Saint Clare of California

Missoni for Me.....

2011-09-14T07:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Target's launch of the Missoni for Target line. I braved the 8:00 am line up outside the store as a dozen or so eager women clawed there way throughout the store in search of any Missoni item they could get their hands on.

It was nice to be able to purchase something from Missoni.....albeit a cheaper version of what one would find in Milan. I left with a winter hat and a candle that I will re use as a pencil cup when finished. So... until I can afford a trip to Milan and Missoni's fashion house my little candle will have to suffice.

The Language of Numbers............

2011-09-13T10:10:00.000-07:00

For the past couple of years I have been learning about what I would call the "language of numbers". I am the type of person to see signs everywhere..... license plate numbers.... the time on a clock.......billboards.....television shows... you name it. As a visionary, I am always looking at the horizon asking myself what's next??

Lately, I have had discussions with a few friends and have found that we are all seeing the same thing. So, for clarity sake, whether these numbers have personal meaning or apply to us corporately, here is my belief and interpretation of what they mean.

123- Everything is aligning
333- Radical change
777- Completion
444- Creative works
888- New beginnings
11:11- Transition

Here is what I feel is going on corporately........

The past few years have been great seasons of transition for many people. During these seasons, we have been prepared for what is coming. We are moving from a place and time of transition into a season of new things and new beginnings. It is the beginning of the new and the end of the old. The things that have seemed difficult to overcome or navigate will be quickly resolved. Things that have remained unclear and uncertain will begin to become clear as things align. The directions and opportunities that have seemed unclear or hidden will begin to present themselves. What we didn't think was possible will become possible. We will see the things that we have hoped and dreamed for. I feel that there is great potential to accomplish big things in this next year and to see the fruit of what we have been working towards the past couple years.

This is what I feel the year 2012 has in store for us. I know it's only September but I am ready to start my NY resolutions now!

It's My Party......

2011-06-09T08:03:00.000-07:00

.... And I will have fun if I want to. Yay! It's my birthday today... and that makes me happy.

Oui Please!

2011-06-06T19:58:00.000-07:00

I just entered a chance to win a trip to Paris... via the Blog Oh Happy Day. I am saying my prayers for a chance to win!

Image via: Jack Fussell

Road trip..........

2011-05-04T21:38:00.000-07:00

We are getting ready to plan a road trip in the next few weeks to our favorite spots in California. I love this state and feel so lucky to live here.... I have discovered that I am seriously "solar powered" and would have a really difficult time living in a place where the sun hid his face for months on end.

We are planning on visiting friends and family.. .you guys know who you are.... and taking the scenic route along the way. I am looking forward to new horizons and new perspectives..... even if it is only for a week.

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

The Brand of Me....

2011-05-01T20:23:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been learning more about the handcrafting community and really appreciating the time and energy it takes to make something. Whatever happened to the appreciation that we had for handcrafted items? Handmade shoes, clothing, jewelry, hats.... The construction of these items has been taken over by machines and while that has produced uniformity in dress and efficiency in production, I think we have really lost the meaning behind design. We do not wear ART anymore. We wear BRAND.... as a result of this we have compromised on quality and style, substituting excellence or uniqueness for a prominent logo. We have chosen "cookie cutter" over originality.

In an effort to remove myself from this movement that has become the backbone of the economics of fashion, I am now on a lifelong pursuit of the unique, the well crafted and the excellent wearable art.

Image via: My Home Ideas

Girls Gone Wild.....

2011-04-30T13:53:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's this latest feather craze that has me obsessed with these pictures but I do love the feather detailing on both of these outfits.... even if they are a little more "fallish" than summer. I think we need more animal prints in our wardrobes. Animal prints and stripes. Preferably not together. I wonder what the next animal fashion craze will be. Horns? Maybe we can start wearing horns on our foreheads like unicorns. That would be magical.

Images via: http://vi.sualize.us/

Keep calm.....

2011-04-16T15:48:00.000-07:00

Now this is my kind of poster. It's been a really long week and the weather outside is perfect. Not too hot and not too cold. It's juuuuuust right. Perfect for this solar powered Southern Californian. I am headed to the beach for a break. I mean..... it's the weekend right? When you don't have a normal 9-5 schedule you have to make time for a break. So this afternoon, I am planning a break with one or maybe two of my friends named margarita. Have a great weekend!

Image via: tumblr

Simple....

2011-04-07T10:20:00.000-07:00

If I could do one thing every day, it would be to leave the world a little bit more pretty than the day before. I would be content with that. It is that simple.

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

Becoming Coco.....

2011-04-06T08:45:00.000-07:00

I am a huge fan of all that is CHANEL. I love the classic tailored suits, fragrances, make up, leather goods, etc. ALL of it. I recently watched the movie "Coco before Chanel". The movie in part reminded me of "Becoming Jane" in that both movies explained the process that each woman went through to "arrive or become" who they ultimately became. We live in a time where it seems that people can become a success overnight and while I do believe that will happen for some of us... for the rest of us.. we will be on a journey to discover and create our own voice.

I am reminding myself of that this morning as I look at my upcoming birthday. Since it's a "real" number I have heard many people respond by saying "Wow, I did this or that by the time I reached your age." I have tried to not let the expectations or achievements of others affect me.... but sometimes they can. Regardless, I am happy where I am in life right now with what I have accomplished and what lies before me..... and to me that is enough.

Image via: CHANEL

Work space Inspiration....

2011-04-04T08:39:00.000-07:00

I am in heaven looking at this workspace. I love the colors and organization method. In just looking at this picture I can think of a dozen projects I would like to start. Can you imagine what would happen if we started converting our work spaces to areas that created inspiration rather than resembled

prison cells like the felt walls of cubicle land? I think we would be much happier and accomplish so much more! If I was still working in an office I would start by adding an antique chandelier and an upholstered armchair instead of the hideous swivel chairs that only come in one shade of black and the awful overhead lighting....maybe knock out a few walls so I could have a view as well. Kind of like this.

......Maybe add some inspirational artwork.......

So until the day comes when I can create amazing work spaces for everyone else I will just have to focus on my little corner of the 805.

Have a great Monday.

Image via: You are my fave and pinterest

Inspiration.....

2011-03-29T13:37:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I have posted anything and since I have been buried in school work I thought I would take the morning to share some images that inspire.... So here is a little photo journal of what inspires me.

Trying new recipes.

My dog. My constant companion.

A favorite scarf. A souvenir from a far away land. A great leather bag.

The smell of different perfumes that remind me of different seasons and cities I have lived in.

Ethnic prints.

Handmade beaded necklaces.

Creating new vision for the future.

Create the vision....

2011-03-27T13:43:00.000-07:00

"Where there is no vision, the people perish..." King Solomon

In the process of creating my vision for 2012. I love vision casting for the future...

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams...." Ms. Eleanor Roosevelt.

Image via: Nanette Saylor

To be an original....

2011-03-14T20:48:00.000-07:00

So it takes time to discover who we truly are. For me, it took years of reflection and travel until I finally came to understand the "me" within.The journey was painful at times but to not have committed to making that journey would have been the biggest mistake. Don't get me wrong.. there is no "arrival" point. Life is a journey and continues every moment and I am certainly not "there". I discovered that the world is a better place when we each express our own voice.... not the voice of someone else... not what we think should be our voice... but our own voice. The world is more beautiful when you express your uniqueness, thought, independence, reason and love. So... in a world that seems to value uniformity my encouragement is to value diversity. Diversity in dress, belief, communication and artistic expression. EMBRACE diversity and embrace you.

"To be, or not to be, that is the question" William Shakespeare

Image via: Alex Rau Photography

Homework....

2011-03-07T08:22:00.000-08:00

I am soo in love with the current class I am taking. IN LOVE. This past weekend, I spent a the majority of my time working on my homework assignments which included flipping through the pages of the latest Vanity Fair and W magazine and subscribing to my new favorite Town & Country or as some affectionately call it "The Bible". I have also started calling my shopping habit "market research". It seems to work when I explain to J the importance of being aware of the latest fashion trends. He graciously smiles and nods.... I feel so lucky to have him support me in my endeavor. I love you J.

Image via: Saint Clare

Simply Sweet....

2011-03-03T14:51:00.000-08:00

I am loving the sweet simplicity of this Dutch line of clothing recently introduced to the US. Their tunics and dresses are amazing....Made of the most super soft cotton. Well done BRAEZ. The US is seriously lacking in keeping up with the latest from the fashion forward northern European countries.... EXCEPT for a couple great local designers. One awesome eco conscious clothing line I love is stewart + brown.....Without them I think I would have an empty closet.... and it definitely helps that their headquartered two blocks from my house. Heidi Merrick also has an awesome line and grew up right here in Carpinteria. I love her classic style.

I am constantly impressed by the talent that exists in my little corner of sunny Southern California. I feel so blessed to live here. Well done to all artists who go after their dreams. You are an inspiration to this dreamer...

Image via: BRAEZ

Model Behavior....

2011-02-25T16:29:00.000-08:00

So I admit.... today was not one of my better days. Since starting another season of learning, moving (again) and changing jobs I have been a little... well.... STRESSED. And unfortunately for the lady behind the checkout counter at the store today, she got the brunt of my anxiety. She was rude, no doubt, but I got dangerously close to telling her off which I never do or have done to my knowledge. I ended up leaving just in time before I told her exactly what I thought of her customer service and were to put her oh-so-fake-smile.

I feel bad now because you never know what is going on in someone's life. Maybe she had a hard day too or maybe she just woke up on the wrong side of the bed.

Sigh... oh well.... I guess we can't be perfect all the time.

Image via: The Style and Beauty Doctor

Paris or bust.....

2011-02-23T08:27:00.000-08:00

Yippeee!!! J and I decided to go on another European vacation this fall. I am so excited. We have not confirmed the dates yet but I am ready to pack my suitcase. I can't wait until we get on the plane. Confession: I like plane food. Is that weird? Whatever... I think it is just because I am excited to be somewhere different. I like to order the Kosher meal.... just to throw the flight attendant for a loop. Because if it is good for the big JC it is good enough for me. You know??

Image via: http://aurevoirparis.tumblr.com/

Champagne Wishes....

2011-02-20T16:58:00.000-08:00

I just got back from the best champagne brunch with an old friend of mine. I love hanging out with her... we can talk about anything and everything and we always end up ordering the same thing to eat and drink... which in our case means mimosas and eggs benedict.

Life is fun when it is full of good friends and good food.

Happy Sunday everyone!

Image via: Gaetan Lee

Rock.. Paper... Sugar...

2011-02-17T19:51:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love seeing a hand addressed envelope in the mail? I love receiving personal mail... not the random junk that fills my recycle bin. BUT, personal mail from a lost long friend is even better.... AND international mail?! Come on! That is the best. It's like a special gift. I think we have gotten too familiar with electronic mail. Call me old school but I would take a handwritten letter any day over an email.... especially if it is written on personalized stationary....THE highest degree of elegance in my opinion. My favorite shop for personal stationary??? Check out Sugar Paper in LA. The best place for stationary or notes for that special someone. And while you are there go ahead and grab a fabulous lunch or afternoon tea from CLEMENTINE. My cousin introduced me to this amazing restaurant a couple years ago and I have been hooked ever since.

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

Easy.... Breezy...

2011-02-16T15:02:00.000-08:00

I love this picture from The Sartorialist. She looks so warm and cozy with her sweater and coffee. It reminds me of an autumn day... warm apple cider.. the start of the school season.

Image via: The Sartorialist

The Journey....

2011-02-11T21:11:00.000-08:00

Do not despise small beginnings. Today you may not be where you want to be but there is joy found in the journey. You never know what tomorrow will bring......

"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." Lao-tzu

Image via: The Ann Summer Blog

Head First.........

2011-02-10T17:22:00.000-08:00

Whoa....Whoa..... So I knew that this was a season of change but I didn't expect change to happen so quickly! Last night I felt like I was diving into new territory head first... and basically I almost threw up.... in front of an entire group of people that I had just met.

Sometimes quick change can throw you for a loop.....especially when it isn't something that you expect. Breath... just breath... everything will be OK. It's going to be good... it's going to be great.

Image via: Skinny Princess

Bloglovin....

2011-02-10T10:16:00.001-08:00

Relax and stay in bed.....Follow my blog with bloglovin

Image via: http://aurevoirparis.tumblr.com/

Greater things to come....

2011-02-09T12:56:00.000-08:00

When something ends... something new can begin. Sometimes you have to let go of the past in order to move forward. Last week marked a significant end to a chapter in my life.

Closure feels so good. Today I am starting on the next part of my journey. I am a little apprehensive but I know I am going in the right direction.

"It's a season of change. Greater things to come. Greater things to come.... the things left undone." Brian Johnson

Image via: Me and Alex Rau Photography

Freedom...

2011-02-01T21:14:00.000-08:00

This picture explains exactly how I feel at the moment. There are few environments on earth where you are free to be yourself. I have found mine... my home in the mountains.....Amongst friends and fathers and mothers. Nothing else compares to the freedom that I have found.

Image via: Around the Bend

Come up higher....

2011-01-26T16:00:00.000-08:00

I have been extremely confused over the last few weeks…. not knowing what direction to go in... and asking myself "How did I get here?" I think those questions inevitably come when you are trying to do something that hasn't been done before. Pioneering new territory is difficult.

This morning I was trying for the third time in the last few days to open a window. It was stuck for some reason... Unsuccessfully I pushed from the bottom until my arms ached. I decided to stand on the countertop and tug at the window from above. To my surprise, I discovered that the window was actually locked. LAME! No wonder I couldn't get it open…..As I jumped down from the counter I thought "Isn’t that just like LIFE.... sometimes you don’t know what is actually going on until you see the problem from a higher perspective."

Lately, I have been feeling this tug in my spirit to change my perspective... see each challenge as an opportunity... see it from a higher perspective. In situations that are new, sometimes that is the only option.

So here are a few words of wisdom from me to you. Look, Listen and Feel. Get someone else's perspective on the situation. Share your thoughts. Pray. Meditate. Breathe. It is good to see something from a different angle and know that you are not in this alone. The right path will be revealed. Clarity will come…..

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

Parachutes for sale....

2011-01-24T16:59:00.000-08:00

When I was little I used to read a book called Parachutes for Sale. The story was about twin girls who grew up during WWII in England. Their parents did not have any money during the war so to make them clothes for the summer their mother purchased parachute silk from army parachutes that had not been used. When the dresses where made, the girls found that they could jump off of stair cases and rooftops and float gently to the ground because their dresses where made out of this magic fabric. I always wanted to find a dress like the ones described in the book. Today was my lucky day! As soon as I saw the dress I knew I had to have it. I am not sure if it contains any magical properties but I do feel as light as air when I am wearing it. 100% pure silk.

If you happen to see me floating down the street... don't worry... I am just enjoying my new dress.

Image via: bigcitydreams

Goodnight Moon....

2011-01-20T18:36:00.000-08:00

Going to sleep tonight wishing I could create a tent like this on my bed. I used to create tents that would hang down from my bunk bed when I was little. Somehow it seemed like I was in another world in those tents. As an adult, I now wish for an adult version of a tent to sleep in at night. Maybe I will settle for a luxury yurt... with Persian rugs and chandeliers...

Image via: from lara

Do something creative every day.....

2011-01-19T07:53:00.000-08:00

I cannot go through a single day now without doing something creative. Whether it is making a piece of jewelry or trying a new recipe... it really doesn't matter. I am seriously ADDICTED. Every time I make something, especially jewelry, I feel like my life energy has been given a shot of vitamin C or something. I feel amazing! I have found my calling. I could never go back to a job where I sit in a cubicle staring at grey walls. This is so much better.... I think this is the start of something good.....

Image via: Sem

The WILD within....

2011-01-16T14:37:00.000-08:00

As I was attempting to tame my hair the other day with my normal routine of 6 different hair products, blow dryer and flat iron and finally hair spray, I had a memory of this girl that I admired in high school. She was this free spirit I will wear whatever I want and do whatever I want to do type of girl. Her hair was always a mess. She basically wore the same outfit everyday that showed off her curves that frankly left me to wonder how her father ever left her leave the house. She wasn't indecent or loose... she was just FREE. I admired her for her free will and spirit and carefree attitude and wondered often how she developed that attitude about life. Was it something that she was born with? Did she learn it from someone?

Anway, one day I saw her in a completely different light. She had been "tamed". Her hair was straight. She had on the appropriate clothing. I think she was even wearing makeup. It was confusing. She didn't look like herself... and honestly.. she looked... well.... sad. Like a wild horse that is forced to put on a saddle for the first time and then resigns itself to a life of servitude and forgets the life of the open range. This girl had been broken...

I am not sure what actually happened to her but looking back on it now I realize how beautiful her freedom was. Her wildness was captivating. She was naturally beautiful yes but it was her spirit and her acceptance of herself that drew people to her. There is something very beautiful about wildness. About accepting your own unique beauty.. curves..gifts...spirit.

Just thinking about that now makes me want to throw away my flat iron...and maybe 2 of my hair products.

Image via: Yimmy's Yayo

Here comes the sun....

2011-01-14T12:13:00.000-08:00

I can't believe what amazing weather we have had here in Southern California the past few days! It's like summer time right now... which is awesome because we didn't really have a summer season where I live. The sun literally hid his face for 3 months. But today is picture perfect! Perfect for an afternoon BBQ or beer and wine tasting at the local pub. If you want to find me that is where I will be this afternoon glass in hand. Cheers to the beginning of a great weekend!

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

The Simple Life....

2011-01-13T15:26:00.000-08:00

I had a dream recently, where I was vacationing at some seaside resort in France. I believe that my dream came as the result of reading a great story on French women and how they stay healthy on Amanda Goldfarb's blog Cake and Carrots (HERE). I woke up feeling incredibly happy and wondering if....until I am at a seaside resort in France... I could add a little bit of French culture to my everyday life. This thought resulted in a few hours of internet research regarding the differences between French and American culture. Not that any of this was really a surprise or contradicted anything that I had already known, but I began to realize the value of learning from different nations and how sometimes as as Americans we get caught up in thinking that our way is always better... when in fact... it may be just harder.

For example, Americans typically received two weeks paid vacation a year while the French enjoy on average four weeks of paid vacation a year. Americans attempt to limit the amount of fat and sugar we eat in almost everything. "Regular milk? No way! I will have non-fat... and please give me some form of sugar free chemical in my Starbucks latte that will give me a taste of sweetness but will not result in an extra pound on my hips". Compare this to the heavy whole milk lattes and croissants that the French are most famous for.... and by the way... can we end our day with a healthy dose of brie and camembert and don't forget the red wine? Thanks. Quality is more important than quantity and as a result they can enjoy smaller portions and eat better food.... and the miracle seems to be... that in living and eating this way, French women don't get fat.

Observe French architecture and art. Nothing screams opulence more as a stroll down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. The French appreciate beauty and what is even more refreshing... they don't apologize for it.
They can be extravagant but they practice restraint, which adds to their elegance. Overall, a very attractive culture.

So in an effort to embrace and adopt some of these attitudes in my own life I have made these resolutions:

Add more cheese and red wine to my diet
Get dressed up every once and awhile
Enjoy life more by not limiting my intake of things I love

Short and sweet.... Simple rules for a simple life.

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

Morning Meditation....

2011-01-04T09:18:00.000-08:00

God is a designer.. and if we are His children then we are designers. This makes me so happy. So today I will remind myself that I am a child of God... and that means that I am blessed with creativity.

Image via: http://iamblessed.tumblr.com/

Wishful thinking....

2011-01-02T09:40:00.000-08:00

Wishing I was here today... instead of the 805. Sigh... La pensée magique.

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

A season of change....

2011-01-01T14:10:00.000-08:00

Well.... you have to start somewhere I guess.

Resolutions. I do make them every year but this year I have decided to approach them differently. Here is my plan/rule book for the next year.

Because I am a woman....I have curves (believe it or not) and I will accept where my curves exist... specifically my thighs and butt.
I will limit my consumption of red meat.... its tough on the environment and tough on my body... so... WIN WIN.... except when Nana makes her beef stew.
I will eat more whole foods. (This means that I will try to eat as many foods as I can in their natural state... meaning that I have to give up processed foods. This includes potato chips.. Ahhh!)
I will be kinder to myself by allowing myself to take a break once and awhile..... this may mean waking up later or staying up later or a manicure every once and awhile.
I will pursue my own happiness.... and figure out what happiness means to me.
Drink less beer... but drink more red wine.
Buy a dutch oven and actually use it.
I can override any rule at anytime.

Ok... so my plan isn't groundbreaking but I think it will bring me more happiness and I do believe that is why we live in the United States right? To pursue happiness....

".....that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." Declaration of Independence 1776

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

Heavy rain....

2010-12-29T12:01:00.000-08:00

We have been blessed with rain the last few weeks here in So Cal. Living in Northern California last year I did not appreciate the rain as much as I do now. I love being able to walk through puddles in my wellington boots without the concern of ruining my shoes. I like it so much I think I might wear my wellies year round. So let it rain... let it rain.... open the floodgates of heaven.

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

Dream house.....

2010-12-27T19:39:00.000-08:00

To be completely honest.... I am extremely tired of the renting lifestyle. I have lived for the past ten years in a number of awesome houses but at this point in my life I would love to own something.... paint the walls any color I would like... and put nail holes in the wall just because I can.

Don't get me wrong. It has been nice to pick up and move anywhere at anytime. The flexibility that renting gives you is great but I am tired at looking at the same wall color day after day and not being able to create an environment around me that I love.

So... my hope is that someday within the next 5 years I will own a home. Here is a little photo gallery of what my dream house will look like.

Oh... And did I mention that I also live in Paris? Oh well... A girl can dream can't she?

Images via: http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/

Decisions.... Decisions....

2010-12-21T09:59:00.000-08:00

Now that I am done with my season in LA, I am wondering what my next step will be. At least for the next couple weeks I will be taking a much needed break.... but then... I have a few decisions to make.

Pursue another degree?
Move to another city?
Start my own thing?
Take a break for awhile?
Travel?
All of the above

Hmmm..... I think I like #6 the best.

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

Life is for those who dream.....

2010-12-18T16:32:00.000-08:00

It's my last weekend in La La Land. Ever since I was a little girl, it has been a dream of mine to live in this city. It has been quite an adventure the last few months. Although I can safely promise that I will be back.....I am not sure when that will be. Take care of yourself LA. Much love to you. xoxo

"Welcome to Hollywood! What's your dream?" Pretty Woman

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

Love came down.....

2010-12-17T14:46:00.000-08:00

Truth be told, I am very much looking forward to the end of 2010. This year has proved to be the best of times and the worst of times but each time I felt like life as I knew it was over I was rescued by LOVE....the love of a husband... friend....mentor....mother...Father. Thank you to everyone who made this year a success for me. I am here because of your love.

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

Morning Meditation.....

2010-12-16T10:02:00.000-08:00

My mantra for the morning. Trying to stay centered after a crazy night of dreaming. Planning on a good run a good movie and a good book to clear my head..... and maybe a little retail therapy.

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

Releasing Creativity.....

2010-12-15T09:54:00.000-08:00

I remember the days back when I had a "real job" and I sat in a cubicle and drank water from the water cooler. I felt so dead inside because I couldn't be express myself creatively in any way. I used to rearrange the office furniture and wall paper the walls of my cubicle with colorful handmade papers because I was sooo incredibly bored. But now I realize it was a way for me to release the creativity inside of me. I would have conversations with my boss about different things I could do for the company and every conversation would end up being disappointing. She actually told me at one point "Creativity is a hobby and is best kept for the weekend and personal time". Apparently the company I used to work for thought that they hired a robot without a brain or spirit.

Looking back now, I see that through that experience I began to realize that I had so much more to give to the world. Now I can't go through a single day without creating something.... even if its just a great dinner. We are all creative. I can't believe I allowed myself to buy the idea that there are "creative professionals" and the rest of us just do our job somehow without creativity. Don't let someone convince you that you don't have a creative spirit inside of you. Allow yourself freedom to create something. You might be surprised at what comes out.....

Image via: http://vi.sualize.us/

You gotta live your life.....

2010-12-13T10:47:00.000-08:00

Last night J and I went out for the first time in what seems like months. It was a much needed break from what has been a very intense couple of months and recent weeks. This morning I woke up with an overwhelming awareness that we are given one life to live.

I honestly feel like I have been fasting in almost every area of my life. Maybe its because the last season of my life has been so challenging. I am not really sure... but all I know is that sometime during the last year I started limiting my life in different ways. I feel my life has lost some of its vitality because I adopted a set of rules that limited my freedom to do what I wanted to do. Seriously not sure how this happened, but I feel like my personal approach to life has been so careful because I have been afraid to make a mistake. I have seen this manifest in decisions regarding what I eat, what I wear, what I buy, where I live. I have sat on the sideline of my life and have watched things happen.

So... time to make a change. Today I am ending this cycle and will start by pursuing some things that I have wanted for awhile.

"Watch out world because old Pammy is getting what she wants. " Pam Beasley, The Office

Image via: http://kezzi-rose.deviantart.com/

When life gives you lemons......

2010-12-11T12:09:00.000-08:00

Last week I was confronted with some serious news about my father. I found myself in shock as I tried to process the news that he was in the hospital and had probably had a stroke. Over the next few days I watched as he fought through many of the side effects that stroke victims experience. It was a painful few days in the hospital as we were not sure what would happen to him. Miraculously, he is now at home and has almost completely recovered.

After reeling from the news, I have found my personal recovery process a little more challenging. So... the question is "When life gives you lemons what do you do?" I have been taught a few rules in dealing with pain.

1. Accept what has happened. I accept that my father had a stroke.

2. Determine whether or not you will be OK. I will be OK.

3. Focus on what matters most. I have found comfort in connection with family.

4. Give yourself permission to rest. I will rest and recover even if that means taking time off for awhile.

5. Find strength in something or someone bigger than yourself. I trust God with my future.

This is what I have come up with so far. I will be back to normal soon.

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Glitterati.....

2010-12-02T21:16:00.000-08:00

All that glitters isn't always gold. Sometimes I look at the people I work with and I wonder "Are you happy? I mean you just pulled up in a Bentley and you are wearing a $2,000 sweater that I recognize from the December 2010 issue of Vogue and you still seem like you are in a bad mood. How can that be?"

I have realized that there is so much pressure in this city to look a certian way, to have the right things, wear the right clothes and live in the "right part of town". But even if you do or have all of the "right" things that doesn't mean that you are happy. It's wanting what you have not having what you want that equates to happiness.

And by the way- trying to fit into a certain image leaves no room for creative expression or individuality. At this point, I am actually considering throwing away everything I own that has a label on it. I want to start over.... from scratch. Toss it all out. Maybe I will start my own line of clothing.. or move to Pennsylvania and live with the Amish. At the moment I am just disappointed that in the "land of opportunity" everything seems to look exactly the same.

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Back to the Future...

2010-11-21T09:49:00.000-08:00

I am headed back down to 90210 for one more season. Looking forward to the holiday parties, decor and of course the shopping. Luckily for me I am living close to my favorite stores. I love exploring the city's eclectic boutiques and coffee shops in the hunt for that perfect gift.

Every time I drive back to the city I can't help but feel that the city itself exists in its own time dimension. Fashion forward and definitely more progressive then the rest of our fabulous state of CA.

Now.. if you will excuse me... I have to get this DeLorean up to 88 mph.

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Let them eat cake....

2010-11-11T14:45:00.000-08:00

To the naysayers and critics in life I say this "I will follow my own path and pursue my own dreams".
And to all the rest I say....... "Let them eat cake".

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Dreamland...

2010-11-04T20:21:00.000-07:00

I did not realize how tired I actually was after the insanity of last month.This little party planner has planned her last party.... off to dreamland. Sweet dreams. xoxo

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Lifestyles of the rich and the famous.....

2010-11-02T10:32:00.000-07:00

So I have fallen off the radar because for the last 4 weeks I have been in La La Land working on a short term project party planning for the housewives of 90210. I am taking a tiny break and will soon be back in the city. It has been an amazing adventure so far. I have noticed a few random things about the city since I have been living there.

1. People don't jog in LA... they run.
2. If you are driving the speed limit on the freeway you should keep to the slow lane.
3. If someone offers to pay with their American Express Black Card.... don't ask for their ID.

Every city has its quirks but I found myself quickly adapting to the heartbeat of the city. I am happy to be home for a bit of a rest and excited about the start of a new season!

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Wardrobe Essentials.....

2010-09-17T10:26:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wish I could go back to wearing uniforms like we did in grade school. Not the hideous scratchy plaid I am not sure what kind of fabric that even was skirts and oxford shirts. That's definitely not what I am talking about.
If I had it my way, this would be my uniform for the week. Fashion faux pas? Whatever. I love it. That's all that counts.

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Following the dream...

2010-09-13T20:39:00.000-07:00

I am getting ready to embark on another part of the journey. Pursuing the dream part 2....or maybe this is part 6... not really sure. Anyway I am so excited! Much to do. Thank God for Nordstrom and Trader Joe's- my "go-to" stores for provision. That's all for now...more details to follow...........

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Signs that make you wonder...........

2010-09-12T10:21:00.000-07:00

For the past few months I have been noticing the number 11 everywhere. Whether it was on a sign, receipt or the odometer in my car I couldn't get away from the number. I began to think that Someone was trying to get my attention. I discovered that the number 11 means TRANSITION. This sign just became confirmation of what I already knew I was living in.....But beyond me I have a feeling that the entire universe is in a season of transition.

Can you feel it? Whether you are starting or ending a personal project, relationship or considering different life changes I believe that we are all experiencing some transition. Seasons of change are always challenging but I have a feeling that we are moving into something BIG... bigger than we can even imagine right now. Hold on....Hang tight....It's going to be a bumpy ride! But I know things are getting better. I can feel it.......

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Color Me Happy

2010-08-28T16:13:00.000-07:00

I wish I could decorate the entire world. For now, I will focus on my own home. I love playing with different fabrics and colors. My new obsession is working with texture and playing with multiple fabrics to achieve a different look in each room. I would describe my decor style as "vintage modern". I am pretty sure I coined the term before Thomas O'Brien claimed it as his own.... but I will let him take the credit.

Sometimes I wish I went to design school instead of getting a degree in political science. I mean who needs a degree in political science anyway??? I think the only time my degree has come in handy is when I watch Jeopardy or play Trivial Pursuit. Oh well.... I am still young enough to go back to school if I need to. Regardless of what I decide, I am a huge believer in doing what makes you happy and I now realize that decorating and design makes me so soo happy. Life is too short not to pursue happiness.

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He smiled at me and I felt His gaze....

2010-08-20T12:24:00.001-07:00

It's days like today when the sun shines a little brighter and I feel like God himself has turned His face towards me.....For as long as I can remember I have always wanted a Burberry trench coat. To me, Burberry has always represented an iconic classic view of fashion. The designs are approachable, elegant and time tested...like Ingrid Bergman in Casablanca.

Today I found an unbelievable deal on a trench coat and I picked it up immediately. I kept pinching myself as I walked to the register thinking that I was at some point going to wake up from a dream. But... it was indeed real. I am so excited to be starting my fall season with something that I have always wanted and I know it will prove to be a good companion. What more could a girl ask for??

"Louis, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship." Casablanca 1942

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Standing...

2010-08-18T13:51:00.000-07:00

There are times in life where you have fought every fight,cried every tear and used every resource you have... this is the time to stand. Stand in the victory you have achieved knowing that you have fought the good fight. This picture is of Nicole Celestin, as she prays with others on a pile of rubble during morning Mass at the earthquake-damaged Sacre Coeur Catholic Church in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Even in the face of disaster and complete ruin this woman remains steadfast in her faith of something bigger or someone bigger. Today, Nicole is my example of remaining steadfast in the face of the things that life throws at you.

"The courage of life is often a less dramatic spectacle than the courage of a final moment; but it is no less a magnificent mixture of triumph and tragedy." ~John F. Kennedy

Photo credit: Chip Somodevilla, Getty Images

Wonderland....

2010-08-02T09:40:00.000-07:00

"I remember this place..... I have been here before," thought Alice.

It is amazing to me how many times in the past couple of months I have felt like Alice....minus the talking white rabbit. I now realize the significance of the dreams I had as a young girl and how they have been guideposts of my destiny. Why did it take this long to realize what my spirit already knew as truth? I wish I knew the answer to that question.

This is a new season. A season to dream and explore and pursue the things in my heart. It is never too late to be who you might have been. I look forward to the opportunities ahead of me. More on that later.....

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Dreaming with courage

2010-08-01T11:33:00.001-07:00

Making the decision to leave my job a year ago was difficult...moving to another part of the country was easy in comparison but returning to a familiar place has been the most difficult transition I have ever made. In some ways, I feel like I am playing catch up with everyone around me. Having been gone a year, I realize how quickly things can change...

I now have the opportunity to live the life I have always wanted and there are times when I feel unsure of what direction to go. I have a few decisions to make in the next couple of weeks but for now I am writing my vision for life and running towards the future. It is easy to go back to familiar in a time of transition. It takes courage to pursue your dreams.

"All of our dreams can come true -- if we have the courage to pursue them." Walt Disney. Wise words from the Father of dreaming...

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Susie Homemaker

2010-07-20T12:52:00.000-07:00

After taking a sabbatical for a year and moving back to the land of sunny SoCal I am looking forward to my next step… whatever that may be. Upon returning from our Mexican holiday, I was required to declare my current occupation in order to pass through immigration. “Good question," I thought. Scanning the options, only one fit my current situation. I circled “Homemaker” and felt my stomach leap into my throat. “How hard could this really be?” I pondered the question on the drive home and then immediately pulled out my resume the next morning looking at my work history for a confidence boost.

The truth is, I am choosing not to work right now but the thought of becoming a domestic diva sounded intimidating for some reason. Ok… Ok… I can do this. Day one resulted in a shrunken shirt that now will only fit a hand puppet or a child and a small disaster in the kitchen. Obviously, I have some learning to do.... But for now, just call me Susie.

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2 Tickets to Paradise.....

2010-06-28T14:28:00.000-07:00

I am off today for a quick Mexican holiday with J. Looking forward to sun, sand and the never ending supply of Tecate.... call me crazy but it just happens to be my favorite Mexican beer and I hear that is all the bar carries so it's a match made in HEAVEN!!!!!

We will make it back just in time to celebrate the 4th of July on the 101...... firework show included.

Pretty is as pretty does...

2010-06-20T21:24:00.001-07:00

Last Sunday I drove down to Laguna Niguel for a photo shoot with a friend of mine. It was one of those days where I just didn't feel really pretty. Why does that always seem to happen on days where I HAVE to look pretty??

As I stood there like a deer in the headlights being prompted by the photographer to contort my body into uncomfortable positions that seem to look best in the camera a thought occured to me. "Pretty is as pretty does". Thank you Forest Gump for allowing me to apply your wisdom to my own life.

The truth is that beauty is not really a feeling. It is what you draw from the inside of yourself and pull to the service, the best parts of who you are, that reveal your true beauty. As I contemplated this, I was awakened to the fact that Cindy, Naomi, Christy and yes even Heidi probably all have days where they don't feel like performing for the camera and yet at the end of the day we all admire them from a distance for their grace and yes... for their beauty. I realized then that if I want to feel pretty I must believe in my own beauty and embrace the qualities that make me truly unique.

I left the photo shoot with a deeper appreciation of my own beauty and crossing my fingers that translated to the photographer.... we will soon see!

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New Beginnings

2010-05-27T17:12:00.000-07:00

Waking up this morning, I had the impression that today was the start of something new... and it wasn't because I could see the sun for the first time in 2 weeks.