I’ve never considered myself a diehard chocolate fan.  Don’t get me wrong, I love chocolate, but as an equal opportunity sweets kinda gal, I always peruse the dessert menu, not just settling for any old chocolate sweet.  This cookie recipe from the Hummingbird Bakery Cookbook has me questioning my position.  It is bursting at the seams with chocolate deliciousness, crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.  One of my favorite baking bloggers, Sweetapolita, recently blogged about this cookie, jazzing it up with an abundance of sprinkles.  I just knew I had to recreate it… and taste test it numerous times to make sure it was up to par.

My grandmother is an amazing seamstress.  She’s the one who taught me to sew when my age was in the single digits.  She created my First Communion dress, my favorite pajamas and spring outfits.  She also made us grandchildren deliciously cozy bathrobes, better than anything you could buy in a store.  So when it came time last Christmas to buy my incredible niece a gift, I knew that starting a tradition between her and I was the only option.  I found the softest fabric I could to create a little something for the most special little someone in my life.

See by Chloe Dress, Prada Boots, Tom Ford Handbag (similar style), Hermes Watch, Leah Alexandra Bracelet

There is nothing that feels as easy or carefree as throwing on a simple dress and boots on a lovely fall day.  It’s so easy to slip this type of outfit on and head out the door for brunch, shopping or sightseeing.  The best part about it is that it doesn’t look like it’s been rushed, but as if it has been carefully considered after many attempts.  Let’s pretend I didn’t just let you in on my little secret now, okay?

It seems today that everyone is so much busier than in university.  Jobs, work, and family, it all seems to add up so quickly.  So I thought it was necessary to step up to the plate and create an evening where some of the best women I know could stop by for a glass of wine and some tasty treats.  I made my infamous mac and cheese, that I promise to feature on here soon, bocconcini salad, meatballs, cheese and crackers and lots of veg.  The best part of the evening was being voted in to host every month, like there was any other option.

J. Crew Sweater, Pink Tartan Skirt (different print), Christian Louboutin Pumps, Valentino Handbag, Tiffany Earrings, Michael Kors Watch, David Yurman Bracelet, Chan Luu Bracelet (similar style)

The weather in Calgary has been unbelievable this week and I’ve been enjoying being able to extend the bare legged season.  I love this type of weather, where it’s not quite cool enough to wear tights, but crisp enough to pair a thin sweater with your skirt.  This is the time in Calgary where I frantically try and wear my suede shoes as much as possible before the moisture hits the city.  And I’m just going to have to do it one cute outfit at a time.

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