Friday, February 26, 2010

Runway ready....


Now if there is one thing I love to do in New York City it's to shop. While I always hit the Madison Avenue-5th Avenue stores (if not just to see the windows of all the major department stores--absolutely Beautiful), I also love exploring different neighborhoods and finding the hidden gems; this time in the SoHo area. I pick all places I shop based on the window displays. Now maybe it's just the inner merchandiser in me, but I think a stores window should be a snapshot as to what is inside. When I came across the windows of Runway, I had to check it out. There was so much going on, yet it all made complete sense..kind of an organized chaos with a European sophistication. Inside had the same feel, everyone was so kind and helpful and I'm pretty sure I saw a dog and atleast 2 cats--the owners pets :) I walked away with fantastic ruffled trench coat in tan (pictured in yellow above). If you ever find yourself in SoHo this store is a Must go to. And make sure to ask for JC, Runway's in-house Stylist.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

New York, New York


Every February, my mom and I take a trip to New York. And everytime is better than the last..this year being no exception. This is the time when I get to wear my vintage Persian Lamb coat, Talbots leather gloves (yes, Talbots - they have the best accessories) and favorite JCrew boots - my personal "must haves" for a trip to New York during the cold weather. Although I had to pack a little more than expected as things were a bit different this trip. While I was in New York enjoying FashionWeek with my mom and spending time catching up with family, I was also working during the week. Quite the balancing act...and loved every minute. We stayed at the always lovely Waldof Towers in an apartment on the 38th floor, which included the only terrace in the hotel...outstanding views!! I spent a memorable day under the tents at Bryant Park with my mom and saw the most amazing shows..Luca Luca, Herve Leger, Diane Von Furstenberg and Custo Barcelona. Talk about an incredible day...so much creative energy around me. I walked out from under those tents inspired.

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Doing good.....


The other night I attended an event called Network for a Cure. Typically, this is not my sort of thing, but I figured Why not? What do I have to lose..? So, for a $20 entry fee (actually a donation as 100% of this going to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society...ummm, AMAZING!), I discovered Barrel House, a cool invite-only venue hidden in SoMa and ate tasty appetizers from Above & Beyond Catering and sipped on wine from Michel-Schlumberger (all of which were donated and delicious!). I had a great time meeting new people and catching up with friends.. and even did a little dancing to the music spun by the Santa Cruz DJ Company. All in all - a pretty fantastic night and am happy with myself for trying something new. You really don't know what you are missing out on unless you try new things and have new adventures and take chances..something I intend to continue doing.

All smiles over here :)

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Sweet retreat....


I was out with some girlfriends last Friday night trying to find something fun to do. We went out and hit some of our favorite spots in San Francisco, but just couldn't find anything to keep our attention. We needed to escape the city for a fun adventure, but where......? We decided to go wine tasting in Sonoma. What could be more perfect? A fun roadtrip with some of my best friends. Our first stop in Healdsburg was the Wilson Winery. This winery only offers reds wines. I'm a white wine kinda gal and did not partake in the tasting, but it did have the opportunity to learn more about red wine (which was hardly anything to begin with!). I loved how down to earth and comfortable this family-oriented tasting room felt. Definitely a great first stop to warm you up for wine tasting. Next we headed to the fabulous Michel-Schlumberger winery. Talk about a lovely and classy place! My friends and I enjoyed our glasses of wine by a fire on soft, comfy couches. Of course it being only January, there are primarily red wines available for tastings in the Healdsburg area. I was lucky enough to enjoy their 2007 La Brume Chardonnay. By now it was time to liven things up. It had been highly recommended that we head to a place called the Dry Creek General Store. Now this place reminded me of a dive I used to spend time at in college and loved it! The people were super REAL and so friendly and best of all..they were in the middle of playing a game of wii Bowling (my absolute fave!). I knew I had to get in at least one game in. The game was great, everyone had a fun time AND I beat everyone. They had no idea what they were getting themselves into :) Famished, it was time for dinner at Willie's Seafood. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone. We sat outdoors (with heated lamps of course) and ate the best food. I cannot wait for my next trip back..YUM! The reality of it is this whole trip was about me taking care of me. I needed a to get away from the city to escape to somewhere peaceful and Healdsburg was just that. Sometimes you have to take some time for yourself gain some clarity and really understand what is important in life...plus it never hurts to spend a day pampering yourself in great company.