Violently Happy

Mix Tape Fridays Vol 14

2012-02-10T17:42:00.000-08:00

This has been a pretty kick ass week so I'm making a special Kick Ass FREEKY Mix Tape!

Thanks Story from turning me on to the Freekiness!! Yolandi Vissa is super cute

"I Fink U Freeky" Die Antwoord

LOVE!!!

"Come to Daddy" Aphex Twin

Sometimes I'm just in a German Industrial rocking mood...

"Du Hast" Rammstein

This one is for Aimee, cause Annabelle Lwin is FREAKY!!! but I love this song.

"Aphrodisiac" Bow Wow Wow

This song is dedicated to my lovely. His name is Antz and I want to dance to this with him.

"Jaan Pehechaan Ho" Muhammad Rafi *from the Ghost World soundtrack*

Mandatory Björk song off the week. This B-side is such an incredible song. I haven't heard it for years until I made Evelyn & Dion a mix tape for their care package. Bloody fantastic!
*not sure why they are showing the Joga video*

"Sod Off" Björk

Original Bad-ass, Johnny Cash

"Boy Named Sue" Johnny Cash

Antz is all over her lately...I wonder why?

"Blue Jeans" Lana del Rey aka Elizabeth Grant

Kirsten is SPOT ON!

SNL Weekend Update

Happy Happy Weekend!

Olivia & Molly

2012-02-08T16:44:00.000-08:00

Liv has found a new BFF...MOLLY!!

Molly is my "aunt" Gail's golden retriever

Seeing them play together makes me miss Maxwell *his 1 year anniversary is next month*

Super Cute!

Gail is showing Liv photos of her Grandmother

This is always my favorite time of year, tax refund *$$$* and catching up my Gail time. While Liv, Antz & Molly enjoyed the sunshine in Gail's garden and hung out with their chickens. Gail & I were inside crunching numbers and discussing our fondness of classical music and private schools. I got my magic number again this year, so it seems I can now make a final decision for where we are going for Liv's 2nd birthday. I still haven't heard from the pre-school who should be calling me any day to schedule an intake meeting to help them make their decision. There's always something for me to stress about, even when everything is perfect!

Serenity NOW!!!

New Discovery

2012-02-08T00:16:00.000-08:00

I just found something that has me all giddy. I have now accepted that my tiny Missoni for Target suitcase is better equiped for a weekend in San Francisco or Palm Springs. However, for our 8 days in Paris, no good. I am not even sure Antz Swiss Army suitcase would be sufficient. Then I found this guy

Cooperative Rolling Trunk Luggage

This bag is so fly, and it's on sale $49 marked down from $149, BUUUUT...it has mixed reviews *as UO often has* and folks are warning about cheap quality, flimsy buckle closure and plastic wheels. Athough I prefer not to, I will have to check my bag so I don't want my wardrobe to explode in the cargo hold *I worked for an airline, it happens* I also worry I won't fit the 5 pairs of shoes I plan to bring. I might have to borrow a bag from my Mom *who has traveled around the world* and has more sensible luggage.

I am super bummed the backpack sold out before I could nab it *as I knew it would* yet items come back in stock all the time and I do have 2 years to find an alternative. I've been using Jordan's Paris guide at Oh Happy Day! for invaluable insight on places to see off the beaten track, yummy food and this awesome article about traveling with kids

Jordan looks like she's lived in Paris her entire life *she's from SF* I am not a huge fan of macarons but I am dying over how gorge the boxes are. I will definitely grab a few boxes for gifts to bring home.

Oh Happy Day!

I have been ~~perfecting~~ putting together our itinerary for a year now *yep, crazy lady, right here* I may be trying to squeeze in too much everyday. I have my must-dos and then my like-to-dos but I have 3 things working against me. I have to keep in mind we are traveling with a *will be* 4 year old, so I'll have to find more things that will hold her attention *maybe a playground or toy shop* and make more time for naps *which are more for us than her*. Then there's transportation, I intend to buy the Metro pass yet when I look at the daily maps, we are zigzagging all over the city. I hope we will be able to rent bikes via Velib yet they don't have any child seats. Would it be possible to strap a close to 50 lb Liv on Antz back with our BabyHawk while we bike ride through the city? He doesn't think so *and we would have to find a bike helmet for her* I am hoping our hotel has a helium tank so we can fill our Geronimo balloon for the photo shoot at Jardin d'Acclimatation. I don't want to spend all morning searching for a party store before the photo shoot. I'll have to put their Whenever/Whatever philosophy to the test.

Which leads me to my third biggest conundrum, I still don't know when to take the trip. Airfare is dirt cheap before April *both Air France & British Airways are under $3k*. Yet, it's fricken cold during March. It snowed there last night. With so many things I want to do *outdoors* and so many photo opps, I want nice, sunny weather. BUT, there's a price for the sun in Europe, it's more crowded *particularly the touristy spots I want to visit* and hotels rates and airfare rise. I'm not talking the matter of hundreds but thousands. I am stretching the budget as far as I can now. So I'm still looking at the last week of March. I'll have to layer and pray the clouds beat it for our week. Anyone traveled to Paris in March? Any tips for this California girl are welcome.

That's me with my childhood "big sister" Ada *loving her beads* our Moms were BFFs

Jason Wu for Target

2012-02-05T13:36:00.000-08:00

Due to my irregular sleeping pattern last night, I was not so keen on getting up at 7:30 am like I planned to get to Target for some Jason Wu shopping. Antz woke up around 6:30 *I guess my typing woke him up* but he's always an early riser. He told me my alarm on my phone went off but I just went back to sleep. Then around 8:45, I woke up and was like, I'll drag my ass down there or else they'll be nothing left. I honestly didn't expect anyone to be there since it's Sunday morning and I doubt many folks even know who Jason Wu is *for those who don't, he's the guy who designed Michelle Obama's inaugural ball gown*

He's so cute

I was surprised to see this when I got there at 9. I think the word got out.

Most of his pieces are very delicate chiffon fabric. Not so great for the mom of an active toddler. I still grabbed what I could and shopped for house stuff while I waited for the long fitting room line to dwindle. I had a few dresses *so not flattering on me* a skirt, and a few tops. They were really cute pieces but a little too work clothes for my style. I went to the accessories department and didn't find any Jason Wu anywhere. There was a chick there with a cart full of stuff trying on dresses over her clothes *I guess she didn't want to wait in line for a fitting room* but I hung around until she left. Check out what I scored! I almost went with the cream bag but who are we kidding? I can't keep a light color like that clean for one day, so I took Aimee's advice and bought the floral purse *so cute*

Wu bags!

I got up early and all I got with this lousy Jason Wu tee shirt

This guy is my new favorite. It's the perfect size

Liv keeps pointing to the cat on my shirt. It was worth the sleepiness I'm feeling now, luckily I can nap. We just skyped with Evelyn & Dion. They got our package *YAY*

Hipster Highland Park

2012-02-05T06:29:00.000-08:00

I had one of those I've got to pee moments where you know you can't hold it till morning but you definitely don't want to get out of the warm bed. So you weigh your options until you can't hold it any longer. I relentlessly gave in and got up. Problem is no matter how fast I go, I get back into bed and start thinking, great...now I'm cold again, I'm awake and my cat Lola jumps into the bed and wants snuggle time. Needless to say, I'm now wide awake at 5:38 am!

Since I'm up before the sun, let me tell you what a great time I had ~~tonight~~ last night. I saw my friends *who I don't see as often as I'd like* for dinner at Maximilliano, a new Italian spot here in Highland Park. This was our second time eating there and it's fabulous. I made reservations at 5, right when they open hoping to not catch the Saturday crowds but within a half an hour the place was packed *and I felt the entire time people were giving us the evil eye for staying at our table for so long* but not only is the place incredible the food is absurdly delish. Everyone enjoyed the food, wine and dessert. This cute chick came over and said hi, she remembered meeting us at the Yo Gabba Gabba! art show, how rad!! I hope we can get together for a playdate soon.

This place has changed from a coffee shop to an art gallery and now the most popular place in HP to eat besides the food trucks! *They filmed Yes Man here too*

Liv is so funny, the first half an hour she's terrified of Chris, then she loves him

These meatballs are HEAVEN

My bebe has blurry face

I hate to admit, HP is getting more awesome everyday. So many new shops, art galleries, NELA art walk and restaurants are popping up within walking distance from our house. Everyone is biking, or gardening and all the dudes have 1890's beards or curly moustaches. I am even seeing really cute houses getting redone and selling for prices that are fairly decent.

Should I stay or should I go now?? Don't fret, I still love you Atwater, you're my #1!!

Me & My BFF

2012-02-03T22:13:00.000-08:00

As Antz calls us, My Biscuit Friend Forever!! *snort*

We love our biscuits!!

Don't judge unless you've actually had a buttery Popeyes Biscuit!!

I love this lady!!

Aimee, the Supermodel

2012-02-03T19:15:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was an interesting day. I had my regular date with Aimee but I dropped Liv off at her grandma's house since Aimee was having a photo shoot. Her friend MJ is an amazing amateur photographer. I played lighting assistant, I brought our desk lamp to use during the shoot. Aimee has been telling me that she wants to take boudoir photos ever since she got her sleeve done. I was blown away by how beautiful Aimee looked. She is very shy and modest but I honestly believe this girl could be a model. She's a natural in front of the camera, I had so much fun posing her and observing the magic. I'm so excited to see the pics we took together. I took a few photos with my camera of MJ at work.

She reminds me of a 1920's actress

My BFF is so fucking gorgeous

This is my absolute fave, how lovely!

The natural light was awesome

Yummy Champagne!!

Stunning!!!

J'adore mon ami

Sexy lady *this was my idea*

I kept making her laugh, it wasn't hard at all

Today, Antz joined us at Scruffin Rock! Liv was hamming it up like she was auditioning for So You Think You Can Dance.

Awww yeah, tag team

Liv in action

Michael Jackson toes, get this kid a silver glove!

I'm a bit bummed at the moment cause this morning there was a tragic accident. Liv made potty *#1* on my lovely Anthropologie quilt. *sniff, sniff* I pouted, then took it to the dry cleaners. It's gonna cost $30 and won't be ready until next Thursday. Okay, the money, I get it. It's a king size quilt that reeks of urine. Buuut...I am not a fan of the chemicals used at dry cleaners *formaldehyde, Boo* and I like everything I own to be smothered in Downey freshness. I am one of those. I literally buy a 240 pack of Downey dryer sheets AND the largest Downey liquid softener twice a month *I have a panic attack if I don't have a coupon for my Downey addiction at Target, ask Aimee*. It's practically my signature smell *psst, Downey if you listening, frickin make candles and air spray already* I suppose I could find a way to hang it outside and vigorous dose of Febreze. So I am hoping my beautiful quilt doesn't get ruined. In other news, Liv has been improving in the potty training department. She has been grabbing her pull up before she has to go which gives us a head start to get her to the potty *where I usually wait a half an hour and nothing happens* Yet she pooped twice in the toilet at Antz Mom's house. I think this weekend we'll break out the Yo Gabba Gabba! undies I bought for her to wear around the house. Anyone else in potty training hell?

**I'm so torn if I should go ahead and buy the backpack from ModCloth...yesterday there was 3 in stock and now there's only one left!! Two of you lovelies saw my post and bought them, didn't you??!! It's so cute but I'm not sure I'm ready to spend the money...?

April in Paris

2012-02-01T23:51:00.000-08:00

Such a lovely song.

Ideally, I want to spend my 37th birthday in Paris. However, March is a cold month for Europe and Lizzie does not like cold weather. I have been playing around on my wardrobe mood board

I own about 50% of the mood board so I have some shopping to get done. I don't see rainboots, heavy coats and sweaters fitting in my wardrobe or little suitcase. Then I'm trying to squeeze in a day in Finland to visit my friend, so I'm sure it will be chilly there. I may even have to borrow one of Antz enormous Swiss Army suitcases *that aren't so cute* cause I packed for 3 days when we went to the W Westwood and it was pretty full. I am trying so hard to go minimalist but I like to have options. My goal first was comfort and then style. I know rain is inevitable during the spring so I am hoping some flat boots will suffice. I admit, it may seem cray cray to plan out all my outfits in advance but it helps me visualize how much luggage I'll be taking and deal with potential issues. For example, I would love to get the Upwardly Mobile Satchel for my computer and accessories.

Upwardly Mobile Satchel in Red

Yet, I also need a bag for my camera and I'm torn between using this adorable backpack that will be easy to carry, light and multifuntional

Backpack in the Day

but this camera bag is killing it.


Theit Bossi Bag

As rad as this bag may be, it doesn't seem very practical, BOO! I can only check one bag and one carry on so I need a bag that is large enough to hold all my junk plus any of Liv's stuff and souvenirs on the flight back. I will die if any of my wishlist stuff sells out before I can buy them. I am really thinking of going for the backpack cause it's just too adorable and practical. You're with me, right?

Skirballin'

2012-01-31T13:23:00.000-08:00

This weekend we went to the Skirball Cultural Center with my Mum. It was free museum weekend, so of course, everyone was there. I have been wanting to go see their famous Noah's Ark exhibit for the longest but I was bummed out to find out we would have to wait 2 a half hours to see it. We hung out in the art studio making a dragon for Chinese New Year but Liv wasn't into it. I had to bf her to get her to calm down a bit. We toured the museum and sat around waiting for 1:30 to arrive. I suppose it was worth the wait since Liv enjoyed the interactive features but by the time we left we were tired, hungry and cranky.

WILD CHILD!

I wore my new raspberry trench...Antz is not a fan. I'm not sure if I love it yet, we'll see how it holds up in the rain.

We are definitely taking a hiatus for awhile. Nothing planned for the next month so far except my usual acupuncture, Liv's Scruffin Rock class and our tax appointment. I am still trying to decide/and confirm where we are going for Liv's birthday. How about you lovelies? Any vacations, birthdays or exciting plans coming soon? I find it more fun to have something to look forward to. I need to figure out how to get to Hawaii cause I am super bummed we aren't going to London for the Olympics *sadface*

MAJOR BUMMER!! I was all prepared to give a glowing review about my ASOS leather brogues order. I just received it and I am not happy. Not only did they send me the wrong size *stupid European sizing* but the shoes look worn and have marks on them. Le sigh, I'm apprehensive to reorder them but they are so darn cute and affordable. I can't even tell you how they fit cause they sent a size 8 and my Bigfoot feet are a 10. They feel really hard but all leather shoes need breaking in. Come on Asos, I thought we were cool!!

Looks like two left feet to me

Maybe white shoes is a bad choice for me

Scuffed soles, someone wore these, ew!

I just might exchange them for these. I'll have to read the reviews first.

This made me laugh until I cried

2012-01-27T00:37:00.000-08:00

This boy is so fucking adorable!!

Ooh, this one stings


Sooo guilty!

He's referring to my wings

I swear I can hear his voice speaking directly to me! On a side note: I saw Ryan *in the flesh* at California Adventures on Easter. He was alone and gorge.

Thanks so much to the incredible man who makes makes my heart go pitter patter like no other for putting up with my neurotic quirks, constant complaining and millions of requests. My mega rad hubby, who has actually said all these quotes to me in real life.

Who has two thumbs and loves Antz? This girl!!!

So the plot thickens...

2012-01-26T23:13:00.000-08:00

yikes

It isn't enough that I must lose sleep, tossing and turning with worry that Liv may not be chosen to enroll in the preschool of my dreams, but now I have the arduous task of writing an essay introducing our family in the admissions application. This is pivotal and has given me a steady headache for the last 2 days. I can attest to you all here, writer, I am not. I often ask Antz to proofread letters I write since I am often the culprit of endless run-on sentences and terrible over-usage of !exclamation! points!!! My grammar is deplorable, to say the least. My narrative is below average. I cringe when I read my past blog entries at the numbers of awesomes, rads and ah-mazings I toss around just describing a cookie. *Louis CK would have my ass*
I have written and rewritten this tiny paragraph several times consulting Antz, my Mom and Aimee and then replacing adjectives, finally reminded that I am fine just being my imperfect self. I still panic when I think of what could these other parents be writing? I wonder if we didn't elaborate enough on our 16 year relationship. I don't want to come off as this fake Ozzie & Harriet version of perfection but I also don't want them to think we are cray cray. I wonder if I should impress upon the fact that I have accomplished so many rad things in the past 15 years *Price Is Right Showcase Showdown winner here* but I don't dare to come off as a braggart. Talking to my friend Story, she mentioned how much easier it would be to make it first come, first serve or by lottery but I wouldn't want to be the unlucky one. This way I feel like I am *in some small way* in control of our destiny. WHICH SUCKS!!! I have no plan B. No other school is even in consideration. Her educational future rests on my ability to write a simple essay. I'm sitting in the library at my high school anxiously *and sweating* waiting for the start of my SATs all over again. I'm guilty of over analyzing and freaking out too much, but I can't help myself. Public schools in LA are ridiculous *unless you live in the right zip codes which we don't* I have no clue of how I will compose myself during the interview process. This is what I want to submit...

**names have been changed for privacy

Renee Mease
Director of Admissions
All Souls School
1157 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10021

Dear Ms. Mease,
As All Souls School is one of Manhattan’s premier preschools and you are certain to be terribly busy, it seemed to me a good idea to write you a letter briefly summarizing my application for admission to the Class of 2013.

First, let me say that I can appreciate the difficulty of your position. Picking from a group of applicants so qualified as the one with which you are faced is no easy feat. At Gymboree just yesterday, I saw two of my classmates build a tower of blocks a full six blocks high. It stood proudly for almost 30 seconds, falling only when the two young engineers decided to destroy it so as to gnaw on the blocks.

As for myself, I humbly present a dispassionate list of my diversions. To begin with what may be your most pressing concern, I have been training over the past several months to use a toilet. I currently spend about ten hours a day diaperless, and I gain at my current pace roughly two hours a month, with only a handful of public accidents to my name.

Furthermore, I am learning to speak, and at the moment my vocabulary stands at roughly 150 words. I am often able to express my feelings in speech, this week having said three times to my father, “Me hungee”, whereupon he fed me — I am discovering that I can use vocalizations to elicit reactions from other people. Turning the pages of the picture books from which my parents read to me has also become a treasured pastime.

The development of my physical faculties is, if I may say so, ahead of schedule. On more than one occasion, I have caught a ball that was thrown to me softly, and I can throw a ball myself several feet. Chairs are by now easy for me to use, although to be frank, tall steps and some doorknobs still give me trouble. Also, my parents discovered with apparent dismay that I’ve developed the ability to help myself to the contents of the pantry. (They stumbled on that discovery last week, when my mother entered our kitchen to find me dancing naked on a pile of powdered sugar.)

You are also wondering, I’m sure, about the development of my social skills. They are above average. I am rarely combative while on play dates, and without being submissive, I am able to deal with ungenerous peers with a simple “No! Mine! Miiiine!” My mother and I are quite close, though, and some have remarked that I am a bit “clingy”. I can assure you that this would not be a problem for me at All Souls; if my mother is allowed to come into the classroom with me on my first day, she will be able to leave not long afterwards, when I am distracted from my crying by a crayon or a picture of a dog.

Finally, my father, a leading economist at the World Bank, sits on the board of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and my dear mother is a philanthropist who busies herself with the sisyphean task of spending her vast inherited wealth.

I look anxiously forward to meeting you at the play date you have been kind enough to organize for All Souls applicants. If I may elucidate anything about my application for you, please do not hesitate to call me at home and speak to my parents. I would have liked very much to speak with you personally, but I will be unable to communicate with more than simple, two-word phrases until I am at least a year older.

Sincerely,
Lillybell Colvin

Sarcasm FTW!!! I stole that genius excerpt from this blog. Anyone else pulling their hair out over school admissions? I'm sure I'm the only nutball out there. This makes potty training a piece of cake *which it isn't* having Liv walk around the house diaper-less is extremely weird and comical.

PS....I'm Freaking Out!

2012-01-25T18:59:00.000-08:00

Good grief, Charlie Brown, this morning Antz and I attended Liv's Pre-school Open House. Antz dropped her at her Grandma's while we went on a tour of the school. My mind is officially blown. This Pre-school is amazing!! The staff, the curriculum, the facility...too much to register. The school's owner is friendly, and down to Earth. The owner and Assistant Director gave us a presentation about how the school works and how much involvement the parents have *tons*. There are so many awesome events like each month they study a new word, an artist and a profession. This month was Empathy, Andy Warhol and Graphic Artist. *LOVE* They have yoga, organic gardening, cooking, music lessons, and Empowerment classes. They even have a date night once a month so parents can have a kids free evening. We peeked into the classrooms and ooh-ed and ahh-ed at the lovely, well-behaved children. It is definitely not your average let your kid play on their own for 5 hours while the teacher talks on their cell phone, daycare. There was close to 50 parents at the Open House so now I'm really worried. The classes are very small so I am in panic mode until they notify the parents on March 30th. The school is also very expensive but completely worth it. Antz and I were already mentally volunteering for projects at the orientation.

I really was under the impression Liv would start school at 3 but she needs to be around other kids, like now. Being an only child can have it's drawbacks with toddlers learning to share with other children. At Liv's dance class she tries to take the other kid's instruments and says MINE! I have a hard time explaining the concept of sharing. She is at an exhausting, constantly pushing boundaries and testing me stage. I have to laugh or I'll cry. For the most part she's wonderful, obviously but she has picked up a nasty tantrum habit. She also somehow learned the power of the word NO! Grrr, I am hoping to get her into their Mommy & Me classes in April. She'll be going to that twice a week, then Scruffin Rock on Fridays and soon she'll start ballet. I am going to acupuncture on Mondays and Thursday is my regular date with Aimee. Our schedule is filling up fast. I also want to re-enroll her in swimming lessons on Saturdays.

So my biggest challenge has begun. Today we officially begin POTTY TRAINING! She must be diaper-free by September. I think it will go well. She likes sitting on her potty but I must remember to not make a big deal out of it. I spazz out over everything but it's best to just act normal so she doesn't seek the attention when she goes potty. I watched this doc, Nursery University, *its on instant Netflix* about the admission process for private Pre-Schools in Manhattan and it freaked me out. I'm going to be a wreck when it's time to enroll her into elementary school. Maybe I should put her on the waiting list this year for 2014??

Holy Moly!!! *bites nails*

My Favorite Things

2012-01-21T16:52:00.000-08:00

This is precisely why I can't save for important stuff! Two sites, Mod Cloth and ASOS, has me in a battle of will power and entering my credit card number. *I blame Facebook for their strategically placed ads* Tell me if you could resist

This shoes...Holy shit. I love them so much. Antz always makes fun of my Steve Madden floral oxfords *he calls them my Granny shoes* so these are a great upgrade for only $62 bucks. I'm dying...must have them!

Montgomery Leather Brogue with colored sole

The pink trim is my favorite!

UPDATE** I just snagged these oxfords on sale for half price!! I'm a little concerned they might hurt my feet since that has been my experience with shoes that are inexpensive. I'll let you know how they feel in a few days.

I am smitten with this bracelet. I would have to get one for Aimee too

Limited Edition Plaited Tassel Charm Friendship Wristband

The best thing about these beauties is they are on sale...they were $259 and now they are $129.99!


Swedish Hasbeens Cherries Shoe-Bilee

These may seem like some average clunky heels but I am 5'10" so wearing heels can look ridiculous *Drag Queenish* on me. I also have a problem with heels hurting my ginormous feet. If I find a shoe brand that makes comfortable heels, I'm a fan for life. Seychelles used to be my go-to brand but I've been reading so many great things about Swedish Hasbeens *on Bleubird* and last Thursday I saw a girl wearing some...I think it's meant to be. See how adorable they look on these girls!

bleubird vintage

I saw this shirt at Anthropologie a few weekends ago and I've obsessed over it since...the color, the shape and the texture...simply divine! Just perfect for spring.

Draped Snail Tank

The back is so cute!

I love it, hopefully it will go on sale *and have my size* cause I can't spend $128 even as cute as it is.

So I am thinking of building my wardrobe for our trip to Paris and when I saw this *paired together*, it screams Parisian!


Good to be Spearmint Top

Musée de Montmartre Skirt

Even the name of the skirt is Parisian. I have been wanting a full swing skirt for ages. I love the length and Super lame these socks are sold out, cause they are rad.

I would wear these shoes with this outfit.

Candy Apple Gloss Flat

They look like shoes I had as a child. Love the candy red gloss worn with some black frame glasses.

This dress is too amazing for words. The cut...the sleeves... the luscious green. No words, just wrap it up please!

Embossed Basket Dress

So sweet, paired with this...

Seychelles Eye of Mars Sandal

Now that I'm thinking of my dream wardrobe, maybe March isn't the wisest time of year to go to Europe. I am really thinking that late April would be better since it's spring and the peak of flower *peony* season.

I adore peonies

I'll have to check airfare in April cause presently it's close to $2900, yikes. I really dislike cold weather and I want to enjoy walking outdoors in the sunshine. We went in June so it was unbearably hot.

This backpack is too sweet and just perfect for my camera. I like to travel as hands free as possible.


Backpack in the Day

Although, I do love this clutch. The color is so adorable and lovely for a nice dinner. I rarely use clutches but I'd like to start again. Asos is so awesome and reasonably priced but the products expire in 30 days so they really know how to pressure you into buying stuff.

$30 freaking dollars! I spend more on a sushi dinner

How adorable is this guy? I would wear it as a bow tie or in my hair. Super cute!!

Spotted Chiffon Bow

This guy is my biggest splurge. I have been coveting the Cambridge Satchel for months now. I first saw it in neon green over at J. Crew. Then I was stoked to find it at a more reasonable price at Mod Cloth but there are so many choices in color. I am trying to get over my immature loud color style so I am leaning towards the stately brown leather. I just looks so polished.

Upwardly Mobile satchel in Brown

Or...?

Upwardly Mobile Satchel in Red

However, the crazy teenager in me is dying for the FABulous neon color. I mean, check out this pink

She makes a strong case. I don't know whether to choose fun over adult. I am so happy it's the perfect size for my laptop who currently needs a home whilst in transport. I was going to get this Kate Spade laptop bag but it went mysteriously missing from the Apple website before I could buy it.

Kate Spade Pocket 13” MacBook

The color is making me drool but it doesn't have a strap and I tend to drop things, often. I already have a pink Incase sleeve for my laptop, I need a larger bag to hold the cords and my extras. I can only find it on the Australia Apple website and it's not going to be cheap to ship :(

I just got some new stuff from Gap but I'm making a few modifications before I unveil them.

So, one thousand dollars later and I'll be all set for Paris!! Happy weekend lovelies.

F(U)AQ's

2012-01-18T16:33:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my Frequently Un-asked Questions...

I spend so much time blabbing about my daily life yet I've never really introduced myself or written about my background. So here ya go...feel free to ask me anything not listed.

Oh, I do miss that necklace *sadly it broke*

I'm a Los Angeles native *I know, there are so few of us* I grew up in the same house my entire childhood.

I am an only child *this you may already know*

My Mom was 29 when she had me, I knew I didn't want kids until I was at least 30...I was 33 when I had Olivia

I am named after my Grandmothers *Elizabeth is my Dad's Mother and Louise is my Mom's Mom* I met my paternal Grandmother once when I was 3 months old and I was super close my other Grandma until her death in 1986.

My Mom is an only child too *that's my entire family tree* just us!

Matching 'Fros

My 1st grade teacher was incredibly impactful in my life with my love of reading. She contacted me last year to see what I have been up to. I still have this book she gave me in 1984!

This amazing book is Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein

I spent a lot of my childhood traveling on tour with my Mom *she's a percussionist*

at a hotel in Chicago *the shawl is Stevie Nick's I wish I still had it*

Me & Stevie. I used to roller skate on her tennis court

Ordering a Shirley Temple in New York

Because my Mom traveled so much, I had a nanny who only spoke Spanish *I was fluent in Spanish for 4 years* Now is can barely say Hello, my name is...

Me in Mexico

I've always had a pet as a child *dogs, cats, rabbits, fish, turtles, mice & birds*

I want to grow my hair thick and long like this again, sigh

My Barbie collection was ridiculous in the eighties *I regret not keeping them*

Due to my Mom being a crazy talented musician, I took many music lessons as a child *today I can't play anything with proficiency*

I love that portrait of my Mommy

I went to Catholic school until 6th grade

Beads were hot in the eighties

I broke my arm tripping on a curb while crossing the street. *I didn't tell my Mom for 3 hours*

Way to ruin summer

I never wanted a sibling *and I'm still grateful I don't*

Apple Valley circa 1984

I dabbled in modeling

I loved these Shirley Temple curls

I never stood still, it was hard to capture me

I went to summer camp every year from ages 9-14 *Girl Scouts, Sailing, acting, trapeze, horseback riding, mountain bike riding. I've been to 7 different camps*

My gazelle sunglasses and Izod shirt were totally awesome

Can you find me?

Chicken pox sucked *but I haven't been gravely ill in my life, thank goodness*

You love my hair, right?

I played volleyball throughout high school and college *now I play on a coed league on Tuesdays with Antz*

I had a serious crush on Corey Haim. I would watch his movies all the time and stalk out his fave places in LA.

I was really sad when he passed away

High School was a dark period for me...In retrospect, I'm happy to have gotten through that angsty time wiser and happier than ever

Although I was totally bitchy teen in high school. I was an overachiever *like Tracy Flick in Election but cooler* I was on student council, in gifted classes, Yearbook, Earth Club, Young Black Scholars program and I took 2 AP classes when I was a senior.

OMG, I took this photo after volleyball practice. I was greasy gross and making the weirdest face ever *umm, wonky eyes*. Please read the following below

I have never tried any drugs *however I am openly admitting, I have smoked Mary Jane 3 times, not for me*

I changed my college major 3 times, finally I went with my heart and got my cosmetology license

I didn't finish college *one day I hope to change this*

I have never been fishing or hunting *and never will*

I've had several jobs throughout my 20's *I was all over the place, my first job was a camp counselor. I worked at JetBlue for the travel benefits and I was a personal assistant to a celebrity interior designer, she-who-must-not-be-named* are just a few

I worked at a children's party place *like Chuck E Cheese* and I wore roller skaters while carrying pizzas and a pitcher of soda, I never fell*

Participating in a mock airplane crash while working at JetBlue was the scariest thing I've ever done *they hired actors with makeup similar to crash victims, it was cray cray*

I have been to a shooting range *I didn't enjoy it at all*

My first car was a 1977 powder blue Mercedes. I got it for my 16th birthday...it was dead by December

I met my husband at Universal Citywalk when I was 19 and he was 20 *I was not looking for a relationship as I was in the process of breaking up with my deadbeat boyfriend at the time*

Our very first solo date *we saw Independence Day in Century City* July 5, 1996

Antz and I worked at the same video store at different times before we met

I have worked 3 jobs and an college internship all at the same time *it was very short lived*

I believe in the power of forgiveness and kissing

After we started dating we ended working at the same mall *He worked at Gymboree and I worked at the Gap*

Our early dating days...

TOO...

Embarassing...

For words!

...but so in love

Our first vacation together was Venice, Italy *I won the trip on the Price is Right Showcase Showdown in 1997*

Still can not believe this happened

We only had $200 between us and went we checked out of the hotel, we had a $300 tab, yikes!...we had to ask his Mom to wire us money

I have owned 5 Volkswagon cars *a Rabbit, 2 Beetles, a Jetta and now my Tiguan*

Snowball III

Snowball IV

We moved into our first apartment in 1999. We lived there for 6 years then we moved into my Mom's apartments to save for our house.

Our apartment was next to a Hare Krishna temple so we would hear singing and prayer every morning at 5 am!


This is the only photo I could find of our old place ironically this is the same day Antz was on Wheel of Fortune

Antz proposed on top of the Empire State building in the gift shop cause it was too cold outside

December 25, 2000

It took me 18 months to plan our wedding *I went to 3 Bridal conventions* I still have my giant wedding planner binder

One month before we got hitched, on the beach we were married at

I got Swarovski crystal hearts vajazzled you know where

My Aunt Eloise flew in from Oklahoma to marry us *in the ceremony she said by the power vested by me and the state of Oklahoma...I always worry we aren't legally married*

His Vows

My Vows

During the procession, Antz flip flop broke

I wore platform flip flops...MAJOR FAUX PAS!!

Our trolley got stuck in the sand, delaying us for an hour *everyone was afraid to tell me until after the driver left*

I can laugh now, but I was frantic

We had 60 guests at our wedding *small weddings are divine, you can spend more intimate time with your guests, the costs are lower and it makes for a saner planning process*

Aimee, my maid of honor's speech was so heartfelt and wonderful, I love her like a sister *although I am happy we are not*

I used to have my tongue pierced *this is the extent of my rebellious phase*

Antz was so happy when I took it out

We couldn't afford a honeymoon so Antz siblings gave us a week at the Palms *the week it opened* in Las Vegas

The Palms is our favorite hotel in Vegas and we've been back 6 times

That hat...ummm? We won $700 playing roulette

We went to London & Paris to see Björk, Our *first class flight on Virgin Atlantic* cost us $57 each roundtrip.

This was on our flight from Paris to London *I love dude one the right's face*

Antz is a brilliant artist *and like all artists, he's ridiculously modest about his talent* He has spent that past 11 years working at his dream job so fortunately I can be a stay-at-home-*and do nothing*-Mom, hate me?

We wrote 13 offers on 12 houses before we got our house. It was the peak of the housing bubble in 2007.

Antz cut his hair the year we bought our house

I am ridiculously superstitious

Our house will be 90 years old in 2013

I believe in ghosts *I've seen one*

It took us longer than expected to get preggers but Olivia is worth the wait

Antz came up with the name Olivia Lily. She isn't named after anyone in particular, we just loved the name *some top contenders were Parker, Harper & Isobel*

I scheduled Olivia's christening the day I found out I was pregnant

I hope to set foot in all 7 continents in my lifetime *I'm not betting on Antartica because I dislike cold weather but I do love polar bears*

I believe in kharma and have been trying to be a kinder, more patient person ever since our daughter was born

I was completely grossed out by breastfeeding while I was preggers but I am currently on month 19 of bfing and I will be sad for the day to come when she's ready to stop

Boob alert!

Therapy & Acupuncture made me a better wife, daughter, mommy and friend *I highly recommend therapy and acupuncture, the needles aren't that bad, to anyone in pain or struggling with issues*

So Zen

My hair fell out 5 months post-partum *as most new Mom's does*. It sucked and I wore a lot of hats but it did grow back. I am still taking prenatal vitamins and Biotin for hair and nails

I am a *not so liberal* Democrat who believes in the power of a woman's right to choose, global warming is man-made, I support capital punishment, in favor of making medical insurance, paid vacation and 401ks mandatory for all employers, while we're at it, let's make a minimum 12 weeks maternity leave, would vote to make animal cruelty a felony in all 50 states, not a fan of our welfare system, 100% totally support gay marriage, would abolish guns if I could, believe the public school system in America is broken, would make every student spend one summer doing mandatory community service and I worked as Supervisor at the polls in 2008 when Obama was elected and will work them again if asked

I'm pointing at my I voted sticker, not my boob

We plan to send Liv to a Private school. You may not agree with me but I would sacrifice all the money we have to ensure Liv has the best education accessible We also plan to travel with her as often as ~~possible~~ *let's keep it real* we can afford. I am no expert in parenting but I have encountered the most eloquent, outgoing, well-mannered and extraordinary children are well-traveled. There's something about experiencing another culture that brings out the best in children. I am hoping we are able to live abroad for a year.

I am actively seeking new followers, more comments *good, bad but not spam, I love reading comments, it gives me such joy to feel like someone can relate to my barrage of complaints and neverending desires* and *~~money~~* sponsors to endorse my Life List. Wouldn't it be great to invest in this girl's trip to see the Taj Mahal while promoting your product *no Postivacs, please* along the way? If you are a long time follower, thanks so much for your support and taking time from your busy life to check on me. Hiya to all my new readers who may randomly stumble upon this blog while google searchin'. This has been one wild ride and I am ready to hit the gas and run full steam ahead into tha future

Owl Tell ya something

2012-01-16T22:44:00.000-08:00

I am super, majorly happy happy at the moment. I just went from zero to sixty with this bedroom makeover. I found a lovely rug online, ordered it, purchased the alarm iPhone dock *using my Amazon credit so it only cost me $13.99*, made up my indecisive mind and bought a table lamp. What took me 2 months to plan, we finished in 2 days!!

Say bonjour to Mr. Owl!!

He's dreamy, much sturdier than I thought

I heart this guy so bad!

AND we just put this guy up!!!

It was tedious and pretty nerve racking putting him up perfectly

TAA-DAH!!

His name is Gerald the Elephant, the monkey has no-name

The lighting in here is tres sex-ay now

We had lunch with Les & Stephen today but it was cray cray cold and we ate outside.

Antz didn't like his pop. At first he said it tastes like Christmas tree but then he said it taste like old houseplant

The cookies were yummers

It was a weird day, Antz and I witnessed a car accident *nothing serious* and then we saw a woman get hit by a car *she was absolutely fine* I was pretty sure bad luck was running rampart so by the time we got to West Elm I was certain the lamp would be sold out. Which is was...*sads* they only had black but I sweet talked the manager into selling us the display model which saved us a drive to Santa Monica. Suh-weet!

All I need is the rug and the alarm dock to be delivered and the room will be finished. Hooray for us!

Balloons

2012-01-16T10:16:00.000-08:00

Ever since 6th grade, I've been a balloon aficionado. My best friend gave me 13 balloons for my 13th birthday and then several other of my friends gave me a myriad of mylar balloons. I had so many balloons I had to keep them in the school gym during my classes. My Mom had to pick me up from school in her van to hold the 20+ balloons I so generously received from my friends. It's been awhile since I've been given a balloon as a gift but this is one I would love!

Oh Joy!

Love her tights!!

Geronimo Balloons Valentine's Day from hak lonh on Vimeo.

Geronimo Balloons make me swoon. I become a teenager all over again *without the awkwardness*.

Bedroom Remodel Progress

2012-01-15T15:05:00.000-08:00

Well, this is an overdue post. I had great ambition to give our tiny bedroom a dose of Botox, a new padded bra and some ghastly lip injections.

The Mood Board that started it all

Our dark, uninspired bedroom in December 2011

Since I can't afford a total facelift, I did some strategic Black Friday shopping and picked up this lovely Anthropologie quilt set on sale for under $100 *takes a bow*

Pavo Quilt Set

I would be 100% stoked if I could find one more Pavo Euro Sham. I've called every Anthro store in America and they are completely sold out. I found them on eBay but I'm finding it very difficult paying $99 for a set of two *when I only need one* and I paid $17.99 for the euro sham at the store.

I also couldn't pass up this amazing ottoman. I grabbed it when I saw it was $99 marked down from $198!

Dutch wax ottoman, it's perfect for putting on shoes

We searched high and low for an affordable bedside table to replace the pathetic Ikea plant stand we've been using for the past 5 years. I wanted something with drawers as Liv is prone to stealing our telly remotes and they go missing for days at a time. I also needed to find a small piece as the doorway is right next to our bed and it had to be under 20 inches. My top contender was found at Urban Outfitters which seemed to be the best fit however there were 2 issues. One the price, $179 wasn't working with my small budget and from Aimee's bad luck experience with them shipping furniture, I didn't want to risk paying $25 for shipping only to receive a damaged piece. Then I had a sheer stroke of luck driving to my acupuncture appointment one Monday morning.

I'm normally not a trash grabber but I couldn't resist

We had a weekend of heavy rain so I was sure they were water damaged but I still sent Antz a text and gave him the location. He rushed over and picked the best drawer of the bunch and it sat on our porch for 3 weeks. I was quite skeptical of it being refurbished but I need to stop underestimating my dear husband.

A hot tranny mess


Antz painted it with primer and already it looks awesome

Remember I went to Mia's caramel apple party? When I came home Antz surprised me with my newly painted pink bedside table. He went to home depot and had a piece of wood cut to cover the damaged top and voila!

My new issue of Anthology magazine and a new candle *that smells incredible*

This is one of my fave painting by Antz

So I quit being a nervous Nellie and put the new Anthro bedding on. The table just fits by a hair! Antz took down the prints so I could wash the wall to prep for our new Blik decal. We'll put it up soon but first Antz had to fill the holes from the nails and we need to paint the spots.

Our bright and cheery bedroom January 2012

Dang it, I need another euro sham!!

He painted the old bamboo frames yellow and we added new frames/photos to the wall over my desk.

The circle frame will soon house a silhouette cameo I'm making of Olivia

I love the new painted frames, they really pop against the green

So next I still am waiting to buy this iPhone alarm clock dock, a new table lamp and a rug.

I have waited 3 months for this guy to go on sale, I just may bite the bullet and order it today

Still not sure if this graphic black & white chevron rug will look good with the colorful palette of the room.

The biggest dilemma is choosing the table lamp. I love this guy

Owl Lamp from West Elm

I'm so worried Liv may knock him over. We have this lamp in the living and we have to keep her from it cause she's always trying to take the shade off. This seems like a great lamp but not so great with a grabby toddler. So I found an alternative here

Hippity Hoppity Lamp from Anthropologie

It's surprisingly less than Mr Owl and it's a cute animal *although I admit, it seems juvenile* but I don't think it will give me enough light to read at night. It seems more like a nightlight.

So, the room is just about finished once we put up the wall decal, I make up my mind on a table lamp and a rug and I buy the iPhone alarm clock. Oh! I need to make Liv's silhouette too. I think we've done pretty well so far. Antz asked me why Anthropologie bedding is so expensive but after the pleasant night's sleep we both had, he understands. The new pillows are so soft and even though we abandoned our plan to add a slipcover to the headboard, I'm happy with the bed. I'll just have to wait until we buy our Dream House to get my King.

I also took some photos of Liv's nursery yesterday since it's been awhile.

I bought these elephants from World Market last Thursday on my date with Aimee

My recommends; Goodnight iPad & Go the Fuck to Sleep

I adore this kid!

Happy Happy 3 Day Weekend

2012-01-14T11:28:00.000-08:00

From someone who had no idea this was a holiday weekend. My last 9-5 corporate job *mutually* ended on August 24, 2007. *applause* Therefore, it's always a surprise when I hear Antz has a Monday off. So I'm going to try to drag him to Griffith Park pony rides and Peekaboo Playhouse.

This is precisely why I love having a chalkboard door in my house. I woke up to this...

Engagement Soiree

2012-01-13T21:14:00.000-08:00

Did I mention my friends Jessica & Trevor are getting married!!

Last Friday was their engagement party

Party People!!! If you sing Whoop there it is, I'll punch you!

This little guy came home with us...BUT Antz "accidentally" knocked him over in the car so we lost most of the dirt.

Red lips *my bangs are making me so happy right here*

Parking lot chic

Poor Antz, between me acting like a crackhead over the chicken and Liv's rambunctious behavior, he was spent.

Total Naughty girl face

Happy Happy Bride-to-be

This little girl was not appreciatin' ANY of Liv's jokes *that is some MAJOR side eye she's giving*

Smiley faces *except Liv*

Let me say, Jessica looked STUNNING.

She's going to be a lovely bride

**Trevor looked quite dapper as well. However my Nikon battery died 5 minutes into the party *as it always does* so I only got a few shots with my iPhone.

However the most impressive thing I encountered at their party was a little guy named Chicken Tandoori.

I tried to get a photo of the delish-ness but folks were eyeballing me. I begged Antz to stuff some in his socks for me.

I ate so much tandoori chicken I ~~embarrassed~~ stuffed myself. It was worth all 5 trips to the buffet line among the incredulous glares. Now I must go to the restaurant it was catered from Jasmine in West LA. Has anyone else had a food so good you had to smuggle a plate home in your *good* purse?

Oh, and they announced their wedding date. It's their 10 year anniversary date, how sweet!

It's gonna be in Santa Barbara like I thought, *awesome* Then we stopped by Aimee's job for a late night howdy to the BFF! V-town on a Friday night is CRAY-CRAY!

Happy Happy Friday the 13th!!

Farmer's Market 90210

2012-01-11T22:12:00.000-08:00

This Sunday we kidnapped Antz Mom and went to the Beverly Hills farmers market. We've been to this one before but this time they had a new feature...

Petting Zoo!!

Aww man, this pony looks like he's thinking FML!!


Liv was rocking out to this sitar player

I tried to catch her dancing but she moves too fast

This is my Hurry up with my crepe pose.

What's that over there?

The magic that is crepes. I had a strawberry, banana & Nutella crepe.

CREPEtastic!!

Fresh Apple Pomegranate juice is my new fave

Antz had a carne/sausage sandwich. He reassured me it was tasty. The man loves his meat!

How about some kettle corn?

Wanna know what's NOT awesome? Nutella boob stain! She did it.

Got my loot, bye!

Next we stopped by my favoritest place in the world. I had a gift card from the BFF so I finally bought my Orimono Pillow!!

Anthro Beverly Hills is FUCKING STELLAR!!

Hi, I live here now.

I need to own this top. Looking out for it to go on sale

You look FABulous, darling!

Yeah, He's the BAWSE in this chair

Another B for our collection

Total Lizzie dress

My Mom will die when she sees this

Paltry sale section

So this is my inspiration for my desk in the bedroom.

CU-RAZY lady!

Antz is under the impression I can sew a blanket like this...we shall see

Memorized by this book


Believe it or not, Antz got this jump on the first try. He's either getting better or my hang time has improved.

Just a bit of a frolic

This place is so much fun

WOWEE!!! Mind Blown

I almost died when I saw this piece by Yoshitomo Nara. I wannit SUPER BAD!!

J'adore Pantone

Me and this guy are pals

World's largest ottoman

Nothing weird going on here

I love my Mommy-in-law!

Okay, I've been uploading photos all day and I've got to get up early to take Antz to the airport. Nighty Night.

Oh, the Places We'll Go!

2012-01-09T16:59:00.000-08:00

Every time I read this book to Olivia *in short intervals as she doesn't sit still these days* I get inspired to travel. Back in our old days of youth, Antz and I would spontaneously book a trip and I wouldn't care about itineraries or putting together a tight budget. We'd charge it or eat ramen noodles for a month *we went to Venice, Italy with $200* in the name of travel and adventure. Now-a-days with upcoming preschool tuition, kitchen remodeling plans and trying to break free from the plastic chains, it's much more complicated to plan a trip. We just spent 2 days *disappointingly in town* but it was nice to ring in the New Year at the W *and cross it off my List*. So now I am thinking of what travel deals can I snag for the rest of the year? I'm considering San Francisco or Palm Springs for Liv's birthday but it sucks that I rarely find airline or hotel deals for that weekend since it's the first weekend of June *which is the peak season for travel destinations* Then I'm ~~crazy~~ dreaming of spending our 10 year anniversary in Hawaii in August. I'm also thinking of how lovely it would be to visit our niece and nephew, Evelyn & Dion, while they are in Paraguay with the Peace Corps. The flight lands in Peru so we could meet up and go to Manchu Picchu *how amazing!* However, how likely is this with a soon to be 2 year old? My biggest issue with traveling to Paraguay is how long would I survive without Target or Jamba Juice? On top of all these crazy travel wishlists, I would LOVE to see Björk live and she has confirmed 5 shows this year in Spain, Portugal, Poland & Russia.

Biophila album cover

I saw an incredible Travel channel show about Lisbon so now I'm dying to go to Portugal and Spain.

So quaint and off the beaten track

If we lived in New York our flights would be 30% less. Another roadblock I encounter is, I'm very preferential to certain airlines. Virgin Atlantic, JetBlue are my top choices. I have flown the full spectrum from the cheapest *and ghetto* Air Trans flight to New York *they lost my luggage and we had a 4 hour delay in Chicago cause something broke on the plane, NOT GOOD!* Then I was fortunate enough to get bumped up on Virgin Atlantic into first class. After flying in coach for so many years, it's hard to consider going back. Antz has flown the most luxurious business class on Singapore Air *3 times*

His first flight to Singapore, this is the only time in our 15 year history I've seen him beardless

So I'm constantly at odds with traveling Luxe *less often* or on a budget and go more places.

Here's my 2012 wishlist:

March 20th *for my 35th birthday*

W Austin

June 2nd *for Liv's 2nd*

San Francisco or Palm Springs

June 9th *Björk show*

Porto, Portugal. Primavera Sound Porto

*Bonus: Beach House, Wilco & the XX*

It looks like Venice

August 18th *our 10 year wedding anniversary*

Hawaii

December 25th *Christmas vacay*

Montreal ...in 36 hours

That's not asking too much, right? I'll be happy if we make it to just two of these locations.

Whadya wanna know?

2012-01-07T17:36:00.000-08:00

I feel like I created this blog as my outlet to share my highs and my lows *not to mention my endless lists of wants*. Well, now 3 years later, I feel like my posts are getting to be pretty random *stale?*. I would like this blog to evolve and by no means, am I a professional in any one field *except hair and makeup* which ironically is the topic I discuss the least here. I'd like to get some feedback from you lovelies on which topics you would be interested in hearing more *or less* about this year.

Home Design/DIY Projects

Real Estate/My quest to buy our Dream House

Cooking*or my lack of*/Baking/Food

Crafting/Sewing

Music/Mix Tape Fridays *I have no idea if anyone even likes my weird taste in music*

Celebrity Gossip *I could go on forever*

Travel/Let's keep it real, my dreams of travel

My Favorite Things/Shopping *clothes, accessories, products*

Kiddies *all the lovely things in the world of a precocious 19 month old*

Life/Everyday Stuff

Leave it the way it is

I vote for....MORE COWBELL!

Things that are AWESOME

2012-01-06T14:19:00.000-08:00

Scruffin Rock dance class!!!

Always the center of attention

Today was Liv's first class. She saw a lot of kids from her World Citizen Class. It went well except Liv has been going through a possessive phase and she tried to yank instruments from the other kids while telling them very firmly "MINE!". Oy, I have no idea how to put the kebosh on that but me no likey. Antz thinks the more she attends the class the better behaved she'll become. She's pretty much the wild child of the class. I need her to mellow out cause in March she starts ballet *I'm so freaking stoked!!!* It's funny how quickly she has readjusted back into her weekly dance routine. She has been napping for the past 2 hours!

Tonight we are attending the engagement dinner for my friends Jessica & Trevor.

This is surreal for me because they have been together for like 10 billion years and now they are getting married seems weird cause I think of them as an old married couple. I've been hearing of different locations for their venue; Lake Tahoe, Santa Barbara so I am looking forward to another mini vacay. Knowing them it will be an incredible location in a nature setting. I'm going to have to step up my wedding gift game! I adore weddings!!

It's time

2012-01-04T20:57:00.000-08:00

for me to invest in a crock pot!

Would I be nuts to get a HK crock?

Looks so yummy

The only mac & cheese I've ever made came from a box and took me less than 10 minutes. What do I expect from cheese powder?

Who would have thunk meat & potatoes could look so tantalizing?

I am not at all a fan of cooking *I do enjoy baking with my lovely Kitchenaid mixer* but I am rarely successful at preparing a meal that doesn't get a side eye from Antz. Let's just say I make a mean bowl of cereal and that's all I have in my repertoire. So when I'm up late pinteresting *verb* and I see all the yummy meals, I am green with envy. Some people have trouble with driving directions and others lack skills building Ikea furniture. My weakness is in the stove. I still have trouble boiling eggs. I do want to prepare delish meals for my family but I need a secret weapon. Aimee's Mom convinced me to buy one on Christmas day. She said she bought her crockpot from a grocery store and BONUS it came with a mini pot for heating up chocolate and cheese!!! I am pretty much sold, cause nothing excites me more about cooking than shopping. Now I'm in the market to find the perfect c-pot.

Any suggestions?

I know you've seen it

2012-01-04T15:54:00.000-08:00

There are several versions of this hilarious video orbiting the blogosphere

Shit Girls Say *Holy Shit, this is funny*

So true, it's scary! I begged Antz to watch it but he was positive it would be stupid, halfway through watching it he was like "Man, that is sooo you!" *particularly constantly complaining it's cold and asking him 50 times what's wrong with my computer?*

Then the spin-off happened as we knew it would.

Shit Guys Say *luckily Antz doesn't say this shit with expection to Okay, I'll go!*

Shit Black Girls Say *again, spot on*

Shit Gay Guys Say *I snorted when they mentioned my fave, Parker Posey!!*

Today the BFF, Aimee, discovered the crème de la crème of this series. Presenting...

Shit White Girls Say to Black Girls *word*

Personally, none of these has been said to me or Aimee but she has been told that she can't tan since she's Black and she must be "Mulatto" cause she has nice hair. Her family is from Louisiana but that has nothing to do with her 'do!

My weirdest encounter was while on vacay in Italy, this chick ran up to me and asked if she could touch my braids. Umm, sure, go ahead. Then she seriously asked me if it was made of yarn. Uhhh?!

Lizzie in Piazza San Marco being invaded by pigeons

*Might I add, I braided my hair myself and it took me 3 days to finish, I was braiding while waiting in the airport terminal*

Now-a-days, the secrets of Black girl's hair has been revealed just like magician secrets *blame that loser Criss Angel* Let's face it, every celebrity is rocking a weave. I have worn hair extensions *aka the weave* Please don't ask me if my hair grew *12 inches overnight* if you see this!

Rapunzzie

Also braids and I spend 3 - 4 hours every 3 months chemically ~~torturing~~ straightening my hair with a Brazilian treatment. Thank the Heavens Liv has naturally curly hair like her Dad so she won't have to endure daily blow drying and flat ironing. Oh! and I can actually tan,

Getting dark in Las Vegas

and have to wear daily sunscreen. I have gotten sunburned before! So Lovelies, what misconception have you encountered in your life? I'm not so much plagued with stereotypes but more often mistaken for a Teen Mom cause I look 18 when in reality I'm an old lady that takes iron vitamins.

It's Janvier

2012-01-03T17:19:00.000-08:00

You know what that means? I have only 6 months to plan Liv's 2nd birthday. Plenty of time for the average person but I have so many decisions to make and things to do. San Francisco *which is 'spensive* or the Ace in Palm Springs?

Poolside at the Ace in June sounds dreamy

maybe stay in town and throw a party? I may be leaning towards SanFran. We would stay at the W *of course* go to the SF Zoo and take pictures at the Golden Gate Bridge *I have been there like 6 times and never done this* and Liv could take her first plan ride. I am not into throwing her a party this year since most of the attendees would be adults and that's no fun for her. I'd rather wait until her 3rd when she is old enough to join in birthday party activities and she can invite her pre-school friends. My biggest challenge is her birthday gift. I am really wanting to make her play kitchen ourselves. Antz isn't so excited about the project *he does most of the labor, while I am the designer* This guy looks amazing and I could sew pretty curtains and customized it for Olivia.

I saw the kitchen for Clara made by John & Sherry at Young House Love and started getting second thoughts. The price was right *they always do incredible things for no money at all* but Antz doesn't have as many tools as they do and we would most likely end of spending as much as a pre-made one if I am involved. This dream kitchen set is from Pottery Barn kids

but even I won't spend $700 for a toy! Plus we have no space to store this massive set. We still have to buy the play food, cooking accessories and the Melissa & Doug playsets. This makes me want a separate playroom for Liv *which makes me want our Dream House even more!* Well, Antz is so great at turning trash to treasure, I have faith he can find an entertainment shelf on craigslist for cheap and I can design a rad Parisian country kitchen for Liv. I'm sure I'll change my mind about 20 times but it sounds like a fun project. I also want to make Liv's playhouse

Miss Pretty Pretty via Etsy

I'm going to be a busy bee this year!

Home Sweet Home

2012-01-02T23:16:00.000-08:00

It is so true, absence makes the heart grow fonder. I was looking forward to coming home today. I love hotels but I had too many issues with the W Westwood. The place was lovely but something was missing. In San Diego they have this amazing beach bar area and adorable window seats. The W San Jose had a bathroom to die for *I took like 6 baths in 2 days* but this one didn't have anything special besides the ice skating rink and these gorge purple orchids.

I want this for our bathroom

We took Liv on a walk around the grounds and every path lead to nowhere. We ended up in the employee smoking area. We felt confined to our room.

Usually, I am blown away by the W lobby but this one was tiny, dark and didn't offer as much community space as others.

Why did it take me 2 days to figure out this Christmas tree spells out T-R-E-E!!

Sorry, they just didn't do it for me. I can understand the sucky service during a busy holiday season but our room had the lovely view of a parking lot. An hour into our stay a light went out in our room. When I turned on the shower the showerhead fell off *Antz fixed it for me* and we requested housekeeping at 10am and they didn't show up until 3:30. I also learned some travel essentials from this staycation. Our biggest error was forgetting to bring enough wet wipes for Liv. We had some in her diaper bag but I should have packed an unopened box. I also overpacked which I usually do so I have a variety of choices. I am learning from my years of travel, less is fine. I had ample shoes *4 pair for 2 days* and plenty of wardrobe options but what I needed was more lounge wear. We spent most of our time in our jammies and 10 minutes after wearing mine Liv planted a big boob stain from her raspberry snack on my tee shirt. I only packed one so I was stuck feeling yucky. This kinda was a dress rehearsal for our big Paris trip. I am putting together my Dos & Don'ts

Finally was able to put the Missoni luggage to use

DO pack in layers, I brought light weight skirts, blouses and dresses and if it was chilly outside I could add a sweater, scarf and leggings.

DON'T *Never* forget your toothpaste. I do not understand how hotels equip you with all your toiletry needs except toothpaste. I had a tiny travel-size one but for 2 of us to share, we needed more.

DO bring back up batteries. I remembered all my adapters and chargers but forgot the extra battery pack for the Canon. We took these photos with it but the battery died before I could upload them.

Liv's new big girl car seat

DON'T get a room with doors that lock from the inside only, we almost had a scare with Liv in the loo!

DO jump on the bed, this is a ritual I always partake in!

DON'T forget to get change. Geez, this was tricky. We had cash for tips but only $20s. Everytime we had a bellhop, valet or room service I had to find someone to get change and they only give out $5 bills *of course so you don't look like a cheapskate* so we were hanging out tips like the Rockefeller's. I should have gotten singles from the bank.

DO pack gym clothes. I never plan to workout on vacay *defeats the purpose to me* yet late New Years day I felt compelled to stop by the gym to see how many folks we're sticking to their resolutions when I found it empty. I spontaneously hopped on the elliptical for a half an hour but I was wearing my PJs and Ugg boots.

DON'T forget the things you say you won't the night before. This one really applies to me. I tried to make a mental inventory of things we would need; toothpaste!, socks, plastic bags for Liv's diapers *OMG Liv's diapers-- we made the mistake of putting them in the bathroom wastebasket and FUCK did I feel so bad for the housekeeper who got our room. This is why I was peeved they took all day to clean our room cause the smell was heinous* My biggest don't forget item was our chalkboard signs. Every trip we use them and guess who left them? *this girl* I realized it when I discovered there was no chalkboard in our room so I was bummed we couldn't use our own, Boo! Suck it up and make a checklist, there's always something you'll forget.

DO invest in shoe bags. How have I not used these before? Nothing sucks more than packing for a trip and having my dirty shoe bottoms touching my clean clothes. I love these guys, I fit 1 pair of shoes in each bag *but could have easily fit 2 per bag* and even had enough to put Livs shoes in one. No more messy, unorganized packing for me.

DON'T bring full size beauty products. I tried to keep my luggage down to 2 bags but with my purse, Liv's diaper bag and 2 bags of Liv's toys, snacks and drinks, it looked like I was moving out. I used my tote bag for my electronics but since I was sharing my suitcase with Liv, I had to put my flatiron, hair products, toiletries and my giant Marc Jacobs perfume in the tote too. This was not wise for 2 reasons; if anything spilled my camera, ipad or laptop I would be screwed. Then it made the tote weigh 50 pounds. I bought my Mac Air so I could travel lighter but with all my products, I was fighting a losing battle. My biggest problem is I'm a product whore, I am obsessed with this Neutrogena body oil and this is the smallest size it comes in so I will have to buy smaller travel containers and condense. Sucks

My Loot! It takes a small arsenal to look this good, nyuk, nyuk.

DO bring your own fruit, water and nuts. I finally scored one for the team here. At first I thought I was going the ghetto route but then I thought about it, the one thing I often regret from travelling is spending $9 for a $2 bottle of water. You with me now? I packed a 6 pack of water, bottle of juice for Liv, apples, cashews, oatmeal raisin cookies, champagne and grapes. This saved us about $60 in minibar charges. My only question is, will I be able to pack all this to Paris and it not get damaged in the cargo pit? I know you may be thinking they have water in Europe, Liz! but I am very particular about my water. Last time we went I didn't drink a drop if it wasn't Aquafina which isn't readily available. I hope there is a fridge in the room at the W Paris.

So there you have it. I'm sure I will find more tips to add to this list but the most important thing I learned from travelling is this. Are you listening?

NEVER, EVER settle for a hotel with less than 4 stars!!! I am not saying this because I'm a snob *which I totally am* but hear me out... Antz, Aimee and I went to London and Paris to see Bjork and let's just say we were on a major budget. We booked the cheapest room we could share with a travel agent and guess what Antz & I brought home with us?

SCABIES!

If you haven't heard of this gross, icky, disgusting disease, it's like bed bugs but worse. I'll spare you the nasty details *if you have a strong stomach you can read about it here*. The health code in Europe is far much more lenient than the US and I should have trusted my gut when I saw the bedspread and the *ahem* towels. So I learned the hard way and I am never staying in a roach motel again. If a hotel doesn't have 4 star rating...RUN, Don't look back...you will thank me later!!

When we got home I played with Liv while Antz put Christmas away. It's good to be home even though we didn't work on our bedroom due to Antz horrible migraine *which is subsiding thanks to the prescription meds and massage* I am still waiting for my list to go on sale but so far, regular price.

Am I the only person who is hesitant to use new lovely bedding cause I'm scared of wrecking it?

PS Some of the least suspecting folks can be jerks!

New Years 1982?

2012-01-01T12:39:00.000-08:00

This morning we we watching the Rose Parade but not really paying much attention. Then Antz was like why is that woman's car so old school. We were joking about how she was driving her own car and it was weird they would feature such a crappy car in the parade. Then we went downstairs for breakfast. What a disaster. Okay, I get it, the morning after New Year's Eve keep your expectations low but this restaurant was a mess. There was no host so after standing around we seated ourselves. Then we had to search for menus. There was a self serve bar with coffee, yogurt and pastries so we grabbed some fruit for Liv to keep her at bay. Then I noticed everyone had orange juice but the self serve pitcher was empty. Finally I saw the poor waiter who wished he'd called in sick was working alone and doing about 4 people's job. I took pity on him and asked him for OJ when he had a chance. Then out of nowhere 3 other guys *whom looked like busboys* appeared and started taking other people *who came in long after us* orders. Ummm, no! Olivia is practically screaming at this point and my patience is wearing thin. I had to hunt down a waiter twice and finally we got our order in after 33 minutes. By the then we had our OJ and Liv was ready to go and made it known to everyone in there. Antz took her out for a walk *where he met the cutest little boy with his parents who was having a similar meltdown* The waiter brought us our food just under an hour and I had to ask him to bring it to our room cause Liv was not dining in the restaurant. Of course he says he will have to charge us a room service fee but whatever, my New Year's french toast was ice cold by then and we waited another 15 minutes for them to bring the food upstairs. It wasn't awful but it wasn't delish either.

The restaurant that noone works at

J'adore French petit jam

Yikes, it's becoming increasingly more difficult to take her to restaurants. I used to be one of those folks rolling my eyes and judging the poor parents of a boisterous child. Fine, I get it now. I don't want to stop taking her out but any suggestions would help. She wasn't hungry *I nursed her earlier* and she wasn't cranky, just bored with sitting still and waiting.

Unsuccessfully distracting Liv

Poor hungry babies

Meh, would be tastier if it was served hot

By the time we made it back to the room I finally looked on the facebook and saw that the Rose Parade traditionally never takes place on a Sunday so the parade we were watching was from 1982. Duh, that explains the crappy old car and the cu-razy bouffant hair we saw earlier. So now Liv is watching her daily dose of YGG and I'm loading photos on my camera *who I am pretty sure hates me* and Antz is taking a nap before his Bliss massage, which I am praying relieves his migraine. We are going to veg out most of today and I've got a stack full of magazines that need to be read. Hopefully we can provide some entertainment for Liv since this has been her fave thing to do since we got here.

More bubbly please

They don't have DVR here so I am forced to watch commercials. If I hear Janet Jackson's creepy whisper voice from that Nutri-system shit, I'm gonna scream. Also, I hate when a spokeperson for a weight loss company only is showed from the waist up...hello, you're supposed the be the image of a knock out body and I can only see your neck, bad marketing technique!! I am soooo tempted!!

Sorry for the bitchy rant, overall I love this place, just had a bumpy start this morning. I am looking forward to my Bliss Foot Patrol pedicure *I love that they address Franken-feet which is exactly what I'm bringing!!* later this afternoon.

Taa Tah!

**UPDATE**

Just returned from my pedicure. Umm, I am about to sound a little bitchy *so what else is new?* but my pedicure was no bueno. I have been an avid Bliss fan ever since our first stay in San Jose when we went to see Björk in 2007 *best show ever!* so I had high expectations from my first visit to the famous Bliss Spa *at the steep rates they charge you should receive a small bar of gold with every treatment* The facility was a bit lackluster and they were playing Justin Timberlake circa 2007. I was like Really?! when I saw the chairs they had for the pedicure station. They were not intended for the woman of the giant persuasion like myself. So I am trying to fit my legs in the 10 inch space between the tiny chair and the foot tub when I see my pedicurist. She was cute *like in a hot nanny for a celebrity couple trouble* but I knew she was not bringing her Foot game today. I mean, Bliss advertised they can tame Franken-feet and I took that as a challenge. So she has on gloves, that's fine, I'm used to it from my regular spot *Gloss in Silverlake, love you* and if I was in her shoes I wouldn't want to touch some one's gross feet either. However, she was touching me like I had the Ebola virus. I mean soft and lethargic. I don't know if she was hungover or grossed out by my Andre the Giant feet. Not good. I am so used to my regular lady who is in her late 50s, and has hands comparable to the Hulk, beats the fuck out of my feet and legs in a totally good way and can scrub my thick wall of impenetrable callus. This chick massaged me like a feather. I was so excited to have a relaxing massage but the entire time I was hoping for it to end. My feet and legs were whispering to me what is this broad doing to us? I did like the hot salt scrub so I bought some to use after a shower. I chose this lovey teal for the polish and I like the overall result but I know she didn't do a thing for my callus heels.

Pre-pedi tootsies...Saltwater sandals rule

Chair from hell!

Hot salt scrub-a-dub!

Poor little thing, I bet her arm is gonna need ice tonight

My enormous feet

OPI, too bad I forgot the name of the color

Where'd you get that FABulous vintage turquoise bracelet you ask? Why the Bando Yard sale of course!

I wish my massage was Más Fuerte!!

I hate to admit the W is starting to disappoint. I'm going to chalk it up to being major holiday so the service is going to suffer. Speaking of chalk...this is our 4th stay at a W and I cannot believe they don't have chalkboards in the room. I was so ready to make a Happy New Year sign, Boo! I hope our next stay exceeds our expectations. I didn't even tell you about my shower mishap...

The shower scene with Desi Arnaz is akin to what happened to me.

So tomorrow is check out. I can't believe how time accelerates when you're on vacation. Antz goes back to work and Liv starts her new Scruffin Rock dance class on Friday. Did you lovelies have any ~~mis~~adventures for the New Year?

2011: A Look back

2012-01-01T01:13:00.000-08:00

I kinda rushed through my resolutions post so I'm going to reflect on all the things we experienced, ate, made, loved *I love everything don't I?* and trips we took this year. For me feeling like ~~complaining~~ we didn't travel that much, we did get out of the house pretty much every weekend. We did quite a bunch of fun things!

We started out the year with our Incredible Disneyland Photo shoot with the talented Sarah

Antz went to San Francisco for his company party *his job is super awesome*

Olivia became a music aficionado at her World Citizen Dance Class.

I got a Hello Kitty sewing machine for my birthday and learned how to sew. So happy I crossed this off my Life List

I made these Badass Mofos


Made Liv a Pillowcase dress

We remodeled our bathroom *and I embraced my inner Design Star*

Our biggest DIY project so far

I laid the floor tile myself

Antz installed the new *taller* toilet and sink

We took Liv and Antz nephew, Justin, to the Kid's Choice Awards. We didn't get slimed!

We went Banksy hunting

We attended the Renegade Craft fair which as THE SHIT!! I couldn't contain my geekyness and Liv showed off her wings...

which launched our Etsy shop business boom.

Personalized Glitter Banners

Our Best Seller Chalkboard signs

Personalized Cartoon Print

Scalloped Wings/Cape

I bought a new car *Love my Snowball IV

Olivia got ready for her closeup with her Headshot Photo shoot with Sarah

Sarah working her magic

I am trying like hell to get Liv signed to a great agency!!

Liv turned ONE!!! We celebrated in style at the W San Diego, the Zoo and SeaWorld!
FUN FUCKING TIMES!!

We saw Florence + the Machine *She is insane live, really great show*

I dragged Antz to a million farmers markets *Our favorite is Northridge*

South Pasadena farmers market

Liv and I attended our first ComicCon in San Diego *Nerd City*

We had a lovely beach day

California

Itsy bitsy, teeny weeny tankini

Aimee moved into her dream apartment and had a kick ass birthday/housewarming party

I had the honor of officiating my friend's 9/10/11 Wedding of the Year

I made these for the Newlyweds *wish I made them for our wedding*

We made this banner for them

My Dell died, Boo!

We went to Taste of LA *and it was extremely delish* I hope we can go next year.

FOOD Glorious FOOD!

I sewed Liv's Halloween *chicken* costume, all-by-myself!

Olivia was featured on Planet Kid Awesome

We had a major windstorm that caused the entire city to black out. We didn't have power for 2 whole days!

We lost some roof shingles

We also lost our Patio umbrella and our hammock

Olivia Lily grew and grew

July

August

September

October

November

December

We put in her new big girl car seat today...she totally outgrew her other car seat. She'll be 19 months on January 2, 2012!!

2011 was pretty awesome!