Starting the Year off Right

Every year I try to find a more unique New Year's resolution rather than just to lose weight. One year, I cut soda out of my diet completely and now I seldom drink soda (maybe once or twice a year).

My Resolutions for 2011:

1. Learn a creative trade - possibly knitting.
2. Find a new job.
3. Contribute more to my savings.

Sounds generic enough, but these are easier to achieve than to just lose some weight (though I should work on that too). I joined The Sports Club/LA a year and a half ago on the Upper East Side and I was really good about going, but most days I find it really hard to get myself all the way there. My gym isn't conveniently located by my apartment or even on the way home, so usually it is a struggle to get myself there.

I've always wanted to learn how to knit and I think making it a New Year's Resolution will get me there. I'll look into classes in the Spring time when it's much nicer out and I'll be more willing to leave my apartment on the weekends.

As for the new job, it's about time for me to find a position back in the Buying world.

I would like to contribute more to my savings as well. This will be a battle. It's only the second day of the New Year and I couldn't resist the after Christmas sale at Bloomingdale's. I'm starting the year off right with some Chanel and Prada shoes.

The Chanel sandals were on sale from $575 to a nice $199.99. The Prada flats, not so lucky, I purchased them full price. The oversized bow made it the must-have for me. Also, I was grappling with myself on these Chloe boots.. the ones with the straps that wrap and criss-cross around and up the boot. So gorgeous. After trying them on, I realized that they're not as comfortable as I had hoped, so there I saved myself from spending another $800 on shoes. Whew~

Now for the next 363 days, I need to have more will-power.

Love & Luxuries: Cartier

Throughout my life, I've fallen in and out of love with several material items - clothing, bags, jewelry.... but I really fell for and have admired the Cartier Love bracelet ever since I can remember... and I finally got it! I made my first Cartier purchase at the 5th Avenue boutique in NYC. One Saturday afternoon, there I was sitting in the plush velvety chair with my beloved Marcos deciding on the next big decision - if I wanted to purchase the rose gold (a color that is getting more press and trending) or the ever-classic yellow gold bracelet. Prior to, I had already decided that I wanted the 1/2 diamond one (with four diamonds total)... it has the perfect sparkle. I was really torn between rose gold and yellow gold. It wasn't until I put one on each wrist that I realized what a classic-girl I must be, because I knew immediately that I wanted the yellow gold bracelet. I love the rosey hint of pink in the rose gold bracelet, but something about it did not say "BUY ME"! I also considered the fact that when I decide to purchase a yellow gold Cartier or Rolex watch... that the colors may clash and I might actually regret my decision. I've had my bracelet for about a week and could not be happier. I've always been a fan of bangles and bracelets. Others that top my list are the Louis Vuitton and Chanel bangles. I absolutely adore the Van Cleef & Arpels Perlee collection.