Beek by Two Birds

Beek has been a favorite of mine for years now... they are as timeless as they are chic. While going through old photos the other day I realized, they have literally walked all over the world with me. Frankly there isn’t another pair of sandals I would rather have by my side on all my adventures. They have built in molded arches, thick leather soles perfect for exploring new places and they literally NEVER fall apart. So I just wanted to say thanks Beek... in an Instagram-esque montage. Thanks for all the “support” and love. 

Beek Sandals  

Ice Ice Baby

                   Winter Wonderland  

    An oversized puffer is the number one most worn piece of clothing I purchased this winter. And since the Balenciaga version wasn’t in the cards for me this year I sized up in the shiny black Aritzia Super Puff and couldn’t be happier. This season my closet has been overflowing with all things metallic as well... silver, gold, sequins and lurex are all vying for the number one spot. I finally scored this Michael Kors number on eBay for a cool $40 along with a few other shiny pieces I wasn’t so lucky to find at rock bottom prices. These white patent boots by Nubikk finally had their time in the sun (as well as the rain and snow) and deserved every minute.

                      Dress - Michael Kors

                    Shoes - Nubikk Official

                   Coat - Aritzia Super Puff

                 Photography - Paul Versluis  

The Mersea Bath

Photography Paul Versluis 

Immersing yourself in water to cleanse the body and spirit is definitely not a new concept. For centuries, cultures from all over the world have used baths as a form of therapeutic relaxation. From Turkish Hamams and Japanese Onsens, to Thermaes in Ancient Rome. There is nothing more deeply healing to calm the mind and purify the body than a steamy soak. Mer-Sea has everything you need  to customize your own toasty bath this winter. You can make the experience truly yours with a variety of their bath salts, candles, lotions and body washes. I like to add a few personal touches, such as my favorite book, dry brush (to detoxify) and a cozy robe.  Finish with one of Mer-Sea's yummy misting oils (my favorite is the coconut and salt water) or a hydrating body butter during dry winter months. You have been taking care of everyone else all year and now it's time to spoil yourself.  So as the temperatures drop and the holidays are upon us, let yourself unwind with your own personal Mer-Sea bath ritual.  

Mer-Sea  - Products 

Sohohome Bathrobe

Bamboo bath tray  

Organic Pharmacy skin brush  

California Dreamin'

Vacationing solo with a little one is so much more rewarding and fun than most would imagine. This is our second "girls" trip (the first was a solo adventure to Mexico when she was just 2). At age 3 1/2 she has become a true partner in fun and travel... I purposely choose to set aside a week each year for some one on one time. This time we rented an Airbnb just off of Abbot Kinney in Venice beach before roadtripping to Palm Springs for a little relaxation at the Parker Hotel. In the off season the plane tickets and accommodations are so much cheaper that it's hard to pass up. We biked, hiked, dined (so much we made up for those low priced plane tickets) shopped and swam until our hearts content. Evening strolls were a highlight this trip, not only because we loved chatting but also due to the crazy heat wave we encountered. I don't allow any electronics (except occasionally on long plane rides) so we pack baggies of toys and sketch pads for most meals and car rides. Traveling with someone who loves food and trying new things as much as I do is definitely a plus. We basically ate and snacked our way through Southern California one avocado toast and smoothie at a time. I tend to hear people saying "I think age 5 or later is a good time to start traveling... when the child will enjoy and remember it".  But for me personally I think traveling is so important for people to open their minds and get out of their comfort zones. Trying new food, sleeping in different beds and most of all spending time alone and uninterrupted with a loved one are all experiences that leave a lasting impression on someone... even if they don't realize it just yet. 

Packing tips with littles

- small packable figures (I like busy book toys) 

- sketch pads and sticker books

- pack light (one suitcase and a carry on... preferably a back pack to leave your hands free) 

- a real pillow to make plane and car rides more comfortable 

Stayed

Parker Palm Springs    

Airbnb Venice Beach 

Eat

Venice Beach 

Gjelina, Gjusta, Tasting Kitchen, Malibu Farm, Butchers Daughter, Erewhon Market, Salt Air, Kreation, Joans on 3rd

Palm Springs  

Normas at the Parker, Shermans Deli, Kings Highway Diner, Mr. Lyons, Workshop 

Amina Marie Millinery

Recently I had the pleasure of working with Kansas City's finest milliner, Amina Marie Hood. I've worn her hats for different events in the past and I must say, her Derby pieces are quite spectacular. But this time, I not only had the honor of modeling her gorgeous one of a kind designs, but I also had a chance to transport you to another time and place with styling and art direction. Her incredible hats (works of art really) are all hand made and this fall '17 collection in particular couldn't have been more up my fashion alley.  Shot by Paul Versluis, in a field of golden wheat amidst sunflowers and sunshine, this shoot is one of my all time favorites.

Amina Marie Millinery