muhs home

Muhs Home is one of my favorite little browsing spots. Aren't these sets of spreaders, knives, and cocktail forks gorgeous? I love the simplicity and craftsmanship. 

Have a pretty Wednesday.

xoxo.

a classic (and simplified) wardrobe.

Remember the big 30 for 30 blog challenge last year? Lots of bloggers joined in to wear just 30 items from their closet for 30 days. I didn't participate, but I liked the idea of the challenge. It forced bloggers to take an honest look at the potential excess in their closets and get creative. A couple years ago, I "gave up" my wardrobe for lent. I wore white v-necks, jeans, and my trusty rainbows everyday, plus a sweatshirt on cold days and a skirt on Sundays. It was pretty humbling and also had one major side benefit: picking out my outfit each morning took .01 seconds.

I'm thinking of doing a similar, but more long term challenge with my current wardrobe. I have a lot of things that I only wear once or twice a year, which has me asking, are these really worth the space and trouble? Probably not. So, I'm going to start paring down my wardrobe, holding onto the pieces that are versatile, classic, and that I really love. The rest? Adios. I'm hoping to get down to 50 or less (which, saying it now, still sounds pretty ridiculous and first-world...) I've already filled a large bag for Goodwill and I have another full bag on "probation" (meaning that if I don't wear anything that's in the bag in the next month, it's gone). 

My inspiration for this idea came from a few different places. First, my constant drooling over the Hatch Collection (and I'm not even pregnant). Hatch only sells 18 pieces, but they're super cute and really versatile. 

Second, Ina Garten. This lady has some serious class, and a signature look. I love that her personality and passions shine more than her clothing. And her popped collar is just screaming at you as if to say, "Yes, I'm this awesome, and Jeffrey knows it too."

Third, on my trip back to Portland earlier this month, I only brought a tote-size purse with me to avoid a ridiculous $30 fee for a carry-on bag. But, I was able to fit four days worth of outfits, plus running clothes, running shoes, my laptop, a book, water bottle, toothbrush, and a quart of blueberries in my bag. The trick? My outfits consisted of different combinations of a black maxi dress, striped sweater, black tank top, collared shirt, and white shorts.

All of this has me thinking that less is more. That keeping classic pieces and letting the rest go would not only bring ease to my morning routine, but more importantly help me take a deeper look at the ways I tend to live in excess. This is just another opportunity for me to trust God's provision over my own, in an area where I'm prone to feeling like I'm constantly trying to keep up. 

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xoxo.

[top photo via]

not that i have the budget, but...

...if I did, I'd shop at LemLem, Emerson Fry and Herriott Grace.

I so appreciate the handcraftedness of these beauties, and I applaud their makers (I love seeing the real faces behind companies like these!).

[shown: Hana Pocket Bag, Maru Loop Scarf, The Ankle Strap Heel, Maple Rolling Pin]

xoxo.

just dropping in to say...

...that I've very much in love with these shoes.

xoxo.

i adore: sweet shops.

Well, the calendar says it's Tuesday but it feels like it should be Thursday to me. Anyone? We're also in another 105+ degree week. My favorite. Sooo I'm countering the heat with a little cool. Cool shops, that is. These are some of my current favorites. 

1. Hand in Hand Soap (above): They're a brand new company, and every time you buy one of their bars of soap, they donate a bar to help save the lives of the millions around the world who are at risk for water-related deaths. They're website explains that 45% of water-related deaths around the world could have been prevented by handwashing, hence the soap. On top of that, they're eco-friendly, bio-degradable and carbon neutral. Awesome.

2. Aedrial Originals (below): This sweet Etsy shop has the cutest handmade plates. Every piece is hand-painted, and I especially love the birthday plates. 

3. Pretties by Meg (below): I ordered two pieces from Meg last month (this and these) and I LOVE them. Her jewelry has beautiful colors and textures. Right now, I'm loving these mocha earrings. 

4. Terrain (below): Does Terrain ever get old? Not to me. I love these gingham plates and all things buzz buzz. 

What shops are you loving this week?

xoxo.

pretty things.

smooth glass teardrops in lemon chiffon

loving all these gems from my favorite little shop, noon designs in san diego. their earrings are so sweet and delicate and hang so beautifully.

hummingbird greeting cards

black eyed susan highball glasses

yellow flower burst greeting cards

wish list.

juicer squeeze boat | $24

loving all these pretty things from terrain. 

[loving their prices too.]

milk glass | $6

harvest apron | $38

yellow folk tea towel | $24

letterpress recipe cards | $10

steals and deals.

[this is not me. i'm not much for carrying dogs in my purse]

as i mentioned on thursday, my mom and i hit up some great sales this week at banana republic and gap. the occasion? trying to take advantage of the give & get 30% off weekend!

got the coupon in my inbox, and we headed to woodburn!

got a few of these for about $3.60 each!

and these were $6.30!

and here's my favorite deal: banana republic bootcut jeans, regularly $49.99 for $21! 

the give & get weekend goes through tomorrow, and i'd be happy to pass along my coupon to anyone interested!