Highlights

Posted in Cocktails, Dinner, Explore, Film, Fun, Home Decor, Music, Treats by C.

1-IMG_20130421_195717_856 {An early birthday present.}

It has definitely been a more lively week than usual on my end. I’m trying to wrap up some loose ends at work before I take a much needed vacay the first week in May. The good news is that while it’s been busy, I always sort of revel in the challenge in the end. Somehow getting the things you need to get done are all the sweeter when you realize that if you just do it and push through, you can do anything. You just have to take the first step, then the next.

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Outside the office, I had a happy week. I met a friend at one of my favorite places to splurge every blue moon, Rock Sugar in Century City for dinner to kick-off my weekend last Friday night. While it was a fantastic Pan Asian feast, I think in the future I’ll skip dinner and head there for their delicious Lychee Blossom cocktail and their AMAZING warm coconut donuts served with a passion fruit dipping sauce. Yes, it is as good as it sounds and looks. Go!

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When thinking about small pleasures this week, a trip to the Hollywood Farmer’s Market on a sunny Sunday morning, then sitting on the Manhattan Beach Pier with my boyfriend gazing out at the ocean with an ice cream cone on that same afternoon come to mind and make me smile. And every time I head home, I smile even bigger when I see my new artwork hanging on my wall (pictured above). A few months back, I was with my boyfriend admiring it (because, hey – it’s “me” in a ball-gown and chic haircut starting out my window at the Hollywood Sign :)) and as an early birthday present he surprised me with it. What a guy, huh?

I’m not sure where this weekend will take me, but I know that I’ll be at the ArcLight opening night for the highly anticipated new film, Mud. Since this gorgeous weather is expected to continue over the next few days, the plan is to find some time to be outdoors (rocking my new maxi dress). And the soundtrack of my life lately that will certainly continue into the weekend has been the soundtrack from Celeste & Jesse Forever. I can’t. stop. listening to it.

Have an amazing final April weekend, guys! Things only get better from here! xx

25Apr2013

Take A Hike

Posted in Explore, Fitness, Fun by C.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, one of the best things about Southern California living is how much outdoor adventure awaits you. When the weather turns cold, you can hit Big Bear in less than 2 hours and find yourself playing in the snow and sipping cocoa. When things heat up, the beach is less than 20 minutes away for many of us for some fun in the sun while cradling an iced latte. And without much effort at all, you can enjoy sweeping city views (and much-needed exercise after sitting in traffic then at your desk 75% of the week) perched high on a mountain-top after an invigorating hike.

Last week, a colleague of mine introduced me to an amazing app to have handy on your phone called All Trails. Its aim is to help you discover hiking trails nearest you no matter where you find yourself in the U.S. Simply pull out your phone or visit their website, enter your location and sift through the over 40,000+ trails featured on the app that conveniently note the distance and how long it would take to complete. What I personally dig, is how you can search for specific outdoor needs and elements important to you – like searching for trails with lakes or waterfalls, trails that are easy or more difficult depending on your level of fitness, or looking for trails that are great to bring Fido along on. Be sure to check out the reviews, it’s like a concentrated outdoor version of Yelp to help you decide what trail is best for you.

Surprisingly, there are tons of hiking opps in LA alone (460 trails popped up when I entered zip code 90049). Admittedly, the caveat is that the popular trails are usually crowded and I’ve even seen people annoyingly gabbing on their iPhone when they should be enjoying nature!

I’m a huge fan of the Temescal Canyon Loop Trail off Sunset Blvd. in Pacific Palisades. After a moderate hike up the mountain, you’re rewarded with the best view of Los Angeles you could ever see.

My experience with hiking in LA is not vast and as frequent as it should be. I tend to stick with the same trails. (Totally boring!) Believe it or not, I’ve never done the famous Hollyridge Trail. This 2.60 mile journey takes you as up close and personal as you’ll ever be to the beloved Hollywood Sign (legally). Naturally, this is what I’ll tackle next. I’ll keep you posted. In the meantime, take a hike!

22Apr2013

Me and Celeste and Jesse Forever

Posted in Explore, Film, Fun, Independent Cinema, Music by C.

Though the title of this post is rather dramatic (catchy though, huh?), one of my unexpected favorite films of 2012, Celeste and Jesse Forever is the epitome of one of those cinematic experiences that I’ll never forget; so much so that I’m still reveling in the residuals of its effects on me as a fellow Angeleno seven months after seeing it. The film not only introduced me to arguably the best soundtrack of the year, it also captured the complexities of relationships humorously and touchingly; and better yet, captured the essence of Los Angeles in some of the best cinematography I’ve seen of the city in some time. It even inspired me to finally take a tour of the Walt Disney Concert Hall.

I followed the seemingly complicated efforts to get a digital release of the album made available and after hearing the news a few months back from the Music Supervisor himself, Jonathan Hafter, (gotta love the power of the blogosphere, you can read more here) – I finally purchased the soundtrack from iTunes. Unfortunately, some of my favorite songs weren’t included on the official soundtrack release, so I bought all of the singles (noted on a Spotify playlist) separately. Let’s just say I spent a great deal of this insanely gorgeous L.A. weekend vibin’ out the likes of Sunny Levine (my new fav), BLO, and Vetiver among others.

Soundtrack Links:

iTunes

Spotify

I see hundreds of films every year. There are tons of characters and stories that stick with me as a result, and my devotion to all things cinema oftentimes leave me in a state of never committing to having a single favorite. (Til this day, I cannot answer that question, it gives me a headache even attempting to do so.) Sometimes there are those stories that unexpectedly open your eyes to new things and this is one of those films. I can’t explain why – some hit you harder than others. Perhaps it’s because you were in the right mood, at the right place, at the right time. I walked into this story thinking at best, it would be a fun popcorn flick. I certainly didn’t expect it to resonate so much.

If you’re looking for new tunes (which I happen to listening to as I write this post!) and a great independent film, join me and Celeste and Jesse Forever. 🙂

{Film review excerpted from a previous post.}

Celeste & Jesse Forever – This was one of those films that I left the theater with such a high thinking THIS is why I LOVE movies. Celeste and Jesse are the best of friends, but terrible as husband and wife. The story picks up with their struggle at sustaining a friendship while in the midst of a divorce and pursuing other romantic interests. Rashida Jones (Celeste) and Andy Samberg (Jesse) have such a fluid and natural on-screen chemistry between them that drew me in immediately. What I was most enchanted by was not only the precise well-written dialogue; but the indie feel to how this narrative was told through its stunning salute to another main character, the sweeping city of Los Angeles, via its cinematography choices. I experienced almost every major emotion in 90 minutes of being in Celeste and Jesse’s world and I didn’t want to go. I laughed, felt my eyes water, and smiled at the very complicated, yet entertaining and relatable situation. This is also the first film I’d seen in quite some time where the music was used so impeccably it enhanced the overall experience of the film and introduced me to some of my favorite music of the year. If I had to pick my top film of 2012, this would be it (or closely tied with Zero Dark Thirty).

{Trailer.}

12Apr2013

Highlights

Posted in Beauty, Explore, Food, Fun, Home Decor, Lunch by C.

This week has been all about the finishing touches, those small details that make the WORLD of difference. In retrospect, these little details and finishing touches hit nearly every area of my life and lead to one of the best, most productive, and happiest weeks I feel like I’ve had in quite a while.

From returning to yoga practice (after missing two weeks), checking out the Silver Lake Farmers’ Market for the first time for fresh strawberries; frolicking around Universal City Walk in search of the best popcorn ever (see my new favorite flavor here), finally giving in to the use of a make-up primer, to a few sweet surprises from a sweet guy, and stopping to enjoy a small treat a friend brought back from Paris – it’s been a week full of finishing touches, little details, and small pleasures. It’s making the world of difference.

Have a great weekend! xx

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8Apr2013

Dressed in Mint

Posted in Accessories, Explore, Fashion, Fun, Shoes by C.

If you haven’t noticed, mint green is THE hot color of the season and I’m totally into this particular chroma trend. While I do like to keep an eye on all things fashion and indulge daily in fashion blogs (Wendy’s Lookbook is my addiction right now), I’m not one to go out and personally buy a lot of expensive stuff that lasts one season (but talk to me in a few years when I’m loaded). In fact, I have a love/hate relationship with shopping in general. In a nutshell, I love the idea of finding the perfect piece and adding it to your collection. I certainly adore fabulous clothes, handbags (my fav!), shoes, and jewels as much as the next girl; but if I were to be perfectly honestly with you, I hate the physical process of shopping. In particular, the trying things on in a fluorescent lit dressing room only to get frustrated that it looks better on the mannequin than you part. Ugh.

This doesn’t mean that I don’t appreciate a good fashion trend. I can’t think of a more refreshing salute to spring than the subtle yet vibrant shade of mint. And since I don’t have anything in my collection representing this craze, I’ve been dreaming of fun, yet affordable ways to incorporate this beautiful color into my look. I have a feeling this color might last longer than a season. Perhaps it’ll inspire ways to find you dressed in mint as well.

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EARRINGS| Mineral Teardrop Earrings // Francesca’s Collections // $12.00

CROPS| Pilcro Stet Slim Crop Jeans // Anthropologie // $98.00

MANI/PEDI| Essie Turquoise & Caicos Nail Polish // Ulta // $8.00

SUNDRESS| Ribbed Dress with Metallic Belt // Forever 21 // $29.80

FLATS| Dolley 03 Mint D’Orsay Pointed Flats // Lulu’s // $21.00

SUNNIES| Hepcat Shades // Madewell // $55.00

5Apr2013

Highlights

Posted in Explore, Film, Food, Fun, Shoes by C.

Boy, did this week go by fast. So fast, in fact, that some of my things to do…went seemingly undone. I managed at the very least to give myself a spring pedi before rocking my new sandals and finally stopped talking the talk and joined the Brita family (yes, I was a slave to bottled water). No worries though, sometimes you just need to take it easy. Something that doesn’t come naturally to my slightly O.C.D., perfectionist-driven personality. I have to say, one of my favorite nights this week was simply coming home making my famous (Pinterest stolen) baked garlic chicken with a chopped side salad for dinner and settling in to watch Lolita, one of Stanley Kubrick’s films that I wanted to catch-up on after checking out the current exhibition at the LACMA a few weeks ago.

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While the week went by fast, it halted altogether when I heard the sad news of Roger Ebert’s passing. My heart raced as I absorbed the headline and was instantly transported to when I used to sit and watch him agree to disagree (or agree to agree) with Gene Siskel and later Richard Roeper on Sunday nights “At the Movies.” With much bias, I tended to trust his judgement whenever he gave a “thumbs up” or “thumbs down” in his film analysis. I was deeply saddened when I realized the balcony really is closed. Rest in peace, Mr. Ebert. From one film enthusiast to another, I always enjoyed being “At the Movies” with you.

2Apr2013

WAR / Photography

Posted in Documentary, Explore by C.

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Location: 2000 Avenue of the Stars #1000, Century City

I walked into this exhibition expecting at the very least to be emotionally challenged when coming face-to-face with the realities of war violence in a very direct and visually compelling way; to see a side of photography that I have never personally explored outside the occasional graphic or heart wrenching photo released in the media.

WAR/Photography: Images of Armed Conflict and its Aftermath is the newest exhibition at The Annenberg Space for Photography that examines the imagery of war and its consequences. 75 photographers whose lenses have captured war as early as the Mexican American War in 1847 to the Libyan Civil War that ended in late 2011 are profiled.

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What I appreciated about this moving experience, was the structure in telling the narrative. Rather than displaying photos together by specific wars, the curators opted to tell the story of conflict, collectively, as an arc. As such, the presentation begins with the advent of combat, disclosing images that illustrate the exact moment that provokes a war; to memorials and remembrance, sharing the aftermath of destruction, death, and survival. Between these concrete bookends of beginning and end, the show spends time forming a powerful narrative arc by navigating areas such as: recruitment, rescue, the fight, daily life, post-traumatic stress disorder, medicine/triage, prisoners of war, refugees, impact on children, how faith/religion are handled, and even burial procedures among many other dynamic themes.

One of the first questions that came into my mind when I was first introduced to WAR/Photography, was why? Why do these photojournalists put their lives and mental well-being on the line to capture an image during live combat? Do we really need such graphic and melancholy pictures to know that war and violence is inherently bad? This is not to disrespect those who do choose to pursue the honorable career of war/military photography and have died in the process or any subject highlighted in the photos, but merely an honest thought that crossed my mind when approaching the content. I found my answer when watching the 30 minute short documentary complimenting the exhibition that loops in the main gallery space. When one photojournalist said that his aim was to “personalize war” in an effort to “mature society” a light bulb went off in my head. The point, of course, is not only to document what’s happening (this I knew); but to visually humanize faces, names, family members, lives, cities, countries, people. This makes absolute sense to me. It’s a raw portrait of humanity.

Luckily, I watched the documentary before roaming the gallery. Having understood this fundamental observation for war photography straight from their mouths, I looked at the images in front of me with new eyes. Not to say that I wouldn’t have understood, appreciated, and respected the exhibition and its message without this explanation from the video; but I think getting to know some of the people behind the pictures and their purpose for risking their lives (and almost certain PTSD diagnosis) after having lived through such an ordeal for their mission to capture the story was inspiring.

I don’t know if it’s because it was the first set of photographs exhibited or perhaps because it’s still such a vivid memory in my lifetime as an American; but the 4 part picture series of the second plane heading toward the World Trade Center on 9/11, the North tower already in flames, capturing the exact moment that lead to the on-going War in Afghanistan, affected me immediately and set the tone for what would be a heavy experience as I made my way through the gallery.

I encourage you to see this exhibition. Beware, it’s graphic in nature – but an experience unlike anything you’ve seen. It’s disturbing, it’s infuriating, it’s moving, it’s humanizing. The exhibition runs until June 2nd.

{A trailer for the documentary complimenting the exhibition is below.}

29Mar2013

Highlights

Posted in Breakfast, Brunch, Explore, Film, Food, Fun, Lunch, Shoes, Treats by C.

Happy Good Friday and a good Friday it will be.

After a rather hectic week of “fighting the man” in various areas of my life, I’m so looking forward to the next three days off to recharge. I’m the kind of person that will fight when things need to get done and I won’t let it go until it is (I don’t care if it’s over a dollar – it’s the principle!). While I always try to retain a level of diplomacy and politeness – I have no problem calling, emailing, stalking, and generally speaking my mind when something needs to be addressed. One of my pet peeves in life is when another’s personality is quite opposite to this and they’re not being responsive. I like people who get *crap* done! (I really wanted to use the other word, but want to keep things PG here). 🙂

As cliché as this statement has become, I’m a spiritual rather than religious person. Easter as a young child usually involved a huge Easter basket and a special homemade dinner where preparations started earlier in the day. I also recall watching parts of “The Ten Commandments” on afternoon TV – not fully understanding what the heck I was watching because it was so long and they “spoke funny.”

Sadly, as an adult, I don’t have a ritual for this weekend, but totally respect those who do. It’s always nice to take time out to celebrate and reflect on what you believe in. If I had a choice, perhaps I would tackle watching “The Ten Commandments” again (with the subtitles on for clarity) after a leisurely Easter Brunch at Cafe Midi.

Have a great weekend and whatever your beliefs, I think this is a good time, as ever, to reflect on them.

My week’s highlights as we bid goodbye to March…

TREAT| gelato

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{Indulging in a few bites of my guy’s gelato. You get the treat without the guilt!}

EAT| cafe midi

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{Finally, I had brunch at Cafe Midi – it’s my favorite new place.}

SPRING| flowers

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{My first floral purchase for Spring // The Spring Project is now underway.}

SHOP| farmer’s market

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{I’ve been on a serious farmer’s market kick lately. I enjoy starting out my Sunday mornings visiting a local farmer’s market and stocking up on fresh produce for the week.}

(This week: Studio City.}

EAT| lunch

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{I was so proud of my homemade lunch concoctions this week (lots of salads), thanks to my farmer’s market visit.}

SHOES| sandals

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{So my Audrey Brooke Wedges were too narrow for my feet (the risks of online shopping). I went in-store to exchange them for these adorable Unisa Lenni Glitter Sandals.}

DVD| zero dark thirty

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{A sweet gift for my DVD collection from the BF and one of my favorite movies of 2012.}

28Mar2013

Birchbox Review: March

Posted in Beauty, Explore, Fun by C.

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When I opened Birchbox #2, I was already in a great mood having spent the day touring the Walt Disney Concert Hall downtown. I had received it earlier that morning, but wanted to wait until later that day to build the anticipation so I’d have something to look forward to (I was like a kid on Christmas morning!). To my delight, these 6 goodies were inside…

1. Stella Cadente Miss Me Discrete? Eau de Toilette // I was pleasantly surprised by this french fragrance. It’s very subtle with floral undertones that give off a light powdery smell. I found myself reaching for it frequently because it’s so appropriate for Spring and I loved spending my days lightly spritzed by this whimsical and romantically inspired fragrance. Aside from it being pretty pricey, this isn’t a scent that I think carries beyond this season – so while I plan to enjoy the sample, I likely won’t purchase the full sized bottle.

2. Twistband Headband // Admittedly, it took me a minute to warm to this item. I knew it was a headband, but wondered why it was tied in a huge knot at the nape that looked kind of cheap to me. I suppose I’m used to thin headbands forming an infinity circle that makes it look well-made. Once I got past the knot and read up on why these were so special, I gave it a try. I loved it! I loved the pop of color it gave my look when I wore it, but most of all, I loved that it stayed in place and didn’t leave a huge crease in my hairline – complaint #1 when wearing skinny headbands! I’m on the fence about purchasing more in large part because of the cost. The sample band I got is fun enough to use without moving forward.

3. Benefit Benetint // In theory, I’m a fan of what this product was designed to do, provide a lasting natural tint to lips and cheeks. Unfortunately, because of my more caramel complexion this didn’t show up extremely well on my skin when I first used it. However, when I applied a few coats it did stand out more, but the tint didn’t seem as long-lasting as promoted. My thinking is that this would be perfect for more pale to olive skin tones.

4. Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant // Good thing I read what this stuff was for because I thought it was a simple moisturizer suitable enough for use after washing my face. Turns out, the greasy, amber colored goo that came out of the packet with an “interesting smell” is more of a salve used for intense moisture of chapped lips, cuticles, or rough heels and sunburned skin. I did find this product to be awesome on my feet before bed and when I wanted some moisture on my lips, but this isn’t something I’d ever purchase. The greasy nature and smell don’t help at all. Some Vaseline and/or cocoa butter would do the trick – and not be so smelly.

5. Whish Shave Crave Shaving Cream – The best part about this organic shaving cream is hands down the intense blueberry scent and soft skin post shower. I didn’t feel the need to have to put lotion on right away as I normally do when I shave my legs. The one thing I couldn’t get over was that this product doesn’t lather. I’m used to that thick foam that develops when using my much cheaper (and still pleasantly scented) Skintimate shaving cream, and I realized that I like shaving my legs with that kind of texture. Even though I loved the scent, the natural ingredients used, and how moisturized my skin was after using Whish – I would never spend more than $5.00 on a can of shaving cream. This stuff is over-priced.

6. Madewell for Birchbox Nail Emery Board – What can I say? It’s a nail file. Since I have a few of these already, it’s still unopened and unused at writing time. I plan to add this to my make-up bag in my purse for emergencies. I do like the cute floral design and appreciate the extra bonus in this month’s box – but there really isn’t much more to say than…it’s a nail file 🙂

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// Overall //

While some of the products are inherently great – cost is a huge factor for why I wouldn’t purchase anything full-size from the Birchbox Shop this time around. If I was in the mood to splurge, it would be for the Stella Cadente fragrance. I really liked the headbands, but there must be an equal alternative at a beauty supply store for half the cost. Don’t think of me as an unhappy Birchbox customer – part of the fun is simply in the experimentation and trying something new at low risk. Keep em coming, Birchbox. Until April, stay beautiful.

Please do share your Birchbox stories with me in the comments section below – it’s infectious to hear them!

27Mar2013

|| What I’m Lovin’ Right Now ||

Posted in Accessories, DIY, Explore, Fashion, Food, Fun, Handbags, Inspiration, Travel, Treats by C.

There was a time when this week meant something more than work deadlines, trying to get to the gym, the grocery store, getting my laundry done, and a car wash. Spring break always sounded so exotic to me. In part, because I would hear the plans of my peers for their week of unadulterated freedom that included short road trips or jet-setting to Cabo for some fun in the sun.

In college, spring break was always the first week in March, but we would also get a few extra days off around Easter. I went to school with a lot of wealthy students whose parents paid their way for everything. Spring break for me was looking forward to some time off from my classes, but I would still work and might drive home to Orange County to see my family for a few days. Unfortunately, I never could afford to do much more than that.

I remember the times I used to watch T.R.L. on MTV during spring break wondering what that experience would be like – where you pack your bags, hang out at a gorgeous resort, and live in a bikini for a whole week. In retrospect, I might have hated consistently being around a bunch of drunk people and would have much rather been at home taking naps, working, and reading (as was my typical experience). Then again, had I been able to afford those cliché spring break beach getaways, I imagine it would’ve been a lot of sleeping, partying, flirting with cute guys from different schools, lounging, and laughing mixed in with lots of unnecessary drunken drama. I’ll suppose I’ll never be 21 again to find out.

What I am looking forward to is the day that I can actually take myself on an extended vacation to an exotic resort and sip margaritas all day minus the annoying drunk college students. The best part will be that I paid for it all on my own and, as such, it would be a much richer and well-deserved experience.

here’s what i’m lovin’ right now

|| Vacay inspired accessories. ||

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