Cozy Chic

On a dreary day, there's nothing I love more than an oversized sweater.  Combined with a stretchy skirt and rugged combat boots, I'm ready for any puddle that comes my way.

All That Glitters

Lately, I'm a sucker for pink and gold.  I never grow tired of a sparkly accessory, and these items make up my latest wish list.

     1.)  Juicy Couture Sequin Stripe Daydreamer Bag, $209.99

     2.)  Michael Kors Rose Gold Chronograph Watch, $250.00

     3.)  Return to Tiffany Rose Gold Heart Tag, $1,375.00

     4.)  Tarina Tarantino Sparklicity Gold Shimmer Dust, $39.00

     5.)  Missoni Sequined Silk Mini-skirt, $459.00

     6.)  Marc Jacobs Rose Gold Classic Aviator Sunglasses, $290.00

     7.)  Sephora by OPI Only Gold For Me Top Coat, $9.00

     8.)  Christian Louboutin Lady Peep Sling, $895.00

Flashback: Napa Valley

Last July, I took a California road-trip with my husband and a couple of our friends. Starting in Napa Valley, we made a pit-stop in San Francisco before traveling down the Pacific Coast Highway to Los Angeles, Malibu, and San Diego. Since I have family in San Diego, I've visited Southern Cali several times, but until this trip, I'd never seen farther North than L.A. Napa Valley was my favorite leg of the trip. I loved the city's relaxed charm. Riding a tandem bicycle on well-beaten roadways, time seemed to move slower there.  Someday, I'd love to return for a full week of wine tasting and relaxation.

The Giant S'mores-Maker

Recently, my husband and I purchased our first home. Technically, the property was "move-in ready," but we made several alterations to personalize the space.  In our great room, the oversized fireplace is a focal point.  With original handiwork, circa 1980, the flagstone facade and wood-paneled walls felt a little lodgey for our taste.  To modernize, we ripped down the wood panels, slapped on a fresh coat of paint, stained the beams a deep espresso, ripped up the laminate, and mudded the fireplace, replacing the flagstone with copper-toned tiles.  We were able to accomplish a lot of the work ourselves, but for everything tile-related, by brother-in-law was a godsend.  Our new fireplace is a satisfying juxtaposition of modern and contemporary decor.

St. Augustine

At least once a year, I plan a day-trip to St. Augustine, FL- the nation's oldest city.  One of the few places where old-world charm is valued more than modernization, cobblestone walkways, crumbling buildings, and horse & carriage rides characterize the city.  A mere two-hours from home, St. Augustine holds a sentimental value to me that simply can't be trumped.  There's nothing I enjoy more than admiring the Spanish Architecture, watching dolphins frolic in Matanzas Bay, and devouring an ice cream cone from Kilwan's.  St. Augustine is my favorite place in the world.  At least, it's my favorite place so far. :)

Obsessions

The vibrant-colors and childish lure of an oversized lollipop.

Grapefruit- I like mine broiled with a drizzle of honey.

My favorite coffee mug. "Caution: Hot.  And literate."

The darling bird-topper at a friend's (larsipan.tumblr.com) wedding.

An oceanside sunset, sailboat included.

The Pupsicles

For me and my husband, Nanook (a two-year-old English Cream Golden Retriever) and Nahla (a one-year-old Goldendoodle) are like children.  Known collectively as Nooka-Nawa, their personalities reach opposite ends of the spectrum.  Nooka, the boy, is gentle and lazy.  Nahla, the girl, is mischievous and spunky.  Together, they provide endless hours of entertainment.

{A happy Nooka driving home from the park.}

{As a pup, Nooka bore a slight resemblance to Falkor from The Neverending Story.}

{A full-grown Nooka, lazily rolling on the green.}

{Nahla showed spunk from an early age.  I feared I'd accidentally purchased a Gremlin.}

{Car rides are Nahla's favorite.}

{While Nooka lazily rolls on the green, Nahla never tires of a high-speed chase.}