The Softest Summer Sweatshirt

There is something wonderfully cozy about throwing on a sweatshirt when the sun starts to set and a bit of chill enters the night air.    In the summer, the goal is to be outside as long as possible, and a lot of the time, that involves sitting on a patio drinking a cocktail and chatting with friends - so a soft, comfy sweatshirt has always been one of my summer staples.  I picked up that pretty, palm-printed sweatshirt below for only $22.00!  Find it here.  Chaser has always been a brand I've loved - their stuff is always slightly funky, and perfectly worn in - and this soft as a dream sweatshirt is no exception. 

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A Really Terrific Song

One life, live free, big dreams - we're all about 'em.

I truly believe music has a huge effect on our lives.  It can define a moment, change a mood, and alter our perceptions better than maybe anything else on this planet.  My best friend sent me this music video a while back and told me, "Watch it, it will make you happy."  And boy was she right, it did make me happy.  So happy I teared up a bit.  The song is entitled "You & I" and is by Crystal Fighters, who are reminiscent of Dispatch but with a slightly electronic twist.  So go ahead and watch this video (it's odd and a bit sad, but ultimately lovely) and allow your Thursday to be made a little brighter.

Let's Shop Leif

On Pinterest the other evening I happened to stumble across some amazingly cute little jars.  Upon further investigation, I was lead to the Shop Leif website, and let's just say, I'm really in love.  Providing everything from jewelry to, paintings, to tea towels, I've developed quite the wish list.  I'm especially loving the earrings and rings - the rough cut stones in claw-like settings are beyond pretty in a natural and earthy way that is perfection.  Also this stuff is unique - and I'm thinking this website will be my new go-to for finding birthday gifts for girlfriends.

1.) Glazed Planter

2.) Water Color Print

3.) Amethyst Earrings

4.) Gem Stone Magnets

5.) Dotted Placemats

6.) Decorative Bottle

Ultimate in Summer Sexy

1, 2, 3

For years now, my favorite makeup combination has been a smokey eye and a nude lip.  It's fresh and sexy, and something about it is perfect for summer.  Not much is needed to achieve this classic look - apply nude lipstick, bronzer, and a good kohl eyeliner and off you go, looking pretty as can be.  

Pretty lil' Ponies

With warm, muggy weather finally here (I'm not complaining, simply stating facts) I've found that there is nothing more refreshing than a polished looking ponytail.  Ponies are a hair trend I tend to overlook - probably because it's just something I automatically do at some point during the day (it's a running joke that at noon in my office, my hair will have gone from down to up.)  But with a little styling, I think ponytails can be one of the prettiest ways to wear hair.  Below are some trends that are perfect for summertime.

Low side pony, with side part and soft waves...

Preppy, high pony made extra sweet with a bow...

Extra messy & sexy, with a hidden hair tie...

Loose and simple pony, with chunky braids for contrast...

A Brigitte Bardot-esqe pony with lots of volume....

Weekend's Hurr.

 I'm so happy the weekend is here.  My friends are here, the sun is out, wine is flowing, and life is good.  Enjoy your weekend, dears.  

Rose Gardens at Dusk

I have found that my new favorite way to unwind, is to go for a walk in the rose garden a few blocks from my house.  I've been waiting patiently for the roses to bloom, and on last night's walk I was delighted to find that many had blossomed.  Evening walks have easily become a favorite way to de-stress after a long day of work.  What are the ways your relax in the evening?  

Beauty Crush Monday: Onesta Lavender Body Lotion

Discovering the Onesta line was a fortuitous find - and one that I'm quite thankful for.  In a world where parabens are bad, and sulfate free is the only way to buy beauty products, the whole thing can be a bit overwhelming.  How do you know what you're buying?  Onesta takes the guess work out of it and makes the whole process quite simple.   All of their ingredients are naturally derived - so you can feel great about what you're using.  Also, 10% of the company's profits are donated to cancer research each year.

My BFF happens to work for the company, and she's the one who turned me on to their great products.   I have come to realize I can't live without the Lavender Body Lotion.  It's rich, without being greasy, and the natural lavender smell is intoxicatingly fresh.  It has become my favorite thing to put on before I  go to bed.    Their hair products are equally wonderful, and I'll plan on sharing more about those in a future Beauty Crush Monday.

As of Late

Well, hello there, friends.  It's been a few minutes.  I've been busy though.  Truly.  May was a beautiful blur of a month that started with the Kentucky Derby, included a trip to Mexico, and ended with me running my 1st 1/2 marathon.  I have been busy with work (it's a good thing!) but have missed good ol' Hush n Wonder.  So here's hoping the dear blog gets a bit more attention in the coming months.

I haven't gotten to do much shopping lately.  Everything I have bought in the past month has had some sort of purpose - like I need that dress for the Kentucky Derby.  Or I need that good facial sunscreen for Mexico.  Or that sports bra is the perfect pink to match my running shoes.  You get the picture.  Below are some little gems I'd like to be buying regardless of trips and simply in honor of summer.  Which is here.  Finally!

The Wantables.

Bath & Shower Oil:  I am needing this.  This oil is perfect to lather on before a shower or add a little to your bath to create a relaxing little haven all your own.  By Aromatherapy Associates, find it here.  

A Printed Tee:   Nothing beats a good printed t-shirt.  This one by Zoe Karssen is perfection.  Fun fact - I ordered it from here.  

Retro Sunnies:  Acetate sunglasses are the thing right now - but something about this pair seems perfectly classic.  Cutler and Gross nailed it with this pair.  

A Wild Necklace:  I'm quite certain shark teeth have replaced snakes as the most exotic form of jewelry.  This necklace by Heather Hawkins is the ultimate summer accessory.  

A Vintage Scarf:   Finishing off an outfit with a colorful scarf is trick that can take outfits from blah to beautiful.  This Dolce & Gabbana printed scarf is great, but find that flea markets and vintage stores have a great selection as well.  

Printed Shorts:  A fun pair of printed shorts are must have for summer.  I love this aztec version from Topshop.  Paired with a peasant top or simple tank, these would/will get a lot of wear.