rainrain

It's been raining all day and it rilly rilly makes me wish I'd snagged Hunter Boots when they were on sale yesterday on Gilt.

Sigh.

via gilt

the power of the rain

What's worse than being caught in the rain unexpectedly [i.e. no boots or umbrella]?

Being caught in the rain with no boots, umbrella, or cell.

Or, for that matter, being caught anywhere without your cell.

Presenting Orange's Power Wellies.

The boots have a power generating sole that converts heat generated from your feet into an electrical current. After 12 hours of walking, the boots will provide enough power to charge a mobile phone for one hour.

And if one hour isn't quite enough, just add a little pep to your step - the more heat generated, the more power provided.

I might still opt for Hunter's when it comes down to it, but I can't deny the practicality of these wellies...

Photo via mashable

lust list: practically impractical

Although I began debating what color Hunter wellies to buy in February and was coming close to a decision by March, I never ended up purchasing them.

I didn't feel right about it since I don't live in a walking city.  I made a deal with myself that if I move to Chicago or New York, or another walking city, I could buy them.  I also decided that in the unlikely event that I move to Seattle, I can buy multiple pairs.

But, here I am, in a driving city, with my black rain boots packed away, deep in my closet.

Thus, Hunter's are simply lust-worthy, but not yet worth buying...

PS: I have to add that I became less enamored by them when Emily told me the sock inserts don't stay put. That's half the appeal!

One more thing - if you're looking for an alternative to Hunter's (not that I need another type of rain boots to adore), check out Loeffler Randall's new rain boots and rain booties. They look uncannily similar to my dad's green hunting boots, but I kind of like them...

rain rain

After a full week of what has to have been one of Indiana's most beautiful springs, I couldn't be happier. My skin is looking slightly sun-kissed and I feel rejuvenated after spending every free moment outside.

Unfortunately, today is overcast, with rain in our future. But as long as it's out of here by the weekend, I'm OK with it. Of course, it makes it almost impossible not to think about Hunter's... Photo via apartment #34

Under the umbrella tree

It's National Umbrella Month and today's thunderstormy weather is the perfect opportunity to celebrate.

Along with my love for Hunter's is my love for umbrellas*. There are a few keys to successful umbrella-ing.

The first is that the umbrella is sturdy. It's the worst when you're caught in a storm and it flips inside out and breaks. Or, when you pull it out of your tote and it won't open at all.

Davek umbrellas are durable and come with a lifetime guarantee. They're offered in a variety of sizes and colors, too. Who could be grumpy about the rain when carrying a kiwi umbrella?

The second key is that the umbrella doesn't ruin your outfit.

I love the Double Sided Lola Dot from Umbrellas.net. I have a real soft spot for secrets and I'd love to have a different pattern on the inside. You want to know what's under my umbrella? You'll have to share it with me...

And I'd be lying if I didn't admit that I love the Burberry Check Compact Umbrella. Flashy? Maybe. But with a black trench, like the Kenneth Cole New York Trapunto Stitched Coat, there's no denying you'd be fabulous.

*It's time to come clean. I don't just love umbrellas and rain boots. I love all accessories. Rainy day, sunny day, resort wear, office wear, indoor, outdoor - even camping. I love them all. This should be considered as you trust my judgement in the future.

April showers bring May flowers

March gives me hope. The abyss that is winter is coming to an end. The days are getting longer, the sun is getting brighter and the grass is getting greener.

And in addition to the more present sun (today for example) are the thunderstorms. They make me so giddy for summer storms. And they make me more productive. Stuck inside? Why not clean out a closet!?

However, for the days when I'm feeling less productive and more adventurous, it's fun to get out. There's something so invigorating about splashing through a big puddle in rain boots. I'm admittedly obsessed with Hunter Wellies. I keep going back and forth on what color to buy, which leads to more obsessing as I try to pick.

Practicality tells me to go with navy, as they would go with the opposite half of my wardrobe that my black rainboots go with. However, I also love red and turquoise - and graphite and violet and really all of them...

Hence, my struggle. However, even with this beautiful rainbow of options before me, there's no denying the pure joy that the Gold pair would bring. In these babies, you'd sparkle on a rainy day. You'd light up the street. You'd definitely show that deep puddle who's boss.

Oh, so many decisions.

is it spring yet?

I'm so ready for spring. I thought I'd make sure you're in the mood too. Some pretty inspiration...
Flowers and favors in one. Two of my favorite things. Host a fête and make your own!

Happy Hunter boots. They make even the rainiest spring days bright.

Adorable Social Climber Zipper Pouch. Definitely necessary for your first night out this spring.

Pinwheel treat bags for the littlest spring lovers in your life. Yum!


Cutie kids. Cutie shoes. Nothing like neon laces in Converses to get your spring on.