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chicago

Fashion, Lifestyle

The Freedom to be Happy

A happy consequence of these past few years has been the time to step away from all of life’s distractions and really focus on ME.  I spent many hours reflecting on personal and professional goals.  About 5 years ago, I stepped away from my full-time job as a Development Specialist for a non-profit agency to pursue the blog.  Giving Chicks And Salsa all my attention really allowed me the freedom to challenge myself in a way I had never done before.  I had to be specific about my goals and direction.  Without discipline, I knew I would end up disappointed.  So on this journey, there were some pivotal lessons that I have learned that I wanted to share. 

GIVE YOURSELF THE FREEDOM TO BE HAPPY

Don’t Fear Tomorrow

I used to fear the future chronically.  I took a risk, and the destination was unknown.  Learning lesson #2 is what made me look forward to tomorrow rather than fear it.

Ride The Wave

From my first post to my first collaboration to the start of Digital Chicks Media, any time an opportunity was presented, I said yes and turned wherever the tide took me.  This ended up being a rewarding and winning strategy.  

Own Your Story

I had heard about owning your story when I attended the Style Collective conference early on. In paving my own path, I got to know my story better than ever.  I had become my own boss and made every little and big decision along the way. Being intimately involved with my destiny made me own that story in a way I never had before.

Shop this One Shoulder Top Here | My TShirt Dress is Linked Here | My Straw Bag is from Amazon and is Linked Here

It may sound cheesy, but manifestation works, and it took a global pandemic to make me step back to see what I wanted from my life clearly.  This post would not be complete without a shout-out to my favorite and life-changing book, The Celestine Prophecy. This book is more than a novel; it is a blueprint on how to pay attention to the signals in the universe.  The book so accurately describes nature’s way of putting us on a path that once you see the signs, there is so much that the universe reveals to you. 

If you made this far into my post, I hope you found some of this in some way motivational or inspiring.  Thank you for being part of my tribe.

Your Chick,

Rina

Chicks Picks:

Fashion

Perfect for Fall Layering Pieces Under $75 // STILL INSTOCK #NSALE

There are still some really great pieces in stock during the final days of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. If you missed my previous picks, scoop these up before they are gone!

NORDSTROM.com

As the cooler temps creep in you will thank me for these fun Fall staples and statement pieces. Take a chance on a fun plaid or printed blazer this year, you won’t regret it.

Plaid Blazer

Happy Shopping!

Your Chick,

Rina

Collaborations, Lifestyle

Masala Your Life

I love gift-giving. You read that right, I am one of those people who likes to find the perfect gift for someone and often sends a gift just because.  We have all been in a situation where we needed a gift that would be nice, thoughtful, and affordable?

When I discovered Masala My Life, my heart smiled.  It’s the perfect gift box for a hostess, get well soon or those fun women in your life.  There are so many ways to share the magic that comes in these boxes that they truly are the perfect gift. 

Masala My Life

To me, the perfect gift is around $40-$50. These gift boxes are not imposing on someone’s style or aesthetic and are thoughtful and fun.  For example, I can see myself gifting the LUXE Mango Gift Set to my Mother in Law or an Aunt. I could also share it with someone whose house I may be going to for the first time.  It has a cute kitchen towel, candle, a bar of soap, and a cute pair of earrings.  It just feels unique and thoughtful and that is what I love about it.

Mango Luxe Box
Luxe Mango Box
Summer Box
Summer Box Set
Rose Luxe Box
Luxe Rose Gift Set

We know life is better with masala.

~Anu Mannar, Founder of Masala My Life

Founder Anu Mannar didn’t stop at putting together cute boxes, she thoughtfully put together each piece of these curated boxes that make you feel good about the purchase.  She uses recycled saris in her jewelry, creates everything in the USA, has environmentally friendly packaging, works with local artisans to create unique pieces, AND donates a portion of her proceeds to the South Asian American Digital Archive.  It is the whole concept of things coming together to help the community at large which makes is box truly special.

As a South Asian female entrepreneur, I commend Masala My Life for representing the best of our community.   

Next time you need a thoughtful gift that will make someone feel great while supporting local artisans, and giving back to the community, consider shopping from Masala My Life!

Your Chick,

Rina

  • Masala My Life
  • Masala

** This post has been sponsored by Masala My Life, but the review and opinions are all my own.**

Lifestyle, Travel

5 Free Things to Do in Lincoln Park

My husband and I have moved around quite a bit in our 12 years of marriage. We both grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, and lived a few years in the city before having children and moving back to the suburbs.  However, like many, we moved back to the city five years ago in search for a shorter commute to work for my husband. We now live in the Lincoln Park and absolutely love it’s neighborhood feel and access to fun free things to do. Here is how I am keeping things fun and budget friendly for my family.

  • World Cup Viewing Party
  • Farmers Market
  • Flowers

Benjamin Franklin Park

Just south of Lincoln Park Zoo, near the Benjamin Franklin statue at 72 West LaSalle Drive is a large grassy area where the most robust Lincoln Park events take place. During the summer months, the Green City Market is the BEST farmers market in the city. We also had a great time at the Women’s World Cup viewing party this summer. Keep up with events in the area by joining these Facebook groups:

Lincoln Park Moms

Lincoln Park Cultural Center

The Lincoln Park Patch

HearthSong

Lincoln Park Zoo

Just off the lakefront is Lincoln Park Zoo. With no entry fee the Zoo is the perfect family outing and has amazing city views! They also have fun things to do in the winter,  Follow them on Facebook for events and animal births! Also, be sure to visit during the holidays, they have an amazing Christmas lights display.

Views From The Zoo

OZ Park

The Wizard of Oz themed park is nestled in the heart of Lincoln Park on the corner of Lincoln and Webster. It has dog free picnic areas, baseball diamonds, basketball courts and of course a playground. This has fun for people of all ages and best of all, it doesn’t cost a dime!

Kids at Oz Park

Bike The Beach – Fullerton Beach

A quick walk or bike ride will take you to Fullerton beach.  With sweeping views of the Chicago skyline this is a beautiful way to play in the sand, swim in the lake and create wonderful family memories to last a lifetime!

HearthSong

Adams Park 

With a small splash pad for children under the ages of 12, Adams park makes for the perfect family day!  Located near Armitage Avenue and Seminary Street, this park has a splash pad, sandbox, play set and plenty of swings!  All free!

Adams Parks

PAWS Chicago 

As a dog owner and lover, I enjoy taking the kids to play at PAWS Chicago. At no cost you can go visit animals at the shelter who need homes at PAWS Chicago. There is no obligation to adopt and the dogs and cats could surely use the love!

I hope you discovered something new on this list!

Your Chick,

Sonia