Thick Skin and an Elastic Heart

I’ve been loving graphic tees lately which is a bit of a change for me. For a long time, graphic tees made me think back to middle school when everyone wanted to wear the ‘brunettes have more fun’ tees from Hollister/Abercrombie…. I’m glad to be far away from the days of popped collars and overly strong wafting cologne.

I’ve been eyeing this tote for awhile, but finally pulled the trigger because the size was really what I was looking for; I mentioned in a recent post that I’d been considering the Tory Burch York tote, after seeing what the handles on some of the used totes looked like, I wanted to look at some different alternatives that may wear better.  I was really surprised to find that Kate Spade doesn’t currently make a large tote in tan. While the company is known for their ‘live colorfully,’ motto, it seems like they may be missing out by not selling any classic tan pieces.

This tote is available in a few different shades and can be monogramed as well. I’ll be sure to write a review after I’ve had a few more weeks to carry it, but so far I like the size of the small zipper pocket for keeping my work, house and car keys in easy reach, and the large open size makes it easy for me to throw everything I need in: a small cosmetic bag with lotion, lip balm, medicine, a notebook, my planner, snacks {most important item in my bag at any given time, obviously}, sunglasses and all the other random things I like to tote around.

Some of my favorite reads from last week:

• These milkshake recipes from Aww, Sam. I need that donut shake in my life like….yesterday.
• Krista’s gorgeous post in front of this wall art makes me want to face my fear of shooting in front of strangers and get out there ASAP.
• Kayla’s been eyeing the same Rebecca Minkoff tassel clutch and crossbody that I have and posted her DIY version. In love!
• I always giggle while reading Courtney‘s posts and she looks absolutely beautiful in this lilac coat and polka dot dress.

Currently crushing on:

• These adorable one pieces from Aerie! I love that they offer more coverage than a bikini and come in fun prints! {Extra bonus: free shipping and returns!} 1 2 3
• This pineapple pool float is a pool essential {I spent most of last summer lounging on my donut, pretzel and popsicle floats} as well as these designer dupe shades that are under $15.
• Love love love the scalloped, high neckline on this bodysuit.
• I think this white dress from Ashley Graham’s collection for Dressbarn would be absolutely stunning for a bride to be.
• The Local Pride by Todd Snyder collection for Target. Sassy graphic tees to support your hometown {or state} in? Sign me up. Sadly, they just have California, San Diego, San Francisco, Chicago and Minnesota ones, but if you’re from one of these there’s definitely one for you. Holding out hope that DC maybe gets included in the next go round.

So grateful for spring weather finally gracing Louisville. While I love boot weather, being able to free my {pasty} feet and let them breathe and see sunshine makes me super happy.  I’ve been loving this olive jacket the past couple weeks.  It has a soft shell that you can put it in for cooler days, but I’m wearing just the shell here.

Also how cute are these Karen Walker shades? I’m loving the unique shape.