Vintage style wool blankets

People keep asking me if the Chicago winter has started creeping into town.  Thankfully, it hasn't arrived yet, but I can tell that the end of these pleasantly warm days is near.

In anticipation of wintry evenings, I am dreaming of these gorgeous crafted wool blankets (as mentioned in My Current Obsessions: Fall Edition Post).  Hopefully Santa is listening, because these stunning blankets don't come cheap!

Hudson's Bay Point Blanket - Woolrich for L.L.Bean

100% Virgin wool.  Made the same way since 1925.  Practically wind and water resistant, these plush covers have been made in this candy-stripe style for almost a century.  Even Leon Leonwood Bean himself carried the HBP blanket in his car! A new one is $450 but you can find great used HBP blankets on eBay for  under $100.

Swans Island Company Wool Throw Blanket

This mid-coast Maine woolen goods company has some seriously spoiled sheep. So much so, that they are taken by boat to graze on an all-grass island. Doing so keeps the brambles and twigs out of their fleece and thus providing the softest wool ever. Not only that, but the all natural dyes make them graceful and sophisticated. These hand-woven beauties can run you upwards of $450...and that's just for the throw size. But I have heard that they are worth every penny.

Bon voyage lil' sheepies!

 Faribault Woolen Mill - Heritage Blankets

Since the 1860's this Minnesota based woolen mill has been skillfully crafting the finest wool blankets. So much so that 100 years later, in the 1960's, the Faribault Mill was producing over half of the blankets being produced in the United States!  With this kind of longevity and tradition, it's no wonder Target has picked up the brand for their next 'Designer for Target' Series (in stores November 2). Original blankets run between $100-200 but I'd bet the for Target line will be more affordable.

This Navy Foot Soldier Blanket is perfect

Woolrich Blankets

The classic Woolrich woolen mill of Pennsylvania has been keeping America warm for almost 170 years.  I grew up with a hunter green tartan-plaid version of this blanket, and recently hunted for it in our attic.  I can't wait to find it and steal it back for our apartment!

If this doesn't make you want to sit around an autumn
campfire, nothing will.  Just look at that plaid!

Stay warm and happy snuggling!

Bee

Current Obsessions: Fall Edition

Here are the top 10 things I'm digging for Fall 2014:

#1 Athleta Snowscape Jacket

I was lucky enough to win a gift card to Athleta last week through, CARA (Chicago Area Runner's Assoc), and it couldn't have come at a better time! I was running low on cold weather running tops and needed to do some shopping. I went in for my awesome fitting last weekend and I focused on cozy but breathable tops. I had the hardest time deciding on just one, but eventually chose this sweet hoodie.

if only I looked this good while running...

 **If you haven't shopped Athleta yet, definitely take a look.  Both nice looking, and high performance, this gear will take you from the gym, to coffee with friends, to lazy weekends on the sofa!

#2 Vests...all of the vests

The puffer, the quilted, the fleece or the long open sweater vest...I adore them all.  They are a versatile part of every fall wardrobe (especially on days when the temperature can't seem to make up it's mind).  I like to layer mine over long sleeve t shirts, button down chambrays, thin cashmere sweaters and especially flannels.  Accessorize with a scarf, wear under a light jacket for added warmth, dress up with tall heeled boots or dress down with a pair of Chuck Taylors.

Here is a partial peek at my collection of these cozy little puffers!

Red: J Crew Winter 2012, Tan: J Crew Fall 2013,
Buffalo Plaid: J Crew Factory Fall 2014, Fleece: Vineyard Vines 2012
*When I find a good thing I get multiples...don't judge 

 #3 Cinnamon scented pine cones

I walked into Whole Foods the other day for some dill and pickling salt.  When I crossed the threshold, I was overcome by the tantalizing scent of cinnamon.  I needed to have whatever it was that made the entire store smell like fall goodness.  When I found out it was this $5 bag of pinecones, I was thrilled.  We've had little bowls of them scattered around the apartment for a week now...and it smells better than any candle we've ever owned (and less flammable too!)

#4 The ever-popular blanket scarf

If you are from northeast, female, and follow any fashion bloggers, it's likely that you have seen this scarf at least 100 times.  So, consider this the 101st time you're seeing it.  It is warm.  It is enormous.  It is wonderfully soft and snuggly.  It goes with 90% of the clothes in your closet.  It is affordable.  Now, if only the weather would drop 10 degrees so I can wear it without breaking a sweat!

The Pink Pineapple Shop
This store is located in Newport, RI and has some amazing accessories,
cashmere sweaters and gifts.  Stop in and visit the store on
Thames St or  just log onto their website!

#5 Pickles, pickles, EVERYWHERE!

I love to make handmade Christmas preserves for family and friends each year.  I never remember to do it during the harvest season, however.  Thus missing my opportunity to use locally grown produce picked at their peak, while spending extra cash on out-of-season items.

This year, though, I finally remembered...HARVEST! We cleared out the farmers market of cucumbers, peppers, onions, herbs and garlic and made a first batch of dill pickle spears this past weekend.  I can't wait to get back at the end of November and do some dilly carrots, dilly beans, bread and butter pickle chips and even some jam.  In the meantime, I'm ordering extra pickles with everything, mmmmmm!

These spicy dill's are devilishly good, and SO easy to make!

#6 Vintage inspired wool blankets

Whether on your bed, used at a picnic, or just a throw to cozy up on the couch with, these classic blankets keep you warm, and look great in any room!

**Keep an eye out for a wool blanket post coming up in the next few days!

#7 Pears

These days it's hard not to bump into a "Pumpkin Spice" flavored product.  But, let it be known, pumpkins do not have the monopoly on Autumn flavor.  The pear is both delicious, and abundantly in-season right now.  They are full of fiber, vitamins C and B-6, and sweet juicy goodness. Pick some up today!

#8 Vance Joy's 'Riptide'

This song...this song is GREAT (and has been on repeat for days). 

#9 Pumpkin Greek Yogurt Parfaits

I made these for us last fall and this year, they have become a fan favorite.  Super easy and quick to make, while still seeming fancy.  Make ahead or make to order, these will definitely wow your brunch guests.

What you'll need: 8oz Fage 0% plain greek yogurt, 1 8oz can of organic plain pumpkin,
1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice,  mix these three ingredients together.  Serve a glass
in layers with banana slices, your favorite granola and almond slices.

#10 Frederic Fekkai Essential Shea Riche Moisture Mask

The temps begin to drop and the dry heat starts pumping through your radiators....it's right around now that our hair starts to look wintry dull and dry.  Have no fear though friends.  Fekkai's rich, luxurious and downright luscious scented hair mask is here to help.  It takes 5 minutes to work it's magic in your shower and you'll emerge with soft, shiny and full locks. Promise.

Do you have any must-have items for fall?  If so, please share it in the comments below!

Happy obsessing!

Bee

Dinner for Two...

Nuthin' says lovin' like 3-course home-cooked meal from the heart, especially in this house :)

All 3 of these recipes are super easy and quick to prepare, full of healthy whole-ingredients, while still being scrumptious and romantic!


Crisp Veggie Salad with "Lemon Sauce"-
2 cups of dark leafy salad greens (I used baby kale)
1 cup of grape tomatoes halved
1 bell pepper chopped
1 cup fresh green beans
1 cup sliced mushrooms
2 persian cucumbers chopped
(any of your other favorite veggies...but keep it light, the main course is RICH)
1/4 cup of chopped scallions
S&P to taste

Lemon Sauce-
This dressing recipe is from my dear friend, Sonal.  Her crazy adorable kids eat it on EVERYTHING and affectionately refer to it as Mama's lemon sauce.
1/4 cup olive oil (light, not extra virgin)
1 cup fresh lemon juice
5 fresh garlic cloves minced and ground with a mortar+pestle
S&P
1 tsp good dijon mustard
Stir or shake vigorously until emulsified

Spaghetti + Turkey Meatballs-
1 lb (organic, anti-biotic free, and lean) ground turkey
2 organic eggs
1.5 cups whole wheat breadcrumbs
1 tbs oregano (I use ground, but flakes work as well)
1 tbs thyme ( I used fresh but dried also works)
2 tbs each sea salt + black pepper
pinch of red pepper flakes
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 yellow onion finely chopped
3-4 cloves of garlic minced

In a large mixing bowl, mix all of the ingredients together (Use your hands. Yes, it's messy, but it's the best way to mix it evenly, plus, it's FUN!)

Turn on your crock pot to high setting and pour in your favorite marinara sauce (about 12oz).  I usually use my own sauce, but this time, I used Rao's low-sodium marinara sauce to save time.

Roll the meat mixture into balls (about the size of a golf ball), and set aside. Tip: dip hands in water to keep the mixture from sticking to you while you form the balls. In a hot non-stick pan with a few drops of olive oil, place the meatballs.  After about a minute turn them 2-3 times to allow for browning on all sides.  Once all of the meatballs are browned, place them carefully into the sauce.
Allow to simmer in there for at least 2 hours (warning: simmering may cause irresistible smells)

Boil your favorite spaghetti with a bit of olive oil to keep it from sticking and salted for flavor (I like whole wheat pasta).

Serve pasta topped with turkey meatballs and marinara sauce.  Fresh ground black pepper and shaved parmesan cheese as desired.

Handmade Biscuits topped with Bourbon Berry Compote+ Whipped Cream-
2.5 cups Krusteaz Buttermilk Pancake Mix (you can use any pancake mix)
1/3 cup skim milk
1/3 cup sweet butter (softened)
1 egg

Preheat oven to 375 degrees, Mix in a bowl with fingers until dough forms.  Roll into a log.  Cut into 1-1.5 inch thick rounds and place on a parchment lined baking sheet.  Bake for 9-11 minutes or until golden brown.

Bourbon Berry Compote-
1 pint of halved hulled strawberries
1 pint of blueberries
1/4 cup bourbon of choice
2 drops of vanilla extract
1/3 cup of raw sugar

In a small saucepan, on med heat, slowly bring bourbon, sugar and vanilla together to a slow boil. Stir constantly until the sugar is disolved.  Toss in the berries and turn heat to low.  Stir occasionally and remove from heat once the compote thickens to a syrup- like consistency (about 25 min).

I cup whipping cream (aka: heavy cream), 2 drops of vanilla extract and 1 tsp of confectioners sugar. Using a hand mixer, whip until the cream peaks. Be careful not to whip it too long, or else you'll have butter.

Serve biscuits warm topped with compote and cream.
Sorry there is no finished product photo of this recipe, we were too busy stuffing our faces to photograph it...living in the moment and such.

How good does this biscuit look? It tasted even better

Tyler gave this dessert an A++

Happy eating, friends!
-Bee

PS. Stay tuned for recipe cards

Typography Love

...One Kind Word Can Change Someone's Whole Day...

The beauty of typography is highly underrated, despite being one of the most accessible forms of art. When we moved into our apartment, I stumbled upon an old Speedball textbook from the 1960's that Ty's grandmother gave him. Every now and then I pick it up and try my hand at learning a new font. The hardest part for me is keeping them a consistent size...practice makes perfect, but I still like playing nonetheless. Handmade cards, framed quotes, love notes...

Here are some gorgeous examples for you to feast your eyes upon

Happy writing!

Bee

Feathers & Arrows...

Arrows+Feathers...they are a perfect pair, just like peanut butter+jelly, bees+honey, ying+yang.

I have had a growing attraction to them for about a year now. And it's entirely possible that they are usurping the anchor+rope as my favorite motif.  

Anyhow, here are some examples of how to accessorize life with Arrows & Feathers!

A DIY Leather Cord & Silver Feather Charms Necklace

West Elm Striped Throw Blankets with arrow detail

 His&Hers arrow details on the blankets...
Monogrammed, obviously!

Threshold Feather Throw Pillows

Paper Source Sonix iPhone 5S cover - stylish and life-proof!

Our newest addition: real ARROWS
(From my favorite little floral and gift shop in Logan Square,
Fleur Chicago  I foresee many more trips there in my purchasing future!)

This whimsical watercolor (ETSY) is on my wishlist for our bedroom.

These DIY paper feathers as package embellishment are
Christmas 2014 inspiration (I'm thinking GOLD!)

Happy decorating!

Bee

The Dying Art of the Thank-You Note...

Last night, as I was snuggled up, watching the new NBC comedy, 'Bad Judge' (which is hilarious by the way), Kate Walsh's character delivered the following punchline: It's like getting a present and having to write a thank you note. It's just really not worth it".  While being a hilarious one-liner in a sit-com, it is an all too true reality in today's society. But writing the note and showing thanks IS ALWAYS WORTH IT.

In a world of instant gratification, the slow art of mailing a hand-written gesture of appreciation to friends and family is being pushed to the wayside.  While I do love a very public Facebook Thank You, social media is generally impersonal. Nothing, I repeat, NOTHING, will replace the personalized hand-written, snail-mailed thank-you note. 

When one arrives in my mailbox, I get a wonderful fuzzy feeling (anything in the mail that isn't a bill or advertisement does it for me, but especially personalized notes).  Nothing says "I appreciate you/gift/help/friendship" more than taking a moment out of the daily hustle to send a note of gratitude (plus finding a stamp and mailbox to drop it in).

Here are some tips for making Thank-You note writing just as fun to give as to receive:

Oodles of Notes:

When you are expecting to receive many gifts (Birthday, Shower, Graduation, Wedding) bring a little notebook to keep a record of specifics; who gave you what.  That way you don't have to guess or even worse, send a note for the wrong present, eek! 

Be prepared, always keep stationary or note cards stocked (like you would do with toilet paper).  Don't worry, it doesn't need to be customized monogrammed stationary (it is a dream fantasy of mine, but not necessity).  Nowadays there are thousands of stylish, beautiful, whimsical and quirky stationary options that are very inexpensive.  Places like TJ Maxx, Home Goods, The Paper Source, Target, even CVS carry fun options.  Also, try to always keep a book of stamps stocked in your home. 

When you have a whole bunch of people to thank, don't avoid the pile because it's overwhelming, try writing them a few each day.  You'd be surprised at how fast you can get through them. Baby-steps!

Lastly, keep addresses organized.  Put the addresses of friends and family in a spreadsheet.  When they move, be sure to keep it up-to-date, so you're always ready to send! 

The Wordy-Stuff:

Now, just sending a note in the first place is thoughtful, but let's strive for more, shall we? Not everyone is a naturally eloquent writer, so here are some helpful guidelines:

~ a cheerful greeting

~ thank recipient for the gift/help - remember to be specific

~tell them how you will use it/what you love about it

~be fun - include a photo, little quote or colored pens to add that lil extra sumthin'

~ wrapping up - to end your note always be positive and uplifting - don't worry about sounding          sappy, friendly words are contagious and addictive

~ most importantly, speak from the heart!

It's all in the Details:

Here are some favorite stationary companies that I am completely obsessed with:

Rifle Paper Co

The Rifle Paper Company note is for those moments when only a beautiful will do and are perfect for the more formal occasion.  These cards (all of their products for that matter) are nothing short of gorgeous!

Julieannart on Etsy 

Julieannart is for your closest of friends. Those who can take the hilariously inappropriate messages written on these kick-ass cards. Needless to say, my potty mouth and I are OBSESSED and love following spunky JulieAnn on Instagram.

Kate Spade

Always a good idea to keep these standard styles stashed away for those unexpected Thank You's, and who better than Kate Spade to provide a witty, lady-like timeless card!

Lastly, if you're crafty, and have supplies laying around, don't be afraid to consider a hand-made hand-written thank-you card.....hello glitter and glue sticks! Here is a silly one that I made and sent to Tyler last year for sending me gorgeous birthday flowers!

Cheers & Happy Thanking!

Bee