*petite insanities

Vintage Caravan Love :: PART 2

2012-03-05T15:03:00.000-08:00

We shared PART 1 of the super cute caravans from Palm Springs Modernism Week but these ones are truly one-of-a-kind. They're crazy cool and true works of art.

This completely restored caravan is truly amazing. Don't you just love the deco feel?

This 1965 Airstream Safari has been transformed into a rolling editing bay designed to serve the television and film industry. Equipped with a 42" HD TV, 4G Hot Spot, Mac Mini and Apple TV, this baby is like a modern house on wheels. Look at that kitchen complete with wine fridge, coffee machine and bar!

This custom Decoliner designed by Randy Grubb is crazy! The chassis is from a 1973 GMC motorhome, the engine from a 455 Olds. and the front cab is from a 1950 "White" C.O.E. tanker. And yes, you can drive it from the top!

And for those of you wanting the vintage feel along with that brand new smell, have no fear. Airstream is still in production and these guys are still rolling off the assembly line. I had no idea they were still producing these beautiful caravans. Isn't that kitchen fantastic?

Hope you enjoyed PART 2 of our caravan tour. They're so inspiring! We're still looking for the perfect one of our own.

{weekend in pictures} No.25

2012-03-05T08:00:00.003-08:00

{there were bike rides}

{and girl scout cookies}

{our awesome instagram magnets arrived from StickyGram and we love them}

{I was injured in a dance off}

{and we had a picnic}

{there was pink cotton candy}

{I won a giveaway from Mulberry Muse and received a sweet package of goodies}

{and hung more artwork in the reading room}

{who's that puppy under there?}

{we made greek burgers with tzatziki sauce... those are cucumbers... I heart the Slap Chop}

{and went to the movies}

I love, love, loved our weekend! Ben and I had so much fun spending time together. It's official... I'm back to work in one week. Bittersweet but grateful for the freedom to have time off once in awhile. Hope you had a nice weekend too!

Bruschetta Juice

2012-03-04T10:02:00.000-08:00

This juice is the perfect evening snack to curb those cravings. It actually reminds me of bruschetta or even a red, marinara sauce! A spicy tomato flavor with a hint of garlic aftertaste. Our house smelled delicious while whipping this one up. Vampires beware.

2 medium tomatoes

1-2 cloves garlic, peeled

20 fresh basil leaves

Enjoy! This concludes our 3 day reboot but don't fret, I'm sure there will be even more concoctions to share as my juicing venture has only just begun.

And in case you missed them, here are my other favorite juicing recipes:

Carrot Apple Ginger Juice
Great Greens Juice

Purple Power Juice

Weekly Wrap-Up

2012-03-03T09:00:00.001-08:00

I totally went blonde! Well, partially anyway. This week began with a 3 day juice detox and ended with making Loukoumades (Greek donuts). Random, right? Oh, and in case you missed it, don't forget to check out PART 1 of our vintage caravan tour!

Bloglove:
* These honest advertisements are hilarious.

* I'm so in love with this messy theme party.

* This hair tutorial video from Tiger in a Jar makes me dream of lazy, summer afternoons.

* I need more French in my life and I'm loving this chic found via lady croissant.

* Look what's coming... and rumor has it my dad made it in.

Currently obsessed with this song but the video is kinda creeping me out...

Love ya, kids!

xo

Vintage Caravan Love :: PART 1

2012-03-02T11:28:00.001-08:00

As Modernism Week in Palm Springs came to a close, we took a day to tour restored, vintage caravans and were so inspired. It's amazing how truly unique each one was. We could really see the individual personalities of the people who put so much time and love into their restorations.

For the lighter traveler, the 1946 Curtis Wright was the oldest on the tour. I love that all wood interior!

This 1959 Airstream Globetrotter, lovingly named the "Welshly," was almost completely intact when this sweet family discovered it. All appliances were in working condition and the flooring, drapes and upholstery were the only items replaced. The story goes, they purchased it via Ebay one night while enjoying martinis.

Fun fact: Each year Airstream made little adjustments to their new trailers which is why you never really see two alike. Super cute, right?

What? Bunk beds? Awesome. A fully restored 1960s Airstream Caravel with a more Scandinavian, minimalist design. This baby took five years to restore and toats around a family of four, the youngest sleeping in the top bunk. Totally jealous!

Isn't Ben the cutest? This 1959 Airstream Traveler was just a shell when it was reclaimed and restored. Look at how spacious it is!

And our very favorite! We so wanted to steal this one away and take it home with us. This 1964 Traveleze is the cutest with it's sea foam green stove and sweet wood paneling. We've already started looking for one of our own.

Hope you enjoyed our little taste of vintage travelers. Aren't you totally inspired to take one of these guys out for the weekend? There's more to come! PART 2 is just around the corner.

Purple Power Juice

2012-03-01T14:00:00.001-08:00

As we wrap up our 3 day juice reboot, I find myself thinking about this fruity concoction we enjoyed on day 2. A strong, berry burst with a bite of ginger, perfect as a morning pick-me-up. Remember, fruit is best consumed in the morning on an empty stomach because it moves through your digestive system much faster than other foods.

6 cups of concord grapes

1 green apple

1/2 cup of blackberries

2 2" pieces of ginger (I used 1 1" piece because ginger is super strong)

Enjoy!

FEBRUARY :: photo a day Wrap-Up

2012-03-01T09:00:00.001-08:00

Donzo.

Great Greens Juice

2012-02-29T17:59:00.000-08:00

After days of not so good green juice after not so good green juice, we finally found one we actually liked. A nice, refreshing cucumber and celery flavor with hints of apples and greens. If you have to go green this is the way to do it.

2 green apples

2 cups spinach

6 leaves swiss chard

1 cucumber

4 stalks celery

1/2 fennel bulb

1 bunch of basil

Enjoy!

february photo a day {25-29}

2012-02-29T12:44:00.000-08:00

25. green // 26. (Oscar) night // 27. something you ate // 28. money // 29. something you're listening to

{1-3} {4-7} {8-11} {12-15} {16-19} {20-24}

That's it! 29 days of photos from yours truly. I'll put them all together in a collage and will post it soon. Thanks for playing along and putting up with the randomness of this series. Don't forget to link yours too!

xo

natural shades

2012-02-29T08:00:00.002-08:00

Looking back at moments captured on gloomy afternoon walks and dreaming of inspiring color palettes. It's the last day of February which means lots of colors will be blooming and lots of time spent outside in the near future. The jasmine has already starting blossoming in the neighborhood and has quickly become my favorite fragrance. Hope the end of the month finds you all well.

Reboot Time ~ Carrot Apple Ginger Juice

2012-02-28T09:00:00.004-08:00

As Ben and I begin our 3 day juice reboot, we're quickly realizing how vital vegetables really are in one's daily diet. While we're taking it to the extreme and only consuming raw veggies, anyone can start by just incorporating a little into their diet each day. Micronutrients are destroyed when food is cooked and processed so don't forget to grab that apple in the morning or eat some raw carrots with lunch.

One day of juicing has already made a huge difference and I think it's something we will continue for a very long time. Of course, I plan to eat solid foods again very soon but will continue to incorporate my new, green friends in my daily diet. With that said, here's a nice juice on the sweeter side, courtesy of our reboot, to have as breakfast...

3 carrots

2 green apples

1 small, piece of ginger (about 1")

Juice, pour over ice and enjoy!

P.S. I'm hungry.

Mid-Century Modern ~ The Homes of Palm Springs

2012-02-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

Wouldn't you love to come home to one of these at the end of the day? Take a look inside of this retro home above here. Vintage trailers and caravans to come!

Countdown to the Oscars :: PART 2

2012-02-26T07:00:00.001-08:00

"War Horse"

"The Artist"

"Midnight in Paris"

"Hugo"

"Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2"

Jeff Cronenweth "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"

Emmanuel Lubezki "The Tree of Life"

Robert Richardson "Hugo"

Janusz Kaminski "War Horse"

Guillaume Schiffman "The Artist"

Michael O'Connor "Jane Eyre"

Sandy Powell "Hugo"

Lisy Christl "Anonymous"

Arianne Phillips "W.E."

Mark Bridges "The Artist"

"The Artist" Anne-Sophie Bion and Michel Hazanavicius

"The Descendants" Kevin Tent

"The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" Kirk Baxter and Angus Wall

"Hugo" Thelma Schoonmaker

"Moneyball" Christopher Tellefsen

"Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2"

"The Iron Lady"

"Albert Nobbs"

"The Adventures of Tintin" John Williams

"The Artist" Ludovic Bource

"Hugo" Howard Shore

"Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy" Alberto Iglesias

"War Horse" John Williams

"Drive" Lon Bender and Victor Ray Ennis

"The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" Ren Klyce

"Hugo" Philip Stockton and Eugene Gearty

"Transformers: Dark of the Moon" Ethan Van der Ryn and Erik Aadahl

"War Horse" Richard Hymns and Gary Rydstrom

"The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"

"Hugo"

"Moneyball"

"Transformers: Dark of the Moon"

"War Horse"

"Hugo"

"Real Steel"

"Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2"

"Rise of the Planet of the Apes"

"Transformers: Dark of the Moon"

Who are your Oscar favorites? Don't forget to check out PART 1 for more nominations. Now pop that champagne... it's Oscar night!

Countdown to the Oscars :: PART 1

2012-02-25T07:00:00.002-08:00

Oscar night is only a day away. Who will take home the little, bald, golden man? I've decided not to predict who I think will win this season but instead who I hope (in red) will. Maybe this will send positive vibes their way.

"The Artist" "The Descendants" "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close"

"The Help" "Hugo" "Midnight in Paris" "Moneyball" "The Tree of Life" "War Horse"

Brad Pitt, "Moneyball"

Jean Dujardin, "The Artist"

Demián Bichir, "A Better Life"
George Clooney, "The Descendants"
Gary Oldman, "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy "

Michelle Williams, "My Week With Marilyn"

Meryl Streep, "The Iron Lady"

Viola Davis, "The Help"

Rooney Mara, "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"

Glenn Close, "Albert Nobbs"

Martin Scorsese, "Hugo"

Terrence Malick, "The Tree of Life"

Alexander Payne, "The Descendants"

Michel Hazanavicius, "The Artist"

Woody Allen, "Midnight in Paris"

Max von Sydow, "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close"

Kenneth Branagh, "My Week with Marilyn"

Nick Nolte, "Warrior"

Christopher Plummer, "Beginners"
Jonah Hill, "Moneyball"

Octavia Spencer, "The Help"

Jessica Chastain, "The Help"

Janet McTeer, "Albert Nobbs"

Bérénice Bejo, "The Artist"
Melissa McCarthy, "Bridesmaids"

"The Artist," Michel Hazanavicius
"Bridesmaids," Annie Mumolo & Kristen Wiig
"Margin Call," J.C. Chandor
"Midnight in Paris," Woody Allen
"A Separation," Asghar Farhadi

"The Descendants," Alexander Payne and Nat Faxon & Jim Rash
"Hugo," John Logan
"The Ides of March," George Clooney & Grant Heslov and Beau Willimon
"Moneyball," Steven Zaillian and Aaron Sorkin. Story by Stan Chervin
"Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy," Screenplay by Bridget O'Connor & Peter Straughan

Now you know my favorites but I want to hear yours! What are your Oscar hopes, dreams, predictions?

P.S. Part 2 coming soon!

february photo a day {20-24}

2012-02-24T14:00:00.000-08:00

20. handwriting // 21. a fave photo of you // 22. where you work // 23. your shoes // 24. inside your bathroom cabinet

{1-3} {4-7} {8-11} {12-15} {16-19}

I adore that photo of my mother and don't you just love my goddaughter's penmanship? Please do share your photos by linking them below!

xo

Weekly Wrap-Up

2012-02-24T10:32:00.001-08:00

In preparation for Lent, this week is the last we will see of sushi, shopping and many other little vices we love so dearly. Ben and I even bought a juicer yesterday. Come Monday morning, it's detox time. I'm partially excited and partially terrified. We have a true talent for motivating one another so I see good things to come on the juicing front. I'm sure I'll be sharing some recipes with you soon! But for now...

Oscar Nominated Films I Watched:

Bloglove:
* Tokyo is calling our names thanks to Lenorenevermore.

* Kate is having a girl and I can't help but be just a little bit jealous.
* Morning Light in my Room is a new favorite.

* Old Brand New makes me miss New York to pieces.

* Best DIY ever by the inspiring Amy.

* I heart choo!

And a little pre-taste of the Oscars this Sunday...

I am so excited that Billy Crystal is going to host them again. I've always thought he was the best Academy Awards host ever. The champagne will be flowing at our house on Sunday that's for sure. Tomorrow we head back to Palm Springs for some more Modernism Week love. Hope you have an amazing weekend!

Beef & Blue Cheese Sliders with Caramelized Onion

2012-02-23T11:00:00.000-08:00

These little guys are some of the yummiest sliders ever! Thank you Christine and Denise for inviting my lonely self over on Valentine's Day, pouring me bottomless glasses of wine and introducing me to this super delicious and super easy recipe. Ben and I couldn't resist making them again and made a few tweaks of our own. Remember, you don't have to use beef. My lovely friends made them with ground turkey and they were amazing.

What you need:

1 lb. lean ground beef (Ben wants me to stress that 80/20 is the best beef to fat ratio for flavor)

6 small rolls

1/2 white onion, diced

blue cheese crumbles

1 cup olive oil

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar

2 tsp. butter

salt & pepper

ketchup (if desired)

In a small pan over medium heat, toss onions, balsamic vinegar and butter. Cover with lid but stir occasionally making sure there is constant moisture in the pan. Careful not to burn the onions. If moisture is escaping you might need to turn down the heat or add a little water. When the onions are brown and flimsy (about 15 minutes), they're ready.

Salt and pepper beef to taste and form into six small patties. Throw them on the grill for about 5 minutes per side, turning only once. When the juices run clear when pressure is applied, they're done.

Cut each roll in half, dip the inside edges in a plate of olive oil and transfer to a clean plate. note: don't do this too early or the oil with soak through the entire roll. Put these on the grill for about 3 minutes just as the beef is coming off. Keep an eye on them so they don't burn.

Place beef patties on rolls, add a small spoonful of blue cheese crumbles and some onions. I love them with a dab of ketchup. Enjoy!

Serves 2 (3 sliders each)

Palm Springs Iconic Home Tour

2012-02-22T08:00:00.002-08:00

As some of you may know, this week is Modernism Week in Palm Springs, California and we had the unique opportunity of touring the newly named historic site, the Menrad House, designed by William Krisel. It was the perfect balance of casual flow and minimalist simplicity. All I can say is I wanted to move in right then and there.

Loving this retro design and those clerestory windows allowing for all of that natural light without sacrificing ones privacy. That artwork is fantastic and the bedding in that master bedroom... love.

This patio cover is to die for. A genius way to provide a bit of shade without feeling closed in. The design is so simple but the overall effect is absolutely stunning.

Apparently, these homes sold so fast that a brochure was never even produced to promote them. I snapped a few shots of the neighboring houses and will share them soon. Next up, a tour of vintage trailers and caravans on Saturday. Can't wait to get inspired for when we start our caravan restoration project... someday. Hope your week is treating you well.

Information courtesy of the Palm Springs Modern Committee.

hello, bird

2012-02-21T10:20:00.000-08:00

you are cute...

...when you're not trying to eat my sandwich.

{weekend in pictures} No.24

2012-02-20T07:00:00.001-08:00

{had a super yummy lunch at sweet butter in Sherman Oaks}

{had my first iced chai of the year}

{went on a walk around the lake}

{there were a lot of ducks}

{ducks better recognize}

{we made a really nice lunch on sunday - recipe coming soon}

{and I reorganized all of our kitchen cabinets}

{this is what $200 worth of tea looks like... ugh}

{we scored this awesome deer bust}

{and bought the coziest blankets in the history of cozy blankets}

{cooper likes them}

{so does ben}

{so do my toes)

We had a super productive (and super expensive... oops) weekend but it was nice getting some things done around the house and spending time with my boys. There were so many pictures I actually had to pull a few out of this post!

Lots going on this week. At this very moment we're heading to Palm Springs in celebration of Modernism Week. We're going on a tour of the Menrad house, built in 1957 and I can't wait to see it up close. I'll be sure to share photos soon. Hope your week has gotten off to a great start!

february photo a day {16-19}

2012-02-19T17:15:00.000-08:00

16. something new // 17. time // 18. drink // 19. something you hate to do

{1-3} {4-7} {8-11} {12-15}

Don't forget to link up with yours!

Dinner with Dean

2012-02-19T07:00:00.000-08:00

This is how real men eat burgers. Dean Martin was the king of suave with those sexy, black curls and that velvet voice. I can't help but swoon whenever I hear That's Amore, or smile at Ain't That a Kick in the Head?. I can totally imagine Dean devouring these complete with TV tray. He was the man.

recipe // poster

Moonrise Kingdom

2012-02-18T10:12:00.000-08:00

Um... I so cannot wait for this...

Weekly Wrap-Up

2012-02-17T14:00:00.003-08:00

Oh, what a week! Mine was filled with afternoons at the movies, nights alone with my thoughts, card games with friends and fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies. Not sure what lies ahead this weekend but I'm looking forward to sharing my time off with my two favorite boys.

Oscar Nominated Films I Watched:

Bloglove (lots to share this week):

* I have a new love for pink depression glass.

* This little video advertisement for balloons is super cute.

* Ben and I plan to purchase our very own my roots lie here print shared by Down and Out Chic.

* Go bold or go home (think I can convince Ben that a little hot pink in the living room might be awesome?).

* This is glamorous takes us away to barcelona, spain

* Dear Photograph, a new favorite found via hellovanny.

* Can't resist Becky's bloody valentine cupcakes.

* Um... wow... who would have thought that painting a couch could look so amazing?

* Books for tall people.

And in honor of Valentine's Day here's one of the sweetest love montages I've ever seen. Thank you, Lisa for reminding me of how much I love this. WARNING: You will almost definitely cry while watching this.

Have an amazing weekend and remember, Valentine's Day isn't really over so if you weren't able to celebrate with your special someone, take a moment to do a little something together this weekend. The added bonus: the service in restaurants will be better than they were on the 14th, if you're in LA the traffic will absolutely be more bearable and not having to wake up early for work the next day is a nice excuse for a little more... ahem... lovemaking?

a date with scott c.

2012-02-17T08:00:00.008-08:00

Today at 12PM PST (3PM EST) the very talented Scott C. of The Great Showdowns will be painting a new showdown and has invited anyone who wants to watch to do so via livestream. Seriously... awesome.

If you're familiar with this brilliant artist then you know what I'm talking about when I say how utterly excited I am to witness him in action. Here are just a few of his recent renditions as well as some of my favorites. See if you can guess each film.

Wondering what film he's going to paint today? Be sure to watch him in action here!

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~ my heart melting ~ no. 5 ~ the chrysler building

2012-02-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

When Ben and I traveled to New York last October we had a fleeting love affair with the Chrysler Building. As soon as we reached the front door on Lexington Avenue I saw that art deco architecture up close and knew I had fallen in love. I looked at the doorman and said, "Can I go inside?" He smiled and nodded, "Of course," motioning to the door.

I felt like I was being transported into another time walking into that stunning building and as we explored every corner we knew that moment would be one we'd always remember.

:::I snapped this shot using my polaroid sx-70 land camera on color shade film:::

{the other lovely photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6}

february photo a day {12-15}

2012-02-15T17:11:00.000-08:00

12-inside your closet // 13-blue // 14-heart // 15-phone

{1-3} {4-7} {8-11}

The Sexy Men of GQ Magazine

2012-02-15T08:00:00.001-08:00

ryan gosling, robert pattinson, michael fassbender, ian somerhalder, shia labeouf, justin timerlake & jimmy fallon,

ewan mcgregor, robert downey jr., johnny knoxville, bradley cooper

My very favorite GQ men. All dressed up and sexier than ever. I have a crush on each and every one. My current favorites: Ryan Gosling and Bradley Cooper. Which one is your favorite?

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T13:09:00.000-08:00

{via}

"love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies." ~aristotle

"at the touch of love everyone becomes a poet." ~plato

{via}

"the course of true love never did run smooth." ~william shakespeare

"thou art to me a delicious torment." ~ralph waldo emerson

{via}

"love is the irresistible desire to be desired irresistibly." ~robert frost

{via}

Hope you're spending this Valentine's Day with someone special.

{weekend in pictures} No.23

2012-02-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

{baked yummy bread in the oven thanks to an easy recipe shared by Crystal}

{devoured oysters while looking over the ocean with my aunt and uncle}

{Cooper's (and ours too) friends came over for a visit}

{and a lot of pizza was consumed}

{oh... and the cupcakes I baked earlier too}

{sent valentine's love to my peeps}

{and scored some pretty cool stuff at an estate sale}

{Ben made me Sunday morning blueberry pancakes... it's kind of becoming a tradition}

There was also sushi this weekend but we ate it too fast to photograph. We completely vegged out on Sunday watching more movies than people should in one day, devouring way too much not so good for us food and not doing a lick of anything productive. And you know what... It was totally worth every second.

Oh! And congratulations to Kamie and Levi and their bouncing, baby boy born late last night! Happy Birthday, Mason! We love you and can't wait to meet you!

Etsy ♥ ~ valentine's day PART 2 {card love}

2012-02-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

Sorry about that last one... I couldn't help it and had to throw it in.

Last chance to pick up a card for that special someone in your life. Probably too late to order any of these but they're too cute not to share and might even inspire you to create one of your own. I bought the zombie postcards and shipped them off yesterday to the awesome people in my life.

No matter what you give, I'm a big believer that it's the thought that counts. Especially when you're not expecting anything at all and suddenly receive a special (no matter how small) surprise.

*Click images for source.

february photo a day {8-11}

2012-02-11T09:31:00.000-08:00

8. sun // 9. front door // 10. self portrait // 11. makes you happy

I'm actually enjoying this more than I thought I would! Check out these other bloggers' renditions and don't forget to link up with yours!

Katie's Pencil Box & My Dear Watson

xo

P.S. Click here for all of my shots so far.

Weekly Wrap-Up

2012-02-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday! I guess everyday is Friday for me lately (not working and all that fun stuff). This week we went to the outlet mall and picked up a french oven from Le Creuset, these snazzy shoes and a lot of other goodies. We overindulged a little bit but sometimes it's nice to spoil yourself from time to time.

Oscar Nominated Films I Watched:

Bloglove:

* This photo series shared by Veda House reminds me of my dreams.

* Happy days... make sure to play the music.
* Loving this kate spade video via Active for Fashion.

* A great blogger tip from Wonder Forest.

* Hula Seventy displays what's not so impossible with IMPOSSIBLE Project's new film.

* Check out this refreshing and helpful post from Seablanket.

I have no idea what the hell is going on in this video but I've been diggin' the song this week. Whenever I hear the chorus it reminds me of an 80s movie montage...

...which is awesome.

This weekend is going to be super awesome if not for one reason... The Walking Dead returns on AMC! Have an amazing weekend!

xo

Retro Love

2012-02-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

How cool are these Smeg Retro Fridges from Appliances Online?! Vintage and candy colors go hand in hand and these pretty, little fridges are no exception. I wouldn't even know how to pick a color but I think that mint green one might be my favorite.

1 / 2 / 3 / 4

They're totally functional with plenty of storage, especially if you're a fresh-food kinda family like we are. I'm loving that they even come complete with a wine rack inside. Swoon.

Which one is your favorite?

xo

february photo a day {4-7}

2012-02-07T18:21:00.000-08:00

4. a stranger // 5. 10am // 6. dinner // 7. button

Don't forget to link up with yours!

{weekend in pictures} No.22

2012-02-06T09:12:00.000-08:00

{our new couch arrived... now time for a new rug, tables, etc, etc}

{we went to a movie;
I managed to talk ben into getting his own ICEE so he wouldn't drink mine like he always does}

{I hand-modeled for Crystal which was both painful and fun}

{attended orientation to volunteer at the animal shelter... this is winter and I adore her}

{there was chick-fil-a}

{and lots of tea}

{and of course, a super bowl party with this crazy dip concoction}

This weekend went by way too fast. I can't believe it's already Monday and Ben is already back to work. I have a lot to catch up on this week. What was the highlight of your weekend?

2012-02-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

I've fallen in love with the idea of a completely eclectic teacup and saucer collection. The more ornate, flowery and unique the better. Then I could have a sweet tea party and invite all the lovelies in my life. Aren't these photos inspiring?

I've found a few shops to get me started here, here and here. What's your favorite?

*click images for source.

february photo a day {1-3}

2012-02-04T08:00:00.000-08:00

1-your view today // 2-words // 3-hands

Here's the first few days of my February Photo a Day Challenge.

That last one is a preview of a photo shoot I did with a friend. It was a total coincidence that she asked me to be a hand model for her on the very same day the challenge photo was hands. Crazy right?! My photo does not do her shoot justice so keep an eye out; her shots are coming soon and they are a-m-a-z-i-n-g.

If you're doing the photo challenge too please post a link in the comments section so I can see your interpretations!

xo

Weekly Wrap-Up

2012-02-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

Hello, February! Isn't it funny that people who go to Starbucks all the time don't refer to their beverages by their actual name (ie: Chai, Mocha, etc.) but instead just call them "Starbucks"? I've always found that amusing.

This week went by super fast. We went to the movies a couple of times, won third place ($10 bar tab) on trivia night and got a new couch (pictures coming soon; probably in this weekend's edition of weekend in pictures). I have a busy weekend ahead but will hopefully get a chance to tackle more of my to-do list.

Oscar Nominated Films I Watched:

Bloglove:

* SF Girl By Bay reminds us that Modernism Week is about to begin in Palm Springs!

* Joan feeds my floor plan obsession with a peak at hers.

* Totally in love with this chalkboard door.
* Amy motivates us to love ourselves.

* Another breathtaking piece of eye poetry from the lovely Irene.

* A very touching post about the good and the not so good moments that make us who we are.
* Some very inspiring inspiration notebooks.

* A photo of our visit to the Best Friends Animal Shelter opening made it on their site!

I think I need to stay at this hotel in Palm Springs solely for this video. I wish I knew where they run off to at the end...

I'd also like to say hello to all you new readers out there! Thank you for making my blog a part of your day. Enjoy your weekend! What are your plans?

xo

Etsy ♥ ~ valentine's day edition

2012-02-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

Had to add that last one... it's just too cute. Click on images to buy.

FEBRUARY :: photo a day challenge

2012-01-31T15:50:00.000-08:00

I'm in! Found this challenge created by Fat Mum Slim via Kate and totally had to join. Projects like these can be so motivating! My goal for this challenge is to not take each day too literally and try to be creative.

Starts tomorrow! Anyone else up for the photo a day challenge?

xo

santa monica {to} malibu

2012-01-31T10:00:00.000-08:00

Last week Ben and I spent the day driving up the PCH from Santa Monica to Malibu stopping to take photos with my favorite polaroid camera along the way. Ben was too sweet pulling over abruptly whenever I saw the "perfect" shot. He even received a lovely parking ticket while in the car waiting for me... oops. But the highlight was totally spending time walking along the beach together.

How can you not love this guy?

{weekend in pictures} No.21

2012-01-30T10:34:00.000-08:00

weekend in pictures is back! yesssssssssssss.

{there was goofiness with melanie}

{the hugest ahi sandwich ever}

{an unscheduled, late-night comedy club outing with melanie & anthony}

{and yes... there was frozen yogurt}

{have I mentioned that I adore this guy}

{cooper had a play date with his buddy, remy}

{they look like they could be related}

{ben made blueberry pancakes}

{and we visited the new best friends animal shelter}

{went to the champagne bar for christine's birthday}

{followed by the "lay-down" theater for a late-night showing of mission: impossible}

It was a super-full weekend but so much fun! What did you do this weekend?

xo

VALENTINO prêt-à-porter

2012-01-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

I've been seeing a lot of buzz about Valentino's Haute Couture Spring/Summer collection but it's safe to say that I've totally fallen in love with the Ready To Wear Spring line. I'm loving the solid colors, clean lines and fresh feel. It helps that I'm a total sucker for black and white simplicity. What's your favorite spring collection this year?

xo

SEXIEST DAD YET

2012-01-28T14:10:00.000-08:00

I've been following DAD'S ARE THE ORIGINAL HIPSTERS for quite sometime and have even submitted a few of my own (they're super awesome but unfortunately have yet to make the site). They've posted some pretty awesome hipster dads in the past but this one has got to be the sexiest dad yet...

Just felt the need to share. Check out more hipster dads here.

xo

Bizarre Fashion: The Strangest Outfits of 2011

2012-01-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

Nisha from Pretty Small Shoes asked to do a guest post on the bizarre outfits of 2011. When it comes to clothes, I tend to go for the more obscure styles so while I actually like some of the weirdness she advises we should avoid, I think it's nice to get a different perspective from time to time. Fashion is a relative thing so if it makes you feel good then I say do it! With that said, here's Nisha!

Fashion can be an excellent way to express yourself, but it can also make you look strange and bizarre if you do it incorrectly. There is no perfect way to avoid a fashion faux pas, but saying that, here are a few looks from 2011 that you should avoid if you do not want to seem overtly weird.

• Color-blocked Outfits: While this trend is considered retro and vintage by many, it can also make people look larger than they really are. This is a look that was popular in the 70s and 80s, so it is up to you to decide if this is something that you want to embrace or discard as being too strange to bring back into style. The reason it is considered strange is the bright, almost garish colors and prints. You will stand out and be noticed in a trend such as this one, that’s for sure.

• Adding Strange Accessories to A Look: Flat platform shoes had a resurgence of popularity in 2011, but many style makers have determined that this is not a good look and prefer their pretty small shoes. It comes from the 90s, and the shoes are considered difficult to walk in. As part of an outfit, this might be fun for some people, but generally looks strange on most people as it does not add any lengthening effects to the legs. Another accessory that has come back to be strange is the visor. While golf aficionados might enjoy this look, most people living and working in the real world should avoid looking like they are going to be involved in a sporting activity in the next few minutes of their lives. It isn’t a flattering look, which is why it is strange as a 2011 trend.

• Pajamas for Daytime: This is a trend from 2011 that most people in real life can not pull off without looking like they escaped from a hospital or mental institution. Pajamas are great for sleeping in, but when you bring them to everyday life they look strange because it does not look like you got dressed in the morning.

• Dresses or Skirts That Are Shorter in Front: We are talking a lot shorter here than a normal dress. This fashion outfit is strange because it does not flatter that many figures and ends up looking frumpy from the back and too revealing from the front. The mismatch in lengths makes the outfit look confused, which is never a good look to have.

• Adding Shorts to Outfits: Shorts are great for the spring and summer, of course. They have a purpose in casual wear and can help keep you cool when it is hot outside. When shorts start being brought into dressier occasions, especially as Bermuda or board shorts, it is not necessarily a flattering or professional look. Bermuda and board shorts were created for the beach or for traveling to tropical locations, not for wearing in the office. This trend looks strange because part of it is straight out of the 80s or 90s, and does not match the dressier parts of the outfit, such as blazers, that it is paired with.

• Dressing like British Royalty: This was a definite fashion trend of 2011 that some people managed to pull off well while others did not. Due to a large British Royal Wedding, many women decided to begin to emanate the look of royalty. This was done with fitted suits, large hats, and stylish dresses. The outfits are not necessarily strange in themselves, but dressing in these outfits simply because they are trendy can be considered slightly bizarre behavior.

My name is Nisha Sharma I represent a site called Pretty Small Shoes. I love to write about fashion and design.

Weekly Wrap-Up

2012-01-27T09:35:00.000-08:00

Those of us in Los Angeles witnessed an amazing sunset this week.

Things that I tackled on the list:

*redecorating the reading room {still a work in progress}

*hung some artwork

*polaroid love

Oscar Nominated Films I Watched:

Blogland:

* Matt takes Katie out to lunch in this absolutely beautiful video.

* Loving the way Anna's displaying her Project Life photos.

* The Veda House introduced me to BLOGMILK. How did I ever survive before this?

* Found this awesome closet clean-out idea via loveelycia.

* Absolutely loving Barbara's vintage family photos.

* The lovely lenorenevermore shared this very cool approach to food styling & photography.
* And The Beauty Dept. has great tips on how to feed your face.

And... We finally watched Blue Valentine awhile back (why did I wait so long?!) and it was amazing. I stumbled across this funny video while attempting to find my favorite scene from the film. Hilarious.

Have a lovely weekend!

tea obsession

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

Those of you who know me know I should probably be a member of Starbucks Anonymous. They say the first step is to admit that you have a problem. So, in an effort to avoid consuming their yummy beverages too often while I'm on my hiatus from work, I've re-kindled my love affair with tea. Not only does it increase my daily water intake but it's also a far cry from the amount of calories I consume in those lattes. My current favorites are...

TEAVANA

A blend of their White Ayurvedic Chai Tea and their Samurai Chai Mate Tea

Smells absolutely heavenly and has a spicy but subtle bite

ALLEGRO

Pomegranate Green Organic Tea

So smooth and super yummy with a touch of milk

THE REPUBLIC OF TEA

Cardamon Cinnamon Tea

An old favorite and perfect with honey

TAZO

Passion Tea

Super fruity and best over ice

Yum. What are some of your favorites?

~ my heart melting ~ no. 4 ~ tattoo edition

2012-01-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

*click images for source

*petite insanities

Vintage Caravan Love :: PART 2

{weekend in pictures} No.25

Bruschetta Juice

Weekly Wrap-Up

Vintage Caravan Love :: PART 1

Purple Power Juice

FEBRUARY :: photo a day Wrap-Up

Great Greens Juice

february photo a day {25-29}

natural shades

Reboot Time ~ Carrot Apple Ginger Juice

Mid-Century Modern ~ The Homes of Palm Springs

Countdown to the Oscars :: PART 2

Countdown to the Oscars :: PART 1

february photo a day {20-24}

Weekly Wrap-Up

Beef & Blue Cheese Sliders with Caramelized Onion

Palm Springs Iconic Home Tour

hello, bird

{weekend in pictures} No.24

february photo a day {16-19}

Dinner with Dean

Moonrise Kingdom

Weekly Wrap-Up

a date with scott c.

~ my heart melting ~ no. 5 ~ the chrysler building

february photo a day {12-15}

The Sexy Men of GQ Magazine

Happy Valentine's Day

{weekend in pictures} No.23

Etsy ♥ ~ valentine's day PART 2 {card love}

february photo a day {8-11}

Weekly Wrap-Up

Retro Love

february photo a day {4-7}

{weekend in pictures} No.22

{{time for tea}}

february photo a day {1-3}

Weekly Wrap-Up

Etsy ♥ ~ valentine's day edition

FEBRUARY :: photo a day challenge

santa monica {to} malibu

{weekend in pictures} No.21

VALENTINO prêt-à-porter

SEXIEST DAD YET

Bizarre Fashion: The Strangest Outfits of 2011

Weekly Wrap-Up

tea obsession

~ my heart melting ~ no. 4 ~ tattoo edition