New Year, New You

This year, on January 1, I quit the gym. This was no easy feat. I stopped in, I asked for the manager (who was unavailable), I called, I emailed, I went back the next day. When I finally sat down with the guy, visions of the episode of Friends where Chandler tries to quit (and has to bring Ross for moral support) flashed in my head. But I did it! And in 30 days—the notice that’s required—I will be out! 😉

Don’t get me wrong: It’s not that I don’t want to work out/get in shape/etc. It’s just that I have been in denial about a strategy that isn’t working for me: my gym membership. Lately, I’ve been way more motivated to run outdoors, throw on a workout DVD, or take a yoga class. Plus, add extra long hours at the office to the equation and I’m lucky if I get to the gym before 9 p.m. 

So: It’s 2015! I’m taking a new approach. I’m also facing reality. If the temperatures drop (like they’re supposed to this week), I’m going to try out the gym at my office. Convenience is key!

What are your resolutions for 2015? 

(Illustrations via the New York Times)

The weekend is here!

My dearest readers! I can’t believe it’s the weekend—and another year has gone by. 2014 was a total blur, filled with lots of friends, adventure and fun. Thank you so much for continuing to read my blog. Lots of exciting changes are coming to it in the new year! I so appreciate that you stay in touch and keep up. 

This December has gone by in a blink, too. I’m off for the next two weeks (taking a vacation from the blog, too!), but you can catch me on Instagram for lots of holiday updates and more.

Wishing you a lovely holiday!

xoxo

Rachel

PS: A helpful tip for New Year’s Eve!

Wreath Witherspoon

I’m always in the mood for crafting, but I’ve been feeling particularly inspired over the last few weeks. Maybe it’s because I saw this awesome (could be DIY!) hostess idea, but it may also be the fact that I love Mindy Kaling’s Wreath Witherspoon idea. Hilarious!

On the hunt for another clever celebrity-themed Christmas project? Check out this Ryan Gosling wrapping paper! I mean, who wouldn’t want to open a gift covered in that?!

(Image 1, 2, 3)

A Cappella Christmas

I’m one of those people who starts listening to holiday music in November. I can’t help it! A festive playlist always yanks me away from the pressure of the season (Like holiday shopping! And accelerated deadlines!) and puts me in just the right spirit. My regular readers know my Christmas tradition: This year, I’m going to hear a cappella music in my hometown. The best!


It got me thinking about my favorite Christmas a cappella tunes that I always have playing on repeat on my iPhone, plus a few new ones I’ve discovered this year. Here, my favorites:


The Christmas Song” by Forte Femme

Watch the video here.

Sleigh Ride” by Pentatonix

Listen to the song here.

Silver Bells” by Rockapella

Listen to the song here.

Text Me Merry Christmas” by Straight No Chaser and Kristen Bell

Watch the video here.

All I Want for Christmas is You” by Out of the Blue

Watch the video here.

Happy a cappella Christmas!

(Image 1, 2)

Hostess Gift Idea: Party horns bouquet

For a holiday party this past weekend, my friend and I were shopping for the perfect hostess gift. We brought a bottle of wine (of course), but we wanted to bring something extra special—and festive! After popping into my favorite neighborhood card shop, we stumbled upon the cutest idea: a party horns bouquet. I know—party horns. Not super original! But the “bouquet” presentation is what makes this gift stand out. In lieu of flowers, it’s a ready-to-use party prop (see photo evidence above) and I loved handing it to the host the same way I would an actual floral bouquet.

Have you stumbled upon any festive hostess gift ideas this year? Do tell!

(Image via Nordstrom)