Book Pairings

Ever since I can remember I’ve always loved reading. I remember driving to school with my head buried in a book because I just couldn’t put it down. I also remember sitting against the wall during recess before I would go and play with my friends because I just had to know what happened next in the book. Sure, it sounds like I was totally setting myself up to be the biggest weirdo in the class, I swear I wasn’t a total nerd, but I took and still take reading very seriously.

So seriously, that during the beginning of quarantine I read every single day. It was something I could do to escape the craziness and the unknowns of everything that was going on. It was a nice way to “live” in a different little world and just pretend that a pandemic wasn’t actually going on around me. Call me crazy, but it’s how I got through the beginning stage and how I’ll most likely get through this next wave, especially if we have to shut down again…

I’m going to do a little series where I’ll recommend three books that you buy (or checkout at the library) at the store at once. A little pairing recommendation because different books call for different moods and the worst thing in the world is to bounce from a totally happy book to a depressing book. These will keep your mood pretty even, but they’re not all so similar that you feel like you’re reading the same thing twice. Make sense? I hope so. If not, bear with me.

The first pairing includes Acid for the Children, The Vanishing Half, and Daisy Jones and the Six. I’ve already done an intensive review on Daisy Jones and the Six so you can read that here.

I’ve decided to pair these books together because they’re all about a person who is going through something while trying to maintain a positive image or lifestyle. Each one follows a character through almost all of their lives and describes the struggles and conquests that each character must endure to become the person that they are now. They all end with you feeling like you’ve gained a new friend, and each book has stayed with me for different reasons. I couldn’t put any of them down either, which is always a telltale sign of a good read.

I wouldn’t recommend these in any order, and I don’t even think I could pick a number one out of these three. They’re all fantastic for different reasons.

If you’ve read or read any of these books, please let me know your thoughts in the comments!

Thanks for reading,
xo
chloe

Let's Talk About A Steal

I was scrolling through CB2’s website and I came across the most gorgeous vases. When I realized how amazing the prices were I just kind of sat there. I mean…. SIXTEEN DOLLARS. Must be a typo. But it’s not, and that’s the best part of all of this. I’m hesitant to share these finds with you because they’re secret worthy. Consider yourself lucky. Kidding, but not really. I will most definitely be purchasing one of these (if not all of them) in the not so distant future.

CB2 Celia White Vase

CB2 3-Piece Hat Trick Vase Set

CB2 Chiuri Clear Glass Vase

Happy shopping!
xo
Chloe

DIY Pressed Flower Frame

For full transparency, I’m not a crafty person. In fact, I actually hate doing crafts. I always get frustrated when I can’t make something look as good as the picture or tutorial. I don’t like glitter getting everywhere. I don’t like it when it gets too messy. Maybe that makes me a mess of a person, but if I’m going to do a DIY it needs to be a simple, easy, and quick one. Plus, I want the end result to look like it’s something I could buy in a store, otherwise, in my very sweet humble opinion, why bother. You feel?

So anyway, when my grandmother passed away I saved a flower from her funeral services and pressed it hoping that I would figure out a good way to save it. Well, I came across this gorgeous gold bamboo-inspired frame and decided that it would be perfect for the pink flower I saved. This DIY isn’t even worthy of a whole “how to'“ step by step because it’s so simple. Essentially, I pressed the flower between the pages of a thick book in some wax paper. Then, a few weeks later, I carefully removed the flower and placed it face down on the glass and then put white construction paper on the back. I didn’t glue it down because I didn’t want to permanently damage the flower in case I ever want to change the frame. I then placed the glass back into the frame and called it a DIY. It’s seriously that simple. The only hard part is testing your patience while waiting for the flower to dry out.

I love that this is a way to have my grandmother with me, as I’ve placed this frame on my dresser in my room. It’s simple, pretty, and I love that really only I know where the flower is from, unless someone asks, of course. I will definitely forever treasure this pressed flower and I love that I can always change the frame as the flower comes with me throughout the rest of my life and as my style will constantly ebb and flow.

I’ve linked a few frame options below. All of them are budget-friendly too! Also, this would make an incredible gift, especially with the holiday season right around the corner. Press your friends or family member's favorite flowers or save your favorite flowers from any centerpieces you have this year.

If you do this “DIY” please tag me in a post, I’d love to see!

Thanks for reading!
xo
Chloe

The Very Specific Gift Guide

It’s officially gift guide season, which is both exciting and overwhelming. I’m seriously obsessed with giving gifts, in fact, I’m borderline an obnoxious gift giver. I plan my birthday gifts for weeks. I also buy the gift a few weeks in advance, and then almost (or do) spoil the surprise pretty much every time. It’s bad. It’s something I’m working on. But it’s only because I love bringing people joy and making them feel special. I feel like giving a gift, even (and especially) if it’s for no reason at all, just makes people happy. That pure joy of receiving the perfect gift is something I strive to make all my friends and family feel.

My friends and family are also all extremely difficult to purchase gifts for. Most of them, if not all of them, have everything they want, so finding something that they don’t have and want is especially hard. I’ve decided to create an extremely specific gift guide based on my friends and family that will hopefully inspire you to give gifts that are creative but also not so crazy that your friends and family will love as well. If you’re a friend or a family member and you’re reading this don’t try to guess which gift you might be receiving. Ok? Thanks!

FOR THE PLANT LOVER WHOSE HOUSE IS TURNING INTO A JUNGLE
This orb watering can doubles as a piece of art. I mean, come on, it’s gorgeous, and I love that it’s something that usually is so mundane. It would definitely be an upgrade for whoever you gift it to! Plus, it’s something useful and not just another plant or bouquet that this person usually recieves.

FOR THE PERSON WHO LOVES TO DRINK BUT ALREADY HAS AN OVERFLOWING BAR CART
These ice molds are so… cool. I feel like it’s something that honestly anyone would want, regardless if they even drink alcohol or not. Apparently, they chill your drink more evenly and don’t melt as quickly, but even if they don’t do either of those things, they’re still an upgrade from boring old square ice cubes.

FOR THE MINIMALIST WHO NEEDS A CAFFEINE IV
This French Press is elegant and timeless and extremely useful for any caffeine lovers in your life. There’s something extra special about using something so elegant daily, and this French Press is both elegant and something you’d use daily. I also feel like it’s fun to buy something like this as a gift because it’s one of those things that you’d probably buy the most simple version of if you’re buying it for yourself.

FOR THE PERSON WHO ALWAYS HAS EVERYTHING IN THEIR BAG
I’m sure you have that person in your life who just always has everything you need when you need it. Blister on your heel and need a Band-Aid? They happen to have on. Sudden headache coming on at the worst possible time? Don’t worry, they’ve got extra Advil. This Aesop body balm seems like the perfect fit for this kind of person. It’ easy to take on the go, it’s shareable, and it’s gorgeous — this kind of person’s dream gift. Plus, if you’re not familiar with Aesop, their products are to die for. I would have one of everything if my bank account allowed for it. Plus, it’s a vegan-friendly formula for all your health-conscious and sustainable friends.

FOR THE GIRL WHO’S ALWAYS SAYING “I JUST NEED TO TREAT MYSELF TO A ME NIGHT”
This one is for your self-care queens. The girls who love to take the night for themselves, burn a candle, bathe in bubbles. You know the type. Spoil this gal with a nice mask duo from one of my favorite beauty brands. I love that Glossier is cruelty-free, dermatologist-tested, and their products genuinely work on all skin types. This mask duo is the perfect way to pamper your pal!

FOR THE PERSON WHO IS MORE OBSESSED WITH THEIR DOG THAN YOU
We all have that person in our life that is obsessed with their dog. Like more obsessed with their dog than they are with you. It hurts sometimes, but it’s fine, it’s really fine. Gift them what they’ll definitely love. These dog treats look so good be sure to tell them that they’re only for their pet and not for them! Find those dog cookies here.

FOR THE PERSON WHO ALWAYS SAYS THANK YOU
Supply the appreciative friend with something they’ll appreciate. Thank you cards are the best because they’re something that is always needed but people rarely buy for themselves. Also, this year especially, they might enjoy something that helps them out with their snail mail because it’s the year everyone wants a little extra joy in their mailbox.

FOR THE GIRL WHO ALWAYS TALKS ABOUT JENNIFER FISHER JEWELRY
Jennifer Fisher jewelry is stunning so I don’t blame this friend for constantly talking about it, but it’s also out of my budget and maybe out of yours too. So buy them something similar that they’ll love equally as much. This dainty gold gothic initial necklace is right on trend, the perfect price, and seriously so darn cute. Might need this one for myself.

FOR THE FRIEND WHO’S ALWAYS MAKING YOU LAUGH. SPECIFICALLY WITH VULGAR HUMOR
Ashley Longshore is my freaking idol. She’s a queen. A legend. A visionary. Truly. I highly recommend her coffee table book for ANYONE but definitely for your friends that have a great sense of humor. Her art is smart and witty and downright fun so anyone who has this coffee table book in their life will and is a friend of mine. Maybe my best friend. Check out her art here if you’re curious, which you should be.

FOR THE FRIEND THAT ACTUALLY ENJOYS QUARANTINE
We all know that person that kind of actually maybe enjoyed not leaving their house during the beginning of Covid. Thye might’ve said things like, “it’s not actually thaaaat bad!” or “Wait, you mean to tell me you’re bored ?” or maybe even, “I dread going back to normal life like this is so relaxing and I love being home all the time.” If you know that person, this blanket will make their wildest dreams come true.

I hope this helps even just a little bit! If you’re searching for something specific for your own friends and family, please let me know and I’ll do my best to help or at least point you in the right direction.

Thanks for reading!
xo
chloe

Thanksgiving Recipe Roundup

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and it’s making me think about how fast these past few months have flown by. I mean, March seems like it was ten years ago, but July?? I swear it was just July fourth, like, yesterday. Since Thanksgiving is sneaking up on us faster than you can say “green bean casserole” I’ve decided to help you out in compiling a list of recipes that are bound to be a hit. I’m sure you have your ride or die recipes that your family makes every year, for us, it’s the stuffing and sweet potato casserole, but maybe this year you want to try something new out for those Friendsgiving festivities or smaller scale Thanksgiving dinners you’re having this year — I, for one, am going to miss my great aunt’s cranberry sauce. So good.

photo via

You can thank me later, or just say you’re thankful for this blog when you’re going around the table saying what you’re thankful for. Word of mouth advertising is what I’m going for here. Kidding…. kind of.

I’ve categorized the links based on the type of dish it is, but if you need me to point you in the direction of something specific, don’t hesitate to leave a comment! I’m no chef or recipe master so they’re all links to outside sources. Sharing the love! Some recipes might be classic Thanksgiving dishes and some might be a little different spin on Thanksgiving foods. Thanksgiving is all about appeasing the masses and staying away from politics, right? Right! Also, please note, I tried to list everything that seemed do-able for me. And I’m not a chef. I burn all pans and most foods, but these items all looked like something even I could manage. That being said, I’ve only shared sides and desserts. Turkey is something I just know I would never be able to manage alone.

photo via

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SIDES

• Wild Mushroom Risotto

• Kale Salad with Apples and Pumpkin Seeds

• Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Roasted Brussel Sprouts and Squash

• Cranberry + Brie Bites

• Classic Deviled Eggs

• Mashed Potatoes

• Mac & Cheese

• Another Mac & Cheese (easy)

• Green Bean Casserole

• Brown Butter Stuffing

• Sweet Potato Bake

• Corn Bread Biscuits

• Sweet Potato Casserole (could be dessert)

• Cranberry Sauce

• Roasted Baby Carrots

• Vegan Biscuits

• Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes

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DESSERTS

• Classic Fudgy Brownies

• Pecan Pie Brownies

• Cinamon Swirl Bread (definitely on the more difficult side in my opinion)

• Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

• Pumpkin Bread

• Pumpkin Pie

• Cranberry Orange Buns

• Chess Pie

• No-Bake Brownie Bites

• Vegan Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

• Cookie Dough Bites (vegan optional)

• Apple Cider Bundt Cake

• Cinamon Roll Bread

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DRINKS

• Apple Cider Sangria

• Cucumber Cooler

• 5-ingredient Sangria

• Thanksgiving Margarita

• Caramel Apple Cider Mimosa

• Pumpkin Pie Martini

• Blood Orange Champagne Punch

Whew! That should at least cover a few of your bases. I’m not sure what I’ll be cooking this year, but I’m sure I’ll use this post as a toolkit if I need a few recipes handy. If you’re more in charge of the table scape and place settings than the actual cooking (aka me) I’ve linked a few cute items that I’m inspired by below.

That’s all for now! Stay tuned for Thanksgiving outfit ideas coming soon!
Thanks for reading!
xo
Chloe

Dirty Martini

I’m aout to turn 25 in December. It’ll be my “golden” birthday which means I turn 25 on the 25th.

This means that I’ve been able to drink (legally) for almost four years. During these four years I’ve experimented with different drinks and liquors and flavors and styles. I thought I’d have my signature drink immediately, but it took until this point for me to figure it out. I was refining my pallet. Just kidding, I’m not that pretentious.

I vividly remember on my 21st birthday going out to dinner with my family. I was so excited to order a drink, get carded, and have the waitress be like, “omg! 21 TODAY! how exciting.” But, I ended up not even getting carded at all. The ultimate let down in a 21-year-old’s mind.

This is a photo from my 21st birthday dinner. Please note my “girly” drink, my dad’s martini, and my younger brother’s pepper shaker to feel oh so included.

Anyways, that night, my dad ordered a dirty martini with blue cheese olives and I ordered a drink that sounded girly and fun. I remember trying my dad’s drink and being like, “ew, you ENJOY that?” And he obviously said yes.

Well, y’all, four years later, and that drink that was repulsive is now my drink of choice. Extra dirty martini with blue cheese olives and Titos' vodka is my go-to. It’s a classic. It’s strong, it’s good, it’s easy. Love it.

I feel like I took forever to figure out what my signature drink was because I didn’t want something super fruity or sweet. I don’t like dark alcohol. I wanted something that wasn’t too obscure or hard to find at every bar or restaurant. The dirty martini was the way to go.

Highly recommend.

Thanks for reading!
xo
chloe