allijean.

test 3

2011-10-22T18:46:00.001-07:00

To celebrate finishing Julia Child's "My Life in France" and today's rainy weather - tonight I made White Wine Coq au Vin from this month's Sunset Magazine. It was delicious and super easy to make. Our apartment smelled like heaven and the aroma even brought the neighbors over to see what I was cooking. Ok, so I don't even know if coq au vin is in any of Julia's cookbooks but I can say that after reading her book every night before bed, I'm feeling more inspired than ever to try French cooking.

White Wine Coq au Vin

via Sunset Magazine

Ingredients

4 1/2 tablespoons flour

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided

1 teaspoon herbes de Provence

4 slices bacon (1/4 lb.), chopped

1 1/2 pounds boned, skinned chicken thighs

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 1/2 cups peeled baby carrots

3 stalks celery

1 medium onion

1 1/3 cups Chardonnay

2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

1/2 cup lightly packed flat-leaf parsley sprigs

1/4 cup lightly packed fresh tarragon sprigs

Preparation

1. In a plastic bag, shake flour with 1/2 tsp. salt, 1/4 tsp. pepper, and the herbes de Provence; set aside.

2. In a 5- to 6-qt. pan over medium-high heat, brown bacon, stirring occasionally, 6 to 7 minutes. Meanwhile, cut chicken into 1-in. chunks, then shake half at a time in flour to coat.

3. With a slotted spoon, transfer bacon from pan to paper towels. Brown half the chicken in bacon fat, stirring occasionally, 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with remaining chicken, adding oil to pan. Meanwhile, cut carrots in half lengthwise and cut celery into diagonal slices. Chop onion.

4. Add vegetables to pan with remaining salt and pepper and sauté until onion is golden, about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, in a microwave-safe bowl, microwave wine and broth until steaming, about 3 minutes.

5. Add broth mixture, chicken, and bacon to pan, stirring to loosen browned bits. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, coarsely chop parsley and tarragon. Stir them into stew.

AN INTERVIEW WITH SIXX DESIGN

2010-10-21T18:36:00.000-07:00

Head on over to Coco + Kelley today to catch #2 in her Vignette Series. It's a really nice q&a with Sixx Design, who never fail to inspire me to create a beautiful home and always take risks in decor. The only remaining question is, when will their Bravo series return? A few of my favorites among their designs:

Diana Mini: First Roll

2010-10-21T14:50:00.000-07:00

Back in August, I bought myself a birthday gift. My first lomography camera. Isn't she cute? I took her to Vegas, Lake Tahoe and Big Sur hoping to capture some great scenery on my first roll. Well, let's just say that I was happy with what I got but I didn't get much. Here are pretty much the only shots that turned out on my first roll. Hopefully, there will be many more to come and lots of improvement too.

Style Icon: Nina Garcia

2010-08-13T08:45:00.000-07:00

I haven't watched Project Runway since it moved over to Lifetime but Nina Garcia was always my favorite part of the show. I became mesmerized by her chic outfit, funky jewelry and the hair, the HAIR! I would start coloring my hair if I could get it to look the exact same way...

Nina's wrote several books, one of which came out this week. She sat down for an interview with NY Magazine and reminded me how much I adore her with this quote "I have seen everything possible covered in studs and grommets. Also, what I call angry shoes: those platforms with the multiple buckles and studs. I think the polished girl is back."

Yes, Nina. The polished girl is back and let's reveal in it.

Chic Napkins

2010-08-12T08:30:00.000-07:00

I'm all about cloth napkins for entertaining at home. Since we live in a fairly small apartment, I don't have room to store fun serving plates or additional tableware so I tend to look to cloth napkins to brighten our tablescapes. Unfortunately, finding cloth napkins that don't look like your grandmother's seem terribly hard to find. Enter Hammocks & High Tea's organic cotton oh-so-chic line of napkins! I'm in love and greatly anticipating their foray into pillows in a couple of days.

Maya

Ikat Chevron

Citrine

Shaved Zucchini Salad with Parmesan & Pine Nuts

2010-08-11T08:33:00.000-07:00

Shaved Zucchini Salad with Parmesan & Pine Nuts

adapted from Bon Appétit (portions only), serves 2 as a side dish

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

dash of dried crushed red pepper

2 medium zucchini, trimmed and scrubbed

1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil

1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

Small wedge of Parmesan cheese

Whisk oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper in small bowl to blend. Set dressing aside.

Using vegetable peeler and working from top to bottom of each zucchini, peel zucchini into ribbons. Place ribbons in large bowl. Add basil and nuts, then dressing; toss to coat. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Using vegetable peeler, shave strips from Parmesan wedge over salad.

Spanish Stuffed Bell Peppers

2010-08-10T07:15:00.000-07:00

Stuffed Bell Peppers

adapted from Gourmet, serves 2 as main dish

3 whole red bell peppers

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, chopped

1 tomato, peeled, seeded, and chopped

1 garlic clove, minced

3/4 cup long-grain rice

1 1/2 cups chicken broth

1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted

1/2 medium sized zucchini, scrubbed and cut into 1/4-inch cubes

1 cup roughly chopped baby portabello mushrooms

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/4 teaspoon Tabasco sauce

Halve 2 of the whole bell peppers lengthwise, leaving the stem ends intact, core and seed them, and blanch in a large saucepan of boiling salted water for 3 minutes, or until just tender. Remove the peppers and invert them on paper towels to drain.

In a heavy skillet heat the oil over medium-low heat. Sauté the onion, the 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper, tomato, and garlic, stirring, for 15 minutes. Stir in the rice and cook the mixture, stirring, for 1 minute. Stir in the heated broth and salt and pepper to taste, bring the liquid to a boil, and simmer the mixture, uncovered, for 20 minutes, or until the rice is barely tender. Stir in the almonds, zucchini, mushrooms, cumin, cayenne pepper and Tabasco sauce. Divide the mixture among the bell pepper shells, mounding it. Bake the stuffed peppers in an oiled baking dish, covered, in a preheated 350°F. oven for 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

*This dish would be fabulous topped with a Mexican cheese like queso fresco or a nice crema. If you use queso fresco, sprinkle over the peppers just before the final 2 minutes of baking so it melts just slightly.

Weekend Soundtrack: 90's Flashback

2010-08-08T17:14:00.000-07:00

This week's weekend soundtrack takes a turn for the silly.

Witness: Justin Bieber's new single vs. The Cardigan's original.

Hear it?

Isn't baby Leo such a cutie?

SF Renegade Craft Fair Favorites

2010-08-07T17:32:00.000-07:00

The best part of the SF Renegade Craft Fair last week was discovering a few new artists.

Here are some highlights:

Tessa Kemp Jewelry

I tend to gravitate towards more delicate pieces of jewelry and Tessa Kemp's is right up my alley. Small pieces, very well made with an earthy vibe. This necklace was one of my favorites.

raeburn ink

More delicate details in the form of screen printed tees, bags and scarfs. She's not local (based in MA), but I am loving her new tees inspired by a recent trip to India.

33 Stewart Avenue

This guy takes great photos and turns it into even cooler art. I'd love to have one of these pieces in our apartment. Especially this one above. Check his website for large pieces not listed in the online store.

Featured on The Selby: Lyndsay & Fitzhugh at Home in Brooklyn

2010-08-03T18:30:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I visited The Selby but I stumbled back today thanks for the NY Times article and slideshow of recently featured homes, which features this quote from Todd Selby himself on the type of people he will feature, 'There’s two requirements...the person has to be interesting, and the space has to be interesting. I’m not interested in someone who’s just rich and boring or paid some interior designer to make this crazy house."

Well, this home happens to be lived in by not one but two interior designers and it shows. It's just stunning and they have the most adorable little puppy too - follow the link to The Selby for lots more!

Renegade Craft Fair SF!

2010-07-30T12:00:00.000-07:00

Missed this event last year but I definitely plan on being at Fort Mason Center this weekend.

Locals vs. Tourists Photography Maps

2010-07-30T11:33:00.000-07:00

Cool project put together by Eric Fischer of city maps dotted with photos geotagged by locals (shown in blue) and tourists (shown in red). Really interesting to see where the colors congregate. I think for the San Francisco map above his algorithm seems very accurate with most tourist photos centered around the Embarcadero, Golden Gate Bridge and Chinatown. Click through to his Flickr page to see many many more.

Weekend Soundtrack

2010-07-30T08:05:00.000-07:00

When U Love Somebody by Fruit Bats

This song was featured on the Youth in Revolt soundtrack which we watched last Friday night. It was a cute-at-times but really twisted indie with Michael Cera in it. I totally would have had a crush on him back in high school. No official video for this song and only a few fan versions exist online. None of which I deemed good enough to feature here.

Cold War, by The Morning Benders

Fun little tune, I'll be listening to this while running errands all weekend.

Food Porn for Real

2010-07-29T16:21:00.000-07:00

Cooking Dinner Vol. I from William Hereford on Vimeo.

Found this video via NPR's The Picture Show blog today and boy is it amazing! NPR asks, is this the future of food blogging? And you want my opinion? It's beautifully shot and has a "cooking as poetry" feel but it's not groundbreaking in the sense of changing food blogging altogether.

Sites like Chow.com have been making cooking video's and how-to's for some time. The difference between Chow videos and William Hereford's shown here is that his has more style and less chatter. William's video overlays pretty typography with what you need to know instead of telling you and I feel it's much more effective and enjoyable to watch. On William's blog he says it's just an experiment for now but with all the buzz around this one video, I'm hopeful there will be more.

Roasted Asparagus Crostini with Sweet Red Pepper Topping

2010-07-28T08:30:00.000-07:00

Roasted Asparagus Crostini with Sweet Red Pepper Topping

1 french baguette

1 bunch fresh asparagus, look for uniformly thin spears

1 small log chèvre, plain or herbed

1 jar marinated sweet red peppers

1/4 teaspoon white pepper

1/2 teaspoon white sugar

honey

Sweet Red Pepper Topping

1. Place marinated peppers in a blender with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, white pepper, sugar and a dash of honey

2. Blend until smooth and season to taste, let sit to allow flavor to develop

Roasted Asparagus Crostini

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees

2. Slice baguette into thin rounds

3. Using a basting brush, top baguette rounds with olive oil and lightly salt

4. Place on baking sheet in one layer and cook until golden, set aside

5. Rinse asparagus and snap off tough ends, line up on a baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.

6. Use basting brush to cover asparagus with olive oil. Use about 1/4 cup.

7. Roast asparagus in the oven for about 10 minutes, checking midway for tenderness. Remove asparagus from oven when it has beautiful green color and can be pierced gently with a fork.

8. Once cooled but still warm, cut asparagus into about 1 1/2 inch pieces keeping like piece together (ends vs. tips)

9. Spread goat cheese on baguette rounds and top neatly with asparagus pieces

10. Arrange on a platter and top with sweet pepper sauce immediately before serving

Rare Photos of Famous People

2010-07-26T20:30:00.000-07:00

Stumbled across this intriguing catalogue of rare photos of famous people today. I love how they capture off the cuff, private moments taken in the time before TMZ. Follow the link for many, many more.

Elizabeth Taylor

Hunter S. Thompson

Audrey Hepburn

Simple Summer Smoothie

2010-07-25T17:31:00.001-07:00

I don't think a smoothie recipe can get any easier than this! Frozen fruit is key to smoothie making, it cuts the prep time down to nothing and there is no need for ice which means more flavor and yumminess.

Simple Summer Smoothie

1 cup frozen fruit mix

(my favorite is Whole Foods strawberry, banana & mango mix)

1/2 cup vanilla soy milk

1 ripe plumcot, pit and skin removed

1. Blend frozen fruit and soy milk until fruit is no longer in chunks

2. Add chopped plumcot and blend until smooth

3. enjoy!

*serves one

Weekend Soundtrack

2010-07-23T08:02:00.000-07:00

Acoustic version of my fav Grace Potter & the Nocturnals song.

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals "Paris" from Grace Potter and the Nocturnals on Vimeo.

Weekend Soundtrack

2010-07-16T08:06:00.000-07:00

As part of my effort to start posting more regularly, I'm going to begin turning out some weekly scheduled posts. Starting with my weekend soundtrack. New or old, terrible or great....I'm going to start sharing whatever I'm into at the moment. This is for fun and I'm not going to be taking it very seriously. So no shaming me for my love of infectious pop music. I can be indie too, but only when I feel like it.

If you don't like what I share, then leave a comment with a track that's much better. Sharing is caring.

Grace Potter & the Nocturnals "Tiny Light" from Logan Hefflefinger on Vimeo.

Sara Bareilles - King of Anything - (Oficial) from Lizbeth160 on Vimeo.

I love stripes.

2010-07-15T18:08:00.000-07:00

I especially love the use of the striped fabric hung at the Terrain event (top photo) the others are just gorgeous but since I'm currently renting I doubt I'll be painting any striped walls soon. A girl can dream!

Event at Terrain

Via Bloig, Via Abby Goes Design Scouting

Via Domino

Love my Campers

2010-07-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

I bought my first pair of Campers about a month ago and I think I'm in love. They are the most comfortable heels I have ever worn and I can't get enough of them! I tried them on at Nordstrom in downtown SF and immediately, I knew I had to have them. I can literally wear them all day at work and for a night out after. A few days ago we went on a drinks with friends turned midnight Chinese dinner bender and I wore them from 8am to 1am, no complaints. I think they go with everything.

Here's my current summer go to outfit. It's freezing in San Francisco about now so I'll be waiting until August to break out the shorts...

Summer Plaid by allijean featuring J Crew

Totally Addicting: Go Try it On!

2010-07-09T12:00:00.000-07:00

This is bad, this is "I've spent too much time on a stupid website why am I wasting my life on this crap?" bad.

The New York Times wrote about this trend yesterday, sites were people upload photos of themselves in outfits and users rate the outfits and leave comments, Hot or Not style. I can see how it's useful for people, sometimes you just need a non-biased honest opinion about how you look. You know, from someone who doesn't risk chancing a bad frown or hormone induced rampage of tears. But oh my god, how I could waste HOURS on this website. Go and try it on for size, you'll know what I mean.

Terrain Online Shop

2010-07-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Stumbled upon a lovely little online store called Terrain today via the Ruffled blog. Terrain is a charming home and garden store and the 4th brand by Urban Outfitters, Inc. It's most similar to Anthropologie with a focus on rustic farmhouse and garden inspired decor, aromatherapy and gifts. I wish I would have found it before Mother's Day!

Here are my favorite picnic-inspired Terrain items for this summer:

From top left: multi-purpose blanket, sweet clover honey, rose petal honey, wooden knifes, wooden forks, wooden spoons, crushed mint table candles, folding cutting board, glass milk bottle

Built by Wendy Sale!

2010-07-08T13:12:00.000-07:00

I've never bought anything from Built by Wendy (at full price, they are a little much for me) but I love their simple, california chic clothing so I was super excited to find out from Refinery 29 today that they are having a sale!

Below are some of my picks. Unfortunately, the dress I really want is not available in my size but all the best luck to you!

Arles Market Dress

was $288, now $144

Bowl of Fruit Tee

was $70, now $35

Degas Dot Blouse

was $158, now $110.60

Quick Listen

2010-07-07T15:47:00.000-07:00

Just because..... I stumbled along this photo today and posted about Sofia earlier. I wonder if she was sampling Jason's Coconut Records album.

Kitsune Noir Mixcasts

2010-07-07T12:05:00.000-07:00

I recently rediscovered the Kitsune Noir Mixcasts and they are now on my permanent work music rotation. LA-based creative Bobby Soloman jam packs his mixcasts with new music and lesser known tracks from your favorite indie artists and also pairs them with stunning visual art that makes your ipod look pretty while you listen.

Sofia's "Somewhere"

2010-07-07T10:46:00.000-07:00

Newly released trailer for Somewhere, Sofia Coppola's latest project.

Love the vibe of her films - The Virgin Suicides is my favorite.

Domino Re-purposed

2010-07-02T10:39:00.000-07:00

There has been a lot of excitement in the blogosphere the last few days over the announcement that old Domino.com content is being added to the recently remodeled homepage of Brides.com.

While I understand that having a new home for this content online allows Domino to have a more lasting presence online, the publication is still no more and the old content is just that - old and stale. Not that I don’t myself have loads of Domino screenshots and belong to the Flickr group that archives domino shots but I see it as a half-@#! way for Conde Nast to attempt to profit in the form of page hits from a much-beloved magazine that they closed down.

And now let’s continue on to our regularly scheduled programming. I know I’ve ignored this blog for a while but I plan on visiting and sharing a bit more often now.

Urban Outfitters Bike Shop

2010-05-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

Did you know that Urban Outfitters has an online bike shop? Custom build your own fixie for about $399 before shipping. Very cool. But can I get up the hill to my apartment with only one speed?

My current build.

Ace Hotel Palm Springs

2010-05-11T12:09:00.000-07:00

photos via Ace Hotel blog

I've been dreaming of a quick getaway at the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs since it opened over a year ago. Imagine my delight when I got my Jetsetter email today (have you heard of Jetsetter? it's a whole other post!) featuring rooms at the Ace Hotel on sale in two days! Help! I NEED this. I need to plan a trip pronto! I'm thinking for my August birthday, but worrying if the weather will be insufferable then...

Sondre Lerche singing poolside a couple weeks ago.

sondre lerche performing ballad of el goodo at the Ace Hotel Palm Springs from Ace Hotel on Vimeo.

dream prom dress

2010-05-07T15:18:00.000-07:00

some rich girl needs to snag this dress off etsy riiiiiight now. it's hot, real hot. and she will definitely avoid the awkward matching prom dress issue.

West Elm Corp. Office - Sneak Peak

2010-04-24T09:26:00.000-07:00

Have you flipped through the new issue of Lonny Magazine? I loved that this issue mixed things up a bit with a few new features including a soup recipe from Kate Lee (Joel..) and more importantly a sneak peek into West Elm's corporate offices located in Brooklyn, NY. So inspiring! And can I just say that if West Elm's future products reflect these inspiration boards, consider me sold!

View Lonny Magazine here, the West Elm feature starts on page 60.

Sessùn Spring Collection

2010-04-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

Dying for it to be sunny springtime outside my door but while it's not, I'm content to lose myself in photos of French line Sessùn's Spring 2010 collection. I have only been able to find a few places to purchase Sessùn online so far: here, here and here. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to track down any of the new pieces I really want.

Guess I'll have to save for a trip to Paris to visit one of their three stores in person :)

Ming Makes Cupcakes

2010-04-22T11:56:00.001-07:00

Ming Makes Cupcakes is written by a Harvard grad student and features cupcakes, cookie and savory recipes accompanied by mouthwatering photos that make you want to lick your monitor. Here are a few going straight to my "need to bake these asap" list. Found today via Cup of Joe.

Flourless Beet Chocolate with Whipped Cream

Sour Cream Apricot with Toasted Almonds and Mascarpone

Vanilla with Lemon Filling and Meringue Frosting

Wedding Moodboard: Homegrown Pink

2010-04-14T08:05:00.000-07:00

One of my most darling friends got engaged on Friday and although we haven't even had a chance to chat on the phone yet, I couldn't be more thrilled for her! Here is a wedding moodboard I made a few weeks ago (but neglected to post with) a county-style, romantic bride in mind.

Tubtime

2010-04-09T08:07:00.000-07:00

This Dr. Seuss shower curtain is awesome and fun.

Future Allison with kids needs to have this.

Your future self can get it at Pottery Barn Kids!

The Girl with the Glasses Show

2010-04-08T09:14:00.001-07:00

Talk about Thursday morning fun! Stumbled upon this charming video by Brooke White (singer/songwriter and American Idol Alum) and Summer Bellessa (model and editor of ELIZA Magazine) who have joined forces to create "The Girls With Glasses Show." Just read their description of the show and I'm sure you will want to tune in as much as I do!

" The Girls with Glasses Show was founded for every woman who wants to be entertained while also being informed and enlightened – it’s the smart girl talk show. Brooke White and Summer Bellessa bring together humor, intelligent insight and heart to fashion, entertainment, art and music in this part-hipster and part-variety talk show – and yes, they both do wear glasses in real life”

And now onto the video for the theme song they co-wrote and created for the show - it's certain to make you smile and feel lucky to be a girl.

I Am A Girl - The Girls With Glasses Theme Song from The Girls With Glasses on Vimeo.

Via Black Eiffel

Toast

2010-04-08T08:36:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Toast? They are essentially a British Anthropologie and I've been swooning over their online catalogue for about a year now. Currently wishing my life looked like this...

Barn Wedding

2010-04-07T10:45:00.000-07:00

Whoa! I honestly gasped when I saw this image of a barn wedding in Sundance, Utah. It's sophisticated, country and rustic all at once. Promptly go to Green Wedding Shoes for more!

By Ben Blood, Via Green Wedding Shoes

Pancakes for Easter

2010-04-04T07:49:00.000-07:00

Heading over to my mom's house soon for our annual mimosa brunch but I couldn't help sharing this gorgeous pancake breakfast tablescape first by Design*Sponge with Jesse from Our Labor of Love and Ashley of The Flashdance. And saving this for future inspiration!

Happy Easter! I hope you have a day filled with family, friends and jelly beans!

Design*Sponge, Via Once Wed

Perfect Treehouse

2010-04-02T08:04:00.000-07:00

I imagine this built in Kauai or Costa Rica. How lovely to sit and read books or listen to vinyl in the treehouse....

romulo fialdini via audrey road

Interview: Jenna Lyons of J.Crew

2010-03-30T13:15:00.000-07:00

Lucky Magazine interviewed Jenna Lyons about her shopping style and since I'm obsessed with everything J.Crew lately (because they are KILLING IT!). I totally ate it up. Enjoy!

Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution

2010-03-29T20:13:00.001-07:00

Really enjoying this new series, Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution. Jamie Oliver, who if you recall used to be called the "Naked Chef" recently won the TED prize and his plan is to revolutionize the way we eat and feed our children in America (he's British). This is a cause near and dear to my heart so when I heard he had a new TV show, I was game. So far, I'm enjoying it. I might update this post at a later date once I've had a chance to digest the series.

Below is Jamie's TED Prize Plan and if you want to sign the petition to join the food revolution in America's schools (like me!), click here.

The Plan

Set up an organization to create a popular movement that will inspire people to change the way they eat. The movement will do this by establishing a network of community kitchens; launching a travelling food theater that will teach kids practical food and cooking skills in an entertaining way and provide basic training for parents and professionals; and bringing millions of people together through an online community to drive the fight against obesity. The grassroots movement must also challenge corporate America to support meaningful programs that will change the culture of junk food.

gone tribal.

2010-03-29T12:15:00.000-07:00

spotted: lots of fun tribal inspired accessories for this spring/summer

Jeffery Campbell Tier (Red Madras), $79

Multicolor Tribal Scarf, $48

ASOS Tribal Paint Print Bikini, $40

Broken Bells

2010-03-25T14:02:00.000-07:00

I've been bored musically for over a year now. I've finally found some new music that I'm not ashamed of. Broken Bells being one of them - the collaboration from The Shin's frontman James Mercer and Danger Mouse is on repeat. Here is their video for "The High Road" but this album is much better when listened to whole.

living room as pirate ship

2010-03-25T13:56:00.000-07:00

and there you go.

Feelgood List

2010-03-09T14:00:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon Up Up Creative's Feelgood List on Etsy and I love love love this idea! It's customizable meaning you can have her add your own categories of feelgood things to do! And to make it even better you get the .pdf file so you have endless copies and can use this for days, weeks, months and years to come!

I'm thinking about making the plunge, we all need daily reminders to care for ourselves and do the things that make us happy. What would be on your feelgood list?

Buy it here

Inspiring Me

2010-03-09T11:37:00.000-08:00

It's just a cupcake liner. But it kick's ass and if I were to get married right now, at this minute...it would be the complete and total inspiration for my wedding.

Inspiration board to come....

Vintage(?) Hotness

2010-03-03T12:31:00.000-08:00

This bed is rocking my world and I want it bad. Spotted on UrbanOutfitters, it was styled to sell the duvet cover that's just eh.... The bed though? Gimme.

This would also be perfect in a little girls room in a twin size - my brain is running wild with inspiration.

Help Haiti Rise

2010-01-30T14:46:00.000-08:00

love this! Fretto prints designed this inspiring tee and is donating 100% of the proceeds to Partners In Health in Haiti. Shirts are only $15/each and we all know how much Haiti needs our help right now.

go here to buy your shirt:

go here to read more about Partners in Health

found via Black*Eiffel

Vintage Downloadable Valentines Day Card!

2010-01-29T12:22:00.001-08:00

I recently discovered Ruffled, an adorable wedding blog that has a download of the week post with great finds for your home, office, correspondence, anything! This was posted last week but I just found it now, and adorable vintage inspired Valentine's Day card! Check out Ruffled for some fabulous wedding inspiration and get your free download here.

They had a peacock at their wedding

2010-01-29T12:17:00.001-08:00

How chic is that?

Etsy Finds

2010-01-19T21:56:00.000-08:00

2 ways leather saddle bag by however, $78

I'm thinking urban life, day trips or (maybe) even a SLR-camera bag

procelain and feathers by foudreblanche, $16

I've been eyeing this one for weeks!
I envision it with a boyfriend blazer and a casual v-neck tee.

pretty cheers by vantiani, $15

Perfect for my frame photo/art wall in the dining room

succulent butter cream cup by greenwaredesign, $35

A sweet addition to your desk or a sunny spot at home.

Classic Comfort Food: Spaghetti & Meatballs

2010-01-19T21:10:00.000-08:00

I've been making this turkey meatball recipe for the past four years. Brandon mentioned that I haven't made it in a while and I thought I'd be the perfect meal for our stormy week. I have trouble eating ground beef so I've always made these using ground turkey, not only is it healthier but I think they turn out just as moist and flavorful. Adapted from Ina Garten's recipe in Barefoot Contessa Family Style (a great cookbook with reliable comfort food recipes). The portions below are enough to serve four people, I usually freeze half in some sauce for another night.

Italian Turkey Meatballs
Serves 4 people

1 pound ground turkey
¾ cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 extra-large egg, beaten (only use half the beaten egg)
Olive oil

Place everything but the olive oil in a large bowl with ½ cup warm water. Stir until just combined until using a wide spoon then use your hands to finish mixing until thoroughly moist. Lightly form the mixture into 1 ½-inch meatballs. You will have roughly 18-20 meatballs.

Preheat the oven at 350 degrees and coat a cookie sheet with olive oil spray. Heat a skillet over medium high heat with two tablespoons of olive oil. Place half the formed meatballs in the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Gently turn the meatballs over while cooking to ensure even browning and to help them keep their round shape. Spread cooked meatballs out on the cookie sheet, then cook the remaining half.

Once all the meatballs are browned, cook in the oven for 25 minutes or until cooked through. When serving this with spaghetti I use a canned sauce because I'm 1. too lazy to make my own and 2. never liked any of the homemade tomato sauces I've attempted. I start heating the sauce on low when I put the meatballs in the oven.

When the meatballs are done, add them to the warmed sauce and cook for at least five minutes then serve. If freezing, reserve some sauce to freeze the meatballs in. I've found this keeps them moist when reheating.

Perfect for Spring

2010-01-19T13:54:00.000-08:00

Silk crepe de Chine printed dress, $330

Would LOVE to splurge on this Tucker dress for spring! It's pricey but all I really need is a good excuse.

Bloglovin' test

2010-01-19T13:21:00.000-08:00

Follow my blog with bloglovin

Rainy Day Recipe: White Wine Coq au Vin

2010-01-18T20:18:00.000-08:00

White Wine Coq au Vin

via Sunset Magazine

Ingredients

4 1/2 tablespoons flour

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided

1 teaspoon herbes de Provence

4 slices bacon (1/4 lb.), chopped

1 1/2 pounds boned, skinned chicken thighs

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 1/2 cups peeled baby carrots

3 stalks celery

1 medium onion

1 1/3 cups Chardonnay

2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

1/2 cup lightly packed flat-leaf parsley sprigs

1/4 cup lightly packed fresh tarragon sprigs

Preparation

1. In a plastic bag, shake flour with 1/2 tsp. salt, 1/4 tsp. pepper, and the herbes de Provence; set aside.

2. In a 5- to 6-qt. pan over medium-high heat, brown bacon, stirring occasionally, 6 to 7 minutes. Meanwhile, cut chicken into 1-in. chunks, then shake half at a time in flour to coat.

2010 List

2010-01-03T05:57:00.001-08:00

1. See more of the beautiful state that is California

a. take that Yosemite trip

b. camping in Kirby Cove

c. weekend in Palm Springs. stay here.

d. winter snowshoeing to the cabin in Tahoe

e. ensalen hot springs

f. big sur camping

2. Take more photos. Improve my photography skills and start using all camera gear that has been gifted to me. step 1: be quick about it and sign up for one of her classes

3. blog more - ha!

4. buy a diana camera

5. go to D.C.!

6. travel abroad again

7. make a photo book

8. more calls to friends

9. run another half marathon, maybe two!

10. turn 27 (easy)

11. make cheese

12. pick berries, make and can jam

13. baby my herb garden

14. open an etsy store

15. make a Julia Child recipe

16. eat more vegetarian meals

17. volunteer again

18. eat more fruit daily

19. land a new job

20. more sweet surprises for Brandon

21. more tea, less coffee

22. make pickles! homemade jam!

2009 in Review

2010-01-01T16:07:00.000-08:00

A quick look back at 2009, to see how far we've come.

JANUARY

Figured out the secret to great enchiladas

Found a ladybug

Hiked Pt. Reyes

FEBRUARY

Went to SEATTLE! Visited a great friend.

and ate at Thai Tom's - the place I first discovered my love Thai food

MARCH

Date night to Wicked

APRIL

Date-anniversary trip to Sonoma

MAY

Ran my first half-marathon!!! Amazing!

JUNE

Saw my little brother graduate high school

JULY

Went on a road trip

Had my first Animal Style burger at In & Out, never going back to regular...

Camped in the Redwoods

Saw crazy amazing/dangerous fireworks on the beach

Found the famous Paul Bunyan statue - he talks!

AUGUST

Went to AUSTIN, spent time with great friends & saw Lauren marry

Discovered Torchy's Tacos (Austin)

Joined a CSA, then quit it 4 weeks later...

Attended the first ever SF Street Food Fest

Turned 26! Holy moly....

SEPTEMBER

Escaped to Tahoe

OCTOBER

Broke in my new pot and make my first ever gumbo

Sailed the bay with Bree on board!

Went to Denver

NOVEMBER

Cooked my first pot roast

Made Thanksgiving flower arrangements

Relaxed with my family

DECEMBER

Sent last year's Christmas cards & threw a Christmas Party - no photos, too wild.

Trimmed our adorable little tree

Went back to Texas for Christmas, hung out with this guy

Made our first turkey

And loved each other more than ever.

Happy New Year

2009-12-30T17:57:00.001-08:00

For Simone.

2009-11-21T09:58:00.000-08:00

Ok, Brandon HATES the name Simone. But I think it's the perfect name for my future daughter. Named after Nina Simone no less, do you know her? If not, you must educate yourself. Mood Indigo is one of my very favorite song of hers.

Anyways, this fabulous future daughter of mine would be a show stopper in this frock. It's outrageous (I know) but wouldn't it be lovely? The kind of thing a little girl would cherish and PERFECT for a holiday party.

Buy from Sweet Plume, on etsy

And as for your Nina Simone education? Start here:

Your Daily Moment of Zen

2009-11-19T13:49:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous sneak peak over at Design*Sponge this morning that made me gasp. French stylist Sandrine Place strikes a perfect balance of pretty and modern.

My favorite TOMS

2009-11-16T10:22:00.000-08:00

I've had the TOMS bug for a while, but since like the rest of America I've been tight with my money and trying to save more. I haven't had the occasion to spring for them yet. With Christmas coming up, they are not only a great give to give but also to receive. (hint, hint)

Aira Cordones

Caramel Corduroy

Vegan Charcoal

Weekend DIY

2009-09-25T13:08:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling a great need to CREATE this weekend. I'm bouncing back and forth between DIY projects for the home - maybe a terrarium or headboard (or maybe finally getting the Target Headboard I really want instead). Also, feeling a huge urge to BAKE!

Leaning towards the terrarium idea which popped back into my head after reading Design*Sponge's post on "found" terrariums. What a charming idea.

Here's my personal inspiration photo:

Thoughts for a good life

2009-09-21T11:55:00.000-07:00

I'm not a Lululemon consumer, I don't think I've set foot in one of their stores. I came across their "manifesto" on another blog (I honestly can't remember which one or I'd link you). And I've been thinking about it ever since. I really agree with some of the points here and I'm trying to incorporate some of this into my own life. I bolded the ones here that I will be focusing on in the months to come. Enjoy.

- Drink FRESH water and as much water as you can. Water flushes unwanted toxins from your body and keeps your brain sharp.
- A daily hit of athletic-induced endorphins gives you the power to make better decisions, helps you be at peace with yourself, and offsets stress.
- Do one thing a day that scares you.
- Listen, listen, listen, and then ask strategic questions.
- Write down your short and long-term GOALS four times a year. Two personal, two business and two health goals for the next 1, 5 and 10 years. Goal setting triggers your subconscious computer.
- Life is full of setbacks. Success is determined by how you handle setbacks.
- Your outlook on life is a direct reflection of how much you like yourself. (agreed, but this one scares me a little)
- That which matters the most should never give way to that which matters the least.
- Stress is related to 99% of all illness.
- Jealousy works the opposite way you want it to.
- The world is changing at such a rapid rate that waiting to implement changes will leave you 2 steps behind. DO IT NOW, DO IT NOW, DO IT NOW!
- Friends are more important than money.
- Breathe deeply and appreciate the moment. Living in the moment could be the meaning of life.
- Take various vitamins. You never know what small mineral can eliminate the bottleneck to everlasting health.
- Don’t trust that an old age pension will be sufficient.
- Visualize your eventual demise. It can have an amazing effect on how you live for the moment.
- The conscious brain can only hold one thought at a time. Choose a positive thought.
- Live near the ocean and inhale the pure salt air that flows over the water, Vancouver will do nicely. (side note: haha, yes!)
- Observe a plant before and after watering and relate these benefits to your body and brain.
- Practice yoga so you can remain active in physical sports as you age.
- Dance, sing, floss and travel.
- Children are the orgasm of life. Just like you did not know what an orgasm was before you had one, nature does not let you know how great children are until you have them.
- Successful people replace the words “wish”, “should” and “try” with “I will”.
- Creativity is maximized when you’re living in the moment.
- Nature wants us to be mediocre because we have a greater chance to survive and reproduce. Mediocre is as close to the bottom as it is to the top, and will give you a lousy life.
- lululemon athletica creates components for people to live longer, healthier and more fun lives. If we can produce products to keep people active and stress-free, we believe the world will become a much better place.
- Do not use cleaning chemicals on your kitchen counters. Someone will inevitably make a sandwich on your counter.
- SWEAT once a day to regenerate your skin.

old soul, new heart

2009-08-27T11:22:00.000-07:00

If these photos from old soul, new heart (a mother and daughter team!) don't make you want to wear a headband and rock red lipstick, then I don't know what will.

BoHo Classic

2009-08-26T15:05:00.000-07:00

Deborah Needleman says my style is bohemian classic. So today I start thinking...is she right? I really didn't know. I had never tried to "label" my style before now. I think this could be helpful in making design decisions faster and also be willing to take more risks, by embracing my style sense more. Cruising the interwebs for a while, looking for some inspiration until I realized that I should actually be looking in my own style portfolio. And look what I found.... I'm pretty sure she nailed me!

Am I right? Or totally off here?

1st Farm Fresh to You delivery

2009-08-24T13:13:00.000-07:00

Friday evening, there it was. Sitting on our counter just waiting for me to take a peek.

I was HIGHLY anticipating our first farm fresh delivery. For a couple reasons 1) no waking up on Saturday thinking about going to the farmer's market and how if I do go, I really should mobilize myself and should I walk or take my car, because then I'd have to find parking and....you get the picture. 2) to check out the freshness of our veggies, to double check that even though we have a Friday delivery they aren't the worst of the crop, etc.

I was happily surprised.

the box

the goodies

First recipe coming right up!

Etsy Finds: Home Decor

2009-08-21T12:41:00.000-07:00

Lot's of relaxed, vintage-vibe finds today on Etsy.

Vintage Woven Pendant Lamp

Jadite Charm Creamer and Sugar Bowl

Sassari Ikat Cushion - Check out the rest of her shop too - ton's more in fun prints, perfect to spruce up a boring couch (like mine)

Indoor/Outdoor Concrete Planter - And she lives in Alameda, holler East Bay girl!

ANNA, I want to be you.

2009-08-20T14:40:00.000-07:00

Great new trailer for "The September Issue" that promises to be a great, better than "The Devil Wears Prada" look into Vogue. She's just hot, hot, hot. And about her rep, whatever. She should roll with it because she exudes power - and those LOOKS! I'm practically made for the part.

Someday I will have a daughter...

2009-08-20T12:20:00.001-07:00

And when she turns three, I will transform her room into this magical world.

That is all.

I joined a CSA.

2009-08-18T11:22:00.000-07:00

Photo by if time exists, on Flickr.

Last night I finally did it! I joined a CSA (community supported agriculture) group.

Joining a CSA has been on my mind since I first got my own place last year and after reading "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle" I've been more inspired than ever to eat local, seasonal and organic produce. Not only will I be eating healthier but I'm looking forward to expanding the variety of produce I cook with. Can't wait for my first "what do I make with dandelions?" moment.

On top of all this, I was handed a promo code for $10 off my first box at REI.

I joined the Farm Fresh to You CSA for several reasons.
1. I can switch my service type or end my deliveries at any time, they also have a good account section on their website so I can postpone deliveries if I'm on vacation, etc.

2. Almost all the produce will come from Capay farm, 90 miles outside of SF. I wish it was a little closer, but it's greener than shipping produce from Mexico.

3. I can visit the farm. There are three farm tours left this year and I fully intend on checking it out for the Halloween or Winter farm tour.

I'll be sharing my weekly deliveries and corresponding recipes, can't wait for Friday!

Sunset Magazine, I'm learning to love you.

2009-08-18T11:08:00.000-07:00

Photo by monitorpop, found on Flickr.

I didn't realize until earlier this Spring that Sunset Magazine is published in the Bay Area. I thought it was based in Seattle. Regardless, I think it's pages capture the essence of everything I love about living on the west coast. Fresh, seasonal food, outdoor adventures and travel. Sometimes it's a little thin for the price in my eyes but luckily, their website is filled with great content.

Like this great article, on how to eat from the farmer's market. Which is perfect for me. Most weekends I walk through the market looking at all the beautiful produce but stick to only what I know I will be using. I think this is a great reference for anyone to use, after they found the most beautiful, in season whatever at the market. And since I joined the Farm Fresh to You CSA last night, I'll be using it a lot myself.

Dear HSN, You are wowing me!

2009-08-17T22:04:00.000-07:00

I've never bought a thing from the Home Shopping Network in my life, but they have a few home decor pieces right now that are really on the brain. And STEALS too!

I've been eying this Kilim Stripe Rug by the Nate Berkus line for two months now.

This gold serving bowl is metallic and sassy.

Moroccan table is sleek!

Julie & Julia

2009-08-10T10:21:00.000-07:00

I loved it. I laughed out loud. I almost cried. I caught myself drooling over the food endlessly. And if Le Creuset paid for product placement, they got their money's worth on me.

Added to my birthday list today. The beauty and perfection of their round french oven. So I can burn my own attempt at Julia's beef bourguignon!

I'm open to both flame (featured in the movie and below) and dijon. Because it looks so damn happy.

Deborah Needleman Says....

2009-08-10T10:15:00.000-07:00

Allison, you are a Bohemian Classic

You have a refined sensibility and bring a sense of history and tradition into your decor. You appreciate how symmetrical arrangements and beautiful, well-crafted pieces create a solid foundation to a room. But you like to shake up this restraint with objects and accessories that express your personality and your love of other cultures. When traveling, you seek out unique objects that reflect what you love, and you use them in a sophisticated way. You want people to feel comfortable in your home, and cozy chairs, ethnic fabrics, unique pieces, and even a little touch of quirk or humor give your house a laid-back, Bohemian flair.

You value creativity. You are stylish and fun loving, and can be an inspiration to others. You have a natural sense of drama, and you know you have to be willing to take risks—whether with colors, finishes, furniture choices, or ideas—for your home to stand out. Your home can be happy and lively and the place all of your friends want to be.

Putting Your Style to Work!
With your style and needs in mind, here are a few tips that will help you make your home a little happier.

1. Your Design Challenge: EXPERIMENT The last mile in decorating is the hardest, because that is when you really take the risk in expressing yourself. As with fashion or jewelry, one bold piece can set the tone, and the others complement the look. Don't be afraid to experiment, drag stuff around and make mistakes. Use what you're passionate about to inspire your home, whether it is a love for patterns, travel, gardening, family or the sea. Consider a collection of books, pictures or objects on your passion. Giving yourself parameters helps you choose things in keeping with your true style—which is precisely the point of HomeGoods StyleScope. But also think of colors, a country, a movie or words you love when you're shopping, so that you can check that these pieces match your unique sensibility before you bring them home.

2. Your Happy Place Think of your outdoor space, no matter how small, as rooms, and create distinct areas. A pair of chaises flanking a little side table makes a living room. A lantern hanging from a tree or pergola over a table and chairs makes a dining room. A cluster of potted plants on a patio can create a cozy nook, and a single urn or bench placed at the far end can draw your eye, making a space seem longer. Big lanterns with candles sitting on the ground create a sense of space and give beautiful light. Try out new ideas before you start shopping by taking a photo of your area and laying some tracing paper over the print to draw whatever you're planning first.

3. Be Party-Ready All the Time! Food: Devote space in your pantry or on a shelf for go-to party essentials: crackers, dip, chips, nuts—whatever you like to serve. Keep on hand a collection of attractive bowls and cocktail napkins, and you'll be able to set a spread—instantly!

Drink: The simplest and chicest thing is to have a drinks tray or table always set up. Include a mix of pretty glasses, an ice bucket, a lovely pitcher, and bottles of soda and water. When the bell rings, just add ice and limes.

Mood: Nice, flattering light makes us feel good. So nix the harsh, direct light from overhead fixtures in favor of the softer glow from floor and table lamps. Also, keep some votive candles and a couple of hurricane lanterns for setting around the room.

Scent: The first thing you notice about a home is how it smells. Use naturally fragrant cleaning products. If you find a scented candle or fresh potpourri you love, stock up on it. Any scent you like, whether perfume or linen spray, can be used on upholstery, bedding or just spritzed into the air.

Find out your style here!
http://www.homegoods.com/hghq_quiz.asp

And shout out to Jaime at I Suwanee for posting this.

Birthday Wishes.

2009-07-26T17:25:00.001-07:00

Less than a month to my birthday! Here are a few things I'm wishing for.

Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Earrings

Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau de Toilette Spray

more to come!

Coeur de Pirate

2009-07-23T16:15:00.001-07:00

Coeur de Pirate @ Théâtre Côté Cour, Paris | 25.03.2009
Originally uploaded by Rod | Le-hibOO.com

I don't speak French but I can't get enough this girl's voice singing along to her beautiful melodies. Perfect work music - for when I need to focus but my area is too silent. Bonus points for being Canadian.

Listen before buying here: http://www.myspace.com/coeurdepirate

Play Me, I'm Yours

2009-07-20T14:19:00.000-07:00

Why have I not heard about Play Me, I'm Yours until now? They've gone and placed pianos for public use all around London. How beautiful is that? I think this is an amazing project. Fill the city with light and music. Dance in the streets with your community.

Their website states:
"Who plays them and how long they remain is up to each community. The pianos act as sculptural, musical, blank canvases that become a reflection of the communities they are embedded into. Many pianos are personalized and decorated.

Questioning the ownership and rules of public space 'Play Me I'm yours' is a provocation, inviting the public to engage with, activate and take ownership of their urban environment."

A complete map of the piano's locations around London is here

Do you Baggu?

2009-07-16T09:49:00.000-07:00

I do! Last year when I (finally) moved out into my own place and had to learn to shop for my own groceries on a weekly basis I figured it was about time to invest in some reusable bags. I had my eye on Baggu for a while, and finally got myself a few. I love them to this day, my fav being a nautical white with blue stripes. I always feel like the coolest kid on the block when I use them and low and behold, their selection of prints and colors has exploded in the past year. I'll take one in each color please!

Get one and I guarantee you'll love them forever. Also spotted is their cute "News" section on the site that shows you the millions of ways to use them.

Let's save the world people!

Yes Please!

2009-07-16T09:47:00.000-07:00

Isn't this gorgeous? Made by hand in Portland by Sword + Fern. The best part is it's on sale..... I want it.

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle

2009-07-15T13:53:00.000-07:00

This book is great, it's great in the way that not only makes me laugh, teaches me little tidbits more about the U.S. industrialized agriculture system that I didn't already know and inspires me to be a better cook. It's also got me thinking a lot about eating locally and spending the extra dollar for those pretty cage-free brown eggs, over the extra large premium white ones. So this is the book, I had heard about it from many before then, my Mom read it and told me I must. And she was right. I'm not quite done yet but it's already left an impression on me.

Then I saw this pretty little quote today by Michael Pollan via Eat Make Read. And it totally sums it up.

Dinner Last Night: Pepin's Peanut-Crusted Fish with Swiss Chard

2009-07-14T15:20:00.000-07:00

Last night I made a Jacques Pépin recipe I found via Food & Wine while looking for a way to cook the beautiful rainbow swiss chard I found at the Oakland Farmers Market on Saturday with my Mom. This recipe was quick, healthy and good. Adapted to serve two people.

Ingredients
1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds
2 pounds Swiss chard, stems removed, leaves coarsely chopped
1/2 teaspoon Tabasco, plus more for serving
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1 large tomato, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup peanuts
1 teaspoon cornmeal
2 Halibut fillets
1 large egg white, lightly beaten
Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions
1. In a large deep skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of the oil. Add the garlic and sunflower seeds and cook over moderate heat, stirring frequently, until golden, about 2 minutes. Add the chard leaves, a handful at a time, and cook until just wilted before adding more. Continue cooking over moderate heat until tender, about 5 minutes. Add the 1/2 teaspoon of Tabasco and season with salt and pepper. Add the tomato to the chard and remove from the heat; keep warm.

2. In a food processor, pulse the peanuts and cornmeal until finely ground. Spread on a plate. Lightly brush the trout fillets with the egg white; season with salt. Dip the halibut in the ground peanuts, pressing lightly to help the coating adhere.

3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1/2 cup of oil until shimmering. Add the trout fillets and fry over moderately high heat, turning once, until golden and crisp, about 3 minutes per side.

4. Mound the chard on a large platter or plates. Top with the fish and serve with Tabasco and lemon wedges.

THEN, boyfriend gave me this adorable card because I've been down lately.

AND did the dishes (!!!)

whoa.

2009-07-14T13:25:00.000-07:00

Taking the joker look a little too far, are we?
via Refinery 29

Photos From Last Weekend.

2009-07-12T16:18:00.000-07:00

I am back.

2009-07-09T16:37:00.001-07:00

It's been a while, a long while. And I'm feeling ready to get back to this blog thing.

Over the last few months, I stopped reading a lot of blogs and as a result I think I got less and less inspired. But now I'm ready to give my blog and my life a makeover.

This photo struck me today as a place I'd like to take my design aesthetic. Bright, cheerful and sophisticated. It also happens to be from one of my favorite blogs, I Suwannee - written by the fabulous and inspiring Jaime Meres who is starting her own design business.

Forever 21 Finds!

2009-05-22T11:20:00.003-07:00

Some of it's crap, some of it's not. I hate buying it online but things fly so quickly off the shelf, I'm thinking of trying it again. Here are some awesome, snag it, grab it down finds for FRIDAY!

Asymmetric Chiffon Dress, $28

Side Swept Skirt, $25

Striped Button Down, $20

White Chiffon Top, $16

julia roitfeld at home in new york

2009-05-20T11:01:00.000-07:00

The daughter of fashion royalty, Julia Roitfeld let The Selby into her NYC apartment and even though there is a lack of full room shots, the photos of her stuff alone are enough to stir envy in any girl. Who else can get away with laying around on her bed in an all white full feather ensemble without looking the fool? Loving her lipstick too, the red trend is starting to rub off on me.

Check out The Selby for more photos other unique, interesting people: artists, art directors, fashion designers and actors.

Prep

2009-05-14T12:44:00.000-07:00

Stumbled onto BCBG.com today and found their sale section. Here are some finds that could be (and should be) staples in my closet. And your's ;) Also, all regularly prices dresses are 15% off right now. Go look!

Little Black Dress (with a preppy twist), $222

Sexy heels for ladies who lunch, $157

Perfect Color for Summer Dress, $180

Fun for Work Skirt, $89

Weekend Wool Jacket, $179

Feeling inspired again.

2009-05-13T14:01:00.000-07:00

Over the past week, I found myself in mourning again for Domino. Boyfriend and I will walk past a little nook in the lobby of our building where the magazines go and I will say "remember that magazine I used to love, named Domino?" then I make my sad face. So boyfriend went to Chronicle Books the other day and comes home with an Apartment Therapy book for me. A gift wrapped in paper. I love this man. So, I look through it and feel semi-inspired. I like a couple of the spaces. Then take a glace at my Domino book on the shelf and say, it's just not as great. But really, enough about Domino, right? It's gone. WELL, then I go to Design Sponge and what do I see?? A sneak peak of Olga Naiman's apartment, who used to be a stylist for Domino. And I tell ya, last night when I couldn't sleep because of the tiny cup of coffee I had, all I could think about where these photos. For the rest click here: http://www.designspongeonline.com/2009/05/sneak-peek-olga-naiman.html

Hello Mister.

2009-05-11T15:08:00.000-07:00

Aren't you looking fine today? This little guy seems perfect for barbecues in backyards that aren't quite yours. Like that little patch of dirt behind my building that I climb down the fire escape to get to..... yes, it would look quite cute there :)

$98 at my favorite store, Anthropologie

Cupcake Cups!

2009-04-01T15:19:00.000-07:00

I've been looking everywhere for cute cupcake baking cups and today I found a great source at www.bakeitpretty.com. Looks affordable too! I could go wild on this site, but then I wouldn't have any room in my kitchen for "real" food.

Aren't they darling?

Wardrobe Experiment

2009-03-25T17:52:00.000-07:00

It's been beautiful here in SF the last couple of days and this brilliant sunshine is expected to stay. This has made me want to wear dresses and skirts but I've come to realize that I just don't have many that I like. I don't buy dresses unless I have an occasion to wear one. Like Friday, for Wicked (even though I have no idea what I'll wear yet). Since I joined my current company more than a year ago, I've really taken to the "wear jeans everyday and don't twice about it" ideology. But you know what? I'm a woman, in her 20's! I should be having fun with my wardrobe and not doing the pair this boring shirt with those jeans I wear everyday thing.

And since I read this article in Glamour: Change Your Life in 30 Days, I've felt more inspired than ever to make change by starting with a short-term 30 days goal. So this my idea, wear nothing but skirts and dresses to work for a month. Jeans, sweats, whatever allowed on the weekends. But the problem is that I need to make the plunge and stock up a bit before I do this. Below are candidates. I'm in desperate need of feedback so leave comments!!!

Sara Dress

Ecote Poplin Printed Frock Dress

Silence & Noise Captain Dress

Big Weekend...sigh.

2009-03-23T15:49:00.000-07:00

Today is one of those Mondays when I feel slightly more exhausted than I did on Friday. Brandon and I were pretty non-stop this weekend. We volunteered at a local park cleanup in San Francisco for 5 hours on Saturday then stopped by Amoeba Records in the Haight to listen to some new CDs and purchase a record. That was followed my long showers and an afternoon nap. Sunday we went to Ikea, West Elm, the Crate and Barrel Outlet and CB3 - stopping only for a taco break. I did some slight financial damage but also managed to (finally) get a coffee table (less spilled drinks please!), dining table, two chairs, a side table, a rug, new duvet AND some other odd and ends. I'm thinking of it as my own little stimulus package. After all the lifting, unpacked, assembling, getting rid of giant boxes maddness, we settled down for a big slice of peach upside down cake and tried not to fall asleep at 9:30pm.

And I found a rug at Ikea that I like even more than the one I went there to get. I really want to add it into our mix in the living room.

It's called the KLINTEBY.

Carine Roitfeld: Revealed

2009-03-21T18:05:00.000-07:00

Carine Roitfeld, the editor of French Vogue is currently being profiled on CNN's Revealed Series and I've really enjoyed watching it over the last few days. Just got to Part III today as I had to wait until the weekend to have some free time. I'm really crushing on her. I love how open, thoughtful and honest see seems in contract to Anna.

Part I (below) is the best, III is interesting since she addresses the "moving to American Vogue" rumors. You can find the remaining parts here.

Happy Friday!

2009-03-20T14:28:00.000-07:00

A french Dior commercial shot by Sofia Coppola (who I adore) is her vision of a perfect day in Paris. I have to saw I could pretty much agree!

It's also a cute video to share with you, my lovely friends in welcoming the first day of Spring!

Missing Long Hair.

2009-03-19T14:34:00.000-07:00

I've been feeling "blah" this week. I haven't been sticking to my half-marathon training program, staying up too late, getting up too early and eating things that are really really bad for me like crazy, doritos, soy ice cream, thin mints, peanut m&m's. Seriously. I'm going to explode. And it's not making me a happy camper.

On top of that, I miss my long hair more than anything now days and I even googled how to make your hair grow faster the other day. But in the end, seems you can't do much. I already knew that. I haven't been posting as much lately. But on a day where I'm missing my longer hair days, these photos was like a knife in me.

dramatic, i know.

From Elle UK September 2007

Boyfriend Blazer Round-Up

2009-03-16T13:55:00.000-07:00

Here is the deal: Brandon and I are going to see Wicked in two weeks and I want to put a little effort into my look for the night. Which means I need to start now. I'm deciding between a dress or boyfriend blazer, sleek menswear look. Today I'm feeling the later so here is my round-up of good boyfriend blazer buys, all at or around $100.

Aqua Boyfriend Jacket with Stripe Cuffs, $88

Kensie Boyfriend Blazer, $108

Victoria's Secret Boyfriend Blazer, $88

Marimekko Favorites

2009-03-14T10:55:00.000-07:00

I'm really feeling brights today. I just can't wait for summer to come around again and these new Marimekko prints would give any room in my apartment a much needed punch of color.

Taikamylly Throw Pillow, $34

Sirkku Tablecloth, $120

Kaarna Galsses Case, $19

Stripes!

2009-03-14T10:07:00.000-07:00

I have a love affair with striped rugs. Just look at all the rooms below! See how versatile they are? Preppy, cheerful, crisp, playful, chic STRIPES. I can envision every room in my apartment with a striped rug and I think that's a dangerous thing. Can you imagine? I'd have to fight off comparisons to the fruit striped gum mascot.

This first photo is my absolute favorite. I'm thinking about going for a re-creation here.