Happy {Pack it Up} Weekend!

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so i have a wit bit of a procrastination problem when it comes to packing. 

 

yuck. 

 

and now i have two weekends to pack up the place i have lived the past 4.5 years and to be quite honest, i am dreading it. 

 

this weekend i have absolutely nothing planned (besides packing). 

 

wish me luck...

 

xoxo

The Big Move...

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we found a place!  the lease is signed!  the keys are in our hands!  the move in date is tomorrow (don't worry, i haven't packed a single box yet)! 

 

and without further ado, i'd like to introduce you to our new abode in brentwood! 

 

entry way, kitchen (new fridge being delivered thursday), living room looking out

 

i am oh so excited for the hardwood floors, exploring my new fun neighborhood, the gorgeous kitchen, new bathroom and living with b. 

 

with my excitement comes a little bit of anxiety.  i lived with a boy before, things didn't end up so well.  living with a significant other is a big step, not to be taken lightly.

 

and believe me i am not.  playing house sounds like a lot of fun, but i know that there will be difficult times as well, and that frightens me.  not enough to make me back out, but enough that i need to tell myself to calm down and remember all the reasons i am excited that we are moving in together.

 

which include:  not having to pack an overnight bag, being co-dog parents, more time together and because it is the right next step for us. 

 

so while i am sure there will be some ups and downs, i am most looking forward to the ups and for the new change. 

 

hello home sweet home!

Happy {Exploring} Weekend!

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oh hey there!  it's me - distracted debbie.

 

no really.  i'll spare you the excuses.  it's just been busy. 

 

i do have some exciting news to share though...

 

i'm moving.  in with the boyfriend.  at the end of march.  big step.  excited/nervous. 

 

this weekend i am planning to do a little packing and a little neighborhood exploring. 

 

wish me luck!

 

xoxox

Gift Guide 2012 ~ Nifty Gifty Under Fifty

 

a fifty dollar present is generally reserved for those that you care about.  you are looking to impress and the items above are all guaranteed winners!

 

donner skirt / backup battery / loafers / champagne flute / xo circle necklace

 

nest votive collection / sequin clutch / bralette / bracelet

 

happy shopping!

 

 

 

 

Gift Guide - Under $30

 

my roomie and i were just talking the other day about how hard it is to find presents under $25 for gift exchanges or coworkers. 

 

have no fear, after some searching i found all the items above for under $30!

 

cinnamon buns ornament / homegrown monogram mug / after dark holiday gift set

 

glitter iphone 4 case / metallic polka dot cosmetic pouch / mini emergency kit / bracelet

 

The Smells of Fall

 

i have fought the arrival of fall long enough!  it is now time to embrace the crisp air and warm fall scents! 

 

my mom and dad ever so kindly sent me two incredible candles from bath and body works to welcome in fall.  i lit up the sweet cinnamon pumpkin (apparently no longer available on line - check in stores) for the first time on tuesday night and my roomie came home and said it smelled like thanksgiving in our house - success! 

 

above are some of my fave fall holiday scents (don't worry, there will be a winter holiday set come december).  i also would like to mention that although a candle is the obvious and easiest way to incorporate fall smells into your life, might i also recommend trying out a soap while you are at? 

 

1 ~ voluspa three-wick tin in winesap apple spice

i first received this yummy candle from boeing at work and it makes you crave a hot apple cider (spiked for me please) and the coziest socks you find. 

 

2 ~ anti-bacterial sweet cinnamon pumpkin

i am not a big advocate of anti-bacterial soaps (i believe they weaken your immune system) but after smelling the candle i just couldn't pass on a bottle of it.  i put it in my center console of my car for post workouts, gas pumps and any other yuckies that i may come across.

 

3 ~ williams-sonoma essential oils dish soap spiced chestnut

if you have been following this blog, you may recall this is my fave scent ever.  and while i usually just savor the candle, i was introduced to the dish soap and let me just tell you, doing holiday dishes is a whole lot easier if this delightful fragrance tickles your nose.

 

4 ~ NEST candle pumpkin chai

now this one i have actually never had the pleasure of smelling, but it is high on my list to find since pumpkin and chai are two of my favorite scents.  adding them together can only mean one thing - holy goodness. 

 

5 ~ White Barn 3-Wick Candle Leaves

the second candle my mom and dad treated me to and it is another goodie (my roomie perfers this to the pumpkin scent).  i can't quite describe the scent other than it smells like walking your dog when it is chilly outside at about 5 pm.  does that make sense?

 

6 ~ ILLUME heirloom pumpkin ceramic candle

oh this candle brings sweet memories of christy and this past weekend in san francisco with carebear.  not only did illume master the scent factor but they really stepped it up a notch and provided a beautiful holder that requires no removing of stickers or hiding a label, just pretty gold and fall tones.  winner.

 

so that's it.  my fave scents for fall!  and just a tip, if you can't wait for your scents to arrive at home, your local grocer should carry the pumpkin maple scent in a variety of items for very reasonable prices.  no excuses! 

 

i would love to know your favorite fall scented home good...what's missing from my list?

Bridal Shower Basket

 

bridal showers are always such a fun festivity to attend.  they are full of happiness, laughter and love.  what more could you want?

 

they are also full of presents and if you are anything like me, i like to give a good, memorable present.  which is why i am sharing my latest go-to bridal shower prezzie. 

 

i like to go in with a girlfriend or two when giving a bridal present because it allows you way more options!  our last group gift consisted of a cute apron from anthropologie (with written expectations that she must prepare a meal for her hubby in it...naked), a his and her initial mug, some sort of cute shopping list, a fragrant kitchen appropriate candle (both of these smell incredible and are sure to tickle the hubby's senses), matching or coordinating pot holders, and a unique cookbook specific to cooking with love or just for two.

 

pick and choose from the items above based on your budget and throw them in a cute box with a darling card and you can be sure the bride (and her hubby) will be on cloud nine!



Gift Giving Guide ~ Mother's Day

mother's day is this sunday and you still have time to show that favorite mom in your life (whether it is your actual mom, your best friend, sister, aunt, whomever) how special she is to you.

below are some great gifts to share with that amazing woman in your life.

help mom step into spring with this darling bold geo dot scarf.  not only is it trendy with the polka dots, but the red/lavendar combo is sure to get her noticed!

what better way to say i think you are wonderful than to give a gift that says just that?  the philosophy "i think you are wonderful" set is just too cute and perfect for any mother in your life.

my mom adores candles and often has to put herself on "candle restriction" as she accumulates so many.  however i think she would love to add the capri blue mercury glass jar candle and/or the  glassybaby in big sky to her growing collection. 

my mom is quite the suzy homemaker and is constantly baking cupcakes for various events.  i am pretty sure any mother would love a little help in the frosting department and the williams-sonoma frosting is sure not to disappoint.  pair it with the mothers little book of home-baked treats cookbook and you are sure to be rewarded with a tasty treat!

we all know that growing older doesn't always help with one's vision.  what you can help your mom with is looking good while she helps her vision in these darling kate spade jodie readers.  available in a variety of colors, you'll be sure to find the right one for your favorite visually challenged female.

handwritten notes are a favorite from my mom, and i think just about anyone now a days loves receiving a little piece of mail addresses to them (other than a bill).  the receiver is sure to be flooded with love and affection when they open up one of these many thanks and lots of love foldover cards.

i want to thank my own mama for being such a fabulous role model and raising me with lots of love, support and smiles.  i wish i could be there this sunday to celebrate and spoil the heck out of her, but will have to wait until wednesday to give her a proper squeeze she deserves. 

gifts aside, be sure to thank a mother around you and make her feel a little extra special this week! 

xoxo

I'm Lovin' It ~ Summer Lovin'

happy may gray day!  even though the gray skies continue to rule over los angeles, my recent spray tan appointment and vacation in 15 days has me in a summer lovin' kind of mood. 

even though my vacation isn't to anywhere tropical, i am dreaming of blue skies, warm sun on my shoulders and all the fun that summer brings today. 

the items that currently haunt my summer dreams include:

jo malone vanilla & anise cologne - smells just like a root beer float.  yum!

every summer my flip flops take a beating and need to be replaced and every year i almost cave and buy those $50+ capri ones and every year i am saved by a cheaper pair.  this year gap nailed it with their leather flip flops available in a variety of colors and even come with a little extra cushion for your footsies.  awesome.

like the ray of light  kissing my shoulders, my toes will be sporting deborah lippmann's version of ray of light.  perhaps i will even listen to madonna's take on "ray of light".  that's cray, cray.

fringe benefits this summer - yes please!

in order to fully get the most benefits from my fringe, i plan to snack on these tasty little that's it. bars that give you two servings of fruit in one bar.  two fruits, one bar - much better than that other two girls one cup business (do not google it).

lastly a sweet little tumbler to enjoy a variety of light beverages from - although i am heavily leaning towards a calimocho or sangria - yum. 

what are you craving for summer?

B*Day Wishlist Part II

oh me oh my!  32 is just a few days away.  eek! 

i bring you more goodies i am lusting over from the birthday gods above...

one day, it will happen.  this alexander mcqueen skull scarf will be mine.  if i have to buy it as a present to myself, i will own it. 

i need more artwork desperately, and all we need is love, so...pretty sure all i need is this love candy metallic gold print for one of my bare walls at home.

i have a odd obsession with coffee mugs, and simply adore these heart mugs by graziela.

the eddera arrow cuff would be a perfect piece to wear every day, and since i don't currently have an everyday bracelet, this one is currently in first place to fix the void.

i am crossing my fingers that any of the items above somehow find their way into my possession...

B*Day Wishlist

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one week from tomorrow i will be turning the big 3-2! 

i still haven't quite figured out how i am already 32 (nor have i accepted saying the number outloud...i'm 32) but am planning to welcome 32 and all the goodies that come along with it. 

my mom has requested wishlists as long as i can remember, and let me just tell you how much fun i have creating them :)  i have a few items on my wishlist that i hope to unwrap next week, and i thought i would share my wishlist to all of you! 

i'm not asking for much...just some glitter and gold!

i am wishing to cheat on my paleo diet with some amazingly sinful cupcakes, cake, desert, whatever - i just want a sweet treat in my mouth (that's what she said). 

i'd also really enjoy that queen dainty cobra bracelet to find it's way onto my wrist. 

it's okay to be a pig...about saving money.  i have had my eye on this pig bank to hold all my scrilla for some time now and since it is cute enough to display, it will also be a daily reminder to fill it up!

love, love, love this gorjana love ring set.  i mean it says love on the rings.  what's not to love?

check back tomorrow for some more wishlist goodies!  8 days left...

Gift Guide #4 ~ Kate Spade for All!

I am pretty sure if I only received presents from one store this year, Kate Spade would be the place for me this year.  Every single item I am head over heels in love with!  And if you follow Kate Spade on Twitter or Instagram you would see all the fabulous happiness this company spreads to all around!

If you are still stumped on what to get that special lady or bestie in your life, look no further than below!

all wrapped up cards/live colorfully borough coasters/bellevax fingerless gloves/cascade bib necklace

putting on the ritz earrings/this is the year bracelet/cheers necklace/pavé surround large stud earrings

sparkle summit brynn/charm shoe/sparkler gia/gold playing cards (* pretty please santa)

Any of the goods above is sure to make your loved one overjoyed!

Summer Essentials Series ~ No Day But Today

Today I am excited to bring your Courtney from No Day But Today's summer essentials.  Courtney is a fellow Coug who is the mother of the darling and photogenic as all get out Charlotte (pics above).  Courtney is just about the nicest gal around, whose smile is contagious and just brings the best out in everyone.  Her blog is full of amazing photos of Char that she takes herself and also little beauties you might let pass you by sometimes.  A treat for anyone who visits!

*What one item can you not be without this summer?*

Versa Spa

Combine our Northwest "summer" with my white skin, along with my desire to keep my skin healthy...and a tanned body is pretty much out of the question. Enter: Versa Spa. I first learned of it through Miss Lisa Spry who swore it was the only spray tan to go with. No Mystic Tanning for her, and it always looked so even and great after she'd do it, that I quickly became a fan. Even though I am not quite the expert at getting the zero streaks like Spry and Michelle, for the most part it always comes out looking good. Plus, there is almost always some sort of Groupon or Living Social deal to use...or you can just barter with them (again, I don't have quite as good of skills as the Ultimate Sales Lady Spry, but I try)

*What are you craving for summer 2011?*

Besides the actual sun (I think I wrote this same thing last year?! Do I need to move?!), I'm craving projects.

I'd like do redo our picture wall to look something like this, a bit more structured but still eclectic.

And maybe enlarge a few from Charlotte's 1 year picture session like this

And I really want to make this.  Being present is something I'm always working on and I would love this constant little reminder that this moment will pass...both the good ones and the bad ones.

*What is your essential summer song for 2011? *

While this isn't really a quintessential summer song...and I have no idea actually if it's old or new (I actually am not even sure where I first heard it?), I've been loving Little & Ashley's "Stole My Heart".  It's my dance-around-the-living-room-with-my-girl song of choice these days!

Thanks Courtney for sharing your summer faves!  I am loving this song from Little & Ashley - so sweet and fun!  And your projects look like a lot of work with a lot of reward!  Love that do it yourself, "this too shall pass" sign.  I am ALWAYS telling myself to live in the present.  It really is a great motto to life.  If you haven't already, be sure to head over to No Day But Today right away!

Pssst...we're halfway there!!

I'm Loving' It

The new Starbucks "Very Berry Hibiscus" Refresher is muy bueno!  I was very hesitant to try this coffee drink that tastes nothing like coffee, but let me just tell you it is so delish.  A grande drink only has 70 calories and it contains freeze-dried berries as well.  Once I finish my beverages, I fill my cup of with water and enjoy my "spa" water at my desk.  If you are lucky enough to have them sampling it at your local Sbux, make sure you give it a try. 

Also loving the Hunger Games Triology.  I am on the final book of the series and trying to find any excuse to read it.   

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This bright, cheery and a little bit nautical look from Atlantic-Pacific.  I mean let's be honest, all of her outfits are lust-worthy but this one just screams glamorous fun in the sun.

Even though I am perfectly content and still loving my Yellow KitchenAid Mixer, I fell in love at first sight with this KitchenAid Artisan Susan G. Komen Stand Mixer in Raspberry Ice.  Not only would it be a brilliantly bold addition to any kitchen, but with the purchase of this mixer you are also contributing to the Susan G. Komen Cook for the Cure®’s efforts to cure breast cancer. 

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This ring and grey nail polish combo.  Whenever I see this photo I instantly want to run to the nearest beauty supply and pick up a bottle of grey polish (preferably chinchilly).  Grey, yellow, turquoise and a little bit of gold...possibly new bedroom color scheme? 

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Visits from friends and babies that include dinners at garlic ball heaven C&O Trattoria in Venice. 

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Holding sweet little buddy Raleigh while soaking up rays, sipping some wine at Sip in Malibu and reminiscing with friends.  This past weekend Coffey and Cabe flew down from Seattle so that many of us could meet little Raleigh as well as the handsome Easton.  It was a weekend of making the best of roadblocks and rules and fully of laughter and smiles.  So much fun!

I'm Lovin' It

I opened the cupboard in our kitchen at work and noticed this AWESOME mug staring back at me and I just smiled so big.  I have been trying to figure out who the owner is so I can give them a big hug.  It has had all of us gals giggling this week, and for that I love it. 

Have Mercy!

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I would do just about anything to call this my bathroom.  The pop of yellow, the bright white and light = right up my alley.

My iPad will be taking its first flight on a plane this Sunday and I am thinking I really wish I owned this Vivienne Westwood Derby tartan leather iPad case.  Love that it's pink and leather. 

I have been house sitting for my boss this past week at his gorgeous house on a walk street in Venice and have been loving the evening walks with B down the boardwalk to enjoy a beer at the Venice Ale House and the Waterfront Cafe all while enjoying the sunset.

My thoughtful and sweet coworker left me these lovely and fragrant roses on my desk Tuesday morning with a note that read, "Congrats on your promotion! Very well deserved".  Instantly brightened my mood.

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  I purchased  My Private Jet back in the end of February and just got around to painting them this past Sunday and loved the results!  It lasted almost without a chip for 4 days and really sparkled in the sunshine.

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This picture is really accurate of how it turns out and shines.  The color will soon be added to my must always have a bottle of collection.

And now I need your help, should I repaint my nails My Private Jet for San Francisco or go bright and bolder for my weekend?  I am on the fence - any polish color that I should absolutely pick for the trip?

Flashing Brights

According to the calendar, spring sprung on Sunday...

According to my window, spring has yet to arrive in L.A.

The wind, rain and grey, leaves me craving anything and everything bright and sunny!

(click picture to enlarge)

1st Row: Scarf, Candle, Shimmer Tee, Pack Away Bag

2nd Row: Dress, Clutch, Books, Pumps

3rd Row: Bowls, Wedges, Sweater, Trench Motorcycle Jacket

4th Row: Undies, Lip Gloss, Thongs , Nail Polish

Has spring sprung at your location yet?  What do you have your eye one this spring?

Drug Store Beauty Booty

I realized it has been quite some time since I shared my latest beauty finds, and today's post is dedicated specifically to items you can get at your local drugstore for cheap!

So a few months back I ran out of face wash and really needed to wash my face.  So I used a squirt of my Dial Antibacterial Liquid Hand Soap, Gold Value - 11.25 Oz instead.  Took my makeup off great and left my skin clean and clear.  My laziness ensued and I ended up making this stuff my go to face wash for everyday.  And wouldn't you just know that I started getting loads of compliments about how great my skin looked.  This bottle costs less than $3 and is the best wash I have ever used. 

When I ran out of my hand soap/face wash I purchased the generic version of Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash - 9.1 oz. and I have to say that I cannot wait to buy another bottle of the dial because it works so much better!  Give it a shot, if you hate it or aren't pleased you can use it as it is marketed, for your hands!

I have always loved L'Oreal's Voluminous Mascara and was pumped when I saw the commercial for L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara - Blackest Black.  The brush isn't my favorite but two coats of this mascara and your eyelashes are looking TDF.  Long, lush and full - exactly what I want from a mascara.  And for under $8!!

I also recently ran out of eye cream and needed to keep my under eyes moisturized, so I pulled out my trusty tube of Vaseline Petroleum Jelly Jar - 3.75 Oz and rubbed it under my eyes.  A makeup artist once told me that all those eye creams don't really work and the most important thing to keep your eyes looking bright and young was to keep them highly moisturized.  Enter Vaseline.  For under $5 I use this moisturizer under my eyes, lips, and nose. 

I originally purchased my AQUAPHOR HEALING OINTMENT SKIN CARE 1.75 OZ TUBE for my tattoo to stay moisturized but quickly learned that this stuff works anywhere and does a great job.  Now I use it on my elbows that are cracked, my lips that are chapped and my knuckles that are so dry from the cold, blistering weather we have been experiencing in Cali lately (I may be exaggerating a little bit). 

But honestly, this stuff rocks and lasts forever!  It is also wonderful since it is unscented and has no tint, you can help keep your significant others pout kissable and soft for underneath the mistletoe!

Those are my latest cheap beauty finds that can do no wrong in my eyes!  Pick up one, two or all four.  I think it will be the best $20 you have spent in a long time!