tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12424139456552543492024-03-13T12:32:37.821-05:00Happy in HeelsMusings on life, style and the pursuit of happiness {in heels}Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-72853299865997727942013-10-15T13:16:00.000-05:002013-10-15T13:16:10.108-05:00Rainy Weather, Reflective MoodWe've had rain and generally overcast weather here these past couple days. Secretly (or maybe not so secretly) there's something I just love about weather like this. Over the past 24 hours I've found myself listening to classical music on the radio and sipping coffee/tea to keep me warm non-stop. It puts me in a nice and reflective mood...and even though I'm working in my office (as opposed to being curled up on the couch with a good book) there's something kind of peaceful about rainy days that makes me content. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/d0/6e/c9/d06ec9fbe051d424b756fb505837d440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt=".“If I were rain, That joins sky and earth that otherwise never touch, Could I join two hearts as well?” ― Tite Kubo," border="0" class="pinImage" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/d0/6e/c9/d06ec9fbe051d424b756fb505837d440.jpg" style="height: 453px; margin-top: 0px; padding: 40px 0px; width: 300px;" width="264" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/371687775466843571/"><em>Picture Courtesy of Pinterest - Link Here </em></a><br />
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Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-19531977421401897442013-10-09T11:38:00.001-05:002013-10-09T11:38:33.604-05:00A Moment of GratitudeLife certainly has a way of happening in its own perfect way, at the exact moment it should. Hard to believe how much my world has changed over the course of the year. I met and got engaged to the love of my life, started a new (dream) career and through it all, I can honestly say that I have never felt more myself. How blessed I am. <br />
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With the hustle bustle of life, I find it's tricky to stay connected with everyone as often as I'd like to, and as someone who places their relationships with family and friends at the top of the importance scale, I felt it important to reclaim a venue to connect. Snippets of ideas, thoughts, updates, wedding plans and career moments. Happy in Heels feels like a great little corner to do just that. <br />
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I took a moment this morning to breath in a moment of gratitude. Life is good. <br />
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XO,<br />Megan<br />
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Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-39683961399892306202013-04-23T13:17:00.001-05:002013-04-23T13:17:47.094-05:00Spring CleaningI'm a girl all about the goal-setting. It helps me to be clear and focus on what I'm looking to accomplish!<br />
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Spring Cleaning is a personal goal I hope to tackle this coming weekend. With nice weather happening I'm hoping to open the windows and clean, clean, clean! I'd be the first to admit that my linen closet needs a top to bottom overhaul at the moment. This is the main area of focus of my cleaning efforts, but also on the docket are the following:<br />
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<li>Deep cleaning the floors - both hardwood and carpeting</li>
<li>Window washing</li>
<li>Clean out fridge and freezer</li>
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I've heard that to inspire progress, it's often a good idea to visualize the results and environment once the goal is complete. How does it look? What does it feel like? I envision a clutter free, freshly scrubbed environment where I'm calm and relaxed. :)<br />
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Do you have any great Spring Cleaning rituals? Any good tips for me?<br />
Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-27577636333464953832013-04-17T13:34:00.001-05:002013-04-17T13:34:13.106-05:00Florida RecapBonita Springs turned out to be every bit as relaxing and fun as I could have hoped! We had gorgeous weather the entire trip (84 degrees and sunny basically every day) and enjoyed not having much of an agenda at all!<br />
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We stayed at the Trianon in Bonita Springs; it is located in a Promenade of various shops and restaurants. We loved being able to walk to most all of our meals - and enjoyed the Lakehouse Restaurant adjacent to our hotel. <br />
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Our favorite spot would likely be Roy's; located just around the corner of our hotel, they boasted a wonderful $6 Happy Hour that we indulged in a few times. Our bartenders were the best! We also loved Doc's (Katie! Thought of you!) <br />
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Each day we enjoyed coffee and breakfast on the patio of our hotel - probably a favorite memory of the trip (what a treat to just sit, relax and drink my coffee in nice weather!) We then drove about 7 minutes to the ocean, went for a morning walk on the beach and then layed out in the sun. We swam in the ocean a few times, saw some dolphins, enjoyed great wine and a few Corona's and Margs, too. <br />
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I feel blessed to have taken this trip with my mom. Especially with life moving and shifting at such a fast pace right now, it is a trip I'll remember forever. And I hope to come back to Bonita soon!<br />
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Below is one of my favorite pictures from our trip - I think it sums up our vacation quite nicely. I'll post more in days to come. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ryPfD-3zmG0/UW7p-Wrg9lI/AAAAAAAAAFM/jPzOSGo-V-Y/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ryPfD-3zmG0/UW7p-Wrg9lI/AAAAAAAAAFM/jPzOSGo-V-Y/s400/photo+(2).JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset at Bonita Bay!</td></tr>
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Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-38097217267084511712013-04-08T08:57:00.001-05:002013-04-08T08:57:19.178-05:00Florida, here I come!Well the time is nearly here for Florida! Cannot wait to soak up the sun (pool side, beachside...), indulge in some fun cocktails and good wine and explore some of the local cusine. We'll be in Bonita Springs, which is right on the Gulf and very near to other fun spots, like Naples, Marco Island and Fort Myers (where we're flying into.) So, we're excited to explore a bunch of different areas, namely their beaches :)<br />
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On My Agenda?<br />
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Not a whole lot specifically. I'm fortunate to have a mother that likes to roll with whatever comes her way. I'm more of the planner, and she balances that out nicely - thus we travel well together. I plan to read a lot while laying out in the sun (my favorite past time, which lately, I haven't had much time to indulge in.) Just planning to relax, go for walks along the ocean with my Mom, do a lot of reading and perhaps some writing, take some good pictures and collect some seashells for my guy (per his special request.) :)<br />
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Looking forward to sharing some fun pictures upon my return!<br />
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On the packing front, things are almost all together. I'm bringing the usual trip items: some notables include several sundresses, coral nail polish, some fun sun products from Victoria's Secret that I treated myself to and of course my trusty Kindle. :)<br />
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Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-80887449505315610712013-04-01T11:43:00.003-05:002013-04-01T11:44:38.115-05:00Easter Weekend!This Easter weekend involved pretty much all of what makes me love this time of year. Friday night was spent out for drinks and sushi with some special people. I had a Sweet Potato Veggie Sushi that knocked my socks off! <br />
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Saturday, I did some shopping for my upcoming trip to Florida with Mom (Next Tuesday, I'll be in 85 degree weather in a swimsuit! So excited!) and also purchased a few new Spring items for work (I'm loving the mint and coral items out right now.) Saturday evening, my Mom and I went out to St. Paul for dinner and Mass downtown St. Paul. The church we go to is beautiful - full of tradition and celebration, candles and beautiful music. I love spending mass cuddled up in the pew with my Grandma; we're 2 peas in a pod (seriously so much a like!) so it warms my heart to spend quality time with her. We are a pretty feisty duo when together, lots of laughing and fun - my Mom just shakes her head ;)<br />
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Sunday, my parents hosted a lovely brunch. We ate so well, per usual, with delicious Homemade Spinach Stratta, Waffles and Coffee Cake, among other delectable treats. It was lovely having Sydney join the mix; she is quite the hit with my family, and lifts right in! Love her so much, so very special to share the day with her as well. <br />
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As promised, I supplied the Blushing Mimosas - they were delicious! Quite sweet, but I used a dry Champagne which cut through the sugar a bit - what a treat they were! As I made the juice mix separate from the booze, I got to thinking about ideas for fun summer cocktails using the same mix with different liquours - Vodka and Gin both came to mind as refreshing potential options. Might have to do a little taste test ;)<br />
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I hope you and yours had a relaxing, sunny and beautiful holiday.<br />
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Spring has Sprung! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u3ToIvCy6R4/UVm3v_faCCI/AAAAAAAAAE8/4yUb9J3h9Z8/s1600/SydMegsEaster.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u3ToIvCy6R4/UVm3v_faCCI/AAAAAAAAAE8/4yUb9J3h9Z8/s320/SydMegsEaster.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Here's Sydney and I in our Easter brights, enjoying our Blushing Mimosas.</em></td></tr>
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<br />Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-85383249092104744682013-03-26T08:59:00.001-05:002013-03-26T08:59:13.253-05:00 Tuesday Thoughts - Easter WeekAs I mentioned in my last post, Easter week always reminds me that spring is right around the corner. Beyond the welcomed shift in temperature, however, I love how holidays serve as staples in my year. In a world of busy schedules, shifting priorities and the ever-evolving "things" that go on in life, Holidays serve as a constant. For each family holidays mean something a little different: for mine, it means spending time together, enjoying lovely meals coupled with great wine, church and relaxation.<br />
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My brother just moved to Madison and unfortuantley due to starting a new job/moving into a new place will not be able to make the trip home this year (he just moved last week.) My best friend Sydney, however, will be joining the festivities! <br />
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My cocktail contribution this year will be these lovely "Blushing Mimosas" (we'll have classic Mimosas available and flowing as well, but thought these looked too good to pass up.) <br />
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The recipe and lovely photo are courtesy of <a href="http://guestofaguest.com/holidays/keep-it-classy-this-easter-sunday-with-these-10-mimosa-recipes&slide=1">this site.</a> I just discovered the website, but it seems fun! <br />
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<img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-863061 alignleft" height="320" src="http://guestofaguest.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/blushingmimosa.jpg" style="border: 1px solid rgb(206, 209, 229); padding: 4px;" title="Easter Mimosas" width="320" /><br />
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Happy Easter!<br />
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Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-31424500032966994332013-03-25T10:09:00.000-05:002013-03-25T10:09:00.927-05:00Spring AheadAlthough it is still quite chilly outside, I'm getting excited for Spring. Easter week always serves as a reminder that warm weather is on the horizon - and I am ready.<br />
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Here are just a couple warm weather festivities on the horizon that I'm looking forward to...Spring and Summer, here we come!<br />
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<strong>Local Vineyard Visits</strong> <br />
Minnesota boasts some lovely vineyards. Plans are already in the works to visit a few of them. I love exploring new wines, stocking up on new and old favorites and soaking up the gorgeous scenery.<br />
<a href="http://cache.carlsonhotels.com/chi/images/hotels/MNREDWIN/0GALLERY/VisitFalconerVineyard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cache.carlsonhotels.com/chi/images/hotels/MNREDWIN/0GALLERY/VisitFalconerVineyard.jpg" height="212" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 58px;" width="320" /></a><br />
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<strong>The Lakes</strong> <br />
Growing up in surrounded by so many lakes, my summer leisure time tends to revolve around water. I love spending time walking around Lake Calhoun {pictured below} in Uptown, Minneapolis - and rounding out the day with dinner at one of my favorite spots ever - Amore Victoria. For my college girls - kind of cool backstory on Amore Victoria - the family that owns this restaurant also owns Victoria's in Green Bay! Lovely homemade italian food right in the heart of Uptown. Boasting a wonderful rooftop - it makes for a great end to a Spring/Summer day!<br />
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Hope everyone has a great Monday!<br />
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<strong></strong><br />Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-47139863844282608112012-12-28T12:58:00.000-06:002012-12-28T12:58:22.887-06:00Happy New Year!Greetings and Happy New Year! I hope everyone is enjoying the last bits of 2012. I find the start of a new year always provides a clean slate and great opportunity for fresh beginnings. It always serves as a great excuse for reflection and goal setting - 2 of my favorite things (Nerdy? Perhaps but that's just me!) <br />
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<em>Looking</em> forward leads to <em>moving </em>forward, and as such, I embrace this time of year as an opportunity to set new plans in motion, to make 2013 amazing. <br />
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One major endeavor I look forward to tackling is the home office; maintaining a clean, clutter-free (or at least clutter-light) system! I. Heart. Organization.<br />
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So to inspire me...found this photo. I love the books, greenery and vision boards of nice imagery.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="360" src="http://thefinancialite.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/bedford-desk.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Photo from: </em><a href="http://thefinancialite.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/bedford-desk.jpg"><em>http://thefinancialite.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/bedford-desk.jpg</em></a></td></tr>
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Looking forward to recapping the holidays (lots of fun on the blog docket; a couple teasers - delish Bailey's Martinis, Holidazzle Parade/Girlfriend Xmas, New Makeup Reviews...just to name a few!) and kicking off 2013 with fun posts. Stay tuned! Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-84705243463882057962012-11-27T10:27:00.003-06:002012-11-27T10:30:45.901-06:00A Few of My Favorite Winter Things...Baby, it's getting cold outside! As winter approaches, I gladly embrace festive red manicures and Cinnamon tea with open arms {or hands, rather.}<br />
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I'm loving OPI's "Bestille My Heart" for my nails at the moment; I love red nails - red in general dresses things up a bit, and also serves as its own kind of neutral when paired with basics. <br />
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My tea selection is an all-time favorite: Good Earth's Sweet and Spicy Tea. It has a full bodied sweet cinnamon flavor with a kick of spice. Such a treat; I enjoy it all year.<br />
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Cozy and comforting all around.<br />
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Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-92040138761401148202012-11-26T09:34:00.000-06:002012-11-26T09:37:31.826-06:00Giving Thanks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy Monday After Thanksgiving! After a long weekend full of delicious food and drinks coupled with wonderful family time, it's back to reality! We had a great holiday. My parents hosted and my extended family came over to celebrate. In the true fashion of my family, there was a lot of laughter, story telling, plenty of good wine, holiday jazz music and big hugs. I'm thankful for all of those things being a constant in my life. </div>
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To kick off the holiday, my brother Mike made us some of his famous and amazing Bloody Marys. They. Are. Spectacular. And strong. Haha. It was a great way to kick off the day of festivities. Below is a photo for your viewing pleasure. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Mike's Famous Bloodies</em></td></tr>
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<br />Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-80795556439661027742012-11-19T16:44:00.002-06:002012-11-19T16:44:38.834-06:00I'll Bring the Cocktails...I'm blessed to come from a family where the men love to do the cooking. My dad and brother are both wonderful cooks. My dad's love for cooking has grown over the years; our family members eagerly anticipate the wonderful holiday feasts he prepares...myself certainly no exception! <br />
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Although "But Dad...seriously...what can I bring?" is a good problem to have, I still love to cook and entertain myself, so I like to think up fun ways to contribute. <br />
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This year, I've determined that with the help of my bartender brother, we'll contribute the fun cocktails :) <br />
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Upon a quick google search for fun ideas, I stumbled upon this blog, called The Kitchn (<a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/drinks">http://www.thekitchn.com/drinks</a>) - their "Drink" section is so fun! I plan to make at least one recipe. I do love a good Manhattan...so there's always that. We're also quite big fans of "Hot Tottie" varietals in my family as well...so perhaps a "Hot Apple Spice Hot Tottie" for after dinner consumption would be in order.<br />
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I love food/drink blogs with visual aids to get me inspired...I will certianly post my creations after the holiday!<br />
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Cheers!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="2012_08_03-Manhattan02.jpg" class="mt-image-center" height="295" src="http://i-cdn.apartmenttherapy.com/uimages/kitchen/2012_08_03-Manhattan02.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 20px; text-align: center;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recipe for "My Mother's Manhattan" from The Kitchn <br />
(<a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/what-did-your-parents-drink-my-mothers-manhattan-recipe-the-10-minute-happy-hour-175142">http://www.thekitchn.com/what-did-your-parents-drink-my-mothers-manhattan-recipe-the-10-minute-happy-hour-175142</a>)</td></tr>
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Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-8460634757010589342012-11-16T09:53:00.001-06:002012-11-16T09:56:57.088-06:00Happy Friday!Happy Friday and {almost} weekend! <br />
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Hope everyone has fun plans; tonight I'm heading out for a night out at a favorite Irish Pub. Tomorrow I'll be doing some cleaning and housework - so far that is all that's on the docket! I also have a friend in town from Florida, so hoping to see her as well at some point! <br />
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A birthday post will follow soon, but thought I'd share a picture from last week at Cafe Maude. We enjoyed my favorite things: live jazz, great cocktails and time with my beautiful friends. <br />
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Last weekend served as a lovely reminder of how truly blessed I am. Everything from my amazingly generous and thoughtful colleauges, to getting to hear my friend Kate's sweet baby Nina say "hi" to me over the phone for the first time, to all of the Facebook posts and then time with friends and family...needless to say my heart is full and happy. :)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3bE7ue4CzTk/UKZhYtnXyfI/AAAAAAAAAEI/BeyxHAI54fc/s1600/430697_801750600057_1329186391_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="255" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3bE7ue4CzTk/UKZhYtnXyfI/AAAAAAAAAEI/BeyxHAI54fc/s400/430697_801750600057_1329186391_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Kari, Mal, Ally and I at Cafe Maude in Minneapolis</em></td></tr>
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Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-60570132358408047212012-11-15T09:12:00.000-06:002012-11-15T09:12:22.377-06:00Inspired in Heels<br />
This morning I'd like to start a new Thursday morning post tradition: I'm dubbing it Inspired in Heels Thursday!<br />
<br />Each Thursday morning, I will choose a favorite topic and share some favorite quotes that tie in. The first week's quotes are all about Taking a Chance/Risk Taking. I love to be inspired and know that my friends do as well...so I thought this would be a fun way to incorporate this passion into my blogging experience!<br />
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This first "theme" is one close to my heart...as it's not in my nature to take risks. But I know how important it is and can be and therefore do intentionally try to go out on a limb as often as possible. When I look to the best things that have happened in my life thusfar (my relationships, deciding where to go to school, new career ventures, etc.), they've all involved a pretty significant degree of risk in one way or another. <br />
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"It's not because things are difficult that we dare not venture. It's because we dare not venture that they are difficult." -<em>- Seneca</em><br />
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"Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far it is possible to go." <em>-- T.S. Eliot</em><br />
<em></em><br />
"Go out on a limb. That's where the fruit is." <em> -- Jimmy Carter</em> <br />
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"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor, catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." <em>-- Mark Twain</em><br />
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"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." --<em>Wayne Gretsky</em> <br />
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<em>What risks in your life are you grateful to have taken?</em><br />
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Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-46733889329090422382012-11-14T08:15:00.002-06:002012-11-14T08:17:29.268-06:00Gearing Up for Holiday Cheer<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
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Crazy to believe the holiday season is fast approaching! I celebrated my birthday this weekend {recap post to follow soon - so much fun} and capped the weekend off with a little shopping for the week.<br />
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I planned on just getting groceries and supplies for an art project I'm working on for my living room {another teaser of a post to come!} - but I came out with holiday decor and my favorite seasonal coffee from Trader Joe's - their Wintry Blend. I'm a Trader Joe's nut - I just love the people and the products. And this coffee is on my Top 10 of TJ's for sure. <br />
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Infused with natural spices, this is like the holiday season in a cup. Yum. Great with Vanilla Creamer or just on its own...I look forward to the next couple of months with this delightful treat each morning!<br />
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Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-67682234921458975042012-11-13T20:49:00.000-06:002012-11-13T20:55:33.371-06:00Greetings! Welcome to the freshly face-lifted Happy In Heels! I know I've been M.I.A. for quite some time, but I'm ready to get back into the swing of blogging! <br />
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It has been a busy several months...and I look forward to what is ahead! With the holidays upon us, I'm certain there will be plenty of fun posts to share...<br />
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Looking forward to sharing thoughts, ideas, inspirations and recaps with you.<br />
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xo.Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-71198982241786212282012-07-11T13:45:00.002-05:002012-07-11T13:52:39.702-05:00Bedroom Inspiration<span style="font-family: inherit;">Well, I'm excited to report that the quilt my mom is making for my bed is nearly complete! I'm a very structured person and tend to tackle projects better once I have something to build the plan around. Does that make sense? I just read that and feel like it might not. Oh well. :) In any event, this quilt will serve as the nucleus of my new bedroom; as the focal point, I plan to draw everything from the color palate to the overall "feel" of the room from it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I found this picture on what has fast become one of my favorite new blogs called French Country Cottage (frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com.) I <em>la-ove </em>her style, and have started living vicariously through her chic cottage life. It has been fun. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The picture serves as inspiration for my new room; the quilt on the bed mimics the style and even colors of my quilt, so it was exciting to find. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2012/02/room-full-of-sunshine-inspirations.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f">
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</o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></v:shapetype></span></a><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2012/02/room-full-of-sunshine-inspirations.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f">
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</o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></v:shapetype></span></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NAGE3LbI3eA/TzvP4SCkcSI/AAAAAAAAKuA/IGehVYguy3k/s1600/bedroom1-de.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NAGE3LbI3eA/TzvP4SCkcSI/AAAAAAAAKuA/IGehVYguy3k/s400/bedroom1-de.jpg" width="312" /></a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Link to photo here:</span> <a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2012/02/room-full-of-sunshine-inspirations.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2012/02/room-full-of-sunshine-inspirations.html</span></a><br />
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: inherit; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">The reddish paisley intermixed with soft pastels...I just love it. Though I'm not crazy about having quite so much stuff going on in one space, I love the warm, cozy and feminine feel. A couple additional features of this room I plan to incorporate in mine:</span></span><br />
<ul><span style="font-family: inherit;">
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<li><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: inherit; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">The buttery yellow walls </span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: inherit; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">The greenery in vases - so simple, and provides a little life to the space. I think flowers would be a little overwhelming/too much, so this is the perfect compromise. </span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
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<li><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: inherit; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">The cool curtains - I would actually like to use that bed sheet, no-sew curtain trick I've seen a few times on Pinterest! No needles, thread or machine - love it!</span></span></li>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: inherit; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">More to come. I'll get a picture of the quilt this weekend (perhaps with the designer herself, my lovely mom) and will also outline my game plan. Perhaps I'll post some before pics too. :)</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: inherit; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Happy Wednesday Everyone! Hope it is a great day.</span></span><br />
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: inherit; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">M.</span></span>Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-49580131831359650322012-07-02T08:41:00.000-05:002012-07-02T08:41:16.628-05:00Travel Musts and Destination To DosGood Morning!<br />
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Hope everyone had a lovely weekend! Mine was spent getting internet connection, spending time with my family (namely my brother, who I feel like I haven't spent time with in way too long - we had cocktails and went shopping to the outlet mall - we shop really well together, actually!), cleaning, and working from home in my kitchen (my new kitchen island doubles quite nicely as a desk - lots of space to spread out all of my stuff!) As I'll be out of town the next couple of weekends, it was a wonderful to get all caught up at home. Now that I'm gearing up for a long weekend trip to Chicago, I thought I'd share my list of "<em>musts</em>" - both what I must bring along, and what I hope to do (although our agenda is still up in the air, there are a few for sure items on the books.)<br />
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With friends all over the country, coupled with the fact that traveling is one of my favorite ways to spend my free time, I can readily identify my list of "must have travel items" that I just can't leave town without. <br />
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<strong>My Must Have Travel Items: </strong><br />
<ul>
<li>Carry on Suitcase (I actually need to purchase a new one this week, as after 12 great years- including 2 trips overseas- my current little suitcase has broken wheels. It has been great, though!</li>
<li>Tote/large purse for reading materials, makeup and other essentials for the plane ride/car ride</li>
<li>Travel hot rollers (those of you that know me well know that I *rarely* go a day without my trusty hot rollers. It may sound silly, but I can feel the missing "pep in my step" without them.</li>
<li>Heels! (Natually) ;) - Also a pair of flat sandals, for walking, etc. </li>
<li>Small purse/wristlet packed in main purse</li>
<li>Cliff and/or Luna Bars (Great healthy snack on the go...always have one in my purse.) </li>
<li>Lip gloss/lipstick </li>
<li>Water</li>
<li>Wine (Kidding! But I do find it quickly upon my arrival to said destination.)</li>
<li>My phone (aka lifeline) - for calls, email, internet, texts, music - what <em>don't </em>our phones do for us these days? </li>
<li>My Kindle Fire - a newer addition to the travel must have list, however I'm in love with it! As an avid reader, I love nothing more than having several books (and a bookstore) at my fingertips always! Since I take public transportation to work as well, this is an item that is used on the daily by your's truly. Plus, since it has internet, it's like a little computer...great for the airport. </li>
</ul>
<strong>On My List for Chicago:</strong><br />
<ul>
<li>Fireworks at Navy Pier (This is actually happening for sure; can't wait - I will take pictures. I Love Fireworks! So magical.)</li>
<li>Rooftop cocktails (Maybe more than once...)</li>
<li>Dinner at a few lovely spots - I'm lucky to have friends that know the city well...so I'm leaving these decisions up to them. </li>
<li>A boatride of some sort (I still haven't been on the famous Architecture Tour so I think we may do this...)</li>
</ul>
That's what I can think of right now. I'm sure I will add on. Until then, I'm off to a busy day of work...it will be a nutty week here at the office but fun to have a trip to look forward to!<br />
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<br />Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-91456094689992371602012-06-26T08:43:00.000-05:002012-06-26T08:43:21.151-05:00Tuesday Thoughts to PeruseHappy Tuesday! Thought I'd share some favorite quotes of mine for your reading pleasure. I think I'll make this a weekly tradition, as inspirational words truly are a favorite thing of mine. What better way to kick off a busy Tuesday than with some wisdom (coupled with a few cups of coffee, naturally!) Speaking of coffee, if you find yourself in the lovely aisles of Trader Joe's anytime soon, I'd highly recommend their new Vanilla Chai Ground Coffee blend; it's a mild roast coffee with nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves blended in - delish. :)<br /> <br />Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. <br />- Mark Twain<br /><br />You will find as you look back upon your life that the moments when you have truly lived are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of love.<br />- Henry Drummond<br /><br />Nothing should be prized more highly<br /> than the value of each day. <br />- Goethe <br /><br />Meditate.<br />Live purely. Be quiet.<br />Do your work with mastery.<br />Like the moon, come out <br />from behind the clouds!<br />Shine.<br />- Buddha<br /> <br />Strength is a force. It is an attribute of the heart. Its opposite is not weakness and fear, but confusion, lack of clarity, and lack of sound intention. Remember the words of Tao Te Ching. 'The only true strength is a strength that people do not fear.' Strength based in force is a strength people fear. Strength based in love is a strength people crave.<br />- Kent Nerburn<br /><br />Side note on Kent Nerburn: He is amazing! He is a local MN Author whom I've had the pleasure of meeting - he lives up north in the woods; an amazing person and his writing is exceptional! I highly recommend his books - one of my favorites is Letters to My Son, which I plan on reading to my future children. Good stuff!Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-2072637670896338722012-06-21T08:53:00.002-05:002012-06-21T08:53:39.087-05:00Happy in the new place!Happy Summer! It has been a great first couple of weeks in the new place.<br />
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Below are a few pictures of the space put together. I still have a bit to do, including:<br />
<ul>
<li>Hanging wall decor (this weeknd!) </li>
<li>Painting (hopefully an August project)</li>
<li>Framing additional photos</li>
<li>Figuring out the lighting in my bathroom (way too industrial for my liking right now, but its a huge space so I have to believe I can figure out a way to get crafty in that department) </li>
</ul>
My bedroom is also a big project (before pics coming soon) that I look forward to tackling. In the bedroom I plan to:<br />
<ul>
<li>Repurpose both my desk and dresser by painting them antique white and changing the hardware to match my wrought iron bedframe</li>
<li>Using the quilt my mom is finishing for me soon as my color pallate, decorate the space</li>
<li>Eventually paint (August or September project, I'm thinking)</li>
</ul>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hcVR3rggTfg/T-MlKMHLekI/AAAAAAAAADM/NT3GGvCtbbo/s1600/2012-06-20_20-21-19_854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="96" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hcVR3rggTfg/T-MlKMHLekI/AAAAAAAAADM/NT3GGvCtbbo/s320/2012-06-20_20-21-19_854.jpg" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 541px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 508px;" width="54" /></a>So lots to do, but it will be quite fun. Below are some pictures of the space as of now!<br />
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<br />Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-81737651923358891712012-06-04T17:28:00.003-05:002012-06-04T17:28:33.524-05:00Moving DayWell I'm happy to report that I'm all moved in! I LOVE the new place. So excited to have all the amenities I was hoping for in my next place (large, open kitchen, washer/dryer in-unit and underground parking are the main ones!) The movers were awesome; it was so nice not having to lift so many boxes, etc. Plus it saved my energy for unpacking quickly, and even allowed for me to get some decorating in! Did I mention Target is directly across the street (Blessing? Or Curse? Ha!) <br />
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Several home projects are on my list, including hanging paintings/artwork, painting the living room and bedroom, and repurposing my bedroom furniture (going for cozy french cottage theme, inspired by the quilt my momma is finishing for me.)<br />
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Looking forward to breaking the place in with a little move-in party in a couple weeks with some close friends!<br />
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Here are my "before" pics, taken shortly after the movers left. I'll post several "after" pics tomorrow to compare :) <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O8yo3-fKpl0/T801oKAvYYI/AAAAAAAAACw/fsAUpo0DAqg/s1600/2012-06-01_19-23-34_31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O8yo3-fKpl0/T801oKAvYYI/AAAAAAAAACw/fsAUpo0DAqg/s320/2012-06-01_19-23-34_31.jpg" width="176" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-916BGQR3KR4/T801uZ1wcsI/AAAAAAAAADA/89R7U2xLZAk/s1600/2012-06-01_19-23-06_873.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-916BGQR3KR4/T801uZ1wcsI/AAAAAAAAADA/89R7U2xLZAk/s320/2012-06-01_19-23-06_873.jpg" width="179" /></a><br />
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<br />Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-53413114957289663462012-05-28T21:03:00.000-05:002012-05-29T08:01:21.385-05:00The Moving Process Begins!Happy Memorial Day! As I move into my new place on June 1st, most of my long weekend was spent packing up my belongings! I'm happy to report that the process went quite smoothly...after a couple trips to Target, Lowes and Starbucks (of course)...I effectively boxed everything up!<br />
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One thing I love about moving is the opportunity it provides for simplifying and getting rid of the excess <em>stuff </em>one accumulates over time. I counted 8 bags of clothing, accessories, etc. that I dropped off yesterday for donation! My main goal for this move was to only bring items with me that follow the Feng Shui motto to only allow things into your home that are either functional or beautful. I heard this mantra for the first time a couple years ago, and it has stuck with me since then. Moving is a perfect time to work toward it. <br />
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Everything is ready for the movers on Friday. I will document the actual move (pictures to follow as well!) <br />
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For now, please see the boxes in all their glory (more functional than beautiful at this point, clearly!)<br />
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<br />Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-28093334586655718492012-05-16T10:50:00.001-05:002012-05-16T11:48:16.967-05:00Do What You LoveLast week marked my one year anniversary with my company, KellyMitchell Group! Hard to believe it has already been a whole year, yet it feels like so much has happened and changed in my life as a result. I've grown so much professionally, and can say with confidence that I love coming to work every day! Pretty awesome. <br />
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They say, "do what you love and success will follow." Never have I felt so strongly about that statement; passion drives you to push yourself to new heights. <br />
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In celebration of my workplace anniversary, here I am celebrating a new hire. My coworker Caroline took this snapshot of me this morning in my new blue dress. On a side note, pretty excited about bright colors and fun fabrics these days. <br />
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Happy Wednesday! Go forth and be passionate! ;)</div>
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</o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></v:shapetype></span>Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-71352518323967146672012-05-07T12:06:00.001-05:002012-05-07T12:06:12.166-05:00Welcome Home Sydney!<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" id="twttrHubFrameSecure" name="twttrHubFrameSecure" scrolling="no" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets/hub.html" style="height: 10px; position: absolute; top: -9999em; width: 10px;" tabindex="0"></iframe><iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" id="twttrHubFrame" name="twttrHubFrame" scrolling="no" src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets/hub.html" style="height: 10px; position: absolute; top: -9999em; width: 10px;" tabindex="0"></iframe>Thought I'd kick off the week with a favorite friendship quote of mine...<br />
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<em>"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom." </em><em>-Marcel Proust</em><br />
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My dear friend Sydney is currently en route home to Minneapolis from Chicago - I'm so excited to see her. Sydney is in law school at Northwestern, and will be home for a couple weeks! We have a lot of catching up to do...excited to spend some quality time with one of my favorite people. Hoping to recapture a moment such as this tonight when I see her :)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Syd and I</em></td></tr>
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<br />Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242413945655254349.post-14741942845894614412012-05-06T19:57:00.003-05:002012-05-06T19:58:45.826-05:00Cinco De Mayo TreatsThis past weekend, my friend Ally and I rang in Cinco De Mayo with some refreshing Margaritas at my place in Uptown. We coupled our delicious margs with seven layer taco dip - quite tasty. It was a rainy day in Minneapolis, so we stayed indoors for the most part, but Margs on the couch taste just as good! <br />
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I snapped this shot at my kitchen table. I'm a new user of Instagram; so far I'm in love! Perfect for blogging. Happy in Heelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06416941217296439069noreply@blogger.com0