And the sky was all violet.

Paint It Black.

2006-09-30T19:03:00.000-07:00

Janet Fitch's novel White Oleander was moving and disturbing, her follow-up novel Paint It Black promises not to disappoint.

Josie Tyrell, art model, teen runaway, and denizen of LA's 1980 punk rock scene, finds a chance at real love with art student Michael Faraday. A Harvard dropout and son of a renowned pianist, Michael introduces her to his spiritual quest and a world of sophistication she had never dreamed existed. But when she receives a call from the Los Angeles County Coroner, asking her to identify her lover's dead body, her bright dreams all turn to black. "What happens to a dream when the dreamer is gone?" is the central question of Paint it Black, the story of the aftermath of Michael's death, and Josie's struggle to hold onto the true world he shared with her. As Josie searches for the key to understanding his death, she finds herself both repelled and attracted to Michael's pianist mother, Meredith, who holds Josie responsible for her son's torment. Soon, the two women find themselves drawn into a twisted relationship reflecting equal parts distrust and blind need. Passionate, wounded, fiercely alive, Josie Tyrell walks the brink of her own destruction as she fights to discover the meaning of Michael's death. With the luxurious prose and emotional intensity that are her hallmarks, Janet Fitch has written a spellbinding new novel about love, betrayal, and the possibility of transcendence.

Yet another book I need to read!

For my fellow magazine whores...

2006-09-30T16:50:00.000-07:00

Hearst is having a blow-out sale on magazine subscriptions-- I got Marie Claire for 50 cents an issue and Redbook (which I have to say is much cooler than I previously thought-- check out Alicia Silverstone on the cover of the current issue), too!

You can get the cheap-o mags here, but hurryj-- only two days left!

Marcia Cross' favorite necklace

2006-09-29T02:04:00.000-07:00

Lately Marcia Cross has stepped out wearing a DelicateRaymond.com necklace, the gold franc charm one.

Marcia Cross also wore the gold necklace on Good Morning America and Regis and Kelly on September 25. She loves it!

All of Delicate Raymond's pieces (as the name implies) are delicate and charming. She uses the cutest charms, like teddy bears and even ice cream cones. The pieces are elegant and not overpowering like some accessories can be. You can layer and layer them and still not look overdone. Love it!

DelicateRaymond.com has a lot of celebrity fans...everyone from Lauren Conrad, Gabrielle Union, Lorraine Bracco, Navi Rawat, Kat Dennings, even Ace Young! Congrats DelicateRaymond.com!

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Pound Cake

2006-09-26T00:17:00.000-07:00

1 c. butter
3 c. sugar
5 lg. eggs
3 c. all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. cloves
2 c. canned or cooked pumpkin
1/6 c. rum
1/6 c. apple cider
1 bag dark chocolate chips or chunks

Beat butter at medium speed of mixer about 2 minutes or until creamy. Gradually add sugar, beating 5 to 7 minutes. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating only until yellow disappears.

Combine pumpkin, cider, and rum in a bowl.

Combine flour, salt, spices, and soda in a bow.

Add flour mixture to creamed butter mixture alternating with pumpkin mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Mix at lowest speed just until blended after each addition.

Fold in chocolate chips.

Pour batter into a greased and floured 10-inch tube pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 1 hour and 25 to 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack 10 minutes then remove from pan.

Glaze it with a confectioners sugar/apple cider thin royal icing, and then drizzle over top with melted dark chocolate.

Chocolate chips can be omitted, or replaced by dried fruits, nuts, or other add-ins.

$4 Cocktails? 135 Bars? So there.

2006-09-25T16:10:00.000-07:00

For my NYC friends...I'll be there with you in spirit!

When: Today thru Fri, Sept. 29th * 5pm-9pm
Where: 135 Bars Throughout Manhattan
Host: Shecky's
What: Toast to New York Week 2006 - STARTS TODAY!
Enjoy $4 drink specials at 135 hot bars and clubs all week long (Mon-Fri, 5pm-9pm) during Shecky's third-annual Toast to New York Week 2006. Plus, enter to win a Shecky's 2007 Bar Guide or 10 happy hours for you and your friends in celebration of our 10th anniversary!

RSVP here!

Ooh la la...a few beauty treats

2006-09-25T14:31:00.000-07:00

A few recent beauty finds...

Ooh La Lift by Benefit is a godsend. Ever since I started my own business I find myself wide awake at 3 a.m. Then I crash and struggle to get up at a decent hour in the morning. Lather, rinse, repeat. So this $20 miracle product does damage control-- allnighter what? I tested it out at Sephora and could feel my eye area firming up, tightening...bye bye marshmallow undereyes!

The Biggy Smacker by Bonne Bell. OMG, I didn't know they still made these! It's like a gigantic LipSmacker! I got the Kool-Aid Strawberry one at Rite Aid this weekend. I'm a balm/gloss addict, and I love having this huge .60 oz tube handy.

A variety of other flavors can be found here.

I've been addicted to my Sephora Bananas Foster hair & body wash. It's so gentle, smells DELISH, and leaves my hair soft and shiny. I'm kicking myself for not picking up more bottles when it was on sale at my local Sephora for $5. Now it's nowhere to be found!

I think I'll try the chocolate raspberry one, though, and triple layer cake. Hmmmm!

Edit: Just ordered them at Sephora.com!

Cupcakes from tonight

2006-09-22T03:08:00.000-07:00

Decorated by me :)

Running off to the circus

2006-09-15T23:36:00.000-07:00

Check out Fashion Circus in Pasadena, I'll be there helping out my friend My Little Pretty there tomorrow!

Fashion Circus: "Celebrating life, the human body and the human spirit in the pursuit of self expression."

Fashion Circus is the medium to connect daring artist, entrepreneurs and designers with their audience. Los Angeles has become the hot bed for innovation, new ideas, and latest trends. The new retail experience, "one day its here the next day you might never see it again." Lifestyle show showcasing not only the clothes & the art but the people behind it. Get the inside story of how companies started, meet the people behind the brand.

Beautiful yoga

2006-09-15T23:27:00.000-07:00

I just ordered this two DVD set, Yoga for Beauty with Rainbeau Mars. Has anyone tried it? It seems pretty neat, there is a DVD for the morning to "awaken and energize" (oh do I need that) and one for night that helps you unwind.

And Rainbeau...Love the name! :)

Fall is in the air

2006-09-15T23:13:00.000-07:00

It's that time again-- the Pumpkin Spice Frappuccinos & Lattes are back at Starbucks, the air is becoming crisper, you're starting to crave apple crisp and go on a hayride. Fall!

This also means...Halloween recipes!

I spied the latest issue of Country Living today at Barnes & Noble and couldn't resist. I love Halloween! All of the spooky music, trick or treating, decorations...Love.

Check out these pumpkin recipes from Country Living. Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting?! I'm so there!

I also found a brand new mag on the stands, MissBehave magazine. I liked what I saw-- a lot of good content, sassy writers, a definite Brooklyn/hip vibe. Be sure to check it out!

Solid Ground

2006-09-12T23:59:00.000-07:00

I hope my NY friends can go to this, I have been enamored with Holly's photography ever since Just My Cup of Tea posted-- it has an Ophelia quality to it-- remember the image of drowning Ophelia on the back of Hole's Celebrity Skin CD? It reminds me of that image-- nature, water, luminous skin, beauty. JenBekman.com

Please join Jen Bekman this Wednesday evening (tomorrow!) at a reception for Holly Lynton's exhibition, Solid Ground.

Opening Reception:
Wednesday | September 13, 2006 | 6pm - 8pm

Exhibition on View:
September 13 - October 28, 2006

Gallery Information:

jen bekman
6 Spring Street (between Elizabeth + Bowery)
New York City, NY 10012
phone: +1.212.219.0166
email: info@jenbekman.com

Love those chubby legs!

The Bravest.

2006-09-11T13:11:00.000-07:00

A friend showed me this site, Rescue Dogs of 9/11. It's so amazing how faithful and impactful these dogs are. They deserve a lifetime of Milk Bones and nose kisses.

Today is a somber day in history. How do you move beyond the lives lost, the terror inflicted? I think the best you can do is honor those who died and remember their souls by living a full life for them, and because of them.

I <3 You New York. I fell in love with you less than two months ago when I first visited. You are vibrant, soulful, and so alive.

Cupcakes & More Cupcakes

2006-09-10T02:15:00.000-07:00

I had my PR launch party on Thursday night and made lots and lots of cupcakes. Even mini cupcakes. Added a few drops of red food coloring to buttercream frosting to make it pink. They were a massive hit. Yum.

Tea Cup Swap

2006-09-10T02:02:00.000-07:00

The lovely blogger Beth at Just My Cup of Tea came up with the grand idea of a tea cup swap, so of course I signed up. I got a sweet package in the mail a couple days ago, with a lovely floral print tea cup and saucer, along with some darjeeling tea and a sweet note! Thank you to my swap partner! :) I will be putting the finishing touches on my package and be sending it very soon. What fun!

How to cutely display your cupcakes

2006-09-04T11:19:00.000-07:00

How sweet is that!?

This particular one holds 23 cupcakes and is available at Sur La Table, but I found one that holds 18 cupcakes at Bed Bath & Beyond for a bit less.

My two favorite things combined: books and animal characters

2006-08-31T02:03:00.000-07:00

When they didn't have the Disney character stamps in stock, I sprung for these guys:

Available online here.

30 Days of Fashion.

2006-08-31T01:25:00.000-07:00

Starting September, there will be 30 days of fashion-- giveaways, discounted magazine subscriptions, fashion blogging, podcasts and videos...Fun!

http://www.30daysoffashion.com

(I was very tempted to get a subscription to Seventeen for 63 cents an issue...like I need another magazine subscription! But it's Seventeen...tempting.)

Cinnamon spice & everything nice.

2006-08-28T23:48:00.000-07:00

As a huge cinnamon roll fan, I'm eager to try this flavor. I don't know how long it's been around, but it's new to me. Although I'm not a big breakfast person, I typically get oatmeal in the peaches n cream or maple brown sugar flavors.

I just had a bowl of Quaker Oatmeal's Take Heart of the latter flavor, for instance.

And how fun are these dinosaur eggs?! As a kid I'd be all over that. Eggs hatching dinos in your oatmeal, who knew!

The Assistant Wears Me&Ro

2006-08-28T18:16:00.000-07:00

You probably noticed the jewelry Anne Hathaway's character Andie wears in The Devil Wears Prada and perhaps wondered who designed the eye-catching pieces.

Patricia Field, famed costumer of Sex and the City, chose Me&Ro to accessorize Miranda Priestly's harried assistant. The elegant, earthy pieces carry a hefty price tag (well over a thousand each), but a glorified intern can dream, can't she?

Found at Me&Ro. Go!

Can't wait to start this!

2006-08-28T17:47:00.000-07:00

Found at Barnes & Noble, also at Amazon.

Should come in very handy. :)

The perfect clutch.

2006-08-25T23:49:00.000-07:00

I've been on the hunt for the right clutch/wallet to hold for nights on the town. It has to be small (but not too small, I have a lot of lip glosses), have room for keys, ID, coins, money for the valet, mints/gum, and most importantly be stylish. I hate it when girls bring their huge bags to bars or clubs and knock out everyone in their path! Talk about not cool and tres annoying.

So when my Avon and Mark catalogs arrived on my doorstep, I was pleasantly surprised to see this little number:

It's perfect! Everything I wanted, with lovely vintage-y fabric lining. I ordered it in black and can't wait for its arrival (Thursday!). Beauty Bar, anyone?

Halloween is just around the corner...

2006-08-25T23:26:00.000-07:00

...Okay, not really. But it's one of my favorite holidays, so I was excited to see some stores are already stocking Halloween decor!

My Lip Stuff. unveiled their Halloween lip balm flavors today, too:

-Pumpkin Roll
-Pumpkin Nog
-Apples & Oak (very original!)
-All Hallows Eve (Maple & Brown Sugar Oatmeal)
-Mischief Night (Raisins & Almonds)

Plus a bunch of cleverly named favorites:

New 2006 Labels:
*Cherry Slime (Cherry Lime)
*Ghoul-Aid (Raspberry Lemonade)
*Scary Berry (Berry Berry)
*Kooky Cookies (Butter Cookies)
*Spooky Dooky (Caramel Coffee)
*Putrid Punch (Gummy Bear)
*Ghost Poop (Marshmallow & Toasted Coconut)
*Bat Burps (Coconut Cake)
*Black Magic (Blackforest Cake)
*Sleepy Hollow (Caramel Popcorn)
*Creepy Crawlies (Carrot Cake)
*Hob Goblin (Sweet Pumpkin Mousse)
*Harvest Festival (Pumpkin Spice Latte)

Re-release of Limited Edition Labels:
*Dracula's Blood (Cherry)
*Count Chocolate (Chocolate)
*Eye of Newt (Grape)
*Zombie Brains (Chocolate Mints)
*Green Slime (Lime)
*Boo Berry (Blueberry)
*Witches Brew (Spicy Apple)
*Trick or Treat (Chocolate Candies)
*Bag O' Bones (Snow Cream)
*Spooky Ghost (Marshmallow)
*Vampire Bats (Chocolate Coconut)
*Spider Cider (Apple Cider)
*Ghouls & Goblins (Pumpkin Pie)
*Jack O' Lantern (Pumpkin)
*Monster Mash (Caramel Apple)
*Full Moon (Blue Moon Ice Cream)
*Sugar & Spice (Brown Sugar & Cinnamon)
*Snails & Puppydog Tails (Gingerbread)
*Black Cat (Blackberry)
*Candy Corn

I also entered to win their contest to win these balms. I hope I win!

Bunnies + Annie's Mac & Cheese = Yum

2006-08-25T18:47:00.000-07:00

I'm a sucker for bunnies and bunny characters who sell yummy (and organic!)) mac & cheese.

And Bernie the bunny even has his very own blog!.

You can also find it at your local Trader Joe's.

The essential fall coat.

2006-08-25T18:15:00.000-07:00

I remember back to school shopping every August and the big choice of finding the perfect fall/winter coat. It had to be hooded and waterproof (thanks to Oregon's torrential rains), lined (it gets chilly at night), and still be cute. Oh, and not too spendy.

This plaid coat. by J. Lo may not completely fit the bill, but it sure is cute. It reminds me of something Charlotte from Sex and the City would wear walking around Park Avenue. The price tag isn't too damaging for a coat, either.

I want it!

Baby on the block?

2006-08-25T17:56:00.000-07:00

I admire Jennifer Lopez' style and adore her SweetFace collection. I just read in Perez Hilton's blog that La Lopez is expecting!

Congrats, Jenny, if this is true!

Love, love, love.

2006-08-25T01:12:00.000-07:00

Love it! Available at American Eagle.

Even though I'm not technically going "back to school" I can still take part in the shopping, right?

Art history

2006-08-23T23:57:00.000-07:00

I found this book in the sale section at Urban Outfitters for the tiny sum of $4.90. Love!

Life is short...eat your pie first.

2006-08-23T23:36:00.000-07:00

In honor of Peach Pie day:

Peach pie with crumb topping

INGREDIENTS:
2 pounds fresh peaches, peeled & sliced, about 4 cups
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 9-inch pie shell, baked
.
Topping
1/2 cup flour
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/3 cup chopped nuts, optional

PREPARATION:
Combine the peaches with the sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Toss lightly. Place peach mixture in the baked shell, cover with wax paper, and microwave on high for about 5 minutes, turning halfway through the cooking.

Sprinkle with crumb topping and microwave on high for 4 to 5 minutes or until topping is set. Let stand until cool.
Crumb Topping: Combine topping ingredients with a fork.

Thank you, About.com!

Pass the peach pie!

2006-08-23T23:15:00.000-07:00

August 24th is National Peach Pie Day. How are YOU going to celebrate?

Tomorrow also marks three years of living in Los Angeles. Peachy keen.

My motherboard, myself.

2006-08-23T22:48:00.000-07:00

I felt like a West Coast version of Carrie Bradshaw this afternoon...My laptop met its demise in an unceremonious manner. Perhaps it will be revived at a later date, who knows.

I knew it was time to buy a replacement, because after three years Miss Dell's death was inevitable. I now have a sleek Toshiba laptop from Best Buy that I'm writing this entry on. Miss Dell will be missed.

Just breathe. Sometimes in stressful times that's all you can do! And be a diva. But I try not to be.

Skyscraper lashes

2006-08-23T00:15:00.000-07:00

What's your favorite cheap beauty find?

Mine is Maybelline's Sky High Curves. Around $5, something about this mascara's formula lifts my lashes and makes them appear fuller.

Maybelline's classic green-and-pink tube standby, Great Lash, receives many accollades in beauty magazines-- and it is a solid choice for a quick, dramatic pick-me-up. While most mascaras require several coats to show up, Great Lash shows up in just one swipe of the brush.

I'm considering splurging and getting the $19 Benefit BADgal mascara since I've read some great reviews on it. But it will be hard to part with my Sky High Curves...

Gin & tonic

2006-08-21T00:15:00.000-07:00

I recently came across Bobbed Hair and Bathtub Gin: Writers Running Wild in the Twenties in Just My Cup of Tea's blog. I remembered I'd added it to my wishlist several months ago but hadn't bought it yet. It looks too saucy and naughty not to, though, so I just ordered it.

I hope it doesn't disappoint!

Monster Cookies

2006-08-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

My grandma used to make us Monster Cookies as a special treat. I found this recipe online (sidenote: 20 dozen?! Yikes.)...I wonder if they will turn out even half as good as hers?

12 eggs
4 c. brown sugar
4 c. white sugar
1 tbsp. light Karo
1 tbsp. vanilla extract
2 tbsp. + 2 tsp. baking soda
1 lb. butter
3 lbs. peanut butter
18 c. oatmeal
1 lb. chocolate chips
1 lb. M & M candies

Mix in order given. Drop on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for about 12 minutes. This feeds a monster crowd (20 dozen). Can easily be halved to feed a little monster crowd. Freezes well.

Lil Miss

2006-08-20T19:52:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Sunshine was a wonderful film. It may look light and cute in the previews, but there is an underlying sadness that makes this a beautifully dark comedy.

The talented young actress who plays Olive does so with charm and an understated manner, communicating how she feels without words so much, but facial expressions and mannerisms.

I laughed, I cried. I loved Little Miss Sunshine.

Little Miss Sunshine

2006-08-18T22:05:00.000-07:00

I must see this!

Every day should be Creative Thursday.

2006-08-18T20:58:00.000-07:00

My new friend Marisa from Ladies Who Launch creates the sweetest paintings. She sets aside time every Thursday to create, and is now on a roll with her daily paintings.

"Helene...On The Move"

"Sknow Owl"

Available at Creative Thursday's blog and daily paintings

Coming soon.

2006-08-18T19:40:00.000-07:00

Pre-order at Amazon.

Little Shop of Beauty Treats

2006-08-17T01:47:00.000-07:00

I love Little Shop of Beauty's newest creations:

(I have this, it's amazing.)

Little Shop of Beauty

Vintage starlet to rockabilly.

2006-08-16T16:14:00.000-07:00

Although Frenchy in Grease had a "little trouble with tinting," you aren't likely to run into that dilemma at her namesake, Frenchy's Beauty Parlor in sleepy Burbank (who knew?). With the retro '50s pink and black exterior and Beauty Bar-esque interior, Frenchy's offers girls and greasers everything from vintage starlet styles to more edgy, rockabilly styles. But even the modern-day glamour girl can get a quality cut and style here-- the friendly five-chair salon is well-versed in all looks from Bettie Page pinup to the 20-something L.A. career lady. Your Frenchy's experience will begin with a coma-inducing AVEDA scalp massage-- choose from an array of scented AVEDA oils, if in doubt try cinnamon. The framed images of Old Hollywood legends will watch over you as you get beautified-- the glitter pink walls will remind you to pay a visit to Beauty Bar that night.

Frenchy's is located at 2403 West Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, CA 91506, 818-845-7545, Frenchysbeautyparlor.com.

Pink Pumpkin

2006-08-16T15:54:00.000-07:00

Little Shop of Beauty has some of the best-smelling body products (and a wide range of flavors to choose from)-- they introduced a new scent, Pink Pumpkin .

Product Description:
This nutrient rich moisture creme is thick, creamy and ultra-decadent! Enriched with pumpkin oil, organic honey, and macadamia nut butter, Pink Pumpkin Butter-Creme feels as luscious as it smells. Use this lavish body spread anytime, anywhere but be warned the sweet blissful feeling of our Butter-Creme is highly addictive. It's euphoria in a jar!

Scent Description:
Make the transition from summer to fall beautifully with our special edition Pink Pumpkin Buttercreme! This sumptuous scent is a perfectly pretty blend of sweet marshmallow frosting, swirls of fluffy cotton candy, fresh baked white cake and just a whisper of cinnamon sugar. Topped with a dollop of Pumpkin Creme Fraiche, this sensual and girlie confection is totally unique and sure to keep you warm on those crisp fall evenings!

I'm trying really hard to resist buying this rightthissecond...

Target finds

2006-08-14T00:24:00.000-07:00

I wound up finding two pairs of Mossimo straight-leg denim at Target (no trip to Old Navy for awhile!). Flattering cut, subtle wash, only $22.99 each this week. The back pockets remind me of Citizens.

I found a soft vintage Doors tee as well for $7.99. This isn't it (couldn't find that particular one online), but you get an idea. They have an impressive selection of vintage tees right now at the stores.

The bee's knees

2006-08-13T23:59:00.000-07:00

I stopped by the American Way Thrift Store today and found a nice selection of used books. I found a paperback copy of The Secret Life of Bees for about a dollar.

Such a sweet story.

Two Inspirations

2006-08-13T02:37:00.000-07:00

Two young ladies worth a mention:

I came across Lauren and Kelli on Myspace and was touched by their efforts to help others in Africa.

We are going to be embarking on a three month stay in Kampala and Jinja, Uganda. When we are there we will be working with a number of different NGOs and volunteering our mad skillz in areas of orphan childcare/welfare and meeting with others in different districts to see how these programs can be expanded. These programs will help the areas devastated by the AIDS epidemic.

Project Suubi

Old Navy denim: A do?

2006-08-13T01:56:00.000-07:00

While I haven't been in an Old Navy store in well over a year, I'm intrigued by their denim. It looks like the cuts are flattering (except those at-waist ones-- what were they thinking?!), and the washes aren't overdone. Who can beat $25 for a trusty pair of jeans?

My problems with jeans: they're either too low rise and I end up showing my "coin slot", my muffin top becomes even more visible, or they're total "mom jeans" and remind me of those horrid Cherokee or Lee jeans of the past. No thanks!

Since my current pair of See Thru Soul dark denim jeans deserve a much-needed break in my wardrobe rotation, I think I'll be heading to a mall in the Valley to investigate. I will report my findings!

Bunny tongues!

2006-08-11T18:59:00.000-07:00

The ladies over at LJ have the cutest lil buns-- they must be super lucky with timing their cameras to get the perfect bunny tongue shot!

Miss Fiona shows her KISS-worthy tongue...

Mister Boomer (my Gertie's main squeeze) shows his mama some love with a lick!

The Kids Are Alright.

2006-08-11T18:46:00.000-07:00

I have a not-so-secret addiction. I love these sour guys. They make my lips pucker and face twitch after I pop one (or five) in my mouth. These kids are bad, really bad. They satisfy my craving for something sour then sweet, and they make the perfect movie snack.

Sour Patch Kids started life as a product called Mars Men - little aliens that were sold as a one cent (US) piece.

The product inspiration and design came at a time when UFO sightings were exciting the Western world. Invading aliens from Mars were molded into the shape of the product and specially coated with a unique sour coating.

The taste started with "an out of this world" tartness, turning gradually into a pleasant fruit flavor. The process creating the sour-coated soft candy was developed in the late 1970s and this "alien" approach was the first candy to be tested with it.

It is believed that Frank Galatolie, then national sales manager of a distributor called Jaret, came up with the idea of introducing sour products into the soft confectionery category and developed the candy by having Canadian manufacturing colleagues experiment with regular cherry candy products and adding a coating of sour sanding. This new product was named Sour Patch Kids and was distributed in the US in 1985.

In 2002 Sour Patch Kids got a new look, new packaging, and new flavor names.

Evil little kids, how I love thee.

Friends with Benefit

2006-08-11T18:34:00.000-07:00

While in NYC I purchased Benefit Bathina Body So Fine at the Sephora in Midtown. I haven't used it yet (the packaging is so pretty)...Has anyone tried it?

Experience total body seduction with this flirtatiously, velvety body balm. The silky soft finish is slightly naughty and totally irresistible. Slip some on with Bathina's puff for luminescent luxury. It's all you will want to wear.

From bath to boudoir, experience the fine art of primping with Benefit Bathina's silkifying pamperers.

Sounds divine!

#2 please, no onions. In a bag to go.

2006-08-10T02:29:00.000-07:00

If you don't live in Southern California or neigbhoring states, you may not be aware of the goodness that is In N Out. Yes, it's a fast food joint. But not the bad type. Everything's fresh and made to order. You can even order from a secret menu for a little variety from their streamlined choices (double cheeseburger, cheeseburger, burger, fries, soda, milkshakes...).

I had a craving tonight just past midnight and I couldn't fight it. I had to have In N Out! So I got some. Yes, I'm one bad girl.

Portrait of a Bookstore

2006-08-07T23:04:00.000-07:00

I came across the cutest indie bookstore and adjoining cafe tonight. I can't believe I haven't ventured here before-- Portrait of a Bookstore and Aroma Cafe are just two scant miles from my place.

The attentive book store lady had read most of the books there and gave several great recommendations. I wound up taking home Running With Scissors (which is also coming up on the big screen, with my girl Evan Rachel Wood!) and the darker novel Veronica.

If I wasn't going to Trader Joe's afterwards, I would have lingered at the cafe. The Studio City neighborhood is a sweet mix of yarn shops, sit-down restaurants (the infamous Vitello's Italian Restaurant is at the corner), clothing boutiques, furniture stores and other sundries. I will definitely be back!

Philosophy

2006-08-07T01:29:00.000-07:00

Do you ever spray a fragrance that immediately takes you somewhere else, reminds you of another time and place? That's what the new unisex Philosophy fragrance does for me.

Reminds me of lemon cookies, comfort, and warmth.

Yep, Yelp.

2006-08-07T01:21:00.000-07:00

I love the new site Yelp. It combines all the good things about Myspace and Citysearch in one.

I'm addicted to adding restaurant reviews (yes, I'm a nerd and wanting to branch out and go new places just to write about them!), dish on horrid bars I've been to in LA, even places I've gone in other cities, like New York City (Fat Black Pussycat represent!) and Las Vegas. Fellow Yelpers can comment and add their two cents.

I get a little thrill when I am the first to review something!

Making the Band 3: Danity Kane

2006-08-07T01:11:00.000-07:00

My guilty pleasure ever since I got cable: Making the Band.

Remember when lovely Shannon was on the reality show Fame a couple years ago? Glad a fellow Oregon girl is making it big!

The season finale is this Thursday at 9 p.m....Tune in!

Escape.

2006-08-04T15:59:00.000-07:00

This video makes me want to head to South Beach and dance!

I looked at ArmaniExchange.com and fell in love with this sweater for fall:

I love the cowl neck. This would be one of my staple cardigans I'd wear over and over.

I must go to this before it's gone.

2006-08-04T15:50:00.000-07:00

The Shooting Gallery

What: Art meets rock ‘n’ roll with the opening of Hollywood’s newest gathering spot, The Shooting Gallery. The brainchild of music business veteran, Bobby Carlton, The Shooting Gallery will feature some of music’s greatest moments (including some never before seen classics) captured by its best photographers. The first exhibit, which will be featured at the Grand Opening event, will run for six to eight weeks. The opening exhibit will feature collections for viewing as well as pieces for sale from Kevin Estrada and Richard E. Aaron.

Free Admission

Where: 7403 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood

When: Opened June 8. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursdays; 2 to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Ends mid-August.

Info: (323) 882-8340; The Shooting Gallery

I don't like cities, but I love New York.

2006-08-04T15:31:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to visit NYC for the first time, ever, last month. This West Coast girl fell in love with the city. There's something about it...You see it in movies, but you don't really realize that it is very much the same in reality.

Yellow taxi cabs, horns honking, masses of people walking the streets, the Subway, the sweet smell of frosting from Magnolia Bakery cupcakes (and a mile long line), a nightlife that stretches past 2 a.m...The city is just magical. I would move there in a heartbeat.

Bustling Times Square...Who knew it was right by our hotel, the hip and efficient Hotel QT? What a trip. (Sidenote: sidewalk grates and heels don't mix-- eek!)

Central Park, as pretty as it is on the silver screen.

A rooftop view of the city from a swank hotel in the Meat Packing District. Where's Samantha?

I <3 NY.

Weeds on DVD

2006-08-04T15:25:00.000-07:00

I'm probably a little late on the game (and unfortunately don't get HBO yet), but I just picked up season one of Weeds on DVD.

A suburban mom, played by the luminous Mary Louise Parker, in dire straits that sells pot to make ends meet...priceless.

Back from the trenches...new beginnings!

2006-07-29T11:53:00.000-07:00

I haven't written here in over a month-- but I'm back now! A LOT has happened for me. I have decided to launch my own PR company after two years at another. It was time for me to take the leap (of faith) and (hopefully) shine.

I've been thinking about what my passions are. I love beauty products. I love new, fun places to shop, eat, drink, play. I love helping new brands take it to the next level.

It was always at the back of my mind to start my own company. I like making something that is completely mine.

It's scary-- okay, terrifying. I went to a Ladies Who Launch on June 24th and came away inspired to launch my own life/career. I highly recommend going to an event in your city-- at my LA event we had amazing guest speakers-- the head of Dermalogica, the ladies behind Jonathan hair product. It's not just listening to speakers-- you can shop, mingle, meet with experts on things like PR, lunch, cookies (yay!), and sign up for their incubator, which is what I did.

So in August I will meet with a group of other likeminded women on Melrose to "incubate", talking about what we want to launch and how we can do it-- I can't wait.

Life really does work in strange ways. Everything is connected, signs are everywhere. And now I'm paying attention to these signs.

Cheers!

If only my dust bunnies were this cute!

2006-05-12T11:32:00.000-07:00

Cutest.DustBunny.Ever.

Kiss My Peaches & Creme Face!

2006-05-11T14:14:00.000-07:00

Kiss My Face's Peaches & Creme with 4 percent Alpha Hydroxy Acids Moisturizer is my newest nighttime moisturizer (okay, first, I've never caught onto the moisturizing craze, bad I know!).

I smeared some on a few nights ago and woke up to smoother skin (goodbye, dry patch!). And it's all natural, not tested on bunnies...And available at my local Trader Joe's, even!

Stroke of luck

2006-05-11T13:01:00.000-07:00

Am I the only one who is looking forward to Lindsay Lohan's new movie, Just My Luck?

"Ashley is a young professional just out of college. She also happens to be the luckiest woman in the world, who has lived a super-charmed life and has always taken her good luck for granted. When she kisses a handsome stranger at a costume party, Ashley accidentally swaps her good fortune for his horribly bad luck, and her charmed life turns into a living hell."

(How Sex and the City is that shot?!)

Opens tomorrow!

Evan Rachel Wood

2006-05-11T12:14:00.000-07:00

I just ordered Thirteen and Pretty Persuasion on DVD for my Evan Rachel Wood fix. Such a talented young actress. I love her style and grace and that she doesn't shy away from gritty subjects.

I haven't watched Thirteen yet in its entirety, just chunks of it on cable television.

Pretty Persuasion sounds wickedly good.

I had the opportunity to go the the premiere of her new film, Down in the Valley, last night in West Hollywood. Too bad I was tired and traffic in LA bites. I hope to catch the film soon...what a better setting for a film than the Valley where I live?

Smells like summer

2006-05-09T11:49:00.000-07:00

My next Sephora purchase:

Sex On The Beach South Beach

Scent your skin and your personal space with the sexy scent of a sweet, summer cocktail. Sex On The Beach South Beach is the wearable version of the Sex on the Beach Cocktail with a twist - a sensory sensation; an inviting and refreshing combination of Vodka, unsweetened pineapple juice, a touch of raspberry liquor, a hint of melon liquor, and a splash of cranberry, finished with fresh hint of orange. This fragrance is so alluring and compelling that it should carry a warning label.

I tried it at Sephora this weekend and it really is that good!

A brief respite.

2006-05-09T11:38:00.000-07:00

Leaving the lovely City of Angels (currently in a "May Gray" mode) to a brief sojourn to this gem of a bed and breakfast, Bath Street Inn.

My room for two nights:

The Tiffany Room, located on the third floor, is an old fashioned queen room with shades of soft blue and green, with roses everywhere, bathtub/shower with a view of the mountains.

Hmm, homemade breakfast.

Each day we start with fresh California fruit and nutty homemade granola, then, a entree that varies daily - fresh raspberry pancakes, or perhaps a peach stuffed French toast or delicious Eggs Florentine served with fresh baked blueberry muffins.

Beautiful Santa Barbara, how I've missed thee.

I wish...

2006-05-05T13:30:00.000-07:00

My wishbone necklace from ShopIntuition.com is on its way to me...Thanks to a special promotion where you get 20 percent off by signing up for an account (basically have your information saved on file for your orders).

After seeing it, yet again, on Mischa on The OC last night, I knew it was a must-have!

This is bananas!

2006-05-02T14:26:00.000-07:00

Starbucks is launching new banana-flavored frappuccinos this month! There's also rumors of a Creme Brulee flavor and the upcoming tangerine, coconut...

But for now the latest flavor is the blackberry green tea frappuccino. Nice but I prefer my standard green tea frap, which for some reason reminds me of bubble gum ice cream!

Yankee Candle Sale

2006-05-02T14:23:00.000-07:00

Now until May 14 Yankee Candle votives and tarts are 12 for $12 in 400 stores! Sweet.

I still love grunge.

2006-05-01T16:35:00.000-07:00

See you Eddie, July 9 at The Forum!

What a rush.

2006-04-28T15:18:00.000-07:00

The new Beauty Rush collection by Victoria's Secret has one of my new favorite glosses, the pinky shimmery Piece of Cake. I have to admit I wasn't fond of their old collection, Sweet Talk. They were too sticky and smelled funny. So I'm thrilled Beauty Rush has a subtle food-y scent and goes on nicely. Piece of Cake is sheer with a light pink hue and a touch of shimmer.

Yep, I'm addicted.

Spark

2006-04-28T15:00:00.000-07:00

I found a new tool for attempting to lose weight and shape up for summer, Sparkpeople.com. It's super easy (and free!) to plug in your basic info like height, weight, activity level, desired weight, etc. and get an idea of how many calories you should eat per day.

Not only that, there are ideas on how to make small changes (like not eating in front of the tv-- guilty!), how much you should lose per week (over two pounds is a no-no), low calorie snacks, and best of all a supportive community.

I signed up-- time to get on the right track!

Om....

2006-04-28T14:31:00.000-07:00

I signed up to receive my Daily Om message every day...kind of like a moment of Zen for a hectic workday.

Charmed, I'm sure.

2006-04-28T14:23:00.000-07:00

My newest infatuation...The Dogeared wishbone charm necklace. Spotted on Mischa on The OC and in real life.

A little steep for me right now, at $110 on ShopIntuition...but I'm working on it.

Yummy Cupcakes

2006-04-27T14:20:00.000-07:00

I plan to stop by my neighborhood cupcake store soon to pick up a few for a birthday party this weekend. Is there anything better than cupcakes with pink frosting and sprinkles?

The little black shoe.

2006-04-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

I found my new favorite pair of black, goes-with-everything dressy shoes at Target. In LA you are considered dressed up if you wear heels, dark-tinted jeans, and a cute top. These shoes fit perfectly with this dressy casual vibe.

I'm usually a size 9 but had to go up half a size to 9.5, in case you order online.

Reading the reviews some people found them a bit uncomfortable, the last time I wore them they did cause a little discomfort towards the end of the night. But I usually find open-toed shoes hurt less than "pinchy" closed ones. But I think I need to go to more parties and report back to you.

Salvation in a tin

2006-04-27T12:53:00.000-07:00

Smith's Rosebud Salve is my salvation. I use it on my lips and around the eye area every night...I feel incomplete if I don't perform this nightly beauty ritual. I wake up to soft lips and hopefully stave off a few crow's feet.

It soothes dry patches, diaper rash...I wonder what else it can be used for?

Sweet as sugar.

2006-04-26T15:44:00.000-07:00

I wear Aquolina Pink Sugar nearly every day, it's a sweet-smelling scent...almost like a doughnut with a bit of cotton candy. It has notes of Bergamot, Sicilian Orange, Raspberry, Fig Leaves, Lily of the Valley, Licorice, Strawberry, Red Fruit, Cotton Candy, Barbe-a-Papa, Vanilla, Caramel, Musk, Wood, and Powder.

Yum.

Silent Hill

2006-04-26T15:31:00.000-07:00

Armed with Sour Jacks and a Coke, I went to see the film Silent Hill at AMC Theatres. I was in the mood for a creepy thriller, but sad to say Silent Hill wasn't it. It is visually stunning in many of the shots, but I couldn't get past the cheesiness and gore factor.

I didn't do my research before going and had no idea it's a video game, either.

The Omen comes out on 6/06/06, which I think will be more of a fright.

Too Faced

2006-04-26T14:44:00.000-07:00

I'm in love with Too Faced's pulpy makeup palettes, Quickie Chronicles. Each one comes with a unique pinup gal and a tongue-in-cheek story.

The Makeup Trailer is another good buy, it's an all-in-one you can stash in your purse. Eyeshadow, blush, gloss, brushes, mirror...It's all in there. I adore the packaging most of all!

And it looks like they have a few new Quickie Chronicles on Sephora.com for summer...Tropical Tease, anyone?

A few of my favorite blogs

2006-04-25T13:02:00.000-07:00

Beautiful blogs I read:

52 Cupcakes makes me want to eat 52 cupcakes in one sitting. I usually grab a box of Funfetti cake mix and some Betty Crocker frosting and call it a day, but I think I'm going to try the Red Velvet recipe for a fiesta this weekend.

Just My Cup of Tea is a collection of all things lovely. I bookmarked it and check it often to see what clever, creative things she finds. (She reminded me-- Shopgirl is out on DVD today! I must see it.)

Dandelion Sky is a blog I found from Just My Cup of Tea. I couldn't resist it once I saw her beautiful bunny posse!

Socialite Life is fun for a bit of gossip. Britney's pregnant with baby #2? Hmmm...

Ask the Dust

2006-04-25T12:53:00.000-07:00

Although I love to read, I seem to lack the discipline to sit down and read a book-- I think too much time online and too many magazines don't help matters. Ask The Dust by John Fante is my new bedside read, though, and one I actually pick up. It has short chapters so I can read a few a night and not feel overwhelmed. Fante's writing style is entertaining and engaging, about a young male writer in Los Angeles.

I ordered this from Amazon a couple weeks ago, not realizing it has been adapted into a film starring Salma Hayek and Colin Farrell.

They do not disappoint...

2006-04-25T12:24:00.000-07:00

Things that make me happy:

-The new Jane magazine format. It definitely needed a makeover and seems to have more meaningful content now. As a 20-something girl, it's sometimes hard to find a magazine that isn't too old or too young to read. It's nice to know there's something out there for those of us in our small apartments in LA, with way too many items of clothing and limited closet space, dishes piled up in the sink, just trying to get by...not quite ready for the designer home articles or how-to-please-your-husband spiels.

-My new Mark Toute Sweet "sugar-dipped lip gloss". Yes it's good. I got the Buttercream Brioche flavor, which goes on a sheer light nude color with a bit of shimmer. And the scent is divine. The only drawback is it's a mighty small tube (0.035 ounce!), so I'll have to use only on special occasions to preserve its greatness.

Isn't the packaging cute?

-Pink Magazine. It's a good resource for career women at any level looking for advice and helpful tips. And it's not boring to read!

-Last but not least, Pearl Jam. I love music from the '90s, and I'm welcoming these (hot) guys back with welcome arms. Worldwide Suicide makes me dance in my bedroom.

Three cheers for low-end beauty goodness

2006-04-03T21:27:00.000-07:00

There's something about Avon lip balms ... As a kid the Avon lady would come with her magalogs and we'd pour over it, dogearing the page with items we coveted, always finding some seasonal balm to suit our fancy-- whether it's a Care Deeply calendar balm for the New Year, a Dew Kiss (in hopes glossy lips would lead to kissing a cute boy), or an Easter balm with eggs, chicks, or some other sweet notion. They never disappoint, the packaging is always cute and it's a small, under-a-dollar thrill.

The Candy Mix balms are out now, and I got the Sour Patch Kids, er, Candy Green, and Sweet Treat Pink (think SweetTarts) varieties. Candy Green is more of a creamy, buttery candy flavor, not sour like I had anticipated, but still quite nice.

Another Avon guilty pleasure: Glazewear. Not only is the texture soft and almost "pudding-y", but they smell like freshbaked donuts. Yum. I won't even go into how this one Holy Grail, limited edition pinky-nude shimmery sheer Glazewear has been MIA. Luckily there are plenty of nice colors to keep me intrigued. I just ordered Mirage from my new Avon lady. And $2.99 ... so worth it.

And I can't forget to mention Mark, Avon's cool little sister. The products have a younger feel to them, without screaming big glitter chunks and tween. More like a twenty-something-on-a-budget's best friend. I love the Juice Gems. Like Juicy Tubes without the stickiness and a neat felt-tip applicator. I adore my baby pink Juicy Cassis. I'm not quite sure what a cassis is, but the scent is very fresh and not too cloying (i.e. I don't have to wipe it off or risk getting a headache from it). Sheer pink color, a lot of shine. Only six bucks, which beats J.T.s. I tried the Juicy Papaya, though, and sadly the scent is different (more strong, too-sweet raspberry?) and it's a darker pink with some fine glitter. Not for me, but it won't stop me from trying the Juicy Pomegranate next order.

Cute site of the day: CuteOverload. Be sure to check out the bunnies folder!

New blog, new Tab

2006-04-02T23:45:00.000-07:00

Tonight I tried the new Tab Energy, being a fan of the original (hard-to-find) Tab in its signature pink can, I had to sample this new formula.

It's definitely not like the old Tab (which is more sweet cola)-- it has a fruity, lighter taste and thankfully no aftertaste. It's hard to discern exactly what it tastes like-- but it's pretty crisp. If I ever grab an energy drink for a pick-me-up I'll try it again. I found it at the checkout at Target, and in packs at Longs.

I started this blog to muse about current happenings in pop culture, review beauty products, fashion, makeup...All things me.