Mama Marshmallow

Compress This- Need Fashion Advice

2012-01-16T12:54:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned in my last post, this pregnancy has been rough. One of the most embarassing issues so far is the fact that my right ankle is now home to a combo of vericose and spider veins. I also have smaller patches throughout the same leg. I am mortified as my legs are one of my better assets. I am self concious about it when I wear shoes that don't cover my feet, which aside from boots, is everything! I don't know what I am going to do during the summer. Just grin and bear it, wear an ace bandage or a maxi skirt every day.

My docs say that it should get better after the baby is born however, I already plan on marching down to the nearest laser center within a few months of delivery to get them zapped. I am normally not that vain (no pun intended) or superficial but since people can see them with normal shoes, it is making me obsessed.

At my last check up, my OBGYN recommended wearing compression stockings to help things not get worse. So of course, being desparate I ran to the surgical supply place and threw down $80 on a custom pair. I now wear them all day long which still doesn't help with the shoe problem. In fact, stockings poking out of my shoes are actually a lot more obvious than the situation itself. Needless to say, if I wear tights or boots, there is no problem. However, I don't know if I can physically wear dresses or boots every day until May 3rd.... I love me some flats and heels... and is it even appropriate to wear boots so much?

Just call me Blanche.

Meanwhile, I have started exercising more to help with circulation and been drinking a lot more water. However, I am terrified to see what they look like in another 16 weeks. I just need some suggestions as these mofos are driving me mad!

Pregnancy Must Haves

2012-01-10T14:35:00.000-08:00

Ladies,
This pregnancy is ROUGH! Second time around is not easy. I have had so many ailments that I feel like an old lady! But, there still isn't anything better than feeling your baby kick all day long! Now that I have dug out from the holidays and finally wrapped up being sick and being kicked in the butt by the stomach flu I feel like things are coming together. I got to thinking about things that I have to have this pregnancy, some are craving related... some are just a requirement to have in the house. So without further ado:

1) Pineapple: Whether fresh or canned, I love pineapple. Something about the acidity and sweetness that makes me feel like I am having dessert at the end of the day without eating too many calories.

2) Oatmeal: This was a morning staple when pregnant with Miss S and has proudly made it's comeback. I like it plain, no sugar: just cinnamon, raisons and bananas.

3) Donuts: I love donuts preggo or not preggo, but this time it is all I can think about. Just thinking about them makes my mouth water and I need to find a glazed old fashioned now! I am trying to cut back on my sweet intake after the holidays, but this recent craving is hard to battle. So far I have only indulged in 2 donuts since being pregnant. That is how much self control I have.

4) Pretzels: Again, I wanted them with Miss S too. I prefer the Safeway brand the best. They taste fresher than Rold Gold and are more salty, which is nice.

5) Cereal: I am typically not much of a cereal eater, but I think because I crave sweets so much right now that having a bowl of Cheerios or Kix is kind of a way to satisfy my sweet tooth. We'll see how long I fool myself.

6) Apples and peanut butter: Seriously my favorite snack that always fills me up. I regularly bust this out around 3 p.m. at work when I need something to curb me over.

7) Fruity Mentos Gum: Again, this is a band-aid to help solve my sweet tooth, but I only start popping another piece into my mouth so I don't know how much of a fix it is.

8) Lemon Water: I got into this before being pregnant. I prefer it luke warm so I can drink it faster. I love it, it's so refreshing.

9) Craisins: Love them and just tried the Pomegranate Craisins and they were very tasty too.

10) Apple Chips: I just picked up a giant bag from Costco on Saturday and am already half way through. Love that they aren't full of calories and good for you too!

So that sums up what is in my pantry/refrigerator at all times. I was originally going to go with things other than food, but I guess we'll save that for another post.

What to Wear: Maternity Edition

2011-12-13T09:41:00.000-08:00

This belly is getting big. So big that at just shy of 19 weeks I am scared to see what I'm going to look like at 39 weeks, especially since Miss S was 9.5 lbs! Yes, that is correct. As I have mentioned before, each day is like a new day of discovery on how the heck I am going to dress for work. Weekends are easy (LEGGINGS), the weekdays, not so much. I ordered some stuff from GAP and Old Navy to get me covered. This is me looking 6 months prego, my iPhone camera is not capturing my true glory.

Don't you love the sun shining through the shutters? Makes my shirt looked striped!

Tunic: GAP Maternity
Navy Blue Leggings: Forever 21
Navy Blue Scarf: Target
Argyle Socks: Macys
Grey Boots: Steve Madden

Santa Can You Hear Me?

2011-12-05T09:40:00.000-08:00

Santa, hope you are reading this, I have officially compiled my wish list this holiday season. After last year I realize I need to do this or else :) In order of priority:


Kate Spade Tudor City Stacey Wallet in Spearmint

Clarins Hand & Nail Cream

GAP Cozy Bar-Stripe Scrarf


Tiny Gold Heart Necklace this one I found on Etsy

What is everyone else asking from Santa this year? Of course besides the healthy family, friends and a year of wealth?

Preggers Fashion

2011-11-30T14:32:00.000-08:00

Like most pregnant ladies, I feel it is hard to dress with a bun in the oven. I am almost 17 weeks yet totally have a belly, can't button any of my pants, Bella Bands ride up and are so uncomfortable. Basically on the weekends I live in leggings. I mean, I seriously don't get out of them. For the work week I have to be a lot more creative. So far I wear dresses probably 3 out of 5 days a week. I love wearing dresses in general but now they are the only things that seem to feel comfortable. I am not wearing maternity dresses though. I am trying to pull off non-maternity clothes for as long as possible since maternity clothes seem to run so freaking large.

I did just place a substantial order with Gap and Old Navy to get me started with some basics. Unfortanetly all of the clothes I have from being preggers with Miss S are summer clothes. Not exactly going to work.

So this is what I am rocking while 17 weeks prego. Still trying to look chic but comfortable at the same time. I received a compliment so hopefully I pulled it off. Don't mind the back drop. Only full length mirror is in Miss S' room!

Cardigan: Old Navy
Blouse: Old Navy
Skinny Jeans: Gap (with Bella Band)
Leopard heels: Steve Madden

Tis the Season

2011-11-21T18:46:00.001-08:00

For eating yummy things like this number on the Southern Living cover. My new addiction, btw. Also, since I've got a Bun in the Oven, it's all I can do to not think about cinnamon buns in the oven. True story.

I'm back....

2011-11-20T20:50:00.000-08:00

Wow, really did I take that long of a break? I can honestly say I just ran out of time and things to say. I can't say that I have more time now or more stuff to talk about, but I will say that I missed the blogosphere. I missed my 4 commenters, missed being able to discuss random thoughts, post outfits (or at least be motivated to post my outfits), but I just decided, I needed to get back at it.

So without boring everyone of what I've been up to. Let me just tell you about that things are basically the same around these places, except that I am 15 weeks preggo with Baby #2. Hubbs and I are very excited. Hubbs and I talked about a sibling for Miss S for awhile but since our little one is so spirited we decided to just wait it out until we were ready.

This pregnancy seems a lot like my first but different at the same time. I don't have the time this go around to scour maternity clothes online. I just am making my non-maternity clothes work as long as possible because my old maternity clothes already seem outdated and were all for the summer.

We are going to find out what we are having but the big date isn't until Mid December so we will find out just in time for Christmas. What is also cool to see is that some of bloggers I have been reading for awhile, are all pregnant too! So excited for everyone!

I am thinking about changing the name of my blog. But I am not sure to what yet... but stay tuned. My goal is to post a couple times a week. I need to look at it as not like a chore, but as an outlet for me to express myself. Expressing is good.

Favorites Friday

2011-04-15T09:01:00.000-07:00

I've been absent, I know. Work is been too busy and I haven't found an ounce of time for anything. So let's get back into it with a Favorites Friday. Here are some of my favorites for Spring.

White Pants: I had the perfect pair last summer from Banana Republic, however, I washed them and failed to take out the hot pink Post-It note out of the pocket. Basically, I now have a pair of pastel pink pants, which, unless you are in Kindergarten, I haven't found to be a flattering color. This pair from GAP look to be perfect to wear with wedges through the Spring & Summer months.

Essie in Sugar Daddy: Until recenlty I thought that the only time I could pull off nail polish was if I went to get an actual manicure. I found this perfect color that I can put on myself and not see any mess ups. And to be honest, the consistency is really nice so it actually looks perfect right off the bat.

Loreal Sublime Bronze AirBrush: I am Norwegian and German which translates to: one white ass chick. So I fake it through the warmer months with self tanner. I usually try a couple of them each year and this is the first one. I prefer the sprays because it doesn't leave a thick layer subject to streaking and also provides a more even look. This one also doesn't stink.

Bright Flats: Just picked up this pair from Target last week and I love them. Teal is the perfect color combo to pink, yellow, red, camel, brown, black, white, pretty much everything. We all know my love for flats. Here is the pair for you to show off your cute pedicures too!

Aviators: I love Aviator sunglasses. I will take them any day over the big plastic version (not that they look bad) but to me, Aviators look chic and sexy and especially on those days at work when I have a big meeting and am looking fly, just putting them on gives me Instant Confidence. True Story. I am actually on the hunt for some new ones. I have a pair of really nice D&G aviators that have gotten bent while in the hands of a little toddler girl I know... so must get a new pair! Might just stick to the originals this time....

Tina Fey: I have been on the Tina Fay bandwagon before there was a bandwagon. I've always admired her talent, wit, and ability to hold it down in a boys club. As soon as I heard she was putting a book out, I knew I had to get it. Just ordered it on Amazon and I can't wait to start reading it this weekend.

What are your Spring essential Favorites?

Bathing Beauty

2011-04-05T07:16:00.000-07:00

It's April which means there is about one more month before I will be at the pool. One month to update my swimsuit collection. I am a simpleton when it comes to bathing suits. I stick to solid color bikinis that look good on my fair skin- black, brown navy... however this year I feel like venturing out of my comfort zone. Maybe throw in a little print or different style of bathing suit... I haven't worn a one piece since I was about 10- scratch that 16 when I was a lifeguard and wore a red Speedo (this was during the Baywatch days).

This summer I will be taking Miss S to swim lessons. So my question is, is it appropriate to wear a bikini while I take her to the mommy & me class? Should I wear a one piece for that purpose only? I am a huge proponent of the bikini, however, maybe I need to tone it down? Here are some cute styles I saw at J.Crew, which is always known for their swimwear quality.

Always a sucker for sear sucker!

This is my favorite. Love the ruffles, love the Navy- Surprise!

A little outside the box, but I just love ruffles!

Perfect for a BBQ, 4th of July or a vacation in Cape Cod

A simple one piece with of course, ruffles.

Had to throw a striped one for good measure. I like the straps on this one.

Clearly you see I am simple when it comes to bathing suits. I like classic styles and cuts that will look good for a long time.

Liz Claiborne for JCPenney?

2011-03-29T07:09:00.000-07:00

While reading the latest issue of Real Simple (one of my faves), I noticed some advertisements for Liz Claiborne's new line at JCPenney. Actually, I don't know if it's new, I just know that the ads and the clothes caught my eye.

First off, our JCPenney is a little worse for wear.

Second off, I haven't shopped at a JCPenney since I was 7 when I used to order outfits through a catalogue my grandma would give me to choose from for Christmas or Birthdays.

Third, I typically associate Liz Claiborne with women my mom's age.

However, the ads sucked me in and I guess I became what the Creative Agency behind the ads, wanted me to be....sold. So sold, that I actually checked out JCPenney online to see if I could find the cute little pink dress in the ad , however.... not in my size. Some of the other items, didn't look as cute as the ad, duh, but hey it looks like Liz Claiborne has helped JCP's profits soar. That's the business side of my brain talking now. So this partnership doesn't seem to be bad for the retailer.

I couldn't find the ad online, but here is one picture of a pink blouse that I thought was cute. The ads were a mix between the latest Tommy Hilfiger and the Kate Spade- Bryce Howard Dallas print ad campaigns.

Thankful Thursday: Rain Edition

2011-03-24T09:13:00.000-07:00

I almost got washed away by sheets of rain on my way to work today. So with that in mind, I decided to post a Thankful Thursday- Rain Edition.

Rain Boots: I don't have Hunter Boots, however, after this rain season I think they are due for next year. Instead I rock my rain boots from Century 21 I picked up when I was in NYC and stuck in a rainstorm. I've already received plenty of compliments on them today.

Rain Jacket: While not fancy, I picked up this ultra light weight rain jacket from Old Navy last Spring and I wear it a ton. I am not an umbrella girl, I usually already have my hands full and they never seem to keep me as dry as when I just use a hood. Hoods are money.

Frizz-Ease Moisture Barrier Hair Spray: This works really well in wet conditions. I hate flat ironing my hair and then it getting frizzy or limp as soon an ounce of moisture touches it. I found this sucker a couple of months ago and it is my hair spray staple. It works- true story.

Cover Girl Powder: Again, totally not a fancy item, but I keep it in my purse. Since I do rely on my hood my face gets a bit slick in the rain. This sucker fixes it all and brings me back to normal in 2 seconds.

Sofia Blanc de Blancs: Of course, what is best at the end of a waterlogged day? A little bubbly. This one is not fancy, but for a girl who's favorite alcoholic beverage is bubbles, this gets the job done, and looks pretty too!

What do you rely on when there are hurricane conditions outside?

Spring Fling

2011-03-21T09:32:00.000-07:00

The weather on the west coast has been horrendous. It sure as heck does not feel like Spring, maybe a bit more like January. It was my Birfday on Saturday. It also poured all day long. Hubbs and I had a date night where we participated in a little Happy Hour and then tried a new French bistro. I then enjoyed some awesome carrot cake cupcakes that Hubbs picked up for me, my favorite. I somewhat followed the March Madness games but realized I was going crazy calculating possible outcomes. I am hovering towards the top of the pool, but we all know how quickly things can change.

I did make it by the Gap Friends & Family Sale and picked up little S and Hubbs some gear. Oh, and I got a belt. I bought Miss S some Spring clothes, but really it's hard to think about Spring when there is a forecast for torrential downpours for the next 10 days. Some things that I am vying for Spring, when this weather clears up.

This looks like black but it's navy.Nothing more chic to me than Navy. I prefer it over black any day.

These look like the perfect Spring staple to wear with skirts and my favorite-cropped pants!

Birthday Bliss

2011-03-11T08:36:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I feel like my few and far between posts of late have only been of me bitching about being sick. Well, ain't that the truth. Since we moved I have been sick off and on and so has Hubbs, and little S. My cough just now seems to be going away (but not without the help of a little Codeine to help me sleep through it all). I finally feel like I am getting back to normal.

And without further ado... my b-day is just a week and a half away so I of course need to share what is on my wish-wish-wish list. For some reason Blogger isn't allowing me to upload pics, so I am linking, which is so not cool.

A new popcorn popper. I make a bowl of air popped popcorn almost every night. It is the best, but my cheapo popper from Walmart is on it's last leg. I am thinking I need a slight upgrade. I was looking at the fancier Cusinart, but it didn't get good reviews. This one looks like it will get the job done right.

Some casual wedges. I need a comfy pair to wear with skirts, etc. for the upcoming warm weather season. These in Navy look cute and practical.

This purse looks oh so pretty... and a great selection for spring & summer.

And of course no new purse would be complete without a nice wallet to go along with it. I love the red one of these.

Now I need to catch up on all my blogs!

The Plague

2011-02-28T11:32:00.000-08:00

I think it was a week ago that I might of bragged about no one in the house being sick anymore. Karma is a bitch. Because not even 24 hours later I was hit with the nastiest flu. It is now in my lungs and I sound like a tired sealion on the docks of the SF Bay.

So, my outfits have been lame, my hair a mess from the fever sweating, and through it all I have taken my ass to work. I know, I'm such a moran. But today, I am going home early. Because something has to give.... and it can't be my sanity.

Reasons Why I Like Spring

2011-02-21T20:20:00.000-08:00

I think we might be done battling the last round of flu in the house and I finally have a minute to take a breather and check out what's been going on. You know it's been a crazy week when you don't have a chance to check US Weekly and learn from Hubbs that Jessica Alba is pregnant and Ashlee Simpson is getting divorced. Seriously... it's been THAT nuts.So let's talk about the season that is peeking it's head out around here. Well not the past few days (brrrrrr), but will be here before I know it.

Aside from Spring being the season of my birthday, there are a few more reasons why this season is a nice companion to Winter, Summer and Fall.. Like, fall it's an in between-er. Not yet warm, still wet, yet you can probably shed those tights and bare some leg, if you dare...especially my white legs. Here are some other reasons why I enjoy Spring.

-Cherry Blossoms, or really any blooming tree. Our new house has a blooming Tulip tree right outside our kitchen window, so while I do dishes I get to look at something pretty.

One day I will whitness the famed Cherry Blossoms in DC. Until then, I dream through pictures.

-New sunglasses. During Spring time I try to work in a new pair of shades.

These ones from Tory Burch would look fabulous with my usual Spring outfit of a trench, light pants, blousy top and canvas blazer.

-Potato Pancakes: I am so not Irish, however my mom can make a mean St. Patty's Day dinner. And the best part of that: Potato Pancakes. Seriously, I could eat my annual spud quota in one sitting. True story.

These ones below look just like the ones she makes, but taken from Food Network.

-March Madness: Last year I came THIS CLOSE to winning some sweet moola in my office pool. Really I don't follow college basketball, however, it is thrilling watching it all unfold, especially when some cash is involved.

Going Casual

2011-02-13T22:25:00.000-08:00

We have been having some gorgeous weather lately. Very Spring Like. So of course, this means wearing lighter colors . Here is a little number I wore this past Friday. Perfect for a casual day in the office. Don't mind the blurry shot. Not sure what happened there.

Cardigan: Old Navy
Top: GAP
Scarf: GAP
Jeans: GAP
Knee Socks: Charter Club
Belt: Who knows
Boots: Etienne Aigner

Happy Valentine's Day to Me

2011-02-09T21:10:00.000-08:00

I think this would be the perfect Valentine's Day gift, dontcha think? Normally I am not a red car kind of girl-but this one... this one I can do. I have a serious obsession with Volvos. I am on my first and see myself owning one from here on out. This could be a trade up? Um... wait back to reality....Just bought a house, remember?

Saddle Up to the Bar

2011-02-07T21:19:00.000-08:00

I mentioned here that our new house has a wet bar in the living room. While some people, those that may be civilized, would remove it, this bad boy ain't going nowhere. Because how many people can say they have a bar in their living room....? That's right. You can bet your fenced in trampolines that on any given Sunday during football season, any evening in Summer during baseball season, or heck, maybe just because, I will be fixing a cocktail or pouring a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc. Because I can. In the living room.

Again with the fame whore cat trying to sneak in a shot.

Cardigan: Old Navy

Plaid Blouse: GAP Outlet

Belt: Macy's

Skinny Pants: GAP

Ballet Flats: GAP

Necklace: F21

This is what Sick Looks Like

2011-02-02T21:06:00.000-08:00

People. I am in the trenches of Flu-Ville. I have never been this permanently cranky from being sick. Today I was home with little one. My patience was thin, the garage door got stuck going down, the internet and cable decided to call it a day at noon, then when emptying the dishwasher, I dropped one of my Riedel "O" glasses which led to millions of little pieces of glass scattered all over the place. At Target the bed skirt I went to get, was out. Go figure. What I did do a lot of? Watch the squirrels in our backyard tease our dog and cat inside the house. Oh, and watch footage of that big ass storm hitting the Mid West. That alone, is keeping things in perspective.

This is Lucy who is currently sitting at my side waiting for me to drop some popcorn.

Sick as a Dog

2011-02-01T12:14:00.000-08:00

We moved! People, we moved! We. Are. In. I made a first real meal and it feels like home! There is still so much unpacking to do. I just don't have the energy... been a bit under the weather. In fact, I feel like crap, but still drug myself to work today. I've been downing Emergen-C for the past few days, but it doesn't seem to be working. To keep my moving forward, I envision that I have a bouquet of flowers, similar to these sitting on my desk to look at.

Moment of Nonsense

2011-01-27T22:33:00.000-08:00

We are moving in T-2 days, work has been capital C "crazy" all week and my little one has a nasty cold. Because of that, I bring you this awesome card from this amazing web-site called Bluntcard. Seriously fools, I am addicted to it. I promise next week things might be more interesting. Maybe I will be posting paint colors, or tile swatches, or various photos of the lint lifted off the lint screen of our sweet new dryer.

On Point

2011-01-25T09:33:00.000-08:00

Hey Guess what? I still haven't packed much. We have 5 days until we move... my excuse is that I have to wait until Hubbs is done doing structural stuff before I deliver goods. But I did buy a new refrigerator! And a washer and dryer! And new bedding! At least the appliances will be delivered and we don't have to pack those.

However, check out these shoes that I uncovered while sorting through things that I should probably be packing. They are super old Alfani kitten heel tweed shoes, I have worn them probably less than 5 times. I used to love Alfani shoes for being so comfortable, but somewhere a long the line they changed up their quality. More newer Alfani's tare the most uncomfortable things my tootsies touch.

Wow, how the burnt orange carpet at work really goes nicely with the shoes, dontcha think?

I don't wear pointy toed shoes much anymore. Not sure why, maybe it is my love of peep and round toes?

Moving, Moving, Moving

2011-01-23T21:27:00.000-08:00

I've mentioned in a previous post, that we were house hunting. Well, friends, we found a house and got the keys! To kick things off, Hubbs has been at the new house all weekend knocking down walls and what not to create a nice master suite, since before it was miniature.

The house is definetly one that has plenty of projects, but even with the 1970's light fixtures, formica in some areas of the kitchen countertops ???, and wet bar in the living room (which btw, is staying, because hello....wet bar in the living room!), it is still a great house. It just means that when we are done doing these big projects, the house will be exactly the way we like.

We are so excited that just next weekend we will be in our new house! I am not excited about the packing I have yet to do... guess I should get on that.

Fashion Foot Fix

2011-01-19T23:14:00.000-08:00

I have been having some foot issues. Particularily with my left foot and my heels are contributing to the problem- GASP! I've been ignoring this for awhile now because my feet still looked pretty (I have pretty feet, if I must say) so I just chalked the problem up to the actual heels but the truth is, each pair seems to enhance my problem. No matter if it is a cheap pair or nicer pair, at the end of the day, it's not fun. I have even been oblivious to the fact that I have altered my walk to help alleviate the pain. Again, this I am just finally realizing really isn't normal.

If I wear flats, my feet are much better, I whizz around with no worries, and especially, no ghetto limp. My mom pretty much put an intervention on my ass the other day, mandating that I wear more flats so the problem does not get worse.

I guess... if I have to. The truth is I love wearing flats, my issue is just finding the right pants to work well with them. Skinny jeans have definetly helped me in this area, however, I still don't have many "flat friendly" pants that LOOK GOOD. My new favorite pair of pants are black cropped skinny jeans from GAP. I wear them all the time, with heels and with flats, they look so chic to me. Very Audrey Hepburn.

GAP just introduced some new cropped skinny styles that I can't wait to try out. And in case anyone is wondering, my shopping ban goes out the window on this factor because this is for the health of my feet. Here are some styles I am itching to get. They look to be super universal.

Cropped Slim Trousers in Flint Gray.

Cropped Skinny Trouser Jeans

Disclaimer: I wear heels probably 4 out 5 days a week at work. This problem is making me change up my work fashion game by reducing my heel days down to 3. I wear flats on weekends. At this point I can't give up the style and look of heels, I just like them too much. Let's try baby steps, and then go from there.

Black & White

2011-01-18T21:01:00.000-08:00

While cleaning out my closet I came across this skirt from GAP sfrom several summers ago. I figured I would dust it off and pair it with some tights and call it a day. This pic is at the end of the day, hence the shiny and tired face. Let me just say I received many compliments on the outfit today, I think florals in the winter cheer people up. What do you think?

Blouse: Old Navy

Skirt: GAP
Tights: Macy's
Heels: Jessica Simpson
Belt: Target

Monday Morsels

2011-01-17T09:59:00.000-08:00

Going into the new year my goal was to really follow a budget. After cleaning out my closet I realized there were things that I could really work into my rotation that have been sitting neglected for a long time. Of course, there were plenty of things I purged too. So I have been staying away from the stores, but that doesn't mean I haven't been looking online. There are so many things I want/need for Spring that I might just have to chip away at them slowly so I don't blow my budget in one fell swoop.

This looks like the perfect dress from The LOFT for an upcoming March day wedding I will be attending. With a belted cardigan, tights and heels, it could be the perfect Winter to Spring transition dress.

Another floral number. This skirt from The Loft looks like it could be super universal and could go with many different colors.

I don't really think I need to say why I want this Kate Spade purse. It speaks for itself.

I am a trench coat junkie. I wear mine into the ground and my current one is on its last leg. This version from the GAP looks perfect for upcoming Spring downpours.

These bad boys from Nine West would look great with Spring pencil skirts and dreses all the way through summer. Just wish there was a peep toe to show off a cute pedicure.

Is it Weird...

2011-01-13T15:40:00.000-08:00

That I want these outfits that I saw in a GAP Kids ad?

Seriously? How cute are those pastel jeans with the ballet flats?

I wonder what their largest size goes up to....

The Cat Makes a Cameo

2011-01-11T07:11:00.000-08:00

So, yesterday I mentioned it was freezing but I still decided to wear a skirt and brave the elements. I was determined to take some decent shots of my outfit because I had to show off the tights I ended up wearing. I picked them up on sale at, where else, GAP because I wanted some polka dot tights. It wasn't until I was driving to work and looked down and noticed that the dots were actually hearts! I instantly felt like I was 5, 6 or even 7 when I wore white tights with red hearts (which I always loved).
Maybe that is why they were cheap, either way I received countless comments on them from my coworkers. All seemed to like them (or at least told me that).

When it came time to taking my pics last night, Peppermint Patty, our kitty was hell bent on making an appearance in every shot... however she wasn't exactly making the classiest of cameos... I have to teach her a thing or two about being a bit more lady like.

Umm... where did my pinkie finger go? Oh, right-my pocket.

Cardigan: Target
Top: GAP
Skirt: Banana Republic
Tights: GAP
Heels: Jessica Simpson
Watch: Burberry
I was wearing a skinny black belt too, but it kept sliding around so I took it off halfway through the day.

Moody Monday

2011-01-10T16:10:00.000-08:00

It's a freezing Monday in the Bay Area today. And like any other freezing Monday, I wore a skirt for some reason which I am still trying to figure out.... but that is a whole other post.... What is on my mind during this cold air blast before the next rainstorm, is being some place tropical.

Hubbs and I have miles coming out of our ears, we need to use them quickly. We've contemplated taking a trip to Hawaii or Mexico in the near future, however, I just can't get past my love affair with the Bahamas and the Caribbean. We went to Jamaica on our honeymoon and it just felt so magical. Different than when I am in Hawaii.

I saw this place online and can't stop daydreaming about it. Whatever gets you through the day!

Maxi-mize

2011-01-06T11:50:00.000-08:00

I have been seeing a lot of long skirts lately, which I wasn't so sure about because I automatically think of an old American Eagle long denim skirt I wore back in college and I shudder just picturing it. I since then have eliminated the "maxi skirt" from my wardrobe, even if they looked comfy, I couldn't get past the grade school teacher look that I always thought they threw off. It wasn't until I saw this pic of Olivia Palermo (one of my style icons) on a Glamour blog this morning that I realized I just might have to score one this Spring.

Troop Leader

2011-01-04T20:09:00.000-08:00

I had a bigger vision for today's outfit, however, my original skirt just didn't work. It was too wrinkled but the length was better. I pulled a skirt from the Second String a.k.a the back up. The length was not great, it was just too long, but I ran out of time and had to live with it. So I got the outfit on, and realized it was an "okay outfit", probably a solid 5.5.

It wasn't until I was dropping Little One off at preschool that I noticed with my jacket on I looked like a freaking Girl Scout Troop Leader. Proof is in the pudding. While I was a loyal Girl Scout back in the day, unless you are the age where you can still drink out of a juice box and have graham crackers after your nap, then it becomes a lot harder to pull off a with brown tights, a khaki skirt and a green jacket.

I even match the rug!

Denim Shirt: Banana Republic
Corduroy Skirt: GAP (old, probably from when it was still THE GAP)
Belt: Same
Polka Dot Tights: GAP
Heels: Style & Co
Jacket: Old Navy
Scarf: Charter Club
Necklace: GAP
Bracelet: NY Metropolitan Museum of Art

A New Year

2011-01-03T20:08:00.000-08:00

It's always important to start the year off right with the good stuff... Vintage please.

Who thought that emerald green Formica was a nice accent to a kitchen? Because I sure as heck didn't!

It is back to the grind tomorrow. Back to the routines, the early wake ups (wait that didn't stop), but I like structure, as weird as that might sound. It will be nice to get back into those high heels that have been waiting for me for 10 days, although my feet haven't, and get back to looking a bit more put together.

To celebrate my last night of vacation and the start of the new year I plan on sipping on some nice Chardonnay, eat some frozen pineapple and watch "How I Met Your Mother", because there is no better way to start off the year.

Eve of Eve

2010-12-31T09:25:00.000-08:00

Last night I went out with some girlfriends from high school to celebrate the Eve of New Year's Eve. Well, actually it was my friend's birthday. Either way, this is me cheesing it up before I went out to get some drinks. It was so cold out so I had to dress warmly.

I love the princess dress up box that is making an appearance.

Hope everyone has an exciting New Year's Eve! Hubbs and I are out to a nice dinner and from there we will probably find ourselves on the couch trying to stay awake for a countdown.

Open Cardigan: GAP
Tank: Old Navy
Skinny Jeans: GAP
Heals: Alfani
Belt: Forever 21

Sweet Skillz

2010-12-28T10:07:00.000-08:00

So with all of this time on my hands, I thought I would dust off the Nikon DSLR and practice some sweet photo skills. I tinkered around and was able to figure out the auto timer. But since our house is crammed and outside is gloomy, I didn't have many places to set it up. Case in point, the kitchen counter:

Hey, more plaid!

Then I started taking a bunch of pictures of all of the Donald Duck ornaments on the tree. I love Donald Duck, and for the past 10 years or so each Christmas I tend to accumulate another one. Here is a pic of the recent addition.

Still practicing on the Nikon. Gonna take me awhile to figure out better picture taking settings and tinker with lighting.

Closet O' Mine

2010-12-27T19:46:00.000-08:00

I am on vacation until next Tuesday. I couldn't be happier... but I am finding myself with so much time. Time to make coffee, breakfast and brush my hair 537 times if I so please. Time to file my nails after I trim them rather than dash to work with unfiled razor sharp claws. Time to look through the ol' closet o' mine and realize there is a crap load of clothes I have been hanging on to that I keep thinking I just MIGHT wear when/if I get pregnant again one day and need something nice and roomy in the first trimester, or for a special night of going out which doesn't happen often enough, or maybe for a trip to Palm Springs for lounging by the pool, because heck I only wore it once on our Jamaican honeymoon and the dress wasn't on sale for the love of... you get the picture.

I worked in a trendy boutique in college very similar to Anthropologie. While working there I accumulated a lot of higher end labels (for me) that I don't even wear now, yet it was when I was really poor in college... makes sense right (My commission paid for the threads)... So a new little consignment shop has opened up close by and I want to bring in some of these things that I have never gotten rid of because they were kind of worth something....to someone? I have some Free People tops, Michael Stars, a Betsey Johnson beaded sweater which I think was like $250, a Prada purse, a Diane Von Furstenberg dress, etc. etc. All of these items don't fit me right anymore nor do I care for their more "loud" style. And btw... aside from Kate Spade, DVF is my favorite designer, so it really saddens me to part with this dress, however it was a gift and is a light purple gray and sherbert orange striped dress. On my fair skin it looks capital H- Horrendous.

Back to this tanget. With all of this time on my hands, I will be dropping off these more valuable purged items to this consignment store this week and giving the rest to Goodwill. But because I will now have so much more room in my closet... do you think I can work this item in?

This little number is one of the new Spring arrivals at Bannana Republic.

Plaid Business

2010-12-21T09:00:00.000-08:00

Folks, I love things plaid. It is up there with tweed, sear sucker and cashmere. During the colder months I inevitably bust out plaid a lot. Plaid scarves, plaid pajamas, plaid pea coats, plaid skirts, plaid blazers, and of course, plaid shirts. Just last week I wore plaid two days in a row. So of course I couldn't help but incorporate more plaid into this short week before Christmas.

Here is a casual office look. Damn, I really need to get away from taking pictures with my Blackberry. My Canon and Nikon are feeling neglected and cheated. However, being a busy working mommy, I am all about convenience....

Cardigan: J.Crew
Plaid Shirt: Old Navy
Belt: GAP (old)
Legging Jeans: GAP
Boots: Entienne Aigner

Loop it Up

2010-12-20T09:15:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Hanukkah with Hubbs' family this past Saturday night. Instead of getting gifts for everyone and their mom, literally, we drew names and only had to get one gift each. It was great! My trendy and future sister-in-law gave me a really cute heather gray scarf loop thing. I am not sure exactly what they are called but basically it is a huge circle that you loop around your neck as many times as you would like. I busted it out this morning. Looking at this picture it looks super sloppy, however, I have since made it look better.

I have a feeling this is going to be a staple this winter. So easy and so soft. Two of my favorite things.

Except for the scarf, the entire outfit is GAP. The sweater is from 2000 or 2001. Super old and I rarely wear it.

Festive Friday

2010-12-17T11:03:00.000-08:00

Today is Cheesy Sweater day at work. I coordinated the event, so I thought I would show what I wore. This sweater is actually my mom's. She is an elementary school teacher so she gets a bit festive during the holidays. You can't tell because the quality of this photo is bad, but I am wearing a red turtleneck with snowmen, a snoman pin, jingle necklace, Tree earrings and antlers. Pretty awesome. People were looking at me a bit strangely when I was at Starbuck's this morning. I think they were just jealous.

Muggin'

2010-12-15T07:11:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to give a shout out to my favorite coffee mug of all time. I collect pretty Starbuck's coffee mugs. And by collect, I mean I have about 5 or 6, not a hutch full of them on display like little figurines of kittens.

A couple of Autumn's ago, Starbuck's was doing a really pretty watercolor series of mugs for different cities around the country. It was also a time I was doing a lot of fun business travel. I found a watercolor Washington, DC mug when I was there and snagged it up. A couple of months later I was in NYC and snagged another up there.

Needless to say, both are my favorite, but I edge a little more towards the NYC mug because it is my absolute favorite place in the world. Those mugs have avoided many catasophes, somehow. Hubbs, now knows that they are not allowed in the car after I caught one in the cup holder one time. Not cool. So here we are. My NYC mug. Its sister, the DC mug, was in the dishwasher. Maybe it will get its 2 seconds of fame eventually.

Enjoying those first sips of coffee in the morning.

Thought I would add in this pic. I wore a plaid skirt on Monday and the plaid blazer above on Tuesday. I like plaid! Epecially at Christmas time.

Exercise, Shmexercise

2010-12-13T10:03:00.000-08:00

Okay, so maybe I don't really need to work out. I already have an exercise regimen, and it includes a lot of cardio. My fitness of choice? Running. Lots of running.

And she's off...

You can't catch me! I'm helping you burn off those cookies!

Holy Guacamole, 16 Days Left...

2010-12-09T17:18:00.000-08:00

How is it there are only 16 days left before the main event? Good thing Santa has been doing online shopping this year because there are only a few gifts left to get, but unfortunately will have to brave the stores for. Shoot.

I know one person who hasn't done his Christmas shopping yet....and that would be Hubbs. To him 16 days is about 14 days more than he needs. He is known for the late night shopping on the 23rd just so he can say he wasn't out on Christmas Eve. Okay, some years that's the case, but usually when I point out EXACTLY what I would like, he takes care of things earlier.

Things I still need to do in the next 16 days:

- Get manicure/pedicure
-Start exercising so I can combat the holiday cocktails/cookies I have been indulging in lately
-Make some cookies. My favorites are usually good ol' Sugar Cookies, Special K bars and toffee.
-Wrap presents
-Watch Love Actually, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, A Christmas Story, It's a Wonderful Life, Home Alone and Elf
-Take Miss S to see Santa Clause

I was in a crazy rush this morning, but I had to show you my shirt. I busted out my ~~Canadian Tuxedo~~ denim shirt from 10 years ago. Seriously, I wore it in my SENIOR PICTURES!!! But, I never got rid of it. I had some sort of attachment to it, and now that they seem to be more popular, it is making its way back into the rotation.

This was taken at the end of the day. My skirt and belt looks messy at this point.

Skirt: Old Navy
Denim Shirt: GAP circa 1999
Cardigan: Kohls
Belt: Forever 21
Bracelet: Metropolitan Museum of Art NY
Tights: Hue
Socks: Hue
Boots: Entienne Aigner

Martha Stewart's Long Lost Cousin

2010-12-07T09:50:00.000-08:00

I read a lot of awesome blogs that are written by people that have the following sweet skills:

1) Great sense of style...every.stinking.day

2) Culinary expertise when it comes to crafting the best recipes ever

3) Ability to take an object like say, socks, and take a photo of said socks with a special angle and lighting where now the socks look all exciting and stuff

4) Home decorating suaveness (is that a word?). This area is a component that I am completely lacking. As we are totally in the midst of house hunting, I have no desire or clue to decorate the ~~shanty~~ bungalow we are living in currently. However, I do hope to decorate our future new house with inspiration from many of the design blogs I read as well as pages from Potter Barn. Duh.

5) Craftiness. Again, not an area that I am strong in. Never been good with being patient enough to construct, build, create things. Although, I really wish I could. I am impressed on end of the cool things some of you out there are able to create out of balls of twine, toilet paper holders and bobby pins. Okay, not exactly those items, but you get what I am saying. Having a toddler makes me really want to get more crafty. While I know my way around the sewing machine, sort of, I think it would be cool to take up sewing. Maybe aprons to start... But this would require me to get a sewing machine first...

Basically, after reading awesome blogs all the time I begin to feel like Martha Stewart's inferior long lost cousin Fran, from West Virginia. No offense to those in West Virginia. I am sure it is a lovely place.

To finish off this productive post, check out my new scarf! I really love it for the color, how soft it is and the fact that it is freezing around here.

In the Christmas Spirit

2010-12-04T17:10:00.000-08:00

I have the Holiday bug. I am loving the wintry weather, cozy nights and of course dressing the part! Hello, Fair Isle Sweaters! Today I had a casual work function (on a Saturday, ugh) but I wanted to look festive. So instead of donning my "I Love Santa" sweatshirt (I kid, I kid), I wore my always in style, red pea coat. Also, I finally found some great flat light brown riding boots.

Coat: Nordstroms
Scarf: Eddie Bauer
White Sweater: GAP
Legging Jeans: GAP
Boots: Etienne Aigner

Five Favorites Friday

2010-12-03T22:34:00.000-08:00

I just made that up. Go ahead and steal it. I am so freaking clever. Maybe I should of titled this post "Smart Ass Friday".
1) Favorite Ice Cream: Mint Chip from Baskin Robbins. The smaller bits of chocolate slivers are what seal the deal.

2) Favorite Sport: Baseball, although right now it's football. Tom Brady, even with that new shaggy mop of his? I'll take it.

3) Favorite Store: J.Crew. I wish there was one closer (well my bank account doesn't). Until then, I drool via the Internet.

4) Favorite 80's Song: Adult Education by Hall & Oates. There is no way I can pick just one, but this one is definitely one I have been listening to on repeat quite a lot lately.

5) Favorite Condiment: Mustard. Especially the bright yellow kind. That stuff is amazing on soft pretzels and hot dogs. I also like spicy mustard too.
Now that I have enriched everyone's minds, have a great weekend.

Bribery is a Good Thing....

2010-12-01T19:58:00.000-08:00

So what that I am using these for Potty Training. It's working... it's really working!

Don't Judge.

Baby, It's Cold Outside

2010-11-29T11:25:00.000-08:00

Folks, Thanksgiving is behind us. My ass is a bit fuller thanks to the load of carbs I demolished for four days straight. It was wonderful having a stretch of days off. I was able to clean, decorate the house to look like a Christmas Pottery Barn catalogue (well, attempted to) and got a nice start with my Christmas shopping. I said "f- the crowds! I take my my money online!". I finally ordered my holiday cards from Shutterfly after taking about two weeks to finally decide on a design. Now, I sit here second guessing the picture I chose. Ah well.

Aside from the lounging and visiting with family, Miss S took a nice tumble off the back of the couch while I was in another room. She followed that off by barfing all over the couch, not sure if it was the crab she had tasted for the first time, or the fall. Needless to say our couch cushions are still in disarray in the garage as they air out from the stench of puke. We might need to get them cleaned.... To top off the week, she took a nice header into the sidewalk yesterday evening as we gathered in the front yard to admire the lights that Hubbs so happily put up on the house, a la Clark W. Griswold. She had a nice pink scrape on her forehead this morning as she greeted her friends in preschool.

Oh... and it's been frigid. Well, frigid for the Bay Area. Here are some pics to prove my point.

Close to taking ski's out and trying some tricks.

This picture taken from my Blackberry Bold, really doesn't depict the amount of ice. Not frost, ICE.

When it's 28 degrees outside, I decide to wear a dress. Because nothing goes better than peanut butter and chocolate, like freezing weather and dresses.

Charcoal Cardigan: The LOFT
Silk Black & White Dress: Banana Republic
Tights: Hue
Faux Crocodile Black heels: Alfani
Necklace: J.Jill
Belt: Forever 21

Ten on Tuesday

2010-11-23T20:36:00.000-08:00

Got these questions from one of the new blogs I am reading, Roots & Rings.

1. What are your plans for the holidays? Do you travel at Thanksgiving? If you celebrate Christmas, do you travel then, too?
Both Hubbs' and my families are local. So we typically don't go anywhere. Sometimes I wish we actually had far off destinations that we would be visiting, relatives to travel across country to see. I like when the News shows the airports at Thanksgiving & Christmas with all of the travelers frantically trying to get to their loved ones. Reminds me of Love Actually.

2. How do you make the plans for the holiday? If you have a significant other, how do you decide which family to visit?
Having family close does make the Holidays tricky because its always a matter of trying to make everyone happy while spending equal time with all parties. We usually juggle a couple visits into one day which usually leads to me stressed out and and me mumbling at various times... "we need to go, Grandma and Grandpa are waiting, the prime rib is almost done at their house! Wait, one more cocktail. Did you get the gifts? Don't forget the artichoke dip, okay, another glass of Pinot won't hurt..."

3. Do you have your Thanksgiving meal at lunch or later in the day?
Who eats at Lunch? So I will be in bed at 3? If we are eating at my parents, we start at about 4-5. If it's at the Hubbs' side, we're not sitting down until at least 6:30 I prefer the 4-5 range so that I am passed out on the couch by 6:30. It prevents me from filling up on four pounds of brie and crackers and allows me to fully partake in true Thanksgiving gluttony.

4. Do you have a favorite Thanksgiving tradition?
I usually say I am excited to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade each year, but when I finally sit down to watch it I realize that I really don't prefer seeing floats with Soap Opera stars waving. I also like to scour the ads and map out my shopping plan of attack for Black Friday.

5. After a big meal do you lounge around or get up and take a walk?
I usually end up plopping my ass on the couch, but now that we have a little spunky toddler to chase I am able to get exercise in.

6. Do you shop on “Black Friday” or do you avoid it?
Depends on what is on my list. This year I plan on going out on Midnight before the craziness. We'll see if I actually do that. If I am not out of the house by the early morning, then I won't go out. I might just sit in and shop online instead.

7. When do you usually finish your Christmas shopping?
Probably about 2 weeks before. I really like to enjoy those last weekends before Christmas and not rush around. Plus it seems like we have more engagements so it gets hard to squeeze in shopping.

8. Do you and your significant other exchange gifts? Is there a budget?
We do exchange gifts. I usually point out exactly what I want to Hubbs: sparkles, cashmere, etc. He usually points out electronics or um... more electronics. We always set a budget so that neither of us is not surprised or feels like a moron for not throwing down enough for their gift.

9. When do you decorate for the holidays?
This weekend I will be decorating the house. However, we won't get our tree until the first weekend in December so that it is nice and fresh. I have already seen houses in our neighborhood with their lights up on their houses. Can you say Clark W. Griswold?

10. Do you go “all out” with the decor or do you keep it simple?
I would say I am go in between. Our house is typically a cross between a Pottery Barn catalogue depicting a nice mantel with fresh greenery and a Gingerbread house.

Winterizing

2010-11-22T09:22:00.000-08:00

I have been inspired by many blogs out there focusing on using clothing they wore through the spring and summer and working them into their fall/winter wardrobes. Today I decided to Winterize this cotton GAP skirt that I wore throughout the warmer months with wedges and flats and breezy tops.

A closer shot of my argyle socks. I like argyle.

What do you think? Am I pulling it off?
Blazer: Express
White Tee: GAP
Necklace: GAP
Skirt: GAP
Tights: Hue
Socks: GAP
Boots: Nine West
Belt: Alfani?

Conceal It

2010-11-18T09:32:00.000-08:00

In the last year I have realized the importance of spending a bit more sweet moola on certain beauty products. The latest item for me to switch from Drug Store to Department Store? Concealer. I did so with Benefit Confessions of a Concealaholic. I had been using Cover Girl or Revlon, etc. for my under eye area. But by lunch time my the dark shadows are back and I am not happy. I started researching and heard that Benefit had really good concealers, actually so many that I didn't know which one(s) to choose. I purchased this kit so that I could get an idea of what worked, what I really needed, etc.

So far I love the Erase Paste for my under eye region. I look awake all day, which is nice and maybe a bit shocking to my coworkers.

The other products are nice too, however, I know I will continue to purchase the Paste.

Take it Back Tuesday

2010-11-16T12:48:00.000-08:00

The other day I remembered back to a pair of shoes I purchased during one of my first visits to New York City. I had some time to kill by Rockefeller Center, and I wandered into the Nine West store. They were running some sort of "Buy One Get Second Pair 50%" deal. I quickly found one cute pair of black patent driving mocs, and for some reason I was drawn to another slightly different pair. Maybe it was being in the Fashion Capital of the World that made me go for them, but I did. They were white, patent leather, point toe shoes with KITTEN HEELS! Now separatetly, those are not bad, but when combined....not so good. However, I purchased them anyways, traveled back home and tried them on with some of my clothes and to my horror realized I looked like Cousin Eddie in National Lampoon's Vacation. Remember these bad boys?

Yep, I was pretty much wearing the same exact thing. I was too embarassed to even show Hubb's so I made a bee line to the nearest Nine West store and quickly returned them. I don't know what triggered that thought. Have you ever had horrible judment when making purchases? You get caught up in the moment and later wonder what the heck you were thinking?

Stylish reading

2010-11-14T21:16:00.000-08:00

I have been considering the Kindle, Reader, Nook, etc. until I saw that these existed. Now I am convinced that reading has never looked so good.

Happy Holidays Cards!

2010-11-10T19:58:00.000-08:00

I am pretty proud of myself. It is November 10th and we have already completed our family holiday pictures that will be showcased in our annual Holiday Cards. I decided this year I wanted to have plenty of time to mull over the designs so I could pick "THE PERFECT" card. This year I am going to be getting my cards from Shutterfly. Holiday cards really are that one chance to show your family's personality without being in the same room, and that is why I get so into them, and also why I got the photography taken care of so early this year. Shutterfly not only is great spot for cards, but also for photo books and calendars. Last year I made calendars for my parents and in-laws showcasing some of Miss S's cutest pics. They loved them and it is always fun to see them hung up on the wall at all of their houses. I definitely will be doing the same this year.

Shutterfly has so many great designs. Designs that are classic, vintage, contemporary and whimsical. How will I be able to pick out just one? However, it just so happens that I have narrowed my selections down to these three... can you help me pick one? Remember, I like classic and preppy things with a vintage edge. Got that?

Another cool thing about Shutterfly is this great promotion they are offering Bloggers right now. You can get 50 cards free! Check it out here. Now that is what I am talking about. We all know the lists of gifts you will be shopping for this holiday season, so get a little help from Shutterfly and get 50 free cards and better yet.... you know they will look great.

Why I Love this Time of Year

2010-11-08T19:36:00.000-08:00

Halloween kicks off my three month period of gluttony. What with the leftover candy at home and at the office, it is amazing I am not 400 lbs. heavier. Then we launch right into Miss S's birthday, followed by Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving leftovers, holiday parties, holiday cookie baking, Christmas and New Year's. I have to say though, so far I've been pretty good about not eating too much candy, so hopefully that parlays into the rest of the season. But besides the mashed potatoes and gravy, the artichoke dip, stuffed mushrooms, cheese balls, truffles, glasses of bubbly, fondue, prime rib and other treats, there are many reasons why I love this time of year.

1) I have a lot days off in a short period of time. From Thanksgiving to New Years I get a total of 3 weeks off (including weekend days) which is pretty frickin' awesome.
2) The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, A Charlie Brown Christmas
3) Uggs
4) Plaid Flannel Shirts
5) Hot Cider
6) Dean Martin Christmas classics
7) Hot cider
8) The smell of a fresh cut Costco Christmas tree, no plastic one in this house!
9) The smell of fires burning in chimneys
10) Brisk walks around the neighborhood
11) Need I even say the awesome colors on all of the leaves?
12) Love Actually
13) Pot Roast
14) Monday Night Football
15) Pea Coats
16) Online Shopping deals
17) Christmas lights
18) Holiday Cards
19) Peppermint Ice Cream
20) The red cups

Fall Fashion Week: Weekend Ware

2010-11-07T19:55:00.000-08:00

So I took Friday off which meant I wore sweats, etc. and not exactly worthy of pictures. On Saturday, we hosted Miss S's 2nd Birthday party for family and I forgot to take a picture of my outfit until about 8 that night when I was wrinkled, tired and tipsy. Here you are:

Dark Gray Cardigan: Ann Taylor LOFT

Silk Top: GAP

Skinny Cropped Black Jeans: GAP (my new favorite clothing item)

Silver Sequin Ballet Flats: American Eagle from TJ Maxx

Today I was lazy again due to gloomy and wet weather, but decided I needed to post something even if I was wearing comfy clothes. All we did today was lounge, go to In & Out Burger and run an errand at the mall but not in that order...

Navy Tee Shirt Dress: GAP

Charcoal Tights: Old Navy

Cream Cashmere Scarf: Charter Club

Boots: Uggs

Plaid Jacket: GAP

Fall Fashion Week: Black & White

2010-11-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

Keeping it simple again today in Black & White. On the agenda today: Meetings.

Black Blazer: Express
Black & White Striped Tee: GAP
Jeans: Paige
Faux Crocodile Black Heels: Alfani
Gold Bracelet: Some place cheesy
White Bracelet: Metropolitan Museum of Art, NY
Gold Earrings: Banana Republic
Scarf: GAP

Fall Fashion Week: Preppy Office

2010-11-03T10:00:00.000-07:00

So this Fall Fashion week isn't exactly going as planned. This is because the weather has turned Spring-like. Therefore, my plans for wearing tights went out the door. Also, my sweaters seem a bit too bulky for these 75 degree temps so I have had to wear layers. Today, I kept it simple. Because, that is what I do, when all else fails. If you need sunglasses because my legs are too white, I completely understand...

White Blouse: GAP Outlet

Dark Denim Pencil Skirt: Banana Republic

Belt: GAP

Tweed Blazer: GAP (we all know my love for Preppy Tweed Blazers)

Faux Crocodile Brown Pumps: Style & Co.

Necklace: Banana Republic

Fall Fashion Week: City Chic

2010-11-02T11:31:00.000-07:00

Okay, I named this post City Chic because a co-worker just called me that. In store for me today are back to back meetings followed by a work lunch, thus I needed to be comfortable.

Dark Blue/Purple Cardigan: Ann Taylor LOFT
Grey Tee: GAP
Black Skinny Cropped Jeans: GAP
Ballet Flats: GAP
Silver Belt: GAP
Hair: Crazy

Fall Fashion Week: All Greyed Out

2010-11-01T09:16:00.000-07:00

It's typical for me to get on the Fashion Week bandwagon about a week late. But, better late than never, right? I seem to be having some flash difficulties. I was using our small digital camera this morning and couldn't figure out how to turn the flash off so I have a huge glare in the mirror. As it's just me and the almost 2 year old in the morning, I have to rely on my awful self portrait skills rather than rely on Miss S to take pics that probably would be of my knees.

So here we are. All in grey today. I was in a bit of a hurry so I didn't accessorize much.

Wow, how awake do I look in that last shot? Must be to red wine consumed last night while trick or treating....Also, love the comb over. Not a good hair day.

Dark Gray Corduroy Boot Cut Pants: GAP
Striped Charcoal Top with Stitched Necklace: Ann Taylor LOFT
Gray Blazer: Banana Republic
Gray Suede Heels: Marc Fisher

P.S. That IS a huge bottle of LA Looks in the background. It's Hubbs', don't judge. I am working on graduating him to Pantene, or heck maybe even Herbal Essences...

A little bit Martha

2010-10-27T11:18:00.000-07:00

Each evening is a mad dash to get dinner on the table by 6. I have been churning out average meal after average meal night after night. Mind you, I am a good cook. Since I was in such a hurry I would forget to season the dishes that well or I would take things out of the oven prematurely. I know, all bad moves.

On Saturday I sat down with my cookbooks and went through and wrote down a bunch of recipes that I want to make because I usually will see a recipe some place and forget to make it and end up preparing something boring.

Then I picked three recipes from that list to make this week. I only picked three because I knew they would have leftovers. I wrote out my shopping list like I usually do to include things for the recipes, but I made sure to include EVERY ingredient for each recipe. I have found that if I say I will go back later in the week for an ingredient or two, I don't end up making that dish and resort to grilled cheese.

One of my recipes was a Vegetarian Minestrone. I bought some extra BPA free storage containers and made the soup on Sunday night after Miss S was in bed. I doubled the batch and put both containers in the freezer. Last night we ate the soup for dinner and we still have some for another weeknight in a the freezer.

Besides the soup I have made a good meal each night this week because I have had all of my ingredients ready to go. On Monday night I made Paula Deen's "Quick Pot Pie". Instead of cooking chicken and cutting them up, I ended up using two packages of Foster Farm's Chicken Breast Strips which made things that much quicker, and that chicken really is tasty, take it from me, someone who usually doesn't like chicken, unless it is fried.

So now the plan is that on each Sunday night I will cook one meal but double the batch and freeze one for a later time and eat the other that week. I know all of this is not rocket science. And I know probably majority of people are already doing this. It has just taken me awhile to realize that I don't like bland food.

Mom of the Fricking Year

2010-10-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

Since Miss S started walking a solid year ago, I must of acquired about 500 gray hairs. However, I hi-lite my hair so you would never know. She is a wild girl. We have had our share of falls, scrapes, scratches, nose dives, face plants, etc. Good thing she is so tough or else we would of have had endless days of tears. However, since she is so tough, it is sometimes hard to distinguish when she really does hurt herself. Case in point Sunday.

I was fixing dinner (pulled pork sandwiches to be exact) when I heard her run full speed into the living and fall. Hard. So hard that she immediately started screaming but then wound up so hard that she let out no noise for a couple seconds then started wailing again. I asked her where her "boo boo" was but she couldn't tell me. She calmed down in a few minutes and acted like nothing happened. About an hour later in the bath a red line started appearing over the bridge of her nose indicating that it was the thing that took the brunt of her fall. I also noticed a little swelling. I immediately began to worry because I broke my nose in junior high and since then have a bump on it. Here she had a perfect nose and I didn't want her nose to be funky like mine. I know, such a shallow thought.

Hubbs assured me she was fine and that the doctor wouldn't be able to do anything anyways. Fast forward the next day and it was more blue. Yesterday it was really blue. Today it is better. However, taking her out in public is pretty embarrassing. People eye us up suspiciously. But I am used to that, she always has something on her. Come to think of it, this post seems very familiar. Seems like I just wrote a similar one a couple months back when she busted her lip open (which did leave a scar). I tell ya, just when I thought she was mellowing down, she starts falling again!

I definitely do not feel like the Mom of the Year.

Five Things

2010-10-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am stealing this from Just Jiff and participating in the Five Things You Don't Know About Me. Because, I need some blog fodder as well, nothing is that exciting these days.

1) My thumbs are double jointed. I bust out this skill when I meet new people hoping to impress them but basically it typically just grosses them out.

2) I'm 5'4 and a half! This makes shopping for pants difficult. I am just about a half inch too tall for regular length pants, talls are too long so I have to get them hemmed or short length are just too short to wear with flats. Lately I have wearing more skirts and dresses.

3) I have recently discovered 6pm.com. A great online shopping site to score name brands way cheaper. And when I say "name brands" I mean good name brands. I have found my designer jeans there for 50% off. No joke. They have really cute and cheap shoes too.

4) Growing up we didn't have a lot of money, so I wore hand-me-downs from the really rich girl across the street. I think doing that until I was in high school and got a job at the GAP, made me now obsessed with always looking my best. You don't need to spend a crap load, your just need to be smart at the way you put outfits together. My motto at work is, "don't dress for the job you have, dress for the job you want". You never know when you have to have an impromptu meeting and those worn out jeans with the stretched out turtleneck, will definitely be something that people might be focusing on.

5) Lately I have been eating frozen pineapple chunks every night for dessert. I discovered this healthy treat at the beginning of summer. Between the three different grocery stores I shop at, Trader Joe's has the best kind. The chunks are smaller and the bag they are packaged in I believe prevents freezer burn. When I go shopping there, I load up on it. I will buy at least three bags at a time and will eat half a bag in one sitting.

Toddler Throwdown

2010-09-30T10:32:00.000-07:00

My toddler tends to pull her diaper off when she is in bed. She likes to get undressed then redress herself. Even if it means two legs are in one pant leg or her head doesn't make it through it's hole but her arms do. She likes to put each leg through a swim diaper and keep them on her ankles so they look like leg warmers, or leg flotation devices. She spreads out her blankets, random rugs, towels and napkins on the ground and then places her dolls there for them to "shhh....sleeping" or she will simply lie down for a quick 2 second nap. When she sees her Play Dough she says "I make!!!, I make!!!". She dances with great rythm to California Gurls. She calls Grover, Groger and sings the Caillou tune over and over. When people start singing Happy Birthday, she blurts out "Happy Birthday Cupcake!" because she automatically assumes cupcakes will soon arrive when we sing that song. She plays dress up with my high heels. And prances around in front of our full length mirror showing off her new assecories. She bursts into tantrum with no warning from the weather center, but with great flourish and drama. Somehow, she can quickly forget what upset her with any slight ounce of distraction. She is the sweetest thing and she is so right about her love for cupcakes. She is my cupcake and I am so happy that she is my girl.

Let's Catch Up....

2010-09-16T13:45:00.000-07:00

Folks, I am frickin’ tired. I am burnt from my ongoing lists of chores. House cleaning, cooking, driving, laundry, grocery shopping… I wish I could just outsource all of those to someone else, like celebrities, but that is not the reality.

The reality is that it is Mid September and we are headed into the busy season. It’s birthdays and holidays back to back so I refuse to be a slacker this year. I want to get gifts ahead of time instead of scrambling last minute. I want to bake goodies more regularily just because I feel good when I do that. Not necessarily my gut, but you know what I am saying.

Tonight I plan on heading to Target to load up on supplies for organizing my madness going into the holidays. I have bags of clothes that just need to be taken to Goodwill. While I am at it, I might as well clean out our pantry so I can make room for all of the baking ingredients. I also want to get some better Fall décor. Maybe a wreath for our front door to take me through Thanksgiving. Especially since our plants are about done for the summer, the front is looking boring.

What does everyone do with all of those crafts their kids make? Miss S has already been bringing home so many cute things and she isn’t even 2! Where do I store them? Some of them are really freaking cute where I think I want to put them in nice frames.

Maybe if I stop being tired, I might actually have things to talk about on this blog.

Flat Out

2010-09-01T13:18:00.000-07:00

I have found a new obsession. Flats. Now, don't get me wrong, I still love my pumps, particularly my BCBG peep toes, however, with the new skinny jean styles, flats couldn't look cuter with them. Adding more fuel to the fire is that it always seems like they are in the cuter colors and patterns than pumps. When I wear flats, I walk quicker (burning more calories), feel a bit more sturdy on my feet, and just have a spring to my step. With this new obsession, I definitely plan on working flats into more wardrobe so that they aren't just for weekends anymore, but for the week too. I have recently loaded up with a couple of pairs from Target to add to my slim inventory.

Here are my top picks for cutest and most versatile season after season.

Tory Burch Reva Metallic Flat- A bit out of my price range, but some day I will own a pair, dammit. I love the gold, but I also really like the black. Nothing says "chic" more than these. To me that gold icon at the toe is like the Burberry plaid. It makes a statement.

Report Lem- A great classic black flat with some bling. I've always been a sucker for some shoes with a little Bedazzle. I picture wearing these with cropped black pants or skirts and dresses with tights this Fall and Winter.

Kate Spade Abbie- Another pricey one, but do these make me giddy. Basically, I have a larger obsession with Kate Spade, but that is a whole other post. How cute would these be with a black dress?

J.Crew Driving Moc- I always love driving mocs. Maybe it's the preppy in me, but they just scream Fall and sweaters and scarves. All my favorites. Plus, you can't beat J.Crew's quality.

Ourtsource my Party!

2010-08-26T20:23:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I am having a 30th Birthday for Hubbs. It's a Fiesta theme, complete with margaritas, Modelo and some Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc, because nothing makes you think "It's Fiesta Time!" more than Sauv Blanc! Who is with me? Is it weird that I will be barely making anything for this party? My mom is bringing dessert, mother in law bringing salad, father in law bringing salad, I am picking up the rice/beans/carnitas for the taco bar I will be assembling from a local Mexican market/restaurant. I must be just really good at pawning off cooking. Or just lazy. Maybe both. Per my last post, it is already back into the mid 70's so we are looking at a nice mild birthday party.

Oh, and the Dollar Store is the place to get party utensils, paper plates, napkins and streamers! What a deal! I don't go into that store enough! I saw all kinds of wrapping paper, etc that I plan on loading up on at Christmas time. And the best part? It's a buck!

Speaking of Thursdays... we were, right? It's time for Real Housewives of DC, so Missy Marshmallow is out!

Summer, Or So It's Called....

2010-08-24T22:22:00.000-07:00

So apparently this thing we call Summer finally decided to show it's face to those of us in the Bay Area. After two months of October like weather with a ridge of cool air on top of us, the temps climbed to 108 today. That is not a typo, nor do I live in Dallas. It was THAT hot. Maybe even hotter, but when I was driving home at 5, that is the temperature the car was reading. But don't worry, temps will be back to their cool self of 72 degrees by Saturday.

It was just Saturday that I was wandering through the outlet mall loading Miss S up on fall clothes, shivering in my jeans and plaid shirt. It is been so chilly, Miss S has worn her summer dresses, maybe one time. Two times, max. Her sun suits? Forgetaboutit.

Because of the random weather this summer, I have been pining for fall clothes even more than normal. Here are a couple of the items on my wish list.

These Franco Sarto boots look perfect for weekends, running errands with Miss S in tow or more casual days at the office with skinny jeans tucked in.

I love a nice trench coat. The fact that this one from GAP is cropped, makes it even that much more chic and gives it a more casual spin.

I pretty much want everything from The Loft right now. And I plan on this cardigan being my staple. In the dark charcoal (shown) or the chocolate, mustard and plum, they will look ultra cute over a profesional blouse or a more casual flowy top either with skirts, dresses or jeans.

Nothing says "It's Fall" more than Tweed, especially in the blazer form. I am always a sucker for blazers, especially when tweed. In a tweed blazer I feel like I should be kicking the leaves down a path at Yale. I wonder if this one has elbow patches? This olive version from J. Crew will look cute with jeans and pencil skirts.

So that sums it up my shopping list for Fall.

P.S. In high school I wanted to be a meteorologist, hence my minor obsession with the local weather and extreme weather conditions in various parts of the country.

Happy Birthday Hubbs!

2010-08-18T22:18:00.000-07:00

Today is my main man's 30th birthday! I am so in love with this guy. Can't believe that I started dating him when he was 19! He is still the same dark Italian stud I met when I was a senior in high school. I don't give enough shout outs to the guy. He has been working like crazy lately and I am so proud of everything he is doing. He has accomplished so much already and I know he has yet to do so much more.

We had a nice date together at a local casual pizza spot tonight. The guy doesn't cook, but recently he has taken up the art of making Deep Dish Chicago style pizza, with homemade dough and everything. He seriously almost has it perfected. I know that one day he will open the restaurant he is scheming of now but until then I am completely enjoying this new cooking hobby. Especially since before, his specialties were fried eggs and grilled cheese.

Happy Birthday Hubbs. You are amazing.

Life in the Fast Lane

2010-08-16T10:37:00.000-07:00

Check out new daycares, pack, go on vacation for week with entire family, get back and go right into week long meeting where I presented and kicked ass, finalize new daycare situation, go to fair, wonder where the heck summer has gone, take Miss S to her first day of her new school today and finally feel like I am back in the swing of things.

This summer has been so cool. Seriously, I believe we only had one week of temperatures above 90 degrees! Each morning is foggy and gray and we have run the heater more than the AC!

Okay, so now that I am back in the thick of it, I look forward to following my blog friends more closely.

Keep On Truckin'

2010-07-22T19:57:00.000-07:00

So my second job this week has been finding a new daycare/preschool for Miss S. So stressful, I tell yah. Despite the stress, I am actually excited for this next chapter in her life. The options I have been looking at are with more kids her age. She is so active and smart that I want her to be constantly learning new things and not be bored. So I think things will be okay.

In other exciting news, Miss S has pee peed on the potty! The first was on Wednesday night and the second tonight! I am so excited, I really think we are on the right path!

Deep Thoughts

2010-07-19T20:16:00.000-07:00

Why are some weeks just easy and some weeks suck?

How come first thing on Monday I have to find out my daycare provider is picking up her family and moving out of state?

Why can't it be on a Friday so I can drink away my misery with Chardonnay?

Ok, I would just have a glass...

Why is it that I can't seem to find 2T sweatshirts anywhere? It's Nor Cal! We get fog in the a.m. and p.m. even in the summer, so can someone alert the stores that not everyone is hotter than Dallas?

Who decided that acid wash denim leggings were back in style because I sure as heck didn't!

Blue Steel a.k. Monday Evening Frustration

Elmo's Potty Time

2010-07-13T21:48:00.000-07:00

Half assed attempts at Potty Training have been taking place for about two months now. By half assed, I mean putting Miss S on the toilet right before bath time and more frequently during the day on the weekends. I also bought her "Elmo's Potty Time" DVD since really, Elmo is like her hero. So I figured as soon as she watched it the first time she would race to the toilet, pee, wipe and flush and we were trained! Not so much.

While she will sit on the toilet at night, she is more interested in playing with the toilet paper roll and tossing the paper into the toilet. If I take it away she practically tries to yank the toilet roll holder off the wall and loses focus. Needless to say, no actual pee pee on the potty yet.

Miss S has accomplished most milestones early. I guess I figured I wouldn't need to do much and she would just get it. Granted, since this process began, she has learned to announce when she is going pee pee, just not before she actually goes. My goal is to have her trained by the time she is 2, which is four months away. I know she can do it, I just need to know of a better strategy, and I guess be better at making it a habit as something to work on harder. I don't want force her, but I just know she can do it and I know I can do it.

Any tried and true suggestions? I haven't really done too much research on this topic yet, but as of now I realize that four months away is really right around the corner.

Book Worm

2010-07-09T12:42:00.001-07:00

So at the beginning of summer I said that I wanted to read four books. The first one up is The Girls from Ames.

I originally had seen this and passed over it because it is written by a guy and I figured what the heck does a guy know about girl friendships. Then I came upon it again and realized that the guy writing it actually interviewed the women for the book and that it was actually nonfiction. Plus the fact that both of my parents hail from the midwest (one from North Dakota, one from Iowa), I thought it would be interesting to tap into where they came from.

I started reading on Sunday and I am hooked. I thought I was hooked when I read The Help, but this one just is so good. Maybe because these women really are real. Each night this week, as soon as the dishes are done, the kitchen cleaned up and the house somewhat orderly, I plop down on the couch and stick my nose into the book.

The other night Hubbs was sitting next to me watching TV and made a funny comment. "I wish I had a good book to read, all I have is my stupid iPhone 4". Which on another note, he is obsessed with.

I'll be Around

2010-06-30T20:19:00.001-07:00

Snooze button, snooze button, snooze button, okay I'm up, get ready, Miss S ready, pack lunch(s), Elmo time, load up, forget something, try it again, daycare drop off, highway to the danger zone to work, early morning meetings, more meetings, plow through work, eat lunch at desk, projects, meetings, pack up, drive home listening to California Gurls, dinner, playtime, bathtime, snuggle time, bed time, me time, lazy time, bed time. Rinse and repeat.

That's where I have been. Oh, and at the pool on the weekends. You would never know because I am still white as hell.

The Summer List

2010-06-21T15:28:00.000-07:00

While I don’t get a summer break, I still want to accomplish some things this summer that I don’t see myself doing the rest of the year.

- Read 3 books, however it takes me so long to decide what to read. I need suggestions.

- Keep cut flowers on the dining table at all times

- Declutter closets (I think I have put that on my to list for the last several years)

- Cash in the change in glass canning 10 lb. jar on my dresser. Whatever I get from it will go towards a rainy day.

- Learn to cook one new recipe a week

- Get back into The 30 Day Shred DVD (because I just found it in my bedroom)

- Brown bag it to work 4 out of 5 days a week (I have to allow for one weekly splurge)

- Learn how to use our Nikon DSLR camera to its potential

- Not dress like a lazy ass on the weekends. This one, I am already turning around.

- Enroll Miss S in Mommy & Me Swim Classes

Jell-Uh-Oh!

2010-06-14T14:09:00.000-07:00

So my weekend was a warm and sunny. So warm that we had to turn on the AC, Miss S played in the sprinkler (so high class) and I went searching for summer dresses for the entire family minus except for Hubbs. It felt like the first real summer weekend we have had around here because our weather has been so crappy and January-like.

We decided we wanted to join a close by Health Club with a great pool and planned that yesterday would be a great day to test it out. Miss S was acting strange all morning, refusing to eat or drink even water and to the touch her head was warm. Not much of a temp, but as soon as 11:30 a.m. rolled around she was passed out for her nap, without even a bite of lunch.So she woke up her normal self and I offered her JELLO (I thought this was a genius idea) and blueberries, things I knew she would want to eat. She wolfed them down and we decided to pack up and head to the pool. I should of known she was still not feeling fine when she didn’t eat her goldfishies on the way over. This girl never turns down goldfishies.

Swimming was fine but when we got out she just sat on my lap and we lounged for a good 30 minutes. Which I totally loved because she never snuggles long like that. Notice my Happy Face!

I soon noticed her kind of grunting (or so I thought) until all of a sudden she spewed out bright red liquid Jello and blueberries, I am sure it was horrifying to see and so much for that genius idea. Turns out, super sweet things like that are not digested well. Who knew? We cleaned her up, got her home and into bed.

Needless to say, my lofty idea of BBQ-ing hamburgers, having corn on the cob and making potato salad went out the window and Hubbs and I ended up having Carl’s Jr. where I also learned they have changed up their recipe for French Fries, which I was completely disappointed about. But I was still able to shove them down.

Amazon Shout Out

2010-06-07T20:04:00.000-07:00

I posted here about two things I had purchased at Amazon. I read the cookbook and learned a quite deal about Olive Oil and antioxidents in Herbs. I have yet to make any recipes, but I plan to this week or next. Everything seems to look very yummy. I did pick up some fresh Basil today just to start using more fresh herbs rather than dried.

As far as Mommywood, I am still reading it. It is entertaining, however, not too complex of writing, but if you want a quick summer chic lit book, here it is.

Now on to my latest Amazon purchase...... wait for it......

Ta Da!

The Keurig B60 Special Edition Gourmet Single Cup Coffee Maker. It is AWESOME! Not only is it sooooo quick to set up (no more filling up a filter, spilling coffee grounds and pouring in the water). Also, no more coming out into the kitchen to find that coffee has overflowed out of the pot on to the counter and floors.
The coffee tastes really fresh and yummy. I am no coffee snob, but I do notice the difference between stale, bland and sour coffee and so far this sucker has not produced any of those. I am a smitten kitten. I truly believe this will change your morning routine has much as it has mine. I have easily shaved off 5 minutes of my a.m. scramble. I need all the help I need in the morning for this working mom.

What will be my Amazon purchase next week???

Busted!

2010-06-01T19:56:00.000-07:00

Miss S split open her bottom lip on Thursday morning. I was just barely into the door at work when I got the phone call from Daycare saying that she had tripped and fell and that she might need stitches. I heard her wails in the background and I knew it was serious because:

1) She is super tough and rarely carries on after she falls, and she falls hard ALL. THE. TIME
2) The word stitches. The thought of stitches on my little girl made me shiver and I immediately called hubbs to pick her up and headed over to the doctor's to meet her. I myself, received stitches to my head when I was a 5 and I still remember the pain. Not to mention the 40 or so to my forehead when I was 18 from a car accident. Stitches suck and are scary.

When I saw the lip I thought to myself there was no way she wasn't getting stitches. I pictured Hubbs and I holding down her flailing arms and legs as the doctor tried to administer the numbing shots. NO THANK YOU. I started tearing up at the thought when Hubbs told me to calm down and be strong for her.

Just then the doctor came in, inspected her and exclaimed "You are lucky! No stitches!". Apparently, since the cut was right on the top of her lip and not on her face, it would heal really quickly.

Unfortunately, every time I looked at her lip I got queasy. It looked like the frickin' Grand Canyon. And so the doctor noticed and told me I should sit down. Ummm.... so much for being strong.

So we hung out at home for the rest of the day. I tried not to look at her owie and I smothered her in kisses and hugs, and some Jello and ice cream.

Now it just looks like a grey blister right on her bottom lip, I still can't believe how quick it has healed. Still pretty yucky, but it seems to be healing nicely. The rest of the weekend was much less stress.

Although, Miss S managed to skin her knee and hand and take a couple other falls off the couch, etc. Good thing I hi-lite my hair or else I would be gray by the time I am 30!

I Must be Sucked In

2010-05-26T19:51:00.000-07:00

So you can tell what I have been up to when these are the two things I purchased at Amazon.

I love, love, love The Real Housewives of New Jersey for so many reasons. The food that Teresa (a housewife) makes always looks great so I figured I couldn't resist. Plus I saw this in Barnes & Noble over the weekend and flipped through it. I was really surprised that it looked so legit.

I also enjoy Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood, although they are not as guilty of a pleasure as The Housewives. I needed a quick read and heard her writing was pretty cute. I will review both books once I am done with them. On a side note, I don't watch that much reality t.v. I don't let myself get into American Idol, Dancing with the Stars or The Bachelor. I did when when the shows were new but now I stick to the hard stuff, like those above.

I did buy Corduroy for Miss S too.

You Spin Me Round....

2010-05-24T12:50:00.000-07:00

I took Miss S to JC Penney on Saturday to get her 18 month pics taken. The last time we had some taken they were done by a professional. They were FABULOUS but much more expensive than the ol' white back drop deal. So I figured I should alternate between fancy and cheap. Although after my experience on Saturday, I don't want to go the cheap route again. Honestly, I almost smacked the JCP photographer about 3 times for being a total BITCH to me. Won't ever go back there. Period. Oh, and one shot somewhat turned out. I think Miss S is like, half smiling.

I have continued to feel like garbage for the last week. After Miss S is in bed I just crash on the couch with NO energy. I just feel like I am spinning around and around. I finally made an appt. for the doctor tomorrow. Hubbs has no sympathy for me since I have neglected getting to the doctor as I would be totally agravated with him if he had done the same.

Energize This

2010-05-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

I have been running on limited energy lately. I’ve noticed being really tired whenever I do any sort of activity, it doesn’t have to be physical. I am kind of out of shape, I would like my ass to be a bit more taut, but overall, I think I look pretty good for relying on chasing my toddler around as my main source of exercise. I am trying to get back into pilates, which I really do enjoy.

I just never remember being this wiped consistently. What is really kind of strange is that I am not stressed either. I have been really good lately in not letting things get to me (except for my pre-Mother’s Day anger). I don’t know if I am anemic, dehydrated or what. Another thing that is going on concurrently to my lack of energy is headaches. Pretty much for the last two weeks I have had headaches every day. Not migraines, but just annoying, energy suckers. Those mofos.

I am thinking about trying to be better at doing my pilates DVD’s and drinking more water. I hate this feeling and I want to get my energy back.

18 Months

2010-05-07T11:03:00.001-07:00

Today you are 18 months old. I can not believe my little and spunky baby is now a year and a half! Where did the time go? You are such a wonderful and beautiful girl who never ceases to amaze me with the things you say and do.

You recently have started speaking in sentences; and will repeat commands to the dog that your dad and I bark out (no pun intended). You know when you have “pee-pee’d” in your diaper and I think you are only a few weeks away from potty training.

One of the most favorite things I like to do with you is read books. However, I prefer when you read them to me. I can’t really get what you might be saying but you deliver each sentence as though you are a conductor in front of an orchestra.

We dance together to Snow White. You throw your hands in the air and twirl during certain softer songs and I am really starting to see the Ballerina in you. During the “Work, Work, Work” song from Cinderella, you giggle when you hear the mice talking.

The fact that you are always on the go in a near sprint has caused many scrapes and bruises recently. The other day I counted five different “owies”, each of them you were never fazed when they occurred. You are so tough and make your playmates look like little wussies !

I cherish each and every moment I get to spend with you. I live for you and I love our little mommy-daughter connection. You are my girl.

Serenity Now!

2010-04-30T11:50:00.000-07:00

I seem to always get embroiled in anger whenever I plan family events. This past week both my family and hubbs' family have completely pissed me off regarding plans for Mother's Day. We are trying to combine both families together so that we don't have to jump around to different houses, however, trying to coordinate while making everyone happy never works. Everyone has do to things "their" way. Sometimes I think we need to just stick with separate family events. It is almost easier, despite having to drive to different locations. At least feelings aren't hurt and temper tantrums are fewer.

There have been so many moments lately where I literally have to take a step back, take a breather and move on because I will let myself get super fired up if I stew over it. Hubbs is really good about getting mad over something but then forgetting about it. Things just eat away at me until I explode. I am really trying to ask for "Serenity Now", put things into perspective and not give a shit. And then I pour myself a glass of Pinot Noir which helps too.

Pampered Paula

2010-04-29T17:29:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I used up a spa gift certificate and got an 80 minute pedicure. It was somewhat relaxing, but the chair was tilted back like a recliner and after awhile I started getting a headache so it ended up not being as relaxing as I had hoped. I think I need to just stick with the $18 pedicures at the place down the street. There I can get in and out quickly and they still give you great foot massages.

Since the weather is due to be gorgeous this weekend and there is no rain the in the forecast I have decided it is time to bust out my self tanner regimen. I use Neutrogena Build A Tan. I am so fair that I notice a difference INSTANTLY. It takes a week or so to get my technique down. I tend to get streaks on my (bulging) biceps for the first few days. Then my base gets dark enough that the streaks aren't as noticeable. The scent of self tanner is pretty funky, but for some reason I don't really mind it. It reminds me of warm weather.

I have been binging on popcorn for the past week after dinner and while I am sitting my ass on the couch as I watch Real Housewives of New York City. Popcorn is my FAVORITE snack. Hands down. I can eat it plain, buttered, salted, caramel, Kettle style, home style. Heck I even find myself eating the bright orange kind that has been sitting in one of those cheap 15 gallon tins with pictures of kittens that usually are in the break room during the holidays. If it's popcorn, I like it. Disclaimer: As much as I love popcorn, I will not add that disgusting liquid butter at the movie theaters. I like it straight up.

Miss S has become quite the little helper. She likes to help feed Lucy, put her clothes away in her hamper and do the laundry with me and hubbs. It is quite cute and I love watching her get so excited.

I am Angry, Hear Me Roar

2010-04-26T09:36:00.001-07:00

Yesterday the weather was gorgeous. It reached way over 80 degrees so to celebrate my mom and I took Miss S to the main park in our town. Once we got into the playground area a little girl came running up to Miss S, and I quickly realized that it was her friend from daycare who we will call “Hillary”. Hillary is just under 2 and quite bigger than Sonya. Miss S was so excited to see Hillary at the playground. I greeted her mom and introduced myself. She acted kind of aloof and then referred to Miss S by the wrong name which kind of put me off. We sat there watching the girls say hello when all of a sudden Hillary grabs a huge handful of damp sand and through it full force right into Sonya’s face. Seriously, Hillary was not even a foot away when she did this.

I sat there shocked. In fact we all sat there shocked. I then noticed that Sonya had clumps of sand in her mouth and in her eye. So I swooped in and picked her up and headed towards the stroller to clean her up. Meanwhile, Hillary’s mom didn’t do anything. She told Hillary to “Apologize to Sonya”. Like she even knew how to do that. She didn’t even discipline her or anything. Miss S is really tough and only cries from pain only rarely. I am not sure that since Hillary’s mom saw that Miss S wasn’t crying that she didn’t think it was a big deal. Either way, I was so incredible pissed that Hillary was not punished. The worst part of the incident was seeing Sonya’s face right after she took the sand to it. She looked at Hillary and you could tell her feelings were really hurt.
It breaks my heart thinking about that face. I stewed over it all day yesterday. My mom and I could not believe Hillary’s mom’s lack of punishment. I know she might have been embarrassed, but if Sonya did it to Hillary I would be of been checking to see if Hillary was okay, and would of then marched my daughter up to the car and left because Hillary knew EXACTLY what she was doing.

So this morning I told daycare what happened. Unfortunately, the main lady wasn’t in the room at that moment but I still told the helper and I will tell the main lady this afternoon when I pick her up. And if I see Hillary’s mom in passing, I don’t plan on giving her the time of day. Maybe that is immature. But this is about my daughter and she pissed me off. No one puts sand in my baby’s face.

The Naughty Corner

2010-04-15T11:12:00.000-07:00

The Terrible Two’s are fast approaching; however, I just can’t see myself putting Miss S in the “terrible” category, ever. Sure, at 17 months old, she displays moments of anger and frustration, but even when she launches into a mini-fit, I can’t take it too seriously. When she has a mini tantrum (because they really are mini compared to others I have seen), she wails, plops herself on the ground and her face gets bright red. Then I distract her and we move on. I think she is just so cute when she has these, I know, I must have a serious face, but it’s so hard.

Last week at Daycare, she was put in the naughty corner for pushing a boy. I was mortified, especially since this came right when she has displaying some hitting. Just to me, before bed time. At first she thought it was funny when I held her arm down as she tried to lift it and thought it was a game, so she didn’t get it. Now I tell her to “Be Gentle” and then she lightly brushes my face with my hand and says “Shen Tall”. No more hitting for her, hopefully.
While I know there will be more days of her in the naughty corner, I just keep on hoping she won’t be one of those kids in Target having a meltdown. I was when I was her age. My mom is convinced I will have my pay back. Guess that’s part of being a parent.

Tardy Spring Fashion: Day 5

2010-04-09T21:42:00.000-07:00

Today I stayed home. I took a "Personal" day. It was a long week, I worked late at night a couple nights in a row, felt I might be getting a bug so I loafed with Miss S. She is also trying to fight off a cold. So here is the ol' outfit. Not too crazy. Just my typical running around town outfit.

Tee: GAP
Jeans: 7 for all Mankind
Scarf: Old Navy
Flats: Madden Girl

Tardy Fashion Week: Day 4

2010-04-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

Big meeting with head Marketing chiefs today, needed to look cute without looking like I tried too hard. Crappy pictures for a fourth day in a row.

Floral blouse: GAP

Cardigan: GAP

Pants: Banana Republic

Pumps: Marc Fisher

Belt: GAP

Necklace: GAP

Bracelet: Metropolitan Museum of Art Gift Shop

Tardy Spring Fashion Week: Day 3

2010-04-08T09:12:00.001-07:00

So I went to post these last night however, my camera's battery (Nikon D60) was dead so I am a bit behind. I will post today's pics tonight.

Yesterday's outfit. Parden my super white legs. Ahh well. Still haven't gotten around to self tanner yet.

Sweater: Old Navy

Blouse: GAP Outlet

Pencil Skirt: Banana Republic Outlet

Pumps: BCBG

Belt: Forever 21

Bracelet: Macy's

Necklace: Etsy

Hair: Crappy

Tardy Spring Fashion Week: Day 2

2010-04-06T19:46:00.001-07:00

Again, Hubbs was already gone by the time I was up this a.m. so I had to rely on my own Annie Leibovitz photo skills. After I took these pics I realized I liked the way the cardigan looked unbuttoned so I wore it like that instead.

Cardigan: Ann Taylor LOFT

Blue Top: Banana Republic

Denim Trousers: Express

Necklace: Tiffany & Co.

Suede Pumps: Marc Fisher

Tardy Fashion Week Day 1

2010-04-05T22:19:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are my crappy pictures I took of myself this morning. Please excuse our lame bathroom, but it was the only spot with a full length mirror. It was nasty and cold out today, hence the wavy hair action I went with. Today's outfit is typical for a Monday in the office. On Mondays I either go super cute or super professional. I guess today, I felt professional.

Sweater: GAP

Navy-Black Wide Leg Trousers: GAP

White top: GAP Outlet

Pumps: Nine West

Necklace: Macys

I like the GAP.

Monday, Monday

2010-04-05T11:09:00.000-07:00

So, I took pictures of my outfit today to kick off my Tardy Spring Fashion Week. However, since hubbs had already left for work and I don’t have the cool self picture taking capabilities of a Mac, I had to rely on the self portrait in front of a full length mirror. The images suck, and I still need to upload them this evening. But dammnit, they will be up. I promise.

At work on Friday, I burned my hand on scalding hot water from my instant soup. At one point I contemplated going home (it was that painful). I pictured large blisters that were going to appear. I Googled “How long does it take for blisters to appear on burns”. I couldn’t focus. I wandered aimlessly through the halls looking for someone to take pity on me. I texted Hubbs and got no response. By a couple hours later, the area was still red, but no blisters. And the next morning, no blisters. WTF? I am not saying I want a blister, but when I contemplate leaving work due to the pain on my HAND, you know it must be bad. All I am asking is for some proof, cause I rarely leave work for pain or illness. I am one of those stubborn jackasses.

I have a stiff neck today. Nothing makes me crankier than a stiff neck. Maybe it’s the years of physical therapy and chiropractors (from a bad car accident when I was 18) that make me sensitive to anything back or neck related. Or it could be the 8 weeks of excruciating sciatica when I was pregnant. I think I slept on it wrong. But damn, am I pissed today.

We had a lovely Easter weekend. Despite the weather being absolutely disgusting yesterday, it was still a great time. My mom prepared an fantastic dinner, Miss S looked like such a doll in her Easter dress with her cousins. I ate way too many chips and dip before dinner and proceeded to engorge myself on mashed potato casserole and ham, and maybe some chocolate Easter eggs too.

Chatty Kathy

2010-04-02T08:48:00.000-07:00

Miss S is such a little sponge. She is in the faze of repeating every little item we say. So far my favorite things she says are “Ningo” for “Flamingo”. The door bell goes “Ning Nong”. The doggy goes “Row row”. Yellow is “Well Wow”.

The other morning, as we were running around trying to get out the door, I told her we needed to get her shoes on as she went running into her room. A couple moments later, she came running out with her pink Converse, carrying them by their laces. And hear I didn’t even think she was paying attention!

I love looking at everyone’s Spring Fashion Week outfits. And I am completely behind the ball, but I might have my own Tardy Spring Fashion week next week. We’ll see if I get my act together.

I am ready for a vacation. I am exhausted and burned out from work. I wish I could have my own Spring Break. It is moments like this this I think about becoming a teacher.

Easter Ideas

2010-03-25T11:20:00.000-07:00

Aight, folks. I need some ideas on what to put in an Easter basket for a toddler. Growing up my Easter baskets were chalk full of goodies, mainly of the chocolate form, but usually I would get one legit toy, namely a doll. The toy would usually be hidden a la an Easter egg hunt. One year, my mom hid a Cabbage Patch kid in the oven. It wasn't on, of course. I remember bartering with my older brother to exhange his Reese's egg for my Peeps. It never seemed to work out in my favor. The Reese's eggs were prized possessions in my household and it would usualy be the first thing I consumed.

So now that I have a wee one to make holidays magical for as they were for me, I need some ideas. Miss S is too little to eat Whoppers, Jelly Beans, etc, so what kind of sweet treats are good? I was also going to toss in some new barrettes, maybe a bathing suit (although the reappearance of our wintry weather brings no indication that Spring will be back anytime soon, thus swimming in a pool is a bit far out).

As far as the Easter bunny is concerned, there will be no visits to see him this year. Each sighting so far at the mall has brought looks of terror and panic that I have had to beeline into a Disney store just for solice.

Word.

Spring Cleaning

2010-03-24T10:57:00.001-07:00

Not that it officially Spring around these parts, I have decided to rid every last closet of unnecessary items. I have held on to too much stuff through the years with the thought that I would some day find that I need an oblong table cloth for a rectangle table, or need a pair of slacks I haven’t worn in three years but that I got on Clearance at Express and were a good deal dammit!, or the 478 dishtowels that have pasta stains all over them that I continue to store.

I think I will start in my closet first. I am finding that my work style has kind of changed through the years. At the early part of my career I wore collared shirts and sweater vests all the time, thinking that is what professional women wore. Since having Sonya, I think my style has been kicked up a notch primarily in an effort to make sure I still look fresh even though I am now a mom. So anyways, I will be tossing out a lot of collared shirts, cheap tops from Old Navy and slacks from Express that I just loath all of a sudden making my room for breezy blouses, my blazer & cardigan collection and skirts.

Then I will move on to the linen closets, Hubbs’ closet and finally our office closet. This past weekend I pulled out all of Miss S’s clothes that are too snug or too short and put them in storage. She has a little stash of Spring clothes going. I can’t believe she is moving into 24 months clothes. I think that half the reason she doesn’t have many warm weather clothes is because I have not wanted to move up from 18 to 24 months. She just is getting to be such a big girl!

Ode to the Irish

2010-03-17T17:39:00.000-07:00

I am not Irish. I am German and Norwegion, however, I still wear green on St. Patty's Day. I dress my daughter in green on St. Patty's Day. I eat corned beef and cabbage and about 537 potato pancakes on St. Patty's Day. I like traditions, dammit, whether they really are relevant to me or not. Maybe I like traditions because basically they always involve wearing special items and consuming large quantities of food. Who really cares anyways.

I am about to embark on Budget Crackdown 2010. Not too thrilled about that one. Why? Well, I like to shop. I like Starbucks and I like spending too much on groceries each week. So basically, I just don't like the constraints of a budget. I figure, I work my arse off all week so that I can have a little fun now and then. But, I am back to brown bagging for awhile and maybe whittle down visits to the GAP, but come one I need to buy Spring clothes for not only myself but an adorable little girl whose little tee shirts from winter are so snug it is rediculous, but incredibly cute. Oh, and I am sure the hubbs needs some essential tee-shirts too.

And, to prove my non-existent point, it was 77 degrees today. Spring really is right around the corner. Why can't spring clothes grow on trees?

What's Goin' On PART DEUX

2010-03-11T09:18:00.000-08:00

1) The weather is starting to hint that Spring might be just around the corner. Weekends are starting to be consumed with more trips to the park.
2) I can’t believe Easter is merely weeks away. I so need to get Miss S’s dress still and get her pictures taken.
3) I ordered some Girl Scout Cookies from a co-worker’s kid and quickly realized that I really didn’t need three boxes, so I gave one to my parents. I know super exciting shit.
4) I am really looking forward to warm weather. Typically I am a winter girl since I am fair and like being amongst the pale crowd, but now that I have a kiddo, all I can think about are long lazy days of summer, taking walks after dinner while it’s light out and Mommy & Me swim classes and BBQ-ing.
5) Miss S is getting her “Eye teeth” in on the top and bottom. They are causing her some pain but she still is not as cranky as when she got 5 teeth in all at once.
6) Miss S is such a book lover. I so get a kick out of her reading her stories out loud, gibberish after gibberish. It is so cute, I want to eat her up.
7) I am wearing a pencil skirt today without tights. Let me tell you my legs are white! Bring on the self tanner!
That’s all I got in me.

The Mean Aunt

2010-03-08T15:19:00.000-08:00

On Saturday I brought Miss S over to my brother and sister in law’s house where my mom was watching their four year old and 17 month old. We decided to take the three girls to the park, with the little ones in the wagon and Leah riding her big wheel. I started getting stressed over the thought that my mom and I were outnumbered with three kids. I was especially paranoid about Leah riding ahead into the street. Even though my mom insisted that she knew to stop and wait at each corner (and she did) I couldn’t stop the agitation. It got worse at the park when both Miss S and Little Ava tried to scale the double slide at the same time while I was watching them. I just couldn’t handle two kids to myself while my mom was across the park with Leah.

It was barely 15 minutes in and I couldn’t handle it anymore. I told my mom “let’s go!”. Her being the calm one (and also a elementary teacher and the best grandma ever) tried mellowing me out so that the kids could play longer. It didn’t work. I was stressed. Stressed that one kid might fall off the slide while the other darted towards the street. At one point I even yelled at my niece Leah for screaming to get our attention. “Leah, stop screaming, you are FOUR!” Nice aunt I am.
I know I am confident while with Miss S, but the prospect of watching one more or two more, makes me sweat. I don’t know why I got so ridden with anxiety. Can’t figure it out. All I know is that I am sure my niece Leah reported back to her parents that I am the mean one.

By the time we got back to the house I needed a cocktail. But it was only 4.

Moments of Bliss

2010-03-02T21:23:00.000-08:00

This was my weekend. And it was blissful.

A Storm is a Brewin'

2010-02-26T12:39:00.000-08:00

Hubbs is away tonight. My mom is coming over for a slumber party. Probably get our shop on (what we do best), purchase clothes for spring and then have to wait another month at least before I get to show them off due to a long winter. Oh yeah, and we miiiiigggghhhtttt even mix in some Fresh Choice. Because, no place pops off more than Fresh Choice on a Friday night. Kids eat free, and boy are they eatin....for free.

And it's stormin' outside. My boots are getting some serious wear this season. And I wore my hair curly twice this week just how Linz did last week. Curly hair seems to hold up better during moments of torrential downpours.

What's Happenin' Hot Stuff

2010-02-23T10:41:00.000-08:00

So when I go out of town, it usually takes me a long time to get caught back up when I return. I fell behind in my housework, grocery shopping, blog reading, and laundry and of course work. So although we have been back for over a week now, I just now am getting my bearings.

While I have been getting back on track…

1) Lucy has manifested chronic gas. We ran out of her fancy dog food one night and had to get her some Iams. So she has been gassing the house up. It has been so stinky I swear I am waking up at night because of it.
2) I received two new pairs of heels for work. I swear I went through a two year stretch where I didn’t buy any new work shoes. Needless to say this latest purchase was a score and both are cute.
3) I started reading Nanny Returns. It’s okay. Simple reading. Just like the first one.
4) Watched Inglorious Busterds and hated it.
5) My daughter refuses to eat chicken. No matter if I fry it, dice it, sauté it, drench it in cheese , she tastes it and spits it out quicker than I can sneeze. I am a poet!
6) I actually went on a three mile walk when we got a weekend of spring time weather. It was the most I have exercised in a long time. Well, if you don’t count chasing around a toddler which has kept my metabolism in check.
7) I have learned that CSI:Miami airs in Spanish right before I go to sleep. I was flipping the channels last night before dozing off and landed on the show thinking it was the real thing only to learn that it was in Spanish. I couldn’t stop laughing.
8) Brushing Miss S’s teeth has become a complete struggle. How do I get to brush them? She simply clamps her jaws together, turns her head the opposite way and grunts “no”! I need suggestions!