Surviving Green

Estancia La Jolla

2012-02-10T11:14:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to be one of the several invited to attend Estancia La Jolla's grand re-opening where executive chef Kimberly Kramer served an endless amount of greasy yet delicious bites, the open bar poured wines from Trinitas Cellars and guests floated around grassy patios while listening to local tunes from Israel Maldonado. I was surprised by the sheer volume of participants, gourmet entrees and decor (it was like a perfectly planned wedding, with floral arrangements in pink and waiters offering bubbly and bite-size apps) but it was great to see the hotel & spa shining again.

Simple Sterling

2012-02-09T10:17:00.000-08:00

I have a pretty long list of daily blog reads, as I'm sure most of you do. While most of them consist of fabulously fashion-forward fashionistas based in some of my favorite cities, it's often hard to relate to them off the page - mostly because my daily nine-plus hour desk ritual doesn't call for red soled shoes or bow-tie ASOS skirts (nor does my budget). That's what I find most appealing about Taylor of Sterling Style (and Glitter Guide). She keeps things more real for the average reader than other favorites of mine, offering tips I can actually employ in my average, working-girl kind of life.

{all images via Taylor}

Sunset Blvd.

2012-02-08T08:57:00.000-08:00

We were lucky enough to stay at the Andaz West Hollywood a few weekends ago and it was pure heaven. Just far enough away from the stars of Hollywood, the sun was out in Los Angeles and there weren't too many tourists chiming to spot a celebrity for Oscar weekend. Our view looked over Sunset Blvd, and the sights of the city. Aside from the quaint rooftop pool, the unique touches - like local art in the lobby, old school records displayed in the room and a very traditional notepad - all made this place extremely original.

Spinach Crostini

2012-02-07T13:55:00.000-08:00

I devised this simple recipe for an indulgent spinach crostini recipe one night (you know I love to indulge) where I figured there wasn't a thing that could be made in the house. With a few staple ingredients (we always have fresh spinach for salads), I pulled together a surprisingly tasty treat in a matter of minutes. If you're not much of a cook but are looking for a great appetizer to take over to parties, this might be a great option!

INGREDIENTS

2 cups fresh spinach, packed

1 cup cream cheese

½ blue cheese crumbles (or whichever cheese you prefer)

¼ cup pine nuts

1 clove garlic

olive oil

salt and pepper to taste

fresh baguette, sliced and toasted

DIRECTIONS

1. Blend spinach, half of the cream cheese, blue cheese, pine nuts and garlic together until it forms into a spread

2. Slowly add final bit of cream cheese and a swig of olive oil, as needed, to get mixture moist

3. Add salt and pepper to taste

4. Spread over toasted slice

5. Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top

Sunshine

2012-01-26T11:18:00.000-08:00

Sunny days should be mandatory. They put everyone in an exceptional better mood and make choosing an outfit exponentially easier. This week I've been arriving to work a bit earlier than normal (okay...just the past two days), which has allowed me to get home before the sun is already asleep. I sipped on iced coffee under the shade of an umbrella and had the energy to cook a gourmet meal; we even got a massage. It was lovely.

Early-Evening in 'Paris'

2012-01-24T09:30:00.000-08:00

I've only been to Paris once, but it stole my heart. The whole place smelled like crepes, but that might have been because we spent a few hours at a small crepe shop right by Notre Dame where we requested an obscene amount of items on our crepes (and then totally confused the chef, who wasn't accustomed to an American girls appetite). I even enjoyed walking around the city alone in the rain with a broken umbrella.

I got a bit nostalgic this week, so suggested throwing a Parisian evening at home - complete with cheese, cucumber water and a simple cassoulet. We finished the evening by watching Owen Wilson in "Midnight in Paris," just in time for the Academy Award nominations.

Winter + Spring

2012-01-19T09:03:00.000-08:00

Joanna's bedroom makeover was totally inspiring - and showcased a great mix of feminine decor that might also appeal to a male uncomfortable with color.

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neon pop

2012-01-16T06:23:00.000-08:00

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{images: 1, 2, 3, 4}

If it wasn't obvious from all my tweets lately, I'm craving something neon. A like the idea of adding a pop of color to a rather drab outfit, especially during winter when most tend to gravitate toward black. Initially I thought I couldn't live without a bright and brilliant satchel for nighttime escapades, but since searching the web I've decided than anything in an eye-popping shade of green, pink, yellow or blue would do.

Mary Meyer Clothing

2012-01-12T06:06:00.000-08:00

I've always been a shoes gal, even when my feet were growing at a rate that had me throwing pairs of shoes out monthly (I distinctly remember a pair of Nine West shoes in a size 7 that were far too fashionable for my 13-year old self, that are still hidden in my parents house somewhere).

While I've never had the budget to satisfy all my tastebuds, I've been known to purchase a few via Refinery29. So when the site had a few flat suggestions that led me to Mary Meyer Clothing, it was an obvious hit - everything is so dark and dreary, yet detailed and unique. It reminds me a little of Mary Kate & Ashley (my longtime fashion idols) during their real grudge days, although I don't think Mary Kate has ever really polished her downtown look.

LOVE

2012-01-11T10:05:00.000-08:00

love is all you need ;)

shoes + watch

2012-01-10T11:24:00.000-08:00

Anthropologie sweater; Nixon watch; Marc by Marc Jacobs jeans; Zara boots

I'm not really a huge fan of posing for pictures on the site, but I got some inspiration from Glitter Guide's instagram (and namely Taylor) over the holiday to do a few shots of my wardrobe from the bottom down. These new Zara boots have been on my feet every day since I got them in the mail (a pre-Christmas present to myself), as they make me feel a little fancy despite wearing jeans practically every day.

Bits and Pieces

2012-01-06T08:05:00.000-08:00

Bits and pieces from the Carmel trip.

The stairs remind me of steps in Santa Barbara, right on the outskirt of the mall, where we used to meet as teenagers on the weekends. Our parents would drop us off and pick us up hours later after we had shopped and ate our little hearts out.

happiness.

2012-01-05T13:55:00.000-08:00

I had initially considered writing down some of my 2012 resolutions and placing them somewhere I'd see everyday; but I'm not that great with failure. I think I read somewhere that a greater percentage of individuals who make resolutions for the year end up breaking them before the first month. If I failed in that time, it'd break my heart.

Rather, I've decided to get inspired to create anew. I want to figure out what really motivates me - more than writing everyday for a full time job or posting on this blog has ever done; I want to do something that gets me excited everyday and I want to be original. I always thought I could make a difference; I think it's not going to be sitting at a desk daily, watching the sun rise and fall, telling tales that don't get my heart racing.

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Oh, Hello

2012-01-03T11:48:00.000-08:00

If it wasn't obvious by the lack of blog posting these past two weeks, I took a vacation.

I'm not sure if it was needed, as my work has me traipsing throughout the USA searching for the latest travel spots, foodie finds and motor trends, but it was lovely nonetheless.

Santa Barbara is never a bad place to end up to during the holiday season, but we couldn't help but escape bit from the central coast to Northern California's wine country. Carmel is filled with wine bars, art galleries, unique shopping, lots of tourists, excellent restaurants and the beach - not to mention the famous 17 mile drive - and it was an essential escapade.

Happy Friday

2011-12-16T08:27:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday!

I hope your weekend is filled with lots of adventures.

{taken at Santa Barbara's butterfly reserve}

Creative Connection: San Diego

2011-12-15T11:18:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the wonderful world of Twitter, I heard about a great local event called Creative Connection. The national group offers an outlet for creative women in their prospective cities to get together, chat, eat, drink and conceptualize.

A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to be part of San Diego's second ever Creative Connection USA event, hosted at Splash Wine in North Park. I met some amazing women, gathered some business card splendor and hopefully made some lasting creative connections - especially the genius behind LimeLife Photography (thanks to her pictures above!)

Not going to lie, at first I was pretty nervous to attend this type of event alone. But the women were so receptive to new people, especially the group's organizer, and I was ecstatic to learn a little more about interior design, wedding planning and a new food magazine Savor San Diego (totally jealous of this lady's job!)

Baked Potato

2011-12-14T07:33:00.000-08:00

Ever since we got truffle oil from Europe, I've been itching to try one making one of my favorite indulgences - truffle potato fries. I've made fries in the past, but this time I used my mandolin to slice up perfectly thin slices of russet potatoes to create truffle chips. Using a simple Martha Stewart recipe, we were able to enjoy a bit of a restaurant favorite right at home.

Ingredients

Vegetable-oil cooking spray
2 pounds russet potatoes, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices
3 tablespoons olive oil*
Coarse salt
Freshly ground pepper
*I substituted one tablespoon of olive oil for my truffle oil

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Lightly coat 2 rimmed baking sheets with cooking spray; set aside. Put potatoes, oil, 1 tablespoon salt, and the cayenne in a large bowl; season with pepper. Toss to combine.
Arrange potato slices on prepared baking sheets, spacing them 1/4 inch apart. Bake, rotating sheets halfway through, until potatoes are crisp and golden brown, about 30 minutes. Spread out potatoes on parchment paper; let dry 5 minutes. Sprinkle with salt, if desired.

Rainy Day

2011-12-13T10:28:00.000-08:00

Maybe it's the rain, maybe it's the month, maybe it's the work.

Whatever it is, it's just not my day today.

Christmas Cards

2011-12-12T10:00:00.000-08:00

The Glitter Guide is a constant source of inspiration/ jealously on my part, and since I started following them throughout all of their various online platforms I couldn't stop drooling over their Christmas card post from tinyprints.com.

Isn't it just so sweet?

I can't find nearly anything as cute in my personal pictures, but I'm hoping something will pop up before the end of the year.

Christmas Music

2011-12-09T10:30:00.000-08:00

I don't usually listen to Pandora at work, but this week it's been exceptionally frosty for San Diego, so it seemed necessary to turn on some Christmas tunes. I love the bizarre mix that the "All I Want for Christmas" station comes up with - from movie classics to timeless ones, it's finally starting to feel like the holidays.

PS. Check out a picture of my Christmas tree!

Beckman Winery

2011-12-08T07:05:00.000-08:00

While home, we had a few extra hours to see bits beyond Paseo Nuevo - so we headed to the wine country. One of our favorites is Beckmen Vineyards, a small winery and vineyard that gained quite the international attention when President Obama choose it for his inaugural dinner. Far from the glitz like other wineries (ahem, Firestone), Beckmen has but one small outdoor patio that resembles something your friends had in their home growing up, a few simple benches and lots of grassy space. Simplicity at its best.

Easy Salad Dressing

2011-12-07T09:35:00.000-08:00

Over the holiday, my mom snapped together an amazing dressing and it inspired me to come up with one of my own. Here's a simple salad dressing from items you probably already have in your kitchen.

How to: Champagne Salad Dressing

You will need:
2 Tbs Olive Oil
1 tsp champagne vinegar
1 Tbs honey
2 cloves garlic
2 Tbs Red Wine Vinegar

1. Mince the garlic until it is extremely fine.

2. Put all ingredients in a closed container, shake vigorously.

3. Pour over any type of salad {picture above includes romaine, endive, cucumbers, mushrooms, green onions}

4. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy!

Familiar Friends

2011-12-06T06:49:00.000-08:00

the table from above

Crate & Barrel pumpkin

farmer's market flowers

our wine selection

the new tradition - pumpkin soup

Once a year, my mom's special china comes out - her Thanksgiving dinner is one of the best meals I've ever had {I've been to a lot of great restaurants}. Her friends talk about the meal for weeks, some even claiming they look forward to it all year. Not only is the delivery exceptional, so is her table. She starts setting it a day or more early, dusting off her mother's china from a cabinet passed down generations, placing empty platters in the center with notes to remind her of where goes where.

Everywhere Hair

2011-12-05T10:39:00.000-08:00

I usually don't do much with my hair, but after becoming obsessed with Pinterest over the last few weeks, I couldn't help but notice a lot more hairstyle options than ever before. Considering my hair remains flat and lanky, I don't think curls will ever actually hold past the hour, but it's always fun to dream. What's your favorite go-to hairstyle?

{images via pinterest}

Happy Friday

2011-12-02T06:03:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday!

Words from Refinery29 local editor: "I completely believe in the transformative power of a gorgeous room, a witty object or a beautiful garment."

This completes my first week of posting everyday - after getting a few compliments while visiting my parents over Thanksgiving, I figured that it couldn't hurt to really try on the blog. So I picked a few favorites to get inspiration, and this week has been relatively easy in trying to find some great posts {it also doesn't hurt that I haven't been crunched for deadline at work}. Here's to several more weeks of this!

ps. the delicious cupcake posted above is from Corner Cupcakes, a San Diego based food truck that won on the Food Network show "Cupcake Wars"!

Reality Check

2011-12-01T09:43:00.000-08:00

{Cheetah is the new Black}

{Cupcakes and Cashmere}

{Sterling Style}

{The Man Repeller}

So I finally entered into the 21st century with a Smartphone. But not just any Smartphone...the iPhone 4S. Siri is quickly becoming my friend, but after reading some of my daily blogs, I realized that my little white iPhone is naked. Oh my! So I've gathered up a few of my favorites {hint, hint Joshua} to compare and decide before my new toy makes her debut - and complete my iPhone outfit.

Dwell Studio

2011-11-30T07:35:00.000-08:00

Josh surprised me the other night with a new subscription to Dwell Studio {yes, I am a design dork}, and the 2011 Holiday catalog just arrived. We're looking for a few more accents to complete our home, including throw pillows and a new media center, and Dwell Studio offers some great inspiration. The pillows are exactly what I love, though I'm having trouble convincing the boy of the same, as well as some fun knick-knacks for accessorizing the house. It's perfect for newbies with a little edge.

Have you checked out Dwell Studio?

20x200

2011-11-29T06:16:00.000-08:00

It always amazes me how creative some people are. Whenever I feel a little glum at work, or need a pick-me-up, I head to some of my favorite design or fashion blogs - these days, everyone is adding a little "DIY" into their lives.

Though my recent attempt was a little less fantastic than I had hoped {I took serious inspiration from Coco + Kelly designer Cassandra}, I want to keep on trying. Especially after checking out these inspirational pieces from 20x200, an artistic endeavor that makes putting unique art affordably into your home. If you haven't tried it yet {I've got one, and given one}, it's worth a peak - you can get some pieces for as cheap as $20!

{images: 1, 2, 3}

Like Crazy

2011-11-28T06:03:00.000-08:00

This past weekend while at home, we watched the Sundance Award Winner "Like Crazy." A family friend's nephew wrote the award winning script, which was picked up by Paramount.

Our family wasn't a huge fan of the picture, but I can't stop thinking about how realistic the writing was - it wasn't your typical movie script, but it flowed like your modern-day relationship {a problem for some critics who had trouble staying focused}. It might have been that many of the relationship tidbits and traits reminded me of my own, and that feeling of first love was present in every "I miss you" text message or drunken phone call.

If you like love stories, and like rooting for the underdog, check out the trailer for "Like Crazy."

Bits of Home

2011-11-23T17:29:00.000-08:00

Josh and I are getting ready to head to Santa Barbara for Thanksgiving tomorrow {we're hoping to avoid as much traffic as possible}. This year we'll be bringing back our green bean recipe from last year to the table, complete with fresh and crispy prosciutto, roasted pine nuts and lemon. We have a macaroni & cheese recipe that might come into the weekend later on, but we couldn't steal the spotlight from my mom's famous mashed potatoes and yams.

Happy Thanksgiving!

In a New York Minute

2011-11-22T08:59:00.000-08:00

Shots from our New York trip, which I still can't believe happened more than a month ago. Since the year is starting to wrap up, I thought about everything I got to do this year....Las Vegas, Palm Springs, Chicago, La Paz, New York and probably a few road trips I've forgotten about. I've been wanting to travel more, and instead of waiting around I just booked those tickets, and I'm so glad it worked out {plus, I managed to tackle a lot more than I thought more this wish list}

Santa Barbara Girl

2011-11-21T10:12:00.000-08:00

Though I've been living in San Diego for nearly a decade {gasp!}, I still consider Santa Barbara my home. While the city has changed a lot since I left - there are now more chain stores than I'd like to admit - there are a few simple pleasures I love to enjoy when I return home for the holidays. Until those sporadic dates appear, however, I recently discovered the adorable Samantha from Could I Have That. She helps ease my Santa Barbara nostalgia with her high fashion posts, foodie bits and Santa Barbara landscapes.

Pink Ladies

2011-11-18T07:17:00.000-08:00

A year ago today, a friend and I walked 60 miles in 3 days. We aren't crazy, we were supporting a cause.

The Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure is an amazing event, and I can't believe it's already been a year since we traipsed through the rain, slushing our sixth pair of socks together to make it to the finish line in Petco Park. After all of our hard work {weekend hikes, workouts and shopping for pink} it all went by too quickly. I can still remember the informational session we had at a public library...the moment we decided we were in, my heart couldn't stop pounding. In the end, it was all worth it.

So here's to everyone that is participating in the 2012 San Diego 3 Day, and everyone who has helped the cause - Susan G. Komen is an amazing organization, and I'm so happy to call myself one of the thousands who have walked 60 miles in support of breast cancer research.

Outfit Inspiration

2011-11-17T08:54:00.000-08:00

Since I finally took the plunge and joined one of the {too} many sites out there to foster creativity, it's only natural that I eventually became obsessed. Pinterest is relatively simple and easily passes away evenings or slow work days.

The reason why I started this blog in the first place was due to my addiction to certain fashion bloggers like Cupcakes and Cashmere, The Man Repeller and The Glamourai, daily outfit inspo reads that keep me going. While I'm not posing, at least there's a better idea of what I might be wearing, had I the pocketbook of said bloggers.

{all images via Pinterest}

Cravings

2011-11-16T07:31:00.000-08:00

garlands for the x-mas tree {surprise find at Crate & Barrel}

new glassware {trying to find something appropriate to fit inside,

but all I can come up with is whiskey}

jacket from "new york" {that my mom actually purchased

for me in SF since they were out of my size}

2011-11-11T09:59:00.000-08:00

I finally got involved in Pinterest after seeing some of my favorite bloggers {like Emily}talk about the site for months. I don't have a wedding planned ahead, but I figured this is a great place to keep my ideas for the blog - even though I prefer showcasing my own photos most of the time.

Simple trip to Italy

2011-11-08T07:11:00.000-08:00

He's been back for a few weeks, but since the boy returned from Europe he promised we'd be getting the most amazing truffle oil, Italian olive oil and vinegar, and a special vinegar that goes great on ice cream. Well, it finally arrived a few days ago and the bottles are too pretty I haven't wanted to open them. I'll probably try the ice cream treat first.

Antique

2011-11-04T08:52:00.000-07:00

We purchased a Living Social deal for yoga, so we've been trying to get in as much vinyasa as possible. Needless to say, my body is tired. If it actually starts to rain this weekend as promised, I wouldn't be opposed to watching a few movies at home and pour over pictures from my summer trips. Here's to a wonderful weekend, whatever you end up doing.

Breakfast Over Easy

2011-11-02T04:14:00.000-07:00

Absolutely my favorite meal is breakfast. Especially going out to eat for breakfast. These are a few snapshots from my trip to New York - Dean & Deluca {which took us forever to find}, 44 1/2 in the Meatpacking District and Tartine {thanks to a lovely recommendation from Cup of Jo}. One of the places I've been aching to try is Roscoes in LA, but since President Obama made an impromptu stop there on his recent trip to Cali, I doubt I'll be able to find a time outside of the weekend where it isn't packed.

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T16:56:00.000-07:00

This weekend a friend and I headed north to the Long Beach Antique Market. I didn't find everything I wanted, but I did spot a pretty lovely tray that fits my new ottoman perfectly {despite having finally found a place for my Missoni tray}, and a new nightstand for our guest bedroom {at a steal for just $10!} I'm still trying to convince the boy on that one.

Last night we took apart a pumpkin for a new recipe, and while I mashed it up I toasted up some pumpkin seeds for the ultimate holiday snack. On the table are a few seasonal decor items that I'll need to replace once Thanksgiving is over. Here's hoping that they last longer than my carved friend (he's now made a home in our front porch). Happy Halloween!

Contradictions

2011-10-27T15:42:00.000-07:00

Weekend Bits

2011-10-24T07:40:00.000-07:00

Though I wasn't expecting much this weekend (having just returned from NYC), I managed to sneak in a DIY project {inspiration a la Glitter Guide}, pluck apples in Julian, pick a home for my Missoni tray from Target, search for pumpkins at a patch and explore a haunted trail. Since fall officially rolled in this weekend, noted by an absence of beachgoers, it was the perfect weekend to {finally} welcome San Diego to autumn.

Recap of my NYC trip...

2011-10-21T10:40:00.000-07:00

meaghanclark Meaghan Clark

Standing in front of the Friends apartment!!

17 Oct

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Sweetness in NYC. twitpic.com/71tmvw

17 Oct

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Apparently loafers are in...people watching with a cup of soup (@ Chelsea Market w/ @lesleykolb) 4sq.com/nbJO06

17 Oct

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Oolala (@ Chatwal) 4sq.com/oNQyb2

16 Oct

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Ooo trendy! (@ Buddakan w/ 11 others) 4sq.com/pcDlT7

16 Oct

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Adorable! (@ 44 & X w/ 3 others) 4sq.com/newyHq

16 Oct

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Even Occupy Wall Street protest couldn't stop us from our first show! (@ Stephen Sondheim Theatre w/ 2 others)4sq.com/qN6z9F

15 Oct

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You definitely don't see this kind of production in the movies (@ Empire State Building 86th Floor Observatory) 4sq.com/rsfs7g

15 Oct

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Okay, now this is where I can see myself living. New York, I might be seeing a lot more of you. (@ Tartine) 4sq.com/npFR4s

15 Oct

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Only in New York can you have a Magnolia Cupcake for breakfast and be totally okay with it.

15 Oct

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I'm at Asalina (Park Avenue, New York) 4sq.com/nGYPNv

14 Oct

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Here's hoping for some good ones! (@ Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant w/ @lesleykolb) foursquare.com/meaghanclark/c…

14 Oct

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Too much beauty for one afternoon! (@ Metropolitan Museum of Art w/ 21 others) 4sq.com/oMfE14

14 Oct

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Enjoying our first latte, and donut from the planet! (@ Dean & Deluca) 4sq.com/oFrZoi

14 Oct

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I can't believe I'm here! (@ Hells Kitchen) 4sq.com/qrX1se

13 Oct

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I think I'm going to scream. Sitting in plane for hour+ not moving United Airlines, I hate you.

13 Oct

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First signs I'm on the East Coast? Dunkin' Donuts.

13 Oct

via Twitter.

Thanks to Foursquare, Twitter, Facebook and all other social media means out there, it was pretty obvious how every minute was organized during my NYC trip (aside from the few locations I didn't mention, but those can be found via my friend)

Rich Water

2011-10-13T06:25:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned before, last week I was lucky enough to spend a few days at the five star hotel CostaBaja Resort & Spa in La Paz, Mexico. Since it was unseasonably warm, we spent as much time as we could sitting by the water, though we still managed to squeeze in a tour of Gary Player's Golf Course, get a massage at the Espiritu Spa, take a tour of the city with a friendly historical guide, snorkel in the clear water and eat at nearly every single restaurant on the 500 acre property. It was the perfect escape.

Princess!

2011-10-12T07:24:00.000-07:00

What's that, you say? I'm wearing a cookie? Well yes, and how nice of you to notice.

Apparently it's a tradition of some-sort at Octoberfest (the real Octoberfest, folks) to wear some gingerbread concoction around your neck complete with lederhosen and stein. Okay, you got me...I had already secured the latter items away far from anyone's eye, but the cookie - and it's very satisfying crunch - managed to come all the way back from Munich with my sig-o. Talk about one delicious accessory. If I hadn't already munched on this puppy for breakfast, I totally would be rockin' this thing until the DAY I DIE.

Just, Lovely

2011-10-11T16:37:00.000-07:00

I never had have trouble with feeling the twinge of inspiration, it's just taking the next step that has always been the tricky part. I know what I want, I need to figure out how to get there. I always wonder...what exactly am I doing wrong? Why can't I catch that big break? If the only way to get there is jump, and I know it, can't I just accept that it's just a leap away?

{images: 1 via, 2, 3}

Postcard Worthy

2011-10-07T07:26:00.000-07:00

This past week I headed out to La Paz, Mexico for a story on the resort CostaBaja. I've never seen water so clear, more friendlier people or more deliciously rich food. The city is terribly peaceful and quaint.

Craving: Animal

2011-10-03T10:36:00.000-07:00

{Yves Saint Laurent twill coat, £1,195; Leopard print legging, $40; Steven by Steve Madden flat heel shoes, $120; Alexander mcqueen handbag, £845; Lucky Brand Jeans leopard print scarve, $50; Banana republic, $50}

A few weeks ago, my girlfriend and I went shopping throughout the city to find some necessary wardrobe updates for the season (and trip to NYC). While she didn't have any luck, I think I found something at every location - and I couldn't stop checking out the leopard prints. While I had to limit myself to just a few items with these bold pattern, I couldn't help but think of a few other additions I might add to my closet as the season gets more crisp.

Be Yourself

2011-09-30T10:06:00.000-07:00

I realized recently that the best advice you can ever get is to just listen to what your heart says. I may not be the most positive person all the time, or the most enthusiastic, but at least I know who I am. I know what I want, and I know where I'm headed.

Channeling Venice

2011-09-29T17:08:00.000-07:00

Because my boyfriend is currently on his first ever European excursion, I've been checking Skype much like my days back in Barcelona. Before he headed off we had a proper San Diego-style excursion in a little park we locals like to call Balboa. Sitting adjacent to one of my favorite buildings, we enjoyed a massive semi-homemade meal, the sun and each others company. It was a splendid send-off.

Italian tapa

2011-09-28T07:39:00.000-07:00

What's that, you say? That looks delicious? Well, I'll had to agree. Too bad this is one of the few postings as of late that isn't mine, but from the new Italian inhabitant and Chicago transplant Devanti Enoteca. The tapa style menu probably had us ordering a bit more than our stomachs could handle, but it was worth it. If Chicago wasn't in the middle somewhere (besides that huge lake and everything), I would totally move there - they have the most amazing food. Hopefully some more veterans will get Devanti's idea and come to the beach too (Purple Pig, please?!)

Like a Tree

2011-09-22T08:05:00.001-07:00

I'm clearly channeling my inner Man Repeller here (both facial expression and ensemble organization), but that's kinda what I was going for a la the latest LEAF (Living, Eating and Fashion) video with Because I'm Addicted's Geri Hirsch {now that lady has style}. To my amusement, the roomie - better known as my boyfriend - actually noticed the ensemble, and with the surprising amusement via his compliment, we snapped a few.

{Mango dress, Mango sweater, Target flannel, Anthropologie belt, Nixon watch}

NYC

2011-09-21T10:20:00.000-07:00

White top; Oasis collarless jacket, $205; Ralph Lauren mid heel shoes, €850; Clinch tube scarve, €169

What are you craving for fall? I'm slowing preparing for my trip to NYC, but aside from the hotel and flights (and a few meals), little if anything else is planned - especially for my wardrobe. I'm not all that fond of cold weather, so when we head to the Big Apple this October, I'm desperate that it'll actually be an unseasonable warm rather than the other way around.

Inspiration.

2011-09-20T07:41:00.000-07:00

The six months I spent "studying" in Barcelona are one of my most vivid and memorable of my life. I had been to Europe before, but with friends - the second time around, I was venturing off into an unknown city without even a familiar face to lean on. As luck would have it, I met some of the most amazing people...people who were willing to travel with me to far off places, eat everything in sight, and do a museum tour after a shot of Absinthe.

Green Escape

2011-09-19T10:02:00.000-07:00

We finally put together the blank wall in our kitchen. In about four months time it went from having some color...to paintings and shelves...to finally stuff on those shelves. We picked up the indoor plants at a local nursery during one of our weekend bike rides, on a hot and sunny Sunday that felt like summer - and I'm honestly surprised they lasted through the heat wave we had a few weeks back.

One Letter

2011-09-16T08:05:00.000-07:00

My Chemistry teacher asked us to write a letter to ourselves, to be sent a decade later. I was a junior taking what I'd hoped would be the final science class of my lifetime. I'd had the same group of friends for years, and the same crush for longer. Though the materials in the books didn't stay with me past my first year in college, that letter did - and for years, I thought about what I'd written and what exactly I'd remember.

Ten years later, the letter was only a faint memory. Until my parents reminded me of some boy, some long-lost friends and some big dreams. The friends are still relatively the same, the boy is only a faint memory and the dreams came true. Isn't it funny how things work?

{images from M.Dot design studio & Long Beach Antique Fair}

A Broken Yolk

2011-09-15T07:58:00.000-07:00

This was an early morning splurge a few weekends back, using what was the last of my household's buttermilk. I used a simple buttermilk biscuit recipe, added a few homemade sausage patties, a sprinkling ofgoat's milk, sliver of tomato and salt & pepper for tang.

standstill

2011-09-14T09:02:00.000-07:00

This man sat on the edge between a bustling Chicago cityscape. Isn't it strange that it's become rare to find someone so immersed in their own thoughts that they completely loose sight of useless distractions? Cars honked just feet away, and children haphazardly balanced between ledge and water as their parents mercifully played along.

There aren't many moments where grown, successful businessmen feel comfortable sitting on this kind of edge - between relaxation and population. Instead, we comfort ourselves in knowing that we'll always have a friend in our cell phone...even if no one is on the other end.

basil, pollo and mozza

2011-09-10T06:23:00.000-07:00

This weekend I was all about cooking, and after craving homemade pancakes last week I picked up some buttermilk for those - and finished off the carton with homemade biscuits and fried chicken. This was another craving that was one of the simplest dinners I've made - I just whipped up some chicken while the dough was rising, made some pesto and sliced the mozzarella - it was done in 30!

Goodbye, Summer

2011-09-07T09:52:00.000-07:00

This was without a doubt one of my best summers ever {I even accomplished nearly everything on the list - the jewelry is a work in progress, as is the sewing}. Not only did I experience a few things I've been wanting to try for a while (Comic-Con), but I got to visit someplace new, kicked up my boots at a few concerts and put a dent in my new kitchen. Living with my best friend definitely pushed the summer into high gear, and it wouldn't have been the same without our new space. Though it definitely doesn't feel like summer is over (and won't officially be over for a few weeks), I've seen a few leaves fall and caught the taste of early morning darkness, to realize that it's actually here.

Pesto Surprise

2011-09-06T08:39:00.000-07:00

We had a lot of fun cooking this past week, especially since I managed to buy - for once in my life - enough supplies to last me all five days. It made figuring out what was for dinner extremely easy, as well as lunches for work - adding this fresh pesto into my sandwiches reminded me of the days when I used to savor the brie and pesto sandwiches from my campus deli. I miss college.

Meats that Sparkle

2011-09-01T07:26:00.000-07:00

Last week we had an impromptu dinner date at one of San Diego's hottest new restaurants - Burlap. Though I felt grimy after a full day in the office, the weather allowed a perfect afternoon meal outside, where we tried some local beers and a mixture of Brian Malarky's latest venture. I was a little disappointed that there wasn't much surprise when it came to the new menu (a la carte similar to his Searsucker downtown spot), aside from the location, but some of the hearty side dishes like cowboy ribs were supreme.

A Gulp of Reality

2011-08-31T07:25:00.000-07:00

I'm writing this post at 7am, which means one of two things - I've become terribly lazy or I was a straight-up party animal last night. It was actually neither of the two, but let's just say that two little girls are now sitting pretty on some leftover Chinese food and memories of another bad James Franco movie. Oh, how nice. On that note, I'm reminiscing about my days in Chicago where 8am wake-up calls consisted of fatty three hour breakfasts and bloody Marys. Unless I was that Formula One heiress who just wed some clueless fool for $5- $7 million, those days are gone...and I'm heading back to reality all too soon.

{the top two are from The Purple Pig, where we sat next to Art Smith, and the latter is Marcus Samuelsson's C-View}

One Sweet Craving

2011-08-29T09:39:00.000-07:00

This past week I had a craving - for pancakes. So I concocted the best of both worlds one night after work, putting together a simple crepe recipe and adding a little of my own twist...some berries. The batter was extremely easy to work with, I think the next time I'll just have to work on my patience (some of them were flipped a little too early). Filled with sugar, chocolate or jam, these are a perfect and simple homemade treat.

{I started with this recipe, and added some berries, 1 cup of sugar and replaced milk with buttermilk}

love

2011-08-25T03:48:00.000-07:00

Food + Fashion

2011-08-24T06:41:00.000-07:00

Who knew food could be so fashionable? These fashion-forward ladies were spotted at this weekend's food festival - where horse poop and hay were more prominent than the people. So it was surprising to see some fashionistas in the presence of hot sun, food out of trucks and oodles of fried food everywhere. It was inspiration, none the less!

If you're a foodie...

2011-08-23T06:36:00.000-07:00

...I'm a foodie too. This weekend was jam-packed, and after a run we indulged in several food trucks at this week's Food Truck Festival. We noticed the lines for local trucks were almost as long as out-of-towners, but we took our chances with a few City of Angels based drivers - including White Rabbit and Tapa Boy LA - and it totally paid off.

{top two: Tapa Boy LA; bottom right: Brats Berlin; bottom left: White Rabbit}

oh, hello.

2011-08-18T08:53:00.000-07:00

I realized not too long ago that I had yet to post a picture of my new camera, courtesy of the 'rents. The device is still a little foreign to me, but since I had little time to get myself acclimated to the new shoulder addition I have been extremely grateful for the automatic setting (as had Josh, who takes a few photos for me here and there). I've been experimenting a bit, but I always love the feeling of getting a great shot no matter the situation, lighting, or angle.

Orange Flare

2011-08-16T07:17:00.000-07:00

This was the outfit that I wore on the plane trip to Chicago, where immediately after jumping off the plane into an airport taxi into an hour-long drive through Friday night traffic, we hit up Custom House Tavern. Little did I know when planning the evening that the night crawlers of Lolla would inhabit the area once we were finishing up dinner, but it made for interesting eye candy.

{Anthropologie top, J Brand jeans, Nixon watch, White Apple Threads purse}

Chi-Town

2011-08-15T06:43:00.000-07:00

This week I was lucky enough to visit Chicago for a travel story for the mag. I couldn't believe how gorgeous the city was - everywhere I looked there was green accents, smiling faces and amazing restaurants. Being that I'm a Cooking Channel junkie, I recognized practically every place in the center of the city, and even made us go outside the Miracle Mile to try unique gelato from Black Dog Gelato (via an episode from Unique Sweets). I was more active than I usually am during the week, so our long days really wore me out, but we managed to fit everything in that we wanted. Add the ideal weather, and it was one perfect trip.

BOOM

2011-08-04T08:04:00.000-07:00

I'm not quite sure if these are appealing to the eye, or just plain crazy stupid. But they pretty much summarize the jumble that has been going on in my head these last few weeks. I'm not sure if that is a good thing.

This makes me think of that YouTube video that got passed around before YouTube was actually cool, except that it didn't get passed around to me, I actually was force fed the five minute clip during one of my boyfriend's sessions with Tosh.O. Anyway, besides the point, here goes:

"And BOOM Goes the Dynamite." Enough said.

sparkle + practical

2011-08-03T07:53:00.000-07:00

a fan-tabulous outfit.

Or, if you'd rather, a semi-appropriate work ensemble that also reminds you to add some sparkle in your life while simultaneously breaking in your new Nine West shoes for Chicago.

{beads: Anthropologie; tee: Urban Outfitters; watch: Nixon; bracelet: thrifted; shoes: Nine West}

Rue Magazine

2011-07-27T11:46:00.000-07:00

I don't usually like re-posting images I've found in my daily blog reads, but after spotting this on some of my longtime favorites I couldn't help myself - seriously, these women are amazing. Putting a camel on the beach for a safari shoot? Needless to say I'm beyond impressed. It's making me daydream of the day when I'll be able to plan a photo shoot with exotic animals for my own magazine.

My Boyfriend is on a Diet

2011-07-25T17:16:00.000-07:00

Have you seen it? It's my new experiment. And something that has captured my attention more so than anything else right now. Check it out!

purple and gold

2011-07-22T06:49:00.000-07:00

Dark purple + sparkles.

tailored crisp

2011-07-18T08:32:00.000-07:00

This wasn't the most exciting dinner, but I wanted to spruce my salad up with a little parmesan crisp that I had once seen on some cooking channel show. Probably the easiest to put together, I just threw a handful of shredded parmesan onto a hot skillet and watched as it melted. It wasn't quite the concoction I had initially seen on my plate at restaurants, but it added a nice personality to an otherwise simple meal.

BCN

2011-07-14T07:03:00.000-07:00

This is probably one of my favorites pictures from when I studied abroad in Barcelona {a hot character from the Spanish city}. We've been talking a lot about traveling abroad lately, partly because someone is trying to plan a trip to Europe for the fall and partly because I've been feeling that itch again. Living in a foreign country was by far my most memorable experience in college and I couldn't have asked for a better group of girls (and boys, though they were few and far between).

soup for you

2011-07-13T07:31:00.000-07:00

This weekend was relatively low-key, and usually when I feel unproductive and we have the ingredients (or the energy to walk over to the grocery store), I want to bake. With the unseasonably warm weather, I opted for a fruit dessert that would curb all my sugary cravings. Since I was already familiar with the handy Martha Stewart dough recipe, this was relatively simple, though the warm weather probably made the sugary fruit mixture a bit more runny than anticipated. Still, it was delicious!

bits of the weekend

2011-07-12T06:17:00.000-07:00

Showing off my new bowls from Anthropologie {a lovely birthday present}, a fancy new bracelet as seen in my work photo shoot, my new TOMS {another birthday present} and a homemade gift certificate {my favorite kind}. Doesn't that bowl of cherries just scream summer? My frig is chock full of fun fruits that we only get good around this time of year: strawberries, cherries, blackberries, nectarines and plums. They have become a staple in my diet. And the boy's too - at least, during dessert time.

pucker up

2011-07-08T10:48:00.000-07:00

Summer is officially here, and I'm not just saying that because my birthday weekend finally kick-started the sun. Activities like fashion festivals, comics, birthday celebrations, farmer's market dates, horse races, hot dogs and heat. are all part of it This summer is definitely making up for the last with this weather, but since I've been finally sleeping at night I can't complain...thankfully we have windows in our office to sneak a peak at the gorgeous weather...that, and an ocean view.

one quarter

2011-07-06T10:14:00.000-07:00

I was born strong, breaking bones along the way. I loved to fill the lines of elementary school paper with bits of reality and lots of imagination. And at the same time every year, starry lights fill the sky and celebrate the anniversary of my birth. So far, from what I have been told, there have been 25 nights of light.

the muggle

2011-07-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

half-time

2011-06-30T07:29:00.000-07:00

Another experiment with Tim Ferris' healthy cookbook 4 Hour Body. Hardly a favorite, and probably one of the more difficult meals we've made since removing carbs from our diet, but it was still delicious. Fresh vegetables and a little bit of cinnamon gave this meal a quite and easy Mediterranean kick.

water diving

2011-06-29T09:18:00.000-07:00

Colors with a yellow hue. Whatever that means. A little bit of sunshine is really all anyone needs to pick up their day. Snap a photo. Smile. Breathe in the fresh air. It makes a big difference in a day filled with stuffy shoulders and stuffy heads.

a list

2011-06-23T09:33:00.000-07:00

Things to try this summer:

1. Attend a showing at the local drive-in theater

2. Make my own jewelry {inspired from Anthropologie above}

3. Travel...a ton

4. Finish up the house (new sofa, coffee table and kitchen painting

5. Run a race

6. Learn to sew on my machine

7. See a new band in concert

dippin dots

2011-06-21T08:32:00.000-07:00

Just a few snapshots of the new place. All taken at night because I don't have the time or energy to do it before I go to work at 7am, and it's not on my mind during the weekend. Such is life - what can I say.

flower child

2011-06-16T11:43:00.000-07:00

It look me a long time to accept skinny jeans (aka a move to Europe and month-long lost baggage forced me to accept skinny jeans), but I'm a little more excited about the latest jeans development. Rachel Zoe has obviously been a purveyor of the wide leg pant for years, but after spotting a sexy pair of them on Kelly Framel a la my daily read The Glamouri, I thought seriously about buying some myself (there was a Groupon at our local boutique Mog & Rue, who's got J Brand bells). The only concern is that I'm not a heels girl...will they look good with just some bejeweled flats?

{image via The Glamouri}

mixing glitter

2011-06-15T11:39:00.000-07:00

On this deadly dreary day, all I can think about is that the moment it gets sunny out, I'm head to a pool or patio with soft lounge chairs and cocktail service. It's my own fault for this weather - I actually believed the weathermen and thought it'd be sunny and brought my bathing suit to work for an afternoon pick-me-up; there isn't a sunny ray in sight. These shots from my trip to the Park Hyatt Aviara will have to do for now.

bubbles and rain

2011-06-14T17:33:00.000-07:00

I've been lusting after these Charlotte Olympia shoes since I spotted them on The Man Repeller (one of my favorite reads as of late). While I know they are way out of my price range, when something tickles your dreams day in and day out, and you can continue to picture great outfits with them on, doesn't that mean they're a perfect fit. I tried the whole heels thing today...and lasted about five minutes. I think that's enough of a sign to steer clear of the wedges I've been searching for at Nordstrom, and pick up these pretty ladies.

swing swing

2011-06-10T08:42:00.000-07:00

There are few things more exciting to me than visiting a new home store for the first time - especially one that is as chic as this one from La Jolla. There's a new one right by my house that I have been wanting to visit, hopefully if it's rainy this weekend I won't be distracted by the beach again, and head there tomorrow!

colors

2011-06-09T08:44:00.000-07:00

Bits of my weekend.

a handful of characters

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

My first Picnik experience - it's with pictures that i have used before on the blog, but since we have been using this photo tool at work, i thought it'd be a fun experiment to use it for Surviving Green. Hopefully i'll be able to use it a little more often.

Face Paint

2011-06-06T12:06:00.000-07:00

According to most people, I'm very lucky. But I've realized something recently that may have shattered this world struck by luck. I think I've lost it. I don't know how it happened, but something seems to have slowly crept out of its hiding place in my mind and gone on summer holiday - except that our dates have been all messed up, and when I expected it home, there's nothing. I dream about it often, of all that would happen if the trip wasn't so prolonged, or if I'd had time to sit down and consider the delay. Instead, dreams pop into my head of the time when creativity and success weren't just a dream but a stepping stone and the whole entire world was at my fingertips. For now, I'm going to have to sit on my porch step for the mailman with news.

a horse race

2011-06-02T09:46:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I made it my mission to create the most glutinous cheat day for Josh. it started with a breakfast of simple beignet mix that turned out to be the same mix his mom made when they were growing up {that got me super excited}. Though they weren't exactly like my favorites from Tupelo Junction, i plan on tackling that carmel apple sauce soon.

2011-06-01T08:57:00.000-07:00

I've come to realize that obsessing over outfits created by some of my favorite bloggers is probably unhealthy and unrealistic, since San Diego living is way too laid back for most of these styles. we're a flip-flop wearing city, an area that cares more about the weather and our beaches that how well our heels will look with a purse. On the other hand, capturing some real women on some of these blogs is making me feel a bit better.

{images via}

salty crunch

2011-05-31T09:10:00.000-07:00

There are some things that we can't predict,
and sometimes that's exactly what we need.