Obsession Confession: Freckles

I have a somewhat unhealthy obsession with freckles. I've always thought of them as kisses from angels ☺. As a young child, I used to wish I had a smattering of these magical marks on my face.

This obsession may have started with a caretaker at my grandfather's house who I loved as a child. Her name was Rose and she always smelled like cinnamon, oatmeal and fresh soap. She was fair skin with auburn hair and endless freckles on her face. She was super sweet and treated me with the utmost care. That was the start of me associating freckles with beauty.

Images from We Heart It

Celebrate "imperfections"!

Moxie Monday: The Try-Angle

The best angle from which to approach any problem is the try-angle. Don't be afraid of taking an extra step to reach your goals!

What goals have you accomplished lately?

Delectable Designers: Mandate of Heaven

Girly. Whimsical. Fun.

Those were the first words that came to mind when I discovered Mandate of Heaven online. They're definitely the kind of clothes made for the eccentric lover of vintage beauty.

Every piece (with the exception of their Bespoke Denim) is created partially/completely with recycled or vintage materials.

The clothing is quite magical and their Spring 2010 Opiate collection is BRILLIANT:

You can view more of the line here.

Shop them online at Bona Drag or visit their store. Info for their flagship store/studio can be found below:

Mandate of Heaven

406 Lorimer Street @ Stagg

3rd Floor

Brooklyn, NY

Celebrate haute fashion!

Wednesday Wishes: Candy Coat(ed)

Today's post is sponsored by the letters B and R. Brrr!

November is here and with it comes chilly weather, the holidays and mugs full of hot chocolate with endless marshmallows. Today, I wish for chic candy colored coats that provide an even dose of warmth and style:

1. French Connection Military Coat, $279.07

2. Lia Lintern Sofia Coat, $645

3. Dorothy Perkins Pink-Tiered Coats, $122

4. Malene Birger Justinas Jacket, $648

5. Mackage Miley Coat, $620

6. Old Navy Belted-Wool Blend Jacket, $69.50

Celebrate warmth!

Steph

Obsession Confession: Mug Shots

If you know me, you also know about my slight obsession with mugs and teacups. I'll drink almost any beverage (hot or cold) out of a mug. If I'm feeling fancy, I'll even drink it out of a champagne or wine glass. That's just the kind of girl I am!

As if I didn't have enough, I'm always keeping an eye out for these cozy beverage vessels. I like the idea of having mismatched mugs and teacups in the house. Each one tells a story and serves it's own purpose. I've come across a few favorites online that need to make their ways into my home ASAP:

1. BoldLoft "Catch My Love" Couples Coffee Mug, $27: Perfect for sipping hot chocolate on a Sunday while reading NY Times with the hubby.

2. Royal Albert Teacup & Saucers, $129.99: Call the girls over and let's have a tea party! Cucumber finger sandwiches required!

3. Anthropologie Monogrammed Mugs, $7: Pour a steaming cup of hazelnut coffee into these darlings before heading out to run weekend errands.

4. Three Potato Four Cafemug, $22: By far my favorite mug. Complete with a cute little bowl that sits perfectly on top! Cookies and milk, this one's for you.

5. bookofjoe Soup + Crackers Mug, 2 for $14.98: Weekday chili? Don't mind if I do. Just replace those saltines with cornbread, please and thank you.

6. Signals Tea Talk Mug, $9.95: Perfect for keeping on your desk at work.

Celebrate thirst quenchers!

Steph

It's Our Anniversary!

A year ago today, I married my best friend. I remember the ups and downs of wedding planning and the anticipation of counting down the days. October 25, 2008 came and went and we took it all in and labeled it the best day ever.

Now, here we are -- still learning and growing and continuing to make a perfect little life for ourselves as we watch time fly. I couldn't have asked for a better man to be by my side through this journey. So, here's to a fantastic year and to the promise of many more to come!

Happy Anniversary babes!

Food for Thought: Ultra-Thin-Crust Pizza

When I was a kid, I looked forward to the weekends because it was the ONLY time my parent's would order out. Growing up, my mom was always working a full-time job, but managed to cook us wholesome dinners during the week. Eating out or ordering in was definitely a luxury, not a necessity.

Pizza was one of my favorite things to eat -- actually it still is ☺. I remember ordering a pie with my Dad at a local pizza shop when I was about 10 years old and exclaiming that I wanted to move to Italy so I can eat pizza everyday. He just laughed and told me that when I got older, I would probably change my mind about that. What is it about parents that they're always right??

Fast-forward to today. I still do like to try out different restaurants and eat out with my husband, family and friends. But, nothing is more enjoyable to me (with the exception of shopping for new shoes) than trying out new recipes. Particularly the kinds that put a spin on my favorite dishes. So, I thought I'd share this drool-worthy Ultra-Thin-Crust Pizza recipe (found here) that I myself am looking forward to trying in the near future. This one lists onions & mushrooms, but you can always customize it and add your favorite toppings.

So go ahead. Give it a try and enjoy! Just don't forget to save me a slice ☺.

Celebrate cheesy-goodness!
Steph

Recipe courtesy of Elise [via Simply Recipes]