Life Lately

Changes. Life lately hasn't exactly been peachy. There's been so many changes in the last few weeks that have made me switch my focus to getting things back on track. I left my job after working there for six years which was pretty sad for me but since then I accepted a new and much more exciting job opportunity to run my own marketing department for a local company. There are sunnier days ahead and I start this new adventure one week from today.

Hurdles. We closed on our new home last week but then some complications arose with selling our current home since the buyers decided to delay another month. After a million phone calls, financial transactions, and tireless signing of documents we were able to successfully close and move in to our new home over the weekend. We spent the entire weekend moving, unpacking, and organizing things. I do believe exciting days are ahead in our new abode while we wait patiently to officially sell our current home.

Escape. In the midst of the chaos, K and I had a trip already booked and planned to visit Denver so we spent Memorial Day long weekend exploring the city and catching a ball game at Coors Field. We were blessed with good weather for the entire trip which allowed us to explore the city on foot and take in all that downtown Denver has to offer.

Sharing. After returning and settling back at home, Kerri and I met up for a happy hour date which was so fun catching up over some delish sushi and wine.

Reality. Other than some leisurely happy hours and lunch dates with friends and previous coworkers, there has been lots of Home Depot trips which probably won't be ending anytime soon.

Adulting. Home Goods also took my wallet for a run over the weekend. That store really has the cutest things for a great price. I was so tempted to buy gifts for everyone. I foresee a few more trips there as I finish up designing and decorating our home.

Celebrate. After moving all day on Friday, we met up with friends at Kobe Steakhouse in the evening to celebrate the birthday of Kate's hubby over some hibachi and sake. It's always a good time with this great group of friends.

Crisis. Within 48 hours of living in our new home (in a brand new gated community), our neighbors house got broken into on Saturday night and then the neighborhood flooded on Sunday because of torrential rains and thunderstorms. Nothing seriously affecting us or our new home but it has us in a serious scurry to get a security system to secure our home.

Release. The bestie and I have been enjoying Yoga in the Park on Sundays when we're not traveling or busy moving.

Bonding. K and I ended the weekend on Sunday with a date evening after a busy weekend consumed with moving and unpacking. We had to go to Home Goods for some final things, then Buffalo Wild Wings for a beer because that's an even trade-off in his books and ending with some barbecue for dinner at Texas Roadhouse.

Recap. Our last Wanderlust Wednesday is happening this week so please help us end with a bang by sharing your favorite travel recaps. I'll be sharing all the details about our trip to Denver.

Joining the lovely Biana for her weekending linkup.

Weekending: Denver Style

I hope everyone enjoyed the long weekend and feels rested and ready to tackle this week. We close on our new house today and move in this weekend so I have some busy but exciting days ahead.

We returned home last night after spending the past few days exploring the Mile-High City which was everything and more than I expected. I plan to do a full travel recap next week for our last Wanderlust Wednesday linkup. In the meantime, I'm linking up with the beautiful Biana to share a quick weekend recap.



We arrived late on Friday night so we just had enough time to check into our hotel and grab a quick bite before heading to bed. The Denver Day of Rock music festival happened to be on Saturday so there was lots of extra entertainment happening with live music, food trucks, and tons of local vendors selling art and produce.

 

The bulldog lover in me couldn't resist purchasing this colorful piece of art and I got a few different prints to give as gifts.

We spent all of Saturday walking around and exploring downtown Denver. It really is a beautiful city and I was amazed by all the pretty street art. Luckily our hotel was in the heart of downtown so we walked everywhere to burn off those vacation calories.

While exploring we stumbled upon our first brewery The Great Divide and went in to sample some local craft beers. K loves craft beer but most of them are too hoppy for me but I still enjoyed the friendly atmosphere and some of the lighter beers they offered.

Other than Brunch at Elway's Steakhouse that morning, I didn't do much planning ahead in terms of restaurants. Several people recommended Elway's to me for a good steak dinner but we didn't manage to find time on this trip. Later in the day we stopped at Earl's Kitchen & Bar to refuel with an early dinner. Earl's is a national chain but the downtown Denver location has a trendy atmosphere with great lunch/dinner options.

We did a lot of browsing through souvenir shops and local stores but I didn't purchase much other than some local Colorado honey and these dream catcher earrings which I'm in love with. I also bought a pair for the bestie but in bronze.

On Sunday we had the most amazing brunch at Ophelia's Electric Soapbox. Definitely a downtown gem for brunch which I found while browsing reviews on Yelp. They have live music, bottomless mimosas, and an eclectic American food menu for brunch, lunch, and dinner.

After brunch we headed over to the Coors Field for a 2pm Rockies vs Giants game and our seats were only 5 rows away from the field so we had the perfect view. The Rockies ended up losing but it was an amazing experience.

After the game more exploring through downtown happened and we stopped at a couple local hot spots and breweries. I'll share more details next week as this "quick recap" is no longer a quick read. LOL

 On Sunday morning, it was unfortunately time to check out of the hotel and grab a quick lunch at Henry's Tavern before heading to the airport. We had walked past Henry's several times on Saturday and Sunday but it was always packed full of people so evidently it's one of the more popular sports bars/restaurants in the area. Yesterday was much quieter so we were able to get in right away and enjoy some delicious dishes for lunch.

Denver treated us very well and I'd love to return in the future to check out Red Rocks Amphitheater and a few other places we didn't manage to fit into this short trip.

Back to reality today but luckily we have a somewhat short week ahead!!

Friday Before the Long Weekend

Happy Friday!

I've been looking forward to this weekend for months now since we have a trip to Denver planned and we fly out tonight. Life has been extremely crazy recently so I only just started planning out some things to do. We did buy tickets for a Rockies game a while ago but other than that I really haven't had much time to research restaurants, main attractions, etc. Either way I know it's going to be a fun weekend!

Life has been busy but I managed to grab a celebratory lunch with the bestie at a local Japanese restaurant and had the most delicious bento box I've ever tried. It even came with a cute little yogurt dessert.

One of my favorite fashion finds this week are these adorable Starfish Rings from Alex & Ani. I have a "thing" for starfish and used the symbol in my wedding as a theme since it was a beach/tropical style wedding. According to various sources the starfish symbolizes perception, sensitivity, and feelings among other things.

I've loved Body Shop products since I was a teenager but rarely make time to go to the mall. I've raved about their amazing eye makeup remover several times before on the blog but a few weeks ago I picked up the new-to-me Seaweed Deep Cleansing Face Wash and I love how well it deep cleans my face after a long day yet it's gentle without a harsh smell. They actually have free shipping right now so it would usually be my time to stock up. 

 

In the healthy food department, these Apple Pecan Chicken Salad made with Greek yogurt looks amazing. I can't wait to try it when I return home from vacay.

 Happy Memorial weekend!

If you have any fun suggestions for things to do in Denver, I'd love to hear all about it. 

Joining Amanda for her Friday Favorites linkup.

Satin Sleepwear

I was browsing through Victoria's Secret in the mall over the weekend and remembering how much I love soft and silky sleepwear yet I only own one satin robe. I've always wanted silk or satin sheets for the pure comfort factor but have never managed to find the right set. When it comes to pajamas and sleepwear they have so many cute options out there. Here's a few I found:

one / two / three / four / five / six / seven / eight

And some cute sleep masks could never hurt to make sure you get a good night of sleep.

What's your sleepwear essentials or favorites?

Weekend Whereabouts

I hope you all had a fabulous weekend. Mine was very productive doing "house things" with a little bit of relaxing and some fun with friends.

On Friday, K and I had our final walk-through/inspection of the new home which went well despite getting soaked by torrential thunderstorms. After we got that completed it was time for some happy hour and dinner at Graffiti Junktion.

Saturday was spent packing up boxes and organizing things at home before heading out for a quick dinner at Carrabba's with the bestie and her mom. After dinner we went to a friend's 80's themed birthday, although some people didn't dress up (ahem Kate and myself).

 

On Sunday I took the bestie and her mom out and about to do some shopping and errands. We literally spent 6 hours shopping between the mall, Target, Michael's and a few more stops. I'm happy to report I didn't buy one thing despite being tempted by all the cute Betsy Johnson things at Michael's.

We stopped at a Peruvian restaurant and shared some amazing ceviche and seafood for lunch.

It was a nice weekend and I'm already counting down to the long weekend ahead.

Joining the lovely Biana for her Weekending linkup.

Friday Faves

Well this week didn't start off quite like I was expecting so it threw me off the grid for a few days. But I'm happy to be back with some spirit to share some things that make me smile and brighten up those gloomy days.

Mascara, Mimosas & Curls

I bought this  Mascara & Mimosas racerback tank recently online from Look Human - they have so many funny/cute/sarcastic prints. I still haven't had a chance to wear it out for brunch as yet but tops like this and salon styled hair will always make me smile.

LookHuman.com has so many cute tank designs perfect for the gym or just wearing out and about. I found a promo code for $5 off your purchase. This isn't a sponsored post. (Promo code: YESPLZ)

Sushi & Girl Time

On Wednesday evening I met up with a girlfriend for $4 sushi at happy hour. It was refreshing catching up because usually I don't have a lot of news to share but this time it was a mouthful. And she listened to everything and gave her advice, which I value.

Subtle Crochet

Yesterday I posted some pretty crochet dresses that are perfect for the warmer days ahead. Pinterest is always to the rescue to find inspiration for fashionable outfits with some subtle crochet.

Good Reads
This article outlining 11 habits of successful women offers some reassurance and/or guidance for us to get our ducks in order.

 

Healthy Recipes

I'm always on the hunt for new recipes since I cook dinner at home 4-5 times a week and we like to keep it low carb at night. This Balsamic Glazed Chicken topped with Caprese Salad is on my radar for healthy weeknight dinners.

Enjoy the weekend!

Joining Amanda for her Friday Faves linkup.