CATALINA ISLAND!

Sometimes the greatest experiences in life were never even planned.

I got so many questions from you all when we went to Catalina Island I decided to just jot stuff down here;)

Nana and Papa were tireless caretakers of Hayden while I was working on the Lifetime movie. So, as a reprieve from the LA heat and lockdowns, we jetted off to Catalina, or more accurately - boated! For an incredibly last minute trip to a place none of us had ever been, the excursion will be filed in our memories under “perfect.”  It’s a fabulous little getaway. Much like our trip to the snow earlier this year. I’ve lived in LA over 25 years and have never come down to this island. How this destination slipped though my fingers, I’ll never know. Plus, my dad has always wanted to visit Catalina- next time we’ll go fishing, dad! My earliest memories in life were trips to see my grandparents and extended family. Love that Hayden is making so many memories with his Nana and Papa. Grateful they make so many sacrifices to spend as much time with him as possible.

First things first:

COVID PROTOCOLS

The whole experience was safe from the boat ride on Catalina Express to the restaurants. You are required to wear masks the entire trip on the boat, in public places on the island, or around other people outside of your household. Many, many restaurants on Avalon open for outdoor seating, as well as outdoor activities. Shopping is available at limited capacity.

TRANSPORTATION:

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL: CATALINA EXPRESS worked very well for us. There is a submarine that I plan on taking next time. The VIP space is worth it… you board first and can sit with ample space, but also move about the boat and go outside. It’s about a 45-50 minute boat ride from Long Beach, where we boarded.

Once you arrive: if you cannot check into your hotel right away, or you are only there for the day and want a place to keep some items at different points throughout the day, the luggage check right at the boat dock is invaluable. We learned this a bit late, so don’t make our mistake. They will come drop off your luggage to your destination or pick it up for you upon check out; it’s totally affordable.

EXPLORE

FYI: jumper is sold out, but similar ones linked below. I really wish I had worn white tennis shoes instead of my black running shoes, but I wasn’t the best packer on this excursion.

Now, I’m not super familiar with this place, but our time wondering around was well spent. We walked to the Descanso Gardens passed the stunning Catalina Casino. If you keep walking, you’ll find a full adventure park (zip-lining, etc. I’m DOING THIS next time! It looked safe and fun). Keep going and you’ll find yourself hiking a bit up the mountain where we saw an entire family of deer.

I’ve been told next time I need to check out Wrigley’s Mansion (or the bed and breakfast pictured below here). Also, I will most definitely visit the museum to learn more about the history. Speaking of….

HISTORY

Italized Excerpt from PeterGreenberg.com

After the land changed hands from the Spain to the United States in the late 1800s, it was eventually bought by William Wrigley (of Wrigley chewing gum fame) in 1919, who immediately set out on investing in the island to make Catalina a tourist destination. The small town of Avalon was erected, along with the Casino Ballroom in 1929. The early 1900s was a golden age for Catalina—movie stars flocked to the island to relax and hide away from fans.

Charlie Chaplin fished off his boat, Humphrey Bogart and Errol Flynn would frequent the island, and even Winston Churchill came to fish, famously catching a marlin in 20 minutes. According to Catalina Island MuseumExecutive Director Michael De Marsche, John Wayne “would walk around, wave to the kids, walk into the local eatery or establishment, have a couple of drinks, come out with handful of quarters, and would throw them to the kids, who would dive in the water after them.”

In 1925, buffalo were brought over for the filming of Zane Grey’s THE VANISHING AMERICAN. The crew left the buffalo there and they are now a symbol of the island!

After Pearl Harbor was bombed, the island became a military base for quite some time. It eventually returned to a tourist and celebrity destination. Sadly, Natalie Wood’s drowing off a boat on the coast made international headlines.

EAT

We HIGHLY recommend the Bluewater Grill. It is right on the water and everything we ordered was perfect (and we can be picky!). I could eat their baked fish tacos everyday! We heard Avalon Grille is amazing, but it was not reopened yet.

“M” restaurant looked lovely and I heard amazing things about it as well.

But, you will not go hungry! Restaurants are plentiful and most overlook the Pacific. Maggie’s Mexican will be on the list next time;) Currently, you must eat outdoors (a mandate in Los Angeles), but that works perfectly in Catalina.

GOLF CARTS

Had we planned a bit better, we would have reserved a cart to explore the island. You can rent by the hour and request ones with seat belts (especially fo the little ones!). So, my to-do list for the next trip has started. And there will be a next trip, hopefully sooner than later. We didn’t think to reserve one and they got completely booked!!

Don’t wait as long as we did! If you’re in the area, carve out a day or two and go visit Southern California’s little escape! Yes, it’s touristy, but fun every once in a while. If you have any questions about it, ask away! Also, if you’ve been and have other ideas to add for my next time there, please let me know!

xoxo AAJ

SUMMER DRESSES!!

I HAVE IDEAS FOR YOUUU!!! In the past month, I’ve received so many questions on what I am wearing. I can’t get back to every email or DM, unfortunately, but I can communicate via the blog!

THIS DRESS is kinda genius. The fabric is thick, but not hot or heavy. It balloons out just so to create a slight princess cut (and give you room to eat and not worry!!). And it has POCKETS. Need I say more? It’s definitely on trend with the floral print and cut. I see this dress working for a long time. It’s classic enough to not fall into the “80s grandma curtain print.” I stopped counting after the 10th Dm asking me where to get it when I wore it to Step Up’s Inspiration Awards So…. here you go!! It’s a perfect option for a dressy summer wedding or cocktail party. Btw- the red dress I wore to Step Up’s event last year is on sale in blush for under $32!!

I wish I had spent more time on my hair… but, you know, I’ll do better next time.

I got stopped more than once last time I wore this jumper. It has a cut- out back, wider legs with a tie belt. I feel so put together when I wear it. I added my red Rothy’s last time and loved the pop of color with the outfit.

THE YELLOW DRESS worked well for the boys’ birthday party. And I will wear it all summer. I didn’t think yellow worked on me, but it worked with the cake!! lol I do love a subtle polkadot. This cut works well for a variety of bodies with the slight A-line. AND ALSO…POCKETS and adjustable straps. I promised several people in comments on instagram and twitter that I’d do a blog… I’m doing a full birthday blog, but for now—- here is THE DRESS;)

I posted about this dress recently when it was on sale. I think the sale is over, but I’m posting it again anyway. I have this dress in two colors because I love it THAT MUCH. You’ve seen me in it in white over and over! (Like HERE to the Inspiration awards, HERE on Easter, HERE with leather) I try to change it up with white sneakers sometimes, nude heels or my Rothy’s (like in photo above). Even though the dress is not on sale, it’s still affordable under $90 and no joke- you will wear it over and over!

I know it’s kinda old news now, but I appreciated all the questions about the DAYTIME EMMY DRESS I wore. IT IS BACK IN STOCK and really affordable. The whole look is! It’s a great fabric, but I did WEAR SPANX. Yep, I felt like it helped with my tummy and thighs. It’s no secret that we’ve been trying to have another baby.. I’m now on medication that is known for gaining weight, retaining water, etc. So…. to counteract that for a red carpet, I wear THESE. It might be TMI or overly sharing to let you know that- but it’s the kind of information I appreciate from other people, so I thought I would tell you, too. My strapless bra I planned on wearing didn’t totally work, so I also wore THESE sticky nu-bra type things. (It gives you a bit of a lift if you push those puppies together before you put the stickies on-and with the gentle boning in the dress, it works!).

And the yellow floral dress above is on SUPER SALE under $50! Sizes with all these things so fast, so happy shopping if you’re looking for something special.

And Happy Thursday! Hope y’all are having a great week. My parents arrive tomorrow, so today I’m cleaning! LOL. And getting ready for them while I have a little mini-me undoing the work. Ha.

I’d really like to know if y’all want more fashion type posts like I used to do- with more detail and such. Actually, while I’m here asking, I’d love know overall topics you’re more interested in: food, travel, fashion, parenting, fertility (I have another post I’m working on for that), work stuff, kid stuff, etc.

thanks, Y’all!

XOXO

WEEKEND GETAWAY! Nautically Speaking...continuing my love of STRIPES

Joel, the baby, Oscar (yes, we took the dog!) and I met my sister and her boyfriend this past weekend in Mission Beach. It was a spontaneous decision and ended up being lovely. I think it was really good for us to get away for a bit! There's something about a change of scenery that's good for the soul. Even if we are having a "staycation" for the weekend, I have a to-do list running in the background of my mind. Laundry, clean car, organize this or that. Hayden loved being with Jordyn (my sister) and Cody, being in the pool, looking at all the boats. I love weekend getaways via car. They are more affordable and easier to pack. But, the downside is they end quickly. And Hayden doesn't always sleep as well when he's not in his own crib. Full disclosure, I still haven't finished this Vanity Fair magazine I'm holding. LOL. #toddlerlife

I packed super quickly...a package from Nordstrom had just arrived, so I grabbed the sunglasses and striped shirt out of the box. A couple of posts back, I shared some of my favorites from the Nordstrom sale in a photo. The shirt (with such cute pockets) sold out, but just came back in stock in all sizes. I paired it with wide-leg white pants, but next time I would try for high waisted white jeans like these from the Gap. How cute are they??

I don't think stripes ever went out of style, so to say they are back is silly. But they are everywhere. Along with polka dots (I ordered this polka dot shirt and wore it this past weekend to a different event- will post soon). 

This shirt is classic and affordable. Looks expensive, but only $35, which is a plus. I love the nautical, summer feel. Would be a very cute outfit for July 4th, too. 

I added some bright white, fun sunnies and so glad I did. I got stopped!! Ladies asking where I got them. My favorite thing is to report how affordable they are, "Go order them! They are $14!!" Great sunnies can change a whole look, in my opinion. I appreciate expensive, high quality ones, too, but sometimes it's nice to change it up and not break the bank. Especially while I have a toddler! 

(scroll to the bottom past the pictures for a few quick questions and recommendations)....

Ok... add to the list! What screams summer to you?? I'd add read a good book (or a magazine!). I need a good book, rec, btw! Have you just finished one you'd highly recommend? Promising myself I'm gonna see more beach sunsets, too. I DO live very close to the beach if I can make it out there. And what's the one thing you would pack if you were heading out this weekend? 

xox

AAJ

THE PERFECT SHIRT

Happy Tuesday, everyone. I hope all the moms out there had the best weekend! I was going to save this little blurb for a combined post of our travels to Houston (this was at the Butterfly Museum), but I decided to put it up separately as a quick post because some of you might want this "perfect shirt" that just arrived back in stock in all sizes. I get frustrated when things sell out so quickly!

It's no surprise I'm wearing stripes. I'm a little obsessed lately (see this post HERE). I love the classic and sophisticated look of stripes that offers a collegiate, preppy vibe. It's fun changing things up a bit with one piece. For instance, the knit cardigan I wore in THIS POST offers a completely different vibe, while this striped shirt gives a "casually put together" timeless look. And it's so soft and comfy! I borrowed it from my sister's closet when I was in Texas (thanks, J;) and instantly loved the fit and feel, as do many others if you check out the reviews. (She is a bit smaller than I; this shirt is an extra small. I'm going up to a normal SMALL for my build.) It's tailored, so if you like a roomier feel, go up a size. 

The shirt would also look a tad more professional with a boyfriend blazer. Or dress it down with shorts and converse? Ideas....??

Hoping you are all having a productive week so far... got more posts coming, so thank you for checking in!! 

xoxo

AAJ

Reversible Bomber Jacket: unicorn magic

I am in Houston, Texas right now. The irony of being here even during the warm months?  I still need a jacket. Everyone keeps it SO cold inside, I freeze! So, I usually have something to throw on at all times. I'm not gonna lie, this jacket is amazing...unicorns and stripes!  It was a gift from a sweet friend and I love it, but it's not within my usual price point here. It is pricey.

It's reversible, incredibly comfortable, has pockets and I'm kinda obsessed with both sides of the jacket. Unicorns just never seem to go out of style with me. But, even when you might grow tired of the trend, flip the jacket around and wear the timeless navy and white stripes. (I'm clearly appreciating stripes lately. If you visit my blog, you might remember this post?)  If you're looking for something like this and want to invest, grab it. Alice & Olivia make the best pieces that I wear again and again. 

I'll wear this undoubtedly with white pants, but today, I threw it on with shorts, a white tank and converse that don't even match! HA. As a mom that is constantly bending over to grab Hayden, I'm not all that interested in wearing short shorts unless I'm at the beach. So, I appreciate the longer styles. They're not quite bermuda length, but almost. I can't find these (the brand is MOTHER) exact ones, but I linked some from Nordstrom that are very similar. JCrew also has some very cute white ones this length. I love mine, I just didn't bring them with me here to Texas.

Yes, I still carry my JuJuBe black back pack (it's originally a diaper bag!). I use it on planes and it comes in so handy. It fits my large laptop, too. Today, I actually had that on my backpack and carried my tote with me, too.

I'm laughing at this photo below. I'm at La Madeline. I think it's a southern restaurant (or do y'all know if there are more around the country?). It's one of my favorite places to go for lunch when I'm in town seeing my family. I routinely order the fat free chicken caesar salad. Ok- sorry for the non sequitur! 

My sister said this photo was so cheesy, I wasn't allowed to use it. Lol. Did she mean, like, ever? Or just on social media? Ha... at least you can see how cute the jacket is!

I decided to link a few other bomber jackets at various price points below. Although I have ordered successfully from the sites, I don't own these items. They're just similar pieces I found (that I would totally wear, especially for some of these prices!). 

Headed off to a family outing with Hayden. I wanted to add more to this random fashion post, so hope to add more later today. Just in a rush. Hope you all are having a great Saturday. 

xoxo

AAJ

Stripes. Sunshine. And a Sprinkle.

Forgive my cheesy titles. Sometimes I sound like I'm a kindergarten teacher. Oh well...  The "s" theme in the title is appropriate. I have to share some of my favorite striped fashion for the season (and I WAS in the sunshine at my girlfriend Ali Fedotowsky's sprinkle for her second baby!). 

I'll start by saying Ali's shower was adorable with a "blue jean baby boy" theme. If you followed along on the stories, you saw the gorgeous flowers and place settings. Plus, it was kinda cloudy the day before, so the sun literally came out and shined on Baby Manno for the sprinkle. Awww. I'm sure Ali will share more on her blog soon, too. I'll let you know.

I wanted to wear something theme-oriented, but also something that I just felt comfortable in, too. I picked this blue and white striped fit and flare dress. The exact one is sold out now, so I linked a similar dress in a different shade of blue. For a reference point, I'm in a size 2 in this dress. It's not the most affordable piece I've worn, but I know I'll wear it a lot. This is one of those dresses that works in your 20s and even in your 60s. I'm not kidding! There's always a cute white cardigan to add (the one highlighted is $20!- white or  blue)... If you're looking for something that would work for day events or early evening-- bridal showers, baby showers, concerts, graduations, summer parties, etc.... I just love the classic combination of blue and white.

My girlfriend Willa Ford also had on stripes. I must say, she was the sexier version of stripes! And also on point with the trends right now. I'm loving the cut out, bit of skin here and there. 

And of course, Ali looked beautiful. And no, she really doesn't have a name yet for Baby Manno. But, we all chimed in! And Miss Molly danced out on the beach.  What a doll. She and Hayden are slightly obsessed with each other. And I'm slightly obsessed with Ali's dress! I found the the print in a few other styles, too... take a peek below.

I walked Oscar when I returned home. Joel snapped this picture kinda tongue-and-cheek making fun of me. But, I'm glad because it shows my favorite red flats. I actually wore them the day before, too. You've probably heard me talk about Rothy's. I love that I can wear them to the beach, then wash them when I get home (I air dry them afterward, but you can also "fluff" on delicate).   

I'm not quite done with this post, but I'm gonna publish it to go up for now anyway. I have a few more things to add (like I'm kinda into Willa's sunglasses... anyone else wanna know how to get a pair!?)... so stay tuned, I'll return later. Gotta few appointments today.  xoxo

Is oxblood the new black? From Mom-friendly to slightly edgy!

It rained here in LA yesterday. If you follow anyone from this area on social media, we were all talking about it because, well, it's rare. I love it! Rain gives me an excuse to stay in, snuggle with the baby, cook for my husband (this, I'm proud to say, is becoming less rare), clean the house, write some blog posts (quickly while the baby sleeps), etc. I'm grateful I just wrote that sentence because I was feeling very lazy and non-productive, but that makes me feel like I accomplished a few things over the weekend. 

Today is glorious outside. Crisp and clear. Perfect weather for layering with a quilted bomber jacket.  And one in the color oxblood, too. Evidently, oxblood is the new black. The color adds an element of rock and roll, a little edge. I like having an alternative to the usual basic black. I'm wanting to show pieces that you can incorporate with items you already own; an oxblood quilted jacket is a good start. 

You most likely already have leggings or jeans, so adding a bomber jacket could be the new addition.  If you don't have your "go-to" leggings yet, may I suggest THESE for under $30. (Read a post about them HERE. And thanks to those that commented on loving them after they received theirs in the mail!!) I like this jacket because it's NOT my typical brown or black or denim. But, the color is still a great neutral. Who would have thought? Oxblood!? And look how easy it is to take a dressier look down a notch.  How great is it over this dress below? Just enough cool without trying too hard. 

In a previous post, I talked about unexpected elements that add interest to an outfit. Whether it's sparkles dangling from the ears or an open back light sweater, it's fun to add the layers on top of staple pieces. And I'm writing up the holiday guide later, but this scarf I'm wearing in the picture below is on the top of my list for girlfriends, my sister, mom, etc. It's $25 and I could not be happier with it. Love all the color choices, too. 

I kept my outfit pretty "mom friendly" today for an audition and meetings, but it wouldn't be hard to create an edgier look. Add THESE booties with distressed denim and a great tee like this one in white for under $20?? And while doing a little surfing for this post, I got caught up in this whole trend and bought this lip!  Well, another day, I'll be the edgier mom!   

Heading out now... Happy Monday. xo

A FLIRTY TWIST ON THE CLASSIC STRIPE!

It's been three weeks since Hayden was born! I'm writing this at 4:30 am in between feedings. It's ironic that as sleep deprived as I am, sometimes I can't sleep! But, good news for y'all because I'm sharing my latest and greatest find for summer.  

I could not be more obsessed with this top.  It's "on trend" right now with the off the shoulder aspect, however it's also a piece I will wear for years. Stripes are not only slimming, but classic.  I'll wear it with white shorts or skinny jeans for summer events. (How perfect for a upscale 4th of July event? Or even just with flip-flops and shorts for a picnic). I wore it for a photo shoot two days ago and had to keep it/buy it!  The top is cleverly reversible, allowing for several different looks-- it's worth the investment. 

Above is a shot of it tied in the back. It's both classy and flirty with the off the shoulder aspect. If you tie it in the front, with higher waisted pants or shorts, you don't have to reveal too much skin.

ps- comes in solid white, too. And notice the white cuffs if you decide to roll the end of the sleeve up.