Tuesday SXSW Tunes

Don't let me fool you. I did not attend SXSW this year. However, with the beauty of technology, I can pretend. After scouring reviews, watching videos and listening endlessly to various acts from the impressive lineup, I've correlated a list of my potential favorites. Just because I wasn't there, doesn't mean I can't pick a favorite or two. Poser? yes.

Walk the Moon- Anna Sun

It's love. The video made my day.

King Charles- Love Lust
"lust only grows like anger and revenge or beauty comes and goes but love stays until the end."

NewVillager- New Doors

Haunting, good beats, best for late night driving.

The Walkmen- I Lost You

Classic rock...eventually.
Gemini Club- Future Tidings

a dance/techno jam
Meiko- Boys With Girlfriends

I've been listening to Meiko for a while, good for rainy days and cooking adventures.

The Chain Gang of 1974- We at the Disco

A song for your goofy dance, or maybe that's just me.

Calvin Harris- I'm Not Alone

Interesting.

David Donero- South of the South
Amazing Songwriter, sounds similar to Bright Eyes.

Ellie Goulding- The Writer

A song for dreams and sparkels! First heard here.

bangles of inspiration

(via)

 These bracelets just stole my heart. They're like inside out Kate Spade bracelets. "Live your dreams" and "Miracles Happen" would be great daily reminders to wear around my wrist without the permanence of a tattoo.  

I love them and with all of the occasions (graduations, birthdays, weddings) coming up they would make such a special gift.

Twelve Commandments

Say what? There are ten commandments. True story, but this is in reference to The Happiness Project. In the book, she lists a personal twelve commandments by which she directs her life. The idea is interesting, and I think it's important to have little reminders of who you are, who you want to be and who you want to become. I think the personal twelve commandments idea helps harbor this motive. So, without further adieu, my twelve commandments, which are sure to be altered with time.

Enjoy the process.

Gracefully accept change.

Dream big.

Do not dwell in the past, but learn the lessons and move forward.

Stay active, whether through physical or mental exercise, keep moving.

Talk to strangers as I would a friend.

Hold off on complaints and listen.

Wear sunscreen.

Smile through adversity.

Focus on the ones I love or want to love.

Enjoy moments and be thankful for them.

Do good.

health news

I've tried a fair share of green juice/superfoods in my day, but this is by far the best tasting. I mix it with almond milk, add agave and cinnamon, and shake or stir till it's (mostly) dissolved. With low expectations for the chocolate flavor, I thought it tasted like a chocolate milkshake. If you are looking for a nutritious supplement, this is a great option. Not sure if it's giving me more energy, but it does curb my appetite and is very filling (hello, swimsuit season). 

Here's the product description:

One serving gives you the antioxidant equivalent of 7 servings of fruits and vegetables and helps you hit your daily quota. A full spectrum of alkalizing green super foods, antioxidant rich fruits, and support herbs unite with Acai and Maca to provide a powerful dose of whole food nutrition. Complete with pre and probiotics and digestive enzymes to ensure rapid nutrient absorption and healthy digestion. 



In other news, went to bodypump class for the first time a few days ago and was a little disappointed with the results. I wasn't sore. Now call me crazy, but this is a big deal to me because 
a) it means I got a great workout 
b)exercised new muscles and 
c) I don't have to work out the next day.  (rule of thumb)

So, I might go again and add cardio, but after an hour class that's a tall order for my attention span. Or I will just stick to hot yoga, which is love.

Tracy Anderson has videos on youtube that I might start doing in the comfort of my own living room. I did a few of the exercises at work (don't judge me, it was during my lunch break and I was tired of sitting) and was sore the next day. Results. I like that.

Making Monday Beautiful

Beauty Flash Balm

Clarins

This is a miracle worker. I wasn't sure what to expect at first. It sounded like an upcoming disappointment with the advertised claim: "An exceptional beauty booster which immediately eliminates all signs of fatigue: facial features appear rested and smooth." But, fear not, it's truly fantastic. The primer goes on smooth without clogging pores, preps skin flawlessly and lasts well into the night. And after a dull Monday, the mask leaves my skin glowing.

Diorskin Nude Natural Glow Hydrating Makeup
Dior

This is my favorite foundation. It's hydrating, provides full coverage and doesn't feel caked-on. I'm not a foundation everyday type person, so when I wear foundation I want it to cover up all my little freckles and spots. This feels like a tinted moisturizer, but with full-coverage. It leaves a glow and is the closest to an air-brush finish that I've come across.

Complex 15 Therapeutic Moisturizing Face Cream

Now this is fantastic. With spring/summer upon us, and me nursing my first sunburn (thank you six flags), moisturizer is on the brain...face? My skin is not nearly as dry in the summer, and so I'm always searching for a basic, light moisturizer. Complex 15 is perfect for this. It's moisturizing, but goes on light, allowing me to layer on sunscreen or foundation. It easily compares to Dermalogica's Active Moist, but is under $10. Steal. I've only ordered it online, so not sure where else you would purchase it, but at this price it's worth a try.

Why is it hard to write a personal statement?

After a whirlwind weekend, I've come across a revelation. There are a lot of negative moments surrounding my life and I constantly feel them pulling me down. I try to dispel them with positive thoughts or distract myself with reality television (RHOC is on tonight!), but these are obviously not enduring.  What then? For the past two years my life feels like failure after failure. I've applied to a graduate school program and hundreds of jobs in hopes that either option would create more fulfillment in my life, but nothing has worked out just yet. And then, this quote:

 "Research shows that the more elements make up your identity, the less threatening it is when any one element is threatened." - The Happiness Project (Rubin 78)

Elements will be threatened. That's life. But my entire identity for the past 20 years has always been based in school, work or internships. That was a constant. And these elements are threatened. I'm no longer in school, so that's out for now and I'm not happy with my job, which is 70 percent of every weekday. So, no wonder I feel defeated on a daily basis. There's nothing helping my identity along during these challenging times, or encouraging me through each failure. I have wonderful friends, a perfect dog and a beyond understanding boyfriend, but my own identity is lacking. 

All this to say, I need more elements, something to build an identity around, get me through failures as I take chances. My life needs challenge and accomplishment. 

forgot to wear green. not too worried about it.

Today is St. Paddy's Day!
Tomorrow is Friday!
The next day is Six Flags!

Pretty good line-up ahead of me. In recent news, I've decided to try BodyPump classes. Anyone? I'm a little nervous about my survival rate during this hour-long intense exercise, but it will help me with my new goal: a six-pack. Want one. Swimsuit season is scaring me, so here's to hoping this calms the fears a bit.

In other news, merely two months after I died my hair brown, blonde is calling my name. This is sure to only become more pressing as summer approaches. Why do I do this? My indecisiveness is being obnoxious on purpose.

Cloudy Weather Music

Till the World Ends- Britney Spears

Love when Britney gets it right!

I want to dance till the world ends.

The Call- Regina Spektor
Great lyrics, perfect voice.
Mushaboom-  Feist
"Watching the fire as we grow.."

Each Coming Night- Iron and Wine
As close to a grownup lullaby as they come. goodnight.

Don't you Want to Share the Guilt- Kate Nash

The breakdown near the end is rewind-worthy.
Trouble- Coldplay

Perfect Rainy Day/Driving song.

I Know I Know I Know- Tegan and Sara

"This love isn't good unless it's me and you."
Roll Away Your Stone- Mumford And Sons

The whole CD is beautiful: lyrics, music, voice.
Wild World- Cat Stevens

It's a wild world.

Pocketful of Sunshine- Natasha Bedingfield

Easy A nailed my feelings for this song exactly.

And I'm doing this later. Join me.

blogger book club

The Happiness Project. This book is everywhere. 

The concept of creating your own happiness intrigues me and the author flushes out the idea of acting how you want to feel. There is a lot to be said for finding joy in the little things and keeping a negative attitude in check. Anyway, I think the book presents an interesting idea and I will share my thoughts here as I read.

A few of my friends are going to read it with me, and I'd love for anyone else to join the discussion!

Self Portrait

It doesn't interest me if there is one God
Or many gods.
I want to know if you belong -- or feel abandoned;
If you know despair
Or can see it in others.
I want to know
If you are prepared to live in the world
With its harsh need to change you;
If you can look back with firm eyes
Saying "this is where I stand."
I want to know if you know how to melt
Into that fierce heat of living
Falling toward the center of your longing.
I want to know if you are willing
To live day by day
With the consequence of love
And the bitter unwanted passion
Of your sure defeat.
I have been told
In that fierce embrace
Even the gods
Speak of God.
 
~ David Whyte ~

If you risk nothing, then you risk everything. 

-Geena Davis

power of thought

Hoping for wonderful things today. And hoping those thoughts produce positive outcomes. I have many opportunities and it's easy to forget when the daily stresses are weighing at you in every direction. Things always turn out well and the rain always brings a rainbow. 

Cheesy? yes. Lovely at the same time? yes.

never settle for anything less than butterflies

(via)

There are two responses to listening: advice and agreement. That’s my personal diagnosis and I would like to use the disclaimer that I have no idea what I’m talking about. In my personal experience, people will either agree with you or give you advice. There is a time and place for both, but more often I’ve found it’s a matter of personal preference. Listening is one of the most crucial activities in any relationship with friends, family, co-workers, etc. It either opens the door for more discussion or slams it shut. 


A close friend of mine has said that she likes when people just allow her to vent without giving advice. This directly stems (she says) from her parents consistently giving advice every time she approaches them with a problem. 


I am the exact opposite. I want an action plan. I want someone to tell me exactly what to do with specifics on how to remedy my dilemma. This could be a result of my parents hesitating a bit with advice. I’ve always had elaborate plans for everything, down to which order I need to run my errands (ridiculous) and I would imagine there was rarely room for advice. But when things crumble and I fall, I need someone to tell me where the stairs are to get back up. I guess I could just "PLAN BETTER," but let's separate ourselves from #teamsheen for a moment.


One summer when I was in New York for an internship, a fellow intern humored me by listening to some drawn out dilemma. I asked what I should do and the reply was: “You already know what you want to do.” This has stuck with me through every obstacle I’ve faced since. No one knows you more than yourself, and the options have been selectively weighed in your mind. That statement does both, it agrees with advice, and I think that’s the best thing to say.


How do you listen?

sometimes your words just hypnotize me

What day has the best happy hour specials? Tuesday. Welcome Tuesday! Here's a lovely little playlist for the rest of your workday/school-day or the drive home (to freedom). 

Heads Will Roll- Yeah Yeah Yeahs

22- Lily Allen

Laughing With- Regina Spektor

Marchin On- OneRepublic

Ain't No Sunshine- Bill Withers

Such Great Heights- The Postal Service

Don't Panic- Coldplay

Mr. Pitiful- Matt Costa

Ready for the Floor- Lissy Trullie

Colorblind- Counting Crows

Naive- The Kooks

Foundations- Kate Nash

And I was a terrible picture take, as per usual, so here's a little glimpse of the Garden District in New Orleans while we wait for a parade.

product, product, happy tea!

Good Monday to you! Hope you had a fabulous weekend that will get you through the work week. Last week there were no products, but this week there are three! Lucky ducks.

The Good

Volume Spray 25

Kenra

Most fantastic hairspray to ever grace my thin baby hair with its presence. It smells good, gives your hair volume and hold, with the love only a hairspray can give. My indecisive nature often comes into play, and this wonder-can allows for recreation without creating sticky starch hair. Love.

The Bad

Definity Intense Hydrating Cream

Olay

As the temperature dropped, my skin slowly required more and more moisturizer. After reading some rave reviews about this Olay Definity Moisturizer, I picked some up at Ulta with decent expectations. But this was a disappointment from the beginning. The consistency lacks any creamy nature. It is water-like and not at all "intensely hydrating," as it claims. This may be better for the summer, but I was not satisfied, and, after a couple months, there was no change in skin tone.

And then if you're ever having a bad day, because it's a Monday perhaps, drink this:

Woman's Energy

Yogi Tea

Works every time. But make sure honey is added.

It's magic tea: turns that frown upside down.

Weekend Trip to Nawlins

Happy Weekend! 

I'm headed to New Orleans with a group of friends from college! New Orleans is different every time I go and that constant evolution makes for an interesting and enjoyable experience each time. Last year I went with a friend for a relaxing girls' weekend, and it was fabulous.

 Hopefully this trip includes:

a relaxing escape from the real world 

a hurricane or two

laughter with friends

Cafe au lait at Cafe Du Monde

browsing through the French Quarter

Gumbo or Po' Boy

street performers

live jazz

Hot Off the Press, in low viscosity rayon

(viThis morning the Today Show was on in the background as I chose an outfit in which I would attack the day. Then, following a brief update on New Zealand, a story began on the Lilo saga. Apparently she’s going back to jail for stealing a necklace and you’d think the story would end there and preferably on E! News. 

Lohan is either in jail, rehab or the club, not a huge surprise these days. But, for the Today Show, this is a breaking story that deserves our undivided attention. I listened as the report recounted every detail of her outfit, compared the ensemble t to her previous courtroom outfits, and then surveyed her jailhouse possibilities. Why? 

I don’t know and was immediately offended that this was the story that made the air. Out of 7 continents and 192 countries filled with possible stories from the previous day, we are discussing Lilo’s v-neck and pant option for her court appearance, which will likely result in jail.

It’s probably a matter of ratings. The American public wants to watch that, like a train wreck. Maybe it’s because the news is softer, fluffier and everyone is familiar with the main character (albeit tired of her). There’s little, if any, controversy and the opinions are linear. I don’t know, but I think it’s unfortunate.

Obviously I enjoy fluff and subscribe to a fair amount of fashion/celebrity magazines, but in the appropriate format and prefer fluff topics that are not yet exhausted. Grain of salt.

pay it forward

A stranger paid for my coffee this morning. Have you ever had a morning that just set a magical tone for the rest of the day? This was one of those mornings. Every moment aligned into a picture.  I woke up, fully rested before my alarm went off, and left early for work with George, who was all set for a day at Doggie Day Camp.

The employees at PetSmart all greeted George by name and he wagged his little body into the play area. I love him. Ok, no more George tangents.

As I take my exit for work, the split decision is made to pick up a misto and muffin at Starbucks.  Roughly 500 cars were in the drive-thru, but I had my satellite radio readily entertaining me so I joined the masses in line. Then, the most magical thing of all happened. I pull up to the window to pay for my goodies and the driver in front of me had already paid my bill! A stranger had picked up the tab, without even a honk.
“What?” I questioned as the barista explained the good deed once more.

I was stunned and pleasantly surprised by the kindness of a stranger. It’s as if Dallas were trying to prove me wrong, claiming, “See how great we are? You just need to be open to it.”

Then the Barista asked if I wanted to pay for the person behind me, and so I did. Pay it forward was happening in real time, and who knows how long the good deeds went on. I like to think it lasted all morning.

Recipe for a Perfect Night

Yoga on Netflix

+

Glass of Wine

+

Face Mask

(Amazing at home recipe: Mix 1 tbl sugar with 3 tbl honey and apply to face, 10-15 minutes, miracle!)

+ 

Salad (which justifies chocolate chip cookies for dessert)

+ new episode of Glee

=

Perfect, Relaxing Night

Tuesday Tunes, hollaback

~This week is a little more indie. 

Enjoy and if you have an addition, 

I'd love to hear it~

Rolling in the Deep- Adele 

 Beautiful, powerful, I love her.

Time to Pretend- MGMT

Take me back to college, please.

Gimme Shelter- Rolling Stones

Classic Rock always gives the day a little more edge.

E.T.- Katy Perry (feat. Kanye West)

Love this before it's overplayed on the radio.

Your Song- Elton John

Warm and Fuzzy.

We Used to Wait- Arcade Fire

They won a Grammy for a reason, and it's about time.

Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien- Edith Piaf

Pretend you're French and belt it out with no regrets, ehem.

World At Large- Modest Mouse

They are so quirky and great.

I'm in Here- Sia

A bit haunting,but wonderful.

Forget You- Cee Lo Green

Anything that's good enough for Gwyneth is good enough for me. 

(Although the unedited version is a bit more empowering.)

15 step- Radiohead

Refresh your Radiohead love. Namaste

Good Morning, Monday.

I will tell you something about stories. They aren't just entertainment. They are all we have to fight off illness and death. You don't have anything if you don't have stories.
-Leslie Marmon Silko

drink wine day

 Today is...

National Drink Wine Day

My recommendation: 

Cupcake Red Velvet

I sampled it at a wine tasting for Valentine's day, it's delish.

Last night I had the strangest and most vivid dream. The people, conversations and situations were so real that I sat in bed thinking about everything that had just transpired for part of the night. Does it mean something? Dreams are never fully understood, but their mysterious messages always leave me contemplating the possibilities. The decisions are mine and the ideas are mine, but where did that combination come from? Either way, I love the rare occasions when I remember my dreams.

Happy Friday!

oh hey there dream world!

And this is what life is like in my dreams: Strolling the streets of New York City, newspaper in hand, with the perfect dress that both flatters and indulges my inner girly girl.

Reality:

Newspapers (in paper form) continue to dwindle.

Hats look terrible on me.

I live in Dallas and rarely stroll without George dragging me.

But I always find the perfect dress.

inspiration

I am only one,

But still I am one.

I cannot do everything,

But still I can do something;

And because I cannot do everything

I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.

       - Edward Everett Hale

Tuesday Tunes

This week is dragging on a bit. Here's some music to either jump-start your day or keep you going.

Fancy- Drake, T.I. & Swizz Beatz
Because we're fancy. (And I love Drake)
The Show Goes On- Lupe Fiasco
Perfect drive to work/school/errands beat. Just get it done.
Dancing With Myself-Glee Cast
This song puts a smile on my face instantly. Every time.
Revofev- Kid Cudi
"No need to stress."
Dirt off Your Shoulder- Jay-Z
Classic.
Rhiannon- Fleetwood Mac
Will you ever win?
Show Me Love- Robyn
Please take me back to 6th Grade.
Firework- Katy Perry
A song for the Happy Dance.
Silly Love Songs- Glee Cast
Bringing back memories of the Moulin Rouge Soundtrack.
Here Comes the Sun- The Beatles
Because every playlist needs a little Beatles.

product, product, product (valentine's day edition)

Happy Valentine's Day! Hopefully you've found something fabulous for tonight, like manicures and cocktails at the W Hotel or a night in with a special valentine. Jeff and I are cooking some fancy schmancy dinner at home which should be delicious.

Product, Product, Product will be my first weekly installment on this ol' blog and hopefully there will be more to come, organize the madness a bit. So without further ado...

The Good News:

Chanel 

Rogue Coco Lipstick in Rivoli

Simply put, this is a tube of statement.  After realizing no amount of bronzer was going to conceal my paleness without leaving a Jersey Shore impression, I turned to lipstick. The right color dresses up the whole face and this packs a punch.  While the price tag is a bit hefty, it's worth it. While I've always been a lipgloss girl, which is pretty basic and fool-proof, lipstick is a bit more technical. I quickly realized the quality difference in drugstore and department store lip color. This is moisturizing, doesn't smear all over my face and withstands a night on the town.

The Bad News:

Revlon 

Matte Lipstick in Strawberry Suede

As my initial lipstick adventure, this led me astray. Maybe I was too inexperienced for such a bright statement, but it was not user-friendly. The Strawberry Suede is no longer available on the website, and so perhaps the bright coral pink I encountered is being reconfigured. The color is fun, fabulous and girly, but the results were embarrassing. It did last for a good part of the day, but the color was easily transferred to the rest of my face. Many reviews have been written highly recommending this lipstick shade specifically, but I was disappointed.  

sweet valentines

This morning I received this sweet little notice from Kate Spade. The rest of my day has been spent sending each of my favorite people valentines (without hunting down stamps!).

Don't you just love Thursday?

age ain't nothin' but a number

Flipping through a fluff piece on celebrities turning 25 this year, I feel vaguely unaccomplished. In April, I will be 25. That’s hard to type. It seems so old and established. Meghan Fox is turning 25. Meanwhile, I look 12.

And while sometimes I wish there was a little more sophistication to my baby face, there’s more to it than that. There are so many things that I anticipated for 25 when planning out each breath of my life. But, here I am, holding on through a recession that is readily compared to history’s Great Depression. Who would have imagined that?

 Last night, I had dinner with a few dear friends. We are all in similar positions, wanting a more fulfilling career, but subjected to the economy’s harsh realities. We daydreamed about what type of business we would start before our thoughts faded as we slowly rendered the ideas useless. As I drove home, my dismal attitude struck me. This is it. There’s no use constantly shooting down daydreams. Daydreams are important, if only for the dream.

I realized how much there is to be thankful for and how important it is to not get bogged down with life’s obstacles, because that’s all this is: a little obstacle of life. Maybe 25 is that final hurdle, and once I reach it, all of these windows will begin to open up, big bay windows with window seats and bookshelves! There was a fire in the fireplace this morning as I got ready for work. And that was beautiful.

teach me how to snuggie

This past weekend some friends and I participated in a Snuggie Pub Crawl through Uptown Dallas. It was a bit ridiculous. Most people were trying to celebrate Super Bowl weekend, but we had bigger plans. The stares were priceless, but I promise there were a respectable number of us bar hopping snuggie-wearers. And please take note of my blue tie-dye snuggie! Who knew they were so fashionable? (They also have pockets now.)

product, product, product

One of my lifelong obsessions is products. I love them. The beauty aisles call to me. Even when I was younger my mom would have to tear me away from the makeup/skincare/haircare aisles every time she took me grocery shopping.

All this to say, I have acquired an embarrassing amount of personal knowledge when it comes to any type of beauty products. In attempts to justify my purchases and countless hours reading reviews, I will begin showcasing the biggest hits and the most disappointing misses.

Bad News:

Clinique 

Self Sun Face Tinted Lotion

My paleness is leaving me desperate for color, and while I would like to be tan, I would like for it to come without skin cancer. Enter a sunless tanner specifically designed for the face. Clinique maintains a solid reputation for quality. The brand has an extensive skincare line and I've always been completely satisfied with any Clinique foundation. So when shopping for a good, non-orange self-tanner to brighten up my ghost-face, this seemed like an obvious choice. The instant bronzer leaves a fool-proof, even application and the color is natural and glowy. But, the magic ends there. Every time I use this, my face breaks out. Every. time. My skin is not problem-skin, but this definitely irritates something in my pores. Use sparingly. We are in the dead of winter and desperate times call for desperate measures.

 

Good News:

M.D. Forte 

Facial Cleanser II

After over a month of consistent use, my (pale) skin is able to go out in public without foundation. When my dermatologist recommended it to me I was skeptical, mostly because it was available for purchase in his office. However, the results left me pleasantly surprised. The soap- and fragrance-free cleanser is extremely gentle, removes makeup, and, thanks to the glycolic acid, it has evened out my skin tone.

What are your favorite beauty products?

lost

"Adopt the pace of nature: 

her secret is patience."

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Sometimes a conflict erupts and leaves me feeling lost. Lost in what it all means. Lost in where the fight leaves us. We didn't say terrible things, or utter a mention of any permanent consequences, but the feeling is hard to shake. It's a process of patience, and probably maturity, simultaneously. But those moments of patience, where I wait for things to make sense again, are confusing. What does it mean? What is right? Where is my guidebook to life? Then, as I think of what can be done, the answer comes to me. There is nothing I can say/do/think that would be right. It just takes patience. And the patience brings peace, and in the moment a hot bath and Vogue will do the same.




Because when real people fall down in life, they get right back up and keep walking. -Sex and the City

Snowcation 2011

The past two days have brought quite an unexpected interruption to the regular schedule and I have thoroughly enjoyed it. It was nice to wake up early and not have anywhere to be, to relax and let the day happen.  My daily routine has become increasingly mundane, which makes me uncomfortably restless. I always felt this way in college, when I thought that school was keeping me away from the “real world.” Surprise, the real world is rather boring.

But is it my fault for making it boring? So much of life seems to entail patience, which I’ve never been good at. There are little moments that make up a life and each opportunity has the possiblity to breed more opportunity. And maybe it’s about not losing hope in the possibilities, not giving up by accepting the routine. Maybe the search is what keeps life interesting. To keep searching is to keep living. 

"It will normally happen over time. And it's the getting there which has been the most fun. You've got to be patient and enjoy, as I said before, the process of getting there. Because I promise you, it's a lot more fun than being there." -Simon Cowell, on Master Class

My little moments of escape:

Enjoyed migas for breakfast, both mornings.

Drank french press coffee.

Read.

Listened to Enya and Iron and Wine.

Made Ina's Mexican Chicken Soup.

Baked Brownies (without eggs, because they were used in the migas), with chocolate icing.

Watched Master Class on OWN, which I thoroughly recommend.

Worked out.

Wrote a couple articles (worked from home).

Spent both days with my loves, Jeff and George.

he does look like a model

Today, I received an e-mail from George's DayCamp, informing me that a photographer would be taking pictures of the furry campers in a couple weeks. It is $25, but really can you put a price on that face? No.

George is one spoiled dog. When he has an upset tummy I cook him white rice and chicken, if he wants to sit on the couch, I move over, and nearly anything will be cleared off the schedule if a doggie playdate comes up (he's a popular pup).

But, this is new territory. Professional Photos. A one-on-one session with a professional photographer. Initially, I thought it would be comical watching a photographer try to keep George calm and collected, much less in a pose. This is the same dog who jumped on one girl and wrapped his leash around another within 30 seconds during our walk last night.

What do you think? 

Would you invest in professional pics of your pup?

Morning Playlist

Sweet Disposition- The Temper Trap

beautiful song, soft start for the am

Walking Far from Home- Iron & Wine

Brand spanking new album! This is perfect morning music.

Love Language- Hi-Tek, Les Nubians & Talib Kweli

A rare love rap song.

9 A.M. in Dallas- Drake

Could a title be more perfect?

Hot Thing (feat. will.i.am.)- Talib Kweli

A chorus that just says you're a "hot thing" over and over? anthem.

I'm in Love With the City- God Help the Girl

slow and thoughtful.

Dog Days Are Over- Florence + The Machine

running music staple.

GATman and Robbin- 50 Cent & Eminem 

oldie but goodie. obsessed with this song.

Superstar (feat. Matthew Santos)- Lupe Fiasco

Makes me feel like a superstar. really.

Fader- The Temper Trap

Perfect ending.

Morning Motivation

As I sit here eating Chess Pie for breakfast, the thought of working out in the morning crosses my mind yet again. Waking up when my alarm goes off 30 minutes early and ignoring the snooze button is not an easy feat. So, here are some ideas to get the morning workout going until it becomes a habit and I look like Jessica Biel.

Set the Coffee Pot Timer.

There is little that wakes me with the exciting jolt of fresh coffee brewing (extra joy if it's some flavored delight)

Create a Playlist

Music is a fantastic motivator. It brings joy to my life and allows me to zone out to the tune words by someone else. What if I create a playlist the night before and don't allow myself to listen to it until the morning?! Tricky tricky.

Assemble Outfit the Night Before

This is key. My mind is not functioning before several cups of coffee and I can't workout in my pajamas (well, I could, but not without embarrassing myself).

Alright great idea, easy as pie. Speaking of pie...

Do you have any morning workout motivators?

Goodbye dull skin, hello gorgeous!

My god this weather. Cold. Windy. Dark. And now my skin is starting to rebel against this winter forecast with a consistently dry and dull appearance. There is a desperate need for a wake-up call, particularly because my face and I have at least three more months of these fun (read: not fun.) surroundings.

In efforts to transform my boring complexion into a sparkling day-in-the-sun, I came across the following remedies that I will begin immediately.

1. Exfoliate

The most common suggestion is to exfoliate twice a week to get rid of those dead skin cells. done and done.

2. Exercise.

This is suppose to get the blood flowing and help you look and feel radiant. (I would like to argue that Real Housewives of Beverly Hills may have a similar effect.) guilty pleasures. guilty.

3. Drink Water.

This sounds simple enough. And walking to the bathroom a million times a day can be my exercise! Two birds. one stone.

4. Moisturize.

Moisturizing has always been a key component to my skin care regimen, but at least one article suggested continually applying it throughout the day. (Just what I need-something else to add to my purse.)

(a really good moisturizer)

time fleeting

Passing Time

Your skin like dawn

Mine like musk

One paints the beginning 

of a certain end.

To the other, the end of a 

sure beginning.

-Maya Angelou

This poem is better every time you read it.

baby steps

Greatest Accomplishment of 2011 (so far):

A morning workout!

Hopefully this becomes a habit, as that is the plan.

It wasn't an especially strenuous workout, but it was just enough to get the heart rate going and feel a bit better about wearing tights. The benefits of exercising in the morning are numerous, but the main obstacle of overcoming the snooze button continues to haunt my dreams.  Hopefully, the extra time this morning, allowing me to brew some coffee and sip it while getting ready for the day, and a bit longer walk for the pup pup, will motivate me enough to make this a routine.

Also on the agenda:

Read more.

Healthier eating habits.

Best moment: Bachelor watch party with a great friend + wine +snacks+magazines.

mlk day

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” –Strength to Love

“Hatred paralyzes life; love releases it. Hatred confuses life; love harmonizes it. Hatred darkens life; love illuminates it.” –Strength to Love

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” –Letter from Birmingham Jail

“I submit to you that if a man hasn't discovered something he will die for, he isn't fit to live.” 

-Martin Luther King Jr.

Inspiring words from an inspiring life, that tends to put a lot of little trials in perspective. 

happy friday!

Good times ahead this weekend!

girltalk concert

date night

warmer weather

two discs of Mad Men to catch up on

golden globe red carpet

sleeping in

brunch with bottomless mimosas

park time with george

Oh my goodness, I'm so excited about that list.

Hopefully it'll be a smooth transition into Pisces, but I think I'll miss being an Aries (so fierce).

Small dream~

a library, resembling the one above, and as an added bonus, make it my office. small dream.

Quinoa Salad

Quinoa has recently become my magical side dish. It is healthy (gluten-free) and could not be more versatile. My brother, who is as unhealthy as it gets and celebrates when he can order a McRib at McDonalds, enjoyed this ultra-healthy little edible seed, surprising everyone.

1 cup quinoa

2 cups chicken broth

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup olive oil

1 tbl thyme

1 tbl red pepper flakes

1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

5 sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped

kosher salt and pepper

Prepare the quinoa according to package (bring to boil, cover and simmer until water is absorbed) with the chicken broth. 

Transfer to serving bowl and mix with remaining ingredients.

A Winter Wardrobe in a Lunch Break

Today, I went shopping on my lunch break. It makes perfect sense: the crowds are smaller, lines are non-existent and the store is neatly organized for hassle-free browsing. Observing the 1-hour limit, I stopped at the nearest strip center and wandered in Old Navy. 

 Between the mannequin commercials and poor-quality, Old Navy hasn't seen much of me in quite a while. But today was a bit different. 

Wow, I was a little overwhelmed at finding anything, particularly at such great prices.

Basic Cable-Knit V-Neck Sweater, $20. 

Knit Cardigan, similar to this, is available in stores for $19.50. ridiculous. and soft.

Jersey Boat-Neck Dress, $20

I love this dress! It fits well and is a great casual dress to run errands in.

After perusing the website, it's probably better to go in-store. The prices are lower in-store and there seems to be a better selection than on the website. 

Happy Shopping and Stay Warm Friends!

Scarves

 Is there a more perfect winter accessory? 

The winter weather is dreary to say the least and this vibrant Madewell scarf just brightens my day. Pair it casually with jeans and a white blouse or any outfit that needs a little brightening.
 Any suggestions out there?  

You can never have too many scarves!

1/11/11

This date is almost as good as the upcoming 11/11/11...I've been excited about this since 8/8/8, when I caught on to what this new millennium really meant- a fabulous number game.

So, in light of this fabulous little gimmick, here's everything that is coming together to make this day perfect.

• Next day chili! I made this recipe last night, and while the chili was delicious (especially with the cold weather), it's suppose to get better with time. I do love leftovers.
• Hair day! There is little that brings me as much satisfaction as getting my hair did. And, as much fun as blond was, I'm going back to brunette. exhibit Olivia...
• Listening to music all day. (optional dancing)

• Cinnamon Puffins and Peanut Butter-my new favorite (gluten-free!) snack.
• Millionaire Matchmaker Season Finale! Because someone has to watch and see what Patti says.
• And I leave you with a butterfly wall in the latest issue of Lonny!

Well isn't that meaningful...

The million dollar question strikes again. What makes a relationship work? 

"The things that make a marriage last have more to do with communication skills, mental health, social support, stress-those are things that allow it to last or not. But those things don't necessarily make it meaningful or enjoyable or sustaining to the individual," says Arthur Aron, a psychology professor who directs the Interpersonal Relationships Laboratory at the State University of New York at Stony Brook.

First off, there's an Interpersonal Relationships Laboratory?! How do I get there and where can I fill out an application for employment?

There must be both meaning and enjoyment by each individual that is experienced within the relationship for sustainment. A common word of advice is to put the other person before yourself. I can't remember where I first heard the idea, but it was often reiterated that if you love and look out for the other person whole-heartedly, they will do the same for you and then you will always look out for them, and they you. This quickly falls apart. Society is too selfish for this to fully come to fruition. I quickly learned that I must look out for myself, and if I am able to do that then I am both easier to love and more accepting of the love I receive. (I don't desperately need someone to "look out" for me.)

The article, originally published in the New York Times last week, can be found here. It's quick, interesting and I recommend you read it, if you want. Let me know what you think!

sweaters and earrings and coffee

All I want is to wear this cozy sweater with glamorous earrings and sip cappuccino while the winter storm continues. But alas, I'm at work, on the phone with a computer programmer who is trying to teach me how to code. As you can tell, he has my full attention.

moscow mules are delicious

Winter days got you down? Missing that old kick in your step? Well, have I got the drink for you. Last night a friend of mine was in from out of town and we contemplated going to a hip little bar for drinks, but quickly remembered there was a new Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Problem solved, TV night in. 

We walked over to the liquor store, settling on ginger liqueur, but one does not elegantly sip a spicy ginger liqueur, so we turned the bottle around and discovered The Moscow Mule! yum. I highly recommend this for any winter girl's night.

Moscow Mule

1 oz vodka

1 1/4 oz ginger liqueur

splash of lime juice (Rose's)

 Top with club soda and serve over ice

After looking into the cocktail a little more, it is often served in a copper mug. Must locate some copper mugs.

Best moments~Sushi Happy Hour with girlfriends, checking things off my to-do list, rescuing my eyeball from a loose contact, George bouncing around on his walks, Chipotle for lunch, lobster rangoons

Ruby Red Slippers

It's ok, 

...to wear black nail polish with red sparkles, to work.

...to not answer a text/phone call.

...to try gluten-free just because gwyneth did.

...to hate waiting.

...to step away from your desk and daydream out a window.

...to spend way too much time in the grocery store.

...to love your dog more than a significant number of people.

...to have groceries delivered.

...to eat a healthy dinner instead of working out.

...to be excited about RHOBV tonight.

...to wait four weeks to fix your headlight.

...to buy yourself flowers.

...

...to be awesome.

let's fish together

What frustrates me the most about sitting inside an office building all day, is the limitless world out there that I feel I'm missing. It's this fear of missing something that often leaves me restless and anxious. There are so many people I want to meet, places I want to go, and projects I want to accomplish that some days feel like a complete waste, with nothing to show. Look at this beautiful family, fishing together and making the most of very little. There's comfort in appreciation and contentment in togetherness.

These are the days of our lives (thanks NBC). If moments of my life are not appreciated by me, then who's to appreciate them? There's a trick in loving every moment, and maybe I have to become a magician.

Beautiful notes~ Dinner with my best friend, unexpected visits from family, writing something I enjoy, peppermint tea, peanut butter chocolate bar for breakfast, new musical discoveries- alpha rev while writing and fefe dobson while running, health in my friends and family.

dreamer's disease

Don't ever let your dreams get you down. It's about the journey, overcoming the obstacles and creating a story. Your dreams are there to guide, not daunt, and life is to be lived, not watched.

Don't let me down.

Don't let me let you let me down.

2011 is off, and I love it. The biggest goal I have is finding beauty in the little things. This is so important to me, to love each and everyday. The news is constantly negative, that the beauty is all to often lost in the mix.

Beautiful notes~ the possibilities in interviews. unexpected and long phone conversations. cuddles from george. the crisp air. masters class on own (yes, it's awesome). the perfect outfit. lovely comments. 

A Resolution

"Did you ask any great questions today?"

Questions have never been my thing. It always made more sense to listen, take everything in and then ask questions later, usually in the comfort of my own home or in the company of my good friends. This is something I not necessarily regret, but want to begin reversing. Productive confrontation is important, and it is most beneficial if your thoughts are acknowledged before they fade. So, in the new year, I hope to ask more questions and get to the bottom of fleeting thoughts. 

Hello 2011!