not just another friday.

A happy friday to all of you!  I guess I just wanted to take some time to share a bit.  Our vacation to Palm Springs was much needed.  We found out a few weeks ago that our first attempt at IVF did not work (after all of this).  It was heartbreaking to say the least.  That's actually the exact wording I used when a friend asked me how I was doing after our long struggle with infertility, my eventual pregnancy...then miscarriage...and our first failed IVF...I said to her "I just feel heartbroken".  So we decided that we needed some time away.  It was so amazing and so needed.  To heal our bodies and our hearts.  And now we start over.  A little hard to explain, but basically, not only did our first attempt at IVF not work, but we also have NO frozen embryos to work with.  ugh!  A very complicated and long story...the bottomline is we must start with more shots, another egg retrieval, etc.  It's been a long process, but I'm ok and ready to dive in head first again.  We will get there.  I just know it.  

And as my husband always says, "everything is going to be ok".  I wanted to post this to not only give an update but also to say a big huge thanks to all our family, friends, and readers.  It's been a long 3 years filled with a lot of heartbreak, but also a journey filled with a lot of smiles.  You have all been there for us throughout all of this and one cannot express in words how much that means.  I just wanted to say thanks for hanging in there with me. Thank you for the kind words. Thank you for letting me be honest!  Just a big huge thank you!  I wasn't sure if I'd ever share this part of our lives on this blog, but once I did, it really helped me feel a whole lot better!  So thank you for letting me be me.   For letting me be vulnerable and for being so supportive.  It means the world to G and me.

modern budget. 9.

As you can clearly see, my black & white obsession continues in today's modern budget style post.  But hey, I did manage to throw in a bit of color with that kimono.  Every piece of clothing I'm wearing here is super old.  I'm a true believer in wearing my clothes over and over again, just styling them up in different ways.  And if a piece sits in my closet for too long without wear, it's time to say good-bye.  I bought that kimono at forever21 like 4 years ago, and it's still in heavy rotation.  So, while there aren't any direct links today (with the exception of the hat), I found some nicely priced alternatives for you.  Enjoy!  And thank you Melanie for the pics.

{hat, similar $16.00}, {top is old Zara, similar $12.00}, {kimono is old forever21, similar $49.99, similar $18.80 shhhh no one will know it's a robe if you lose the belt}, {leggings are old Zara, similar $17.80}, {shoes are old Dolce Vita, similar $36.90}

hammock heaven.

You know those Mondays when you aren't quite ready to roll out of bed and start the week?!?  Well, wouldn't it be amazing to get out of bed and head into the comfort of your living room, and plop down in your hammock?  Yes please.  I'd like an indoor hammock stat, and I think this one from Anthro is gorgeous!

{home}, {anthro}

hellloooo, sequins pants.

I'm sorry, but these are a complete necessity, right?!?  That price tag is not calling my name, but those white shiny sequins sure are.  Ekkkkkk, help me find a cheaper pair, pretty please.  

{pants}

vacation style.

So, it's not very often that I find myself trying to put together outfits for warmer weather.  But when I do, it's pretty fun.  Forgoing the daily layering that I find myself doing here in the city, is definitely a welcome departure.  Below are a few outfits that I wore during our time in the desert.  I ordered this plain black dress right before our trip and I'm so happy I did.  It's simple jersey, so it can easily be described as dressed down, but the scoop neckline and low back definitely gives it an edge...soooo me!  Oh and as you can see, I'm obsessed with these floral pants.  Go get yourself a pair stat.

{black dress}, {light pink dress}, {floral pants}, {tie dye dress is old Anthro}

palm springs.

hello, hello!  Well my husband and I are back after an amazing week long vacation in Palm Springs (ohhh and a much needed stop to squeeze my nephews and niece).  We had a wonderful time staying at the Ace (I think they may have the most comfortable bed we've ever slept in) and eating our way through the town.  I had a lot of friends email me while we were away asking me about our fave spots in the desert, so I thought I'd put together a little guide for you.  Just a few hotels that we love and some yummy joints we frequent while there on vacation.  Enjoy!

To stay:

Ace Hotel: As I said, quite possibly the most comfy beds we've ever stayed in.  It's definitely got a hipster vibe to it, so it's not for everyone, but the rooms are awesome and usually pretty reasonable rates.

The Parker: This is by far my favorite hotel. The gorgeous grounds (with endless paths), make you want to just wander around all afternoon. And of course the hotel decor (designed by one of my faves, Jonathan Adler) is amazing! Sometimes you can find online deals, but you really have to search.

Korakia: This is still on our list of hotels to stay at. Everyone I know who has stayed there, can't stop talking about how wonderful it is.

To eat:

Cheeky's: Love this place for breakfast or brunch.

Mr Parker's at The Parker: Soooooo good for dinner. And shhhhhh, we once saw Drew Barrymore there.

Citron at Viceroy: We've been here for dinner and loved it.

Birba: Awesome drinks and the most delicious pizza.

{photo from my instagram}

happy weekend.

YAY, it's the weekend and a long one at that.  Hope you are all spending time with those you love.  And hopefully wherever that might be, involves a little drink by the pool. xoxo!

{pool}