From These Lips

Goal #88: Walk somewhere instead of drive

2012-02-09T11:39:00.000-08:00

Another DZP Goal down! Yippie! Now that I'm all settled in my new place, I've decided that Miss Lulu Belle deserves a good walk in the morning- although she totally disagrees with this and clearly would rather be snuggled up in bed at 7am. I know this because she literally drags her feet when she figures out what we are doing. Such a personally this dog, definitely a DIVA.

This am we headed down to our local Starbucks. With only one lonely coffee pod left, I decided I'd kill ~~two~~ three birds with one stone- walk the Diva, get my morning caffeine fix, and complete this DZP goal. This morning was amazing for so many reasons, which of course I will share with you all :)

morning exercise = cheerful Madalyn, and tired, less mischievous puppy

using my Starbucks app for the first time to pay- yeay for technology!

new blonde roast and Valentines day cups at Starbucks

repp'n the Titan pride with my CSUF sweatshirt

finding new secret tunnel down to the dam (hello weekend picnicking spot!)

discovering a super cool street called "Mimosa Dr"

(how does one get to live there and is it a requirement to drink Mimosa's on a daily basis- if so I'm in)

Happy Thursday Lovelies. I hope you Thursday is as cheerful as mine

New Shoes to Obsess About: Ruthie Davis

2012-02-09T11:15:00.000-08:00

I love finding new brands or designers! I came across this one the other day, Ruthie Davis. Now, I probably wont be walking around in her shows anytime soon, but one can dream and one can certainly admire this lovelies! Here are some of my favorite ones:

Cupcake in Coral

Cake in Honey and Bubblegum

Microcompact in Tan and Gold

Who can resist a shoe named "Cupcake"!! Loving how fierce her new spring line is... watch out with those studs! Seriously lusting after Cupcake!

Goal #74: Ride a beach cruiser down by the beach

2012-02-07T16:18:00.000-08:00

After deciding to spend a weekend away from fixing up the house- we found ourselves cruising up the coast, stopping at some of our favorite local spots along the way. After pausing in Laguna Beach, we decided to visit Newport Beach. This weekend was gorgeous! and just begging for some fun in the sun!

With the need to get some of these DZP goals crossed off my list, I began rattling them off to TK. Parked and ready to have some fun, I headed off to the ladies room. Within the whole 5 minutes I was gone, TK found the bike rental place, purchased the bikes and had them ready for our cruise down the beach.

This is why I love this man. The things he does just surprise me sometime- in an amazing, goofy-smile written across my face way.

The ride down the beach was amazing, we even caught the sunset on the ride back. Perfect Saturday!

Pantone Warm Red

2012-02-07T14:11:00.000-08:00

This packaging design for Pantone Warm Red from Designers Anonymous in London combines two things I love; all things Pantone and wine!

The design was used to send out to clients over the holiday season, and even now with Valentine's Day a week away, I think it is still a super clever idea.

The bottle even has this clever message:

"Add a touch of colour to your cheeks this season, with a glass (or two) of mulled wine. Warmer wishes from Designers Anonymous.”

Adventures in the Kitchen: Spaghetti With Sauteed Chicken And Grape Tomatoes

2012-02-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

Here it is lovelies, the first meal ever cooked in my new home! I love the smell of garlic, and this recipe left the smell lingering in the air- YUM! This was a pretty simple and fast meal to prepare- with lots of possibilities to add and make it your own.

Spaghetti With Sauteed Chicken And Grape Tomatoes

Recipe Courtesy of SkinnyTaste.com
(found using Pinterest)
Serves: 4

Ingredients

2 skinless chicken breast halves
1/2 tsp each of dried oregano and dried basil
~~kosher salt~~ and fresh pepper
8 oz spaghetti (high fiber or low carb)
2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
6 cloves garlic, smashed and coarsely chopped

(I use the jar of already chopped garlic)
4 tsp extra virgin olive oil
4 tbsp chopped fresh basil

** Italian Seasoning

** Jarred Artichoke Hearts

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.

Cut chicken into one inch cubes. Season chicken generously with ~~salt~~, pepper, oregano and basil (I added Italian seasoning- it has most of the same seasonings mentioned here). Heat a large skillet on high heat. When hot, spray with oil and add chicken. Cook about 3-4 minutes, until no longer pink. Remove chicken and set aside.

Add pasta and cook according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.

While pasta cooks, add olive oil to skillet on high heat. Add garlic and sauté until golden brown (do not burn). Add tomatoes (I also added jarred artichoke), ~~salt~~ and pepper and reduce heat to medium-low. Sauté about 4-5 minutes. When pasta is drained, add pasta to tomatoes and toss well. If pasta seems too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water. Add fresh basil and chicken and toss well. Serve and top with good grated cheese.

I liked this recipe for two reasons:

It was healthy and simple
It was easy to modify (notice I crossed off all salt. I'm kinda a sodium nazi)

TK was able to take his bowl and add in all the extra cheese and olive that he wanted, while I preferred to leave mine as is :)

Tis the Season for: Superbowl Commercials

2012-02-06T16:57:00.000-08:00

My favorite part of Superbowl, is the commercials! Here are my fav's for this year

{Simply because of the Ferris Bueller reference and the music.. Chicka Chicka! Although,
I wish it was for a Ferris Bueller Sequel}

{Love the scruffy dog, love that it's a rescue... makes me want to go out and save one now!}

{Love the flash mob and the song... I believe in a thing called Love!}

Now, although these are my favorites, it by no means they are the best. They simply are just my favorites because they are cute, have good music, etc. Truthfully, I think the Super Bowl commercials are just out there to grab your attention, whether or not they make you remember what product they are for.

Weekend Recap

2012-02-06T14:11:00.000-08:00

... Hot Yoga & Sushi Dates...

... N64 Mario Cart Race Offs...

... Bar Hopping Up the Coast ...

... Mojitos with a View...

... Newport Beach Beach Cruising ...

... Cabo Cantina 32 oz Margarita Madness ...

... Sunset on the Sand ...

... Love, love and more love ...

... Italian Style Gelato, before Dinner ...

... Hippty, Hop Back down the Coast ...

... Italiano Dinner for Two please ...

... 12 hrs of much needed sleep ...

... Backyard Fruit Picking ...

... Freshly Picked and Juiced Orange Juice ...

... Super Bowl ...

.... Turning $2 into $25 ...

... Spa relaxing ...

Lusting After: Kate Spade Portola Valley Blaine

2012-02-06T13:36:00.000-08:00

Friday was all about getting this bag. Yep, in a matter of minutes 4 things happened:

Saw the bag on sale at Kate Spade's website.
Called my closest's Kate Spade store to see if they had it instock (yes but only in the black patent)
Found it on Nordstrom's website for an even lower price.
Called Nordstrom and placed it on hold.

And that is how my Friday started- and let's just say that it was an AMAZING day!

I originally saw this bag in taupe, but after seeing this patent black leather, with ostrich embossing version, I was in love. Black will stay cleaner longer and how freak'n fierce does this look! It instantly fab's up any outfit. Oh and the size- sooo much room! Oh the things I can fit in here (not limited to my small yorkie Lulu Belle)

It didn't take long for me to stop lusting after this bag, and actually have it in my hand. Got to love lunch shopping trips to Nordstrom!!

Glamourous in Nude

2012-02-02T09:00:00.000-08:00

Going through my reader I came across these amazing wedding shots from Style Me Pretty. The photos are stunning, but what caught my eye?

THESE GLAMOUROUS SHOES!

I love the shoes! I love how with the nude color they are somewhat discreet (I know, how can anything with a giant bow be discreet) but yet hold there own because they are simply so sexy and feminine! And, a bow! I'm in love! I had to look them up! The shoes pictured about are Valentino Couture Bow Platform Pump, available at Nordstrom! After seeing these baby's I thought I had seen something similar (and in a different price range) at Nordstrom too.

Similar but different, Steve Madden has a pair as well, Rosale! These ones look slightly higher, but still give you the same nude, feminine, bow look.

Valentino's are glamourous, with a price tag of $745
Steve Madden's are glamourous, with a price tag of $160.

Which one would you choose?

Personally, for my wedding day- Bring on the Valentino's! I will totally splurge on my wedding day shoes!

Want to stay up-to-date with my latest shoe finds? Follow my "For the Shoe Obsessed" board on Pinterest!

Turquoise Fever with Stella & Dot

2012-02-01T14:32:00.000-08:00

When I saw these stacked bangles by Stella & Dot, my heart leaped! My mind instantly starting picturing all the fun summer dresses I could pair them with! Perfect for a beachy maxi dress and even an elegant outfit for a night out on the town! Oh the possibilities! I know it's only February, but out here in Cali it seriously feels like summer! And these bangles just got me thinking of the warm summer sun beaming down on my pale wintery skin!

The bangles are sold separately, but I love how they all look together. From top to bottom: Paige Enamel Bangle, Sloane Enamel Bangle and Sunset bangle. I don't think I could choose just one!

Tis the Season for: Painting

2012-01-30T13:46:00.000-08:00

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... walls that is! Oh the excitement of being a homeowner! This weekend was filled with choosing what grey shade would be painted in the kitchen, sitting room and hallways. Do you have a favorite paint brand you use? I've used Vaslpar in the past, so I decided to use them once again. What color did I decide on? Polished Silver and Almost Charcoal! Can't wait to share the before and afters with you!

Weekend Recap

2012-01-30T12:24:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that weekend has come and gone, and it is once again Monday. This weekend was far from glamourous, but there are a couple of fun highlights (and some not so much).

... Fun furniture moving Friday...

... Pizza Night & S'mores ...

... Sliding down the banister ...

... First night in new house ...

... Unpacking & Cleaning..

... Paint color decision making ...

... Introducing Mr. 20K ...

.... Celebration dinner at the Parental's...

... LOTS of drinks had by all...

... Real Steel...

... Errands, errands, and errands ...

... Dropping lots of bills ...

... Savings Ninja...

... GG visits...

... Fam Bam Chili Night ...

This weekend made a big dent towards getting settled in the new house. Everything is officially there and mostly unpacked! Fridge and pantry and stocked with the very basics. Paint colors have been chosen and purchased! Got lots of stuff on my plate, and I can not wait to see how this house transforms!

Spell it out with CATBIRD Alphabet Rings

2012-01-25T13:25:00.000-08:00

These stackable rings from Catbird let you spell it out with these clever stackable rings. Whether it be your initials, your loved ones or even a cute M & T, these rings are perfect for spelling whatever it is out.

These rings are available in both gold and silver. Besides letters, they also have a heart, star, and ampersand.

I'd love to stack together a cute "MMW" or even an "M & T."

What would you stack together?

Home Sweet Home!

2012-01-25T09:30:00.000-08:00

After 5 months of waiting and dealing with the bank and several counter offers later...

I'M A HOMEOWNER!

What does this mean?

There will be lots of home decor, DIY and Before & After posts coming your way!

Can't wait to start my decorating and make this baby my own.. stay posted!

Follow Up: As a Graphic Designer...

2012-01-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

Let's just say that 2012 has started off as the year to totally procrastinate. I barely got these Happy New Year Cards out before the 1st of the year... and here I'm 25 days later finally blogging about it. Woopsies.

Of course any card from me is bound to have some glitter and sparkle to it! You can check out my inspiration here! I just wanted to send out a simple lil something to let all my friends know I was thinking about them, so this postcard style note was my way of saying hello!

As far as assembly of these cards, it was pretty simple. Just design, print and crop. The finishing touches of glitter were applied using the end of a pencil (eraser) dipped in glue (perfect size for the circles I created) and then sprinkling glitter on top. Let dry and you have a fabulous sparkly card to send out!

Feeling FIERCE...

2012-01-24T13:10:00.000-08:00

I don't ever wear red lipstick unless its part of a costume fo some sort (Flapper, Devil, you get the idea).

However, today I was feeling a lil fierce and wild after being inspired by my lil sis to rock some bright, sexy, red lips.

Thanks for the inspiration sissy! And who knew I could pull off this color! Got lots of compliments thrown my way down in the Cafe today! (that kinda rhymes lol)

The color I'm rocking here is Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Love that Red (which is exactly what I was told today "I love that Red lipstick, you can totally pull that off.) I paired it with my Jessica Simpson Juicy lipgloss from her Dessert line. I'm probably aging myself when I mention this- I've had this stuff forever and never used it. Pros is that is tastes delicious and plumps your lips!

Just goes to show, it's worth it to try something new.

Weekend Recap

2012-01-24T10:40:00.000-08:00

.....Friday night date night....

....Tommy the "Boss"....

....Sports bar and a house party....

....WAR....

....Rain rain go away....

....Moving everything out of storage...

.... My 7 man motley crew....

....Much needed Mani and Pedi....

...Entourage marathon...

....Early risers....

....Starbucks, Ted's breakfast burritos...

....Romatical breakfast with a view....

....Lifeguard tower chillin....

....The Birds....

....Laughter, lots of laughter....

....IKEA shopping....

....Surprise Sunday Date Day....

.... Miniature golfing x3....

....Go carts....

....Lazer tag....

...Yard House....

As you can see, this weekend was an EPIC one. Filled to the brim with things to do, and lots of fun times. I have to say I'm so blessed to have such an amazing family and boyfriend. This weekend marked the 3rd time I have moved in less then 12 months. Yes, I've been a little bit of a nomad since my move from Laguna Beach; spending time in Lake Forest and San Juan Capistrano, but now finding my permanent home in Laguna Niguel.

Goal #6: Carve my name on a tree

2012-01-17T11:59:00.000-08:00

There is nothing better than a spontaneous day filled with random adventures and drinks with good friends. Let's just say that the completion of this goal was fueled by several margaritas, the cool ocean air, and carpe diem, "sieze the day."

It went something like this...

After enjoying our meal and liters of Margaritas at our favorite Mexican spot in Laguna Beach, I was left with my butter knife starring me in the face after the table was cleared. I also so happend to be sitting next to this beautiful tree- when I say sitting, I was sitting on a bench that had begun to be over taken by this massive overgrown tree.

Knife + Tree = Goal #6 just asking to be completed.

And so, on this beautifully (and oddly warm) winter night, I carved my initials "MMW" into a tree. I couldn't have asked for a more memorable way to complete this goal. Now, whenever we indulge in some Margs and chips and salsa at our favorite spot, we will have out signature spot.

Adventures in the Kitchen: Hazelnut Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

2012-01-05T16:40:00.000-08:00

With all the hustle and bussle of the holiday season, I almost forgot to share with you one of my newest recipes! These is the second cookie recipe I brought with me to Miss Erin DeHart of The Lime & The Coconut's 2nd annual cookie exchange party.

Hazelnut Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

Recipe Courtesy of Smitten Kitchen
(found using Pinterest)
Yields: 2 dozen
(I ended up with a little under 24 cookies)

Ingredients

1 almost-full cup (4 ounces) hazelnuts, toasted, skinned and cooled (Suggest cutting this down to 1/2 or 3/4 cup, otherwise hazelnut taste is a bit overwhelming, and I love hazelnuts)
2/3 cup sugar
1 cup plus 1 tablespoon flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate (First pass I used chocolate baking discs; 2nd time I used a Hershey's Kiss in the middle- I would recommend this one since they melt nicer and there is more chocolate to cut the hazelnut flavor.)

Preparation
Pulse hazelnuts, flour, and salt in a food processor until finely ground. (Be careful not to grind to a paste.) Transfer to a bowl and stir in butter, egg, and extract until combined well. Chill dough, covered, until firm, about 30 minutes.

Put oven rack in middle position and preheat oven to 350°F.

Drop level tablespoons of dough 1 inch apart onto 2 ungreased baking sheets. Roll dough into balls (I just used a cookie scoop or melon ball scoop for this step). Chill until slightly firm, about 10 minutes.

Press one piece of chocolate firmly into the top of each ball of cookie dough and bake, 1 sheet at a time, until tops are pale golden and undersides are golden, 10 to 12 minutes. Be careful not to overbake. Trust me, these go from "oh they could use another minute" or "crap, overdone." Transfer cookies to a rack and cool completely.

These cookies are delicious! I'm a huge fan of hazelnut! Only thing is that they are somewhat involved to make and are rather time consuming to prepare. If you are a hazelnut lover like me, I definitely recommend trying this recipe!

Goal #14: Tour a Brewery

2012-01-04T12:22:00.000-08:00

The last day of 2011 was quite a successful and productive one! With plans to spend NYE in San Diego, we decided it was time to visit Stone Brewery... yet again! Last time was visited we weren't able to make it on a tour, but another DZP goal was completed: Fly a Kite!

Saturday started off like the last trip: "Sorry the 12 pm tour is full, you can start lining up a for the 2 pm tickets at 12 pm."

UGH, frustration central! Seriously, what's a girl with a goal to do? Determined to complete this goal, we sat and had a beer while deciding if staying for another 3 hours (yes we got here at 11 am and were drinking by 11:10 am).

After some liquid courage (courage, confidence, whatever you want to call it). I decided to strut back up the counter and inquire about the 2 pm tour... aaand just like that I had 2 tickets for the 12 pm tour. WOOT WOOT! The look on TK's face was priceless as he said, "How did you pull that off?!?" All he needs to know is that his girlfriends still got it!

The tour was great, short and sweet at only about 35minutes. Best part: free beer! Everyone on the tour was given 4 free 4oz growlers. I highly recommend doing this tour! Aside from the tour, I love the venue as well!

It's Time To....

2011-12-31T09:37:00.000-08:00

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It's no secret, I LOVE champagne. It always brings me back to my days of Italy, running around with my Firenze loves- the infamous Beast of the East and my sister Lindsey.

Tonight I plan to of course toast the New Year with my glass of this fabulous beverage in hand (and who knows maybe I'll get a lil wild and dance on a table- TOTALLY joking... but might actually happen people). I wish you all a safe night spending it with the ones you love most.

This quote from Madame Lilly Bollinger pretty much sums up my feelings for this bubbly beverage:

"I drink champagne when I'm happy and when I'm sad. Sometimes I drink it when I'm alone. when I have company I consider it obligatory. I trifle with it if I'm not hungry and I drink it when I am. Otherwise I never touch it- unless I'm thirsty."

Goal #34: Watch the Sunrise (1/5)

2011-12-31T09:22:00.000-08:00

It's about time I got this goal up here! Back over the summer my family visited Rankin Ranch, where on the last day of our stay, I took the morning ride.

Morning, as in before 5am get on a horse and ride up a mountain, without coffee, without any light, and when it is very cold outside. All this was done so we could beat the sunrise.

It was well worth getting up 5am. It was a beautiful thing seeing the sun rise up from below the mountains, slowly showing itself by lining the tips of the mountain with it's golden touch. Once it peeked it's head out, there was no stopping it! It took us about 40 minutes to get to the top of the hills and point our horses in the right direction, but that sunrise waits for no one. It was up showing it's bright sunny self in a matter of minutes.

Once it was up, we headed back down the mountain. It was a beautiful ride back, and the sun now give me some fun shadows to photograph! By the time we got back the kitchen wasn't even open- but luckily one of the wranglers let us sneak in back to get a hot cup of joe... actually several cups of joe so I could warm up!

North and Hudson: Custom Earmuffs

2011-12-15T11:10:00.000-08:00

Lucky for me it's getting chilly out in SoCal! With the temperature dropping down to the low 50's and 40's at night- a girl needs something to keep her ears warm!

With that being said, it's perfect weather to adorn these cute, fashionable custom earmuffs from NorthandHudson Etsy Shop.

I simply adore the bow! You can even buy additional bows and flowers, so you can switch them out to match any outfit!

Just imagine- Blonde curly hair with these fabulous earmuffs keep my ears warm.

Function and fashion!

As a Graphic Designer...

2011-12-13T13:46:00.000-08:00

... I feel compeled to design any card I send out (for the most part). Whether it be change of address cards, greeting cards, or as we approach the holidays, Christmas/New Years cards.

Of course no craft is complete without some glitter! These two cards have given me some inspiration.

{via}

I do believe it's time to bring out the glitter! Now to decide on the wording... of course Fabulous and Sparkly will make it into the greeting without a doubt. Oh, the fun I will have this week! Stay tuned to see how they turn out!

Adventures in the Kitchen: Soft Brown Sugar Cookies

2011-12-12T12:45:00.000-08:00

As mentioned in an earlier post, I attended Miss Erin DeHart of The Lime & The Coconut's 2nd annual cookie exchange party this weekend. Last year I brought one of my favorite cookies, Ocean Spray's Oatmeal Cranberry White Chocolate Chunk Cookies, but decided it was time to try some new recipes for this years party.

Soft Brown Sugar Cookies

Recipe Courtesy of Scrapes of Life (found using Pinterest)
Yields: 2 dozen (I ended up with almost 3 dozen)

Ingredients- Cookies

2/3 c. butter, softened
1-1/2 c. brown sugar, packed
2 eggs
1 t. vanilla extract
2-1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 t. baking powder
1 t. baking soda
1/2 t. salt
1 c. sour cream (substituted light sour cream)

Preparation
Blend together butter and brown sugar. Add eggs, one at a time; blend well. Add vanilla; beat until light. In a separate bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add flour mixture to butter mixture alternately with sour cream; mix well. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls (I used a cookie scoop or melon ball scoop) onto non-stick or lightly greased baking sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 minutes (sometimes these called for an extra minute, no longer). Remove to a wire rack; cool. Frost with Browned Butter Frosting.

Ingredients- Browned Butter Frosting
1/4 c. butter
1-1/2 c. powdered sugar
2 T. Milk

Preparation
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden. Watch carefully as this will happen quickly. Remove from heat. Stir in powdered sugar and enough milk to make a spreading consistency (I used a whisk to keep it from being too grainy).

Stay tuned to see what other yummy treat I baked up!

Weekend Recap

2011-12-12T11:56:00.000-08:00

all you can eat sushi

Chick Flick

baking up a storm

home made salsa fresca

cookie exchange party

catching up with old friends

Romantic Canyon Drives

Bright Sky

Driving through canopies of Trees

10am spa dates with Irish Coffee

Christmas Shopping

Hair Appointment

Blonde Bombshell

Successful weekend!

** I should note this was before my hair was done in this photo.

Tis the Season...

2011-12-12T11:49:00.000-08:00

.. for Holiday Boat Parades in the Harbor...

Definitely getting a group together to enjoy this festivity!

I see thermoses of Irish Coffee or maybe even a Girl Scout in my future!

Don't Forget!

2011-12-06T11:02:00.001-08:00

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Today is the feast day of St. Nicholas!
So don't forget to leave your shoes out!

My family celebrates this every year. St Nicholas always arrived right before bedtime. Filling our shoes with sweet treats and leaving us a new pair of pajamas to sport on Christmas morning and a book to read throughout the holidays.

He even made the treck to my apartment last year to leave me my lil surprise. It's nice to know that at the age of 25 St. Nicholas still doesn't forget about you.

And apparently likes to break and enter.

Does your family have any St. Nicholas day traditions?

Lusting After: Kate Spade

2011-12-06T09:30:00.001-08:00

Ever since I picked up my Kate Spade WELLESLEY SMALL MAEDA purse and wallet, I have to say I'm a huge fan of Kate Spade. It never fails, I can always find an amazing purse or accessory on the site- not to mention there Home section, I'm in love. I will have Kate Spade china, no doubt. I could do some serious damage on my credit card shopping online here.

They have two new arrivals that I just fell in love with as soon as I saw them.

The Dizon Place Blaine Bag. It's big. It's classic. It's fabulous! Demin with gold hardware.

Stripped Bow Jacket. I'm in love with nautical themed attire this season. Bonus: Bow detail on back.

Oh, and look at that... The jacket and bag would look so lovely together! I definite lusting after this ensemble!

Whinding Down

2011-12-05T20:44:00.001-08:00

Zen green tea

Snuggly puppy

New read!

Happy Monday!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Gift Giving: for the Mr.

2011-12-05T15:34:00.001-08:00

1. DIESEL® Time Zone Oversized Bracelet Watch from Nordstrom 2. Converse Shoes, Skid Grip Slip Ons in Charcoal from Macy's 3. Mustache Flask on Vibrant Plaid from WimsyandInk Etsy Shop

4. Subscription to Beer of the Month Club 5. Bacon Periodic Table Element Cotton Pillow from YellowBugBoutique Etsy Shop

Weekend Recap

2011-12-05T11:08:00.001-08:00

Grown-up date night

After dinner drinks

Sleeping in

Breakfast burritos

Crosswords

Book finishing

Entourage Marathon

Family time

Baking

Checkers

Holiday tree decorating

Such a fantastic weekend filled with lots of family and boyfriend time!

Tis the Season....

2011-12-05T10:30:00.001-08:00

The parents house was full this weekend! All of my sisters were home from college, and therefore it was tree decorating time! The boyfriends even came over to enjoy some of the Holiday fun! (more like make fun of our cheesy Kindergarten ornaments- you know the one I'm talking about- pasta noodles and the embarrassing picture in your school uniform).

The sound of Michael Buble Christmas filled the house along with the smell of sweet hot cocoa. Poor lil sis (pictured top right hand corner) passed out before she could even place one on the tree. Don't worry though, we nicely placed her ornaments aside so she could do it once she woke up. The boyfriends (top left) helped unwrap the ornaments and handed them off to us girlies. TK of course was the DJ, picking some not so classical Christmas songs to soundtrack the evening. Even Lulu Belle showed her festive side and adorned her "Ho Ho Ho" Santa hat.

Let's just say that it's slowly starting to feeling alot like Christmas, not having 80 degree weather over the weekend helped tremendously.

Gift Giving: for the Baker Bee

2011-12-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

1. Silver Pedestal Cake Stands from Z Gallerie 2. Polka Dot CupCake Liners from CupcakeSocial on Etsy

3. Cup Adorning Cookie Cutters from Velvet Brown 4. Retro Pink Apron from LoverDoverClothing's Etsy Shop 4.Kitchen Magic Wisk from Anthropologie

Gift Giving: for Your's Truly, Madalyn Marie

2011-12-02T14:20:00.001-08:00

Happy Friday Lovelies!

In place of my All About Me feature, I'm sharing what I'm Lusting After this Christmas!

1. Steve Madden Wiicked in Black Suede

(Can't wait to pair these with some skinny jeans or even a skirt!)

2. White iPad 2 from Apple (for the blogger on the go!)

3. Tazo® Matcha Green Tea Latte Concentrate from Starbucks

(haven't you hear this is my fav morning drink- with soy milk of course!)

4. Juicy Couture 'Ed to the Stars' iPad Case from Nordstrom (practical)

Jimmy Choo Tyler glitter-finished leather iPad sleeve (in my dreams)

(to keep my iPad stylish and of course glamourous! If only the Jimmy Choo version wasn't the same price as an iPad .:tear:.)

5. Traffic Stopper Copper Top Coat, Only Gold For Me Top Coat
and Spark-tacular! Top Coat
from Sephora by OPI

(this will look fabulous over my winter white color, Essie Marshmallow)

Gift Guide: for the Shoe Obsessed

2011-12-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

1. Luichiny Angel Lina Cobalt Blue Peep Toe Super Wedges from Lulus.com 2. Rhinestone Beaded Bow Shoe Clips from FinkShop on Etsy 3. Pretty Polly 'Sparkly' Tights from Nordstrom 4. Polka Dot Sheet Tights from Express 5. Pammy Suede Platform Wedge from Steve Madden

Gift Guide: for the Glitzy Girl

2011-11-30T08:30:00.000-08:00

1. Button and Bow Gloves from Betsey Johnson 2. All Wrapped Up Bow Ring from Kate Spade

3. Dome Stud Earrings from Nordstrom 4. Large Bow Hair Clip from Cosetta's Etsy Shop

5. Glint Sequin "Skinny" Scarf from Nordstrom

Gift Guide: for the Graphic Designer

2011-11-29T14:47:00.001-08:00

1. Give a lil inspiration with the book Thinking with Type by Ellen Lupton 2. Help them decorate their tree with a Pantone Ornament from Seletti 3. No party is complete without the Typeface Memory Game from BIS Publishers 4. Need extra seating? Add some more seats with Pantone Folding Chair from A+R Store 5. Make sure they back up their work with a portable hard drive from Western Digital*.

*I happen to work for Western Digital as well.

Gift Givers Guides

2011-11-29T14:31:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of the season, my feature posts this week will gift giving guides!
Stay posted to see what fun finds I share!

xoxo

Tis The Season For...

2011-11-28T14:36:00.000-08:00

That's right, today is the beginning of my Code Pink Boot Camp.
From now until Christmas I will be attending this 3 days a week! For 4 weeks!
WISH ME LUCK! It's time to get this body in shape and start the new year off right!

It's a Pantone Christmas!

2011-11-22T09:00:00.001-08:00

If you're as big of a design geek as me, you probably let out a GASP! when you saw this.

More proof that it's a Pantone world! Don't mind me while I decorate my Christmas tree with Pantone Ornaments, will drinking coffee out of my Pantone Mug, and eating Pantone Chip Cookies. This is a sight I would really like to create. And as for my Pantone ornament color of choice- well I would like to take one of each, but if I really had to narrow it down, it would have to be Pantone 15-5519 and Pantone 18-2120. No surprise people, teal and pink are my go to colors.

Tis the Season for...

2011-11-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

November shut down! I almost feel like I'm in school again, I get a whole week off! Normally my work shuts down only twice a year around Christmas & New Years and the 4th of July, but due to some outstanding circumstances, we are closing down the week of Thanksgiving.

That means:

morning runs.

mid-day yoga sesh.

shopping.

sleeping in.

lunch dates.

walks.

baking.

organizing.

cleaning.

reading.

crafting.

trashy mid-day TV shows.

Lulu love.

Looking forward to being lazy, yet productive and spending some much needed mommy puppy time with my stinky Lulu Belle. I will also finally be able to make it to early morning and mid day yoga classes!

What's On Repeat: Stereo Hearts

2011-11-18T14:00:00.001-08:00

Haven't had one of these posts in awhile! It's about time I shared some of the music I've been loving lately.

Stereo Hearts by Gym Class Heros ft. Adam Levine

My heart's a stereo

It beats for your, so listen close

Hear my thoughts in every note

Make me your radio

Turn me up when you feel low

This melody was meant for you

Just sing along to my stereo

Tom's Adds a POP of Color

2011-11-17T12:51:00.001-08:00

I love my Toms. Once you initially stretch them out they are probably of the most comfortable pairs of closed toe shoes you could own. I say closed toed because I'm a Cali girl, and Cali girls wear sandals 12 months out of the year (that's year long for you math wizards :P). And to prove how big of a Cali girl I'm, this bright blondie wore sandals to Chadron, Nebraska in 30 degree weather. Trust me, that sandal factor was not the only reason we stuck out like sore thumbs in a town of less than 3,000 people.

Anyways, back to Toms. Owning two pairs myself- Classic Grey and Oh So Sparkly Pink (these are not in fact the actual names), I was happy to see this fun POP of color on their new styles.

Pink Pop Herringbone Women's Classics

Teal Pop Herringbone Women's Classics

Yellow Pop Herringbone Women's Classics

Love the herringbone pattern, now if only they would come out with a Chevron pattern I'd probably go snatch up all three colors. In a change of events, I'm actually leaning towards the Yellow Pop. Strange I know, I'm a pink and teal girl all day long. Maybe I have a fever....

Some Words to Live By...

2011-11-17T12:03:00.000-08:00

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Spread Holiday Cheer! Starbucks Holiday Drinks are BOGO!

2011-11-17T09:49:00.001-08:00

Today through Sunday you can enjoy a holiday Starbucks beverage for free when you buy one of equal or lesser value. So grab a friend, or grab two for yourself and treat yourself to a warm cup of holiday cheer! With 4 days to enjoy this deal, you could taste all three of their holiday drinks- Peppermint Mocha, Gingerbread Latte, or Caramel Bruleee Latte. Yum! My go to holiday drink? Peppermint Mocha, but I think I might branch out and try the Caramel Brulee Latte. Is it 2pm yet?

It's a perfect winter white! Essie Marshmallow

2011-11-16T13:34:00.001-08:00

I've never been one for white nail polish, but I'm loving Essie Marshmallow. Cute name huh! After recently getting a pedicure with this color, I had to put it on my fingers too! Goes perfect with glitter! :)

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Patchwork Winter 2011

2011-11-09T11:42:00.000-08:00

This last weekend was the Indie arts and crafts festival, Patchwork in Long Beach! I'm a huge fan of this event, as are a lot of my lady friends!(check out those cuties to my left and right) It's a great time shopping for handmade goodies, discovering new Etsy shops, and just all around enjoying a great Sunday with amazing people.

Of course, purchases were made! My favorite purchase came from Sweet Perversion!

Her booth had us laughing out loud with all her amazingly hilarious cards and totes. I simply could not leave without purchasing this amazing tote!

Crafty-ass bitch.

Describes me to a T! Damn skippy!

The cards were hilarious too! Here are just a few of my favorites!

Funny Pregnant Greeting Card

Funny Jesus Greeting Card

Stay tuned to find out what other Etsy shops I've discovered and loving! Stay crafty! :P

To Do List Overload

2011-11-03T13:18:00.000-07:00

~~I'm the queen of lists.~~

Scratch that.

Queen of notebooks.

Notebooks of lists, notes, logs.

Chadron, NE Notes.

Movers. Auctioneers. Bills. Bills. and Bills.

Holiday Bazaar Notes.

To Buy. To Make. To Do.

Madalyn Marie's Notes

Mail this.

Fax that.

Return this.

Organize that.

Bake this.

Head exploding now.

Latest Reads

2011-11-03T11:50:00.000-07:00

I suppose this reading bug thing isn't going to pass anytime soon, and may just very well be here to stay. So, for the first time.... EVER.... I have books lined up to read. That's right. I have a list of books I WANT to read. Very strange for me, but I'm really loving it. Here are my two current reads:

Recently Read

If you haven't notice, I really enjoy Sophie Kinsella books. So after reading most of the Shopaholic series (3 out of 6), I've moved on to some of her stand alone novels. The Undomestic Goddess is about a high powered city lawyer, who after making a mistake that might end her career, finds herself in the country as a housekeeper.

This book was super enjoyable, and I have to say it was probably my fastest read. Funny as always, and of course with a little bit of a love story thrown in there as well. After reading this book, this undomestic goddess might have pick up a few things.

Out for her four stand alone novels, I've finished two! The other stand alone book was Can You Keep a Secret?

Currently Reading

So, something interesting I just discovered- Sophie Kinsella is Madeleine Wickham. Sophie Kinsella is her pen name.

When my friend suggested this book, Cocktails for Three, how could I say no? The cover itself was screaming my name!
(Hello Champagne!)

I'm almost done reading it, but man does it have it all! Scandals... secrets... and cocktails! And boy do I love my chisme! This book takes place in NY, where three successful business women meet for cocktails once a month, except this time there is a chance entourer with some from the past.

Can't wait to find out how it ends!

Other Sophie Kinsella books I'm looking forward to reading:
Shopaholic and Sister
Shopaholic and Baby
Mini Shopaholic

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T10:51:00.000-07:00

Hope you all have a spook-tacular day!

Stagecoach 2012 Lineup is Announced!

2011-10-20T09:39:00.000-07:00

Oh isn't it fabulous! The 2012 Stagecoach Lineup is announced! And look who is headlining...

BRAD PAISLEY

I will never forget the first time I saw him in concert- he was the most amazing, sexiest thing I have ever seen on stage. His silhouette magnified against the backdrop, the bright lights shined behind him while he played his guitar on stage.

YUM.

All the more reason that I WILL NOT, CAN NOT, MISS THIS YEARS SHOW!

Time for this girl to get her country swag on.

Yeeehaww!

Did I mention it's also a DZP goal?

Happy Hump Day!

2011-10-19T15:16:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it's Wednesday already?!

Sharing with you my lunch time purchase- Hello Kitty Glitter Gel Pens! $1 at Target!

and my clever Shit. post-it-notes

Goal# #33: Do 12 5k's in a year (12/12), COMPLETED!

2011-10-18T11:27:00.000-07:00

After almost completing this goal last year only to fall short and then revising it after my ankle injury this year, this goal is FINALLY COMPLETED! I'm beyond words excited! I figured I was being very ambitious when I created it, but after almost 24 months of doing 5k's around Orange County and LA- I've done it! Now, by no means am I done doing 5k's forever- I honestly think I'm going to one up myself and attempt to train for a half marathon!

My 12th and final 5k for this goal was the Chapman University 5k. This was my 3rd year in a row completing it and it was just as amazing as ever! In previous years I was joined by my father, sisters and aunts, but for this year's race it was just me- solo.

Do you know how hard it is to get yourself up at 6am on a Saturday!? Being the only one doing this race I could have easily slept in, but I managed to push myself up outta bed (some lil yorkie I know was not too thrilled with me).

Of course once I got to the race, I was extremely pleased with myself to have made it up to Orange- it wasn't until I got there that I realized I had actually fooled myself into getting there early (I thought start time was 7am, but it really was 7:30am- woopsies!). Before I knew it, it was go time! I ambitiously started the race with a fast pace jog. Across the start line I went and that's when I happened to bumped into one of my friends- Jim. We ended up jogging and walking the whole race- and finished in under an hour!! (I believe it was about 45min). Not bad time at all, especially with walking!

Not only do I love this race because of the college's beautiful campus and surrounding neighborhood (gotta support my sisters school!)- but also because of the amazing event staff. Their social media team has been rooting me on since I participated in the race last year- and even remembered about my DZP goal! It only seemed appropriate to finish this goal at this race.

THANK YOU CHAPMAN EVENTS TEAM FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Adventures In The Kitchen: Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas!

2011-10-17T14:48:00.000-07:00

If you can't tell we love our mexican food! We had a full house the other night with all 5 of us, so with it being our turn to cook, I pulled out this recipe I recently found on Pinterest, originally from Food.com. I think in another life our good friend Nickie was a food critic, he is one tough dude to please- he enjoys constructive criticism. Needless to say, chewing, nodding of the head, eyes closed and "MmMming" are all good signs. So this recipe is Nickie Poo approved!

Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas
Recipe Courtesy of Food.com
Yields: 8 servings (I only got about 6 servings out of this)

Ingredients:
1 lb chicken breast, diced (I would shred instead of dice, and up it to at least 1.5 lbs)
1 medium onion, chopped
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
8 8-inch flour tortillas, softened
1 1/2 cups grated monterey jack cheese or 1 1/2 cups Mexican blend cheese, divided
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup flour
1 (15 ounce) can chicken broth
1 cup sour cream
1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies

Preparation

In frypan, cook chicken and onion together in oil over medium-high heat until chicken is just done.
Divide cooked chicken evenly between 8 tortillas; add 1 1/2 tablespoons cheese to each tortilla.
Roll enchiladas and place seam-side down in 9x13" baking dish that has been lightly sprayed with no-stick cooking spray.
Melt butter in a medium saucepan; stir in flour to make a roux; stir and cook until bubbly; gradually whisk in chicken broth then bring to boiling, stirring frequently.
Remove from heat; stir in sour cream and green chiles; pour sauce evenly over enchiladas.
Top with remaining 3/4 cup cheese (baking dish may be double-wrapped and frozen at this point) and bake at 400° for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and sauce near edges of baking dish is bubbly.
Enjoy!

It's time for...

2011-10-06T10:35:00.000-07:00

...Grey's Anatomy!

I really do love this show, even though last season I was a tad disappointed in the whole musical episode. But now I'm all caught up and ready to see what Season 8 has in store! This is one of the view shows I have watched from the very beginning- not one episode missed!

It's on Thursday's at 9pm on ABC.
So you know where I will be tonight!

You Make Me....

2011-10-06T10:04:00.000-07:00

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It's no secret, you make this girl hahahahahappy!

Let's Do This!

2011-10-03T09:27:00.000-07:00

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Here's to another week, let's make it a good one!

101 Good Reads

2011-09-30T10:13:00.000-07:00

Daily Candy has released a list of 101 Books We Can't Live Without. Having caught the reading bug lately, I'm always ready to find my next good read and this list will certainly help!

I was surprised to find out that alot of the books they list were ones I read (or was supposed to read) in High School. Not counting those, which I mostly read through Cliff Notes (don't worry I'm kicking myself now), here is a list of the ones I have read:

Love in the Time of Cholera
The Help
The Kite Runner

And I suppose that's it.. 3 out of 101...that's pretty pathetic. I will definitely need to work on that. There is hope though! Because the next series on my list to read is The Millennium Trilogy.

Have you read any of these? Which ones would you recommend?

Dear Green Tea...

2011-09-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

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Have you ever tried to make the switch from coffee to green tea?

I just did and besides the initial caffeine headaches (due to the fact the caffeine in green tea and the caffeine in coffe is different... who knew!) I got the first couple of days, I can honestly say that I don't miss my normal morning cup of joe.

It doesn't leave me jittery and it has so many amazing health benefits!

Lusting After: Cat Eye Sunglasses

2011-09-29T10:46:00.001-07:00

I've been lusting over these Dolce & Gabbana Cat Eye Sunglasses ever since I tried them on about a month ago. Just goes to show that you should always go with your gut instinct! And mine was to buy them right on the spot! But my more practical side said "no Madalyn, you don't need them. Your other pair of sunglasses is just fine."

Well, about a week later I found a giant scratch on my sunglass! .tear. To say the least I was pretty devastated- I make it a point to put my sunglasses back in their case to avoid this problem entirely. So, that was a fail. But luckily for me I already knew which sunglasses I wanted next, right? WRONG. Sold out everywhere!

Which led me to believe that when I did find them the other day while out that I had to buy them. And I did, without a doubt in my mind. I have to say they are one of the most fabulous purchases I have made lately... and I LOVE them. They are GLAM-TASTIC! Flirty and fabulous and even have cute delicate flowers printed on the inside.

Happy 800th Post!

2011-09-29T10:46:00.000-07:00

Yep that's right... finally made it to 800 posts! Yeay!
Like my glitter letters? Learn how to make them here on Pugly Pixles blog!

Adventures in the Kitchen: Quick Pastitsio

2011-09-28T12:31:00.000-07:00

With the piles and piles of recipes I have stacked up it's about time I put on my apron and started seeing which ones were worth adding to the cook book and which ones were not worth attempting again (don't worry I wont share the bad ones with you!)

Last week I decided to try this new Quick Pastitsio recipe I got out of my October Issue of Cooking Light. The boy eats pasta for dinner almost every night (if he has it his way) with pasta left overs for lunch. Talk about carb over load for me.

This recipe was quick and easy, only calling for about a dozen or so simple ingredients, most of which I had. Check out my modifications below.

Quick Pastitsio

Recipe courtesy of Cooking Light
Yields: 6 servings (I would say more like 8)

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked penne (tube-shaped pasta)
Cooking spray
1 pound ground sirloin (I choose to use lean ground turkey, ground spicy turkey sausage would work too to add some kick to this dish)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 1/2 cups chopped onion
5 garlic cloves, minced
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
2 cups fat-free milk
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup (4 ounces) 1/3-less-fat cream cheese
1 (3-ounce) package fat-free cream cheese
3/4 cup (3 ounces) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Preparation

Preheat broiler.
Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add beef to pan; sauté 5 minutes or until browned, stirring to crumble. Remove beef from pan; drain. Wipe pan clean with paper towels. Add oil to pan; swirl to coat. Add onion; sauté 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic; sauté 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add beef; sprinkle with salt. Add flour; cook 1 minute, stirring frequently. Stir in milk, tomatoes, and cream cheeses, stirring until smooth; bring to a simmer. Cook 2 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Stir in pasta.
Spoon pasta mixture into a 13 x 9-inch broiler-safe baking dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over top. Broil 4 minutes or until golden. Sprinkle with parsley.
Dish up and enjoy!

This is definitely a delicious and fast dish. It was creamy and rich, but not to rich. Perfect for a fall evening. I made this dish for 4 adults and after grub time about half the pan was still left over- meaning it could probably serve were more then 6) If you want to add an added kick to this dish (wasn't spicy enough for my boy's liking) try substituting the ground sirloin for spicy ground sausage and even adding in a dash or two of habinaro sauce in step 3 when stirring in the milk. Another suggestion for this dish is to also add in sauteed red peppers for some extra flavor. Happy cooking!

Goal# #33: Do 12 5k's in a year (11/12)

2011-09-28T11:53:00.000-07:00

It's that time of the year again to support Susan G. Komen for the Cure! I have to say this is my favorite 5k's to participate in not just because it's pink galore, but simple because it has to be one of the most amazing experiences to see so many people come together to fight for one cause. More than 30,000 participants this year! Woot Woot!

This year was my 4th year in a row participating and the friends and I even created our own team called Treasure Chests. This was also my first year meeting and exceeding my donation goal thanks to the support of my Mom and my Godmother who generously donated in my name for the cause. Fundraising is still going on through October 31st, so if you are interested be sure to visit my donation page!

The team and I walked the entire thing in about an hour, which isn't too bad considering the amount of people you are surrounded by. This is my 11th 5k for my DZP goal, so only 1 more to go until I've completed goal #33! Let's do this!

Goal #95: Buy an Angel's baseball jersey

2011-09-09T11:59:00.000-07:00

Woot Woot! It's about time I got an Angel's jersey to support my boys! While the "beasts from the east" were out last week we went out to Angel's Stadium to catch a game- and help Miss T$ in her bucket list goal of visiting every MLB stadium! (awesome goal by the way!)

Although I've had my eye's on getting a jersey for some time, I guess I had psyched myself out with how expensive one was going to be because once I saw the price tag I thought to myself "this is way cheaper then I was expecting!" And so of course I bought it! :) And don't worry, I already have plans to bedazzle the letters on this baby... why do I LOVE glitter so much!

Goal #41: Host a party (something sophisticated)

2011-09-09T10:41:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy to complete this goal, especially because it was for my Mom's 50th Surprise Party! Everything turned out great (minus some momentary panic because it was raining the morning of the party but it thankfully cleared up by the time guests started arriving). And for pulling off the surprise part of this party- well the LAW sniffed out our "sneakiness" only an hour before the party, so I have to say we were pretty damn successful.

The party was held at the San Juan Hills Country Club, and I have to say I was very pleased with the set up and how everything turned out. Food was fantastic and there was plenty of room for every to mingle.

I of course had to add in my crafty details- which I have to say, details are everything! (says the perfectionist!) Everything from matching old fashion straws, a stripped table runner (which I stich witched myself!), and of course the labels and ribbons for the candy and dessert table. Here are some shots of the event.

You can thank my mom for giving me her crafty gene, after watching her throw parties for the last 25 years, I guess you can say I picked up her event planning skills. Funny thing is, I totally would not mind doing this for a living!

Guess Whose Coming to Town!!!!

2011-08-31T11:24:00.000-07:00

I know this may not be exciting to the rest of you, but it is down right amazing, want to jump up and down like a lil kid, exciting for me!

The day has finally come with my Firenze loves had made their way of to the West Coast! Miss T$ and KBucks will be bringing gracing Cali with their antics for the next 6 days.

6 AMAZING YOLO FILLED DAYS!

You may ask, "Where did you meet these fun loving ladies?" Well let me tell you...

... 4 years ago my sister Lindsey and I studied abroad in Florence, Italy. These wonderful ladies were in the same program as us... and it was there we all fell in love!

With school, graduation, and work we haven't been able to see each other in 4 years. It wasn't until May this year I made it to NY where I got to see them.

Special shout out to Caitlin who couldn't make it out- we will miss you dearly!!! Wish you could be here to celebrate with us!

So needless to say... there will be some crazy YOLO going on this next week. What is YOLO you ask? You Only Live Once! That's our motto, when in doubt YOLO! So watch out Cali, the four of us will be up and down the coast, from LA to SD living it up!

Yappy Hour!!

2011-08-31T11:06:00.000-07:00

That's right lovelies- it's exactly what it sounds/looks like... happy hour with your dog!

Yappy Hour happens once a month at the Ritz-Carlton in Laguna Niguel, and they only have two left this year! The next one is tomorrow, Sept 1st and the last one is Oct 27th, Halloween themed of course!

It's a great time to hang out with your friends (furry included), enjoy the amazing view, listen to some tunes, and enjoy a drink or two. And don't worry- there are drink specials for your furry friends as well with flavored water. Choices include: bacon,
chicken, cheese, beef or liver.

This event is held to raise money for Pet Project Foundation whose mission is “to enhance the quality of life of all companion animals in a pro-humane manner through compassion, responsibility, education and service.”

Kate Spade Sample Sale!

2011-08-30T09:01:00.000-07:00

I have always been a fan of Kate Spade, with the bright colors and fun patterns! So, when I got the email for their sample sale with 75% off, I could not restrain myself!

Here are my impromptu purchases:

WELLESLEY SMALL MAEDA Purse in Belize

How could I pass up this lovely bag.. in such a fabulous color! I love the smaller front pocket, perfect for stashing things you want to easily locate. Isn't the polka dot lining amazing?!?! So cute!

Originally $395, but on sale for $159!

WELLESLEY NEDA Wallet in Belize

Now this purchase I can honestly say was neccessary. I have been on the market for a new wallet ever since I lost/misplaced mine. And since I wont be buying the Louis one I'm in love with for a while... this one is perfect for right now!

Originally $195, but on sale for $79!

Best part of this random online shopping spree... well at 75% off, my entire purchase, plus tax and $5 shipping was more than $100 less then the purse would originally cost. So in the mind of a shopaholic, I saved a boat load! Yeay! Can't wait to get my purchases!!!

Goal #68: Go to a country concert!!

2011-08-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

That's right, Taylor Swift's Speak Now Concert at the Staples Center last night!! It was probably the best concert I have seen in a long time. She sounds...

AMAZING

A-FREAKING-MAZING

... in concert! Her band is fabulous, her voice is beautiful, and her stage presents it's outta this world. She is totally a girl after my own heart- sparkle and glitter galore! From her dresses, to her guitars and even glitter falling from the ceiling, it was a sparkle-tastic show!

I'm super glad I took my mom up on her offer for the extra ticket (I guess I have my sister to thank for passing on this awesome concert!) I didn't even realize it until we were half way to LA that I would be completing a DZP goal!

Goal #33: Do 12 5k's in a year (10/12)

2011-08-29T09:04:00.000-07:00

This weekend I embarked on my first solo 5k! I have to say, I was quite pleased with how motivated I kept myself with not have someone else to push me to start jogging up again, or make sure I get outta bed in time to make it to the race!

My 10th 5k was the Wet and Wild 5k at Wild Rivers, which I was so excited to participate in mostly because you get to run through the lazy river at the end- how fun is that!

I've realized through the course of this goal, how there are so many great opportunities to run through places that normally you wouldn't be able to get into- for instance: through Angel Stadium for the Angel Stadium Fun Run (hello I got to sit in the dug out and have the stadium dirt on my shoes!), or through the OC Fair ( detour to fun anyone?). Now I can say that I have run through the lazy river! Sweet!

Here I'm... all red faced and sweaty after the 5k! Look I even got a metal! (well everyone did...but still).

After doing this for almost 2 years, I have a list of things that I do during my 5k's, so here they are to share with you:

1. After the first mile, I find someone going relatively the same pace as me, and make it a goal to cross the finish line with or before them.

2. As bad as it sounds, I always find someone that I need to beat to the finish line- usually I have the mentality that the couple pushing the stroller with 2 kids is not allowed to pass me up!

3. Pick out points in the distance to run to and push yourself to not stop running until you reach that sign, curb or person.

4. RUN, never walk through the finish line.

1 spontaneous weekend, 2 DZP goals down!

2011-08-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

Friday, 9:30pm
TK: What do you think about going to Vegas for 18 hours?
MW: Surprisingly, I'm down!

And so our spontaneous weekend trip to Vegas was decided upon! Now, it wasn't 18 hours, more along the lines of 24, but it was spontaneous, and it was for the weekend!

This trip was brought on due to the fact that TK's sister decided last minute to come out to Vegas from Chicago, and so being only 3 hours away, TK wanted to make some time to see her. Such a sweet older brother.

And with that, DZP Goal #62: Take a spontaneous trip somewhere for the weekend, was completed! Yeay! For those of you who know me, I'm a planner, so this whole trip was a lil outta the norm for me- but I do have to say that not having a single plan for our entire trip was quite refreshing!

Since this lil spontaneous weekend getaway included crossing state lines, I had one more goal I could complete! You guessed it, DZP Goal #49: Be in two states at once! And incase it wasn't already a give, the states are California and Nevada. Thank you TK for convincing me the get my ass outta the car and stand by the sign, I almost passed this one up! ( I love how supportive he is off all my goals! Even the silly ones!)

Say what... DZP goal #41 in the works?

2011-08-18T15:23:00.000-07:00

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I know, I'm a dork but it just dawned on me that throwing my mom's 50th birthday party will help me complete my DZP goal #41: Host a party (something sophisticated)!! Yeay! Can't wait to share picts of the event!

Shh.... It's a Surprise!

2011-08-18T15:19:00.000-07:00

Yep the Madre is turning 50! and I've decided to take on the challenge of throwing her a surprise party... I say challenge because she is so inter-twined in everyone's lives, and so freaking stubborn, it will be a miracle if I don't end up having to blind fold her and throw her in the car the day of the event. I already know she will be questioning our choice to have dinner at the venue, so hopefully my outta town guests can help persuade her.

I'm so excited to start on this project- although I'm under a tight time constraint- and planning for out of town guests- so what's new, I'm an over achiever!

I swear the down fall of being a graphic designer is having the need (yes, need) to design everything and create everything yourself. Lord help me when the day comes to start doing wedding stuff- eeks!

I finally finished the invites and mailed them out! I'm loving the look! Check out what they look like!

Colors are black, white and lavender.
I'm totally loving Pinterest too! I have a whole board dedicated for Laurie's Party!!

Now lets pray this surprise will be a success!

Goal #33: Do 12 5k's in a year (9/12)

2011-08-10T09:51:00.000-07:00

I'm back at it! I took a break from 5k's (mostly do to my ankle injury in NY), but I'm finally continuing to doing my 5k's after having to revise this goal. This is my second time doing a 5k a month for a year. Last year I fell out 6 months in, and now this time I fell out due to an injury. So, I have decided to revise it into doing 12 5k races in a year- which I'm very close to completing!

Race #9 was the OC Fair Fun Run 5k that took place this past Sunday. I had never participated in this race, but I would defiantly do it again! The course took you through the OC Fair and the Pacific Amphitheater nearby, and even had 3 detours to fun. These detours included stopping for some carnival games (Dad's and I decided to throw baseballs and break some plates), ride down the large slide, and finally getting to pose for a photo op on the stage with some fun musical props and then heading out back stage.

I have to say, I definitely need to get back into the swing of things! But the good news was, my ankle wasn't bothering me! Yeay!

Next on my list to conquer is the Wet and Wild 5k, and the 2011 Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. Still one 5k race to be decided!

Goal #2: Go Fishing

2011-08-03T11:58:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my family vacation this year to our beloved dude ranch, Rankin Ranch, I was able to go fishing!

It was a long uneventful 2 hours of hanging out down by the pond and I was pretty darn unsuccessful at catching anything but pond muck. Luckily my sister Arielle did catch a fish, but as for the other 6 of us, nothing was biting.

Maybe my next attempt at fishing will be more successful!

Fact #4: I HEART Being a Bookworm!

2011-07-21T11:34:00.000-07:00

That's right, I love reading! If my mother heard this right now her mouth would probably fall open in shock and then ask "what have you done with my daughter?!?"

Simply put, I have never been the reading type- but that was in my younger years when books were picked out by teachers and they were hardly something I wanted to spend my time doing (come on now, there were boys to chase!)

But now I know the value of a good book, have authors that I love reading, and enjoy the time to myself I get when I settle down to read. This timely usually only comes while on vacations, and in the hours before bed (if I'm lucky).

Latest read
Shopaholic Takes Manhattan by Sophie Kinsella. The best thing about this book was my timing reading it! As I was reading it, I too embarked on a try to New York City... which meant I got to see all the places and shops she was talking about. Don't worry, I controlled my shopping way better than she does in the book.

I'm loving this series of books, as well as this author. I had started the series with, Confessions of a Shopaholic back in January.

Currently reading

The Help by Kathryn Sockett. This book was loaned to me by friend and coworker Erin, who read the whole thing while on her vacation in Costa Rica! I took this book with me over my mini vaca and in a day had already read 270 pages! I'm loving the format of the book, with different characters narrating it ever couple of chapters or so. This book is coming out as a movie in August, so I've got some motivation to finish reading it so I can see it in theaters. I always find it interesting to compare the book to the movie, and also see who they pick to play the characters!

Goal #84: Fly a Kite

2011-07-12T14:15:00.000-07:00

I was super amped to get tons of DZP goals done over my lovely 9 days off... and then before I knew it, my stay-cation was over and I had not done a darn thing! But, like most good things in life, this lil activity was unplanned- which made it all the more memorable!

In attempt to tour the Stone Brewery (for completion of DZP goal #14), an impromptu kite flying opportunity presented itself. The brewery tour was full for the day, so we decided to have a beer, relax and in expressing my disappointment in not completing a goal, I ended up rattling off a whole bunch of stuff on my list to my bf's friend- who by chance had a kite in his car!

Taking the opportunity to seize the moment, I found myself with a Cars themed kite running up and down the parking lot aisles and into the empty lot next door. Any on lookers would probably deem me smashed for doing such a silly thing- but the fun part of this whole goal was how spontaneous it was, and how something so simple as kite flying can make just another Sunday into a memorable adventure.

It's Summertime....

2011-06-29T19:23:00.001-07:00

... which means my go to color is Flip Flop Fantasy by China Glaze...

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Stamps of Disapproval

2011-06-21T14:40:00.000-07:00

When it comes to getting approval projects, there are sometimes a few discouraging words along the way. And wouldn't you know it, now there are stamps for your project managers to tell you how they really feel! I found this all too hilarious, although I'm sure if my work got stamped with one of these says it wouldn't be funny any more.

Schooled has a serious of 12 stamps of disapprove, to be used at your bosses or art directors discretion.

Do these sayings sound familiar to anyone? or what are some other sayings that you or your art direct uses?

Fact #3: I have a new TV series I'm addicted too!

2011-06-21T14:20:00.000-07:00

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Thanks to my boyfriends roomies, we are both completely addicted to this new TV series on HBO.
The name of the series pretty much sums it up- Kings, Queens and Knights from the 7 different noble families fight for the throne. This show has it all, gruesome bloody battles, and crazy intense love scenes. Every episode this season has left my boyfriend and I both at the end of our seats (ok the sofa) and we can't wait to see what the next week has in store.
We are watching the season finale tonight, and the second season doesn't start til April. Boo!

Nail Art for the Girl on the Go

2011-06-20T13:56:00.000-07:00

With 24 fun designs and colors to choose from, you really can't go wrong with Sally Hansen's Salon Effects Real Nail Polish Strips. I tested these babies out this weekend, and I gotta say- I love the results! After moving and packing my nails were in dier need of some attention- so over coffee on Sunday I was able to easily apply. With no dry time, I was able to apply and shower and dress without worrying about smudging my nails.

I would definitely recommend this product as something to keep around for an emergency manicure or girl on the go!

I went for the standard pink this time, but there are so many cute patterns to choose from! Have you tried out these nifty nail art strips yet?

Happy Father's Day Daddio!

2011-06-19T09:36:00.000-07:00

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HAPPY FATHER'S DAY.... ...to all the fantastic Dad's out there. I know mine is quite a character, and I love all of this one off sayings.
Sev's words of wisdom as we like to call them. One of his best quotes of all time happened to be said to me after I can home late one weeknight after enjoying dinner and drinks with friends.

"You can't soar with the eagles if you are out hooting with the owls"

Nicely said Dad.

Happy Birthday Smelly Melly!

2011-06-19T09:21:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SMELLY MELLY!

It's hard to believe my lil sister is 19!! Even though her name is Melissa, I'm the only one that gets to call her Mel. And even though she is all grown up, she is still concerned one of the "little girls" since she is still one of the youngest outta us sisters.

You are probably wondering why all my photos of her have her inside interesting objects. Well Miss Melissa is rather petite, or as she calls "fun sized" and she loves sticking herself in interesting places... like apparently a cooler.

Have a fabulous birthday sissy! I hope you enjoy my present :D

Fact #2: I've discovered my interior design style

2011-06-16T12:33:00.000-07:00

With a lil help or inspiration from Apartment Therapy on their post Vanessa Deleon's "Glamilistic" Studio Apartment, I have now discovered what my interior design style is, Glamilistic. Isn't it a fabulous word?! She describes the style as being streamlined minimalism with glamourous details. I love it! It describes how I woud want to decorate a home to a T!

I love simple, clean lines, but love the glitz and glam of the Old Hollywood, or Hollywood Regency style. With that being said, I 've been researching even deeper to try and find exactly what kinda of pieces I'd love to have in my home to add some instant glam!

A tuffed headboard is a must!

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A fabulous overstuffed chair or chaise for lounging...

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Some lucite furniture...

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And sparkly chandelier!

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If you can't tell, I'm totally prepared for the day that I get my house! Like I've always said, all I need is a house- I've got rooms and rooms of decorating ideas! The funnest part of all of this will be hitting up LA to find some amazing pieces!

Oxford Ballet Flats by j.crew

2011-06-16T09:17:00.000-07:00

After walking much of New York recently, I have a new appreciation for flats. Everywhere you look in the city women are walking around in these fabulous flats, and this happend to be one pair that caught my eye. Classy and traditional. If my job required business attire, I would strut into the office sporting this lovelies.

Oxford Ballet Flats
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Do you Pinterest?

2011-06-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine just recently introduced me to Pinterest and to say the least....I'm obsessed!!

For me, it's the perfect way to keep all those cute inspirational interior design decorating photos, cooking ideas, and other photographs organized in one place without having to save them in a folder on your computer. It is basically a virtual pinboard. It allows you to connect online with friends who also have an account, allowing you to share and discover new things!

I've been busy pinning great interior design and furniture for my future home, a girl can dream right? And I will of course be very prepared when it comes time to decorate!

So, what are you waiting for?? Create an account and start pinning!!

Happy Hump Day!

2011-06-15T08:33:00.000-07:00

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... Just incase you need a lil more caffeine then normal on this fine Wednesday...

A Creative Adult is the Child Who Survived

2011-06-14T09:14:00.000-07:00

I'd love to have this framed in my office one day....
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Tis the Season For...

2011-06-13T08:35:00.000-07:00

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..moving boxes, packaging tape, and bubble wrap..
That's right, my 15 months in Laguna Beach are up, and it's time to move onto
bigger and better things- not that I know where that is yet.
Keep your fingers crossed for me that one of these houses we put an offer in on will accept.

Adventures in the Kitchen: Enchilada Casserole!

2011-06-13T08:30:00.000-07:00

Sounds strange I know. And some people are parcial to casserole, but this one is a winner. It is one of my boyfriends top 5 favorite things that I cook and it's a fantastic option for when you need to bring a friend over dinner (I just recently did this when my boyfriend and his roommates moved and were in need of a home cooked meal).

Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Recipe courtesy of Cooking Light
Yields: 4 servings

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, skinned
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided
1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
1/3 cup (3 ounces) 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups chopped onion, divided
6 garlic cloves, minced and divided
1 cup fat-free, lower-sodium chicken broth
2/3 cup salsa verde
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapeño pepper
9 (6-inch) corn tortillas
1/4 cup (1 ounce) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Sour cream (if desired)

Preparation

Preheat oven to 425°.
Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add chicken to pan; sauté 4 minutes on each side. Place skillet in oven; bake at 425° for 10 minutes or until done. Remove chicken from pan; let stand 15 minutes. Shred chicken. Place chicken in a medium bowl. Add 1 1/2 tablespoons cilantro, corn, and next 5 ingredients (through black pepper) to chicken; toss to combine.
Return pan to medium-high heat. Add 1/2 cup onion; sauté 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add 3 garlic cloves; sauté 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Add onion mixture to chicken mixture; stir to combine.
Combine remaining 1 1/2 cups onion, remaining 3 garlic cloves, broth, salsa, 1/4 cup water, and jalapeño in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; let stand 10 minutes. Carefully pour mixture into a blender; add 2 tablespoons cilantro. Process until smooth. (Note: I found that blending this mixture is not necessary, taste is the same and it saves some time)
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tortillas; cook 1 1/2 minutes on each side. Remove tortillas from pan; repeat procedure with remaining tortillas. Cut tortillas into quarters. (Note: I have found that using restaurant style chips works well too, saves on time and actually has a nicer crunch. If you choose to use tortillas, it is necessary to heat them, otherwise they are soggy)
Spread 1/2 cup salsa mixture in the bottom of an 8-inch square glass or ceramic baking dish coated with cooking spray. Arrange 12 tortilla quarters over salsa mixture. Spoon half of chicken mixture over tortillas. Repeat layers, ending with tortillas. Pour remaining salsa mixture over tortillas; sprinkle evenly with cheddar cheese. Bake at 425° for 15 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned. Top with remaining cilantro and sour cream if desired.
Enjoy!

It's time for something bold!

2011-06-10T15:03:00.001-07:00

I love my natural, light pink nail polish, but it's time to mix it up and do something bold!

I guess I'd classify this as seafoam green, but whatever you call it, it sure makes me think of summer! June gloom go away!

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Goal #30: Finally Visit NY

2011-06-10T13:17:00.000-07:00

This was a HUGE goal for me to complete, and if it wasn't for my amazing boyfriend, I'm pretty sure it would have taken at least another year to get to. It's thanks to him for inviting me to his cousin's wedding that I was able to complete this! The big bonus I got outta this trip was being able to see my three Firenze loves! We met exactly 4 years ago on the week I departed for NY, and with life kicking in, none of us had made it to the other coast to visit.

We spent exactly a week on the East Coast, enjoying everything the Big Apple, along with Staten Island and Brooklyn, had to offer! Four amazing action packed days were spent in heart of the city (on 34th and 7th to be exact) and I'm so impressed with everything we got done! I can honestly say we hit every tourist spot you could possibly want to see!

It's impossible to share the 1000 plus pictures (yes we really took that many, and when I say we, I mean the boyfriend.) This seems like the best time as any to say THANK GOD I found someone who is as obsessed with taking photos as I'm. I honestly did not have to touch the camera the entire time, I was the fearless navigator with map and hand, and he was the oh so artistic photographer capturing every shot you could possibly want of the city. Here are just a few of the photos that were taken.. ENJOY!

With tickets in hand, we are on our way to NY!

After checking the luggage, we hit the streets only 1 hr after landing.
First stop: Empire State Building

View from the observatory deck.

Tip for anyone thinking of visiting NY: I would definitely do this first, it helps a lot with
getting your boundaries of the city and the orientation of everything

We spent our first night in NY exploring Time Square! It was quite a thing to see!

Our Stop! Side note: Subway steps are dangerous. On day 2 I busted my ankle pretty badly.
Note the sexy ankle brace in the following photos.
SO.NOT.COOL.

Statue of Liberty! Tip: get to the ferry at 8, not 8:30, not 10 and definately not 11 unless
you want to wait in line for 3 hrs. We found this out the hard way and had to come back the next morning.

Yes I made it the Tiffany's flagship store! SO BIG. SO MANY FLOORS. SO SPARKLY!

The epic reunion!

My Firenze loves!

Some hot couple ready to go to a wedding.
The humidity wasn't quite agreeing with my curls...

Us again. I love this photo. So classy.

That pretty much concludes our trip. I love NY and would LOVE to go again. If the weather wasn't so ... seasonal? I'd move there in a heart beat. Damn snow.

Side note: It's kinda cool that my 30th goal was the 30th one I've completed! SWEET!

Goal #33: Do a 5k a month for a year (8/12)

2011-06-10T12:46:00.000-07:00

This one is all the way back from April! (woopsies )

April's 5k was the Heart of the Vallery 5k in West Covina. Doing this 5k was pretty convenient since I had to be in West Covina anyways to help my Grannie bake Crisoli for Easter. Get some morning jogging in, and then fry up some Italian pastries! Kinda counter productive, but that's how it was.

The great think about this 5k is that it made me realize even more that you can walk or run a 5k anywhere. Even a mall parking lot, like where this one was hosted. 2 laps around and you've got yourself a 5k. Best part: the finish line landed you right into West Covina's weekly Sunday Farmers Market!

Goal #60: Go roller skating/blading

2011-05-26T08:29:00.000-07:00

This goal was completed in 80's style! That's right, it was an 80's roller skating party! The boy and I dressed up in true 80's style- down to the awesome stash- and headed down to the Fountain Valley Skating Center to celebrate a friends birthday.

I'm telling you, the 80's was my era... rocking the pink lips and the stunna shades! The sad party about my outfit is that I owned al of it, except the pink tights and fishnet gloves. The boy was an excellent sport, letting me completely tell him what to wear!

Breakfast at Tiffany's

2011-05-25T10:45:00.000-07:00

Hopefully, this will be me at some point during my NY trip, sipping on a cup of coffee while I check out the window display at Tiffany & Co's Flagship store. Check back next week to see if a purchase was made to add to my jewelry box!

Design is Everything, Everything is Design

2011-05-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

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The poster can be bought on Joshwhiggins Etsy Shop.

The history behind this poster...

Josh Higgins started a project with Doyald Young in November of 2010 that got never finished. It was to be a gift from himself and Doyald to one of their mutual friends. Before the poster was finished, sadly, Doyald passed away. The day after his passing, Josh contacted Jessica Hische and she graciously and beautifully brought the project to life. The poster took a whole new direction from a gift for a friend to a way to raise money for a type scholarship in Doyald’s name.

Goal #31: Take Lulu to the Doggie Beach

2011-05-23T12:30:00.000-07:00

As it turns out, the beaches in Laguna Beach ARE dog friendly, just not between the June 15th and September 10th (fewww we just made it!)!! Just another reason why I love this city.

Sunday we headed out to have a nice relaxing day of brunch at Madison Square Garden (a dog friendly restaurant) and to stroll the streets of Laguna (something I haven't had time for in months).

We ended up at Heisler Park, which has a nice staircase down to the beach, which Lulu could not get to fast enough! She was pulling us down the stairs like the lil crazy pup she is. She enjoyed the stand and water, making sure to sniff the ocean air!

Tis the Season For...

2011-05-23T12:27:00.000-07:00

... a vacation to NEW YORK!
Yes, it has finally come! My much anticipated trip to NY! There are so many thing I want to do and see, and some fabulous girls I'm just dieing to reunite with!

Mobile blogging....

2011-05-20T17:19:00.001-07:00

Testing... Testing.. 1...2...3....

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Location:Bake Pkwy,Lake Forest,United States