Tomorrow is August 1st. This means two things:

1. The Iowa State Fair

2.  Tax free weekend

I’m a simple woman.

July consisted of a vacation, a baby shower, trying new shampoo and conditioner, a night out, and me trying to work out my unrealistic expectations of myself. What did your July look like?

My family and I traveled to Branson, MO and stayed a week at Stormy Point Village. The weather was fantastic and we spent most of our time in the pool. Which could not have been any more perfect for me. In between our pool time we went to Dixie’s Stampede and did a tour on the Duck Boats. Yes, the Duck Boats. If you have watched any news lately you are aware of the tragedy that took place in Branson this month. We rode those same Duck Boats on that lake. It’s heartbreaking. Those people have been on my mind and in my heart a lot lately. Just a reminder that tomorrow is not promised. Overall, the vacation was a success and taking a week off from work was fantastic.

Next, two of my dear friends and co-workers are welcoming babes into the world. YAY!! So my office mate and I planned a “weather themed” baby shower. It was so much fun!!  I think I missed my calling in party planning. #justsayin  We ordered some awesome cakes and cookies, bought balloons, made clouds with rain, and had lemonade with lemons and colored straws!! The Mama’s to Be received some great gifts and I think they felt loved. Mission Accomplished.

I’m so weird about shampoo and conditioner. (I’m actually weird in general). When it comes to shampoo and conditioner I like to change it up a lot. I saw this ad on Facebook for Function of Beauty. It’s a company based in New York that makes specialized shampoo and conditioner based off of a hair profile and goals that you pick. So for example, my hair is curly and coarse. My hair goals are anti-frizz, hydrate, shine, curl definition, and color protection. I have been using it for about two weeks and I’m really enjoying it. It’s also fairly inexpensive which is nice if you just want to try it out. This is just my experience–not an advertisement. If you are interested in checking it out here is the website: https://www.functionofbeauty.com/

I spent last Saturday with my favorite gal pals. We have known each other for 27 years! We met in the first grade! They are such brilliant, strong, fun, lovely ladies, and I am so blessed to be in their tribe. We spent the night getting pedicures, eating at LUCCA, and drinking wine at a self-serve wine bar, Della Viti, in the East Village. Cheers! If you haven’t been out with your friends do yourself a favor and make plans to do it. It’s good for the soul.

As you can see July has been filled with some fun things but it’s also been filled with my anxiety. Having this blog has meant so much to me but it is also a source of anxiety. Similar to social media, I measure myself and worth through it. Not good, I know.  I have unrealistic expectations of what I am actually able to do when it comes to this blog. The term “Dream Big” is not lost on me. I just want to be successful at something I enjoy. However, this requires me putting myself out there a little bit and that’s terrifying. I’m hoping I can gain some confidence and get something going in a direction that feels productive and dream worthy. #anxietyisabitch #talkaboutit

Pink Thoughts and Espresso Shots xoxo

Disclaimer: This blog post is based on my thoughts, opinions, and experiences. This post is not an advertisement. I am not receiving any financial kickback. Just me sharing my life with you.

Hello Everyone!! I thought I would do a quick Mother’s Day post since the holiday is literally right around the corner. Better late than never right?? That is life for me lately. Do you have your mother’s day gift purchased and ready to go? If you do then props to you.  If not then I have some local gift options rounded up below.

1. My first suggestion is to make a stop at Tweedle Dees in Uptown Ankeny. They have so many cute things and a lot of them are made by local businesses!! One of my favorite local businesses that has items there is Lakeside Lettering Co. Lakeside Lettering Co. also has an Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/Lakesidelettering . If you are looking for something unique and want to support a local business (or two) then check out Tweedledees! http://tweedledeedee.wixsite.com/tweedledees/contact
2. Next on the list is Antheia Flower Galleria located in the East Village downtown Des Moines. First off, the owner is just the kindest soul on the planet. Next, they have the most gorgeous flower arrangements. They also have some Lakeside Lettering Co signs in their shop! Flowers are honestly one of my favorite gifts!! https://theflowergalleria.com/
3. Does your Mom like cupcakes?? Who doesn’t right? Scratch Cupcakery in West Des Moines is the best place for sweet treats that also make great gifts! My husband and daughter brought me Scratch cupcakes at work this year for my birthday. It was epic! Sometimes enjoying a cupcake is all you need in life. #cupcakelife  http://www.scratchcupcakery.com/
4. If you have been following me you know that I am a big supporter of Iowa Wineries. We have some of the best!! In one of my very first blog post’s I talked about some of my favorite wineries. Sharing a bottle of wine with your mom (if you are of age-of course) is the best. So get a bottle of wine (or two) from any following: http://www.summersetwine.com/ https://www.madisoncountywinery.com/         http://jasperwinery.com/ http://www.firesidewinery.com/
5. Anyone have a Mama who loves jewelry?? If you want to get your mother something gorgeous, unique, and timeless then check out Leona Ruby. They are located in the East Village in downtown Des Moines. I purchased some lightweight leather earrings last year and I love them. This shop is so chic you won’t ever want to leave. Browse here- https://www.leonaruby
6. Lastly, the Hubs and I just went to East Village Spa last week for a couples massage. #needtodothatmoreoften Let me tell you a couple things. First, the employees are so friendly and kind. Second, the environment is so calm and relaxing which is such a huge thing in my book. Third, we had the best massages. I promise you that your mother will be well taken care of and enjoy every second there!! #getheragiftcard http://www.evdayspa.com/

I hope these ideas are helpful to those of you who haven’t picked up a gift for Mother’s Day. Des Moines has a lot of great local places to shop so know these are only a few I’ve had personal experience with. Happy Shopping!! And of course- Happy Mother’s Day to all the beautiful Mamas out there!!!

Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots xoxo

Disclaimer- This blog post is based solely on this writers opinions and personal experience. This writer is not affiliated with any of the above businesses nor am I receiving any financial compensation for this post.

First off, the weather in Iowa has been a hot mess this past week. Thunderstorms, tornadic activity, and snow. I mean for the love of it all.. enough already. I think we might finally be turning the corner but I won’t hold my breath. #pleasesendspring

Moving On

Do you guys follow a lot of bloggers? For me its been a relatively new thing within the last two years. I found some of my favorite bloggers on Instagram and Facebook. I am always impressed by their ideas, pictures, and writing abilities. I always feel inspired by them. Here are some of my favorites:

1. http://www.ninacecilia.com/
2. http://simplydarlings.com/
3. http://livinginyellow.com/
4. http://www.pointed-north.com/
5. http://www.onelittlemomma.com/
6. http://casuallyjules.com/
7. https://hprallandco.com/
8. https://clothedingraceblog.wordpress.com/
9. https://metanoiainacup.com/

Check these ladies out if you get a chance!! I love them all!!

I’ve noticed that some of my favorite blog posts are the personal ones. The ones that let readers, like myself, find out more about the blogger they enjoy following. I realized I had been blogging for about a year and have not done a personal blog post. So, I thought I would tell you a little bit about myself.

So here goes:

1. My name is Katherine. I rarely use my name on my blog or social media. So there you go:)
2. I’ve been married to my husband, Ryan, for 5 years. We have one daughter, Ella Frances, who is 3 years old (going on 18). My husband is my best friends cousin(small world)! I knew him growing up and we went to the same high school, but dated other people. Around 2009, we connected on Facebook and started chatting. He lived in Chicago so it was long distance relationship until he moved to Des Moines in 2010. We dated and then got married in 2012.
3. I was born and raised in Iowa. I love to travel but couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. That is partially why I started this blog to showcase Iowa and my pride in my home state.
4. I’m the baby of my family having only one big brother.
5. I have a dog named Rufus. My husband and I got him when we were still dating. Rufus was my first pet and my first baby. He is a “teddy bear” being half Shih-Tzu half Bichon.
6. I’m a social worker, by profession. I’ve worked in the social work field for about 13 years and am working on getting my LISW (Independent Licensure). I started Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots a year ago as a hobby and creative outlet. I’m hoping I can advance in the blogging world but for now it’s just a side dish;)
7. I love rap music. If I am running on the treadmill I am probably listening to Drake, Kendrick Lamar, or Fetty Wap. However, I love all types of music. I am going to a Justin Timberlake concert in December and I am so jazzed about it! #bucketlistconcert
8. I am the daughter, sister, and wife of a police officer. Needless to say we are a “thin blue line family.”
9. I love espresso. I love it so much I incorporated it into my blog name. I’ve said this once before but there is something so comforting about a warm cup of coffee. It makes me feel like I can take on the world. Let’s be real, it’s really my toddler I’m taking on. Same difference.
10. I have run two Half-Marathons. One was in San-Francisco (holy hills) and the other was in Des Moines. I’m really proud of those accomplishments as it was a challenge for me. I’m always in awe of the folks who run full marathons!! Amazing.

I hope you all enjoyed getting to know a little bit more about me!! I appreciate everyone’s support for Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots!!!!

 

Greetings Everyone!!

Over the last several months I have bought, subscribed, and been gifted some really great products. So, I wanted to share three of them with all of you!! Sometimes, it’s nice to have a review from a person who has no endorsement ties.  Plus, some of you have asked me to keep you informed on my experience. So here goes!!

Felix Gray Glasses

I came across this company on accident when I was scrolling through Instagram. I was intrigued by the idea of a glasses that could filter harmful blue light from computers, phones, and tablets. Disclaimer: I do not currently have prescription glasses so for me these are just for filtering the blue light (you can get them with a reading prescription if you need).

I have a job that requires a decent amount of “screen time”coupled with working on the blog and looking at my phone throughout the day. All said and done I’m spending a lot of time staring at a digital screen. Felix Gray glasses help to alleviate digital eye strain by filtering the blue light rays from our electronics. Have you ever had digital eye strain? Would you know if you did? Digital eye strain can cause headaches, blurry vision, dry eyes, and overall eye fatigue. I checked all those boxes, except for blurry vision.

I received these glasses as a gift from my parents around Christmas time. I was so thrilled because I really wanted to try them out but was hesitant about the almost $100 price tag. I have the NASH design in the color Whiskey Tortoise. I love the way they look. They are the perfect size for my face and stay on the bridge of my nose without falling. At last check, this style and color are sold out but there are several other options!

When I started using them it took me about two weeks to adjust to wearing glasses. If you already wear glasses then this won’t be an issue. I have worn them daily for the past 3 months and they have made a big difference as far as my dry eyes, headaches, and getting better rest at night. In my opinion, they are totally worth the $100 investment. I know there are other less expensive versions of blue light filtering glasses but I believe this is a quality company that has done a lot of research and product testing. Also, I had a great experience with their shipping so if you read some negative reviews about that don’t be scared away!! I had no issues!!

Check them out here
https://shopfelixgray.com/

Commit 30 Planner

The New Year brings about resolutions, goals, and the need for a new planner!! Am I right?? I have always loved having a planner as it helps me remember appointments, birthdays, my husbands work schedule, and anything else I might forget (which is everything). So this year I went on a search for a new planner and came across the Commit 30 Planner.

There are a lot of options when it comes to this planner including cover color, weekly or daily pages, and STICKERS!! I chose the pink cover, weekly option, and of course all the stickers. The thing I love about this planner is that it doesn’t  just keep you organized. It is also a goal crushing machine. It has pages at the beginning of every month where you commit to doing something for 30 days (or the length of the month). So for example, maybe you want to work out 3x a week, or save $300 dollars, or drink more water?? Sky is the limit. You be the judge. You can use this planner as a vision board to keep you on track to reaching those small goals (or big goals). These commit pages have numbered out 30 days, give you a spot to put down action steps, and a reward if you meet your goal.

I will be honest that my goals for January and February were not successful. Am I upset about it?? Nope. Because even though I did not meet my goals I worked toward them and I am so much closer to achieving them. Some things take time. And I am learning that is ok.

I would definitely recommend this planner to anyone and have enjoyed using it over this past two months and look forward to the next 10 and the goals I will work on and maybe even achieve!!

Link to website: http://commit30.com/

Magazine Subscription to Real Simple

Do you currently receive any magazines in the mail? Getting a magazine in the mail every month is similar to getting a package (in my opinion). It is something fun and enjoyable and not a BILL!!!  I haven’t had a magazine subscription in quite some time but recently my godson was selling magazine subscriptions so I wanted to give Real Simple a whirl. I have received 3 months worth of this magazine and I really enjoy it. It also gives me something to do besides scrolling through Instagram or Facebook which sometimes feels like a time suck with no positive result. The titles of the last three magazines have been the following: More Calm, Less Clutter; Best Ways to Be Healthy; and Fresh Ways to Relax. Now who isn’t interested in one of those topics?

I have some favorite parts to this magazine and I want to share them with you. I like the “Your Words” section at the beginning of magazine. They ask a question like “What is your go-to-small-talk topic” and then people share their responses. It makes me feel like I’m sitting in a big group of women talking over a glass of wine. It also gives me tips!! And who doesn’t need life tips?

This magazine has recipes, product tips, articles, and beautiful photos!! If you are looking for a magazine that will add to your lifestyle or just something to flip through while drinking a cup of coffee then this is the magazine.

Also, this would make an excellent gift for anyone. It’s a gift that keeps on giving.

Subscription info here:
https://subscription.realsimple.com/storefront/subscribe-to-real-simple/site/sm-bundlenojet1117-tpl.html?utm_medium=paid&utm_source=google.com&utm_campaign=cmr-realsimple&link=1018274&fpa_oc=SM+SEM+Bundle+2018

To sum it up, I loved all of these products. I wanted to share them so someone else could enjoy, use, and benefit from them. I hope this was an informative and interesting read!

As always, thank you for taking the time to indulge in one girl’s dream of being a blogger.

Love,

Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots

Disclaimer: All opinions are my own and I am receiving no financial kickback from any of the above products or companies. I am in no way affiliated with them and this blog is based on my own experience and opinions.

Valentines Day is my favorite holiday!

Bring on heart-shaped everything!

I know, I know so cliche.

Honestly, I love the hearts, pink & red, crafts, decor, and of course letting the people in your life know they are loved.

Don’t judge people…this is me.

So, I thought I would share some gift ideas and some sweet gestures if you are watching your pennies.

Gift Ideas

For Her

This $12 jeweled cuff from Target is gorgeous!! It will add the right amount of sparkle to any Valentines.

https://www.target.com/p/cuff-with-linear-stone-and-flower-cluster-bracelet-a-new-day-153/-/A-52921072

These Converse are perfect for the upcoming spring/summer. The silver polka-dot detail makes them a showstopper. And at $55 dollars they wont’t hurt your bank account.

http://shopstyle.it/l/v2Qz

These Fossil Kinley Crossbody’s have so much character and high quality detailing. I’m partial to pink but if that’s not for you the black stripped is a great option.

http://shopstyle.it/l/v2Tv

http://shopstyle.it/l/v2TH

This Kate Spade pull & stopper would be a great gift paired with a favorite bottle of wine and some cheese!! That’s romance people.

http://shopstyle.it/l/v2W7

So true…and it’s Jumbo sized!!! Mama means business.

https://www.target.com/p/clay-art-jumbo-mug-27oz-porcelain-mama-needs-some-coffee/-/A-51094000

This roll-up jewelry organizer would be perfect to throw in a weekend bag!!

https://www.target.com/p/women-s-jewelry-roll-with-interior-jewelry-organizer-a-new-day-153-bright-red/-/A-52627809

For Him

If you are on the fence about the vest trend I think this vest will win you over. At $99, this North Face vest comes in two colors and would be a simple classic upgrade to your man’s wardrobe.

http://shopstyle.it/l/wbWn

Does your boyfriend, significant other, husband , etc. repeatedly misplace their keys, wallet, or phone? This is my answer: Tile. Check out the details in the link below.

https://www.target.com/p/tile-mate-item-tracker-1-pack/-/A-51577776

These Under Amour quarter zip ups are the comfy, causal, and stylish. My husband owns a couple, so I can verify this first hand.

http://shopstyle.it/l/wfAq

This Natural Sheepskin (real leather) toiletry bag is a perfect gift for a guy who travels!! No more buying a new bag every year. This one is made to last!! Check out their Etsy shop if you get a chance!!

http://shopstyle.it/l/wqRn

This MVMT watch is a showstopper.

http://shopstyle.it/l/wqSX

Sweet Gestures

1. One Valentines Day I wrote little love notes on post it’s and placed them in the shape of a heart on the bathroom mirror. I found the idea on Pinterest and it was simple and meaningful.

2. If you haven’t noticed I love to bake. If your family or significant other has a favorite dessert or a sweet tooth make them something special for Valentines. I made a heart designed strawberry pie one year and it was a crowd pleaser.

3. This last one is pretty simple. Do something that your significant other wants to do. So if they want to watch Netflix, go to Target, or get a pizza, do it. Sometimes we get caught up with what we want to do and we dismiss the likes of our significant other. I’m guilty of it. It’s a sweet gesture that can speak volumes.

Happy Valentines Day!!! Enjoy your time with the ones you love!!

Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots xoxo

Disclaimer : All product choices are my own. They are affiliate links and this writer will receive a small percentage of compensation for clicks and products purchased using links.

Hello Everyone!!

It’s been a minute since my last blog post and it feels good to be back for my first post of 2018! I’ve been spending some time working on a vision board and thinking about my personal goals for the year. I’ve never done a vision board so it’s been fun! I’m hopeful it will keep me motivated. Do you do anything like this with the start of a new year, month, week, or day? I’m always looking for new and different ideas.

While working on my vision board, I started thinking about what makes me genuinely happy. My thought process being that I need to incorporate that into my everyday- if possible. Some days that’s no easy task. While everyone wishes their life was the way it looks on social media we know that’s not reality. Life is tough, messy, and it will break your heart. But, for all the dark there is most definitely a lot of light. And that’s what I wanted to highlight for myself and encourage you all to do as well.

So Here Goes:

Five Things That Make Me Smile

My daughter, Ella– This sweet, independent, beauty is my greatest achievement. Even on my worst day she brings a smile to my face.

Coffee-This should not come as a surprise. Hence, the name of my blog. There is something so magical about holding a cup of coffee. It’s like a security blanket for an adult. Anyone else?

Quotes-The written word is so powerful. I have several quotes that not only make me smile but provide me with inspiration. The following is one of my favorites:

Beaches-Nothing makes me as happy as water, sand, and sunshine. Instant mood boost. I always say every vacation should include a beach ( or a pool). What is your vacation must have?

Dessert Making– I’m sure you have noticed the recipes I share are usually desserts. I love making desserts. There is something so therapeutic (for me) about baking/dessert making. Plus, I get to enjoy a dessert so it’s a win/win. My latest dessert was from a recipe I found on Facebook. Here is the link: https://www.wineandglue.com/cheesecake-cake-batter-dip.html

What are some things that make you smile?

If you need a pick me up give this a try. It was heart warming for me.

Love,

Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots

Happiest Greetings to you and yours! I hope this post finds you enjoying the holidays and getting some rest and relaxation before the New Year. 🎉🥂I am pondering my resolutions but I’ll save (or spare) you that until my next blog post. So getting back to the task at hand: Espresso Sauce Cream Puffs.

If you have been following my little blog this December you know that I am doing one photo a day for the month of December. #decemberphotochallenge During this challenge, I came across a recipe in HyVee Seasons Magazine for Espresso Sauce Cream Puffs. They looked so dreamy and delicious and involved espresso! I decided to make them before the month was over and put them up on the blog. Reminder, I am not a pastry chef and this is a judgement free zone.

Sooo, I gave it a try (better late than never) and things did not go as planned. I’m not totally sure what went wrong but my puffs had no puff. Lol. They ended up looking more like little pancakes. So I did what any mama would do. I worked with what I had and made my husband the taste tester. And…he loved them!! So the flop in presentation did not affect the overall taste. The final product:

This recipe was fairly easy to follow and the ingredients are such that you could use them for other recipes. That is a win/win in my book. So even though my puff looks like a taco you should give this recipe a try. It truly is dreamy and delicious! The link below ⬇️ will take you to the HyVee Seasons Magazine website and this recipe.

https://www.hy-vee.com/recipes-ideas/recipes/espresso-sauce-cream-puffs

Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots 💕

Disclaimer: This blog post contains my thoughts and experiences. I am in no way endorsing HyVee and am not receiving any financial compensation. I simply wanted to share this with my followers.

There are times that I stand in front of my closet and say out loud, “I have nothing to wear.” Sometimes I think if I stand there long enough my clothes will change. Spoiler Alert-they never do. Am I the only one this happens to?? I have a love/hate relationship with clothing. What is in style one day is out the next. However, if you wait long enough it will come back in style. It’s nuts. For example, today I wore a sweater I bought at Old Navy 10 years ago!! I had so many compliments on it because chunky sweaters are back in style. I will admit this sweater is very basic which is probably why it was able to stand the test of time. While statement pieces are the “fun times” of a wardrobe the basics are the “9-5” that get you through “clothing life”. Sometimes basic’s aren’t as fun to buy but you should try to acquire some basic pieces over time. And if you are selective your basics could last for years!!

I picked out some great clothing basics that can be mixed, matched, and hopefully worn for years to come. Here’s to hoping right? Some of these items I personally own and others are ones that I’ve come across in my search. Let me know if you have any basics you love!!! I’m always looking for new ideas!!

BP Necklace could be considered a statement piece but it’s also classic. Pair it with jeans and a t-shirt or a dress and heels. The versatility of this is endless.

http://shopstyle.it/l/qBFT

Kate Spade disc studs are the perfect touch to any outfit.

http://shopstyle.it/l/qBPG

BP Crossbody is an all season handbag. Stylish details, classic color, comfortable wear. I have a friend who owns this bag and it’s a good size.

http://shopstyle.it/l/qJ8Q

BP Infinity Scarf 😍😍 I think Navy is such a great base color. It doesn’t get as much love as black but I think you would be happy with this addition.

http://shopstyle.it/l/qKaY

Madewell Cotton Tee..so comfy..the epitome of basic but yet timeless. Comes in several colors.

http://shopstyle.it/l/qKb8

Express Portofino Shirt- I own this in several colors. It’s perfect for work or going out. It can be worn alone or layered under a sweater. It can be worn in all seasons!!

http://shopstyle.it/l/qKcq

BP Sweater Pullover- This classic number is also perfect for layering or wearing alone. It comes in a few different colors as well.

http://shopstyle.it/l/qKgM

New Day open cardigan comes in gray and cream!! It might be more appropriate for cold weather but it could be useful in fall or for summer nights.

http://shopstyle.it/l/qKiJ

Mossimo T-shirt Dress is a perfect dress staple. I love V-Necks-they are so flattering. This could be causal or dressed up!! Just add some accessories and you are good to go!!

http://shopstyle.it/l/qKjF

New Day utility vest is a great layering option and has seen increased popularity over the past couple years. I don’t think this trend will fall out of style any time soon.

http://shopstyle.it/l/qKoz

Best.Jeans.Ever. So classic, so comfortable. I own these and I wish I had a couple pair. Great heavy material, don’t loose shape, and have a great look.

http://shopstyle.it/l/qKpH

Mid-Rise Rockstar Skinny Jeans. Everyone needs a pair a black skinny jeans. These are affordable and fit great. Buy a couple pairs;)

http://shopstyle.it/l/qKrG

Guess Carrie Heels. I’ve never loved a heel more than these. Sooo comfortable and they look great. I have them in several colors but black is the best option to maximize your options for wear!!

http://shopstyle.it/l/qKsZ

Sole Society Natasha boots could be worn with jeans or a dress. These beauties come in a couple color options. And aside from being adorable they offer comfort as well. Win/Win.

http://shopstyle.it/l/qKt0

Old Navy has a great selection of basic flats. I love this burgundy color. I think flats are a basic part of a shoe collection. Don’t count them out!!

http://shopstyle.it/l/qOcv

Last, but not least Converse tennis shoe. I have a similar pair of Converse shoes and I love them. They really complete an outfit. Great for a t-shirt dress or with a pair of jeans.

http://shopstyle.it/l/qKwF

Hope this helps you add to your “basics”!!

Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots xoxo

Disclaimer- All Links are affiliated and this writer will receive a percentage of profit from clicks and purchases using links in this article. All opinions and selections are my own and not endorsed by any company or retailer.

Christmas is quickly approaching and I’m already thinking about my gift giving plans. Have you started shopping? Are you finished? I do not belong in either of those categories. I tell myself every year that I will start my gift buying in October. Ha-ha!! Never happens. I have good intentions but sketchy follow through.

When it comes to gift giving I always think about two things:

1. What does the receiver of the gift like/enjoy?

2. Would I like to receive this gift?

Sounds vain doesn’t it? I swear it’s not intended to be. It has actually served me well over the years. How you ask? Well let’s be honest, sometimes you just have no clue what to get someone. You know their favorites but sometimes that well runs dry. So you have to start from scratch. For example, last Christmas one of my friends received a sampler pack of mascaras from Sephora. When she told me about it I instantly thought I want that too!! And then it hit me – I’ll get that for my sister in law. I knew her likes and interests but I didn’t want to keep getting her the same thing every year. The mascara sampler was such a great idea I knew she would love it too. And I was right, it was a hit!!

So I thought I would share some of my gifting favorites of this year! I don’t know about you but I’m always looking for new and different gift ideas. And maybe this will help you with your Christmas list too😉

This is a cute, inexpensive, perfect for all seasons gift. Do you know someone who just bought a house or loves to decorate outdoor spaces? This might be the perfect gift.

http://shopstyle.it/l/nyLi

Ahhh yea. This is so true these days.

http://shopstyle.it/l/nyKU

Who doesn’t want Chip & Joanna Gaines everything in their home? I love this scent and I think the jar is adorable and could definitely be recycled for another use!

http://shopstyle.it/l/nyMU

Dear Husband: I want this. Is it Gin or is it Espresso? Either way it’s a great traveling mug.

http://shopstyle.it/l/nyLU

First Things First.

http://shopstyle.it/l/nyL1

I love this BP scarf. It’s a great accessory that could go with so many outfits. Everyone needs something with animal print on it… right?

http://shopstyle.it/l/nzn4

Steaming clothing seems so much more dreamy then ironing. I also think I️ might be the last soul on earth that irons. Also, this would be great for someone who is a traveler.

http://shopstyle.it/l/nzoe

I tried these on at Target and wanted to take them home with me. I resisted, but it was difficult. These are awesome!!! Buy a pair for a loved one and yourself!

http://shopstyle.it/l/nzoG

Ohhh Kate Spade….

http://shopstyle.it/l/nzpr

Kate Spade Take 2. These would make work at the office better. They would for me anyway.

http://shopstyle.it/l/nzpD

$25 Dollars and Up

This gold and tortoise necklace is the cutest. Dress it up or dress it down. Perfect jewelry staple.

http://shopstyle.it/l/nzpP

I love quilted pattern anything these days. If you follow my Instagram you might have noticed. This would be such a cute tote for work or the gym. You decide 🙂

http://shopstyle.it/l/nzqf

Planner lover? Me too. I love the floral cover on this one and the fact that it’s hardcover. If you have never used a planner you should do it next year. New Years Resolution Time.

http://shopstyle.it/l/nzvf

This Baublebar necklace is so stunning and classic. A must have in my book.

http://shopstyle.it/l/nzvQ

Llama ❤️❤️❤️

http://shopstyle.it/l/nzwU

This Naked Palette is such a beautiful assortment of colors. Perfect for the lover of make-up and choices:)

http://shopstyle.it/l/nAuA

This Sole Society tote comes in a two colors and I love how chic it looks with it’s simple detailing. Sold!!!

http://shopstyle.it/l/nzDK

Pottery Barn has really hit the mark with this jewelry binder. This looks like it could solve hours of time spent on tangled necklaces and searching for loose stud earrings.

http://shopstyle.it/l/nAuN

This Sole Society Weekender bag is so cute!! The best thing about it is the bottom zipper compartment for shoes- Genius.

http://shopstyle.it/l/nAw0

I hope this was helpful in some way!! Take care and enjoy your holiday shopping!!

Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots xoxo

Disclaimer- All gift selections are my own- the links are affiliated- so if you chose to purchase something via one of the links in this blog I would receive some financial compensation. Links are through Shop Collective.

Is it just me or is deciding where to go out to eat sometimes a chore? It’s not that you don’t want to eat out, it’s that you don’t know where to go?#firstworldproblems        

In the case of my husband and I the conversation usually goes like this:

Husband: “Where do you want to eat?”

Me: “I don’t know. You pick-I picked last time.”

Husband: “Ok, what are you hungry for?”

Me: “I have no idea.”

Husband: “Anything sound good?”

Me: “Not really. Maybe we should just order pizza.”

Let me be clear, there is nothing wrong with ordering a pizza. However, if this is a reoccurring theme in your life it might be time for an intervention.  I will admit that it is difficult for us to go some places due to having our daughter (she’s two and yesterday she had a full on meltdown because she ripped a cheese slice in half and wanted me to put it back together). So sometimes we work around what would be good for her (like ordering a pizza) as I would venture to say many parents do. But when an opportunity comes along for a night out do you have a similar conversation to the one above? If you don’t I’m jealous. If you do then this blog post was made just for you!

While writing about this “ongoing dilemma” it made me think about all the great restaurants in Des Moines. There has always been a great local restaurant scene in Des Moines but over the past 10 years the options have doubled or maybe even tripled. I think that is something to be proud of and showcased!! Go Des Moines!!

#desmoinesdoesthings

I have rounded up a couple lists of restaurant’s in the Des Moines metro. I’m hoping this will help you solve the restaurant debate so you can spend time doing more enjoyable things- like drinking wine. Just a thought;) Anyway, five of these restaurants are places that I absolutely love. And the other five are restaurants that I have been wanting to try.  In my opinion, we fall into the habit of going places we have already been because we love them so much. I’m guilty of this but it’s always fun to try something new! Be adventurous. So if you live in or close to Des Moines or are visiting the area this would be a good reference guide for local restaurants. Give these places a try- you won’t be disappointed!! 

My Favorites (no particular order)

1. Centro– http://www.centrodesmoines.com/
2. Splash– http://splash-seafood.com/
3.  Tursi’s Latin King– https://m.mainstreethub.com/index.php/tursislatinking
4. The Continental– http://www.continental-lounge.com/
5. Lucca– https://www.luccadsm.net/menu/

Wanting to Try!

1. Cheese Bar- http://www.cheesebardsm.com/
2. Proof- http://proofrestaurant.com/
3. Mad Meatball- http://www.themadmeatball.com/location/
4. 801 Chophouse- https://801chophouse.com/des-moines/
5. A Dong- http://www.adongrestaurant.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/adongmenu.pdf

What is your favorite local restaurant? Seriously, I want to know!! In the comments below share your favorite local restaurant with me. It might help someone pick a restaurant who is visiting your area or planning to in the future. Plus, I love food so humor me.

Pink Thoughts & Espresso Shots 💕☕️

* This blog is based on my thoughts and opinions. I am receiving no financial compensation. All photos were taken by this writer.