Hallelujah, it's the weekend.

As soon as Monday comes around the internal countdown to the weekend begins.  Weekends are the ish.  There is such joy in resting your head on your comfy pillow knowing you don't have to wake up and face rush hour traffic.  It is just lovely.  Lovely I tell you.  This weekend I realized that I have been totally slacking on the pictures here.  Well, real pictures with the real me (does that make sense?).  Here are two of the outfits I wore this weekend.  The first outfit was worn to a dinner date with my lover.  Too bad I didn't realize it was a little windy out (I kinda was freezing my butt off).  Dinner at 32 East in Delray Beach was uh-mazing.  Try the swordfish, it is like a food orgasm in your mouth.  No lies.  The second outfit was from earlier today.  The husband was going to the Harley Davidson store and asked if I wanted to join.  I couldn't give up the opportunity to see a bunch of gnarly bikers up close and personal (yes, I busted out the word gnarly).  I felt like it was the best opportunity to strut around with my chucks and my cute Cookie Monster t-shirt.  Because lets face it, who doesn't love the Monster?  Exactly.  There are days where casual is the way to go.  Today was one of those days.  I was even complimented at how adorable my shirt was, score!  

If you like what you see you can also follow me on Instagram.  User name: RBarbie.
I hope your weekend was fabulous, darlings!

xoxo

A special thanks to my husband who with such patience became my photographer. 

I love you!

For the bookworm.

"Part of me wanted to run away from him screaming, Fire! A more reckless part was tempted to see how close I could get without... combusting."
-Nora Grey

A SACRED OATH
A FALLEN ANGEL
A FORBIDDEN LOVE

This past summer I started reading three different supernatural series.  It started with the "Beautiful Creatures" series (which I've recommended once before) that led me to the "Hush, Hush" series which ultimately led me to the "Fallen" series (busy little bookworm).  Reading is exhilarating.  It transports me to different times and places without ever leaving the warmth of my cozy couch (comfiness does amazing things for me).  Which is why I realized that since I am yet to start a "Book Club" (which I REALLY want to do) I could give all my suggestions to you.  

Okay, "Hush, Hush". Oh, where to begin.  Like I mentioned before I started the series this past summer.  I read one book after the other.  It was like I was starving and devouring my favorite pizza (I kid you not).  Every single moment I could spare I read.  Until I realized that the last book "Finale" would only come out in October.  I nearly had a heart attack.  Um, it was only June and I had to wait till October to find out what happens next? WHAT?  Needless to say I was b-u-m-m-e-d.  Though I desperately want to divulge all the reasons why I love this series, I don't want to spoil it.  I also didn't want the series to end, ever.  Which is why it took me so long to start the last novel.  A part of me knew that once I reached the very last page it would all be over, forever (until they come out with a movie version and ruin it completely).  And, to me, the ending of a book is depressing.  I become emotionally attached to the characters.  All I want to do is wear black and mourn.  So, I did something I have NEVER done before.  I read one chapter a day, sometimes two (hardest thing I've ever done).  I told myself that I would relish every moment I had left with Patch.  This Friday when I read the last page and set my I-pad down I instantaneously felt a void.  Yes, i am quite aware of how crazy this may sound (unless you are a book worm like me, which in that case you totally understand, support group, maybe?).  Yet, there is nothing I'd rather do than read, okay, maybe I like to eat a lot too. 

So, if you like forbidden love, you like all things supernatural and cheesy is your middle name, this is the series for you.  There were moments where Patch (one of the main characters) put Edward Cullen to shame.  Edward Cullen who? 

To fill that empty space I've taken the suggestion of a friend and have started "City of Bones" which is part of the Mortal Instrument's series.  I read the first chapter last night at like almost one in the morning.  As I get a little further into the novel I will be sure to give an update.  Now, get your tush off that couch and start reading "Hush, Hush", I'd love to hear your thoughts.  

xoxo

A Griswold family kinda Christmas.

"Hallelujah, holy shit, where's the Tylenol."
-Clark Griswold

These last couple of days have been well, interesting, to say the least.  I hope you and yours had a fabulous Christmas.  Our Christmas?  Well, it was a Griswold family kind of Christmas.  In the words of the husband, "All that was missing was an explosion".  And, with all honesty he is not exaggerating.  I will spare you the details.  Santa was generous this year (he always is) and hopefully the same goes for you!  Even though my Christmas was filled with all the insanity you can possibly conjure up, it makes for a good laugh.  The kind of laugh where you giggle not to cry, seriously.  We always have next year, right? Right. I am trying not to dwell on what was and am content with what is.  Next year I will be playing hostess for a change.  And trust me family, if you think I'm bossy now, you have no idea what will be waiting for you Christmas of 2013.  Consider this a warning.
xoxo

'Twas the Nightmare before Christmas...

"Once again, we come to the Holiday Season, a deeply religious time that each of us observes, in his own way, by going to the mall of his choice."
-Dave Barry

'Twas the nightmare before Christmas and all through the month I was pulling my hair out it's not even a joke.  The holiday season is most definitely NOT all about sugar plums, candy canes and gum drops.  Pessimist you say?  No, not at all.  I'm real, honey.  Sorry to break it to you but Santa, um, he doesn't exist.  Remember Christmas of '94, that wasn't Mr.Claus stuffing your stocking with that "Dear Diary".  It was actually your overweight uncle Sal who owed your father a favor (you couldn't smell his Calvin Klein "Obsession" cologne?  Well, smack my bum and call me Rudolph!  Back to my original topic.  The holidays are nightmarish.  Christmas has been so sensationalized that its meaning has been lost.  Amongst the pine and the peppermint all that we have left are greedy, selfish and angry little elves.  Try shopping a couple days before "THE" day.  Screaming, shouting, pushing and shoving.  That last bottle of lotion that your friend Suzie doesn't need, well, you almost punched that 10 year old in the face for it.  Stop and reflect.  Suzie still has some of that lotion left over from last year, because, quite frankly, smelling like Vanilla Bean Noel all year round is just not okay.  Not okay.  Wearing your candy cane scented Chapstick, totally okay.  Instead of spending this time enjoying the presence of your family and friends we run around like a chicken with its head cut off looking for the best bargain.  Yes, giving and receiving gifts are awesome.  Yet, this is where all the stress stems from.  Is my brother going to like this?  Will my sister fit into that?  HOW MUCH HAVE I SPENT?  Oh my goodness, I guess I won't eat lunch for a week!  And, holiday fiestas?  Ugh, a headache in the making.  Hi sweet co-worker, I'm fine and the weather is great, please, stop asking me what I am going to wear to the Christmas party.  I don't know and if I did I wouldn't tell you.  And to those of you who over do it on the decorations (you know exactly who you are) listen up.  When it looks like an elf from the North Pole has puked Christmas all over every inch of your house, well, you've gone too far.  Too far.  Drop that little clothes hanger reindeer you made in the 3rd grade!  Your tree does not need another ornament.  It actually needs to have some removed, like now.  This year try something different.  Take your head out of that box of ribbons and bows, throw them up in the air, and relax.  The moment you sit down to enjoy your Christmas or Christmas Eve dinner (whichever you celebrate) all the craziness will not matter.  Your brother may not like his gift.  That shirt may not fit your sister. And, your friend may hate the scent of that over-the-top candle you bought her.  But, that is what the gift receipt is all about.  Just don't accidentally throw them away (like I do every-single-year).  And, if you want to indulge in those cute little bell shaped sugar cookies, do so, if you haven't heard stress kills.  Now, if you happen to see me at the mall during the week before Christmas just turn and walk the other way.  It's nothing personal, trust me.  But, crowded malls does not a cheery Renata make.  It's almost the homestretch fellow Christmas lovers, may the force be with you!
xoxo

So, this Christmas.  Take a step back.  Enjoy the moment and breathe.

Beautiful Creatures.

“Sixteen moons, Sixteen years
Sixteen of your deepest fears
Sixteen times you dreamed my tears
Falling, Falling through the years”

-Beautiful Creatures

This Christmas season fill a friend's stocking with the "Beautiful Creatures" series.  Now that "Twilight" is officially over it is time we move on.  Buy yourself a box of kleenex and have a good cry.  Okay, are we done?  So, moving on (I mean it), m-o-v-i-n-g o-n.  Here is another series to fill the empty void (or obsess, whatever).  Because, the whole vampire thing, well, I'm kinda over it.  I was always more of a witch, black cauldrons, black cats, pointy hats, brooms and spells kinda girl (hey, now, no judgement).  And, this series is full of that.  Well, minus the black cauldron and pointy hat thing.  It has casters and incubus' and spell casting galore.  Whoa, let me reel in the cheesy.  Oh, and they have a movie coming out next year (which I know won't be as great as the book, it never is).  However, Emmy Rossum (we know I love her) is going to be in it which makes it an automatic must see.  I started the series over the summer and it became my June obsesh.  If you aren't a fan of fantasy and fairy tales, well, this series may not be for you.  It is also a refreshing outlook on the whole forbidden love story.  Why do you ask?  "Beautiful Creatures" is written in the male perspective.  Yes, a male narrator (I needed that).  Because the only thing I'm more over than vampires, are whiny, naive, and helpless girl narrators.  I mean, enough already.  I get it, you're in love, something or someone is standing in your way, there is someone who wants to kill you, yada yada yada, put a cork in it.  So, if you are making a pitiful attempt to drown your "Twilight" sorrows head over to the book store, take out your iPad, kindle, or nook and purchase this series.  I can't promise you'll absolutely adore it (like I did) but it does make for an interesting read.  Let me know how it goes!
xoxo

A Christmas gift, maybe?

"They say it is better to be poor and happy than rich and miserable, but how about a compromise like moderately rich and just moody?"
-Princess Diana

This is perfection.  Snuggie, what?  Hook it up with a full body sweater!  Oh, come on.  You know you want one.  It may be a little strange, sure.  I mean it may freak out your mom, dad, brother, sister, spouse (it does look like a human cocoon).  But, honestly, when you're having one of those days who cares.  I don't and I know you don't either.  Seriously, where can I find me one?  Do you think they have it in magenta?  Hmm, actually black would probably fit my somber mood better.  Hopefully it isn't wool.  Wool makes me itchy.  Think about it.  Bad day at work?  Come home, take a warm shower and enter your cocoon.  Turn on the television to re-runs of "Grey's Anatomy", sip on some iced tea (spike it with vodka, no one is watching) and drown out the universe.  Moodiness be gone.  No more pulling your t-shirt (we've all done this) over your knees.  The full body sweater takes comfortable to a whole new level.  This is comfort to the max, baby.  No more sweats after work.  Full body sweater to the rescue.  With Christmas right around the corner the full body sweater would make the perfect gift, for me (I'll e-mail you my shipping address), or for your moody bestie (it's probably on her wish list).  

xoxo

Ren

The Kid Zone.

"Are you throwing a temper tantrum?” he asked with a grin. “Because this is not Toddlers and Tiaras."
-Outsider

This past weekend the husband and I took a little trip to Orlando.  You must be thinking, "The weekend after Thanksgiving?, they must be nuts."  The answer to that question is quite simple.  Nuts, yes, most definitely.  However, to be perfectly honest we went to Orlando "after" Thanksgiving last year and had an absolute blast.  So, we decided that every "after" Thanksgiving weekend would be christened with a trip to an amusement park.  Last year was Islands of Adventure.  This year was Universal Studios.  Last year the park was practically empty (at least early in the morning).  This year, well, let's just say it was barely empty (it was kids, upon kids, upon kids, upon kids).  I love kids, don't get me wrong, but, I was not prepared for what ensued.

This won't be your typical synopsis of how fabulous my time was.  Nope it is not.  It is going to be a short list of what my day at Universal taught me.  Boy, did it teach me a lot.  Prepare yourself for a treat my friends.

1.)  If you want dippin' dots at 10 o'clock in the morning get the dippin' dots at 10 o'clock in the morning.  If you wait until after lunch the cookie dough dippin' dots will be gone and you'll have to settle for cookies and cream, and, I hate settling.

2.) Brazilians are taking over the world.  Seriously.  At every turn there was someone speaking Portuguese (Brazilian Portuguse that is).  All day I kept saying, "I-SEE-BRAZILIANS".

3.) The rides you loved when you were seven are kind of boring when you are twenty-seven.  And it has nothing to do with imagination.  My imagination rocks, thank you very much.

4.) Watching a child throw a temper tantrum is like being forced to watch Rihanna, Beyonce, Katy Perry, Kesha and Lady Ga Ga on repeat for 2 hours straight.  Absolute torture.  Will someone please make it stop?

5.) Don't hold your pee.  Especially if you are about to wait in line for 45 minutes and then go on a three minute roller coaster ride.  I repeat.  Not-a-good-idea.

6.) Mothers are crazy.  Mothers at amusement parks are absofreakinlutely insane.  I needed to use the restroom.  The line was ginormous.  I was patiently waiting when this tight jean, big haired, scrunchy wearing woman rushes past me with her mini me and enters the next available stall.  Um, excuse me?  Was I just skipped in the bathroom line.  Yup, I was.

7.) You are never too old to take a picture with the fuzzy characters.  Never.  Scooby Doo, where are you?

8.) Wear sneakers.  You may look like a touristy nerd, sure, but, your feet won't feel like you walked through a maze made of bricks for 30 hours (clearly, I never follow my own advice because my feet were sore.  So, so, so very sore).

9.) In conjunction with the purchase of an amusement park pass everyone should get a complimentary stick of deodorant.  I mean, come on, has anyone heard of a shower?  Like, I don't even know where to begin.

10.) Ten year old little girls are hardcore.  I was literally pushed by a little Asian girl in the line for the "Despicable Me" ride.  Apparently she felt I wanted to take her place in line.  She had the best "stank eye" I've ever seen in my life (if looks could kill).  Note-to-self: Do not, under any circumstance, cross little Asian girls.

I can't even imagine what a trip to Magic Kingdom would be like.  However, I am always up for a challenge.  Babe, if you are reading this I know exactly where we should go next year.  Mickey Mouse here I come.
xoxo

Year Three.

"When love is not madness it is not love."
-Pedro Calderon de la Barca

Yesterday, on November 21st the husband and I made it to year number three (of being married).  Boy, has it been a crazy three years.  By crazy I mean amazing, duh.  Like Jake says in "Sweet Home Alabama", "Nobody finds their soulmate when they're ten.  I mean, where's the fun in that, right?"  He was being sarcastic, ladies, hello.  Here is the thing, the fact that Felipi and I have known each other for so long only adds to the fun.  We can talk about things we've done years and years ago and laugh.  Laugh, we do a lot of that around this house.  We laugh till we cry.  That is the secret to a happy marriage.  I'm the kinda gal with a big sense of humor.  Clearly, the way to my heart is through the giggles.  And, not a single person can make me laugh like Felipi can.  I mean, it is always better when we are laughing at him and not at me.  But, here and there I'll take one for the team.  All I can hope for is another year filled with smiles.  Thanks babe, I appreciate all that you do.
xoxo

Whoa, I am 27!

"The afternoon knows what the morning never suspected."
-Robert Frost

In honor of my 27th birthday (which is TODAY, by-the-way) I've decided to post 27 different things I've learned about life.  Some of these things may be serious, some fun, some funny and some plain crazy.  But, that's the thing with life, it's absolutely unpredictable.  And, for the sake of birthday fun I've posted some pictures of my first birthday.  It's insane that those were taken 26 years ago.

1.) Forgive.  Seriously, let go of all your grudges.  You are only tormenting yourself.  Exhale and let go.
2.) Wear sunscreen.  That whole "let's be tan" thing.  Forget about it.  Protect the skin you're in.
3.) It isn't all about the benjamins'. Promise you.
4.) Never try to put on your stalkings with your ring on.  Never.  Unless of course you are going for the "I don't give an eff' look".
5.) Laughter is the center of all happiness.  If you can't make me laugh, well, you've got to go.  Sorry I'm not sorry.
6.) As the years go by I realize how much I hate getting older.  Not because of myself as an individual, but because of my loved ones (they are getting older too).
7.) When you lose someone the pain never goes away.  Never.  You learn to live with it.  It becomes a part of you.  But it never goes away.
8.) It is perfectly okay to let your guard down.  It's far too exhausting keeping people out.
9.) Headbands are always going to give me a headache.  It doesn't matter how much I try to deny it.
10.) If you want to eat that cookie.  Eat that cookie.  I won't tell.
11.) My family is my rock.  My foundation.  They love all of me (I know this).
12.) Never go to bed mad.  Especially when you are married.  Never.  Talk it out.  I don't care that it's three in the morning.
13.) Kiss, kiss and kiss some more.  But, do it like you mean it.
14.) Shake it off.  In the end it is all little things.
15.) The most precious thing in life is time.  At the end of the road all you will yearn for is more time.  More time to laugh, more time to love, more time to live.
16.) Guys, it is absolutely not okay to go outside in your undergarments.  Under no circumstance shall you do this.  No, not even to get the newspaper.
17.) Trends are for drones.  Wear and do what you want, when you want.  Be an individual.
18.) A manicure is always a must.  Always.  No excuses.
19.) Own a doggy.  They are  the definition of unconditional love.
20.) Individuals that do not want children are not strange.  It is perfectly fine if you choose not to start a family.  Kids aren't for everyone.
21.) Wear lipstick.  Even if it is just to the grocery store.  My grandma does it and she is fabulous.
22.) Some people are just not going to like you.  Don't take it personal.  Actually, don't take anything personal (life is too short, remember?).
23.) It doesn't matter how old you are, if you want your car to smell like Christmas cookies all year round it-is-just-fine.
24.) Never stop loving.  Love. Love. Love.  Love with all the inches of your body with all the fibers of your soul.
25.) If you do have children don't name them Zipper.  You were a child once too.  And, children, they can be cruel.
26.) Never forget to leave the house without deodorant.  This is no bueno, for real.
27.) You are in charge of your happiness.  No one but you.  Seek and you shall find.

This list could probably go on and on and on.  I have learned so much over the years and continue to do so every day.  My best advice is to always be open to all the possibilities.  You will be much happier when you let go of all the expectations the world has in place (I haven't quite mastered this skill yet). All I can express is gratitude.  Gratitude for one more year of life.
xoxo

Here's Johnny...

There are four questions of value in life. What is sacred? Of what is the spirit made? What is worth living for, and what is worth dying for? The answer to each is the same. Only love.
-Johnny Depp

Hello, my name is Renata and I am addicted to Depp.

I may have mentioned in a previous post my slight obsession towards Johnny.  Okay, so slight may be an understatement.  In keeping up with my latest motto of "Keeping it Honest" let's just say that you can multiply that slight times a thousand (maybe more).  There was this one day where I decided that I would spend the entire day researching Johnny Depp (I was putting off a ton of papers I had to write).  I became enthralled in all things Johnny.  I clicked link after link after link.  It just wasn't enough.  The more articles I read about him the more I yearned for him (yes, I am crazy).  The day went by and I felt like Johnny and I had become bffs.  Seriously.  Like, I swore if I had been the back he'd seen at that hotel in Paris we would have fallen in love.  I mean, totally.  Or, if I had been a little older and had gone to his high school we'd have been high school sweethearts (delusional much? perhaps).  But, in all seriousness Johnny seems like a really amazing guy.  The kind of guy you can't help but love.  I mean when he was asked what his favorite sound was he responded by saying it was the sound of his daughter's voice.  Really, like, really?  My heart melted.  The fact that he said that he wasn't truly living until the moment he became a father.  Ugh, I just can't take it.  Plus, he played the world's most awesome pirate.  Captain Jack Sparrow rocks my socks.  I don't think I'd have star shock for anyone but you, Johnny.  Oh, and he's a Gemini.  And, I have a thing for Geminis.  Weird, I know.  And, when I found out that his wax figure was at Madame Tussauds in NYC a couple years back, well, I had to go. Below are the pictures.  Tell me, what celebrity do you dream of crossing?
xoxo

I even love the wax figure.  A girl can dream, right?

Happy Birthday, Ryan Gosling!

"Sometimes I think that the one thing I love most about being an adult is the right to buy candy whenever and wherever I want."
-Ryan Gosling

Happy Birthday, Ryan!
You are one gorgeous man (you were cute even in "Remember the Titans").  You also seem like a real cool guy (or are your looks deceiving?).  Well, in honor of Mr.Gosling's day of birth I thought I'd share one of my favorite Ryan movies, "Lars and the Real Girl".  If you've never heard of it, trust me, you must make a point to watch it.  Watch it! Watch it!  It's a real different character than the one he played in "The Notebook".  Yet, it touched a soft spot in my heart (I'm mushy gushy, sometimes, only sometimes).  I don't want to ruin it so clear your schedule!  It will make you like this Canadian just a little bit more.  Trust me, eh.
xoxo

Gastritis, you lose!

"At a party, I am the kind of girl who will wait until the end of the night before I really get going. I'm a little anti-social at first, but I'm not immune to dancing on tables either."
-Emily Vancamp

Revenge, thank you!  If it weren't for Emily Vancamp and "Revenge" these past two days would have been hell (actually they were hell, but it'd be worst).  I have spent two very difficult sleepless nights.  Yes, two whole nights of no sleep (okay, very little sleep).  Remember that whole gastritis thing I mentioned?  You know, the whole reason for going on a coffee detox?  Well, the pain caused by acid indigestion has plagued me for the past 48 hours.  I've been making an attempt to be a little more optimistic, so, with that said, I have been able to catch up on all my missed shows (woo hoo!).  Thank you stomach acid?  Um, no thank you.  I have been absolutely miserable.  Miserable.  But, that is besides the point.

If you haven't heard about the show "Revenge" I suggest you check it out.  Like, right after you finish reading this post.  Do it!  Do it!  It is awesome.  Emily Vancamp plays Emily Thorne/Amanda Clark (you have to watch to understand) so incredibly well.  I'm really not big on spoilers (I dislike when others do it to me).  However, if you are into manipulation, scheming and juicy drama this show is for you, dear.  It is packed with drama, drama, drama.  Life has been a little hectic lately at mi casa (being a working wife is tough) so I hadn't seen any of this season's episodes (crazy, I know).  Yet, what can one do when one cannot sleep?  Catch up with "On Demand", duh!  So, perhaps I shouldn't be thanking "Revenge".  I should in fact be thanking "On Demand", though I am weary to do so.  I dunno about you, but, "On Demand" here at my house only works when it wants to.  Thank goodness it worked the past two days.  I'd probably have thrown a tantrum at 3 o'clock in the morning, for real.

Back to "Revenge", watch it.  You will love it.  Madeleine Stowe (she's amazing) is a super villain.  She truly is a deadly beauty.  Oh, and it doesn't hurt that everyone on the show is pretty to look at (pinky promise).

Toodles darlings.  After a long 48 hours this girl needs to find her bed.  Though considering the impact of 11/06/2012 I find that unlikely.  Cat nap?  Sounds like a plan!
xoxo

Told you so.  Absolutely pretty people.

Bye-Bye, Latte.

"I orchestrate my mornings to the tune of coffee".
-Terri Guillemets

Good-bye, latte.  For the life of me I cannot understand the reason why my stomach rejects caffeine.  Okay, well, maybe I do understand.  Darn you, gastritis.  Acid problems, got 'em!  I'll go weeks without drinking a caffeinated latte and I slip one time, ONE time and it's done.  Like today, silly me assumed that having a regular latte would be fine (it didn't take much convincing).  It wasn't.  Not even a little.  My stomach right now, burning.  Burning, I tell you.  Tums?  Doesn't work.  Alka Seltzer?  Hasn't done its job.  The worst part is that this pain, well, it normally runs for hours only stopping at around 6:00 in the morning.  I have to be at work at 8:30.  You do the calculation.  I've made many pacts with myself.  "Renata, NO MORE COFFEE (decaf or not), ever", but I am weak.  I falter when exposed to delicious lattes.  So, here I am, once again telling myself to stay clear of those yummy french vanilla drinks.  And, I figured that if I somehow shared my plight I'd be more inclined to avoid it all together.  Because, lets be honest, this burning sensation I have in my stomach is not a consequence I'd like to pay.  It just isn't worth it.  Delicious or not, feeling sick for hours on end isn't the way I'd like to spend my Sunday.  I am making a decision.  I am making a conscious decision to stay away from all things coffee.  I am sad, yes, very sad.  But, that is it for me.  No mas!  Tomorrow begins day one of my journey to a coffee detoxification.  I'll keep you posted!  Wish me luck!
xoxo

Smell ya later, baby!

"A woman's perfume tells more about her than her handwriting."
-Christian Dior

As Coco would say, "A woman who doesn't wear perfume has no future."  Bravo, Coco, bravo!  The truest words ever spoken.  Some little girls paraded around with their mother's shoes.  I on the other hand took turns spraying all of the perfume on my mother's dresser.  Everyday a new scent.  Everyday a new me.  Perfume, it can do that to you.  It can transform you into someone you never knew you were.  A hidden you always scratching at the surface.  It can make you feel flirty and sexy and bold and daring.  Which is why I believe I haven't found my signature scent (and goodness I have tried).  How could I?  I am a person guided by her moods (like the moon, ya know?).  Each morning, each afternoon, each evening brings a new adventure.  Plus, who doesn't love a magnificently smelling woman?  And, let it be known that I am a lover of men's cologne as well, sometimes more so than a woman's perfume.  Weird, I know (it's those moods, they are cray, son!).  In the spirit of making all the women of the world smelling pretty, below are some of my absolute favorites.  Each and every one holds a little piece of my heart.  And, I am going to let you in on my little secret (lucky you).  You're welcome.  I mean, how often do you get complimented on how great you smell?  Me? Daily, darling.
xoxo

Chanel.  When it comes to perfume, Chanel does it absolutely right.
I love all Chanel, but, "Coco Mademoiselle" is my favorite.  Favorite.  Though "Chance" is a close runner up.  And, of course, "No. 5" for very special occasions.

Viktor & Rolf's "Flower Bomb" is the bomb diggity.  No effin' joke.  You must try!
Don't believe me?  Go to Sephora and buy the travel size.  You will not be disappointed.

As strange as this may sound I started wearing "Angel" in high school.  I used to tip-toe into my mother's room before school and bathe myself (well, that's what my mother claimed) in this sensual scent.  It brings back memories, sweet, sweet memories.

My mother gifted me with Prada "Candy" for my last birthday.  It was gone in less than six months, no joke.  I received compliments left and right while wearing it.  Literally, people would stop me to ask me what I was wearing.  It is that good ladies, trust me.

I was standing in line at starbucks, per usual, when the man standing in front of me turned suddenly to face me.  He had this look of awe on his face.  Needless to say, he freaked me out.  This man, the first words out of his mouth were, "I just have to tell you that you smell spectacular".  Um, thanks?  Okay, so, creepy guy totally flattered me (in a weird, please don't follow me, kinda way).

So, with "Gucci Rush" there exists a love/hate relationship.  I adore the scent it provides, but the memory it elicits, not so much.  Yet, I absolutely cannot deny its fabulousness.  Fab, fab, fab!  At the grocery line the other day the cashier stopped and asked, "What are you wearing? You smell amazing".  Yes, this is yet another one of those "must have" scents.  You'll have heads turning, no doubt.  However, it has been discontinued.  So, run, run, take your keys and hurry.   If you find it, snag it.  You won't regret it.

November, won't you stay?

"In London November isn't a month, it's a state of mind."
-Antal Szerb

Just stop.  Stop right where you are and savor this moment.  The last minutes of the first day in November.  November, the most fabulous month of the year.  With your beautiful colors and your crisp air.  Stay for awhile, please?  Bittersweet, November.  November, you bring the commencement of a new year.  A new year of life and a new year of marriage.  November, you bring along Thanksgiving and the anniversary of the day I was blessed with a little sister.  The second to last month of the year.  November, I love you.
Yeah, so, I may be a tad biased.  If you haven't figured out the day of my birth is in November.  November, you are filled with warmth.  A warmth I am unable to fully describe.  It's a feeling only felt by being surrounded by the purest form of love.  Love, it truly makes the world go round.  And, yeah, I may eat a little more this month than all the others.  Let's recap:  my birthday (cake), my anniversary (cake), my sister's birthday (more cake) and Thanksgiving (and yes, we eat cake here too).  I come from a family that finds that any occasion is an occasion for cake.  I am talking about extraordinarily delicious French cake.  From like a French bakery (if you want the deets, just ask).  Oh, yeah, amazing.  November, for you I will indulge.  It's all about feeling good, right?  Duh, of course I am right!

Let us welcome November with happiness.   November, welcome!
(I'll keep you updated on all my November shenanigans)
xoxo

Image courtesy of october-glory.tumblr.com

Taking applications for a house cleaner, takers?

"No woman gets an orgasm from shining the kitchen floor".
-Betty Freidan

Exhaustion.  That is the only word that can suffice what I am feeling at this moment.  Honestly, I can't even tell you where it stems from.  Iron deficiency, maybe?  A friend of mine said it's because I am being lazy (I beg to differ!).  She said, and I quote, "You had a good night's sleep, you can't be physically tired, you're just being lazy".  Um, excusez-moi?  I just laughed it off and asserted my original statement.  Nope, I think I just haven't had a sufficient intake of iron (that is my story and I am sticking to it).  Okay, but seriously.  How do you working mommas do it?  HOW-DO-YOU-DO-IT? Let a sister in on the secret (please?).  My world feels like it's always toppling over me.  Work, dinner, dishes (somehow I can't stop the urge of hand washing my dishes, crazy, I know), I barely have time to sleep.  Should I schedule sleep?  Like in my planner?  Soon I may have to.  Whoever decided 24 hours in a day was enough is crazy for cocoa puffs (I need like 30).  Everyday there is something left undone.  Everyday.  Right now I am pretty positive there is laundry to put away, laundry to fold, laundry to clean, laundry, laundry and more laundry.  It never ends.  Can you point me to the closest nudist colony?  The more clothes I wash the less I want to wear them.  I'm a bit extreme, and?  I am in the middle of reading two books and can't seem to find the time to finish either one of them.  When I do have time it is almost midnight (uber late for this gal).  And, to some of you night owls that may seem early, but, I need my sleep.  Particularly an uninterrupted eight hours (I hear my bed calling me now).  Is it really that horrible that I want a house cleaner?  I mean, like, I am at work five days a week, eight hours a day (life is tough, man).  Who wants to have a little get together?  Anyone up for lessons on becoming a domestic woman?  You'll clean and I'll supervise?  I am an awesome instructor, trust me, awesome.  Well, if you change your mind, let me know!

(And, even though that isn't MY bed, it is a pretty accurate description of what my bed does look like-every morning.)
xoxo

Photo courtesy of daydreamlily.com

Get Your Dirty On.

"Me? I'm scared of everything. I'm scared of what I saw, I'm scared of what I did, of who I am, and most of all I'm scared of walking out of this room and never feeling the rest of my whole life the way I feel when I'm with you. "
-Baby

Ah, this movie.  Dirty Dancing is the movie that no matter the time or day, if it happens to be on I will stop everything to watch it.  By everything I mean everything.  Like, I think I would forego a night on the town to watch it play on Lifetime.  I was the proud owner of the VHS, truth.  I made my mom watch it more times than she will admit, truth.  I used to pretend I was Baby and make my mom catch me in the pool, truth.  I had the biggest crush on Johnny, truth.  I still use the line, "Nobody puts Baby in the corner", truth.  Ugh, what can I say, movies with Patrick Swayze getting his dance on make me swoon.  And, trust me, it definitely gets better after the 700th time you've seen it.  Trust.  Lifetime, you've been slacking.  I can't even remember the last time you aired a version of "Dirty Dancing".  I feel the withdrawals starting to kick in.  Grey and Swayze were the original star crossed lovers.  Rich girl meets working-class boy, they fall in love, blah, blah, blah.  Obviously they end up together.  Then again who wouldn't stand up to their daddy when you've got a Johnny waiting for you?  Exactly.  And, though I adore this movie and its original cast, I wouldn't mind a remake.  Hmm, I can already imagine who would play my 2012 Johnny.  Who do you think would fill the shoes of Grey and Swayze?  
xoxo

Yeah, like this post WASN'T going to include the above picture.  Puh-lease.  That ending is what made the movie.

'Cause I've had the time of my life...
And I owe it all to you...

This is a Special PSA.

"A person's a person, no matter how small".
-Dr.Seuss

This is an urgent PSA (public service announcement) to all the momma's of extremely chubby children.  If your child is left with me longer than five minutes I cannot guarantee the safety of his/her chunky rolls.  If your baby has chunky legs, chunky arms, chunky cheeks, chunky hands and chunky feet I will, and I repeat, I will bite them.  I mean, who can contain themselves around such chunkiness?  I most certainly cannot.  Chubby babies everywhere are in danger of my uncontrollable desire.  It's difficult to explain and even more difficult to comprehend.  However, whenever I find myself near a chunky monkey all I can think of doing is squeezing and biting (the urge is all consuming).  A whole lot of squeezing and a whole lot of biting is all my mind can compute.  I just can't help it.  It's not as bad as you think though.  I never leave any marks, ever.  And, as for the biting, no skin is left with any indentations.  Well, there you have it, mommas.  I have forewarned you.  Do not.  I will say this again, DO NOT leave your child around me if he looks anything like the baby in the picture above.  Unless of course, you don't mind a little baby squeezing here and there.  And by a little I mean a lot (I KNOW, I KNOW, so bad).  But, come on now, leaving a little chunk monster around me unsupervised is like leaving out a box of godiva truffles around a chocoholic.  You are asking for those truffles to be eaten.  Honestly, it is all out of love.  The love of chunkiness.
xoxo

Who Is Your Doppelgänger?

Doppelgänger: A ghostly double or counterpart of a living person.

Alexandra Chando, Nina Dobrev.  Nina Dobrev, Alexandra Chando?  Which is which?  Who is who?  Okay, so obviously Alexandra Chando is to the left and Nina Dobrev is to the right.  Clearly.  But darlings you have met your doppelgänger.  Separated at birth, perhaps?  The resemblance is eerily uncanny.  Just look at them.  I mean, lookat them.  Even the smirk is remarkably familiar.  Have you ever wondered whether someone out there roaming the planet looks just-like-you?  Kinda freaky, isn't it?  I mean, think about it.  Somewhere in this vast universe there may be a someone who some may say is your long lost twin.  You know, the whole, "Wow, you two look like you were separated at birth" sort of thing.  I don't know about you but I sorta think about this quite often.  What if there is a girl that looks exactly like me? Where does she live?  What is she like?  What life path has she chosen?  Or, better yet, what path has life chosen for her?  This notion of a being with the same physical traits as you walking the Earth boggles my mind.  I did always want a twin sister.  Oh, the havoc we could have wreaked.  It would have been marvelous.  However, I am still on the look-out for my double mint twin.  Personally, I don't think I resemble anyone.  I have that whole unique thing going on (at least I'd like to think so).  Do you have a celebrity look-alike? If so, please, do share!
xoxo

Louboutins, Thanks, But No Thanks.

"A good shoe is one that doesn't dress you but undresses you.  So if a woman is naked, and wearing shoes, she should still look nude."
-Christian Louboutin

The Ziggles.  Yes, the Ziggles is the one reason why I turn down the shoe with the shiny red sole.  Don't understand?  Well, the adorable ball of fluff I call Ziggy Marley has a thing for shoes (and I don't mean wearing them).  Not any kind of shoes.  Not the husband's shoes.  No, that would be too much, I dunno, luck?  Ziggy only likes my shoes (and by like I mean likes to eat).  I've lost count as to how many shoes have perished at the ferocious jaws of the Ziggle monster.  Seriously.  You'd think I would have learned my lesson after the first, second,third pair of shoes, right?  Yeah, no (bad habits die hard?).  I still continue to leave my babies lying around.  I'll come home after a long day of work take off my heels only to find that the moment I do Ziggy comes and snatches them up.  He then proceeds to run around the house shoe in mouth as his teeth sink in the outer covering.  And, honestly, do I really want to see $800 bucks be used as a chew toy? The answer would be no.  No, I would not.  Because you see, at the end of the day, a shoe is just a shoe (even if it costs about as much as what you may pay for rent).  And, shiny red sole or not, I'd probably leave them at the edge of the stairs as well.  Just waiting for Ziggy to find them.  And, considering Ziggy has a nose for the finer things in life it'd be safe to say he'd go for the Louboutins before my Havaianas.  I've taught him well.  

xoxo 

Hello there, Mr.President.

"To stand in silence when they should be protesting makes cowards out of men."
-Abraham Lincoln

Photo courtesy of my friend, Rola.  She had an awesome view.

Don't worry.  This isn't going to be a post dedicated to flaunting my political stance.  No, no, and no.  Democrat, Republican, Left, Right, Blue, Red, tonight, at this very moment it does not matter.  Lincoln said, "The time comes upon every public man when it is best for him to keep his lips closed."  Well, said Abraham, well said.  So, don't get your panties in a twist.  You can keep your opinion and I will keep mine (to myself).

But today was a day unlike any other (I just had to share).  Barack Obama had a rally in my backyard (obviously not literally).  Mr.President had a post-debate rally at the Tennis Center in Delray Beach, Florida.  I woke up at five this morning, grabbed my ticket and headed out the door.  Yeah, I waited in line for quite sometime.  Yeah, I almost had my foot run over by some careless driver.  Yeah, I still had to go to work after it was all said and done.  Yeah, I am literally a walking zombie (I am not even sure how I haven't fallen face first on my lap top).  Yet, despite all of my exhaustion, it was absolutely worth it.  The energy that surrounded us in that tennis center was undeniably the most exhilarating sensation ever.  Ever.  The momentum made the exhaustion disappear (I wish I could say the same once I sat at my desk).  And, come on.  He is the president of our country, it was an honor to witness history unfolding itself before my eyes.  Trust me when I say this, they weren't lying when they said he could, "Fire it Up".  Because, darlings, we were fired up.  True story.

Barack Obama you rock!

I've said this before and I will say this again, my opinions belong to me and me alone.  I am in no way whatsoever making an attempt to persuade you otherwise.  My father always said there were three topics never  to be discussed; religion, sports and politics (at least not in public).

Dreamland awaits me.
xoxo

A Spoonful of Vinegar.

"When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change."
-Wayne W. Dyer

Vinegar, on my face?  Come again?  It took me some time to wrap my mind around this notion that vinegar could be used as toner.  And, since I am totally for trying new things (totally) it seemed like a grand idea.  Organic apple cider vinegar, how bad could you be?  Of course I only made this decision upon reading many, many, many reviews.  And those reviews were raving.  It seemed that I was out of the loop (I could not believe it).

Apparently, apple cider vinegar has amazing health benefits.  Not only can it be used to clear skin blemishes, but, you can drink it.  Yes, drink it.  Apple cider vinegar can be used as a remedy for heartburn, to improve bowel irregularity, helping the body to breakdown fat instead of storing it and it helps to alleviate joint pain & stiffness.  Basically, this stuff is pretty amazing.

So, one afternoon I made the decision that I would incorporate apple cider vinegar as a part of my daily skincare routine.  Yup.  Yes, I did.  And, I used it for a couple of weeks (it was great).  Until one day my sweet husband told me I smelled like a salad.  Yes, a salad.  I must admit, the strong scent is a bit difficult to grow accustomed to.  I caught myself spraying a tad bit more of Coco Mademoiselle in the mornings to mask the odor (it didn't work).  So, as quick as it came, it went.  Though, I must say, it did seem to be working.  And if you can get past smelling like lunch you should definitely try it.  Give it a week, a month, two months, your skin will thank you.  I for one had to say adios.  I much prefer my husband's kisses.
xoxo

Um, how do you spell that?

"I was not particularly bright, I wasn`t very athletic, I was a little too tall, odd, funny looking, I was just really weird as a kid."
-Uma Thurman

Uma Karuna Thurman, it does not matter one bit what you looked like as a "kid".  Because, darling, look at you now.  You are beautiful.  However, this is absolutely not about your physical beauty.

Okay, so, aside from giving birth I truly believe that naming a child is the most difficult thing ever.  Ever.  Like, I am not so sure how I feel about taking on the responsibility of giving a human a name he/she must live with for the rest of his/her life.  Yeah.  Okay.  So, you can totally get a name change as an adult.  But, those formidable years, you are stuck with whatever odd/crazy/weird/plain/normal moniker your parents chose for you.

Ugh.  Such a terrible feat.  And, that is where Ms.Thurman comes in.  What is it with celebrities, actually, people and naming their children these kooky names. Have you heard what Uma named her daughter? Well Rosalind Arusha Arkadina Altalune Florence Thurman-Busson (what a mouthful), welcome to the world.  You will have some fun learning to spell your name in kindergarten.  My question is, was that necessary?  Probably not.  And my dad thought having three names was too long (thus why I do not have a middle name).  Clearly, he was not up with the times.  Man, does that make me like un-cool or something?  The more names the more personalities bestowed upon you?

Yet, Uma is not the only one.  And, it isn't just celebrities.  This year alone there have been names such as Future, Cougar, Moo and Eh given to babies around the nation.  Eh?  Like, are you for real?  I'd ask to be home schooled.  And, to think, that at one time I thought being named Renata was weird.  Is it about being eccentric?  Or is it just about wanting to one-up the crazies before you? Then again, you could have been born into the Zappa family.   Diva Thin Muffin Pigeen, where are you?

xoxo