Goooood morning sunshine!

I’m feeling super energized + ready to take on my jam packed weekend. It could be the almond milk chai latte I’m sipping . . . but right now I just feel good.
How about you? How are you feeling today?

I wrote a very personal (and vulnerable) post about the 3 hardest words to say to yourself (and others). I’m so happy it’s generating an open discussion about forgiveness. I hope you’ll check it out if you haven’t yet. And leave me a note to let me know what your thoughts about forgiveness are.

As I head off to enjoy a weekend of sun + fun + surprises (including a super sweet one I arranged for my man, tee hee) ~ I wanted to let you know about a local event in case you’re looking for something to do.
It’s called LIVE + DINE L.A., presented by Angeleno Magazine. It’s a “taste of” event featuring some of L.A.’s hottest restaurants and chefs (think Spago, Nobu Malibu, Bestia, Hinoki & The Bird, and many more)! There will be some amazing eats on display, so if you’re not busy this Sunday July 21st from 4:30pm to 8:30pm, join me!
Check the image below for details – or to purchase a ticket (hurry, ticket sales end Saturday night), click here. Hope to see you there!

Cheers to a beautiful weekend – with good friends + good eats!
xo

THIS WEEK’s MISCELLANY

Love the idea of an urban hike as a way to get to know my neighborhood. This looks like fun!

How to taste chocolate mindfully. From one of the best chocolate makers around.

This = awesome. I hope Jay-Z, err I mean Jay Z, thinks so too.

If you want to understand how to fix our financial system in this country, this is actually a really cute + informative educational video.

A beautifully written look at race in America.

Oh Italy.

Love these ladies who aren’t afraid of grey.

This is how we end bullying. Can’t wait to check out the rest of this film.

If the shoe fits . . .

One of my favorite appetizers is this, but I’ve never given it a try at home. Time to remedy that.

Never been into the color blue all that much. But lately, I can’t get enough of it. Peep this eye candy.

Happiness is a choice. Hell yes it is!.

Looking for some new summer shades? My girl Elsa’s got the 411 on what to buy.

A few little “make your life easier” ideas from Apartment Therapy.

One of my favorite sites. Always gives me something to think about + makes me smile. I especially love this image + quote.

Two of my most favorite actors having a candid chat. Sidenote to The Universe: I will work with them someday. #thatisall

Is this not the most beautiful tea party meets bridal shower ever? So sweet.

One more reason to visit San Miguel. Soon.

July is National Ice Cream Month (Sunday 7/21 is Ice Cream Day). As if I needed another reason to indulge. Sidenote, I’ll be going here (maybe more than once this weekend).

I’m not a big drinker, but this, looks like something I would gladly try.

This bookstore looks like heaven. Seattle’s got some amazing book shops, this is at the top of my list to visit.

Most tasting events are usually about wine. I’d like to throw one of these instead.

Jamie is the real deal. Just like honest to goodness real butter. And I love ‘em both!

This will make you uncomfortable, but damn is it true.

	These kids make me actually want one of my own! Their words are so simple. And true. Lots of good lessons here.

	This might be my favorite Ted Talk (after Brené Brown’s on vulnerability and shame). If you’re highly sensitive, addicted or know someone who is – this will resonate.

Howdy friends!

It’s been a crazy week here in our L.A. home.
We came back from a blissful + delicious weekend in the Bay Area to an ant infestation, electrical issues and a cat who still isn’t recovered from being sedated for his dental cleaning.
Mercury is most certainly in retrograde folks.

Nevertheless, it’s also been an amazing week. I had a killer coaching session, started tapping on a regular basis and feel like I’ve broken through some pretty deep seated blocks around money + success. Score!

Anyhoo, how was your week? I’d love to know. And if there’s anything on your mind, leave me a note and let me know how I can help.

Enjoy your weekend lovelies!
xo

THIS WEEK’s MISCELLANY

I can’t tell if this is gratuitous food porn or chef porn.

I’ve worked w/ Alex, read her blog for years and yet she continues to amaze me with her wisdom + courage. If you need a new perspective on breaking up – this is it.

Finally. A cool brand exclusively for ladies who wear glasses.

In LOVE with this magazine. Love this post of sage bits of wisdom for before you wed.

Oh DVF, how I adore you. *via Julie Elliott

There is actually an exhibit called Architecture for Dogs. I need to see this.

Let’s hear it for the 30′s!

Polaroid coasters. Awesome sauce.

Been a big fan of Anne for a few years. I trust everything she recommends. Can’t wait to dig into this book.

This my friends, is beauty.

The habits of happiness. I love how simple his steps are.

The “I must own one before I die” camera maker opened up shop in West Hollywood. Be still my heart.

Baby animals. Omg. I die.

I went a little cray cray over this article about GP. I even left a comment for the site’s editors. File this under: sick of all the hatin’! And side note: 15 minutes of sun per day sans sunscreen = a-ok.

I mentioned wanting to try Cronuts last week. In case you’re still wondering what they are. I defer you to this.

This makes me miss the South so much. Gotta take a trip down soon.

Why it’s cool to hate Nickleback. Not gonna lie, I’m not a fan. And apparently neither are a lot of you out there.

This food blog has been one of my favorites for years. It pretty much trumps everything else in my reading list. Mainly because the photography is beautiful and she includes recipes like this one. Yum!

I’ll be celebrating Bastille Day (Sunday July 14th) at a new favorite place + an old favorite place.

The many uses for edible flowers. Gorgeous!!

Go Tilda!

I want one.

I wish everyone adopted this philosophy and this when it comes to healthcare. There’s a reason pride is one of the seven deadly sins . .

H.U.N.G.R.Y.

Wow. This Doctor is brave + wise. An amazing video worth your 15-minutes.

	This video’s been makin’ the rounds this past week. My alma mater (AFI) put together this video on the anniversary of the film Tootsie. Quite a touching chat with Mr. Hoffman.

	I love when fashion doesn’t take itself so seriously. Alexander Wang totally got it right for his Spring ’13 campaign. So funny!

I don’t know about you, but I’ve got a mad hangover!

Not from celebrating too much during yesterday’s 4th of July shenanigans, but from all the anticipation upon arriving in San Francisco yesterday. This weekend I get to spend all my time visiting with old friends, hitting up all my favorite eateries and seeing what’s new + exciting in the Bay.
It is such an awesome city and I’m just so grateful to get to spend some quality time here with my man + my friends + the city I adore.

I’ll keep it brief this week since I really want to get outside and soak up the scenery here.
I hope you have a brilliant long weekend ~ I’ve got some uber fun and special links + videos below to keep you company should you fancy a little down time on the interwebs.

Sending loads of love + sparkle(rs)!
xo

THIS WEEK’s MISCELLANY

Pet owners :: how awesome is this?

Home sprouting? I think I might try it.

These two. I mean… SO SO heartwarming.

Can’t stop hunting summer sandals. They’re just so damn comfy. How cute are these?

Fog porn. Ahhh, San Francisco.

Have you heard about Alicia Silverstone’s recently launched breast milk sharing program. I’m with my girl Monique on this one.

H&M goes high end (but only in Europe…so far). Someone get me to London, stat!

Mango iced tea sounds exactly like what I need to endure this summer’s heat waves.

I kinda want these.

Loving this clean beauty resource.

Will most definitely be tracking down these ladies in SF this weekend.

Mmmm, grilled shrimp!

Cronuts are the hot new thing in NYC right now. And I want one.

I can never get enough of NYC ~ here’s a peek at yesterday’s 4th of July celebration!

When can I move in here?

This man is a real life hero. And he makes me want to give more to others. Take a few minutes to watch this. It’s worth it.

Go Cho go! This is what’s wrong with entertainment today (well, one of the things).

These look delicious – perfect for summer! So does this.

	How cool is this guy’s chandelier project? It might not be life changing, but it’s certainly making his neighborhood a more beautiful place. I can’t wait to do a drive by once I’m back home.

	Kinda got a little girl crush on Janelle Monáe. And her hot look in her latest music video are all the reason more to adore her.

I’ve been super introspective this week.

Do you ever have days or weeks like that?
I mean, I’m always pretty introspective, analyzing the intricacies of life, but this week was even more so.

I wrote a {surprisingly} polarizing article about what I learned from the whole Paula Deen debacle happening right now. It left me feeling vulnerable and wanting to be accepted, even if my take on the event is not popular opinion. If you haven’t read it, I’d love to know what you think.

Also, I wanted to give you an update, thanks to everyone who offered words of support after last week’s life altering accident. I’m actually writing this week’s post from the same cafe where I almost bit the dust. I’m all about facing my fears. And refuse to let fear run my life. But nonetheless, my hands are shaky, my nerves are a bit frayed and I’m on alert. It’s so interesting how fear continues to live in your body, well after trauma has passed. Like I said, lots to be introspective about this week.

I was inundated with an abundance of videost this week {i love when that happens} and had a really hard time choosing which two to feature below. I hope you’ll spend a few minutes and watch them both. For different reasons, they are both incredibly moving + inspiring. A perfect way to start your weekend!

As for the rest of the links, I’ve got all kinds of treats, visual eye candy and delicious eats – so dig in! And enjoy.

XO

THIS WEEK’s MISCELLANY

If you read nothing else in this week’s Miscellany, read this. It’s now in my top 10 favorite posts of all time. So good!

Socially motivated lifestyle brands are where it’s at. I wish all retail companies had the ethics and heart of these guys.

Online classes for creatives. Their courses are reasonably priced (some even free) and cover everything from photography to photoshop to business management and yoga.

This former fashion photographer deserves some major props.

One of the thought-leaders of my generation, Simon Sinek is doing a live Q+A in NYC in August. Grab a ticket before they’re gone!

Help fund the world’s largest cup of Boba Tea. I for one, can’t wait to see this happen!

The Salt Man. What a cool guy.

Small steps = success. Wise words from a working actor.

I have a thing for renovated barns and stables. This one? Off the hook.

Brilliant words about how to actually create lasting change. From my girl Sally. Who is a genius. And I love her.

This luxury curated box for men is stunning.

Not sure about the salmon dip, but this has some solid tips for avoiding food waste. I will definitely be trying them.

What to say when everything goes wrong. Elegant words for the grieving.

Damn. This girl is spot on. If you’re a gamer or a feminist or both – you’ll want to watch this and this.

This girl tells perfectionism like it is. The brutal truth of it.

Check out Susannah’s tips for loving exercise, when you hate exercise.

Digging this list of non-alcoholic drinks from ’round the globe. Yum!

This roundup of al fresco dining tables has me craving a backyard dinner party.

This look at mother-daughter relationships is strange and fascinating.

I’m pretty internet savvy, but SEO is completely lost on me. Until I found this. Score!

Pure eye candy.

Some girls dream of diamonds. I dream of outdoor baths.

I’ve always wanted to live in France and make fresh cheese. I can now do one of those things quite easily!

How to feel pretty. A simple, but powerful tool for when you’re not feeling it.

If this isn’t the sweetest thing ever . . .

Bye bye Craigslist. This is a much more fun resource if you’re looking for used/vintage furnishings for your casa.

Recipe’s calling my name this week: this, this and this.

This makes me happy. *le sigh*

Pretty much the best ever explanation of fearlessness vs. absence of fear. Leave it to Seth.

	In honor of everyone I know, who struggles to love whom they want to love. This one’s for you. I will fight alongside you for equality, until the day I die. <3

	And for another bit of inspiration. Follow your heart. Just like these two. I’m officially obsessed with them! Thanks Ane for sharing this.

I’m in a bit of a somber mood today.

Yesterday I was having tea with two new friends at my favorite cafe in L.A.
We were casually chatting outside in the late morning sun, when we witnessed two cars collide.
That would’ve been scary enough, but after the collision, one of the cars, who was going quite fast, swerved and was headed straight towards us and the two other tables filled with people.
All I really remember is seeing a black car coming straight at us and thinking, “this is it.” It was stopped by a cement light pole in front of the coffee shop and came literally a few feet from hitting the first table.
Chairs flew, potted plants shattered and we were all covered with dirt and debris. Here’s a photo of the aftermath.
Luckily we are all ok, with the exception of a few bruises and cuts.

All things considered, I’m doing great.
But the emotional impact was something I wasn’t prepared for.
A few weeks ago, I was riding in the car with my love when I told him that I always had wondered what it was like, in that split second, or moment when you knew you were going to die. Call it a sick fascination, but I have always been oddly curious about it. Be careful what you wish for.

Seeing your life flash before your eyes, thinking that this is your last moment, is profoundly sad and yet serene. I wasn’t scared until afterwards. I was a deer frozen in headlights, watching an event unfold that I couldn’t control. And so I had no choice but to accept the present moment.
It was intense.

So today, I’m staying in my PJ’s all day. Sipping chai and cuddling with my furballs.
Thanks for indulging me as I told you this story – it might explain some of the heavier bits inside this week’s Miscellany.
But not to worry, it’s not a TOTAL downer. There’s plenty of stunner’s, so dig in!

My takeaway from all this is a powerful lesson, which I hope you carry with you into your weekend:
Be grateful for what you have. Always be in pursuit of your dreams. Love like you mean it. Life is sweet. And short.

Love x hugs,

THIS WEEK’s MISCELLANY

Gorgeous artisan crafted furniture in LA. Now all I need is a house to put it in.

New music discovery :: Craft Spells. Thanks to Catherine for the heads-up. Sidenote: All of the artists on the Captured Tracks label are bomb.

Everyone has a story. A beautiful post by Marianne Elliott.

It’s Etsy meets Craigslist. Just what I needed . . . another shopping site!

A feminine take on productivity. Beautiful + genius!

Not sure if you should share your art with others? Use this.

A super helpful tutorial on how to create a classic eye w/ makeup pro Bobbi Brown.

Eater is doing a great event featuring young, up-and-coming chefs from around the country. And it’s here in L.A. Score!

This work, by an 18-year old girl, left me speechless.

Are we more connected now that we have social media? One woman took a journey to actually connect in person with her online “friends” when she grew increasingly lonely despite having thousands of “friends”. Looks like an interesting concept for a film.

Injecting HIV to cure cancer? Wow, this is incredible!

There’s something about the light in Florence . . .

A really interesting look at body modification. What are your thoughts on the subject?

5 cities for foodies {that don’t include NYC, Paris, Rome, San Francisco or Spain}. I can personally vouch for #4, which is my favorite spot in the world for food {so far}.

If you use Google Reader for reading your RSS feeds {blogs, news, etc.}, it will be going bye-bye on July 1st. Here’s a roundup of alternatives. I would add Bloglovin’ to the list – which is what I use {and so does Radical Self Love Queen, Gala Darling}. It’s the best!

This poor woman’s pup got attacked by another dog + she’s seeking help paying for the $3k+ vet bills. I wanted to post it here, in case one of you feels the need to give a few bucks to her. What can I say? I’m a sucker for animals in need.

This girl is one of my style-heroes. So it made me feel oh-so-good to read that we both share a love for the BEST tee ever. Seriously it’s the best. And on sale right now too!

Hanging beds? I’m SO putting one of these in my future house!

I love that this designer is rethinking her role in design. I hope we all have the courage to rethink our lives – or at least ask questions.

How to live to be 100? Hint :: move to Greece!

I never fancied myself a bird person, but I might re-think it after seeing this amazing creation!

Get ready to witness something remarkable. In fact, it’s downright horrifyingly funny. Poor little things.

	This family’s story shook me to the core. It made me re-think what family means. Prepare to be inspired! And the campaign that created this video, have made others. Live generously.

	This kid is a total rockstar! If only all of us could be so eloquent, so self assured and stand up so bravely for what’s right. I want to be his friend.

This one’s dedicated to all the Fathers out there.

The boys who became men. And then had kids. And continually sacrificed for us everyday.
I know that my own father struggled and fought for what he’s achieved in his life.
Growing up Japanese American in the 1940′s and 1950′s in this country, wasn’t exactly a walk in the park.
Nevertheless, he worked hard and dedicated his life to providing for his family.

And that’s what I’ve learned from him.
Hard work. Determination. Adventure.
And in his own way, love.
He may not express it the way I do, but my dad is a sensitive soul and has a huge heart.
He taught me to find something I love and give it 110%.
This weekend, I plan on doing just that.
Digging into the work that I love. Putting words to paper. Preparing for a big launch.
And remembering all of the wonderful things he’s taught me over the years.

In my family at least, we don’t often lavish praise, gifts, flowers and love on Dad.
At least not the same way we do on our mom.
So in the spirit of honoring our fathers, I hope you’ll spend some time thinking about what you’ve learned from your own. And if you can, let him know how grateful you are for him.

“I believe that what we become depends on what our fathers teach us at odd moments, when they aren’t trying to teach us. We are formed by little scraps of wisdom.”
~Umberto Eco, Foucault’s Pendulum

Happy Fathers Day!
May your weekend be filled with family + friends + love.

xo

THIS WEEK’s MISCELLANY

This might just be the sweetest thing ever. Thanks to my girl Natalie for posting it.

Need to order this. I’m such a fan-girl of Alexa Chung.

One of my favorite brands has a sale happening right now. Danger zone.

Long live printed magazines! Can’t believe I’ve never been to this spot before. NYC, I think I’m overdue for a visit.

Motorcycle tours – guided + self-guided. This has my girl Sally Hope‘s name written all over it.

This news just made my world! Fresh Italian Salumi, I’ll be seeing you REAL soon!

A crowdfunding platform dedicated to women’s equality. Love this!

The science of epigenetics is totally fascinating. Love this article. {via Natalie}

Flowers for Dad? Why not {especially when they look like these}!

The sweetest thing I’ve ever seen. This girl is a true superhero. Help fund her campaign here.

Hot tub cinema is a new thing. Is it just me or wouldn’t you overheat after 2 hours?

These are undoubtedly my next bedding purchase. SO. Cute.

And they say racism is dead? Not quite. I love how this kid rises above it.

An ode to breaking up.

A beautifully written post about ditching Plan A. And dancing in the rain.

A birthday cake martini? Sounds oddly yummy.

Stunning windows made out of caramelized sugar.

Caffeine withdrawal is now considered a mental illness. Seriously? Oye vey.

The Institute for Art and Olfaction. A whole place dedicated to creative experimentation with scent. Fun! I can’t wait to take a blending workshop.

I adore these little sandwiches.

Want to create a new habit? Here’s the essential mindset shift that will change everything.

Linda Rodin on Advanced Style.

Quite possibly the coolest online “toy” shop.

Next up on my reading list is this.

Why isn’t Melissa McCarthy fine just the way she is? Seriously. This is ridiculous.

I have extreme house-envy right now.

These girls are brave and have something to say to all the hipsters out there.

I got the chills just looking at these photos from inside the cockpit.

Greece is calling my name. Can I stay here please?

Digging all the Southwest motif’s happening everywhere lately.

As I embrace my short hair more and more, I’m loving seeing other ladies rock it too! Love this photo.

	How am I just now discovering the show Web Therapy? I mean. Lisa Kudrow is hilarious. Loving the episodes with Glee star Darren Criss + Perks of Being Wallflower’s Mae Whitman. Can’t wait to dig into the rest of them!

	I adore Vogue’s Grace Coddington. And seeing her on this cute foodie series hosted by Elettra Wiedemann is quite entertaining.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RYAN!!

My not-so-little brother is turning 26 today.
And since I can’t be with him, take him out for toasted ravioli’s and wine and spoil him silly – I thought I’d post this little photo of him and I, with wishes for a profoundly happy birthday! Love you RyRy!

{My brother + I, circa April 2008}

In other news, Mexico was uber relaxing. Our house was gorg + the margaritas were on point + it was perfectly hot and humid. In other words, heavenly.
This weekend what I’m most looking forward to, is seeing my man rock out two nights in a row. Brunch with one of my homegirls. And cuddle time with some seriously needy kitties.

Leave me a note below + let me know what the best moment of your week was!
And in the meantime, enjoy this compilation of Miscellany – I hope it’s the icing on your week.

xo

THIS WEEK’s MISCELLANY

Great tips to better plan your summer travel from Evernote (my favorite ever app).

P.S. Arts is a great non-profit dedicated to arts education in schools. Join their membership program and if you’re in LA you get fab perks at assorted LA hot-spots each month.

What I wouldn’t give to have been at a karaoke night MC’d by this guy. Ken Jeong is a rockstar.

Wonderful advice for HSP’s (Highly Sensitive Person’s) who are traveling. I found it SUPER helpful.

Fancy some street food + a little rock ‘n roll? Join me this weekend at this great event! Hint: You’ll find me by the stage seeing these guys.

This is such a smart service to offer. I will definitely try it out when the time comes.

You GO France! Oui, Oui!

Tips for those who are inked. How to keep your tattoos looking pretty.

Opinions are like assholes. Hilariously brilliant words from the web whisperer Paul Jarvis.

If you are a woman, love a woman, or are raising a woman, do her a favor and watch this!

Do you want to be right? Or free? More wise words from Danielle LaPorte. You can read a few others here.

The one thing I miss about living in the midwest? This.

Does this not look like the most beautiful piece of sweetness ever? I hope it tastes as good as it looks!

Edible jewels. That’s what these beauties look like.

Putting interns in charge of your social media isn’t exactly a smart idea. I’m 100% in agreement with this post.

It’s been 15 years since Carrie Bradshaw first graced our TV screens. And I for one, miss seeing her {and her amazing wardrobe} every week.

In the market for a market tote? I’ll take one of each please.

I love Ellen.

You know you’ve been in a long relationship when . . . This is too funny!

A healthier at-home recipe for Nutella. Danger zone!

The sheer number of online “mini-films” is incredible. Not only are there more of them, but the quality is getting better and better. Mr. Porter has it aced.

In love with the kissing lips ring – and just about everything else by this designer.

If any of you are a fan of Garance Doré {illustrator, fashion blogger, photographer}, it’s worth checking out her recorded Google hangouts. Quite insightful for new bloggers.

Kind of digging this girl + her banjo right now.

	This killer stop-motion music video is snapping up awards left and right. For good reason!

	My man just released his latest music video + a hot new single from his upcoming EP, City of Angels. Watch + Download the song for free, here.

	I can’t wait to see this important documentary. If you’re looking for more info on healthy living, check out this, this and this.

It’s Mexico or bust y’all!

Yep, my man and I are headed for a long weekend away with some good Bay Area friends.
We’ve rented a house and I plan on doing nothing but eating amazing mole, drinking guava margaritas and sitting in the sun by the pool.
Can I get an A-men?!

It’s been a really long 1st half of 2013. Lots of loss, pain and struggle.
And yet it’s also been one of tremendous personal growth. New horizons opening. And a solidness that I’ve never felt before. Things are changin’. Inside + outside.
Hallelujah!
In fact, I’ve got some really exciting news to announce within the next two weeks.
Keep you eyes peeled to the blog {or sign-up for my newsletter if you haven’t yet, so you’ll be the 1st to know)!

Have a weekend filled with sun + fun, wherever you are!
And I’ll make sure and have a guava margarita and a bit of mole in your honor. Just ’cause. Tee hee.

xo

THIS WEEK’s MISCELLANY

I’ve been aching to create something new + fun in the kitchen lately. This looks like a fun place to start.

The gift of siblings.

A fab post on how to wear hair accessories.

What I wouldn’t give to have had this when I was a kid {who am I kidding, I would still LOVE this}!

Another thing my inner kiddo would love to have . . .

NYC people – if you don’t get yourself to this event for yourself, then do it for me. Pretty please?

I want remarkable, exceptional experiences. Whether at the spa, a restaurant or in line at the DMV (ok, maybe that’s asking too much). Love this piece by my friend Denmo on this very subject.

Grumpy cat. On the big screen. YES!

I get sea sick super easy. But on this? Maybe I could deal.

Best commencement speech ever.

Street art is just so cool.

Loving these picnic essentials.

I can’t fight it anymore. I want one of these.

The only bad decision, is indecision. Followed by inaction. A-men to that.

This festival has a great name and just looks badass.

How insanely beautiful is this?

Fava beans + smoked shrimp? Yes please.

House porn.

This cute new hotel is opening on the Westside of L.A. In case anyone wants to come visit me {so I can visit you}.

99% of cancers are curable if caught in Stage 1. Early detection really does save lives. And this organization that is spreading the word to the youth + educating them about cancer ~ is f-ing great!

One of my fave L.A. shops is having a summer kickoff sale this weekend {Sat & Sun 11am to 7pm}.

Leave it to Amazon . . .

THIS guy. Too sweet.

	Because I’ve begun the research phase of writing my 1st film, this is all too relevant right now. I literally watched it five times in a row and laughed my ass off. So funny (and yes, this has happened to me, more times than I can count)!

	The human spirit is beautiful. And loss, no matter who it happens to or how, is powerful, painful and a vehicle for growth. Watch the video below {with a box of tissues} + consider buying his album to support cancer research – or donate to the fund setup by his family.

It’s been a whirlwind of giveaway action this week!

If you haven’t yet seen them, check out my two, yes that’s right TWO, giveaways this week.
One for a few sumptuous Earthbody Organics body oils.
The other for a pair of tickets to see the Tony Award winning Scottsboro Boys in Los Angeles.

In other news, I’m seeing the new Fast & Furious movie tonight {date night, yaaay!}.
Cheesy? Maybe.
But I love a good action-packed, popcorn movie that features cute boys {I’m looking at you Paul Walker} and fast cars, made by a Taiwanese filmmaker {wooot!}.

What are you up to this weekend?
Whatever you have planned, live fast, love furiously {you know I had to} and above all, have FUN.
And if you see me at the theater tonight with my popcorn oogling the screen, come say hi!

xo

THIS WEEK’s MISCELLANY

I’m ready for an Airstream adventure. Anyone? Bueller?

Interesting post on goal setting – it might make you see the concept very differently.

Loving these city guides from Kate Spade. Lots of inspiration + tons of good recommendations.

Brilliant advice on starting from scratch {or not}. This guy nails it. So good!

Terrarium + scent = magic. I love the bottle, how cute is this?!

Madewell {my favorite shop} is having a 20% off sale on all tees + tops thru Monday. Get on it!

This simple little wrist band could really come in handy. Have you tried it?

There’s just something about plaid {when it’s done well} . . .

Sangria season has arrived.

My friend Marthe’s new site is live. And it’s STUNNINGLY beautiful. Designed + Created by my own web team whom I adore. Check it out!

Coolest map ever. Find out the meaning behind the street names in San Francisco. Fascinating. P.S. I miss you SF! (via Nubby Twiglet)

My LA peeps – how awesome does this street food + cinema event look? Can’t wait for Mean Girls.

In love with these napkins. So eco-chic.

I’m a big fan of non-toxic + eco-friendly + good for us + good for the earth. The last time I painted an apartment I used Yolo’s eco-friendly paints and they’re A-mazing! Hardly any of the nasty paint smell + good for you and the planet. This is a great roundup of eco-friendly paints!

I don’t need a sign. But if I did, I’d hire this guy. A great little video.

The perks of having a home garden.

Art is pretty. This woman’s art is pretty AND makes me want to pick-up a paintbrush.

Thinking of signing up for one of their beginner improv classes. Mostly because it’s where Maya Rudolph + Melissa McCarthy performed. Improv is scary to me though. Have you done it?

This new book is out from the guys at Behance + 99 U – a ton of amazing contributors! It’s most definitely on my wish list.

I’m a big fan of Kat (a.k.a. The Rock ‘N Roll Bride / a.k.a. a Blogcademy’s headmistress). And I loved her recent post about her 1st ever cleanse experience with The Clean Program. Love reading about people’s adventures in healthy eating (plus she’s offering a stellar giveaway)!

Not all sunscreens are created equal. In fact, some are downright toxic. Here’s a great resource to find out if yours are.

	How to piss off a New Yorker. This made me laugh – too funny {and so true}.

	This kid’s got it right. Boys – pay attention!

*OBLIGATORY AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE
If you happen to purchase anything I recommend here or elsewhere on my website, I might receive some kind of affiliate compensation. However, I ONLY recommend things that I truly love, use and that I can share with friends and family in good conscious. I have only your happiness and personal growth in mind. If you ever have an issue with something I recommend please let me know. Thanks!

Get ready to dig in, my friend!

This week’s Miscellany is jam-packed with visual + moving image inspiration GALORE.
I went a little cray-cray pulling together the best-of-the-best links from around the web for you {and let’s be real, for me too}.
I adore this edition and I hope you do to.

The big news for me this week is that I started working out again after a very lengthy absence.
I’m not a big fan of exercise, but am so excited about starting the Tracy Anderson method again.
She makes cardio fun {think lots of dance moves}!
It’s a killer commitment – an hour per day, 6-days per week for 3 months.
But I’m up for the challenge. And so is my body.
In fact, I think I just learned to enjoy sweating during yesterday’s workout.
Can I get an A-men? And a cheers to “Project Get-In-Shape-Girl”?!

What are you “working out” this weekend?
Whatever it is, I hope it’s something yummy + crazy fun.

Happy Friday!
xo

THIS WEEK’s MISCELLANY

In honor of Gatsby ~ a little look at Tobey + Leo’s longtime friendship. So sweet.

Stories We Tell. ‘Cause we ALL have stories. Can’t wait to see this!

As I get ready for Mexico this list of must-have travel remedies will come in super handy!

Profound look at astronauts perspective on earth + life. I had chills watching this. So fascinating!

I’ll be writing more about my fave beauty products in upcoming posts, but for now, peep these 20 lipsticks to steer clear of!

I am obsessed with rompers. Like OBSESSED. I might not take mine off until Fall. Therefore, I should probably invest in a few of these, to get me through summer.

Stop complaining.

I need this in my life. Stat.

Men experience labor. I never thought I’d see the day. Soooo funny.

What’s your #2 telling you? Yep. I went there.

Are you an inspiration seeker like me? A great post about applying all that inspiration to your work. Good stuff!

The best 5 minutes of my week was spent watching this.

An interesting article on an unintended side-effect the Broadway musical The Book of Mormon might be having. Pretty interesting read for someone who grew up in the church.

Feeling this photo today. Beautiful + simple. Oh Mr. Schuman…your photos are perfection.

One more from my fave street-photographer. Denim, denim, denim. I love it.

I just downloaded this super-rad digital book about Paris. It’s making me antsy to get my butt on a flight.

A sweet + easy tutorial if you’re into distressed denim, but don’t want to pay for it.

Sarah Wilson just released her “I Quit Sugar Chocolate Cookbook” – I love everything this woman writes, this is no exception. Can’t wait to dig into all her choco recipes!*

J. Crew’s got a fab sale happening for ladies right now. 20% off all women’s apparel. Holla!

My last meal on earth would include shrimp & grits. For those of you that aren’t on the up & up with grits, I defer you to this.

This series of portraits is genius.

I am a woman. This girls words speak to my soul.

Damn they make cooking look so, so good. I love how moody and evocative their videos are.

Another of my favorite fashion photographers. How grand is this runway capture?

My go-to healthy beauty blog is celebrating Melanoma Awareness Month by donating proceeds of this clean sunscreen to charity. Stock up y’all!

I’ll bet you can’t get through all of these images without shedding a tear. So. Powerful!

A nice list of options if you’re not boozing it up these days.

Makes me miss living in St.Louis. I love thunderstorms!

	A few killer songs + a hardcore lip sync-off = sheer perfection! I adore these two.

	Made By Hand is by far my favorite online web series. The filmmakers nail both the power of storytelling and artfully crafted imagery. Their newest episode just came out and it’s SO good. A must watch!
Made by Hand / No 5 The Bike Maker from Made by Hand on Vimeo.

*OBLIGATORY AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE
If you happen to purchase anything I recommend here or elsewhere on my website, I might receive some kind of affiliate compensation. However, I ONLY recommend things that I truly love, use and that I can share with friends and family in good conscious. I have only your happiness and personal growth in mind. If you ever have an issue with something I recommend please let me know. Thanks!