A Day in Paradise (Malibu, California)

I guess I’m a little more spontaneous then I’ll admit. A 90 minute car ride in Los Angels traffic and I made it to Paradise Cove beach, in Malibu, California. Just a simple day for a simple girl. 

If you’ve never been to Paradise Cove, I will warn you that parking is pricey at $35 (Mon-Friday), close to $50 on the weekends. A local restaurant will validate your parking for four hours with a minimum food/drink tab. 

Also, it’s a rather small beach in comparison to my usual favorite beaches to visit, such as Huntington, Laguna, Dana Point, and La Jolla, which are located in Orange County, California and San Diego. But, like my usual response to things that don’t meet my  expectations, I made the most of it! I noticed a  small, flat surface at the bottom of a cliff that looked like water was only slightly covering the surface, which made my mind start thinking, “There’s something more on the other side.” So in true Lisa fashion, I went past the boundaries that most people stay behind and went trucking through some waves and rocks to climb around a mini cliff to another, more secluded, beach.  I’m inquisitive by nature, and thankfully so, because the private spots are always the best! Enjoy!

Super Heroic

Had a nice time at the Hollywood Castle, celebrating the team of Nerf, Footlocker and Super Heroic, a brand centered around kids at play. I don’t know about your childhood, but without aging myself fully, I can honestly testify that electronics weren’t my focus. I was too busy climbing trees, roller blading, riding my bike, swimming, playing tag, and watching friends at the skate park, football field or on the basketball court.

Fast forward to the world of social media, Fortnite and several other avenues of the “operated by batteries-only” lifestyle, the days of walking through your neighborhood and hearing children giggle and play tag or catch, are starting to look like a past time. 

Thankfully, through the creative lens of Super Heroic, they are reintroducing an energy force that is geared around freedom and  enthusiasm to motivate kids to get outside and in tune with an active lifestyle that’s full of adventure! So the only question left, would be, what’s your superpower? 

Thanks for allowing me to be a part of your special event, #superheroic, I had a blast! ⚡️

San Diego Getaway!

I recently visited San Diego, California, again, but this time it was going to be a girls only trip!

After other plans fell through for both my friend, Ness and I, we decided to meet up mid-week for morning mimosas, and within seconds a quick invite of, “Wanna go to San Diego this weekend?” Followed by a  “yes,” from myself had us booking a hotel and embarking on our next adventure, and first ever local road trip, together. The stars aligned just right, everything was ready to go, and Friday morning we took off to SD! 

We visited awesome beaches, trekked Torrey Pines hiking trails, munched on crispy bacon and avocado toast, sipped mimosas, gorged on juicy burgers and hit up the notorious Gas Lamp District for some dancing—something neither one of us had done in years! We had a blast, and filled much of the space between with discussions over life, relationships,  singing and major giggles. 

@shoesdogsandchocolate
Windansea Beach, San Diego 

Black’s Beach, San Diego 

Torrey Pines State Park 





@shoesdogsandchocolate 

GasLamp District, San Diego, California 

La Jolla Cove

@shoesdogsandchocolate

Brockton Villa Restaurant

The weekend was just what we both needed,  an affair to remember! Finding good people that care about your soul in a world full of shallow living can seem so few and far between, but when you find a genuine heart, whether a friend or romantic partner, hold onto them! It just might make you see the world a little differently, and will definitely make your life richer and worth the ride!

Newport Beach - Fun in the Sun

The weather is finally warming up in California, and what better way to enjoy it then at the Beach! 

If you live in Southern California, or plan on visiting soon, check out Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, Dana Point and Balboa Island. Many spots to surf, sun bathe (safely of course, with SPF 30+); build sand castles, and explore marine life. 

Here’s a fun day trip spent with my friend Alex, out in Newport Beach, California. 

Bike rentals are everywhere around Main Street in Newport Beach, and the board walk is a few miles, making it perfect for a little cruise. 

Hope you visit soon! :) 

Hiking: Eaton Canyon

Trailed an old favorite—Eaton Canyon. The 3.5 miles round trip trail is best suited for those who enjoy agility training as it includes crossing back and forth over a stream, and hurdling over rocks and logs. I absolutely love it! The only downfall is the crowd. If you’re a fast walker or athletic at minimum, start your hike early (between 6am-8:30am) otherwise you run the risk of getting stuck behind slower or inexperienced trekkers. 

Also, wear the appropriate shoes. It’s best to wear hiking or trail running shoes with enough traction to keep you from slipping off rocks. Bonus if your shoes are waterproof! 

As for any additional essentials, it’s always a good idea to carry  a bottle of water, and to apply sunblock and bug spray before you head out on the trail. 

For those with any previous or current leg injuries, not in good health, or have poor balance, I would avoid this hike as you wouldn’t want to further injure yourself. However, if you’re athletic and have a brave heart to take on the challenge, then by all means! Enjoy! 

Simply Glowing: Water Lantern Festival 2019

This past Saturday, I attended the Water Lantern festival.

Hosted by One World LLC., the water lantern festival is a traveling event that plants its stakes into different locations throughout the United States, and is expanding. 

My ticket (presale) was only $25 this year, and well worth the enjoyment and chill vibes felt through the evening air. Strangers were kind, inviting and relaxed. Volunteers and staff of the event were excited to have you, like a long time friend waiting for your arrival to their party.

The event had music, games, food trucks and street vendors selling glow sticks and other fun souvenirs.

The Water Lantern’s guided host counted down the evening’s agenda to the crowd as the time approached the latern launch, and let’s just say, people were full of emotion. As you can decorate each latern to your own choice of words, images or quotes, many were in tears to remember a loved one, or filled with excitement to set intentions for the future. The takeback was rewarding as the feeling of solitude washed over the crowd as they watched their words drift on the water in a warming glow. 

I cherished this evening, and would definitely recommend it to new timers. Go alone, go with friends, family, your boyfriend, girlfriend, or kids, but at least try it, once. It’s definitely a heart-warming experience. 

water lantern festival

IMATS Los Angeles Recap! 2018

 International Makeup Artist Tradeshow (IMATS) 2018!

Hi All! If you've been reading my blog for a while, first of all, THANK YOU, and secondly, welcome back! It will be no surprise to you that I'm sharing about my recent visit to the IMATS this year. 

It was another fun excursion to see bodies painted, artists at work, and a slew of makeup goodies ready to be purchased. If you love makeup, these shows can be pricey, mainly due to the shopping! But oh, so worth it! There are a ton of booths packed with amazing deals, new product launches and seasonal items you'll want to grab before they hit store shelves and websites. 

Moving on to the fun stuff! I stopped at Kat Von D's booth and grabbed some staples -- I love her Ink Liner and studded kiss lipsticks! The Ink Liner is by far the easiest  liner to apply. If you haven't already tried it, I'd suggest picking up a travel version at local beauty stores. CoverFx is another favorite of mine. They have great primers for soothing sensitive skin, oil, dry, you name it, they have something that will work for you. I snagged some cute glosses for lippies,  eyelashes from Koko Lashes and House of Lashes; Model in a Bottle setting spray, Miss Adoro mermaid brushes, L.A. Girl concealer and blush, Lime Crime treats and more! 

With all the eye candy happening around you and friendly fellow artist to interact with, it was tough to catch all the demos and interview panels, but I did snap some fun photos of up and coming makeup artist and established professionals who were strutting their stuff throughout the convention center. 

 In addition to fun body painting artist, I had the pleasure of meeting BrowQueen Kelley Baker, who is so down to earth, you'd swear she was your best friend since junior high! Love you Kelley! Her brow tutorials can be found online and on Instagram of course, and she now sells these awesome brow kits to make anyone an instant brow pro!

 MAC Pro artist Lyndrell dazzled my cheeks with a fun new highlighter called Show Gold! Lyndrell is based out of Hollywood and is an incredible artist. Find her also on Instagram @makeupbylyndie or visit her store. Super kind girl with a heart that radiates through her personality.  Oh, and she loves glitter! We were instant best friends!

...and lastly was Taylor! This cutie is only in her early 20s and already doing big things! She was working at the Lime Crime booth showing off her new look of the day. Taylor has a really cool portfolio and an eclectic style. She's doing big things with her life, and is ready to share her knowledge with the world. Can't wait to see more of your success, Taylor! Follow her @TaylorSteingold 

As my two-day trip was winding down, I have to say it was better than last year. I think the difference was the people. The beauty industry can be known as vain and harsh, many critics and those who want to compete, but with a world this big, there's room for all of us to succeed and this year's show confirmed it with all the great artist and industry personnel I had the pleasure of meeting and sharing in conversation with. You are all great and I can't wait to see you all continue to excel in your craft. Thank you for inspiring me and giving me some amazing words of wisdom and memories to hold onto. 

Until next time, IMATS! <3