Absolutely Not Martha

Forever 21 Fashion Finds for the Fortysomethings

2010-11-04T00:10:00.000-07:00

Some of our favorite fashion bloggers are featured on F21's website with their fall picks. This of course inspired me to select a few pieces of my own for the fortysomething crowd.

French Terry Dolman Shrug $17.80
Shelly Tall Boots $34.80
Pull On Skinny Denim $22.80
Sheer Jeweled Top $28
Wool Blend Sweater Cardigan with Belt $22.80
Multi-Size Chain Necklace $7.80
Quilted Leatherette Wallet $12.80
Knee Length Skirt $15.80
Belted Leatherette Jacket $42.80

Martyn Lawrence-Bullard receives interior design award, and Absolutely Not Martha goes to the ceremony.

2010-10-25T12:32:00.000-07:00

One of the perks of blogging and living in Los Angeles is having the opportunity to go to various parties and events. Last Monday night I was invited to a star-studded awards gala (at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood) honoring Martyn Lawrence-Bullard, the recipient of the prestigious 2010 Andrew Martin International Interior Designer of the Year Award.

A little background on Martyn: He was named one of the world’s top 100 interior designers by Architectural Digest and will be featured on Bravo’s new program, “Million Dollar Decorator”, set to debut at the end of 2010. His client list includes Cher, Elton John, Christina Aguilera, Eva Mendes, Ellen Pompeo, Kid Rock, Sharon and Ozzie Osbourne and Tamara Mellon, founder and President of Jimmy Choo. Very impressive.

I love his work on Ellen Pompeo's classic 1920s Spanish-style home in the Hollywood Hills...
Back to the gala. Wolfgang Puck catered the affair, and I definitely enjoyed my share of miniature grilled cheese sandwiches, thin pizza mini slices, chocolate-covered Ho Hos and teeny tiny (maybe 2 inches tall) vanilla ice cream cones.

While the majority of the previously mentioned celebrities were not in attendance, with the exception of Sharon (and Kelly) Osbourne and Ellen Pompeo, I did see Shannen Doherty, Lance Bass, Cheryl Tiegs, Taylor Dane and Camille Grammer (The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills). The evening's highlights for me: telling Shannen that while we were dating, my husband and I never missed an episode of Beverly Hills, 90210; chatting with Camille and letting her know I can help with any real estate needs (I just passed the California real estate salesperson exam!); and watching Taylor Dane perform "Prove Your Love". Photos of celebrities at the red carpet event are here if you'd like to see.

(Camille, call me.)

(Photos via Elle Decor and Google Images)

Would you like to advertise on Absolutely Not Martha?

2010-10-08T14:19:00.000-07:00

There are 5 top reasons to advertise on Absolutely Not Martha. Feel free to email me (Jackie AT VanillaSpoons DOT COM) for rates.

(Image created by JKLDesign)

Green = Good + Glamorous

2010-10-05T10:27:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles-based interior designer Lori Dennis is author of the soon to be released Green Interior Design (November), a book which covers every aspect of residential interior design from a green perspective. It's filled with over 100 color photos of projects and furnishings and is a wonderful go-to resource for those looking to create eco-friendly interiors.

I couldn't resist posting a few photos of this Hollywood Hills home which Lori worked on...

Visit Lori's portfolio to see more examples of her amazing work.

Have a Coke and a smile.

2010-10-02T01:05:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned before, when I've got nothing -- The Sartorialist always delivers.

I'm smitten with Smitten Kitchen's gluten free recipes.

2010-08-18T01:18:00.000-07:00

In case you haven't already checked it out, I thought I'd pass along Smitten Kitchen's Gluten-Free Archive.

Babs and Jen

2010-08-09T00:45:00.000-07:00

For several years now, I've been telling my family how much I think Jennifer Aniston resembles Barbra Streisand. Well, apparently someone at Harper's Bazaar thinks so, too. (Fun fact: Jennifer's "Streisand-ification" took place in an old Los Angeles theater surrounded by iconic images of Barbra and with "People" on rotation.)

Did anybody ever tell you that you look like a certain celebrity?

Summer's sweet escape

2010-08-03T00:20:00.000-07:00

Editors at the DailyCandy rounded up their favorite beaches for a weekend getaway. Where do you like to go for a weekend escape?

James Perse

2010-07-29T00:50:00.000-07:00

I love a store where one can find a modern classic v-neck dress AND an equally stylish dog bowl.

New York women share their parents' wedding-day photos.

2010-07-27T00:07:00.000-07:00

Fourteen New York women share the stories and pictures of their parents' big day with Piper Weiss, author of the book, My Mom, The Style Icon (Spring 2011), based on her blog. (Those are Chloe Sevigny's parents in the first photo.)

How to make fresh mozzarella cheese

2010-07-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

I just came across this amazing little mozzarella-making video which also features a combination of classical music and gangsta rap song "This Is Why I'm Hot" by MIMS.

(Via Luxirare)

Perfect in Paris

2010-07-06T00:25:00.000-07:00

Via here, of course.

Edgy and easy

2010-06-17T23:35:00.000-07:00

I love how her jewelery and tattoo provide a bit of edginess to an otherwise carefree summer look. (Many commenters at The Sartorialist thought the lace looked like a hairy chest!)

This is a glamorous swimsuit.

2010-06-08T00:40:00.000-07:00

Anthropologie has created "a maillot that combines silver screen allure with girl-next-door appeal." (To be worn in one of these.)

Cool pools

2010-06-04T01:45:00.000-07:00

With the unofficial start of summer last weekend, I think it's only fitting to bring on the aquatic imagery.

(Photos via Apartment Therapy)

Forever 21 dresses

2010-06-01T00:52:00.000-07:00

I recently bought this business ready dress at Forever 21. Somehow I missed these...

I'm so excited to go see this tonight, I can barely breathe.

2010-05-27T00:25:00.000-07:00

One gluten free zucchini ricotta cheesecake please.

2010-05-14T01:45:00.000-07:00

This recipe from 101 Cookbooks sounds too good.

Justin and Jessica in New York

2010-05-11T01:10:00.000-07:00

Last week, Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel were spotted taking a stroll through the West Village, having brunch in Tribeca and checking out two Broadway shows. (I just noticed how they share the same facial expression in each photo! Neat.)

I've been so busy, but here are some things which recently caught my eye...

2010-04-23T00:20:00.000-07:00

Karen Walker dress.
Karen Walker straw hat.
Single large bud oxidized ring from Deka Ray, not Karen Walker.

(All these items found at Gargyle.)

Spring recipe

2010-04-08T18:25:00.000-07:00

I just came across this easy recipe for Spring Greens with Oranges...

Whisk the grated zest and juice of 1 orange, 1 teaspoon honey and 1/2 cup olive oil in a bowl. Add 12 cups watercress and/or arugula, 3 sliced oranges, 2/3 cup toasted walnuts and 1/4 cup finely sliced fennel and toss.

Bag ladies

2010-03-24T00:10:00.000-07:00

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are stylish as usual--both wearing a large scarf and shades and carrying not one, but two huge bags while clutching a cup of coffee.

(Photos via People)

Word play

2010-03-19T12:22:00.000-07:00

It took a couple seconds before I got it.

The artist's bio states:

Hello my name is colleen and I'm living the dream. No job, no fixed address and no one to please apart from myself. I'm from Bristol in the south west of England but am living in Wellington NewZealand at the moment, being well looked after by my best friend (I owe her big time).

I'm a graphic designer by trade and an ideas person by nature, nothing makes me happier than a clever concept. I have the sort of brain that never switches off so I carry notebooks everywhere and can often be found in cafes scribbling on napkins.

My favourite things are Saturdays, hot coffee on cold mornings, riding my bike, bright colours and the eagles of death metal. I dislike icy pavements and people who don't say please and thank you.

(Via here, then here.)

20 Spring Dresses Under $100

2010-03-18T00:30:00.000-07:00

The 16 other ones are here.

A non-refrigerator display of the kids' masterpieces.

2010-03-16T11:15:00.000-07:00

More photos of Zoe Van de Wiele's (she owns Cloth Clothing) beautiful Brooklyn home can be found here. In fact, Zoe and her family live right above her clothing boutique! Nice commute.

A gluten free recipe and a photo of Johnny Depp.

2010-03-15T01:40:00.000-07:00

Random I know. But it's all I have for today.

Click here for the Curried Sweet Potatoes With Apples recipe.

(Photo via Ffffound!)

Urban Renewal

2010-03-11T18:25:00.000-08:00

While visiting Urban Outfitters' website I discovered Urban Renewal, one-of-a-kind pieces that are handcrafted in Philadelphia from vintage, deadstock and surplus materials sourced from around the world. Did you know about this?

The pooch and decor.

2010-03-09T16:05:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been paying attention to the presence of pups in home decor pictures.

Sameness

2010-03-08T23:20:00.000-08:00

Angelina Jolie with her parents.
Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt with their children.

(Photos via weheartit)

Weekly links

2010-03-06T20:08:00.000-08:00

This is a photo of Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly backstage at the Academy Awards in 1956! Will you be watching the Oscars tomorrow night? (If I'm feeling adventurous, I may go to catch a glimpse of red carpet activity--perks of living in L.A.) Hope you're having a fabulous weekend. The links...

make a bed out of pipes at Instructables via Curbly

make gluten free zucchini ricotta cheesecake at 101 Cookbooks

make a tin can star curtain at Sol y Sombra via Curbly

make a rope necklace at ...love Maegan

make a tied tissue box cover at Curbly

make a string tree wall mural at Re-Nest

prep your bathroom for company at Apartment Therapy

(Photo via weheartit)

Weekly links

2010-02-27T02:00:00.000-08:00

Do you recall my lack of inspiration to blog? Truth be told, it's due in part to lack of time. I've been so busy lately looking for (dare I say?) a real job. In addition, I've also got husband, three kids and running a little online shop. Since I am a little out of practice, do any of you have tips for job hunting? To my readers in Los Angeles, what would your suggestions be for a part-time gig in a (preferably) creative environment? Please shoot me an email (Jackie AT VanillaSpoons DOT COM) with any detailed info/leads/contacts. Muchas gracias. Warm weekend wishes, and here are your links...

knock out a farmhouse table for $50 at Knock-Off Wood via Curbly

make a gluten free lemony sweet and sour tender veggie salad at Food Network

make Australian stylist Tim Neve's driftwood lamp at Tim Neve via Apartment Therapy

deck out an old record cabinet at Apartment Therapy

make a clock out of junk mail at Apartment Therapy

learn how to embroider a French knot at Kootoyoo via WhipUp (A video tute.)

make a cold weather picnic pack at Design Sponge

(Photo via weheartit via Ffffound!)

DIY Marc Jacobs Necklace With Coffee Stirrers From Dunkin' Donuts

2010-02-23T00:30:00.000-08:00

Due to the recent lack of posting weekly links, I thought some of you might enjoy a random Tuesday DIY from P.S.-I Made This that I discovered on Pipeline Refinery 29.

Anthropologie has a few interesting pieces...

2010-02-22T00:45:00.000-08:00

A Galloping Filly Skirt
Prairie Daisy Bloomers
...and a Prairie Daisy Bandeau to match your Prairie Daisy Bloomers

Fashion Week in New York? Fuhgeddaboudit. Here's a look at the scene from the 134th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

2010-02-18T10:35:00.000-08:00

The two-day dog show was held at Madison Square Garden in New York earlier this week.This Scottish Terrier took first place. Congratulations, Sadie.

(Photos via New York Magazine)

Green day

2010-02-17T12:18:00.000-08:00

(Photos via weheartit)

Where's the inspiration?

2010-02-16T00:45:00.000-08:00

To blog, that is.

(Photo via Le Love)

Fashion icon Alexander McQueen dies at 40

2010-02-11T09:35:00.000-08:00

(Via Google Images and J'adore)

A fair display of temporary tattoos and notable dates in history.

2010-02-10T22:50:00.000-08:00

Etten Eller's latest collection of necklaces named and designed after historical dates such as Kate Moss' birthday and the day Marilyn Monroe sang Happy Birthday to JFK at Madison Square Garden.

(Top photo via Garance Dore)

Nobody ever told me about the big, beautiful rainbows in L.A.

2010-02-10T12:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I saw this exact rainbow pictured above, but here are some others for your viewing pleasure...
(Photos via here, here, here, here and here)

Cut your own caramels.

2010-02-10T00:20:00.000-08:00

Last week while browsing Etsy I discovered Have It Sweet, a shop which sells artisan caramels, nougats and marshmallows. First of all, their photography of food is some of the best I've ever seen (although as I am checking the site right now for link, I notice many of the product pics are no longer there due to selling out for Valentine's Day, I guess). Second, they claim that 90% of their products are gluten free.

Beyond braids

2010-02-09T13:13:00.000-08:00

(Photo via weheartit)

Controlled clutter

2010-02-09T00:17:00.000-08:00

These images serve as a reminder of my predicament here. Do you ever procrastinate when it comes to home decorating projects?

(Photos via weheartit)

Did you know that Saints quarterback Drew Brees is allergic to gluten?

2010-02-08T16:05:00.000-08:00

He is also allergic to dairy and eggs. Congratulations to the New Orleans Saints on Super Bowl win!

(Photo via Google Images)

Weekly links

2010-02-07T23:55:00.000-08:00

Depending on how you look at it, these links are either really late or really early...

give your chairs a makeover with chalkboard paint at Pretty Ditty via WhipUp

make two gluten free meals from one hunk of pork at Sorry, I Can't Eat That

add some flair to your Valentine's Day dinner candles at Curbly

discover 12 new uses for aluminum foil at Curbly

learn how to dry out (and hopefully save) wet electronics at Unplggd

make a Valentine's Day nightie out of a pillowcase at Craftzine (This one's a video tute.)

make a coffee can lamp at ReadyMade via Apartment Therapy

**BONUS**

make this cute little blow-a-kiss flipbook at Color Me Katie via Craftzine

...and have a wonderful week!

(Photo via weheartit)

"When you think of raising money with singing, obviously I'm going to be sitting there." (Vince Vaughn)

2010-02-05T10:20:00.000-08:00

Apparently it was a surprise participation by Vince in the "We Are the World" re-recording for Haitian earthquake relief. I love him.

(Photo via People)

A bird in the hand is worth more than two on the head. (The picture was begging for this post title.)

2010-02-04T09:45:00.000-08:00

Um. I'm not sure how I feel about wearing two blackbirds on my head.

(Via Etsy)

Their parents were awesome.

2010-02-04T00:15:00.000-08:00

Blogger Eliot Glazer started the website My Parents Were Awesome to show photos of parents when they were "super-awesome." My Parents Were Awesome: The Book is slated to be published later this year, and submissions from readers are currently being accepted until March 17. Think you might want to publicly honor your parents' or grandparents' awesomeness?

Los Angeles on The Selby

2010-02-02T22:40:00.000-08:00

(Photography via The Selby)

Weekly links (Late Edition)

2010-01-31T00:45:00.000-08:00

Hope you're having a wonderful weekend! Links...

learn how to use Craigslist to find the perfect apartment at Apartment Therapy

make gluten free and vegan Three Sisters Posole at Gluten A Go Go

make cherry blossom garlands from disposable tablecloths at Creative Jewish Mom via Craftzine

make a flowery pom-pom pendant lamp at Craftynest via Curbly

use old jigsaw puzzle pieces to create a heart pin or recycle crayon pieces into swirly, usable Valentines at Family Fun (Twenty-three more Valentine's Day crafts here.)

create your own rub-on letters at Can't Stop Making Things via Craftzine

learn 4 new indoor ways to grow a little green at Apartment Therapy

(Photo via People)

Moist and delicious gluten free chocolate cupcakes covered in chocolate-coffee ganache. Sounds like an OK recipe.

2010-01-27T10:00:00.000-08:00

I was looking for a chocolate dessert recipe (yeah, Valentine's Day) and found this one from Gluten-Free Girl at The Daily Green. Sources say these cupcakes are even better than those at the famous Magnolia Bakery in New York.

When I've got nothing...The Sartorialist comes through.

2010-01-26T15:45:00.000-08:00

(Via The Sartorialist)

Celebrity encounter

2010-01-25T08:50:00.000-08:00

I know you must be thinking...Oh, no. Here she goes, with yet another celebrity-themed post. But I just HAD to share with you that last night whilst picking up a few groceries at Whole Foods...I saw, and spoke with, actress Marion Cotillard. She only happens to be the star of one of my most favorite films EVER, La Vie En Rose. Not to mention she's currently in new fave Nine. LOVE her. (That's all I'm telling.)

(Photo via weheartit)

Weekly links

2010-01-22T19:15:00.000-08:00

It's still January...one more New Year greeting won't hurt. (Couldn't resist the tamale balls.) What's on your agenda this weekend? Perhaps you'll try one or more of these...

make chalkboard hangers at Craftzine via WhipUp

make gluten free peanut butter and jelly chocolate sandwich cookies at Grandma's Gluten-Free Baking N Cooking

make junk look good at Apartment Therapy

discover tips for camouflaging thermostats, radiators and air conditioners at Apartment Therapy

make olive penguins at Serious Eats and Cut Out + Keep via Curbly

build a kitchen banquette with storage at 5 Minute Videos via Curbly

learn how to keep technology quiet at night at Unplggd

(Photography by Keith Davis Young)

Is your big (black) bag too big?

2010-01-21T08:35:00.000-08:00

Well, mine is black. I happen to have a bag very similar to the one pictured above, though I'm happy to note that I paid nowhere near $720. A few days ago in the Target parking garage, a woman noticed me searching through my bag for keys and referred to it as "the black hole." And just yesterday, Jezebel tackled this very subject in "The Burden (And Beauty) Of The Bottomless Bag." Some items women carry? Hand sanitizer. Three take-out menus. Pepper spray. The remains of a pumpernickel roll. A cat.

Dare I ask what you have in yours?

(Via Marie Claire)

Fashion inspiration: Angelina Jolie

2010-01-20T20:20:00.000-08:00

Recent posts seem to be all about the fashion and/or celebs. Nonetheless, I really like how this mom of six rocks a Loro Piana cable-knit sweater dress and Ferragamo knee-high boots.

(Photos via Jezebel and People)

Stellar performance and style in An Education

2010-01-19T12:15:00.000-08:00

I watched the movie An Education two nights ago and while it's not my fave, I was happy to discover relative newcomer Carey Mulligan. (I was already familiar with Peter Sarsgaard whose performances are always good.) Carey's charm plus 1960s period detail make it worth seeing. Do you think she resembles Audrey Hepburn a little?

This just in...Carey Mulligan secured the No. 92 spot in AskMen.com's Top 99 Most Desirable Women 2010 ranking.

(Photos via Flickr)

Tattoo stockings

2010-01-18T11:15:00.000-08:00

While on the subject of tattoos, do you have a real one?

(Via Etsy shop Tattoo Socks)

Weekly links

2010-01-16T01:00:00.000-08:00

Have a wonderful weekend! Here are your links...

make a stylish superhero headband at Curly Pops via WhipUp

make gluten free butternut polenta lasagna at Gluten Free Gidget

discover 5 places to use a rubber stamp in the bedroom at Apartment Therapy

make a very simple loop window shade at Two Straight Lines via Curbly

make a "Team Conan" t-shirt at Vickie Howell via Craftzine

learn how to keep your neighbors sane during renovations at Apartment Therapy

learn how to stencil with freezer paper at How About Orange via Not Martha

**BONUS GLUTEN FREE RECIPE
make chestnut flour crepes with ricotta and honey at Martha

(Photo via Ffffound!)

A beautiful bag and smile can go a long way.

2010-01-15T00:10:00.000-08:00

(Photos via Stockholm Street Style)

Do you know about The Catorialist? (I didn't.)

2010-01-13T23:50:00.000-08:00

It's one of Refinery 29's four favorite unconventional street style blogs. Featuring "fashion-forward felines," The Catorialist combines Sartorialist-esque photography with "Cute Overload-preciousness." I like the post titles.

"On the Street...Full Tortoise, Chinatown, LA"
"The Catorialist for Purrberry's Art of the Trench"
"Sunset Sharpening...Los Angeles, CA"

Turn an outfit from drab to fab with these trendy pieces from Forever 21. (One might think I write ad copy for a living.)

2010-01-12T23:35:00.000-08:00

Circle Accented Mesh Necklace, $8.80
Patent Ballet Slipper, $16.80
Metallic Elastic Belt, $7.80
Furry Trim Cardigan, $26.90
Pearlescent Symphony Tunic, $19.80

What's your favorite way to jazz up your look? Moi? Black nail polish--a little edgy and a lot inexpensive.

This New York couple wed on the 100th day of their relationship!

2010-01-12T01:30:00.000-08:00

Talk about a New York minute. New Yorkers Sarah and Peter met on the online dating site jdate.com. After three dates they knew it was meant to be and after just 45 days, they were engaged. And after 55 days of wedding planning, they exchanged vows in the Brooklyn Heights neighborhood where Peter had lived for several years.
The couple hosted their 150 guests in the street-like alley outside the carriage house which had undergone a 20-month renovation that ended just before the June nuptials.
In traditional Jewish weddings, the couple spends a few minutes just after the ceremony's conclusion alone together. So Sarah and Peter walked down the street to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade which overlooks the New York City skyline.
The newlyweds enjoy a quiet dance in the courtyard here, although later in the evening, remaining guests joined them in the basement of their home for dancing under two disco balls and an array of votive candles tucked into the nooks of the walls.

(In contrast, Jodi and Jon of Utah found true love after 15 years of friendship.)

(Via Martha Stewart Weddings)

Who would have thought that stripes and a leopard print against a floral background could work?

2010-01-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

(Photo via The Sartorialist, of course)

Weekly links

2010-01-08T12:20:00.000-08:00

Last night my husband and I watched Up in the Air starring George Clooney. Both of us really liked it. A little trivia about the movie: With the exception of the famous actors, every person we see fired in the film is not an actor but a real life recently laid off person. The filmmakers put out ads in St. Louis and Detroit posing as a documentary crew looking to document the effect of the recession. When people showed up, they were instructed to treat the camera like the person who fired them and respond as they did or use the opportunity to say what they wished they had. What do you think of that?

This weekend we're planning to visit Babycakes' new digs in L.A.--I can't wait for my son to have this bakery experience alas! Here's to a delicious weekend, and here are your links...

though New Year's has passed, you still can learn 20 ways to pump up your next party at Delish via Curbly

make gluten free orange fennel salad at Food Network via Cupcakes and Cashmere

make a vintage-inspired 70's style string lampshade at Instructables via Craftzine

make a modern statement ring at The Swell Life via Curbly

make a chocolate iPhone using the iPhone packaging at Craftzine

discover 5 new uses for old t-shirts at Apartment Therapy

dust and dust mite proof your bedroom at Apartment Therapy (Beware of photo as you click through.)

(Photo via weheartit)

When you have five minutes and fifteen seconds to spare, watch this parody of Dirty Dancing.

2010-01-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

(This is for my daughter who has already watched the 1980's movie classic 37 times--a conservative estimate.)

(Via Cinemash)

So do you think Emma Watson's right leg was Photoshopped?

2010-01-07T14:55:00.000-08:00

No leg.Leg.As New York Magazine puts it: "Either she's been horribly disfigured in a tragic ski accident, or someone on Burberry's Photoshop team is in trouble."

More photos of the Burberry spring 2010 campaign can be viewed here.

Framed!

2010-01-07T02:10:00.000-08:00

While these art walls inspire me to do something about the un-hung artwork, empty frames and hundreds of photos still scattered about a small corner of our living room floor (we moved four months ago), I probably won't. Or maybe I will.

(Top photo via Flickr; bottom photo via The City Sage via Elle Decor)

Glamour on gluten (or...Gluten on Glamour)

2010-01-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

Gluten: Friend or foe? Some of you may be interested in reading yesterday's post on Vitamin G, Glamour's daily health and fitness blog.

Babycakes opens in Los Angeles!

2010-01-05T02:05:00.000-08:00

I just found out that New York-based Babycakes opened this weekend in the Pacific Electric Lofts at 6th and Main in downtown Los Angeles. Though we never made it to their East Coast headquarters, Babycakes L.A., here we come!

I love seeing "gluten free" written all over the display window...

No writing. Just yum.
(Photos via Style Section L.A. and Quarry Girl)

Get{ty} inspired.

2010-01-04T04:35:00.000-08:00

We kicked off the New Year with a visit on Saturday to the Getty Villa in Malibu. The weather was beautiful, as was everything we saw. Here's a peek at the grounds of the Villa.

(First two photos via here, third here and last one here)

I wish you all a happy and healthy New Year.

2010-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

(Photos via The New York Times)

Absolutely Not Martha's Picks at J. Crew

2009-12-30T02:50:00.000-08:00

Jenna's picks. My picks...
ruffles and roses tissue tank, $42.50 and shadow facet necklace, $150
silk camisole, $55 and metallic suede espadrilles, $125
Belstaff leather bomber jacket, $1,195 and skinny pyramid-studded belt, $36.50
wool bungalow skirt, $98 and metallic Georgie tote, $278
tulle cascade wedding gown, $1,500 and crystal hair elastic, $16.50

Pretty good, no?

Weekly links closed for holiday.

2009-12-25T03:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays to all, and while there won't be any links today, I offer you these images...(Photos via here, here, here, here and here)

Everything old is new again.

2009-12-23T00:45:00.000-08:00

This stretch floral lace unitard from American Apparel reminds me of this little number worn by Anita Morris in the 1982 Broadway show Nine. (Yes, mildly obsessed with musical lately.)

Is there new hope for celiac disease sufferers?

2009-12-21T18:35:00.000-08:00

...in case you didn't read this article in today's L.A. Times.

(Photo via Flickr)

Weekly links

2009-12-18T01:15:00.000-08:00

Tonight we have plans to see Nine which opens in Los Angeles and New York today. Believe it or not, I saw the original Broadway musical in 1982! (Watch the whole YouTube video when you get a chance.) Have a wonderful weekend! Here are your links...

make star lights out of manila envelopes at B.Light Design via Curbly via Dudecraft

make chocolate chai sherbet and curried lamb-and-lentil stew at MyRecipes (Both gluten free of course.)

make mini LP record gift tags at Dudecraft via WhipUp

make chalk cloth gift tags at Oilcloth Addict and Little Birdie Secrets via Apartment Therapy

make a printed burlap chair at Design Sponge

make your dishwasher run better at The Kitchn

take steps to relieve holiday stress at San Gabriel Valley Tribune

(Photo via ObsessionMIA)

French kissing

2009-12-17T00:30:00.000-08:00

Paris in 1962. Oui.

(Photos via Tom Palumbo's photostream)

The family jewels

2009-12-16T09:30:00.000-08:00

The other day I bought these four pairs of earrings and one golden ring at Forever 21 for my two daughters. Grand total: $15.40. (I'll be borrowing the ring.)Gem Tear Drop Earrings, $6.80.Pillow Ring, $3.80.Studded Hoop Trio, $4.80.

Racing to fill orders...

2009-12-15T16:20:00.000-08:00

at Vanilla Spoons.
(Photos via Copenhagen Cycle Chic)

Holiday gift baskets at Vanilla Spoons

2009-12-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

There's one way to take the stress out of your holiday shopping: Order a gluten free gift basket from Vanilla Spoons. If there's someone on your list who has gluten intolerance or a wheat allergy, you can feel confident in choosing one of our gourmet gift baskets which have movie-themed names like Close Encounters of the Sweet Kind and Mix and The City. (Cheeky, I know.)

(Photo via Google Images)

Weekly links

2009-12-12T00:55:00.000-08:00

Nutcracker anyone? These fabulous photos taken by photographer Rachel Papo are of costumes from the New York City Ballet's Nutcracker (2006). If you have never seen this fairy tale-ballet (or if it's been a while), I suggest getting thee to a performance near you. Have a great weekend and happy Hanukkah to all those who celebrate! Here are the links...

learn the ground rules of regifting at Apartment Therapy

make gluten free sweet potato latkes with ruby applesauce at Karina's Kitchen

learn how to remove smelly odors left behind as a result of potato pancake preparation at Apartment Therapy

learn 9 ways to shag at Apartment Therapy

make a super simple coffee sleeve wreath at Magpie and Cake via Craftzine

make fleece pom pom Hanukkah garland at Design Sponge

make a ruffly felt rosette wreath at Domestifluff via WhipUp

Feta walnut spread

2009-12-09T22:50:00.000-08:00

Blog of Note A Hungry Bear Won't Dance has a gluten free recipe I thought I'd share with you:

2 cups walnuts
1 pound feta, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup water
2 teaspoons paprika
cayenne pepper, to taste

In a food processor, grind the walnuts until they are in very small pieces. Add the crumbled feta and the olive oil to the bowl of the processor and mix until a smooth paste forms. If it is too thick, add the water now, slowly, through the feed tube, until a smooth paste forms. The spread shouldn’t be too thick, nor too thin, so add the water slowly. You may need more than 1/4 cup. Add the paprika, and the cayenne pepper. Mix well. Spoon the spread out into a serving bowl and top with a drizzle of olive oil and some paprika.

New England winter landscapes

2009-12-08T21:10:00.000-08:00

I believe this will be my first winter ever without the white stuff. (Faux snow at The Grove doesn't count.) I'm kind of looking forward to it.
(Photography via Peter Urbanski's photostream)

Yes, the picture in previous post is that of model Jessica Stam.

2009-12-07T00:58:00.000-08:00

What a pro! It's for this very reason I can't wear five-inch platform heels. (Or any kind of heels for that matter.)

Visit Vanilla Spoons. It's my [gluten free] bread and butter.

2009-12-07T00:20:00.000-08:00

Vanilla Spoons. For all your gluten free gift giving needs.

(Photo via weheartit)

Got chairs?

2009-12-03T00:25:00.000-08:00

It seems like a while since I've posted some inspirational interiors. These are actually all from one residence. There's a womb chair, an Eames rocker and even a chair designed for IKEA. (For the record, I adore IKEA.) Don't you just love the variety of styles all under one roof?

(Photos via Design Sponge)

Charlie bit me. (auto-tune version)

2009-12-02T00:20:00.000-08:00

For some reason, my kids have been watching this over. And over. Again. For the past 48 hours.

Les femmes de fashion

2009-12-01T02:20:00.000-08:00

Each of these girls brings a certain, shall we say je ne sais quoi, to the fashion blogging world. Their sites possess personality, style and some rather wonderful photography. (Even recipes and the occasional hair-to.) I seldom skip my daily dose of these women of wardrobe. So I'm curious to know. Which one are you?

Are you a Karla? (Karla's Closet)A Maegan? (...love Maegan)An Emily? (Cupcakes and Cashmere)Or a Rumi? (Fashion Toast)

Congratulations to giveaway winner A Little Birdie Told Me!

Weekly links

2009-11-27T13:20:00.000-08:00

How was your Thanksgiving? I forgot to make the mashed potatoes, and somehow I managed to feel quite full without eating any turkey. Enjoy the rest of your holiday weekend! Links...

turn tablecloths into curtains at Apartment Therapy

make gluten free chocolate snow eggs at La Tartine Gourmande

order a gluten free gift basket at Vanilla Spoons

build a stowable upholstery workbench at Curbly

use decorative pillows to make a headboard at Apartment Therapy

make lots of cards from just two punches at Crafty Pod via Craftzine

sew a ruffled messenger bag at Between The Lines via WhipUp

(Photo via Apartment Therapy)

One premium customer security entrance, please.

2009-11-24T10:50:00.000-08:00

Do you have travel plans this week?

(Photo via Olsens Anonymous)

A few gluten free Thanksgiving recipes...

2009-11-23T16:53:00.000-08:00

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
(6-8 servings)

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 pound gluten free Italian sausage
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 cup (3 ounces) Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1 large egg yolk, lightly beaten
24 large mushrooms, stemmed
1/3 cup dry white wine
3 tablespoons Italian parsley, chopped

Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly grease 15-by-10-by-2-inch glass baking dish. Set aside.

Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium high heat. Add sausage and oregano, cook. Break sausage into small pieces, cook until sausage is brown and no pink traces remain. Using slotted spoon, transfer sausage into large bowl, let cool. Add 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire, and garlic powder. Stir to combine. Stir in cream cheese; salt and pepper to taste. Stir in egg yolk.

Place mushroom caps in prepared baking dish, stemmed side up. Brush each with white wine. Fill with about 1 tablespoon filling, sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese. (Can be prepared ahead, covered and chilled.)

Bake uncovered for 25 minutes. Place under broiler 5 minutes until tops are lightly browned. Serve.

Roasted Parsnips with Horseradish Herb Butter
(6 servings)

3 medium parsnips, peeled and cut into 2-by-1/2-inch pieces
large carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 cup gluten free chicken stock
1/4 stick unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon prepared gluten free horseradish sauce
1 tablespoon Italian parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon chives, chopped
1 small garlic clove, minced

Preheat oven to 400 F. In medium baking dish, toss parsnips and carrots with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Add chicken stock; cover with aluminum foil and roast. Stir once or twice until parsnips and carrots are tender and the stock has evaporated (about 45 minutes). Meanwhile, in medium bowl, mix butter, horseradish sauce, herbs, and garlic. Adjust seasonings to taste with salt and pepper. Toss roasted vegetables with horseradish butter. Serve.

Two additional recipes (Roast Turkey with Apples and Deep Dish Cranberry Pie) can be found at The Saturday Evening Post.

Is there a special dish you particularly enjoy at Thanksgiving?

(Photo via Flickr)

Weekly links

2009-11-20T14:23:00.000-08:00

Have a fab weekend! Here are your links...

live like stylish vampire Edward Cullen of The Twilight Saga: New Moon at Apartment Therapy (The house is for sale and movie opens today!)

make gluten free Thanksgiving cranberry cobbler at Ginger Lemon Girl

crochet flower fridgies at Salihan Crafts via WhipUp

learn the art of giving good directions at Apartment Therapy (Useful if you will be entertaining during the holidays.)

stump your guests with turkey trivia place cards at Martha Stewart

make a beefy bolster pillow from old towels at Curbly

use drinking straws to make a contemporary pendant light at Addicted 2 Decorating via Curbly

(Photo via weheartit)

What's your lip color of choice?

2009-11-19T15:30:00.000-08:00

I used to have a collection of red lipsticks ranging from drugstore brands to MAC and Chanel, and everything in between. These days I'm happy if I can get out the door with a swipe of Burt's Bees lip balm.

(Photo via The Sartorialist)

Absolutely Not Martha Giveaway! (...and a Perricone Discount that everybody can win.)

2009-11-18T00:35:00.000-08:00

Perricone MD is offering their revolutionary skin care product called Cold Plasma to one of ANM's readers! The formula is suited for anyone, no matter your age or skin type or sex, and works to help skin achieve a healthy, glowing, youthful appearance. All of us desire this goal, no? For a chance to win, please leave a comment below. (Unfortunately, rules state that you must be in the U.S.) A winner will be chosen at random on Tuesday, December 1st. Good luck!

Also, make sure you check out the most up-to-date information on every Perricone Discount available!

Fantastic freeways

2009-11-17T11:17:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, I've somehow managed to avoid driving on the crazy Los Angeles freeways since moving here.
(Via SeeSaw Designs)

Fashionable finds under $50 (Make that $40.)

2009-11-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

Floral dress, $22.90, Forever 21
Rib long sleeve turtleneck tent dress, $38, American Apparel

Kimchi blue silky tap short, $28, Urban Outfitters
Plaid tiered skirt, $16.90, Forever 21

Leatherette biker jacket, $32.80, Forever 21
Zip peep toe bootie, $29.80, Forever 21

Hoodie scarf, $36, Lori's Shoes
Betsey Johnson leggings, $38, Urban Outfitters
Rachel Comey clip-on earring, $15, Refinery 29

Weekly links

2009-11-13T11:50:00.000-08:00

Breaking a mirror, walking under a ladder, putting a hat on a bed, itchy palms and itchy noses. Are you superstitious? Have a great weekend--just don't let any milk boil over! Here are your links...

diamond tuft a wall at Better Homes and Gardens via Curbly

make gluten free roasted fish and chips at Simply Gluten Free

refashion a man's hoodie sweatshirt at Happy Together via Craftzine

learn ways to manage pets at the party at Apartment Therapy

makeover your rental kitchen (without paint) for eighty bucks at Re-Nest

make book page wreaths at Living With Lindsay via Apartment Therapy

cover plain floating bookshelves with wallpaper at Martha Stewart (Just imagine--Martha and I both had wallpaper on the brain. The same day.)

(Photo by Rodney Smith found here)

Blog award business

2009-11-12T11:10:00.000-08:00

Last week I received One Lovely Blog Award from Ginger at Seamstress of Avalon. (Thanks, Ginger!) Sending the love to these 15:

Ariel Gordon
Back To Buddha
Beach Vintage
Carpe Diem
Destination Inspiration
Down And Out Chic
Everyday Adventures of a Curious Gal
Grayson: A Different Shade of Grey
SeeSaw Designs
Teri Rees Wang
The Beauty File
The Gluten-Free Gourmand
Two Ellie
Vintage Simple
Waterstone

Check them out and do your thing.

To BCBG, or not to BCBG...

2009-11-11T12:00:00.000-08:00

To BCBG.

(Top photo via ELLE News Blog; last two via Fashion Toast)

I love her look from headband to loafers.

2009-11-09T11:13:00.000-08:00

(Photo via The Sartorialist)