insta-lately

Fall has been unusually quick paced, with weeks and dates blurring into one another.  I have found time to do a lot of the things on my to-do list, but it is already winter and I fear that this lovely grace period of fall has come and gone! Cool (but not frigid) nights, no pressure to shop for the holidays, time to enjoy all things pumpkin, apple and cinnamon-y. I have enjoyed a lot of it, but I could always use more!

For Halloween, I was a nerd. :) Did not require much dressing up or acting! I loved it. Speaking of nerd,  I was giddy when I found this 1979-era Nikon M film camera at a yard sale. The price of this camera was unbelievably fantastic. It is the first full-frame and film camera I have ever owned and I love the risk, the calculation, and the unknown of shooting with film...the way it used to be. I wish, so badly sometimes, that I was born a little bit earlier before the digital age overtook everything. I find it exhilaratingly challenging.

Daylight savings has also been awesome. That extra hour, especially in the mornings, is quite nice to have.

okay...enough chatter! ciao, xo

insta-lately

Oh California! You are too, too beautiful. I do admit that I was actually a bit homesick at a point, missing my usual go-to places and comforts of home - but the humidity has cooled down here (I can breathe!) and I am totally in love with the beachy vibes here. Having the distant cliffs of Palos Verdes and Malibu in my peripheral vision is definitely not a bad thing. 

Days are repetitive these few weeks (I'm here with S til the beginning of August) because I am car-less. So I've been getting exercise in with my new bike Wilbury and I'm making a point to find something new everyday. Whether it's a cafe, a lunch spot, a vista or overlook, or a shortcut to somewhere else...it's good. I just posted some snapshots from my daily bike adventures, actually!  I'm pinching pennies because a) I'm trying to stay on my vegan diet track after a minor taco lapse and b) we just booked a trip to Seattle! Which I am super pumped about!!! Because I get to see some family that live in the state! It is a gorgeous place, but I don't remember much seeing as the last time I was there I was 12 years old - half my life ago! 

So, if you have recommendations on what to do/see in Seattle for a super quick getaway, I'd appreciate the suggestions kindly! Til then, more beach sunsets, watching the boats, and counting the colors I see in the water...

ciao! xo

click on any pic to follow my insta! 

did instagram change blogging?

image via 

In the last year, I’ve grown really attached to the Instagram app for managing my photos and other ‘moments’ I want to keep highly accessible. It’s very clear to see the app’s rise in other popular media - when do you not see that little rounded camera symbol? When was the last time you took a photo with your phone and not tinkered around with a fllter? I’ve noticed that with myself, I’ve grown more and more interested in using instagram as my top ‘social’ media outlet, even though it really literally only offers a snapshot into whomever we are following. Do I like that design better? Yes. It’s simpler and efficient. But with all social media, it is easier in this day and age to overshare - and visuals are what all of our eyes go to first. My big concern, however, is that instagram took some of the integrity out of blogging. Not all, but some.

I began blogging in 2010 before Instagram was a popular platform. I have always been weary about promoting my blog on social media for privacy reasons,  but all at once instagram and blogging have, in a way, become deeply intertwined. I think I’ve noticed this in a sharper way because my blog has a heavy foundation in photos. If I publish a ‘peek’ on instagram, it almost feels like I am giving away my content. Captions are another huge, yet sometimes overlooked aspect to this shift. I love ‘catching up’ with some of my favorite bloggers by reading their lengthier captions - because seriously, how lengthy can they be on Instagram - paired with one summative snapshot. I think people respond more to pictures and less so to printed text - especially paragraphs (like this!). It’s true - there are more Smartphones than there are blogs. 

In short, I think that Instagram has significantly altered the nature of blogging. Our ‘followers’ are very different from our readers; people who occasionally check up on our feeds may feel like they’ve got enough of the picture (pun intended)!

I asked some of my dear bloggy friends their opinions on this issue; I formed my own opinions before even opening their responses to this question: did instagram change blogging? I have ‘known’ these girls for years now, and am eager to share with you what they think on this, too! Here’s Candice and Jenna!

via

"Does anyone even read this thing?" I know I've asked myself the question before in regards to my blog. With the rise in social media, especially Instagram, it seems as though the days of reading photo/text heavy posts are beginning to fade. I love Instagram, and personally choose to use it for both personal and blog related content. It's a way to share inspiring and beautiful content, as well as a platform for easy interaction with one's audience. I've even had the chance to meet up with other bloggers I had discovered via Instagram. Technology can be pretty great in that respect. Has blogging changed since Instagram? I would say yes. People enjoy the convenience and brevity of the captioned image, and can easily interact with brands, products, and other people. Should it replace blogging altogether? I would hope not, as I see it co-existing with blogs as an extension of a blogger's branding and aesthetic. Besides, Instagram gives readers an inside look at the little details of one's life, which gives more personality to the voice behind the blog. Everyone wants to feel as though they connect and relate to the bloggers behind their favorite reads. There are certainly benefits to both blogs and Instagram, and in a sense each engages a different audience, obviously with definite crossover. Overall, I enjoy using Instagram, and think it is an effective tool to engage a wider range of readers, as well as a fun way to share moments from one's life.

click to see candice's blog 

via

At first, Instagram was simply a way to share photos with friends and give quick updates on life. Oh, how things have changed! Instagram has been transformed into THE place to share blog post images, beautifully styled photos, and network with fellow bloggers and creatives. With every blog post I write, I make sure to snap an Instagram worthy photo to share when the blog post goes live. I have found that I have a lot of blog traffic coming from my Instagram when I do that. I've learned that if you have a beautiful Instagram feed, people will be drawn to your blog. You have to make sure to get involved with the Instagram community, though, and participate in photo challenges, hashtags, and engaging with followers and non-followers. It's definitely my favorite social media platform!

click to see jenna's blog | instagram 

insta lately

The spring has been crazier than I'd like to say: grad school and homework, family events, and a whirlwind trip home by S has all contributed to the gloriously busy last few weeks. I have my grumpy times for sure. But I am kind of loving all of it in all its rushing, overwhelming blur.

+ grad school. I don't want to jinx myself by saying this too soon (only had my first class and no major assignments), but I loved it! I still have to get to know a lot about how my school works - I'm new! - but I just feel very at home being in the classroom and taking notes. The nights are extremely tiring, as classes don't end til about 9.

+ june gloom. I don't remember the last time I've worn a jacket in June. It has been quite chilly over the last week - 50, 60 degrees - making a light jacket/raincoat seem like a very good idea. I have this one not unlike this one from LOFT and I've gotten plenty of wear out of it in the past few days.

+ before S left, we went on a dinner date to celebrate his {early!} birthday at a new restaurant. I had sworn it off because I had heard multiple bad reviews, but we had a gift card, and I ended up leaving with my mind completely made up: I was so wrong! It was a delightful albeit pricy northern Italian place with a rustic look and feel...I am completely a convert. Can't wait to go back with S and enjoy some more wine {and acqua panna!} under the string lights...

+ My Italian Market post has been featured here and I was very excited to see my photos posted and mentioned by Talluto's!  I was also tweeted by @SoSouthPhilly about my post. It's making me want to go back to the Italian market all over again! I'm in need of more pecorino cheese...plus, I recently watched Rocky and I'm feeling all Philly tough lately (go ahead, roll your eyes).

okay, off to class! tee hee.
ciao, xo

insta-lately

The month of April has been ahhhhmazing.

I turned 25, I got to visit S again on the West Coast, had my first lavender honey ice cream of the year, visited new places (hello, DC - twice!) and spent lots of time being a foodie.  For the most part, I've been able to get out and really feel awake, rejuvenated...through running at the park or just simply running errands. I love getting back outside. The entire winter, I felt like most weekends were spent by the fire (and I loved it!) but it is veryyyy good to be in the sun and warmth outside.

A big theme for spring so far: simplicity. Eating lighter, living without excess, getting sun, sleeping well, and making choices that I feel better about (ex. cooking at home rather than eating out). I am in the midst of planning more travels for the summer, so I am thinking this simplicity kick has got to stay in order to make the plans happen. We're thinking a road trip up the West Coast!

Another idea that I've had over the past few weeks: I love being in my mid-twenties. The earlier years  were kinda chaotic - job searching, exiting college, figuring out all that stuff. I feel sooo much more mellowed out and I like it! I think it gets better every year...

ciao! xo
(ps. follow my insta!)

insta-lately

as you can see...the past few weeks have been very sweet! Valentine's Day was amazing, even though it was very low key without S. He found ways to make it the cutest Valentine's ever - roses at work, sneaking the delivery of a little blue box for Valentines' morning...sigh! He is the best. I am so excited to be visiting soon! And I think we could all use a nice warm sunny California breeze...it is SO cold here. Snow has been on the ground for several weeks now and we are all very much settled into that perpetual coziness/laziness of winter.

Some recent pick-me-ups: spring-hued tulips, homemade acai bowls (see recipe), starbucks finally rolling out flat whites, sundays (aka downton!).

ciao! xo

insta-lately

January is halfway through and the winter blues have only affected me minimally (yay - see how I 'beat' them here). I suppose it is only natural to feel a little blue during the cold months - because if not, then do we really drink in all of the vibrance of summer? It's hard to appreciate it without the winter. Days here lately have been: promising to keep fresh cut flowers in my room, breaking out my new suede boots, splurging on out-of-season berries, and keeping my handy dandy swell bottle with me both at home and at work. I love that thing! Not pictured but also happening: George Harrison tunes on repeat, warm vanilla sugar body lotion (!!!), and hot cups of spinach soup to stay warm. And the occasional heaping bowl of pasta, because I can't keep away for too long {ever.}

So excited for this three day weekend - staying up a little later on Sunday night is gonna be glorious!! What are you up to this weekend?

ciao, xo

insta-lately {christmas eve version!}

Mmmmmmeeerryyy Christmas (eve!). I am loving the festive feeling of my latest instagram posts - seeing all of the wreaths, trees, the plaid - of course it puts a smile on my face. But nothing makes me happier than being home with S! It has been the loveliest couple of days (except we are both battling nasty colds, ugh). Despite that annoyance it is just comforting to know everyone is home for Christmas. Makes me theeee happiest.

For Christmas Eve tonight we will be having an assortment of cheery hors d'oeuvres and drinks. We are expecting it to be pleasant and festive and happy as ever! I cannot wait to see everyone - I am hoping this cold calms down so that I can really enjoy the night tomorrow.

I want the next few days to be a repeat of everything above. I have a ton to cross of my december goals list, and a lot of it I have been so far neglecting (working out? wooops) and desperately need to attend to. Another big to-do is grad school - which I will be getting ready to begin very, very soon! So lots of new changes coming with the new year, I am sure. But for the immediate future, I need to cure this cold with lots of blankets, fireplace hangouts, and hot teas.

okay, everyone - wishing you a MERRY CHRISTMAS!

ciao, xo

insta-lately

Happy Monday!

I am feeling so refreshed after a busy but much needed weekend.

First thing is first...S is HOME! I am so happy. 

It has been the most FUN few days and I am really looking forward to what is next.

I guess I've forgotten how exciting this week prior to Thanksgiving is..

so many friends reunions, everyone is home, 

Starbucks red cups, unconventional work schedules, 

a (maybe too chilly) chill in the air, 

and of course the MEAL that is coming so so soon.

It is going to be amazing.

Some things I've been enjoying as of late (seen through my phone photos)...

heaping bundles of firewood and red apples,

shades of crimson everywhere,

giddiness to be with S, and of course braving the well-below average temperatures...

I cannot believe that this time next week it will be december. And then poof, 2014 is over.

Blows. my. mind.

ciao! happy monday! xo

insta-lately

What an amazing past couple weeks (if you're into the golden hues of fall like I am)! It's been gorgeous, although now that we're in November and it's freezing, it seems like the past couple of weekends were too good to be true. The tastes and smells and sights of October were so appealing to all of my senses.

Honestly - last week was a doozy. It was horribly stressful, and the work bled into the weekend. Trips to Whole Foods + fuzzy slippers + instagram distractions + milk duds leftover from Halloween + November bucket list dreaming became the perfect blend of distraction. But now this pile of papers glaring at me needs to be attended to...ugh.

Another random thought for you: last month I sort of neglected yoga. I got back into it and realized just how much I missed it! The studio itself is so enchanting and tranquil - just stepping in there calms me down.  Yoga is truly a blessing. I need to keep going. It's expensive but seriously such a source of nourishment; I've somehow not gone over the last month to any classes (except one!) and realized that can't go on any further! Some of my favorite classes are 'restorative,' which is more focused on gentle stretching and calming your body; I also love vinyasa flow which is more of a workout depending on the instructor. Gotta get back into it more routinely - I love it! Do you ever do yoga?

you can check out more instas @tmango77!
ciao, xo!

insta-lately

A busy little collection of instas, wouldn't you say? lots of colors, lots of sunsets, lots of craziness and  whimsy. So far the fall has a twinge of summer to it, and I'm not complaining...I'm talking wearing shorts with cute chunky sweaters; having ice cream for dinner; bringing the herbal garden inside via desktop terrarium; gorgeous sunsets that rival the august skies. Our late september trip to the sea has definitely prolonged this feeling, but I feel as ready as ever to embrace the chills of october and keep that little hint of summer breeze in my pocket.

I smell change - it's odd how we change right along with the seasons. Maybe that is what changes us. But I sense it, feel it, in a good way, kind of as a renewal. I feel like I am a little more confident in who I am and what I do. I'm accepting the things that do come and go. Some weeks are great, others are dull - sometimes I am very productive, some days I feel stuck. Some days everything seems possible, others it is an accomplishment just to get home for the day. Ebb and flow.

follow my instagram and along with it, my inner thoughts :) ... @tmango77

ciao! xo

insta-lately

sunny and brisk sunday drives around the city; a massive sugar rush;

loving my new fall hat!; back to school around princeton university

gearing up to head back to the coast; running less, but still trying hard...

the ultimate beauty: foggy mornings and farms; heels that are ouch! but cute;

leaves are changing and the yellows are looking so lovely.

- - -

if you've been following me on instagram i think you'd be safe saying that I've accepted fall is here

(via my photos of #psls, leaves, and autumn-y outfits).

It's been gorgeous the past few days.

Which is why I am kind of dismayed that it is raining now..

we are heading out this morning for a glorious beach weekend!

sun, come back!!

The end of september-early october is my favorite time of fall, 

where the weather is just so comfortable and you can wear jeans with flip flops still.

of course summer is my ultimate, but I have been keeping in touch with that lighter side

through yoga. and i cannot say enough about how great i feel after a class.

same thing goes for running! which, unfortunately, i have less time for - but I am up to 3 miles :)

look for a rupdate soon on that score (if ya want).

so...going to pack my bags because we are heading back to the coast...

follow along on my instagram for updates on how the weekend is going!

ciao, xo

insta-lately

{1st #PSL of the year had to be iced...come on, still a couple days of summer left!

admiring the cute ivy league residences of princeton, nj

gorgeous jewel tone water of the pacific

my first ever acai bowl}

{killer shrimp! ah-mazing.

bright white interiors are seriously inspiring - so timeless and classic

new hat! got it at nordstrom rack :)

view of point vincente light - see more of that gorgeous cliff here}

{home made latte! still have to master cream and latte art...

mama-daughter date at a new italian restaurant

palm trees of redondo beach from last month's travels

goofing off in front of the camera for a new look!}

you can follow along my insta-adventures here :) @tmango77

- - - 

if you follow me on instagram, i feel that I owe you an apology...

August I kind of went overboard...SO many pictures.

Which begs the question - how much is too much?

Like, in a day?

I am pretty sure that during my trip to california I posted up to 4x/day.

kiiiiiinda overkill.

so, my apologies. 

anyway, in retrospect, August and early September have been stunning.

The summer in general was so good, so so good. 

Weather was actually delightful, rather than oppressive;

I was able to travel...thank my lucky stars for being so blessed.

Really kicked my butt into shape with running and exercising - slow progress, but I notice it. 

so happy with these things. so happy with this life!

I am feeling so content, even with work - I am surrounded by goodness 

and feeling so grateful for it all.

AND - to top it off - today is Friday!

so I am one happy girl.

insta-lately

today's the day! catching a plane to california! WOOO!

{read up on my other travels here}

Late July-early August...I've been so thankful that you've gone by sooooo slow.

Summer has really set in. The kind of deep, relaxed state where it takes you a moment to realize what day it is.

I have been working out every single day. 

I feel great, and now look forward to in {in a weird way}. 

That has really set the tone of this relaxation and contentment I am feeling!

I always hope to transition this easy feeling into the school year.

Of course, it tends to dissolve away and the worries of work set in,

but I decided...I am not even going to trouble myself with worries yet.

Life lately has been smoothie stops, so much family quality time,

my new bag (hi Calvin!), sweet puppy licks, 

hydrangea envy (I want it to coat my house someday),

sudden rainstorms that leave the grass and trees so verdant,

time for quick sketches and of course, a latte here and there.

follow me @tmango77 (click the photos above for a link)

 to see what I am up to on the west coast!

ciao, xo 

insta-lately

Dear July, you have been lovely.

Full of glorious sunsets, sundresses,

sips of hibiscus tea, mornings on the roof top deck,

daisies and lavender, penne arrabiata (my favorite),

coffee runs and wine nights. This is what july is all about.

follow my instagram feed here @tmango77

ciao xxxxxxo!

insta-lately

{ enjoying an ice cream cone on a stroll around town; sunday morning errands means starbucks}

{the loveliest pink hydrangeas - i wanted them all; an outfit post shot from here}

{a fro-yo stop after a pretty challenging spin class; prepping for one of my final school activities}

{a summer night bonfire with s'mores; some aranciata rossa da san pellegrino ;) }

ciao! xooo

insta-lately

the month of may has been my instagramming dream for a few reasons:

1. it is basically summer.

2. that means bright colors.

3. it also means beach trips.

4. coffee and breakfast dates.

5. fresh fruit, flowers, and iced tea.

6. i am ssssoooort of tan!

7. sunsets. and they're laaaate.

and the best of all...

8. I talked S into signing up for his own account. win!

june has big shoes to fill. this list has made me insanely happy.

ciao! xo

follow my instagram @tmango77

insta-lately

Lots of instas for the month of April! It was a beautiful, busy month - my birthday, coffee dates, SO many beautiful flowers, family dinners, trips into the city, magnolia blooms, sketches and walks with Scout. All of it has been perfect and I can't begin to explain how excited I am for May...yay!

follow me at @tmango77

insta-lately

YAY! It is April!

There are crocus buds in the garden,

I think I can put away my puffy down jacket,

I come home from work and it is still light out,

anddddd, it's my birthday month!

Now mother nature needs to get it through her stubborn head

that it should be warm and sunny and appropriate dress-wearing weather.

These instagrams from life lately kind of sum it up:

girlie tea parties with vases of daffodils...

taking eveerrry possible moment to wear spring-y clothes...

latte stops at my favorite city cafe

and admiring the collections of paper at Paper Source (hello dream job).

Another thing I am starting to think about is

grad school shopping - ahhhhh. I am excited yet so unsure about what I want to do.

I want to do something unexpected and weird. I would study italian if I could.

But I really want to go to the school that has a room that looks as if it could be in Downton Abbey...

:)

happy April, everyone! ciaaaao, xo!