Crossing County Lines

I had no sooner opened my eyes on Saturday morning before I realized that we had a completely unplanned day ahead of us ready to fill with adventure. I rolled over in bed, grabbed my iPad, took a look at the forecast (dreary but doable), and then quickly flipped through Twitter before stumbling upon this article listing a few local spots for apple and pumpkin picking.

It wasn’t long before we were in the car, coffee in hand, and making our way through cornfields to Stade’s Farm in McHenry County. We took full advantage of the trip by squeezing in a side visit to Glacial Park, where we were able to score a picnic table that afforded us some great vistas and a spot in which to enjoy our still-warm apple cider donuts. I love this time of year.

Jewel Boxes

Summer is still in full swing, but that hasn’t stopped retailers from rolling out next season's goods. I haven’t even had a chance to wear out my neon yellow clutch, and I’m already coveting next season’s rich jewel-toned bags. 

1. Juicy Couture Jocelyn Satchel, $298

2. Zara Crimson Plaited Shopper, $149

3. Balenciaga Town Mangue, $1445

4. Reed Krakoff Boxer Bag, $1190

5. Tory Burch Robinson Middy Satchel, $495

6. J. Crew Edie Purse, $198

Collar Craving

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I think I may be falling victim to the fashion-forward collar craze. It kind of makes you wonder how we’ve been settling for boring old necklaces this long, doesn't it?

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Tulip Time

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As predicted, once I unleashed the living room redecorating beast, it couldn’t be stopped at the bookcases and desk. It seems like Eero Saarinen’s tulip tables are sprouting up all over the place these days. In my eternal quest to create functional spaces in our small condo and introduce classic modern pieces into our repertoire, I’ve decided that it's just what we need to set the stage for a quaint breakfast nook. I mean, really, what would a cup of coffee and a Sunday morning newspaper be without one?

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Light Up My Life

Now that I have the beginnings of a new corner office, I’ve noticed that the few bare halogen ceiling bulbs and single sliding window door in our living room just aren’t doing the trick. Whereas I used to think of lighting merely in terms of its utilitarian purpose, a recent trip to Sweden and Finland has me considering the many possibilities.

1.Stella Floor Lamp, $119

2. Lavoisier Pendant Lamp, $168

3. Bowie Lamp, $295

4. Industrial Task Table Lamp, $69

5. Caravaggio Floor Lamp, Unlisted

6. Milk Table Lamp, £139

7. Bennett Desk Lamp, $298

8. Glass Jug Table Lamp, $149