Shop: Coral Reef

Of all the high end designers, I feel Kate Spade lives inside my mind and brings to life creations so beautiful I can't even comprehend that they really exist. I find myself magnetized to her designs.

Tonight I stumbled upon a line of her jewelry called Coral Reef. I am absolutely in love with this double strand necklace.

The Coral Reef line also includes a whimsical bracelet, an elegant ring, and bling bling earrings.

While the beach weather seems lifetimes away, let these jewels transport you to the sun and sand.

GREEK: Spring Break Up

After two weeks of fantastic episodes, GREEK had a fall from grace during this week's Spring season finale. The whole gang headed to Myrtle Beach for spring break (which last year brought us the Hotness Monster), but this year brought disappointment and missed opportunities.

Sorry to be counter intuitive, but let's start at the end. How can you end the season with our heroine alone in tears? She put her sorority house back on top, she got into GW for law school, but her spring break ends by being dumped? So many shades of wrong.

Also, while I love the idea of Calvin as house president (and that the KTs masterminded a revenge plan that allowed that to happen) where was his hook up with Heath? Two episodes of obvious flirtation and nothing? Come on!

Then we have Rusty, Dana and Dale sharing a room which should have been hilarious, but was cliche and boring. No Jesus jokes? Where is the judgemental Dale we know and love?

There were two bright spots in this otherwise gloomy and lackluster episode - Ashleigh meets a trend expert and lands herself an internship (also love that she makes up a fake persona when she's out at a bar) and Evan and Rebecca get back together. Somehow, despite their dysfunctional and back stabbing natures, I root for them.

So now we wait for the next season with the image of Casey crying tattooed on our brains. Sorry to say it, but epic fail.

Gossip Girl: Strike A Pose

At last it is confirmed, Dorota is alive! And kickin'! Well, her baby is anyway (to the tune of Metallica). After weeks of being MIA, Dorota reappeared as Blair's sidekick on last night's episode of Gossip Girl as Blair helped her mother launch her first juniors fashion line.

In an attempt to calm her down, Rufus arranges for Jenny to help Eleanor with the fashion show. Jenny knocks it out of the park and Eleanor offers her a full time job! Don't rejoice just yet.

Apparently Agnes is back (cue the "Jaws" music). Why the writers decided to unearth this wretched creature is beyond me. Agnes returns set on revenge and drugs Jenny and then drops her limp body off at a bachelor party. My heart actually pounded at the thought of these randoms taking advantage of Little J. Thankfully Nate saw Jenny being tossed into a cab and answering her panicked call a few minutes later. More on Jenny and Nate in a bit.

This episode Serena decides to make a comment to Vanessa about her and Dan being stuck in a rut. Vanessa internalizes this and decides to plan a special, romantic, movie-themed evening for Dan, which goes completely over his head and she ultimately storms out in disgust. Dan makes everything right again with some cliche words over pierogis about being in love with his best friend. Barf.

Now onto Chuck! With Jack in charge of the hotel, he has Chuck forcefully removed. When Chuck tries to reason with Elizabeth and have the hotel signed back over to him, he learns she is Jack's lover and did all of this to save their relationship. Who could be in love with such a snake? She tells Chuck she isn't really his mother, she just pretended to be. As we are trying to process this, in the final scene, Elizabeth says goodbye to Jack and admits she really IS Chuck's mother but lied to him to soften the blow. WHAT? So confused. Is she gone for good? I have a feeling the answer is no.

In the shocking previews for next week it seems Nate and Jenny rekindle their flame, and in an attempt to help Chuck win back his hotel, Blair sleeps with Jack? Say it ain't so!

Want to relive every moment of this week's episode? Enjoy the recap from New York Magazine's Daily Intel.

Grey's Anatomy: To Hope Or Not To Hope

This week's episode left me feeling profoundly sad. Grey's has a tendency to take a turn towards depressionville every now and again, and those episodes leave your heart feeling physically heavy. For example, when George's father passed away, when Denny died on prom night, or when the man who was hit by a bus turned out to be George.

This week the overwhelming sadness came from a story line involving Owen, and flashbacks to his time in Iraq. The flashbacks focused on two images - Teddy laughing and playing a game of soccer, and his lieutenant Dan (oooo, just realized that's same name as Gary Sinise's character in Forrest Gump), who passed away after their truck flipped over. Owen does everything he can to save his fellow solider, but he lets go at the last minute, per Dan's request. Just as Owen agrees to let him pass, the helicopter arrives to rescue them. OF COURSE. And I'm crying.

Once the episode was over, I was utterly confused as to why Owen was fixated on these memories of Teddy. He has had the chance to be with her multiple times now and he continues to choose Cristina. Its going to be too little, too late, buddy.

Teddy has been spending her free time with Mark. After three sex-less dates, they finally consummate their relationship this week. I am a fan of this pairing. I look forward to seeing where this goes.

This week Callie tells Arizona she wants to have a baby. Callie learned in the last episode that Arizona doesn't want to have children. After Callie shares this, Arizona lets go of her hands and pulls away. Uh oh. I smell a break up.

This episode I also enjoyed the Chief's attempts to fit in with the younger staff. His "I'd hit that" moment was priceless. I also enjoyed Dr. Avery's advice to Meredith "be a Who in Whoville" after Derek stole her surgery. Cute! I would like Dr. Avery to have a love interest please.

I wish their had been some Bailey/Ben screen time, but hopefully that happens next week.

In the previews we learn that Alex has a brother and he's coming to Seattle Grace next week! Things seem to get heated pretty quickly, just the way we like them!

Check out the Grey's Anatomy writer's blog for behind-the-scenes info about this week's episode. You can also watch this week's episode with commentary from Kevin McKidd (Dr. Hunt) on ABC.com. Through his commentary I learned:

1) The ambulance driver Nicole is actually their script supervisor
2) They had to film multiple takes of him reciting the "Hail Mary" with lieutenant Dan because he kept getting too emotional
3) The helicopter in the final Iraq scene was CGI

Worth rewatching to hear his comments!

Dining Out: Rialto

Tonight I had dinner at Rialto as part of Boston's restaurant week. Rialto is located in the Charles Hotel in the heart of Harvard Square. Growing up I spent countless weekends bopping around Harvard Square with my family and I must have walked past Rialto literally hundreds of times, always wanting to go in, but never taking the time to make a reservation.

When the list of participating restaurants was announced for this cycle of restaurant week and Rialto was amongst them, I decided immediately to make a reservation.

When we arrived tonight we were greeted by a vibrant hostess and host. One who confirmed our reservation and the second who escorted us to our table. We were seated in the back room of the restaurant at a spacious table with a fantastic view of the square.

Our waitress arrived to explain the special restaurant week menu, and that executive chef Jody Adams had decided to also offer several house specialties in addition to the restaurant week menu that you could order a la carte, or substitute into the restaurant week offering. Very considerate!

In addition to the three course special menu, there was a specialty cocktail list as well. We started with the acai-lime rickey and the pomegranate mojito. Both drinks were a delightful shade of girly pink and tasted fruity and refreshing.

For our first course we started with the asparagus risotto and the heirloom bean soup. The risotto was warm, creamy and just the right amount of asparagus, not too overwhelming. The soup was hearty, but not heavy, and surprisingly fresh tasting (despite its dark and unappealing color). The crusty bread served in our bread basket was the perfect compliment to the soup.

For the entree course we sampled the arctic char and the cheese ravioli. The arctic char was served with a crispy skin over a bed of peas, mushrooms, pine nuts and mint. The presentation was absolutely stunning. The cheese ravioli was surprisingly light and the cheese flavor was exquisite. The pasta was garnished with tomatoes and a green herb sauce, adding an excellent burst of flavor to each bite.

Now onto dessert, my favorite course. We ordered the chocolate espresso torta and the coconut semifreddo. Both desserts arrived presented as works of art. The chocolate espresso torta was literally defying gravity. The torta was a rich, dense chocolate served with whipped cream, fresh strawberries and a chocolate chip macaroon. Are you drooling? The semifreddo was light, creamy and supremely satisfying.

Once we'd cleaned our plates (literally) our server returned with the check and said, "Ladies, please ignore this until you're ready. Absolutely no rush," which I sincerely appreciated.

On our way out the hostess asked how we enjoyed our meal, to which we replied, "it was fantastic! It was our first time and we can't wait to return." She smiled and said, "I am so glad, we look forward to seeing you again." And you know what? I believed her. The staff at Rialto was polite, friendly and wonderfully accommodating.

Overall, my experience at Rialto was off the charts. The restaurant itself was gorgeous (it felt like the sort of place where you get proposed to), the staff was incredible, the preparation of the restaurant week food and beverage menu was thoughtful, and every item we were served was exceptional.

In addition to checking out the restaurant (which you must) you can also follow executive chef Jody Adams as she competes on Season 2 of Top Chef Masters on BRAVO TV. The show premieres on Wednesday April 7th at 10:00 pm.

Keep up with all the Rialto happenings in real time by following them on Twitter @Rialto02138.

GREEK: What Happens In The Pantry, Stays In The Pantry

After last week's amazing 80s themed episode of GREEK, I wasn't sure they could keep up the momentum, but . . . I was wrong! This week's episode, centered around two Greek contests, was fantastic!

Let's begin with the reveal of Dale's relationship with Laura from ZBZ! I had a feeling he would eventually win over one of the sisters. He gets a surprising amount of female attention! Three words: Sheila the landlord.

I also thoroughly enjoyed Rebecca's soap box speech at the Greek Goddess competition. It was about time she addressed her behavior and it was clear Evan appreciated it.

My only disappointment in last night's hour was the break up of Calvin and Grant. I really loved them together. Although, Heath gave Calvin a lingering touch on the arm at the Greek golf tournament and I have a feeling in next week's finale they are going to have a rekindling of their romance!

In the final scene of the night Rusty and Cappie share their ultimate revenge plan with the rest of their house for taking down Evan and Omega Chi. I can feel that this is going to be a great finale!

In the preview for next week, Dana comes on Spring break (can't wait for that awkwardness) and Cappie presents Casey with a tiny, black velvet box. I think he's presenting her with his Greek letters, anyone else?

Be sure to follow Greek on Twitter, where they share all kinds of behind-the-scenes stories and spoilers!

Gossip Girl: Mommy Dearest

You know it's a good episode of Gossip Girl when you find yourself flying forward toward the TV, arms raised in protest, shouting, "Nooooooooooooooooo!" It had been a while since I had an "Oh Snap!" moment with the Upper East Side crew. Perhaps when Maureen got a hold of the letter from Serena's dad? Last night's final minute plot twist caught me totally off guard!

In the final scene of last night's episode Chuck signs his leadership role at the Empire hotel over to his "mother" Elizabeth. No sooner than we begin to think Chuck's heart is thawing do we see Elizabeth walk into a room with evil Jack Bass who asks, "So, do we have ourselves a hotel?" You dirty rat. Make that two dirty rats!

On the upside, Chuck has always had a thing for devious revenge plots, so I am sure he'll think of something magnificent to retaliate with.

In other news, Jenny planned to lose her virginity to Damien the drug dealer but changed her mind at the last minute. Despite pushing off Serena's faux advances to be loyal to Jenny, in the end Damien chose his libido over Little J.

This week Rufus and Lily also began working on a reconciliation (thank god). As they came back together, Dan and Vanessa heightened their togetherness, just not in front of anyone they know. There was a great scene about "friends" zones and "friends with benefits" zones. Bravo, GG writers. I thoroughly enjoyed that. Almost as much as I enjoyed Vanessa tormenting Dan by showing up to the Bass party, declaring she wasn't wearing any underwear, and then sauntering away across the public "friends only" zone.

I would still like to know where Eric and Dorota are hiding and when Billy Baldwin (a.k.a. Papa Van der Woodsen) is going to show his face!?

As you know, each week I point you to New York Magazine's Daily Intel recap, and this week they were actually mentioned on the show! Be sure to check out the bloggers' reaction in the post.

Looking forward to next week - Chuck Bass Strikes Back!

Shop: Liberty of London for Target

While flipping through the pages of the March issue of InStyle magazine I noticed an article about a London label, Liberty of London, launching a home and fashion line for Target.

Liberty is known for its brightly colored, feminine textile designs and the new, very affordable line for Target is incredible! Check out a few of my favorite items:

1) Teal and gold feather piggy bank

2) Black and hot pink decorative organizer bin

3) Pink, floral umbrella

4) Whimsical flower pot/planter

Can you even wait? Go get 'em!

New Discovery: Police Women

Back in December I was visiting my parents in Miami and late one night I discovered a show on TLC called Police Women of Broward County. I don't normally watch any type of cop show (reality or otherwise) but for some reason I was completely sucked in and wound up watching three episodes in a row!

The show follows female police officers as they do everything from pull people over on the road, respond to calls of domestic disputes, plan and execute drug busts, and go undercover to trap predators. Maybe its the feminist in me, but I love to see these women kicking butt!

The first season was so successful, TLC is now airing Police Women of Maricopa County, which is based in Phoenix, AZ under the supervision of a very controversial sheriff, Joe Arpaio. Sheriff Arpaio gained nationally media attention when he placed inmates in tents when the jails got too crowded and for forcing prisoners to wear pink underwear. He also has his deputies arrest offenders with pink hand cuffs (which you see on the show).

The cool part of the show is that you also get to see the women off duty, with their spouses, caring for their children, and how they let loose.

Fight your "this show is too trashy for me" instinct and tune in to Police Women on TLC every Thursday at 9:00pm. (Yes, that is the same time as Grey's Anatomy and the Office. Don't worry, they run repeats at alternate times).

Dining Out: Tryst

Tonight I had dinner at Tryst in Arlington Center as part of Boston's restaurant week. Located in the heart of Arlington on Massachusetts Avenue, Tryst attracts both an after work crowd at the bar, and families and couples to their elegant dining room.

The restaurant looks and feels as if it has been furnished entirely from the Pottery Barn catalog - the chairs, the tables, the decor and even the lighting! In the bar area, where we were seated, the lighting is very dim and romantic.

Our waiter brought us the drink menu, the dinner menu and the special restaurant week menu. We started with a glass of pinot grigio and a raspberry caipirinha, a Brazilian drink that is somewhere between a mojito and a margarita. Tryst's version was absolutely sublime! A generous size drink, a heavy hand from the bartender, and just the right amount of raspberry flavor. Mmm mmm!

We started with a chopped salad that was served with sunflower seeds, radishes, tomatoes, sourdough croutons and cucumber yogurt dressing. Not only was the portion size extremely generous, the dressing was lick-your-plate delicious.

Next our entrees arrived. Heirloom squash ravioli for me, and the bell & evans chicken for my dinner date. The ravioli was just the right amount of sweet with a decadent sage brown butter sauce. The chicken was heavenly, served with a caramelized vegetable and shallot sauce that "crystallized on your tongue." The plate also featured carrots, broccoli rabe and a rice pilaf served with shaved parmesan cheese. Are you drooling?

For dessert we had the deconstructed banana split. The stunning presentation showcased a sliced banana, a beehive of marshmallow filled with chocolate mousse, strawberry sauce, vanilla ice cream, candied topping, and a small dish of hot fudge. I have one of the biggest sweet tooths of anyone I know, and I have eaten a lot of dessert in my life. I can honestly say, this dish makes the Top 10 of all time. Absolute perfection.

In addition to the beautiful atmosphere, the great drinks and the superb food, we were also served by the most gracious and accommodating staff, particularly the hostess, who routinely checked in with us to see how our evening was progressing. She was even kind enough to take a photo for us!

I would 100 percent return to Tryst, in fact, I can't wait to have an excuse to plan the next trip!

GREEK: Who Are You Lloyd Dobler-ing?

Can I have a massive round of applause for this week's episode of GREEK? Why has no one ever written a television episode that revolves around 80s romantic comedy references? Brilliant and highly enjoyable!

This episode Rusty had the difficult task of choosing between two admirers, Katherine and Dana. Katherine, while awkward, is a Greek geek just like Rusty and beautiful when she isn't tweaking out. Meanwhile, Dana, is the female version of Rusty (in a good way), and she also bakes delicious maple bars. Tricky. Ashleigh tries to counsel Rusty with advice based on her recent viewing of every Molly Ringwald movie.

The best moment of the night came when Rusty tried to win back Katherine, only to find that Evan had moved in on her. Just like in the 80s rom com plots, he and Ashleigh blurted out in unison,"preppy jackass!"

On a sad note, Casey learned she and Cappie's love story is only a short story. On a camping trip with Cappie's hippie parents it becomes clear to Casey she can't see a long term future with him. I love them together, but I was also digging that lawyer hunk Joel.

I could have used a few more Dale one-liners and some more Calvin/Grant revelry, but overall this episode was excellent!

Want daily, behind the scenes GREEK gossip? Follow the show on Twitter @ABCFGreek.

Gossip Girl: Bad Moves Galore

This week's Gossip Girl episode left me completely irritated. Let's begin with Little J pretending she's a badass. If you've been watching the show since the start you know Jenny pulled this once before when she ran away, quit school and tried work full time at Eleanor Waldorf's atelier. Jenny, it didn't work then, and your scheme to become drug dealer Damien's blond, trophy girlfriend isn't going to work either!

I was also repulsed by the hook up between Dan and Vanessa. Seriously? We pitied Vanessa when she pined for Dan, and now its just all wrong. I'd rather have him back with Georgina. At least she was unpredictable. And what is going on with Dan's unruly, curly mess of a hair do? No, no and no.

While I appreciated Serena and Nate's steamy kitchen love scene, overall, Serena was whiny and annoying the entire episode. We get it, you want to meet your father. Naturally, now that she left him a voicemail announcing she's moving on, he will show up. Enter, Billy Baldwin, stage left.

Speaking of surprise guests, where are Eric and Dorota?

The one bright spot in this episode? Blair Waldorf. Not only was she incredibly loving and supportive to Chuck as he learned his mother is in fact alive (hello, daytime soap story line) but her black outfit with the beaded neckline and black and gold patterned skirt? Flawless.

In previews for next week apparently Jenny decides to lose her virginity to Damien (excellent idea) and Lily and Rufus finally reconcile.

Need more GG? Check out the always side-splitting New York Magazine Daily Intel Recap.

Also, if you were wondering what that amazing song was last night toward the end of the episode, it was One Republic's "Secrets." You're welcome.