7.31.2014

"Book Club"

Yesterday was just one of those great days. The weather was perfect, the house was clean, the kids were in the best of moods, and "book club" was at my house that evening. 

Miss Mary 


Took the kids out for a picnic at the edge of the property. Feels like a field trip, but we don't have to get in the car. 


I use quotes around "book club" because there is no book at the moment. Everyone is either a new mom, about to become a mom, or has multiple kids under 5, so books are a bit of a commitment once a month. Wine and food we can get behind. It is a great group of girls that I am so lucky to have become close with. It was so fun hosting this time and the weather outside made for great al fresco dining. 







I stocked up at Target on plastic plates, cups, and silverware. I like to use the clear plates to class it up a bit when I do not feel like doing dishes. Target has cute cups and napkins in fun colors. I have been cutting hydrangeas from the yard and they have wilted within hours every time. But, I tried a new trick that I read about online and I am happy to say they are going strong. 

1. Clip hydrangeas from bush and put directly in room temp water. 
2. Take out of water when ready to trim, cut to desired length and place stem in very hot water, almost boiling for 30 seconds. 
3. Place directly into room temp water in vase you want to use. Repeat with each stem or do quickly with a bunch. 

Here are just a few of the few of the menu items, wish I would have gotten pictures of everything. It was delicious. 


Lemon Quinoa with Arugula and Parmesan 

Whisk together 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 chopped shallots, 1/3 cup lemon juice (3-4 lemons), 2 teaspoons of honey, 1/3 cup of olive oil

Cook one package of quinoa according to the package directions and place in a serving bowl. Let cool a bit. Season and toss the quinoa with the vinaigrette (you may not need all of it) to taste.  Refrigerate until chilled. (Can be made a day in advance)

Toss in a few handfuls of arugula and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan. Toss to combine and serve. 


Water, Feta, and Mint Salad

Simply cube up watermelon, chop some fresh mint, and crumble on the feta. 


White Bean Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Bocconcini 

2 pints cherry tomatoes, 2 cans navy beans (drained and rinsed), 1 pint extra small bocconcini (mozzarella balls), handful of chopped fresh basil, 3 cloves of garlic minced

Mix all in a bowl and season with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper to taste. Toss well to combine and refrigerate at least one hour or overnight. 

Great served alone, tossed with pasta the next day, or salad greens. So yummy. 


Fresh Tomato Pasta with Mozzarella 

Chop 3-4 fresh tomatoes, crush two garlic cloves, rip up a handful of fresh basil and throw in a big bowl. Season with a bit of salt and pepper. Let sit at least one hour and up to all day. 

 Remove the garlic cloves. Cook your favorite pasta according to the box's instruction, drain and toss directly into the sauce. Add in 1 container of  bocconcini (mozzarella balls) and toss to combine. season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper to taste. 

xo
Erin 


7.30.2014

What to Wear

When you get married your husband becomes your roommate for life. And while I love living with Matt, I miss the days of having a girlfriend down the hall to raid her closet and give me an opinion of what to wear. I got a taste of this again when I was with my friends in LA and it was so fun trying on outfits, dressing each other up, and giving the honest truth. And I could use some help with my choice for a Friday night out with my friends to celebrate the birthday. Can you help a girl out? 

Choice #1: White tank & Leather mini


Would add some bangles and cuffs and stick to the white, black, and gray palate. 

Choice #2: Navy chiffon top & pink skinnies


This top is actually see through with an open back, so I could wear a lacey cami to sass it up in back. It is actually on sale now in pale pink



Choice #3: White tank & Neon striped bandage skirt


Not sold on my shoe choice with this, but could switch it up with some pink pumps. 

So ladies, which should I choose? Would love your opinion! 

xo
Erin 

7.28.2014

Diamonds on Monday

Blah, Monday is so lame. So in an effort to make it better, let's looks at some diamonds. I have my radar on some delicate diamond rings as I like something small and femme on my right hand, there was one on my bday wish list. I kind of like them alone, but by starting a little collection you can get a finger party going pretty fast. 



A pretty solo diamond ring is kind of the best, but I like stacking as well. I even mismatched my engagement ring and bands in different metals and styles and I love it. Obviously at any price point diamonds are an investment, so just pick something classic that you can wear forever. 

The good news is there are some fantastic styles of diamond rings under $550 that would be so pretty added into your other rings or solo. A lot of people think diamonds are always in the thousands, but as you can see below, there are some seriously gorgeous pieces that are a great addition to your wish list. 


1. This double diamond ring is so chic. $460
2. Gorgeous update to the eternity band. $534
3. Obsessed with this love knot ring. $506
4. A classic eternity band $395
5. This ring resembles a crown is just so cool $315
6. A cross ring would be fun in a stack $375
7. A mini evil eye ring. Love it so much $465
8. go straight for the stack with Jennifer Meyer $525
9. This braided diamond band is genius. $350
10. Another pretty eternity band $498
11. The filigree on this gold band gives it a vintage feel $250
12. This arrow ring is modern and fun $390
13. So simple, yet so gorgeous. Gabriela Artigas $264
14. This rose gold ring would be perfect solo. $495
15. A cluster of diamonds is always better. Jennifer Meyer $500

Monday just got way better, right? 
xo
Erin 



7.25.2014

Happy Weekend

image via Pinterest

What are you doing this weekend? We have nothing on agenda except a date night tonight, so I would say that is about perfect. Could use a little rest after last weekend. This glorious weather is screaming for wine on the patio and open windows all night long. Love it. 

Hope your weekend is sweet and relaxing. 

xo
Erin 

7.24.2014

Pop of Neutral

I am really in a black kind of mood lately. Not so much that I feel down as I am already looking to Fall for recent purchases. I usually gravitate towards gray and denim, but now I am all about black. And as much as I wish I could pull off a totally monochromatic look, I need at least some color to break it up. Looking at my closet, I have plenty of brights to do so but somehow a pop of neutral feels so much cooler to me. Here are some looks I put together that could be worn now and into Fall with the addition of some opaque tights and your favorite leather jacket. In black obvi. 

Pop of Gray 
1. Lacey crop from Topshop $58 / 2. Classic clutch in soft suede by Claire V. $194 / 3. These Vince booties are killer $395 / 4. Flirty skirt from J. Crew $89

Note: This type of crop would only show just a sliver of skin and this is a high waisted skirt perfect for this look. Belly button is covered, that is the priority, ladies. 

 Pop of Beige 
1. Worship this FindersKeepers romper $130 / 2. Total splurge, but who doesn't want a piece of Victoria Beckham $658 / 3. Pretty adjustable belt for cinching. B Low $138 4. A more wallet friendly version of the nudist sandal, but still great quality. Shutz $180 

Pop of White
1. I own these and love them. Seven $189 / 2. The perfect white tee from J. Crew $29 / 3. Dream Bag by Phillip Lim $895/ 4. Loving the shape of these Ray Ban sunglasses $135 / 5. A drapey cardigan on sale at Nordstrom $44

Is it weird that I am looking forward to Fall? I think this slightly cooler weather is fast tracking my anticipation. 

xo
Erin 

7.23.2014

San Fran Designer to Know: Katie Raffetto

I have always known that my friend, Katie Raffetto, has been an uber talented designer and her recent spotlight on CasaSugar only confirms it more. Katie has a fresh California aesthetic, mixing traditional with modern so well. You can see her professional portfolio here, but seeing into her own San Fransico home is so much more fun. The full article and these images can be found over on CasaSugar

First off, how adorable is she with her bump and toddler, Annie? 


The entry to the apartment is organized and chic. 


Annie's nursery is fun, yet functional. I mean, this rocker? Dying. 


Katie's bedroom is the stuff dreams are made of. That headboard is unreal and mixed with the blue bedding is perfection. 


 The dining room has such a great mix of what you can only think are some of Katie's favorite finds. From antique markets to travels. 


Worship the lantern light fixture and farm house table. 


You can tell that Katie knows how to make a space livable for adults and kids. Chic storage, plenty of space to play on that table (actually 4 ikea tables put together), a comfy space for Mom to hang out with friends too. 


I mean, the cuteness. 


All of Katie's touches work so well together. And I love the appearance of a room full of things that the owner loves. 


xo
Erin 

7.22.2014

Birthday Wish List

I get so greedy when I start putting these lists together. There are too many fun things out there to not want everything, but here are a few of my favorites right now that are on my birthday wish list. 

1. A delicate diamond necklace by Sarah Chloe $324
2. Ferragamo flats $450 (7.5)
3. A vintage American flag like this one for my staircase. 
4. Reilly sunglasses in Whiskey by Warby Parker $95
5. Pink French top (xs) and striped bottoms (s) from J. Crew (on sale!) $40
6. Comfy Joie pants $168 (s)
7. Two Fouta hand towels from Serena & Lily $18 
8. My favorite eye serum is running out by Kinerase $68
9. Laundry anorak on the Nordstrom sale $129 (s)
10. White slides from Birkenstock $80 (7.5)
11. A delicate Jacquie Aiche ring $110 (6)

I would be lucky to get any of these, and really I need nothing. But isn't that what birthdays are all about? What is on your wish list right now? 

xo
Erin 

7.21.2014

LA Weekend

The weekend in LA was fantastic. Plenty of time off from being a Mom with insanely great food and even better friends makes for a perfect few days. Here is a little glimpse into what I did.  


Teas and shopping on Rodeo. Came across this adorable BCBG dress for 50% that I passed on, but now am kind of regretting. 

Read more after the break...

7.16.2014

LA: What I Am Packing


I could not be more excited for a weekend away to LA. Though I have spent most of my life in the Midwest, my birthplace, my family, and many summers and holidays spent in Orange County means my heart has always been in California. It always feels like home when I am there and I am so excited to share that with one of my lifelong friends who has made it her new home. It is bound to be filled with too much wine, too much laughter, and just enough time away from the responsibilities of home. A bonus visit with some friends from college sweetens it even more. Here are a few things I am packing and the lack of wipes and bottles in my carry on is already making me really happy. 

1. A sunny yellow Parker dress to match the sunshine. 
2. My coral PS1 because it makes me happy. 
3. A new mix matched suit from J. Crew
4. My scuba skirt from J. Crew is actually floral (sold out), but the black is also fab. 
5. Obsessed with this hydrating styling creme. Great for air drying hair or a blow out. 
6. These Splendid slides have become my flip flop alternative and are so comfortable. 

Happy Weekend (a little early). 
xo
Erin 



7.15.2014

Hukkster


In another episode of, "why did I not think of that?" let me introduce you to Hukkster.  This company is making your online shopping even more amazing. 


They cover hundreds of retailers and will notify you when something you want goes on sale. Almost all the stores that I usually am shopping on have it available. You can use it on your computer, like above. Or download the app to your phone/tablet. 


On your phone it works a bit like Tinder (not that I am on it, but so I have heard. ha) by giving you the option of swiping through retail options and seeing if you want to "Hukk" it or not. Which means that if you do Hukk it, then you will get a notification that your item goes on sale the minute it does. You can also search through your favorite sites right from the website or app and then "Hukk" it  from there. So let's say you are looking for a dress for a wedding, while you online shop for it you can Hukk the ones you like and be notified via email or a push notification if any of them go on sale. 

Kind of genius, right? It is a little hard to explain, so I would encourage you to download the free app and start playing. It is kind of addictive. As if online shopping could be any more so. 

xo
Erin 



7.14.2014

Banh Mi Salad

A Banh Mi is traditionally a Vietnamese meatball sandwich served with pickled vegetables, spicy mayo, and plenty of cilantro, which I made here. The flavors are so delicious together and all the components come together like magic. I have made a burger version of this as well. And now in an effort to simplify things with less steps and cut the carbs (Paleo friendly too. No I am do not follow Paleo, but have plenty of readers that do) a bit, I made a salad version that makes a super easy week night dinner. The meatballs can be made in advance and popped in the oven. And while pork is by far the best way to make these meatballs, you could sub in any ground protein. My toddler and baby even loved it, I just left out the hot sauce from the meatballs and dressing and served on the side for the adults. 


Banh Mi Salad
serves 4
Imperfect Polish 2014

For meatballs: 

1 lb ground pork
1/4 cup chopped basil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fish sauce, in Asian food section
1 tablespoon hot chili sauce or sriracha (leave out if you do not like heat)
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons corn starch
1 teaspoon peppper
1 teaspoon salt 
1 tablespoon sesame oil

Combine all of the ingredients and mix gently until well combined. Form into golf ball sized meatballs and place on a rimmed baking sheet. (Can be made one day in advance, cover and refrigerate)


For the dressing: 

1/2 cup light mayonnaise
1/4 cup rice wine vinegar (use white if you need to)
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 tablespoon hot chili sauce or sriracha 

Whisk ingredients together. Season with salt and pepper to taste, add more heat if you like. Cover and chill until ready to use. Can be made day ahead. 

For salad: 
Chopped romaine
diced zucchini or cucumber
cut carrots
cilantro
limes

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake meatballs until cooked through, about 25 minutes. 

To serve, arrange veggies for salad on a plate and add meatballs. Dress with the spicy mayo to your liking or serve on the side for dipping. garnish with some fresh lime juice. 

Enjoy! 
xo
Erin 



7.11.2014

Weekend Getaway

Even though I am not going on any type of trip this weekend, I got really inspired by this fantastic weekend bag to pack for one. 

This bag is from Barrington gifts (no not that Barrington) and you can customize with a fabric choice (there are many) and add a monogram. Love them. And at $275 it is a good price for the quality and size. How great would this be as a wedding present, too? 

So if I was going away this weekend, this is what I would pack. Would be perfect for a little coastal getaway or a quick B&B visit on the lake. 

1. An effortless white dress for dinner out. d.Ra $100
2. Black wedges that go with everything. Seychelles $95
3. So you do not have to bring a blow dryer. Bumble & Bumble Surf Spray $26
4.  J. Crew has a new mix and match tool for bikinis. Love this combo
5. A silky tank to wear for brunch. Tibi $160 
6. A breezy beach cover up that you can wear all day. ONE by Pink Stitch $84
7. A versatile bag that goes from tote to cross body. Foley & Corinna $139
8. The best denim shorts. Ever. J. Crew $79 (buy a size down)
9. Leather espadrilles for walks along the coastline. Mint & Rose $139
10. Because it is kind of the only make up you need on vacay. Nars the Multiple in Orgasm $39

Are you off to somewhere fun this weekend? I am next week and can't wait to share. 
Happy weekend. 
xo
Erin 





7.09.2014

Time for Sunnies


Besides shoes and bags, there is nothing that a lady invests in more than her shades. They truly get more wear than almost everything in your closet and serve many purposes. Part protection from the sun, part protection from the public, we all like to hide behind them a little once in awhile. So they must look good

I have worn this pair of Chanel's so much and unfortunately they have suffered way too much abuse and it is time for a new pair. I am obsessed with them. 


They do not seem that special I am sure, but the shape is my favorite I have ever come across. If you have a favorite pair (I have plenty of others that never get used) you know how I feel. And to my great sadness, Chanel does not make this exact pair anymore. Lame. 

So I am on the hunt. I love over sized and black, but may stray into the navy or tortoise spectrum. They need to be large, but not too and have a bit of a D frame or cat eye going on. Here is what I found so far. 

(Hover over for info, click to view)


The Gucci pair are closest to what I have, but those tortoise Row's are kind of amazing. they sell out fast, so might need to make a decision. Which is hard since as I said, this is quite the investment. Any favorites? What pair do you wear that you can't live without? 

xo
Erin 

7.07.2014

Brussels Sprout Salad

What a fantastic weekend. How was yours? The Fourth should always be on a Friday, it makes for the possibility to visit more people, laze around a bit, and the maximum opportunity for great food. We had friends over yesterday and opted to pick up some authentic barbecue from a local spot. But being me, something had to be homemade, so I made this simple Brussels sprout salad with crunchy toasted almonds, Parmesan, and a sweet/tart dressing. It was delicious and since most markets sell shredded Brussels sprouts now (by the lettuce), this will become another summer staple. 


Crunchy Brussels Sprout Salad with Toasted Almonds
Imperfect Polish 2014
serves 4 

1/4 cup of sliced or slivered almonds
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey 
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 small shallot, minced
salt & pepper
1/4 cup of olive oil
1/4 cup of shaved or grated Parmesan cheese
1 bag of sliced Brussels Sprouts, or 24 Brussels Sprouts sliced thinly

Place a pan or skillet on the stove over medium high heat. Put almonds in the pan and toast (do not leave alone for too long, they burn easily!) flipping a few times. Remove from heat and put in a bowl to cool once just toasted on both sides. 

Whisk together the vinegar, honey, Dijon and shallot. Drizzle in the olive oil and continue to whisk until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Dressing should be tart, but sweet. 

(Almonds and dressing can be made in advance, even a couple days before, seal and store)

Place the Brussels sprouts, cooled almonds, and cheese in a large bowl. Dress the salad (to taste, there may be more than needed) with the vinaigrette and toss to coat well. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. 

Serve and Enjoy! This holds up better than most salads since it will not wilt as quickly as lettuce. So perfect for company or to make slightly ahead for dinner time. 

xo
Erin 

7.02.2014

Summer Wine Night

I am far from a wine expert, but there have been many glasses in my life. At this age, I know what I like and I also know when it is worth it to splurge on a bottle. Which is kind of all of the time. But, there are plenty of well priced wines that you can enjoy time and time again, here is a few of my current favorites that you can find at most markets and if you are lucky, Costco. 

Lunatic Red Wine: A smooth, very drinkable red even for those that do not like them too full bodied. 
Honig Sauvignon Blanc: I have actually been to this vineyard and was psyched to see it carried my local market. It has that bite that you would expect from a sauv, but goes down smooth. Great with summer salads. 
Miraval Rose: Picked this up at Costco and it was a great discovery. Bonus, Brad & Angelina are the owners. Makes it super fancy. ha
Decoy Zinfandel: Zinfandel (no white zin!) has seriously grown on me this summer. Full bodied, but still great on a hot day. 

I have also been looking for some wine glasses for the patio that do not look plastic, which then spiraled into this outdoor place setting. Now I want everything... 

1. Chic white beaded melamine plates from Pottery Barn $17
2. Modern bamboo tiered serving tray from Nordstrom $68
3. Gold flatware is such a fun statement. West Elm $29 per set
4. So I can relax on the patio with the kids and no worry about glass. World Market $13 for set of 4
5. Block print is on my radar right now and this tablecloth is gorg. Furbish $70
6. Pretty outdoor tumblers from World Market $4 for set of 2
7. This is such a cool take on the lantern. West Elm $29 (on sale)
8. Obsessed with this copper pitcher from West Elm $29

What wine is your fav find right now? Would love to hear. 
xo
Erin 


7.01.2014

Shopping With the All American Girl

We all covet Jennifer Aniston in some ways (or all). Her style, her bod, her man, her friends, her real estate, her career, it is endless. But really she represents to us what an All American girl is. Nice (or at least we think she is), gorgeous (without trying), has a laid back approach to style and life, and doesn't seem to take anything too seriously (except causes of charity). Her style is so envied because it is so classic and has ease, which is harder to do than most think. I have pulled together three of her recent and much repeated looks so we can get inspired to be just like Jen this Summer. 

For the Beach

Jen always keeps it simple. Solid bikini and aviators

For the Weekend 


Distressed denim shorts, a classic striped tee, and the wedges she has worn everywhere.

For a Fancy Night Out 

Nothing looks cooler than a tailored blazer over a short metallic dress. Starburst earrings and some amazing strappy Jimmy Choos are the perfect accessories. 

The girl knows what she is doing and we love her for it. I hope this gives you some inspiration and some ideas for your next look. 

xo
Erin 

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