Wind Down

A bittersweet moment: packing away the last of the holiday decorations

The past weekend was, as hoped, a relaxing one. It got off to a great start, with a shopping trip to score some post-holiday deals, including our new camera and several boxes of chocolate confections (at 90% off!). Aside from that, a trip to the salon, and a late morning get-together with former co-workers, we spent the majority of our time inside the condo, watching the snowflakes fall and the stars walk the red carpet.  

Excited to experiment with the newest addition to our camera family: the Nikon D5100

I couldn't resist the packaging, or the treats within

Unexpected mid-afternoon flurries beyond the balcony

Essentials to prolong a blowout: Anthropologie's hair ties and a silk pillowcase

Frugal Gourmet

Okay, I admit it: I LOVE a good deal. In fact, those closest to me may say that this is one of my major defining characteristics. I especially enjoy a discount when it gives me the chance to experience a luxury for which I would never pay full price, which is why I am one of those people who frequent the small sale rack at the back of Williams-Sonoma. They generally mark down their gourmet foodstuffs when there is still a reasonable amount of time to spare before expiration, as was recently the case with this and this. When all you need to add is  butter and an egg, it may actually be the cheapest way to make homemade cookies. Add some fun packaging, and their luxury factor remains intact, even if you did buy the mix for a ridiculously low price.