cSd Art & Design

Thursday Threads:

2012-02-02T08:10:00.000-08:00

Oh how they have done it again! J.Crew's Spring 2012 collection has taken my breath away...and could also easily walk away with my entire bank account if they tried! I confess that I did spend my birthday money on two of these items and the pave link bracelet that I've been coveting. I'm actually wearing it today. So here are some of my favorites from their Spring 2012 collection.

This stunning sequin skirt also comes in a gorgeous pink...but there is something organically beautiful about the green. It is pricey at $695.00...but it's smashing!

This striped bracelet is such fun for stacking. I think the colors scream for spring garden parties! It's only $42.00 so easily can be integrated into your collection of baubles.

This is yet another beautiful bracelet to stack this spring. You may be seeing a trend with me in the choice of colors. This beauty is $60.00 and can be dressed up or down quite easily.

This lovely is on my wrist right now! When you look it up on the website, this "Daiquiri Ice" color is one of the other options as the one that they showcase is a pretty "Citron" color. For you J.Crew aficionadas out there like me, you may recognize the frog clasp from Spring 2007. Anyhow it's rebirth 5 years later is very refreshing with the light links. Having the original in my collection and owning this today (and wearing it) I can tell you the new version is lighter in weight and will be more comfortable to wear all day long. It too can be yours for $68.00

The frog clasp necklace is the bracelet's partner in crime. Normally I wouldn't wear the matching set of it...BUT I am stacking my bracelet with the pave today. As I said, this necklace is MUCH lighter than the 2007 version. It's honestly something I know I will treasure forever. Knowing how amazing J.Crew's quality is, I can say that the $128.00 investment in this necklace is worth it if you are looking for a statement necklace to have in perpetuity.

This shot is what first attracted me to the bracelet. I saw it on Pinterest and fell in LOVE with this look. As you can see the blue and greens combined with the right doses of gold are spectacular!

Anything catch your eye so far this spring?

Wardrobe Wednesday: Here Fishy Fishy

2012-02-01T18:38:00.000-08:00

Happy Wednesday. I know it's late in the day---but it's been a LONG day! As promised...here is what I wore...
1. Ray Ban eyeglasses
2. Small bling earrings
3. Acrylic Bubble Bead Necklace, MOMA
4. Green cardigan with white knots, Banana Republic
5. Green and fish print dress with pockets, J.Crew
6. Pale Pink City Flats, Gap

I always get so many compliments on this necklace when I wear it...so I always have to thank my dear friend Ben who gave it to me for Christmas/ birthday in 2005. It's one of my favorites!

Chevron Monogram

2012-01-31T18:07:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't like a pretty chevron pattern? Who doesn't like candy colored canvases? I'm planning on doing something like this for my cousins cutie patutie kids. Do you like the chevron monogram?

Thursday Threads: Where I Come From

2012-01-26T07:04:00.000-08:00

I pretty much pride myself on NOT having a Miami accent. When I say this people then ask me, "What does a Miami accent sound like?" Well, this is it! This is what a stereotypical Miami girl sounds like, and dresses...this sums it up.

God help me, my daughter does not end up like this! Ay Dios Mio!

Wardrobe Wednesday: Birthday Fete

2012-01-25T13:20:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned on Monday, my birthday is this week. I won't tell you how old I am going to be...but if you add 17+17 you might get the right number. Anyhow--- I decided that rather than shoing you my ensemble for today---I would show you what I am going to wear to my fete.

1. One of my tiaras...I always wear a tiara on my birthday

2. Probably my 3 Kristin Pearce peark and crystal neckalces all mixed up

3. "Little Miss Birthday" T-Shirt (if it fits)

4. Ann Taylor, Silver sequins skirt

5. J.Crew, Blue Glitter Flats

I'll let you know how it goes!

xoxo

Pen and Paper Girl

2012-01-24T11:43:00.000-08:00

It's ironic. I love my smart phone...have it with me most of the day...most of the time. I love my laptop and am on it a lot...I love my iPad and use it quite a bit...yet still I have an appointment book. I have a notebook I write all my work notes in. I have a fat notebook with dividers for notes and paperwork for committees I sit on or chair.

This is a look at my calendar/appointment book for this month. I am very particular...my datebooks (whatever you call yours) MUST be a "Month-at-a-Glance" and I write in certain colors on certain days. I'm anal. I also don't PEN anything in until the day of...I don't like to see things crossed out or the use of white -out on my calendar so until the morning of, things remain in pencil.

Hello...my name is anal retentive. Nice to meet you.

Music Monday: Birthday Playlist

2012-01-23T10:55:00.000-08:00

It is here! My birthday week! I will slowly start to build my play list for the party (which will be in a baby free zone) over the course of the week...but I wanted to share some of the tunage with you all. Pitbull and Neyo collaborated on the song "Give Me Everything Tonight" and I love it. When they played it this weekend at our friend's wedding the crowd went wild...so I think it's perfect for my 17+17 birthday party!

Flo Rida (that's flow-ridah for those of you who read it Florida like the state I call home) is going on the play list with his single, "Good Feeling". I want people have a good ole' fun time at the fete.

Finally Alexandra Stan's Mr. Saxobeat will go on the list for sure! It reminds of the kind of song I would have liked to have heard in my spinning classes...when I was going to spinning classes.

Not pictured...but I am CERTAIN I will put them on... songs like...
Birthday- The Beatles
It's Your Birthday- 50 Cent
We Found Love in a Hopeless Place- Rhianna
Moves Like Jagger- Maroon 5
Domino- Jessie J

Any good song recommendations for me to add to the list?

Thursday Threads: A Little Bit of This...A Little Bit of That

2012-01-19T07:39:00.001-08:00

Hello Web Friends! I've been stuck at home caring for Mr. D...but today I am back to life, and hopefully he will be too...I mean I know why people have nannies now. Caring for home, husband, child...and and yourself all while trying to get work done and volunteer work done. It has been a bear, a pill, a plate full!

Anyhow--- I did have to go out and find my mom a birthday present. You may remember from this post that she blew out come birthday candles earlier this week. So what do you get a fashionable woman who has nearly everything she wants? Comfortable PJs is all I could think of...so while on a trip to Target to get supplies for Mr. D I hopped over to Old Navy and found a few things I liked (what's new?!)... This super cute top also comes in blue and is only $36! It's super cute as we start to transition from winter into spring as you could wear it both seasons. Skinny jeans and boots with a vest in the winter... bright red shorts and sandals in the spring. Cute!
Then I went to find my mom the right Pj's... and found this! So before we moved I had the best collection of just right soft cotton V-Neck shirts from J.Crew. Those shirts are now lost somewhere in the endless abyss that is my garage... so I've considered building the collection up again. Ladies, I think I found what with...this V-Neck T comes to you from Old Navy too. I've never looked at their T-Shirt section, but it was great. I'm actually wearing this very T today with J.Crew boyfriend khakis, an over sized white sweater from the Gap and Gold Sperry Dock Siders (cute I know) today. It's such a great shirt and comes in a great selection of colors AND it's only $9.50!

Here is something I'm COVETING...I hope I get some J.Crew gift cards for my birthday next week...because mama wants this! The classic pave link bracelet. It's on back order until next month...but I would say it's worth the wait. I would wear this alone or with my other chunky gold bracelets. Le swoon...le sigh! At $118, it's not really all that bad either.

Also at J.Crew is this cute "wildcat" print shirt. It's $98 and another great shirt to take you from winter into spring. Imagine this with a great coat in the winter, and then a cardigan in the spring? Jeans, pencil skirts, pants...dress it up, dress it down...this shirt is a winner winner chicken dinner!

Last but not least are these Cafe Capri pants from J.Crew, at $79.50 they are quite a bargain. Pair them with the wildcat shirt or even one of those V-neck tees... too too cute! I tried looking for the top they are pictured with but cannot find it on the site...have you all seen it?

One last thing...I've decided something... if you wear something enough it ends up paying for itself. For example, my Tory Burch gold flats for instance... $195..I've worn them easily about 70 times which means that's about $2.78 each time I wear them. They've nearly paid for themselves! So when you are getting ready to buy something ask yourself, "How many times am I going to wear this?" if the answer is once...then you're paying full price... if the answer is a few times...then it's always a sale!

Anyhow--- that's your Thursday Threads this week.

xoxo

Wardrobe Wednesday: Beach Wedding Chic

2012-01-18T12:25:00.000-08:00

This is not what I am wearing today (no, today I'm in "city pants" and a v-neck T because I'm working from home since Mr. D is on the mend from a trip to the ER...long story). Anyhow--- this is what I think I am wearing on Saturday to my friend's wedding on the beach in the Keys. I haven't sorted out the jewelry and shoes yet... but this is what I am thinking.

What would you wear to a 4pm beach wedding in the Florida Keys?

Happy Birthday to the Best Human on Earth!

2012-01-17T13:36:00.000-08:00

HappyBirthday to the most fashionable, wise and beautiful woman I know! I hope I can be every bit as lovely as she is one day! Feliz Cumpleanos Mami! TQM! Here she is with her cousin in the social pages in the late 60's
Again gracing the social pages in the 70's (look how tiny she was!)
On her birthday a few years ago giving me some love.
The 3 Cecilia's!

Golden Globes Favorites

2012-01-16T09:51:00.001-08:00

Last night I made sure to be on the couch as close to 6pm as possible for E!'s red carpet action. Here are some of my favorite looks from last night in no particular order...

Natalie looked so pretty. I loved the red flapped over the hot pink. Love love love!Kristin Wiig looked so pretty! I love her as a brunette and she has an amazing body and this dress made her look flawless! The dog from The Artist...perfect. Evan Rachael Woods looked amazing. I love all the texture in her dress. Amazing!
I love the neckline on this...and the barely there lavender is perfect for her age.
Normally I don't care for Tilda's ensembles...but I really love this color and the shape just suits her so well. Lovely.
Again, another lavender dress. I love the line and the detail of this. She looks radiant! I can't believe she has 2 kids!
Call me crazy but this may be my favorite look of the night. There was a LOT of nude on the carpet last night. LOTS!
I love how this just falls and flows so elegantly, and the color is really memorable.
Love the lines, the sleeves, the belt, the full on skirt...love it. This is my favorite that I would wear!
What were some of yours?

Thursday Threads: Mad for Plaid

2012-01-12T10:15:00.000-08:00

I love plaid. I think that a smart plaid shirt with a great pair of jeans and the right shoes is as chic as blacktie. Call me crazy! Here are some plaid things I found in the interwebs...

These pants come to you from the land of J.Crew and are currently on sale! I love them! I have considered putting them in my cart, especially since there is an extra 30% off sale items with the code: WINTER... but I'm hoping to shrink in size soon.

This shirt may be for the boys...literally but I think it would look cute on a girl...and if any of you are petit enough to fit into kids clothes, have at it because it comes from the Gap and is also on sale! $21 for it!!

Here is a great classic one for the ladies! This plaid shirt comes from Banana Republic and comes in tan and purple as well. I personally like the navy best. This is the kind of shirt you could have in your closet and wear year after year.

Then you have these cute classic red plaid rain boots! Believe it or not they come to you from Target. I think over a pair of jeans in the winter these would be ridiculously cute!
As if allll that plaid weren't enough---Duck Tape has PLAID duck tape! You can pick up this nifty item at Target or most places Duck Tape is sold.

So there you have it...some of my favorite plaid finds. Are you mad for plaid too?

Wardrobe Wednesday: Bright Bright as Yellow

2012-01-11T12:17:00.000-08:00

Ok, so this isn't what I am wearing today. This is what I wore yesterday---today I'm in jeans caring for my dehydrated with bronchitis husband at home, who needed me to drive him around.
Yesterday.... I wore...
1. Small Pearl Earrings
2. Eyeglasses, Ray Ban Wayfarers
3. Silver monogram necklace
4. Turquoise and bling bead necklace, J.Crew
5. Bright yellow dress, Old Navy
6. Peacock blue reva flats, Tory Burch

Hope your household is healthier than mine!

I'm Late to the Game: Downton Abbey

2012-01-10T14:02:00.000-08:00

I am ashamed to say that I only learned of this Emmy award winning show last week. Fortunately for me, I was able to watch the entire first season on PBS before the premier of the second season on Sunday night.
I can't say enough about this show made up of an all star cast including Maggie Smith. Be sure to tune into Masterpiece Classics on Sunday night for this gem!

Music Monday: Safe and Sound

2012-01-09T09:16:00.001-08:00

Hello Monday! I hope you had a nice weekend.
Last week I finished reading The Hunger Games Trilogy. You may remember that I posted about the books a few weeks ago. Well, the first book's movie is due to come out in March and part of the soundtrack has already hit iTunes. Taylor Swift partnered up with the Civil Wars for this beautiful song called, Safe and Sound. If you are a fan of either artist, the books or are excited about the movie, I highly recommend it. The "fan girls" are saying this is a song about the character Rue...but it really could be about anyone in the first book. It's beautiful.

Three Kings...Dia de los Reyes...Epiphany...12th Day of Christmas

2012-01-06T06:35:00.000-08:00

This is it! The official end to the Holiday Season. I hope that you had a really special one, and may the spirit of the holidays carry you through the rest of this year!

Today is the last day our tree will be up and our lights will go on outside our house. It's always bittersweet...but I am very excited about getting the house back in "order" and organizing it like a crazy woman.

So with that...Happy 3 Kings Day!

xoxo

Thursday Threads: Hello 2012! Hello Color!

2012-01-05T06:46:00.001-08:00

Hello lovelies! Have I told you how much I enjoy Thursday Threads? I love sharing my finds each week with you all. So here is what I found that I really like... This pretty number (I bought...still haven't tried it on) comes to you from Old Navy and is $35! It also comes in hot pink and black. Best part?... POCKETS!

I love this skirt. It reminds me of a Kate Spade number...only it's not. It's Old Navy (again) and only $35. It also comes in a yellow and grey stripe, but I really like the pink stripe. Isn't it perfect for just about anything?

Finally I fell in love with these "Classic Ballet Flats" from J.Crew when I got the catalogue. I want every color. They are $125 and are the perfect way to say "Hello 2012! Hello color!"

Have you seen anything lately that you would recommend for Thursday Threads? I'd love to hear from you.

XOXO

Wardrobe Wednesday: Happy New Year!

2012-01-04T18:50:00.000-08:00

I know I've already said it...but HAPPY NEW YEAR! Here is the first Wardrobe Wednesday of the year!

Today it was "cold" in Miami...though not as cold as yesterday. Today's high was 66, yesterday 55. So this is what I wore...
1. New small pearl earrings that I got from my mom for Christmas
2. Ray Ban Wayfarer glasses
3. Heather grey turtleneck sweater, J.Crew
4. Charcoal grey short sleeve sweater, Anthropologie
5. Chocolate brown cord leggings, Hue
6. Light brown "suede" embroidered faux "uggs" , Old Navy

...I also wore a red infinity scarf and my black quilted Burberry jacket this morning when it was much colder.

Mission 2012

2012-01-03T13:14:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year! I am back, I am back! Over the break, I was watching this Talk Show called "The Chew"and they had someone on who said we should not make "New Year's resolutions" because when we break them early in the game, we feel like it's OK to let them go...instead we should set a "mission" for the year. So here is my 2 part mission...stereotypical perhaps, even cliche...but this is it.

Part I Mission 2012: Organization...I'm tired...tired of forgetting where things are--- or hunting for a paper I know I had "that thing" on there... touch paper once, somebody once told me. I've already reorganized the fridge and the pantry...my closet is next, which means purging will ensue!

Part II Mission 2012: Health
When I had the baby too many people told me that the weight would come right off if I kept breast feeding...yeah not so much. Instead the weight came off and came back on full force. It's been over a year, and I my friends need to feel like ME again. So this is it. I'm getting back to it and hope to start feeling good again soon. There are some pants that I miss and love like a fat kid loves cake. So yeah...the time has come!

So that's it. Mission 2012. Basically it boils down to wanting to be the best example I can be for babykins. I want her to be organized and healthy in life. What's your mission this year?

Ciao 2011

2011-12-30T10:34:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure if I will have a chance to write tomorrow...so I wanted to take this opportunity to wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR! I hope you have an amazing time whatever you do!

I also wanted to thank you for reading and being a part of this blog of mine this year. I always love to see what you have written and hope to make my posts as interesting as possible.

Here are some of the most fun and memorable things that happened in 2011...(I'm sure I will miss a few)...

- Baby C in all of her glory. Watching her transform from a passive passenger to being in the drivers seat, walking, talking, eating and hugging her way through her days. Amazing!

- My family...ever expanding and supportive! I loved seeing nieces grow, cousins grow into friends and soon to be additions through marriage!

- Work...I love my day job. I love my work family and I loved spending another productive and fun year with them all!

- My art! I loved experimenting and every commission that came in this year was special! I can't wait to continue bringing joy into homes, offices...wherever!

- The blog!! This year I really came up with the schedule , and I feel like there is a groove. A great feeling..and watching my number of readers swell has been so wonderful! You readers are the BEST!

- My friends...my friends made this year memorable...from birthdays to first steps, weddings to sad separations...all in all we were always there for each other and I am so glad we were together.

- Mr. D...nothing would possible without him.

So thank you! Thank you all for making 2011 memorable and special each and everyday... !!

CHEERS! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Thursday Threads: 2011 Shoe-a-palooza

2011-12-29T13:47:00.000-08:00

I know I have been MIA, but my guby was in town until this morning, the baby got us ALL sick at Casa Dubonics...and what can I say, I have not been online much. Today, the guby left and although we are all still coughing, things are better. I thought I would leave you this final Thursday of the year with two good friends of mine.
The Tory Burch Reva flat in "volcano red" and "peacock feather"... both $195 at Nordstroms, and selling FAST. My mom gave me a pair in tan, but I decided, and Mr. D agreed "too many brown shoes"...so I went and exchanged the ones from my momma for the red ones I've been coveting. Then I took my xmas cash and bought the blue ones too... I really still want the
blue glitter eddie flats . But alas...I went with the others...maybe when the birthday fairy comes a knockin' one month from today, this is what she will bring me.
So my fashionable and art loving friends, I hope you've had a great holiday season...and may the next 2 days of 2011 be FABULOUS!

Merry Merry Christmas from Coral Gables

2011-12-24T08:43:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from our home in Coral Gables. May your holiday weekend be full of the love and laughter only family and friends can bring!

xoxo

Wardrobe Wednesday: Don't Hate Me...

2011-12-21T15:57:00.000-08:00

The baby is really sick...and my guby is coming in town tonight...so I haven't had time. Sorry. I prrrrrromise next week!!!

xoxo.

Warm Merry Merry Gifts

2011-12-20T09:46:00.000-08:00

For as long as I can remember, giving the perfect gift has been one of my favorite hobbies. Last year after having recently having babykins, I realized how capturing the right moment is one of the greatest gifts...that's when I started making the lockets.

This year I am experimenting with something that I think I will be offering from cSd Art& Design next holiday season, the photo ornament. This year my closest friends will be getting a 2011 cSd photo ornament.

I'd love your feedback. Do you like them? Would you want one on your tree?

Music Monday: Christmas Time is Here

2011-12-19T08:02:00.000-08:00

As the song says, "It's that time of year, when the world falls in love, everyone song you hear seems to say, Merry Christmas may your new year's dreams come true..."
And it is! I love this song...and there are a few other slightly not too traditional songs that I love that only get played this time of year...
Here is my list of fun Christmas tunes...
1. The Chairman of the Board would like to serenade you this Christmas. Frank Sinatra's rendition of the "Christmas Waltz" is one of my favorite Christmas songs ever. His voice is amazing...one of my other favorite voices, Johnny Mathis.

2.

Amy Grant's "Grown Up Christmas List" is such a pretty song. I turn up the radio every time it comes on. It's a nice reminder that the holiday season is about the well being of others and spending it among the people who love you.

Who doesn't like to belt out along with George Michael on this 80's classic of a Christmas Tune? Wham's "Last Christmas" is a staple at our holiday gatherings. It's hands down one of my favorites!

Last but most certainly not least is Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas is You" . I like to refer to this as to when "Mimi had a voice"...doesn't her voice sound a little wispy and airy these days compared to her Tony Matola days? Anyhow--- I love this song! It's fun and lively...just a great hit!

So there you have it. Some of my favorite (and poppier) Christmas songs. I hope you are in a good Christmas mood and enjoy this (as Frank would say) "most wonderful time of the year". Any favorites on your list?

Feliz Navidad xoxo Los Slesnick

2011-12-18T07:18:00.000-08:00

From our little family...to yours!

Pretty in Pink

2011-12-16T07:56:00.000-08:00

Come on over to the Florida Room for a view of my baby's beautiful slide show of pictures! She's the cutest in these yummers pics!

Have a great weekend!!

xoxo

Thursday Threads: Guest Blogger Sheffield from Back-In-Style

2011-12-15T06:17:00.000-08:00

Today we are fortunate to have one of my good friends, the extremely stylish Sheffield M. from BackInStyle, guest blogging for us. BackInStyle is a wonderful vintage boutique who has outfitted the likes of Julia Roberts on the red carpet.

Sheff is going to focus on one of the easiest things to give...a vintage handbag. With so many affordable options, you can get one for all the ladies in your life. Here are a few suggestions from Sheffield on how to choose a unique and special gift with out busting your budget! (Here is a picture of the two of us at a recent event at Henri Bendel in Miami).

A vintage clutch is a cute gift for a co-worker or friend who you go out with after work. Just attach a little tag that says "To friends, to fun, and to happy hour. Happy Holidays!"
Do you have plans with friends for New Year's Eve? Get her an evening bag for Christmas with a note that says, "Looking forward to celebrating with you!"
Totes make a great gift for lots of people.A friend who just had a baby and is looking for a stylish way to schlep around all that baby stuff. "To keep you looking stylish, (even when you have baby drool on your shoulder)."
A niece who is in school. “A stylish school bag probably won't help your grades, but at least it will make the other girls jealous.”
Someone who's New Year's Resolution is to go to the gym. "Here's to feeling good, and looking good!"
For your co-worker who always bring you your latte in the morning, a cross body bag. "It's easier to carry two coffees when your hands are free. Thanks for making my mornings a little easier!"
For your chic and sophisticated friends, there is the classic 1960s black Jackie O purse. "To Camelot! When I think of style and sophistication, I think of Jackie Kennedy, and you. Merry Christmas!"

No matter who it is, there is definitely an appropriate vintage handbag that would be a thoughtful and affordable gift for anyone of your friends, family, or colleagues.
Now where do you get a vintage handbag? If you are shopping for someone who lives out of town, shopping online is efficient, both in terms of ease of shopping, and ease of shipping. Vintage e-stores, like BackInStyle.com, and PoshVintage.com, as well as vintage marketplaces like ebay and etsy, all have a plethora of affordable and unique options. You can search for exactly what you want, a snake skin clutch, a retro tote, a vintage cross body bag, which can save you a lot of time going from shop to shop. Another bonus of shopping on line is that you don't have to worry about wrapping and shipping. Just have the vintage handbag sent straight to them. If its for someone local, try shopping your local thrift stores, and vintage stores. Be sure to choose stores in wealthy neighborhoods for the best merchandise selection. Oh, and one last vintage gift giving tip, take a little extra care when you wrap a vintage gift by adding a hand made gift tag, or using recycled wrapping paper, so it comes across as a personal and environmentally friendly gift, rather than a used bag.

Be on the look out next Wednesday when our Wednesday Wardrobe will again feature fashionable fashions from Back-In-Style. Until then please visit the BackInStyle.com website which now also has a showroom in Miami, Florida!

Book Soundtrack

2011-12-13T06:27:00.000-08:00

I'm back! I hope you are all well and getting through yet another week...the year is coming to an end and the Holidays are knocking at on our doors!

Well... Chicago was great! I love that city-- gorgeous architecture, amazing museums, friendly hearty people (you know with substance) and the weather was fantastic! Cold, sunny and one day with snow! The stuff that tropical dreams are made of!

Anyhow--- I bought a book to read on the plane (have I mentioned I am the world's slowest reader?). I started it on Wednesday on the plane to Chicago, by the time we landed I was nearly half way through--- read here and there while in Chicago and then the entire flight home to finally finish it up yesterday!

Folks---if you have not read The Hunger Games, I highly recommend it. It's book 1 of a trilogy. A friend of mine told me after we saw Breaking Dawn Part 1, that she liked the Hunger Games trilogy more than the Twilight Saga. I can understand why---and so can Hollywood as the Hunger Games movie is coming out in March 2012. Here is the trailer. It looks so good, I can't wait for the movie! The story is set in the future and is about a girl who is called up to participate in an annual fight to the death put on by her nations capitol. Her district in the country is known to be the poorest and has only had one winner in the Hunger Games in their 74 years. The story is engaging and fast paced---definitely glad I had book 2, Catching Fire, ready to go when I was done with The Hunger Games.

There is a bit of a love triangle and I've already found myself rooting for one of the characters over the other...and have fallen in love with him, just like I did Edward. Seriously Team Peeta all the way! Look at him!

I've also decided that these two (Peeta and Katniss) should have a theme song--- a soundtrack, and this morning while driving into work I heard Rhianna's "We Found Love in a Hopeless Place" and immediately thought of their story. I've linked up the video there.

So have you ever read a book and applied your own soundtrack to it?

Table Settings

2011-12-06T11:53:00.001-08:00

We just moved a bunch of furniture around in our house to make our dinning room less crowded. The end result is great--- but we also had to move around some of our art. There is now one wall that is still not 100% to my liking...so on Sunday night as we were sitting there having dinner for the first time in the space, I thought to myself... why not paint something fun and practical for the space?
This is what I am thinking. A table setting. It's fun, it's useful and I grew up helping set the table---so I know that our daughter will too---which means that the painting would be an educational tool as well.
What do you think?

Music Monday: Better Late Than Never

2011-12-05T08:46:00.000-08:00

First of all--- I hope you had a great weekend!
Second of all, I will warn you...I am going to be traveling to Chicago this week for work, and will not be able to post my usual Wardrobe Wednesday or Thursday threads. I know you are sad, don't cry, it's OK! I'll post them next week!

Ok--- so onto the music!!
Sometimes I'm a little late to the game with music. I listen to a lot of music, but sometimes I'm not 100% up and up on what "the kids are listening to" ...part of the reason is because a lot of "what the kids are listening to" is crap... However when I hear something I like, I will shazam it, or I will ask a friend about it. This week I have 3 songs for you to take in...

1.

The first song comes courtesy of my GBF, Derek who lives in Boston. Last night he sent me a satirical video to the tune of Carlos Baute's song, "En Tus Manos". I realized I liked the original song and had never downloaded it. The song was the summer hit in 2010! (See what I mean, late to the game) It's a catchy Spanish language song he sang with Spaniard Marta Sanchez. I have linked up the video for you to enjoy.

The second song I heard (not for the first time) the other night when I got sucked into a show on TV which will remain nameless...however Adam Levine and the boys from Maroon 5 performed their song, "Moves Like Jagger" and ever since then, I cannot get the song out of my head. I was singing it through most of the Art Basel events and fairs all of last week. It's such a fun song! Again, I have linked the official video for you to enjoy.

3.

The last song comes from my friend Ana who in recent years has been the person who can answer my "who is this?" questions for pop music. She sent me a link for M83's "Midnight City" after reading last week's Music Monday post. After I heard it I realized I had heard the song a lot and have been meaning to download it. Naturally the video is linked up so you can hear the song yourself.

Any good music you've been listening to that I should download before my trip to Chicago this week?

Art Week in Review 2011

2011-12-04T17:30:00.000-08:00

Go, go, go...that's what it was like. I know that I did not go to all the fairs, and I certainly did not get to all the parties...but for a mom of a 13 month old, I think I did well. Here is Thursday night- Friday in a nutshell. My celebrity sighting, my posse, my artist friends, my museum peeps and of course all of the art that I would have loved to have taken home with me if money and space were no object.
Thursday night I went to the Miami Art Museum's 10th Annual Party on the Plaza, a.k.a. MAM POP. As you know MAM is my daytime next door neighbor, so I make it a point to get over there and see their exhibits every time there is something new to see. Currently at MAM they have a beautiful collection of Faith Ringold's paintings on display. I had not gotten a chance to get over to see it until POP...and when I got to the back gallery I was stunned then there she was, in all her calm and matriarchal glory---Faith Ringold. I told my friend Chris I was just going to stand near her---take my picture...well turns out we had a short chat and got a real picture taken. I was a happy happy girl. Isn't she lovely?
My dates for the night were my gubby, Chris and one of my BFF's Heather. Aren't they stunning? Well, here we are posing in the over-sized MAM POP frame that was set up in the museum lobby. Shortly after this was taken, a sketchy Brazilian man asked me to be in his picture with all these cougars...I gladly accepted and subsequently photo bombed the shot. Tee hee.
Here Chris and I are smiling waiting for Rashaad Newsome's performance piece to begin---joining us are some of my artist/ school district peeps...everyone looking smashing.
This is my friend, educator and talented artist, Asser Saint-Val. He was one of my first Artist-in-Residence at the Miami Children's Museum when I was running that program. He was also an educator there---today he is an educator at MAM, and still painting. I am fortunate to have one of his paintings hanging on my wall. So that was the crew on Thursday night... now moving onto the Friday crew...
The fearless foursome! From 10:00am - 5:30pm these 3 proved to be fun partners in crime. Again, my dear friend Chris (again---he was def my art whore), and 2 friends from work, Thuvia and Sarah. Aren't our ensembles complimentary of each other?
We ran into an old museum peep, Ricardo who is the only way we got the stellar picture of the 4 of us from Friday. Thanks for being a willing and well suited photographer!
Here is a shot of the 3 HistoryMiami Education girls in the ab fab Legal Art, neon pink stairwell. It was amazing!
So that was the crew on Friday... now that all the players are in place...let's begin with the art.
On Friday we started our day at the Legal Art Collector's Brunch. The best part was the artist studios, especially the TM Sisters . Their studio/living space was a sensory overloaded magical oasis of music, mirrors, lights, video and energy! It was great!
After Legal Art, we headed over to the Arsht Center for a food truck lunch (YUM). I had never been...it was great. It wasn't all about the food though...one of the Miami Pop Up Pianos was there too! Isn't it pretty? I tried to convince Chris to play (the most talented organist/pianist ever) ...he was too hungry.

After lunch we headed over to midtown to do some serious damage. Midtown was home to 3 tented fairs, Art Miami, Scope and Red Dot. The 4 of us started at Art Miami.
This is "Beauty is Never Useless" by Chiara Moreschi. Part of the Persol gallery---this piece was sparkly and shinny and glimmering. A fun piece for any wall.
I love books. So what can be better than a series of classic book covers on your walls? Sorry--- I did not get the artist information on this one.
For a short amount of time, I was a part time New Yorker. I love NYC, it's am amazing city--- this is "Brooklyn Bridge: Brooklyn" by Stephanie Lempert. If you look closely, the shadows are all made of words significant to the artist and the city.

When you look in the mirror you want to see only fabulousness no? Well, what better way to see that than to see fabulous! This is "Fabulous" by Norbert Bruner. I love the black ornate mirror up against the sleek minimal mirror. A fun oxymoron.
"Texture of a Ghost" by Andrew Erdos... it was a mirrored room with glass blown sculptured coming off the wall, eerie lighting and two flat screens mounted on the ceiling of the room playing images of the Arizona red rock landscape. It was bizarre and enthralling.
How can you not love Tin Tim and have him in your home? "Tin Tin en la Pena Bernal" by Cantabella. Super fun! I love it when art has a sense of humor.
This was one of my favorites of the day... Andy Burgess painted this beautiful piece...and it had a red dot. Lucky. I love the palette, the brush strokes and the way they compliment the clean modern lines of the home. The light also almost glows off the canvas, its gorgeous!
So some art is expensive, some is "affordable" and some is completely accessible. This funny piece was "affordable" at, $3,000. "Sir Henry Pug" by David Imlay... I have a soft spot for pugs, having grown up with a few. I've painted my Ricky...he currently hangs in babykins' room.
This was one of the neatest pieces I saw and would love to have this. "Untitled" by American Graham Caldwell. Hanging right next to this, was...
This pretty Calder. I love Calder, he is one of my favorites...his palette, his motion---all of it.
The Cristo gates may have been temporary, but the drawings the duo prepared will live on. I was a PT NY-er when the gates were installed for 30 days, I would love this drawing.
After all that art...we took a break in the VIP lounge. Nice eh? ... OK back to the art...

These two pieces were among my favorites. First of all because they remind me of something you would find on the blog, Unhappy Hipsters. Secondly in the first one...they are watching my favorite movie, "The Sound of Music". Julie Blackmon's "Night Movie".
Isn't this genius? We all thought so---artist and resident of the Berkshires, Molly Hatch was there and was such a pleasure to talk to. I would have bought the entire collection, this one is "Mon Plaisir: Count Fersen, Mlle. Lamballe et Mlle. Polignac" was one of my favorites. You should definitely look up Molly's beautiful gouache paintings and ceramic pieces.
Jessica Joslin is responsible for this trio of misfits, "Caliope". Aren't they amazing? Have I mentioned I love taxidermy and all dead zoo like pieces? I find it beautiful and comical all at the same time.

Two years ago when I first went to Art Miami, I fell in love with the work of this artist...and on Friday it happened again. I love it! Her comical sense of humor, the femininity found in the paintings, the colors...all of it! Kelly Reemsten. Look her up and fall in love with your own dress. I would happily hang these all down a hall.
Isn't this hysterical? It was the last shot I took when leaving Art Miami, so I apologize I didn't get the artist information.
Outside Art Miami we were greeted by this shirted tree. Fun eh? ...and yes, it was a beautiful day. After this, we hopped over to Scope.
This piece was totally made of buttons! Can you believe that? I wish I had taken a close up of Ran Hwang's piece. Fortunately I did take one of the other Hwang that hung next to this one...

All that thread made this...amazing isn't it?
Did I mention I like art with a sense of humor? "Jackalope" at $1,300 by Bryan Cunningham was definatly one I would like to have picked up!
I also gladly would have taken this one home, $2,900 for "Monkey Pioneers of Outer Space" by Chris Roberts Antieau. This was a textile piece. So pretty...and funny. Love it! Want it.
Remember the category of accessible art? THIS is it... Evan B. Harris...one of his small pieces was $175! His work is whimsical and inventive, and I fell in love with it.
I also fell in love with this one...and I am SO angry I didn't get the artist details for it. It reminded me of a Fraganard.
Artist D*Face created this funny and satirical view of Hollywood.
Why not?
Too funny.
So tired. Here we are at the end of Scope. From here we walked over to the edge of the Design District where we found this dome...cool eh?

AND we finally made it to the Veuve Clicquot airstream for "champ" which is what Chris was most looking forward to all day. He lead the way to the lounge and graciously drank his "champ" .
It was another fun installment of Art Basel in Miami for me. I hope you enjoyed what I virtually brought to you to see!

Thursday Threads: Art Basel Vernissage Edition

2011-12-01T08:16:00.000-08:00

Last night was the VIP Opening Night of Art Basel Miami Beach, otherwise known as, Vernissage. This 10th instalment of Vernissage was far more crowded, and actually smaller than years past. As usual, my gaggle and I played the "If money and space were no object what art would you buy" game. Here were some of my favorites, though I will say there were a few Frank Stellas...a Calder mobile...and a Donald Judd I saw out of the corner of my eye which I could not get a picture of to show you. Abracadabra! Who would not want this in their home?! It's fantastic! LOVE!

I thought these lanterns were so pretty. They look like cut paper...so delicate. I can only imagine the shadows it makes on the walls. Stunning. Behind them you might see a blue prism thing...that was the coolest!...Below you will see a picture of what I look like from one end of it...

See! Isn't that neat? It also sounded like a megaphone. I found a few of my friends futzing around with their cameras at the blue prism. Love interactive art! Speaking of interactive art...

Have you met Wills? We're recently engaged. I know what you are thinking, isn't he married? No...he left her for me as you can plainly see. Took his mamas ring with him and ran into my arms. Seriously, isn't this amazing? I want this in my house. This is currently my Facebook profile picture.

Not all of the art was warm...some was just fuzzy. I like to call this attack of the stuffed animals...I would be lying if I told you I knew who did this...but I think Nikki Menage, Lady Gaga and Katy Perry know the artist. I was a little frightened by it.

"There is nothing to worry about" was just one of the messages these LEDs were scrolling from bottom up. I really liked the glow they gave off. Nice.

Finally, one of Mr. cSd's favorites...the Warhol wallpaper. Mooooooooo!

It was a fun night...and I did run into fab blogger and dear friend, Kristin Pearce last night--- also ran into a lot of my museum friends.

As far as Art Basel is concerned, it keeps my calendar buzzing all weekend. Today I went to the Miami Art Museum's brunch preview of the performance art piece by Rashaad Newsome, which will be performed at their POP party tonight (which I will be going to). Tomorrow there will be plenty more art to "buy" in our game. As I told my dear friend last night--- I've already spent a few million euros. I only work in euros at Basel".

Wardrobe Wednesday: Vernissage Ensemble

2011-11-30T12:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Wednesday! Here is what I plan on wearing tonight to Art Basel's Vernissage on Miami Beach.
1. Hot Pink Tunic, Old Navy
2. Black Tights
3. Animal Print Wedges, Steve Madden
4. Jewelry...is up in the air..something fun and sparkly I am sure
5. It may be cooler, so I may throw on my faux fur jacket... we'll see

What do you think?

BTW---this morning I was at the Beaux Arts Holiday Market...WOW. I could have spent so much money there! Great clothes from Alessandra Palacios, Kristin Pearce was out with her beautiful jewelry and home goods, Katy Did was there with her ribbon creations...it was fab!

It's My Favorite Time of Year! Art Week in Miami

2011-11-29T09:53:00.000-08:00

Let the art fun begin! Starting tomorrow night--- (or tonight if I decide to go to MOCA's Vanity Fair party) Art Week begins with the grande dame of them all events, Vernissage. Vernissage is the opening VIP preview night of Art Basel. I will be in attendance this year with the hubs and a couple of friends. The past few years we have had celebrity sightings, Sofia Vergara, Tom Wolfe and Marc Jacobs. For Wednesday Wardrobe I'll be painting my ensemble for the evenings event...as I have been planning it (with a little help from Pinterest). Thursday night I'm going to the Miami Art Museum's (my daytime neighbor) POP (Party of the Plaza) fete. That should be fun...it normally is packed and there are celebrity sightings there as well. One year we saw Ivana Trump with her then husband (now ex)...and same year saw Marc Jacobs (again) running around in a kilt. I'll be escorted by my GBF on this night--which is bound to be fun times!Friday I am taking my staff fair hoping. We're going to start the day at one of the Art Basel conversations, then we are going to the Arsht Center for a Food Truck lunch on their plaza and then we'll buzz over to Art Miami.

It's going to be lots of fun! I'm excited to see all of it, the art, the spectacle, the people, what people are wearing...all of it!

Music Monday: Tunes I'm Going to Download

2011-11-28T11:58:00.000-08:00

Remember how I said my taste in music is all over the place? Here's an example...the first song I will be downloading this week is, "Begging You" by Madcon. I have heard the song here and there, but the other day while in the Neiman's shoe department, they had a DJ spinning and this is one of the songs he played. I instantly found myself bopping my head and wanting to spend $300 on shoes.
You may remember this Scottish band's hit, "Roll to Me" ...well this weekend I heard another one of their songs, that I had forgotten about. "Tell Her This"...a really pretty song worth downloading. Del Amitri broke up in 2002, but their music still finds its way on the airwaves on XFM's The Spectrum.
My final download recommendation for this week comes from the late, Ms. Amy Winehouse. In 2002 Amy recorded a reggae inspired version of the song, "Our Day Will Come", the song was unreleased until earlier this month. It is another great example of how her voice brought classics back to life.

I hope the music carries you through a great week! It's going to be really busy with Art Week starting tomorrow here in Miami. I'll be attending Art Basel's Vernissage on Wednesday, I may be going to MAM's annual POP (Party on the Plaza), and Friday I am "fair hopping" with museum friends. It should be a lot of fun and I will report back with lots of pictures.

A Year through Sheri's Lense: A Florida Room Post

2011-11-27T08:18:00.001-08:00

I hope you are having a great weekend. Yesterday, we had our final session with friend and photographer Sheri Mazareigos. Please visit, The Florida Room to see the sneak peak at our pictures.

I hope you enjoy your last day of this lovely long weekend! :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T09:06:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
May your day be full of love, laughter, family, friends...and feasting!

XOXO

Wardrobe Wednesday: Saddle Shoes

2011-11-23T10:20:00.000-08:00

Happy Wednesday! For most of us, today is Faux Friday! YAY! ...this means that I got to wear jeans to work today. Here's what I put together...
1. Tom Ford horn rimmed glasses
2. Kate Spade bee earrings
3. Fornash orange derby bracelet (thanks to Kristin Pearce)
4. 2 Gold chunky bracelets from The Island Shop
5. Silver monogram necklace
6. Silcer cSd oval locket
7. White V-Neck T from Target
8. Yellow ruffle cardigan
9. Green Hermes belt
10. Levis Denizen jeans, Target
11. Saddle Shoes

I love my Saddle shoes and I have not worn them in so long. Now that "fall" is here I will be wearing them more often I think. They're so great and not something you see people (over the age of 12) wearing a lot. I think they are like bow ties, it takes the right person to pull them off.

Anyhow--- I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family and friends!

Saint Cecilia and the Lockets of Love: Kendell and Sheri

2011-11-22T07:16:00.000-08:00

I'd like to start by saying that today is the Feast of St. Cecilia, the patron Saint of Music. Cecilia, like myself was an only child and she is one of seven women (excluding the Virgin Mary) to be commemorated by name in the Cannon Mass. Basically Cecilia, a noble woman from Rome was tres important. So on this her feast day, I hope all the Cecilia's out there and the ones in my life have a joyful day full of music! Ok---so last week my dear friend Sheri Mazariegos received and loved her lockets with pictures of her children. You may remember them from this post. Well, after a long 8 week period waiting for my oval lockets to come in from my manufacturer...I was able to finish her other locket for her assistant. The large oval displays a picture of her daughter on one side and her son on the other. It's easy to see why this mom would want to wear her beautiful children. ...They are stunning!

I also got pictures from friend, Kendell for the second of her lockets. The first locket was for her sister and featured her two black poodles. This set of black poodles, Poochini and Tosca belong to Kendell herself. The pair is a lively one and I hope Kendell enjoys showing off her babies with this locket.

Don't forget this Friday is the last day to order lockets for the Holidays if you live outside of the state of Florida.

Large Ovals and Hearts (1.5") with 28" chain, sterling silver $100 (+shipping)

Small ovals and squares (1") with 20" chain, sterling silver $75 (+shipping)

Every additional large locket is $50 and every additional small locket is $30.

To see more samples of the lockets please visit my page on Facebook.

Music Monday: The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 Soundtrack

2011-11-21T16:03:00.000-08:00

OK I am going to just put this out there... I read all the books, I have gone to see each movie on opening weekend with friends (except the first one), I was there on Saturday night with friends, I plan on seeing it again, and I am on Team Edward.

Don't hate.

Now...one thing most people can agree on is that the The Twilight Saga movies have all had great soundtracks and this latest installment is no different. If you visit the soundtrack website
You can actually hear some of it and watch some videos. They've done a nice job...Now for the other important aspect of this series...how can you NOT be on Team Edward? He's smart, funny, caring, compassionate, mature and yes he happens to be wealthy.
I mean...on Team Edward you go to a private island off the Coast of Rio and have lots of vampire sex! On Team Jacob you get a butter face werewolf who's constantly running a fever! HA!

I hope you will check out the soundtrack (and movie) and enjoy it.

Thursday Threads: Thanksgiving Baubles

2011-11-17T05:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Thursday! Only one week away from Thanksgiving! EEEK! Well, today I am wondering what to wear next Thursday and the items I am coveting are all bold and have a lot of character...and if worn together would be a lovely statement at the Thanksgiving table. Speaking of...do you know what you are wearing yet? I'd love to hear...I'm still not sure.

Last Christmas I bought myself a large silver monogram. I love love love it, but I honestly wear more gold than silver (except for my lockets)...so currently I am coveting a large gold monogram like this. Fortunately for me, my friend Colleen owner of the incredible store Stitching Around in Miami is now selling these. The large gold ones are $282...and this is definitely going to be my Birthday gift from me to me. If you have anything that needs monogramming or personalization, you must go to Stitching Around.

The red on red Reva. Swoon... I love these puppies. Have I ever told you how much I love red shoes? Red really in general, one of my favorite colors to wear. I think it is bold, daring, chic and timeless all at the same time.

Isn't this so pretty? It's a Fornash Derby Bracelet. Imagine it in orange...like an Hermes orange. YUM! Kristin Pearce first introduced me to this gem. She is carrying it on her online store. It's so pretty and only $38! Kristin is hard at work at Holiday Markets and trunk shows this month. If you live in Miami--- look her up! Her treasures are just that...treasures!

Wednesday Wardrobe: Grrrr Tiger

2011-11-16T14:26:00.001-08:00

Hello Wednesday! I've been running around like crazy this week visiting schools and picking up vendors for the Coral Gables Community Foundation Tour of Kitchens. So today was another meeting filled day and this is what I wore...
1. Pearl Earrings (I've been wearing my college pair for a while now)
2. Tiffany Elsa Peretti cross and C disc
3. Fornash Gold equestrian inspired necklace (picked up from Kristin Pearce)
4. 2 chunky gold bracelets from the Island Shop on Key Biscayne
5. Grrrr tiger animal print Calvin Klein dress
6. Talbots black cardigan
7. Gold Reva's by Tory Burch
8. My standard watch and wedding bands
9. Ray Ban Wayfarer glasses

Lockets of Love : Sheri Mazariegos Photography

2011-11-15T06:54:00.000-08:00

My friend and talented photographer, Sheri Mazariegos (who has a great blog) is the mother of 4 gorgeous children. She recently decided to start adding cSd lockets to what she offers her clients as "what to do with your pictures". Now when you get your pictures taken with Sheri you can not only get books, cards, prints and canvases...BUT you can get lockets!

Here are the 2 lockets I made for her as not only a thank you for the partnership, but because she's amazing and makes my child look like a model. If you are in South Florida and you need an amazing photographer to capture your events, family, dogs...whatever...you MUST use Sheri!

Music Monday: Recently Added

2011-11-14T06:27:00.000-08:00

Howdy! I hope you had a nice (and if you were lucky LONG) weekend. In the past I have mentioned what a big part of my life music is. Not only that, but I have a very eclectic tastes in music everything from classic standards to Latin pop. For the past year, I have had Shazam on my phone--and for the most part it has been great in helping me identify tunes I like. Also a culprit of this is my XM radio. I have had it for nearly 3 years and can't imagine going back to terrestrial radio. I usually walk around with a list of songs to download... here are some that I have "Recently Added" to my ipod, and recommend...

Band of Horses. I first discovered this Seattle band about 2 years ago thanks to XM and their song, "Laredo". Well, their latest album has a lovely song called "No One's Gonna Love You". It's so pretty and simple. You may recognize their song "Life on Earth" from the Eclipse Motion Picture Soundtrack (side note--- SO EXCITED for Breaking Dawn this week...will probably blog more about that later this week). Another one of my favorites in recent years has been Death Cab for Cutie. Another band from the great state of Washington...and formed by the talented Ben Gibbard .Gibbard is not only the lead singer for Death Cab, but the Postal Service (whose song "Such Great Heights" is one of my favorites). Well, in their 7th studio album, Death Cab has done it again mixing Ben's sweet vocals with equally sweet tunes. I recently downloaded the catchy and sweeping "Stay Young Go Dancing" . When I was little, a lot of my friends went to a sleep away camp in Georgia called, Camp Cherokee for Girls. One of their camp councilors was one of the Indigo Girls, I would lie if I told you I knew if it was Amy or Emily...I just can't remember. Point is from the age of about 12 or maybe even 10 I have listened to their music and loved it. Their voices and guitars harmonize so beautifully. In February of 2010, I went to my first Indigo Girls concert with a friend, it was so nice to finally hear them live, and naturally ran into a ton of friends, including some of the Camp Cherokee girls. (Fun Fact...I was pregnant and didn't know it at this concert.) ...ANYHOW--- in their latest studio album, there is a song I first heard on XM called, "We Get to Feel it All" with lyrics like, "This is what I learned about you, you set the sun and you hung the moon..." so pretty.

My final recent download was Sondre Lerche's "Night and Day". I first heard Sondre's music while watching a GREAT movie, "Dan in Real Life", the entire soundtrack is Sondre's music. This Norwegian has fun with his music. The lyrics are rooted in recognizable emotions we've all felt...and the music is simple and sweet. "Night and Day" happens to be one of my favorite songs of all time, and I must own half a dozen renditions of it one of them being Bebel Gilberto's which is beautiful...Sondre's version is fun and snappy.

Have you heard anything good recently that you would recommend?

Thursday Threads: Target to the Rescue

2011-11-10T08:48:00.000-08:00

Happy Thursday Threads! Today I want to tell you about how Target not only came to the rescue...but to the rescue of some of my uber fashionable friends. As you know, Saturday was babykins' birthday party. On Friday while running around with my mom (Coco as the bebe calls her), I realized I didn't know what I was going to wear to the fete. I'm not 100% loving my jeans these days, as I am STILL fighting to work off the bebe weight...yes I know it's been a year. Sue me.
Anyhow--- I ran through the Target women's department (one of my favorite places to treasure hunt)... and went right for the Levi's Denizen jeans. I had read about them in People Stylewatch...or maybe it was INstyle...point is they were voted best form flattering. People...they are amazing! So I picked up a pair and this super cute shirt from Converse One Star. The shirt was such a hit, 2 of my friends went and bought it--- and then on Tuesday night at my Junior League meeting, I saw 2 other ladies with it on in different prints. It's such a great shirt, and only $25.

The jeans are amahhhzing! I love love love them! They are super stretchy so I don't feel like a fat hoss in them...even though I had to buy a double digit size which I refuse to acknowledge. They are actually so great, I bought the darker wash, and went back later this week and bought the lighter wash. I am going to wear these until they die... or until I can fit into a smaller size, and then have the fullest intentions of buying more in the new smaller cuter size. Best part...they are only $27!

Both items are also available online if you don't feel like going hunting at the store.

...now tomorrow is Veterans Day...AND 11.11.11... so I may not post. If I don't, have a great weekend. If I do---then I'm sure it will be fab.

xoxo

Wardrobe Wednesday: Inspired by Coco + Kelly

2011-11-09T11:01:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Coco + Kelly blogged about wearing white "after labor day". I loved the look they showed, a denim shirt with white pants. The minute I read it, I knew this is what I would wear today.
So, here is my version of their "Breaking All the Rules" post. If you are not a reader of this blog, I highly recommend it. It is full of ways to beautify your life, your world.
I hope you are having a great week so far and may your week be a short one with the Friday holiday....which also happens to be a once in a lifetime date, 11.11.11.

Chic Vintage BonBon Rose Girl!

2011-11-08T14:19:00.000-08:00

Here it is! The final Wardrobe Watercolor for Kristin from BonBon Rose Girls .
She is wearing vintage pieces and is stylish as usual. I will be mailing this to Kristin later this week, so it will make it way home to the West Coast (of Florida).

Yesterday one of you said you wished I sold my drawings...well your wish has come true! I do sell them. You can email me and it all begins there!!

Preppy Mafia Queen: Final Beth

2011-11-07T05:44:00.000-08:00

Here it is! The final watercolor painting of dear Beth from Social Climbers. I will be sending this off to her this week so it will finally be home!

Happy Birthday Babykins!

2011-11-06T10:17:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to the most beautiful part of my life. Thank you for filling my heart with pure joy everyday!

Lemonade House - Finished

2011-11-04T06:47:00.001-07:00

You may remember a little bit ago, I asked for your input on a painting I was doing for a friend. After your input and hers this is the final product. I really enjoyed painting this for her "sister" because it's so sweet and simple.
I am taking commissions this month to be ready for Christmas. If you are interested in giving a special and personal gift like this for someone you love, just send me an email.

Tomorrow is babykins' 1st birthday party--- so I am off to get the final pieces together for her big day. Her birthday is Sunday, so this whole weekend is devoted to my sweet girl.

I hope you have a great weekend!!

Thursday Threads: Wishing for Fall

2011-11-03T11:54:00.000-07:00

So it is no secret I am a huge fan of J.Crew...however I will say some of the classic prep has been lost--but it's still a trust worthy brand. I was looking through some of their new arrivals and as usual this time of year...longing for the fall to arrive. I am also a huge fan of Old Navy...and just like last week I found some great things! I also blame my upcoming trip to Chicago next month.

This cropped pea coat is from Old Navy. It comes in a great shade of green too---but the yellow just seems like a great pop of color on gloomy winter days. Over at J.Crew I found a few treasures, including this cashmere tee dress. It's not too expensive, considering...and I love the color.
There is also this "Perfect Shirt" in tartan. Isn't this perfect for Thanksgiving? I'd maybe wear that red cashmere dress over this...belt it...cute!
Finally at J.Crew I found these pretty skinny cords. I like the skinny because you can throw boots over them, or pair them with a great flat like the ones I found below at Old Navy!
That's right, these flats are from Old Navy! Aren't they cute? I looked for them at the store and have only been able to find them online.

I will also say I also found great things at the Loft this week. Such cute things for fall!

Wardrobe Wednesday: Butterfly

2011-11-02T12:17:00.001-07:00

Happy Wednesday! Today's ensemble is a mix and match of old, new and inherited.
Old- my top. It's a great number I got at Banana Republic at least 5 years ago.
New- my skirt. I just picked it up at Macy's on sale this weekend.
Inherited- my shoes. My mom didn't want them anymore.

I'm sorry yesterday's link wasn't working. Here it is... www.flaroom.blogspot.com

Florida Room

2011-11-01T18:17:00.001-07:00

There is a lot of cuteness like this over in the Florida Room today. Head over and visit. :)

A Ghoulish and Hauntingly Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T09:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween be safe my pretties!!!

Happy Halloween Weekend!

2011-10-28T13:39:00.000-07:00

Halloween weekend is here! If you are like me you LOVE Halloween! I just think dressing up is so much fun (and I don't mean in those slutty costumes you can buy at Party City). Since Halloween is on Monday, that means that most people with a social life will have at least one party to go to, or may be throwing a party of their own.

This year is babykins first Halloween, so we are keeping it low key---but I am dressing up as a Pan Am stewardess. I have the vintage name tag and bag which I bought at the HistoryMiami gift shop. I also have a black dress, orange tights and a great head band with a big bling spider on it that my M.I.L. bought for me as a gift. :)

Anyhow--- I hope you have a Happy and SAFE Halloween weekend! If you are throwing a party...above is a cool idea straight from the party Queen herself...Mrs. Stewart.

Boo!

Thursday Threads: Miami in the Fall

2011-10-27T06:15:00.001-07:00

So Miami in the Fall is bizarre. It's "cooler" because on average its in the mid 70's - high 80's during the day...but then we'll get a "cold front" and it will cool down to lower-mid 70's during the day. However envious you all may be of us down here...we are envious of everyone up north who gets to put on boots, scarves and cuddle up with a cup of hot cocoa!

So how do we dress... here are some building blocks I found on the interwebs this week that caught my eye... This green dress is a little something I found at Old Navy online. It's about $40, and comes in serpent (green) or a beige...personally I love the green. It's light enough that we can wear on a high 70's day...but easily can be "warmed" up for a cool 67 degree night! Just add a cardigan, a scarf and tights...you are set. Maybe black tights with black booties?

This sparkly number is another Old Navy find. It is an Internet only find at about $35. This is the dress in "black" but it also comes in beige with rosettes embellished on it and another black with rosettes embellished on it. This one is my favorite of the three. Again, easy to "warm up" and dress up.

This southwestern inspired open number I found really lovely. It's a "trend" that is classic, and I could honestly see myself wearing this not only as shown above, but with something like the green dress. It looks beyond comfortable, and in Miami this is normally as heavy as we need to go when it gets "cold".

Last but never least is a rockin' pair of riding boots. I was telling one of my sorority sisters and favorite people in the world, A over at the A-List (a funny funny blog by the way)that if investing in boots, always go with a riding boot. They are comfortable, classic, stylish and will never go out of style! They are a great investment...that's why two years ago when Ciao Bella came out with the solid black and solid cognac colored versions of this dual tone boot, I bought them both. This pair, currently is available at DSW online for under $100! AND they come in a wide calf if you need that. The best part of the dual tone boot, is that all you need is ONE pair of boots! If you live in Miami this is all you really need...these boots you can wear over skinny jeans, with tights and a dress, with skinny black pants they are a great investment.

Wednesday Wardrobe: Bulls Eye!

2011-10-26T08:21:00.000-07:00

This entire ensemble is from Target (except for my jewels). Can you believe how cute it is? Of course you can, because Target is full of treasures even when it's not "designer". The best part is that other than the shoes, the top and skirt are currently in stock by Merona.

Hope you are having a great week so far!

Babykins

2011-10-25T11:07:00.000-07:00

Isn't she lovely? Isn't she wonderful? ...the other day I started sketching my sweet baby girl. I can't believe she is going to be 1 in a little over a week. Although it went by quickly, I am the first to say it seems like forever ago. I'm just glad she's here, she's mine, and I lover her.

Hope you are having a great Tuesday!

Tall Glass of Lemonade

2011-10-24T08:33:00.001-07:00

The names have been changed in order to protect the SURPRISE element of this painting.

So...a childhood friend of mine recently sent me an email telling me about her twin sister's new home. Her sister and brother-in law just celebrated their wedding anniversary and she thought a nice way to commemorate the date was by having an original piece of art made for them. I'm a huge fan of lemonade, so I thought that this tall, sweet and lovable drink would be just the right way for this couple to settle into their pad.

Here's what I've got... first off is the sketch. I thought I would put a label on the lemon with the letter for their first names.

Then I moved onto the color sketch. I am torn, and my friend is going to have to pick. I am a personal fan of both...however... Isn't the pink one nice?

Anyhow---we'll see what my friend says and then I will get to work! Which would you pick?

Thursday Threads: White Wedding

2011-10-20T12:24:00.000-07:00

Five years ago today I married my BFF, Mr. DDS. Long before we got engaged I saw this picture, and knew that would be my wedding dress. An Amsale dream come true. I was in grad school in NYC at the time I got engaged, and as soon as I could I made my appointment at Amsale to go see the dress with my own two eyes. The dress in the showroom was different...and I will say I was disappointed. It was not until the real hunt began and I landed at Saks that I found this dress...and knew, this was it. My mom did not agree...she did not want me in strapless, or with any color...she thought I would look silly...but then she saw me in it...20 minutes later, SOLD.
If I were to get married again, I would still wear this dress. I love it. I hope one day my daughter will want to wear it (highly unlikely). The only thing I would so, is ask them to put pockets in it. Would you still wear your wedding dress if you were getting married today? If you are not married, what does your dream dress look like?

Anyhow--- Happy Anniversary Sugar! Thanks for the laughs, the love, and the lunacy!

Wardrobe Wednesday: A Little Bit of This...A Little Bit of That...

2011-10-19T13:22:00.000-07:00

It's Wednesday! I wanted to share my ensembles from yesterday and today. I am interviewing people for 2 positions at the museum this and next week---so I need to look put together at all times. First impressions are not just important for the interviewee but me as the interviewer. The top image is from yesterday...my blue Missoni number with standard reva flats (which I have worn all week so far). The bottom image is from today-- comfortable, cute and again in the Reva flats.

I started working on my two new commissions last night---so far I am enjoying these. I don't think I can share them until they are done because they are gifts. One for a baby's birthday from her dad and the other from a sister for her brother and his new bride. Aren't those sweet?

Don't forget you too can give a sweet gift like these too...and I'm so affordable it's crazy!

Sketch 1: The BonBon Rose Girl

2011-10-18T18:17:00.000-07:00

When I hit 100 followers I did a Giveaway for a "Wardrobe Wednesday" like sketch. Kristin from one of my favorite blogs, BonBon Rose Girls won the Giveaway. She wanted to save the winnings for a specific outfit. Here is what Kristin waited for...cute! If you follow this super fun and helpful fashion and style blog then you may remember this poncho. If you don't follow it...you should!
Happy Tuesday!

Music Monday : Mandolin Rain

2011-10-17T10:17:00.000-07:00

This morning when I woke up to the cheerful sound of le bebe's crying...it was still dark. It wasn't dark because she woke up early, but because it has been raining for over 24 hours straight in Miami. As I quickly got ready and then zoomed into the kitchen to prep breakfast for her I moved through the morning routine while the rain continued to come down in a way that would make Seattle jealous.
As babykins and I got in the car and the XM started to pipe in tunes, I had to smile when Bruce Hornsby started serenading us with his song Mandolin Rain. I've always loved this song---but on this morning as the rain came down, it seemed like perfection. If you click on this link you'll get to hear the song live in concert. Hope you are having a nice Monday...may it be cooler, sunnier and drier than mine.

Bruce Hornsby Mandolin Rain

Thursday Threads: Kristin Pearce Designs

2011-10-13T12:18:00.001-07:00

Kristin Pearce has been one of my go to jewelry designers in Miami for a few years. Her things are beautifully crafted, classic and impactful. To top it all off...Kristin is one of the nicest people, she's adorbs! ...did I mention she pens a great blog to top it off? How this girl has not been snatched up by a tall, dark and handsome boy is BEYOND me! Kristin is in high holiday gear right now and has trunk shows and bazaar appearances left and right these days. Here are some of the pieces that I want and one that I have and wear often... These earrings are stunning! They are so delicate and perfect for day or night. Yum!

This bracelet is one of my favorites. I wear it along with its sisters I have in other colors all the time to brighten up my wrist for fun occasions!

I saw K wearing this in January and have been wanting one SO bad! SO bad! Isn't it perfect for everyday? Or to layer with other delicate pearls?! Love it! Love all her stuff. Here is her website...happy shopping because she also carries great bags and home goods. She actually will be setting up shop as part of the experiences on the Coral Gables Tour of Kitchens in January (I hope).

Wardrobe Wednesday: Yellow and Blue

2011-10-12T14:38:00.000-07:00

OK---so I had some issues with my skin color here...I promise I was not dipping into the self tanner! Anyhow I'm knee deep in school visits for the museum so I had to dress the part for one of Miami's top prep schools today.
I will say this week you may get 2 "wardrobe" sketches because Friday night I am going to a very fun "costume" gala..."prom theme".
Hope you are having a nice week!

Preppy Mafia Queen: Beth in Color

2011-10-11T19:49:00.000-07:00

Last week I shared my first birthday gift sketch for the Preppy Mafia Queen herself, Beth. This week I would like to show you the final color sketch before I dive into the actual birthday painting. It will be watercolor on paper, but I will go into "Wardrobe Wednesday" mode with it and label out what she is wearing in the picture.
A few of you said you would love to have one of these done of yourself...well it's very do-able! Just email me and I can give you the procedural details. I think you will be pleasantly surprised!

Manly Monday: Chris H.

2011-10-10T18:01:00.000-07:00

My gubby Chris came over tonight for dinner...and he inspired me to sketch him and post a "Manly Monday". What can I say about Chris? He is so adorbs! He is an incredible talent, the most incredible organist/pianist you'll ever meet. He's a splendid cook, he's drop dead adorbs, fit, and dresses impeccably! Did I mention he speaks Francias, a little Espanol AND AND...he the best fairy godfather any little girl could ask for, and that's why he's our wee ones Godfather.

Hope you had a nice Columbus Day! If you had the day off, YAY (so did I) and if you didn't...sorry.

Thursday Threads: Dresses to "Fall" in Love With

2011-10-06T10:38:00.000-07:00

I recently subscribed to People Style Watch (can't get enough magazines!)...and while flipping through the pages I noticed myself marking several pages. The first page I marked was for the top dress, a fun metallic number from Victoria's Secret .

The second page I marked was for this gorgeous maxi dress (which I am wearing today) from...JCPENNY! Yes, you read correctly. Again, this number is under $100 and perfect for the fall! You can dress it up or down and it makes a great statement! I'm wearing it with a thick gold belt and red heels today. Also...if you are a fan of flowy dresses...you'll love it. It looks pretty on a windy day (like we are having today in Miami) without going all Marilyn Monroe!

The past dress did not come from People Style Watch, but from the sales rack at J.Crew. I love Ikat, and the color on this dress is so pretty! I think it would work well in the fall, throw on some tights under this frock with booties or oxford flats...a chunky cardigan maybe even a brown belt...done!

So there you have it, what I am coveting this week (and in some cases what I caved in for).

On another note, I will say like most people I was saddened by the news of Steve Jobs passing. My first computer was a mac, in high school--- and then in college I owned the pretty blue iMac...eventually I got an iPod, and our main home computer is a Mac Mini and this past spring I got an iPad for mother's day. He was our Edison, our da Vinci, our Apple guru. May we all be as inspired and inspiring as Mr. Jobs.

Wardrobe Wednesday: Yesterday and Today

2011-10-05T08:43:00.001-07:00

Happy Wednesday! I thought I would not only include my ensemble from today, but also yesterday's because it too was cute. As usual I combined high and low ticket items to pull my overall look together. What do you think?

Today I am also requesting a press pass for Art Basel. I have gone to Vernissage every year for the past 3 years and other events and parties...but I thought it would be fun to get a press pass this year so that when I am taking pictures for the blog, I don't get creepy looks. Let's hope I get it. If not, I'll use my museum invite and bring my camera anyhow...as usual.

Preppy Mafia Queen: Beth

2011-10-04T15:27:00.000-07:00

Beth Dunn, author, mother, blogger, Preppy Mafia Queen, Mrs. Social Climber herself recently celebrated a birthday. A fun birthday! I love her blog, I love her style, she's great and I want to be Beth when I "grow up". Well, I was emailing with Beth about some flamingos and I told her, "why don't I sketch you" a la "Wardrobe Wednesday" for your birthday?! She loved the idea...and recently sent me the picture.
Here is my first sketch. Isn't she the cutest?! I was so flattered when Beth said this was one of the sweetest gifts she's ever been gifted. I think everyone deserves a portrait of some kind! Mine hangs in my entry hall at home, forever I will be 23 with my french bulldog on my lap.

Puppies and Babies...

2011-10-03T12:06:00.003-07:00

You may recall that I was working on two paintings for my friend Dr. Tania. I finally got around to finishing them last week and delivering them to her. She was happy as happy can be, but apparently her mom loved the painting for Baby A's nursery a little too much and threatened to take it home with her...and Mr. Tania liked the painting of their dogs so much that he wanted to claim it for himself! So, as you can plainly see, everyone was happy.

The painting of the pups was challenging because the dogs are full of energy and love...and are dark as night. So I took artistic liberty and make them a dark blue.

The painting of the 3 owls on the branch is for their daughter's nursery. Dr. Tania didn't want anything with the baby's name or monogram--- she preferred I draw inspiration from the nursery---which is owly. So here you have it, the Dr. Tania family in owl form on a tree.

I now have three more nursery paintings to wrap up and four lockets in hold (my supplier has run out of one of the shapes and I am patiently waiting for it in order to make them!).

I hope you had a good weekend! Mine was great, SMU BEAT TCU (at TCU!)!!!! YEAH MUSTANGS!

Thursday Threads: College Football Gear

2011-09-29T06:20:00.000-07:00

It is college football season. To me this is far more important and exciting than NFL football. The real passion is in NCAA football. I went to SMU which is synonymous with having been given the death penalty in the 80's for blatantly doing what other teams do...pay their players. Anyhow---SMU football is finally getting attention, we have a beautiful stadium on campus (key!) and tailgating is a must every game day up and down the Boulevard.
Last year I missed my 10 year reunion because I was 34+ weeks prego with babykins...so I daydream a lot about going back to the Hilltop and what I would wear to a game. Above is a fantastic selection I found of things I really really want and need in my life. Those red pants and skirt...a MUST!

Do you enjoy NCAA football? Do you have great school gear you put on nearly every weekend?

Wardrobe Wednesday: Shoes

2011-09-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

I must confess...my ensemble is NOT Wednesday Wardrobe worthy today. I'm wearing a maxi dress with an oversized cardigan and sandals. Sounds cute in theory...but not in implimentation. Maybe its the messy hair, maybe its the lack of make-up.

So...today's Wednesday Wardrobe is focussing on the shoes I wore to dinner on Monday night, because ...
1. They are sassy
2. I hardly ever wear heels
3. Love me some Target Missoni!

Hope you are having a great week so far!

Oldie But Goodie

2011-09-27T17:28:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite series of paintings. I call it Circles...this is not what I was going to blog about tonight--- I was going to write about my fall TV schedule...but then the baby didn't nap all day and getting to bed became quite a chore...so here is my blast from the past. I can't believe no one has snatched these up!

Also I would like to let you know I named my T-Rex, Tyrone Rex the King of Educadora. I know you were on pins and needles about it! ;)

Inspiration is All Around Us

2011-09-26T11:13:00.000-07:00

Inspiration is all around us...it's as simple as that. A few months ago while popping in next door to the Miami Art Museum (MAM), I saw this bright green T-Rex and I fell for him. I put off buying him for months...and every time I went over to MAM for a meeting or something I would always check and make sure he was still there. I told my friends at MAM that I was coveting the T-Rex...they smiled and always said, "You should buy him with your discount"...and I would nod and agree.
Last week, I finally decided I was going to do it. It was a particularly stressful week, and I told myself I deserved my desk protector. When I went over to MAM to buy him, there was a mom eyeing him...asking the store attendant how much he cost...all the while I was praying she wouldn't take him away from me, as I KNEW he was the last one.
Fortunately for me, the $30 price tag was not what she had in mind...and as quickly as a bunny can make bunny babies he was mine!
Now the question lies...what do I name him?
Frank?
Rex?
T?

Berg-Squared Locket

2011-09-24T19:01:00.000-07:00

Last week I made a locket for my dear friend Kirsten. She and I have been friends since before our freshman year (we met on a visit to SMU with our moms in tow)...and that's a long time! Her kids are adorable and because of that it was easy to make her locket. Aren't they sweet?
Kirsten was very happy with the end result, and so was I.

Hope you are having a great weekend!

Thursday Threads: Come Fly With Me

2011-09-22T08:09:00.000-07:00

I've always loved great vintage (or vintage inspired) pieces. This Thursday I bring you the latest two things I am coveting. These Pan Am bags are amazing...they are perfect for work or a weekend get away. The top canvas one is REVERSIBLE! ...the blue one is sturdy and bound to stand the test of time.

Both logos were used by Pan American Airways and with the new Pan Am show set to debut on ABC this Sunday, I think that I will not be the only one wanting these beauties. From what I have seen what the ladies on the show will be carrying is the blue Pan Am bag with the logo used from the late 50's through the last days of the airline.

The saddest cruelest thing is that both of these bags sit just 30 feet away from me at the HistoryMiami gift shop! This gem of a museum (if I do say so myself) has an incredible aviation exhibition open currently called Aviation in Miami: the First 100 Years. This means that not only does the gift shop have these bags, but they have all sorts of other Pan Am (and Eastern)treasures such as, koozies, shirts, glasses, wings, name badges and so much more!

So if you want to be a jet set trend setter, either come on down to HistoryMiami or visit the store on the web and snatch up one of these beauties before I do!

Wednesday Wardrobe: Splashes of Color

2011-09-21T12:13:00.000-07:00

It's Wednesday...and I have a confession to make. This is actually what I wore yesterday...today I'm rocking some Old Navy and Tory Burch...same glasses though. I realized that I had only been wearing my wayfarers and not my other 2 options.
Anyhow---I'm finally operating on EST again...took me about 48 hours to get back on track. While I was in California I got two more locket orders and I delivered a nursery painting. So even while on vacation I was working.

...and yes, this is me wearing more Missoni treasures from Target. More things have been creeping back into the stores, have you noticed? I've always been a BIG Missoni fan, so I would have purchased most of the collection if I could have. Since the initial insanity I have also scored some leggings, black tights and a skirt for babykins in a store and I got a present for someone in my family...so I can't make that public. I understand that someone also scored a pair of the heels for me...nice!

I wonder who Target will bring next? Any clues?

Mr. & Mrs. Tall Dark and Handsome

2011-09-20T17:57:00.000-07:00

My friend Singleton in the Kitchen got married to her tall, dark and handsome Prince Charming in the most perfect setting this past weekend. Singleton is one of my favorite people in the entire world. She is the girl who puts a smile on my face just by walking in the room, she's just lovely. That's probably why she and her daddy, the Good Doctor danced to Stevie's "Isn't She Lovely" at her wedding (subsequently I made Mr. D promise he'd dance with our babykins to that song some day). Anyhooo...point is as I mentioned yesterday I was inspired by their wedding and think I know what I want to do as part of their wedding gift. Now...it's up to her. The top one is reminiscent of the tent their cocktail hour was under at Bear Flag Farm and the bottom one is reminiscent of the tent they got married under in the orange grove. I think I am partial to the wedding tent. Which do you like?

California Dreamin'

2011-09-19T19:11:00.001-07:00

Rehearsal Dinner in Sonoma at a Fly Fishing Ranch. Here I am with 2 of my BFFs, Kirsten and Lauren both flew in from Texas to be in the wedding party.

Our Bride, Ms. Singleton with her "SMU" girls. Isn't she the prettiest bride? It because she is glowing with love her Mr. Singleton to be.
I will also say I loved our dresses. You may remember I drew the dress months ago. I'd been so looking forward to this momentous occasion.
Mr. and Mrs. Singleton...aren't they fetching? They got married at one of the prettiest places on earth, the Bear Flag Farm in Winter, CA. The menu was amazing, fresh and personal. The entire wedding was the perfect example of this couple.
Her beautiful Amsale gown was paired with 3.5" Kate Spade red heels which made us think of the Nutcracker. Aren't we cute?
After a drive through Sonoma the day after...we ended up letting the Museum Nerd (me) visit the new California Academy of Sciences. It was amazing...only thing missing was babykins.
At the end of our journey we took in the beautiful views of the bay. I love San Francisco...left my heart there years ago.

So yes, Mr. D and I had a whirlwind trip to "NoCal" for on of my greatest BFFs in the whole wide world, Singleton in the Kitchen. We called Napa our home base, but went to Sonoma, Winter and San Francisco. It was our first time away from the babe...and although we missed her, it was amazing to be surrounded by friends. This was probably hands down the most beautiful, personal and loving weddings I have ever been to. It was joyful and glorious in every sense of the world.

Hope you had a good weekend!

Wardrobe Wednesday: Missoni (Evil Taker Downer of Target Website)

2011-09-14T11:17:00.000-07:00

I was NOT one of the evil people who took the website down--- I was just one of the crazy people in line before 8am. Fortunately everyone in line ranged from a size 0-6...no 10-12's in my bunch which means that I was successful! I got this lovely cardigan I am wearing, a dress and a cardigan for babykins (vraiment j'ai achete 3 autre chose mais mon mari non sais pas!). The only other thing I wanted was a pair of headbands for my friend Singleton in the Kitchen, who is getting married this weekend in Napa! I'm wearing my Missoni dress to her rehearsal on Friday!
...and yes I busted out into my bad french right there! Vive la France!

cSd Lockets

2011-09-13T18:19:00.001-07:00

I love photography. I have owned a camera for as long as I can remember---always snapping pictures. Before digital photography I built the prettiest albums (later referred to as scrapbooks). Then when digital pictures came along I began to build digital books... but I always wanted to do something special with my pictures too. That's when I built my first locket. Inspired by the gold ones my cousin makes, I built a silver one. Soon...people started asking me about it and that's how I decided to make them for others. Above you can see what mine looks like (they are double sided since they are glass encased in sterling silver)...and also above are pictures of the other shapes and sizes. The 2" oval is my personal favorite ($75).

My lockets are a lovely personal gift and something you can literally wear with anything! If you are interested in learning more, just email me at ceci@dubonics.com

Bright and Early Tomorrow Morning

2011-09-12T14:45:00.000-07:00

8am tomorrow! Do you know what you want? I do.

THursday Threads: Post Herald Spot

2011-09-08T19:15:00.000-07:00

I went to Fashion Night Out tonight with my gubby C. We went to Merrick Park in Coral Gables---lots of fun, great cocktails...and while making our way back to Nordstroms from Neiman Marcus, the Miami Herald fashion reporter (or at least one of them) stopped me and asked if I minded getting my picture taken and then answering a few questions. Naturally, I said no... a few pics later, she asked me my name, age, what inspired my ensemble, occupation, what I was wearing, and then she asked about my cSd locket and my blog. So sometime next week in the Herald there will be a picture with a few doodads from moi.

Above is a drawing of what I wore tonight... oh yeah...I'm wearing a bumpit...no joke!

Thursday Threads: Red Jeans

2011-09-08T08:48:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting a pair of red jeans for a while. Quietly hunting for a good pair. Last week while shoe shopping for babykins, I found these amazing red skinny jeans from Old Navy! Yes, I know, I have a problem. So this is what I am wearing today...
1. Ray Ban Wayfarer glasses
2. Silver Tiffany Key
3. Silver cSd picture locket
4. Blue and White Gingham Shirt, Old Navy
5. White Tshirt Cardigan, J.Crew
6. Leopard Print Pony Hair Skinny Belt, Old Navy
7. Red Skinny Jeans, Old Navy
8. Leopard Print Pony Hair Reva Flats, Tory Burch
9. Lots of Bracelets

Wednesday Wardrobe: Denim

2011-09-07T14:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Wednesday! Here's what I've got on today...I will say I went a little overboard on the skin tone...I look like I lathered myself up in some self tanner--- I'm def not that tan at all right now since I've had a stomach flu for 6 days now! I hope you are having a great week.

A Special Gift for a 30th Birthday

2011-09-06T14:36:00.001-07:00

My friend Robin is a very spirited woman. She takes life by the horns, and lives it to the fullest. Her husband Aaron turned 30 today--- and it has been quite a year so far. Robin wanted to make sure that 30 was a birthday Aaron would not forget, so she opted to throw him an over the top surprise party at their house complete with faux mustaches and bartenders. She also opted to give him something not so ordinary...one of my paintings.
One night while at a Junior League meeting Robin slipped me a note that said "Can you paint this?" (the note had a doodle of her vision)...I giggled and said, "Sure." I immediately started sketching my interpretation and Robin was quickly happy with what she saw. Fast forward a couple of weeks for production and for secrecy-- here it is. It's pretty funny...and not like anything I have ever done. There's always a first time for everything.

A Special Something for Baby Jeremy

2011-09-02T11:54:00.000-07:00

My friend J decided to give her friend a really sweet gift for her newborn baby Jeremy. J wanted it to be a total surprise so we had to guess on the size and colors to use. J's friend had NOTHING in the nursery ready to go because she had spent the last 12 weeks of her pregnancy on bed rest.

The end result was this. We used my own sweet baby girl's monogram as inspiration and I think the end result was lovely. I hear that J's friend was really touched by the gift and really loved it. Just goes to show that sometimes the best gifts don't come off a registry.

Thursday Threads: Fall Style on a "Boogeh"

2011-09-01T08:50:00.000-07:00

It's September 1 and this weekend is Labor Day weekend. Although I live in Miami and it will be hot and steamy for the next month and a half--- it is the end of the summer and fall is upon us. I decided to take a look on the Old Navy website and see what goodies I could find for the new season. Here are my favorites...all to be worn with a nice cardigan and would work well with one of those new to die for pencil skirts from J.Crew or a great pair of jeans. This bow tie top from Old Navy also comes in black, but I like the white myself. I tend to wear more white tops than black--- and I thought the bow pops more in the lighter color.

Remember the animal print scarf I posted a couple of weeks ago? Well it's mine now---and though I would never wear it with this shirt--- I love this shirt. Pair this up with a great orange or red skirt...maybe even hot pink! Nice! The sleeveless white bow tie wasn't the only one there. There was also this 3/4 sleeve version of it. It also comes in a pretty copper color, but again I was drawn to the white. Have I mentioned I love white tops? Again, pair this with a pencil skirt or a pair of wide leg trousers for work--- or flared jeans on the weekend. It's a great top!

...and then I found these! I have seen them in real life...and I was tempted when I saw them--- but then I reminded myself I was there for flare jeans and a gingham shirt, not rain boots... These are really fantastic and they come in this great shade of grey too!

I can't help it that Thursday Threads comes so easily from Old Navy-- but now that I'm a mommy...its easier to spend money at Old Navy than at my first love, J.Crew.

Happy Thursday!

XOXO

Wardrobe Wednesday: Pattern Mix Match

2011-08-31T14:00:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh, Wednesday. It's not only Wednesday but it's the last day of August...the summer is really really coming to an end here. Today I spent the morning at the Barnacle Historic House which is a state park today. The air was thick from the humidity and the mosquitoes were out and the trails were wet. As you can see...I was not really dressed for the occasion, in my dress from Pink Chicken and sandals from J.Crew's spring collection 2008.
Now one thing to look at is I did some mix and matching of patterns today. I normally don't do this, but I really liked pairing my gingham with a fun martini print from Vineyard Vines.
Anyhow--- today Mr. cSd is hooking up my new printer so I can start scanning and printing pieces. I'm really looking forward to having that up and running.
Well, I hope you are having a nice week so far. I'm looking forward not only to the long weekend, but college football season kicking off on Saturday!!! YAY!!!

Buttons

2011-08-30T10:50:00.000-07:00

Buttons are so pretty aren't they? They can be simple or complex...they can literally hold things together or figuratively. Pinterest Tree Find

My Family Tree c.2002

When I first started working in museums I would often spend my weekends out in the community working the museum booth with some sort of art activity at whatever festival or event we were there for. Most events would have peaks and lulls...and during the lulls I would make my own "sample" of the art project.

Sometime in the year 2001...maybe 2002 I made this family tree for myself. I had come up with the craft project for the museum for a family festival. It was fun and simple... take yarn for trunk and buttons to represent the people.

Then, recently while on Pinterest I found the image of a button tree! I decided to add it to one of my boards as it reminded me of my tree. I think its time I update my family tree...lots of changes have occurred since 2002! I really think these are pretty and on canvas would look gorgeous...happy to make one for you and your sweet family.

Chevron Colors

2011-08-29T13:02:00.001-07:00

Have I mentioned how much I love a good chevron pattern? I do. One of my very fashion conscience "cousins" has two adorable babies and has asked me to do something for their nursery. Her son is 17 months old and her daughter is nearly 5 months old...and they share a room.

This is going to be my inspiration for their monograms... I think if I slightly change the colors for each of them so they are unique yet complimentary it will look nice in the same space. After all, isn't that what sibling are like? Unique yet complimentary of each other (I wouldn't know)?

Sorry I Missed Thursday Threads...Read and Find Out Why

2011-08-26T07:23:00.000-07:00

Last night was quite the adventure at our casa. I promise you will laugh...and if you have kids...you will feel my pain...our pain. Just visit The Florida Room today and read all about what we were up to!

Wednesday Wardrobe: Turqouise and Silver

2011-08-24T17:21:00.000-07:00

It's here, the school year. Remember when school started AFTER labor day? ...yeah well not anymore. School started and that means traffic is back, school zones in the morning are back and soon at work, our "summer dress code" will go away and we'll be back to business. Everyone is slowly coming back from vacation and talking about what they did where...but not me. This year my "What I Did Over the Summer" essay would go a little something like this...
I worked, spent time with my baby and painted. A lot! The summer may be over for some...but for Mother Nature in Miami...it is far from being over. So today I am wearing a very summer palette...turquoise and silver. I figure as long as the temperature is over 95, the humidity is over 90% and there are hurricanes churning off the coast...it's summer!

Post-It Note Art

2011-08-23T13:33:00.001-07:00

Sometimes inspiration hits you...and all you have around are mini post-it notes (I blame Pinterest!) and ballpoint pens.

Wouldn't these be great paintings?

Happy Tuesday!

Pinterest (*swoon)

2011-08-22T10:42:00.001-07:00

So I finally did it. I joined Pinterest and oh my! It's amazing! Really and truly ...I have been a user of Tumblr for 2 years now---but this takes that to another level. Here I can organize my images into groups so I can not only categorize...but I can actually find! Pinterest is like Tumblr's older and more responsible sister. One of my boards is called, Potential Paintings. Here is an image from that board...I saw this and thought to myself, that is a magnificent way of incorporating a monogram into a design! I love it. I am enjoying adding bits and pieces to all my boards. If you are on Pinterest, feel free to
follow me--- or just take a look at the boards I'm curating.

Happy Monday!

XOXO

Thursday Threads: Scarves

2011-08-18T10:04:00.001-07:00

I love a good scarf (I'm wearing one today). Here's the thing about a scarf...
1. They keep you snug as a bug
2. They can make a plain ensemble POP!
3. They are easy to throw on
4. You can wear them in so many ways
5. Regardless of what your waist is doing--- a scarf (like shoes, bags and jewels) is always there for you!

Here are some great ones I found recently...

This tie-dye infinity boho number is at Old Navy! ...and on SALE! ...who can beat that? I love leopard...it took about 25 years, but I got there and have not looked back. I am going to HAVE to pick this scarf up from Old Navy! Yes...I said OLD NAVY again!

Warning...I do NOT know where these last two scarves came from...I was randomly looking for "pom pom scarves" and found these. Aren't they pretty? I love a pom pom detail on a scarf...makes me happy. That's why I am wearing one today. The rest of my outfit is frump-city...but my scarf is fab! Reason 689 to wear a scarf...it makes a frumpy ensemble look "put together".

I decided to depict my ensemble...so you can see for yourself...that frizzy humid hair and all...a scarf is a lovely bandage!

Wardrobe Wednesday: Shades of Blue

2011-08-17T10:47:00.000-07:00

Good Wednesday! I hope you are having a lovely week...it is hot and steamy in Miami--but no hurricanes for us (in more ways than one-ba-dum-ching) and that is a good thing!
Anyhow, here is today's Wednesday Wardrobe. A lot of blue with a splash of yellow. I knew I was going to be doing teacher trainings all day today, in a hotel...which means one thing...cold! Hence the pants and cardigan.

I'm having a sale of paintings from last fall's show at Books and Books in Coral Gables. To see what is available visit my Facebook Page.You will see in the Books and Books album that there are paintings marked as "Available and on SALE". Drop me a line and I will give you the details. ALSO...if you have not already, go ahead and "LIKE" the page!

XOXO

Bon Fete

2011-08-16T12:10:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe but in 3 short months babykins will be 1! Amazing. So...the anal planner in me is thinking party themes (notice one of my Pinterest boards). I have been a fan of bunting for a while, even thought about putting some sweet bunting in babykins' room...and now with her party in the not so distant future...I am thinking of bunting, pastel color schemes and pom poms. That is where the inspiration for this drawing came. I'm thinking it could be a fun painting for any space. What do you think?
...now I ask you...pom poms, bunting and or pinwheels?