Here & There 5.16 (+ a little bit of life in general)

After spending last week away, I was in desperate need of some time off this week. Sure I was at work, in fact this past week and the next are sure to be two of the busiest weeks to date (I'm sure I'll end up eating my words six months from now), but after blogging all day at work, sometimes the last thing I want to do is come home and blog even more. In those moments I think the worst thing I could do is force myself to create content when it's just not there. So instead that time was taken to live life, connect with the world, relish Philly in spring, take a few long runs, and spend time with Chris. Since he started his new job a few months ago, our schedules have been a bit at odds. He often leaves for work at 4am or he'll work a late shift and get home at 11:30, so time together has been precious. Recently I've been relearning the value of making time and giving time, as opposed to just being in the presence of another person. When schedules get busy and life gets stressful (sometimes really stressful), it's so easy to just rocket ahead with your blinders on, mindlessly focusing on tomorrow and not on the years that lie ahead. It's important to lay the groundwork, to look farther ahead than tomorrow... I've needed to remind myself of that lately.

So, what else is going on? I picked up this book last weekend on my last day in Atlanta and so far am enjoying it. It felt appropriate to read having just attended Shaky Knees, and mostly I was desperate for something to occupy my mind with while I waited for my flight home. I'm planning on grabbing this one and this one next.

Zephyr acquired a Cat Tipi this week and it's pretty much the cutest thing ever. I didn't think he'd be as down with it as he is, but he loves it. Mostly, he runs and dives into it, knocking the whole thing over, but he's also been sleeping in it.

I've been cleaning out my closet a ton and am trying to decide whether to have an Instagram sale or just take everything to Buffalo Exchange. Thoughts?

Ok... a few more things I love...

How incredible is this necklace from My Vintage Spirit? I can't get enough turquoise lately.

This vintage crochet shawl is so pretty and would look amazing with a rust-colored cami and black jeans

A cute dress for spring

Definitely want to try this cruelty-free primer.

I've been obsessed with getting a white duvet cover lately - absolutely love this one

Cute (and affordable!) swimsuits for summer - love that striped one piece!

Loved this post - so cute

The perfect shoes for spring.

Absolutely love this outfit from Jen

Made me laugh

Feminist writers on Mad Men - are you watching the finale?

A space I wouldn't mind having as my own

What to wear to a wedding - this is stunning!

Instant ways to make summer better - that swan is so fun!