Toast and Mimosa

never for money, always for love...

2011-03-17T21:58:00.000-07:00

cover up and say goodnight

sayyy goodnight.

goodnight.

M + MGMT

What is comes down to is common courtesy...

2010-11-22T21:08:00.000-08:00

and that seems to be a forgotten concept.

photo source found here

The incredible edible EGG...I think...

2010-09-16T07:53:00.000-07:00

Image: Carole Itter, Raw Egg Costume. Courtesy of the artist.

Sunny side up, over easy, poached, or plastic...I think everything about this is great.

Thoughts?

-btw, thinking of doing a crazy costume inspiration post every day until All Hallow's Eve.-

Even though I already have my costume ideas under way, I can't see or say enough.

purple haze, purple haze

2010-09-15T09:37:00.000-07:00

Colored SMOKE by French designers Thomas Couderc and Clement Vauchez

ahhhhhhh.

http://www.helmo.fr/

a pretty Pozen preview w/ Z Spoke...

2010-09-13T23:38:00.000-07:00

VIA JEZEBEL: Zac Posen said he wanted his lower-priced Z Spoke collection to speak to women with one-track minds.

"I've made a lot of pieces that can seduce and that will secure the deal," he told British Vogue.-

He sure did.

Bravo Mr. Posen!

special thanks to EBAY/E&J for allowing me to be an winner...

2010-09-12T14:12:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth and James DORIS silk dress

I WON! I WON! YESSSSSS I WON! :0

Amongst all of the football watching, screaming, and ranting going on in this house today,

I got to scream in excitement myself.

Thank you Ebay for saving me $355 plus tax this fall season.

and thank you to the rest of the Elizabeth and James obsessed fashionistas for being to busy drinking mimosas (or pretending to watch football) on this Sunday afternoon to bid on this amazing dress.

I have been wanting it for quite a while.

-and I am sort of joking about the "pretending" to watch football part.

If there is enough food and booze around, I get plenty excited. ;)

a tasty, chrunchy, cholesterol free, TABASCO flavored post....

2010-09-12T13:34:00.000-07:00

YES.

I am breaking my silence to deliver news of Zapp's Tabasco flavored, neon red-orange hued, bag of salty creole potato chip perfection. If you love Tabasco flavored anything, as much as I, you will be so happy I told you so. I picked my bag up while browsing the sandwich section at Antone's.

-and btw, these chips just so happen to be LIMITED EDITION, making them just that much more special.

Better hurry before Zapp's pulls a McRib on us all.

Until the next speecy spicy discovery...

you can click here to "like" Tabasco on Facebook.

you got it dude: elizabeth & james fall 2010 lookbook....

2010-08-18T10:12:00.000-07:00

Thank you Mary Kate and Ashley.

Now I'll have to start searching for not one, not two, but 3 new jobs to pay for all of this.

How ruuude!

:)

Just another day en Valentino's atelier...

2010-08-17T09:49:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Gail Sorronda for sharing these vip Valentino shots.

How inspiring and surreal would it be to be invited to see this kind of haute couture action in the middle of the night?

Lucky her.

btw-I just realized how silly this post is going to look above yesterday's. Heart shaped meats and things to couture.

Valentino deserves better!

I'll try and balance things out tomorrow.

Food for the heart...

2010-08-16T11:06:00.000-07:00

heart shaped sandwiches.

heart shaped burgers.

and some heart shaped sushi.

yes. yes. and yes!

photo source: google images.

tgif: skate or die...

2010-08-13T17:00:00.000-07:00

I like this photo. I also really like byob adult 80's themed birthday parties at roller rinks.

Thank you Carly and Briggs for letting us celebrate the both of you tonight in such a fun way.

TGIF ya'll. I hope you have so much fun this weekend soaking up the end of Summer.

I will leave you with a link to one of the freshest, most fun blogs I have seen in a while...

thanks to my friend Brandi over at Bueno Bueno.

Check out TROP ROUGUE here.

ta ta for now.

MAS photos de Momentum MINI madness...

2010-08-12T08:28:00.000-07:00

day 3 of the fun.

(painting outdoors in 100+ degree weather)

TGIF. End of the week shot outside of the lovely Wade Wilson Gallery.

(posing in 100+ degree weather)

Almost there. Mini group take off outside of the M2 Gallery.

and btw, M2 is the perfect example of what to do with with an old abandoned theatre!

myself, kim granneman, mad max, rebecca bass, robynn sanders, daniel ortiz, patrick medrano,

sean & stephanie o'keefe

and last but not least, my minutes spent envying little Sean O'keefe's

Parachute Panic skills.

What fun. :)

-oh and please BE SURE to check out the Flickr photo pool of the big event

here.

Some really amazing shots!

p.s. all above photos taken by the lovely Katy Anderson.

Thanks to Sweet Lola, I'm now addicted to fancy frozen treats...

2010-08-10T09:22:00.000-07:00

Lavender frozen yogurt-my drug of choice.

made with fresh crack, errr I mean lavender daily.

(ahhhh. I can smell it now.)

& you can finish it all while sitting at their magical little Pellegrino bar.

Sweet Lola Yogurt Bar- an all natural, fancy little yogurt shop that I kind of wish I had never found.

It's been a piping HOT Summer here in Houston and cold frozen treats are about all I think about.

-margaritas included, but that's for another day's post-

At sweet Sweet Lola they serve lavender, blush-a kind of rose flavor, and the some of the best, most bitter dark chocolate you've ever had. All made daily from all organic/natural ingredients. Oh, and they also have these little sea salted peanut butter "croutons" that did me in for full junkie status.

So how about ya'll...are there lots and lots of fancy frozen yogurt shops popping up in your hood?

Are you addicted like me?

mini art cars and mucho sweat...

2010-08-09T09:59:00.000-07:00

photo by my amazing friend Katy Anderson

It's been some days since my last entry and I wanted to give you all a "mini" update on things...

Last week, Momentum Mini Cooper donated a few cars to a few local artists to go nuts with. Thankfully, I was lucky enough to be chosen to participate in the fun. We had a little less than a week to complete this Mini Art Car Project, but with a huge group effort and a little bit of blood, sweat, and tears...we made it happen. Honored and determined to make my Mini my own, I chose to address the nastiness of BP's little Summer spill by covering the car in many, mini angry little sea creatures.

So much fun to be a part of and so much more to show and tell!

Stay tuned...

and I thought technicolored bacon only existed in dreams...

2010-08-03T08:21:00.000-07:00

in the case that you want to try this at home,

a few pictures of the process...

Thank you Bacon Today.

(a site that I will probably ither become obsessed with, or wish I had never found)

I never thought bacon could look so fancy, and..ummm. so gross.

-and I happen to L.O.V.E. bacon-

What do you think?

Typography toasts!...

2010-08-02T10:16:00.000-07:00

Pretty clever!

What foods would/could you use for your own foodie alphabet?

I'm thinking of some sort of fried egg/bacon variation,

but that's only because I'm hungry and skipped breakfast.

Helbreadica found here.

One tequila, two tequila, three tequila, FLOWER!

2010-07-21T11:34:00.000-07:00

So the other night, after a couple cocktails at Poison Girl, a nerdy group of us decided to make a midnight run to Houston's Museum of Natural Science to check out Lois, Houston's own resident Corpse Flower.

I had never even heard of such a flower -especially one over 6 ft.- and nither had a few of the others, so we had to see it.

-Also, the museum has been staying open 24 hours waiting on the big lady to bloom.

When Lois decides to bloom, she is supposed to smell of rotting meat/ corpses-hence the name.

Lois obviously has not bloomed yet, word is she has started to open, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't curious to see what this stench and stink is all about.

As for now, we are all on standby for news of the big bloom.

Hopefully when the news comes, it'll be at a more normal,

much safer hour. Ha.

Nola, not done yet...perfect romance and snails at Irene's

2010-07-19T21:28:00.000-07:00

So we chose Irene's for the last dinner, wow, excuse me...BIRTHDAY dinner, in Nola.

A couple of locals we had met at Port of Call had highly recommended Irene's

for a semi pricey, kind of romantic, super delicious Italian/Creole dinner.

It was a lot to promise, but thankfully we listened.

To start-I HAD to have the escargot (one of my favorites), over heard it was the "best in the world" from a couple waiting at the bar and this turned out to be true. These beautiful snail babies were served stuffed inside of huge mushrooms soaked in just enough butter and garlic, all sitting on top of crisp little toasts. Ahhhh snail perfection. I must say that I haven't had any better anywhere else. Dare to change my mind. :)

Moving on, we also had the prosciutto with melon and greens. Sadly, the plate was a little scarce of the prosciutto-

but the main course made up for that.

Main course-rack of lamb served rare w/garlic mashed potatoes and green beans.

It was soooo delicious. Cooked perfectly bloody rare, it just melted in your mouth. If I wasn't a lady-or nobody was looking for that matter, I would have gnawed it to the bone.

(for those of you who don't know yet, I'm quite the carnivore)

In closing-I hope I didn't offend or gross any of you non meat eaters out too much,

but for the rest of you-

if you are ever in New Orleans and in search for an especially eclectic dinner spot,

you must visit Irene's.

p.s. I did attempt to take a photo of the best escargot ever, but the amount of wine and not being able to use a flash crippled my skills just a tad...

next time!

My 3 step guide to enjoying the world's best burger at Port of Call, Nola...

2010-07-15T10:09:00.000-07:00

1. Order one of Port of Call's many Polynesian poisons.

-I usually get the Monsoon-

2. Start sipping

-this is a joyous occasion after all-the best burger of your life is on it's way-

3. Take a pic to share, say a little prayer, and start eating.

-If you a mushroom freak like me, I highly recommend piling both your burger AND your mandatory baked potato (no fries served here) with mushrooms.

Mushrooms, meat, and monsoons..

What more could you ask for?

Spotted: Tanya & Dorise French Quarter, Nola...

2010-07-14T07:38:00.000-07:00

Tanya and Dorise performing in the Quarter this past Saturday.

They played the most beautiful cover of Taylor Swift's -You belong with me-

I've since been obsessed with trying to find the most amazing cover of the song, but I'm pretty sure these ladies had it down. I sure wish I would have recorded it.

Aha! I just find a little clip of them performing on youtube-take a listen!

(if you listen closely, you can hear the "videographer" singing along. kind of funny)

Until next time, with tips in hand, I'll be prepared with video.

turning 27 in Nola was a fantastic idea...

2010-07-12T17:11:00.000-07:00

I know I have been o.o.c. for the last two weeks, which deserves an update all in it's own..

but for now, I would love to share a few tidbits and clips from my magical birthday weekend.I'll be posting them all week, so stay tuned.
As for Mexico, tropical storm Alex ruined most of our photo ops. That bastard. Good thing I returned home in one piece just in time to ring in my 27th year in one of my favorite cities, NEW ORLEANS.
WHO DAT!!! Oh yeah, how could I leave this out...In the photo above, I am drinking a Hurricane at the famous Pat Obrien's.Probably the most delicious, most caloric drink that I ever had.-it was worth every sip.

Playa Del Carmen, I can't wait to see you...

2010-06-24T09:25:00.000-07:00

All apologies for the absence in posts this week. :/

I've been distracted with preparations for my departure a Mexico. I leave today and couldn't be more excited! I promise to put down my margarita and take a few photos to share with all of you!

besos y besos!

p.s. I felt like sharing a little video for one of my favorite happy songs by one of my favorite singers. I hope you all have a fantastic week & enjoy!

TGIF w/ ROTTER & friends...

2010-06-18T06:33:00.000-07:00

Came across this far out little blog today.

Rotter and Friends.com/wisdom

they hooked me with this Galactic Rotts post.

anyone else remember Figment??

I doooo!

p.s. be sure and check out their little shop too.

In other news...It's FRIDAY!

Are ya'll going to watch the big game this morning?

I am definitly going to try and sneak some time to post up and watch the action for a little bit.

Can't lie though, I'm mostly going for the free coffee and breakfast tacos my friend Ashley has promised me.

USA!

;)

in the 80's, we had fun with our food...

2010-06-17T08:39:00.000-07:00

don't drown your foooood,
in mayo, SALT, ketchup, or goo.
It's no fun to eat what you can't even see,
so don't drown your fooooood!

-louis the lifegaurd

I could learn from this.

:/

new & old: WINDY FREDA FALL '10

2010-06-15T23:05:00.000-07:00

pictured above: a few pieces from WINDY FREDA's new fall 2010 collection

In a recent wave of feather accessories,

I must say that Windy Freda has some of the most UHmazing, most feminine hairpieces I've seen.

They also have some pretty

ridiculous necklaces and lace collars- which you can see for yourself here.

There is a slight chance that I could be so partial to these pretty pieces given that designer Susannah Lipsey runs shop in good 'ol Marfa,TX.

-or it could also be that her 'lil sis just happens

to be mi companera de cuarto!

Ither way, I am postive I am not the only one excited about W. Freda's new offerings.

;)

studs, studs, and mas sparkly studs...

2010-06-15T06:28:00.000-07:00

tough stuff maybe, but definitly very, very pretty.

photo source 1 2 3 4 5 6

never be a dirty bird...

2010-06-14T16:43:00.000-07:00

give a hoot, don't pollute!

;)

p.s. as I was "labeling" this post, I quickly had to remind myself how to spell

e-n-v-i-r-o-n-m-e-n-t

Al Gore would be so dissapointed.

BEACH please!...

2010-06-11T07:53:00.000-07:00

Vanity Fair's collection of the world's most recognizable beach bodies.

sigh.

Anyway, below is a strange, but nice video that I found for one of my favorite songs.
Enjoy & TGIF!

art smart: attack of the seashell ladies!

2010-06-10T09:25:00.000-07:00

The Shell Ladies of Margate - Anne Carrington

How gorgeous are these shell ladies?!

Lady Carrington made 13 of them, 7 ft. tall, using melon and oyster shells.

Each shell lady has a name and a story inspired by infamous female figure's from Margate's past.

-click here to see more or her work.-

hot dog love: Sonoran's do it better...

2010-06-09T08:15:00.000-07:00

Pictured above-delicious Sonoran hot dogs...

Via The Times: “A ketchup-and-mustard hot dog is boring,” continued Ms. Murillo, a high school senior. “They’re not colorful enough. You’ve got to make them colorful, and pile on the stuff. The best hot dogs come from Sonora,” the Mexican state immediately to the south. “Everybody knows that.”

Apparently I've been missing out.

I've seen plenty of billboards around town for James Coney Island's new Sonoran menu offerings.

I guess I'll just have to taste and see for maself!

check out a Houston Press article about the Sonoran dog invasion here.

delicious.

attack of the JOUTFITS...

2010-06-08T08:11:00.000-07:00

joutfit = jean outfit.

cute? yes? no?

I think, I think so.

image source

Free Press Summer Fest 2010...

2010-06-07T14:34:00.000-07:00

Ben and I surviving day 2 of summer fest

photo of the action by Jordan Graber

It must be said that Ra Ra Riot, Girl Talk, Stars, Slim Thug w/ Bun B,

Flaming Lips and many other amazing bands started off another hot Houston summer just right.

Can't wait for next year!

Dear Nine by Design, I love you...

2010-06-07T06:05:00.000-07:00

The Novogratz family-not pictured, the newest addition, baby Major

Is anyone else addicted to this show? I feel like I learn something new everything I watch.

They make me want to refurbish lots of old things, have lots of attractive babies, and make lots of money.

Looks easy enough, right?

photo source

TGIF: Summersong came along...

2010-06-04T06:18:00.000-07:00

YACHT-Summersong

TGIF! Summerfest is this weekend, which means Girl Talk and many,many others are in our fine city of Houston. I promise to take plenty of pictures.
We went last year and despite the rainy weather followed by a lot heat and a lot of mud, it was a great time.
See some of ya'll there!

Have a terrific weekend everybody.

xo,
m

getting fit should be more fun...

2010-06-03T16:48:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the absence in posting this week.

I had a case of what I'm calling the post memorial day lazies, but I think I'm cured now.
Speaking of the lazies, I've been trying to come up with more exciting ways to get into better shape.

My friend Ashley and I are starting a month long early morning boot camp next week

-which I am very excited about btw,

but I still think I need a few extra toys to keep things fun at home.

I'm thinking about a pair of roller skates.

Wouldn't that be fun?!

I found a pretty cute and cheap pair at Academy-only $35

Hope to pick them up before the weekend!

p.s. we got a grrreat deal on the boot camp via Groupon. I'm brand new at the whole groupon thing, but so far I am very impressed!

photo source

TGIF: eat drink and be merry...

2010-05-28T17:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day weekend everybody.

We're planning on filling the schedule with barbecues and the beach. Can't wait to eat delicious things and spend some time with friends.

and speaking of barbecue, Louie Mueller Barbecue was featured on Diners Drive Ins and Dives this week. Thank goodness it's here in Texas because everything looked so good.

-they've even got themselves a James Beard Award-

I'm looking forward to getting fat and happy in this establishment very, very soon.

click here to get hungry and see what I'm talkin' 'bout!

click here to see a funny collection of vintage meat advertisements.

What are ya'll planning on eating and drinking this holiday weekend?

p.s. rainbow cake. yum.

SATC 2! SATC 2!

2010-05-27T20:47:00.000-07:00

I'm not going to lie, I am a little excited to go see SATC 2.

Are any of you planning on seeing it tonight? If so, what did you think?

Don't be afraid to tell me your best and worst thoughts, I already let the "tomatometer" ruin it for me.

:/

take an uplifting click here for a terrific archive of Carrie outfits past...

fashionable early start:HALLOWEEN costume ideas...

2010-05-26T22:11:00.000-07:00

What about going as Casey and Henry from Party Down?

You probably all think I'm crazy, and I know it's a ways away, but I LOVE halloween.

(and I love Party Down)

I typically start talking about what I'm going to be "next year" on Nov. 1st.

I thought this would be a cute couple's idea for one of those pre Halloween parties that you don't want to splurge on.

What do you think?

bondage for your EARS...

2010-05-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

han cholo x lovemade earpiece

Pretty and interesting. I'd love to purchase, but I'm refraining for now.

I'd be in a tangled mess in minutes.

Update: I just found a few more earpiece options over at Litter SF .

Very pretty and they look a lot easier to wear.

p.s. they sell thumb holsters too!

more couture confections...

2010-05-24T11:25:00.000-07:00

Via Stylephile: These cupcakes bring a whole new meaning to the word rich. Designed by prop stylist Lisa Edsalv and shot by Swedish photographer Therese Aldgard, the treats are inspired by the labels of Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Betsey Johnson, and Christian Louboutin. We can only imagine how expensive these would be if they were actually edible.

tgif: time for some musical inspiration!

2010-05-21T11:45:00.000-07:00

VHS or Beta!

Burn It All Down!

Love this song! Love VHS or Beta!

I actually met Craig, the lead singer, by an accident of sorts. I didn't know who he was and I walked right up to him at a concert and asked him if he'd be interested in modeling in one of my shows. (for those who don't know, I used to make all sorts of clothes.) Thankfully he was very kind and said he totally would, if he LIVED here. This was about the time I kind of put two and two together and figured that he must be with one of the bands playing that night. Obviously I figured out who he was when he went on stage. Sooo embarrasing.

Safe to say, I ended up sending him a few of my teeny tiny men's jackets to make up for it.

Thankfully, he was pleased.

Anyways, on to it...this band first had me with Le Funk .Then it was Night on Fire. --which I've probably listened/danced to over a billlion times--
and still, they have me hooked with Bring on The Comets. They're all just so good.
I hope you all stop and take a listen!

--and to Craig and the rest of VHS or Beta, if you have a heart, you will all come back to Texas
and play sometime soon. K, thanks.

p.s. if you are close by or travel happy, hurry up and buy your ACL tickets before they sell out.
The line up is UHmazing. We bought ours yesterday. Cannot wait!

sweet design: chandelier de gummi!

2010-05-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

How sweet is this chandelier made of gummi bears?

I wonder how many little gummis were eaten in the process...

check out more from the artist here.

diy handbag: chanel de papel!

2010-05-19T09:49:00.000-07:00

Haha. Awesome.

This "fake it until you make it" paper bag post was found by way of my friend Amy over at Varnish.
I love how crunk and crooked the CC is.

What would Coco say?!?

what a shame: abandoned theaters...

2010-05-18T07:29:00.000-07:00

These were all once beautiful places to gather and be entertained. How do we let this happen?

Poor pretty theaters.

click here to see the top 20 "scariest" abandoned theaters.

image source: google images

must have: little yellow dress...

2010-05-17T17:21:00.000-07:00

I'm in love this little yellow dress from Anthropologie.

Of course it's by my favorite label, Leifsdottir and of course it's over a couple bills, but

I. have. to. have. it.
I think it would be perfect for a Summer wedding, or dinner party,
or just to sit and drink mimosas in. ;)

oh, and doesn't it remind you of Belle's dress from Beauty and the Beast?

another reason to love diet dr. pepper...

2010-05-12T22:27:00.000-07:00

this awkward ad and all of it's promises..

I hope you all have your seeing eye glasses ready to read this fine print. It really is worth it. -but just in case...

"Put on the suit, peek in the mirror and quickly take a sip. Then look in the mirror again and take another sip. Notice how Sugar Free Dr Pepper tastes better and better every time you look in the mirror?"

Not that I mind the taste of Diet DP at all-in fact I'm kind of addicted to the stuff, I just wish these amazing health/beauty benifits really came along with each sip.

Wait...

sip, I'm actually shrinking, sip, sip, as I type this, sip.

Ah yes. In my perfect world.

image source: popsucker.

Highsnobiety deliciousness...

2010-05-12T14:43:00.000-07:00

very fashionable treats by artist MASSIMO GAMMACURTA via Highsnobiety.

check out his blog here.

vintage ANNA...

2010-05-12T12:05:00.000-07:00

Anna Wintour in the 80's.

I'm feeling a little inspired by these two ensembles today. The bodysuits paired with the pleated skirts just looks like so much fun. I am now definitely thinking about purchasing this Zac Posen one piece and working it with some skirts this summer. Thank you 1980's Anna!

photo source.

belated post: music discovered on the road...

2010-05-10T12:12:00.000-07:00

I missed out on making my daily posts most of last week, which means lots of ground to cover this week.
Let's get started...

This past, past weekend, somewhere between Alabama and Mississippi, this song came on the local 80's station. I really thought we had struck gold on the road, being the HUGE Rod Stewart fan that I am and never hearing this romantic track before. Turns out that "Love Touch" was the theme song for the 1986 movie Legal Eagles starring my man Robert Redford. Awesome. How have I gone all my years without hearing this song before? Why has Houston radio been holding out from playing this amazingness?

And to make this new song discovery even sweeter, we dug up the "Love Touch" music video. Hope you enjoy.

cut+color: it's on with alexa chung...

2010-05-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

hair inspiration/aspirations...

I have been in bad need of some major hair help/inspiration. After months and months of wrecking my hair and color with spur of the moment $10 boxes of clairol courtesy of the cvs right next to my house, I'm ready for the help of experts. After surfing the net looking for my idea of at-the-moment hair perfection, I have decided to steal some mojo from Alexa Chung. I really like what she's doing right now. Kind of beachy, lighter on the ends, and just long enough for an easy pony tail.

What do you think?

image source

tgif: off to Lake Martin

2010-04-30T10:06:00.000-07:00

Taking off today for our friend's wedding in Lake Martin, Alabama. I haven't been to Alabama since I was a young little thing, so I'm pretty excited for this weekend's adventure.

The weather is not looking so great, but hopefully the sun peaks out to give us a little fun on the lake.

Oh well. Rain or shine, lots of cake eating and champagne drinking is always guaranteed-so we got that going for us.

Have a safe and lovely weekend you guys!

p.s. don't you just love this bride's persimmon shoes? I do.

photo source here.

this time last year...

2010-04-29T07:23:00.000-07:00

with The Sartorialist.

photos definitely not taken in Houston!

krysten ritter on starz...

2010-04-29T07:05:00.000-07:00

Have you seen her new show Gravity yet? It's kind of dark, but I think I like it.

click here to watch the first two episodes.

WASP 101...

2010-04-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

semi bologna blog: WASP 101-exploring the world of classic wasp style.

Gag me with a faux silver spoon. I wish I had never stumbled upon this blog.

. Written by a 30-something, self proclaimed "wasp" with a "rambunctious dachshund" and an affinity for poorly tailored Brooks Brothers suits and cheap tassel loafers, it's sometimes hard to take these waspy fashion and lifestyle tips seriously.

I must say though, at times, I can't help but to be inspired by the fact that he does take the time out of his very busy wasp schedule to share his awesomely bad and plaid tips with us.

This post is one of my favorites. This guy actually took the time while getting dressed for his great aunt's funeral to share his super amazing style secrets with us. Classy 101.

If you have few more moments to spare, you should check out my friend Jonas' perfectly preppy fashion blog here. He kind of knows what he is talking about.

and click here to explore more on the 12 styles of the American Man.

image source via wasp 101

tgif: musical inspiration = LOTUS

2010-04-23T12:54:00.000-07:00

We went to see Lotus last night at Wired Live and the show was AMAZING.
I am definitly kicking myself this morning for not having my camera with me-I didn't bring it because I thought we'd surely be fighting a crowd. Some crazy crowd-there seemed to be only 50 or so fans at the show. Mind you, this was verrry happy group of fans-especially since we had the band all to ourselves, but a huge surprise since Lotus sells out in most all other U.S. cities.

Houston, we have a problem! Get with the program and spread the Lotus love.

We NEED them to return. and soon.

p.s. you can listen to more from them here.

happiest of weekends to you all!

a toast to mother earth...

2010-04-22T18:56:00.000-07:00

happy earth day everybody!

here are a few fun organic cocktail recipes to help you celebrate.

cheers!

GAIL SORRONDA & ALCHEMY arrival...

2010-04-21T11:15:00.000-07:00

I am pretty sure my Australian gift de Gail Sorronda magic is coming in the mail today. This headband is going to give me some sort of special powers, I can feel it.

next on my list is this matching exotic lash mask, because I will be able to wear it to so many places.

yes.

missed connections & sophie blackall...

2010-04-20T07:55:00.000-07:00

Messages in bottles, smoke signals, letters written in the sand; the modern equivalents are the funny, sad, beautiful, hopeful, hopeless, poetic posts on Missed Connections websites. Every day hundreds of strangers reach out to other strangers on the strength of a glance, a smile or a blue hat. Their messages have the lifespan of a butterfly. I'm trying to pin a few of them down.-S.B.

Words from Sopie Blackall, a brilliant illustrator who gathers her inspiration from her local craigslist "missed connections" section.

take a look...

- m4w - 23 (L train)

How did you get those bruises? I wouldn't let anything happen to you. You were reading some book, and taking notes. I read a book once.

- m4w

We shared a bear suit at an apartment party on Saturday night.

I asked for your number and you gave it to me, but somehow I don't have an area code written down. I had a great time talking with you, and I don't trust Chance enough to wait until I see you in the elevators...

-m4m (East Village)

Phoenix w/crutches

I would love to carry you around piggy back until you can walk again...

– m4w – 24

You wore an awesome color changing dress to the BBQ on Skillman Ave in Williamsburg, but someone spilled wine on it.

You left too quickly...I'd like to see you again.

-w4m -22 (williamsburg)

i bought you that milkshake
you just didn't realize it.

aren't these great?!

you can check out sophie's blog here.

you can purchase her prints and originals here.

and p.s. just found Houston's "missed connections" section here.
I was going to post only one of my favorites, but now there are just too many.
Here a a few "inspirational" entries that leave me painting plenty of pictures in my mind,
in no particular order...

m4m Nieman Marcus-25

kemah walmart m4w

escalantes-cheese dip (woodway)

really, it was all perfect-burrito love at freebirds

romance!

I adore you, hamburger of mine...

2010-04-19T16:30:00.000-07:00

I'll gladly pay you Tuesday, for a hamburger today.

-J. Wellington Wimpy

Anybody remember this guy? He was one of my childhood favorites. Wimpy loved hamburgers.
Wimpy loved hamburgers so much, he was rarley seen without holding/eating a huge tray of them.
My hero.
With old Wimpy's devotion fresh in my mind, Saturday was all about the hamburger.

This Saturday's stop was at Lankford Grocery, which I've been to many times before. I can safely say that they have one of the best burgers in Houston (right in line with Rudyard's and Good Co. Taqueria).
I usually go for the Old Fashion w/ cheese, but this day was all about trying something new.
We were there for the Firehouse Burger.

exhibit A:

looks harmless, right?

After watching Guy Fieri get through one of these a few weeks ago on this episode of Diners, Drive Ins, and Dives, I've been dying to try.
And man was I dying when I took my first bite. This burger was stacked with jalepenos and covered in cayenne butter and homemade habenero sauce. Involuntary tears were rolling down my face within seconds.
Holey moley was this thing HOT. The spice factor and heat of this thing was seriously no joke.

Guy Fieri's review: It's kind of like licking the volcano in flavor town.

(yes, he really did say this.)

My review: This burger was so hot, I think the devil definitly made it himself.

(just kidding, actually I'm pretty sure it was Mrs. Edith Lankford Prior who made it.)

Too hot or not, it was still a whole lot of exciting pain and flavor for $5.50.
So if you reaaaally like spice like I do, I'd say to go for it.

p.s. I just found out that they grow their own habeneros out back, just to make sure that they are hot enough.
now that's devotion.

photo source here.

t.g.i.f.: it's automatic

2010-04-16T18:02:00.000-07:00

Nothing like a little Zoot Woman to ease into the weekend with. Ten years and counting and this song still hasn't worn out it's welcome with me.

I hope you have a lovely,lovely weekend my twwwelve lovely readers!

and p.s. I am a little curious as to whom the other hundred or so glorious readers are that I see visiting daily-please feel free to follow so I can see your pretty faces!
;)

I heart I R O...

2010-04-15T11:04:00.000-07:00

The entire I R O line is basically everything that I want to to be wearing right now.

In other news, I am very excited for this weekend. Not one wedding to attend, not one birthday party, not one planned social gathering. Just free as a bird to do what I please.

Pretty good feeling I'd say.

and p.s. sorry for the briefness in content this week. my laptop of 6 years is on it's last and final run.

and in order to get any blood pumping through this technically vintage p.o.s., I have to prop it up on my lap -(with feet pressed firmly against the top of the coffee table) while applying just the right amount of pressure with my right leg in order to keep the charger in place. Have a mental image? Sounds fun right?

Quite exhausting.

Maybe I shouldn't have spent my last few dollars on that michael kors bag yesterday.

Priorities.

the perfect beach tee...

2010-04-13T21:45:00.000-07:00

quit your job.

buy a ticket.

get a tan.

fall in love.

never return.

A great early Christmas present idea,

don't you think?

I ain't never seen nothin wrong with a little Christmas in July!

Pacman & the real world...

2010-04-12T14:55:00.000-07:00

I sure hope that Pacman isn't a people eater!

So fun.

I always love the wackiness going on over at Color Me Katie.

Bethenny Frankel & the Skinny Girl Margarita!

2010-04-09T08:28:00.000-07:00

I never ever thought I'd be guilty of watching Bravo's "Real Housewives" until the New York season aired.

And I have to say, it's all Bethenny Frankel's fault. I love, love, LOVE her. She may be neurotic to some, but I find her one liners to be priceless. I mean, everyone still has a little "roller girl" in them riiiiight?

So besides my love for skinny girl's one liners, I think I may love her even more for her

Skinny Girl Margarita. For a frequent margarita lover like myself, this concoction is genius!

And even better, you can now buy the Skinny Girl Mix at Spec's.

Watch the video below to find out how to make the perfect Skinny Girl Margarita.

Team Bethenny all the way!

and p.s. I wonder if Kate knows about these....

Probably not, but I don't think we need to tell her.

tgif!

Dear Summer,

2010-04-08T12:58:00.000-07:00

Can you please wait at least two more months to visit, pretty please?
I'd really like to look good for you, but you have decided to heat up Houston a wee bit earlier this year. If you could grant me this one wish, I promise to work out extra hard for you, ok?

Besides the fact that the Sun has decided to blanket this city earlier this year, here are my top 3 reasons to get my fitness on.

1.Becca and I went to the bar last night.

2. I would really like to make/eat these sea salt brownies...

3. And lastly-and most importantly, I would really like to sunbathe beachside with a little bit more confidence this year.

That's the plan and I'm sticking to it.

Are you guys ready?

p.s. sea salt brownie love via a cup of jo.

3rd photo source here.

because I am hungry...

2010-04-07T13:24:00.000-07:00

and these look really cool.

Radiology Food Art!

1. CT scan of a classic New York hot dog.

2. CT scan of a package of creme-filled chocolate cupcakes.

3. CT scan of a bag of cheddar cheese flavored potato chips.

4. CT scan of a Big Mac.

via radiologyart.com

Yumm, I think.

musical inspiration: claudine longet

2010-04-06T17:16:00.000-07:00

Claudine Longet

I first came across the lovely French actress Claudine Longet, alongside Peter Sellers in the 1968 movie

The Party -which btw is a fantastically hilarious movie you should all see, if you haven't already.

After hearing her sing in the movie, I quickly filed away an idea to see if she had any other singing debuts.

To no surpsise, besides being an adorable actress, Claudine was a popular singer in the 60's and 70's. So far I have downloaded two of her albums, Colours and Run Wild, Run Free. So wonderful and strangely mesmerizing. These will be on repeat in the home for a while.

See/listen to her below singing "Nothing to Lose"

très magnifique!

Happy Easter Weekend!

2010-04-02T11:26:00.000-07:00

Things I love about Easter Sunday: pretty spring dresses, seersucker suits, egg hunts, little chocolate bunnies, and of course Easter BRUNCH!

We are taking off to the Galvez this weekend to indulge in most of the above and I cannot wait.

I hope you all have a very lovely Easter weekend,

promise to eat & drink lots for me.

oh! and p.s. the delicious print above can be found here.
I also just noticed the crab is wearing a tuxedo too. How cute is that?

adorable aprons...

2010-04-01T10:08:00.000-07:00

Pretty vintage apron patterns that make me want to

put in pin curls and bake souffles and sweets asap!

I think those might even be mimosas on her tray.

I also think her friend should stop thinking and drink one.

;)

sweet image source found here.

k walker does it again...

2010-03-31T09:11:00.000-07:00

Karen Walker Spring/Summer 2010

Styles: Deep Freeze & Gee Gee Devotee

Styles:Derby Doomsday & Duper Strength

I'm not sure if it's the ad campaign that has me, or just the glasses themselves. Ither way, Karen Walker has done it again, don't you agree?

p.s. I found these while on a "pretend shopping spree" at one of my favorite online shops, maximillia.

I got to stop that.

for the love of my chucks.

2010-03-30T09:41:00.000-07:00

Presenting: The Case of Chuck Taylor vs. Ben Roberts

A request was recently made by my beloved Ben to trash my favorite, most beloved sneakers.

My trusty, oh so chic Chuck Taylors. Get this, he thinks that sporting my chuck's makes me look like a stinky ol' hipster. Sacrebleu! What did my rasberry red chucks ever do to him?

To me, this hipster connection is absolute hogwash. I mean, my 50-something year old mother still wears her chucks, and trust me, she is the furthest person on the planet to pull of looking anything close to a hipster.

So, in support of my case, I have decided to post a few pretty girls and a model or two, appropriately and very stylishly sporting their chucks.

Exhibit A.

Exhibit B.

Exhibit C.

Exhibit D.

aaaaaaaaand Exhibit E.

Ladies and gentlemen of the internets, I think I prove my case.
Viva los chucks!

and for my closing "statement", I would like to dedicate the following song to the perfect prep, my love, Mr. Ben Roberts...

:)

image source: the sartorialist & google images.

crystal castles...

2010-03-24T08:41:00.000-07:00

in Texas!

I am kind of obsessed with this home. It's located in the Heights, a historic part of Houston known for preserving it's "small town" look and feel. Neighboring mostly modest restored bungalows, it's safe to say that this home stands out. Sadly, I know little about the house and it's owners.

Doesn't it have a certain mystique to it?

Sometimes I can't help but think about the Princess of Power when I pass this place.

She-Ra would totally live there.

I wonder if there is a password and a fantastic dress code to get inside...

What do you think?

she-ra image source here.

high priced cravings...

2010-03-23T10:17:00.000-07:00

caviar blinis.

Oh my goooooodness, these things are so good. I have only had them a couple of times, as they

rarely ever grace the menu's in Houston restaurants, but I think about them a lot.

A whole lot.

Who wouldn't have dreams about tiny little pancakes topped with creme fraiche and delicious caviar?

Well, I suppose people who hate caviar, but I'm not thinking about them right now.

I've decided that one night this week, I will follow this easy blini recipe, purchase this tasty (yet super affordable) caviar from spec's, and cure this craving.
I. can't. wait.

and in my dream's, I will be eating this kamchatka crab leg and washing it down with salmon, roe, and an ice cold vodka shot.

image source: epicurious, cosmopolitanone.

word play...

2010-03-21T13:56:00.000-07:00

something was surely missing at mom and dad's bay house, until I saw this gem

via a cup of joe.

and a little something sweet was missing over at ben's until I saw this...

and and something was surely missing from my naked fridge until I found this!

phheeeew. all is complete again.

fun prints found here.

chapeaux show...

2010-03-17T11:34:00.000-07:00

ANTHOLOGY OF HATS by STEPHEN JONES

via vandashop: Stephen Jones spearheaded the revival of British millinery in early 1980s fashion. Using radical materials and designs that ranged from refined to whimsical, his exquisitely crafted hats encapsulated a modern and compelling mood. Today Jones’s era-defining edge continues to attract a celebrity clientele with Marilyn Manson, Kylie, Dita von Teese and Gwen Stefani all donning his hats. The roll-call of fashion designers with whom he has collaborated includes Vivienne Westwood, Jean Paul Gaultier, John Galliano for Dior, Marc Jacobs, Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons and Giles Deacon.--

(buy the book here.)

and now for a few of mr. jones' mad hats...

harper's bazzar hotlist 09

collaboration with vivienne westwood spring 09...

marie claire editorial: the american express

en vogue: posing as the madhatter, mr. jones himself...

brilliant basically.

foxy shazam!...

2010-03-12T17:03:00.001-08:00

I was listening to ktru's friday night show The Revelry Report on my ride home.
I tuned in just in time for the Foxy Shazam ticket give away and guess what?!?

I won.

Score!

We'll be singing along at House Of Blues next Thursday.

If you haven't heard them yet, check them out here.

on a side note: don't forget to bring in an old pair of jeans to The Gap for 30% off new denim purchase-lasts until Sunday.

I did this today and it was totally worth it. Again, score.

They recycle your old denim to make affordable insulation for low income homes.

Check the project out here.

bicycle love...

2010-03-11T13:16:00.001-08:00

Abici Granturismo Donna

Isn't she lovely?

I've been super busy (cough, cough) sifting through beautiful bike photos looking for some inspiration for a weekend project.

I'm thinking about temporarily giving up on the bike of my dreams

and just fixing up the old schwinn instead. Trying to decide on a nice cheery color. I love this candy apple red, but for some reason sea foam green sounds like a bright idea to me.

What do you think?

image source: let's go ride a bike.

champagne people...

2010-03-10T12:52:00.000-08:00

I just love Benny Sings. I think I had his song "coconut" on repeat for the entire summer last year.

Speaking (or typing rather) of coconuts, I had a delicious coconut margarita yesterday at 1308 cantina-the smaller less chaotic el tiempo on montrose. I had never had one before for fear that it would be too sweet, but it wasn't. It was sooooo good. They used real coconut milk to flavor, much better than a synthetic syrup. I should have taken a photo to share! Oh well, next time.

Update: I just ran across this recipe that seems to be pretty darn close to El Tiempo's. Maybe if we all start making these at home, summer will come faster.

a flapper's favorite...

2010-03-07T16:01:00.000-08:00

the bee's knees cocktail.

The Bee's Knees was a classic prohibition cocktail. Word of myth and legend is that bootleggers created this drink to hide the rank smell and taste of the "bathtub gin" that was involved. Thank the day for Tanqueray.

Here's the Bee's Knees recipe-according to me.

2oz of gin of choice

¾ oz of honey

¾ oz of fresh lemon juice

combine ingredients in shaker, add ice, & shake it up for 10 seconds. serve in chilled cocktail glasses, add a lemon wedge if you wish, & drink!

and p.s. I recently came across this neat group in Boston,
Ladies United For The Preservation of Endangered Cocktails.
I think Houston needs one of these too, yeah?

image source: flickr

textile and plinio sandalio...

2010-03-04T12:12:00.000-08:00

hungry for lunch and waiting for an appt., I decided to catch up on a few of my local go to food blogs. Today I came across bakin 'n' bacon - a blog from Plinio Sandalio,

pastry chef at Textile.

I've already heard/read so many amazing things about Textile, but sadly have not been yet.

After spending enough time on Plinio's brilliant blog, I have no choice but to try.

And if finances don't allow me to try the "menu prestige" anytime soon,

I hope to at least stop in and have one of Sandalio's insanely interesting desserts.

Just look at these creations...

bacon fried brownies, bourbon pudding, ancho chili ice cream

coconut pound cake, avocado ice cream, horchata, cilantro, citrus

fried corncake, hot dog ketchup, yellow american mustard ice cream.

oh man.

image source found here.

Angelique Gioldasis...

2010-03-02T22:14:00.000-08:00

is my bff, my hero, and my personal ray of sunshine.
She's just filled with so much peace and love-anybody that has ever met her knows this.
These days she is crazy busy traveling the world doing her pretty people thing so we don't get to see each other as much, but when we finally do get our precious one on one time...we don't miss a beat.

The other night while getting ready, my roommate Becca started banging on my door
-which at first scared the heck out of me.

was there a fire in the building? no.

was publishers clearing house at the door? ummm, no.

was Angelique in a full page ad in this month's People?

YES!
waaaay to go babes!

Angie works mainly in the European market, so this surprise tabloid appearance was a special thing. Angie, just think about how many other shameful readers and bored housewives will get to see your face this week!

So, in honer of this little Loehmann's debut, I'd like to share a few more lovely photos of her lovely self...

yeah!

so proud of you.

p.s. these editorial images came from a personal stash, I'll be sure to figure out sources with a.g. a.s.a.p.

gnarly knits...

2010-03-02T06:26:00.001-08:00

from Jemma Skyes.

"The dress is called “The Elizabeth” and is entirely hand-knitted in 100% by Jemma Sykes certified organic wool. It was created for ethical fashion label Butcher Couture and the images in the post are from the album artwork of Maria Mena- Cause and Effect. It was displayed at Harrods until the dress was auctioned off at a breast cancer charity event"

I am now sort of obsessed with this dress and was hoping to see more from ms. skyes,

but I can't seem to find much else. Booooo.

It's just so beautiful, isn't it?

update: I did find a little more on "the elizabeth" over at KNITkicks.

image source: here

diy chandeliers...

2010-03-01T08:28:00.000-08:00

brilliant design by Bec Brittain.

-the man also responsible for giving myself (and many, many others) a more "organized shopping experience" at the daytime chic mother ship that is anthropologie.

After reading the instructions myself and glancing at the materials involved, this project looks like a HUGE practice in patience...but the grand outcome might definitely be worth it.

Just wish I had my own somewhat stark/mad mod dwelling to put it in. Sigh. Someday.

download instructions here.

source: LINDSEY ADELMAN STUDIO

lousy day...

2010-02-25T11:24:00.000-08:00

Oh lousy day.
I'm having an awfully bad day today so I decided instead of taking things out on ritas or worse,
I'd have a quick look at some old photos and things that always make me smile.

the prettiest carousel I have ever seen.

funny friends to be funny with.

sandy hands and cold coconut drinks.

sunny breakfasts.

making and eating homemade christmas cookies.

lunches at luby's with my great aunt connie. she was mostly blind, but somehow would always catch me "saltin' my salt".

and most of all, my lovely friends. Couldn't live without you guys.

young me, now me...

2010-02-23T09:24:00.000-08:00

YOUNG ME, NOW ME

So fun!

I'm going to flip through some albums and find mine tonight.

source: swiss miss

west fest repost...

2010-02-22T12:03:00.000-08:00

sign the petition! spread the word!

-the article below was posted by Joe Mathlete via 29-95.com

The Westheimer Art Festival / Westheimer Street Festival / WestFest / “That thing in Montrose with all the bands and art stuff” has been around in one form or another since the late ‘70s, changing and evolving and eventually growing into this past November’s two-day Westheimer Block Party. Free Press Houston has been shepherding the event’s current incarnation in recent years, but the logistics of running an ever-ballooning music and arts festival in the middle of Montrose without city cooperation became insurmountable, and FPH editor Omar Afra announced that WestFest would not be returning unless the City of Houston agreed to shut down the streets.

That’s where you, the local music and art-loving proletariat of Houston, come in. Afra got then-mayoral candidate Annise Parker to pledge her support on video, but recognizing the road to blocking the roads is a bit more involved than securing a campaign promise, the Free Press has set up this petition. Parker’s backing was contingent on a “demonstrated support from within the community,” so if you’re interested in the return of a genuine Houston cultural institution and you have forty seconds, feel free to demonstrate some support. ----

As I was searching google images from west fests past, this one of myself came up on the first page. I'll never forget manning the dunking booth with my best buddie Brooklynn Hood. These two crazy kids kept coming back for more dunking damage-and that was some scary water. So funny.

happy west fest 2007 - photo by deney terrio

here's a few more taken with my camera...

my booth buddies chris beekman, & matt messinger

my support team: jarod, brook, & steph.

& my bellini break with messinger.

Fun times had by all.

2010-02-19T06:45:00.000-08:00

Good morning LOVELIES!

(-haha, that was for you Becca.)

I am so excited for tonight, that I couldn't sleep in. Really wish I would of, but here I am on my 3rd cup of coffee and having my second cookie of the day. Here to share some sweet Kate Micucci videos that have been keeping me company this morning...

TGIF!

lady gaga and...

2010-02-18T09:49:00.000-08:00

Jem!

lady gaga and minnie!

lady gaga and charlie brown...

lady gaga and judy jetson

and just for fun...

Lindsey Lohan and a skeleton.
image source:google images

be there or be square...

2010-02-16T08:46:00.000-08:00

Dear 7 faithful followers,

This message is in reference to my art show at Boheme on Friday night.

It will be oh so nice to have most of my closest there.

I sincerely hope you can make it.

dirt cheap diy art...

2010-02-15T08:39:00.000-08:00

using TOILET PAPER ROLLS!

Kind of looks like a smaller scale installation a la anthropologie, right?

Materials:

Toilet Paper rolls

Scissors

White glue

Stapler

Paint + brushes

Glitter

Laundry pins

Steps:

1. Crush paper roll

2. Cut into approximately 5 equal parts don’t have to be exact

3. Place the rolls on a flat surface creating a desired pattern. spend time trying different compositions and patterns.

4. Glue where rolls are touching, hold with laundry pins to dry. You may use a stapler as an alternative, what ever is easier.

5. You may paint and add sparkles. Sprinkle the glitter on the wet paint, this way it will sticks and you wont need any glue.

6. You may expend the pattern in to an organic cell growth. The challenge is when to say STOP.

I'm going to make mine huuuuge!

source:design sponge

mardi gras...

2010-02-11T18:02:00.000-08:00

“Who got da baby?”

This weekend, we're taking off to Galveston to see lots of revelers and throw lots of beads. Saturday night, we'll peel ourselves off the streets to get cleaned up for the annual

Mardi Gras Ball

at the Tremont-where I plan on eating and drinking and dancing allll night long.

Hopefully our cameras survive the festivities!

Below are a few vintage photos of Mardi Gras past....

some things never change.

img src:flickr

endless melodic entertainment...

2010-02-11T14:56:00.000-08:00

click here for the fun.

click here and here

to hear what other people have come up with.

image src:the black apple

vulgur valentines ideas...

2010-02-10T16:26:00.000-08:00

for the boy!

ribcage valentine.

dirty diy plushies.

morgue chocolates.

or you could just take him out for a McGangBang.

polaroid porter...

2010-02-08T22:16:00.000-08:00

The Porter Hovey Polaroid Project

tile floor, pastis, little west 12th street + 9th ave, meat packing district, new york

water buffalo, darr, atlantic ave. + hoyt street, boreum hill, brooklyn

sardines under an umbrella, ortaköy, istantabul, turkey

public restroom sink, bedford ave. + south 10th, south williamsburg, brooklyn

marlow + sons, broadway + berry, williamsburg, brooklyn

rarrrrr, darr, boreum hill, brooklyn

dream, hope street, williamsburg, brooklyn

doll, darr, atlantic ave + hoyt street, boreum hill, brooklyn

see the rest of the project here

see more of her work here.

what to bake, what to bake...

2010-02-08T15:57:00.000-08:00

bleeding heart cupcakes!

I was planning on baking some heart shaped cookies for valentine's day, but these bittersweet sweets just looked like way more fun. Here's hoping they taste good too.

bleeding heart recipe:

20 glass marbles or small balls of tinfoil
1 recipe batter for White Cupcakes
2 to 3 cups of red jelly/jam of choice (I'm going with raspberry)
1 recipe Vanilla Butter Cream Frosting
red and blue food coloring
pastry bag and medium round tip (optional)

1. Line cupcake tins with paper liners. Fill the liners two-thirds full with the batter. Place 1 marble or tinfoil ball between each liner and the tin. This will make a dent in your cupcake when it bakes to make it heart-shaped. Bake the cupcakes as directed in the recipe . If you are using marbles, be careful when removing the cupcakes from the tins because the marbles will be very hot.

2. With a small paring knife, cut out a circle about the size of a dime in the center of each cupcake, going about two thirds of the way in. Pull the little plug of cake out. Cut off the top of this piece (about 1/2 inch thick) and eat or discard the bottom. Use a teaspoon or a squeeze bottle to fill the hole partway with the strawberry jelly "blood." Put the little cake plug back in. Continue with the rest of the hearts.

3. Put one third of the frosting into two separate bowls. Color one bowl of frosting with the red food coloring. Tint the other bowl of the frosting blue. Tint the remaining two thirds pink.

4. Frost the cupcakes with the pink frosting. Make it super smooth by dipping a butter or frosting/palette knife in a bowl of hot water and smoothing it over the top. With the pastry bag or a knife, use the red and blue frosting to make veins on the hearts.

xoxo yeah!

recipe via Hey There, Cupcake!

direct to dvd GOLD...

2010-02-04T10:27:00.000-08:00

Brittany Murphy in The Ramen Girl

tagline: In food as in life, sometimes the missing ingredient is love.

Yes! How have I not seeeeeeeeen this?! It's like the bastard child of The Karate Kid/Julia & Julia...
and starring Brittany Murphy!!!

I'm guessing Amazon will be the only place to obtain this direct to dvd gem.

I just thought Ms. Murphy was such a doll-and not to mention, a true thespian.

That being said, I'll pretty much watch anything with her in it...even a romantic/comedy/drama about mastering a bowl of noodles.

Below: a few beautiful photos of our beloved Brittany...

rest in peace bb.

update: you can rent The Ramen Girl here.

image source:google images

seeing red...

2010-02-03T21:19:00.000-08:00

If Blair Waldorf can do it, well so can I damn it.

Me thinks I'll wear mine manana.

Yeah!

source: google images

avatar blues...

2010-02-02T08:48:00.000-08:00

Via CNN: James Cameron's completely immersive spectacle "Avatar" may have been a little too real for some fans who say they have experienced depression and suicidal thoughts after seeing the film because they long to enjoy the beauty of the alien world Pandora.

Wow.

Now for some uplifting movie reviews...

"That's all I have been doing as of late, searching the Internet for more info about 'Avatar.' I guess that helps. It's so hard I can't force myself to think that it's just a movie, and to get over it, that living like the Na'vi will never happen. I think I need a rebound movie,"

"Ever since I went to see 'Avatar' I have been depressed. Watching the wonderful world of Pandora and all the Na'vi made me want to be one of them. I can't stop thinking about all the things that happened in the film and all of the tears and shivers I got from it,"

"When I woke up this morning after watching Avatar for the first time yesterday, the world seemed ... gray. It was like my whole life, everything I've done and worked for, lost its meaning," Hill wrote on the forum. "It just seems so ... meaningless. I still don't really see any reason to keep ... doing things at all. I live in a dying world."

Hmmm...

Suggestions for battling post Avatar blues:

Get high and watch Pocahontas, and or Fern Gully

Give eHarmony a go,

and if that doesn't kick it...

try Web MD.

click here to watch a Fern Gully/Avatar mash up.

click here to see Disney's Pocahontas chopped and screwed into JC's Avatar.

happy feet...

2010-02-01T16:28:00.000-08:00

Who wouldn't want eco friendly feet?

Just read up on the collaboration between Vivienne Westwood Anglomania and Melissa shoes.

Besides being super cute, turns out they're all made from recycled and recyclable plastic.

I had seen these bad boys before, but didn't realize that I could legitimize my purchase with mother nature in my mind!

Wouldn't any of the above be pretty sweet to sport on Valentine's day?!

I'ma go with yes.

source: i don't like mondays

tgif: redbox and things to the rescue!

2010-01-29T13:02:00.000-08:00

Being sick in bed for more than a day can be very, very boring.

Thank goodness for redbox, the interweb, and

How I Met Your Mother re-runs.

We watched Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs last night.

(I might have also watched it a few more times today.)

If you didn't get a chance to see it in 3D at the moovays and you enjoy being tortured by images of delicious donuts and things falling from the sky, then you should definitely rent it.

here's one of my favorite scenes...

In other sick day news,

I also found this hilarious website via The Foodinista

These new Time Warp videos from the Discover Channel.

and this new "Upular" remix from Australian dj Pogo.

snowballs!