Fashionable Affair

Sweet Tooth

2012-02-05T22:04:00.000-05:00

My weekends have been pretty chill, which honestly I don't mind since my weekday/nights have been jammed packed. It maybe just what I need, time to recoup, relax, and recharge for another jam packed week ahead.

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Friday, I went to the Y with April , she took the time to show me how to do some toning and how to use some of the weight machines. I had yet to venture to that side of my gym out of sheer intimidation. April taught me a lot and I am really excited about really getting toned. I've lost 15/16lbs on cardio and healthy eating alone. Now its time build my muscles. Muscle is better than fat. Let me just say that on Saturday, I was freaking sore! And even today I can still feel some soreness, but I am so excited to start this. I am making a plan to work it into my busy schedule tomorrow. You can't wait for time, you gotta make the time.

So I am going to go from talking about time in the gym and toning to talking about Valentine's Day chocolate. When it comes to chocolate, I don't like generic plain chocolate...unless it is high quality GOOD chocolate... Since I am being honest, I don't even like plain chocolate ice cream. There I said it. It is out there. (Now Nutella is a different story, I will eat the heck out of a jar of Nutella).

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Look at that plate of deliciousness. That is my kind of indulgeness. I just may have to create some for this weekend or just for the me on the 14th. Unless someone want to go out and celebrate single-hood on
V-Day?

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Now this is my kind of set. Truffles. Different flavors not just pure plain target. Red velvet. Creme Brulee. Yes, please. Can I just say that again...YES, PLEASE!

Okay, well that is it for another Valentine's Day countdown. Hope you all enjoyed the Super Bowl, the commercials, the half time show, and THE GIANTS WIN!

XO
-Jen

Single Serving

2012-02-01T21:44:00.000-05:00

Today is the first day of February and for the last two years I've done a Valentine's Day series. I mostly do this series for me; to keep me from getting bitter for being single around the day of love. This way I make it a little series on the blog and its fun. Lots of red, pink, chocolate, and dreams of jewelry.

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Who say's this bow tie has to be for men, I mean really how adorable would this be paired with colored pants? Hello, can say Brad Goreski inspired! I am really in love with this!

I wish I had more to say tonight but working long stress filled days has been lacking the energy to even look at the computer and I promised I would turn off the TV at 9:30 - and that was 8mins ago....but I just have to know how the Micheal episode of Glee ends. Til Day 2 of Valentine's Countdown.

XO
-Jen

Who Was I Kidding?

2012-01-26T23:04:00.000-05:00

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Remember my whole I am going to take a break from Facebook? Yeah, that didn't last. Maybe the whole cold turkey thing wasn't the way to go. I am not kidding as soon as I said no Facebook, I received two friend requests and a message from a friend arranging a surprise for another friend, couldn't ignore that. It was like the itch the social media addict needed.

Remember how last week was one heck of a week with a long list of crazy things that happened? Well this week was one helluvah week. We had training all week and barely anytime during the regular work hours to get normal work tasks done. On top of that I had an event last night and then there was a mid-sized crisis. After my freak-out (where all the stress from the week...and last week...came crashing down on me I went into the storage closet had a mini cry), I got it together and the event was a success.

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I came across this dress on Nasty Gal (I keep inadvertently typing nasty girl, don't go there...it is probably porn) and fell in love. Since last year at this time when I was setting my goals for 2011, I weighed 15lbs heavier. Even though I didn't reach all of my weight goals for 2011, I am pretty darn proud of myself about how far I have come and have a new found confidence. I also have a lot of new space in my closet from getting rid of clothes that are now to big. Unfortunately, when it comes to jeans I am in-between sizes...size 6 is too big and size 4 is too small. I guess I just need to keep trying on different fits and brands.

Back to the dress, what I love about the dress is the subtle sexiness of this dress. Then the back reveals the scalloped detailing an opens up for a wonderful backless look. Perfect for spring with the coral coloring and the subtle leopard print belt is the perfect added touch to cinch in the waist.

I hope you all have a fab weekend! I plan on relaxing after my weekly yoga session and stopping by Fifi's to work on next week's post. Does anyone have anything exciting going on? Any big purchases? I would love to hear about them! Share them on the Facebook page!

XO
-Jen

The Glory of Facebook

2012-01-22T00:40:00.000-05:00

I realized I haven't adequately used the Facebook fan page. I am taking a break from my personal Facebook page; I am doing it to focus more on the blog. Getting away from all the clutter and constant blech of having 700+ friends will do to a person. It will make anyone a little crazy. I decided on Friday morning to take that distraction away so I could do more here and use my Facebook fan page more. I think it is cheating just a little bit on my break from Facebook. What can I say, I am in detox...you can't just break away cold turkey! I am doing the best that I can. These are the words of an addict. So click on the graphic. Like the page. I will be interacting more there and it will post to Twitter as well. So follow me on Twitter, too!

On The Block

2012-01-21T00:38:00.000-05:00

It is finally Friday and I have to say it was one heck of a week at work. The thing is it was a short week too, and I think that is what made it rough. Lots to do not enough time and crazy things happening in the office. I was going to type out to you all that happened to us in the office, but why? To relive the stress? I am sure you all had stressful weeks as well. What's the freaking point, right? I will put it into a few short points. Tuesday: Meetings. Loss of power. New printer. Wednesday: Someone may or may not have gone Office Space on their computer. No internet connection or email. Stupid Time Warner. Waste of time training on new printer interfering with my already short week. Given a good size last minute assignment in the midst of the craziness. Thursday: Printer guys are still there in the way of my productivity. Phones are not working. Old printer that is printing a large job (my job) breaks creates awkwardness when old tech comes in while new techs are there.
I think that says it all. I will be running some errands over the weekend to get prepared for a week-long training session at the office next week (basically all-day meetings, but hey at least I am being fed).

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Despite totally not wanting to get out of bed early this morning, I did. I showered. Put on workout clothes and made my way to yoga class. Two weeks in a row. I am proud of myself. This time was better. The instructor wasn't glued to my side constantly adjusting where my body was positioned. Last week, I felt like the slow kid in 1st grade that can't stop eating paste and the teacher has to continually say "now now we don't eat paste." In the next week be on the look out for my health-inspired blog post, I've been thinking on it all day today.

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Despite the bad photo shopping in this photo, I am loving this dress. If you didn't know already yellow is such a hot item for spring, so evaluate your closet - check your skin tone to see if you can pull it off. Then stock up. I will be honest with you all here, I am hating the shoes, not just with the dress but all around. What do you think of the shoes? Ick. For some reason the words moon shoes come to mind. That is the only thing not working for me in this look.

I hope you all have a fashionable weekend. Enjoy yourselves. I am going to try and relax and breath. May catch a movie by myself.

XO!
-Jen

Glitz & Glam

2012-01-18T21:20:00.000-05:00

This weekend was nice kind of busy but chill. Love those kind of weekends, plus I had Monday off. Can I get a holla? Okay, yea...I am a bit too white girl preppy to say that. I take it back.

I was blessed enough to have lots of time with my gal pals. I hosted my 3 best friends over for dinner and baby L, which is always fun. LB is currently expecting so there will be another little girl at our girls. It is still hard all the baby talk. I tune it out, now instead of complain about it. Dinner turned out delish, I love new when new recipes turn out so well.

Saturday I spent most of the day going through my closet trying on the clothes I already own, and making a box for Goodwill, a box for consignment, and a box to take to a friend. Since I've joined my gym I've dropped about 14lbs, I am a lil shy of that 15th pound. So I had pants in my closet that were just falling off of me, quite literally. So I am at about 120 now, my goal would be 115 but why not keep going and go for 110 but I think once I hit 115 my ultimate goal would be to tone up. My goal was to lose 20lbs in 2011, well that didn't exactly happen because I didn't get serious about it until July. So I am not doing so bad.

As we all know the Golden Globes were on Sunday evening, and though I DVR'd the red carpet coverage everyone said there wasn't much to see, so I just headed over to JustJared.com to see the Best & Worst of the red carpet and here are a few of my faves. My next post will be a delightful little color block dress that I just die for. So be on the look out, I was going to post it today then I realized I had yet to do any GG coverage. So now you must wait ::insert evil laugh here::

Reese Witherspoon in Zac Posen

Mila Kunis in Dior

Evan Rachel Wood in Gucci

Claire Danes in J Mendel

Zooey Deschanel in Prada

Who was your favorite? I have to admit I was so thrilled that Claire Danes won for Homeland because I love the show and its filmed in Charlotte. Whoop. Whoop.

Work Like A Boss

2012-01-11T22:14:00.000-05:00

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I know that I have mentioned that work has been nuts-o, my load is incredible. On the days I go home for lunch, I've been staying late to get what I can done. Having the pup makes it hard, I don't want to be the kind of owner that neglects their dog.

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I have to admit that I am pretty lucky that our dress code is relaxed and I have the freedom to mix it up. I am in love with this look from Banana Republic from their new arrivals. It has the perfect mix of matching color and that pop of color with the yellow belt. It really is just the perfect combination and classy for work.

Romance

2012-01-10T23:08:00.000-05:00

I opened my mail box today only to find a magazine with a bright pink cover and a heart made of pink hearts and for once it didn't bother me. I didn't get bitter, I didn't get a scowl on my face, I look forward to going through my Martha Stewart Living. It also inspired my post for this evening, lovely lace. I think so many times lace can be synonymous with being blatantly sexy for women with it can have an everyday romantic look. I found four lace tops starting with a high-end expense to an everyone can afford.

Stella McCartney - Floral Lace Blouse ($1,495)

I must say I've been back to work a week and a half since Christmas vacation; let me just say I feel like I've been working non-stop for weeks straight. My workload is on overload. Serious overload and I haven't even touched my normal weekly tasks this week which concerns me since tomorrow Wednesday. Eeek.

Top Shop - Lace Tee ($70)

I have to admit though I am glad to be back into a routine of work, I was getting a little bored at home and most of my friends out of town. How is everyone else doing now that the holidays are over? Are you already looking forward to another break? I am lucky enough to get Monday off for MLK! Yay me.

Ruche - Luminescent Lace Top ($46.99)

When I was searching for these lace pieces, I realized how little lace I actually have in my wardrobe. But there are some really gorgeous pieces out there that you can just wear every day. How much lace do you have in your wardrobe--we are speaking of outerwear here--I don't want to know about your underwear collection that is a totally different website.

Mod Retro - A Lace for Us ($34.99)

I have to say of the four tops my favorite is from Ruche (and if you are looking for a website that has Anthropologie like clothing but for less - Ruche is the way to go - check them out!). What is your favorite of the four tops?

Sunshine on a Cloudy Day

2012-01-09T21:48:00.000-05:00

It was a cloudy grey and cold day in the Queen City, one of those days that you want to stay on the couch with a book or a movie. But alas worked beckoned so I could not stay at home, so I put on a cute little outfit and did my hair, because you know it didn't get wet or go flat or anything.

Louis Feraud Vintage Dress

I have been lacking inspiration/time/computer cooperation but I was determined to turn it around and my mom has been so encouraging for me to be blogging. I saw this dress it was instant inspiration on such cloudy day. This brightly beautiful printed vintage dress, how could it not be posted onto my blog. I would love to see it paired with something bright and fuschia blazer and high strappy heel. Can you just see it? Flawless, right?

I've been blogging for Fifi's in the Lake Norman area weekly and if you live in the area, I would really encourage you to check them and my weekly post for them as well. If you are in the area and want some help putting together a look I would be more than happy to shop with you. Shopping is always more fun with a partner. Now to enjoy the rest of my evening, going to curl up with my pup with the fire place on.

Brad Brad World

2012-01-03T21:09:00.002-05:00

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It's a Brad Brad World premiered last night, it was ah-mazing. I love Brad. And I love Rachel Zoe. It is like being torn between two divorced parents. Did you watch the show? What did you think? Who do you like more Brad or Rachel Z?

My fave part of the show....besides Brad...that Swed (pictured above) in the bright pieces and the itty bitty shorts.

I have a feeling if I knew Brad in real life we would be the best of friends.

Want a pink blazer...look no further than here!

Happy 2012 (I AM BACK!)

2012-01-02T18:13:00.000-05:00

I don't know why I haven't been blogging, I think it has been a lack of inspiration and fire under my butt.
I hope everyone had a great holiday, I had a jam packed December which was great. I absolutely love the Christmas season, it is my favorite.

I hope everyone had a fabulous New Year's Eve! I had a great time but definitely did not take enough pictures. Thanks, to Kelly and her hubby, Brad for throwing a excellent party. It is always nice to have a good NYE, especially when you are single. Don't want to spend it alone at home.

Here is a picture recap of the month of December.

Kids' Community Christmas program at church

Girls Night Dinner - Dinner, Gifts & Gift Wrapping
Lillian helped with the gift wrapping

Cookie Exchange Party #1

My lil Christmas tree

My front door - no other decor

Ice Skating

Callie!

Cookie Exchange #2

With my brother, in Edisto Island for a pre-Christmas dinner with my family

That is Christmas in a nutshell. I got a very great gift from my parents...a new TV! Finally got rid of the tube TV. Hope everyone had a fab Christmas...and I am back baby!

Shop Local

2011-12-06T12:40:00.001-05:00

This Christmas season is upon us and I am a crazy person! I am doing things for everyone except for myself it seems.

So if you are missing my blog here is a recent blog post I did for Fifi's! Happy Shopping my love.

What is On Your Wish List?

Here it comes!

2011-11-23T20:18:00.001-05:00

30 Days of Thankfulness

Day #21. Movies! I am all about a good movie. Helps during all times - happy, sad, rainy days...you name it. I love curling up with a movie.

Day #22. I am extremely thankful for co-workers who are helpful, especially during short weeks in the midst of the holidays!

Day #23. Days off! I enjoy the time I have off from work. So great.

Day #24. To spend Thanksgiving Day with my family! I love them so much and thank God everyday with them.

Day #25. To have the money to spoil my family with Christmas gifts - and to ::this:: close to being done with my brother...now to cross everyone else off the list.

Day #26. My big comfy bed. I love my bed. It is one of the first big purchases I made for my house after I bought it. It makes for a nice nights sleep.

Day #27. For my church, on days like this when I miss service...I realize how much I miss service!

Yay for Thanksgiving! I really enjoyed spending the day with my family and cooking in the kitchen with my mom. When I came home from spending time with my family I did have a little bit of a pity party on my part. While I was unpacking my Christmas I saw the Christmas ornament I bought last year after the season a 2010 Christmas in our new home....and I guess I didn't realize it said our and it made me a little sad. I kind of sulked the next day.

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After working on my count your blessing list, I realized there was no need to sulk. I woke up Friday and worked out. I did a bit of Christmas shopping for my brother, almost have him crossed off of my list. One more item and he will be done. When I came home I decorated and just enjoyed the time I had off from work. Because now that the Christmas season is upon work is going to be nuts-o. For serious.

What I love about the holidays ...the holiday dresses! Unfortunately at the moment all of my holiday parties are quite casual so I have no were to wear these beauties to. There first two, the white & red, are the same dress from Anthropologie. The paisley dress, is also from Anthropologie but I love it because it is bold and different. I think it is unexpected for a holiday party, not one that you would normally see. It just makes me smile.

All of the above dresses are from Forever21 and are more budget friendly...much more budget friendly!

So tell me my fashion loving friends, do you have dressy holiday parties to attend? What do you plan to wear?

I hope you all had a fabulous Thanksgiving. Don't forget to hit the gym this week. Work off those holiday calories so you can enjoy all the Christmas cookies and goodies to come.

Snack.Snack.Snack.

2011-11-16T21:25:00.001-05:00

30 Days of Thankfulness

Day #16. A warm drink from Starbucks. I am not really a Starbucks addicted like others I know, since I am not really a fan of coffee. However, I do enjoy a frap or a chai tea (warm or with ice) and especially on cold wet days in the winter who doesn't love to warm up with hot drink.

Day #17. My mom - I have a very close relationship with her and cannot imagine my life without her. I call for almost everything.

Day #18. For the hope of the future. There are times whens I become saddened by being single but after weeks like this one - in which every night brought something new, even if it was work - I realize that there is hope in the future.

Day #19. My cellular device. As annoying as the past few replacement phones have been, the convenience of it makes life so much more easy and fun.

Day #20. For old friends, the friends that even though you don't talk to all the time you can pick up the phone when too much time as passed and talk as though none has passed at all. Those kind of times bless my heart.

This was quite busy for me and even though I didn't mind it at all, I did see how each day my house was getting more and more neglected as was the pup. And let me just say, she let me know when she was displeased with me. So today I made sure was well taken care of and looked after by taking her to the park for two hrs while I saw my dad play flag football with his coworkers.

Let's back up a few days and let me tell you that as of Thursday night, I am now the officially the president of the HOA. Now whether that is a good thing or not only time will tell, though I do believe the board needed some young blood. The old man that is still on the board is quite adorable but since he is retired he has a whole lot of time on his hands to be much more involved. After the meeting on Thursday I headed to the movie theater to meet up with Tisha to see the first installment of Breaking Dawn at midnight. Don't hate. I will tell you that the first movie was a bit amateurishness but this movie...was incredible!

On Friday, I ran errands to make this lovely little dessert...I did substitute raspberries for blackberries and put them in pre-made crusts. When I got home I had a package on the door step waiting for me of samples of ReCharge from a local company, Tropical Foods. I was to going to to break them open as work snacks but as of today, I couldn't wait to get a little taste. I popped open the Super-Charged Cranberry Blend which includes pomegrante infused cranberries, omega-3 fortified cranberries, dark chocolate, and almonds. I am addicted. I am a self-proclaimed snack-aholic, which is why I try not to keep unhealthy snack in the house. Knowing it is good for me, makes it all the better. Be on the look out this week for the rest of tastings and reviews of the product. I have a feeling it is going to be yummy.
And back to Friday....after to my lil food rant....Friday night was at Irene's - of course it was fun filled with food, laughs, girl talks and a slightly cranky baby. Though I have to say my girls night in, end too early - girls if you are reading this you are too young to be a calling it a night by 9.

The rest of the weekend was me being a bit lazy...reading...eating...and reading so more adding a movie or two in there. Overall it was a nice low key weekend, which is just what I needed coming off of a week when every night after work I had something going on.

Ok, I have to stop typing and start reading so I will put up with cranberry blend...told you I was a snacker.

Can You Hear Me Now?

2011-11-15T22:26:00.001-05:00

30 Days of Thankfulness

Day #15. I am incredibly thankful for my MawMaw - she is my fave and as the oldest grandchild it automatically makes me her fave. Sorry everyone, I just speak truth. ::wink::wink:: The older I get the more I see how much I am like my MawMaw and my mom...and I love that.

I know that I did not mention this on the blog last week, but my MawMaw had surgery on her bladder because they found a cancerous tumor...and being as stubborn as she is she didn't tell any of us until after the her surgery. Thankfully they caught it early and got it all. That is why today's thankfulness is dedicated to her.

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Have you ever had those moments like in a movie or in a dream where you feel like you are jumping up and down yelling but nothing is coming out? That is kind of how I feel right now. I don't know what to do. I am glad that I have places where I feel like I can be heard and express myself. What do you do when you are feeling cornered? I feel like this is why I've had a hard time getting creative on the blog as well. I've just decided I can't let it get to me. No more tears - let it inspire me not tear me down.

Okay, so the weather in the Carolinas has been quite bipolar lately. Seriously. I think that is why I was feeling a bit under the weather on Sunday and been struggling with a sore throat. Today the high was in the mid-70's but I've been trying to keep to the fall trends and not revert back spring clothes. So today I wore a navy cotton dress with a faux fur vest so when it did get a bit too warm I could just slip off the vest.

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I got an email the other day from Paul Smith an UK clothing company and within this email was this fur headband that just captured my attention immediately - I mean look at it. Seriously look at it. It is just gorge. I am in love. I have a thing about fur. Its a love hate relationship. I am in love with the look of fur but I don't want any animals to suffer...so I love faux fur.

However, at $185 it is just a bit pricey for a headband. So I did a quick search on Etsy and found a few cheaper options to appease any budget. I think one of these lovelies will become a Christmas gift to myself or just be asking Santa for one.

Rabbit Fur Headband - $50

Faux Fur Headband - $20

Faux Fur - $12

So there is my winter love...and nice little headband to keep my ears nice and fashionable all at the same time. I am not one to wear ear muffs and by the way - I always end up saying ear muffins - like just then I wrote ear muffins. Its bad.

Good night my fashion lovers. Until tomorrow. XOXO!

A Cousin Visit

2011-11-13T21:44:00.001-05:00

30 Days of Thankfulness

Day #9. After spending last weekend with my cousin, Jamie, I would like to say how thankful I am of all my cousins.

Day #10. I am thankful the convenience of grocery stores and great food. Not everyone in the world is so lucky.

Day #11. Cards in the mail that make me smile.

Day. #12 For my dad. I love him so very much. I have such an incredible relationship with him!

Day. #13 For my health - even on days like today when I am not feeling well, I know there are so many others who are suffering and I am blessed to be healthy.

Day. #14 For my church, I love the support I have in them. The faith that is so strengthened by my church. I am so thankful for the growth that I get in the Word.

So I have to admit I am getting in a bit of a rut with my creativity. I think work has gotten my down it has been my road block. I hope in the next week or so it will change. Little things can become blocks in my creativity and it effects my blog. I am really going to work on pushing through the writers/creativity blocks and searching for inspiration. I get so many magazines that I should really use as my pieces of inspiration while just lying in bed. And hello, Pinterest!

A few weekends ago my cousin came to visit Charlotte for the weekend. I tried to show her the places in Charlotte that are real gems not just chain restaurants or typical places that you can see in every city. A day and a half is not enough, I cannot wait for her to come back to show her more.

On Friday night we had dinner at my house - something quick that I cooked up. Then we headed to NoDa for the gallery crawl. It wasn't as jumping as it usually is but we saw some great pieces and some live art pieces going down. Awe-some.

NoDa Gallery Crawl

After the gallery crawl I took Jamie to one of Charlotte's best known spots and one of my favorites, Amelie's! I got this coffee bar and this little mousse cup...I can't remember the name what Jamie got but I've gotten in the past and it is delish.

After Amelie's we headed back to the house and watched a chick flick and crashed. I let Jamie have my bed and I slept on the couch. The next morning we headed to the park to see my dad play flag football, it was bit cold so we didn't stay too long. He did really well, besides almost breaking his pinkie finger.

After freezing to death watching, I was going to say a bunch of old guys play football but my dad was the oldest guy out there...sorry, dad. We headed over to Zada Janes for what basically turned into brunch. While we were waiting for a table I saw on my twitter feed the guy from Man Vs. Food was filming at Price's Chicken Coop. So though we had plans to hit up the shops on Central we headed to the Price's- no luck ::insert sad face here::

I forgot to tell you what I had for lunch...that was almost the highlight of the day. I had the Brooker T - a sausage two egg frittata on top of sweet potato hash. YUM!

We went to all sorts of shops but there is an antique shop on Central that takes the cake...every time I go EVERYTHING IS 50% off - because it is JAMMED PACKED! Just look at that picture. I found a Lite Brite, the talking globe - do you remember those? The glass that had Tasmanian Devil on it from the jam jar on it. And no joke, probably what was the first jar of Vicks Vapor Rub...what the....shut the front door?! If you are looking for a super absurd off the wall gift - go here!

After our time shopping the world of obscure, we headed back to my place then to my parents for dinner and a game of Balderdash. Good times!

That was my weekend...two weekends ago! I loved it...cannot wait for another visit from Jamie...or any of my other cousins are welcome to visit as well! ::Hint::Hint::

BE THANKFUL

2011-11-08T22:18:00.000-05:00

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I know I've been MIA, work has just numbed me and then all weekend I didn't even turn on my computer because my cousin was in town which was an absolute blast. First, here is my guest post for Pinque Blog from Friday! Enjoy my fashion lovers.

Now onto my back-up list of 30 Days of Thankfulness...such a bad bloggie, I am. I need a lil netbook to tote with me..or an ipad along with more time and energy to be better.

30 Days of Thankfulness

Day #2. I have been incredibly blessed with a tight-knitted family and I love every moment of it. Though things cannot always be perfect it is in those times that character is built and I think those are the times that bring you closer together.

Day #3. For my pup, Callie. It is like the line in the Taylor Swift song "you are the best the thing that's ever been mine". I am so happy to come home to someone who loves me unconditionally and cheers me up when I am sad. She has been the best thing for me, being alone in the house.

Day #4. I am so blessed for my home! I just love that every time I get home...it is mine. Which has its stress but it is better than an apartment.

Day #5. For my job, I am blessed that during a time when the economy sucks to have such a good job.

Day #6. My car - that I am lucky to own a reliable car. That when it did have some trouble this year it was covered by Honda and now my almost 6year old car has a new engine. I am going to drive it til the wheels fall off.

Day #7. To be living in the city of Charlotte. I can't believe I have been here almost 10years, those 10years in this city have really shaped me. What I love about Charlotte is all that it has to offer!

Day #8. Not only do I love living in Charlotte but I am so thankful to live in the US of A. I am blessed to live in the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Okay, so that has me caught up on my days of thankfulness. What are you thankful for?

November Is.

2011-11-01T23:23:00.000-04:00

Today is November 1...though granted I am only a hour and a half away from it being November 2...and stores are already gearing up for Christmas. I feel like Thanksgiving and November really get the shaft and then I saw my teammate from Panther Purrsuit tweet #30daysofthankfulness and I just feel in love with the idea. I figured I could turn it into part of my blog posts.

Day #1 of 30 Days of Thankfulness

I am so thankful for my amazing family. I have been incredibly blessed with a tight-knitted family and I love every moment of it. Though things cannot always be perfect it is in those times that character is built and I think those are the times that bring you closer together.

This evening I finished up my guest post Pinque Blog, she is headed to NYC. I was so honored that she asked for me to fill in for a post, she is one blogger that I definitely look up to. I will let you all know when it goes live.

So today, I made a rookie fall/winter style mistake of not layering. tisk. tisk. It was so cold when I left for work this morning I put on a very thick sweater with only a cami underneath it so by the time lunch it I was a little warm all I wanted to do was take my sweater off...but alas I could not, I would have looked like I forgot it was no longer Halloween or I forgot to finish getting dressed this morning.

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Though I will be laying I will not be laying like that...is that really Blake Lively? Because whoever that is, she looks like a hobo that came into some money. Not loving it.

Photo Credit

This is how you do layers right! Sweater. Long sleeve button down. And a long sleeve tee. Perfection. As it goes from 35 degrees to 65 degrees just shed the layers! Love it for these fall days.

What are you all doing to keep warm in the mornings and cool in the afternoon? Made any temperature/style mistakes? And most importantly what are you thankful for on Day 1 of #30daysofthankfulness (TWEET IT!).

Purrsuing Charlotte

2011-10-30T23:40:00.000-04:00

Saturday I participated in the Panther Purrsuit, a social media scavenger hunt that centers off of Twitter. I wasn't sure what to expect at first but as Saturday drew closer and the friendly trash talk began. My teammate, Samantha and I were sponsored by Painting with a Twist (@PWATCLT) and could not have been represented by a more fun company! Thanks, PWAT!

On Saturday I wrested with what to wear with my PWAT shirt and masquerade mask. My original plan to wear my burgundy pants that would match the feathers in my mask but considering the pants are a tad bit long it is a must that wear heels/boots with them. At the last minute I decided to go with jeans and burgundy flats.

Meet-up was at 1pm at the Panthers Practice field, Samantha and I (Team CLT Masquerade) were ready to take on the competition. We spoke with some of the Allen Tate representatives who were there to help facilitate the Purrsuit, Allen Tate was one of the sponsors of the Panther Purrsuit.

The first three challenges took place on the practice field. Whoop. Whoop. Who would have ever thought I would be playing games on the practice field of the Panthers. Challenge #1: Kick a field goal - the further back the better score. Sam and I both gave it our best try. I even put on Sam's tennis shoe, no go. Then I tried to kick it with my flats on. Lets just say the ball flew...and about 5 sec delay so did my shoe. Quite humorous to all who saw this. Gotta laugh. That is what this is all about.

Challenge #2 was much easier than kicking a field goal. It was an improv with an Allen Tate rep. Funny. Goofy. Just watch the video above. Challenge #3 was just as fun a 3-legged race run with an Allen Tate rep. Which I ran, and thought it to be with great time.

Once the challenges at the practice field were done...we were off! The first stop was suppose to be ride on the Gold Rush to the Allen Tate office which turned into a walk through the Culture Fair. What I loved is that we used QR codes to get to our next destination and some were even audio personalized. How awesome, great job guys! We had two challenges at the Allen Tate office, kind of like a Price is Right game attach prices to the home in the greater Charlotte area.

The final challenge at Allen Tate was Pictionary...and while most of my friends know I get quite excited when I play Catch Phase, same way with Pictionary.

After our awesome Pictionary round at Allen Tate next up was heading back to the car...we may or may not have been cursing the Gold Rush. Next stop was Classroom Central where there were 3 challenges. Challenge #1 learn a Panther cheer with two of the Panther cheerleaders. Done and done. Next up a shopping spree through Classroom Central. Which there was a video...but it never got uploaded. So sad. Stupid wifi. Next up the scavenger hunt in the Suburu on South Blvd. cars. We did pretty well and found quite a few items.

Our next stop was Queen City Audio Video & Appliances on Queen City Blvd. This stop was fun and I must say a bit relaxing. We had to study a cheat sheet of movie preview we were going to watch on a 3D TV and answer the questions.

Then another improv skit this time it was cooking Thanksgiving dinner with Sir Purr! Get ready to laugh.

Our final stop of the Purrsuit before the finish line was Circle K. I was afraid we were going to have to down a big gulp are something seeing we were given two buy one get one free coupons for a large drink size. We got there and got our free drinks. Holla. We were oh so thirsty.

Final challenge play Pepsi pong. Sam was awesome and we got some really great points to add to the rest.

Our finish line was at the Epicenter. Though we didn't win any prizes we had a blast and I cannot wait for next year. Being a rookie I made notes for next year...and this year was awesome but next year will be epic.

After the Panther Purrsuit I had a Halloween Costume party to attend...though my costume was just a carry over from the Purrsuit games. I was just oh too tired to change.

Top Row: Michelle. Sarah. Jen. Katy.
Bottom Row: Caitlin. Britney. Me. Tiff.

It was so great to see some of my fave Charlotte bloggers! I didn't stay long but I had a great time and Michelle is an incredible hostess.

That was my Saturday! I hope you all had an incredible weekend as well.

Meow!

2011-10-25T23:00:00.000-04:00

Miss Sixty Belted Dress

One of my favorite prints in fashion is leopard print. It is bold and it has so much potential. Like the above dress. Look how amazing and classy that dress is! Doesn't it make you want to go somewhere fab and hold you head high just knowing you can conquer the world in your leopard print dress? The plus about that dress, you can see how great it looks with some strappy heels it would also look just as great with a ankle booty or a closed toe pump. So many options.

Ruched Top Dress

The problem with leopard print is it can be easily over sexified. Okay, I know I got this dress off of Victoria Secret but I knew the quickest way to prove my point. Too many times I see this when it comes to leopard print. Its like, how can we make this dress sexier? Lets put it in leopard and make it look like lingerie. And while this one isn't so bad...there are one's that are basically just made for the street walkers. Ladies, please keep it classy and stay away from the following dresses.

Obviously this is on clearance for a reason

I don't care this is Burberry...this looks like a dress a hooker was wear running away from the cops

There are no words...

So remember my fashion lovers leopard isn't something to be afraid of it is something to embrace! Just stay away from looking like a complete cat or basically a street walker. Here are some great ways to incorporate leopard print into your wardrobe and still look classy.

Perfection

Leopard Print Short...Bold! I DIE!

Accessorize in leopard!

A leopard print shoe is must! MUST!

Take a chance. Be brave...and I am going to do everything I possibly can to avoid the oh so corny and over used phase used when talking about leopard print (you know which one I am talking about). Leopard print isn't scary, it is bold, but who doesn't want a bit of bold in their wardrobe?

Back to Normal

2011-10-25T00:34:00.001-04:00

photo credit

On Friday, I had to get a shot in my Kardashian for the headaches that were borderline migraines and migraines that I was having for almost a week. And now I am back to my vibrant self. Yay! I can hear the cheers waving through the internets as you read this.

I've been working on the same post for the past few hours and now it is midnight...so it is going to have to wait until tomorrow, which I am uber bummed about. So I am going to leave you with a little sneak peak at what it is you will be seeing on the blog tomorrow. It is something I wanted to write about for awhile and it kind of got stuck into the archives.

Okay my fashion lovers until tomorrow! Muah.

My Pounding Head!

2011-10-21T01:14:00.000-04:00

Hello my lovelies. I've missed you and I am sorry I've been dealing with severe borderline migraines and migraines since Saturday. Thankfully I have a doctors appointment at 9:15 on Friday morning for what will most likely be a shot in my wanna-be Kardashian booty...it is more like a J-Lo.

I would like to give a big shout out to my rock-star parents for going to pick-up my meds that were called in for my on Tuesday night. They drove from their house to my pharmacy to my house! It really meant so much to me when just walking made me want to cry. thank you!

Now, my pup on the other hand...I do not know what has gotten into her but aren't dog suppose to have some sixth sense that their owner is not feeling well? Isn't that in their biology or something. My pup is missing that.

So I found this thing on Pinterest and figured it would be perfect to make up for the lack my blogging this week. It is funny and quirky...

I love this...except for #30

I hope you all enjoyed this. I know its not very fashion forward but I needed to blog something. I miss you all, hopefully after 10am tomorrow I will be feeling 100% again.

xoxo - my fashion lovers!

The Fur Craze

2011-10-12T23:05:00.000-04:00

Hello my fashion lovers! I've missed you and the intoxicating glow of my laptop (though I have to admit with my current headache that I've had almost all day - it is making me cringe just a little). I was sick on Monday and Tuesday...I didn't turn on my computer nor did I tweet for those two days. I have to admit it was kind of nice but I did miss posting the winner of the giveaway. However it did get posted today! Check it out in case you missed it.

As much as I love expensive things my non-profit salary doesn't allow me to splurge on all the pretty things my fashion heart desires, so many times I have to improvise. Which I have become quite good at, I was trained well by my mom and MawMaw and I hope that I can use the blog as a tool to teach you all how to be smart shoppers as well.

One of the hot items for fall is fur (faux or real - this isn't a place for that debate) so take the luxe material and a girl's 2nd best friend, a handbag..of course...and you get an amazing piece for fall. I did a little bit of searching and found some very expensive handbags that will make you drool, I promise...I had to wipe drool off my keyboard a few times. But if you are like me, they will make your bank account cry as well, I think my bank card is hiding knowing that I have real bills to pays and a dog to feed. Then I will show a very affordable handbag that will make your bankcard come out of hiding.

Raven Kauffman Tote ($395)

Milly Kiki Shoulder Bag ($475)

Lanvin Fur Trousse Shoulder Bag ($2,900)

As you can see these bags can carry a pretty price tag, not terrible...but of course the one I am in love with is almost $3,000...another is almost $500! sigh. Thankfully there is a solution. Can I hear everyone cheering?

Forever21 Faux Fur Shoulder Bag ($29)

$29! You totally read that right! And how freakin' adorable is that bag? I am in love.

Well, my fashion lovers, I hope you enjoyed my more affordable find! Have you had a great find lately?

Shoe Giveway Winner!

2011-10-12T14:40:00.001-04:00

Sorry for the late post, I didn't even turn my computer on Monday or Tuesday.

I was sick in bed. Boo.

The winner of the shoe giveaway is Tiff from Love Sweat and Beers!

As soon as you shoot me your email address (myfashionableaffair@gmail.com) I will send it to to sponsors of the contest and you will get to pick out your shoes!

Congrats, Tiff!

I Have Books!

2011-10-07T11:02:00.001-04:00

photo credit

Okay, so I am cleaning out my upstairs closet! Yay. While I was cleaning out my closet I've come to find how many books I have that I am not read again...or ever for that matter (some of the books I have never read) nor am I going to display anywhere. So here is a list of the books I have and I am trying to get rid of. If you want one or some or all..just email me at myfashionableaffair@gmail.com. If you don't like in the QC no worries, I can work out shipping!

A Bend in the Road by Nicholas Sparks
Cold Mountian by Charles Frazier (paperback; like new)
At First Sight by Nicholas Sparks (hardback; like new)
A Million Little Pieces by James Frey (hardback; like new)
Mr. Maybe by Jane Green (paperback; used very good condition)
Prep by Curtis Sittenfeld (paperback; used good condition)
Stupid & Contagious by Caprice Crane (paperback; used good condition)
Trading Up by Candace Bushnell (paperback; like new)
The Wedding by Nicholas Sparks (paperback - reprint; used)
The Wonder Spot by Melissa Bank (paperback; used good condition)

The following a Christian study books

Avoiding Mr. Wrong [and what to do if you didn't] by Stephen Arterburn & Dr. Meg J. Rinck (paperback; new)
Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller (paperback; new)
Captivating by John & Stasi Eldredge (hardback; like new)
Cracking Da Vinci's Code (paperback; new)

2011-10-06T15:14:00.000-04:00

photo credit

Just a Quick List

2011-10-04T22:39:00.002-04:00

She likes to sleep in too!

This post is going to be a quickie...a list making post! I stayed up too late on Sunday night watching the premiere of Dexter (any Dexter fans out there?) followed by the last disc of the Vampire Diaries Season 2 while I was doing laundry. The next thing I knew it was 1am or so. Then last night I watched Monday Night Football and which I again stayed up until 1ish. And though I do that quite often on the weekend, when I don't have to get up early in the morning...definitely not a morning person.

So onto my quick-list-like blog:

I love my Tampa Bay Bucs!
Did you see last night's post about the giveaway - that I kept misspelling? Well, if you haven't checked it out then I highly recommend that you do! It is a SHOE GIVEAWAY!
My blogger buddy at PinQue is in the Lucky Life Editor contest....let me just say, Michelle is an awesome fashion blogger! Go to her blog, then vote for her! She is also having a giveaway...a $100 Visa Card Giveaway!
I am checking out this tunic at Anthropologie after getting an email that there is additional 25% off.
I have someone working on a new logo and layout for the blog! Yay!!
I bought the pup Hide A Squirrel today, and she LOVES it. She just played and played and played.

Okay, well this was short...sweet...but posted! Don't forget fashion lovers, go comment on the giveaway post!

Such a Tease (GIVEAWAY POST) - ENDED!

2011-10-03T21:27:00.000-04:00

The contest has ended - the winner will be announced on Monday!

So I said twice last week that a sponsored giveway was coming...and it never came. I got crazy busy from Thursday night's post of the grand opening of Versona, followed by the celebration of Jessica's office and business, the failure of my pie...

Today, my fashion lovers... especially my shoe lover you don't have to wait any longer is is the giveway. Everyone get excited. So I received the Collette by Naturalizer in the mail last week on Wednesday evening. I was so excited, I ripped the box open like a little kid on Christmas (or like I still do on Christmas). And I have to admit I was so excited by what I saw. The shoes are absolutely adorable...and I have to admit I had this preconceived idea that these shoes were for an older woman. How wrong I was. I made sure my outfit for work the next day would include these adorable shoes. These shoes went great with Thursday's outfit of jeans but it also went really well with my black Banana Republic dress and yellow sweater from Anthropologie today. I was really impressed how comfortable they were. I wore them all day without any complaints....even though I was breaking in brand new shoes.

I encourage you to check out the above video for a behind the scenes look at the fall campaign for Naturalizer. Here are some of the fall shoes from the Naturalizer collection. Tell me which is your favorite! Or you can check out the website and the new arrivals...you may find something else you just love!
I also encourage you to like the Naturalizer page! The winner of this giveway will win (drum roll please)......

A gift card to receive a free pair of shoes from Naturalizer.com (the pair of Naturalizer shoes, information and gift card for giveaway was provided by Naturalizer and Brown Shoe Company, through MyBlogSpark)! Free shoes...how can you go wrong there?!

Collette

Arness

Dinka

Irma

Kendall

Lennox

Valya

Hello, adorable...am I right? So leave a comment, let me know that you liked Naturalizer on Facebook. Tell me which of the above would you get with your free shoe? Since I already have the Collette, I am thinking I am in love with Arness because I don't have a flat black boot as hot as that one. Also, be sure to be following me on Twitter and to like My Fashionable Affair on Facebook with updates on the giveway. Entries for this giveway will be accepted until Friday (all day Friday)!

Weekend Update: Celebrations & Failures

2011-10-03T00:17:00.000-04:00

On Friday, after all of my errand running and spending a ridiculous amount of money at BJ's - how does one single person do that? I have to say that about 35% of the bill was on dog food that will last me about 2 months or so. That evening I went to Davidson to celebrate the success of my friend Jessica and her beautiful new office for her photography business. She has had so much incredible success and I know that she will continue to have great success.

She had goodies for us at her office before dinner at Flat Iron. The first time I went to Flat Iron I really liked my dish (the shrimp and grits) but I was in love with the goat dip and I think that is what stuck in my memory. This time the dish fell flat...nice play on words, right? But the company was fantastic. It was a great night.

My living/dining room with wood floors

On Saturday morning my dad and I went back to Lumber Liquidators to return a piece of trim that was damaged and to also return a piece of trim from the transition pieces but it did not also work for the fireplace trim work. Thankfully this trim and exchange only cost me $5 and some change since I purchased an additional piece of trim. Much nicer of a price tag than my first two visits - the first to purchase the wood floors and the second to purchase all the trim.

Chocolate Pumpkin Pie

That afternoon I went to Trader Joe's and Harris Teeter - spending more money on food to make the pie above and picking up a few other things to stock my kitchen...I have to admit it was quite empty. I had plans to have dinner at my friend's, Irene & Wayne's house that evening - they were serving up a low country boil. Since fall really hit the Queen City this weekend I was craving something with pumpkin and found this recipe for Chocolate Pumpkin Pie on Pinterest. Read below before making the pie.

Lillian!

After the little one went to bed and after dinner we sat out on the back deck around the boiler tank/fire and to finally enjoy the pie I baked. Except the pie...the pie....the are no words to describe how bad the pie was. I just asked everyone to stop eating it. I didn't want people swallowing down bad dessert for the sake of my feeling. So if you come across this recipe on Pinterest and think, oh I should make this it looks easy and sounds yummy. Warning: it is not!

The pup...after her bath

Today was low-key and nice...just the way I like it. Went to the early service this morning, followed by lunch at my parents house until the pup got me shunned from the house because she rolled around in something gross. So I came home and bathed her. She doesn't like the bath part but she loves being dried off and running around the house foolishly. I heard a crash downstairs but I didn't think much of it, but since she woke up from our Sunday afternoon nap she has been limping. Not crying or whimpering. I am hoping she just pulled a muscle or something. But I am one worried pup momma!

How was your weekend? Are you loving the fall weather and now it is October...I am.

Grand Opening!

2011-09-30T00:16:00.000-04:00

Photo Credit

I definitely stared at this screen longer than I should have trying to figure out a clever title...the post title section is currently still empty but at least I am now typing and not just watching Conan doing ridiculous moves. He is hilarious and oh so distracting. I think it is the red hair...it has magical powers. People are probably reading this thinking...this blog is about fashion, right?! Okay, okay..onto the fashion.

Today, I wore my Naturalizer pumps that I received in the mail yesterday, I was going to do my full post on the prize pack today but I am going to premiere that for my Friday post with a full on review. Let me just say though I really enjoyed the comfort of the Naturalizers and I got a lot of compliments! Have you liked Naturlizer on Facebook, yet?

After work I headed to the grand opening of Versona Accessories in the Arboretum on Providence today. I loved this new store and I cannot wait to go back. The pieces are really affordable and they were great quality items! The store is really beautiful and laid out perfectly, it is laid out by trend and color. It is perfect and makes it really easy to find what you are looking for and at the same time spend lots and lots of time in there without getting frustrated.

When I walked in Versona I was just overwhelmed (in a good way!) by all the beautiful items. I was sent a gift card to attend the event and I just didn't know what I wanted I picked up a basket ready to fill it up with all sorts of little goodies...but then you all know my weakness in life, shoes...and I came across these beauties. I texted my bestie and her response was hello lover. I was on the phone with my mom and sent her the same text pic...she said it looked like something from Sex & The City...then she showed my dad, he asked if it was for my Halloween costume. I second guessed myself for a split second...but I still bought them. I cannot wait to go back. Welcome to Charlotte, Versona!

Packages!

2011-09-28T22:38:00.001-04:00

This week it was back to the real world of work and though I always dress up...I miss dresses and wearing my super fun high heels. I am glad though that this week is going by quite quickly and I am looking forward to the weekend.

I will be kicking off the weekend at the Versona grand opening in Charlotte on Thursday night in the Arboretum. I received my official invitation on Tuesday, I am looking forward to attending. If you are free on Thursday night, I encourage you to attend, the first 500 customers who make a $50 purchase will receive a Versona Accessories tote bag!

Even though my work week has not included fashion shows but today it included some of my favorite things packages in the mail! When I opened the packages I finally got my book in the mail for book club which I cannot wait to read because everyone else is way ahead of me. And a box from Neutralizer to sample a pair of their shoes and there will be a prize pack given away provided by Naturalizer and Brown Shoe Company, through MyBlogSpark. There will be a post solely dedicated to this beautiful pair shoes and Naturalizer. So be on the look out, until then go like Naturalizer on Facebook! I am super excited, because I've already slipped on this pair and cannot wait to wear them for an entire day.

And while you are at it become a fan of My Fashionable Affair! I link all of my freelance articles as well as few other things that may not always find its way onto the blog! I hope you are all having a very fashionable week my loves! I am sure you are looking forward to the weekend - how will you be kicking it off?

Charlotte Fashion Week: Friday Night

2011-09-25T20:43:00.000-04:00

Since I knew that Thursday night's show started a little late, I wasn't in a rush to make it uptown but I also wanted to visit with my friend Laura who would be sitting in the VIP section. Which for whatever reason my memory card only took 4 pics and now my computer won't read the only 4 pictures from that memory card (or what else maybe on it for that matter). Thank you memory card for holding those photographs hostage.

Thankfully I can use Laura's photo.
Visiting Laura & Laura in the VIP section before the show

With my fabulous blogger ladies on the front row (Diana, Kelly, Me, Katy, and Katie)

Night two of Charlotte Fashion Week kicked off with entertainmentduring the VIP hour that also continued onto the stage before the show, which Ihave to admit started a bit more than justfashionably late.

Break it down...

Following the entertainment was a repeat of the introduction ofthe judges, an entrance of male models “bodyguards”which was a little overboard for two nights in a row and it was on theprogram for Friday as well. I am not going to lie though...the body guards werenice eye candy, but honestly I was just ready for the fashion to begin.

Body guards...aka eye candy

And when the show started it started off with a bang with acollection by SilkFalsetto this collectionwas full of neon pieces. These pieces had volume and walked the runwaywith power the pieces featured a lot of the color-blocking trend. Silkfalsettois a customized clothing line designed by pair Dessaka Lockhart and NaomiMiller that caters to women (sizes 0 to 22), men and children for all occasions.

The collection Foxx Skynz by Melissa Davis was up next on the runway and you couldnot deny the bold prints and voluminousness pants. There was oneparticular pair of pants that I would just die to get myself into. Foxx Skynz by Design in 2003, it creates fashions for men andwomen, with styles ranging from casual clothing to funky formals to risquéwear. Melissa uses fabrics from simple polyester to full fledged furs.

DW Designs was a handsome collection of menswear by DavidWashington. I am not an expert in menswear, but each of these pieces was donewith complete excellence and I know quality pieces.

The final to show among the fashion designers before the Re-Model Show was Pixton Couture Bridal, and like the men's wear each and every one of the pieceswere done with complete excellence right down to the lace at the bottom the hemline. It was hard not to be in awe of the beauty each dress that walked therunway. Pixton Couture Bridal is based in Charlotte, North and is known for bodyconscious silhouettes with an eye for symmetry and form. Pixton gowns arecarefully constructed using luxurious silks and hand-beaded details inspired byvintage jewelry. Perfect for destination weddings, yet still elegant forformal celebrations, Pixton gowns evoke Old Hollywood glamour while stillretaining their modern sophistication.

After the bridal collection there was a brief intermission before the fun show began, the Re-Model which featured twenty-five local artists and businesses creating reinvention couture pieces from recyclable interior design and construction items. This is when the fun started.

Sitting on the runway with Katie

The couture-like pieces hit the runway. Let me preface this section in saying that one of the designers/artist used bagged goldfish tapped to the dress and I truly thought that was cruel and unusual. I know there will always be controversy surrounding fur but fur has been around since the beginning of time and serves a purpose - taping fish to a dress serves no purpose other than for your own satisfaction and is no way using recyclable materials. Okay, now off my soap box and onto the fashion. Here is a link on all the info on the remodel designers, it was unfortunate but the music over-powered the announcers voice and it was hard to hear which models belonged to which designer.

Charlotte Fashion Week: Thursday Night

2011-09-23T16:35:00.000-04:00

My post for Creative Loafing has not gone live yet...so here are a few photos from last night's Charlotte's Seen Fashion Week. I am about to start getting ready for tonight's events cannot wait to see what it holds...last night was definitely fun. I will be doing a post separate from my CL post to give you a more honest perspective of the event.

Thats it for now...off for hair and make-up, done by yours truly! Yea, like I have a hair and make-up person. Ha.

The New Girl

2011-09-21T12:19:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was suppose to be short and sweet. A half day. Tough quick work, be out of the office by the end of my lunch meeting. Except nothing ever goes as planned. I even skipped my weekly Tuesday morning meeting to stay on top of what needed to be done. And I have to say that the bad day of Monday rolled over into Tuesday, and I know that is no one else's fault but my own...but I was really stung by the words spoken. With all that said... I definitely didn't end up leaving work until 4:30 - my normal time to get off work is 5....and I left with a major headache.

Thankfully I came home to this adorable girl, who makes me smile...always! I headed to my parents house for dinner. I am always happy on these uber long days when the pup in neglected and just needs to run and dinner in which I don't have to cook is always nice as well.

photo credit

I came home to watch Glee...which did anyone else think was kind of a fizzle? I was ready for some snap crackle and pop...where was it? It was followed by the new show called New Girl starring Zoeey Deschanel, and it was hilarious and adorable. And me. Seriously. I need more single guys in my life to take care of me and guide me that are fun. Because let me say, I am not a weird and corky as the character as Jess but I could definitely see parts of myself in her. I wish my friends would take my just set-me up requests more seriously. I say it, but it falls on deaf ears...or maybe they just don't see me as worthy enough.

Tomrrow kicks off Charlotte Fashion Week, and I am excited. I will be covering it for Creative Loafing's Style blog, Klepto. So check it out, but I will also be doing updates on the blog. I have to admit as much as I know and do fashion...I get a little nervous around extremely beautiful people and dressed to the nine. I feel like I am on display/being judged.
But today...Today, I have a meeting at the Ronald McDonald House about their Girl's Night event, that I am even more excited about. It is fashion for a good cause, so I am not going to worry about tomorrow enjoy today.

Polka Dots & Cloudy Skies

2011-09-19T22:05:00.000-04:00

I thought today was going to be really awesome, because I was in love with my outfit...so lets rewind to the weekend and how I ended up with the outfit that ended up being wasted on a bad day at work.

Izzy

On Friday I ventured to the PetsMart in Mooresville with my mom, so she could adopt a cat. She isn't ready to get a new dog since Fudgie passed but she really wanted a pet. It was a little disappointing when she couldn't adopt this girl on Friday but I went back with her on Saturday morning to get Izzy.

mmmm..Indian food

After my mom fell in love with Izzy...okay the truth is she was in love Izzy before we went to PetsMart...we were in ready for some lunch. My mom suggested McAlister's because it was there screaming at our hungry stomachs, but the idea made me yawn. Boring! Thankfully on the same little strip was this Indian restaurant that was open and had a lunch buffet that saved the day! It was quite delish. However, I did not take the buffet to it's full potential, considering my stomach has been the spawn of satan lately...so I had a very good plate size portion.

After lunch I came home to my pup for a bit...then I headed to Fifi's for a bit of light shopping. My whole intention was to find a dress (hopefully leopard) for Charlotte Fashion Week - which I will be attending and bringing you all updates! Yay! My trip to Fifi's got me this adorable pink polka dot top. With the top I wore a beautiful Marisa Christina pleated skirt, which was given to me. Minus this shoes the top and bottom of this outfit cost me less than $20. What can I say, I am a bargain shopper...as much I love the runway label and designers my paycheck doesn't exactly cover them.

my first self-timer tripod outfit shot!

After my no good awful bad day, I hit up Target for an after work errand and my day got magically better! Because randomly in their $1 section was one of my favorite Japan snacks Hello Panda cookies. I snatched 3 boxes...only 2 made it back home.

Once I got home, I was welcomed by the happy face of my pup. After a walk and some quality time with my favorite furry friend I started dinner. Soup. Yes, soup. With my stomach issues I just don't always feel like eating so soup is the only thing I feel like eating at times.

Now I am sitting on my couch relaxing hoping that tomorrow I don't waste an outfit that I was super excited and loved on an uber lousy day...because tomorrow is only a half day, but a half day of work means I have to cram a lot of work into only a few hours!

Vote for Pink!

2011-09-18T13:58:00.003-04:00

A friend of mine and local Charlotte blogger is in round 3 of the Lucky Life Editor Contest
(vote here)!!
Michelle is an amazing fashion blogger and definitely a blog to follow.

Check out her post then go vote!

Miss[oni] The Target

2011-09-14T21:07:00.001-04:00

I am not a boho-chic kind of gal, most of my readers will probably know that by now...but in case you are new, I just wanted to state the obvious. Today, Target debut the Missoni line for their stores and in my opinion it was far away from hitting the bullseye (enjoying all of my target puns yet?). I was glad to see that I wasn't the only one and some of my friends in the Twitter-verse agreed with me. My favorite response about the Missoni line was that, I don't want to be dressed as though I am wearing a Mexican blanket. Ha. How funny...and yet so true.

Those are just a few pieces from the collection...what are your thoughts? Apparently people all over the country loved it OR they loved the idea of Missoni for Target. Stores are sold out. The Target website crashed. People are selling pieces on Ebay are way more than what they are worth...when you can get real Missoni pieces for that prices. Come on people. Shop smart.

Did you hit Target this morning for the Missoni (Mexican) madness? Or try to purchase online? What do you think of this Target/Designer line?

Ten Years Ago

2011-09-10T22:27:00.000-04:00

“Time is passing. Yet, for the United States of America, there will be no forgetting September the 11th. We will remember every rescuer who died in honor. We will remember every family that lives in grief. We will remember the fire and ash, the last phone calls, the funerals of the children."
- President George W. Bush, November 11, 2001

Today, I am taking a break from the fashion and clothing, the anniversary of September 11 reminds me how shallow all that can be in perspective of what is really important in life. As each and everyone of us do, I have vivid memories of Tuesday, September 11, 2001. I've thought a lot about this post and as I write it now, I am watching clips and videos of 9/11. I did not lose a family member or a friend on this Tuesday in 2001, but it is hard for me not to tear up while watching the images and hearing the audio of this day. It is not just hard...I do cry every time.

I was a senior in high school at Bay High and that morning was a typical morning for a year old. That morning was homecoming candidate picture day, so of course my thoughts were quite absorbed in formal wear, hair and make-up. I sat in a portion of my first period class before heading to get ready. I vividly remember a classmate telling me in the bathroom as we got ready that a plane had crashed into the World Trade Tower but at that time it was all just murmurs...but I remember thinking "this is crazy, a plane, really?" Then it became real. As I sat in a classroom with some of my closest friends...all of us in some sort of formal wear sitting ontop of and in desks watching the television in complete horror as September 11 became a day in history, a day we would all remember. All while this is happening before our eyes, my cell phone (at the time banned from schools - since they were just becoming popular) was going crazy because my MawMaw could not get a hold of my mom and we we all worried since my dad was flying this morning as all this taking place. He was on his way to a job interview in Boston, so emotions were running high until we heard that he was okay and on the ground. My brother was a freshman this year and I just wanted to make sure he was okay...but he unlike me is not as an emotional basketcase.

Between classes what would normally be 10 minutes of socializing in the courtyard and catching up, I distinctly remember a painful silence over our campus...I think there was a silence of fear and the unknown as well, Panama City being a military area...it was the whole, what will happen next. Seeing the picture below, it is strange seeing our smiling faces, it was though at that moment we did not know the magnitude of that day. As the hours and days wore on this day would have a lasting effect on us all.

Sept. 11, 2011

I have always been one to journal, write down my thoughts...whether it is in scribbles or dooddles or just incomplete sentences. I guess that is why blogging has always come easily to me. As I was sitting here dwelling upon the events on this historic day, I remembered that I did a journal entry on Sept. 10 and I just recently packed up a rubbermaid with Disney VHS and journals - so I knew exactly where to look. It took awhile, but I found it. It was a single sheet of paper talking about being a senior and moving on to what the future hold. And that is the thing about tomorrow, we are not promised it. We only have this moment. We only have today.

"We had hope...in the early days we had hope that we would find people alive.
That is what kept us going." NY Firefighter

I made a habit out of trying to send an email to my loved ones each year after 9/11 to tell them how much I cared, but the truth is today is what counts. Today. Not waiting to enjoy life once A B &C fall into place but to enjoy what is given to you in this moment. After 9/11 I think the core of who many of us are and our patriotism to our country changed. We were instantly reminded how blessed we are to live in a country that rallies together in time of tragedy. The family we love that raised us to be outstanding citizens who care for the welfare of others, who taught us to put God first above all else. I try to remind myself to be so thankful for the amazing friendships that I am blessed with, these beautiful people who encourage me, laugh with me, and create lifelong memories with.

And though we all have our own opinions on the government, our national leaders, and the state of economy...that does not mean we should not thank the courageous men and women who protect our country everyday. The servicemen and women who sacrifice so much. Stop and say thank you. They are the everyday heroes that deserve unending gratitude.

I wish you all would share your stories of September 11 with me, how you changed, and if you stop and think on the anniversary of this day. I often think about when there are grandkids in my life and they ask me where were you when...often like we had to ask for history classes in school.

New York...New York

2011-09-10T02:59:00.002-04:00

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week started....oh what I would give to be in NY experiencing the rush of fashion week and the beauty of raw design.

BCBG Max Azria
The BCBG Max Azria was bright with colors of lime, cobalt, and coral all adorning delicate flowing materials and all while continuing the color-blocking trend. Just when I was getting use to the idea of fall and all the fabulous-ness that is too come I fall in love with these amazing looks, it makes me want to get a tan (which we all know is impossible, for me) and throw on some strappy sandals/wedges and enjoy tropical weather.

Cushnie et Ochs
When I began looking at the collection I loved the crisp clean white geomtric lines but then I got a little bored that everything was just one solid color...no mix...no match...no patterns. What was even more disappointing that it was really easy to pick out dress patterns that were either exactly the same or only differed in minor details because the only difference was the color. While all of the pieces were intergate and and very well constructed some of them were a little too boob-a-licious for me. What did you think of this designer's line? Because I was honestly bored.

Kevork Kiledjian
By look look 3 I was in love, seriously fashion lust going on. I love how this designer took this army green that is normally reserved for fall and incorporated it with pink and the lightness of sheer and made it spring and sexy.

Organic by John Patrick
Sporty. Cool. Casual. This collection has a great basic foundation but with sophistication and it make casual look better than just a khakis and a tee but just as easy.

Rachel Comey
With asymmetrical lines and more color blocking the Rachel Comey collection was chic. Though I have to admit that I could have done without the flatform shoes that made the look go from boho-chic to more hippi-like. The shoes just don't do it for me. I do have to say the hats were fab and casual touch that helps make these looks. These are perfect kick off warmer weather head to the beach attire.

Sachin + Babi
This collection and I have a love/hate relationship...there are pieces that I love...and then there are pieces that I absolutely scratch my head and go 'really?!' Part of me wants to say that the good pieces (that I love) are school/preppy girl meets Micheal Kors.

Wes Gordon
This line is perfection...and thank goodness for Michelle for tweeting it so I could awe in the perfection of this line and all of its southern charm and I did not let any other designer steal away time so I could just stare in awe. I really recommend going to look at this entire line as soon as your little fashion loving fingers can get you to Style.com. With perfectly tailored pieces that are bright, happy, and make you want to sit on the front porch with a glass of sweet tea or just walk the streets of Charleston.

That is my caption of some of the shows so far that have happened in New York! Stayed tuned. Much more to come. I stayed up extra late to finish this post for you all. Now off to bed so I can rummage at garage sales and at the Habitat for more DIY projects. Yay.

photo credit

Don't Stop the Pop

2011-09-07T21:59:00.000-04:00

There is no doubt that colored pants are a hot item and I am so in love with the colored pant trend. After seeing Jessica post her love for JCrew pink pant and then Michelle did a post on colored jeans/pants. So with this new found love I've already bought a salmon/pink colored wide-leg pair, that just need a little hemming and will be ready for wearing! I am really working on adding great pieces to my fall wardrobe and color. I am a lover of color but for whatever reason tend to dress with a natural color palette during the fall. But no more.

I'm also working on rebuilding my wardrobe. In the last year and a half I got rid of a lot and as each season comes I realize how much I need to rebuild. So as fall is approaching I've been doing the work to make my fall wardrobe make a statement.

With all that said after watching Sunday night's Kardashian's episode and seeing Kourtney's red pants, I must have red pants. I know Michelle mentioned a pair and after doing a bit of searching, I am pretty sure I fell in love with the same pair. I have to admit I am really wanting a pair of green pants, is that too spring like? Thoughts?

Are you going to be bold enough to wear colored pants?

Keep on Dancing Till The World Ends

2011-08-28T02:06:00.000-04:00

Thursday night was night was all about Britney, b*tch. The week had pretty much kicked my butt, work has been that way lately...I am not complaining because I honestly cannot stand being bored at work, though I really can't remember when the last time that happened. Back to Thursday...

Photo Credit

I worked through lunch so I could leave early that afternoon since I needed to be uptown by 5:45 and needed to get home to take care of the pup before that. My poor pup got extra attention on Friday. I had an idea of what I wanted to wear, a strapless dress I bought in January for New Years Eve but never wore...I put it on and it basically...not basically, it did fall off of me. So this year I've done something right...so that put me a little behind in the what to wear/get ready department. Finally I got out of the house and headed to meet Michelle. We walked to meet Kelly and her friend for dinner. We had dinner at Cosmos we had a wide range of options, I chose the sushi route, salmon roll and edamame. It was quite good, not the best sushi ever but I was starved and just ready to get to the concert. Michelle and I had quite the adventure with Time Warner Arena and I will spare you all the details but after several rude employees at guest services downstairs (not upstairs the upstairs attendants were nice and helpful as possible) and walking around for what seemed like forever! We finally got to our seats...and let me just say I sent the TWC Arena a very detailed email about how disappointed I was with their customer service to the BBB contact. If I don't hear back within a week, I am calling.

I'm a slave for you...

Once Michelle and I got our seats Paulie from the Jersey Shore was the opening act and was DJ-ing. It was kind of lame. Maybe because I don't watch the Jersey Shore. Or maybe because I don't hit up the clubs on the weekend so I am not all into the dj-ing...but really I could turn on Kiss 95.1 and listen to the radio on a Saturday night and get their club mix for the same thing. It would have been better if he was the pre-opening act. I mean I know it is not 2000 but she is still Britney Spears I am sure people are dying to tour with her! I mean Nicki Minaj was touring with her! After Pauli D there was a 35 minute wait before Brit Brit took the stage.

After the interlude the show finally started! And what a show it was. I am so glad that Michelle was my concert partner she was so much fun and I really enjoyed people watching with her as well...because let me tell you some of Britney's fans are well...very interesting. I can't even explain! I was on my feet 90% of the time...though I have to admit I did not know all of the new songs.

Impulse

2011-08-24T23:20:00.000-04:00

The countdown is on to the 31st of August....did you forget? Karl Lagerfeld's collection The Impulse comes to Macy's! That is right, Macy's. I can actually obtain pieces designed by Karl Lagerfeld, that makes my little fashion heart pitter patter.

Here are a few of the pieces that will be hitting 235 Macy stores and online next Wednesday. I wonder, if I should use my lunch break to do a bit of shopping next week...mmmm...that would be delish!

How can you not be in love with any of those pieces? Seriously? In the words of my beloved Rachel Zoe I Die! Really. I die. Especially that first piece of the blouse. It is beautiful. The sleeves are incredibly constructed. Flawless. Are there any lines you are just dying to come out? What do you think about the Impulse for Macy's? Impressed?

Get ready because in the next few days there is going to be a hair poll! I am about to do the fall transformation. And I have some radical looks picked out. I need some opinions.
Until tomorrow my lovelies. XOXO.

I Felt the Earth Shake

2011-08-23T21:50:00.001-04:00

Who else agrees that today was epic? Okay...well people on the west coast are probably laughing at us on the east coast as we freak over small tremors and light shaking, something they deal as a regular occurrence in their lives. It feels to that today was just crazy...does anyone else feel that way?

Earthquake Devastation in Davidson, NC
(photo by E. Higgins)

Days like today make me wish I was wearing something as epic as the day was, like a leopard print or a bold color, so when I look back on this day I will remember I was wearing this amazing outfit when I felt the earth shake. I think tomorrow I will wear something bright and bold. I was a watching an episode from last season's Rachel Zoe where she said Every woman should own a piece of leopard...but not every woman will wear leopard. I can instantly understand that statement, leopard requires confidence but it is such an amazing print that it can be done soft or sexy. It is all how you wear it and what you accessorize it with/pair the piece with. For instance I have a beautiful silk floral skirt that I use to (because I wore the heck out of them) pair with a leopard print kitten heal. It was perfect and unexpected. Here are a few looks you can try if you are wanting to give the leopard print trend a try this fall. If are not so sure, start small with a shoe or accessory then build up to a main wardrobe piece!

Start with a leopard bag to spice up your working girl wardrobe

Check out sites like Heels.com or Aldo and search for leopard print shoes that will fit int your wardrobe to bring that spice to any outfit. I know I will be on the hunt for a new pair this year, I literally wore my until they were unwearable that is how much I love my last pair.

A refined leopard print look

Finally, if you aren't afraid of leopard what print or color have you been afraid to try? I have a real issue with wanting to mix prints. I know I mentioned earlier mixing the leopard print shoes with the floral print skirt but that was out of the norm for me. Not typical. I really need to take myself out of my box and experiment a little more. I don't typically care of what other's think when it comes to my outfit selection. Any suggestions on mixing prints would be greatly appreciated.

So tell me about your epic an earthquake hit the east coast day!

XOXO my fashionable lovers!

Getting Warmer...

2011-08-22T21:42:00.000-04:00

I was doing so well with the blogging thing and being all consistent and then last week went and got off on a really bad start. That morning started off like any other Monday morning with grumbling and just wishing I could stay in bed. As I was in the shower I was thinking to myself, this water just doesn't very warm. I couldn't shake that inevitable feeling that something was really wrong with my hot water heater.

I called my mom and mentioned to her what was going on, I knew I needed to talk to my dad but I didn't want to bother him until he got off work. So I put the good knowledge my dad had given me and investigate the problem as well as I could. So I got my IKEA tool kit out and went into my storage unit, turned off the electricity to the hot water heater, and then unscrewed the panels to the top and bottom heating elements. My dad and I had just replaced the top heating element (after I had purchased the property) and once I removed the bottom panel the installation had a bit of a rest mark on it. So I called my dad called and he decided that it was probably the heating element. My dad is awesome!

So after diagnosing the problem, I got dressed for the gym did a workout then headed to Lowe's and bought the $12 part - which beats a new $200 water heater! The next morning was a bit of a muddy mess, as I tried to begin draining the hot water heater before heading into the office. My dad got off work earlier, to install the part. I am always so thankful for his handy work and being so willing to help me. I love him!

Project Runway

2011-08-12T22:38:00.001-04:00

Last weekend was full from Thursday - Sunday...and this week was crazy from working Monday night and busting my butt I decided this weekend was going to calm and relaxing. I definitely need it. My body needs it.

Since I was out last night seeing The Help, I missed last nights episode of Project Runway so I am currently curled up on the couch catching up. What are your thoughts on the current season? Are you watching? So far we are three episodes in and all three episodes have what I would like to refer to as extreme episodes. Making pieces out of pjs and sheets, going to the pet store and the episode I am currently watching making clothing for stilt walkers. I don't mind the extreme episodes, I just feel like it is a bit much at the kick off of the season. Does anyone else feel that way?

Photo Credit

Who have been your favorite contestants from past Project Runway shows? Mine, has to be Daniel Vosovic my all time fave and I loved Jeffrey Sebelia, I know that he was the "villian" but you cannot deny that his designs were amazing.

The Help

2011-08-12T11:36:00.002-04:00

Our Blogger Book Club read The Help this month, you have probably seen the previews for the movie that released this week which stars Emma Stone.

I highly recommend reading the book before seeing the movie. I actually always recommend that advice, 99% of the time the book is better. Just because the movie cannot cover all of the character development and detail that a book goes into.

The foundation of The Help is a white girl though sees that there is something wrong with the way the help (the African Americans) are treated and decides to write about in the midst of the Civil Rights Movement. This story is thought provoking and moving. Though I have grown up in the south, my parents have always taught me to love everyone equally and not to see color and I thank God everyday that I was never exposed to such hatred as a child. I also grew up in Florida and have been call a Southern Yankee and to be quite honest I wear that title proudly because I would rather be called that than to be considered a racist.

This book makes you see that we as a society are not far removed from the 60's and that there are still people within our own communities with such hatred in their heart. And that saddens me. The movie was emotional and people really got involved in the experience. Laughing. Clapping and rejoicing with the character...and I will admit I cried (but to people who know me, is that a surprise?). I think after seeing this movie it reminded me of how moved the book made me when reading it last year and I really would like to study more into what my African American brothers and sisters went through and suffered to obtain the freedom they deserved.

Photo Credit

After the movie we walked to Pinkberry, it was my first visit to Pinkberry since it opened in Charlotte. (Please ignore how ridiculous I look) I had been looking forward to it since I had heard all this hype....and to be honest it was good....but...I kind of like the self-serve froyo better, I feel all this pressure to tell them what I want right then and there.

Salted Caramel Yogurt with Chocolate Chips

While we indulged in our Pinkberry - it was my dinner since I ate a late lunch...we discussed our next book. We decided on One Day, which also is now a movie that is coming out at the end of this month starring Anne Hathaway. I am really looking forward to reading this book. Yay for another great book and getting together with everyone.

A Pinterest Weekend!

2011-08-10T21:32:00.000-04:00

I am officially addicted to Pinterest! If you haven't caught the Pinterest fever, you can check out my boards here, I promise you will become just as addicted and quite quickly.

So on Friday night the girls came over for dinner (remember me mentioning it?) and I decided to cook one of my pinned recipes. Friday nights recipe was the chicken breast with red potatoes and asparagus. It ended up turning out really well and had some great leftovers. Yay for left overs. Though I would recommend using less potatoes because I don't think I even used 2lbs and I thought it was a lot...or maybe I didn't cut them into small enough pieces.

Photo Credit

Friday night with my married friends and baby Lillian went well. Better. I know it will always be hard and also take compromise on my part. Is that nice enough and sound less single girl angry? Because I am trying over here. The pup was introduced to a little person (aka a baby) for the first time, and I have to say for hyper little...okay big...pup she did quite and I was very proud of her. So much so I gave her a few treats.

On Saturday, I did a few DIY prepping of projects...all of which I took photos of...except my camera is dead and I don't to put of this post any long...though as I am writing this post Blogger is currently down...hoping it will be back up when I am done. I did a repainting of my chalkboard it needed a prime and repaint...but now I think it needs another spray coat. I am starting to wonder if the rough plywood was the best choice for the chalkboard. I sanded parts of my coffee table that I am going to try and do a paint job of. I just hope it works that why I am testing one of the tables and the other two are safe in the living room being used. After that I sanded my habitat find, the $3 magazine rack. It is going to need a lot more work than I originally thought. I have got to find where to find finials. Any suggestions? Michael's?

That night I met up with a friend of mine for dinner at Hickory Tavern for dinner and just catching up. After dinner we headed to Starbucks at Barnes and Noble to continue to catch up. I love that time with friends when you just talk and talk...and hours go by without even realizing it. I decided to take this casual dinner to recreate one of my pinned outfits (from my Style for Style board) inspired by Jennifer Aniston.

Photo Credit

I recreated this look without even having to purchase any new pieces...almost the whole look.

Grey shirt: Marshall's. Khaki shorts? Banana Republic, from Junior League Consignment.

Aviator Sunglasses: Fossil from Marshall's. Belt: Micheal Kors. Hat: Ross.

The only thing I didn't do was the necklace and scarf. If it was spring, yes the scarf...but with the humidity and triple digits there is no way I am wearing a scarf! This is not Cali. And I wish I had her hair....it is wavy and messy but look fab.

So that is two Pinterest pins done/created/recreated this weekend. And another recipe tackled this week that I will share soon. I hope you are all having a great week. This week has been insane for me.I am hoping to hit the bed soon...and yes it is 9:30!

Good night my loves.

You Drive Me Crazy...

2011-08-08T22:29:00.001-04:00

Hello my lovelies. I know that I owe you all a Weekend Update post...and I have a great one, full of recipes and DIY updates but I am honestly just not getting settled in at home after a very long work day.

Photo Credit

A great big shout out to my mom for taking my pup in today and making her home a doggy daycare! I cannot say enough how much I appreciate it. I have this quarterly meeting that usually keeps me at work until almost 9pm and it kills me that my pup spends so much of the day in her crate. I normally try and break away for an extra long lunch on these days but even those few hours are not enough. So to know that my pup was being not only loved on but well fed and playing in my parents backyard meant that I could concentrate at work and not continually count how many hours had Callie been locked in the crate and just feel bad about it. I baked my mom cookies as a thank you!

Look at the face!

And one more thing before I wander off to the land of sleep...I bought a ticket to the Britney Spears concert today. I am so excited. I am already thinking of what to wear to the concert on the 25th.

Well hopefully tomorrow I can get back onto my blogging schedule. I was so excited on how well I was doing blogging regularly and then BAM! Life got crazy.

Tell me how was your weekend? Fabulous?
Was your Monday as nuts as mine?

Fab Find

2011-08-02T21:51:00.002-04:00

I love dresses, especially the no fuss pieces where you can put it on and look flawless. Especially for work. If you are like me, I hit the alarm on my phone several times before finally getting out of bed. I have tried and tried and tried to get on a better schedule, I am just not wired to be a morning person. I don't want to talk to anyone in the morning and usually the first person I talk to is about an hour and a half after I woke up and that is one of my coworkers to say hello. And to be quite honest if it wasn't completely rude I would wait until 9am to talk to anyone but the world does not revolve around me, now does it?

Mariposa Colorblock Dress

Everyone is familiar with Anthropologie and who can blame them their stuff is a.dor.able, so let me introduce to Ruche. Ruche is much like Anthropologie, a modern boutique with a vintage touch...except you are not going to want to claw your eyes out when you look at the price tag of the dress you just fell in love with!

This adorable dress is right on trend with the color blocking and what I love about it is it can be work appropriate also be taken out to dinner! I dare you to take a look around Ruche and tell me are not in love with some of the pieces.

I am going to head to be...yes, it is only 9:47 but I am trying to be healthy and I want to eat breakfast and be energized to workout tomorrow when I get off work. Maybe I will be a much more nicer morning person tomorrow...ha! Have a fashionable Wednesday, my lovelies!

Work It

2011-08-02T13:45:00.000-04:00

Normally when I say work it, it would be in reference to a stylish piece or outfit...but today's post is about my first work out at my new gym. Yes, I joined a gym. Did I neglect to tell you all that? Well I did. I need to seriously get my chunky monkey butt into gear. And I knew that paying for a gym membership would do that...who wants to waste money? The gym is seriously a 2 minute drive from my house there are no excuses! And the classes are included in the price. There is also a location near my workplace that offers yoga.

Photo Credit

I've noticed a difference in my body this year once I started eating better, even just compared to pictures from last winter. But I knew that eating healthy alone would not cut it...because let's be honest I don't eat perfect every single moment of every single day. I like to have sweet snack foods (like ice cream and candies) but I am definitely and salty snacker! If I don't watch I can eat a whole bag of chips in a sitting, which is why I don't keep snack foods in the house. It is a splurge for me to buy and have a bag of chips.

So here is to fall. A new season. A season of a healthier me. A more fit me. A me when I look in the mirror I don't point out the flaws but I say, this is a me that I am happy with. A me that can consider training for a 5K and stick to the training.

Weekend Update: Clean. Organize. And Repeat.

2011-08-01T21:25:00.003-04:00

Monday came way too early...the weekend felt way shorter than normal. It started on Thursday evening with a low-key girls night with Katie...some snacking along with Season 2 episodes of Sex & The City. After Katie left I watched a few more episodes and then did a bit of reminiscing. I wish at this point I could share more about the emotions and struggles that lie before me but at this moment that is not my story to tell. All I can do is ask that you pray. I know that is a vague thing to share and some of you may be thinking why share at all, but the truth is - it is something on in my life at the moment and though I may not be able to share the details now I will. And when that time comes I will reference this post and it will all makes sense.

My original plan for Friday was to take a morning Zumba class but somehow I got the days/times mixed up and that did not happen. I had some errands to run before my girls day at the pool, which included a quick run to pick up a snack for by the pool and sun tan oil...because I couldn't find my collection. I headed up to meet the girls, which I am not going to lie I was kind of dreading. I love love my married friends (writing this will actually show if they read this) but sometimes it is hard when conversations revolve babies. Two of the girls sisters have babies - I mean they don't even have babies. I adore Lillian (Irene's little girl) she is my my heart and I love Irene. Thankfully her and I have talked and it has really helped. And as much fun as I had on Friday there was a whole lot of baby talk....the four of us are getting together again this Friday, I need some ideas to help balance out the conversation. Any tips? I don't know if I can handle another night of feeding and sleeping schedules. Friday night was slow and boring...that I started a cleaning and organizing of my downstairs closet - it became a wreck after the whole new flooring thing. And that is where it started the whole organizing/cleaning thing....

Nothing too exciting from Lowe's

Saturday, looked a lot Friday night. Saturday morning the pup and I headed to Lowe's...that's right, I took the pup to Lowe's, however I do not have any pictures of that experience. It is quite hard to take pictures of the the trip while shopping and walking with a very hyper pup and being only one person doing it. Once I got home I decide I would not start any new projects until I finished my cleaning and organizing starting with my closet and room upstairs. And so the work began...and continued...The pup was not much help as you can see.

Me? Work?

On Sunday, I woke up early to attend service and to have lunch at my parents. Having a lunch at my parents was hard, it was the first time I had been there since Fudgie had passed away. After lunch I picked up my prints (an 8x10 of Callie) from JJ Horton and then headed home. My plan was to have at least my closet and room cleaned and organized before I went back to work on Monday. And so it was done. After a brief power nap I turned on the iPod and danced it out until it was all said and done. The bath room still needs a bit of organizing and so does the hallway closet but I completed my main goal...

And that was my oh so exciting weekend. What did you do this weekend? Anything more exciting that cleaning and organizing?

Froyo to the Rescue!

2011-07-28T00:11:00.003-04:00

As you all know today has kicked my butt. Seriously kicked my butt. I honestly don't know how I got anything accomplished at work....don't worry workplace (if anyone from work is reading this - I totally did get things done - amazingly). I had a few choices for this evening....go home and sulk or go out with some great ladies for some froyo.

Fudgie
1996 - 2011

As many of you know, Fudgie, my families dog of 15 years passed away this morning. It was hard on all of us. I did a post dedicated to her titled All Dogs Go To Heaven. My original plan for this evening was to attend my first Zumba class at my new gym, I was determined to get into a routine and really stick to it. But after an emotionally draining day the offer of froyo with some local bloggers that I have come to know as friends became much more appealing than sulking alone at home or working out with a bunch of strangers. So froyo won out!

Yoforia on Selwyn

I met up with Brittney, Diana (who organized this to get her out of her injury blues), and Katie at Yoforia on Selwyn.

So I had dessert before dinner...

What I love about these girls is that before I thought of them as just local bloggers (and they are) but as I mentioned before they are now friends and I know that I can get support and comfort from them for days like today when my day just sucks.

Clyde!

Brittney brought Clyde with her...isn't he handsome? And Katie was sweet enough to go inside and get him a sample size of the peanut butter froyo! He loved it. Really loved it.

With Diana & our Froyo!

Overall it was a great night and I can positively say that I am glad that I didn't stay home and sulk!

Thanks ladies, you guys are awesome.

All Dogs Go To Heaven

2011-07-27T12:18:00.001-04:00

Today is a sad day. Today our family dog passed away....not just a pet a member of our family died. Fudgie was 15 years old and was the best dog a family could have.

Coke Bottles were Fudgie's favorite things in the world.

We were living in Sherman, Texas when we got Fudgie. I was in middle school, I remember my brother and I begging for a fun and playful puppy. The dog we had at the time was my mom's dog (JR) and was older and smaller. We got Fudgie off of a farm in Kentucky Town, TX. She was the feistiest pup out of the bunch. I was wearing this collared cherry printed shirt and she was tugging at it...and trying to steal the bone from her big daddy dog. That was the puppy I wanted. My mom wanted the quiet white one...nope, I wanted the crazy one and so we went home with the crazy on. Her original name was Twix because she had one blue eye and one brown eye. How we came up with Fudgie I can't remember. I do remember my birthday party I asked for a Garfield cake (I loved Garfield) and Fudgie jumped onto my mom and made the cake fall onto the floor...thus there was no longer birthday cake...especially Garfield cake.

Fudgie started out as an outdoor dog because at the time we still had JR and he was older at the time. We JR passed my mom slowly began to warm up to Fudgie and before you knew it Fudgie was the family dog. My brother and I had so much fun with Fudgie - we all would go hiking together and Fudgie would tag right along and never needed a leash. She was a GREAT dog. I remember when we moved from Sherman, TX to Houston and I was miserable was a great friend she was to me. Once we moved back to Florida, Fudgie once again adapted to a new home and a new environment! I have so many memories of being in high school and Panama City and I can't imagine my life and family without Fudgie in them. She loved so selflessly.

After high school my family moved in Charlotte...and as Fudgie got older she adapted the nickname Pudgie! :) And still loved us all so much. She was always just so sweet and loving. When it came for me to move and buy my own place and to get my first dog on my own...it was no surprise that my pup, Callie is almost identical to Fudgie as a pup. I even have people ask if they are mother and daughter.

I wish I had more of Fudgie's puppy pictures to share with you at this time...but they are at my parents home. I hope that you all experience the unconditional love that a pet brings. It is the best kind. I am a better human being because of knowing Fudgie and a better owner to Callie because of her. I will always love my first dog more than any other. Thank you for the memories. Thank you for chasing me. For sitting with me. For licking my tears away. For making me laugh. I am glad you are no longer suffering. Thank you for making my mom happy and for the light you brought into all of our lives.

Fudgie

1996 - 2011

Real Life to Runway

2011-07-26T23:25:00.002-04:00

So I am going to try something a little new tie my personal post with my fashion post together. I'd love your feedback.

This is week two of my boss' vacation which normally is great - it gives me a lot of time to catch up on things I have not been able to in all the hustle and bustle of normal work load. And I have gotten caught up and been able to get a little bit ahead of the game on some of my tasks but I was given quite a load to accomplish in the two weeks span. So after work I called my mom just to talk about the day and all. That is when my mom told me that our 15 year old dog, Fudgie wasn't doing well. That all last night she was pacing and today she didn't eat. It has been a bad day. We knew this was coming, the vet had given her only 2 months to live...but I've been in denial despite knowing it was coming I just didn't want it to happen. I love her so much and she is such a part of our family. Later this evening my mom called to tell me that Fudgie had continued to get worse and they would be taking her to the vet tomorrow morning...she is on pain killers to ease her pain, but if you could keep us in your prayers. My mom especially that dog is like her third child.

Once I got home from work I walked my pup...of course I am loving on her a little bit extra with the news of Fudgie...especially since Callie looks so much like Fudgie did when she was a pup. Then I did some HOA duties, exciting and thrilling I know. For dinner I sauteed some kale and tomatoes - it was the first time I sauteed kale and to be honest I like it baked better and a small bite of baked chicken.

Now onto the fashion...
If you are like me you drool over runway designers like Michael Kors, Dolce & Gabbana, Carolina Herrera, Marc Jacobs...the list goes on and on and on.

Well fresh from the runway is this amazing Alexander McQueen dress.

Photo Credit

This dress will cost you the equivalent of a mortgage and as amazing this dress is and as amazing as Alexander McQueen is it is a basic black cowl dress with some great structure, mind you. But $1,680 worth of great structure?

There is always a way to dress sharp and look like the runway without spending your rent money. The photo quality is not great, but look beyond that and at the dress.

Photo Credit

As you can see the structure of this dress us much different and the quality of the material is probably not as high quality as the Alexander McQueen...but it works, right? $99 compared to $1600 which are you going to pick?

Cruel Summer

2011-07-25T22:31:00.000-04:00

It is HOT HOT HOT outside...but lets not kid ourselves it is not hotter this year than it was last year. And also don't tell me that when you were all bundled up after our third snow storm you were not wishing it was summer. Seasons come and seasons go! And we are smack in the middle of a hot summer.

Well summer doesn't have to be oh so cruel. With stores getting their shelves stocked for fall...yes, it is cooky, designers will even tell you the seasons get mixed up but what does that mean for you? That even though we are in midst of summer and still have some summer to go you can get some great summer steals for your wardrobe.

Take Ann Taylor for insistence there is a 50% off sale on their already marked 50% off items!

You read that right.

I know that emails from department stores and designers and all those different places you shop can get annoying and clog up your email but when sales like that happen it is TOTALLY worth it....isn't it? What I would recommend is either have a second email address so your personal emails don't get lost in a sea of sales and nonsense or just do a mass delete and read only headlines. Because a headline should tell you everything you need to know. So hit up your favorite stores and those sale racks because it maybe hot enough to fry an egg but the a/c is cool and the summer sales are HOT HOT HOT!!

To Turban or Not

2011-07-24T20:02:00.000-04:00

Ever since I saw the turban on The Man Repeller I've been coveting it and trying to decide if I could pull it off. My final decision on the matter is just to just pick one and rock it with confidence....well once the weather cools off, because if I put one on now I am pretty sure my head would explode.

Here are a few I have found on Etsy.

Betty, Urban Turban

This polka-dot turban is absolutely adorable...however the polka dots would limit what it is worn with and that is my only concern with purchasing this turban.

Turban Twist Headband

I love the simplistic look of this turban - meaning the lack of polka dots - now you are all going to think I am extremely picky when I say I don't think I want to wear a white turban. Since I am always wearing make-up I know that it would be all over it.

Leopard Print Turban

I am pretty much in love with this turban...for fall! I think this is a top contender. I am all about some leopard print and then you pair it with a turban and it is an incredible fun piece.

Black as Night Turban

You cannot go wrong with black! Another top contender to purchase.

Berry Turban

I wonder how many times I've said that I love the color red in my blog...or how long it would take for me to count. Anyways, this red turban is one of the three turbans of the top contenders I am considering.

What do you think of the turban? Would you wear it?

Weekend Away

2011-07-23T01:03:00.001-04:00

So this post took me over a week to write/post/load pictures. Lame-O! I know.

If you follow me on Twitter, then you were probably on overload from my traveling tweets, last weekend. Being on the road for hours on end and staying in a small town my phone was my sanity at some points. I had such an incredible time with my dad. I cannot begin to tell you all how much I cherished the time I spent with my dad last weekend. So let this post finally begin. It took me long enough, I know.

We became rednecks for the weekend

On the way to Pennsylvania we had a bit of car drama. My dad rolled down his window and then there was a sound of crunch and it woud not roll back up! Apparently the window came off of the track and we were in a very small town...New Market, VA. So Jeff from Randy's Hardware Store hooked us up. Cut a piece of plexi-glass to fit the window and duct taped it to the car. Yes, duct tape the fix all.

The river in Everette, PA

Once we arrived in Breezewood we headed to my Dad's sister's place in Everette and took a brisk walk along the river before we headed to dinner at the Original Pizza House. The three of us shared a large pizza...and by large it was more like an extra extra large by Papa Johns or Pizza Hut's standard. After dinner I enjoyed hearing my dad and Kay reminisce and piece memories together.

With my dad and 90 year old grandma!

On Friday we had breakfast with some of my dad's siblings and grandmother. The whole reason for the trip was to celebrate her 90th birthday. 90! Wowzier. The place we ate breakfast....it was interesting. But the company is what matters, am I right? I must say that my stomach was angry most of the time.

After breakfast we went to the dam/water shop...my grandmother's favorite spot. We spent quite some time there just relaxing and feeding the ducks. We headed back to Everette in hopes of hitting up some small town shops with no luck they were all closed before 4. I did score a cute little chair that needs a little TLC at yard sale. Since all the shops were closed early we ate dinner early at the Union hotel.

This is my fave picture of the weekend

Saturday was my grandmother's 90th birthday party. The picture above is my dad and is sister. While we were eating lunch all the siblings began telling stories and reminiscing of childhood memories. It was so fun to listen to!

Kettle Korn Stand

On our way home we made a pit stop to see my dad's sister and her husband's kettle korn stand at the Apple Shop. It was fun to watch.

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

Our 2nd pit stop was DC! It was a much longer pit stop...2.5 hours a sprint through DC. I have never been. It was so much fun, but very HOT!

I have to say that I was disappointed that the reflecting pool was empty for restoration. Empty can you believe it! It was definitely a long trip home, we had some issues with the redneck fix for the window and hit a little bit of traffic on the way out of DC. We got back to my parents house at about 10-ish. And I got back to my house after loading up the pup and my luggage an hour later. It was such a GREAT trip! And it only took an entire week for me to do the post about it.

Unacceptable.

2011-07-21T13:40:00.001-04:00

I've come back from my fun weekend and my boss is gone this weekend...you would think I would have some free blog time...except my window to post a blog has looked like this pretty much all week.

Hopefully tonight I can change this!

On The Road: DC Pit Stop

2011-07-17T16:42:00.001-04:00

My dad and I made quite an ambitious pit stop on our way back to Charlotte. We stopped in DC and did a 2.5 hr walking tour. Let me just say we are smelly now...it was a nice but hot day in DC. I've got lots of pictures to share, but here are a few mobile snap shots.

On The Road: The Trip Home

2011-07-17T11:43:00.001-04:00

My dads sister and her husband run a kettle korn stand at the Apple Shop in VA. Our pit stop #1 on the way home. So fun.

On The Road

2011-07-15T23:08:00.004-04:00

I have been in Pennsylvania since Thursday - so that was yesterday - my internal time clock/calendar always gets messed up on out of town. Does that happen to anyone else? My dad and I are visiting his family, which is nice because we do not see them enough. However, we are in small town, USA...all of the shops closed between 4-6 on a Friday. So we ate an early dinner. I did manage to stop at this yard sale at a ministry house or something and bought the cutest chair that just needs a little TLC. Can't wait to show you all.

River in Everett, PA

I managed to find my camera charger before leaving...except I forgot my USB hook-up. Go figure, right?! So I am going to share a few cell phone pictures. If you want to follow my vaca comments - just follow on Twitter. Tomorrow is my grandmother's 90th birthday celebration before we head back to North Carolina.

A park at a dam...near Altuna, PA - I think...

Okay, lovelies...my computer has a big red X over the battery and only minutes left...so I hope you are all enjoying your weekend. Can't wait to share more when I get back home.

A Fouth of July in Paris

2011-07-07T00:14:00.000-04:00

As Americans on the 4th we shot off fireworks, BBQ'd, sang songs about the stars and stripes (as we should celebrate with pride) and then dragged ourselves into work on the 5th wishing we had one more day off to recover from the festivities. All the while France was beaming with fashion in the city of lights and not just ready-to-wear fashion, but couture. Makes my just shiver with delight thinking about the extraordinary shows taking place in Paris.

Let's take a little sneak peek at what has been happening so far....on the July 4 & 5 design houses Alexis Mabille, Anne Valérie Hash, Armani Privé, Bouchra Jarrar, Christian Dior, Giambattista Valli, and Givenchy showed their collections. Today Chanel, Elie Saab, Jean Paul Gaultier, Maxime Simoens, and Valentino took to the runway. I know you are all dying to look at photographs taken from the Chanel collection so why not just start with the best.

Chanel
Photo Credit

I think the post is complete with just a few snap shots of the Chanel collection....plus I set myself a time to be in bed by midnight. It just sounds nicer to say that Chanel deserves the close out the show for the evening, don't you think? Tomorrow you will journey into a few more shows and see what surprises the runway has in-store for us. I am already giddy!

Goodnight my fashion lovers xoxo.

correspondence from j. #13

2011-06-30T00:23:00.000-04:00

dear social media: thanks for letting me relive my old school days of high school and middle school. has it really been almost 10 years since graduation? it can't be!

dear self: i am proud that you can look back at those moments and though some pictures maybe embarrassing you still love the memory and have the confidence to laugh.

dear year 2011: i have a feeling now that i am 27 - the things to come are going to be amazing. i have amazing trust.

dear summer cold: where did you come from? serious...you hit me out of the blue yesterday. i even forgot what day it was. i am surprised i got anything tangible done at work. but i did. and i have proof.

dear summer: i love the warmer days. the sun on my skin. but being away from florida for so many years has made me a bit of a sissy when it comes to humidity. i would like to drink my water not breath it. thanks. though i have enjoyed these brief thunderstorms the carolinas have been having. its like summer in the sunshine state. keep them coming mother nature.

dear DIY-ers: thanks for all your posts and tweets...you've helped me fine my creative side again and though I am taking my projects on slowly i look forward to what is to come. lots of crafty-ness, i am sure!

dear ambition: i know after blackaby came and spoke a few weekends ago you have been roaring deep inside of me...but lets not go overboard and take too much on. i need to remember that it is okay to say "no" sometimes and to balance out my health and what i want and what i need.

dear email-sales: stop taunting me. i've been really trying hard to pay off a few extra bills. i will not open you and be tempted.

Hello, Affordable meet Luxury

2011-06-22T22:46:00.000-04:00

There was a lot of buzz in fashion news this week as Galliano is on trail for his racial slurs but on a happier and more excited note fashion house and a fast fashion store announced collaboration.

You read that right. Fashion house, Versace and H&M have come together for H&M’s fall designer collaboration. H&M began designer collaborations in 2004 with Karl Lagerfeld, and since then has teamed up with designers such as Jimmy Choo and Viktor and Rolf. What can be better, than affordable fashion coming together with one of the biggest names in the fashion world.

The collection which will include women's and men's clothing as well as some home accessories such as a bedspread and cushions will become available this November at 300 of the H&M stores worldwide. The designer collection "will look back on the heritage of the brand, full of leather, print, colour and exuberance in exclusive materials," H&M said. Donna Versace will also be designing a pre-spring collection that will be available exclusively online beginning January 19, 2012.

So if you want to get affordable fashion designed by a fashion goddess, then mark your calendar for November…and make sure your closest H&M store is going to be carrying this collection! Who thinks we need to start petitioning for an H&M for Charlotte? I will be the first to sign it.

DIY Update

2011-06-21T22:07:00.001-04:00

As I mentioned in my DIY Itch post my day off Monday was going to be spent rummaging through consignment shops, and I did! Yay! I went searching for the perfect frame to make my own chalkboard frame.

Like this!

I went to two shops with no success and as I was pulling into Habitat realizing they were closed on Mondays and I was about to circle back to the first two shops and settle I saw a shop that had reopened in Cornelius that was once an antique shop now a consignment/antique shop. One of those places where they rent out lots within the store. All of the frames were high up on the ceilings and I saw some great potential at good prices. I knew one thing, I didn't want my kitchen to be too matchy-matchy. With the pink walls and white baseboards, door, mailbox, and dog feeder (which needs to be repainted - it wasn't water treated).

Then I stumble across this beauty. No glass. No mirror. No painting. No artwork. Nothing to tear apart. It is distressed and matted...though I cannot decided 100% if I am going to keep the matting.

Now I am struggling with where to put it. My original thoughts were to put it above the sink. Now I am rethinking that. I am considering moving my mail and key holder to the small wall (inbetween the door and window) and putting it there. Any thoughts?

The next step is to get a piece of wood and cut it to size prime and paint! My dad said he has a piece of ply wood and I think that will work just fine as long as I prime it.

DIY Itch

2011-06-19T21:15:00.001-04:00

Between my two good friends Melanie (a DIY guru) and Jessica (who if she wasn't already an amazing photographer, could be an interior designer), I have gotten the itch for project. Now that my living room is liveable again. The only thing left to do is the trim of the flooring and this years major project will be over.
And thanks to their Young House Love talk, I am officially addicted to that website...but I am going to make a list and do one project at a time. I know me and that I can be a little ADD at times.

Here are some projects I am considering to do next:

Painting my coffee tables. They were given to me. Yay for free! But they are in need of some updating.
I would like to redo my laundry room because as of right the only thing in my laundry
I saw on Young House Love, that it is possible to paint my cabinets. I do know that this would be a major project and think I still need to rest after the last big project.
The project that I am dying to do is a framed chalkboard in my kitchen...either next to my window or over my sink.

Credit

I am off tomorrow since I put in some hours this weekend on my days off. I am going to make some trips to area consignment shops (aka Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Habitat)...I am going to try and hit them up earlier in the morning (whenever I wake up) and then come home have some pool time and spend the rest of the day cleaning around the house and doing some major laundry. That is the plan....things don't always go as planned.
I hope you all had a very fashionable weekend and that Monday treats you well.

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T19:36:00.003-04:00

Happy Father's Day to the best Dad ever!

Plaid...for summer?

2011-06-16T20:09:00.016-04:00

Plaid isn't boring in these cool summer colors of orange and blues by Milly...and you definitely cannot go wrong with a collared halter. This dress is an essential summer trendy piece, that will make every smile and you will feel like skipping while you are in it.

Milly Madras Plaid Silk Dress