Posts from — November 2008

Today, I’m grateful for:

-my healthy family
-rainy weather on Thanksgiving
-chocolate lava cake, my heated mattress pad, red nail polish
-sharing a home with my wonderful boyfriend
-the beatles, peppermint ice cream, cashmere socks
-girlfriends that are hilarious and pretty
-sunday morning pancakes, crossword puzzles, big coffee cups
-surprises (my boyfriend randomly sent this to my office)
-my job, bubble baths, magazines
-the love and support from the readers of my blog

Since we don’t really have leaves covering the ground in L.A., I make an effort to jump into every pile I come across here in Mill Valley.   Thankfully, I brought along my favorite riding boots that I’ve been practically sleeping in since my arrival.  They’re just wide enough so that I can casually throw them on over jeans, but still manage to look polished.  My Steve Madden boots are no longer available, but this pair is a ridiculously similar alternative with all the necessary elements (minimal heel, hits right below the knee, buttery leather).

Vintage Aviators, Forever 21 Scarf and Watch, H&M Top, Foley + Corinna Bag, BDG Jeans

Despite the laid back nature of Thanksgiving, it’s always a tricky holiday for which to dress.  Of course, you want to look nice, but given the four extra pounds you’ll be acquiring in an afternoon, comfort is of utmost importance.  Since only Joey Tribbiani can get away with wearing maternity pants to the table, here’s my idea of a perfect outfit for Thursday afternoon.

1. Sheer Floral Woven Blouse, $19.90.  Dark enough to hide spills, but in a breathable fabric with a cheery pattern.
2. Miu Miu Jeweled Satin Cuff, $294.  This sparkly bracelet will illuminate the whole table during dinner.
3. Flannel Lantern Skirt, $70.  I love this slimming skirt that can be inched up as the belly expands.
4. Marc by Marc Jacobs Glossy Bow Hairband, $39.  A cute hair accessory that will also help keep food out of your mouth.
5. Maloles Pleated Bow Ballet Flat, $230.  These crinkled leather ballet flats are not only cute, but also comfortable for running around the kitchen.

What is your take on Thanksgiving attire?  Do you roll to the table in sweats or satin?

Just the idea of a bustling airport makes my skin crawl.  The long lines, screaming babies and contagious passengers are enough to make me consider opening a can of Spam in lieu of going home for Thanksgiving turkey.  Luckily, I was able to fly out yesterday and missed all of the holiday bustle.  For those that do have yet to reach your final destinations, I’ve included a few of my favorite items that make traveling that much easier.

1. Indian Jasmine Travel Candle, $12:  Scents are such a nice way to acclimate yourself with a new place and this subtle, floral fragrance burns for 35 hours and won’t weigh down your bag.
2. Pony Hair Luggage Tags, $19.95:  To avoid wrestling with three people that have the same black suitcase, these colorful tags are a chic way to set your bag apart.
3. Travel Alarm Clocks, $13: These miniatures alarm clocks are a cheerful way to keep track of the time, no matter the time zone.
4. Sky Umbrella, $48:  You’ll never regret bringing an umbrella, but the frizzy hair and damp sweaters that await you if you don’t are simply not worth the gamble.  Tibor Kalman’s umbrella reminds you that clear skies are just around the corner.
5. Acrylic Pots, $3.50: I love the versatility of these clear pots that can store anything from loose earrings to an extra supply of Advil.
6. Altec Lansing inMotion Portable Audio System for iPod, $119.99:  There’s nothing better than listening to your own playlist when you’re away from home (this system was rated the best on CNET for travel MP3 speaker systems).
7. Travel Sleep Mask, $19.95: One of the more disturbing revelations while on vacation is to find that your room floods with light in the morning.  This silk, pucci-inspired mask is easy to slip in your bag and will provide hours of restful sleep.
8. Patent Ballet Flats, $17.50: These ballet flats are not only sleek and uber-comfortable, but they can also be folded up and thrown in a purse for those times you may not last the night propped up in 4 inch heels.

What are your travel necessities?

Tomorrow I’m heading home to Mill Valley for Thanksgiving.    Here are some of the things I can’t wait to do:

-Bundle up with layers since the weather will be legitimately crisp.
-Sip hot cocoa at Mama’s Royal Cafe.
-Visit the library.  Tucked among the trees, it has an almost storybook setting.
-Hike Mount Tamalpais in the morning.
-Meet friends at Joe’s Taco Lounge for their amazing enchiladas.
-Jump in the hot tub at night (you can actually see stars in Northern California).

Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Dress, Forever 21 Belt and Watch, XIV Pave Diamond Rings, Hue Tights, Madden Girl ‘Mylo’ Shoes, Rebecca Minkoff Morning After Bag.

Textures are exceedingly important to me. In fact, I barely noticed the vibrant fuchsia color of this dress the first time I saw it. Instead, I was mesmerized by the lacy intertwining patterns that were reminiscent of Mexican paper flags. The scalloped hem adds a flirty touch and I love how the intentionally loose strings keep it from looking too saccharine. Paired with all black accessories, I managed to incorporate one of my favorite Summer dresses in late November.

This year, we’re having a big Thanksgiving dinner, about which I couldn’t be more excited.  Sadly, since my only talents in the kitchen include getting in the way and excessive sampling, I’ve been assigned table duty.  After I got over the initial embarrassment while reading multiple ‘how to let kids decorate’ articles, I actually found some legitimate decorating ideas that might just steal the turkey’s thunder.

 I love the idea of incorporating fruit at the table and pears have such a lovely shape.

 Sure I can’t peel potatoes, but I’m really good at collecting leaves.  This is a simple, yet colorful way to add a bit of Autumn at the table.

 I’ve pricked my feet on these little guys hundreds of times.  I’ve finally found a great way to celebrate their spiky shape.

The last time I worked with felt was when I made clothes for my troll dolls in 2nd grade.  This time around, it looks a lot easier and I love the soft texture it brings.

All of the little leaves add a great architectural element while still looking chic and elegant.

All images courtesy of marthastewart.com