Neha Leela

When I think of masking tape, I find it to be synonymous with childhood and crafts projects.  Rebecca Ward takes that simplicity and playfulness, and adds to it with structure, dimension and pattern to create bold installations.  That ensemble is without a doubt familiar to Kate Spade, whose collections without fail share a similar energy and tastefulness.  

I fell in love with their collaboration on the Broome Street flagship store that transformed an already striking space into a display of happy colors and lines.  

They feted on February 17th, inviting guests to peruse and play.   Just flipping through party photos got me antsy for the spring… and shopping.  

image credit: katespade.com

For a girl that does everything in her power to avoid being caught in the rain in fear of looking like a drenched cocker spaniel,  this weather is somewhat of a guilty pleasure. There’s a suburban smell that infuses the city, the brute force of the wind turns covered walkways into shared shelter for strangers and the violent swells of sound  give normally aloof city dwellers and colleagues something to bond over.

But before any of this conjures up images of me frolicking in the rain with newfound friends or as the poster child for Hunter boots, I’ll underscore that my beloved benefit to these stormy days is the bliss of excusable respite from the normal frenzy.

Theres a romantic leisure and luxe relaxation that is the true silver lining, that I’m very much looking forward to this weekend and wishing you the same.

P.S. Though the rain is soundtrack enough, I can’t get enough of Ingrid Michaelson and Joshua Radin pairing on sky.

image credit: irene suchocki

So is opting for the white rice sushi instead of depriving yourself and going for the brown.  Enjoying an ounce of dark chocolate. Or leaving your mouth in the shape its in after saying “cheez whiz”.    

These being only a few of the gems from the New York Magazine’s feature with nuggets of enlightenment from the experts on the pursuit of happiness and the simple ways to attain it.  

Some of these are effective, others more entertaining, a few are a tad excessive. But each have worked for at least one person.

image credit: hartini

‘Tis the hallmark holiday season.  Sarcasm aside, these images from Irene Suchoki make such sweet Valentines day (or every day)  cards. Find this lovely photo at her Etsy shop.  Sorry hallmark.