tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58471103820347200062024-02-21T12:00:01.045-06:00daydreamerJackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.comBlogger261125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-5009996637781070512014-10-16T19:04:00.002-05:002014-10-16T19:15:10.974-05:00On Running a MarathonI went back to work today after running the Chicago Marathon this past weekend and I wanted to check in with a little recap. But first...let's back up.<br />
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I started running races when I was a kid, maybe six or seven years old. At the time the distance was half a mile. My dad would run the full race, probably 2-4 miles, and my brother and I would tackle the half mile with all the grace and enthusiasm two little kids could muster. We would collect our ribbons and medals and head home. I developed quite the stash of awards (many of them just for finishing. Let's clear that up...I was no prodigy.) over the course of those childhood summers.<br />
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When I was a kid I didn't really like running very much. Ironic, I know. It felt like a chore, and it always seemed like something I had to do rather than wanted to do. But as I got older and tried out all the different sports that every kid seems to try—gymnastics, softball, soccer, basketball, swimming, the list goes on—nothing stuck. Nothing except running. Maybe it was my lack of balance and coordination in other sports, but there was just something about it that worked for me. I was on the track and cross country teams for most of junior high and high school and somewhere in there I decided I would love to run a marathon someday, but it was always more of a dream than something I thought I could actually do.<br />
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The summer before I left for college that dream shifted to a goal. I'm not sure exactly why that happened, but I do know that for the first time in my life, I wasn't running for anyone else. Not for my dad, not for my cross country coach, just for me. And I think it was then that I really fell in love with the sport. I was also about to move into a tiny dorm room with a complete stranger and start a brand new phase of my life. Everything was changing around me, and it seemed like the perfect time to go after one of my biggest goals to date; to run a marathon.<br />
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At the time I had never run more than seven miles at once, but somewhere deep down I knew I could do it. I signed up for my first marathon that summer. I remember laying in bed texting a friend who was also planning to sign up, as we waited excitedly for registration to open at midnight. After signing up, my first year of college was spent waking up at 5:30am, quietly getting dressed, and tiptoeing out of my shared dorm room to go for a run. The overnight staff at the dorm must have thought I was crazy. Or dedicated. Or something in between.<br />
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I ran my first marathon in June 2009 on a steaming hot summer day. I think it was 95 degrees. I finished in 4:45. My second marathon was a year later, and despite a very sporadic training schedule, I finished in 4:11. A little over a year after that, I ran my third marathon in 4:05.<br />
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Until last Sunday I hadn't run a marathon since 2011, and in that time I had completely forgotten just how hard they are. But as I rolled out of bed in the early hours of the morning on Sunday, ate some almond butter and bread, put on sunscreen, and got dressed, I felt ready. It had been 3 years and I was itching to run that distance again.<br />
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I left my hotel and walked through the quiet, dark streets of downtown Chicago and boarded the L. It was packed to the brim with runners. We all got off at Jackson and made our way to the start. It was chilly, but there was so much excitement in the air. While I was waiting to go through the security check to get into the runners' start area, I turned around and looked at the city behind me—a city that feels so much like home. It was beautiful in the early morning light.<br />
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<i>Chicago Marathon Start // <a href="http://breakingnews.suntimes.com/chicago/photos-beautiful-aerial-views-of-marathon-start-on-lakefront/#slide-0" target="_blank">Photo by Lee Hogan/for Sun-Times Media</a></i></div>
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After entering the start area and waiting as long as possible, I took off a few outer layers of clothing, checked my gear bag, and headed to the start corrals with 45,000 other runners. We waited and waited, collectively knowing that the months of training we put in all came down to these last 26.2 miles, and after the gun sounded we slowly made our way to the start line. The energy was palpable. As we got closer and closer to the start, the adrenaline was building. And then...it began.<br />
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As we ran through the streets of Chicago we were flooded with encouragement and cheering, especially in the first half. If you've ever cheered at a marathon before, <i>thank you</i>. Not only is the cheering entertaining, but it also distracts you from your thoughts, which can be a very good thing over the course of 26.2 miles. The first 14 miles I was running Boston pace, averaging between 8 - 8:10 minute miles. Boston has always been my goal. It's every marathon runner's goal. And as I kept going, from mile 15 to 16 to 17 to 18, I started to lose momentum, and I could feel it as it happened. My right foot had been hurting, and then my left knee started to ache. My body was exhausted, and my positive mentality was weakening. But I kept going. I broke up the distance by mileage, by water stops, by when I would take my next energy gel—anything to distract me from how far I had run and how far I had left to go. At multiple points, thanks to unexpected pain in my foot and knee, I wasn't sure I would finish.<br />
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Around mile 24 a man passed me and said, "Hey, I wanted to say thank you. I've been following you the entire way." It shocked me that, unbeknownst to me, I had helped someone through the race. And I knew exactly what he meant. There had been times when I would focus on another runner's legs, or their shoes, just to serve as a point of distraction.<br />
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The last mile of the race was rough. It should seem easy, right? After 25 miles, there's only a mile and some change left to go. But as the crowds cheered around me and the announcer yelled that we had a mile left, all I could do was look down at the ground and focus on putting one step in front of the other; focus on each hundredth of a mile as they added up on my watch.<br />
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Finally, we turned a corner, ran up a slight hill, then turned another corner and approached the finish. I started tearing up, but that caused me to lose my breath so I stopped. I finished and slowed to a very unsteady walk, making my way through the finish corral. My time was 3:42:57. Not Boston, but pretty damn good as far as I'm concerned.<br /><br />
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I've heard people say a million times that marathons are like life. And they are. You work hard for them, and most of the time the work you put in ahead of time directly correlates to the results you get. And as in life, you can never quite predict what will happen in the course of a marathon. You can train for it all you want, but sometimes it's going to go worse than planned and sometimes it's going to go better. The best thing to do when the going gets tough in a marathon is to focus on the present; focus on putting one step in front of the other. And eventually, you'll make it.Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-13451400945649625102014-10-08T07:00:00.000-05:002014-10-08T07:00:04.918-05:00Studio SpaceHi all! I'm back. And guess what? I moved. That's right—I moved into an apartment that's all my own. If you follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/jackiesaffert" target="_blank">instagram</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/jackiesaffert" target="_blank">twitter</a>, this isn't such big news. It's been over a month since I made the move. But it's new to this blog so we're going to go with it.<br />
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If you had told my childhood self that one day I would move into an apartment all on my own I would have been terrified. It sounds like an overstatement but it's not—I was such a homebody growing up. And honestly, if you would have told me a year ago that I would live by myself I wouldn't have believed you. The thought of living alone used to scare me. A lot. I really didn't think I would like it. But then life happened and through a series of events and circumstances getting my own place became the best option. I searched high and low, in every neighborhood of the city (and spent an embarrassing number of hours on craigslist) until I finally found a place that felt right. And on September 1st I made the move into a small but fitting 414 square foot studio.</div>
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And guess what? I've been loving it. And that's not even an exaggeration. I've loved waking up and walking the ten foot distance to make my morning coffee. And playing music as loudly as I want without worrying about bothering anyone. And reading Mindy Kaling's book in bed at night, knowing that when I laugh out loud there's nobody one room over getting annoyed. I've loved having my own fridge, my own space. Knowing that if there's a mess, I made it...and if everything's spotless it's because I cleaned it. There are so many things to be said for having a place of your own, and I can tell I'm learning a lot about myself along the way. </div>
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And then there's the decorating. I'm ever so slowly making this place come to life. Remember how I said I spent an embarrassing number of hours on craigslist looking for a place to live? That doesn't really compare to how many hours I've spent browsing my favorite home decor sites for pieces to help this little apartment come together. These past few years I've soaked up so many decor posts online, and now that it's time to filter down all the inspiration I've taken in, it's a little overwhelming. But as they say, Rome wasn't built in a day (yes I'm comparing my studio apartment to Rome...it's fine). And I for one am going to take my time. If I'm going to invest in something for my home it's going to be the right thing. And if I decide to just pick something up from Target or Ikea and call it a day, that's just fine too.</div>
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So here's to a new start, in a new place that I really love. Be sure to follow along for updates as everything comes together. And if you have any tips for decorating a small space on a budget, please feel free to share!</div>
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Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-6905978356949594202014-08-05T07:00:00.000-05:002014-08-05T07:00:04.278-05:00The Everygirl Team ConferenceHi all! <i>Finally</i>, a post. This is exciting stuff. I must admit, it felt a little odd to log in to blogger and press the "new post" link at the top of the page. I haven't published a thing since my birthday five months ago. And that's just crazy.<br />
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Today I wanted to share a recap of The Everygirl Team Conference a few weeks ago. Although co-founders Alaina and Danielle are in Chicago, most of the team is based all across the country. Together we represent Minneapolis, Chicago, Madison, Washington, D.C., Charlotte, New Orleans, and Los Angeles. I had never met the majority of the team before, so when I heard we would all be able to get together in person I was thrilled.<br />
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The conference took place the third week of July. I flew in on Wednesday night and and headed straight to <a href="http://www.wchicago-lakeshore.com/" target="_blank">the hotel</a>. I got there around 10 and was able to meet up with some of the team as they were finishing up dinner in the adjacent <a href="http://www.wchicago-lakeshore.com/current-chicago-restaurant" target="_blank">Current Restaurant</a>. From there I went up to my room and settled in. I stayed up <i>way</i> too late painting my nails in bed and watching the Kardashians (judge me if you must but that is some good entertainment in my opinion). And the next morning I woke up to this sunny view outside my room.<br />
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We stayed at the <a href="http://www.wchicago-lakeshore.com/" target="_blank">W Lakeshore</a> and I loved this hotel, you guys. I've had a few less-than-perfect hotel experiences in the windy city so it's always a relief to find a hotel that has beautiful, clean rooms and comfy beds. And the location is as good as it gets in my opinion. If I hadn't been so excited for the conference, it would have been <i>really </i>hard to get out of this bed.</div>
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At 8:30 I went downstairs to the conference room and met everyone for breakfast. And I got my very own <a href="http://shop.theeverygirl.com/products/success-is-not-for-the-lazy-mug" target="_blank">TEG mug</a>, out of which I've been drinking <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2011/01/13/classic-green-monster/" target="_blank">these green smoothies</a> (everyone drinks their smoothies from mugs, right?).<br />
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From there the meeting commenced and we spent the day discussing our work process, story ideas, and what we see for the future of The Everygirl. At 1 we broke for a true Chicago lunch -- deep dish pizza from <a href="http://www.loumalnatis.com/" target="_blank">Lou Malnati's</a> and <a href="http://www.312chi.com/pages/home/42.php" target="_blank">312 Beer</a>. And a beet salad! (!!) Little known fact about me: I <i>love</i> beets. I was genuinely thrilled to see three different kinds for lunch.<br />
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After lunch we took headshots and team photos with the talented <a href="http://www.katiekettphotography.com/" target="_blank">Katie Kett</a>. Here's one of the whole team.<br />
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After another few hours of meeting we had an hour or so pre-dinner to do whatever we pleased. I walked around Michigan Avenue for a bit and changed into a favorite dress from <a href="http://www.parcboutique.com/" target="_blank">Parc Boutique</a>. The evening light in my hotel room was beautiful.<br />
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And here's a photo of the view from the lake side of the hotel. Navy Pier in all it's glory.<br />
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I walked to dinner with Megan, Juley, and Lauren. We all met at <a href="http://beatrixchicago.com/" target="_blank">Beatrix</a> and had a wonderful time. If you ever find yourself there, order the caramel pie for dessert. You will not regret it. Three hours passed in an instant and I was sad to have to say goodbye to everyone. Alaina, Danielle, Allyson and I went out for another glass of wine (because when in Chicago...) before we called it a night.<br />
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On Friday I woke up and went for a run along the lake. As much as I had been looking forward to every other aspect of the trip, this was one thing I couldn't wait to do. I'm (hopefully! pending a few nagging injuries..) running the Chicago Marathon this fall and I was so happy to get a taste of running in the city before then. And the views from these lakeside paths weren't too shabby, either.<br />
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From there I went to do a little work with Alaina, Danielle, and Allyson before flying out that evening. And I got to see <a href="http://instagram.com/ohlookitsbuddy" target="_blank">Buddy</a>! And Tuck! And Fiona! Alaina and Danielle have thee cutest pups.<br />
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To say I had a wonderful trip would be an understatement. The only disappointing thing was that I couldn't stay longer. It still blows my mind a little to see how much TEG has grown over the past few years, how much my role has changed, and how much I continue to love what I get to do for the site. From <a href="http://daydreamer-alifestyleblog.blogspot.com/2012/09/im-everygirl.html" target="_blank">graphic design intern</a> to associate editor, I've learned a ton over the past two years and have met so many amazing people along the way. I can't wait to see what the future has in store for The Everygirl.<br />
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I hope you all are having an amazing summer, and thanks so much for stopping by today! I promise I'll post again when inspiration strikes. In the meantime, feel free to follow along with my daily musings on <a href="https://twitter.com/jackiesaffert" target="_blank">twitter</a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/jackiesaffert" target="_blank">instagram</a>.</div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-86791900607162337512014-03-04T10:23:00.000-06:002014-03-04T10:26:39.684-06:0024<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today I turn 24. My first thought?</div>
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<i>Finally. </i></div>
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It's not that 23 was so awful, but everything certainly did not go<br />
as planned, and I'm ready for a fresh start. </div>
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Most people get their fresh start on January 1st, but I'm not much of a </div>
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New Year's Day girl. I didn't even make any resolutions this year. </div>
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As far as I'm concerned, my new year starts today.</div>
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I have big dreams and big goals for my life, and each<br />
birthday seems like a fresh start. </div>
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I wonder what me as a little kid would think of me today.</div>
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Is that too deep of a thought for a Tuesday?</div>
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Oh well.</div>
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I'm sure she would think I was <i>really</i> old.</div>
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Because as a kid 24 is ancient.</div>
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I hope she would be proud of me.</div>
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Although if I'm being honest, the fact that I'm neither a singer </div>
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nor a dolphin trainer would irritate little Jackie Jo to no end. </div>
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But she would get over it.</div>
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So here's to 24. </div>
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Here's to many reasons to smile, fits of laughter, late nights, </div>
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embarrassing moments, and probably a few tears along the way.</div>
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Here's to less time looking at a computer or phone screen </div>
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and more time living in the moment.</div>
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Here's to setting goals and going after them.</div>
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Like really getting my act together and going after them.</div>
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Here's to <a href="http://www.theeverygirl.com/" target="_blank">The Everygirl</a>, the reason for many of those late </div>
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nights but also so many proud moments.</div>
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Here's to this little piece of the internet, and here's to </div>
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you for reading along.</div>
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I'm off to a birthday brunch, because if you know </div>
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me, you know brunch is all I really need to be happy in life. </div>
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Okay fine - brunch, health, friends and family...</div>
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plus new episodes of Parks & Rec and<br />
New Girl, because I like sarcasm and I really like to laugh.<br />
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Here's to 24.</div>
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<i>image <a href="http://www.paperpony.net/2012/03/how-to-make-glitter-heart-cake-topper.html" target="_blank">via</a></i></div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-73938105510397655302014-02-11T10:38:00.000-06:002014-02-11T10:46:54.248-06:00Dear TargetDear Target,<br />
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Yesterday I was perusing my twitter feed when I discovered that you had just <a href="http://www.abullseyeview.com/2014/02/target-pinterest-party-design-partnership/" target="_blank">announced collaborations with three amazing bloggers</a> - <a href="http://ohjoy.blogs.com/my_weblog/" target="_blank">Joy</a>, <a href="http://www.poppytalk.com/" target="_blank">Jan</a> and <i><a href="http://witanddelight.com/" target="_blank">Kate</a> (!!!).</i> Kate lives in Minneapolis, so she gets her name italicized and exclamation marks, too. Anyway.<br />
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I know you've have some troubles these past few months, but I've stuck with you through it all. Because let's be honest: nobody else sells affordable, everyday toiletries and home goods in an aesthetically pleasing environment quite like you do. And nobody else makes me blatantly fall for their marketing tactics and <i>not</i> feel bad about myself for it quite like you do. Sometimes I think you should follow me around a store and see the things that end up in my cart, you know, to further your marketing strategies. Case in point:<br />
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<i>This DVD that's perfectly placed at the front of the store that I never knew I needed until right this moment? Yes! This dress that was hanging on the aisle that I don't have time to try on but that I somehow must have? Sure! E-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g in the newest Threshold or Nate Berkus home collections? Why not! </i><br />
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It's borderline embarrassing.<br />
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And then yesterday you announced those three collaborations and I remembered another reason why I've stuck with you. Because your collections with some of my favorite designers are incredible and make you even more of a force to be reckoned with. So if you couldn't already tell, I'm pretty excited for March 16th (and June and September, too).<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
Jackie<br />
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<i>But seriously, have you guys seen this? I'm so excited. </i></div>
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<i>And no, I promise no one told me to write this post, just in case anyone was wondering.</i> </div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-15737176475086427852013-11-27T10:29:00.001-06:002013-11-27T10:29:41.017-06:00Thoughts & UpdatesWell hello! It's been a little while, hasn't it? Almost two months to be exact...sorry about that. I've been wanting to post more, I really have! Sometimes I find myself looking at my blog, reading old posts and wanting to write, but I don't know what to say. Does that ever happen to any of you? It's a problem. I have still been reading my favorite blogs daily, so I'm not completely off the map. Today I wanted to check in with a few thoughts and updates in the hopes that it may trigger my inspiration and get me to start writing a little bit more.<i> Fingers crossed.</i><br />
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1. First and foremost, <a href="http://www.theeverygirl.com/" target="_blank">The Everygirl </a>relaunched last week! We went from this...<br />
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And I love love <i>love</i> it. If you've been reading my blog for a while you know just how much this website means to me. I've been with the TEG team since September 2012 and it is the most fun, rewarding work experience I've ever had. When I saw the new site for the first time, I couldn't have been more thrilled. It's easier to navigate, the design is beautiful, AND there's an <a href="http://shop.theeverygirl.com/" target="_blank">Everygirl shop!</a> I've also been named an <a href="http://theeverygirl.com/about" target="_blank">Associate Editor</a> along with Allyson at <a href="http://www.mimosasnthemorning.com/" target="_blank">Mimosas in the Morning</a> and I am so excited about it.<br />
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2. Relatedly, a few weeks ago I helped out at a shoot for The Everygirl and it was so. much. fun. The shoot was for a feature on Minneapolis favorite <a href="http://www.parcboutique.com/" target="_blank">Parc Boutique</a> and the amazing woman behind it, Thao Nguyen. It's the first feature I've coordinated from the start so I'm naturally really excited about it. Keep an eye out for the full feature early next year! Photography by the crazy talented Wing Ta of <a href="http://canarygrey.com/" target="_blank">Canary Grey</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUuTitgBpf3H7q2JQcDhrBKCiiBvliWypPlUmxb7bupXH8Dc5x9RyT1wHzxlykp4EXHfpOUsIymnn5CByLq67eJP7E5s2A6vWW62oIilAQj1iOFICCHRg_VfuUCwZU6xXztoSoHh25pIt2/s1600/Parc1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUuTitgBpf3H7q2JQcDhrBKCiiBvliWypPlUmxb7bupXH8Dc5x9RyT1wHzxlykp4EXHfpOUsIymnn5CByLq67eJP7E5s2A6vWW62oIilAQj1iOFICCHRg_VfuUCwZU6xXztoSoHh25pIt2/s1600/Parc1.jpg" /></a></div>
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3. Someway, somehow, I am slowly learning to cook. I have no idea where this sudden interest came from, but I'm just going with it. I think every single new recipe I try is from a blog or pinterest, and yesterday, I discovered a new favorite food blog. It's called <a href="http://www.halfbakedharvest.com/" target="_blank">Half Baked Harvest</a> and I think you should check it out immediately. I plan to make <a href="http://www.halfbakedharvest.com/kale-wild-rice-casserole/" target="_blank">this</a>, <a href="http://www.halfbakedharvest.com/creamy-caprese-quinoa-bake/" target="_blank">this</a>, and especially <a href="http://www.halfbakedharvest.com/caramelized-butternut-crispy-kale-fontina-pizza/" target="_blank">this pizza</a> as soon as possible.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6ulIpVx_sMZXOcSf72BlPL2w7jrL3mqxUJ0YrF4i4R0UxycPmfp-REia40B1HF0TKAdNwomDQpLpc8gkkQcqiGv5MdyXCpSqpl989Oi22gKqu_N2wnPtHVPkJzfjE8uZNl9jfysMSUnQ/s1600/HalfBakedHarvestPizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6ulIpVx_sMZXOcSf72BlPL2w7jrL3mqxUJ0YrF4i4R0UxycPmfp-REia40B1HF0TKAdNwomDQpLpc8gkkQcqiGv5MdyXCpSqpl989Oi22gKqu_N2wnPtHVPkJzfjE8uZNl9jfysMSUnQ/s1600/HalfBakedHarvestPizza.jpg" /></a></div>
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Can you believe how good this looks? And don't even get me started on the dessert recipes...<br />
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4. HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Thanksgiving is tomorrow and I couldn't possibly be more excited about the fact that the holidays are right around the corner. I love everything about them - the baking, the decorating, the gift giving, the time with friends and family, and just all of the joy that comes with this time of year.<br />
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5. Black Friday is just a few days away...are you participating this year? I'm one of the crazy people who actually enjoys going shopping in the early hours of the morning. It seems oddly festive to me. I'm not sure if I'll go this year but even if I don't, I'm sure I'll be taking advantage of Cyber Monday deals.<br />
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I hope you have a lovely day and a festive Thanksgiving tomorrow!</div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-51233582024902707262013-10-04T09:45:00.001-05:002013-10-04T09:47:49.772-05:00Happy Weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's feeling like fall in Minnesota and I couldn't be more thrilled about it. I'm finally able to pull out my favorite jackets, boots, and scarves. I also really love the felt hats I've been seeing a lot of lately, like in the photo above. I'm not sure if I would be able to wear one very often but I think they're really cute. The hat above is from <a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Felt-Fedora/10oh0v/?iid=2954102&cid=6992&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=9999&sort=-1&clr=Black&utm_source=Affiliate&utm_medium=LinkShare&utm_content=USNetwork.2954102&utm_campaign=QFGLnEolOWg&cvosrc=Affiliate.LinkShare.QFGLnEolOWg&link=15&promo=187202&source=linkshare&MID=35719&affid=2135&WT.tsrc=Affiliate&siteID=QFGLnEolOWg-I2aYsWv1nBhE22KJTPl4gw&r=2&mporgp=L0FTT1MvQVNPUy1GZWx0LUZlZG9yYS9Qcm9kLw.." target="_blank">Asos</a> and I'm sure I could find other inexpensive options, maybe at Zara or H&M. What are your thoughts on the felt hat trend?</div>
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Tonight I'm getting a much needed haircut at one of my favorite places, Aveda. I think if I were to tally up the amount of money I've spent at Aveda since my teenage years, it would be enough to feed a small country (proof <a href="http://instagram.com/p/S8dAt9JcWS/" target="_blank">here</a>). Hey, we weren't all born with perfect hair. </div>
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Saturday morning I'll be at an event for work. Waking up at 6 on a Saturday is not my favorite, but luckily the event is outside, so at least I'll get some fresh air in the process. Afterwards I'm meeting up with one of my best friends for brunch (cue excitement). I would, of course, love to make it to an apple orchard / pumpkin patch this weekend but I suppose that will just have to wait. Fall is young; there are plenty of weekends left for apples and pumpkins.</div>
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What are you up to this weekend? </div>
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image <i><a href="http://weworewhat.com/2013/10/burberry-booties-my-wardrobe/" target="_blank">via</a></i></div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-49297001298238909272013-10-03T07:00:00.000-05:002013-10-03T09:44:19.997-05:00The most delicious pumpkin cookies everIt's Thursday. Let's talk cookies.<br />
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I don't usually post about cooking or baking on the blog because I'm not an expert in either of those areas. However, today I'm making an exception because I feel it would be wrong not to share the recipe for the cookies I made last weekend. These cookies were <i>that</i> good. So good, in fact, that my co-workers are still talking about them days after I brought them in to work. They were pretty impressed.<br />
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Behold, <a href="http://parentpretty.com/pumpkin-cookies-recipe/" target="_blank">these melt-in-your-mouth pumpkin cookies</a>. If you like cookies, have at least minimal baking abilities, and if autumn is your favorite season, I suggest you make these as soon as possible.<br />
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But really. Make them. Your friends and family will thank you.<br />
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And if you have any other go-to fall recipes, please please feel free to share them in the comments! I'm all about trying something new. Happy baking!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Ingredients:</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 cups butter, softened</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 cups granulated sugar</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 teaspoons baking powder</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 teaspoons baking soda</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon salt</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon ground cinnamon</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon ground nutmeg</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 eggs</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 15-ounce can pumpkin</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">4 cups all-purpose flour</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Frosting:</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup butter</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup packed brown sugar</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1/4 cup milk</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon vanilla</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">3 to 4 cups powdered sugar (add until desired consistency/firmness)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl beat the 2 cups of butter with an electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds. Add granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, the 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and the nutmeg. Beat until combined. Beat in the eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla until combined. Beat in pumpkin. Beat in as much of the four as you can with the mixer. Stir in remaining flour with a wooden spoon.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. Drop dough by heaping teaspoons 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until tops are set. Transfer to wire racks to cool.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">3. For frosting, in a small saucepan heat the 1/2 cup butter and brown sugar until melted and smooth. Transfer to a medium bowl. Stir in milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Beat in powdered sugar until smooth. Spread frosting on cookies. Sprinkle with additional cinnamon if desired.</span></div>
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Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-10272206006221835742013-10-02T10:30:00.001-05:002013-10-02T10:36:35.524-05:00Lately<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Yesterday in a moment of downtime I glanced through a few recent blog posts and realized I hadn't posted any snapshots in months. </span><i style="color: #222222;">Months!</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> I thought I would take some time to catch you up on a few things that have been happening around here lately, and show you some photos from August and September.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Trying out the whole running before work thing. The city is so pretty that time of day but waking up at 5 really isn't my cup of tea.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. A quick froyo stop. One of my favorite summer activities. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">3. Played kickball on my friend's league one night. And I learned I am not the world's best kickball player.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">4. The prettiest farmers market flowers. They brightened up my apartment beautifully. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">5. I ate <i>so</i> many brunches with friends this summer. And you know how happy brunch makes me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">6. Northeast Minneapolis. One of my favorite neighborhoods in town.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">7. Lake Calhoun on a summer night.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">8. Working from the comfort of my apartment on a rainy night. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">9. I moved at the end of August. Even though I've moved eight times since I was a freshman in college five years ago, I still <a href="http://daydreamer-alifestyleblog.blogspot.com/2012/08/moving-day.html" target="_blank">get a little nostalgic</a> every time I pack up an apartment. After all, it was in front of that window that I sat at my desk and wrote over 160 blog posts and designed more than 60 features for </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.theeverygirl.com/" target="_blank">The Everygirl</a>. Lots of late nights and lots of fun along the way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">10. Summer nights on a patio in Uptown with friends. My favorite. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now summer is over and I'm enjoying my favorite season of the year. I've been pretty busy lately but I'm hoping to start posting a few times a week again. I really do miss it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hope you're having a lovely week. What have you been up to lately? I would love to get caught up!</span></div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-31845451098730959602013-09-13T06:00:00.000-05:002013-09-16T21:33:35.012-05:00Happy Weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi guys! Remember when I used to blog? Oh yeah, me too. I have been one busy lady lately and just haven't been able to fit in posting. I'm working on prioritizing my life a little more effectively at the moment. I've also been trying to figure out exactly what direction I want this blog to go in. I really love blogging, but I haven't quite found the blogging niche that makes me happiest. Lately my favorite blogs aren't fashion blogs but lifestyle blogs. I love reading thoughtful, wordy posts or just simple day in the life posts. Something insightful, something relatable. That's what gets me following along. Last night I reread a post I wrote almost nine months ago titled <a href="http://daydreamer-alifestyleblog.blogspot.com/2013/01/why-i-blog.html" target="_blank">Why I Blog</a>. It brought me back to all of the reasons I love posting here and I'm hoping I can get back into the swing of things soon.<br />
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This weekend is one of my best friend's birthdays and I'm so excited to celebrate with her. Lately it's been hard to get all of my close friends (the ones who are still in Minneapolis) together. Everyone is busy with work, family, and other commitments. But birthdays are always an excuse to see friends and I can't wait for the weekend to begin!<br />
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What are you up to this weekend? Any fun plans?</div>
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P.S. It feels like FALL outside as I write this and I just cannot contain my excitement. Everything about this season makes me happy. Yes I'm <i>that girl</i>.<br />
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image <i><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/39688040439787511/" target="_blank">via</a></i></div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-79757422031994657382013-08-16T13:03:00.002-05:002013-08-16T13:05:08.573-05:00A thought for a FridayI have been the <i>worst blogger ever </i>lately. I'm really sorry about that. One of these days I'll catch you up on all of the things that have been taking up so much of my time lately, but for now I wanted to share a quick piece of inspiration. I just saw the loveliest quote over on <a href="http://jesslively.com/you-dont-have-to-see-the-whole-staircase/" target="_blank">Jess Lively's site</a>.<br />
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<i>"Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase. Just take the first step."</i> When I read this my mind immediately went to one particular leap of faith that I've been pondering on a daily basis these past few weeks. And then immediately after that I thought of the obstacles I would surely face if I took this leap of faith. I may not have the courage to take the first step in faith quite yet, but finding quotes like this make me think that someday soon it might just be possible. </div>
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Did you think of one thing in particular when you read this quote? Or have you ever taken a leap of faith despite not having a clear plan for everything ahead? You know me, I would love to hear about it.</div>
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Happy Friday! I hope you have the best weekend.</div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-17601256366570137022013-08-08T11:04:00.001-05:002013-08-08T11:04:32.841-05:00On Being 23<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QGYIuMbbPGs/UgLsNWxpESI/AAAAAAAAFFw/XwkADhYpllQ/s1600/OnBeing23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QGYIuMbbPGs/UgLsNWxpESI/AAAAAAAAFFw/XwkADhYpllQ/s1600/OnBeing23.jpg" /></a></div>
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A few weeks ago I was talking to one of my best friends Erica on the phone. She lives in L.A. and I live in Minneapolis and we hardly ever get to see each other. Our phone conversations are always long and rambling and they bring out all of the things we're enlightened by or frustrated by at the moment. In this particular conversation we were talking about our futures and our career aspirations. She had just been hired that very day at a job she was really excited about after a very long, very frustrating job search. I have been in the midst of that same frustrating search for a while now. And to complicate things even more, we're both way too ambitious, and we're big time dreamers. Ambitious dreamers on a job search. We get each other.<br />
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While we were talking, I was reminded of the very last question that is asked in every <a href="http://www.theeverygirl.com/" target="_blank">Everygirl</a> career feature: "What advice would you give to your 23-year-old self?" I suppose when Alaina and Danielle were brainstorming all of the details of the site they decided that 23 was the year when the confusion really settles in. It's when many graduate from college. It's a year when most people are frustrated and confused and are in the process of searching for the career that will fulfill them for the rest of their lives. Everything that was stationary for the last four years is now uprooted. Friends are moving away, jobs are changing, and everything seems so very uncertain....yet exciting at the same time.<br />
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As 23-year-olds ourselves, my friend and I are feeling all of the effects of those changes and all of the pressure that comes with them. But who knows, maybe someday in the future everything will work out. Maybe all of the resumes we sent, the stress we felt, and the pressure we put on ourselves will lead to something really wonderful. Maybe it will all be worth it. Of course neither of us have any idea how everything will turn out, but we're hopeful, and despite the stress, we're certainly going to keep pushing forward in the direction of our dreams.<br />
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This is what 23 feels like. It's confusing and hopeful and stressful and fun. Hopefully someday I'll look back on this time and be thankful for the confusion I went through, and that I never stopped trying. Hopefully someday it will be worth it. I have a feeling it will.<br />
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Are any of you 23(ish) and going through the same confusing time? Or have you had a similar experience?<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here are some of my favorite quotes from those inspiring Everygirl ladies to their 23-year-old selves (with links to the features, in case you missed them):</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">"Oh I would tell her so much. But mostly I would tell her, it’s all going to be OK. To keep following your </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">gut even when people think you might be a bit on the crazy side. The crazy side is good."</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://theeverygirl.com/feature/abby-larson-of-style-me-pretty/" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;" target="_blank">Abby Larson</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"> - Style Me Pretty</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">"Please know that you aren’t making a mistake and you aren’t failing. Every step you take is </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">a </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">part of </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">your path, good or bad, don’t be afraid to follow it."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://theeverygirl.com/feature/kendi-skeen-of-kendi-everyday-and-bloom-boutique/" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;" target="_blank">Kendi Skeen</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"> - Kendi Everyday</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">"You’re not the kind of girl who settles. Keep not settling."</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://theeverygirl.com/feature/5285/" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;" target="_blank">Joy Wilson</a><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"> - Joy the Baker</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">"Be bolder. Make more mistakes. Fail fast and move forward."</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"><a href="http://theeverygirl.com/feature/lindsay-avner-of-bright-pink/" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;" target="_blank">Lindsay Avner</a><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"> - Bright Pink</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">"Don’t be distracted by what you think other people are thinking. Stop getting ahead of yourself. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">And (this is a big one): it’s OK to ask for help."</span></div>
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<a href="http://theeverygirl.com/feature/vanessa-holden-of-west-elm/" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;" target="_blank">Vanessa Holden</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"> - West Elm</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">"Everything can change in a year, a month, a day. So stop worrying if things aren’t going your way </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">for a short time. Nothing ever is what you predict it will be."</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"><a href="http://theeverygirl.com/feature/stacy-adimando-of-every-day-with-rachael-ray/" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;" target="_blank">Stacy Adimando</a><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"> - Every Day with Rachel Ray</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">"You are young and you are imperfect and that’s okay. No need to be frustrated that </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;">you’re not running the world just yet."</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"><a href="http://theeverygirl.com/feature/digital-marketing-manager-jenna-britton/" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;" target="_blank">Jenna Britton</a><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"> - Digital Marketing Manager</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.989583969116211px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy Thursday! So glad it's almost the weekend..</span></span></div>
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Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-82421242490895962972013-07-30T08:47:00.001-05:002013-07-30T09:12:23.082-05:00A weekend in my favorite city<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Most of you know I love Chicago. It's one of those cities I cannot visit enough. I love that it's bigger than Minneapolis but still very walkable. I love that it's right on Lake Michigan. I love the architecture. I love that it still has that friendly midwestern vibe. I love the shopping and the restaurants. And I love the friends who call it home that I get to visit when I'm there. I think you get the point. I really love this city. So it's no surprise then that I had a wonderful time while visiting this past weekend. I stayed with a good friend from high school / college while I was in town. I took in the sights and ate so much good food. I also got to spend some time with my lovely editors over at <a href="http://www.theeverygirl.com/" target="_blank">The Everygirl</a>, <a href="http://www.livecreatingyourself.com/" target="_blank">Alaina</a> and <a href="http://www.breakfastattoast.com/" target="_blank">Danielle</a>. Here's a little recap of the entire weekend.<br />
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Weekends in Chicago never ever seem to be long enough. I can't wait to visit again soon.</div>
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I hope you had a great weekend!<br />
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P.S. Feel free to follow along on <a href="http://instagram.com/jackiesaffert/" target="_blank">instagram</a> @jackiesaffert </div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-80298623457977443392013-07-24T08:36:00.001-05:002013-07-24T08:36:51.907-05:00A Zara Wish List<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Other than the indecisive weather patterns there are few things I dislike about Minneapolis. The people are friendly (Minnesota nice is real), there are lots of great outdoor trails and parks to frequent in the summer, and there are tons of wonderful restaurants as well. But what is Minneapolis missing? Zara. And what a shame, too. I <i>love</i> Zara. Like a lot. I looked up the nearest store to where I'm staying in Chicago this weekend and it is six blocks away. Six! I'm so excited. These are a few of the dresses I would love to pick up while I'm in town. </span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.zara.com/us/en/new-collection/woman/dresses/dress-with-knotted-panels-at-the-back-c269185p1295137.html" target="_blank">navy</a> <i>79.90</i> // <a href="http://www.zara.com/us/en/new-collection/woman/dresses/dress-with-sheer-details-c269185p1414750.html" target="_blank">white</a> <i>69.90</i> // <a href="http://www.zara.com/us/en/new-collection/woman/dresses/sarong-dress-with-straps-c269185p1296552.html" target="_blank">multi</a> <i>69.90</i></div>
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I love all of the subtle details; the knots on the back of the navy dress and the sheer panels on the white dress. Simple and classic with a twist. I suppose the one good thing about having a Zara far away from me is that it's all the more exciting when I do get to go. The silver lining.<br />
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I hope you have a happy Wednesday!</div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-28989513093039534862013-07-22T09:05:00.002-05:002013-07-22T09:14:33.981-05:00Snapshots Lately<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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With July more than halfway over, I'm starting to realize this summer is going to come to an end before I know it. One of my best friends has always joked (much to my annoyance) that July 4th is the start of the end of summer. I always hated when he said that, but I must admit that sometimes it seems to be true. The moment July 5th strikes Target sets up their Back to School section and starts to display fall clothing (and Target is what I use to set my standards, if you haven't yet noticed). But this year, instead of being stressed out by the impending end of summer, I'm simply more aware that I need to make the most of this season. I'm going to eat ice cream, sit on patios with friends, dine al fresco, and go for long runs along the river. It's going to be lovely.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">My view of Minneapolis on the way to work. // Ice cream. A summer staple. // Morning stripes + caffeine. // The most delicious black bean quinoa burger + kale salad from </span><a href="http://birchwoodcafe.com/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="text-align: center;">. // Sunday brunch at </span><a href="http://www.sunstreetbreads.com/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Sun Street Breads</a><span style="text-align: center;">. // Found a copy of the Young House Love </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1579654789/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=1579654789&link_code=as3&tag=thiyouhou-20" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">book</a><span style="text-align: center;">. Discovered </span><a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">the blog</a><span style="text-align: center;"> a few months ago and it's now</span><br />
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one of my favorites.<br />
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This week I'm looking forward to a long weekend in Chicago. For those of you who have been reading for a while, you know how much I love the city. I will be leaving bright and early Thursday morning and I can't wait to spend time with a good friend plus Alaina and Danielle of <a href="http://www.theeverygirl.com/" target="_blank">The Everygirl</a>. I've been working with them for over 10 months but haven't seen them since September. It should be lots of fun. But until then, I have a large to do list to tackle, so I'm off to work on that.<br />
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I hope your week is off to a great start!</div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-33536214189672051542013-07-12T09:25:00.001-05:002013-07-12T09:25:32.740-05:00Happy Weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Friday everyone! It is almost the weekend and I could not be more excited. I know I say that every Friday, but that's simply because it's always true. I met some friends for drinks last night and had a wonderful time catching up with them, but I'm definitely feeling the effects of that this morning. Lack of sleep + lack of coffee is never really the best combination. <i>But </i>on the bright side, I am just a few short hours away from the a few days off and that makes up for everything. </div>
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I plan to take it easy tonight, relax, and get a little work done (but <i>fun </i>work - like blogging & <a href="http://theeverygirl.com/" target="_blank">TEG</a>). Tomorrow morning I have big plans to make it to an early yoga class. I'm trying to sleep in just a little less than I usually do so I can get a jump start on my two favorite days of the week. On Saturday night I have plans with friends and Sunday is wide open at this point. I am going to try to make a brunch happen, though. No surprise there. Oh! Sunday is also my mom's birthday. If you're reading this mom, happy early birthday! You don't look a day over 30. ;)</div>
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I hope you all have a lovely weekend. Spend some time outdoors, some time relaxing, and some time with family and friends. Isn't that how all weekends should be spent? I think so.</div>
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image <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/39688040439287682/" target="_blank"><i>via</i></a></div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-76051234688710439802013-07-08T09:18:00.001-05:002013-07-08T09:20:22.642-05:00Snapshots Lately<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Last night I was catching up on a few blogs and brainstorming for daydreamer when I noticed I hadn't posted since June 26th. Almost two weeks! I am simply not okay with that. I have had a long to do list for the blog for months (which includes posting regularly again) and I am determined to tackle it, little by little. This weekend I <i>finally</i> updated the <a href="http://daydreamer-alifestyleblog.blogspot.com/p/about-me.html" target="_blank">About Me</a> section of the blog. I hadn't touched it since last May so it was definitely in need of a redo. I still need to update that photo, though... Baby steps. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">On another note, I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday! I had four lovely days away from work and it felt pretty incredible to have such a long, calming weekend. I spent lots of time outdoors, relaxing and going for runs along the river. I couldn't even bring myself to go to a yoga class this weekend - there's just something about the Fourth of July that makes me want to spend every moment outside.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A stop for fro yo recently. Definitely a summer necessity. // J. Crew jewels in gold and seafoam green. I want them <i>all</i>. // Fresh watermelon and pineapple. // Essie holiday festivity. // Trips to Target are even better with Starbucks in hand. // I have my eye on <a href="https://www.madewell.com/madewell_category/SHIRTSTOPS/blouses/PRDOVR~01613/01613.jsp" target="_blank">this top.</a> Waiting for it to go on sale.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And now it's Monday. I have a million things to tackle at the office this week. I'm hoping these next five days are extremely productive and that they pass by quickly. I'm kind of already counting down to next weekend. I hope you all have a wonderful day!</span></span></div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-91636898546530749772013-06-26T09:34:00.002-05:002013-06-26T09:37:06.978-05:00Shiny ShoesThe other day while browsing through the <a href="http://geronimoballoons.com/" target="_blank">Geranimo Balloons</a> instagram feed I discovered <a href="http://instagram.com/p/ZrJcx8L-Vm/" target="_blank">the loveliest photo</a> of gold metallic oxfords. GOLD METALLIC OXFORDS. I kind of couldn't believe how pretty they were. Maybe a little impractical, but so awesome. Naturally I followed up this discovery by doing some internet window shopping for other metallic shoes. This (of course) led me to <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/" target="_blank">J. Crew</a>, where I found so many pretty pairs. These are a few of my favorites.<br />
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<a href="http://rstyle.me/~ALTa" target="_blank">wedges</a> | <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/79ssqzvn" target="_blank">oxfords</a> | <a href="http://rstyle.me/~ALTj" target="_blank">sandals</a> | <a href="http://rstyle.me/~ALTs" target="_blank">flats</a><br />
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This whole metallic shoe thing might be a temporary trend, but I'm hoping it stays around a while. I'm also hoping to get one of these fancy pairs. I'm thinking the Lillian wedge, because I've been wanting them <i>forever</i>. </div>
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What do you think of metallic shoes? Pretty and fun or maybe a little much?</div>
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Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-42119158284751542492013-06-19T06:30:00.000-05:002013-06-19T06:30:00.695-05:00Snapshots of Late<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm headed back to work today after a wonderful four day weekend. This was supposed to be the weekend that I went to Kansas City to visit friends and see Mumford & Sons. But as you may have heard, the band cancelled three of their shows after their bassist Ted had to have emergency brain surgery. It sounds like he's doing well, and I'm wishing him all the best!<br />
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After the concert was cancelled, the trip was, too. Definitely a bummer, but I'm planning another weekend trip or two later this summer so it's ok. And on the bright side, it gave me two extra days to relax and get things done.<br />
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It is definitely feeling like summer here in Minneapolis. As much as I dislike the heat (I would much rather have fall temps) I love all of the activities that come along with summer. I love sleeping with the windows open, going for impromptu runs at night, and the fact that the sun rises early and sets late. It's a pretty amazing season.<br />
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I'm taking <i>forever</i> to finish Grace Coddington's memoir, but I really love it so far. I read a little most nights before bed and I've found it's a much better way to unwind than watching an episode of Parks & Rec, which was what I did for a while. (I still love you Ron Swanson.)<br />
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This past weekend was jam packed with festivities. My roommate's best friend was in town for the weekend, and we went out both nights. On Saturday we checked out the most adorable art fair on St. Anthony Main and ate dinner at a restaurant along the river. I also went to brunch with my brother and sister-in-law. It was such a treat; I rarely get to see those two!<br />
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I'm looking forward to a short week and happy hour with friends on Thursday. I've been trying to make time to get together with friends during the week lately. It always seems to make the work week go a little bit faster.<br />
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How is your week going so far? Only three days left until the weekend! </div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-74799385093185078452013-06-13T09:15:00.001-05:002013-06-13T09:16:33.206-05:00Summer Sun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As I'm sure you're well aware, summer is (finally) in full swing. With it comes all of the outdoor activities everyone loves: picnics, days at the beach, parades, dining al fresco, and also lots of time in the sun. This summer I am finally becoming more proactive about protecting my skin from the sun.<br />
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I don't know why took me so long to realize how important sun protection is, but I'm glad I'm finally seeing it now. Skin cancer and premature skin aging are no joke, and I intend to do everything possible to prevent both.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_-4eXj4SsGXpKe7ie3g-YtLN01JdP_sY0V1WnNqOz6-cowEVjpNmq46sIH0OTwSjdM5k19p6yA43XE8YrtylVRBBOMArNHNkILqX1hZaO1VVpovia2xov9mQ-M-U8Ttk0Ct-2lF8iEeOR/s1600/summersun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_-4eXj4SsGXpKe7ie3g-YtLN01JdP_sY0V1WnNqOz6-cowEVjpNmq46sIH0OTwSjdM5k19p6yA43XE8YrtylVRBBOMArNHNkILqX1hZaO1VVpovia2xov9mQ-M-U8Ttk0Ct-2lF8iEeOR/s1600/summersun.jpg" /></a></div>
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j. crew <a href="http://rstyle.me/~z8E0" target="_blank">straw hat</a> | j. crew <a href="http://rstyle.me/~z8E3" target="_blank">panama hat</a></div>
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michael kors <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/52a4qzvn" target="_blank">sunglasses</a></div>
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aveeno <a href="http://www.aveeno.com/product/aveeno-+daily+moisturizing+lotion+with+broad+spectrum+spf+15.do?sortby=ourPicks&from=fn" target="_blank">lotion SPF 15</a> | smashbox <a href="http://rstyle.me/n/umzkqzvn" target="_blank">photo finish primer SPF 20</a> | neutrogena <a href="http://www.neutrogena.com/product/ultra+sheer+dry-touch+sunscreen+broad+spectrum+spf+55.do?sortby=ourPicks" target="_blank">sunscreen SPF 55</a><br />
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My summer sun essentials are pretty straightforward. I just bought the J. Crew panama hat and I <i>love </i>it. I think every single person on my instagram feed owns the same one. It's a keeper. I also love a good pair of sunglasses. Michael Kors makes my favorites. </div>
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For skin care products, I'm obsessed with Aveeno's daily moisturizing lotion. It feels like normal lotion but has SPF 15 built in. I also love the Smashbox primer with SPF 20 and the above Neutrogena sunscreen is my absolute favorite. Whatever you prefer to use, it's so important to wear sunscreen every. single. day. Not just in the summer, but all year round.</div>
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Along with the preventative measures above, you should be sure to visit your dermatologist for an annual exam. That way if anything is wrong, they can catch it before it gets too serious. I have mine scheduled for next week.</div>
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What are your favorite summer skin care products? I would love to know!</div>
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Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-7619094902608078872013-06-04T09:11:00.001-05:002013-06-04T09:13:49.464-05:0013 in 13<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BCWSGv984YM/Ua1vQBP1eKI/AAAAAAAAE88/PWuUrqHiIKw/s1600/13in13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BCWSGv984YM/Ua1vQBP1eKI/AAAAAAAAE88/PWuUrqHiIKw/s1600/13in13.jpg" /></a></div>
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I've always considered summer to be the months of June, July, and August. None of this June 21st through September 21st business. Since when does it still feel like summer on September 21st? Since never. With my impeccable math skills, I count that out to be 13 weeks. Thirteen weeks of summer sun and lots of time outdoors. Even though I now have a full time job and summer isn't quite as magical as it was when I was going to school, there's still something about this time of year. Last night I looked outside at 9 pm and smiled at the fact that it was still light out. I mean, how wonderful is that?<br />
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So to commemorate the change in seasons, I thought I would make a list of goals for this summer. Thirteen of them to be exact. One for each week. Some are simple and some are big, but I'm crossing my fingers I'll accomplish them all over the next three months.<br />
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1. <b>Travel to St. Louis to visit friends and see Mumford & Sons.</b> (!!!) This one is already in the works and I am so excited.<br />
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2. Take five minutes out of each and every day to <b>write down or think of things I'm than<span id="goog_1468369988"></span><span id="goog_1468369989"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a>kful for</b>.<br />
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3. <b>Read at least 3 books.</b> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Lean-In-Women-Work-Will/dp/0385349947" target="_blank">Lean In</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Paris-Wife-A-Novel/dp/0345521307" target="_blank">The Paris Wife</a> are both on my list. Any other recommendations?<br />
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4. <b>Go on a picnic</b>. And in general, dine al fresco as often as possible.<br />
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5. <b>Find a job that I love</b>.<br />
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6. <b>Try at least 3 new recipes</b>.<br />
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7. <b>Go to happy hour after work. A few times</b>. This may seem simple but with my schedule during the week it's tough. But how fun is happy hour on a perfect summer night? Super fun.<br />
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8. <b>Go to a movie in the park</b>. One of my favorite summer activities.<br />
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9. <b>Check my phone less</b>. I'm looking at you G-mail, Twitter, and Instagram.<br />
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10. <b>Redesign the blog. Or at least update it</b>. My to do list for daydreamer is pretty long, and I think I've been avoiding it for that very reason.<br />
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11. <b>Take a trip to my favorite city</b>. Chicago, I miss you.<br />
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12. <b>Go to an outdoor festival or fair.</b> In Minneapolis I love the State Fair, the Uptown Art Fair, and the Basilica Block Party, to name a few.<br />
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13. <b>See a fireworks show</b>. Or two or three.<br />
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What are you most looking forward to doing this summer?</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">images via <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/39688040439058055/" target="_blank">1</a> // <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/39688040437216062/" target="_blank">2</a> // <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/39688040439061224/" target="_blank">3</a></span></div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-80754053081027641952013-05-31T08:52:00.001-05:002013-05-31T08:52:59.439-05:00A thought for the weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Earlier this week I was watching a talk and interview with Sheryl Sandberg on <a href="http://www.levoleague.com/" target="_blank">Levo League</a>. In the middle of the segment, Sheryl posed the question, "What would you do if you weren't afraid?" Ever since then I've been thinking of how I would respond to that question and I've come up with a long list of answers. A list of things I would do if I weren't afraid of being judged, afraid of making the wrong decision, afraid of failing. Something to ponder this weekend if you have a spare moment. And if you have a spare hour, you should check out the entire talk with Sheryl on Levo League <a href="http://www.levoleague.com/officehours/sheryl-sandberg#" target="_blank">here</a>. It's pretty wonderful.<br />
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On another note, I'm so thankful the weekend is finally here! I plan to sleep in (big shocker there), spend time with friends, and check out an <a href="http://www.parcboutique.com/shop-talk/cheers-to-five-years/" target="_blank">anniversary sale</a> at my favorite neighborhood shop, <a href="http://www.parcboutique.com/" target="_blank">Parc Boutique</a>. If you're in Minneapolis you should definitely stop by! I also have a constantly growing to do list and lots of things that need to be accomplished this weekend. Hopefully I can find a balance between productivity, relaxation, and time with friends.<br />
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Happy weekend to you! What are your plans?</div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-10308167674563405042013-05-29T08:33:00.001-05:002013-05-29T08:34:28.428-05:00This JacketEvery single time I walk into J. Crew (as often as humanly possible) I immediately lay eyes on at least one new thing I <i>have to have</i>. It can happen in the shoe section, the jewelry section, the sale section, or any of the other (perfectly styled) areas of the store. Once I spot this one thing, I ponder. Should I buy it? Would I wear it enough? Is it going to be in style next year? What about the year after? These are just a few of the questions that run through my head.<br />
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Then, once I've thought long and hard, I either justify it and head to the register or I leave without it and then think about it for weeks to come until it A) goes out of stock before I can make up my mind or B) ends up in my closet after all. It sounds exhausting, I know.<br />
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Now that you have this fascinating back story to paint yourselves a picture, let me introduce you to the newest object of my affection. <a href="http://rstyle.me/~x1PT" target="_blank">This jacket</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uHUucjmChBs/UaWXJtDeMDI/AAAAAAAAE8A/9DvlZ1LmmxI/s1600/jcrew-jacket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uHUucjmChBs/UaWXJtDeMDI/AAAAAAAAE8A/9DvlZ1LmmxI/s1600/jcrew-jacket.jpg" /></a></div>
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It comes in a mossy brown color as well and I would just love to add it to my closet. Decisions, decisions. What do you think of this utilitarian style? Hit or miss? And is there anything at the Crew that you've had your eye on lately?<br />
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Happy Wednesday! </div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-21258647361722286562013-05-28T09:01:00.001-05:002013-05-28T09:01:32.025-05:00Weekend SnapshotsThank God for long weekends. Am I right? They're one of my favorite things...ever. This weekend I spent lots of time catching up on sleep and relaxing. I also did a bit of work, went shopping, stopped by <a href="http://www.pizzerialola.com/" target="_blank">Pizzeria Lola</a>, and went to my favorite yoga sculpt class. The one downside to this otherwise perfect weekend was the dreary weather. It was chilly and cloudy all weekend. Oh how I can't wait for the warmer, sunnier days of summer.<br />
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And now it's back to work for this girl. Is it bad that I'm already looking forward to Friday afternoon? Maybe...or maybe that's just normal. Either way, I hope your week is off to a great start!<br />
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How was your weekend? Did you do anything fun?</div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5847110382034720006.post-28750491729123436342013-05-16T09:04:00.001-05:002013-05-16T09:04:25.851-05:00Lately<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Lately I've been a little busy. Okay, really busy. I feel like I'm barely keeping up with everything, constantly at odds with some portion or another of my life. Work has been crazy. I have <a href="http://theeverygirl.com/" target="_blank">an internship that I love</a>, but it keeps me very busy as well. In whatever spare time I can find I work out, just because that helps me<br />
de-stress and makes me happy. And then at the end of every day I'm just exhausted, but I never have time to get enough sleep. I've been trying to spend time with family and friends, but that hasn't been happening nearly as much as I'd like. <i>I read somewhere (or a million different places) that your twenties are for flailing, for making mistakes, and for figuring out who you are. If that's true then apparently I am right on track. </i><br />
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Lately I've also been on the job hunt. I've had this longing to move to Chicago for <i>years</i>. Since high school in fact. I looked at colleges in Chicago, but the private school I wanted to attend ended up being too expensive and I fell back on the University of Minnesota. I had a lovely time there, but now that I've finished my undergrad this feeling has come back again. <i>I want to move to Chicago.</i> I've found over the years that I learn and grow much more when I'm in a new environment. I feel like life in Minneapolis has become a little stagnant and a little uninspired. So in the rest of my spare time (ha!) I've been searching for jobs in Chicago.<br />
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Then there's this little blog, which I have been neglecting much more than I like to think about. I either don't have time to write, or when I do have time, I have no energy to compose a post inspiring or coherent enough to publish. To be honest, I've sometimes wondered whether or not I should keep daydreamer. I know I should, and I will, because I love being a part of this wonderful community of inspiring people. And when I do have time and energy to write, it's <i>so much fun,</i> and so refreshing to discuss the things that inspire me and the topics that are important to me.<br />
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Erin Gates wrote a post earlier this week <a href="http://www.elementsofstyleblog.com/2013/05/on-being-in-your-thirties.html" target="_blank">on being in your thirties</a>. Erin's post focused on the decision to have children and the judgement and difficulties that often come with the fact that she doesn't have any kids yet at age 33. She is such an inspiration and has an amazing career, but I have a feeling that if Erin wrote a post on being in your twenties when she was 23, she would have said she was flailing a bit, too. I guess every decade has brand new challenges that come along with it. And so far my twenties have been a mix of confusion and inspiration as I try to figure out my life.<br />
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Please know that I don't mean to complain. I realize I have so many things to be thankful for and I am always counting my blessings. But honesty is the best policy when it comes to blogging, and lately I've been a little stressed. So bear with me if you will. Posts may be a little sporadic for the time being, but I'll still be here. You guys are the best.<br />
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image <a href="http://theeverygirl.com/feature/how-to-style-the-west-elm-parsons-desk/" target="_blank">via</a></div>
Jackiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14170170827345184780noreply@blogger.com5