Busy Bee

Life is passing before my eyes, even though I soaked up most of the hours of the day recently, staying until past 1 a.m. two nights in a row this weekend.

Major work event this week that has taken prep for the past few months. God bless color coding and dry erase boards. AND post it notes.

We enjoyed a major blast from the past on Friday night when the Ataris played at Dipiazza's in Long Beach. We went with my sister and her boyfriend Max, who clearly are much more in tune with the goings on of bands and their comeback tours than I am.

Diapiazza's/Villapiano's (That Thing You Do-anyone?anyone?) was a random Chain Reaction like establishment in the LBC. The band went on at 11 p.m. 11 p.m.!!! I had to have a Scarlett style rest at 8:30 to prepare to LEAVE the house at 10 p.m.

Saturday morning was atypical, but the best part was enjoying the day with this peach and his mom for a day in Laguna.

My neighbor has a very California-friendly garden and though Scott is not on board for our entire yard, I love the idea of these flowers in a bed out front.

We've also been treated to two great family dinners-one with my aunt and parents and one with Scott's family in honor of his brother's birthday.

And, amen, Mad Men is back. TGMonday is over.

(photo credit)

Not Your Mother's Mums*

For those of us who have yet to move onto our own plantations with sprawling flower fields and pastures, we are limited to the smaller window boxes and potted groupings of flowers for our home flora.

Herbs, daisies, and begonias do well in most climates with a fair amount of sun and regular watering, but as young professionals on the go, something low maintenance with a big punch is required. The solution – succulents.

This indoor/outdoor plant thrives on extreme heat and little water, is most often ignored by house cats and dogs, and provides lasting color on porches, tables, and patios.


Small, individual varieties are available at major hardware stores, such as Lowe's and Home Depot – at my local store they will even pot yours for free, which is great when you are in a pinch for a housewarming gift. Conversely, planting at home could not be easier with just a pot, cactus blend potting mix, and your succulent.


City arboretums and farmers’ markets are likely to have indigenous species as well, and often have annual or semi-annual plant sales where you can score gorgeous blooms.

Succulents make lovely centerpieces and for some, a major landscape overhaul. For most, they offer a modern aesthetic alternative to your garden gerberas.

*Sample post for ApartmentTherapy.com