beautiful.dirty.rich.

roll tide.

2011-10-13T10:29:00.000-07:00

being a HUGE fan of the foosball, fall is my favorite season. cooler weather, tailgating, NFL and college ball all make me one happy camper!

this morning, UPS arrived with a lovely package wrapped in black and white houndstooth paper. it was addressed to my dad so I didn't open it but when my dad pulled out the contents and declared, "I don't think is going to fit me," I jumped on it. turns out, it was a gift to me from our company president and his girlfriend! my mom and dad are headed to Alabama in a couple of weeks for a broker's meeting and I have to stay behind to run the office, so Wyles and Brandi sent me a little care package.

roll Tide!!!

so excited to sport this for the next game!

xoxo

long live McQueen. part deux.

2011-10-04T14:45:00.000-07:00

a big thank you to my mom who surprised me with the amazing Sid Dickens tile that has completed the McQueen tribute in my great room.

{perfection.}

I'm thoroughly obsessed.

xoxo

a place to call home.

2011-09-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

last night I got home from a 3 hour dinner with a couple of aunts and uncles and my parents. we drank wine, we ate wonderful food, and we had lovely conversation. this is the norm for me on a Sunday evening. we gather, as a family, at some one's home for an evening together. it's typical for me to just expect this to happen because it always does.

when I got home, I slipped off my shoes and was getting ready to settle on the couch with my Kindle when the doorbell rang. I wasn't expecting anyone but when I looked out the peep-hole and saw a young girl, I wasn't really alarmed. I opened the door, said hello, and asked if I could help her. she asked, "can you call 911?" my first alarm goes off. is this one of my neighbor's children? what's happened? I asked her such and she said, "I went AWOL from my group home. I need you to call the police." so I called, talked to the operator, and when she assured me that someone was on their way, I went back outside and told the girl to sit on the rocking chairs with me until someone came for her.

I found out her name is Tania. she's 16. she lives in a group home just one road over from me, which, mind you, I didn't even know existed. she had been at the movies (she saw Harry Potter) and when she got back to her group home she decided she didn't want to be there, so she ran away. I could tell that there was something off about her. she has scratches and scars all over her arms. she couldn't stop fidgeting. she had a blank, almost lethargic look on her face. when the police arrived a few minutes later, I stood outside with them while they talked to her. my house and her group home are outside of city jurisdiction so we had to wait for the county Sheriff. all the while, the officers are talking to her quietly, calmly. not scolding her, just asking her why she didn't want to stay at her group home. she replied with, "I just don't like it there."

the police officers are talking to her and I'm standing back, trying to comprehend everything that's happening. this poor girl, who's only 16, has been abandoned by her drug-abusive parents, has no family around here (she's from a town about an hour northeast of where I live), and has no friends. nothing to call her own. my heart broke. I couldn't stop sobbing. the police officers both gave me a hug, told me thank you for calling, and went along their way.

I went inside and called my mom. I was almost on the verge of an anxiety attack. I just spent the last three hours with my wonderful, amazing, loving family, and this girl has nobody to turn to. I come home to my brand new house with my brand new furniture, a refrigerator full of fresh food, and anything I could ever need. this girl goes "home" to a place filled with other girls and no individualized attention. she has to share everything she has. I have a whole list of people I could call at any moment, people who I call friends. this girl has nobody to call and say hi or to ask how their day was. my life turned around.

Tania told me she liked to read. she's only seen a few of the Harry Potter movies but she likes them. she's keeping up with her school work.

I have to help this girl.

I'm gathering all of my 16-year-old-appropriate books and putting them in a box. do you have any books that would be appropriate for a teenager that you would like to donate? if so, please send me an email - I'll give you an address to send them. I can't think of any other way to show this girl that there are people who care. people who do want to see her succeed. in my thirty minutes spent with this young girl, I saw the desperation in her eyes. her need for someone to care. I want to be that person. I also know there are other people like me who want to help. so please, if you have anything - one book, two books, fifty books - please let me know. I'll be filling boxes and driving them to her myself. I'll even take a picture with her if she's ok with that.

the lesson I learned last night - never take what you have for granted. just because someone has a bigger house, a nicer car, bigger diamonds, or more shoes than you doesn't mean they're any more blessed than you are. it's all in perspective. appreciate everything you have - some people have nothing to call their own, not even a family.

blessings to you, loves.

xoxo

hyperactive.

2011-09-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

thanks to the man friend for dropping this off last night.

my office staff ~~hates~~ thanks you.

xoxo

the name game.

2011-09-12T08:54:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! long time no see!

as you've probably noticed, I've been MIA for a while. my sincerest apologies - life has been insane. part of this insanity was my poor little Tiffany (yes, I named my car) broke down in OAKLAND on a Friday night after the Giants game. thank goodness I had someone with me because I would have freaked out {royally} if I had been by myself! long story short, my beloved Tiffany just wasn't as reliable as she used to be and I had to trade her in. I was very sad but at the end of the day, I'm so excited about my new car and my ability to go here-there-and-everywhere without worrying if I'll make it home or not!

now, for the hard part. my little baby has to be named!! I traded Tiffany in for a 2010 Acura ZDX and at present, I don't know if it's a boy or a girl. so, my dears, help me decide! any ideas for my new ride?

love that new car smell.

throw your thoughts in that suggestion box down there!

have a great day loves!

xoxo

weekend happy.

2011-09-02T11:24:00.000-07:00

happy Labor Day weekend, my loves!

sorry I've been MIA - I've been working hard {and, sometimes, hardly working} and am just trying to get caught up! tonight, I'm off to the Giants game with one of the man friends and I'm quite tickeled :)

here's a few highlights from my week/upcoming weekend:

it's up. it's up it's up it's up!!!!!

[close]-up. I'm thoroughly obsessed.

Color the Skies is this weekend and the ballons started doing their practice runs this morning. I can't wait to watch all of the hot air balloons from a rocking chair on my front porch!

what are your big plans for this weekend?

stay lovely, dolls.

xoxo

long live McQueen.

2011-08-26T09:10:00.000-07:00

happy Friday dolls!

it's here. it's finally here. after a serious haggle with the framing department at my local Aaron Brothers, my poster has been framed. once my dresser is centered and my poster is on the wall, I'll post better pictures. until then, what you see is what you get!

happy weekend, my loves!

xoxo

oxymoron.

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

lately with this dry heat and no hint of a Delta breeze, I've been craving a weekend at the beach. no, not the it's-hot-I'm-sweating-and-have-to-get-in-the-ocean-with-the-seaweed [ew] kind of beach. the I-see-the-ocean-but-I'm-still-in-a-sweater-and-jeans kind of beach. overcast, chilly, {sea spray}, and bon fires. all the things a beach in the fall should be. I think Santa Cruz is calling my name......

what are you craving these days?

xoxo

skeleton in my closet.

2011-08-22T09:18:00.000-07:00

happy Monday dolls! how's everyone doing today?

as some of you may know, I have a bit of an obsession with skulls - I absolutely love them. I don't have any incorporated into my home decor as of yet, as I'm trying to find a way to integrate them without frighting my young cousins! but I've now found the perfect start and I can't wait to share it with you! also, I may need your help - I'm looking for a small to medium skull artifact {preferably not real, that goes a bit far, even for me} of any medium. I'm talking drawer pull, a few pieces of jewelry, even a plate or tea cup. just something I can mount between my McQueen post card sets that I've framed. in true McQueen fashion, I'd love for this skull to be slightly authentic, and less sugar skull-frilly.

any ideas/references/links for me, my loves?

have a great day!

xoxo

happy weekend.

2011-08-19T10:30:00.000-07:00

hi dolls!

I wanted to leave you with just one thought that would lead to a happy weekend but I've found so many, I couldn't pick. remember - the quality of your life is up to you. choose wisely.

happy weekend, my loves.

xoxo

obvy.

2011-08-18T09:08:00.001-07:00

xoxo.

score one for Cuba.

2011-08-16T09:27:00.000-07:00

hi dolls!

today, I want to share with you an article that was written by a dear friend of mine. he recently took a trip to Cuba and did a write up on an issue that is very prevalent in American society today. please check it out and give me some feedback!

http://www.lgbtqnation.com/2011/08/transgender-woman-gay-man-wed-in-first-lgbt-wedding-in-cuba/

the story was also featured on Perez Hilton this morning [which means it's probably been viewed more times by young America than by the general population as a whole]. I've messaged Andy (what I grew up calling him - he goes by Jonathan now) and told him that he should send in his article to Mr. Hilton and have his article linked - wouldn't that be cool?!

xoxo.

need.

2011-08-15T09:56:00.000-07:00

there are two things I need.

right now.

in unlimited form, please.

xoxo

roughing it.

2011-08-11T09:52:00.000-07:00

hi dolls!

I'm off to a cabin in the woods for the rest of the week/weekend! and no, I'm not talking about my mountain paradise [unfortunately]. I'm talking about roughing it in a cabin with a bathroom the size of my shower {although, thinking about that, it's still bigger than the bathroom at The Hudson....} and mosquitos the size of quarters. ok, maybe that's not true (the mosquito part), but there are bugs. and squirrels. and bears. [and not the human kind. ha.]

I can only spend a few days in this little mountain house (although my parents adore it. I still haven't figured that one out.), so I'll be back on Monday. this is a little too much roughing for my taste but I'll be honest, I'm looking forward to the complete lack of cell service. no phone calls, no text messages, no emails, no Twitter feed. for three. whole. days.

{glorious abandon} at it's finest.

have a great weekend, loves!

xoxo

subway tile dreams.

2011-08-10T12:53:00.000-07:00

so I've been dreaming of putting a subway tile backsplash in my kitchen. I just can't handle the plain-ness of my kitchen so I've been researching subway tiles and I even have someone who will help me put it in! here are a few inspirations I've found:

traditional kitchen design by new york kitchen and bath Susan Serra, CKD

traditional kitchen design by austin architect Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects

contemporary kitchen design by san francisco interior designer Amoroso Design

traditional kitchen design by san francisco architect Buttrick Wong Architects

I'm still sad that I couldn't go with white cabinets [an extra $15,000 to paint cabinets white?! I don't think so.] so I'll be looking for the right combination to go with both my cabinets and my granite. does anyone have any good suggestions/resources?

have a great day, loves!

xoxo

score of the weekend.

2011-08-08T09:49:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! happy Monday!

this weekend, I scored royally at Trader Joes when I found five gladiola stems for $2!! I bought ten and put them in my new quilted vase.

love love love!

tell me about your weekend, loves!

xoxo

weekend happy.

2011-08-05T08:57:00.000-07:00

happy Friday dolls!

I hope you all have a fantastic weekend - I'll be busy with a Giants game tonight, wedding dress shopping with my dear friend Natalie tomorrow morning/afternoon and date night tomorrow night, and a run-through for some wedding hair on Sunday! phew! I'll leave you with a couple pictures of my newest purchases....

finally commited to a couple pillows for my bed! love them!

this quilted vase was on super sale - such a great find! can't wait to buy some flowers at the farmer's market to give it a pop of color!

I also ordered a new coffee table - it's not that I really needed a new one but the one that I have is just a little too small for my great room. the one I ordered is much larger but similar in color, so I'm looking forward to seeing how it works! may have to do some furniture arranging but that's ok, it's all part of the fun, right?!

have a great weekend, loves!

xoxo

showdown: tourist vs. local.

2011-08-04T09:50:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

before I left on our trip to NYC, I had so much planned - specifically, where mom and I would eat. we would only be out of the city one out of six days, so I had all sorts of delicious eateries on my "to do" list. well, as always, you get somewhere and things change (like getting car sick on the cab ride from the airport to the hotel, mom refusing to get into a cab after that, our lack of wanting to get on the subway, and all around general lack of enthusiasm due to the ridiculous heat/humidity factor). we ended up going out to eat a total of six times in six days. you do the math!

our most memorable meals include:

Whole Foods was right around the corner from our hotel. needless to say, cheese, crackers, fruit, chocolate, and wine brought from home were necessary.

the aftermath at Landmarc. I couldn't even wait to take a picture before we ate, we were famished lol.

our wine choice for evening #1 at Bocca di Bacco. a little young, not my fav, but it worked.

pan seared salmon with sauteed spinach and roma tomatoes. so yummy.

garganelli ossobucco for mom. she said it was incredible. I couldn't try it so I wouldn't know lol.

wine on night #2 at Bocca di Bacco. Amarone, if you please. grazi to my dear Alessandro, who I'll definitely be seeing again!

again, I'd make a horrible food blogger. mussels, after {obvy not before}.

I know I have a Bouchon dangerously close to me [less than 2 hours] but I'm glad it's far enough away to not be able to go on a regular basis. these macarons are HUGE.

although I'm sad I didn't get to go to nearly all of the places on my list of "must eats," I'm glad we ate where we did. I didn't get sick and I enjoyed every meal we had. if you want a great local place, try out Bocca di Bacco - the staff is friendly and extremely attentive. even the Italian-native waitress, whose English was slightly questionable, knew exactly what I meant when I said I was allergic to wheat and gluten ("Celiac?" she asked, to my astonishment). you just earned yourself a giant tip, my dear! at the end of the day, mom and I both agreed that we definitely enjoyed the local joint as opposed to the more trendy Landmarc. not that Landmarc wasn't great, but the staff was more friendly and the atmosphere was much more like our favorite hometown restaurant instead of a tourist attraction. that definitely earns big points with us!

have a great day, loves!

xoxo

third time's a charm.

2011-08-03T10:36:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing?

I'm back from NYC and as much work as I have to do, I thought I'd share a few photos with you!

the chandelier at The Hudson {which, by the way, has the city's smallest hotel rooms. no lie.}.

Private Terrace at The Hudson. we sat out here a few nights and had cocktails. absolutely lovely!

Lincoln Tunnel traffic on a Friday night going INTO the city. bad idea.

I saw this and got weak in the knees. beyond thrilled.

why, hello, Mr. Franklin.

"This was the noblest Roman of them all...."

I'd like this for my mantle. NBD.

a little Jackie O via Warhol for your mind.

the most wonderfully intricate religious artifacts at The Met. breathtaking.

religious shrine. I wish you could see the detail - it's absolutely amazing!

next DIY [haha, right!] - all of the designs were made of draped fabric. seriously!

my Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty book. holographic. genius. brilliant.

unfortunately, no photography of any kind was allowed in the McQueen exhibit {no surprise there} and security was pretty tight, so I didn't even try to sneak one. I'd be lying if I said I didn't cry - tears came to my eyes multiple times while walking through the exhibit. he was an artist to the extreme and walking by his creations was just a punch in the gut - knowing his genius is no longer on this earth. I did buy the book, as well as the poster AND the post card set, which I will be having framed and put up in my house as soon as possible! I'm quite excited about that!

next up - food :)

have a great day loves!

xoxo

stressed much?

2011-07-27T09:46:00.000-07:00

this morning, after running around frantically trying to finish packing, water plants so they don't die while I'm in the concrete jungle, and, of course, vacuuming [because you know I can't come home to a dirty house. ew.], I got in my car, turned the key, threw it in reverse, and went to press the button for my garage door to close.

I looked down and noticed - I'M STILL IN MY F^@%!#& ROBE!!!

seriously?

{get me out of here}

see you on the flip side of Tuesday.

xoxo

butterflies.

2011-07-26T09:24:00.000-07:00

in less than 3 days, I'll be standing in the Alexander McQueen Savage Beauty exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I'm excited and nervous at the same time. what if it's totally packed and I get all crazy and start pushing people out of my way and then security comes and escorts me out? what if I get caught trying to sneak pictures with my iPhone? what if I walk through the whole exhibit and forget everything I've seen? I'm terrified at the idea of not remembering a damn thing.

until then, I guess I can just daydream my way around the exhibit and be nervous/giddy/excited about the whole ordeal. and you bet your bee-hind I'll be trying to sneak photographs. {that is, unless I'm too overwhelmed and I totally forget, but that's to be seen....}

xoxo

stuffed.

2011-07-25T09:05:00.000-07:00

I have this bad habit. it's called "over packing." it's really horrible. I always think of just one more thing to put in my suitcase before a trip. but it doesn't end at just one. "one more thing" turns into about 18 more things and by the time I'm satisfied, my suitcase won't shut. once I rearrange, [sit on it], zip it up, lug it to the car and into baggage check, I have to pay an extra gazillion dollars because it's overweight. seriously. bad habit.

considering it's going to be 100+ degrees in NYC {not to mention the humidity factor} I'm totally stressed out about weather-appropriate attire to pack. and I haven't even started to worry about shoes.....

what to do, loves?

xoxo

fact.

2011-07-21T09:25:00.000-07:00

no expectations.

no disappointments.

xoxo

it's good to be bad.

2011-07-20T09:41:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

last night, I went from this:

{blonde bombshell.}

to this:

come to the dark side with me.

I'm feeling very {vixen-ish} today.

xoxo

kiss your face off.

2011-07-19T09:23:00.000-07:00

if this isn't the cutest face I've ever seen, I don't know what is.

xoxo

reality bites.

2011-07-18T10:19:00.000-07:00

I'm back! and trust me, I wish I weren't.....

my clock is way off and it's guaranteed as soon as I get back on track, I'll be leaving again. not my idea of a good time.

the cabin was amazing and I really wish I were still there! my mom and myself, her two best friends and their daughters {and one daughter-in-law} were all in on our little mountain getaway and we had such a blast. spending the days by the pool, evening drinking wine and cocktails and eating delicious food, and one night of seriously drunk debauchery were all in the cards and coming back to the Valley was a little rough. catching up on laundry and housework was not what I had in mind after a lovely little vacay but when you live by yourself, nobody else is going to do it for you! I dusted, vacuumed, scrubbed bathrooms, mopped floors, and even transplanted some lovely little herbs so I can use them in my recipes. basil, thyme, oregano, and chives are now brightening up some pots in my backyard and let me just tell you - they smell delicious!

I've got a busy week ahead of me, including a Giants game tonight [duck the fodgers!! LOL], a hair appointment tomorrow night, a dentist appointment early Wednesday morning, and trying to arrange a car and a few extras for my NYC trip next week.

what does everyone else have planned for the week?

have a great day loves!

xoxo

I've got two tickets to paradise.

2011-07-11T10:51:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

I'm headed out with my mama to our mountain paradise this afternoon and I couldn't be more excited!! five days of relaxing, hiking, and sunning with my mom and her two best friends (aka my "other mothers") and my {sister} Kim. get ready, girls! it's going to be a fantastic week!

I'll see you all on the flip side of Sunday!

xoxo

date night with dad.

2011-07-07T12:43:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

last night I had date night with Papa Bair and I took a few pictures to share the deliciousness that was our dinner at Marlowe:

session lager for dad, prosecco with ruby grapefruit for me.

the delicious and infamous brussels sprout chips. this isn't my personal photo but they were beyond delicious - I highly recommend them if you go!

after chowing on the Marlowe burger {for me} and the crab louie and stuffed sole {for dad}, which I obviously didn't take photos of since 1. I have none and 2. we devoured our meals in no time. we headed over to AT&T Park for a lovely evening at the game.

thanks for pulling the W for us Nate the Great!!

xoxo

writer's block.

2011-07-06T09:54:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

I've been experiencing a serious case of writer's block {otherwise known as not enough randomness in my life to muster up a decent post} so I want to apologize for my absence! today isn't any different but I'm headed to San Francisco with my dad after work for dinner at Marlowe and a Giants game, so hopefully I'll have a semi-interesting food experience to blog about tomorrow! has anyone ever dined there?

brussels sprout chips? yes please.

{baseball butts drive me nuts.}

until then, have a great day loves!

xoxo

"I can't" is not in my vocabulary.

2011-06-30T11:15:00.000-07:00

hi loves! how's everyone doing today?

I've been in a rut and feeling down about the whole situation, so today when I saw that the Jillian Michaels online program (6 month) was on sale on Gilt City for less that $50 - I jumped on it. you're looking at the newest member of the Jillian Michaels club, my friends! workouts, meal plans, weight and inch trackers, it's all there to help aid me in my fitness and lifestyle needs.

you frighten me, Ms. Michaels.

I'll be keeping you updated on my progress :)

xoxo

wordless wednesday.

2011-06-29T09:50:00.000-07:00

xoxo

grill party.

2011-06-28T10:54:00.000-07:00

hi loves! how's everyone doing today?

tonight, I'm having four of my dear friends over for a little dinner party, and I'll be firing up the grill for a little summer BBQing. on the menu:

homemade angels on horseback - probably not as delicious as the ones at Wayfare, but I digress....

arugula salad with fresh ~~crack~~ strawberries.

skewered shrimp with lemon, chili flakes, and garlic.

I'm letting my control issues go a little and letting Natalie bring dessert - I'm really rather excited about it! I know whatever she makes is going to be absolutely delicious!

what's everyone doing this evening?

xoxo

love knows no boundaries.

2011-06-27T10:33:00.000-07:00

in light of the approval of gay marriage in the state of New York, I have some thoughts I'd like to share with everyone. as citizens of the United States of America, we are all entitiled to our own opinions. as {human beings}, we are entitled to respect those opinions. unfortunately, that's not always the case. I'm as hard-headed as they come - an only child whose dad is half Portuguese and half Italian - I'm stubborn, strong-willed, and when I think I'm right, that's usually the last word [at least in my mind]. I was raised in a Christian household. we went to church every Sunday without fail. I was sent to a private Catholic grade school and high school, and went to a Catholic college. I wasn't raised Catholic but I took my Sacraments as an adult and go to mass regularly. I tell you this not to tell you all the details of my life but to tell you that just because you're part of an organized religion doesn't mean everything they tell you to believe in is right. I know many other Catholics who feel the same way as I do. you don't have to agree with anyone else but you do have to respect their opinions.

I've been inundated with hateful opinions regarding the LGBT community (not here! mostly from television/news) and it breaks my heart every time I hear these words spewed. I understand that these are your opinions and I have to respect them but I feel like there's always a more tasteful and less-hurtful way to voice your thoughts. I'm a personal believer that love does not recognize race, gender, or age. I was raised to love - never once in my house did my parents ever tell me that being gay is wrong. I was always told to evaluate someone by their character, not by who they love [makes sense, right?]. I could go into bible arguments and all that, as well {my eyes have been opened to some new [to me] facts and historical findings - they're quite interesing. email me if you want to talk about it more!} but that's another novel, my friends. I believe that God put all of us on this earth for a reason. I do not believe that being gay is wrong. in the words of Lady Gaga (how much more cliche can I get?! lol), you were born this way. God makes no mistakes - it's so true yet some people turn a blind eye. I can't fathom how people deny that God makes everyone an individual yet they refuse to accept the fact that people are born gay.

love knows no boundaries and your sexual orientation should by no means restrict your ability to marry. I have so many friends who have hidden their true selves because they were afraid of retaliation from their family and friends. this seriously breaks my heart. if I loved you before you came out of the closet, I'm absolutely going to love you after you do so! I want my friends to be 100% themselves around me, and I will never judge you.

if you feel so inclined, please share your opinions. listening and respect are always obligitory over here. hate and biggotry are always rejected. let's share the love, not the hate.

have a great day, my loves!

xoxo

happy Friday.

2011-06-24T09:14:00.001-07:00

xoxo.

can't we all just get along?!

2011-06-23T10:04:00.000-07:00

"friendship is not how you {listen} but how you understand." - unknown.

lately there's been a lot of passive-aggressiveness in my universe. none of it directly pertains to me but I'm so sick and tired of hearing about it that I feel like I have to take out my frustrations on my virtual friends. this situation has nothing to do with anyone in my cyber-world but I'm not going to use names strictly because this is not my situation to air, and therefor I refuse to air out anyone else's dirty laundry without permission. but I will say this - at our age {ranging from 25 - 28, respectively} we should be able to voice our concerns and annoyances like civil adults. we should not send cryptic text messages, post vague Facebook status updates just so people can ask "what's going on?? OMG are you ok??", and we should definitely not be gossiping behind one another's backs. I'm at a point in my life where, if I have something to say to you, I'm going to say it to your face [if logistically possible]. if I say what I need to say and you can't accept the fact that I have the decency to say it to you directly and I lose your friendship in the process, you probably weren't a true friend in the first place. if we can't work/talk it out, then you obviously didn't really value our friendship all that much.

I'm writing this because when two friends are fighting/being passive aggressive/no longer speaking but can't let it go, the rest of their friends suffer. I've made my fair share of mistakes when it comes to friendships so I'm not claiming to know the ins and outs of how any sort of relationship works, friendship, romantic, or somewhere in between, but I do know that as maturing adults, we should no longer put ourselves or anyone else in these uncomfortable situations.

in this age of social networking, all of our business is out for everyone to see. if you have something to talk about with someone, do it in private. not over a Facebook status, not through Twitter, or any other public forum you currently occupy. I'm guilty of doing so and now somewhat regret not going to that person in the first place. once it's out on the web, it's nearly impossible to get it back. let's all be adults, people. the people of who today's rant is concerning know where I stand on their situation and they have been informed of my feelings, which is why I'm venting about it to you. let's start practicing what we preach and be classy individuals - it makes everyone so much more appealing.

xoxo

it was a mild 103 here yesterday....

2011-06-22T10:38:00.000-07:00

and it's only supposed to get hotter.

stay cool, my loves.

xoxo

torn.

2011-06-21T10:43:00.000-07:00

today I'm torn - stuck between a rock and a hard place. I had a totally different post scheduled for today but I wanted to share a few thoughts I have. I'll be 100% honest and tell everyone that I have never seen any of the Jackass franchise - I've never watched a movie or even an episode on MTV. I don't like that kind of "entertainment" and to be frank, it really grosses me out. I did enjoy watching Viva la Bam most of the time, I think because all of the stunts and pranks were really toned down. but that's beside the point - today, family and friends are mourning the tragic loss of Ryan Dunn.

Ryan Dunn was by no means a favorite reality star of mine, nor did I think of him much, but I do know his name and had seen him on Viva la Bam. the uprising by Bam Margera and friends and followers regarding Roger Ebert's Twitter comment {"friends don't let jackasses drive drunk"} has been something I've been pondering since yesterday. here's where the rock and the hard place come in. I completely agree that friends should not allow friends (or complete strangers, for that matter) drive drunk. there is nothing in that statement that I do not agree with. on the other side, Roger Ebert's articulation could have been a little more sympathetic. am I wrong in thinking that it was far too soon and absolutely inappropriate for him to call Ryan Dunn a "jackass" while his family, friends, and loved ones are mourning his loss? yes, I know he starred in shows AND 3 movies entitled "Jackass" but does anyone else think this was entirely inappropriate? someone has died, and you're calling him a jackass? out of line, Mr. Ebert, out of line. there are almost always more tactful ways of going about things like this and I believe Roger Ebert crossed a line. do you?

I do not and will never endorse driving drunk. there's always a safer option. the cause of Ryan Dunn's accident has not been officially determined and I'm going to give him the benefit of the doubt. there are numerous conflicting reports on the level of his intoxication and I'm going to say innocent until proven guilty. yes, there are pictures of him drinking, but I have lots of pictures of me drinking where I am not drunk and did not proceed to get drunk, or even buzzed for that matter. that doesn't make it right but until tests conclude otherwise, I'm going to say he was ok to drive.

this is a sad situation and I hope that the air is cleared either way. if he was driving drunk, I hope his family and friends use this situation and it's publicity for the greater good - education and awareness are key, especially when it comes to the people who look up to individuals such as Ryan Dunn. we all know who the key market is in regards to these films and programs, so let's all jump on the bandwagon and encourage education when it comes to drinking and driving. one life saved is worth the effort.

rest in peace, Ryan Dunn.

xoxo

market finds.

2011-06-20T10:25:00.000-07:00

good morning dolls! how's everyone doing today?

I'm off to a funeral but just wanted to give everyone a weekend recap....

my first Blue Bottle. now having withdrawls....

Tell Tale macarons with my Blue Bottle. {breakfast of champions}

Tell Tale lemon curd. [to.die.for.]

chocolate macaron from Miette. so delicious.

of course, I needed a little protein. hence, the Boccalone meat cone.

finished off the night with a delicious tequila cocktail {made by the lovely Morgan} at 15 Romolo.

how was your weekend, loves?

xoxo

family, farmer's market, and fancy frocks.

2011-06-17T09:11:00.000-07:00

happy Friday dolls! how's everyone doing today?

tonight, I'm off to the Bay to spend time with my "other" mama, my "sister from another mister {and mrs., for that matter}", and another future "sister" for the evening.

we're practically related. I promise.

Saturday morning I'll be up bright and early to meet a friend at the San Francisco Ferry Farmer's Market and I absolutely cannot wait for the lovely finds I'll be tasting.

sweet like candy, smooth as velvet.

Tell Tale Preserves.... I love ANYTHING that comes in a jar. for realsies.

my, what big blueberries you have....

I also have a little mini date on Saturday evening in the North Shore district, so I'll be putting on a pretty little frock and keeping my fingers crossed ;-)

what do you lovelies all have planned for the weekend?

xoxo

light it up.

2011-06-16T09:09:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

while browsing the Gilt Groupe sales this morning, I came across the Cyan Lighting & Decorative Accessories sale, only to find this lamp:

purdue crystal table lamp. {found here}

looks [color-wise] juxtopositionaly familiar to something in this room....

don'tcha think???

guess who has two thumbs, only paid $40 for her lamps (and not $200 - on sale), didn't have to pay $25 in shipping, and is happy as a clam right now?

this girl.

xoxo

hot like ice.

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

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

seeing as the weather is getting warmer, my morning routine is changing slightly. runs outside instead of at the gym, for example. I'm also craving protein-laced smoothies as opposed to my normal scrambled eggs and whole grain [gluten-free, of course] toast. another big {and most important, for that matter} change is how I like my coffee. no more hot, steamy mugs of Joe for me. nope, it's all about the simple iced coffee - a big heap of ice laced with dark brew with just a splash of soy milk. delicious....

dark, yet creamy. just the way I like it.

do you prefer iced coffee in the summer months? or do you stick to the hot stuff?

have a great day, loves!

xoxo

summer dressing.

2011-06-14T09:21:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

I'm love love loving this sunny, warm weather here in Northern California and I'm just itching to fill up an Anthropologie shopping basket with sundresses. here are a few of my favorites:

gathering breeze dress. {found here}

languid paisley maxi dress. {found here}

equinox stripe maxi dress. {found here}

back view dress. {found here}

spectrum caftan [love the bright colors!]. {found here}

shine through dress. {found here}

obsessed with the back of this dress - fluid form dress. {found here}

what are you craving on warm summer days?

xoxo

weekend recap.

2011-06-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

happy Monday, dolls! how's everyone doing?

just a little recap since I was far distracted from blog and twitter land this weekend....

watched my Giants beat {albeit, a nail-biting win} the Reds.

stayed tuned in for fireworks.

got some [much needed] sun.

picked up some lovely little zinnias for my front yard.

and don't forget my new umbrella for my patio set.

tell me about your weekend, loves!

xoxo

business in the front, party in the back.

2011-06-10T11:03:00.000-07:00

happy Friday dolls!

and no, this is not a post about the mullet. this is a post of weekend {frivolity}. the Monday beginning is all business through [Friday], which brings out the party in most. just a little taste of the gloriousness of my next few days:

smiles and hand-holds with the boy. {and maybe stealing a smooch or two}

[together] we are Giant.

moments of silent and audible {prayers} for the ultimate sacrifice.

{cheers and jumps} while watching my cousin Conner and his fellow 8-year olds swing-batta-batta-batta-swing.

basking in much-needed sunlight.

what's going big for your weekend, my loves?

xoxo

wednesday weaknesses.

2011-06-08T11:02:00.000-07:00

{dream watch.}

[deliciousness.]

beyond.

xoxo.

dinner date.

2011-06-07T09:55:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

so, I have a dinner date coming up. not just any dinner date. a dinner date with a new man. this is part of my little test so we'll see how it goes ;-) I'm not a big fan of going out {of course, unless I'm going to Wayfare Tavern or some other amazing place like that} because of my food allergies, so I prefer to stay in and cook most nights. new guy agreed that this would be fun, so now I need to pick up groceries - but I have no idea what we should make!!

[swoon.]

what's your favorite {non-fussy} meal to make with your man??

suggestions, please!!

xoxo

self-explanation.

2011-06-06T10:21:00.000-07:00

xoxo.

I have a lovely bunch of coconuts.

2011-06-01T09:24:00.000-07:00

{you're welcome.}

xoxo.

weekend Wayfare.

2011-05-31T09:32:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing after that long weekend?

I took a little time out of my day yesterday to go to the cemetary and honor the Veterans that bravely served our country. my Uncle Rusty being one of them, it's always hard going to the cemetary and seeing all of the flags, not to mention I miss my uncle more and more every day. it was also the first time I'd been to the cemetary since my grandma died - needless to say, it was an emotional time for me.

I also spent the majority of the weekend working on my yard. pulling cyclamen out of my front flower beds, killing snails in my garage {from said pulling of cyclamen}, scooping up snail goo [yes, it's as gross as it sounds], and bleaching the garage floor. I also managed to spray down the driveway and stain & seal the remainder of my interior fenceline. talk about being productive! on Saturday evening, I went into the city for dinner with a friend, and you all know I had to take crap-tastic iPhone photos of the event! dinner at Wayfare Tavern is always delicious :)

{angels on horseback} dates stuffed with almonds, wrapped in bacon, with a caper/dill salsa. beyond.

pork hash. with a sunnyside up egg. natch. {incredible.}

happy birthday to me :)

for moi?! why, I'm flattered, Mr. Florence!

have a great day loves!

xoxo

weekend happy.

2011-05-27T09:58:00.000-07:00

hi dolls!

what are your plans for this holiday weekend? while partaking in your chosen festivities, don't forget about the real reason why we celebrate - our troops and veterans! may God bless them and their families, for they have made the ultimate sacrifice.

as for my weekend plans, I'm helping my daddy plant trees {finally!} in my backyard and then I'll be here Saturday night:

new menu? {don't mind if I do.}

on Sunday, I'll be partying on a boat. the Fume Blanc in the San Francisco bay, to be exact.

the Bay, a boat, bumpin' beats, and booze to go around.

have a fun and safe weekend, my loves!

xoxo

wordless wednesday.

2011-05-25T10:41:00.001-07:00

xoxo.

mental health day.

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

hi loves! how's everyone doing today?

I took the day off work and I'm up in beautiful San Francisco with my best friend for the day! on the agenda:

hiking the Presidio.

lounging on Baker Beach {weather permitting}.

coffee and macarons at Paulette. {yum.}

maybe treating ourselves to some ice cream after dinner [time permitting].

and, of course, what would a trip to one of my favorite cities be without catching a Giants game??

have a great day dolls!

jet lag and work do not mix.

2011-05-23T09:53:00.000-07:00

good morning dolls! how's everyone doing today? I'm back to work and seriously kicking myself for not being more travel-aware. this girl has jet lag that would bring down a prize fighter!! I'm exhausted but can't sleep. hungry but can't eat. dehydrated but not thirsty. it's seriously awful. so, for today, I'll share just a few pictures from our trip to the South. I can't even begin to tell you how beautiful it was in Alabama and Tennessee. the highways/interstates/freeways {whatever you want to call them!} are lush and green and trash-free - something us Californians rarely get to see [unfortunately]. (like my hometown) there's a church on every corner and (unlike my hometown) a strip club between each bend. the juxtoposition was quite amusing!!

driving through Tennessee, on our way to Cullman, AL.

if you know anything about my history with Cracker Barrel, you know I had to take a picture with the sign!

roll Tide!!!

seriously the best meal I had the WHOLE trip. red beans and rice w/"dog scraps" {pulled pork} at the BBQ Caboose. beyond delicious. must find a recipe.....

Mr. Jack Daniel.

outside the Jack Daniel's Distillery.

'nuf said.

the new Jack Daniel's label. we received a private tour of the Processing/Bottling/Shipping plant - it was so awesome to see the whole thing!

rocking chairs everywhere!! I'm waiting for one of our company driver's to come out to California so I can have a couple rocking chairs stuffed into the back ;-)

how was everyone's week??

xoxo

see ya'll later.

2011-05-16T10:00:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! I hope everyone had a fantastic weekend!

I'm headed out tomorrow morning on a business trip so I'll see everyone next week! hopefully I'll have lots of fun pictures to share with you (since, you know, I can't be all work and no play!)....

have a great week, dolls!

xoxo

salt in the wound.

2011-05-12T10:25:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

I'd like to send out a big ~~f you~~ thank you to coco + kelly for adding to my radar of beautiful, out-of-my-price-range things I absolutey die over but cannot justify at the moment. below are just a few of my favorites from COCOCOZY. you're welcome.

cane throw {grey}.

quatrefoil throw pillow {black}.

quatrefoil sham {peacock blue}.

xoxo.

semi-worldless wednesday.

2011-05-11T09:32:00.000-07:00

xoxo.

for sale.

2011-05-10T09:20:00.000-07:00

hi dolls!

it's a sad day for me. as some of you may know, I gave up my station at the salon a couple of weeks ago. the time came that I just needed to let it go for a while. I want to work on my yard, enjoy time with my family, and focus on taking care of myself. working six days a week was leaving me drained and I just couldn't do it anymore. with Sunday being my only day off, I couldn't go out with friends on Saturday night then try to split Sunday between church, chores, and activities. it's just time to take a break.

last night, my friend Ashley came over and took pictures of all of the supplies I'll be selling on eBay.

it's bittersweet but it's nice to know that I'll have a full two-day weekend to do all of the things I've been neglecting {like unpacking the rest of my boxes from my move!!}.

a big thank you to Ashley for taking pretty pictures for my eBay sale :)

xoxo

manic monday.

2011-05-09T11:13:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how was everyone's weekend?

today, I have a manic mind. I'm desperately craving a trip to NYC and a visit to the Met to witness the glory of all things McQueen. these images are definitely not helping....

long live McQueen.

xoxo

thirsty thursday.

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

{obvy.}

{double obvy.}

keep it classy, dolls.

xoxo.

work-it-out Wednesday.

2011-05-04T10:05:00.000-07:00

enough said.

xoxo

taste the rainbow.

2011-05-03T12:51:00.000-07:00

how could anyone not love rainbow cake in a jar?!

{taste the rainbow.}

I could definitely not eat this but I'm sure I could find a way to make it so I can. would you eat rainbow cake out of a jar?

have a great day dolls!

xoxo

weekend blessings.

2011-05-02T09:35:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing on this beautiful Monday morning?

today, as Americans, we have so much to be thankful for. justice has been served and the world is rid of Osama Bin Laden. our fight is far from over but this victory is huge in our steps forward. please continue prayers of safety and swift completion for our brave soldiers who continue to fight for our country and for our freedom.

God Bless America.

and now for a little weekend recap.... Saturday morning started with Farmer's Market, where Ashley and I found the following:

bacon. on a stick. yes please!

cinnamon honey roasted almonds. delicious. full of protein and natural, unprocessed sugars. yum.

on Sunday, I picked up my grandma's ring. it fits perfectly now and is shiny and sparkly.

I'll treasure this forever.

I also picked out the trees for my backyard! once the concrete is in, these babies will be planted and shading my patio for years to come.

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend and that your Monday is just as lovely!

xoxo

not taking credit for this one.

2011-04-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

happy Friday dolls! how's everyone doing today?

I'll be honest, I did not wake up at 1AM to watch William and Catherine's wedding.... but I did record said event. I'm really overwhelmed by the pomp and circumstance of it all and couldn't possibly write a blog post about it while multi-tasking at the office. especially since daddy promoted me to boss-lady today while he's out playing in a golf tournament :) yay me!

that being said, I'm posting a link to Sophia Rossi's blog and I want everyone to read it. my BFF read this blog post {obviously not mine and I'm not going to claim that for a moment} to me last night on our way to Sacramento and I about peed my pants. I'm wishing I would have written something as witty and perfect as this but I didn't, so I'd like you all to read it. it pretty much sums up my dating/love life and I wouldn't change a thing about what she's written! that being said, read on, m'loves.

anyone have big plans for the weekend? this will be a bittersweet one for me, as my last day working at the salon is tomorrow. I'm sad but it's going to be a much needed change for me - at least for a while! more on that next week :) until then, loves, I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

xoxo

date night.

2011-04-28T09:39:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

and yes, you read the title of this post correctly - it is indeed date night! date night, you ask? but you haven't mentioned dating anyone! this, I know. and I'm sorry to disappoint you but you would be correct in your assumption that I'm not dating anyone at this time. that being said, it's still date night and I plan on taking full advantage of said night with my best friend.

{my best aka my hot.ass date.}

we're treating ourselves to our favorite Mexican food restaurant ever!!

{muy yummy}

what are you all up to this evening?

have a great day loves!

xoxo

wednesday want.

2011-04-27T08:59:00.000-07:00

xoxo.

I want to ride my bicycle.

2011-04-26T09:19:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

my friend Ashley and I were talking this morning about going on a bike ride after I get home from the gym. then I found this picture....

{night ride, anyone?}

Ashley - we must find a way to do this to our bikes. amazing.

xoxo

resourceful creativity.

2011-04-25T08:48:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how was everyone's weekend?

today, my friend Ashley sent me a link to a website that is pretty much a letterpress kit for po' folk like me. inspired by that, I found this:

{via here}

kind of obsessed. bring on the cardstock, I'm already dreaming of the possibilities....

xoxo

jury says....

2011-04-21T09:09:00.001-07:00

blonde!

xoxo.

the art of a handwritten note.

2011-04-20T09:49:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

not many people know this about me, but I collect stationary. beautiful, heavy, stationary. I love little note cards that have beautiful, whimsical, and simple designs that reflect things I love. and, here's my little secret - not many people know this because I NEVER send them out. that's right. I'm a stationary hoarder. it's awful.

lately, since my grandma's passing, after receiving so many sympathy cards and support from friends, I've taken to digging through my stationary box and finally sending out some of these beautiful note cards. I really do appreciate the long lost art of handwritten note and I'm going to do my best to keep up the habit. I've also been looking into more and more stationary websites, lusting over the gorgeous letterpress. here are just a few of my favorites:

coral reef everyday note {found here}

peyton notecard {found here}

simple flourish {found here}

summer leaves {found here}

do you love stationary? where is your favorite place to purchase fine stationary?

have a great day, loves!

xoxo

taste of summer.

2011-04-19T09:13:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

this past weekend, I had a little Sunday Funday BBQ at my house with a few of my friends. I used my charcoal (gasp!) BBQ for the first time and grilled up a giant tri-tip and some delish veggies, as well as some lovely little shrimp. my friend Natalie brought a GIANT fruit salad and even though there were seven of us shoving food into our faces, there was so much fruit left!! so, needless to say, the fruit monster over here has been eating fruit morning, noon, and night.... and I love it!! it makes me feel like summer is so close..... although these clouds and this damn ninja rain is ruining my summer dreaming.

yummy in my tummy.

and I'm STILL looking for your input! having my hair done tomorrow and I'm beyond indecisive.

blonde?

or brunette?

have a great day loves!

xoxo

hair help. now. please. thank you.

2011-04-18T12:17:00.000-07:00

whaaaaaaat?! two in a day?! for realsies??!

ok, so I just realized I'm having my hair done on Wednesday and I seriously can't make up my mind as to what I want.

do I go more blonde, a la Vegas Jessica...

or do I go back to brunette, a la 2005 Jessica?? (oh, hey KK!)

please help. I'm stumped.

just another music Monday.

2011-04-18T11:23:00.000-07:00

hi dolls!

first of all, I want to thank everyone who has sent prayers and sympathies my way after my grandma's passing. it was a very difficult week for my family and all of the love and support we received were absolutely overwhelming. so, thank you all - I really appreciate it.

that being said, it's back to the grind and I'm in desperate need of some new music to keep me motivated. my schedule has been super off and I need to get back into my routine! so far, this is what is on my must-have list:

the newest collaboration between Eminem and Dr. Dre. obsessed.

you all know I love me some Gaga. Judas is on my must-have list.

E.T. has been my latest obsession. I freak.out. every time I hear it!

Mumford & Sons give me a little lift.

Trey Songz. enough said.

what's on your music radar lately? save me the Britney Spears. I'm sorry, I just can't love her like everyone else.

have a great day, loves!

xoxo

these times are hard, they're making us crazy.

2011-04-13T10:36:00.000-07:00

hi dolls.

I'm taking another little break - just until next week. starting tonight I have hair to do, viewing tomorrow, and my grandma's funeral on Friday. I'm overwhelmed by emotion and scatterbrained tendancies and I really have to focus on getting through my work at the office and taking care of my family.

thank you for sticking with me. I'm hoping that after next week things will be slightly back to normal!

love you all.

xoxo

music city.

2011-04-12T10:01:00.000-07:00

hi dolls!

I'm headed to Nashville in a month - what to do while I'm there?

if you've been, I want to know all of the places to shop, eat, and play :)

xoxo

in loving memory.

2011-04-11T10:12:00.000-07:00

"Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die...." - John 11: 25-26.

today I'm remembering that God has a plan for all of us and that our mortal bodies are just temporary. I'm trying to remember that my grandma is now walking on the two legs that failed her in the last few years of her life, remembering everyone by their first name, and forcing cookies and coffee down the throats of everyone who sits at her table :)

I love you grandma.

xoxo

thirsty thursdays.

2011-04-07T09:11:00.000-07:00

happy thursday dolls!

this is my guilty pleasure. I try not to consume it very often [because diet or not, soda is bad for you] but when I do, I savor every sip.

{fizz fizz fizz, oh what a relief it is....}

ya, I know that's not how the song goes, but you get the idea.

what's your guilty pleasure when it comes to beverages?

xoxo

a goat cheese after my own heart.

2011-04-06T09:11:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

yesterday, my mom came by to check out my new area rug and I had a fruit and cheese tray out to go with the wine we were drinking, seeing as I'm trying to be a better hostess and all of that. I had picked up a few different cheeses at Whole Foods when I was in the city on Sunday and my mom and I pretty much died over the truffle-laced goat cheese the cheese man picked out for me. not to mention, I had a goat brie and some other delicious, not as soft but equally delicious cheese that I couldn't remember the name of if I tried. I guess I should have been a little more prepared for this post with the names of these lovelies but you know me, not exactly the face of preparedness!

[look at all of that cheesy goodness.]

what are your favorite cheeses? do you like a specific kind {goat, sheep, cow, or a mix?} or do you love them all the same?

have a great day loves!

xoxo

it's a jungle in here.

2011-04-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

if you follow me on Twitter, you know that my new area rug was delivered yesterday and my daddy came by and helped me unpack and lay it down. here are some before & after pictures for you :)

should have closed my shutters a little bit but you get the idea.

bare floors = cold feet.

my coffee table blends in with the floors so it kind of disappears. I need a new one anyway....

yay!! do you love? I love.

look! a coffee table lol

see what I mean about needing a new coffee table? this one is just too small.

I'm {so} happy with the colors - everything is coordinating nicely. [now for that glass table....] I'm thinking yellow lacquer? or maybe a lime green to match the adorbs Kate Spade bud vase Danielle gave me. opinions?

so friends, what do you think? I'm extremely happy with my choice!

have a great day!

xoxo

she's back.

2011-04-04T11:34:00.000-07:00

hey dolls! I'm back in business and ready to roll. I'll be taking it easy this week but here's a preview of what I've got going for the week....

{afternoon rides on the beach cruiser}

[alternating between spin and gym, of course]

hanging out with my SF Giants on Saturday night for some best friend time.

back to the city on Sunday for some QT with the other BFF. Baker Beach and Presidio visits.

getting our walk on across the Golden Gate.

we can never hit up SF without going to Paulette's on Hayes. {deliciousness}.

what does everyone have planned for the week?

I've missed you all!

xoxo

my apologies.

2011-03-28T09:34:00.000-07:00

hi dolls.

I just wanted to apologize for lack of posting and abundance of deep/cryptic writings. we've been dealing with a lot of death lately and it's absolutely heartwrenching. on top of that, the dramatic musings of people whom I used to call {"friend"} have been overtaking the airwaves. at this point, everything is weighing so heavily on my shoulders and I've been needing to lean on those who love and care without expectation.

please forgive me - I promise to be back to my old self very, very soon.

until then....

xoxo

pray.

2011-03-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

today, I'm {praying}.

praying for {the world}.
praying for {the dying}.
praying for {the sick}.
praying for {God's newest angels}.
praying for {those who need [love] & [light]}.
praying for {generosity}.
praying for {peace}.
praying for {acceptance}.
praying for {humility}.
praying for {faith}.

xoxo

do it for the troops.

2011-03-23T09:39:00.000-07:00

hello loves! today, I'm writing about something very important to me, and, I'll be honest, I've stolen much of the content of this post from someone else [don't worry, I asked permission first!]. so, without further ado, please read on....

yesterday, I received a letter in the mail from my brother-from-another-mother Chris, informing me that he'll be competing in a Triathlon! the Wildflower Triathlon at Lake San Antonio is an event that has become very close to his heart, celebrating overcoming challenges and raising a great deal of money for a number of wonderful causes. first of all - kudos to you, Chris, for taking on this daunting challenge! second, he's paid for all of the fees himself, and therefore isn't required to do any of the fundraising that usually goes along with this kind of competition. he and his co-workers have formed a team called the NorCal TriGeeks and Chris will be competing in the Olympic Course of the Wildflower Triathlon, which consists of swimming 1 mile, biking 25 miles, and running 6 miles! I know you'll make everyone proud, Chris!

since Chris has paid all of his fees and the TriGeeks have no specific charity they sponsor, Chris has decided that he would like to raise money for a cause that's close to his {and my own} heart. Chris was recently married to a wonderful, beautiful woman [hi Olivia!] and also inherited a sister and brother-in-law, who is currently serving in Afghanistan. Olivia's sister and her husband Ryan have made enormous sacrifices as Ryan performs his duty to his country overseas, and Chris would like to pay tribute to their courage as he trains for this Triathlon. therefore, Chris has decided to raise money for a charity which a co-worker of his founded with her son, who has also served in the military. ACTS (American Canyon Troop Support) is an organization whose sole purpose is sending care packages and letters to troops serving overseas. through donated funds, they provide hope and a kind word to those who are making this tremendous sacrifice for our country and our freedom.

so, my blogging friends, on behalf of Chris, I'd like to ask for your support! in this time of turmoil, our soldiers need your love and support more than ever. any donation amount would really help in bringing up the spirits of the brave men and women that fight for our everyday freedoms. if you can't donate but still want to contribute, you're encouraged to write a letter to a soldier and ACTS can send it in one of their care packages. all donation checks can be made out to ACTS.

thank you so much for taking the time to read this word-heavy post today but I had to do it! tears came to my eyes while reading Chris's letter and I'm beyond proud of him and what he's doing. if you'd like to donate money or send a letter to a soldier, please send me an email (jessica.beautifuldirtyrich@gmail.com) and I'll reply with a P.O. Box for you to send checks. just so you know, the checks will be sent directly to me and I'll be forwarding them to ACTS.

I encourage you to do anything you can for this charity and for our troops. these men and women are making the ultimate sacrifice to ensure that we here in the USA can live freely - something that, lately, we've been seeing a lot of countries and nations are living without.

xoxo

sunny days are near.

2011-03-21T09:21:00.000-07:00

this stormy weather has me down and uninspired.

I'll be back when I'm feeling more creative.

xoxo

rawr.

2011-03-18T09:13:00.000-07:00

{tell this weekend who's boss.}

xoxo

baa baa black sheep.

2011-03-16T11:03:00.000-07:00

have you any yogurt??

as most of you know, I'm allergic to many things, {dairy being one of them}. I like to think I've adapted quite well but there comes a time when a girl wants a seriously creamy, dreamy cup of yogurt. soy and coconut milk yogurts just aren't going to cut it when this kind of craving comes around. my mother turned me on to Bellwether Farms sheep's milk yogurt and I've never looked back. although, I do curse her at times for making me fall in love with a yogurt that costs almost $3 a cup but, at the end of the day, it's totally worth it.

[no la-la-la-lambs were harmed in the process of this deliciousness.]

here's a few little facts I found on their website!

•Made from 100% pure sheep milk

•Made from milk from healthy, pastured animals and active cultures L.bulfarieus, S. themophilus, L. acidophilus, and Bifidus – all very good for the body’s proper functioning.

•Is an excellent source of B vitamins, including B12, as well as calcium and riboflavin.

come on, you know you want to try it!! {I've found an abundant supply at Whole Foods.}

have a great day, loves!

xoxo

and God will send his angels.

2011-03-15T10:09:00.000-07:00

hello dolls!

with all of the tragedies in the world today, I've been conjuring images of angels. little saints that keep us safe, watch us while we sleep, and give us comfort when we need it. I've been praying for Japan, countries in turmoil, for leaders who need a swift kick in the head to knock them sense into them {Lybia, I'm talking to you}. not to mention, I'm sending off photos to my aunt to paint a six foot angel for my house. here's just a few I find inspirational [and, if nothing else, absolutely adorable] at the moment.

does anyone else thing of Martina McBride's A Broken Wing when looking at this?

{majestic}

I like to think of this one as a Daphne Guinness angel.

[saintly.]

I'd like to imagine this would be waiting for me in the forrest instead of a wild animal :)

looking as if she's grown from the ground {like she belongs here}.

cherub.

I wouldn't mind being this angel....

I couldn't leave this little baby out. totes adorbs.

have a blessed day, loves.

xoxo

I speak the truth.

2011-03-14T09:18:00.000-07:00

if you want an interesting read, check out Friday's post.

other than that, this is all I have to say:

happy Monday, loves.

xoxo

wine and dine me.

2011-03-11T09:02:00.000-08:00

happy Friday dolls!

last night, I ate here:

with this girl:

I ate this:

hell yes to the wayfare burger [le grande].

{by the time I was done, it looked like this}

perfectly pink and yes, I took the leftovers home. although I'm not quite sure how I'm going to go about reheating the whole ordeal. I'm thinking the broiler is my best option....

the BFF ate this:

bleu cheese wedge. [sans bacon] for my vegetarian BFF.

and she can't go anywhere without getting the macaroni & cheese!

we drank this:

[and maaaaybe a martini {for her} and a tequila shot. or three. {for me}] our bartender, Cassidy [totally adorbs, BTW], gave me samples of some delicious tequilas {we have a date at Tommy's very, very soon!}, some sort of muddled cucumber margarita (stupid good - ask him for it when you go!), and made Ash a sour cherry lemondrop martini. holy deliciousness.

then, we went here:

holy cow! it's a spotted cow....

I love my best friend more than words can say and I'm so glad we got to spend some quality time together!! our meal was absolutely delicious, the service was impeccable, and as much as we both wanted dessert, we were too full!! I danced off my dinner {by myself, since we were the only ones in the bar} at The Holy Cow and had a hilarious ride home! all in all, a successful best friend night!

tomorrow, I'm headed to wine country {duh} to go barrel tasting with my parents!

have a good weekend, loves!

xoxo

spandex and glitter set my heart a-flutter.

2011-03-10T09:16:00.000-08:00

hi dolls!

how's everyone doing today?

last night, I attended the One Night of Queen tribute concert and it was amaaaaaaaaazing!! {like there was a doubt in my mind!!} my mom and one of her friends and I hit up Canal Street Grille in town and had a lovely Ash Wednesday meal of sweet chili prawns.... delish! oh, and back to that concert.... AMAZE-BALLS!!!!! seriously, if you close your eyes, you can almost see Freddie Mercury [whom I just happen to love. for realsies.] Gary Mullen came out in a white spandex onesie, complete with lightning bolt aplique and racerback!! {talk about setting my heart a-flutter!!} this was seriously one of the greatest classic rock cover concerts I've ever been to! watch this video and you'll see what I mean!! (it's not from last night but I found it on youtube.)

and, as if this week couldn't get any better, tonight, I'm hitting up San Francisco with the [best] and heading over to Tyler Florence's new baby, Wayfare Tavern. I've wanted to go since it opened and after reading Mayra's review, I was convinced. it had to happen sooner than later, so here it is! I'm sooooooooo looking forward to it and can't wait to let you know how wonderful it is!!

look! stripes! {a restaurant after my own heart.}

why, hello gorgeous.

have a great day, loves!

xoxo

the show must go on.

2011-03-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

hello dolls!

how's everyone doing today?

I don't know how many of you know this but I'm a big fan of Queen. no, not this queen....

[sorry] your Highness.

this Queen:

{all you hear is radio gaga....}

tonight, I'm headed out to the Gallo Center for the Performing Arts with my lovely mama to bear witness to a Queen tribute band!! [you bet your sequined onesie I'm excited!!] any Freddie Mercury that crosses my path is a welcome one. I'm praying for picture oportunities....

is it just me or is it hot.in.here?!

have a great day, loves!

xoxo

if you know what's good for you, you'll fear the beard.

2011-03-08T08:59:00.000-08:00

hi dolls! how's everyone doing today?

busy bee over here has been a hot mess of working out, cooking, cleaning, and working all wrapped up into one big package! after a weekend filled with hair appointments {both my own and me doin' up some hurrr.... [both old and new clients! yay for referrals!]}, runs with the dogs, birthday parties, and trips to the airport, I was a tired girl by Sunday night. starting my Monday off with a 430am workout and ending it with a nice run after work, you bet your ass I'm {ex.haust.ed.}

I may be exhausted but I'm a happy, happy girl. this week is bringing lots and lots of lovely gifts and as they come along, you know I'll be sharing!

today's gift? season tickets to every single home game my boys play!!

hell.to.the.yes.

I received an email saying my lovely tickets are being printed and will be sent in 7-10 business days. color me orange because I am f-ing stoked!!!!

and, just because I'm in a happy mood, I'll give you a few little clues as to the rest of the exciting happenings in my week....

[a little q.t. in my favorite city.]

{some much needed BFF time.}

you know I can't go a weekend without some vino.

keeping my fingers crossed for some sushi-grubbing with these beautiful ladies.

what made your day exciting today??

have a good one, loves!

xoxo

just a ride.

2011-03-07T09:56:00.000-08:00

happy Monday dolls!

I had a half busy/half sleepy weekend and I'm glad I took all of the available opportunities to sleep because this week is going to be one hell of a crazy ride!!

more on that later.

for now, I'm back to work.

have a fabulous day, loves!

xoxo

sunny days ahead.

2011-03-04T08:00:00.000-08:00

happy Friday dolls!

today, I'm conjuring images of all things {blissfully} sunny. this [rainy, cloudy interior] needs to dissolve into a smoldering, sunshine-y burst of yum. I'm fearing cabin fever may strike if I'm unable to crack open my windows and let a fresh spring breeze cleanse the new-house-smell out of casa de beautiful.dirty.rich. there comes a time when 'new' does not convey comfort but the stark reality of emptiness. if I could caress my house in sunshine, I would gladly do so.

|soak in the sun.|

[drink it in.]

{bubbles bubbles everywhere and not a drop to drink.}

legs abound and arms aplenty. sunshine must hit my limbs.

{basking} like a sea otter would make my life complete.

I may be [allergic] to grass but my body craves the green, squidgy blanket.

trips to the beach, |Sublime| screaming out my sunroof down Hwy 17.

snuggles with my animals outside on the patio are pretty much the best. thing. ever.

giggles with my girlfriends are the ultimate healer.

don't forget to [wrap your hair] and keep it from the sun!

{twirls in the sunshine.}

until we meet again, my dears.

xoxo

birthday blessings.

2011-03-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

hello dolls!

today, I want to wish two very special people a very happy birthday!

first, to my very dear friend Jaclyn, Mrs. Domesticity herself!

J - I love you more than words can say. I hope you have an extra fabulous birthday and that all of your wishes and dreams come true. [not just today, but every day.]

secondly, I'm wishing a very happy birthday to my mommy!

she's my best friend and the light of my life, and I'm going to take her out to dinner and spoil her as much as humanly possible {since she does that to me every single day}. I love her so much it hurts and I'm so blessed to have her as my mom.

happy birthday to two of the most important women in my life.

xoxo

hollywood trainwreck.

2011-03-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

hello dolls! how's everyone doing today?

I'll be honest: I'm concerned. hollywood has always been a hot mess of superstars. but really, what's going on with people these days?

{starletts in trouble.}

let's talk about delusional tangents for a moment, please.

we all saw it coming. ~~at least it wasn't as bad as it could have been~~.

really?! get a grip. {you're a sickening mess}, Galliano.

I can't even handle everything that's going on in the world that is hollywood. it's bad enough that children growing up in this world have to deal with worldy problems such as the conflicts in Egypt and Libya. now the people who [try/want/attempt] to make our fantasies reality by acting, singing, or designing the latest in haute couture are just as disgusting as political leaders who try to rule in a fascist/communist manner. it's heartbreaking.

sorry to get political on everyone today, it just hurts my heart to see all of this {self destruction} going on when our world needs so much love and fixing. I may be {quite} set in my political stances but there comes a point when, as the beatles most charmingly said, [all you need is love].

xoxo

paging dr. greenthumb.

2011-03-01T10:03:00.000-08:00

hello loves!

how's everyone doing today?

although I'm still [slightly] heavily medicated with all sorts of flu remedies, I'm daydreaming of beautiful gardens, plants, and herbs for my lovely little abode. my house faces north and I get a lovely showering of sun through my back yard all day long. what would you recommend? do I have any green thumb lovelies out there?

{pretty purples with yellow eyes to greet me in the afternoon sun.}

lovely herbs to snip and add |scrumptous| flavors to my meals.

gorgeous bulbs of hydrangea to add bulbous life to my vases.

delicate whimsey of Japanese maples to shade my yard from the eyes of children.

shrubs to groom and flowering bushes to add dimension.

{my favorite flower will be a large part of my garden.}

english tea roses in tree form.

[one can never have too many roses.]

have a lovely day, dolls.

xoxo

I have a fever.

2011-02-28T12:47:00.000-08:00

and it's not related to the Bieber....

xoxo

sky high and fancy free.

2011-02-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

hello dolls! happy Friday! how's everyone doing? what do you all have planned for the weekend?

I've got a busy one this weekend.... I'll be participating in the shenanigans we over here like to call the Almond Blossom Festival {pronounced aaaaa-mond. you don't call salmon [saul-mon] do you?!} and I couldn't be more excited!

I see and smell these as soon as I walk out of my door. delicious.

our morning starts off with a 5K race, followed by a shower and total hydration!

{we try to take it seriously but it usually ends up looking like something along these lines}

I have two of my little cousins (Ethan and Claire, respectively) participating in the Diaper Derby [just like it sounds - a race for those still in diapers. it's glorious.] and from there we'll be going to the parade.

[oh ya. my cousins are going to dominate. race those diapers, kids. race those diapers.]

after the parade it's off to the Legion Hall for drinks and then we're trucking it back to my house to park and head over to the carnival!

count me out of the rides. I'll have had far too much to drink by then. def count me in on the cheez-fest of cheap crap I don't need, though!

oh! and don't forget the Quarterback Club dance that starts at 9. it's like a high school dance for grown ups. with booze that you don't have to sneak in. pure heaven.

dance your ass off, kids. it's the one night of the year [minus your birthday and new year's. duh.] that you get to act like a complete idiot, knowing that everyone around you is in the exact. same. place.

{does this sound like enough activity for one day? Sunday will definitely be my day of rest....}

whilst I'm dreaming my Sunday away, I'll be dreaming of these beauties (I figured I haven't done a shoe obsession post in a while. might as well get in where I fit it....). heels to the skies, ladies.

go big or go home. be at the top of your game.

Pristine Black Multi Buckle Platform Sandals.

you can find them {here.}

have a good weekend, loves!

xoxo

mondrian wishes, soho dreams.

2011-02-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

hello dolls! how's everyone doing? {I don't know why I ask since, apparently, I'm talking to myself....}

on Tuesday, I received my daily Jetsetter email and died when I saw an offer for the brand spankin' new Mondrian Hotel in Soho. [one stay here and I can leave this earth a happy girl.]

check out the pictures I found on the sale page. {do you die like I die?}

{guest room gorgeousness.}

oh ya. I'd shower buck. nekkid. in this shower and not be embarrassed. know why? cause I'm at the Mondrian, bitch.

if I weren't in NYC, I'd never leave this bed.

{suite} jesus.... yes please.

[beyond.]

I'm definitely looking forward to spending time ~~with my own personal Mr. Big~~ at the Mondrian Soho. eating at Macao (or maybe just drinking.... check out their extensive cocktail menu) & Imperial No. Nine and late night visits to Blue Ribbon would make me one [happy camper]. anyone else care to join in the frivolity? {mind you, this gem doesn't open until March 1, so you'll have to wait a few days, dolls}

xoxo

minimalist dreams.

2011-02-23T09:54:00.000-08:00

(ummmmm....... hello? anyone out there? no? ok. I'll just keep talking to myself then....)

how's everyone doing today?

now that I'm a homeowner, I'm obsessed with home design websites. I'll also be the first one to tell you that I break into tears and gutteral sobs whilst looking at said websites because it leaves me in an overwhelmed, hopeless state. I don't know what to do with myself. there's so much information, so many beautiful homes. images displaying everything I desire, homes that embody each and every detail I love.

I discovered Houzz and my world will never be the same. my weekely update email came and I wandered across the "Master of Modern Minimalist" article. let's just say I {died} and went to heaven. there are no words to explain how much I love everything about these photographs.

bedroom design by atlanta interior designer Habachy Designs

spaces design by atlanta interior designer Habachy Designs

bathroom design by atlanta interior designer Habachy Designs

check them all out here. you will absolutely not be disappointed.

xoxo