New Year's Eve Planning

As my friend Steve says, New Year's Eve is for amateurs. I tend to agree so, my plan is usually to stay in- sometimes with friends and sometimes on my own (yes, with my little kitty- no crazy cat lady jokes please). She is a cuddly kitty.

As I was looking through Facebook, I noticed there is a "Happy Endings" marathon on TV.  Hmmm... Suddenly an evening of sparkling wine, sweats, TV comedy (love Casey Wilson!) & the ball drop at midnight sounds like the perfect way to ring in 2014.

After work, my plans are set!
Happy Pre-New Year everyone.
Be safe. Be happy. Be sparkly.

Henri Bendel Fan

For the past year plus, I have been obsessed with Henri Bendel. It's started with a bracelet I saw in In Style magazine that I requested for a gift from my Mom. She bought it plus more. Bracelets plural plus a ring and a coffee mug and a beach bag...

www.henribendel.com

This Christmas it looked like Henri vomited in my living room (thanks Mom & Dad!)
Jewelry, iPhone case, hair accessories, more jewelry, candles, purse.... AND luggage! The main event.
All in the recognizable brown & white striped boxes with brown & white polka dot bows. I'm in love.

I have been to the flagship store on 5th Avenue in Manhattan twice. Complete kid in a candy store.
Last time, Vanessa tagged along and bought jewelry for her girls. Of course with my approval.

There is no Henri store in Northern Cal, but there are a few in So Cal (work trips), Las Vegas & Mall of America in Minnesota.  Yeah. But I am partial to 5th Avenue.

Fashion galore. The website is great too. I can peruse for hours...
Check out the site on the link above.
Happy Shopping!

Merry Christmas To All &...

I love the Christmas season- Christmas Eve & Christmas Day especially. This year was no different.  Mom & Dad are here from Minnesota.  Work leading up to these days is very hectic, but once the holiday arrives, a input that behind me.

This year has been no exception. Some of my Christmas 2013 highlights:

Wine tasting before Christmas Eve dinner
Taco bar as a new Christmas Eve dinner (yummy)
Mom's cookies and pies
Lots & lots of fun Henri Bendel gifts
Hawaiian coconut & pineapple pancakes for Christmas breakfast
Rest and relaxation with the family

That's what the holiday season is all about to me. The joy of fun events and spending time with loved ones.
Next up, New Year's Eve...
'Tis the season again

All Around So Cal

Orange County, Inland empire, San Diego, the Valley, Burbank, Universal City... All places I spent time over a 6 day period last week.

It all kinda runs together, but let's see what I can remember as some recommendations.

The OC is not always as great as it sounds. I always thought "beach"- blame in the the shows  "The OC" and "Laguna Beach". It's not that exciting in general. But Disney is there.

Inland Empire... Found a great new place. Slater's 50/50. Burgers half ground beef and half ground bacon. Wow. Plus they had 102 bears on tap. Wow again. Did not experience either- just had wine- but will return. Burgers looked amazing.

San Diego was rainy. Bummer. Wish it was not... But after all, it was work time. Another time...

Thursday drove the coast the San Louis Obispo. Such a gorgeous drive. I think I could live  there.

LA weather is grand. Sites are pretty. Traffic sucks, but you deal with it. Love it there.

Good week- give Slater's 50/50 a try folks. I guess that's a wrap.

Malibu County Mart

I am in love with the Malibu County Mart. Ever since we hung out with Pierce Brosnan at the movies. Volcano I think.... Years ago. Anyway, something about it haunts me in a good way.

Oliver Peoples sunglasses. Planet Blue clothes. Malibu Kitchen. Marmalade Cafe. Across from the beach. Stopping to enjoy The Coffee Bean. Gelato. More boutiques. Heaven. Pure heaven.

This trip I picked up a new pair of Olivers. Imagine that. Plus the softest bell-bottom lounge pants from Planet Blue I have ever touched. Can't wait to lounge now.  Christmas?

Take a trip down the PCH. Worth it.

Holiday Weekend in LA

Chelsea Lately taping. Yummy dinners. Shopping. Grinchmas at Universal Studios. Malibu fun.

That is what this weekend has in store for Shannon and me in our Holiday in LA. Fun stuff.

After work Thursday and Friday, we played. The Chelsea taping was a bucket list item. Loved it. Chelsea. Chuey. Comedians. Thanks Shannon for getting tickets.

Last night we hung at The Grove. Love that outdoor mall- especially during the holidays. So festive. If you are there this week, check out the cork art honoring Cougar Town (show on TBS). And the fountain. And people watching.

For now, work is done for 2 days. Off to the gym so we can enjoy more tasty eats. Falalalala....

The Christmas Month

December 7... The first week of the most festive month of the year is also most complete.  I am lucky to be enjoying it in Honolulu, Hawaii. Yeah.

I do travel for work almost 3 weeks out of every month- give or take a few days.  People who do not travel for work think it's glamorous. For those of us who do, 3 words. IT IS NOT.

However, I do make the most of it. When I can. And I often have hilarious stories to boot. This beginning of December Hawaii trip is definitely on the "most of it".

Thanksgiving came and went in my retail whirlwind. Although, I did make a big turkey that was moderately successful. Worked all weekend and then off to Hawaii for work.  After 4 days of punching the clock, I get 1.5 days of blissful fun, sun & more in Waikiki at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Yeah me!

After a fun evening, it's time for some exercise, beach, shopping, eating... Ooh-la-la!  Can't wait for more.
Happy December to all.

November Craziness

My last post about 2 weeks ago was about the joy of November (scents & all). Today it's about the craziness of the holiday season- especially in retail. Over the past 2 weeks, I was in California, went to Park City, then to Minnesota and then back to California- oh- and off to Las Vegas tomorrow!

Park City was by far the best. While for the most part I despise snow, in PC I adore it. Love the mountain snow (also nice when no shoveling and parking underground is involved of course). I was able to relax a bit before another few busy work days on the road. I love watching the snow fall when I am in front of the fire, enjoying some of PC's delicious restaurants and going to my favorite spa. Align Spa if you have never been. Love. Check it out.

Minnesota was nice because I got to see Mom & Grandma, but it is amazing how much time changes can affect a body and a moods. Seriously.  But, moving on...

Getting ready for the big Thanksgiving weekend in retail. I love it and hate it at the same time. Love the excitement... I will leave it at that.

I am getting ready to pick up the food for the feast, decide which photos will go on the holiday card, and enjoying a little kitty time with the Hallmark channel before I fly on a jet plane again tomorrow.

Turkey, mashed potatoes, yams, veggies, rolls... Oh my!

Pumpkin Flavors & More

Making my Pumpkin Spice Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf coffee this morning, I was thinking about all the pumpkin flavored foods that come out of the woodwork this time of year,. Yum! Pinterest is a haven for these foods.

Cheesecake, cupcakes, regular cake, bundt cake, pie, bread, cookies.. Oh my goodness.

And don't get me started on the scents. Candles. Room spray. Wow.
Cannot get enough.

And then there is Apple... S'mores...  Other spices... Pine needles.... Christmas trees.

Oh! And soap. Body lotion. Hand lotion. Body scrubs. The list is endless.

Eating. Shopping. Gift giving. It's a magical time.
I'm all sorts of giddy.

Nordstrom Rack Virgin

I have always heard how great Nordstrom Rack is. Never been.  This past week, in Seattle, there happened to be one in the parking lot of my hotel and I hopped in after dinner one night.

It was like my yellow brick road of shopping. Love.

Purses, scarves, shoes, jewelry, jeans... Oh my.

I bought a myself a Kate Spade purse at a great price and a Kate Spade IPad case for under $30 plus a few Christmas gifts for friends. My 90 minutes inside felt like 10 minutes. Time flies....

A prettier, more organized,  better designers Marshalls or TJ Maxx. Much better.

I think I found a winner here. I'll be back. You can count on it.

Interesting Food Combos

I realize it's fairly standard to eat "breakfast for dinner", right? I believe I took it one step further tonight. Cereal and wine.  Ok,  not IN the cereal; milk in the cereal- wine on the side. Weird? Maybe.

Recently I had a crumpet with Nutella. Yum. That is a new fave. With a pickle on the side. For real.

Ok, I am sure you will see more unique food pairings to come.
Nighty night.

Happy Halloween!!!

Sitting at home handing out candy to the kiddos while drinking wine... Reminiscing about Halloweens of the past.  Some of my favorite memories:

Dressing up as a Playboy bunny before the age of 13
Using a pillow case for  Trick or Treating to hold the oodles of candy
Dressing up as a pair of dice made with a box, some string and black felts dots
The excitement of being allowed to wear a Halloween costume to school
Those ridiculous plastic masks with the "body part" that looked like a colored plastic bag
..... I think I remember Wonder Woman???
Disliking when I got "adult candy" such as Snickers, Milky Way or 3 Musketeers
Really disliking popcorn balls (still do!)
Actually liking a toothbrush and floss (yes, I was a kid who loved  fresh teeth and breath)

Trick or treating was so much fun as a kid... Safer too.
Now, I love  handing out the treats and seeing my friends cute kids on Facebook.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Cabo

Just got back from Cabo with my Mom, my best friend Andi and her Mom. Super pre-retail holiday vacation.  If you have never been to Cabo San Lucas, I would suggest you go. It's breathtaking and fun.

This trip we got into the habit of working out every morning, hanging by one of the 5 pools and engaging in some fun event at night. Dinners out, shopping, walking the marina or sunset boat cruise.

The weather was perfect and the resort gorgeous. Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach- right outside of the town of Cabo and the Medano Beach area. I have now been there about 7 times and never gets old.

Some highlights.... massages, fruity cocktails at the swim-up bars, dinner at Pocho's at the marina...  But...

Best of all, traveling with mom and good friends is always wonderful. How lucky am I!?

August & September

Mom just reminded me I have not posted for over 2 months. Shame on me. So, this post will have a few updates on what has taken place the last 60 days or so.

Napa wedding at the end of July, ok twist my arm. (End of July)
August...
Meeting in Colorado Springs for work. Love the mountains.
Visit from Little Amy in Park City. More mountain fun. Plus great food. Plus hiking. Plus Art fair fun.
50's House Wife themed wedding shower for Cousin Kelsey (I played bartender!)

September...
Amazing trip to NYC with Vanessa. Sightseeing, shopping, walking, eating... Great trip over Labor Day Weekend.
Another weekend trip to Park City. Yeah.
Last but not least, visit to San Fran from Emily.  Wine country, wharf... Fun. With ducks.

Overall, thanks Amy, Vanessa and Emily for some memorable weekends.  August and September were great. Lots of warm weather... Starting to cool down now. Welcome Fall.

Now, to begin October, I am in Minnesota over the weekend. More to come on that later...
Thanks for the excitement, August and September.

July Heat

My excuse for not updating my blog for 1 month is the July heat... It's been crazy. Really hot.
But it's been a good month despite the heat.

More fun in Napa. Dinners out with friends. A low key 4th of July. Work travel. Comedy for Jarrod's birthday. Home repairs.  Goo Goo Dolls & Matchbox 20 concert.

Also loving some Summer TV. Castle reruns. Mistresses. Royal Pains. Giuliana & Bill. Rizzoli & Isles. Cedar Cove. Who says Summer TV is bad?

Hot weather makes it great for exercise via swimming too. Love that I have pool. And it's kept clean.

Preparing for more Summer trips. Park City with Amy & NYC over Labor Day weekend with Vanessa. Yeah.

That about does it... Bought a cute new shirt from Distinctively Hers. Check it out on-line. Trying to cure my ice cream addiction by eating low-cal frozen Cool Whip instead.  Just a few random facts.

Excited for a Napa wedding this weekend and off to Colorado Springs next week. More to come...

Latest Obsessions

Sitting here in lovely Park City... Sun shining, light mountain breeze... In my element, minus the sinus allergies. Yuck.  But won't let that hold me back.  So thankful to be here relaxing.

Just thinking about what is jazzing me up these days.  One again, very random- my obsessions these days:

The most amazing carmalized brussel sprouts from Ciao Bella in Minneapolis.

Just as amazing baked Brie from Purple in Seattle.

Trying unique ways to holistically control sinus allergies- warm, wet compressions on my sinuses, neti pot, steam.... This on top of Allegra D recommended by the doc. Help!

Trying colors other than red or pink shades on my toes- sporting some sort of OPI salmon-peach version right now. Pretty!

Peach and nectarine season- yummy! Love my fruit.

The film "The Bling Ring"- cant way to see it! Especially since Gavin Rossdale is in it! Wow.

Stupid, but fun movies to watch on Lifetime as Summer begins... Jodi Arias story... Anna Nicole Smith story... Ha! Yes they will be DVR'd.

My new Urban Decay "Baked" eye shadow palette recommended by girlfriend Rachel- I can't decide what color to use each day- oh decisions....

We will stick with that for today. Fun obsessions. Keeping it light on a Saturday. Cheers.

What You Can Do When You Don't Leave The House

Day 2 of staying home to get healthy... I am definitely not very good at it.

Good news:
Sleep, couch time, meds
Bad news:
I'm a Type A personality who cannot sit still and I am going insane (kinda)

Trying to relax... But getting stuff done too.
What else can a girl do at home besides watch TV, read, sleep and day dream!?

Well, here it is:
Send cards
Order gifts on the Internet
Do a home facial (interestingly enough, also serves as a medical treatment with the steam to help me breath better)
Wash sheets (again, medical treatment to rid of bed mites & germs)
Make plans for the summer
File nails
Send emails
Wash dishes
Take a hot shower (again with the medical focus)
Organize pot & pans (ok, I'm grasping here...)

What else is a girl to do? House is clean. Laundry is done. All closets are organized. Did I mention that in addition to Type A, I am also a bit obsessive compulsive.... For a very organized woman, being lazy is very difficult.

Oh - and I cannot exercise while sick. Drat.
Ok, enough. Back to cheesy Sunday TV.

Sitting Home Sick

I'm not a bad sick person... But I'm not a good sick person either. I know rest is best, but it's hard. Even when I don't feel well.  Ugh.  I have had a cold/cough/bronchial virus/ear infection for over 10 days now. On day 5 of antibiotics. Yuck.  Just want to get better. In the meantime...

Had fun in Minnesota seeing Grandma, the folks and many friends.  Work meetings in MN are always good for that. Dinners out, drinks, exercise with friends.... Much accomplished this past May trip. Thanks MN peeps!

Last weekend I was invited to go sailing with my friend Jen. Fun! Even better when you just get to enjoy and not have to do any work. :) Makes me fall in love with San Francisco even more! Thanks Jen!

Was supposed to head to Reno this weekend for fun and grad party with Vanessa & Rudy, but this darn illness set me back. Bummer. I guess I will have to wait for my trip to NYC with Vanessa in September! Yeah!

For now, rest, relaxation, and TV. That is what is planned for the next 2 days. Will be hard, but ready to give it a shot... Thanks for the help, Comcast & Netflix. 

Cabo Craziness

I posted pictures yesterday- now for some of the highlights.

First, I know it's simple, but the airport has been totally revamped over the last year. Very nice. The old one was quite crappy.

Weather was 100% perfect the entire time we were there. 80 degrees and sunny with a slight breezy.

The night we arrived, we went out to dinner downtown at Hacienda Los Coyotes, Yum! Highly recommend it. Rachel said the Mango Margarita was delish and my sangria was tasty. We also had great food. Will go back!

Our first full day was spent at the pool followed by Italian buffet night. Pool rocked with cool new friends from Atlanta, lots of frothy cocktails and of course the pool itself.  Super fun day.  While the food at dinner was not super, the event itself was entertaining. There was a white trash wedding with lots of drama. Fun to observe but not be part of...

Tuesday we had a luxurious spa experience followed by more pool time and hanging out with room service at night. Lets not talk about the 4 desserts we ordered... Relaxed after superb massages, we kept it loose with a dance party in our PJs. Oh, the fun...

Midweek we went to Medano Beach to parasail and swim in the ocean. Loved it! Can never parasail enough! So tranquil. That night, Retro BBQ Night with a 70's, 80's & 90's dance show. It was classic. So much fun to watch! The dancers made us giggle.

Thursday was more pool time, another spa excursion and a trip into town for shopping & drinks at Cabo Wabo. No Sammy Hagar this time, but still fun nonetheless. Every trip to Cabo must have a pop into Cabo Wabo.

Last full day, time at the sky pool and a sunset boat cruise at the marina. Great way to end the fabulous week!

Pueblo Sunset Beach resort is wonderful- pretty, clean and lots to do.  Cabo itself continues to expand with fun things in town and at the marina. And last, but certainly not least, my company of Shannon and Rachel made it perfect. Girls trip at its best!
Oh how I love Cabo San Lucas!

Cabo San Lucas

Time to post some fabulous Cabo San Lucas pictures...

Arrival!



Me at the pool with my Miami Vice (one of many!)

Our Villa

Dinner Night #1

On Our Way to Parasailing!

Me & Medano Beach!

Cabo Wabo Baby!

Final Night Sunset Boat Cruise- Vogue!!!

Orlando- Fun, Humidity & All

Last post was arriving in Orlando.  Since then, I spent several days in Florida, came back home to California and then off to Mexico for vacation in Cabo San Lucas. But for now, let's focus on Orlando.

Sunday, birthday day, was a "me" day before the week of meetings began. Room service breakfast, gym, Epcot Center and ending with drinks with co-workers. I have not been to Epcot for several years- this time it was the International Garden & Flower festival. So pretty!

It was the standard hot & humid weather.  Shorts, t-shirt, tennis shoes & pony tail to ward off the crazy heat and sweat.  I walked and rode for about 5 hours.  Yes, the sweat found it's way regardless of my attempts to keep it at bay. Oh well. 

* Loved the Nemo ride!
* Tasty food in Japan while watching the shows
* Ellen's Energy show got me out of the heat for 30 mins
* Carter Oosterhouse presenting at the Garden Show was some good eye candy
* Always love the agriculture ride/tour
* Loved watching the kiddos screaming for joy with the characters

I am good on Epcot for several more years. Fun day.

Really glad to gave this free birthday fun time before 4 days of long, early meetings for work (which were good too BTW).  Never had to spend much time outside after Sunday- hair stayed in tact. No Gilda Radner this time :)

Home from Orlando.  Next up Cabo. More on that fabulous trip to come!
Thanks for the hospitality, Central Florida.

Since last time, some time in the Bay... Some time in Park City... Some time in LA.... Now some time for more fun!

6 days in Orlando for work followed by 7 days in Cabo San Lucas for vacation. Yes, Florida is for work, but I am finding some time for fun before it starts. Since tomorrow is my birthday, and anyone who knows me knows it's an important day to me, I'm planning some Disney fun before the work begins.

Theme park fun, a few cocktails and then onto work. Because I work with some really cool peeps, the meeting should be fun too.  And... Maybe some musical entertainment one night???

And counting down the days to Cabo with Shannon and Rachel. Can't wait! Full on relaxation is required.

More... With my new Henri Bendel obsession, Mom did well with birthday gifts from her, Dad, Jarrod & Grandma. Jewelry, travel gear, etc. love it all! Fun to open before my flight to Orlando.  I have the best family ever.

And still more... I still LOVE Virgin airlines. Right now, because I paid $69 to sit in an exit row, I am eating a free protein plate lunch and watching a free movie. This is how to fly in style. Makes. 6 hour flight fly right by...

I am sure there will be some I share from Orlando soon. I hope...
Bring on the humidity!

Wine County Favorites

Oh how I love my wine county days... Yesterday was no exception.  I made plans to hit my 2 favorite wineries, which luckily happen to be closest to my home- Artesa and Domaine Carneros. Both are a stones throw from the Carneros Inn which has some awesome restaurants too. Did not indulge this trip, but will later!

My neighbor Jennifer and I made a day of it. First up.... Artesa. It was super busy, but as a member, we had the private room (yes, I am aware that sounds snobby, but when it comes to wine, I don't care). Lots of yummy Pinots (my weakness) and more. Then off to The Lodge at Sonoma for lunch at Carneros Bistro. Think creamy asparagus soup with fresh Dungeness crab. Jennifer enjoyed some swordfish tacos that she said were to die for. Yum!

After refueling, we headed to Sonoma Square for Eric K James winery. A very unique, eclectic boutique tasting room. Left there, after wine tasting, with some blood orange olive oil & some pomegranate balsamic vinegar. Wow! Can't wait to try those soon...

Last, but certainly not least, was Domaine Carneros for bubbles! Enter squeal with delight here. Not to mention the lovely sparkling cheese plate to accompany the flight.  So delightful. What a way to end the day. Again, in the private tasting room. Do you see a trend here?

Left home at 11am. Home by 6pm. Fabulous wine day. Just enough. I sure do love living here.
Happy "wining" to all!

Easter Happiness

April Greetings!

The day before Easter, I made a snap decision  to cut off several inches of my hair. Very happy with it. Still long enough for a pony tail. All good.

Pretty hair calls for going out for Easter Brunch. Berkeley was on tap this year.

Gather across from Cal State. Healthy, sustainable, non-GMO, local.. Good stuff.
Shared lots.
Kale salad.
Breakfast sandwich on brioche.
Amber wheat pancakes.
Vegan cookies.
Mimosa.

So very yummy. So many good places to eat in Berkeley.  No jelly beans. No colored eggs. Just good good & good company. Very pleasant Easter.

Now, April showers are bringing lots of green. So refreshing. Love California.  It costs more, but worth it.

I think this also calls for a new spring wardrobe. Hmmm....
More to come.

Long Few Weeks

It's been a very long few weeks... Most of it work related... Because I don't like to blog much about work nor complain, let's skip right past that....

Through the busy craziness, I did have a fun Oscars night (right after my last post) and a few very fun, relaxing-as-possible days in Naples, Florida with Mom & Dad in the beginning of this month.

That's what I prefer. Time with the folks, sleeping, ocean air, cocktails, Dad cooking, beach, boat, good restaurants..... Most of all,  just love sitting on the lanai overlooking the lake.  Ahhhh....

Aside from that, enjoying DVR.... Trying to relax. Cuddling my kitty. Enjoying the warming Bay Area weather. Scheduling time with friends. Trying to breath.

Looking forward to a hike tomorrow and dinner with friends.  Waiting for things to calm down just a tad....
Happy Weekend,

Wine & Awards!

Had a super fab day in Sonoma yesterday. I had no clue that Robert Kamen winery existed- Kamen is a screenwriter who has written The Karate Kid, Taken, etc. Love the film theme at the tasting room! The wine is expensive, but good. I bought 1 bottle of "Writer's Block". Fun!

Also found "Sigh" - a great sparkling & champagne place that I loved.  So much fun! We spent quite a bit of time there and walked away with a few bottles. Highly recommend!

Hit a few more tasting rooms, had some yummy thin crust pizza and salad... All around a super Sonoma day with friends.

Enjoyed a great day with friends, got lots of sleep and now ready for a day of awards. The Oscars! Fashion and celebrities galore! Good thing I have some special wines to enjoy the day...

Recommendations for today:
Robert Kamen wines
Sigh sparkling fun

Enjoy celebrity day, everyone!

Tourist Time

You often hear- "Be a tourist in your own town"- I kinda did that last night with Rachel & Rachel! So fun!

Drove into the city and viewed Alcatraz from the Bay bridge
Saw the Bay bride beautifully lit up from the Embarcadero- great angle for photographers
Watched a few cable cars drive by
Had a glass of wine in a cheesy sailor-themed bar
Walked by Ghiradelli Square at night- pretty
Enjoyed a traditional seafood dinner at old school Scoma's on the water
Got chatted up by a toothless homeless man on the street

These are just a few fab things about the city by the Bay. Well, I could have skipped the homeless man. What a fun night.  Thanks San Francisco, Rachel & Rachel!

Evolve Your Fitness Routine???

My friend, Jennifer Weland, is a fitness and lifestyle coach. She recently launched a new, "at home" fitness program especially designed for busy women who want to lose weight (of course), tone up, shave inches, have more energy and build the healthy habit that will help them stay that way. 

It's called the 8-Week Challenge and it includes all of this: 

• 8 weekly workout plans and video demonstrations of the exercises
• 2, 20-minute coaching calls with Jennifer
• Weekly emails with tops for success, Meal ideas & healthy recipes
• Tools & resources to help you be successful
• Plenty of motivation & support from Jennifer and through a private Facebook group just for Challenge participants.

You can join whenever you're ready to get started (there's no set time period). And through March 15, you can join for just $89 (regularly $149). 

Check out the details and sign up at: www.evolvefitnessandcoaching.com/8-week-challenge. 

Much About Nothing

Well not even that.. Not much to say about this past week.

Traveled to LA for a few days. Busy work week.
Flew to Utah Friday morning to spend a relaxing weekend in Park City. Beautiful weather. Relaxation. Good food. Gym time.  Lots of movies.

Sleep, Gym, Work, Eat. Drink. Drive. Fly.
That is all for the past 5 days prior to the weekend.

I did watch "What To Expect When You're Expecting". Cute.
Watching "Man On A Ledge" right now.  Decent.

Updated my Netflix que, 24 movies to see. Now I just need more time to spent at home to see them!

That is all for this week.  Looking forward to time at home and outings with friends this week.
Happy Belated Valentines Day!

The "To-Do List"

I have been working on my To-Do list for the past 2 days while I am home for the weekend, before I travel again for work.  Finished everything on it.  Here goes:

Called or texted all my friends
Wrote a few letters (yes, paper letters)
Sent a few emails
Went to the bank
Went to the candy store (gifts)
Went to the gym (twice)
Cleaned the leafs off the patio
A home facial
A few loads of laundry
Washed and unloaded the dishwasher
Got a pedicure
Sent electronics to recycling
Cleaned a few carpet stains
Paid some bills
Went to the grocery store
Went to the drugstore
Organized all drawers and cabinets
Organized the linen closet
Washed bed sheets
Changed kitty litter
Prepared all February & March Birthday cards
Filled bags for clothing donation
Cleaned out my purse
Washed all the rugs in the house
Scheduled a massage for next weekend

Anything I missed?

Bam. How is that for completing my list? Ahhhh.....
Now it's time for more DVR catch-up before the Grammy's begin tonight.
Until my list builds up again.... They always do!

Random Friday Night

Just thinking about last night.....bad cold... but dinner out with Jennifer was great.
Delicious shaved veggie salad (shared)
Tasty glass of white wine that was the special (wish I remember what it was!?)
Scrumptious margarita pizza with roasted chicken (shared)
Wonderful dinner at Pizza Antica in Lafayette- highly recommend.

When I got home, Jarrod and I watched "Ted" on DVD. Ok, I was expecting tons of raunchy humor based on what I have been told.  Did not get it.  Did not think it was all it was cracked up to be.  Sure, there were a few funny lines...  but still... a talking bear? I guess just not my thing.

Not horrible, but not what was hoping for.  Dinner was great. Relaxation on the couch was great. Fell asleep at the end of "Ted".

Now, just want my cold to go away.  Neti pot, meds, sleep, Vitamin C, water.... trying all I can.  Guess my excuse of a lazy Saturday is what I need.

Have a great weekend!

Flu- Blah

I don't have much to say today other than this:

I have never had a flu shot before this year. Had one a few weeks back. All WAS good.
Yesterday, I woke up so incredibly congested and it is much worse today. Cannot breath. Cannot stop sneezing.  Just starting coughing. Blah.

Is this the flu? Or is this just a bad cold?  I had one in December.... I should be done.  It's making my
"To-Do" list not getting done.  That is not good.
It's making me lazy and afraid I am going to miss my workouts.  Again, blah.

Other than that, I am eating healthy, taking vitamins and getting plenty of sleep.  Is this my punishment for being healthy?

Well, after work tomorrow, I guess it will be a relaxing weekend.
Get a pedicure (nice toes make me feel better)
Watch the movie "Ted" (hear it's dirty-funny)
Cuddle with my kitty
Sleep

I think that's all.  I am boring for now- too congested to say more.
Hope you are all healthy!

My Favorite Sundance Pics

 

 

ASHTON KUTCHER IN "jOBS"

AMY & CASEY WILSON (HAPPY ENDINGS)

DARIEN, AMY & KARI POST FILM VIEWING AT ECCLES

DARIEN, AMY & KARI WAITING IN LINE FOR A FILM

AMY & DARIEN AT FILM MAKERS LODGE ON MAIN STREET

CAST OF "BREATHE IN" FEATURING GUY PEARCE, FELICITY JONES & AMY RYAN

KARI & JOSH RADNOR (HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER)

DARIEN, KARI & AMY AT THE FOUNDRY GRILL AT SUNDANCE RESORT

DARIEN & SHANNON AT SUNDANCE RESORT

MAIN STREET AFTER SNOWFALL DURING SUNSET

End of Sundance

Well, once again Sundance came to a close.  I was not great at updating my blog while at Sundance- so here is a general recap of what I failed to post after the first few days:

8 movies-
LOVED "jOBS"
LOVED "Fruitvale" (won both the main dramatic grand and audience awards)
Really liked "Emanuel and the Truth About Fishes"
Really liked "In A World..."
Really like "Two Mothers"
Liked "Breathe In"
Liked "Before Midnight"
Loathed "The Rambler"

There you have it.
Aside from the films...

Both 90-minute massages at Align Spa were fantastic.
Both meals at Purple Sage were superb-
Blue cheese fondue, wedge salad, spinach salad, corn chowder, boneless fried chicken, green beans, and butterscotch pudding (of course, not all at once!)
Dinner at Grub Steak was tasty and fun
Both brunches at The Foundry Grill at Sundance Resort were to die for
An impromptu parade on Main Street was comical and new
Time at the gym took place to work off said food (needed more of that!)
The company over both weekends was fabulous
Seeing Chris Noth, Casey Wilson, Josh Radnor and Ashton Kutcher were highlights

The mountain air, snow, excitement of the festival and all-around-glory of every January kept a smile on my face and a skip in my step.  Oh the joys!

Thanks Lil Amy, Kari and Shannon for 2 fun weekends in Park City for Sundance 2013!
I recommend it to all- see ya at Sundance 2014!

Sundance Part 1 Recap

Bummer.... Sundance Part 1 has come to a close.  Fun times.  3 more days until Sundance Part 2 weekend.

Last post I updated Thursday and Friday- now here is Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

Saturday
Relaxation
Movie #2- "Breathe In"
Starring Guy Pearce, Felicity Jones and Amy Ryan
Decent. Typical Sundance film.
Yummy steak dinner at Grub Steak House (delicious salad bar)

Sunday
Gym
Trip to Sundance Resort for brunch
Lots and lots of tasty food followed by shopping, walking, hanging by the ski lift fire pit
Movie #3- "Before Midnight"
Starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy- 3rd in the series
Ok- great writing and acting, but not the best story this time

Monday
Movie #4-  "Emanuel and the Truth About Fishes"
Starring Jessica Biel- best movie of the weekend- loved it
Followed by lots of food, drinks, shopping, walking and celebrity stalking on Main Street
Super fun day!
Movie #5- The Rambler
Starring Dermot Mulroney..... Awful. That's all. Nothing else to say.

Highlights of weekend #1-
Purple Sage dinner- wow! Loved the fried chicken without the bone
Massage at Align spa
Hanging out at Sundance Resort on Sunday
Blueberry stuffed French toast at Foundry Grill during brunch
Bellinis at brunch too
Seeing Jane Lynch, Chris Noth and Casey Wilson on Main Street on Monday
And, of course, Amy & Kari!

Love Sundance!!!!! Thanks Robert Redford.

Sundance 2013

And so another year of Sundance is upon us. Best week of the year! The films, the celebs, the general excitement in the air!

I guess I never have explained how this works....
Sundance started in Utah in 1981 by Robert Redford.  Each year it seems to get bigger and bigger.  Park City has a population of approximately 8,000 that increases to approximately 50,000 for the 11 days of Sundance. There are approximately 100 films that premier about 5 times each in various theatre venues.  Most often, the celebrities who star in the films attend the #1 premier and conduct Q&A after the film.  This is the best!  Private parties, great restaurants, musical events, cocktails and shopping surround the films.  And lots of relaxation and spa time for us too!

I fell in love with Sundance and Park City when I first visited over 12 years ago.  Because of this, and how expensive it is to attend each year, I decided to invest in a condo which I purchased about 3-4 years ago. Now I experience Park City more than once per year!

Now for the Festival itself..... Not as easy as simply showing up. Movie tickets are hard to come by- registering for various lotteries and time slots months prior. Dinner reservations must be acquired months prior. Lots of planning and juggling times & events. Some ups and some downs- luck of the draw many cases.  But after several years, without industry connections, we seem to have mastered the game the best we can.  Now that you have the background, here is a little bit of the start of Sundance 2013.

Thursday Jan 17
Arrival day!
Amy and Kari for Sundance Round 1 (Thursday thru Tuesday)
Settle, shop, sip is a good way to describe the start
Dinner at the BEST place in Park City- PURPLE SAGE
Amazing food, service and libations- Purple Bubbles was the new cocktail this year!
Meeting the Gasoline Lollipops on Main Street after dinner (you had to be there)

Friday Jan 18
Gym, spa, relax, Film #1
"Two Mothers" with Naomi Watts & Robin Wright Penn
Started out the festival with a very traditional Sundance flick- this one was about 2 best friends who fall in love with each others son. Huh.
I enjoyed it. Naomi Watts was there. Great way to start the films (1 of 8 for me).
We missed Dave Grohl's Sound City concert, but we saw the heart of Sundance with this film.

Today is a new day. Saturday brings a ton more. Stay tuned.

Golden Globes Sunday!

The best awards show of the season- don't get me wrong... Oscars are huge (but too long and boring), Emmy's (TV only), People's Choice (just fan votes) and SAG (SAG comes in a close 2nd).  Golden Globes are the best because they are film, TV and the best fashion!  So excited!

Red carpet starts in 30 minutes!  Love Seacrest, Guliana, Kelly, George.... (I can do without Joan Rivers in this case).  And I am also excited that they take place BEFORE Sundance this year, so I do not have to miss them.  But before they begin, a few cold January Sunday thoughts.

It is beautiful, but FREEZING cold in Park City, Utah this weekend... BRRRR!!!
Is anyone else as excited for "The Carrie Diaries" to start as moi? SATC prequel.... Love it!
I had Subway for lunch..... First time I have been to a Subway that is Zagat rated with a sticker!? I guess Nations #1 healthiest fast food option is good, but....
Does anyone else feel like they have an icicle on the tip of their nose right now? Again, BRRR!!!
What do you think of HBO's "GIRLS"? Just watched a few episodes. I think I am intrigued.
I just read "Rockettes, Rockstars & Rockbottom" by dancer Keltie Colleen. I am a slight bit obsessed now & have been doing some internet/google stalking.

Ok, enough for now.  Time to prep some tea (warm) to watch the Globes.  Can't wait! More fashion info to come!
Ta Ta once again.

Post Holiday Weekend

Back from a little more than 48 hours of fun in Minnesota with friends and family.  Here is how the excitement worked out:

Stayed with Mom & Dad
Lunch with Fun Amy at Big Bowl
Delivery Pizza Luce with Andi, Mark & Noah
Breakfast with Eve & Erica at Jensen's
Lunch at Mill Valley Kitchen with Grandma, Mom, Kathie & Carrie
Apps & cocktails with Sue, Kelsey & Maggie at Cafe Maude
More cocktails with the 4 above plus Brian & Katie
Brunch at Emily's shower
Last dinner with Jen at Granite City

Do you see a theme here? Food & friends. Lots of each.  Oh- I did see Kari for 30 mins and Shannon for about 20 mins without food (well, does the produce department at Target count?)

Good news is I did work out Sunday morning, while Mom  chatted with me, to work some of it off.  Super great time seeing everyone and catching up after the holidays.  And Minnesota weather cooperated. That is rare.

Lucky to have the frequent flier miles.  Luckier to have such great people in my life.
Pictures will be posted soon!

Post Holiday Celebration

You know how there is often a big let-down after Christmas & New Years?  Not here! Taking the red-eye tonight to spend 3 days in MN to hang out with family and friends.  How fun!

After a little sleep and work, let the excitement begin....

Lunch and dinner with various good friends the first day
Breakfast with the girls Saturday morning, a cousin's lunch and cocktails of some sort that evening
Some exercise, a tad more Mom & Dad time, a baby shower and ending with one more friend's dinner
Sprinkle in a little snow, shopping & sipping (wine, that is)
Back home Sunday night

2.5 days (.5 due to work and sleep)- opportunity to see over 10 friends and family members.  Not bad..  Lots to accomplish.  Fabulous people to see.

Giggling infants to visit, babies on the way, favorite restaurants that I have missed, gossip & stories- it's all anticipated.  Now just trying to stay awake before I head to the airport....

Have a fabulous weekend- see ya next week with more updates.

Happy New Year!

Happy 2013 Blog-land!

The new year is here and I am anticipating a great one!  Move on from 2012 and bring on a prosperous 2013.
As I have said before, I do not do resolutions- they simply set you up for failure.  Therefore, just a few focuses on how to live life in the new year:

6 things for 2013 focus for me- 4 that I will talk about and 2 are just for me and God (and I discuss with Casey kitty too)- plus, they are about others and not me- not fair to share.

* Continue a healthy lifestyle- exercise, sleep, vitamins, relaxation, eat healthy and treat myself from time to time
* Love what I do for a living- whether it's my current job or a different one, only do something I love for work
* Plan fun adventures with people I love all year long- vacations, weekends away, trying new things....
* Home Improvements- update and fix things that have been "on the list" in both San Fran and Park City homes

That is all.  Not "stop smoking" (I don't smoke) or "loose weight" (again, failure- just live healthy).

I feel like 2013 WILL be lucky 13, but as always, it's what you make it.
Starting with:
Just got back from a long walk (healthy)
Excited for work this week (work)
Sundance in 2 weeks! (fun)

Way to go 2013!