Friday Five: Inauguration edition

         Happy Friday! This week I've been sticking to my New Year's resolutions and enjoying the new pace and directions of my blog. I've had an eventful week: I watched the NFL playoffs, did some post-holiday organization, and explored some new fragrances. I've also been flipping through the Special Inauguration Issue of Washingtonian, which I picked up as a souvenir while in D.C. I love how warm and happy the First couple looks on the cover (and how chic Michelle Obama is)! There were articles about Bo "the first dog", gown shopping tips from Hallie and Kathleen Biden, and memorable anecdotes from the President's first term. That said, my favorite article by far was American Style, which looked back at previous First Ladies' inaugural gowns. If you remember, back in 2009 Michelle Obama chose a gorgeous one-shouldered white chiffon gown by Jason Wu. Apparently the designer didn't know she had chosen his gown until he saw her on TV! I'm definitely looking forward to seeing whose gown Mrs. Obama picks this year. I highly recommend checking out the rest of the slideshow at Washingtonian online (see here).

            Of course I've been catching up my favorite blogs and online print as well. Today I have a 'Friday Five' list of my favorite finds this week. You'll find an eclectic collection of topics, including ladybugs, taupes, sharks, chocolates, and an interview:

1. Makeup Magpie has photographed the life cycle of ladybugs.
2. Cafe Makeup examines the taupe blush trend.
3. Best Things in Beauty has the first swatches of Chantecaille Sharks.
4. Swedish Love Affair shares her home-made truffles and other delights.
5. Lifestyle Mirror interviewed me last week for their Blogger Q&A series.

          Thanks for reading! I'd love to hear what you've been up this week, or what you're planning on doing this weekend! Do you read or subscribe to local magazines? Are you planning on watching the presidential inauguration this year*?

Love, Dovey.
*U.S. Inaugurations occur on the constitutionally mandated date of January 20, however because it falls on a Sunday this year, the public ceremony will occur on Monday January 21, 2013. Incidentally, this is the second time a president has been sworn in on Martin Luther King Jr. day; the previous time was on January 20, 1997 when Bill Clinton was sworn in for his second term!