December Recap

It is really going to be 2011? My, the years are flying by! Not to mention the month of December was an absolute blur (see: finals, holiday shopping, extended hours at work, traveling, etc.). However now that most of the holiday hustle and bustle is settling down, I have had some time to appreciate the best parts of 2010. My time spent at home for Christmas was absolutely lovely, but far too short. Here are the highlights of my holiday:

Seriously sparkly, gold nails. They are decals
made by InCoCo that my sister shared with us!

A print of a Parisian street with hot air balloons in the distance,
in an absolutely gorgeous frame from Brookie

A hand made bracelet that is oh-so-sparkly and ties with a
big bow! Perfect!

Ready to jet-set over to France with this guide
and a book on fashion bloggers. 

My homemade chalkboard that I just added to
my tiny room. (Such a fun DIY craft).

In the next week I am celebrating my best friend, Kylee's 21st birthday in Los Angeles and ringing in 2011 with my sisters in Santa Barbara. I guess I need to start gearing up for party time. Oh, the holidays!

Stockings to Stuff?

Christmas is sooooo on my radar. Just today I watched two holiday movies (Miracle on 34th Street and Home Alone)! With Christmas only thirteen days away (yikes!), I couldn't help but browse my favorite sites for little "add-on" gifts for friends and family members. These are my favorite finds and top suggestions if you need some stocking stuffer ideas for a fabulous girl in your life.

Seasonal Decor by Gump's
Clutches by Felix Rey

Indulgences

Armand Diradourian, Smart Cookie Pillow

Jayson, Goldleaf Bird Ornament

Topshop, Swan Ring

Betsey Johnson, Lace Mesh briefs in leopard

Felix Rey, Love Birds Clutch

Gump's, Cupcake ornament

Topshop, Fairisle socks

Deborah Lippman, 24kt nail polish

Nars, Dovima nail polish

Jayson, gold Pineapple bowl

Fred Flare, Leopard Wrap ring

Betsey Johnson, Itsy Bitsy Dots knee socks

Gump's, Golden Wood wreath (for decoration around the stockings!)

Winter Weather Wishlist

Tonight I was planning on celebrating the end of the quarter downtown but with dropping temperatures and a plethora of Christmas movies on TV, I opted to stay in, take a hot bath, and sip some chamomile tea. I guess its just that time of year. These are a few things I wouldn't mind having around on nights like these.

Cashmere Sweaters by Sonia Rykiel
Boots by Urban Outfitters

Indulgences include:

Sonia Rykiel, Cashmere sweater

Asos, Bow gloves

See by Chloe, Pom Pom scarf

Mimi Holliday, Fete Conquine silk bra and brief

Urban Expressions, Heart clutch

China Glaze, Ruby Pumps polish (currently on my toes, and my absolute favorite)

Urban Outfitters, Festive slippers

What A Week.

I have to say... these past 9-10 days have been difficult. After losing my beloved grandmother last week every other negative event in my life has been amplified to the point where I was able to cry on demand. Such events included: Josie the Jeep going to mechanic heaven (and away from me) and finals week becoming "write as many papers as you can" week. Fortunately, this week is over in two days and then I can relax appropriately alongside my puppies, sisters, mama and pops.

While the past week has been trying, I have several things I am infinitely grateful for:

After losing my Grandma last week, my sister and I were given the opportunity to go through her clothes and take what we wished. This was like a dream come true for me. Searching through my Grandma's vintage clothes and taking whatever I wanted?? Yes, please! As I drove back to Santa Barbara last weekend with two HUGE bags full of my grandma's beautiful clothes in tow, I couldn't help but smile, shed a tear and remind myself of how lucky I was to bring a piece of her home with me. Definitely a positive spin on a rough weekend.

A handful of my finds: A satin, peach jumpsuit, a tan leather coat,
a fur stole and a comfy, red sweater.  

Grandma and Grandpa on their wedding day.
Stunning, right?

My dad. My personal new-used-car-finder. Even after en emotional week he is still willing to help me find and finance some wheels. What a guy! 

My mama. She sure knows how to cheer me up. While home last week she introduced me to the most amazing christmas store, that is stocked with pre-decorate, themed trees. There was a whole tree devoted to owls! 

A corvette themed tree.

And an owl themed tree. So cute!

My aunt and cousins, who hooked me up with eyelash extensions. I have to say, them are am-az-ing.  They are located in Santa Cruz and have great prices (about 1/4 of what you would be charged anywhere else). Their website is in the making but if you would like their contact information let me know! 

Love you forever, Grandma.

So, in honor of one of the most inspiring and beautiful women I have met, I vow to let go of the stress and anxiety I have experienced this week (as Grandma deDiego always said "Take it one day at a time") and wear some of the most amazing vintage clothes I have ever come across. Thank you for the wonderful memories Grandma.