Throwback Tuesday - Trip Prep

Happy Tuesday!

I hope you had a fantastic weekend filled with lots of love, sappy movies, and far too much chocolate!  I would have to say that this Valentine's was easily one of my favorites thus far.  The past few years we have spent this weekend skiing with our friends, which is always fun, but this year it was just our little family - Jonny, Mr. Brown and me.... nothing fancy, or over the top (actually quite the opposite).  We spent the day going for a jog to brunch, walking it off afterwards, and then holding hands while we each got vaccinated for our upcoming trip (we are serious romantics over here 😂) - it was the perfect day and I would not have had it any other way!

As I sat here planning out the next few weeks for the blog while we are away, and making sure we have plenty of space on our camera and phones, I realized that I forgot to post this fun look from my trip to New York last month!  Before my last trip, I popped by an adorable new store in the Highlands - Ruby Jane - they have several sister stores in the mountains (Breckenridge, Avon, Edwards, and Aspen) that I have been to many times before.  Clearly I was thrilled when I learned of their opening closer to our home :). 

They had so many cute pieces including this amazing jacket (also love this very similar one $98 and this one $46) that I snapped right up to bring with me and knew would help me fit right in like a chic east coaster.   I also really loved all of their gorgeous accessories!  I love love a statement piece (like this one or this one) with everything, it is a great piece to add some flare to even a plain tee.  And I really just can't get enough of this hat.  I wasn't sure how I would feel about a floppy hat on me, but this one is so fun to wear and is also incredibly warm!

Have a wonderful week, friends!!

xo

There's Always Time for Ice Cream

Happy Friday Friends!!

I hope you had a wonderful week and are looking forward to a nice long weekend with your Valentine or have fun plans with your besties!  As I mentioned, Jonny and I are relaxing at home this this weekend (we couldn't be more thrilled about it) and giving Charlie Brown extra love since we will be out of town for a few weeks.

Most of our friends will tell you, Jonny and I are not always the most prompt people.  We just aren't.  His friends used to say he was on JST - Jonny Standard Time... and I am sure my friends have a name for me too.  For us, being a little tardy is hereditary, something that was passed down from both our grandparents.  Which doesn't make it ok, but extreme timeliness was never practiced in either of our families... so has never been much of an issue in our relationship or bothered us.

Last week however, I noticed myself falling further and further behind due to over-scheduling and unable to really enjoy what I was doing because I was already thinking about or moving on to the next part of my day (15 to 20 minutes late of course).  One evening I missed a friends event and was already worried about how behind I knew I was going to be the next day.  That moment I realized I have to start saying no, and being realistic with my time in order to enjoy the moment.  Whether that means I skip a workout so Charlie gets a longer walk or I say no to something business related so Jonny and I can go on a date, or even taking time for myself for a little ice cream break.  These things are important people 🍦😉!

I love this little gelato spot we found in Boulder, Fior di Latte.  I was instantly transported back to our trip to Italy a couple of years ago.  I also love this soft color combo from local Boulder boutique Willow.  This long sweater is so comfortable and is an easy neutral to throw on over anything - also love this one and this one (similar/and adorable/on sale!).  I can't get enough of these Clare V clutches.... they have a print for every outfit and mood, this one is available at Willow or similar online here.

Have a wonderful weekend!! Would love to hear what fun things you are up to this weekend!  Also, if you have any tips on slowing down and scheduling, I am all ears :).

xo

Wanderlust - Kate Spade 75% off Sale Round - Up!

Guys,

I have a serious case of wanderlust after rounding up Kate Spade's latest 75% off sale!! OMG all of the bright colors and fun travel pieces have me giddy with excitement for our upcoming trip.  A few times a year she puts on this amazing sale, but it only lasts for a few days and things sell out quickly... the passport holder I had my eye on sold out in minutes!  

Up Up and Away Studs ($19) // Pearl Studs ($19) // Stripe Shirtdress ($129) // Hot Air Baloon Coin Purse ($39) // Get Carried Away Clutch ($29) // Daycation Passport holder ($25) // Carried Away Tote ($159) // Bon Voyage Carry On ($329)

Blushing Valentines Date Out

You Guys!!!

The Broncos are Super Bowl Champions - woot woot!  There is such a great feeling in our big/little city right now!  Driving home last night every horn was honking and happiness was exuding from every home and car.  I can only imagine how much fun my dad and Jonny had at the game, but I am ready for them to hurry home now.  Jonny and I have so much to do before our big trip next week!

Jonny and I don't have big plans this Valentines Day, we are heading to SE Asia next week so that is really what we are focussing on (and incredibly excited about it!), but last week we were sure to spend a night out at one of our favorite restaurants, Mercantile Dining and Provision, relaxing and enjoying each others company, while also doing a little trip planning.  

As I shared with you here, Jonny and I love date nights at home.  However, when we do go out, we have a few go-to spots.  I often get emails about my favorite restaurants in Denver and I always have the same answers - thats because we are such creatures of habit.  When we have time to go out to eat we want to be sure it is going to be a place we love.  Our favorite spots are Mercantile (below), Linger (our anniversary spot), Postino (great happy hour), Root Down (more about it here), Highland Tap and Burger (yummiest burgers).

Denver is a pretty casual city, but I still like to make sure I look and feel extra special on date nights.   This Tory Burch look is the perfect outfit for a casual Valentines date night and is great transitioning into spring.  The blush tones are so feminine and I love the sweater and top separately... the blouse reminds me of a little ballerina, perfectly dainty.  Also, these shoes could not be more comfy - the structured/chunky heel 🙌🏼- ahhhhhmazing! 

This Thursday, February 11th, join me for a fun night of champagne and shopping at Tory Burch in Cherry Creek,  I will be there from 6-8pm (pointing out my favorite things to Jonny!) bring your guy or girlfriends!  Look forward to seeing you there!

Shop the whole look below or at the store with me Thursday!

xo

PS - What do you have planned for Valentines Day?  Would love to hear your favorite date spots wherever you are!!

WE Got all the soul

Happy Friday Friends,

And more importantly, Happy Super Bowl weekend!  Last weekend, almost the whole fam dam + and I got our ride on at the Soul Cycle pop up in Denver.  Jonny, Zoe, mom, and I rode and dad stopped by just to see what all of the excitement was about.  

We have an interesting obsession with Soul Cycle in the Perlmutter/Miller household.  Zoe worked the front desk at Soul Cycle in New York for a while and got us all hooked too.  I took several classes during my recent visit and came back hoping that we would get one in Denver soon.

So clearly we were all thrilled when we learned of the pop up taking place in Denver!  We still don't have a permanent studio here, but am hoping our enthusiasm put us on the radar 

I loved the Soul Cycle and Target partnership.  Zoe and I were able to pick up some really great activewear at an incredibly affordable price.  We perused the pop up shop and grabbed some adorable Target/Soul gear that are all currently available here.  I love my pants $37 that I snagged (and fit and feel just like Lulus) with a much more affordable price tag.  Our sweatshirts and tanks are both so soft (I am wearing an XS and Zoe is wearing a S)!  Actually, Jonny was convinced I wouldn't wear a zip up hoodie, but it has been the first thing that I put on every night this week because it is so, so cozy!  I think the piece I have been raving about most is this quilted 1/2 zip $39.99.  I have loved throwing it on for a workout and running errands after.

Hope you all have a wonderful and safe Super Bowl weekend!!

Shop all outfit details (and a few other adorable pieces) below!

xo

Photography: Corey Anthony

This post is in collaboration with Target. As always, all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible! 

TBT - Game Day Glam

I am not typically a superstition person, but I say, "why fix what aint broken," (I don't really say ain't).  Clearly this post was good luck early in the season, so I am reposting :).  And In honor of throwback Thursday and mostly in honor of the Broncos playing in the Superbowl this weekend (woot woot), I thought I should throw it back to this Game Day Glam look.

For those of you, like my lucky husband and dad (IIIII know!!!), who get to go to the game this weekend, or even those of us who don't, but are still going to celebrate and have an awesome time.... I have picked some of my favorite classic orange and blue pieces for guys and gals that will be perfect to cheer on the Broncos (sorry Panthers friends)!

I love this tie for the guy in your life, it will look festive and classic with jeans and a white button up (bonus, can double as an early Valentines gift)!!  I also love this vintage sweatshirt and this handsome pullover for him.   I think this dress is absolutely adorable and so affordable ($51)... and I love these polka dot and strappy flats that are great to add just a little pop of color!

Check out more fun picks below... just click the pics for details!  Happy TBT! 

X's & O's in Boulder

Growing up, we spent many weekends as a family in Boulder.  My parents, and grandparents were CU Buffs so some of my earliest memories are making the short drive from Golden to beautiful Boulder to see Ralfie run the field at football games.

My friends and I used to make the drive from Denver all of the time to bother Zoe (and crash her parties) right after we graduated from college (I strayed from the CU legacy), but I realized Jonny and I don't get up there nearly enough!  Last week I thought it would be fun to take a little day trip to Boulder to visit my cousin.  It brought back such fun memories of summer lunches on Pear St. and fall football games, that I know Jonny and I will be adding it to our list of quick getaways from now on. 

We walked around and stopped in a few adorable spots including Willow, a seriously gorgeous boutique a few blocks from the middle of town! The clothes were gorgeous and the stylists were so helpful and had such a creative eye.  The structure of this jacket is ahhh-mazing (also love this one).  And I made a bee-line for this orange floral top (maybe because I have Broncos on the brain or I am ready for spring... or both!).  The same beautiful print also comes in a dress and skirt 🙊🤗😍.  I also love these DL jeans - they are so comfortable and just the perfect amount of distressed.

What are your favorite day trips or weekend getaways?  Jonny and I love visiting new places!  Shop my whole look at Willow (mention Denver Darling when you stop in or by phone and get 20% off one item!) or shop below!

xo

Valentines Date In

Happy February Friends,

I hope you had wonderful weekend!!  I loved this weekend.  My little sister was home again to rock out at the Soul Cycle Denver/Target pop up (more on that later this week!), there was sunshine, and snow (so typical Colorado) , and some great time with our sweet grandparents!  It was also really nice to be in our home and sit by the fire most of the day Sunday and play cards (I am lame, I know... I love gin rummy if you ever need an opponent).  

Jonny and I get the chance to do some fun things living in this beautiful state, and do our best to take advantage of them, but sometimes it is nice to enjoy being home.  That is why, whenever Jonny and I are celebrating anything extra special my first choice is to have a date night in.

Jonny is not usually much of a cook (although his apron would lead you to believe otherwise).  But pizza making was so interactive, fun, and easy for both of us!  Not to mention, delicious!  We also loved being able to pick our toppings.... Jonny is a big pepperoni guy and I love all the veggies my little pizza could handle.  

I love these pink glittery flutes that I got from Swoozies and I'm sure will use all month long.  I also love our tray from there (we got for our wedding) with all of the areas in Denver!  P.S. I know I am wearing this blouse again, but it just matched my apron so perfectly, I couldn't resist! 

What you need:

• pizza dough (we used fresh dough from Whole Foods)
• tomato sauce
• toppings you love (mozzarella cheese, mushrooms, peppers, onions, pepperoni)

What we did:

• preheat oven to 500
• cover area you will be rolling dough with good amount of flour
• cut dough in half
• work dough in round(ish) shape
• add sauce first then toppings
• slide onto cookie sheet (I read that you shouldn't use one - ours turned out great!)
• bake for 10 - 13 minutes (until puffy and browned)
• enjoy!

What fun things do you have planned for Valentines Day?  I'll be sharing our favorite date night spot out soon!

Photography: Corey Anthony

Pink and Red - Yes, You Can!

Hi Friends!

I hope you guys are having a great week!

I am getting excited for February... really excited!  It is my favorite month next to December - not just because it is the month of "loooooovvve", but it is also two of my best friends and my birthday month - so really a whole month of celebrations!!  

It is also one of my favorite times to wear bold colors with very feminine accents since everyone seems to have romance on the brain.  Also, with Spring nearing and snow dwindling I am always a little more excited (and more likely) to get dressed up!  Although I love cozy sweaters and boots it has been nice to break out my skirts and go tightsless 🙊mid-winter!  

I used to be a rules girl: no black with navy, no pattern mixing, and definitely no red with pink (ewww it clashed!)!  I am learning (as I grow almost a year older) those rules don't apply anymore - especially this one!  This is definitely my favorite "rule" to break since pink is my favorite color and red is another bold staple.  I love this top ($37) and also often pair it with jeans for a casual date look.  My exact skirt is sold out, but I also love this one, this one and this one (all under $50!).  I have linked the rest of my look below!

Can't wait to share a few of our favorite Valentines dates with you next week!  Have a great rest of your week!

xo

Dog Mom Resolutions

Hi Guys!!

I hope you are all still basking in the glory of Sunday's Broncos win, as we are over here!!  Denver has been walking on sunshine, even in the midst of a few snow flurries :).

Most of you know how I feel about our (almost) 10 year old golden retriever, Charlie Brown.  The love I have for him is close to unhealthy.  I believe he has the IQ of a 9 year old child and I am convinced he can read my mind at most times.  Jk... kind of. 🐶🙊

With Charlie getting into his more senior years, one of my resolutions this year was to be a better dog mom.  I am sure this sounds ridiculous to some people, but for those who's dog is like family... you know what I mean.  Longer walks and more play time is good for both of us.  This past weekend Jonny and I puppy sat my moms golden doodle, Cooper, so he got to reap some benefits of my resolution as well.

I popped by Gordmans to grab a few things to spruce up my walking wear.  I was so surprised to find the large assortment of very affordable activewear (like these or these $19 leggings... whaaaa?!!)  I also love this pullover in black or pink!

Hope your week is off to a great start!

For some more active inspiration, check out these other lovely bloggers! Charmingly Styled // Economy of Style // Treble in the Kitchen // Kate Maree

This post is in collaboration with Gordmans. As always, all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible! 

Photography: Corey Anthony 

A perfect ring to it

About this time three years ago I started noticing engagement rings (a lot!)... (I may or may not have created a secret Pinterest board with all of my favorites) realizing that I was really ready and excited to marry Jonny! And, at about this same time, a long time friend of my family, Steve Rosdal, who has a lifetime of experience, came out of retirement and opened his new jewelry store (great timing!). 

I hinted to Jonny a few times that if he ever had any jewelry needs (I don't know why he would have any.... ahem?) that he should visit my friend Steve!  Little did I know they had been meeting and planning and working on my ring for months!

Steve has recently Partnered with Kaleigh Lannan to start the Diamond Reserve which focuses on custom jewelry, one on one attention, the highest quality diamonds, and always finding the best prices for their customer.  Jonny and I had a blast working with Kaleigh and wonderful EmilyAnne to recreate our engagement as they wanted to be sure to include real friends and clients on their new website, which I think is such a fun idea!  (I would do a proposal enactment any time, any place, anywhere with Jonny! Those feelings just come fluttering back! - wearing these stunning diamonds was pretty fun too!).  We are so flattered to be featured on their new website and are sure you will love working with them too!

While writing this, I subtly reminded Jonny that Valentines day is just around the corner... the earrings I got to to wear for this shoot have been on my mind ever since (more throat clearing :) )!

Just for fun... I thought I would share a few of our actual engagement photos 🙊.  Actual situation: I was hysterical with mascara running down my face, flat/straight hair because my hair dryer and curling iron both broke when I tried using European converters, my sunglasses are on my head and a giant hair tie on my wrist, but nothing else in the world mattered at that moment - it was the most magical night of my life.

My style has changed in the last couple of years.  I will always love color, but I am finding myself drawn towards quieter colors (less neon) - however, I wore this dress a ton (as well as lent it to several friends!).  Here is an updated version of this dress - I always love BCBG.  I am 5'3 and the dresses there always fit me really well and rarely need tailoring.  From our recent shoot, the fur vest I am wearing is probably my favorite thing I have purchased this season! I wear it all the time with everything, there are only a few sizes left in the blush I am wearing, but have linked several colors below.  

This post is in collaboration with The Diamond Reserve. As always, all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible! 

Snowshoe Adventure

Hi Guys!

Happy Tuesday!  I hope you had a great long weekend!  Jonny and I spent a few days in the mountains skiing then rushed down to Denver and enjoyed a Broncos win - woot woot! 

Growing up, my mom used to go snowshoeing and I though she was crazy for ever taking the time to snowshoe over ski.  Jonny and I adventured around our cabin on some snowshoes about a month ago and I have been hooked since!  

Recently, some friends and I took our pups on a little snowshoe adventure and now they are hooked too!!  It is such a fun way to spend time with your friends while enjoying the outdoors.  Living in beautiful Colorado it is the perfect way to explore our amazing environment - right in our backyard.

Liz and I both opted for vests and sweaters since it was a gorgeous, sunny day!  This vest that I wore is 30% off today and free shipping with code puzzle - limited sizes an colors left (also like this one and this one)! Her pup, Gus, and Charlie Brown are besties so it is always fun to do active outdoor things with them together.  I have been wearing pom pom hats as often as possible.  We got ours at little boutique in Breckenridge (and I have since purchased them in white, black, and orange!) but this is a great option with several colors to choose from.  I have said this a few times, but I never in a million years thought I would purchase a pair of "rain boots" living in CO, but I have gotten more wear out of these red Hunters more than any other boot this season!  And they are really actually great in snow, just need a thick sock to keep your toesies warm.  I have also been on the hunt to find an orange puffer like my friend Brit's (Brit is the adorable girlfriend of my lovely photographer, Corey, and a great photographer herself! Check out both of their work here and here)- no such luck in finding her exact jacket so far! But I do love this one (40% off)  and it will hopefully get here in time to cheer on the Broncos on Sunday!!!

Have a wonderful short week!

xo

Staples and Sparkles

Hi Friends!!

Hope your week has been FANTASTIC!  It has been a fun and exciting week around here... last fall Jonny and I booked a trip to Thailand, but were unable to go because we both ended up having work conflicts.  Two nights ago we rebooked it - leaving next month!! And I have been beyond excited and crazy distracted since (the baby elephant obsession is REAL!).

Last weekend Zoe (who I mentioned is a big foodie!) took me to some amazing places when I visited her in New York.  Chelsea Market alone was one of my favorite stops.  I love farmers markets and it felt like an indoor, fancy, farmers market with every type of restaurant you can imagine... We went with Bar Suzette for lunch - seriously the most delicious and filling crepe I have ever had!! Other memorable stops were brunch at Jane, and a snack from By Chloe a vegan (although you would never know it) restaurant.

My sisters and I are big musical nerds, so clearly we had to see a show!  We went back and forth between Les Mis and Finding Neverland... after much deliberation we went with Finding Neverland because Matthew Morrison is only in it for a few more days.  

When I am packing I am always sure to bring a blazer - it is the perfect multi purpose piece for a trip that can easily be dressed up or down (and a classic you can always count on - this one is three years old!)!  I wore this sparkly blazer (old also love this one and this one) to brunch with these jeans and these boots then paired with these leather leggings and these heels for dinner and the show in the evening.  PS I put all of my essentials in this clutch (steal $39) and throw it inside my large tote when traveling!

Have a wonderful weekend!!

xo

A Few Days in NYC

Hi Friends!

Happy Tuesday!  I have missed you!!  It was hard leaving New York because I had such a wonderful time with with my sister (affectionately called Bo.... not that it is any shorter than Zoe, but anyway...).  But I have to admit, it is really nice to be home.  I have been out of town really for the last three weeks and yesterday felt great being in our own house and starting to get organized and check things off our list for the new year.

The first night we arrived in the City, Jonny had a work dinner so Zoe and I went exploring.  I have visited New York often enough, but this is the first time I have since Zoe moved there almost two years ago (yes, she gave me a pretty hard time about it too!).  It was such a fun experience having her as my tour guide (proud big sister moments).  She is a big foodie so we pretty much ate our way through the city (will share my favorite spots later this week!).

We ventured from our hotel through beautiful Grand Central Station.  I was in awe of this gilded and chandelier filled building (I have a bit of an obsession with both, ya know!).  

I packed my lighter weight camel coat $110, in attempts to be a practical packer and didn't want to have to bring a second coat (we won't discuss my full suitcase of shoes 🙊).... The color is such a wonderful neutral and goes great with everything - and the fit and price can't be beat! It was a little on the light side for one very chilly day while we were there, but other than that it was almost perfect for the whole trip.  I have also been wearing this blouse non stop!  It is a great layering piece and will be so fun to wear coming into spring!  My booties are still available in black in a few sizes and on sale $79 (the color I am wearing is sold out).  My purse is also out of stock (sorry!!) but I love this one, this one and this one  (also on sale). 

Also, I stumbled upon an amazing photographer while on my trip - Jen Sosa.  She is super creative and a blast to work with!  So looking forward to shooting with her again soon!!  Jen is based in LA, but travels to NYC often... look her up if you're looking for a lovely photographer in the area!

Hope your week is off to a wonderful start!

xo

Skate In the City

Happy Sweet (20) 16, Friends!

I hope the beginning of your new year is off to a great start!  Jonny and I spent the holidays with our families in the mountains and are just getting caught up with real life - it is always a little hard getting back into a routine after a long break.  

I put myself on a little blogger break over the holidays (hard, let me tell you!).... little access to social media, no phone, and only a couple posts.  One thing I want to focus on in the new year is being present.  Completely focused on the things I am doing, whether that is family time, my friends or my work and make sure that I am giving each the full attention it deserves.  

Jonny has my heart, but my sisters are really the other half of me... when we are all together, I feel all is right with the world and the giggles are endless.  Normally, I would be in a small depression from everyone leaving after the holidays, but Jonny and I are heading to NYC later this week and will get to see Zoe and his brother, Joe for a few days.... I can't wait!

Zoe and I spent this beautiful, sunny Christmas Eve day ice skating at Skyline Park in Downtown Denver.  If you are visiting, let me tell you, this is the best deal in town (open through mid Feb)! Zoe, who lives in New York,  jaw dropped when she heard it was only a $2 skate rental and lockers were free!  Our dad stopped by and snapped a few photos before he dashed off to finish his Christmas shopping (some things never change).  It was the perfect way to start our Christmas.

I must admit, I thought a tulle skirt (like this one $79 from Patterns and Pops also worn here) could be worn anytime, anywhere, with any footwear... I was mistaken.  Hockey skates are the exception.  However, it was so fun wearing this skirt (similar here and here) and twirling around the rink.  Our fun socks are currently 40% off with code HEY2016 - I have been stocking up on them like crazy!  Zoe's adorable reindeer sweater is out of stock, but I also love this one, this one and this one.  I know Christmas is over, but these sweaters are still perfect for the mountains and a great extra layer for skiing (and look great for après)! 

xo

2015: Here's Looking At You

Happy New Year's Eve, Friends!!!

Looking back on this year, I can't believe the wonderful places that 2015 has taken me.  This year has been such an adventure and has led me to all of you!  Last year, around this time I started thinking there should be a place for people to share their thoughts, express their opinions, and love of their favorite things.... lucky for me, I have a little sister who is much cooler than me, and thumped me on the head and said "you need to start a blog!"

After toying with the idea for a few months and thinking a blog would be impossible - Denver Darling was born.  The last eight months have led to some of the most challenging, yet rewarding times in my life.  It has been amazing to see the growth in the blog and changes in myself since the beginning.  I thought it would be fun to share a few highlights from this past year.

Photography: Emilyanne Hardy

Photography: Andrea Flanagan

Photography: Brandon Hill

Photography: David Gillette 

Photography: Jenny Nelson 

Photography: Corey Anthony

I feel so incredibly grateful, thankful, happy, lucky, - so many words and feelings that I can't explain, for all of the wonderful people that I have partnered and worked with in 2015 to build Denver Darling.  From my graphic designer (Six Leaf Designs - she's amazing!!) to lovely photographers, boutiques, and shops and most importantly all of you lovely people who have supported me: friends, family, and my new friends that I may not know in person yet, but I am so thankful for your friendship and support virtually (can't wait to meet you in person btw!).

My husband deserves a special shoutout: I can't thank Jonny enough for being my biggest fan and constant supporter... he never signed up to be my editor in chief, photo shoot extra, or hashtag consultant... but he always does it with a smile.

Happy New Year everyone... May 2016 be the best one yet!!  Love you all!

xo 

PS - shop a few of my favorites below (the midi skirt I am wearing here from my first shoot is on sale for $58!) and this coat that seemed to be a fan-favorite, from my Vail shoot (with the big band-aid from my scooter accident... oh the lessons we learn!) there are only a few left!!

Shine The Brightest - New Year's Looks!!

Hi Friends!!

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and had a nice, relaxing break with your loved ones.  I am so sorry for the lack of posts the last few days, but I have been trying to unplug a bit and focus on my fam during this most wonderful time of the year.

I did want to make sure to get some sparkly looks up for your fun New Year's plans!  We will be spending the next week in the mountains so have been trying to figure out what I will be wearing that has plenty of sparkle, but enough coverage that I won't freeze while out and about!  I love these sequin joggers ($98) with this cream lace turtleneck ($29.95) and these earrings for a casual, yet glam look (that will certainly be comfortable as well!).  I always love a sequin, long sleeve dress for NYE, and adore mock turtlenecks - so this sequin swing dress ($115) is the perfect little combo of coverage, sass and sparkle for a chilly New Year's night out.  This Kate Spade clutch would be perfect to add a little sparkle to any outfit (bonus: it's on sale! $47) - this champagne bottle clutch is also festive and adorable!  (Shop all of the sparkly looks, plus a few more, below or by clicking on the picture above!)

What fun plans to do you have for NYE? 

xo

Baked with Love

Hi Friends!!

Christmas and baking go hand in hand.  The two also remind me of my grandma.  She was the baking queen - so Christmas prep was very serious business at her house.  Growing up, baking days were always special days that all of the women in my moms family spent together.  My grandmother worked in a bakery so her house always smelled like fresh baked deliciousness.  She instilled in her seven children and twenty eight grand children (yes, 28!) a love of baking and spending time together (she absolutely loooooved to feed people).... 

Each year, at Christmas time, my sisters, mom and I spend the day baking all of my grandma's famous cookies.  There is plenty of Christmas music, and a finale of Love Actually.  It has become a favorite tradition in our house.  This year, mom and I spent the day baking together since my sisters are just getting in to town (yippeeee!).

Each year, at Christmas time, my sisters, mom and I spend the day baking all of my grandma's famous cookies.  There is plenty of Christmas music, and a finale of Love Actually.  It has become a favorite tradition in our house.  This year, mom and I spent the day baking together since my sisters are just getting in to town (yippeeee!).

Grandma's Sugar Cookies

InGredients:

• 1 1/2 cups butter (softened)
• 2 cups white sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla
• 5 cups flour
• 2 tsp. baking powder
• pinch of salt

Instructions:

• Cream together softened butter with sugar, beat in eggs and vanilla, stir in dry ingredients.
• chill dough 2 hours (or overnight if possible)
• thaw dough for 10 minutes before rolling - cut in 4 sections
• pre-heat oven to 400
• roll and cut dough on floured surface 
• bake for 8-10 minutes (on ungreased cookie sheet) - until edges are brown

Haystack Cookies (aka - the easiest/yummiest cookies you can ever make!)

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 bags chocolate chips
• 1 1/2 bags butterscotch chips
• 1 large bag of chow mein noodles - I like La Choy (or 2 cans like this)
• 3/4 cup of any nut that you love (I use peanuts or pecans)

Instructions:

• melt chocolate and butterscotch chips on medium heat, add noodles and nut, mix together
• while hot, spoon large spoonfuls on wax paper
• cool
• (dog owners, keep out of reach of your pups... Charlie brown is sometimes a counter jumper and we have made one too many vet visits around the holidays due to his curious nose).

Thank you Corey Anthony as always for snapping these fun photos of my momma and me, and you can snag this adorable tray and personalized ornament or other fun entertaining items from White Elephant Designs - love their stuff!

A Very Merry Yogi Christmas!

Hi Friends,

I hope you had a wonderful weekend!! If you have visited my about me page you might already know that I LOVE yoga.  It is the one thing that I try to do every day to keep me sane and has changed my mind and body in so many ways.  I started visiting CorePower a little over three years ago (sign up for your first week free here) - before then, I didn't have a workout that I loved and did daily.  I would run sometimes or start a workout class, but nothing ever felt like a fit like CorePower did.  For me, it can be encouraging when when I need it, relaxing if I need to get my mind off things... or just a good workout.

Last week an instructor said something that really resonated with me and I thought was a perfect mantra to start the new year... "You must acknowledge where you are to see how far you have come."  I thought that was such an important piece of advice.  We all need to remember to acknowledge our little achievements because they have pushed us to where we are today.  Last year, Denver Darling was just a little idea in the back of my head and has grown so much in the last six months. Working on my blog and meeting all of you has been such a wonderful experience and achievement for me.

If you are looking for some last minute gifts, CorePower has some great Christmas items for the yogi on your list!  Starting with $100 gift cards for $80 to go towards classes or apparel (love that!).  Which is perfect to go towards these adorable holiday inspired tops and bottoms that are unique to CP.  The pieces below are so great for the winter season and can't help but put a smile on your face.  Fun fact: CorePower started in Denver!!

Find these fun pieces at most local CorePowers (find a location near you here).  Also, if you (or your loved one) have been thinking of joining you can sign up for a free full week of yoga and other fun classes here.

Thank you to one of my favorite instructors at Lohi, Kristal, for jumping in and making sure our poses looked 👌! And thank you to my partner in yoga and crime (Liz Ryan) for always being up for a fun shoot!

Hope your week is off to a wonderful start!

Namaste!

Gift Guide - Every Day Favorites!

Raindrops on roses... and whiskers on kittens... bright copper kettle and warm woolen mittens!  Ok - I wont sing anymore, but that is definitely one of my favorite movies of all time!  In case you are still looking for some last minute gift ideas I will still have a few more gift guides for you the next couple of days! Today's gift guide is a list of tried and true things that I have, love and use on the reg!

I wear my glossy red Hunters everywhere (I wore here and here) and they have been such a fun addition to my winter boots,  even in the 12 inches of snow we just got in Denver!  I know us gals (sometimes) think about fashion over functionality, but these have tons of traction so are actually great in the snow - and perfect warm with a thick sock like these cute and cozy ones ($16.50 / 40% off with code BRNICK).   

Until this year, I never imagined myself getting use out of my white jeans much after summer.  I have gotten more wear out of these jeans (I wore here) this fall and winter, more than any other pair in my closet.  And love this personalized wrap ($48) that is very similar to this one here. 

I recently wore this coat - $139 + 20% off and free shipping with code dontmelt - (for our Christmas pictures here!) and have been wearing it non stop since! It so warm and cozy, yet has a tailored fit and not overly bulky which sometimes happens with warm winter coats.

Makeup is such a great stocking stuffer!  I have had a few emails about my favorite makeup essentials.  These are them! I love mascara... I could happily leave the house without most makeup, but just feel naked without mascara.  I love the Extreme Party mascara  - it can be layered on without clumping and still makes lashes look thick and long.  I have been loading on this Extra Lip tint - it is the perfect mix of a chapstick and lipstick.... so perfect for moisturizing and adding a little color.

I am always happy to answer any questions! Please feel free to email them or comment with them below :).  Hope your week has been wonderful!

xo