Friday Morning

I don't know about you but this was a strange week, it was slow but fast at the same time, amrite?! How was your Christmas? If you weren't with family, I hope your holiday was wonderful. I've certainly had an interesting week and I'd like to finish it off by having my apartment back and sleeping through the weekend. What are your plans for New Year's Eve?! Mine includes staying in bed with hot and spicy soup and working to get the new site launched by next week! That's right, Sit and Stay Awhile is moving and getting a face lift, and I for one cannot wait to show you :) So cheers to the weekend and a Happy New Year! See you in 2018! 

6 Great Podcasts

Magazine of the Year

Linda Rodin's Beauty Routine

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A New Year

There once was a girl sitting at her desk with a blank document opened on her computer. Her eyes would venture from the blank screen to the window and out into the moonlit night, staring up at a lit up cross a top a hiking trial. She was ambitious, she was creative and she was fiddling with the chain of her necklace on the verge of tears wondering if she would ever amount to anything. After a few hours of Fran Fine's fashion choices in The Nanny, her third glass of wine, a christmas cookie and contemplating whether or not she should send an email, she hit submit and waited. 

A day (or two) later, she got a response and quickly got to work. That eventually led to the founding of the Palm Springs chapter of Silent Book Club,The Librarians Suggest and other projects. The following year would be the year of YES. And while YES can be the beginning of wonderful things ahead, you have to sacrifice a lot.  Self care becomes less a priority and relationships can become rocky. It was also the year of  testing - testing boundaries, testing strength and testing yourself. It was a good year but a hard one too, every moment was monumental. The girl's strength wavered and exhaustion took over quickly.  Many evenings were filled with creating new content, meetings, editing, reading through sixty books for book clubs, work and personal growth, planning out and starting a podcast, collaborations, more editing, and working overtime. Blending your profession, your side hustle and your personal life is not exactly a good thing, but when your passionate you can't help it.

To many sleepless (and restless) nights and all the projects that made it (but were also very successful throughout the year) to the end of 2017, I'm the happiest person in the world. Well, besides the whole sleep depravity thing.  Here's to another year of yes but taking better care of myself, implementing morning/evening routines and continuing my intention of pursuing inner strength. To new things ahead, let's celebrate the fact that 2018 will be a great year!
   

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Friday Morning

Wherever you are in the world Merry Christmas and to those that don't celebrate this holiday, I hope you're having a wonderful holiday season. Safe travels if you haven't made it to your destination, keep warm, relax and enjoy the company of your family or if you're alone whether at home or traveling, have a fabulous trip.  I'm still wrapping a few gifts and listening to The Nutcracker. How are you doing on your shopping? Are you all done? I met a man yesterday who hadn't even started his shopping, good luck to anyone looking for last minute items.  I'll be taking a mini break with only a few posts for next week. 

Surviving The Holidays

History of LBD

A Soundtrack to Living in New York

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The Librarian Suggests: The Best Of

What I Read This Year (and Loved):

Shakespeare and Co, Paris by Krista Halverson - If you love reading books about books, then make sure to add this (very famous) independent bookstore on your travel bucket list. A bookstore opened by an American in the 1920s acts as both a sanctuary for book lovers and a hotel for writers on their way. 

Dear Fahrenheit 451 by Annie Spence - A librarian who writes love letters and break-up notes to the books in her life. Anyone who loves books will appreciate and laugh at loud at what she has to say to some of her favorite and not so favorite books. . 

The Lottery by Shirley Jackson - Given that this story is only ten pages and was written in the forties (and written by a woman), it certainly gives a lasting impression. Think Leave It To Beaver meets The Hunger Games meets The Stoning of Soraya M. It's horrifying, you'll be screaming at the book by the end. 

The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis - For her research, the author spent several months interviewing women and young girls in refugee camps in Pakistan and used the interviews as the basis of this story. With her father wrongfully accused and taken away, a young Afghani girl cuts her hair, dresses as a boy and works in the market by day and looks for her father by night. A beautiful story that shows us the lives of young women in the Middle East.

Here We Are Now by Oliver Jeffers - There are many reasons why Oliver Jeffers is one of my favorite children's authors/illustrators. He's Irish (I don't know why that's important, but it is), every one of his stories is unique, the illustrations are stunning and his books really make you think. "From land and sky, to people and times, these notes can be your guide and start you on your journey. You'll figure lots of things out for yourself. Just remember to leave notes for everyone else..." This book is not just meant for children, it's an excellent reminder (and leaves an important message) for adults as well. 

What I Watched This Year (and Loved):
It may be no surprise that The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel was my favorite show this year. Not in a feminist sort of way but I think it was a show that was really needed. At least we know Amy Sherman-Palladino hasn't lost her magical touch at making great television. And obviously, the second season of Stranger Things!!!

What I Listened Too This Year (and Loved):
A little late to this podcast, but I've been binging Leandra Medine Cohen's podcast, Monocycle over the last week and I love it so much. It feels like your in the middle of a great conversation with a friend. They are short, ten minute episodes on literally any subject you can think of. There were so many wonderful podcasts I listened to this year, both fictional and gabfest/cultural discussion types of shows but I don't know, Leandra just knows how to grab people and make you think about our daily lives, our habits and behaviors. 

Gift Guide: Part IV

Brighten up his and everyone else's least favorite day of the week with a sweatshirt that perfectly captures our Monday feels. 

Seriously, who doesn't love this skincare line?  

For the bookworm that he is. 

He'll be playing with his new gadget for the rest of the day. 

For the new record collector. 

For the traveler, he will love this globe lamp. 

So he and his wife can watch movies outdoors on their patio. 

My Best Buys of 2017

 Girls Night In Take Care Journal - I subscribed to the Girls Night In newsletter months ago. I can't tell you how much I look forward to Friday mornings. In fact I usually head into work early so I can relax, indulge with a blueberry bagel and catch up with all the coziness that is bundled up in this newsletter. They recently opened their shop and I was quick to buy myself a few things. As I mentioned last week about my 2018 goals, this self care journal is already filled with notes and ideas on how I want to take better care myself. 

Nash Mini Waffle Iron - Six or seven months ago, I found this light pink mini waffle irons in a Home Goods. I snatched it right up before someone else did. I don't use it all the time but whenever I'm feeling I need something sweet, I love making cinnamon roll waffles for a weekend. It makes the entire house smell so good. If you don't make waffles a ton, this little mini is the perfect gift for yourself or your friends.  

 Patricia Nash Anita Heels - For my birthday last month my mom introduced me to the designer, Patricia Nash. I don't love everything but the Anita Heel, which comes in a few colors are my favorite shoes, maybe ever. With a chunky heel, it can be worn with just about anything. 

 iTunes Streaming Service - If you have been following me since the beginning then you know that I'm a music fiend. I literally listen to everything so I'm constantly making playlists, whether its classical, show tunes, foreign artists or 90s rap, I always have music playing. Last month, I finally set up the subscription for the streaming service iTunes provides and I love it. I'm been listening to the 80s playlist nonstop. 

 Jade Eye Roller - So how do you use it? Store it in the fridge before use. Apply eye cream under your eyes or directly on the smaller end of your roller. Rolling the cream helps the eye cream penetrate better. And while you're at it, use the larger end of the roller on the rest of your face. It sounds ridiculous but believe it feels amazing and if you're someone like me who gets the puffy eye look, you will love this!

Book of the Month - Have you seen the Book of the Month commercial? It's fantastic! This goes without saying, but I seriously can't wait to get my book box every second week of the month. This month I chose a debut YA author choice, The City of Brass and I can't wait to start it. A conwoman,  the crumbling streets of Eighteenth century Cairo, yes please! It's the oldest book club in the states, so do yourself a favor and sign up :)

 Bando Agenda/Planner - Anyone who knows me well, knows that I have a problem with Bando. I mean at this point, I should probably just work with the company. I own close to everything (not really) and I know the company inside and out. I follow them in every capacity and well Jen Gotch is my hero. If you live in chaos and need a planner, then you need one from Bando. Filled with stickers, wacky holidays to remember and ideas for a more fulfilling week, get it! 

 TonyMoly Face Masks - My sister introduced this brand to me when we moved in together at the beginning of the year and ever since then, I wear one almost every night. I buy them in bulk, so by the time I'm ready to get in the bath, I can chill out and listen to my podcasts in peace. Seriously, this is probably my favorite thing I've bought this year.  

 Here We Are Now by Oliver Jeffers - There are many reasons why Oliver Jeffers is one of my favorite children's authors/illustrators. He's Irish (I don't know why that's important, but it is), everyone of his stories is unique, the illustrations are stunning and his books really make you think. "From land and sky, to people and times, these notes can be your guide and start you on your journey. You'll figure lots of things out for yourself. Just remember to leave notes for everyone else..." This book is not just meant for children, it's an excellent reminder (and leaves an important message) for adults as well. 

Women's Velour Jogger Sweatpants - I can't be the only to notice that Target has upped it's game in the clothing department. Brands like A New Day and Joy Lab, are two of my favorite brands to shop at the super store right now. Long time Target brand Mosimo has multiple colors in the velour sweatpants and I can't get enough of these. Comfy, cozy, chic - that's all I need. 

Weekend Wrap Up...

 shopping, wrapping, baking and christmas movies.

 this cheesecake from trader joes...

when it sprinkles, it's time for a walk.

(images via instagram)

Leandra

I've been a devout Man Repeller reader for a few years now so the fact I didn't know Leandra had a podcast, well shame on me. The good news, you can binge the last two years pretty quickly. Whether you are in the bath, doing yoga or just relaxing in bed, it sounds like you're in the middle of a great conversation with a friend. So do yourself a favor and follow Monocycle. 

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Friday Morning

Good morning readers, how are you?! I woke up this morning completely ready for the new year. Not to say that 2017 has been a bad year because it wasn't, it was just a year of soul searching for me, professionally and personally. It was the year of hanging out on the sidelines, a little unsure of things and questioning everyone and everything coming at me. And before this turns into a lengthy post on life, (I promise I'm saving that for the next few weeks as we close in on this year), I just want to say, I can't believe I'm still here. Sit and Stay Awhile is still kicking at seven years old. There were times where I was ready to call it quits and move on with my life. But this space, there's something about it I just can't part with. It's helped me grow in so many ways. So even if I walked away, the blog is apart of who I am. So get cozy and stay awhile because it's only about to get better. Have a lovely weekend and see you next week :)

Trips of a Life Time

We're Making Progress

The Life Coach You Didn't Know You Needed

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The Librarian Suggests

If you're wondering what to read to the little ones Christmas Eve, these classics have been a hit in my story times over the last few weeks. Mr. Willowby's Christmas is a must and A Christmas Stocking Story is a forgotten love of mine. What is your favorite holiday story?! 

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The Daily Escape

When I think Copenhagen, I think Hygge, who doesn't? As I have said many times, Denmark is one of my favorite cities I've ever been too. Ten years ago when I traveled abroad and ventured into the Nordic countries, I fell in love with Denmark and Norway. Here a few interesting facts about this cozy city.  

1. Copenhagen is consistently ranked as the happiest city in the world. 

2. Tivoli is Denmark’s second oldest amusement park (the oldest one, Bakken, an hour north of Copenhagen) and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. The rides here are all old-school, the oldest roller coaster is over 100 years old. 

3. If you are like me and prefer a cozy setting with warm lighting and your closest friends, well the Danes are the experts at relaxing. Learn more about Hygge.

4. More than half of the city's resdients, from hourly workers to members of Parliament, commute by bike along Copenhagen's 250 miles of bike lanes. 

5. Copenhagen is home to the longest pedestrian shopping street in the entire world, Stroget. You’ll find plenty of international brands here, but also smaller Danish chains, where you can pick up some unique souvenirs from Denmark.

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Life Lately

As usual, A New Day just keeps getting better and better. Have you seen all their fantastic sweaters and coats. I'm especially into this draping turtle neck sweater. 

Part of my mission for next year is to take better care of myself. I have no excuse, I'm out of school and while work seems to be hectic and busy often, I still should make time for myself. To get back into tune with my mind, body and self, I'm starting yoga for the second time. 

I get the bags and the discoloration big time under my times, this jade roller helps so much.

I don't know about you but I have had my Christmas Playlist playing since Thanksgiving. 

My favorite Christmas book ever.

This ornament. 

Everyday is a mask day in my house, these are must haves. 

For the traveler, gypsey, foodie, music junkie and those who want to slow down and appreciate everything in your life, you will love Absent Minded.

It's soup weather and all I can think of is Matzah Ball Soup. If you haven't been to Sherman's Deli in the desert, than you have to put it on your must to do list for when you are in town.

Weekend Wrap Up...

 patio goals achieved :)

 sunday jams...

a quiet kick back weekend with these two. 

(images via instagram)

Jenna Lyons at Home

Jenna Lyons, who know the face of J.Crew who has impeccable taste, well this is her gorgeous Soho loft. Soak in all the ornate detailing, colors and vintage pieces scattered throughout her home. House goals, amirite?!  

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Friday Morning

Happy Holidays Everyone! It's been way too long since we've chatted, and I want to know how you all are? With Christmas right around the corner, I'm just now starting to shop for gifts and tending to my tree. The only plans in order for this weekend is gift shopping, decorating my place, Christmas movies all weekend, homemade recipes, editing our holiday edition of the podcast and relaxing. What are your plans?! 

Night Time Routines of The Most Successful People

Say Sorry Less

The Best Inventions of 2017

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Things I'm Into This Week

A few nights ago, I finally settled in to watch the first Christmas movie of the season. And even though Netflix produced it, The Christmas Prince is basically their version of a Hallmark holiday movie. Filled with cliches and situations that would never happen in the real world, (fans of The Princess Diaries, The Prince and Me, What A Girl Wants will love this movie) I let my mind take The Christmas Prince, for what it's worth, a terrible and utterly cheesy holiday romantic comedy. 

I saw this shirt floating around the insta-feed of my bookish instagram account. And now it's mine. An excellent gift for your book hoarding friend or family member :)

I can't get enough of these tabby cat browser backgrounds. 

 I have been following Julie Houts for months now on Instagram, she is by far my favorite person/illustrator ever. I also bought her book recently, I was practically in tears from laughing so hard the other night reading it. I promise, she's worth following. 

And if I haven't written enough about Messy Nessy Chic, she now has short episodes of her 'Don't be a Tourist' series. There's only a few out at the moment but they are totally worth watching. Since she's known for the path not taken, there's so much to learn about Paris and France from Vanessa. 

Gift Guides: Part III

What man doesn't need a new pair of socks, at least these are cool! 

With your Hamilton (the musical) obsession, he wants to be in the know. 

He always needs the newest gadget. 

For the reader he is, he'll love this book subscription.

He has an addiction to toffee. 

So everyone can chip in on his next vacation. 

The Librarian Suggests

What's on my bookshelf:
Jade may have mentioned and discussed her thoughts on My Best Friend's Exorcism earlier in the year but now that I just read it, I can't recommend it enough. Like, wow - what a fantastic story! A combination of your favorite 80's teen flick and The Exorcist, this book was exciting and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I read it in almost one sitting because I just couldn't put it down. With big crimped hair, (a little bit of) a Heathers vibe and an exorcism scene that will make you laugh, this is hands down my favorite adult fiction book of the year. Like I said Jade recommended it at the beginning of the year, I don't know what took me so long to get to it but I can't say how much I loved this book. I just checked out Horrorstor from the library and I can't wait to get to it this weekend. I also read five other books last month including The Witch of Blackbird Pond, The Buddha Walks into a Bar, Go Ask Alice, Nice is Just a Place in France and Literally Me by Julie Houts.

All excellent reads by the way. If you're desperate (like me) for learning how to control your anxiety and need help calming down, Buddha Walks into a Bar is very helpful but entertaining at the same time. It's a modern approach to understanding and starting your own meditation practice. I highly suggest anything written by Lodro Rinzler, I have a few other books by him and I love his writing style and the calming affect his books have. Go Ask Alice ended up being the required reading for our podcast but I enjoyed rereading it for the second time. I first read this book as a fifth or sixth grader. Then it was slightly terrifying, I remembered so many of the details. Second time around, I had a lot of problems with it. If you want to know exactly how I felt, you can listen to Jade, Gina (another librarian) and I talk about it at The Librarian Suggests. The book by The Betches, Nice is Just a Place in France is very clearly a satirical book (with maybe a few tips and tricks for taking on global domination). I've seen a lot of criticism around it, many girls are reading it and taking it way too seriously. If you're in for a quick read, it's just the right book for you. And without spending an entire paragraph on Julie Houts debut book - Literally Me, all I have to say is buy it. It will be worth it. It's a book you'll pick up again and again. 

What's on my Netflix Queue:
Lovely, Actually. When it hits December, it's nothing but Christmas movies for me, whether it's watching Home Alone for the thousandth time or Love, Actually (because who doesn't love this movie). And obviously, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, because Amy Sherman-Palladino can do no wrong. 

What I've Been Listening Too: 
My Christmas Playlist and catching up with episodes of The Librarian Is In. Jade got me hooked to Deadly Manners. A short show by the producers of The Darkest Night, it's an excellent but modern take on Agatha Christie meets Clue. 

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Weekend Wrap Up...

  always more wine.

 this festive dishware.

 the most visceral comedian out there...

 quiet night in.

home project including hanging my new curtains.

(images via instagram)