Friends

Okay--Bella needed to make a debut on the blog.  So here she is.

"Thorns may hurt you, men desert you, sunlight turn to fog;

but you're never friendless ever, if you have a dog. "-- Douglas Mallock

Give your favorite friend a hug today, four-legged or not!

Keeping up with the Times

One of my mild and ongoing obsessions this year has been the statement watch.  Whether it be Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs, Timex or Fossil; each piece is just as stunning as the next.  

What to look for?  A piece that is feminine but still maintains the classic menswear look.  I love bling--but best to not go overboard if buying as an investment piece to wear for years to come.  Another striking feature? A mother of pearl inlay. 

As the holidays approach, my mind wonders to hues of gold timepieces and I think I know what to put on my Christmas list...

Braver than you believe, Stronger than you seem

The exact motto that propelled me through college and
the same motto that inspires me today.

Brandwashing

  

A fascinating article in Fast Company was released earlier this month examines the length some well-known companies go to "prime" their patrons for purchase. 

The article specifically highlights Whole Foods' promotional strategy.  What may seem like originally crafted chalk boards next to produce section are actually mass-produced and designed by their corporate office, located in Texas.  How about the watermelons that haven't been unpacked from original boxes they arrived in?  Well, they could have easily directed an employee to unpack the fruit, but what's the point?  They're trying to create perception that the customer is getting their produce "straight from the farm" fresh; adding value to their purchase.  

Perception is an elementary and fundamental marketing concept that many successful companies are emphasizing in their marketing efforts.  The primary goal?  To create a unique experience for the customer and set themselves apart from the competition.

Whole Foods is definitely not the first company to adopt the concept of perception vs. reality --but they are a great example of a company with vision and excellent brand strategy.  They give customers what they want (or think they want): an unforgettable and rewarding shopping experience.

Interested in this marketing concept? Read.

Brandwashed by Martin Lindstrom (2009)

Seasonal Cupcake: Sweet Tooth

Pictured: Pumpkin Cupcakes with Pumpkin Spiced Cream Cheese Frosting

A round of applause to my favorite food blog at the moment; Gina's Skinny Recipes.  This site is perfect place to look for nutritious and low-calorie/fat/sugar recipes.  The recipes featured are health-conscious yet naughty at the same time!

I especially love the "Under $10" recipes.  Each dish is well-photographed and the recipe description is always thorough.  If you are a Weight Watchers follower, all recipes give a PointsPlus value (and old points system value), added bonus!

You do NOT need to be Julia Child to enjoy this blog.  New recipes post nearly every day.  Check it out!

Bon Appetite.

Wisdom

Word. Cheers to getting what you want! Let's take today by storm.

Threadcase

Baby Doll Top $23

Saturday Night Fever Dress $38

Emerald City Clutch $28

I stumbled upon a fun website, Threadcase.  Feminine with a flare of contemporary style--affordable, too!

Bonus: $5 flat rate shipping and free shipping on orders over $50.