Ah, lucky number 13! And the first this & that of the year. I spent the holiday season at home in Phoenix with mine and Idan’s families. We were there for 2 and a half weeks! It went super fast and super slow at the same time. It also was rainy and gloomy and cold almost the whole time we were there… go figure! We also got ENGAGED when we were home! Idan proposed in Sedona and surprised me with both sets of parents there. I am still floating on cloud 9 and don’t think I’ll ever come down. I’m going to do my best not to talk about engagement or wedding stuff too much on here, because I think some things should be kept private.

We also booked a trip to Israel in March which I am so so excited for! Between that and wedding planning, I am staying quite busy this year! My Etsy shop is back open for business now that things are semi back to normal, so if you have any custom bachelorette party needs, I’m your girl!

Sending all the good vibes your way for an amazing 2019!

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Links I Love

This pom pom throw has got me feeling hygge AF. Pictured above!

A few good productivity hacks.

Idan sent me this article about name pronunciation and why it matters so much. Up until now, he used “Dan” as his Starbucks name because nobody could figure his real name out. This is why he’s not doing that anymore. (P.S. it’s “EE-don” )

What’s going on with Flywheel and SoulCycle? My friend Bethany breaks it down.

Did you finish The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel season 2 yet? It went wayyyy too fast!! If you love the show, you’ll love these books.

This post from The Everygirl breaks down if you should start investing or not… definitely something to think about!

Jess went to Portugal and now I want to go to Portugal.

I am obsessed with this Chicago Gold Coast condo–this girl has STYLE.

My friend Cody started a blog!! Her post about makeup got me–do you feel comfortable leaving the house without makeup?

10 beautiful small towns in France. Also, 10 safety tips for female travelers in Paris from my friend Rebecca.

The staff of Cupcakes & Cashmere review the best things they watched and read in 2018. How many of these have you watched/read?

My all-time favorite fitness studio in Chicago has opened a brand-new Lincoln Park location! It’s right at the intersection of Fullerton/Lincoln/Halsted and the space is gorgeous. They’re doing a week unlimited pass for only $35 right now–email [email protected] to claim. You can’t have taken a class there in the last 6 months to be eligible!

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On The Blog:

The best chocolate chip banana bread EVER.

A fun craft for 2019: mi casa es su casa doormats

Meet the artist: Katherine Corden

A money-saving tip you probably don’t know about.

Gift ideas for the feminist in your life.

The post this & that, volume 13 appeared first on love always, audrey.

On Saturday, Tori and I hosted our annual mug and cookie exchange party! Everyone brings a batch of cookies and a mug ~$15. We do the mug exchange white elephant style and people steal from each other… it’s really fun! And everyone leaves with a baggie full of assorted cookies. We’ve done this every year we’ve lived together and it’s fun to see how it’s evolved over the years… see the group picture from our first year below!

I had one of the best brunches of my LIFE this morning in Lincoln Park at Broken Barrel Bar (Southport/Wrightwood). Chef Bryant Anderson had my friend Julie and I in to try out their new brunch menu and we were both so impressed. We had the Hangover Breakfast Sandwich, the Fried Chicken Sandwich, the Chocolate Chip Banana Pancakes, and some really amazing chicken wings. It was so hard to pick a favorite dish! A bit of what we ordered was on the seasonal menu, but the Hangover Breakfast Sandwich and the wings are staples there. Try not to drool looking at the menu!

Not only is the food incredible–Broken Barrel Bar is the perfect place to watch a football game in Lincoln Park! Julie and I were both saying how we’d love to bring our boyfriends back because they’d be obsessed with it.

I really, really, really recommend this place! Thank you so much to Chef Bryant for having us in.

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Links I Love:

This mug cracks me up WAY too much and I think I need it.

This wall art is really cool. And it’s on sale!

This is cute: 6 great things that real bookstores all have.

Hanukkah may be over, but if you don’t know what it’s about, this is an easy explanation for next year!

I made these cookies from Monique’s blog recently and there was not a crumb left. SO. GOOD.

I love my friend Beth’s article about why our generation loves food halls so much. She nailed it, don’t you think?

Is there anything the Barefoot Contessa makes that isn’t delicious? This recipe for crispy mustard chicken & frisée looks amazing.

I updated my photography blog a bit as I’m trying to get back into my portrait photography business! And I ordered a new lens. And I’m taking an online course to refresh my skills a bit. Here we goooo!

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On The Blog: 

An easy dessert bar you can make over the holidays!

Free holiday wallpapers for your computer or phone!

Where to eat in Chicago.

The post this & that, volume 12 appeared first on love always, audrey.

Helloooo from Phoenix! I’m in town for my last wedding of the year! For those of you who know me well, you know that I’ve been to 9 weddings this year. The one thing that has been my saving grace during this crazy season is my RTR Unlimited subscription… I’ll get into that more in another post.

I’ve been reading a LOT on the internet this week so have tons of links to share with you.

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Links I Love:

I saw this book in a bookstore last night and was cracking up. No matter what your politics are, you have to admit this would be a hilarious coffee table book. Or at least a fantastic white elephant exchange present.

I just burned my favorite pumpkin candle completely down so it’s time for a new one… I’ve heard that this one is fabulous and I also love the Capri Blue brand generally, so this one is probably amazing, too. If you’re into handmade candles, this is the candle that I lovingly burned all the way down to its tin. Is the word “candle” starting to sound weird to anyone else?

This list of 100 websites that changed the world gave me serious nostalgia. I admit I was mainly checking on it to make sure Neopets was on there (spoiler: it is). What websites defined your early internet days?

I loved this post from Jess about botox. As I get closer and closer to 30, I feel like it’s something my friends and I actually talk about (mostly from a preventative standpoint). There are so many good points on both sides of it, and I love that Jess opened up the conversation for everyone. Read the comments, too!

Grace shared a super cozy sweater, and more importantly, started a conversation around sharing on social media. How much is too much? And should people be posting pictures and details about their kids? I have so much to say on this subject and loved reading her perspective. Again, read the comments! So many good thoughts there.

This blog goes over all of Meghan Markle’s outfits and finds dupes (or links to the real things) and it gives me LIFE. Meghan is definitely my style icon so any way I can copy her style is a win for me.

This article has been making its rounds on the internet and for good reason–would you ever date without texting?

Monique shared a recipe for healthy soft pumpkin cookies with a salted maple frosting. Ummm…. yes. please.

Hilton is launching a new, millennial-centric hotel concept and I am HERE FOR IT. It looks like they really nailed it and listened to the needs of our generation. Now, where to first?

I can’t believe all of these products are from Ikea.

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On The Blog:

Host or hostess gifts for Thanksgiving dinner. Don’t show up empty handed!

Host your own Friendsgiving dinner!

11 places to get your creativity on in Chicago. This is especially helpful with the cold winter months coming right up!

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Quote of the Week:

“First, choose from the options that thrill you.
Then, choose the ones that also teach you.
And from these, choose the scariest.”

-TUT, a note from the universe (an email I get daily)

The post this & that, volume 11 appeared first on love always, audrey.

Happy Sunday from Chicago! I say this loosely–I am currently on the Amtrak back from Ann Arbor, where I spent part of the weekend with Idan. We tailgated for the Michigan game, but didn’t end up going because the weather was pretty crummy. Luckily I like tailgating WAY more than I like football.

This Fall is NUTS. We have had 4 weddings already and have 3 more lined up for the next 3 weekends. To say we’re exhausted is an understatement, but we love celebrating with friends… especially when we get to go home to Phoenix for them!

Without further ado… links I’m loving:

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Links I Love:

In case you missed it, I made these decals for women to put in their shower to remind themselves to check themselves. I’m donating a portion of the proceeds to Bright Pink, an organization whose mission I strongly believe in.

5 science-backed ways that taking a break boosts our production.

Do affirmations really work?

These built-for-Instagram places like A Happy Place and The Color Factory seriously make me sad. And I found an author who agrees.

I have been using this free app to split bills with friends when we go out for meals. It has been a COMPLETE GAME CHANGER!

Jess’ Chicago staycation looked absolutely perfect. So perfect that I tagged Idan in her Instagram posts as a not-so-subtle hint. 

I’ve been getting hit hard with Sézane ads on Facebook and I can see why I’m their target market–they are now my obsession! Their sweaters in particular have been calling my name, specifically this one.

Charlotte’s homemade cinnamon applesauce looks divine.

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On The Blog

I hosted a fall-themed garden Shabbat dinner a few weeks ago. It was lovely.

‘Tis the season! What to buy a newly-engaged friend.

I decorated my whole apartment last year for Halloween for $20. As if that weren’t reason enough to get a Cricut machine!

Not all of this is relevant again this year, but here’s my Fall post from last year. Recipes, wish list, playlist… it’s a good one.

The post this & that, volume 10 appeared first on love always, audrey.

Live from New York, it’s this & that! But really, I’m in New York this week. I’m visiting Idan, who is almost done with his summer internship in the city! Then it’s back to grad school in Michigan, and then he’ll graduate in May, and holycraphowdoestimegosofast.

I digress. Life has been a little insane lately (and by that, I mean a LOT). With ramping up my Etsy shop, in addition to #summertimechi, and also having a full-time job, I am filling up every hour of every day. But you guys know I thrive on that. I’ve had so little time for online reading, so this column has certainly taken a hit, BUT I have been reading a lot of books. Reading helps me wind down before bed (I usually read until I fall asleep), and you can see some of my most recent favorites here on my Amazon page.

Here are some links I’ve gathered in the last few months. I think you’ll enjoy!

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This week’s links:

16 early risers share their morning secrets.

“Self-care” is not all baths, face masks, and “treat yo’self” moments. It’s this.

This DIY hidden medicine cabinet is SO good. I think I’ve found my next home project!

I love this DIY copper magazine holder!

This writer doesn’t give a damn what you think of her summer body. YOU GO GIRL.

Ever hated a book but still finished it? I’m guilty as charged. Here’s why this happens to you.

Oh, you guys. I am so obsessed with this French sculptural art.

Charlotte’s mini fruit pies recipe looks SOOOOO GOOD.

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In case you missed it (from the blog):

What to buy a newly-engaged friend.

Your health questions, answered by a naturopath.

Chocolate-covered mochi for an easy summer treat!

Cheaper Nordstrom anniversary sale picks for 2018.

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I hope you’re having the best summer! xo

The post this & that, volume 9 appeared first on love always, audrey.

Oh my, where to even start with this update?! There has been a TON going on in my life, hence the radio silence over here.

For starters, my little brother got engaged a few weeks ago! So relieved I can finally spill the beans. It was in the works for soooo long and I’m thrilled it finally happened. I could not be happier with my soon-to-be sister in law! She’s the best.

It is FINALLY nice in Chicago. I was wearing a parka 2 weeks ago, and today I spent most of the day outside–I went to the Green City farmer’s market, and then laid out in my hammock with Taryn for a few hours. It was so refreshing to just lay out in the sun without a care. I mean, I have a TON to do this weekend, but I’m pushing eeeverything off until tomorrow when it’s supposed to be raining.

Idan and I leave for Paris/London in less than a week! I’m so freaking excited. I bought a bunch of clothes and accessories for the trip… more on that later.

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This Week’s Links:

THE SHOES. If you follow me on Instagram, you know all about the shoes. They’re on sale again!! I highly recommend the nude ones.

The Gal Meets Glam dress collection is everything I want. Seriously, I am OBSESSED.

So how many hours, exactly, does it take to make a new friend?

How to stop caring so much what others think of you.

I wish I had this guide handy when moving to Chicago!

Here’s what Monica’s apartment would have looked like if she lived in 2018.

Okay, you guys remember when I interviewed local Chicago artist Katherine Corden? The Everygirl did, too, and they also photographed her gorgeous apartment.

How to create a gorgeous cheese plate using stuff from Trader Joes!

I recently discovered Jenny’s Print Shop and I think this will be my forever go-to for inexpensive wall art!

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From the Blog:

The ultimate weekend guide to Chicago.

Where to eat in Chicago.

An oldie but goodie: advice from mom.

A delicious spring salad recipe.

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The post this & that, volume 8 appeared first on love always, audrey.

Happy APRIL! I can’t believe I’m saying that… weren’t we JUST toasting to the new year?

I had about 100 good April Fools pranks planned today, and I just didn’t get to any of them. I’m a little bummed but I guess there’s always next year! Watch out, roommate and boyfriend.

Our Europe trip is getting closer and closer and I couldn’t be more excited. I’m going crazy planning out our itinerary, trying to plan my outfits, finding new luggage, etc. Isn’t it crazy how planning for a trip is SO stressful? I guess I shouldn’t complain because I’m literally going to Europe and the fact that I can do that is such a blessing. But I digress.

I finished such a good book this week: Educated by Tara Westover. It’s such an incredible memoir and this woman is so strong. I highly recommend, especially on Audible (which is where I listened!). I’m also in the middle of this book and just can’t put it down.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter, Passover, or weekend!

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This Week’s Links:

This is dark and hilarious–Garfield strips minus Garfield (the cat). Thanks to my brother for sending me this one!

I recently joined Book of the Month Club and have been LOVING it. Side note: I didn’t realize this club was, like, 100 years old until recently. It was definitely a d’oh moment when I found out! I thought it was a new, hip, millennial, algorithm-based thing, ha!

Camille Styles shares her top tips for throwing the perfect party.

I finally used my KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker attachment and honestly it’s my new favorite toy.

I am such a big fan of Lucy Cuneo’s photography work and just found out she has a really amazing blog! She goes over her best Instagram tips here and I think they’re worth looking at. Now to start a gofundme for a piece of hers…

A few tips for keeping conversations going at dinner parties (or any other social situation, really). Keep people off their phones!

I’ve always wanted one of these: a DIY Holly Golightly sleep mask!

This GORGEOUS cake makes me even more excited for our Paris trip next month!

Speaking of Paris, this ultimate guide to Paris helped me so much with my itinerary.

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From The Blog:

Know someone traveling this summer? The perfect gifts for the travel bug.

Your health questions, answered by a naturopath.

How I spring clean my body, space, and mind.

A cute lil’ spring tea party with Paper Source!

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Quote of the Week:

There is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise.

-Unknown

The post this & that, volume 7 appeared first on love always, audrey.

Haaaaappy Friday!! I could not be more glad it’s the weekend. What a week, huh?

Let’s see what’s happened since I last wrote a this & that post…

I went to New Orleans last weekend with Idan to visit our friends that we made on our Mexico trip last year! They live there and we were due for a visit. NOLA is one of my favorite places and it was so special to show Idan. I can’t get enough of the music, the houses, and the food. We had po’ boys galore, went to a Jazz show at Preservation Hall, and did a swamp tour! I can’t wait to visit again.

On the same travel vein… we just booked a trip to London and Paris this summer! I am SO FRICKIN EXCITED. I’ve never been to either city and we already have mile-long wish lists of things to do there. Also, we will be in London for the Royal Wedding so I’m extra thrilled about that part. I also definitely already booked our tickets to the Harry Potter WB Studio Tour… nerd alert.

I’m spending this weekend at home just relaxing and unwinding from this crazy work week. I’ll also be working hard on my Chicago travel guide! On to what’s interesting me this week…

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This Week’s Links:

I just finished (and LOVED) this book. Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington are making a series out of it and I can’t wait.

Grace had the perfect response to this article about yoga pants and why they’re “bad for women.” What’s your take?

Another reason to get a house plant – this graphic shows the best air-cleaning plants according to NASA!

Want to try apple cider vinegar to fight sickness but not sure how? This article sums it up.

A guide to some cute places in Chicago to catch up with friends.

This is one trait that I am constantly (CONSTANTLY) working to have!

This 550 square foot apartment could not be chicer.

So you wanna learn about Jewish food.

You had me at goat cheese: a recipe for stuffed portobello mushrooms with crispy goat cheese. Drool.

Love this post from Carly about how meditating actually changed her life.

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From The Blog:

A recipe for Guinness Chocolate Mousse, just in time for St. Patrick’s Day!

The BEST chocolate chip banana bread ever.

Arriba! DIY Mi Casa Es Su Casa doormats.

Why I think Chicago’s new Ezza Nails is the next big thing.

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Quote of the Week:

“There are always flowers for those who want to see them.”

-Henry Matisse

The post this & that, volume 6 appeared first on love always, audrey.

How is it already halfway through February, especially when January was so long?! One thing I think is really cool about the world is how everyone I know seems to be on the same page of when it’s been a long week or short week, or long month or short month. Isn’t that funny?

I posted on Instagram tonight about the MVPs of my new skincare regimen… should I do a post on that? Do you guys even care (I won’t be offended if you don’t)? Comment and let me know if you do! All my current favorite products are here:

What are you all up to for the 3-day weekend? If you’re looking to do some reading, carry on:

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This Week’s Links:

Well these look delicious: skinny banana chocolate chip muffins.

So excited for Ashley and her new Sugar & Cloth party product line!

I’m getting some major inspo from these two 101 in 1001 lists! (List One, List Two) Maybe I’ll share one too?

Doggies are hoomans too!

These oatmeal bites look SO yum.

The ultimate Friends drinking game. Game on.

Lavender (the color) is having a moment right now, thank goodness. Remember my KitchenAid? Looks like I had the right idea ;)

121 things to do instead of spending your hard-earned money.

These cookies have been zooming their way around the internet!

Are you following along on Pinterest yet?

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From The Blog:

These DIY doormats are perfect for you if you have a Cricut or Silhouette machine.

My new Chicago print looks beauuuuutiful in this custom-made frame!

An easy dessert bar idea for spring!

Also, a fun tea party!

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Quote of the Week:

“Great people do things before they are ready.”

-Amy Poehler

The post this & that, volume 5 appeared first on love always, audrey.

I have to say, I am a bit surprised at myself but also impressed that I’ve managed to do this series for 3 weeks in a row. This was, after all, the goal… but I’m glad to be sticking to it!

This weekend started off with celebrating Taryn’s birthday. The girl spent 2 days preparing and cooking food for 13 of her friends… for her own birthday! She’s amazing.

Then, Saturday morning, I hit the road with a friend to go back to Ann Arbor for Idan’s MBA winter formal. It was basically college again and SO MUCH FUN! I have to say it’s nice to be able to experience the fun parts of the MBA program without having to do the work ;) It was a quick trip and I just got back to Chicago, less than 36 hours later!

I just did the dishes and am chilling out with a candle and this chill playlist, so let’s move onto this week’s links, yeah?

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This Week’s Links:

What is Manifestation and how does it work?

Danielle shares 10 things she wishes she knew in her 20’s. These are so good!

I still haven’t seen The Greatest Showman but am positively amazed at this video.

Tonya Harding’s thoughts on I, Tonya, and finally being heard.

I’m really loving Jess’ capsule wardrobe remix series!

Loving this bedroom redesign from Alaina! Thinking about those nightstands for myself…

These fringe earrings are 50% off and SO darling!

DIY this upholstered bench next weekend!

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From The Blog:

Why I insist on printing my photos

How to care for and maintain adult friendships

My favorite salad recipe ever

DIY floppy hats for your next bachelorette party or beach getaway!

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Quote of the Week:

“Confidence is not ‘They will like me.’ Confidence is ‘I’ll be fine if they don’t.'”

-Unknown

The post this & that, volume 3 appeared first on love always, audrey.