Holidays via Instagram

Happy last day of December AND happy last day of 2012! I seriously can't believe this fun and fabulous year is almost over, but I'm definitely looking forward to 2013... I have a feeling it will be an even better year!! :) I always love looking back at my photos to remind me of the good times and this holiday season was no exception! Between Philly, NYC, Kentucky and Maryland, I was able to enjoy the season with the people I love most! Here are some of the photos I took over the past 6 weeks:

Left to right: Alejandro and I celebrating Christmas in Kentucky // Celebrating 1000 blog followers with my favorite champagne [thanks alejandro!] // One of my new favorite ornaments [i love tweets] // Georgetown Cupcakes are delicious and pretty // Yummy Thanksgiving dinner // Co-worker's dog looking handsome in his holiday jacket // Pretty presents under the Christmas tree // Paw print in my mocha latte [and my fav instagram I have taken to date] // Christmas tree at Rock Center // My gift wrap this year [plaid, polkadots + rifflepaperco] // Cinnamon rolls are perfect for any holiday [or any weekend] // Alejandro and I after celebrating Christmas in Philly // Pretty trees at Terrain in PA // Rum and coke cupcakes // More wrapped presents // Christmas tree cupcakes // Alejandro's present for me // Desserts at Barbuzzo [our favorite] // Jeni's ice cream - a gift for Alejandro's family // Went to Build-a-Bear with these adorable rugrats // Christmas Bowling // Hotdog Scarf? Amazing. // Getting a new do [nothing too drastic] // I won the Sorel + Onlineshoes.com style contest!!! :)

Friday's Fancies: {New Years Finest}

Happy Friday and happy almost New Years Eve! With only 4 more days left of the year, I am looking forward to celebrating the end of a fabulous 2012 and the beginning of what I believe will be my best year yet! After many travels this holiday season, Alejandro and I will be back in Philly for the New Year. We have dinner reservations at a yummy restaurant... which will be followed by champagne popping at midnight! Even though our New Years will be a little more low key [my kind of style] it doesn't mean that I am not looking forward to dressing up. Here is my inspiration for ringing in 2013:

 dress // necklace // pumps // clutch

linking up with av's {friday's fancies}

Only a few more hours to {vote} for me in the onlineshoes style contest. I am neck in neck with another blogger and just need a couple more votes to win!! :) Thank you in advance!

Also, check out my {New Years Giveaway} to win a fabulous monogrammed tote! xoxo.

Happy Holidays!

Well, it's official - I am on vacation as of 3 pm today! And... I am not bringing my computer home so I wanted to say Happy Holidays a little early [even though I have been celebrating the holidays for a week now]!! I hope everyone has the merriest time with their family, friends and loved ones. Please try to take a few days off from technology, eat a lot of holiday treats, give and receive fun gifts, count your blessings in your own life, and most importantly take a minute to remember what Christmas is truly about! To leave you with a little extra holiday spirit, here are some inspiring holiday images I love - 

While I am gone... check out my {new years giveaway} and if you haven't already, I would love if you could {vote} for me in the onlineshoes' style contest. Thank you!! xxoo.

images 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5/ 6

New Years Giveaway: LBxBLVD Monogrammed Tote

I am very excited to be hosting a New Years giveaway from {Ladybird} - a specialty boutique in Columbus, Ohio!! Allison, owner of Ladybird, and her best friend {Bryn Sanders} co-designed this amazing bag that Boulevard produced for them! The second I saw the bag on instagram, I fell in love! And... one of these beautiful bags can be YOURS! What a perfect treat for the new year!

The LBxBLVD monogrammed bag [$122 value] is sold exclusively at Ladybird Fashion Boutique.

Enter the giveaway anytime between Thursday, 12.20 and Monday, 12.31 using the rafflecopter form below. There are several ways to enter and the giveaway is open to any reader of a {little} dash of ash! One lucky winner will receive this beautiful bag with their initials provided by Ladybird Boutique.  Winner will be announced on January 1, 2013. Good Luck!! xxoo.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sorel Boots Contest

Hi Friends! I have partnered with {onlineshoes.com} and am participating in their monthly styling contest. They generously sent me a pair of {Sorel Conquest Carly Boots} to style - you can see my awesome modeling job below, but please don't judge... this was my first attempt at #ootd!

All I need is your help! Hop on over to the {voting page} to vote for me! I promise it takes only one click to vote - super easy! And, if you want, you can submit your email for a chance to win a pair of your own... only if you want, not required to vote. But, seriously, how cute are these boots?

Funny story - when I received these {Sorel Women's Boots} I was praying for a snow day... I had this entire vision of how I would style these boots while playing in the snow. Well, I got the exact opposite of my "wish" - the day I took photos (the last possible day) it was 70 degrees in November! Seriously?! I swear people were staring at me! haha. So needless to say, these boots would be perfect for any snowy day... or a warm fall day! ;) 

If you get a chance to {vote for me}, please leave a comment on this post! If I win, I plan on giving away a pair of {Sorel Boots} to one of my readers... because, well, you guys are the best! :) xo.

click here to vote

26 Moments...

This was most definitely not my planned post for today -- However, after all of the sadness and heartache America felt on Friday when learning of the attack on Sandy Hook Elementary School, it was nice to come across this {article} that helped remind me that there are still wonderful people out there. While my heart will forever go out to the families and victims of last Friday's shooting, this article truly did "restore my faith in humanity".  If you haven't seen it yet, check it out {here}.  Also, if you are looking for a way to share your good thoughts or prayers for the families of Newtown, check out this page {here}.

26 Moments That Restored Our Faith in Humanity this Year - but here are just a few of my favorites... including a 27th, that was not included in the article, but you can read about {here}. 

the people who helped out any way they could during hurricane sandy

a kind stranger who stopped a day from being ruined

parents of the year award

12th Day of Christmas: {That's a Wrap}

Happy 12th Day of Christmas! And... 12/12/12! And... 12 more shopping days until Christmas! :) Since I have given you over 130 gift ideas, I thought I would share some of my favorite ways to wrap it all up into one pretty gift! I am positive that I love "paper" more than anyone I know, so my gift wrap is just as thought out as the gift itself - presentation is key [for me]! I know, I'm kind of crazy! ;) I blame my Mother and my Aunt who both have ridiculously beautiful gifts under their tree every single year! PS. Here is a {sneak peak} at my wrapping this year - I decided that plaid, polka-dots and {rifle paper co tags} were the perfect combination!

Starting top left: {from santa tag} // {burlap flower} // {red stripe / dot reversible paper} // {red and white bakers twine} // {natural jute rope} // {for you gift tag} // {festive bottle tags} // {chalkboard holiday card set} // {dot kraft bags} // {cute holiday cards} // {red burlap ribbon} // {christmas ribbon}.

Previous Gift Guides: Stocking Stuffers for Her, Stocking Stuffers for Him, Gifts for the Paris-Obsessed, Gifts for the Girl with Resolutions, Gifts for Mr. Impossible (aka Dad), Gifts from Target + Neiman Marcus, Gifts for the Foodie, Gifts for her Jewelry Box, Gifts for your iFriend, Gifts for the Beauty Queen, My Ultimate Wishlist

11th Day of Christmas: {My Ultimate Wishlist}

Happy 11th Day of Christmas! With my 12 days of Christmas series coming to an end tomorrow, I thought I would share my ultimate wishlist! This is my current dream list... and boy did I realize how old I am getting! I am craving home items and fun kitchen gadgets over clothes, shoes and accessories! Who would have ever thought! ;) But definitely at the top of my wishlist... a new macbook pro and a chance to go to {blogshop}! What is on your dream list?

Starting top left: love these {gold pig bookends} // been dying for a {green KitchenAid mixer} for awhile now // need this {verismo brewer} in my kitchen // how adorable are these {his & her bar glasses} // on my birthday wishlist - a {lo & sons OG bag} in black // this {mason pearson brush} is definitely on my list // i think this {i love ny pillow} would be perfect in my family room // a travel {jewelry organizer} to go in my lo & sons bag // a new {macbook pro laptop} since my old laptop died :( // i would love to attend a blogshop class... hopefully there are {blogshop gift certificates} available // i know this {gold athena tray} has been around for awhile, but i still love it!

Previous Gift Guides: Stocking Stuffers for Her, Stocking Stuffers for Him, Gifts for the Paris-Obsessed, Gifts for the Girl with Resolutions, Gifts for Mr. Impossible (aka Dad), Gifts from Target + Neiman Marcus, Gifts for the Foodie, Gifts for her Jewelry Box, Gifts for your iFriend, Gifts for the Beauty Queen

10th Day of Christmas: {Gifts for the Beauty Queen}

Hi friends! I hope you had a great weekend!! If you did not finish your holiday shopping yet, today's post can help you finish up any girl [or guy] on your list... yes, I included two gift ideas for the dudes as well! The beauty industry does an amazing job of putting together gifts that are already boxed up and pretty. Last year I got Alejandro a {Kiehl's Men Set} and he loved it, this year I am thinking about giving a {Birchbox Subscription} to one of the ladies on my shopping list, and I absolutely love the philosophy {Christmas Morning Gift Set}! See below for a few other ideas for any beauty queen [or king]! :) xxoo.

Starting top left: sample the best beauty and lifestyle samples with {birchbox} for her + him // nailpolish is the perfect stocking stuffer, i am loving {essie's resort collection} // get perfect skin with the highly coveted {clarisonic mia 2} // my favorite stuff in the world - {benefit porefessional} // how cute is this {philosophy christmas morning gift set} // get beautiful with {nars 'andy warhol' edie gift set} // holiday lips with {lippy by butter london} **on sale // {prada candy} fragrance set // for that special man in your life - {kiehl's men set} // {mor 'sorbet' lip macaron}.

Previous Gift Guides: Stocking Stuffers for Her, Stocking Stuffers for Him, Gifts for the Paris-Obsessed, Gifts for the Girl with Resolutions, Gifts for Mr. Impossible (aka Dad), Gifts from Target + Neiman Marcus, Gifts for the Foodie, Gifts for her Jewelry Box, Gifts for your iFriend

9th Day of Christmas: {Gifts for your iFriend}

Happy 9th Day of Christmas! Today's gift guide is for those on your shopping list that love their iPhone and iPad! With prices ranging from low to high, you can definitely find something for your iFriends on this list! :) My personal favorites include: the Jonathan Adler iPhone dock (so cute) and the Kate Spade 'knock on wood' iPhone case! But, who wouldn't want to receive a lens for their phone in their stocking?! So fun. Hope you have a great weekend! The last 3 days of Christmas will resume on Monday and end on Wednesday [the 12th day of December] giving you enough time to shop, receive and wrap by Christmas!

Starting top left: the cutest {telephone iPhone dock} from jonathan adler // how perfect are these {ugg tech earmuffs} for the cold temps that are coming? // love the {cell phone lenses} you can add to your phone for the perfect picture // knock on wood anywhere you are with this kate spade {iPhone case} // feeling extra giving this year? anyone would love an {iPad mini} // love this last year... and still love the {photo cube} for printing photos from home // want to carry your phone in style? check out this {iPhone clutch} // polkadot {iPad sleeve} // pop color {phone handset} for your iPhone.

Previous Gift Guides: Stocking Stuffers for Her, Stocking Stuffers for Him, Gifts for the Paris-Obsessed, Gifts for the Girl with Resolutions, Gifts for Mr. Impossible (aka Dad), Gifts from Target + Neiman Marcus, Gifts for the Foodie, Gifts for her Jewelry Box

8th Day of Christmas: {Gifts for her Jewelry Box}

Happy 8th Day of Christmas! Today's gift guide is for her jewelry box. I love jewelry more than anything and I am positive that any of the items below would make me smile if they showed up under the tree or in my stocking! Especially that first necklace from J.Crew. Another perfect gift for any lady on your shopping list is a gift from the {Baublebar + Essie} collection (nail polish and baubles? yes, please) or a {Baublebar Giftcard} so she can have fun picking our her new jewels! Happy Shopping!! xo.

Starting top Left: j.crew {pearls and petals necklace}, monogrammed {jewelry box} from c. wonder, slim double wrap leather {watch} by michael kors, {inca cuff}, marc by marc jacobs {daisy stud earrings}, 2 in one gift... {friendship puzzle necklace}, {woven gold bar bracelet}, loving holiday baubles like this {pearl bud chandelier}, anything bows please! these {bow earrings} are perfect, for the most fancy ears, check out these {gold and crystal earrings}, stack 'em high with {kate spade bracelets}.

Previous Gift Guides: Stocking Stuffers for Her, Stocking Stuffers for Him, Gifts for the Paris-Obsessed, Gifts for the Girl with Resolutions, Gifts for Mr. Impossible (aka Dad), Gifts from Target + Neiman Marcus, Gifts for the Foodie

7th Day of Christmas: {Gifts for the Food Lover}

Happy 7th Day of Christmas! Today's gift guide is inspired by the "foodie" in all of us [or at least myself]! Food is the perfect gift because it makes people happy! Some of my favorites below include Jeni's homemade ice cream... I sure do miss living across the street from her shop in Columbus, Ohio (yes, directly across the street - it was amaze)! Cheese of the month sounds amazing and has officially been added to my wishlist! And... anything by McClure's - yummy! Oh, and if you are making holiday treats this year, how adorable are these foodie gift tags! Hope I didn't make you hungry! xo.

Starting top left: the perfect holiday sweets, {jeni's ice cream} holiday collection, a dip-dyed {cheese board} - so on trend, william-sonoma {cookies in a jar} or make your own {here}, the cutest little {salt and pepper cellars}, {cheese of the month} club, please sign me up, the best {bloody mary mix} and {garlic dill pickles} by mcclure's, bouchon bakery {book}, a luxury - {white truffle salt}, the perfect {market tote}, french {table knives} - on sale.

Previous Gift Guides: Stocking Stuffers for Her, Stocking Stuffers for Him, Gifts for the Paris-Obsessed, Gifts for the Girl with Resolutions, Gifts for Mr. Impossible (aka Dad), Gifts from Target + Neiman Marcus

6th Day of Christmas: {Gifts from Target + Neiman Marcus}

Happy 6th Day of Christmas! This holiday season, Target teamed up with Neiman Marcus for one of their biggest designer collaborations with more than 50 different gifts from over 24 amazing designers! The items launched this past Saturday, 12/1, but guess what... the items are still available for you to purchase at {Target} and {Neiman Marcus}! Below are just a few of my favorites and with the collection starting at less than $10 there should be a gift for everyone on your list (including yourself)! I think I'm going to pick up those Joseph Altuzarra {bar accessories}!! They will be perfect on my bar cart! Did you snag any fun pieces at Target this weekend?

All items are available online at {Target} or {Neiman Marcus}.

I highly recommend you browsing all 50+ gifts!

Happy Shopping!

Previous Gift Guides: Stocking Stuffers for Her, Stocking Stuffers for Him, Gifts for the Paris-Obsessed, Gifts for the Girl with Resolutions, Gifts for Mr. Impossible (aka Dad)

5th Day of Christmas: {Gifts for Mr. Impossible aka DAD}

Happy 5th Day of Christmas!! I don't know if it is just me, but my Dad is always the hardest person on my shopping list! What do you get the man who already has everything he needs and wants! I finally begged my dad to send me a list of a few items I could choose from... the list was pretty short, but I was able to get him something he will at least enjoy! Oh, and if all else fails, a bottle of his favorite wine is an easy, but nice, present (and you can enjoy a glass of wine with him)! What are you getting your Dad this year?

Starting top left: a handsome leather {belt}, coach {key chain}, a {tie case} for when he travels, remote control {electric boat} as a collectors gift or for when he feels like being a "kid", cooper double old-fashion {whiskey glasses} from CB2, super cozy man {ugg slippers}, dad will never lose his ball with a {golf ball monogrammer set}, who pays, who goes, who stays? find out with these {tie breaker coins} - so cool, {humidor} and {cigar ashtray}, his favorite wine - my dad's is {PlumpJack}, the perfect holiday {sweater}.

Previous Gift Guides: Stocking Stuffers for Her, Stocking Stuffers for Him, Gifts for the Paris-Obsessed, Gifts for the Girl with Resolutions

4th Day of Christmas: {Gifts for the Girl with Resolutions}

Happy 4th Day of Christmas! Every girl has resolutions beginning on January 1st, so I thought I would put together a little gift guide for those who love to workout [or those who need a little extra motivation to workout]! These items are perfect for beginners and seasoned pros! My {nike free run shoes} are my favorite running shoes [ever] and I personally have a few Lululemon items on my wishlist because I am doing a 30-day yoga challenge in January! Hope these items can bring a little motivation to someone on your list! Cute new apparel motivates! ;) PS. the {tie-dye tank} below is 30% off!

Starting top left: a new {yoga mat}, a gold {yoga monkey} as a reminder to workout, {yoga strap}, the perfect running shoe {nike free run} and {nike+ chip} for inside your shoe, {towel} for hot yoga, {hair ties}, tie-dye workout {tank}, jersey {leggings} for working out or everyday, a {self magazine} subscription, grip yoga {socks}, anything from {lululemon} - definitely on my personal wishlist as a girl can never have enough {wunder under crops}, SIGG {water bottle}, longchamp {tote} for all of her gear, and a {yoga block}, perfect accessory to throw in her tote.

Previous Gift Guides: Stocking Stuffers for Her, Stocking Stuffers for Him, Gifts for the Paris-Obsessed

3rd Day of Christmas: {Gifts for the Paris-Obsessed}

Happy 3rd Day of Christmas! Today's list was inspired by, well, ME! :) Since all I think about is my Paris trip in a couple of months, I thought I would put together a few "Paris" or "French" items that inspire me! It just so happens I am in desperate need for some new perfume and a cheese knife set, so a couple of these items are actually on my real wishlist! Oh, and a big hint to anyone who might be getting me a present this year... you can get Ladurée Macarons in NYC! Just sayin'... xxoo.

Starting top left: a playful take on the classic french sailor shirt, {comme des garcons striped tee} // pretty {macarons} from ladurée // macaron {trinket box} // chloé {perfume} // paris vs. new york {book} // laguiole {cheese knife set} // kate spade paris {charm bracelet} // my fav {diptyque candle} // city pendant {necklace} // french inspired {fromage dish} // la mer {moisturizing cream} // le creuset signature round {french oven}.

Previous Gift Guides: Stocking Stuffers for Her, Stocking Stuffers for Him

2nd Day of Christmas: {Stocking Stuffers for Him}

Happy 2nd Day of Christmas! Today I am sharing one of my favorite lists I created, Stocking Stuffers for Him! I secretly love guy things and I love shopping for my guy more than I do for myself (which is a lot)... so putting this list together was pretty easy! Alejandro ended up loving everything on the list! He also gave me a few ideas that are not included below: a subscription to {ESPN insider} or a subscription to {Spotify} would be fun additions to any man's stocking. Happy Shopping!

Starting top left: a {ticket stub diary} for all of his special games or concerts // happy feet {catch all} for his change or anything else from his pockets // {whiskey cubes} for his drinks {similar} // ESPN {30 for 30 DVDs} // super cute wall mounted {bottle opener} // preppy jack spade {key chain} // portable {wooden speaker} for his phone // every man loves bacon {balm} // warm {gloves} that he can still text in // juniper ridge {soap} // cozy j.crew {fairisle hat} // bottoms up! {leather flask} // water or soup {thermos} because it's getting cold outside // mustache {ornament} // timex {watch straps} - one for everyday // man can {candles} (camp fire scent is a fav) // striped {backup battery} for his iPhone 4/4s.

Previous Gift Guides: Stocking Stuffers for Her

1st Day of Christmas: {Stocking Stuffers for Her}

Happy Cyber Monday! I am so excited to launch my second annual {12 Days of Christmas Series}! For twelve days, you are going to get enough gift ideas to fill all of your shopping lists, plus more! I seriously had the best time ever putting these together, I wish I could share all 12 with you right now... but I'll be patient! :) Since stockings are pretty much my favorite thing ever, I am starting the series off with Stocking Stuffers for Her. Check back tomorrow for the counterpart - Stocking Stuffers for Him! xo.

Starting top left: colorful {lipstick crayons} // a diamond {ring usb} // festive {hair ties} - more colors {here} // super cute heart {chalk card} set // dotted {backup battery} for her iPhone 4 or 4s // love, love, love the {madewell rings} for only $10 // my favorite 'get it done' {rifle paper notepad} // the best indulgence - {hand cream} // essie 'snap happy red' {nail polish} // colorful {straws} for a grande starbucks tumbler // kate spade {thermos} for warm soup // {bow keychain} for her keys // seize the day {paperweight} // travel {jewelry case} *obsessed! // fun {headphones} for her music.

Psst... a few of the items above can be purchased at {Kate Spade}... head on over there today for the surprise {Cyber Monday Sale}... it's a good one, up to 75% off!

Cyber Monday Deals

It's my favorite day of the year! Cyber Monday!! And... I've officially just finished my holiday shopping! Good thing... since my {christmas tree} is in desperate need of some gifts underneath it! ;) Since I spent the majority of the morning (before heading off to work) scoping out the best Cyber Monday Deals (for the stores I shop at), I thought I would compile a list for you! Happy, Happy Shopping!! xo.

 

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{Anthropologie} is offering free shipping on all orders // {ASOS} has 30% off everything using code CYBERMONDAYSPECIAL // {Banana Republic} is offering 30% off everything using code CYBER // {Bauble Bar} is offering a free gift for every $40 purchase // {Bloomingdales} $50 off when you spend $250 // {C.Wonder} 50% off sale, 30% off full price and free shipping // {Free People} is offering 20% off sale items and free shipping on all orders // {Forever 21} up to 70% off and free shipping using code CYBERMON // {Gap} is offering 30% off everything using code CYBER // {J.Crew} is offering 25% off everything and free shipping using code MONDAY // {Kate Spade} has a surprise cyber sale up to 75% // {Madewell} has 25% off everything and free shipping using code TREAT // {Net-A-Porter} save up to 50% off on the best designers // {Nordstrom} up to 50% off sale as well as a variety of cyber monday deals for women and men // {Old Navy} is offering 30% off everything using code CYBER // {Piperlime} has 20% off everything using code CYBER // {Saks 5th Avenue} save up to 40% off on select designers // {Sephora} is offering a mystery gift with any purchase // {Shopbop} has up to 35% off your order using code BIGEVENT12 // {Target}'s deals are some of the best // {Top Shop} free shipping on all orders // {Tory Burch} up to 30% off with code GIFTFORYOU

Friday's Fancies: {Black Friday}

It's officially Black Friday... and you know what that means - cra-cray shoppers everywhere! :) And... I am absolutely not one of them!! I like my shopping to be a little more relaxed and low key... like in my pajamas, in front of my computer! :) But, in honor of this kind of official shopping holiday, I have put together some black + cream inspiration -

1 // 2 // 3 // 4

...that first outfit is so simple, yet, so chic and polkadots + leopard? A match made in heaven! :) Here is my version of black + cream for this week's {friday's fancies} - a little bit fancier than my usual, casual looks:

peplum top // rag & bone blazer // chanel bracelet // black denim // tuxedo pumps

Almost everything in my dreamy outfit above can be purchased at {Shopbop} who is currently having their Big Event through Monday, November 26th! Check it out:

Fun fact: Did you know that the term 'Black Friday' originated in Philadelphia! Pretty cool.

Thankful

Happy Thanksgiving!!! I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe holiday! Enjoy all of the delicious food, company, football, dessert, leftovers and early Black Friday shopping... but please, don't forget to take a moment and remember a couple of things you are thankful for! I will too.

but really, there is always, always, always something to be thankful for! 

Enjoy! xxoo. 

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Tuesday Tablescape: {Thanksgiving Edition}

Happy almost Thanksgiving!! While I have never been a lover of "fall decorations" or Thanksgiving decor... I fell in love with the table below! Seriously, this image makes me want to host a dinner party, maybe a Friendsgiving party, next year!

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From afar, the table looks pretty simple. But close up you can see that it has {oreo turkey pops} - ahh-mazing, {no-bake salted caramel cheesecake} - ahh-mazing, and {candy corn cones} - amazing! ;)

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Just a little shout-out that all of these images are from one of my most favorite blogs, {brit+co}. For the most creative DIY, check out her blog {here}... but please don't blame me if you are lost on her site for hours! Have a happy turkey day!! xo.

Giveaway: {Monogrammed Throw Pillow}

Since it is the week of Thanksgiving, I thought it was most appropriate to say thank you to YOU! It means so much to me that you stop by daily to catch up with me! Your comments, tweets, personal emails make me smile and I'm so happy to have connected with each of you! To show my appreciation, I have partnered with Sue from {The Zhush} to offer one reader of a {little} dash of ash the opportunity to win a monogrammed throw pillow! These adorable pillows caught my attention when browsing her shop months ago and I am so excited that one of you will be able to add it to your home. Check out the details below... there are even more ways than normal to win this one! :)

The giveaway will begin on Monday, November 19th and end on Saturday, November 24th. The winner will be announced via twitter on Sunday, November 25th.  Please use the rafflecopter form below to enter.  And, again, thank you for stopping by! Have a Happy Thanksgiving!! xo.

To see other items from Zhush, check out the shop {here}! It's a favorite!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

this giveaway is a $75 value. available colors for giveaway include: cobalt, grey, white, grey chevron & yellow chevron. navy linen is not available for giveaway, but can be purchased here. higher value monograms or threads are not available for giveaway. thank you for entering!

Pretty in Pink

We were all about fall colors (hey, burgundy) and now we are all about the Holidays, so it was a little refreshing to come across some bright pink! I can't get enough of those perfect pink bar stools... and that gigantic bow, omg, love. Cameron Diaz can do no wrong, even in all pink. And, creativity DOES rule. Here's a little pink to brighten your day! xo.

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And... for a lovely lady in your life, why not surprise her with a little pink this year?! I definitely wouldn't mind opening something this fun and bright! How about you?

{Kate Spade iPhone Case} {Sperry Boots} {Recipe Box} {Pink Blazer}

Nail Polish Advent Calendar

A nail polish countdown until Christmas? Umm... YES, Please! I'm really, really crossing my fingers that this shows up underneath my tree before December 1st so I can have a fun little countdown AND pretty nails every day until Christmas! ;) Santa... I believe!!

Ciaté 'Mini Mani' Set

Getting Cozy with Cream + Grey

Tis the season for gift guides galore! And... {J.Crew} just launched their 101 Gift Ideas -- all of which are absolutely fabulous! I seriously glanced at all 101 items and then went to the store this weekend to see how fabulous they really are in real life! :) The cozy cream + grey gifts really caught my attention...

 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8

Are you guys ready for the holidays yet? I am so ready!! I've actually already started [almost finished] my holiday shopping... and I have been busy making holiday gift guides to share with you! Last year some of my favorite bloggers participated in my {12 Days of Christmas} series. Their lists were a hit and I had so much fun putting together my own wishlist, so I have decided to do 12 Day's again!! But, this time I'll be putting together all 12 lists for the many different people on your shopping list! Save the Date for Monday, November 26th... 12 Day's of Christmas starts a week early this year! :)

PS. If you are shopping before the 26th, check out my many {wishlists} to help give you ideas! xo.

Secret Boards on Pinterest - Finally!

That's right! Pretty much the moment that almost all Pinterest users have been waiting for is finally here - {Secret Boards}! And... just in time for the holidays! :) Before today, Pinterest has only had public boards that could be seen by all of your friends, family and anyone else who follows you. BUT, what if you were planning a surprise party? Or were pinning potential holiday gifts? Maybe you just aren't ready to share a board with the public yet? I know as a blogger, sometimes I want to keep hush, hush about a future blog post.... Well, starting now, {Pinterest} is allowing users to create up to 3 secret boards. And the boards don’t have to be secret just to you – you can invite friends and family to collaborate on a board as well. Here’s how it works:

So easy!! Awesome, right?! And yes, your secrets can go mobile on both iPhone and Android! :)

Ps. Right now, you can’t make existing boards secret because others people may have already repinned from your board... No worries, you can pin to your new secret board from your other board. Happy Secret Pinning! ;) xo.

Giveaway: {Printed Cashmere Scarf}

It's officially November and it's officially freezing outside! Ok, not freezing, but definitely cold enough to bundle up in a winter jacket and a warm, cozy scarf... so I am extra excited for today's giveaway! :) I have teamed up with {Subtle Luxury} to giveaway one printed cashmere scarf ($225 value) to one lucky reader of a {little} dash of ash! This black and white printed scarf is not only gorgeous and super soft, it's classic and can be worn indoors or out... dressed up or casual! Loving versatile pieces like this lately. Check out the details below:

Please enter the giveaway via the Rafflecopter form below. If you have any questions at all, feel free to {email me}.  And... as always, thank you so much for stopping by my blog! Lots of love.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Warby Parker Class Trip

Yesterday I stopped by the {Warby Parker} school bus that was visiting Philadelphia on their "Class Trip" roadtrip! Ever since I first heard the Warby Parker story, I loved the brand. Four Wharton MBA students (where Alejandro goes to school) started this company as an alternative to the $300+ designer glasses that were already on the market (all of their glass are only $95)... even better, for every pair sold, they donate a pair to someone in need. Amazing, right? And... even better than that, their glasses are super cute. Love their aesthetic... vintage inspired with a fun contemporary twist!

I brought along my camera and snapped some photos then tried on glasses after glasses until I found the perfect pair! Even Alejandro tried on glasses... but he made me promise those photos would never make its way to the internet! ;) Little does he know, I love him in glasses... and see them in his future! Anyway, after trying on a dozen pairs... I finally found the perfect shape for me!

Meet {The Ainsworth}... The description on the website: Bookish and refined, Ainsworth travels easily from classroom to garden party. The pitch-perfect rounded edges make it ideal for work and play alike. I really, really like garden parties, so confirmed, these glasses are perfect for me! ;)

Guess what!? Philadelphia was only the third stop on their roadtrip, so you might be able to catch them in your own city (schedule below)! But, if not... their online ordering is amazing! They have this awesome home try on program... pick 5 glasses you would like to try, they ship them off to you (for free), try on, send back, and order your favorite pair. That easy! :) Check them out {here}!

Friday's Fancies: {Sweater Season}

Happy Friday! Today's {Friday's Fancies} theme is 'sweater season' - my favorite! Throwing on an over-sized sweater with skinny jeans and boots is as easy as putting on pajamas... no thought needs to go into it and it will keep you warm and stylish! Below are a couple sweaters I am loving from {Madewell}... two different sweaters, one of everything else. 

chevron sweater // thermal sweater // skinny jeans // fringe booties // wallet // rings // scarf

Isn't that {chevron sweater} amazing? I might have to pick it up for Thanksgiving... I feel like it will allow me to eat for days! :) Oh, and I have to give a little shout out to my old company, A&F... their sweaters are gorgeous this fall and even better, sans-moose! I'm so lucky one of my good friends just sent me a few of these cozy beauties as a gift! Thank you, Thank you!! :)

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Currently Loving ♥

Happy November!! Since it's a new month... and a month specifically for shopping, I thought I would share some of my current obsessions! Cap toe pumps, cashmere socks and those fun rhinestone rings (in every single color please) are just a few of the items on my wishlist! But, I also had to share my favorite booties that I wear almost every day... they are the best ever! Oh, and Kate... your adorable bow usb is ahh-mazing! :) xo.

 cap toe pumps // kate spade usb bow // cashmere heart socks // j.crew fairisle sweater // cityblock storyteller scarf // rhinestone stretch ring // the ropes bracelet // sam edelman suede booties // olive handknit fairisle mittens

Happy Halloween!

I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe Halloween! I'm not doing anything too fun tonight... just avoiding candy and going to yoga after 4 days of being inside eating pizza, chips and a years worth of reese's peanut butter cups (seriously, its my weakness)! I am also pretty excited to see my Facebook newsfeed tonight with all of my friend's kiddos dressed up in cute costumes (wow, I'm old)! Enjoy! xo.

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Shorts + Tights

Happy Wednesday! I'm back at work today and I'm really hoping all of my NYC friends are back with power / internet / blog access! :) Wow - I can't remember the last time I had a few days off of work when I had absolutely nothing to do. I always use my vacation days for traveling, never just sitting at home relaxing. It was amazing... I think I'll save a day or two next year to do just that! During my time off I browsed {pinterest} and {tumblr} for hours... conclusion: I am completely inspired by shorts with tights! I know this look isn't anything new, but its the first time that it caught my attention. What do you think?

images 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

[Sandy] Survival Essentials

This was definitely not a planned blog post... but since I was off of work yesterday and they have shut down the city today, I thought I would share my "survival kit" with you! First, I can't believe this is the second hurricane I am experiencing in Philly. I never thought I had to worry about hurricanes when I moved here a little over a year ago.  Remember my {hurricane weekend} last year? This time we are being a little more pro-active. We are stocked up on essentials... you know, water, wine and reese's pb cups... and are staying inside so we don't blow away! Below is everything you need to survive a hurricane. Oh, and PS. I didn't include an umbrella... because there is no need for one. Both mine and Alejandro's broke as soon as we went out this morning! Yikes! **Disclaimer: I didn't include anything for a real survival... because those items are just a given! These are extras. :)

rain jacket // diptyque candle // marc jacobs iPad case // hunter rainboots // wine glass // wine opener // blanket // pillow

Ohio Photo Sessions [Sneak Peak]

Last weekend when I was in Ohio I scheduled fall mini sessions with some of my favorite kiddos! I only took a few sessions since we had a some other plans for the weekend... so I can't wait to catch up with the rest of you next time I am in town! :) First up... Nolan.  You may remember him {here}, {here} and {here}... and man, is he growing up fast! Love that first photo of him... he is all smiles! Oh, and he had big news for me too... he is going to be a big brother in April!! :)

Let me introduce you to Nolan's cousins! Big sister Naomi and triplets, Olivia, Ella, and Nora! Seriously, the sweetest and most adorable family ever! How stinking cute are their outfits? And... I am so happy we got one of each of them by the same lighted tree! Love.

This handsom little man was my model {a year ago}... and he is still posing up a storm! He had no trouble telling me who was boss and where he wanted to take his photo at! :) As long as I listened to him, I got smiles... so I am cool with that! ;) So cute, Carson!

Last, I took engagement photos for my very good friends, Abbey and Adam! We took these photos in the evening and in the pouring rain! They were under an umbrella, I was under an umbrella, we had to use flash photography (which is never my favorite)... but we made it work and there are some great photos! Just one below... because I want them to be the first to share their favorites! xo.