30 April 2020

Yoga With Adrienne


I don't work out. Period. Or maybe I should rewrite that sentence and change it to "I don't work out, unless it involves Yoga With Adrienne". Years ago I was looking for free yoga classes as an alternative to a gym and studio classes and landed on Adrienne's page. I was totally blown away and excited to sign up for her annual January practice, where she shares 30 days of new free yoga classes as part of a challenge. Since my first January journey I have been consistent in my practice ever since. She provides a monthly calendar, which makes it so easy to follow along and is so positive and calming it's easy to be inspired. Each practice is 20-30 minute long (there are a few longer and longer too!) and even when I'm not in the mood to do one, I force myself to and leave the mat smiling and happy. There is a class for everyone and almost every mood, so I encourage you to give it a try!

Happy Thursday,

ARS xx
S U B S C R I B E

29 April 2020

Mini Muse: Phyllis Nefler from Troop Beverly Hills

If I had to pick a movie character that best represented my Mom, I'd say it's Phyllis Nefler in Troop Beverly Hills. They both are a little unconventional, have a huge heart, and were very fashion forward at the time. Her flair for life and always on point outfits have inspired me time and time again. If you haven't watched this movie, you should (and you should check out this multiple roundup of movies and shows to watch!). In the spirit of being optimistic this week, I'm rounding up a few of my favorite Troop Beverly Hills outfits!






Wishing I had half the style she did,

ARS xx
S U B S C R I B E

28 April 2020

Artist Love: Jamie Beck

I don't typically gravitate towards photography, but when my Dad sent me Jamie Beck's #IsolationCreation series I fell in love. Not only have I been longing to take a flower arrangement class, but Dutch Old Master Still Life paintings are some of my favorite works of art so I shouldn't have been too surprised I was drawn to this artist. The series feels so timely and falls in line with my dark sense of humor. I love how the artist captures each day's mood so accurately. To commemorate this really strange time in our life, I may allow myself one small purchase. Below are a few of my favorites.







Happy Tuesday,

ARS xx
S U B S C R I B E

27 April 2020

Pretty Pins for a Glass Half Full Kind of Week

Even though I'm an optimist, I've really struggled with finding more silver linings as of late. The weather is miserable, we still have three weeks of lockdown, and everyone's patience is starting to wear more than a bit thin.  Last week was especially challenging because my Grandmother fell, broke her hip, and had to go in for emergency surgery and the next day my Aunt had to have two toes amputated. I've certainly been tested and while I've certainly been shifting my perspective, I haven't gotten to a place of understanding quite yet. I don't think I'm alone, but I certainly feel more alone.  This past weekend I needed a break from the monotony, so I drove over to a neighboring town and explored - distantly, of course - and it really brightened up my day! That simple routine shakeup really boosted my spirits and gave me the jolt I needed to get me back on a more half-glass-full kind of path. This is a spa week for me so I'm only looking for the positives!






Sending positive light your way,

ARS xx
S U B S C R I B E 

24 April 2020

Currently...



Planning a spa week for next week. Has anyone else found themselves lacking in their self care routine? I've definitely let my beauty routine, workout regimen, and diet go to the wayside. Next week will be dedicated to an at home version of a week long detox/spa. Just wondering if I should include a digital detox as well...


Adjusting my budget for May. Like many others, I'm really feeling the financial crunch and am making cuts to my budget anywhere and everywhere. May will be the first month I don't receive a paycheck on any kind, so I'll be making a lot of hard cuts and relying on my emergency fund to cover my four walls. I'd rather think this through now, so I can plan accordingly. I'm praying the quarantine ends soon and that I have a job to go back to when this is all over. To say I'm nervous is an understatement! Image from this Etsy shop.


Researching Nancy Meyers. I've been living under a rock the past few decades (!) and just discovered the woman behind a large number my favorite movies is Nancy Meyers. I mean, the outfits and homes are always on point, as is the plot line. Every one of her movies screams cozy, chic, and very aspirational in style for me.


Flipping through vintage Martha Stewart magazines. I'm talking 1990s Martha Stewart magazines that I found in my mom's office. As a diehard Martha fan ever since I can remember, this is giving me life right now and a fresh dose of inspiration!


Trying to stay sane after a full month of being in quarantine. This week has been extremely trying and very stressful, so I'm ready for the weekend! As a special treat my sister ordered us a growler of coffee from my favorite local coffee shop.

Hoping you're also feeling a bit more cheerful this week,

ARS xx
S U B S C R I B E




23 April 2020

Instagram Love: Tallwood Country House

Um, hello new favorite instagram account to follow! I don't know much about Jenny Bohannon beyond her beyond amazing instagram account filled with a beautiful house filled with stunning artwork and antiques, baby ducks (!!), and adorable children. However, I hope to see articles featuring her and her histroy in design so we can get to know her better. She has created a house that looks to be filled with happiness and love - the ultimate dream! If I were to create a vision board of what I want my future to look like I would heavily reference Tallwood for the home section. From the beautiful vintage toile wallpaper to the English Country feel, I'm in love. I have a special place in my heart for animals running around the house, as I grew up with 20 rabbits hopping around freely, so the ducks having free range is what makes this feel especially right for me. Below are a few highlights from her instagram account.






Dreaming of my future home, 

ARS xx

22 April 2020

Three TV Show and Movie Roundups to Check Out

Recently, I've been sounding like a broken record constantly alternating between "I can't believe this is happening" and "it's the little things that count". When everything first started I became too connected and obsessing over every news story, only to realize almost every article was fear mongering at it's finest and I just needed to step away. Stepping away meant basically going dark on all news websites and tv, social media, and upping my reading and painting game. To save my sister's sanity (and my own) I'm now allowing myself to watch some tv at night and below are a few great roundups of tv shows and movies that caught my eye.


If you're a movie buff...why not check out Molly Mookamp's roundup of 85 movies to watch? A huge list organized by decade and even includes a little synopsis of each film. How did I know it was a winner? Troop Beverly Hills made the cut!


If you're looking for a more focused list and love design, be sure to check out Architectural Digest's list of 36 interior design shows to watch. I can't wait to discover a few new shows on this list and re-watch a few favorites, like Fixer Upper.


Refinery29 has a list of comedy marathons to check out. I'm looking for laughs anywhere I can get them, so this is the list I'll be checking out first. There are a few known to me solid picks (The B in Apartment 23 and Derry Girls), so I have a feeling this is a good roundup!

What are you watching? Always looking for a recommendation,

ARS xx
S U B S C R I B E


21 April 2020

Pretty Pins for A Shift in Perspective

I can't believe it's been already a month of lockdown and there is still at least another month to go. While I initially felt a lot of uncertainty and fear, I find myself slowing becoming a bit more positive and looking for silver linings wherever I can. Don't get me wrong, I still have lots of fear driven and anxious moments, but I'm beginning to shift my mindset a bit. Although the days are blending together, I am very grateful for the fact I'm able to work a handful of hours this week. See? Little wins are keeping me going right now. Ann Mashburn wrote a fantastic article on her blog about perspective and to be honest, it gave me the reality check I needed. Below is a roundup of images that are inspiring me to change my perspective and inspire me to get me through this week.






Slowly finding the silver linings in this quarantine, 

ARS xx

20 April 2020

Matouk X Schumacher

I adore my Matouk linens. They were a purchase I agonized over for years before committing and I have absolutely no regrets. I was really nervous spending that kind of money on linens, but ultimately it paid off. I have gotten more than my money's worth out of them and even after 5+ years they still bring a smile to my face every single day. The quality is fantastic, they are made in America, and the brand values very much so align with mine. Can you tell I'm a fan? Imagine my excitement when I read about their collaboration with Schumacher, another chic brand I admire. It's a match made in heaven and makes total sense. A personal favorite is the Pomegranate duvet in Coral and just may need to splurge on when this is all over!





Anyone else itching to make a few upgrades to their home? Looking for a friend,

ARS xx
S U B S C R I B E




17 April 2020

Currently...



Loving the face masks I bought on Etsy. I'm so thankful I pushed and bought the face masks when I did, because it's now mandated we must wear them in public places where social distancing isn't an option. The seller I bought from was very sweet and they shipped quickly and are of fantastic quality.


Having a style mid-coronavirus crisis. As I've mentioned before, I'm not buying anything at the moment which is a great thing, not just for my wallet but probably my closet as well. Recently I've been drawn to look and styles that are so not me that I'm getting worried about myself. I mean, tie dye sweatsuits are not in my rotation and were not even on my radar until now! (If you're looking for a set, this Hill House Home one is the only one I would buy).


Journaling in my Contentment Journal. I impulse bought this journal while at Barnes and Noble before this all happened. I didn't regret this purchase then and I'm grateful for it now. I also have a personal journal/diary that has been in heavy rotation as well.


Searching for outfit inspiration. Now that I'm in my 30s my wardrobe could probably use a full overhaul. While I'm not buying clothes right now, I'm going to take advantage of this downtime and revaluate my style and how it can evolve into a more age appropriate look but still reflect me.


Struggling a bit this week. Was anyone else tested by Monday's storms and disheartened by the notification that New York would be closed through May 15th? This was the first week where it fully hit me that I really miss my apartment, my family + friends, and being able to out in the world. I'm constantly reminding myself that the sacrifices we are making now are saving lives, which is the most important thing at this time.

Looking for the light at the end of the tunnel,

ARS xx
S U B S C R I B E


16 April 2020

Small Business Highlight: Hayloft Auctions

I've shared a happy Hayloft Auctions story of mine recently, but I wanted to dedicate a post to one of my favorite Bronx located design resources - especially because Hayloft has an auction live right now! I'm a bargain shopper through and through. Oftentimes this means I'm waiting for things to go on sale (on sale...on sale...on sale), buying used, or even making trades/bartering to get what I want. That being said, Hayloft is one of my favorite places for bargain shopping when I need furniture, artwork, and the like. While I predominately buy artwork, my new desk is from Hayloft and I recently bought a tres chic side chair for a future apartment. If you have never bought at auction before, Hayloft is a great place to start out! The prices are right and there is something for everyone, no matter your style. I personally have been successful with both furniture and art, but there are so many silver pieces and decorative art options to search through, as well as the occasional jewelry or fashion piece. If you have a little bit of imagination and the willingness to make a few updates (think: paint and reupholstery) you are sure to snag something chic and unique for your apartment. Below is a roundup of lots I love, that I believe would work really well together.


Lot 109: 9 Exhibition Posters (current bid $45)








Happy hunting,

ARS xx

S U B S C R I B E

15 April 2020

Mario Buatta at Stair Galleries


As a major Mario Buatta fan, I was beyond excited to attend the Sotheby's exhibition of his collection. You may have even seen a few of my favorite highlights from that exhibition on the towerhouse instagram. I was even more excited to read that Stair Galleries in Hudson would be auctioning off the rest of his vast collection. Having a passion for interior design and being in the auction world these sales have been very exciting to follow and have me wishing I could bid.

Hope you're finding some inspiration this week,

ARS xx

S U B S C R I B E

14 April 2020

Pretty Pins for Summer Dreaming

As I've sat here in quarantine, slowly driving myself (and probably my family) insane, I keep wishing it was summer - my favorite season. While it's wonderful to be able to enjoy the nice days of spring, there is a reason for "April showers bring May flowers" and the grey and rainy days are certainly getting to me. Yesterday we even lost internet and cable due to wind! Below is a roundup to inspire us during these grey days.

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Sunnier days are coming, I promise,

ARS xx