Category Archives: Fun

Beaches: The Sequel

Posted in Explore, Fun, Treats by

Location: 30000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu

Only in Los Angeles can you still enjoy a beach day…in October…two weeks into “Fall.” In celebration of what we thought was the last hurrah of the heat wave that just wouldn’t leave (and seems to be making a comeback even as I type this), the “wind beneath my wing” and I headed back to “Beaches” to enjoy the sequel to our first time gracing the Malibu shore. This time, Zuma Beach.

Armed with my latte from Cafecito Orgánico and this month’s book club selection – the next five hours were spent sipping, snacking, reading, catching up with my guy, listening to the sound of the waves, and breathing in fresh air (well, as fresh as you can get in L.A., I saw you roll your eyes).

With the temperatures hitting the 90’s again this week, maybe we can squeeze in one last visit and make these “Beaches” posts into a franchise like Hollywood execs would undoubtedly milk the hell out of do today. I can already see it. The film version would star Bette Midler and Barbara Hershey’s kids carrying on the dramatic legacy of female bonding, eventual friendship, and death; and then their kids, and then their kids, and so on and so on. If this story line goes into development anytime soon, I claim rights to the idea – you read it here first!

In the meantime, you just might get an All That Glitters franchise out these “Beaches” posts if this heat wave can’t take a hint that the party’s over, it’s being a total attention whore, and it’s time to let Autumn take center stage.

Cafecito Orgánico, Malibu

Posted in Explore, Food, Fun by

Location: 29169 Heathercliff Road, Malibu

Two exciting ways to start a weekend?
1). Trying out a new coffee spot for the first time.
2). Trying out a new coffee spot for the first time while on the way to hang out with your favorite person at the beach all day!

Cafecito Orgánico sits in a small shopping center in Malibu just off PCH. Of course, what drew little ol’ me towards the small cafe was the fancy schmansy name and the fact that I desperately wanted a latte next to me on the beach.

I have to say, I got a bit of the Graffiti Coffee Bar vibe from here. Again, a very simple (though not nearly as dramatic) interior are about all you get visually – but the awesome coffee art they draw in your latte makes up for the lack of punch in the store design. They’re proud to boast that they, too, use only the finest of beans (which reads awesome coffee, but expensive).

I had no huge issues in particular, just a few slight annoyances that came up that put this place in the blah category. Cafecito Orgánico is yet another establishment that doesn’t offer vanilla syrup (which is a sin in my book). The menu lists random drink names that I’ve never heard of and doesn’t offer a description which prompts you to have to bug the poor Barista about what the heck a “global warming” is?

In the end, I went with a “cafecito” at their suggestion. Boy, was it strong! This is in large part because I’m sure my 5 year association with Starbucks and their infamously so-so espresso has likely ruined me in truly appreciating the delicacies of fine Central American artisan coffee, and very much because I’m a girl that has to have some flavor in her latte (hence my annoyance with no vanilla syrup in-house).

A cool thing that makes this place stand out is in their use of modern technology. Upon ordering my super duper small beverage for a mere $4.00; an iPad screen was flipped my way that gave me the total, asked if I wanted to include a tip, and if I wanted the receipt emailed, texted, or printed out for me. Pretty neat.

In the end, I can’t say I’d make it a point to have to stop here on the way to the beach in the future. Nothing against Cafecito Orgánico, but I like my syrup in addition to saying I’m drinking high quality coffee beans. I’d rather head over to Graffiti Coffee Bar where at least I’m paying an arm and a leg for a latte, but I also get my vanilla flavoring AND an always much needed opportunity to enjoy the warmth and gaze longingly at the fireplace…in 90 degree weather.

Highlights: Fall Inspired

Posted in Breakfast, DIY, Fashion, Food, Fun, Inspiration, Treats by

Hey there Glitterati!

Took a short hiatus but I’m back with tons to catch you up on! First, some highlights. Much needed smiles came from these recent findings. Coincidentally, they were all a nod to the Fall season:

{Do yourself a favor and go out and get a tub of Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Cream Cheese. I had my first bagel with this spread a few days ago and my tongue did the happy dance.}

{The Halloween decorations have begun! If you need an inexpensive way to salute the season, these pumpkin shaped lights from Target are perfect. Similar here.}

{While the heat is still ever-present in L.A. (and even I’m over it at this point), we did get our first Fall rain last week which promoted some candle burning at home and clean air (and mat) outside.}

{This t-shirt I saw in the storefront window at Wet Seal put a huge grin on my face – naughty, naughty!}

So much to talk about with you all, and I’ll get you up to speed. In the meantime, have a great week! 🙂

Fall Uniform: California Office & Interview Chic

Posted in Accessories, DIY, Fashion, Fun, Handbags, Shoes by

Admittedly, I’m not a fan of personally rockin’ the ultra tailored look to work because I don’t work in a law office (business suits – ugh!); but I can appreciate that high-powered, I’m a “bad-ass exec with my own assistant” look when I see it. (Excuse my French).

In general, L.A. is pretty casual with office wear, especially, if you work in the industry. It’s very common to see short sleeves, opened toed sandals, and jeans walking past women in the halls. Perhaps as I make my way up the professional ladder with my own assistant, my office attire will naturally grow a bit more more tailored (and hopefully I’ll build you a list with more Prada and Gucci and less H&M selections).

Don’t get me wrong, I very much like to look put together, professional, clean, and tailored; but with a casual edge, versus too structured. Thanks to Polyvore.com, I think I achieved an ensemble that screams “Hello Fall!” and would be something I would wear to a job interview or an important meeting at the office.

What I love about this ensemble is that you get to maintain a young fun look by building a base around black skinny jeans. I’ve always been a fan of black jeans to keep it casual (because you’re still in jeans!), but dressier because of the darker color choice. These black cap-toed pumps from H&M offer the perfect edge that prevents the look from being too stuffy. A simple ruffled blouse with a tailored blazer is always feminine and appropriate to easily accomplish a more polished look – but again, keeps it young and fresh because of the skinny jeans.

Jewelry should be kept to a minimum (save the chandelier earrings for when you already have the job!) with simple studs and a bracelet similar to the one I stumbled across from 1928 Jewelry (and is going on my must have list), this vintage silver lace stretch bracelet.

Finally, if you ever need an excuse to buy a new purse (NOT!) what better choice than a black satchel similar to the one from Big Buddha highlighted. This bag offers an expensive look without the price tag.

Either way, sporting this you’ll ace that job interview or kick butt in the staff meeting before you even have to open your mouth. Have a great week…

Highlights: October Beginnings

Posted in Explore, Fashion, Food, Fun, Lunch, Shoes by

The first week of October was kind to me – particularly in the simplicity of gratitude for:

{Subtle signs that while Fall is fashionably late, it’s coming. Hints of the leaves turning was an unexpected sight to finally see.}

{Perhaps my post yesterday is working! I wore my camel colored boots this week and didn’t sweat to death. I decided to start with my lighter boots and work my way to darker ones as the season slowly changes. Though this picture is making me wonder if it’s time for a new pair? These are looking pretty worn vintage. Might have to make a visit to Cathy Jean soon.}

{Pomegranate and Pear Salad + a Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing = To. Die. For.

Ingredients: Romaine Lettuce, saladini, frisee, cranberries, croutons, blue cheese, pears, and pomegranate seeds.}

{The clouds were being rather creative a few days ago. Turns out it was a little sky writing in the L.A. skyline.}

Looking forward to spending some time at the beach this weekend to enjoy a final hurrah before the heat wave officially says goodbye. Have a great weekend!

Amoeba Music

Posted in Books, Documentary, Explore, Film, Fun, Independent Cinema, Music by

Location: 6400 Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood

I don’t care how much more convenient, cheap, and cool it is to go digital; I’ll always be a fan of physically being around CDs, DVDs, and books. Yes, I love my iPod as much as the next music fiend and rarely play CDs in my car anymore; and yes, I smile to myself whenever something on-demand is instantly streaming on my screen with the click of a button; but there’s still something so enduring and solid about the real thing.

Amoeba Music needs no introduction. I’ve been here more times than I can count. It’s one of the few remaining places you can head to in L.A. to buy CDs, to scout for rare and used DVDs, or pick up an LP for your record player. Part of the fun here is just in the atmosphere, the simple elation of being around such a vast collection of art in its many forms. It’s cluttered (in a good way – makes you feel like you can find anything or that you’re digging for treasure), has that “I’m an independent record store” old dusty smell, and while the new stuff can be on the pricey side, this place rocks when it comes to hard to find titles.

My only complaint and continued frustration is that they don’t let you bring beverages in the store. Hello!?! How much more fun would this place be if you could peruse thousands of titles while sipping an iced latte? I’d sure spend more money here if I could. Caffeine affects the body like that.

Thanks to an awesome Groupon find passed my way, I spent an hour on Saturday afternoon sifting through new and used DVDs and Blu-Rays to update my collection. The problem with Amoeba is that you walk in with an idea of what you want, but then you start flipping through the inventory and get side-tracked (owning “Death Becomes Her” on DVD would be real treat once I thought about it!).

In the end, I had 4 movies I was trying to decide on and only a $30 credit to use. I walked out with two films that gave me lots to laugh and think about last year that I knew would get plenty of rotation in my Blu-Ray player: Friends with Kids and 50/50.

My Milkshake Brings All The Boys To The Yard…

Posted in Explore, Food, Fun, Treats by

Location: 8910 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood

Week 2 into the Fall season and the L.A. heat wave continues. A few days ago, a great idea came upon my boyfriend and I as we were running some errands in West Hollywood that momentarily (and I mean momentarily!) made me grateful for the heat: a more than justifiable pit stop to Millions of Milkshakes.

{Menu.}

Of course, I’ve been to Millions of Milkshakes before, but this was my first time visiting the original location that opened in 2008. Aside from the loud music (must every L.A. establishment give off the “we’re so hip party vibe” by making you scream your order at the cashier?), the air-conditioning was welcomed and the menu continues to be fun. You can get creative however you choose by customizing a creamy treat to your exact liking, ordering from their popular shakes selection; or if you really want to be creepy and channel your favorite celeb in an intimate way, you can order from the celebrities menu where an A-lister (but most times a total D-lister) has created and endorses their own personal concoction. P.S. I know we are all human and have worth, but why is Ocotomom on this list?

{Toppings, toppings, toppings.}

I went with “The Million Dollar Shake” from the most popular shakes menu, made with Ferrero Rocher chocolates and fresh strawberries. It was too hot to get cute, I’m still reeling from my obsession with mixing chocolates and strawberries together in anything, and I thought the idea of saying “I’ll take a Miley Cyrus to-go” was silly. My guy didn’t follow the leader at all, and went customized – vanilla ice cream with peanut butter M&M’s.

Worth. The. Hype. Now I understand why milkshakes bring all the boys to the yard!

{The Million Dollar Shake, customized vanilla ice-cream with peanut butter M&M’s.}

Cupcakes and Cashmere L.A. Book Signing

Posted in Blogs, Books, Fun by

Location: Bloomingdale’s – Westfield Century City, 10250 Santa Monica Boulevard

It’s no secret that I have a Cupcakes and Cashmere addiction. I may have joined the legions of “cupcakers” a little late in the game; but within the past 2 months or so, it’s something that I look forward to reading every weekday morning. Emily Schuman has inspired thousands of young women, myself included, by turning a simple blog meant for creative fulfillment; into a full-time career, a book, and a burgeoning empire. In many ways, her daily posts remind me of the importance of celebrating being a woman (even if it’s as surface as to splurge every once in a while, hence my recent sweater purchase because I loved/deserved it!) to honoring the joy of more artful living.

{Emily and I.}

It was a warm September night as I made my way to Bloomingdale’s at Westfield Century City last Thursday. A short 30 minute wait in line, complete with catered treats (nice touch!), and a free make-up session to test out the perfect Estée Lauder foundation made the night more eventful than I had anticipated. And what can I say? Emily was as gracious and well dressed as you would expect. For the record, I did think greatly about what to wear to a simple book signing because I knew everyone would bring their A-game. I went with dark blue skinny jeans, a ruffled blouse with a fitted vest, a chunky long necklace, and my recently acquired patent leather heels.

I left the event with elevated traces of sugar in my bloodstream thanks to the 2 small treat indulgences, a picture and brief conversation with Emily, a signed copy of Cupcakes and Cashmere, a sample of Estée Lauder’s Double Wear Light Stay-in-Place Foundation, and a huge smile on my face! 🙂

{Catered treats: Banana cake-pop and a mini coconut cupcake.}

{My signed copy.}

Highlights: Farewell September

Posted in DIY, Food, Fun, Inspiration, Treats by

The last Friday of the month has arrived. As we bid adieu to September, this last week was filled with lots of smiles in the simple things:

{A little peek at a recently finished wall at home. I’ve always been a fan of wall quotes and finally got an opportunity to put up one that I love to remind myself of everyday. How appropriate this phrase seemed under my new vintage-inspired wall clock.}

{Pink roses.}

{My first homemade cup of coffee using the just released Pumpkin Pie Spice seasonal edition creamer from International Delight. Yum!}

{Finally had one of the decadent chocolate bars I stocked up on from my recent visit to Dylan’s Candy Bar. Grade: A+}

Farewell, September.

The Halloween Project

Posted in Books, DIY, Explore, Film, Food, Fun, Treats by

Believe it or not, October is just around the corner. T-minus 3 days people! I’ve decided to make Halloween a big deal this year. Why should the kids and drunk college students have all the fun? Sure, I’ve done the big West Hollywood Carnaval down Santa Monica Boulevard, your typical costume party, the Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor, the L.A. Haunted Hayride, and carved a pumpkin here and there – so I’m not a total party pooper. I manage to try to do something festive every year, but I’m committing to the festivities more hardcore to have a bit more fun celebrating this unique season by creating some “must do’s” to accomplish through-out the entire month of October. I’m dubbing it…

The Halloween Project:

1. Bake a gluten-free pumpkin pie.
2. Carve a pumpkin (naturally).
3. Decorate my apartment (which at the very least means putting up my beloved pumpkin shaped lights).
4. A scary night out with the girls. We’re still planning where, but seem to be headed to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios.
5. Scary movie night at least once a week – complete with a big bowl of popcorn and all the lights turned out.
6. Finally, I came across this list of the 10 scariest books to read for Halloween. I’m going with Midnight, by Dean Koontz. (Don’t judge!)

Happy Halloween my pretties! May all your October nights be full of terror 🙂