10 Things That Make Me Happy: Jess LC

Ahh, this weekend was exactly what I needed - quality time with friends, gorgeous 70 degree weather, homemade meals and being lazy with my husband (something we both haven't done in awhile). I hope all of you had an equally as relaxing weekend.

I've been counting down the weeks until Jessica from Jess LC was up to blog about her 10 things. She's a jewelry designer based out of Chicago - all of her designs are beautiful, I want everything she comes out with. Jess also has a wonderful blog called Makeunder My Life - I've learned something new every single week by reading her blog. Her goal is to design your life with intention, something everyone should think about.

Thanks Jess for blogging here today!

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Hello! I'm so excited to share my favorite things that make me happy today on Sacramento Street. My blog, MakeunderMyLife.com is all about designing a life with intention. Two years ago, I made a personal intention to only have nice things that I need, use, and love. Since I didn't have much money back then, the easiest way to arrive at this goal was to get rid of a lot of stuff that I didn't need, use, or love. That way my ratio of nice to not-nice things increased.

In general, my blog posts about "stuff" focus on exfoliating unneeded items - which means today's topic is a real treat for me. Below are the ten items that I need, use, and love the most. Though the price range varies, all of these items are integrated into my day to day life to give me pleasure and are completely worth every penny.

Enjoy!
1. Voluspa Maison Blanc Saijo Persimmon Candle, $30

Yum. This candle by Voluspa smells wonderful next to my bed and I have to say the fancy box it comes in makes a nice container for my manicure supplies as well. Once the candle burns out, I'm planning on turning the glass container into a vase for flowers next summer. In my book, that's three for the price of one!

2. Neutrogena Moisture Shine Lip Soother, $6.99

Since I'm not big on lipstick, this gloss by Neutrogena is the perfect fit for me. The Gleam shade is just the right amount of pink without looking like I'm trying too hard. And the SPF 20 and moisture are perfect for running in the summer and staying moisturized in the winter.

3. Clybourn Loft Armchair, $300.99

When it comes to decor, I am generally a very neutral person; I like to have lots of muted furniture which I can change up with accent pillows. But I decided to go a little wild with this yellow print arm chair for my new living room and I'm so glad I finally committed to something bold! It adds a ton of personality and will one day look fantastic in a nursery. As for the price, it's a very "Anthropologie" look without the sticker shock.

4. The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, by Stephen R. Covey, $7.42

Okay if there is one thing I can't help but plug, it's my favorite book of all time. I cannot imagine where I'd be at this point in my life without having picked up this book five years ago as a miserable college junior. Definitely worth checking out.

5. Rebecca Minkoff Morning After Mini Handbag, $525

If there is one thing I'll splurge on besides home decor, it's handbags. I cannot say enough good things about my Morning After Mini by Rebecca Minkoff. I have a dark brown version and I love it's timeless look. The roomy interior can hold all my hats and gloves in the winter and anything else I might need while running around Chicago.
6. Moroccan Oil, $30

As someone with curly hair, this oil has done wonders to keep frizz away and moisturize. All I need to do for a shiny blow out is apply a dime's worth of this oil and I'm good to go. Not super cheap, but it can last for up to six months.

7. Twig Floor Lamp, $139

This floor lamp is my newest home purchase (made yesterday). I can't wait for it to arrive. It's shiny base and black shade are going to add a touch of glamor and shine in my apartment - kind of like the living room's jewelry, if you will. I spotted it at Z Gallerie and it's even more stunning in person than it is in this photo.

8. Banana Republic Classic Trench, $198

This fall I invested in my first long trench coat. It's been wonderful as a lightweight fall jacket and will be a perfect rain coat next spring.

9. CB2 Format Square Tray, $35

I have a mild obsession with organization and trays like this acrylic one from CB2 help me create order out of a pile of magazines while looking chic at the same time.

10. Bear Traps Boots, $99 (but you can get them for about $70 at DSW)

As a Chicagoan, I cannot say enough great things about Bear Trap boots. I discovered them last year at DSW. They are the most comfortable pair of shoes that I own, are warm on even the windiest of winter days, and keep my feet dry no matter how much slush there is on the city roads in February. And for the price, they cannot be beat.