{Bits & Pieces}

Desktop Calendar Wallpaper:

One thing I’ve been enjoying the past few months are desktop calendars for my computer at work. Every month, I snag a new one from the paper leaf blog. I particularly love their selection because each month is something completely different from the month before, and their colors, fonts and just overall designs are so fun. Their new calendars are usually posted around the first day of the month, if not the day before. Get yourself July’s before the month’s end, and check out some of their collection for past months.

{Bits & Pieces}

allen + roth Black/White Square Accent Pillow:

When I ordered my couch (in Mocha), it came with two throw pillows made from the same fabric of the couch, but I wanted something that would pop a little more. The simple addition of these pillows on each side of the couch ties my living room together, and gives it a finished look. They're also quite comfortable for just lounging around. 

$14.97 at Lowe's

{Bits & Pieces}

Please Don't Leave Rug:

I have this little 2x3 rug sitting in the entryway to my front door, so that people see it as they're walking out. I think it's adorable, and the sentiment is true. I love the idea that this is the last thing people see as they're leaving my house, and I hope it makes them want to come back often. 

$18.00 at Urban Outfitters

{Bits & Pieces}

Eucalyptus Spearmint Candle:

If something has mint in it, I'm hooked, no matter what the product may be. So, when I first discovered the Eucalyptus Spearmint candle in the Bath & Body Works Aromatherapy collection, I was so excited. It's a light, calming scent that fills the room, and this three-wick candle burns 40-65 hours. I also have the Wallflower, so my living room smells great all day.

$19.50 at Bath & Body Works

{Tracks}

Truth - Alexander:

Right now, I can't seem to get enough of the song "Truth" by Alex Ebert, (front man of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros). His first solo album, Alexander, was released on March 1, and while I haven't listened to the whole thing yet, this song is sublime. The lyrics are great, the whistling melody is addicting, and Alex's rapping is such a unique sound, making for an unforgettable piece of music. 

Available at iTunes or Amazon

{Bits & Pieces}

Stainless Steel Drink Straws:

Drinking an ice cold drink through a stainless steel straw makes it taste even colder, so these are a must in my book. I was worried that they might taste like metal or distort the taste of the drink, but that hasn't been an issue. They're perfect for anything from lemonade to a strawberry smoothie, and are a breeze to clean. 

$9.95 for a set of 4 at Chef Tools

{Sites}

Lafayette Village:

Lafayette Village is a new, European style community off of Falls of Neuse Rd. While not completely finished yet, the shops and restaurants that are up and running are fantastic. Walking around took me back to the time that I spent in southern Spain, making it feel like a mini-vacation, just 5 minutes from my house. I can't wait to go back as more businesses continue to open. 

Location