Cello Suite

Me improvising.

Me and Tim Hughes, Cello 1st Chair of the London Symphony Orchestra.

I've been playing the most beautiful string instrument since I was 7.  Love, mad men and work have intercepted my continuum of moving the bow up and down and becoming the master cellist I dreamed of being. I've always wanted to play at Carnegie Hall. That was a seed planted by my father.

But, things don't always go as planned and here I am, staring at my cello, encased in a pretty starch white plexiglass form and begging to make it a principle win my life again. I'm working on that. It's a deep part of my life that represents my highest creative self and expressive soul.

I most recently played in string quartet in Atlanta, covering everything from Dvorak to Bohemian Rhapsody. But, our creative differences riffed us apart. I wanted to perform; they just wanted to get enjoy a weekly playing session. I moved on and now just play at home, here and there. But it's calling me. Loudly.

A one-on-one interview with personal chit chat with Master cellist Tim Hughes of the London Symphony Orchestra resulted in an invite to study with him in the U.K. And I didn't didn't take him up on it. Not even after three days of jaw-dropping LSO performances I had the honor of attending a few years back convinced me to drop all I was doing. It should have.

I then listen to pieces like Bach's Cello Suite No. 1  one of my all-time favorite string compositions and I'm moved to do something radical. It's genius and tells a lovely and breath-taking romantic story. Listen to it.

While I work on becoming that master cellist -- if even in my head or in the intimacy of my home or recording studio -- I love perusing images of cello's, cellists and sexy images that depict a most somber and warm tone. Even one of me a few years back in my front yard!


*all images via Pinterest and Google with the exception of the last two, which are mine! :)  

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Sexy Shoe Sunday

These lovelies require no occasion other than your heart fluttering in excitement. Christian Louboutin knocked the mood board out of the design room when he came up with these blue soled shoes.  Specifically marketed for brides to satisfy that social wedding etiquette of donning something azul, these do the job. I'd like to think these babies would be on my foot just because my soul and soles would be super, super happy.

Gown or no gown.

Man or no man.

I'm in love.

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On Being Orgullosa. A Proud Life Stylist

I love licking the homemade cream cheese icing on a decadent carrot or German chocolate cake. I love even more the idea of having a pair of Louboutins specially designed for you and then signed by the designer himself.  That's how sexy it is being a Latina. It's having the best of both worlds -- the American freedom and the Latin hustle and sassiness.

That's what most of my life has been like -- a delicious and swanky affair with a rich culture. I enjoy and live the vibrancy, electricity and colorful energy we bring to the everyday home, party and just about any situation. Latinas walk in hundreds of shades, dialects, body shapes and deep-rooted traditions. That's unique and exciting.

Orgullosa, an interactive movement  focused on celebrating the distinct qualities of a Latina is something that deserves a bit of your attention! They promote our awesomeness and go-getter attitude. I've not come across too many camps that exclusively highlight what we do and how we live. I perused their site and got to thinking...

When I think about what makes me an orgullosa Latina, the tenacity to succeed and stand out as an influencer, and our level of standard in caring for our home and families screams out! Yeah, I'm single, living in a super chic apartment in two cities, and am childless, but honey's, that sure hasn't barred me from living the most fabulous vida that leaves my friends intrigued and wanting to learn more. It's the feisty yet polished Spanglish, the Latin spices and herbs in my kitchen, the sensual dancing (think William Levy in Dancing With The Stars!), the intense dominoes game in the middle of a workday, and the ruffle top, stilettos and fedora ensemble that doesn't look like I'm a character in Evita.

A really intense game of dominoes at my parents house.

Si, I went to college and started a law school program, but being the owner of my business and calling my own shots defines an orgullosa woman!

Being recognized in a national magazine because of my sense of style is exciting! That phone call with yelps of "thank you!" because a client or friends look was a head-turner makes my work as a stylist very exciting. Hosting a cooking class where a new wife walks away confident to cook for her hubby, is rewarding.  Sharing my skills that inspire otras, is something to definitely be proud of.

I am Latina. It's the thread of my character, personality and my drive. It comes out in everything I do. Enjoying my Latin culture to the fullest and still benefitting from living in a country that embraces my individuality, my intelligence while walking in my highest heel, clutching my iPhone and having an intense conversation with Mami in Spanish,  is something to be orgullosa about, no doubt!

Check out & sign up for Orgullosa's community where you can see tips on everything from fashion, makeup an even earn some swag.

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Hats, Hats, Hats Off to the Kentucky Derby

Kim Kardashian, Leanne Rimes & Amanda Lambert 

Adrian Grenier & Isabel Lucas at the 134th Derby

Kris & Kim Kardashian

Nicole Richie in a lemony yellow suit and cloche

The Kentucky Derby!

If you read my food blog today, then you know I'm obsessed with the Derby and have been daydreaming about going ever since I learned that hats and over-the-top, take-a-2nd-look toppers take center stage. What the what?? Hats galore! Yes, please. Over and over again.

Oh, and you hopefully sipped -- virtually -- the mint julep I made.

But, since I'm still not positioned to afford the real ticket I want for this years race, now in its 138th season, I  will just watch -- again-- in amazement and drool over the fashions.

These celebs, probably having no knowledge or interest in the actual race, have graced Churchill Grounds in years past, rocking these ensembles -- some fabulous, some disastrous -- a la Princess Eugenie at her cousin's Royal Wedding last spring.

When I DO go, I'm trusting that I'll have a hat commissioned by non other than Philip Treacy -- the master of the most fabulous, decadent and fanciful hat. Because I'd attend in no other fashion :)  I'll just budget that into the pocket-burning expenses involved with frolicking among the Who's Who!

If a dream maker were to visit me with a last minute ticket, leaving me no time to shop, I'd probably wear this one, originally shared here with a lovely vintage yellow lace and eyelet dress I've yet to wear.

What do you think!?!  Isn't it just pure lush! Drool.

Happy weekend, sassy friends! xo.

*images c/o of US Weekly, FanPop, Zimbio, SportsBetting

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Artistry by Amway

LuXury Creme LuXury Eye cream in the middle

Anti-wrinkle firming serum

Who knew Amway has a beauty and skincare line? I hear it's among the world's leading lines that women flock to. 

When I was in Miami a few weeks ago for an epic conference/event for fabulous Latinos, I had the fun opportunity to meet with the lovely Brazilian rep from Artisty. She introduced me to the line and encouraged me to try the different skincare products that have proven to keep our skin looking young and fabulous.

I'm not the youngest chick in the bunch, but I do have good genes! Fortunately for me, I've not started to show any signs of wrinkles, something I know every woman hates. As  a preventative measure, I've started researching different creams and serums that tighten our facial follicles. Since I've not found that right one, and all the ones that purport to be the absolute "BEST," cost a fortune, I've just not done it. But, since Artistry's claims are big and bold, I'm willing to give a shot. 

I'm particularly interested in the LuXury Creme LuXury Eye which has an ingredient more expensive than gold! Whoa! Anything that costs $175 should definitely bring some serious luminosity to my skin, don't you think? While I have many complaints about my skin (like monthly blemishing), the one thing I really to want to focus on are my eyes and the dark bags I sometimes have. Actually, more than sometimes. I'd rather not use makeup to cover up, but I have to more often than I'd like. The eye cream description is pretty assertive: 

"Creme LuXury Eye is clinically tested to deliver a 94% instant surge in moisture and a 100% improvement in moisture in just two weeks. After four weeks, women who tried Creme Luxury Eye agreed that skin looks firmer – there is a visible reduction in the appearance of wrinkles, and a visual improvement in skin roughness." 

So, Imma start with this and the the Time Defiance collection and let you know it works for me. Looks like I should see a visible difference in two weeks! I'm excited. Maybe less makeup is in my future :) 

What's your skincare dilemma? Is there one thing you'd love to fix? And, what brand(s) are you currently using that you love and have actually seen a difference? 


* I was not compensated for this post but did receive the products pictured above to try out. All opi's are mine and always honest! 

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Dreamy Dressing Room Designs

Restoration Hardware staging

I love my dressing room. I really do. I first started one in 2004 and since then has taken me all this time to really make it look like it's my most perfect place for transforming into the day or night princess. It's been pretty perfect for the last 4 or so. With the 3 moves I've had in the last 7, it's hard to really keep the same aesthetic, but most things are timeless and have a permanent place in the room. It all started because I need a place to house all of my hats. And then my shoes. And then my handbags. And the jewelry and so forth and so on.

It's a dreamy place for me. All of my girlfriends love it and even the guys stare in amazement that a single gal could own so many things -- all of which I wear.

I'm getting ready to make another move! I've been scouring pages, blogs, magazines and even Pinterest in search of new inspiration for a new look and makeover my dressing room will go through. I'm so excited. Some of these closets (though I have an entire 12x12 bedroom) are flawless, delicious and every girls dream!

These are some of my favorites which embody an element that represents my to the T! I've shown you a bit of my dressing room before, but I'll have to do an all out photo shoot showcasing all the fancy details here and there. Soon.

Check out my Dressing Room Pin board to see more of the lovely rooms I'm obsessed with!

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Living an Eco Chic & Beautiful Life With EcoTools

The economy is stale and putting a serious damper on our day to day lives. It’s caused some serious stress in my life and with my over-achiver mentality and all I have scheduled to accomplish on a weekly basis,  I decided not to let any uncontrollable circumstance keep me from living healthy and beautifully. I mentioned to a close friend recently that I was determined to get my happy back!

When I thought about what I'd do to find peace, joy and that all around healthy balance, I got excited! When I find myself stressed out (which is more often than I’d like), I quickly turn to working out. I don’t like working out alone, but I thoroughly enjoy P90x at home. Being able to workout in a familiar space, whenever I like, is priceless! From time to time, I take a break from that and take brisk walks in my bucolic neighborhood.

Reminiscing about a super sweet and breezy trip my family took to Mexico just a few months ago always helps. Looking through the thousands of pictures I took was incredibly soothing and was as close to a virtual escape to a place that holds no responsibility! How could that not help my state of mind! Now, I just needed to think about planning another trip.

Ocean view from our suite in Mazatlan, Mexico

On a more regular basis, volunteering is essential in living a life of meaning and substance. Once a year, I share my time as a camp counselor for a Adventure Amputee Camp, a national program that benefits differently abled children, in which my sister is the Director. It’s the most unassuming 4 days I could ever spend. No makeup, no cell phone, no work! It's a great opportunity to rejuvenate my mind, body and spirit. 

And then there's always prayer. When all else fails, I pray and just wait for an answer. Sometimes sitting still can be so replenishing.

As part of Earth Month, the conscious friends at EcoTools (which I’m dying to try out) understand the importance of living a balanced life. They're encouraging all of us to live a healthy life through interactive conversation in their Living Beautifully Community. They’d love to hear how we live a beautiful life. If you visit their colorful  online community and share how you live your life to the fullest or what you do to decompress, you’ll be entered to win one of their ultra chic beauty brushes (made of bamboo) or other products. I love the idea of engaging readers and shoppers to chat and share ways in which we jump for joy, distress and laugh!

How do you live beautifully? 

If you'd like to see my idea of living a beautiful vida, hop on over to my "Living Beautifully" Pinterest board I've created! You'll get an inviting view of those amazing things, moments and places that make me smile over and over again! 

Live your life... beautifully. 

2. I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and EcoTools blogging program. I was compensated
3. for writing this post, but all opinions and ideas expressed here are my own, always! :)

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About EcoTools:

EcoTools® is a leader in eco-conscious personal care products, with the entire collection of cosmetic brushes and bath + body care products featuring innovative, natural ingredients and earth-friendly materials.

The full line of EcoTools® cosmetic brushes are both beautiful and show respect for the earth.  They are 100% cruelty-free, have incredibly soft bristles made of synthetic taklon and have handles made of bamboo and recycled aluminum ferrules.

Chic Baby. Dior for the Babes, 2012

It hit me over the weekend while hanging in Miami that I'm not getting any younger. As much as I'd like to think I'm in my early 20s, I have come to accept that having children soon is imperative if I want to realize that dream of being a chic and hip mother. To that end, I've made a commitment to settle down with the right man, assuming he exists and is nearby, and start to seriously think about formalizing a fabulous life. 

There is no doubt, my babies will be rocking apparel and stay clad in haute pieces. Not necessarily a look straight from an editorial ad, but certainly a look that leaves onlookers with a huge smile. At least that's how I react when I see little ones dressed to the nine. 

These button babes take children's clothes to another level in these spectacular Dior pieces. I'll take all, please!

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I'm Speaking at Hispanicize in Miami!

This week is about to be exciting! Miami is hosting hundreds of fantastic tastemakers and thousands of bloggers in the Latin community during a week of social media, film and TV, culture and lifestyle. Hispanicize, dubbed more of an "event," has over 125 slated speakers touching on subjects that shape, inspire and build our community. While I've not been in the past, I'm excited that my first attendance will be busy speaking on two panels. I'll be talking food on the "Secret Salsa: How to Create Authentic Brand Ambassadorships And Campaigns With Latino Food Bloggers" and "Livin' La Vida Blogger: How Latino Lifestyle Bloggers Are Engaging Their Communities  and Helping Brands Get in On the Fun." 

While I'm not speaking on the fashion panel, I still have to put chic foot forward. Literally. I have a sprained ankle, now going on 5 months, so my shoe rockin' options are limited. But, I can't spend a week in sexy Miami without some fly shoes. It just won't work. So, thanks to my sister, who's is Physical Therapist, has been throwing me into intense treatment. With all hopes in my pocket, I'm relentless in my efforts to wear heel this week. I've given up on skinny or stiletto heels. Platform wedges are it.

I went out last night and found these super high studded black platforms at Bakers and just fell in love. I was in pain after 10 minutes of walking around in the store, no doubt.  I'll reserve them for more swanky engagements, leaving me with at least one more casual pair. We'll see how it goes. If I have to sport an ankle brace with my shoes for protection and stability, I'm fine with it. The sacrifices we make to stay fashionable and in our element (because flats are not for me) are painful sometimes.

I've not done any additional shopping for my trip but my vintage train case full of beautiful jewelry is a sure go! Here are a few shots of what it looks like. Major editing needed. As it stands, it weighs 20 pounds. I'm thinking 5 will be enough for 7 days!

Stay in touch for fashionable looks from muy sexy Miami! It's set to be glamorous. See you there!

Happy Sunday!

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