Look So Lovely

For Japan WIth Love - One Year Later

2012-03-11T07:32:00.001-07:00

Today marks the one-year anniversary of Japan's devastating tsunami and earthquake. I cannot believe that a year has already gone by. It felt like just last week I was tearing up every time the news broke with more stories about this terrible natural disaster.

Last year I teamed up with Utterly Engaged and Ever Ours in "Bloggers Day Of Silence." The point of this day was to grow awareness and build support for the people of Japan. Who in turn teamed up with ShleterBox, a company that provides disaster relief kits for people in need. In the first two weeks they raised $66,733 from 1,407 individuals, and had over 1,200 bloggers involved in the Bloggers Day of Silence. Overall, Utterly Engaged and Ever Ours raised $73,000, which equated to helping out approximately 730 people. What incredible numbers!

So now it's a year later, and I wanted to take this day to remember Japan, with love.

xo,
L

*Credit - For donations, information and inspiring stories, go to For Japan With Love

LSL {The Lovely List} - Keep Calm & Carry On

2012-03-10T05:33:00.000-08:00

via

You know these posters. They are everywhere. These Keep Calm and Carry On ones. They are iconic with their simple text and sweet saying. I first gravitated to them when I saw a stack of these posters in a tea shop in SF and fell instantly in love with the bright turquoise reassuring poster. And at only $20 I quickly scooped it up. I have had it framed and in my room since late 2008.

At the time of seeing these sweet posters, I was going through a rather difficult period. I had just learned that I needed to have major surgery on my ankle. It started with going to a referral appointment by myself, thinking it would just be a routine check up. That my ankle had been hurting an extra lot those last couple of months, but that there wasn't much they could do for me. Well, as it turns out, what I thought would be a simple 20-minute office visit turned into a 3-hour one that included two different doctors offices (including a trek thru a parking lot to rush over to another office), three separate x-rays, and a CT scan all hastily and very abruptly thrown in there. There was drawing of pictures by residents of what would be happening during surgery, all types of medical jargon I did not understand, kurt and insensitive surgeons lining up around me to give their "two-sense" on my situation. There was forecasting of surgery timing, hospital stays, and recovery years. (YEARS!) Learning this all of this, all at once, and all by myself was definitely an overload on what I thought would be a simple appointment. I left thinking my life as I knew it, was over. I was feeling so overwhelmed and scared with a mind full of questions that I didn't have the answers to. How am I ever going to walk again? How am I ever going to dance again?

Now looking back on this day, I know that I was completely overreacting. (I should have bought the poster "freak out and call your mom" cause that's definitely what I did) Of course everything would be fine. My friends and family would be there and continue to be there to support me. Three years out of that surgery and I can walk, dance, and limp around with the best of them. But, in that moment the only thing that kept going through my head amid all the chaos was, just "keep calm and carry on." I knew I just had to keep going.

Now, you are probably wondering what the reason was for bringing up that moment in time and these specific posters. Well, I saw this very lovely video, posted by a friend, about the history of the Keep Calm and Carry On posters and it triggered that memory. I hope you enjoy this video and history much as I did!

via Youtube

xo,
L

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Snack Time

2012-03-09T12:04:00.000-08:00

If you know me well, you know I like to eat. And even more than that, you know I like to snack. (Okay love to snack) I always have bags of almonds or some granola bars in my purse or in the car at all times and, definitely a box of crackers on hand at work. Doesn't everyone? But my all-time favorite snack, sometimes I even opt to make it a meal, (and my lovely roommate can attest to this) is toast topped with chunky avocado with a little salt and pepper. I could eat that for every meal, as my last meal, and hell, could even use a slice of that toast right now to hold me over until lunch.

This Foodie Friday I thought I would spice up my favorite snack time meal and add hummus and one roasted tomato to the mix, and make it a slice of extra fancy toast. Enter the lovely Miss Lisa, from With Style and Grace's, 'Hummus and Avocado Toasts with Roasted Tomatoes.' She posted this recipe to Eat Live Run's website and I have been drooling about it ever since I discovered it.

Hummus and Avocado Toasts with Roasted Tomatoes

{via Eat Live Run by With Style & Grace}

Makes 6 – 8 party bites

Ingredients:

6-8 slices of bread

1/2 cup hummus

1 avocado – halved, pitted and peeled

4 plum tomatoes, halved lengthwise, cores and seeds removed

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

salt + pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.

Arrange the tomatoes on your baking sheet, cut sides up, in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.

Roast for 25-30 minutes, until the tomatoes are beginning to caramelize.

While the tomatoes roast, toast your bread. Using a cookie cutter or circular object, cut out 1-2 circles per toast, depending on how big the piece of bread is.

Spread 1/2-1 tablespoon of hummus on each circular toast.

In a bowl or plate, mash avocado with a fork, leaving large chunks.

Layer the mashed avocado over hummus, season with salt + pepper, and then top with a roasted [or fresh] tomato.

Serve immediately.

What's your favorite easy snack time meal? Does it involve toast or avocado? Is anyone else as obsessed with avocados as I am? I am so thankful to be a Californian, avocados all year!

Bon Appetit and Happy Weekend!
xo,
L

Promising in Peplum

2012-03-08T14:32:00.001-08:00

Peplum is "a short overskirt that is usually attached to a fitted jacket, blouse or dress." (thankyouwiki) And if you are anything like me, you have noticed this look has blown up all over the blog-o-sphere lately. I know the peplum style has been around for a while, but it seems to be coming back with even more gusto than before. I remember a specific peplum-style jacket I bought myself with my babysitting money back in high school, I wore the hell out of it. I don't remember it being a particularly flattering look since it hit at my generous-sized hip area and not at my smaller, more flattering, waist area, but I sure didn't seem to care.

I'm glad this look coming back into fashion and think my favorite, my most wish-I-could-wear-it-myself, look is the peplum style dresses. They just scream such a 1950's lady-like, retro, Audrey Hepburn vibe. If only I wasn't blessed with those my damn hips and thighs, I would be all over this. But, even though I believe the dress/skirt style is not for moi, the peplum-style can look great in short jackets and shirt styles too.

Check out these lovelies for yourself...

And now for my favorite part, let's go shopping...all pictures are linked to their stores, below

Yes please, to the J.Crew floral shirt. Thankyouverymuch.

And a holy hell, I need that white jacket!

What do you think of the peplum look? Fan? Not a fan? Anything in particular you need on that shopping list? (cough...that white jacket...cough) Did you have any wonderful "looks" that you rocked in high school that might not have been so fashionable then...or now?

Oh, and did I forget to mention that I might have been a slight tom-boy all for most of HS and, in addition, also thought of myself as a super soccer star (even though I only made it to the JV team...whatever!) so I mostly only wore that Adidas brand. Yeah, that with my peplum-style jacket, probably not my finest look.

xo,

*Credit - Photos: 1/2, 3, 4/5, 6/7

Shopping: 1/2, 3/4/5, 6/7, 8/9, 10/11, 12/13

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Cheapy Pasta Primavera

2012-03-02T07:35:00.091-08:00

So yeah, I do a lot of pasta posts, I know! But how can you not like a good, warm bowl of pasta, add a little cheese or some marinara, and you are good as golden.

I have been working a bit more than usual lately and that means little to no lunches, home late, and definitely no Safeway runs over easy (and cheap) take-out. Well last night I thought it would be good to come home and see if I could make something out of the very few food items in my house. It turns out when ridiculously hungry and add a tiny bit of an imaginative mind one can create a really delicious meal. Now, this is no Rachel Ray, 'look all the random spices I just happen to have on hand,' no this is I have some frozen vegetables, some pasta, a little cheese, some mustard, hot sauce and go. Well, I ditched the mustard and created myself a rather delicious and probably nutritious meal. Enter LSL's Cheapy Pasta Primavera.

Taken by moi
Excuse my very grainy, slightly yellow-ish iPhone pic

I made this with just me in mind, but you can surely modify it to serve more, however, not sure if you would want to subject too many people to it though. ;)

LSL's Cheapy Pasta Primavera

Ingredients-

1 - 2 cups wheat or rice pasta

1 package of Green Giant's 'Antioxidant Blend' veggies (steams in a bag kind)

Parmesan cheese

Slap Ya Mama cajun seasoning

Directions

Once water is boiling, add pasta and cook for what the time states.

At about 4 1/2 minutes to go with the pasta, pop those bad boy veggies in the microwave and heat.

Strain noodles and rinse, add veggies to pasta, then cheese and if you like it spicy like I do, slap ya mama seasoning. Salt and pepper if desired and viola!

Pour a glass of wine, serve and enjoy.

I know I'm not reinventing the wheel with finding items in my home and throwing it together and making a dinner. I think our mothers are the masters at that. And I by no means think this is creative...but if you know me and my cooking "skills" you'll know this is pretty darn good.

Do you have any easy throw together meals that are your staples? Any cheapy recipes I should be enjoying, like tomorrow night? I figure this meal costs about $6, so that's more money to spend on more important things like wine and dessert.

Bon Appetit and Happy Weekend!

xo,

February Photo Challenge - Completed

2012-03-01T13:34:00.001-08:00

If you remember this post, you will know that I had decided to challenge myself to a photo-a-day for the whole month of February. This challenge, created by Fat Mum Slim, was a lot of fun. And, if I could baby-step my way into my monthly challenges, a photo-a-day one was great to start out with and get my feet a little wet. It felt a bit like homework, in the good sense, I knew I had to be responsible to take a picture of something everyday and it became an interesting way to test myself to think out of the box for my photographs.

Here is my completed challenge, all 29 days of it...

1. Your view- where I sit five days out of my week, mostly staring at the computer // 2. Words- a particularly powerful paragraph out of 'The Happiness Project,' that I am currently reading // 3. Hands- just finished painting my nails // 4. Strangers- sitting at Starbucks with the wonderful Liz Lovi doing some collab work // 5. 10am- make-up time, me lazily getting ready for the day // 6. Dinner- out with Miss S for some sushi // 7. Button- my favorite white coat with black buttons // 8. Sun- middle of the day sunshine // 9. Front door- the outside door to my work // 10. Self-portrait- me right before bed time // 11. Makes you happy- I found mint dark chocolate M&M's, need I say more? // 12. Inside your closet- my very overstuffed clothes // 13. Blue- I remember we had very little sun that day, so as soon as the rain stopped and the clouds opened up I ran outside and snapped up some pretty pictures // 14. Heart- Happy Valentine's Day, these hearts were from a present I was giving out // 15. Phone- you can barely see my leopard phone case in this picture, but the flash did something cool with the mirror // 16. Something new- got a snazzy new blazer with fun buttons // 17. Time- anxiously waiting to leave for a weekend trip to Tahoe // 18. Drink- celebrating a weekend away with cocktails, duh // 19. Something that you hate to do- well, turns out I hate walking on slippery, icy, cold snow. Must be something to do with my fragile ankle ;) // 20. Handwriting- lyrics to one of my favorite songs at the moment, "After the Storm" by Mumford & Sons // 21. Favorite photo of me- this is way back in 1984/85 of my brother and I. I love how cute we were but also my fabulous outfit: pink leotard WITH silver sequins, pink tutu, white tights, white turtleneck, then all accessorized with a while lace bow. haha // 22. Where I work- looks a lot like picture #1 but this is my messy work space // 23. Your shoes- this was an exciting day, the day I found out I can wear two shoes without my brace // 24. Inside your bathroom closet- my perfumes // 25. Green- my terrarium is still alive (even though I accidentally watered it with Febreeze fabric softener instead of a water bottle. My defense is that they were both blue spray bottles, it could happen to anyone.) // 26. Night- a very dark, cold and windy night this picture was // 27. Something you ate- my nightly staple, a dark chocolate Dove candy // 28. Money- my favorite kind of "money" - gift cards // 29. Something that I'm listening to- Wye Oak was introduced to me from a friend and I put them into my Pandora rotation and I really like them. // 29 1/2. February Challenge list is my 'add one for good luck.'

So, if you are interested in trying this challenge for yourself, Fat Mum Slim has created a March one as well. Get your cameras or phones ready to start taking some pictures, then post to either Facebook or Instagram with the hashtag #Marchphotoaday and have some fun. I would love to know if you have done the February challenge or if you decide to participate in the March one, you can always email me photos (looksolovelyblog@gmail.com) or friend me on Instagram (Miss_Lovelylsl). I would love to see your progress.

Happy challenging!
xo,
L

Shoe Shopping

2012-02-28T13:01:00.000-08:00

I got some really great news on Wednesday regarding my ankle and it's progress. If you remember in this post, I told you the condensed version of my unique case. Well, after a very patient three years I finally, finally got my first piece of really good news as well as the best sentence a gal in my position could hear, my bones are finally growing together and I got the clearance to start wearing shoes without my brace! Ohmygod! Needless to say I was stunned and had to have my doctor repeat herself. It won't be as easy to just start walking around town with regular shoes, I will have to build my tolerance and ankle strength, but it was all the clearance I needed to start shoe shopping!

You have to remember that I haven't worn anything but a cast, then a brace on my ankle and foot for three years. Three years of coveting cute flats all around town. Now once I get a pair that feels good, I picture you'll be seeing me skipping all over town. And, feel free to compliment me on my cute NEW shoes! (haha)

What shoes have you been coveting lately? Is there any flats (besides a pair of highly desired Tory Burch's that I just demand to own) that I need? Any sandals that are a must for this summer? Spill! I have a three year shoe shopping spree to catch up on.

I can't stop smiling!

xo,

*Credit - 1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8/9/10/11

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Lemon Blueberry Pancakes

2012-02-24T11:54:00.001-08:00

Apparently Mardi Gars and Fat Tuesday are synonymous with Pancake Day. I had no idea that was even a tradition, but I enjoy pancakes from time to time and hopefully you do to. I know I'm a little late in the game for Fat Pancake Tuesday (what I now will be calling it) but only by a few days, so I say, let's makes some pancakes! Most weekend mornings I wake up with a craving of blueberry or banana pancakes and I am not even that big of a flapjack kind of gal. I love a good egg dish and french toast is more my scene. But to honor the Fat Pancake Tuesday, I thought this Food Friday would be as good as any (just pretend it was four days ago!)

I found this very delicious recipe via the fantastic Ree Drummond aka The Pioneer Woman. She has a serious gift in the kitchen. I think this recipe will be a nice twist to the traditional plain pancakes I've made in the past and this one even involves blueberries and lemon. So without futrher ado, today's pancake recipe is Lemon Blueberry Pancakes...

Lemon Blueberry Pancakes

{via Ree Drummond, The Pioneer Woman}

Prep Time 10 Minutes, Cook Time 10 Minutes

Servings 4

Ingredients

1 1/2 cup Cake Flour

1 Tablespoon (additional) Cake Flour

1/4 teaspoons Salt

1 Tablespoon (heaping) Baking Powder

3 Tablespoons Sugar

1 1/2 cup Evaporated Milk (more If Needed)

1 whole Lemon (more If Needed)

1 whole Large Egg

1 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla

2 Tablespoons Butter, Melted

Zest From 1 Lemon

1 cup Heaping Blueberries

Extra Butter

Maple Or Pancake Syrup

Instructions

1. Heat heavy skillet or grill over medium low heat.

2. In a medium bowl, mix flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Set aside.

3. In a separate bowl, mix evaporated milk, juice of 1 lemon (more if lemon isn’t very juicy), and lemon zest. Allow to sit for five minutes, then add egg, vanilla, and melted butter. Mix to combine.

4. Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients. Stir gently to combine. Splash in more evaporated milk if mixture is overly thick. Stir in blueberries. Again, check to make sure mixture isn’t overly thick.

5. Melt butter in heated skillet. Drop batter by 1/4 cup measures and fry pancakes on both sides until golden.

6. Serve with softened butter and warm syrup

Ree also has just published her second cookbook, "Food From My Frontier" that I cannot wait to get my hot little hands on. You can check out her thoughts on the cookbook process as well where to find your own copy, here.

Did you have any fun Mardi Gras/Fat Pancake Tuesday plans? What is your favorite breakfast item to crave on the weekends? Any exciting cooking endeavors you're taking on this weekend?

Bon appetit and happy weekend!

xo,

LSL {Housetour} - Estate of Grace, Tory Burch

2012-02-23T11:18:00.000-08:00

While perusing around Vogue's website, I stumbled upon Miss Tory Burch's new Southampton home and, wow oh wow is it amazing! I adore TB's fashion sense and to me she is the epitome of style and grace. I don't think there is a piece of clothing from any of her many lines that I wouldn't want to own. And don't even get me started on her accessory line, I'm seriously in love with every. single. piece.

Hamish Bowles states it perfectly in describing Tory's 1920's style home, how it seems like it's a house one might find described within the pages of The Great Gatsby. "It is the sort of house that Jay Gatsby might have built to bedazzle Daisy Buchanan and win her heart back again..." With the long dramatic driveway, the beautiful way Tory designed the outdoor dining in her pool house with the use of the black trellis accents. What I appreciate most is how Tory isn't afraid of mixing patterns and textures, which also seems to mirror in her clothing designs, and can be seem throughout the house. How amazing it would be to take this housetour in real life? For now I'll daydream by re-reading my worn out copy of The Great Gastby and picturing myself walking through this beautiful estate and checking out all her lovely treasures.

Now on to my favorite game, what's your favorite part? Mine would have to be that beautiful chandelier in the above picture, or is it the wallpaper in the shown in the living room, (picture 4) or is it the pool house? Ahh, I just can't decide. What do you think of Tory's Southampton home?

xo,
L

*Credit - Vogue - Article by Hamish Bowles, photos by Norman Jean Roy & Francois Halard

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Tomato & Basil Soup

2012-02-17T06:33:00.002-08:00

As you saw in yesterday's post, I am heading to the snow this weekend. And since I am normally cold in just 68 degree weather, I can imagine that I might actually turn to a ball of ice when dealing with actual freezing temperatures. Good luck to me.

I know I am going to need something to keep me warm and why not enjoy one of my favorite types of comfort food soups, Tomato Basil. While trying to find the perfect Tomato Basil soup recipe I stumbled on to Everyday Occasions, where Jenny's version looks extra delicious and with that, it seems like I will keep from freezing totally to death, at least for this weekend.

Tomato Basil Soup

{via Everyday Occasions}

Ingredients-

3 cloves of garlic, minced

2 tablespoons of olive oil

2 - 14 oz. cans of crushed tomatoes

1 - 14 oz. can of whole tomatoes

2 cups of stock (chicken or vegetable)

1 tsp of sea salt

1 tsp of sugar

1/2 tsp of fresh ground black pepper

1/4 cup of heavy cream

3 tablespoons of fresh basil, julienned

parmesan cheese

Directions-

In a saucepan, saute garlic in olive oil on medium heat for 1 minute - being careful not to burn the garlic. Add the crushed tomatoes. Add the whole tomatoes one at a time, squeezing them into the pan to break them up. Add the juice from the whole tomatoes, as well. Add chicken stock, salt, pepper and sugar. Cook the soup on medium at a simmer for 10 minutes.

To finish, reduce the heat to low and stir in heavy cream and basil. Serve topped with parmesan cheese or a grilled cheese sando.

What is your favorite go-to to get warm food? Have any delicious soup recipes you would like to share with me? Any fun things planned for this long weekend? Talk to me.

Bon appetit and happy weekend!

xo,

LSL {Housetour} - Cabin Fever

2012-02-16T10:27:00.000-08:00

I am heading to the snow this weekend. Well, that is if Tahoe even has snow on the ground this week. I think so? I hope so! I can't remember the last time I was up to Tahoe in the winter. Sadly it might have even been up to five years ago or more. (Yikes!) Personally I am not built for the snow (sorry my cabin friends for all my complaining in advance) I adore Tahoe in the summer; sunbathing on the beach, swimming in the lake, and being on a boat is one of my favorite things in the whole world. Basically the complete opposite of being bundled up, skiing, and slipping and sliding in the snow. Since it's been so long, I am looking forward to frolicking in the snow again, and when I say frolick, I mean drinking hot toddies and catching up on my books and gossip mags.

I have been lusting after this cabin house for some time now. THIS is how I picture my weekend in the snow. All bundled up in that Hermes blanket, reading one of the many books featured in their fancy library, and then taking a nice bubble bath in that incredible tub. Oh how a girl can dream. I imagine the cabin we'll be staying at is the exact opposite of this lovely abode.

I die. I can just picture myself curled up on one of these fab velvet couches listening to the crackling fire.

Gah! Bunk beds with their own personal curtains. When can I move in?

A sunroom! Okay I just died again. I cannot get over how amazing this winter wonderland is.

Happy long weekend lovelies! Foodie Friday is still on for tomorrow but I'll be back on Monday or Tuesday with some more regularly scheduled broadcasting. That is if I don't turn into a Lauricle there. (see what I did there...a Lauren icicle. Haha. As long as I'm the only one that thinks I'm funny.)

xo,

*Credit - via Elle Decor and photos via Miguel Flores-Vianna

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T07:05:00.000-08:00

via Ju Bella

Happy Valentine's Day! Wishing you a super romantic, over-the-top, oohey-gooey day! Okay, so I'm not one of those girls that overly loves or really hates Valentine's Day, I'm in the middle of the road about it. I think the idea behind it is sweet enough and, in my book, a cute candy conversation heart never hurt anyone. Basically it's a free 'PDA day without the judgement' is all. Sure if making out in public floats your boat, well lucky you, today's the day!

I made a gift guide or possible outfit look for you to go off of; whether you are wanting to find a little romantic something for your lady friend, or need outfit inspiration, this is for you...

Okay, isn't that bow darling? And those macarons look too good to eat. I have to say if a Valentine's date of mine ever got me that sweet xo necklace I would probably die a happy woman, serious swooning happening over here.

What are your Valentine's Day plans? Have any thoughts about this PDA day? Love it? Hate it?

xoxo (an extra xo is added for the day) ;)

*Credits - hearts/dress/earrings/perfume/panties/macarons/shoes+hearts/lipsticks/champs/xo/bow

LSL {Thoughts & Quotes} - Get Real

2012-02-13T09:57:00.000-08:00

I thought I would take a different, more serious approach to this post. I don't normally post anything too personal or talk too much about who that "L" is behind LSL. Well, Lauren is my name and blogging is my game. Ok, bad rhyming aside, I thought I would take this time to tell you a little about who I am and what I am really about. Not just a floating head on the web. (Ooops see there I go again.) Warning, this is the longest post to LSL date.

On Look So Lovely's name- I tend to say lovely a lot and I also tend to point to things or people on the street that I think look cool or different or pretty or weird or really anything...and, like most people say, "look!" I tend to be a bit of a people watcher/general looky-loo. So that is where I came up with Look So Lovely. It was by chance, it popped into my head, and happily it was available for the blog taking.

I originally went to school for Psychology and thought, once graduated I would save the world. Really for most of my four years my dream was to have a non-profit of my own and help people, or kids, or animals. I had a lot of causes I wanted to contribute too. And when working while up at school, I again spent most of my four years there, working in a school/after school setting and in the nights at a homeless shelter. It was hands down one of the most rewarding experiences but also one of the hardest. I still think about some of the kids that I connected with. Then when I moved home from school, I got a job at a small women's fashion boutique and it felt like in a short amount of time I got so wrapped up in the material side of fashion that I completely left all my saving the world passions to the waist side. After the boutique I went to a more major fashion house retailer and moved up the line there, ultimately ending in a management roll. And I. hated. it. Don't get my wrong, fashion and style still are a big part of who I am, but seeing some of the underbelly of that business really turns you off. I left after a few years and haven't looked back. I went back to my so-called "roots" and am working in a school again. Not as a teacher though, but now as an administrator. And, I think I am still trying to figure out what I want to be when I grow up. Hopefully I'll figure it out sooner than later. And hopefully it will involve LSL in some part of my life.

I have one really bum ankle. The friends and family that read this know all about this one. If you were to look at any of my pictures on here (there are only a few) you will see that I never show the bottom half of myself. That's because a cast/cast looking brace aren't very attractive. To me. To give you the short of it, in HS they found a Giant Cell Tumor in my left ankle and removed it right away, (benign, thankfully!) reconstructed it, and I was back and on my way. I stopped all running style sports (good bye soccer and tennis) and started swimming and riding bikes instead. It was sufficient for the time being, but then 10 years later my ankle started deteriorating and I had to get it fixed. Immediately. And the pain. Oh the pain was unbearable. So I had it reconstructed again, this time much more fancy like, (lots of medical jargon to describe what they did) but basically took out a bone, put that bone into another one and fused it all together. I had this done in 2009 and I just celebrated the three year anny of it. It was a lot to get time back to where I am right now, wheelchair for three months, crutches for over a year, a cane for about six more months on top of that. However, I am now walking free of any assistance, except with my permanent brace (for about a year now) and cannot be happier. I still have a road of recovery ahead of me, but I feel much stronger (physically and mentally) than I ever had before. I am very thankful for all the support and especially thankful for the talented team of doctors that put me back together. So, when you see me out and about and I have a funky left foot brace thing on, pay it no mind, it’s hard finding shoes that fit that sucker, let alone cute ones.

There you go

I am a sucker for a bargain. I hate paying full price for anything and usually won't. I can be seen at any sale rack, bargin bin and am kinda cheap about it. I love Target, H&M and I would be friends (if H or M were a person), Nordies Rack, yes please. I can't remember the last time I spent full price on anything. And the steeper the discounts the happier I become. I think it must be the thrill of the hunt.

I love to be crafty and sadly don’t seem to make much time for it anymore. I love making jewelry and get such enjoyment when complimented on something I have created. Most of my family is filled with talented artists, and sadly that gene didn’t pass to me. I cannot seem to draw for the life of me and painting seems to stress me out. But making jewelry is fun and calms me. I hope for this next year to make more time to create and maybe even sell (if I could be so bold).

I am not a writer, nor do I claim to be. And, I know I can be very liberal with my commas. Too liberal. I didn't even minor in English and writing was always a subject that I detested. But as I got out of school and all the mandatory papers that went with it, I started to enjoy it. My BFF and I would write long chapter-style emails back and forth of all our dating woos. We even debated on trying to write a how-to of the 'do's and mostly don'ts of dating.' Between the two of us we have some very entertaining doozies and that's what spurred my 'like' of writing. I still think that it would be fun to try and get the book going again, now that I am enjoying my single life again. And maybe some day I'll share some of the dozies, but that my friends, is for another time.

Speaking of single, yes it’s true. I am very private about this part of my life and for the most part will continue to keep it that way. (unless I get the urge to test out my dating idea book chapters.) But my long and short of it story goes like this, I was in a relationship that I thought would be "it." The One. But life and people change and it ended. These things teach you valuable lessons when you choose to look for them. It’s cliché, but I do believe that everything works out in the end the way it does for a reason and where I am now, I have to say, I’m quite happy with.

I’ll end this novel of a post up by saying, thank you. Thank you again, to the ones that read everyday (or every week or month) I really appreciate it and I hope that something in my life can either inspire you or support wherever you are in your own life. I would love feedback. If you would like to see more of something on LSL or less of something (be gentle) please let me know. And as you might have seen on Saturday’s post, I am going to try and take a more personal approach here and write more from my actual life (that is if it’s interesting enough) However, I have realized through this blogging life that I am actually quite shy with talking about myself and also promoting this site. (now if you met me you would know that I am quite the opposite, I usually never stop chatting.) So, I would love if you too would spread the word about LSL and hopefully through the course of this next year I will get some more followers and make some new friends.

xo,

It's my ONE year Blogiversary!

2012-02-11T05:03:00.000-08:00

Oh my god! I can't believe it, I have been blogging for a whole year! I started exactly a year ago with this little post on February 11, 2011.

Before I started up LSL and really got my vision to the computer screen, I knew I had wanted to do this for some time. I'm not the most tech savvy or on the up and up with the world of blogging, but I had a daily addiction to reading home and fashion blogs and I knew I too wanted to be a part of it.

In celebrating my ONE year, I got together with one of my besties in SF and we had the fun idea to revisit this post and take some happy one year LSL, photos.

I also want to take this moment and thank you, my lovely readers and followers, for supporting me and encouraging me. Without you, I would not be so motivated and excited to write each and every post. I have some goals in store for this upcoming year and would love to promise that I will post everyday, but I know with working full-time, that might not happen. But, I can promise to try to make this more of a personal space, show more of myself and my life (another teaser, check back Monday) and would love you to keep following right along with me. Oh and apparently I'm finally up on the times and now have an official LSL Twitter account (@looksolovely) so follow me there too and then please teach me how to use it.

THANK YOU!
xo
L

PS. Credit to Miss Liz Lovi (as you can see just so happens to be an amazing photographer, you should really check her out if you're in CA.) Also on Liz's website she did a short interview with me and there are a few more pics from our SF day.

PPS. AND, to add to my gushing of Miss Liz, Monday, 2/13/12, she was featured on Style Me Pretty for an amazing Sonoma Wedding she photographed. Talk about talent!

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Cocktail Time

2012-02-10T12:37:00.001-08:00

I was thinking that after a long week and an exciting milestone coming up, I would celebrate this Foodie Friday with a cocktail. This is my favorite going out on the town drink. I can usually be spotted out with a plain glass of champers, but with any special occasion (okay, or really any Friday night) I like to class it up with some cassis and a lemon twist. Which reminds me of this NYE night that I just "had" to make an emergency cassis/chambord liquor store run close to midnight because it was NYE, the most special of all occasions. Extra classy, I know.

via The Bubbly Girl

Kir Royale
{I usually just eyeball it, but this measured recipe is via The Bubbly Girl}

1/2 ounce crème de cassis

5 to 6 ounces brut champagne, chilled

Lemon twist, for garnish

Add crème de cassis to a champagne flute. Top with champagne and garnish with a lemon twist. Viola.

Sip frequently and enjoy!

Apparently there is also a "skinny" version that Ms. Frankel promotes, it doesn't sound half as enjoyable, but for any gal that's interested, here you go.

What is your favorite cocktail? Do you have a go-to drink when you go out? Or when you are celebrating something, like me? And, don't forget to check back tomorrow for that milestone I mentioned.

Bon appetit and happy weekend!

xo,

Remember

2012-02-08T12:16:00.000-08:00

via The Creative Paige

Found this quote and think it is a lovely daily reminder. It's nice to remember to have your heart in your thoughts, actions and feelings, whatever those "things" might be. If its just going through your daily actions at work or trying something that is new and out of your comfort zone, remember, a little love goes a long way.

There is some exciting stuff happening here on LSL in the very near future (cough, cough Saturday) so look out!

xo,
L

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Tortellini with Mushrooms & Pancetta

2012-02-03T07:33:00.001-08:00

This is my most favorite recipe to make. It's easy, it's delicious and it has cheesy tortellini involved. What more could a hungry girl ask for? I found this recipe through Cooking Light back when I was attempting to be more domestic and made it quite a few times, even received happy and satisfied responses. (Shocking, I know) I like this recipe because you get that pasta craving fulfilled but it's a light dish so you don't feel so heavy (and sleepy) once finished. And depending when you add the spinach portion, you could easily save for leftovers. Bonus points.

Fresh Tortellini with Mushrooms and Pancetta

Serves 4

Prep Time: 8 Minutes, Cook Time: 12 Minutes

Ingredients

1 (9-ounce) package fresh cheese tortellini (such as DiGiorno)

3 ounces pancetta, diced

1 cup prechopped onion

1 teaspoon bottled minced garlic

1 (8-ounce) package presliced cremini mushrooms

2 cups bagged baby spinach

1 cup organic vegetable broth (such as Swanson Certified Organic)

1/2 cup sun-dried tomato bits

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup (1 ounce) preshredded Parmesan cheese

Preparation

Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat; drain and keep warm. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; add pancetta. Cook 5 minutes or until almost crisp, stirring occasionally; drain. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms; cook 4 minutes or until onion is tender, stirring frequently. Add spinach, broth, tomato, and pepper. Cook 2 minutes or until spinach wilts, stirring constantly. Toss with pasta. Divide evenly among 4 bowls. Sprinkle evenly with cheese.

I have made this with both vegetable stock and chicken stock and I lean towards liking the chicken stock a bit better, gives it a little more flavor. And, if this recipe couldn't be any more of a winner in my book, it's a mere 333 calories per serving. So, for us ladies trying to stick to our NY resolutions, it's practically a freebie.

Bon appetit and Happy Weekend!

xo,

Photo Challenge

2012-02-01T13:26:00.000-08:00

I recently saw this Tedtalk by Matt Cutts about trying something new for 30 days. Needless to say I was inspired, this is the kind of resolution that I can get behind. You can do anything for 30 days. I was particularly moved by the thought that these 30 days will pass by whether or not you do something. So why not try something, anything for 30 days. I decided to take the first month off and organize what I wanted to do for each of my 11 months. My plan for February would be to take a photo a day. Coincidentally, this seems to be a popular challenge, all over my instagram I saw this going on for January and I. wanted. in.

Fat Mum Slim came up with this month's challenge.

I plan to share my 30 photo days with you when it's complete and if this inspires you to do the same, I would love to check out what your day-to-day is as well. #febphotoaday

xo,
L

Springtime

2012-01-30T13:05:00.000-08:00

J. Crew's Collection, a line of limited-edition, high-end luxury clothing, is debuting next Monday and as you can see it is gorge-ous! I know that Fall is usually my favorite of all shopping seasons but I can't help but smile when the spring collections launch. Bright colors and warm weather are just around the corner. And, wowza there are a few piece that I have my eye on this spring, that green sequin skirt, (where I would wear, I have NO idea but I have to have) that all yellow outfit, and that blue striped skirt paired with a chambray shirt, I die. But one item that is at the top of my color-coordinated list is that green purse. I don't how I've lived my whole life without it? A little dramatic, yeah, so what.

J.Crew's Collection may not be on my frugalista list but also launching next week on Sunday, February 5th (Superbowl Sunday for you fellas) is Jason Wu's collection for Tar-jay. With the whole Missoni fiasco (me mistakenly showing up at noon on launch day thinking there would still be something left...sob) I am getting it right this time and setting le alarm clock for early. Move outta my way ladies, I'm out for ~~blood~~ woman's fashions.

xo,

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Bake 'em Eggs

2012-01-27T12:57:00.001-08:00

Happy Friday! I have been in one of those comfort food moods lately and have been especially craving the breakfast kind. I am of the type that believes cereal should be a food group and will eat it at any point during the day or night. However, it's nice to change up the simple cereal routine and have a nice hot breaky now and again. This recipe seems to me to be a perfect combination of easy and delicious. Extra emphasis on the easy.

Baked Eggs

{via Use Real Butter}

Ingredients

1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened 

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated 

1/2 tsp fresh rosemary, minced 

1/2 tsp fresh thyme, minced 

1 tbsp fresh parsley, minced 

8 eggs

4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled 

1/4 cup kale, sautéed and chopped 

salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Heat oven to 375°F. Butter four ramekins. Combine the cheese and herbs in a small bowl. Crack two eggs into a bowl or cup, taking care not to break the yolks. Pour the two eggs into a ramekin and repeat until all four ramekins have eggs. Sprinkle bacon, kale, and the cheese-herb blend over the eggs. Finish with a dash of salt and freshly ground pepper. Bake the eggs for 10-15 minutes until the eggs have achieved desired doneness: less time for runny yolks, more time for firm yolks. Keep in mind that shallow ramekins will cook faster than deeper ramekins. Serve immediately.

How very simple. Keep in mind the above recipe is gluten free and could easily be personalized with different ingredients. I think mine would include spinach, mushrooms, bacon, and some light cheese. What combination would you conjure up?

Whew, this post is making me hungry! I can't wait to wake up and make this for myself tomorrow morning. Yum!

Bon appetit and happy weekend lovelies!

xo,
L

*Credit - recipe and photo via Use Real Butter

Laughternoon break

2012-01-26T10:17:00.000-08:00

So these 'Sh*t Girls Say' videos are all over the web and they are hilarious. I think I'm actually kind of addicted to watching them and love that people keep coming up with new ones. Some of the highlights are 'Sh*t SF Girls Say,' 'Sh*t LA girls say,' 'Sh*t New Yorkers Say,' but hands down my favorite out of the bunch is, 'Sh*t Fashion Girls Say' Part I and II. (I won't tell you how many times I've watched them, but you can probably count it on two hands) This "lady" seriously makes this video. Check it out for yourself, it's definitely a nice laughternoon break

Part I

Part II

Dont' you think it's like so chic? Like mega chic.

And if you feel like going back for one more, check out the blooper reel. Again, it's hilarious. Thank you to the person or persons that started this trend, it has been a big fantastic time suck for me.

xo,

*Credit - youtube.com

Seeing Double

2012-01-24T15:29:00.000-08:00

I love how fashion and interiors seem to go hand and hand, one can easily inspire the other and vise versa. While going thru my, much overdue for a serious cleaning, closet to figure out what to wear for work today, I found a top that I hadn't seen in a while. Hiding in the very back was my black and white silk patterned blouse that I have always thought was sometimes just too beautiful to wear. I then got to thinking how it would look so pretty as an inspiration piece in a future home.

So, I ~~dashed~~ took to my favorite site, Pinterest, and decided to play a game of doubles. It was fun seeing this early morning thought come to life and finding pieces that compliment each other come from the street and take life in the home.

Have you ever found something in your closet that you would love to use as inspiration for a color palette for your new bedroom design? Or thought to yourself how your favorite cashmere sweater would make a fabulous throw? Just me? Well then, does anyone other than me need to seriously tackle their closet? (NY's resolution I'm going to eventually work on.)

Well, hope you enjoy this game of doubles.

xo,

*Credit - 1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8/9/10/11/12

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Individual Seven-Layer Dips

2012-01-20T10:04:00.001-08:00

The big game is this Sunday and even though I am not a huge football fan I will be cheering, loudly, for my home team Niners to a (very hopeful) victory this Sunday. Along with the cheering and how excited everyone seems to get (like they are actually playing in the game as opposed to just watching and supporting from afar) I think my favorite part of football Sundays is the food. You know, next to the commercials come Superbowl Sunday.

This foodie Friday is a great twist on a dip classic. I love seven layer dip as much as the next girl and seem to have a little bit of an issue of knowing when to stop shoving it in my face. So, when I saw this recipe on Pinterest and was completely intrigued. Individual Seven-Layer Dips? Yes, please.

Individual Seven-Layer Dips

{via The Girl Who Ate Everything}

Makes about 8 individual dips

*Note: All measurements are approximate. Depending on whether you want thicker or thinner layers you will need more or less.

Ingredients:

1 (16 ounce) can refried beans

1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning

1 cup guacamole or make homemade guacamole

1 (8 ounce) container sour cream

1 cup chunky salsa or pico de gallo; or make homemade pico de gallo

1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

2 Roma tomatoes, diced

1/2 bunch of green onions, sliced

1 (2.25 ounce) can of sliced olives, drained

9 ounce plastic tumblers

tortilla chips

Directions:

In a small bowl mix taco seasoning with refried beans.

Here's how the layers are assembled:

Layer 1: beans and taco seasoning

Layer 2: sour cream

Layer 3: guacamole

Layer 4: salsa or pico de gallo

Layer 5: cheese

Layer 6: tomatoes

Layer 7: green onions and olives

In each plastic glass, layer about 2 Tablespoons of the beans, followed by 2 Tablespoons of sour cream, 2 Tablespoons of guacamole, 2 Tablespoons of salsa or pico de gallo, and 2 Tablespoons of cheese. Make sure you drain your salsa or pico to get the excess liquid out before you pour it on. Then top with about 1-2 teaspoons of tomatoes, olives, and green onion (If making ahead of time, wait to add these toppings until shortly before serving).

Garnish with one tortilla chip. Store in the refrigerator until serving and serve with chips.

What is your favorite part of football Sundays? Any favorite recipe you would like to share with me? Also want to see what I'm dreaming up on fashion, food and fun?

Bon Appetit and Happy Weekend!

xo,
L

*Credit - Photo and recipe via The Girl Who Ate Everything

LSL {The Lovely List} - Rather Be...

2012-01-17T09:41:00.000-08:00

The cold weather has caught up with us here in Nor Cal and I again am caught daydreaming of being anywhere else other than work today. I really think being a lady of leisure would suit me so well. Sigh.

I would rather be wearing this

while snuggling here

with this cozy blanket and these lovely candles

while reading this

In a perfect world, what would you rather be doing? Or wearing? Or reading today?

xo,

L

*Credits - Wrap via ModCloth; Flannel + socks via Natty By Design; Dog on Couch via Coco + Kelley; Pendleton Hudson Bay blanket via Wit + Delight; Jo Malone candles; The Perfectly Imperfect Home via Amazon

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Vanilla Pear Muffins

2012-01-13T12:15:00.001-08:00

So happy it's finally Friday. This week has not only dragged but my work days have been on overload, I am so looking forward to relaxing with my TV friends this weekend. This Foodie Friday I was craving something sweet, but not in the chocolate cake kind of way, but in the muffin or tart kind of way. I was looking for something that had pears in it, to which I have been eating a lot of lately, but once ripe don't last for too long. Why not put them to good use in The Pastry Affair's Vanilla Pear Muffins.

Vanilla Pear Muffins 

{Adapted from The Pastry Affair}

Yields 12 muffins

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour  

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder  

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg  

Pinch of salt  

2 large eggs  

1 1/2 tablespoons vanilla extract  

1 tablespoon lemon (or orange) zest  

1 cup packed light brown sugar  

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted  

1/4 cup vegetable oil  

1 cup unsweetened applesauce  

2 large ripe pears, thinly sliced  

Granulated sugar, for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

3. In another bowl, mix together the eggs, vanilla, zest, brown sugar, butter, oil, and applesauce until well combined. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined; do not overmix. Distribute the muffin batter evenly between 12-13 baking cups. Stick 3 thin slices of pear directly into top of the muffin batter. Sprinkle granulated sugar onto the muffins, if desired.

4. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the muffin tops are lightly browned and bounce back to the touch. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Bon Appetit and Happy Weekend!

xo,
L

*Credit - Recipe and Photos via The Pastry Affair

Bursts of Bright

2012-01-09T16:21:00.000-08:00

This Northern California winter has been ridiculous in the best possible way. This past weekend was in the 70's! Seriously ridiculous for a January. And I really am not trying to brag to my East Coast and European friends, but it gives a whole new meaning to California dreamin'. Sadly there has been no rain here in months and absolutely no snow in the Sierra's. But, I am a sunny kinda gal, so I am loving the chance to bust out my spring(ish) clothes, if only for a couple of weeks.

With all this bright beautiful weather, it makes me want to add some bright beautiful color to my waredrobe. For inspiration here are some bright color options to add to your winter duds, whether that be for your 70 degree winter weather or your -20 degree winter weather.

Great bright pink and turq combo
via Atlantic-Pacific

Love the pops of red to a winter coat
via Brooklyn Blonde

via Stockholm Street Style

I like all her dark layers, but she still makes room for color
via Brooklyn Blonde

via Lookbook.Nu

Such lovely coat color options
via Net-A-Porter

I die. This may be my new all time fav look...
which, of course, I can definitely picture me rocking
via Court and Hudson
This girl has style!

Even the fellas can get into it

Such a statement that aqua can be
via Pinterest

via Schmegga Tumblr

Wishing you sunny days and pretty pops of color, wherever you may be.

xo,

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Orecchiette with Rapini & Goat Cheese

2012-01-06T11:19:00.001-08:00

In trying to keep to my eating right NY resolutions for at least the week, I thought this Foodie Friday would be good to show off how to make a light and healthy(ish) pasta dish. I am a BIG fan of goat cheese and Rapini, so this recipe had me at hello.

Orecchiette with Rapini and Goat Cheese

{Recipe by: Saveur}

Serves 2 – 4

INGREDIENTS

Kosher salt, to taste

1 bunch rapini (about 1 lb.), roughly chopped

1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

6 cloves garlic, crushed

3/4 tsp. crushed red chile flakes

12 oz. orecchiette

2 tbsp. lemon zest

4 oz. goat cheese, softened

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Bring an 8-qt. pot of salted water to a boil. Add rapini and boil until crisp-tender, about 4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer rapini to a large bowl of ice water; chill. Drain rapini, pat dry, and set aside.

2. Heat oil in a 12" skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden, about 3 minutes. Add chile flakes and cook, stirring frequently, for 30 seconds. Add rapini, toss, and remove pan from heat; set aside.

3. Meanwhile, bring a 6-qt. pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain pasta and transfer pasta and lemon zest to reserved skillet over high heat. Toss to combine and season with salt. Divide pasta between bowls and add a dollop.

In my opinion, I think this would be great paired with a light pinot noir in these colder months and a light white wine (my fav pinot grigio might be nice) for those summer months. How are your resolutions coming along so far? Is anyone else out there a sucker for goat cheese like I am? It's. just. so. good.

Bon appetit and happy weekend!

xo,
L

*Photo credit - André Baranowski via Saveur

Resolving to...

2012-01-04T13:22:00.000-08:00

While ~~attempting to be productive~~ reading my email (thank you Matchbook Magazine for the NEW January issue, it's lovely!), I realized that this wonderful magazine has summed up my resolutions quite beautifully. I especially like numbers 1, 5, 6, 11 and, most of all, 12.

Now just need to hit print and live up to these babies. What are your 2012 resolutions? And, not to forget, I do still have on my list from last year to: drink more water, exercise more, less sugar more veggies, and don't over-think so much. Guess I still need to work on those, it's hard being so practically perfect. (cue sarcastic laughter from all my friends)

xo,
L

PS. If that was too subtle of a hint, you should really check out Matchbook Magazine's new issue, it's live as of TODAY.

Cheers to 2012!

2012-01-02T17:30:00.000-08:00

If you remember this post, you know I don't normally do NY resolutions. I like to do my reevaluating in August, my birthday month. But this year I am actually looking forward to making plans, thinking about what I want to revamp, and really focusing on sticking to them. My theme for this year is change. I found the above quote and thought it was perfectly fitting for my 2012 year.

Wishing you all a wonderful, fulfilling and lovely new year.

Cheers to 2012!

xo,

*Credit - glasses

Au Revoir 2011

2011-12-31T08:05:00.000-08:00

via ban.do

via ffffound

Wishing you all a very Happy New Year's and a water cooler full of Moet. I have BIG hopes for 2012 and I cannot wait to see what this year has in store. I have some resolutions already penned out, some life changes already in mind, and know this year will be even better than the last.

I'm off to ring in the New Year in style and hope you all have a fantastic night.

Chin, Chin!

xo,
L

All That Glitters

2011-12-30T11:36:00.000-08:00

Wow where did the time go? I am sorry I have been distracted by my staycation and have negectled my lovely (and favorite) blog. I have been busy jetting off to SF for ladies days, up to Sonoma for wine tasting around the square, and busy pampering myself with hair and nail appointments. I don't know how I am going to go back to my real (aka work) life after this wonderful week off.

With NYE happening tomorrow (yikes!!) I started thinking about what the heck am I going to be wearing for my fun festivities? I came to the conclusion that sequins would be the most appropriate thing to do. Here are some of my favorites, and there are all kinds of styles one could choose from: dresses, pants, tops and purses.

via The Glitter Guide

via Peacock Feather Events

via Runway Chic

via Pinterest

via A Catalogue of Sorts

via Sow Kindness. Grow Love

via Karla's Closet

via Lesapea Musings

via Viva Magazine

via Pinterest

via All The Things I Love, We Love

How oh how, am I going to choose? What are you planning to wear to ring in the New Year? Will sequins make an appearance at your festivities?

xo,

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T07:44:00.000-08:00

via Miss Class

via The Book of Secrets

via The City Sage

May the spirit of Christmas bring you peace,

The gladness of Christmas give you hope, 

The warmth of Christmas grant you love. 

~Author Unknown

There is something magical about Christmas. I don't know if it's all the time with family, or eating all those extra Christmas treats, or even if it's listening to all that cheery music, but it's a nice time of year. And with a fresh start of New Year's just around the corner, it feel like it's a time of possibility.

Wishing you all the most wonderful time of the year, Merry Christmas lovelies.

xo,

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Eggnog Martini

2011-12-23T08:01:00.001-08:00

It's officially the start of the Christmas weekend and nothing says Christmas more to me than a spiked eggnog drink. I do find it a little weird that this is the only time of year we are allowed to drink eggnog, so I figure why not make it a stiff one to celebrate the long holiday weekend.

Eggnog Martini

{Adapted by Miss Martha}

Yield Serves 8

Ingredients

1 cup sugar

1/4 cup cornstarch

1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 teaspoon pumpkin-pie spice, plus more for garnish

8 cups whole milk

6 large egg yolks

3 cups brandy

Directions

1. Set a large fine-mesh sieve over a large bowl. Place bottom of bowl in an ice bath; set aside. Off heat, in a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, nutmeg, and pumpkin-pie spice. Gradually whisk in 4 cups milk, taking care to incorporate the cornstarch. Whisk in egg yolks.

2. Whisking constantly, cook over medium heat until the first large bubble sputters, 10 to 12 minutes. Reduce heat to low; cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute more. Remove from heat; immediately pour through sieve into bowl. Stir in remaining 4 cups milk. Let cool completely in bowl still set in ice bath.

3. Just before serving, stir in brandy, and ladle into glasses; garnish with pumpkin-pie spice.

What's your favorite Christmas-time drink? Hot buttered rum? Peppermint mochas? Hot Toddy? Spread that holiday cheer and break out the booze!

Cheers!

xo,

Golden Giltz

2011-12-21T13:22:00.000-08:00

I think that gold in the winter is so regal. Really brightens up any outfit, room, or tabletop. Wouldn't you agree?

Even just a pop of gold peeking out of a dress can really make an outfit. What's your favorite regal winter color? Are you like me and use gold to dress or liven up an outfit or space? And, lastly, how spectacular is that golden bicycle? I can see me on it now...

xo,
L

*Credits - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

LSL {The Lovely List} - New Girl

2011-12-20T17:27:00.000-08:00

Do you guys watch the Fox show, New Girl? It's that relatively new show with Zooey Deschanel? Well, it's one of my favorite things on TV, I laugh every single time I watch it. I highly suggest you check it out. Found this fun clip and thought it was too funny not to pass on.

Yes this is a shameless plug and no I was not paid or perked for this(too bad though). Small confession, I might be developing a small crush on Schmidty.

Enjoy!

xo,
L

*Credit: YouTube

LSL {The Lovely List} - Wallpaper

2011-12-17T08:05:00.000-08:00

I am pretty much smitten with Hermes. I usually can't walk by one of their stores without taking a picture of their windows. I don't really know why I do it, but I think it's that iconic orange it gets me every time. I own two things Hermes, a twilly and an enamel bangle, both which I absolutely adore. Those beautiful small orange boxes sit proudly on my bureau for me to admire everyday. As I was on the Hermes website today, you know just checking to see if I need anything, I found an option to "wallpaper" my desktop. What the heck you ask? You select the option of 'Hermes Wallpaper,' there you are able to choose between six different wallpaper styles, paint them any way you would like and download to your desktop. I am currently enjoying Herringbone in a mustardy yellow. Thankyouverymuch.

What wallpaper style best suits you? Do your knees also get weak every time you see one of those orange boxes like mine? It's weird, I know.

Happy Weekend!
xo,
L

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Christmas in a Bowl

2011-12-16T13:12:00.001-08:00

I love chocolate, I love brownies and I love peppermint. This Foodie Friday I found the best of all worlds; a recipe that includes chocolate, brownies and peppermint! Christmas in a Bowl. And it sounds fantastic. The Faux Martha created this delicious recipe and I definitely need to get to trying to make, so I can get to trying it. This may be a little more complex than most of the recipes featured here, but I believe it's well worth it for this Christmas treat.

Christmas in a Bowl 

{adapted from The Faux Martha via Martha Stewart}

(note: trifle must rest 12 hours before serving)

Serves 20

MOUSSE 

-2 1/2 c. heavy cream 

-10 oz. white chocolate, coarsely chopped 

-1/2 c. peppermint candies, crushed

PUDDING 

-8 oz. dark chocolate, coarsely chopped 

-2 c. heavy cream 

-3 large egg yolks, room temperature

BROWNIES 

-1/2 c. (1 stick) unsalted butter 

-8 oz. dark chocolate, coarsely chopped 

-1 1/2 c. sugar 

-4 large eggs 

-1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 

-3/4 c. all-purpose unbleached flour 

-1/2 tsp. sea salt

GARNISH

1/4 c. peppermint candies, crushed

1. Make the mousse: Prepare an ice-water bath; set aside. Place white chocolate in a bowl. Bring 1 cup cream almost to a boil in a small saucepan. Pour cream over chocolate and stir until smooth. Set in ice-water bath. Let cool, stirring occasionally, until thick enough to hold ribbons on surface, about 15 minutes. Beat remaining 1 1/2 cups of cream to nearly stiff peaks. Fold into chocolate mixture until smooth, then fold in candies. Cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until thickened and almost firm, 4 to 6 hours. 

2. Make the pudding: Put chocolate into a large bowl; set aside. Bring cream almost to a boil in a small saucepan. Whisk yolks in a bowl. Pour 1/2 cup of hot cream in to the eggs in a slow, steady stream, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Pour mixture back into pan, whisk well. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 2 minutes. Pour over chocolate; whisk until smooth. Set bowl in ice-water bath. Let cool, stirring occasionally, until thick enough to hold ribbons on surface, about 15 minutes. Place plastic wrap directly on surface; refrigerate until set, about 3 hours. 

3. Make the brownies: Preheat oven to 350°. Line an 8-inch square baking pan or heatproof glass dishpan with overlapping parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch overhang. Set aside. Place butter and chocolate in a double boiler or large heatproof bowl set over (but not touching) simmering water; stir frequently until chocolate and butter are melted, about 7 minutes. Remove bowl from heat; let cool to room temperature, 10 to 15 minutes. Stir sugar into cooled chocolate mixture until combined. Whisk in eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth after each addition. Whisk in vanilla. Gently fold in flour and salt. Pour batter into prepared pan, and smooth top with an offset spatula. Bake until cake tester inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached, 40 to 45 minutes. They will be fudgy. Using parchment, lift brownies out of pan and onto a wire rack to cool completely. 

4. Assembly: Spread one-third of the mousse into bottom of a glass trifle bowl that is 8 to 10 inches in diameter. Crumble brownies, and top with 1/2 of the brownies. Top with half the pudding, then another third of mousse. Place remaining brownie crumbles on top. Top with remaining pudding, then mousse. Cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate 12 hours. Garnish with peppermint candies just before serving.

Faux Martha puts it into words nicely about her Christmas in a Bowl, "...don’t judge her book by the cover. You wont be able to put her down. And when you’re done, you’ll wish there was more." It might not be the prettiest dessert in the book, but it sounds like one of the tastiest. Also head to FM's website for more helpful hints on where to buy the best and cheapest ingredients for this recipe, here.

Bon Appetit!

Girly Gift Ideas

2011-12-14T07:44:00.000-08:00

Now that it's mid-December and the Christmas shopping (at least for most people) is under way. I am completely stressing myself out thinking of what to get people and it's now December 14th and I have done very little gift shopping. Yikes! So while ~~procrastinating~~ attempting to find the perfect gifts for my favorite friends and family, I was looking at my dailys to see what my favorite bloggers recommend. It seems like gift guides are all over and I have to say, in true LSL fashion, I am coveting most items. But my favorite and most extravagant gift guide is by the lovely Mrs. Lilien. She paired up with Juicy Couture to make not one, but 12 fabulous lists.

Instead of giving you yet another gift guide, I thought I would share illustrations from a very sweet Esty artist, Kristina Hultkrantz. She makes the loveliest prints. So for the girly girl that has everything, here is one thing that she will soon ~~need~~ adore.

'Coco Chanel'

'Miss Dior Cherie'

'Audrey Hepburn'

'Hermes Tray'

'30 Lipsticks'

'Jackie Kennedy'

'Marilyn Monroe'

Happy gifting!

xo,
L
*Psst these prints may or may not be on my "I've been so good this year" Christmas list. (wink)

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Holiday Cookies

2011-12-09T13:25:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year, Christmas is quickly approaching and the annual baking of holiday cookies is soon to be underway at my house. I love this tradition, my roommate (who by the way is an extraordinary baker) makes all the dough ahead of time, and then I do what I know best and help her fancy them up with icing. Last year I think we probably made close to 100 cookies. Not only was it fun to hang out, drink champagne and wine while we decorated, it was also fun to pass them out and see the looks on our friend's faces when they received a bundle of our goodies.

While looking for fun cookie decorating ideas I came across Glorious Treats' holiday cookies and cupcakes. I was instantly drawn to them, 1. because I have a small affinity for snowflake designs and 2. because they were not the traditional red and green holiday colors. I am a fan of changing it up and trying new colors on Christmas and I may have decorated my tree in just turquoises, silvers, and golds last year. If you're in the mood for a little holiday baking this weekend, below is an easy sugar cookie recipe and a pretty picture to along with it for lovely decorating inspiration.

Sugar Cookies

{adapted by: Glorious Treats}

Recipe yields about 30, 2 1/2 inch cookies or 16, 3 1/2 inch cookies.

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature

1 cup sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon good quality vanilla extract

Parchment paper

Directions:

-In a medium bowl, stir together the flour and baking powder and set aside.

-In the bowl of an electric mixer, using the paddle attachment, mix together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes.

-Add the egg and vanilla and beat another minute or so.

-Add the flour mixture slowly. (Be careful not to add too much at a time or you will have a snowstorm of flour.)

-Blend until all of the flour is incorporated and the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl.

-Take the dough out of the bowl and place it on a piece of parchment paper.

-Using your hands, knead the dough a few times.

-Place the dough in a large plastic ziplock bag and refrigerate for about 2 hours. If you want to speed up the chilling process, place the bag of dough in the freezer for about 20-30 minutes.

-When it's almost time to remove the dough from the refrigerator (or freezer), preheat oven to 350 degrees (F).

-When the dough has chilled and is firm, take out about half of the dough, leaving the rest in the refrigerator (until your ready to work with it).

Place the dough on a lightly floured work surface.

Place a piece of parchment paper on top of the dough. This helps you roll out the dough without adding additional flour (adding too much flour can make the dough a bit tough, and can create little pockets of flour in the dough that cause bumps to form on your cookies during baking, making it more difficult to decorate later).

Roll out the dough to about 1/3 of an inch thick.

Cut the dough with your choice of cookie cutters.

Place cookie shapes on a prepared baking sheet.

Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes depending on the size of the cookie.

Cool for just a minute or so on the pan, then carefully remove cookies from the baking sheet and place on a cooling rack.

Once cooled, start decorating those cookies.

Bon Appetit!

xo,

Pantone Colors

2011-12-08T06:33:00.000-08:00

Just announced today is Pantone's Spring 2012 top color, Tangerine Tango. Which reminds me of this post and my love affair with a similar color, poppy. This Spring's fashion color report is chock-full of great colors. Solar Power, a mustard-y yellow, Cockatoo, a minty-ish green, Soladite, which is simlar to a navy, Caberet, a fushia pink, a lavender Bellflower, and much more.

Pantone based these top color choices on September's Spring Fashion Week in NY. Pantone took some of the best designers' showcases and based this upcoming season's choice on what seemed to encompass the true colors of Spring. Below are a few designers creations using Pantone's hot colors and their own sketches from pieces off their Spring runway.

Cockatoo
Tracy Reece

Sweet Lilac & Tangerine Tango
Nanette Lapore

Caberet
Peter Som

Solar Power
Rachel Roy

Tangerine Tango & Starfish
Elie Tahari

Driftwood
Rebecca Minkoff

Bellflower
Rafael Cennamo

To check out the entire lookbook, which is full of beautiful designer sketches and colors, go here.

What would be your top color for Spring? I think they hit the nail on the head for me with Tangerine Tango, and maybe add a little of that Solar Power and Driftwood in for good measure. And is anyone wanting to try that beautiful Rebecca Minkoff number on? It looks so fabulous.

xo,
L

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Lavender Hot Chocolate

2011-12-02T07:46:00.001-08:00

Happy Foodie Friday! So, I don't know if it's the weather finally changing and cooling way down here, but I woke up today feeling slightly under the weather. I am just telling myself that I am over tired mixed with a combination of allergies from all the wind we have been having. I don't get sick, that has to be it. Right?

Today I thought it would be fun to feature a classic comfort holiday drink. I drink a lot of tea at home, but at times that gets old and lately all I have been craving is a cup of good ol' fashioned hot chocolate. However, I was interested in mixing up the tried and true recipe and stumbled upon this beauty. Here you go, how good (and comforting) does a lavender hot chocolate sound?

Lavender Hot Chocolate

Yields: 2 servings

{via Une Deux Senses via original recipe here}

Notes: since the lavender is fragrant, adjust the amount according to your preference. For a creamier hot chocolate, a 1:1 ratio or dark to milk chocolate can be used.

For the hot chocolate:

2 cups whole milk

3 oz. dark chocolate (70% cacao)

1 oz. milk chocolate

1/4 tsp. lavender buds

For the whipped cream:

1/2 cup cold heavy whipping cream

1/4 tsp. vanilla extract or seeds from 1/4 of a vanilla bean pod

1/2 tbsn. sugar

For the whipped cream, place the cold cream, vanilla and sugar into a cold mixing bowl. Beat the mixture with a whisk or mixer until stiff peaks form. Keep refrigerated until ready for use.

For the hot chocolate, beat the milk and lavender over medium heat, whisking occasionally until the milk begins to simmer. Remove from the heat and let the lavender steep for 5 minutes. Strain the lavender and return the milk to the saucepan. Over medium heat, add the chocolate and mix until the chocolate is melted and incorporated. Whisk the milk mixture for 10 - 20 seconds or until frothy. Pour into a large mug and serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

Can't wait to get into some warm comfy clothes find a good girly rom-com, and sit in bed with a piping hot mug of lavender hot cocoa. I may just have to find my copy of The Holiday and get myself in the Christmas spirit. Much to my amazement it is already December!

Wishing you a lovely weekend

xo,

*Credit - Recipe and photos by Michelle via Une Deux Senses

Leopard + Green

2011-11-30T12:45:00.000-08:00

I have been having a small, okay, LARGE obsession with leopard print lately. Everything I am drawn to when persuing a magazine or window shopping is leopard. It's my favorite print! Soon I will have to stop myself from buying it all and then only owning a closet full of leopard. But before I become the lovely leopard lady, I wanted to show off my new favorite combo with my favorite-ever print, pairing it with kelly green.

That skirt and those heels!
via Habitually Chic

How wonderfully fabulous is this set up? Paint me envious!
via Marcus Design

Different angle of the above swoon worthy office space.
via Marcus Design

via This Time Tomorrow

Pairing it with a simply divine couch
via Porch Light Interiors

Serious swoon
via What I Wore

via tumblr

Adding Hermes to any outfit equals serious LSL points
via My Interior Life

Even Hurbert De Givenchy is into it
via google

I love how it can work with fashion and also with interiors. I really don't think I will ever get enough. And, since I have been very good at working on increasing the leopard contents in my closet, I must find some good leopard home goods as well as some kelly green. Must. Go. Shopping.

xo,

Thankful Heart

2011-11-24T07:08:00.000-08:00

The unthankful heart discovers no mercies;  

but let the thankful heart sweep through the day and,  

as the magnet finds the iron,  

so it will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings. 

-Henry Ward Beecher

I am so thankful. I know life may be full of ups and downs but there are so many blessings in each day if we are willing to look for them. I am abundantly grateful for my family, my friends, my health, and my lovely LSL supporters. Thank you doesn't seem like enough, but I'm appreciative everyday for all that you do, but mostly for you enriching my life and letting me into yours.

Go home and hug your family, remember to say your thank you's (and mean them) and most of all, smile.

Wishing you the happiest of Thanksgivings.

xo,

*Credit - Elements of Style & Marta Writes

Set the Table

2011-11-22T13:36:00.000-08:00

I'm not what you would called "skilled" in the kitchen department, for example, my lovely mother is known to just put me in charge of ice, water and setting the table. Slowly over the years I have graduated to being in charge of making gravy as well. (Which by the way, is something that I take great pride in. And yes, I realize it's just gravy.) As much as I would want this post to be about me bragging over my gravy makin' skills, I thought it would be more fun for you to check out some of these awe-inspiring table settings. Maybe get some ideas for your big holiday table and dazzle your guests when they sit down for their delicious dinner.

via It's Written On The Walls

So elegant
via Birch and Bird

For the kiddie table
via Under the Table & Dreaming

via Under the Table & Dreaming

via Miss Martha S

So simple
via Under the Table & Dreaming

Anything spray painted metallic and I'm on board
via Miss Martha S

Love incorporating the pink on to the table
via Southern Living

Isn't this beautiful? Black and white and touches of shimmer
via Digs Digs

Here's a creative way for those placecard holders...

via Oh How Posh

via Miss Martha S

via New England Fine Living

And as an added bonus, check out ways even more ways to upgrade your table settings here and helpful hints on holiday entertaining here.

Wishing you a wonderful and fulling Thanksgiving!

xo,
L

LSL {Foodie Friday} - Apple Almond Tart

2011-11-18T13:35:00.002-08:00

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, paired along with the rapid drop in temperature and the current overcast of the day; this Foodie Friday makes me want to cook and enjoy something comfort-like. To me nothing feels more fall than a delicious baked apple dish. I came across this recipe after drooling over apple desserts on my favorite site. This Apple Almond Tart is from the lovely blog of Sweet Fine Day. Pictured below and paired with caramel ice cream, this is a for sure on my to do list of desserts I must make.

Apple Almond Tart (makes one 11-inch tart)

{recipe here}

For the crust

2 cups flour 

6 ounces butter 

5 Tablespoons sugar 

1/4 teaspoon salt 

1 egg 

1 egg yolk

For the filling

1/2 cup butter, softened 

1/2 cup sugar 

2 eggs 

1/2 cup all-purpose flour 

2 ounces finely ground almonds 

1 teaspoon almond extract 

3-4 apples, peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick (any variety of apple would do just fine)

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.

Beat the butter and sugar together in an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs, beat for one more minute. Finally, beat in the flour, almonds, and almond extract, stopping to scrape the sides of the mixing bowl if necessary. Spread this mixture in an even layer into the baked tart shell. Begin arranging the sliced apples around the side in overlapping concentric circles, until the entire top of the tart is covered. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the center of the tart is firm and fully cooked. Remove from the oven and cool completely before slicing.

Bon appetit lovelies!

xo,