Stella Sola contest giveaway!! Deets at the bottom. + Craft Salon

So for those of you who know me personally, you know that I am not one for going to get my hair done. I'm an anxious person, I've had MANY terrible outcomes and my hair typically grows back the next day anyway so I figure, why bother?

Also, I seriously cannot get fake nails because the length of time I have to sit in the manicurist's chair freaks me out and I start to get annoyed. I can't take a road trip for longer than 3 hours before someone has to get a severe ass beating, and I cannot sit down in a movie theater because I will kick the person in front of me.

Besides my lack of patience, I dislike what happens after going to the salon. My hair grows faster than lightening. So, when I go to get a super cute "short" cut with all different layers and shizz, it is useless. Number one, because I don't know how to style my hair, and number two, because it grows out by the end of the week and looks completely different.

I decided that my waist-long, "bohemian chic" look wasn't quite looking so much "bohemian chic" as it was "white trash". So, I called on the expertise of my lovely friend, Natalie VanKlompenberg at Craft Salon.

Oh heavens! She actually listened to me!! Finally, I was going to have my hair cut and colored and I might, just might look like something resembling my former self before I sat in her chair. She didn't blow off my pleading for only long layers in the back and for some solution to my "fivehead". She was AH-MAZING!!

The salon itself is pretty cool with a warehouse type feel to it. You can also get your nails and toes done along with a plethora of other wonderful treatments. I am so happy with my hair I could cry. Natalie actually listened to my issues I have with styling my hair, my desire to have something in which I could just "wash and go", and she came through!! She even styled my hair with just the blow dryer (no straightening, no curling) just so I could see how easy my new do would be. I freakin' love this girl. And, my hair color must to be amazing. Because the next day when I went into my office, everyone kept commenting on how beautiful I looked "what did you do?" ~ that's such a great compliment, isn't it? You were so ugly before, WHAT HAPPENED????

Seriously, if you are in search of a great hairstylist, please try Natalie. you will walk out a happy camper.

Craft Salon
2307 Dunlavy St.
Houston, TX 77006

Ask for Natalie VanKlompenberg!!

Contest Alert!!!!

Ok, so here is the deal. I have always wanted to be like all those beauty bloggers who get to have contests and giveaways, but I had no clue what to give away, or how to do it. So, I finally came up with what will be the first contest giveaway for Houston Living Guide! (More to come!)

If you haven't been to Stella Sola, you've likely heard of it. It is by far one of the best restaurants in Houston. Recently opened and located in The Heights, Stella Sola is one of the most unique culinary experiences you will ever enjoy. Chef Justin Basye has put together a menu for this restaurant dubbed "Lone Star" in Italian, aka "Stella Sola". The only way to experience this much buzzed about dining experience is to go and eat for yourself!

So, my dear readers, I'm having a "Stella Sola" giveaway!! The winner will receive a $100 gift certificate (I purchased it, not a freebie) from me on behalf of my blog, Houston Living Guide.

Here are the details to enter, contest starts today, March 4 and ends Friday, March 12:

Rules

1.) You must be a follower of this blog, either via facebook fan or email or under the "followers" section in my blog.

Ways to win:

2.) Tweet "Houston Living Guide wants me to eat at Stella Sola! via @Houstonblogger. http://houstonlivingguide.com" Including my twitter name and the link are both imperative so I can keep track. Tweet as much as you want. Each tweet is an entry.

3.) If you are not on twitter, but on facebook, then type in your facebook status: "@Houston Living wants me to eat at Stella Sola! http://houstonlivingguide.com" If you are a fan of my page, you should be able to choose my page name as soon as you start to write "Houston Living' after the "@" sign. It will then alert me that you have put me in your status. Each one is an entry.

4.) If you don't belong to either twitter or facebook, or you want another way to enter, then send a friend to subscribe to my page. If you think a friend of yours is going to subscribe, shoot me a pm or email (danelle@houstonlivingblog.com) to let me know their name. If they fan me or subscribe, that will be considered another entry.

You have 3 ways to win. However, detail #1 is important, otherwise none of the entries count. Please reply to this post with any questions and good luck!!

On Friday, March 12, I will put all entries into a pot and pick a winner. The more entries you have, the better your chance of winning!

The winner will be emailed the gift certificate.

Good luck and good eating!!

Chatters and Family love

Alrighty roo, so it's been another week since our last rendezvous. So much has happened it is Ca-razzz-aaayyy!

Let's begin by discussing my awesome Valentine's day, shall we? On the lovely morn of one of the most romantic days of the year, I was awakened not by my husband's loving hugs or kisses or sweet words. Nor, was I awakened to the light rapping on the door from the flower delivery man. Nor, was I awakened by a string quartet outside my window. No, no. I was awakened by the whining of a 13 year old pain in my ass whom I love very dearly and is EXTREMELY lucky that I do.

After the horrendous whining and falling (which later we would find is attributed to her lack of ability to walk on new hardwood flooring) and the heart attack mommy (me) had, we rushed my dear, sweet, oh-so-sick FiFi to the animal emergency room. Crying hysterically because I knew this was it, this was the day I was going to have to say good-bye, I brought her up to the counter sobbing. Barely able to contain myself, I somehow squeaked out the words "my cat can't walk and is dying".

Well, say that in an animal E.R. and see what happens!! We were rushed to the back and they whisked FiFi out of the carrier put her on the floor, she looked up at them innocently, walked across the room (in a perfectly straight line) and then JUMPED UP onto my lap. Ok, let's keep in mind that as with any emergency room, there are actual emergencies. The doctor, looking more than slightly perturbed, said to the nurse "Is this the cat that is dying?" I was stupid pissed at this point. "ummmm, yes?!?" I said. "Well, she looks pretty damn good for a cat who is on her death bed", said the doctor (eyes rolling).

Needless to say, after a plethora of tests, FiFi gettin' all pissy with the doctors because they had to, you know, put their fingers in certain places, we came to the conclusion my cat was constipated. Just so you know, we came to that conclusion 4 hours and $700 later. Happy Valentine's Day to me!!! So, after a bit of lubricated gel that she had to be forced to swallow, all is well in the Guilbeau household. With the exception of the continuous need she has to fulfill of urinating and defecating outside the 20 litter boxes that are at her constant disposal.

Here is my little angel, later that evening. Doesn't she look so ill?:

Moving on. I don't want to dwell on that because it puts me in all sorts of a bad mood. It also makes me do that cringe of embarrassment when you know you looked like an ass, and you re-live the moment over and over in your head. Oh God, I hate that.

So, on Monday I finally got together with one of my dear friends whom I met while selling her a house. We met for brunch at "Chatter's". Now, keep in mind, I am in no way a "foodie", so if you are looking for me to discuss the delicate intricacies of any meal, it ain't happenin' here.

***logo courtesy of "Chatter's" website***

Have you been to "Chatter's" on Waugh/Heights Blvd.? I really, really like this place. I've been there plenty of times in the past, but it was nice to go again and remember just how much I love it. The best way I can describe the atmosphere and the food at this restaurant is by using the word "clean". I know that sounds odd, but that's just how it makes me feel. The restaurant itself is always very clean, the linens crisp and white and the food always tastes fresh. This is a wonderful place to patronize if you have any special dietary needs because their menu accommodates almost anyone.

Open for brunch on the weekends, and lunch and dinner 7 days a week, "Chatter's" is really a great spot to stop in when you are shopping, catching up with a friend, on a diet, out with your honey, or pretty much anything! They even deliver! So, stop by "Chatter's" today and let me know your thoughts. I love, love, love their hummus, mimosa's and grilled veggie platter. Yum!!

Chatter's Cafe & Bistro
140 S. Heights Blvd. (also Waugh)
Houston, TX 77007
713-864-8080

Hours of Operation:
Mon-Thurs 11am-10pm
Fri-11am-11pm
Sat-10am-11pm
Sun-10am-9pm

Now it's time for a little catch up on my family because I know you want to know. My gorgeous and amazingly talented niece, Taylor, had a very special "Spring" party (Valentine's Day party) at her elementary (my Alma mater!). How fun was that??? We got to play Bingo, sit and talk with the other children at her table and her Mom and I ended up running the show because the homeroom Mom never showed up. Thank God we came!!

It was so adorable to see all these sweet kindergartners. They are so young, innocent, adorable and most of all, loving. They don't see flaws in each other, they don't insult, they haven't started to single each other out for being "different". They all just love each other and want to have fun. It kinda made me wish for those days again. I sat there smiling on Taylor and her innocence, knowing that she is going to be one of the ones that will make it in this tough world. She is a strong, smart little girl. She doesn't believe in hurting others, she has a big heart, but she is also a tough little cookie. It was really cool to see her in that setting. It calmed my constant fears (I'm a worrywart, in case you couldn't tell) about her growing up. She is gonna be just fine!!!

After the fun party, we got to go to the Independent School District building where artwork had been chosen from a few children at each grade level from all the schools in that district to be put on display. And, guess who was one of those chosen? Yes, you guessed it! My baby girl's beautiful flower was one of the pictures chosen to be displayed in the "floral" series.

Here is a picture of her gorgeous flower that she made all by herself! (keep in mind, she is only in Kindergarten!):

And, here is a picture of a very tired and worn out Miss Taylor plastering on a fake grin for her Aunt Nellie's annoying blog:

As far as "fattycakes" goes, there have not been many updates other than he is almost a full grown man at the age of 2 1/2. He is killing me with his cuteness and his incessant need to sing "Happy Birthday" to everyone. He likes to take his play-dough and put crayons in it (candles) and sing "Happy Birthday" to anyone/everyone he can think of. Trevor is doing a good job of helping mommy and daddy out around the house to prepare for his little brother, due in May.

As seen here:

The thing that saddens me most about Trevor growing up is that he is being taught how to use pronouns correctly. Now, I know this is a necessity, but there is nothing cuter than a 2 year old boy coming up to you and saying "You wan sum canny cane?" Translation ~ "Can I have a piece of candy cane?" OH MY GOD, it is so adorable. "You wan a sip o coke?" "You wan pway with sum pway dough?" And, now the 'rents are teaching him to speak correctly. It is killing me.

So, that is all for now. I'm hoping to get over to a fab Thai place this week. I was unable to last week. I want to give you a good review for those over in the Humble/Kingwood area!

Peace out!

Links of the week

Ok, so I have had a few really crappy weeks. I'm going to go ahead and chalk it up to the crazy weather, mmmmkay? Otherwise, I might find myself locked up in a padded room soon because I'm going friggin' nuts.

Anyway, that aside, let's get to bidness. We haven't done our "Links of the Week" in quite awhile, now have we?

Whenever I am irritated, bored, tired, or just plain in the mood for a good chuckle, I go to this site to read this email exchange between a web-designer and his dillhole client. I got the link off of twitter and have read it about a million times since. It is so dang funny, and any computer programmer, web designer, graphic artist, techie, etc. will identify with the frustration that is apparent throughout this convo. From acidcow.com, click on link below and thank me later:

Please design a logo for me. With pie charts

Edited to add: Original source of the above article is from: 27B/6 (thank you, Jay!)

When you are finished reading the above exchange, you simply must hop over to People Of Wal-Mart. And, I mean get there asap. This is friggin' hilarious. It is a website that is a compilation of pictures, taken at various Wal-Mart locations, and filled with the wonderful diverse population of weirdos that you will typically see anytime you enter one. For instance, do you think you would see this same girl in Neimans?

And, you know that every time you enter into this holy, fluorescent-lit, fecal-smelling, dollar store heaven, you are without a doubt gonna run into your local pimp:

For some, Wal-Mart is about bringing the community together. Or, finding love in the "as seen on tv aisle" while searching for your bumpit. And for some, Wal-Mart seems like the perfect, pre-decorated venue for sharing vows with your friends, family and the rest of the town, employees and vagrants:

***All photos courtesy of People Of Wal-Mart***

Lastly, here is a link to one of my favorite blogs, "OH NO THEY DIDN'T". Introduced to me by my sister, Dee Anne. This blog rocks. It keeps me up to date on all my celeb gossip and shizz. I don't really need to go into it on this one. Just read it.

Hope you all are well and I have some great reviews coming up in the next couple of weeks. Hopefully things will get back to an even pace and I can keep the blog updated at least weekly.

Peace out.

New website, I hate my cell phone service and why Coffee Groundz rocks.

So, FYI, I started a new website for my Real Estate bidness, it is called My Houston House and it will be primarily where I post cool listings. Therefore, if you like to view the listings I post, I suggest you high-tail it to My Houston House and subscribe today. Mmmmmkay?

I just wanted to give you all a PSA on Sprint. I hate them. I am beholden to these nimrods for 2 years because my husband and I decided to get all highfalutin' and buy Blackberrys. When we went to get our annoying ass Blackberrys, we could have changed providers because our contracts were up. We knew we had dropped calls. We knew the stupid Sprint wireless cards we had only held internet connections for 30 minutes at a time. But, noooooooo. We had to succumb to the shiny little hand-held computer that was so cool it would change our lives.

I still have yet to figure out how to email an entire photo album of pictures from this phone. I download them and they just go into an eternal abyss of cell phone hell. I CANNOT DEAL with one more person saying "WAIT! WAIT! Say that again, please. I didn't catch any of that". Or, "You're totally breaking up, are you there?" I'm the living version of the friggin' "Can you hear me now" commercial. Also, I basically have to stand in the corner of my home office standing as close to the window/corner as possible, balance on one leg, put a piece of foil on my head, chant and dance just to get service IN MY OWN HOME. I'm inner loop for God's sake. Shouldn't I have service??????????????????????

This becomes even more frustrating when I need to use my computer. No, Sprint, I really DO enjoy it when I'm in the middle of sending an important email or searching for a home for a client and look down to see the stupid, ugly, yellow and black icon saying "Disconnected".

Because of this, I am so happy to have found Coffee Groundz. Haven't been to Coffee Groundz? Well then your life is probably empty and lonely and sad.

Ok, that might have been a little harsh (I'm coming down from my Sprint rant). This place is like Wi-Fi heaven. And, you don't pay to use it!! Okkkkaaaayy? So, next time you are desperately trying to send an important document and realize you will be re-booting your lame-ass wireless internet carrier 20 times before you achieve success, just go to Coffee Groundz.

***Logo courtesy of Coffee Groundz website***

While you are there, say "Hi" to the General Manager, JR Cohen. This guy is amazing. He's been acknowledged a million times over for basically being a "Social Media Genius", has won the "Statesmen Award" is a highly respected businessman and the man behind "WeSLGT". Don't know WeSLGT? Well, you should. It stands for "We Support Local Growth Together". Ain't that a slick idea? People utilizing the services of local businesses to make our community stronger. Just makes sense, doesn't it?

JR Cohen:

***pic of JR Cohen courtesy of Coffee Groundz website***

Oh, by the way. Before I forget, Coffee Groundz has some of the best damn coffee you will ever taste. I cannot count the number of times people have said "I seriously can't drink coffee anywhere else because it just doesn't compare".

If you decide to go (which you should), the "Milky Way" is a must try. OH, and the "Cake Balls". DEAR GOD ON HIGH, these are amazing. Just to make your life easier, while you are visiting with the many cool people (including myself) who patronize Coffee Grounds, you can order breakfast, lunch or dinner. If you aren't a coffee drinker, please don't worry. Coffee Groundz serves a lovely array of refreshements including the ones that get you drizunk.

Coffee Groundz is open almost round the clock and has a drive thru for those days that you are just too damn ugly to get out of your car. They also host most of Houston's cool events, like the recent "Texas Tequila Throwdown". There is almost always an event there because it is the most happenin' place to be!!

Coffee Groundz fun pics (Flickr Photostream)

***Photostream courtesy of Coffee Groundz website***

Hope you take my advice and pop on by. It's terribly easy to find. On the corner of Bagby and McGowen in Midtown.

Coffee Groundz:
2503 Bagby St.,
Houston, TX 77006

Hours of Operation:

* Mon. – Thurs.: 6 AM – 10 PM
* Friday: 6 AM – 12 AM*
* Saturday: 8 AM – 12 AM*
* Sunday: 8 AM – 10 PM
* * Unless there is an event.

Drive Thru Hours:

* Mon. – Fri.: 6 AM – 5 PM*
* Saturday: 8 AM – 12 PM*
* Sunday: 8 AM – 12 PM*
* * Unless there is an event.

View Larger Map

Yelapa, Black Sheep and catch up on my life because I know you're interested.

It's been a bit of a challenging few weeks. Robert and I moved (across the hall) and we are now the proud renters (yes, I realize I'm a Realtor and my husband owns a Home Inspection Company) of an upgraded apartment. Oh yes, you heard me right. No more FiFi urinating on the carpet. Know why? THERE IS NO CARPET!! Mwahahahahahaha!!!! I don't think I've seen Robert this happy or FiFi this unhappy in a long time. Ahhhh, times are good.

Just in case you don't know the history, Robert and FiFi tolerate each other. To be fair, FiFi was there first. However, Robert is the love of my life. What does a gal do? Well, I sat down with both of them and told them to basically learn to live with each other. Robert pouted, FiFi peed on the floor, and we went along living blissfully in our urine-stained life. Every so often, when Robert wasn't throwing a shoe in FiFi's direction because he felt she was "eyeballin" him, I would catch the two in a sweet moment of playing around. Sometimes, Robert will even pet her with his toe. 'Tis so sweet. (just to be clear, he'd throw shoes toward her, not actually at her-he's not evil).

FiFi (my baby):





Robert (love of my life):

Anyway, in addition, my sister is preggers again with another boy!!! Yay!!!!! I'm so excited. As you all know, the first one came pretty darned good and couldn't be more perfect.

Trevor:

So, we are all waiting with bated breath for the arrival of perfection, part two. However, let us not forget about the stunning and gorgeous Miss Taylor whom the world revolves around.

Taylor:

Needless to say, things have been major hectic. But, in a good way. I sold a house in January for 1/2 million, and am in the process of selling number two, which should close in February. This is very exciting for me as I have very specific goals I have set for myself this year.

One such goal is to get out and meet new people and not be such a damn hermit all the time! So, I went to a social gathering at Yelapa Playa Mexicana on Wednesday and had a blast. First, the people I met were amazing, second the atmosphere was festive and lastly, the food was to die for. Holy hell that was some damn good food! I'd driven by this place a million times and never thought to go there. Well guess what, dear reader? Yelapa Playa Mexicana on Richmond, between Shepherd and Kirby, is now my "holy grail" for Mexican food. They specialize in "Pacific Coast Inspired Mexican Fare". And, it is gooooood!

Their raw plates are my faves. As you know, I love me some sushi. So, the raw plate selection was especially enticing to me. OMG, the Cebiche and Campechana de Serrano were absolutely the best I've ever had. And, try the Cucumber Gazpacho. You can get it in a shot, cup or bowl. If you like Mussels, you will have a coronary over these!! So. Damn. Good.

The drinks are crazy good and ask for the best waiter, Israel. He is so sweet and attentive and a great waiter. Go to Yelapa Playa Mexicana today. You'll thank me for it later.

Yelapa Playa Mexicana
2303 Richmond Ave.
Houston, TX 77098
(281) 501-0391

Hours of Operation:
Monday-Tuesday 11am-10p,
Wednesday-11am-11pm
Sundays-closed

**small hint-it's located across from Blue Fish in the same parking lot as The Hobbit Cafe.**

***all pics (and logo) courtesy of Yelapa Playa Mexicana official website***

Braised Lamb Shoulder:



Cebiche/Ceviche:



Dining Room:

Now, for my introduction to this most awesome place, I have Aimee Woodall to thank. What? You don't know Aimee Woodall? Are you living under a rock? She just happens to be one of the major players over at the "Black Sheep" marketing firm.

**logo courtesy of official website**

Are you in a marketing rut with your office? Do you need to actually get business instead of just trying to "retain" what little you've kept? Then I highly suggest that you give this girl a call. She's been making headlines all over the place with some of her innovative ideas. Email Aimee for help today. Trust me, you need it.

So, that is all for now folks. I hope to write again soon! ♥ ♥ ♥

Beer Can House and Romeo and Juliet

So, here's the deal, yo. I've been super busy and I have neglected you, dear reader. And, for that I apologize. However, I don't apologize for all the cheddar I've been makin' because of it. I'm a Realtor, and a dang good one. Mmmmmkay? Even so, I must give my peeps what they want, so I am here to school you on what's cool.

***In case you didn't figure it out by now, most of those sentences were put together with the use of Urban Dictionary, one of my most favorite websites. It helps me keep my street cred.***

Have you been to the "Beer Can House" on Malone St? It is a must see. John Milkovisch, started this project in 1968 and 50,000 beer cans later, his "Beer Can House" was born. The siding, garlands, and decoration are all out of beer cans, tabs, etc. I learned about this place from my friend, Connie, who always has the coolest purses in the world. Needless to say, if you take a tour of the "Beer Can House", you must visit the gift shop!! The tours are on Saturdays and Sundays from noon-5pm and if you get a chance, please take a moment to go see this cool little piece of Houston history. It's also been a restoration project that was finished in 2008. If you love neat little knick knacks and off-beat funky fun, then visiting the "Beer Can House" should be on your agenda!

Beer Can House
Picture courtesy of official website:

For all those lova's out there, how about doing something a little different and perhaps, ROMANTIC for Valentine's Day this year? Why not take your lady to see an incredibly beautiful modern dance version of the classic, "Romeo and Juliet", performed by the "Dominic Walsh Dance Theater"? Praised for their ability to bring modern dance to the same level as the Houston's Symphony, Operas and Ballet, Dominic Walsh and his Dance Company are definitely the next generation of art through movement. Go take your sweetie to see this performance and you won't regret it! Shows are Feb. 11, 13 & 14th at the Wortham Theater Center.

You can go to the official website to purchase tickets, or click here.

Pic courtesy of the Dominic Walsh Dance Theater official website:

Ok kids, that's all for now. But, I'll make a conserted effort to post more often. I know how much you all miss me.

Vince Vaughn broke my heart on Saturday and Beaver's rocks.

I don't even know what to say anymore. While I was busy watching "Four Christmases", Vince went and got hitched. Doesn't he know that I was watching his movie? How dare he? He is now officially removed from my "Hollywood crush list of men that I don't actually have a crush on because I only love my husband".

Here he is with his skank lovely new wife:

***Pic courtesy of Fame/Barcroft Media***

Then, I read today that a bigass tuna sold for $177,000 in Japan? Are you friggin' kidding me? To make that worth my while, I had better be getting 17,700 meals from that one fish. Just sayin'. Jeez.

Big Ass Tuna:

***Pic courtesy of Yahoo***

So, Texas Monthly indicated via twitter that they want to know who their dear readers would like to see on the cover of their next issue. They have been bombarded with tweets from tons of fans of "Beaver's" on Washington. If you aren't following @PapaBeav, you are missing all the action on twitter.

**Logo courtesy of Beaver's website**

That being said, if you haven't been to "Beaver's", then I feel very sorry for you. The food is outstanding. Ask any Houston Foodie and they will tell you that brunch, lunch or dinner at "Beaver's" is the place to be. "Beaver's" is an "icehouse", but oh so much better. The focus at this eatery is on "Traditional Texas Cuisine". That is a rarity here amongst the vast array of restaurants in Houston. For example, the "Nacho Mamma's Oysters" will make you re-think your current religious beliefs and possibly start to worship the beav. Keep in mind, eating here daily will result in the enlargement of your legs, thighs and butt, however, it just might be worth it. If you live nearby, you could just walk it off. Seriously. Or, you could buy a house from me nearby and then you would be good to go.

The bbq at this holy haven starts at 5pm. I'd make sure to stop by at least once to cash in on that. In all honesty, I'd make every effort to stop by at least once for dinner, once for lunch and once for brunch, so you can get a good sampling of what amazing food is all about. We aren't talking your typical brisket and mashed potatoes here. This man is a genius.

If you happen to be on twitter, drop a tweet to @TexasMonthly and let them know you'd like to see @PapaBeav on the cover!

Here's the schedule for "Beaver's". Read a little bit about the history behind the restaurant and you'll be even more intrigued!

Tuesday & Wednesday
Lunch Menu 11 am - 3pm
Dinner Menu 3pm - 10 pm
Bar Stays Open until 11pm

Thursday & Friday
Lunch Menu 11 am - 3pm
Dinner Menu 3pm - 11pm
Bar Stays Open until Midnight

Saturday
Lunch Menu 12 noon - 3pm
Dinner Menu 3pm - 11pm
Bar Stays Open until Midnight


Sunday We are OPEN for Sunday Brunch!
Brunch menu 11am - 3pm
Dinner Menu 3pm - 10 pm


Closed Mondays

Hope to see you there!! Have a great day.