A few things to brighten our day, stuff I love

I want to share a few things that I've been enjoying lately.

First, we tossed our dated glassware (c. 2000) for a set of euro milk glasses and now breakfast time feels luxurious. Anthropologie appears out of stock online, but you can still pick them up in-store, and they were only 4.00/glass. They are a perfect fit for my hand and they are pretty to look at. As for durability, the checkout girl told me that she nannies children who use these glasses daily (and drop them, a lot) and that they have held up well against the inevitable abuse.

Also from Anthropologie, the farmers egg crate.  After rediscovering hard boiled eggs over Easter, it's nice to have a functional yet artful way to store and serve them.

Okay, one last thing from Anthro: stoneware farmer's market baskets! We display our fruit on the dining room table because it makes a cheerful centerpiece and so that a quick snack is always within reach--even for Roscoe. I loved these baskets when I saw them last season, and they must be a hit because they are still around.  We have the large size in white, although the colorful ones scream summertime and were hard to resist. Either way, these baskets make a charming presentation for fresh produce or as lively kitchen storage.

Esther Perel explores the questions Can we desire what we already have? and Does good intimacy always make for hot sex?  Okay really, this is fascinating and you need to read it. Her writing style is passionate and really powerful. The chapter on parenthood, when three threatens two, is just, wow.  I'm serious.  Go get your copy.

A few months ago I found myself in need of a beauty product pick me up and in the mood to try something new (I've been a Clinique fan since college). I decided to give Kiehl's a go and ordered the ultra facial oil-free cleanser, and the ultra facial oil-free toner and I can't say enough good things about the line. It is amazing and has completely changed the texture of my skin. I mean it. Also, the creamy eye treatment with avocado is an indulgence but I just really enjoy the morning ritual of applying it--the consistency is so fun (it comes out of the pot a thick cream and transforms into what feels like water as you rub it in)--and it works, the skin around my eyes is uncharacteristically supple and moisturized.  I've since ordered quite a few more hair and bath products and have yet to be disappointed.  I bought the facial fuel energizing scrub for Andy but I sneak it a few times a week because it is so awesome. Do you use Kiehl's?  Do you have any product recommendations?

Every now and then I go to Mango for a shellac manicure. Have you heard of shellac? It's a gel polish that creates a no maintenance manicure that can last up to 3 weeks. It feels revolutionary compared to a traditional manicure, which, no matter what I do, never lasts longer than 3 days (tops!). Maybe you can relate. I am now convinced that a manicure done right can be a worthwhile service. Plus, don't you just feel polished and put together when your nails are glossy?

For the locals, Pearl's Cupcake Shoppe was voted #1 in the Richmond.com Bestie's 2012. Gratefully, we were introduced to the cupcake magic within days of arriving to our new neighborhood last October.  We frequent this place far too often. No one in our family turns down a cupcake, although that may not be unique to us, but we especially love the frosting (oh my, it is delicious) and the imaginative combinations that are available. Check out the flavors.