When all is said and done, looking back on things, this has been one hell of a year. I have sort of a love/hate relationship with 2009, a sense of sadness that it is over but then again I am ecstatic about it nearing end. The new year is always so fresh, a canvas that is completely blank, allowing one to do whatever they like to begin what may or may not be a masterpiece. With a million colors, styles, emotions, shapes and sizes to consider before making that first move in developing a glorified life-like "portrait".

Transition has been key for me this year, engaging in life lessons daily and learning more about myself then ever before. Sometimes it is so easy to slack off, allow others to pick up after you and be the key motivation in your daily adventures. I on the other hand learned that I am in total control over my world and for the first time I am confidently in control. I will be the one to make things happen and it is not going to be anyone else that gets me where I yearn to be.

Passion for life experiences is what makes me tick. The constant curiosity about what may be around the corner or on the other side of the fence. Not to say it would be better or worse, but merely the curiosity that motivates my fascination for exploration. Looking back I have acknowledged some of my ultimate goals and passions in life. I have distinguished what I love and what I am really good at, as well as what I thought was of interest or what I, in all honesty, really suck at. This year was really all about self-exploration, concentrating more on my surroundings and ambitions then anything else. I gained a new kind of confidence that I think I was lacking in my college life to adult hood transition. It is so easy to stay stuck in a bubble, the bubble that seemed instantly pop the day I got my college degree. As if a diploma was a ticket to the real world and there was no time to get situated for this unknown, unfamiliar ride ahead.

Here's to 2010. Here's to a year of discoveries, adventure, lessons and love. Another year of true friendship, laughs and the occasional tear. ...and most important thank you 2009, which without would not give us the opportunity for something fresh and brand spanking new.

Tis the Season to Look Absolutly Stunning

Who ever said it was okay to toss in the towel and act like a complete animal this holiday season was clearly delirious. By ...like an animal, what I really mean is ...like a pig. Now, if that still doesn't make my point crystal clear, I am merely talking about over indulging at the 5 million holiday parties/dinners you may or may not attend. It is almost like an oxy-moron, so many amazingly stunning looks to explore, try and conquer only to come face to face with crab cakes, pumpkin this, pumpkin that and whole lot of egg nog. I am not saying you cannot have a taste of that scrumptious red velvet cupcake paired with a peppermint martini but please chocolate frosting does not pair well with satin ruffles.

The holidays are a time to look fabulous, period. A time to indulge and feel stunningly gorgeous, just like a princess, all month long. With all the festivities happening simultaneously, it is almost hard to keep it all together while consistently looking effortlessly \perfect. The only solution is to plan ahead, think ahead, know what the hell is going on...ahead. I found myself salivating yesterday as I browsed the various holiday dress collections, embroidered tights, purses, hair clips, statement necklaces...right down to the gorgeous lace lingerie. Everything screamed at me- you need me, want me, how can you be without me...? Cocky? Yes. Mistaken? Not at all.

So although the holidays are about giving, no one said it wasn't okay to give yourself a phenomenal look this holiday season. Indulge in accessories, favor your figure, nourish your wish list and most important have a glorious time.

The heat turned up just enough, a window cracked the slightest bit, a blanket, glass of wine and a movie perfectly describes a priceless winter night. In efforts to stay warm, staying inside is really the only option here in Chicago. I found myself in a euphoric state, sipping my favorite Sauvignon Blanc while watching Sideways. A movie about two men who embark on a week long journey in California's beautiful wine country- In search of wine. In search of women. In search of themselves.

Remarkable how a journey can help ignite the unexpected causing one to learn and embrace more then just their surroundings. This movie proved this all so well, depicting the lives of two middle aged men who realize they have little to show in their lives and ultimately find themselves in search of true identity.

Director Alexander Payne does not disappoint, creating characters you can't help but feel compassion for, mixing comedy with drama, love with lust and a plethora of wine. As if I was magically riding along side these two, sipping my own glass and learning more about myself then ever expected. A visual treat, Sideways takes a step back and to the left from most movies we see and acknowledges the brilliance of a fantastic viewing experience . Forcing its audience to hold up appreciation for good wine, company and adventure. As if we have gotten so caught up with special effects, sexy faces and trivial dialogue that we lose sight of a really good flick.

A simple plot, yet kept me intrigued, constantly fighting with my own emotions. Acquiring a love/hate relationship for the characters all due to their mixed up and mindless behaviors. In efforts to keep from spoiling the movie all together, I would just like to say this movie rocks. It takes you on a journey and uncovers the hidden desires of human nature, those that we hate to admit and camouflage so well. Sideways truly possesses a unique twist and originality much like a vintage red, while leaving a charming and unexpected after affect, just like a cheap, yet tasteful glass of white.

*Let it Sparkle, Let it Shine*

There is nothing wrong with a little za-za-zu to get you through these winter months. You know, a little sparkle mixed with some shine to help brighten up what could be a long, dull winter ahead. Sparkles are everywhere; brightening up the eye, lushing up lips, enhancing the silhouette and jazzing up whatever we may have going on south of the ankle. Here are a few things that caught my eye......