Push It Real Good

Birthstone ring {similar}  /  Name rings 1 & 2  /  Initial Necklace {similar}  

Name bracelet with stone  /  Engraved Name Ring  /   Bar Bracelet

Alright, I know it might seem pushy (ha :) to post about push presents; they have a bad rap, and I get it. But navigating the ninth month of pregnancy, and nearing the end of twelve weeks of birth preparation classes, I'm going to go ahead and assume it's safe to say that all mama's deserve a little something for the hard work, regardless of what we call it, whether it's given to us, or we gift it to ourselves.

I'm a sentimental person to the core, and since receiving gifts is my love language I thought it would be fun to round up a few ideas for the mom-to-be's or any papa's needing help out there gifting their loves on the little one's birth day (or any day!) I received the bracelet in the middle as a shower gift (which I love!), and these picks could also be great options for the upcoming holiday's, Mother's Day, etc.  My only advice, this is NOT the time to go generic. Avoid anything "Mom", at least if you're my husband *cough cough*. It doesn't have to be expensive, just think thoughtful, and something she'll treasure for years to come.

I'm partial to dainty initial or name jewelry pieces (this is my current fave, but this shop has some awesome personalized options!) but technology items, vacations, and or spa days are also good options if that's your thing.

Push it real good.

P.S. More ideas here.

Gifts for Mother's Day

Shopping for my Mom is one of the easiest (and fun) tasks I look forward to each spring.  Although having somewhat similar tastes gives me a solid starting point, the greatest enjoyment comes from the challenge of finding something meaningful and unique that will bring a smile to her face. For Mother's Day this year, I've scoured Uncommon Goods and have fallen in love with their selection. From sentimental and sweet to kitschy and fun, there is truly something for every mom! I admire that they support artists and designers (half of what they carry is made by hand) and nearly a third of their assortment incorporates recycled or up-cycled materials. It doesn't get more unique than that! Here are a few of my favorite ideas. 

Clockwise from Left: Succulent Living Wall Planter / Energy Circle Ring / Love Birch Cuff / Reclaimed Wood Cookbook Stand / Vintage Shoe Horn Bookends / Mother & Daughter Letter Book Set

P.S. Mom, your gift isn't pictured here but I couldn't be happier with it! ;)


Disclosure: I received product or compensation in return for this post, however, my opinions are my own, based on my experience and interaction with the brand or products. As always, if I don’t love it, I don’t tell you about it. (Or I'll be brutally honest about why I didn't.) You can read my official (i.e. “wordy”) disclosure here.

Wishlist Realized

aerie goodies  /  domino book  /  asos clutch  / rose gold watch (similar)

Took a notion to share a few of my favorite gifts received this year. I'm still majorly lovin' on them and figured since many of us spend time blogging and pinning wishlists of fabulous items, it might be nice to show a little appreciation for the ones we actually become lucky enough to call our own.

The older I get I'm realizing if we're going to do this whole gift exchange song and dance every year, we might as well ask for what we want so I'm becoming less shy about sending ideas and hints when pressed. Turns out, Santa (and elves and Mom's) hang out a lot here (which is totally cool with me.)

What were your something specials this year - did you receive an it item from your wishlist?  Have you shared your gifts with readers? If so, let me know, I'd love to check out how lucky you are. Heck, I might even totally copy you and add them to my own. You know, Valentine's is right around the corner... ;)

Hope this doesn't sound at all braggy -ugh.  (So worried you would think that!) Just feeling like a lucky/satisfied girl at the moment. Shoot - I'm still lovin' on last year's too! 

Treasure Bowls

"Treasure bowl" is a term I made up (at least I guess I did) for the simple yet sweet gifts I'm giving this year to some of my favorite females. Stemming from my latest obsession of pretty bowls and dishes ranging from from Anthropologie to thrift store finds I thought this could be a nice way to share a little cheer this season. The concept is simple: Find a small, pretty bowl and fill it with treasures. I'm going with theme's based on color and personality, only adding items that fit within the size of the bowl. (Easy to wrap!) The best part: you can make it work on any budget. When she’s used all the items you gave her, she can re-use the bowl and add her own treasures like collection of cocktail rings, seashells or vintage buttons. Here are a few ideas to get you started...happy treasure bowl hunting! 

The Glamour Girl

Features everything a glam girl loves - sparkles, gold and the hottest items on the market (ikat & glitter!)

Anthropologie Ikat Bowl / Kenneth Cole Urban Multi Earrings / Forever 21 Bow Ring 

 Forever 21 Star Ring / Deborah Lipmann Shake Your Groove Thing Nail Polish 

The Nature Nirvana

For the lady that loves natural elements in fancy interpretations.

Jayson Home Butterfly Dish / Forever 21 Leather Fringe Earrings / Asos Feather & Leaf Bracelet           Butter London Floral Wallpaper Nail Stickers / Victoria's Secret Pheromone Pefume Oil

The Blue Belle

She's a class act with impeccable style (and a touch of sass) who loves the sea and fine cuisine.

Cobalt Glass Bowl / Michael Kors Blue Chronograph Watch / Grey Sea Salt 

Circle Tag Engraved Key Chain  / Stargazer Chrome Nail Polish

Update: This post was featured on DailyBuzz Style's Top 9 - All About Ikat roundup - Thanks DailyBuzz Style!

Oh Mia, Oh My

Last night, this guy:

 Husband  / Cat Father / Outfit Photographer

Gifted me with this girl:

the Sonic Skin Cleansing tool that dreams are made of

And now, I'm the happiest girl in the world.

I've only used it twice but it's my new favorite beauty/styling tool.

Don't worry

I still love you.

What's your favorite beauty/styling tool?

Heated eyelash curler? Mini cordless curling iron? Do share!

The Gifts That Keep On Giving

It's been a little over a month since Christmas and I thought I'd share some gifts I'm still enjoying and thought you might, too.

I adore wearing this Tennessee necklace...

Home is literally where the heart is. Find yours at Truche.  

While I haven't actually cracked these open yet, I'm excited all the same. 

{War & Peace - The Happiness Project - One Last Dance}

  A wicked awesome spider bracelet from Mom is the perfect

mix of glam & goth.

An everyday tote, it means my little cabbage, a term of endearment in France.

 Story People stories warm my heart. So sweet and true.

A CTA pillow makes our Chicago home complete. 

North and South DVD Set - because I could always use more Patrick Swayze in my life. (1212 minutes more to be exact.)

Sweet Petula soaps - the most divine scents in the most 

adorable packaging.

Any gifts you'd like to share?? I would love to know your loves!

Have a lovely weekend, I'm hoping to jump into North & South!

Weekend Shopping

Welcome back from the long weekend - I hope it was wonderful! With a full belly and excited mind it's time to really gear up for holiday shopping! I took a little part in Black Friday & Cyber Monday but didn't cross as much off the list as I'd hoped. I had originally intended on completing most of my shopping online this year (easier to resist personal shopping temptation!) but after seeing these events, I'll have a hard time sticking to that plan.  All are in the Chicago area this weekend, if you're around check them out!

Renegade Handmade Craft Fair

Do-Division Holiday

Jewelry, Fashion & Accessories Show

Thank you all for the fabulous gift guides - I've taken many wonderful ideas from you. Keep 'em coming, I need all the help I can get! Time is not on my side!

Fabric Gift Wrap

How fun is this reusable fabric gift wrap??  I wheelie like it *giggle*
Many more to see at Chewing the Cud.