Welcome, Weekend!

Is it just me, or did this week inch by at the slowest possible pace? Don't get me wrong, I was still super busy, but the pile of paperwork on my desk never seemed to get any smaller. Nevertheless, it's Friday and I couldn't be happier. On deck this weekend: lots of cleaning in preparation for my mom, aunt, and sister coming to visit next weekend! I've already spent tonight reorganizing the kitchen cabinets and purging my fridge of expired take out. I'm hoping to get lots done tomorrow morning so I can treat myself to one of these polish jobs before a sushi double date night (my fav)! Sunday is going to be spent getting M fitted for a tux for his sister's upcoming nuptials, meal planning and grocery shopping, and hopefully some leisurely coffee and lounge time.
What are your fun plans for this weekend?

images via tumblr and we heart it

Nailed It

I love nail polish and trying out different manicures. Two of my favorite sites to go for inspiration are ...Love Maegan and the Beauty Department. Lately, I've wanted to keep my nails subtle and neutral with a little pop of color here and there. These are some images from my Pinterest boards that I may try this weekend. I am especially lusting after that new shimmery purple Nars color, diamond life. What kinds of nail trends have you been trying? Do you have a favorite nude or neutral polish that I should try?

Holiday Photo Mash Up

Here are a few photos from my vacation this past week. I crammed in as much as possible and enjoyed celebrating both Christmas and my birthday. Even though I wish I had a few more days to relax, I'm feeling recharged and ready to take on 2012!

Mood: Inspired

Do you have a mood/inspiration board somewhere in your home? It's something that I've been wanting to put up for a long time now, but just haven't gotten around to actually doing. I'm thinking that this might finally be the year. I always find myself saving scraps of mementos (movie stubs, matchbooks) and tearing striking photos out of magazines. I think it would be helpful to recognize themes in things that I find appealing, whether it be design, fashion, or even certain colors.

If you have an inspiration board, how do you use it and how often do you change it?

all images found via Pinterest

Reach for the Stars

I was looking back at this list from last year's 30 day blog challenge, and although I kept many of my resolutions, there's always room for personal growth. This year, I hope to simplify and de-clutter my life. I've accumulated so much stuff over the years and I really need to become more organized. So that's my big, overall goal (along with completing lots of little household projects).



In addition to paring things down, I'd also like to reconnect (and stay connected) with friends and family members, especially via snail mail. I get so much joy out of a hand written card or care package, so I'm going to try and pay it forward more consistently.



I hope to curb my senseless spending (coffees, impulse check out puchases, magazines) and be able to invest in at least two classic pieces that I save for throughout the year.



Finally, I want to try to have a more positive approach to everyday occurances. It's so easy to get caught up in the latest gossip or whine about inconsequential events. I'd rather channel my energy towards something that makes me or those around me happy.



As always, I want to keep learning more about myself, accept challenges, eat more vegetables, and see more of the world. Definitely some broad goals for 2012, but I'm excited nonetheless.

What are your resolutions or aspirations for 2012?

all images found via Pinterest.