Fashion, Travel, What to Bring, What to do/eat

Sedona International Film Festival: Where Movies Rock

Aside from the small town charm, and breathtaking sights and vistas, Sedona, Arizona is home to one very special pastime, the Sedona International Film Festival. I had the pleasure of attending the 21st annual fest last weekend and boy was it a treat! Featuring over 160 narrative films, documentaries, and shorts, there is something for everyone during this nine-day-long event. Whether you set out to educate yourself on new topics, or you want to sit back, relax, and chow down on some popcorn during a comedy, there is a movie for you! While many of this year’s selections have been acclaimed both nationally and internationally, below are a couple of my favorites.     The lovely narrative “Belle and Sebastian” took place in France during the Second World War and starred a young boy and a dog. While local farmers are determined to find and hunt the “beast,” aka Belle the Great Pyreneese – who they are convinced has been killing their sheep, Sebastian befriends her. The boy and dog not only go on providing comfort and company for each other, but end up playing a pivotal role in the lives of all those they cross paths with. If you’re […]

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Fashion, Style Watch

Incorporate Red Carpet looks into your Everyday Wear

Just as all the red carpet talk winds down, here I am bringing it up again! But before I begin, if you haven’t read my 2015 Oscars Best Dressed commentary, head on over there so that everything below will make sense. While it is not realistic for many of us to own a Versace or Ralph & Russo gown, never mind have an occasion to wear such an extravagant piece, it doesn’t mean we cannot incorporate some of the key features and styles into our everyday garb.   Steamy slits and lace are in and Rosamund Pike can justify this. Even if you do not have a formal occasion on your calendar as of yet, it is worth purchasing this hot number for only $57 (extra 15% off with coupon code below!). This fitted dress is comprised of two layers – one that is short and one lace maxi overlay. Although the neckline is modest, the thigh-high slit sure isn’t! Pair this beauty with some nude pump and stun every time you wear it.   Pale pink is becoming a staple and it is not just for spring anymore. From pink sequined leggings, to pink jackets, to pink dresses, it […]

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Authentic Mexican Cheese Dip
Food, Recipes

Authentic Mexican Cheese Dip

If you’re a lover of Mexican Cuisine, then this dish is for you! Queso fundido, an authentic Mexican “antojito” or snack, is a delectable and gooey baked concoction of rich Mexican cheeses. Delicious with chips and guacamole or wrapped up in corn tortillas, once you try this dip, you’ll never be satisfied with “Tex-Mex” dipping cheese again.   Here is what you’ll need to whip up some queso fundido:     8 oz bag shredded Monterey Jack cheese 10 oz Queso Fresco 1 package corn tortillas 1 cup mushrooms 1 small yellow onion 1 poblano pepper 1/8 cup corn or vegetable oil Oven proof ramekins (I used these by Le Creuset) 1 sausage link (vegan sausage or chorizo) – optional   Step one: Preheat oven to broil. Dice onion, and sausage and slice mushrooms. Step two: Broil poblano pepper for 15-20 minutes until skin begins to shrivel and brown. Shred Queso Fresco while pepper cooks. Step three: Once cool enough to touch, dice poblano pepper and set aside.     Step four: Cover bottom of frying pan with thin layer of oil and add onions. Cook over medium-high heat about 4 minutes until they begin to brown. Step five: Add […]

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Beauty, Etcetera, Fashion, Wish List Wednesday

Wishlist Wednesday: Makeup Organizer

I once attended a standup show at the Comedy Cellar in NYC, (a “hang out” for comedians to practice their new lines – you never know who will show up but Aziz Ansari made an appearance when we were there!), and one of the comedians based his entire routine on makeup application. Ever since then, I think about it and laugh every time I “paint my face.” As he put it, makeup application is like a never ending art project! You get so far one day, then you take it off and start from a clean canvas/face the next. Well, along with any art project comes supplies! From brushes, to color pallets, to pencils, to “paint,” every artist needs an organized workspace. Meet the CosmoCube™! Crafted out of high quality crystal acrylic, who knew clear could be so cool?!   The CosmoCube Luxury Edition™ is one word: dreamy. If you have the counter space for it, this amazing product has room for all of your cosmetics and some. Featuring a lipstick compartment that will fit up to 24 tubes of lipstick, brush holders, and four interchangeable drawers, never again will you have to resort to your second favorite cheek color […]

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Fashion, Outfit of the Day

Midi Skirt for the Petite Woman

After swooning over all of the stars’ special occasion gowns, last night during the Oscar’s, I decided it was finally time to break out my first midi dress. In the past I would avoid this length skirt at all costs, but with full skirts of all lengths making a comeback, I decided to give it a try.     If you are on the petite side, midi skirts can be a little bit tricky. We are already blessed with short legs, so we tend to compensate by wearing garments that give off an elongated appearance (jumpsuits, high-waisted pants, “sky high” high heels, etc.). That is why it is very important to make sure your midi skirt hits at mid-calf…even if it means a trip to the tailor! Before styling the dress below, I had it shortened about 3.5 inches. Once you’ve arrived at the appropriate length, try pairing your midi with nude shoes – they do a great job lengthening your legs.   I highly recommend a fitted top when styling a full midi skirt. That is why I was drawn to the “Lead a Charmed Life Midi Dress.” Featuring a fitted bodice, spaghetti straps, and open back design, feel […]

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