Chattering Gem

Today you are YOU...

2012-01-27T12:16:00.001-05:00

Have a Great Weekend Lovers!

xJah

Finding Real Joy

2012-01-25T13:34:00.003-05:00

You all recall my SOYJOY Daycation adventure this past summer right? And the awesome giveaway soon after? Yes, that was a good day (shout out to Kristen!). Well, it seems we have more adventures to look forward too. The fortunate gal that i am, i was again approached by SOYJOY and chosen as one of five bloggers to be a 'JOYTESTER' - a campaign designed to encourage ways to help find real joy in YOUR everyday life. Needles to say i was thrilled and accepted without hesitation. This is such a big deal for my little blog. Uh-Mazing! This year SOYJOY will challenge us all and I can't wait to see what they've got up their sleeve.

I cannot express how excited i am to work with this bran again; from the very start they have been nothing but exceptional. Plus working alongside such an inspiring group of people is such a treat, AND to be the only Latina Lifestyle Blogger of the group. WEPA!!!

My first challenge (one of three), is scheduled for sometime in March. So stay tuned to see what new SOYJOY adventure i'll be up too next. You know its gonna be good. In the mean time i invite you to take advantage and enjoy this GIVE & GET SOYJOY coupon. This is a winning situation all around, lovers.

* My JOYTESTERS Blogger Partners in Crime *

Ryan - Pausethemoment.com

Courtney - SweetToothSweetLife.com

Jennifer - ShesAFitChick.com

Janae - HungryRunnerGirl.com

It's hump day. Do it up!

xJah

A New Purpose

2012-01-23T22:55:00.001-05:00

I got this beautifully woven plum colored clutch two years ago in a little Parisian Boutique. I spent €40 on it with no real purpose of what to wear it with. I just wanted it. Total impulse buy. Since then i've only used it perhaps three times. Today its going to serve as a temporary carrying case for my new and beloved Kindle Fire.

It's a bit large but it will serve the purpose until i am able to get a proper protective case. Plus, it gives me a great excuse to use it. What do you think?

xJah

PS: are you like me who names most of my electronics? i name my electronics. i do. my new kindle is now dubbed KiKi-Fuego. :)

A Late Christmas

2012-01-23T10:30:00.000-05:00

Please divert your eyes from the unflattering sweater and instead look at the box i am holding. YES, my family paid attention and gifted me a brand new Kindle Touch!!!! A late but perfect Christmas present. (Happy Dance)

*UPDATE*

While enthusiastically setting up my brand new and beloved Kindle Touch, conveniently the commercial promoting the even newer Kindle Fire aired. I was now torn. That damn Ad got to me. The Kindle Fire came in color with web-browsing capabilities for shopping online, blogging and of course, fulfilling its purpose as a convenient electronic book reading devise! I now longed for the Fire. What to do? Well, easy - i shamelessly asked the fam if they would be ok with me returning the Touch in exchange for the Fire aaaaand Vuala!

YES, I'm now the proud owner of the brand new Kindle Fire!!!!

I've wanted a Kindle for so long. My daily commute as i hustle into the city is easily 45 minutes to an hour. This will certainly make those days more bearable. And although at heart is still enjoy a good hardcover - its pages, the touch, the smell - with the Kindle i know i will be encouraged to read more books. I will continue to purchase my hardcover copies but will reserve these only for the classics - as it should be.

THANK YOU FAMILY. I LOVE YOU DEARLY!

Happy Monday Lovers!

xJah

Simply Etta James

2012-01-20T13:00:00.004-05:00

I sing the songs that people need to hear.

Rest In Peace, Etta James.

Slow Dancing in a Burning Room

2012-01-19T11:16:00.001-05:00

Although I shared this video earlier on twitter a proper blog post was most definitely in order. This is singer/songwriter Ginette Claudette, and i just recently discovered her and her wicked cover of John Mayer's 'Slow Dancing in a Burning Room' on youtube. Her raspy breathy voice pulls this off so perfectly and effortlessly, i was hooked. I am right now going through the remainder of her vids and so far i approve.... and i think you will too. I have a feeling we will be hearing a lot more from Ginette. Enjoy!

In my eye I spy....

2012-01-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

Just some random images taken over the course of the last three days...

{54th & 6th}

{MOMA in French}

{Baby Shower Berries}

{No Smoking New York - Christopher St. #1 Train}

It's Hump Day Lovers.

Rock on!

xJah

A Late Golden Globe Fashion Recap

2012-01-17T10:00:00.000-05:00

No, i did not watch the Golden Globes. No, i still don't have cable television. Yes, i know i am late with this post. Yes, i understand you might not care but... here, still are my favorite looks of the evening. These are in no particular order. Do we agree?

Angelina Jolie in Atelier Versace

Despite the fact that she's simply stunning, i am so much more impressed with her choice of color. Away with the morbid black. The color combination of this gown is rich and exquisite.

Claire Danes in J. Mendel

I feel like i have seen her in this cut before but it fits her well. Plus i really like the details of shoulder and waistline.

Emma Stone in Lanvin

I love everything about this dress. The colors, the cut, the pronounced shoulder... almost arial. (it makes sense in my head)

Jessica Alba in Gucci

Bella! Just beautiful. I wish i could make out more of the details.

Salma Hayek in Gucci

Simply gorgeous. I am in love with the draped vertical lines of the skirt.

Jessica Biel in Elie Saab.

Like a fairytale...and the makeup was magnificent.

And HOT Leo for good measures ;-)

Until the Oscars lovers

xJah

Photo credit via Fashionologie & Lainey's Gossip

Happy MLK Day

2012-01-16T12:00:00.003-05:00

Behind the Scene

2012-01-13T11:25:00.000-05:00

Back in mid December i was fortunate enough to shadow my friend Lilliana (Cheap Chicas), as she prepared for yet another one of her fabulous segment for The Nate Berkus Show. This one called for achieving 30 days worth of winter looks for LESS!

Now i've seen Lilliana in action many a times so I was never doubtful of her achieving this fete....and although i knew it was in the bag (it is Lilliana after all) i could not help but just sit back and be in complete awe of the situation. 30 models. 30 looks. All in one room changing, having their makeup done and styled; it was the most organized madness i've seen ever.

It was fun to see the run-through prior to the taping; seeing how easy of a rappor Lilliana and Nate had with each other and how well the entire crew got along. It was a fun day and great learning experience. You never quite know what goes on behind the scene of a great show - it takes great people to achieve this. I wish had taken more photos. I was afraid of being to eager so i have nothing to share, however, the show does air this afternoon. Check your local listings and watch. You will be amazed at how simple these pieces are and how much use you can get out of them. I for one was lucky enough to walk away with the leather vest Lilliana is wearing and have already paired it with a few great pieces i own. It's perfection.

Thanks again Lil for having me tag along. It was a super experience!

It's the weekend lover's. What are your plans?

xJah

Somebody That I Used to Know

2012-01-12T13:09:00.000-05:00

Alright, so i know this video has made its round on facebook but i just had to share here. This rendition of Gotye's "Somebody That I Used to Know" is so addictive i can't stop listening... and the video is super wicked and clever. Walk of the Earth can now count me as one of their many fans. AWESOME work here.

ps. i know i've posted a few mored vids than normal but i've just been on this music kick. Rock on!

The Future Belongs...

2012-01-11T11:28:00.003-05:00

It's Hump Day Lovers, get through it.!

xJah

Baby You're a Firework***

2012-01-10T10:30:00.000-05:00

Do you facebook stalk? Yes, you do. Don't lie! So i was facebook stalking my friend Sasha's page when i saw that someone posted this incredible video on her page. I'm in love. This little girl, Noelle, just made Katy Perry Firework sound like a lullaby. I'm all over this. And you should be too. BRILLIANT!!!

By the way, i invite you to "like" my facebook. ;-)

Food Lovers Unite

2012-01-09T10:30:00.000-05:00

I know i boast a lot about my friends and well, they deserve it. They are just awesome! There's no other way to describe them. The best is when they randomly email you with strict instruction to show at their place for a surprise dinner. What's the surprise? Nothing. Just an amazing Lasagna dinner cooked for you. LOVE!

This was the case with Sheila (you met her here). Both her and Mishelle came across a farmers market somewhere in the catskills... i think... racked up on goodies and the cooking ensued. I may still be food drunk from all the goodness and wine.

And lucky for you Sheila was kind enough to share her recipe. I have yet to try it on my own but i can't wait to get started. Maybe is should host my own dinner party. Here some yummy photos and at the bottom you will find the step by step instructions.

Our host and chef Sheila in true form. She may hate me for this one. ;0)

Appetizer: Roasted mushroom tapenade on toasted french baguette and my favorite cheap wine ever, Mirassou. (Thanks Anat, for getting me into this wine)

Getting started...

Viola (no meat)

Dinner is served!

There's a dance party in her head at all times. At all times. This is how we spent most of our Spain trip earlier in the year. EPIC!

The lovelies: Mishelle, Sheila, & Eryn

Yours truly, Shelly, & Eryn. (the hair has got to go soon. ugh)

**LASAGNA**

- 1 box lasagna pasta

- 1 16 oz. container of ricotta

- 1 12-16 oz. jar of tomato sauce

- 1 small yellow onion

- 4 cloves garlic

- 1 container baby portobello mushrooms

- Breadcrumbs

- Romano cheese for grating

- Italian seasoning (or oregano, basil and/or parsley)

Bring large pot of salted water to boil. In the meantime, chop garlic, onion and mushrooms and saute at Med high heat in 2 tbsp olive oil. Lightly oil an 8X12 (or similar sized) casserole dish. Preheat oven to 375 F.

When water is boiling, add pasta and boil for 4 minutes. Strain; now cover pasta with cold water and a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Add ricotta to medium-size mixing bowl and fold in the sauteed mixture. Season with salt, pepper and Italian seasoning.

Now you're ready to make lasagna! Layer bottom of casserole dish with tomato sauce, then add one layer of pasta. Spoon ricotta mixture over, sprinkle breadcrumbs and grate romano. Repeat layers until dish dish is full. Bake until bubbly and serve!

Happy Monday and Buen Provecho Lovers!

xJah

Friday's Few

2012-01-06T12:37:00.001-05:00

1. Restaurant Week

2. Scented Candles

3. Dinner Parties

Jason Wu for Target II

2012-01-05T13:23:00.000-05:00

I first wrote about it here. And this week we finally have a hint of what to expect of Jason Wu's 60's and French New Wave film inspired line for Target. I don't know about you but i am all over this. This A-line dress with sailor-striped hemline is perfection. “My goal was not to duplicate anything from my main collection,” Wu says. “Instead I designed completely new clothes and accessories that reflect my taste and have a voice of their own.” February 5th cannot come any sooner.

Source: Time Magazine Blog

Muppets Making love: "Perfect"

2012-01-04T13:45:00.002-05:00

THE NEW ROBIN ANDRE AND, LADY POET VIDEO!!! Guest blogger Brad here dropping the top 3 REASONS this video is awesome although there are certainly many more....drum roll please......NUMBER 1 - Muppets Making love. NUMBER 2 - "We even use the Same toothbrush", "who does that" NUMBER 3 - Muppet Lovers Flying through Space with no form of realistic space craft.

The Goal Roll

2012-01-03T10:30:00.000-05:00

Alright, so this was inevitable. We all do it, and we all feel the need to divulge hoping the pressure will lead us to stick with at least three from the list. Yes, i am talking about my New Years' goal. I will try to be realistic - sometimes its the little victories that moves us forward. So here are my intended little victories i hope to accomplish. Some are immediate, as in daily, others are further down the line but achievable.

I will make my bed every morning
I will try to have a proper breakfast during proper breakfast hours
I will try to have more tea and ease up on the coffee
I will wash every dish i dirty immediately
I will not wait for my laundry bag to become so filled i have to drag it down the stairs
I will rid of every junk mail immediately. No more accumulated paper garbage
I will run at least 3 times a week
I will try try try to commit to yoga. (God help me)
I will practice my guitar at least 3 times a week
I will support more of my friends musical projects
I will commit to more DIY projects
I will photograph more
I will cook more
I will grow this blog and make YOU proud!
I WILL find a job. A good Job. A job i love. A JOB!

What are YOUR goals for 2012?

xJah

Follow Your Bliss

2012-01-02T02:46:00.000-05:00

It's the first week of the new year, 2012. We've made it yet another year. God is Good.

I wanted to open this first post of the week/year with a few soft and blissful images. Pretty things to get us through the day and to inspire our week. There is the rest of the week to inundate you with new year's goals and resolutions.

As always, happy monday lovers and make it a great one!

x Jah

images via pinterest

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T19:54:00.000-05:00

May the new year bring love, prosperity, health, adventures, great possibilities and promises.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

And so it Begins

2011-12-31T01:54:00.004-05:00

The year 2011, I cannot fully scorn and/or hold it in contempt for in reality it was a good year in many, many ways. Bittersweet would best describe the whirlwind that has been my life these last 365 days. Not a day passed that i wasn't in awe of some new extraordinary situation that presented itself. I awoke each day not quite knowing where it would take me. Scary and exciting all at once.

My friends have been a huge support system to me and i cannot express enough how much they mean to me (you all know who you are). And family, its been rough with the deteriorating health of the matriarch of our family but each new day with her is a blessing. And each new day brings us closer and closer. Cancer is bitch! There.

2011 has set the ground for some great opportunities in 2012. As cliche as it may be i am excited for 2012. I've seen my little blog take legs and it has grown moderately. I am proud of where it is and where it is going. I anticipate a few new changes that i cannot wait to share.

My wish for this new year is for exciting adventures, positive growth in any and every way possible, lots of promises, good health and love. Not just for me, but for you too.

Thank you so much for your continued support and have a wonderful and blessed new year.

Happy 2012!

xoxo

Jah

via pinterest

A Hint of my New Year's Eve Costume

2011-12-30T21:45:00.001-05:00

A little hint of my Golden New Year's Eve costume. I'm so excited!

As with the past few years, I'll be playing hostess at The Village Underground annual soiree until the stroke of midnight. Then its party with friends until the wee hours of the morning. I've been preparing my body for the alcoholic abuse i will be subjecting it too.

Below are what the pieces consist of and here is what i wore last year.

Metallic Gold Dress ~ W118 by Walter Baker (purchased at Loehmann's)
Metallic Gold Shoes ~ Jessica Simpson (purchased at Loehmanna's)
Copper Clutch ~ Cheap Chicas (previously Apple Star Designs)
Copper & Metallic Gold chocker ~ (purchased in a little boutique in the Hamptons)
Jeweled clustered cuff/bracelet ~ (Ann Taylor Loft)

How are you spending your New Years'?

Friday's Few

2011-12-30T15:28:00.002-05:00

1. Champagne Toast

2. New Beginnings

3. Bright Futures

Happy Friday lovers! We're almost there.

xoxo

Jah

Cheesy Souvenirs Syndrome

2011-12-29T12:27:00.000-05:00

At some point we've all gotten those cheesy- i just returned from my fabulous trip, now look what i got you - souvenirs. You know what i meant. These are often things you stare at, smile, and thank the giver as wholeheartedly as possible.... while wondering what the hell you're supposed to now do with yet another keychain, refrigerator magnet, ceramic bowl or whatever this thingamajig is. Admit it, it happens to the best of us. Ahhhhh!

I usually don't mind them. Thankfully the one's i've gotten have been pretty decent and i've kept a large majority of them. Plus, i often do ask people to bring me something significant from whatever country they are visiting so i can then add to my 'Wall of Wonder' collection (a bit of that another time).

My aunt brought me these from Nicaragua. She's a good gift giver. She understands the fine line between a cheesy souvenir and a keeper. This pictured above is a keeper. They are so cute, bright and colorful. But what makes them extra special is that they are personalized. As you can see the friendship bracelet has my name of it and so does the little man keychain. I'm totally rocking this keychain right now. And the tiny knitted indigenous bag is just adorable. Good Job Tia Alta!

It's Thursday Lover. We've almost to the end.

Make it a great one.

XOXO

Jah

Finally! Meet my New Leopard Print iPhone Case

2011-12-27T19:28:00.000-05:00

A tiny but victorious update. Ever since owning my precious iPhone i have been in search for the perfect case as noted here and here. One that was practical, stylish, affordable, and not too bulky.

For two weeks it wore a flimsy red jelly case given to me by the Verizon store clerk (thanks Verizon dude). I was then gifted a lovely Kate Spade case by the even lovelier, Miss Z. I adored that case so very much. The only problem with a Kate Spade case however is that it is cheaply manufactured. Yeah i said it. I don't want too but it's the truth. It's made out of plastic and it is more for style than for practicality. Meaning, one drop and you could pretty much guarantee that some part of the case will be broken... which is what happened to me and countless other people i know. Hugely disappointed because the designs are all so adorable.

The answer to my problem came by way of J. Crew. I first saw this case adorning my friend, Cheap Chicas newly purchased iPhone. I love it. I needed to have it. And being the savvy shopper that she is, i knew it would be something my pocket could agree with. And it was. She had gotten it from J. Crew for $25! I, however got mine last week on sale for $19. THANK YOU J. CREW!!!

This case is awesome. It's everything i'm looking for: practical (fits like a glove and its strong non-flimsy rubber), stylish (hello leopard print), super affordable, and definitely not too bulky.

A big thank you to all that contributed to my relentless search for the perfect case... and to Love Maegan for tweeting this great find and subsequently reminding me that i need to write this post. Ha!

XOXO

Jah