Lifestyle :: Change

Under the age of 35, broke [or nearly broke], single, and looking for career growth a job, period?  

That is a tall order these days - for most college graduates, it can be daunting and downright terrifying to realize that you just spent your entire life preparing for a job that you now can't find.  And you don't even have money to take the bus home after the interview.  

Well, here's a little map of the best cities to move to.  Provided you can pay for the gas to get there.  Factors such as cost of living, rent, job availability, other young singles, restaurants, etc., are all taken into consideration.

If you can't make it to one of these cities, you better take the time to learn how to grow your own kitchen-windowsill garden.  And hey, you could always raise a chicken - it will provide you with a source of daily protein and companionship. 


x

RH

"The Story"

The Story :: sung by Brandi Carlisle

All of these lines across my face
Tell you the story of who I am
So many stories of where I've been
And how I got to where I am
But these stories don't mean anything
When you've got no one to tell them to
It's true... I was made for you

I climbed across the mountain tops
Swam all across the ocean blue
I crossed all the lines and I broke all the rules
But baby I broke them all for you
Because even when I was flat broke
You made me feel like a million bucks
You do and I was made for you

You see the smile that's on my mouth
It's hiding the words that don't come out
And all of my friends who think that I'm blessed
They don't know my head is a mess
No, they don't know who I really am
And they don't know what I've been through like you do
And I was made for you...

All of these lines across my face
Tell you the story of who I am
So many stories of where I've been
And how I got to where I am
But these stories don't mean anything
When you've got no one to tell them to
It's true... I was made for you

 
Forget botox, injections, face peels, and plastic surgery.  If you want people to know the real you - the story of your life - then you need to leave that story on your face.  

But then, I guess that these days, a lot of people don't want to share their story.

x

RH 

Sweet Thoughts for the Day

[*As usual, I recommend that these be read in the KJV 1611 format]

x

RH

Map It Out

Sometimes it is difficult to know where to go next.  Maybe there is a bend in the road, hiding what's to come, or there are too many paths to choose from.  Sometimes the way is clouded and foggy, and sometimes you have to trudge through deep waters. 

Stop.  Take a deep breath.  Map it out.  Figure out where you want to go, and decide upon a course to reach your destination.  Don't forget that there may be twists + turns and unexpected roadblocks along the way. 

Don't forget to smell the roses along the way.  You never know if you will be back to that flower patch again.

x

RH

Thoughts On :: Skinny Models

As a general rule, I don't enter into stupid debates about things that are out of my control, can't  won't be fixed, and/or are because people just want to complain about something and waste time.

But then I saw this article and the resulting heated debate about who is to blame for the fashion industry's use of skinny models, and felt like weighing in (pun intended).

Basically what happened was, Kelly Cutrone, from America's Next Top Model, said "Society has a hyper emphasis on thin and that trend comes from the consumers — it does not come from the fashion industry," she said. "The fashion industry needs to make money, that’s what we do. If people said, ‘We want a 300-pound purple person,’ the first industry to do it would be fashion."  And then, everyone got all offended that Cutrone was essentially dodging the blame on behalf of the fashion industry.  

Well here's the thing ... everyone is to blame in some way.  Yet nobody wants to accept their share of the responsibility.  It's the models' choice to starve themselves, or eat wet paper towels or take drugs; they could always go out and try to find some other job like the rest of the world.  It's the choice of the magazine editors to generally always use one size model (while they say they are being 'different' and 'breaking down barriers').  It is the choice of the public, the viewers, the consumers, to enjoy looking at skinnier models and prettier people on television, and creating an alternate dream reality for themselves - a sort of escape from their current 9-to-5 life with too much hard work, too many cookies at lunch, and 'too little time' to do any exercise during the day.

I actually have spent several years in the fashion industry, and hundreds upon hundreds of hours with skinny models, skinny editors, skinny coworkers, skinny bosses, skinny clients...you get the idea.  And to be honest, some of them choose to be skinny through hard work, exercise, and a good diet, and some of them choose to skip meals every day, live on coffee, and then go spend hours at the gym overworking their bodies.  Additionally, living in NYC is different than living anywhere else.  You walk everywhere, you take stairs because the elevators are broken or too crowded, you ride a bike because you can't afford a car, you eat small meals because you don't have time to cook or eat large meals, and you pick healthy foods because your body and lifestyle requires that you have a lot of energy.  

So, where does the finger-pointing, cloaked in superiority and self-righteous hypocrisy, end?  

1. What technically is too skinny?  
2. What technically is too fat?
3. Why is it even considered un-PC to say the word 'fat' and not 'skinny'?  Or considered mean to point out to someone that they are 'overweight', but it's okay to point out that they are 'underweight'?

Nobody talks about how the majority of America is fat.  And I mean, really overweight.  Or how too many people are obese or morbidly obese. Why isn't that provoking the same barrage of heated debates?  Why are we all so busy focusing on only one end of the spectrum while feeding our children McDonald's for breakfast every morning, and choosing to unwind every day with a TV show instead of a really intense workout?  

For those people who do eat well, exercise, stay busy + moving, and try to maintain a healthy weight for their height, genetics, body type, etc. that's great.  I have no more to say to them than 'keep up the good work'.  

Sure, the fashion industry is at the forefront of promoting images of skinny people.  And so is the entertainment industry, and every other industry out there from automobiles to consumer products to food (through their advertisements).  But, common' people.  Be a little responsible for your own lifestyle and your own choices.  



... what do you think?  Are you against the fashion industry for using skinny models?  Do you think everyone is to blame?  Let me know below!


x

RH

Sweet Thoughts for the Day

"As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one."

- Romans 3:10, KJV

"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;"
- Romans 3:23, KJV

"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
- Romans 6:23, KJV

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."
- Romans 10:13, KJV

"But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name;"
- John 1:12, KJV

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
- I John 1:9, KJV

"The Lord is not slack concerning his promise...not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."
- II Peter 3:9, KJV

"...choose you this day whom ye will serve...but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
- Joshua 24:15, KJV



x

RH

Creating :: The Little Touches

Often, when trying to present, or sell, something, it's the small details that can be the biggest deal-breakers...such as the smell of baking cookies in a staged apartment, the angle of the sun in that apartment bedroom, the one sentence in the contract that makes or breaks an entire deal.  

When working in marketing, it's the little touches that can be the most memorable - the font, the colors, the textures.  (Don't believe me?  Just ask Tiffany's about their signature color choice).

When planning an event, it's the tiny things that you have to really be careful about - the weight of the cardstock for the invitations, the amount of olives you stocked up on, the glitter on the table that you thought would be fun but is just sticking to everything and annoying people. 

And the same is true when starting - or while in the process of owning - a business.   

gold-edged business cards are a nice touch

 

embosser stamps for return addresses

rose-print-lined envelopes

pretty cards

So, yes, small details are very worthy of your attention.  Don't overlook them!


x

RH

Why Don't You

Lay low for the day.

There is no need to be everywhere at once.  

At least, not always.  

You can't please everyone, so focus on yourself.

Take some time to be alone...and figure out what you want.

x

RH

Happy Monday

Mondays can be difficult to settle into.  Yes, Mondays sometimes require a lot of work to get started.  And they are followed by so many more days in the work week!

So, here are some lovely little images to kickstart your morning and leave you feeling pretty.

x

RH

Little Delights

"Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens
Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens
Brown paper packages tied up with strings
These are a few of my favorite things ..."

         [  You just started singing that song in your head didn't you?  ]

With all the rain we've been getting, I just want some warm sunshine on my face.  That would make my list of favorite things.  Well, warm sunshine and a few more items...

fresh flowers

coffee + croissants

  

picnics

 

pretty sheets + china teacups

traveling the world

x

RH

Sweet Thoughts for the Day

"The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust."

-Ruth 2:12, KJV

---

"Have I not commanded thee?  Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest."

-Joshua 1:9, KJV

x

RH

Baking :: Banana Bread

I love banana bread.  There is something about it that seems so simple and easy.  It reminds me of my childhood.  And it may as well be healthy, since it is filled with fruit, right?  

I recently dug up an old recipe and went to town.  Literally.  I have made a fresh loaf of banana bread every week for the last month.  It's that good.   And that easy. 



Ingredients:
1 cup white sugar                         2 eggs

1 teaspoon baking soda                1/2 cup softened (or melted) butter
2 cups all-purpose flour                1 + 1/2 cups mashed (or thinly sliced) bananas




Recipe:

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).  Grease (I use butter) and flour one 9x5 inch pan.
  
• Cream butter and sugar until smooth.  Beat in eggs, then bananas. 
  Add flour and baking soda, stirring just until combined.
  
• Pour into prepared pan and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 1 hour (or until knife cuts through it cleanly).  Remove from pan and let cool.  Can be stored in refrigerator or frozen.

Try it ... and let me know what you think.  


x

RH

Visit me on Tumblr

Hello sunshine!

Please come visit me on Tumblr as well - that's my spot for posting pretty pictures.   

x

RH

Why Don't You...

Watch the world go by.

Sit back, enjoy, and just take in everything around you.  

Enjoy the little things, like the wind in your hair, the smell of 

cut grass or salty pretzels, or the soft velvety petals of roses.

Life moves quickly these days, and it is too easy to get caught up in mayhem.

Sometimes we need to stop and just listen and breathe.  And relax.

x

RH

The Body Beautiful

Net-a-porter is working with Miranda Kerr on a series called The Body Beautiful, which highlights her beauty + health regime, focuses on holistic recipes, and educates on the benefits of exercise and yoga.

And, while we don't all have supermodel genetics, she's so dang cute that it is hard not to feel like we are all getting healthier and prettier just by following her advice.


x

RH

Lovely Little Country

It's time to escape to the country.  

Time for the peace and quiet of nature to calm this world-bludgeoned and weary soul. 

Time for the wind to sweep away the tiredness of these old bones.

Time for the rustling leaves and bowing wheat to whisper secrets to me. 

 

x

RH

Organize :: The Kitchen

In most homes the kitchen is the hub of activity.  Sure, the living room and dining room get their fair share of attention, but it's the kitchen that usually attracts the biggest messes and the most creativity.

So, shouldn't your kitchen get a lot of love?  

Organization is key, since anyone from the hostess, the kids, the mothers-in-law, the chef, the wait staff, or the guest who won't just stay in the designated "party room" could walk in at any time and lend their services to the food preparation.

** When grocery shopping, the general rule is that the outer fringes of the store is where the fresh foods are - the produce, the meats, and the dairy.  It's everything in between that is canned, boxed, and salted and preserved.  Ergo, if you are shopping healthy, stay on the outer perimeters.  

via Pinterest

1. The fridge should be stocked with plenty of fresh vegetables + fruits.  
2. Try to have some various water options on hand - seltzer, bottled, tap, or fresh water with fruit slices or herbs.
3. If you can, buy meat when you need it.  Just the idea of storing meat in the fridge for days on-end is unappealing.  And keep in mind, it has already been stored for however long before you bought it; remember it has to go from the butcher, through transportation, and then to the grocers.
4. If you are vegetarian, or don't have a local butcher shop nearby, there are plenty of other great protein sources: avocado, sunflower seeds, nuts, potatoes, honey, etc. 

  

pretty storage

There are literally tons of websites + magazines with thousands of pretty storage ideas.  

And there are also several home design stores (such as Ikea) with modern options and helpful look-books. 

The main idea is to keep the kitchen clutter-free and clean.  You may not be able to afford a full-time housekeeper, but there is no reason for your guests to know that.

Incorporate creative storage options into your house such as keeping your dishes in your island, or having a designated cabinet for the pretty teacups + serving pieces.


Other nice touches include:
- fresh flowers
- pots of fresh herbs in the windows
- matching, seasonal dishtowels
- all-white plates with pretty accent plates



How is your kitchen organized?  I love to hear from you!


x

RH
 

Traveling :: In Style

Taking a trip can be quite exciting and a lot of fun.  And it can be stressful and a lot of work too.  The lines at the airport, the endless security checks, the masses of wandering people, the delays and rescheduled flights ... it can all result in a lot of unnecessary hassle. 

So, what is a girl to do when she just wants to escape for a few days?  Pack lightly, dress efficiently, and get ready for anything.  Packing should be the least of your worries - 

1. Check the weather for your destination, during the time you'll be there.
2. Pick two basic colors and plan to revolve your wardrobe around them.
3. Bring simple items of clothing and some fun accessories - to change up your looks.
4.  If you can, wear your bulkier, heavier items like the coat or boots.

So, for say, a one-week trip, it's best to pack 1 pair of casual slacks / jeans, 1 pair of business slacks, 1 dress, and 1 additional bottom (skirt, shorts or another dress).   Add to the mix 2 casual tops, 2 dressier tops, and 1 sweater or blazer.  One pair of casual shoes (ballet flats are great! but sneakers or cute sandals work too) and one pair of dressy shoes, and you should be set.

Scarves are a great - and in my opinion, necessary - accessory.  They ward off the chill in the airplane, add color to a monochromatic outfit, and can be used in lieu of an umbrella if absolutely needed.  

Don't forget a big purse for all your random items, your water bottle + magazines, and snacks and electronics.  If you plan on attending various events and will need a smaller clutch just put your money, ID and lipstick in the clutch and stick it into the larger purse for space-saving.  

And don't forget the sunglasses!  Happy travels!


x

RH

Fun :: Doghouses

Doghouses are becoming fancy!  Sure dog owners like to pamper their dogs - and in some cases, their dogs are their adopted children.  But what do you think about these options?  Are they really cute or a bit extreme:

Hundehaus Cubix:
- German manufacturing
- premium weatherized wood
- break-proof glass (handy)
- built-in water drain on the roof

*does not come with cute dogs

La Petite Maison:
- custom-made dog mansion
- designed to match your house
- can come with recessed lighting, air conditioning + heating

*does not come with dog / plants

Luxury Caravan Dog House:
- for the on-the-go dog
- made of ceramic
- complete with plush pillow



*I love the pictured clothesline!

Townhouse Doghouse:
- perfect for city dwellers
- doubles as a nightstand or table
- comes with plush interior pillow
- door has removable grate so you can allow your dogs to come and go



*sadly comes without dog

Are your own dogs jealous yet?  Are you inspired to go create a fancy palace for your pet, or do you think this is too extravagant?

x

RH

Cooking :: Parisian Style

I love cooking + baking.  It can either be calming and orderly (baking), where you know what will happen every time if you follow the recipe just so ... or ... it can be a time of creativity and experimentation (cooking).

A while back I ran across these super cute little videos online and thought I'd share them.  I love the tiny bit of European flair + pretty food all packed into an average of 4 minutes.  Even if some of them are too short to really learn the recipe, it is still a fun little bit of transportation into a Parisian kitchen for a few minutes.  Sort of what Julia Child would do if she had today's technology back then.   

Isn't this so fun?  Doesn't it make you just want to go take some cooking classes and then do some serious shopping at the fresh (daily) farmer's market?  


x

RH

Sweet Thoughts for the Day

"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." 

       - Isaiah 53:5, KJV

"But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:"

        - John 1:12, KJV

"For God so love the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
He that believeth on him is not condemned; but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God."

       - John 3:16-18, KJV

x

RH

Lifestyle :: Manicured Pools

Who doesn't love a backyard with a pool?  Pretty, structurally-designed pools are a nice touch to add to any manicured backyard.  Especially in the summer, when the sizzling days fade into cool evenings.  

...just add some twinkle lights and watermelon wedges. 

image by Perry Guillot Inc.

Hamptons Pool of Catie Marron

What is your favorite option: a pool surrounded by fields + flowers?  Or one lined with carefully-trimmed boxwood + pretty wooden fences?  Or perhaps a pool at the end of an allee of trees + rounded bushes?  



x

RH

Paris :: 2013 Haute Couture Shows

I love this part of the year ... Ready-to-Wear is fun, and usually a great way to shop the newest trends and prepare for a change in seasons, but Haute Couture (High Fashion) is amazing.  

These are the party dresses legends are made of.  This is the time to see the sumptuous fabrics, rich furs, and pretty accessories.  Brace yourselves for the beading, the lace, and the chiffon perfection.

Here are some of my picks so far -

 

 

Armani Privé FW'13 Haute Couture

|

Ulyana Sergeenko FW'13 Haute Couture

Zuhair Murad FW'13 Haute Couture (in love with the feathers!!)

Valentino FW'13 Haute Couture

Elie Saab FW'13 Haute Couture

Valentino FW'13 Haute Couture

What constitutes as Haute Couture:
Not just anyone can present a line at the Haute Couture shows in Paris.  The requirements are strict to ensure that the shows are truly the best of the best: 

1. A Fashion House must be a member of the Syndical Chamber for Haute Couture in Paris, which is regulated by the French Department of Industry.
2. Design made-to-order for private clients, with one or more fittings.
3. Have a workshop (atelier) in Paris that employs at least fifteen people full-time.
4. Must have twenty full-time technical people in at least one atelier (workshop).
5. Each season (i.e., twice a year), present a collection to the Paris press, comprising at least thirty-five separate outfits for both daytime wear and evening wear. 

Why is it so expensive, you ask?

Made from scratch for each customer, Haute Couture clothing typically requires three fittings. It usually takes from 100 to 400 hours to make one dress, costing from $26,000 to over $100,000. A tailored suit starts at $16,000, an evening gown at $60,000. (more info)

The man-hours, personal fittings, types of fabrics and trimmings, and the meticulous attention to detail, fit, and cut all contribute to the cost.  Additionally, unlike mass-market products (from, say, Target, or even JCrew) the patterns, seams, colors, and lines must all match exactly in Couture clothing.  There aren't any random pieces of pattern peaking out behind seams, and the buttons, zippers, and other details are all very, very detailed.  This is truly an art form in the most specific sense of the word.  



Everything, down to the smallest detail must be unique and exquisite.  

Hand-painted hair at Alexis Mabille, Paris, FW'13 Haute Couture

x

RH

Sweet Thoughts for the Day

"More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb."  - Psalms 19:10, KJV

[the they mentioned in the above verse is defined as: the law of the Lord and the testimony of the Lord, v. 7, the statutes of the Lord and the commandment of the Lord, v. 8, and the fear of the Lord and the judgements of the Lord, v. 9]

"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies."  - Proverbs 31:10, KJV

x

RH

Celebrate :: 4th of July

Happy 4th of July!   

Hope everyone is having a wonderful day + truly appreciating their independence and freedoms.

click here for recipe

Stay safe!

 
x

RH

Dreaming :: Paris

Have you ever been to Paris?  

I love that city... dreamy old buildings, beautiful architecture, centuries of artwork, fresh crusty bread, strong coffee + chocolate, hours days of window shopping, pretty cobblestone streets, meticulously manicured gardens...

There are so many reasons to visit Paris.  Or revisit Paris.  What are you waiting for?

x

RH

Luxe Playhouses

I was surfing the internet lately and came across some lovely images of houses... but, surprise, surprise they were actually posh playhouses.  Have to say, playhouses are not what they used to be.  Remember when you were really lucky if you had an actual "house" treehouse?  Or when playhouses were tiny little one-room spaces? 

Apparently today's parents have many more options than ever before... electricity, running water, stained glass windows, working doorbells, tv or phone outlets.  Basically everything you need to turn your playhouse into a literal mini house.  Like, the kind you could live in yourself if you were short.

And, since some of them come with such hefty price tags (17k, 42k, etc), you probably should actually live in them yourself.

...a mini house: with bay window, complete porch, shutters... you name it.

...complete with loft, skylight + working doorbell

Exterior by Redwood City Architects & Designers Simpson Design Group Architects

Modern Kids by San Francisco Architects & Designers Aleck Wilson Architects

So, what are your thoughts on these magnificent (and pricey) little digs?  Let me know below!

x

RH