Top Five

I'm a newsletter fiend. You know the opening scene in You've Got Mail, when Meg Ryan waits for Greg Kinnear to leave and she runs to her computer anticipating the sound of an email from Joe? And then the Cranberries come on and it's a wonderful, beautiful day?! That's the level of excitement I have for Newsletter Friday. That is because I typically wait until Friday morning when my inbox is full of newsletters. I head into work early, post work related content to social media, make myself another cup of tea, sit back and relax and open one or two newsletters. After a busy Friday, I can't wait to get home, take a bubble bath and slip into fresh bed sheets and continue reading. Are you into newsletters? I'm so curious, what are you reading? 

The Newsette

Lily Lines (from The Lily)

Girls Night In

The Shatner Chatner

The Skimm

  

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Lately

Break out that navy bag for spring.

For Saturdays when you don't want to put on a full face of make-up. 

On Sundays, I mask. 

I live for Sarah's illustrations. 

I am completely consumed by The Bright Sessions, a fictional podcast you should be listening to if you're not already. 

The new spot in town.

When you are in a wanderlust mood.

Weekend attire includes blush slip-ons. 

A bag at my desk, my car and at home.

Gift Guide: Part IV

Brighten up his and everyone else's least favorite day of the week with a sweatshirt that perfectly captures our Monday feels. 

Seriously, who doesn't love this skincare line?  

For the bookworm that he is. 

He'll be playing with his new gadget for the rest of the day. 

For the new record collector. 

For the traveler, he will love this globe lamp. 

So he and his wife can watch movies outdoors on their patio. 

Life Lately

As usual, A New Day just keeps getting better and better. Have you seen all their fantastic sweaters and coats. I'm especially into this draping turtle neck sweater. 

Part of my mission for next year is to take better care of myself. I have no excuse, I'm out of school and while work seems to be hectic and busy often, I still should make time for myself. To get back into tune with my mind, body and self, I'm starting yoga for the second time. 

I get the bags and the discoloration big time under my times, this jade roller helps so much.

I don't know about you but I have had my Christmas Playlist playing since Thanksgiving. 

My favorite Christmas book ever.

This ornament. 

Everyday is a mask day in my house, these are must haves. 

For the traveler, gypsey, foodie, music junkie and those who want to slow down and appreciate everything in your life, you will love Absent Minded.

It's soup weather and all I can think of is Matzah Ball Soup. If you haven't been to Sherman's Deli in the desert, than you have to put it on your must to do list for when you are in town.

Things I'm Into This Week

A few nights ago, I finally settled in to watch the first Christmas movie of the season. And even though Netflix produced it, The Christmas Prince is basically their version of a Hallmark holiday movie. Filled with cliches and situations that would never happen in the real world, (fans of The Princess Diaries, The Prince and Me, What A Girl Wants will love this movie) I let my mind take The Christmas Prince, for what it's worth, a terrible and utterly cheesy holiday romantic comedy. 

I saw this shirt floating around the insta-feed of my bookish instagram account. And now it's mine. An excellent gift for your book hoarding friend or family member :)

I can't get enough of these tabby cat browser backgrounds. 

 I have been following Julie Houts for months now on Instagram, she is by far my favorite person/illustrator ever. I also bought her book recently, I was practically in tears from laughing so hard the other night reading it. I promise, she's worth following. 

And if I haven't written enough about Messy Nessy Chic, she now has short episodes of her 'Don't be a Tourist' series. There's only a few out at the moment but they are totally worth watching. Since she's known for the path not taken, there's so much to learn about Paris and France from Vanessa. 

Gift Guides: Part III

What man doesn't need a new pair of socks, at least these are cool! 

With your Hamilton (the musical) obsession, he wants to be in the know. 

He always needs the newest gadget. 

For the reader he is, he'll love this book subscription.

He has an addiction to toffee. 

So everyone can chip in on his next vacation. 

Gift Guide: Part II

Binge, relax and mask.

To add to her crazy obsession of loafers.

She'll want this coffee table book. 

She loves every thing that is rose scented.

A new and updated vase for the kitchen. 

For her sweet tooth. 

Pretty bowls to add to her kitchen collection. 

She'll love this faux fur coat. 

30 Things I've Learned

I really wanted to make this post in video form so that would be a little more personal but with the holidays and work, there was just not enough time. In thirty years of living, these are some of the most important things I've learned along the way. What are the mot valuable lessons you've learned in your life? The most important one on this list that I always try to remember, 'Be nice, even when it's hard.'  

The Librarian Suggests

Since I've been listening to Hamilton nonstop all week, these are a few of my favorite soundtracks :)

Fall To Do's

A few things to try out this autumn season, what are your plans?

Check out the local pumpkin patch or harvest festival.

Make your favorite soup recipe. 

Go crazy with the decorations. 

Make your Halloween costume.

Attend a book club. 

Host a horror movie marathon. 

Take a scenic drive for some leaf peeping. 

Check out the closest state park. 

Lately

This workout shirt for exercising or dancing like you just don't care.

Cream that cures everything and gives you baby soft skin and a highlighter every girl needs.

These fruity chocolate covered snacks make for the perfect desert or midday pick me up.

After nearly bumping into my favorite boy band crush from yester-year, I've been listening to a few old tracks.

A new podcast, mug for reading (or watching) movies to kick off your halloween movie-thon.

The prettiest bralette that selling out quickly, make sure to check out this new line.

Top Five

I typically don't like the look or the chaos of a million apps on my phone. There's no swiping through five different pages of apps, I keep them all on one page and organize them by type - so the life of a librarian. I've been recently introduced to some while others have remained favorites for awhile. What are you five favorite phone apps?

Orai: I have never felt comfortable with public speaking and then I became librarian where I coordinate with many community leaders, I speak at schools and other community functions, not the mention the five story times and other events that go on at the library. And then I started a podcast, where I feel very self conscious, but it's fun. Orai helps you improve your speech, I don't say um as much as I use too and I love it!

Trip Advisor: Not so much for going out of town but for finding things to do in my hometown. 

Goodreads: A social media outlet for readers. Create book lists of all kinds, reading challenges and share your favorites with friends. I'm constantly receiving recommendations and tuning in for a quick author chat. 

WTForecast: A hilarious approach at providing you the most up to date weather. Since I have a closeted obsession with the weather (and weather movies), I thank a family friend for introducing me to this fun app. 

Oxford English Dictionary: Because I'm a bibliophile, it helps to keep a dictionary on hand. Or you know, you're just a nerd and like the whole 'word of the day' challenge and like to impress friends with your expansive vocabulary.

Life Lately

I don't know if you've been to Target recently but there's a new clothing brand, A New Day and I love everything about it. From sweaters, flannel shirts, pleated skirts to purses, every item is worth buying. This past week, I had to get myself a few new outfits for the fall season. 

Seriously, I can't wait for this book to arrive in the mail. 

I've been wearing Egyptian Musk for the last two weeks and I stumbled across an old favorite. 

A newsletter, a podcast and show I cannot stop talking or thinking about. I'm thinking I need to pick up a copy of Big Little Lies (the book) from the library so I can get even more details. 

A projector for screening movies and tv shows outside on my patio. 

Even though I'm not in school, I had to get a few things for back to school shopping.

(like these colorful papermate pens, a new binder and dividers)

The perfect snack during the day!

 

Summer To Do's

A few things to try out this summer, what are your plans?

Try a new s'more recipe. 

Make a day trip to the beach and hit up the local acquarium. 

Have an early date night at the park. 

Bring back the art of snail mail with finding a summer pen pal. 

Get started knitting your own blanket for the fall. 

Head out to the desert to watch the meteor shower (8/12)

Try a new ice cream recipe.

Start a new television series.

Life Lately

Last month I picked up this book thinking what a great cover, little did I know it would become my adult version of Eat, Pray, Love. And I only say that because I was introduced to Liz Gilbert's book as sophomore in high school. My copy of Material Girl, Mystical World is already dogeared and filled with post-its! What are you reading? 

When I got back from Europe, I went through Madeline phase and came across this collectible item. As I started searching deeper, I found a treasure trove of storybook characters and found another childhood favorite. 

Anyone who knows me well, knows I'm a Kate Spade addict. I own everything from stationary to books, plates, mugs and bags. These mugs are everything and I pretty much transport them from work to home on the regular! 

When I'm searching for new beats to listen too, I turn to Sarah Tolzmann. We speak the same language when it comes to music :)

If you were a fan of The Toast and own your copy of Texts from Jane Eyre, then you need to check out Mallory's latest endeavor, Dear Prudence. A somewhat new podcast that I've just been introduced too. I think you'll be pretty happy with this podcast. 

When it comes to Mexican Food, nowhere in the desert beats Taqueria Sinaloense. Whenever you're in Palm Desert just look for this small hole in wall place. I've been eating here for years, literally nothing compares to the authentic food and the incredibly sweet staff at this restaurant. 

I started paying attention to H&M bralettes a few weeks ago and now I want them all! 

A highlighter and gel cream that is a must for dewy healthy looking skin. 

My cousin got me on this ice cream months ago, I don't feel so bad indulging in this soy goodness! 

 

Life Lately

I'm reading the most exhilarating children's series with my tween book club at the moment. The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann creates a world similar to Hunger Games and Harry Potter but does a fantastic job with the detail and character development. If you're looking for a book for your middle schooler to read over the summer, this is it!!!

I grew up loving the animated movie of Anastasia and would spend my entire Easter break freshman year of college researching her family out of boredom and the school being closed. It's so funny looking back, there were clear signs that I was destined to being a librarian. So, if you're not in New York, you can listen to the Broadway recording on iTunes.

For the last month or so, I've had a serious craving for shrimp (well any fish) tacos. 

My coworker introduced me to a new podcast, Sword and Scale. Outside of Serial, this is one of the best out there and I'm just now coming across it despite it being out for the last four years. If you're into true crime and pyschology, I promise this one will not dissappoint. 

I can't remember how I came across The Blonde Abroad, but if you're into travel, you have to follow this girl. She talks about how to travel on a budget and why she left her career to become a travel vlogger. She's even worked with the Travel Channel! Can I just have your life please!!!

A few weeks ago, it was restaurant week here in the desert and my guy took me out for french food. With some wine, excellent food and quite the desert, I'm already planning on going back again. 

I've been using the "Yes To" brand on and off over the last couple years and now that they have masks, they are some of my favorites. Take a nice relaxing bath, listen to some music and soak in a cool calming mask and bubbles. 

Stila came out with these metallic glittery eye-shadows and they are gorgeous. Since my sister watches beauty youtubers and knows all the big time makeup artists, I never hear any of them talk about Stila products and I want to know why. I've been wearing Stila for years and it's by far one of my favorite makeup brands!

Maybe because I've been listening to You Must Remember This, a podcast that focuses on women in the entertainment industry at the turn of the 20th century, I've been checking out old films from the library on the regular. This week, I'm watching Swing Time with Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. 

Bando came out with these short sleeve sweatshirt tops and I love them so much. Hurry and get yours because these babies sell out fast. They're beyond comfy and obviously ridiculously cute. 

A Few Things For Summer

I have to say the off the shoulders one piece is one of the most flattering swimsuits trends. 

Giant heart towels are a must.

A summer long book club, starting with And We're Off...

Because straw hats and purses are not popular at all this summer season :)

Even if you're not spending your summer at the Hamptons, you can at least feel like you are!

Comfy and cute sandals. 

Always, always choose Quay, my sister officially converted me.

Summer Night Routine

My sister started opening the front door in the evenings a few months ago and now it's one thing I look forward to when I get off work and head home. We'll keep it open practically until we're ready for bed.

Actually make dinner and get in the habit of making sweets from scratch.

Take a relaxing bath, soak in some bubbles and wear my favorite masks.

Watch a few inspirational videos and save some words of wisdom. 

I've gotten really into art journaling.

I also plan on working on more diy projects.  

Settle in and maybe fall asleep to reading or watching a favorite film.

I'll do some variation of Vinyasa yoga right before I hit the sheets. 

How do you spend your summer evenings when you get off work? 

Top 5

When it comes to wine, I am a "Rosé All Day" kind of girl. At a reasonable price these five choices still taste oh so good. At only $15, Whispering Angel is ranked some of the best rosé out there. And if you're a Sugarfina fan, then you know they're infamous gummies are infused with a little Whispering Angel. Now that summer is just around the corner, what's your favorite pink wine? 

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Life Lately

If there was one article of clothing I was impressed by on my trip, it was the coats everyone was wearing. Since the French are impeccable when it comes to fashion, I was ecstatic when I found my very own. It wasn't necessarily camel color, it was olive green. And it certainly didn't break the bank but I was happy with my purchase. A huge thank you to my dear friend Mags for taking us to the market in Notting Hill.  Next time can you work on getting at home in Notting Hill?

If there was one stop I was over the moon about it was getting to explore Shakespeare and Co while staying in Paris. After reading the history about the bookstore, I wanted to spend the rest of my life in the infamous little book nook. As soon as my books were stamped, I felt like the luckiest girl in Paris!

Almost a month ago, a friend and coworker introduced me to this podcast about a son reading his father's new work of fiction, an erotic novel. The podcast is dedicated to reading chapter with a few friends and talking about the content and what was going through his father's mind while writing this series. Apparently season two there are a few celebrities like Elijah Wood and others!!!

This pizza joint recently opened a location near my apartment. And even though it's been a staple in Palm Springs for years, I've never been. Needless to say, it will become a regular hang out spot!!! 

I have been waiting for Masters of None to return and has it! Well I've only watched a few episodes, I've been trying tackle this jet-lag but I can't seem to shake it. Once I've finally caught up, I plan on binging the show. Does anyone else love Aziz as much as I do?! 

I read The Count of Monte Cristo years ago for a high school english class and I consider it one of my favorite books of all time. When I found myself trying to decided what to buy in Shakespeare and Co, it only seemed right to get Dumas's classic and get it stamped. I'm now listening to it on audio. Have you seen the Jim Cavezal version, I love it!!! 

I didn't realize until my first shower that I forgot to bring soap with me. Luckily, in our first Air Bnb, Le Petit Marseillais was pretty much my only option. I ended up buying a few different scents in the pharmacy while we stayed in Paris. If you have dry and sensitive skin you'll love it and if you like subtle scented soap, this is a winner.

Since Madeline was another book I bought when I was searching in Shakespeare and Co, I kind of became nostalgic for my favorite brave little red head. When I got back stateside, I bought the doll to add to the collection of book characters I have at the library and found the Department 56 house for a reasonable price and got it for myself. 

And when it comes to food, I pretty much ate the same thing everywhere, some version of tomato and mozzerella with pesto.  Whether it was a sandwich or salad it was the only thing I could nibble on since I was feeling under the weather when we got there. Also, I went bananas at Laduree :)