When I was in high school, I spent several summers working at the Carlsbad Caverns National Park selling turquoise jewelry to tourists. I thought it was a pretty sweet gig, making a king's ransom of minimum wage, while having the chance to practice speaking French with unsuspecting customers visiting from abroad. Early each morning, I would park my car in a grocery store parking lot and take the 40 minute ride to work aboard the company bus. I would spend much of that time reading books or staring out the window at the vast desert landscape, lost in thought. Looking back now, I see that it was the beginning of my morning quiet time ritual, one that I still practice to this day.

I don’t know about you, but I’m really missing travel - the excitement of waking up somewhere new and experiencing the unique sights, sounds, and flavors of a place. I’m particularly missing my annual trip to France to host The Academy and have been reminiscing about the last six years I’ve spent gathering women from around the world for a week of inspiration and creativity. In an effort to travel vicariously with you, I’m sharing how we created this beautiful table setting to celebrate our final evening together, gathered at the table with a delicious meal, and give you the recipe for our aptly named - French Farewell Salad.

Continuing with our interview series of creative female entrepreneurs, I want to introduce you to my friend, Lisa Romerein. Lisa is an incredibly talented and successful photographer who has captured countless homes and locations all over the world - you may have seen her work already and not even realized it! Her images are regularly published in national magazines and books, such as The House that Pinterest Built and Patina Farm, just to name a few. Seeing her name on a call sheet brings me so much joy, knowing I’ll have another opportunity to work alongside her. She is the ultimate professional and working with her has been a highlight of my career. I think you’re going to enjoy getting to know more about Lisa, including her favorite photography gear, what fuels her creativity, and her idea of the ultimate day off!

Yay, it’s Friday! Or does it feel like a Wednesday to you? I know it can feel like they all blend together now. I’ve been keeping busy with coaching clients and moving the shop over to the main site so we’re not running two websites. Bringing it all in house feels good and like the right time to do it. There will be new inventory from France is coming soon! Today I thought I’d bring back another old school post - Friday Favorites! I’ve missed these simple types of posts and hope you have too. Here are some things I’ve been loving lately, from my favorite flowy dress to what I’m reading.

Today we’re throwing it back with some old school blog vibes! Do you remember when bloggers shared those what’s in my bag posts? I never actually did one, and have no idea if the topic is still of any interest, but I used to like getting a peek into what others carry in their bags, and more importantly, how they organize them! Because to me, that’s priority level two - right below don’t forget my phone. So, in an effort to do something fun and frivolous, (because our ongoing world issues have been feeling very heavy) let’s dig into my bag!

It’s officially summer and the warm weather is in full swing. Because we’re spending more time at home, the thought of having a staycation has me rethinking our outdoor spaces, and perhaps you too. So I thought it would be nice to share some ideas that will help make your outdoor space feel more inviting, luxurious and relaxing, with a few styling tips along the way!