LURVE LOAVE LUFF

Let's get right to it, shall we?

Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.

• Penta Globe Wall Sconce // This oversized mid-century sweetheart would make a statement on any wall.
• Pink Clipboard Frame // Talk about multitasking! This clipboard can hold photos, notes, ticket stubs, etc.
• Write-On Highligther Set // The highlight of today's Love List, this pack of three is practically a pack of six.
• Collar // Thanks to Ban.do, I recently learned about Wild One. I love their simple and stylish pet supplies.
• Small Green Bucket Bag In Boarskin // Is it bad I want a Frances Valentine bag mostly for the precious tag?
• Apartment On Belmont // I hope this wildly talented duo continue to sell their illustrations. Adorable!
• Abstracts & Collages by Katie Pumphrey // Now I want to search all over Washington DC to find her work.
• Rosalie Flat Pom-Pom Sandals // Okay, I think we all know these had me at HELLO!! How could they not?
• Tie-Waist Striped Jumper // Has anyone tried this bestseller on? I'm dying to see what the fuss is about.
• Rope Sandy // Show off your favorite summery clutch in the sunniest way possible. Isn't she delicious??
• Gingham Pajama Shirt and Shorts // In a delightful PJ set like this, you're sure to have sweet dreams. 
• Shebam Blop Pow Wizz Sweatshirt // It's official, I'm a CV sweatshirt junkie. This one is next on the list.
• Howlin' Tail Gin Cocktail // With guests on the way to DE, I better get the bar cart stocked and loaded.
• Pura Cal Pitcher // I haven't the foggiest idea what the description actually says, but I know I'm smitten.
• Colorblock Planner // I don't want to part with my trusty planner from Target. This might be an alternative.
• Hem Lounge Chair // Industry West is having a SALE!! Any chance I'll win the lottery and then buy this?
• Twist Bow Headband // As evident from Wednesday's post, headbands up your hair game in an instant.
• Kirra White Beaded Earrings // Chunky and big—two of my favorite ways to describe an accessory.

Have a fabulous weekend, m' dears! I'm taking next week off to hang with the fam for the 4th.

THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS

VIA

FEELING: Sometimes Flyboy's job takes him to really cool places. Sometimes he gets to return to a beautiful island where we used to live, and I'll get texts with photos of beaches and onolicious treats. I *should* be happy for him, but instead I just get really annoyed and respond to his lovely messages with every eye-roll gif I can find. In the event he eats Mac Nut Pancakes at Boots and Kimo's, he better pay in cash because if I see the restaurant show up on our banking, I'm going to fire up the lawn mower and start doing wheelies in his precious grass. That beloved Toro TimeCutter is going to be fueled by gin and jealousy. Ha Ha! Kidding, kind of...

THANKFUL FOR: Since FB is out and about jet setting, Max and I might swing down to D.C. for a few days and visit my parents before the second round of in-laws arrive next week. The planner in me thinks I should probably stay home and clean some more since we'll be having guests, but for the sake of our marriage, it's probably best I get a change of scenery. I mean, I'm starting to run out of perturbed gifs I can text him and I'd hate to see our emerald turf all torn up as a result of my joy ride (#greenwithenvy, anyone?!). Our Amish grass man works REALLY hard.

THINKING ABOUT: We recently got this mini projector and portable projector screen from Amazon so we can watch movies outside this Summer. We haven't had a chance to try it out yet, but we're super excited to make it a thing, especially on the weekends. Stocking up on snacks will be easy, now to figure out what movie to stream first. Ideas?

READING: Whenever I put this out into the blogosphere, it manifests, so here we go. I'm going to be predictable AF and tell you that I can't seem to find the latest Summer issue of Domino anywhere in Dover. I'm pretty bummed, as it hit newsstands June 1st. Sure, this wouldn't be a problem if I just subscribed to the glossy already, but then I wouldn't have anything to complain about. Of course, when I do find it, I will feel like a champ. It's a vicious cycle.

LISTENING TO: Do all four year olds think they're an expert about everything? Mine feels the need "Maxplain" it all, and it's a bit much. I always thought it was just tweens and teenagers that acted this way. Should I go ahead and assume this behavior will continue for the next thirty years? After he's got a few decades under his belt, maybe, just maybe, he'll agree that his mom was right at least some of the time?? Heck, I may have even taught him a thing or two.

WATCHING: I don't know what it is about Teddi on RHOBH, but I simply can't stand her this season. She really didn't bring much to the table last year, but I didn't mind her. This time around, however, it's as though she's found a newfound confidence since buddying up with Kyle (who I like). Now that she's seated at the cool girls' table, she comes off as desperate and as though she's trying too hard. Does this make sense? Am I being too hard on her? Aside from holding everyone "accountable" and stirring the "puppygate" turd, she adds very little value to the show.

EATING: Whenever someone comes to visit, most of the planning revolves around food. Add a holiday like the 4th of July on top of things and we've got some BIG decisions to make. Now, I realize we're still a week away, so I should probably slow my roll, but I could use ideas!! So far we've got 50 Stars BBQ Chicken via In Honor of Design and the Pioneer Woman's Best Baked Beans (she's not lying!) on the menu. What about dessert?? Another side dish?

LOVING: In my ongoing pursuit to get a nice bronze glow on my face without the sun damage, I decided to try St. Tropez Self-Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist (what a mouthful!). Fully prepared to return the product, I filed the receipt in my wallet when I got home, but it looks like I can go ahead and just throw the paper away because I'm obsessed with the mist. I still haven't figured out how this magic potion works, but the application goes on evenly after I've moisturized my face in the evening (I apply every 2-3 nights). Then you wake up with a nice bronzed glow the next morning—no weird streaks or spots like some other face tanners I've tried in the past.

How are you feeling today? What are you up to? Thanks for stopping by!! 

WHAT I'M WEARING WEDNESDAY

Botox has been incredibly effective in terms of my migraines. Hallelujah! But there's another perk to the injections that didn't occur to me until after I got poked the very first time and that's HEADBANDS, y'all!!! I LOOOOOVE a good headband, but whenever I tried to wear them in the past for more than an hour, the sides of my head would start pounding. Now that I don't have to say no to this hair accessory and there are oodles of adorable options available, it's opened up a whole new world of accessorizing for yours truly—not to mention, an extra day or two without having to wash my mop. SCORE! Over the past few months, I've dabbled with several brands (J.Crew, Amazon, Madewell, Shopbop, H&M, etc.), but I keep coming back to Anthropologie. Most of their headbands cost less than twenty dollars and the fit is incredibly comfortable. They've got a variety of patterns from stripes, seersucker, and polka-dots, in a rainbow of colors, constructed from materials like linen, chiffon, and even raffia. Here are m' faves:

1. Kristen Bow Headband $18

2. Lauren Knotted Headband $18

3. Ophelie Knotted Headband $18

4. Alice Bow Headband $18

5. Dakota Bow Headband $18

6. Raffia Headband $24

7. Kristen Bow Headband $18

8. Reese Bow Headband $18

9. Poppy Striped Headband $18

10. Gigi Headband $48

LIFE'S LITTLE DETAILS

"THE DETAILS ARE NOT THE DETAILS. THEY MAKE THE DESIGN." — CHARLES EAMES

Happy Tuesday, m' dears! Today's batch of photos is the most accurate way to sum up this Summer so far. When we're not shoveling handfuls of fresh blueberries in our mouth or double-fisting slushies, we're probably hosting in-laws, catching toads and snakes, refilling the inflatable pool with more water, building planes with Legos, taking snapshots of sunsets, or chasing fireflies at dusk. The past ten days have been eventful to say the least, as we hosted family from Missouri, and then we proceeded to send Flyboy off on his first mission post-deployment. We've got our fingers crossed that he'll make it home in time for the 4th of July when our second round of visitors (FB's dad and stepmom) arrive for their first trip to DE. I suppose it's time to wash the linens and make a few more lists. Giddy up!

Are you doing anything exciting this Summer? Any plans for the 4th?

FEATURED DETAILS: STRIPED TEE // SWIMSUIT // SUNGLASSES // FAVORITE THINGS TOTE // STAY WILD TEE // PASSPORT

LURVE LOAVE LUFF

Let's get right to it, shall we?

Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.

• Crewel Peekaboo Cover // Forever browsing West Elm's selection of throw pillows, this caught my eye.
• Simple Planner in Fuchsia // A little book with big plans! This planner packs some serious punch.
• Straw Hat with Pom-Pom // Eek! I would look like a total goober wearing this, but I want it sooooo badly.
• Glossier Zit Stick // I didn't think anything could top Mario Badescu's Drying Lotion, but this is pretty great.
• Voluminous Lash Mascara // I wanted to see what he hubbub was about, so I gave this a try and WOW.
• Velvet Fringe Oversized Lumbar // Have you seen this stunner in person? I'm dying to know your thoughts.
• Orange Lente Fluo Glass // An acrylic "crystal" highball that practically screams DRINK ME! I'll take four.
• Leather Covered Tape Measure // A little luxury that would serve as the sweetest gift. What's not to love?
• Strawberry Split by Alan Fears // His work makes me SO happy. With color like that, how could it not?
• Courage Over Comfort // A nice reminder, but I have a feeling this will be a lifelong lesson for me to learn. 
• Paperbag Shorts // I don't love to wear shorts, but there's something I adore about a paperbag waist.
• Northside Vintage Tee in Burnett Stripe // For $20, I think I've found the perfect Summer striped tee. Squee!
• Stretch Crystal Bracelet // Kate Spade taught us to never stray away from a little sparkle. Perfection!
• Suede Scalloped Platform Espadrilles // It's taking everything inside me to restrain from purchasing these.
• Austin Crossbody Bag // You guys!! I saw this in-store and it's even more delicious than the photo conveys.
• Satin Magenta Blush and Waianae Sunrise Lipstick // I'm super excited to give both of these products a try!
• Salad Plates // The best part about a Summer soiree? An excuse to use all the bamboo and melamine.
• Chunky Fringe Throw Blanket // It should come as no surprise that I fell hard for the Preserved Lemon. 
• Font & Typography // Searching for a little inspo? Look no further than this site. Eye candy GALORE!

Have a fabulous weekend, m' dears! Make it count.

Note: The featured paint splotches and stripes are created by Alan Fears 

and taken from his various works, specifically My Favorite Chair and Apple Bonanza.

LONGWOOD GARDENS

"THE DETAILS ARE NOT THE DETAILS. THEY MAKE THE DESIGN." — CHARLES EAMES

Happy Thursday, m' dears! We visited Longwood Gardens in PA this past Sunday, and it would be silly for me not to share a handful of gorgeous images I took from our trip with you. The botanical garden sits in the Brandywine Creek Valley and consists of over 1,077 acres of gardens, woodlands, and meadows in Kennett Square. The selection of garden displays is absolutely dazzling! There's everything from exotic plants indoors at the Conservatory to a variety of formal and naturalistic outdoor gardens as well. The Pierce-du Pont House, assortment of whimsical tree houses, and an extraordinary fountain show can't be missed! In fact, I'm eager to visit again because I'm certain we didn't cover all the grounds this time around and getting to experience the gardens as the seasons change sounds dreamy. Not to mention, I learned that there's this bloom called a Tassel-Flower and I need that plant in my life stat.

If you ever find yourself in the local area, I highly recommend a visit.

Beautiful details and pops of color are planted around every corner. You'll love it!

LURVE LOAVE LUFF

Let's get right to it, shall we?

Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.

• Letterfolk Passport Collection // I'm obsessed with Letterfolk's passports. They're the cutest gift idea!
• Pommed Felicity Pillow // Go ahead an embellish your home decor by infusing a little personality.
• #GOALS // I saw this quote pop up in my Pinterest feed and it was a nice little reminder to keep going.
• Oversized Canvas Bag // This SZ Block Print bag is bananas! How perfect are those pink and red stripes?!
• Cookies & Cream Cupcakes // I need to be on a plane to the London for one of these amazing cupcakes.
• Allison James Art // I get a lot of questions about how I find artists and Instagram is usually the answer.
• Initial Large Scale Print // Polka dots on polka dots. Tell me, does it get any better than a combo like that?
• Lyla Petal Studs // Described as "whimsical, botanical inspired studs with just the right amount of sparkle."
• Ground Tone Utility Skort // I thought skorts were a thing of the past, but never say never. It's adorable!
• Oversized Silk Barrette // What's so great about Behr's barrettes? I'm tempted to see what the fuss about.
• Ruffle-Neck Top in Silk Crepe // This feels like classic J.Crew and I'm here for it. Cerise will be my top pick.
• Cross-Strap Espadrilles in Calf Hair // These took some breaking in, but now that it's over, I'm in LOVE!!!
• Hello Coat Rack Sign // Make a statement in your entryway with something that's bright and beautiful.
• Dad!!! I Love You!! Card // Father's Day is THIS Sunday. Dad, if you're reading this, I hope you like your gift.
• Katy's Favorite Things Tote // I love that Frances Valentine has created a Love, Katy collection for Kate.
• Madewell x Biltmore Hat // I'm getting some serious glam gardening vibes with this had and I need it.
• Bravery Magazine: The Julia Child Magazine // You have no idea how much I adore the latest cover girl.
• Strawberries In A Basket  // Gavin's illustrations are just one of the gems you'll find on Artfully Walls.
• Madewell Beach Towel // I've never identified with a beach towel more than I have with this one. Eek!
• Striped Holiday Beach Umbrella // In honor of National Stripes Day on June 21st, J.Crew has partnered with Business & Pleasure. The classic print in navy and the irresistible frilly fringe detail are a dynamite duo. 

Have a fabulous weekend, m' dears! Make it count.

THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS

VIA MORGAN HARPER NICHOLS

FEELING: In less than 24 hours, I became one of "those" annoying Apple Watch owners. Apparently my life revolves around closing my rings these days. I wake up and the first thing I do is start my device because I refuse to miss out on any steps, dammit. Then, when the weekend rolls around, I can't be okay with relaxing anymore because I'm too fixated on my activity. I used to make fun of my mom and Flyboy for these shenanigans; now I'm just as guilty!

THANKFUL FOR: Last Friday was one of the first days FB actually worked a full day since he's been home (Yes, we've been very spoiled!). By 4 PM, Max and I were struggling and I felt like time was crawling at a snail's pace. It made me wonder how we did it for four months. Haha! It clearly didn't take us long to become dependent on the guy again. 

THINKING ABOUT: Okay, gang! Are you good at following instructions? Here's a little test. Find out if your local nail salon uses the brand Perfect Match (new to me, as well). Then, cross your fingers and toes they have the shade Heatwave. I promise you, this color is like Clambake on crack. You will be pleased as punch with your mani/pedi.

READING: Here are a few fun and interesting links/articles I have open on my iPhone browser that are worth sharing...

Summer is Here! via Tulips & Flight Suits (Password: teamyonkman!!!!)

Brené Brown Shares Parenting Manifesto via Oprah Magazine

The Instagram Aesthetic Is Over via The Atlantic

Kate Baer's Motherhood Poems Make Me Laugh & Cry via A Cup of Jo

Jon Stewart Rips Lawmakers For Not Showing Up To 9/11 Responders Hearing via CNN

Parenting Twins: One Has Down Syndrome, The Other Doesn't via A Cup of Jo

How To Be Happy? A Nearly 90-Year-Old Has Some Advice via Glamour

The Doctor Of Apostrophes & Her Cringe-Inducing Discoveries via Stuff

LISTENING TO: It's no secret that Max has listened to a lot of Jay-Z and George Strait from day one. Since he was in the womb, I'd get the bass bumpin' with Hova or belt my favorite country classic a la King George on Highway 90. Some might consider the past 4.5 years as "prep work" in hopes it might amount to a love of either artist (hopefully both!). Over the past month or so, Max has taken to Old Town Road and lovingly refers to it as the "cowboy song." In a roundabout way it makes a lot of sense considering the music he was exposed to from the start. Then again, the lyrics "can't nobody tell me nothing" might be the part he relates to the most—it's like a four-year-old's anthem.

WATCHING: The last two weeks on Bravo have stressed me out, and we have a chef Mila to thank. Are you watching Below Deck? Did anyone review her resume before hiring her? Warming the steaks in the microwave is sacrilegious, but those pitiful nachos had me shouting at the TV. It's moments like these I wish I could be on The People's Couch.

EATING: Max and I went to a nearby town in Maryland this past Saturday morning for more touch-up paint while Nick rode in a bike race. After a pit stop at the hardware store, we ran into Tatiana of Flora and Fauna fame at a bakery she told me about recently. Thanks to Instagram, we’ve “known” one another for five years now, but we’ve never actually met. Her adorable and sweet family lived up to every Insta-expectation I had and more. They were warm and gracious, despite my nervous rambling and Max hiding the ENTIRE time. Meeting people from IG is nerve wracking to me on so many levels, but they were SO nice!! That being said, if you ever get the chance to witness Team Fine in the wild, we will fulfill every awkward expectation you can imagine and more. Sorry about that, Tatiana! Seriously, NOTHING can prepare you for our level of nutty; those curated squares are misleading folks. Thank God for the people who welcome our crazy with kindness and for bakeries that create tasty S'Mores Croissants so you can eat your feelings.

LOVING: I've been on the hunt for a new curling iron for awhile, but was hesitant about investing in the T3 because of its steep price tag. After reading a handful of glowing reviews and one convincing recommendation from Sara Mueller (who was underwhelmed with her T3 and returned it), I bought the Kristin Ess Beach Wave Curling Wand from Target last week and I'm obsessed with it. I actually enjoy curling my hair now because the curl holds for most of the day, and that's saying a lot as someone with very fine hair who used to think adding a little wave to her hair was worthless.

How are you feeling today? What are you up to? Thanks for stopping by!! 

LIFE'S LITTLE DETAILS

"THE DETAILS ARE NOT THE DETAILS. THEY MAKE THE DESIGN." — CHARLES EAMES

Happy Wednesday, m' dears! My goal is to get a few posts up this week before my in-laws arrive tomorrow afternoon, so I'm going to keep today's rambling to a minimum and let the colorful photos do most of the talking. God forbid we go TWO weeks without another Love List, am I right?? Also, laundry! I've got boat loads of laundry to do. Send gin!

While I go full Monica in preparation for our guests, fill me in on what you've been up lately. 

How's the Summer treating you? Any special plans?? I'm just dying to know.

FEATURED DETAILS: POLKA-DOT TEE // SLIDES // BAG //  HEADBAND // PORCH DETAILS // SCALLOP POTS AND SAUCERS