There are a few things I would consider my 2016 obsessions: rearranging my home 100 times, color combos such as rose quartz and serenity or blush and olive green, watercolors, palm prints/Palm Springs, annnnnnd PINEAPPLES! Thankfully, the retail industry has satisfied my little heart's desires with an abundance of items inspired by this quirky fruit. 

I bought this Pineapple Maxi Skirt from Ann Taylor as soon as it was in stock at the store. And before you start thinking, "Geeze Elisabeth, impulse buy much?" you should just know that they were selling multiple items in this print (shorts, dresses, etc) and I had the self control to only buy the skirt. SO BACK OFF WITH YOUR JUDGMENT, Judgey McJudgerson! Ahem. 

So I love it! I've worn this baby so many times since bringing it home-despite doubts from others. While it is a statement piece, I've found quite a few ways to wear it with stripes, gray, black, white, navy, cobalt, pink, on and on. I'm still playing with all the looks I can put together. (PS: I'd like to point out that I put my outfit with stripes together before ever seeing the Ann Taylor online image that is basically the same look. So sorry I'm not original, but not sorry that great minds think alike!)  

A little reflection on my love of the pineapple: I can relate to this little guy. Like me, it's skin is a little bumpy and hair always seems to sticking out at odd angles but inside it's sweet or tart (depending on timing), and full of Vitamin C (okay, maybe I'm not full of Vitamin C-but the rest I can relate to). While it may be tough to get through its outer layer it just makes it that much more satisfying when you get to reap the sweet sweet fruits of your labor. It's got an awesome name that makes no sense and is fun to say. The Pineapple is quirky and fun and always gives makes you think of summer, but without the required imagery of picnics or BBQs (I'm looking at you watermelon!). 

TLDR; I <3 Pineapple + I am so glad there are so many fun prints or items with it this year.  

What is your favorite prints or trends right now? Do you also dream of pineapple? Tell me about it! PS: If you have any suggestions of outfits to try with this skirt please let me know! I'd love to try them out. 

My boyfriend and I recently did an all day date in the city that ended with dinner at this little waterfront restaurant in fisherman's wharf called Scoma's.  

We didn't realize it at the time, but it is apparently one of the highest grossing independent restaurants in the nation and a local favorite. To get to it we walked down this little alley that led right to the waterfront with Scoma's restaurant and their fish-receiving station. The wait was so long we opted to claim seating at the bar as soon two seats opened up. We lucked out because I actually think they were the best seats for evening when you can't see the water from inside. We had the prettiest view of the gorgeously designed bar and its alluring lights and wood structures. I was so enamored with the lights I was suddenly sympathetic to the fresh fish served there-I could understand how one could be lured in with shiny bait. 

Scoma's is a family place that has been opened for 50 years-full of history, details, and practiced success. The drinks were classic and well made-reminding you of another era when Humphrey Bogart dominated the screens and everyone's hearts. The food was incredible and the bar staff was very attentive, knowledgable, and accommodating with allergies. We were so ravenous I forgot to take pictures of the food and drinks before consuming them (which should tell you how delicious it was!). I had to borrow a picture from Eater SF to show you one of the dishes we got. 

If you love seafood I would absolutely recommend Scoma's for both locals and those passing through. It is a bit pricey, however, so I would advise going for happy hour specials or special occasions if you're wanting to make an event of it. 

dish photo credit: Eater SF, Patricia Chang

Scoma's SF 

1 Al Scoma Way, San Francisco, CA 94133

(415) 771-4383 

Daily Lunch + Dinner 

Entrees: $15-$40+

I recently was given tickets by Bay Area Buzz to attend We Players' Romeo & Juliet: The Capulet Ball at Impact Hub Oakland. This urban masquerade ball fused together theatrical performances with a formal event. While guests enjoyed the party the acting troupe performed Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet Act I and the Juliet's balcony scene with Romeo. 

Experience: 

Guests were welcomed at the door with a selection of gifted masks to wear, hors d’oeuvres, and an open bar of wine and blackberry mead (my chosen drink of the night). The dinner-theatre-style performance started as soon as we arrived. The actors interacted with the crowds in full costume and character. Romeo became fast buddies with my boyfriend (if you're new to the blog: I call him Mr. Darcy). They shared jokes and poked fun at the Capulets. Once the scripted performance began the actors moved in and out of the crowd, involving the party-goers. It was as if we were the very guests of the Capulet family-witnessing Romeo and Juliet's first encounter. You can see from some of the photos how enraptured the audience was. 

Dancing: 

A few time period dances were taught to us before the main performance. One involved the entire ballroom to participate and loop in and out of our rows. It was a fun way to see all the guests at a fast pace and start dancing without much skill required. After the We Players stopped performing the live band played a myriad music to dance to. My favorite, of course, was the latin ballroom. Dancing makes me feel so happy and alive in a way only few things can. 

Clothing: 

We were encouraged to "go all out" with our evening wear or to come dressed in "late Italian Renaissance" period clothing. While Mr. Darcy and I chose to go the formal route most of our fellow party goers chose the latter or to sport their own unique sense of what I might call, "urban ball wear."

              

We recently went on vacation in LA and were able to spend a day at one of my favorite locations: Venice Beach, CA. I specifically love escaping to Abbot Kinney and the Venice Canals. 

Of the many gems and coffee selections my favorite is Intelligenstia. Never have I had a better cappuccino than at this SoCal treasure. They even know how to make one properly with almond milk (almond/soy/coconut milk can't be steamed at the same temperature as normal milk for espresso drinks else they burn or curdle). The atmosphere is bright and busy. Screenplay writers sit around working madly on scripts while joggers and surfers relax after their morning exertions. It's marries the fast pace of LA with the offbeat and devil-may-care attitude of Venice in perfect union. 

We visited Muir Woods when a couple friends from LA came up for part of the weekend to explore Northern California. There are numerous trails that you can take-depending on your goals and fitness level. Wanting variety we selected attempted to go on the ocean view trail-which was a combination of the red woods, mountains, and views of the Pacific Ocean. However, somewhere along the way we missed the part of the trail leading to the ocean and just went to the mountain/valley view (oops!). No complaints here though. It was stunning. 

I only brought my iPhone to take pictures because I didn't feel like carrying heavier equipment (I do slightly regret this, however. My camera would have done a better job of capturing the majestic wilderness and overwhelming red woods). It was impossible to capture the scale of the trees or even get half of their full height in the photos. 

The hike took a little over 8 hours and it was worth the sore feelings in my calves and glutes afterwards. I recommend you go on a cool but clear day to maximize the views. Great day activity to do with your significant other or a group of friends. 

Tip: Wear good hiking/walking shoes and bring snacks and water. This is a real hike.