Faith_Styles

Tribute to my Grandfather

2012-01-12T22:33:00.000-08:00

Tribute to my Grandfather

As a kid, growing up, grandpa had always instilled a hardworking and independent mindset in me and my cousins. I have always remembered my grandfather as a man who was highly independent. He wasn't one who leaned on others to get things done, he would do it on his own as long as he was in good health--Rarely did I hear him complain. He exemplified someone with power who didn't abuse it. He commended respect not by force or fear but by his actions. He cared for his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Grandpa wasn't one who spoke a lot, but when he did, his words had that much more significance and impact.

I will always remember my Grandfather as an honorable man who had integrity, tenacity, kindness and his optimistic outlook on life.

My Grandfather has led a fulfilling and blessed life. He has lived more than 100 + years. He is in a better place watching over us. He will be missed but remember by every one of us.

FIDM Visual Presentation

2011-09-18T15:37:00.000-07:00

The theme for the window is Art Foundation.

Our group decided to have all the names of the artists who receive donation proceeds from the Pollock Foundation mounted in vinyl on the back wall. We create our versions of Pollock inspired paint boards on plexi-glass. Then we hung the paintings at varying lengths to give visual interest and depth.

FIDM projects -Set Design

2011-09-18T15:25:00.000-07:00

For our Materials and Props class, our team of three had to create and design a miniature set of a interior space. We chose to do a Art deco Hotel lobby. Our inspiration came from hotels in Santa Monica, buildings from downtown LA and research.

It was a successful project and we worked well as a team of three, each of us bringing our individual strengths to the table.

Haute Seconds

2010-08-21T17:32:00.000-07:00

Since moving to LA, I found a fantastic consignment store called Haute Seconds right off Wilshire and Princeton in Santa Monica. I think it was love at first sight. The pink awning of the store drew me in.

Unlike most designer resale stores in the area with employees who either a) suffocate you with questions about how they can better assist you or b) ignore you until you spend money......The employees at Haute Seconds are super friendly laid back and give you just the right amount of attention.

The boutique is super cute, organized, amazing collections and they have reasonable prices for both the consignor and the customers.

I highly recommend this place :)!

Hello lover.....

2010-08-21T17:03:00.000-07:00

On my weekly visit to my "go to" consignment store ( Haute Seconds), I stumbled upon these Gucci's feature here in the picture. They were beautiful and amazing....but naturally I knew that since they were brand new, they would cost an arm and a leg. As I set the shoe back down, I instinctively flip the shoe over to check

the price.

The price....... $75. I looked closer to make sure that it wasn't a hallucination--like my mind playing a trick on me by cancelling out the 1 . I took it to the owner to double check the price and she smiled back and said, " Yup it is $75, and this consignor wanted to donate them!"

I was beside myself at this point. The shoes were brand new, exquisite and the price nearly unheard of. I bought them. As I was exiting the store, I kept trying to think of an infallible explanation why the consignor could care less about these shoes. My conclusion......it was a bad relationship and the girl wanted to get rid of every remnants or reminders that she ever had with her lover/husband/boyfriend.

Lucky me I guess :)

Working out doesn't have to be expensive in the city of Angels.

2010-08-08T01:26:00.000-07:00

So in the past two months I found a bunch of yoga, pilates and strength training cardio infused classes that give you the best bang for the buck. There are a lot of donation based studios along 2nd and arizona and the third street promenade.

If you want to try it out to see if it is for you... not a problem in this non-commital city( no pun intended
off course)

These studios have made my list

Yoga: Hot 8 yoga (http://www.hot8yoga.com/)
Intense sweat inducing practice. If you think yoga is boring and slow, check this out and you may change your mind. I always feel a few pounds lighter after sweating like a dog in class. Bring water and hydrate before, during and after to prevent dehydration.
* For new students, you get a free week to try out as many classes as you muster up. Just don't overdo it.

Yoga and Spinning ( http://www.go2yas.com/ and http://www.updogfitness.com/)
Cardio and flexibility training. What do you know......You get the dual benefits from 30 minutes of spinning and 30 minutes of yoga. Whoever came up with that is a genius.
* New students get a freebie and if you have your student ID from school, you get a few dollars knocked off.

Core Fusion/Core sport/Core cardio(http://www.exhalespa.com/)
This would be what I call a bootcamp training. I love the benefits and results from this class. It doesn't matter if you are new or have been a "somewhat veteran" to their bar method....you still feel oh so sore after class for at least 2 to 3 days afterwards. This class utilizes small free weights and your own body weight. You do a lot of repetitive movements and fatigue your muscles to the point of blood sweat'n tears.
* New students get a one week pass that is $40 for unlimited classes, access to their sweet spa and discount on their spa services.

Completely free scenic options:
1) Walking along the Venice boardwalk
2) Walking to the beach
3) Hiking at Runyon Canyon (beautiful scenic trails)

Hollywood rooftop photoshoot with the crew

2010-08-08T01:00:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to work with great people who are in the process of building up their portfolios. Here are some photos from the shoot. In the process of networking, I also got charred from the sun....guess SPF 50 is a necessity when it comes to outdoor photo shoots on the roof.

Los Angeles is finally my home

2010-08-08T00:37:00.001-07:00

I am now a west coast gal. I have seen and lived in my new home for about three months and it has been an adventure indeed. Let me summarize my experience over the last few months.

The weather: Well lets just say........It wasn't as warm as I imagined. I had happily shed my fall and winter clothes and left it on the east coast--now I am regretting my presumptious nature. On the flip side, the 62-70 degree weather without the humidity isn't all that bad.

The restaurant scene: Delicious and fresh. There are more raw food and vegan options out here. Which makes eating healthy a lot more attainable and motivating.

Nightlife: Interesting and diverse. There are a ton of activities for whatever mood you are in. I personally have not tapped into the nightlife as much yet. So far I heard everything closes at 2:30am which makes after parties the talk of town.

Fashion/shopping: Haute and unique. I love it. The second hand/consignment, thrift and resale stores are readily accessible. I personally have to give my biased opinion.....the selections and the prices are fantastic. Looking fabulous in this town is more affordable than what most people think. You just gotta think outside the box and be selectively stingy.

I am so happy that I made my move to the west coast and I cannot wait to share my adventures, new finds and photo shoot experiences with my dedicated followers.

Be shoppertunistic

2010-05-06T05:42:00.000-07:00

Normally I am not a big fan of TJMaxx, Marshalls and/or Ross--- because of the energy you need to expend on digging through junk. However, two days ago I decided to give it a shot. I figured that I only have a few days left on the east coast where the tax rate is much cheaper, so I'm not losing out that much.

I went to TJMaxx and literally within 5 minutes I found a gorgeous pair of tan bourbon color L.A.M.B sandals for .......$69.99. I had to flip the shoe over a couple of times to make sure that I was reading the price tag right.

Lessons learned.....don't judge the book by its cover,wipe out your preconceived notions and take your snob hat down. Cheers!

Shop Smart Part II

2010-04-04T18:12:00.000-07:00

So on my trip back to my favorite resale store, Mustard Seed, I found a brand new sample Cole Haan bag in a rose gold metallic color. As always I had no intentions of buying, but when I saw the bag and the price---AND felt how soft the pebbled leather was underneath my fingertips...I was sold.

The price.....$125. The perks....it fits a hp laptop with the charger, a scarf, cellphone, a cosmetic bag, wallet, keys, water bottle and a magazine. Plus it doesn't weigh down on your shoulder because the straps are long enought to wear over your shoulder but short enough that it keeps the bag from becoming heavy.

Columbia MD photoshoot

2010-04-04T01:12:00.000-07:00

A last minute photo shoot, but such a wonderful experience. I was able to pull my own wardrobe from Rue 14 and Redeem ( some of the great boutiques in the U street district). I also met the great jewelry designer, Thomas Griffith for Couture Saboteur, and I was able to incorporate his exquisite pieces in the shoot.

I attached my two favorite images. ( reference for photo shoot http://www.modelmayhem.com/735981)

SweetpBliss (Sassy Sweets Bloggers Recipe Challenge)

2010-03-26T21:31:00.000-07:00

Okay ladies and gents---a little different take on the normal postings on my blog, instead of
styling people and mannequins, I am styling food.

SweetpBliss
Yields 36 mini quiche size
Great healthy hors d’oeuvres and perfect for quick no fuss snack.

Ingredients:
1 lb of sweet potato (2)
1 tbsp of Olive Oil
¼ tsp of cinnamon
¼ tsp of honey

Ingredients for the pastry crust:
2 cups of flour
¼ cup of cold Milk (2% or skim)
½ cup of Vegetable oil
½ tsp salt
A sprinkle of cinnamon for zing

Garnish:
1) pear
2) mint

Directions:
1) Boil water in a medium to large pot.
2) Peel and cut sweet potatoes into large cubes.
3) When the water comes to a rolling boil, pop the potatoes in and cover with lid.
4) Boil the potatoes for about on medium high heat for about 7 minutes and supervise it.
5) Bring the heat down to low and continue heating the potatoes for another 10 minutes. Check in on the tenderness of the potatoes with a fork or chopstick.
6) Once the potatoes are tender enough and flake easily with slight pressure, remove from heat.
7) Drain the potatoes in a strainer and let it sit for 2 minutes.
8) Using the same pot that is now empty, pour a tbsp of olive oil into the pot, let it heat up until it sizzles slightly.
9) Put the drained potatoes back into the pot and mash it. Make sure that it mixes in with the olive oil.
10) Sprinkle ¼ tsp of cinnamon and ¼ tsp of honey--and mix well. Let the pot sit out to cool.

Pastry crust directions: Heat oven to about 450 degrees.
1) Sift measure flour and salt into a mixing bowl
2) Pour oil into bowl and add cold milk\
3) Stir well with fork until it forms into a soft ball.
4) Take out the mini quiche/cupcake pan and start forming small dough balls (the diameter should be about an inch and a half)
5) Place the dough ball into the slot and press against the compartment to form a mini shell that is about ¼ centimeter thick
6) Place the pastry crust in oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crust begins to lightly brown on the edge.
7) When you take the pastry crust, allow it to cool for 5 minutes.

Final Prep
1) Cut pear into little triangles and set aside
2) Cut up some mint
3) Take a spoon and start spooning the sweet potato mixture into the pastry crust
4) Garnish with a pear and mint. Enjoy

Fulfill the sweet tooth craving

2010-03-24T21:52:00.001-07:00

On Monday, it rained and was quite dreary. While I was waiting in line at Mustard Seed in Bethesda, I heard a customer mention Georgetown Cupcakes and that the flavor of the day was Strawberry.

When I heard that, my mind was set. I had to try these cupcakes out. After my successful trip from Mustard Seed, I decided to walk a few blocks to Georgetown Cupcakes (http://www.georgetowncupcakecom/). I heard a lot of hype about it since October 2009 and figured that it was the perfect antecdote to krap weather.

I entered the fresh store front and was greeted by an sensational aroma. My spirits instantly lifted. I walked over and gingerly inquired about their flavor of the day cupcake. The guy behind the counter replied warmly, "That is correct" and handed me a cute bag with the cupcake inside. As I tried to act natural by the fact that I was just handed a FREE cupcake---I proceeded to order a red velvet for my sister so they don't think that I am a freeloader.

The cupcake was fluffy, decadent and amazing. The frosting was frothy and whipped--with fresh chunks of strawberries. The cutest accent on the cupcake was the single heart candy which nestled in between frosting goodness. I will be coming back to this place til I move to LA in May.

Shop smart

2010-03-24T21:37:00.000-07:00

I went to my "go to" resale shop in Bethesda on Monday. The store is called Mustard Seed (http://www.mustardseedshop.com/). Ive been a loyal customer since 2002. My great find of the day was a brand spanking new Lauren Merkin snakeskin gunmetal metallic clutch. The small dent to my wallet was only $44.45 as opposed to the retail price of $185.00 at Neimans or Saks.

I felt like I won the lottery.

Wine bars

2010-03-14T15:14:00.000-07:00

So two fridays ago....my dear college friend, Kavita and I decided to reunite after all these years. Thanks to me being in the DC area, facebook and technology. We went to two different wine bars that night and had a blast!

Vinoteca
The first wine bar is called Vinoteca and its located on U and 11th street. It was posh out the outside and totally chic on the inside. I love how they recycle the cork from the wine bottles and use it as decor. It gave me inspiration to start saving corks now:)
Vinoteca also has happy hour daily from 5-7pm featuring $5 dolla wines and $5 dolla appetizers.
The staff and the clientele here are super friendly and helpful.

Veritas
The second wine bar is pratically in Dupont Circle. The space is half the size of the first bar, Vinoteca. A more hopping place, Veritas featured mainly chocolate, cheese and wine on their menu. At that point, even though we were unable to find seating--we were happy off the wine fumes. As we were immersed in conversation, a friendly couple on their first date invited us to sit at their table so we didn't have to stand. I was impressed that even despite the crazy busy city.....there are still really nice and genuine people:)
That night we made new friends and had a grand ol' time. Cheers

What else can you use a .....Part 1

2010-03-14T14:36:00.001-07:00

Tennis balls-
1) You can throw them in the dryer to aid the drying process AND to make your clothes/sheets/towels fluffier.
2) Amuse your dog with a game of catch. Its also a great harmless chew slobber toy.
3) Put a few in a square or oblong vase (2 or 3 ft) and stick a few bamboo or mulberry sticks in for room decor

Hairdryer-
1) When you need to remove a sticky sticker from a book, a piece of furniture, plastic or glass. Turn the dryer on the high setting, hold it two inches from the sticker and let the heat go for about 15-20 seconds. Then remove it :) Viola

Free Barf bag on the planes-
1) Use it as your mini trashcan for unwanted paper, food or snacks that they give you on the flights.
2) Because the bag has a waterproof lining for its original purpose, you can temporarily store your greasy sandwich without having mess.
3) If you are traveling with a child under the age of 4, you can store their lollipops, candy or half eaten food in the lil bag.
4) If your eye shadow or blush decides to crumble on you, put all the remnants in the bag to contain the powdery mess so it doesn't destroy the inner lining of your precious expensive handbag.

Traveling in a frame of calm

2010-03-14T12:33:00.000-07:00

I am finally back on the east coast after spending a week in LA....technically it was 2 days in Chicago,two and a half days in LA and the rest in transit.

Traveling can drain anyone when flights are delayed indefinitely(or canceled). Then to top it off, when you are at the airport with airline personnel who are about as clueless as everyone else, people fainting and irritated people traveling with pissed off children---an otherwise normal person can have a meltdown in that scenario.

I almost had one. However, after hearing this girl complaining away on her cell a few feet away from me, I realized that if I continued down the same negative route for that much longer -- I would feel more in the dumps. At that moment I decided to physically and mentally revert my "damsel in distress" mode to lending mindless entertainment to 2 kids who were acting up. The kids and I talked about insignificant things, and the bewildered stressed mom started to lighten up. At the end of the night, while I was on a cab to my friend's place, I no longer felt like the poor passenger who had the worst luck.

Upon looking back at the trip, it was an awesome trip. Here are the highlights:
1) I made friends with so many people on the flight. On my Monday trip to Chicago from Washington, I talked to this nice woman on the entire flight----I was surprised when we landed so soon. It was such a delightful conversation. At the end, she hugged me goodbye and we wished each other well.
2) Since my layover flight was canceled, I was able to stay the night at my friend's place in Chicago and catch up. I was able to experience Chicago on a "nice spring day" and had like a mini vacation.
3) On my flight from Chicago to LA, I talked to both my neighbors on my right and left and had a great conversation with them as well. I was even able to extend my stay in LA for a day at no extra charge.
4) I had a great time exploring the LA neighborhoods with my future roomate Ruth. We found things to laugh at and kept things amusing. We also decided to start a blog (http://relocationla.blogspot.com/)
5) I had my school interview at the Fashion Institute of Design Merchandising in LA and got accepted
6) I had all the time in the world to catch up reading the magazines that were collecting dust.

Even though my natural pessimistic self creeps out first when in a dire situation, it doesn't always have to end up badly. Its for sure not easy to revert negative thinking, but it never hurts to try a tiny tiny bit. You will be suprised at the outcomes and have your own story to tell.

Look charming and dazzling on a budget (Gentlemen)

2010-03-01T16:59:00.000-08:00

Items that you need:
1) one white shirt (v-neck off the shoulder, crewneck --all at your discretion).
2) one blazar (cotton, wool, velvet--at your discretion)
3) a pair of denim
4) loafers
5) Skinny tie
6) Belt

Cheers

Look chic effortlessly and on a budget (Ladies)

2010-03-01T16:46:00.000-08:00

Items that you need:
1) one white shirt (v-neck off the shoulder, crewneck --all at your discretion).
2) one blazar (cotton, wool, velvet--at your discretion)
3) a pair of denim (skinny leg, ciggy leg, straight leg, bootleg)
4) ankle boots or ballet flats
5) Take an existing sterling silver necklace strand without anything on it and thread on 4 different sized washer/bolts.
6) Clutch

Have fun

Arm warmers and leg warmers and cowl neck warmers

2010-03-01T16:09:00.000-08:00

Today is the first day of March. Woohoo--yet it is still cold. The cold weather isn't new for me given that I have spent the last 6 years in Chicago (9 months of winter and 3 months of summer). So even though the winter months aren't as harsh in the Washington D.C area, there are still some chilly "Spring" days and "Fall days" minus the summer months.

When I see people gazing longingly at the preconceived notion of winter items and reason that its not practical for the Spring, I want to go up to them with my blog. You can still wear the arm warmers, leg warmers and cowl neck scarfs up til end of April. Granted, you would have to put them away for 4 and half months---but these items have a longer "social" life than you think.

For soft, animal friendly warm knits, check out http://www.denadadesign.com/. You can also visit Redeem boutique on 14th and S to try on and buy these fabulous knits.

The bar method mixed with a splash of pilates and a sprinkle of yoga

2010-02-26T21:30:00.000-08:00

I was introduced to the "core fusion" class back in 2008 at the Exhale Spa (http://www.exhalespa.com/) and it totally kicked my butt. I found it painful to laugh, twist, sit and walk down stairs....for a week. Eventually the pain became somewhat addicting I started to crave that burn. You get a total body workout.

The class usually starts you off doing "Jane Fondalike" leg lifts, then you get down and do 20 pushups and then hold for a 60 second plank. You work with 2lb weights , a ball and the bar to lengthen and strengthen throughout class. The one thing that they do in class for abs that is slightly different than normal is the "C" curve. You are taught to flatten your abdomen against your spine and to maintain the curve while you work on stability.

The end result; Great energy, great definition in your legs, buttocks, abs and arms.

If you don't live in the IL, NY or LA area, you can always purchase the DVD and practice along with it in the comfort of your home.

Try yoga out before you pass if off as sleepytime

2010-02-26T21:01:00.000-08:00

A lot of times people have the perception that yoga is boring and an excuse for naptime. Well, there is truth in that, however not all yoga is "slowmoving and dull."

In the past month, I found three yoga studios that leaves you dripping in sweat, breathing like a dog and shaking in determination. The good news is that you get to try it out for a minimal financial commitment.

1) http://www.downdogyoga.com/ They give you a free unlimited week trial
2) http://www.hotyogausa.com/ You pay ten bucks for one week unlimited.
3) http://www.bikramyogarockville.com/ You pay 20 bucks for one week unlimited.

If you want completely free yoga and would like to try out different types of yoga, check out the Lululemon at your closest location. They usually have free community class Saturday or Sunday.

Namaste. Let the inner light in you bring you an open mind.

What else can you use Olive Oil for....

2010-02-25T21:15:00.000-08:00

Other uses:
1) Remove a ring from your finger if you do not have butter on hand.
2) Remove lipstains, long-lasting lip stick (the ones from L'oreal, CG, Nars and Chanel)
3) Remove water proof mascara
4) Soften your cuticles

Treat your skin the natural economical way.

Tribute to my godsisters' grandmother-Lee Ma Ma

2010-02-24T19:45:00.000-08:00

The last time that I had the opportunity to just hang out with my godsisters' grandma was December 28 2009. That day was cold for the MD/DC area so we all decided to make rice krispies at my house. I was in my unfocused mood drifting from talking online to snacking and attempting to make the treats.
When I finally came downstairs, Lee Ma Ma was already mixing the ingredients in the pot. I smiled sheeplishly at her and thanked her because I knew I was totally procrastinating. At the same time, I was so touched that even the smallest detail wasn't overlooked by her. In my entire life of knowing my godsisters and the family, Lee Ma Ma has always been warm and loving. She always remembered my chinese name and said it with such tenderness, it was
never harsh.
In rememberance of Lee Ma Ma- I know she is in a better place and she has touched everyones life in such a special way. She has been such a great example of unconditional love and we all love her dearly.

Clean out your fridge on a regular basis-- is also a good practice for your wardrobe

2010-02-23T18:01:00.000-08:00

I have been living harmoniously with my parents in the house for the past 5 weeks.......Okay well for those who know me better know that I am saying this with a bite of sarcasm while I am downing H20 wishing it was vodka instead. To be fair, it has been transition for both sides and is manageable for now.
Every two weeks--armed with a garbage bag, I would face the kitchen fridge. I usually fill the garbage bag. This past Sunday, I got a genius idea (well maybe I was inspired by a friend of a friend) and decided to try it. I used small empty boxes and wrapped it in plastic grocery bags and stuffed it in the back of the fridge. This way, my mom would think that we still have a lot of food and cease to buy more food. Well yesterday, my mother found the "fake props" and wasn't exactly pleased with the empty boxes taking up so much space. I was cursing silently at myself that my plan failed to work.
Like our fridge, our closets are full of expired goods that take up a lot of space. It is unnecessary clutter--and sometimes good things get lost in the jumble causing you to spend more money because you cannot find anything. So start by doing a small inventory check of your closet on a quarterly basis. When you know what you have and need, you can save yourself money and have a productive shopping trip.

From trash to treasure for others----From Goodwill to profit for me

2010-02-23T17:03:00.000-08:00

Today, I decided to venture into the Goodwill store in Gaithersburg MD. I went into the store and was greeted by the smell of "old stuff"--but without judgement, I ventured further into the store. I went straight for the belt rack and flipped through some acceptable looking belts, as I flipped deeper into the racks, I started coming across some designer brands (Ellen Tracy, Anne Klein, Dior, Jones New York and St johns to name a few). Even though these belts are the older version/vintage belt --nevertheless they were in great shape, genuine leather versus the manmade materials that they sell at stores and still ask us to pay $30 dollars.
I settled on a clementine orange Jones New York belt and a cherry red Christian Dior belt. My grand total $4.07. Not bad at all.

The sweeter things in life

2010-02-22T11:03:00.000-08:00

My cousin/niece was visiting from the west coast. She started her awesome cookie business a few years ago. Recently, I had the honor to eat her delectable treats firsthand because I was also staying temporarily in the MD area.

I had one sneak bite while I was driving home and without thinking....I stuffed the entire cookie in my mouth. As I was chewing---I promised myself to be more in control and savor the treat in the future so I could enjoy it longer. Needless to say....its only been barely three days and I hid the last two treats in the fridge near the back so nobody would be able to get their hands on it (unless they read my blog and get to the fridge before tonite).

These irresistable treats can be ordered online and perfect for ALL occasions. http://www.thecookiechew.com/

Practical beauty regimen

2010-02-22T10:56:00.000-08:00

Life annoyance: Having your makeup brush scattered around or accidentally knocking it into the trashcan/toilet bowl.
Solution: Grab a clear glass tumbler. Fill it halfway with rice and stick your brushes/beauty gadgets in. It is aesthetically appealing and saves counter space.

Life annoyance: Expensive greasy eye makeup remover....or just pure laziness.
Solution: Buy pamper wipes(yes you read it right). Its cheap, smells nice and removes mascara/makeup very well. Also great for dusting and using it for its original purpose.

Practical and almost Free home remedies

2010-02-22T10:42:00.000-08:00

Wretched economy...check.
Upsy turvy health reform policies.....check
Financial strains and stress.......check
Practical home remedies to aid us physically....priceless

Ailment: Indigestion, sour stomach caused by stress or food.
Natural solution: Mince up raw ginger with a teaspoon of honey and boil with water. Drink it when its still on the warm hot side....not when its scalding hot.

Ailment: stomach cramps, muscle aches or feeling cold because the house is heated to temperature of 62 degrees in the winter.
Natural solution: grab a clean pair of tube sock and fill it with either chinese red beans or black beans. Tie the ends of the sock and heat it in the microwave for 3.5 minutes. The beans retain heat for about 30 minutes and it smells nice and comforting.
*My friend Ann told me about this neat sock trick. I love it.

U Street and 14th is the new boutique heaven

2010-02-21T17:11:00.000-08:00

I temporarily moved back (or technically...making a pitstop before heading to LA)to the Washington DC area and discovered my artsy fartsy Chicago Bucktown/Wickerpark neighborhood replacement. I had no idea that U street and 14th was so up and coming. Its awesome-Great food, pleasant genuine folks, awesome boutiques and generally a great place to hang out. My top recommendations for unique clothes with a bit of stylish flair and funk; Redeem(http://www.redeemus.com/) and Rue 14(http://www.rue14.com/) boutique right off 14th and S. In between shopping you gotta grab a bite to eat to....walk around and shop some more---hence why I am not a financial advisor. There is a little wine market with delectable yummy quick bites to eat (http://www.corkdc.com/).

The sweetest measuring gadgets of 2010 thus far

2010-02-21T16:44:00.000-08:00

My sister has a friend who is embarking on an exciting trip to culinary school. I admire this friend going out there to pursue her passion. So anyways--my sister asked me whether or not Anthropologie had something that would be relevant for her friend. I gave her an indignant look and went straight to my computer. Within a span of 2 minutes, I found the cutest and practical measuring set. Its called "Plucked Petals Measuring Spoons" and it retails for $24 bucks (http://www.anthropologie.com) Not bad at all!

Avaunt Gaudy Photo Shoot Spring/Summer 2009

2010-02-20T11:06:00.001-08:00

Level Up: Where Underground Is Mainstream

2010-02-20T10:58:00.001-08:00

Jan 17th Photo Shoot: High Fashion Editorial for portfolio

2010-02-20T10:15:00.000-08:00