In the Trenches.

Guys, I made a purchase today...

{I am in love} 

I've been coveting a trench for years but haven't been willing to commit to the price tag a good trench normally carries. When I saw this one hanging on the wall at Forever 21, I knew I had to have it. Not only was it a great price but the little ruffle made it irresistible to me! I've recently realized that I'm drawn to classic items with a little twist. Like this living room

I love the classic neutrals mixed with the bright pops of blue and red. It's quite lovely, don't you think? 

{image via design sponge}

Eggplanted.

My last trip to the St. Paul farmer's market was simply an excuse to get together with my aunt for a morning of catching up and enjoying the splendid Minnesota weather while it lasts. My purchases included another fresh bouquet (sadly, this one didn't last more than a couple of days and a lone perky sunflower is all that is left on my windowsill) a baguette, and some sweet corn. My crown jewel purchase, however, was an eggplant. Mind you I had absolutely no idea what to do with an eggplant, but the perfectly shaped, perfectly purple little vegetable wouldn't let me walk away without it.
I spent some time sorting through all of the grilled eggplant, roasted eggplant, eggplant parmigiana recipes until I found this little gem: Stuffed Eggplant with Shrimp and Basil. Seeing as I have a basil plant threatening to outgrow it's second pot, this was absolutely perfect. It was flavorful and simple to prepare. Even though I have to admit that I will definitely cut the amount of breadcrumbs next time, there will be a next time for this dish.

And now, some more eggplant flavored treats currently asking me to bring them home.
I'm convinced I would be uber productive if this were my work space.

Room lust

I'm moving to a new apartment in a few weeks and as a result I have found myself obsessively reading design blogs and magazines searching for inspiration to make my new apartment feel a bit more "grown-up." I came across this image on Avant Garde. Have you ever seen a room more me????

I think not.