Theory of Relativity

Looking back on recent years, there are so many times that I was pushing to get through days, weeks, and months. Time stood still, it seemed. But now, I'm in awe that we're closing out July. It felt like just yesterday that I was under heated blankets and lacing up snow boots (to be fair, it snowed here until May or something... but still). In the past year, I've been fill with so much excitement and eagerness for each project, that the calendar has flown by while I wasn't looking.

You've Got Nail 41

I've been loving minimal nails as of late. Honestly, I've been so busy (hence my recent accidental hiatus) that I've barely had any time to do more than an ulta-minimal manicure. Truth be told, I feel like I've been leaning this way for quite some time. The single line black and nude is such an easy design to do at home!

Chinatown

Last week we ventured down to Chinatown for lunch and the obvious stop at adorable candy stores.

Red Hot

Summer is in full force right now — life is busy and life is good. This week officially marks my one year anniversary of full-time-blogger status and I'm pretty proud of it.

The Closer I Get

Have you ever watched Morrissey videos where Moz carries flowers (or sometimes, what seems to be an entire bush) in his back pocket. I also noticed that he wore a lot of necklaces around his belt loop. So, uh, I have been sort of copying his look.

July Wishlist // Sofas

There aren't many things on my wishlist this month — I'm feeling pretty content. Alas, there is something that I have been meaning to replace for ages: My sofa. Sofas are so tricky. I'm picky about the style and the color (sort of) and they can get expensive fast. A lot of affordable sofas aren't made worth a damn and finding a vintage one in good condition is a chore (don't get me started on the fear of bedbugs from Craigslist). The one I have currently is a new mid-century knock off from Target. It's maybe only about three years old, but its the most uncomfortable sofa I've ever owned. What can ya do?

What's In My Bag // The Beach

I love the beach. It doesn't matter if it's Lake Michigan beaches here in Chicago (which, for those of you who aren't aware, are actually really awesome!) or an ocean beach. Or heck, Blue Hole in Jersey (I miss that place!) or the Dunes in Michigan. Beaches are my jam.

Silver Screen Style // The Muppets

Okay, so this edition of Silver Screen Style is a little more general than usual. The Muppets have had multiple movies over the years — so it's tough to pick just one. What it all comes down to is that I love the Muppets. I will go see any movie that they come out with. And at the end of the day, I identify more with Miss Piggy than any other character. So, hey, let's get our Muppet on.

What's In My Bag // Cycling + ModCloth and Herschel Giveaway!

In a perfect world, I would carry as little as possible while on my bike. But the reality is, I normally need to take a few things with me, even if it is a little joy ride — you know, for safety's sake. For years I've been using a TimBuk2 messenger bag that I bought wayyy back when I worked for Apple. Recently, I posted about my desire to switch to a backpack — and ModCloth and Herschel sent me over this great Out In The Field backpack. The best part is that it looks like a knapsack but has the padded straps of a backpack. Best of both worlds!

Skort and Sweet

I haven't owned a skort since, ermmm, maybe the 6th grade. I remember that I had this one I loved. It was neon green and I always wore it with a yellow and white striped baby tee. Basically I looked like a tiny spokesperson for Sprite. In my head, I thought I looked like a Spice Girl.

Sweet Treats

I have a total sweet tooth. Anyone who follows me on Twitter knows that I'm constantly craving donuts. It's a, err, problem. Recently I found out that Stan's Donuts has donut gelato. AKA the best of both worlds.

What's your favorite summer sweet treat?

Weekstagram // July 6

I'm super excited to announce that this week, I'm doing a fun project with Modcloth — something that means you can win a super cool prize while sharing your fun summer photos! All you've gotta do is follow along with Mini Penny and Modcloth on Instagram for the Seven Days of #ModSummer and join in. I'm looking forward to see what you all share for the daily prompts. Feel free to share your Instagram handle in the comments.

Follow Mini Penny on Instagram at @minipennyblog.

You've Got Nail 40

Happy Independence Day, America! It's been a little while since I did a nail post, so I figured I'd go the patriotic route with my nails this weekend. USA! USA!

What's In My Bag // The Gym

Packing for the gym is easy! Basically, on my commute to the gym, I wear my workout clothes and pack a bag to get me all set for the way home.

Ways To Wear It // Fourth of July

First of all — it's July already. This year is absolutely flying by. I hope all of my American followers have fun plans for the holiday weekend. It's a great time for cookouts and pool parties and road trips to the beach. Weather you want to go all-out patriotic or just wear the colors, here's how you can dress the part this weekend. Fireworks not included. (Above: Tattered flag scarf, Free People)