Peep To It

I think its some sort of annual DC tradition to have a contest based on Peeps--the Easter bunny-shaped candy that comes in yellow, pink, purple, etc. Peeps are chefs, prisoners (Guantanamo Peep) television stars! It's quite hilarious and very entertaining. Either Cassie or one of her friends are submitting one based on this years DC's Snowpocalypse (aka Bad Snowmance). Didn't they do a wonderful job?











Here are some more pictures of Peeps from last year's contest:










Its so cute and wonderful and creative that I've decided I want to take part in it one year!! How fun would that be? I'm adding it to my list of life goals! What would I do? The Golden Girls has already be done. Maybe My So-Called Peep? Peep Jovi? Oooh!! I could turn all my friends into Peeps --but nobody would get that really. How funny would "Fanny-Peep" be? Okay I am rambling.

Crunch Crunch! Brunch Brunch!

When people say "brunch" in the UK, my mind immediately thinks delicious stacks of french toast, maple syrup, endless cups of coffee, fresh fruit and home fries. Of course, that is the "American" in me, because brunch does not mean any of those things in London (except maybe the coffee part). It means baked beans, roasted tomatoes and who knows what else. Guys, I want an American brunch EVERY Sunday. I miss that about DC. DC may not do a lot of food right, but they definitely nailed it with brunch (and happy hour, but that is for a different post).

So when I wake up Sunday mornings, ready to grub, I want to magically transport myself to one of these little gems:

1. Napoleon, DC: coffees, crepes, decor, service---all fantastic! I am sorry I didn't get to it until my last Sunday in DC

2. Meadow Mountain Cafe, Colorado: Don't even get me started on their amazing home made bread and jam. This quaint cafe is near Boulder. I haven't been there in years, but the next time I am in Colorado, I plan on making a trip.

3. The Tabard Inn, DC: doesn't the name say it all?

4. Le Peep, Colorado: favorite college brunch place with fantastic gooey buns and yummy skillets. Although I heard its not as good as it used to be. Boo!

5. Cafe du Soleil, SF: Mmmm, yummy french toast, hot chocolate and pastries. What more do you want out of brunch?

A-Brooch Me

Question: What do strong, smart and fashionable women have in common?


1. Obviously you all are aware of my love for Michelle Obama. She is fantastic in many ways, which I will bring up several times throughout the lifespan of this blog, I'm sure! One of the ways her fashion sense inspires me is through her use of brooches. I always thought brooches belonged on old ladies, but then Michelle came along using broaches to add some pizazz to her already fabulous outfits. And Bam! Shift in perspective!

2. Around the same time I started opening up to this brooch business, I learned my friend Amy was also into using brooches to jazz up a dress, jacket or any ole outfit! Here's how the story goes. While I was living in DC, Amy took me to her favorite jewelry store, The Legendary Beast. This place is a definite treasure--great vintage and antique jewelry and not too much of a strain on the wallet. Yes, please! To my surprise, Amy was looking at the selection of brooches and she's certainly not 98! She's my age! Another eye-opening moment. The jeweler mentioned that since Ms. O was on the scene, brooches have become more popular. Are we surprised? Nope. Of course, lets give credit to Ms. Amy. She is ahead of the game and knew all along just how valuable a brooch can be to an outfit.


3. Mad Men. Need I say more? Have you seen the brooches the ladies rock? Specifically Ms. Harris? She's combines brooches and her signature necklace and it looks damn good! By the way, as I was searching for pictures of Joanie, I learned you can purchase a replica of her signature necklace at 1928.com- for those of you who are interested.

So what lesson have learned today? Brooches are fun, versatile accessories worn by intelligent, stylish women. How could I not embrace them?


Here I am modeling my very first brooch. Purchased in Prague.