city escape.

It's funny, you would think that living in a big city would make you want to escape it for a calmer more serene spot on the weekends, but that hasn't quite happened for us.  We love being in the hustle and bustle in our daily lives and when it comes to the weekends, we try to stay right here.  And if we happen to travel somewhere on vacation, it seems that we are pulled in the direction of yet another city.  I mean, don't get me wrong, we do love laying by the pool with a book in hand like anyone else, but mostly when we talk about our dream vacations it involves traveling to a city.  Hello, Sydney, London, Paris...I'm looking at you!  What about you?  Do your vacation dreams consist of laying low on an exotic beach, or do they look more like restaurant hopping in the concrete jungle?

{paris}

wine tasting.

I'm finally getting around to sharing some pics from the wine tasting tour that I mentioned here.  We had such a wonderful time and I can't say enough great things about the last stop at Ram's Gate.  None of us had ever been to the property before, and I must say it was amazing.  As you walk in, it's a giant indoor-outdoor wine tasting area.  Hard to even describe in words, but just think open space, old barn wood, and modern touches throughout.  My jaw was pretty much on the floor the entire time.  Our friend had also arranged for a picnic before we arrived.  So once we got there, each couple was handed a picnic basket complete with a blanket, tons of yummy food, and a bottle of wine.  Yep, we will definitely be coming back here soon.

{iphone pics by me, my husband, our friends jason + lisa}

new zealand.

This weekend we met up with friends at the Ferry Building.  I truly love the hustle and bustle of that place on the weekends...so filled with energy.  After eating a quick bite, we headed down to this amazing New Zealand pop-up restaurant, Waiheke Island Yacht Club.  When G and I went on our honeymoon to New Zealand, we visited Waiheke Island with these same friends!  So it was a treat to hang out at the San Francisco "version" with them.  Here are a few photos from our visit to the island three years ago.  Waiheke is just a short ferry ride from Auckland and it is absolutely breathtaking.  I'm craving a trip back.

{my photos}

vacation style.

So, it's not very often that I find myself trying to put together outfits for warmer weather.  But when I do, it's pretty fun.  Forgoing the daily layering that I find myself doing here in the city, is definitely a welcome departure.  Below are a few outfits that I wore during our time in the desert.  I ordered this plain black dress right before our trip and I'm so happy I did.  It's simple jersey, so it can easily be described as dressed down, but the scoop neckline and low back definitely gives it an edge...soooo me!  Oh and as you can see, I'm obsessed with these floral pants.  Go get yourself a pair stat.

{black dress}, {light pink dress}, {floral pants}, {tie dye dress is old Anthro}

palm springs.

hello, hello!  Well my husband and I are back after an amazing week long vacation in Palm Springs (ohhh and a much needed stop to squeeze my nephews and niece).  We had a wonderful time staying at the Ace (I think they may have the most comfortable bed we've ever slept in) and eating our way through the town.  I had a lot of friends email me while we were away asking me about our fave spots in the desert, so I thought I'd put together a little guide for you.  Just a few hotels that we love and some yummy joints we frequent while there on vacation.  Enjoy!

To stay:

Ace Hotel: As I said, quite possibly the most comfy beds we've ever stayed in.  It's definitely got a hipster vibe to it, so it's not for everyone, but the rooms are awesome and usually pretty reasonable rates.

The Parker: This is by far my favorite hotel. The gorgeous grounds (with endless paths), make you want to just wander around all afternoon. And of course the hotel decor (designed by one of my faves, Jonathan Adler) is amazing! Sometimes you can find online deals, but you really have to search.

Korakia: This is still on our list of hotels to stay at. Everyone I know who has stayed there, can't stop talking about how wonderful it is.

To eat:

Cheeky's: Love this place for breakfast or brunch.

Mr Parker's at The Parker: Soooooo good for dinner. And shhhhhh, we once saw Drew Barrymore there.

Citron at Viceroy: We've been here for dinner and loved it.

Birba: Awesome drinks and the most delicious pizza.

{photo from my instagram}