How to do a Tropical Staycation in the Backyard

*This post contains affiliate links. Clicking does not obligate you to purchase.   As we know, traveling and life are not much fun these days. With all the restrictions and closures, how is one supposed to put on a happy face?! It's tough, so we make lemons out of lemonade and make the best of it. We had plans to travel to Hawaii this summer.  If you've been around here awhile; ya know I looove warm tropical getaways! Since we can't jet off right now; I decided to bring the tropics to my backyard. It totally picked up my spirtis and inspired me to make plans for the islands later.  I hope this post will inspire you as well. Whatever you can do to make yourself and others happy, will go a long way. HOW TO DO A TROPIC STAYCATION IN THE BACKYARD Buy Decor at Dollar Tree Dollar Tree offers an amazing assortment of tropcial decor, to create your island getaway. For 20.00 or under, you 'll be in an "aloha state of mind"  before you know it!  You can enjoy a backyar

Tommy Hilfiger: Stylish Summer Looks to Copy Now

Summer clothes that are both stylish and comfortable, can be hard to find.  If you live in the Northwest or Canda, summer days are warm and the nights are cool.  I have you covered with stylish, sporty picks from designer Tommy Hilfiger. Costco is your casual, style headquarters for name brand fashion. A great selection of pieces are available for a fraction of the price. Brands such as Calvin Klein, Gloria Vanderbelt, Nike, Addidas, Levis are frequently found at warehouses across the U.S and Canada.  I purchased all pieces in today's post at Costco here in Wa state. Today I'm sharing 4 looks you can mix and match to dress summer chic. Tommy Hilfiger Classic Tee Dress This sleek and comfy tee A structured dress should nip in slightly at the waist , hug the hips, skim the thights and end above the knee.  Knit Body Embroidered Logo Soft Stretchy Cotton Fabric Available in navy blue and scarlett red Flat seams Logo tape along sides Tommy Hilfiger Windbreaker I changed out my shoes

A Perfect Day in Venice Italy: A Solo Traveler's One Day Guide

All photography: copyright @mapleleopard **This post contains affliliate links, which means if you click or purchase I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you As a person who had never traveled abroad, it was scary to jet off to Italy alone . As mentioned in a previous post, the trip was planned with a friend who could not go at last mintue.  Let me assure you, traveling to Italy as a solo female traveler is perfectly safe.  The only worry is picketpockets. If you keep eyes on your belongings at all times, you'll be fine.   Sadly at this time, U.S. travelers are currently banned from traveling to any countries in the European Union. However my first country of citizenship- Canada, is not banned.  I know travel is limited for now,  but I want to keep sharing travel guides to keep your sense of wanderlust alive.

Best Things to do on a Girl Trip to Madrid

BEST THINGS TO DO ON A GIRL TRIP TO MADRID Hello Travelin Friend!  Today I'm sharing a guest post from the team at Madrid -Discovery, in Spain.  As you know I LOVE girl trips! This is a fabulous guide for planning a vacation with your besties in this epic destination. Madrid is definitely on my bucket list and hopefully will be on yours too.

8 WARDROBE ESSENTIALS FOR WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

Images : Polyvore 8 WARDROBE ESSENTIALS FOR WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP * This post contains affliliate links. If you purchase or click; I may receive a small commission without additional cost to you. Thanks for your support in keeping this blog running. During this time of social distancing, I've been revamping and cleaning out my closet.  Wether you are working from home , going to the office or in a position of leadership; these tips will help you with wardrobe choices to feel your best. Everyone's different tastes will dictate what wardrobe pieces are essential for your leadership style. There is no right or wrong list.   I'm sharing my go to pieces that help with confidence and leading with style. Black blazer Black Pumps Neutral Trench Coat  Stylish Jeans  Pencil Skirt   Black Dress Pants  White Button Down Shirt   Black Dress

Silverdale, WA: Celebrate Spring on the Clear Creek Trail

*Thanks to Visit Kitsap Peninsula for sponsoring this post. All opinions are my own. Spring is in the air, finally! If you want to escape the burbs head to Silverdale. This lovely town is centrally located on the Kitsap Peninsula. It's just 30 minutes by WA state ferry from Seattle, and a 40 minute drive west of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. I've explored the area from top to bottom and side to side. There's a lot of nature to explore and endless trails for walking. Oh, and I can't forget to mention; you'll love the breathtaking views of the snow capped Olympics and Sinclair Inlet. WHERE TO DO A SPRING HIKE IN KITSAP COUNTY Clear Creek Trail is a big hit with visitors and residents of the Kitsap Peninsula.  I've lived in the west sound for years and have walked this trail only a few times. The best way to celebrate spring, is to get out and enjoy a hike on the Clear Creek Trail . Here are some tips for visiting and facts that may interest

Costa Mesa CA : Top Things to Do for a Mother-Daughter Weekend

          * Our Travel & This Post -  Sponsored by Travel Costa Mesa. All my opinions are my own Costa Mesa is a fascinating city in California, and perfect for a mother/daughter getaway. ( Or any momentous occasion you want to celebrate.) This Orange County gem is centrally located between Los Angeles and San Diego.  The last weekend in May 2019 ,we had great fun in the " City of the Arts!" In honor of MOTHER'S DAY ,I am sharing an updated version of this post.

Waikiki Beach: The Ultimate Girl's Trip Guide

*This post contains affiliate links; if you click or purchase: I may receive a small commission without additional cost to you I'm taking you back to the islands again. Since we can only travel there virtually for now; I'm sharing this guide to plan your trip for future reference. If you do take the risk of traveling to Hawaii now, be prepared to be in quarantine for a longer time than here on the mainland.

The Ultimate Stylish Collection for Travel

Chico's Traveler's Collection  Why you should shop this look for your next getaway Is anyone else feeling travel deprived? I'm hoping the new normal doesn't stop us from visiting places we love. I hope everyone is staying positive and staying busy as possible at home. Travel is off for now, but we can still shop for our next trip. ULTIMATE COMFORT Have you ever jumped on a plane and been totally uncomfortable in your outfit ? I have many times. Problem solved, enter  Chico's Traveler's Collection .  Every piece in the collection, including this dress is designed for comfort when traveling. 

How to Pack Stylish for Waikiki Beach

*This post contains Affiliate Links . If you click or purchase I may receive a small commission.  Photography: Copyright Valerie Hansen Waikiki Beach here we come! Your ticket is bought and you are ready to jet off to paradise! Buying the ticket is the easy part, but the packing list- maybe not so much. Let's go travel virtually to the island of Oahu, since none of us can actually jet away right now.  I thought I'd share a packing list of essentials and stylish outfits. This should be helpful when you are able to make the trip to Hawaii.  Choosing the right wardrobe pieces for comfort will help with dealing with the intense heat.