XOXO, Eliana

32

2012-06-19T00:06:00.000-04:00

five mins to 32. i thought i was done-zo with this blog, but her are a few pearls as i age.

1. family is the most important thing, frustrating, flaws, annoying whatever. deal. i am eternally thankful for mine.
2. the best piece of advice i ever got. you are not over something till you can speak about it and not cry.
3. be the best you can be everyday, your best tuesday may not be as good as your best thursday,; still give your best.
4. trust others - you'd be surprised
5. make new friends
6. cherish old friends
7. find yourself and be true to that. read, write, sing, play, paint do whatever that pushes your buttons. ASK QUESTIONS!!!
8. smile. tons.
9. listen
10. dom't hold grudges. people do the best they can with what they have.
12. be careful with judgements. you'd be surpried how quickly roles can reverse.

be peaceful. be happy

XOXO

save the best for last...

2012-04-06T00:14:00.000-04:00

i love this story. it sums up quite a bit of the past few years. cheers to the new adventures of life, and the experiences and people who have brought me to where i am today!

THERE'S A HOLE IN MY SIDEWALK Autobiography in Five Short Chapters By Portia Nelson Click on a chapter heading to learn more.
Chapter One I walk down the street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I fall in. I am lost .... I am helpless. It isn't my fault. It takes forever to find a way out.	Chapter Two I walk down the street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I pretend that I don't see it. I fall in again. I can't believe I am in this same place. But, it isn't my fault. It still takes a long time to get out.
Chapter Three I walk down the same street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I see it is there. I still fall in ... it's a habit ... but, my eyes are open. I know where I am. It is my fault. I get out immediately.	Chapter FourI walk down the same street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I walk around it. Chapter Five I walk down another street. xoxo, eliana

Happy (Almost) New Year 2012!

2011-12-30T23:50:00.001-05:00

If you wanna roll, you gotta have wheels. Here's to rollin through 2011!

”In the depths of winter I finally learned there was in me an invincible summer.”Albert Camus

"We all Float on."Modest Mouse

xoxo, Eliana

A Different Kind of Fine By Ashley Ernest

2011-12-06T23:54:00.001-05:00

My amazingly tanlented friend, and RI-based Artist/Designer, Ashley Ernest, "specializes in one-of-a-kind jewelry and couture body adornment. Unique and handmade. Serious design, limited series, and custom made!" Just in time for Christmas Shopping!!!!

Available at Ashley Ernest (A Different Kind of Fine)

"All pieces available are made of Eco-Friendly resin (meaning resin derived from natural materials), vintage fabric!, and plated brass fish hooks. Light on the eyes and ears! Affordable." Currently, you can only purchase Ashley's designs by visiting her website or Etsy. The line is soon to debut in local boutiques so stay tuned!

xoxo, Eliana

My Christmas Mixtape

2011-12-06T22:10:00.000-05:00

I have been JAMMING out to this Christmas mix:
1. Last Christmas Wham (My Very Favorite Christmas Song Ever)
2. Winter Song Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson
3. Blue Christmas Elvis
4. Do They Know It's Christmas Band Aid
5. I Believe Andrea Boccelli
6. Shimmy Down the Chimney Alison Krauss
7. Silent Night Yo-Yo Ma
8. River Joni Mitchell
9. I'll Be Home Christmas Dolly Parton
10. The Christmas Wish John Denver and The Muppets
11. Simply Having A Wonderful Christmas Time Paul McCartney
12. Grown up Christmas List Harry Connick Jr.
13. Sending You A Little Christmas Jim Brickman featuring Kristy Starling
14. Rocking Around The Christmas Tree Brenda Lee

All Tracks Available at Amazon

That Magic Moment By Paulo Coelho

2011-11-15T22:38:00.001-05:00

Paulo Coelho has long been one of my favorite writers. The Alchemist's message struck a chord in me and forever changed my life. I will be reading his latest novel, ALEPH, during my trip to Spain and I am sure it won't disappoint. Here is a 40 SEC reading from Paulo Coelho's Blog. May you find your moment today, tomorrow, and everyday! xoxo, Eliana

40 SEC READING: the magic moment

by Paulo Coelho on November 7, 2011

“You have to take risks”- he said.
“We will only understand the miracle of life fully when we allow the unexpected to happen.
“Every day, God gives us the sun–and also one moment in which we have the ability to change everything that makes us unhappy.
“Every day, we try to pretend that we haven’t perceived that moment, that it doesn’t exist–that today is the same as yesterday and will be the same as tomorrow.
But if people really pay attention to their everyday lives, they will discover that magic moment.
It may arrive in the instant when we are doing something mundane, like putting our front-door key in the lock.
It may lie hidden in the quiet that follows the lunch hour or in the thousand and one things that all seem the same to us.
But that moment exists–a moment when all the power of the stars becomes a part of us and enables us to perform miracles.”
In “By the river Piedra I sat down and wept”

2011-07-20T21:41:00.000-04:00

Check out my brother, Nick's new blog, which will be journaling his adventures while studying abroad in Spain this year!

Mas O Menos

Btw, Nick got the idea of the blog name from me because mas o menos is always my reply when he speaks to me in Spanish. It means more or less.

i heard the remake of the song "heart of the matter" by India Arie

2011-06-27T01:32:00.001-04:00

I've been listening to this song for about four years now, and every time i hear it, I get the chills!serious - i love Don Henly in the original, but India's emotions basically blow me away, listen!

i think this is a song a lot of people who are in broken relationships can identify with. A beautiful lyric that stands out to me is "i've been learning to live without you now, but i miss you, baby. The more i know the less i understand, and all the things i thought i'd figured out ...i have to learn again. and love again." Forgiveness is so important in nurturing any relationship, not just romantic. We all know sometimes forgiving is the hardest thing to do, but the most important.

girl

2011-06-02T23:35:00.000-04:00

"Just don't give up trying what you really want to do. When there is love and inspiration I don't think you can go wrong."

Ella Fitzgerald

"Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world."
Harriet Tubman

xoxo, eliana

Boat shoes

2011-06-01T10:27:00.001-04:00

I love boat shoes with a cute pair of shorts or a sundress. My top three pics for Summer:

Sperry Top-sider A/O 2 Eye in Pink Canvas $70.00, Zappos

TOMS Yellow Bimini Women's Stitchouts $58.00, TOMS

For those gals who can't live without heels...

Lilly Pulitzer Just a Little Knotty Wedge $198.00, Zappos

XOXO, Eliana

It's in the bag!

2011-05-31T22:42:00.001-04:00

I have so much stuff! Organization is key, especially in my pocketbook, where I am constantly fishing for my cell and keys. Here are some great finds from Etsy to keep your purse perfecto!

A stylish weekly planner by Sarah Pinto (I have the navy with anchors)

Berri Leather Checkbook Cover-Birdies on a Tree Branch by Bambina
( I have the warm pink with gold)

Also, check out Bambina wallets, metro card mini wallets, and Cell phone gadget cases. Obsessed!

Small Oilcloth MakeUp Bag by Lucy Blaire Creations

Comes in a medium and large makeup bag, too!

XOXO, Eliana

Summer is right around the corner!

2011-05-23T05:52:00.000-04:00

Time to pull out the sundresses and fresh accessories. I am absolutely loving the prints from Tipsy Skipper. Kearsley Lloyd, started up this great line about a year ago, and the clutches, totes, flip flops, key fobs, and dog collars are nothing short of young, fun, and fabulous!

Tipsy Toes

Tipsy Totes

Captain Morgan Clutch

Why the homage to the Capt? Kearsley is a direct descendant of the Captain, himself. Her designs evoke a summer, sea-side vibe. Follow Tipsy Skipper's Summer Events and stay tuned for an xoxo, Eliana/Tipsy Skipper trunk show in the very near future! In the meantime, you can shop online @ Tipsy Skipper!

xoxo,

Eliana

I've got a crush on "Dylan"

2011-02-11T22:23:00.000-05:00

I can't get enough of linea pelle "dylan" spring collection! These turquoise and coral bags have me crushin' big-time...

LP Dylan Medium Tote
LP Dylan Large Speedy
LP Dylan Crossbody Carryall
LP Dylan Large Shoulder Bag

XOXO, Eliana

JOJO Blowout Sale!!!!

2011-02-03T16:38:00.001-05:00

Great news! Spoke to one of my fave gals, Josie, of JOJO Loves You, and they are having a super blowout sale. The reason for the big sale is to make room for the new spring collection which is amazing! JOJO is my favorite jewelry line, and I get so many compliments whether I am wearing my blings, baubles, or one of her great necklaces or rings. This sale is super and Valentine's day is right around the corner so treat yourself or someone you heart to some goodies.

Click here to check out the sale!

Bling yourself out!

xoxo, Eliana

Saturday Night's Alright

2011-02-03T06:31:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Sweet Abbie for the sunglasses. Cheers to me channeling Elton circa Honky Chateau during this weekend adventures!

"Her Name Was Lola"

2011-02-01T19:41:00.000-05:00

I have the Copacabanana stuck in my head. Possibly because its the umpteenth snowstorm and I am dreaming of warm weather, water and tropical fruity drinks.

Three more weeks till I am leaving on a jet plane towards the sunshine. With all this snow storm time on my hands, I've already planned a few Lola-ish items to pack:

From Top Left;
1. J. Crew Collins leather platform peep toes
2. Anthropologie Layers Of Lovely Cover-Up
3. J. Crew Jersey Lomellina® ruffle halter top
4. J.Crew Astin Dress
5. House of Harlow "Nicole" Sunglasses from The Hip Chick
6. J. Crew Jersey Lomellina® ruffle bikini
7. J. Crew Jersey Lomellina® one-shoulder ruched tank
8. Shopbop.com Tucker Smocked Collar Mini Dress
9. Piperlime Mystique 1644 Sandal

"Music and Passion were always the FASHION!"

xoxo, Eliana

Lovesac, Games & Dance Parties!

2011-01-28T18:32:00.004-05:00

Supersac by Lovesac

I found Lovesac in Providence Place Mall a few days ago. Comfy, comfy, more comfy & perfect for the new apartment. Me and the roomie love lounging around on the brand new couch, but Lovesac is perfect for when we have our friends over to watch Jersey Shore or play Bananagrams. Also, I plan to buy

Just Dance 2 this weekend so the sac's are easy to push out of the way for a dance party!

Don''t be surprised if you hear "368" rockin to Katy Perry singing

"Cause baby you're a firework, Come on show 'em what your worth, Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh!" As you shoot across the sky-y-y."

Maybe Pauly D will even stop by for some fun!

xoxo, Eliana

a rainbow

2011-01-28T03:01:00.002-05:00

Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters

2011-01-28T01:07:00.000-05:00

Long, long ago I heard Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters by Elton John. Every time I hear it I have the same experience of feeling so in touch with the lyrics and melody. Maybe its partly cause I lived in Manhattan, but more so I think because I have been blessed to know so many amazing people and have such unique experiences and the lyrics capture many memories poignantly.

"And now I know
Spanish harlem are not just pretty words to say
I thought I knew
But now I know that rose trees never grow in new york city

Until you've seen this trash can dream come true
You stand at the edge while people run you through
And I thank the lord there's people out there like you
I thank the lord there's people out there like you

While mona lisas and mad hatters
Sons of bankers, sons of lawyers
Turn around and say good morning to the night
For unless they see the sky
But they can't and that is why
They know not if it's dark outside or light

This broadways got
Its got a lot of songs to sing
If I knew the tunes I might join in
Ill go my way alone
Grow my own, my own seeds shall be sown in new york city

Subways no way for a good man to go down
Rich man can ride and the hobo he can drown
And I thank the lord for the people I have found
I thank the lord for the people I have found."

It's like a little piece of me captured. I love it. XOXO, Eliana

Pay it Forward

2011-01-28T00:56:00.002-05:00

I was in the snowy land which formerly resembled Fall River. Starting the Volvo up to head back to "368." As I was reversing out of my parking spot, a man in a full suit and long black jacket knocked on my window. It was odd, but I rolled down my window to see why he knocked. I was a little nervous (this was weird!).

The long black coat man proceeded to tell me his car got towed, and no one would help him get money for a taxi. He showed me his wallet for evidence that he was sans cash. He complained that people in "the riv" were jerks, and asked if I could help him out.

Coincidentally, I have been running low on cash flow myself due to the tremendous cost of moving and had my last ten dollar bill till payday. Still, I figured whether this man was lying or telling me the truth he needed that ten more than I did so I gave it to him and also pointed him in the direction of an ATM. He was endlessly thankful as I drove away.

Pulling onto the highway, I realized how fortunate I was to never have been in a situation like that. I also thought about a man who stood everyday at a stoplight I often passed through. He held a sign that said, "If you have no money to give. Please smile." I always did smile even if I had no change to offer, but I will admit it was awkward. It gets you to thinking that maybe some people really need the money to survive, maybe their liars, drug addicts, or have a family at home to feed. Possibly its just a means of making a living. Regardless of the reasons, It just goes to show that people take different paths on this journey of life, and you have to hope by offering a ten dollar bill, a snack, or even just a smile with a silent blessing you're doing the right thing. Many would disagree with me, and thats ok for them. For me, I hope its paying it forward.

snowstorm...call your clan

2011-01-26T19:49:00.004-05:00

"Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family. Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one." Jane Howard "Familes"

Sweet Kerri and Abbie decided to get snowed in @ the 368. hip hip! Kerri brought housewarming gifts. She's a virgin to 368 cause she was in CO for the big move in! Besides, all sorts of goodies she brought us a magnet that perfectly describes our friendship. The sweets, and your sweets who ever the may be, are vital to my being. In this conundrum called 30 my family or clan, tribe (what have you) help me to find happiness in everyday and laughter in every moment.

The fabulosity of this magnet only extends with this clan's phenomenal swimming suits. Coincidentally, Dawnis and I were checking out some vintage resort looks for PR:

All Swimmng Suits can be found on Anthropologie

BAKED LAYS, BAREFOOT, AND SATC COMPLETE DVD SERIES CAN BE FOUND AT 368.

xoxo, eliana

love love to my own clan...you know who you are!

Did I mention...

2011-01-25T20:22:00.002-05:00

watching "Love Actually" with my rooms. I watch it so much and never get tired of this movie. Probably because it shows so many aspects of love, but most of all that it "is all around."

"Whenever I get gloomy with the state of the world,
I think of the arrivals gate at Heathrow Airport.
General opinion's starting to make out
that we live in a world of hatred and greed,
but I don't see that.
It seems to me that love is everywhere.
Often it's not particularly dignified or newsworthy,
but it's always there - fathers and sons,
mothers and daughters, husbands and wives,
boyfriends, girlfriends, old friends.
When the planes hit the twin towers,
as far as I know none of the phone calls from the
people on board were messages of hate or revenge
- they were all messages of love.
And if you look for it,
I've got a sneaking suspicion
that love actually is all around."
Love Actually

and it really is so here are some ways to spread and share it!

Skurvy Heart Flip Flops by Paul Frank's Julius & Friends $6.00

The Big Love Oversize V-Neck in White Women's T-shirts By Wildfox $55.00

Other People's Love Letters: 150 Letters You Were Never Meant to See

18K Gold Plated "L ove" Keychain

LOVE CANDY MINT made by girl $35.00

Beatles T-shirt 'All You Need Is Love' white tee $20.95

JOJO Loves You Heart Necklace $30.00

"General opinion's starting to make out

that we live in a world of hatred and greed,

but I don't see that.

It seems to me that love is everywhere."

Spread it, give it, share it....LOVE!

xoxo, Eliana

come home by one republic

2011-01-23T20:42:00.001-05:00

Heart JC

2011-01-22T01:43:00.001-05:00

Love Jeffrey Campbell

Tick Wedge Bootie

Dipper Open Toe Wedge in White

Tick Fab Distressed in Natural-Multi

Makes me feel like going all GAGA & Beyonce!

Stop callin', stop callin',
I don't wanna think anymore!
I left my head and my heart on the dance floor.xoxo, Eliana

"Youth is wasted on the Young"...or maybe not

2011-01-21T14:23:00.005-05:00

Lucky for me, I spent sometime recently with a very special person in my life. My first crush. A best friend. A supportive and loyal confidante, JD. A person who no matter the time which passes, it seems like no time has passed at all when we get together. Still, there is so much to talk about we need hours on end. We are topic jumpers from dating, to career and school, to great literature and philosophies, fashion (this is one dude who knows style and fashion - love it!) and finally to living life. It seems as we get older we are on a "parallel" track. Both 30. Feeling compromised between our youthful old life styles and the onset of adulthood. If you happen to know that feeling, it is amazing to have a friend to connect with at this level and this in addition to the afore-mentioned charming qualities!

Anyhow, J.D. said to me "Do you know George Bernard Shaw?"
I mean DUH, do't you remember I studied Literature/Writing in College. "Right, Right, well, he once said "Youth is wasted on the Young.""

Well, Jess I remember he also said:
"Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself."

and more importantly

"the only service a friend can really render is to keep your courage by holding up to you a mirror in which you an see a noble image of yourself."

George Bernard Shaw, Irish Playwright & winner of the Nobel Peace Prize

“The only service a friend can really render is to keep your courage by holding up to you a mirror in which you can see a noble image of yourself”

I have that type of friend in JD and we have a lot of adventures to pursue this year while we are still enjoying the prime of our youth!

Seattle @ The Matador

TOMS "Love is the new black."

Bananagrams

“If, after I depart this vale, you ever remember me and have thought to please my ghost, forgive some sinner and wink your eye at some homely girl.” H.L. Mencken

Muah...love you, J.D. your friendship is truly a gift to me. wink, wink

xoxo, eliana