Normally, I’m not a big shopper…until the first glimmers of spring pop up in store windows (and in my inbox). In that moment, something weird comes over me. Maybe I’m just really susceptible to marketing, and I subconsciously think that picking up new bathing suits and shorts and sundresses and sandals will magically will warmer weather to come sooner. Maybe it’s just that those clothes (and totes, sunglasses and beach reads) remind me of home, where it was pretty much always above 75 degrees.

No matter the reason, one thing’s for sure: I feel more myself when the weather heats up.

In an effort to keep myself from buying up everything that makes me go, “Awesooooome!” (a very real and dangerous threat), I’m posting them here. It’s kind of like people who pin things to Pinterest and feel more productive, even if they didn’t actually turn paper towel rolls into an elegant dining room table or craft a six-course meal out of Peeps. Right?

• The Wander Society –The latest from Keri Smith, author of Wreck This Journal (a book you’re encouraged to write, doodle and destroy), is a manifesto of sorts for leading an inspired, creative, fulfilling life, all based on a marked-up copy of Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass that she found in an old bookstore.
• Nautical Scarves — As much as I try to push springtime to happen, Mother Nature is not having it (at least not yet in the Northeast). An ultra-wide cotton scarf has been a game-changer on surprisingly gusty days when I think it’s sweater weather…and it’s more like parka weather. I wear it loose and, if it gets chilly, wrap it around my shoulders like a shrug. (This one’s from Gap.)
• “Be Silly. Be Honest. Be Kind.” Bangle — This Ralph Waldo Emerson quote is going to be my new mantra.
• Enamel pins — Wear your heart on your tote. Or denim jacket. (Treat Yo’self pin, Johnny Cupcakes; BB-8 pin, Etsy; Vintage Gold Ice Cream Cone pin, Amazon)
• Tassel Romper — It’s a way more flattering beach cover-up than that oversized “You Otter Donate Blood” tee. (The one shown is from American Eagle.)
• Mini Bucket Bag — This is basically the high-end version of the bright turquoise purse I lugged Littlest Pet Shops in when I was 7. Somehow, that crazy color sticks with me to this day. (Kate Spade)

Top Photo: Will Langenberg/Unsplash