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On Saturday, Mase and I set up the Roku box* that arrived last week.

Even for me, the electronically challenged, I was able to connect the box and get it going within minutes.

I knew it streamed Netflix to my tv, but had no idea I could buy movies on Amazon Video, access the stations on my Pandora account, and get channels from a few other web networks.  Unfortunately the box can’t play all of the movies Netflix has avaialbe; only 140 are at your fingertips on the “Instant Queue.”  The selection is mediocre, but you’re sure to find something that isn’t in your DVD library.

Like Heros!  The Netflix queue has the entire first season.  Mase and I have never seen the show everyone raves about so it was the obvious choice.  We planned on watching a couple of episodes, but if you’ve ever seen Heros, you know it can be addictive.  So one episode led to another….and we passed out after 6…..

The next morning I was ready to take Mason out for a walk, press some coffee, turn on Meet The Press, but he gave me the eye that said, “I ain’t movin’ until we finish Episode 6.”

So he got his way, then I had mine.

A lovely, lazy weekend over here.  Hope you enjoyed yours.

More to come on the Roku box after I explore other channels.

(*Full Disclosure: Roku sent over a test box that I will return after I’ve written a review.)

Original Article

Woven Leather!

Espadrille Wedges!

Studded Cuffs!

Two-tone Metals!

OH MY!

Spring styles you’ll want in your wardrobe.  Don’t want to splurge for the real deal?  Not to worry, you’ll see variations of these trends all over the place.

(Top to bottom: Elizabeth and James, Christian Louboutin, Balmain, Valentino.  All at Neiman Marcus Beverly Hills. Contact Charles for more info.)

Original Article

Not watching tv and rarely surfing the web for news, I always feel out of the loop with world events.  So last week I downloaded the CNN iPhone application to catch up while on the go.  I thought to myself, “I hope I check this regularly.  It’s too easy not to.”

The great thing is, I don’t have to remember.  The app sends me an alert via text message when important news breaks so I know it’s time to click the app or turn on the tv.

The texts are efficient and not intrusive at all - it just sends the major headlines. This morning I found out about the Chilean earthquake at 5am, and just now I  see that Hawaii is being evacuated because of a threat of a tsunami.  Last week, I watched Tiger address the nation on their livestream with only a 30 second delay.

I hate to say “I am enjoying” the app because usually the news is not positive, but I am definitely more informed.

Although the app is not free, it’s worth the 199 pennies.

Original Article

Is that weird?

Many people in today’s society don’t believe that true love exist or is nothing more than an old wives’ tale from our forefathers. Well, I still believe that soul mates aren’t a facade at the end of the relationship tunnel.

Remember when you were growing up and your grandparents would tell you stories from their relationship that had lasted over 50 years?  I always thought wow, am I going to be able to find that woman when I haven’t been able to date someone for over a couple of years?

In today’s world we have placed other priorities in front of finding our soul mate, whether it be work, personal achievements, hobbies, or travel, LOVE has taken a back seat in many of our lives.  And that’s ok.  I’m not saying to spend each day searching, that’s ludicrous; you’d drive yourself crazy. But it’s important to keep your eyes open and notice opportunities when they are in front of you. In fact, when “Love at first site” happens a human’s eyes actually dilate (Via OMGFACTS). But, I feel like some people need to be smacked in the face before they realize they are staring at the person they want to love for life.  It’s all a matter of priorities.

I will tell you I have not yet experienced a deep love, but I am definitely open and ready for it. Seriously, “the male model” doesn’t have to be the player who breaks your heart.  I think you know me well enough by now to realize that’s not me.  Admittedly, it took the wisdom of age (very Scorpio of me) to recognize I never really saw the importance or the impact on your life love has.

One of my favorite stories of true love is that of my mother and step-father.  He was the cool, single guy,  and didn’t need anything or anyone else.  Being single until the age of 30 in the south, he probably had lost some hope (I would have started to anyway).  Only when he met my mother did he realize life could reach that next level of happiness unless she was a part of it. When he asked for my mother’s hand when I was 8 yrs old, I was part of the package deal and grinning from ear to ear. Now, 18 yrs later, they are still best friends and inseparable.

My second case hits more in my own age group or friend circle.

Last year, one of my best friends, Dr. Neil, called me and asked me to be the best man at his wedding.  And my response was, “to who?”  Apparently they had a long-distance relationship for 6 weeks.  When I heard the story, I of course was hesitant to support this hasty decision.  But he insisted, “ I’ve never felt like this and I know you think I’m crazy but I’m in love with this girl.  Buddy you know how I am with decisions and women, but this, I know in my heart this is the right decision 100%”. At the wedding we all prayed for the best, yet secretly knew  there was no question if they would make it.

Well, this past weekend (8 months later) I had the opportunity of spending an ample amount of time with them as a guest in their home. The love they share is blatantly obvious and stronger than ever, and she is 7 weeks away from giving birth to a beautiful daughter and guess who’s the God Father?…….Yep yours truly!!!

I pray  we all can experience what my family and best friend have one day in our lives. I find hope in knowing someone experienced a love so deep they could write:

“I would rather have had one breath of her hair,one kiss from her mouth, one touch of her hand, that eternity without it”—-City of Angels.

Maybe I will check out Match.com…..

Original Article

A reader is making the move from New York to Santa Monica and asked for my thoughts and tips on the area.  Here is what I wrote in under a minute:

YOU ARE GOING TO LOVE SANTA MONICA!!
Get ready to start loving life!!!

Tips….
Throw away your jackets.
Kidding.

Things I love off the top of my head (aside from the delicious restaurants you’ll discover):

• Keep the light streaming through your home, don’t close it out with curtains or shades.

• Discover all of the great places to exercise outdoors - the strand, the stairs, hiking Temescal canyon.

• The Farmer’s Market on Main street on Sundays for breakfast and fresh veggies.

• Coffee Bean Sugar Free Vanilla Ultimate Iced Coffee in hand, stroll Montana Avenue and peruse the isles in the cute boutiques.

• Join the Equinox, you’ll LOVE the classes and the members are friendly.

• Don’t be afraid to approach people, they’re actually lovely to chat with if you take the initiative.

• Fashion is comfortable, everywhere is casual, don’t try too hard.  Wear bright colors!

• There are a million places to eat healthy and Wild Oats on Montana is sometimes better than Whole Foods for groceries.

• Venture to Abbot Kinney in Venice, every shop and restaurant is so unique.

• Watch the sunset at Casa del Mar in the bar.

• Get a group of friends and sing Karaoke at The Gas Light.

• Blue Print Cleanse should be distributing juices to Exhale Spa soon.

• Ok, I have to mention restaurants! Have lunch at the cafe in Fred Segal, Blue Plate diner, Cafe Montana, The Brentwood Country Mart, Urthe Cafe. For dinner hit up: Cafe Montana, Father’s Office, The Counter, The Ivy, Katsu-ya, Casa del Mar, The Wilshire. I’m missing some, but that’s a good start with the classics.

This should be a good start! Hope it helps!

(Full Disclose: BluePrint Cleanse provides me with free juice.  You can get a 15% discount if you use the code MTMBPC at checkout.)

Original Article

Georgina travels all over the world and exchanges her lovely NYC condo for an expansive pad in the destination of her choice.

Read her experience below.  Sound like a great idea if you’re a homeowner, and with Georgina referring you to the service, you know it’s trustworthy.

georgiegirlnyc:

You’ve heard me mention home exchanges multiple times on my blog.  We first got the idea from our neighbors Jess and Trevor who did a successful home exchange in Rome in 2008.  They used a website called HomeExchange.com™ - the very same one featured in the movie The Holiday.  We had a poke around the website and decided to give it a whirl.

You can send messages to listings that you are interested in and you will also receive messages from other people who have viewed your listing.  Once we find people who are interested in an exchange, we set up a conference call with them to discuss logistics etc.  A number of the places on the website are people’s second homes so you don’t even necessarily have to do a simultaneous exchange.

People often ask us if we are worried about theft or damage.  And the answer is no because firstly, we are also staying in their house with all their stuff and secondly, our doorman would notice if they attempted carrying our 50 inch television out the door.  The conference call also helps us to ascertain whether these people are ‘normal’.  I think maybe in future we might ask for copies of passports just so we know exactly who will be staying in our home.

It sounds great and it is great.  However, let’s be clear.  It only works if:

• You have a nice apartment/house that other people would actually want to stay in.  If you live in a shoebox studio with wallpaper hanging off the walls I think you would have some trouble convincing someone to exchange with you.
• You live in a desirable location.  No one wants to go to middle-of-nowhere, New Jersey.  Everyone wants to go to New York City.

There is an annual fee to list your home (around $200 I think) but other than that there are no other charges.  We’ve had two really fantastic exchanges - one in San Francisco and one in Vail.

Original Article

When I arrived back in H-town and asked friends what new restaurant they were loving, they all had the same answer, “we went to that new Mexican place off Kirby and it’s AMAZING.  One of our new favorites and it has a good crowd.  It’s called Yelapa, you have to go.”

Well ok then.

So on Monday Trey and I went to see what all the fuss was about.  After a three course meal over two hours, I still can’t imagine how Yulapa is the talk of the town.

In my heart I know it was an off night because when I tell you this story, you won’t believe it.

We arrived to a half empty restaurant, but of course we still knew a couple sitting at one of the front tables. They insisted this was one of the best meals they have devoured in a while.  No one would be able to tell they dined on chicken and salmon because their plates were wiped clean. For an appetizer, they shared a guacamole the woman insisted was “unlike any guac you’ve ever laid your lips on.”  One of the ingredients was cinnamon, so this could have been true.

Apparently our table was doomed for failure because our experience wasn’t even close to complimentary.  I’ll try to summarize.  To begin, the waiter served us room temperature chardonnay…twice!  Jay, the manager, came over to apologize, so I told him I would be writing a review (thinking this might get them on their game).  So I wasn’t surprised when LJ Wiley (the Executive Chef who worked with legends like Jean George) came out with a complimentary appetizer.  But I was surprised he would choose raw aged Kobe beef to bestow on guests who ordered all fish.  Either way, the cut was mediocre at best.

We then waited another 20 minutes before receiving the citrus ceviche the waiter had reccommended.  Again, not up to snuff with other local favorites. Although the catch was incredibly fresh, the huge chunks of fish and fruit made it impossible to get a taste of everything on one fork.  When the entrees finally made it to the table, we found the mahi mahi to be cold and overcooked.  The specialty cesaer salad should have been chopped and tossed, but they chose presentation instead of preparation.  Now tragedy strikes.  The flavors of both dishes were truly unique and uplifting instead of heavy.  I wouldn’t refer to either as Mexican because Wiley’s sides and spices added complexity to the classic centerpieces and showed the possibility for perfection.  After we cleaned the plates (out of shear hunger), Jay returned to ask why we didn’t dig into the pork belly that accompanied the fish.  “It really makes the whole dish.  Usually I have to come over and tell people to try it and then it’s gone within seconds,” he said.  Figures. As for dessert, Jay brought over a Cinco Leches cake that sounded divine, but I’m sure you won’t be surprised when I tell you it was dry as a bone.  Follow that up with cold coffee and let’s just call it a night, shall we?  Oh, and on your way out, please don’t notice the two women enjoying a nice hot chocolate cake covered in cream.

The worst part about this experience is that I truly believe we just fell into the wrong reservation.  I think Wiley’s menu is inspired and offeres Houston a refreshing perspective on a local favorite cuisine.  The complexity of the spice combinations reflects a deep understanding and passion for food.

A long story long…..You will find me there again to give chef LJ Wiley , an active twitterer, another shot to make my taste buds tingle.

Yelapa - 2303 Richmond, Houston TX 713-501-0391

(Full Disclosure:  The kobe appetizer, dessert, and warm wine was comped by the restaurant.)

Photos via restaurant website.

Original Article

I believe New York Magazine wrote the most descriptive and accurate review of Co, it’s innovator Jim Lahey, and the rustic pies that made me double over in delight, but I’m going to give you my opinion anyway.

Damn that’s good pizza.

I’m usually the girl who passes on pizza all the while gazing at the dripping cheese with a lust that rivals a dog begging for bacon scraps at breakfast.  So when a long time friend insisted we go to Co. for lunch, I decided to join him for JUST ONE slice.

Fortunately, or unfortunately depending how you look at it, they don’t serve pizza by the slice, they offer you perfectly crafted pies made on homemade bread covered in authentic Italian toppings.  The combinations are so perfect, they won’t let you change or add any items.  The dilemma is not that you can’t have it your way, but you then have to choose between 10 pies that each sound so divine.

We opted for the ham (prosciutto) and cheese and the Stracciatella (topped with roasted tomatoes, creamy buffalo mozzarella, and arugula) which was the clear winner. My one piece quickly turned into three….ok, three and a half.  And just like in Italy, the fresh ingredients proved to be satisfying and not overwhelming.

The only part of your experience that might be a bit disturbing are the close quarters you must keep to enjoy your meal.  Two tops are stacked closely and a communial table sits center stage in the small eatery.

So go on an off hour, find a space to kick back and enjoy a slice of heaven right here on the island.

Company - 230 Ninth Ave @ W 24th St 212-243-1105

Original Article

Now you can get 15% off of ANY BluePrint Cleanse ANYTIME!

You’ve all asked for a discount and now I’m so happy I can answer with a code you can use whenever you are ready to start juicing.

You know how much I love it, and I believe you’ll enjoy the experience and the impact it has on your lifestyle too!  Juicing is not a quick fix starvation diet.  It’s a way to flush out the impurities we consume in processed food and refresh our bodies to crave real food as it exists in nature, without the extra crap.  In one day, drinking one bag of 6 juices from BPC gives you the nutrient equivalent of eating 24 pounds of vegetables!

Afterwards, fruits will taste so sweet, and fiberous veggies will be filling in a way you only thought you could be satisfied after eating starches. You won’t crave cake or cookies, you’ll want natural sugars instead.

Before you cleanse, do your research, and consult a doctor to make sure it’s right for you.

I’ve written a few pieces on prepping, cleansing, colonics (which I highly recommend on day 2 or 3) and obviously given you insight into each of my experiences on different cleanses which I hope you also find helpful.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO BluePrintCleanse.com and review their 3 Juice Cleanses (I love the Foundation Cleanse) and the now popular Juice ‘Til Dinner (dinner is delicious!)

YOUR DISCOUNT CODE AT CHECKOUT IS MTMBPC.

Happy Juicing!

(Full Disclosure: BluePrint has generously provided me with juice for free to blog about my experience.  I received colonics for free or at a media rate. You can click here to see a comparison of the cleanses I have done - a total of 5 in two years.)

Original Article

As you can see I really went crazy last night….well, the guy snapping this pic did think I was little nuts after the third try, but such is my plight.

It’s actually pleasant to go shopping at night when no one is there.  Especially at Central Market which is usually packed.

I went to pick up some veggies, but then found myself perusing the isles, grinding coffee beans, exploring the cheese section, all of the finer things in stores we rush by.  When I reached the wine section, I realized how bored I was with “affordable” wine I buy to drink at home.  And then I saw the light at the end of my cheap chardonnay  tunnel.

Beer!

Good beer!!!!

For some reason, beer has become a trend among friends.  And I don’t mean bitter, yellow, carbonated water, I talking about the real deal.  In my recent travels I’ve enjoyed some delicious brews….or ales…or….ok, I’m not up on the lingo yet, but I now realize why everyone raves about Belgian beer.  There is life beyond Stella and it tastes sweet and smooth.  I actually take a sip and say “ahhh.”

Here’s another fun fact I didn’t know.  Central Market has a beer specialist (James) who is happy to explain the difference between wheat and barley brews and which brands offer a certain flavor.  If you’re still unsure, he’ll crack open a bottle and let you take a swing.

As James opened the Hoegaarden we thought I might like, a crowd gathered and we all chatted about how good it was, the service at the store, the random snow falling outside….it was all very backyard bbq in the middle of the market.

Here’s what I went home with.  Nothing special with the exception of the Hoegaarden and manchego.  It did cross my mind I would have only dropped 250 pesos ($20ish) for my $80 spree if I were in Mexico, but what the hey, I had a great night out.

Original Article

Not that we need a designated time to help out our fellow females, but a reminder that we can donate goods other than cash is often helpful.

Feb 25-28 marks the Send One Suit initiative started by Dress For Success that encourages you to donate one new or lightly worn suit at any Dress Barn near you.

It’s that easy.  One suit. Certainly you have one in there you don’t wear anymore (or maybe you never wore) and I know you can use that extra inch of space in your closet.

Original Article

-By Mike Mulhall, The Entrepreneur

Fruit for the entrepreneurial mind…check out one of my favorite sites Springwise.com. Springwise is made up of a weekly compilation of good (and bad) ideas that entrepreneurs all over the world are pursuing.

I can’t tell you how many brainstorming sessions and eureka moments I’ve had from reading this site.

Original Article

Raise your hand if you back up your files.

Yeah, that’s what I thought.

Now raise your hand if you think it’s big ole pain in the ass.

Exactly.

That box takes up space, requires an extra cord, and costs too much for what it is.  Then there’s the action of plugging it in…ugh.

It’s super simple to back up files, but for some reason it’s a huge burden.

So when I heard about DropBox, I was THRILLED.

It’s a virtual box/cloud that you can drag your files to, drop them in, and then delete them from your computer’s hard drive and have tons of free memory.  As you can see it does so much more.

And unlike an external hard drive, you can access your Box from anywhere and the files will look the same.

Of course there’s a catch.You can get a free 2GB account, but that’s only enough to store pictures from your last vacation, so you’ll need to purchase more space. There is monthly (above) or yearly charge ($99/50MB) that you must maintain if you plan on keeping those files until your grandkids want to see your digital albums from 2010.

The other aspect that is less than pleasant is that it can take DAYS to transfer the files.  Fortunately it won’t slow down your computer like most uploads, but we’re all looking for instant gratification online, right?

Bottom line: I’m very pleased with my purchase (50GB for $99/year), which I realize is more than an external hard drive, but I have many of those that I now have no idea where they are.  So I  look forward to dumping all of my old shiii, uhem stuff,  into one box I can access anytime.

Original Article

-By Mike Mulhall, The Entrepreneur

Going into business with a partner is a lot like marriage, so treat finding one like dating. The last thing you ever want to do is jump into a financially committed “relationship” with someone you don’t know well. I’ve made that mistake more than once, and it can be devastating financially and emotionally.

Business partners are going to go through a lot together. That’s just the nature of business. The partnership will be tried, tested, stretched, pulled and stressed to the limit. Therefore, compatibility on multiple levels is crucial. Partners should be comparable in reliability, intelligence, financial stability and character. Those are the four big qualities I’d focus on, but there are many more.

Don’t let the excitement of starting a new business cloud your judgment when considering a partner. I’ve seen many people make fatal decisions because of hope and inexperience.

Here are a few pointers for finding and maintaining a good partnership:

• Family members don’t make good business partners. We’ve all heard it, but most of us ignored it until it was too late.
• Make sure the risk is split fairly between partners. Financially lopsided partnerships experience even more pressure.
• Don’t be afraid to run a background check. If I had done that with my very first partner, I would have saved myself a fortune.
• Ask around town. A person’s reputation can tell a lot about them.
• State the goals, duties and expectations of each partner (in writing!) before commencement of the business.
• Hire a lawyer to protect your interests and ensure the partnership is fair.  I know this sounds aggressive and expensive, but it will save you should things go sour.
• Create a strategy to maintain high levels of communication and interaction between the partners. Weekly or even daily meetings are a must.
• Maintain non-business interactions as well. Periodic dinners and recreational events are great ways to ease any tension that may be present.

Remember that good partnerships can be beautiful while bad partnerships can be ugly and life altering. So tread carefully, don’t rush into things and always trust your intuition. You wouldn’t marry a stranger (I hope!), nor would you enter into one of the most important business relationships of your life without doing your due diligence. This is probably the most important advice I could ever offer an entrepreneur.

Original Article