Another Marvelous Birthday
January 18, 2010
January 17th is my birthday, and this was a marvelous one! Growing up I have always loved dressing up and making every little simple event of the day an occasion. Even something as simple as putting things away in the house while dressed up in a gorgeous outfit is that much more fabulous.
This year I wore a favorite dress of mine, one I have posted about in the past for the same occasion, lol, and enjoyed a rather relaxed day. I don’t often wear the same dress for an occasion, but I couldn’t help myself as this dress just makes me feel fabulous and felt perfect for the day even now. Part of it is remembering the old while bringing it into the now for creating more great memories.
This year my birthday actually began with a fabulous event the evening before, which ran all the way into the beginning of my birthday- love it! So at midnight I was surrounded by friends welcoming in the grand new day. Later on, after having some sleep and getting ready for the day ahead, I was surprised by my hunny with these BEAUTIFUL flowers you see pictured below. I love them!
And for lunch- burgers, in a beautiful dress. Seriously, messy comfort food (delicious by the way) in an elaborate dress rocks. It just does.
After that it was time for a cigar fit for the occasion, an AVO Companero, and then a night filled with libations! Birthday cakes are overrated when you have a beautifully crafted cocktail in hand. I started with a Ramos Gin Fizz which consists of gin, egg whites, cream, lime, and orange blossom water. It couldn’t have been more perfect! Talk about a birthday drink in a glass, it was smooth and heavenly.
Since my birthday unexpectedly started with celebrations the night before, I decided to continue some of that celebration into today. After all, why not? ;D
With plans for a nice dinner in the next few days, I thought I would enjoy today with a very nice cigar; one that I find quite ideal in balance and flavor. It is what I adore in a cigar, just perfect and rounded out the occasion. Also, the band matches my nails perfectly… a stylish extra.
It’s funny how when you don’t make plans for your birthday, somehow they can just magically happen on their own. It was a day, well a few days, of relaxation and pure enjoyment. I hope your birthdays are marvelous, stylish, and memorable ones, too! I know I am feeling very grateful and blessed.
For me, a great birthday comes from being with those you love while treating yourself to the luxuries you enjoy most in life, which for me means dressing up, enjoying a fine meal, a special drink, and a great cigar. What are the must-do luxuries for you?
Nom, Gotta Love “The Chocolate Bar”
June 14, 2009
Ah, “where every hour is happy hour” as they say at the local Chocolate Bar here. There is nothing like walking in and being surrounded by the smell of chocolate- so decadent and yummy!
We were making a quick stop at a book shop when we found that they recently opened another “The Chocolate Bar” right next door. Of course, I would have to make a quick visit inside- it just wouldn’t be right to ignore such a chance. I sometimes forget this place exists, especially since their original location is not on a street I frequently pass. But whenever I see the sign, I must make a point to stop for a moment and indulge.
Beyond the smell, just looking at all the lovely selection they offer is a treat. The hard part is deciding which chocolate gems will be the one for the moment. From my experience here so far, they are all very delicious and it is difficult to go wrong. I tend to prefer the dark chocolate selections best as it is my favorite. Dark chocolate and blackberries = nom!
This is a fun spot and definitely worth a visit or two if you haven’t been to one already. They have more chocolate options such as ice cream and cookies- but for me it’s the small bite size options that appeal to me the most.
A Decadent Port To Love, The Grandfather Tawny
June 5, 2009
Mmmm, I love a port and this one is exceptional. Definitely a special treat I always look forward to indulging in. I’m delighted any time I find it on a menu, this is a true luxury to me.
The Penfolds Grandfather Tawny Port is something that has to be experienced, it is so rich and smooth with a perfect balance and texture that blends beautifully on the tongue. It is almost like honey and has tastes of raisins, nuts and toffee, with a hint of vanilla near the finish. And it is a beautiful, long finish. It is like candy, but don’t think that it is overly sweet or thick- that isn’t the case at all. It truly is a beautiful balance that must be tasted to be appreciated.
The aroma is heavenly, it makes me smile just to smell it. It is so lovely.
It is called “the Grandfather” to honor the tradition in 1915 when an oak cask that contained a blend of the finest tawnies they had in their possession was set aside and reserved for the Penfold family only. The “Grandfather” refers to the age of the oldest tawnies in the blend and the style you see now is of this same tradition, produceing a decadent and harmonious balance.
This is one that is worth the price when and if you come across it- I highly recommend giving this beautiful tawny a taste. What a beautiful way to enjoy and remember an evening. Cheers.
A Love Of Cigars: Sneak Peak
May 30, 2009
I do love a nice cigar- so full of flavor and so wonderful to indulge in for those special occasions. As you know, I greatly believe in making my own occasions and so I do love to have my cigars fairly often. I make my own moments, with fashion as much as with food, and cigars and spirits very much among them.
Last night was one of those nights in which we felt like celebrating! I have some new gems I picked up to keep the luxury coming-I’ll let you in on a sneak peak for now and keep you informed more on them later. But last night was a special treat, and so I had a very lovely cigar in hand: The Oliva Serie V Double Robosto.
What a beautiful cigar, so wonderful I had to pick up another one this afternoon to have again soon. Everything about it is just right and what I love in a cigar, the flavors are magnificent. So smooth and rich with those dark tones- my dark chocolate lovers will appreciate this one, I know it.
I found these fine cigars at the Richmond Avenue Cigar shop for those of you who travel through Houston, a very fine shop with the people, humidor, selection and care you want. I love a place that looks over the details, and this is definitely the place.
I’ll be having more lovelies for you soon. I have some special plans for my Cabaiguan Cigar pictured at the end- ah the familiar tastes of my Miami. I have a great pairing in mind for that little gem, ooh yes!
Alright, loves- some fashionable and classic cocktails coming to you tomorrow, including a decadent delight of the 1920’s! Cocktail lovers, stay tuned.
Some Looks Into Last Night With Cigars
May 26, 2009
I love what I love- and enjoy balancing my indulgences in pleasurable amounts. It keeps them special and appreciated. Those who know me know that I love my food and drinks as much as I do my fashion; I like to appreciate all the small details that go into something, whatever it may be. Of my loves, cigars definitely appear on the scene. And always with friends, wonderful drinks, and lasting memories.
There is something so relaxing and delicious about a cigar that the experience itself is the reward, for me. They seem to highlight events and successes and increase the bond between you and your guests.
Keep in mind that you never inhale a cigar- I’ve never been a smoker of cigarettes or ever cared to, but I do love my occasional and delightful cigar. They are two very different worlds.
So the other night at Anvil, when we unexpectedly ran into some dear friends- after having many delightful drinks we decided to make an event of the evening and enjoy some cigars outside. We had some on us just in case, it felt like a night of celebrating which is why we went to Anvil in the first place.
I have been enjoying the Habano Nub cigars lately- very impressive, they pull like a full cigar for their size and are very tasty. Beautiful construction.
It seems whenever I find out that a friend of ours enjoys cigars, the bonds become tighter and the stories that unfold are so wonderful. It is always a very happy and relaxing experience that leaves room for new ones to come.
Just thought I would share another glimpse into the other evening with you, I feel you are all so close to me it is only right that I include you in these moments, too.
I have some new cigars waiting for an occasion to come up, and will let you know what they are and how they taste as the time comes. They will have their moment. In the mean time, I have some fabulous fashion posts coming up that you will love- see you tomorrow!
Anvil: A Modern Tradition
May 24, 2009
Anvil is what I want and look for in a bar- classic traditional cocktails made by proud and talented bartenders. The look is rustic yet modern with a classic and timeless feel, and the details go far.
Like the glassware for instance- vintage glassware that adds charm to each cocktail that is ordered. Bartenders take pride in their work and create wonderful cocktails you truly can enjoy. The environment is wonderful, as is the staff- welcoming and like a moment of time from the past living here in the now. This is a must indulge for the cocktail admirer, or for anyone looking to relax in a timeless and classic fashion.
The ice is perfect; the crafting of libations are done precisely and elegantly like the art it is. When I first walked in and saw a shelf devoted to bitters I knew I was in the right place.
The bartenders have my respect, I love to let them make the drinks they love and introduce me to new and wonderful drinks. Our bartender kept our orders in mind and recommended new ones for us to try based on the styles we had been enjoying- I love that. The attention to detail and pride is a beautiful balance.
Last night was our first visit, and we were pleased to see a menu of cocktail specials which changed on a daily basis. I started my evening with a cocktail by the name of “Smitten” -how could I pass that up? It consisted of Gin, Campari, Lemon, and mint- very refreshing and very lovely. I could see this one being a marvelous drink by the pool on a warm summer day.
From there I moved on to “The Darb” which was composed of Apricot Brandy, French Vermouth, Gin, and Lemon. A very delicious drink indeed- the apricot brandy gave a nice smooth finish after a crisp and refreshing beginning. The texture of the ice danced perfectly along side it, too.
Now, I was too busy enjoying my first cocktail to take a picture- as was Timothy with his “Sazerac” which composed of Rye, Absinthe, Campari and a lemon twist. Though it looked like a cosmo in appearance, after a quick taste you knew this was no girlie drink. I loved it- but I like a strong drink. Timothy did too, but definitely an interesting drink to start the night with. This was lovely, smooth and with a bite that was pleasant to me, but could be considered harsh to others. I’d have this one later in the evening.
From there, he moved on to the “Negroni” which was composed of Gin, Sweet Vermouth, Campari, and Bitters. Sebastian, our bartender, recommended this one to us off the menu- and what a lovely choice.
It was at this point that we found out how small of a world it is- a we were welcomed by friends who happened to already be there! We were fortunate to taste a grand variety of cocktails between all of us- including a sip of a “Gin Fizz” made to perfection and a “Gin Gin Moscow Mule” that was very refreshing!
As the night progressed we found a new favorite- the “Corn N Oil” which was composed of Blackstrap Rum, Falernum, and Angostura Bitters. This one is *fabulous* and a perfect drink to finish an evening with. I love everything about this drink- and it was made beautifully with the right amount of sweetness, not overpowering in the least. The first sip reminded me of a port , which I love, but in a beautifully crafted cocktail. Definitely a must!
For me, I decided to end the evening with an old treat I used to love having in Miami (this bar was making me feel at home and reminded me of my old home). And so I finished the night with a “Caiprihana”- which I’ve posted on in the past as a love of mine that is refreshing when your sitting by the ocean.
This brazilian cocktail has become more popular across the US which is lovely to see. And being in a place where I had bartenders I could trust, I was very excited to order this drink.
A fabulous end to a remarkable evening. We definintely will be frequenting this treasure of a bar and look forward to the wonderful times ahead.
I am calling it a “Modern Tradition” because it is one of the timeless treasures that needs a modern embrace- and with places such as this one opening, it is a fond piece of history and memories reintroduced to modern times for a new and modern tradition.
Find out more about Anvil at their website: http://www.anvilhouston.com or follow them on twitter via one of the co-owners, @Bobby_Heugel . If you are ever in Houston, this is a must visit wonderland.
For The Love Of Cheese
May 15, 2009
I ♥ cheese. I truly do- and during my last shopping adventure I was fortunate enough to taste some lovely cheeses to take home and indulge in. Wow, these are exceptional… two of which make a magnificent dessert!
From rich and creamy to crumbly and potent, these are some wonderful cheeses to love.
First up on our plate is the Bucherondin, a cheese made from Goat’s milk that is truly exceptional. The gentleman working in the cheese section stated that he would have this cheese as a dessert- simply put on a plate and drizzled with some orange honey.
Wow, I can only imagine how it would be with the honey- but honesty it is magnificent on its own! Don’t let the brie like appearance fool you- though it has a creamy coating (that can be eaten by the way) the cheese itself is quite chalky in texture, much like feta.
But it is rich enough to where it dances between chalky and creamy in the mouth- it is heavenly and a delicious treat. This is a mild flavored cheese, nothing too intense to frighten away or alarm you, I think the balance is just perfect here.
This gorgeous, creamy, delicious cheese is a cow’s milk cheese from France called Delice De Bourgogne from Licet. It is a Triple Cream Soft Ripened Cheese (oh, I do love the tripple creams… they can be very potent though mind you). Let’s look at it again, shall we?
I know, I know- it looks like butter:
And the consistency is rich and satisfying like butter- wow this cheese, along with the bucherondin, are new favorites of mine that I cannot get out of my mind. They are lovely.
This one in particular has a lovely character of sweetness and just the slightest tang or sourness to keep things interesting. It is a subtle bite- so subtle you might even miss it, nothing overpowering just a beautiful melting of flavors.
The flavor is more distinct than the Bucherondin, as is common with triple creams. If you ever run across this little gem, you surely will not be dissapointed.
Up next is the Campo De Montalban, a Spanish cheese with a very distinct taste and surprising texture. What distinguishes this cheese most from the others is the tripple blend- a marvelous blending of cow’s milk, sheep’s milk, and goat’s milk. On appearance, it resembles a Manchego and slices with a similar consistency and texture. But once you place it in your mouth, it becomes creamy with a distinct but wonderful flavor.
Something about cheeses from sheep and goats have this distinct taste- some call it gamey, and it can vary in potency. This one here was perfect- just subtle enough to give intrigue and satisfy and not overpower at all. The blend works perfectly to create an amazing balance and texture.
I highly recommend this cheese as much as I do the two above, if you are new to being adventerous with cheese this one may be a good cheese to start with. Truly a treat- indulge when you are able to.
I saved the potent cheese for last- the Roth Kase Gruyere Surchoix. This is unlike most gruyeres which are mild in taste and texture- this one is *extremely* sharp!
It is called “Surchoix” meaning top choice because after nine months of aging, the celler master hand selects the finest ones.
This hard cheese is very robust and highly concentrated with flavor- it is nutty, earthy, and just the right hints of sweetness to bring it all together. This one is strong- and for the stinky cheese lover.
Wow, what wonderful cheeses, I cannot get them out of my mind they are all so lovely. Any of these would make a fine choice and I highly recommend tasting them for yourself.
Much love and a great love of cheese- xx
Duchesse De Bourgogne, A Lovely Taste
May 10, 2009
Each and every time I stroll through the many isles of Total Wine & Spirits, I cannot help but taste a new Belgium beer. There are so many unique single bottle options available, though I love my classics I always love to indulge in new tastes.
During my last visit, a new bottle caught my eye called “Duchesse De Bourgogne” which is also known as “The Burgundies of Belgium”. It fed into my curiosity and so a taste was needed.
Immediately upon opening and pouring, the first smell is strong of dark molasses. It reminded me of childhood when I would wander into the kitchen and smell the delicious spices of freshly baked dark gingerbread. Rarely do I get to indulge in such a wonderful smell, and with this beer the tone was perfect. So beautiful and reminiscent, I longed for my first taste.
Duchesse de Bourgogne is a reddish-brown ale from the West Flanders region of Belgium, top fermented, and carefully matured in oak casts.
It is purely natural and unpasteurized, leaving a full clean and beautiful taste. The aroma and tastes returned me to my loves of childhood, but in a grown up and matured fashion. It is so lovely and pure, and elegantly presented. The texture is light to medium and balances well against the fragrance of the nose.
I purchased a small bottle here for a first taste, but am anxious to try it again in it’s full bottle- cork included, naturally. I love the stylings of a Belgium beer, and this one is a lovely discovery.
If you have a love for dark and rich freshly baked gingerbread- this beer will take you back and reward your taste buds lovingly. I definitely recommend it and look forward to another taste!
Uni & Sake Heaven
May 4, 2009
We are having a lovely day in Sarasota before heading back home tomorrow afternoon- and when in Sarasota, one of our favorite treats is Saijo restaurant in the Lakewood ranch area. If you find yourself nearby one day, you absolutely must indulge in this fabulous place- everything from the food to the people who run this fine establishment are absolutely marvelous!
So each time we are here we like to try something different, whether it be something that catches our eye on the menu or simply by recommendation from the owners. This time it was the menu. Now, I *love* uni, sea urchin makes for a perfect “dessert” after a lovely Japanese meal. It is so lovely, the texture just melts in your mouth and is a distinguished taste. I’ve always thought of uni like the (warm & fresh) fois gras taste of the sea.
But we saw uni offered within a shot of sake. Hmm, this sounds yummy!
Without any hesitation we ordered and anxiously awaited the arrival. We weren’t sure what to expect- would the sake overpower the uni, would it be harsh or would it be smooth? We would soon find out (and find a new delightful treat)!
Presentation is clean, simple, and lovely- and for us does not last too long. We admire it quickly and indulge in our shot-
wow, lovely!
The sake is cool and very refreshing after our meal. It is very smooth with just the slightest sweet finish, and as the sake’s presence vanishes off the tongue the uni’s delicate flavor becomes more pronounced. The balance and play of tastes on the tongue is magnificent and what you would look for.
Just wanted to share this quick and beautiful little gem with you before I return home with new and fabulous posts. I have some very exciting ones coming up, including revealing my 1920’s vintage wedding dress find and some new chic and luxurious styles. Speak with you soon, loves!
Celebrating With A Yummy Sauvignon Blanc
April 20, 2009
Last night my hunny and I finally indulged in our latest gorgeous accessory, the wine refrigerator. And naturally, we selected some new wine purchases to go with our beautiful new toy.
We had been looking at wine refrigerators for some time, however could not come across one that wasn’t too big or too small and included two chambers, one for our whites and one for our reds. The ones we did like were never in stock, so the hunt continued until we finally came across one we loved and jumped on it!
And so to celebrate, we began with a bottle of Nobilo, a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc that is absolutely wonderful. I love New Zealand sauv blancs, they have that crisp, citrus style I love about a sauvignon blanc; and this one is marvelous (as is the price at only $11).
We went through this bottle rather quickly over dinner, and decided to follow with some dessert. Now, I do have a new eiswien I have been meaning to try, but this time we opted for a rose we picked up for a fun taste.
Now, when I think of rose one of my favorites comes to mind- the Belle Glos Pinot Noir Blanc, if you haven’t tried it go pick it up now you will love it! Yes, it is a fabulously pink bottle and you cannot miss it, but the taste is sure to please!
But this was something different, something fun- and something very sweet. It was perfect for dessert, with a fruity taste dense in strawberries. It was very smooth and soft, and rich in sweet fruity flavor. We picked up the bottle on a whim, just to see how it would be and I have to say we enjoyed ourselves.
The bottle is what caught our eye this time as well, and with a further glance at the label we were intrigued and delighted to give it a taste.
We even brought out the wine glasses we were given as a beautiful gift for Christmas- and they are lovely! Just the thing to also celebrate our new wine refrigerator. Am looking forward to many more, I’ll let you know when we open our first red from the fridge. A Burgundy maybe? We shall see.
Happy Anniversary Pretty & Fabulous! Wow,
April 17, 2009
Wow, has it truly been a year already? It was around this day one year ago that it all began- Pretty and Fabulous! Wine, shoes, accessories, dresses, hairstyles, food, and even heavenly beers- it all started then.
I am delighted to bring new inspirations and ideas as well as lovely tastes to indulge in, but today I am going to reflect in some of the posts of the past and let you indulge as well.
What are your favorite posts? What are your favorite styles of posts?
Talk to me, and let me know what you love the most. I love hearing from you as you are a part of this place, too!
Be speaking with you soon, loves. xx
A Love Of Winter Patterns & Tights
April 6, 2009
Or maybe now it is more like spring’s winter love- with the cool breezes showing up here lately one would hardly know the difference. Maybe spring got a little jealous, yet with the warm sunshine it makes for a lovely and welcoming cool day.
Cool enough to get me to bring out my tights once again- a fun fashion style opportunity I am always eager to indulge in. Tights can do so much to the most simple of outfits, and when patterns are involved the possibiliites are even grander.
Colors? Love them, and I’ll even admit to my turquoise, magenta, blue, and other rich filled opaque collection of tights. With color, the look is definitely a bold one. However today I wanted something more classic with a playful twist. Black is as classic as it gets, so when you involve a pattern into the look it will almost always be fabulous.
And so these are a fun favorite I like to wear when the weather is as lovely (and cool) as it is. Something about black on black prints on tights are great to me- I have another that are sheer black with dark black stripes running vertically as the print- such a small detail but the look is very bold. With color you expect it, but with black and sheer, it has an entirely different attitude.
Here’s to having fun with prints on tights while the weather allows for it- make it grand 
