Summer Essentials Series ~ Live.to.the.point.of.tears

Today B from Live.to.the.point.of.tears shares her summer faves.  I have been reading B's blog for 2+ years now and I can honestly say the girls honesty, truth and zero BS helped me get through a tough breakup.  She is a drop dead beautiful girl with incredible wit, charm and an infinity for her soon to be husband that I know admire (and I am pretty sure most girls do too) and desire.  She has killer clothes, drinks Jack Daniels,  reads those books everyone should read and writes with passion.  Basically, she just plain kicks ass.  Please do yourself a favor and immediately head over, bookmark it, follow her, whatever works best for you.  I promise you will be so happy you did. 

*What one item can you not be without this summer?*

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A straw fedora. Perfect to put over your messy-pretty beach or lake hair. This, a bikini, cutoffs and Havaianas are all you need in LA.

*What are you craving for summer 2011?*

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Dinner and cocktails at Manhattan Beach Post! J surprised me with a reservation -- we couldn't get in until 9:30 pm but I could instantly see why. Decor is rustic but upscale, atmosphere is lively with lots of "family" seating, dishes are all small plate-tapas style -- perfect for a date. The menu changes nightly and the chef writes in the dishes he's offering that evening, which are based on what's farmers market-fresh and local. They brought us our menus in a little brown envelope with our last name on it, which won me over from the start. Oh, and the custom craft cocktails were heavenly and refreshing, and everything we ate was divine. I'm dreaming of the Blistering Green Beans right now ... If you're in SoCal, hit me up and we'll go.

*What is your essential summer song for 2011?*

Anything from Ellie Goulding's CD "Lights" ... perfect music for making out, dancing and getting ready with girlfriends, or cocktails with your man. What more do you need? Or, I'll take "You and Tequila" -- Kenny Chesney & Grace Potter. Her voice is heavenly and it's such a sexy summer song. The video is rad, too.

Thank you so much B for sharing your picks for the second year in a row.  Ever since you blogged about MBPost I have been dying to go!  Perhaps we can finally grab a drink there?? Love Ellie's voice and just listened to "You and Tequila" the other day and instantly loved it.  Country music and summer go hand in hand for me. 

Tomorrow my roomie Avery will be sharing her essentials to close out the week!  It's almost Friday!!

Summer Essentials Series ~ Covet Living

I realize I was supposed to have this post up last Wednesday, but due to vacation brain and computer issues I am finally able to share the fabulous gals over at Covet Living's summer essentials!  Karrie and Stephanie are always sharing such beautiful photos and that leaving me wanting everything they post.  These girls are truly living a life that we would all covet.  Gorgeous ladies and super talented.  Their summer essentials do not disappoint! 

*What one item can you not be without this summer?*

Stephanie:  Maxi dresses are my easy breezy uniform of choice in the summertime.  You can dress ‘em up (wedges), dress ‘em down (flip flops), and they’re gorgeous and effortless in an ultra feminine, hippie chick kind of way.  The best part is, they are appropriate for almost EVERY occasion:  Farmers market.  Street fest.  Daytime cocktails on a sunny patio with the girls.  Bike ride (with bloomers underneath, of course).  Hot date.  Gelato and a walk…  BAM!  Click here for some real beauts.

Karrie:  That would definitely be my single mode of transport right now: my bike.  Driving back and forth between LA and San Diego these last couple years depleted the miles on my leased car, meaning my ride’s now parked until my lease is up.   So my ol’ bike’s my hook up.  She takes me to work every morning and takes care of me during beach bar crawls on the weekends.  She’s my gurl.  The pic above is my morning commute.

*What are you craving for summer 2011? *

Karrie: A pimped out balcony, yo.  In SD I had a yard; in LA… not so much.  Hence my dream of a zen balcony with some comfy outdoor furniture, a stack of magz, some twinkling lights for night time, and a grill for my guy to man up.

Stephanie:  DYING to log some lake time.  There is no where on earth calmer or more peaceful than the lakes in the summertime…  Give me a lake over the beach any day.  I love how still and glassy the water is in the morning, how fresh the air is, and how the moon lights up the entire lake at night.  I love waking up every morning to the dull hum of waverunners and boat motors coming from outside, the sound of a creaky dock under your feet, afternoon naps in the hammock, trolling on the pontoon at sunset, and roasting marshmallows over a bonfire at night after a long day on the water.  It’s like a giant slice of heaven.

*What is your essential summer song for 2011?*

Karrie:  Hmmm… this is a toughun’.  For the first time in a long time there isn’t one jam that to me defines this summer in any way.  But the song that STILL makes me think of good crazy fun is LMFAO’s Party Rock Anthem Party Rock Anthem.  I know, I know, but just the sound of it makes me do the internal “umph umph umph umph”… if you know what I mean.

Stephanie:  I’ve been taking it back to the old school lately with some Don Henley "Boys of Summer" in the mix.  What a great jam.  I get a little jolt of nostalgia every time I hear it…  it reminds me of summer road trips when I was a kid, great times at the lake (or the Water Bowl, if you’re a Muncie native), and laying in front of the A/C unit on hot, sticky summer nights.  With my Wayfarers on, baby.

Thank you so much to both Karrie and Stephanie for sharing their selections (and dealing with my computer difficulties).  I am envious of Karrie's gorgeous commute sans car and would love a weekend away at lake as well Stephanie!  And your music selections are spot!  Such great ones!  Covet Living is one of my favorite blogs and if you are not already following be sure to add them to your daily reads!

Check back on Tuesday for Lindsey over at Hip Lip's picks!

I'm Loving' It

The new Starbucks "Very Berry Hibiscus" Refresher is muy bueno!  I was very hesitant to try this coffee drink that tastes nothing like coffee, but let me just tell you it is so delish.  A grande drink only has 70 calories and it contains freeze-dried berries as well.  Once I finish my beverages, I fill my cup of with water and enjoy my "spa" water at my desk.  If you are lucky enough to have them sampling it at your local Sbux, make sure you give it a try. 

Also loving the Hunger Games Triology.  I am on the final book of the series and trying to find any excuse to read it.   

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This bright, cheery and a little bit nautical look from Atlantic-Pacific.  I mean let's be honest, all of her outfits are lust-worthy but this one just screams glamorous fun in the sun.

Even though I am perfectly content and still loving my Yellow KitchenAid Mixer, I fell in love at first sight with this KitchenAid Artisan Susan G. Komen Stand Mixer in Raspberry Ice.  Not only would it be a brilliantly bold addition to any kitchen, but with the purchase of this mixer you are also contributing to the Susan G. Komen Cook for the Cure®’s efforts to cure breast cancer. 

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This ring and grey nail polish combo.  Whenever I see this photo I instantly want to run to the nearest beauty supply and pick up a bottle of grey polish (preferably chinchilly).  Grey, yellow, turquoise and a little bit of gold...possibly new bedroom color scheme? 

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Visits from friends and babies that include dinners at garlic ball heaven C&O Trattoria in Venice. 

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Holding sweet little buddy Raleigh while soaking up rays, sipping some wine at Sip in Malibu and reminiscing with friends.  This past weekend Coffey and Cabe flew down from Seattle so that many of us could meet little Raleigh as well as the handsome Easton.  It was a weekend of making the best of roadblocks and rules and fully of laughter and smiles.  So much fun!

I'm Lovin' It

Last week I was ever so luckily invited to attend the private shopping event at Christian Louboutin store on Robertson by my gf Kristina (in the gorgeous coral number).  Unfortunately I was unable to do any shopping at all, but I did get to meet and be photographed with the amazing Brad Goreski! 

He couldn't have been any cute in person, and can we just say that he is as nice as can be.  He was sweet enough to answer a few questions I had, such as when will your show begin taping (soon), where will it be filmed (LA, NYC, all over) and what channel could we watch all the goodness (Bravo - SWEET).  I wished him the best of luck and then threw back a glass of Veuve to celebrate.  When I left he was waiting for valet and he actually waved and said goodbye to me and wished me luck. 

I am officially even more in love with him than before!

This Asos Boxy Flat Lock Clutch.  I want to wear it with white denim and a bright colored tank and some amazing wedges.  Love the bright pink and gold details.

I know we all love Atlantic Pacific's fashion choices, but this ensemble had me absolutely drooling on my keyboard at the straight up fabulous-ness of it.  Adding to my must purchase for summer necessities - blue and white gingham button up. 

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This weekend marks my girl Christy's 30th, and as a graduate of Wazzu, we don't know how to celebrate a little bit...only a lot of bit.  I have a feeling stuffing our purses/pockets with these napkins isn't the worst idea ever...

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Now that I am able to eat chocolate again, I find myself surprised that I haven't been gorging myself on any and everything chocolate.  That was until I tried my coworkers dark chocolate covered edamame and find that I am constantly wanting to sneak into the snack cupboard to grab another handful.  Dangerously good.

B.  He makes me smile, laugh and happy.  It's a pretty amazing feeling that I feel blessed to experience.

I'm Lovin' It

I opened the cupboard in our kitchen at work and noticed this AWESOME mug staring back at me and I just smiled so big.  I have been trying to figure out who the owner is so I can give them a big hug.  It has had all of us gals giggling this week, and for that I love it. 

Have Mercy!

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I would do just about anything to call this my bathroom.  The pop of yellow, the bright white and light = right up my alley.

My iPad will be taking its first flight on a plane this Sunday and I am thinking I really wish I owned this Vivienne Westwood Derby tartan leather iPad case.  Love that it's pink and leather. 

I have been house sitting for my boss this past week at his gorgeous house on a walk street in Venice and have been loving the evening walks with B down the boardwalk to enjoy a beer at the Venice Ale House and the Waterfront Cafe all while enjoying the sunset.

My thoughtful and sweet coworker left me these lovely and fragrant roses on my desk Tuesday morning with a note that read, "Congrats on your promotion! Very well deserved".  Instantly brightened my mood.

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  I purchased  My Private Jet back in the end of February and just got around to painting them this past Sunday and loved the results!  It lasted almost without a chip for 4 days and really sparkled in the sunshine.

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This picture is really accurate of how it turns out and shines.  The color will soon be added to my must always have a bottle of collection.

And now I need your help, should I repaint my nails My Private Jet for San Francisco or go bright and bolder for my weekend?  I am on the fence - any polish color that I should absolutely pick for the trip?

Put Your Mind To It Go For It...

Get down and break a sweat, is exactly what I do whenever I attend Circuit Works.

Last month I mentioned that I had purchased a Groupon to Circuit Works in Venice in order to make my mantra come true.  Two Thursdays ago I hit up the Abbot Kinney location with my girl Christy and let me just tell you this work out kicked my ass!

This hour long class combines, weightlifting, spinning and treadmill running all together in 40 second intervals.  You never stop for an hour. 

I have now attended 3 classes (make it 4 after tonight) and I absolutely have a love/hate relationship with this workout.  I love how hard I work, how sweaty I get, the loud music and the workers.  I hate how sweaty and red-faced I get, as well as the bruises I leave class with hopping on and off the spin bikes. 

Circuit Works is so motivating and I leave class feeling energized and good about myself and I leave knowing that I just worked it out. 

This is Raphael Verela, the man who developed Circuit Works and teaches my Saturday 8:15 AM class.  The class that I almost threw up in this past Saturday.  He is a bit of drill sergeant but extremely motivating and full of smiles once class is over.  He just better never see you walking to your next station (heed my warning)...

If you live in LA and are needing that extra boost to get your fitness routine in motion I really would suggest trying Circuit Works as it has fully given me a new take on exercise.  They have 2 locations, one in Brentwood that my girl Spry attends and another in Venice on Abbott Kinney.  Added bonus, your first class is FREE!  Why not try it out? 

Also a special shout out to my girl Christy for being my loyal workout companion - I wouldn't be as motivated without you!  Project Hot Bod starts now!!

If You're Going to San Francisco....

And I am!!! B just booked our flights to San Francisco! I am so excited!!

I am a bit embarrassed to admit this, but in the 8 years I have lived in LA I haven't once been up to San Fran!  In fact the last time I was in San Fran that I can remember was like 21 years ago! FAIL!

B and I are headed up to San Fran Sunday-Tuesday for my little birthday getaway and I need your help!  We will be staying in Union Square but are open to traveling wherever!  I am hoping to fit in a Giants vs Dodgers game on Monday the 11th and other than that we are wide open!

What restaurants must we eat at?  What coffee shops have the best drip coffee out there?  What romantic place should we grab a cocktail?  Any must see museums?  Please, please, please leave me any recommendations here!

Thanks so much!

Forever Frugal Friday

My sweet sister sent me over a gift card to Forever 21 that I can't wait to use.  Below are two items that I will be on the hunt for specifically and I am also looking forward to checking out the Rory Beca Collection.

I love this California Burnout Top and think it would look so cute with my Legging Jeans from the Gap and some flat boots.  I like that it isn't fitted but still has some style to it, and it helps me declare my love of California!

I am still on a quest to update my work wardrobe and I think this Tiered Scallop Edge Skirt would be the perfect addition.  I think this skirt could also be a great piece in coral for Easter!

I am hoping to come back with some great finds this weekend and I will be sure to share the goods!

Song Of The Week: My Body

I was doing really well with my news resolution to work out more often and then work got really busy and then it was my birthday week and now it is the second week of February and I haven't much to show and my jeans are fitting a bit tight from all the celebrating.  Which is why I was SOOO excited that today's LA Groupon was $35 for 5 classes to Circuit Works in Venice.

Many of my gf's attend classes there and they all absolutely gush of how wonderful (and hard) the classes are.  I am very excited (and a little scared) to get in and experience it myself.  Which is why I chose "My Body" by Young the Giant to help me get motivated.  I mean with lyrics like,

"My Body tells me no, but I won’t quit
cause I want more, cause I want more"

how can you not push yourself a little harder?  If you live in LA and are interested in getting a little sweaty,  be sure to sign up for the deal here and who knows, maybe I'll see you there!

Scenes from the Weekend

Enjoyed a Grilled Three Cheese Sandwich and Tomato Basil Soup from Westside Tavern Los Angeles before seeing The King's Speech - which was outstanding!

Braved the weather and hit the open seas!  For the most part the weather cooperated and the beers and company made it all the merrier.  Plus adding a little extra sparkle to the sea never hurts either :)

It was a pretty chill weekend, I took it easy in order to prep for the busy work week ahead and birthday festivities! 

Word Up Wednesday {plus a little extra love}

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I am so late on my Golden Globes Red Carpet Review that it seems silly to try and cover it now.  Suffice it to say that I loved Emma Stone and Claire Danes the most.  Apparently I am peachy keen!

What I did want to share about the Golden Globes is how extremely happy and proud I was of my bestie Jaime who did a phenomenal job styling Kacy Byxbee's hair for the 2011 Golden Globes.  I mean just look for yourself!!

Could the waves be any more gorgeously perfect?! I am lucky enough to call her my friend and hair stylist and if you live in LA you can possibly too!  She works at a darling new salon in Manhattan Beach called Bardot and all the girls there are super talented and are sure to leave you walking out of there feeling like a million bucks. 

Congrats Jaime on a job well done!  I am so proud of you! 

XOXOXO

Scenes From The Weekend

Enjoyed a (strong) glass of Abey Leffe Blonde out of a Chimay glass at The Local Peasant in Sherman Oaks for my dear friend Ron Weasley (AKA James) birthday. 

Note to Self: Must return to The Local Peasant soon and eat an actual meal.  The food looked incredible!  Deviled eggs with bacon?!? Sign me up!

Congratulated an old pal at Village Idiot for Sunday brunch.

Enjoyed the sunny and upper 70's degree weather outside with B on Melrose.

Note to Self: Work on a more natural looking pose for photos.

Tried out a new *healthy* recipe courtesy of the Trader Joe's Cookbook - Portobello (also seen it spelled Portabella) Mushroom Polenta Stacks. 

Note to Self: Work on food photography skills.

Scenes from MLK Weekend

Watched the Hawks lose horribly against Da Bears.  On a good note, Venice Beach was absolutely gorgeous and sunny!

Enjoyed a "Brie BLT" and "Friggin’ Amazin’ French Toast" at Grub.  So frickin' good!

Tested out my rapping skills and explored the John Lennon exhibit at Grammy Museum.  Lots of music and fascinating facts.  Plus if you show them your AAA card you get a nice little discount!

Enjoyed my favorite cupcake hands down from Lark Silver Lake Cake Shop.  "Colleen’s Caramel Cup Cake" was finished in three bites and had me eyeing B's cupcake for more.  Seriously TDF!

Can't wait to see what this weekend has in store for me!  Enjoy your weekend whether you are in snow, rain, or sunshine!  See you on Monday where my life *should* be a little calmer and I can finally share my Golden Globe Red Carpet Review. 

Ciao lovers!