Summer Lovin’

How’s your summer going? Can you believe July is nearly over? I’ve gotta get in my sunny days in while I can!

Here are some things I’m loving right now…

collage fav july

1. This baby shower tablecloth is so cute.

2. I must have this gold {temporary} tattoo.

3. Chocolate potato chips? Yes please!

4. I adore this 40th birthday. It gives me ideas for a future party for my hubby…

5. Tiny gift parade. {this has made the rounds, but I love gifts!}

6. Candy necklace napkin ring. So colorful and fun for summer.

What are you loving this summer?

Happy Mothers’ Day!

I am lucky enough to have two amazing Mothers in my life– my mom and mother-in-law. Both women are supportive, caring, and loving to both of us. These women have raised thoughtful, creative children with an interest in the world, who were lucky enough to find each other. Our mothers have cheered us along our journey, while continuing to learn and grow themselves. They are both amazing examples of Motherhood and I hope some day to measure up.

collage air plant

 

These amazing plants were our gifts to our mothers’ present this year, from Bird and Feather Co.  I thought they were colorful, modern and playful and I could imagine both of my moms with this cool accessory in their homes. Even if the plant dies, they still have a cute bowl. Adorable side note: I asked Bird and Feather Co to include a note, and each mom mentioned how the handwriting matched mine. Cute coincidence. 🙂

Much Love to my two amazing moms– and all the moms out there.

Thoughtful Encounters

Lately, I’ve come to realize how much I value thoughtfulness. I’ve always recognized thoughtfulness, both having it and the absence of it, but not given it much weight past that. But it’s becoming clear to me how important it is.

My very favorite yoga teacher is here in Hong Kong. She has been my instructor since 2005 and I have never found another yoga teacher, here or across the US, that approaches her style. Her classes are well planned, leading from one posture to another, preparing you for the next one. Her style is calming and encouraging, accepting and kind, but the attention she puts into the class flow is really what draws me in.

It really hit me with our recent trip to Bali. We stayed in this little boutique hotel in Ubud called The Purist. With only seven rooms, their attention to detail was incredible. In fact, I’m not big on tipping generally, but there we did, as the service was that outstanding. The staff remembered our preferences and took care of our every need. They greeted us by name, made arrangements for us outside of their normal schedules and made us feel special. And their beautiful setting didn’t hurt.

purist 3 purist

 

I try to remember this when planning an event as well. It’s not about how much you spend, or if all of your decorations are the same colors. It’s the thoughtful touches that really make your party memorable. Maybe it’s wraps on the back of the chairs in case guests get cold. Maybe it’s cold towels on hand on a hot day. Or maybe it’s even as simple as a bowl to toss your olive pits. Those details are the ones that make guests feel cared for and special. And, really, isn’t that what we all want?

Travel Lust

In the last 2 weeks I’ve been to Singapore and Manila. In the next 2 weeks I’m going to Bali and Tokyo. Half for work, half for fun, my travel schedule (and passport!) is full.

While I’ll be the first to admit that traveling is tiring, and can wear me out (particularly for work, what’s that about?), I gotta admit I’m pretty lucky. I’m a bit of a wanderlust to begin with, and I love going new places and meeting new people. Often roles in Asia are regional, so traveling is a part of life. Then you add on public holidays with amazing nearby destinations, and you end up with a life full of beautiful memories and a battered suitcase. Just another reason that this place is my home.

collage globe

 

Thinking I might need this cork globe to keep track of it all.

Singapore, Manila, Bali and Tokyo images.

A wonderful quote.

Gold and Red Love Party

A couple of girlfriends got engaged recently so I thought I’d put together a pre-drink and snacks before our brunch plans. Since this set-up was intended to celebrate love, this could easily be used for Valentine’s Day.

As we were headed out for a meal directly after, I kept the drinks and food light– but big on style and theme. DSC_0490

I used my favorite gold polka dot plates with gold napkins tied with red twine and created seating cards with a “lucky in love” motif.

DSC_0496

I added a little guava juice and a mint sprig to the prosecco to freshen it up a bit, and give it that “love” color. Some chocolate heart shaped cookies in a gold polka dotted glass added to the fun.

DSC_0505

Apparently, finding flowers after CNY is an impossible task, so I went with the edible centerpiece instead. The cookies were really tasty with the strawberries and raspberries from red striped and polka dot bowls.

DSC_0500

DSC_0508

Lastly, I put together little take away {with little chocolate} that fit the theme.

DSC_0518

The girls were really touched and after some snacks we took off for a yummy brunch. Maybe I’ll have to recreate this in a few weeks! 🙂