Autumn Dreaming

I am dreaming of a cool autumn day, enjoying the beautiful fall leaves, while sipping on a delicious pumpkin spice latte, and wearing my beloved fringe minnetonka boots. I have many favorite fall fashions, however I don't think I will ever get sick of all things fringe.

I am sure I am getting ahead of myself, but what are you looking forward to this fall?
XO

All About the Pups

If any of you are somewhat regular readers of The Jem Journal you probably are familiar with our sweet golden retriever, Aurium. This past weekend we have discovered that she is sick with cancer which makes us incredibly sad. I hate to post things that are so discouraging however this is what our weekend was consumed with.

I am a firm believer of eating organic and holistic medicine as much as possible, so it's no surprise that after a little research, I made a trip to Whole Foods yesterday afternoon and made our pup homemade dog food and dog treats. Whether your pup is sick or perfectly healthy, these treats will surely be appreciated and loved by all dogs alike.

I made these yesterday, and I have to say, I would totally eat these myself! I would point out that some dogs are dairy intolerant so be sure to give them a small portion to start with.

Peanut Butter and Banana Pops

-1 32 oz. carton plain organic yogurt

-2 ripe organic bananas

-6 tablespoons organic peanut butter

Mash the bananas with a fork or a blender. Mix the peanut

butter and bananas together and add the yogurt. Mix well and

pour in ice cube trays and freeze them. ( I used lined cupcake tins, as I didn't have ice cube trays)

Homemade Dog Food

-1 lb. organic ground turkey (breast or thigh)

-1/2 c. chopped fresh organic broccoli

-1 c. fresh organic sweet potato

-1/2 c. organic bok choy

-2 tbls. organic cottage cheese

I am still researching, but what I have read thus far this recipe is a good one, and Aurium seems to really enjoy it! I am totally open to any other suggestions or knowledge any of you may have.

XO

A Glass of Sangria

I missed Friday's Fancies last week, so am happy to be back! This week we are to base our outfit inspiration around our favorite summer treat. Although I have many favorite summer treats, one of my most favorite things about summer is not only the treat but being able to enjoy a yummy treat(or cocktail) on a nice patio with loved ones and friends. With that said, there are few things I enjoy more than a beautiful summer evening outdoors, surrounded by good company, with a glass of sangria in hand!

Have a lovely weekend, friends!
XO

Crazy About Butterflies

I know the butterfly craze is kind of a thing of the past, but lately I cannot get enough of them. I think it may have something to do with the abundant amount of butterflies I have been admiring the past couple of weeks in our garden in the backyard. Whatever it is that is causing this minor obsession, I am currently loving...


This Butterfly Dress

 This adorable coat/purse hanger. Would be so cute in a girl's room!

And my butterfly bangle!

This very well may be a short lived obsession, and feel free to not jump on the butterfly bandwagon, however I think they make such a fun statement piece for the summertime. Something a little different and unexpected. Hope the week has gone well! Hang in there guys, just one more day until the weekend!

XO



The Classic Accessory:Pearls

As a little girl, I spent a great deal of time playing in grandma's jewelry box. I admired all of her lovely garnets, costume jewelry, and of course my grandma's gorgeous set of pearls. I loved them so much that her and my grandpa gave me an add on strand of pearls for Christmas one year. It was such a special gift, and have never forgotten about that necklace.

Although a real or faux strand of pearls may often be an overlooked accessory for most, in my opinion, they are still so classic and so effortlessly chic. They add a touch of sophistication to almost any outfit.

I hope your week is going well thus far!

XO

Wall Art

There are a couple walls in our home that could still use a splash of decor. My original thought was your typical piece of framed art. However after a little searching around, I am kind of liking the idea of numerous pieces of art, photos, mirrors etc. hung together on a wall as a wall collage.

I think it could bring a little fun and personalization to the space. I would love to add some nostalgia by including old black and white pictures of my grandparents, as well as some new images, mixed with some pretty paintings, and perhaps a little mirror. Much more interesting than one piece of art, don't you think?

XO

Tangerine Kind of Day

Oh Monday, here you are once again. I don't know what it is, but for some reason I lack a little pep in my step on Monday morning. In efforts to fix this, I usually try to throw on a fun, uplifting color when getting dressed. Today is no different. Can't get enough tangerine lately!

Dress:F21/ Shoes:Vince Camuto/ Sunnies:Michael Kors/Belt:F21

Wishing you all a wonderful week!

XO

Sunday Afternoon...

Happy Sunday! What is everyone up to? The day has been fairly uneventful for us thus far, so I am busy over here, attempting to come up with a few activity ideas for B and I to possibly do this afternoon, while finding some ideal outfit inspiration for me! Here is what I have come up with...

Throwing on a cute chambray dress and taking a visit to the local farmers market...

Grabbing a big floppy hat and have an afternoon picnic...

Finding my comfy pleated skirt and go for an afternoon cruise around the countryside...

Coffee date in a pair of loose shorts and t-shirt

And finally, a nice Sunday stroll in one of my long maxi skirts





What are you up to this afternoon? Any other suggestions? Hope the weekend is going well!

XO

Wardrobe Simplicity

There is something so refreshing about a simple basic t-shrit or tank. They are effortlessly chic when paired with a little colored short, or when tucked into a casual boyfriend jean or wide leg pant. This summer, in awe of my maxi dresses, I seem to have forgotten about my long lost favorite tees. So, today I am bringing them back with a simple black tank, and my beloved palazzos!

 Happy Wednesday, friends!

XO

Accessories For the Home and Your Wrist

Lately, I have been on a search for two pretty poufs for in front of our fireplace. I love the idea of having a couple more portable seats just in case, for when company comes. Also, one of my favorite things to do in the winter is snuggle up in front of the fireplace and having a cozy seat to sit on sounds appealing to me even in the middle of the hottest summer ever!

So my question is, do any of you know where to find two pretty poufs? I keep looking online and am having a difficult time finding the perfect duo!

On another note, take a peek at the newest Jem Bridal creation...

The "Pretty in White" JEM Bracelet
Available at The Jem Boutique soon!

Hope your week is going well!

XO

The Lake+Nautical Inspiration

I finally had my wish of a day at the lake come true this past weekend. B and I headed just a couple hours over to Michigan, to a quaint little lake town where we spent the weekend. Some highlights...

Brunch by the marina...

Soaking up some rays at the beach...

 And taking in the gorgeous view

 Now that I am back from the lake, I am finding myself in a very nautical kind of mood. Some fun nautical inspired looks on this Monday morning...

My nautical inspired striped blazer from a previous post

Have a great week!

XO