Crave Phoenix

I just picked up a copy of Crave Phoenix. What is that??

It's a handbook for local businesses owned by women. Not really something that you sit down and read from cover to cover but it's a great source for local business and inspiration. And guess what...my super talented friend is featured on page 48: Rachel from Bunky Boutique!

The book offers a quick snip-it about the company and a short interview from the women who own them. 

You'll find everything from Toffee shops to Life Coaches. My favorite part: reading how other women find inspiration, put it all on the line, and followed their dreams.

Sorry for the wait

Sorry to leave you all for so long I've been in a bit of a funk. It may have something to do with getting back in the swing of things after our family vacation. No real excuse. Rather than ramble I thought I would share some photos from our trip to Maui over the fourth of July holiday. 

 

For a little over a week, this was our view from our cabanas every morning. Just past the bushes is the beach where I battled my husband in some serious games of paddle ball. He was typically the winner but I won't ever admit that to him. It was here that I finally had the chance to read Bossy Pants ...I highly recommend it. 

 

This was the view from our hotel room. Hawaiian sunsets are some of the very best I've ever seen... but nothing compares to an Arizona sunset.

Here we are in Lahaina. 

We also went to Paia, a little hippy town, where I stumbled upon a great little shop called Mahina. I bought 4 new dresses and some fun jewelry for under $100. If you love crepes, Cafe Des Amis is a must. Breakfast, lunch and, of course, desert crepes. Paia was the perfect way to end the vacation. 

I took a lot more photos with my film camera but haven't had a chance to get the film developed yet... maybe more to come...

Have a fantastic day!

Talented Friend: Mackenzie

My friend Mackenzie is one of my favorite people. She's fluent in French; has run several marathons around the world, the most notable of which probably being the the New York Marathon; she was one of the first Pat Tillman scholars; she is able to do the splits-which is a serious accomplishment in my book... and the list goes on. When she puts her mind to something, it gets done. She consistently motivates me to be a better person which brings me to this post. The other day we were at lunch and she said something to me that really stuck.

 

It's such a simple statement that I thought I would share. Sometimes we don't realize that we have to go out of our way to be "good." From not saying something negative to volunteering your free time, it can feel like work but it always feels like the right thing.

I also wanted to share another quote by Howard Thurman that my yoga teacher read yesterday.

What makes you come alive?

Music: What I'm listening to

Another band I have known and loved for a long time but recently seem addicted to: Band of Horses.  The song below is basically on loop in my car.

Quote: Marilyn Monroe

original photo

Gift Ideas: Wedding Season

It's wedding season! 

I don't know about you but weddings are all around me...and I love it! Here are some unique and special wedding gifts to make the day a little more special.

Add a little something special with this hanger to hold that extra special dress.

 

Keep the unwanted knocks to a minimum with this.

 It's always exciting for bride to see her new initials for the first time; why not have them sewn into the wedding dress... they can also serve as "something blue."

 

Here is an inexpensive way to help guests find their way. 

The last one isn't really as novel as the others but having just had my wedding, I can't tell you how useful little touches like this are, especially when someone goes out of their way to get it for you. Help is actually the best gift of all.

Movie Match-Up: Aviator

 Good evening, lovelies. I wanted to share my love for the movie The Aviator. While the movie itself an emotional roller-coaster, the styles keep me on a constant emotional high. It probably has something to do with my crush on the era and Katharine Hepburn - played by Cate Blanchett who I also care a great deal for - but c'mon, who can say they wouldn't want to attend a party like the below?!

The following is what I'm calling a Movie Match-Up. I hope you enjoy...

 Lipstick, Dress, Ring, Earrings
The dress and the earrings aren't quite the same but it's similar with a modern spin.

I couldn't find anything close to how amazing Kate Beckinsale's (Ava Gardner) glasses are but these are pretty close.

 

Similar style dresses and Jimmy Choo Shoes.