Raindrops on roses...

After a long (and I do mean long) hiatus, I have re-entered the blogosphere.

And while a lot has happened since my last post, I am going to get right to what we care about: fashion.

In line with Oprah's final "Favorite Things" episode, I thought it was fitting to share a few of my favorite things from this past year and beyond.

Kate Spade: Kate and I have a long, loyal friendship. Never once has she steered me wrong or stabbed me in the back with a bad product. She easily has created some of the most practical yet sophisticated pieces I've ever owned.

This love story started when I was 13. And now, I present you with one of my favorite birthday presents: the Book of the Month Clutch.

Kate managed to marry my passion for fashion and books into one. What began as a classic story of a man's quest for love and the American Dream continues on. This time, between a girl and her handbag.

Moving right along to...

Dresses: As my investment in dresses has tripled over the past year, the payback is worth it. I love that dresses can go from day to night in a few simple steps! I can wear them to work and wear them out without fretting. Transition pieces are the secret to my closet success.

And last, but certainly not least...

Scarves: Whether you pile 'em high or wear them lightly around your nape, scarves have become *the* accessory. (Let's just say Macy's continues to consider me a valued customer for the time I've spent in that department!) Such neckwear adds a certain playfulness or a hint of personality to a suit or a plain old t-shirt that you can't bear to toss.

I'm sure I will be adding more favorite things to this list. After all, holiday shopping is just around the corner!