(The smoke + ash was so bad, the masks were necessary….)

TJ and I snuck away Saturday night, for a parent’s night away. We headed up to Santa Barbara, aware of the fires close to the area, but not aware of the heavy layer of smoke and ash that filled the sky.

And while the conditions were less than ideal (I feel terrible for all those impacted, and those who continue to be, by the fire’s destruction) we decided that we weren’t going to let it put a damper on our time together. Hey, we were childless, schedule-less, and in one of our favorite cities in Ca. So, we headed to the local library, grabbed some medical masks (they were graciously giving them out), and headed to the funk zone. We tasted wine, ate good food, napped, and then enjoyed some evening libations at one of our favorite spots, all while listening to piano music. It was a subtle reminder to me that life isn’t about everything being perfect (less than ideal weather conditions, many of our favorite spots closed down….), but it’s about surrounding yourself with people who fill your soul… those people who, no matter the situation, you can have a good time with…

So, as we head into the last two weeks of the holiday season, I want to hold onto that small reminder that life is more about who you spend it with, than what you spend it doing. It’s often in those imperfect moments that you end up having the most “perfect” time with those you love (if you allow it to happen). I hope you all have a great week friends! xx

(A new favorite rosé… so crisp….)

(Mix and matched my favorite casual pieces for an afternoon of wine tasting. Cami, Jacket(a lot of similar jackets here), Jeans, Mules (also loving all of these casual mules))

(Nightcaps at one of our favorite piano bar spots…. Belmond El Encanto)

(All black for a fun night out: booties, leggings (loving these leather legging options too), cami, blazer)

(Grabbed a quick brunch at Malibu Farm on the way home… we actually tasted our good….)
____________

Took the weekend off from working out, but looking forward to a few long runs this week, along with a spin date with TJ early Tuesday morning. I’ve also noticed such a difference in using heavier weights with my leg/booty workouts. I highly recommend it if you’re looking to really tone that area!

There have been so many cute new arrivals in stores lately, so I’ve added a few items to me Christmas list… and picked up a few pieces for a few events we have in the next few weeks. I think this blush cardigan is super cute, as is this wrap front sweater (such a cute basic), and lightweight white sweater (#obsessed). I recently purchased this super super super (it’s really soft, can you tell) fleece zip-up and since it’s so hot here in CA, I’ve been wearing it to lounge around the house (and it’s currently on sale!). These blush joggers + sweatshirt combo are on my list too, and how cute is this rose colored fuzzy sweater (perfect for someone who loves comfort!). I also think this swiss dot top is gorgeous for the holidays.

If you’re still looking for some cozy Christmas pajamas, I’m loving this plaid set, this super soft set that comes in several different cute prints (I featured it here), and this red + white thermal top + pants combo is adorable (and an amazing price point…).

Urban Outfitters also has some of the cutest cozy wear pieces… perfect as a gift, or for yourself. I recently received this oversized mock neck sweater (in the muave color), furry house slides, velvet pillow, and this super soft throw blanket (in the mauve color), as well as this high low sweater.

With the holiday indulgences in full swing, keeping up with my workouts has helped me feel balanced. I recently bought these camo leggings (and love them)…. as well as this rose colored pullover and this velour gray hoodie. Great options to take you from post-workout to regular life.

Annnd, lastly, I’m on the hunt for a new pair of jeans. I have my eye on this darker wash of a favorite pair I already own, high waisted + slightly distressed option, and this high waisted skinny option.