Secrets to Being a Single Blogger + Valentine's Decor

One of the biggest hesitations I had about starting a blog is my single status.  While that may sound crazy, most of my favorite bloggers are married.  A good percentage of them have adorable small humans. Their Instagrams are filled with chubby cheeked cherubs and handsome husbands to attend fabulous brunches together.  I really wondered if I could fill the pages of Martha Chartreuse with interesting content without a  partner in crime.  Is a double serving of faux-Cheesecake for one amazing or embarrassing? Then I realized this could be really, really amazing.  I don't have to adjust recipes for a husband who only eats cous cous that "supports a two state solution", or, factor in children that have an early bedtime when throwing parties.  This blog is Pure Mere.  At least, I am hopeful it is an accurate portrayal of who I am in person.  And that person just so happens to be single. Which is fun and fabulous.  With a few dashes of adventure, and more than a splash of comedy.

While it is scary to blog solo, it can be even scarier to do things alone in real life.  Going to dinner by yourself can be intimidating.  But also fun and mysterious.  Making pork ragu for one is a challenge.  But the leftover potential is top notch. Sometimes, it requires very fabulous shoes. And, every February, it requires over-the-top Valentine's Day Decorations.  Why? Because all types of love should be celebrated.  And, I have a really amazing mantel that lends itself to seasonal decor. Annnnd, a really great ottoman.

Candles//Candle Tray//Tray

HomeCrafted Garland

Fancy Bar Decor

Friday Five {Go for the Gold}

With the Olympics right around the corner, I've been drawn to all things gold.  Something about the yellow metal seems to feel decadent and celebratory.

Hope you have a great weekend!

Image via Nordstrom

This Essie "Good as Gold" nail polish seems like the perfect way to cheer your team on!  

Image via Guest of a Guest

Did you see that Michelle Kwan's husband is running for Governor of Rhode Island?  Of course, this made wonder what she has been up to since her days on the ice.  My goodness, that girl is accomplished!!

Image via Kalb

For the first time ever I am actually excited about the Superbowl!  The Broncos and Seahawks were both the "regional" teams growing up.  It also seems like the players for both teams have a lot of character on and off the field.

Image via Camille Styles

This Bees Knees cocktail looks refreshing and easy to make during the winter months.

Image via Read Between The Lines

I received so many nice comments about the "I Love Your Hair Will You Marry Me" print from this post.  It was actually a house warming gift from a very kind friend who happens to know that complementing my locks guarantees eternal love.  It is one of the most complimented pieces I own!!!

The ladies at Read Between The Lines were really amazing and made sure every detail was special and unique.