Tales from the UC

2012-02-08T22:11:00.003-07:00

2012-02-08T21:25:00.000-07:00

I love this photo.

2012-02-07T22:59:00.003-07:00

Happy Birthday Nadia!!!

A little background information: 
My sweet little Nadia is a very busy girl these days. She fills her time with sewing, designing, crafting, creating or building things. Between that and homework and baking things with her best friend, she rarely has time to watch TV. However, whenever she has any down time she spends it watching The Cake Boss. 

The current information: 
 So when it came time for Nadia to choose how she wanted to celebrate her big TEN, she reaaalllly wanted to check out Carlos Bakery (The Cake Boss) in Hoboken, New Jersey. So did we make it happen?... You bet your Sweet Sicilian Cannoli we did. We invited our dear friends Greta and Wendy to help her celebrate. A smashing time was had by all.

Our first day there, we drove out to the Asharoken/Eatons neck area on Long Island. We stopped for breakfast at The Bagel Boss. (A true Kosher bagel shop) We made friends with Scott, who later brought out birthday cookies for the little girls to eat. You'll just have to take my word for it... They, along with their breakfast potatoes and soy sausages, were divine.

While on Long Island, we let the girls collect seashells on the beach. They loved it.

Huntington County... Forget about it. I could move there and live happily ever after.

Then the beautiful city herself. Of course you know I could live here.

This is Dylan's Candy Bar

Ralph Lauren's beautiful daughter's store. It is candy heaven... Can we talk about the dark chocolate salted caramels? WOW!!!

And saving the best for last...

CAKE BOSS!
While we were in line, we got the entire crowd to sing "Happy Birthday" to Nadia... She was so shy she hid her face. I loved it!

Nadia got her own little mousse cake and I got THEEE best chocolate covered strawberries I have ever tasted.

  
What a wonderful way to celebrate my precious little Nadia. We had a great little birthday celebration! 

2012-02-02T10:34:00.001-07:00

Loving Loving Loving

 Anaranjado

2012-02-02T10:18:00.000-07:00

2012-02-02T08:42:00.001-07:00

Gettin' Cozy while the Cozy's Good

I want to wear this beauty

And snuggle into any of these...

 Mmm. I have to say there is nothing like fine linens. Climbing into a bed with luxurious sheets makes everything troublesome in your life just melt away. 

2012-02-01T21:59:00.003-07:00

2012-01-29T23:42:00.000-07:00

It's Just Comma Sense

I really enjoy puncuation. My favorite puncuation mark is definitely the comma. I am confident I over use it, but I really don't mind. I use it here, I use it there, I use it everywhere. I think I love the comma because when I am talking, I have a tendency to ramble. (Don't act surprised for my benefit.) I speak in run on sentence after run on sentence without taking a valid break. I just insert a comma wherever I take a breath in my thinking, then I continue on as though the breath never took place. I had a teacher once who said you can never use the comma too much, so when in doubt, use it. And use it, I do.

2012-01-29T22:16:00.003-07:00

2012-01-28T21:39:00.000-07:00

Coming To Terms With My Loss

The last time I remember wearing my wedding ring was at dinner with my girlfriends. I had just received a compliment and looked down to agree... It was quite stunning. I wish I had a side profile of this ring. It was truly a work of art! Sadly, It has been about two years now and my husband and I have lost all hope of it showing up. I think it's time I get a replacement (the ring, not the husband). It doesn't have to be like this one, (Although I wouldn't turn it down) Just a band would be beautiful. I am thinking I love gold now. So maybe a big gold pipe cut band.

I do wonder where this ended up. When I first realized it was missing, I would lie in bed at night and imagine its fate...Is it somewhere in a drainpipe? Is it on the finger of a woman who has no idea the value of it or the fact that it is stolen goods? Perhaps a pawn shop and if so, how much did it go for?

I'm thinking I would prefer to know it was in the sewer.

2012-01-28T20:55:00.003-07:00

2012-01-28T20:44:00.003-07:00

Go on... Don't be shy,

(Would you look at that sofa!!!)

tell me you missed me.

Know that I missed you, too.

(Love the gold with the grey)

I pray this post finds you well...

(Oh, that wallpaper!)

And hope you have been having a great 2012 so far.

I have been quite busy as of late.

(Love this chesterfield)

I decided to take on something I've been wanting to do for years.

I figure, now or never...

I am back in school.

Getting the old (new for me) Real Estate License.

Because just like feathered hair,

The market will come back.

I know what you are thinking...

Not to worry, I will do both... Or all of it...

And I will love every minute of it.

(I'll take one of those spaces, please)

So please be patient with me,

(Can we talk about those chairs?)

What with my family, my clients, my job, my lunches,
and now my schooling

You may find me hard to get a hold of.

So I guess nothing has really changed there.

For now, enjoy these beautiful photos

As usual, I don't know where the hell they came from.

2012-01-21T21:33:00.001-07:00

Gluten Free Bread

First attempt

It just wasn't that great. I have realized I can make lots of things gluten free... Bready stuff isn't one of them.

2012-01-21T21:08:00.004-07:00

Barcelona Apartment

wow.

2012-01-21T20:56:00.004-07:00

2012-01-05T21:19:00.000-07:00

My son Garrett had to do an interview with someone that grew up in the nineties. He, out of no other choice, chose me. I think he had fun watching me struggle, as I was anything but aware of my surroundings and the real world as a young girl.

Current events: The Nineties
by Garrett

I ch I chose to interview my mom. She warned me she was more into music and pop culture than the current events of her teen years (not much has changed)... She apologizes in advance. My dad, also being a teen in the nineties was more into current events. He helped me with the questions.

1. In 1992, the Cold War was officiallyover, what were your feelings on that?

"When I was younger, I would have nightmares thatRussians would invade my suburbian neighborhood and come knocking on my doorwanting to steal me away and take me to some kind of torture chamber where Iwould be questioned and later killed. Russia was a very real threat to me, notbecause I really knew anything about the nuclear threat and the Soviet Unionbut more because Hollywood and pop culture in general was known to always useRussia as the great evil and deadly threat. (Which at the time, I guess theywere.) Once the Soviet Union fell, and the Cold war was over, I imagined peacein the world. I was sitting in Spanish watching Chanel One when Gorbachev andBush signed the big treaty. I didn’t really understand what was going on,I just knew the Russians wouldn’t come knocking on my door anymore.  I slept much better." 

2. In 1990, the Hubble space telescope waslaunched, what did you think about that?

"The Hubble space telescope? What’s that?"

3. Did you think President Clinton was agood president? Why or why not?

"I do think President Clinton was a good president. I thought he did a lot of good for our country, I believe he was the one that introduced the "Don't ask, don't tell" policy. He did good things financially and helped the lower class with tax breaks. Correct me if I am wrong, but I think our budget as a country was at its best during his time in office." 

4. What were your feelings on the “dot com”bubble?

"I didn’t even know there was a “dot com”bubble. Through out most of the 90's, I didn’t know what theInternet was. I thought Silicon Valley was a place where a bunch of women withbreast implants lived." 

5. Were you affected by the Columbine killings?How?

"Yes… I think everyone in the United States wasaffected by that terrible day. It was a massacre. Two boys, guns, knives andconfused minds.  I think theykilled twelve students. I was out of school by then, but so terrified for kidsin school. Thinking no one was safe anymore. You are in danger even in school.It was a terrible, terrible, event. So sad and still to this day, I don’t knowif we ever found out why they did it." 

6. Did you know about, and did the Y2K bug affectyou? How?

"I knew of the rumor … I was more interested inseeing what would happen. I worked at a hardware store all through out 1999 andwas there in December when dozens and dozens of customers were buyinggenerators for the big event, confident they would come in handy… Then Iremember lots and lots of generators being returned when nothing happened. I thinkthere were a lot of disappointed people out there. It was almost moreentertaining than it was scary or worrisome for me." 

7. In 1997 scientists create the first clonedanimal, a sheep, how did this affect you?

"It scared me. I thought it may be a dangerousthing to introduce into the world. The beginning of cloning animals, then people. I wondered if it was a moral thing for scientists to practice. I imagined it quite differently though, I pictured people cloning people and trying to perfect the human race... I didn’t understand, at the time, that by learning to clone, there could behuge advancements in medicine."

8. Did the L.A. riots in ‘92 effect you? How?

"I watched a lot of the rioting on the news. Itwas scary to witness such mayhem. I wondered if it would happen in my ownneighborhood. All of the lootingand violence was a shame. I remember praying for families and hoping theywouldn’t be harmed. On a more positive note, one of my favorite songs came from The LA riots.Sublimes “April 26 1992”"

I don't know if you can,
but can you get an owner for Ons,
that's O-N-S,Junior Market,
the address is 1934 East Aneheim,
all the windows are busted out,
and it's like a free-for-all in here
and uh the owner should at least come
down here and see if he can secure his business,
if he wants to...

April 26th, 1992,
there was a riot on the streets,
tell me where were you?
You were sittin' home watchin' your TV,
while I was paticipatin' in some anarchy.

First spot we hit it was my liqour store.
I finally got all that alcohol I can't afford.
With red lights flashin' time to retire,
And then we turned that liquor store into a structure fire.

Next stop we hit it was the music shop,
It only took one brick to make that window drop.
Finally we got our own p.a.
Where do you think I got this guitar that you're hearing today?
Hey!

(call fire, respond mobile station.
alamidos in Anahiem,
its uhh flamin up good.
10-4 Alamidos in Anaheim)

Never doin no time

When we returned to the pad to unload everything,
It dawned on me that I need new home furnishings.
So once again we filled the van until it was full,
since that day my livin' room's been more comfortable.

Cause everybody in the hood has had it up to here,
It's getting harder and harder and harder each and every year.

Some kids went in a store with thier mother,
I saw her when she came out she was gettin some pampers.

They said it was for the black man,
they said it was for the mexican,
and not for the white man.

But if you look at the streets it wasn't about Rodney King,
It's bout this fucked up situation and these fucked up police.
It's about coming up and staying on top
and screamin' 187 on a mother fuckin' cop.
It's not written on the paper it's on the wall.
National guard??!
Smoke from all around,

(units, units be advised there is an attempt 211 to arrest now at 938 temple,
938 temple... 30 subjects with bags.. tryin to get inside the cb's house)

(as long as I'm alive, I'mma live illegal)

Let it burn, wanna let it burn,
wanna let it burn, wanna wanna let it burn

Riots on the streets of Miami,
oh, Riots on the streets of Chicago,
oh, on the streets of Long Beach,
mmm, and San Francisco (Boise Idaho),
Riots on the streets of Kansas City
(Salt Lake, Hunnington Beach, CA),
Tuscalusa Alabama (Arcada Compton Mischigan),
Cleveland Ohio,
Fountain Valley (Texas, Barstow - Let's do this every year),
Paramount, Victorville (Twice a Year),
Eugene OR, Eureka CA (Let it burn, let it burn),
Hesperia (Oh, ya let it burn, wont'cha wont'cha let it burn),
Santa Barbara, Nevada, (let it burn)
Phoenix Arizona,
San Diego, Lakeland Florida, (let it burn).. 29 Palms (wontcha let it burn)

any units assist 334 willow,
structure fire, and numerous subjects looting

10-15 to get rid of this looter..

10-4

9. How did the collapse of the Soviet Unionchange where you lived?

"Itjust gave me peace and cemented that the Cold War was officially over. (See question #1)I was quite young. I didn't really understand current events."

10. O.J. Simpson was arrested for double murder,then received a not guilty verdict. What were your feelings on this?

"He seemed pretty guilty to me. I watched thewhole thing… all the court hearings, it seemed so unfair to see him be setfree. I remember being so mad! At the time, my dad was a judge and I reallyenjoyed hearing his take on all of the proceedings. I will always remember watching the big chase on the freeway, from my TV. OJ in his big white Bronco, and all the police behind him. I remember watching him struggle to put on a glove in the court room...And of course, the infamous Kato Kaelin, the fame hungry witness. Of course, TV shows, SNL and late night TV comedians had a ball with it. Seinfeld, my favorite show, later spoofed the freeway scene showing Kramer on the freeway in a white Bronco."

2011-12-31T23:30:00.002-07:00

Happy New Year!

2012:

Be Yourself. That is all.

2011-12-25T20:59:00.002-07:00

Back into Production!!!

Talk about the finale of Christmas Presents!

Big, big news for Arrested Development fans.

The show is coming back with all new episodes in 2013, exclusively to Netflix.

For the first time in their histories, Twentieth Century Fox Television and Imagine Television will produce original first-run entertainment content for Netflix, reports USA TODAY's Gary Levin.  They are bringing back the acclaimed series to production with new episodes, five years after it was canceled.

Said Imagine Entertainment co-founders Ron Howard and Brian Grazer in the announcement: "Of all the projects we've been involved with over the years, we probably get more questions about Mitch Hurtwitz's brilliant Arrested Development than any other. Everyone, ourselves included, seems to feel like the Bluths left the party a bit too soon."

They added, "Bringing a series back from cancellation almost never happens, but then, 'Arrested' always was about as unconventional as they get, so it seems totally appropriate that this show that broke the mold is smashing it to pieces once again."

I don't think we'll see a Family Guy type of story here, where the show comes back and continues to crank out seasons well after its original cancellation.  There are potential scheduling conflicts, with Will Arnett (Gob), currently on the modest hit NBC show Up All Night, which may get a second season, and Portia De Rossi (Lindsay), who doesn't have anything on her IMDB page blocking a return, but that's another cast member who is in doubt.

Still, you have to think where there's a will, there's a way.  Jason Bateman, who became a go-to comedy star after the show's release, has said that they are looking for a summer 2012 production schedule.  And we may still see a movie, yet.  This is incredible news for Arrested Development fans.  Here's hoping 2013 will be full of new Arrested content.

Source: Netflix Snags New Arrested Development Episodes http://www.reelseo.com/netflix-snags-arrested-development-episodes/#ixzz1hbrfMBv6
©2008-2011 ReelSEO.com Online Video Guide

2011-12-24T22:50:00.000-07:00

So great live 

Whilst sitting on a big ugly yellow couch

2011-12-24T21:32:00.000-07:00

Coolest

Frosty version yet

Zee Avi - Frosty The Snowman by CoverMe

2011-12-22T17:40:00.000-07:00

 Done!

And I only cried a little when they stuck me with the IV in my wrist. It wasn't nearly as bad as I was expecting. Just three little holes in my knee cap and blamo! All fixed. 

2011-12-18T22:51:00.001-07:00

Do you remember this post?

(In August)

Well, four months later my little knee hurts worse than ever. After having to debreed it, filet it and drain it, it turns out that was just surface business with a wound surgeon. I went to an orthopedic surgeon who was surprised I was even able to walk around for the last while... And tomorrow, he is going to get under my knee cap and repair the damage.

Saying I am scared of surgery is putting it lightly. I am terrified. And that is just the surgery part... the aftermath, being stuck on a bed or a sofa not being able to walk or drive for a few weeks.. I am going to go stir crazy.

I have been spending the last hour adding good shows and movies to my Netflix queue. The good news is that Tom and the kids will be home the whole time I am recovering so I will have lots of little helpers and lots of good company.

Tom and his dad, Paul just gave me a priesthood blessing. I have faith that will get me through.

2011-12-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

Font is Everything

2011-12-18T14:26:00.000-07:00

Guest Post

I am excited to introduce you to Susi, a blogger from Design Shuffle, an awesome design blog filled with edgy designs and exciting interiors! She contacted me a while back but since I have not been a great blogger the last month or so, It has taken me a while to post her lovely work.

Thank you Design shuffle! Enjoy :)

Hi, I am Susi, a writer for Design Shuffle, a fabulous social media site where design professionals and design lovers can network, find inspiration and share projects. It's a great place to find new ideas. Speaking of new ideas, I'm excited to be guest blogging here at Tales from the UC today about fun & funky fashion and dÈcor. I looked for rooms and fashions that push the edge a bit of what most of us would wear or how we'd decorate. Isn't that where we get inspiration? Stepping out of our comfort zones? So here is my take on fun & funky fashions and decorating ideas. Hope you are inspired!

Love these bracelets inspired by Ikat... fun and funky, and great inspiration for a room. Or a lamp. So many possibilities.

I want these shoes turned into a room. Curvy lines, buttery suedes, rich colors with a vintage feel? Perfect for a bedroom or living room.

Black and white is so classic in decor, but the chartreuse adds a bit of fun and funky style to this room. Love the chartreuse glass chandeliers. Amazing color.

These fall fashions are definitely funky. Love the mix of vintage design and pattern. I'd love to see the middle one turned into some lively living room designs.

A swinging chair is definitely fun and funky in this living room. Mixes of patterns on the floor and wall is also funky but stylish.

Love the deep blue rug against the red of the sofas. Patterns and accent colors make this living room a fun space. So colorful and cheery.

Love the leopard throw on the bed and the mirror-like finish on the headboard in this bedroom design. A little bit funky and a whole lot of glamour. Fun & funky doesn't always have to be about bold color.

I wish this arm cuff was a pillow. Love the military/handcrafted feeling of it. Fun buttons! Thick knits are cozy to wear and decorate with in fall and winter. Throws, poufs and pillows can all be found in thick, chunky knits.

Can't get enough of these funky interiors? Visit Design Shuffle for more inspiration and to connect with Boston interior designers and†San Francisco interior designers and more! [ Images 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 ]

2011-12-17T21:43:00.001-07:00

I finally decorated for Christmas.

So did the kids...

Next thing on my shopping list, stockings.

2011-12-17T18:04:00.002-07:00

2011-12-17T11:56:00.000-07:00

The Good News!

I scanned some photo's of our very first home.

She just needs a good lawn aeration and she'll be ready to go.

When Tom and I were very first married, we had the lofty dream of finding a beautifully fancy home and living there forever. We rented an apartment for just shy of the first three years of our marriage. It was actually a heavenly apartment with the whole complex in a "U" shape including seven small one level homes. Our home was in the middle with a breezeway on both sides. It was like an individual home with a center front lawn that everyone gathered on. We met some of the loveliest couples there. Every night Tom and I would hang out with them, our kids became best friends, Tom and the boys became inseparable and I couldn't have been happier. Looking back, it was one of the happiest times of our lives.

Until one night on my way out the door Tom mentioned in passing, "Oh, by the way, I may or may not have spotted a mouse a few days before." Sadly, my happiness could not be maintained knowing I was sharing a home with such a scandalous housemate (The mouse, not my husband). I called our landlord, and to make an already long story a little less long, we had to be out by the end of the week. Though Tom may have disagreed at the time, But I thought me getting us getting kicked out was a blessing in disguise as we were finally forced out of our comfort zone and given the option of becoming homeowners. "The one thing I craved more than anything", I had said to Tom. "An opportunity to paint my walls whatever color I wanted. The chance to plant a flower and watch it grow. The ability to pull into my driveway and know that this is my home." I had wanted my own place my whole life and finally that was just around the corner.

Of course with our very small budget of $110,000.00 our lofty goals were not even close to being realized. We found our price range allowing us either a track home (I'll pass) or a very old, very small, low ceilinged homes filled with either offensive odors or toilets out on the front lawn.

I remember the day we finally found her. Tom and I had been out all day house hunting. We had just about given up when we turned down a street filled with old homes and big trees.
There she was. A beautiful two story home with red brick and a shake roof. Huge windows and an immaculate lawn. I told Tom "This is it!" We called immediately and to our dismay, the house had been sold that morning. "But I do have another one just around the corner, more of a fixer upper, but still a very nice home." "I don't care what it looks like." I told Tom, "I am tired of looking, if it's livable, we'll take it."

A fixer upper?

Indeed.

It was a filthy, gross, smelly beyond belief, abused home. But it was everything we ever wanted. High ceilings, twelve inch thick lath and plaster walls, archways, floor to ceiling windows, original wood floors and a blank slate all in one beautifully smelly package. And we loved it instantly. Three rooms and a bath upstairs. A family room, formal dining room, office, kitchen and bathroom on the main. And a spooky a haunted cellar for a basement. All for $96,000.00

I'll never forget pulling that first tampon out of the heating duct.

I owe so much to this home. It was here that I started my interior design business... My first client was a realtor that was showing the place. And from there, the jobs kept coming one after another.

The Bad News!

I don't have any after photos for you at the moment. You'll just have to trust that it turned out smashingly.

2011-12-15T18:11:00.000-07:00

I saw this on a website...

(Which I have forgotten now)

Oh, the little things that make you smile.

Avoidable \uh-voy'-duh-buhl\:

What a bullfighter tries to do.

Baloney \buh-lo'-nee\:

Where some hemlines fall.

Bernadette \burn'-a-det\:

The act of torching a mortgage.

Burglarize \bur'-gler-ize\:

What a crook sees with.

Eyedropper \i'-drop-ur\:

A clumsy ophthalmologist.

Heroes \hee'-rhos\:

What a guy in a boat does.

Paradox \par'-u-doks\:

Two physicians.

Pharmacist \farm'-uh-sist\:

A helper on the farm.

Relief \ree-leef'\:

What trees do in the spring.

Sudafed \sood'-a-fed\:

Bringing litigation against a government official.

2011-12-10T20:29:00.000-07:00

Let Them Eat Cake

2011-12-01T15:42:00.000-07:00

2011-11-26T23:19:00.001-07:00

Take Your Mind Off

These are a few of my very favorite pictures. I've been saving them for a special occasion. And right now, I would be hard pressed to think of a more fitting time.

I have been in love with this front door for years. I almost built an entire house around it... Sometimes I wish I would have. 

Once you open that stunning door, your eyes would feast upon this hall. (In my mind... I have never had the actual pleasure of walking through that front door in real life... Although I've come close to asking.)

And this would be my breath taking Laundry room.... Seriously, I don't think I have ever seen a laundry room more stunning than this one. That floor makes my heart beat just a little faster...

2011-11-24T21:10:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-20T21:50:00.002-07:00

2011-11-20T21:48:00.000-07:00

Have a seat while I tell you something groundbreaking.

Groundbreaking for me, not you.

The last couple of years, I have been feeling less than tip top...

I almost feel like someone has been playing a mean joke,

And my poor body has been the brunt of it.

I couldn't go to the doctor, because I could never really pinpoint what was going on,

I just knew I've felt better.

Until one fine day, (Oct 30 to be exact) a dear friend sent me an email with a list of Celiacs symptoms...

And suddenly it felt as though the heavens had opened unto me;

And screamed, "You are Allgergic to gluten, silly girl!!!"

Talk about a light bulb going off...

So I threw myself into a gluten free lifestyle, Just like

that...

And apart from a minor slip up in New York City (Pizza, you were almost worth it.)

I haven't looked back.

It is going to be a long haul.

But in the end...So worth it.

2011-11-16T20:45:00.000-07:00

Did I Mention We're Moving?

I didn't? Oh, that's because we are not. But if this little stunner were for sale you can bet your sweet britches we would be!

2011-11-16T20:41:00.002-07:00

2011-11-15T21:46:00.000-07:00

Mates of State

Once upon a time there was a young girl who loved music more than anything in the world. I would dare say, she may have lived for it even. Every Friday and/or Saturday night she would go to local shows and disappear into the world of music. In her mind, she was the only one there. Just her and the music. Everything else, everyone else, just sort of went away... And she loved it.  

When she became a mother, her passion for music stayed with her but her desire for attending live shows lessened as her responsibilities shifted. Of course, to this day, she still gets weak in the knees when she is introduced to a good band...And she'll never turn down an opportunity to be alone with her music, whether that be in her car, on a walk or just cleaning the house...On very rare occasion, she will still escape to a live show to find that place where a piece of her heart still lies.

Of course, she has to be very picky now that shows are few and far between...When she heard Mates of State announce their tour, she was in. 

This is why:

Wow! These guys put on such a great show. No, it doesn't have anything to do with Adrien Brody.(Not really him.) It may have something to do with the fact that these guys have been married for over ten years and have two darling little girls that tour with them... I love the way they look at each other. They are passionate about their songs, the words and each other. I could see the way she would look at him and watch him while he was doing his thing, and they would smile at each other... They were having fun. And because of that, we all had fun. 

BONUS: I was with one of my dearest friends, kimberly...The night couldn't have been more spot on.

2011-11-15T20:26:00.001-07:00

Have You Ever Been in Love?

With a piece of furniture?...

For me it was love at first sight.

The chesterfield sofa looks amazingly appropriate in any setting, due to its beautiful lines and classic style. Did you know it also lays valid claim to royalty-being?

I have been in the market for one of these beauties since I was old enough to appreciate furniture... The problem is they are difficult to find, rarely sold in the US and never affordable.

2011-11-14T20:33:00.000-07:00

"you know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams"

dr. seuss

2011-11-14T10:20:00.000-07:00

It's a Start

Dove has recently launched a natural beauty campaign where they tackle issues of what unfeigned beauty truly is, or at least, what it should be. They are bringing real world issues into focus for young girls and even grown women, who may struggle with self esteem or issues of trying to look like what the media tells them is perfect, or thinking their life is a sorry plight because they don't meet a certain weight or look criteria.

Before I go on: Let me go on record...I am not a fan of Dove. I am fully aware they also own the ridiculous product "Axe", whose ads say "Use our stinky, cheap, body spray and you will become 'the cock of the walk', (as they say) and be able to attract the hot women of the world." A tad hypocritical...

However: Putting aside the fact that I feel this particular company is perhaps a bit fraudulent, I have to give props to them for funding these ads, for I think if the young and older girls see some of these, it may make a difference on how they look at themselves.

My wake up call: I must have been a sophomore in high school, I was watching Cindy Crawford on David Letterman. She brought out a a cover of herself on Vogue Magazine. She was beautiful. I thought how lucky she was to be so perfect. But then, she brought out the before version of that same picture... And she showed all that went on in that photo before it was "finished". Her arms and waist had been airbrushed to be half the size they really were, her teeth were whitened, the blemishes on her face were erased... and get ready... so was the cellulite on her thighs. GASP!

The brilliance: The Dove "short stories" do hit home as these issues are real. Our girls are being bombarded by a world of feeling like they need to be physically perfect, or they are not going to be popular, successful or even in some cases, loved. I know this sounds extreme, and not all girls will go through that... But even if one friend, daughter or sister does, then that is one too many.

Show them these ads: Let them *SEE* what reality is.

2011-11-10T17:04:00.000-07:00

Thank you Nordstrom.

Today I was driving my mother's car for a quick trip to the market... Normally I like to drive my own car, because the thing about driving for me is the pleasure of listening to my music... However, my car was blocked in and I had no other choice. When I turned her car on, instead of the easy listening I expected to hear, I was the unfortunate victim of Christmas music. I thought, "You gotta be kidding me!" UGH!!! I'm just not ready for Christmas music until Christmas Eve at the earliest, I would prefer Christmas day, but I am flexible on that. And even then, I only find The Muppet's and Elvis's Christmas acceptable. 

Some years I can handle it better than others... this year isn't one of them.

2011-11-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

Bret and Jemaine

and Murray (and Mel and Dave).

Possibly my favorite characters.

2011-11-09T09:19:00.000-07:00

Just Run With It

In my own home, I have stairs made of wood. I think they are stunning.  A bit dangerous perhaps, but stunning nonetheless. 

Side Note:

When I was designing the lay out of the physical structure of this home, I was so inspired by the homes on the East Coast, loving the brownstones where you walk in and are greeted with a steep staircase and a long hall.... and that's it. If you want to see the rest of the living quarters, you need to be invited into the home...Otherwise, the rest of the layout will remain a mystery forever. 

I digress, the point of this post is to discuss what to do with my staircase. I had it done in solid wood with a custom designed hand forged railing. My point in telling you this, is so you get the idea that it's suppose to be the show stopper of the entry... And like I said before, beautiful.  Did I consider my sweet children when deciding on bare wood? I sheepishly admit, I did not. Now, every time I hear them running down the stairs, I clinch my jaw and hold my breath, waiting for their safe descent.  I have given them each a private tutorial on how to make their way safely down... No running, no jumping, walk steadily and calmly while holding onto the handrail. 

But I remember when I was a small girl, I fell down the stairs every other day...  At one point my big brother gave me my own personal tutorial on how to safely descend the stairs without cracking my head open as I had done in previous attempts.  I think it lasted for about a month then I was running and jumping and falling all over again. (Keep in mind I am more that your average klutz.) 

So I have decided to help cushion the fall if it happens, now I am faced with what to cover them in... And when I say "cover them" I mean provide a a runner for them. I am not a fan of carpet, so this has been a real thinker for me.  Here are some ideas...

All of these are so beautiful in there own respected environment. I am of course, leaning toward the geometric black and white carpet... The only problem I have now is affording four hundred dollars a yard.

2011-11-08T13:47:00.002-07:00

2011-11-08T13:44:00.002-07:00

Girls About Town

Wendy and I in NYC

We Didn't really do anything. It was perfect.

2011-11-07T14:02:00.003-07:00

Wearing It on Your Sleeve
'

2011-11-03T18:33:00.001-06:00

You Can Get With This or You Can Get With That

Nothing you see here is average. They are nimble and honest. I love these rooms.

2011-11-03T17:57:00.000-06:00

This is funny. It's funny because the kid is holding a large drink... Then the dad comes out, and he is also holding a large drink. It's just funny.

2011-10-28T08:57:00.000-06:00

My apologies for being a less than active blogger lately. I've been off my game for a bit but will be back in action very soon. 

I love you and I will love you forever.

2011-10-23T20:36:00.002-06:00

I may be the last person on earth to discover
Single Dad Laughing...

It's a blog in which a single dad, Dan writes in. Obviously, from the title he is a single dad and basically just writes on being a parent. He has funny stories, thoughtful stories, he has heart warming stories as well as heart wrenching stories. His entire blog is just all around a very good read. This particular post really made me think. Its called "You just broke your child, congratulations". He talks about how parents hold the key to their children's self esteem and self image. Hmm, I think this guy may be onto something. Read it, it may inspire you to try to be an even better parent.

Happy Sunday

2011-10-19T23:46:00.000-06:00

Tender

If you know me, You know my thoughts on cats... But you also know my thoughts on how precious mommy and baby mammals are. This is the most tender thing I have seen. I love it. Totally love it. Moms are so loving and protective of their babies... No matter what.

2011-10-18T19:54:00.000-06:00

2011-10-18T19:50:00.000-06:00

Accoutrements

If you have ever read my blog, or spoken to me before, you know I have been having an on going love affair with the Lebanese designer Elie Saab. She just had her spring 2012 fashion show and of course, it was love at first sight.

And if for once my Oscar invite doesn't get lost in the mail, I will be donning this little number on the red carpet.

2011-10-16T21:35:00.008-06:00

I am Starting my Christmas List

Jewelry from Lauren Haupt

2011-10-11T09:24:00.001-06:00

In The Truest Form.

One of the most beautiful poems ever written.

2011-10-10T21:56:00.000-06:00

Ignorance... It's not bliss.

It's just ignorance

Side note:

I belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

I am a Mormon. And I am also a Christian.

Jesus Christ is my Savior and my Redeemer.

This pastor is an idiot.

2011-10-10T21:25:00.001-06:00

Favorite super easy do it yourself costume. You could pull this baby together in an hour. Original and sweet.

"Hoo" knew an owl could be so cute! 

(Points for cheese?)

pic via pinterest

2011-10-10T21:19:00.001-06:00

My Little Tuesday

Poor Baby didn't do anything to deserve that painful outfit her mother made her wear... She does look so precious though, doesn't she?

When selecting Ruby's blessing dress, my sister was clearly inspired by Chanel's winter line.

(Ruby's outfit designed and constructed by my amazing mother. However, I am not sure who engineered it.)

2011-10-09T22:56:00.000-06:00

2011-10-09T20:20:00.001-06:00

Ever Wonder What Your Kids Do While You Sleep?

If they are anything like mine, they borrow your camera and take three hundred pictures of themselves.
I can't help but laugh everytime I download pictures and find stuff like this.

It's those little things...

2011-10-09T19:55:00.002-06:00

The Boys in NYC

It's been a while...

The officer who made Garrett promise he wouldn't skate on The Supreme Courthouse steps anymore, the one who made Liam promise to stop jumping off of everything and the one who made me promise not to encourage it.

This is the best place in all of Manhattan to get breakfast. C'est Bon Cafe. It's in Midtown, 57th Street and just off Park Avenue. Si délicieux!

I had so much fun with my boys. Although we mostly did "boy" things, I did get some boutique shopping in. Since this was Liam's first time there, we took him sight seeing between hitting all the skate spots for Garrett. Liam was so tired, everytime we got on the train he konked out. He had even the hardest of New Yorkers laughing.

OH! And I even got the boys to appreciate cool architecture!

(This being their favorite.)

I am so, so happy when I an there. Nothing speaks to me more.

2011-10-03T20:21:00.000-06:00

Do you love these?

What are your thoughts on this Boho Chic bedroom? I dig the wallpaper wall... I am just not sure whether I would tire of it too quickly. Maybe I will just appreciate it from afar.

Also, Are these not theee most stunning sandals/boots?

I will take these in every color, please.

2011-10-02T23:23:00.003-06:00

So Ready for Soup Days!

If I had to nail down one season to love more than any other season, there is no question fall would be "the one".

Nothing like the crunching of bright orange leaves beneath your boots, stirring grey skies with heavy clouds well above your Burbury beret covered head and most importantly, soft, restful fall fashion and design. Of course, don't think I have over looked the food...Vita mix soups and pumpkin cookies for all three meals, please.

Somethings that really get me excited about the pending cold weather is the "cozy" factor. Give me a cable knit sweater, leggings and tall boots, snuggle me down in a room with a wool blanket a down sofa and wood paneled walls, build me fire and let me sip on warm tea from an over sized mug whilst reading an intense, morose novel with a thoughtful ending...And you will have one soothed girl.

This has to be one of my all time favorite rooms. The wash and style of the panelling, the bed, the floor, that stunning bedspread...Apart from the wall art which I would take down the minute I moved in, I wouldn't change a thing.

Note: In building my own home, I had my cabinet craftsman, German imitate a wash almost identical to these walls using a frosted glaze over the dark espresso stain...To some people (mom and brother)... my cabinets just appear dusty. Let the record show, this is a valid style. And a smart one at that. {If I do say so myself.}

Again with the wood panelling. I dream of finding an old home where the original solid wood panelling is still on the walls in the den. It just makes me swoon.

Love this bedding ensembles. The headboard is so great, and the grey and gold... stunning together. That knit throw pushes this room over the edge.

Doesn't this room make you want to just cuddle up and read a good book? I am loving the one tone walls. Painting out the moulding the same color as the walls not only give a more modern look, but also adds the texture without screaming..."Look,I have an abundance of beautiful moulded walls!" (Which they are...beautiful moulded walls)

Even the simple walls with the painted out moulding the same color... So in, makes the two tone seem so two thousand and one.I also love the warm wood tones with the cool wall color. Great choice.

Everything. about. this. room.

My sweet heavens above, it's stunning!

And saving the best for last, this gorgeous dining room is absolutely spot on. Stop me if I have mentioned this before... But I so love grey and gold together. Yes it goes against the grain, but perhaps that is why it works so well. First, this designer has smartly painted out the trim to match the walls, added this chalky quarter sawn oak{I'm guessing} wood floor and paired these french Louis chairs along with the gold frames and tarnished chandelier to formalize this ever so cozy dining room.

I hope you all will enjoy this beautiful harvest season and get cozy by a snapping fire and eat lots of delicious pumpkin cookies.

2011-10-01T21:34:00.000-06:00

Beautiful Boutique
(They have clothes too.)

This is the new boutique Tory Burch just opened at 797 Madison Avenue. I am so into this carpet selection. It somehow makes the brass deco railing seem... pretty.

If I were ever invited to an opening party of an amazing designer's boutique, I am more than confident the clothing would take a backseat to the design of the building...for me.

I am sure my reaction would go something like this:

"What? They have clothes here, too?"

2011-10-01T11:18:00.000-06:00

Perhaps, a Little? 

I was looking at one of my very favorite fashion blogs and my kids pointed out that someone took a picture of me and put it on their blog. I thought, if only I had those shoes...

2011-09-28T14:51:00.006-06:00

For Sale

If you know me, you know I don't like to sell my own stuff...It just makes more sense to donate it and let someone else benefit from what has already been paid for. However, since the money tree I planted out back hasn't produced anything(yet),...I have decided that if I don't sell this stuff, I won't be able to buy new stuff.
Thus causing my sweet husband, my children and I to sit on the floor to eat our supper.

This is the Delaney sofa from Restoration Hardware. It is just a couple years old, the sofa was $2799.00 and the love seat, $2200.00. They are 100% down filled and so comfy. They are quite a stunning set, I just need something different now.

$900 for the sofa, $750.00 for the love seat.

This lovely little Louis XV style, mid century has a pretty linen upholstery that needs to be cleaned or re done. (That's what I get for sitting my kids to eat in it everyday)
Just to compare... Christie's is selling a similar chair for $1800.00... I am almost positive the quality is comparable ;)

Consider yourself very lucky to have it offered to you at $75.00

Had I decided to keep it, I would've done something like this:

I believe I have eight of these, they are just a pretty and quite detailed dining chair. I bought them for this house, but am deciding to go with Lucite ghost chairs instead. I would say these are decidedly English in style. They were $160.00 each.

$80.00 ea

I am also selling the thick woven, almost cable style sisal rug. It is 8x10 and was a steal at $300.00... I will sell it for $150.00

This is a beautiful Louis XV sofa that has been in my husbands family for forever. I just had it recovered in this gorgeous cut cotton linen. This sofa has been sat on maybe ten times in its life.

$1000.00
(The fabric alone costs about that)

I have two of these. They are $1500.00 sofas. (I got them at RC Willey on sale for $550.00 ea)They have just been sitting in my loft upstairs waiting for me to do something with them. I never will decide what to do with them.

$350.00 ea One Sold One Left!

This is a nice very modern white leather love seat. We just have it sitting upstairs in the gaming area. The kids usually just sit on the floor. I bought it for this house but it never gets used.

$350.00

Also selling the zebra style rug 7x7 for $45.00

This has been in my storage and now my basement for six years, its very pretty and would be awesome for a little girls room. Either leave it this wood stain or paint it a beautiful greige.

$150.00

White velvet headboard. King size. Almost new.

$150.00

Very pale pink (cherry wood underneath) chest.

$50.00

This 8X10 black and grey very contemporary shag rug.

$100.00

This 8X10 sea foam blue wool rug.

$150.00

This is a vanity from the thirties. Lovely.

$150.00

Ethan Allen Chippendale chair and a half. This is a gorgeous matelasse fabric but needs to either be cleaned or re covered.
A linen or chintz slip cover would be fabulous.

$100.00

Full size head and foot board from the forties.
$75.00

Four brand new real wood blinds in chest nut. Can be adjusted in length and a little on the width
24X84. Perfect for patio doors. I paid 150.00 ea
(Ordered the wrong color.)

$45.00 ea

French hall table. One of my very favorite pieces.

$100.00

Cool chair was in a movie...
(I had to wait to pick it up until filming was done.)

$75.00 Sold!

Two of these. One in a box. Brand new, just dusty. Huge and beautiful.
Never underestimate the power of beautiful exterior lighting.

$45.00 ea SOLD!

Two of these. Hand forged Stunning exterior lights. On my current home, I just had two left over.
They were a small fortune.

$100.00 ea

Grandmother clock.

$100.00 SOLD!

Ethan Allen Bombay chest, hand painted.

$200.00 SOLD!

Mirrored night stand.

$100.00

I have name brands on all of this furniture and rugs, apart from some of the vintage stuff. I am away from my house as I list these, so for more information you can email me. Most of this is stuff that has been in our basement collecting dust. So forgive their current state as they all dust off great.

I am going to avoid selling these on the local classifieds. That seems like a major headache.

2011-09-27T11:04:00.000-06:00

2011-09-24T23:14:00.003-06:00

If you ask me about my day today

(Would you look at that cabinetry!)

I will tell you that I've seen better,

but I will also tell you I've seen worse.

I am currently sitting at my desk

(Love this vestibule)

enjoying some Phil Collins hold music

(Marry me, double smeg kitchen)

and I felt inspired to tell you about a reoccurring dream I have.

Wouldn't you agree

that nothing is worse

than hearing about other people's dreams?

(Dream Kitchen)

So consider yourself lucky,

as I am too tired to go into it.

(I am absolutely mad about that spread)

So have yourself some cake

And drink

I'm going to bed.

Night

2011-09-23T21:43:00.000-06:00

Via pinterest

2011-09-21T17:49:00.015-06:00

Alone Apart
.

This is one of my very favorite songs ever to be sang, ever to be heard.

It takes me to another place and when I'm there, I don't want to leave.
.

(Forgive this terribly cheesy youtube video, it had the best sound quality. Just close your eyes, listen and let it take you to another place...Perhaps I'll meet you there.)

2011-09-19T20:45:00.000-06:00

Because I highlighted my favorite designer at NYFW (the one and only ODLR), it would only be fair to highlight my favorite during London Fashion Week. I had a few favorite designers, It was a hard thing for me to narrow down to only a few photos... Without further ado, I bring you my top picks for LFW

Mathew Williamson

Burberry

Issa

Erdem

Paul Smith

A note to the boy(s)

If any read my blog

No, this isn't a fashion blog... It's more of a slapdash blog with no real point other than to satisfy my need to talk a little bit about everything that I love... And I have to say, I so love fashion. I don't love it like I love interior design or architecture. I don't get the same feeling when I look at clothes like I get when I see a beautiful piece of furniture, but I can definitely appreciate fashion for what it adds to my life, the ability to help bring out my personality and show my own emblematic style.

If you are still with me, I appreciate your patience... I will soon get back to... Wait, what is it that I blog about that would draw the attention of boys? Oh, silly me... Nothing.

SO to the girl(s)

(Hi mom)

I will continue to bring you high fashion and cutting edge couture.

2011-09-19T15:45:00.000-06:00

I love a good joke... Not many make me laugh, but for some reason, this one did... My friend Shelby had it on her facebook.

A guy took his girlfriend to her first football game. After the game, he asked her how she liked it. "Oh I really liked it," she replied, "especially the tight pants and the big muscles, but I don't get why they were killing each other over 25 cents." Dumbfounded, her date asked,"What do you mean?" "Well, they flipped a coin, one team got it and then for the rest of the game, all they kept screaming was: 'Get the quarterback, get the quarterback!' I'm like, helloo... it's only 25 cents"

2011-09-17T16:59:00.000-06:00

Oscar de la Renta

Spring 2012

(I am in love with EVERYTHING)

I love this one the most

2011-09-11T23:19:00.001-06:00

2011-09-11T22:52:00.000-06:00

Love You, New York

I see you're still strong after all that's gone on 

Life long we dedicate this song 

Just a little something to show some respect 

To the city that blends and mends and tests 

Since 911 we're still livin' 

And loving the life we've been given 

Ain't nothing gonna take that away from us 

Were looking pretty and gritty 'cause in the city we trust 

Dear New York I know a lot has changed 

2 towers down but you're still in the game 

Home to many, rejecting know one 

Accepting peoples of all places, wherever they're from 

2011-09-08T16:54:00.000-06:00

2011-09-06T22:26:00.001-06:00

As of Late

Polly celebrated her fifth birthday

Sandrine moved back to France

And my beautiful Sister brought us this sweetness at the bottom of the pie!

I call her Tuesday or Rhubarb pie, but her parent's call her Ruby.

2011-09-06T22:03:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday Vivian Polly!

her age:

five

her catch phrase:

"you're laughing at me!"

her preferred meal:

a roll

what she packs for sleep overs:

twelve panties, one shirt, pillow pet

her nick names:

pollyanna, squinkie, biv, polly-ita

her cheeks:

like rose milk

her shoes:

always lost

her voice:

musical

her wit:

fresh

where she sits:

where ever Liam wants to

her dream:

"i'm gonna be a rock star"

how she walks:

with purposeful wonderment

her insecurities:

wearing two braids in her hair

her bed:

never slept in

what she's proud of:

there isn't enough room

her nails:

layered with polish

her feelings:

on her sleeve

her eyes:

bright

her hair:

messy

her heart:

golden

2011-09-04T09:48:00.000-06:00

Even though this version is more instrumental than I prefer, this is one of my favorite songs. (Austin City Limits version is awesome... However, I can't find it anymore.) Its a heartbreaking story... But the best stories always are.

2011-09-03T22:40:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow's Church Dress

I don't know what the front looks like...

But with a back like that, who cares?

(Ellie Saab 2011)

2011-09-03T22:30:00.001-06:00

I am working right now,

As I have been most of the day.

Apart from my work, it's been a fine day.

It seems as though a cold front has decided to settle in and I have to say,

It's been lovely.

Last night even got a little chili, for my toes at least.

And I finally got to pull out my heating pad.

(Not that I really ever put it away)

Oh, how I love heating pad weather.

Forgive me for my pleasantries and weather talk ...

I just don't have any groundbreaking opinions to give tonight.

Surprised?

I thought so.

I just wanted to post these lovely pictures

and see how you are doing?

I hope this post finds you well

And if it doesn't,

I hope looking at these pretty pictures will at least make you smile (temporarily).

It sometimes works for me.

2011-08-31T22:24:00.000-06:00

2011-08-31T11:09:00.000-06:00

Levi's New Ad Campaign

I have some real opinions on this. I have debated whether or not  I should go into it because I feel I often times give too much of an annoyed point of view on things. BUT... I can't help myself today. I will, in the future, choose my battles. But even if this were the future, this would be one battle I would definitely choose. My reason for weighing in on this one: This ad campaign uses the words of Charles Bukowski, who is in my opinion,one of the all time greats. And although this commercial is beautiful to listen to (Thanks to Bukowski, not Levi's)  I find it undermines everything he stood for. And frankly, I think it's an insult.

Some of the YouTube comments were great on this topic.  I found this one by FreddiPhillips. I couldn't have said it better myself.

"Conflicting piece of art. Alone it would work for me, but this way it really just confuses me. It's an anarchistic piece that stands behind a huge greedy Corp. that has been funding heavy pockets for the longest time. Also, This is directed at the western world it seems....What are these good looking brats complaining about then? Have these people traveled to the rest of the world? Protest for what? better Internet speed? Please clarify....

PS. Beautiful song and images."

Don't get me wrong, I really like Levi's. I like their brand, I like their designs, I like their quality. In fact, I love Levi's... as far as jeans go. But did they really need to take it upon themselves to sell all of the freedom and hope that Bukowski wrote about? That stuff is free. 

Honestly, I don't know why I care so much. It just bothers me. As another YouTube commenter said,
"You can do all of these things in crusty, thrifted, brandless jeans. Remember."

The Laughing heart

By Charles Bukowski

your life is your life

don’t let it be clubbed into dank submission.

be on the watch.

there are ways out.

there is a light somewhere.

it may not be much light but

it beats the darkness.

be on the watch.

the gods will offer you chances.

know them.

take them.

you can’t beat death but

you can beat death in life, sometimes.

and the more often you learn to do it,

the more light there will be.

your life is your life.

know it while you have it.

you are marvelous

the gods wait to delight

in you.

2011-08-29T22:16:00.001-06:00

I miss going for half off appetizers with you guys :(

2011-08-28T20:34:00.001-06:00

2011-08-28T15:10:00.000-06:00

The Little Things I Love...

When peaches are in season
Expensive toilet paper
Exfoliating shower gloves
Sarcasm
Old Jeans
The perfect pair of sunglasses
Getting my hair washed at the salon
A good Mosquito bite
Worn leather boots
A steak grilled to perfection
Luxurious bath milks and lotions
A smart come back
French toast and hot syrup with cold milk
Thick towels
The night air