ToastnCandy

I Have No Idea Why...

2011-10-06T19:12:00.000-07:00

But this song often gets stuck in my head. J'adore Vanessa.

Mosquito by Vanessa Paradis

Missoni

2011-09-13T20:34:00.001-07:00

When I logged on to Target.com earlier today to find the server down, I immediately had to go to Target to see what all the Missoni fuss was about. I naively thought I could pick up some towels and possibly some clothes for Lady Baby. When I got to Target, this is what I found...

Nothing! EVERYTHING had been cleared out. Shelves were bare. No Missoni for me.

But then I ran into a friend near the checkout who had just come from a different location and she was bragging about her haul. I followed her to her car to find this...

She had bought it all! Luggage, stationery, laptop case, rubber boots, plates, clothes... Seriously. She had it all. And best of all, she had scored a tiny Missoni dress for my Lady Baby. Thank you Carrie!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

People Reading Books

2011-09-08T14:59:00.000-07:00

My dear friend @tweetsweet just started this amazing blog, People Reading Books in Pubic Places. I love it. It's deliciously voyeuristic and sucks me in imagining what the person is like who is reading the book and I giggle thinking about my friend taking these stealth photos. I don't have much time for reading books right now (although I'm finding I really like to do so on my iPad when I can steal a spare moment) so this allows me to archive all the books that I want to get to. I have a few on the go that I need to finish already!

The Help by Kathryn Stockett (started long before all the movie hype)

An Inconvenient Wife by Megan Chance (for my bookclub, but I didn't finish it before the meeting)

Orange is the New Black by Piper Kerman (my next bookclub selection)

What are you reading?

Robots are Awesome

2011-08-29T14:41:00.000-07:00

I just came across this adorable print on my friend's blog and I must have it for little H & H's room. It makes me happy.

Robots in love by thebigharumph

Hello Universe

2011-08-09T13:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I came across (and bought) these lovely fall boots from House of Harlow on Gilt.

Today, I came across this vintage Hudson car for sale on my morning walk.

The Universe is telling me it likes my baby names.

Oh J.Crew...

2011-07-26T12:52:00.001-07:00

I love J. Crew. I do. I love the quirky ways the outfits are styled and the fresh take on classic pieces. I often want to purchase an entire look from head to toe including shoes and accessories from the catalog but I've never done it. Maybe I should start. Here's what I'm loving in the latest catalog...

Dream Open Cardigan

Clipper Cardigan in Cream

Pia Calf Hair Pumps

Marlow Hobo

The Booker Boot

The Hacking Jacket

The Matinee Trench

Fall Is In the Air

2011-07-13T15:53:00.000-07:00

I know it's only mid-July but the past few days have definitely had a hint of fall in the air. I was walking back from the grocery store last night and couldn't help daydreaming about sipping mulled wine and eating pumpkin scones. Of course, with Fall comes fashion. The September issues will be hitting in a few weeks and I'm getting a head start on what I'd like to update my wardrobe with and get ready for the chilly days ahead. This gorgeous bag has definitely made my list.

CHELSEA FLAGSHIP EMBOSSED PYTHON DOWEL FLAP by Coach

Eggie Goodness

2011-07-06T20:56:00.000-07:00

With the little ones at home, I have very little time these days and eating a balanced meal is not the easiest thing to achieve. Luckily, I came across these yummy breakfast egg muffins on Pinterest a few weeks ago and I stole a few minutes this week to whip them together. It was super easy and healthy as well. The perfect meal to take when you're on the go.

Scallions & Zucchini from the Farmer's Market, sauteed.

Separate the egg yolks from the whites (this was the trickiest part)

Stir in the feta with all the ingredients

15 minutes and you have the perfect breakfast treat!

Heart Art

2011-06-30T11:02:00.000-07:00

How amazing is this beautiful piece made of paper hearts? I might have to order it and tuck it away for Valentine's Day. Pulling this out after months of hiding in my closet will be better than finding a $20 bill in my coat pocket.

Little Vintage Hearts found on Etsy via Emily Henderson

Mommy Daze

2011-06-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

Much has changed since my last post. I gave birth at only 29.5 weeks to twins on April 1st. Now that was an April Fools Day to remember! After a terrible scare and 77 days in the NICU, our little ones are finally home. We're simply over the moon with joy and feel like the luckiest people in the world to get to spend our days with these two little peanuts.

Harlow Eve

Hudson Alexander

Life will never be the same but I couldn't be happier with the new direction it's headed.

Books as Art

2011-03-30T07:49:00.001-07:00

I just love these beautifully illustrated books by Penguin Threads releasing this Fall (the next endeavor from the creative folks that brought us the brilliant Penguin Classics series that line the shelves of Anthropologie). Artist Jillian Tamaki illustrated each cover before stitching the final design. The final covers are embossed to imitate the feel of the stitching. Simply stunning!

Spotted on The Atlantic, courtesy of Shelf Awareness.

Pretty Spring Flowers

2011-03-27T17:17:00.001-07:00

I'm getting pretty tired of all this rain but at least my garden is happy!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Dreaming of Paris

2011-03-25T12:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

Le Flâneur (music by The XX) from Luke Shepard on Vimeo.

Spotted on Splendora

My Little Secret

2011-03-17T17:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my friend Coquette, I came across this simple dress that'll be perfect for the changing seasons and my changing body. I've been keeping a very big secret for a while now and I guess it's time to share that I am almost 7 months pregnant with twins. I am beyond thrilled and am simply over the moon. I seriously thought this day would never come. After a very long journey, I'm excited to say we'll be welcoming a little boy and a girl sometime in the near future. The official due date is June 14th but twins have a way of arriving several weeks early. I've been in serious nesting mode with the house and running errands so it's nice to have a little pick-me-up all for me coming my way in the mail. Cheers to new adventures!

Ruched T-Shirt Dress from Isabella Oliver

Nesting

2011-03-06T18:40:00.000-08:00

I've been on a rampage nesting and decorating lately and this mirror is still on my obsession list. Ever since I worked with Ron & Jaime on their book, High Style, several years ago I've wanted to add this mirror to my collection. It would be perfect above my fireplace.

Sunset Mirror by Woodson & Rummerfield

Counting Sheep

2011-03-04T13:48:00.001-08:00

If only I were in New York this weekend I would hoof it down to Times Square to see these darling paper sheep!

They're part of an installation by the Time Square Alliance Public Art Program. Spotted on Elle Decor.

Happy Shoes

2011-02-23T10:47:00.000-08:00

I love love love these bright yellow Tory Burch ballet flats. They're the perfect pick me up for this chilly weather we've been having lately.

Tory Burch Eddie Ballet Flat

Bookshelf Tree

2011-02-17T15:30:00.001-08:00

How cute is this tree bookshelf? It would be perfect for a little kids playroom.

Spotted in the March issue of Martha Stewart Living magazine.

Beach Escape

2011-02-09T16:31:00.000-08:00

I'm flying away on a little vacation to Playa del Carmen, Mexico tomorrow. I can't wait to spend the days lounging in a hammock and floating in the ocean. See you next week!

Eat Cake for Breakfast

2011-02-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

How can you not love a video that tells you to eat cake for breakfast?!

Promotional film for Kate Spade spotted on Oh Joy

I'm in Love

2011-01-27T14:44:00.001-08:00

I love this necklace. Psssst... Valentine's Day is right around the corner!

Hammered Horseshoe Necklace spotted on a little sussy

Early Morning Hikes

2011-01-27T07:20:00.001-08:00

I'm so excited that the days are getting longer. It means I can resume me sunrise hikes with my dog before work. I love hearing the birds chirping and watching the sun peek out from behind Mt. Tam. Another beautiful day.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Sunshine Chandelier

2011-01-26T11:58:00.000-08:00

I spotted this lovely mobile over on Ohdeedoh this morning. I think it's so cheery.

The Sunshine Chandelier by LilSproutCreations
Spotted on Ohdeedoh

Dolly Lashes

2011-01-23T21:13:00.000-08:00

I stopped by the Chanel counter today to see what was new and I fell in love with their new Inimitable Intense Mascara. It seriously makes your lashes look like spiders - in a good way. Try it!

Chanel Inimitable Intense Mascara

So True

2011-01-20T16:23:00.001-08:00

Spotted on Creature Comforts
From Patina

House Projects!

2011-01-17T20:35:00.000-08:00

We made a very quick decision to have our hardwood floors refinished and we had to move everything out of our upstairs living area over the weekend so they could get started today. Since the project sort of fell into our laps, we had to decide very quickly what color to stain the floors. I grabbed handfuls of old Domino magazines that I had saved and came across the perfect chocolate brown called Jacobean. We think it's going to bring a more modern elegance to our home and now that the stress of moving out is over, we can carefully move back in and start fresh - what a way to get a jump start on the spring cleaning!

Yes please!

2011-01-06T17:02:00.000-08:00

This time last year I was strolling around Paris with a cup of warm mulled wine in hand. I wish I could be back there now...

Via Little Brown Pen

She Was Never Boring

2010-12-31T10:43:00.000-08:00

I love this Pet Shop Boys video from the 90s. It never fails to remind me of New Year's Eve. My sweet hubby and I are heading off to the desert tonight for some R&R and maybe a few parties. Here's to an exciting 2011!

Holiday Treats

2010-12-23T10:51:00.000-08:00

There's something about this time of year that makes me giddy. I hate the cold so it's odd that over time it's the time that I look forward to the most. I love when all the Christmas lights get turned on, stores are brimming with sales and nights are spent cuddled up by the fire. For me, the season kicks off the minute I spot the first "red cup" from Starbucks. I haven't been drinking coffee for months, but something about this first spotting sends me into a tailspin of anticipation.

My current Starbucks beverage of choice is a Peppermint Hot Chocolate - 1 pump peppermint, 2 pumps chocolate - otherwise it's too overpowering.

Next on my holiday tradition list is the Williams-Sonoma Peppermint Bark (Obviously, I've got a thing for peppermint chocolate). I've tried them all. Nothing compares. It's expensive but oh so worth it. I've been known to eat an entire tin in a day, so this year I'm taking it with me to visit my family so I will need to share.

Willaims-Sonoma Peppermint Bark

What are your favorite holiday treats?

Flowers from Friends

2010-12-22T15:47:00.001-08:00

Oh how I love being surprised at work with flowers. I received this beautiful bouquet today from one of my dearest friends and her lovely family.

Happy holidays!

Lucky Me

2010-12-21T14:58:00.001-08:00

I'm going to see the Nutcracker tonight at the San Francisco Ballet. Can't wait!

San Francisco Ballet

Isn't this cute?

2010-12-15T20:39:00.000-08:00

I love this seahorse photo that I came across on the Mighty Girl blog.

Seahorses

Argentina

2010-12-15T17:56:00.000-08:00

We're back from our whirlwind adventure to Argentina and had a wonderful time. South America was never high on my list of places to go (don't know why!) but I highly highly recommend it. It was fabulous. Buenos Aires reminded me of Italy, Spain and Mexico all rolled up into one fabulous city. My favorite pocket was Palermo Hollywood where we stayed and I adored all the intricate graffiti covering the buildings. I wish I had taken more photos, I guess I'll have to go back.

Special Scents

2010-11-19T14:10:00.000-08:00

When I travel I try to pick up a new perfume so it reminds me of my vacation each time I put it on. When I was in Paris last January, I fell in love with Jeanne by Lanvin. I've since run out and am contemplating getting more but I'll have to see if something speaks to me in Argentina first!

Baking Beauties

2010-11-18T17:01:00.001-08:00

I really want to form a tradition of baking dozens and dozens of cookies for the holidays. I'm hoping to start when I return from vacation!

So Good Together

2010-11-11T16:12:00.001-08:00

How cute are these bowls?

Spotted on Oh Joy. Created by Pigeon Toe Ceramics and Shanna Murray.

Already Thinking of Spring

2010-11-07T10:12:00.001-08:00

It's not quite Winter yet and I'm already pining for the longer days and warmer weather of Spring. I love this little green jumper from the Spring '11 J.Crew collection, I'll have to add it to my wish list.

J.Crew Spring 2011 Collection via Fashionista

Pumpkins

2010-10-18T11:43:00.000-07:00

It was a chilly, rainy weekend here in the bay but staying inside nestled next to the fire was just what the doctor ordered to nurse my stubborn cold. I baked some gluten-free pumpkin muffins from this book, but I may have done something wrong because they took f-o-r-e-v-e-r to bake and were still gooey and fell in the center after letting them hang out in the over for 15 minutes longer than the recipe recommended. Somehow the rest of the weekend got away from me but here are a few festive photos from my front yard.

Pumpkin family

Our grape harvest

Trick or Treat

Freshly Baked

2010-10-04T09:53:00.000-07:00

Fall is my favorite time of year. I love knowing the holidays are right around the corner, I love the gold light, I love the colorful leaves and I love to bake anything with cinnamon. To kick off the fall, I decided to embark on baking my first-ever homemade apple pie from this book.

Having never made a crust before, it was definitely the most challenging part but I have to say, I'm pretty darned proud of myself for figuring it out. This was an all day affair but it was the perfect way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon. Delicious!

Peeling the apples, fresh from the Farmers Market

Cooking the apples down

Perfect apple pie

I Heart San Francisco

2010-09-30T15:33:00.000-07:00

I am in love with San Francisco and even after 10 years of calling the Bay Area home, I still can hardly believe I'm lucky enough to live here. I adore this stop-animation video shot in and around the city.

San Francisco: The Miniature City from MINIMUS on Vimeo.

Thank you to Christina for posting it!

Pretty Pictures

2010-09-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

I spent the weekend at a photoshoot for Famous Frocks, an amazing sewing book I'm working on for Fall 2011. I jumped at the chance to bring the dresses to life and was even more thrilled when I was assigned the Audrey Hepburn look. The crew was amazing and I had a blast. Can't wait for the book to come out!

Mini Makeover

2010-09-20T10:57:00.000-07:00

Ever since we bought our house I've been wanting to re-paint the kitchen and bathrooms. Well, this weekend we finally painted and I love it! Here's a sneak peek...

Our kitty Misa checking it out
Benjamin Moore Cloud Gray

No more shiny green walls!
Benjamin Moore Ashley Gray

Lady in White

2010-09-18T11:44:00.001-07:00

I adore this dress from the Victoria Beckham Spring 2011 collection. See the whole collection on Style.com.

Ferry Building Adventures

2010-09-17T15:28:00.000-07:00

I've been getting up early every morning and starting to work around 5:45am. I sounds crazy but I absolutely cherish this time to clean out my inbox, leisurely sip my tea and watch the sunrise with my animals. So today I thought I would take some extra time at lunch to get inspired at the beautiful Ferry Building.

Mushrooms for my best friend. She loves them. I detest them.

Flowers fresh from the wonderful McEvoy Ranch

Peppers from the McEvoy Ranch garden

Heath Ceramics. Want.

Cheese from Cowgirl Creamery

Miette. I die.

Bestsellers, including the new Oprah selection, Freedom, at Book Passage

Have a great Friday!

I Can Cook!

2010-09-16T12:33:00.000-07:00

I often make declarations on new projects or ideas that I'm going to try to execute and this September I vowed that I would try to learn to cook. My hubby has lovingly taken me under his highly skilled wing and is trying to teach me the ropes. We've made some apple fig almond risotto, kale, bacon & bean soup and butternut squash halibut stew. All have turned out very very well if I do say so myself!

This week, I decided to take a cooking class with the lovely Emily Dellas at First Class Cooking. She offers amazing interactive classes in her beautiful home and when you're done prepping the meal everyone eats together in her dining room overlooking the city. It's a wonderful way to spend the night. I was so caught up in making the meal that I only remembered to snap a few photos.

The ingredients to our heirloom tomato, peach, burrata and basil salad

Lemon, herb quinoa

C rusted zucchini, eggplant and tofu for the vegetarians

Dinner, including pistachio crusted sea bass

Homemade chocolate-hazelnut gelato

If you're in the Bay Area, I highly recommend you sign up for her mailing list. She sends out the menu at the beginning of the month so you can pick your date. Classes fill up quickly so book early!

Alexa Chung for Madewell

2010-09-09T16:22:00.000-07:00

Fashion Week has officially arrived and so has Alexa Chung's new collection for Madewell. I'm loving this black polka-dot blouse and think it would be perfect for the holidays.

Annie Blouse

Off to the desert!

2010-09-03T14:19:00.000-07:00

I'm heading to my favorite hotel this weekend for some R&R in the hot desert sun. Here are a few pics of my last visit. I'm betting my weekend will pretty much look the same. Happy long weekend!

Walking through the lobby

Reading in the pool

Cruising around town

Anthro in Argentina

2010-09-01T15:46:00.000-07:00

The new Anthropologie catalog just landed today and it is delicious. It was shot in Argentina and features the beautiful Criollo breed of wild horses. I am now even more excited for my upcoming trip in November...

Photo from Anthropologie

Fancy Photos

2010-08-25T18:30:00.000-07:00

My lovely friend Christina has been experimenting with photography lately and I'm loving her latest set including this dreamy picture of me.

Photo by Christina

Another Fave

2010-08-18T11:53:00.001-07:00

Check out this INCREDIBLE video created be two other fave authors I have the pleasure of working with, Meg Mateo Illasco and Joy Deangdeelert Cho.

Isn't it perfect?

Wallpaper Love

2010-08-16T13:11:00.000-07:00

One of the things that I love most about my job is the amazing artists and authors I get to meet and work with on a daily basis. One of my all time favorites is fabric designer, Amy Butler. Not only is Amy an absolute doll to work with, she creates the most gorgeous fabric, bedding, rugs, towels... and now wallpaper! Swoon!

Amy Butler Wallpaper for Graham & Brown

2010-08-15T18:39:00.000-07:00

It's been a quiet weekend chez moi as both the hubby and I are trying to recover from a cold that we caught while we were away (it must be our bodies missing our morning snorkeling adventures). So last night we curled up and watched A Single Man directed by Tom Ford which we thoroughly enjoyed. The costumes were immaculate, as were the interiors and I couldn't help but wish I could hang out in Julianne Moore's closet and play a little while.

Julianne Moore stars as Charlotte in The Weinstein Company's A Single Man (2009)
Copyright © The Weinstein Company. All Rights Reserved.

Aloha!

2010-08-10T10:20:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I just returned from a long weekend in Hawaii to celebrate our 7th Wedding Anniversary. Since copper or wool didn't really appeal to us as a gift, we decided to run away to the sun and surf. The flight was quick and our amazing resort was only 10 minutes from the airport. Highly recommend.

Gorgeous sunsets

The view from our Hale

Beautiful flowers aplenty

Coconut palms

The hammock beckons from the black sand beach

Our swimming pool

Surf's up!

The love birds

Friday Funnies

2010-07-30T10:33:00.001-07:00

Whoops! How did it become Friday already? I'm so excited because we've started a new tradition of riding our bikes to Pizzeria Picco and devouring their amazing pizzas (I cheat on my gluten-free diet on Friday's lately, ok?). It's the perfect way to start the weekend.

And if you need a few giggles, check out the videos from the Harvard Sailing Team. Hilarious!

Let Them Eat Cake

2010-07-23T11:33:00.001-07:00

It's Friday and I would like cake. Specifically, I'd like this Old-fashioned chocolate cake with Italian meringue frosting from Miette.

To see more delicious deserts, check out The Big Sweet SF: 50 Treats to Eat Before You Die from 7x7 magazine.

Girl Crush

2010-07-21T14:41:00.000-07:00

Last night we watched Pedro Almodovar's beautiful film, Broken Embraces starring Penelope Cruz. The movie was visually stunning and wildly intriguing. I have a serious girl crush on Miss Cruz.

Summer Styles

2010-07-21T11:13:00.000-07:00

We just booked a trip to Hawaii for our wedding anniversary next month and I can't wait to hit the beach. This dress will be the perfect thing for cruising around the island and exploring the sights!

Ice Cream Sandwich Dress from ModCloth

Happy Friday!

2010-07-16T10:52:00.000-07:00

Hilarious! Thanks Lisa!

"If you find yourself the last to arrive at Gary and Elaine’s dinner party, you’d better enjoy sitting on swivel stools and staring at images of a haunted forest all night."

Catalog Living

Apartment Therapy

2010-07-15T15:20:00.000-07:00

Since we moved into our own house about 2 years ago, I've become more and more obsessed with interior design. I want to make changes but I get nervous to make mistakes. One of my friends and favorite bloggers, Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan just sent me a copy of his gorgeous new book, apartment therapy's Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces and I'm in love. It shows you that whether you are designing a foyer or a nursery, just fill it with things that you love. Whether it's a vintage tea cup that prompts you to curl up with a book or a framed photo of your family - let your personality shine through and mistakes will be few and far between.

My Besties

2010-07-15T14:43:00.001-07:00

I love living in California - it makes me happy beyond words - but the one thing that I don't love is how far away my two best friends are. Come visit!

Together. Christmas 2009

Shoes Please

2010-07-13T16:28:00.001-07:00

I love these wedges by Toms shoes. I hope they make more before the summer is out because they're sold out in my size.

Toms Calypso Canvas Wedges

Happy Friday!

2010-07-09T14:20:00.000-07:00

It's almost time to log off for the weekend and head out into the wilderness! Well, sort of. We'll be glam-ping this weekend in Bear Valley. See you Monday!

Lake Alpine Resort

Toast

2010-07-07T18:30:00.000-07:00

My friend Hannah recently told me about this brilliant company in the UK called Toast. Their catalog is dreamy and makes me want to hop on my bike and head to the countryside with a pile of books and a picnic. They're currently having a sale so head over and check it out!

Toast UK

Seahorse & Sunshine

2010-07-05T16:40:00.001-07:00

I love this Seahorse pillow! It's the perfect accent for my sunny backyard.

Thomas Paul Seahorse Pillow

Sometimes Dreams Come True

2010-07-04T23:10:00.000-07:00

I got my dream bike. (the basket is coming next week) Happy July 4th!

Bike riding in Sonoma, CA

Bikini Babe

2010-06-28T11:47:00.000-07:00

Marc Jacobs Gone Fishing Bikini

I've had my eye on this bikini from Marc Jacobs and it popped up today on Gilt. Yay! We'll have to book a beach vacation asap!

Mexico Comes to California

2010-06-28T08:54:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I often escape to Mexico and we love the iron star lights that decorate many of the restaurants and hotels. We've tried to find them in little shops but have never found exactly what we were looking for. Who knew that we'd stumble into them in our own backyard, and on sale! We need to refinish our deck but once we do, these lovely lights will be lighting up our patio just like Kim Mitchell would have wanted.

Filagree Star Pendants, Pottery Barn

Bike

2010-06-20T19:49:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I went on a leisurely bike ride yesterday morning and ended up a few towns over in Larkspur where I found my dream bike. This is the bike that I've had in my head for over a year. The only thing missing is the wicker basket on the front. Weeeeeee!

Electra Amsterdam Original

Stylish Pup

2010-06-20T18:27:00.000-07:00

Handmade by BowWowCouture

I just bought this adorable handmade dog tag on Etsy for Rufus. Can't wait to see him sporting his new bling.

My New Favorite Store

2010-06-18T22:14:00.000-07:00

I was just introduced to Lotus Bleu in Hayes Valley here in SF. It's the most amazing interior design store filled to the brim with colorful fabrics, wallpapers, rugs, vases, pillows and more. If you are looking to spruce up your space, this is a perfect place to spend an hour or two. After all that shopping you can zip over to Paulette for some macarons. Heaven!

Image from Lotus Bleu

When I Feel Sad

2010-06-16T17:41:00.000-07:00

Not sure where this came from but I love it!

Gotta love NPH!

On Repeat

2010-06-15T09:37:00.001-07:00

I currently can't get enough of Massive Attack's Paradise Circus - I've had it on repeat in my car for 2 days now...

Kelly Green Envy

2010-06-13T20:35:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting a men's watch for a while now and I just came across this gorgeous vintage Rolex on 1st Dibs. I love the kelly green face and the tailored lines. It's simple, classic and perfect.

Love Lonny

2010-06-11T13:55:00.000-07:00

The new issue of Lonny is online - I love it! I wish it were in print so I can curl up in my backyard with a lemonade and read it in the sunshine...

Community Gardening

2010-06-10T17:10:00.000-07:00

Last Friday our company closed it's doors so the employees could head out into the community and volunteer. My group went to the Hayes Valley Farm, a community garden built on the former 101 on/off ramp. We learned how to create dirt out of old cardboard boxes and horse manure, grow potatoes in a cylinder made of chicken wire and painted signs to display around the garden. I was inspired to start my own mini-food garden so hopefully we'll start that in the near future!

Love Notes

2010-05-08T21:29:00.000-07:00

wall decal by Shanna Murray

I love these wall decals that I came across on Design*Sponge. I'm planning to paint a chalkboard wall in my kitchen one of these days and this would be the perfect message for my hubby to see every day.

Club Monaco

2010-05-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

Since I moved to the Bay Area I seem to always forget about Club Monaco. It was my go-to staple when I was in Toronto (it's hometown) and somehow I never make it over there any more. I just saw their Fall 2010 lookbook on refinery29 and I'm reminded why I used to love it so. Simple and classic, yet fashion forward and inspiring. I must go shopping!

Photo by Garance Dore in the Fall 2010 Club Monaco Lookbook

Sunday Jewels

2010-04-25T19:59:00.000-07:00

Today the hubby and I took advantage of the gorgeous weather and cruised up to Yountville with the top down in the Mini Cooper. We met up with our friend Kirsten Muenster to enjoy a fabulous trunk show for her new line of jewelry. I had a hard time choosing a favorite as I could have easily gone home with every piece she creates - from the incredible rings to the amazingpendents to the handsome cufflinks - I seriously want it all.

The show was held at Ma(i)sonry in Yountville which is a wonderful space filled with art, antiques and curiosities. We sat in the garden under a canopy of trees at a huge fallen wood table with good wine and old and new friends - it was a splendid way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Coachella

2010-04-21T16:08:00.001-07:00

We just got back from an incredible adventure in Palm Springs & Indio, CA at the Coachella Music Festival. I'm not a festival person per se but Coachella was honestly one of the best experiences of my life. So much music! Spectacular scenery! Gorgeous people! Happy people! It was amazing.

We found a ton of new music that we've had on heavy rotation since we got back. Currently playing on repeat? Miike Snow's Sylvia. So good!

a day in the bay

2010-03-18T11:12:00.001-07:00

puppy

ferry building

divisidero

golden gate

marin

rodeo beach sunset

Liberty of London

2010-03-14T19:54:00.000-07:00

We had a gorgeous day bike riding in Sonoma and on the way home I convinced my hubby to stop at Target so I could check out the Liberty of London launch. I had seen that my local Target was almost sold out so we ventured to one near Sonoma which turned out to be the smart thing to do! I picked up some adorable dresses and a top for our upcoming trip to Mexico. Love!

I got this pink ruffle halter dress and this blue smocked top maxi dress. Both will be perfect for sipping margharita's by the ocean.

Light Me Up

2010-03-11T17:25:00.000-08:00

Spotted on Design is Mine

I've been looking for a new light fixture for my front hallway because the one that is currently there is a bit traditional for my taste. I think this one would look really pretty.

"It look like she is wearing someone’s sheet."

2010-03-07T22:14:00.000-08:00

I love the Oscars. Thank you Famecrawler for this hilarious post.

Image from Famecrawler.com

Bonjour Coco

2010-03-06T23:18:00.000-08:00

My lips are naturally very red and so I find myself rarely wearing lipstick as the color never looks the same in the tube as it does on my lips. I've been obsessing lately however, over the new Chanel Coco Rouge lipstick ad campaign starring Vanessa Paradis.

image from Stylefrizz.com

She is the perfect Chanel woman in my mind and the image of her singing from her perch in a giant birdcage from their 1992 campaign is forever ingrained in my mind.

I think I'm due for a new look and some bright, gorgeous lipstick just might do the trick. A stop at the Chanel counter sounds like a good plan for tomorrow.

Perfect Mornings

2010-03-05T08:16:00.000-08:00

Recently I've stopped drinking coffee and eating most pastries (I guess I overdid it in Paris?). I needed a little pick-me-up this morning however and I decided to head to my favorite new hang-out, the Woodlands Cafe. It's heaven. It really is. I tried the blueberry scone which was fresh out of the oven and it didn't disappoint. Happy Friday!

I ♥ Macarons

2010-03-02T17:46:00.000-08:00

Today's Wall St. Journal had an article on the rising popularity of macarons and it featured the new Chronicle Book, I ♥ Macarons.

I love when they are a little bit dense and slightly chewy and not too airy or creamy. On a recent trip to Paris, I am proud to say that I visited Laduree daily and it didn't disappoint. The quaint little green jewel of a store was like something out of a highly stylized movie and I loved it. Each box was carefully packed with all the colors of the rainbow and they would bring me an unexplained feeling of joy. Now, if only they'd open in San Francisco...

I Wish I Had Dinner Parties

2010-03-01T23:59:00.000-08:00

I've never been the person who hosted fabulous dinner parties - but I'm going to be. To help facilitate that New Year's Resolution though I need a new dining room table and chairs. I've been looking for a round table that could fit 6 people and I think I've finally found it at Z Gallerie of all places. Introducing the Harper table
and the Lola Side Chair in Pewter. You like?

Happy Birthday Weekend

2010-02-14T18:13:00.000-08:00

Last month we celebrated my hubby's 35th birthday with a ski trip to Lake Tahoe and then a secret getaway to Calistoga - we called this combo the Ski n' Soak. One day you're swooshing down the slopes, the next you are floating in a natural hot springs pool. Ahhh... California.

It's Fall! It's Fall!

2009-09-30T17:04:00.000-07:00

I get so excited when the leaves start to rustle and fall from the trees, the light turns a golden yellow and the days are warmer (at least in San Francisco!). I just want to run around and play! I think Rufus agrees.

Last Minute Holiday Gift

2008-12-26T12:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays everyone! Even though Christmas has now come and gone, I'm sure some of you will still be visiting friends and family in the next few days and need something to bring as a gift. This was my favorite treat to give my co-workers and neighbors this year and it takes less than 10 minutes to make.

ToastnCandy's Easy Holiday Bark

1. Get a bag of 60% cocoa dark chocolate & a prepackaged bag of fruit & nuts from Trader Joe's. I used a mix of almonds, pistachios and dried cherries but you can use whatever you like.

2. Boil a pot of water.

3. Place the chocolate chips inside a mug and set inside the pot of boiling water.

4. Stir the chocolate until it is melted.

5. Pour the chocolate onto a tin foil-lined baking sheet and spread it out so it's even.

6. Sprinkle your nut mixture on top.

7. Let sit overnight to harden.

8. Package in pretty bags, tie it with a bow and voila! Easy (and yummy!) holiday gift.

Pretty Stationery

2008-07-23T09:24:00.001-07:00

I'm so pleased with my new personalized stationery (a gift from my hubby for our 5 year wedding anniversary!) that I had to share. It's from the lovely ladies at HelloLucky! here in San Francisco. If you live in the city, definitely stop by their offices on Howard St. & 6th to say "hello", you won't be disappointed.

Tree Jewelry

2008-06-27T15:15:00.000-07:00

What a happy thing to find on a Friday! I'm not sure why, but I just love this TREE JEWELRY. Can't you picture it gleaming in your backyard on a hot sunny day?

The view on my morning bike ride

2008-05-12T07:30:00.000-07:00

Mmmmm... Poutine.

2008-04-22T11:55:00.000-07:00

On the road

2008-04-19T12:56:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Philadelphia! We're heading to Ottawa to see my family
for a few days and we're enjoying a relaxing layover in Philly. Here's
my hubby chillin' in a rocker - the airport is full of them.

The 80s in Canada at it's best

2008-03-29T22:29:00.000-07:00

Springtime munchies

2008-03-29T20:47:00.000-07:00

My kitty doesn't like anything except chicken. Max Cat Roasted Chicken
to be exact. So when I brought home a little pot of kitty grass the
other day, I thought it was the next to find itself snubbed by Miss
Misa. To my surprise, this kitty grass has had magical effects on my
cat. She lazily lounges beside it, gazing at the fresh green pot as if
she were madly in love. Now that's one happy cat!

iPhone test

2008-03-07T06:19:00.000-08:00

A friend just taught me how to post from my iPhone!

Ode to Yellow Shoes

2008-02-02T21:24:00.000-08:00

This fall when I went to Barcelona I had visions of finding some beautiful yellow heels. I searched high and low and even dragged my hubby clear to the other side of town to a little shop rumored to have designer shoes at bargain prices. Alas, they did have designer shoes and the prices were just north of bargain but they were a little too er... European for me. Zippers. Odd colors and high heeled boots made of plastic and mesh. Sigh...

I just received a mailer from the clever people at Piperlime for 20% off my next purchase. Egad! These are the shoes from my visions! Maybe my hubby will find them a suitable Valentines gift?

Winter Wonderland

2008-01-11T20:32:00.000-08:00

I'm a little tardy in posting this photo but it's one of my favorites from the holiday season. My hubby and I decided to take a walk one night up Fillmore and we came across this...
Oh snowy Marc Jacobs goodness! Not only did the window have the largest swan boat I had ever seen but a snow prince and princess were on hand for photo ops. They seemed less than enthused by the time we got there (it was almost closing) so I didn't get a shot but thought this photo was beautiful nonetheless.