Gift Guide #4 ~ Kate Spade for All!

I am pretty sure if I only received presents from one store this year, Kate Spade would be the place for me this year.  Every single item I am head over heels in love with!  And if you follow Kate Spade on Twitter or Instagram you would see all the fabulous happiness this company spreads to all around!

If you are still stumped on what to get that special lady or bestie in your life, look no further than below!

all wrapped up cards/live colorfully borough coasters/bellevax fingerless gloves/cascade bib necklace

putting on the ritz earrings/this is the year bracelet/cheers necklace/pavé surround large stud earrings

sparkle summit brynn/charm shoe/sparkler gia/gold playing cards (* pretty please santa)

Any of the goods above is sure to make your loved one overjoyed!

Summer Essentials Series ~ No Day But Today

Today I am excited to bring your Courtney from No Day But Today's summer essentials.  Courtney is a fellow Coug who is the mother of the darling and photogenic as all get out Charlotte (pics above).  Courtney is just about the nicest gal around, whose smile is contagious and just brings the best out in everyone.  Her blog is full of amazing photos of Char that she takes herself and also little beauties you might let pass you by sometimes.  A treat for anyone who visits!

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

Versa Spa

Combine our Northwest "summer" with my white skin, along with my desire to keep my skin healthy...and a tanned body is pretty much out of the question. Enter: Versa Spa. I first learned of it through Miss Lisa Spry who swore it was the only spray tan to go with. No Mystic Tanning for her, and it always looked so even and great after she'd do it, that I quickly became a fan. Even though I am not quite the expert at getting the zero streaks like Spry and Michelle, for the most part it always comes out looking good. Plus, there is almost always some sort of Groupon or Living Social deal to use...or you can just barter with them (again, I don't have quite as good of skills as the Ultimate Sales Lady Spry, but I try)

*What are you craving for summer 2011?*

Besides the actual sun (I think I wrote this same thing last year?! Do I need to move?!), I'm craving projects.

I'd like do redo our picture wall to look something like this, a bit more structured but still eclectic.

And maybe enlarge a few from Charlotte's 1 year picture session like this

And I really want to make this.  Being present is something I'm always working on and I would love this constant little reminder that this moment will pass...both the good ones and the bad ones.

*What is your essential summer song for 2011? *

While this isn't really a quintessential summer song...and I have no idea actually if it's old or new (I actually am not even sure where I first heard it?), I've been loving Little & Ashley's "Stole My Heart".  It's my dance-around-the-living-room-with-my-girl song of choice these days!

Thanks Courtney for sharing your summer faves!  I am loving this song from Little & Ashley - so sweet and fun!  And your projects look like a lot of work with a lot of reward!  Love that do it yourself, "this too shall pass" sign.  I am ALWAYS telling myself to live in the present.  It really is a great motto to life.  If you haven't already, be sure to head over to No Day But Today right away!

Pssst...we're halfway there!!

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

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?

Flashing Brights

According to the calendar, spring sprung on Sunday...

According to my window, spring has yet to arrive in L.A.

The wind, rain and grey, leaves me craving anything and everything bright and sunny!

(click picture to enlarge)

1st Row: Scarf, Candle, Shimmer Tee, Pack Away Bag

2nd Row: Dress, Clutch, Books, Pumps

3rd Row: Bowls, Wedges, Sweater, Trench Motorcycle Jacket

4th Row: Undies, Lip Gloss, Thongs , Nail Polish

Has spring sprung at your location yet?  What do you have your eye one this spring?

Drug Store Beauty Booty

I realized it has been quite some time since I shared my latest beauty finds, and today's post is dedicated specifically to items you can get at your local drugstore for cheap!

So a few months back I ran out of face wash and really needed to wash my face.  So I used a squirt of my Dial Antibacterial Liquid Hand Soap, Gold Value - 11.25 Oz instead.  Took my makeup off great and left my skin clean and clear.  My laziness ensued and I ended up making this stuff my go to face wash for everyday.  And wouldn't you just know that I started getting loads of compliments about how great my skin looked.  This bottle costs less than $3 and is the best wash I have ever used. 

When I ran out of my hand soap/face wash I purchased the generic version of Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash - 9.1 oz. and I have to say that I cannot wait to buy another bottle of the dial because it works so much better!  Give it a shot, if you hate it or aren't pleased you can use it as it is marketed, for your hands!

I have always loved L'Oreal's Voluminous Mascara and was pumped when I saw the commercial for L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara - Blackest Black.  The brush isn't my favorite but two coats of this mascara and your eyelashes are looking TDF.  Long, lush and full - exactly what I want from a mascara.  And for under $8!!

I also recently ran out of eye cream and needed to keep my under eyes moisturized, so I pulled out my trusty tube of Vaseline Petroleum Jelly Jar - 3.75 Oz and rubbed it under my eyes.  A makeup artist once told me that all those eye creams don't really work and the most important thing to keep your eyes looking bright and young was to keep them highly moisturized.  Enter Vaseline.  For under $5 I use this moisturizer under my eyes, lips, and nose. 

I originally purchased my AQUAPHOR HEALING OINTMENT SKIN CARE 1.75 OZ TUBE for my tattoo to stay moisturized but quickly learned that this stuff works anywhere and does a great job.  Now I use it on my elbows that are cracked, my lips that are chapped and my knuckles that are so dry from the cold, blistering weather we have been experiencing in Cali lately (I may be exaggerating a little bit). 

But honestly, this stuff rocks and lasts forever!  It is also wonderful since it is unscented and has no tint, you can help keep your significant others pout kissable and soft for underneath the mistletoe!

Those are my latest cheap beauty finds that can do no wrong in my eyes!  Pick up one, two or all four.  I think it will be the best $20 you have spent in a long time!

I'm Lovin' It

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Rachel McAdams look for the Morning Glory premiere.  Love her hair, love the dress, love the makeup, love her...need I go on?

This incredible My Heart Necklace By Boe.  It's a little bit rustic, a little bit girly and a whole lot of lovely.

(photo courtesy of Richie)

Be prepared to learn of my major obsession with anything and everything Trader Joe's!  This Pumpkin Ice Cream "accidentally" made it into my TJ's basket this past weekend and I accidentally had not one but two bowls of it.  It is divine in absolutely every single way.  I want to top it with some crushed graham crackers and whip cream the next time around.  This stuff is dangerous...consider yourself warned.

A few weeks back in Solvang, we did a tasting at the phenomenal Vineyard Riverbench and though it was my third tasting of the day and I may have had a serious buzz, I do NOT regret my purchase of the Govino Shatterproof Recyclable Stemless Wine Glasses-Set of 4.  My roomie and I were just saying we wished we had "to go" wine glasses for walks at night with the dog and wouldn't you just know that these babies are all that and more.  These glasses would make a great gift for anyone come this holiday season, and to spruce it up, why not add a bottle of buttery goodness alongside of it with the Riverbench 2008 Chapel View Chardonnay.  Easily one of the best Chardonnays I have ever tasted (and I have tasted a lot  few). 

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Kitchen Goods

This past weekend I spent Saturday morning (and evening) at my girl Felicity's house enjoying tasty food and all her newlywed gifts she received (think linens, plates, platters, etc).  One of the new goods we tested out was the Nespresso® CitiZ & Milk Espresso Machine which I am totally obsessed with now.

This little baby makes the tastiest of coffees.  I should know, I did help myself to three servings.  The machine is SOOO easy to use and the coffee tastes and smells so incredible.  The milk frother makes the foamiest and creamiest milk you have seen or tasted, and all of this is achieved in under two minutes. 

You basically buy these pre-measured air tight coffee capsules  insert them in the top of the machine and out flows this beautifully fragrant shot of espresso or cup of coffee.  

 

Enjoying my nonfat latte in Feliss' new darling Emma cup and saucer.  I drink a lot of coffee and I have to say it was one of the best cups I have had in a very long time.  The best part is the coffee works out to be about $0.65 a capsule which means having a cheap cup of coffee that tastes good has never been easier (once you buy the machine that is).  Officially obsessed. 

I really enjoyed drinking my coffee from this cute little cup and saucer, which made me realize I don't own any, which in turn made me search cup and saucers, which brought me to this china below.

The Missoni 'Margherita' Collection had me at first glance.  This bright collection screams fashion and fabulous and would really wake me up in the morning with a smile.  The colors, the pattern, and the mug alone, just perfection.  And those plates aren't too shabby either.

The other day I walked into Williams Sonoma with my girl Lisa and stopped immediately upon entering, when I saw the sauce below front and center.

Pumpkin Parmesan Pasta Sauce sounds absolutely delightful.  One of the things I love most about fall is the introduction of pumpkin as an ingredient at restaurants.  Pumpkin Spice Lattes, Pumpkin Bread, Pumpkin Scones, Pumpkin Butter, but Pumpkin Parmesan Pasta Sauce.....get out of town.  I believe I will be stopping by the store again to pick me up a jar as it sounds just too good not to pass up.

What kitchen item are you currently loving or can't live without? 

Guest Post @ Coco + Kelley

me at the gorgeous Floral Art store

Be sure to pop over to Coco + Kelley and see my guest post about my awesome experience at Floral Art on Abbot Kinney!  I had such a fantastic time and share some tips for you to try at home!

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Luxurious Lucite

Yes I know, usually the words luxury and Lucite do not go together.  Instead I tend to associate Lucite with clear high heels that only strippers can navigate around in.  That was until I eyed these gorgeous pieces below, that have me humming a whole new tune about Lucite. 

First up is this gorgeous Michael Kors Large Face Chronograph Watch.  I am not really a watch person, but I may just have to become one with this beauty as she would practically go with anything!

Just in time for summer are some fierce Lucite Aviators from Dsquared2.  Perfect for the sunny days ahead in LA (I am ignoring the "June Gloom" outside my window).

Perhaps you need a little Lucite in your home to brighten up your living room?  This Payton Ribbed Glass Lamp by Ralph Lauren will do the trick just fine.

 

And just in case my Michael Kors watch isn't matching my perfect outfit for the night, one (or all three) of these Alexis Bittar Studded Hinge Cuffs will more than suffice. 

What do you think of Lucite?  Strictly for Strippers or Luxurious Ladies too?

Gift Giving ~ Mother's Day

This Sunday, May 9th is a special day to celebrate Mother's all around you.  Whether it's your own mother, grandmother, best friend or next door neighbor, here are some gifts that any mother is sure to enjoy and are definitely well deserved.

This savory Alain Milliat Jam Gift Set is perfect for the Mother who likes a little jam with her morning toast or scone.  These jams are a little fancier and more a treat from her everyday Smuckers.  The Fig Violette sounds delish!

Perfect for Cinco de Mayo margaritas a few days late, these Calypso Citron Summer Drink Glasses, will help any Mother transition into summer entertaining.  I actually own these in blue and cannot wait to put them to use...perhaps this weekend!

I sure didn't inherit the love or passion for gardening like my Mom does.  But this Landlubber Gardening Set is soo cute, and totally perfect for that trendy mom who wants to look cute while she tends to her garden. 

If your Mom is anything like my Mom, then she LOVES candles.  I always think of my Mom and our home whenever I smell this scent, but the other scent I attribute to my mom is her love for flowers.  Specifically Fresh Cut Gardenia.  The LAFCO Home Candle Collection are available in a variety of scents, which I am sure you can find the perfect match for the mother of your choosing.

If your Mom is a wine drinker, why not help her get the best glass of in the fastest time possible.  The Vinturi White Wine Aerator will help make that happen.  I have heard great things about the Vinturi Wine Aerator before and love the idea of not having to wait around to let the wine "breathe", and Mom's usually are racing against the clock as is, so why not give her a little extra time?

If you and a sibling are looking to split a nice gift, this Cooler-Outfitted Picnic Tote is the perfect gift.  Perfect for concerts in the park or any other outdoor activities mom will inevitably be participating in this summer.

Entertaining and Mom's go together like, ram-lama-lama-ka-ding-a-ding-a-ding-a-dong (or something like that), and this Entertaining With The Seasons Cookbook will help any mother do just that with a little ease and some pizazz. 

Maybe your mom enjoys beauty products or is always on the go.  These Stephanie Johnson Lime Coral Makeup Pouches are absolutely darling and perfect to store any Mom's many goodies and items they carry with them "just in case".  Seeing as I am technically a "Dog Mom" to sweet little Waldo, I am hoping he may read this post and purchase me one to store my makeup in.  Love!

I still haven't seen "It's Complicated" but my Mom LOVED it and I am sure some Mother in your life loved, it or will love it too.  I mean it stars Meryl Streep, a woman who I have always said I would love to have as my M.I.L.  Throw in Alec B and Steve M, a gorgeous kitchen and Nancy Meyer and I am pretty sure no out there will be disappointed with this gift.

Whomever you celebrate with this Sunday, be sure to give them a big hug and thank them for being such a great Mom :) 

Thank you Mama Debs for being the best Mom, I am thankful for all you have done and continue to do for me!  I love you!