On the Menu: Cheesy Breakfast Casserole

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day. During the week, I do not have time to make a big breakfast in the morning so I sometimes make breakfast food for dinner. This casserole combines everything you need for a good breakfast. I like to use hot sausage to add a little spice to the meal. Plus the cheesy goodness is so delicious. The eggs achieve the perfect level of doneness and are light and fluffy. Once you throw it all in the pan you have almost a full meal and you just have to sit back and wait for it to bake.



Ingredients
1 Can of Biscuits
1 Pound of Sausage
1 cup Shredded Mozzarella
1 cup Shredded Cheddar
6 Eggs
3/4 cup Milk
Salt and Pepper

Directions
1. Line a 8x8 pan will alumni foil and spray with nonstick spray. Preheat the oven to 425.
2. Slice the sausage and fry. Drain the excess grease and chop up the sausage. Set aside for now.
3. Open the biscuits and cut each biscuit into 6-8 pieces. Put in the pan. Sprinkle sausage over the biscuits.
4. In a bowl beat the eggs. Add the milk. Salt and pepper to taste. Stir together. Then pour over the sausage and biscuits.
5. Top with the mozzarella and cheddar.
6. Bake for 30-45 minutes until the cheese has melted and started browning. Best eaten right away while still warm.

Happy Weekend!

Well we are finishing another week of no work for me. The snow and very cold temperatures haven't allowed us to have school this week, so no going to work for me. I still did some work though, what I could from here at home. I updated grades and planned for when we would get back to school. All of our students also have an online class that they must finish soon, so I have been emailing and contacting those students to update them on what they need to do and to remind them that time is running out. All in all for the past two weeks I have probably completed a day or two of work. So I have had all of this free time at home. I did a lot of the things mentioned here this week. Other than that I have been searching on Pinterest to find new crafts or DIY projects that I want to try and looking for new recipes that I want to make.

This weekend I am looking forward to finishing up a few things that I have been working on here at home before I start back to work next week. Next week will most definitely be busy and hectic with us having two weeks off. There is a lot to get finished and I just know the kids will be wild after the extended break from school. So this weekend I need to get prepared for that and take a little time to relax because it will be hard too next week. What are your weekend plans?


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Friday Favorites

Cashmere Sweater / Get It Girl Pouch / Hello Tee (adorable!) / Stripe Headband / Geometric 3D Stud Earrings (only $12) / Pearl Trio Ring / Working For The Weekend Pencils / Viv Flats (so comfy!) / Pleated Midi Skirt
This has been a rough week. Being back at work has been overwhelming after the unexpected week off due to the weather. I cannot wait to have my routine back down. This week some of my favorite finds include this pink sweater and this great little ring. I am really loving this style of headbands for spring (here is a similar, less expensive version and here is another).

6 Jumpsuits That You Will Love

Stripe Jumpsuit / DVF Jumpsuit / V Neck Jumpsuit / Slouchy Jumpsuit / Leather Trim Jumpsuit / Drawstring Jumpsuit
Jumpsuits happen to be a trend that you either love or you hate. I used to fall in the latter category but now I am fully on the bandwagon and have totally fallen for how comfortable they are. Plus they make getting dressed a snap. I realize that for some body shapes it can take some work to find one that is flattering but I wholeheartedly encourage you to give them a try. Six of my current favorites are above. I am totally loving stripe number.

Stylish for Less: Modcloth Novel Tees

Pride and Prejudice - Goodnight Moon - Madeline
Alice's Adventures in Wonderland - For Whom the Bell Tolls - The Great Adventures of Sherlock Holmes

I have recently discovered Modcloth's Novel Tees! I love them all! Anyone who loves to read would love any of these tees, especially if it's in one of their favorite books. I love how some of them are for favorite childhood stories. My sisters and I loved reading and watching Madeline when we were growing up, so I know all of us would love the Madeline Tee because of that. Our book club read Pride and Prejudice a few months ago and we all loved that book, so I know several people who would really enjoy that tee. Here I have collected some of my favorite Modcloth Novel Tees and the best part is that they are all under $30! What are your thoughts on Novel Tees? Would you want one? What book would you like to see a tee for?

10 Free Things to do Alone to Beat Boredom

Every find yourself stuck at home alone and bored to death? It has happened to me several times this Winter with the weather getting so horrible and leaving me stuck, alone at home. I'm going to share with you some free and fun things to do to beat that boredom! These are things you can do at home, alone, with things you already have laying around.

TIP 1 // Beauty Time: Treat yourself by painting your nails. Give yourself that mani/pedi you have been putting off because you didn't have the time. I don't know about you but I have a ton of nail polish that I need to be using.

TIP 2 // Destress Yourself: Have you been feeling stressed lately? Then use this time to put on some soft music and run a bubble bath. Relax in the warm tub while listening to the music or reading a book. I know I don't usually take the time for a bath and instead opt for a quick shower. You could even take time to meditate. Tracy has used several free meditation apps on her iPhone.

TIP 3 // Exercise: This is another thing I put off when I am busy, but if I'm already stuck at home and bored, why not get in some exercise time. There are plenty of free apps to use, pop in a work out video, or try something new.

TIP 4 // Clear Up that DVR: I am always having to record my favorite tv shows because I am out or too busy to really watch them. This is the perfect time to round up some snacks from the kitchen and veg out in front of the tv.

TIP 5 // Send Some Snail Mail: I love receiving snail mail, so I always make time to send some to my friends so that I will get some back. Pull out your paper and envelops and write some quick notes to friends. Throw some glitter or confetti in to bring up a friends day and decorate with some washi tape.

TIP 6 // Catch Up on your Reading: Finish that book you have been working on. Enjoy the newspaper or some fashion magazines. Read some of your favorite blogs. Dig into you must read pile and pull out a great book.

TIP 7 // Be Creative: If you are like me, you have a box of supplies that you have purchased for various DIY projects that you haven't found the time to complete yet. Hunt that box out and pull up the instructions and get busy.

TIP 8 // Get Busy in the Kitchen: Find a recipe to try by looking through your cook books or your Pinterest boards. I have multiple boards on Pinterest dedicated to recipes I want to try: Brunch, Dinner, Sweet Treats, and Appetizers. Look at what you have on hand and make yourself a treat. Experiment with some new recipe.

TIP 9 // Learn Something New: I believe we all need to keep learning new things. Pick a topic you are interested in and read some online articles. I love learning new things about animals online. Other topics I enjoy researching are ghosts, mythology, ancient Egypt, and places that I would love to travel too.

TIP 10 // Be a Kid: Act like a kid again. Color in a coloring book. Play some video games. Read some of your favorite childhood stories. As a kid my favorite story was Tawny Scrawny Lion and I still pull that book out to reread it.


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Wise Words

A reminder that after having my routine and work thrown off by the major snow storm last week I need to get myself together and do some serious hustling this week. Here's hoping your work week is going more smoothly than mine.

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What to Wear: Board Game Night

Floral Print Silk Bomber Jacket beautiful! - Tassel Necklace - Cat Tee so cute - Ticket to Ride Board Game - Takenoko Board Game - Ciate Nail Polish - Distressed Jeans - Pale Pink Tote Bag love the color - Pink Loafers

So we are still stuck around the house from all the bad weather. We have had a lot of game nights and movie nights in the last 10 days. They have been a lot of fun, so I thought I would put together a look to wear to game night. Granted if it's just the family at game night or movie night, I dress a little more casual in sweatpants or pjs depending on how late we start. If I were going over to a friends house or having friends over though I would dress a little nicer but still casual. So for me a game night look would definitely embody comfy jeans and a tee. The colorful jacket just screams fun to me just like a game night should be. And of course you need a tote bag so that you can carry a few of your favorite games with you when you go out for game night. What would you wear to game night?

Loafers Are For Everyone

Zebra Leather Loafers adorable - Leopard Print Loafers
Studded Suede Loafers great price - Leather Studded Loafers
Plaid Loafers - Velvet Loafers with Gold Crest beautiful details
Kate Spade Loafers love the other color too - Gold Glitter Loafers



Loafers are absolutely stunning shoes. Honestly, I don't think anyone can say they would never wear a pair. They come in such a wide range of colors, patterns, and styles that anyone can find a pair they would absolutely love. Above I have gathered some of my favorites from around the web to show that loafers really are for everyone. My favorite pair would have to be between these and these. It is just so hard to pick just one pair. What's your favorite? Do you currently own any loafers? If I buy a new pair of shoes any time soon, they will definitely be a pair of loafers. On my next shopping trip I will be scoping stores out for a beautiful pair. I have a hard time finding shoes online that fit me well, so I always by shoes in person. This Spring I want to be rocking a pair of these in the nice, sunshiney weather though. What about you?

Chit Chat: Would You Visit A Psychic?

Have you ever visited a psychic? Or would you?

I read this article a couple weeks ago. In it the author discusses her experiences while visiting 3 different "$10 psychics" in New York. While I didn't find the experiences contained in the article impressive (how impressive is a reading you get for $10 going to be?) it did remind me that visiting a psychic has been on both mine and Jessica's to-do lists for over 2 years.

Something I have never told a lot of people is that I believe in psychics, karma, magic, horoscopes (proud Leo here!), ghosts/spirits, etc. Not in a crazy way I promise. More of in an unless I am given a reason not to believe I am going to remain open kind of way. I maintain a healthy level of skepticism but tend to refuse to close myself off from the possibility of unexplainable things existing. In my opinion the world much more dull if I had to be so frigid with what I believe in.

So in the 2 years since Jessica and I have decided we want to visit a psychic why haven't we? There are a few different reasons. We don't really live in the ideal spot to find a local psychic (although I did Google and find a few a couple hours away). I am also a tiny bit afraid that I would receive bad news. The biggest reason though is that while I do believe there are some legitimate psychics I also believe that there are many more who are scams. Since we will added this to our to-do for fun and will not be heading into this looking for any profound life answers I think it is about time Jessica and I finally take the plunge, do a little research, see if we can gather a few more friends who would be willing to participate, and book ourselves an appointment.

After I visit a physic I'll share the details here but until then I would love to know if any of you have visited a psychic. What was the experience like? What did the psychic tell you? Any tips on how to find the right psychic for my reading or tips to prepare myself?

image: Silhouettes by Harry Finder

The Sunday Edition

If you are a fan of all things Kate Spade (and who isn't?) than you must check out this DIY Glittery Stud Earrings that Tracy posted earlier this week. These cost less than $3 to make and turned out so beautiful.

I'm a huge fan of the color blocking in these Hunter Boots and they would be rather useful for all this snow we have been getting.

This great Kate Spade satchel would be perfect with any look.

Take this quiz for fun and see what you get. What Kind of Feline are You? I'm a jaguar.

This White Hot Chocolate would be perfect for these long cold days.

Check out these great dresses on The Best Dresses from NY Fashion Week list.

Go have an awww moment when you read these 15 Crazy Romantic Love Quotes from TV and Movies. They are so sweet!

23 Profound Disney Quotes That Will Inspire You! I love these. They make me think about watching these movies with my siblings!


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On The Menu: Maple Walnut Oat Scones

One morning last week I had a little free time so I thought I would try baking scones. This is my first time baking scones. They were surprisingly a lot easier to bake than I ever thought and they smell so good baking. The delicious smell of maple drifting out my kitchen is always something I will love. These scones are delicious and a friend who claims scones are one of her favorite foods claimed these were one of the best scones she had ever had.

Ingredients:
2-3/4 cups all-purpose Flour
1/2 cup Regular Oats, Ground In Blender
1/3 cup Sugar
2 Tablespoons Baking Powder
1/4 teaspoon Salt
2 sticks (1 Cup) Cold Butter, Cut Into Cubes
1/2 cup Walnuts, Finely Chopped
3/4 cups Heavy Cream (more If Needed)
1 whole Egg
1 teaspoon Maple Extract

Frosting Ingredients:
5 cups Powdered Sugar
1/4 cup Whole Milk
2 Tablespoons Melted Butter
4 teaspoons Maple Extract

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, ground oats, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Add butter pieces and use a pastry cutter to work the butter and dry ingredients together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped walnuts.
4. Whisk together the cream, egg, and 1 teaspoon maple extract. Pour into flour mixture, stirring gently, until it all comes together. (Mixture will not come together in one cohesive ball; it should be in a few large clumps with some crumbs in the bowl.) If it is overly crumbly and will not come together at all, add a couple of tablespoons of extra cream and work it in.
5. Turn the dough out onto a cutting board or floured surface and use your hands to press into a 6-to-8-inch circle about 3/4 inch thick. Cut into 8 equal wedges (or you can cut into smaller wedges to get more.) Transfer to a baking sheet lined with a baking mat or parchment and bake for 20-24 minutes, or until poufy and set and just barely golden. (Shouldn't have much color on them at all.) Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
6. Combine all the icing ingredients. Make sure it's thick but still pourable. Drizzle a very generous amount on each one, then sprinkle on a few more chopped walnuts. Allow the icing to set completely, then serve.

Recipe adapted from Pioneer Woman.

Happy Weekend

The snow here has been crazy. Life in my small town was almost at a standstill for a few days while roads remained dangerous to travel. As a result I was unable to make the almost 90 minute drive to my office and spent most of the week inside, near the fireplace, and trying to stay warm. Even though I am a true homebody at heart even I was beginning to feel a little cabin fever.

This weekend Jessica and I are hosting a game night, have cousin visiting from out of town, and helping to throw our little brother a birthday dinner (I plan to bake my brother's favorite cheesecake and Jessica has promised a mint chocolate cake!). We also have book club at our friend's house Saturday and we will be discussing this book. I host book club next week. I have chosen The Cuckoo's Calling. If you have read this book I would love to hear your thoughts on it.

What will you be doing this weekend?

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Friday Favorites

Leopard Print Cardigan SASSY! - Marc Jacobs Wool Coat - Cat Mug adorable mug - Kate Spade Pom Pom Slipper - Blue Hunter Boots - The Pursuit of Style Coffee Table Book - Bow Sweater so cozy

Seriously it has been snowing here every day since Saturday and it's so cold that it's not going away. I'm not upset about all the snow. I have enjoyed the break from work and getting things done at home. But the weather has influenced my favorite items this week. My favorites are all about warmth and tall boots. I need tall boots for this amount of snow. We haven't been anywhere since Friday. The weather is just horrible and the roads aren't safe. I can look out my window and see cars sliding as they try to go places. So I am definitely all about kicking back inside wearing some adorable slipper and drinking some hot chocolate out of a cat mug. What do you think about my favorites.

Snow Day

On Saturday it started snowing here and it has been snowing on and off since. We have over a foot of snow outside and freezing temperatures. We may even make it to twenty below zero tonight. Until now we haven't had much of a winter, just a few snow falls that covered the grass. And we still have chances of snow every day for the next seven days. My students that have been wishing for snow have certainly gotten it.

So, it has been an easy week for me. No work this week because school has been cancelled. One school even had on the news this morning that it was going to be closed until further notice! So, what have I been doing with all of my my free time? Honestly, I have been trying to stay busy here at home, because I am bored. Sure, I love the break from work but with the bad weather and horrible road conditions, I can't go anywhere. I live 20 miles from the nearest town. So, I'm pretty much stuck out here until the roads are safe to travel on.

Like, I said I have been trying to stay busy though. I have cleaned and organized my bedroom. I have been getting crafty with Tracy and trying to get a few more DIY projects done. We made some more hair ties using DIY instructions we have already posted on the blog. We also finished a couple of other things that we will post about soon and hopefully we will do a few more DIY projects in the next few days. I have tried a new cake recipe, that you will see soon. I read two books and ordered a few more from Amazon. We have also had family board game time the past two days and have tried to teach our mom how to play a few of the board games we love. In the evenings Tracy, our brother, and I have popped popcorn and had Grimm marathons. I love that show.

So, what's the weather like were you are? Do you have any suggestions on how I can spend my snow days stuck at home? Any DIY projects or recipes I should try?


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Stylish For Less: Under $50

Grey Stripe Coat / Trench Coat / Mirrored Sunglasses / Cuff / Earrings / T-Strap Flats / Lace Dress / Clutch / Silky Front Tee / Fedora / XOXO Tee
Was watching your spending one of your goals in the new year? I have honestly been doing better than I expected and have managed to start putting back some money for upcoming trips. I haven't been totally depriving myself and have instead focused on picking up items that are reasonably priced and that I can see myself wearing over and over again like this trench coat (love the navy contrast) and these t-strap flats that are only $25. I love this grey coat with the contrasting white stripes. It would have definitely came in handy during this snow storm.

DIY Glittery Stud Earrings

Everyone knows I love glitter and jewelry. I always put on jewelry earrings included before leaving the house each day. Using these Kate Spade earrings as inspiration I decided to add a little glitter to two pairs of stud earrings I had picked up for less than $3. I will be picking up a couple more pairs so I can make my own gold and silver pairs too. Below are the supplies and steps to this easy DIY.

Supplies Needed:
Inexpensive Clear Stud Earrings
Glittery Nail Polish
Top Coat

Directions:
1. Add a couple coats of glittery polish to your earrings.
2 Apply top coat.
3. Allow to dry.

P.S. Find out how this polka dot jewelry dish here.

Rent Your Textbooks

Whether you are a full-time college student, part-time, or taking night classes one way to save some money is to rent your textbooks. This is something that I have become very familiar with because I just finished my Master's Degree. I have even started renting my textbooks because I can save so much money. Even though I just received my Master's Degree, I am not finished with college yet. Now it's time to get my Rank 1, so that I can get another pay raise at work.
One great website to rent textbooks from is Campus Books Rentals. You can save 40-90% off of normal bookstore prices, which can really add up! Shipping is free both when you rent the book and when you return the book. You can treat these rented books just like books you buy. You are able to write and highlight in them! You can make notes in the margins. Really, I treat the books I rent just like the textbooks I use to buy.
There are other perks to renting from Campus Books Rentals. One being that for each textbook that you rent a donation goes to Operation Smile. Another great thing is their RentBack program. Through this process you can actually make money by renting the textbooks you own! How fantastic is that?

Want to know how it works? Check out this video:



This is a paid sponsored post by http://www.campusbookrentals.com/.

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What To Wear: On A Snow Day

Cable Sweater (a favorite!) / Scarf / Coat / Pearl Necklace (classic) / Pave Stud Earrings / Emerald Ring / Pearl Ring (love this!) / Bow Beanie (adorable) / Gloves / Bucket Bag / Jeans
After having a snow storm that dropped more snow here than we have had since I was a little girl I have been enjoying snow days the last couple days. As a result I have been spending my time wearing chunky sweaters while curled up next to the fireplace, reading books including my book for book club, and eating hearty bowls of vegetable soup for dinner. Did you notice this pearl ring above? It is on the top of my wish list right now.

Are you fighting bitterly cold temperatures and tons of snow too?

Eva Franco For Lover.ly

Almost everyone who has ever been a bridesmaid has dealt with shilling out a lot of money for an unflattering dress that will never be worn more than once. Enter Lover.ly to the rescue. Lover.ly (think Pinterest for wedding planning) has become the ultimate source for all things wedding related including finding the perfect bridesmaid dresses. Lover.ly has partnered up with Eva Franco to launch a collection of vintage inspired dresses, separates, and jumpsuits for brides and their bridesmaids. The collection launched last week and would be perfect for upcoming spring and summer weddings.

Lover.ly knows what brides are searching for and struggling to find so their new collection Eva Franco for Lover.ly fills in all of those gaps. The soft color palette, romantic fabrics, classic silhouettes, and special touches such as pockets and scallop hems made me instantly fall in love with every piece of this collection.

Best thing about this collection is that these items will not be pushed to the back of a bridesmaid's closet and forgotten after the wedding. Bridesmaids will reach for these items over and over including for romantic dinners, cocktail parties, and when they are guests at other weddings. Four of my favorites from the collection are pictured above.

Not forgetting about the bride Eva Franco for Lover.ly also has several options for the bride who is not looking for the typical ballgown dress or wants something extra special for the rehearsal dinner or to change into for the reception. The ivory, halter jumpsuit pictured below is ideal for the fashion-forward bride.

I would love to know your thoughts on this new collection Lover.ly.

Chit Chat: Finding a New Hobby

A few weeks ago, I shared with you all that I wanted this to be the year I do more. I want to try more things this year and find new favorite things. I want to find more interests and develop at least one new hobby. When I'm not working or out with friends I find myself doing more of the same old things. What are your hobbies or favorite things to do? My current hobbies are reading, writing/blogging, baking, watching old movies, and hosting small get-togethers with my friends. So, when I'm not busy I am usually doing one of these things. This year though, I would like to try some new activities and new hobbies. Maybe by the end of the year I will have a new interest to add to my favorite things to do.

In January, Tracy and I decided to attend an art class at a school nearby. It seems this class is going to meet monthly and you pay each month if you want to attend. For $20 you can attend and they provide all of the materials needed to complete the project for the evening. Neither of us have had good experiences with art in the past. Tracy is still traumatized by the C she received in art class in elementary school. It's the only C she has ever received! As for me, I still remember my past art teacher making fun of my clay horse. We both wish we had more talent when it came to art.

Due to our past failures in art, I'm still not even sure why we decided to take this art class but we did and I am so glad. We have made two decent paintings each so far doing far better than I thought possible for us. It has been a lot of fun though. Meeting on a Friday evening for a couple of hours to paint is kind of like a stress reliever. It's relaxing to take a blank canvas and create something. I'm not all that worried about creating a perfect work of art but it's nice that I have surpassed my expectations. I honestly thought it would not go well at all. And who knows, with some more practice maybe we will even be good at it? Are you very talented when it comes to art?


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The Sunday Edition

The prettiest pink coat with scallop trim.

A good amount of sparkle.

A pretty little white dress that would be perfect come spring.

Bow adorned sandals.

This handbag is on my wish list.

I am tempted to try making fresh baked bread.

Words to live by.

I want to recreate Cara's hairstyle in this post.

5 ways to go from your desk to a date.

Hacks for a healthier week.

7 surprising ways to score on Etsy.

A DIY Dotted Wall Clock.

We can also be found on Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Pinterest // Bloglovin'

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Happy Weekend!

This has been a super easy week for me. Cold and snow decided to make a presence this week and we had two snow days from school on Tuesday and Thursday. My other days at work were busy with me trying to get as much done as possible. On my snow days I had time to have some fun at home, because I couldn't really go anywhere else. I slept in, which was great. Then I also enjoyed some quiet time with the cats while I read and watched tv. On Thursday, Tracy was at home and we decided to do a few crafty projects. You see them on the blog soon. It was a good week for me. What about you?

This weekend the weather is not looking nice here, so I will probably be stuck at home. I have a few projects that I want to finish though so hopefully nothing else comes up and I get them finished. If by some surprise the weather decides to be good, I would love to go out and do a little shopping. What are your weekend plans?


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Friday Favorites

Geometric Print Cardigan (love this color combination) / Ribbed Knitted Sweater / Diamond Necklace (so beautiful!) / Crystal Stud Earrings / Diptyque in Rosafolia / Midi Skirt (pretty in pink!) / Lace Bra (very feminine) / Slip On Sneakers / Cat Eyed Sunglasses / The Fashionable Cocktail (adorable book)
Yay for Fridays! Even if it does happen to be a Friday the 13th. This week I have obviously been drawn to soft colors and delicate jewelry (and intimates). This diamond necklace took my breathe away. I love the soft purple shade of this sweater and these sneakers are pricey but so pretty. What colors have you been loving lately?

Staying In

Pajama Set / Relax Eye Mask / Aerin Rose Lip Conditioner (amazing product) / L'Occitane Hand Cream / Shams (available in a variety of colors) / Velvet Slippers (pom-poms!) / Deep Sleep Body Therapy / Throw / This Works Deep Sleep Bath Oil / Diptyque in Rosafolia (amazing scent!) / Williams-Sonoma Chocolate Bar, Caramel / I'll Drink to That
I am working from home today and I am not budging from this house. As soon as I get the necessary items on my work to do list done I am calling it a day and climbing back in bed. Some evenings are just meant for staying home in cozy pajamas watching favorite movies and reading a good book. One more note before signing off. Have you tried these chocolate bars yet? They are simply delicious.

Stylish for Less: Floral Prints Under $50

Jacquard Blazer love this - Tie Back Dress - Lace Bra - Canvas Shoes - Silk Handkerchief - Retro Sunglasses - Smoking Slippers I want to wear these all the time! - Canvas Tote - Floral Trousers love the colors

I love floral prints and wear them year round. I think they make beautiful prints. Paired with the right items they can work for any situation depending on the print and the colors used to make it. This blazer could be for a casual look with some jeans and tee or it could be for work with a solid blue dress. Right? My favorite item from above would have to be these floral trousers. I love the mix of bright colors in the print and they just seem so fun. I would definitely use these in a casual look for hanging out with friends.

The Single Girl's Guide to Valentine's Day: 8 Ideas for Owning the Day

I know there are people out there who hate Valentine’s Day but I just cannot be one of those people. Is it cheesy? Yes. Do I accept that it is kind of a superficial holiday? Yes. But it is a holiday and the most girly of all holidays. How could I possibly dislike a day filled with pinks and reds, glitter, hearts, flowers, and chocolates. If you know anything about me you know that is just now possible.

I also might be one of the few people that this applies to but being single on Valentine’s Day doesn’t bother me. I am going to choose to embrace the day and have fun. So if you are single come February 14th don’t let it get you down. Below are my eight ideas for how single girls can spend Valentine’s Day and actually enjoy the holiday.

ONE // Spend the night with your celebrity crush. Whether it is Jake Gyllenhall, Ryan Gosling, or Johnny Depp get a few of his movies, pick up your favorite dinner, and devote the night to spending some quality time with your celebrity crush.

TWO // Treat yourself. There is no one better to spend the money you worked hard to earn on than yourself. So since there is no guy in the picture waiting for a Valentine’s Day gift from you take yourself to the salon for a new hairstyle, buy yourself that handbag or dress you have been coveting, or treat yourself to a mani/pedi.

THREE // Play hooky with your best friend. Who wants to stay at work seeing the flower deliveries all day. Convince your best friend to spend the day doing something fun like going to the theater to see a romantic comedy, shopping, or going to a museum.

FOUR // Volunteer. Spread some love by doing something totally selfless and helping others who are less fortunate. I bet you will end the day feeling great about yourself.

FIVE // Throw a party for your single girlfriends. Surround yourself with some of your best girlfriends. Over indulge in good food and drinks. Laugh and gossip and just in general enjoy their company. Suggest that everyone wear pink (or go the opposite route and designate black as the color for your get-together). The DIY balloons from Studio DIY would be great decor or gifts for your friends.

SIX // Organize a secret cupid. Draw names with a group of your single friends and then deliver a gift to each other so that everyone can have a Valentine.

SEVEN // Enjoy your own company. Remind yourself how lucky you are. You can do whatever you want without having to take into consideration a significant other. Make a list of activities you have been wanting to do and spend Valentine’s Day marking a few of them off of your list or simply spend the day reading a great book or cooking a recipe from scratch.

EIGHT // Ignore Valentine’s Day. There is no reason you have to make a big deal out of Valentine’s Day. If you really cannot see any way you could possibly enjoy the day just treat it like any other day. Stay home to avoid the couples, order take out, and watch Netflix. Tomorrow will be better.

Image via: Studio DIY, edited by Sunny Days and Starry Nights

Bookworm: Books For The Francophile

Paris Street Style: A Guide to Effortless Chic
How to Be Parisian Wherever You Are
The French Cat (furry felines photographed with lovely French backgrounds!)
The Sweet Life in Paris
Paris: An Inspiring Tour of the City's Creative Heart
Tout Sweet (for anyone who has ever dreamed of starting all over in France)
Parisian Chic: A Style Guide (tips of becoming effortlessly glamorous)
At Home with Madame Chic
Mastering the Art of French Eating

I am not sure when my fascination with France began or even why but I am without a doubt smitten with all things French. Another thing I love is books so you can certain that I happily collect any book about France that I can get my hands on. The newest book in my collection is this book that Jessica got me for Christmas. I love flipping through its pages when I have a couple quiet minutes. Above are a few more of my favorites. Do you have any suggestions for books that this Francophile should read?