2 for Tea and Tea for 2

Anyone who knows me knows that I sadly gave up coffee about 3 years ago and embraced the tea world with little to no regrets.  I did it for my health, but I had no idea how much I would fall in love with tea culture.  I love the blends and the medicinal benefits and the accessories.  In fact, funky tea pots, cups and saucers are some of my favorite collector items.  These Alessi flower cups are new on my lust list.  They are pretty and femenine, modern and functional.  I think they certainly deserve a place in my spring  table decor.

Une Table Pour La Solidarirté

Group SIDA website

Go ahead and make your reservations.  On the 8th of June many fantastic restaurants in Geneva will come together to support the Group Sida association.  20 restaurants will host tables with 20 celebrity guests (of which I am familiar with 0).  Anywho, 25% of the bill will go straight to the ogranization to support programs and research.  You also have the possibility to win dinner for 2 at one of these fab restaurants if you take a photo of yourself with the guest celebrity of the evening and post it on the event's facebook page.  (I mean weren't you going to post it on facebook anyway?)  All in all it sounds like a win-win kind of event.  Great food, check.  Celebrity guests, check.  Supporting a good cause, check.  Maybe a couple free meals, check.  

La Rue Est à Vous

 

La Ville Est à Vous

One thing I love about Switzerland is the sense of community.  People really embrace public hoidays (i.e holiday police who actually go to offices to make sure no one is working and hand out large fines if they find people) and they come together (i.e other people will call the police on you if you accidentally scratch someone's car while parking ---I would know.....) to celebrate holidays and little government assigned fêtes.  La Ville Est à Vous is no different.  Yesterday was my hood's celebration complete with brocante, junk sales, food tastings, people advertising their local services, and african dancing.  I was surprised how people really embraced the beautiful day by participating with their own goods and services as well as those who visited in large numbers.  It's worth visiting at least one of these, and there is one nearly in every neighborhood, so check out the link above for the city schedule.  

Probably The Coolest Toaster Ever

How freaking cool is this toaster???  I mean, I'm not even really that into toasters..or toasting things really, but this thing by the Inventables Concept Studio (https://www.inventables.com/Product/ConceptStudio.asp?i=11&t=7) is hot.  It's not fully functional yet, still in prototype phase, but when it is, I am sure it will be a hit!. Transparent Toaster

Real Link Between UV dryers at Nail Salons and Skin Cancer- A Warning

UV Nail Dryers- Skin Cancer/Aging Article

This article totally bummed me out because god knows, I enjoy a good beauty pampering. I mean first it was tanning booths, though I am sure that chemical spray that they use for spray tans is just as toxic...  Now I can't even let my nails dry without worrying about UV damage!  Not sure I wil stop anytime soon, but at least I am informed!  and so are you!

Runners World Approved Summer Smoothies!

Great Post-Run Summer Smoothies
Summer is here, and what better than a smoothie for a post workout treat?  Here are some recipes that will make you feel less guilty for indulging-- and even a few tips about how to add some nutritional power.

Safari Chic

Later this September, I will be embarking on a safari of the Masai Mara in Kenya, which has inspired me to look at my safari wardrobe options.  While this little number probably wont cut it as far as mosquitos and such go, but I have to say, it is quite cute!  Maybe I can use it on a little urban safari..like people watching at the Paquis...

[Dress by Paul & Joe at www.net-a-porter.com]

Women Runners! Why you should go ORGANIC

http://www.runnersworld.com/article/1,7124,s6-242-300--13505-0,00.html?cm_mmc=women-_-2010_05_26-_-women-_-ARTICLE%3a%20A%20Natural%20Choice

3h'rs from Geneve is a little place called Italy...

Last weekend we went to Vicenza, Italy for the international jewelry fair.  We were blown away by what an amazing place northern Italy can be for a weekend getaway.  From Geneva, Vicenza is 5 hrs, with Milan exactly in the middle. So, you can leave Friday afternoon, stop for dinner in Milan, and then carry on to Vicenza for some rest.  If you do make it to Vicenza, I highly recommend Villa Pasini.  It's a fantastic bed & breakfast set in the hills overlooking Vicenza.  It's run by a lovely american woman called Cynthia who is married to Aldo, a well known architect/artist.  The villa is lovely and Cynthia and Aldo know all the places to go for everything.  Aside from Vicenza being a great little gem of a city to visit, it is close to many neighboring cities that are also well worth a visit: Padova, Venice, Milan, etc...I can't wait to return for a longer stay. 

 

Julien- Restaurant/Bar.  The IN place to be in the city.  Luckily Cynthia planned ahead for us and made reservations for the our first night there.  The place was packed and as it was the weekend of the Vicenza Jewelry show, there were many people in town.  At one point, 2 women in a super obnoxious red ferrari pulled up and parked outside the restaurant (clearly a rented car) then they walked inside and wereturned away because they did not have reservations.  Then they went back to the car and one of the girls couldn't figure out how to open the door.  Very funny!

This was my first time to visit the Vicenza Jewelry Fair and I was pleased.  It's not huge compared to some of the other large shows like JCK or Bijhorca, but I really enjoyed it.  There were lots of fine jewelry brands represented with beautiful designs dripping with diamonds, but unfortunately the designer jewelry section was miniscule.

Pippo Perez was showing in Vicenza and I LOVED these 'good girl' 'bad girl' wings.  there are several other styles but I think these are great.  Her Jewelry is edgy but still very funky and wearable. 

The last night we ate at Trattoria ai Cibeli.  It is owned and run by a husband and wife team that make DELICIOUS home cooked meals.  It's like being a guest at their house.  Every single thing from the freshly prepared pasta to the cooked aubergines and courgettes, Just don't be in a hurry because the owner likes to take his time.  

Etiquette was easily one of my favorite little boutiques that I have been to recently.  Lots of luscious fabrics, interesting cuts, and lesser known brands that are feminine and whimsical.

Majestic Paris is one of the T-shirt brands carried by Etiquette.  The shirts are made in a variety of cuts and shapes with cotton so soft, it's ridiculous. The minute you try one on, you will understand. They just feel so good!

Yes.  There is a Botega Veneta Outlet store in Vicenza (where their headquarters is based)  It can really be hit or miss, so cross your fingers when you go. 

If you want to pop on over to venice for the afternoon prepare yourself for a serious parking extravaganza.  Forget Palazzo Roma or Tronchetta on the main island.  Go to San Giuliano which is before you cross the venice bridge.  Park there and have them ferry boat you over.  It's a great little boat ride in the fresh air and sure beats arriving stressed out after waiting at least an hour in the parking lot line.  Only bummer is that the last ferry out of the city is at 7pm and if you miss it, you have to take a taxi at 150 euro.  So either sleep on the island, or make dinner reservations somewhere else.  

Want to get something crafty or authentic for a souvenir from Venice?  Well porcelain masks, and murano glass just isn't my thing.  However, the hand crafted letter stamps and wax stamps are definitely cool.  

Highly recommended by locals for great atmosphere and superb food.  

Finally, we made a quick stop in Milan for lunch on the way back to Geneva and had a little lunch at a place called Da Vinci Ristoranti. it was great!!! it is just of Via Buenos Aires on a quiet leafy street.  We sat on the terrasse on a warm, lovely day.  The food was excellent and made with fresh ingredients.  Also, the service was very good and friendly, which was very refreshing after a rough encounter with a retail sales lady just before lunch.  I definitely recommend Da Vinci for lunch or dinner.  

Bijoux Bijoux Bijoux

I am a very happy girl.  No, not just because the sun has broken through the clouds, but because tomorrow I will be on my way to a lovely little B&B outside Vicenza, Italy.  The reason for this excursion is a  large jewelry exhibition called Vicenza that is mean to be one of the biggest and best seasonal shows in the world.  I al looking forward to seeing innovation as well as pure sparkle fablous-ness...yes I know that's not a word.  I will be choosing some of my favorite designers, trends and interesting tidbits from the area and report back next week!

Top Secret

About a week ago, I stopped in at YSL in Globus to pick up my favorite mascara Faux Cils.  Even though this post is not about Faux Cils, let me just say, it is THE BEST mascara out there.  I will perhaps explain why in a future post.  Anyway, while I was there, the sales lady started talking to me about Touche Eclat, which I have written about previously and is a new found love as well.  She also gave me a tester of Top Secret Make Up Primer, which is meant specifically for people with shiny T-zones, or those who want to minimize pore.  Let me tell you!  This stuff is amazing!!!  It made my skin incredibly smooth, which makes my makeup look natural and flawless.  I don't know much about YSL makeup, but the 3 things I have tried- Faux Cils Mascara, Touche Eclat and Top Secret Primer, have changed my life! Just try it!

Emmanuel Goes to Dinosaur Land

One of my favorite things to do to feel connected to my homeland is to download seasons of my beloved American TV shows. 30 Rock has got to be at the top of the list, up there with the now-off-the-air Arrested Development, Grey's Anatomy, Glee and Gossip Girl. Don't judge my intelligence level by the shows I watch! It's pure escapism!! Moving on...30 Rock's most recent episode Emmanuel Goes to Dinosaur Land was probably one of the most unexpected, funniest 30 minutes of my life. I made the mistake of watching it at my desk on my laptop while having lunch and about miway through, Tracy Jordan said something ridiculous and quinoa, broccoli and tofu went flying! It was messy! I highly recommend! It's better if you are familiar with the show, but I am pretty sure it's laugh out loud funny to newbies as well. I just love that Liz's ex hot boyfirend has hooks for hands!!!! hahaha I am still laughing!

Why Go Organic?

I am a Bio adovcate. I admit it. I'm not walking around in Birkenstocks or anything, and god knows I like a good day at the spa followed by my 5 inch Loubies at a posh bar. However, on the whole, I am a purist. Or at least, I try very, VERY hard. Here is why http://www.rodale.com/organic-food-benefits

ASOS how I love thee

I was having a little look-a-roo on my favorite shopping websites today and found something that was particularly noteworthy on www.asos.com They have come out with a new line they call 'ASOS Black Label' I LOOOOOOVEEEEE I want it all. Right now. And, I would like to create events worthy enough to wear these new beauties. It's very floral, femenine and dreamy. Everything that I am interested in protraying as a designer right now. In fact, my jewelry line Lindsey Marie (www.lindseymarie.com) would be the perfect compliment to these darling dresses.

Lindsey Marie to Exhibit in Bijorhca's Eclat de Mode GOLD Sector

NEWS NEWS NEWS! September 3-6 I will be exhibiting my line of jewelry Lindsey Marie in Paris, at the grand Bijorhca Eclat de Mode Exhibition. This season, they have added a sector called GOLD to show designers who use fine materials. I am very happy to be accepted to exhibit in this show and I just can't wait to show eveyone my new line Jardin des Fleurs which is a delicate, romantic, ultra femenine line which utilses my signature keshi pearls along with a melange of rough cut gemstones such as ruby, amethyst, emerald, sapphie, tourmaline, and the list goes on. The pieces are meant to feel like little treasures on the skin and the feedback I'm getting is that it is a success. I love this line and can't wait to have it's debut in Paris in September 2010. For more information see www.lindseymarie.com

Urban Bio à Plainpalais, Yippeee!

If you don't already know, I am a huge proponent of all things organic, or as they say here Bio. I have personally experienced an overwhelming beneficial change in my own health and well being as well as that of my family since going organic (and then subsequently nagging everyone I love to go organic as well until they couldn't fight me anymore). While Geneva doesn't have a Whole Foods, it does have Urban Bio: A well named urban alternative to the vast walmart-like aisles of my beloved American organic grocer Whole Foods. Urban Bio is large by Geneva shop standards, it has a solid and inspiring array of products and it has quickly become one of my favorite places to pick up my organic and specialty foods, body, and house-related treasures. It get's better! They just opened up their 3rd store in my neighborhood! Yes, that's right! Plainpalais just got a little more chic with addition of the new Urban Bio on Rue Jean Violette 3, 1205 Genève. Just off of Rue de Carouge, across the street from Migros. Be sure to watch for many of my bio recommendations that you can find within this lifestyle haven in future posts!

Swimsuit Season

There are many, MANY great things about living in Geneva, Switzerland. Mountains, fresh air, small town vibe with most of the important big city things. But, when it comes to shopping. One word: bleh! Now, if you are in the market for a $100,000 watch, you will have abundant selection. If you are looking for a Top Shop, Forever 21, etc... You wont find it here. There are always the staples like Zara, H&M and Bon Genie if you are in the mood to spend. There just isn't that endless array of choice that is such a beautiful part of the American lifestyle. So,when it comes to swimsuits, you might as well just wait for your next trip abroad than to try to find something interesting here. Although, a fantastic alternative to idle day-dreaming of the perfect bikini, is to have a little look at www.victoriasecret.com and YES they do ship abroad. One of the best things about VS is that their bikinis fit real women's bodies perfectly, they are made well and wont fall apart after one trip to the beach, and the selection of styles is seemingly endless. I am particularly interested in this leopard 'monokini' it's like a bikini with an interesting shape, and it criss-crosses in the back. Very cool. Here are also a few others that I think are super cute. My mission is to find a well rounded bikini wardrobe that will accompany me on my exotic Seychelles/Denis Island getaway later this summer. Victoria Secret looks like my best bet unless I am able to make a quick shopping trip to Milan or Paris...I'm sure I can work something out.

Dry Hair Miracle Oil

I have a history of crazy hair styles. In the last 5 years, I have been blond twice, red twice, and brown numerous times in between. It's been long. It's been short. It's been layered, And there have even been bangs...maybe twice. I guess it was a phase I was going through. Unfortunately, my curiosity for hair color has taken a toll on the health and shine of my hair, and I know many other women have been there. I have searched everywhere for a remedy: L'Oreal, Garnier, Pantene, but to no avail. Those drugstore brands worked great before the the massacre on my hair ensued when I was around 18 and decided that my naturally dark brown/black hair should be platinum. Luckily I found PHYTO which has helped dramatically. I use their shampoo, masque, leave-in conditioner spray and phyto 9 daily moisturizer. However, recently, I believe I uncovered the holy grail of hair products: Furterer's Karité Intense Nutrition Oil. After using it, it's like the damage never happened. You just spray it on dry hair and let it set in for about 10 mins before jumping in the shower then continue with the normal routine. For even better results, Furteres's website gives you a routine specific for your hair http://www.renefurterer.com/common/0,4320,12981751_15228569_0_en_US_342343890,00.html?vid=15228467

Waxing. Where to go.

Photos from www.yvesrocher.ch. For all the new ladies to Geneva, let me save you some time...and tears...Best wax in town is at Yves Rocher. Better yet, the prices are comparable to he US. The quality, cleanliness, and service is fantastic too. In case you don't already know, Genvea is full of hit and misses as far as beauty services go. When you find one that is solid and doesn't cost an arm and leg, consider yourself lucky. I have horror stories!!! One of which deals with the subject of waxing when I was ill-advised by to try a very nice American-brand spa/salon (I wont name andy names)!. After being completely butchered and unable to walk for at least several days (not to mention ridiculed en français by the esthetician) I dedicated myself to finding better. I found it. Take my word.

Summer Shoes Mean: Pedicures, Pretty Sandals and Pain...In The Feet That Is...

Photo Care of www.sofftshoe.com. While I haven't quite retired my rain boots this season (yes, I am still complaining about the rain), I have dabbled a few times in my much more exciting area of the shoe wardrobe: SUMMER SHOES!! I just feel like it's such a double-edged sword- so many fun, sexy options in the summer, yet sooooooo many blisters and aches and pains. I don't seem to have the same problem with my winter boots. Probably because of the 3 inch socks I wear to keep out the Swiss cold. Alas, after searching near and far for cute flats/sandals/low heels that I can both be excited to wear as well as not want to put band-aids all over my feet, I have finally found the pain-free shoe mecca. It's called Sofft. Unfortunately, the only place I have found them is in America, but they do have a website that ships internationally (believe me, it's worth it especially because you could easily spend three times the cost of a pair of Sofft shoes at Navy Boot without the guaranteed comfort). The name Sofft isn't a joke, these shoes are marshmallows for your feet. They styles certainly are not Gina, but for the everyday, wear with a cute-casual outfit, they fit the bill. Especially if your days tend to be like mine- running like a crazy person all over the city on foot.

After The Rain...Pure Bliss

Today I was fortunate enough to bypass the continually nasty weather outside by spending the better part of a day at After The Rain Urban Day Spa. All I can do is rave about what a fantastic hidden gem this is! From the interior design, which is quasi posh night club to the freshly prepared juices (Mango and Strawberry pressed by the gods I am sure) to the friendly estheticians who do fabulous work, the entire experience is Spa-on, pardon the pun... They have many packages including some for couples, which looks to be a very romantic and pampered experience for two. I was one, and liked it just as well =) A friend of mine tells me that when you go as a couple, they prepare a private room with a jacuzzi to top off the treatments. One of my favorite little bits was the hammam, which is nearly pitch black due to the black stone walls, however little star-like lights shine from above and transition into a variety of colors while you can lay back and detox your pores in mystical anonymity. After The Rain is really the best place to be on a rainy day...or well anytime really...

Pretty Peonies

Photo from Vogue Flowers via Australia Entertain
I was walking through my local Coop today and I was very happy to see the recent addition of my favorite flower! Peonies! They are so fluffy and pretty. I don't think that a more feminine flower could even exist. I guess that's why they are such a common (and well chosen) bridal flower for spring weddings. Shame for all those fall brides...According to www.theflowerexpert.com, Since ancient times, Peonies have been regarded as the symbol of wealth, luck and happiness. Peonies always represent elegance and poise. Additionally, The Japanese name for the Peony, Ebisugusuri means medicine from China. In traditional folk medicine, Peony root was used as a treatment for menstrual cramps, asthma and convulsions. I wont be grinding down any peonies with a pestle and mortar any time soon for those unfortunate ailments, but I will definitely take advantage of the season and put some fresh peonies on my dining table.

Hello Darling

Solange Azagury-Partridge's 18kt darling ring is well...absolutely darling! It can be worn with everything and it's a great conversation piece. It's funky but still very stylish. A nice departure from the more commonly used words in jewelry such as 'love' and those infamous chinese/arabic characters that are stamped on funky jewelry leaving the wearer fairly uncertain as to whether their jewelry is inspiring or nonsesical...or even offensive! Without looking gimmicky, the Darling ring in dainty 18kt gold cursive says it all. http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/66211

THE hotel - Luzern

Surprise weekend getaway= awesome The Hotel in Luzern made it even better. This is no ordinary 5 star. It is a seductive, fashion statement hideaway complete with one of the city's most on-trend bars in town. They describe it as "The Hotel – the work of French Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel – is a unique establishment exuding charm and charisma. It offers spirituality and elegance in fusion of contemporary design. No two guest rooms are alike – and each has a tale to tell. They lean away from the familiar and the everyday. The art lies not so much in what is included but in what is left out. Guests are invited to abandon themselves to the inspirational poetry which characterises this sense-awakening boutique deluxe hotel – and to enjoy the genuine hospitality and luxury that this remarkable home-from-home offers." Each room is designed with the influence of international classic cult films. The customer service is great and not only is it host to a fantastic asian inspired restaurant, it is located near other fantastic restaurants and bars that can be found on a leisurely stroll of the area. I wish I had more to say about Luzern, but it was pouring rain all weekend. Thank goodness for the posh bar downstairs.

Un Baiser: Perfect for Any Night of The Week

Recently I had dinner at a friend's house where I was served the most fantastic apéritif! A very sweet red wine called Un Baiser which is part of the Maury family of wines from the south of France. I had come to the dinner believing that I would stick to sparkling water in an attempt to not make a fool of myself, as the dinner was an opportunity for me to meet important contacts. However, one sip of this deliciousness sent that idea of restraint straight out the door. It's lighter than a Port and less sugary than a Sauterne. I'm no expert on wines, but I know what I like when I have it, and I have to say, this one might become a regular in my personal cave.
You can order a bottle to try it out here: http://restocave.com/vins_fenouilledes.aspx?qual=amour01&nomdomaine=CLOS%20des%20VINS%20d’%20AMOUR&nomvin=UN%20BAISER%202006&nomappelation=Côtes%20du%20Roussillon%20Villages&nomvillage=Maury&nomcouleur=Rouge

Louboutins Made for More Than Walking

I'm a big fan of the red soled wonders we all know as Christian Louboutin shoes and I am absolutely thrilled that they have opened up a fabulous multi/level boutique on Rue du Rhone. The shop windows are like visions of my dream-shoe-wardrobe...in this dream there is a walk in closet the size of my apartment with rows and rows of colorful heels (imelda style), outfits organized by designer, and a machine that you can step inside that will make you a size 2 forever. Alas, just a dream. But, the good news is, Christian Louboutin bags this season are just as lust-worthy as the shoes! Take, for example, this lovely white and grey snakeskin bag with chain shoulder strap. Beau-TI-ful! Summery AND Edgy at the same time. But good luck on getting one because they are sold out in most places! Hello wait-list!

Tea is for...

Betjeman&Barton Tea. Most Tea lovers in Geneva (and elsewhere) already know the glories of waking up or winding down to a warm cuppa from the master tea makers at Betjeman&Barton. The flavors are scrumptious and walking into their little store in Carouge is simply inspiring- funny swiss slippers, gold plated tea spoons, artistic wonky tea sets. You can ask to have a sniff of any one of their abundant flavors lining the walls, which is exactly how I came to fall in love with my favorite flavor Paris S'éveille. It's a "Tea semi-fermented : Oolong of China flavoured with chocolate, caramel, toffee, cereal, and sunflower with of course some of toffee pieces. A great tea for breakfat or also for an afternoon tea." It smells like heaven. Not Joking. I have actually been tempted to eat the tea leaves straight out of the tin, but have restrained myself. One of the coolest things about this brand is that it is entirely woman owned and operated. Though it's founders were of the male persuasion, it has since been redesigned by forward thinking women. Thank you for creating possibly the best tea flavor ever!

My Favorite New Makeup Item..(I know it's not new...just new to me)

Believe the Ads. This product is amazing. It's subtle, but the light it ads to the face is well worth the extra 20 second effort during the makeup routine especially if you are going for a natural glow and want that extra ...something. Touche Eclat is that extra something. I got mine at Globus, but I imagine all the YSL carriers in Geneva have them. A beauty pageant coach that I met once while shopping for makeup a few years ago told me that it's in the makeup bags of most pageant contestants and now I know why. Love Love Love.