Have I mentioned lately that I have three rescue boxers? Clair is 8, Webster is 3, and Reggie is 2. Nick and I don't have kids, and nor are we planning to have any, so our pups are ridiculously spoiled.

I didn’t have any dogs until about 10 years ago, nor did I grow up with them, so everything was a learning curve. If you have a new dog, or plan to get one I’m going to share some of my favorite products that my dogs and I both love.

Toys:

Three dogs + powerful jaws = lots of $ spent on dog toys. Now normally, I’m a huge proponent of shopping local, but when it comes to dog toys, honestly Amazon has the best prices. Below is a round up of our favorite dog toys - all the Amazon links are included. As a side note, with the exceptions noted below, none of these toys last very long in our house, but these are the most long lasting toys versus others we’ve tried. And we’ve tried a LOT.

From top: Bag of tennis balls, ball and rope toy, Kong toys (These are a lifesaver in our house- I stuff them with peanut butter and freeze them - keeps them occupied for a while)
Bottom row: Outward Hound Hide-a-Squirrel dog toy (this one is their FAVORITE), No-stuffing squirrels (these are great when I’m tired of picking up stuffing off the carpet) , GoDog Dragon Toy

Treats:

Ever since I read about dogs dying due to fake chicken treats from China, I have been vigilant about only buying American-made treats. We use 3 treats in rotation in our house - one is a daily health supplement, and the other are plain-old treats.

From left to right: Buddy Biscuits, Limited Ingredient Treats, Zuke’s Hip Action

Food:

Food is a little complicated at our house. Reggie is allergic to chicken AND has a very sensitive stomach (the curse of pure bred boxers, even when they are rescues), so he’s on a grain free, no-chicken diet. The other two don’t have these issues, so they are on regular food. All three dogs eat Fromm’s - I like this brand because it is still family owned and American made, and they only sell through family-owned stores. This is definitely in the premium end of dog food but I’m convinced that it’s kept our dogs out of the vet’s office except for their normal checkups, so we think the price is fully justified by the quality.

Other essentials:

Hemp Oil calming Treatment: Webster has anxiety -he’s on doggie Prozac, but on some days, he needs a little more, especially if we’re having guests over. On those days, we use Pawlife Calming treats and they really make a difference. We also use them for Clair in a thunderstorm.

Leashes: You should NEVER use a flex leash on a dog. NEVER. Our favorite leashes are these dual handle leashes because it gives me greater control when I need to pull the dogs closer to me on a walk. The padded handles are a plus, especially in the spring and fall when it’s warm enough to not need gloves, but your hands still get dry.

Poop bags: Biodegradable is the way to go.

Bully Sticks: Our dogs LOVE these bully sticks. They’re particularly helpful in keeping them occupied when I need to be on a conference call - it takes them a while to get through these. I do not recommend giving these to your dog if you are not there to keep an eye on them - you want to be in a position to intervene if they start choking on it (Note: we have never had this happened, but its better to be save than sorry!)

I hope you’ve found this post helpful! Feel free to pin any of the pictures so you can save all the links for future use!

Disclosure: This post contains Amazon affiliate links. This means that if you do end up purchasing from any of these links, I receive a small commission. This does not affect your pricing in any way. We have tried and tested each of these products linked in this piece - all opinions are 100% my own (and interpreted on behalf of our dogs :))

I’m a huge fan of podcasts, and I particularly enjoy listening to them while I’m walking my dogs or on my daily-ish commute (I work from home two days per week). I’m always seeing threads of people asking for podcast recommendations so I figured I would share some of my current favorites here!

Bad On Paper: I’ve only been listening to this podcast for a few weeks, and I like it because the hosts Grace Atwood and Becca Freeman talk a lot of about travel and books - both topics I very much enjoy. It’s a self-described young adulting podcast, but I’m pretty sure both hosts are in the mid-30s, so while I guess you’re technically a “young professional” until you’re 40, young adulting sounds like a stretch. Regardless, do not let this distract you from the fact that this is a very entertaining podcast for someone interested in travel and books.

Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness: Jonathan Van Ness, one of the hosts of Queer Eye, is REALLY extra. The first time I watched Queer Eye, I was prepared to hate him for his extra-ness, but turns out, us extra people are magically drawn to each other. I say this to warn you that if you low tolerance for dramatic outbursts and quick sidebars, you will hate this podcast. If however, you are incredibly curious about all sorts of random things, and do not mind detours into strange topics or questionable English accents, you will enjoy this podcast as much as I do.

Oh my God henny, get ready for an amazing half-hour ish.

Is It Just Me?: Coming to you from across the pond, former Glamour magazine editor Jo Elvin and former deputy editor James Williams host interesting conversations with mostly Brit celebrities about the mundane, unusual, and the really important questions in life. In a recent episode, James asked “Is it just me who gets irrationally annoyed at people’s dietary restrictions” — no James, it is NOT just you.

Second Life: As someone who is currently trying to reinvent her career, this podcast is a particular favorite of mine because it tells the stories of professionals who started their career in one direction and have successfully made the pivot, sometimes in an entirely different direction. For me it’s one part inspiration, and one part reminder that change takes time, and in the moment it might feel incredibly slow and frustrating, but as long as things are changing in the direction you want, you just have to keep going.

The Dave Chang Show: Part genius, part media darling, part enfant terrible, Dave Chang might just be one of the most interesting people in the world. His Netflix show Ugly Delicious made me cry - it told the story of food in America, and ultimately any story about food in America is an immigrant story, and one of sharing, and nostalgia, and creating community. As an immigrant myself (albeit one who does not cook much Indian food) it got me right in the feels. Anyway, I was expecting more of the same in his podcast, and well, it’s not quite like the show. Sure Dave interviews quite a few chefs, but he also brings on artists, and athletes and while they talk about food and restaurant culture, they also talk about so much more. Dave is naturally curious, which makes this podcast so interesting. Warning - there are a lot of F-bombs in this podcast, so if you have kids in the car, or are listening at work, you have been warned.

BONUS: So, I know a lot of you are huge fans of true crime podcasts, and if you are, I highly recommend The Teacher’s Pet. Based in Australia, this podcast tells the story of a young mother, Lyn Dawson, who just ups and disappears one day, leaving behind a 4-year old and a 2-year old. She takes NOTHING with her. A few days later, her husband moves his teen lover into the house. Sounds like a slam-dunk, right? Except, that the husband Chris Dawson has never been charged with a crime. What struck me most is that so many people thought “someone else was talking to the police or doing something” that no one did anything at the most critical time. It’s unimaginable that something like this would happen today, but that doesn’t take anything away from the podcast. I’m still on episode 9, and I can’t wait to see how it ends!

Today on the blog, I’m so excited to interview Megan Moran, Stylist and Entrepreneur. In addition to being a stylist, Megan owns a fashion truck (my dream) called The Style Foundry. She is primarily focused on the busy professional and helps women organize their wardrobes and refine their personal style. Without further ado, here’s Megan!

Classic Prep with a Touch of Glam

How and why did you become a stylist?

I'm one of those weirdo kids who knew what they wanted to do since the 4th grade! Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs I was always encouraged to find my passion and pursue it. In the 4th grade I determined my passion was for fashion so naturally I thought that meant I should be a fashion designer. Turned out my drawing skills weren't the best but what I did realize was that I drew things I had seen when out shopping with my mom. I was simply turning the individual pieces into outfits.

By 6th grade I had done enough research to figure out this is what a stylist did and knew from then on that being a stylist was my path. In high school I started my business as a blog where I taught people how to Mix + Match their pieces properly.

I soon realized that writing was not my passion; instead physically helping people was more interesting to me, which is when I transitioned from the blog to services. I dabbled in this through High School and College, took jobs in the fashion industry to build up my portfolio and expertise, and then my husband and I moved back to Chagrin Falls and I started The Style Foundry full time (2017).

How has your style evolved over the years?

Over the years (and even seasons) my style has changed but to the core I've kept a similar message- Classic Prep with a Touch of Glam. When I was younger I showed off this style by trying a lot of trendy pieces and going to stores like J.Crew and BP at Nordstrom. Back then the outfits were a bit more “out there”, experimental (like a long sleeve under a polo) and ill-fitting. Since then I have refined my style by finding the right fit, silhouettes, quality and fabrics, colors, and prints that work best for me. Each season I notice the pieces I like or details I'm into might change but at the end of the day it still ties back to Classic Prep with a Touch of Glam.

We’ve all made style faux pas in our lives - Please provide an example of an outfit you wore in the past that makes you cringe when you think of it today.

There are so many that's for sure! My friends and I always laugh at how 4th graders today do not look like we did in 4th grade! Our bad polos, jean mini skirts with leggings, and boho inspired dresses were a lot less fashionable than what kids are exposed to today. I'd say some of the worst outfits were ones I layered with tees underneath. There were times where every outfit had a tee as a base... I try to erase those from my memory haha 

What style advice would you give your younger self?

It's a process. Don't feel like you have to define your style so quickly. If you like it, wear it, and if you continue to do that you'll come to find your true style. 

How do you curate your own closet? 

My focus is to stay within my color palette and the silhouettes that best match my shape while making sure I only have enough pieces for the variety I need (aka not overpacking my closet.) I'm always focused on Mixing + Matching my pieces as much as I can and find it's helpful to do this by having neutral bottoms and jackets and then using jewelry, tops, and dresses for variety.

Looking at your own closet, what are your favorite investment pieces (2-3 max) and what trends are you loving this season?

My 3 favorite investment pieces are great work pants, a long sleek jacket, and comfortable shoes. When it comes to trends, I like to look at them more like a buffet- if you like something you get it and if not then no worries! Just pass it by. So for the upcoming fall season, the trends that work for my style are: Houndstooth and Plaid, Fall Florals, and Statement Coats. 

What Bombay Taxi piece would you pick as a must-have for your closet?
I almost always recommend a gold cuff for my client's closets. Cuffs are simple and classic and pair well with all outfits - they’re even better when you find one with a cool twist!

Unfortunately, this particular cuff is sold out, but you can find more of our cuff bracelets here:

What is your go-to style tip?

If you don't love it don't get it. Every piece you own should make you excited! If you are buying a piece just because it's on sale or even if it doesn't fit right then it's just going to hang in your closet or make you feel bad when you wear it. 

What is your style pet peeve?

When clothes don't fit right and aren't showing off your amazing figure! It's hard right now with the industry because of insanity sizing and the way things are cut. But making the effort to find the right piece or get things tailored is SO worth it! 

What are some style blogs you follow?

I don't follow any style blogs but do love to learn from these amazing girl bosses: Jenna Kutcher,  Joanna Gaines, Emily Schuman, and Mallory Ervin.

Thanks to Megan for participating in this interview. You may learn more about Megan or book her services on her website, https://www.thestylefoundrycle.com or on Instagram: @stylefoundrycle or Facebook .

If you would like to pin this post for your style board, you’re welcome to use the picture below!

If you would like to see additional posts in this series for even more tips from stylists, I invite you to visit the following pages:

Style Talk with Luisa Lucia

Style Talk with Stella Compiseno

I’ve made a seasonal checklist for each new season this year, and the Fall is no exception. I like these lists because they help my plan fun things to look forward to all fall. I hope you’re inspired to create your own list this season, or feel free to follow along with mine by using #BombayTaxiFallList on Instagram, and I’ll feature you in my feed or my stories, and who knows, maybe even right here on my blog!

Apple Picking: I’ve been apple picking once in my life, and I had so much fun that I’m surprised that I’ve never been again. This year, I’m putting apple picking on my fall list so I actually do it. Happily there is no shortage of orchards around Northeast Ohio that let you pick your apples. Check out Edible Cleveland’s list, and keep an eye out for the dates of your favorite apple varietals.

Baking: I have a long-standing narrative that I’m a good cook, but I can’t bake. This fall, I want to change this narrative and start baking. I’ve already started with a loaf of bread that I baked a few weeks ago, but it took two tries to get it right. This year, I would like to bake an apple pie from scratch - with my lack of patience and lack of desire to follow precise instructions I expect this will be a challenge, but I want to do this. And, it would be a great way to use some of these aforementioned picked apples!

Clam Bakes: I absolutely LOVE Clam Bakes and we make it a point to attend at least one each year, but I only recently learned that these aren’t a national thing! You guys outside of Northeast Ohio are really missing out!!! Nick and I once hosted a clam bake at our home, but they are a LOT of work, so it’s honestly easier to go to one hosted at a restaurant. Some of my favorite clam bakes in the past were at Tremont Taphouse, and this year, we’re probably also going to try one at JukeBox.

Canopy Walk: This is another one of those things that I’ve talked about FOR YEARS, and haven’t done yet, but this is THE year!! The Holden Arboretum (about 30 minutes outside of downtown Cleveland) is home to the Murch Canopy Walk - a suspended walkway 65’ above ground. It’s pretty year round, but especially beautiful when the leaves change in the fall. How do I know? Because of all the people posting beautiful pictures in my Instagram feed, and this year, I will be one of those people posting pictures from the canopy walk!

Discovering the best Tacos in Northeast Ohio: I love tacos, and I think the best tacos in Cleveland are at La Plaza Supermarket in Lakewood (they are on UberEats and other delivery services if you want to eat them at home. You may also hire their food truck to cater your next event). However, I’ve heard from other people that the best tacos are in Painesville, Ohio (about 20-25 minutes from Downtown Cleveland) at La Casita so I’m making it my mission to try their tacos this year. Rumor has it that La Mexicana/El Señor (no website) also has excellent tacos, so I may just have to stuff myself and try both. Since this taco tasting is somewhat close to the canopy walk, I will probably do both in the same day!

Revive my tennis game: Little known fact about me: I’m surprising athletic, particularly when it comes to tennis. I started playing when I was 7 or 8, and turns out, tennis was my sport! I quickly started playing in tournaments, and even though I never won one (I wasn’t competitive enough then) at one point I was ranked #3 for my age group in Mumbai, India. SHOCKING, I know! Anyway, at about 15 I had to make a choice: either really commit to tennis or quit to focus on school. I picked school. Since then I’ve only periodically played tennis - I usually pick it up for a couple of weeks when I’m in India and that’s really been about it. In fact, it’s been well over 10 years since I picked up a tennis racquet! That is, until this past Monday. I finally signed up for a tennis class and attended my first session this week, and much to my surprise, after the first 15 minutes, my muscle memory took over and it all came flooding back! I’m definitely out of practice and super error-prone, but I’m signed up for another 8 weeks, and I’m so looking forward to getting back into it. Best of all, my friend Anna is doing it with me, and we’re already planning our non-class tennis outings!!

So there you have it - I have a great fall planned! I hope you’re inspired by this list to create your own, and don’t forget to tag me on Instagram with #BombayTaxiFallList and I’ll feature you in my feed or my stories, and who knows, maybe even right here on my blog!

PS: If you have recommendations on other must-eat Taco spots around Northeast Ohio, leave them in the comments!