Things Olive Right Now

For some reason, I am welcoming Fall so much this year. Everything from the boots I'm able to wear, to the red leaves on the tree across from my house, to the frothy warm beverages I'm sipping on daily- they all remind me that this year is coming to a close. I love this time of year because I know a lot of family time is coming my way. And I love me some family time. Plus, it's almost my birthday, so that's fun too :). Here are a few things I'm loving right now:

01- pretty fall colored leaves
02- puppy I want (Ross, I know you love him too)
03- hello, pretty braids- so easy and perfect for bad hair days
04- mmm, red wine and a fire (if I had a fireplace)
05- love this sweaters Native American inspired details and chunkiness

*all photos via Pinterest

Happy Thursday and GO BOLTS!

xo,
L

Things Olive Right Now

1. Elegant yet rustic Toronto living room, featured on Lark + Linen:
Between the never ending stack of firewood in the corner, the bright blooms on the coffee table, and the vintage gold-framed mirror above the fireplace, this living room screams "live in me!", or at least, "come hang out in me!". P.S. How 'bout those plush white-fur covered chairs?

2. HelloGiggles.
Loving Zooey Deschanel, Sophia Rossi, and Molly McAleer's fresh new blog. It's like having the Funnies section of the newspaper available 24-7. From videos of animals doing outlandish things (who doesn't appreciate a monkey riding backwards on a pig?) to hilarious editorial pieces (Top 10 Disney Outfits), this site has it all. No guys required.

3. Guilty dessert plates, featured on Cupcakes and Cashmere

I hope this comes in a set and has other ones saying other guilt-inducing questions and phrases like, "Did you really need that last piece of cake?" and "A moment on the lips, a lifetime on the hips."

4. What Your American Girl Doll Says About Your Life ?, by Chiara Atik
A must-read for any girl, who, in 2nd-5th grade had an American Girl doll, or wanted one. (For the record, I had a Samantha -and a doll "like me", but I admired Felicity's spunk and thought Molly's glasses were pretty sweet.)

 

5. Curling up with a good book

Nerd alert: I have finished 4 books in the past 2 weeks. Between the entire Hunger Games series, and Something Borrowed (almost done with Something Blue!), I have had a hard time focusing on much else (except dominating Boggle on my ipad and finding a new job, of course). Go to the bookstore, or your Kindle, Nook, or Ipad download section, and download all of the above ASAP. (And yes, The Hunger Games were written for "young adults" i.e. my 14 year old brother read them all and loved them, but anyone in their right mind will find themselves addicted to the world of Panem.)

I hope everyone enjoys their first June weekend!

xo,

L

Things Olive Right Now

1. Princess Kate Middleton's wedding dress.

First, I must preface this with the fact that I am not one to follow William and Kate's every move. Yes, I was interested in the dress this morning but that's about it. Well, the dress is indeed amazing. Classy, of course, but with enough lace to make Wills' heart race.

Do you think that little girl loves all that noise down below?

2. Spinach, Chicken, Avocado, Sliced Almond, Onion, Green Apple Salad

Pair this with either the Champagne Pear Vinaigrette from Trader Joe's or any other fruity, light vinaigrette and prepare to have your taste buds wowed. Although lots of chopping is involved, it is a simple salad to put together. Plus, it's chock full of everything healthy. What's not to love?

3. Mom

Trying to plan something special (and inexpensive) for Mother's Day is no easy task. (Don't worry, Mom, do you really think I'd spoil your surprise on here?)  :) Today, I'm thinking of her and everything she does for me. For all that you do for me, thank you. Get ready for a Sunday Fun-day like no other next weekend!

Mom and me in Santa Barbara

4. The Maxi Dress

Seen here, on the always camera-ready Emily of Cupcakes & Cashmere, is a lavender frock by Urban Outfitters that is begging to be hanging in my closet by next week. The opacity of the dress, paired with tan wedges makes it the perfect one piece ensemble for Spring. Throw on some gold, flirty earrings and you're set for anything from a brunch date to a shopping trip with the girls.

5. STAGECOACH!

I had to save the best for last. Tomorrow morning, Emily and I are packing our (overnight) bags filled with nothing but boots (ok, maybe a pair of sandals too), sundresses, and sunscreen and heading out West  East. for two days of the hot sun, friends, and country music galore. The lineup this year? Rascal Flatts, Darius Rucker, Kenny Chesney, and Carrie Underwood just to name a few. Oh, and Josh Turner too (swoon).

Things Olive Right Now

1. Revlon Nail Color, Kiss Me Coral

The quintessential pick-me-up shade. I'm wearing it on my nails and toes right now to remind me that even during these gloomy days, summer is still only a couple months away.

2. Kettlebell Classes, Ambition Athletics

Thanks to Max and Brian at the Encinitas fitness studio, my butt (and arms, core, shoulders, etc) has been whipped into shape. Max, the owner of the very personal and private gym, makes everyone feel like a pro-athlete- even if you can't do a pull up to save your life. Brian, our instructor, may as well be a personal trainer for the celeb crowd- always pushing everyone to do their best and keeping constant pump up tunes on the stereo.

3. Jessica Simpson, Kowloon Espadrille

I have been living in these wedges since I bought them last week. They are comfy (great for daytime), but also dressy enough to wear out with a sundress. If you're going to buy one new pair of shoes for spring/summer- these are it.

4. East Coast family trips

Planning a spur of the moment trip to Washington, DC next week with the beau's family. Ross' brother, Collin, does the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and we are so excited to go see him in action. Another city getting a pit-stop on the way out there? NYC!

5. Fun weekends

Between Meg's b-day party last weekend in Manhattan Beach, and Emily's wine tasting suaree last Sunday, I have been digging all of the fun events taking place! On the table this weekend? Family time and a little bowling tonight, and a curry date with Ross on Sunday. 

Bernardo Winery, Rancho Bernardo

Have a fun weekend everyone!

xo,
L

Things Olive Right Now

Mahattan & Hermosa Beach Inspired

1. Mediterrano, Hermosa Beach

This lovely restaurant on the Hermosa Beach pier serves unique tapas and other small bites alongside red and white sangria for a memorable dining experience. Seven girls, three pitchers, and ten plates later we left full and happy.

2. Roundhouse Aquarium, Manhattan Beach Pier

Why yes, holding a starfish, peering at mini sharks and creepy eels, and admiring gigantic tuna IS possible before noon on a Sunday. For free!

3. Mandarine, Manhattan Beach

For the style savvy gal who doesn't have a wad of cash to blow on her wardrobe. Picked up a few items after seeing the price tages were all in the $20-40 range. The comfiest tees, prettiest maxi dresses, and enough fedoras and accessories to keep you spruced from head to toe.

4. Simmzy's, Manhattan Beach

With only four select items served for breakfast, Meghan and I were skeptical. Could the bacon and cheese breakfast panini and veggie scramble really satisfy our Sunday morning cravings? Yes, indeed. The scramble was chock full of sun dried tomatoes, avocado, potato, mushrooms, onion, and cheddar with a dollop of sour cream. Heaven on a plate.

5. Hermosa Pier

A long stretch of boardwalk leading out to the ocean...Chock full of bars, restaurants, and shops for your weekend pleasure. Waterman's was the hit of the night, and the DJ took our requests happily.

P.S. Head to [olive ewe] on Facebook and 'Like' it if you haven't already, por favor! :)

Things Olive Right Now

1. Luck of the Irish bottles- How crafty and fun are these St. Pattie's Day elixir bottles? They are the perfect decoration for a St. Patrick's Day gathering- even better if you fill them with a green concoction to get your guests feeling lucky!

 
     2. LivingSocial. I have to give major props to this company...They have deals both in North County San Diego and further south (as well as all over the country) and I probably purchase one deal a week. I'm thinking I should start buying stock in this Washington, DC based company...

3. Battambang Bracelets.

These handwoven bracelets hail from the villages of rural Cambodia. Help support local artisans by purchasing though L-Atitude...Though they're a pretty penny for such simple bracelets ($35 for a stack), if 1/10 of that goes to the craftsmen their family will feast for a week!

4. Neutral Stripes.

I've been living in my navy&white relaxed fit tee and gray&white thin-striped dress with chestnut wrap belt (both from Target-I love a bargain!). Gray or navy paired with white is the perfect base for adding a pop of color. The only thing to be careful with is the size of the stripes- if they are large & horizontal, take a photo of yourself in the item before saying "I do."

5. Fabric Headbands.

Since traveling in Laos, and admiring Faye's adorable fabric headbands (with wire inside) I had been trying to get my hands on one. Unfortunately, that day did not come until recently when I found one at H&M. They are the perfect accessory for days you want to spruce things up, or if you just haven't washed your hair in a day or two. Click the link to learn how to DIY. I love this sweet polka dot one.

Now I'm off to Denver and Boulder until Monday. What are your favorite things to do in Colorado? Have a wonderful weekend!

P.S. Please follow [olive ewe] on Facebook and olive ewe forever (thanks Meg)!

xo,
L

Things Olive Right Now

1. This living room, photo courtesy of Seesaw.
I love the blue rug, dark accent furniture, white couch, and especially that lovely standing candelabra.  So Beauty and the Beast. (Lumiere, is that you?)

    2. Francesca's Collections.
Never have I ever come across a strore where literally everything screams my name. Beaded coinpurses, my favorite Quoteables calendars and cards, and chic accessories are just a few of Francesca's girlie goods. (They have Carlsbad, Escondido, La Jolla, and two other San Diego locations.)

3. The blog, You Are My Fave.
I know it's in my daily reading list (see right sidebar), but this adorable and witty blog seriously is my fave right now. Love her.

4. Marc by Marc Jacobs Lil Ukita handbag
Wanted the Hillier hobo forever & now I'm onto this little number. Want it. Need. it. Need job first.

5. The Breslin by RAEN Optics
I'm obsessed. How fun are these cat eye retro shades? So funky and glam. (32 month anniversary gift babe?) The San Diego company has a plethora of stylish men's glasses as well- they're Ross' faves.

Things Olive Right Now

1. Chocolate Dipped Macaroons:

Inspired by one of my daily reads, Could I Have That?, I am now going to try my hand at baking these sweet treats. One part coconut, one part chocolate, and wholly delectable. I can not wait to gobble these bad boys up.

2. Inside of A Dog: What Dog's See, Smell, and Know by Andrea Horowitz:

Any dog lover will adore this psychologist's take on what really goes on in the mind of Fido. Would be a thoughtful gift for a mom or pooch loving pal. Hint: Click the link to save 50% off on Amazon.

3. TOMS slip ons:

Obsessed with my grey pair. They're as comfy as slippers, yet still fashionable. In the past few days I've worn them with: boyfriend jeans rolled up, a white & grey striped dress, and jean shorts. Love their versatility.

 

4. This sweet poster------>















5. Lexophilia:

That's a condition I have- it means I love words. What are some of your favorite plays on words? (Olive ewe doesn't count :] ) My current fave: A bicycle can't stand alone because it is two tired.

Happy Thursday!

xo,
L

V-Day Cravings

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! I'm off to Palm Springs with my sweetie to bask in the sun, go on a hike, loll by the pool, and drink some bubbly tonight. In my absence, I wanted to write a quick sendoff to all of you out there. Whether you're happily single or cozily coupled up, any one of you can enjoy these current cravings of mine. Drop a hint to your man, or treat yourself to one of these 5 goodies.

1. Pottery Barn: Pocket Watch Clock- various sizes, $29-$59
2. fresh: Sugar Lip Treatment, $22.50
3. Erin Condren: Life Planner, $50 $37.50
4. Banana Republic: Peacock Earrings, $49.50
5. Betsey Johnson: Tea Party swimsuit, $228













*Image credit goes to my valentine.

Have a love filled day!

xo,
L

Things Olive Right Now

I thought I'd start a weekly compilation of things I'm currently into. It's fun to look back on lists like these...Anyone remember their 3rd grade yearbook pages where you had to list off your favorite book, song, teacher, etc? Well, this is kind of like that. But weekly.

Reading this memoir for my book club- The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls

Listening to old school jams- currently it's Third Eye Blind- How's It Going Be

Finding chic decor ideas for our next abode- Mirrored tray for pretty little things a la:

Lovely 

Working on my fitness- Trying hot yoga tonight with my longtime friend, Emily at Yoga Tropics in Encinitas...Wish me luck!

Taking our pup Annie on walks- She finds wonder in everything- from little white dancing butterflies to pine cones to a big yellow leaf swirling on the concrete. I think everyone should try and be more like this little Border Collie/Australian Shepherd. Did I mention she's a huge lover (she's obsessed with Ross- see below)?

Puppy love.

Happy Thursday everyone! Does anyone have fun plans this weekend?

xo,
L