Song Of The Week: Christmas Is All Around

Yahoo! I am so excited that "Christmas Is All Around" me now and I can officially listen to holiday music non-stop. On the radio, in the stores, on my I-Pod, everywhere!

This song and video just brings the hugest grin to my face and I absolutely adore that Bill Nighy in about any flick he is in (he is spectacular in Shaun of the Dead but thats not really very holiday-ish). I am so ready to watch my favorite holiday flicks which include, White Christmas, Love Actually and Home Alone.

Happy Holidays!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

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Happy Thanksgiving to you all! I am thankful for many things this year..

*My amazingly supportive family

*My lovely friends who inspire me everyday

*A job that is filled with fun co-workers and a paycheck to support myself

*My cuddly, sweet pup Waldo who makes me smile every morning and forces me to get out and smell the roses every morning

*You readers who are bloggers yourself often, whose comments bring smiles to my face and encourage me to continue on with this little blog

*Friends Thanksgiving Episodes (they just make me smile no matter how many times I have seen the episodes)

*My first eggnog latte of the season on Friday morning!

I will be returning on Monday, to start off with some Holiday Cheer! May you have a lovely, safe holiday full of family, friends, food, thanks and Thanksgiving pants!

I Love You Man....

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Where have I been the past 5 years? Seriously... I am pretty much loving anything and everything Jason Segel is in.

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My first experience with Mr. Segel was in Knocked Up as the sleazy friend who hit on Leslie Mann. I thought he was pretty hilarious in it and then just sort of forgot about him.

Next up, Forgetting Sarah Marshall. He was so unforgettable in that flick and my appreciation and crush blossomed here. He was heartbroken, adorable, hilarious and just made my heart melt. Also, found out later, that he wrote the movie himself roughly based off his own breakup experience. I DIE!

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Mr. Segel was officially on my radar now and I Love You Man just made my appreciation for him grow deeper. His attitude and timing is just too perfect and he just seems like such a fun, great dude.

I have since added How I Met Your Mother to my Netflix and finished watching Season 1Disc 1 (Disc 2 is waiting for me this weekend), and I just have to say that not only does that show ROCK...but Marshall is like my dream hubby. He is tall, has a great sense of humor and seems just really down to earth and totally sweet (and what a fun group of friends he has).

If for some reason, you were like me and not sure of who Jason Segel is or don't believe my testament to how great he is, watch the video below...if you aren't a believer after seeing it, then I don't even know you (j/k)!

Days Like These Make Me Love LA (even more) ...

(taken with my camera phone from desk at work)

*Sigh*

Song Of The Week: Just Breathe

I think this song is truly one of the most beautiful and touching songs I have ever heard. When I was listening to Pearl Jam's "Just Breathe" this weekend, the line that really hit home was,

"I'm a lucky man to count on both hands, The ones I love..."

I am blessed to also be able to do this, and in a week of giving thanks, I just thought this song was really perfect to start the week off.

Happy {Vampy} Weekend

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I think I shall wait for all the New Moon hysteria to die down a bit before I see the flick, but I have a feeling it might be a Twilight weekend for many. I am not going to lie...I really only want to see the movie for Taylor Lautner shirtless (how do 17 year olds look like that?)...

• Loving this collaboration between Lady G and Sasha Fierce.
• I am craving to snack on these this weekend...
• I could look at these all weekend long...
• Totally wishing I could find a way to rock this look to a party on Saturday night...
  

Whatever you have planned for the weekend ahead, hope it is vampy, fun and fabulous!

Forever Frugal Friday

I have been on the hunt for a cocktail "going out" ring since I lost my last one in Miami. I searched and searched and just had zero luck anywhere. Then last Saturday whilst at Forever 21 looking for a belt for the evening, I came across this beauty and wouldn't you just know that it was just my size and exactly what I have been looking for? This ring arrived just in time for the holidays as it fancies up just about anything.

One of the only pictures that was acceptable to share from that night (has anyone ever tried a bubble gum shot? Incredible...but totally trouble), and check out that fun new ring! I am also sporting my new favorite nail polish color See You Soon by Sinful Nail Polish (a whopping $0.99 at Walgreens). It is a dark navy blue green with sparkles. Love it!

Auf Wiedersehen & Sayonara

Tonight is full of good television! The finale of the most boring season of Project Runway will finally crown the winning designer tonight.



Who do you think will be the winner out of Althea, Carol Hannah and Irina. I think all these ladies are very talented and it is nice to see an all women designer top three, but I just cannot pick a winner for the life of me. For some reason my gut says go with Carol Hannah but then I also feel like mean Irina could pull through in the end.

Over on The Real Housewives of Orange County, Jeana Keough says sayonara to the other wives and we meet the newest cast member Alexis Bellino, who is rich, with big boobs and a huge diamond (as advertised by Bravo). I am super excited to see what Alexis brings to the mix.

Are you sad to see Jeana go? What are you thinking about Douchebag Slade and Gretchen (I am still scarred from last weeks sock on junk vision of Douchebag Slade - blech)?

Be advised that this video is a bit trashy...gotta love those RHOOC.

Hip, Hot, Sequins

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Ever since I saw this twitter pic of Katy Perry's sequin-licious nails I have been wanting to replicate the look badly. However, I am pretty sure I would only feel comfortable rocking this look for a holiday party or for one night only!

If I do find an occasion to rock this manicure, I think I'd be silly not to sport the heels below along with it.

I love the combo of the gold heel and silver sequins to give these pumps a little more pizazz. However, I am not so sure that I would get as much use from silver, but I KNOW I would get plenty of use out of the goldies!

Which are immediately added to my Christmas wish list. Enzo Angiolini has outdone themselves with their 'Merryann' Pump. My name may not be Ann but I will be very merry to own these goldies this holiday season.

In case you have never worn or owned a pair of Enzo's, take it from this girl who owns three pairs. Enzo's are totally dressy shoes that are also, wait for it.....COMFORTABLE!

So whether you're sporting them on your nails, in your hair or on your feet, get your SEQUIN on!

VIA Coffee Milkshake

When I first learned of Starbucks VIA instant coffee I was a little weary. I hold my Starbucks coffee in the highest regard and I just have never really experienced an instant coffee that I think is up to par with brewed coffee...and then I tried it.

Believe it or not, it's pretty, pretty, pretty, good (said in my best Larry David voice). I throw some water in my tea kettle whilst getting ready in the AM and when the whistle blows I pour it in my to go mug and head out the door to work. It is smooth, convenient and totally tasty.

On the weekends, I like to get a little more creative with my coffee choices and this past weekend I concocted a savory VIA Coffee Milkshake.

Here's what you need. A pint of your favorite ice cream (I used Dulce de Leche, but would recommend using your favorite coffee flavored ice cream instead), 16 oz of milk, a cup of ice and depending on how strong you like your coffee 1 or 2 packets of Starbucks VIA coffee.

Just throw it all in the blender, and voila!

Throw a straw in it and sit back and enjoy.

Another Starbucks note...I heart those beautiful red cups (as seen here - don't worry I still need to get a pic with my cup for this season) and love the yumminess that is holiday drinks every season. Although I cannot enjoy my eggnog latte for another 9 days, I decided to try their new Caramel Brulee Latte...

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I enjoyed it for the first three sips and then it was just a little too sweet for me. However if you like your coffee on the sweeter side I would definitely advise you to give a shot.

What's your signature holiday beverage? Have you tried the VIA? What do you think? Have any coffee inspired recipes like this one that you want to share?

Song Of The Week: Whatever You Like

I could not keep my eyes open for last weeks episode of Gossip Girl, but managed to open my eyes long enough to hear Anya Marina's awesome cover of T.I.'s "Whatever You Like". Unfortunately I fell asleep, and forgot the name of the song that I wanted to download the next day. Luckily for me Live.to.the.point.of.tears posted this song and artist and it all came flashing back to me.

I love the original and am totally feeling Anya's version in a whole new way. Fun, light, and sexy, this song is currently being played on the IPod every 10 to 15 songs.

You can have whatever you like...and I think you will like this!

Forever Frugal Friday : Bootie Edition

I have been very hesitant to try this bootie trend as I pictured it would just make my legs look even stubbier. However, I watched an episode of Oprah this week and they put a 50+ year old woman in a pair of booties with tights and she looked adorable! Which got me thinking....if she can do it, surely I can take a chance?

Enter Urban Studded Bootie from Forever. Sassy, flashy and just the right price. I am thinking with some black tights, a black skirt, a simple white tee and a bold clustered pearl necklace, I may just have the perfect going out outfit for the weekend ahead.

So go ahead.... "Bootie, Bootie, Bootie, Bootie, Rockin' Everywhere"

It's Bacon!!

My name is Lyndsy, and I totally love bacon.

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The smell, taste, everything! Let's be honest anything combined with bacon equals instantly delicious. With the recent bacon obsession, interesting combinations can be found everywhere. My co-worker recently sent me a link to chocolate covered bacon and I was instantly curious to sample this immediately.

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In Shirlington Village, there is a darling little wine shop called The Curious Grape, where they host daily (free) wine tastings (we went Friday, Saturday & Sunday) and offer a variety of fantastic wine, cheeses and salami's, as well as....Chocolate Covered Bacon. We purchased a bar on Friday night, and the cashier informed us that the rest of the bars would be gone by Saturday night. Well sure enough, Saturday night, one bar remained out of the original 15!

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I would love to tell you all that I LOVED every bite of the Vosges Mo's Bacon Bar, but sadly it just didn't do it for me. You could definitely taste the bacon, but something wasn't right. Maybe it was the quality of the chocolate, maybe the chunks of bacon weren't big enough...whatever it was just left me disappointed.

Which means...I am still on the quest for the best bacon dessert treat out there. Next on my list to try is Sir Francis Bacon Peanut Brittle from Dean & Deluca.

This combo might be more what I am looking for. I am thinking I may just order some to sample or bring to the next holiday party I attend. I am pretty sure I won't have to worry about someone bringing the same thing!

On a sweet treat non-bacon related side note:

I did sample from Dean & Deluca the most delectable treat I have EVER had in my life (yep I said it).

Although super pricey (I paid $3.00 for 2 pieces) the Sea Salt Caramel Collection is worth every penny. I seriously moaned in the store when I bit into the chocolate. If you are looking for a gift for that person who has a sweet tooth and enjoys salty treats, this little puppy is sure to bring you to the top of their favorite people list. Ah-Mazing!

So, am I alone in the desire for desserts containing bacon? Do you know of an amazing recipe or dessert I should be trying (or avoiding)? Let's hear it!

Spotted!

Photo by Mario Testino for Vogue

I spotted the absolute dreamy Pierce Brosnan waiting for valet today in Century City. He looked smashing in in his suit and scarf. *Sigh*

Seeing him today made me think of my all time favorite Pierce Brosnan movies and without a doubt it has to be the incredible sexy Thomas Crown Affair. I mean talk about luxury and hotness. Makes me want to head on over to the Met immediately.

Also, I may be the only one, but I loved Pierce in The Matador. Maybe it's his mustache, or the scene that he walks through a hotel lobby wearing only briefs and boots, but I really liked this flick. If you haven't seen it already give it a chance.

Thank you Mr. Brosnan for being so damn handsome.

Splurge Vs. Steal

With Thanksgiving just 15 days away, I realized I haven't even begun to think about a possible dinner outfit (shame on me)! I immediately hopped over to Shop Bop for inspiration and eyed this beautiful Gryphon Metal Sequin Tank.

Just the right amount of sparkle to light up the room. Plus I loved that it isn't completely fitted which will allow for some feasting on turkey (mashed potato, pumpkin, etc). The only thing I didn't love was $295.00 price tag...let's be honest, the odds that I will end up with something down the front of me by the end of the night (be it wine, dessert or gravy) is very likely.

Which is when I had a flashback of my trip to Georgetown with Mrs. R, when I saw this adorable top...

Oh American Eagle..thank you for carrying this Sparkle Tank that although is not an exact replica, will do just fine at $39.50! The quality of the tank is quite nice and I think for a savings of $255.50 I won't be too sad if I end up spilling on this tank.

So I would like to give thanks to Gryphon for designing a beautiful tank, and thank you to AE for making it a little more affordable!

Song Of The Week: Baby By Me

50 Cent - New Music - More Music Videos

Ever since 50 Cent first arrived on the scene with "In Da Club", I have been a fan. I love his little giggle and I love that he smiles! Which is why I was super excited when I first heard "Baby By Me". This song is just plain hot. Ne-Yo provides some nice back-up vocals and cute Kelly Rowland is featured in the video.

Go ahead...be a millionaire!

Happy Weekend!

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I am planning to hit the Santa Monica or Culver City Stairs this weekend and would enjoy them so much more if they were these sparkly beauties. Alas, they are not...

May you all have a weekend of shiny goodness!

Forever Frugal Friday

My obsession with tights is starting to get a little out of hand. Every shop I have been entering lately, I find myself gravitating towards the tights and wanting to snatch up every pair. Well tights can cost a pretty little penny, so imagine my delight in Forever 21's selection of tights.

I love these Diamond Cut Tights and think they offer a little edge without being OTT.

The Zig Zag Mesh Tights in blue liven up your look a lot, but are still work appropriate (unless your office is SUPER corporate, best leave these for coffee with the girls).

These Novelty Mesh Tights are a bit more bold but still have a classic look to them. Paired with some closed toe pumps and a black pencil skirt you will be business everywhere but your legs.

I am dying to add these Parlor Mesh Tights to my collection! Intricate and lively, I would definitely keep it VERY simple with boots and a simple black wrap dress.

Whatever pair fits your personality, remember that tights as fashion are also functional as they keep your legs warm and help prevent those gosh awful spider veins (blech). Enjoy!

These Boots Are Made For Walking...

This past weekend in DC I lived in boots. I wore them with tights, Always Skinny Jeans and tights. Let's face it, boots go with just about anything and add a little edge/sass to whatever your outfit entails. Below are some of my favorite boots for fall that will carry you right into winter as well as spring!

I just love the color of these Cinty Mid-Heel Downtown Boots. They would pretty much go with about anything and any color you wear. Plus the heel isn't too high so they are pretty practical for tromping around town in.

I have had my eyes on these DV Wendall Boots for over a year now, and am thinking the odds of them joining my closet are pretty great considering they are $109 at Nordies right now. Love them!

A sexy cognac boot is a little tough to find these days. That is why I was ecstatic to find these Eliza Slouch High Heel Boots from Banana. Hot heel, yummy color...has me feeling all warm inside.

I wasn't aware that Fossil was making boots for women but, can I just say thank goodness they are! These Allison Boots are equally sporty and sexy. The wooden heel makes them a little more casual, but the black color is sexy dressy.

If you're a little more country, then these Ralph Lauren Vina Boots are sure to get your spurs a turnin'. All you need are jeans and a simple white tee, to complete this country look.

Of course the boot that's all the rage and I seem to see on everyone is the Steven by Steve Madden 'Intyce' Boot. Most of the girls I know have them in the cognac color, but I quite enjoyed these boots in grey as well. Sadly, these boots hit me mid-knee or else they'd be mine!

Lastly, for those with longer stems and the ability to rock and own over the knee boots, may I present the Guess Rumala Knee High Boots for your consideration? Yes over the knee boots are not for everyone, but let me say when my girl Jaime rocks them, she rocks them hard! And you can too if you like!

So go on girls...pick the pair for you, throw them on and start walking!

DC Chillin'

I had the MOST amazing time this past weekend in DC visiting the lovely Mr. & Mrs. R! The trip started a little shaky (flight delayed two hours, made me check my carry on at the gate), but were quickly improved upon entering baggage claim where I was greeted by Mrs. R. By the time we made it back to their cute home in Shirlington Village, it was already past 1 AM, but that didn't stop us from chatting until well past 3 AM.

Friday morning we were up at 8:30 AM and walked along this cute creek and played at the dog park (mind you we were minus an actual dog), and then headed over to Five Guys with Mr. R and enjoyed a bacon-wrapped hot dog and fries (delish). Then we dropped Mr. R back off and headed to Georgetown.

Had to make a stop at Dean & Deluca for divine chocolates (two small truffles cost me $3) and the absolute best soy chai latte I have ever had. We did some window shopping, and just enjoyed the hustle and bustle of college students assembling last minute Halloween costumes. I also picked up these since they were only $8!

Next we were off to Clarydon for more shopping and wine tasting.

We had to get a picture with the gorgeous fall foliage behind us. Gotta love those long arms of Mrs. R! We grabbed a glass of Buehler chardonnay (super good, highly recommend) at 3 Bar & Grill and then enjoyed a wine tasting at Best Cellars.

Back in Shirlington that evening we decided to stay local and hit up Bungalow for some beers in mason jars, and darts of course!

Mrs. R and me before too many drinks...

Mr. R (rocking the skinny tie) & me

Mrs. R enjoyed a Blue Moon (that's a lotta beer!)

The lovely hosts Mr. & Mrs. R - aren't they just so cute?

After hitting the hay a little late (4:00 AM anyone), we all decided to sleep in a little and then Mrs. R and I were off to Crystal City Shopping Center for last minute additions to our Halloween costumes. While we were there, we took the chance for a photo-op with a pretty fabulous couple.

Then we were back home and prepping for Halloween madness. The plan was to catch a taxi into the DC area and hit up the bars there. Well, after waiting 2 hours and still no cab, we decided to make the most of the evening and headed over to Bungalow again and we had a frickin' blast.

Black Cat & Slutty Sailor (no getting around it)

Halloween crew: Black Cat, Lederhosen Man, Mexican Mask Man, Pinocchio (minus the nose) and Slutty Sailor with Chocolate Cake Shots (yum!)

Had to get a pic with Layfette - his costume was dead on!

Sunday was here before we knew it and sadly it was back to the airport for me...our weekend of fun was jolted a bit by a run-in with the law. We fought them, but they won.

Mrs. R with her speeding ticket at the airport. We almost got away with no trouble this weekend!

Thank you so much Mr. & Mrs. R for having me this weekend. It was a fabulous visit and I cannot wait to do it again in Spring 2010 and experience all those fabulous cherry blossoms!

It's Back.....

Upon arriving at Mr. & Mrs. R's house late Thursday evening, I was greeted with a delightful and familiar scent in the guest room. And then I saw it (and minorly freaked out might I add) ....the Spiced Chestnut Essential Oils Room Spray. The scent that Williams Sonoma had discontinued last season. The scent that prompted me to write this.

And wouldn't you just know, that I had to capture with my camera the goodness for you all. Believe me when I say, I am a huge nerd when it comes to scents and my reaction was similar to that of someone who just won the lottery. I quickly slathered on the lotion, sniffed the display candle and enjoyed the yummy scent that is Spiced Chestnut.

Thank you Williams Sonoma for bringing Chestnut back!

Song Of The Week: Sleepyhead

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After an incredible trip east to see Mrs. R (pics and recap later this week), Passion Pit's "Sleepyhead", describes exactly how I am feeling! The songs electronic beat however has been helping me snap out of it this first Monday of November.

I am new fan of this band, and am loving this album more and more every time I listen to it. Chances are you are not familiar with their name but have heard many of their tunes in TV shows (featured in current season of Gossip Girl), movies or shopping at your local store. As I have learn more of their tunes and sounds, I am always recognizing their work out and about.



Happy Monday!!