Dreamy Balboa Island Beach House...

When I was flipping through House Beautiful over 4th of July I spotted the cutest California beach bungalow. On the narrow streets of Balboa Island, where there are only 1500 homes, is this colorful preppy meets surf chic abode. Hats off to designer Krista Ewart who had a unique eye for patterns and transforming this small space into a dream. I adore Balboa Island, its charming feel, beautiful beaches and boat-friendly nature. I can't wait to return and sing a few tunes at the piano bar again;)

Splendid + Kimmel Kids in So Cal...

Kimmel Kids is hosting a fantastic new event with Splendid this weekend! I will have to live vicariously through those who get to enjoy on the west coast.

The event will be held on June 5th from 11AM to 2PM at Splendid Boutique in Los Angeles. All families and friends are invited to celebrate summertime with cool crafts workshops where you can create original art and unique accessories, while cooling off with tasty Ciao Bella Gelato.

RSVP: splendid@tractenberg.com

Ace Hotel Art Retreat...

The Art of Exchange: Crafting Community Ace Hotel & Swim Club: April 23 & 24, 2010

If you are on the left coast, this is completely worth checking out and sounds like an amazing family retreat! The Art of Exchange is a two day, two night artist retreat for kids and families with interactive art workshops, activities, projects, Saturday movie night with popcorn, poolside bbq, fireside s’mores and Sunday morning brunch. Artist Karen Kimmel will guide art projects like potato prints, miniature gardens, macramé, dioramas, and knitting, with a focus on the reuse and repurposing of natural materials. You can also just do your own thing, hang out by the pool, and explore. Make your resi now!! {images via green wedding shoes and karen kimmel}

Palm Springs Retreat...

Take me away;) Korakia (which I can't seem to pronounce with ease) is the beautiful Moroccan themed Resort in Palm Springs. Over July 4th they are offering rooms from $169 to $249. You can't miss it if you're on the left coast! Thanks to blogger C&C;)

Annenberg Beach House...

Not a member of the elite beach clubs on the coast of LA? Don't fret! The Annenberg Community Beach House just opened it's 5 acre facility to the public in Santa Monica. A splash pad stocked with amenities include a pool, volleyball/beach tennis courts, spaces for events and meetings, beach café, a children’s play area, public art and more. Pool passes are $4 for children, $5 for seniors, $10 for adults – or $24 for a family pass (2 kids, 2 adults).

LA Favorites...

I think I may even love this place more than San Diego. Big statement for moi!

Stay at the Viceroy or Shutters in Santa Monica.

You can do quickie drives through Hollywood and Bel Air - the houses and potential star sitings can be exciting, but overall the areas are overrated. My favorite areas were Venice, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Westwood...perfect to stroll, dine, and lounge.

Breakfast or lunch at Urth Cafe or stroll the local farmer's market in Santa Monica.

Dinner at Lilly's or Primativo, Via Veneto, and Axe.

EATZ...

Awaken your inner chef at EATZ...cooking classes a la West Hollywood. In addition to hands-on instruction, each class includes a five course meal and cocktails or wine.

Next up: Grab your chopsticks for 'Wok the talk' class. The menu: Spring Rolls with Plum Sauce - Sweet Garlic Eggplants- Shitake Mushrooms with Spring Onions in Sesame Oil- Szechuan Style Beef - Steamed Fruit Wontons- Wine: Riesling

Off to L.A...

This will be my last post this week. I'm leaving the cold weather for a few days!

Viceroy Santa Monica...

Lucky!!!! I am involved in a wonderful writing project...details which I will reveal soon! But I am heading to LA this week for a photo shoot and can't wait to strike a pose and then rest my head at the Viceroy in Santa Monica. It looks amazing!

YogaHop...

LA craze, YogaHop offers a celebratory twist to standard yoga by encorporating hip-hop, rock and pop music, and all the energy of a dance party. The result is an East meets West yoga style that’s athletically fulfilling and spiritually soothing. Men and women who practice regularly can achieve weight loss, improved strength, endurance and flexibility. They offer beginner to advanced levels, and mid-day child classes as well - for moms to tote the little ones. Hopefully this catches on and makes it's way to New York soon!