March 31, 2015

Star(buck)s & Stripes



Today was simple and relaxing. I slept in a bit late, watched a few repeat episodes of the Real Housewives of New York (RHWONY) and shopped a little before I start my new job tomorrow! (Inner cheer).

While browsing through Forever21 I spotted a "pick of the week." A $9 tank dress. I bought it in three different colors. #fashionista

Get yours today before they're all gone! Tell them Lisa from Shoes, Dogs & Chocolate sent you. ;) 

Xo

March 27, 2015

Chocolate for Breakfast?





Bon Appetit! 
Who said you can't have chocolate in the morning with your breakfast? 

(Tip: this meal can be made morning, noon or night)

Smoothie Recipe: 
- 1 cup chocolate Zico Coconut Water (or more)
- dash of cinnamon 
- spoonful of almond butter 
- 2 bananas 

Breakfast scramble: 
- 3 eggs 
- chopped zucchini 
- cooked onions 
- sprinkled with pepper. 
Easy to make and you'll stay full until your mid-morning snack ;) #recipes

March 24, 2015

Coola Organic Suncare


Today was super bright with a breeze. That's usually when I get burned the most! Not today, #california not today! 
Check out Coola Suncare for further details on their amazing line of organic sun and skin care products.

March 23, 2015

Runyon Canyon | Hollywood Hills Hike

(Warning: A little silliness, a lot of heart and a bit of mush shared ahead on my recent trip to Runyon Canyon Park, located in the Hollywood Hills of California.)

The weekends are meant for fun! Here's a quick snapshot of me cheesing it up right before the biggest hike I've ever done (so far) in my life.

Upon arrival, there were a few "good mornings," the tap of a cold nose hitting the back of your leg time-to-time from wiggle butts, (read more on Bringfido), and the observation that many people were sticking to the simple path. But being a girl who never colored inside the lines, I thought: "What's fun about that?"
After the smooth highs and lows of the mountain, I decided that hiking the highest peak would be a great idea. What I didn't expect was that after 1 1/2 hours into the hike, that climb towards the  peak, would bring something more physically, spiritually and emotionally.  


I dropped my fears, pushed my body to work and even felt sweat and tears stream down my face once I climbed 75 percent up the mountain. 

I was just proud. Proud of myself, my body, and thankful for the surrounding scene around me.


After composing myself, I forced my boyfriend to climb ahead. He didn't want to go far, so I asked him to just move up about 10 feet. I just needed a moment to myself. And you can see why. I was so high up, and yet I felt at peace. 


The most beautiful hawk floated two feet above my head as I reached the top. I couldn't believe how close he was, but then again, I was the one close to him. I was invading his space and he didn't seem to mind.


I made it. I tackled the highest peak. I was drenched in sweat and appreciation and my heart couldn't be any happier than it was at this moment.

My first hike at Runyon Canyon was definitely worth every step. I look forward to the next time. 

Hiking Concerns: 
This hike is moderate and should only be tackled by those who do not have any ankle, knee or back injuries as you'll need to stabilize yourself over loose rocks and uneven pavement and climb up and down steep hills and rocks.

For More information, or to learn about other hiking areas in the Los Angeles area, check out the  Best Trails List by Discover Los Angeles. 


*Want to share your favorite hiking trail and experience?  Go to our Shoes, Dogs & Chocolate Facebook page and share with us. Don't forget to "LIKE" our page. **

xx
Lisa

Shoes, Dogs & Chocolate 


March 21, 2015

Sephora Beauty Mini Haul


Note to all beauty girls: Quick grabs are usually the best! It shows you're assertive, and assertive girls are sexy and know what they want. ;)

Ok.... So here's what I did.

Minding my own business and keeping the assertive mindset, I walked into the Sephora located in Downtown Disney, during my recent trip to the Happiest Place On Earth, and then, it happened.

If, A, you're a girl who loves makeup, and, B, ever walked into a Sephora store, you get my point. 

I truly had my mind set. I was only going to purchase one Radiant Creamy Concealer by Nars, but when a girl's heart rate goes up, there's no stopping her. 

Here's what I purchased: 

1. Two Nars Radiant Creamy Concealers in the colors: Honey and Custard.

2.  Sephora MicroSmooth Baked Sculpting  Trio. This little baby has a bronzer, blush and highlighter.

3. Sephora retractable black eyeliner. These are my favorite. They last all day, and come with a smudge sponge to soften and create dramatic cat eyes or sweet day-time looks.

4. Sephora Rouge Shine lipstick. There's no name given, just says No.5.

5. Sephora waterproof retractable lip liner in Petal. 

6. Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Moonstone. 

7. Lavanilla pure vanilla deodorant. If you want to try a 100 percent natural deodorant, try this out. I love it. It has no aluminum, no paraben and it smells great!

I won't share the total as it was pretty steep. I will however share the positive, and as any Sephora girl knows, I racked up points towards free beauty minis! 

What has been your recent beauty purchase? Share with me on the blog, Facebook or IG 

Shoesdogsandchocolate ❤️

Xo
Lisa 

March 20, 2015

Spring has Sprung

Glitter and pink gel manicure. What's your favorite nail color shade for spring?

Xo
Lisa 

March 18, 2015

Dental Dog Treats Review | Indigo Fresh

 We (Bella, Lulu and myself) just received a box of free treats from PetSafe in exchange for our honest review. Well, since the girls can't articulate in english, I'll do my very best to explain what I observed. ;)



I was recently introduced to Petsafe's Indigo Fresh Treats at the Natural Expo West this year. After stopping by their booth to chat with their Senior National Accounts Manager, I was pleased to hear the details and go over the quality of ingredients, benefits and the design of their new Indigo Fresh Treats and Fresh Floss Bones.

Due to Bella's recent health scare this past Thanksgiving however, my Doggy-Mom concerns were on high alert, which means I'm more cautious  than before, to make sure I give Bella and her little sister Lulu, healthier choices that agree with their bellies and lifestyle. 

This treat however, brought down those concerns, and I wanted to know more. 

When our box arrived, we received all three of Petsafe's new treats to try: Indigo Fresh Floss Bones, Indigo Fresh Dental Sticks and Indigo Fresh Dental Sauce



Just recently, both Bella and Lulu were suffering from stinky breath. Something I associated with as a normal part of dog life. However, my discussion with PetSafe experts had me believing otherwise. I was surprised to hear that eight out of 10 pets have periodontal concerns by the age of three, and that periodontal disease is the most common clinical problem among dogs (and cats) today.  



Top signs of periodontal disease found in pets:
  • Excessive Drooling
  • Bumps or ulcers in or around the mouth
  • bleeding gums
  • Loose teeth
  • Tartar
  • Not wanting their head touched. (this one surprised me)
Now, I have seen some excessive tartar on my pups, but the rest sort of worried me. If you care about your pets like I do, I know this list will have you checking your fur-babies mouth for all the above. If you find one or more of these, you need to make a Vet appointment, pronto.

Before I share my review further, I must admit I didn't give Bella or Lulu the Dental Sticks as they came in size medium, which is a bit large for my dogs who are under 10lbs.  I do plan however, to give the dental sticks to our pal and neighbor, Bella Fatche. (Translation from Italian to English means: "Beautiful Face"). Yes, another Bella. :) She's a Wheaton Terrior, and I think she would just love a gift from her buddies, just because.

The Indigo Fresh Dental Sauce is ideal for a quick drizzle of flavor when you want to soften your pet's kibbies/crunchies, or just need to add an extra bit of flavor to their bland dog food. A little goes a long way, but avoid giving the sauce the same day as you do an Indigo Dental Floss Bone or Indigo Dental Stick. Like humans, too many treats can produce a sour tummy.

What Bella & Lulu love about the Indigo Fresh Dental Floss Bones
1. Perfect size for their little mouths
2. They can hold them easily between their paws
3. They taste and smell delicious (Lulu's the most judgmental, so if it smells good to her, it's good!)






Dog Mom Concern
The only concern I had, was when they were down to the bottom knob. I feared it would get lodged into their throat and cause them to choke. I monitored closely and found that they chewed the end quite easily as it seemed rather soft. In the future, I may just pull this last piece from them to avoid any worry altogether. It's a Mom thing. Don't judge.

All in all, I think Bella and Lulu will give these treats, two paws up! 

To learn more about Petsafe treats, including ingredients and where to buy, I highly recommend you check out the Petsafe site.

And if you have your own opinion about Petsafe, let me know that as well by either commenting below through blogger or by adding your comment to our Shoes Dogs and Chocolate Facebook page.

Xo and two paw stamps this time,

Lisa, Bella and Lulu 


March 13, 2015

The Bark Corner :Meet Beri Rose:

The Bark Corner
:Meet Beri Rose:
A 9-month-old Shish Tzu mix from Nutley, New Jersey.
What is she doing?
What any young fashionista would do; showing off her newest accessory and fresh blow out.
Where did she come from?
Originally from Newark, NJ (like her human Mommy), Beri was rescued by the nice people at St. Hubert's Animal Shelter and thankfully didn't stay at the shelter for long, as her human family swooped her up very quickly.
What is she wearing?
The new Baublebar Firecracker collar. For further details, go to www.baublebar.com ‪#‎baublebar‬ ‪#‎jewelry‬
What's next on her social calendar?
Well, now that all the snow and ice has finally melted on the east coast, Berri will be going for long walks more often and will probably stop by her pal Ace's house down the street to see if he can come out and play. 
What makes her great?
Independent, adventurous and a bit of a tomboy.


March 8, 2015

Happy International Women's Day! {2015}

We've come a long way in history and our efforts are not in vain. March 8, 2015 marks International Women's Day, and I'm not losing out on the opportunity to express my silly side in honor of the many women who molded the road before me, so I can do just that! 💕💪Keep making waves, Ladies! #internationalwomensday #bebold Because of all of you, I was able to go to school, become a journalist, vote, wear makeup, and dance like a wild woman on a cliff side in Laguna Beach, California. Amen!


Xo
Lisa 

Natural Products Expo comes to the Westcoast


Had a blast at this year's Natural Expo West. Held at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California, the three level building and surrounding hotels were full of foot traffic. From manufacturers to exhibitors, bloggers, celebrities, Media, and healthful-minded individuals all looking and ready to promote the next big thing in natural, organic, cruelty-free and vegan treats, health and beauty, pet care, baby and household items.

What we eat or wear on our skin is so important to our every day being. You've already heard how eating healthy is better for you, especially when you want to lose a few pounds, right? But what if you start feeling ill or suffer severe ailments? Do you try eating healthier foods, then? 

Ever think back on how you lived your life prior, and which foods had odd ingredients you can't even pronounce? It can definitely be overwhelming, and even scary. It is for me, anyway. 
That's not to say I'm turning fully vegan or avoiding my chocolate cravings. My blog is called Shoes, Dogs and CHOCOLATE, after all. I did take note, however, of the overwhelming positivity that filled each showroom I stepped into. 

People just seemed happy overall, and it wasn't hard to understand why, when you were being offered sample upon sample of natural products and yummy eats to keep you hydrated and full during hours of walking. 

I know it was more than that, though. People were walking testimonies of how paying attention to your health and overall well-being, can really help you live a better life for years to come. 



(Kyle Richards, actress and reality TV star on Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.)



(Laurie Hermann of Laurie Hermann's Skincare.)




So Delicious is a brand of frozen treats made of coconut milk. So good!



Until next year! 
Xo
Lisa 

March 1, 2015

RCMA contour palette #11

Ever heard about contouring? 

It's the fastest, cheapest way to create high cheekbones, fuller lips, a smaller nose and a slimmer face. And, guess what? There's no surgery required; so if you don't like the outcome, you can wash it off and try again. 

Here's one of my favorite contour palettes, it's the RCMA VK palette in #11. 
Check them out at www.rcmamakeup.net