{CHECK OUT} Green & Stylish

I was asked to make a guest blog at Green & Stylish this week! Which was super exciting because not only do I adore being stylish - but even more so - I adore being considered "green".

My weekend actually started today (Thursday), so I decided to post a {GUIDE TO A ECO-FRIENDLY WEEKEND} at Green & Stylish. I've chosen an assortment of weekend staples, like: bikinis, ice cream, alcohols - that are all organic and tres chic!

{OBSESSION} Pyramid Stud Details

Last month I took a quiz in some magazine (I do happen to know which it was, but for the love of my reputation of reading "only the best" publications - I'm not actually going to say what I was actually reading) and was informed that my style is: boho. I am not. And, it is sooo not. I'd say I'm more Global Chic or Rockstar on the Road, but not Bohemian.

In celebration of a magazine NOT KNOWING what type of person I am based on a few answers I have organized my anti-boho obsession of pyramid stud details. I'm totally in love with those sandals! I could totally rock those with a jean skirt on the weekend.

What's your style? If you could just make-up a name to fit your style, what would you call it?

{VACATION} But ... I'm Back!!

Hi there! I have been totally off the radar the past week due to a long-awaited vacation/husband's business trip/mini 2.5 year anniversary celebration in Chicago. I completely planned on blogging while gone, but I lost my blackberry in the airport surgery (still not sure what exactly happened), and somehow 7 days slipped by without posting a single comment about Design Star or Rachel Zoe. But - I'm back!

I'll resume my fabulous ramblings tomorrow morning! Hope you had a GREAT weekend!

{INSPIRATION} Golden Hollywood Glam | Jeremiah Goodman

I'm so falling in love with the 1940's watercolor rooms of Jeremiah Goodman. He painted the parlors and boudoirs of some of the most golden goddesses (and gods) of the silver scene, including the ever-svelte Greta Garbo.

It is silly to want to decorate a room based on a dream-like, watercolor rendering of Old Hollywood?

These are just a few of my favorites. But, there are plenty to chose from with a simple Google search.

{COCKTAILS} Low Calorie Cocktail Recipes

Throughout college I drank Sugar-Free Red Bull & vodka - it has become my signature cocktail over time - in fact, at my wedding we served Sugar-Free Red Bull & raspberry vodka at our cocktail hour. Most of our guests had never had a high-caffeine, energy drink before our wedding. So, needless to say, EVERYONE danced all night long!

[LEFT: nestparty's Dancefloor Confession: sugar free red bull & raspberry vodka, with lime - Est. 74 calories - nutritional source: calorieking.com]

Yesterday, I was reading this week's issue of US Magazine and came across a few recipes for LOW CALORIE COCKTAILS that I was just dying to share. Just a few of my favorites include Tory Burch's Tory-Tiki-Tini and Fergie's Bikini-e-tini. As soon as my finger is out of this ridiculously unflattering splint I'm totally hitting up my neighborhood bar for my beloved bartender to whip up Reese Witherspoon's Blackberry Chill. Bottoms up!

{OBSESSION} Tori Spelling Goes Green

Two nights ago ... I BROKE my index finger on my right hand. Yep, after 26 years, I finally accomplished what most 7 years old boys have been doing since the Earth started turning: breaking bones. I was merely playing fetch with a neighborhood dog when he decided why chew on a rawhide bone when he could chew on something a little more flavorful - my finger.

At first I screamed, "Ugh ... I'm a journalist ... this is the worst possible thing that could happen to me! I'll never type again!" But, strangely, as I sat in the emergency room I started to see a light at the end of the tunnel. The ER's waiting room television was tuned to Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood. I had never actually watched the show (our cable provider doesn't subscribe to Oxygen) and now I was sitting there with my hazel-green retinas glued to the television. Sooo ... since I've been stuck at home the past couple of days I've downloaded ALL the past episodes of Home Sweet Hollywood.

The show is surprisingly entertaining, especially, when you're on the lookout for all of Tori's emerald green wardrobe selections. Kelly green is by far my favorite color, and I've never really thought of it as a color that would look especially stunning on a platinum blond girl (Tori Spelling and myself, of course) since it's such a saturated jewel tone. Here's just a FEW of Tori's recent (this season of Home Sweet Hollywood's) going green moments.

{TEMPTATION} Jackie Kennedy's Birthday

I spent a good majority of my grade school years listening to fairytale-like stories about the former First Lady, Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy, from various elder family members. The beyond fabulous stories of a Presidential family immersed in the public eye and troubled times, yet revered as the fabled Camelot, had me completely transfixed. How could one person be so strong in the face of adversity and effortlessly classic in style ALL the time?

Well, well, well ... If Jackie were alive today, she would be 80 years old. So, in honor of her birthday (because who doesn't like a celebration) I've gathered together a few nods to her iconic style.





Sunglasses: Tiffany & Co. Voile Round, $380



Earrings: Emerald & Diamond (simulated) - qvc, $60




Berry Brooch: Jackie reproduction "duel berry pin" - qvc, $59

{OBSESSION} Cameo Appearance

My husband was so tres sweet when he surprised me with a truly modern - and rather unexpected - gift 2 days ago. Apparently, he got this absolutely charming cameo ring from Zales. He was forced to be at the mall for 2 hours waiting for his iPhone to be "restored" at the Apple Store, thereby allowing him to have amble time to by his wife a new right-hand ring.

Ring: Oval Carved Turquoise and Charcoal Grey Quartz Cameo Ring in 14K Gold - $149, Zales







Alas, this has led to my latest {OBSESSION} the cameo. I found that it's super easy to work into modern fashion, not to mention it's almost Parisian when it's ivory and onyx. I'm in love... it's so very Royal Family, don't you think?
































[credits on page]

{HOW TO} JETSET WITH SUMMER STYLE

I'm dying to be one of those super organized people you see at airports that breezes through security - first class lane only, of course - that always seems to be "going somewhere exotic rather than Oklahoma".

Now that is a direct quote from my mother while she and I boarded a plane last month to visit my birth state... yep, you guessed it, Oklahoma. ::sigh:: Good times!

These are my above-all, must-haves-to-keep-me-sane at the airport and on-the-plane luxuries. They are all things I actually OWN and not what I should own, so I can attest to the wonders of each item and how it assists me in maintaining my zen-like state of mind even while flying.

In a couple of weeks I'll be jetting off to Chicago and then to Madison, Wisconsin and no doubt these items will save me life once again! Enjoy a peak into my luggage...


























Laptop: Dell notebook, $499 - it's so small, it slips in and out of my purse in a flash for security
iPod: Pink iPod Nano, $149 - I download spa worthy music and zone out
Dress: American Eagle, $39- super comfy, yet easily dressed up
Pocket Watch Necklace: Tempus Fugit, $65 -you can never be to the terminal too early to ask for an upgrade to first class
LUXE Maps: Luxe Travel Guides, $9 each - chic travel guides
Scarf/Blanket: Love Notes, $88 - can be used as scarf in terminal and blanket while on plane
Watch: Michael Kors, $195 - see "pocket watch necklace" -
Stamps: King & Queen of Hearts, $8 per book - to send postcards to all those that you'd love to make "pea green with envy"
Giraffe Journal: Papercup Design, $16 - to keep a travel log of events, places and people
High-tech Water Bottle: Hydra Coach, $28 - hydration is key to keeping sanity while traveling
Lip Shine: Philosophy, $8 -pure heaven for the lips
YSL Postcard Clutch: Yves Saint Laurent, $599 - it's a postcard from YSL - hello, fabulous!
Luggage: Steamline, The Editor Series, $125 - $450 - It's so vintage in style, but totally modern in function and design

{TRES SHABBY FINDS} Lazy Summer Days

Yesterday I spent hours, upon hours, hunting through the area's best fleamarkets and antique stores. After a long day, and a full bottle of anti-bacterial cleanser, I realized that I had made so fairly decent choices that somehow reflect my desire to spend a majority of my time at the beach.

















I scored these vintage water skies for only $133 at a local antique store that was closing (victim of our economy, maybe). I just adore the color and the logo of the company on the ends of each ski. I have them resting close to the front door, as if I just got back from doing a ski-on-water show at Cypress Gardens, circa 1945. So very Ester Williams!













I love collecting vintage books with bizarre titles, such as: And One Was Beautiful, and, Love in a Snowstorm. But, my newest vintage book is Her Only Sin for a mere $2. I adore really graphic covers, so I designed this mini-shelves (similar to a life-size Scrabble tray that holds the 7 tiles) so the books could rest against the walls being displayed as artwork. The shelved are just $9 wooden baseboards turned sideways and screwed into 3 studs in the walls. I just can't wait for a rainy day to read Her Only Sin ... I'm just dying to know what her freakin' "sin" is and why!



















When I saw this wood-craft toucan, for only $22, I literally squealed with delight. My brother-in-law owns a toucan and a blue hyacinth macaw (let the record show, I do not condone adoption of wild animals) and I've always adored the tropical nature that these fine creatures bring to mind. Now, I live in a beachside community with very fair colored homes... our home needs COLOR! So, I immediatly brought this big guy home and put him on a permenant birch on the second floor veranda. It's been out there 2 days now and... no crazy comments, like, "what the heck is that thing?" WHEW! ;)

{LUX LIFESTYLE} Janet Hill Studio

While secretly passing time at work, I found myself falling in love with the artwork of Janet Hill Studios, thanks to the très stylish Carlee, Deliciously Organized. It's so lovely that it makes me want to rename my cat something beyond romantically practical , like, Italics or Hemingway.

It's the literary experience that I long to have on a daily basis while living my life as a journalist.


























All artwork - Janet Hill Studio | etsy shop

{LUX LIFESTYLE} Maya Bikini

I can't tell you how many Victoria Secret bikini orders I've made. Nor can I tell you how many bikinis - for that matter - that I actually own. But, what I can say is my feelings now for all those bikinis I have previously adored are pale and shallow due to my recent new found love for Maya bikinis (signature cut).

The signature cut is this super flattering, lettuce-edge bikini that floats over your body. It's made out of the super-duper fabric that is like second skin next to your body. Yum! And, did I mention FLATTERING?

Now, I'm not gonna lie... this is going to be an investment into your future lookin-hot-on-the-beach budget. But, it's nothing a few more hours at work can't handle!

Maya "Signature Cut" Bikini - $180, Maya Swimwear

{DESTINATION} Brimfield Antique Show

Undoubtedly, the largest outdoor antique show is taking place this week in Brimfield, MA... and I'm missing it. The Brimfield Antique Show takes place a few times a year and draws more than 6,000 dealers and 130,000 visitors. A good majority of my shabby chic style and furniture came from the show over the 4 years that I was away at college in Connecticut. According to the weather channel it's going to be a beautiful weekend in New England!

Oh, if only I could be there!

[photo credit: Kim Naumann - Curiouser & Curiouser Designs]

{SEDATION} Beach, Flip Flops & Evian

I just got back from a work trip, and don't let anybody fool you ... traveling is traveling, period. Whether it's for work or pleasure the airports are exhausting by the end of the day. I love traveling, but I love being home even more.

As for me, I've totally managed to waste the day since arriving back at home (hope my editor doesn't entirely agree).

Don't you just LOVE those days where you either, a.) accomplish everything, or b.) nothing?

I found that they are totally different sensations - one is victory, the other is more like mild meditation. Regardless, today I'm enjoying a long day laying out at the beach, my $3.50 Old Navy flip flops and a huge bottle of Evian.

{OBSESSION} Laura & John | Vegas Wedding

My very, very good friends Laura & John are tying the knot in wild and wonderful Las Vegas' Wynn hotel. {GASP!} It's heavenly. If you've never been - GO. If you've been before - I'll race you there!

Now, they didn't want your typical Vegas wedding. Not sure why... I secretly adore weddings at the Chapel O' Love. However, they were looking for something with a little more whimsy than wild, a little less Viva Las Vegas and more Alice in Wonderland. It didn't take long to find inspiration. From the moment you walk through the lobby doors {SIGH} you are greeted by unbelievable parasol chandeliers in all shapes, sizes and hues at Parasol Up | Parasol Down in the Wynn Hotel.

Needless, to say... inspiration was found in these delicate, ladylike, turn-of-the-last-century portable shade-makers. It's breezy, wistful and, above all (literally), romantic. Did I mention I'm totally MOH (Matron of Honor)?






























[photo credits can be found on page]

{DESTINATION} Serenity Spa at BayPoint

As you might have already gathered, I'm a journalist for a major publication that pays for me to do unbelievable research on all things decadent. I'm the magazine's go-to-gal for galas, weddings, restaurants and, spas. Blah, blah, blah... on to what really matters... the spa!

I luckily have the opportunity to fly on over to Panama City Beach and do a little "research" at Serenity Spa at BayPoint Marriott. It's a resort right on the Emerald Coast, so I'll also be getting myself a little tan while I'm there for 24 hours. I'm excited just to lay around reading Mary Kay Andrew's, The Fixer Upper, in the relaxation room (pictured) after time spent in the steam room.

I'll be getting the detox wrap and pedicure. I'm a detox wrap connoisseur! I'm excited to see how this one fairs. I usually lose about an inch (in only water weight, of course), but that really makes a difference when laying poolside!

{INSPIRATION} I Married Adventure

In a matter of speaking, marriage is an adventure. It's an adventure into the unknown. An outside view of your past, present and, more importantly, your future. Best of all, it's a tell-tale of the level of maturity we all secretly hope we are able to live up to throughout the many trials and tribulations of life.

I married my bestfriend. Luckily, he shares my love of traveling. And, while we haven't been to Iceland (Stacy & Steve) or had to share a charter tour with Norwegian whalers to Antarctica (Jack & June), we do get our fair share of adventure. We've been swimming with sharks in Hawaii. Toured ghost towns of the old west in Nevada. Mined for diamonds in Arkansas. And, have been part of an ol' fashion clam back in Maine.

Did I mention swimming with the sharks in Hawaii? Yea, we love adventure! =)

















Photograph - Maracaymedan, Flickr
Paris Street Map Scarf - $69, Map Scarfs
Antique Binoculars -$25, Micheal's Collectibles
Book: I Married Adventure - my private collection
Western Union Telegram (graphics) - my private collection
Giraffe Print Bag - $69.95, Z Gallerie
Gem Paperweights -$16.95, Z Gallerie
Never Lost, Compass Necklace - $23, Made by Moe
Vintage Train Ad - $8, Red Rooster Antiques
Leather Suitcases -$89, uxolo
Serenbe, Georgia Photograph - Jessica Ellis
Coach "kiki" Purse - $569, Coach
Replica of Saber Tooth Tiger Skull - $59.95, Z Gallerie

{TEMPTATION} 1800's Georgia Peach

It's Monday morning, and while thinking about the tragic economy, the best way to distract myself is with expensive homemade goods from Etsy.com - obviously! I'm really adoring this 19th century, I-live-on-a-plantation kind of feel of these fabulous finds. It just makes me want to buy a petticoat and rename my cat, Mint Julep!
Boudoir Chair - $800, Reclaim the Throne
Sunset Sail Print- $17, DreamON
Silk Blouse - $325, Claire la Faye

{OBSESSION} Holly Golightly | Breakfast at Tiffany's

Amazingly, for a character that actually owns very few material possessions, there is an endless supply of decor, fashion and lifestyle ideas throughout the entire classic film Breakfast at Tiffany's. I'm sure - in the somewhat near future - I will post a "Holly Golightly apartment style II" just brimming with more sensational ideas inspired by the girl who honestly has everything she needs and nothing she doesn't.

My 4.5 years spent at Yale University are punctuated by sleepless nights studying, partying NYC-style and by Miss Golightly's beyond fabulous fashion, quotes and insatiable desire to be loved.

{INSPIRATION} Modern Day Cinderella

I've got to admit - I am forever in love with the romantic tale of The Glass Slipper - better known as, "Cinderella" for a good majority of my life. I mean, seriously, who doesn't want a convenient seamstress (i.e. fairy godmother) to whip up a fantastic gown just in time to make you the envy of everyone and capture the heart of Prince Charming? Alas, I've grown up to adore the story for it's true meaning: stay calm and carry on. Recently, say the past 26 years or so, I've become obsessed with recreating a realistic version of Cinderella's life within my own. Think... tiaras, pumpkins and clocks. Enjoy!




















Tiara - antique tiara - my private collection
Clock Faces - lost reference/please contact with info
Pumpkins - Martha Stewart
Glass Slipper Cake - cake created for my birthday by Annette's Cakes
Mice Brooches - Vermont Jewelry
Key Necklace - Tiffany & Co.
Castle - Chateau Elan in Georgia
Book/Rings - Vintage book in my private collection, my Tiffany & Co. engagement and wedding band
Kiss at Midnight - The Fire illustration for Fetes Galantes by Georges Barbier

{INSPIRATION} All Signs Point to ... AWESOME

I love how over time by reading someone's personal blog you can piece together what it must be like to actually know that specific person. You come to realize that blogger adores state fairs, costume balls and energy drinks, but dislikes pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey and the word, "mule". However, as for me and my blog, we will tell you what we love - and it's just about anything that has words or phrases typed, letterpressed, stenciled or painted onto an just about anything. I've basically been into retro neon signs since junior high. Though before 2001 I had never been to Las Vegas or New York. But, I had vacationed in Pensacola Beach with my family. There awaiting each beach seeking tourist is a vintage neon sign acting as gatekeeper the the world's whitest beach. I am going to claim that as the beginning of my latest obsession in our nest!




















Wedding Chapel Painting - J. Sandquist
Love/Hate L.A. - Buckingham Studios L.A.
Stargazing Invitation/Gatsby theme - The Aviary
Pensacola Beach Sign - Pensacola Beach, Florida
Glass Pool Inn - J. Sandquist
Roses & Rue Book - Livingston & Porter
Kissing Booth letterpress print -Roll and Tumble Press
Niagara Falls Postcard - BROOKLYNrehab
Truth Print - Lake Illustration
Crest O' The Wave - Disney World's Resort Boardwalk Hotel

{INSPIRATION} Suddenly Seaside

[WARNING: READER MY BECOME SEA-GREEN WITH ENVY AFTER READING POST] I live on the beach. There, I've said it! Whew - the truth really does set you free! And while some might suggest that beach dwellers (myself included) naturally would get tired of living in paradise, I'm here to set the record straight. My husband and I adore this lifestyle... day in, day out.

Alas, with any relationship it's important to keep it fresh and exciting, which is why I feel that "suddenly seaside" is the best way to describe my current daily inspiration for my life. I've included a romantic beachside motel (we're talkin' 1950's romantic motor inn), sexy jewelry inspired by the ocean and even some delicious sweet treats that are bound to entice even the healthiest of readers.
















Seaside Bakery Sign - allposters.com
Coral print in turquoise room - unknown (contact if known)
Vintage 50's Luggage Rack - Old Crow Farm
Salt Water Taffy - Sea Shore Taffy
Rustic Ocean Floor Art - The Bee's Knees Designs
Anchor Necklace - Vintage Musings
Vintage 50's Miami Beach Brochure - Modmarge Fine Finds
His & Her's hand towels - Jolly Time One

{INSPIRATION} Neptune's Nursery

Brace yourself for this shocking {inspiration} post: I'm decorating my kitten's nursery. Naturally, my kitten doesn't have a room entirely to himself. I'm actually talking about the 5x5 walk-in crawlspace under the staircase that is home to Neptune's litter box, food and soon to be his "nursery". It's a bit silly - but, it does need to be done - and anything worth doing is worth doing well enough to make friend jealous, right? ;) Not to mention, I'm seriously thinking about babies around the clock now days. Since the timing isn't right yet (and I stress yet) this is the next best thing!
















Paua Painting - My Private Collection
Blue Chandelier - unknown (contact if known)
Capiz Bowls - Target
Neptune's Lamp - unknown (contact if known)
Cat Nip Toys (fish) - Anastasia 91
Topography of Ocean Floor - Crafterall
Rug - Angela Adams
Underwater Reef - Neptune Memorial Reef - Miami, Florida
"N" is for Neptune - Morning Star Designs