Party Like it's 1922

How are you going to ring in the new year? No idea? Well how about something 1920's, or more specifically Gatsby, inspired:

H&M:

                                                            

Anthropologie:

Modcloth:

Vintage: 

                                               

Spending New year's at home? Do it in Style by throwing on this super cozy sweatshirt from G4tsby Tees (it comes in 6 colors, and is only 24 US Dollars...quite the steal):

                       

Peace, Love and Sparkles
Laura

(click on the pics for sources)

Day 25: Merry Christmas!

I hope you are all having a wonderful day, that's filled with family, friends, music, and of course cookies...lots of cookies.

 Merry Christmas from me to you, and many hugs to thank you for the ongoing support!

Peace, Love, and Mistletoe

Laura

Day 24: The Night Before Christmas

'T was the night before Christmas, when all through the house 

not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse

The stockings were hung by the Chimney with care, 

In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there…

Looks like we made it, the night of all nights is finally here. I hope that my posts kept you entertained, and helped to make this time of year even more special than it already is.  For now  there's only one more thing I want to share with you: The official NORAD Santa Tracker!

I'm sure most of you already know about this amazing project that was launched by the North American Aerospace Defense Command in the early 1950's  - but it has come a long way since then: from the tweets to the videos that show a CGI Santa flying over famous landmarks (occasionally  narrated by surprise guests such as  Ringo Starr back in 2003) the tracker is not only a treat for children. So stop by to see if Santa's on his way to you: NORAD tracks Santa

He sprang to his sleight, to his team gave a whistle,

And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.

But i heard him exclaim, 'ere he drove out of sight,

 "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!"

Peace, Love and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 23: Christmas Dress

It's almost here! And with all presents wrapped, cards sent, and trees trimmed there's only one question left unanswered: What to wear on the big day?

While doing some last minute Christmas shopping at Benetton (yes I admit it, I was looking for the GLEE sweater), I stumbled across a gorgeous dress. A dress that happens to be perfect for Christmas Eve: 

In old Benetton fashion it comes in many colors, and here are 3 very cute ways to wear it: 

                              Source: laurafaiss.polyvore.com via Laura on Pinterest

What is your fave? Sporty, girly or cozy? I'd definitely go for look number 3, those Westwood tights  are to die for.

Peace, Love and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 22: Gift Guide: Don't Panic!

48 hours until Christmas, you check your lists, you're ready to put on your Santa hat and spread joy and pretty boxes among your... Oh no!  What's that? You forgot someone!

Now you have 3 options: A) Panic and run over a reindeer on your trip to the Mall, B) Go on a last minute vacation to avoid Christmas alltogether, or C) Grab a latte, sit back, relax,  and read this:

1) Sign them up! 

Be it for their favorite magazine, or one of the many monthly boxes (there's even one that hooks you up with a cool pair of socks every month) - signing your friend up for a subscription is the gift that keeps on giving.

2) Pamper them!

Need something for your best friend? Find a cute card, and make it a “gift certificate“ for an after Christmas manicure or facial.

3) Hit the kitchen!

Try out this fun recipe and  surprise your friends with your very own hot chocolate mix.

4) Print their Pics!

Put together a photo album of all those Instagram moments (before we all delete our accounts in January)

5) Write about them!  

Ok, I admit that this might not be for everyone - but some of the best  and most personal presents I have received over the years were stories that were dedicated to me, or even stared me (how very Dan Humphrey of my friends).

6) If there's really no time:

If you did not realize your mistake until 5 minutes before the party, your safest option is probably a gift certificate. From ASOS to iTunes, there's something for everyone and buying and printing it will still leave you with enough time to put it into a pretty gift bag with some of your Christmas candy.

Peace, Love and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 21: Welcome to Whoville

If the Grinch taught me one thing it is that there are really no limits when it comes to festive hairstyles. And here are a couple of ideas that I am loving:

source

Just kidding! But if you have long hair like Cindy-Lou you should give this adorable 3 minute up-do a try. Use a fun printed ribbon for a more casual affair, or maybe something gold or silver for a night out.

Got a pixie cut, like yours truly? Just find an art deco head band (try Ebay and second hand stores for vintage pieces!), or highlight a few strands with shimmer gel (the body glitter you can find at Claire's works better than any high end product), and you'll be the cutest Who at any party.

ASOS

Peace, Love and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 20: Cookie Cutting

These mini danish (ok, they are cookies, but "mini danish" sounds so much more impressive), are extremely delicious, and only take about 10 minutes to make  - so what are you waiting for?

You need:

 puff pastry dough

cinnamon

1 egg

milk

a frozen fruit mix of your choice 

(I used berries and tangerines)

Roll out the dough (you can buy it pre-made at any supermarket), cut it into the shapes you want,  mix the egg-white with a little bit of milk and cinnamon, and brush the mixture over your cookies. Then add the frozen fruit, and bake your creations until they have a golden glow.  That's it! Bon appétit!

Peace, Love and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 19: Hump Day Homework: The Richest Man in Town

I'm gonna do this a little differently this week,  there will be no “Read“ and "Listen to", because the movie I want you to watch is too special to share the spotlight:

Watch: It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

There are many good Christmas movies, but only few are as great as Frank Capra's It's a Wonderful Life. Some of my earliest Christmas memories include this movie. For years I was convinced that Santa wouldn't come until Jimmy Stewart realized what a lucky man he really was, and even though I know every line by heart I still make sure to watch it at least once every year. And unlike other “classics“ like Christmas Vacation or Home Alone, it isn't something that I play in the background while trimming the tree, no, this one always means full on "phone off, lights out, movie night".  

And  Capra's masterpiece also happens to be the first film to use a special type of foam instead  of white cornflakes  to make it snow in Hollywood.  That's petty cool, right?

Do you have that one special Christmas movie you make sure to watch every year? Let me know, comment below!

Peace, Love and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 18: Nautical or Nice

My family does Christmas pretty casual, comfort is key - so my Christmas outfits hardly differ from my usual stripes and scarves uniform.  Weather it's a sweater or shirt with skinny jeans, or a dress - just add a big snood and make this nautical look wintery warm.  Here are a couple of my favorites:

                                                           Source: laurafaiss.polyvore.com via Laura on Pinterest

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Peace, Love and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 17: Put Down The Remote!

I think December is the only time of the year I don't change the channel as soon as the commercial breaks come on. Why? Because there's no program that could beat  Christmas Commercials! Here's my top 3:

3) GAP (2009)

I love these annoying kids, and yes I do know all the lyrics and steps...  

2) Coca Cola (1996)

The red Starbuck's cups of my childhood - it's simply not Christmas until the trucks come out. I even go to see the real one everytime it's in town ...and I don't even drink coke.

1) Tommy Hilfiger (2011) 

Is it possible to live in a commercial? If yes, then I really want to spend Christmas at the Hilfiger house.  So. Much. Plaid.

What's your favorite Christmas or holiday commercial? Let me know, comment below!

Peace, Love and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 16: Red Noses and Salty Antlers

How cute are those little reindeer snacks I found on Pinterest? And guess, what, they are super easy to make, too. 

                                                  Source: andeverythingsweet.blogspot.com via Laura on Pinterest

All you need are heart shaped finger sandwiches (salty or sweet, anything goes from the classic peanut butter and jelly to cream cheese, or maybe even pâté if you´re feeling adventurous), and pretzels and M&Ms for the antlers and faces.

Peace, Love and Mistletoe

Laura

Day 15: Oh Christmas Tree

Technically you were supposed to see my amazing, futuristic designer Christmas tree here... But that thing turned out to be a safety hazard, and not the pretty kind.... So the dangling tin mess went back to the store, and I am treeless - but not decoration-less:

Aren't they precious? And the colors, and vintage look go perfectly with my office.  Much better than the metal torture device that tree number one turned out to be. 

What's your favorite decoration? Tweet me pictures!

Peace, Love and Mistletoe

Laura 

Day 14: Berry Christmas

Invited to a holiday party this weekend? Put the gold eye shadow, and fire engine red lipstick down, and try pairing a sheer eye makeup with a berry stained lip instead. It's a festive look that will definitely get you noticed. Here's a tutorial using my favorite berry color Burberry's Lip Mist in "Blueberry":

Love the look, but don't want to splurge? Try Maybeline's Color Sensational in "Plum Perfect", Clinique's Chubby Stick in "Voluptuous Violet", or Ardeco's "Black Dhalia" from the Dita von Teese collection for drugstore alternatives.  

Find Us

Peace, Love and Mistletoe

Laura

Day 13: Christmas at the Plaza

Do you have a favorite children's book character? Mine's a little girl living at the Plaza Hotel. That's right it's Eloise, and even though the movies did not come out until I had already outgrown the books I still adore them, especially the Christmas one. Here's my favorite scene:

But it's not only Eloise's spunky personality that made her so appealing, no that girl also had style! And her classic white blouse and black skirt combo, makes for a pretty dashing holiday look:

shop

Wear a boyfriend shirt for a more grown-up look, some patterned tights instead of her signature knee socks, add a pair of black patent oxfords (short skirt = short heel!), and you're good to go jamming with Bill, Christmas shopping with Nanny, or whatever else you have on your holiday to-do list.

Peace, Love and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 12: Hump Day Homework "(Not) Home for Christmas"

Here's your second Hump Day Homework assignment of the month, and it's something for those who like to spend Christmas on the road or up in the air...

Watch: Good Luck Charlie it's Christmas (2011)

It's for kids, but It's Christmas and brilliant so who cares... Cancelled flights,  zany travel companions, and  a car named Yugo lead to an hilarious journey from  Denver to Palm Springs.  And the soundtrack is (in old Disney Channel fashion) pretty awesome, too. 

Listen to: Cabin Pressure Christmas Special

listen to me

Ever wondered what an improvised Christmas Party on an airplane is like? Just listen to the Cabin Pressure Christmas special to find out how hilarious it really can be.  The crew has to spend Christmas aboard Gerti, captain Martin tries his best to make this one an unforgettable holiday, and as per usual it ends in heartfelt disaster.

Read:  The Con Artist of Catalina Island (A McAfee Twins Christmas Novel)

read me

Silent Night? Chestnuts roasting on an open fire? Not for the McAfee Twins. The detective's well deserved Christmas vacation turns into a murder investigation, and they soon find themselves in a dangerous web of lies, deceit, and holiday debacles. Add a toothless poodle, Uncle Robert in a Santa Suit, and it's just another family Christmas for Kerry and Terry  McAfee. 

...Wait, we're not done yet, today I have an early Christmas present for my fellow bibliophiles:

CLICK ME

It's a coupon for my favorite online store! Just enter BOOKWORM at checkout to get 20% off all tees - but it's only good for today!

Peace, Love and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 11: Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree

What's the best thing about Christmas besides cheesy made for TV movies? Christmas songs of course! Here's my top 5:

1) Capital Lights:  His favorite Christmas Story

I heard this one last year at H&M, and loved it so much that I downloaded it in the store (gotta do something while waiting in those long lines). And no matter how often I hear it, the story still gives me goosebumps every single time. 

2) Everclear: Santa Baby

Santa Baby, sung by a guy with a raspy voice. Enough said.

3) Kingston (Carter Twins): Let it Snow!

I love these guys! They are one of the most genuine, sweetest, and talented artists out there, and Let It Snow is my favorite Christmas classic. It's a combination that can't be beat (unless, of course, they'd be singing Santa Baby).

...that looks like fun.

4) We Shoot The Moon: Up On The House Top

Another classic, but I with a modern twist, and lots of whistling ...and it's so fun to sing along. Go ahead, try it!  

5) Sufjan Stevens: Lumberjack Christmas/No One Can save you From Christmases Past

This one is hands down my favorite from Sufjan's overwhelming Christmas Album (59 songs!). The honest lyrics, the interesting beat, the silly "ho, ho, ho"s - it's a song that stands out in the best way possible.

Bonus:

6) The Summer Set: Old Mexico

Technically not a Christmas song, but it's on the band's Holiday album, and you need something for New Year's Eve besides Auld Lang Syne, right? 

Which is your favorite Christmas Song? Let me know, comment below!

Peace, Love and Mistletoe

Laura

Day 10: Gift Guide: For the Nerd

With so many geek-tastic  things out there  it was hard to choose just a few, but I eventually narrowed it down to this:

                                                 Source: laurafaiss.polyvore.com via Laura on Pinterest

 

How cool is the iron Man MacBook decal?  And who wouldn't want to try a Ninjabread man? Etsy, and Urban Outfitters are the places to find something for the Sheldon Cooper in your life. 

Peace, Love and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 9: Ugly Christmas Sweaters

Are you one of those awesome people who don't take themself too seriously? If your answer is yes, then you are going to love this: 

It's your very own ugly Christmas sweater maker! Stop by the site to browse through the amazingly tacky creations, or design your own to share with your friends. Here's mine:  

…I'd totally rock this with some leather leggings and red flats.

So go ahead, check it out, make your own, and tweet me your creations!  I can't wait to see what you come up with!

Peace, Love, and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 8: Holiday Allstars

As much as I  love my UGGs and Wellies, sometimes a cool pair of Sneakers can't be beat, and who says that you have to put them away for the winter?

                                                      Source: laurafaiss.polyvore.com via Laura on Pinterest

I don't think any type of shoe has ever sparked more love or hate controversy than the wedge sneaker, and yes I was on the hate side - until I tried on a pair of Isabel Marants and stepped right over to the love side. However, they were a little out of my price range for something that (despite being awesome!) still wouldn't really go with my wardrobe... So I got amazing lookalikes from ASOS for only 60 bucks.  

…And if the wedges still aren't your thing, how about the shearling lined high-tops from Tory Burch?

Peace, Love and Mistletoe

Laura

Day 7: Gift Guide: For the Bookworm

Booklovers are easy to shop for, right? Wrong. Books may be easy to buy, but  you never know what your friends already have in their bookshelves. But don't fret, there are still plenty of options:

                                           Source: laurafaiss.polyvore.com via Laura on Pinterest

Their favorite book in form of a poster?  Feminist theories by everyone's favorite Actor Dude? Notebooks, phone cases, tote bags,  and sweaters?  The options are endless. And even if you still want to surprise your bibliophile friend with a book, you can always use the matching Out of Print tote as a gift bag.

Peace, Love and Mistletoe

Laura

Day 6: Soaper Heroes

I am crazy for anything Soap and Glory, the adorable packaging, the delicious scent, and just the overall awesomeness of the products (I even know guys who seceretly love them). And for the holidays the pink Soaper Heroes came up with some extra glorious sets and deals that you can find  here, here (Europe), and here (US).

Peace, Love, and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 5: Hump Day Homework "Christmas Stories"

It's time for your weekly Hump Day Homework (Christmas edition): 

Watch: Christmas Every Day (1996)

This is the one that started it all! Started what? The ABC Family (back then known as the Family Channel) Christmas Movies! Yes that's right, this Christmassy homage to Groundhog Day, that starred the oh so dreamy Erik von Detten as a frustrated teenager reliving Christmas day over and over again, was the first of many awesome made for TV Christmas movies. And that alone is reason enough to check it out.

Listen To: Tis The Season to be Fearless

listen to me

This is hands down the coolest Christmas album I own. And it's perfect for those wanting something a little deeper (and louder) than roasting chestnuts. Highlights: Breathe Carolina's Mile High Christmas and The Maine's Ho Ho Hopefully.

Read: Christmas Fanfiction

  

Shameless self promotion, but my own Christmas Stories actually go quite well with this week's theme. So check them out if you're a Psych, Castle, or Sherlock fan. 

Peace, Love and Mistletoe

Laura

Day 4: Show Me Your Hooves

Show your Christmas spirit with this impressive but easy to do manicure. All you need is a glitter base, brown polish (I recommend OPI's Suzi Loves Cowboys), and black, white, red and gold  for the accents (use a toothpick if you don't have any dotting tools).

                                                          Source: google.com via Laura on Pinterest

Et voilà, Santa's reindeer on your nails. Can you name them all?

Peace, Love, and Mistletoe
Laura

Day 3: Santa Claus is coming to town…

 …through your TV screens. 

In honor of the long anticipated Castle Christmas Special airing tonight, here's the top 5 of my all time favorite Christmas Specials (watch them if you haven't yet!):

5) The O.C., "The Chrismukk-huh?" (2006)

The most controversial choice on the list. People seem to either love or hate this episode, that plays with the idea of what had happened if Ryan had never come to Newport - But I for one can't get enough of the show's take on my favorite Christmas movie (It's a Wonderful Life). 

4) Psych, "Christmas Joy" (2008)

Another slightly controversial one. I know that a lot of people really dislike this episode, but I can't help it, I'm a simply sucker for a funny Christmas ep, and this one had reindeer, and a Santa Baby montage…  

3) Remington Steele, "Dancer, Prancer, Donner and Steele" (1985)

The agency's Christmas party takes a turn for the worse when three Santas take the detectives and their party guests hostage - but what really makes this, is the unexpected twist that ends with a motorcycle chase in a Christmas tree lot.

2) The Middle, "A Simple Christmas" (2010)

Maybe it reminds me of the family Christmases when I was a kid, maybe I just enjoy chaos,  but few things are as entertaining as a Heck family Christmas. And I'm already looking forward to this year's Christmas special.  

And on number one, my all time favorite Christmas episode...

1) The Twilight Zone, "Night of The Meek"  (1960)

Nothing will ever live up to the magic of Night of the Meek. It isn't among the most shocking or "cool" episodes, but I will never forget Henry Corvin and the magic burlab bag. 

So what are your favorite Christmas Specials? Let me know comment below!

Peace, Love and Mistletoe

Laura 

Day 2: Gift Guide: For The Magpie

Here's the first of many gift guides, and this one is for those who like to sparkle during the holidays...and the rest of the year.

                               Source: laurafaiss.polyvore.com via Laura on Pinterest

My personal favorite is the Ciaté Caviar Mini Bar, not only is the packaging absolutely adorable, but the unique polish is a must for any nail polish addict.The set comes with 4 classic polishes, and 4 bottles of the famous caviar pearls. Yum. 

And the best? All these goodies are available via ASOS (yay worldwide free shipping!), and under 40 bucks (ok, the Disney Couture bracelet is a tiny bit over the budget, but it's so cute!)

Peace, Love, and Mistletoe

Laura

Day 1: Dear Santa...

No better way to start this then with my very own Christmas list:

                                           Source: laurafaiss.polyvore.com via Laura on Pinterest

1) A Burberry Bespoke Trench, that would probably look a lot like the pictured one, but maybe navy with brown sleeves, or tan with beige, but it would definitely have a zipper....  Seriously there is nothing I want more than this. Nothing. 

2) A pair of Golden Goose Boots: Effortlessly awesome, and fabulously rugged - just like pretty much everything I love.

3) Marc Jacobs Mouse Flats: When I'm not wearing boots I live in flats, and these have whiskers. Whiskers. 

4) Crosley Keepsake USB Record player: Yup, I still don't own this...  

5) Monogram pendant necklace: If it doesn't move, monogram it, especially if it's shiny. 

6) Ship To Shore Sideboard: The Crosley would look so good on it...

7) A canvas print of Dashiell Hammett, 'cause who wouldn't want that? 

8) Anything Soap&Glory. Anything (well anything from the classic line, because this one is deadly allergic to all fruity scented things)

What's on top of your wish list this year? Let me know, comment below! 

Peace, Love, and Mistletoe

Laura

Countdown to Christmas

Remember those chocolate calendars you had as a kid? Well, I have something much cooler for you: Starting tomorrow I will surprise you with a little gimmick, shopping tip, holiday recipe, D.I.Y,  or other christmassy thing every day until Christmas Eve.  Exciting, right?

                                                       Source: fiskarscrafts.com via Laura on Pinterest

To busy to stop by each day? Subscribe via email (sidebar, under my picture), and you'll get the calendar delivered right to your phone.  Like your very own advent calendar app.

Peace, Love and Serendipity
Laura

Black Friday Deals

Anthropologie is having 20% off clothing and 10% off on home, and added many new things to the sales rack, like the Georgina bedding (which I would get in a heartbeat if it would fit on my bed...)

Antropologie

Use BLACKFRIDAYBONUS to get 20% off on Asos where you will find the perfect Christmas gift for anyone:

 

Marc Jacobs watch &Ralph Lauren Sweater

And last but not least, Modcloth is  having 50% off on selected items. Wanna ring in the NewYear like it's 1929? Look no further:

Art Deco Ball Dress

Happy Shopping!

Peace, Love, and Serendipity
Laura

Hump Day Homework: Rainy Day

In between working on my ebay shop, homework, and grad school paperwork, I simply forgot about Hump day Homework (how is it already Wednesday?) - Still, I am determined to give you a new assignment, even if it's just a very short one...

Check Out: Rainy Mood

source

The sound of rain is one of the most relaxing things since hot showers and camomile tea, and thanks to RainyMood.Com you don't even need an umbrella to enjoy it. The site has rain, thunder, and a song of the day - So take a look and enjoy your personal rainstorm!

Want a pocket rainstorm?  Get the Rainy Mood App for iPhone/iPad or Android.

Peace, Love, and Serendipity

Laura

Goldfinger

O.P.I  always comes out with a couple of movie inspired collections over the year, but in most cases the company tends to draw inspiration from Disney or Marvel. This holiday season, however, we get to choose between 12 shades that are inspired by no other than Bond, James Bond. 

Source

The SKYFALL collection is as expected on a darker, very glamorous, side - but overall I am not too impressed. There are a few interesting glitter polishes (The Living Daylights, The World is not Enough), but I am simply not a fan of all the reds and purples - It's just nothing new, and the pink tint doesn't feel very Bond. 

BUT there is something in the collection that caught my eye, something truly spectacular, something... just see for yourself:

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It's an 18 karat gold top coat. That's right real gold. The clear polish has flakey bits of gold leaf and will turn any base into a work of art.  The only downside is the price ($38) - Christmas list maybe?

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There's only one more thing: Why isn't this one named Goldfinger? Wouldn't that have been the much punier option? what were you thinking O.P.I.?

Peace, Love, and Serendipity

Laura

Geeking Out: Moo

Even as a child I always wanted my own business cards. I usually stole my dad's crossed out his name, and put ninja turtle or pony stickers on them - and they looked awesome.

...But I found something even more awesome. And that something is MOO. The London based company offers a huge range of personalized business and greetings cards, stickers, notebooks, and other little things. Personally, I am a huge fan of their MiniCards (see picture below). The unique size and endless design possibilities make them stand out - which is exactly what a business card should do.

The only downside is the price, the MiniCards aren't the cheapest option out there BUT I tried others and nothing lives up to the quality, design (and packaging!) of Moo. And if you're still not convinced why not order yourself a couple of Facebook Cards? Moo creates them with the data/pictures from your Facebook profile, lets you add a nice quote, and the best part? They are free. Yes free. For a limited time you can order a free 50 card sample - so hurry up and start designing! 

Want more? Use this link and get 10% off your first order: http://www.moo.com/share/jhsjyb

Peace, Love, and Serendipity
Laura

Hump Day Homework: Let's Stay in Bed...

Need an excuse to spend the day in bed?  Well here are three hauntingly good reasons to do a little daydreaming... 

Watch: Elvis and Anabelle (2007)

Beautiful, funny, and haunting - these three words best describe this underrated masterpiece of a movie.  The trailer suggests that the love story between the young mortician and the pageant queen is a comedy, the premise of said pageant queen dying, coming back to life, and falling in love with the mortician makes it sound like a horror movie - but what the movie actually is is a love letter to life so beautiful it'll make any Nicholas Sparks romance look pale in comparison.

Read: Jeffrey Eugenides: The Virgin Suicides

Read Me

Oh the nights I spent in my playhouse trying to unfold the mystery of the entrancing Lisbon sisters... The narrators of this haunting but tender story about growing up, try to recall (and make sense of) a family tragedy that disturbed their quiet home town, Grosse Pointe, Michigan, during the 1970s. A book like this comes along once in a 100 years. It's the unique narrative style, the mystery that extends to the the narrators, that pulls you in, and will haunt you for years to come. What really happened? We will never know but neither will anyone else, and there's a strange comfort in that.

Listen To: Joshua Radin: Underwater 

Listen to me

The guy who brought you Paperweight has a new album out, and that's all you need to know. 

Peace, Love and Serendipity
Laura