Stripes and Scallops

Monday, Monday...

As bummed as I am that today is Monday again, I know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel in the form of a three day weekend. Also I've been super proud of myself because I haven't done any shopping in a few weeks (pats myself on the back). I planned on saving my money so that come Labor Day weekend when all the major sales begin, I can invest in a few fall items. Much to my dismay, it doesn't make sense to buy any more summer clothes and instead focus on the months ahead, even though I'm remaining positive that we will have an Indian summer filled with warm weather through October. 

I wore this outfit this past weekend to my cousin Abigail's birthday party. We were spending plenty of time outside in the beautiful weather and this was the perfect combination of comfortable but stylish. I'm a huge fan of mixing and matching patterns and when I was getting ready for the party I had originally planned to wear plain navy shorts when at the last minute I decided to switch it up and wear my favorite scalloped shorts that I got in Francesca's.

Top // Shorts // Sunnies
Bag // Sandals Steve Madden, old
Necklace Kate Spade, old // Bracelet J Crew Factory, old

xoxo

Rainbow Pops and Crossbodys

Happy Hump Day!

So if I had to tell you what my two most worn summer pieces (besides a bathing suit) has been this summer, it would be this tank and crossbody bag. If you're looking for a decent sized crossbody bag that is classic and affordable, then I couldn't recommend this bag more. I originally brought the brown bag to take with me to Chicago and got so much use out of it that I just ordered it in black as well! Currently, the bag is $32 at Nordstrom (plus free shipping everyday) and I'm so glad I invested in it because I've brought it with me everywhere. As for the popsicle shirt, I got it on the clearance rack at Lord and Taylor (still available at Nordstrom online). I loved the fun graphic on the front and it's a great tank to throw over my bathing suit on the way to the pool, which as you know is my favorite weekend activity.

Anyway, last night I got dinner with friends at the new Druthers Brewing Company in Albany. If you're in the 518 area, I definitely recommend checking out their new location. For those of you who are beer fans, they brew plenty of options in house that pack the plenty of flavor and their food menu is just as amazing. They specialize in macaroni and cheese in a variety of flavors, but they also have plenty of other menu options including burgers, sandwiches and wood fire pizza. It's definitely a great gathering for friends with an awesome atmosphere. 

Rainbow Pop Tank // Shorts // Sunglasses

Ring // Bangles, old

Crossbody Bag // Flip Flops

xoxo

New Recipe: Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry

Happy Tasty Tuesday!

I am back on my recipe game after a little hiatus and I've got some awesome recipes lined up for you guys in the upcoming weeks that pack a punch of flavor. This chicken stir fry was super easy to make and did not take long to prepare, which was great because I made it last Monday after work. It definitely makes enough for leftovers for work the next day too!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb of boneless chicken stripes (nice and thin so they cook quickly!)
• 1/4 cup all purpose flour
• 1 cup low sodium chicken stock
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pkg of frozen stir fry veggies (mine had carrots, mushrooms and snap peas in it)
• 1 pkg of frozen broccoli florets
• 1/2 small white onion, chopped

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl combine chicken strips and flour until strips are evenly coated, remove chicken and set aside bowl with remaining flour.
2. In the bowl with leftover flour, add chicken stock, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil and garlic. Stir until completely combined.
3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil and add chicken strips. Cook on medium low heat and cook until browned (I liked to get mine nice and crispy). 
4. While chicken is cooking, put frozen vegetables in microwave and cook to package directions. Once vegetables are cooked, drain water from vegetables and add them to the skillet along with the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil. Stir for 2-3 minutes until chicken and veggies are completely combined.
5. Pour chicken stock mixture into skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then let simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the juices to soak into the chicken and vegetables.
6. Serve and enjoy!

xoxo

Zebra Stripes

Happy Monday!

I was so excited when my dress from the Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale arrived on Saturday, especially when they said that it could take up to three weeks for delivery. This means I get the chance to wear it before Labor Day when it gets packed away for another year. First let me say I am obsessed with this pattern and bright colors. I haven't bought anything from Lilly in two years, mainly because it's out of my price range with the exception of the semi annual sale they have every year. I love their summery patterns but I'm not about to pay $200 for a dress, it's just not my style. However, I did jump at the opportunity to get this dress on super clearance and I'm so glad I did. 

I always get nervous shopping the After Party sale, mainly because everything is final sale and I would be crushed if my package arrived and it didn't fit, however I strongly recommend reading the reviews because they often give great advice as to what size to order. In my case the reviews said to order one size up because the dress runs small and thank god I did, because after sizing up the dress fits like a glove. This will officially be my last summer purchase, next stop... new fall arrivals!

Dress, Lilly Pulitzer // Sandals Steve Madden, old

Clutch Michael Kors Outlet // Sunglasses

Ring // Gold Bangle // Necklace Ann Taylor, old

Did you pick anything up at the After Party sale?

xoxo

Weekend Reads

Summer days drifting away...

Its crazy to think that we're only two weeks away from Labor Day weekend. The thought of summer coming to a close is not a thought I want to entertain right now and I'm hoping that an Indian summer  is upon us. All of the stores are filled with fall arrivals and I can't bear to think about putting on a sweater right now. So I will remain blissfully ignorant about the passing days and will continue to spend as much time by the pool as possible! Check out these weekend links while you're hanging out this weekend.

Weekend Reads:

• Disclaimer: I've already watched this 11 minute video three times since discovering it. A mommy bear and her 5 cubs made their way into a family pool and had a pool party of their own, much to the dismay of the little girl watching in horror as all the baby cubs pop all her pool floats, too cute! 
• If you're a foodie like me with a sense of wanderlust you'll enjoy this article about the best cities to visit if you're a food lover.
• This past week went to the Loft to check out their dress pants for work and was able to pick up two pairs during their pant sale. I loved these navy skinny ankle pant and these grey slouch pants and I plan on picking up a few more pairs before fall arrives.
• When I went and saw Vacation last Wednesday I was able to check out the trailer for Amy Poehler and Tina Fey's new movie 'Sisters' and it looks Ah-ma-zing! 
• JK Rowling weighed in this week on the theory about the 3 brothers this week.
• Obsessed with this skull pendant necklace from Banana Republic, simple but with a slight edge.

What are you up to this weekend?

xoxo

Friday Four

TGIF!

We finally made it! 

Some weeks fly by but others seem to take forever to end, this was one of those weeks. Looking forward to getting together with friends tonight and hopefully soaking up the sun this weekend. In the meantime, here are five things I'm obsessing over this week.

What I'm wanderlusting over...

D23 Expo on Disney World

I have been following the 2015 D23 Expo which is bi-annual convention held to discuss the up and coming events in the world of Disney. This means trailers for upcoming movies as well as news concerning the parks. The new additions coming to Walt Disney World, including Toy Story Land, Star Wars World and Pandora look absolutely amazing and have me begging to plan a trip for next year. 

What I'm watching...

Vacation Movie

I went and saw Vacation on Wednesday, a movie loosely based on the original Chevy Chase comedy and it by far surpassed my expectations. I am a huge fan of the old Griswold movies and this brings back that old theme where son Rusty is now a grown adult and wants to relive his childhood and take his family to Walley World. I wasn't sure how good the movie would be, but I was laughing out loud throughout the film, definitely worth the price of a ticket.

What I'm buying...

Lilly After Party Sale

I haven't shopped the Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale in a few years but I decided to see what they had to offer this time around and I wasn't disappointed. I did not sign into the sale until almost 7pm the first night but I was surprised at how much was still available by then. I was able to grab this pretty zebra print dress on super clearance. I'm obsessed with the bright colors and fun pattern and this will officially be my last summer purchase before I start focusing on fall arrivals.

What I'm reading...

The Rumor

I was finally able to start The Rumor by Elin Hilderbrand this week and so far it has been a great summer read. This book tells the story of two best friends and their families and how the gossip surrounding their summer living in Nantucket almost destroys them. Definitely a great end of summer read that makes me want to take a trip to Nantucket.

What are you loving this week?

xoxo

Workwear Wednesday

Happy Hump Day!

Now that it's mid-August, I start to get a little bored with my summer work wardrobe. However, I need to make this very clear I am in no rush for summer to end. I'm already starting to see all these fall clothes out in the stores and it makes me panic. I know everyone loves fall, but when fall arrives winter is around the corner so I will take the sunshine any day of the week. Anyway, whenever I'm feeling that, "I have nothing to wear" moment when I'm getting ready for work I always have a few go-to dresses that I always pull out of my closet and this green and navy number is one of them. Kelly green and navy have always been one of my favorite color combos and the gold zippers on the pockets add that extra detail and makes the dress a stand out. 

Dress Michael Kors, old // Sandals Steve Madden, old

Similar crossbody options here // Necklace J Crew Factory, old

Sunglasses Kate Spade Outlet (similar option here)

xoxo

New Recipe: Jalapeño Poppers

Happy Tasty Tuesday!

I can't get enough of jalapeños and spicy food. I've always been the girl who gets her chicken wings extra hot and puts red pepper flakes in her pasta so when I came across this jalapeño popper recipe, I knew I would love it. They're definitely a crowd pleaser if you're bringing a snack to a friends house.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounce of cream cheese softened
• 1 block of cheddar cheese, grated
• 12 ounces of jalapeño peppers
• 1 cup skim milk
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1 tbsp bacon bits

Directions:

1. Cut jalapeño peppers in half and set aside seeds.
2. In a medium bowl combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits and seeds of 3 jalapeños (the more you add the spicier they are).
3. Spoon cream cheese mixture into jalapeños.
4. In two separate bowls, place milk and peppers. Dip the stuffed jalapeños into the milk and then into the flour making sure they are completely coated.
5. Let jalapeños sit for about 10 minutes, then dip them in milk again and roll them through the breadcrumbs and let them dry (repeat this step until entire jalapeño surface is covered in breadcrumbs).
6. Place jalapeños on a cookie sheet and bake them for 30 minutes on 350 degrees or until crispy. Finally, turn off oven and turn on broiler and broil for 2-3 minutes.
7. Enjoy!

xoxo

Peachy's Got It

Hi.

Remember me? 

My apologies for the lack of posts last week but I could not pull it together. After getting back from Chicago late Monday night I was so exhausted. The entire weekend was such a whirlwind of fun, but whenever I'm with that group of friends I feel like it takes me an entire week to recover from the shenanigans. The rest of the week I was super busy at work and either had stuff to do at night or I was in bed at 7pm, so long story short blogging took a major backseat. I barely even touched my personal computer last week and I'm just now catching up on emails and getting organized. But, today is a new day and I'm looking forward to getting back on the blogging track this week.

This tunic dress that I picked up at Macy's a few weeks ago is currently on clearance, so it's a great time to pick up a lightweight dress to get you through the last remaining weeks of summer. After browsing my closet I realize that I tend to gravitate towards blues and greens but I don't have a lot of pinks or corals so this dress is a step in the right direction when it comes to mixing things up. The embroidered top allows me to go light on the jewelry. This dress is perfect for a day at the beach or strolling the boardwalk.

Dress // Sandals

Sunglasses Kate Spade (similar option here)

Clutch Kate Spade, old // Jewelry Ann Taylor, old

xoxo

Chicago Recap

Well hello there.

It seems like whenever I go on vacation it takes me awhile to get back on track when it comes to writing blog posts, so my apologies. I had so much fun this past weekend in Chicago and I always slip into a depression the second I have to leave all my friends and go back to the real world. 

I can officially check Market Days off my list of things to experience. The entire weekend was a whirlwind of dancing, drinking and friends (with plenty of eating and beach visits in between). I don't get to see my cousins or Chicago friends very often but when I do, it picks up right where we left off. For those of you who live in Chicago, I'm jealous because there is so much fun stuff to do there and it seems like every weekend there is something fun happening around the city, not to mention you have access to a beach! I'm still recovering from my adventures this weekend and I'll probably be in bed at 7PM every day this week but it was worth it. In the meantime, check out a few photos from my travels.

xoxo

Weekend Reads

Happy Saturday!

Today I'll be celebrating Market Days with my cousins and friends in Chicago. Market Days is a giant street festival with vendors, music and plenty of drinks, it's going to be a fun weekend!

Weekend Links:

• I bought this double stud crossbody bag last week at Nordstrom, it's going to be perfect for wandering around Chicago. It's lightweight and is large enough to hold my glasses and wallet.
•  Check out this amazing Taylor Swift/Harry Potter mashup. 
• I'll be navigating the subway for the first time completely on my own, wish me luck! The Everygirl gives us the top 6 travel apps that makes everything from packing to navigating easier.
• The J Crew Quilted Puffer Vest is back in stock and it's available at J Crew Factory for much cheaper than the non-factory store.
• I'm a sucker for cute animal stories and this list of 10 Heartwarming Cat & Dog Heroes is no exception. How cute are those Saint Bernard dogs?!
• Is anyone else watching the train wreck Bachelor in Paradise? Well if you're interested Reality Steve posted his episode by episode spoilers for the season.
• Since I'll be attending a street festival all weekend, here are 11 great festival finds under $90.
• Loved this article on How to Follow Up After a Job Interview, there was plenty that I didn't know about and these tips will help leave your potential co-workers with a lasting impression on you (in a good way!).

What are you up to this weekend?

xoxo

What's in my Luggage: Chicago Edition

Today is the day!

I have to work until 3:00 today (boo) and then I'm going to be boarding a plane and heading to Chicago. Very excited to see my cousin and friends and spend the next 5 days in the city. Above is a sneak peek of what I decided to include in my packing last night. I wanted a mixture of day wear for the outdoor street festival and night wear for when we go out to the bars at night. Plus tomorrow we're heading to Lake Michigan for the day so I had to be sure to pack a bikini as well. 

Ring // Pink Mini // Headband // Rainbow Pop Tank // Sunglasses // Cropped Shell

Sleeveless Shirtdress // Hot Pink Necklace // Tropical Bikini Top // Converse

xoxo

Laces Out

Guys.

I leave for Chicago tomorrow! These next two days better fly by at work. I have so much packing to do tonight because of course I waited to the last minute before I decide to put everything together. The weekend in Chicago they're having a huge 'Market Days' street festival so I'll be spending plenty of time outside, checking out the vendors and listening to the bands so I'll have to pack some "street festival fashion"... any suggestions on what I should be sure to bring? Make sure you leave your suggestions in the comments!

The outfit I'm wearing today is typical weekend wear for me. These white shorts that I picked up from the Gap at the beginning of summer have become a summer essential for me. They're super comfortable, flattering and they show off my tan, haha. I've already gotten a lot of use out of this lace up tee shirt as well. Last week, I wore it to work tucked into a cream pencil skirt. The laces on the side adds an extra fun detail to an otherwise classic tee shirt. 

Lace Up Tee // Shorts // Sunglasses

Sandals Vince Camuto, old (similar style here)

Bow Bangle // Clutch Kate Spade, old // Ring

Necklace, Macys (old)

xoxo