As I sit in front of my computer this morning and reflect on my weekend, I almost don’t know where to begin. I returned home last night from an amazing three days in Orlando, after attending the Food Blog Forum conference.

I’ve attended a number of blog conferences in the past, both large and small in size. Each time, I go in with the goal of taking away something at the end. It can be new technical knowledge for behind the scenes of my blog (I always want to learn a new skill or hear about a new tool)…it can be new connections with brands and companies…it can simply be inspiration.
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I love a simple cocktail. As fun as it is to sip on concoctions that combine countless ingredients and has an impressive presentation, when it comes to creating something in my home, I prefer simplicity.

Would you believe me if I told you I’d never tried a Paloma until a few weeks ago? Why did it take me so long?!!??! The name itself sounds so refreshing and lovely (Paloma means “dove” in Spanish, apparently), and the ingredients are all ones I enjoy.
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Folks: we’ve reached temperatures here in Florida that have officially made me retire my jeans and other heavy materials. I don’t think I’ll be seeing a weather report that requires their use for quite some time.

That means: shorts! I have been on a HUGE shorts kick in the past two years. I never used to wear them, and opted for dresses and skirts instead. However, I have embraced their versatility (and the ability to wear them almost in the same way as you would a skirt sometimes too) and the amazing array of choices available in stores right now.

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Do you love your hair?
That is the question I want you to answer. Do you embrace your hair for its texture, its color, its length, its style? All too often, I think it is easy to complain about our hair. I’m guilty of it as well – my fine/thin locks don’t like to hold a curl, and styling isn’t quite as “fun” as it could be if I happened to have some curl or volume. But, oh, how having a “good hair day” can transform my confidence level! Yes, the weather can play a part in that, but the products that I use with my hair also contribute.

ULTA Beauty’s Love Your Hair event is a 21-day celebration of hair, from May 12 through June 1 at ULTA Beauty. If you visit your local store, you can get involved with hair demos, prizes, and daily Beauty Steals™ – special offers on hair care products and tools. Some of these awesome events include free Redken Diamond Oil 5 Carat Finish with an appointment on 5/22 or 5/23, and Your Best Waves and Curls with Bed Head and Hot Tools on 5/14 from 4-8pm.

Now, I know I talk a lot about finding affordable style, but there are also times when splurging a bit is absolutely worth it. I wholeheartedly believe that is the case with your hair. Taking care of your locks with the proper products can not only make your hair look great, but can extend the time you need between salon visits. So, spending a little more money on your at-home hair care can actually save you money in the long run! Plus, having a good hair day every day isn’t such an awful thought, is it?
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