I LOVE NY!!!

So I’m sitting here watching Sex and The City, looking back on how badly I wanted to be Carrie Bradshaw. I was born and raised in Santa Cruz, CA. My parents were not “city folks” and my only experience with “the city” was a 4^th grade field trip to Alcatraz.

LiLo and Paris offered $1Mil to fight for charity

Lindsay Lohan & Paris Hilton have been offered $1 million to fight in a celebrity boxing match.

Hollywood Boxing Federation promoter Damon Feldman said the organization would donate the proceeds of the bout to an anti-drug and alcohol campaign, or charity, if the now non party girls agreed to duke it out in the ring together.

For the full story, visit www.radaronline.com

My Top 5 cooking tips

Anyone that knows me can tell you I love to cook. I am obsessed with cooking shows, cooking magazines, all things food. In my quest for culinary brilliance, I have come across a few tips that have helped me the most.

#1 - Run an onion under cold water prior to cutting. This will keep you from "crying" while your cutting.

#2 - If you have over salted your soup or sauce, add a few pieces of potato. The potato will absorb the excess salt. Check your dish periodically and remove the potatoes when it is seasoned to your taste.

#3 - When sauteing mushrooms, add a little salt. This will pull the moisture out of the mushrooms and they will brown faster.

#4 - When cooking with fresh ginger, freeze the excess. This will not only keep it from spoiling but it will also make it easier to grate.

#5 - Use lavender oil on a burn. Run the burn under cold water for a few minutes and apply neat lavender oil. It will relieve the pain and prevent scarring.

What I'm obsessed with today

Last night I burned myself cooking dinner. After I ran my hand under cold water for a few minutes, I rubbed some lavender oil on the burn. It instantly felt better and, from past experience, I know it's not going to leave a scar. A massage therapist gave me this tip a few years ago and I've kept it in the kitchen ever since. 

Besides the calming effects and relief from burns, there are a number of other health benefits of lavender oil. Check out http://www.netherfield.co.nz/lavender-uses.php for more uses of lavender oil.

Happy Birthday Christian Dior!

Christian Dior 1905-1957

On this day in 1905, a man who would change the world of fashion was born. 

Dior's is first collection debuted in Paris in 1947. He created the extremely popular "New Look", which featured rounded shoulders, a cinched waist, and a very full skirt. 

In 1953, he hired Yves Saint Laurent as an assistant. When Christian died suddenly in Italy in 1957, Yves Saint Laurent became head designer and in his first collection for the Dior house he introduced the iconic trapeze dress.

The succession of designers that have lent their talents to the house of Dior are a testament to the iconic designers prestige in the fashion world.

Christian Dior is truly the gift that keeps on giving. J'adore Dior! 

Are you on the computer all day?

I call it the "computer crunchies". You know, that sound you hear when you are rubbing on all the knots in your neck and shoulders after a long day at the computer. 

Certified massage therapist Amanda Sisson has some advice to relieve, and prevent, the "computer crunchies". She recommends taking a break at least once every hour to get up and stretch. "You need to give your eyes, arms and back a break. Shake your hands out, stretch your legs and walk outside for a bit and get some fresh air." And don't forget to breathe! Taking deep breaths and drinking lots of water will help you to stay loose.

If you are in the Santa Cruz, CA area and would like Amanda to work out your "computer crunchies", email her at amandasisson_mt@yahoo.com or call 831 359 8821. To find a certified massage therapist near you, visit www.ncbtmb.org. 

Jesse James and Kat Von D Engaged!

So Jesse James finally decided to make an honest woman out of Kat Von D and she agreed! He was quoted as saying "

Growing old with her is going to be a f----n' blast!" The wedding is set to take place within the next month outside California.

Grow old together or grow tired of each other. What do you think?

Michelle Obama - A Modern day Jackie O.

At last night's state dinner, Michelle Obama looked stunning in a sweeping red Alexander McQueen gown.

In Chinese culture, the color red symbolizes happiness and prosperity, so it only seems fitting the First Lady chose to wear red for dinner with the Chinese President. Unfortunately, the color choice was not well received and has been heavily criticized.

Political affiliation and opinions aside, what do you think of the First Lady's gown?

Sneak peek...Armani Spring 2011 ad campaign

Rafael Nadal, Armani Jeans

Megan Fox, Armani Underwear

 








When it comes to steamy ad campaigns, Armani is the leader of the pack. His sizzling hot Spring 2011 campaign is no exception. The newest faces of Armani; tennis god Rafael Nadal for Armani Jeans and Megan Fox for Armani Underwear.

Sultry ads are definitely Armani's forte and I say, keep 'em coming! What do you think?

Will you be wearing these this spring?

Fendi "Purple Havanna" Sunglasses, $395

Karl Lagerfeld has done it again. Multicolored sunnies were all over the runway, but Karl took this trend to a whole new level. The metal and tortoise frames paired with the purple gradient lenses are a perfect marriage of vintage style and modern flair.

If you'd like to get your hands on a pair of these beauties, visit www.fendi.com.

What I'm obsessed with today

Brian Atwood "Donna", $720

If I had to pick one shoe designer to wear for the rest of my life it would be Brian Atwood. I would be lying if I said I never thought about sitting at an intersection with a cardboard sign to get the money for his shoes.

Whether you are vertically challenged like me, or not, these 5 inch stunners a must have for every shoe connoisseur. The one inch covered platform at the toe gives you extra height and the ability to wear them all night long. 


To view the entire Brian Atwood collection and find a store near you, visit www.brianatwood.com

What I'm obsessed with today

Balenciaga & Oscar de la Renta

This is a picture of the window at Bergdorf Goodman in NY. The gown is Oscar de la Renta, the leather jacket is Balenciaga. 

In the immortal words of Rachel Zoe, I die.

What do you think? Vote at www.lookville.com or post a comment.

Not a soccer fan?

David Becham for Armani

 I would like to thank the marketing department of Emporio Armani for giving us the gift of David Beckham's and Cristiano Rinaldo's abs. 

Nothing gets me over my case of the Mondays like photos of these two modern day Greek gods. These footballers have definitely peaked my interest in the worlds most popular sport.

Before this ad campaign was launched, I couldn't have been less interested in soccer. Now, I find myself watching futbol espanol on ESPN hoping one of these guys will rip off his shirt. If this sport wanted to be even more popular, the league would enforce a shorts only policy!

Cristiano Ronaldo for Armani

What I'm obsessed with today

Scanty "Big Eyes" Pj's, $102

If you are like me, you are one of the lucky ones who doesn't have to go to work today. And for that very reason, I decided today is pajama day. And there are no better Pj's to spend a day in than Scanty. 

They are super cute and so comfy! They come in a variety of styles and prints, so whether you are a boxer short or nightgown kind of girl, there is something for you. These are definitely pajamas I'm not embarrassed to go out and get the newspaper in!

If you'd like to get a pair of these little cuties, check out www.sleepyheads.com

Good Sunday morning!

Well I decided to step away from my computer and hit the road for a fun filled weekend of golf!!!

Yesterday was Eagle Ridge Golf Club in Gilroy, CA. Today, off to Monterey to play Laguna Seca Golf Ranch.

I'll be posting pics and reviews later this evening so check back!

What I'm obsessed with today

Mila Kunis and esthetician Scott Vincent Borba

What do you do when you are a Hollywood starlet preparing for the Golden Globes? You get a $7000 facial, of course! 

Mila Kunis, who has been nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in "Black Swan", visited skin guru Scott Vincent-Borba for the HD Diamond and Ruby peel. This treatment is not yet available to the public, another perk of being an A-List celeb. 

The treatment actually uses diamonds and rubies. The rubies act as the antioxidant, the diamonds provide a radiant finish. But that's not it, the final step is a paraffin silk fiber facial. And it's not just for her face, he also treats her neck, décolleté, arms, and the back of her hands. Basically, any skin that will be showing is treated.

So this Sunday, when you are watching the Golden Globes, be sure to take a good look at Mila and decide for yourself if the $7000 treatment was worth it. 

For more information on Scott and his products, visit www.borba.com

 

Newest member of the Zodiac - Ophiuchus

13th Zodiac sign, Ophiuchus,  Nov. 29-Dec. 17

Wow. Where do I start? First, the correct pronunciation is OFF-ee-YOO-kuss, and apparently, we have all been reading the wrong horoscope for the last 2000 years. The Babylonian's only wanted 12 signs in a year, and judging from the picture I can see why.

Which leads to my next point. How happy am I that I wasn't born between Nov. 29th and Dec. 17th?! I wouldn't be too comfortable being represented by a clothing optional serpent tamer (although some would say that's pretty accurate). Those less shallow than me will be thrilled to find their new sign represents healing, enlightenment, medicine and higher education. It has also been associated with black holes, but lets not dwell on the negative.

For those of you who are interested in knowing which horoscope to read from now on, I have found the updated dates of the astrological signs.

Capricorn: Jan. 20-Feb. 16
Aquarius: Feb. 16-March 11
Pisces: March 11-April 18
Aries: April 18-May 13
Taurus: May 13-June 21
Gemini: June 21-July 20
Cancer: July 20-Aug. 10
Leo: Aug. 10-Sept. 16
Virgo: Sept. 16-Oct. 30
Libra: Oct. 30-Nov. 23
Scorpio: Nov. 23-29
Ophiuchus: Nov. 29-Dec. 17

Sagittarius: Dec. 17-Jan. 20

This whole thing begs the question, where would you be if you had been reading the right horoscope all along? My answer, in the same place you are now, we are all exactly where we are supposed to be.

What I'm obsessed with today

DeLonghi EC702 Espresso Maker

Jane Iredale Eye Highlighter Pencil, $15

If your morning has been anything like mine, these 2 things will be your saving grace. Nothing gets me moving like a cup of espresso. I love my espresso machine! It saves me time and money, two things I never seem to have enough of! 

Coffee in hand I head upstairs to do my make up. I put a little white highlighter on my waterline to brighten up my eyes and make it appear as though I'm actually awake! 

Check out the "Where to Buy" page for info on these and all the other products mentioned in this blog.

What I'm obsessed with today

Today is one of those days where I want to look cute but I don't have the energy to put together a whole look. 

I love the Juicy Couture Long Smocked Terry Dress ($178, www.shopbop.com). I can throw it on with a pair of sandals, pull my hair into a ponytail, throw on some hoop earrings and I'm out the door. I grab a Juicy Terry Hoodie in case it get's chilly and I'm ready to go. And it's so comfortable, I feel like I'm in my pajamas all day!

I love this for travel too. You can wear it on the plane, to the beach or pair it up with some metallic sandals and delicate jewelry and you're ready for a night out. 

Kate Hudson is pregnant!

Kate Hudson announced she is 14 weeks pregnant with boyfriend Matthew Bellamy's baby. Kate, 31, and the Muse frontman, 32, have been a couple for about 9 months.

A source tells Us Weekly reports: "It was not planned, but they are excited and embracing it."

For the full story go to www.usmagazine.com

Beckham's are expecting baby no. 4!

David and Victoria Beckham will be welcoming baby no. 4 this summer. 

The couple, parents to Brooklyn, 11, Romeo, 8, and Cruz, 5 1/2, do not yet know if they will be adding a boy or girl to their growing brood. Either way, that baby will be gorgeous! 

No possible baby names yet, any ideas?

Have you seen this kid?!!!

This is Jason McCabe,12 yr old basketball phenom on the Ellen Show this morning.

Question of the day

What is this world coming to?! How did that shooting even happen?!

AZ Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords

There is not one single thing about this situation that doesn't infuriate me. I am disgusted at this lunatic's ability to purchase a firearm, I am confused as to why there was no security at a public political meet and greet and I am completely disheartened by the reputable journalism outlets reporting AZ Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords dead. Tonight, I am lighting a candle and saying a prayer for all those injured and killed in this needless and inexplicable violence. My heart goes out to all the families who lost a loved one today, especially the family of 9-year-old Christina Taylor Green. She had recently been elected to student council so her neighbor invited her to attend because she thought she would enjoy it. This little girl's family will never see her play another baseball game or attend another ballet recital again.

I don't want to get into the political climate that instigated this horrific event, or the indisputable fact that "gun control" is all great in theory but is clearly failing in practice.


Please post your thoughts here or to my Facebook page or tweet me @askmegd. I would really like to hear your thoughts and opinions.

Real Housewife of Beverly Hills Camille Grammer, misrepresented or just misunderstood?

Whether you are Team Camille or Team Everyone Else, you have to admit, Camille Grammer is good TV. On screen and off, there is no shortage of drama. There is so much to talk about... 

On the very first episode of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Camille Grammer openly discusses using a surrogate for each of her 2 children. My first thought, echoed by a few of the other wives, was that she must not have wanted to lose her figure. I immediately felt bad for jumping to conclusions and decided she must have some sort of medical issue. It wasn't addressed on the show so I decided to find out. Apparently, Camille suffers from IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), so she and Kelsey chose to use a surrogate. Okay...

Every episode, I think to myself "This has to be the one where she redeems herself", and every episode to date has not been that one. Between her antics with the ladies, Nick (don't even get me started on him) and her commentary during the show, she isn't making it very easy to find her likable. She must have an extra self-esteem gene. What she blames on editing I see as a smug, vain, pseudo intellectual, egomaniac, but I digress. I just don't see any amount of editing that could portray her in this light without the tiniest bit of truth.


On her behalf, she has obviously had challenges in her marriage that we clearly do not know. She has stated she has had difficulty with relationships with women, her BFF D.D. has backed up her claim, blaming it on "female jealousy". And, as I stated earlier, she has IBS. I'm sure all these things have had an affect on her and shaped the woman she is today. That being said, that still doesn't excuse the behavior, and certainly doesn't change the fact that she has dethroned Danielle Staub as the most hated housewife to date. 


I wish her the best, but (in her own words), I am "cautiously optimistic".

Question of the day

I was pleasantly surprised last night when I saw Khloe K. rocking a new strawberry blonde do. Apparently, she is on her way to red, more color processing today. 

I'm glad to see her trying to set herself apart from all her raven haired sisters. Kim went blonde for a hot minute and I was glad to see her go back to dark. I think this is a good look for Khloe. I'm looking forward to seeing her when the transformation is complete.

What do you think about Khloe's new look? Post your comments here, on my FB page or tweet me @askmegd.com

Tone it and tan it!

If you are like so many people out there, losing weight is your #1 New Year's resolution. Try these tips to keep you on track.

Question of the day

Help!!! I'm freaking out!!! I have an event this weekend, I bought a dress a couple of weeks ago and I can't find any shoes! What should I do?!

Perk up your post holiday hair

The holidays can be stressful, especially on your hair. With all the blow drying, flat ironing, hot rollers and styling products, your hair can end up dry and lacking shine. Just like your skin, your hair needs to be cleansed, exfoliated and moisturized.