art can change the world

I saw Denik for the first time when I was browsing a favorite boutique along the Pier in Hermosa Beach. I was grabbed by their aim: help build schools, support an artist. I love what Denik is all about. Education and art are so important to me; they are values that run deep in my family. I love my Ornate Elephant design by talented artist Ben Kwok. It is a famous Denik softcover - it is flexible, gentle, and thin, yet it holds all paper together. I've bought other journals in the past (won't name names!) that try to sell this characteristic quality in notebooks, but the pages simply fall out. I think this idea from Denik is a win-win - you're helping underprivileged schools and getting organized, while promoting a brilliant artist's work. 

My Denik notebook is currently in rotation between grad classes and being my go-to grocery list. I keep it in my work bag because visits to the grocery store usually come right after work, as does school. 

Some other Denik favorites! I had such a hard time narrowing down my choice among these other contenders:

high country tsunami / ice cream swirl / chevron  / all styles $11.95

organizing my desk with knock knock!

Once a year, I treat myself to a Knock Knock Pad - Two years ago, it was a Pro-Con list. Last year, it was a to-do list. This year, it's the Five Days a Week Keyboard Pad. Knock Knock sent me this awesome long pad that serves as a to-do list and weekly planner. This is a space saver, and rests at the base of your keyboard.

I tested it out at work and love how its 15" size aligns with my laptop. It is a colorful accent to my work space! The 5-day + weekend format makes the week seem do-able and visually spaced out.  I am sure that these pages will be increasingly full over the next few days, but I love the little countdowns at the bottom corners. "Can You Taste It?" is my favorite!! Checking those off will be so satisfying throughout the year...

The weekend pad consists of separate weekend sticky notes that are especially fun. It makes looking forward to the weekend even more fun for a stationery lover like myself!

It is definitely more useful in a work or office setting, because it actually gets use. My desk at home is more for personal stuff - blogging, pinterest-ing, and general reading. I really do enjoy using it at work, and have received compliments on it from like-minded people who love a good writing surface. I discovered that Knock Knock also makes a mousepad with a similar format, which will probably be my next purchase when this keyboard pad runs out.

Til then, it's a pretty nice rest for the wrists when typing. If you're in love with Knock Knock as much as me, then sign up for their e-newsletter!! New signups get 20% off your purchase of $50!  



Thanks Knock Knock! Can't wait to see what you come out with next!

ciao, xo

everyday, easy diamonds

I've never been one to wear a lot of bracelets, or pile on bangles that jingle and weigh down my hand. When I use my hands (hello Italian side!) during a conversation or at work, I always feel so noticeable and loud! Although I love the look of many bracelets, I have found a new favorite staple with my new Anjolee bracelet. I particularly love wearing it with my watch, or by itself. It adds such a subtle glimmer of sparkle to my arm, and it is gentle enough for every day use.

Perhaps my favorite detail of this piece is the weightless and lithe chain that allows the real focal point of the bracelet, the five diamonds, to move and shine. The column links allow for effortless flow   and absolutely no jingle! The five little diamonds are beautiful, feminine, and vibrant. I don't wear diamonds a lot, but this piece is so versatile and easy to wear on a daily basis. The column links remind me of delicate fringes of coral - perfect for summer! Their jewelry is custom made, and their collection of diamond wedding bands is fabulous. I am impressed with their quality, clarity, and classic elegance. I love the dose of sophistication my bracelet brings to any look.

ciao, xo

Thanks to Anjolee for sponsoring this post!