A Beautiful L.Y.F.E.

Be still my beating heart....

2012-02-14T08:53:00.000-05:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY DEAR ONES....

XOXO

October Best

2011-10-18T15:54:00.000-04:00

My harvest table with gourds, flowers, and pumpkin from the grocery store, of course. Nothing fancy.

I truly love October and the essence of autumn. For those that live in the north or have traveled to the north during this time of year know how beautiful the leaves look when they change colors. How the smell in the air is reminiscent of leaves burning on a crisp, cool night. Bundling up as a kid on Halloween to go "trick or treating" and sometimes braving the rain and dampness just to get some candy. The eagerly awaited day that marked the beginning of "Sweater weather" and strutting around in your cozy finery! Flinging on a tweed blazer, jeans, and riding boots to run some errands and catch a drink with friends. It's amazing how the climate and time of year can conjure up images and transport you to a moment or semester in life that everyone has in common on some level. I'm getting misty...I digress...

Anyways.. I love October and this is my "October Best"- an homage to Oktoberfest without all the beer and brats. Enjoy!

These spectacular pumpkins have me rethinking my tablescape however...

More chic pumpkins...

This would've been so apropos at my wedding!

Always lovin' me some victorian silhouettes!

(All pumpkin images from Pinterest)

And here's an oldie but goodie from one of my past holiday tables... gold spray painted mini pumpkins!

What's fall without indulging in some old faves like cider & donuts, apple pie, pumpkin bread, hearty soups? Here's what has been wetting my whistle as of late:

Big Apple Pancake- makes for a simple and glorious breakfast treat!

INGREDIENTS

1/2 stick unsalted butter

1 large sweet apple (gala, golden delicious or honey crisp which is what I used), peeled, cored, and cut into 1/4"w wedges

1/2 cup whole milk

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

4 large eggs

3 tablespoons granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

Confectioners sugar for dusting

Seasoned 10-11" heavy cast iron skillet or other ovenproof skillet

Preheat oven to 450 degrees w/rack in middle of oven. Melt butter in skillet over medium heat, then transfer two tablespoons to a mixing bowl or blender. I used a mixing bowl (of a kitchenaid stand mixer but any bowl or blender will do). Add apple wedges to skillet and cook, turning over once, until they soften, about 3-5 minutes. (I added a sprinkling of sugar and cinnamon to the apples while cooking but this is optional. I just wanted a sweeter outcome).

While apple is cooking, add milk, flour, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon (optional), and salt to butter in bowl (or blender) and mix/blend until smooth.

Pour batter over apples and transfer skillet to oven. Bake until pancake is puffed and golden, about 15 minutes. Dust with confectioners sugar and serve immediately. You will think about syrup but it's not necessary. Trust me. This pancake ends up tasting more like a crepe and has a light delicacy that the maple syrup would completely mask and be too heavy.

Look out delicious but predictable pumpkin pie: Pumpkin Cream Pie will give the old standby a good run for it's money... and waistline! Well, in my case - my waist isn't the only thing growing! I have thighcaps...Yes, thighs that have lost the graduating line onto the knee and have melded as one limb: the thighcap! It's the new cankle! This is still going on my Thanksgiving Menu, however!

Recipe here.

What's October~~fest~~ Best without some pretzels... These look infinitely better than my frozen Super Pretzels! I think I have to start baking my own...

Oh lord, if I could imbibe right now, this would be the drink I'd be concocting this month in the spirit of ghosts and glamblins (my girly goblins)! Drinks courtesy of the new book by Daniel Boulud, Cocktails & Amuse-Bouches.

(enlarge image for recipe)

Side note: *Champagne foam: In a mixing bowl, pour 4oz of warm simple syrup, add 1-1/2 sheets of gelatin, and stir. Add 12oz of Champagne. Pour into a Thermo Whip with 2 gas cartridges. Keep refrigerated. ARE YOU KIDDING ME? Now I need a "thermo whip" for my cocktails!

And for him...

(enlarge image for recipe)

Side note: *Spice syrup: Bring to a boil 2 cups of water with 2 rounded cups of white sugar, 8 cinnamon sticks, 8 cloves, and half a teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Let steep in refrigerator for a day, then strain mixture into a clean, sealed container. Can be kept refrigerated for up to 3weeks.

Olfactory therapy...my fall scents! Heavier, spicier, sexier for the season!

Fall fashion never fails... however in Florida it's sort of a let down. Let me live vicariously for a moment...

(Inhale)

(Exhale)

Something for the fellas - if we saw this specimen walking around South Florida..it'd be like seeing water in a desert. No one dresses this well or looks this good...(except you, honey, if you're reading) where I live. All things considered.

Just a crazy ol' orange bag.... kidding, of course. Holy grail. Rose gold watch ain't too shabby, either.

HAPPY AUTUMN!! xxoo

Fall Book List!

2011-09-16T11:50:00.000-04:00

Not that I have much time to kick back and enjoy a book, but I will make every attempt to thumb through the pages of these wait-listed books this fall. I just pre-ordered and I look forward to my tomes arriving sporadically between next week and November. I don't know if I can wait!

Great minds....

2011-09-13T12:09:00.000-04:00

The stylists at Piperlime put this look together with the Parker skirt I featured in my previous post. I knew I was on to something...

My Fall Lineup

2011-09-08T10:01:00.002-04:00

Summer has officially ended but somehow here in Florida, Summer persists to beat down on us until well after Halloween! That being said... I can try to get into the Autumn mindset in little ways without dressing myself in the much desired head-to-toe fall fashion :(

For starters... it's always a good idea to pump some iron (or at least schlep a heavy purse (sidebar:Jimmy Choo bags have heavy hardware)- note: not good if you have a bad back) and keep up on your fitness. Muscle burns more calories than anything else. Believe me. I don't do cardio nearly as much as ya'll think... it's a combo of genetics (had biceps since 5th grade) and working with 10 pounders a couple times a week. But....... score some Chanel handweights and I am sure your triceps, biceps and shoulders will thank you after your wallet has not. These are for the girl who has everything... More on who "that" girl(s) is down below...

But totally chic, eh?

Leopard is everywhere again.....on feet, heads, necks, backs, legs, purses, eyelashes, nails...So it seems like eyes are kinda an afterthought, right? Well this Dior leopard eyeshadow is stunning and will make it's debut into my makeup bag this fall. Meow.

I love this new color by Essie. I forgot the name and the source but it's a great blue-gray.

Cat's outta the bag... Not quite sporting a bump yet, but when I am protruding come December (genes, don't fail me now!) then this ADORABLE denim dress from the MAMA collection by H &M will be hunted and gathered faster than any primitive animal, er, or, pregnant woman?

On my MUST HAVE list, darlings... This stunning oversized Alexa bag by Mulberry. A beautiful classic for Fall/Winter 11/12.

Deep breath....

Okay, I'm back. Had to get some air. I just bought a pair of black suede platform booties but with a wooden heel. These are from Asos.com - very cute stuff at reasonable prices!

These Alexander McQueen pumps have me salivating all day long. Add a splash of color and whimsy to your LBD or color block with red and yellow and go all primary on yo'self. Whichever you decide...blue shoes can find their way into many an ensemble.

Again with the macabre McQueen. This leather wrap bracelet is a perfect accoutrement to all your arm candy that you've been collecting and piling on to look cool, effortless and street chic.

Lace crept back in to the fall-front again and is hot hot hot.

RZ worried that her collection wouldn't be well-received. This plaid coat is pure heaven and her collection follows suit. Shopbop and Piperlime have some pieces of Rachel Zoe's collection.

Another great Fall find - this LBD by Rachel Zoe. Great tailoring.

J. Crew jewels....what's not to love? Black bracelet by Lulu Frost for J. Crew. Pile them all on!

What kind of woman would I be if I didn't include a dose of fur? It's back - seen in vests, collars, jackets, hats and the like. This fur is darling because I like how it is belted. Defining the waist almost eliminates the Chewbaca effect!

I really adore this midi-length skirt by Tucker. Great pattern and shape which would look smashing with a ladylike blouse with bow and a little fur tossed over. Mixing patterns is so current right now so make sure the drapes DON'T match the carpet! Unfortunately, I can't wear this due to the lack of baby bump forgiveness :(

LET'S TALK FOOD......

Fall also has me yearning for braised short ribs, hearty stews, and a humble yet fabulous meat loaf! Trust me, this isn't the meatloaf that conjures up images of bland, dry dense beef. This is superb! I swear by this recipe! I have been making this for years with much success and applause!

WHAT I'M DREAMING ABOUT....

A new Home Sweet Home for my growing family. This is definitely a dream house.

WHO WE'RE ABOUT TO SEE MORE OF...

Tamara and Petra Ecclestone. These billionaire-esse Britons have taken L.A. by storm! Not only gorgeous, but insanely wealthy. Blondey (Petra) just purchased the Spelling manse in Holmby Hills which graciously accommodates her five pooches and Birkin collection plus had a lavish $5mill wedding this summer. Look out Kardashians...I think we're gonna start keeping up with some other spoiled rich girls who do nothing but spend, spend, spend...

WHAT I'D LIKE TO BE DRINKING....

Armand de Brignac champagne. It was debuted in 2006, has real pewter labels that are hand applied and the bottle comes in a black velvet bag. This champagne was developed by Cattier for the André Courréges fashion house.

WHAT I'LL REALLY BE DRINKING...

Mocktails - and more of them. I made this basil-lemonade earlier this summer and it was delicious.

A N D

Baby Bellinis - peach nectar w/sparkling cider

Pelligrino and cranberry w/lime

Sundowner - White grape juice, sparkling water, fresh mint

ugh....only 6 more months till I get the good stuff......!!!!

WHAT I'LL BE WATCHING AND DVR'ING...

In no particular order

Parenthood

Up All Night

Modern Family

Real Housewives of.... any city

Mad Fashion

It's a Brad Brad World

Read to Wear

Rachel Zoe Project

Pan Am show

Ellen at 4pm

WHAT I'LL BE READING....

June, July, August, and September's Elle Decor, Vogue, House Beautiful, Veranda, Interior Design, Arch Digest, Bazaar....I have a lot of catching up to do!

WHAT I'D LIKE TO DO UNTIL MARCH...

Hibernate!

HAVE A GREAT FASHION'S NIGHT OUT!!!!

Full Spectrum

2011-08-23T14:28:00.001-04:00

Everything's coming up rainbows lately... Hmmm....wonder why? Well, stereotypical jokes aside, I love my fellow home-boyswholikeboyswholikegirlswholikeboys so this isn't a mockery but more of a celebration of our "colorful side". I'll let the freak flag joke pass... (yaawwwn)...Enjoy the colors...I'm back from vacation and literarily rusty for right now. I'll be back and sharper, more clever, more relevant than ever very soon. Tootaloo!

Christopher Kane Resort 2012

Daphne Guiness in Alexander McQueen kimono

soda bottles pic from Pinterest

Pinterest photo (love this wrap job)

I swear this exists in P-town?

I have a sweet tooth and upset stomach just thinking of all the dyes I'd be ingesting. Pinterest photo.

This is actually psychedelically pretty

Feast for the eyes!

Rainbow hued blooms (again, more food coloring!)

Stunning rug...Talk about a statement in an all white interior or hung on the wall?

By Cibeles. Astoundingly absurd. Great Halloween costume though..If you're going for that stick of gum look.

How couldn't I include this? A technicolor dreamcoat should live in ALL our closets.

It's garish, but somebody's wanting this bouquet!

Here comes the bride....

Sidebar: How can you not love this song? It is so beautiful...

Penny Lane

2011-07-21T11:44:00.001-04:00

What a glorious kitchen!

I'm having a copper moment. I have said it before and I'll say it again.. Copper is the new gold. Maybe copper had its moment already and I was just asleep that season, who knows? I am saving my pennies for beloved copper pots to hang from a copper pot rack in my future kitchen, as I wear a rose gold watch and mix cake batter in my copper kitchen aid mixer, standing tall and elegant in my Brian Atwood pumps and maybe a gown to boot... Anyways, here are a few of my favorite coppery things...

Copper pumpkins courtesy of Pinterest

I really love the pairing of copper with gray and white. via Pinterest

Copper farmhouse sink. Love the copper towel bars just below the sink, too. Pinterest

Copper doors (Pinterest)

Creative use of space or new measure in home safety protection: shelf over doorway for pots and pans.

The basin is lovely, a little oversized. Looks like a mini bathtub.

Copper kitchenaid mixer

An organizer with ADD dream come true!

Copper ceiling and copper countertops.

Essie The Cove

Brian Atwood Maniac Rose Gold pump

Elie Saab Fall '11 Couture

Maxime Simoen Fall '11

Penny for your thoughts???

Easy like Sunday morning...

2011-07-17T07:00:00.000-04:00

I don't have to write much, do I? I want to make this easy...like Sunday morning...

Enjoy a day of doing nothing...be leisurely...eat with reckless abandon. Relax. Lick your wounds. Respect the Sabbath. Eat some more. Relax. Hair of the dog. Repeat.

Royal Wedding of Monaco!

2011-07-13T09:14:00.000-04:00

So I am a day late and a dollar short of posting these fantastically beautiful pictures of the other royal wedding of Charlene Wittstock to Prince Albert of Monaco. After hearing some questionable rumors of their honeymoon, it sounded like anything but. So as I look at these photos for the fifth time, now, I find the stunning Charlene's grin forced, her gait stiff, and her eyes doubtful. But maybe that's just my observation. Heavy is the head that wears the crown, so they say....

Images courtesy of Style.com

Sneak Peak: SJP in Vogue

2011-07-13T07:20:00.001-04:00

Mario Testino photographs the gorgeous Sarah Jessica Parker & brood for Vogue, hitting newsstands next week. I had to share these lovely snaps of the glam momma, her dapper husband, and darling children.

Off to the Ball....Stunning copper penny. (PS:why isn't copper the new gold? I predict-copper is the new silver/gold/pewter, name-your-alloy- color...soon...for nails and apparel). Just saying:)

If only everyday life looked this good! She looks like a mom who never cleans her kids' bedrooms!

"Are you gonna go my way?" (Lenny Kravitz)-neerrrr neeer ner ner..naeerr rruu rruuu rruuuh! Boys are loud, eh?

I have no words. I just love this photo.

Can you imagine cleaning up this kitchen after the shoot? Oy.

This photo needs to be framed and put on their mantle. This sequin polka dot Valentino is divine,no? Not to mention...the thick moulding around the door is heavenly. (Note to self: future home door casing).

"If I didn't have kids, I would be at the theater or the ballet every single night of my life," says Parker.

Paisley's Birthday Party Inspirations

2011-07-12T14:22:00.000-04:00

I have to get a hold of myself... I have gone bat-s*it crazy planning P's 1st bday party! I just hope that with all my advance preparations, some overnight shipping, and last minute details, that this Parisian themed (no berets, thank you) extravaganza will be a lovely event for the adults and kiddies this Saturday!

So I said it was Paris-themed... Yes, there will be Eiffel Towers in the way of cookies, statues, etc....

Jumbo round balloons... I hope my mini helium tank has enough juice for these 3'round beauties!

This looks divine... I might be able to scratch the surface of doing a similar effect...hmmm...

Love the flowers, the tableware.... Sublime.

Magnificent.

There will be cliché pink poodles too... I wasn't as creative as I thought for this party. This is my first rodeo, now... For 1st bdays that is!

It's a gay wedding cake! NO... this is my daughter's bday cake. No joke!

Crepe paper pom poms will dangle from the ceiling

Vintage clothespins will hold up beautiful glittery candy bags attached to a gold ribbon!

Candy Land...

I couldn't resist this cute picture. Of course, my daughter isn't a puppy, though some would say Delphine is my first born. I digress. Let's just ponder on how sweet this pup is! I have a very similar hat for Paisley. To be continued...

Every mat has a place...

2011-07-07T07:00:00.002-04:00

And every place needs a mat? No... but I HIGHLY suggest personalizing/monogramming/purchasing these VERY COOL place mats! Ok, so the idea wasn't solely my unique find...I had the help of House Beautiful this month. But so what. How many of you really read the maggie monthly and comb through it like I do? So anywhoooo--- I just added these fun place mats to our meal time repertoire (all 4 of us, me, husb, Pais, and Delphine - can't leave out the dog!)...all personalized, of course. I chose a varied ensemble from the "Hamptons" collection in the navy, magenta, pumpkin, white hues, but there are several color ways, patterns, and fonts to fulfill all your whimsical needs.

For $15 a mat, what a thoughtful token this would make as a hostess gift while spending summer fun at a friend's abode. I bet you'll be invited back...if not for the weekend, for dinner at least:).

For more info...

https://mattieluxe.com/

My Amber Heaven

2011-07-06T14:03:00.000-04:00

I wasn't an amber scent fan until I stepped into the lobby of the Plaza Athenee in Paris. My life changed then and there. I was so enthused when I found out the hotel shop sold these candles! I have been burning this candle for days and I can't get enough. I just ordered another one (yes, from Paris!) I know... weird. I couldn't wait to go to Diptyque in NYC later this month to get an amber alternative, impatient gal that I am. But scents are nostalgic and every time I catch a whiff, I am instantly transported to...well...a very lovely, luxe hotel in Paris, where I fell in love...with a scent!

To indulge yourself, purchase here.

Curve Appeal a'la Italian Vogue!

2011-07-06T07:23:00.002-04:00

Big is beautiful...no question when you look like Vogue Italia cover models, Tara Lynn, Candice Huffine, and Robyn Lawley shot by Steven Meisel. While I was having lunch in Italy during my vacation overseas, I picked up this magazine - though I can't read a word of italian - and was captivated by these curvaceous models and what another part of the world finds attractive and cover material. I thought these girls were stunning, booty and bust combined. Their hair was glamourous and full and their faces absolutely flawless, delicate, sultry and stunning. Perhaps Anna Wintour will take note and surprise us with a cover model that isn't the average size 2 model or actress. I am sure it's doubtful. Vogue Italia was very refreshing to see, I will admit! Cheers to celebrating these plus size babes! Cheers to all of you, plus or puny... Beauty is within and it radiates throughout!

XOXO

Alexa Chung

2011-07-05T07:35:00.003-04:00

Just some great photos by Ellen von Unwerth of Alexa Chung in Vogue Italia this month. She's cool. But I can't explain why. I happen to love these shots, however. Anyways,more brevity in my posts to come. It's the 4th. I'm tired. This firework is going to bed. xx

Baby, You're a Firework!

2011-07-01T07:35:00.001-04:00

Graeme Montgomery

The United States is the only country with a known birthday. ~James G. Blaine

Chris Craymer
Freedom is the oxygen of the soul. ~Moshe Dayan

Francois Halard
My patriotic heart beats red, white, and blue. ~Author Unknown

Peggy Sirota
We must be free not because we claim freedom, but because we practice it. ~William Faulkner

Atlantic-Pacific blog

James Wojcik

American Flag Platforms

What is the essence of America? Finding and maintaining that perfect, delicate balance between freedom "to" and freedom "from." ~Marilyn vos Savant, inParade

Red, White and Blueberry Layer Cake

Martha Stewart Recipe here

Freedom is nothing but a chance to be better. ~Albert Camus

Rankin

I love my freedom. I love my America. ~Jessi Lane Adams

Wishing everyone a wonderful, joyous, safe holiday weekend and July 4th!! Let freedom ring! xo

2011-06-30T20:24:00.001-04:00

Gorgeous veggies!Carrots & purple asparagus! Loving all purple veggies these days!

The Days of Whine & Rosés

2011-06-29T15:53:00.000-04:00

London Calling

So here is the start of what will most likely be a lengthy blog post! We flew to London then traveled to Paris, Cannes and Monte Carlo. At times, my memory is a little foggy - because as my baby whined...I drank! Hence ...my days of whine and rosés...since I either consumed a daily glass (or 2) of champagne or wine in the blush colored hue. Pardon my recollection of certain points of interest. I figured a splashy cool photo will suffice in the way of words (smile).

We did all the touristy stuff first...

Boat ride along the Thames River

The London Eye

The Tower Bridge

Confections at Harrod's

Floral Elephant at Harrod's

My bounty from Pierre Herme!

The Union Jack

Flowers were everywhere...

Large floral centerpiece at the Claridge's Hotel

Lovely white rose arrangement

Inside the restaurant at the Connaught Hotel - cascades of orchids in clear vials

Not sure of the significance of the bottle but I liked the shot.

Tea at the Ritz...had to try at least once!

(the atmosphere.....oh so fancy)

Proof...see the glass of rosé champagne...next to the tea? Oh, and Paisley's bow that she notoriously yanks off her pretty head.

The dessert spread. Tea sammies down below... cucumber, turkey, ham & cheese, smoked salmon. Crust off. Delicious.

Spoken words heard while in London (and it gives me a giggle every time I think about this):

Hotel Clerk: "Whoopsie Daisies" as he was speaking to another employee. Love that saying.

Well-dressed man on sidewalk, mid-50s, just about to get off the phone: "Talk to you soon...tootaloo"

I crack up every time I think about that.

Tootaloo London....now chunnel to Paris next!

Bonjour, Paris!

Two hours later via the chunnel from London we arrive in beautiful Paris. This city to me, is the most stunning, captivating and romantic of all cities in the world. Everywhere you look - there is a point of interest, architectural detail, lovely garden, alluring street scene, vivid flowers, something - all waiting to be photographed - or captured somehow. While a lot of images are stored in my mind, here's a taste of what I captured on film.

French flags hang over a door...seen walking towards my candle store (below)

Love the blue doors

Walking through Luxembourg Gardens

At Cire Trudon - the world's oldest candle makers

Pretty in pink vignette

Pastry shop window-always with my tongue hanging out for this stuff!

Taking time to stop and smell.... You can't pry me away from a good flower market!

According to my husband...not everyone does (he thinks they're too sweet)-

My Ladureé lovies...

Below: Violet creme to the left, mint and mixed berry to the right

After fueling up and on a saccharine high, it's off to see some fashion!

Fashions from the 60s and 70s on display in YSL's redone atelier

Pointing to my wine...to the left....out of baby's reach, I mean, spillage capability. I am a very protective mother:).

Isn't this just wrong? Gotta love Paris. Baby is riding freestyle in the cab!

Au revoir!

Cannes (kan)

Views from our hotel room - our first hotel room before we switched rooms

Gorgeous sunset casted such amazing lighting

View from our 2nd hotel room...just a bit higher up!!!

La plage - doesn't this look like an old Slim Aarons photo? Good job, honey!!

Another husb pic!

Sunbathing on the pier

Street scene in Cannes

Small street with shops and restaurants (it was Sunday so many places were closed).

You will be mine...oh yes...you will be mine!

Fill'er up!!!

Win-ning...Monte Carlo

(For some reason, I am thinking about this scene in Dumb & Dumber... Perhaps it's because I equate the wealth and ostentation of Monte Carlo to the abundance Lloyd refers to when speaking about "Aspen")

Lloyd: What the hell are we doing here, Harry? We gotta get out of this town!
Harry: Oh yeah, and go where? Where are we gonna go?
Lloyd: I'll tell you where. Someplace warm. A place where the beer flows like wine. Where beautiful women instinctively flock like the salmon of Capistrano. I'm talking about a little place called Aspen.

Harry: Oh, I don't know, Lloyd. The French are assholes.

ANYWAYS....... where was I going with that? Round and round my brain goes...where it stops, nobody knows (sometimes).

We drove from Cannes to Monte Carlo which isn't a terribly long drive. Like I mentioned in my previous post...stop off in Cap Ferrat... and check out that smashing hotel. You won't be sorry, I promise! So here we are ... Monte Carlo.

Right outside the Hotel De Paris...it was like a car show at all times....

Monte Carlo Casino

Casino to the left, hotel to the right

Evening time...something I rarely saw since I was in my room w/the little one while the sun was still out.

The beach club we had access to for land and sea adventures. I did a triple lindy off the high dive. You believe me, don't you?

Pretty to look at, too cold to jump in ~ sorry.

~Land~

I spy...what is that? Oh, yet ANO-THER glass of blush colored wine hitting my lips. Ahem.

One can dream, can't they? Like how men fantasize about women flocking like the salmon of Capistrano?

That's all folks! I'm tired. Phew.

Stay tuned for my food-gasm blog of all the delectable dishes we ordered along our travels. My husband is channeling Anthony Bourdain-gastronomy and travel-wise so that inspires alot of our food snaps.

Tootaloo!!! xo

Grand Hotel du Cap-Ferrat

2011-06-28T07:25:00.000-04:00

While on vacation, we had the opportunity to make a brief sojourn to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat on our drive from Cannes to Monte Carlo and have lunch at this fabulous hotel, the Grande Hotel Du Cap-Ferrat. Ironically, after returning home and going through my mail, I saw this layout in my June/July "Interiors" magazine and had to post these beautiful pictures by Tim Beddow. He certainly captures the elegance and comfort that this hotel exhales due to the all-white interior design by Pierre-Yves Rochon. This glorious palace by the sea is truly magical. I would love to have stayed at this quiet, tranquil, sophisticated retreat. I highly recommend a stop-by if you are traveling through the south of France. If you are even more fortunate, please make a reservation and stay a couple nights. This hotel would make a superb honeymoon or anniversary/milestone birthday destination. Talk about Living in Your Finest Environment:)))!

Lobby interior

Hotel Bar

Guest Room

Guest Room cont'd

Vanity

Now for my pictures....

Lalique crystal birds inside pendant

Grand lobby interior in whites, creams and hints of pale blue

Looking out one of the windows from lobby

Another vantage point of the sitting area of hotel

Simple floral arrangements. I like the use of these vessels and how the flowers lean off the side!

I always learn something new on a vacation!

Another lobby scene

Walking to the casual poolside restaurant, La Veranda (there is a gastronomique restaurant that has a Michelin star, Restaurant Le Cap).

The stunning walkways to the pool

Glimpses of the sea

Pool and sea... and my ride!

Pool and lounging

Rocky beach, but it's still pretty

The back of the hotel

Fresh flowers -always

Tootaloo....

Agreed.

2011-06-24T14:21:00.001-04:00

I am still getting back to reality... Catching up on beauty sleep, compiling photos and thinking up a travel story or two for you folks! Stay tuned....

Have a lovely weekend! Xo

Home Sweet Home

2011-06-19T22:33:00.000-04:00

Still acclimating to being home and getting on schedule. Nothing better than sleeping in your own bed!! While pictures are uploading...I am still downloading. Travels, travails and tales to follow! XO

Bon Voyage!

2011-06-01T07:18:00.003-04:00

I see London, I see France...

See you soon, with all my rants!

The Search for a Tanner Posture and Beach Hair

2011-05-31T14:44:00.000-04:00

You can never be too rich, thin, blonde or tan. Ok, the last three are obviously tongue in cheekly written because YES YOU CAN look malnourished with bleachy fried locks sporting overly charred flesh. Hello.."Magda" in Something About Mary is a testament to those South Florida sins. Embarking on my eleventh month of being a mother, I have ~~very little~~ no time time to bask in the warm sun, bronzing my limbs as I read a magazine. Nope. My life plays itself out in two hour increments every day. Whatever I decide to do, wherever I need to go, I can really only do it in a two hour span. I am on baby time now.

So that is my segue into self tanners and beach hair. The latter I'll get to in a sec... Let's begin with an oldie from back in the day (pre-college I think) which is Toma's Tan Perfect! I saw an infomercial and was hooked. I would schmear this cream all over my face religiously as if it was my moisturizer. Loved you, Toma!

But I grew up... And then I fell in love with Donatella Versace (read: blonde hair, tan face) and hence, Versace bronzer. Oh did I have an infatuation with this bronzer! I still yearn for this. But now I have a replacement since this has been discontinued for a loooong time. I found me some Nars Laguna and Casino. But I'm not done....

This Chanel self-tanner was again, another all-time favorite. Great color output. I think they reformulated this because my old bottle didn't look exactly like this. Anyways ~

Alright - if you're feeling rich ~~or stupid~~ one day, then buy this Sisley gel. It's organic, smells delightful, gives you a decent tan and is just that. Decent. For the money, I wouldn't replenish. I still have this and use it from time to time.

I used St. Tropez tanning cream (now I use mousse) many moons ago. I didn't care for it then and I am trying to care for it now. I like the mousse for my face because it dries in a snap. Beware it stains your hands like the dickens! So even after you wash/scrub it off your hands, there is still evidence lingering in your palm and fingertips. Goes away in about a day. I find two daily applications gives me noticeable color. My husband actually commented one day that my face looked tan. So I guess I'll keep this product.

I had a weak (read: impulsive) moment online shopping for a "beach hair" product when I saw this gel bronzer and thought "Bonne Bell" (gasp, haven't heard that name in a while), I can throw that cheapie in the basket and give it a whirl. Good thing it costed a nickel. It does nothing much in the realm of tanning one's face. Eh. Oh well.

Another Old Faithful: Clarins.

How could I forget Lancome Flash Bronzer. Weren't you always so excited to get a free tube of this in your Gift With Purchase bag?

Moving on to my obsession with beach hair. I call these the real Locks for Love. As a primer - I have poker straight hair. My hair would give Annie Duke a run for her money (oooh, good one Bran). Anyways, my strands are thin, fine, and never grow longer than my bra strap on my back. The kind of hair that needs to be dirty to curl. The kind of hair that clip in extensions were MADE for (if you have any hair to clip them into and not show the clips)! But to this day, I am still that girl that thinks, "this is the year I will have beach hair!" I will make it happen! The products say so, right?! I will just say that no matter what I do ~ my hair never turns out like this:

Ok, her hair isn't the only thing that is perfect.

Stay focused on the hair, people!

(gag)

According to Oprah.com...

For fine to medium texture hair that is straight to loosely wavy:

Shampoo and condition your hair before bed and towel dry.
Evenly distribute a conditioning mousse (with hold) in sections throughout your entire head, when finished comb through.
Scrunch your hair and get a good night sleep! You'll wake up the next morning with bed head with texture and volume! From here you'll only need 10-15 minutes to refine this look.
Begin at your nape, twisting and curling your hair around a medium size curling iron from the midshaft to the ends. Once you reach your crown twist and curl your hair from the roots to the ends. (Working on hair that is "dirty" helps your style to last longer).
Allow your hair to cool and then soften your waves by finger styling your hair with a greaseless lightweight shine serum.

As for the above- I've been there, done that. Who has that kind of time to fuss with all those steps?

This was the first product I ever used for my beach hair. What a waste.

This was my impulsive purchase. I "scrunched"this product into my hair before going to bed. Smells amazing. I woke up with dry, crunchy, voluminous (yes! for real) hair. If I twisted my hair around a curling iron, I'd for sure have beach hair!

Remember this beaut of a photo? What color was I here, you ask? Lit-erally the crayola color "indian red" -something NOT found in a bottle. The hair remains straight on the daily :?

Happy Memorial Day!

2011-05-29T09:36:00.001-04:00

Enjoy the long weekend...wherever you are relaxing!

India-my visual Delhi sandwich

2011-05-27T15:17:00.001-04:00

My relatively new "India" Cookbook that is so daunting to read. I have made one thing: Chicken Curry III

Long before Elizabeth Gilbert set out to find a guru ("Eat, Pray Love") or Slumdog Millionaire opened our eyes, there was a girl (me) who always dreamed of going to India. Maybe it started back when I was a small child and had an Indian babysitter... perhaps I got used to the household smell of fenugreek seeds, coriander and curry that permeated the atmosphere, but was strongest through her saris upon which I would sniff when I was sitting on her lap. Or maybe it was the eclectic home decor, vibrant colors and religious symbols scattered about carefully. Babysitter's name can't be spelled out...it's a traditional Indian name. To sound it out would be absurd. I don't event think I know how to say it properly. Regardless of my past influence of a culture so foreign to me, it is ironic that I, now, have such a preoccupation and fondness for all things Indian.

(image from Saffron Marigold Blog)

While this post isn't trying to sell anyone on travel, food, cookbooks, history, or anything really "intelligent" sounding... (because I am still doing research)...it's purely a visual into what I see when I think of India. Yes, there is grit and poverty and violence. Let's not discount the obvious when we envision the country. We have that a few blocks away from where we live, too, if you think about it. (Yikes, did I just end a sentence in a preposition? I said nothing "intelligent" today!) This is my visual dream. A colorful, cultural, beautiful, delicious, energetic, loyal, worshipping, respectful dream.

Delhi's Khan Market

Rush hour in Ahmedabad

Fierce No Parking sign

Gates to a residence in Bandra

above photos from Wallpaper Magazine

Dyes

Truck of pots...can you imagine?

The splendors of a wedding!!!

Arthur Elgort photo (also seen in my elephant post)

Devi Ratn, Jaipur

Frederic Lagrange -Lakshadweep, India

Mary Ellen Mark

Frederic Lagrange-Vengunad, India

And......don't we just all love this funny guy from Parks and Rec? I find Aziz Ansari to be HI-larious!

photo by Paola Kudacki (trunkarchive.com)

Photos below from Wallpaper Magazine...kind of like the Sartorialist on the streets...

Thotreichan Sasa, 24. Photographer

Left: Unsolicited street photo, Versova, Bombay,Right: Syed Ali Arif, 35. Artist

Sasha, 26. Entrepreneur

Below... from my magazine. In case you're interested in flavoring up your foods with curry or chutney.

I will get to India one day.. It's on our list of places to travel. I was invited by a dear friend to go this September, so we'll see. I hope you find passion in a culture or activity to keep you inspired as travel, design, food and other cultures continue to inspire me. Writing this occasionally breaks up my monotony of listening to Fisher Price music/animal sounds and doing laundry:). So glam....yes I know.

XXOO

Mental Case

2011-05-24T16:45:00.000-04:00

We are packing up and leaving for our European vacation a week from tomorrow. I am going insane. I have been planning the packing essentials for over a month now. Here is a taste of what is going through my brain...in terms of packing for the baby, that is... For 2 adults, 1 infant - there are 5 suitcases, 2 wheelie carryons, 1 tote bag, and 1 duffle (maybe). But a solid 8 pieces for 18 days. No more traveling light!

To be continued...

Dinner for 5

2011-05-18T08:45:00.000-04:00

Last night I had four adults/ one 9 year old, a 10 month old and a 4 month old adding to the liveliness and spirit of my home on which would normally be a quiet, dull Tuesday night for me. Dinner last night proved to be the furthest thing from dull and nothing short of spectacular. One need not go to great extremes to plan a nice little dinner. I figured it was Tuesday after all and I needn't stress about preparing things like beggar's purses or beef wellington (? I had to think of something).
Anyhow, no food photos - sorry... but here is the tablescape, flowers and menu!

Table set for five

Supermarket flowers...again! Love my grocery blooms! Tip: Stick with one color, vary the textures and be creative. I bought four different types of flowers, doubled up on each (because I like compact arrangements) and went to work snipping and sorting and arranging.

MENU

Hello...

Grapefruit Margaritas

Marcona almonds

Olives

Hummous & Tabouli

Mixed vegetables and various pita and cracker bread

Storytime...

Marinated beef tenderloin-grilled,sliced atop a

Mixed greens salad with tangerines,feta,onion,pecans,and green beans

Bruschetta

Beautiful red wine- the name escapes me

Goodbye...

Peach cake (homemade- guest brought)

Minted brownies (from same guest :))

Still feeling the effects of these puppies today...Happy Wednesday! xo

In the navy...

2011-05-16T17:10:00.000-04:00

What's there not to love about blue and white? I am literally infatuated with navy and white. I wear it quite often because it's easy, smart, looks polished and put together and classic. Sounds typical and boring of a reason, I know, but it's true. I love nothing more than a navy sweater, white pants, belt, bold necklace and wedges! To me - that is effortless dressing no matter what. Here are some inspiring layouts from Bazaar magazine as well as some of my blue and white picks! Happy Summer Shopping! xo

My latest acquisition -this dipped tote which serves the following purposes: Diaper bag, day bag, magazines, ipad storage, water bottle, snacks. The best tote ever! Love this for my summer travels!

Gorgeous little wedge...navy and cream by Tory Burch.

Just got these soludos blue and white seersucker shoes. HOTTEST summer shoe. And inexpensive! So if they hurt or fall apart, your heart or your wallet won't!

Tie dye halter dress from Banana Republic looks just right for summer fun!

Casual cool navy and white striped sweatshirt from J.Crew

A great pair of white jeans never fails. I have several. They are a staple. Straight leg, wide leg, flair, ones to wear w/heels, ones to wear with flats... You get the idea.

I adore these earrings. I have them in green. Love like this can be found here.

Silver and Gold bangles add a little effortlessness to any look

Love this one piece suit with the lace tie in front.

Baby's gotta look chic too in the summer sun...Dying over this dress!

My minor obsession with blue and white stripes. Top left, bottom left = pregnant pics. Gutsy to wear horizontal stripes!!! Not thinking clearly!

Black and Yellow....

2011-05-13T14:51:00.001-04:00

I have that crazy-fun song in my head constantly... hence a post about the bumblebee color pairing. Put on song 12 to get you in the mood while you read this... the language can be a little tough to handle at times...Just warning ya!

Black and yellow are about as under utilized a color combo as say black and orange is in my world. The latter screams Halloween obviously and the former makes me think of stinging, furry yellow-jackets. However, I am rethinking black and yellow and giving it a chance. After seeing some of these images, I have a newfound appreciation for the duo and when done right, albeit an interior, a photo shoot, or a chic outfit juxtaposed with a NYC cab in the background, the composition isn't as hideous but in fact lurrrvly! Enjoy. Now this song will be on your brain too....

Black and white with pops of yellow look elegant and refreshing on this tropical terrace.

Oh Alessandra... Stunning in bathing suit and caution-tape-yellow vest!

photo by David Burton (trunkarchive)

Cranesbill Wallpaper

I have a lot to say here, but I will it keep it sweet and charming. Adorable.

photo by Stephanie Rausser (trunkarchive)

Firecracker necklace

Ines de la Fressange (photo from Garance)

LR X Suno Erin Lace up Wedge

This post all started with these shoes and that darn song "Black and Yellow" by Wiz Khalifa (you can hear it on my playlist).

Diane von Furstenburg dress

photo by Tommy Ton

Andy Goodwin (trunkarchive)

Giovanna Battaglia looking chic in B & Y scarf!

vogue.com

Leopard Safari ring of black and yellow diamonds. A little O.T.T. but I couldn't resist. Goes with the song....

These Raybans look a little Drew Carey-ish from back in the day....

Hate to end on this note... Ew.

Enjoy the weekend !

Strolling...Missoni Style!

2011-05-12T14:54:00.000-04:00

Here ye, here ye...Calling all baby mommas, past, present and future! Missoni has teamed up with Bugaboo and created bright, colorful, stylish fabrics for the cameleon and the bee.

Bugaboo Bee (left) & Bugaboo Cameleon (right)

A stunning chevron print adorns the bee's canopy while a stimulating block print decorates the cameleon. I want to do a Bugaboo makeover (I currently have a fuchsia canopy) and would love the zigzag but am limited to the block print. I digress.

The bassinet that is available with the cameleon. So fun. Very gender neutral in my opinion.

From what I know... this will be made available through Neiman Marcus in July! Happy Summer Strolling!!!!

http://www.bugaboo.com/252

Grocery Getter!

2011-05-07T08:33:00.002-04:00

We've seen this image floating around for a few days now.... I want to insert,"She's just like US!" Yes, royalty even does commoner duties like fetching feminine products and kitchen provisions. I'm not concerned with what she is wearing to perform such domestic task, but more enamored with the grocery cart or shopping trolley, if you're a brit. I am fascinated by the ipad rest,er, clipboard for shopping list maybe? Brilliant!

Publix, if you hear me... get new carts when you open your new Palm Beach store and make sure they have this accoutrement!

Thank you.

The Mother Load

2011-05-06T08:31:00.001-04:00

The Mother

The most beautiful word on the lips of mankind is the word “Mother,” and the most beautiful call is the call of “My mother.” It is a word full of hope and love, a sweet and kind word coming from the depths of the heart. The mother is everything – she is our consolation in sorrow, our hope in misery, and our strength in weakness. She is the source of love, mercy, sympathy, and forgiveness….

Everything in nature bespeaks the mother. The sun is the mother of earth and gives it its nourishment of heart; it never leaves the universe at night until it has put the earth to sleep to the song of the sea and the hymn of birds and brooks. And this earth is the mother of trees and flowers. It produces them, nurses them, and weans them. The trees and flowers become kind mothers of their great fruits and seeds. And the mother, the prototype of all existence, is the eternal spirit, full of beauty and love.

Kahlil Gibran

Carlotta Manaigo

Achim Lippoth

Tommy Ton

Henry Clarke

Chris Craymer (I love the Brit flag in the back and the Cavalier here)

Douglas Friedman (Briget Moynahan looking chic pushing the Bugaboo)

Kelly Wearstler w/sons, by Francois Halard

Tierney Gearon (I would love a little moroccan themed frolic in my life)

Miles Aldridge (isn't this just a classic shot? what alot of moms feel like, I'm sure)

Riccardo Tinelli (I find this pic extraordinary)

Stephanie Rausser

Norman Jean Roy (I'd like to obtain this hat...magnificent!)

Noe Dewitt

My beautiful lyfe with my girl(s)...

On the balcony with my daughter

Showing her the world in St. Barth's

My baptized princess

The early days...when we all didn't sleep

Loves of my life.... Delphine and Paisley:)))

(photos from trunkarchive.com...you can tell which ones I am referring too!)

King and (Mc)Queen of the Ball!

2011-05-04T08:37:00.000-04:00

Perfection.

Stunning.

Tweet pic. Radiant.

Hat Trick Postmortem

2011-05-01T10:24:00.000-04:00

Ok... so since my previous post, I realized my head piece selections were quite tame and conservative based on what we've seen so far!

My top hits and misses are....

Why not start here...? Ok, so at first I was like, "gutsy move" and I sorta liked it (making an apprehensive-are you with me-don't hate me because I like it-kinda face!). There. I said it. While most thought these two (I'm sorry, Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice,respectively) were may-jor fashion don'ts...I liked P.Bea's nude Valentino bow and figured, go big or go home. She went, well, out of control! She had royal balls on Friday! Me likey.

Aaahh.... the couple that went from humble-pie to royal fruit cake. After naming their daughter "Katherine (or Catherine) Elizabeth," Michael and Carole Middleton knew all along they had a royal in the making! Well done ensembles for the billionaires next door.

Good ol'Mumsy... bedecked in her lovely diamond brooch, simple pearls, and looking lovely as a buttercup! Is this is a smile I see here? I'd be smiling too if I rolled up to the Abbey in a new Bentley.

It's a bird, it's a canoe, no, it's Tara Palmer-Tomkinson's structural hat? She took electric blue, rhinoplasty, and other female anatomy,er head gear, to a whole other level.

Just because she's Posh, doesn't mean she gets a free pass, but she did look chic in all black. I mean, I am surprised she didn't go body-con for her choice of dress. She looked bigger in her shapeless dress than she normally would appear. Fortunately, all eyes were above her chin. Her gorgeous face, long pony and amazing hat were all she needed. Oh, and having Mr. Beckham at your side doesn't hurt either. Love.

Zara Phillips. She just looks so dramatic and lovely. Very appropriate.

This one is boring for style but love the color. That's all I have to say about lovely Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and Prince Daniel of Sweden.

Saved the best for last... Looks like a royal version of Hefner's girlfriends. I thought these sisters were ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS on the highest level! Flawless little Barbie Dolls-those Spencer girls are... Twins Lady Amelia and Lady Eliza (18), and Lady Kitty (20). Aaahh, to be young, beautiful, rich and royal.

Hat Trick

2011-04-27T10:24:00.000-04:00

Only two more days to go until the Royal Wedding....Everyone that's invited is losing their heads (pun intended) thinking about what they will don their lids with come the Big Day. Think the stylish and outlandish (depending) head pieces that Mr. Phillip Treacy, irish milliner extraordinaire, has created will stun the Queen? I think most people will chose an appropriate hat or fascinator to adorn their face shape and hair style. However... if you really want to ruffle the Queen's feathers and upstage the bride ~ show up in one of these...!

Remember this number that Carrie, I mean SJP wore to the premier of SATC?

Swept away in feathers (poor image, sawwrrryyy)

What am I looking at? Where's my espresso?

I doubt anyone will be wearing black to the afternoon wedding but....

IF I were to be in black, I'd be strutting like this...

If I were to wear butterflies, they'd be in a red nest like this:

Or a rainbow butterfly afro like this...

Definitely no hiding here!

This is the "I don't care you can't see past me" hat, or the Self-Centered hat

The "I can't see this hat is so heavy hat"

Small, delightful fascinator. Safe choice.

Orange you glad I added a bright, bold hat to the mix?

Frankly my dear, I don't give a damn if it rests on my ear and not on my head.

Do I wear this to the wedding or the derby? Decisions, decisions...

Simple, quiet, structured headband. Sweet.

Break out the kilo bricks, we're going for a ride. Bad joke. If you get it.

Isabella Blow (double entendre -see above) in her Treacy finery.

If I had a Golden, I'd so outfit him in a ship fascinator. And he'd be the Best Dog in the wedding, too.

And if I had a horse...you guessed it..

And if you can't decide what the heck hat to wear...just wear 'em all!

Images from google and trunkarchive.com

Hopped up!

2011-04-22T07:50:00.001-04:00

Off to Marco Island for the weekend! Enjoy your Easter and cheers to chocolate bunnies, peeps, jelly beans, and other delightfuls you might find in your swag basket! Wouldn't it be so great if you really did find Louboutins in your haul? That's one fabulous bunny! xo

(photo by Sofia Sandrez and Mauro Mongiello at trunkarchive.com)

Calypso hit the bullseye!

2011-04-20T11:04:00.000-04:00

Calypso St. Barth's, the luxe resortwear/lifestyle brand launches their line for Target May 1st! Summery bright colored dresses, boho crochet bikinis, infant and toddler apparel (excuse me?!)jewelry, and eclectic moroccan inspired housewares and home accessories will have us running, not walking through the storefront doors. Calypso will be at Target through June...of course while supplies last. Get on it!

Darling navy blue ruffled cotton dress for daily outings.

Cute casual cotton dress which would be AMAZING with bold yellow beads and yellow wedges! (Turquoise is so predictable...yawn).

This crochet bikini and the vest are an homage to all the 70s trends that have made a return (again). Cute w/denim too!

Turquoise is flattering on everyone. This necklace dresses up white, navy, brown, khaki, gray, pink, orange...Should I just say it's a staple?

Now if this doesn't smack me in the face as a Tory Burch knock off, I don't know what does! It's a great Tory lookalike, though. I love this clutch alot!

Don't we all want to wrap ourselves in easy breezy cotton scarves in the dead of summer? To look chic, yes we do!

Anthropologie - eat your heart out.

No junk in this trunk. Teapot comes in coral too!

Stunning platter, perfect for bridal showers/picnics/birthdays/hanging on your wall in a series as art.

We all want a tiered tray for that one time a year we host a party or a friend borrows for a cupcake presentation. This isn't a price commitment either, so don't think, just buy.

Aaaahhhh..the pouf. Ubiquitous in many a design magazine and now for the masses. If you missed your chance at buying one at ABC Carpet and Home (among other places), now is the time to get on a trend that has seen it's day...but for the price, why not?

Love for Elephants

2011-04-18T10:54:00.002-04:00

Feeling inspired by the movie version of the book, Water For Elephants, which is in theaters this week has me going (pea)nuts over Reese Witherspoon's circus shoot with Peter Lindbergh for Vogue. Elephants are my favorite animal and their beauty is captured in some of the most famous, magnificent images below. Enjoy. I can't wait to see this movie!!

Photos above by Peter Lindbergh for Vogue

Norman Jean Roy

Arthur Elgort

Richard Avedon

Bruce Weber

Norman Jean Roy

Lee Jenkins

Raymond Meier

Sheila Metzner

My latest addition to my stationery stash! Love these handpainted notecards by John Robshaw.

All other photos w/photo credits are from trunkarchive.com

The Cookie That Never Was....

2011-04-15T23:27:00.000-04:00

If I shake my Magic 8 Ball right now.... my odds of serving these cookies at a bridal shower are slim to none. Outcome: Not So Good. Let me give you the run down... Recipe: Martha Stewart Baking Handbook/Cheesecake Thumbprint Cookies - sidebar: my addition of Silver French Dragees for flair. Flavor output: Sensational. Balanced. Adult sophisticate. Subtle buttery, crumby, flakey cookie and sweet but not too sweet cheesecake-ish center. The cookie on it's own - not desirable in my opinion. The gooey center - tasty like cream cheese frosting. One bite on the whole, all flavors and textures coming together? Kismet. So I succeeded there. Where did I fail?

My cookies look nothing like the book's photograph, all pure white center, fluffy like new fallen snow. My cookies look like a dog pee'd in that new fallen snow as the cheesecake center has a yellow tinge (granted idarkroom doctored artsy photo above isn't helping my case). These cookies are FRA-GEE-LAY! As in fragile on the highest level. I've had several casualties (breaking, crushing, digesting in my belly) therefore my yield is flirting with the number of about fifteen or sixteen when there should be about thirty. My party tomorrow shouldn't have more than about 18 people. But I shouldn't be concerned. I won't be serving up these time-sucking cookies, now, will I?

They are in refrigeration mode until morn. I will test the cookies again, thus reducing my yield and bringing the number down even less. That's ok. My glorious silver banana leaf platter is narrow and can't hold many cookies to begin with. They will look like pieces of art. All six cookies. And that's if they make it in the car ride over to the soiree. Thank goodness I'm not in charge of desserts! This was a blitzkrieg cookie number. So no pressure. Except for the pressure I put on myself to be like Martha! Rats. Another cookie bites the dust!

CHEESECAKE THUMBPRINT COOKIES

Yield: About 3 dozen
Ingredients:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
1/8 plus ¼ teaspoon salt
2 large egg yolks
1 ½ teapsoon sour cream
¼ teaspoon vanilla
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups all-purpose flour
Directions:
1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy for about three minutes. Beat in ¼ cup sugar and 1/8 tsp. salt until smooth. Mix in one egg yolk, sour cream and vanilla. Cover and put in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat together butter, ½ cup sugar and ¼ tsp. salt until creamy and combined. Mix in the last egg yolk until well-incorporated. Gradually add flour and mix until combined.
4. Scoop out level tablespoons worth of the dough and roll into balls. Place balls onto parchment-lined or greased baking sheets. Using the handle end of a thick wooden spoon, or your finger, make an indentation in the center of each ball.
5. Place into the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and carefully use your thumb (or the end of the same wooden spoon) to press the middle of the cookies, remaking the indentations. Place cookies back into the oven, rotating them from their original position, and continue to bake until slightly golden around the edges, about 7 minutes.
6. Remove cookies from the oven and fill the indentations with the cheesecake filling. Place back into the oven and bake for about 8 more minutes, until the filling is set. Remove from the oven and transfer cookies to a wire rack to cook completely. When cool, place cookies into the refrigerator to chill before serving.

What's On Your Bookshelf?

2011-04-14T09:43:00.000-04:00

Shown: rows of novels never to be read; stacks of learning literature rarely referenced; piles of kitchy, trendy, pink book jacketed "self-help/how to dress/he's just not that into you/skinny bitch do this/where to wear this and that/how to behave at a cocktail party/decorate like this/jetset like that" style of book that was relevant at one time and now it's passe. Among the dull cliche law books are also the trite yet beloved photos of: US. Family. Our dog. Our baby. We're short on horizontal space so we've littered up the bookshelves....with framed images of memories that are far more important than remembering why I bought The Park Avenue Diet book in the first place.

Everything but the dining table!

2011-04-05T06:00:00.005-04:00

I was just perusing my Topshop catalog and I came across this interesting take on a pattern! I have to say...wearing your interior on your exterior is so clever and cheeky. David Hicks - eat your heart out. Kelly Wearstler...is that your chandelier's missing piece (see gold chandelier necklace on model, top left)? I know Kelly's one to fashion a necklace out of chandelier chain (as I've tried to do in the past, shown below) along with other found objects...so I am sure the brass chandie arm dangling from gossamer thin ribbon is right up her wacky, bold alley! I am especially liking the glam yellow window panels applied to the t-shirt below. Dressing this way sure takes the guesswork out of whether the drapes match the carpet (ahem!)?!

Brass Chandelier necklace; David Hicks-ish interior on dress right

Bold yellow drapery, mirror, rug, a perforated skirt. One stop shop here!

My vintage beads nestled against a cold, metal, pathetic chandelier chain!

Have fun with fashion...These broads above are clearly demonstrating someone did, that's for sure! Perfection is a boring goal and taking yourself too seriously is a drag. Have fun with found objects and mix them with something pretty or unexpected. The outcome could be quite surprising. Own it... even if it's ugly or questionable. If it makes you happy, that's all that matters! xo

Sucre!

2011-04-04T06:00:00.001-04:00

Since I'll be going to London and Paris in a couple months, I have been pulling out my clippings of pastry shops to visit...re-reading articles that sound like "Pastry Tours of Paris"from various mags like Town & Country or Elle Decor, making sure Pierre Herme is on my "Must Do" list in London and of course, Laduree and Pierre Herme in Paris! As you can see, the theme of this is my beloved, worshipped, sick amorous affair with the macaron. I just stumbled upon this heavenly new book, Laduree: The Sweet Recipes that has the recipes to the Laduree macarons. Upon receipt, I will try out a recipe or two and tell you how successful I was in creating something that looks like this:

Or this...

I'm checking out the selection at Laduree in Tokyo! They love pastries there!

Decisions decisions....

Yummmmmmmmm....

I might try this beauty....

Not going here...but it's a vision, no?

Sunday Fun-Day!

2011-04-03T09:22:00.000-04:00

It's a stunning Florida day and we're thinking of hitting the beach! Here's a visual snack for you all today! Enjoy!

photos by Michael Baumgartner for trunkarchive.com

PCH's new stationery...

2011-04-02T06:56:00.006-04:00

Minted.com

April Blackberry Fools Day!

2011-04-01T14:51:00.001-04:00

Blackberry Fool

What's a fool? Such a silly dessert name if you ask me! A fool is an English dessert and usually consists of fruit puree mixed with whipped cream, sugar and sometimes a flavor like rose water. The most common flavor is gooseberry but Martha Stewart used blackberry which is probably just as delicious and when it comes to baking...she ain't no fool! Enjoy!

Ingredients

2 cups blackberries (8 ounces total), plus more for garnish
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

In a blender, combine berries, sugar, and lemon juice; blend until smooth. Pour mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing with a rubber spatula to push through. Discard seeds; transfer 1/2 cup berry puree to a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate; reserve for topping.
In a large bowl, combine cream and vanilla; whip until stiff peaks form. Gently fold remaining berry puree into cream. Spoon mixture into custard cups. Cover loosely and refrigerate 1 hour (or up to overnight). To serve, drizzle blackberry fools with reserved berry puree, and garnish with blackberries.

Recipe and picture from marthastewart.com

Color Wheel of Fortune!

2011-03-30T06:08:00.001-04:00

My latest hair product dream come true... is this bottle of heaven (no, I am not talking about champagne for le cheveax!) for colored hair! It's Chroma Sensitive by Kerastase and it works wonders for preserving color-treated hair! I just got high-lights about 2.5 weeks ago and my color is still bold, vibrant, shiny and still looks fresh from the salon. I usually have hair-color blues a few weeks after getting color and I think this product really has preserved the freshness of my shattered blonde streaks! Chroma Sensitive is used like a shampoo but without the pomp and circumstance of a rich, bubbly lather. You leave it in for about 3 minutes, rinse, then use conditioner. I follow up with Chroma Thermique before blowing out my tresses and I think that adds to the color preservation also. But first and foremost, I highly recommend this gentle cleanser for anyone with color treated hair...which is like everyone I know.

Royal Wedding Reminder!

2011-03-29T06:00:00.004-04:00

April 29th....one month from today! Set your clocks for 11am London time (6am EST) for the wedding of the year! Wills and Katherine become one! Cheers!

(picture from Christian Lacroix and the Tale of Sleeping Beauty by Camilla Morton)

Once a garnish always a garnish?

2011-03-27T13:59:00.003-04:00

All hail kale. It seems like this garnish on fruit and vegetable platters or scattered about a table in a buffet line is showing up everywhere other than where it came from! I'll be honest - I don't really love eating kale but I consume it for it's nutritional benefits. If kale is in a fresh pressed juice, I thoroughly enjoy the outcome. I have had a kale salad, chopped, drizzled in a lemony vinaigrette with thinly sliced parmesan slices gently resting on the mound of greens. Operative word: Parmesan. It made the salad! I recently made a lentil and vegetable soup with kale. I have to admit, I ate around the kale leaves. So what was the point? I won't lie, I try to embrace the "au currant" food of the moment at times, regardless if I am being true to myself of whether I like it - like it, or just tolerate it because it's "good for you" type thing. I do A LOT of the latter. I remember reading last year that grains were the big deal food. Grains like farro showed up everywhere in restaurant cuisine in place of rice or potatoes or polenta. I like grains but I get discouraged when I can't find the small-yield, organic, special grains that some of my recipes require. But I digress. Back to my kale quarry - I think it's the texture. I can't get past the mouth-feel and the fact that it's a garnish in my eyes. Needless to say ~ I will try it again, perhaps tonight...with my grilled filet mignon.

My simple kale salad....

Bunch of kale, washed, ribs removed, then chopped

lemon juice from 1/2 - 1 lemon

toasted pine nuts or toasted walnuts, chopped

olive oil

sea salt

pepper

parmesan shavings

Chop kale and nuts and toss with lemon juice and olive oil to coat leaves. Add a good sea salt and fresh ground pepper. Since these greens have a unique, peppery flavor, I think the best quality olive oil one can find to make the dressing and a great sea salt are imperative to really savoring and enjoying this type of salad. Garnish with fresh shaved parm regg - and voila!

Envious Travels and Anecdotes

2011-03-24T10:10:00.000-04:00

Just in time for Summer... this delightful book, American Fashion Travel: Designers on the Go, that I presume reads like a diary or journal entry of fabulous designers on their travels hits bookshelves this May. I am sure this book will not only inspire with great photos and questions answered,but will give insight to how the sparkly people explore, relax and savor their travels around the world. Among a few American Designers featured, we'll gain insight into the travels of Tommy Hilfiger, Keren Craig and Georgina Chapman of Marchesa, Vera Wang, and David Meister to name a few.

I've already pre-ordered!

Some pages from the book:

images from assouline.com

Lovely Legend

2011-03-23T09:12:00.001-04:00

Remembering the legendary and talented, beautiful model, actress, and activist today ... rest in peace Elizabeth Taylor.

Getting Crunchy

2011-03-21T10:54:00.001-04:00

Spring has sprung. I have a new found appreciation for the plantlife on my terrace and have taken care into watering my palms daily as well as supplying them with much needed nutrients. Not one for being a green thumb, I am turning over a new leaf (pun intended) and getting my hands dirty in our "garden" of sorts. I also have this urge to supply others with nutrients as well... especially my dear friends who have just recently given birth to little angels. If anyone knows.. a new mom needs her healthy snacks! When Paisley was first born, I never ate a proper meal and was always digging into gummy bears in the cupboard...what I DO NOT recommend -but it was quick, easy and stared me in the face! I justified it because I was consuming nothing else. But that's another story.

I came across a granola recipe and figured how pleasant that would be to make and deliver to my new mom friends. Who doesn't love a homemade food offering? If it's healthy, that's even more of a bonus!

I tried a recipe and made a few adjustments based on personal preferences and keeping in mind those that may or may not be breastfeeding. I substituted honey for agave nectar and omitted cocoanut because I personally do not like the texture. But that's just me. You can also sub out any nut or mix it up.

My recipe and substitutions are as follows:

3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans (or almonds, walnuts)
3 tablespoons packed brown sugar (I used light)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt ( plus a dash more)
1/3 cup agave nectar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup assorted dried fruit (preferably unsweetened)

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment. Mix the first six ingredients in a large bowl. Stir agave nectar and oil in small saucepan, heat on medium low until smooth and combined. Pour agave mixture over the oat mixture and toss. Spread on prepared baking sheet. Bake until golden, stirring periodically, for about 35-40 minutes.
Place sheet on rack, stir granola; cool. Mix in the dried fruit and enjoy.

After about 20 minutes, granola gets nice and golden...stir it up!

After granola has cooled, toss it with the dried fruit! Yum.

Top O' the morning to ya!

2011-03-17T07:10:00.001-04:00

I'm seeing green in an unconventional way for St. Patty's Day.... Here are my style picks for Living in Your Finest Environment today. Fashion, baubles, home accessories and lifestyle accoutrements --- got it covered.

Clockwise from top left: Chair, rug, and green dress -www.anthropologie.com. Cloverleaf place cards - carrotandstickpress.com. Earrings at www.jennifermillerjewelry.com. Quartz tray at www.plantationdesign.com.Cuff and necklace at www.vivre.com. Jade pottery at www.potterybarn.com. Shoes at www.modcloth.com. Spinning tops accessories at www.plantationdesign.com

Thinking of you, Japan...

2011-03-15T08:34:00.001-04:00

The Golden Palace (photo by me!)

Having fond memories reflecting on our trip to Tokyo and Kyoto in 2009. I really love the Japanese culture, their sophistication, politeness and respect towards one another. I believe they will emerge a stronger country and culture post this disaster. My thoughts, prayers and love are with the people of Japan.

Fortification

2011-03-15T06:22:00.000-04:00

This was sent via snail mail by my father... Apparently he has me quite figured out!

Deep Breath....

2011-03-14T07:11:00.008-04:00

Love Adorned Necklace (photo by Steven Crawford)

No words.

I love this necklace. Love me back by going to Love Adorned in NYC - 269 Elizabeth Street near Houston to be exact and purchasing for me. Just kidding. Saw this in the Best of New York Shopping Guide and it really got me right here (tapping my sternum). Sigh.

Stripes, chevron, it works!

2011-03-13T11:59:00.001-04:00

See! I put the ensemble together from my accessory obsession post and voila! Just a casual Sunday afternoon en route to a delightful lunch with my husband, baby and dog. XO

Embarrassed at how inexpensive and NOT fancy this outfit is....

The Deets:

Old Navy striped shirt

Urban Outfitters skirt

Anthropologie necklace

Topshop booties

Baby's 1st Easter = DRESS SHOPPING!

2011-03-13T06:00:00.001-04:00

I am addicted to shopping for my darling daughter...but Easter gives me an excuse to go big or go home in the realm of special dresses. She looks great on the daily, but Easter is her time (and mom's) to step it up!
Debating the following...

Some dresses are either Baby Biscotti or Will Beth Girls from www.bestdressedchild.com and dresses #3-6 are from Spring Flowers by Fleurisse. Dress #2 we own and have not worn...it's a contender in the Easter dress hunt!

And so it begins...

2011-03-12T19:49:00.002-05:00

Already into the shoes ...

Gordo Martes!

2011-03-08T14:37:00.001-05:00

That translates about as well as "Ochocinco" but you get the point. Fat Tuesday. It's Pazcki Day (pronounced PUNCH-key) to us Poles. Not the healthiest thing to eat, but I decided to set forth on a mission to find a paczki in my local West Palm Beach neighborhood. Thanks to Google, I simply entered "Polish bakery West Palm Beach" and poof... I get a delightful european bakery on Dixie which specializes in Polish and German deli meats. I gathered my belongings (wallet, sunglasses, keys and infant) and hopped in the car to get my deep fried piece of dough filled with a sweet confiture.

My jelly donut (to the layman) resulted in this:

The "drop" of filling was of a raspberry substance, smooth texture, no seeds, but phony in taste. The dough was dry and the top was stingily dusted with what seemed to be powdered sugar. This bad boy gets an F for failing to make me weep for anything other than consuming needless calories.

Now here's what these beauties should really look like:

Nice dusting of powdered sugar....

A little glaze on top never hurt....

A decent amount of filling oozing out...nice. Dough is a little dense. My grandma made them sort of like this .... (she was stingy on the jelly, though, too).

Happy Fat Tuesday! Indulge today! Get back on the wagon tomorrow! XO

Lively in White

2011-03-05T08:39:00.000-05:00

Blake looks gorgeous in all white - Chanel - head to toe. Well, the heels look like Louboutins and sidebar: I love the ballerina toe shoe look! Featured: Spring 2011 Bowling Bag in white caviar leather. The emerald earrings make a stunning statement against her beautiful blanca ensemble. What a life... Chanel dinner in your honor at La Grenouille and the face of their handbag line. XOXO

(pic from guestofaguest.com)

Dum-de-dum-dum-D-O-Mmmm!

2011-03-02T22:58:00.001-05:00

Pardon the lousy pic, but I loved the installation of all the Warhol Tribute Dom Perignon labels at the liquor store in Palm Beach. I want the pinkish label (seen as orange here) bottles at Paisley's FIRST birthday in July...for adult consumption only. Duh.

And the award goes to....

2011-02-28T09:26:00.003-05:00

Me! For making these A-MAZING cookies last night!

Granola, dried cranberry, chocolate chip cookies

For delicious recipe...click here

Napkins - Anthropologie

Spring is in the Air....

2011-02-27T12:48:00.001-05:00

My arrangement of purple and persimmon tulips inside a glass water pitcher are just the thing to get me thinking about Spring, Easter and gorgeous weather. The latter has been evident the past two weeks! Love living in Florida while the north seems to be still experiencing frosty flakes! Happy Sunday! Gonna start preparing my Oscar Party (for deux) tonight! Xo

Latest Accessory Obsession

2011-02-25T22:25:00.003-05:00

I just got this necklace from Anthropologie and let me tell you how many accessory prayers it has answered:

1. I can wear it with this red/white and blue skirt, and white tee (or a navy and white horizontal striped shirt...yes stripes and zig-zag, they do work!)

Urban Outfitters

2. I can toss it on with a navy/white striped long sleeve tee and white jeans to add more interest to staple garments

3. Orange solids and purple solids - they now have a necklace to jump off of! I think I have a few Michael Stars tees from yesteryear in these colors....

4. I can wear with black and white tribal prints if I owned any....

5. I can pair it with an all white ensemble.... Anlo white jeans, white button up by Brooks Brothers or J. Crew white tee, black and nude Roger Vivier flats - boom, done, out the door, looking fly! And that's for going to the grocery store or getting my nails did!

6. I can wear it with any style of denim.... any multi-colored dress...pump life into any khaki number....

I believe I've made my point clear... I can tell this necklace, "You complete me" and I think now that I've shared, it'll complete you, too. Now if you see me in this necklace for the rest of season, please just nod or smile, and comment on how fabulous I look...and hopefully we won't show up at the same event wearing our saving grace!

Besos, smooches, kisses, XO XO

Paisley's Nursery

2011-02-25T21:53:00.003-05:00

I've waited quite a while to post these pictures and it's really because I haven't had the time to be informative with them as far as revealing sources, etc. So my apologies if you've seen these already on Facebook months ago! I loved doing this room and hope to do more, be it for myself or other expectant parents. I remember fondly beginning this project of redoing our guest room, literally a year ago. Now, Paisley's bedroom is our favorite room in the condo. I really wanted a nursery that was sophisticated, girly, light-hearted and eclectic. I also wanted the room's furnishings to be able to transition through different stages of Paisley's life without having to re-think things too much as she gets older.

I am not for very pastel hues and overly baby-ish motifs. If you think about it, the nursery is really a haven for the parents and a soothing place for the baby to sleep and get dressed (and play if you have the space). But a baby doesn't care if there is a border of elephants and trains encircling their room or walls covered in silk damask. That being said, I knew that I loved pink and coral for Paisley's bedroom. I didn't want a pastel baby pink either. I wanted a more saturated pink and tempered that sweetness with some peaches and corals. My advice is to never overthink a concept or obsess about colors matching. Focus on the colors "blending" and add several layers of pinks and corals/peaches or whatever the palette may be...and have fun selecting complementary accessories to highlight those colors. If you're dead set on a certain color or two, you will run into the predicament of never finding the right shade of (insert color) to match and you will think the room clashes. And think about it...if you have two unlike colors but in the same saturation and intensity or pattern but they don't necessarily "go together", if they aren't touching each other , meaning they don't sit next to each other like a carpet meets a wallcovering or a chair pillow sits on a bed, doesn't mean that the color or object can't work. I know it takes a skilled eye to sometimes make these decisions, which is why Interior Designers are in business, but designing and decorating can be really fun and adventurous if you have an open mind about the process.

Inspiration

Reality

1. Walls: Benjamin Moore 003 Coral
2. Wallpaper: Osborne & Little #W5513-04
3. Drapery: Sunsilks: Body - Dupioni Pink Isle BSD254, Bows - Dupioni Coral Peach BSD249
4. Bookshelves : Pottery Barn
5. Birdcage wallhanging: Restoration Hardware
6. Armoire and dresser: Young America by Stanley Furniture
7. Crib and bedding: www.poshtots.com
8. Chair and ottoman: www.poshtots.com
9. Chair fabric: Duralee 73000 Coral 31, Skirt: Raoul Textiles Pasha Rose 818 B63, Ottoman: Raoul Textiles Marbella Rose 631 B63
10. Drapery hardware: Restoration Hardware
11. Chandelier: ABC Carpet & Home
12. Louis XV Shell Mirror, metal horse and ceramic lamb: www.wisteria.com
13. Funny Girl poster found online and had framed
14. Alphabet was a piece of wrapping paper from Kate's Paperie and had framed
15. Chalkboard squares from Pottery Barn and I drew the animals
16. Lamps: bases were vintage and shades from Alan J. Alan in West Palm Beach
17. Nightstands: Refinished them from existing espresso finish to pink and coral hues.
18. Floor Lamp: Restoration Hardware

All photos by Brandie Herbst, top photo from iphone - hipstamatic app! Love it!

Va Va Verde!

2011-02-23T20:48:00.002-05:00

Last season's emeralds reincarnated themselves into this season's turquoises, tourmalines and peacock blues! No shortage of color for Spring/Summer 2011 at the New York shows....and this lagoon hue is sure to turn heads and enter closets everywhere!

Anna Sui

Badgley Mischka

Band of Outsiders

Issa (www.shopbop.com)

Mulberry

Dolce Vita Jollen (www.piperlime.com)
(This is where the inspiration began...I wondered what does one do w/this color of shoe? Then I thought outside the box and just may order this....!)

Now my other fave: Coral... thrown in for good measure!

Images from www.wwd.com except for website mentioned above.

How do I love thee?

2011-02-11T15:36:00.003-05:00

(Photo from www.marthastewart.com)

Let me count the ways... in which I can blow kisses to the camera or kiss my beloved. Here's a few ~~cheesy~~ endearing/candid shots... Happy Valentine's Day, lovies! XO

Muah!

Poof!

I love you, Delphine!

Tipsy smooch to husband!

Charity Event, Palm Beach

Flying high on love!

Hawaii

Crazy love smooch!

Mom's wedding, Michigan

Kissing the sculpture! What color am I here?

Cabo San Lucas

Kissing to "Yes" - Chateau Le Creyeres, Reims

Kissing my little Paisley

Home.

Sad Sad Sigh, er Cy...

2011-01-31T14:21:00.000-05:00

As in Twombly that is...

The book featured in my "Favorite Things" post from way back when... Well, it was gifted to me by the Husb for Christmas only to be told that there aren't any in stock and I won't be receiving that present now. That calls for major RATS! So bummed........... You always want you can't have even MORE, once it was dangled like a carrot and then Amazon bursts your bubble.

Dagger to heart....

A few of my favorite things...

2010-12-17T21:56:00.001-05:00

No, I am not channeling Oprah (those were some good episodes, btw) with my favorite things, but it's that time of year again where I genuinely feel it's always better to give than to receive. As I peruse the sites on the World Wide Web, I can't help but do a little "window" shopping for myself while I put others' gifts in the proverbial basket! Here's a few treasures, big or small, that I have my eyes on ~let's see if the elves at the North Pole have taken note!

My loves of skulls.... translated in this dainty necklace on silk cord.

http://www.vivre.com/product/crystal_skull_pendant_necklace

Yum... lobster or crab mini pot pies ~ Seriously?

http://www.deandeluca.com/ViewProduct.aspx?ProductID=160213356

Oscar de la Renta multi-color stone bracelet adds instant sparkle and exuberance to a simple outfit. Love this alone or layered with other baubles and bangles. The more the merrier, eh?

http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/106964#

A part of me just died... Put a piece of jewelry INSIDE this jewelry (box). Literally. Weeping for this quartz gem!

http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?subCategoryId=&id=093577&catId=HOME-BATH-JWLBOX&pushId=HOME-BATH-JWLBOX&popId=HOME-BATH&sortProperties=&navCount=70&navAction=middle&fromCategoryPage=true&selectedProductSize=&selectedProductSize1=&color=095&isSubcategory=&isProduct=true&isBigImage=&templateType=D

Who doesn't love 2-in-1 performance kithenware?

http://www.surlatable.com/category/id/102071.do

Happy feet! These are deliciously optimistic, tacky, fun and bold. New Years Eve begs for a statement stomp!

http://www.modcloth.com/store/ModCloth/Womens/Shoes/Heels/Make+Way+Heel

Chic and perfect. Size medium. Thanks.

http://mangoshop.com/ficha.faces?id=34439567&state=she_400_US

Because I've been obsessed with your scribbles that I duplicate it in every piece of artwork I attempt to do....

http://www.amazon.com/Cy-Twombly-Catalogue-Raisonne-Sketchbooks/dp/3829604858/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1292640517&sr=8-15

Santa baby, now hurry down the chimney tonight (or arrive in a Panamera Turbo with a big bow on it for moi)!

Fashion's Night In...

2010-09-10T12:45:00.004-04:00

While I'll be one of the unfashionable "staying in" this evening (t-shirt, cozy pants, blotchy makeup, hunched back/baby in tow -what an unfortunate visual, ok maybe not that bad)... I will for sure be watching live streams of the fashion shows over the next few days! Great sites to see the shows along with times/dates are posted on the House of Lavande blog http://houseoflavandeblog.blogspot.com/!!

A new discovery that I'd like to share in honor of fashion week:

Framed collages out of newsprint done in fashion, animals, chairs, etc. By Paste: pastesf.com

Fashionably Late

2010-07-18T12:43:00.002-04:00

Life is about to change tomorrow... I can feel it. Will keep you posted on delivery, hormones, pain, meds, and the beauty of bringing baby girl into the world!

Wouldn't this make an exquisite push present?