My oh my what a week it’s been. To say that I was overwhelmed by all of your support after Monday’s announcement is an understatement. You guys. I can’t tell you how much your comments, emails and tweets mean to me. Truly, I am so humbled by your words of encouragement. And I feel honored too. I told Joe that the part about all of this that means the most to me is that I am inadvertently inspiring so many of you to keep chasing after your goals. I am promising you now that I will continue to do everything I can to inspire and encourage you. Let’s start with this: Don’t settle. KEEP GOING. Have faith in yourself and in your future. Okay?

Now, on to a few other notes and ramblings (including the winner of the Refinery 29 + Herringbone giveaway, and why the above photo references Friday when it’s Thursday…):

+ Beginning tomorrow and over the weekend, vmac+cheese will be doing a little housekeeping. Nothing major — the site is migrating to a new platform, and the layout will be changing slightly, but you should still be able to stop by and check back on posts from the week. However, because of the behind the scenes updates, I won’t be posting anything tomorrow, hence me sharing my usual random Friday thoughts (and the link of the week!) today. I’ll share more details about the new layout on Monday, once it’s all up and running and I can explain it better!

+ Oh, so, you’re probably wondering who won that ridiculously gorgeous bag from Herringbone and Refinery 29, aren’t you? Well, mosey right on over here to find out!!

+ Today I’m over on Cupcakes for Breakfast sharing a simple vanilla-almond raspberry tart recipe I put together as a potential Valentine’s Day (and beyond) dessert. Go take a look! It’s all so very Vivaleur…

+ So, this weekend. Good LORD I am excited to have my first full weekend off in months. Like, probably at least 6 months. And we have no plans, which kind of makes it even better. I’m going to try really hard to sleep in (though these days, with so much happening, it’s next to impossible), do laundry, clean the house, run errands…basically all the things I’ve let go over the last…well, it’s too embarrassing to tell you how long.

+ Link of the week time! I hear from new bloggers a lot, so the minute I read it, I knew this post on Shop Sweet Things just had to be my link today. Jeanne put together her top 10 tips for first year bloggers, and I agree with every last one of them. Don’t miss it! And if you still want to bounce some ideas around, shoot me an email! My blog consultation services are more affordable than you think. ;)

{Image Credit: Gary Pepper Vintage}

Today I’m also going to try switching up Friday Link Love a little bit, and instead of featuring a longer list of things to check out, I’m going to share my favorite blogger, blog post, article, whatever. Less to sift through, and you’ll know I mean business — each Friday’s link is definitely a fave!

This week, I was blown away by this DIY ‘melting heart’ tutorial from Erin. How pretty (and easy) is this? And can you believe it’s actually made out of crayons? So neat.

A little announcement that’s leading up to a big one: be sure to check back in here on Monday. I have some very exciting news to share with you! That’s right…the project I’ve been alluding to for months is about to be revealed! Get excited. I know I am.

Hope you all have a fantastic weekend, and enjoy the Super Bowl!!

{Image Credits: Project Foodie, The Galley Gourmet, Daily Mail, Jose Villa, Greg Considine Flickr, Jamie Beck} 

Happy Friday, friends! Before we dive in to this week’s links, I wanted to take a second to say hi and welcome to all the new vmac+cheese readers who are here because of referrals from Mini-Alt Week or Alt itself! Thanks for stopping by!

I have to be honest with you: this week was a total doozy. You come back from something like Alt and your mind is swirling with so many thoughts, ideas, and questions. I’ve also had lots going on in my personal life (engagement yes, and some other particularly juicy points of interest that I’ll discuss soon, promise) that have made things a little crazy around these parts. I’m so happy to see the weekend and hopefully sleep in as much as possible. Do you ever find that when you’re extra busy, you can’t sleep in because your mental to-do list wakes you up? Dear brain, let’s try and shut it down this weekend, mmkay?

If you’re new to vmac+cheese, each Friday I like to post a list of my favorite links from the week. Be sure to check these out if you find yourself with some quiet time and a cup of tea!

+ The food posts from the last few weeks were out of control good! First, check out Jaclyn’s homemade oreo cookies. So pretty and a million times less processed than the store bought version.
+ Similarly, Lara attempted my favorite Girl Scout cookie of all time, the caramel delite, also known as the Samoa in virtually every part of the country except for Texas.
+ Sarah shared her gorgeous photos from homemade chocolate and sea salt peanut butter cups. PS, they’re vegan!
+ So now that you’ve indulged in all the sweets, did you notice your skin flared up? Yeah, it’s not a coincidence. Dairy, refined carbs, and zinc deficiency are often the culprit, and I personally have noticed a difference when I cut these things out. I’m glad The Beauty Department is reporting on this too!
+ On to my first ever mentions of wedding planning. Or lack thereof. I really have done nothing, you guys. But I was happy to meet Sara at Alt, and to subscribe to her wedding blog Marry This! I need to balance all of the pretty, aspirational wedding goodness that’s out there with the more realistic yet equally as inspiring.
+ Similarly, if and when we ever put up a wedding website, I hope our guest book is 1/10th as hilarious as Bridget and Chris’s, friends of fellow Texan Jenn. I mean, a honey badger reference? These people are awesome.
+ I totally enjoyed Erica’s article on the value of LinkedIn. Not on it? Maybe think about it.
+ Rachel, from the blog Southern Exposure, is one of those people that always finds amazing fixer pieces, with final results that are nothing short of fantastic. Her latest is no exception!
+ Finally, wondering who else went to Alt Summit? Need a few new blogs to check out? Don’t miss Meg’s roundup of Alt-goers. Links for days, people. And if you look close in the photo, you might even see a little business card from yours truly. Enjoy!

{Image Credit: Nastia Vesna via Margaret Jacobson Pinterest}

Happy Happy Friday! Boy, what a week. Between the apartment drama and also getting geared up for what is sure to be an unbelievable few days in Salt Lake City next week, I am happy to see the weekend (and a three day one, at that!). I like to think of the last few days as just water under the bridge (hence the lovely image above, from Sarah Tucker). I’m ready for what this next week will bring!

To give you all a heads up and get you excited: next week, I have a very special set of posts coming. As you know, I’ll be attending the Altitude Design Summit from Wednesday through Friday, and can’t wait to get back and share what I learned with you (along with lots of photos, natch! After all, I’ll be hanging out with Tobe, Molly, Chelsea, Erin, Katie, Amanda, Kait, and local friends Jeanne and Melissa there). However, I figured, “Why let the Alt-goers have all the fun?” For those of you reading along who also have blogs, you’re in for a real treat: a series of posts sharing best practices, tips and tricks from lots of amazing bloggers who have been kind enough to spill their secrets! And if you don’t have a blog, consider this a rare behind the scenes look into what goes into creating your favorite sites. I think you’ll still enjoy it! And perhaps it’ll give you some inspiration to start your own blog (if you do, make sure you let me know!).

Until then, some links for your viewing pleasure:

+ Lotts and Lots shared a great DIY on what are dubbed as Prada-esque earrings. Looks pretty good given the small shopping list, don’t you think?
+ Keeping in the DIY vein, Amber had a great round up of DIYs you should check out right this second. I’m especially impressed with the fish scale wall, the IKEA desk hack (also discussed over here), and the confetti system garland !
+ Did you hear the big news from my girl Mackenzie? Get ready for Design Darling: The Boutique!! I have a feeling this is going to be fabulous.
+ Chelsea shared her gorgeous envelope liner for her wedding invitations. They’re fabric. And hand cut by her. Lovely, aren’t they?
+ I’m totally intrigued by this recipe from Jacquelyn: a beef noodle soup that uses bourbon. Something different (and delicious).
+ I always love learning about new artists, and was happy to hear about Jennifer Ament, which Sarah shared on her blog Chevrons & Stripes.
+ Don’t miss this summary of a new article in Architectural Digest which looks at the Dumfries House in Scotland, recently purchased by Prince Charles.
+ Madewell (of all blogs) shared a great how-to on making your own jam. It really is easy!

Do you have next Monday off? What are your plans for the three day weekend? Wherever you are, I hope you enjoy!

{Image Credit: Sarah Tucker Travel Photography}

Woohoo! The first Friday of 2012! I don’t know why I’m writing that as if I have huge plans this weekend and a ton of energy to match, because…yeah, I don’t. After the holidays and all the overindulgence fun of New Year’s last weekend, I am ready to have a normal weekend and get some real rest. We’ll see how that last part goes — for some reason I have not been able to sleep in at all lately.

The blog world BROUGHT IT this week. Like the days after Thanksgiving, the holidays must’ve given everyone some time off to gather inspiration, because I bookmarked a ridiculous number of posts to share this week. So, while you enjoy the first weekend of twenty twelve, here’s some goodness to look through should you find yourself with a spare moment:

+ Shameless self-promotion bit. This week, I was so happy to guest post for Erika on her blog [shop talk]. We took a look at the fabulousness that is Elie Saab. Award season is coming up, and all of Hollywood should take note: look no further than Mr. Saab.
+ Kyle from the blog Knight Moves is designing my dream bathroom/closet. You seriously won’t believe it. She’s one lucky (and talented!) gal.
+ Check out Naomi’s insane ottoman makeover for her mother. So creative and the end result isn’t like anything you’d find in store!
+ Let’s talk about how to travel in style. Think about how you would ideally like to fly…then prepared to be amazed by how it pales in comparison to this.
+ It makes me sad to see all the Christmas trees on the sidewalks of SF. Joe and I typically don’t take everything down until the end of the month, but I’m hanging on to this post from Arianna on how to store strings of lights and ornaments to make it less of an ordeal next year.
+ I adored this post from Into the Gloss featuring Iris Apfel. She has such a refreshing take on what it means to age beautifully. Fave quote: “If women put some more of the time and money they put on their heads in their heads, they’d be better off. I mean, nobody’s going to think you’re thirty-two, so what’s the point?”
+ If you’re still considering your New Year’s resolutions, read this post from one of my inspirational faves, Jess Constable, first. And read this one too, while you’re at it. That girl is so good.
+ My girl Irene shared this “WOW”-inducing before and after bedroom makeover she recently completed for a client. It looks great!
+ And finally, if you don’t read a single other post here, read this one: 30 Things to Stop Doing to Yourself. Danielle reminded me of it this week, and I’ve literally read it 5 times. I’m planning on taking some of the items that are especially relevant to me and putting them up around my office. Hopefully after seeing them everyday, they’ll sink in!

Also, I just wanted to take a minute and say hello to all the new visitors who have recently found me via Behind the Scenes ladies and guest posts elsewhere. I’m so happy to welcome you here! If you’re liking things ’round these parts, be sure to check out my Twitter and Facebook pages too. And of course, a big thank you to all of you who are seasoned vmac visitors. You make this blog such a fun place to hang out everyday. Bisous!

{Image Credit: Frederic Lagrange via Matchbook Magazine Tumblr. Frederic’s photo rep can be found here}

Happy almost New Year’s Eve!! Wow, the second to last day of the year. It sometimes still sounds weird to say 2011 (and I admittedly have been known to write 2010 on checks this year). How are we supposed to get used to 2012 in just a couple days?

What are everyone’s big plans to ring in the new year? I will be having dinner with friends, then a bit of low key bar hopping in the Marina neighborhood. Of course, I say low key, but even on NYE, the diviest of dive bars become something else. We shall see. I’ve found that after a few glasses of Champagne, I don’t much care where the night takes me, as long as good music and laughs are involved!

Here is a short list of links to keep you sated over the second long weekend. I’ll be back on Monday…see you next year!

+ I adored these notecards, found via Sarah on Etsy. These would be perfect for thank you notes!
+ If you’re not a Champagne kind of person (but, really, who ISN’T?), check out this recipe for mulled wine. Cider flavors plus red wine? Yes, please.
+ Glitter Guide shared this fantastic DIY glittery camera strap.
+ A potential hairstyle for NYE. Looks so pretty and fancy, but by all appearances, is probably very simple!
+ I should’ve shared these sooner, but I absolutely loved these handmade NYE invitations from You Are My Fave. I mean, how festive?? Could be a fun idea for a Valentine’s party.
+ Here’s a non-traditional New Year’s beverage I can get behind: the Champagne Mojito. I also wouldn’t argue if someone put a Society Sparkler in my hand. What about you?
+ Finally, as I close out my 9th year in California, I can’t help but share this video from Honestly WTF. With over 10,000 photographs taken all over Southern California, this time lapse video is just plain cool.

Happy New Year, everyone!

Happy Friday! I can’t believe it’s already time for another Friday Link Love post. The week flew for me. I’ve been quite busy working on a new little adventure (that I can’t wait to share with you all very soon), and it’s keeping me up at nights and getting me out of bed in the morning. Good times!

Joe will get home very (very) late tomorrow night after almost a week away, and I’m going to try my hardest to stay up for him. It gets lonely when you’re used to having a better half around! I’ll be spending some time tomorrow working on the aforementioned project, as well as some exciting guest posts to share with you all next week. Until then…

+ A couple great DIYs for you this week! First, Nichole from Parlour wrote about making pretty little lacquered bowls. These are so great as catch-alls on an entryway table or on a dresser. UPDATE: Just realized that the Parlour post was a re-post from Stay in the Lines! Read more closely next time, Victoria!
+ Erin has been killing it with her holiday decor and craft projects! I loved her homemade stamp, made using wood and string, which turned simple wrapping paper into something amazing.
+ Anna Jane from the blog See Jane shared a hilarious letter she wrote to Santa years ago. I wonder if my mom saved any of my letters to Santa??
+ If you’re in the mood for soup but yesterday’s potato leek recipe doesn’t strike your fancy, try Sarah’s Roasted Chestnut with Parsnips and White Port. It sounds so luxurious and decadent!
+ This video from David Lebovitz, one of my favorite food bloggers, had me pining for Paris like nobody’s business. I also happen to love sardines, so the pâté he makes in this video is right up my alley.
+ Any Mad Men fans out there? The house featured in the ‘Jet Set’ episode is up for sale. In case anyone has an extra $12M lying around.
+ Pork tenderloin is a great thing to try and make on a weeknight, as it cooks quickly and you’ll often have leftovers. Try Kerry’s recipe for Honey and Thyme Roasted Pork Loin.
+ Alaina takes us behind the scenes of the chaos that ensues when you’re styling spaces and people for photoshoots. There’s beauty in the madness!
+ Finally, three new-to-me Tumblrs that I’ve been following for a couple weeks and am really loving: A Well Traveled Woman, Cubicle Refugee, and Trendy Traveler. You’ll no doubt find photos to pin!

Bon weekend, everyone!

{Image Credit: A Gadabout}

Hi Friends! Happy Friday. What are you all up to this weekend? This one will be a busy one for me. Things kicked off last night with a blogger dinner at Mamacita followed by an event at the local Madewell store (Lauren, Natalie, Jessica, Sara, and I all had a ball). Tonight, Joe and I have a double date at Chotto, which I’ve been dying to try. Tomorrow night, it’s a Christmas party! So, life is busy, but oh so fun. I couldn’t ask for more!

Here are my favorites from the week:

+ I’m guest posting on Buckets and Bunches today while Chelsea is on her honeymoon in Paris! Go show her some love. She’s one of my roommates at Alt and is a total sweetheart.
+ I learned about BuzzFeed’s list of 45 most powerful images of the year from Sabra. And boy, are they ever. Don’t miss these (but definitely don’t expect uplifting images of puppies, either).
+ Tobe posted tons of unbelievable wallpaper images. I’m DROOLING over these and cursing the fact that I rent!
+ The minute I saw this recipe for homemade Nutella pop-tarts, it was love at first sight. Oh baby indeed.
+ Elle magazine has named five new beauty trends that we can safely assume are classics and here to stay. No More Dirty Looks shares their take on how to get the trends, naturally.
+ People are already starting to think about New Year’s Eve plans and resolutions (I know, right?). I like the idea of thinking of a “monster” to tackle in 2012.
+ Who knew that the saying “I die” might not be as au courrant as we thought?
+ Erin shared her family’s tradition of buying a Christmas tree with roots attached. Can you imagine a yard filled with these? How fun!
+ Finally, I loved this illustrated video of Diane von Furstenberg talking about traveling (and traveling light).

PS — Don’t forget to enter the NOVICA giveaway over here. You can enter up to FIVE times. What do you have to lose? That $75 gift certificate has to go to someone!

Happy weekend, everyone!

{Image Credit: Style Me Pretty, found via A Piece of Toast Pinterest}

This week was a good week for me. And judging by the sheer number of fantastic posts from fellow bloggers, it was a good week for a lot of people. That Thanksgiving break was just the thing we all needed, I guess!

I can’t put my finger on why this week was so good. Well, scratch that, I kind of can. Joe and I had a couple fun weeknight dates. Our house is decorated for the holidays and it makes me happy every time I walk in the door. I joined a new gym and actually went — twice! I got the bulk of my Christmas shopping done (thank god for online shopping), and had more than my share of peppermint tea. I’m happy. It’s just that time of year!

Below are my favorite links from the week in blogging. There were SO many good DIYs and recipes! Enjoy:

+ In case you missed it yesterday, I was beyond ecstatic to be featured in this month’s Matchbook Magazine. And also honored — this month’s bloggers are all rockstars! Alicia, Jamie, Bonnie, Blair, Taylor, and I are all sharing the best gift we’ve ever received. Check it out (we’re on page 42) if you get a minute!
+ To get you in the holiday spirit, Erika rounded up a very comprehensive list of holiday tunes. I can’t wait to download a few of these this weekend.
+ I’m in desperate need of a haircut, and thankfully, have an appointment next week. Until then, Marion’s ponytail guide saved the day more than once this week.
+ Did you guys hear about the latest H&M collaboration with Marni? Moodboard posted some preview shots of the collection, and it’s good. Like, hoping-this-doesn’t-turn-into-a-Missoni-for-Target situation good.
+ Here’s a great promotion: between now and 12/31, if you donate an old pair of jeans to Madewell, you’ll get 20% off any purchase of new denim. The old jeans will go to the International Child Art Foundation, which will use the denim for art projects. How cool is that?
+ And here come the DIYs! First, I am in love love love with Kate’s super simple pom pom tutorial. How adorable would these be on all your presents this year?
+ Kristen shared a great DIY on making your own glittery polka dot ornaments. I have determined that those stick on dots are one of the greatest inventions ever.
+ If you’re going to make any homemade jarred gifts for people, why not follow this idea for custom labels? Simplicity with a big wow factor for the recipient — can’t argue with that.
+ In food news, I loved looking at these old “gain weight now!” ads from Sabra. To compliment, she also posted a delish looking recipe for lasagna. Yes and yes.
+ Biscotti always reminds me of the holidays for some reason. I thought this recipe for key lime biscotti with white chocolate sounded so unique! And really, you can follow this basic biscotti recipe and sub in anything you’d like: chocolate, orange zest, lemon zest, butterscotch… the possibilities are endless (and delicious!).

Happy weekend, everyone!

{Image Credit: A Well-Traveled Woman}

Happy Friday! It’s the last weekend before Thanksgiving which can only mean one thing — Joe and I will be making our annual pilgrimage up north to Napa to pick up a case of our favorite holiday wine for Turkey Day. Of course, we can’t journey up to Napa without stopping for lunch somewhere delicious, too. We’ve done this for the last two years and I’m happy that it has become a family tradition that we’ll partake in for as long as we live in the Bay Area. Love it!

Here’s a bit of pre-Thanksgiving thanks for you, too: I am so grateful for all of your sweet comments and emails regarding the new design this week. Really, I can’t take a lot of credit for it. But I was so excited to unveil it, and am happy you guys like the results as well! Thank you for your kind words.

I’ll be blogging all next week (well…maybe except for Thursday and Friday), so be sure to stop in if you don’t have any big travel plans. In the meantime, here’s what I’m loving from the week in blogland:

+ I literally said, “Ooh!” when I saw Annemarie’s post on these DIY chocolate cups. How fun would it be to serve mousse in these during a holiday dinner?
+ Lara is on FIRE. Check out her first post in a short series dedicated to Thanksgiving inspired recipes. I have leftover pumpkins from Halloween and am pretty sure I’m going to make her pumpkin gnocchi!
+ I am thrilled that my blogging buddy Gabrielle was featured on La Dolce Vita this week in an encore presentation of the Dream Home series. I identify with Gab’s style so much, and her dream home very closely mirrors my own.
+ Ellie shared some great legal tips for those that are starting their own businesses.
+ The handheld phone set in this round up from A Lovely Being totally caught my eye. Besides the reduction in radiation, I hate not being able to balance my cell phone on my shoulder, and this is the perfect solution.
+ I’ve been meaning to switch out more of my household cleaning products, but it’s been hard for me to find things that work as well as conventional. This post is giving me the motivation to find some solutions (ba dum bum). Does anyone have any recs for less carcinogenic household cleaning products?
+ And this. I can’t believe it took me as long as it has to figure this out in life. I blame it on being a millenial. But it’s so, so true.

Have a great weekend, everyone! I’ll report back Monday with pictures from my weekend adventures.

And yes, you get a cat picture two Fridays in a row. They just amuse me.

{Image Credit: Middle Child Complex}

Happy Friday! I can’t believe how quickly November is passing us by. At this time in two weeks, Thanksgiving will be OVER. How crazy is that?

On my agenda for the weekend? A birthday party, a double date (complete with pizza and beer), and lots and lots of laundry. I also have promised myself I’m going to sit down a read a bunch of articles I’ve been bookmarking for the last few weeks. This week felt so frenetic, and I’m looking forward to a slower pace for the next few days.

Here are some of my favorite links of the week:

+ I’m guest posting today on Aspiring Kennedy! Lauren recently started the Friday Faces series, giving you an inside peek to bloggers’ real lives. Be sure to check it out! There are a couple more shots of my home office included.
+ New blog alert! I came across the blog Young Sophisticates this week, and so far, am really enjoying their posts. The blog is a mix of fashion images, product roundups (often with looks for less), interviews, with some interiors mixed in. Check it out!
+ Via Jacquelyn, I found this recipe for butternut squash orzo. With bacon. Sounds SO delicious.
+ How do French women achieve that effortless, feminine style? During my visit to Paris, I was in awe of how chic French women were. This post dissects the je ne sais quoi.
+ Erika featured the lovely Naomi from Design Manifest this week, and her post on Boho Glam was jaw dropping. I loved the images she curated…and the fact that she so accurately described my own aesthetic.
+ I’m sure many of you saw this, but I kept coming back to Blair’s collection of Tahoe outfits. How inspiring is this for the cold months ahead?
+ Crystalin whipped a batch of crispy peanut butter cups. YUM. I love the idea of making a bunch of these for gifts this holiday season, versus the usual bag of cookies.
+ J.Crew’s gift guide is here. See anything YOU want? (This, this and this make my list for sure)
+ Another great blog I discovered last week: A House in the Hills. This week alone, Sarah shared a great recipe for roasted Brussels sprouts with fig balsamic vinegar, and a closet reorganization (I’m eager to check out her hanger rec!).

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone.

{Image Credit: Photograph by Lukreszja, Deviant Art. Found via Victoire de Samothrace}

Today Joe and I are celebrating our 9 year dating anniversary! It’s a day I look forward to all year (well…along with birthdays, Thanksgiving and New Years Eve). Not only is it a good excuse to go out to dinner and eat whatever we want and drink lots of Champagne and vino, but that kid is my absolute best friend on Earth, and it’s fun to take an evening together and really reflect on how lucky we are to have found each other out of the billions of other people on the planet. Cheesy but true.

Since living in SF, we’ve usually celebrated at a local Italian joint in North Beach, but this year, we’re branching out and will be having a blowout dinner at Kokkari. Mediterranean food is among our FAVES, and I can’t wait to pop open a bottle of wine at the restaurant and reminisce on all the good times we’ve had over the better part of a decade.

While this weekend was originally shaping up to be busy, a few of my plans have fallen through, and to be honest, I don’t mind. I’m looking forward to some quiet time at home. I mentioned on Twitter that Joe just had Lasik surgery, so I think it’ll be nice to hole up in our apartment (especially since the weather has turned cold and rainy) and let his peepers recover. I have a couple craft and cooking projects I might tackle too — if so, I’ll be sure to share them here next week!

If it’s as wintry where you live as it is in SF, here are some links to enjoy while you stay indoors:

+ I’ve been thinking that I’d like to get a new, stately looking lamp for my desk at home. I was stoked to see Lesley post a lovely white lamp roundup with lots of amazing options. This one from the new High Street Market shop is on the list too!
+ Brittany curated a post on Swalla Studio’s original paintings, and I was pretty much in love with every single one.  It’s great discovering new artists!
+ Kyle from the fantastic interiors blog Knight Moves has been sharing her pro tips on bookcase styling. Part I focused on how to amass an enviable collection of design books; Part II has been on accenting the bookcase itself. Stay tuned because I’m pretty sure there’s more to come.
+ This image of Clairborne Swanson Frank’s ridic apartment circulated this week; the blog Kelly Market shows us how to get the look in your own home!
+ Loved this take on glitter booties. Cute outfit, no?
+ With the cold weather coming on, I can’t think of anything better than a hot bath with some of this homemade milk sugar scrub. So divine.
+ I loved everything about Lauren’s post on having a full passport. Her parents’ approach to giving their children the gift of travel is such a good one. Lucky girl.
+ Jenn remains one of my favorite bloggers out there, mostly because she’s able to keep it real. And her recipes are good, too.
+ Finally, something I definitely want to do sooner rather than later: create my own life mission/intention statement!

Bon weekend, everyone!

{Image Credit: Jose Villa}

This weekend should be a good one. Tomorrow morning, I’m waking up early to go take a workout/dance class at a local studio (I make myself sound like I’m going to a jazzercise. I’m not, promise. No promises on the sweatband and unitard though).

Joe and I have tentative plans to visit a pumpkin patch too — so many people have posted photos of picking out pumpkins, and it made me want to join in on the fun! We’ll see if we can make it happen. Sunday, we’ll be headed to the 49ers stadium for a tailgate and some football. I’m not that much of a pro-football gal, but the Cleveland Browns (Joe’s hometown team) are playing the Niners, so it’s my duty as a lady friend to show my support!

You might be wondering about the lack of Halloween plans. Sacrilegious as it is to say this, it’s probably my least favorite holiday. Costumes and spooky decor just aren’t my thing — I’d rather skip all that and go right to Thanksgiving. Don’t hate me.

What are you up to this weekend?

+ If I can get a pumpkin, I’m definitely going to reference Jacquelyn’s two recipes for roasted pumpkin seeds…
+ Two exciting store openings/unveilings this week! One, Jamie Meares store Furbish just re-opened in a much larger space  (locals, go check it out!). And Kelly, who curates probably my all time favorite Etsy shop, just announced a new online store as well. So far, her offerings are looking really good.
+ I loved the idea of these slate gift tags from Kate. How pretty!
+ The undershave. Could you do it? No way I am brave enough.
+ Did you guys see Erika’s home accessory picks on Made by Girl? I wanted every single one of them. Especially that horn vase from Jayson home. So unique and gorgeous.
+ Another great installment in the Biz Ladies series. Lots of us dream about leaving our day jobs. But when is the right time?
+ While I was on vacation I read this article in NY Mag about millenials. Some interesting ideas. What do you think?
+ It’s definitely apple season, and this recipe for chicken and apples in honey mustard sauce sounded like a perfect autumn weeknight meal.
+ My friend Meredith sent me to another great food blog this week — Eat.Live.Run. Check it out!

And, around these parts…

+ I was honored to guest post on three different blogs this week! Be sure to check out my posts on Stripes & Sequins, So Much to Smile About, and L.A. in the Bay.
+ Today is the LAST day you can enter to win a candle from Aquiesse. I’m taking entries until 5pm Pacific time. Go here to enter. It’s really easy!

Happy Weekend!

{Image Credit: Note to Self}

Just a quick note to say I hope everyone had a great week! Friday Link Love will be back next week. Until Monday…

{Image Credit: Pinterest}

I’m SO happy it’s Friday. Today I’ve got the big meet up with Irene. Later this weekend, we’re headed on a road trip to Santa Barbara, Palm Springs and LA. Nothing on the agenda except exploring, eating, and enjoying the pretty weather. It’s going to be great! Joe and I celebrate our 9th dating anniversary in a couple weeks, and this is the first time we’ve ever done a trip to (sort of) coincide. I’m using it as an excuse to eat whatever I want and order an extra glass of champagne.

Next week, I have a series of Santa Barbara/Palm Springs themed posts lined up for you. I’ll be in and out on Twitter too, hopefully sharing some quick pics of our travels. We’ll see what kind of trouble I can get into.

On that note, I’ve already gotten several good SB recommendations, but if you have any more for there or Palm Springs, please share them in the comments!

Here are some links for your weekend. Lots of great interiors posts this week!

+ Ally blows me away again with another great round up of art walls. You should check out all of her gallery posts. So much inspiration! And take a look at her hotel picks posts while you’re at it.
+ Standing at work all day. I’m actually kind of behind this! I have way more aches and pains now than when I worked in retail…
+ If you lived in a 570 sq ft apartment, could you make it look as amazing as this?
+ When tufting goes horribly, terribly wrong. Really, Restoration Hardware. What were you thinking?
+ New blogger lingo: are you guilty of pinter judgement? I…am. There, I said it.
+ Lara shared a delicious looking recipe for curried chicken salad. Perfect for lunch this fall!
+ I tweeted about it too, but if you haven’t done so, be sure to check out the interiors blog Savvy Home. Gabrielle’s curated a BEAUTIFUL site, often with pictures I’ve never come across before. It’s truly a gem.
+ I’m happy to know that I’m not the only one scared to try speaking French while in Paris…
+ Murray’s cheese shop. Bottom line: I wanna go!
+ Jess shares her secrets to marketing and selling online. A must read for anyone getting started with an online business.
+ The Bloggess makes me laugh. This picture did too.
+ My friend Meredith shared this hilarious article with me a few days ago: Mindy Kaling on a guide to women in chick flicks. I know every single one of these characters. You?

Have a great weekend, all!

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October 7. One week from the month, gone. Suddenly, those Thanksgiving decorations gracing all the local stores don’t seem so ridiculous. Christmas ones? Still not okay.

What are your plans for the next few days? This weekend, it’s Fleet Week in San Francisco, which means the Blue Angels are in town performing their air show over the city on both Saturday and Sunday. After a rainy week, I’m looking forward to attending a house party (taking place on a roof, natch) and enjoying some forecasted sunshine. Then, next week, a few exciting things are in the works in la vida de vmac… 1) a meet up with a fellow blogger (you’ll have to stay tuned to see who) and 2) it’s my last week of work before a week long road trip Joe and I have planned! Will share more about both very soon.

Until then, links:

+ I immediately pinned these Save the Dates shared by Tamra from Walks with Bella. Are these not the most ingenious things you’ve ever seen?
+ Some may-jah, may-jah shoe envy happening in this post from Luella & June. Which pair would you want to take home? I vote for the kelly green sandals or the crazy strappy ones in the third pic!
+ As of tonight, I’ll be easing back into ‘normal’ foods. While I don’t think I can take down a bowl of pasta anytime soon, this recipe for orechiette carbonara gave me pause…
+ John from J.Crew shared photos from his travels to the south of France. John and I are BFF, obvi.
+ Vegetarians, this one is NOT for you. I loved learning more about the artisanal butchers at Victor Churchill in Sydney, Australia
+ Melissa posted on Enigma Surfaces for the home. Aren’t these beautiful? And so much you could do with them!
+ This video of Tank the dog being caught in the act cracked me up. It’s funny, I grew up with cats, and still love them, but I’m definitely a fan of dogs now too! They’re just so cute.
+ Finally, I loved this graphic shared by Sarah. It’s a brief essay written by an 85 year old women, discussing what she’d do if she could live life over again. Something to remember for sure. Let loose. In the end, it’ll all be okay.

P.S. — Today’s the. last. day you can enter to win the print of your choosing from the I Am Project shop. Go here to enter. It’s easy!

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Hallelujah! It’s Friday. This was one of those week’s that started out seeming like it would go by quickly, but really dragged towards the end. Thank goodness the weekend is here! Tonight, I’m headed over to a friend’s house for a casual dinner party. She’s making two types of lasagna and breaking out LOTS of wine she’s been saving — yum!

Tomorrow will be the first Saturday in quite a while that Joe and I will be together and have no big plans on the agenda. I can’t WAIT to sleep in, get coffee, squeeze in some time at Blog Brunch, then spend the rest of the morning and afternoon watching movies and catching up. It might be time to break out the Dutch oven and braise something delicious, too!

This week had no shortage of fantastic links. Be sure to check these out if you’re having a lazy Saturday (or Sunday) like me:

+ Remember those adorable language videos that circulated a few months ago? Through someone I follow on Pinterest, I discovered this post dissecting all the different fonts used in the Paris video. Love stuff like this! And if you haven’t checked this out before, don’t miss it. Nothing puts a smile on my face like these videos.
+ It’s taking the blog world by storm! This week, Danielle, Alexis and Viviana all shared their guilty pleasures. Jenn, you really hit it out of the park with this idea.
+ Something for me to obsess over for the next few years until I own my own home: a round-up of the most amazing, top of the line ranges a cook could ever ask for.
+ One of my favorite days in France last summer was our day trip to Versailles. I was happy to learn about this book set through this post on Habitually Chic. Totally going on my wish list!
+ On to delicious things I want to make this weekend: Sara shared this recipe for homemade carnitas, and considering that they’re one of Joe’s favorite foods and this sounds like it would smell delicious, I think I just may have found my Saturday night winner.
+ Another great recipe and perfect for anyone throwing a party this weekend: Apple Cranberry Sage Bites. How yummy (and autumnal!) do these look?
+ Kind of wish my hair was just a liiiiitle bit shorter, so I could try this easy looking low chignon.
+ Thinking of launching a business? (I know lots of you are!) Design*Sponge put together this super helpful business launching 101 post. And if you haven’t already, be sure to follow their biz ladies series. It’s a great resource.
+ And finally, my absolute favorite post of the week, maybe of the month. A reminder that nothing is ever perfect. But that the end result can end up being just as good as (and maybe even better than) whatever perfection you had imagined. Thanks, Nikki!

Have a lovely weekend and (oh my gosh how can it be) Happy October!!

{Image Credit: Jose Villa}

This week, there was so much inspiration to be had in the blogosphere. It never ceases to amaze me how creative, resourceful and talented people are. Here are some of my favorite links:

+ Jacquelyn shares a recipe for homemade granola bars. Perfect for the mid-afternoon snack (and way better for you than peanut M&Ms).
+ Have a quiet weekend planned? Check out these awesome DIY projects Erika shared. Whether you’re a novice (me) or a pro, there’s an idea for everyone.
+ I’m seriously considering looking into a vacation at Dolphin Island, as featured on Kim’s blog. How amazing does this look? Wouldn’t this be the perfect getaway for you and 7 of your favorite friends?
+ Is anyone going to watch that new Rachel Bilson show, Hart of Dixie? Check out a behind the scenes look on how costumes are selected for the show.
+ Via Daniella Marie, I found this delightful looking rose geranium sea salt scrub. So easy to make, and perfect for a spa night at home.
+ Did you know Versace is doing a collaboration with H&M? Yeah, me either! Hopefully they learned some good lessons after the Missoni/Target mess. Will you be lining up to score some pieces?
+ You might’ve seen this amazing redesign of the Hotel Yountville on Elements of Style a couple weeks ago, from designer Lisa Holt. Yesterday, Lisa’s folks let me know that she is auctioning off an outdoor space makeover on behalf of the Plastic Pollution Coalition, an alliance working together to stop plastic pollution and its toxic impacts on humans, animals and the environment. New outdoor space at your house + charity donation = sweet deal.
+ The ladies behind Blog Brunch tweeted out this great list of Photoshop actions. If you’re currently using Photoshop for photo editing, be sure to check these out — there are some good ones!
+ Finally, I think I’ve been convinced to go to Alt Design Summit. Like 85-90% convinced. Are any of you planning on attending? Be sure to let me know!

Hope you have a wonderful weekend. See you on Monday!

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I don’t know about you, but I’m SO glad the weekend is here. This was my first week back at work after visiting Texas — don’t you find that the weeks back at work after time away feel the longest? It also felt like a crazy week in the blogosphere, too. Between the Missoni for Target bonanza (did NOT partake) and Fashion Week mania (obviously partook), I’ll be glad when the pace feels a bit less frenetic online next week. Who’s with me?

This weekend Joe will be away on a work trip, and I’m secretly looking forward to doing laundry, cleaning the house, and having uninterrupted time to myself. If you find yourself in a similar situation, here are some links to tide you over:

+ It’s probably no secret that Paris is pretty much my favorite city ever. This photo essay from Sarah Tucker had me longing for it once again. (Tip: Did you know you can buy her gorgeous travel photography on Etsy?)
+ Any Real Housewives of New York fans out there? People is saying Jill, Alex and Kelly are OUT for the next season. Discuss.
+ Alex from Things That Sparkle did her own version of the guilty pleasures post, as did Praveen from RNL Musings. Go show them both some love! (In case you missed it, this is mine).
+ I found this article on women’s behavior in the workplace (specifically regarding swearing) to be pretty interesting. Communication dynamics between genders (and especially in professional environments) are so fascinating. What do you think?
+ Three (count ‘em three) accounts of what it was like to do battle for Missoni for Target merch. Hide yo kids, hide yo wife, and hide yo husband.
+ I’m intrigued by Sabra’s recipe for banana muffins made with Greek yogurt. If I can find some time this weekend, I might give them a try!
+ I laughed for like half an hour over this Twitter feed (also discovered via Alex!). I’m pretty sure I’ve said 90% of the things listed here. Joe confirmed this too.
+ Shameless plug: if you missed them, check out two guest posts I did this week, here and here.
+ And, as this was a very pop culture filled link list, why not go for broke and offer one more? I sincerely hope you’re following Suri’s Burn Book. If you love celebrities and pop culture, it’s a must.

Happy weekend, everyone!

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Though it’s been great being able to spend time with family this past week, I’m so glad to be heading home later today. Joe is already back in SF and is planning our usual Friday night date. It’ll be the perfect thing to help me settle back into SF before the work week starts in a couple more days.

Here are some links for your weekend:

+ David Lebovitz hits up Twitter HQ. I wish my office had a cereal dispensing station like theirs!
+ If we all pool our resources, maybe we can buy Lauren Conrad’s gorgeous LA home. You know, the one from The Hills. It could be blogger central! Who’s with me?
+ I was sent this video on 100 years of style by a friend, and I’ve also seen it circulating. It’s cute. Don’t miss it.
+ A great new Tumblr for your daily perusal: Note to Self. It’s the Tumblr of an equally adorable blog. Fantastic photo finds, no?
+ Major eye candy alert. Schumacher has debuted their new collection of fabrics and wallcoverings. Considering I’m still on the hunt for a fabric for those custom pillows, this is good and bad. Good because the options are gorgeous, bad because they’ll probably cost an arm and a leg and a first born.
+ Some very inspiring (and true!) words from the husband of one of my favorite bloggers.
+ A sneak peek on how Massucco Warner Miller interior design organizes fabric and wallpaper samples.
+ New blog I like that I think you’ll like too: The Fresh Exchange. Great post ideas, terrific graphics, all around awesomeness.
+ Everybody knows Jenna, but I was so thrilled to see this interview with J.Crew’s head women’s designer, Marissa Webb, on Harper’s Bazaar. I think she’s pretty fabulous too!
+ And finally: when I think about the fact that it’s been 10 years since 9.11 happened, I truly and honestly can’t believe it. CNN actually wrote a comprehensive piece (for once) about the World Trade Center memorial, which will open this weekend.Take a minute to reflect on where you were when you heard the news. It’s amazing, all that has happened between then and now.

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