Monday, December 21, 2015

Cranberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies


Every year I get together with my girlfriends for an annual cookie party. We each bring all of the ingredients for a recipe, prep, bake, drink lots of wine and make a huge mess. It's a great time. (Obviously this year I was missing the wine!)

This year I made The Domestic Rebel's Cranberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies. I botched some measurements the first time around (whoops) and they still turned out yummy. I gave it another go at home and got it right. So delicious!


Prep time:  1 hour 15 mins Cook time:  10 mins Total time:  1 hour 25 mins
Serves: 24

Ingredients
¾ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup white sugar
1 Tbsp vanilla extract
1 egg
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp baking soda
Pinch salt
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the butter, brown sugar & white sugar with the paddle attachment until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla and egg to combine. Lastly, beat in the flour, cornstarch, baking soda and pinch of salt until a soft dough has formed. Stir in the cranberries and white chips by hand.
2. Refrigerate the cookie dough for AT LEAST 1 HOUR. You can chill it overnight if you'd like, but one hour chill time is mandatory to prevent cookies from spreading and to create that light, soft and chewy texture.
3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with silicone liners or mist lightly with cooking spray. Remove chilled dough from fridge and roll into Tablespoon-sized balls. Place onto the cookie sheets about 1-2" apart from one another.
4. Bake for approx. 8-10 minutes, rotating pans halfway through baking time to ensure an even cook. Cookies may appear slightly undone, but do not over-bake them! They will continue to set up more as they cool. Allow cookies to set on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes or so before carefully transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. If you'd like to make them prettier, garnish cookies with additional white chips on top of still-warm cookies before serving.

What's your go-to cookie recipe?
SHARE:

Friday, December 18, 2015

Happy Friday

via Pinterest

This is all I want to do this weekend but it's packed so don't expect much down time. We recently moved so we're still settling into the new place and also preparing to go to Colorado next week for Christmas. And we can't forget about Baby B... so much to do to plan for her arrival. I'm a little overwhelmed to say the least.

For once I did my holiday shopping ahead of time. I just have to head out to get some wrapping this weekend and I think I'm set. What did I forget!?

ASHA Lily Chain $395 $110

One last minute gift idea to share before the weekend if you're in a crunch. ASHA is offering free overnight shipping now through 12/23, 3PM EST. There are so many great items still available on sale, including the earrings I posted about yesterday. Non-sale items are 15% off with ASHA15.

I became familiar with the brand after spotting pieces in the Juliska boutique in Stamford. The founder is from Greenwich and her designs are inspired from her travels around the world. Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket are part of the Wanderlust collection. 


Wearing the Lily Chain last weekend in Essex.

Have a great weekend!
SHARE:

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Holiday Look #22weeks

Dress. ASOS (Maternity). Earrings: Asha. Shoes: Christian Louboutin. Lips: Nars Cruella

Last weekend Ted and I went to our friend's annual Christmas party. Typically it's freezing at this time of the year and I could never wear open toe shoes without tights. I hear horror stories of feet getting bigger after pregnancy.... I'm praying that doesn't happen to me. Wearing my favorite shoes while I can!



Here's a similar look with a non-maternity dress from ASOS. You can't go wrong with a LBD, especially at their price price points. (The fit can be tricky with ASOS so I typically order a few sizes just in case since it's free returns.) I ordered my ASHA earrings on Black Friday, they are still on sale. Finally, if I could add another heel to my closet it would be these. Santa?!
SHARE:

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Onesie




Do I even need to add a caption? Baby B needs the pink! (Or all 3....)

Vineyard Vines is offering free shipping with code ELF2015

And for those of you in Fairfield County...


I'm not mentally prepared for a sample sale right now! haha

SHARE:

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Lately

Me - Coat: J. Crew. Sunglasses: Ray Ban. Scarf: Gap (old - similar). Dress: ASOS (maternity). Boots: Rag & Bone. Tote: Goyard. Lipstick: Dior.

Ted - Jacket: Patagonia. Shirt: Vineyard Vines. Jeans: Gap. Boots: Clarks.

Post Thanksgiving our friends Kate and Mike came down from Boston to visit us for the weekend. Kate is getting married in April and had an appointment in the city to look at dresses. I was so honored that she asked me to join her. Real life Say Yes To The Dress!

Before the appointment we had brunch at Blue Ribbon Bakery Kitchen. (Unlike several brunch spots in the West Village, they do take reservations.) A spot I recommend. 


We are in the middle of packing up our apartment. I hoped some fresh blooms would detract from the chaos. Is anyone else missing C. Wonder? It was such a great place to shop at this time of year for gifts. I had bought the blue and white ginger jar for part of my wedding centerpiece arrangements.

The candle is Nest Birchwood Pine. My friend that is a fragrance chemist recommended it and as always she was spot on, great scent. 


For our "Friendsgiving" meal Ted made his signature dish, meatballs. I was relieved not to cook so I could focus on assembling a cheese plate, haha.  Kate made a pitstop in Boston's North End that morning for fresh pasta and Italian cookies to go along with our meal.

Now let's divert and talk about coats... 


I have wanted a navy pea coat for a few years and finally bought one this year. Of course I wish I waited until the Black Friday promotion, but at least I got a few wears first. I'm sure J. Crew will have another sale soon. It's a great time to get one, it will never go out of style. I was mad to see it on the sale racks in stores....


Another coat I love that J. Crew keeps bringing back.


And here is Kate modeling it for you.

I don't know if it's just me... but I am always wanting a new coat. I always think "This is the one!" and I will be satisfied for the season. Not so much.

That's all for now...  I'm off to Dallas for work. Ta ta!


PS - Birchbox extended their Cyber Monday promo, 25% off $35+. Good time to get Oribe hair products... it's hard to find them on sale.
SHARE:

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Shop Shop Shop

Gossip Girl

Hope you all are having a great Thanksgiving! Ted is golfing and once he is home we'll be heading to my parents house for dinner. In the meantime, I've been rounding up all the sales for you. I may or may not be going to the mall tonight... my mom and I always say we won't go but then think, why not? Then we regret it.

Sephora has some great $10 deals each year on Black Friday. You can see a preview here. Looks like the links are already live (but showing unavailable). My picks: Tarte Easy Glowing Deluxe Cheek SetClarisonic Luxe Contour Brush Head.

But let's get right to it... here's the list of sales going on.

ANTHROPOLOGIE
25% OFF EVERYTHING // SHOPTOIT
What don't I want? My top gift picks: Limited Edition Golden Monogram Mug, Capri Blue Volcano Candles


RAG & BONE
25% OFF EVERYTHING + 2 DAY SHIPPING'
The time to get a pair of booties! They are almost always excluded from Friends and Family sales at department stores. My pick: Harrow Boot


TUCKERNUCK
15% OFF EVERYTHING CODE: CYBER-15 // 20% OFF $200+ CODE: CYBER-20 // 25% OFF $500+ CODE CYBER-25
Barbour on sale.... what more do I need to say! My picks: Barbour Beadnell Wax Jacket, Asha Novella Earrings

------

AG ADRIANO GOLDSCHMIED
30% PURCHASE // CODE: AGTHIRTY
The Legging Ankle, my favorite jeans!

ANN TAYLOR
50% OFF EVERYTHING // CODE: CELEBRATE

ANN TAYLOR LOFT
50% OFF EVERYTHING // CODE: CORNY (ENDS 11/27 3AM EST)

ASOS
30% OFF EVERYTHING // BLESSED
ATTENTION MOMS-TO BE: I've been checking their maternity section non-stop for new arrivals. I have this basic grey t-shirt dress for everyday (great to layer under a long cardigan) and this off the shoulder dress for the holidays. For sizing, I am typically an XS/2 and go with size 4. 

GAP
50% OFF EVERYTHING // CODE: BLKFRIDAY

J. CREW
30% OFF FULL PRICE, 40% OFF SALE // CODE: HOLIDAY

MADEWELL
25% OFF // CODE: CALMDOWN

REBECCA MINKOFF
25% OFF + FREE SHIPPING

SAM EDELMAN
30% OFF // SAMGIVING

SHOPBOP
15% OFF $250+, 20% OFF $500+, 25% $1,000+ // CODE: GOBIG15

TORY BURCH
30% OFF PURCHASE OF $250+ // CODE: THANKS

Happy Shopping!
SHARE:

Monday, November 23, 2015

Tailgate Gender Reveal: It's a ....


This weekend Ted and I traveled to Bethlehem for my alma mater's rivalry football game, Lehigh vs. Lafayette. In case you're new here, I went to Lehigh, the better school. I've been back for this game just about every year since I graduated. And when I say for the game.... I mean tailgate. I am usually the only one of my friends that actually buys tickets... this year I didn't even step foot into the stadium. 

We had our anatomy ultrasound on Friday morning and finally found out the gender. It seems like I was waiting FOREVER! I could barely go to sleep the night before because I was so anxious to find out. I decided earlier in the week it would be fun to do a gender reveal with my college girlfriends since we would all be together. Thankfully my mom was onboard to make my favorite Funfetti cupcakes once she heard the news on Friday morning. She had both pink and blue frosting ready to go for the injector.

I almost slipped a few times that morning and it didn't help that some of my friends were trying to trick me. My favorite try from a friend's husband: "Lindsay, nice Barbour jacket. Are you going to get one for your little guy?"


Amanda outfitted Roxy in Lehigh gear.


Pick your guess!


Counting down as the guys look on...


Go!



Pink frosting!

Scarf: Zara (similar on Etsy - try searching tartan blanket scarf)

I asked Ted right before the ultrasound tech entered the room for his final guess. He had been saying girl all along unconvincingly... but finally told me he actually thought boy. I said boy for sure. When the tech said "I can tell you it's a girl" right away at the beginning of the appointment our mouths dropped! When the doctor came in to review the scan with us I asked again to make sure, specifically that nothing was going to pop out and surprise us, and she said for certain it was a girl.

Either way I would be happy and pray for a healthy baby. I am absolutely thrilled to be this little girl's mommy! Ted foresees the LPGA in her future.

Sugar, spice and everything nice. I'm 20 weeks along today... halfway there to meeting baby girl!

SHARE:

Thursday, November 19, 2015

Pregnancy Skincare



Since planning my pregnancy I've made it my mission to be more conscious of what I'm putting on my skin. It's not the first time I'm visiting this topic or sharing my favorite paraben-free products. Regardless if you are expecting, these are products to check out!

I wish I could say my skin was in perfect glowing condition... but it wasn't pre-pregnancy so I definitely don't expect it to be now. I go through phases. However, investing in quality products and treating myself to a facial now and then seems to be keeping things in check. Eating healthy and drinking lots of water are just as important.

Now onto the goods. Back in the spring a friend gave me a bunch of Beautycounter samples to try and I decided that once I was finished with some of my other products I would order. I splurged on the Countertime Collection and have been very happy the past few months. I'm not a consultant but thinking about becoming one since I'm an advocate for their toxin-free stance on skincare (not to mention the packaging is on point).

Another line I would recommend trying out is Tata Harper. Her products smell great and I've loved every sample I've tried to date.

Face
Avene Eau Thermal Spring Water - I've been hooked on this since my trip to Paris last fall. After I wash my face I spritz this on and wipe any excess off with a cotton swab.
Beautycounter Countertime Soothing Face Wash - Typically my morning cleanser. (Note: This cleanser was discontinued... I have linked to the next best thing that I am currently using.)
Avene Cleanance Gel Soapless Cleanser - Typically my evening cleanser. I like to switch it up! (Thanks to Courtney at Refined Fashion for the tip on this one - see more of her suggestions here.)
Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask - Most of the masks that I used prior to my pregnancy have active ingredients that aren't safe to use now. I was excited to try this natural one and love the way my skin feels after. Splurgeworthy.
Clarisonic - A skincare must have. I'll be honest I don't use mine as often as I should.... but it's key for exfoliation and getting the most out of your serums and lotions!
Beautycounter Countertime Uplifting Day Cream - One of my favorite Beautycounter products.
Beautycounter Countertime Radiance Firming Complex - I use this after I cleanse and before my moisturizer both day and night (a step I admit I sometimes skip.... depends on my mood).
Beautycounter Countertime Restorative Night Cream - Since I occasionally use some topical gels that dry out my skin its crucial I use a nightly moisturizer so my skin doesn't dry out.
Beautycounter Vibrant Eye Perfector - Don't forget about those peepers!

Body
Bio-Oil - I occasionally used body oils before I was pregnant but quickly got into the routine once I found out I was expecting. It's not necessary right away but it takes me time to form a new habit. Better sooner than later.
Mustela Stretch Marks Double Action - I haven't tried this yet but let's hope it works. The reviews are great.
Lavanila The Healthy Deodorant - I have tried a few natural deodorants over the years and this has been my favorite (Vanilla Lemon scent). I still use an antiperspirant before working out.
Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula - Since I go through body lotion quickly I wanted to find a drugstore brand that was paraben free.... warning you will smell like a cupcake but I have only gotten compliments on it. I noticed my supply was depleting quickly and turns out Ted has been using it too! I also have a jar of their tummy butter that I use in place of oil sometimes.

In additional to the list above, there are still some topical gels prescribed by my dermatologist that I use during any breakouts. Unfortunately I don't think they are that effective. (I don't know if still using these makes me a hypocrite like RHOBH Shannon? She flip flops on her natural stance all the time.) I consulted with my doctor about what products I needed to ditch while pregnant/breastfeeding - benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and retinoids are no-nos!



What are your favorite natural products?


SHARE:

Monday, November 16, 2015

Weekend Wear


My weekend day uniform has been leggings, a loose t-shirt, Patagonia's Better Sweater Jacket and these Nikes. I could say I just want to be comfortable while I am pregnant (today marks week 19).... but even if I wasn't I'd still be living in this look while I am running errands. I had been searching for a casual Nike without a bright white sole and a friend suggested I try these. They are so comfortable and I love the knit design.

The black Ray Bans were on my wish list for a long time. They are versatile and never go out of style. I finally got them during a recent friends and family sale.

Finally, the Spiritual Gangster gear and bkr water bottle are things I have somehow managed to avoid purchasing on my way in and out of the gym. Santa, take note.
SHARE:

Friday, November 13, 2015

Loveknot Links


Isn't this arrangement gorgeous? I've never hosted Thanksgiving, but someday when I take that on I envision this centerpiece on my table. It will detract from any recipes gone wrong.

- - -

Unbelievably I have only purchased one thing for Baby B so far... this grey and white striped Solly Baby Wrap as seen on Pink Peonies. In a week I'll know whether to go pink or blue!

Sephora's VIB sale starts today... I placed my order first thing this morning. I posted my picks yesterday in case you missed it.

These heels.

Town & Country 1-year subscription for just $5 directly from the publisher here. That's less than the price of one at cover price. If I had to pick one print magazine it would be this one and it makes a great gift. Amazon is also offering $5 rates for some titles.

Already dreading winter? Ted found this article and we've made a pact to make the most of the season and complain less. We'll see how that goes...

20% off home items at Anthroplogie this weekend (code GUESTPREP). My picks: Limited Edition Monogram Mug, Capri Blue Volcano candles, Hobnail Pitcher, Ruffled Rim plates and bowls.

Have a great weekend!

SHARE:

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Sephora VIB

It's almost here... the Sephora VIB sale starts tomorrow. So if you've been shopping all year and reached VIB status you can finally get that 20% discount.

Here's a snapshot of my favorite everyday products from Sephora. I'm running low on a few, it's time to restock. If you've been reading for awhile you've likely seen me post about them before. I'm set in my ways.

Benefit Boi-Ing Full Coverage Concealer - I've been using this for years... nothing beats the coverage. I use this over my foundation under my eyes. Since it's thick make sure to blend well.
Nars Blush in Orgasm - Cult favorite.
Benefit Hoola Bronzer - A matte bronzer that is great for contouring.
Buxon Full-On Lip Cream - This pinkish nude (no shimmer) lip gloss is my favorite for everyday.
Bobbi Brown Eye Shadow in Bone - My base shadow.
Anastasia Perfect Brow Pencil in Soft Brown - I alternate between this pencil and the Anastasia Dipbrow Pomade. The pencil is faster for me to use especially when I'm in a rush to get ready.
Too Faced Shadow Insurance - I always regret when I skip eyeshadow primer and it disappears by noon. Another favorite of mine is blinc Life Proof Eye Shadow Primer. I alternate between the two.


See, I told you that base shadow was the first to go. I was taking inventory to see what products were almost empty. (I can't recommend a clear makeup organizer enough, less products go to waste because I know what I have. Sephora offers this one. I bought mine on Amazon.)


Since everyday makeup can get a little boring... I bought these Dior Addict Lipsticks in Power (red) and Riviera (red-orange) recently for weekend wear. Riviera is perfect for some punch during the day without looking overdone. I knew that the sale was coming but couldn't hold out.

Finally, whether you're a VIB member or not, there are some great value gift sets. Here are some of my top holiday picks.


Happy Shopping!

SHARE:

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Holiday Gift Guide: Victoria's Secret


It's the most wonderful time of the year... let the gift guides commence. The Victoria's Secret holiday catalog was one of the first to hit my mailbox. VS is one of my favorite places to buy gifts for friends... and myself.

If you are traveling around the holidays be on the lookout for their stores in the airport (JFK terminal 4) - they have a different selection of cosmetic cases and travel accessories. 

Naughty or nice?
SHARE:

Monday, November 2, 2015

Boo! Baby On The Way

Shirt worn as dress: Amazon (wearing a medium). Boots: Stuart Weitzman.

I'm excited to share the news that Ted and I are expecting! "Baby B" is due in April. I can't even put into words my excitement to become a mommy.

Thanks to my Instagram friends for their sweet comments after we posted the picture! I wasn't exactly planning a skeleton themed social media reveal... instead I was going to avoid any pics of my stomach until Thanksgiving and have a bump reveal closer to the holiday. I bought my shirt on Amazon (that ended up fitting like a dress) last minute to wear to work on Friday and decided to get something coordinating for Ted to wear to a party in the city Saturday. It was much more comfortable than squeezing into my German beer maid getup.

I am 17 weeks along today. I was extremely exhausted during my first trimester but my energy levels have started to climb back up recently.  Thankfully I didn't suffer from any morning sickness. I was prepared with saltines and ginger candy but it never hit. If I don't eat breakfast within an hour of waking up I start to feel queasy but that has been easily avoided. As for cravings nothing new, bring on the (pasteurized) cheese. Overall, I'm feeling good! 

My workout routine has been the biggest change so far during my pregnancy. I really miss taking cardio classes that rev up my heart rate. Instead I have been going to barre class and supplementing with walking on the treadmill or using the elliptical. I recently started a prenatal yoga series and love that I'm not the only one in the class modifying moves. I've cut back on the number of days I workout but have set some new goals to keep me moving.

We'll find out the gender at our next appointment, it can't come soon enough. I have a feeling it's a boy.... Ted thinks it's a girl but I catch him saying "he" and "him" every so often. Either way, we are thrilled and feeling blessed!

More Baby B updates to come!
SHARE:

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Monday, October 19, 2015

Bishop's Orchards


You know you live in Connecticut when.... you go apple picking! I hate to admit that I had never been before this past weekend, especially since it's such a quintessential New England thing to do and fall is my favorite season.

My friends and I headed up to Bishop's Orchard in Guilford. Plaid attire required. It was a bit of a trek but well worth it to avoid a crowd. I've heard that some of our local orchards get pretty packed and I wasn't up for that scene.

We had a great time and I'm sure it will become a tradition. One of the highlights of the day was taking a paparazzi-style photo of a couple getting engaged through the trees. She was completely shocked so her "Are you &*$% kidding me?!" reaction got our group's attention. I was happy to catch the moment for them. After filling our large bag with apples and pears we made a stop at the orchard's Farm Market before heading home for apple cider and donuts. I was a little peeved that they were out of hot apple cider.... so ended up stopping at Starbucks for my fix haha.






Jacket: Barbour (also available here, here). Fleece: Patagonia. Sweater: Forever 21 (similar here, here). Scarf: Forever 21. Jeans: AG. Boots: Hunter. Sunglasses: Ray Ban. 

Ted's Jacket: Patagonia. // Ali's Sweater: Goodnight Macaroon. Sunglasses: Tom Ford.

SHARE:

Thursday, September 24, 2015

Martha's Vineyard Travel Guide - Now Live!

Illustration by Lindsay Lorente for vineyardloveknots.com


Finally, my Martha's Vineyard Travel Guide is live! I have been providing these tips to friends and colleagues over the years and realized it should have a home here on Vineyard Loveknots. I hope that it will come in handy for your future trip to the island. I'll be continuously updating it with my recommendations and I'm happy to answer any questions.

What to wear for a September weekend on the Vineyard? My friend and talented fashion designer Lindsay Lorente lent her hand to illustrate the perfect outfit for my guide. See more and get the details on her site, Fashion Freehand. (I want that Bec & Bridge dress!)

Check out the guide here
For my readers that visit the Vineyard, I would love to hear your feedback and favorite places.
SHARE:

Monday, September 21, 2015

Just add PSL


I know, this outfit is missing a pumpkin spice latte. And aviators. Otherwise, I believe I have the "basics" covered. The booties are interchangeable with riding boots (loving these).

I'm finding that everything I want to buy for fall looks like a better version of something I already own. At least I know it works and Ted won't question if it's new and how much, haha. Time for a bootie upgrade! I'm patiently waiting for some Friends & Family sales.


Exhibit A: Fall 2014 Patriots Game. 

Exhibit B: Fall 2013 Sunday Funday.

Another year, another pair of ripped jeans. I have managed to destroy a couple by putting my foot through the thigh or knee hole. I swear I try to be careful! I'm partial to AG but am open to exploring some reinforced options to prevent another accident. Suggestions welcome.



Before I sign off, I want to share one of my new fall items. I had never heard of Rails until Gisele wore one of their plaid shirts to the Superbowl and sent New England fan girls into a tizzy. This classic plaid will look great under that green military jacket, ladies! Get your hands on it for  50% off. 

I have yet to have my first PSL. Anyone out there beat me to it?
SHARE:
Blog Design Created by pipdig