Hellooo Out There!!

Hey! Hello! How the time does fly?

I suppose I took an un-intended hiatus from blogging! I wish I could say it was for exciting news but not really. Just life getting in the way of blogging.

I've been busy at work and busy finishing up my degree. We were out of town for a few weekends there, and I caught some sort of bug, which put me out for a week or so.

Anyhoo, I'll be paying more attention here soon.

Hope your enjoying your weekend. Back with more soon!

True Heroes

September 11, 2001

Never Forget

Fall Football Season

Have you seen the official College Collection by Vineyard Vines?? I would really, really, really love the Clemson tote! If I had extra money to throw around, this would be at the top of my list!

Adorable.

Err, perhaps I spoke too soon. I'm no fair-weather fan and will always be behind the Tigers - but geeezzzz louisseeee!!

Nonetheless, we had a good Labor Day weekend. We attended an outdoor concert by a bluegrass band, watched the game with beer and BBQ nachos and just hung out. Took some long walks with the dog, tried to clean up the house and did some thesis/school work. Oh, we also made a day trip to see the in-laws and go swimming. Yesterday, we went to the beach and the weather was fantastic - just a little bit cool, bright sunny skies - I love me a good beach day (and a 24 oz Miller Chill!) ha. I do like my beer light with lime flavoring, so sue me! (Although I do drink the Sam Adam's Summer Ale my husband prefers).

I don't care who you're voting for (ok, I do, but no politics at work or at blogging - in my opinion!) but I have to say, I feel like we are ALL news junkies. I'm addicted to watching the news in the morning and at night..catching up with online articles - I can't quit!

Other than that we are watching out for old Hanna (and Ike and whoever) and hoping we can 'weather the storm'. My brother just recently moved down to SC, about 45 minutes from us, so I'm hoping to have him over for dinner/hang out - it's been a long time since we've done it and I know he's been in a rough patch in his life, so I want to hang out with him.

That's about it peeps - how was your Labor Day??

GOOOO TIGERS!!


Have a fabulous Labor Day weekend!

Annoying:
Going to the grocery store, making a special trip for and forgetting Splenda
Having to buy 1 cent stamps
Wearing glasses in the rain/having them fog up from extreme heat and humidity

Good things:

Coming home to a bunch of updated blogs to read
Finding new songs to listen: Sharon Jones!
A good cup of coffee and a rainy day


PS. This blogger's plan to spend $50/week on groceries for the 6 people in her family CERTAINLY made me think about my weekly grocery list:

http://grocerycartchallenge.blogspot.com/

Get Thee to Old Nave!

So I made the trek to Old Navy yesterday and it did NOT disappoint me in the least (Target, although, wasn't that great - I perused through and didn't see too much!)


I picked up this navy shirtdress I've been eyeing but wanted to try on - it's so cute and I think a great little staple for fall!
Super similar to this Lilly dress I wanted (I think from the spring collection)
Fun colored chinos for $20! Yes, please. I got this green color.

I've been wanting a fab little jacket for the fall and I got this style but in a fantastic pink color. I love it! Can't wait to wear it!



Old Navy has great piece of jewelry right now and their scarves are adorable. This one is actually more navy and pink in person, so I went went with my uber preppy theme and picked it up.
Also, they had a variety of long sleeve, rugby striped tees in navy/white, navy/green, pink/navy. I only got the pink and navy and wish I'd gotten more because they were only $10 apiece. Just a great staple for cooler days.

I got everything here for just over $100. All of the colors (pink, green, navy) are staples in my wardrobe, I won't be able to wear a few of the things quite yet because it is still warm out. They also had adorable deals on cable knit cardigans but I just can't get into sweaters in this August heat. But DEFINITELY head to Old Navy if you need preppy items.

By the way...who else is excited for Lilly Pulitzer fragrance?! I can't wait to smell and purchase! How fun.

Recap!

I fell as though life has been a tad bit overwhelming lately. I've changed my work schedule around to teach a few classes, just to find out that they may not be happening (and of course, I've already calculated that as a part of my income!). Just aggravating! I've been stressed trying to work all day and get a thesis done at night.

And I had a meltdown the other morning when I was trying to figure out what to wear when my favorite pink shorts from last summer were just too tight! And one of my favorite skirts was getting tighter. YARGH! I was not pleasant to be around that day. I've been "working out" - walking the dog, jogging randomly and doing to the gym MAYBE twice a week but now I want to be back in full force. There is a 5k in October I want to run and that is one of my goals. In fact, I went to one of my first SPIN classes this morning. Holy cow! My legs are freaking tired, but it felt really good to get a badass workout in this morning.

Speaking of getting healthy, I've re-discovered an old friend of mine: Brown Rice. He may sound and look boring but oh my, is he healthy and cheap!

I've been making batches of it - put some salsa, black beans and shredded low-fat mozzarella on it and you've got a super healthy yum meal. See, I need a meal to HOLD. If I eat lunch at 12 and I'm hungry by 2, it is more likely I will find candy or something to tide me over. I really try to eat meals of substance, so this doesn't happen. Also, I've been pre-cutting/bagging celery and carrots, so in the morning I can throw them in our lunches without too much fuss.

Another thing I've been doing is buying red leaf lettuce fresh (my fave) and just chopping it when I get home and saving it in Ziploc bags so when I'm tired, there is no excuse to have a salad with dinner.

Although, I'm giving myself a few "bad" meals each week and I had the best fried shrimp Po-Boy the other day, complete with tartar sauce. Oh yeahhhh.

I worked this weekend but left early to attend a wedding of my husband's co-worker Saturday evening. He only knew the bride a few others from work but we had a great time despite not knowing anyone, in fact, it was kind of nice. The reception was at a beautiful golf course on the marsh and the food was great. The drinks were strong and I'll just say that I just got a tad more than tipsy. Champagne toasts plus strong vodka drinks made for a very hungover Sunday. It's been a long time since I've had that much too drink and I'll think it will be awhile again because I was worthless yesterday!

Other than that, we've(I think!) decided not to buy a house this year, it's just not in the cards right now. Which is fine, but we are on a hunt for a better rental - one that we can live in without having annoying "rock/punk band emo neighbors" and basically isn't just a cheap rental. We want to live somewhere where we will be comfortable for awhile.

Thanks for your comments on the Lands End shoes - my work isn't that dressy (not too casual though) but comfortable shoes are numero uno requirement. I think I could get away with those, chinos and a cute top.

And per the (somewhat) unanimous annoyance with J.Crew these days, I'm going to go check out Old Navy this week. I've seen a few of their cute things on the website and blogs, I just want to try them on - nothing like a cheaper, cuter version, in my book. Plus, I just can't afford the J.Crew prices.

How was your weekend?

Be Honest

What do you think about Land's End new "terrain Mary Janes"?



I need shoes for work that I can run around in all day and be comfortable. I'm really never sitting, so comfort is the MAIN requirement. I just don't know......

Productivity. A word I'm attempting to bring back into my vocabulary. I'm completely useless after a day of work and I finally dealt with the idea of getting up early to work.

Coffee. Check.
Up at 6:15. Check.
Working on thesis. Check.

Feeling a lot better about life and organization. Check!

Our week was rolling along nicely, albeit with intensely HOT weather. Until...
A nasty storm blew through on Thursday afternoon. Power went out at work and I got to leave early, and I was excited thinking of the head start I would get on dinner/cleaning up. And then I saw the cones and police tape around our block. Oh hell, lighting had struck our neighbor's tree, caught on fire, and then brought down the power lines with it. (Ralph, the pup, was super traumatized from this because it happened right outside his window :( poor guy, we gave him extra treats!)

We were officially sans power. And I didn't stress it because I knew the whole town was out and figured someone was on the case. So we made cool cocktails and chatted about the South before A/C. And we walked the dog and scouted the neighborhood. And grilled out burgers, all while making jokes about camping.

And then it was bedtime. With no A/C or fans. Well, needless to say we didn't get any sleep that night and really appreciated the workers getting the power right back on when our alarm went off at 6:00 am. Argh, what a fiasco! I was just glad we got it back that day.


We'd been doing a "diet" of sorts - just refraining from alcohol, caffeine and junk food during the week. The lack of caffeine had been well, tiring. Whew, it was hard for me not to dive into the Coke Zero in the afternoons. Overall, I felt a lot better and was making more time for better workouts.
May still have a coffee on Monday mornings but I've been making an effort with snacking on my new fave:

Almonds and craisins - yum, salty and sweet.

Also! One night a made a few servings of brown rice, so in the morning I would put salsa, shredded mozzarella and leftover grilled chicken together for a healthy and yummy lunch.

We went out Friday for our 1 year anniversary for a nice dinner. We've been dying to go to Bateaux and it didn't disappoint in the least. We enjoyed a fabulous bottle of wine, dinner and dessert. All fresh, all local and we had a fantastic view of the water/marsh. It was perfect!

The rest of the weekend we drove up to Charleston for a rugby game and to hang out downtown. Charleston is just buzzing right now and I always seem to find a new favorite store every time I go. I'll try to find the link of one store but I found an antique where I could have seriously bought ALL items. Such neat antiques. AND they are getting a LV store. Watch out now! We stopped at a roadside stand on the way up and had the BEST sweet tea and homeade pimento cheese. And boiled peanuts. These kinds of places make me smile.

Today was our real anniversary date and we didn't do anything too special. We took a scenic route home, went for a jog, relaxed and I made spaghetti for dinner. Good times.

I promise I'll get around to better updating. Later gators.

I had a fun/busy week last week. Mostly because I took my day off to help a friend look for wedding dresses in Charleson. Oh, so much fun! It was nice to be on the other side (although I saw several eyelet/linen FABULOUS dresses that were just screaming my name) and we had a really good time looking. She just wanted to get a better clue of what she was looking for and we hit up the designer boutiques to try out those fabulous gowns. Then, we caught up over a lovely lunch (curried chicken salad with Craisins - I gotta make it, so good.) and it was a nice time. We are both glad to be close enough to hang out and I think we are getting closer again because we're in the same place in life (somewhat) while our other friends are having just, different paths in life.

Then, I took another half day because I just needed it - to de-frazzle my brain. With my teaching and working this semester, I have a delicate balance of schedules and really needed to get those confirmed up.

Why is it that these kinds of things (like confirming schedules, meetings) stresses me out? I make all of these things a priority and it doesn't feel like I get the same in return. Does that make sense? I'm just adjusting to having a to-do list (that never ends) BEFORE and After work.


On that note!
Weekend was good but busy. Friday included a little James Bond, a little Nutella and a whole lotta red wine!

Saturday, I worked but we went out for beer and BBQ nachos (soooo bad and soooo good) and Sunday we hung out at the beach and just tooled around. We did make it to church and I cleaned up some and did a few loads of laundry, other than that it was a lazy day.

Ermmm, that's it for now. We are headed to Charleston again, this weekend and also preparing to celebrate our one year anniversary - yay!! I've got to find a place for the sweet pup to board while we are gone, finish up anniversary presents/reservations annnnd figure out how my transcripts got lost in a shuffle even though I confirmed a month ago they were faxed (argh, these are the things in life that get under my skin).

That's it for now! Have a good week.

Summer Things I'm Loving

Just a few things I've been enjoying lately!

Beach reading: Why of course, Jane Green's latest novel, Beach House! First, I love the cover of a book. I so judge a book by it's cover (ha!) in bookstores and libraries.

Anyway, I really like Jane Green and this is just a "plow through sitting on the beach, relaxing vacation" read. A huge list of characters, set in Nantucket and there are quite a few plot twists (not the most realistic, but hey! who cares). The descriptions of Nantucket made me want to summer there, now. The characters were interesting and she brings in the whole discussion of developing a beach community.

A good, solid fun read!

I'll be honest, when I started reading Jennifer Weiner's latest, I didn't like the characters. Told from a mother's perspective (remember Good in Bed? Weiner follows the life of her main character in this novel) and her teenage daughter's perspective. I remembered Good in Bed and was curious to see how the plot would play out. Then, I remember how it was to be 13 and seriously annoyed with my mother and life and how everything was confusing. And I feel in love with the characters. By the end, I had cried and laughed. If you're in the mood for a mother/daughter REALISTIC relationship novel - check this out! I really enjoyed it.



It's hard to see here but Neutrogena is making Grapefruit face wash and body wash. YUM! I love the face wash and it is perfect for summer and invigorating in the morning.



Loving this little adorable jacket from Ann Taylor Loft. It's a little too warm for jackets right now, but I'm definitely ordering this - great color and I love the structure of it - just what I've been looking for the fall!

Eyebobs.com! I love their funky selection of eyeglasses - I think these are my favorites. And I just like saying eyebobs.

Oh goodness, Haagen Dazs Raspberry Sorbet. Like heaven on a hot summer day - the flavors and textures are perfect, I could eat a pint for dinner alone!

Yes. I'm here!

I wish I had a valid/exciting reason for the lack of posts, but really? I don't. Life just keeps rolling right along (too fast for my taste) and I realized it's been a few weeks since I've posted. Nothing new here, working, doing the daily grind, spending time with the husband and dog and that's about it!

New Look? You like?! I was inspired by this Ladybug's new look (and attempted it, but was reminded of my computer literacy and impatience with anything computer related). I even fooled around with Wordpress but also realized I was in way over my head. Anyway! I love the new look, it's about time!

I've enjoyed my retail job right now but have been recently hired to teach a few classes in fall - woohoo! I'm super excited/nervous. It's what I've taught before, so I actually have a teensy bit of experience under my belt. It's not exactly a high paying job (at all) but I think it is a "foot in the door job" and will hopefully be a longer term place for me. I'll still be working at my small business and teaching, aka balancing two different trays and I hope I can do it without too many "STRESSED out" melt-downs. My husband is also considering a back to school/graduate degree - not soon, but perhaps in the next few years, which I fully support. So, we've been discussing future plans and such.

Also, our obsession as of late, buying a house. We really would love to buy right now (and just know we could get a better deal in our area, in this market). We've been looking, obsessing and crunching numbers (and of course, I 've fallen in love with/imagined new furniture in/raising families in/ no less than several homes!) but realistically, we are going to wait until the winter/early spring to see what happens then. Things are so crazy now and WE are the only ones putting pressure on ourselves to buy, so. That's that. (and I obsessively check Zillow.com to see what's sold in our neighborhood) Hee.

Other than that, we'd really love to find a house, settle into jobs we are comfortable with because we DO want to start a family (not tommorrow, not next month -maybe in a year or so!). I mean, according to our ideal plan (because who knows what curveball life will throw). I love reading all you "Mamas/Mamas to be" bloggers - and I love hearing all of the stories and details. I know we will be there sooner than later, but at the same time, I'm really enjoying where we are in life - just enjoying our lives together.

Whew, now that that's done, my latest thoughts:

1. J.Crew "and I quote"NEW AND UPDATED WEBSITE. My arse! Ok for about 2 weeks, I couldn't even pull up J.Crew, then it was all "NULL/$" and "No sizes" - ARGGGHHH. Then, my hub said try viewing it through Internet Explorer (instead of Firefox, which I use) - which helped, I got to see the sizes of the clothing for sale but it was sooooo slow.

AND then, when I was alllllll set to order the Lisa dress (that fabulous knit dress you've ALL blogged about and I decided I couldn't live without for 29.99 plus 20%), the checkout page was all $&%^&%^& weird not loading. For 20 minutes, which caused me to be late to work, and BOOM I lost the dress. But according to yall, I probably would have been waiting until August to get it anyway. Anyway, J.Crew - I'm annoyed. You are a bad, horrible boyfriend because I know I'll be back (already lusting over your fall lines) but you've ditched me quite a few times lately. Not good.

2. Speaking of shopping (which, in my world is almost nil these days), I've picked up a few cheap finds -
*Seven's for $30 at TJMAXX - Score (although, I have this odd feeling they aren't REAL Sevens, but I honestly don't care because they were soooo comfortable when I tried them on)
*I hit up the J.Crew outlet for a super sale (and wishing I could've bought more) but I picked up 2 of those adorable "Frenchie nonsensical saying" graphic tees for like $6.00 each. And a little rope/nautical key fob for $4.00. Good Lord, I love a deal!
*Randomly thought I would try out the Generic "Cosmetic/Perfume" outlet for kicks - ermm, jack pot! Bobbie Brown, MAC, Prescriptives and Clinique - all at outlet prices. Great deals, and I was superstoked - I'm still basically stuck on my favorites ( I don't stray with make-up and try new things, I like what I like) but it was great to supplement with brand names!

3. Still watching, So You Think You Can Dance (although 2 hours is sometimes to much for my attention span - Tivo please!) and um, another new fave, From G's to Gents with Fonzworth Bentley. MTV, honestly, I love this show (and Fonzworth's classy outfits and his Cosby sweater). I do. Thanks for making my summer viewing HILARIOUS! :)

**Sidenote. I will consistently flip the channels and say "ohmygodthis is so annoying, let's watch - DON"T TURN IT!!" or "oh geeezz this dude drivesmeCRAZYpleasedon't turn, I want to watch!!". Half the time, I'm watching because I'm annoyed or fascinated- am I the only one??

4. Beating the Heat, Tickled Pink style, Volume 1. Ohmy. Are we in the dog days of summer or what? This evening found husband shirtless , myself in tanktop and short shorts 8 years old and only relegated to the house(classy, redneck! Thanks for your applause) drinking beer/cool white wine and eating sorbet on the back porch. One must have a Tervis Tumbler to go and cool drink this time of year.

We've also hit up a few family parties/dinners in the past few weeks. I love a good old fashioned get together and hanging out with people. I think our friends/family thing we are odd, only because we are younger, but we really enjoy hanging out with everyone. I made a 7layer Mexican dip that got rave reviews and also got a FAB/YUM recipe for a Greek-style layer dip. Only social etiquette held hubby and myself from just eating the entire thing. So good!

Ok. I think that's it! I'm reading/catching up and will be blogging more regularly. Also, I will be better on commenting - loving hearing all the summer fun from you bloggers!

This week I've got some meetings, lots of errands to do and a little visit to Charleston to help a friend look at wedding dresses (I'm so pumped!). ALSO! I have a 1st year wedding anniversary to prepare for and enjoy! I've got a couple of neat presents picked out(for him, not me!) Trying to organize our fall and get our weekend excursions prepared/planned - looking busy - again!

Keep cool!

New Look!

Updating and getting a new look!

Trying to update the blogroll (didn't realize it would be deleted!) , so if you want to me on it, please let me know!!

Back with a better update later!

The 4th & Summer

We had a low-key 4th weekend here - a few cocktails (yay for fresh mint mojitos and juleps), grilling out, fireworks and a whole lot of humid weather! I bought 2 of those pre-made pizza crusts (so easy) and Friday night sauteed fresh shrimp and had a garlic/shrimp/basil pizza. Oh yum! Then Sunday, I made pesto and layered it with a few chopped tomatoes and mozz - again yum. I love being able to just throw on some toppings, bake and dinner is prepared!

Onto fun summer reading & tv-watching!

I read "Savannah Breeze" a few weeks ago and loved it, and I was excited to read her latest. The basic premise is a contest between two Food Network wannabe cooks, Southern style. I loved her descriptions of Southern cooking and the places. The relationships were cute. Just an overall fun read!
Ok, short story here. When Emily Giffin's first book, "Something Borrowed" came out, myself, my husband (then boyfriend), his sister and her friend were ALL riding together (in my car) to the Cape. And 18hr/2 day trip. God bless his heart (looking back now) for driving us through New Jersey and New York City (where we were all screaming at him and the traffic half the time). Anyway, sister thought it would be a great idea to read outloud from Giffin's book. Well, we all LOVED it. (Except for patient boyfriend, he would just get annoyed with the characters). I thought she articulated relationships and got inside the character's head. At the end of that trip, by the way, Husband decreed no mention of Sex and the City, cute or shopping in the car.

All that to say, this book does it again. And, I won't spoil it, but I was surprised by the ending, in a good way. She does a fantastic job of relating marriage and changing/learning who you become. Check plus, in my book!



Shoe Addicts is just a good old beach read - cute, funny and realistic characters. They have a great female relationship and you want to rally for each of them. Easy, fun read. Take it to the beach!
Summer Viewing. People, I have gotten hooked on QUITE a few shows this summer.

Speaking of - Bachelorette - did anyone guess she would pick Jesse???? I totally did not, but I guess opposites attract?? What did you think?

Next Food Network Star - I love cooking, love the food network and I love watching this show (I was addicted to it last summer - along with Top Chef!) My favorite front runner now is, crap, I can't think of her name but Katie Holmes Bob girl. I love her style and I've spotted her wearing a few J.Crew things!

Ok, this is my new, complete tv trash show - Tori and Dean. I can't help it! I like them! I feel for them and I think their baby is cute! (can't condone how they got together, leaving their marriages and all) But I feel like they are in the zone of semi-normal!



I'm also watching:

So You Think You Can Dance

and I CANNOT wait for Real Housewives of ATL and the new Project Runway.

Well, there you have my intellectual stimulation for the summer!

Have a good one!

Sooooo

I don't enjoy posting once a week - but I'm busy! Here we are again, sooooo here are my thoughts and things!

We had a fabulous weekend - my mom came in town, and I had taken a half day on Friday so we had the whole weekend to catch up. Well, Friday we ran home to wait for the cable guy and ended up talking for the 2 hours it took him to fix up our cable lines. Anyhoo, Friday night, we took a long extended "cocktail walk" around our neighborhood and moms was super excited and happy for us and our new place.

Later, we hit up a local cafe for dinner. It was empty for a Friday but we didn't mind because we got the place to ourselves and got to enjoy the guitar player and his Clapton jams. I had a yummmmmm salad with a honey mustard vinagrette, grilled mahi-mahi and crumbled hush puppies. And a few chilled glasses of pinot grigio. I thought I was off the "white wine" wagon because I've been drinking so much red wine, but a chilled white wine in the heat of summer is fabulous!

Saturday, we all got up and visited with some relatives who are hysterical and fixed us ham biscuits for breakfast. Then, we took another long walk and drove out to the beach for the afternoon. Where hubby and I played in the waves. Yes, I still love to get out there and dive under the waves - so much fun. T

hen, P grilled steaks and we feasted on steak, salad and french bread. We hit the bed earlyish both nights because we'd been running around all day. Sunday was church and outlet time. But of course, we stopped at "Backyard Burgers" for a energizing lunch beforehand. I haven't been to the outlets in a loonnnngggg time and I was pumped.

However - sidenote - I think outlet denotes true "clearance" or deal. I'm kinda annoyed at the stores that just produce a different line with slightly cheaper clothes instead of leaving with "holy crap, I can't believe I got that for $5.00. Like the Orvis outlet, where we had to DIG to find sizes and look our way through the leftover monogrammed items. Where we picked up an Adorable doggie bed for Ralph (red with black labs on it) and he LOVES it - it's cute.

Anyway. That being said, I picked up a cute black eyelet skirt at Banana Republic with a cranberry top. We also found the Clarks outlet, which had great prices and GREAT selection. I used to shudder at the thought of wearing Clarks (or the like) but I really think the brand has come a long way in creating more "hip" shoes. And, I've discovered working on my feet all day REQUIRES comfortable shoes. No ways around that.


So, great weekend, picked up a couple new things (including a new navy/green horse Polo) and had summery meals with good conversations.

I had an extra day off for the holiday this week, and thus, today was spent catching up on weekend chores and laundry. However, I scooted around town and peeked into our Lilly store (have you seen the chino skirt with embroidered TOTES - ugh, freakin adore it. If I had a hundred bucks to throw down, I'd do that now!)

But, I really need to order new make-up and probably new make-up brushes - so there goes the shopping budget! I may try out some of the "Bare Escentuals" Bare Minerals things - any favorites out there?

Speaking of shopping, I love when I "re-discover" a store. I haven't been to a K-Mart in yearrrrssssss and Steinmart in a really long time. Well, color me Martha Stewart happy but I was LOVING all of her stuff in K-Mart. How cute! K-mart's aren't as well known as my favorite "classy" Target but Martha's home gear was classic and cute. I have neither the room or money to be decorated our already stuffed home, but when we get a house - sign me up! I scooted around Steinmart too and found several cute tops and dresses. Items that can go either way - like your older, elegant aunt would wear to a party or (as I would hopefully do) dress up a funky little jacket with jeans, sandals and hip jewelry. Shopping is truly therapy for me. I am always more relaxed after perusing a store (whether it be K-Mart or Lilly).

And I also treated myself to a manicure, pedicure and eyebrow wax. Oh! What a difference it makes.


Vera Bradley. Some people lurrrvvve it. Some people hate it. I like it (enough for the totes and travel items, sometimes as a purse) but I also love my Longchamp and enjoy a sophisticated leather bag instead. In fact, I'm working where they sell it and some days, I can't look at it without my head hurting. I hear some people come in and DISS the hell out of that "quilted" crap (rude! We sell it! Thanks!) and others FREAK out if they find out their pattern's retiring. And then there are the ones like myself, who collect what we like.

I love this new pattern, Puccini - in the clutch wallet. It's a little funky, a little different and doesn't scream Vera. Perfect for keeping in your purse or taking out for a night!


I've decided to "go with" Cambridge (navy/green) as my pattern for my travel stuff (at least that could/should match) Actually, I really like this one and plan on getting the duffels, tote and cosmetic bags (and maybe garment bag for Christmas). I can see it monogrammed and sporting this with all of my pink/green/navy preppy gear.




PS. If you like cereal and want to that Kashi health assurance while eating a bowl of this Captain Cruch like goodness, then Honey Sunshine is your new favorite. Yum, is it good (and all without that junk food guilt!)

Calling all Crockpot recipes!

Since I'm working full-time and I can't keep up with the "oh I'm tired, you wanna make dinner - no, do you? No, will it be pizza, cereal or sandwiches?" routine, I'm pulling the old Crockpot out.

And thus readers, any favorite slow cooker recipes??
Easy, and perhaps somewhat healthy? I've got a bag of frozen chicken and hopes for a warm meal when I get home from work!


PS. So You Think You Can Dance?
I think I'm loving it (and so does hub, although he would NEVER admit it) My favorite tonight - the couple who dance to Leona Lewis's "Bleeding Love".

Not surprisingly, one of my favorite songs right now. :)

Bachelorette...

DO you watch DeAnna and company?

I've only been watching for a few weeks but I totally DID NOT expect her to let Graham go...??

What's going on? He was the "one", I thought for sure - now, I just don't know!

Who's your Bachelorette pick?

I think I contracted some kind of head cold this weekend, just enough to make me feel like absolute crud but not enough that I felt it was ok to call off work. Blargh. So, I just called in some early nights Friday and Saturday but I feel a bit better now. I'm like a turtle when I'm sick, I just want to hide in my shell and retreat from the world. Oh well, I caught up on my reading and resting this weekend. We also watched "Life is Beautiful" with Roberto Benini - beautiful movie, very poignant and touching.

I've also been catching up on my summer reads:


This is an older one, "The Other Woman," by Jane Green. I love this author, I feel like she always pinpoints the feelings, conversations or thoughts people have about relationships - the kind of things you don't even want to tell your best friend. Anyway, I liked her depictions of relationships, including the "other woman," the mother in law! Eekk, passive aggressive MIL relationships. Gotta love those, eh?

This Sophie Kinsella? I wasn't so excited about, after I put it down. Fun, but give me another Shopaholic over this, any day!


I've got a few other "Target" beach reads on my list - thanks to my library hold list - I'll keep ya updated. I need to find a book club now...you know a book is good when you want to sit down and keep on discussing the characters!

Although, I really need to be working on my final thesis. Argghh, I haven't finished it and I just need to DO. IT. NOW. We were busy moving, and now working, I'll tell ya, by the time I've worked all day, fixed dinner, washed dishes and had a glass of wine and put my feet up - I don't want to work on it. I hate excuses and I realllllly hate procrastination, so I hope I get a kick of motivation soooooon.

Typical Sunday here though, I slept in and made a shrimp and cheese omelette with fresh basil. We bought a couple pounds of shrimp for the weekend and they've lasted us for quite a few meals. We've been having those "snacky" type meals. The kind where you just snack on a little something here and there and end up with a bowl of cereal - the best kinds of meals in my opinion. Last night, it was boiled shrimp and chips with 7 Layer dip. The other week we ate pita, hummus and pimento cheese with cornbread crackers for dinner. Tonight, it was leftover dip and I tossed up a salad with the last bit up shrimp. Easy and great for summer heat!

We also attended a family reunion for a bit (my mom: tell everyone I said hello and DON"T EAT THE POTATO SALAD! - reverberations of my childhood), where we caught up with people we knew, awkwardly introduced ourselves to those we didn't and Ate the damn potato salad. Ha! We did hit up the Target (an hour's drive - so what a treat!), but no Whim clearance (all gone) and I talked myself out of the clothes that I definitely didn't need. Although, Mr. P found a couple nice linen/fishing type shirts. A Wendy's Frosty and Sunday afternoon was complete.

Everyone's Doin it...

And so shall I!

What were you doing 10 years ago?
Hmm, Sophomore year of high school - emerging from the totally awkward stage of teenage years yet still workin that teen angst, poring over J.Crew catalogs (no - not the website!!), practicing driving all my friends around, talking with my friends on the phone, being flippant to my parents, playing high school soccer and swimming - I was an athlete that year, wondering why I didn't have a totally awesome boyfriend, listening to Counting Crows and Dave Matthews Band and figuring out how to follow DMB for a summer!

What are 5 things on your to do list for today?
Call the insurance company
Get our recycling bin
Run to the store for dog food
Get all the bills organized
Pick up my check

Gee whiz, that doesn't sound fun. I'll also add that today will include a sunset walk to the beach with hubby and dog!

What snacks do you enjoy?
Hummus and pita/carrots, chips and salsa, almonds, one of those grilled chicken wraps from McDonald's, a string cheese and an apple - I'll snack on any kind of "dip", really!


What places have you lived?
New York City - Greenwich Village, Virginia, South Carolina - upstate and lowcountry, Indiana

What 5 things would you do if you were a billionaire?
-Buy a house/big piece of property (with cottages for all my friends and family to stay!)
- Pay off our and my parent's debts
- Go on a fabulous trip to Ireland, England, Tuscany, Greece and Croatia (all places that are on my list) without a worry about budget
- Take my mom and I on a shopping spree/spa week...hell, fortnight!
- Buy my man the boat, the car he wants

After all that, donate to church, agricultural research, and all of the other causes I'd love to donate to...!

Spanish Moss & Sweet Tea Vodka

Life pretty much revolves around work, walking the dog, fixing dinner, hanging out and figuring out a budget for getting out of debt and getting a house of some kind. It's HOT HOT HOT and I don't mind sweating (in gym clothes that is...any sort of outfit for the public, notsomuch) b/c I equate it with losing weight.

We finally had a looooonnggg quenching rain this weekend and we sat out on on the porch, having a cocktail, watching the rain and wondering why Spanish moss turns green when it rains. Speaking of Cocktails - my new absolute favorite drink - Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka (straight from the low-country, Charleston area) is extremely, dangerously good. Hub brought it home and I thought I wouldn't like it, but it's not 'sicky' sweet but good sweet, like add a lemon or mix with pink lemonade and it's refreshing happy hour time. Ooooh. I could have one now, it is sooooooooo good.

Focusing on working out and not obsessing about it, just dammit, going to the gym every other day. And you know what? It feels great. I enjoy working out for the energy and self-esteem boost. And attempting to eat salads (most days) for lunch, fixing a normal dinner and cutting out junk-food. Simple, easy things that don't bother me enough that I"m fixated on my work-out/eating schedule. Although....I picked up some pimento cheese and Townhouse's new "Cornbread" crackers - what a yummy snack, super yummy!


We spent the weekend "fixing" up our place (as much as renters can) but hub put a lot of work into the yard and our little backyard. After the rain, our place looks great. I SUPER cleaned. I'd neglected our home for awhile and thing is - small spaces and clutter do not mix!! God, do I love the feeling of a clean, serene home with fresh laundry and clean sheets. It makes me sleep better or something.

We also had dinner with good friends we hadn't seen in forever, one who had recently gotten engaged and was so happy (of course because she got a nice big ROCK). Think what you may, I'm generally a happy, contented, "I'm blessed person" but I do get flashes of envy when I see my friends sporting rocks. I mean, I do, I'm sorry and then I feel guilty for even having those feelings. Because I LOVE my husband and our relationship, I want to say ours is worth that toooooo dammit!! Sorry for that, but what's a blog good for, if not getting those things out?

Back to better things, here's a family I love. Chris O'Donnell - my celeb crush in high school and middle school. I really wanted to marry him. Look at him and his adorably preppy family.




I've ordered a few things lately. Namely, the crab tote from LLBean (monogrammed and it's adorable), summer basics like white cardigan, white jeans from AnnTaylor Loft (taking advantage of those fab deals) and this Knit dress from J.Crew. LOVE. If I weren't on spending frivolous budget, I would definitely buy it in every color. Dress it up or down with a tank top.

Ummm, I think that's it for now!

Am I the only person who will go to CVS for ONE item (nail polish), leave $25 dollars poorer, received an insane amount of CVS coupons, promise to use them and never remember a darn one??

And to the builder of our adobe - whoever thought it was a good idea to permanently install a full length mirror opposite the toilet - was wrong and an idiot. No one, should ever have to face themselves while being, as they say, indisposed.

Hubby said he's ready to nest, the manly way = Lowe's. We took a trip there last night (not without a trip to Sonic for a grilled cheese and cherry limeade b/c my blood sugar was low and when it is? I'm a grumpy shopping partner) for a new grill, picnic table, makings for an herb garden (pot) and other various items that were "needed." I kid, but seriously, I can only take Lowe's up for a certain amount of time, otherwise, I'm completely booorrrrreeed. We've been using our backyard and tonight we had our first official grill out complete with baked beans, home fries and grilled asparagus (consensus, we decided we really just don't LIKE asparagus). Oh, and fresh peaches over vanilla ice cream for dessert. Nummmmm. And we planted our herbs - sweet basil, lemon basil, rosemary, sage and greek oregano. Oh, does it smell heavenly!

Ordered the knit slub dress from J.Crew in navy and can't wait to see it and wear it. But can we talk about a place I love, Ann Taylor Loft. Particularly because the prices are so great and they offer REAL deals. Like ones I can take advantage on and say, dayumm, I saved a good chunk of money. Granted, they send me an email EVERY single day, but I can really use them. Some of their clothes are "ehhh" and others, are basics I wear a lot. Holla, ATLoft!

I love keeping up with all you bloggers. I know we all express this thought periodically, but I feel like I know you and love hearing about the babies, engagements, exciting news and what you ate for dinner yesterday every day! Cheers!

Later Gators

Good Weekend, well half of it. I had to work yesterday and took Thursday off to run around getting a bajillion errands done. We had to open up a storage shed so we got some of the last few things into it because we didn't have time otherwise. Ordered a pizza Friday night, just been kind of eating leftovers and cleaning up around the house.

Sooo apparently a tad boring then ;)

I did make Savannah red rice this week and added fresh shrimp...it was oh. so. good. YUM! Received a Lilly P Ebay find in the mail this week, it is cute! It's the patchwork print from about 2 or 3 years ago...and a leeetle snug, so joining the gym and pumping some iron is the goal for this week!

Oh! and I finished "Savannah Breeze" - what a great summer read, I was into it and couldn't put it down.


Work is good, I have some other things floating around for the fall (in addition to my job now), which I'll post about later but it's really exciting for me! I'm on my feet all day at my current job and after I struggled through the first week, I HAD to run to TJMaxx to see if I could find any comfortable shoes. I picked up a pair of "Born" sandals and oh my, like comfy little feet cushions, they are! I'm in the market for another pair now.



Soooo. the reason we had drama I mentioned earlier was because of a certain sibling, (not mine!) of ours who is closer to age 30 and a female. We'll say X for now. So, my husband's sister, X, calls up one day and says hey my boyfriend is in town, can he come by and get your washer/dryer?

**Background info, X has, on many occasions, "not spoken to us" because of us doing horrible things to her, like moving out of state or not calling her to ask her questions about her week. And still, cannot get over the fact that we are married. Honestly, just really jealous and it hurts hubby and me all the time b/c we are consistently nice and half the time we get a cold shoulder and/or "I'm too busy to visit". Just completely ridiculous behavior. The kind you wish you could just ignore, but it is family. AND, when we moved out of state (which offended her and hurt her feelings - which was really nice b/c it was a hard move for us and we could have used all the support we needed) Hubby's parents gave us some furniture they wanted to pass along (bed frame, recliner etc) and a washer/dryer. A perfectly nice w&d that was sitting in a storage shed. Mind you, we never asked for it, but they said go ahead and take it and we thought that was a great way to avoid having to buy a brand new set. Well, that upset X. She had "called it". Whatever, like many many many times before, we just apologized and rolled along. Now, our temporary abode (like for a few more months temp) has a washer/dryer upstairs, so we decided to store our w&d for when we buy a house. **

Back to the call, hubby says, "well umm, X, your bf is welcome to borrow the w&d for a few months, but we do want to keep it." And basically gets a rude response as to how that's unfair, she wanted it and she's going to call their parents. Very mature right? Then, he basically gets yelled at for telling her that yeah, they can borrow it but they w&d are OURS. And then gets a call from the parents, saying he should apologize to her. He calls and gets cold shoulder. Because she's mad at us. FOR 3 WEEKS won't answer the phone. I mean seriously!

This probably sounds like rambling thing that's NOT A BIG DEAL (because it's not) but X decided to make it her own drama. Re-mother-freaking-diculous. I can't tell you how many times people (including us) have bent over backwards because they made HER mad. I really just don't understand how immature and selfish people are! Really!

Whew, had to vent here because I just can't stand when people try to play little games. Dude, live your life! And I could tell many more instances but (as church reminded me this morning - sermon on family and forgiveness), I musn't stoop to that level. Forgiveness. Working. On. It.
:)

Ok, back to a low-key Sunday evening and thanking God for air conditioning because this heat? Is hardcore!!

Have a nice week!

I'm pretty picky about morning talk shows: being able to watch my favorites, being particular about which ones I watch and who gives the best news OR entertainment (I'd like to watch news programs for news and entertainment for celebs).
And while you may or may not agree :), my favorites were/are Morning Joe on MSNBC for politics, Regis and Kelly for grumpy banter and The View for hearing their arguments on hot topics (although, sometimes I can only take so much of them). Anyhoo, reason being, we only have CBS's morning show and for some reason, I can't stand it. And yet I continue to watch it. Why do I always do the "OMG, this guy is so annoying - let's watch!!" I end up watching more shows because they ARE annoying to me. Anyway, what are your faves?

NERD ALERT: Oh, and can I give a shout-out to my public library? While I'd love to drop a dime at Borders (and believe me, I could!), I just can't - so back to the place of my childhood summers - the good old Library. Because I'm just getting into the swing of holding books (which I've done before, only academically but why not for Sophie Kinsella's latest novel??!!) and interlibrary loaning for books on my Amazon list I'm never going to order but want to read? Love it. Thank you public library.

I need new make-up! I only am really going to have time to run to the drugstore to fill in my basics so readers

- What are your favorite drugstore cosmetic/hair product purchases? Anything tried and true that you love (or hate)?

One of my favorites is (can't find pic) Pantene's High Humidity hair spray. I don't usually use hair spray but this stuff works great when the frizz is on high alert and it smells great!

I hate sounding repetitive but I'm here! Busy as a Tickled Pink B! Busy on the weekends and during the week and I'm trying to blog more but alas...here we are with the "once a week, list of updates."

Not much going on...we had a productive weekend. Got up Saturday, hardcore cleaned and finished unpacking boxes. We decided to get a storage shed for a few reasons, one being that our bed frame DOES not fit up the stairs (which was a hysterical episode). We also hit up the farmer's market for some fresh veggies and boiled peanuts. Boiled peanuts = happiness. Where a lady gave me a very snooty look and asked in a very tense voice "Is YOUR DOG OKAY??" Why yes, he's just fine sitting next to me, excitedly looking around. I mean, I understand getting nervous around other people's dogs in public, but seriously? Our dog has the most, "hey, I'm a goofy, young excited doggie face". Really? No menace and no need for snoot. Harumph.

Hosted the in-laws for a night (and avoided a touchy subject involved family members, fighting between siblings and a washer and dryer - no joke, thats a WHOLE new post for a WHOLE different day. All I can say is, it honestly amazes me how selfish and inconsiderate people can be in this world). However, we had a lovely dinner on the water and I enjoyed several DAMN good crabcakes and wine. Sunday was church and an invitation to a neighborhood fiesta and boat ride. We love meeting new people and hanging out but lately, we are the young couple who don't have kids in the midst of families with 2 or 3 kids. And we don't care at alllll, but it seems that everyone loves to make a point about how we don't have kids. Yeah, we know! We are young and looking down that path sooner rather than later. Anyhoooo...no plans but working and getting our backyard summer grilling spot together.

Reading "Savannah Blues" by Mary Kay Andrews

Listening to singer Estelle. Do you need a new workout or new good music?? This chick is great and has Kanye, John Legend oh her album. She's great with a different, funky sound!

Memorial Day and more

1. Working full time is great and I am by no means complaining but dayummm, if my day ends at 5:30, I have hard time getting everything (by that I mean bills, laundry, errands etc. ) done. I don't mind working a Saturday every once in awhile to have a week day to get stuff done. Although, this weekend hubby was on the ball and helped me out big time around the house. And, I have a fabulous great-aunt who will call and say "Got your supper ready!" and off we go to eat a darn good meal. She's hands us a coozie with a Bud Light and says put your feet up. She's pretty much fabulous. She's a (draw the syllables out..char-AC-turrrr) and I freakin love it. And props for all aunts in this world who do little things that make the day a little better!

2. Sunburnt and consuming adult beverages would sum up the weekend. I REALLY try to keep the Dr. recommended sunscreen on and reapplied, but sometimes it just doesn't work. It was so windy and I have the most unfortunate burn on my thighs. Sweet. However, this weekend was gorgeous and we just reveled in it at the beach. And it was pup's first time to beach. Surprisingly he didn't like the waves of the ocean. He kept barking everytime they crashed onto shore. So, we were the goofball's in the water running around saying, "Come on Ralph, it's fun!!!" Maybe he'll get used to it! We also hit up a cook-out we were invited to, did some sailing/swimming, eating potato salad and drinking beer on a screened porch watching the sun go down over the water. Not too shabby.

3. My very best friend got engaged this weekend and I'm soooo excited. I'm just so happy for them and am already planning parties and presents! And so did our gal RED!!!!!!!! Congrats!! I think I was so exhausted from my own that I didn't (regretfully so) enjoy a few of my friends weddings as much as I should have. I can't wait to really have fun with this one! Now, I can't wait to enjoy hearing, helping about and reading wedding plans. Woohoo!!

4. Other than that, we are getting in our routines. I'm ready to enjoy the gym and really? Our plans are to enjoy the summer! Our next goal is to set up the backyard, get one of those wooden picnic tables from Lowe's and grill for summer cookin out. Also, I want to start an herb garden (by garden, I mean pots of a few of my favorite herbs, at least to start out...) Annnd, I have a super crafty project I want to do. I'll definitely be consulting here before I bust out the paint on our wooden furniture!


Summer Loving - things I'm digging right now:

*Farmer's market tomatoes
*"Getting Some Fun Out of Life" by Madeline Peyroux, "Mercy" by Duffy
*Fresh mint, freshly made rum and coke cocktails
*The beach music/oldies radio station
*umm, this adorable LLBean tote (I've already ordered and cannot wait to use - I want to monogram in a fun pink or green color!):
*Crabtree & Evelyn's India Hicks fragrance and Marc Jacob's limited edition Basil Splash. Oh when oh when are those stimulus checks coming?? (Although, husband would never understand how a great scent is ESSENTIAL for summer).
* Cool drinks out of Tervis tumblers and enjoy lazy days....:)

Whew

So far today (well, it is 9 pm), I jogged with the dog, cleaned up the house, vacuumed, gave the dog a bath, emailed some folks, sat on the phone for a 15 minutes on hold with the bank, did laundry, met the hub for lunch, scooted around and checked out some stores, went by the bank, got a pedicure (ahhhh, finally! My favorite luxury.), ran by Publix, walked the dog again, chatted with hubby, drank some red wine and made salmon with fresh green beans and couscous for dinner.

Whew! I'm tired, but man, do I love these kinds of days where I actually cross off most of my list and feel like I was uber productive.

I finally, finally feel good and settled. I've been checking out blogs when I can but we've been busy and really just getting into our new routine. So! Will be a better commenter and blogger.

The Move: Talk to me about two 9 hour days of driving with crap crammed in my car and a silently puking dog on the back...oh yeah and a TomTom who can't GPS a MAJOR detour in a major city of an interstate.

So that we get looped around a city for 30 minutes, trying to communicate through cell phones...exhausted. Oh yeah, and don't let me forget to warn you about the dangers of renting online (even when you have a working knowledge of an area). Because when you pull up, (completely worn out and the only thoughts you are registering are "Where can the dog pee? and what's the easiest quickest dinner possible?") to a complete CRAPHOLE with Sketchville USA's mayor as the landlord - I will tell you to THINK twice about renting online. Thank god we hadn't signed a lease.

But let me remind you of how fun it is to find a hotel that takes dogs. It's not. And I'll be damned, we had to sneak our dog into a hotel for the night. I mean, seriously, our sweet dog is so well-behaved and I felt HORRIBLE for all of the traveling he went through (no worries though, he was rewarded with new toys, Beggin Strips and a yard!). So, we regrouped and set out early the next morning to find a habitable place to live.

And by gum! We did it, we had to drive around but we found a place and were in it by lunchtime (Chickfila was my saving grace that day) - which has a yard, everything we need, porch and is only blocks from marsh and beaches. I mean, uhhh sweet. And for the same price as the craphole. I'm sorry, but how do people justify leaving beer cans out in the parking lot, NASTY trash cans in front of the door that is not marked with any sort of number - I just don't get it!

*Note the frequency of the CAPS which enhance how CRAZED I was **

Our stuff, which we had packed up, met us down here and we had a lovely experience with that - so nice to have them park it in your front yard to unload. However, until it came, we were camped out on air mattress and folding chairs. Sweet. Just like camping, without the natural purpose. Annnnd, because of our hasty and unexpected arrival to our new abode, we had no working fridge or stove.

Let me just say that PB & J and Taco Bell got old reallllll quick. (Shuddering at the thought of how we were Dollar Menuaires there for a week or so)

Needless to say, we had a bit of a time on our adventure down. However P got a job that he really likes, which is just so much more important that money. I can't tell you! It is really working out for him and I'm so happy.

Also! I'm working full-time and am tired but happy to be doing it. This isn't a career move but I'm enjoying what I'm learning and who I'm meeting. I'm also on my feet allllll day, which is hard and I've been on the exclusive hunt for shoes that are comfy and stylish. The closet I've come are "Born" sandals that I found at TJMaxx. Not totally my style (and a few years ago, I would have probably gagged at them) but now, it's all about comfort. I like my bosses too, which I feel is really important, and I'm already learning a lot about the business, which is something I've always wanted to do. Plus, I get a discount - I'll share more on that later.

We both have good schedules and I feel just blessed to be able to walk my dog in the morning down to the marsh and look at the ocean. I mean, life ain't perfect, but it just feels like home to us. And of course, now that I have internet up and running, I'm feeling super in control and back to normal.

Now, our income is steady, and operation Pay Off Debts (POD) and Save For House are in full effect. I've probably picked out, ooohhh, I don't know about 15 different houses I'd take.

Speaking of shopping, I'm missing out on the Target Whim Madras Heaven that is going on right now! We've been so busy I haven't had time and then, (bummer), the nearest Target is at least 45 minutes and a busy/picked over one at that!

Damn! I've picked out a few things online, but the one thing I really wanted - which was like a nautical rope blue/white table cloth (for 10 frickin dollars) is already gone! Argh. Oh well.

Oh! Looking to make a trip to Costco, though, one of these days. I've never been and we heard good things, so we may go when we visit friends. Oh! And I scored a sweet Lilly skirt on Ebay, I can't wait to get it.

And I'm looking to make some "I can wear to work, summer purchases", theme this year: Navy and white. Now, I honestly look at my wardrobe and need to find things that are versatile and can mix and match. Plus, navy and white is preppy and classic. I'll keep you updated. I took advantage of the lastest Ann Taylor Loft sale (do they not send one every day or what??) Not that I'm complaining.

Umm, I think that's all for now. A couple of things to discuss - prices of your embroiderer/monogrammer. How much do you pay? I checked out a retailer that I thought was just too much today and was wondering if maybe I was spoiled by my previous gal. Second, we don't have cable right now, but Denise Richards AND Dina Lohan having reality shows on E! Oh. Boy.

I haven't ordered it yet but I cannot wait to read Jen Lancaster's new book, Such a Pretty Fat! That's on my to do list. Any other good summer reads?

I think I've covered most of it for now...talk to ya later!

Mayjuh Update

Well, mayjuh update to come...I feel like I've been going 90 mph and have finally (this weekend) been able to take a breather, sit and enjoy what's around me. We are settled, happy and getting into our routine. We are also just enjoying being able to walk our dog to the beach and live the life we want. Anyhoo, I didn't have the time to fill in the update I wanted to write but for now...everything that's on mind this week!

Things on my mind right now:

Jenna Bush's wedding - I just saw the pictures from People but I really loved it - seemed like an atmosphere perfect for the couple ...and her dress! Gorgeous.

Ashlee Simpson's wedding - Ok, what's the deal here? Engaged a month ago, "pregnant", and poor old Jess sans a Tony Romo date? I'm not usually one to call it - but come on publicity! I'll be super curious to see the pics from that one.

Gossip Girl's season finale

Finding a turquoise and coral print scarf - I think a summer scarf in that coral motif would be great for dressing up and I was inspired by an outfit from one of the characters in Jane Austen Book Club...

Which we watched this weekend - Jane Austen book club - darling! I thought it was funny, of course I love Jane Austen and P gave it the "not too cheesy or girly" label, which means it was good!

Duffy - This gal's song I've heard on the radio, Amy Winehouse-ish...LOVE! Great for the summer.

LLBean crab tote - Umm yeah, it is the perfect summer tote, have you seen it? Go check it out, I plan on ordering mine ASAP.

Dove Refresh/Revive line (can't remember the exact name) But they have sprays, body washes - oh my, perfect for staying refreshed, I love all things Dove, but I really love the body bar that has slight exfoliators in it. So cheap and so refreshing.

Tomato/Mozz salad - We made one for dinner the other night..my absolute favorite thing in the world with fresh farmer's market tomatoes. Although, I couldn't find good basil at the store so sans basil. We have a patio/back deck yard here and we have plans to clean it up and create a little herb garden.

Manicure/Pedicure - Gotta find time to fit that in and possible an eyebrow wax, I'm waaaaaay overdue

That's it for today, I'll be working on a better update later!

Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Mother's/Grandmother's Day to all!

We have made the move and we are living amongst boxes, digging in them to only find essentials and feeling chaotic yet...happy. Best decision we've made, it definitely wasn't easy but we are just so happy! I've started my job, probably not a job I'll keep forever but in the meantime, it's good enough for me...Speaking of, blogger gals - Good recommendations for comfortable, yet stylish shoes for being on your feet all day??

Details to follow. Still no internet, living without internet is pretty darn impossible!

Discussing the merits of duct tape

Discussing the merits of duct tape versus what Lowe's offers as clear packing tape. One of the mildly interesting conversations while moving with my husband. Like I told him (dripping with sarcasm), it "brings out the sunny side in us" :). Or while I'm pumping a smallish table top above my head, going "Look at me, I feel like Rocky!", P chuckles himself and says "Ha! remember it's pine."


Craaaazzy times. Whew, another day of moving, cleaning and finishing up the 23402343 things one must do when moving and then some days of driving! One day at a time right?

Why do I always feel like I find potential neighbor relationships/"hello we could chat once in awhile" acquiantances right when we are about to move?? Bummer, I hate that feeling.

Once more, another crucial relationship I will be abandoning - my hairdresser. I found her here and loovvvvedd what she did with my hair. More so, I loooovvved how my hair grew out and reallly wanted to get back to her before I left? Can I squeeze in an appointment in the next 36 hours? Hmmm...

Things I'm really wanting to buy or do but probably won't have time seeing as how I have to START working a week from today and move/pay for a move:

- Cute summer dresses from Target, Boden and J.Crew
- Isaac seersucker bathing suit from Target
- Bonnano's (probably won't have time to make a selection during sale time, but I've heard so many rave reviews, I'll be trying to get some after those first paychecks start rolling in...)
- Laptop (el sicko of my desktop, reallllly wanting a laptop)
- To lose those 10-15 lbs I blatantly ignored but definitely gained this winter (comfort chocolate chip cookies say what?)
- A good trip to Sephora to replace some basics!


Will be out of touch for a bit folks! Have a great weekend, I'll be back when we get to our new place and when the internet gets rolling!

Books & Movies

I've been catching up on fun reading these days (and taking advantage of our fabulous local library)...


Notting Hell - This is a good summer read, lots of fabulous descriptions. I just love descriptions of the wealthy Londoners...cashmere socks, warmed floors and the food - honestly, I love that more than anything. Told from several different character's points of view - overall, good.
Posh - Imagine a little more realistic and depressing Gossip Girls. About a teenage girl, her boyfriend, their dysfunction and their relationship with their mothers. Like I said, if you are in the mood for something a little more gritty and sad, get with this one. Not bad, just for a certain mood - in my opinion.
Yummy Mummy - Oohhhh, yes, of all 3 - I totally recommend this one. I couldn't put it DOWN when I was supposed to be packing. I thought the main character, Amy, was uber realistic and completely related to her. You know when you follow a character and buy every choice they make, even when they are bad, because they are so human. While I loved Notting Hell for the descriptive introductions, I loved this for the character. And (it seemed to me) she created a realistic world of a new mother, who is lonely and is trying to cope with her new reality and new body. I definitely would pick this one up!!



So, I have a little secret. Ever since I can remember, I've been infatuated with "cheesy 80s movies."

As in, my friends know me as the cheeseball with a collection of VHS (yeah that's right) of classics from our childhood. As in, the movies that are only found in the non-chain rental stores with a little dust on them. As in, the type of movie most people make fun of for lame soundtracks, too many neon clothes and big hair. I couldn't name them all here and probably wouldn't even know half of the names, but any movie that TBS would play on repeat, would fall under this category.

It just reminds me of summertime, when I was young and we would go rent a movie (for like, what a dollar??) and get a snowcone for the road home. Going to the movie theater and renting movies were kind of a ritual in my house. We loved it.

• Can't Buy Me Love: Come on, I loved Patrick Dempsey waaayyy before he was McDreamy. "Can't Buy Me Love" where he tries to buy the love of a "cool" girl, so he can be cool! Yes! The cars, the clothes, the dorks v. popular crowd. Classic. Remember "Loverboy"?!

• Splash. Oh for about 6 months or so, my best friend and I, when we were in elementary school would have a slumber party, wake up, watch Splash and American Gladiators, eat cereals and jump on her trampoline. Those were the good old days when we thought crazy merwomen were wondering around NYC !

Turner and Hooch: This was on tv the other day, I mean how can you not love Tom Hanks?! I wasn't a huge fan of this when I was younger...but now, just look at the movie poster.




Uncle Buck: Heheh, I love John Candy and the scene here where he makes the gigantic pancakes for McCauley Culkin. This, The Great Outdoors and Summer Rental are some of my all time favorites!
Adventure in Babysitting: Puhleease, I started babysitting at the age of 11 or 12 and Elisabeth Shue was soooooo cool to me. I could watch this one over and over!

Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's: Ok, I could probably put this one in my top 5. It's awesome: they get to live at home for the summer "parent free", she gets to work at a vague "design firm for uniforms", get a boyfriend and hang out. I really don't know how many times I've watched this movie, but I wanted to be Christina Applegate for a summer when I was 12. Honestly.
Girls Just Want to have Fun: SJP before Sex and the City. A dance competition?? 80s music?? Fabulous costumes?? Yes, please!
My Stepmother is an Alien: Hahaha, she eats batteries out of her purse and the UFOs are hilarious. This is a legit classic 80s movie.
Pretty in Pink: Oh, here is the real deal. Molly Ringwald. Pretty in Pink. Every girl's anthem. And What a crush did I have on Andrew McCarthy???? In all of his fine 80s prepwear??

Well, that ends here. I could go on forever, but I won't.

What are your favorite cheesy/80s/90s/childhood movies?

Sporadic Thoughts on a Monday!

Scene: Every single Sunday Morning (keep in mind our mass schedule goes - 7:30 am, 9:30 am and 5:30 teen mass).

Alarm blaring at 6:30

Me: You can take a shower first...bleah bleary eyed talk
Husband: No, you take longer
Me: Ok, I'll sleep a little longer

7:00 am

Me: Damn, we aren't making it...how about 9:30

Hub: erghh, 9:30 too busy, but ok...

Roll over back to sleep

9:00 am

Me: Damn, we definitely aren't making this one either...how about brunch and 5:30 mass
Husband: snoring zzzzzzzzzzz
Me: Ok.

Why do we follow this pattern?? Every week, why don't we just up and admit we are never going to get up that early on the weekend!!

- I missed a girl's weekend with my high school friends and can I say? I'm not disappointed in the least. It's a sad but true acknowledgment that I've moved on, just in the fact that my life priorities are different. I'm ready (and I feel dorky for saying it) but to make new friends, girlfriends I can go, have a drink with and not have the catty "I know your past, all we do talk sheeot all night" conversations. One filled me on the weekend and her notes included how another friend was a lot more skinny now and how she had been chubby for her size (Which she was SO NOT), so she was looking better...like, I don't have these conversations. Maybe it's because I hang out with guy so much, but I'm reminded of how I was so "bodily insecure" in high school because these friends were super skinny and I just wasn't. I just don't like that whole vibe, feeling and attitude of "who's lost weight and looks better." In fact, I hate it and was really disappointed hearing that come out of her mouth. Oy, moving on!

- I had a FANTASTIC 'monogrammer' before we moved, I took everything to her. Then, I realized I was getting married, so I thought I'd just save up and wait to get the new monogram. Now? I have a HUGE list of things I want to get monogrammed. And I shall list them here!

*Our fabulous duvet/pillowcases (white with a blue stripe) husband wasn't too keen on the Big monogram in the middle of the duvet, so we agreed on the pillowcases.
*My Vera Bradley, I switched to the Pink Petal which is already retiring (geezz!)
*Silver jewelry - I really want a set of earrings and a great silver cuff with engraved initials
*Tote bags - I have a random assortment of LLBean navy totes with our last name, but I'd like to get one with my new initials
*We got this gorgeous silver tray for our wedding and I'd love to get it engraved with our wedding date/name
*Preppy monogrammed gifts (Have you been to this site?) I LOVE the preppy plates, what a fabulous idea! An everyday, useful melamine plate with a monogram. I would really love to get a set of these and how perfect for gifts?? Because really? What do we use everyday, bowls and small 'sandwich' plates!

And just for good old preppy sake - How about Target, Cynthia Rowley and Whim creating MADRAS for the summer??? Can't wait. I'm thinking I want the table cloth. I remember Cynthia Rowley's Swell and how I had all of the plastic dishes, the shower curtain, the towels - that was a really great line. So much fun.

- This weekend I: packed, packed some more, got rid of more clothes (haven't worn in a year? See YA!), attempted to sell some things on Ebay, ate fettucine alfredo (haven't eaten in years), ordered MORE boxes and packing paper, fought with hubby about throwing away a frame, got really excited about our move, worried about this whole we pack up a trailor/pod thing and have all of our stuff delivered and looked for sandals online. Oh and watched some great old school TBS movies. Watch for my 80s movie post I'm working on. And watched another Harry Potter (addicted much!!)