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!

30 for 30 Day 1

Good morning!

I'm feeling so accomplished. I picked out my 30 items of clothing for the 30 for 30 challenge last night. I am NOT feeling so accomplished in reviewing my pictures. I seriously phoned it in with these. I'm sorry. I'll even re-take them for you. But for now, I want to get them out there and get started!

Some ground rules I've set for myself. I'm only doing the 30 for 30 on work days. I'm not counting shoes. Accesories are free.

Here we go:

In the T-Shirt Category:


1) White Banana Republic V-Neck
2) Gray Banana Republic V-Neck
3) Black Banana Republic V-Neck (not shown 'cause I had it on while taking these pics)

In the Blouses/Shirts Category:


4) Ann Taylor Loft Raspberry Blouse
5) J Crew Navy Blouse
6) Anthropologie Patterned Blouse
7) Target White Blouse
8) Forever21 Floral Bloyse
9) Target Olive Blouse
10) Ann Taylor Loft Floral Pattern Blouse

In the Slacks category:


11) J Crew Light Gray Slacks
12) Ann Taylor Loft Brown Slacks
13) Victorias Secret Black Linen Slacks
14) Victorias Secret Denim Slacks
15) Victorias Secret Black Slacks
16) Victorias Secret Charcoal Grey Slacks

In the Sweaters Category:


17) Target Raspberry / Maroon Cardigan
18) Grey Roundneck Pullover (not sure of brand)
19) Black Banana Republic Cardigan
20) Grey J Crew Cardigan
21) Light Blue Target Cardigan
22) Target Patterned Cardigan
23) Talbots Pink Cardigan
24) Urban Outfitters Mustard Yellow Cardigan

A late entry, 28) Cream Beaded Target Cardigan, here

In the Blazers Category:


25) Gap Denim Blazer



26) Ann Taylor Loft Gray Blazer

In the Jeans Category:


27) Hudson Jeans

The final two items are to be "Suprise, Yet to be Determined, It's at the Dry Cleaners, etc." type entries.

About the experience of picking these items:

Last night, as I was selecting these items, I thought...Self, this is too easy. I have more than enough room in my 30 to pick everything I ever wear with some room. I have made this too easy on myself, only doing this for weekdays and not including shoes. Or maybe, self, you are just really really good at mixing and matching and optimizing your wardrobe already.

Oh, self.

This morning, I eagerly went to the closet to get dressed. Of course, having picked out these items last night, I had an outfit in mind. I put it on. I looked in the mirror. I made a face. Hmph. I went back into the closet.

There, in the closet, I met my Inner Fashion Brat. Ok, I thought - let's just look at what we have, and pick something else.

Inner Fashion Brat (IFB): "I wanna wear that cream cardigan over there."

Me: "No, it's not in our 30, because there is another cream cardigan that is better that is at the dry cleaners, so I'm afraid you'll have to wait"

IFB: "But I WANNA."

Me: "No, we have this whole nice group of 30 here, pick something else out. Look, this nice olive shirt, for example."

IFB: "Olive only looks good with cream."

Me: "Um, no, that can't be true. Olive looks good with lots of colors. Red, Black, Tan..."

IFB: "You know it looks better with Cream."

Me: "Sigh. You're right."

IFB: "Yaaaaay I win"

So, yeah. I think IFB may be responsible for my spending habit as well. But I can't blame it all on her.

Here is my outfit for today. Numero Uno! See what I mean about phoning it in on the pictures? I caught myself blinking and didn't even take another one. I'm sorry.



This outfit is 9+15+28.

Necklace: Forever21
Belt: Target
Shoes: Talbots
Rings, Bracelet: Tiffanys

Monday, May 23, 2011

Week 3 Progress / Week 4 Goals

Well then! Yes, with the ow and the ow. Progress report time!

Week 3 Progress:

1) Were gonna stay onboard with that "don't eat any of that processed packaged crap available to you at work" theme - seems to be a good reminder.

It was not packaged, and probably not processed in the manner of which I speak, but the Service Desk hosted a thing with cupcakes from the local bakery and I had a cannoli one. As in, vanilla with almond and cannoli filling and whipped cream icing with mini chocolate chips, oh dear god. But that's it! So that's good.

2) Finish decorating the master bedroom and my office

I am 90% done with the master and 10% done with the office. So that is good, too.

3) Get that dang pedicure.

Yeah, I bought a thing, like a piece of furniture, with the expensiveness, although really quite cheap for furniture (thanks Target for blatently copying Crate and Barrell, love you mean it), but the pedicure costs suddenly seemed extravagant. So I painted my own toenails Revlon Red. And then I smudged them. And repainted them. And then when I fell this morning I scraped it off again. And I will repaint them tonight.

But see! If I had spent money on a pedicure I would have felt WORSE scraping it off this morning, while now I am merely annoyed. And with the ow-ing.

Yayyyyy Week 4!

1) That processed crap one again
2) Finish decorating the office
3) Run. Run Run Run. Commence with running. 3 times.
4) Try to write a short story.
5) Don't buy ANYTHING that is not a cigarette,from starbucks or essential to comfortable survival. Mean it.
6) Really, wow, ok. Don't go to starbucks. Shock the monkey.

I'm feeling snarky this morning, can ya tell?

my morning. its been grand.

Happy Monday! Oh my goodness, I've had a son of a bitch of a morning. I shall tell you about it. First! The outfit. Nothing spectacular today.



That look on my face translates to: Yes, yes, picture of outfit, I must go get my starbucks now I'm running behind schedule.

Interesting factoid - the shoes I have on in that picture are not the ones on my feet now. In fact, the shoes I have on in that picture now need a visit to the shoe doctor.

So, Fred stayed home today. He flew to and then drove back from Kentucky in 1.5 days this weekend, he was kind of beat. So I'm ready, running out the door, and he's right there with me. I was outside, on our front steps, and I turned to say something, and I slipped and fell, all the way down, our BRICK STAIRS. Ow motherfucking shit ow. Fred was hugely concerned, he tried but couldn't catch me. My stuff went flying.

Fred: "Sara, are you okay?"
Sara: "OW shit OW whimper"

Fred picked up all my stuff, from the stairs, and the yard, and in some flowers, and maybe in my hair, including the heel cap to my shoes (nice).

I'm fairly single track minded here. This hurt like a mofo, but here's what's coming out of my mouth

"ugh, did I rip my pants, crap, I have to put on different shoes, I liked those shoes, I've only worn those shoes once! Ow shit, my leg hurts. Dammit, I have to get to starbucks and get to work by 9."

Fred: "Um, hun, why don't you call work and sit down for a minute and regroup?"

Sara: "no, I don't have to CALL work when I'm late, I can show up anytime I damn well please I just need starbucks and I have a 9am conference call that I can do from the car but I don't like to, lemme just go put on some different shoes right quick."

So, I'm up in my room, finding shoes, and I pull my pant leg up to inspect the damage. OMFG. Scrapes and bruises alllll up the right leg. You know shits bad when you have a dark purple bruise 1 minute after falling. I'm all Fred, look, its totally Gnarls Barkley up in here. Anywoo, off to work!

I think I was running on some kind of effed up adreneline rush. I got in the car and left a bewildered looking Fred on the stairs, holding the cat. By the time I got to Starbucks (.2 miles away) I had sent texts saying, "ow, this kind of stings now", and "I hope I'm not bleeding on my pants".

Got my starbucks, got in the car, headed to work. Pulled in at 8:55 or so. Came upstairs, sat down to my computer, dialed in to the conference call, and then realized FUUUUCCCCCK my coffee is in my car and I don't have time to go to the garage and get it WHIIIIINNNNE.

So I did my conference call. Went downstairs to get my coffee. And now I'm here. Oh, and I cancelled my 10am, because really, I can't be arsed right now.

Good morning!


Outfit details. Who cares. No, I kid.

Blazer: Gap
T Shirt: Banana Republic Outlet
Pants: Victorias Secret
Belt: Ann Taylor
Shoes: Ann Taylor (they WERE Enzo Angiolini, but NOOO)
Bracelet/Rings/Necklace: Tiffanys, gifts from Fred.

And THAT'S how I feel about MONDAY. Good thing next one is a holiday.

**this post has apparently been brought to you by Starbucks, warning you that addiction to overpriced coffee beverages may be hazardous to your health and sanity**

30 for 30 update

its Sunday again. And its midnight. And I said I was going to start 30 for 30 tomorrow. And I haven't picked out nor photographed my 30 yet. hmph. I am planning to plan to do all this tomorrow after work. Sometimes I get home from work, eat dinner (or not) and then fall asleep on the couch. We'll see how it goes tomorrow. I still really want to do this challenge, I just need to remind myself to not leave it for Sunday night!

Sunday, May 22, 2011

almost a month of questions catch up!

I had answered about 12 days worth of questions in a post last week, but Blogger ate them. This project is a lot more fun when tackled a day or two at a time, so I'm going to try and focus on doing that. For now, let's get caught up!

May 4th
Q: When was the last time you went swimming?
A: A few days before Labor Day last summer. Of all the things I disliked about my apartment complex in Sterling, I did really enjoy the pool. And the gym. Miss the gym.

May 5th
Q: Today was hilarious because?
A: I have no idea what was hilarious about May 5th, although it was Cinco de Mayo, so surely there was much hilarity occuring in many places. For today, the hilarious moment thus far has been that I finally finally had a good comeback for one of Fred's jokes. I would explain but it would make no sense, kind of inside jokes.

May 6th
Q: What was the last party you went to?
A: Oh, it says something not to good that I have to think about this. I'm somewhat (okay very much) of a homebody. I think, and don't quote me, that it was a bonfire last fall. Agh! Well, next weekend is Memorial Day, and I am definitely going to a party.

May 7th
Q: Who would play you in a movie of your life? Is it a good movie?
A: Yes, of COURSE its a good movie. I have been told I look like Jenna Elfman, so she can play me. Or Jenna Fischer, because I like her. Anyone named Jenna.

May 8th
Q: Who do you think is cute?
A: Fred, obviously. Also, Alessandro Nivola, Conor Oberst, Diego Luna, Matthew Goode, Brendan Boyd...

May 9th
Q: What do you want to postpone?
A: Nothing. When I get an idea I always like to execute it NOW. I'm very impatient.

May 10th
Q: How did you start your day?
A: On May 10th? I no doubt got up, got dressed, and went to Starbucks for a coffee and a protein plate before heading into work. When I got to work, I probably read Rise and Shine, checked on eBay items, and then jumped into work with my 9am conference call. Because that's what I do every work morning. I like it, though, don't get me wrong. Its a good routine.

May 11th
Q: How do you want to be remembered?
A: As someone who loved big, who lived life fully and true to my values and ideals.

May 12th
Q: What are you exploring?
A: My creativity. I've been writing more, drawing more, reading more,learning more, arranging my living space more, just paying more attention.

May 13th
Q: Who loves you today?
A: I can't read this without hearing "Who loves you baby?" in my head, in the voice of that one guy who's super famous for basketball announcement..Dick Vitale? Something like that. Anyway. Fred. Mom. Dad. Beth. Bill. Some other folks I hope.

May 14th
Q: What makes a good enemy?
A: I don't think (i hope) I don't have any enemies, and I don't generally think of them as good. What makes them formidable? Intelligence. Socio-political savvy.

May 15th
Q: What do you consider to be your biggest achievement?
A: I like to think I haven't come close to achieving all that I can in life, but I am so proud of the life and family I've built for myself. So proud.

May 16th
Q: What was your favorite day this week?
A: Saturday. Always Saturday.

May 17th
Q: Today you got rid of ____________.
A: Some clothes! Some clothes I never wear and just take up space but are very nice clothes! I finally started selling on eBay and I am having a bit of fun doing it.

May 18th
Q: If you could go back in time and change something, what would it be?
A: I don't really believe in regrets. Anything I changed would mean I wouldn't be where I am now.

May 19th
Q: What's the most creative thing you've done recently?
A: I have been focusing on encouraging my creativity. I guess the most creative thing to date is my little wreath project, but I have a lot planned!

May 20th
Q: What's the craziest thing you've done for love?
A: I've done some fairly crazy things for love. But this isn't happy crazy. I've sacrificed a lot in my life to be there for someone that I loved, and that probably wasn't healthy for me. But I couldn't not do it. Like I said, no regrets.

May 21st
Q: What's your salary?
A: Damn, question book, you don't just ask that shit. Oh, you are supposed to be a personal journal, right. Its just me who's putting you on the internet. Let's just say I'm quite comfortable.

May 22nd
Q: When was the last time you had an inspiring conversation?
A: I have them a lot! That's the good thing about being surrounded by smart, engaging and engaged people. But the conversations with my family are generally the best and most inspiring. We have a lot of joy in our lives.

my home - a work in progress.

Would anyone like to see some of my house? I spent a lot of time on the master bedroom yesterday. Its still not done, but its cozy and I'm much happier with it today than I was on Friday. Here's what it looks like right now...come on in!











I think we can take some very bold bedside table lamps in here. The ones we have were never meant to be permanent, they are actually from my old office. I've got something along these lines in my head. I'm hoping to find a set that I love during a thrifting trip.






just wanted a picture of Tash. Hi Kitty! Also, shoes and eBay sales bin.

Up next...my office slash guest room. It, um..yeah. It needs some work. I haven't even started yet. I'm going to put another bookshelf in there today (after I build it) and unpack some of those books, but this is mostly a Memorial Day weekend project. Kind of excited! I certainly have some solid ideas of how I want this space to look.







My Calypso St Barth for Target elephant tea pots were downstairs, in plain sight. In case I didn't hear Fred when he said he hated them, I found them in here today. When we are having guests. haha. Ok, they will be MY OFFICE ELEPHANTS then.




Gah! Boxes! Also, The Graduate.

Finally, here's a glimpse of a space I am happy with, the main floor living room.



That's my mini-tour for today! It takes so long to really make a home feel and look lived in, and that has always been my preference over a sleek designed look. 5 months here and I think we're doing okay!

Friday, May 20, 2011

Its Friday!

Happy Friday! I do love me some Fridays.

My Friday outfits are more casual, as Fridays, are...well, they are Casual Fridays, aren't they? I rarely have outside client meetings so I do get to enjoy them most weeks.

Even just 3 days in on outfit pictures, posting my outfits here is really making me more conscious of 1) what looks good on me, and 2) what I have in my closet. It's a lot of fun!

Here's today's ensemble:




No, I don't know what that face I'm making is either.

Details:
Blazer: Ann Taylor Loft
T-Shirt: Banana Republic Outlet
Necklace: Forever21
Jeans: Hudson, here
Belt: American Eagle
Shoes: Target, here
Rings: Tiffanys and Ann Taylor Loft

Thursday, May 19, 2011

design scheming

1) J crew, how am I supposed to concentrate when you've got this, this, and this going on? I mean really. I was just thinking to myself, self, wouldn't a silk stripe top be an awesome addition to your wardrobe? I wonder if jcrew..oh dammit. just stop that. stop reading my mind, jenna. also, may i have a job as a buyer? but no, sad, no clothes buying for me. virtual window shopping only.

2) I'm finishing up the decorating of our master bedroom and I'm putting together some thoughts. I have a couple of goals..fill some empty space, add some organizational elements, create a cozy environment. I have a basement full of inherited furniture from which to pick and choose, so that is good. My focus is more on the decorative and organizational elements. I think I'd like to get a couple more of these bookshelves. these have served me well. I'd like to add one for actual books and one for..well, my shoes. I'm thinking of laying one horizontally to the floor under the windows to store shoes.

Also, I'm going to be thrifting for unique mirrors, that I may paint to match, or may leave as a mismatched set, depending on what I can find. I also need to choose which of our artwork will get pride of place over the bed - I'm thinking about my set of three french Vogue covers - thank you Rachel!

I think I'll also add some small sheepskin rugs. Hopefully will come across some nice mid-century lamps as well.

I can hardly wait until Saturday!

something for a rainy thursday in may

morning! Another outfit post for you today. Please, again, ignore the picture quality and the state of my bathroom. I will get better at this. I will get a tripod. I will find pretty places to take my picture. I do in fact own a digital camera. So then! Today, I had a belt debacle (debuckle, oh thats bad). I need one more notch on my belt (heh heh) (no, really). Let's take a small moment to acknowledge an item of my clothing being too big. Rejoice!...ok and we're done.

So I'm sitting there, trying to make the slight too big belt work. I start thinking, who is this belt made for? I'm not exactly itty bitty and I would appear to need a small. And then my mind goes to... for whom is this belt? You can see where this is going. For whom the belt, tis not for me. Before you know it, I've jumped from Donne to Metallica and in my head I'm all "for whom the belt tolls, time marches On on on on". Yes, it was a dorky moment, and I'm happy to share it with you.

Outfit!



Details:
Blouse: Banana Republic, a few years ago
Sweater: J Crew, here
Pants: Victoria's Secret, in Black, here
Belt and Shoes: Ann Taylor
Rings, Necklace, bracelet: Tiffany's, gift from Fred

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

oh chloe


want.

Week 2 Report / Week 3 Goals

My report on Week 2 is just SAD, because I twisted my ankle on Tuesday morning. In the parking lot of Safeway. Fell right on my ass. It was awesome.

So..no running. No pedicure.

Run outside 3 times this week BEFORE WORK. - See above, Fail.

Again, don't eat any of that processed packaged crap available to you at work. - Ding ding ding!! Did good here this week! No processed crap!

Go through closet and dresser and select items for ebay/goodwill. post ebay items. - Winner winner again! I did this too. I've got 6 blouses up on ebay right now if you are at all curious..

Don't buy anything except food, gas, and household items(this would mean TP, not art or chair)...(and pedicure). - And again, pretty good! I bought 20 records, at $1 a piece, and the thrift store. I don't count those.

Get a pedicure. - See above, Fail.

Week 3 Goals!

1) Were gonna stay onboard with that "don't eat any of that processed packaged crap available to you at work" theme - seems to be a good reminder.

2) Finish decorating the master bedroom and my office

3) Get that dang pedicure.

That's enough, really, that's a lot.

blogger ate my post and other tales

Good morning!
I had written a post over the weekend, and all that remains is the headline. So sad. I seem to have become a victim of the great blogger debacle of '11.

I will re-write to catch up on my daily questions. I also mentioned that I'm putting off 30 for 30 until next Monday.

However..I do have an outfit picture for you today, and I can 100% guaruntee that these items are making it in to my 30. So here goes, first outfit post. Please excuse the picture quality, I'm gonna need a tripod! (also please excuse the unmade bed, ugh)




Outfit details:
Blouse, Target. Here
Cardigan, Urban Outfitters. Here
Pants, Victorias Secret. In Denim, Here
Belt, Target
Shoes, Talbots, no longer available.

(But wow, I'm in love with these)

Necklace, Bracelet, Rings - Tiffanys, gifts from Fred.
Ring - Ann Taylor Loft

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

30 for 30 Remix

Morning! If I had readers, many of you may be familiar with Kendi and her 30 for 30 Challenge. I've decided I'm going to join in for this next one.

The basic premise is that you select 30 items from your closet, and create different combinations of those items and only those items for 30 days. Hence, 30 for 30. Accessories are "free", if you will.

So, I'm going to try this challenge. I'm going to post each outfit here to my blog. I warn you, Fred leaves for work before I wake up, and I go to the gym after work, where I change (imagine that), so I will be flying solo on the picture taking, which will often mean mirror pictures. I'll try to improve on that.

I'm allowing myself "free" shoes too, b/c I don't have a shoe shopping problem, I have a clothes shopping problem. That is the essence of this challenge, to inspire creativity and to "shop" your own closet.

I won't be buying anything during this challenge either. Except if I win the pair of $19 Hudsons on eBay that I have slated for jean shorts. Because I have determined my own Hudsons, regular length jeans, are best suited in fit for to be making the jean shorts but i am NOT CUTTING OFF $200 jeans. Okthanks.

I'm excited. I'm starting on Monday.

Monday, May 09, 2011

Week 1 report / Week 2

Progress against my week 1 goals:

Don't eat any of the processed packaged crap available to you at work - only ate one processed packaged crap item all week, during a stress-fest of a Friday morning. Felt terribly guilty about it.

Run outside 3 times this week - cpmplete fail, have gotten out of running habit due to gym-going all winter. I don't know whether to run in the morning or evening so did neither. This week - morning. Its a good wake up and the weather is pretty and cool in the morning.

Listen to the whole Beastie Boys album in one sitting - almost done, I got through all but 2 tracks.

Kick ass at that thing you have to do on Tuesday - I think I did - still pending results.

Okay, so, not wonderful on last week's goals, not horrible. Time to set goals for Week 2!

Run outside 3 times this week BEFORE WORK.
Again, don't eat any of that processed packaged crap available to you at work.
Go through closet and dresser and select items for ebay/goodwill. post ebay items.
Don't buy anything except food, gas, and household items(this would mean TP, not art or chair)...(and pedicure).
Get a pedicure.

Tuesday, May 03, 2011

5/3. 365

May 3rd (known as the day after my birthday, or boo sad day. also an ex's b-day. he's ok)
Q: If you could have a superpower for today, what would it be?
A: If I could have a superpower ANYDAY it would be to transport anywhere in the world instantly. hellooooo world travel minus any inconvenience. seriously, i want this to be possible. like star trek. get on it, scientists.

Monday, May 02, 2011

birthday bloggin

hi! so its my birthday today!! woop! I'm ..gasp..33. But I feel great. Really really great.

ok, so my question of the day today is:
May 2
Q: Are you hesitating?
A: Whoa, little question book. You can't be asking that of an engaged lady planning a wedding. Ok, well. So. Ahem. No, not hesitating. Thinking, deeply, about lots of BIG THINGS, yes. Hesitating to type that I'm not hesitating, so maybe a little bit. But really, feeling quite solid and happy about life in general, really.

Let's take it broader. I do, by nature, and by disease, hesitate. It kind of comes with the territory of panic disorder. I hesitate to do anything that will stretch my comfort zone, and so life is a series of hesitations. I'd love to be rid of it, but managing it and behavorial therapy is what I can do, so..that's what I do.

Where do I not hesitate..
When I know what I'm doing and what I want to get done.
To express love for those that I love.
At the thrift store when I see the perfect thing for that one place in that one room.
To sit back and enjoy life and maybe not vacuum right this second because its sunny out and I have a new book.

Another thing I want to do this year, is not to make grand plans and goals for "before 34" but to make small weekly goals each and every week to make myself better. (Thank you Danielle at Sometimes Sweet for the inspiration).

Week one of my 34th year..

Don't eat any of the processed packaged crap available to you at work.
Run outside 3 times this week.
Listen to the whole Beastie Boys album in one sitting.
Kick ass at that thing you have to do on Tuesday.

So, happy 33rd birthday to me. Thank you mom and dad for life and the life you gave me. I love you so much.

Sunday, May 01, 2011

4/17 to 5/1

Apr 17
Q: What do you think is your biggest shortcoming?
A: A unique combination of procrastination, proneness to daydreaming, laziness, and conceit.

Apr 18
Q:Write down a problem you solved today.
A: A crossword is just a word-problem, right? Did one of those today.

Apr 19
Q: What famous person would you bring back from the dead to have dinner with?
A: Hunter S. Thompson

Apr 20
Q: How many times did you curse today?
A: I think just once. This is rare.

Apr 21
Q: What do you want to say when someone asks, what do you do?
A: I like what I do, although I would prefer to do it in an industry I care about. Also, lifestyle blogger. As in, that is my only job.

Apr 22
Q: You wish you could stop ________________ from happening.
A: Death of loved ones. Not sure how to answer this differently.

Apr 23
Q: How would your parents describe you?
A: Unique. Impulsive. Successful (i hope). Beautiful (its my parents, come on). Smart. Indecisive.

Apr 24
Q: Is life fair? Yes? No? Sometimes? Not today?
A: I think life is fair in that noone is targeting for bad experiences or anything. I don't believe that there is anything doling out this supposed fairness. But the experience of life can sometimes feel very unfair.

Apr 25
Q: Who do you need to call?
A: Everyone, probably, I'm not much of a phone person.

Apr 26
Q: How much spare change do you have?
A: 1.79, in my purse

Apr 27
Q: What "type" of person are you?
A: I don't know. Per Myers-Brigges, INTJ. A nice person, an interesting person, I hope.

Apr 28
Q: Who would you trade places with for just one day?
A: I'm not sure I would want to, really, but as long as I'm assured its just one day...I still don't know...oh, I guess I would spend a day as a mother, so I can see if I love it or hate it. But then, I wouldn't BE me, would I? sigh. Okay, I'll go for vanity and be crystal renn.

Apr 29
Q: Who can you make happier? how?
A: I think everyone is responsible for their own happiness, but I could probably postively affect Fred's happiness - or not, I'm perfect and he's still a curmudgeonly bastard. Whom I love. My cats, I can give them ham.

Apr 30
Q: What are 3 words to describe your social life?
A: Non-existent, except, once in a while. hehe.

May 1
Q: Messy or neat?
A: Natural tendency is far from detail-oriented, and therefore somewhat messy. But I cannot stand a true mess for long.