Fabulous Finds Gal

My Spread in Romantic Homes Magazine

2011-11-14T11:10:00.000-08:00

My Mother, Shirley, and I were blessed to be featured in the

Romantic Homes Mother's Day issue in 2009 as

'"Mother - Daughter Decorating Styles".

It was such a treat because we both had our homes in the magazine

at the same time and we got the perfect opportunity to dedicate

it to my dear and precious

Grandmother, Nadine, that is in heaven.

She would have been tickled pink to know

her girls that were mostly self-taught like herself

got recognized for the talents she passed down to us.

You see, my Grandmother had six children and was married to a minister.

She made their clothing and cooked all their food. She didn't have any extra money.

So, when she did later in life she began to acquire the finer things in life she could afford. Waterford, silver, crystal, china, glassware became her passion. And, many of these things are displayed in my home as homage to her and reminds me of patience.

My Mother still to this day can create the most magical tablescapes. I am still in awe of her talent. She still shows up on holidays at my home with the perfect topper for my table. She has it and has a way of making everything magical.

I was blessed to have Janet Solomon of the blog Frenchblue as the author of my article. I couldn't have been mesmerized any more from the way she spins the written word.

So, I thought today would be the perfect day to share this special part of my life with you.

Dream big. Create a life full of magic. Leave a legacy.

What are your thoughts?

xo,

Christina

Calm

2011-07-13T10:10:00.000-07:00

Calm... the definition is not showing or feeling nervousness, anger or any emotions.

I don't know about you, but a room like this does bring up the feeling of sighing in relief. Kicking off my shoes and wanting to get cozy for a while.

What does calm mean to you?

How do you achieve calmness?

xo,

Christina

Old School Glamour

2011-07-08T21:48:00.000-07:00

My friends, I have been through a lot. A lot of growth.

A lot of challenges. A lot of amazing opportunities.

Even more amazing new people in my life.

So, I come back stronger, smarter and

full of more life more than ever before.

I have a new sense of purpose.

Of direction. Of knowing what path to take.

Time to rejoice, enjoy friends and family.

And take time to enjoy the little things.

No time to look back.

Looking forward to the future a whole lot wiser.

It's time to be the best woman I can be.

To embrace my inner woman.

So, please continue to be my friend.

As, I know I have been gone and I miss you all.

So, hats off to us!

And, cheers!

We are here, alive and still creating.

Anyone relating to this or been through it?

Or, have any advice how to handle major life changes?

Please share.

Much love,

Christina

Get Your FREE Professional WordPress Blog Site and Blog Starter Kit By May 31st!!!

2011-05-24T12:23:00.000-07:00

What would you think if I told you I could get you a
free CUSTOMIZED wordpress blog in less than 10
minutes?

http://freeblogfactory.net

If you're like most of us, you probably find that
hard to believe...

After all, most of us spend hundreds or even THOUSANDS
of dollars just to get our blogs designed...

...and they usually don't end up coming out as
nice as you deserve!

Thankfully, my friends just put together a really
cool program that will build you a customized
Wordpress blog absolutely FREE of charge...

..and after we talked about it for a while they
told me I could share it with you, too!

And, the crazy cool special running until the end

of the month (May 31st) is a FREE blog starter kit that normally

runs $197. That should hook you up with all the training you

need to maximize your blog site.

I just HAD to share this with you, my friends!!!!

Here it is:
http://freeblogfactory.net

xo,
Christina Gough
323.834.9144

P.S. When we spoke they amazingly told me that
they'd actually PAY ME over $50 just to give
you this free blog...

...which (in my book) is pretty darn cool
(don't you think?)

Go snag yourself one of these babies, and check
out their affiliate program while it lasts:
http://freeblogfactory.net

The Most Relevant Tech from Independent Fashion Bloggers

2011-05-24T12:18:00.000-07:00

The Most Relevant Tech

Edited by Vyque of Fasshonaburu

If you’re a fashion blogger, or even just an avid reader of fashion blogs, you’re probably already on the technology savvy side. But, while you may be more tech-telligent than the average person, it’s important to never get complacent! You constantly read style and fashion blogs for inspiration and news, but how much time do you devote to the latest new and innovations in technology?

It may be near impossible to stay on the very top of two separate industries, (three if your full-time job is unrelated!!!), but IFB is here to help! Always the most relevant information for the fashion, hopefully ChicGeek will not only keep you up-to-date on technology, but help you constantly improve your blog.

LINKS À LA MODE: TECH – MAY 24TH

Divas & Dorks: iPhone/iPad: Your Worst Enemy?

Fasshonaburu: The Future is Now - Finally a Wearable Light-Up Dress

IFB: Which Blogging Platform is Right for You

Mimosas in Bed: Style & The City: France's First Street Style Blog Gets Their Own iPhone/iPad App

Miss Viki: The Rise of the Bloggers

Styling You: 10 tips for PRs Wanting to Work with Bloggers

xo,

Christina

Found at Independent Fashion Bloggers.

Easter and Hats, Go Hand In Hand...

2011-04-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

I can wear a hat or take it off,
but either way it's a conversation piece.
Hedda Hopper

Cock your hat - angles are attitudes.

Frank Sinatra

I have a hat. It is graceful and feminine and give me a certain dignity, as if I were attending a state funeral or something. Someday I may get up enough courage to wear it, instead of carrying it.

Erma Bombeck

A woman's place in public is to sit beside her husband, be silent, and be sure her hat is on straight.

Bess Truman

Wow, what do you link of that?

Do you have the courage to wear hats and/or

speak in public next to your husband

while wearing a hat?

He can still wear the pants. Ha... ha...

Thank goodness times have changed.

xo,

Christina

8 Simple Tips in Social Media Suicide Prevention by Bradley Will of The Free Blog Factory

2011-04-17T08:17:00.000-07:00

How's your social media

presence stacking up?

Here are the 8 simple tips in

social media suicide prevention.

http://www.viddler.com/explore/bradleywill/videos/1/

(Click on link to view video)

Who is Bradley Will?

Well, he is a man that is up to many things.

Primarily, he is the CEO of the Free Blog Factory where he gives away FREE customizable WordPress websites/blogs with all the bells and whistles. If you are interested in making some additional money and helping your readers receive a free website, I will be posting about a contest Tuesday where you can earn an Apple Ipad 2!

Bradley is also is an advisor to entrepreneurs and small business owners in establishing their business vision and developing social marketing strategies. http://bradleywill.com. He is the author of Unstrapp'd blog that specializes in how gen-y does business. On his blog he has interviewed wine guru and author, Guy Vaynerchuck of "Crush It",

Michael Gerber of "The E-Myth" and Bob Burg of "Go-Givers".

Bradley was featured in Bob Burg's outstanding book "Go-Givers Sell More".

To keep up with ever changing social media world, follow Bradley via twitter.

Have you made any of these mistakes

in the past or present?

What's the most important rule to you?

xo,

Christina

Video found on Viddler

Fashion Bloggers & Social Media: The Perfect Match

2011-04-09T16:53:00.000-07:00

Fashion Bloggers & Social Media: The Perfect Match

Edited by Joanne Faith

Fashion bloggers are natural social media experts. Beyond our blogs, you’ll find us on Facebook and Twitter, some are on YouTube, as well as a plethora of other connected communities (IFB!). I am confident enough in our abilities to say that we know how to use social media (effectively) better than most, and I probably don’t need to tell you what a wonderful skill that is to have right now! Naturally, a few of things weeks links related to issues around social media and I expect the topic to crop up only more often in the future.

I am excited to be apart of the first round of editors for Links A La Mode: Tech, and absolutely thrilled to encourage the sharing of these skills amongst other fashion bloggers. We are definitely not a brainless bunch, and features like Links A La Mode: Tech only prove that even further!

LINKS À LA MODE: TECH – April 5th

Beautifully Invisible: Social Media Dashboard – Why You Should Be Using One

Fuyume: A Guide To Adding a Favicon To Your Blog

IFB: Why Fashion Bloggers should Love Instagram

Joanne Faith: The 5 Essential Skills Of Fashion Blogging

Miss Viki: We Are Not Alone! Counting The Number Of Active, Non-Spam Fashion Blogs

Relatively Chic: How to Deal With Internet Scum, Part 2: Spam

Style by Santina: Five Reasons To Replace Blogger’s Built-in Comment System With Disqus

Styling You: How Do You Balance Your Blogging Time?

Trend Alert Daily: Should Fashion Bloggers Protect Their Tweets?

xo,

Christina

Found at Independent Fashion Bloggers

Your life can be abundant with or without material wealth

2011-04-03T16:43:00.000-07:00

Words of wisdom from "Guerrilla Marketing Goes Green" by Jay Conrad Levinson and Shel Horowitz:

"Your live can be abundant and full of blessings, with or without material wealth.

Abundance is fundamentally different from prosperity. Prosperity still works on the idea the you have to conquer others, that you have to strive for more money, and that pie is infinite and that helping others is one way to help yourself- the more you help, the more the whole pie expands.

It also says that you have to act and believe in the whole process. If you think and act from a scarcity model , you will find scarcity. If the energy you put into the universe comes from the mindset that you can easily get what you need and more, that's what you're likely to find."

I know you may have read this before, but I really wanted to share with you.

Does this ring true for you? Has helping others and coming from a place of abundance made an impact on the outcome of your life? If so, please share.

Thanks for stopping by, dear friend.

xo,
Christina

The Fresh Air Fund is in need of loving host families for the summer of 2011

2011-03-22T18:40:00.000-07:00

The Fresh Air Fund is in need of loving host families for the summer of 2011

The Summer of 2011 is approaching fast!

The Fresh Air Fund is in need of loving host families.
We are looking for families in the following areas to host THIS summer:

If you or someone you know is able to host, please sign up now. In 2010, The Fresh Air Fund's Volunteer Host Family program, called Friendly Town, gave close to 5,000 New York City boys and girls, ages six to 18, free summer experiences in the country and the suburbs. Volunteer host families shared their friendship and homes up to two weeks or more in 13 Northeastern states from Virginia to Maine and Canada.

Thanks to host families who open up their homes for a few weeks each summer, children growing up in New York City’s toughest neighborhoods have experienced the joys of Fresh Air experiences.

More than 65% of all children are reinvited to stay with their host family, year after year.

Fresh Air Fund Host Families:

"It is rewarding to see the smile on our Fresh Air child's face as she enjoys the simple things we take for granted..."

Friendly Town host families are volunteers who live in the suburbs or small town communities. Host families range in size, ethnicity and background, but share the desire to open their hearts and homes to give city children an experience they will never forget. Hosts say the Fresh Air experience is as enriching for their own families, as it is for the inner-city children. There are no financial requirements for hosting a child. Volunteers may request the age-group and gender of the Fresh Air youngster they would like to host. Stories about real Fresh Air host families and their New York City visitors are just a click away!

Click here to learn more about becoming a host or call (800) 367-0003!
Fresh Air Children

"We made s'mores and hot dogs over the fire. I've never cooked outside before!"

Fresh Air children are boys and girls, six to 18 years old, who live in New York City. Children on first-time visits are six to 12 years old and stay for either one or two weeks. Youngsters who are re-invited by the same family may continue with The Fund through age 18, and many enjoy longer summertime visits, year after year. A visit to the home of a warm and loving volunteer host family can make all the difference in the world to an inner-city child. All it takes to create lifelong memories is laughing in the sunshine and making new friends.

The majority of Fresh Air children are from low-income communities. These are often families without the resources to send their children on summer vacations. Most inner-city youngsters grow up in towering apartment buildings without large, open, outdoor play spaces. Concrete playgrounds cannot replace the freedom of running barefoot through the grass or riding bikes down country lanes.

Fresh Air children are registered by more than 90 participating social service and community organizations located in disadvantaged neighborhoods in the five boroughs of New York City. These community-based agencies are in close contact with children in need of summer experiences in rural and suburban areas. Each agency is responsible for registering children for the program.

What do Fresh Air children enjoy?

Playing in the backyard
Laughing in the sunshine
Catching fireflies
Riding bicycles
Learning to swim
Running barefoot through the grass
Gazing at the stars on moonlit nights
Building sandcastles
Making new friends
Simple pleasures of life away from the inner-city

The Fresh Air Fund at the Five Boro Bike Tour:

Join The Fresh Air Fund at the Five Boro Bike Tour on May 1st! The largest recreational cycling event in America, the TD Bank Five Boro Bike Tour, leads bikers on a 42-mile fun course through the city and you can be a part of it! The Fund provides guaranteed entry into the event in exchange for a fundraising minimum. What better way to bike through an amazing route while knowing that the money you raise will help children from low-income communities who live throughout the city. Along the way, bikers will enjoy entertainment, rider photos, bike repair, medical support and the company of thousands of well-wishers! Click here for more information about the race! If you have questions or are interested in participating, please call Kate Brinkerhoff at (212) 897-8890 or email kbrinkerhoff@freshair.org.

Learn how two weeks can transform a child's life forever and you can make a huge difference in a child's life. What on earth could be better than that?

xo,

Christina

The Secret

2011-03-15T18:54:00.000-07:00

As reading the book "The Secret" by Rhonda Byrne a few paragraphs seem to jump off the page at me. So, I thought you may find it meaningful.

"Everything we want, whatever it may be, is motivated by love. It is to experience the feelings of love in having those things-youth, money, the perfect person, job, body, or health. To attract the things we love we must transmit love, and those things will appear immediately.

The Catch is, to transmit the highest frequency of love, you must love yourself, and that can be difficult for many. If you focus on the outside and what you see now, you may trip yourself up, because what you see and feel about you now is the result of what you used to think. If you don't love you, the person you see now is likely to be full of faults that you have found in yourself.

To love yourself fully, you must focus on the presence inside of You. Take a moment and sit still. Focus on feeling the life presence inside you. As you focus on the presence within, it will begin to reveal itself to You. That presence is the perfection of You. That presence is the real You. As you focus on that presence, as you feel, love and praise that presence, you will love yourself fully, quite possibly for the first time in your life.

Any time you look at yourself with critical eyes, switch your focus immediately to the presence within, and its perfection will reveal itself to You. As you do this, all imperfections cannot exist in the light of this presence. Whether you want to regain perfect eyesight, dissolve disease and restore well-being, turn poverty into abundance, reverse aging and degeneration, or eradicate any negativity, focus on and love the presence within you and perfection will manifest."

I truly hope you find some value here.

Do you have any other books

you would recommend?

xo,

Christina

Graphic from Wilson Graphic Designs

Antiques and Uniques has something for everyone in San Clemente, California

2011-03-05T10:03:00.000-08:00

I am exicted to share a new Antique store that opened up this week in downtown San Clemente, California. It is right on the main street Avenida Del Mar that leads to the peir. The store is right across the street from the exquisite Stanford Court Antiques store. It is minutes off the 5 freeway off the Presidio or Palizada exits, off of El Camino Real and onto Del Mar. Donna and Steve are the owners and creaters of this fabulous store. They are excited some of our dealers have had some awesome sales in the first few days of business. They have such a great variety of items & dealers. From fine porcelains, to vintage clothing, purses, shoes & jewelry...not to mention the mid century and vintage vinyls. Great selection of collectibles, pottery, toys and more!

Glitz and Glam

Vintage, retro and newer clothing, accessories and such

from my booth called Christina's Closet.

It's been a great and busy week creating this closet

and putting my touches to the space.

The upbeat and fun owners and dealers make being in this store a delight.

FABULOUS FURS

EQUISITE JEWELRY

SHABBY CHIC

MID CENTURY
A LITTLE BIT OF THIS AND A LITTLE BIT OF THAT!

Come visit us today!!
103 Avenida Del Mar
San Clemente, CA 92672

949-429-6777

If you can't make it to San Clemente,

check out their blog!

xo,

Christina

Peace

2011-02-18T08:42:00.000-08:00

Thanks to FrenchBlue for sharing

this over at her fabulous place.

Happy Friday, dear friends!

I'm off to get paid to decorate.

Is this a joke? Doing what I truly love

and getting paid for it.

Awe... life is good.

May you find peace today

and get to use your creativity in

whatever brings you bliss!

xo,

Christina

"Be Mine" Belle Inspiration Magazine January 2011

2011-01-07T15:16:00.000-08:00

The "Be Mine" Belle Inspiration Sneak Preview Video

Is Full Of Romantic Eye Candy. The E-Magazine Arrives January 15th.

My Article "Age Is Just A Number" Covers Current Fashion Trends

And Dressing Age Appropriately. Subscribe Here.

xo,

Christina

Let's Ring In 2011

2011-01-01T17:09:00.000-08:00

Let's Ring in 2011 in style.

It's been a tough year for most,

but surprisingly still full of many things to be thankful for.

It's clearly not all about the balance in our checkbooks.

What is important is we dance anyway.

No matter our circumstances and where we find ourselves.

That's my new years resolution for all of us.

Let's just dance...

xo,

Christina

Winter Inspiration From Anthropologie

2010-12-06T09:51:00.000-08:00

Anthropologie is a must see store for me each holiday season.

I can't wait to see their creative and extravagant holiday decor that brings the holiday season alive.

Last Christmas all I wanted from Santa was a

sweater for this great store.

Thank you Santa for listening.

I still love that cozy sweater.

Whenever in doubt of what to buy a special gal

for Christmas,

this is the place to find it.

They have the most amazing hand knit scarves, sweaters, hats and gloves that have been my cherished favorites.

And, their home goods are so funky , fresh and rustic.

Oh, did I mention the killer boots they have?

Visiting this store is like going on an adventure.

Oh, I need some inspiration. I will be there very, very soon... I am taking photos today for my next fashion feature in Belle Inspiration magazine. And, Belle Inspiration is having a holiday giveaway you won't want to miss and their holiday edition is out! Good luck to us today.

Do you have a favorite store or place you love to visit during the holidays for inspiration or gifts? Please share.

Happy Holidays,

Christina

All photos found on Anthropologie's Facebook page.

It Gets Better~Links A' La Mode Top Fashion Posts Of The Week

2010-12-05T09:59:00.000-08:00

It Gets Better

Edited by: The Sunday Best

As we head full on into the "holiday" season, with its unbridled consumerism, endless head-whacking charity pleas, and weird tie-ins, I expected the links list to be inundated with shopping guides. Instead, many dealt with what can only be considered harassment or, terribly, abuse; several looked at blogging as a cathartic experience, others as a rallying cry. I was lucky enough to be raised in an openly affectionate household with two strong female presences in my mother and sister, and this has undoubtedly affected my manner and attitudes as a married man. Since I can't go around changing men and society, no matter how cool that superpower would be, I offer this reminder, in what I believe is the spirit of the season (when that spirit is allowed to express itself unfettered): respect is the bare minimum we owe each other, and the bare minimum we should expect from others. Respect is not necessarily agreement, but it is always acknowledgment. For those who are struggling this season--financially, emotionally, physically--I can only echo the words of Tim Gunn, George Takei, and others when I say, "It gets better." Happy Holidays.

Links à la Mode: December 2

Analogue Chic 1 step forward, ten steps back: Skinnygirl by Bethenny Frankel

Be Fabulous Daily Women at work: An immodest proposal

Crimson Rosella My safe haven

Finding Tokyo Why Paris is no longer the fashion capital of the world

Independent Fashion Bloggers: The Comment Challenge

Melina Bee How to host your own clothing swap in five easy steps

Mrs Bossa Friend Friday Guest Post: Size Matters

My Heart Blogged Losing 40 lbs., and what I've learned

Oranges and Apples An ethics code for bloggers

Piewacket Hot off the press

Statements in Fashion My Alex, My Dragonfly

Style Eyes A fashion bloggers mini guide to psychology

The Button Owl Control freak

The Chic Curve From the author: "Fat Bitch"

The Coveted Nicole de Carle: Subversive Architectural Lingerie

The Demoiselles Can't stand the hate: Cutting Bridalplasty down to size

The Elegant Bohemian The sisterhood

The Laugh Slut Giving thanks

The Sunday Best Give him scotch

Vogue Vintage The future of fashion blogging

Wearabout Streets on the runway

The New Patchwork Chanel Bag.

2010-12-01T06:55:00.000-08:00

Here it is, the new Chanel bag

for Spring/Summer.

Just in time for your Christmas list.

Like or not so much?

I likie.

Happy Holidays,

Christina

The Captains Helm Creates A Unique Shopping Experience While Mixing Vintage Finds And Skate/Surf/Motor

2010-11-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

The Captains Helm in Oceanside and Costa Mesa are one of the best stores for creative inspiration, gifts and unique finds. The Captains Helm carries the best new and vintage finds around Orange and San Diego county. Our visit starts off with your favorite coffee drink in hand from a friendly local and talk of the waves of the day.

As you enter, if feels like you are in a lounge that is like no other. One side of the store caters to men
and the other equally as important, women.
If you need a cool t-shirt for any man in your life,
this is definitely the place to go.

They are a buy, sell and trade type of place.
So, it is always fresh each time you visit.
The perfect place for a fab find.

They also carry surf, motorcycle and

skate favorites for all.

Up-to-date jewelry to complete your look and surf mags to keep you in the know.

Their love for vintage is obvious.

A store decorated like no other.

Classic biker leather jackets, denim and

flannels are in abundance.

Classic denim and flannel for the gals as well.

All are hand picked by their talented buyers

to only carry the best pieces available.

One of a kind boots for men and women.

Surf's up. Grab a board.

A true collector's delight of classic rock albums.
It's hard to leave this store empty handed.

Every square inch is designed to perfection.

Even the changing rooms are a work of art.

It's a feast for the eyes.

And, they even have a few chairs

to sit back, grab a mag and take a load off.

Not in just any chair. I love this baby!

If you are ever in Oceanside or Costa Mesa

be sure to visit the Captains Helm. Check out their inspirational and hip blog called 3rd Floor Musings. Or, you can pick up the hottest items featured in their online store.

Do you frequent any local shops like this

where you live? If so, please share!

Happy Holidays,

Christina

All photos taken by Christina Gough in the Oceanside Captain's Helm store.

Giving Thanks from The Independent Fashion Bloggers Links A' La Mode Top Fashion Posts Of The Week

2010-11-27T17:00:00.000-08:00

Giving Thanks

Edited by: Holier than Now

It's Thanksgiving here in the U.S. and many of us are looking forward to the Black Friday sales - oh wait, I mean spending time with our families and friends! But it's wonderful (and kind of weird) that so many of the people that influence and support us on a daily basis won't be gathered around our table; they'll be hanging around our web address, retweeting our (sometimes) witty comments, liking our latest post on Facebook, etc. Whether or not you celebrate turkey day, as a blogger it's hard not to be full of gratitude for the resources we share on a regular basis. This week, Tickle Me Chic helps ban the blogging blues, Previously Owned does your holiday gift shopping for you, and Make the World a Prettier Place sums up the reason so many of us are grateful just to be alive (hello? fashion!) with a visual history.

Links à la Mode: November 25th

Be Fabulous Daily Applying old-school academic standards of original content and citation of sources to fashion blogging

Boheme Noir Best outfits 2010 of style icon Giovanna Battaglia

Fashion Butter: How to DIY Fur Collar with Chains

Fish Monkey's Writing Stuff Lanvin + H&M: Is there a downside?

Frock and Roll A code of ethnics for advertorials on your blog

Grit and Glamour RSS and Sharing for Dummies—and Lazies

Haute Halifax Out of sight, out of mind? A look at the impact of the textile industry in Africa

Holier than Now The Under $50 Gift Guide: Fashion, guy-friendly goods, eco and charitable finds and more

Independent Fashion Bloggers: Are you addicted to blogging?

Make the World a Prettier Place 30 Vogue covers from 1922 to 2005

Mary Van Notes A vintage style post from a tree house

Pancake Stacker Lessons from "Changing Fashion: Internet and Blogging" featuring Liz of Late Afternoon, Yvan Rodic of The Face Hunter, and more

Positively Bleak Tips on staving off the winter blues - with a bonus compilation of free demos and EPs from alternative rock bands!

Previously Owned A carefully selected gift list for the foodie, fashionable, beauty obsessed and generous

The Chic Curve Winter coats for everyBODY. No matter what size or shape, there is a fabulous jacket just for you!

The Coveted: Frock Luxury Vintage: A local NYC discovery

The Fashion Pawn The Business of Blogging: Your Blog Brand

The Lingerie Addict: 5 things Every Woman Should Know About Her Lingerie

The New Professional A bloglover's tips for keeping up with your blog reading

Tickle Me Chic: Get rid of those blogging blues: Tips and links to ban discouragement

Wanderlost 10 things to look forward to this winter

SPONSOR:

Shopbop bags: Burch, Matt & Natt, Minkoff, IRO, Botkier, Gryson, LAMB, Chloe, BE&D, DVF

Victoria Beckham Is Not Just A Pretty Face, She Can Design

2010-11-23T06:33:00.000-08:00

Most of us just know Victoria Beckham as "Posh" from the Spice Girls and more recently the lucky gal married to hunk soccer player David Beckham. She is also a mother of three. But, she has more up her sleeve.

She has been designing sleeves.

Beautiful sleeves and clothes for women and

this is her fifth Spring/Summer Collection.

I find it chic and a bit timeless.

Dresses that could be worn to the office,

lunch with the ladies or a dinner date.
Now, that's a dress working overtime!

I am loving the tailoring and simplicity.
A modern twist to a regular sheath and
some with a fun colorful punch.

This would be my pick for a Spring/Summer
work to date dress. This dress would look great
with a tailored jacket in almost any color.

The only real frilly dress in the collection is
quite cute with it's 1950's vibe.

Impressive.

What do you think?

xo,
Christina

Photo credits: Victoria Beckham Website

When Fashion Teaches You A Lesson From The Independent Fashion Bloggers Links A' La Mode

2010-11-21T09:04:00.000-08:00

When fashion teaches you a lesson

Edited by: Marie Denee of The Curvy Fashionista

As fashion bloggers, we are often the ones sharing and giving advice about fashion. But what happens when fashion turns the table on us and teaches us a lesson or two? From learning how to be thrifty, coping through a crisis, or the economy, these fashion bloggers took a cue from fashion's lessons and turned them into a delicious and delectable read- and I have rounded these up for you...

Links à la Mode: November 18th

Almost Sober Mag: Pull It, Push It and Come Back When You Proved It: Direct experience from a newly established independent publisher: a week as a fashion editor.

Beyond Fabric: On the relation between Body Language and Fashion Photography

Dedicated Follower: To Write Love on Her Arms - I join the movement and write love on my arms in honor of a lost friend.

Exiled from the City: Throughout the past few years, there has been a paradigm shift in consumer variables and the function of fashion.

For those about to Shop: Society must take some responsibility for the dangerous obsession to be thin.

Freeda Style: "Appropriate Attire" Are ALL the old rules of fashion dead? Or should some survive?

Haute World: Grace Kelly Exhibition: How a royal style icon can teach us a lesson in thriftiness.

Heathers Design Blog: Musings on fashion now and fashion then, based on the exhibit "Fashioning Fashion" at LACMA.

Independent Fashion Bloggers: Self-Promotion 101: It's not about you

LivLux Mag: ComfortZones: Even Fashionistas get insecure when trying new styles.

Make the World a Prettier Place: History of Fashion: The New Look (1947)

Miss Vinyl Ahoy: I've read some negative comments about the 30 for 30 challenge, and wanted to explain more of what it is and why people should care about it, from my POV.

Modesty Theory: Welcome to Hijabi Fashion Week- showcasing the style of Muslim women for various occasions.

Oh My Massila: Reflections on the crossroads between fashion and feminism.

Previously Owned: The tale of the "00s" Vintage and the mockery of the consumer... Are we becoming victims of the mass media?

RetroChick: Why Fashion isn't Frivolous

Return to Sender: Sometimes life gets in the way of fashion. How I Survive A Crisis

Searching for Style: Fashion 101: Who Owns What. The lowdown on the big fashion conglomerates and the companies they own.

Socialite Dreams: Sparkly, glam shoes are a must have for the holidays! Twinkle Toes: The Holiday Shoe Guide

Taste and Style: Keep Being YOU.

The Curvy Fashionista: How to determine quality in plus size fashion

SPONSOR:

Shopbop Boots:KORS, Joie, UGG, Coclico, Frye, L.A.M.B, Hunter, Frye, DV, Ash, & 12th St.

xo,

Christina

All found at Independent Fashion Bloggers

Belle Inspiration eMag The Enchanting Holiday Edition Launching November 15th

2010-11-05T14:34:00.000-07:00

Get inspired for the holidays with

Belle Inspiration's enchanting holiday

e-mag edition that is launching November 15th.

This issue will cover romantic dinner settings, extra ordinary holiday decor, effortless entertaining and a showcase on sunny Miami gardens.

"Belle Inspiration is your rendez-vous with good taste and style. Published bi-monthly and delivered to you in a digital flip-page format.

Based in Paris France, our international team of contributors are all about a romantic style of living, and enjoying the simple things that can make your day more beautiful.

Each issue will profile practical and versatile ideas coupled with beautiful images, unique boutiques, wallet-friendly solutions for interiors, food and fashion.

Meet business-minded women and discover how they launched their dreams. We endeavor to be your online escape, a small respite during your busy day. For you, your family, your home, your life!"

I was lucky enough to be able to write an article about the history and value of cameos for this special issue. I am still pinching myself over this one...

If you subscribe to this special magazine, please let me know what you think. The first issue was breathtaking and full of so many wonderful articles. You can preview two of the amazing articles here.

I can't wait to see the Holiday Issue!

The magazine is only $19 for a yearly subscription

for 6 issues that is sent directly to you as an e-mail.

Have you seen this magazine yet?

Or, do you follow their enchanting blog

called Bonjour Romance

by the lovely and talented Mimi?

She has an amazing gift basket from Metis Linens

that you may want to enter into. Fabulous!

If you have a business to market,

this may be a great place to get international exposure.

Enjoy dear friends.

xo,

Christina

All photos from the Belle Inspiration website.

Your Spot Is Reserved For Dinner...

2010-11-02T10:09:00.000-07:00

Your special spot is reserved today

at the dinner table.

Come enjoy an elegant dinner

at my parents home with us.

My Grandmother's colorful floral

china, Waterford glasses and sterling set the mood

for this festive table and

brings back fond family memories.

Anyone hungry?

My Mom has always been able to create tablescapes that are magical. She certainly has a gift and I love to see what she has created each time we go to dinner at her home. She loves to pull out all the stops and enjoy her collections. And, there is just something special about being at your Mom's house for dinner.

Do you use china and crystal and the such? I do whenever possible since it reminds me of my Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. They all adored their fine things and collected them for us to enjoy as well. But, washing all the precious dishes by hand is my least favorite thing... Yet, setting the table is the most fun and the anticipation of the evening to come is always gratifying.

xo,

Christina

Photos taken by Fab Finds Gal

Hot Lipstick Heels On Katy Perry~ Love or Not So Much?

2010-10-23T12:12:00.000-07:00

Lipstick heels. Love or not so much?

Best wishes to Katy on her

upcoming marriage today.

I can't wait to see what she wears since she is

always pushing the fashion envelope.

What do you think?

xo,

Christina

Fashion Blog Improvement via Links a' La Mode Top Fashion Posts By The Independent Fashion Bloggers

2010-10-03T17:57:00.000-07:00

Fashion Blog Improvement

Edited by Jennine Jacob of Independent Fashion Bloggers

Whether you are contemplating starting a blog or if you've been bloggging for a while, getting to know the ropes is a never-ending journey. This week we have a nice round up of bloggers sharing how they do it, what they find important about blogging. From taking your own photos, whether or not to have comments, and how to cover the fashion shows with your own twist, this is the week to buckle down and learn.

Links à la Mode: September 30th

Boheme Noir: Burberry S/S 11 Show Coverage

Brachman's Sparrow: So you want to know how to grow your blog…

Chic Steals: Marshall's and the World of Off-Price Retailing

Dramatis Personae: Fashion vs. Fatfashion Blogger

Dressful: Fashion is Art, Not Trivial!

Fashion Pulse Daily:New York Fashion Week Team’s Top Spring 2011 Trends

Fete a Fete: Dolce & Gabana Evocative Beauty Fall 2010

Hello Beauty: Bobbi Brown Black Velvet Fall 2010 Collection Review & Video

Independent Fashion Bloggers: The Importance (and Unimportance) of Being Niche'd

Leia's Delights: No Comments?

ModlyChic: How to Take Your Own Outfit Photos

Retro Chick: Revies Illamasqua Lipstick

Scarlet Letter Style: Are Boobs Really Back?

Style Spotting: The Women of Warpaint

The Column of Samantha Tyler: Decoding: Bestiary of the IT Girls

The Coveted: Getting Inspired by The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Lingerie Addict: How to Dress Like Dita von Teese

The Simpliy Luxurious Life: Tips for Looking Fantastic Each Day

Vogue Gone Rouge: New Upcoming Designers Show

Wit & Whimsy: Getting to know designer Phillip Lim and why everyone's talking about him and his line

SPONSOR:

Shop style at Shopbop: Tunics - 291 - Kill City - Tilo - Georgie - Parker - Freecity - Flats

xo,

Christina

All found at Independent Fashion Bloggers Website.

Apostrophe To The Ocean

2010-09-25T11:52:00.000-07:00

"There is a pleasure in the pathless woods,

There is a rapture on the lonely shore,

There is society where none intrudes,

by the deep sea, and music in its roar.

I love not man the less, but Nature more,

From these our interviews, in which I steal

From all I may be, or have been before,

To mingle with the universe, and feel

What I can ne'er express, yet can not all conceal.

Roll on, thou deep and dark blue ocean, roll!

Ten thousand fleets sweep over thee in vain;

Man marks the earth with ruin, his control ..."

xo,

Christina

Photo by Mario Testino and found at the Doll Factory.
Poem "Apostrophe to the Ocean" by George Gordon Byron found from the book

The World's Best Loved Poems.

Are You A Follower Of Fashion? Links A' La Mode Via Independent Fashion Bloggers

2010-09-24T00:20:00.000-07:00

Are You a Follower of Fashion?

Edited by: Ann of Holier than Now

Last week marked the end of New York Fashion Week. Post-show, the editors, buyers and bloggers went to work to define and list the trends, hoping we'll follow along. But for many of us, the sheer shirts of Spring '11 were are about as realistic for our wardrobes as a meat dress. Instead, we looked outside of Lincoln Center at the street style of individuals, hoping to find the inspiration to zig when everyone else is zagging. This week's post celebrates the path less ... followed, with counterpoints on everything from current trends to blogger compensation and competition.

Links à la Mode: September 23

Any Second Now: Dolly Bats & Clobber at Bona Drag

A Pretty Penny: Newsprint Manicure

Beauty and The Recession: They Put WHAT in Your Lipstick?

Beautifully Invisible: The Meat Dress: Fashionable, Art or Just Controversial?

Beyond Fabric: How To Pull Off A Bow Tie

Cloud of Secrets: Wishing for a Spirit Style Guide

Despising Life is So Passe: The Glories of Thigh Highs (and How to Make Them Work)

Gretchen Blogs: When To Work For Free

Holier than Now: Animal Print, Rainbow Hair, Layers - It Must Be Fall '10. Or Is It?? A Contest.

Independent Fashion Bloggers: Evolving Influence Recap: Love & Links

It's Symmetrical: A Shopping Revelation Inspired by an Anonymous Comment

My Closet In Sketches: Unlikely Combinations for Fashion Inspiration

Oranges and Apples: On Competition in the Blogosphere

The Button Owl: On Liberation in the Age of Implants, Pornography and Pole Dancing

The Chic Addict: A Pale Skin Girl in a Tan Obsessed World

The Column of Samantha Tyler: A (Sarcastic) Look at Winter's Hot Trends

The Daily Julie: fashionSpark: Fashion Design, North Carolina Style

The Pursuers: A Love Letter to Legwear

Tickle Me Chic: Labels that Lie: How Vanity Sizing has Become an Epidemic

View from 5 ft. 2: New York Fashion Week Street Style - The Pictures You Haven't Seen

Violet Revolution: Edgy and Stylish Fall Fashion

SPONSOR:

Latest at Shopbop: Denim -Madewell - Skirts - Under Ligne - Obakki -Dresses - DKNY

Xo,

Christina

Found at Independent Fashion Blogger Website

The First Collection From Polish Stylist Turned Fashion Designer Marta Sililol

2010-09-23T09:19:00.000-07:00

When most of us think fashion and design we think of finding them in New York, Milan or Paris. Showcased is Polish stylist turned designer, Marta Sinilol, and her first collection.

Her designs, styling and photography are

incredibly creative, professional and inspiring.

I can't wait to see where she goes from here.
What do you think?

xo,

Christina

Photo credits: as'ter magazine

Lookbook: Marta Siniło Season: Fall Winter 2010.11 Designer/Stylist: Marta Siniło Stylist's assistant: Areta Szpura Hair: Emil Zed Make-up: Aneta Kostrzewa Photographer: Łukasz Ziętek Website: www.martasinilo.

Working The New Season With Fabulous New Discovers~ Links A' La Mode, Top Fashion Weekly Posts From Independent Fashion Bloggers

2010-09-20T09:08:00.000-07:00

Working the new season with fabulous new discoveries.

Influences, Impressions, and Interpretations of Fashion and what it all means

Edited by: Marie Denee of The Curvy Fashionista

It is without a doubt that fashion makes the world go round. Just last week, Fashion's Night Out helped revive the economy, fashion week's across the world bring together old friends, new friends, and those in between. Technology fused with fashion now offers inside perspectives- once only exclusively shared. Adding to this breath of fashion are those who blog.

This week's roundup offers a retrospect of fashion as New York Fashion Week comes to a close, designers have teased us with what's to come, and the world comes back to life- the fashion blogger's mind only now begins to race with influences, impressions, and interpretations of Fall Fashion and what it all means...

Amanda Brohman: How the nerds(and their style) conquered the fashion world:

Amanda Lee Dot Org: How to Make High Heels Bearable

Denim Debutante: Wearing White AFTER Labor Day

Dirty Hems: Fashion is a Tramp: the cyclical nature of cultural appropriation in fashion, particularly pertaining to the homeless & "hobo-chic"

Dramatis Personae: Fall Fantasy Lookbook- the bits and pieces I'm coveting for Fall '10

Fashioncents: 3 guidelines for wearing or not wearing socks with shoes. It's time we all got on the right foot with this one.

For Those About to Shop: So much invaluable information at the IFB conference. I decided to take Gala's advice and write my first "how to":

Grechen Blogs: how to make your fashion blog more user-friendly

Houndstooth and Tortoiseshell: So, how do you make it in the fashion industry: Real life advice on how to break into the fashion biz from a successful runway producer.

Interrobangs Anonymous: Gender roles in fashion blogging:

Mimosas in Bed: The big apple gets evolved

Pretty Shiny Sparkly: The Thrift Virgin - One girl's deflowering when it comes to thrift shopping fashion.

Previously Owned: Exclusivity vs. availability: New media taking over?

SLSVGG Fashion: The best bits of London's Fashion Night Out

Style Eyes Fashion: Join the evolution for a new fashion democracy - do you get fed up with being told what you 'must have for the season ahead' here's how to end the dictatorship and have your say.

Style Spotting: Fashion's Night Out in LA with celeb stylist Taylor Jacobson and her collaboration with Kasil denim. Loved her hot rocker chic!

The Curvy Fashionista: My Fall 2010 Luxe(wish)list- aka my birthday wishlist

The Lingerie Addict: Should You Buy Your Lingerie Online or In Stores? A brief guide to knowing the best place to buy your most intimate fashions.

The Little Curly Girl: The camel coat is one of the most talked about pieces for Fall 2010. Will you be wearing one this season?

Your Saving Style: A Thought About Real Women

Sponsor:

Now at Shopbop: Ever - LD Tuttle -DL1961 - Tapeet - IRO - MiH - Factory - Sexy Tops

xo,

Christina

Sheer Elegance

2010-09-18T09:55:00.000-07:00

Sheer elegance is difficult to accomplish. But, not for the ladies. They have created the perfect balance with this fashion trend. Kylie Minogue walks the tight rope perfectly with her sheer lace form fitting dress.

I am loving the elegant black beading design with the sheer and the addition of dark black tights and shoes on "Heroes" star Hayden Panetiene. The tights, dark nails and pulled back hair really tone down the sexiness and class up this outfit.

I wish, i wish... I could see this in person. The details looks amazing, even when photographed. Although, this almost boarders on a dress with a bit too much going on. But, she really knows how to work a dress and look so graceful.

Singer Adrienne Balion and NY Jets Darrelle Revis looking hot. Adrienne is in a solid black cocktail length with sheer details turn a 80's favorite into a modern look. Her hair being slickly pulled back helps balance the sexiness of the dress and gives it a modern twist.

This sassy fringe and sheer combo on Eva Longoria is perfection with it's balance of sexy, flirty and ladylike details.

Hot salsa dancing romantic number
on Disney star Vanessa Hudgens. This dress makes me want to go dancing.

I am adoring this adorable and age appropriate dress on Disney star Selena Gomez.
And, check out those acrylic heels with the black bow! This gal has it going on and at such a young age.

Hot little 1980's metallic details with sheer number found at Om Again Vintage. This shop is really packed with so many vintage dresses and eras to choose from!

Fabulous 1980's black stretchy cocktail dress with pearl details on the shoulders found at Fabulous Finds & Co.

Oh so cute reconstructed hot pink and black dress with flirty black lace bottom found at Fabulous Finds and Co.

What do you think?

Who wore it best?

Is wearing sheer up your alley?

xo,

Christina

All celebrity photos found at New York Daily News.com

Metallic sheer found at Om Again Vintage

Last two photos found at Fabulous Finds and Co.

It's Time To Celebrate With A Waterman Pen Giveaway With Launch Of Belle Inspiration Magazine!

2010-09-14T14:48:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the launch of Belle Inspiration e-Magazine
we are planning a launch party of sorts.

A fête to mark the occasion.

The location is Blogland, over at Mimi' Bleu's place at Bonjour Romance.

Also, you'll want to get your name in now for the special giveaway.

A Waterman fountain pen.

A special edition pen with a pretty band of Swarovsky crystals, and a blue case.

The winner will be announced at Bonjour Romance on the evening of the 15th.

Good luck kids!

I received my e-magazine of Belle Inspiration

and it is truly a heavenly feast for the eyes,

the articles are impeccably written and

full of amazing information about living romantically.

It is a glorious 172 pages that feature my sweet and

talented blog friends Violetta Medvedeva of VM creations

and the Bonbon Rose Girls (Kristen & Megan). What a delight!

Don't miss out, dear friends.

xo,

Christina

Photos and information found at Bonjour Romance via Mimi Bleu

Guess Who?

2010-09-13T13:31:00.001-07:00

I know you are savvy.

So, I thought you might know this one.

Who photographed these?

xo,

Christina

Photo credits to follow... No hints!!

Working The New Season With Fabulous New Discovers~ Links A' La Mode, Top Fashion Weekly Posts From Independent Fashion Bloggers

2010-09-13T08:20:00.000-07:00

I've been overwhelmed by the quality of the submissions and I hope you'll enjoy reading these as much as I have. This week the issue of workwear is tackled whether as a fashion blogger you're heading to Fashion Week or you're not sure how to translate your everyday style to the office. The latter is a dilemma I'm often confronted with when dressing for work. Through the links I have also gleefully discovered some wonderful designers to dreamily sigh over the work of; these garments would most definitely fit into my wardrobe perfectly, be it in the smart section or the purely frivolous one.

A La ModestReintroducing the morality within green ethical fashion

Bachman's Sparrow What better way to greet the new season than a beautiful, one-of-a-kind statement necklace?

Beyond FabricEnhancing your image: posture and body image.

Boheme NoirTen ways to style the classic Chanel jacket young & fabulous.

Fabulous Finds Girl Ann Wiberg creates future vintage by recycling materials with Trash-Couture.

Fashezine Inspired by the sensuality of Joan, the determination of Peggy, and Betty Draper's elegance, a girl goes mad for Mad Men.

Fashion Limbo Brand Love or I Want What She's Wearing - How brands fail to get me and what/who truly inspire me

Grit and Glamour Staying true to you when dressing for dress code.

Hello beauty! Review and makeup lesson video with the NARS Fall 2010 Collection with NARS National Makeup Stylist Janice Daoud

Intrinsically Florrie Exploring the historic city of Bath in style.

Manda Bear Fall Outwear Finds, Beauty Goodies and other Treasures.

Mis Papelicos A first Ebay buy and what to look for when shopping online.

Oranges and Apples A vintage wedding dress on a budget, plus some ideas for styling it.

Poetic and Chic In which I spot the most beautiful pair of Louboutins and get inspired.

Pull your socks up! What do you do with an inherited, precious and much-coveted family heirloom?

Retro Chick Retro Style for Autumn: Lena Hoschek Autumn Winter 2010

Seven Deadly Cyns Death by Cosmetics- the dangers of harmful ingredients in our beauty products and what you should look out for.

The Coveted What to Wear to NYFW

The New Professional How high is too high for heels in the office?

Wit & Whimsy Designer on the Rise: Whitney Pozgay

SPONSOR: http://www.shopbop.com/actions/designerindex/viewNewDesigners.action?folderID=2534374302158868: Cosabella - Dannijo - Houlihan Cargos - T-Bags - BE & D

Xo and Enjoy,

Christina

Fashion Designer at Home with Ann Wiberg of Trash-Couture

2010-09-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

Oh yes... the power of black, grey and white.

I found these beauties over at the blog Scandinavian Chic of fashion designer Ann Wiberg's personal pad. FABULOUS!! You can see my previous post this week on her designs if you missed it.

I love a sneak peak into any fashion designers home because it usually is just as creative and bold as the fashion designs they create.

What do you think?

Who is your favorite designer's pad?

xo,

Christina

Photos from Blogger Scandinavian Chic from Elle Interiors Norway Magazine

Countdown To Belle Inspiration Magazine Launch

2010-09-09T07:04:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous images, interesting articles, faraway places, and easy design and living style. Belle Inspiration e-Magazine is a bi-monthly publication that is sure to be a delight. Plus, one of our fellow bloggers, Mimi of Bonjour Romance, is part of the creative team. Mimi is an American living the dream in France with the saying "Put a little oh la la in your life". Her blog is fabulously inspiring.

If this video is even close to a representation,

this magazine is really going to be something special.
Subscribe now before the September 15th launch

so you don't miss a thing!

xo,

Christina

La Nuit Collection of Future Vintage Trash-Couture by Ann Wiberg

2010-09-06T08:23:00.000-07:00

In 2002, Scandinavian designer Ann Wiberg , created Trash Couture. Trash - Couture recycles vintage materials into works of art. The label is a pioneer of environmentally conscious and ethical couture production. It was Trash - Couture , which opened Prêt - à - Porter last spring with a huge show to mark the launch of the Ethical Fashion, as fashion industry's key element for the future. Trash-Couture presents their collection bi-yearly at Pret-a-Porter.

Each creation is unique and created as a limited edition which include ball and bridal gowns and corsets. The entire collection is made out of silk, tulle, couture embroideries, and is decorated with vintage lace and semi-precious stones.

Check out her website that is a fairytale of visual and auditory delights that takes us behind the scenes of this photo shot.

If this is trash, well... can I take it out? And wear it!!

xo,

Christina

Back to School They Go... With MayaLee Photography

2010-09-04T11:26:00.001-07:00

If I had a little girl, this is the desk

I would love to create for her school work.

Check out MayaLee Photography

for see her amazingly creative eye

in photograpy and her home for fun ideas.

What do you think? Fun?

xo,

Christina

Photos found on MayaLee's blog.

Hearst Castle in San Simeon on the California Coast

2010-09-03T10:03:00.001-07:00

Behold our European style castle on the coast of California created by magazine Mogul, William Randolph Hearst,

named Hearst Castle.

The castle is 90,080 square feet with 56 bedrooms, 61 bathrooms, 41 fireplaces and 19 sitting rooms.

The magnificent Neptune pool is 104 x 38 feet is breathtaking
while holding 345,000 gallons of water.

"In 1865, George Hearst, a wealthy miner, purchased 40,000-acres of ranchland that included the Mexican Ranchos of Piedras Blancas, San Simeon and Santa Rosa. In 1919, his only son, William Randolph Hearst, inherited the land from his mother, Phoebe Apperson Hearst. By then the ranch had grown to encompass 250,000 acres.

Originally known as "Camp Hill," its wilderness offered a place for family members and friends to "rough it" on camping trips. Despite elaborate arrangements with separate sleeping and dining tents, Hearst envisioned more comfortable accommodations. His simple instructions to famed San Francisco architect Julia Morgan in 1919: "Miss Morgan, we are tired of camping out in the open at the ranch in San Simeon and I would like to build a little something".

Hearst and Morgan's collaboration was destined to become one of the world's greatest showplaces. As they were planning and constructing his dream home, Hearst renamed the rocky perch from which it rose "La Cuesta Encantada" - The Enchanted Hill. By 1947, Hearst and Morgan had created an estate of 165 rooms and 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools and walkways.

The estate's magnificent main house, "Casa Grande," and three guest houses are of Mediterranean Revival style, while the imposing towers of Casa Grande were inspired by a Spanish cathedral. The blending of the architectural style with the surrounding land, and Hearst's superb European and Mediterranean art collection, was so seamless that world-renowned architectural historian, Lord John Julius Norwich, was moved to say that "Hearst Castle is a palace in every sense of the word"."

What a place to visit and it reminds us that we can dream BIG. A man with a unique vision created this masterpiece and we are lucky to be able to enjoy it still today. I can't take my young son to Europe yet, so this is the closest thing I can do to expand his mind today.

What do you think of Hearst Castle?

xo,

Christina

Photo and text credit: Hearst Castle Website

A Breath of Fresh Air~ Anthropologie's September Catalog In Argentina

2010-09-02T07:12:00.000-07:00

Anthropologie's September catalog was created in the Argentina plains and is quite a photographic pleasure. They take us on an adventure while riding horses in this magnificent countryside. Horse themes for decor and thick cold weather ready sweaters and jackets seem to fit perfectly with this terrain. The catalog is less about clothes and more about celebrating the beauty of the animals and the countryside. It's like a breath of fresh air to my soul. It makes me want to take a road trip and see nature in all it's glory. I am inspired and for just a moment was transported to Argentina.

Are you inspired as well?

What do you think about Anthropolgie?

xo,

Christina

Photos found at Anthropologies website.

Behold Restoration Hardware's Fall 2010 Collection

2010-08-26T10:34:00.000-07:00

Grand and more is more in subtle earth tones hit the mark

this Fall. As I flipped through my new catalog it feels like a touch of European and Provence meets Industrial design. They really have stepped up their design and their website is a dream to use and purchase these items. I just had to share.

What do you think? How would you describe it? Inspiring?

xo,

Christina

All photos from the Restoration Hardware website.

"My Hair" by Mencita Monoi Angel

2010-08-24T13:10:00.000-07:00

"MY HAIR"

Don't you ever dare to cut my long hair
It would just not be fair
It does make me feel dressed
And seems like a fluid caress

Don’t you ever dare to steal my hair
Having long braids of a pair
Wavy cascades down the spine
Think of drinking some lovely vine

Don’t you ever dare to pull my hair
Only if lost in real despair
Using all your tender fingertips
On some sensual inviting hips

Don’t you ever dare to blow my hair
Even so you cant stop to stare
Snaky curls bustling around
Look at them but keep to the ground

Don’t you ever dare to touch my hair
If not being able to take care
Colors and strands of hazelnut
For sure it will never ever be cut

Don’t you ever dare to comb my hair
It’s as floating in the breezy air
Fluid like a woven golden lace
Lovely long and shiny embrace

My hair dresses me nicely
My hair is my jewellery
My hair belongs only to me

Poem by Mencita (Carmen) Monoi Angel

How important is your hair to you?

What does it mean to you?

What lengths do you go to get your hair cut

or style just right?

xo,

Christina

Photo credits: All found on Photobucket.

Belle Inspiration Magazine Launch Sept. 15th Celebrating La Joie De Vivre

2010-08-16T00:05:00.000-07:00

Welcome dear readers to a

brand new online e-magazine

called Belle Inspiration

that is "Your Online Escape".

It will cover such inspiring things as

fashion, vintage fashion, interior design,

dining, food and all things lovely with

an international twist.

It will take us on a journey to exotic

and far away places.
And, give us ideas to bring to our homes.

Somehow I have made the way to be a

contributing writer regarding vintage fashion.

Belle Inspiraton is sure to be a visual delight full of wonderful information to stimulate our minds.

You can get inspired now by visiting their online boutique.

The premiere online issue is to

launch September 15th.

You can preorder and

get your hot little hands

on your own issue here.

Get inspired!

Love and light,

Christina

All photos found at the Belle Inspiration Website.

Blue Creek Home To Make Your House A Home

2010-08-10T17:53:00.000-07:00

My favorite Etsy store of the day is Blue Creek Home. This gal has quite an eye for things unique and actually creates her own custom pillows for a remarkable price.

To find the complete line of true vintage finds at

Blue Springs Home Etsy Shop Here.

Any finds you might not be able to live without?

Love and light,

Christina

Small in Size, But Packing A Big Punch~ Designer Nicole Gibbon's Apartment

2010-08-06T10:16:00.000-07:00

Small in size, but packing a big punch, this

classy and sassy 650 square foot apartment in Harlem created and lived in by interior designer and fellow blogger, Nicole Gibbons.

I found this gem of a home at Apartment Therapy.

I adore the mixture of textures, finishes and subtle colors

that open up the small space. Also, I am loving the fact

that she didn't overwhelm the space

with too many accessories.

You will notice that every piece of furniture is used as storage and is the perfect scale while adding additional surfaces for displaying collections. Nicole mixes antiques from travels with modern pieces in a fresh way to convey her unique personality.

What designer doesn't have a ton of design books. This table is genius for storing her favorites right next to her special reading place in the living room. And, her Asian treasures and flower seem to fit just perfectly on the table while using a modern light for reading.

Nicole did invest in the best mattress possible, since she says we all spend one-third of our lives in bed. Monogrammed linens really set the tone for this luxurious bed, while the padded headboard calls to you to jump on in and read a book in comfort. The large side tables provide a grand space for treasures and great storage as well.

Here is the 650 square foot floor plan. Nicole created a special home that has a grand feel while being comfortable, classic and modern. Check out her haute blog that is appropriately called So Haute for more design tips and all things lovely.

What do you like best about her home or

what tricks do you have for opening up a space?

Love and light,
Christina

Photos and article found at Apartment Therapy

Love, What Does It Mean To You?

2010-08-01T20:08:00.000-07:00

“I don't pretend to know what love is for everyone, but I can tell you what it is for me; love is knowing all about someone, and still wanting to be with them more than any other person, love is trusting them enough to tell them everything about yourself, including the things you might be ashamed of, love is feeling comfortable and safe with someone, but still getting weak knees when they walk into a room and smile at you.”

“Love is the condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own.” Robert Heinlein.

“Each moment of a happy lover's hour is worth an age of dull and common life.” Aphra Behn.

Romantic love to me is when you want to share everything in life with them, you just can't stand to be without them, and when you think of them you smile. And, they just do it for you in every way possible and challenge you to be the best person you can possibly be. And, it sure helps if you like to spend your spare time the same way and you have the same goals and values. Hey, other than that, it's a piece of cake. Right?

What is romantic love to you?

Love and light,
Christina

Quotes found at quotes for anniversary.

Photo found at Photobucket.

DIY How To Funk Up A Vintage Record Cabinet With Cowhide

2010-07-28T09:19:00.000-07:00

This unique mid century looking record cabinet with funky cowhide caught my eye today. I love putting a little funk into a piece of junk. What about you?

I swear I have seen these cabinets many a time in my local thrift stores. Dang, I wish I would have had the foresight. And, truth be told, most the items in my home where acquired at estate sales, garage sales and thrift stores. Shush... don't tell anybody!

"How To Deck Out an Old Record Cabinet

When you find one of these old record cabinets, you absolutely must buy it. After a good cleaning, it's a perfectly charming piece of furniture you can use for a side table, printer stand or even to hold a vintage turntable. Once the wood is cleaned up, sanded, primed and painted, the sides are ready to cover in spotted cowhide. It's a piece of furniture that's practical, as well as chock full of personality. Occasionally, DIY projects don't turn out as well as you imagined, not so with this one, it's a keeper.

Materials

furniture cleaner
sand paper or sanding pad
primer
latex enamel paint
fine steel wool
pieces of spotted cowhide large enough to cover the sides of the cabinet
Old Gold Furniture Polish
contact cement

Tools

small foam paint roller and tray
sharp utility knife
ruler
1 1/2" foam paintbrush
roller or brayer

Instructions
1. Place the cabinet on its back and remove the sliding doors
2. Clean up the outside and inside of the cabinet and legs with furniture cleaner and a cloth
3. Lightly sand the top and sides of the cabinet, wipe off dust with a cloth
4. Prime and paint the top and around the outside edges of the cabinet, let dry, repeat.
5. Use steel wool to clean up the sliding doors and rub them down with Old Gold furniture polish
6. Measure the side of the cabinet to determine how big to cut the cowhide
7. Cut two pieces of spotted cowhide, paint contact cement on the back side and on the cabinet side
8. Carefully adhere the cowhide to the sides of the cabinet. Use a roller or brayer to smooth the hide flat
9. Replace doors

Additional notes:Sometimes you can find pieces of hides at thrift stores. There are online sources for hides but there are also places that sell scraps. Do some investigation so you don't wind up with an entire hide."

View additional photos of this project.

Good luck and happy hunting for the perfect cabinet to transform!

What is the best DIY project you have ever done?

Love and light,

Christina

Article and photos found at Apartment Therapy.

The Best Advice My Mom Ever Shared With Me...

2010-07-25T22:30:00.000-07:00

After an amazing week of a family reunion vacation, I find myself reflecting on the power of family. And, how they create who we are. And, well, that goes right on back to Mom and Dad for me. What I remember as a defining moment in my life was when my Mom sat me down when I was about 9 years old and explained what my parents expected from me. She proceeded to say that I was born "cute" and that was a gift. I didn't have to work at it and I didn't earn it. So, from that moment forward I would never hear my parents praise the fact that I was cute. And, the fact my brother was a bit of a genius (top 100 high school students in America, barely studied and got straight A's, graduated college with honors, so basically every siblings nightmare) was never going to be discussed either, because it was a gift to him as well. These gifts were given to us and we had not earned them. But, what would be praised was anything we did with these gifts and any others we created ourselves.

And, they would never compare my grades to my brother's either. What was expected from me was that I give it my best. I remember pleading with my Mom for our I.Q's, which she stubbornly said wasn't important.

And, finally my Mother said it was up to me to develop my inward beauty and that was really what counted in life. What a wise woman she was.

All I can say is I am thankful my parents pushed me to establish myself inwardly and not just rely on my looks to get by. Not that I am or was that cute anyway. But, Lord knows beauty fades.

Going to college was not an option. I figured my I.Q. must have at least been enough to get me through college, otherwise my parents wouldn't have been so darn persistent. Or, I hoped or prayed! I do plan to pass this standard forward to my son. And, thankfully because of a little tough love from my parents, I did push myself to evolve in a few arenas. Not that I am very talented in any of them, but at least I didn't end up looking in the mirror all day and only getting my confidence from what looked back at me. Because the fact that I am now in my mid-forties, I can attest to the fact that outward beauty fades. Whether you like it or not. And, thankfully, I seemed to blossom in a few other abilities; such as athletics, interior design, fashion, sales and writing. The only time I have ever been able to pull off straight A's in school was when it was interior design school. That was a bit of a shocker. I thought my brother could only do that. And, the ability to write has been just as shocking. Both of which my parents are beyond thrilled and incredibly supportive. We all scratch our heads and say "where did that come from?" And, after all these years my Mom has said, "See, you are as smart as your brother!

You just weren't interested in the subject matter."

All I can say is "thanks for making me become ME

from the inside out,

Mom and Dad."

I can only hope that I can do the same for my son.

What advice have you gotten that changed your life

or made a difference?

Or, what advice would you give a child or parent?

Please tell...

Love and light,

Christina

Photo credit: Photobucket

Summertime

2010-07-11T17:44:00.000-07:00

"Sun is shining. Weather is sweet.

Make ya want to move your dancing feet".

Bob Marley

"Amazing friends; summer nights;
Chocolate ice cream; mud slide fights;
Half the summer is gone already
So lets spend the rest of it; slow and steady."

Anonymous

"Summer's filled with breaking the rules, standing apart, ignoring your head, and following your heart." Anonymous

What does summer mean to you?

Love and light,

Christina

Photo credit: Photobucket and Quotes from Quotelicious

Lenny Kravitz's Heartfelt "Believe in Me" Song and His Unbelievable Interiors

2010-07-06T09:28:00.000-07:00

Lenny Kravitz is known for being an amazing rock musician and for his public love life. But, what you may not know about him is his passion for interior design.

Like many artists, he has a love for many different arenas and is pushing himself to master and learn new talents. After looking at these photos of several of his private homes, I can see he is a Renaissance man.

"I love big monochromatic statements," he said. "Especially black and white," an aesthetic inclination whose racial relevance is not lost on him, "since my mother was black and my father white."

This video is a song about just believing in him.

I believe this man could do anything he put his mind to.

Bravo! What an inspiration.

xo,

Christina

Credits: N. Y. Times Home and Garden

Happy 4th of July with Lenny Kravitz's "American Woman"

2010-07-04T11:53:00.000-07:00

"American woman, stay away from me
American woman, mama let me be
Don't come hanging around my door
I don't want to see your face no more
I got more important things to do
Than spend my time growin' old with you
Now woman, stay away
American woman, listen what I say

American woman, get away from me
American woman, mama let me be
Don't come knocking around my door
I don't want to see your shadow no more
Colored lights can hypnotize
Sparkle someone else's eyes
Now woman, get away
American woman, listen what I say

American woman, I said get way
American woman, listen what I say
Don't come hanging around my door
Don't want to see your face no more
I don't need your war machines
I don't need your ghetto scenes
Colored lights can hypnotize
Sparkle someone else's eyes
Now woman, get away
American woman, listen what I say
American woman, stay away from me
American woman, mama let me be

I gotta go
I gotta getta away
Babe I gotta go
I wanna fly away
I'm gonna leave you woman
I'm gonna leave you woman
I'm gonna leave you woman
I'm gonna leave you woman
Bye bye, bye bye...
Bye bye, bye bye
American woman.....
And you're no good for me
And I'm no good for you
I look you right straight in the eye
And tell you what I'm gonna do
I'm gonna leave you woman
You know I gotta go
I'm gonna leave you woman
I gotta go
I gotta go

I gotta go
American woman
Yeah"

I think this song by Lenny Kravitz is perfect to party with poolside today to celebrate our American freedom. There is something so empowering about the line "And you're no good for me, And, I'm no good for you." that resonates for me today. I can say there have been a few men that I knew from the start were not good for me. I went along for the ride anyway and didn't listen to my intuition. And, got burned. But, to have the foresight to say "bye, bye" because of that nagging intuition can take every ounce of courage in your being and hurts like heck. But, you hope that in the long run less tears will be shed for all.

Enjoy your 4th of July, dear friends!

Have you ever just had to say "bye, bye" to save yourself from someone that you knew wasn't good for you or from a bad situation? Were you better for it? Or, did you wonder if you really made the right decision later?

Love and light,

Christina

Photo credit: Photobucket and video from youtube.com.

Lenny Kravitz crashes the VOP Choir in New Orleans for "Fly Away" CNN. He rocks.

2010-07-03T20:07:00.000-07:00

Lenny Kravitz is one talented man.

If I was a man, I would dress like him. Hey, I'm just saying. The man has style.

I will follow up with his decorating talents next. It is mind blowing.

An artist is an artist. This man is definitely multi-talented.

Enjoy him on the drums and singing on the attached video.

It's really worth the time.

What do you think of Lenny?

Cause, I am thinking he is one cool cat.

Love and light,

Christina

Want To Give Back? The Fresh Air Fund For Children Might Just Be The Perfect Way To Make A Difference In A Child's Life Today!

2010-06-29T10:30:00.000-07:00

Summer 2010 is here and The Fresh Air Fund is in need of host families or a monetary gift. If you or someone you know is able to host in the areas on the map below, please sign up now. If you make a monetary gift before June 30th and a corporation will match your donation, dollar to dollar! And, two inner-city children's lives will be changed forever!

In 2009, The Fresh Air Fund's Volunteer Host Family program, called Friendly Town, gave close to 5,000 New York City boys and girls, ages 6 to 18, free summer experiences in the country and the suburbs. Volunteer host families shared their friendship and homes FOR up to two weeks or more in 13 Northeastern states from Virginia to Maine and Canada.

The Fresh Air Fund relies on donations to provide memorable summers to NYC children.

The Fresh Air Fund needs hosts for the summer of 2010.

More than 65% of all Fresh Air children are reinvited to stay with their host family, year after year.

Thanks to host families who open up their homes for a few weeks each summer, children growing up in New York City’s toughest neighborhoods have experienced the joys of Fresh Air experiences.

Fresh Air Fund Host Families:

"It is rewarding to see the smile on our Fresh Air child's face as she enjoys the simple things we take for granted..."

Friendly Town host families are volunteers who live in the suburbs or small town communities. Host families range in size, ethnicity and background, but share the desire to open their hearts and homes to give city children an experience they will never forget. Hosts say the Fresh Air experience is as enriching for their own families, as it is for the inner-city children. There are no financial requirements for hosting a child.It should be Volunteers may request the age-group and gender of the Fresh Air youngster they would like to host for up to two weeks. Stories about real Fresh Air host families and their New York City visitors are just a click away!

Donate Here

Fresh Air Children:

"We made s'mores and hot dogs over the fire. I've never cooked outside before!"

Fresh Air children are boys and girls, 6 to 18 years old, who live in New York City. Children on first-time visits are six to 12 years old and stay for either one or two weeks. Youngsters who are re-invited by the same family may continue with The Fund through age 18, and many enjoy longer summertime visits, year after year. A visit to the home of a warm and loving volunteer host family can make all the difference in the world to an inner-city child. All it takes to create lifelong memories is laughing in the sunshine and making new friends.

The majority of Fresh Air children are from low-income communities. These are often families without the resources to send their children on summer vacations. Most inner-city youngsters grow up in towering apartment buildings without large, open outdoor play spaces. Concrete playgrounds cannot replace the freedom of running barefoot through the grass or riding bikes down country lanes.

Fresh Air children are registered by more than 90 participating social service and community organizations located in disadvantaged neighborhoods in the five boroughs of New York City. These community-based agencies are in close contact with children in need of summer experiences in rural and suburban areas. Each agency is responsible for registering children for the program.

What do Fresh Air children enjoy?

Playing in the backyard
Laughing in the sunshine
Catching fireflies
Riding bicycles
Learning to swim
Running barefoot through the grass
Gazing at the stars on moonlit nights
Building sandcastles
Making new friends
Simple pleasures of life away from the inner-city

You can give a child the experience of a
lifetime with your gift to The Fresh Air Fund!

Every year, The Fresh Air Fund gives thousands of inner-city children the priceless gift of fun – and opens the door to a lifetime of opportunities.

Whether it's a two-week trip to visit a volunteer host family, or a fun-filled and educational stay at one of our camps, our programs make for unforgettable memories – and open a world of new friendships and fresh possibilities.

We are a not-for-profit agency and depend on tax-deductible donations from people like you to keep our vital programs flourishing.

Your gift of $24 becomes $48 if you donate by/on June 30th (due to the corporate matching dollar for dollar sponsorship), good for TWO round-trip bus tickets from NYC to camp. What a small price to really make a difference in two children's lives this week. The summer came starts next Wednesday, so please act soon if you so wish.

You can DONATE HERE for the summer camp. You can see their website here.

Love and light,

Christina

Photo credit: The Fresh Air Fund Press Release

Why Do Men Cheat? The Third Stage Of Love For Men Is Fidelity

2010-06-27T11:51:00.000-07:00

Well girls, your dream man has finally worked through the "decide" stage of love and has decided to be committed to you. Now, the next stage is where it gets tricky. As you give him the space he craves, a ton of loving attention, possibly are creating a home, working and raising children; he on the other hand is battling with ongoing fidelity issues. Fidelity is the third stage of love for men and is quite an eye opener.

THIS ARTICLE WAS FOUND AT

The 5 Stages of Love For Men

AND

WRITTEN BY A MAN, NOT ME!!!!!!!

"Loyalty- the quality or state or an instance of being loyal
synonym see FIDELITY

Loyal- 1 : unswerving in allegiance: as a : faithful in allegiance to one's lawful sovereign or government b : faithful to a private person to whom fidelity is due c : faithful to a cause, ideal, custom, institution, or product
2 : showing loyalty
3 : obsolete : LAWFUL, LEGITIMATE
synonym see FAITHFUL

Why do men cheat? First of all men do not cheat. Cheating implies that we (MEN AND WOMEN) are playing some sort of game. If both partners in a relationship are serious then nobody is playing any games. To understand MENS approach towards women you have to explore the deepest parts of their mind. If we all want to get out of the crisis that is American relationships then I am sorry but we are going to have to get SCIENTIFIC. The only three words to counter that would be TESTOSTERONE! TESTOSTERONE! TESTOSTERONE! It is this chemical that flows in large proportions throughout men that gives men that good old fashion SEX URGE. That urge to look at countless women while at the same time holding hands with the woman we love. That urge that gives men the capacity to be with woman after woman just for the sex of it instead of the emotional connection. Ladies men don't cheat, men follow the course of what nature has decreed to be the chief chemical that makes them seek as many sexual encounters as possible. Does this mean that testosterone rids men of personal responsibility? NO! Does this mean that testosterone gives all men an access pass authorized by nature to allow men to be WRECKLESS in their relationship? NO! What it does mean though is that a man BY NATURE is designed to go from woman to woman? A mans sex urges flow through his body every hour. That is man's cycle. The cycle may take place in actual thoughts or it may show itself as the sheer stimulation that a man feels just because of the makeup of testosterone. Compare this cycle with the 28 days of a woman. To compare the two and say that men are just like women would be absolutely ridiculous. Since the main chemical that regulate the makeup of women is ESTROGEN, the concept of going from person to person may seem somewhat immoral and non-committal to women. This would also mean that NATURE would allow MEN to be barbaric and savage with the inability to settle down and be a part of a loving relationship with a woman. So to solve this problem NATURE being all purposeful and all knowing came up with the solution of having more then one MARITAL SYSTEM.

What does all this talk of SCIENCE AND MARITAL SYSTEMS have to do with INFIDELITY and men being unfaithful? It means that the way in which we choose to commit and the type of marital system that we choose to operate under is a hidden cause of unfaithfulness. If the women far outnumber men in the world by the millions we have to totally re-evaluate whether or not MONOGAMY OR INDUSTRIAL marriage is the best choice for a society that promotes promiscuity and does not take into account the MAJOR differences that make both genders different and unique. So called cheating is committed by a man in one of two ways. The mans decision to cheat is either PREMEDITATED OR SPONTANEOUS. To fully understand how each one takes place means delving into the deepest part of a MAN'S NATURE. Once the man becomes bored and uninterested in a relationship then his mind starts to wonder. If the woman becomes nagging and a nuisance then the man will slowly consider the relationship a burden instead of a benefit. Remember ladies, men in some ways are like children so it is very important to be aware when your man is becoming disinterested. It is at this point that the idea of having another woman may be more temping to him. He starts to contemplate dealing with someone else without you knowing about it. To most men the idea of having a wife to settle down with and live his nice wholesome life as well as a mistress that doesn't stress him out and is available for the man to talk to without any friction is very appealing. This falls along the lines of Premeditated cheating. On the end is the spontaneous cheating. This happens on the whim. This isn't planned and it doesn't occur because the man is becoming dissatisfied. This occurs because the man has the opportunity to deal with another woman and simply because he can deal with one he will deal with one. Just because a man deals with another woman doesn't mean that he loves the woman or cares about her, it just means that the man has succumb to his urges and has temporarily discarded his commitments.

This type of behavior is detrimental and can cause serious heartache to the woman that gives her heart and time to a man just have him deal with another woman. Ladies to avoid this you may have to embrace the notion of allowing your man to have more then one WIFE. marriage. Industrial marriage deals with one man and one woman. Monogamy is just one parent or single parent household contrary to popular belief. Industrial marriage is set up to stabilize the household because both parents have to work outside the home. This type of marriage is setup up out of forced conditions not necessarily loving and feeling conditions. Monogamy or single parent households are the result of extreme conditions and leave the one parent with no other choice but to take on the role of MOTHER AND FATHER. To eliminate this, POLYGAMY will organize an other wise chaotic institution of marriage into one that is organized and spiritual. Men going from woman to woman is both the calling of nature and at most times the calling of a high level of insecurity and false masculinity on the part of men. Regardless of which marital system you choose to settle down and marry into, the most important thing is to seriously assess the maturity level of the man you choose. It doesn't matter if you are or the system is organize, a man has to first learn DISCIPLINE. POLYGAMY DOES NOT GUARANTEE THAT A MAN WILL BE RESPONSIBLE AND MATURE. It is a system. And like all systems it has to operated in a certain way. And in this system the woman chooses who the other wives should be. To operate under this system the man has to be strong and a warrior. Not someone that is concerned with being a PIMP. He has to be serious about life and business. And ironically, this same seriousness is also needed if you decide to practice the more common marriages that we practice today. The moral of this story is that the man is the MORAL. In any relationship a man has a vow to be upfront with the woman he chooses and avoid the pitfalls of acting forever young and refusing to GROW UP, BE MEN AND START LEADING WOMEN IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION."
~~~~~~~~~~

Is this guy a Mormon and actually for real? He had me thinking he had some validity, but now I am seriously questioning his sanity.

According to him we should just let our husband have two wives because the poor guy has a surge of testosterone running through is veins every hour? REALLY?

And, I am sure that would just take care of ALL the infidelity issues, right? Jeez, why stop at two wives, why not just do an even dozen so he can have a harem and give him lots of options. So, basically your husband regresses back to his old single days with his harem intact and all us poor wives stay loyal to this dead beat as we wait our turn for him?

Makes perfect sense to me... not.

I would love to hear what you think of this one!

(I just remembered a sweet Mormon boy that I dated in High School must have been grooming me to be his "head wife". His crazy mother would show me the recent baby clothes she had acquired for "us" every time I went over there, while her over hundred kookoo wall clocks chimed. Kookoo...kookoo. That should have been my first clue to run like hell, especially since I was only 16 years old. What a joy it would have been to be able to choose his other wives. Thank Goodness I came to my senses, otherwise I would be typing from hell, you know...Utah).

Love and light,

Christina

Photo credit: Photobucket

The Way To A Man's Heart~ The Second Stage Of Love For Men Is "Decision"

2010-06-27T00:06:00.000-07:00

If you have made it this far,

good job on jumping the hurdles through

stage one of a man's love, girls!
You have made the first cut.

But, don't get too comfortable.

No victory dance yet.

Let's see what guys are thinking regarding

the second stage of love, Decision.

THIS ARTICLE WAS FOUND AT

The 5 Stages of Love

AND

WRITTEN BY A MAN,

NOT ME!!!!!

"Second stage of love for men: DECISION
decision- 1 a : the act or process of deciding b : a determination arrived at after consideration : CONCLUSION
2 : a report of a conclusion
3 : promptness and firmness in deciding : DETERMINATION
4 a : WIN; specifically : a victory in boxing decided on points b : a win or loss officially credited to a pitcher in baseball

Decisions, decisions, life is full of them. Big decisions or small decisions every decision we make can drastically alter the course of any plan we attempt to implement. With all the decisions we have to make in life, who has time to waste thinking about what kind of woman to settle down with. Life is to stressful to have to narrow down a perfect choice for a woman. And women, I am sure you have way more important things in this day and time to think about other than deciding on which MAN to choose right.
WRONG! It sounds real self assuring and excellent to our ego to say we don't spend time deciding on which man or woman would be right for us. The truth is, it may just consume a large portion of our mind, body and soul. Men, why make a decision anyway, when you can be perfectly happy with a harem of women and the only decision you need to make is your place or mine.

What goes through a man's mind when it time to make a decision on choosing a particular woman? Men have certain qualifiers and preliminaries that they feel women have to pass. She is real clean, she has a sense of humor, she is not too controlling(on the surface)and most importantly she is attempting to achieve the same things in life that you are. So what happens to men after they find a woman that has jumped that initial hurdle. I tell you what happens. The second stage of love for men kicks in. DECISION. With so many women available to men, deciding on one may be the last thing on a mans mind. But when that special lady begins to capture the heart of a man, MEN start to act strange. They begin to run out of excuses. You know all the excuses men come up with to avoid commitment. During the decision phase of a mans path towards love he starts to realize that play time is over and it is time to pick the woman of his choice. All childhood behaviors and immature views towards women begin to fade away. No longer can the man just settle for one night stands and wild flings that lead to no where. At this point, the man starts to see that the women he attracts are very serious and those women are threw with wasting time. With such a realization, this is the stage that most men rarely get past and they would rather stay within their cocoon of promiscuity and run from change and stability for more years to come.

Ladies if you get frustrated or have been hurt because you are waiting for a man to commit to you, now you know the cause. It is the mans inability to decide that is holding up your commitment plans. And can you blame men. See, men can't decide because where women see marriage and commitment men see PRISON TERMS. Instead of white picket fences, men see balls and chains. Men see the years just peeling away. Men see all their days routinely being the same. Men see marriage as one big GROUNDHOG DAY where everyday is exactly the same and happiness is a thing of the past. The way to get a man to decide to be with you is to always keep things fresh and new. Always keep the man guessing. A man will not DECIDE to settle down with you if he feels he will be trapped in the long run. A man will never be loyal to a woman if she bores him, constantly complains or is far to CONTROLLING.

I know this spells danger for all you career driven women, but if you want to make a man decide to be with you instead of one of all the other millions of fresh fish in the sea, make the decision easy for him. GIVE MEN THEIR SPACE WHILE GIVING THEM PLENTY OF ATTENTION. If you as a woman understand space and the power of being elusive, a man will make a decision to deal with you 9 times out of 10. Men are like children when it comes to narrowing down the right woman. They are like children because they want their cake and ice cream(lots of woman). And like a child you better believe they want to eat their goodies too. Most men, not all may view woman as numbers or "goodies", but eventually this view wears thin and value instead of superficiality starts to arise inside a mans mind. When it comes to this second stage of love for men, women should treat men's inability to make a decision as you would treat a child's. The more often you do that, the more you will men come around to marriage and commitment and they will no longer waste your time or act like children. Placing this demand on men and knowing how to treat them when they procrastinate will force them to grow without making them feel TRAPPED."
~~

I think he lost me at "Give men their space while giving them plenty of attention". How do you give a man space while still giving him lots of attention? I personally have always given my man plenty of freedom, but maybe too much.

I let my previous fiance go to Mexico to surf and party with his buddy for the enter weekend once a month for a few years.

Too much space= a recipe for disaster.

Lesson learned.

How much space do you give your man or

think is appropriate when you are in a committed relationship?

And, do you think men are right to worry,

is marriage really just one big GROUNDHOG DAY?

Love and light,
Christina

Photo credit: Johnny Depp from photobucket.

The Way To A Man's Heart~ The First Stage Of Love For Men Is "Chance"

2010-06-26T06:05:00.000-07:00

What is a way to a man's heart? My girlfriend and I have been having this discussion for as long as I have know her. Actually for 30 years. Why is it I always had a boyfriend or husband (but, never at the same time!) and why was she always single? What was I doing that she wasn't to snag the perfect guy? You know finding, Mr. Right, not Mr. Right now. You would think thirty years later with both our college educated and professional brains we could have figured out a solid plan of action of how to take a man to his knees and to love a gal forever. Let's take a look at the different love stages for men, starting today with stage one "Chance" to help clarify the mystery of men and what they may be thinking.

~~
THE BELOW WAS TAKEN FROM

The Five Stages Of Love

AND WRITTEN BY A MAN, NOT ME!!!!

"First stage of love for men: CHANCE
chance- 1 a : something that happens unpredictably without discernible human intention or observable cause b : the assumed impersonal purposeless determiner of unaccountable happenings : LUCK c : the fortuitous or incalculable element in existence : CONTINGENCY
2 : a situation favoring some purpose : OPPORTUNITY
3 : a fielding opportunity in baseball
4 a : the possibility of a particular outcome in an uncertain situation; also : the degree of likelihood of such an outcome b : plural : the more likely indications
5 a : RISK b : a raffle ticket

Men, isn't this world great. You can travel anywhere in the world and always be outnumbered by women. That is excellent. You can have two women, three women, four women. Heck, why not shoot for Wilt Chamberlains record and score in the hundreds and thousands. Now that is heaven isn't it? Wait a minute, if that is heaven, then every man in the world should be in bliss. For some reason as a man, I don't feel blissful. There are millions of women to choose from, but I always get the strange feeling that out of these millions of women, some of them may be dangerous for me. That's right fellas dangerous. Do we really want a women that looks good but isn't too bright upstairs. Yeah she has a gorgeous face and big breasts, but there is that voice in your head saying that I can't bring this woman home to my mother. This conflict between the SUPERFICIAL AND DEEP (SUBSTANCE) is the foundation for how men weigh or assess how he loves a woman. This foundation is called the first stage of love which is CHANCE.

Abundance in women may seem like a man's playground, but to a man it mostly ends up to be a misleading hell. As a man gets older and wiser he realizes that he can't continue to deal with women the same way as he did in his youth. With age man starts to yearn more and more for a defined sense of accomplishment. This sense of accomplishment is most often identified and polished with a woman that can be his compliment. A woman that parallels his thoughts and emotions. A woman that can help him learn and realize things about himself and his environment that he by himself could never realize. This is the woman that most men really want. However, the key words are WOMAN. NOT WOMEN. It is this singular/plural distinction that some times scares men. With all the beautiful women out there, how do you choose a women that won't tear you down and destroy all of your accomplishments? Ladies, this is the question that men ask themselves that you never hear. This is what is called RISK ASSESSMENT OR RISK MANAGEMENT. What is known as CHANCE.

Men take a tremendous CHANCE or gamble when settling with a women. Lots of fears and quiet panic attacks start to hit men of all ages when they SETTLE DOWN. Whether it is marriage or just non-contractual COMMITMENT(business partnership) men ALWAYS and I repeat ALWAYS are faced with the fact that they can no longer deal with plenty of women when they settle down. Choosing ONE out of the bunch takes serious calculations. Is she hygienic, is she smart, is she agreeable(respectful), how is she in public, is she willing to carry on a legacy for the future? To all the women, you don't hear this and may not see this acted out, but this is constantly weighed in a man's mind. When thinking about the future men don't think about breasts, we think about how can this women handle any unforeseen event that may come into our lives. When trying to define and achieve purpose in life, we don't care if the women has nice legs, we ask ourself what can she contribute to further the goals that we set for ourself. All of this deals with risk. One bad choice in when choosing a women can set a man back for years. And in one fatal decision a bad risk(chance) can blow all the work he has accomplished up until that point.

So ladies, yes men love sexy women. We love the way you smell and the way you move. Yes, we love all of that, but when choosing a mate to settle down with, WE DON'T CARE how gorgeous you are. No amount of looks is worth the chance of MISERY. It is nothing more disappointing to realize that you have chosen a good looking barbie doll that can't even begin to envision the plans you set forth for the future. The chance that men take in cutting off all the potential mates that exist is a scary CHANCE that men gamble with each and every time they deal with a women. Even having many sexual partners is a CHANCE(RISK) that claims the lives of millions of men. And yes women also take chances, but CHANCE is far less of a priority for women because women have a radar that can detect the initial value of a man within the first ten seconds. That radar is signalled by a man's shoes, by the tone of his voice, or just by the simple way the man has approached them. Unfortunately for men, our radar is a little more slanted by a women's nice frame and the GOD-LIKE symmetry of her face. With such a disparaging contrast in how the opposite sex chooses a significant other, men have a lot more assessing to do then women because well lets face it, a women's cards(bodily assets) are more visible then a mans. With such a disarming disadvantage, a man has to do a lot more piercing through a woman's veil to see who the woman is on the inside. That inner women that really makes a women shine and makes a man feel proud when she is walking side by side with him.

So next time any woman asks or questions as to why men have trouble with commitment, just remember it is not trouble, it is just the fact that settling down is by far one of men's most riskiest decisions of his life. And merging the voice of SUPERFICIAL with the voice of the DEEP(SUBSTANCE) takes time and discipline."
~~

So, what do you think? Does this ring true for you men out there or make you rethink your dating strategy ladies?
Or, does it make you shiver in anxiety about your precious children dating and what you need to teach them? I am so thankful Christian hates girls right now at the tender age of 6!

Thanks for stopping by, dear friend.
Have yourself one special day,
Christina

Fashion History, Doing It Yourself, and Breaking Stereotypes Weekly Links A' Mode~ Top Fashion Posts From The Independent Fashion Bloggers

2010-06-25T12:33:00.000-07:00

Fashion History, Doing it Yourself, and Breaking Stereotypes

Edited by: Marie Denee of The Curvy Fashionista

My first week editing the Links a`la Mode and it was such a pleasure to peruse the latest jewels from the blogosphere! Imagine viewing the history of fashion through the lens of a exhibition or a syllabus of what you wish was taught. How about taking inspiration from the latest Jeffery Campbell shoe and tricking out your own for less? Better yet, let's talk about the "nude" trend and its color classification, and while we are at it, let's question the newest movement in advertising campaigns: Unretouched and real beauty- a breakthrough or a publicity stunt? From fashion tips, finds, and favorite things, this week's links a`la mode will satiate your hunger for full frontal fashion!

Links à la Mode: June 24th

Bay Area Style File Shoptalk: Stript Wax Bar

Bonne Vie Is "nude" a problem? Or just a color palette?

Fashion Butter How to deal with the girls (dressing a larger chest)

Fasshonaburu looks back at the fashion rules she set for herself at the beginning of the year to see how's she's done following them

Fish Tank Fashion Are "unretouched" and "real beauty" advertising campaigns just a publicity stunt?

Grit and Glamour Photography for the Amateur, Stagefright-Afflicted Blogger

Hello Beauty have a new makeup lesson video with the Bobbi Brown Beach Collection and Treatment Lip Shines on hello beauty! The lesson is by Bobbi Brown education executive Katrina Rau.

Intrinsically Florrie From 50s swimwear to an 18th century duchess's wardrobe; a look at her college's fashion exhibition

Living Embellished Take a course in Fashion History...you know, what you always wished your college offered!

Lovely & Lavish With the help of a stylish scarf you can transform an everyday getup into a chic outfit, Lovely & Lavish explores this season's best accessory!

Meowsk Dressing for the playground, reminiscent of recess.

Miss Jones and Me Shares a Few of her Favorite Things

Miss Vinyl Ahoy DIY Jeffrey Campbell Tick shoes for under $20!

Profresh Style Combining prints & textures

Retro Chick Frock love: Hot picks from the world of reproduction vintage

Simply Luxurious Summer items to add to your wardrobe

Stylish Thought Everyone Loves a Quirky Girl: Examining quirky style and women who dress the part

The Coveted Under the Sea, Closeup view of Cynthia Rowley's Resort 2011 Collection

The Curvy Fashionista The opening of Full Figured Fashion Week NYC 2010

Wicked Whimsy How to build up a versatile & comfortable array of shoes

Tog and Trappings Les flâneurie: How observation of life can inspire creativity

xo,

Christina

Summertime... and the living is easy. Heather Marks as a beach bunny for July Velvet.

2010-06-19T10:41:00.000-07:00

Surfs up and the sun is out, my friends.

I'm off to the beach.

I wish I looked just half as good as Heather Marks does for July's Velvet Magazine.

Oh well, I gotta rock what the Lord hath given me and be thankful.

I know oh so well how going to the beach can be a bit nerve racking.

Let's face it. Most of us have something or somewhere on our bodies we wish would change or not be there. And, summer brings up all these insecurities.

But, what I suggest is love the body that you are in.

No one is perfect, not even the models we see airbrushed away.

What really matters is that we love ourselves. Perfect or not.

And, mostly not. I say "the heck with it" and throw it all into abandon.

We have one life to live. And, we need to it live up, everyday.

I will never look like this model. Well, not at my age.

But, what really matters is the memories that I create with my family

as we make our way through time.

You know, the stuff that REALLY matters.

What do you think?

xo,

Christina

Photographer: Enrique Badulescu for Velvet

Johnny Depp in Alice in Wonderland

2010-06-16T21:01:00.000-07:00

If you know me well, you know I love Johnny Depp and Tim Burton.

What's not to like? Let's talk about JD.

Let's face it... Johnny is mysterious, sexy, and talented.

Like I said, what's not to like?

And, yes, I am married. But, I am not dead yet.

As I watch Alice in Wonderland with my 6 year old son,

I am amazed how Johnny doesn't look like the Johnny all us gals love to see.

You know, more makeup than a pageant princess and more clothes than a nun.

Where is Johnny? I say this in the opening act. Hopefully I am turned around after finishing the film. I am sure his genius will overcome me shortly and I won't even care about seeing his gorg glams.

What do you think of the film and our beloved Johnny in it?
xo,

Christina
Ps. This film is beyond brilliant. I am happy to report my son said we must buy the DVD since it is such an amazing movie. I smile... I love when he has good taste. And, let's face it, I won't mind watching Johnny over and over! Ha.. ha..

Classic and Pretty Oscar De La Renta Resort 2010

2010-06-09T16:02:00.000-07:00

Oscar De La Renta may be old school fashion, but he showed in New York this week that he has welcomed the 21st century. He had his models holding ipads in glitzy leather holders and had the fashion show on live stream through Facebook. But, he still showed that he is staying true to his fashion beliefs and showing that more is more. I adore the quality of the fabrics, the amazing workmanship and the retro glam references. Sometimes just looking like a grown up woman in a classy dress can be stunning.

Are you an Oscar fan or of women dressing like women?

xo,

Christina

Photo credits: Coutorture

Fabulous Finds Gal

My Spread in Romantic Homes Magazine

Calm

Old School Glamour

Get Your FREE Professional WordPress Blog Site and Blog Starter Kit By May 31st!!!

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The Most Relevant Tech

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8 Simple Tips in Social Media **Suicide** Prevention by Bradley Will of The Free Blog Factory

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LINKS À LA MODE: TECH – April 5th

Your life can be abundant with or without material wealth

The Fresh Air Fund is in need of loving host families for the summer of 2011

The Secret

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Peace

"Be Mine" Belle Inspiration Magazine January 2011

Let's Ring In 2011

Winter Inspiration From Anthropologie

It Gets Better~Links A' La Mode Top Fashion Posts Of The Week

It Gets Better

Links à la Mode: December 2

The New Patchwork Chanel Bag.

The Captains Helm Creates A Unique Shopping Experience While Mixing Vintage Finds And Skate/Surf/Motor

Giving Thanks from The Independent Fashion Bloggers Links A' La Mode Top Fashion Posts Of The Week

Giving Thanks

Links à la Mode: November 25th

Victoria Beckham Is Not Just A Pretty Face, She Can Design

When Fashion Teaches You A Lesson From The Independent Fashion Bloggers Links A' La Mode

When fashion teaches you a lesson

Links à la Mode: November 18th

Belle Inspiration eMag The Enchanting Holiday Edition Launching November 15th

Your Spot Is Reserved For Dinner...

Hot Lipstick Heels On Katy Perry~ Love or Not So Much?

Fashion Blog Improvement via Links a' La Mode Top Fashion Posts By The Independent Fashion Bloggers

Fashion Blog Improvement

Links à la Mode: September 30th

Apostrophe To The Ocean

Are You A Follower Of Fashion? Links A' La Mode Via Independent Fashion Bloggers

Are You a Follower of Fashion?

Links à la Mode: September 23

The First Collection From Polish Stylist Turned Fashion Designer Marta Sililol

Working The New Season With Fabulous New Discovers~ Links A' La Mode, Top Fashion Weekly Posts From Independent Fashion Bloggers

Working the new season with fabulous new discoveries.

Influences, Impressions, and Interpretations of Fashion and what it all means

Edited by: Marie Denee of The Curvy Fashionista

Sponsor:

Now at Shopbop: Ever - LD Tuttle -DL1961 - Tapeet - IRO - MiH - Factory - Sexy Tops

xo,

Christina

Sheer Elegance

It's Time To Celebrate With A Waterman Pen Giveaway With Launch Of Belle Inspiration Magazine!

Guess Who?

Working The New Season With Fabulous New Discovers~ Links A' La Mode, Top Fashion Weekly Posts From Independent Fashion Bloggers

Fashion Designer at Home with Ann Wiberg of Trash-Couture

Countdown To Belle Inspiration Magazine Launch

La Nuit Collection of Future Vintage Trash-Couture by Ann Wiberg

Back to School They Go... With MayaLee Photography

Hearst Castle in San Simeon on the California Coast

A Breath of Fresh Air~ Anthropologie's September Catalog In Argentina

Behold Restoration Hardware's Fall 2010 Collection

"My Hair" by Mencita Monoi Angel

Belle Inspiration Magazine Launch Sept. 15th Celebrating La Joie De Vivre

Blue Creek Home To Make Your House A Home

Small in Size, But Packing A Big Punch~ Designer Nicole Gibbon's Apartment

Love, What Does It Mean To You?

DIY How To Funk Up A Vintage Record Cabinet With Cowhide

The Best Advice My Mom Ever Shared With Me...

Summertime

Lenny Kravitz's Heartfelt "Believe in Me" Song and His Unbelievable Interiors

Happy 4th of July with Lenny Kravitz's "American Woman"

Lenny Kravitz crashes the VOP Choir in New Orleans for "Fly Away" CNN. He rocks.

Want To Give Back? The Fresh Air Fund For Children Might Just Be The Perfect Way To Make A Difference In A Child's Life Today!

Why Do Men Cheat? The Third Stage Of Love For Men Is Fidelity

The Way To A Man's Heart~ The Second Stage Of Love For Men Is "Decision"

The Way To A Man's Heart~ The First Stage Of Love For Men Is "Chance"

Fashion History, Doing It Yourself, and Breaking Stereotypes Weekly Links A' Mode~ Top Fashion Posts From The Independent Fashion Bloggers

Fashion History, Doing it Yourself, and Breaking Stereotypes

Links à la Mode: June 24th

Summertime... and the living is easy. Heather Marks as a beach bunny for July Velvet.

8 Simple Tips in Social Media Suicide Prevention by Bradley Will of The Free Blog Factory