Nice Intentions

So Perfect

2009-11-13T13:13:00.000-08:00

My fave wedding blog Style Me Pretty just posted gorgeous pictures of a beautiful destination wedding. Check out the pics on their site. It's perfect!

This Looks Like Fun

2009-11-11T15:30:00.000-08:00

Here's the preview for a Tina Fey / Steve Carrel movie that is hitting theatres soon. It looks like The Hangover slapped with a little suburbia!

On a lighter note

2009-11-10T17:41:00.000-08:00

I love this outfit! The jacket is super cute but I absolutely adore the tights! What a fun way to wear plaid!

Puppy Envy

2009-11-06T12:16:00.000-08:00

Everytime I see a picture of Ashley Tisdale with her little pup Maui I experience a serious case of puppy envy and immediately cal boyfriend and express my deep desire for us to own a little puppy that will never get big. I must admit I have been wearing him down and now his response is let's talk after your done coaching this basketball season. Sounds good to me!

image: People Pets

Individual Apple Pies

2009-11-04T14:00:00.000-08:00

Boyfriend is a huge apple pan fan. He's really cute when he makes it because he never uses a recipe and his pies always have a new look and taste to them. Even though they are different they are still delish. Anyways, I found these great pocket pie molds that are for sale at Williams-Sonoma. This is such a great idea and a great way to make individual sized pies on the go. I think I may try it out this weekend and make somes pies boyfriend can take to work with him!

image: Williams-Sonoma

Tea Anyone?

2009-11-04T13:26:00.000-08:00

Last week my friend Taylor and I went to the Trellis Restaurant in Kirkland for lunch. This restaurant is located just down the street from my job and I have been excited to test it out for quite some time. I'm usually not a tea drinker. To be honest I'm kind of a water girl but I wasn't feeling too well and when the waitress offered their tea service I decided to give it a shot. I had a white Orchid tea that had hints of peaches. It smelled and tasted delish. Since that day I've been thinking of how much fun it would be to go to High Tea.

I've been to the Fairmont Olympic Hotel's Georgia Tea with my mom quite a few times and it is always a nice time. I remember when I was younger I going to the Four Season's High Tea with my friend Ashley and her mom. It always was really fun and felt special especially during Christmas time.

Hmm.... maybe I'll start planning a tea party!

images: Bing Images

Pumpkin Bonfire

2009-10-28T14:07:00.000-07:00

I found these great pics in Better Homes and Garden and absolutely wish I could copy this idea! This has been such a mild and beautiful fall. I've really enjoyed being outside and next year I would definitely love to host a pumpkin bonfire complete with yummy treats and fun outdoor games!

images: Better Homes and Garden

Insanely Creative Bathtub

2009-10-27T12:22:00.000-07:00

This giant shoe is actually a bathtub designed by Massimiliano Della Monaca. They can be custom designed and are covered with precious glass. The purchase price begins around $17,000. This would be perfect for an eccentric and feminin bathroom.

image: Massimiliano Della Monaca

Teacup Cupcakes

2009-10-26T10:14:00.000-07:00

I ran accross these super cute tea cup cupcakes on the TomKat Studio blog. I think I'm going to keep these in mind for my Birthday Brunch!

Lollipop Cookies!

2009-10-26T10:10:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I made some great lollipop cookies that were very similar to the ones picture above. The only difference is each cookie had its own lollipop stick that was baked in. I still have to play around a little bit with the coloring but they're definitely an easy and fun cookie!

image: Bing

Reusable Produce Bags

2009-10-24T21:37:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, I always feel guilty about using the plastic produce bags and this is a great solution! I found these profiled on a great blog. I can't wait to try them out!

Beautiful Dalias!

2009-10-23T09:32:00.000-07:00

These dalias are from my parents backyard and were giving to me last night. The picture was taken on my sidekick and really does not do justice to the color and fullness of the flowers. My mom is like the plant whisperer. She finds plants that have been neglected and nurses them back to life. It's amazing how many flowers are still in bloom in her backyard! You would never guess it's almost November.

Recycled Drawers to Book Case

2009-10-22T16:22:00.000-07:00

How innovative is this? One of my favorite blogs Pepper Design posted this fabulous idea from one of their readers. She found discarded drawers on freecycle and transformed them into this fabulous modular bookcase. I love the color and pattern she chose. This just shows what a can of paint and a weekend can create.

Here is the supply list and instructions courtesly of Pepper Design:

Supplies

2 coordinating paint colors
primer
decorative or wrapping paper (I would probably use shelving paper)
découpage glue
drywall screws
wood filler
paintbrush
drop cloth
scissors or craft knife, straight edge, and cutting mat
tape measure or yardstick
brayer (optional)
drill
sandpaper

Fill the drawer-pull holes with wood filler. Let dry. Sand the rough edges and vacuum off the dust, then paint one coat of primer.
Paint the outer sides one color. I used Ralph Lauren Aged Mint (IB25). When dry, paint the inner sides the other color. I used Infinity Edge of Wedgewood (no longer available). To achieve a clean edge where the two paint colors meet, pull your paintbrush toward the edge. No taping necessary. Let the paint dry for several hours.
Measure and cut the decorative paper to fit in the bottom of each drawer. Insert the paper to make sure it fits. Trim as necessary.
Paint a layer of glue onto the wood, then place the paper on top. I found it easier if I poured a thin line of glue onto the surface, then spread it with my paintbrush. Flatten the paper with a brayer or your hands. Smooth out the air bubbles before the glue sets. Let dry. Then spread another layer of glue over the top of the paper. Wipe off excess glue on the sides before it dries. Let dry.
Affix each drawer to the wall with a drywall screw. Pre-drill into studs or use a drywall anchor or molly bolt.

And now you have a refashioned modular bookcase!

Thankful Thursdays

2009-10-22T11:21:00.000-07:00

I would like to say how thankful I am for the fabulous fall weather we are having. The leaves and trees have been so beautiful and the weather has been so lovely and brisk that it has allowed Boyfriend and I to explore our West Seattle neighborhood. We've really been enjoying runs and walks on Alki and walking through the classic West Seattle neighborhoods looking at beautiful homes. This has been a beautiful fall and I am so grateful for it!

image: Bing
Boyfriend and I after the alki 5k

Image: West Seattle Blog

Blog Inspiration

2009-10-22T10:20:00.000-07:00

A few of my blogger friends have been inspiring me have a little more fun with my blog. My friend Miss Carol at Every Day Delights has such a cute blog and has introduced me to other fabulous blogs. She's like the Queen Bee of blogs and I'm just waiting for the day she becomes a Blog of Note.

I also have two new favorite blogs that I was introduced to from Miss Carol. The first one belongs to my friend Brynn. She's super stylish and chatty and just made her blog debut at the Simple, Sweet, and Silly Sophisticate. The other blog I've started reading is called the Seattle Smith's and it's about a couple from Dallas who adventerously moved to Seattle. It's a fun read and I reccommend it.

In an attempt to start having more fun with my blog I'm taking the bloggers thirty day challenge and I'm going to attempt one post everyday. To help with inspiration I'm going to do a few themes. In the spirit of Whishful Wednesdays I'm going to post Twitter Tuesdays where I post my favorite tweets from the week. This week my fave tweet is from John Mayer who said, "Why are we calling him Balloon Boy if he wasn't in the balloon at all? Isn't he just Attic Boy?"

Another theme is going to be Thankful Thursdays. I know that's cliche but I've been blessed with a lot of wonderful people and experiences and I need to spend more time being thankful and appreciative. If anyone has some tips on how I can improve my blog please let me know!

Thanks!

Justified Hypocrisy

2009-10-21T14:15:00.000-07:00

I recently saw a Facebook post from someone I know that read: "Show your respect for your married friends and family and REJECT R71. Marriage is between a man and a woman ONLY!"

For some reason I had a really strong reaction to this statement. I was equally offended and angry at the same time and I really wished Facebook would come up with a dislike option. However, the first thought that came to mind was, "I have no tolerance for this type of intolerance." Is that not the most hypocritical statement ever made?

I strongly believe in human rights. I believe Gay rights will be the civil rights issue that helps define my generation. I don't understand why it is so divisive and I don't understand why people don't support civil rights for homosexuals. It's crazy and archaic and I don't think the world will be negatively impacted if we provide equal rights to everyone regardless of their race, religion, creed, gender, or sexual orientation.

Anyways, back to the comment: I think the reason I reacted so strongly to what was said had less to do with the author and I having differing opinions and more to do with the manipulative wording of the statements. "Show your respect for your married friends and family and REJECT R71. Marriage is between a man and a woman ONLY!" Could you find a more misleading argument? It's one thing to say, I believe marriage should be between a man and a woman. So I'm voting no to Referrendum 71. To that I would say, "Sounds good. We'll agree to disagree." However to say that it is disrespectful to married people is deplorable.

Beautiful Story

2009-10-19T15:18:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine directed me to this story recently published in the New York Times. It left my eyes a little wattery at work:-)

Compromise... the win/win or the lose/lose

2009-10-13T14:53:00.000-07:00

Like most normal and rational people I believe in compromise. It's a key societal value and it's truly impossible to imagine a world without compromise. Commerce wouldn't work, relationships would be impossible, and families would not exist. As todlers were taught the lessons of sharing and it later becomes the platform for comprimise. With that being said I believe in the power of mutual understanding and accepting that conflicts are never one sided. Parties are always going to share responsibility in a dispute. They may not share equal responsibility but it will never be 100% one parties fault with 0% of the responsibility landing on the other party, excluding random crimes.

On Tuesday I went to court. It was small claims court and I was suing my former landlord. Without getting too deep into details she acted super sketch to avoid a move out inspection and then without communicating with me at all said I owed an exorbitant amount of money in damages. I questioned this and she sent me to collections. There was no communication or response until a lovely woman (sarcasm) called me from a super low budget sketch collection agency.

I quickly found out that sending someone to collections is a total bully move. It doesn't matter if the debt is valid or is being disputed once you're in collections the option are to pay within 30 days so it is not reported on your credit score or refuse to pay and take a heavy hit to your credit score and continue to be harrassed by the collection agents until you actually do pay. Either way you're totally bullied into paying. It's awful.

So I sued her for the amount I was unjustly forced into paying. It was a really interestin experience. The judge was a spitfire named Judge Judy and she forced all the litigants to leave the court room and discuss settlements. I hate direct confrontation and I was confronted by the owner and her property manager. Initially they did not want to discuss a settlement and tried to convince me that I had no case. They barely let me speak and dismissed everything I had to say. However, after seeing how prepared I was and the documentation I had they started to discuss settlement. I stated I would be willing to split the difference. At the time it felt fair and I felt like I was being the bigger person.

They accepted the agreement and we moved into mediation. Boyfriend joined me in the mediation room and I was really glad he was there. It was difficult for him because the owner had made some hideously untrue accusations directed toward him. During the mediation they were very disrespectful and it was difficult not to take some of what was said personally. I so badly wanted speak my mind and stand up for myself. It would not have been the appropriate time to do so but I think I would have felt better.

At the end of this experience I felt very conflicted. I didn't feel good or bad about the sitution. I value comprimise but I feel like I comprimised my values...

image: Bing Images

Falling in Love with West Seattle

2009-10-12T15:10:00.000-07:00

When boyfriend and I first moved to West Seattle I was excited to move into our own home. I thought West Seattle was a nice area but to be honest it was really fourth or fifth on my list of desired neighborhoods. I viewed it as a good spot for us to live for a few years while we're starting out until we can afford to move to the Eastside or buy a home in the Queene Anne Area, but I actually have been pleasantly surprised by how much I love West Seattle.

Over the weekend I was on a mission to find a new coffee house to study in. I ended up trying out a few different locations and came across a great spot called C&P Coffee Company. It's super cute with really friendly down to earth staff. They also big tables where I can lay out all of my books which is a big plus!

I've been spending a lot of time walking and jogging. Most of the time I've been on Alki and I love it. It's so beautiful and it reminds me of the Kirkland waterfront which I loved. This last weekend I walked about 10 miles over the course of two days and found an undiscovered area of West Seattle. It's right where Beach Drive and Alki Point meet. There's beachy waterfront with gorgeous views and beautiful homes. While I was exploring my new neighborhood I can safely say I totally fell in love with West Seattle. It may not have been love at first sight but I'm very glad things worked out the way they did!

Boyfriend and I even found our "Lottery" house. That's the house we would buy if we won the lottery. It was super cute with gorgeous views. I heart West Seattle:-)

Read This!

2009-09-29T15:10:00.000-07:00

Last night I finished a wonderful book called Eat, Pray, Love. It's a beautiful memoir written by a woman named Elizabeth Gilbert. I really enjoyed her perspective on life and her journey through life. I found a sense of calm and peace with my own life after I was finished. I really reccommend it to any and everyone!

Growing Up...

2009-09-23T14:14:00.000-07:00

For my 25th birthday my parents took me out to dinner. During the conversation My mom said that she asked her mother (my grandmother) what the best year of her life was. Her mom replied the year she was 25 years old. I don't remember the reasons she gave for it being the best year of her life but it was an age that brought back found memories.

My mom then went on to tell me that 25 was her favorite year as well. She said it was before my parents had kids and they were still a young couple starting out. They vacationed together in Hawaii for the first time and stayed at a swanky resort. Hearing this caused me to wonder what the next year had in store for me. I dreamed up exciting possibilities and new experiences. I imagined adventures with new people to new places. I looked forward to the possibilities in the year to come.

I've always had a difficult time with birthdays. With the exception of a few milestone birthdays, namely 16 and 21, I have never looked forward to turning another year older. My earliest memory of this was when I was 8 years old and planning my 9th birthday. I'm sure I was excited for the party and the cake and gifts but I really dreaded turning nine years old. I felt like nine was a little too mature. At eight years old I felt like a kid and I loved the "cuteness" of being a kid. Turning 9 years old was like the exit of being a "kid" and the entrance to young adolescence and I didn't like that.

Each year had it's own set of problems, mainly new responsibilities and consequences that I never had any desire to accept or acknowledge. I've always craved freedom. When I look back on the mistakes I've made, most of them stem from this strong desire I have to be void of consequences and responsibilities. It's the nature of some individuals to be driven to achieve, others have tendencies to be sensible and balanced. Other people are content with their lives. I have always craved freedom.

The feeling of freedom is a little bit different than being a "free spirit." I remember moments of this feeling and I can only describe it the way addicts describe using heroin for the first time. Freedom has always been the drug I've craved. I remember as a young soccer player dribbling past defenders on an open field, delivering the ball to the back of the net and feeling free. I distinctly remember the first movie I went to unaccompanied by an adult. I went with my friend Claire Comfort and we saw The Net. That taste of freedom was so exciting. I also found it in roller coasters, heights, fast cars, college schedules when class was "optional."

I remember my first solo road trip. I was 20 and drove a rental car from my house in Seattle down to Santa Cruz CA. It was the most exhilarating time. No one really knew where I was and I didn't have a set destination. I just drove and when I was tired I stopped at inexpensive motels and I slept. I stopped at the beach on the Oregon coast line and remembered feeling free and at peace.

Had it not been for the structure and expectations of friends, family, and society in general I think I easily could have forgone education and made bigger mistakes and now in adulthood I would be facing consequences I tried to hide from during my youth.

Where all of this was going is... I think my 25th year has been my greatest year to date. Instead of bringing the adventure I had hoped for I've made peace with the maturity I've been dodging. It has finally caught up with me and I've found that I actually like it. I'm confident I can take care of myself. I've found happiness and contentment in my relationships. I'm embracing adulthood and I'm excited for the next chapters in life.

Emmy Fashion

2009-09-21T14:52:00.000-07:00

My favorite looks of the night included:

January Jones in Versace

Heidi Klum had my favorite all around look of the night. Look at that silhouette! It doesn't get fiercer than that! She wore a custom made black Marchesa gown which managed to flaunt all the right curves and hide any imperfections.

Kate Walsh wore my favorite dress of the night. I loved the sweetheart neckline and the gorgeous draping. The floor length J. Mendel dress felt effortlessly formal and perfect for the night. The bangles and earrings are cute and the clutch was $30 from Aldo which is so fab. The only thing I wasn't too crazy about was the hair. I think a Grecian inspired updo with curls would have been pretty. I guess her hairstyle was chosen as part of a suave commercial where people voted so she didn't have a lot of choice.
Sandra Oh looked flawless in this gold floor length Marchesa gown. That dress fit her like a glove. I could have done with out the tassel belt though!

Olivia Wilde is stunner of a beauty. Usually I am not a fan of dresses that utilize nude netting. It looks a little too ice princess to me but I thought this Marchesa gown was pretty and the look was supported by flawless make-up.
I really enjoyed Blake Lively's Versacy gown. I have the feeling she'll be blasted by the fashion police but I thought the gown was very flattering and was young and sexy without being distasteful. I wasn't a huge fan of the uber long Fergie inspired braid though.

Kristen Chenowith. This 41 year old uber petite actress looks about 21 in this short sparkly Zuhair Murad designed dress. She came under criticism for being too casual for the Emmys but I love it and she seems to love it which is even more important. However, I would have added a bangle and swapped out those hideous shoes with a strappy nude heel.

I have the feeling there was a collective sigh of relief when Drew Barrymore chose not to dress up in her roller derby punk inspired costumes. In reality she could have worn any pretty dress and would make any best dress list.

Not my Faves:

Christina Hendricks in L'Wren Scot. Ms. Hendricks has some killer curves and and a coke bottle body but this dress seems taught in all the wrong places The fabric wrinkles in her thigh area are not flattering. Plus the color of the dress is a little goth against her pale skin. Had she chosen a dress that flaunted her curves she could have been a show stopper among swizzle stick actresses.
I think Leighton Meester is a very pretty girl with a fab body but I am not feeling this look at all. The Botega Vaneta dress is not particularly flattering and the whole look is confusing to me. It's not "pretty" or "edge". It just feels a little messy.

Hayden Pannettiere looks very matronly in this J. Mendel dress. She's so young but nothing about this is youthful. The red lips, updo, and draping would be a much better fit for someone twice her age.

Shopping at the Bravern

2009-09-19T08:34:00.000-07:00

Last night my mom and I went to check out the new Bravern shopping center in Bellevue. It's so nice the Pacific Northwest has a Neiman Marcus with a Chanel and Prada boutique. Although I can't afford anything they have to offer it was nice to drool over the fabulous quilted bags. We checked out the Louis Vuitton store and I am convinced my next bag is going to be the Damier Canvas. An expensive classic that will last for ever. We also checked out Jimmy Choo and Anthropologie. They set up a few different outdoor fireplaces and seating areas. I think it's going to be a great hang out spot when the weather is warm.

For dinner I had a pizza at the Artisional Table. It's a great date restaurant where you can split a salad and pizza. I also brought home some cupcakes from Trophy cupcakes which I love!!

I'm dying to try the Artisional Brasserie and Winebar with my girlfriends. It looks yummy and super fun!

The Secret Life of Bees

2009-09-19T07:12:00.000-07:00

Last night boyfriend and I watched The Secret Life of Bees and it was wonderful. It's a movie set in the rural south in 1964. It shows a community coming to terms with the newly signed Civil Rights Act and old southern traditions. The characters are quirky and have depth. Dakota Fanning and Queen Latifa are especially impressive in their roles.

I laughed a little and cried a lot and I would recommend it as a great weekend rental.

Wine Labels

2009-09-18T11:57:00.000-07:00

So Lately I've been on a huge party planning / hosting binge and loving every minute of it!!! On Monday I'm having my dear friend Kim over for dinner to celebrate her birthday. Here's a sneek pick of the wine label I designed that is going to be on our bottle's of wine!

Kim's Bday by ive2334 featuring Element

Kim's Bday by ive2334 featuring Old Navy

Kelly's Wedding

2009-09-15T17:39:00.000-07:00

This past weekend boyfriend and I took Friday off from work and drove down to Salem Oregon for my co-worker Kelly's wedding and it was so much fun. Her wedding had a Hollywood theme. They ceremony was held in an old school movie theatre. The groom walked down the aisle to the theme music from Top Gun and the bridesmaids wore Marilyn Monroe inspired dresses. On each place setting was a romantic movie quote. It was a really cute event!

The wedding party was one of the largest I've ever seen. There were eight groomsmen, 5 bridesmaids, 2 bridesmen (which I loved!), three ring bearers, and a flower girl. They looked so fab stading up on the theatre with the eiffel tower in the background.

Marilyn greated guests at the door and Boyfriend asked for her digits. I was cool with it:-)

Boyfriend and I with wonky eyes!

Read This!

2009-09-11T10:25:00.000-07:00

A few years ago I read a great book by Anna Maxted called Running with Scissors. It was a fun summer read that I greatly enjoyed. It had a little more heart than most novels in the Chick Lit category but was still felt like a guilty pleasure read. I was really excited to read some other works by this witty English author. I purchased Behaving Like Adults to read on while I was on vacation in Mexico. I was anticipating a light summer read but after a few chapters I was really surprised by the intensity of the subject matter. I recently picked the book up again and was riveted. I loved the characters. They had depth and were relatable. It was the perfect combination of light hearted fun and exploratory truths that allows the reader to question their own values and explore how they would react if faced with similar circumstances.

I highly recommend it!

Nicole Richie Baby Names

2009-09-09T11:36:00.000-07:00

So I love Nicole Richie... I think she's fabulous and it has been so much fun to watch her evolve and come into her own. Last night she just gave birth to a baby boy and named him Sparrow James Midnight Madden. I love it! It's creative and serene at the same time. Just like little Harlow Kate Winter Madden.

The Gorge In George!

2009-09-09T09:26:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I packed up and headed to the Gorge with two of my good friends Taylor and Kim. It was a belated BDay celebration for Tay's bday in June. The ride up was super wet and rainy. We kept waiting for the rain to clear but it seemed like it had a mind of its own and was on some sort of drench mission.

My Hair did not take nicely to the rain!

When we arrived at the campgrounds it was still raining and the grounds were overflowing with hardcore DMB fans. We entered the gates and drove past honey buckets, tent-like sleeping contraptions that were a little foreign to me, and super deluxe campers that caused me to have an extreme case of RV envy! We kept driving as directed and the campgrounds attendant opened up one of the gates where there was a pasture with grass up to my knees. I was very skeptical as this did not look like the other areas of the campgrounds. We then realized we were sharing a pasture with cows and we had been herded into some sort of overflow camping area!

After we positioned our car Kim put us to work! Thank goodness for her and her camping knowledge. If she hadn't been there to run the show Taylor and I would have been some wet and miserable campers. I was not really able to contribute much. In fact Kim sent me to "Yonder" to gather rocks. When you're in the country yonder is pretty close. While I was completing my chore some girl loudly whispered, "Why is that girl picking up rocks? That's so weird." I tried in vain to explain myself but it was to no avail. I got labeled the "weird" girl in a sea of extremely weird people. I felt like in a line up of me, the women at Pacific Place who wear burlap, don't shave, and dance with full body movements to music that no one hears but them, I would have come out weird.... Like that kid in elementary school who forgoes recess to pick up bugs... I pick up rocks!

The concert started after some of the rain died down and Dave played a lot of his bigger hits which I really enjoyed. It was fun to watch the people who were smoked out of their minds passed out on the grass. I'm not sure how it's possible to be so stoned out of your mind that you fall asleep on a wet muddy hill with an extreme incline, where music is blasting, and you're surrounded by crazy crowds of people but to each their own.

When I got home Boyfriend went to give me a hug and then said, "Maybe you should go take a shower boo." I tried to protest but my attempt to sit on the couch was met with, "We need to put protective covering down before you sit on the clean couch... iloveyou." Apparently I was a little stinky:-)

Goat Cheese Ravioli

2009-09-03T12:05:00.001-07:00

Last night boyfriend and I had two of our friends over for dinner. We were celebrating some good news and I tried a new recipe. I've been dying to make home made ravioli for the longest time. I found a great goat cheese ravioli recipe on line. It wasn't too difficult and it turned out delish!

For the filling mix together:

3 oz fresh goat cheese
1/4 cup ricotta cheese
1 garlic clove
2 tbsp shaved parmesan cheese
1 pinch of nutmeg

I am still waiting to purchase the ravioli maker attachment for my Kitchen Aid. so I used wonton noodles for the wrappers. Boyfriend was super skeptical but they turned out great. I was able to find the wonton wrappers at Whole Foods and the Uwajimaya store in Bellevue.

To finish the ravioli you place a tsp of filling inside the wrapper. Dip your finger in a cup of water and wet the edges of the wrapper. Fold it over to creat a little triangle and make sure to seal the edges.

I finished the goat cheese ravioli with a parsley sauce that was also super easy.
2 tbsp of finely chopped parsley
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp of water
1 tbsp of shaved parmesean cheese
1 tsp of sea salt

I served this with foccachia bread and asparagus that was grilled with shaved gouda cheese.

Santa Cruz Wedding

2009-09-01T09:46:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend my mom, Aunt Bernadette, and I flew to Santa Cruz for my cousin's wedding. Our first stop was Gilbert's Seafood Grill on the warf. I had a yummy crab bake and was able to see surfers on the beach and in the water.

That night we went to the rehursal dinner and I was able to meet relatives on my mom's side who I had never met before. I had an awkward moment with my four year old cousin when I asked him what his favorite super hero was and he looked at me and said, "That's an innappropirate question!" I guess he's a little sheltered... but still a little awkward.

The next day we met my Aunt's grandson and great grandson for breakfast. They were very nice and brought her a beautiful bouquet of roses.

The wedding was at a gorgeous venue outside of Santa Cruz. It is called the Byington Winery and had views over looking Monteray Bay. The groom is Scottish and had relocated to South Africa with his family. He wore a kilt and so did the best man and the ring bearer. It was really cute!

The next morning we had brunch and headed out to the Wincester Mystery House. This home was built by Sarah Wincester in the early 1900's. The legend says Sarah Wincester lost her baby in infancy and her husband who was the heir to the Wincester Rifle fortune passed away a few years later. She went to a psychic in her state of greif and the psychic told her that rifle was responsible for her fortune and her misfortune and she was being haunted by evil spirits who had died at the hands of the rifle.

The fortune teller told her that to ward off evil spirits she had to build a house that was so posh and welcoming it would invite nice spirits and they would overrun the evil spirits. The fortune teller also said for her to achieve eternal life she was to never cease building her home.

She inherited $20 million dollars and had an income of $1,000 / day. This was in 1906 and was a lot of money. She moved to San Jose and continue construction on her home for 24 hours a day 7 days a week. The construction never stopped for 32 years. She built the home to confuse evil spirits so there are weird things like staircases that lead to the ceiling and doors that open to 8 foot drops. It was a beautiful and interesting place to visit!

Dating a new Stylist

2009-08-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

I cut out from work early yesterday to hit up a hair appointment. The girl I've been seeing for the last 18 months has moved on from Gene Juarez and in her place I scheduled an open appointment with a new stylist.

Meeting a new hair stylist always feels like a first date. I have certain criteria that a stylist must meet in order for drinks to lead to dinner. For instance, I can't see a short haired stylist... under any circumstances. I don't trust stylists with short hair. My experience has been that every hairstylist with the latest Victoria Beckham bob is absolutely convinced that I should to the same. I have to explicitly state that I am a long haired girl. I can't do short hair... I tried it once and it was awkward. I have a very round face with gigant pumpkin sized cheeks. Short hair accentuates that and it's not a good look.

I feel my second requirement is reasonable. The stylist has to be self styled in an acceptable manner. I remember being given a gift certificate to a Redmond salon with a snazzy name. I walked into the salon and saw my proposed stylist with a forehead full of '80's jumbo curling iron styled bangs I pivoted and walked out the exit. This may seem harsh and rude but saving $70 on a haircut is not worth a forehead full of hairsprayed bangs or a perm of any kind!

My third requirment is that my hairstylist can not look like she moonlights at any seedy establishments including tatoo parlors, strip clubs, and/or punk rock venues. I know this sounds a little WASPy but it has less to do with those establishments and more to do with personal preference. I'm a little too J. Crew to pull of any types of spikes, neon colors, or anything involving a razor. Plus, I believe my job may frown.

My stylist yesterday passed the three preliminary checkpoints in that she appeared normal. We discussed the cut I was looking for and we decided to move on from drinks and go to dinner - metaphorically speaking. 8 inches later I had fresh, fun, and healthy hair. Loved it!

But.... We were short on time and when she went to style it, she started by taking pieces of my hair and twisting it into dreadlocks circa early 2000 Jennifer Anniston at the Oscar's with a very unshaven Brad Pitt. I became nervous. In my head I was questioning why a discussion did not take place first. These dreadlocks were an awfully broad assumption for our first date... It was as if we had been dating for years and she thought it would be fun to change it up. This felt like the equivolant of being introduced to the waiter as the Girlfriend on the first date!

As the frizz on my head grew and grew, my face began to twitch slightly and I found myself chewing on my lip wanting to speak up but being afraid of coming across as difficult. All of a sudden out of no where my knight with shiny scissors interviened and offered to help. She was an older woman who was probably in her 40's. She was dressed in a simple skirt with a flower patter and a white dress covered with a black vest. She looked like she could be a kindergarten teacher. Her hair was cut a little below shoulder length and she had faint highlights. Whatever styling she had to offer would at least be in the realm of normal. She got to work defrizzing the golden halo that had grown around my forehead. While she was working she asked me questions about my life and talked about her children. I started to become more comfortable. She put away the god awful diffuser and brought out the curling iron. I thought thank goodness, a tool my hair responds to. Gone were the promises of heavily textured beach hair and my fears this was something more appropriate for Hemp Fest and in came the casual wavy curls.

Perfect - and that is how I met my new stylist!

A Day at the Lake

2009-08-25T15:54:00.002-07:00

Over the weekend I had my basketball team and their families up to my parents lake house. Some of my friends came over on Saturday to help me assemble cupcakes. Poor boyfriend looked a little lost surrounded by that many teenaged girls. The girls and their families are all so nice and we had ended up having a great Sunday at the lake!

2009-08-25T15:54:00.001-07:00

Weekend Update

2009-08-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

Friday night boyfriend and I headed out to one of my favorite Seattle restaurants Chinooks. When I was a kid my aunt worked for a travel agency next door to the restaurant. We used to go the restaurant and I would always order clam chowder and dip their fabulous bread in it!
After dinner we headed to the driving range to work on our swing. Ummm my swing needs a lot of work but boyfriend seemed to find his and sent those golf balls flying!

Saturday we went to a friend's BBQ at the Normandy Beach Club. It was really fun to BBQ on the beach. We even made S'Mores which I hadn't had in forever!

All in all it was a great weekend:-)

Resilliancy

2009-08-14T10:21:00.000-07:00

Resently this week I had a girl who I worked with at the Group Home over for homemade pizza. She's had a rough summer but things have started to stablilize for her. I got to her know her girlfriend a little bit and she seemed very nice. We joked and laughed about some of our crazy memories from our time there.

I dropped the girls off at their apartment and they were really proud to show the new furniture they purchased from Ikea and it was appearant how two girls who grew up being shuffled between foster homes and group homes found such a haven finally having their own place to call home. I am really proud and impressed with these two young adults.

After I got home Boyfriend and I were talking about how resilliant some people are. Everyone is born into situations that present challenges and the idea of "equal footing" that was big during the Affirmative Action days of the '90's has become an unattainable goal that we can continue to strive for. However, foster children tend to get lost in the mix and foster children are faced with hardships that are completely unique to their demographic and the reality of the situation is that the majority of these kids will not become functioning members of society. Their situation is as close of a guarantee to failure as any lot in life is. They are forced to overcome a multitude of hardship that many of us will never be faced with and they have to do that at a young age with virtually no adult help or guaidance.

Breath of Fresh Air

2009-08-12T09:42:00.000-07:00

Last night I met a good friend of mine from my days at Marquette for dinner. We went to a Belltown spot called Black Bottle and caught up on the last few years. It's so funny how facebook provides the outline and catching up is really just about filling in the cracks!

Anyways, Michelle is just an amazing girl and catching up last night was such a breath of fresh air. She's so down to earth and has accomplished so much. I couldn't fathom being a first year teacher and an MU grad student at the same time!! That's crazy. Her and her fabulous boyfriend LaRoy (who unfortunately didn't make his way out to Seattle) both have roots here and will be coming back over the Thanksgiving Holiday. I'm looking forward to them meeting Boyfriend. Although a little nervous for what embarrassing stories could come out of that meet and greet. Those two have a lot of dirt from my college days! After that I will be putting "Mission: Michelle and LaRoy Seattle Relocation" into full effect:-)

Restless

2009-08-11T17:33:00.000-07:00

I'm a girl who's prone to restlessness. It is not in my nature to conform to structure, rules, and expectations. You know, they are really no big deal - only the key ingredients necessary for success in adulthood. Some people thrive under those terms but not me. I'll do ok for a little while. I'll put my head down and work hard but I inevitably platue until I start to feel confined. At that point I dream of ditching the expectations and shedding the stress that hitched on to it.

I love change and spontainaity and most of all I love feeling free. There's an amazing feeling you have when your only obligation is to yourself and the things and people you choose. To have ownership over your time is freedom and the feeling of freedom is bliss.

I'm ready for an adventure. Not the kind that you plan out and save for but the kind that allows you to jump in the car without a clue of where you're going, how you'll get there, or what you'll do. I want the kind of adventure that allows you to turn your phone off and not tell a soul but return a changed and better person with a fresh perspective.

I'm dreaming of hippy clothes and tousled hair that requires no electronics. I want unlimited funds a sun so scorching the thought of wearing socks is laughable.... I want to be surrounded by languages I don't understand and smells that make my nose wrinkle in unfamiliarity. I want to take dozens of pictures and eat food recently removed from the ground.... I want to feel removed from obligations and drenched in newness.... I want to raise some eyebrows and continue on my unplanned way.

David Hasselhof and Cher Horowitz

2009-08-06T16:37:00.001-07:00

Is it just me or does David Hasselhoff's house pictured above look exactly like Cher's house from Clueless? Such an influential movie during my youth!

10 Things You May Not Have Known About Me

2009-08-03T15:35:00.000-07:00

So my friend at Every Day Delights requested this a while ago and here it is:

I love being barefoot. If barefoot is not an option, flip flops are option B. I wish I could wear flip flops all year long!
If I could have any job in the world I would be Doris Buffet. She is Warren Buffet's sister and heads up the Sunshine Lady Foundation. She donates money to nonprofits, causes, and individuals she feels could benefit from a financial contribution. People from all over the world write letters asking for financial assistance and she is able to fill those wishes. I couldn't imagine a better career.
On my way to my first date with David I hit a parked car and spilled a pink energy drink all down the front of my sweater. I arrived quite the hot mess and yet he loved me anyways.
My fingernails are almost always covered in chipped polish. I secretly feel a little rebelious and non comformist with my chipped nail polish and I hardly ever use polish remover. I like to pick the polish off myself.
I love to play sports and be active. I'm happiest when I'm outside doing something physical, whether it's on the extreme side like skiing powdery black diamonds or if it's on the mellow side like playing corn toss. If it's outdoors and active I'm a happy girl!
My family nickname growing up was Boo and after a few months of dating Boyfriend started calling me Boo without knowing that was my nickname growing up. So Boo carried on into adulthood.
I don't have an artistic bone in my body. I'm tone deaf and my drawing skills never really evolved past stick figures. In my quest for an artistic outlet I go on craft binges where I create so-so gifts and personalize everything insite. I've also found a love of gardening. I have some tomatoes, sunflowers, and Zinnia's that are thriving in my small garden.
I plan to adopt a foster child. Probably not any time soon but at some point I would like to. There are so many amazing kids in the world who have been dealt a horrible hand in life and are in need of a good home. At some point in my life I hope to provide that oppurtunity to a child. I really believe that every child deserves to grow up in a stable and loving household.
I love the smell of new construction and saltwater beaches. New construction that smells like sawdust and caulking and sheetrock makes me feel like home. I think it's because my dad did so many construction projects growing up. I also love the smell of drift wood on saltwater beaches. It's a smell that's unique to the Pacific Northwest but it reminds me of my grandpa because his beach cabin always smelled like that.
In my head I'm absolutely convinced that someday I'm going to win the lottery. Boyfriend and I love to talk about what we would do if we won the lottery. We always talk about the people we would help and how we wouldn't want our lives to change too much. I always say my splurge would be spending a week in the summer taking surf lessons in a tropical location and a week skiing the most amazing powder in the winter.

A fun weekend

2009-08-03T15:26:00.000-07:00

Gosh I wish I had pictures from this weekend!! On Saturday my co-worker Dave and his wife Yulia joined boyfriend and I up at the Lake House. We BBQ'd and went inner tubing. My favorite part of the night was playing Catch Phrase with the two couples and my Dad. It was a lot of laughter and fun.

On Sunday my girlfriends from high school came up and we had a girls day on the lake. Carol, Brynn, and Meghan all wakeboarded for the first time and they impressed the heck out of me for first timers. The girls were the bests guests and each brough yummy food and snacks. It made hosting super easy. I had such a great time and wish I could see them more often!

I'm also grateful to my parents who have given me the open invitation to invite guests up to the cabin. It's a fun casual spot to entertain.

Sunday night I went home to the cleanest house I've ever seen! Boyfriend unpacked and decluttered our house. A chore I volunteered for and then procrastinated long enough to know that he would master it. He even finished setting up my bathroom. It was the best surprise! We then snuggled up and watched the new episode of Entourage. It was a great weekend:-)

So Excited for the Weekend

2009-07-31T12:29:00.000-07:00

After an admittedly not too productive week at work this week I'm stoked for the weekend! Boyfriend and I are going go kart racing tonight and then spending tomorrow at the lake with some friends from work. On Sunday I'm heading back up and hosting my friends from high school up there. It looks like it's going to be a fun weekend:-)

Dreaming....

2009-07-28T15:21:00.000-07:00

I've never seen High School Musical so the only Ashley Tisdale point of reference I have is what's written on the celeb gossip sites that I'm addicted to. But I have to admit, everytime I see a pic of her pup Maui my heart melts like butter on toast and my mind drifts off into La-La land dreaming of my own Maui clone that I would name Tinsley. Boyfriend and I would take her on long walks in which her paws would never have to touch the ground and she'd stay bundled up in some sort of gaudy doggy couture.... I think I'm catching puppy fever again!

Alexander McQueen's House?

2009-07-28T14:01:00.001-07:00

Here are pics from Alexander McQueen's house. This is not at all what I would have guessed.... Bright white and minimalist. I would have predicted gaudy and gothic.

Weekend Update

2009-07-27T08:51:00.000-07:00

This was a very fun and busy weekend. My basketball had a tournament at Newport High School and ended up doing pretty well. It's so much fun to see them grow and get better. I love coaching!

Saturday boyfriend and I attended the wedding of my good friend's older sister Kristen Kennel. Her wedding was so nicely done. She really comes from one of the most hospitable families and they put on such a great and welcoming event.

Boyfriend and I at the end of the night leaving the Glass Muesum

Court and her sister Katie looking gorgeous

Kristen dancing with her dad. It was so sweet and brought tears to my eyes

Court, Me, Brynn, and Meghan during cocktail hour. I heart these girls!

Non Deflection

2009-07-23T10:39:00.000-07:00

After a few posts dedicated to mind numbing celeb gossip and tidbits I thought I'd crank out some substance. I have been fighting a case of the grouchies for the last month. I find myself increasingly annoyed and I am baffled at the cause of such great annoyance.

It's summer and the sun is shining and I'm spending my weekends wakeboarding, BBQing, and coaching... all things that I love but I am holding on to a secret grouchiness that at times rears it's ugly head and forces me to find my inner Miss Teen USA and fake a smile. I wish I could pinpoint the source of my little monster because he's causing me much guilt. I feel as though I should be happy and gratful for all the lovely things going on but deep down I'm just grouchy.

I'm trying to spend time with positive people and doing new fun activities hoping they will be the Rx for my grouchiness... that seems to work like Tylenol in that the symptoms are gone for a while only to return later. I wonder what the antibiotic for grouchiness is... I better find out soon before I turn into a full blown negative nancy!

David Silver's Moving on Up - or just Out

2009-07-23T10:04:00.001-07:00

Brian Austin Greene has listed his LA home for sale. The pics were very surprising to me. I guess I never would have pictured David Silver domesticating in a 1920's bungalow with Megan Fox.... I'm not sure what I would have pictured but this would not have been it.

Nick and Jessica Reunion?!?!

2009-07-13T16:49:00.000-07:00

Totally childish but nothing would make me happier than Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson reuniting. They are both coming off of harsh break-ups and I think they may just be meant for each other. I wonder if it's a possibility.....

Weekend Update

2009-07-13T16:20:00.000-07:00

Friday kicked off with two basketball games which my team unfortunately did not win. My dad came to the games though and that was fun. Later that night Boyfriend and I tried out a new West Seattle restaurant called Fresh Bistro. The food was really good and the wait staff was super friendly. I think they are still going through their growing pains a bit but I could see that becoming a fave west seattle spot. After dinner we walked off our food by hitting up Alki and taking a bunch of goofy pictures. It was such a beautiful night and so pretty so see the stars, space needle, and the water. Those nights make me love Seattle.

Saturday I had two more bball games. We went 1-1 which isn't too bad but we could have done much better. Boyfriend and I hit up the west seattle festival. I think they were gearing up for Seafaire. There were tons of booths, floats, and food. Plus it was a million degrees outside.

Sunday I had more bball... Then Boyfriend and I hit the gym and got in a faboosh workout. After that we did lunch at the Cheesecake Factory and I had my fave grilled salmon, asparagus, and mashed potatoes. One of my favorite meals. Then we went and saw Bruno which I do not recommend. It was way too much and I have no idea how it did not receive an NC-17 rating. Children should not be allowed to watch it.

Up in the Gym working on my fitness

2009-07-07T10:20:00.000-07:00

After a very long hiatus I am back to working out. However, the beginning is tough and far from pretty!!!! Last night I hit the gym up and then went to coach bball and ended up playing with the girls for 2 hours. I was sooo soar but I'm determined to start feeling fit and healthy again! Above is my goal!!!

4th of July

2009-07-06T10:50:00.000-07:00

"Baby Jackson"

Beth concentrating and attempting to beat the boys

John preparing to toss

The USC edition

Boyfriend with Beans in Hand

Boyfriend and I had a fun and low key fourth of July. It started out with an intense run/workout at the park. This was my first workout in about a month and I almost died. Boyfriend had me doing windsprints and push ups (I deteste push ups), sit-ups, bench dips, and a mile run. I was exhausted, a little bit grouchy, and soar from wakeboarding the day before! After drill sargeant Boyfriend calmed down we headed out to his co-workers for a BBQ.

Boyfriend brought this corn toss game which his friend makes and is a really fun tailgate party game. http://www.nwcorntoss.com/. We had great food and the highlight of the night was Boyfriend's kareoke rendition of Billie Jean! He did all his "baby Jackson" moves. It was so funny:-)

Late Father's Day

2009-07-06T10:39:00.000-07:00

Sunset from the Deck

Boyfriend after he won in scrabble

My Dad relaxing in the Hammock

Boyfriend on the dock

The Hammock we bough my dad for Father's Day

Boyfriend on the dock

Me wakeboarding

My Dad and Boyfriend

My Dad

All day Thursday I was like a kid on Christmas Eve waiting for a a day off on Friday. I was super stoked! On Friday boyfriend and I went up to the lake to celebrate a late Father's Day with my Dad. We had so much fun. Boyfriend prepared steaks that my Dad thought were delish. My dad and I wakeboarded. Boyfriend and I spend sometime swimming in the lake. It was the perfect place to spend a day off and chillout in the 80 degree heat.

2009-07-01T08:21:00.000-07:00

I'm not the most organized person in the world and often my mornings are a frantic dash against the clock but something different happened this morning and I'm still a little bit in awe. I woke up on time without the usual routine of Boyfriend attempting to lure me out of bed for a good 45 minutes before I open my eyes. I managed to make a delisious smoothie, do a load of laundry, iron my dress, water my flowers, and leave the house 45 minutes early with full hair and make-up. It was truly blissful and a great stress-free way to begin the day! I wonder if I can repeat it tomorrow?

image: King 5

My Thoughts Exactly

2009-06-29T15:55:00.000-07:00

Please click here to read John Mayers tribute to Michael Jackson. He articulates my thoughts exactly.

Bowling, Boating, and Sunburns

2009-06-29T15:14:00.000-07:00

Friday night started out with a fun during work hours trip to the bowling alley with my co-workers. We opened up the bar and had a grand time. I've learned that my bowling skills sink considerably when I drink:-) but I also learned vanilla lemon drops are delish!

After those festivities boyfriend and I stopped by his friends bday party in Redmond and mingled for a while. before going out on a pseudo date night. It was a lot of fun.

Saturday morning started off with a bang. Josh, Tish, and Scot stopped by we watched the latest episode of Paris Hilton's My New BFF in which a friend of ours is currently starring... So funny:-) After that we headed up to the lake house and spent the day tubing and wake boarding. I had a great time! The three of them together are the funniest people in the world. It was so fabulous to laugh in the sun! I did get crazy sunburned and woke up super soar the next day though... Some day I will come to terms with my Irish heritage and realize that sunscreen is my friend!

Saturday night I was ridiculously late but we went out to celebrate Tay's bday at my fave restaurant Purple. My hot pink dress definitely matched my hot pink skin. Purple has the most delish baked brie ever!!!

Boyfriend and I spent Sunday at home bbq-ing and watching movies. It was the a comfy way to end a great weekend!

Michael Jackson Passes Away

2009-06-25T14:55:00.000-07:00

Wow... I can't believe Michael Jackson passed away.

End of the Trail Tournament

2009-06-23T16:24:00.001-07:00

The Girls Before Dinner

Over the weekend Boyfriend accompanied me to our basketball tournament in Oregon City. The girls were a lot of fun and they played really well. I think Lake Washington may make a splash in KingCo 4A.

It was a little nostalgic for me because I played in this tournament every year. It still amazes me how much joy I've found in coaching. I enjoy a lot of different things but I have never loved an activity as much as I love basketball. I've had a love affair with basketball since I was about 7 years and I doubt I'll ever out grow it:-)

A Jackass Lived here?

2009-06-18T10:14:00.000-07:00

Jonny Knowville has just place his primrose hill CA home on the market for $2.29 M. Unlike Bam Margera's crazy castle this is a beautiful home with classic calming decor and a scerene outdoor space. Obviously Jonny had help from a female.

Umm... What?

2009-06-17T15:33:00.001-07:00

So I'm a total Kobe hater... Not a fan at all but is it just me or does this shirt not make sense? It would make sense if he just won his fifth ring but it looks like he's missing a finger. I love that Lebron wore that shirt. It's such a cocky statement:-)

West 5

2009-06-17T10:28:00.000-07:00

Kim picked me up for tennis yesterday and I forgot to bring the garage door opener so I was accidentally locked out of the house after lessons. To kill some time we went to West 5 and had yummy nachos while we waited for Boyfriend to get home.

I like to consider myself a nacho conisour (sp? that's a hard one:-)) They're my comfort food and I have sampled all types of nachos. However, the ones at West 5 were delish and impossible to describe. I would recommend checking out this fun West Seattle spot.

image: westfive.com

Weekend Update

2009-06-15T17:29:00.000-07:00

Friday night I had the girls over for dinner. I've been on a major ravioli kick for the last two weeks and decided to make it for the girls. We had brie and smoked gouda as an appetizer and asparagus ravioli with a pesto sauce, mixed salad, and wheat sweet bread for dinner. For dessert I made a home made 4 tier angel food and strawberry cake. It took a few attempts but I think the end result was yummy. A few glasses of wine and great friends always equals a fun time:-)

Saturday I had a basketball game during the day and was planning on playing it low key that night until I received a phone call from one of my favorite people... Joshua. He was in town from Washington D.C. and was coming up to Seattle with our other friend Tisha. We hit up a capital hill gay bar called R. House. It was my first time at a gay bar and I was a little surprised. It was definitely different than what I was expecting. I got in around 2:30 and felt like such an old lady because it was the first night I had gone drinking and dancing and stayed out that late in so long!

Sunday morning I picked David up from the airport. It was so fabulous to have him home again and I was happy he had such a fabulous time in LaLa land. My b-ball team played three games on Sunday and took second place in their tournament. The team is coming together and hopefully the girls will be a force this year.

Real Housewife of OC in Foreclosure

2009-06-13T09:47:00.000-07:00

So one of my guilty pleasures is the Real Housewives franchise on Bravo. I was super surprised to learn that Real Housewives of OC cast member and real estate agent Jeana Keogh had to apply for a loan modification after a lien was placed on her primary residence in Costa De Caza. Yikes! That sounds stressful and not good P.R. for a real estate agent...

Kendra's Preggers

2009-06-11T12:21:00.000-07:00

I think it's so adorable that Kendra Wilkinson released the news she's preggers. I saw Kendra's debut on Sunday and her and Hank are adorable. I'm excited to see the upcoming season as they navigate parenthood!

Go Girl!

2009-06-09T13:40:00.001-07:00

Former first lady and first grandladdy has a lovely pool boy. You go Barbara Bush!

Watch This!

2009-06-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

OMG Mark Paul Gosselar made an appearance on Jimmy Fallon last night and it was hysterical. He showed up as his character Zack Morris and I was shocked to see how he has not aged at all. He could easily play the teenager to this day. Click here to watch the skit:-)

image: Perez Hilton

Buy These

2009-06-09T10:01:00.001-07:00

When summer roles around I will usually head out to J. Crew to purchase my favorite summer shorts. They used to carry the "perfect fit" not too short, lowrise shorts. They come in a bunch of fun colors and I like to stock up and wear them as basics all summer. I was bummed to find that J. Crew is no longer carrying their signature "perfect fit" shorts and I was even more bummed when the sales associate encouraged me to try on their bermuda length chinos which are super unflattering on any girl with hips and thighs. After not loving the image the ill fitting shorts emblazoned in my brain I went on a mission. I hit up Banana Republic, the Gap, H&M, and Nordstrom on a quest for my new perfect fit summer basics shorts. I struck out at every location and could not find cute shorts in basic colors.

Sometimes I have a tough time shopping for basics when I know exactly what I want because I'll tend to find the trendy version and become frustrated. For instance J. Crew did have some cute shorts but I didn't want nautical stripes and anchors, or cargo pockets, string belts, and funky folds. I wanted classic shorts with clean lines in solid colors.

I was surprised and excited to find exactly what I was looking for at Old Navy. They had basic low rise shorts in solid colors like, white, black, navy, and gray. The quality is comparable to what I was purchasing at J. Crew. I even think the fit is a little better and the best part is I only paid $19.95! I was spending around $45-$50 a pair at J. Crew. I am very excited and happy with my find and will proudly be rocking my Old Navy shorts all summer!

Image: OldNavy.com

See This: The Hangover

2009-06-08T17:33:00.000-07:00

On Sunday night Joleen, Tay, Kim, and I ventured out to see the Hangover and it was very funny. I highly recommend it to anyone. You are pretty much guaranteed to laugh out loud!

Christian Siriano Fall 2009 Collection

2009-06-05T10:32:00.000-07:00

Love the shoes!
That jacket is fierce

You can see the 80's influence yet still feels current

I hate those booties. They look like my 8th grade basketball shoes but I love the silhouette of this dress. It's fun and flirty yet still contstrained.

This could translate to a woman of any age

I love the trend of a mini with a full skirt. It's fashions answer to the mullet!

Sexy in the front and formal in the back!

I would love to wear this dress somewhere completely innapropriate like the bowling alley and take crazy pictures holding a Pabts or exiting a beat up pick up truck....

It's Christian!

Here are some pics from my fave looks in Christian Siriano's Fall 2009 Collection. His entire collection can be viewed on his website. Christian was my all time fave project runway designer and I have always been excited to see his designs and trend forecast.

He relied hevily on brown's with a surprise pop of a turquise-ish blue as his color pallet. He displayed everything from a safari tan to a deep chocolate brown. I love browns because they look so fab with every skin tone.

An interesting thing he did was recreate the signature Christian Louboutin red soles and go with a pop of blue. I imagine many shoe designers and budget shoe designers will be paying attention to the shoe sole.

Some of the head ware was a bit distracting but it did give the collection and edgier look which is Siriano's signature.

images: ChristianVSiriano.com

It's almost the weekend

2009-06-05T09:41:00.000-07:00

Last night I feel asleep at 8:30 and still had trouble waking up this morning!! Gosh I totally crashed and am looking forward to sleeping in this weekend:-)

I have a few plans for the weekend but nothing too big and I'm really trying to keep it low key. Tonight boyfriend and I are going to go run along the beach. It sounds romantic but the real picture will involve my not in shape booty huffing and puffing with my hair in full frizz mode and my face the color of a tomato! Image may not be great but it will feel good to get in some good exercise.

Saturday we have a car was for the basketball team. It's at the DQ in Kirkland for anyone who may be in the area and would like to support the Lake Washington High School Girls B-Ball team. They're a great group of girls and are raising money for tournament fees for the year. Any support is much appreciated!

Saturday night a friend of mine is celebrating her birthday. We're going to bar hop through W. Seattle and I'm really excited to explore my new neighborhood. I still feel like there's a lot left to be discovered.

On Sunday I'm really hoping to spend time with Kim and Tay and to make it up to the lake for the day. I've been dieing to test out my new wakeboard and work on my tan. All I want to do is wakeboard until I'm exhausted and then open up my new W magazine and lay out and catch up on the influential fashionista's profiled in their June edition.

I never want to complain about the weather but it is such a tease to be stuck inside in an office all day while the sun is shining. All I want to do is go play and be outside. Hopefully I can get lots of that in this weekend!

Nicole Richie Buys a new House

2009-06-05T09:25:00.000-07:00

I've always been a Nicole Richie fan. I think she's hillarious and fabulous! Anyways she just purchased an Aspen inspired Laurel Canyon property shy of the $2 M. mark. The home is 5,380 square feet and has 4 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms. It looks like a super cute slightly bohemian place to raise a family. BTW I'm so excited to hear what they name their next child. I love the name Harlow. I hear it's a baby boy....

It's amazing how much the home prices have gone down in Los Angeles. I know Boyfriend and I will probably call L.A. home at some point in our advanture and it is nice to see we may not be entirely priced out of the city.

images: The Real Estalker

To Tweet or Not to Tweet

2009-06-03T15:57:00.000-07:00

So far I have successfully navigated around the self perceived leach infested quick sand pit commonly referred to as twitter. With my blog, facebook, and emails I'm pretty sure my extended circle feels more than updated on what I'm doing and I'm pretty sure no one is captivated by my ordinary life. If I were to join twitter, today's updates would probably include, "read up on company tax structure." "experiencing severe cramps" and "Currently questioning if my car has passed the point of economical and reached the level of slightly hoop-dy" obviously less than captivating.

I remember when I was exiting high school and entering college Madonna found Kabballa and subsequently Britney, Ashton, Demi, and a slew of celebrities followed. The rational part of my brain completely questioned a Catholic, 50 year old woman, with arms like a 19 year old boy, and who refers to herself as 'Esther' hawking a religion described as Jewish Mysticism. Yet the easily impressioned by celebrity piece of my brain overtook the rational part and I did major Kaballa research. Even after researching and reading all the self authored proganda from kabalaists my stuck in extended adolescence brain could not buy into the religion. Yet I did sport the trendy red string bracelet for a solid 8 months.

Flash forward a few (used generously) years and I find myself in the same situation. I desperately want to stay updated on the likes of Ashton Kutcher and Kim Kardashian with twitter pics and uploads. I want to advise Ryan Seacrest on what town he should hold a bachelor party and pretend that it was my suggestion that resulted in the party being held in Vegas. However, my rational brain will not let me and I can not over come it.

My other issue with twitter is I have a fear of joining and experiencing the twitter equivalent of high school rejection by having zero followers. I would put my tweets out into the world and unlike Megan Fox I would receive no comments. I'd suffer silent embarrassment picturing Larry King with close to a million followers and no idea how to operate his iPhone and me all by my lonesome.

Boo... so anyways in an ode to twitter here are five fabulously bazaar tweets by my fave fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld courtesy of the Huffington Post.

1. Chanel is an institution, and you have to treat an institution like a whore - and then you get something out of her. 11:12 PM Nov 16th, 2008
Did he just call the house of Chanel a whore?!?! Wow that's fashion blasphemy

2. On this day each year, I soak the previous year's calendar in my mother's favorite perfume and then set it ablaze. Here's to a fresh start 12:13 PM Jan 1st from web

3. Believe it or not, I love rap. 7:46 AM Jan 19th from web

4. Florals are for middle-aged women with weight problems. 9:15 PM Jan 26th from web

5. My dream? Transparent fur. The hair on plastic and not on leather. We've tried, but nobody has found it yet. 7:34 PM Feb 18th from web

6. I think I'm going to have a dinner party where no one speaks. I'll give all my guests pens and pads instead of the usual dinner conversation 6:47 AM Apr 24th from web

Sunday Funday!

2009-06-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

Boyfriend and I started Sunday by setting up our new living room furniture. It feels so fabulous not to share a single chair anymore! Then we went up to the lake and hung out with my cousins. I helped one of the girls wake board for the first time and that was pretty cool. My little cousin Bryer is 4 years old and he's a super boy's boy. He likes to punch and play with guns and swords and he never stops talking! He's the funniest little kid. He ran up and gave my mom a handful of worms and it reminded me of Robbie as a kid.

We headed home in the early afternoon and I jumped in the shower because I was running late to meet up with my girlfriends for dinner. When I hopped out of the shower boyfriend had bought and assembled shoe organizers for my closet and he had all my shoes on display! It was so cute and totally made me smile!

I started off dinner by locking my keys in the car which was a little bit of a bummer, but everything else was faboosh! It's been so fun spending time with the girls I grew up with. I have so many fabulous memories with these girls and I'm really excited to create more! We ate at a little hide away restaurant in Capital Hill called Spinasse... Appareantly it's Martha Stewart's favorite Seattle restaurant. I had asparagus ravioli and it was yummy. The best part is everyone is doing so well and it was so great to toast new and fun things in our lives!

Boyfriend met the girls for the first time after he came and dropped off my spare key. I was glad they were all able to meet finally. All in all it was a super fun weekend.

Carol's Engaged

2009-06-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

On Saturday night Carol's new fiance proposed! It was so cute to see how much he loves her and how special he made the moment for her! He invited all of their friends and his parents were there. She had no idea it was coming and was so excited. Congrats Carol!

Carol realizing what's about to happen

Nick Proposing

She says Yes!

The Girls

(Meghan, Ivy, Carol, Brynn, Joleen, Courtney)

The Ring

(this pic does not do it justice because that ring is gorgeous!)

Carol Chatting with her future Mother - in -Law

Nick and the Girls

(Meghan, Joleen, Carol, Nick, Brynn, Courtney, Ivy)

Trying to Find the Balance

2009-05-29T15:09:00.000-07:00

I imagine I'm not alone in saying this. I am having a difficult time balancing the different areas of my life. I'm blessed with a great life. My career is starting to take off and I have great family and friends not to mention a fabulous boyfriend and hobbies I genuinely enjoy.

However, lately I've been feeling like my time is being snatched away by a secret time bandit. Basketball has started to take off and we're signed up for 8 tournaments and twice a week practices through the summer. I love coaching but to to be honest, a piece of me seriously cringed when I saw my summer weekends evaporate!

It's not all gloom and doom... The sun is shining and this weekend I am looking forward to finally moving all the way out of my Queen Anne apt. I'm such a procrastinator and I have finished moving out or cleaned the place yet!

I'm very excieted to wakeboard, lay out in the sun, and BBQ and catch up with some fun friends from high school! Definitely looking forward to seeing those girls!

Memorial Weekend

2009-05-26T09:59:00.000-07:00

Wow- Memorial Weekend went by way too fast. Boyfriend and I filled our time up home projects, gardening, visiting family and friends, dog sitting my boss' labs, and BBQing. I'm looking forward to a four day work week!

New Song Obssession!

2009-05-21T15:54:00.000-07:00

I love Jason Mraz and could listen to him on repeat. This song called Shy That Way came up recently on Pandora and I'm obsessed! It's an artist who I'm not familiar with named Tristan Prettyman and it features Jason Mraz. I reccommend you download asap!

Lo Photo Shoot

2009-05-21T14:50:00.000-07:00

This is a very Jennifer Aniston pose/look

I love love this dress!

Ok so here's a guilty confession / secret. I totally heart The Hills and Lo Bosworth has been my fave since Laguna Beach. She recently did a photo shoot with OK Magazine and these are the pics. I have been badgering my girlfriends about spending a day shooting our own photos for fun. I love the idea of recreating professional shoots using their hair, make-up, and wardrobe as inspirations. This shoot looks like it could easily be recreated in Kirkland or off my parents dock. I'll have to look into it!

2009-05-21T10:31:00.000-07:00

Last night my mom and I went to Palamino's and then saw Grease at the 5th Ave. theatre. Grease is such a fun production! You can sing along and dance through most of the songs plus the costumes are so fun. Taylor Hicks was in the production. It's crazy becuase he's heavily hyped on the Marquee and advertising but he plays the teen angel and is only in one scene. I'm not a huge A.I. fan so it didn't make much difference to me but there were some audience members who treated Taylor Hicks' introduction like he was Justin Timberlake or something.

All in all it's a fun and fabulous way to kick-off summer and I definitely reccommend it!

Dinner with Friends

2009-05-20T16:21:00.000-07:00

Last night boyfriend and I met up with our friends B and Steve. We went to Purple Cafe downtown (after I forgot to make reservations at Wild Ginger.) Purple is one of my fave Seattle restaurants. We started off with the baked brie apetizer which is delish! For dinner I had the pear and goat cheese pizza and it was amazing. Steve ordered goat cheese ice cream for dessert... it was ummmm interesting.

It was so fun catching up with Brandy and Steve. I hardly ever get to see her because she's a busy lady. We all had a great time at dinner. B and I traded war stories from Ruth Dykeman and it was fun listening to Steve chime in and try to relate with tax stories... somehow a disgruntled tax client pales in comparison to crazy teenagers who try to blow up buildings.

All in all it was a great night and I hope we get to do it again soon.

The Kick-off To Summer

2009-05-15T16:41:00.000-07:00

Aww that's a cute pic!

Yikes! Not my best pic... that whole photogenic thing continues to evade me:-)

Love the purse Darren!

Last night Kim, Darrn, Tay, Dave, boyfriend and I headed out to Peso's to celebrate Kim finishing her second year of law school and becoming a 3L and Tay finishing her finals and only having a year left until she finishes her masters. I have smart friends! Peso's was fun and yummy. I had a couple of cocktails and a quesadilla that was faboosh!

Die Bier Stube

2009-05-14T13:35:00.000-07:00

Last night my coworkers and I headed to a German bar in Ravenna called Die Bier Stube. I'm not really a beer drinker and their menu beer heavy and a little intimidating because it was all in German. I pointed to a cocktail called the Uber Tang thinking it had a fun name! It ended up being the German equivalent of a Vodka Red Bull and totally broght me back to my college days! I was a little wired when I got home.

Madre's Day

2009-05-11T13:23:00.000-07:00

I have a fabulous mother. She is kind and selfless. She has a wicked sense of humor and doesn't take herself or life too seriously. My favorite thing about my mom is that she is who she is. No apologies or heirs about her. She is usually the life of the party... not to mention the planner and host! She loves our family unconditionally and she has a huge heart. She's a pretty cool lady and I'm very lucky to call her mom.

For mother's day we celebrated with a backyard BBQ and a few rounds of croquette. Boyfriend was introduced to the sport and was able to see where my competitiveness comes from! It was a fun Sunday!

Moving Day

2009-05-11T13:18:00.000-07:00

Saturday was moving day and we were armed with a fabulous crew. Many thanks go out to my brother who drove in from Ellensburg and graced us with his professional moving skills! My mom brought over lunch and my fabulous dad spent all Saturday helping us out. It was much appreciated and I'm incredibly grateful for such a fabulous family. They always say "keep the friends who help you move!" I'm lucky to have a family who does it!

I Heart Coscto

2009-05-08T16:02:00.000-07:00

Costco was doling out the best samples today! I'm such a sucker for Costco samples. btw - this pic does not do it justice!

Title IX

2009-05-06T15:46:00.000-07:00

I recently ran across an article that outlined the role of Title IX and questioned how far we have come. Some interesting facts: On a collegiate level, while 55 percent of college students are female, women’s teams receive only 38 percent of college sports operating dollars and 33 percent of college athletic team recruitment spending. For a WNBA player in the 2009 season, the minimum salary was $35,190; the maximum salary was $99,500; and the team salary cap was $803,000. For NBA players in the 2008-2009 season, the minimum salary was $442,114; the maximum salary was $13,758,000; and the team salary cap was $58 million.

The accessibility and oppurtunity for girls and women to participate in sports is important. It looks like we still have a ways to go in our pursuit towards equality. If you have a chance support a female athlete. Every fan makes a difference.

Pics from the Met

2009-05-06T09:53:00.000-07:00

The Bad

Andre Leon Talley in Isabella Toledo

Winona Ryder in Marc Jacobs

Kirsten Dunst in Chanel

Madonna in Louis Vuitton

Leighton Meester in Loius Vuitton

Molly Simms in Dolce and Gabbana

Stella McCartney in Stella McCartney

Anne Hathaway in Marc Jacobs

Donatella Versace and Cindy Crawford in Versace

Fabiola Beracasa in Chanel

I know I'm a bit of a hater but some of the choices were hideous. I mean seriously, Leighton Meester how are you going to make your Met debut in reworked gothic curtains? The fit is weird. The bow tied shoes are weird. The pantsuit is weird. Every piece of that was hiedous layer over hideous layer. Madonna looks like a punk troll. The House of Versace could not look any less relevant than the Little Mermaid inspired creations above. I know it's a little harsh to include Anne Hathaway but she's usually so right on with her fashion choices. I don't hate the dress it's just the over the top styling that is distracting.

Pics from the Met

2009-05-06T09:33:00.000-07:00

The Good

Kate Beckinsale - Marchesa

Eva Longoria - Diane Von Furstenburger

Katy Perry Tommy Hillfiger

Eva Mendes Calvin Klein

Ashley Olsen The Row

Jessica Biel in Versace

First Day as W. Seattlelites

2009-05-06T08:26:00.000-07:00

(pic from the restaurant wall)

Last night boyfriend and I met our friends Kim and Tay and their boys. They came over bearing a bottle of wine (so thoughtful) and checked out our new empty home. We then went out to Peurta Vallarta in West Seattle. Our first official day as West Seattlelites was off to a great start. Thanks friends!

Keys!!

2009-05-05T15:30:00.000-07:00

We have keys! Our fabulous real estate agent dropped off a beautiful and thoughtful gift and keys to our new place!

So Sweet and Thoughtful

2009-05-05T13:51:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I was feeling a little bummed out by my car accident until I received the most thoughtful surprise. Boyfriend bought me a generous gift certificate so I could shop my way out the blues and then took me to Jillian's We played arcade games and air hockey last night. It was so much fun. I felt very lucky to have such a great guy. I felt so grateful I even let him win at the basketball game!

Some Pics from the Weekend

2009-05-04T10:24:00.000-07:00

Boyfriend and I house sat for my cousin and her super cute dog Sam.. We had a great time!

Scary Scary...

2009-05-03T16:28:00.000-07:00

This weekend I was involved in a car crash on 5-20. It was pretty scary but luckily everyone was ok. Just a good reminder that accidents happen and it's important to be aware... yikes!

Dahlia Lounge / Dining out for Life

2009-05-01T08:18:00.000-07:00

Last night boyfriend and I tried a new restaurant that was participating in Dining Out for Life. 30% of las nights proceeds supported the fight to end AIDS. The restaurant had a neet vibe and the food was delish! I had crab cakes with asparagas and couscous. Boyfriend ordered halibut that was fabulous! For dessert he had their specialty donughts (random right) and I ordered the rhubarb shortcake. It was super good. All in all in was a very fun night!

Barbie Gets a Tramp Stamp?!?!

2009-04-30T16:33:00.000-07:00

Wow- so for Barbie's 50th birthday she's getting tatted up!!!! I'm not sure how I feel about this. I don't think it's a very good message to send young girls but then again has Barbie ever really been about promoting a good image for young girls? I suppose tattoos are less taboo than some iconic Barbie outfits and quotes... I'm sure this will receive some buzz!!

Tomorrow's Closing Day!!

2009-04-30T14:23:00.000-07:00

Our New Home!!

Boyfriend just found out that he is able to close 5 days earlier than anticipated. I can barely hide my excitement!!! I'm sooooo stoked. I just hope he's well enough to enjoy this fabulous moment! I've been placed under strict instructions that he will not read my blog if I continue to blog about his "personal information." There fore all I can say is homeboy's been sick and it hasn't been pretty. But that's ok because tomorrow we're buying a new house!!! Lovely:-)

People's 50 Most Beautiful People

2009-04-29T17:45:00.000-07:00

Here's the list. I was so happy to see Christina Applegate named this years most beautiful person. She has been so open an honest talking about her struggle with cancer and her proactive approach to beating the disease! Hats off to her.

A few of this years choices were fun surprises like Melissa Rycroft and Tristan Wildes. A few choices I didn't understand like Ciara. She hasn't done much in the last year career wise and she took an au natuaral no make-up picture which I give her credit for but she does not look to great in the pic. Another surpise is Christina Agulerra. I think she's looked like a hot mess this year and her imaging seems to be heavily borrowed from Lady GaGa.

I'm excited to see the rest of the list!

Puppy Fever

2009-04-29T14:05:00.000-07:00

I saw this picture of Kristen Cavallari in US magazine and it gave me a case of puppy fever! Boyfriend and I have gone back and forth about adopting a puppy. Maybe it will happen sooner than expected! Besides I'm pet sitting for my cousin's super cute shih tzu Sam this weekend. I bet that will help clarify things.

On a side note- I'm kind of excited for Kristen Cavallari's new role on The Hills. That is such a clever move by the producers. She was everyone's love to hate girl on Laguna Beach. I wonder how she's changed since those days. I remember when she trashed The Hills and their cast insinuating her fame and talent had extended far above that level. Karma's a biatch!

Dining Out For a Good Cause

2009-04-29T10:31:00.000-07:00

Dining out for life is a great cause that is easy to contribute to. On thursday April 30th select restaurants will be donating 30% of the cost of your meal to fight AIDS. For a list of participating restaurants check out www.diningoutforlife.com . I've tasked boyfriend with choosing our restaurant. I love a surprise and a good restaurant!

Movie Review

2009-04-27T09:42:00.001-07:00

This weekend I took one of the girls I used to mentor at RDCC to see the new Beyonce movie. I would give it a solid B-. It was suspensful and engaging yet predictable and had some suspect acting. Beyonce gave a decent performance. There was one intense fight scene she had with Ali Larter's character and I half expected her to bust out in dance choreography! Idris Elba is fantastic. Surprisingly, the worst actor was Jerry O'Connel.

I really liked the messaging of the movie. Beyonce plays a strong woman who takes care of the problem without the help of a man. I liked that she wasn't the innocent helpless wife waiting for her husband to come to the rescue. I also liked the portrayal of a strong successful african american family. Absent were the expected cliches about race and the taboo nature of a caucasian woman and african american man.

Tales from our Trip - Day One

2009-04-20T16:52:00.000-07:00

"Wow that's a lot of cheeks!" - Our first travel day was awesome! We arrived in LA early and we were picked up by Boyfriend's mom and aunt. They were really nice and drove us back to the house where boyfriend grew up. It was so fun seeing his old bedroom with posters plastered to the walls and his collection of G.I. Joe's. A bunch of boyfriend's childhood friends stopped by and it was great to meet them for the first time. We all went out to lunch and then his mom and aunt dropped us off at the ship port.

The ship was one of the largest cruise ships I've ever been on. The first thing we did was hit the buffet... Maybe not the best idea as reflected in the pics! This picture is from the mandatory life jacket "titanic" moment they prepare you for. That night we saw the cruise show which featured two comedians who were pretty funny, although they were not as funny as the Princess Cruiseline Dancers! The dancers had ferocious jazz hands which kept us laughing pretty hard.