obtuse vita

a quiz to end our week

2012-02-17T17:07:00.003-05:00

hi all! Its Friday, afternoon, and a long weekend. All cause to celebrate! Let's do a little quizzy-quiz.

1. Name three people who inspire you and why?

a) My mom. She's a wonderful mother, an amazing woman, has a killer green thumb, had a great career at something she is very good at (counseling), is pretty much my go to for any question I may have about life at all, has been married to my dad for 45 years, wore some very awesome dresses in the 60s and 70s, has a masters degree (from UVA), raised 2 very neat children, is very smart, and is someone I would want as a friend even if she weren't my mom

b) My grandmother. Who grew up in Maine in the middle of nowhere with super harsh winters and can therefore legitimately tell stories about walking to school with 10 feet of snow or some such, who went to college at a time when many women didn't, the woman from whom I have learned that crosswords, cats, and Talbots are excellent things. Who tells really great stories about what it was like to be a wife at home during WWII. Who is a true Yankee. Who is really funny. Birthed my mom and aunt, which really, what could trump that? Who is also really really awesome at 93.

c) Anyone for whom it is unthinkable to compromise one's vision of their life - I count in this my cousin, Sylvia, who pursues her dreams doggedly.

2. What are three hobbies you always enjoy doing?
I like to knit and crochet, to read, to do crosswords, to sew, to paint.

3. If you were to have a soundtrack to your life, what would today's song be?
War's Cisco Kid - for no reason other than it has been inexplicably stuck in my head for DAYS.

4. What was your first pet growing up?
I was born on a farm where we had a lot of cows, but our family pets were 2 dogs and 2 cats at the time.

5. Do you have any siblings? What are their names?
I do, my sister, Beth. 3 years older than me.

6. What was your first job?
Besides a baby sitting gig or a paper route, my first job was as a Teacher's Assistant for non-categorical preschool for the summer program for Fairfax Co. Public Schools.

7. If you could be a superhero, what would your power be?
Instantaneous travel to anywhere in the world.

8. What are you most proud of about yourself or something you've accomplished recently?
I taught myself how to crochet! That's pretty cool. I also made a budget, and am sticking to it! Thanks mint.com.

9. Name three tips to being a good blogger.
I don't know - I'm not that successful in terms of followers or readers. But I think just staying true to writing what you know/love, and being honest.

10. When was the last time you laughed until you were crying?
I think it was during an episode of Top Gear.

11. What is your dream job?
If I could do anything, I would be an author. But not the struggling kind, haha. But I do really love my job. I think one day, I can see myself consulting to others about how to do what I do now, that would be great.

1. Who do you feel most similar to in your family and why?
I am really a very good mix of my mom and dad, although I look exactly like my dad. We have a lot of the same tendencies/habits too. From my mom, I seem to have gotten tolerance and a great work ethic (dad is no slacker, he is Dr. Mallory after all).

2. What do you wish you could say to yourself at age 13?
Don't hurry into sex. Trust yourself. Don't worry about peer pressure. Study harder, but keep playing hard too. Try out for lacrosse.

3. How do you treat your self?
Very well, with the exception of that I smoke. Smoking is bad.

4. How do you try to improve yourself?
I am constantly seeking out new things to learn, and I gobble up information. I also work out, a lot, and try to eat healthily.

5. What/Where is your favorite place to go in your town/city?

Eastern Market

7. What was your worst job?

I worked at McDonalds for about 3 weeks in high school. I think too much to work at McDs (no offense, I just found it very disorienting that it was so so regimented).

8. What are you proud of in yourself?
I am smart, kind, and loyal. I have accomplished a lot in my career. I do not put on false faces, I am honest.

9. Do you have a guilty pleasure?
Chocolate. Lots of chocolate. Also, singing Adele very loudly.

11. What is something that you wish you could have made, invented, created or designed and why?
I wish I had designed the Barcelona chair by Mies van der Rohe so that I could just whip one up in my basement today. Other than that, I think it would be cool to have invented pizza. I mean, everyone loves pizza, right?

outfit 02.16.2012

2012-02-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

Cardigan: J Crew
Blouse: Anthropologie
Skirt: J Crew
Tights: Target
Shoes: Ann Taylor
Necklace/Earrings/Bracelets: Mix of Tiffany & Lord & Taylor

outfit 02.15.2012

2012-02-15T09:38:00.000-05:00

Sweater: Banana Republic
Blouse: Ann Taylor Loft
Skirt: J Crew
Tights: Probably Target
Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
Bracelet/Necklace/Rings: Tiffany

youth

2012-02-14T14:27:00.003-05:00

I love looking at pictures of me when I was younger, and my friends and family. I like to try and remember what I was feeling then, what I was doing. I can honestly say I'm more content with my life at 33 than I have ever been before, but there is a certain excitement to youth that is irreplaceable. A fearlessness.

This here is my favorite picture of all time. It's at the Tibetan Freedom concert in 1998, which would make me just turned 20. At this point in the 2 day concert, we were all corralled inside the stadium's hallways because lightning had struck - it actually struck a person, it was pretty scary. We headed home not long after this...this evening, Radiohead, supposed to play that day, held an impromptu concert at a local small venue. We were already too far home to turn back and have a chance of making it in.

All is well though, because the next day, Radiohead joined REM on stage and I got to see Thom Yorke and Michael Stipe singing together. Epic moment, epic.

The guy in the picture was my first love. We weren't together yet here, just playing with some massive crushes. We went on to date for the better part of the next 10 years. We stay in touch, he's in California now. We were crazy about each other, in young love. Great memories.

My sister took this picture - we had met up with her and her now husband. I think it looks like a movie still.

(This recap here doesn't tell you a very critical point about this concert. Hot couple Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt were in attendance, watching from the side stage. =)

A little about this concert:

Washington D.C.

RFK Stadium June 13 & 14 1998 $1.2 Million raised Over 120,000 Attendees
Beastie Boys, Radiohead, Sean Lennon, Mutabaruka, Money Mark, A Tribe Called Quest, Dave Matthews Band, Sonic Youth, Nawang Khechog, Wyclef Jean, Herbie Hancock and the Headhunters, Buffalo Daughter, R.E.M., KRS-ONE, The Wallflowers, Blues Traveler, Live, Pearl Jam, Luscious Jackson, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Chaksam-pa, Pulp. Many bands, including Kraftwerk and Beck, were cancelled after lightning strikes at the beginning of Herbie Hancock and the Headhunters' set on the first day of music.
Speakers: Xiao Qiang - Human Rights in China, Lhadon Tethong - Students for a Free Tibet, Palden Gyatso - Former Political Prisoner, Wei Jingsheng - Chinese Democracy Activist and Former Political Prisoner

valentines

2012-02-14T09:27:00.000-05:00

happy valentine's day! I am a pleased lady, Fred and I went out to a nice dinner last night and I came home to the bedroom with many flowers! Also, I got an awesome necklace. I feel spoiled.

i got into the spirit a bit sartorially today - here's what I have on...

Blouse: J Crew

Cardigan: Banana Republic

Jeans: Old Navy

Shoes: Nine West

Bracelet/Rings/Necklace: Tiffany

I was going to go for a lighter pink cardigan (its on the bench there next to the bed) but decided to rock the red.

2/10, 2/11 - 365, year 2

2012-02-11T12:22:00.002-05:00

Feb 10th
Q: Are you in love?
A: Heck yes. See last year's answer. Still going to get married, so that's good, haha.

Feb 11th
How late did you sleep?
A: Got up about 8:30 this morning. I wish I had woken up earlier. I love waking up early on the weekends, and I love knowing that I can take a big long nap in the middle of the day, too.

2011

Q: How late did you sleep?

A: Almost embarassingly late - my new commute is so quick that I don't really have to get out of bed until 8am. I prefer to be up at 7am, but sometimes, by body says 8am. I'm okay with that.

Q: Are you in love?

A: Abso-freakin-lutey.

I am in a wonderful kind of love. The best. I'm securely happy - I know that sounds boring but its not in the least. I have a best friend who is a lover as well and there's lots more to know about him that I am thrilled to know. Everytime I learn something new I'm re-affirmed in my suspiscion that he's an amazing person with many different talents. And we're getting married.

all wrapped up in blue

2012-02-09T09:15:00.001-05:00

wow, have I been rocking the blue this week! I can't help it, I love blue. maybe its because I have blue eyes, and wearing blue tends to bring them out. Navy is probably my favorite color for clothes.

Here's what I'm wearing today:

Scarf: J Crew Factory
Sweater: Banana Republic
Pants: Talbots
Shoes: J Crew
Bracelet/Rings: Tiffany, Mall kiosk

2/8. 365. year 2.

2012-02-08T12:07:00.001-05:00

Feb 8, 2012

Q: What are 3 things you have to buy?
A: Tires (that probably counts as "have to"). Valentine's and B-day presents for Fred. A new lamp for my craft / sewing room / office. (I think that's have to unless I don't ever want to work in there at night..or I could move a current lamp, gawd, ok, not HAVE to).

Its very difficult to determine things one has to buy, you know. We do a lot of wanting, but needs are fairly well met, yeah? Yeah. Like I said last year (man, I'm getting boring with THAT).

You know what I don't have to buy? Clothes. Cause I'm on a clothes buying hiatus. Which is strangely freeing. I've come to realize that everything is always on sale. I mean, it is. This time of year, we have new spring clothes, not on sale, that its not really warm enough for yet (although it kind of is, winter having been cancelled this year, apparently) (but I still don't want to wear capris and cotton pants yet) (or sandals) (or light sweaters) (I digress). and there are winter clothes on sale, that are really quite attractive, and you know, on sale. But this will still be the case in March. But I don't think I'll buy in March either. Haha! Who's overconfident NOW?

Anyway, that was quite an aside. So yes - have to? Not much. Tires count (road safety first). Presents count, if one is being polite and kind. Lamps don't. But I like lamps. I love lamp.

(p.s. last year made me giggle, because I would NOT buy steaks or prosciutto now, obvs. Being vegetarian and such. I just can't fathom cooking a steak anymore. What a difference a year can make..)

Okay, moving on...

Last year, this time....

Feb 8, 2011

Q: What are 3 things you have to buy?

A: Oh, you just had to use the word "have" didn't you? I'll take it literally, and then not so literally.

3 things I have to buy: 1) Food. 2) Electricity. 3) Gas.

well that's not very exciting. but it is an interesting excercise to really apply that word to my thought on purchasing. I don't even have to buy those things when it comes down to it. Well, I could grow my own food I have a garden big enough to do so, in fact. I could use candles and the fireplace (well, I could if it wasn't a gas fireplace, i have to buy gas, see #3). I don't have
to buy gas - well, yeah, I do, cause I have to go to work. but I could walk/bus/metro. and then I'd have to purchase transit tickets. still - we really don't HAVE to buy very much, do we?

Taken further, I would certainly say I have to buy clothes, if I hadn't already bought so damn many of them. Seriously, I should be good for years, but only due to starting from this state of overbuying do I not need to buy. Even then, I could sew or knit my own clothes, but would then have to buy fabric, wool, and sewing lessons.

I love the idea of trading/bartering, but isn't that what I'm already doing? The knowledge and service I'm able to provide is my job. I get paid for my job and I trade that for goods.

In all seriousness, this subject hits a little hard for me because I know that I am too much of a consumer. I do, however, make a concerted effort to buy things that are made or grown as locally as possible, with as little harm to the environment as possible. This does backfire..ever priced anti-aging moisturizers made without animal testing? But that is important to me, and so that is where I will put my dollars.

3 things I just have to buy:

1. jcrew brogues
2. steaks and prosciutto from eastern market butcher
3. caffeine free diet coke.

haha, that's more fun!

02.08.2012

2012-02-08T11:26:00.000-05:00

I forgot to take an outfit pic this morning, which is a shame, because its a good one. So, I will re-create for you in pictures, from the interwebs.

I have on this dress here:

Paired with these tights here:

And shoes kinda like these here...(except they have ruching on the toes and they are from ebay cause I can't spend that much on shoes, but I lurve them and they are my first manolos.)

Although I wish these were these shoes here:

(why how come I cannot has Mary Jane in non-patent finish, eh?)

And I'm wearing this necklace, here:

So there you have it. I'm feelin prett-y fine today. Hmm mmmm.

2/7, 365, year 2

2012-02-07T12:54:00.001-05:00

Feb 7th, 2012
Q: Are you seeking contentment or excitement?
A: Again, sorry to be repetitive..but both. And yes, still contentment over excitement. Content can be thought of to mean, just happy enough. As in, yes, this will do. But that's not how I see it. I think being content is a comforting, warm, sustained state, that is highly desirable. Hugged by life.

I've certainly had periods where I've been driven by "bad" excitement or drama...and they suck, honestly. But to never be excited by life would also be extremely lame.

Way back machine...

Feb 7th, 2011

Q: Are you seeking contentment or excitement?

A: While I don't think these are mutually exclusive, I'm going to say contentment. The word contentment makes me think of being happy with exactly where you are. Smiling to yourself as you are curled up on the couch drinking coffee and considering your life, looking up at your surroundings, and those you surround yourself with, and knowing it is good. Feeling safe, satisfied, and happy. That said, why can't you have all this and have moments in your life that excite you? Seems to me that is what life should be.

outfit 02.07.2012

2012-02-07T09:49:00.000-05:00

I know I'm not breaking any fashion ground here. I just like to look at my outfits. It's like Cher in Clueless. Can't trust the mirror - right? Except these are just pictures...of what I see in the mirror...I dunno. Anyway, what I'm wearing today, minus the blazer and scarf I threw on in lieu of coat. Weather is weird this winter.

Sweater: J Crew
Pants: Victorias Secret
Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
Bracelet/Rings: Tiffany, Mall kiosk

In fun news, I am looking at clothes for Fred online today. I enjoy shopping for him even more than I do for me.

2 of 365, 2012

2012-02-06T16:32:00.001-05:00

This project is way more fun now that I'm on year 2. Just sayin'.

Feb 6th, 2012:

Q: What are you obsessively listening to?

A: The Beatles, actually, go figure. Abbey Road in particular. Also, I'm on a mission to find the Stones Sticky Fingers on vinyl, for under 5 bazillion dollars, american.

I still like all that stuff I listed last year.

Time Machine:

Feb 6th, 2011

Q: What are you obsessively listening to?
A: Ah, music. How I love thee. I go through phases, that's for sure. I will never leave behind my love for Neko Case, Radiohead, the Beastie Boys, Bob Dylan, Cat Power, The Stooges, The Clash, The Beatles. I could go on and on and on and on.

Right now I've STILL got Arcade Fire the Suburbs on heavy rotation. Excited to check out the new Fleet Foxes. Dabbling in a little Serge Gainsbourg. First Aid Kit is a favorite. Jenny Lewis, always. Adoring She and Him - heard it in the Whole Foods last night, put a little giddy-up in my step =)

I love being introduced to new bands. Introduce me to some! Please!

outfit 02.06.2012

2012-02-06T10:54:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! Man, did this weekend FLY by. How annoying! Did everyone have a good Superbowl Sunday?

Here's what I'm wearing today:

Sweater: Nordstrom, many years ago (love the color)
Skirt: J Crew
Tights: Hue
Boots: Rockport
Necklace/Rings: Tiffany

Sorry for the unmade bed! Hi Tasha!

p.s. (unintentional Giants blue, if you were thinking so. Pats 4ever)

full circle

2012-02-04T10:58:00.001-05:00

here we are, the one year anniversary of starting my 5 year question a day journal. Exciting!

Feb 4th, 2012

Q: Outside, the weather is ________.

A: It's been a very mild weather, and its sunny and about 45 right now. Like last year, its predicted to rain and or snow this evening - but it won't be any real snow.

Just like last year, I'm very anxious for spring. I love love love spring. We've had plenty of 60+ days this year, so I can't really complain about this winter.

Feb 4th, 2011

Q: Outside, the weather is ______________.

(well dang, could have started with a more interesting question!)

A:
Outside, the weather is..freaking cold. There is a 100% chance of rain and freezing rain this evening. Threats of freezing rain have been the weather theme of the last week. We got a decent snow storm last week and there are still snow piles around our driveway and sidewalks. I very much wish it would stop freezing raining and start snowing. I really dislike winter but as long as it is going to be cold, I would like it to snow. I'm sure Chicago-ans are not feeling me on this one right now.

February and March are always a bit tough for me as I get so excited about Spring on its way. Usually, we get a freak 70-degree day thrown in there somewhere, which keeps me going. Not this year! One thing that IS very nice though is that there is still some light left in the day again - as long as I get out of work by 530. The days getting longer brings a smile to my face!

12/11 to 2/4, 365

2012-02-03T21:20:00.002-05:00

ooof. out of date! i just happened to look back at last year, and tomorrow, 2/4, marks 1 year since I started my daily questions from my 5 year journal! so, updates must happen - because the cool thing about a 5 year journal is to finish the year, and then do the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th years, right? okay. here we go:

12/11
Q: Where do you find joy?
A: In the smell of spring, a job well done, really good quality chocolate, beautiful things, making things with my hands, love, family.

12/12
Q: What's on your wish list?
A: A new living room set would be cool.

12/13
Q: What is your biggest regret?
A: I don't have one, really. I think everything I've experienced has led me to who I am now.

12/14
Q: Why are you impressive?
A: I am technically a genius (143 IQ), haha. I am a good cook and baker. I can do the shit out of some soduko. I read really reallyreallyfast.

12/15
Q: Moderation or excess?
A: Excess in moderation

12/16
Q: What do you find irresistible?
A: Kittens. I mean, come on, they are kittens.sooo cuuute

12/17
Q: If you had to move to a new city, where would you move?
A: Boston or San Francisco. Or possibly Nashville.

12/18
Q: What do you like to talk about?
A: Politics, people, why people are weird, life experiences, etc.

12/19
Q: If you could change one thing about today, what would it be?
A: I would have made it stay light until about 930. ah, summer, you are missed.

12/20
Q: What is your dream vacation?
A: Right now, I'd like to do a Pacific Northwest tour - San Francisco/Portland/Seattle/Vancouver trip

12/21
Q: If you could be the best at anything, what would it be?
A: Best writer of novels, hands down.

12/22
Q: Did you meet someone new recently?
A: Ahh, nope.

12/23
Q: What's your favorite cereal? Rice Chex drizzled with honey

12/24
Q: Write down a recent transition.
A: I transitioned off one of my anxiety drugs. It sucked, but now I'm supergood.

12/25
Q: Write down 5 words that describe today:
A: 1) Family
2) Tradition
3) Food!
4) Laughter
5) Love

12/26
Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how spontaneous were you today.
A: 3-ish

12/27
Q: When was the last time you felt at peace?
A: For a moment when I got home from work today. I mean, usually, I feel at peace, but there was something very pressing on my mind today that became clear in this moment.

12/28
Q: Snuggle down or go out and play?
A: Both! Often! Always! In almost equal measure.

12/29
Q; What are your top three wishes?
A:
1) Extremely full and happy lives for everyone I love..and me
2) World peace - that would be nice, would it not?
3) Good health and good fortune

12/30
Q: List what you've eaten for the past week
A: Seriously, question book? Okay then.

Everyday at work this week, I've had: starbucks protein plate. grande decaf coffee. multiple cups of ice water. maple brown sugar oatmeal.

Dinners this week..Salmon with roasted veggies, Sweet potato pizza, "chicken" nuggets, rice and brussel sprouts. ummm.. lasagna. ok, that's all I got. Oh, like 5-6 caffeine free diet cokes

12/31
Q: What is your most cherished memory of this year (2011)?
A: I think our family gathering remembering Grampy. That was very special. We had a very good family year, with a wedding and a new baby, the first great grandchild.

1/1
Q: What is your mission?
A: To live what I love

1/2
Q: Can people change?
A: Yes, they can grow, learn, mature.

1/3
Q: What are you reading right now?
A: MWF seeks BFF

1/4
Q: The best part of today?
A: Snuggling up in bed

1/5
Q: What was the last restaurant you went to?
A: Mad Fox

1/6
Q: Today was tough because
A: Friday's can be super long at work, and fly by after

1/7
Q: You are lucky: How so or not so?
A: I am lucky. I was born into an amazing family, who raised me well. I have never had to go without. I almost always win at least $5 when I play lottery

1/8
Q: What song is stuck in your head?
A: Oh, this is embarrassing. Fred has a video game that he got for christmas..Skyram. It has music that plays in the background from time to time, and the opening notes of it are the same as that song Fievel sings in An American Tail. You know..somewhere out there. so that song, it is stuck in my head, all the time. Sigh.

1/9
Q: Was today typical? Why or why not?
A: Yep, pretty typical friday

1/10
Q: Write down something that inspired you today
A: It was actually a work training I did today - I was re-inspired to make things better.

1/11
Q: Today you lost
A: The backing to my earring. So now I have mismatched backings. The horror.

1/12
Q: What's your favorite accessory?
A: Engagement ring

1/13
Q: Where do you want to travel next?
A: Los Angeles

1/14
Q: Are you a leader or a follower?
A: Mostly leader

1/15
Q: On a scale of 1-10, how was your lunch today?
A: Delicious. Veggie sandwich from the deli

1/16
Q: Do you owe someone money? Does someone owe you?
A: I have student loans and a car payment. I don' think anyone owes me.

1/17
Q: What's the oldest thing you are wearing today?
A: I would venture to say my Frye boots. I got them 3 years ago, and they were used. They are lovingly beat up.

1/18
Q: What was peaceful about today?
A: Right now, I'm listening to simon and garfunkel and typing. Its a lovely thing.

1/19
Q: List 3 foods you ate today
A: Sweet potato pizza (Sweet potato, kale, onion, sage, fontina, pizza crust). Intense Orange dark chocolate square. tuna fish.

1/20
Q: Are you holding a grudge?
A: I may be incapable of holding grudges

1/21
Q: What are you looking forward to?
A: Spring, glorious spring! Extra hour of light a day

1/22
Q: Are you seeking adventure or security?
A: Why can't I have both

1/23
Q: Do you need a break? From what?
A: I'm okay. I think I need a week off work every 12 weeks or something.

1/24
Q: If you were going to start your own company, what would it be?
A: If I can get good enough, I would love to sell custom afghans and quilts

1/25
Q: What makes you you?
A: Oh, I'm sure this can't be explained fully. There are some intangibles. Also very hard to do about yourself. I know exactly who I am, but its hard to describe.

1/26
Q: Today, you needed more.
A: Naps

1/27
Q: Which art movement best describes you today?
A: Surrealism. Not really, I just like the answer. Its been a not at all surreal day. Cubism? Yes, cubism.

1/28
Q: How do you describe home?
A:Warm, lived in, kitties are here. Comfortable. Also, its a 3 BR, 3 Level, 3.5 bath townhouse, in case you were curious.

1/29
Q: What was the last TV show you watched?
A: Top Gear

1/30
Q: What do you want to forget?
A: My fears

1/31
Q: Who do you want to be?
A: Me, bettering myself every day

2/1
Q: What is your resolution for tomorrow?
A: Enjoy. Do one thing a little bit better than today.

2/2
Q: Who do you live with?
A: Fred and the cats

2/3
Q: On a scale of one to ten, how sad are you?
A: 2. I am generally very happy, but I've been slightly uncertain about something recently, and its making me a little blue.

i thought you should know..

2012-02-02T13:43:00.001-05:00

just an fyi, Revlon's Colorburst Lip Butter is a pretty darn good approximation of Chanel's Rouge Coco Shine. Hey, I do the hard hitting news research for you.

Also: Happy Groundhog Day! Did you hear this lunacy about DC having their own Phil? Yeah, Potomac Phil, and he's stuffed, taxidermied, what have you. Fun (not fun)!

Here's what I'm wearing today:

I don't like it right now, can't explain why.

Sweater: J Crew
Pants: Talbots
Shoes: Ann Taylor
Bracelet: Nordstrom
Necklace/Rings: Tiffany
Other Ring: Mall Kiosk

chair?

2012-02-01T11:33:00.002-05:00

so, I'm trying to get a new chair for the TV room. this would be Fred's chair, so I have to get his approval. I am constantly looking at chairs on the internet and sending him links, with subject lines like, chair? and chair? and how about this chair? I even bought an Overman chair that he hated, now my chair (I love). He doesn't like vintage, because "it's used". well, duh. Its also mid century modern, you know, actually from the mid century - and gosh darn fabulous.

Here's my latest chair? obsessions..

Crate and Barrel Aidan Chair

West Elm Bliss Chair and a Half

Eero Saarinen Womb Chair & Ottoman

Trying to convince Fred that he needs a chair? instead of some sort of car part for his birthday. Chair? Chair? Chair!!!

and then once in a while, I get crazy, and start saying, oooh..couch.

this blue one...in the words of Ms. Zoe..i die.

This is Fred's response to my latest chair? request

"That womb chair is fugly and I won't use it. This set is cheaper than the original chair if it were real"

well, ummm. ugh. chair. =(

ooh, late breaking news, we may have come to an agreement on the great chair debate..

eggy chair.

outfit 02.01.2012

2012-02-01T09:18:00.001-05:00

welcome, February! The month of Valentine's Day and Fred's birthday. a lovely month. And an extra day this leap year!

February is probably much more welcome this year, since it is about 65 outside. yes. 65. Woot. Spring, it is near.

Today, as I said, it is downright warm. So, in celebration, I went sort of casual today.

also, tis a good hair day.

Outfit:
Jeans: Old Navy
Sweater: J Crew
Necklace: J cREW
Shoes: Nine West
Rings: Tiffany and Mall Kiosk.

out with the old...February

2012-01-31T13:40:00.001-05:00

January is coming to a close today, so its time to review the "out with the old, in with the new" goals for the month, and set some new ones!

First, January:

In with the New: Drink at least 2 big smart water bottles every day (about 68 oz. - and I don't have to stick to smart water, that's just the bottle I use for workouts and my measuring guide)

I'd say I did this 90% of the time. I started drinking big cups of ice water during the work day, and I always drink water during my workouts. However, I still stick mostly to soda in the evenings (generally I'll get through 1 a night, caffeine free diet coke). I'd like to eventually eliminate soda from my diet, but 1 a day ain't bad.

Out with the Old: Don't eat chocolate for the month. (its a vice, I'm not saying go without for life, I'm not into denying foods - just go without for 30 days. I don't like it when I feel like I have to have something, and a bit..or more, of chocolate has become a bad habit).

Again, I did a decent job, in that I improved. I did not, however, manage to avoid chocolate for the month! What I did was stop eating it at home, and only one small piece a day, of high quality tasty super dark chocolate, at work. I do think it has made a difference.

So, yes, I improved on both counts. No, I didn't blow these goals out of the water.

On to February! (I know what I'm about to type, and its making me cringe a little!)

In with the New: Make a gosh darn budget already. Its sort of ridiculous that I wing it. I need to build up my savings. Pay myself first, etc. etc. I am committing to having a reasonable budget put together by the end of the day tomorrow (the 1st). I think Mint.com may help me in my first step: where does my money go now?

Out with the Old: Sort of related to the New: no new clothes. (slightly hyperventilating). Yep, no clothes shopping. No shoes shopping. No jewelry, accessories, or other accoutrements shopping. Small exceptions may be made for 1) tights, if all are worn out/have runs. And...um, that's it.Woooo. breathe. ok. ya. I'm committed.

Now I'm trying to convince myself that it is not okay to sneak in some last minute J Crewing today. That would be following the letter of my law, not the spirit. If its meant to be, well, those things (or better things, better things!) will be there come March 1.

just, you know, do it.

2012-01-30T13:57:00.005-05:00

First off, that little girl is cute, I'm loving her yellow jacket =)

This is true, for me. When I'm doing Plyocide in my living room, hands on my hips, catching my breath, I feel like an Olympic athlete. Working really really hard physically is so satisfying in a way that not much else is.

When I'm shaking out my arms after pushups, I feel like Michael Phelps (or Daria Torres, I guess), prepping for the big race. When I finish a tough workout, I feel like bouncing around the house, high knee tucks.

This, this is the feeling that keeps me coming back for more. Who cares what you actually look like? It's about your feeling, your experience, your motivation.

playing with makeup

2012-01-29T20:31:00.003-05:00

i've always thought that maybe I just don't have a face for make up. Whenever I try to do more than a daily natural look, venturing only as far as a cat eye, whenever I try to do heavier, it looks like a mess. I look funny. Well, I think I do anyway. So, I decided to play around with some new make up, some heavier make up, and try to get better at it.

First up, I tried an easy smoky eye. Just some black cream liner pencil, and some sparkly navy shadow, some highlighter, and some mascara. Here's the results...

and then the cat jumped on my shoulder in the middle of my self photo shoot.

no ice cream

2012-01-26T13:48:00.001-05:00

last night, I was making a smoothie for work, and Fred wanted some RIGHT NOW. he was really psyched on the smoothie.

I blended up kale, blueberries, a banana, some soy milk, and a scoop of protein powder.

Fred drank it, said, is there ice cream in there? and then proceeded to lick the cup.

I love that guy.

01.26.2012

2012-01-26T11:59:00.001-05:00

It is Thursday, right? Exxxcelllent. (like Mr. Burns style).

Today is one of my favorite work days all year, one of my favorite work tasks. But I can't tell you what, cause you know, work. Sorry. Sometimes it's hard to be a manager, but today, its good.

So, a P90X 2 update..

I started P90X 2, and then I had to stop for a bit because of my goose noises cold. But I'm back on my game now, and today, I did X2 Yoga.

I've forgotten how tough it is to run through a workout the first time. I never watch the DVDs before doing a new workout..I like the surprise.. but then I also have no idea what's coming. X2 Yoga is pretty tough, pretty demanding..but I like it, a lot.

Here's how its different from the original..

With the original, which was over 90 minutes, you had clear sections - a flowing poses section of about 45 mins, a standing/balance poses section, abs, and stretching. The first 45 minutes were pretty brutal, the last, very nice.

With this one, you have more like mixed segments. You'll do a series of sun salutations, flowing into balance postures, with some stretching thrown in. So, while its not 45 minutes of flowing poses (read, sweaty), its 67 minutes of them...mixed with other stuff. Different, not necessarily better. I do like the yoga abs portion of this workout better..not easier or harder, just personal preference. This is definitely a good, tough workout. If you do this alone a few times a week, you will become fitter.

After my workout, I go upstairs to do my makeup and hair, and this morning, as I was attempting to put on eyeliner, I got the fatigued muscle shake in my legs. Awesome, also inconvenient, haha.

I got my foam roller yesterday and I'm inflating my balance ball tonight, so I am now fully geared up on the P90X2. Although, I was doing ok with my weights, bands, and medicine balls. And towel. And um, chair. Seriously, my little exercise gear corner of the TV room is getting busy. May be time to take this operation downstairs. As soon as we find a place for all the stuff down there. Like furniture. And car parts. And 500+ magazines (ahem, Fred. who's the magazine addict NOW) Seriously, read Details from the mid 90s, its awesome.

By the way, here's what I have on today. I apologize for the fuzzy pic.

Today we have:

Sweater: Loft

Blouse: J Crew

Pants: Talbots

Shoes: Banana Republic (and rather crush worthy they are),

(one of those oh, yes. purchases)

Necklace: Banana Republic

Rings: Tiffany and Mall kiosk

01.25.2012

2012-01-25T09:09:00.000-05:00

What I'm wearing today:

Cardigan: Banana Republic
Blouse: Loft
Skirt: J Crew
Tights: Hue
Boots: Rockport
Necklace/Rings: Tiffany
Other Ring: Mall kiosk

i missed it

2012-01-24T11:15:00.002-05:00

yesterday was national handwriting day. is there a day for everything? Yes. Moorea was kind enough to clue me in.

And here is my handwriting sample! (i'm pretty sure my "y"s indicate that I'm a huge egomaniac or bossy or some such)

happy annivesary

2012-01-24T09:54:00.002-05:00

hey all - guess what today is? It's my 1 year anniversary at my job. Awww. yay.

okay, so a couple of things to share with you today!

First, my outfit:

Today, I have on:

Suit jacket: Banana Republic
Top: Banana Republic
Jeans: J Crew Factory
Shoes: Nine West (there I go again with the needing to hem. I'm short, people, short!)
Rings/Bracelet: Tiffany
Other ring: Mall kiosk

Second: Fred and I have discussed a couple times possibly buying a Fiat 500. We just enjoy them, and he needs a more reliable (like, newer than '87 with 300K miles?) type commuter car. Obviously, I have seen the mint one, below, and I now need the mint one. But since Fred will mostly be driving it (except on the weekends, on the weekends, it's mine, yes), I'm so not getting a mint one.

No, but I may finally finally get my Volvo 240 next week. There is a good one for sale not far from here, actually has everything I want. Nice. Of course, I get Volvo, no Fiat. Even though my Volvo will not be newer than an '87, It will have less than 300K miles. We like old cars, apparently, I dunno. My daily driver is an '07, its the newest car we own by 20 years. Oh, by the way, Fred has 5 cars. Remind me to tell you about that sometime. And how sometimes none of them work, and all the time 3 of them don't.

Third! Third, I have had an inspiration, an epiphany, a calling. You know that whole 30 for 30 thing that Kendi got us started on? Read up here. I'll wait. Ok, done.

Okay, well here's what I was thinking about. What if I do a challenge where I have to wear every single (seasonally appropriate, occasion appropriate) thing in my closet within oh, well we'll see how far we get in 30 days.

See, my problem, (I have many) is that I go sour on clothes rather ...quickly. Its not that I don't still like all my clothes..its that I like the new stuff more. Perhaps my fashion sense is just that constantly emerging and evolving and growing like a beautiful butterfly...or maybe I just like new things. (actually, I like old things. Vintage cars. Vintage housewares. Vintage clothes?). Anyway, the new things.

I get into habits, patterns. For weeks, months, say, I will be ALL ABOUT blouse with slacks and blazers, and then I'll veer entirely into sweaters with skirts and boots. And the blouses and slacks and blazers...they are still good, you see - but I am not into them right now. So they languish, in the closet.

At any given time, I am into wearing maybe 1/10th of my closet.

So! So, i thought. I will attempt to wear it all. Why? Because the leftover stuff, that I cannot bring myself to wear? That will be donated / ebay-ed. Also, I will learn to mix the new and the slightly less new. I will develop new favorites. It will be fabulous.

Here's what I'm going to do - I'm going to separate out any non seasonal or non work appropriate attire. What's left, I'm going to count off. blouse 1, blouse 2, pants 1, pants 2, skirt 1 - you see how. And I'm going to make a list. And when I wear things? I am going to cross them off the list. This is going to be brilliant.

I may scare you with my list - I have a lot of clothes.

Anyone else want to try?

high end

2012-01-23T11:48:00.001-05:00

so, I've had this conversation with many a people. There are tiers of clothes. You've got your 3 tiers of Gap: Old Navy/Gap/Banana. This one company pretty clearly represents the "mall" categories.

Your UrbanOutfitters/Anthro dichotomy.

Your Madewell/J Crew.

So, after a certain amount of years of working fairly hard and progressing in my career, I would say I am now solidly in the J Crew / Anthro / Banana world, with some forays into the mid-range brands of a Nordstroms, or say a Club Monaco or so. My jeans fall into the Citizens / Hudson genre. That is not to say that I no longer shop at the Targets or Old Navys - nay, I am merely saying where I top out.

My bags are also of this tier, what I call the Coach tier.

My question, the ongoing conversation, is how much money do you have to have to progress to the Elizabeth and James / DVF tier? or eve the Chanel/Oscar type tier? For the most part, I say, I can't imagine having the kind of disposable income that would allow me to spend $3000 on a dress or $8000 on a bag. Can you imagine? I don't think I would ever want to! Who are these people and how much disposable income do you have to have before you pay a mortgage for pants?!?

I can see myself at the Elizabeth and James / DVF tier, say, if I wanted an iconic DVF dress, or something really special came out that was a couple hundred bucks, and on sale, and I loved it, and would wear it every day if necessary, and it was extremely versatile, and if it was the best thing ever made to put on one's body, etc. etc. I haven't gone there yet.

Now, I never can really imagine myself wanting that upper tier. Its not worth it. It's silly. And then, then I see these pants.

Actually, the whole outfit. Its perfection. I wish I had it on today. And tomorrow. This is Oscar de la Renta, by the way.

And then, then, because I've not lost my mind, nor changed my mind...I become very very thankful that the J Crews, the Bananas, and the like..they will copy the hell out of the Oscars. And then, then I may have cerulean trousers.

And then I realize...wait, I already can...

01.23.2012

2012-01-23T11:15:00.001-05:00

Good morning! Today, I inadvertently dressed to match the afghan I'm making for my couch, which is going to match my Missoni for Target throw pillow. I guess I just have these rich, natural colors on my mind! The afghan will be a chevron pattern, I'm super excited and a little nervous, I've never undertaken such a big crochet project before!

The yarns are cascade yarns eco in black, chocolate, sierra, butternut squash, straw, and cinnamon.

My outfit is:
Dream sweater: J Crew Factory
Cafe Trouser: J Crew
Booties: Ann Taylor
Necklace: Banana Republic
Bracelet: My mom's
Rings: Tiffany and my grandmother's.

01.20.2012

2012-01-20T12:00:00.000-05:00

Here it is, Friday again! It's been a really productive week, even though its been a special short week. oh, how I love holiday Mondays.

Here's what I have on today. You know, I'm a short person, 5' 3", but wow, are my legs just REALLY short. These jeans aren't even particularly low rise - but I look much better in high rise, I think. Gives me some extra fake leg length =) Don't get me wrong though, I like these short little legs just fine.

Jacket, Sweater, and Scarf: j Crew

Jeans: Hudson

Boots: Frye

Rings/Bracelet: Tiffany and mall kiosk

01.19.2010 outfit

2012-01-19T08:57:00.000-05:00

Hello, I'm Sara, and this is my bathroom. Welcome. It was too dark and dreary today to get any good outside light for my morning pic - sad.

Here's what I'm wearing today:

Sweater and Blouse: J Crew
Pants: Talbots
Shoes: J Crew
Bracelet: Nordstrom
Rings: Tiffany / Mall Kiosk Dude

last

2012-01-18T13:30:00.001-05:00

Last

film you watched I Don't Know How She Does It
song you heard Vomit - Girls
beverage you drank Natural Raspberry Fruit 2 0
thing you ate Starbucks Protein Bistro Box
text you received AT&T acknowledging my payment
time you cried September maybe
time you laughed out loud earlier today, just your average crazy Recruiter stuff
items you bought Coffee and aforementioned Bistro Box
last book you read The Leftovers - finished last night
last person you hugged Fred

outfit 01.18.2012

2012-01-18T09:06:00.001-05:00

Good morning! I'm still feeling rather ill, nasty cough and cold. But, I'm trying not to look it!

Here's what I'm wearing today - variation on "the uniform"

Blazer/Sweater/Skirt - J Crew
Tights: Hue
Boots: Rockport
Necklace: Banana Republic
Rings: Tiffany

lush for life

2012-01-17T14:22:00.005-05:00

ohh, how I adore Lush. I am all about the fresh, handmade products. I am, of course, all about the no animal testing. But really, I just adore these products, and what they can do.

Here's a few that I've tried..

1) Dirty Body Spray. This may be a "men's" product, I can't tell and don't really care. Its an amazing post-workout refresher. Its tarragon, spearmint, sandalwood, thyme and lavender. It gives you a nice cooling jolt and makes you feel all fresh.

2) Full of Grace. During the winter, my skin gets dry and bitchy. This face serum has rose oil, mushrooms, and some tropical butters I've never heard of. It makes my skin less bitchy. It comes in solid form, like a small soap, but melts wonderfully on contact with skin.

3) Conditioners Forever in Bloom and American Cream. Forever in Bloom is a lighter conditioner, which with my curly, color treated hair, made me go, ummm, nah, at first. But it works really well. See, although I have an ass-ton of hair, it individually is fine. This is a good daily conditioner. It has chamomile, jasmine and honeysuckle. What I do with this is use it as an allover conditioner while I'm deep conditioning my ends. My hair gets all bouncy and happy.

American Cream is a little heftier, probably more along the lines of what a traditional conditioner feels like. It smells of honey, vanilla, strawberries and orange. It does the job well.

4) Shampoos - Godiva solid and Cynthia Sylvia Stout. I just picked up the Godiva solid shampoo, and I must say - it smells divine. I'm not sure about the rest of it yet. I'll have to let you know once I've used it a bit more.

Cynthia Silvia Stout - god, I love this stuff. Cynthia Sylvia Stout is made with stout beer, which contains protein to give your hair weight, smoothness and gloss. It's excellent for hair that tends to go frizzy in damp or humid environments. I mean, yes. Anti-poof.

5) Things to put in your bath! Flying Fox..its a shower gel/bubble bath/shampoo if you want it to be, and it just smells sexxxxy. It's honey, jasmine, ylang, cypress and palmarosa. Wonderful.

Lush is probably most famous for its bath bombs, and they don't disappoint. I am also a HUGE fan of the bubble bars and bath melts - all things that you just drop in your bath. Right now, I'm loving Sex Bomb (Jasmine, clary sage and ylang ylang "to make you feel like a lover." hehe) and Karma (Karma is one of their signature scents - orangey and spicy).

6) Face Cleanser - Herbalism. Now, this says it is for oily or problem skin. I got a bit as a sample with another order, and my face was happy. My face is not oily nor problem. But this made it happy. It has calming rose and chamomile in to soothe and ground almonds for a gentle exfoliation, What's not to like?

If Lush had been around during my Body Shop days (at least locally), I probably would have jumped ship. Lush addict, who, me?

All of these products, and so so much much more at www.lushusa.com. I wish this post was sponsored.

sniff sniff blargh

2012-01-17T12:45:00.000-05:00

'allo. I have a cold today. One of those awesome coughs that stays dormant generally but when it emerges you sound like a dying, honking, goose. And I feel warm, and generally oogy.

yay!

So, I slept in quite late (oops) and I don't have an outfit post today. I am, however, wearing clothes, not to worry. I have on all black, to reflect my health. haha. No, its easy. I'm tired. Where's the bed.

I read..like a lot.

2012-01-13T14:30:00.002-05:00

I was just reading Holly's 2011 Book re-cap, and I thought, hey, self, you read a lot, you should do this. And then I thought, hey, self, can you be trusted to remember what you read for a whole year? (you see, Holly wrote it down. smart). Self, no, you cannot.

But I do remember the last 5 or so. So let's take a look-see at those, mmmmk?

Currently reading:

Tom Perrota's The Leftovers.

The premise of this book is that there is a Rapture-like event that makes several million people across the world up and disappear. This is about the lives of the people left. I sort of love it right now, but I'm only 1/2 way done.

Last book finished:
Well, shit. See, ummm.. hmmmm. Wow. Short term memory fail. Oh, wait, I know.

Jeffrey Eugenides' The Marriage Plot

I actually delayed my purchase of this book, which is completely unheard of when it comes to me and Eugenides - because I was still working on the last book, which I'll get to. So, I heard some things, some things about this book, in the interim. Mainly that the ending would make me want to throw the book against the wall in anger. Maybe it speaks to my experience with the subjects addressed in this book, but no, not so much. I took it all in stride, quite calmly I may add.

Anyway, I definitely enjoyed this book. Thumbs up. Read it. Now.

So, before that, I was reading this, which is completely my favorite book of the year, and possibly a long time, but I hesitate to go for EVER.

Neal Stephenson's REAMDE

(Which my Dad is reading right now. Cause I shared.)

This book has it all - RPGs, Russian mafia, Japanese hackers, American and British Intelligence. It is awesome, and complicated, and a magical dance of subplots that come together beautifully. I have long loved Mr. Stephenson's writing, and this book was super super really really great.

In between REAMDE and the Marriage Plot I read the whole Hunger Games series, in like a weekend. It was good. Light fare, for sure, but quite good. There could've been a lot more THERE there, though, you know? More substance. I hope they rock that movie version, it has potential.

And then before THAT, I read these.

But beyond that, which takes us back to about October, I have no idea. I think I'll be like Holly and start writing it down, you know? Yes.

More importantly, do you have any book recommendations?

outfit 01.13.2012

2012-01-13T09:20:00.001-05:00

Friday, and before a long weekend to boot. Lovely! And its Friday the 13th...but I'm not superstitious so that is a-ok with me.

It's casual Friday 'round here - here's what I'm wearing today.

Jacket: Anthro
Scarf: Do not recall, sorry
Sweater: J Crew
Jeans: Citizens of Humanity
Boots: Frye, thrifted
Belt: American Eagle
Bracelet/Rings: Tiffany

love it.

2012-01-12T17:38:00.000-05:00

hi, I'm the most awesomest dress ever, here to remind you that its not summer. Yay! (seriously, would like to own this dress). the bike lane dress.

outfit 01.12.2012

2012-01-12T09:43:00.000-05:00

hey hey, happy Thursday!

Here's what I'm clad in today:

Yes, I'm wearing jeans on Thursday. I don't know why or when I decided that "fancy" jeans were okay the rest of the week, not relegated to Friday, but I did, so there you have it.

Blazer, Sweater: J Crew
Jeans: Old Navy
Shoes: Nine West (not that you can see them, ahem, Sara needs to have her pants hemmed)
Necklace: Anthro
Rings: Tiffany and random mall kiosk dude.

For your viewing enjoyment today, there is a Bella cat on the bed. She's camo.

outfit 01.11.2012

2012-01-11T09:26:00.000-05:00

morning!

man, ever since I had 10 days off (oh, so long long ago) for Christmas/New Year's, I am having a hell of a time waking up in order to fit in my hour of P90X (2). With that much time off, my schedule started to slip from 7am to 10pm normal towards, oh, 10am to 3am. haha. It hasn't quite made its way back. This morning I only had about a 1/2 hour to work out, so instead of doing half of my P90X, I did Jillian's 30 day shred. It felt gooood.

Not enjoying dipping out on the first week of P90X2, though - time to wrench myself out of bed just a bit earlier.

Here's my outfit today - it feels old, like too mature for me. I dunno. I like all the pieces (love all the pieces), but something about it just didn't jive today. Well, I like it better looking at it now then I did when I took this pic. Anyway...

There I go with the pencil skirt and boots again...hey, if it works..

Jacket: Anthropologie
Blouse: Zara
Skirt: J Crew
Boots: Rockport
Tights: Hue
Necklace/Rings/Bracelet: Tiffany

the wu for tarj

2012-01-10T15:47:00.002-05:00

the look book for Jason Wu for Target came out today. Check it out..here

I'm still pretty delighted, but I think the strongest look was the one that I posted before...

What do you think?

what i wore 01.10.2012

2012-01-10T09:27:00.000-05:00

good morning! here's today's outfit:

Pants: Talbots
Sweater: J Crew (on sale!)
Shoes: Ann Taylor
Bracelet: Tiffany
Rings: Tiffany, and inherited from my Grandmother

can you spot Miss Tasha cat in this pic?

outfit 01.09.2012

2012-01-09T09:30:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday morning! how dare we have a full week of work! =) At least we have a three day weekend coming up.

So, as I said, I'm getting back on this outfit posting train. Today, I am wearing what I have come to realize is my new uniform. Pencil skirt, sweater, tights, boots. It's easy, its comfortable, its stylish. And its pretty versatile!

I have this skirt (J Crew No. 2 Pencil Skirt) in 3 colors - this one, charcoal, and black. I suppose I'd get it in camel too if it didn't sell out constantly.

The sweater is a multiple, too - its J. Crew's Tippi sweater, and I have it in navy, camel, flame, purple, and the same green as this skirt.

I definitely need a J Crew sponsorship, right? I have shopping issues, yes I do.

Anyway, I didn't exactly set out to build this uniform, but I did, and it works so well.

Do you have a default uniform?

Sweater, Skirt: J Crew
Boots: Rockport
Scarf: Nordstrom
Tights: J Crew
Bracelet: Don't remember
Rings: Tiffany
Watch: Timex Weekender

the haps round here

2012-01-08T18:02:00.001-05:00

hi all! thought i'd drop in and clue you in on what I've been up to lately.

first, I told you I can knit, right? I can mostly knit! here's the project I've been working on...which will either one day be a scarf...or just a reminder of my remedial skills at the start =) its a nice cozy charcoal wool on size 9 needles.

also, I made a little piece of art for my office/craft/sewing room...this is one I've had on my mind for a long time.

the quote seems to have gained some popularity since I first read Slaughterhouse Five, but i've always loved it.

i bought a plain canvas and painted it all over with Liquitex Heavy Body Acrylic paint in Payne's Gray. I let that dry over night, and then I did the lettering in Liquitex Parchment.

I kept things semi-straight (didn't want it to be too perfect!) with my gridded cutting board and a ruler.

I'm super happy with the final product. its a melancholy quote, but it makes me smile every time I look at the painting.

In other womanly arts, I made some amazing cookies yesterday. they are really simple:

1/2 cup butter
6 TBSPs brown sugar
1 TSP vanilla
1 cup oat floar
1 cup almond flour

That's it! Mix it up, drop those suckers on a tray (i used some parchment paper too), 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Delicious!

Finally, I started P90X2 yesterday! Yesterday was X2 Core, and today was Plyocide. I didn't go for any of the bells and whistles gear that BeachBody sells (medicine balls, foam rollers, etc), but it seems like I'll get more out of the workout if I do. I know I can pick them up cheaper at Dick's Sporting Goods, so I'll likely be making a trip there this week.

This is a very different workout than the first, with some similarities. The set up is the same, Tony and the "kids" in a similar studio. A lot of the stretches are now focused on the foam roller and stability ball, but you can revert to what you learned in P90X and get by fairly well.

Plyocide, despite its name, is actually easier to get through than P90X Plyo, in my opinion. But I feel like its a better workout, in some way I can't quite describe. We'll see how sore I am tomorrow!

This system is also different in that it is a little more self-paced. There are three stages, and you could progress through each in 3 weeks, following with 1 week of recovery, like the original. Or, you can stay on one for 6 weeks, and do 10 days of recovery if that's what you need. It's based around building up a near mastery of each section before moving on, while maintaining the muscle confusion philosophy.

Overall it feels really great to have a whole new set of workouts to do! I'll let you know how it goes!

Well, off to enjoy the last few hours of the weekend...sad.

outfit 01.05.2012

2012-01-05T13:41:00.002-05:00

Hi all! I'm definitely going to get back to posting outfits here - I've been looking through my 2011 pictures, and I love being able to look back at all the outfits I've put together. I didn't take a picture this morning, but luckily, my whole outfit is available online!

here it is:

(boots, blazer, sweater, skirt, tights.)

I think these boots have been an awesome purchase - I wear them constantly!

omg bbq

2012-01-04T11:27:00.003-05:00

one month.

first accomplishment of the year

2012-01-04T09:18:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone! I'm so excited to tell you that over the last 2 days...I taught myself how to knit!

I did it via video tutorials. I'm not saying its pretty yet...but I can do it! Make fabric from yarn. This is something I've wanted to know how to do for a long time and I'm super pleased and excited to learn more.

Yay!

year in review

2012-01-02T15:37:00.001-05:00

I'm sitting here in my living room, trying to really really enjoy this last day of vacation. I'm thinking about everything that I did in 2011. So, I thought I'd make a list of some of the big things:

1) We moved into our new house -Dec 31/Jan 1
2) I started a new job - Jan 24
3) I turned 33 - May 2
4) I got my hair dyed to match my natural color - and then I stopped dying my hair
5) I won an award at work
6) I got a sewing machine and took Home Ec - and I made a quilt!
7) I completed P90X (P90X 2 is on its way!)
8) I became a vegetarian
9) I did (most of!) a 30 for 30 challenge - and learned a lot about expanding my wardrobe with what I have
10) I learned how to do a good at home manicure
11) I got my first red lipstick (and then my second...and third..)

That's quite a bit, huh? 2011 was pretty darn nice.

For 2012, I don't want to set resolutions, but I do have a couple of fairly lofty goals that I'd like to accomplish. Well, obviously, I'm going to successfully be wed =) But in addition...for each month, I'd like to try to do something new or beneficial, and maybe stop something that isn't the best for me - at least for 30 days. A little ying and yang. And yes, quitting smoking is on the list this year!

So, for January:

In with the New: Drink at least 2 big smart water bottles every day (about 68 oz. - and I don't have to stick to smart water, that's just the bottle I use for workouts and my measuring guide)

Out with the Old: Don't eat chocolate for the month. (its a vice, I'm not saying go without for life, I'm not into denying foods - just go without for 30 days. I don't like it when I feel like I have to have something, and a bit..or more, of chocolate has become a bad habit).

Happy New Year!

christmas wishes?

2011-12-29T14:17:00.002-05:00

just the other day on Christmas, I was lamenting to my sister how I have bought SO MANY PAIRS of skinny jeans, and I hate all of them. I almost always buy online, and I have tried skinnies from my favorite tried and true brands (Citizens, Hudson, Lucky, Joe's) and some I haven't tried (J Brand, James Jeans). Every single one got sent back.

A few months ago, I bought a pair of AG Adriano Goldschmied skinnies, ,the Stilt Cigarette jeans. link. I hadn't tried AG before, but they were on sale, and I really liked the wash. And I REALLY liked the 30" inseam, as a petite girl, our skinnies choices are limited. Yes, I know they can be tailored. No, I am to lazy for that...just kidding, I'm not..but I do try to pursue petite jeans now that most brands make them.

So these AGs, I tried them on, they didn't fit. They were too small, but in that way that you know you'll fit them like 5 lbs later. And as I said, I really liked the wash, and I liked the leg fit quite a bit. That's a tough thing about skinnies for us in the 10-12 range, the leg fit can be off, out of proportion, or rather, i suppose in proportion, but not for me. These were proportional. So, instead of sending them back, I popped them in my drawer, promising to try them again before deciding to return.

Back to that conversation with my sister...she said she has to pretty much hate a new pair of jeans for a week before she likes them. And I got to thinking..and yeah, that's true. I mean, I can tell right away if they are mostly right - wash, cut, fade, proportions..but it takes a good couple of wearings to really tell. I have many a favorite jean that BECAME a favorite jean only because my old favorite jeans died a sudden death (i.e. they got worn out) and I had to wear them...and voila...a few weeks later, fav pair. Of course, my drawers..and the GoodWill..are littered with pairs that never did make that cut. Why are jeans so hard? Why? You know what would fix it? We all get measured for jeans twice a year, and we all walk around with our special jeans measurements in our back pocket, and every brand of jeans accepts our measurements, and says, oh yes, ma'am, they'll be shipped to you in a week. Because jeans are very personal...and they only fit well once we have molded them, beaten them, into forming to our exact measurements.

Anyway, the last two days have been a cleaning frenzy for me, including a full purge and organize of the closet and dresser. I am ebay-ing and donating a lot. But I came across these AGs, and once again, they made my cut. I just still liked the look of them. I've lost maybe a couple of pounds since I bought them, but I wasn't in the mood for an ego bruise, I was cleaning, dammit! So I didn't try them on.

Today..well, today, I didn't FEEL like wearing my trusty Hudsons. They are getting a bit saggy, a bit have to hike them up sometimes. I didn't feel like wearing any of my other boot cuts. I felt like wearing skinnies today, dammit! I felt this last night, too, as I browsed Nordstrom and Piperline and thought about trying another pair, yet again.

So today, I went upstairs and I yanked these AGs out of my drawer. Tugged them on. They fit! And I was right, they are amazing! I give it three wearings before they fit ideally. I have to be able to wear a t shirt with all my jeans before they can even start to look like front runners - i.e. no damn muffin top! These aren't quite there yet....but they will be, I can feel it.

Looks like I might be a skinny jeans girl after all. What am I, 5 years late? Damn! Good thing I really love wide legs too =)

glitterati

2011-12-23T10:31:00.003-05:00

Oh, I am feeling the glitter and sequins! I love that final blouse...Zara, sold out, much to my dismay =(

Merry Christmas to all!

midnight in paris

2011-12-22T12:56:00.000-05:00

I finally saw Midnight in Paris last night. I never seem to go to the actual movies anymore, so I'm always super-excited when the ones I want to watch come out on DVD. I do love a Woody Allen movie, and I was not disappointed in this one. It was a lovely film, very Woody, and just delightful. I think my favorite part may have been Adrian Brody as Dali.

Dali!

I still can't quite express just how much of a bitch Rachel McAdams' character is - and its very out of character for her! It doesn't quite fit! I know, I know, she was Regina George! But this, this is different. You end up despising her very quickly.

Like Gil, I too am enchanted by Paris of the '20s, but I wouldn't have kept nearly as cool as he in the presence of the Fitzgeralds, Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, Cole Porter, and Picasso. Of course, the point of the movie, and isn't it true - is that the present is very difficult to appreciate. Good for Adriana in La Belle Epoque, not so good for that detective in Versailles...and a reminder to us to appreciate our lives - and to make our own golden age.

ballerina in training

2011-12-22T10:59:00.002-05:00

I tried a new workout this morning! Ballet Beautiful, by Mary Helen Bowers. Mary Helen danced at the NYC Ballet for 10 years and trained Natalie Portman for Black Swan. Just the Black Swan part is enough =)

I love the idea of ballet workouts, with barre workouts becoming more and more popular. I like this one - but it is tough! (which is good). Mary Helen leads you through the workout in a bare white studio, with very serene classical music playing. She seems to effortlessly progress through 5 bazillion inner thigh, outer thigh, arm, and..gosh, I've blocked it out..oh yes, arm, core, and cardio/strength moves. All with the extreme grace of a professional ballerina. And then when she stretches, oh so casually, and pulls her foot to her nose. Ahhh, yes.

But I digress - I do like this workout. It will take me a while to work up to the speed and number of reps she's doing. Ballerinas are bad ass, apparently - because I've been hanging with P90X for 3 months and this? Yep.

If you've ever wanted to know how ballerinas can hold their arms up for a whole performance, so elegantly? This will demonstrate just an iota of the arm strength needed.

I do highly recommend it - and I'm going to be trying some other ballet-inspired workouts too. I think I'll keep doing this one mixed in with my p90. I do think my posture is a bit better for having done this workout this morning!

Here's the link to the Ballet Beautiful site: link

an oldy-goody

2011-12-21T11:34:00.002-05:00

i was at ye olde CVS on Monday, browsing the make up aisles, as I do, when I stumbled upon a long forgotten favorite.

Wet n' Wild lip pencil in 666 (the devil's pencil), also called Brandywine. (here's an awful picture, sorry!)

This stuff is the most perfect color. And I knew that, in high school. And I used it all the time, in high school. And I was in high school in the early to mid 90s, and one might be concerned about the whole grunge / brown matte lipstick thing..and yes, one could certainly go heavily in that direction with this pencil. But with a little clear shimmer gloss, or heck, even vaseline? Defined, fairly long lasting, nice plummy brown lip color.

and I forgot about it entirely until Monday.

You can buy it here, but like paying for a candy bar with a debit card, I will make fun of you if you buy this online. (p.s. I just bought Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in Rebelle online. Dudes, I have lipstick issues. also, work is a little slow this Dec 21st).

I'm sorry if I ever make fun of you, Wet N' Wild. Between this and your liquid liner, you rock my socks.

Do any of you have any cheapy favorites?

like a bendy straw

2011-12-16T10:26:00.000-05:00

flexibility. I love it, I miss it..and I'm getting some of it back!

When I was a kid, I was a gymnast, training several times a week and competing. I loved gymnastics. I hated competition, though. For hours a week, I was stretching, conditioning, dancing, tumbling, and flipping. I had a six pack and remarkable flexibility.

Do you remember the presidential fit tests we did in elementary school? With the sit and reach? I had a crowd gaping at me at the sit and reach. Splits? I could do not only regular splits with ease, but I could do splits with both my feet up on low balance beams, hitting the floor. I could pick up a foot and put it right next to my ear, no problem. I could even do the Kristy Phillips beam mount. If you are old enough to remember, she mounted with a handstand, then brought her feet over to meet her hands on the beam, in a major back bend, before standing up. On a beam.

I miss this flexibility dearly! Until fairly recently, I could still rock a great bridge and maybe bust out a back walkover, but I seem to have lost even most of that. Okay, I can still do a bridge, but only on a good day, and not for long.

However - I'm getting it back! One of my favorite workouts in p90x is the stretch day. I LOOOVE the stretch day. My favorite stretch is the one-legged hamstring stretch. The other day, I went to do this stretch, and BAM! forehead makes contact with leg. I could have thrown a party, I swear. I have a list of flexibility feats I need to get back:

1) Forward bend with forehead to legs - done!
2) Right, left and center splits
3) Bridge
4) Finally, I want that foot up against my ear again.

How long should I give myself? My goal is 3 months for 1-3, 6 months for 4.