Hi friends—how’s everyone doing? It feels like it’s been a minute since we’ve caught up. The past couple of weeks have been a blur in the best way, and Keith and I just got back from a quick but memorable trip to California.
The main reason for heading west was the Creative Arts Emmys, where Keith was nominated for his work on 100 Foot Wave (sound mixing—so impressive). Sadly, he didn’t bring home a statue this time, but being nominated alone is such an accomplishment. To make the most of it, we decided to tack on a couple of days in Laguna Beach before the LA whirlwind, and it turned out to be the perfect decision.
A Few Days in Laguna
We stayed at the Montage Laguna Beach, and let me tell you—it was pure magic. Ocean views as far as the eye can see, that dreamy beachfront energy, and food that was every bit as good as the setting. If you ever have the chance to stay there, I can’t recommend it enough.
The slower pace was exactly what Keith needed, especially since he’s been clocking 12-hour workdays lately. Having a chance to breathe before diving into LA’s nonstop energy made the whole trip feel balanced instead of overwhelming.
For the awards, I wore a dress that isn’t necessarily everyone’s cup of tea, but I loved it. The Creative Arts Emmys are more relaxed than the Primetime ceremony, which gave me the freedom to wear something that felt fully “me.” Sometimes that’s the best kind of fashion—unapologetically personal.
This Week’s Favorites & Finds
Now onto some links, ideas, and obsessions from the past week or so.
- A Book I’m Loving: I started reading a book that’s structured so you only take in a page a day. It’s perfect for me—short, thought-provoking, and manageable for someone who has trouble focusing for long stretches. I think I may have discovered it on TikTok, but wherever it came from, it’s become a daily ritual.
- Affordable Jewelry Find: I’ve been seeing puffy heart earrings all over the place from different designers, but most come with a hefty price tag. Enter: this $26 Madewell version, which looks just as chic without the splurge.
- Wardrobe Staples: One of my favorite white tees is finally back in stock (I take a medium). A simple piece, but it’s the backbone of so many outfits.
- Motherhood News: Scientists recently uncovered a major breakthrough about the root cause of morning sickness. Fascinating, and hopefully a step toward more effective solutions.
- Blog Love: Alicia’s Five Things posts are always a highlight for me—she has such an eye for beautiful, practical finds.
- Best Buys of 2023: In case you missed it, I rounded up my top purchases from last year. Spoiler: one of them is a mug that keeps my coffee hot for hours. It’s in front of me as I type this, and honestly, it brings me joy every morning.
Vacation Daydreaming
Maybe it’s the post-travel glow or maybe it’s just February blues, but I am so ready for another tropical escape. I put together a vacation edit with some fun pieces, and I’ve also been bookmarking lists like 14 vacations for pure relaxation. One can never have too much inspiration when it comes to dreaming about turquoise water and sandy toes.
While I wait, I’ve been leaning into cozy comforts at home—like working my way through 35 winter recipe ideas that make even the gloomiest days feel a little brighter.
Style Picks
- Under $100 Leather Mules: Chic, simple, and versatile enough to wear now and into spring.
- Chunky New Balance Sneakers: Back in stock (true to size!) and perfect for running around the city.
- A New Dress: I ordered one recently (in a medium) that I plan to pair with tall black boots—an easy transitional outfit formula.
- Beloved Basics: Sometimes it’s not about reinventing the wheel, but finding the right staples that make getting dressed feel effortless.
Lifestyle & City Notes
- NYC Guides: Adding a few hotel bars to my must-visit list, plus nodding along to this roundup of the 20 best pizza spots in the city. Hard to argue with most of those choices.
- Home Inspiration: I came across a stunning Greenwich Village apartment tour—floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and all. It’s giving me ideas.
- Relationship Reads: An article on how to spot a frenemy (and, more importantly, how to be a true friend) has been lingering in my mind. Food for thought.
- Cultural Highlights: Instagram shared its most-loved New Yorker cartoons of the year, which was a delightful scroll.
Looking Ahead
On Monday, I’m off again—this time on a trip with Estée Lauder. The opportunity came up unexpectedly, and I couldn’t resist. Even more exciting: we’ll be traveling to one of the five Blue Zones in the world. If you’re not familiar, Blue Zones are regions where people live significantly longer, healthier lives, and I’m eager to experience the culture firsthand.
That’s the latest from me—a little California sunshine, some cozy winter comforts, and a big adventure on the horizon. Wishing you all a wonderful weekend and week ahead!
