Disneyland on Thanksgiving?

Who would think to go to Disneyland on Thanksgiving? Well, that was the one wish Erin had for her birthday, which happened to fall on Thanksgiving Day this year. So, in order to grant her wish... Nicole, Erin, & I went to Disneyland on Thanksgiving. We pretended, this year, that Thanksgiving was on Wednesday instead of Thursday. You would have never know the difference.
Here are some pics of the magical trip to Disneyland!

Bakerella Bonita!

Heather came across this blog entry that we were both dying over. I'm having major BE (Blog Envy)! Take a look at this entry- it inspired me. Adorably adorable!
{click on the picture to see the full entry on Bakerella}

Oh, Buble

Michael Buble's new album, Crazy Love, is just about to launch in to my life. The record just hits the stores and I'm quite excited... not quite as excited as I would be see him in concert again. He is an amazing singer & performer. For those of your that are fans, you have to watch his new video, 'Haven't Met You Yet'! He seems to have a new look, too!
(click on the picture below)

Ra Ra RUGS! ...& more

Heather just sent me this link to all these amazing rugs: Designers Guild! They're a bit pricey, but great styles & inspiration. This one just jumped out at me:

Loving Laguna

I was so lucky to go to the Montage in Laguna last weekend with Erin & Nicole. Erin so generously invited Nicole and I for a weekend of R&R. Even though I could only go on Friday and part of Saturday, it was well worth it. Just sitting by the pool and relaxing was just what I needed. That property is amazing... the views, the luscious rooms, the food, everything. Look at the amazing sunset on Friday night!!

Wedding... Catalina Style

I went to Catalina last weekend to my first wedding on the island, and it turned our beautifully! Nicole came down Saturday to spend the night with me... and we spent the day with Kathy & Shay exploring Avalon. Take a looksie...

Color Combo: Teal & Raspberry

While helping a bride find her colors for her wedding, we came across this beautiful color combo. I have to admit, lately, I've been very in to the blue & raspberry combo... especially an aqua/teal blue with the raspberry. Love it ... what do you think??

Not to mention, my new FAVORITE nail polish color: Perky Purple by Essie (or Bermuda Shorts by Essie). Very different than my usually pale pink or dark red variations. You must try!

Breaded Chicken Goodness

Yesterday on my day off, I was watching Barefoot Contessa {out of the corner of my eye while I played around on my computer}. She was making a breaded chicken salad... and, of course, I thought "I can do that". So, tonight instead of going to work out like I normally do, I cooked (yes, counter productive). This time it was just for me, myself, and I... but, I can't wait to make for some company! I definitely have been given my mother's ability to improvise in the kitchen, so excuse the lack of precise measurements. I just had to share! It is de-lisc-ious!!!

(Note: I am writing these instructions as I eat... in between bites)

Breaded Chicken:
Boneless/Skinless Chicken Breasts (as much as you need for the amount of guests)
Seasoned Bread Crumbs (I bought Progresso Garlic & Herb)
1-3 Eggs
Flour (about 1 1/2 cups)
Salt/Pepper
Parmesan Cheese
Olive Oil & Butter

Steps to Delisciousness:
1. Get 3 bowls.
2. In Bowl 1: flour, salt, pepper, Bowl 2: Breadcrumbs & Parmesan Cheese, Bowl 3: Beated eggs & a Touch of Water.
3. Pound Chicken between wax/parchment paper to flatten.
4. Heat olive oil (about 1/4 cup) & butter (about 2ish tablespoons)
5. Dip flatten chicken in flour, bathe in egg mixture, douse with breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to fully cover the chicken.
6. Lie the seasoned chicken in the sizzling butter/oil for about 4-ish minutes (until brown)- then flip.
7. Remove from pan & admire your delicious creation!
8. Repeat as necessary for all the chicken (you may need to add more butter/oil in between batches).

Salad
I served myself the chicken over a bed of soft, leafy greens with cherry tomatoes and a lemon/olive oil dressing (just combined olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and salt/pepper).

Reader Note: let me know if you have any questions & PLEASE let me know if you make it- my mouth is very happy right now!

Bon Appetit!

My Most FAVORITE Things: The "Bears"

"Oh my, Bears!" If I would have had a wish for my stuffed animals to come to life, I would find my self very lucky. Charlie & Lucy (aka the Bears...or Beawrs) are 2 of the most cutest things that exist in this world. In the last year, I have been separated from them - their full time Mama is Heather who now lives in Austin- and I miss them TERRIBLY. There are no words to describe the joy they bring.

BEAR/CHARLIE

LU

The Dynamic Duo "Bear & Lu Lu"

Etsy Find: Paloma's Nest

You are going to love this ...Especially if you like sentimental keepsakes! I was introduced to Paloma's Nest from a bride who used the ring ceramic bowl in her ceremony.

Here is are some tidbits 'About' the company:

"Paloma's Nest is the creative work of Caroline Colom Vasquez, an artist and designer living in the vibrant city of Austin, Texas {NOTE: Heather, go check em' out!}. Paloma's Nest is dedicated to creating modern heirlooms -- pieces for the home and for the heart. Each Paloma’s Nest piece is designed and individually hand-crafted with care, pride, and passion. Ceramic bowls, tiles, and decorative pieces are intended to last for generations, and so they are crafted with the finest natural materials available, including porcelain and clay, wood, paper, and cloth."

"Caroline designed and debuted the beloved Ring Bearer Bowl™, a tiny ceramic dish that replaces the traditional ring pillow in a wedding celebration, to much international acclaim in 2008. Couples around the world are choosing a custom Paloma’s Nest dish to include in their ceremony, knowing that the piece will become a treasure in their family."

Product of the Moment: Kiehl's Dry Oil

I highly recommend this product for silky smooth hair and skin. Plus, it has a natural, earthy scent that leaves a great trail of yummi-ness behind. Unlike other Moroccan oils, this one from Kiehls is good for both your hair (wet or dry) and your skin. Oil up!

My new workout: Ballet Bootcamp

Check out my newest fitness addiction: Cardio Barre. It's basically like ballet on drugs (sans the leotard), but a great workout! I love it- let me know if anyone wants to join me sometime...

I'm Back....

Okay, so summer is my BUSY month with wedding craze at work. My Saturdays are filled with beautiful brides and gaga grooms. So, by popular demand {Heather}, I am back to blogging. Check out The Hidden Garden blog to see what I've been up to.

Once In 30 Years!

New York Pictures

New York, New York

So, wow, I've fallen a bit behind on my blogging. Just a brief update... I'm off to the city of NEW YORK on Friday. Jenny and I are going to have such a great time, and just can't wait to be out and about. I'll post the pictures when i get back!

30 Club (Brittany)

Happy 30th Brittany
Original "Celibacy in the City" Gal
I was lucky enough to meet Brit at church about 3 years ago, and we've remained friends ever since. What a gal!

30 Club (Miss Forkish)

{This is the year of turning 30. I truly can't believe it, but I'm in the 30 club as well!}
________________________

Happiest 30th Birthday, Jen
"The One & Only Ren Rorkish"
April 4th

I've known Jen since we met in the 7th grade in Mrs. Hotchkiss' science class... the rest is history.

Something New {Your Neighborhood Studio}

As many of you know, I am obsessed and loyal to my work outs and fitness. I joined the fancy Equinox last fall, and have truly enjoyed the club; however, I have come to my senses of the outrageous (yet worth it) dues and have decided to find classes to attend in the community. For those of you that are in LA, I encourage you to join me. Let me know if you're interested in any of these:

The Neighborhood Studio (Culver City)
Zumba, Booiaka, Burlesque

Body Theory (North Hollywood)
"Tae Bo" Kickboxing

3rd Street Dance (Los Angeles)
Salsa/Dance Lessons

Tribute to a Marvelous Man {Irvin Freeman}

Irvin Freeman

January 9, 1912 - March 28, 2009
At the healthy age of 97, my Uncle Irv has left this race. His charm, humor, wit, charisma, class, and love will remain in me forever. My life is better & richer by knowing him...

My Debut (KTLA)

I've always had this hidden dream to be on TV as a host, reporter, anchor, etc. Today, I got to... well... watch the KTLA Morning Show from the set. The Hidden Garden (my work) created a beautiful spring set for their spring fashion segment. It was very interesting to watch the working of a news set, and just observe all the details. So, I didn't make my big break yet... but, maybe one step closer. Take a look at the beautiful spring set and my picture with Lawrence Zarian "The Fashion Guy".

Blog Find {Rainbow Cake}

I just found this absolutely adorable rainbow cake idea ~ that, then, lead me to a super creative and handy cooking blog (see blog for cake batter tutorial): Omnomicon. This tutorial on the 'oh so' colorful cake batter would be perfect for many different themed parties, or just to brighten a dessert gathering. Now, don't feel like you have to just stick to rainbow colors, this look can be done with any combination of colors.... red, white & blue for 4th of July... the birthday girl/boy's favorite colors... GET CREATIVE!

By Special Request {personalized labels}

By special request, it's the do it yourself labels that can be created at My Own Labels. If you're anything like me, you'll want to start personalizing anything you bake, everything for a party, and start jarring your own recipes. They are super cute, and add a super special touch to any packaging. The company also has a separate section for wedding related labels. I made a label for Whitney's baby shower and they were a hit, and affordable! Happy Labeling!

My (fabulous) Caribbean Cruise

How does time possibly go so fast? I'm back from the Caribbean cruise,
and had a blast.I would go back tomorrow! I was truly able to relax and unwind,
so much that it's hard to come back to real life. I met lots of great people,
and had a great time with Jen.
Here are some pictures (note: a feeling of jealousy will follow).

Wedding Time {Alisa & Joel}

Just thought I would share a few pictures from a wedding I did at the end of 2008 at Skirball. I loved working with Alisa & Joel (and their family) to create their beautiful, elegant, and edgy wedding. Enjoy!

Bon Voyage!

This Friday I will depart to Miami to start my 7 day vacation! I am more than excited (to say the least). Jen [Forkish] and I will board the Carnival Liberty for our cruise to the Western Caribbean.

New Arrival {Kaden Nicholas Mosley}

Shane, Nikki, & Kendall welcomes the arrival of

Kaden Nicholas Mosley
born Thursday, February 5, 2009 at 9:30pm
8 lbs., 11 oz. and 21 1/2 in.

(Could you just bite him?! So cute! )
Congrats Nikki & Shane ~ I CANNOT wait to meet him!

"My Love" Heart Necklace

A simple gold heart necklace titled "My Love". How appropriate for this time of year. I truly love it! Check out the other designs by this very simple & interesting designer: LFJewelryDesigns.

Eye Candy

I came across this website of a NY company that specializes in specialty dessert tables. Each one is more appealing than the next. For all my sugary sweet friends who love this stuff as much as I do... you must take a look at Amy Atlas Events! Enjoy...

Inspiration {Elle's Studio}

I came across this website of (what looks like) a scrapbook supply website. I, myself, do not scrap...however, I found the items in Elle's Studio to be very creative & inspiring. Not to mention, very reasonably priced. Take a look for yourself! I don't think I can resist these valentine inspired buys:

Cute as a Button

You are not going to believe when I tell you this bag of buttons is made from chocolate. What a great idea for a shower favor. Go to the Bake It Pretty blog for a complete how-to & templates to print the packaging tags. Then, go to the Bake It Pretty website for an ocean of baking ideas & accessories! Gives true meaning to "cute as a button".

Cute Valentine Buy {Perfect Match}

I saw this perfect match & perfectly adorable necklace and couldn't resist sharing it with you. What a cute Valentine's gift. Visit yellowgoat to more cute stuff just like this...

"Do Something Creative Every Day" {Paper Source}

"Do something creative every day" is their motto...
You can often find me walking back & forth in the Beverly Hills Paper Source, pining over my current creative stationary/invite projects. They have everything from solid paper in a multitude of sizes & shapes... to beautiful stamps...to exquisite wrapping papers... & letter pressed greeting cards. Now, it seems that they are having a wedding workshop {right up my ally}. Take a look at the website for great ideas!

Arizona Love {my other family}

I am so lucky and blessed to have such wonderful people in my life, and to call family. Some people go through life without having a single person in their life that mean as much to them as this one family does to me! I spent the best New Year celebration with the DiPadova family. I could not have imagined a holiday season without them. I can't believe it's been almost 12 years since we met, and I couldn't imagine my life without them in it. Thank you LInda, Nick, Danielle, Rob, Nikki, Shane, Nick, Mike, Holly & all the beautiful kiddies for making my trip to Arizona so fun. I can't wait to see you all soon!

Quote of the Week {january 24}

Pink Frosted Goodness

What is cuter & more delicious than a perfectly small, pink, & frosted cupcake? Not much! It was equally tasty as it was adorable. Visit Vanilla Bake Shop to see more candy {cupcakes} for your eyes.