Flower Power

The flowers are in bloom. Spring is in the air. New York is ready for a change of season. 

Our first warm day of the new year hit, and I'm pretty sure everyone made it to Central Park. The Frans and I headed out for a lounge in the sun and some over due blog picture taking. When people gather in Central Park it makes the city seem small. I always run into people I know or have not seen in awhile. It is a great place to catch up with old and new friends.

The trees in Central Park have a few weeks of incredible bloom before they turn into lush green for the Summer. It is breathtaking to witness.

I love a Romper. This cotton number from ASOS can be worn casual or dressed up. Do not be intimidated! Rompers are super easy to wear and perfect for those almost summer days. You can simply slip on a light jacket to take you into night. Heals, flats or sandals...it is up to your mood. 

I'm also super excited about my new hair products from Oscar Blandi. For this lazy Saturday curly look, I gave it some poof with their Dry Texture & Volume Spray and Dry Teasing Dust.

Romper: ASOS / Clutch: J.Crew / Sunglasses: Kate Spade / Shoes: Halogen / Jacket: Urban Outfitters

xoxo
Naturally Ginger

Powder Blue, Black & White

Spring is in the air! Well not quite, but I'm confidently declaring it over the city.  In my opinion it was the worst Winter in years. I'm convinced that once temperatures peek above 40, New Yorkers go crazy. Even though it might only be 40 degrees, they are eating outside, not wearing jackets and rocking open toe shoes. People, we're not there yet. But, after months of being cooped up, I can't blame them for wanting to shed some layers and soak up the sunlight.

I'm totally ready to transition to lighter colors and more flowing fabrics, not shorts and tank tops. As much as I love a chunky scarf, it will be really nice to not have to layer up so much before stepping outside. This Spring look is courtesy of Forever21...surprising right? High-waisted trousers and cropped tanks are very in this season. I stuck with a classic black & white print but paired it with a contemporary pastel blue duster jacket. Though I love a heel, these silver loafers from Sole Society perfectly rounded out the look. Be bold and take some risks this season. 

(Sunglasses: Kate Spade / Necklace: J.Crew / Rings: Forever21 / Bracelets: Aldo)

xoxo

naturally ginger

Derby Dayz & Central Park Picnicking

Days like this don't require many words. 

I love being busy. As much as I might pretend I don't, I love having a million things to do and seeing how God always increases my capacity. I don't like busy, though, when I don't ever get a chance to rest. As an extrovert, I recharge by still doing things, but taking it easy; by being around people out in the world soaking in life. After a full on week, I was ready to recharge. When Hannah suggested a picnic in the park I signed up immediately. I was going with or without the Frans.

We decided to meet up at The Great Lawn. For those of you not from NYC, The Great Lawn is a large grassy space in the middle of Central Park that you can enter from the east or the west in the 80's. I love The Great Lawn because it doesn't get as crowded as Sheep's Meadow, and the crowd is usually more calm and family oriented. 

The Frans did not disappoint and came out in full force.

What's a picnic without cheese, meat and wine? 

We nibbled on Salami and a variety of three cheeses - Stilton with Apricot, a creamy French St. Andre & Goat Cheese rolled in Herbs.

Hannah really surprised us with these homemade roasted vegetable sandwiches. She grilled squash and eggplant, tossed in some sun-dried tomatoes and basil, then spread goat cheese on like butter. They were delicious.

They also smelt like a fresh vegetable dream.

Lindsay popped by to say hi and brought along a little bubbly.

Sleepy from too much food and the warmth of the sun, we were in full lounge mode. 

This little princess was killing it flying that kite. I was very impressed.

Halfway through the afternoon we realized it was Derby Day!  The Kentucky Derby is an American institution and tradition. There were events all over the city to celebrate the race. We decided to participate in the festivities at The Red Rooster.

Located in Central Harlem, The Red Rooster boast a menu full of comfort food that celebrates the local American tradition of the neighborhood. People were out in full force to watch the derby, wearing hats and sucking down Mint Juleps.

The big screen to watch the race was located outside, so everyone moved that way to watch as the start neared. 

I've only had one Mint Julep in my life so I figured I'd give it another go. Not my favorite, too sweet, but when in Rome...or on Derby Day.

And they're off!

California Chrome, the favorite to win, ended up winning. I'm always one to root for the underdog, so the race was anticlimactic for me. I also find it amusing that the race only lasts two minutes.

Overall, it was a GOOD day...a very good day indeed. Cheers.

xoxo
d.eileen