Insta-Outfits

Given my long commute and the early darkness of winter, "real" outfit posts seem to be a thing of the past.  However, I didn't want anyone to worry that I've been running around naked, so here are a few recent outfits :)

Gap sweater, LOFT cords, LOFT scarf, Ann Taylor tee, my great aunt Bunny's brooch, David Yurman ring

Limited faux leather dress, Ann Taylor black tee, Ann Taylor belt, Ann Taylor bib necklace, Nordstrom watch, thrifted bracelet

Banana Republic dress (super old), Ann Taylor striped tee, Ann Taylor blazer, Hue tights, my nerd glasses (no, they're not prescription; they're just for fun!)

Thrifted houndstooth top, Zara skirt, Gap scarf, Target headband

Thrifted sweater (loving the leopard!), Ann Taylor ponte knit pants, Gap scarf

Thrifted floral dress, Kohls motorcycle jacket, Ann Taylor belt, LOFT necklace, Talbots earrings

LOFT dress, Benneton blazer, Ann Taylor belt, Nordstrom watch, thrifted bracelets and rings

Hope everyone is having a good week!

Christkindlmarket Girls Day

Since the month of January is already flying by, I thought I should consider posting my holiday pictures.  Proof that the new year did not include the goal of being a more timely blogger :)  Near the end of December, I had a half day off work, and I couldn't think of a better place to spend it than the Christkindlmarket.  The market is located downtown in Daley Plaza, and it is one of my favorite Chicago holiday traditions.  Vendors come from all over the world to create an authentic German Christmas market right in the heart of Chicago.  I was thrilled to visit on a weekday, as the crowds were much lighter, leaving less time standing in line and more time wandering with yummy food and drink in hand!

Oh how this place warms my Christmas loving heart!  It makes the bitter, below freezing temperatures much more bearable :)

Big Christmas trees and latkes, two of my most favorite things!

While Christmas cheer is the first reason I go to the market, gluhwein is a close second.  This hot, spiced wine has become one of my favorite holiday drinks since my parents moved overseas.  It is oh so yummy, and the cute little boot mugs make it extra special to enjoy!

No day is too cold when gluhwein is involved :)

Sweet pastries and beautiful Chistmas ornaments are in every corner of the market.  This was actually my first year to go inside the ornament house, as the crowds are usually too crazy.  Additional incentive to go on a weekday!

A blurry but happy picture as we said goodbye to the market and headed for some shopping on Michigan Avenue.  And a quick train snap of my purchase for the day... a fushcia beanie!  I've never been able to pull off the beanie look, but my friend Christie was encouraging when she said, "If anyone is meant to wear a hot pink beanie, it's you!"  Done and done :)

If you ever come to Chicago during the holidays, the Christkindlmarket is a must.  And if its possible to go on a weekday, even better!  PS: see past Christkindlmarket trips here, here, and here.

Happy New Year

{via pinterest}

Happy New Year to all of my lovely blog readers and friends!  Things have been a bit quiet around here, as I took some time off to travel to Texas and be with my family for the holidays.  Matt and I got back to Chicago late Sunday night and then spent a simple New Years Eve at home together, with a yummy homemade meal and a glass (or two) of red wine.  It was simple and sweet, just what I needed after the craziness (and awesomeness) of the Christmas season.  I've got lots of fun pictures from the holiday season to share, so I imagine I'll be back later in the week to start the catch up process.  But until then, have a fabulous start to 2013.  May it be the best year yet!