Aukland, NZ

We made it to Aukland, and so far New Zealand is amazing.......

NZ Fashion Week 2009 at our hotel (Westin)
Gorgeous Harbour
Sail boats galore
Rugby on every TV
4 Seasons in 1 Day
The nicest people on earth
Delicious greenlipped mussels
Tasty Sauv Blanc wines, and so many choices
Cheese, cheese and more cheese

Off to bike wine country today!

Green Fresh Florals: Grand Opening

Green Fresh Florals is planning it's grand opening for September 25-27 in Hillcrest (3785 4th Avenue - at Robinson). The weekend long celebration will include champagne, in-store specials and more. Definitely recommend checking out the store - I would be there, but unfortunately I will be abroad in New Zealand.

San Diego Restaurant Week

It's arrived, San Diego's Restaurant Week, September 13-18. It's the perfect opportunity to try out a new restaurant or one you've been eyeing, as they have over 180 restaurants to choose from. Also, it's a spectacular deal for a three course meal, ranging from $20, $30 and $40.

I am away on business travel this week, so unfortunately I will not get to enjoy this year. But if I was there, I would have gone to Bleu Boheme, Cowboy Star or Blanca! Looking forward to the feedback on our cities delicious eateries!

St Regis Monarch Beach

Over Labor Day weekend I had the pleasure of taking a mini-getaway to the St Regis Monarch Beach resort. It's about 45 minutes north of San Diego in Dana Point (Orange County), set along the coast with a spectacular golf course, gorgeous pool, lush gardens, decadent food, and a heavenly spa. Needless to say, I had a wonderful time of relaxing in luxury. I didn't want to leave, and I am sure if you go, you'll feel the same......

The Gallery: San Diego Museum of Art

Last night I attended the launch party at the San Diego Museum of Art for it's latest venture, The Gallery.  It's a new group of members that are interested in art, collecting and local happenings.  The goal is to gather young art enthusiasts and leverage the resources in the museum (curators, artists, collectors, etc) to promote collaboration and communication in the art world through a variety of social, educational and philanthropic events.  

The launch was enjoyable, and I met a lot of really nice people.  Held in the Thornton Rotunda inside the main museum, cocktails and conversation flowed, and private tours were given of the Picasso, Miro Calder and Calder Jewelry exhibits (provided by Julie Marciari-Alexander and John Marciari).  

It looks to be a great idea.  Sign me up.

    

Daily Candy

Just like the clothing in my closet, I go through phases of "favorites" with websites.  I recently stumbled upon a trusty go-to site on my Bookmark List, Daily Candy (est. 2000).  The website is an insiders guide to everything hot and undiscovered.  I have always wished that Daily Candy would come to San Diego, but in the meantime, I am happy reading about Los Angeles and the all inclusive, Everywhere.  I sometimes spy on other cities too, like San Francisco, Washington DC and New York, and send friends links to awesome local finds!  

For this past Christmas, I received The Daily Candy Lexicon, a book of words that don't exist but should.  It's a collection of fantastic expressions that can ironically apply to my own life, like Dance Dance Evolution (The fantastical notion, after a few rounds of drinks, that you are an incredibly gifted dancer) or E-Maul (To stalk someone via email).  

Check out Daily Candy, but chances are it'll become addictive! 

Chalkboard Decals: Rococo

I have long been a fan of wall decals.  It's a perfect alternative to stenciling and wallpaper, which gives detail without the commitment.  And there are so many companies out there that offer creative designs.  

This particular design from Wall Candy Arts is a chalkboard decal.  Not only is the functional aspect appealing, but the cut-out is a stylish form, with a Louis XIV essence.  I want one!