Thursday, February 28, 2013

Top of the World








There are some moments in life that just take your breath away, making you feel like such a tiny part of this vast world we live in. Sitting at the top of this cliff rightfully named "The Top of the World" in Laguna was one of those moments. I could see the ocean in front of me, mountains to my south, and spots of beautiful green landscaping then dry, desert ground in between. How often can you say that? Not very often.

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Avocado, Mozzarella, and Tomato Salad



Behold! A concoction of yummy things found in the fridge and thrown together for a pretty killer side dish or even a main course when served with a toasted pita or flat bread (Carbs not pictured because we gobbled this up too fast).

You will need:
1 ripe avocado, diced
1 tomato, diced
Half of a small round of fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
Red onion, however much you would like
Drizzle of balsamic vinegar
Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
Salt and Pepper
Basil (if you have it, which I did not)

Put all of your diced ingredients together, stir together with your drizzles, place atop your flat bread and enjoy!


Monday, February 25, 2013

Manicure Monday


Essie's Jamacia Me Crazy
Monday has started off with a bang and as Monday's go, I can't say that very often but I must say, I like it. Hit the ground running and don't stop. Let's keep up this fast pace for the week, I've got a lot to accomplish: finish my taxes,  move into a new apartment, set up internet and cable, and on and on it goes.

Friday, February 22, 2013

Casual Friday


I am embarrassed to report that is has been a long time since I have been able to sit down and dedicate a day to enjoying a good book. This is a favorite pastime of mine, getting lost in a book, preferably while outside enjoying some sunny weather, and just totally relaxing. I had one of those days on Monday on my day off and I plan to have a repeat this weekend wearing some sort of variation of the above ensemble. The folks at the O.C. library are going to love me.

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Laid Back and in Waiting



Sweatshirt: Banana Republic, Scarf: Thrifted
I have been having a very casual week this week and I know this to be true because I am sporting my glasses. Let me be clear, casual in this context really means lazy. Or maybe more than lazy, I am in an "in-between" phase. Temporary. Standing still, waiting.
I am in my current apartment waiting for the official apartment I'll be moving into to be cleaned and painted. I have been trying to get by without buying groceries as well as trying to ignore my giant stack of boxes in the dining room. It will be a good story to tell my future children one day right? I can see it already-"Back in my day, we had to share a room with 2 other girls and 5 girls shared a small kitchen but we didn't care! We lived in California!" Good story huh? Ya, let's go with that.

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Girl Scout Salute



Shirt: F21, Shoes: Sperry, Watch: The Loft
Every year I always manage to have Girl Scout cookies. I don't even usually have to buy them seeing as how I do not have any young females in my life, most of my cousins have grown up and out of the scouts, and I do not live in a neighborhood so door-to-door salesmanship is out of the question. And yet, somehow, some way, I just found myself eating some thin mints in the lunch room. Having cute little girls sell delicious cookies is just about as genius a marketing scheme as it gets. So thank you, fellow office worker, for caving, I am sure very easily, to some sweet little girl with a brown sash and then for sharing the wealth and allowing me to have a couple of thin mints.

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

For the Birds


Shirt: TJ Maxx, Jeans: Gap
I realized after my post yesterday that maybe I should show my whole outfit instead of just a quick glimpse because I really enjoyed it. I am finding that this sleeveless top with its bird print is super versatile in Southern California and perfect for layering, which is the only way to go in this part of the country. And the skimmer length jean is quickly becoming a favorite. I was warm sitting in the sun but then when I took a stroll to the harbor, it was chilly by the water and a light jacket was perfect over this. As you can see, I am pushing for Spring to officially arrive so the more pastel vibes I can send out, the better.

Monday, February 18, 2013

Manicure Monday




It's President's Day and I have the day off, my best friend from college is in town, sun is shining and I've already finished one book today with plenty of time to start another. This Monday is gunning for a medal and if I ever had such an award to give, today would be the day.

Friday, February 15, 2013

Me and my Belongings



My stuff's here! My stuff's here! No more wearing the same items of clothing in creative ways, no more trips to the beach without sandals, no more sleeping without my bear...everything is here! Wahoo!

That was me on Wednesday morning. But alas, my excitement was a bit short lived because everything has to stay in the boxes until the final move next weekend. Well, most everything. You better believe I had the moving man leave my wardrobe boxes within easy reach and my shoe and purse box is right on top and has already been opened. I am allowing myself to get items out as needed but most everything is staying in its temporary cardboard home. I have to say though, the excitement all of my worldly possessions has brought me is probably not healthy since that whole "the best things in life aren't things" theory is supposed to be a good one but listen, sometimes things are nice to have too, okay?

And even my bike is here and he has a bike friend out on the patio. I can't wait to use this long weekend to cruise around on those two wheels and explore, explore, explore! Hooray for the weekend and all of my belongings joining me in California!

Thursday, February 14, 2013

I am Feeling the Love







With my recent move, I am still feeling a bit temporary since I have been half living out of a suitcase and then sharing a bedroom for the past 3 weeks. It has been a lot of fun bonding with my roommates in this way but sometimes you just want a little space for yourself. Case in point: a space of my own would have come in handy last night as I ended up crying in bed while reading these amazing notes from my family. My sister tucked a secret box full of fun goodies and girly stuff in with my belonings before they left Ohio. I am telling you what, I have been just plain spoiled lately. This fun "Surprise!" box totally made my whole week. I had already been excited about getting some candy and more Valentine's in a package from my sister and parents the day before so how rad is that?! And to brag some more about how much love has been coming my way lately, my aunt sent me a totally random congratulations on moving gift over the weekend. So on this Valentine's Day, or week rather, I have been reminded of just how special random acts of kindness are and how love really does make the world go round and how having it in your life is one special blessing. So go out there and love people! Be happy and spread the love.

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Tan and Black





Top: JCP, Pants: Tommy Hilfiger




I have never been one to wear much tan but while doing some after holiday shopping, I spotted this top and it basicallyy begged me to bring it home. Practically leapt off the hanger I tell you! And a home it has found in my closet. I forgot about it's lovely lace and almost gold color amidst my move but I rediscovered it in the closet this morning, ripped off the tags, and was feeling great in this outfit all day. I love how clothes can make you feel sometimes.

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Sunshine Pants

Pants and Shirt: Gap, Shoes: Macy's

Bright pants for a bright and sunny day. Because how can you stay tired and in a groggy mood when every time you look down, your eyes are hit with neon yellow. At least that was my plan when I pulled these suckers on this morning and I have to say, there really is a method to my madness some days.

Monday, February 11, 2013

Manicure Monday


This is my desk. Do you feel like you are in a library? Or maybe an old-school law firm? Or studying for finals in the 1940's? Because each day when I turn on my lamp, that is what I think. I like my green glass, gold base, pull-the-chain-to-turn-on lamp and with my gold rings and Sally Hansen "Grey Area" polish, I am feeling very studious today.

Friday, February 8, 2013

High Five for Friday


{The tall palm trees are my favorite, even when the sun's not out.}
{This is my 3rd roommate Ebbi. She likes to snuggle.}
{As if Junior Mints could get any better, they go and make them heart-shaped. Sold.}
{Obsessed with my new boots from F21. Scooped up for only $10.}
{M&M's to fuel my ongoing California activity list.}
Tomorrow we have a birthday to celebrate in the house and plans are being made to go to the Venice Beach/Santa Monica area. This is actually one place I have been to before, on my very first visit to California on my 21st birthday so I am by no means an expert but I am looking forward to returning to a place I have seen before and see what I all remember. Plus getting cocktails on a rooftop lounge is not too shabby either.  

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Hola La Jolla



Here are some pictures from my weekend excursion to La Jolla Beach. They have seals there, like real live seals, just hanging out in their natural habitat. Real cool. Except they are a bit stinky but let me just tell you, they are living the life! Seal Itinerary: play in the water with friends, sunbathe on the rocks, take naps for long periods of time. I mean come on! Who wouldn't love to get in on that action?

It was a little overcast on Saturday but it was still lovely and we ate lunch outside at a street cafe and climbed some rocks and looked at the waves. There seems to be an endless supply of activities around these parts and I will continue to take you along with me as I explore the left coast.

Wednesday, February 6, 2013

Dots and Palms







Shirt: Gap, Skirt: Macy's, Necklace: Borrowed
Today the sunshine decided to make my ankles and feet disappear in my pictures as well as make my hair look blonde. No need to fear, I am still a natural brunette and all of my lower limbs are still with me. I just wanted to be outside for a bit to enjoy the sun and the palm trees in the courtyard and this is what I wore while doing so.