Merry Christmas & Happy Hanukkah

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A very belated happy holidays to all of you out there! I had to dash out of LA earlier then expected (Seattle snow days will get ya!) and had no time to post with all the celebrating with family and friends! Here's hoping Santa brought you lots of goodies, the food was plenty and the love of friends and family surrounded you!

Here's to 2009!

Gift Giving #12: Wrapped with Love in a Robe

I received a very cute, short white terry cloth bathrobe from my parents my junior year of college. That puppy traveled with me from Pullman (2000), to Washington to both of my apartments in California (2008). It was still intact (barely) but had been washed one too many times and with items that bled in the washer. No longer white, no longer new, it was tattered and in desperate need of retirement. One day shopping at Bloomingdale's I noticed this adorableHoneydew Striped Robe (see below) and since it was on sale, I plucked it up and brought it home to me. Let’s just say that the new robe did not go unnoticed by my friends.

This bathrobe is not only ultra feminine but it is so soft and cute enough to answer the door in.

Stripes too bold for your giftee? How about a Robe fit for a queen, princess or whatever royalty you are purchasing for. This Juicy Couture Gift Robe is ruffles, and terry and embroidered – Oh My!

Arden B’s Ruffle Edge Robe is similar to the Honeydew Robe but all solid and all out cute!

Now if terry cloth is just not warm enough for your lucky friend, this Fleecy Little Robe from Victoria’s Secret should definitely do the trick.

Enjoy, stay warm and learn from me…tattered robes are just wrong in so many ways!

Cheers!

Happy Birthday Lindsay!

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Happy Birthday to my girl Avery Bleu. Can't wait for the year ahead! It's sure to be a good one! XOXOXOXO

Gift Giving #11: I've Got My Coat To Keep Me Warm

As I brace myself for the chilly, beyond cold weather that I will be encountering next week in Seattle, I realized that I must share my most recent purchase that not only keeps me comfy, cozy, and warm but also stylish and fancy. If you have a cold weather friend that can never seem to find her jacket, pick her up this Classic Pea Coat (the cream is the perfect winter white)from Forever 21. Totally affordable, stylish and it looks WAY more expensive then it really is.

Cheers!

Happy Birthday Kare!

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Happy Birthday Karen! Can't wait to celebrate and get happy tomorrow! XOXOX

Gift Giving #10: Jet Setting

For that glamorous, fabulous travel buff of yours, nothing will please her more than these accessories from JCrew.


This Mirror-Metallic Luggage Tag will shine bright as it makes its way down the baggage claim. TSA might speed them through the line faster when they flash this Mirror-Metallic Passport Cover. And once they are on the plane, they can sip their champagne, catch some shut eye and have some serious Caviar Dreams which they can jot down quickly upon landing.

Whether you gift one, two or all three….you are sure to get a first class hug and smile.

Cheers!

Recipe Swap 2008!

Shelby is hosting Christmas with her family this year and had a marvelous idea for everyone to post a recipe that was a smashing success.

My recipe to share is Martha Stewart's Butternut Squash & Sage Lasagna. I made this recipe a few weeks back and now whenever we have a potluck, I get requests to make this delish dish.

It wasn't too difficult, but I definitely wouldn't say it was a piece of cake. Lots of prep (especially since I made individual dishes). But it was definitely worth all the hard work!

Butternut Squash & Sage Lasagna:
*3 1/2 pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch pieces
*2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
*Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
*1 pound whole-milk ricotta cheese
*1/2 cup heavy cream
*2 large egg yolks
*1/2 pound fresh mozzarella cheese, coarsely grated (2 cups)
*Freshly grated nutmeg
*2 tablespoons unsalted butter
*1/3 cup loosely packed fresh sage leaves, coarsely chopped
*1 1/4 cups homemade or store-bought low-sodium chicken stock
*Fresh Lasagna Noodles, (you will need only 1/2 of the batch), cut into 4-by-13-inch strips and cooked, or store-bought dried noodles, cooked
*4 ounces finely grated Parmesan cheese (1 1/4 cups)

Directions:
*Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Toss squash, oil, and 1 teaspoon salt on a baking sheet. Season with pepper. Bake until light gold and tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool.
*Reduce oven temperature to 375 degrees. Combine ricotta, cream, yolks, mozzarella, and a pinch of nutmeg in a medium bowl. Season with salt.
*Melt butter in a small saute pan over medium-high heat. As soon as it starts to sizzle, add sage, and cook until light gold and slightly crisp at edges, 3 to 4 minutes.
*Place squash in a medium bowl, and mash 1/2 of it with the back of a wooden spoon, leaving the other 1/2 in whole pieces. Gently stir in sage-butter mixture and stock. Season with salt and pepper.
*Spread 3/4 cup of ricotta mixture in a 9-cup baking dish. Top with a layer of noodles. Spread 1/2 of the butternut squash mixture over noodles. Top with a layer of noodles. Spread 1 cup of ricotta mixture over noodles. Repeat layering once more (noodles, squash, noodles, ricotta). Sprinkle Parmesan over ricotta mixture.
*Place baking dish on a rimmed baking sheet, and bake until cheese is golden and bubbling, 30 to 35 minutes. Let stand for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.



Bon Appétit!

Now it's your turn! Post one (or more) of your favorite holiday recipes on your blog to share with the rest of us. Be sure to leave a comment here so we know where you're at and what to look for. And be sure to encourage all of your blog followers to post their recipes and so on and so on.

Thanks for the fun idea Shelbs!

Gift Giving #9: Holiday Night Eyes

With the holidays, come many parties and any excuse to dress up. The sparkly the better is my philosophy! With the pretty glow from all the holiday lights it seems just too fitting to give that flashy girlfriend of yours CARGO's Holiday Nights Collection. The smokey shadows, petal pink blush and glitter eyeliner is sure to be a hit in this cute little palette. No longer will your friend need to find all the right shadows, cause this little guy has got her covered! And you needn't worry that this gift will leave you unable to stay out all night, cause at an affordable $25, you can enjoy the night out with her.

Cheers!

Song Of The Week: White Christmas

My absolute favorite holiday movie is White Christmas with Bing Crosby, and I am also a really big fan of The Drifters version of the infamous song, which always makes me think of Home Alone (another holiday must).

So whether you really get a White Christmas (I am crossing my fingers that I get one in Seattle) or you just enjoy the song....have a holly jolly Christmas - 10 Days left!!

Happy Holiday Weekend!!

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I am a lucky lady to have my girlfriend Lisa in town visiting and a birthday celebration full of girly time (which are sure to lead to cozy, hungover time chillaxing). Have a glorious weekend and good luck finishing any shopping you have left!

XOXO

Gift Giving #8: Bag Lady

Still trying to find the perfect Secret Santa gift? On a limit of under $25? You needn't worry my loves...The Lillian Tote is sure to please a range of people from the Olsen Twins to Jessica Simpson. All at an affordable price and seriously luxurious looking.

It's all in the bag.....Cheers!

Gift Giving #7: Silver and Gold

I am seriously head over heels in love with these Rachel Leigh Capsule Rings. Simplistic, classic and elegant these 7 bands can be worn all together or in any combination the wearer fancies.

Who ever said you couldn't wear silver and gold together CLEARLY hadn't seen these rings.

Cheers!

Gift Giving #6: Wine is Fine

Williams-Sonoma has created a magnificent Wine Club just in time for that tricky person left on your list this holiday season. Wine snob, wine enthusiast or beginner alike can become a member of the perfect wine club for them. The Explorer starts at $90, The Entertainer $180, The Connoisseur $180 and The Six Bottle Fine wine Club at $360. Just read the description of each club, select the right price for you and viola! A few bottles will be delivered right to their door throughout the year complete with a message from you and a recipe to compliment the wine they received.

This gift is sure to leave everyone with a taste that they won’t spit out and a bit of good cheer throughout the year!

Gift Giving #5: In a Clutch

With all the parties happening here and there, a flashy, and fun clutch is definitely needed to keep the spirit bright. This adorable Felix Ray Mesi Clutch is perfection in every way. Flashing gold, a pop of color and leopard interior. Perfect for that gal that is glamorous and has everything else! As an added plus it can be used for any occasion even after the holidays!

Cheers!

Gift Giving #4: Office Gifts for the Lips

In the winter, keeping your lips hydrated, soft and kissable can be a bit of a task. Also tricky is finding little gifts to give to your co-workers without breaking the bank. Lucky for ya’ll Sephora’s The Life of the Party Tootsie Roll Lip Balm Set can get both jobs done and is sure to get you office Cheers all around and lips soft enough to kiss under the mistletoe.


For $38 you get nine lip gloss tins (with SPF 15) that are perfect to keep around for that last minute gift you forgot to get. They also make adorable additions to gift wrapping and last but not least, make a fantastic stocking stuffer.

Kisses!

Song Of The Week: Santa Baby

Since I was a little girl I have always loved Santa Baby by Madonna at the Holidays. Her voice is just too cute and pouty and it is one of those songs I can (and do) listen to over and over every Christmas time. I know that there are many other versions out there but I will argue that this is the best version yet.

What do you think? Madonna's version, Pussycat Dolls version or the original Eartha Kitt version?

Also, I got some great songs to add to your listening list this season....

* Jackie recommended Christmas All Around by Billy Mack from Love Actually and I have to say it is PERFECT!!!

*Newport Nuptials enjoys Britney Spears My Only Wish (This Year)

*Emilee and Caity Of The Keps both enjoy I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas which I hadn't heard of until last week. Cute and funny!

Gift Giving #3: Forever Frugal Friday Finds

With the economy the way it is, gift giving can get a little tricky and risky come this holiday season. Luckily, you can find many gifts for most people on your list that are affordable and still stylish and fabulous.

This yellow Fab Crochet Beret will not only keep you looking chic but also take care of that hot head you (or your friend) may have.

Carrie Bradshaw may be the only one able to wear that vintage studded belt from the SATC movie, but this Pyramid Stud Belt is sure to please any SATC fan.

Britney is sure making a comeback and featured on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine looking glamorously sexy in a simple grey tee, which you can replicate easily with this Heathered Pocket Top that everyone should really have in their closet.

And just in case, your friends still isn’t sporting the hottest accessory around, pick her up this Metallic Detail Scarf which festive enough for the holidays but pretty and bright enough to carry on into spring.

All of the goodies above are under $15 and would be welcomed into any home. All of the gifts above also would make great donations gifts to your local shelter or collection agency.

“Tis the Season to give!

Cheers!

Gift Giving #2: Scent-Sational Gifts

Besides the music, lights, holiday scents are the my next favorite part of the season. I cannot get enough of the yummy goodness that comes in a form of a candle, hand soap or room freshener. I just take a big whiff, close my eyes and say...."mmmm".

Lots of love and joy is spread over the holidays, as are germs and colds (wah-wah). Help fight the latter of the two by giving the gift of good smelling and most importantly clean hands and house.

The Williams-Sonoma Pure & Green Peppermint Snow Collection will leave your hands smelling fresh and minty clean. Wiping down the counters has never smelled better with Method's Spiced Pear All Surface Cleaner. If you prefer a less minty approach and a more warm and fuzzy scent, Bath & Body Works Vanilla Bean Noel Hand Soap & Lotion is sure to please your guests.

With Holiday parties filling up your calendar left and right, trying to find the right host/hostess gift can be a bit difficult. Also difficult, is achieving that fresh cut tree scent with a fake Christmas tree. Fear not...these scent-sational home scents will fulfill both problems.

The Illume Mulled Wine Reed Diffuser not only smells amazing, but also is rather pretty and festive. I am a huge fan and believer in Bath & Body Work's ScentPort. This baby REALLY works. My bedroom smells delish and has left me curious about the ScentPortable for another other space that may require some sprucing up. Another pretty and effective way to infuse scent all around the house is this Pierced Oil Warmer that is sparkly, and warm.

Of course to me, one of the easiest, most functional gifts to give is a candle. You can customize the scent, and really splurge on some quality candles that perhaps they wouldn't buy for themselves. Candles are romantic, fragrant and perfect for those nights when the lights, go down in the city...


The great thing about candles is that they come in a variety of scents and prices. Method's Frosted Fir and Toasted Hazelnut are a steal at $10 and made of soy, so they burn cleaner. My all time favorite holiday candle is the Perfect Christmas Spice candle with all of its cinnamon-y splendor. However, I picked up this Voluspa Seasons Three-Wick Tin in Winesap Apple Spice last week and it may just replace my old favorite. A combination of spice, tart and tree is a good thing - believe me! Cheap and easy are Glade's assorted variety of "boutique quality candles" as the commercial reminds me everyday. Last but not least, light Creamy Nutmeg candle together with Illume's Eggnog Latte candle and you may just skip out all together on that run to Starbucks, as these two are sure to please you just fine!

All these scents have my nose working over time and I don't really mind at all!

Cheers!

Happy Birthday Lynne!

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A very happy birthday to Lynne, celebrating up in Seattle today! Many birthday wishes and hugs! XOXO

Gift Giving #1: Be Green & Spakly

{The Barbara, Claire & Josephine}

Let’s just put it out there…giving/receiving jewelry as a present is always appreciated and in style. Giving jewelry that is Eco-Friendly and Drop Dead Gorgeous will definitely get you a ticket on Santa’s Nice List.

Enter Laura Elizabeth Jewelry. I have said it before and I will say it again...the goods are amazing and sure to leave the giftee jumping for joy. Laura jewels have been featured on Daily Candy, the TV show Bones and other publications. If you live in LA, you are a lucky one, as Laura Elizabeth Jewelry will be having a trunk show at Blonde in Santa Monica this Saturday, December 6th from 12-3 PM. The added holiday cheer...all of Laura’s jewels will be 20% off!! So come pop in, meet the stunningly gorgeous designer, sip some champagne and pick up some gifts while you are at it.

{Click to Enlarge}

Don’t you worry YBB readers not located in LA…there is a bonus for you as well! Visit Laura’s online shop and enter the code word holiday, to receive a special discount at checkout.

Cheers!

'Tis The Season

I am not sure where the time has gone, but somehow it is already December 2nd (Happy Birthday Brit) and I have 22 days to get all my Christmas shopping finished. I am not stressed (yet) and am hoping to share all sorts of fun gifts to give, wish for or buy for yourself (see below).

Now we all know that the holidays are about spending time with family and friends, and not so much about actual "gifts". However, I have always been one of those people who gets so excited to give presents (even if only to myself). That being said, I started the Holiday Season with a present to myself...these incredible Dolce Vita Snakeskin Covered Platform Pump. I just had to have them, and I figure I can get a lot of use out of them this season and the next. But this is the last present to myself until after Christmas....once those incredible after Christmas Sales hit I can't contain myself for long.

Stay tuned....

Song Of The Week: All I Want For Christmas Is You

It just wouldn't be the holidays to me if I didn't listen to this song at least 50 times! Mariah Carey's All I Want For Christmas Is You has definitely withstood the test of time and even though it is relatively a new song (1994) it has become quite a Christmas/Holiday classic. Whether it is watching that cute girl sing it in Love Actually, listening in my car or hearing it at the mall for the 10th time that day...all I want is this song!!

What are your favorite Holiday songs? What am I missing out on? Please share as I am one of those Christmas Music Freaks and want to make sure that there isn't a song I don't know. (Warning: Christmas Shoe lovers need not apply)

Happy Turkey Day!

Leave it to Martha to make turkeys look glamorous and ritzy on a table!

I am thankful for all my family, friends and you readers for making me smile everyday. Here's to many more thanks in the years to come!

Favorite Thanksgiving Episode Ever!!

My friends and I have adopted our own "Friends" Thanksgiving since relocating to California. We do it "Pot Luck Style" and end up drinking, talking and laughing a lot. We also often watch or talk about our favorite Thanksgiving Episodes of Friends. My ABSOLUTE favorite episode of Friends that also happens to be a Thanksgiving episode is "The One Where Ross Got High". I almost always cry watching it...The Trifle, Phoebe's love for Jacque Cousteau, the drugs and divorce. SOO funny!

Enjoy and Get Excited...It's almost tomorrow!!

Guilty Confession

I am so excited for season four of The Real Housewives of Orange County. I have been a follower of the show since season one and even after the other series (New York & Atlanta) this group of gals are still the best and my favorite. I cannot wait to meet the new addition Gretchen (in yellow) and see what my other favorite ridonk wives (Vicki, Lauri, Jeana, & Tamra) have been up to.

Tune in tonight to Bravo at 10 PM. I am sure you will L-O-V-E it!

Song Of The Week: The Thanksgiving Song

I can't think of a more inappropriate song to celebrate Thanksgiving but I absolutely ADORE Adam Sandler and always laugh whenever I hear this song. His random lyrics, baby voice and of course his little giggles at his own funnies - are all just too great not to listen every Thanksgiving.

So give it a chance and go ahead and listen (perhaps not at work though...), I am pretty sure that you will be 100% happy you did!

Happy Monday

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I had a wonderfully, lovely weekend in San Diego and had much to be happy for...the Cougs beat the Huskies in double overtime with a 37 foot field goal, drinks and laughs with girlfriends Saturday night and a 3-Day work week.

Here's hoping your feeling, happy, light and airy this week as well!!

Go Cougs!!

Remember that game they played once on Saved by the Bell when they had to put together the pictures to make a sentence to win the team competition...well I have one for you...it is rather easy though...

pics from here & here

This game is held tomorrow and hopefully the Cougars will be victorious!

Forever Frugal Friday

As you may have guessed, I am a very girly girl and love anything that sparkles, is pink and has bows. Well guess what...this Dolled Up Cardigan has all of the above. Cute for work, great with jeans and perfect for those upcoming holiday dinner, lunches or other outings you may have ahead of you.

Looking cute...done and done, and might I add that Blair Waldorf would definitely sport this cardigan if she shopped at Forever 21 and not Bergdorf's.

Smack it Up, Brine It, Rub it Down...Oh No...

William's Sonoma has come out with their special brine again, and this years Apple & Spices Turkey Brine is sure not to disappoint. If you want a moist, flavorful, stellar turkey, brine it...the results are fantastic!
Also on my list to try this year is the Smokehouse Turkey Rub on the outside of the birdie. A blend of "all-natural Mediterranean sea salt is slow-smoked over Pacific Northwest apple wood, then blended with imported thyme and sage. A touch of sugar gives it the perfect savory-sweet balance" sounds just dandy to me!

So whether this is your first time cooking a bird by yourself or you want to mix it up this year, I am sure either of these options is sure to bring folks coming back for seconds!

Wino Wednesday: Beer Me!!

I haven't really tried any new wines lately and instead have been sticking to my safe favorites.... so I thought I would share a fantastic seasonal beer just in time for the holidays!

Samuel Adams Winter Lager is a dark and hearty beer. I am not generally a fan of dark, amber beers at all. However, I tried this tasty treat a few years back and I always pick up at least a 6 pack every holiday season. It is dark without being heavy, but I must warn you that the alcohol content is higher on this beer then I am used to, and they will catch up to you fast.

So, mix it up and try this one out, it won't be around for long and once it's gone, you will have to wait until next year to enjoy it again!

Cheers!

Open Letter to Williams-Sonoma

Dear Williams-Sonoma,

I am quite a fan of your store. It fills me with such delight each time I step inside and sample all sorts of goodies. You have a wonderful array of tasting salts, Sprinkles cupcake mix and cocktail mixers. All in all, I always leave your store quite satisfied.

However, this past Saturday evening I was frustrated to learn that you have replaced the ever lovely Spiced Chestnut Hand Soap and Lotion with Pumpkin Spice this year. While the Pumpkin Spice is very nice, let me assure you that it is NO Spiced Chestnut my friend.


I think the Pumpkin Spice is a wonderful addition to your holiday scent selection, but would like to recommend doing as Justin Timberlake suggests and bring "Spiced Chestnut back" - yeah.

Please and Thank You.

Sincerely,
YBB

Welcome Baby Burrell!!

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Congratulations to The Burrell's and their new bouncy, baby boy!

Another Tube, Another Day....

Yep, that’s right…I still am convinced that there is the perfect mascara out there for less than $10 a tube. I recently picked up a tube of Maybelline’s Colossal Volum’ Express Mascara with Collagen. Now, it has to be said that I almost did not buy this tube due to its unfortunate combo of colors (purple + yellow = boo hiss), but fought my stereotype and took it home with me. The first two uses I was sure that I had grabbed another failure but the third time was a charm.

It glides on very nicely and provides great coverage. I like it for my everyday use mascara. For work it is fabulous. I also liked that it had an actual brush versus these crazy plastic things all over the market. This mascara is however, not so good for watching movies that make you cry. I think I laughed so hard that I cried recently, and this mascara was literally running down my face. Not so hot. Also, for going out, I would opt for another choice. I think you would need to brush on about three coats to get the desired look or what they advertise.

On a scale of 1-10 I would give this guy a 7. Don't worry...I still have three tubes to review at home...I have a bit of an addiction, yes I know....

Song Of The Week: Sex on Fire

Perhaps I have been in my own La-La land for too long because I had NO idea who the Kings of Leon were. I kept hearing their name over and over and finally about three weeks ago I finally heard "Sex on Fire" on 98.7. I liked it alright, and didn't think much of it again until last weeks episode of Gossip Girl. The song sounded even more amazing to me and I immediately purchased Only by the Night and Because of the Times.

I enjoy walking Waldo in the wee hours of the morning to this song, and then jamming out at home and in the car as well. It is sexy, and energizing.

What are your thoughts?! Love it or leave it?

Forever Frugal Friday: Office Style

It was a sunny, warm and lovely day (minus the smog) day in LA today and all I wanted to wear was a cute outfit like the ensemble above.

The Belted Ruffle Front Dress in purple is a fun addition to the beige decor that surrounds me each day, and the navy Cashmere Blend Open Cardigan allows me to pop over across the street and grab some drinks, without getting too chilly. Last but not least to add a little preppy-ness to the outfit I would sport this Grosgrain Ribbon Headband.

Cute and classy, perfect for work!

Wino Wednesday

We are long overdue for a wine pick atYBB. Valley of the Moon Chardonnay is a yummy, light and refreshing white. I know that our warm Indian Summer days and nights are numbered but this bottle is tasty. I first tried this wine at Piknic with my girlfriend Jaime, and we were complimented by the waiter at our choice (yay!). We enjoyed a Caprese Sandwich and some sweet potato fries with this glass of wine, and the meal could not have been more perfect. (Granted the sun shining down on us as we did all this was a definite bonus!)

I definitely think you should pick up a bottle and serve it chilled for your next girls night in (or prefunk!). Delish!

Song Of The Week: You Won't Find This

I will admit it, I love American Idol. I have watched every season and am pleased most with Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood. Both of these women are beautiful, strong, fun women who seem very normal and down to earth. I love all of Carrie's fun, catchy songs but am most impressed lately with You Won't Find This off her Carnival Ride album. Her voice is amazing and the lyrics are beautiful and eloquent. Enjoy :)

Forever Frugal Friday

I love me some Entourage and most of all I love me some Ari Gold. When I saw this Hug It Out Tee I just had to share it with ya'll. There is nothing better then a soft, cozy, tee that has a funny little saying on it. Whatever the occasion, do as Ari Gold would and "Hug it out bitch!"

Cheers!

VOTE!!!!

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Whatever you do...don't forget to vote today! I did this morning and feel GRRRREAT!

Also, grab your "I VOTED" sticker and head into your local Starbucks for a tall drip absolutely free, just for voting!

Cheers!

Song Of The Week: Pictures Of You

Blame it on only being 9 years old when this song came out, but recently as I drove to work I heard the song Pictures of You by The Cure and was instantly in love with the song. I have never been a huge Cure fan but I have to say that this song had me in love and it wasn't Friday (lame joke I know). This song reminds me a little of Coldplay and I wonder if they have been influenced at all by The Cure...also it has to be said that the makeup and outfits are quite awesome by 80's standards!

Happy Halloween!!!

I just couldn't resist! I personally will not be dressing up this Hallows Eve but will be enjoying the sights of others around me. Here's hoping you all have a fa-boo-lis weekend!

Forever Frugal Friday - Cozy Time!!

Coziness to me this weekend equals this Bubble Hem Slub Knit Tunic, Fab Stirrup Leggings (they stay better tucked within my boots), an Organic Cotton Racerback Tank and last but not least this Heart & Coin Necklace.

Perfection for a fall back weekend :)

Mid Week Thinking....

While cruising some blogs this AM Glassford Hill Girl had some great "Resolutions" posted that she found via News Resolution. All of the resolutions had me thinking, smiling or laughing. Worth checking out for sure. This one above spoke to me the most :)

Happy Hump Day!

Karma, Karma, Karma Dogeared Necklace

Currently on loan from one of my best friends Jaime, is this adorable Karma Gold Dipped Necklace from Dogeared. I wear it everyday and love the saying the accompanies the card...

"what goes around, comes around...wear your necklace as a reminder to keep the circle positive, peaceful and loving"

Quite a good philosophy to keep in mind on those days that being positive is just not in the cards.

Thanks Jaime!

Song Of The Week: With A Little Help From My Friends

This song couldn't be more true regarding life in general. I know that I am the luckiest gal alive and have the most incredible group of friends you have ever met. I love you all :)

Sorry for the lack of postings...it has been a crazy few weeks to say the least...but I am getting by with a little help from my friends....

Forever Frugal Friday

As fall begins to set in for everyone (including us LA peeps) it is time to start covering that skin you've been showing off all summer long this Pattern Weave Scarf is a good way to start. Light enough that you won't feel as though it is winter yet, but enough of coverage to make you feel toasty and cozy. Stylish and functional...totally marvelous!

Have a brisky (maybe even frisky?) weekend!!

The Wedding by Danielle Steel Review

I just FINALLY finished The Wedding by Danielle Steel. All I can say is that apparently she does it for everyone else (proven by her numerous books that are ranked #1 book after book and the photo above), but me. I have never had to motivate myself to read or finish a book more, than I did with The Wedding.

Unfortunately the book was just dull, dull, and dull. The main character was Allegra was fine and dandy but 517 pages of the same thing over and over was just too much for me to handle. It wasn’t trashy at all (barely any “romance” scenes), and I felt like I was reading the same adjectives paragraph after paragraph. The book read like an after school special, problem arrives, problem solved, everyone happy…minus this reader who was bored out of her mind.

The only part of the book that made me laugh (seeing as the book was written in 2001) was the description of the wedding dress...

"Allegra and her mother went shopping at Dior, and they ordered a dress that Mr.Ferre was apparently willing to have slightly readjusted to suit Allegra. It was white pique, with a white lace overlay. It was short in the front, long in the back.And he was going to add a short, high-necked, long-sleeved white lace jacket.It came with a huge white lace picture hat, and it was exactly what Allegra had in mind for her wedding. It was elegant, young and exciting!"

Quite a vision of a dress if you ask me. I have always hoped my wedding dress would have the same description as a mullet.

Now that summer is over, I can get back to reading books that are far more interesting. My summer experiment with trashy novels was a failure and I can officially say that romance novels are not for me. While I would consider reading another Jackie Collins novel, Danielle and I are sooo DONEZO.

Next book on the list…Stori Telling by Tori Spelling. CAN’T WAIT!!

Song Of The Week: Oh Sherrie

It has to be said that I love me some Steve Perry. He rocketed to fame with the band Journey and left the band to pursue a solo career. I don't think he was quite as successful on his own but he did have a great hit with Oh Sherrie. I love singing along to this in my car (usually involves me screaming at the top of my lungs - "YOU SHOULD HAVE BEEN GONE"), and just found out a fun fact that he gave his girlfriend at the time Sherrie Swafford (who also stars in the video) partial royalties for that song. So even if their love didn't last a lifetime, you can guarantee that she has a special place for Steve in her pocketbook.

Off to San Diego....

photo by Shelby Nycole

For what is sure to be an incredibly romantic, dreamy and fun wedding! Here's a sneak peek of Shelby's glorious shoes...more pics to follow! Have a dreamy weekend!

Forever Frugal Friday

Let your inner Blair Waldorf, or Serena Van Der Woodsen, or any other Gossip Girl character of your liking shine through with this Dress Vest With Embroidered Patch. Perfect with Jeans and a Deep V Tee, you will have girls all over gossiping about how good you look!

XOXO,
YBB

Happiness Is....

It has already been a heck of week at work, but I have much to be happy about in my personal life!

First off, last week I was asked by Darci at With This Ring if I was interested in being a guest blogger while she was away getting married. My answer of course was an enthusiastic "YES!!!" Darci provided me much inspiration in my wedding planning, and her creativeness never ceases to amaze me. Congrats to Darci, and thank you for allowing me to be apart of your amazing blog!!

Second off, Erin at Blue-Eyed Bride sent me a sweet email, naming me the proud new owner/winner of a Reisenthel collapsible basket and cover! I got to pick out my own design and of course couldn't decide between two, so Erin selected one for me and I will have a surprise awaiting me in the next week or so. Thank you Erin for the fun giveaway and congrats on your 200th post!

Here's hoping ya'll are having lots to be happy about this week as well!