pretty, delicate & expressive necklaces - just like you

I walked away from buying this gold plated pen nib necklace at a local boutique in Newport Beach.  Boy, was I sad.  I've been on the hunt for a little gold necklace, and this one was so expressive, so me.  So, I did what any other 21st-century-savvy gal would do and found it online on the designer's website, Erica Weiner.  Right in New York, she creates pieces from found objects; very rustic, vintage.  Her pieces capture Americana - they're whimsical with spirit.  I've got my eye on a few more...

home for the holidays

(Christmas Tree in Orange County, CA)

 (Bellagio Garden in Las Vegas, NV)

Please excuse the probable lack of posts until 2011.  I'm currently heading to Laguna Beach, CA and then flying on Christmas to Las Vegas, NV for my yearly sojourn to both my homes to spend some much needed time with family.

Merry Christmas!

May you find joy this season, warmth in love and merriment in friends and family.  Love, Rie

*Images courtesy of Pic Vicious & Rose Brand

coastal christmas

While the Berkeley Penthouse has more traditional deocrations, it wasn't that long ago that my Los Angeles home had a tree and mantle greenery with starfish and shell garland and a stuffed lobster topped my tree.  With my trip home to Laguna Beach this very evening, it made me think about decorating for a christmas at the beach.  Coastal Living has a lovey article this month about decorating for the holidays with some great pictures for inspiration.

winter fun: ice skating

Oh, you know.  A little ice skating on frog pond with some gal pals to get us in the Christmas mood.

It snowed yesterday!  Normally I'm a complete curmudgeon when it comes to snow, but I was actually into it for a brief moment during a walk in the flakes.  It's easy to say that knowing I'm heading to Southern California tomorrow...

starting to feel like christmas

 With impending snow in Boston, celebrating a very special Christmas Eve baby's birthday, baking cookies, caroling with my church and the annual Jingle Bell run, it's starting to really feel like the holidays.  Have a great weekend!

*Images courtesy of Bippity Boppity Boo, Cork Grips, Salement & Shelter

design decor: zig zags

Stripes with some sass are on my mind.

*Images courtesy of Canadian House & Home, Elements of Style & Pink Wallpaper

local find: pillows

Check out etsy seller kyoozi and her fabulous pillows I am drooling over for about $35 a pop.  Move over Pottery Barn.  Bonus?  Local Bostonian.