What's In My Bag

I've been asked to share what is in my bag and it is rather fortuitous that I just happened to clean out my kitchen sink of a bag on Monday.  Otherwise, I might have been more than a little embarrassed.

What stands out the most is just how many little bags I have within a bag.  When you carry around a large purse, nothing is worse than digging for something when you need it quick, fast and in a hurry.  I've got a makeup bag, a toiletries bag to conceal my lady business, a pencil case that holds mints, my inhaler and a rollerball perfume and my kitty cat coin purse.

I also have a glass Aquasana water bottle.  I've got the typical habit of not drinking water all day and this little bottle keeps me hydrated.  It also occasionally holds my juiced veggies for the day and the glass is nice because it doesn't stain and it's really easy to clean.  I bought six of these puppies when I first saw them on a blog.   Sadly, I am now down to two because, welp, it's glass and sometimes it breaks (or gets left behind at Barnes and Noble even though they promise to hold it under the counter for you..grrr)

There is my wallet, sunglasses, and keys with the cutest love keychain that makes me smile...it's the little things people.  I've got two notebooks, one with stripes and one with polka dots, because well, polka dots and stripes ya know.

I also spy an EmergenC Immunity packet in there, because I have the immune system of a toddler and I get sick at least twelve times a year.  The best lotion hands down, Kiehl's Hand Cream - it even works great for those ashy ankles that magically show up an hour after you've oiled yourself down in the morning, (black folk know what I am talking about).

Last but certainly not least is my iPhone (not pictured for picture taking purposes), ear buds and charger.  The past few months, my phone rapidly loses battery after like an hour of use..my husband says its Instagram, but I say it is just an aging phone.  While I was shopping for my husband's Christmas gift I discovered the Mophie battery case.  I can't quite decide if I want to get a new phone or stick this one out for another couple of years and go with the case for my 4s...birthday present...anniv gift...we shall see.
 
Thanks for tagging me Don't Forget the Gloss!
 
XO,
Brandi Alexander
 
p.s. Love that it has been nearly two years since my last post.  No big secret what my "resolutions" are each year.

New Year and Some Change

Wow! We are already more than halfway through the first month of the New Year.  In the beginning of the year, I find myself trying unexpected outfits just to shake up the creative rut I fall into after the busy holiday season.  This outfit felt so fun and sexsay yet pulled together enough to wear to work when I threw a blazer over the sheer black shirt.  It really did, I promise.  I can’t tell you how long I searched for the perfect polka dot tights!!

H&M skirt and Express Tights

I have never really been one for resolutions because… let’s just face it, who wants to feel like a failure each and every year.  I prefer to consider each year as an opportunity to discover new things about myself and to continue to improve upon the things I already know.  Believe it or not folks, I don’t consider myself to be perfect (you know who I am talking to ;0). 

Here is to the journey 2012 has to offer!  Okay I know it is January 20^th but go with me here!

Getaways

Right before the holiday season my guy planned a little weekend getaway to a coastal town that I have been wanting to visit for some time, Half Moon Bay.  I packed a few different clothing options, not knowing what to really expect with the weather, arrived early to Oakland and we hopped on a Cessna, ready to have a mini adventure. 



Zara top, Express Zelda Jean Leggings, H&M handbag, Prada sunglasses



We spent the afternoon walking around, hanging on the beach, exploring this little neighborhood called El Granada and enjoying the local cafe.  Turns out I packed just the right outfit choices, comfortable shoes and flirty tops and dresses.  I loved the intricate details on this top so much, I bought another in white!

That night he took me to one of the most exquisite restaurants in the city called Cafe Gibraltar.  What a lucky girl I am!

Season Change



jacket-H&M, purse-H&M, boots-Kenneth Cole



Where has the time gone! After a lovely few months spent cheering for my lil guy during his first season playing football, I finally have some time to channel some creative energy.  I travel between Los Angeles and Oakland/San Francisco quite frequently, so layering for the change in weather is key.   I am kind of a baby when it comes to being cold...me no likey.  I will pull out a scarf, gloves and a hat in a heartbeat if the temperature hits a brisk 60 degrees! I picked up this military style jacket from H&M on a whim before the weather changed.  It has literally become my go to jacket this season.  It is lightweight and perfect for layering over a chunky knit without adding too much bulk. Oh and a shirt and gloves too, it was chilly..brr.  I have yet to master the art of taking photos without regard to the elements.

San Juan Capistrano

This weekend the boys and I decided to take a little excursion to visit the Mission in San Juan Capistrano, taking full advantage of public transportation, we took the Metrolink from the Los Angeles Union Station.  We spent some time in the Los Rios district at the Petting Zoo and enjoyed an amazing lunch at Aldo's Sidewalk Cafe.  I have to say their bruschetta was to ah-mazing and Aldo was so friendly!  Finally, the boys and I got to experience the beauty of the only California Mission in Orange County.  It was a perfect day spent experiencing new things.