This post is part of a monthly series entitled The M.O.M (Month of Mom) Series.
Okay, we all know I have a problem when it comes to wine. I can’t get enough of it. Growing up near the vineyards of Sonoma County, I think that my body needs wine – it’s in my blood. I plan many of my days around wine and many of my vacations around where I can find and experience new varietals, new blends. Wine has become something of a hobby (some may call it an obsession) for my husband and I. We are passionate about learning when it comes to all things wine. Truly understanding the process, the time and the art that goes into wine making makes you appreciate wines that much more. And while our collection of wine is a little absurd, we enjoy sharing our finds with friends, because good friends+good wine=good times. Enter SeaLegs Wine Bar.
When I found out about a new wine bar opening only miles from my house I was more than giddy…I was down-right anxious. I would stop by almost weekly, put my face up to the glass doors and pound with my fists while repeating, “open, open, open.” Well, after passing inspections and putting on all the final touches, SeaLegs Wine Bar is set to open on May 21st and you can bet that I’ll be there, glass in hand. I have had the unique opportunity of touring the venue in its early construction or ‘dream phase’ and now to see the dream come to fruition is amazing. The place is beyond beautiful and while elegant, sleek and trendy, it still somehow elicits that relaxed HB vibe that us Surf City locals treasure.
The beachside wine bar (located at 21022 Beach Blvd.) will house a robust wine cellar featuring an international selection of boutique wine and champagnes, as well as craft beers on draft with plenty more to choose from by the bottle. SeaLegs will also feature a menu of California-style tapas, seasonal fresh rotating dinner specials, and decadent deserts to finish off the night. At SeaLegs, owners Alicia Whitney, Jennifer Dubourdieu and Lisa Nonemaker plan on transporting guests to a time when the conversation and laughter would flow as liberally as the wine, bringing people together for unforgettable memories and good times by the beach.
M.O.M SERIES GIVEAWAY:Comment on this post by sharing your favorite wine or a favorite wine quote. One lucky winner will be selected at random to receive a $50 gift certificate to SeaLegs Wine Bar. Comment by May 22nd. Winner will be contacted via email. Good luck.
This post is part of a monthly series entitled The M.O.M (Month of Mom) Series.
I very rarely take time to really do my hair. I have pretty thick hair and it just seems to take forever to go through the entire process to make my mane look presentable. When it comes to my preferred hair style, it really comes down to what takes less time to do. Most days I wash, dry the front a bit and throw my hair back in a messy bun (I may add a cute clip if I have a meeting or special event). It just always seems like I am pressed for time to get out the door to work. When I don’t have work or an event to attend, I usually skip blowdrying all together and go al natural.
Blowdrying, straightening or adding a little curl is more of a luxury. When I have the house to myself or Savannah takes a long nap, I will sometimes put in the extra effort and it can often be a zen-like experience…maybe it has to do with the fact that I am not rushed and actually have a little me time. But still, if I could create one Jetson-like technology in my house, it would be a walk-through capsule that automatically turns blah into ta-da when it comes to my hair. Enter SAS.
A few weeks ago I went to check out this new shampoo and style bar located on the posh 17th strip in Costa Mesa. There is nothing not to like about SAS. Here are the things that stood out to me:
* Amazing decor – I could Pin everything from the lighting to tile colors * Super friendly and talented staff * Great products – try the DeepQuench moisture mask from ColorProof! * Handsome bar help (okay so he may be the founder, but Mike Ruggieri can also make up a mean cocktail) * Scalp massage – only complaint here is that I think I may have fallen asleep and drooled a little bit which is so not a good look * Knowledgeable and tapped-in owner – Monica Ruggieri knows what us ladies want and she will make sure we get exactly that
SAS is the perfect place to hit up if you have a special occasion and want a unique style. Or maybe you just want to take a break from the norm and have someone else tame your locks. What about a girls night out? Get the ladies together and head over to SAS for some pampering and libations. Have a little lady who’s into her American Girl doll? SAS does American Girl parties. Have your corporate or family photos coming up? Get SASed first. SAS can work with you to make any special event a reality, just give them a shout at 949.646.6345.
Special offer for OC Family fans, visit SAS and mention OCFAMILY12 and get $5 off any service on top of any other promotions running.
M.O.M SERIES GIVEAWAY:Comment on this post as to why you deserve to be SASed and you could win an Above & Beyond pampering treatment from SAS (a $45 value). Comment by May 14th. Winner will be selected by random and contacted via email. Good luck.
View video of my SASification:
SAS is located at 270 E. 17th Street in Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Visit www.sasmeup.com for their complete menu of services.
Like SAS on Facebook at facebook.com/SASmeup Phone: 949.646.6345
I got a not-so-comforting call today from my dermatologist. I listened, but really only retained one word: cancer.
I don’t normally go to see a dermatologist, but when I run I sometimes get this rash on my leg, so I thought I would make an appointment to see if she could prescribe me some type of ointment or cleansing cream. While I was there, the doctor asked me when I had my last full-body skin check. Since I don’t see a regular dermatologist, I could not ever recall having one. This is when she discovered a small mole on my lower calf that she did not like. I wasn’t a big fan of the mole either, but that was more for cosmetic reasons. She did a biopsy on the spot and told me she would call with the results. I really thought nothing more of it. Then, I got the call. It was melanoma. “Mela-what?” I asked. I mean I knew what it was, but I was shocked. That little-bity freckle-like mole could be cancerous? My mom had to have a chunk cut out of her arm a while back due to melanoma. My older brother too had melanoma on his leg. They are both doing fine and caught the melanoma early.
I have scheduled the next dreaded appointment to get a chunk cut out of my lower leg. I really like my legs the way they are and could do without a chuck missing, I mean why couldn’t this have been found on my love-handle region?? But according to the doctor I was referred to, I have no reason to worry (easier said than done in this case) and will only need the one small incision around the original mole.
I write this cause if I had not gone in for the little rash, I would have never probably gone in and the melanoma would have been at a worse stage. I am very hopeful everything will be okay. I have to be. I am so grateful that I caught it before it went deeper. So please, if you do not get regular skin checks, please schedule one. It is better to be proactive in this situation. Oh, and with summer coming, overdose on the sunscreen!
All too often my husband accuses me of not effectively communicating myself or not honestly expressing my desires. So, I decided to write this post for all the significant others out there. While many of these often-used female phrases may cause frustration, just accept them for what they’re worth and move on…we will all be much happier.
Common Female Rebuttals And What They Mean
Fine: This is what we women say to end an argument. This proves we are right and we just really want you to be quiet.
Five minutes: If I am still getting dressed or doing my hair/makeup, this means about a 1/2 hour. Five minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five minutes to watch the game before taking out the trash or doing other chores around the house.
Nothing: This is the calm before the storm. “Nothing” definitely means “something” so be on your toes. Arguments that start with “nothing” usually end in “fine.”
Go ahead: This is more of a dare, not really permission. There are consequences.
Loud sigh: While not actually a word, this non-verbal expression is all too often misunderstood. A sigh means I am frustrated at why we are arguing over “nothing.”
That’s okay: This is about the most dangerous of statements a woman can make to a man. “That’s okay” means that I want you to think long and hard before deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.
I don’t care: Similar to the above, if you think “I don’t care” really means “I don’t care” you have a lot of hard learning ahead. “I don’t care” means if you don’t choose what I want we are both going to be miserable.
It only cost like $20: Give or take $100. “Like” replaces “not-even-close”, but still, don’t question my financial decisions.
Thanks: Don’t read into it. Just accept it and say you’re welcome.
I know there are plenty more, but hopefully these will help out some of the men out there. I apologize ahead of time and will just say this…”in time, you will get it and be better for it. Good luck my friends.”
Upon recently returning from a trip to Charleston, South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia, I felt compelled to write a post about the warmth and accepting nature that is southern hospitality. When I landed and set foot in Charleston, I was greeted by my shuttle driver, Matthew, who instead of taking me directly to my hotel off King Street, gave me a tour of downtown Charleston, shared with me the history of several points of interest and provided suggestions for which restaurants to try. He dropped me off and left me with a, “y’all have fun now here in Charleston mam.” While I could have done without the “mam” – made me feel a little older than I would like – I couldn’t help but think…would this happen in Orange County or Los Angeles? I think not. The people my mom and I met at the local watering holes were more than wanting to engage in conversation with a couple visitors from California. You could just tell that there was no judgement, just genuine friendliness for a fellow neighbor – even if separated by thousands of miles. To be surrounded by smiles, calm mannerisms and a real sense of welcoming was a wonderful prescription for the stress and rushed pace of life I have become used to. Now, while it would take me a while to get used to their dietary habits – not so fond of all the fried chicken and hushpuppies – I could definitely do a vacation home in Charleston. Nashville too for that matter.
Tim and I got engaged in Nashville and on our first night in town we were looking for a great place to hear some live music. We started talking to a group of guys on the street and one of the guys told his friends that he would meet them later and proceeded to walk with us for more than a few blocks to a bar with live music that he recommended – which turned out to be an amazing night. That so would not happen here. People here are too concerned with their lives and their schedule to do something like this for a stranger. I think I am going to try to make it a point that if I see people who look like they may be from out of town, to stop and ask them if they need directions somewhere or may be looking for a nice restaurant.
Anyway, try to show a little southern hospitality yourself and see if it pays off. You know what they say, “What goes around, comes around…y’all.”
Sweet tea. I wouldn’t drink it all day long, but one seriously cold glass can transport you to the south. Basically, brew your favorite tea and add some serious sugar (while warm). Then put it in the fridge…get it nice and chilled and then pour a glass over ice…add a mint leaf just cause.
Dinner & A Cemetery - a great tour around a famous cemetery at night (spooky) complete with traditional southern cookin’. If you ever plan a trip to Savannah, GA…this is a must. Find out more.
I confess. I like wine. I like it a lot. I am a pretty high-stress person and I take on way too many activities and projects (just ask my husband). With juggling a full-time job, two board commitments, being part of numerous volunteer committees and trying to keep my home life in check…things can get crazy. How do I relax? How do I handle the curve balls life throws at me? I drink. That sounds bad. What I meant to say is that I find repose in fine wine.
There was a reason Jesus turned water into wine. It’s amazing. There is so much diversity in wine. From a light Savignon Blanc to a deep and robust Cabernet, everyone has their favorite. Wine people get it. When you meet someone who has the same love for wine, you can talk for hours and learn so much from one another. And, it is so true, one person’s tastes can be completely different from another and that is okay. One of my favorite whites (and I am not a big fan of white wines) is Barefoot’s Pinot Grigio at just about $5 a bottle. But then, there a few BIG reds I like — Rubicon Cask Cab ($60) and Silver Oak Cabernet Savignon ($80) and Opolo Zinfandel (great buy at like $30/bottle).
Trader Joe’s carries some fun wines. Love BevMo and CostPlus has some gems too. But, if you love good wine, there are some great wine shops in Orange County you should check out.
And here’s the kicker…I am helping to plan a HUGE wine tasting event taking place in the OC on Feb. 11, 2012. Wine Knot 2012 at the Huntington Harbour Yacht Club will feature eight (8) wine partners from Sonoma Valley to Paso Robles. Guests who purchase a passport to tasting will get three (3) complimentary pours from each of the partners, get to enjoy live music, dine on decadent foods and get to bid on some amazing silent auction items. Why not celebrate Valentine’s Day early this year…I mean nothing says love like PLENTY of wine and great chocolate (which there will be both of at Wine Knot).
Win a pair of passports to Wine Knot by commenting below and telling me your favorite wines. One lucky winner will be selected at random and contacted by Feb. 7th should they be the winner. Good luck and happy wining to all.
Should you wish to purchase passports to tasting for Wine Knot 2012, mention “OC Family” and get $5 off the passport price.
This is an actual conversation I had with my 3-year-old daughter. And if it makes a difference and any of Santa’s elves are reading this blog post…I have been a very, very good girl.
Savannah: “There are lots of Santas huh mommy?” Me: “What do you mean Savvy?” Savannah: “I have sat on lots of Santa laps.” Me: “Oh, those are not the real Santa, they are his helpers. They listen to your Christmas wishes and report back to the big man himself.” Savannah: “Why is Santa so big?” Me: “He eats too many cookies.” Savannah: “I like cookies.” Me: “Cookies are good.” Savannah: “Will Santa bring me presents?” Me: “If you are a good girl and are super nice to your mommy and daddy and all your family and friends.” Savannah: “I am a good girl.” Me: “I know and Santa knows this too.” Savannah: “How does he know?” Me: “He is watching you all the time.” Savannah: (with a concerned look ) “Why? Even when I go potty?” Me: (laughing) “Maybe not when you go potty, even Santa has respect for privacy.” Savannah: “What’s privacy?” Me: “What mommy wants sometimes.” Savannah: “Maybe Santa will bring you some privacy mommy…but you need to be a good girl.”
* Congratulations to Vicki D. — the winner of the OC Fair New Year’s Eve Block Party tickets.
New Years is a little different with kids. Wait, it’s a lot different.
I’ve never been a huge fan of New Years just cause it all seems a little over-rated to me. To go out to a restaurant, club or nice bar on New Years, you can expect to fork over a good portion on your paycheck, which is just ridiculous. Then, on top of paying like $20 for one drink, you have to hold onto that drink with extreme caution cause most likely you are skin-to-skin with hundreds of others you don’t know trying to get to the bar to get a drink. And don’t event try to hold a conversation with someone, just smile and nod. Sounds like fun, right? Usually service tends to be crappy and you are still expected to leave a nice tip. I guess if I was single and sans child, I may be tempted, but I am not 21 anymore and I am okay with that.
My ideal New Years is getting a group of friends together who also have kids and doing a nice dinner, sipping on some nice wine and ringing in the New Year on East Coast time (I can hardly stay up till midnight anymore) while rocking a little Guitar Hero or Wii dance revolution. Crazy huh?
But, there are also events like the OC Fair’s New Year’s Eve Block Party which sounds like a good time for just about anybody. Live music, foodtrucks, carnival rides, fireworks and new this year — casino games. I am giving away two tickets to the Block Party, so comment on this post by telling me why you want to ring in 2012 at the OC Fairgrounds and I will select a winner at random. Winner to be selected and contacted on Dec. 19th! Good Luck.
Here are all the details… When: Dec. 31, 2011 from 7:30 pm to 1:30 am. Where: The OC Fairgrounds Entertainment: Rio–a Tribute to Duran Duran; Joshua Tree — A tribute to U2; Britain’s Finest — The Complete Beatles Experience; The Cured; Flashback Heart Attack — Ultimate New Wave ’80s Show; The Who Revue, and more! Food Trucks: Flying Pig Truck; Crepes Bonaparte; Piaggio On Wheels; Brats Berlin; Chomp Chomp Nation; The Burnt Truck; The Grilled Cheese Truck and more.
General admission is $40, plus parking will be $10.
To order tickets go to OCFair.com.
Get the entire scoop by visiting NYE Block Party.
So what are your plans for New Years? Please share.
I don’t want to come off as a scrooge, but the holiday season has got to be the most stressful time of year. At work, every client piles on the work in the month of December (gotta spend the cash before year-end). Outside work, every organization I am involved with has their own holiday party. My friends all have their own holiday parties. I have my work holiday party and Tim has more than a few work parties. Then I have to try to keep track of all the various holiday events at Savannah’s school. I set up a Google calendar for Tim and I to see what our month of December looks like and it is not pretty. For the next three weeks we pretty much have a holiday party every night, often doubling up on the weekends. Oh, and in between all that, I have to somehow find time to shop for those on my list. I could seriously employ one of Santa’s elves right about now.
It seems like it is like this every year. I really do enjoy the sights and sounds of the holidays, but I can hardly take them in cause I am so rushed to just check things/events off the list. So I am trying to do something new this year, something that is very hard for me to do…I am trying to not be perfect. I am trying to not be uber-creative when it comes to gifts. I am trying to make things more simple and reflect on what is really important…enjoying just being in the moment and celebrating all that I am blessed with. Oh, and I am doing much more online shopping cause this way I avoid parking lot fights and in-store squabbles (it got ugly last year people…really ugly).
So, if you’re like me and may get a bit stressed this time of year, here are some tips I would like to share that may make for a little more merriment this holiday.
1. Be realistic…you can’t make it to every party. Choose the ones you know will be more fun and have a good excuse for not being able to make the others (maybe say you have a charity toy drive you’re attending). 2. When it comes to gifts you need to get, make a list so you don’t over do it. Start with the family members and friends you really like at the top and then work your way down the list. If you forget someone, it’s okay, just make a bunch of hand-made IOU cards that you can hand out. 3. You should always give a gift to the host/hostess of parties you attend. A bottle of wine is always welcome and this gift serves two purposes…you provided a gift and then you can proceed to drink your gift. 4. A nice peppermint mocha or egg nog latte from Starbucks can help put you in a better shopping mood. Add a shot or two of brandy and this can really spruce things up. 5. Get a custom stamp that reads “Right Back at Ya, Love the (your last name here)”. When you get a holiday card from someone you did not send a card to, stamp their card and send it on back to them. 6. Keep a bunch of Chuck E Cheese tokens or foreign coins (you know the ones you have had forever and are never going to exchange) in your purse so that you can drop them in the can for the Salvation Army. 7. Take a night time walk to enjoy the holiday lights. If you happen to see one of those slow-moving lit-up wired reindeer, flip it on its back…it looks like a dead cockroach…it’s hilarious.
Okay, I hope these tips help put a little cheer in your holidays…a little jingle in your step. What are your tips for reducing holiday stress?
*full disclaimer: besides numbers 3 and 4 above, I have personally not attempted any of the other listed tips above.
I admit that since having Savannah, Halloween has become a bit more G rated. Bye bye crazy parties, hello old-school trick-or-treating. Long gone are the days of bobbing for beers, back are the days of carving pumpkins and and sorting through the 3-Muscateers.
Back in the day, sexy was the only way. If you were being a witch for Halloween, it wasn’t a wicked witch complete with warts and chin hair, it was a cleavage-bearing naughty witch. A nurse didn’t mean full-body scrubs with your hair pulled back, but more something to the tune of short white skirt, bare mid-drift and a tight tube top adorned with a red cross. Then there was the naughty devil, the very mean police officer, the oh-so-seductive angel and the list goes on, and on, and on. And it seems like the naughty versions of your everyday costumes have become even more popular. Visit Party City online and you don’t even have to navigate through the mix of tame costumes anymore, but can go directly to the Sexy Costumes section.
When I had Savannah, I packed away the naughty and pulled out the nice. I’ve been a cowgirl in full overalls and the plaid shirt (no skin showing), Barbie (and this was really more of a sweat suit with my hair in a ponytail) and this year Savannah wants me to be Sebastian from The Little Mermaid. Sebastian. Is there any way I could naughtify Sebastian? Just seems wrong.
I do have a couple more adult-friendly parties this Halloween weekend and I am working on something a bit on the sexy side, but still suitable for a family-friendly gathering. I am creating my own costume, a “little” number that expresses my love of fine wine. Pictures to come.
So, what are your costume plans? Are any moms out there putting the “sexy” in Halloween??
The beachside wine bar (located at 21022 Beach Blvd.) will house a robust wine cellar featuring an international selection of boutique wine and champagnes, as well as craft beers on draft with plenty more to choose from by the bottle. SeaLegs will also feature a menu of California-style tapas, seasonal fresh rotating dinner specials, and decadent deserts to finish off the night. At SeaLegs, owners Alicia Whitney, Jennifer Dubourdieu and Lisa Nonemaker plan on transporting guests to a time when the conversation and laughter would flow as liberally as the wine, bringing people together for unforgettable memories and good times by the beach.
