Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Orange you glad I didn't say Banana?






















orange is my favorite color in the whole wide world

Sweet Sixteen! 30 for 30

Morning! Tuesdays can be kind of depressing, right? They are just so far away from Friday! But today, it is Summer Solstice! Longest day of the year! Aint nothing wrong with it being light out until past 9pm.

Here's the outfit for today!



Outfit 16 is 5+16+28

Shoes: Nine West
Nacklace/Braclet/Rings: Tiffany

Monday, June 20, 2011

Week 7 Recap / Week 8 Goals

Time to take measure of the goals of last week, week 7 in this little improvement project. Here we go!

Goal #1 - Survive medication adjustment with minimal interferance into daily life (I mean, really, if I do that and only that, I'm happy)

I did survive, with minimal interference. despite feeling like I was going right out of my mind on Monday, I soldiered through. Felt better on Tuesday. Felt worse on Wednesday physically but better mentally. Thursday? Pretty much right as rain again. And now I've started adjustment stage #2, oh joy.

#2 - Take a long walk

I did take a couple of long walks. I saw a whole 6 bunnies on my walk on Saturday AND discovered that I have one of those walking paths with exercise stations - you know which ones I mean? - about 1/4 mile from my house. And one of them has bars, which I enjoy because 1) I can try to do pull-ups, because that! that is a goal! do a pull up! I have a weird fascination with wanting to be able to knock out 10 pull ups like it isn't a big deal. Also, 2) It allows me to practice the very elementary level of gymnastics skills that I still possess. When I was a gymnast, bars were probably my favorite. Or beam. Or floor. Not vault though.

#3 - Finish unpacking all my books - set some aside for donation (read: those I've inherited in random ways that I won't ever read, like how did those Clive Cusslers make their way in, huh? How did that happen?)

I didn't do this one, wah wah. um, i have no excuse.

Okay! Week 8 goals!

1) Take 3 long walks! And practice doing pull-ups!
2) Do the damn book thing
3) Put this concept into place at work. Goals each week.
4) Do some soul searching about work. I know where I think I want my career to go - time to put an action plan in place. Actually, this one first, then #3.

The half-way mark - Outfit 15!

Good Monday morning all! Hard to believe it is Monday yet again - and June 20th, for goodness sakes!

Today's outfit may marks the first you've seen of these J Crew slacks..and probably the last until I get them altered. They are too big - darn! Hehe. They are part of my "good" suit, so I need to hold on to them..thankfully I have an excellent tailor.



Outfit #15 is 6+11+25
Shoes: Nine West
Necklace: Forever21
Bracelet and Rings: Tiffanys

I was at my parent's house yesterday for Father's Day brunch. It rocked, as usual. My parents moved in to a new house in January, and therefore there are lots of things unpacked and organized and brought to light that may have not been seen since 1999 or so. My mom had a picture of me accepting my high school diploma. I'm barely 17. WOW do I look different!

You don't so much think you look different in the mirror, right? Its gradual change. I'm pretty sure (okay, very sure) that I don't look almost twice as old as I was in that picture, but you know, I am.

What truly amazes me, though, is that I graduated high school 16 years ago, I have lived SO MUCH LIFE since then, and I'm STILL only 33. When you are 16, 17, you can't imagine what that feels like. How young 33 still feels. Its pretty cool.

Saturday, June 18, 2011

6/16 - 6/18. 365

Jun 16th
Q: What makes you cynical?
A: I get very cynical about the news. Media in general, politics, the intelligence of large parts of the US population. I don't want to live in a country where having your own reality show doesn't completely disqualify you from running for public office.

Jun 17th
Q: The best hour of today was ______________. Why?
A: 6:00pm! It's Friday, its quittin time, what can be wrong?

Jun 18th
Q: What's the last meal you cooked for someone?
A: I love to cook, and I cook at least one meal a day on weekdays, two on weekends, for me and Fred. I made eggs and bacon and waffles this morning. Nothing better than a real breakfasat on Saturday morning!

Friday, June 17, 2011

number 14!

Happy Friday!

Here is outfit #14 - basic black and jeans, can't really err too much on this one. I don't have much to say about it. It'll do.




14 is 3+19+27
Shoes: Nine West
Necklace/Bracelet/Rings: Tiffany

Have a wonderful day!

Thursday, June 16, 2011

where it all began

long long ago, in a place actually quite close to here, I came across a blog. I googled the name of a boy I had been on a date with. A good date, I thought. But as these things go, there never was a second date. There was, however, the world of blogging. His name showed up in a post by the HILARIOUS Ms. TequilaMockingbird, and the rest, as they say, is history (and liberal use of daily read lists).

Ms. Mockingbird, sadly, hasn't written in about 4 years. You can read her archives here and I highly recommend you do. There are some pee-your-pants moments in there.

Tequila led to Heather (I think she would appreciate that statement, actually). Dooce led to Mighty Girl. At this point, many years later, I consider so many blogs daily reads, and am humbled by the talent that exists out there in the blogging world.

But it all started with Tequila Mockingbird, and a thought. Hey, I can write a blog. I think I will.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

6/13 - 6/15, 365

Jun 13th
Q: Something that made you worry today...
A: I was going through some pretty major side effects from changing my medication dosage on Monday and pretty much everything worried me! When i feel like that, I know its unreasonable, but I feel like i'll never feel right again. But here I am, 2 days later, feeling pretty ok again.

Jun 14th
Q: Did you exercise today?
A: No, not today. Tuesdays are generally off days for me - Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Jun 15th
Q: What's your favorite gadget?
A: My new sewing machine, but of course! ;P Also, my KitchenAid mixer - does anyone who has one not love it? Even if you don't use it (I do), but its so freaking cute!

p.s. I'm watching Americas Next Top Model right now - a rerun I think, these girls seem familiar..but this model doesn't know who John Galliano is. DQd, in my book. Come on ladies.

making the things, the sequel

oh, the thing making, it is sooo much fun! and maddening at the same time!

In addition to my drawstring bag, I have now made a double-sided dinner napkin with rick rack piping, and a re-usable fabric shopping bag. I'll do a post this weekend showing off all the things I have made!

I am really enjoying myself, and I am already finding myself looking at shirts I already own and thinking about how to make them. I think I might try a very simple blouse pattern this weekend. I need to practice practice, practice! as my stitches are not always straight right now! I'm hopeful that I'll be an adequate seamstress in no time.

Thanks again to Leigh Ann, Rachel, and Courtney for putting together such a fun class!

cat lady stuff

my cats, ever since we moved into a house with a backyard and a fence - they are obsessed with going outside. Neither of them have front claws (i got them from the shelter that way, i would never declaw), so they can't be outdoor cats, but I do take them out while i'm gardening so they can pretend they are jungle cats. cats of the azalea and hosta jungles.

If i open the door and leave the screen closed to get some fresh air in - it sends them into high alert.



how do we get from here, to there?



perhaps if we work together..



or we could cute her to death...



I am bored by your reasons for not letting us out.



bird!

Bella, the Tortie, she is a bit simple. Well, actually, we're not sure she's simple, because Bella is like a cat Rain Man. She will sit and stare at walls for hours and she is scared of everything from the ceiling fan to her own shadow. But she knows how to open doors, and is scarily strong. Like, this cat is ripped. Also, occasionally she will give the other cat a quick whap on the head for no apparent reason. She's freakin adorable and likes to sleep in the nooks behind our knees while we are sleeping. I sometimes chase her around and tell her, in the voice from that kid in Despicable Me, that she's' "So Fucking Fuzzy!" -poetic license taken. Also, we rarely call her Bella. Its most often Root, Rootie or Rooster. It started as Belarus..don't ask.

Tash, my Tabbie, she is a trip. She is crazy smart and gets bored easily. Sweetest and friendliest cat I've ever met. She's also a lap cat (and shoulder cat, whatever part of you she can sit/nap on) and my baby, I've had her for seven years. Best cat to nap with ever, but she will wake you up by biting your toes and your nose, oh so gently and annoyingly. or playing with the blinds. she has learned that gets our attention. what a fun discovery, huh?

ok! so that should just about cover talking about my cats for a while. Thanks for hanging in there!

the fashion, it is

between Mary-Kate / Ashley Olsen's new handbag line for The Row:



and Lauren Conrad's new line, Paper Crown:



We're gonna need a bigger wallet.

Also - The Row....gah! I don't want to love it, but the bags, they have tipped it for me. There is nothing I hate more than of the season gaudy logo-ed it bags and they completely avoided any of that.

LC - good on you, girl. Your Kohl's stuff is pretty cute too. Way to not be Heidi.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

I made a thing!

Ya'll, I have made a thing. A functional, real, thing. With the sewing machine. I made it. It is a drawstring pouch/gift bag thingamajig and I made it! It is a little wonky, but here it is, in all its glory:



and with the drawstring pulled tight a bit:




Already, I can see that I can make pillow cases. I mean, of course, look at my thing. Oh, it's on. It is ON with the making of the THINGS!

I'm so psyched!

p.s. the bottom picture is framed crooked, I mean, its not THAT wonky. I done good.

p.p.s. I showed Fred my creation and he tried to put the cat in it. No cats in things, new rule.

Step 2 in becoming a '50s housewife

On my lunchbreak today, I bought a sewing machine.

A nifty little Singer number from Sears.

I'm so excited I may burst!

I have a sewing machine, you see. I LOVE my sewing machine, from a sentimental, nostalgic, vintage-y perspective. It is truly awesome. It has a little label printed out with my mother's maiden name, gah the wonderfulness. But it is from 1954. And its fussy as hell. As in, no I WON'T pick up your bobbin thread and then when I do no I WON'T sew anything. I'll just make noise and holes.

I have spent many hours trying to get the thing to sew. It don't wanna.

So, although I struggled mightily with this decision, I decided that sewing is frustrating enough without old machinery. The old sewing machine will be a proud family heirloom that one day when I understand sewing machines, I will fix.

The new little Singer will take all the abuse of a new sewer. YAY compromise!

About a month ago, I purchased the Home Ec online course from Leigh Ann, here. (don't know her, but love her). I've been just patiently watching my tutorials and waiting, and then trying to make the damn machine sew, and then failing, and then watching and waiting..

And now I get to make the things! Make the things! Yay!

Lucky 13

Good morning all! Well, I don't want to jinx it, but I'm feeling 80% back to normal today. Yay!

Back to the 30 for 30 challenge! Here is outfit number 13:



let's ignore the fact that my hair looks just bizarre today.

Outfit #13 is 4+13+25
Sandals: Colin Stuart
Necklace/Rings/Bracelet: Tiffany

Monday, June 13, 2011

Week 6 Recap / Week 7 Goals

Well hello again. Time to take a look at how I did against my week 6 goals. If you'll remember, this is what I said I'd do this week:

1) Go to the gym 3 times.

I went to the gym twice and ran twice. If I put go to the gym on here, I seem to choose running, if I put running on here, I seem to choose the gym. Because I am stubborn and ornery. Either way, its helping me to get my exercise in, so yay!

2) No processed crap.

I'm still eating based on the guidelines I set for myself 2 weeks ago, so no processed crap. Except for today, see: feeling like crap. I don't have an appetite right now, but if I don't eat, I'll feel worse, so I eat whatever is easy. So far today that has been a water, some chips ahoy, and some oatmeal. Don't worry, I'll be back to normal right quick. I tend to take it a litte easy on myself when I'm feeling like this and I'm okay with that.

3) Really, don't buy any clothes. Just don't. Do not.
I didn't buy clothes. Seriously. I have to think about it to make sure, true, but I did not. Oh wait, I did. I bought running shorts, haha. I could not put up a strong enough fight. But I've worn them twice to go running, and really, that makes them worth it. Exercise clothes should get their own category anyway.

Also..
4) Look at my budget and establish new short and long-term savings goals (I HATE budgeting, but I need to look at this again)

I set myself a budget for non-essentials, which is leniant enough that I can stick to it, but still keeps me on a good saving path. I need to build up 6 months expenses in my savings, that's my new goal. Up to this point, I've been more focused on my retirement account, but I believe I need to also have a good cushion of savings, a safety net.

5) Wear my hair down at least twice. I've gotten stuck in a hair rut

I wore my hair down once. I call this a win, considering it was ridiculously hot and humid last week.

So all in all, I did okay.

For Week 7, I'm going to change it up a bit.

Goal #1 - Survive medication adjustment with minimal interferance into daily life (I mean, really, if I do that and only that, I'm happy)
#2 - Take a long walk
#3 - Finish unpacking all my books - set some aside for donation (read: those I've inherited in random ways that I won't ever read, like how did those Clive Cusslers make their way in, huh? How did that happen?)

I think that's it for this week.

Monday, very Monday

Good morning all!

I don't have a 30 for 30 post today, as I was running late for work and did not take a picture. Also, I am wearing a t-shirt that is not part of the 30 items. Le gasp. The rest of my outfit is though.

This is due to several factors, including: wow I feel like crap (see post from over the weekend for details) and I should probably stay home but I have a report due in this morning so I need to go take care of that so lemme get dressed real quick and oh, this matches and is clean.

Also, I screwed up at work already this morning. Which wouldn't have been so bad had I checked my email this weekend, which I didn't. See: feeling like crap.

Yes, it is Monday. I hope yours is going better than mine so far!

Sunday, June 12, 2011

6/9 - 6/12, 365

Jun 9th
Q: What makes a good friend?
A: Thoughtfulness, loyalty, sense of humor, intelligence, shared values, honesty.

Jun 10th
Q: How many cups of coffee did you drink today?
A: Just one, as per normal. Grande decaf sugar free hazelnut soy misto.

Jun 11th
Q: What is your favorite thing to do on a Friday night?
A: Cook a delicious dinner and watch a movie with Fred. Try to stay up as late as possible =)

Jun 12th
Q: Is something in your way? Can you move it?
A: I may sound like a broken record, but right now my panic disorder is very much in my way. I'm not sure how to move it, but I'm ready to try.

Saturday, June 11, 2011

its only okay sometimes

i feel like the morning after doing ecstacy.

don't worry. its been...13 years or so since I knew what that felt like. I've not lost my mind. I'm actually working on not losing it.

I'm changing the dosage of my medication for anxiety and it makes me feel like, well, like a crack monkey, is the best way to describe it. like coming down off a high. like my muscles are twitching and i'm kind of vibrating but my stomach is upset and i'm kind of tired but can't sleep and my eyes burn like i have a fever and i can't concentrate on much at all.

All because I'm taking up my Lexapro 5mg.

I've mentioned it casually here before, but I suffer from anxiety disorder, panic disorder specifically. when I read up on my diagnosis, I'm embarassed that I'm such a textbook case, hardly original at all. Its a real thing, promise. I know mental illness has a stigma, I am keenly aware of that even as I type this. And mine's a real son of a bitch - limiting, physical, and scary.

friends, if i've ever freaked out on you in the middle of an evening out, thrown money on the table and left, said i'm going outside to get some air only to text you an hour later to tell you i'm not coming back..that was a panic attack. i'm sorry.

I had a major episode almost 2 years ago. It took a long time, but my life is mostly back to normal. Except..

If I have to travel, I will freak out.
If I get stuck somewhere (metro, indoors, outdoors, anywhere i cannot leave if i want to), I will freak out.
I will go to the party, but I will be uncomfortable.

This is why I don't drink (messes with my medication).
This is why I don't drink caffeine (stopped 2 years ago, now hate feeling jittery)
This is why I stay in most nights.
This is why I gained a shit ton of weight (medication, again. also, why I'm changing medication now)

Hardly anyone knows this about me. I don't get anxious about things that make people normally nervous. I am completely fine with public speaking. I actually love to fly, what I hate is getting there, the being somewhere so far away i can't get home quickly and in my own means if i need to.

I get completely and unreasonably taken over by panic attacks at mostly predictable times, which actually makes it worse. the anticipation of an attack can trigger one. any event. at all. easter, new years, my own birthday. my own wedding, dammit, i'm terrified of the EVENT of it all. I won't be a passenger in your car and going out to lunch at work is something i have to consciously choose to be okay with.

my anxiety manifests itself in the usual sweaty palms dizzy symptoms you've heard of, but it also sends my digestive system completely haywire. therefore - group, social, non-escapable food-eating event = no, no, no.

My life is good. Great even. I am very happy. But this? This is part of me. I don't want it to be. I used to be fearless. I miss that.

I'm not trying to be brave talking about this. In fact, I don't talk about it, except to Fred and my family, in the language they've grown to understand. Typing it here is just a start. Trying to not be ashamed. Trying to accept it. Trying to overcome it.

Friday, June 10, 2011

the heart of the matter

You all are aware, I have been, ahem, accident prone as of late. First, with the ankle twisting, and then, with the stairs falling leg bruising. But I'm all healed up now. Back in the gym. And its only supposed to be 85 rather than 90 bazillion tomorrow, so I am planning on a morning run. Perhaps a morning run...to Starbucks, and then a walk back. We know I have a problem.

But! I'm here to talk about another problem. The heart of my shopping issues. The never-ending search for the perfect outfit in which to do X.

I am sitting here, waiting for a candidate to call me back, and I'm seriously thinking deeply about what I am going to wear for my run tomorrow. I am thinking...shorts. I need some running shorts.

Ya'll, I do NOT need no damn running shorts. I will say, no, I do not currently have a pair of well-fitting running shorts, TRUE. However, I have about three to seven (I have no idea) pairs of perfectly good, lovely, as fashionable as they can be given their function, work out CAPRIS. in loose fitting, in mid-range fitting, in running tight crops.

I don't need no damn shorts.

But in my head, I'm picturing me, running, sweating, de-stressing, communing with nature. In these shorts I saw at Dick's Sporting Goods the other day.

These here.

(p.s. love you under armour, you make the best sweatpants ever invented. go local, yeah!)

And now, its like, well I can't fully appreciate the run without the shorts. Meanwhile, this is all still in my head, in my plans for tomorrow. It hasn't happened yet. Yet, I need the shorts.

See, this is the heart of the problem. I get an idea in my head. I'm all, self, I would like to go to a concert at Wolf Trap (I totally am, tomorrow, Bright Eyes, whut!)

Oooh, what should I wear? I have this awesome embroidered cotton dress that would be lovely, but what if it was a shirt and I could wear it with jean cutoffs and then oh yes, that would be perfect, but OMG I need the perfect embroidered cotton floaty summer shirt.

No, no I don't.

If I were planning a trip to Paris? Yeah, I'd be filling my virtual shopping bag with Breton stripe tees, skinny jeans, scarves, and flats (no, I have all that. I must think of Paris a lot).

My wedding, for heaven's sake? Oh, I already have two wedding dresses (calm down, one vintage from Etsy, one deeply on sale from JCrew, I haven't even spent $100 bucks). And now I'm fairly obsessed with this particular dress. In white, duh. Which, FYI, is a dead ringer for my Prom dress.

Perhaps that's what I should do. Get back to my 1995 size (haha, HA, HA!HA!) and wear my prom dress to my wedding. Sweeeeeet.

Also, shoes. These'ms, raaaaaght heres. . Or these. Yum.

So anyway. This doesn't make sense, but this is where my mind goes. All the time. For ever and ever way back when. I am a person of substance, despite all signs pointing to frivolity. Am I the only one? I am, aren't I?

Happy Friday! And outfit #12

Good morning all and Happy Friday to you! I'm not sure I've ever needed a weekend more!

Here is today's outfit, #12 I beleive.



Outfit 12 is 10+20+27
Shoes: Nine West, here (and so insanely comfortable, I'm going to have to get them in black, too)
Necklace, bracelet, rings: Tiffanys

Thursday, June 09, 2011

blue moon

Blue eyed girls like blue beauties.

















polka dot dress * blue car * sofa
* pitcher * hanging chair * blue thistle * bathing suit * party dress

moments in time

when I remember, when I look back, I'm amazed at the little, meaningless things that stand out and stand the test of time.

May 1999. Lee Highway movie theatre. Springtime. Purchasing tickets for a double-header of The Matrix and Go. Me and Ed. The ticket taker, on the right side ticket station (this was the less busy side) said to us, are you over 17? 22 and 21, said Ed, smiling.

I look back now, on IMDB, and the Matrix came out on March 31st. What took us so long?

I remember walking out into the parking lot, still light outside. That feeling you have when a movie has just ended, a movie that REALLY took you in. Do you remember seeing the Matrix? Do you remember seeing those effects for the first time? It stayed with you for a little while, silly as that sounds.

Why this memory. Why "22 and 21"?

My Abercrombie sweater, the one I bought at Fair Oaks. You had to throw it away or be caught in a lie. I loved that sweater. I wore that sweater, at a party, one night, with sweatpants. Because when you are young and hot you can wear men's sweaters and sweatpants to parties like it aint no thang.

Listening to OK Computer for the first time, in your room at your parents house, with Steve. We all just stopped and listened.

I have all these memories.

That sweater is gone. That movie theater is gone, though I live a mile from it. OK Computer stood the test of time, that's for damn sure. Being 21 is gone.

Outfit 11 30 for 30

Hello and Happy Thursday!

Here is outfit #11



Number 11 is 7+15+25

Necklace: Banana Republic? Not sure
Shoes: Talbots
Bracelet/Rings: Tiffany

Wednesday, June 08, 2011

6/6, 6/7, 6/8 265

Jun 6th
Q: Which family member are you closest to?
A: Well, there are only 4 of us in the blood family sense, and we are a very tight knit group. I'll happily talk to any of my family members about anything. Really, anything. Well maybe not to my dad about any details regarding sex and or womanly functions.

Jun 7th
Q: What do you feel grateful for today?
A: I am grateful for so much in my life..My family, Fred, my two wonderful cats, my home, my job, my whole life really.

Jun 8th
Q: What makes you miserable?
A: The dead of winter, and the sun setting before I leave work. Panic attacks. Boredom. Feeling nauseated. Toothaches.

outfit 10 30 for 30

Good morning! Here we are, 1/3 of the way done! I'm not overly enamored of outfit #10, but its okay. It'll do. Somethign about the wide legs on the pants and the shoes. I need some more summery black shoes. Here it is:



Outfit 10 is 2+16+22.

Shoes: Ann Taylor
Belt: Talbots

Tuesday, June 07, 2011

Outfit 9, 30 for 30

Good morning!
Today's outfit is number 9. Numero nueve. This morning was one of those mornings, not bad, per se..but I put on a whole entirely different outfit, put on the accessories, almost out the door..and then something inside said meh, no. So I changed. Outfit #9 is therefore Outfit #2 of the day. Here it is!



Outfit #9 is 3+14+20.

Belt and Shoes: Talbots (yes, I know I wear these shoes damn near everyday, I'm looking for a pair to supplement)
Rings/Bracelet/Necklace: Tiffany

Look at me with my hair down! Working on those Week 6 goals! Also, trying to enjoy one last reasonably tempered (temperatured?) day before we go all 100+ and insane humidity, and my hair will curl no matter what medieval implements I employ to tame it straight. Yay summer!

Monday, June 06, 2011

Week 5 Recap / Week 6 Goals

After a dismal week 4 showing, I made it easy on myself for week 5. Let's see how I did.

1) Go to the gym 3 times.
I went twice. I'm usually a 4-5 days a week go-er, I just kind of fell out of habit with the twisting of the ankle and the falling down the stairs. My bruises are healed, time to pick it back up.

I am going to change up my gym routine a little though. I usually do a long cardio stint (30-40 minutes) followed by a weight circuit, followed by 10-15 minutes of walking or slow jogging. This week, I'm going to do my weights first.

2) No processed crap.
I did it! I mean, I ate the catered delicious food from Tuesday night and the leftovers on Wednesday, but none of the cookies/ding dongs/chips/random crap that we have available in our kitchen. That stuff isn't even good, its just there.

I posted about a new approach to diet here, and I have been following this since Wednesday night. I feel pretty darn good!

3) Really, don't buy any clothes. Just don't. Do not.
I didn't buy any new clothes. I bought one vintage item with a thrift store credit. No money exchanged. Yay!! This is HUGE for me, you have no idea.

On to week 6!
I like these goals, I'm doing them again.

1) Go to the gym 3 times.
2) No processed crap.
3) Really, don't buy any clothes. Just don't. Do not.

Also..
4) Look at my budget and establish new short and long-term savings goals (I HATE budgeting, but I need to look at this again)
5) Wear my hair down at least twice. I've gotten stuck in a hair rut.

Should be a great week!

Outfit #8 30 for 30

Well here it is, Monday morning again! Today is the 8th day of the 30 for 30 challenge.

Today, I've added another piece into the mix. This is it though! No more additions. Drumroll please, item #30 is..this little floral top from Boden. It's one of those things in my closet that makes me go, hmmm, that's nice, I should wear that more often..but then I don't. Who knows why. I added it in to the mix to provide some motivation for me to figure out what to wear it with..or not, and be able to let go with peace.

Without furthur ado, outfit #8!




Outfit 8 is 30+12+25

Shoes: Michael Kors via DSW
Belt: Target
Necklace, Bracelet, Rings: Tiffany

Sunday, June 05, 2011

6/3, 6/4. 6/5 365

Watching the French Open finals right now. I will never get sick of Nadal/Federer finals. Go Roger!

Jun 3:
Q: Who do you miss the most right now?
A: Ahh, you know who.

Jun 4:
Q: Today you wore_________________.
A: The sweetest purple embroidered cotton dress. Easy, comfortable, stylish. I love it.

Jun 5:
Q: What was the last fruit you ate?
A: A banana, mashed up with a little bit of hershey's chocolate sauce, for dessert last night. Yum!

Friday, June 03, 2011

what's in my makeup bag?

Hi all! I thought I would share with you the myriad of products that I use on my face everyday!

Now that it is summer, and with the heat we experienced this week, I do scale back a bit on the makeup. Here is my summer routine:

1)Cleansing and Prep

I use the Korres Quercetin & Oak Anti-Aging Regimen, and I am in lurrve. Korres is a Greece-based company that prides itself on natural, organic ingredients and eco-friendly policies, and does not test on animals. They make super-cute make-up too. I sound like an ad. Well, consider Korres to be Sara-approved. My skin likes it a lot too. You can buy Korres at Sephora (only place I know so far).



2) Protection

After the cleansing and prep, I put on my sunscreen. I use Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Cream for Face SPF 55. Its the only sunscreen I have used under make-up that doesn't either funk up my makeup or slide around.



You can also buy this at Sephora.

3) Base

In the summer, I don't use foundation. I use Cover Girl & Olay Simply Ageless Concealer for under-eye circles and any uneven spots. I blend this with my fingers.




I then use a highlighting powder that is actually an eyeshadow..CoverGirl Eye Enhancers in Champagne. This goes down my nose, across the tops of my cheekbones, on the bow of my lip, in the corners of my eyes, and on my browbones. Very light application and blended thoroughly.



Color!

Next up comes blush. My sister got me an amazing kit from Lorac that has all sorts of colors, so I pick whichever blush suits my mood that day (I have 4 to choose from!) Most often, I use Lorac Pink. It looks super bright but is layerable and is really sweet and subtle.




I finish off my face with a dusting of Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish Powder. I don't use a conventional face powder - this one is transparent and gives you that "HD" finish. Actually, I'm not sure it does anything, but I like it.




Eyes

On my eyes, most days, I use a brown gel eyeliner, Maybelline Lasting Drama by EyeStudio Gel Eyeliner, in Brown. I like the liquid-eyeliner look, but this is SO MUCH NEATER, and doesn't require as steady a hand.



I usually use eyeshadow, but remember that Lorac kit? It has about 30 eyeshadow colors. The two shades I use most are Enlighten (Shimmering Sand) and Sand (Shimmering Pale Peach).




I finish off my eyes with a good couple coats of Maybelline Volum' Express The Falsies Spoon Brush Washable Mascara in Brownish Black.




Lips!

Oh my goodness, do I have a lifetime affair with lipsticks and glosses of all types. I'm going to go digging around in my purse and see what I turn up..hold please.

Ok, not even kidding, I am currently carrying 11 different kinds of lip-coloring or moisturizing implements.

I have:
Clinique SuperBalm Moisturizing Gloss in Rootbeer and Black Honey
Maybelline ColorSensational Lipstain in Cherry Pop
The Body Shop Born Lippy in Satsuma Shimmer
Aveda LipTint in Spice
CoverGirl NatureLuxe Gloss in Peony
Blistex Silk & Shine
Clinique Chubby Stick in Richer Raisin
Revlon SuperLustrous Lip Gloss in Pink AfterGlow
Mac Lustre Lipstick in Sheer Plum
L'Oreal HIP Jelly Balm in Ripe

Whoa, dude. Honestly, what gets used first, in the morning, is not in my bag. It is CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain Lip Color in Wild Berry Wink.



These other colors get used depending on my mood - natural or bright, red or pink. Most-used are probably the Chubby Stick and the SuperBalms.

So that's that! That's what goes on my face each day. Its a lot of work being a girl, you know?

Friday's Outfit 30 for 30 Day 7

Here is outfit number...7? Sure! Sounds good. It's Friday and I am very happy about that. Also, the uber-hot weather broke and its goooorgeous outside. I really shouldn't be inside. Bummer how work is inside.



Today is - I'm really dressed down, but I put on a nice sweater and jewelry so you can pretend I'm not. It is casusal Friday, after all. Also - shirt not particularly flattering (note to self). But very comfortable.

Outfit #7 is 7+20+26
Shoes: Steven Madden
Necklace, Rings, Bracelet: Tiffany
Ring: Ann Taylor Loft

Thursday, June 02, 2011

5/31, 6/1,6/2 365

May 31
Q: How much cash do you have in your wallet?
A: $21

Jun 1
Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how healthy are you?
A: I'll give myself a 6. In the plus column..I generally eat well, I exercise 4-6 hours a week, I have a generally positive outlook on life, I don't drink alcohol or caffeine. One the minus column - I smoke, I am overweight, and I have panic disorder, and a sensitive tummy. Oh those minuses are bad. Ok, 5.

Jun 2
Q: Should you trust your instincts?
A: Generally, yes. Sometimes no, when your instincts are leading you to a place that is comfortable, but not productive or good for you.

30 for 30 Day 6

ok, now I'm sleepy and mad. I just wrote a post, hit publish, and...gone.

But what I said was - I'm really really sleepy this morning, for no apparent reason (slept just fine). And I don't have much to say. So here is outfit #6!



#6 is 9+15+29

Belt and Shoes: Talbots
Necklace: Forever21
Rings and Bracelet: Tiffanys

Wednesday, June 01, 2011

an experiment in diet

Yesterday we had a drinks/apps reception THING, at work. Today, we have LEFTOVERS. This has led to me eating little bits of things that are bad for me but quite delicious. And it has got me thinking about how easy it is to eat things that aren't the best. And it got me on a little research kick.

This is actually nothing new, my curiousity about something called the Paleo diet. I was introduced to it via a blog I read (when it was still published) by Kristin D. She also does Cross Fit and generally kicks ass, but that's neither here nor there.

At first I thought, yeah, yeah, Paleo is another word for Atkins. No grains, no legumes, etc. But its not. Fruit is encouraged.

Let me take a step back. The Paleo diet, for those of you who haven't heard, is based on the human diet in the Paleolithic Era, pre-agriculture. You eat like a caveman, basically. Meat. Fruit. Veg. Honey if you are a LUCKY caveman. No salt, no dairy, no legumes, no grains (well, if you WANT to eat wheat, just as it grows out of the ground, maybe ground into a rough paste, be my guest). No butter. Olive oil is ok. Cause we are Greek cavemen =)

But you get the point. I am of mixed mind about this. Normally, I avoid any and all diets that are overly restrictive. I am much more of the Weight Watchers, you can eat what you want just not too much of it school. This school no longers works for me.

I HAVE seen success over the years with repetitive menus. This is supposedly one of the "Secrets of the Skinny". Oof, it hurts to write that I still am a skinny person...in my head. This appeals to me when trying to start to change your diet. One of the most frustrating things is figuring out WHAT THE HECK TO EAT. So, you hit on a combo that works for you, and you repeat. Once you see results, you venture. It works.

So, combining this Paleo diet idea and my fondness for repetitive menus, well, I made up a menu. It doesn't differ much from what I already eat, actually. Here goes:

Breakfast
2 eggs, scrambled with
Spinach
Turkey Bacon
1 banana

Lunch
Big-ole salad from Whole Foods salad bar with some grilled chicken breast, couple of tofu pieces, and balsamic vinegar dressing
Peaches

Dinner
Some kind of protein (the only part that i plan to switch up - grilled shrimp, grilled or baked chicken, steak, bun-free burger, veggie burger, etc.)
Grilled veg - generally squash and/or asparagus or roasted peppers and mushrooms

Dessert
Coconut Milk Ice Cream with Honey

Ok - sounds pretty good, right? Seriously.

So, curious, I plugged this day into Weight Watchers. Guess what? Bam. Exact correct number of points for a day.

Freaky.

So, I am eating this tomorrow. (And dinner tonight, but full day tomorrow). If I like it, I will eat it the next day. Etc. If anything good happens as a result, or bad, I will tell you about it. But we're not calling it a diet, mmmkay? Ok then.

30 for 30 Day 5

Good morning! Wow, it is HOT. Just ridiculously hot. Hot when you walk out the door at 8am, so hot that you don't even want to know what its like at 1pm. But in the office? Its cold. So how does one dress? In linen and layers, is what I decided today.

Here goes outfit #5!



outfit #5 is 3+13+19

Belt: Ann Taylor
Sandals: Colin Stuart
Necklace, Bracelet, Ring: Tiffanys.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Goals! Week 4 Recap / Week 5

Well, last week was...not productive. Here goes, progress against Week 4

1) That processed crap one again

I ate some Chips Ahoy. Because they were there. Just one occurance though.

2) Finish decorating the office

I put my rug down, refinished my chair, cleaned up the sewing area. Still waiting for my new couch/bed thing from Target.

3) Run. Run Run Run. Commence with running. 3 times.

Uhhh no. First, I fell down some stairs. Then, it became 90 bazillion degrees. Back to the gym, as long as the weather is like this.

4) Try to write a short story.

I didn't. But I did paint, so can I trade one creative category for another?

5) Don't buy ANYTHING that is not a cigarette,from starbucks or essential to comfortable survival. Mean it.

Yeah, again, no. I went to Anthropologie. Bad idea.

6) Really, wow, ok. Don't go to starbucks. Shock the monkey.

I didn't go to Starbucks the day after I wrote this! But then I went back. Because I am addicted. Weird fact here? I don't drink caffeine. At all. I'm actually addicted to Decaf Soy Sugar Free Hazlenut Mistos. WTF.

I honor of my complete fail, I thought I'd make Week 5 a little bit of a confidence booster week. Simple. Easy.

1) Go to the gym 3 times.
2) No processed crap.
3) Really, don't buy any clothes. Just don't. Do not.

Ok! That's not so bad. I can do that. These 3 can just be my goals every week, and if I succeed at just these 3, I will be accomplishing more goals than you can know.

Day 4 30 for 30

Welcome back to the work week! Urgh. As you may have noticed, I missed posting on Friday, Day 4 of my 30 for 30. Frankly, I was too excited to get out of work to remember to post. You didn't miss much, promise!

So, today, Tuesday, is my 4th 30 for 30 outfit. I almost didn't go 30 for 30 today. I almost wore a suit. I thought about the suit because, well, I'm meeting the Governor tonight, at a work function. But then I decided, well, Gov, its 90 degrees at 8am, and I don't want to wear a suit. And I don't really like your politics (I won't say that. Maybe). So, no suit.

Here's what I am wearing today:



Outfit #4 is 10+16+17

Belt, Shoes: Talbots
Necklace, Bracelet, Rings: Tiffanys.

I'll do another post on my goals. It won't be pretty.

Monday, May 30, 2011

nature and beauty

oh, how Monday can be so blissful when its a holiday! all while Tuesday grows more eeevil.

i was thinking today about perfume. really, i was. as the days turn hot hot and more hot (and humid), its inevitable that we start to think about how we smell.

me, I prefer natural smells. to be completely honest, i adore sandalwood and ylang ylang. i even like patchouli (a little bit). give me a sandalwood candle any day of the week. but i've long since graduated beyond my perfume oils from the body shop (they dont even have the perfume oil bar anymore, not to mention passion fruit facial cleanser, oh body shop, i once knew thee). it doesn't mean I've graduated away from my love for natural scents.

right now, I use The Body Shop Almond Shower Gel and Carol's Daughter (yes, I am) Almond Cookie body scrub, so I already smell pretty almond-y when I get out of the bath (or, as Fred says, like marzipan). Then I use The Body Shop Nut Body Butter, which has a distinctive smell all its own. My hair, for its health and to preserve color, gets a wash of cold water mixed with Apple Cider Vinegar before i get out of the bath, which can't smell once rinsed, but who knows.

To be safe, I put a few drops of blood orange essential oil in with my Moroccan Oil, which is the first thing to touch my hair, after washing, before combing.

Add to that my deodorant, my face potions, my sunscreen, etc., and I already smell like a lot of things before perfume even goes on.

Right now I'm using 2 perfumes that i LOVE. One I just discovered, its called Grove New York. I found it at Anthropologie. My only wish is that it would last longer. I'm also using a body spray called Gardenia by Marc Jacobs. This one is easy, I ADORE gardenias.

Perfumes I want: Something satisfyingly sandalwood-y, haven't found it yet. Royal Apothic Eau de Parfum in City of Angels, it smells just dee-vine. I don't think it smells like los angeles, but whadda i know?

Also, when i can convince myself to just go for it, Jo Malone Sweet Lime and Cedar and Vintage Gardenia.

What's your favorite scent?

5/29 and 5/30 365

May 29
Q: If you didn't have any responsibilities for the day, what would you do?
A: Dudes, I didn't have any responsibilities yesterday. Other than feeding the cats. So what did I do? Finished refinishing my chair. Tried to get my 1954 sewing machine to sew (fail). Went to JoAnn Fabrics and Anthropologie. Read a lot. Made a small painting. Cooked dinner. All in all, a good day.

May 30
Q: What is the best thing you read today?
A: Its 10 am, there will be a lot more reading done today. Actually, so far I've only read the comics, so this may be an "Ask again later" type question. Sorry.

Saturday, May 28, 2011

5/26 - 5/28 365

May 26th
Q: List the things that nagged you today.
A: On Thursday, the only thing my mind was on all day at work was a proposal that is due on Tuesday. Thursday was the last big push for my portion. Worked a full 12 hours, then went home happy in the knowledge that the next day was Friday followed by a long weekend!

May 27th
Q: What gives you comfort right now?
A: My home, Fred, my cats, curling up in bed with a good book.

May 28th
Q: East Coast or West Coast? In between?
A: I'm an East Coast girl from an East Coast family. I love DC. I love New York. I love Boston. I love Camden, ME. I love Wilmington, NC. That said, my favorite city in the world (at least that I've visited), is San Francisco. I feel instantly and totally at home whenever I am in San Francisco. California deeply appeals to me. I would like to visit Seattle, I have a feeling I would really enjoy the Pacific Northwest as well. So, which one is better? One is home, and will always be home as long as my family is here. One is a beautiful, amazing place, that I will visit over and over again and where I may one day live. So, both? As far as the in-between, there is a lot of the in-between I haven't visited. But I adore Louisville, Kentucky. I have a feeling I'd be quite happy in Boulder as well.

my happy place

Oh my goodness, has today been so perfect. Most perfect moment: In my office/studio, re-finishing my new chair, listening to Wait Wait Don't Tell Me on my awesome 80s radio (thanks thrift store), with the window open and a light breeze coming in, drinking a cup of coffee. Fred was downstairs in the garage with his buddy Matt checking out the Mad Max mobile (my nickname for the Audi he brought back from Kentucky). This is my own personal little heaven.

It's tough to type this without thinking of jinxing myself, but wow, I am so HAPPY with my life right now. This is the first time in my life that I don't feel like I'm waiting until something. I am enjoying the here and now and even better, conscious of how wonderful it is. I'm not saying its perfect, but this is the time to enjoy life. We have a really good life. Every cliche I've ever heard about the 30s being a great time of life, well..it would appear to be kind of true.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

30 for 30 Day 3

Good morning!

Today is the Thursday before a long weekend, and while I expect today to be rather busy, there is nothing quite like the slowing of the clock as work hours count down before a holiday.

I think Memorial Day is rather special, the most anticipated of work holidays. Perhaps it is the long stretch since the last holiday (President's Day if you're lucky, New Year's Day if you're not!), or the arrival of summer (oh, its here, its already 82 out right now), but the anticipation of Memorial Day is truly unlike any other holiday.

Today, I am introducing 30 for 30 item #29..the "right" cream cardigan. This is the one I couldn't wait for on Tuesday, haha. Its from Urban Outfitters.




Today's outfit is 6+16+29

Shoes: Talbots
Belt: Target
Necklace, Bracelet, Rings: Tiffanys

Happy Thursday!

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

5/25 365

May 25th
Q: If you could travel anywhere tomorrow, where would you go?
A: Sweden.

30 for 30 Day 2

Good morning!

I'm only on Day 2, but the 30 for 30 challenge is already making me laugh at myself, and maybe catch a glimpse into understanding myself a little better.

When I walk into the closet in the morning, and look at my 30 items, all I want to do is wear anything ELSE in my closet. Am I just extremely talented at self-sabotage when it comes to goals, or does my Damn the Man attitude simply extend itself to Damn Me, when I'm acting as The Man?

Either way, I think this is going to be fun and enlightening. And I did come up with a great 30 outfit when all was said and done. Here it is!



See, don't I look happy about it?

Outfit #2 is 10+14+20

Belt: Talbots
Shoes: Talbots
Necklace, Bracelet, Rings: Tiffanys

p.s. - my bed may be unmade, but it looks mighty inviting right now. mmmmm nap.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

5/23 and 5/24 365

May 23rd
Q: What's your hairstyle?
A: Right now, my hair is in its natural wavy/curly state, and is about 2 shades darker than my natural color, making for a nice pretty light/medium brown. Most days, I let the curls air dry and then pull it up.

May 24th
Q: What motivated you today?
A: The light at the end of the tunnel! My team has been working on a big project and we are thisclose to being done! Just in time to enjoy Memorial Day, I hope.

So Pretty

Look what grew in my garden! This is what I came home to last night. Thank you Mom and your green thumb!