Back in January I mentioned I went to San Francisco to celebrate my friend Leah's 30th birthday. Leah is a big foodie and works in the culinary industry. Whenever we're together, we eat some of the most ridiculously amazing meals.

So, when a foodie has a milestone birthday, what better way to celebrate than with an incredible meal? With a personal chef. In your home. With some wonderful girlfriends. And lots of Napa Valley wine. Perfection!

1. Once upon a time (OMG - in August!) I talked about repainting our Master Bedroom. Mr. Fix-It wasn't entirely sold on the idea. I must have the patience of a saint because it's only taken 6 months for him to come around. We've bought paint and everything! It's really happening!


In case you forgot, here's the look we're going for:

I love the way you look at me.

(And for a million other reasons, too.)

The best is yet to be. xoxo

As mentioned earlier this week, I've been wanting to catch you up on photos from recent events. Being late is a slippery slope - once too much time has passed it starts to feel like "why bother?" Is 6 weeks too late for a Christmas Recap? - probably.

So, my parents and sister joined us for Christmas in Chicago. We snuggled in to our cozy condo (certainly not intended to house 5 - but we made it work!) and combined traditions from both sides of the family. We spent Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with Mr. Fix-Its family. We included my family's lobster on Christmas Eve tradition too - bumping it one day early so as not to miss out.

1. We hosted a little Super Bowl party last night! It was lots of fun to hang with some good friends and eat gobs of delicious food. Mr. Fix-It made his famous chili, I baked and cooked a little, and friends brought yummy treats. So fun!

Also, since we were hosting more than our typical seating can fit, I proposed that we bring the guest room sofa into the main room. It was so nice to have such a big, cushy area. I'm also in no hurry to move everything back. I'm big on sprawling out.