j.crew dresses america

image source: J.Crew

I think it's almost a prerequisite that you must be a J.Crew shopper in order to also be a blogger. Most every blog I read will post something J.Crew related at least once a week! For a company that doesn't advertise and only relies on their catalog for sales, they're doing pretty well. That, and, like I mentioned, every blogger bows down to them.

If you're interested in learning more about the retailer, check out J.Crew and the Man Who Dressed America tonight on CNBC. I already have it scheduled for my DVR.

simple + stylish living

image source: Lonny May/Jun 2011 - Interior Design by Fernandez & True Interiors

I'm liking this space, like really liking this space. It seems possible, from the floor plan to the decor. My favorite things about it: the greyish-beige wall color, the molding, the furniture arrangement, the bar (which makes it seem like the kitchen is right there - yes to open floor plans), the faux deer, the pop of color in the art and lastly, the jewel of the room, the chandelier. Unfortunately, with the temps as high as they get in Texas (102 right now!) I just don't know how I'm gonna make a chandelier happen in my living space. A ceiling fan is an absolute must here.

tweed dweeb

image source: the chloe conspiracy

I like everything about these shorts. The color, the length, the tweed! And I like everything about Chloe's style. She makes everything work and she has impeccable taste. How do I know? Besides posting outfit posts, she's also kind enough to post a daily list of deals, as well as offering her suggestions (with direct links) on what she would buy from the retailer and her picks are always the best.

Example: Thanks to her, I found these lovely pair of shorts at Express

4 1/2" NOTCH BACK COTTON SATEEN SHORTS

4 1/2" PIPED WAISTBAND SHORTS

They also come in safer, neutral colors, but what I love about these (besides the color) is the length. I wouldn't have to feel like quite the street walker, yet I would also not feel like I borrowed a pair from my mom.

So thank you, Chloe. Keep your deals of the day coming, along with those great suggestions.

fiesta fun

Sorry, I've been a bit silent the last week, but I was in the middle of prepping for my daughter's birthday party. Here are just a few of the snapshots taken at our little Cinco de Mayo birthday bash.

the invitation mail out

the invitation, inspired by this birthday greeting I spotted.

the fiesta buffet

the icing on the cupcakes I made was literally sliding off, due to the extreme heat from the five minute ride from the house to the party.

cascarones!

me and my little miss cinco de mayo

and finally me taking one last picture with the pinata before it was busted to pieces.

It was such a windy day, which made hanging all the banners and fringe streamers just impossible! But that's West Texas for you and we made due, as we always do. It was still a fun time and the breeze actually kept us cool.

How did yall celebrate Cinco de Mayo?