We spent Dale’s last vacation week of the summer with a quick trip to Chicago to visit family and explore the city. My favorite parts were visiting The Art Institute of Chicago, making clover crowns and bagel breakfasts. I hope you get a chance for a quick summer getaway, too!
May Around The Web
May is one of my favorite months of the year, and my allergies haven't even been quite as terrible as normal! This month I traveled to Chicago for a work event, tried a Soul Cycle class, attended Hallmark's Creative Leadership Symposium (and a Gemma O'Brien Meet & Greet!), spent Mother's Day in KC (complete with a delicious lunch and the Symphony Designers' Showhouse), watched my youngest sister, Grace, graduate from sixth grade, participated in a piñata making workshop for one of #My5Days, marbled paper with my team at work, and continued working on Mother's Day 2018 cards!
Looking back, this month was filled with some pretty special opportunities and lots of making. One of my favorite parts of these posts is thinking back on what I accomplished during the last month, and of course seeing what inspired me. I have been constantly impressed by Nick Misani's Fauxsaics. They are stunning! If you haven't already seen them be sure to take a look. I noticed on Instagram he might be teaching a class to share his process, which would definitely be something I would need to sign up for. Here are some of my other favorite finds this May:
I love this faux-flower DIY from Sugar & Cloth!
These are the perfect shorts to celebrate warmer weather.
An interesting read, good thoughts for business owners and those working corporate jobs.
I would love to try making these smoothies, they are so pretty!
A great guide to pressing flowers, I also want to get Beci Orpin's new book, Sunshine Spaces.
I don't need these pineapple earrings, but they sure are cute!
Create*Cultivate in New York looked amazing, and these thoughts on Instagram are worth reading.
New balloons from Studio DIY!
I've been dreaming about an outdoor space at our next place, and I loved Emily's patio.
AND Pippa got married this month!
Until next month, happy reading!
Chicago: Days Three & Four
The last two days in Chicago were a whirlwind. The Bridgeport Art Center was a wonderful location for Renegade, and even included a distant view of the city. (Take a look at Monday's post to see my favorite vendors.) After a long day exploring the fair we headed back downtown in order to make our dinner reservation at RPM Italian. It's as good as it sounds, definitely recommended. For dessert we tried More cupcakes, and along the way I discovered P.O.S.H. which couldn't have had a lovelier selection of holiday goods. I would love to visit again. The last morning included a stop at the bean, and then back to KC! This was such an inspiring trip, hopefully I will find myself in the Windy City again soon.
Chicago: Day Two
Day two in Chicago was spent exploring the Wicker Park/Bucktown area. I discovered some wonderful shops AND Jeni's Ice Cream (self-described as splendid, and I would have to agree). If you find yourself in the area, stop in Paper Doll, One Strange Bird, Store B Vintage, Una Mae's, and Greer Chicago. After visiting all these places we headed back downtown and stopped by Sprinkles, Anthropologie, and made our way to Gino's East for dinner. The evening ended with a walk by Macy's to take a look at their beautiful holiday window displays. Be on the lookout for a recap from Renegade tomorrow!
Chicago: Day One
Hello from the windy city! I am spending a few days in Chicago and it is so much fun to be in a different city during the holidays. Today's highlights included a trip to Eataly (a must visit for any other pasta lovers) and strolling through Nordstrom/other shops on Michigan Ave. I especially loved Opening Ceremony's Pop-Up Shop. I can't wait to see what else the rest of the trip will bring!