30 days of photos: Day 20

Day 20: A picture of your favorite band or artist

This was a tough one.  I love so many artists!  I have a pretty wide range of artists on my iPod at any given time; anything from classic rock to techno-pop.  Thus, it was pretty difficult to just decide on one.  So I thought, why not do more than one?  It's my blog and I make the rules.  Yeah, I said it!

My all time favorite is The Beatles.  I know, I'm an old person in a young person's body!  But you have to give it up to them.  They changed the look and feel of music like no one else!  

Blackbird is my favorite song ever.  So soulful, so inspirational.  Love...

Right now, I'm really digging on Katy Perry and David Guetta.

 I mean who doesn't love Katy Perry?  Fun music with a rocking dance beat.  I can rock out to her any time!  Plus she always looks amazing!  Just the right balance between cute girl next door and total sex kitten.

Everything David Guetta touches turns to sold.  He knows how to make a club hit like nobody's business!  He'll keep you dancing the night away for sure!

Who are your favorite artists or bands?  I'd love to know!  List them in the comment section below. :)

30 days of photos: Day 19

Day 19: A picture of your biggest insecurity

This would be the dreaded acne.  I must admit that I too battle it.  So if you are a fellow adult onset acne fighter, know that you're not alone.

No one feels cute with acne on their face, but I think that it's ten times worse as an adult.  Honestly, I could have it much, much worse than I do.  So I count my blessings daily, though I am eagerly awaiting it's departure from my life.

For now, I have a secret weapon.  Among the myriad of lotions and potions that my dermatologist has given me, this one is my favorite.  Since we're friends, I'll share it with you.

Lycogel: Acne Control Camouflage

This stuff rocks!  It treats and conceals blemishes (ie. acne, rosacea, uneven skin tone, scars, etc.) without looking or feeling heavy.  Plus, it's totally breathable, has an SPF of 30, and is water resistant for 90 minutes!  Now you can look flawless anywhere and treat your acne at the same time!  They even have an anti-aging one too!  I'd wear it even if I didn't have acne, it's that comfortable and you can't beat the SPF protection, especially here in the islands.

Take that acne!  You're not the boss of me!

30 days of photos: Day 18

Day 18: A picture of something you recently purchased

Remember that Kate Spade sample sale?  Well here's the result...lol.  It's a lot bigger than I thought it was going to be, but I still like it.  It's a fuchsia satin shoulder bag with dark purple grosgrain ribbon straps.  Very unique...which, of course, I needed to add to my collection!

Seeing as it's satin, I'm not sure how long it's going to last.  One accidental spill on it and I think it'll be history.  May turn out to be a special occasions only bag.  But, hey, at least I'll look cute while it lasts!

30 days of photos: Day 17

Day 17: A picture of someone you miss

My bestie Kat.  She went off to law school in the mainland.  So now I only see her at Christmas time and during the summer.  She'll be a fabulous lawyer, but for now I'm missing my shopping buddy and partner-in-crime.

30 days of photos: Day 16

Day 16: A picture of something that you love

I heart my flat iron.  I have no idea how I lived my life without it.

Actually, I do know how I lived my life pre-flat iron.  Like this...

I was a frizzy, albeit smiling and happy, mess.  I had no idea what I was missing!

Check the bangs people!  Blow drier I hate you...lol.  (The baby is Alexandra.  I used to babysit her a lifetime ago.  She's seven now!  Holy cow, I'm getting old!)

Thank you hair straightening flat iron for showing me the error of my ways.  I will be forever in your debt.

30 days of photos: Day 15

Day 15: A picture of yourself and a family member

Since we're awesome friends, I'll do you all one better!  This is my whole family.  Mom and Dad are in the front, La'akea and I on the right side, and Zac and Mel in the back.  Just one big happy family. :)

30 days of photos: Day 14

Day 14: A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without

My husband, of course!

I'm sure you all could have guessed this one.  I'll love you forever, darling!

30 days of photos: Day 13

Day 13: A picture of something you hate

I hate the smell of cigarette smoke.  I mean HATE it.  It's totally gross.  Sorry all you smokers out there, but the smell makes me physically ill.  I was super excited when they stopped allowing cigarette smoking in restaurants or near buildings here in Hawaii. Hooray for smoke-free experiences!

Also, it makes me sad when people smoke near their kids.  They inhale it too, not just you.  (Okay stepping off my soap box now.)

Smoke if you must, just do it far away from me please.

30 days of photos: Day 12

Day 12: A picture of you when you were little

Grandpa and me at my preschool graduation.

Awww, so cute!

Little known fact about me: I have naturally curly hair.  It is a pain in the butt to manage.  Don't let anyone tell you differently.  If they do, they are lying!  I love it now because I've learned how to manage it with minimal effort (It usually involves a super hot straightener or gel.), but then it was utter chaos.  Good thing I was so cute...lol.

30 days of photos: Day 11

Day 11: A picture of your day

Kailua Beach Park

*This was taken on Saturday.  I know, I know.  I'm a few days behind.  Why that still surprises you I'll never know...lol.  Seriously, though, I was having trouble with my computer and getting the pictures to work.  That's my excuse for missing blog posts and I'm sticking to it!

We spent some time at Kailua beach watching the UH engineering students build sand castles.  Seeing as how it was the engineering department putting on the event I expected to see some killer sand castles, but surprisingly only one team built buildings.  I guess they were tired of only working with buildings.

Here are a few pictures of the sand sculptures that I thought were cool:

Chinese Lion

 

Elephant

Food of some sort I think.

iPhone complete with grasping hand.

Random picture of my husband laughing while I took yet another picture of him.  Love... :)

Pharaohs...I'm not really sure.  Some kind of ancient ruin.

Slumdog buildings or that's what their sign said.

Sumo laying down in the sand.  I really liked this one.  The sumo's toes were sticking out of the ground like he buried his feet, but the water was starting to wash them away by this time.  Totally cute idea guys!  The gyoza in the background were really cool too!

Sushi platter.

The world as a melting pot.  Very creative!

I can't wait to see what you all come up with next year!

30 days of photos: Day 10

Day 10: A picture exposing your shelf

(No I'm not exposing myself on the internet.  At least not for free!  Lol...just kidding.) 

This is my favorite shelf in my house.  I think that it sums up our collective personality well.  It just feels so Arielle and La'akea, if you know what I mean.

I know that you are dying for a closer look.  So here's your chance.

The top shelf.  Yes, that is an empty picture frame.  I loved it and bought it some time ago.  I thought that I would put a wedding photo in there one day, but never really got around to it.  I thought about taking it out of the shot, but then it just wouldn't be a realistic view of my everyday life.  I just couldn't do that to you all.  This is Arielle Unplugged.

The second shelf.  This is, by far, my favorite of all the shelves.  I love the scattered books and knick-knacks.  I love the picture of La'akea and I laughing.  (That's one of my favorite pictures of us together.)  I love the silver piggy bank that doesn't fit anything larger than a nickle in it.  (My Mom brought it back from Canada.  I guess they don't have money the size of quarters there.)  I smile every time I look at this shelf.

The third and fourth selves.  I think that they need some re-working, but all-in-all still cute.  The fourth shelf has my cookbooks on it.  Yes, those giant binders are my homemade cookbooks.  They are a compilation of all the recipes that my Mom and I have tried and collected over the years.  I think I currently have almost 200 recipes in those binders.  I know, I know.  I'm a psycho, but when I need a recipe I know exactly where it is! 

Happy Fabulous Friday y'all!

30 days of photos: Day 9

Day 9: The weirdest picture on your cell phone

This is by far the weirdest picture on my cell phone.  I took this picture to send to a friend.  It was one of those, "What are you going to wear tonight?  Is this okay?" pictures.

Look at my face.  I was concentrating so hard about getting the dress in the shot that I forgot to smile or look like a semi-normal person...lol.

La'akea says that this dress is cursed because every time I say that I am going to wear it our plans get canceled.  If I say that I'm going to wear it he says, "Oh then I won't need to worry about getting ready then.  We'll be staying home."  Haha...

It still has the tags on it people!  Please someone take me out somewhere that I can wear it and break the cycle!

30 days of photos: Day 8

Day 8: A picture of something that makes you crazy excited

SAMPLE SALES!!!!  Aaaaaahhhhhhh!!!!!!  This one is for Kate Spade.  It's only going on until the 18th, so be sure to check it out!  

Did I buy anything?  You bet your sweet bottom I did!  I bought another purse...lol.

I love me a good sample sale.  All the clothes and accessories.  The deeply discounted prices.  Having to fight other women to get the last pair of size 8 1/2 red patent leather stilettos.  Wonderful, just wonderful!

(No, I've never actually gotten into a fight with another woman over sale items, but I've seen it happen.  Women get catty over accessories.  No joke!)

Sample Sale Shopping Tips:

• Take a group of your best girlfriends with you.  That way you can split up and shop for each other.  Discuss everyone's style preferences and sizes ahead of time. 
• If you see it and you like it, grab it.  It won't be there when you go back for it later.
• Keep all of the things that you want right next to you.  If you don't some other woman will claim it as hers.
• Wear nice underwear.  You'll most likely be trying things on in a huge open dressing room with a billion other ladies.  You don't want to be the one wearing your laundry day undies...or none at all for that matter!
• Make friends in the dressing room.  If you see another woman eying up something that you tried on and didn't like, pass it on to her.  She'll appreciate it and possibly trade you something that she didn't like but you do.  Score!
• Breath and just have fun.  You'll have to wait in at least one long line and you'll  probably have to wait your turn for the mirror.  So make the best of it.  Talk to people, smile, and enjoy yourself!

30 days of photos: Day 7

Day 7: A picture of your most treasured item.

I don't think I really have a most treasured item.  If I did it would probably be my photo albums.  But day to day, it's this baby right here.  It's beautiful and I love it.  (Michael Kors you know me oh so well.  I can always come into your store and find something that I need...lol.)

I am a nutcase about my purse, just ask my husband.  I'd make him hold it before I would even think about putting it on the ground.  And snacks in the purse?  Oh hell to the no! 

A woman's purse is a serious thing.

30 days of photos: Day 6

Day 6: A picture of something on your mind

This is what is on my mind.  My sweet husband had this waiting for me when I woke up this morning.  Although we agreed to only exchange cards for Valentine's Day, he went the extra mile.  It's such a sweet gesture, so I guess I'll have to forgive him for breaking our agreement.

Thanks Darling for making me feel so special!  Pickle juice. :)

30 days of photos: Day 5

Day 5: A picture of one of your favorite memories.

This one is easy...my wedding day!  It was magical and wonderful, everything I could have ever asked for and more. 

Thanks to all who cooked, served, poured the spirits, took the pictures, parked the cars, created the flowers and decorations, did the hair and make-up, bought the dress, shoes, and bling, baked the cake, rocked the sound system, did the videography, baked the favors, helped assemble the invitations, kept me sane, kept my husband sane while I was out of my mind, scored us the awesome venue, maned the sign-in table, passed out the favors and the bubbles, and, most importantly, helped us celebrate our love.  I love you all!  Each and every one of you made our day special.  Thank you!

*All photos in this post were taken by the great Carol Oliva.  If you are in the Monterey, CA area be sure to look her up!

30 days of photos: Day 4

Day 4: A picture of your night.

I wasn't sure if I was supposed to do my typical night or my actual night, so I opted for my actual night.  (If it was my typical night you'd be getting a picture of the gym...not quite as fun.)

This is how I spend either Friday or Saturday night on most weekends.  The hubby and I hang out with my brother and a bunch of his friends. We have a few drinks and try to solve the world's problems.  As I type they are having a conversation about Obamacare.  (Drinks facilitating political conversation...not always a good mix, I will admit, but with this group it just works.)  They are a fun bunch of people.  Come over and join us some time!

Cheers!

30 days of photos: Day 3

Day 3: A picture of the cast from your favorite show

I had a hard time picking my favorite show.  I watch TV and enjoy a lot of shows, but have never really thought of what my actual favorite is.  So I asked my husband, "If someone else asked you what my favorite TV show was what would you say?".  He replied, "You get the most excited when Top Chef comes on.  So I would have to answer Top Chef."

Thus, Top Chef it is!  I do really love this show though.  The chefs are amazing!  It has opened my culinary world and gotten me to try many different foods that I would have never even given a second glance.  So hats off to all of the Top Chefs!  You've broadened my horizon!

Homework assignment for all you bloggies:  Go out and eat something new this weekend!  Always wanted to try that Indian restaurant down the road?  Do it!  You never know if you like something until you try it, right?

30 days of photos: Day 2

Day 2: A picture of you and the person that you have been close with for the longest time

It would have to be my Mom.  She's been by my side for my entire life.  Next to my husband, she's the most important person to me.  I can honestly say that I wouldn't be the person that I am today without her love and guidance.  Thanks Mom!

30 days of photos: Day 1

A few of my friends on Facebook are doing this 30 days of photos postings and I thought it would be fun to get in on the action.  I'm not super crazy about all of the days photo suggestions.  So I might have to 'Arielle' them up a bit, which will ultimately be more fun for you...lol.

Here goes nothing...

Day 1: A picture of yourself with fifteen facts

Photo taken by David Taylor from Taylor Photography in Kailua.  

(I used to work there a long time ago.  This photo was taken my senior year in high school.  David needed to test the lighting in the studio and I was the impromptu model.  I liked it though, so he let me have a copy of it.) 

1. I still watch cartoons on Saturday mornings...provided that I am awake that early.  Scooby Doo is my all time favorite!
2. I have the best brother in the whole wide world.  He can always make me smile.  We hang out at least once pretty much every weekend.  Scooby Doo is his favorite cartoon too.  I guess that means we're related, huh?
3. I can be very impulsive at times.  "Hey darling you know what would be fun?"  "No, what?"  "You and me opening a French Bakery."  "What?!  No."
4. I really want to eat a chocolate chip cookie right now.  I think I'll be making some later on today.
5. I am addicted to text messaging.  It's sad, but true.  Text me, please!
6. I am also addicted to shoes, but you knew that already.
7. If I could make all things in the world pink, I would.  Wouldn't a pink cat be super cool?!?
8. Soft, fuzzy blankets and me go together like peanut butter and jelly.
9. Everyone loves the smell of babies, but I secretly think that they smell like the collectible erasers that I used to collect as a kid.  You know the cutsie ones shaped like food or animals.  I'm a child of the 80s, we collected erasers for fun, okay?
10. I love mascara.  When in doubt, put more mascara on.
11. My toenails are almost always painted.  I think they look weird with no nail polish on, like they're naked or something.
12. Laughing is one of my favorite things to do. If I'm not laughing, then I'm trying my hardest to make other people laugh.
13. I have more hobbies than I'd like to admit.  My mother always said I was a jack-of-all-trades-but-a-master-of-none...so true, so true...lol.
14. I like the idea of eating healthy, but when given the choice I'll pick ice cream over salad any day.
15. My husband rocks and is the sexiest guy I know.  What can I say?  I know how to pick 'em...hehe.

WIDTW: Par-tay!

There's always that one weekend where you hop from party to party and then feel like you need another weekend just to recover.  Well this was that kind of weekend.

On Friday night we celebrated my nephew's birthday at 808 Bounce in Windward Mall.  (Happy Birthday Keola!)  Kids running wildly from bounce house to bounce house...let's just say I'm glad that I don't work there.   The kids had a great time though...lol.

After singing Happy Birthday to my nephew we headed out to my friend Nate's birthday party in Kailua.  (He came to my birthday party, so I definitely couldn't miss out on his shindig!  Plus I baked the cake.  It's just not a birthday party without cake!)  His party was so much fun, mostly because I got to hang out with people from high school that I haven't seen since we graduated all those many years ago.  (Ack, my 10 year reunion is coming up next year...ugh, why am I so old?)

Here's the birthday boy enjoying some spicy ahi.  Only in Hawaii will people chow down on raw fish.

Me and La'akea.  See you can see my cupcakes in the background!  Yellow cake filled with chocolate custard and topped with whipped cream to order.  I must admit, they were pretty yummy.

Chelsea and Charlemagne.  These ladies are awesome! 

Mr. and Mrs. Abe.  I babysit their little girl Bryn.  She's such a little bundle of joy!  They are the coolest, most laid-back parents ever!

Oh yeah...I brought the big guns with me.  Told you I've been working out like crazy!

Nate and Char.

Nate, Alisha, and Char.

I think that this one is my favorite...lol.

I like this one!  I think I may have to print it.

(I just realized that we were totally matching.  I promise we got ready separately! Unfortunately, this happens all the time.  Must be that we've been together too long...or that I buy all the clothes for both of us...lol.)

Group shot!

It's a little blurry, but I really like this one.  No one is really paying attention, which is kind of how we normally are...hehe.

Happy Birthday Nate!  You're the kindest, most caring person that I know.  Don't change for anyone!

I used Saturday to rest.  I seriously slept until like 3 in the afternoon and wasted the rest of the day away catching up on movies that I wanted to watch.  Awful, I know!  (I wish that I could sleep that long everyday!)

Then Sunday was Superbowl Sunday.  We hung out with my brother and his friends.  It was fun, though watching football, or any sport for that matter, makes me want to gouge my eyes out.  All was saved by the food and beer. 

The Superbowl of Food...
Main Dish: Angus burgers with all the fixings, Spring Rolls, and homemade sweetbread 'pig-in-the-blanket's.  (I'm not usually a hot dog fan, but those are awesome!  Next time I or my Mom makes them, I'll do a step-by-step tutorial.  They go fast at parties, so be sure to bring a lot!)

Dessert: Mochi.  (Little known fact about me...I love mochi!  I will shamelessly eat huge pieces of it, even at parties.  It is delicious.  Maybe even better than chocolate.)

We also got to sample my brother's home brewed Pale Ale beer.  You know what?  It wasn't half bad!  It tasted like beer!  (I know, who would have thought?  A beer that tastes like beer...lol.)  I think it'll taste even better next weekend when it's aged a little bit longer.  Bravo Zac!  I can't wait to taste your Oatmeal Stout in a few weeks.

So that was my weekend in a nutshell.  How was your weekend?  Do anything interesting?  More importantly, what was your Superbowl menu like?