Birchbox Review | SEPTEMBER

Posted in Beauty by C.

Birchbox September ATG FINAL

September’s Birchbox ranks as one of my all-time favorites. I don’t really have a bad thing to say….well, maybe a little thing… or two. Let’s break it down!

#1. Macadamia Professional Healing Oil Spray | Coincidentally, about a week before this product arrived, I remember looking at myself in the mirror and flat out saying out loud (yes, I talk to myself…and often), “I wish I could just add a lightweight spritz of oil to my hair right now, to give it just a hint of shine and moisture in-between shampoo sessions.” Of course, I already have an oil product that I use religiously for this purpose, but it involves distributing product the old-fashioned way: pouring a gooey substance into your hands, rubbing them together, and then applying to the hair. I was in the mood for something that I could just grab, spray, comb through and be out! Sometimes the Birchbox Gods, or rather Goddesses, hear your cry. This Macadamia Professional Healing Oil Spray satisfies all your hair moisturizing needs. It’s light, instantly gives your hair sheen, smells heavenly, requires no contact with gooey substances, and works great on wet or dry strands. It also didn’t hurt that someone walked over to me one day and said my hair looked fantastic! Outside of my stellar hair-dressing skills (I’m no José Eber but I do well), I’m giving this product part credit in keeping my hair happy and healthy as of late. I’m in LOVE. This will definitely become apart of my routine full-time. The great news is that it’s a steal on Amazon for twice the size.

Overall: It’s a do. Repeat: It’s a DO. Third time’s a charm: DO IT!

#2. TEMPTU S/B Highlighter | I like make-up as much as the next girl, but unless I’m going to work or going out somewhere special, I don’t feel the need to have a full face of make-up on. And even then, I keep things pretty standard: a little concealer for under the eyes, foundation, mascara, and if I’m feeling especially in the mood, some blush on the cheeks. The point being that I’ve never used a highlighter. Thanks to Birchbox, I got my first taste using this “Champagne Shimmer” highlighter from Temptu, who I learned is also leading the at-home make-up airbrushing revolution (and now I kinda want one). While I don’t think a highlighter is an absolute necessity (because this becomes yet ANOTHER expense), I can certainly see how incorporating a good highlighter magically gives your skin a more polished, glowing look after you’ve applied your basics. I especially loved the effect you get when mixing the highlighter with your foundation for an all over radiant shimmer (a tip I learned from a fellow Birchboxer). Since I’m new to highlighters, I want to experiment with different shades and brands, but this one from Temptu is a great start. It’s seriously has me considering the idea of adding highlighters to my routine.

Overall: A do.

#3. Yu-Be Moisturizing Skin Cream | Rumor has it that this has been Japan’s top-selling moisturizer for over 50 years…unfortunately, this would be the product where I have that aforementioned bad thing to say. While I appreciated this product’s aim – moisturizing everything from my heels to my lips (somehow that sounds weird as I type that, but that’s what this stuff does!), I couldn’t get past the Vicks Vapor Rub smell. I felt like I should be in bed with a cold just begging be to able to smell something, anything, so that I knew my clogged sinuses were only temporary and that relief was on the way. (In that moment, even catching a whiff of Vick’s is a godsend). I liked the product, but couldn’t get over the smell or the texture. It really just seems to be a high-end version of Vaseline if you ask me.

Overall: Eh.

#4. Laura Mercier Full Blown Volume Supreme Mascara | If you knew me, or read any of my beauty-related posts over the last year, you know that I’m loyal to Benefit’s They’re Real! Mascara. I’ve said it over, and over, and over….and over, again. I’m very happy in the mascara area at the moment, but if I were on the prowl for a new find, this gem from Laura Mercier might be a serious contender. It goes on smooth, welcomes multiple applications with ease to create volume-filled lashes to your liking that don’t clump, and it doesn’t flake. Here’s where my second bad thing to say comes into play: I’ve gotten so use to the ease and clean application with Benefit’s wand (I hardly ever have to use a Q-Tip afterward), that I have a hard time using the more traditional “bushy” mascara wands that get product all over the eyelid (yuck!). Otherwise, this is a great mascara if you want a more natural look. If you want intense volume and va-va-voom lashes, They’re Real! is your friend.

Overall: A do, but I’m still sticking with They’re Real! until they stop making the stuff. Best mascara. Ever.

#5. Dr. Brandt Pores No More Vacuum Cleaner | Luckily, I don’t really have much pore-related drama in my life. I may get a blemish here or there every so often, but I don’t personally battle blackheads or have large pores or anything. My skin concerns are almost always related to hydration and seeking a more even complexion (because on the rare occasion I do get a pimple, it almost always leaves a small mark behind). That being said, this mask from Dr. Brandt was impressive for me in that it didn’t make my skin feel dry after use. This is important given that its mission is to extract all the junk that’s lurking in your pores – and in my experience, products such as these have me begging for a moisturizer as soon I get the stuff off. I enjoyed sampling this mask. It’s quick and easy to use. I appreciated how it turns light blue as an indicator that it’s time to rinse off. The most heavenly part has to be the way your skin feels squeaky clean as you pat dry. The feel of the air on your skin is indescribable right after use. Magic!

Overall: A do. If you can get behind the cost.

#6. ChapStick Dual-Ended Hydration Lock | At the moment I’m crushing on Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm, but this Chapstick will go to good use. My relationship with Chapstick was re-invigorated by Birchbox last October when they introduced me to their Hydration Lock product line, which I adore. The twist on this particular Chapstick is the “Dual-Ended” feature. One side “Renews” while the other “Moisturizes” (yeah, I don’t get the difference either.) Upon further investigation, the “renew” end is great for use alone or as a primer for your lipstick during the day. The “Moisturize” side contains antioxidants more geared toward night use. The gimmick is apparent here, but I still like the product. Chapstick is Chapstick. I doubt I’ll be paying too much attention to what end I use. As long as my lips feel nourished and it lasts longer than 10 minutes, I’m happy.

Overall: A Do.

Join the Birchbox fun! Pick up your subscription here:

https://www.birchbox.com/invite/ATG

(I’m not affiliated with Birchbox outside of just being a fan…with an opinion.)

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26Sep2014

The Weekender: My Search for the Perfect Crossbody Under $50

Posted in Fashion by C.

{Click image to enlarge.}

I don’t know about you, but I have “purse moods.” This means that I’m often rotating handbags depending on the day, the outfit, or time of year. Admittedly though, ever since I splurged on my beloved Madewell Tote as a birthday present to myself earlier this year, I’ve been using it religiously as my go-to bag during the week. It’s incredibly versatile, chic, sturdy, and holds everything I need to get through a busy workweek. The beauty of this tote is the more you use it, the better it looks. There’s just something eternally classic about worn leather. It was well worth the purchase. (I’m learning they don’t call the place “Madewell” for no reason!)

Random fact about me: I’m not a fan of using small handbags during the week. There’s something so comforting about knowing that I have any and everything I need for any and every situation. The caveat, I’ve learned, is that the larger the bag, the more stuff you somehow manage to add to it because you have the room for it!

It’s a slippery slope.

The weekends, however, are a different story. I HATE lugging around a big bag as I run my errands, find myself out and about exploring the city for a blog post, or heading to a late afternoon movie. I almost always ditch my tote, pare things down, keep it simple, and load up what I call, “The Weekender.”

The Weekender is my go-to Saturday and Sunday small crossbody handbag. It’s function: to keep things light and hands-free (stylish doesn’t hurt either).

Ideally, it should hold my weekend essentials: debit card/cash, phone, sunglasses, digital camera (mine is tiny) for high-quality blog pix, my Kindle (because I always carry a book with me), and Chapstick.

My current go-to weekender that I bought at Forever 21 about 4 years ago finally broke-up with me. (Realistically, anything that last more than 6 months from Forever 21 is impressive, so I realize 4 years for a $20 bag is a considered a lifetime…or 2.) I was pretty bummed at first and even entertained the idea of having it fixed, but I’m sure the cost to do so outweighs what I actually spent on it. Even better, it gives me an excuse to look for a new bag (what woman doesn’t like that!?!) and an idea for a blog post. Win, win.

My four main requirements for my search was that it had to be crossbody-style, a color that would go with anything, on the small-to-medium end in terms of size, and under $50.

So just in time for the weekend, let’s explore my hunt for the new weekender.

What’s your favorite? (I’m always open to suggestions if you have a weekender that’s just FAB! There’s only so many hours in a day and websites a gal can visit on her own.)

Have a great weekend! x

Sources/Links:
1. // 2. // 3. // 4 . // 5. // 6. // 7 . // 8. // 9.

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24Sep2014

The Simpsons Take The Bowl

Posted in Explore, Fun by C.

bart ATG FINAL

What: The Simpsons 25th Anniversary Bash
Where: The Hollywood Bowl
Location: 2301 North Highland Avenue, Hollywood

Hollywood Bowl Sign ATG FINAL

Admittedly, it’s been a long while since I’ve actually snuggled up on the couch to watch an episode of The Simpsons, and yet, it still feels so deeply embedded as apart of my life. Perhaps it’s because the show is almost as old as I am. I have plenty of fond memories closing out the weekend as a kid on Sunday nights, laughing hysterically at the antics of the residents of Springfield over a bowl of ice cream with my family. I even recall coming home after school catching re-runs as I finished up my homework most evenings of the week.

I remember the big “Who Shot Mr. Burns?” cliff-hanger. I loved catching the cleverly-produced Halloween specials every fall. And I can still hear Krusty the Clown’s crazy laugh in my head at any given moment…20 years later.

It’s no surprise then that watching Nancy Cartwright perform “Do the Bartman” would instantly feel so reminiscent, which Yeardley Smith shared on-stage that night was in fact, written by Michael Jackson. And speaking of Michael Jackson – I teared up with child-like awe when they showed the clip of the iconic episode, “Stark Raving Dad,” featuring Leon Kompowsky, a patient Homer meets during a stint in a mental institution who believes he’s Michael Jackson. Fun fact I learned that night: MJ did Leon’s voice talent, but hired an impersonator, Kipp Lennon to sing “Happy Birthday, Lisa.” Kipp Lennon came out moments later and performed it live. It was pretty incredible. His resemblance to the late King of Pop’s voice undeniable.

The Simpsons ATG FINAL {The line was too long to take a picture on the famous Simpsons couch, so I snapped a quick photo in between set-ups for the next person. Insert me on the left.}

It’s only fitting then that to salute the longest running American sitcom ever, that The Simpsons would do it big.

And big they did.

For three consecutive nights under the stars (and during the worst heat wave ever!) at the equally iconic Hollywood Bowl, The Simpsons took reign to celebrate 25 years of laughter. The entire venue became a salute to Springfield. Donuts hung above you, Homer and Marge were available for photos, Simpsons-themed treats made for sale at the concession stands, and some of the most memorable residents of Springfield made an appearance as you made your way through the amphitheater.

Simpsons Characters ATG FINAL {The cast made appearances at every turn.}

Themed Snacks ATG FINAL {Simpsons-themed pink donuts, Flaming Moe’s and Duff Energy Drinks for sale throughout the venue.}

Donuts to greet you ATG FINAL {Donuts hung above you. Photo ops abound.}

Marge Bathrooms ATG FINAL {Even the women’s restrooms signs became “Simpson-ized.”}

Hollywood Bowl_Wide View ATG FINAL {Getting to our seats…yes, we were waaaay in the back! The good news: there isn’t a bad seat at the Hollywood Bowl.}

TIX ATG FINAL

We attended the last night of the show, the Bowl’s final performance for the summer 2014 season and unarguably the warmest night of the year.

What a treat to see the residents of Springfield come to life accompanied by the world class Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. Co-hosts Hank Azaria, Nancy Cartwright, and Yeardley Smith did a seamless job slipping in and out of character, easily being themselves during their hosting duties, but seemingly even more comfortable voicing their iconic characters throughout the night.

Bart, Lisa, the vampy Lurleen Lumpkin, Chief and Ralph Wiggum, Apu, and Moe among others all made appearances during the performance. (I’m always amazed at how many different voices one actor alone does on the show!)

Special guests graced the stage throughout the evening to sing in-character, or share thoughts about their time working with The Simpsons: Beverly D’Angelo, John Lovitz, ‘Weird Al’ Yankovic, Conan O’Brien (who I didn’t know was a writer on the show! How did I miss that!?!), Kipp Lennon; and a hysterically sweet monologue opening the show by creator, Matt Groening.

If had to pick my three favorite moments of the night, I’ve already mentioned two. It would be Nancy Cartwright rapping straight 90’s style as Bart in “Do the Bartman,” and Kipp Lennon singing “Happy Birthday, Lisa.” My third would be the fireworks extravaganza that closed the show.

Noticeably absent from the festivities (and much to my disappointment) was Homer and Marge themselves, Dan Castellaneta and Julie Kavner. Admittedly, they weren’t in the billing when we bought the tickets, but I thought perhaps they might pop-up for a moment as a “special surprise” to dupe us all. They didn’t. How can you have a tribute to The Simpsons without the patriarch and first lady of Springfield?

Despite this and the nearly 100° temperatures, it was a memorable evening and the perfect way to say goodbye to summer, but hello to a renewed relationship with The Simpsons.

Night ATG FINAL {The Bowl lights up at night like no other.}

To say that The Simpsons is television royalty is an understatement. As I wrap up my thoughts about the evening and what the show itself has done culturally, I can’t help but be awed at how the brains behind The Simpsons created an entire world that’s all to familiar to me, living through even another generation as I type this. The depth of character development in nearly every re-occurring resident of Springfield boggles my mind. The concept that we have memories associated with everyone from the Qwickie Mart owner to the bartender, to the richest man in town speaks volumes of the world that Matt Groening created. Add in the cultural idioms and phrases coined by the show (“Eat my shorts” and “Doh!” readily come to mind) and you have pure genius at play if you ask me.

Spending an evening celebrating 25 years of entertainment brought back so many happy memories from my childhood. In fact, it makes me want to spend more time with America’s never-aging family, to see what everyone in Springfield has been up to.

The Simpson’s 26th season starts this Sunday, September 28th. I plan on snuggling up on the couch and closing my weekend like I did all those years ago, by catching up with The Simpsons once again.

Bowl Fireworks ATG FINAL {Fireworks to close the show.}

{A behind the scenes look at prepping for a night at The Bowl.}

Peter ATG FINAL

{And in the midst of all things The Simpsons….you gotta love their sense of humor.}

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22Sep2014

5 Reasons This Week Will Rock!

Posted in Life, Series by C.

Happy (almost) fall! As we gear up for another Monday, the first day of fall tomorrow, and a very busy week ahead, I’m particularly excited about a few things coming down the pipeline. Here are 5 reasons this week will rock…

1. Pumpkin spice everything.

1-New folder (2) {Last year’s celebratory salute to all things pumpkin.}

You may have seen the article floating around about how Starbucks’ ever popular Pumpkin Spice Latte apparently has everything in it but actual pumpkin! It certainly is causing a pretty polarizing discussion around its supposed ingredients and its relationship to your health. Some are arguing that the original article is simply shedding light on what’s in our favorite fall beverage with the aim to help you make a more educated decision about what you put in your body, while others are touting that the article that caused a stir (no pun intended) is not “scientifically validated.” Look, I’m not going to get into whether one should or shouldn’t here. To each his own. What I will share is that seeing as how it’s Monday, that I’m going to need a pick me up (and hello, it’s fall!), I’m likely standing in line to grab my very first celebratory Pumpkin Spice Latte of the season as you read this. My motto: everything in moderation. (But yes, nothing probably beats real pumpkin.)

2. More radiant skin arrives in the mail.

clairsonic_miapink_900x900_3

When I learned Birchbox sold the highly-acclaimed and universally loved Clarasonic Mia, I immediately started saving my Birchbox points to join the legion of worshipers. Nine long months of reviewing products (oh, the agony of playing with make-up!) to save up points, along with a sexy $10 off coupon and I finally placed my order over the weekend! I can’t wait to join the Clarasonic family to see what all the fuss is about. It arrives in a few short days. I’ll keep you posted on if this thing is worth the hype, but I already suspect it is. More radiant skin is on the way!

3. Date night with a twist.

ceaf16ec3033c3db289dcaa768055cc1

What would typically be another uneventful Wednesday night probably settling in for a solo evening of homemade pasta and my Kindle, has me excited to see the usually more prim and proper Dan Stevens (of Downton Abbey fame) in the well-received new thriller/mystery film, The Guest. Fans of Adam Wingard’s You’re Next, are apparently in for a treat. The Guest is at an uber impressive 93% on Rotten Tomatoes. Sometimes a gal just needs her guy, a good thriller, and some sort of sugary candy fix to look forward to. Uneventful Wednesday night plans, cancelled.

4. One more dose of David.

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I’ve spoken much love toward my yoga instructor, David. Needless to say that when he announced he was leaving for Nepal for one month I was selfishly not a happy camper. It’s like discovering national treasure itself when you find an instructor that equally challenges and pushes you, but always makes you feel okay with listening to your body and doing what’s best for you. The good news is that I get one more dose of David in class tonight before he leaves. I plan to take it all in, be present, and get my yoga on with my favorite instructor. Once I’ve had my last dose and roll up my mat tonight in a more calm, focused space, I’ll do the “yogic” thing and wish him well on his travels…but not a minute before. Nepal is very lucky to have him.

5. “It’s handled.”

Don’t bother me this Thursday night. I’m unavailable. Scandal is back! Who-hoo! And now that my beloved Kerry Washington has popped, we get more Olivia Pope and less awkward framing and camera work to hide the baby bump. The icing on the cake? I’m super excited to see Viola Davis in the equally anticipated new drama How to Get Away with Murder. Let me re-iterate: no phone calls, texts, Facebook comments, Instagram likes, or unexpected visits at my front door this Thursday night… and every other Thursday night until further notice. I’m busy. 🙂

I hope this Monday finds you looking forward to a rockin’ week, too!

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*please follow links for image sources that aren’t mine.

19Sep2014

Highlights

Posted in Life, Series by C.

Heat wave ATG FINAL

I’m sorry I missed you on Wednesday. I had every intention of touching base, but I’ve literally been in HELL much of this week. Okay, okay…let me back up a bit and put it this way: I’m pretty sure I now have a much more firm understanding of what hell must feel like. If you haven’t heard, LA has been enduring one of the worst heat waves than even I recall in recent memory. At one point, the thermostat hit 113° and my air-conditioner decided it had had enough (understandably) and didn’t clonk out so much as start just blowing hot air into an already hot apartment in protest. Luckily, once she’d had her hissy fit and got it out of her system, I forgave her. Our relationship is now back on track.

As I write this, it’s a temperate 78° and much more my speed. Now, I’m not entirely blaming the heat wave on how things have been going lately, but it’s pretty amazing how the weather can really make or break your day. Though I’m a lover of warm weather, once we hit the triple digits, it’s hard to have the motivation to do much, other than lay around in an air-conditioned space, or seek air-conditioned shelter when you absolutely do have to leave the house. I made the joke last Sunday that I knew I wouldn’t be having the Monday blues as we returned to the work week, because it meant I’d get consistent central air for 8 lucky hours and could give my “hissy fitting” A/C at home a break.

Though the heat produced a level of lethargy throughout the week, it was also still a busy one. I spent much of it finalizing the details for an upcoming location shoot next month and began the process of booking talent for a huge project that will make the rest of 2014 an extremely busy time, but I’m up for the challenge. This lead to what had to be one of the biggest highlights this week. And that’s simply hearing you’re doing a great job! Naturally, you don’t get many kudos in this business and you can’t live your life waiting for validation, but it sure is nice when someone goes out of their way to say you’re kicking ass!

Despite the heat wave, one thing of note that I was proud to cross of my to-do list was to finally re-organize my desk at home. It felt so nice to go through my drawers, and be rid of all the unnecessary papers, while filing away the important ones, and adding the perfect drawer tray to have my supplies readily organized. A quick trip to The Container Store (the neat-freak’s candy store) and I’m loving how streamlined I feel when I’m at my desk. I would’ve dressed up my desk top with a vase of fresh flowers, but wisely thought: Why bother? They’d wilt 3 hours later in this heat. Save the $5 and buy an iced latte instead.

Container Store Tray ATG FINAL

{Getting organized. Feels good. (P.S. this tray fits a Parson’s Desk if you have one.)}

All this to say that when I learned it was National Cheeseburger Day yesterday (who knew such a glorious thing existed?), I thought I deserved a reward. Not only because I managed to make it through ~~hell~~ the heat, a rather chaotic week at the office, and crossing off my at home to-dos, but because it also wouldn’t be very nice NOT to have a cheeseburger on National Cheeseburger Day? It’s just not very celebratory. In n out ATG FINAL

{To In-N-Out we go!}

My desk organization has me very excited to do my bathroom drawers next, my make-up drawer, in particular. This means my neat-freak nature gets to make another trip back to The Container Store over the weekend! Yippee!

I think the thing I’m most looking forward to is a much cooler weekend ahead. No big plans, just happy to be hell free. Oh, I do intend to indulge in a breakfast burrito after reading Thrillist’s too inspiring article on some of The Best Breakfast Burritos in LA.

See you next week! I’m excited to share our night under the stars with live music, surprise appearances, the cast of The Simpsons, and fireworks at the Hollywood Bowl (arguably, my favorite place in all of LA). Until then, a few photos from that night along with the other highlights of the week.

Have a great weekend! x

Hollywood Bowl _ The Simpsons ATG FINAL

{The Hollywood Bowl. My favorite place in LA. You can barely see it here, but the Hollywood Sign is just beyond (top right corner). What an incredible night.}

TheSimpsonsTakeTheBowl ATG FINAL

{In my best opening credit singing voice: The Simpsooons!}

The Container Store ATG FINAL

{The neat-freak’s candy store.}

heatwave ATG FINAL

{When 104° was a “cool” day.}

Tina's Trees ATG FINAL

{A smile to my Thursday morning. It’s a touch early, but I’m pretty sure Tina’s “Trees” does pumpkins too…so we’ll go with that. Fall is on the way!}

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15Sep2014

What I’m Lovin’ Right Now

Posted in Series by C.

Coming off what has to be the hottest days of 2014 here in LA over the weekend (and you know it’s hot when I, the perpetual lover of warmth, is complaining!). It’s expected to be yet another warm day making it hard to believe that my calendar says that fall arrives exactly one week from today. Ha! Those fools.

Here are a few random things making me smile – #2 and #8 are looking especially enticing as I wipe the ~~sweat~~ feminine glow from my brow currently dripping onto my keyboard. Here’s what I’m lovin’ right now:

WIRLN ATG FINAL 2

The most succinct advice I’ve ever heard for those sipping “haterade.” | by Dr. Steve Maraboli
The ultimate refreshment to celebrate the last summer days ahead. | Very Berry Iced Tea with Honey Mint Syrup
Serious inspiration for mixing charm and modernity in a place that houses the toilet. | Rustic Industrial Master Bath
The next nail polish shade to add to the collection as the seasons start to change. | Essie’s “Island Hopping”
A retro-chic way to keep eye wear protected on the go. | Woven Etchings Glasses Case
The best way to dress up that next succulent purchase from Trader Joes and make it your own. | Daylily Herb Pot
New ear bling…just in time for fall. | Diamond Quartz Hoop Earrings
How to add little punch at lunch to the traditional caesar salad. | Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Gettin’ our eco-friendly on. | 50 Realistic Ways To Be More Eco-Friendly Right Now

Have an amazing week!

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12Sep2014

Highlights

Posted in Life, Series by C.

{Ahh, the infamous Sepulveda Pass…and this is considered pretty good traffic.
If I shot this 2 hours later, you’d see why.}

Overall, the second week of September rocked as I’d hoped!

I made peace with traffic, my Monday night yoga class helped immensely with that aforementioned task, my lips and I are BFFs again thanks to Burt’s Bees, “The Good Girl” is still good, and I’m stoked about my night under the stars at The Hollywood Bowl this weekend.

I’m not at all saying that because I accepted the even more congested time of year on LA streets and highways that somehow traffic magically thinned out this week, but it seemed the moment I shifted my perspective and adjusted accordingly (by leaving earlier than usual, boo!), it physically seemed to get a little easier on the road everyday. At one point, I actually stopped and asked myself if perhaps it was as bad as I originally thought or if the universe physically heard every Angeleno’s cry and removed a few cars off the 405 as the days passed? (I’m not that naive, but a girl can dream.) One point for the old adage of changing your perspective when you can’t change anything else. It works.

(and p.s. I came across an interesting article yesterday sharing just how hard LA traffic hits the average commuter, financially and mentally, so that you know I’m not just being dramatic.)

Though this week also had its stresses of the non-traffic related variety, I’m happy to report I made it through to the other side. Whew! Things are gearing up to be incredibly busy from now until the end of the year. Pray for me!

As such, I’m making my weekends count, but then again, I always do. Outside of finishing my book and my plans at the Bowl; I’m looking forward to seeing Kristen Wiig’s new film, The Skeleton Twins; and I finally hope to sit down, pull out my tools and supplies and just make the necklace I’ve been looking for forever, myself.

Happy weekend! x

{An afternoon stop on a hot summer day at one of my favorite places…}

{…just to grab my 2nd favorite latte (Blu Jam still makes my favorite).}

{My last summer indulgence.}

{Signs that fall is near.}

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10Sep2014

Peace, Peace, Peace.

Posted in Explore, Inspiration by C.

Where: Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens
Location: 3500 West Adams Boulevard, Mid-City
Cost: Free

“Peace, peace, peace.”

David, my yoga instructor, always closes with these three simple, yet powerful words at the end of every practice. I always catch this slight difference from the more commonly used “namaste” that’s traditionally expressed in my experience at the end of a class. And while “namaste” has an equally powerful connotation by giving the deepest levels of respect when greeting or parting from a person – there’s something about being told to leave in “peace” that decidedly has me going out into the world a little more calmer, perhaps awakened…but almost always in a more harmonious, focused space than when I arrived 90 minutes prior.

How long that feeling lasts before the chaos of the world starts to seep into my peace bubble varies from practice to practice.

I’ve heard more than once that it’s a life-long journey toward cultivating and maintaining an unshakable sense of peace as we maneuver through our days. I like to think of it as exercising a muscle. The more you do it, the stronger you become at it. It’s something that must be a priority and sought consistently to reap the rewards. And like weight training, if you stop too long, you may have to start from square one to build that muscle again.

How you go about your peace exercises differs. Perhaps it’s through a sitting meditation, yoga, or going for walk. For some, peace comes from treating yourself to a massage or facial, going to see a movie alone, reading a good book, or journaling. The point is, on some level, it’s something that we as human beings are seeking constantly – a space or a moment in time where you feel grounded in an ever-changing, uncontrollable world.

Much to my surprise, right in the middle of Los Angeles in the most unsuspecting of places lies an entire sanctuary to assist in the journey. A few weeks ago, I learned of the The Peace Awareness Labyrinth and Gardens and instantly was on-board to check it out. Their mission: to provide an oasis for anyone looking to reconnect with themselves, to take a moment away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and just breathe.

Set on the estate of a restored mansion along the busy Adams Boulevard, the stunning property welcomes you just beyond wrought iron gates. Behind the historic manor boasts a labyrinth and exquisitely designed meditation garden, the entire space fabricated with the goal to envelop all things beauty and peace.

The labyrinth might find you in the midst of a calming walking meditation as the wind chimes that hang on the trees nearby gently sing. No matter where you sit in the neighboring mediation garden, the soothing sounds of water surround you as you gaze at the endless greenery, the bamboo particularly prevalent, and the lily pond complete with fish.

I’ve sat in many beautiful gardens in my time. I’ve experienced many attempts (and admitted failures) at learning the art of meditation. And yet, there was something about this place in particular that takes the experience of peace to another realm by simply inviting yourself there and being present to the gifts around you. You find that you don’t need to work so hard at quieting the mind, the setting does it for you.

Interestingly, I lived a few blocks away from the Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens for a year after college and never knew about such a special place less than 5 minutes away from my duplex. What I think is unique about retreats such as these when thinking about those aforementioned “peace exercises” is using it as a resource in a manner that feels right for you, no pressure involved.

In fact, it’s best said by directly quoting from their website,”PAL&G is here to promote peace and help you reconnect and renew spiritually in your own way.” I suppose all I needed in that moment on that beautiful Sunday was a space to kick my feet up, sit still, and just breathe – the perfect supplement toward strengthening that muscle and building a stronger peace bubble.

“Peace, peace, peace” be to you as well. x

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8Sep2014

5 Reasons This Week Will Rock!

Posted in Life, Series by C.

5 Reasons ATG FINAL Sept 8 2014

Another week boys and girls!

It was insanely hot here in LA this past weekend, with temperatures just over 100°. I was surprised my car didn’t melt before me in protest. As such, it was quite the surprise to wake to the sounds of a light rain this morning. Not to worry though, today’s high find us at a healthy 87° – looks like we’ll be back on track for another warm summer week ahead. I suppose that the wet morning welcome was a sign that the weather gods know our plight (and our drought situation) and that relief is on the way…someday.

As we make our way through the second week of September, it occurred to me while sitting in traffic (more on that below) that I could use a little perspective boost. I have much to look forward to over the next week and it’s keeping me excited and in a more zen place until the weekend finds us again. (This is essentially how I trick myself into dealing with Mondays.)

Here are 5 reasons this week will rock…

1. I’ll make peace with traffic.

LA and traffic go together like peanut butter and jelly. It’s just apart of living here. You learn at a young age (if you’re native like myself) or new in town very quickly to plan ahead, leave early, and make the Google Maps app your friend. I thought I made peace with LA traffic…then September comes. Since I no longer personally deal with a school schedule, nor do I have children of my own to remind me, I always forget that just after Labor Day through mid-November (when I guess the dropout rate peaks and traffic thins out again) that school is in session. It seems the first few months of a new school year completely screw with the balance of “normal” LA traffic (which I have made peace with) and gives you the “I just want to charter a private jet to get to work unbearable traffic” in the mornings (which I have to make peace with again every September). Last week, I’m ashamed to admit that I got to the office more than once already totally annoyed because what takes 25 minutes in “normal” terrible LA traffic, took me an hour in “private jet unbearable traffic!” Not a good way to start a new day. This week, I’ll leave earlier, mentally preparing myself better. I’ll make sure I have a cup of coffee in drink holder and music as loud as I can stand to get me through each morning with a smile on my face. This week will rock because I’m determined to make peace with traffic…again. And pray that November gets here…like now.

2. Yoga works if you work it. It’s worth it.

What is sure to help keep my zen in check is going to my favorite yoga class tonight. Though I’ve been attending this Hatha Yoga class for about 6 weeks now, I think I’m finally getting back into my yoga groove. I can feel myself improving, growing stronger, and I absolutely love the feeling and the space I’m in when I leave. I adore the instructor, David, a true yogi through and through. He challenges us and pushes us, but has the most gentle way of encouraging us to listen to our body and modifies any pose as-needed without making you feel shameful about it. The ironic thing is that I have to get back into my car and drive some more to get home, but at 9:00pm traffic is never a problem.

3. My lips love me.

I don’t know about you, but this time of year is when my skin starts to rebel against me. Every part of me starts to dry out: my hands, my lips, essentially, any part of me involving skin. I was stoked when I stumbled across Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Tinted Color Lip Balm over the weekend. This stuff is incredible. It’s moisturizing, has a slight shine, and a hint of color. My lips love me right now for thinking of them and not waiting until they’re totally chapped to address the seasonal elephant in the room.

4. The Good Girl.

I started a new read on my Kindle and I can’t put it down. Every minute of free time I have this week will be to see what happens to “The Good Girl” by Mary Kubica. It’s a thriller/mystery novel that has a delicious set-up. I’m only about 30% through – so I can’t say much about its merits. I oftentimes love the build-up when it comes to a good thriller narrative, then become disappointed at the climax (insert: Gone Girl here). I’ll keep you posted.

5. Fireworks / The Hollywood Bowl.

I’m SO looking forward to finally making it to the Hollywood Bowl this weekend just in time to catch a concert before the end of summer. The icing on the cake is that this is the last of the Bowl’s summer series featuring the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra along with a fun tribute this year to The Simpsons 25th Anniversary. A large fireworks spectacular, the whole cast, one of the best orchestras in the world, and a picnic under the stars couldn’t sound more appealing. Look for a full post on that special night to come.

Have an amazing week ahead guys! And if you’re in the LA area, just make peace with the traffic. We’re all in hell right now. 🙂

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Image Sources: Fireworks: By Thomas Hawk from San Francisco via Wikimedia Commons // Traffic: By Saad Akhtar, both used under CC BY (all others are mine.)

5Sep2014

Highlights

Posted in Life, Series by C.

make a wish ATG FINAL {Making a wish, hoping it comes true.}

It always seems to take a few days to get back into the swing of things after a long holiday weekend. The moment I find myself steadily back into my weekday routine/mindset (circa yesterday, if I’m honest), it’s slightly comical to me that the weekend is upon us again so soon. No complaints here, it’s just crazy how time works.

The holiday weekend found my boyfriend and I doing some exploring downtown to finally check-out the landmark Grand Central Market and The Last Bookstore, spaces that equally scream history and flair. Although, the highlight had to be when we stumbled upon a true gem in the heart of Los Angeles, The Peace Awareness Labyrinth and Gardens and enjoyed an afternoon at one of the most tranquil places I’ve ever been. If you’ve never sat in a mediation garden, you’re missing out! I’ll elaborate on this experience in a future post.

September is off to a good, but somewhat exhausting start. I can’t seem to maintain a consistent level of energy and I suspect that’s something that a good vacation could help with, but isn’t in the cards any time soon. The busiest time of year for me starts now and won’t let up much until next year. So, I’ll have to find balance in the chaos.

I spent some time this week really thinking about ways to improve my energy levels at home, while also thinking about tweaks I can make now to make it through the more indulgent time of year dead ahead. I’ve been logging all my meals for just over a month now to see where I can improve (and it’s really eye-opening how much unnecessary snacking I had been doing all summer). My issue has never been that I’m an unhealthy eater, because I’m not. What I’ve always known and can now attest to since I’ve been keeping a food log lately, is re-thinking and making better decisions when it comes to portion sizes (and, admittedly, ridding myself of the nasty habit of snacking after dinner while watching TV). To up the ante on my new-found motivation to work on my energy levels and my diet, I also spent some time this week researching food scales (to better gauge portions when cooking at home) and pedometers (because I know I’m not getting my 10,000 steps a day). I think I’ve found the scale and the pedometer I want to add to my experiment and will make my purchases over the weekend. I’ve also committed to making myself go to bed earlier. That one thing alone does wonders! The next step is to start thinking about juicing (something that I’ve been wanting to try) to help get nutrients in a more powerful way to see how my body responds.

Then again, perhaps this is just part of aging and I need to learn to let nature take its course. Ha!

It seems from here on out the rest of year just flies by. Soon enough I’ll be blogging about fall trends, Halloween plans, eating turkey (or usually ham in my case), then trying to budget and figure out that jolly time of year we call Christmas. I can’t believe 2014 is leaving us in just 3 short months.

Until then, I’m soaking up the last of the summer days ahead and look forward to sharing them with you.

Have a great weekend! x

Meditation Garden 2 ATG FINAL {My first time in a meditation garden…clearly feeling very at home.}