The Situation Room

While I was driving the other day I had an epiphany. I’m not entirely sure whether the sunlight hit me in just the right way, or I had the perfect stage of dehydration, or my frustration with driving on the Merritt Parkway spawned such a great idea (that loud sound you hear is me patting myself on the back). Sorry I’ve yet to grasp the power of subtlety. Nevertheless, I thought this would be a good attempt to get people commenting on posts. So for now the aim is to make this post, “The Situation Room,” a weekly stalwart. Each week, we’ll post a new question, usually music related, but in reality it may be tangentially related to anything in the here and now of pop culture. This is a test, responses are required! Actually they’re not, but hopefully we’ll pique your interest just enough that you’ll decide to chime in with your opinion. Unlike my law school classes, all opinions are welcome here!

For this week, I thought we’d try something simple. Musically speaking, what is your guilty pleasure? What is that one artist, song, or album on your iPod or iTunes that makes you cringe when friends see, or you’d be embarrassed to admit you actually like. Even though I like me some JT, Amy Winehouse, Nelly Furtado, and think Toxic (yes that one) has an amazing beat, my answer was not obvious to anyone other than me. But, it was actually surprisingly easy: I have an addiction to the Presidents of the United States of America! No not Obama, Bush, or Taft, but the ones that wrote the American classics “Lump” and “Peaches.” I listen to them at least once a week. Everyone should have more Presidents in their lives. You can never listen to “Naked and Famous” enough! 

So please, offer up your guilty musical pleasure for anonymous judgment by everyone on the interwebs. And if you have suggestions for future installments of The Situation Room, please leave them in the comments.

Looks I Love

A few years ago, former MTV reality star Lauren Conrad launched a high end clothing line. After being on the market for no more than a few months, the line sadly failed. She then came out with a more affordable 'teen' line at Kohl's stores nationwide, which is only okay. HOWEVER, I recently discovered that there is hope for this struggling fashion designer. Lauren Conrad's new line Paper Crown features some trendy basics like leather shorts, silk blouses in blush tones, slouchy blazers, tight cocktail dresses, tiered ruffled maxi dresses, and belted dresses. The prices and locations are TBA but I'm hoping this is the real deal because I'm really digging some of these pieces!

VIA Fashionista

Stress Busters

 Natural Mood Boosting/Stress Busting Remedies

Helping you come out of that ugly funk, one healthy choice at a time 

Everyone has their moments of feeling overwhelmed with life in general. No one wants to feel this way but it is just one of those "funks" that seems hard to shake. A lot of the time it has to do with lack of sleep or exercise- yes people, exercise is a proven mood & energy booster, so don't be lazy! However, what most do not realize is that our diet has just as much to do with our mood as sleep and exercise do. I've compiled a list of foods (with the help of a few nutrition text books, along with Self Magazine and LIVESTRONG online) to incorporate into any meal to help treat those unwanted stressful days. 

High Quality Carbs 

Veggies & Fruits

Brown Rice

Barley

Apples, Pears, Strawberries, Oranges

Sweet Potatoes

Carrots, Peas, Beans
Why?
Not only do complex and whole grain carbohydrates provide fiber and energy, they also help create that relaxing neurotransmitter serotonin during the digestion process.

Soluble Fibers

Oats

Beans

Peas & Lentils

Brown & Wild Rice
Why?
Helps to bring down blood sugar levels by reducing the absorption of sugar into the blood.

Protein

Poultry

Seafood

Tofu

Eggs
Low-Fat Yogurt
Why?
Contributes dopamine and epinephrine, which have the capacity to give the body more energy.  

Foods Rich in Vitamin B12 & Folic Acid

Beans and Greens

Meats, Fish, Poultry, and Dairy

Why?

B Vitamins stimulate the brain’s production of serotonin, helping you relax.

Feeling down? 

Go for foods high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D. Research indicates they can relieve the blues. For omega-3s, try ground flaxseed and oily fish like wild salmon; good sources of vitamin D include fortified skim milk and egg yolks. 

Angry? 

Ease your anger with potassium, an electrolyte that helps lower blood pressure. Bananas, avocados, black beans, corn, potatoes and white beans contain the calming ingredient.

Tired?

If you are constantly tired, it might not be because of a lack of sleep. According to the Centers for Disease Control, iron is an essential mineral in our bodies used as part of hemoglobin to carry oxygen from our lungs throughout our bodies. When individuals have too little iron, they may develop anemia, which can lead to fatigue caused by a lack of oxygen to the body's tissues. Consuming iron-rich foods, including fortified cereals, beans, beef, seafood such as oysters and clams, and leafy green vegetables such as spinach, can help prevent development of anemia.


Cranky/Fatigued?
Water!!!! According to "Psychology Today," another underlying cause of fatigue may be mild dehydration due to a reduction in oxygen-rich blood flow to the organs. Therefore, individuals should consume plenty of water throughout the day--about 8 cups--to prevent dehydration-induced fatigue.

Try incorporating these foods into at least 2 meals a day, the results will surprise you :)

Information via Self Magazine & LIVESTRONG online

Music Review

PRETTY LIGHTS

Another artist I have been meaning to write about is Pretty Lights. Pretty Lights is Girl Talk for those of us who truly appreciate great beats and samples, and can focus for more than a half second (yes, I’m a music snob). While both artists’ music is derived from a variety of samples, Pretty Lights creates much more thorough and thoughtful compositions than the haphazard mash-ups you’ll find on Feed the Animals. Pretty Lights, also known as Derek Vincent Smith, has released 3 albums and 5 EP’s to date. The songs he creates on these albums are just that: songs that keep your attention from start to finish, rather than a soundboard of the 2011 NOW! hits for the ADHD diagnosed. I’m not normally a big fan of electronic music, and let’s be clear that’s what Pretty Lights is, essentially a well choreographed, fluid blend of hip-hop and electronica, but I have become an avid fan. What got me hooked on Pretty Lights was the first time I heard the After Midnight mix from his NYE 2009 show. A 10 minute long compilation of the Allman Brothers Band’s “Midnight Rider,” Eric Clapton’s “After Midnight,” and one thumping beat, the song sets the stage for what Pretty Lights’ is all about. It moves in and out each sample, then to a beat driven by sounds akin to lasers from a science fiction movie, and back again, all the while keeping the listener captivated. Through samples and his own originals, Smith creates serious grooves and powerful, danceable beats that can keep your heading nodding for hours. During his live shows Smith mans his computer setup, while Adam Deitch joins him on the drum kit. What makes Pretty Lights even more appealing is the fact that all of his music is available for free download on his website (feel free to donate to the cause though). Check out some of the live videos from YouTube linked below, it makes me want to grab my glow sticks and rage all night. I would suggest individual tracks to listen to, but to be honest, you should download his albums and listen to them from start to finish.

More to come soon, but for now see you where the water tastes like wine…

Sneak peak:

Pretty Lights Website 

&

Playlist

Smile...It's Your Best Look

I am often amazed by the kindness of strangers. I will admit it throws me off at times. Something as simple as an unsolicited, but energetic, smile from a person at a grocery store or coffee shop makes any day a happier one.

Smiling Facts: 

Forcing yourself to smile can boost your mood: Psychologists have found that even if you're in bad mood, you can instantly lift your spirits by forcing yourself to smile.
It boosts your immune system: Smiling really can improve your physical health, too. Your body is more relaxed when you smile, which contributes to good health and a stronger immune system.
Smiles are contagious: It's not just a saying: smiling really is contagious, scientists say. In a study conducted in Sweden, people had difficulty frowning when they looked at other subjects who were smiling, and their muscles twitched into smiles all on their own.
Smiles Relieve Stress: Your body immediately releases endorphins when you smile, even when you force it. This sudden change in mood will help you feel better and release stress.
It's easier to smile than to frown: Scientists have discovered that your body has to work harder and use more muscles to frown than it does to smile.
It's a universal sign of happiness: While hand shakes, hugs, and bows all have varying meanings across cultures, smiling is known around the world and in all cultures as a sign of happiness and acceptance.
Smiling helps you get promoted: Smiles make a person seem more attractive, sociable and confident, and people who smile more are more likely to get a promotion.
Smiles are more attractive than makeup: A research study conducted by Orbit Complete discovered that 69% of people find women more attractive when they smile than when they are wearing makeup.


 Today you should allow yourself at least one smile to a stranger, they might be in great need of it :)

photo via here info via here

Looks I Love: Pants & Pumps

 After some trend-stalking, I found that highhigh, unconventional looking heels paired with skinnyskinny, earthy-colored pants are the items to get your hands on right now. Jeffrey Campbell is the quintessential outrageous shoe designer with hundreds of fun, flirty, edgy heels that make your jaw drop to the floor. Free people also hosts some great shoes that will take you a littttle bit out of your comfort zone, but hey..you only live once! Anyway, check out some of my favorite looks below! And remember, making a statement is the whole point of fashion! 

Sets 1 & 2 Free People  

Set 3 Gap  Set 4 Bloomingdales

Sets 5 & 6 ASOS 

Valentines Day Photographed

Images via pinterest

Another Dose

ANDERS OSBORNE: A severely UNDERAPPRECIATED musician

I’ve been meaning to write something about Anders Osborne for a while now. Born in Sweden, Osborne left home at a young age, traveled the globe, and luckily for us eventually settled in Louisiana. If you listen to his music you can clearly hear the influence New Orleans has had on his songwriting. Although he hails from Sweden, you’d never know. The beard, the voice, the slide playing and heavy blues riffs, and songs filled with horn sections all make you think Anders was born and raised in the Crescent city. In fact, I think it was preordained and he was destined to grace Nawlins with his gifts.  Anyways, Osborne is a hidden gem, a diamond in the rough if you will. Only those addicted to finding new and previously unheard of musicians have probably heard his name (and I’m betting even fewer have actually listened to his music). If you have, you must have laughed at us all since we had no idea what we were missing. Anders is one of those musicians who’s had his songs featured in movies, and had them recorded by other mainstream artists, but still hasn’t garnered widespread popularity himself. His songs take three different roles: some are infectiously happy, make you think of warm summer days and cold beer Others just make you want to rock. And others are softer songs which show off his guitar playing ability and his talent for writing lyrics you can personally connect to. I’ve never seen Osborne live, but from what I’ve heard, read, and seen in video clips, I won’t be missing him the next time he tours here in the northeast. There are some youtube links below of varying quality you should check out, but make sure to listen to “Got Your Heart,” “Pleasin’ You,” “Summertime in New Orleans,” “Lucky One,” “Back on Dumaine,” and so many others.

That’s all for now, I’ll see you where the water tastes like wine…

Got Your Heart (live)

Pleasin’ You

On the Road to Charlie Parker

Stoned, Drunk and Naked (with Bonerama)

Meet Me in New Mexico

Echoes of My Sins

Summertime in New Orleans

For those who want to delve deeper, the Anders Osborne youtube playlist:

Playlist

Valentines Day Splurge

Every year becomes harder and harder to shop for that significant other, which is where creativity comes into the picture. This valentines day why not try a New York City Hot Air Balloon Ride? This hour long adventure takes you on a trip above the buildings in the greatest city in America. They offer 'romantic' rides and you can also pack a little picnic inside the basket! This is the perfect gift to wow your special someone (as long as they are not afraid of heights..). Check it out at New York City Hot Air Balloons. :)

Looks I Love

This look is no surprise to anyone who knows me; I am obsessed with boots and blouses. Boots can create a classic, comfortable, casual look while still keeping it fashionable and trendy. Blouses are also great because you can dress them up or dress them down. Boots and blouses are a key component to any girls wardrobe, so here are a few of my favorite pieces!

1. Lunar Cycles Top & Steve Madden Boots

2. Caprice Blouse & Ariat Boot

3. Silk Blooms Blouse & Veronica Boot

4. Slung Silk Blouse & Sharon Boot

5. Peach Asymmetric Blouse & Steve Madden Boots

6. 3.1 Phillip Lim & Valor Boot

Natural Beauty: 5 Ingredients to Make You Look and Feel Radiant

So, these past few weeks have been exceptionally cold and dreary, I really miss the sun! Lately whenever I get out of the shower my skin feels dry and lifeless, so I needed to do some research for a quick fix. I also wanted to come up with something that not only made me look better, but feel better as well! I came across a list (via Natural Health Magazine) of 5 natural ingredients commonly used in Asia that help give a little boost of radiance inside and out. 

Bamboo

Bamboo benefits: It contains silica which acts as an emollient, softening skin and making it look smooth and radiant.

Try this: AHAVA Mineral Botanic Bamboo & Pansy Velvet Cream Wash

22$ Ahava.com

Giovanni Body Care Hydrate Body Lotion, Bamboo Birch

10$ Amazon.com

Wasabi

Wasabi actually has anti-bacterial benefits which is why it is a popular Asian facial cleanser ingredient. It is also said to have anti-aging effects, stimulating collagen synthesis, giving skin a plump health appearance.

Try this:  Fred Flare Wasabi Lip Balm

8$ Fredflare.com

Lather Cucumber/Wasabi Hand Wash

12$ Lather.com

 Green Tea

 Of course we have all heard this before, but nevertheless it is an amazing ingredient. Green tea leaves are bursting with anti-oxidants which combat signs of aging and inflammation. Make sure you load up on this ingredient, only using a little will not have major effects!

Try This: Alba Botanica Green Tea Eye Gel

18$ Albabotanica.com

John Masters Organics Green Tea & Rose Hydrating Face Serum

26$ Johnmasters.com

St. Ives Green Tea Cleanser

6$ Stives.com

Rice

Rice? Yes rice. Rice bran oil is very rich in phytic acid - a B vitamin that helps to improve blood circulation and cell turnover. It is a popular ingredient in body washes and moisturizers.

Try this: Perlier Risarium Black Rice Platinum Face Cream SPF15

45$ Perlier.com

Fresh Rice Dry Oil

48$ Fresh.com

Yuzu

This Japanese fruit has many of the same properties as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. It is used in many beauty products because not only does it have an extremely high content of Vitamin C but it also smells amazing. It is actually sometimes used as a mood booster and energizer by Aromatherapists.

Try this: Illume Happiology Yuzu Mint Energizing Body Wash

18$ illumecandles.com

Shikai Yuzu Hand and Body Lotion

8$ Shikai.com

Molton Brown Enlivening Toko-Yuzu Bath & Shower

28$ moltonbrown.com

Via Bamboo Wasabi Rice Yuzu Green Tea

Info via Natural Health Magazine

Inspiration

"Real generosity toward the future lies in giving all to the present.”

-Albert Camus

via

Restaurant Review: Boston's South End Treasure

The Franklin Cafe

278 Shawmut Avenue
Boston, MA

I recently dined at this wonderful Boston restaurant thanks to my boyfriends brother and sister-in-law. They claimed it was their favorite restaurant in Boston and we had to try it. Of course we believed them - personal recommendations are always the way to go when picking a great restaurant - but we did not expect the food to be this outstanding! I ordered the Pan-roasted Organic Chicken in Coq au Vin Sauce, with a Smashed New Potato. The meat was perfectly tender and juicy, the skin crisp and golden, and just the right amount of sauce to give the chicken exquisit flavor. I do not think I can ever say "chicken isn't for me" ever again after that meal. 

Mike ordered Classic Steak Frites, which sounds simple enough, yet somehow this restaurant managed to pull off the best french fries I have ever had in my life. The portion of steak and fries was perfect, especially since most restaurants these days pile on the fries so you are basically forced to eat all of them - because let's be real, who can look at a pile of crispy salty french fries and only have a couple...

All in all, the Franklin Cafe was a total success and I would go back in a heartbeat. Right before we left, Mike made a comment, something to the effect of  "I could come back here a lot, however many times it would take me to try everything on this menu, it all looks AWESOME" 

So there you have it, a classic Boston treasure! Now go check it out!

Music Review: MRK Edition

Here it is! Mike Kennedy's top 3 favorite albums, take a look and soak it all in because these albums rock!

1)    Black Keys – Brothers (2010)

Undoubtedly the best album that came out in 2010 (and this is not opinion, it’s fact). Up until this album the Black Keys, comprised of Dan Auerbach on guitar and vocals and Patrick Carney on drums, remained a surprisingly well-kept secret.  They put out raw, powerful blues with soulful lyrics, gritty guitar licks and Carney’s pounding of the skins. With “Brothers,” the duo added a bassist and keyboardist to create a fuller sound. Check out “Howlin’ For You,” which combines gritty guitar riffs, Auerbach’s soulful voice, and a great danceable beat. Also listen to the Danger Mouse produced “Tighten Up” and my personal favorite “Ten Cent Pistol.”

The Black Keys

2)    Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros – Up From Below (2010) 

Up from below is another fantastic album released this past year. This traveling hippy commune led by Alex Ebert, have recently had several of their thrust to prominence through commercials. While you may not recognize the name, everyone surely recognizes their hit single “Home,” a duet between Ebert and band member/girlfriend Jade Castrinos.  The inventiveness and beauty of this album as a whole, however, is refreshing. There are no pretensions behind this album, just a shared desire to make good-feeling, great music. For my favorites, check out “40 Day Dream” and “Om Nashi Me.”

Edward Sharpe 1

Edward Sharpe 2

3)    Ry Cooder – Paradise and Lunch (1974)

Don’t be alarmed by the creepy picture of Ry here, the music contained within is anything but creepy. If any album can make you think you’re on a beach in Hawaii, while simultaneously giving off a Texas honky-tonk feel, this is it. Weird I know, but glorious trust me. Some of the tracks may even be recognizable to you (see “Tattler” and “It’s All Over Now”). The California native is well known to guitar enthusiasts as an aficionado and slide guitar wizard, but unfortunately he’s still not a household name. If you’ve never heard Ry play, grab your favorite drink, lie down, and turn the volume up real high. My favorites: “Fool for a Cigarette/Feelin’ Good” and “Ditty Wah Ditty”

Ry Cooder 1

Ry Cooder 2

Photos Black Keys Edward Sharpe Ry Cooder