Homage to 'Make Way for Duckings'

 Sometimes it is fun to look back at the gorgeous illustrations from Boston's most iconic childrens' story.

- Cameron

Making Plans

Ok, so it's not technically summer for a few more weeks but in my opinion summer starts after Memorial Day. At work my mind is already racing with activities that I want to do this summer so I've started to set some goals to help me plan. On the blog we love setting goals (or resolutions) since they help us stay organized and it feels so awesome when you cross something off your list. As I've already got quite a few on my agenda for the 2014 year on this list, I'm adding just 4 more goals for Summer...as of now that is.

What are your plans this summer? Got something you think I should add? Share them with us via instagram and twitter!

- Suzanne

images: Girl  |  Surfboard  |  #Girlboss  |  Travel Bag

The Short Suit: Love It or Hate It?

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6

Given the ever-changing weather in New England, a gal must always plan to layer!  I've been spotting the short suit a lot lately, and although it's not an office work look, I love its comfy chic appearance, and matching really never goes out of style.  Plus, don't forget, each piece works well as separates, too!  Seems perfect for traveling.  What do you think?  Would you sport this look?

- Meredith

Who's That Gal: Team J and A

Tell us a bit about Team J + A. How did you get started?
We met each other while teaching Bikram yoga, and got to know each other better because we were both finishing nutrition school around the same time. We started studying together, and eventually, our study sessions became discussions about starting a detox program. At that point we both had other jobs, so the detox idea was pretty casual, but within the last year or two, we both decided to work full time at developing our 14 Day Detox Program.

What is the 14 Day Whole Food Detox?
Every season, we host an online, live, program - essentially, it is a course on clean cooking and eating. Its not paleo or vegan, though the program has elements of both, rather it’s a way of discovering what works best for you and what foods are right for your body. We provide grocery lists and recipes that make it easy to cook without any processed ingredients. For the entire two weeks, participants are off gluten, soy, corn, extra sugar, dairy, caffeine, and alcohol. By eliminating each of these elements, you’ll quickly discover where your body’s sensitivities lie. It may sound intimidating, but on the Whole Food Detox you can eat as much as you want, so you won’t feel as restricted as you might think.

As a  young business owners, what challenges have you faced in your industry and business in general?
Going from a corporate world, to working at home can feel pretty lonely. We’re lucky that we are doing this together. Working from home isn’t as glamorous as people imagine it to be. It’s equally as stressful as a corporate job because you have no excuses when you are answering to yourself.

Your motto is “Feel Something More,” how does your detox program promote this mission?
Feel something more really encapsulates the mission of the 14 Day Detox. There is more specific “this” or “that” expected result of the program, but you will feel better, and it really depends from person to person on what that is. You’ll feel better in your own body, have more energy, sleep better, and you’ll feel more in every aspect of your life.

How do you know if a detox program is right for you?
A seasonal detox can be right for anyone. People with certain eating disorders may want to avoid doing a detox, but otherwise, detoxing, especially as the seasons change, is often a healthy choice. Especially for people that already work out regularly and eat healthy, but don’t feel good – whether it be digestive issues, or general anxiety – a detox can really help.

What are the first steps someone should take when trying to “eat clean”?
Just be balanced and consistent. The main thing you can do to start feeling better on your own is to cook at home. It doesn’t matter what you cook per se, the first step is making your own food which automatically eliminates preservatives and other chemicals. It also saves you a bunch of money!

What is next for J + A? 
Our June detox is open for registration!
We’re also hoping to roll out a corporate wellness program to make it easier for people and companies to work together to get healthy. We will help design employee challenges and things like that.
And soon, we’d like to do a destination course / retreat. We’d take a class down to Mexico and do a combination of clean eating and transformational coaching!

Best meal in Boston: Myers & Chang

Favorite Boston hangout: I'm learning to salsa dance, and I also love going out to eat with my husband.

Best workout in Boston: Bikram!

Coffee or tea: Tea

Stripes or plaid: eh...neither.

Bike or walk: Walk. 

And because we’re a bookclub, what was the last book you read: I just finished Where'd You Go Bernadette, and now I'm reading The Language of Flowers.

Best meal in Boston: Casa B

Favorite Boston hangout: Havana in Central Sq - I love salsa dancing!

Best workout in Boston: Bikram

Coffee or tea: Tea

Stripes or plaid: Stripes

Bike or walk: Bike

And because we’re a bookclub, what was the last book you read: I'm working through The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert.

- Cameron

Summer's Best Swimsuits Under $100

Over the years I've developed this habit of only wearing basic triangle and solid bikinis. Perhaps it's a resistance to spending a lot of money on a suit or a fear that it won't flatter me, but this year there are so many patterns and styles I  don't think I can resist. 

As of late I'm loving the resurgence of sailor and preppy stripes like this adorable ruffled number from Top Shop, and this orange with cream piping is a pretty cute and mod twist of a basic suit from J.Crew. 

And have you been noticing that bikinis have begun a transformation and gotten longer in the ribcage area or higher up on the waist? While I'm not into the latter, I'm really digging the fuller bikini top like this paisley boho suit from Forever 21. 

And last but not least, everyone needs a little neon in their life. No further explanation needed. 

Have you picked out your new summer suit yet? What style are you into this year? I think one thing we can all agree on this year is the importance of sun protection. Don't forget to lather up before you suit up, and be cautious of what you're putting on your skin! Stay away from products with harmful toxins and try out one of our favorite sunscreen lines, Coola, instead. Coola's spray and lotion sunscreens are all organic which means no harmful chemicals are seeping into your skin. Added perk - they also go on matte which means you won't look greasy all day at the beach! 

Enjoy the warm weather, gals and be sure to follow us and all our summertime adventures on instagram! 

- Suzanne

This post is sponsored by Coola, organic sun care protection. Thank you, Coola!

The Week of May 26th

Happy Memorial Day, gals! I hope everyone is having a sun-filled, social-filled and safe Memorial Day in remembrance of the brave men and women who have served and protected our country.

Here's what you need to get you through the rest of the week starting tomorrow:

A R O U N D   T H E   H U B

Marty is continuing to make changes and is increasing recycling pick up days effective July 1. Find out when your trash and recycling will be collected here.

A map of Boston Rodent Complaints will probably scare and confirm things for many people living in Beacon Hill or the North End.

C A R E E R S,  F I N A N C E  & I N S P I R A T I O N
This is a must-pin article: Vanity Fair shares the desks and offices of the world's most creative people.

Christian Louboutin discusses hard work, timing and inner instincts at his commencement speech to the very lucky FIT 2014 graduating class.


F A S H I O N  &  S T Y L E
Missed the Memorial Day sales? Download Boutikey, a Boston-based startup who's app lets shopaholics discover the latest trends and sales at local boutiques, and even earn rewards from shopping.


A R T  &  E N T E R T A I N M E N T
Can Boston Calling finally be the thing that puts Boston on the music map? Check out the scenes from last weekends successful showing.

Kimye got married in Italy over the weekend, but where are all the photos? I thought this family loved paparazzi...

While getting married Kanye also released his latest track, "God Level" in an Adidas Commercial. Thanks Ye, you really make me feel like I had an uneventful weekend.


H E A L T H  &  F I T N E S S
A strong dialogue has developed on twitter in response to the tragic UCSB murders. Follow the discussion #Yesallwomen to see the outpouring from women and men in disgust of the suspect's skewed demeanor towards his female classmates.

Stay fit with these 4 ways to stick to your fitness routine this Summer from Women's Health Magazine.

Last weekend Cam and I ran our first race, the Harpoon 5 Miler and had a fantastic time. If you are ever in the market for a great workout for a cause, look for upcoming charity runs on Running in the USA.


B O O K C L U B
This week marks the last week to finish up Divergent. Next month's read is Black Mass, which funny enough, is also filming around town with Depp and Cumberbatch!

- Suzanne

Sunday's True Confession

White Hot Summer

Images

1  //  2  //  3  //  4  //  5  //  6  //  7  //  8  //  9

- Suzanne

Latest Obsessions

1 // 2 (the only way to start a party) // 3 //
4 ($17!) // 5 (truth) // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10 // 11

Memorial Day Weekend is upon us!  This upcoming holiday is typically the kickoff for summer, which was especially long-awaited this year.  Before you party, check out this chic invite, J.Crew's latest collaboration with Paperless Post!  Ever since touring the NikeBoston renovations last month, I've had my eye on a pair of Frees, and love the hilarity of this Biggie bracelet.  I think I need to pickup that weekly calendar pad to stay organized this summer.  I recently purchased this perfume at Saks and it is the perfect light, summery scent!

Which would you want to pick up before your long weekend?  Enjoy, everyone!


- Meredith

Nail Polish for Memorial Day Weekend

The long weekend is just one day away! Hopefully the weather is nice, because I know all of us gals are hoping to log some hours at the beach/lake this weekend! If you're like me, your toes probably haven't seen the sun in a while, so prepare for a BBQ-filled weekend with a good mani-pedi in our JUGS approved color choices. Whether you're gettin' classy in Newport or keeping it low key on a camping trip, a festive mani will keep you feeling fresh. Enjoy the weekend ladies!

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6

- Cameron

Daily Read: I Suwannee

Unlike other blogs, I can't go a day without checking up on the Southern gem that is Jamie Mears, an interior designer, blogger, and owner of the online retail shop, Furbish Studio. All three exhibit not only her unique, ecclectic style but her daring flair for life. Mixing multiple bold patterns with bright colors, Jamie takes a fun spin on tradition items and accomplishes some of the most gorgeous rooms and pieces that one would previously have thought unthinkable. Don't beileve me or in need of some flair in your life? Check out Jamie's blog I Suwannee for yourself!

After you've decided you must live more like Jamie, hop on over to Furbish Studio, where you'll find no shortage of great decor items or gifts, one of a kind pop up shops and some great deals on refurbished vintage items. A new pop up shop with Sarah Martinez launched yesterday and I'm sure there will be a Memorial Day Sale on the horizon as well...

M U S T   H A V E S (from left to right)

Neon Watercolo Pillow  //  Turquoise Foo Dog Lamps  //  Natural Frame  //  Bling Ring Dish  //  Kilim Throw  //  Sahara Basket  //  Gold Luxe Rock Glasses   //  Safari Pillow  //  Hot Pink Otomi Print

Images: Jamie Mears, Pink Paisley Bedroom, Dalla Living Room

- Suzanne

Local Gem: Assembly Row, Somerville

via

Boston is a-changin', gals!  As someone who loves watching real estate developments, I find the Assembly Row project in Somerville especially exciting.  Somerville has generally been a place for Bostonians to dabble in trendy restaurants, bars and the arts, but it will soon be a shopping destination!  Avalon Bay Communities has created a "minicity" of sorts for housing, too, complete with an AMC theater steps away from shops and eateries.  I'll be honest, I'm most looking forward to hitting up J.Crew, LOFT, Nike and Saks outlets.  A few years ago, it was just a pipe dream to be able to visit outlet stores without use of a car, but now we have Assembly Row right in our backyard, soon-to-be accessible by T (the efficient Orange Line)!   Store openings are happening this weekend through fall 2014.  Which spot are you most looking forward to visiting?

- Meredith

Week of May 19

1

L O C A L

Fun fact: This week marks the 10th Anniversary of Gay Marriage in MA! Definitely something our state can be proud of.

In other news, the unfortunate eviction of City Soil in Mattapan has been temporarily stayed. We look forward to supporting City Soil and hope they will offer urban agriculture services in our city for years to come!

If your like the JUGs, you may be in the process of conquering your quarter life crisis. Tackle it head on with Eventbrite's Young + Professional: Are You Where You Need to be Financially?

F I T N E S S

Luckily for us Bostonians, spring is the season for FREE workout classes. Join City Sports for their free outdoor bootcamp on the greenway every Wednesday in May and two Tuesdays in June.

And despite the unpredictable weather, Bikinis and Bellinis bootcamp continues at Sterlings every Saturday.

W E E K E N D

Yessssss, its Memorial Day Weekend! Break out those white pants and American flag Toms for an awesome bbq-filled weekend. Check our beach bag essentials guide for a cheat sheet on everything you need for a perfect summer kickoff.

And for those headed to Boston Calling this weekend, we can't wait to hear how our favs Bastille are live! Tweet all the details to us, we want to know everrrrything! P.S. the lineup for September looks amaze.

- Cameron

Sunday's True Confession

Green Smoothie Essentials for Beginners

1 / 2 / 3 / 4

Yes, green juicing is all the rage. Green juices are healthy, delicious, and filling, making them the perfect snack or occasional meal replacement. Unfortunately, ordering from a cool juice bar like JUGOS or Cocobeet will likely cost you $10 a pop. So how can you get these nutritional benefits without coughing up $70 per week? DIY, duh! Even if you don't have a high end juicer, there are some simple recipes you can make with a traditional blender, or immersion blender, that will get you similar results. 

Since I use an immersion blender, I make smoothies instead of juices because the blender doesn't break down foods as thin as a juicer would. I also stick to easily blendable ingredients. For example, collard greens are easier to blend than kale. Here is one of my fav, protein-packed smoothie recipes:

1 fair trade banana

4-5 fresh organic strawberries

1/2 cup chopped collard greens (add more if you're a more experienced juicer, or if you want more veggies!)

1 generous tablespoon of organic Greek vanilla yogurt

1 teaspoon organic morninga powder

Add pineapple juice to taste (more if you are new to juicing because pineapple is good at masking veggie tastes, but look out, fruit juice contains a lot of sugar). 

Blend. Refrigerate. Enjoy.

- Cameron

Love It Or Hate It

When I first heard that Birkenstocks were back last Fall I thought, "no...there's no way."  I assumed it was a European trend that would never make it back to the states, but as the trendsetters predicted, it seems Birkenstocks (might) be back. And for all those "Boston is the least 'fashionable city'" naysayers, I even seen a few pairs on Newbury street. But can it be? Will they stay? 

And most importantly, would you sport them?

- Suzanne

1  //  2  //  3  //  4  //  5  

Daily Read: The Daily Love

As someone who always loved (and collected) quotes as a child, The Daily Love became an automatic daily read for me.  The Daily Love is a source of inspiration, happiness and, as the name suggests, love.  The blog's creator and author, Mastin Kipp, used to drink the LA cool-aid as a hard core partier, drug user and practically lost it all.  His life made an abrupt turn for the better after starting yoga and tweeting inspirational quotes, one day, RTed by Kim Kardashian, multiplying 1,000 followers to 10,000 in a matter of minutes.  Soon after, Mastin was discovered by Oprah's team, and he has been featured on her "Super Soul Sunday" series.  Mastin's new celebrity status is a true success story, and it is clear he continues to spread the love!  It's no surprise that some of this wisdom will transfer to book form as of this fall, too!

The Daily Love has taught me to better accept others and how to deal with especially negative people who were purely toxic to my own life.  Each author's philosophies are simple, but really resonate through the obvious caring truth behind each blog post.  Some of my favorites include:

• Own your mistakes
• You are exactly where you need to be
• Why forgiveness is the best "revenge"
• How to simply get shit done (GSD)!
• How to conquer your never-ending to-do list

A few months ago, I read a blog post on TDL that explained a tour in many major US cities, including Boston.  I knew I wanted to be a part of this event, and, more importantly, include one of the closest people in my life, my aunt and godmother who was the first to introduce me to yoga.  We're attending the workshop this weekend, and I am very much looking forward to some yoga, clarity and cleansing!

Bring some love into your daily life, and subscribe!

- Meredith

SHHHHH...

Get your flapper dresses ready, ladies! Prohibition-era cocktail bars are sweeping Boston. Check out some of the coolest speakeasies across the city:

Wink & Nod 

3 Appleton St
Boston, MA 02116

Parla
230 Hanover St
Boston, MA 02113

Carrie Nation
11 Beacon St

Boston, MA 02108

- Cameron

The Week of May 12th

Wow, what a day we had yesterday!  Spring is finally here and thriving!  Here are your updates for the week ahead:


C A R E E R
You gotta get familiar with the name Sophia Amoruso.  She outlines some career advice here.


L O C A L
This Saturday, stroll by Faneuil Hall to see "Passport to Healthy Skin” with POPSUGAR and Simple® Skincare. Check out healthy food samples, free yoga classes, free mini massages, product samples, and, something POPSUGAR is best known for, giveaways!  They'll be there from 11-3.  

If you either live in Boston, are a visitor or just like accurate infographics to see where your favorite Boston bar lines up, this is for you.

Did you catch the NFL draft?  Well, our new QB is giving Brady a run for his handsome money... damn.

Tonight is bound to be another white knuckle game!  Let's hope Fraser & co. can pull out a win!


M I S C E L L A N Y
You know those "barefoot" running shoes?  Well, apparently they're not legitimate.

Movies not to miss this summer, starting with Neighbors, did any of your catch it this weekend?

Ready for weddings this summer?  Be sure to read up on mani/pedi pairings first!


Have a great week!


- Meredith

Sunday's True Confession

Pretty Pineapple Prints

  1  / 2  /  3 / 4

PetBox Sponsored Post

P E T B O X
This post is sponsored by PetBox, a monthly subscription-based service delivering premium pet products directly to Fido and FiFi’s doorstep.

What better way to treat your best furry friend than with a PetBox subscription? This was my first time trying the service and Pierre gave it two paws up! His box was filled with organic treats for healthy bones and gums, a bedtime story, cleaning supplies for Mom, and a bow tie, which, naturally as a stylin' fellow, he loves.

AD D I T I O N A L   P E R K S:
- It’s the only box for both cats and dogs that offers premium pet goodies where you can pick exactly goes in it
- All products are made in the US
- Toys and treats are customized by dog or cat size
- When you order a PetBox, it ships within 2 business days
- For every purchase, the company feeds rescue animals with the help of a new partner called Bogo Bowl
- Every Friday, the huge shipment of dog & cat food that is sent to rescue shelters is picked by PetBox fans


To learn more about PetBox or place an order for your furry friend, visit getpetbox.com.

- Suzanne

Kate Spade Saturday, Boston

One of our favorite sites in NYC last summer was the Kate Spade Saturday "shop."  It was a new kind of retail experience, where you walked up to a window and ordered items that were delivered to you (wherever you were in the city!) via bike messenger within the hour.  It's no wonder that the brand has been growing so quickly.

Well, as of this past weekend, KS Saturday is now here, as in, IN the Pru!  No doubt the easygoing vibe in their products has been brought to the brick and mortar store, we can't wait to check it out, Saturday or not!




all photos from KS Saturday on instagram

- Meredith

Daily Read: The Chalkboard Mag

This week's daily read is one of my favorite healthy living and style resources. The Chalkboard Mag was founded by the team at Pressed Juicery, but Chalkboard has taken on a life of its own and doesn't seem like a promotional blog at all. Instead, the Chalkboard is a hub of information on fitness, interior design, nutrition, and beauty. One of my favorite columns on the site is "Toxic Timeout" which details the possible risks of chemicals we come into contact with via food or personal care products. It also doesn't hurt that the blog features an impeccable design and pin-worthy photography.

The diversity of their content gives many reasons to come back. I follow their RSS on my feedly reader so I can keep up to date on multiple topics. They have fabulous interviews and collaborations with artists, doctors, celebrities and more.

- Cameron