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! ⚡️

Have a Very Berry Christmas

 It's almost Christmas, but don't fret, I have something great for you to give as a gift! Whether you're trying to find something for your best friend, mom or sister, or just need something nice for yourself, get ready to shop all things BodyCeuticals. 

Oh, and they'll ship your order for free if you spend $75 or more. Not a bad deal, considering their products are highly affordable, which means you'll be able to get something for everyone on your list, just be sure to check it, twice! 

Over the next few weeks you'll be attending holiday parties and joining in on the merrily singing, but what you may not notice, is how the weather changes, lack of sleep and even what you eat, may wreck havoc on your skin. Don't despair, I have the perfect facial serum duo to keep you looking glam, day and night!

The Berry Beauty Drops - Day -- This pretty little bottle is filled with 100 percent pure, cold-pressed unrefined red raspberries seed and fruit oil! The lightweight formula absorbs quickly into the skin,  keeping it hydrated and protected. Infused with significant amounts of Vitamin A, C and essential fatty acids, you will see a glow in as little as a few days. Oh, and let's not forget it's vegan, organic, wheat, gluten and soy free and non-GMO. The same goes for the Berry Beauty Drops Day's counterpart, The Berry Beauty Drops - Night!

Designed to nourish the skin at night, the organic, cold-pressed blackberry seed and fruit oil Berry Beauty Drops - Night is infused with Vitamin C, which helps in collagen production and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This gorgeous dark color serum is attributed to the blackberries' naturally occurring polyphenols. 

Each individual bottle is $32, and available now! Go get yours! Happy shopping and have a very berry Christmas! xx

It's a Date!

There's nothing more exciting than getting ready for a first date, so do it in style and get inspired with this sophisticated, on-point look that is sure to knock his socks off and have you sparkling, rather it's a day date, or an evening meet and greet. Ciao, Bella!

Classic beauty by ladylisalove featuring leather handbags

What I Learned in 2016

Can you believe we only have a few more hours until we say goodbye to 2016 and hello to 2017?! It's crazy, right? 

With so many world events that have taken this year by the horns, I'm sure we've all had a few  personal experiences we'd wish never made a pit stop, but what is life without some downfalls? We can't have it all, and life is never perfect, but we can learn a lot through these ups and downs and make the best out of it, or perhaps even learn from them. 

Here's what I learned this year:

• I'm a Go-Getter

This isn't something necessarily new to me, but it's definitely worth acknowledging. I can't sit still. I don't like wasting time and I definitely function at a higher speed than most. Whether it is about health, fitness, work or organizing my closet and then reorganizing it again, I must see things progress. Everything has an order; a place in this world, and in order to see these things fit into their proper space, I create a hands-on approach to make sure it gets done. I guess you can say I'm a type-A personality. Although mostly wonderful, this type of personality can be difficult to have at times because it can make me a perfectionist and allows for frazzled moments with others who are inactive to pursue their dreams or resolve health issues. This leads me into the second thing...

• Accepting People As They Are

People show you who they are every day. Whether happy and make every situation positive, negative and dismissive or smile to your face and live a secret life behind your back (trust me it happens). People will show you who they are, the type of person they connect with and what you can expect from them. Don't make anyone be who you want them to be, but rather listen to what they are saying to you. You'll spend less time problem solving, and more time living your best self.

• It's OK to Say "NO"

It's definitely ok to say no. Your life and your time is precious, and spending it with who and as you wish, is and SHOULD BE a definite priority. 

• New Things Are Scary but Worth a Try If Your Heart Is In It

This one is pretty straightforward, but we all need a little reminder that stepping out of our comfort zone can be a bit scary, and that's normal. When I started my new job a year ago, I was pretty scared. It was something I had wanted to do for years, but never had the right opportunity. Then with a LOT of persistence (TYPE A), a lot of patience, learning from others and weaving in my own skills, I landed the job of managing a magazine for a large organization. A huge dream come true; and a huge goal accomplished. My heart was there and so was the fear, but if I let the fear outweigh my heart's desire, I would have never pursued this job, and I'm so glad I listened to my heart. 

• God Has A Plan For You

Simply put, everyone's journey is their own. God intended yours to move just as fast (or slow) as needed. The route may change course and your abilities, function or outlook may change from time to time, but you are right where you need to be. Trust Your Journey.

Now that I've shared what I learned, it's time to set out some new goals for 2017! I'm very much ready to do this, and I hope you'll join me. Grab a pen and paper and write out a few goals of your own. There's no rush, take your time. Vision your goals. Let's go!

Goals for 2017:

1. Do Yoga 1 to 2xs a week. 

2. Drink More Water (with lemon)

3. Say "No" to Things You Don't Want To Do

4. Be OK with Your Fitness Journey and Progress 

5. Spend More Time Doing what You love

6. Get More Sleep

7. Do More Things Outdoors 

~ Now for a little fluff, here are some pictures to share my favorite IG posts of 2016 ~

Happy New Year! May Your Blessings be Abundant!

Inspiration Pieces: Cozy Christmas

Let the season inspire you! Whether you'll be snuggling by the fireside with your sweetheart, or going to a dinner with girlfriends, look chic and cozy in this ensemble. 

Cozy Christmas by ladylisalove featuring silver home decor

Small Business Saturday

It's time to shop! - Small Business Saturday 

Small Business Saturday is designated to create a buzz around mom-and-pop businesses, and help them receive, well, more business! The reason why it's great to support these businesses, is that it not only shines light on the entrepreneur spirit, but it expands the community that you live in, or live near by; allowing you to invest in a gift from local artist or rarely seen vendors, making your purchase unique and treasure-felt. 

Here are six businesses from Orange and Los Angeles counties that would love to meet you. 

Get ready to shop, eat, snack and pick up a treat for fido!

TRINKETS AND FASHION

1.  SUO BOUTIQUE

SUO Boutique, in Brea and Monrovia, California. The store's clothing ranges from extra small to large, and rarely holds items for curvier girls, however they have an array of cute shoes, earrings and other accessories to complement any outfit, and their slew of knick knacks had me jumping over the moon! I wanted to buy everything, but had to reel it in. 

Prices range from $4-$45. 

2. LOCAL FIXTURE

Local Fixture in Whittier, California, has an eclectic display of jewelry by local artist, bath and toiletry items such as hand-crafted soaps and perfumes, carries cards and several other gifts for men, women and kids. They have a newly section for the outdoor adventurer who likes, Patagonia, and unisex clothing to support the local city of Whittier "where the girls are prettier," or so the t-shirt description said so.

The dark wood frame that encompasses the shop, houses some of the most hip and friendliest sales guys and gals on Bright Avenue, who will wrap up any purchase free of charge. If you get thirsty or need a snack, you might pick up a cold brewed coffee drink, which is always on tap, or try one of their high-end donuts from Donut Snob, served every Friday and Saturday.

Prices range from $3 to $229.

PLACES TO EAT 

3. BAILEY'S STREET KITCHEN

Bailey's street kitchen is located on Bailey Street, in Whittier, California. The family owned restaurant is pretty small in size, but the food packs a delicious-and-rather impactful, punch! Whether it's Italian, Mexican or American food you're craving for breakfast, lunch or dinner, Bailey's Kitchen has it all for you.  Since I'm a breakfast addict, I dove right into the chocolate chip pancakes, while my boyfriend can be seen cutting into their delicious chicken and waffles. 

Princes range from $5 to $17

4. CREPES & GRAPES

If you're looking for something a little more quaint, check out Crepes & Grapes, adjacent to Bailey's Street Kitchen. 

The Uptown Whittier cafe serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner with a Paris vibe. Serving up items with names such as Croque-Madame and Belle Matine. Featured below is the scrambled eggs and asparagus, topped with goat cheese, a side of a rather large parfait and some hot chocolate that is so delicious! 

I've stopped in here on numerous occasions and have found that my favorite protein plate is the chimichurri demi steak and eggs breakfast.  If you have little ones, their kids menu is perfectly suited.

Prices range from $6 to $25.

4. MARSTON'S RESTAURANT

Marston's Restaurant in Pasadena, is a causal little spot that serves up delicious American-style food in a cozy little cottage. Be mindful that wait time varies as the staff hustles and bustles to keep the movement of service as fast as possible in this little nook. The french toast is an absolute must, as it's engulfed in corn flakes for crunch and added texture. If I could squeal "yum!" through the computer screen, I would. 

Live further north? Check out their second location in Valencia. 

Prices range from $2 to $15.

SNACK

5. DOTS CUPCAKES

Now I only have one place for snacks to talk about and that's because it's by far the most delicious I've ever tried. With two locations, both in Pasadena, California (just a few blocks from Marston's), Dots Cupcakes will make your eyes light up the moment you walk into the boutique-style store and inhale the smell of freshly baked cupcakes, which they create daily. You may even want to press your nose up on the glass, but don't, that's just weird and not sanitary. 

A few days a week, DOTS CUPCAKES changes up the array by rotating in daily flavors. Choose between regular and mini size. 

 What's great about DOTS, is just an added bonus, they are so friendly and always representing their city, the local community and welcoming to every visitor that they meet. They're also a green company and use soy ink and recycled paper for their wrapping and boxes.  Thank you Dots and your incredible associate who created the Dallas Cowboy themed birthday cupcakes below for my boyfriend. They were a hit!

Prices range from $1.75 to $33.

THE DOG BAKERY

6. THE DOG BAKERY

I could never forget my cutie patootie, Bella, or her many doggy neighbors, so this one is for them!  After you grab your cupcake from Dots Cupcakes, cross Colorado Boulevard and head west to The Dog Bakery. It's a hidden gem for dog treats and birthday cakes specifically made with only the finest ingredients edible to dogs. All items are hand made in the USA. The company has three locations in California, so if you're near Venice or Beverly Hills, don't fret. You can pick up your orders there. 

Not interested in buying a birthday cake for you dog? Not to worry, The Dog Bakery also houses toys for small and large pups, collars, leashes, dish bowls and many other necessity items in between. 

Bella turned 12-years-old in October, and she deserved a cake of her own, so that's just what she got. The adorable associate made it just right, and Bella was doggy stuffed.

Seen here is a 12" round peanut butter and carob cake.

Prices range from $1.25 to $50

HAPPY SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY! 

If you find a great spot that's not listed here, please write me, I'd love to check them out. Have a great weekend!