Pug Love

Ever since my mom got her adorable pug Bella my entire family has become pug OBSESSED. Bella is a ball of cuteness. She fits in perfect with our crazy family. She is sassy and sweet, has the cutest snort, loves to cuddle and is always game for a little dress up. Her wardrobe consists of many different looks - biker chic, beautiful ballerina, army girl and an assortment of bedazzled collars to accessorize. My mom’s husband (who I wouldn’t necessarily call a lover of pets) has developed the cutest bond with her. Today I heard the best news. Our pug lovin' family is expanding. Taylor and her boyfriend (the cutest couple ever and I'm not just saying that because she is my sister) are getting a pug puppy. They are currently brainstorming names for a little pug puppy girl and would love some suggestions. Any ideas?

You Is Kind, You Is Smart, You Is Important

Every since seeing The Help, my mom will call and/or text my sisters and I simply saying, "You is kind, you is smart, you is important." Whenever I hear this memorable line I immediately smile and feel good. While browsing on Etsy I came across this adorable painting and just had to share it. Repeating self-affirmations such as this one can impact the subconscious mind and trigger it to take a positive shift. In order to effectively do this you must repeat affirmations with attention, focus and conviction. Just how using "cancel, cancel" helps stop a negative thought, self-affirmations can also change your thinking.
Affirmations should be short and in the present tense. Repeat them when your mind isn't on overload. A good time for me is when I walk to and from work. Mine for today is, "I radiate good energy and happiness". Start tomorrow morning with a powerful affirmation and feel good!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/95510785/12x12-canvas-sign-you-is-kind-you-is

Good to Eat - Rigatoni with Squash and Prawns

Eric was away for the weekend golfing so I decided to brave the kitchen (alone) and make him dinner when he got home. Most of my cooking experience has been a joint activity where I act as sous chef - so this was a big step for me. This recipe was right up my alley because it didn't have a million ingredients and was easy. After picking up butternut squash and prawns from my favorite neighborhood spot, Eataly, I was ready to get started. Eric was blown away and loved the dish. It is the perfect recipe for summer. I have to say I am becoming quite the little chef! The recipe is from Giada's new book, Giada's Kitchen. 

Ingredients
*Makes 4 to 6 servings
6 Tbsp olive oil
1 pound butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp salt
3/4 ground black pepper
1 cup vegetable stock
1 pound rigatoni
1 pound prawns, peeled and deveined
3/4 to 1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup grated Parmesan

Warm 3 Tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butternut squash, garlic, salt and black pepper. Saute until the squash is golden and tender (5 to 7 minutes). Add the vegetable stock, bring to a simmer, cover and cook until the squash is soft (5 to 7 minutes). Transfer the squash mixture to a blender and puree.  

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (8 to 10 minutes). Drain the pasta. 
Warm the remaining 3 Tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the prawns with the remaining 1 tsp of salt and remaining 1/2 tsp of freshly ground black pepper. Add the prawns to the pan and cook until pink (3 minutes).  

In a large pot over low heat combine the cooked pasta, pureed squash and 3/4 cup milk. Stir to combine. Add the cooked prawns, basil and cheese. Stir until warm and serve. 

Enjoy!

Moonbeams & Mayhem

Inspired by the "super moon" lighting up the sky tonight. This will be the biggest and brightest moon of the year so after a night of Cinco de Mayo debauchery remember to stop and take in this sight. The heightened energy from the moon will definitely impact our psyches, feelings and emotions so don't be surprised if you feel a little out of sorts. Astrologist Lynn Hayes says, "This Scorpio full moon is all about delving deep into the mysteries where the truth lies unexposed in its raw and most real form. The astrological moon represents our emotions and feelings - it shows where we retreat to when we are under stress and our instinctive reactions that are unencumbered by and sense of what others expect. This full moon is a time of courage and raw power. Let go of the superficial - let go of any illusions of who you think you are." 
Sounds like a good time for a little self reflection.

Moonbeams&Mayhem by ldewind featuring brass jewelry

Friends with Flare - Meet Eunice

Where I work is a fashion dream. Every day (even Friday) people dress to impress. The attire is exceptional and the elevator (and cafeteria) is always full of people rockin' designer duds and killer outfits. I try to never take fashion too seriously, have fun with it and wear what makes me feel good. Starting today Im going to feature a weekly post showcasing my fashionably fun friends. 

Say hi to Eunice Kim, Strategic Partnership Manager at W magazine. A long while back she was my superstar intern in LA. She is a California girl new to NYC with an exceptional eye for style. 

Isn't she adorable? Coat: Rebecca Minkoff, Blazer: Helmut Lang, Shirt: Kain, Pants: J.Brand, Shoes: Marc by Marc Jacobs, Watch: Hamilton, Necklace: Jennifer Meyer, Glasses: Oliver Peoples, Purse: Balenciaga, Nailpolish (pale purple can't see in the photos): Essie To Buy or Not To Buy

InspireNow with Tamy - Make a Date with FUN

I've been thinking a lot about life being about the journey and not the destination. This week I would love for you to go back to a time when fun was a priority and make it a point to have fun every single day. We all get so caught up in life, deadlines, the never ending to do list and doing for others that we forget to enjoy ourselves for a bit each day. Think of one FUN thing to do everyday this week. It doesn't need to be complicated just make sure it feels good, delights your spirit and puts a twinkle in your eye. This is your life so take charge and you will see that small moments of play can rejuvenate you in the most amazing ways.

Your intention this week is: I will do one thing a day that lights me up, has no goal attached but to stimulate myself, makes me smile and shakes me from my routine. Have fun with this!

Magical Moab

My sister Taylor lives in Aspen, Colorado. With friends they packed up and drove to Moab, Utah. Moab is a red rock playground that would excite any adventurist. Located in the desert it is unlike any place in the world. Seeing her pics reminded me of one of my favorite backpacking trips in Canyonlands National Park, Moab during high school. 

For over a week, carrying a 40+ pound backpack, we trekked through canyon mazes and slept under natural arches made from sandstone. It’s a magical place where every turn and twist of the canyons brings a new surprise. On our trip we hiked through water, shimmied up steep slick rock and used ropes to help conquer difficult terrain, all while feeling the desert heat. I wish I would have taken pictures from this trip. I'm adding to my universe list a trip where we connect with nature, get outdoors and rough it up a little bit. Moab in 2013? I am thinking YES.

Cave living

Canyon shimmy

Love Nest

Whether you are dating, single or married it is important that your bedroom invites and attracts LOVE. Here are some simple Feng Shui techniques that welcome LOVE (or spice it up) rather than keeping it away.

Remove Clutter: clutter creates negativity. Clear out spaces so there is room to welcome in the new. While you are tossing, throw away any items from your exes. Say goodbye to old t-shirts, photos, love notes.

 
Headboard Placement: the headboard should be positioned against a wall. Try and avoid having your headboard on a window as this can create restless sleeping.

Photo credit: West Elm

Perfect Pair: place your accessories in pairs (2 vases, 2 side tables, etc.) so everything is balanced. This also tells your brain that the bedroom is made for two people. 
Photo Credit: Turquoise Blog

Visuals: artwork that depicts a pair or two of something symbolizes and attracts love. Remove anything depressing, no more sad colors or pictures of single images.
Photo credit: Elle Decor

Bed Position: from the position you sleep in you should be able to see the door but make sure your bed does not directly face the door or a toilet.

Color Story: choose warm colors that create a soothing atmosphere like neutrals, yellow and coral. This picture also shows how you should place your bed where you can see the door but not directly in front of it.
Photo credit: House Beautiful

Hello Happiness: place positive, vibrant, romantic images in these two key places 1)wall opposite the foot of the bed 2)whatever area you see when you first enter the room.
Photo Credit: Z Gallerie

Token of Love: add items that represent love such as rose quartz crystals and flowers. Also remember to spritz your Lavender Love Spray.












Don't Overdo It: Try not to scare away new love prospects by making your apartment overly feminine or masculine.
Photo credit: Country Living

Technology No No: I admit I have a TV in our room (my husband insists). Your TV, iPhone and computer all distract you from shutting off and getting a good night sleep or focusing on your significant other. Try to put your phone in the other room when sleeping and cover the TV with a cloth at night.
Photo credit: CB2