This week I was able to sneak out of mom-mode for a few really fun business ventures at the new SoNo Collection mall in Norwalk. And it was just what the doctor ordered.

Wednesday night I attended an opening dinner for the new Bloomingdale’s hosted by Juliska. It was so nice to get out and see the beautiful new space; and to socialize with some of my favorite local ladies. Even if I was up way past my bedtime.

Thursday morning I brought the babe along with me to check out H&M before its grand opening, and to watch the ribbon cutting ceremony. I had the best time perusing the store, trying a few things on, and getting lost in their stunning {slash dangerous} home section. You can find everything I came home with here.

I had expected to get right back into the groove of partnerships and events after Lila was born, but it has taken me a little bit longer than anticipated. Most days are spent soaking in the baby snuggles in sweat pants covered in spit up. And that’s totally OK by me. But it was so nice to get dressed up and dip my toe back into blogging life, if only for a bit.

Here are a few of my favorites from the week:

One.

The Planner / I’ve been a planner geek for years. Even in college, when putting your appointments and tasks into iCal became all the rage, I remained true to pen and paper. There’s something so satisfying about physically crossing something off my To-Do lists. And every year around this time, I get super excited about finding my planner for the coming year. My clean slate. This year I opted for a hard cover version from Rifle Paper Company. It’s intentionally smaller than the ones I’ve used in the past, so I can easily fit it in my purse for daily use. And the floral print is just so pretty.

two.

The Smoky Margarita / A few weeks ago I tried out a few libations from our local South Bay on the Avenue. My friend raved about their cocktails, and their Mezcal margarita did not disappoint. I still have yet to try their food, but those smoky margs definitely have me wanting to go back.

three.

The Color Queen / I’m an admitted psychopath when it comes to avoiding all toxins and chemicals when pregnant. And, as a result, I left my hair completely alone in terms of color and highlights for the last year or so. So after Lila was born, I immediately scheduled an appointment with Connie Fusaro at Salan H. This past weekend I went for round two of postpartum highlights- this time for balayage. And I just love how Connie has gradually taken my color from SUPER dark to subtly sun-kissed. If you want to check out her masterpieces follow along with her on Instagram here.

four.

The Holiday Door Mat / I’m not quite sure why it’s taken me so long to invest in a good ole’ fashion Christmas doormat, but I found the perfect one a few days ago and I can’t wait for it to arrive. I was between this “Merry Christmas Ya Filthy Animals” version and a “You Serious, Clark” one. I went with the former, but honestly you can’t go wrong either way.

five.

The $69 Dress You Need / Every now and then I find a Zara dress that just really delivers. I found this silky black version a few weeks ago and I’ve already worn it a handful of times. The drape is so flattering and comfy; and it can so easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. I wore it again a few days ago to the Bloomingdales x Juliska dinner- this time paired with leopard block heels- and it was so perfect.

photos by Julia Dags