christmas tree, o christmas tree

last weekend, T and i got together with m&j to pick out our christmas tree, and i couldn't have been more excited! as long as i can remember, i've loved going out to the local tree farm with my family to find our tree. and ever since T and i have been together, we've adopted this into our own mini tradition complete with hot cocoa, lots of layers (clothing), and christmas music. 

[getting drinks with m&j to help warm up pre-tree]

oh, and did i mention that m&j just got engaged over the weekend as well? we couldn't be happier for these two, and cannot wait for the epic day that will be their wedding next year!

[love these igloos]

[bruce, the pug, was unimpressed in the shops]

[sock monkey for wine bottles]

after a bit of serious tree debating, we found this year's tree, george! so, we brought him home and dressed him up...and it was probably one of my favorite things we've done in our new home as a family :)

cositas

[messy lasagna...so good]

like so many i know, i love christmastime! i just love being able to listen to my holiday-themed music unapologetically all month long with no judgment :) 

T and i just picked up our christmas tree yesterday and i can't wait to decorate it, and our home tonight. have a great week everyone!

[funky berries]

[apple dumplings, oh my yum]

[an afternoon at the laundromat]

[blood orange margarificos]

[playing peek-a-boo with our office pup]

travel bug: chicago

sorry for the break in posts, T and i went with my parents last week to visit family in chicago and since we've been back, have been a bit busy playing catch-up...but, i suppose that's what taking a week long vacation will do to ya! plus, the pups have been nothing short of expressive in their complaints about us not taking them with ;)

not only is chicago one of my favorite cities to visit but, i seriously adore spending time with my family up there. it was a great week filled with lots of amazing sights, sounds, people, and food. so, without further ado, enjoy!

the eats...

[the infamous onion brick]

[these ribs were too good]

[respective cocktail hours above and below]

[pretzel bites - a new favorite for me]

[delicious dim sum in chinatown]

[deep dish pizza because...wait, do you need a reason?]

[wine, pasta, and dessert (below)]

[great taco combos]

[new favorites in donut combos]

on foot...

[cobblestone walkways]

[i just love grey days here]

[checking out old town]

chinatown markets]

[seeing my aunt's neighborhood]

[karma]

[hanging downtown]

[love going on foot here]

[sunset-evening walks]

the extras...

[too many spices to count]

[my hunky mister]

[color the rainbow]

[arcade hall and bar, how awesome!]

[my grandparents' dog topper, he's quite the cuddle bug]

[street art]

[freshly made bread...is there any better smell?]

[staying warm while a little snow mix blows through]

[waiting for the el]

[my adorable parents]

[hello kitty snow beanie?! yes please!]

[starry night]

[new material night]

[family traditions]

[hanging in my dad's old haunt]

[quality time with my cute cousins]

[what a sweet face]

[the sweetest and sassiest of cousins]

[christmas time is now here!!]