finally friday...

Super excited to play dress up with my God Daughter Vicky this weekend... and also to lay in the sun without a care in the world! xoxo

emerson made...

The Emerson Butterfly Caftan is made to be lived in year round. Pull it on and dance at the festival in the grass or in the festival in your own living room... run errands in it, curl up with friends, have a late night dinner party. You can love in it, laugh in it, live in it and like one of the favorite wardrobe heirloom pieces, it will just get better with every wear. (this sounds like perfection to me!)

Ahhh, for the love of India summer cottons! Inspired by her 1960s and 70s collection of vintage India tunics, caftans and gauzy cotton dresses, this Limited Edition piece was developed by Emerson with the legendary textile artists of Rajasthan India. Each piece is hand-beaded and cut from fine India cottons that are light, soft and luxurious on summer skin.

emerson made

happy hour thursday...

The Blackberry Champagne Cocktail:

4 blackberries, quartered

1/4 cup Triple Sec

4 sugar cubes

Angostura bitters as needed

1 bottle Champagne, Prosecco or other dry sparkling white wine, chilled

In a small nonreactive bowl, combine the blackberries and triple sec and let stand for 15 minutes to let the fruit macerate. Place 1 sugar cube in each of 4 Champagne flutes and add 1-2 dashes of bitters to each. Spoon 4 pieces of marinated blackberry into each flute. Top with Champagne & serve immediately.

Serves 4.

This just sounds like deliciousness!!! (If you hadn't noticed, I like all drinks made with Prosecco and Vodka)

Just Because....

Homemade Smore's!!!

Smashing S’mores

(copied after Trader Joe’s smashing s’mores)

(makes however many you want)

Ingredients

marshmallows

graham crackers

chocolate chips or bar chocolate, melted

Melt a tiny bowl of chocolate to use as “glue.” Melt more chocolate (I used about 1 cup of chocolate chips) in a deep glass or mug to make it easy for dipping.

Break grahams into fours, then cut or snap each slice into squares. Use a dab of chocolate to “glue” the squares together, then add one more dab on top of the top graham and press the marshmallow down. Let sit for 30-60 minutes (or place in the fridge for about 15 if impatient) or until the grahams and marshmallows are “stuck” together. Using a thin fork or long pointy tool (I used a fondue dipped) and press it into the top of the marshmallow gently. Dip it in the chocolate and cover as much as you can. Remove and let set on wax paper, adding more chocolate to the top if you’d like.

How easy is that... perfect for a summer treat!

Dear June...

I'm a big fan of Etsy, the World’s online handmade marketplace. Etsy's mission is to empower people to change the way the global economy works. This is actually my second post dedicated to Dear June, mainly because I love the beachy, relaxed vibe of the items they sell... plus their scarves are amazingly comfortable.

I highly suggest checking out their Etsy website... and while you're on the website, lend your support to other local artists and craftsman's.

happy monday!

You are the best thing.... one of my favorite songs...

finally friday...

Cheers to a weekend of packing up and moving on! I have such great memories and have had even greater times the last 3 years in my apartment, but out with the old and in with the new! I'm excited for new beginnings...xoxo my lovelies!

happy hour thursday...

There's something about warm summer nights and dark summer tans that kick up the sex appeal a notch... and I think it's about time we introduced a cocktail to suit the season! The equivalent of a white hot dress and stained red lips, I think this refreshing drink with a tart little bite to match is just the thing...

The Salted Tarragon Greyhound:

*Grapefruit tarragon infused vodka (not as difficult to find as Rosemary Infused vodka- which is impossible!)

*Freshly squeezed ruby red grapefruit juice, strained of pulp and seeds

*Flaky sea salt or kosher salt

*Agave nectar

*Ruby red grapefruit wedges, for garnish

Fill a short glass with ice and add one part vodka, two parts freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. Transfer to a cocktail shaker and add a pinch of sea salt, and agave nectar to taste. Shake, pour, and garnish with a fresh wedge of ruby red grapefruit for the finishing touch!

This is just hot! (and if this doesn't get you in the mood, just take a shot of Tequila!)

images via coco and kelly

Just Because....

Paddle Boarding!

My newest obsession is paddle boarding! If you haven't tried it, you must. I will warn you that outbursts of laughter, will make you fall in :) (which in Puerto Rico, wasn't a bad thing since the water was absolutely amazing!)

(thats me paddle boarding in Puerto Rico!)

Here are 4 reasons why you should run -- don't walk (even on water) -- to the nearest SUP (stand up paddling) session to try this surfing/canoeing hybrid:

1. Celebs Love It:

This new water sport has an insane amount of A-list traction: Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Garner, Owen Wilson, Matthew McConaughey, Cindy Crawford, Adrian Grenier, Rihanna, Denise Richards and Ben Harper are just a few of the hard-bodied celebs spotted getting their SUP on.

2. It Seriously Works Your Core:

According to Billabong-sponsored pro-surfer Sam Hammer, founder of Sam Hammer Surf Camp in Lavallette and Spring Lake, NJ, "Paddle boarding is a lot easier to learn than surfing. People will stand on the first day." Interestingly, Hammer reports that around 65% of his SUP students are women. For beginners, he recommends a larger board and starting on less turbulent waters like a lake or bay, as the water makes for an unstable, wobbly surface and wind can be tricky when you're paddling against it.

Either way, you'll get a serious workout. "It's one of the most complete full body exercises you could imagine, he explains. "Your core is being activated at all times to stabilize. You'll work your legs, arms, back -- even your feet and toes will be sore if you do it for long enough. Your calves and quads will be on fire." Once you've got it somewhat down, SUP can also be serene and relaxing, according to the expert: "It's a great exercise and a stress reliever, but it's still going to feel unstable and tough the first few times. Be patient and don't give up -- it's worth it!"

3. You Can Try These Moves With Confidence:

Brody Welte, creator of Paddle Fit in Tampa, Florida, shared these "landlocked" SUP-inspired core moves in SELF's July issue:

Inchworm Whittler: Do one push- up, then lift hips and walk feet to hands, keeping legs as straight as possible. Walk hands away from toes to return to start. Do 10, with a push-up between each rep.

Slimming Touch: Stand on right leg, knee slightly bent. With back straight, reach left arm up. Bend forward, reaching left arm to right toes, keeping knee bent and extending left leg behind you for balance. Return to start. Do two sets of 15 reps on each side.

4. You Can Do It On Vacation!

Resorts all across the country are catching onto this trend, offering SUP in everything from lakes to ocean enclaves. Visit these 10 varied domestic spots, for example, and you can get a paddle workout, while you relax:

1. Adventures On The Gorge, West Virginia

2. The Surf Lodge, Montauk

3. The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii (Try Flo-Yo or Floating Yoga!)

4. Ravella at Lake Las Vegas

5. Kahala Hotel, Oahu

6. St. Regis Bahia Beach, Puerto Rico

7. St. Regis Princeville, Kaua'i (**SUP was invented by Laird Hamilton in Kaua'i).

8. Park Hyatt Aviara, San Diego

9. The Inn at Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina

10. ONE Bal Harbour, Florida

And even abroad ...

1. Le Meridien Bora Bora

2. Hayman Island, Australia (Paddle skiing!)

3. The Four Seasons Resort, Nevis

4. Rosewood Little Dix Bay, Virgin Gorda B.V.I.

5. The Four Seasons Punta Mita, Mexico

(Paddle Boarding at Loose Point in East Hampton, NY)

Self Fitness



10 Reasons....

That I'm happy today...

1. I have some pretty awesome girl friends.... one who happens to be preggo, two who are buying new homes, one newly engaged gal, and one just married lady! They all rock, just in case you didn't know!

2. My job is fabulous.... no, really it is!

3. Its summer!

4. I get to walk through Madison Square Park and Union Square each morning on my way to the office.

5. This particular morning, it was sunny and kinda humid... reminding me that I miss South Carolina and need to schedule a trip stat. Need to find myself a date to bring down this year! :)

6. There was also a slight breeze... that made me think of Fall in NYC... my favorite season! (not that I'm rushing summer!)

7. and... if Fall is almost here that means Dunkin Donuts will start selling PUMPKIN MUFFINS in only 3 months!

8. I'm heading to Soho House toinght with a pretty cool chick. If you haven't heard about Soho House, its a pretty chill spot.

9. This time next week I will be in my new fabulous apartment just 14 blocks South of where I currently live... which means moving will be over with!

10. I've crossed off more things on my "To Do aka Bucket List"

happy monday!

I did it! I officially played my first round of golf... and it was absolutely fabulous! I was lucky enough to take a lesson with the golf pro (who happens to be my uncle) at West Sayville Golf Course. I was pretty impressed with my golf skills on the driving range... but than I got onto the golf course. I learned a couple of valuable lessons this weekend. The first being, I understand why men adore this sport. Its completely relaxing and chill. Second, I will no longer make fun of my guy friends who don't score well, as I didn't do to hot myself :)

Looking forward to my next round!

finally friday...

Looking forward to a no plan weekend... since those are the best kind of weekends :) Hmmm maybe I'll play a round of golf, or head out to Sag Harbor or Greenport, or stop at Levain Bakery for some heavenly cookies, or pie at Briermere. This is why I love no plan weekends... I can do whatever I want! xoxo

happy hour thursday...

It seems only appropriate to propose a cocktail that celebrates the sunshine! A little Vitamin C to go with your Vitamin D, if you will...

The Buonasola:

1 part Grey Goose L’Orange Vodka

3/4 part limoncello

3/4 part Rouge Vermouth

1 tsp superfine sugar

3 parts orange juice

Fill cocktail shaker with ice, and add all ingredients. Shake vigorously, and strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Present with an orange slice. Drink up some sunshine and refreshing goodness!

Just Because....

Etiquette For A Lady

Simply Delish!

Chocolate Chip Bottomed Cupcakes!

Two of my favorite foods combined...

Giant Rainbow Cookies

Who doesn't like cookies, and M&M's?!?

(only half of that bowl would probably get cooked since I'm a big fan of cookie dough!)

What Makes Love True

I knew I would like this site, What Makes Love True, when there was a picture of Edward Burns on the homepage... but as I started to play around with the website, I fell in love with the entire idea of "What makes love true." True love means something different to everyone. This site lets you read true love stories of everyday people, hear some fabulous love songs (Joshua Radin is currently on the site, and his music is great!), and get tips on how to make that special someone know they are the one. It even tells you about romantic restaurants here in New York City!

Here is one of my favorites tips...

No. 20

Surprises are Essential.

An unscheduled night of dancing.

Suddenly, tickets to Paris. A hidden gift.

Surprises lift romance to stratospheric heights.

newly obsessed...

...with these AWESOME shorts...

and these super chic bags that benefit Fashion. Love Africa.

The bags are beautifully constructed and handmade by women in Africa who receive a steady source of income for the production. The designer Ryan Clements, who previously worked at Zac Posen, purchases the bags with $10 from each tote going back to help the women and their communities in Africa.

happy monday!

I love hammocks and this looks perfect to cuddle on, and the view isn't so bad...

now if only my lobster would get here already! :)

finally friday...

Here's to the Good Life

happy hour thursday...

Pineapple and Mango Rum Punch!

Ingredients

2 1/2 small ripe mangoes, peeled and cubed (about 2 cups), plus 1/2 mango cut into slices with skin, for garnish

4 ounces best-quality golden rum

4 cups fresh pineapple juice (from a 4 1/2-pound pineapple)

Fresh tropical fruit, such as dragon fruit and star fruit, for garnish

Directions

1.Puree mangoes, rum, and 1/2 cup water in a blender. Pour 2 ounces puree into each of six 12-ounce glasses. Fill glasses with ice, and top off with pineapple juice. Garnish with tropical fruit.

Serves 6

image and recipe via Martha Stewart

Simply Baked!

Tonight is the night! Wish me luck...

...heading to the ultra delicious Village Social in Mt. Kisco, NY (check out the link!!)

Bermuda or Bahamas

I have been having an urge to book another vacation. I had looked into the Bahamas last month, but it was pretty pricey. I am now insanely jealous of my co-worker who is heading there this Friday, and got an amazing deal. Hmmm I have to pick an island to get certified to scuba dive, just may have to do this and if I do, here is where I would stay...
Atlantis
One and Only Resort
Pink Sands

I've also heard great things about Bermuda... just a short flight from NYC.
Rosewood Tuckers Point

The Reefs

Now... need to find someone to come with!! A long weekend away can't come soon enough!

daydreaming...

Daydreaming about how one day I will decorate my home... but in the mean time I can decorate my new apartment! Looking forward to it!

images via Lonny Magazine

happy monday!

My God Daughter, Vicky, enjoying one of my favorite past times, Slip and Slide during July 4th Weekend. Long weekends are the best, especially when you get to relax with great family and friends!

finally friday...

Happy 4th of July Weekend!