Friday, I'm in Love, v.17 {Guest Blogger}

I was so excited when Mackenzie Horan, Design Darling herself, agreed to share with us a few of her loves. She has impeccable taste and I cannot wait to peruse her online boutique, launching this March! She also contributed to this month's anniversary issue of Matchbook Magazine. Mackenzie is a design/style tour de force and I'm so honored to have her over for a visit. Without further ado...

It's Friday and Mackenzie's in love with...

Hi there! I'm Mackenzie from Design Darling and I'm excited to be sharing a few of my favorites on Natalie's blog today.

Kendra Scott earrings / Tibi dress

Diptyque candle / NARS lipstick

Cambridge Satchel Co. bag

My favorite colors are hot pink and navy blue so I'm coveting a few new pretties in my preferred palette! Isn't that bag to die for? Thanks so much for having me, Natalie!

Friday, I'm in Love, v.16 {Guest Blogger}

Today's loves come from Emily over at The Best of This Life. Her elegant lifestyle and food blog is chock full of delicious gluten-free recipes, ideas for entertaining, lovely inspiration and stories from her own life. Her posts are heartfelt and uplifting, and she's got a tremendous eye for design and layout. Basically, it's the bloggy equivalent of a breath of fresh air. (Her "Essentials" posts are some of my faves.) I hope y'all enjoy her loves; I know I did!

Thank you Natalie for having me on your lovely blog today. I'm honored to be here!

It's Friday and Emily's in love with...

Bright colors, writing love letters, and classic jewelery.

This week has been rather snowy in Ottawa, Canada and there's nothing like pops of juicy colors against a white backdrop to make a girl happy and away from the Winter-blahs. Thank goodness Spring is just around the corner, bringing with it stunning brights and beautiful pastels.

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I'm totally in love with the colorblocking genius from Madewell's Spring 2012 Look Book. Because I'm still wearing a 3/4 length down jacket, knee high fur lined boots and a wool mittens, I'll be waiting a few more months to sport these stylish looks.

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What that doesn't mean, is that I'll be waiting to start the color splashing; Chanel's Spring nail polish comes in the freshest hues and I'm very smitten about April, May, and June, which I'll be wearing in February. Aren't they pretty?

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When I spot a timeless piece of jewelry that I feel I will love forever, I get genuinely excited! I do enjoy playing around with statement pieces, fun accessories and trends, but classic is my favorite. This gunmetal link bracelet by OIA JULES is just that. A beautiful bracelet that can be worn alone or stacked, with so many different outfits. Oh, and you can't beat the price!

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I've always been inspired by the paintings of Mark Rothko. Especially his works of large forms, layers of color, and simple abstract expression. This season, I'm especially taken with this one using orange and cobalt together. That color combination is really spectacular.

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Do you like to getting mail? I'm in love with writing notes, thank you cards, and love letters - and I don't mind getting them either! I would consider it a long ago art form and an amazing gift in this day, when someone takes the time to write you. What a happy moment it is to open the mailbox to find a special envelope waiting for you. These darling Queen Bee note cards by Crane Stationary caught my eye, because of their cheerful pink and adorable gold engraving.

And that's what I'm falling for right now! I hope you like my roundup and enjoy a spectacular Friday! I would love to hear what you are in love with today?

Friday, I'm in Love, v.15

It's Friday and I'm in love with...

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I now realize that taking daily walks in a shopping center with an Anthropologie is highly dangerous. During my perusing earlier this week, I spotted this railroad spike cuff and nearly knocked over a rack of earrings trying to grab one. I was surprised at how great it looks with my MK watch, particularly with the spike side up. (Sadly, I didn't buy it. The reason for that has eluded me at the moment...) Heart.

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Get it? Man, do I love me a play on words. This cheeky card is one of several I found on Etsy that would be perfect for my cerebral cutie. (I'm a nerd. I own it.)

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Want. Waaaaant. Wednesday's debut of the TOMS ballet flats was every bit as exciting as I thought it would be. The prices? Not so much. But could these be any more perfect? Great color, great material, great support/comfort...I mean, this style is called "Natalia." Coincidence? Me thinks not!

Your eyes are not deceiving you; that is a salad. Yes, I'm loving salad. Well, I'm loving all things healthy at the moment, really. M and I got back on our walking/jogging routine (praying my knee allows that to continue), and it never ceases to amaze me how physical fitness inspires healthier choices when it comes to eating and drinking. I think less about taste and more about nutrition (though, rest assured, this salad was every bit as good as it looks).

Have a great weekend, friends!

Friday, I'm in Love, v.14 {Guest Blogger}

Today's guest post is from one of my dear bloggy friends, Amanda at Do I Even Like This? If you dig her picks (which you will, they're fabulous), be sure to check out her Hit Lists. But don't blame me if your wish list expands by a dozen items after you've done so. Just sayin'.

It's Friday and Amanda's in love with...

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I've been on the hunt for something to keep snacks tidy in the depths of my handbag and this week, I've found it. These adorable cases from West Elm have a zipper (crucial) and can be personalized! Now just to decide, my name in a nice coordinating gray or a bright pop o' color?

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The hubs has been away on biz this week and that provided the perfect opportunity to get some spin time in with tunes that I love but that aren't at the top of his hit list. If you missed Fistful of Mercy's debut when it was released last year, get thy download on promptly. Ben Harper + Joseph Arthur + Dhani Harrison = singer/songwriter love fest at its best.

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I'm in the thick of it learning how to cook gluten free but, really, that's not nearly as important as getting some GF baking down so I've strapped my big girl pants on and taken the plunge with this recipe from Alton. I subbed Bob's Red Mill All Purpose GF flour for Alton's mash up and the results were, I gotta say, pretty darn good. Me want cookie!

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My fave mani/pedi girl (shout out to Ruslana at Juko -- if you're in Chi-town, look her up!) turned me onto this magical little pen. I am completely guilty of neglecting my cuticles out of sheer laziness but this pen makes it so easy. Just turn the crank, apply and push back for tidy, ladylike nails. Perfect for travel, it smells like heaven and it's vegan, too! What!? I know!

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Just 'cause it's on sale doesn't mean it's not heaven, y'all. I picked this JCrew cardi up in heather gray and we've been spending a lot of quality time together of late. It is super soft, warm and just long enough in the back to cover my bum bum so it can be paired with leggings or jeans. For once, she who is shortest wins!

Awesome stuff, huh? I have a cardi similar to the J. Crew lovely above and it's probably my favorite in my closet. It's very snuggle-worthy, and woop woop for covering the bum. High five, shorty!

I'll be announcing a new giveaway tomorrow, so be sure to check back!

Friday, I'm in Love, v.13

It's Friday and I'm in love with...



All images via Pinterest

I experienced mild chest pains when I peeped the price of the only running shoes that didn't instantly inflict brutal pain on my arches, but got over it as soon as I walked the trails in my Nike Vomeros. They're perfect for my weekday power walks along the Trinity. Also handy during these walks is my Bobble bottle that M got me for Christmas. We have free bottled water here at work, but this recycling gal has a hissy fit at the idea of going through a bottle a day (plus) to stay hydrated. The filter on this BPA-free bottle works great!

NYE may have come and gone, but who needs a holiday to sport sassy nails?! Spicing up a neutral nail with gold sparkle is a great way to keep the post-holiday ho-hums at bay. I am also a huge fan of casual braids on days when you just don't feel like getting all your tools and styling crap out to deal with your mane. I'm letting my hair to grow long again so that I can sport a chic, loose side braid without looking like a JV cheerleader. In the meantime, Davines' Universal Polishing Coat keeps my naturally curly hair from going all Simba on me during these misty January days. No joke, one finger-comb through with this stuff and my hair is perfectly shaped until I wash it again.

What are you lovin'? 

Friday, I'm in Love, v.12 {2011 in Review}

It's the last Friday of the year and here's what I loved "best" in 2011...

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Best film: Super 8. To be fair, I haven't been to the theater near as much as I should've this year, so I know there are some gems I've still yet to see. But this film was fantastic. It was nostalgic, enchanting, well executed, and had just the right balance of genuine, character-driven storyline with the signature J.J. Abrams sci-fi twist.



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Best album: Barton Hollow by The Civil Wars. Since downloading this album in February, it has been in heavy rotation in my car, on my nightstand dock (I alternate between "The Violet Hour" and "My Father's Father" as my alarm), and during my travels. I was ecstatic to see that their cover of Leonard Cohen's "Dance Me to the End of Love" made it on the album. It's flawless.



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Best legislation: labeling regulations for sunscreen. I am not generally a huge fan of the FDA, but they finally took a step in the right direction when they introduced regulations for how sunscreen may be labeled and marketed to consumers. They certainly have a long way to go in terms of enforcing truth in labeling across the board for the products they oversee (specifically food, but that's another soapbox for another time), but this is an important change and one that will hopefully create awareness about sun safety.   

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Best trend: demure elegance a la Kate Middleton. I heart Kate. I really do. She has brought modesty back in vogue, which this prude really appreciates, and did so in a way that is timeless and elegant beyond her years. She is also a minimalist, which I adore. Homegirl could be draped in diamonds, yet she chooses understated pieces, classic lines and an exquisite color palette. Cheers, Mrs. Wills!

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Best song: "Down in the Valley" by The Head and The Heart. It's tough not to pick one of the many lovelies off of Barton Hollow, but I positively adore this song. It's layered, rustic, melodic, and simply demands the listener sing along and tap their feet. The transitions within this tune create a sense of receiving an awesome two-for-one. I can't get enough of it. 

What were some of your "best" loves in 2011?

Friday, I'm in Love, v.11

It's Friday and I'm in love with...



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Casual Fridays in the office are all the sweeter when it's cool enough to throw on a cuddly fleece pullover. I feel like I'm working in pajamas, especially with one hand cupped around my still-warm coffee mug. Mmmmm.

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It wasn't until M shared an invite to a friend's Christmas party this weekend that I remembered how excited I got about these soirees. If I wasn't so lame had a bigger place, I'd throw quite the fete for my wonderful friends. But in the meantime, I will nom on our gracious host's snacks and enjoy the shared merriment. (What am I going to wear?!)

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Sleep can, at times, be an allusive mistress for this gal. When I find myself restless at bedtime, my Sleep Machine app saves me from puffy eyes and the need for a coffee IV drip the next morning. I've had various versions of a rain sound machine on my nightstand over the years, and the soothing sounds of falling rain lulls me right into miemies.

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My cousin Heather makes these yummy holiday pretzel treats every year for our Christmas Eve gathering, and I look so forward to them. (And the company, of course!) They're pretzel windows topped with Kisses or Hugs, baked for a moment in the oven, then crowned with Christmas-colored M&Ms. Nom!

Happy weekend, y'all!



Friday, I'm in Love, v.10

It's Friday and I'm in love with...

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I was never really the touchy-feely type, but having spent the last year with someone who considers physical touch one of his top Love Languages, I've learned that a simple touch from another human (be it a hug, holding hands, a kiss on the cheek) can make you feel so loved and connected (a rarity in the age of uber autonomy). I'm a full-blown hugger these days. (You've been warned.)

Hello Kitty + Christmas = awesomeness. I have an affinity for all things Hello Kitty, so this adorable ornament is right up my alley. Especially with her sassy pirate ensemble, though it looks more Alice in Wonderland to me (which is even more rad).

Perhaps I'm still sad face over the loss of dear Cowboy, but I am an absolute sucker for puppy eyes these days. M's pup Isabel was working the eyes big time last night, reminding me how innocent and in need of love are these furry kiddos. Their little expressions are priceless.

Today is a very special day in my world. My honey was born on this day (a handful of year ago, of course). I am so thankful that God created such a lovely man from two wonderful parents. Happy birthday, baby.

Happy weekend, y'all!

Friday, I'm in Love, v.9

It's Friday and I'm in love with...

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I have never really been all that big on cinnamon (the flavor or the scent). But ever since curiously witnessing M couple cinnamon and coffee, I have been hooked on this comforting combo. My Taste of Austin blend just isn't the same without it.

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Without getting too personal or heavy on this Friday post, I will simply state that my dad and I are finally, as adults, really forging a proper relationship. I hadn't spoken to him in the last two months, for no particular reason, and I finally dropped my stubborn pride and sought him out yesterday. It was so nice to just pick up where we left off and not have to hash out and whine and pout. I'm so thankful for grace. Whether you're giving or receiving this gift, it's absolutely beautiful.

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The last few days in North Texas have been overcast and cooler, weather that absolutely begs for a nice evening fire. I'm still pretty clueless when it comes to building one (apparently not everything that can burn should be used as kindling...now you know), so M takes care of business while I cuddle up in jammies and stare mesmerized at the flames.

What's keeping you cozy this week, dear readers?

Friday, I'm in Love, v.8 {Gift Giving Edition}

It's Friday and I'm in love with...

Gift giving!

'Tis the season, y'all, so for this post-Thanksgiving installment of Friday, I'm in Love, I'd like to spotlight my favorite gifts for friends and family. There are endless possibilities for each item, so consider thoughtfully your recipient and you'll be sure to put a smile on their face and a warm fuzzy in their heart.

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Warm beverages feel extra special when sipped from pretty mugs. (The collections at Anthro make me dancey.) Monograms up the adorbs factor and are a great way to honor your recipient.

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Eat, drink and be merry by passing along a lovely bottle of wine to dear friends. There are many varieties and tastes when it comes to wine, but I think it's safe to say that reds (merlot, cab, malbec if you're feeling frisky) are generally well-received. And when in doubt, break out the bubbly.



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If you like the idea of gifting something wearable but don't want to fuss with size and fit, presenting a great accessory is one-size-fits-all. Timeless scarves are a great way to please the fashion-conscious in your life, and they're practical to boot! (Tip: if your recipient resides in a warmer region, you can still spice up their scarf drawer by opting for a lighter, year-round-friendly material like knit or rayon.)

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Scented candles are such a simple way to create warmth in a home, room, office, etc., and given the pretty tin and glass holders candles reside in these days, they're totally bow-worthy! (Tip: mellow peeps may appreciate lavender or lilac, while more bold folks may enjoy currant or jasmine scents. And for those who share scent space with fellas, outdoorsy scents are good, though I have found that guys also like baked-goods-inspired scents. The way to their hearts...)

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There is still time to order monogrammed hand towels for your favorite host/hostess. Even with the customization, you don't have to spend a fortune as even a single towel is an appreciative nod to the hospitality of your recipient. (Tip: if you aren't sure of the color scheme of their kitchen, powder room, etc., go for neutral, elegant shades like crisp white, beige, slate blue or natural linen.)



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Prettily packaged for presentation, blank letterpress note card sets are always nice to have around. These throwback tokens of elegance beg for a special message, penned by hand, and ensure the smile-inspiring love will be passed along long after your gift is unwrapped and hugs are exchanged.

What are your favorite items to gift to loved ones? Any special finds this year while braving the madness of Black Friday? (Oh, be safe out there today, y'all!)

Friday, I'm in Love, v.7

It's Friday and I'm in love with...

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Dashing any chance of looking hawt in my comfies, giant fuzzy socks are on my feet on a regular basis these days. I never actually buy these, but they typically show up in my Christmas stocking and I am elated. They're so comforting and make me feel like a little kid. Get you some.

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Ever since my success with the lentil taco recipe, I've been positively enchanted by this legume. I nommed some of the excess lentils that had only been boiled in water--no salt, no pepper, nothin'--and they were fantastic. They're full of iron and protein, keep well and don't require soaking. Lentil soup has been such a comfort food for me ever since my college roomie's Greek mama introduced me to it, and I'm so excited to explore other recipes and uses for lentils.

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As I obsess about proper recipes to contribute (finally) to the Thanksgiving meal this year, the Epicurious app has been more helpful that you can shake a stick at. Most of the recipes have photos, and all of them have reviews, which I love reading for substitution ideas and real-life expectations. ("This dish took 4 hours to make and used all of my pans. But yum!" Yeeeeah, I'll pass.) 

Wishing y'all a great weekend and a lovely week ahead as you prepare for Thanksgiving. Remember: things will go wrong, there will be spills, there will be naps...so embrace the hoopla and don't forget to take some time for true, prayerful thanksgiving.

...Oh, and hug your host/hostess! They work hard, y'all!

Friday, I'm in Love, v.6

It's Friday and I'm in love with...



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Candles are an indulgence that I often talk myself out of because I don't need them. But I recently splurged and bought a wood wick candle that subtly crackles when it's lit. I must say, it's just not home without that baby going. (Target sells a brand called Nature's Wick. I insist you pick one up in the Bonfire Nights scent. It's wonderful!) 

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I wouldn't call if baby fever, per se. But M's sister welcomed a daughter into the world last week, and holding that precious little lady in my arms just made me melt. I couldn't stop staring at her, which just isn't polite. That sweet baby scent and feeling those itty bitty hands wrapped around mine...so good for the soul.



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Fruit is a special kind of wonderful in general. Apples, in particular, are like nature's treat. They're portable, sweet, crunchy and pretty to boot! I generally have at least two in my drawer at work for afternoon snack time. Nom!



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I'm not a big necklace person, but I've been wearing my long bronze skeleton key necklace nearly every day this week. Draped over a turtleneck, peeking out from underneath a scarf, or cozy among a cardigan, this accessory is perfect for fall and seems to work with whatever metals I am wearing elsewhere.

Speaking of awesome neck wear, have you entered my giveaway? 'Cause you should.

Happy Friday, y'all! Thank you for all the love and support.