Mistresses “Odd Couples” Recap

This week on Mistresses, Joss (Jess Macallan) makes a new friend in Calista (Jennifer Esposito) and April (Rachelle Aytes) has to deal with the fallout from Paul’s scandal.

April finds out that she has to pay the insurance company back for Paul’s death benefit so she needs a lawyer to help fight the case. As Savi is out of the country and Dom is unavailable, Toni (Rebeka Montoya) fills in. She wore a blue sheath dress. I found this Nine West Cap-Sleeve Ruched Sheath ($49.98) to recreate the look:

nine west

Karen (Yunjin Kim) goes through her donation procedure but doesn’t realize how much energy it will take out out of her. She is struggling the next day, but her doctor, and Vivian’s husband Alec (Ed Quinn) makes a house call to take care of her. Karen feels better the next day and heads off to work in a sold out sleeveless H&M dress. This Adrianna Papell Floral and Line Printed Pleated Sheath Dress ($140) is similar:

hm

April is dealing with roommate issues now that Mark (Rob Mayes) is living with her. They seem to work their problems out, except for having to pay back the insurance company. Unfortunately, none of this helps her with Lucy (Corinne Massiah) who is entering the teenage angst phase a little early. April wore the Joie Cantoria Blouse ($195). This Adrianna Papell Floral-Print Crossover Front Hi-Low Top ($99) is similar:

joie

Joss experiences a roller coaster of emotions this episode, with a Calista meltdown and suspicions of Harry (Brett Tucker) showing interest in someone else. That seems to make her more interested because at the end of the episode she pays him a booty call visit wearing the sold out JCrew Foil Striped Tank Top. This Gold Trim Khaki Vest Trim ($35) is similar:

jcrew

If you missed it, you can still watch it on iTunes.

For more Mistresses recaps, click here.



The Night Begins with Botran Rum

Disclosure: I received a complimentary sample of Botran Rum in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Rum has been my drink of choice for a long time. John first introduced me to my favorite, rum and Diet Coke, and that’s what I will usually drink when it’s time for liquor. (Side note: I don’t drink soda, except when I am drinking rum). To some, this may seem like a pretty plain or even bland drink, which is why I got excited about doing a summer cocktail post with Botran Rum.

BotranReserva

Botran Rum is made with sugar cane from Guatemala and is the perfect choice for sophisticated cocktails. I decided to try one of Botran’s recipes, called a Piña-Ta.

PinataI’ve been growing fresh rosemary, so I jumped at the chance to make this recipe. I didn’t think it would be too difficult to put this together at home with some ice and my cocktail shaker.

ingredients

One thing to note, I didn’t get the simple syrup and I realize that I should do that for next time. I think it would help make the drink sweeter, but at the time I wasn’t sure where to get rosemary syrup. As a cocktail making novice, I may have shaken everything up too much (I sort of got into it) because it was really foamy when I poured it into the glass. I’m really happy with how it turned out though and would love to serve some of these at my next event.

pinata finalI loved my first Botran cocktail and can’t wait to make more! Here are a few of the additional recipes I want to try:

mojito

colada

rum punch

I also saw some other ways to get creative without soda. For example, I could take my extra watermelon and puree it adding rum for a fruity cocktail. I would love to hear your ideas for new Botran Rum recipes and help me step up my cocktail game!


Suits “Denial” Recap

Season five opens with a dream sequence and we see that Harvey (Gabriel Macht) is dealing with Donna (Sarah Rafferty) leaving him. In the dream sequence Jessica is wearing an all white suit. This Calvin Klein Blazer ($64.99) and Pencil Skirt ($54.98) are similar:

Calvin Klein suit

Dream Donna wore a sold out Bow Front Cutout Dress by Burberry. This C. Luce Sheath Dress with Bow ($24) is similar:

Burberry

Donna is determined to be Louis’ (Rick Hoffman) secretary and she throws out all of his other resumes until she can convince him that she means business. I am guessing she wore the Donna Karan Belted Stretch Crepe Dress ($1,495) or something very similar. I found this Express Long Sleeve Surplice Dress ($59.90) to recreate the look:

dkny

Harvey is not taking Donna’s abandonment lightly and it seems to be affecting him more than he realizes. Jessica (Gina Torres) confronts him and asks him to close a new deal for the firm. She wore a the sold out Alexander McQueen Tailored Silk Mikado Jacket. I found this Lasting Moments Peplum Jacket Dress ($368) that is similar and you could mix and match the dress and the jacket.

Alexander McQueen

Donna interrupts Louis during his lunch to tell him that she officially starts as his secretary today, which culminates in a weird sexual innuendo banter between them. Donna looks smashing in a black trench. This Calvin Klein Double-Breasted Belted Trench Coat ($99.98) is similar:

Calvin Klein

As Donna and Louis kick off day two of their new working relationship, he is having a hard time believing that she isn’t going to leave him for Harvey. Donna wore the Cady Dress by Armani Collezioni ($765). This Light Blue Draped V-neck Sleeveless A-line Short Cascade Dress ($110.67) is similar:

armani

Harvey’s worst fears are coming true and Jessica calls him out for not being able to get shit done without Donna. She demands that he get it together or she will. She has on an awesome cape style jacket with fur detail on the sleeves. This fur trimmed cape ($63.99) is similar:

Fur cape

Donna and Louis come up with their own team ritual to solidify the fact that she isn’t going back to Harvey. Donna wore a beautiful dress with rose graphics. This Calvin Klein Floral Knit Sheath Dress ($118) has a similar style:

floral sheath

In the end, Harvey is starting to come around to the fact that Donna isn’t coming back, but he is still dealing with panic attacks. It is really interesting to watch his character deal with this because he is so used to being in control.

Donna buys Rachel (Meghan Markle) Tiffany’s to celebrate her engagement and to thank her for doing all of Harvey’s extra work. Harvey in turn takes Mike (Patrick Adams) to the Nets game…front row.

All is well for now, but this is only the first episode…

What did you think about this episode of Suits?

If you this episode you can still watch it here.

For more Suits recaps, click here.



2015 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

It’s here! The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is upon us and I wanted to give you the lowdown to make the most of it. Right now, the sale is open to Nordstrom card holders until July 17th when it is open to the public. Now don’t worry, you don’t have to get a store credit card, you can get a Nordstrom debit card that hooks up to your bank account sort of like PayPal. It gives you all of the same points and perks that card holders get without racking up a big debt. You can read more about it here. This year’s sale runs until August 3rd, but you want to get your favorite items early in case they sell out.

logo

Here are some of my must haves from this year’s sale:

1. Kate Spade Glitter Stud Earrings (Sale $24.90, Originally $38)

I have a number of these already, but the glitter ones have been out of stock for a while so I snapped up the multi glitter ones right away. I may also need to take a second pass for the silver glitter pair.

kate spade glitter studs

2. Nike Free 5.0 TR Fit 5 Breathe Training Shoe (Sale $74.90, Originally $100)

You can always use a new pair of sneakers.

Nike

3. Zella Live In Capris (Sale $28.90, Originally $44)

I have a pair of Zella capris and I love them. This is the best time to stock up so I figured I would start with the basic black.

Zella live in capris

4. Smashbox Studio Pro 10-Piece Brush Set (Sale $89, Originally $225)

What an amazing deal and a great opportunity to refresh your brush set.

Smashbox brush set

5. Michael Kors Slim Runway Crystal Bezel Chronograph Bracelet Watch (Sale $183.90, Originally $275)

The Anniversary Sale is a great time to invest in a Michael Kors watch. Iadded this one because I need a plan silver watch to add to my collection.

Michael Kors watch

6. Kendra Scott Rayne Stone Tassel Pendant Necklace (Sale $52.90, Originally $80)

I’ve wanted one of these for a while and you can’t beat this price!

Kendra Scott

7. MAC Look in a Box – Fashion Lover Lip Kit (Sale $29.50, Originally $47)

This includes the Flat Out Fabulous color, which is one of my Summer Favorites.

MAC lip set

8. Adrianna Papell Scalloped Crepe Sheath Dress (Sale $78.90, Originally $110)

You can never have enough black dresses and I love how this one has a little cap sleeve.

Adrianna Papell

9. Michael Kors Essex Hobo (Sale $218.90, Originally $328)

This bag is a classic, so gorgeous!

Essex Hobo

10. Kate Spade Avaline Aviator Sunglasses (Sale $109.90, Originally $165)

I sort of love these…who doesn’t need a pair of aviators?

kate spade aviators

11. Tahari Angelina Zip Collar Leather Moto Jacket (Sale $199.90, Originally $300)

I really wanted a moto jacket last year, but never got one. This is awesome and a great deal.

Tahari

12. PMD Personal Microderm Device (Sale $106.53, Originally $159)

I’ve been meaning to write a post about the PMD because I LOVE it! I got mine a while back before they had different colors, but I totally would have wanted a pink one!

PMD

13. Jessica Simpson Carlette Ankle Strap Pump (Sale $69.90, Originally $109.95)

I love these in the red!

Jessica Simpson

14. Poncho & Goldstein Custom Wine List Wall Art (Sale $46.90, Originally $70)

This would be amazing in our new home!

wine art

15. Hue Ultra Wide Waistband Leggings (Sale $23.90, Originally $36)

I’ve talked about these leggings before and they are still awesome. The sale is a great opportunity to stock up before the fall.

hue

There are many more amazing deals, so just use this as an opportunity to stock up for fall!

What are your favorite picks from the Anniversary Sale?



Mistresses “I’ll Be Watching You” Recap

As we kick off this episode Karen (Yunjin Kim) is learning all of the benefits of living with Joss (Jess Macallan) including her lack of cleanliness. Karen is wearing the Elie Tahari Isabella Dress ($199.99). This Marc New York by Andrew Marc Floral Printed Shift Dress ($59) is similar:

Elie Tahari

Joss meets our new mistress Calista Raines (Jennifer Esposito) when she steals Joss’ parking spot. Joss wore the Dad’s Shirt by Lacausa ($110). This We The Free Dreamer Tank ($49.95) is similar:

Dad's Shirt

April (Rochelle Aytes) is having a fun time adjusting to Marc (Rob Mayes) and Scotty’s lifestyle. She unfairly judges him and has to go to his trailer to apologize and offer her help. She wore the Free People Raw Linen Drapey Jacket ($82.99):

Free People

All throughout the episode Karen keeps getting stood up, first by April then by Joss, so she decides to spend some time with Vivian (Sonja Bennett) during her treatments. Karen wore the sold out Alejandra Snakeskin Print Split Back Silk Blouse by Elie Tahari. This Elie Tahari Kaylee Printed Zip-Front Blouse ($92.26):

Eli Tahari Alejandra

Joss teams up with our new mistress Calista to try and catch her husband in the act. Joss doesn’t end up getting the picture because she thought Savi was calling her. Calista tries to help her get past this and learn to let go and live without Savi. Joss is having a hard time with everything especially since she isn’t with Harry (Brett Tucker) at the moment. Joss wore the La Lune Foiled Muscle Tee ($29) while talking on the phone to Harry.

la lune

April finally decides to let Scotty and Mark move in with her and Lucy (Corinne Massiah) in hopes that Lucy will finally come around. Everyone is excited, but it doesn’t get Lucy to warm up to her at all.

April and Joss meet Karen for church and I can’t believe Joss tries to eat fried chicken in church!

We end the episode with Calista introducing herself to Harry in sort of questionable way…not sure what she is doing here.

Episode two with no Savi and I think so far so good. What did you think so far?

If you missed it, you can still watch it on iTunes or Hulu.

For more Mistresses recaps, click here.



Lighten Up With Vera Bradley

Disclosure: As part of the SWMI Sip & Stroll wine tour, I received a Vera Bradley Tote to review. All opinions are my own.

You may have seen my previous posts on the fun #SWMISipStroll wine tour that I recently participated in. If not you can catch up with them herehere and here. One of the biggest surprises of the trip was the gorgeous Vera Bradley Big Tote that we received upon arrival.

Vera Bradley

Mine was in the Confetti Stripe pattern and some of the other ladies received the Palm Fronds, Midnight Sun and Marrakesh Beads. This was the perfect color for summer and makes a great work tote! This was my first Vera Bradley bag which made me curious to see what else I might like from the most recent line. Since I received my tote, I’ve been following Vera Bradley on Instagram and have been expanding my wish list to include some of these fun pieces:

Harper Clutch ($148)

I thought this clutch in white was super cute for summer outings. It would have been perfect for some of my recent outfits.

Harper Clutch

Quilted Harper Clutch ($148)

On that note, I also loved the quilted version. It has a Chanel like quality to it and the blush color is so feminine.

Quilted harper clutch

Die-Cut Notecards ($18)

I’ve really wanted to step up my correspondence game, like sending thoughtful notes to friends and families and being better about sending thank you notes. Maybe if I had these darling cards it would be easier…

notecard

Whimsy Hybrid Hardshell Case for iPhone 5 ($38)

I may have mentioned that I love pineapples for summer and this one is no different! So fun!

pineapple

Flower Enamel Bracelet ($58)

I need more turquoise in my life, starting with this cute flower bracelet.

bracelet

What are your favorite Vera Bradley pieces?



Bachelorette 11 – Week Six

Continuing from last week, we see Ian’s exit after an insulting conversation with Kaitlyn. I couldn’t believe how full of himself Ian was. What a tool. #ByeFelicia

Nick made a smart move by going to comfort Kaitlyn while the rest of the guys just sat their. Hindsight is 20/20 and Nick has certainly learned a few things on his second time around. Their chemistry is undeniable, I’ve watched this show for a long time and I don’t think I’ve ever seen such an obvious connection before.

At the rose ceremony Justin and Josh were sent home. I felt a little bad for Josh since his hair got butchered and then he got the boot. Hopefully the first thing he does upon returning home is get a haircut. The guys find out that they are traveling to Dublin, Ireland for the next week and everyone is super excited to get out of the country.

On her ITM Kaitlyn couldn’t be more excited to fall in love in Ireland. For the interview she wore an IRO Biker Jacket ($941.50) and the Brooklyn Designs Aqua Chalcedony Ring. This Textured Knit Moto Jacket from Express ($98) is similar:

IRO biker jacket

First up is the one-on-one date and Kaitlyn chooses Nick, which makes Shawn insane. Kaitlyn and Nick are like two freight trains on a collision course…nobody can come between them at this point. Like I said earlier, their chemistry is undeniable which makes all the other guys uncomfortable. Kaitlyn wore the Blaine Pullover from One Grey Day ($184) and GOLDSIGN Lure Skinny Jeans ($228). This Pullover Sweater with Bar Back ($34) is similar:

One grey day

Kaitlyn is wearing the Robyn Rhodes Claire Oval Silver Druzy Pendant ($54):

Robyn rhodes druzy

Whew! Someone fan off my laptop, because this date with Kaitlyn and Nick is HOTT! These two can’t keep their hands off of each other and I don’t blame them. Nick is coming across really sweet and if I was her I would probably be giving him a rose too. You don’t find that kind of connection everyday. Kaitlyn wore a Knit Turtleneck Dress from Barney’s ($750) and a really cute horn ring from The Woods. To recreate her look I found a Banana Republic Black TurtleNeck Dress ($98) and this House of Harlow Horn Ankolie Ring ($48):

Barneys

For the group date the guys go to a very creepy Irish wake for Kaitlyn. Seeing her in the casket is just creepy. Everyone makes the best of it and has fun. Kaitlyn looks good in a sold out Jean Paul Gaultier Tattoo Lace Dress. This Adrianna Papell Long Sleeve Lace Sheath Dress ($158) is similar:

jean paul gaultier

On the evening portion of the group date Kaitlyn gets some one-on-one time with Ben Z. who had a hard time at the wake. She wore the sold out ALC Mike Tiered Sleeveless Top and the sold out Joseph Zip Pocket Leggings. This Bisou Bisou Sleeveless Tiered Blouse ($12.99) and BB Dakota Judy Faux Leather Legging ($24.99) are similar:

ALC Mike Tiered Top

Her necklaces are Robyn Rhodes Jeremy ($98) worn in the vertical position and Brooklyn Designs Easton:

robyn rhodes

Shawn is having a hard time on this group date and pretty much loses it when Kaitlyn gives Jared the rose and takes him to a private concert with the Cranberries. Shawn reveals that Kaitlyn told him that he was the one in San Antonio and he thinks she is ruining what they have by not picking him for everything…does he not realize that he signed up for The Bachelorette? He is really making this difficult for her. On top of this she is terrified that Shawn knows that she slept with Nick, which I don’t think he does at this point. Kaitlyn is distraught that she has ruined everything in her ITM. Kaitlyn wore the Kiki Designs Angel Wings Ring ($128):

Kiki Designs

What did you think about Kaitlyn sleeping with Nick before the fantasy suite and Shawn losing his mind? Lots of craziness this week and I definitely wouldn’t want to be in Kaitlyn’s position. She is definitely torn between these two guys.

If you missed this episode you can still watch it on iTunes.

For more Bachelorette posts, click here.



Summer Bucket List

I was gung ho about doing a summer bucket list this year. Its our first summer in the new house and it might be the last summer before we decide to start a family so I really want to enjoy every second of it. To top it off, I’m not teaching this summer so with only one job to focus on I can really relax. I started making a summer bucket list and the ideas just started flowing. I am challenging myself to try to enjoy each of these activities at least once this summer.

Summer bucket list2

One of the things that really inspired me was looking at some old photos of all the fun we used to have. This one is of John and I at the Michigan Summer Beer Festival from 2007 before we were engaged. So my goal this year is less stress/more fun!

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

I will cross each item off the list and share a new post recapping my adventure, so you can follow along. Let the challenge begin, here is my summer bucket list:

    • Make breakfast and eat it outside
    • Go to brunch on a patio
    • Play miniature golf
    • Go to a baseball game – see my Vacation post here

Progressive Field 2

      • Go to an outdoor concert
      • See fireworks
      • Go to a festival
Tracy and I at Arts, Beats & Eats

Tracy and I at Arts, Beats & Eats

    • Bonfire/make smores
    • Enjoy a day at the pool
    • Go out on the water
    • Go to the drive-in/outdoor movie
    • Walk up to the Dairy Queen for ice cream

dairy queen

  • Go on a hike
  • Stay up late to stargaze
  • Go to the zoo
Ladies Night Out at the Detroit Zoo's Summer Zoomance

Ladies Night Out at the Detroit Zoo’s Summer Zoomance

    • Visit the farmer’s market
    • Take a road trip
Summer Vacation Road Trip!

Summer Vacation Road Trip!

  • Go to a carnival
  • Go to the beach
  • Visit a historical site/tour
  • Go on a picnic
Family picnic for 4th of July with my niece Abigail

Family picnic for 4th of July with my niece Abigail

  • Read a book outside
  • Kiss on top of a Ferris wheel
  • Enjoy a root beer float

Root Beer Float

  • Go to the batting cages
  • Play Frisbee golf
  • Eat watermelon
  • Go on vacation
  • Eat lunch on the riverwalk
  • Visit a museum
  • Go to a beer festival
John and I attended The Big Grill Burgers & Beers Bash

John and I attended The Big Grill Burgers & Beers Bash

    • Go on a Michigan staycation
    • Meet friends for happy hour
    • Drink Summer Shandy

Summer shandy

  • Have dinner al fresco
Dinner at Mesa in Royal Oak

Dinner at Mesa in Royal Oak

    • Make limoncello
    • Have a frozen drinks night
Frozen pina coladas!

Frozen pina coladas!

  • Outdoor yoga
  • Enjoy Fountain Bistro’s margarita pitcher
  • Attend a Whitney Garden Party
  • Attend a wine terrace tasting
  • Go to the Renaissance Festival
  • Enjoy Shakespeare in the park
  • Go outlet shopping

I may still add more to this list, so I would love to hear what’s on your bucket list! Stay tuned as I complete each item on the list, I can’t wait for an amazing summer!



Mistresses “Gone Girl” Recap

Season 3 of Mistresses kicks off just like you would imagine a show called Mistresses would – with lots of steamy drama! Note to future mistresses-when cheating on someone make sure to turn off all phones to escape those pesky interruptions. Joss (Jess Macallan) and Harry (Brett Tucker) forgot to do this allowing Karen (Yunjin Kim) to track them down. Unfortunately, it was to let Joss know that Scott’s (Justin Hartley) grandmother had a stroke and she needed to get back to her wedding stat. I liked Karen’s dress, but don’t have an ID for it. I did find this similar Jessica Simpson Blouson Bungee Necklace Dress ($118):

Jessica Simpson Blouson

Lucy (Corinne Massiah) just learned the truth about her father and feels betrayed by April (Rochelle Aytes). She understandably doesn’t want to talk to her as her father is now dead. April wears the Tadashi Shoji Embroidered Lace Sheath Dress ($238):

Tadashi Shoji

April has to tell Lucy the whole truth, which she doesn’t take very well. April wore this Adelia Boho Blouse ($78). You can get a few sizes here for $31.20 and here in white for $44.99:

Adelia blouse

Joss suspects that Savi witnessed her little tryst with Harry and that is why she is missing. She meets Dom (Jason George) for coffee to discover that Savi has quit her job at the firm with no notice. Joss is wearing a fabulous leather moto jacket. I found this similar Calvin Klein Jeans Faux-Leather Moto Jacket ($148):

Calvin Klein

Meanwhile, Karen pays a visit to her doctor for a follow up after her negative HIV test. She is furious when she finds out that he has profiled her blood without her permission and asks her to donate her rare blood type. Karen wore a sold out Floral Printed T-Shirt from Zara. I liked this DKNYC Layered Multimedia Blouse ($89.50) to recreate the look:

Zara

After Joss’ life implodes, she is stuck staying with Karen until she can find a place. What’s worse is she discovers that Savi was still in love with Harry. Joss wore a sold out Snake Print Tank from Haute Hippie. I found a similar look with this Joie Printed Cotton Racerback Tank ($148):

Haute Hippie

Joss is falling apart, but Karen has to leave to meet with the doctor and Joss’ problems will have to wait. Karen wears a sold out Doji 2 Sleeveless Colorblock Sheath Dress by O’2nd and carries the Banstraw bag by Aldo ($25). This JAX Lace Panelled Sheath Dress ($148) is similar:

o2nd

At the end of the episode we meet our newest mistress Calista Raines (Jennifer Esposito) who’s husband is cheating on her. She has a standout red caftan style maxi dress on. I found this Ladies Summer Party Kaftan Style Red Maxi Dress by MontyQ ($45) to try to recreate the look:

red maxi

What did you think of the season opener minus Alyssa Milano? Personally, I thought Joss was a little clueless per usual. How do you hook up with your sister’s ex-husband and think it’s okay?! Although anyone could see that their relationship has crossed too many boundries for a long time.

If you missed it, you can still watch it on iTunes or Hulu.

For more Mistresses recaps, click here.



Just Add Beer

Disclosure: I received a complimentary sample of beer bread from Boardwalk Food Company in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Have you ever had your husband tell you he has invited friends over at the last minute? Or a friend or family member just deciding to stop by when they were in the area? What happens if your refrigerator is bare?

Since we moved into our new home earlier this year, I’ve been doing more entertaining. One of my best hostess tips is to always keep beer bread in my pantry. It is the perfect thing to throw in the oven as soon as you know company is coming.

Boardwalk

Boardwalk Food Company was generous enough to send me their Rosemary Sea Salt Beer Bread Mix to try and it didn’t disappoint. This beer bread is SO easy to make. All you have to do is throw the mix and a can of beer into a bowl, mix it up and stick it in the oven. About an hour later it is done and your house smells amazing. My husband had some leftover beer in the fridge and I stole it to make this amazing bread.

miller lite

The Rosemary Sea Salt Bread is extra fun because it has amazing flavor. Nobody thinks you just threw this together from a mix, you could definitely pass it off as your own. I’ve been growing some rosemary at home and thought it would make the perfect garnish for the bread. At the end of our get together, there wasn’t even a bread crumb left, the beer bread was a hit! The rosemary makes the bread smell SO good! We couldn’t get enough!

beer bread

beer bread2

beer bread 1

Boardwalk also offers other amazing flavors like Lemon Poppy Seed, Cornbread and of course the Original. All the breads retail for $7.99

Now that I’ve shared my secret hostess weapon with you, I want to hear what yours is? Do you keep beer bread in your pantry, or do you have another secret weapon?



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