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?
Accessory Love: A Perfect Match!
October 19, 2009
Don’t you love it when you unexpectedly come across an accessory that matches one of your own, in color and in texture? It can be a rare treat, but one that will last a long time within your fashion wardrobe.
Just the other day, yet again at Target, before heading to the checkout I decided to take a glimpse into their bags and scarfs. I wasn’t really expecting to purchase anything, but then there it was, this bag. Shimmering just subtly in the light, and in the exact same style as my Michael Kors shoes which I love so dearly.
I didn’t have to question it, just accepted that it was meant to be. Even more so when you consider the price- only ten dollars, ha. What a treat!
Now, the shoes had a much higher price on them, but that is part of the beauty of this find. It makes for a rich combination- style is determined by personal style and not by price. There is no one and only, but what makes you happy and what you feel confident wearing. Sometimes it is a treat to spurge on a luxury items, other times they find us at a bargain. It doesn’t matter- they are all fabulous finds.
When something matches this well, I like to play it carefully. Normally I’ll let these two items be the only things that match in my outfit, keeping the rest very simple. I think the matching stands out more without being overpowering. You want to compliment it. But every now and then I’ll get in a mood to go all out.
When I go all out- I’m looking for consistancy in color (kind of like all black) and keeping the focus on the shape and silhouette. Matching takes some strategy to get the look to work just right. And I think I’ll be having some serious fun with these two accessories together.
IZZE, A Nom Treat!
July 11, 2009
Izze is one of my favorite refreshing treats, and yet the first time I noticed the name and brightly colored box I had always avoided it thinking it to be one of the many energy drinks. After all, the can size matches them and even with its bright colors it blends in with the others.
But then one day the word “clementine” caught my eye and I decided to explore it further. Looking at the ingredients, I was pleasantly surprised and had to give it a try- I love it! It is so refreshing and absolutely delicious.
Simply fruit juices and sparkling water, no preservatives or other nonsense. Not to mention it is the perfect size- not too much, just a great taste. It is great for those cravings, too- I like the bubbles of a soda but not so much the syrup taste or texture, it bothers me after a while. But with this- no worries, it is just a crisp clean flavor. nom!
I’ve tried as many as I can get my hands on- when I find something I love I want to try them all. So far the clementine and grapefruit ones are my favorite, though the lime izze in the glass bottle is also very heavenly. I love that natural tartness.
I’m starting to see IZZE show up in more places now which is great, I’ve been having to hunt for them on my own for a while now. I am always determined to have some in the house.
On another note- I bet it would taste GREAT mixed for a cocktail, especially the sparkling grapefruit. Will be trying that sometime soon, too! This could definitely lead to some refreshing cocktails. Yummy.
I Heart Target’s GO International Collection: Gorgeous New Dress!
July 2, 2009
Target continues to give me more reasons to keep visiting, and the fact that my style can grow without spending a fortune is a lovely treat. Many of their new styles look so rich and elegant you would never imagine the tag attached to them, and it doesn’t matter. As long as you look and feel pretty and fabulous then that is all that matters.
I discovered this dress the other day and wow, what a find. I’ll be posting some pictures up here too so you can see the detail-(my camera died on me! Must wait for it to charge) but in the meantime I was able to put up a video so you can get a feel of this glamorous dress!
The material feels like heaven, so light and silky, and moves beautifully with every step. This is something I look for in my clothes. Design plays a lot into how a dress will fit, look, move, and feel. And this one performs beautifully.
Enjoy the video for now, I’ll see if I can update with photos later 
Loving The Cocktails, Mmm…
June 17, 2009
The following post has been presented for your viewing pleasure! Some cocktails just make your mouth water staring into them, these are definitly strong candidates, talk about yummy.
I could take a bath in this first one, it is so lovely. And it is a nice balance- you cannot identify any of the ingredients since nothing overpowers another, they just blend perfectly for a unique, clean, crisp and delightful taste. I don’t know all the ingredients in this one, but I do know that gin, pineapple, and a sage leaf are involved. This drink, called the “first growth” is perfect for any occasion or mood.
Next, how about a glass of “paradise”? Also a very refreshing number, the citrus is beautiful in this aperitif. With freshly squeezed orange juice, apricot brandy, and gin- this classic cocktail is easly found to be a paradise indeed.
Next up we have a mystery cocktail- and by that I mean something the bartenders came up with after having some fun in the bar. We were fortunate enough to be included in these games with a glass of our very own to enjoy. And it was a welcoming treat. I love the look of perfect ice cubes- such attention to detail. Being this was a surprise, I couldn’t tell you the ingredients so you’ll just have to enjoy with your eyes on this one.
And I’ll finish off with a dessert cocktail, which clearly this one is and a very yummy one at that. The classic “Brandy Alexander” for your sweetest dreams. With brandy, creme de cacao, half-and-half/heavy cream, and nutmeg this is a luxurious way to finish an evening. So rich and smooth!
All of these cocktails were enjoyed at Anvil and prepared by our favorite bartender, Sebastian- he always selects and creates the best cocktails for me. Gotta love that!
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 Cocktails And Another Night At Anvil
May 31, 2009
Mmmm, I do love my cocktails- and the other night we had a real treat with some classic and beautiful cocktails at Anvil. These are beauties I look forward to having again soon.
With a place like this, I like to let the bartender select my drinks for me. This is their skill and I want them to have fun with it- I am the same way with my chef’s and their food. I am here to enjoy their talent with good tastes. Sebastian, our bartender we seek out by request, made some fantastic selections for me!
For instance, the Jack Rose- a classic cocktail of the 1920′s and 1930′s. What a lovely cocktail! Made with Applejack, Grenadine and Lemon juice, this may be a favorite of mine. It is so lovely with the right balance of flavor and texture. Enjoying it out of a vintage glass only adds more of the charm.
Another lovely drink from that same era would be The Last Word- love the name and the cocktail (pictured below). What a delicious beverage with a nice little hint of spice in the finish. I love the tartness of citrus, especially when it has the right balance, and a little spice can blend beautifully.
The Last Word consists of Gin, Lime Juice, Green Chartreuse, and Maraschino Liqueur- nom! Very refreshing, crisp, and delicious. A lovely way to begin an evening- the flavors just blend and melt so beautifully in your mouth.
This is one I could see myself having quite reguarly, it is perfect for any mood or event. I keep thinking about it, delicious!
Here we have the Smitten cocktail, which I had mentioned previously but had forgotten to take a photo of. I was prepared this time and captured this refreshing drink. I think this one would be so perfect by the pool on a warm day- the mint in this cocktail is delightful without being overpowering at all.
This cocktail consists of Gin, Campari, Lemon, and Mint. And it tastes as pretty as it looks.
And the final act was a beautiful one that tastes just as heavenly and dreamy as it looks- The Vanishing Act! Wow, this one is so lovely and rich in texture- yet light and welcoming, what a fantastic way to finish the evening.
Now, unfortunately with this one- I was not by it when it was made and don’t know of what it all consists of. The egg whites and bitters is all I can tell you- but I do plan on having this gem again next time I visit and returning home with the ingredients. So lovely!
All this writing has me ready for a cocktail, nom- speak with you soon, loves!
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.
