FEELING...LIKE A PICNIC

The last couple of days have finally started to feel like Spring and I've made every effort to take advantage of the change in weather. I've been getting out of the office at lunch, moving meetings to nearby patios and treating myself to iced tea on my front porch. Of course, along with the warm weather come a few uninvited guests, but these insects are too cute to repel!

Shop These Items: Kate Spade Ladybug Studs // World Market Lady Bug Pillow // Anthropologie Melamine Plates // Terrain Mason Jar Cocktail Shaker // Anthropologie Linen Napkins // Kate Spade Champagne Box // West Elm Gold Flatware // World Market Purple Bug Pillow.

DIY: COLOR BLOCKED BRACELETS

Lately, I've been a little accessory obsessed. I can't seem to have enough statement necklaces and my wrists seem bare without a stack of bracelets. I love how quickly accessories can pull an outfit together or change a look completely, which is why this DIY accessory is bound to be the first of many to come. I've only worn these bracelets a handful of times, but have received so many compliments that I thought I'd share how easy they are to make yourself.

SUPPLIES:
• bangle bracelets
• embroidery thread in various colors
• super glue

1. Start by deciding on the design you would like to make and add a drop of glue where you would like your design to begin.
2. Knot your embroidery thread around the bangle making sure to cover your dot of glue in order to help hold it in place. Once you have the thread knotted in place, let it set for a minute or two before you start wrapping the remainder around the bracelet.

3. Tightly wrap your bracelet with the embroidery thread, adding little drops of glue as you go to help keep the thread in place. Try to keep most of the glue near the inside of the bangle so it is not visible when it dries.
4. Once you've finished with one color, trim the excess thread and glue the end in place. Repeat steps 1-3 for each new color you add.

Photography, design and styling by Jessica of SAS + ROSE.

LET'S EAT: CHICKEN LETTUCE CUPS

This blog is proof I love to cook, but let's be real. When it comes to cooking during the week, I am not whipping up glamorous meals or spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Although someday I might spend a little more time on meal planning, right now cooking for one, I usually go for what's quick and easy and this recipe is just that. It also makes pretty good left-overs, which is always a perk for anyone short on time.

Photography, design and styling by Jessica of SAS + ROSE.

RANDOM ACTS OF INSPIRATION / 1

As a designer, I am constantly intrigued with how things relate to one another. Whether it's how colors compliment one another, a pattern accentuates a shape or how different elements come together to create an outfit, design or collection, I can't get enough. I frequently find myself cataloging inspiration through quick snapshots of my daily life, lists of ideas and creating visual inspiration boards, which is what inspired me to start this series. Lately, I have been inspired by the juxtaposition of fashion photography with photographs of the natural environment. I mean seriously... how amazing is this model shot paired with an Icelandic volcano eruption? I'm in love.

THOUGHTS FOR A MONDAY

For the most part, this blog is dedicated to my love of color and design, tackling DIY projects and trying out new recipes. From time to time, I like to pop in and give you a peek at the things going on in my life, but ultimately my goal is to focus on creative content and hopefully inspire you to try something new. The reality is, there is a lot that goes on beyond the pages of this blog, and it was bound to be a matter of time before I wrote about another passion of mine, running.

LET'S EAT: LEMON POPPY SEED PANCAKES

As long as I can remember, breakfast has been by far my favorite meal of the day. Ok, let's be honest... every meal is my favorite, but I do have fond memories as a child of waking up at the crack of dawn, and pouring myself a large bowl of Golden Grahams, and watching cartoons as the sun came up. Now it's more likely to be a bowl of oatmeal and a chai tea that gets me going most mornings, but one thing hasn't changed: I like breakfast. On the weekends I usually like to treat myself with a more indulgent breakfast and these lemon poppy seed pancakes were so good, I had to share them with you. I've been on a bit of a lemon kick lately and these pancakes really hit the spot. To be honest, they were probably the best pancakes I've ever had. Actually, maybe I shouldn't reserve these just for the weekends...

Photography, design and styling by Jessica of SAS + ROSE.

FEELING...SUNNY!

I think it's safe to say there's no shortage of bright colors around here, and with Spring upon us, things are finally starting to brighten up outside too. As much as I love a good cloudy day, there's something about sunny skies that instantly puts you in a good mood, makes you walk with a little spring in your step and has you craving drinks on a patio. Here are a few ways to brighten up with this happy hue!

Shop These Items: TopShop Sleeveless Striped Shell // Rifle Paper Co. Hello Sunshine Print // Yellow Hunter Boots // Kim Dulaney Lemonade Necklace // Nail Art Inspiration // TopShop Nail Art Pen // Forever21 Patent Rectangle Belt // Kate Spade Saturday Mug.

DIY: RUBBER BAND STAMP STATIONERY

Among my weaknesses for bright nail polish, baked goods and anything polka-dot, cute stationery ranks right up there when it comes to things I can't seem to have enough of. I am not sure if my college internship at a custom invitation store is to blame, but regardless, I always like to have cute stationery on hand for thank you's or quick little notes. This DIY stationery is a fairly easy project with limitless design possibilities and I would love to see what you come up with. Comment below and let me know if you try it!

SUPPLIES:
• rubber bands
• wooden blocks
• super glue
• X-acto knife
• ink in your color of choice
• pre-cut blank stationery or note cards
• cutting mat (optional)

1. Begin by deciding on the design you would like to make for your stamp and cut your rubber band accordingly. I wanted to create a diagonal stripe pattern, so I made an angled cut through my rubber band and applied glue to the backside. Note: I only made one cut through the rubber band and will trim the rubber band to size in Step 3.

2. Adhere the rubber band to the wooden block and firmly hold in place for approximately 30 seconds. Be sure to get enough glue near the edges of the rubber band, so the ends do not curl up.

3. After a minute or two, once the rubber band is securely in place, flip your stamp over and use an X-acto knife to trim the excess. I found this method to be easier than trying to cut my rubber band into small pieces before gluing it to the wooden block. Since rubber bands are round, I found when I trimmed the rubber band into small pieces they were harder to work with. The rubber band constantly wanted to curl up, so by cutting the rubber band once, and gluing it to the wooden block before trimming it to size, it was easier to get it to lay flat. Ultimately, just use what works best for you and the design you are making!

4. Repeat Steps 1-3 to complete your design. Once your design is complete, let your stamp dry for a few hours before use. If necessary, flip your stamp over with the rubber facing down and stack heavy books or another heavy object on top in order to firmly adhere the rubber bands in place as the glue dries.

5. Lastly, use your new stamp to create your very own customized stationery!

Photography, design and styling by Jessica of SAS + ROSE.