Sweet Temptations

Who can resist these delectable confections?

courtesy of Martha Stewart

Wedding Outfit

I have a wedding to attend this Saturday, and I found this dress a few days ago.

What I'm wondering is, which shoes should I wear with it?

Love Song

How shall I hold my soul, that it may
not be touching yours? How shall I lift
it then above you to where other things
are waiting? Ah, gladly would I lodge it,
all forgot, with some lost thing the dark
is isolating on some remote and silent
spot that, when your depths vibrate,
is not itself vibrating.

You and me--all that lights upon us,
though, brings us together like a
fiddle-bow drawing one voice from
two strings it glides along. Across
what instruments have we been
spanned? And what violinist holds
us in his hand? O sweetest song.

A poem from Ranier Maria Rilke

Mere Coincidence?

I think not! Channeling my early Helena Bonham Carter. . . . before she became Tim Burton's gothic muse.

Feminine Graces

These femininely flattering dresses with their flourishes of ribbons, lace and bows provide somewhat of a contrast to the more modern look of the Black & White dresses in the previous post. So what are you wearing for your date this Thursday?

All dresses from Betsey Johnson

A Black & White Classic

This is one of my favorite Givenchy dresses on Audrey! Doesn't it look made for her? Simply stunning. . .

It's Not Always Black & White

But sometimes it is! At least when it comes to the elegant dresses below. I thought these heart-shaped accessories from Banana Republic would be a perfect complement to polish off the look.

All dresses from White House / Black Market

Happy Birthday!

My birthday happens to fall in February, so I thought it might be fun and interesting to recall the birthdays of some noteworthy February celebrants. . . .

Clark Gable - February 1, 1901

Ronald Reagan - February 6, 1911

Lana Turner - February 8, 1921

Eva Gabor - February 11, 1921

Sidney Poitier - February 20, 1927

Liz Taylor - February 27, 1932

These Will Have You Singing in the Rain

Ahhh, you have to hand it to the French, they certainly know how to do things with style! Even a typically utilitarian object such as an umbrella does not escape their artistic sensibilities. These fanciful creations are the work of Chantal Thomass of Paris, of course.

Sleep perchance to dream.

If I had such a bed as this in such a setting as serene, I think sweet dreams would come very easily! This photograph was taken by Angelika Taschen for the book Provence Interiors by Lisa Lovatt-Smith.

Would You Be My Valentine?

Found some lovely gift ideas for Valentine's Day. The first three items are from Red Envelope and the last is from Lollia Life.

Romantic Rendezvous

I've been thinking about this a lot recently because of that heart-shaped holiday that is coming up soon. Now I know that not everyone is a big fan of said holiday, and though I myself am fond of its sentiment, I am less than thrilled with it's hyped-up commercialism. That said, the ideas I'm about to present can hopefully be an inspiration for any special occasion, whether that be a birthday or anniversary celebration. Note: The following scenarios are ones I've actually experienced or have longed to experience. The locations are predominantly around the Bay Area, because, well, that's where I'm from. . .


Getting Cozy in Carmel
Carmel is quaint and lovely. Yes, it is a bit touristy but, unfortunately, that's what happens to nearly every spot worth visiting. You can only keep it a secret for so long! Still, it is worth braving the occasional tourists for it's picturesque seaside village of charming cottages, cobble-stoned pathways, and beautiful white sand beach at the very end of Ocean Avenue. I would start by cruising along 17-Mile Drive (be sure to begin at the Pacific Grove gate and end up in Carmel) to get a glimpse of the amazing homes and even more amazing scenery of rugged coastline and pine trees. Next, I would have to recommend horseback riding along Pebble Beach. I've actually done this and it was one of the loveliest experiences of my life. When my husband and I went, we were blessed with gorgeous weather and the views were simply breathtaking! I would end the day by dining at any one of Carmel's fine dining establishments.


Wander the Wine Country
Napa Valley is no longer just for wine lovers. Aside from wine tasting and fine dining, there are plenty of activities for couples to enjoy together. One of my favorites (besides dining!) is getting a massage. Lavender Hill Spa in Calistoga is one lovely place to receive such a pampered treat. You definitely have to visit a few wineries, too, if not for the wine then for the beautiful gardens and architecture. Some of my favorite are Rubicon Estate (formerly Niebaum-Coppola Winery), Peju Province, and Beringer. For a nice picnic spot, head to V. Sattui Winery. If you're seeking something a little more active or adventurous, there are bike tours, kayaking or even hot air balloon rides! Once the dinner hour rolls along, I would opt for the town of Yountville for any number of fine restaurants to dine at, such as Bouchon, Bistro Jeanty or Domaine Chandon.


Seduced by San Francisco

I live in the north bay which affords me the option of taking the ferry to San Francisco. I much prefer this method of visiting the city for several reasons--no sitting in traffic, not having to find parking (which can be notoriously challenging), not having to pay for parking, and being able to enjoy a leisurely, scenic commute. I once took the ferry to S.F. at night around Christmastime, and it was lovely to view the city skyline and the twinkling holiday lights upon approach. One of my perfect days is being able to ferry to S.F. on a Saturday morning to visit the Farmer's Market in front of the Ferry Terminal Building. After browsing the various stalls of fresh, organic produce and possibly purchasing some items to take home, you can head inside the ferry building which has become a foodie marketplace, to grab lunch or a snack. During our last visit, we ate at the Hog Island Oyster bar which is a must for any self-respecting oyster lover! But there is a good variety of dining options to choose from--from burgers to seafood. After you've fueled up, get your blood pumping by climbing up to Coit Tower via the Filbert Steps and you'll be awarded with a spectacular panoramic view of the city and the bay.