Happy Valentine's Day.

Five years ago today, I had a grim Valentine's Day. There was a huge blizzard in New York, and I was trudging home from work in the dark, with soggy shoes and a lonely heart. As I dodged slush puddles, I wondered if I'd ever meet my soulmate. Didn't seem likely. Little did I know that two weeks later (just two weeks!) I would find the love of my life. As I've said before, it goes to show that you never know what's around the corner.

What are you doing today? Remember how lovely and wonderful you always are. xoxo

(Illustration by Ellen Van Engelen)

How to raise kids like a French woman

Have you heard these rules of French parenting? I'm dying to discuss...
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Roald Dahl stamps

British author Roald Dahl wrote the nuttiest, wackiest, most magical children's stories, and The Royal Mail just released this rad set of stamps to celebrate him. What's your favorite Roald Dahl book? (Mine's The BFG.)

Have a great weekend.

What are you doing this weekend? Alex and I are taking Toby to ride a miniature train and then going to a romantic dinner on Saturday night (no babies allowed:) I've already perused the menu and am going to get the lamb meatballs! Hope you have a relaxing weekend, and here are a few fun links from around the web...

City silhouettes.

Four clever nail polish ideas.

This door sign made me laugh.

Chevron earrings?! Love.

This makes me want to go jogging.

Yummy easy dinner.

A nursery inspired by Steve McQueen.

On finding a career you love.

Marble chocolate bars.

A new issue of Domino Magazine on April 17th!!!!

Heart earrings and a love necklace.

What a beautiful description of laundry.

Dogs barking the Star Wars theme.

Lauren Fleishman's photo series features New York couples that have been together more than 50 years. Inspiring. xoxo

(Photo by Sage Tails)

Valentine's Day flowers in NYC

Instead of grabbing a bunch of flowers at a deli, check out these two Valentine's pop-up flower shops in NYC: one in Nolita, one in the West Village. What a brilliant idea from three talented flower stylists. Bouquets range from $25 to $75 for pick-up. I'd love to get a bouquet just for our house! xoxo

How to feel gorgeous on a date

With Valentine's Day (and mating season:) fast approaching, let's chat about our beauty secrets when going on dates! Here's my little routine...
First, Bare Escentuals foundation with SPF has changed my life. It makes your skin look clean, pretty and glowing. Honestly, I've felt a little self-conscious about my skin as I've gotten older, but this foundation is a miracle. It covers everything beautifully, without looking like you're wearing makeup. It's my holy grail foundation, and I highly recommend it.
Second, I wear this Fresh Sugar Passion lip treatment when I'm on a dinner date or bike ride with Alex. The hint of bee-stung color brightens up your face, while the hydrating treatment makes your lips soft for kissing.

What makes you feel naturally beautiful? Please share your secrets...

(Photo of Gemma Arterton by Elle Magazine, via W&D)

A funny bedroom tip for Valentine's Day...

A while back, I had dinner with friends, including an acupuncturist. We started talking about dating, and she revealed something surprising...
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