Sunday Shorts

Hudson Jeans

Style Shout Out to Sunday and keeping it relatively short...

It's going to be triple digits here again today which will make it day number 30 of temperatures of at least 100 degrees.  Since we got back from Los Angeles it's just been too hot.

If it's too hot in your area to be outside, it may be a good day to check out the Nordstom Anniversary Sale and stay inside. Today is the final sale day and tomorrow prices go up.

This year I found a few great pieces like these Hudson "Baby Boot" jeans. They have a fabulous skinny fit with just the slightest boot cut which makes them very versatile.

True Religion's "Julie" is a great skinny jean with a great fit but not so tight in the leg which makes them so comfy.

Stuart Weitzman

J Brand had some amazing skinny jeans that sold out in my Nordstrom rather quickly.  But check out your Savvy department as you may be lucky enough to find a pair.

And how can you talk about the Anniversary Sale without mentioning shoes?  And how can you mention shoes without mentioning Stuart Weitzman?

If you are in the market for a classic black patent leather peep toe with a modern twist check out "Palace" and as far as boots, the "Cadet" is this year's version of the oh so popular and much sought after 50/50.  This boot looks fabulous with skinny jeans, dresses or skirts.  The low heel makes it not only stylish, but super comfortable.

Happy Shopping!

You Don't Need To Convince Me

Style Shout Out to Vince...and Nordstrom!

Vince At Nordstrom

It is seriously hot here again today.  I think we're in the process of setting some kind of record for consecutive days with temperatures of at least 100 degrees.

So what to do on a morning when there is nothing to do outside?  Well, if your hubby's working from home, your 8 year old is sleeping, it's almost your birthday and your driver's license is about to expire, you go to the DMV....which is exactly what I did earlier this week.

As I pulled into the parking lot the line of people was already halfway around the building and it was already 92 degrees.  But I had no choice other than to wait in the line as our DMV does not make appointments and I was unable to renew on line.

Long story short...two and a half hours, and two bottles of water later, I got home.  After lunch my daughter and I headed to Nordstrom which is a much cooler place on a hot summer day than the DMV. The Anniversary Sale ends July 31st and I wanted to pick up some ballet flats for my 8 year old.  We found the perfect pair that will transition from summer to fall and then headed to Savvy.

As we walked into the department I was greeted by the most fabulous jacket.  As I slipped this jacket on the sales associate said, "It looks like it was made for you!"  To which I replied, "You don't have to convince me..."

If you are in the market for a leather jacket, look no further than Vince.  The motorcycle jacket on Anniversary Sale at Nordstrom is amazing.  The fit is fabulous and the leather is buttery soft. This jacket has found it's way onto my birthday wish list so I'll keep you posted on whether it makes it into my closet.

This jacket will look great with skinny jeans tucked in tall boots and a fab but fitted turtleneck.  I recently found one by Vince at Saks.

My Style Shout Out Tip:  A leather jacket is a great investment piece so make sure the fit is fabulous!  And remember, the Nordstrom Anniversary sale ends July 31st and prices go up August 1st!

7 Fabulous Things

Style Shout Out to Thursday and 7 things.

On Tuesday I wrote about jewelry designer Kara Ackerman and so today I thought I would share my 7 favorite things from her amazing collection.  Believe me making this list was the most difficult 7 Things that I have written because she has so many beautiful designs.

1.  Brooke Knot Leather Bracelet.  I recently ordered this bracelet and am checking my mailbox every day in anticipation.  It's just such a fun piece and reminds me of the time I spent in Southern California, guitar in hand, writing songs and singing at the beach.

2.  Everyone could use a Friendship bracelet.  I ordered a few of these in turquoise for my daughter as she wanted one for herself and a few for some very special people.  Of course after I placed the order she said, "Oh, Mommy the multi-colored one would look so awesome with the turquoise."  So I see another order in my very near future. And if the truth be told I'm looking at the Brooke Knot in another color too.

3.  This GemGirls Initial 14kt Charm with in set diamonds is such a classic piece.  I love necklaces that make a statement yet have simplicity.  This necklace fits the bill for me perfectly.  Get it with your own initial or, if you're a Mom, wear the initials of your children.

4.  These Lilly Stackable Bangles are great for summer and beyond and the price will seriously leave you with enough to pick up a few Friendship Bracelets.  Mix and match and have some fun.  

Colbie Caillat 

5.  The Talulah Necklaces, as seen on Colbie Caillat, are so fabulous and versatile. You can wear them together or alone or order one and layer it with pieces you already own.  I think the 36 inch Talulah necklace would look amazing with the Initial Charm Necklace.  Again it goes to my love of all things simple and classic.

Cameron Diaz

6.  The 2 inch 14kt Gold Vermeil hoops, as seen on Cameron Diaz, are a classic that every one should have in their jewelry box.  I live in hoops as I feel they can go from day to evening with ease.

7.   The GemGirls Diamond Initial Charm Bracelet is on my list for it's beautiful design.  As a Mom the thing I really love about this and the Initial Charm Necklace is that you can order either piece with the initial of your daughter.  You can wear it when she is little and then give it to her when she is old enough.  I absolutely love pieces that have sentimental value. Besides making it on to my 7 Things list today, I think this one may also make it onto my birthday wish list!

My Style Shout Out Tip:  If you are not familiar with Kara Ackerman check out her web site before August 15th as she is running a promotion with People Style Watch magazine and you can save 20%.  Also if you are in New York this morning don't forget about Kara Ackerman's sample sale! Happy Shopping!

2 Treasures On Tuesday

Colbie Caillat
wearing Kara Ackerman's Talulah Necklace

Style Shout Out to Fashion Wrap Up and Kara Ackerman for all of the fabulous!

When you're a Mom you find yourself doing a lot of things for your children and if you read my blog regularly then you know that the reason I started writing again is to be a good role model for my 8 year old.  I want her to grow up knowing that she can do anything, at any age.

My daughter is also the reason I tweet. You see there were stars she wanted to follow like Ashley Tisdale, Brenda Song, Madison Pettis, and most recently Colbie Caillat.  My hubby and I felt that 8 was a bit young for tweeting, so we set up a Twitter account and I follow for her and relay the news of the day. As parents we have perfected the art of compromise.

While I started using Twitter because of my daughter, I quickly realized that this is quite a powerful tool for communicating a quick message.  Having had a career in marketing I can see the positive impact and am grateful that my daughter brought Twitter to the table because if I hadn't been tweeting, I may never have found two great treasures...

1.  Fashion Wrap Up.  This on-line magazine, launched by Christy Pastore, is a fabulous mix of all things fashion and celebrity.  I check in daily while I am having my morning cup, or cups, of coffee and always look forward to seeing what they have chosen as the video of the day!

What I love about Fashion Wrap Up is that in addition to delivering information there is an element of fun. This on-line magazine embodies the American spirit...that if you have passion and drive you can build your own business doing something you love to do.  In the July issue there is a great interview with Kara Ackerman which brings me to my second treasure for today.

Kara Ackerman's Friendship Bracelets

2.  Kara Ackerman designs jewelry that is fresh and creative and I love that her fabulous pieces are available in a wide price range so there truly is something for everyone.

Right now she is running a promotion through People Style Watch magazine where you can receive 20% off your purchase.  I ordered a fabulous Brooke Knot Leather bracelet and some Friendship bracelets for my daughter.  The Friendship bracelets make phenomenal gifts so I am thinking that I may have to order a few more before they sell out.

If you are fortunate enough to be in New York City, Kara Ackerman is holding a sample sale. It was mentioned in the New York Post so get there early for some fabulous deals on some fabulous jewelry.  If I were still in NY I would be at the sale this week...happy shopping.

Kara Ackerman's Lilly Bracelets

My Style Shout Out Tip:  Jewelry makes a fabulous statement and summer is a great time to layer some bracelets and have some fun.  I love an armful of gold bangles and the way the summer sun glistens as it hits the gold.  And quality bracelets don't have to be super expensive to give you an expensive look.

Sometimes Less Is More

Style Shout Out to Katsuya in Brentwood...

On Thursdays I write about 7 things.  There is no specific planning that goes into the list.  It literally just unfolds as I sit down with my Mac.  Last week as we were winding down our vacation in Los Angeles I thought it very fitting to write about 7 of my favorite things in LA.  In that blog post I mentioned that if I had an 8th and 9th on my favorite things list they would be Katsuya and The Ivy...and that they were stories for another time.

So today is that other time and while it is still 100 degrees and while my vacation memories are still fresh I thought I would take today to give a big Style Shout Out to Katsuya.  This fabulous Japanese restaurant has some of the most amazing sushi and an environment that is both relaxed and sophisticated.  I applaud the designers for creating such an inviting space that is a great example of "less is more."

While we were waiting for dessert, which just happened to be the most delicious chocolate confection, my 8 year old said she needed to visit the ladies room.

As we were walking in to the ladies room the door opened and I nearly ran into none other than Julianne Moore who has been a favorite actress of mine since she starred with Hugh Grant in Nine Months.  She was very low key yet very stylish in classic jeans and a dark top. So what do you say when you almost literally run into Julianne Moore in Katsuya with her daughter, while you are walking with your own daughter? You smile and say, "Hey."

Why?  Because she is having dinner with her family and you don't want to be intrusive. Sometimes less really is more.



My Style Shout Out Tip:  If you are in Brentwood visit Katsuya for a fabulous evening.  I hear the Hollywood location is just as good.  And make a reservation so you're guaranteed a table without the long wait!

7 Cool Things

Style Shout Out to 7 things on Thursday...

It's another day with temperatures of 100 degrees.  I can't remember the last time we had a summer like this...it is just too hot.   So while it's hot, here are my 7 things to keep you cool.

Malibu Beach Inn

1.  If you're in LA head to the Malibu Beach Inn for lunch and relax under an umbrella while keeping cool and enjoying the breathtaking views.  This is one of my favorite places in Los Angeles...the food...the service...the view are all absolutely fabulous!

Evian at Nordstrom

2.  If you're not in LA, where the temperatures have been enjoyable compared to other areas of the country, pick up some Evian Spray Mist.  I was skeptical when I first saw this product in the beauty department of Nordstrom and then in Sephora.  But one spray and I got it. This product is a quick skin refresher and also comes in handy when you are travelling as it is a great hydrator to combat the dry air on a plane.  For me it has become a warm weather must have item.

LnA

3.  Looser fitting tee shirts that still offer great style and great fit are also one of my summer must have items.  LnA makes some fabulous tee shirts that will take you from summer to fall in style.  I wear mine all summer long with shorts and when the weather finally cools off they look great with a leather jacket and jeans.

RayBan at Nordstrom

4.  Don't forget the shades.  I have a few favorites but my Ray Ban aviators are awesome for summer because they are so lightweight and offer great protection from the glare of the sun's summer rays.  They are simply a cool classic that will never go out of style!

Neutrogena Cooling Mist Sunscreen

5.  Neutrogena Cooling Mist sunscreen.  It sprays on quick with a burst of cool as it hits the skin.  I am a fan of this product because it offers great protection from the sun and doesn't feel too greasy.  It's just as good while running around the city as it is for sitting on the beach.

Kara Ackerman Bracelet

6.  It won't help you cool off but it will add to your cool factor.  I love Kara Ackerman's Brooke Knot Leather Bracelet.  I first saw it on Colbie Caillat and thought it was a perfect bracelet for those relaxed summer days and it is a piece that can transition from season to season as easily as those LnA tee shirts.  I love how the bracelet is an artful combination of materials and with black, chocolate brown and tan leather there is a color to suit every one.

Colbie Caillat at Amazon

7.  And again, my 7th thing won't actually keep you cool but it is a must have CD for your summer playlist.  Colbie Caillat's "All Of You" is filled with songs that put a smile on your face and it's the type of music that transports you to the beach.  It is rare to find a CD that you listen to start to finish and actually love every song.  For me, this is that rare CD.



My Style Shout Out Tip:  Have fun keeping cool this summer and seriously pick up Colbie Caillat's CD for some cool summer songs and Kara Ackerman's bracelet for some instant summer cool.

Tuesday Treasure - 2 Things

Style Shout Out to 2 things on Tuesday...

I have to admit I have not quite gotten back into the swing of things since getting back from Los Angeles last Thursday.  Since it is like our 15th or 16th day with temperatures of at least 100 degrees, I am going to use the heat as an excuse and I am going to focus on cooler things.  And when I think cool...I think LA.  And, not just because the city itself has a "cool" vibe, but because the summer temperatures are so much cooler and you can actually enjoy being outside.

So today if you are fortunate enough to be in LA check out these treasures:

1.  Caffe Luxxe at the Brentwood Country Mart.  They have a few other locations but this is my favorite.  It is just so relaxed and a great place to sit outside with a good book, have a few laughs with family and friends, or read the latest issue of InStyle. And, the cappuccino and the biscotti are truly amazing.  Seriously I love how they create artwork in a cup.

2.  Barney's is this burger place in the courtyard of the Brentwood Country Mart, and like Caffee Luxxe, it is a little treasure.  Barney's also has other locations but I am partial to this one.  I love how you order your burger at the window, take a seat at one of the picnic-style tables and wait for the most fabulous burger and fries.  And being LA, they also have a variety of vegetarian burgers which are just as fabulous. The atmosphere is so relaxed and casual which is what I love about the Brentwood Country Mart and the city of LA in general.



My Style Shout Out Tip:  If you are visiting LA this summer make sure to check out all of the treasures at the Brentwood Country Mart including the James Perse store which sells the most amazing and soft tee shirts.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Style Shout Out to Nordstrom and their Anniversary Sale.

We got back from Los Angeles last Thursday and, if I'm being honest, coming back to temperatures over 100 degrees was pretty tough.  So what to do when it's too hot to be outside...you head to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and shop for Fall which conjures up images of cooler weather and football.

To be honest, the mall is usually the last place I like to go on a weekend after a vacation but it seriously was so hot it was either the movies or Nordstrom.  And, Nordstrom won the family vote.

So, Saturday we headed to the sale and it did not disappoint.  I found the cutest things for my daughter for school and some great birthday presents for my hubby.  His favorite was a Burberry shirt not because he is British, which he is, but because our 8 year old picked it out for him because she said blue is his favorite color.

Now, after shopping in Men's and Kid's it was time to check out the Women's department. So my hubby and daughter went to the Nordstrom cafe for sweet treats, namely cake and cookies, and I checked out some sweet treats of my own...even sweeter because they were the no-calorie kind.  I found some amazing Hudson Jeans at an amazing price...a great sweater by Vince...shoes by Stuart Weitzman...and RayBan Sunglasses.

Despite the crowds it was a great Saturday because I got to spend time shopping with my family and we had a lot of laughs.  And, for me, the laughter is what makes a day truly great!



My Style Shout Out Tip:  Check out the Nordstrom Anniversary sale today because it ends July 31st and some of the best pieces go quickly.  Seriously I saw a fabulous pair of skinny J Brand Jeans and they were totally sold out in my size!

7 Things In LA

Style Shout Out to 7 Things...

Normally I set aside Thursday for 7 things but we got home from Los Angeles yesterday and there just wasn't quite enough time to sit down and write.  So today here is my list of 7 things I love in LA!

Malibu Lumber Yard

1.  The Malibu Country Mart and the Malibu Lumber Yard are fabulous places to shop, eat and relax.  I love the fact that there are so many great shops all in one area.  So if you are in LA take a scenic drive out to Malibu and enjoy the shopping and stop by some of my favorites...7 For All Mankind, Oliver Peoples, Tory Burch, Intermix, Alice + Olivia, J Crew, and Kitson!  For some of the best gelato and cappuccino check out the Chocolate Box Cafe and if you're in the mood for some sushi there is the well-known Nobu.

View From The Malibu Beach Inn

2.  The Malibu Beach Inn has the most awesome view of the Malibu Pier and the Pacific.  If you are looking for a way to spend a relaxing afternoon check out their outdoor patio for a delicious lunch.  Seriously, this boutique hotel is truly amazing.

Cappuccino At Caffe Luxxe

3.  The Brentwood Country Mart is another great way to spend an afternoon.  My daughter describes the burgers at Barney's as the best burgers in LA...and the fries are pretty good too.  I love the fact that the post office sells Tretorn sneakers and the most fabulous navy and white stripe tops from France.  I also love that they have James Perse for those oh-so-soft tee shirts and Space NK for some very on-trend and sometimes hard to find cosmetics. If you are at the Brentwood Country Mart make sure to grab a cappuccino from Caffe Luxxe...this is some serious coffee and it tastes as good as it looks!

Fountain At The Grove

4.  The Grove in LA which is adjacent to the Farmers Market is a fun and unique shopping experience. Hosted by Mario Lopez, Extra tapes their show from the fabulous fountain area of the Grove so you never know what celebrities you might run into.  I love that  Nordstrom, Zara, Splendid and Barneys are all in one place.  For a great lunch or dinner check out Morels French Steakhouse and Bistro with their view of the fountain and for a quick breakfast or lunch with the kids Marmalade Cafe offers a menu filled with variety. Personally, no trip to the Grove is complete for me without a cappuccino from Coffee Bean.

View From Shutters

5.  Shutters is a beautiful hotel on the beach in Santa Monica.  If you get there before 11:00am you can usually snag a table on the terrace overlooking the beach and the Pier and enjoy some quiet reading time while soaking up the sun.  If you have time while at Shutters enjoy lunch at Coast...I recommend any of the salads.

 From RodeoDrive-bh.com

6.  Rodeo Drive is to Los Angeles what 5th Avenue is to New York.  With up-scale stores like LouisVuitton, Cartier, Gucci, Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana, Rodeo Drive is a fun place to see and be seen.  Need I say more!

Caprese at Villetta

7.  And last but definitely not least is Villetta! I cannot say enough about this beautiful and unique Italian Restaurant across from the Brentwood Country Mart.  Being Italian I find myself very critical of Italian food when I am eating out and Villetta offers that rare dining experience where everything is truly outstanding.  From the pizza that tasted like the pizza my grandmother used to make in her New York kitchen to the home-made pasta that is made fresh daily, Villetta is the place to go for fabulous food and service.  My 8 year old daughter said, "Everyone is so nice they really do make you feel like family."  Thanks to Greg, Lila and Tony for a truly memorable dining experience.  If you're near Brentwood (and even if you're not, it's worth the drive) go to Villetta and order the Caprese salad, the Margherita Pizza and the Spaghetti al Pomodoro...Buon Appetito!

My Style Shout Out Tip:  The next time you are in LA check out my list and make one of your own.  And if I had to add an 8th thing it would be lunch at The Ivy on Robertson and 9th would be sushi at Katsuya in Brentwood...but those are both stories for another day.

Tuesday Treasure - Malibu

Style Shout Out to two of my favorite places in Malibu...

1.  For me, The Malibu Beach Inn is the ultimate relaxation destination in the Los Angeles area.  Sitting on the patio overlooking the Pacific as the waves crash against the shore is just about the best way to spend a summer's day.

Today I had the most fabulous lunch with my hubby and daughter and as always we had a lot of laughs.  Any time I get to spend time at the beach I am appreciative and happy.  And any time I get to spend time at the beach in Malibu with my family I am especially happy.

2.  The Malibu Country Mart is a fabulous place to shop, eat and relax.  Even my hubby who does not enjoy shopping always enjoys this shopping trip.

When I'm in Los Angeles I like to spend as much time outside as possible because I know at home the temperature is 100 degrees and it's all about the indoors.  The Malibu Country Mart has some of the best shops and it's all about the outdoors.

I seriously have so many favorites like Oliver Peoples, Intermix, True Religion, Tory Burch and of course 7 For All Mankind.  My daughter's favorite is Kitson and I have to admit I love this store too and wish we had one at home.

And my hubby's favorites aren't stores at all...Nobu for fabulous sushi and the Chocolate Box Cafe for the best Nutella ice cream and cappuccino.  Seriously, I am normally not a fan of chocolate ice cream but this is truly amazing!

So the next time you're in LA take a trip out to Malibu and check out the Malibu Beach Inn and the Malibu Country Mart...such a great way to spend a day!




My Style Shout Out Tip:  You don't have to stay at the Malibu Beach Inn to enjoy a fabulous dining experience on their patio with the most amazing views!

Sunday Shorts

Style Shout Out to Sunday and keeping it short.

We got to Los Angeles on Friday and I must admit it's so good to be back.  Besides the fact that it's 20 degrees cooler here than it is at home, there are so many things I love about this city and the number one on my list is spending time with our family which is what we are doing today.

Heading out to the Brentwood Farmer's Market and then to Sweet Lady Jane for some sweet treats.  If you are in LA or Santa Monica my sister says this is a place you must visit and I totally agree.  My daughter is already looking forward to having her favorite chocolate croissant!

I hope you all have a fabulous day.

Happy Anniversary Sale

Style Shout Out to Nordstrom and their Anniversary Sale.

The countdown is officially on...the Nordstrom Anniversary sale catalog arrived in my mailbox and the perusing of the pages has begun.

Maybe it's the fact that the catalog is tangible...you know the feeling of turning each crisp page to see what fabulous items will be featured.  In some ways it brings me back to my childhood when the JC Penney Christmas catalog would come in the mail and my sisters and I would sit at the kitchen table with cups of hot chocolate, pens in hand, circling our favorite toys.

Now don't get me wrong I love shopping on line but there is still something about the print medium that draws me in.  So today I am sitting with a cup of coffee, pen in hand, ready to circle my favorite items as my daughter sits down and says, "I have my pen Mom...where's the kid's section!"


My Style Shout Out Tip:  The Anniversary sale is a great time to pick up fabulous things for fall and winter at fabulous prices.  I know it seems early but this is also a great time to do some back-to-school shopping.  And if you work with one of Nordstrom's personal shoppers it will make your shopping trip fun and fast.

7 Things

Giada Book Signing

Style Shout Out to 7 things on Thursday...

This week is flying by mainly because of the 4th of July weekend, and also due to the fact that my daughter and I have so much fun during summer break from school.  So today here are my 7 things to create summer fun that don't involve the beach since we longer live near one...

1.  Bake...it may be over 100 degrees outside but my 8 year old and I still love to spend time in the kitchen baking brownies (I get a little help from Betty Crocker) and trying out new recipes from Giada DeLaurentiis and Claire Robinson.  I can't tell you how much laughter comes from the kitchen when we are creating what we think are culinary masterpieces.

2.  Games...amazing that Monopoly was popular when I was a kid and is still so popular today.  My Mom and Dad always say that the classics never go out of style. They were talking about shoes and bags but I think this applies to everything.

3.  Play...too hot for tennis outside so we play Wii tennis and we have just as many laughs inside as we do when we play outside.

4.  Visit...my daughter likes to visit my parents and her cousins.  It is so much fun for me to see her having so much fun with them.

5.  Listen...we have so much fun together because as my daughter was learning to talk at eleven months old, I was learning to listen and I still continue to listen.

6.  Shop...summers here are so hot that sometimes the mall is the best place to cool off and shopping with my daughter is always a fun experience as she has a strong sense of style and is not afraid to share her opinion.

7.  Sing...most of all we love to sing and summer is a great time to pick up a guitar and sing a few covers and write a few songs.


My Style Shout Out Tip:  Today make your own list of 7 fun things to do in the heat of the summer.

Last Call...First Stop

Style Shout Out to Last Call by Neiman Marcus.

Last Saturday we ran out to do a few quick errands which turned out to be a few long errands as it seems that everyone else in   our area had the same idea...to do a bit of shopping since it was literally over 100 degrees and way too hot for outdoor activities.

Our last stop was Last Call by Neiman Marcus.  We hadn't been there in a while.     If I'm being honest I always seem to forget about Last Call because of its' location and my hubby says that I say the same thing every time we walk through the doors and I see the merchandise and the prices..."Why has it been so long since we've been here?"

Any way, the store was packed and as we looked around I realized why.  I found the most fabulous Stuart Weitzman wedges, Splendid red and white stripe top and True Religion white capri jeans at 20% to 40% off.   This outfit is so cute it is definitely making it's way into my suitcase for our trip to Los Angeles.

Maybe the next time we head out I'll make Last Call my first stop!

My Style Shout Out Tip:  When shopping places like Last Call, Nordstrom Rack and Loehmann's give yourself enough time because there are treasures to be found if you take the time to look. Funny, because this is what I tell my 8 year old every day...you'll be amazed with what you'll see if you stop and take the time to look.

Tuesday Treasure - Fireworks

Style Shout Out to July 4th!

There is just something so magical about fireworks...The way they illuminate the sky with their beautiful colors and that loud ka-boom that makes kids put their hands over their ears while watching in awe and smiling from ear to ear.

We spent the 4th with family and watched the fireworks in our town.  My daughter was so happy because she got to spend time with her cousins and grandparents and we also ran into one of her friends from music school which added to the fun.

As I watched the kids, my daughter included, watching the fireworks choreographed to Bruce Springsteen's "Born In The USA" and Lee Greenwood's "God Bless The USA" I have to admit I had tears in my eyes realizing just how fortunate we are to raise our kids in a land where there is freedom and so much opportunity.

Driving home I asked my daughter if she had a favorite part of the day.  She replied, "Seeing my family and friends and the fireworks were awesome...celebrating freedom is great Mom!"

I hope all of you had a fabulous 4th and enjoyed time with family and friends and, of course, the fireworks!

Happy 4th

Penny Black Cuff Links at Nordstrom

Style Shout Out to celebrating the 4th...

Besides spending time with family and friends I always use this day to have a conversation with my daughter about the importance of freedom and choices.  I think it is so important that she understands how fortunate we are to live in a land of opportunity where dreams can become reality with hard work and a positive attitude.  It's important that she never take for granted the freedoms that come by birth and that she understands that for many people freedom comes with leaving everything that is familiar to basically start a new life.

Last year when she asked me if I knew anyone who came to this country to make a better life I answered, "Yes sweetie I do, and his name is Daddy."  And that's a story for another day when I have more time.

Happy 4th!

My Style Shout Out Tip:  Sometimes it is the unexpected accessory that adds that special touch to an outfit.  For men I think these cuff links from Nordstrom are so fun and festive for this time of year.

Sunday Shorts...Saturday Stories

Style Shout Out to Sunday and keeping it short...

Brio

Three day weekends are fabulous because you have that extra day to spend time with family and friends. Last night my hubby, daughter and I went out to dinner with my Mom and Dad to Brio which is one of our favorite family Italian restaurants.

Besides great food there were some great stories told.  You see I grew up with three sisters in a house that was filled with laughter.  My Dad has this amazing ability to make any story interesting and humorous and last night the stories were flowing.  As we were driving home my 8 year old looked at me and said, "Poppy tells the best stories.  He makes me laugh so much he should have been a comedian like Jerry Seinfeld."

It made me realize how fortunate we are that we live near family and that my daughter gets to hear so many fabulous and funny stories first-hand.

So this weekend as you are spending time with your family and friends tell some of your own stories and create some memorable moments.

Happy 4th!

4 Things For The 4th

Style Shout Out to July 4th and 4 things.

I normally reserve my list of "things" for Thursday but with the 4th of July right around the corner I am reminded of how fortunate we are to have freedom of choice and so I decided to make an exception and share a few of my choices and things with you today.

1.  Go blue and white.  Stop by Nordstrom and pick up this fabulous navy and white striped tank by Splendid.  Pair it with white shorts or white skinny jeans (I love Sevens, J Brand and Hudson) and cute flats or sandals (think Gigi by Sam Edelman) and you are ready for the fireworks.

2.  Remember the sunscreen.  It's important for your lips too.  If I'm at Target I'll grab Neutrogena Lip Moisturizer SPF 15.  If I'm at Neiman Marcus I'll pick up Laura Mercier Lip Balm with SPF or Sugar by Fresh.  All three of these lip balms are fabulous for protecting your lips from the sun.

3.  For the beach or pool a great hat and cute cover up are a must.  Nordstrom has both and this Black and White stripe cover up by Beach Star is adorable.

4.  A celebration just isn't a real celebration without music.  When we make our playlist my hubby, daughter and I all choose our favorites so we end up with quite an eclectic mix consisting of everything from Sheryl Crow to Pete Yorn to Selena Gomez to Katy Perry to Coldplay.


My Style Shout Out Tip:  Make your own list of 4 things and have an amazing 4th of July. And as you are heading out the door for your day of fun don't forget your sunglasses.  I'll be grabbing my Oliver Peoples Isobel or my RayBan aviators...it's nice to have the freedom of choice!