I recently ordered a box of cookie dough that is egg-less, meaning you can eat it straight out of the jar! Edoughble is a fun company out of LA that sells this cookie dough in many flavors, too. Once I got these in the mail, I knew I would have to make a post about it. I ordered Chocolate Chip Off The Ol' Block, Birthday Bash and S'more Please. As the info card suggests, they say you can eat it as-is, scoop it on top of your favorite ice cream, or mix it in with your favorite brownie mix, cake mix, etc. I plan to do all three, but for now, I'm a straight-out-of-the-box kinda girl. Everyone, go order some Edoughble! It makes a great gift, too (even for Mother's Day which is just around the corner)!
When I was little, I was obsessed with The Brady Bunch. So much so, that I wrote letters to every cast member of the show, hoping that I would receive a letter back. To my surprise, both Ann B Davis (Alice!) and the creator of the show (Sherwood Schwartz) sent me back signed photos, and hand written notes, thanking me for taking the time to write to them. I've always been drawn to innocent, wholesome shows (like Full House, another favorite), especially those that revolve around amazing wardrobes. I'm pretty envious of all the girls' outfits on this particular show (and their hair, for that matter), and thought I would pay homage by sharing a little collage of some of my current favorite Brady Bunch-inspired clothes and home accessories that are selling on Modcloth and Bait Footwear's websites right now. Enjoy!
It's no surprise that Elvis Presley is one of my all time favorite musicians, but he's also one of my favorite actors, too. I recently went on an Elvis movie-watching binge, and was able to see 29 out of the 33 total movies he made (31 were scripted, two were concert performance documentaries). Though most of his films are considered to be pretty awful (formulaic with bad scripts, cheap sets and throw away music), I really enjoy most of them. They're quirky, fun, and the music is still great (because it's Elvis, and he can do no wrong in my eyes). I would say the ones that are definitely not worth running out to see are Clambake (except for the bizarre scene in which he sings to children in a schoolyard), Paradise Hawaiian Style, and Harum Scarum. He was obligated to act in at least three movies a year, giving him almost no time to tour which was something he was really loved to do, and hadn't done since before going into the army. Here's a list of my top Elvis picks to see.
1. Live A Little, Love A Little (1968), Directed by Norman Taurog
Elvis played a photographer, who was lured into living with a crazy, bohemian woman and her dog. Elvis was in top form when he filmed this, partly because he was preparing for the 1968 Comeback Special (basically the best live show he ever was a part of. Also... leather suit. Enough said.) He had energy, looked excited to be part of it, and his acting/comedy were genius. I also love the psychedelic scene where he sang "Edge of Reality" (which involved him falling down a rabbit hole and a talking dog), as well as the party scene where he sang "A Little Less Conversation" (be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the goofiest red headed guy, dancing in the background). I can't get enough of this movie. I'll admit I've probably seen it 20 times, and it never gets old. To me, it's unlike any of his other movies because in this one, the story actually had a plot, the characters were dynamic, the music was great, and Elvis was at his best. It was one of the more "adult" films that he worked on, and I totally love that about it. As fun as it is to watch all the silly, vacant Elvis films, it's nice to see him in something he could really sink his teeth into. You can tell from watching that he took this role very seriously, and I can safely say it's my favorite Elvis movie.
2. Viva Las Vegas(1964), Directed by George Sidney
This is basically the quintessential musical comedy that Elvis starred in. It's a film that most people have heard of, and was the most successful at the box office. But there's definitely a reason for it. At this time, Elvis was 29, and was in the midst of those silly, poorly written films, and though this storyline wasn't the strongest of the bunch, it packed the most punch because of his co-star, Ann Margret, who was considered to be the female Elvis of that time. She had the ultimate sex appeal, was wild and crazy, and had incredible charisma. Together, they had sizzling chemistry that you could see and feel when watching them together. Elvis played a race car driver (which was a profession he was to play in many of his films) who fell in love with a swim instructor at the local hotel he was working at part time. I particularly love the song Ann Margret sang, "My Rival" in which she prepared sandwiches while singing and dancing around the kitchen. It's an incredible piece of cinema that sadly did not get the credit it deserved. My favorite dance number would have to be the one below for "C'mon Everybody". You can't help but snap your fingers and wiggle around like Ann did here. I mean, the lady was crazy for Elvis, and who could blame her? (On a side note, my best friend's father who is a dance choreographer was a dancer in this film, which makes it even more exciting for me especially since we've been best friends since we were six and the lightbulb on this only JUST went off recently). The one thing I don't understand, though, is the bizarre ending, which if you don't know what I'm talking about, you'll have to see for yourself.
3. Blue Hawaii (1961), Directed by Norman Taurog
Elvis, beautiful shots of Hawaii AND Angela Lansbury playing his mom? Genius. It's the perfect setting for an Elvis film. He played a tour guide in this one, and there were many great songs/dance numbers. It's kind of the perfect Elvis film, and I don't know what to say about it other than that. Also, he wore short shorts. My favorite musical number was when Elvis landed in jail. It really reminds me of what Johnny Depp's character did in "Cry Baby" when he was in jail singing his parts for "Please Mr Jailer". In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if John Waters borrowed from Blue Hawaii. It's a great scene, where Elvis is acting pretty simply, and with a great song to go along with it.
4. Tickle Me (1965), Directed by Norman Taurog
Good god. This movie. Well, in a nutshell, it's one of Elvis' campiest movies to date. In it, Elvis played a rodeo rider, who ended up in a small town, and took a job at a spa for women (actresses, models and the like), who were paying to stay there to lose weight. It's a really bizarre concept, and totally ridiculous, but SO fun. Elvis sang to a bunch of women in cool 1960's bikinis, and even ended up in a haunted house in an old western town. I really love it for its stupidity. It's sort of a mockery of the type of movies he did where girls were falling all over him. In this, the "falling all over" thing is to the extreme. He definitely looked like he was having fun, and didn't care that the script was so dumb (well, he probably did, but you can't tell). It did actually have somewhat of a plot, the wardrobe was pretty great (and the songs weren't half bad, either). My favorite scenes were when Elvis was inside the haunted house (or more like, haunted, abandoned motel) because the set is so fun, and Elvis was just being so cool and relaxed throughout the whole thing. Love this one to pieces.
5. Double Trouble (1967), Directed by Norman Taurog
I'll admit it. This is easily one of the stupidest Elvis movies ever made. It is TRULY a bad film. But I think that's why it's so great. The girl who played his co-star had never been in a film before, and I think she was actually pretty charming for having zero experience. But they had little chemistry, and the songs were really trivial. This film did actually have a plot, and it is a rather fun one, at that, because you get to see some action (multuple people following him across Europe to either capture the girl or to steal money from his suitcase). I just think it's a fun ride and there's no reason not to like it if you're prepared to watch something that is pretty horrendous (if you are a big film snob who can't stand campy musical comedies - this is not for you). In this film, Elvis played a touring musician who was dating an underage girl (who had been lying about her age). She traveled with him around Europe as he swore he was going to bring her to her aunt in Sweden because he couldn't be with a girl so young (which is funny, because in real life, Elvis had a thing for young girls). But you know.. he obviously fell for her in the end. Oh and the scene in Antwerp when they were at the carnival.. pretty surreal (and the masks were cool). Oh! And my best friend's dad (who I mentioned earlier into this blog post), made an appearance dancing near Elvis once again (wearing a Pinocchio-like costume). I really shouldn't be showing this scene as an example of why this movie is so bad it's good, but in a way, I can't NOT show this. With an oink oink here, oink oink there...
Honorable Mentions:
Spinout (Shelley Fabares co-starred in this one as well, and it almost made the list):
Girl Happy (Another fun-loving, easy-breezy Elvis musical co-starring Shelley Fabares):
Change of Habit (co-starring Mary Tyler Moore! His last feature film and most serious role to date as he played a doctor in the ghetto):
As you read in my last post, I recently (well, not SO recently) moved across town to an eclectic neighborhood in Los Angeles located on the "east side" of town, near Hollywood and Silver Lake. I've always loved the east side of the city because it has a real community feel. I love being able to run into old friends while I'm taking a stroll, and seeing familiar faces at the shops I go to frequently. But, it's not just the community that I've come to love, it's also the shops themselves! These are just some of my favorites (there are many!).
1. Figaro Cafe - Best Happy Hour / This is THE place to go if you want fancy drinks and fancy french food for cheap. I happen to love their artichoke ravioli (with truffle oil, $6), and I always get a glass of their Lillet Blanc ($5)! Happy hour runs between 4-7 pm every day of the week. Plus, who doesn't want to just dine leisurely at a bistro on Vermont Ave?
2. Skylight Books - Best Neighborhood Bookstore (and the only one, really, for good reason!) / This is an amazing bookstore with events happening every week. They also have a sister book store next door that carries more "art books" like music biographies, graphic novels and the like.
3. Tomato Pie - Best Pizza (non vegan) / What's not to love about a bright orange and blue pizza joint? This cute little pie shop houses the tastiest pizzas ever, including The Florentine (jam-packed with veggies so I don't feel AS guilty eating it), delectable garlic knots, and the prices are pretty reasonable. I was going to also highlight my favorite vegan pizza spot called Cruzer, but I couldn't find a pretty picture of their shop to post, haha. If you are looking for vegan, this shop off Hillhurst is THE place for yummy non dairy/non real meat pizzas. I'm addicted to their gluten free pizza crust which is buttery and crunchy in just the right places. My favorite pizzas are their BBO Chicken, and Philly Cheese Steak. Also, you have to try their potato wedges with vegan ranch dressing or else. There are no words.
4. Little Dom's - Best Romantic Dinner / Ahh.. what's not to love about Little Dom's? Well, for one, they have a great deal on Mondays which includes an appetizer, main course, and dessert, all for $15! Also, many movies have been filmed here, including We Bought A Zoo (which is not one of my favorites but hey - it's cool to see Matt Damon sitting in one of my favorite restaurants). What I love most, though, is the atmosphere. They play cool music, serve yummy Italian food (mmm pasta), and sometimes I don't know that I'm sitting behind a famous person (last time it was Kristen Wiig) which adds to the experience. This will always be my favorite Valentine's Day AND Birthday dinner spot. Oh and their breakfast/brunch is pretty stellar, too.
5. Los Feliz 3 Cinema - Best Movie Theater / Many would disagree with me on this and say that the Vista is their favorite theater (another vintage theater in the vicinity), but I have always loved this theater. They always have three movies to choose from and it has such a classic, nostalgic feel to it.
6. Spitfire Girl - Best Spot for Fun Gifts / I love this little gem of a shop! I come here when I want to find a unique birthday present for a friend (like their Birthday In A Jar kit, which includes random items such as a balloon, fortune teller and confetti), or cute glasses for the kitchen (my favorites are the cats wearing pirate eye patches). They also have handmade greeting cards, pillows, jewelry, and more, most of which is handmade by the owner herself!
8. Ramekin - Best Dessert Spot / I only recently discovered the genius that is Ramekin. As you can probably guess, every dessert here is served in a ramekin. The bread pudding is pretty much heaven, and their chocolate chip cookie is a little raw in the middle, and chewy on the outside, which to me is the perfect combo. I love to just sit outside and chat with friends for hours (they're open late!), sipping on tea + eating these yummy treats.
I've been waiting 5 months to show everyone our glorious new apartment, and now the day has finally come! Now let's get started!
My boyfriend and I found this gem of an apartment back in October of 2013. I had been on the hunt for a 1920's apartment with hardwood floors, a tiled kitchen and bathroom, and plenty of white space to decorate with tons of color. I stumbled upon this apartment after a friend of mine signed the lease on a different apartment in the complex. Once I walked in, I knew it was the one! Ever since, I've been filling this space with my favorite pieces of art, furniture, and little knick-knacks. It is an ever-growing project, and I know I will never really be "finished", but for now I'd say it looks pretty good. It is on the east side of Los Angeles, in a little neighborhood known as Los Feliz. I love being here because we're so close to Griffith Park, the Observatory, and some of my all-time favorite restaurants and shops (a post on that is coming later).
I love the door mat that I purchased from Lulu + Georgia. It's so cheerful, just like the apartment!
{ Living room }
{ I love the mix of colors and patterns in this room. I wanted to give it an old Hollywood feel so I purchased the faux suede navy blue tufted touch from Macy's as soon as I saw it. I wanted to mix in modern which is why I chose the chevron rug. As for the chair, I'm a sucker for anything that resembles Palm Springs, and that chair really has that feel to it. It was purchased from Joss & Main! People always comment on my Elvis life-sized stand-up. I LOVE to make people smile and this was my way of keeping the room less serious. Sadly most of the time I keep it tucked away in our bedroom closet because Ringo loves to scratch it }
{ I scoured Etsy for prints I'd been coveting for years, such as the Royal Tenenbaums print by Nan Lawson, as well as a Rifle Paper Co print and one that I purchased at Sugar Paper! The little 1920's girls were purchased from Flapper Doodle }
{ ^ I am obsessed with my White Faux Taxidermy unicorn head! This company makes the most beautiful fake animal heads that I've ever seen and they are really reasonably priced and fast to send! I also love my little squeaky poodle doll from my favorite little shop called Pygmy Hippo Shoppe! Unfortunately, I didn't know that they sold a cat version until after this photo was taken! Of course, I had to get one to keep my poodle company }
{ I think the kitchen is probably my pride and joy. I put a lot of effort into making this room as cheerful as possible! Starting with my set of bright yellow metal chairs from Overstock.com, I built the room around those chairs. My favorite pieces in the kitchen are my wood die-cut signs from Everyday Is A Holiday. Jenny and Aaron are the sweetest people and make every effort to make sure you get your signs promptly and are happy and satisfied with your order(s)! Truth be told, I actually just ordered their jumbo stack of pancakes die cut and I have no idea where to put it. I'm going to run out of room! :) }
{ Bathroom }
{ Bedroom }
{ As if you couldn't guess already, I love sweets! If I had it my way, I'd be wearing a donut sweater, ice cream earrings, and eating a cupcake at the same time. So the only logical thing to do while planning this room was to hunt down the coziest, cutest dessert decor I could find. The donut and ice cream pillows are from Dylan's Candy Bar. There's a cupcake, too, but I decided two were enough. The typewriter purse is by Kate Spade and was purchased for me as a birthday gift by my boyfriend. The gold dots on the wall are by UW Decals (There are even more of them on the wall that isn't visible! I love gold confetti and have no qualms putting it anywhere }
{ The illustration on the wall was designed by Neiko of PaperPlants on Etsy. I love it so much and she captured Ringo so perfectly! }
{ Random shots for fun }
{ I can't get enough of Oh Joy for Target! I bought so much from the line it's ridiculous! }
{ Ringo was basically the star of the show. I counted and he appeared in almost every room shot! }
We are lucky to have a gorgeous fountain right outside our living room! I couldn't have asked for anything more soothing. I always think that it's raining and then I remember what it is. There's a bench that's not pictured here. I would love to just sit and read by it. I'm definitely going to plan on that happening once it gets warmer out (which has already started happening)
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