lights. It was so beautiful that night and the sky was amazing. I would definitely recommend requesting the outdoor seating area as the environment is ideal. While dining, the area is lit by strands of lights above and candles illuminate each table. To start we ordered the chili glazed brussel sprouts, Tandoori naan bread, and the five spice pork dumplings. The chili glazed brussel sprouts were the perfect dish to share among several adults (with a couple other small plates) because a scoop or two and you were set. The grilled edges were well balanced by the sweet and spicy glaze. The dumplings were also fantastic. They were filled with flavor and the side sauce was just the right accompaniment. As my main dish, I had the Green Thai Curry and it was fantastic. I have had it as described on the menu in the past but typically add a protein. This time I paired it with grilled chicken. Some of the other dishes that individuals in my party ordered were the baby back ribs and the bison special. The ribs were made with a honey hoisin BBQ sauce and on the side, there was an apple & celery slaw and jasmine rice. Another individual in our party ordered the special, a bison tenderloin with fresh sprouts. Between the fresh and local ingredients that were used to create each fantastic dish and the lovely scenery, the night was spectacular to say the least. #SunValley #Restaurant #Food #Dinner #Travel