The New Black

2.14.12

2012-02-14T06:33:00.001-08:00

I'm normally not a big celebrator of Valentine's Day. I don't know what's gotten into me this year.

Last night I was inspired by Amy's post to whip up some cute, yummy and easy red velvet heart crinkle cookies to help spread some V Day love.

Early this morning I left my guy a little gift wrapped up all pretty, sitting on his laptop where he won't miss it. I got him an iPhone so that he'll quit taking mine to play Angry Birds.

Tonight we're going to hit up Earl's for dinner before I drag him to see the mushiness that is The Vow. As I'm sure you can imagine, he's really looking forward to this. ☺

What are your V Day plans?

I ♥ Holland

2012-02-13T10:09:00.000-08:00

I was gifted the most awesome treat over the weekend...the entire new OPI Holland collection! I've already got more nail polishes than I know what to do with, but hey, what's a dozen more?!

I spent a good chunk of my afternoon yesterday playing around with the colors while watching ~~and re-watching~~ Breaking Dawn Part 1 on DVD. At first glance I didn't really care for the shimmer in the colors, but it's since grown on me.

I was going to insert a nail shimmer/vampire glittering in the sun joke here, but just don't have that kind of wit on a Monday morning.

After several applications and removals I ended up with I Have a Herring Problem on my nails and Vampsterdam on my toes. Oh and I might have given my pup a Thanks a Windmillion pedi too. He wasn't thrilled about it, nor was my boyfriend.

I'm not a real pink-on-the nails kind of gal, but I think tonight I may switch it up in honor of VDay tomorrow. I'll probably do that while I watch the director's cut of Breaking Dawn. ☺

How are you liking the Holland collection? Got a favorite color? A favorite name? Am I the only one who falls for the great name but doesn't like the color associated with it?

Heigl is back in my good graces, for the time being

2012-02-03T07:08:00.000-08:00

Last night we had a little girl's night to check out One For The Money, a film of first book in the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich. I've read the first five in the series and have enjoyed them. They are light, silly and completely predictable, but I am OK with that. I liken them to the Shopaholic series books...they are a nice refresher book to throw in between two heavier reads. Anyways, back to the movie...

I was not expecting much, but was presently surprised. I have a weird thing with Katherine Heigl. For some unbeknownst reason she just irks me. To the core. So obviously I was less than thrilled when I found out she'd be playing the Stephanie Plum role. I've since gotten over it, because she actually did play the Stephanie role pretty well, terrible fake Jersey accent aside.

I loved their choice for Ranger, but I also just love Daniel Sunjata in anything he does. ☺

Sherri Shepherd was fab as Lulu. Gotta love those pants!

I wasn't in love with their pick for Morelli, but I didn't really have anyone in particular in mind, so I guess he'll do.

So, all in all, I {as well as all the other ladies} completely enjoyed the flick, will definitely be buying it when it comes out on DVD and think you should all go see it...preferably with your besties.

I don't know if there are plans to make any more books from the series into movies, but I hope they do!!

So, did you see it? What did you think?

Static

2012-01-31T06:22:00.000-08:00

I've got a serious case of static hair. It's been going on for a few weeks, and in my book that is more than a few weeks too many.

I think it partly comes down to the fact that I need to be drinking more water and less diet coke.

I'm working on it.

I've tried a few deep conditioners, no luck. I tried a leave in conditioner and my hair looked all greasy at the roots and then all static-y at the ends.

I'm close to chopping off my locks in frustration, which ~~hopefully~~ obviously isn't the answer to my dilemma.

Got any suggestions, favorite hydrating/conditioning/static killing hair products I should try?

Gracias.

the gambler

2012-01-30T07:31:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we trekked to the somewhat local casino to get our gamble on.

I am not a big gambler. While I absolutely love to win me some money, but simply cannot handle losing it, which let's be honest, it usually how it goes. This is why I play the penny slots. It'll take me an hour or two to lose $20 bucks, so I just look at it as the cost of entertainment.

We had an awesome time {aside from all that second hand smoke - blech} but can't quite narrow down the highlight of the night. It all comes down to

~me winning $28.50 on the penny slots. Yeah, that may not sound like a lot, but that's 2,850 credits...I was ballin'!

or

~seeing a woman reading her bible at the bar while downing a cold one {or three}. Hey, you know what they say...church is wherever you choose to worship. ☺

Cameras are a big no-no in casinos but I couldn't resist snapping a shot {covertly, of course} of the darlin' machine that gave me my fortune. How ever will I decide on what to spend my winnings on?!

How do you gamble? Slots, poker, 21...keno?

Poor Gretchen

2012-01-27T07:13:00.000-08:00

Bestie emailed me this pic and I had to share...

...totally made me laugh!

I love Mean Girls. And this Channing guy isn't half bad either.

Oh, and how excited are you for The Vow. Me? I am super excited!

Happy Friday. ☺

Juicy, juicy

2012-01-26T07:07:00.000-08:00

I recently watched Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead on Netflix after having a friend rave about it.

I have to admit, the first third of the film wasn't capturing my attention and I nearly quit watching it. I am so glad that I hung in there because the rest of it was to interesting and inspiring! If you haven't see it, you've got to!

My guy and I don't have any health problems like the gentlemen in the film but figure that we could stand to be a little pickier about what we put in our bodies.

We have decided to give this juicing this a try. We haven't started yet; we're still waiting for our super spiffy juicer to arrive. I am excited, but a little nervous to commit to this. I'm worried that I'll only last a day and a half then go on a crazy carb binge. Kidding, kinda. OK, not really...it totally sounds like something I'd do.

I think that starting off with some tasty juices will help keep me on board. So, have you juiced? How did it go? What are your favorite juicing concoctions?

Currently

2012-01-25T07:01:00.000-08:00

Reading/Listening - Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand

I am not a big historic reader, but this book has reeled me in. While the book oozes wartime facts, it's written in such a way that they blend into the back of the storyline and you find yourself feeling as if you're right there, in the tale rather than seeing it from outside.

I talked about it so much that my boyfriend started listening to the audiobook too and has been hounding me to listen faster because he's already caught up to me and is having a hard time waiting for me to finish the next disc.

Watching - Gossip Girl, Season 3

I'm surprised it took me this long to start watching this show. I went through the first two seasons on Netflix while I was holed up at home sick and have gotten hooked to it.

On one hand I find all the characters completely annoying, predicable and ridiculous, but on the other hand I can't stop clicking forward to the next episode once the credits roll. I haven't quite decided who my favorite GG character is though...it keeps changing episode to episode. Who is your fav?

Listening to - 21 by Adele

I've had this album playing in the background for weeks. It's on while I'm puttering around the kitchen, it's on while I'm painting my nails, it's on while I'm dusting, it's on while I'm taking a soak, it's on while I'm cruising the internet, it's always on. I just love her voice.

I get like this with music...I'll listen an album to death then not listen to it for ages. This is my second rotation of playing this album non-stop. I'm sure there will be many more. Someone Like You is my favorite song on the album. What's yours?

Constantly Craving - Caprese Salad

I had the most delicious mini caprese appetizer at a Christmas party last month and I've been craving and devouring caprese salads ever since. I skip the basil leaves and just use that basil paste you get next to the fresh packaged herbs at the market. It's so much easier and I think tastier. Reduced balsamic vinegar is the best, but if I'm feeling impatient just plain ol' balsamic vinegar does the trick.

Weirdest thing about this...my entire life I've never liked tomatoes. Now I love them...as long as they are part of my dear caprese salad. Go figure.

Wearing - A-Taupe the Space Needle by OPI

This color looks a bit different on than it does in the bottle. It has a bit more of a olive green tint to it. I prefer something with a deeper brown shade. Really, this looks sorta like mud. Not my favorite color, but thought I'd give it a try. I'll keep sporting it until it begins to chip, but probably won't be wearing it again any time soon. Maybe it'd be good layered with another color??

So there, that's how I've been spending my free time lately...it's been pretty good. ☺

I don't know what to say. I got the fever.

2012-01-24T06:42:00.000-08:00

I had the most embarrassing professional moment yesterday.

I had a minute but catastrophic slip of the tongue that has sent me into a permanent blush of humiliation. Of course it had to happen in a conference room filled with a dozen or so people.

A colleague asked me how I handled being holed up at home for a few weeks {I was sick, then got snowed in}. I replied by saying that I had the 'worst case of jungle fever'.

I quickly realized my gaffe and corrected it to 'cabin fever. Cabin Fever. CABIN FEVER. I meant to say cabin fever...' but I was still on the receiving end of a few weird looks and I swear a chuckle or two*.

Blurgh.

*for those of you not in the know, the ironic part here is that my guy is black, so as he points out...I do have a touch of the fever. :)

Long time, no blog

2012-01-23T07:47:00.000-08:00

It seems like I've been away forever, but it's only been a little over a month.

I've been traveling, sick, snowed in and at times just plain lazy...but that's all over and I'm back to being a blogger.

I've actually blocked out a few hours to tackle my Google Reader, which is overflowing with 1000+ posts! Off to catch up with y'all...

Whatcha see? Whatcha hear?

2011-12-20T07:54:00.000-08:00

A little of what I've been indulging in during the rare moments between all the holiday craziness lately...

Listening to Drums of Autumn by Diana Gabaldon

This is the longest audiobook ever! Most audiobooks are between 8 and 14 discs...this book is 39 discs long! I've been listening to it nearly every second I've been in the car for weeks and I still have 6 discs to go. It's a great story in a great series, but it is l-o-n-g! Would they just start making this series into movies already?! But seriously, movies, please.

Reading Decoded by Jay-Z

I just got it and have only cracked it open to look through the pictures and read a few pages so far. I've heard such good things about it from a variety of people. I am really looking forward to taking a few lazy hours over my holiday break to really delve into it.

Watching Gilmore Girls

I just finished watching the final series episode. I bought all the seasons a few months back and have been watching them like crazy ever since. In the beginning I thought Rory was super annoying but then the roles flipped partway through and I found that sometimes Lorelai was buggin'. Her redeeming quality was her good fashion sense...I always liked her clothes. I enjoyed the series, but wouldn't say it ranks in my top ten favorites though. I am in need of a new series to take it's place though...any suggestions?

Whatcha been reading/watching/listening to lately?

p.s. I'm guest posting over at Christina's today and sharing a little holiday cheer. Come check it out.

NYE

2011-12-15T09:25:00.001-08:00

I saw New Year's Eve last night. I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it. I'd heard it was a little dry so I kept my bar pretty low.

I didn't care for the whole Heigl/Bon Jovi thing. It may just be that I am still at odds over our relationship. Me and Katherine Heigl that is, not Jon Bon Jovi...just to be clear.

It may be a stretch to say that he was my favorite part of the film, but I would have liked to see a little more of the dog from the pound.

He's the cutest pup to hit Hollywood since Chompers from Will & Grace.

I need to find out what kind of puppy he is. And also discover a way to breed dogs so that they always stay puppies.

Seen NYE? What did ya think?

Sounds like Christmas

2011-12-14T09:15:00.000-08:00

Since we got our home speaker system installed I have had music playing constantly whenever I am home. Pretty sure it drives my guy nuts, but he's getting used to it.

I've been listening to an array of Christmas music. My favorites holiday albums that I've listened to for years are Andrea Bocelli's, Celine Dion's and Il Divo's. I've picked up a few new favorites this year too: Michael Bublé's, She & Him's and both of Glee's holiday albums.

Years ago my dentist office sent all their patients a holiday CD. It was compiled of the staff's favorite holiday songs. It was on this random CD that I discovered two of my favorites.

Let It Be Christmas by Alan Jackson. This is surprising since I am not a big fan of Country music, but this song really gets to me.

Song For A Winter's Night by Sarah McLachlan. It's not really a Christmas song, but a holiday song nonetheless. It's so calming and relaxing.

Is there an amazing Christmas song or album out there that I just can't afford to miss out on? Do share your fav.

A Very Bloggy Christmas - Look What I Got!!

2011-12-13T16:17:00.000-08:00

My Very Bloggy Christmas swap partner was the ever darling Brown Eyed Girl. I was so glad to get paired up with her!

I've been reading her blog since way back when, so it was nice to have a little insight into the gal I'd be swapping with. And let me tell ya, girl hooked me up!!!

I got a set of yummy smelling candles, some holiday dish towels, a magnetic note pad, a skillet brownie set and some peanut butter cups {which I opened and ~~devoured~~ snacked on a few about 17.5 seconds after I ripped the package open in the post office parking lot. True story - I have practically zero shame}.

Really, she made me day. Thanks b.e.g. - you're the best swap partner a blogger could ask for. Aww, so sappy!

What to Expect When Your Expecting

2011-12-09T06:33:00.000-08:00

I watched this trailer for the first time just this morning and within the first few seconds of it I knew that I'd be seeing it the day it opened. It looks hilarious!

Check it out and tell me what you think...

So?

Wait, it's not November anymore?

2011-12-08T13:58:00.000-08:00

It's just hit me that Christmas is practically tomorrow and I haven't even taken down my Fall decorations.

I've been sick and apparently unable to read a calendar for a week...oops.

Now that I've rejoined the rest of the functioning world I spent the day mapping out what needs to be done and who we need to buy what for. First thing I did this morning was stock up on 20 sheets of this darling holiday wrapping paper.

I'm going to wrap all the gifts our dachshund pup is giving in it, and if I can get him to chill out long enough I'm going to stamp his paw as the 'from' on the tag too.

I know, that sounds a little crazy, but....well, no buts, it is crazy. ☺

Please tell me this is a funhouse mirror

2011-11-29T11:06:00.000-08:00

I'm having one of those days.

You know the one where you try a different look and think that you've pulled it off, only to realize that the way you picture yourself and what you actually look like are nowhere near the same thing?!

Yeah, those days.

I was totally going for a look similar to this, sporting a cute fitted down vest.

Well, I just glanced at myself in the loo mirror at work and I swear, it was like the marshmallow man from Ghostbusters was looking back at me.

Fitted, this vest may be, but it's got fluff for days. I look like I'm trying to hide a pregnancy or something.

On one hand, it's been a bit of a fashion fail day, but on the other hand, I am super comfy. Maybe a little too comfy for the office though. ☺

I do Black Friday a little different

2011-11-28T13:55:00.000-08:00

Last week everyone was all 'Yay, can't wait for Black Friday'. I was looking forward to it to, but for a completely different reason.

While all the shoppers were scrambling for the best deals, I was all relaxed at the movie theater, watching movies all day. Yep, that's right...all.day.long. By myself. Amazing.

Best day after Thanksgiving tradition ever! I saw My Week with Marilyn, The Descendants, Breaking Dawn {again} and Tower Heist.

My Week with Marilyn was good, but nothing to rave about. I will say that Michelle Williams did a great job as Marilyn...I wasn't sure if she could pull it off, but she did.

The Descendants was as sad as it was funny. I'd start crying then I'd be laughing mid-cry. It was a really good one, and George doesn't disappoint.

Breaking Dawn, not as good as the first time I saw it, but I'm still a fan. There is a fight scene that was weird and I was rolling my eyes during the 'wolf talking' scene...it was very comic-booky.

Tower Heist was really funny. I had no expectations going in, so maybe that's why I was so surprised. It was a good movie to finish up the day with.

I have zero sadness for all the screaming deals that I missed out on at the mall. In my book, this is the best way to spend the day after Thanksgiving...and I plan to keep doing it every year. Well, that's until I pop out a baby, then I guess it'll have to take priority over movie marathon day...right?

Seeing Red

2011-11-22T07:02:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to show off my goods from the scarf and nail polish swap hosted by You Are My Color and On The Front Porch. Yes, I joined another scarf swap because one can really never have too many scarves. Am I right?!

I was paired up with Amanda and made out pretty good on my end. This scarf is so soft, and is a great Winter accessory.

I just had my nails Shellac'd so I skipped over them and went right for polishing my toesies and my little pigs look good in this red. Really, my guy told me so. ☺

Thanks Amanda!

Change of plans

2011-11-21T06:49:00.000-08:00

Our original plan for a nice Thanksgiving dinner for two has been scrapped.

As of yesterday we are now hosting ten people for the holiday feast. Cue freak out.

Luckily I've got a few good recipes in reserve so I don't have to worry about that aspect of the plan. I'll be cooking my not-so-secret anymore, very mostest favoritest moistest turkey ever, the champagne turkey along with some caramel yams and since I don't like pie I'll be making this super easy pumpkin cake.

OK, you gotta have pie for Thanksgiving...maybe I'll buy those, but I'm still making the cake!

I've still got a few sides to figure out. Normally I am an Stove Top stuffing, cranberry sauce and green beans from a can kind of gal, but I feel obligated to put in a little more effort since we'll be having guest which means I'll be scouring the interwebs like a madwoman and begging friends for trusted recipes.

Yeah, internet bloggy friends fall into that category. What's your go-to Thanksgiving side dish?

Ooh, you smell good.

2011-11-16T07:06:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you gals, but applying perfume is just as important to me as wearing pants. I never go anywhere without it. Anywhere. I've got four go-to perfumes.

Cashmere Mist by Donna Karan

It's light, clean and sticks around all day long without being overpowering at all. I discovered it by sniffing my dental assistant about five years ago. She smelled SO good, I just had to ask her what she was wearing. We've been together ever since...the perfume and the dental assistant; she's become a great friends and we've got Cashmere Mist to thank for it.

Allure by Chanel

I started wearing this my Senior year of high school. It was the clear winner when I set out to smell everything at the Nordstrom counter in search of the perfect prom scent. The saleswoman told me I had very elegant taste for such a young girl. When I remember this exchange I imagine her saying young woman instead though...I like it better. ☺ After all these years I still feel a little fancy when I wear this.

Design by Paul Sebastian

Over a decade ago I met a friends grandmother who wore this scent and I was taken with it. It is very much a grandma perfume, which is how I normally refer to it...not as Design, but as my granny perfume. I don't even know how to explain it beyond that. It's just very grandma-like. That being said, it is the perfume I get the most comments on. I wear it so often that I don't notice the scent much anymore but honestly, I probably don't go a week without someone commenting on it...it's just that good. Chances are I'll be wearing this til the day I die...and then I'll be buried with a bottle.

Pleasures Delight by Estee Lauder

I got this in a little sample tube about five years ago. I threw it in my jewelry box with the rest of the samples I had with out taking a sniff and forgot about it. A few months later I was going on a trip and grabbed this one at random to pack in my carry-on and boy am I glad I did! This is one of the yummiest scents I've ever come across! It's fruity, but sweet, but a tad floral. It's just delicious. It's so good I've bought it as gifts for others knowing it's a scent that anyone would love.

I've been pretty committed to these same four fragrances. Sure, there are a few scents that creep in every now and then, but their appearances are limited and they've either been given to friends who like them of have been banished to the back of the linen closet where they'll collect dust indefinitely.

Currently auditions are being held for a new scent to add to my rotation. There's been a lot of sniffing around but I haven't found the one that's to go on my Christmas list. Much more exploration is on the horizon. Help me out...what is your go-to perfume?

Games!

2011-11-09T06:52:00.001-08:00

We've got a game night in the works but are a tad uncertain of what games are funnest to play with 8 or so people.

We've got the classics Cranium, Taboo, Outburst, but would like to play something new and fun too.

Played any new board games lately?

Suggestions, please!

Cher and Liza and Gaga, oh my!

2011-11-07T07:28:00.000-08:00

I drug my guy to his first {and apparently last} drag show this weekend.

I mean that quite literally...he did not want to go. But I did and he loves me so he went {and ran into an old colleague of his!}. In turn I promised that I'd go to the next lingerie football game with him. Totally worth it - the show was awesome!

It's true, relationships are all about compromise. ☺

Baubles

2011-11-04T08:03:00.000-07:00

I got roped into attending a Stella & Dot party earlier this week. It's like an Avon or Tupperware party {we all know how much fun they are!}, but with jewelry instead.

I was expecting to dash in, purchase a cheap bracelet in the name of politeness and then make my leave. I actually ended up staying for two hours...and plopped my plastic down for much more than a cheap bracelet.

A pretty little jewelry filled package arrived yesterday and I played dress up with it's contents for a ridiculously long portion of the evening last night. Check out my spoils.

1,2,3,4,5

Not bad, eh? The last one I'd actually pinned on Pinterest months ago. I was so surprised and excited to find it at the party! I half expected the pieces to be cheap and flimsy but they are quite well made.

I just may have stumbled onto a new favorite jewelry spot!

What not to read

2011-11-01T08:25:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading The Murderer's Daughters.

It was just OK. Not surprisingly, there wasn't a lot of happiness in this book. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. It did make me appreciate my incredibly normal upbringing a little more though.

I am currently reading Bloodroot.

I am not enjoying this book at all. It's gotten a lot of great reviews so I just kept pushing through assuming that it would get better, but I am on the last disc and I am still not liking it so I think I might have been taken on this one. It quite dark and the timeline seems too misplaced to me. Again, I wouldn't recommend it.

Next up I plan to read The Penny Pinchers Club.

After the last two downer books I've decided that I need something a bit lighter and a little funny. The summary reminded me of a Shopaholic series-type book, which sounds great to me right about now...I'll keep you posted.

Read any of these? What are you reading right now?

Oh, and am I the only one who hates the new Google Reader?

Scarf Swap - What I Got

2011-10-28T20:54:00.000-07:00

I was really happy with the scarf I received in Mrs. Smith's Scarf Swap.

My swap partner was Katie from Tale of a GRITS and she done good! Cute right?!

I've got a cozy cardi that has just been waiting for this darling scarf to accompany it. Thanks Katie!!

I wanted Olsen not Nelson!

2011-10-27T08:21:00.000-07:00

I hit up a new salon yesterday for a trim and then some. I decided to cut some side swiped bangs and add a few more layers. This is the picture I showed the stylist.

Cute, yeah?
Well, after she styled me up I looked more like the missing Nelson* triplet...no lie.

It looked a bit better after I messed around with it myself, but still not the look I was going for. I'm debating as to whether I stick it out for a bit and see what I can do with it or just go back for a fix today. I know it's not a big deal to ask her to fix it but I seriously hate confrontation.

Too bad I'm not dressing up for Halloween this year...I could chalk my bad cut up to my 80's rocker costume. ☺

*when we were younger my little brother loved Nelson. I text him a picture of my hair and he thought it was 'rad'. Dork.

Getting busy

2011-10-21T08:44:00.000-07:00

My pup has been pimped out to share his stellar bloodlines with another darling doxie, who is wanting to be in a family way. He's shacked up with this ~~skank~~ sweet gal for two days and still has three more to go and I am missing him like crazy.

Pretty sure he is having the time of his life and never wants to come home though!

My guy and I don't know what to do with ourselves without our lil' one right under foot every single waking second. We just sit there in silence, staring at each other with blank looks.

Guess this is preparing us for the real version of empty nest syndrome some twenty years down the road. We better get out and live it up while we can! I'm trying to talk him into going to Le Faux tonight...we'll see how that goes.

Happy Friday y'all!

I meant to wear it like this

2011-10-20T10:18:00.000-07:00

Just got back from grabbing coffee with a friend I hadn't seen for a while. First thing she says to me was not 'hi!', or 'so good to see you', but 'um, I think your shirt is on backwards'.

I pull out the collar and look down the front my shirt, right at the tag...that should be in the back. I blushed, we giggled, and I got myself all straightened out.

I'd been walking around for hours like that and nobody told me! Forget that, the bigger problem is that I didn't even notice.

Granted, it wasn't like I was wearing a button up shirt that had the buttons in the back instead of the front {can't find the exact shirt, but this is the closest I could find} but it would have been pretty obvious to anyone who looked at me head on. Or you know, if I glanced in a mirror.

She later told me that she was tempted to snap a picture of me first for future blackmail or to post on FB, and then tell me, but she's too good of a friend for that. Yeah, I'm so lucky. ☺

You know there is an app for that

2011-10-17T07:30:00.000-07:00

I've been glued to my new iPhone all weekend but am pretty sure that I haven't even tapped in to 1/1000th of the things I can do with it.

All you iPhone veterans out there, help me out...what are your favorite-don't-know-how-you-ever-lived-without-them apps?

I've got a huge iTunes credit just waiting to be spent!

A whiner and a winner

2011-10-12T08:07:00.000-07:00

This gross bug that is going around has been slowly creeping up on me for days.

I've been trying to fight it off by downing liquids like crazy and taken to spending as much time wrapped up in a blanket on the couch as often as possible. I am determined not to get sick but am still acting a little whiny like I am sick.

All this couch camping has given time to clear out my DVR and finally start watching Gilmore Girls. I was gifted season one years ago and just never watched it.

I'm not quite hooked on the show yet, but I'm working on it. The dialogue seems so forced and Rory is bordering on annoying. Thoughts? Should I keep watching or does she just get more annoying as the seasons progress?

One more thing I want to share from my kinda-sorta-but-not-really-sickbed...the winner of the postcard giveaway.

The lucky gal is the one, the only, the oh-so-darling Sincerely Sara Cate. Congrats!

Email me ~~blogsthenewblack {at} gmail {dot} com~~ to collect your prize.

OK, I'm off to brew more tea and get my vapo rub huff on...oh, and to see what those wacky Gilmore girls are up to next.

The most important meal of the day

2011-10-11T07:14:00.000-07:00

I like to start my day out with a nice round breakfast.

Make it a double.

And I eat them on a tissue because that is how the classy people do it.

Don't hate.

OK, maybe I have a problem...

**Don't forget, this is the last day to enter my postcard giveaway. Hurry, go enter!**

So long Wellies!

2011-10-07T08:48:00.000-07:00

I love my Wellies, but they are on their way to being replaced by these brilliant J. Crew Weatherby's.

They zip up the back...how great is that?! Sure, they aren't made for stomping through deep puddles, but really, how many of us do that anyways?!

They will be great for taking the pup out for a stroll or wearing to the Fall Harvest Festival {I've already figured them into my outfit!} and plus they are just really cute!

I think I'll gave to get a red pair too...I just thought of another cute outfit to pair them with. And hey, this is Seattle...you can never have too many pairs of rain boots!

**Oh, and don't forget to enter my postcard giveaway!**

Postcard Giveaway!

2011-10-06T10:41:00.000-07:00

I know I can't be the only one who just realized that the holidays are just around the corner. Right?

Every year I plan on being on top of things so that I can have all the work done ahead of time and then relax and actually enjoy the holiday season. More often than not it plays out in pretty much the exact opposite fashion. A few years back I didn't even get a holiday card out...it ended up being a Happy New Year card.

So learn from my mistake. Get your holiday card planning done with now so you can cross that one big thing off your list.

UPrinting has graciously offered to sponsor a post card giveaway on this lil' blog right here. One lucky winner will receive 100 5x7 14 pt cardstock front printed postcards!

Yeah, sure, they don't have to be holiday cards - their postcard choices and other online printing options are endless. Oh, and if you do end up waiting to last minute, have no fear - they offer a two business day print turnaround and free shipping. Not too shabby, eh?

There are three ways you can enter the giveaway:

~leave a comment on this post for one entry~
~tweet about the giveaway {make to include me @newblack & @UPrinting} for another entry~
~mention the giveaway on your own blog for one more entry~

Please leave a comment letting me know of your entries so I can make sure you get your shot at it! The winner will be selected and announced Wednesday October 12th at 8:00 AM.

OK, go ahead...enter away!

~~I was not monetarily compensated for this giveaway in any way...just by postcards. ☺~~

An array of reading

2011-10-05T08:06:00.000-07:00

I've got a bit of a jumble of different books making their way through my lineup lately.

I just finished reading Every Last One by Anna Quindlen.

I had absolutely no idea what the book was about so I was completely caught off guard with the shocking turn the story took. I would highly recommend it.

I just started reading Uglies by Scott Westerfeld.

Again, I didn't know much about this book going in, just that a few people I know had liked the triology. I am still getting a feel for the time the book is set in and familiarizing myself with some of the terminology. It hasn't done a great job of painting a picture what's happening so far so I hope it picks up soon.

Next up on the roster is Cannery Row by John Steinbeck.

I'm on the fence about adding any more Steinbeck books to my reading queue. I've read some and really enjoyed them {Of Mice and Men and East of Eden} but have been quite nearly bored to tears with a few as well {Tortilla Flat, especially}. Looks like this will determine if I continue down the Steinbeck road.

Have you read any of these? What are your thoughts? Please share what you are reading now...I can always use a recommendation!

magic pill

2011-10-04T05:35:00.000-07:00

I've been taking an over the counter sleep aid for years. It's just part of my nightly routine. For some reason I have it in my head that I simply cannot sleep without it.

It recently occurred to me that this may not be completely normal {shocker!} and I've been slowly trying to wean myself off 'the junk'. This is no joke...it is brutal, I tell ya.

I feel like haven't gotten a good nights sleep for weeks, which as you can imagine does wonders for my sparkling personality. I keep waking up throughout the night and not being able to get back to sleep. I'm making myself miserable..and for what? Normalcy? That's sooo overrated.

I am about two ginormous yawns away from giving up and going back to my nightly fix. I should have known that I wasn't strong enough to give it up...who was I kidding?!

I think I just may be a pill popper for life. No shame in that...or if there is, who cares - I'll be able to sleep through it.

Of all the things I could have bought this weekend, this is what I came home with.

2011-10-03T10:22:00.000-07:00

I am now the proud owner of a sewing machine.

Anyone who really knows me would be laughing at me right now. This is one of the last things that I would be expected to buy.

I had a run in with a sewing machine during my middle school home ec class {needle right through my left index finger*} and we've been sworn enemies ever since.

What has brought us together again? Well, that credit goes to Pinterest. Yes, Pinterset. I've found loads of cute decorating how-to's on there that require just the littlest bit of stitching and I have decided that I can't let a little needle through the finger stand in my way from having cute curtains and pillows any longer!

So, keep your eyes peeled {and your fingers crossed!}, I've got a few sewing projects on the horizon...well, as long as this sewing machine can keep her needles to herself!

*I promise to share this horrendously embarrassing story at a later date.

Hot or Not? - United Nude's Ultra Loop

2011-09-29T09:03:00.000-07:00

I am usually fairly reserved when it comes to what shoes I wear. I tend to shy away from glitter, sparkles, chain and spikes...all that stuff.

I was a bit caught off guard when my initial response to this shoe was to want them in black, brown, red and any other color they come in.

They have a somewhat classic look about them, but change the angle a bit and they have some funkiness twisted in.

The super high heel is the only thing that puts me off a bit...it's whopping 5 inches! I just don't think I could pull that off. I'd be looking down at the tops of everyone's head all night. And, uh, where would that put their eyes? Hmm, maybe not a good idea.

So, what's your gut telling you...Hot or Not?

Dry shampoo

2011-09-26T06:48:00.000-07:00

My hair is a tad on the fussy side. Probably because it's red. Kidding...mostly.

Washing it everyday is too much, but when I skip days it is just soooo greasy. Enter dry shampoo...best beauty secret since that day in middle school when I learned that a dab of toothpaste left on overnight can double as a spot treatment in a pinch. Seriously, that was a big deal.

Anyways, I've been a fan of dry shampoo since I first dusted it on my hair but I am in the market for a new {non-aerosol...these are a joke!} brand.

The one I've been using for the last several years has a smell that at first I thought was refreshing but has lately been dabbling in the nauseating arena. Can't have that.

So dish, what is your favorite dry shampoo?

Rolling in it

2011-09-22T13:05:00.000-07:00

Guess who searched through three levels of the parking garage for their car before they remembered they were driving a loaner car. Yeah, like that's a hard guess...of course it was me!

I think I was still all wrapped up in my shoppers high and couldn't think straight. I snagged some incredible clearance deals on bedding at Macy's. See...cute huh?

It's going to be our Spring/Summer bedroom look.

My high immediately disappeared once I got my car repair quote. A whopping $1,400. Really, I ~~almost cried~~ should have just traded it in!

Psht, they can have it. Who needs money to roll around in...I have new bedding for that.

Doing a little bit of reading

2011-09-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

Since I listen to audiobooks during my commute, no matter how busy my life may get I always have time to read. Keeps me sane!

Just finished reading High Five. The books in this series are light, funny and predictable. Book one was made into a movie that is due to be released in January. Even though Katherine Heigl {not sure why, but she bugs me a bit} is playing the lead character of Stephanie Plum, I'm still looking forward to seeing it.

Right now I am reading The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. This story is told in the form of letters exchanged between the characters, which sounds odd, but reads incredibly well. I am loving the characters and am interested by the historical aspect of the book. I am learning loads of new things about this period in time.

Next up is Tortilla Flat. It's a lesser known book of Steinbeck's, but it's been on my list of to-reads for too long and I've just got to cross it off already. He is a bit more of a serious writer than those I usually read, but I've liked what I've read of his so far, so I'm giving this a go.

Read any of these? What did you think of them? What are you reading right now? I can always use suggestions!

Am I the last one to arrive at this party?

2011-09-16T06:33:00.000-07:00

Modern Family is the freakin' funniest show!

I just discovered it and have filled my past few evenings watching season 2 on Hulu Plus. I am determined to buy and watch season 1 over the next few days so I can be all ready for the season 3 premiere next week.

I have to say, I am not a huge fan of Claire. I love the actress that plays her, but am just not fond of her character.

I am still warming up to Jay. I just can't see him and not think Al Bundy. I'm getting there though.

Hands down, my favorite character is Cameron. He always has me laughing. And I love all of his patterned shirt cuffs.

My favorite scene of his is when he leans in to kiss Mitchell, then Mitchell moves and Cam falls over the couch. It had me giggling.

Have you hopped on the Modern Family bandwagon? Who is your favorite character?

Reason 4,895,753 why I should be living in NYC

2011-09-15T06:19:00.000-07:00

Andrea Bocelli, LIVE in Central Park...FOR FREE!!

I should be at this tonight.

This man has the most amazing voice ever.

He literally brings me to tears. And melts my heart just a little bit.

This duet is one of my favorites; give it a listen. It's so beautiful. Really.

See! What did I tell you?!

So, to anyone who is attending the concert tonight - I am 1000% jealous of you. Hope you enjoy yourself. Oh, and tell Andrea I love him.

Lock me up!

2011-09-14T07:24:00.000-07:00

I was digging the Louis Vuitton Lockit PM Devotion clutch when Leighton sported it a few months back, but it's really blown up now that Angie's rocked it.

I definitely think the flashy gold was route to go.

Honestly, I love the idea of this clutch! Yeah, it may not be ideal for dinners and a tad inconvenient during trips to the loo but c'mon, it's not like you can't uncuff it.

Being that it's LV {$$}, I doubt that I'll be owning one anytime soon, but if a more affordable version popped up, I'd be first in line...as long as it was a cute cuff, not the tacky handcuff ones.

Pssst, Marie Claire...this would be a fabulous item for your October Splurge vs. Steal column!!

So, what's your take on the look? Hot or Not?

They're just jealous

2011-09-13T06:29:00.000-07:00

I stopped by Borders to check out their going out of business sale. I thought it'd be genius of me to snag a bunch of kids books on the cheap for my nieces and nephews.

Apparently I wasn't the only one with that idea because all the kids books were gone. Don't worry though, I didn't leave empty handed.

I actually left pretty stinkin' pleased with myself.

Oh yes I did.

The weird looks I got from the cashier and my boyfriend when I got home didn't even damper my mood.

Let 'em hate...they'll all want to be my friend once the puzzle pieces come out.

I know I'm cool.

Remember Me?

2011-09-12T07:41:00.000-07:00

Hey! Long time, no talk.

I had a few overwhelming weeks where blogging completely slipped off my radar.

Our major {and somewhat nightmarish} move is finally over, our house guests are safely back in their own homes, and ~~some of~~ most of our moving boxes are unpacked.

I can breathe normally again {rather than the fire breathing mode I've been in lately...yes, I get a little dragon-ish when I am stressed out☺} and am excited to return to my little bloggy corner of the internets.

Once again, all feels right in the world.

So, what did I miss?

Kristen...kinda, sorta

2011-08-13T08:41:00.000-07:00

I was browsing W online when I came across Kristen Stewarts pics/article for the September issue and was totally confused.

I totally thought the picture was of Lindsay Lohan and was thinking that some little W website guru was going to get a slap on the wrist for posting a Lindsay picture to to the Kristen story.

Well, that was until I clicked through the rest of the shots and determined that it was indeed Kristen, just sporting a very different look. I can't say that I'm a fan of it, yet...I'm still on the fence.

Seriously, just glance at the picture and tell me you do not see Lindsay!

It's official

2011-08-12T07:47:00.000-07:00

The papers have been signed and the McMansion is now all ours!

All that is left to do is landscape the backyard.

Oh yeah, and move all our crap in.

This should be fun. ☺

Two Slice Hilly

2011-08-11T07:09:00.000-07:00

I snuck away for an early AM showing of The Help yesterday.

I was surprised to see a theater full of people there. Guess I wasn't the only one excited to see the movie!

It was great, even if it didn't follow the book exactly. There were are few teary parts and lots of laughing.

I don't know why it struck me as so funny but there is a scene where Two Slice Hilly {Bryce Dallas Howard} is wearing these blue pants that showcase her serious case of super-sweaty-in-the-nether-region-itis.

I know, gross...but a funny kind of gross.

Yeah, the book was better than the movie, but that's nearly always the case. Anyone else seen it? What did you think?

Grape Drink*

2011-08-10T06:56:00.000-07:00

We all have a list titled something like MY RANDOM STUFF THAT I COULD TOTALLY LIVE WITHOUT BUT REALLY DON'T WANT TO. You know, those little things that keep us happy.

We're living out of boxes until the move to the new place and I am constantly finding myself without the little lovies from my list because they are buried in a box somewhere.

First up on my 'list' - Market Pantry Grape Drink Mix.

You know...those little on-the-go packs of powder that you shake up in your water bottle. This is the best mix e-v-e-r. It's like Kool Aid for grown ups, no lie.

Forget all those pricier powders with the brand names or those new liquid dropper thingamajigs...this Target stuff cannot be beat.

It's definitely helped me get my water drinking game to the level that it needs to be. A whole pouch in a water bottle is a little sweet for me though...I usually use 3/4 of it and it hits the spot.

I drink these babies daily and was less that thrilled when my packing helper boxed up the ones in the pantry. Good thing I have them stowed in my purse, my car, my gym bag...they are pretty much all over.

So, do you go au natural with you water or do you spike it with something tasty?

*remember when Dave Chappelle used to be funny? educate yourself on the grape drink. ☺

Fancy Face

2011-08-08T06:50:00.000-07:00

Saw Crazy, Stupid, Love and laughed a lot. Before seeing this I'd never really given Ryan Gosling a second thought, but believe me - he's had a whole lot more than two since!

Love this girl. She's a bit odd in this movie, but I like her quirkiness.

Pretty sure these were the funniest two scenes from the movie.

Funniest nickname of the movie, Fancy Face.

Seen it? Liked it? Were Ryan's abs airbrushed on? Did K. Bacon look old? Thoughts?

Separation Anxiety

2011-07-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

The wedding went off without a hitch and I'm livin' it up with the fam...but I am just a tad bit sad.

You see, I miss my pooch. My guy dropped him off at the dog sitter without me being able to say goodbye and I am sad about it.

I know, that sounds completely ridic, but it is what it is...I miss my little guy.

A little dogsitting fairy snapped this darling pic of him while he was napping and text{ed?} it to me...it'll hold me over until we get home Sunday.

I'm a loser baby...

2011-07-27T07:07:00.000-07:00

I'm headed back home for a few days to see my babiest of baby brothers get hitched.

I swear, he's still like 11 in my mind. In reality he's 22, but still acts 11 on occasion.

About eight or so years ago on one of my visits back home he told me that he missed me a lot but was glad that I didn't live in Utah anymore. His reasoning behind this?

'Since you're not married like all the other girls your age you'd be kind of a loser. In Seattle that's OK.'

Yeah, he's quite the charmer...at least he's honest.

So I'm taking my loser, unmarried self, along with my beau {of a decade plus} to join in the celebration of his joyous big day. Well that and to eat some Chick-fil-a. We don't have them here and it's my favorite thing about going to Utah...I mean besides seeing my family and all.

Back next week...

You can keep your berries

2011-07-25T07:18:00.001-07:00

We took a nice relaxing drive through the country over the weekend and saw a big field of strawberries that had a PICK YOUR OWN sign out front.

Sounds fun, right?

We drove to the end of the row of cars parked on the side of the road and as we pulled over, we looked out the window and saw what was right next to the field of strawberries.

A cemetery.*

And then we kept on driving. We'll be eating none of those strawberries.

*I am kicking myself for not taking a picture!!!

Books, books, books

2011-07-22T06:04:00.000-07:00

I love getting audiobooks from the library!! Without their fantastic {and might I add free} selection I'd hardly ever get any reading done. I ~~never~~ seldom dread having to drive anywhere anymore; rather I find myself looking forward to the next time I get to pop behind to wheel and get my 'read' on.

Last week I finished The Book Thief by Markus Zusak.

There was a lot of hoopla surrounding this book and I honestly don't know why. Sure the story itself was an okay one, but the writing was so random and convoluted. The history aspect of the book was interesting, but not enough to win me over. It was not one of my favorite books and I don't think I would recommend it to anyone.

Right now I am halfway through Sing You Home by Jodi Picoult.

So far, so good. This has been a bit of an emotional one. I can really empathize with all the characters of the story. I have my idea as to how the story will end, or maybe it's just how I think it should end...we'll see! I heard it's being made into a movie...

On deck is The Carrie Diaries by Candace Bushnell.

It's been on my list for a bit and has finally made its way to the top. I don't really have any expectations for it and haven't heard much about it. It's been ages since I've done any SATC watching, so it'll be nice to get wrapped up in that 'world' again.

Read any of these? Thoughts? What are you reading right now?

Indicisive

2011-07-21T05:16:00.000-07:00

I thought I had our new bedding all picked out. I'd deliberated for weeks and finally felt firm in my choice.

Well, something called a-big-freakin'-huge-sale has me changing my mind. Macy's has slashed their prices on a few of my favs and since I'm cheap, I'm giving up my previous choice for one of the two below...I just can't decide which.

Help me.

Should I go with the Marin

or the Cayman

My guy says he doesn't care, he probably wouldn't notice the difference. I think I am leaning toward the Cayman...but I'm not sure.

What's your vote?

Outed by a six year old

2011-07-20T06:38:00.001-07:00

I finally got to see Harry Potter yesterday afternoon!! It was freakin' fan-ta-stic, but that's not the point.

So there we were munching on our super buttery popcorn, waiting for the flick to start. The lights go down and I automatically pull a king size PB Twix out of my purse, take half and give the other half to my friend just as she pulls two bottles of soda out of her bag and passes one to me.

I wait for a loud moment to camouflage the inevitable loud fizzing sound of my bottle opening. Apparently my timing was a tad off because right after I opened my bottle, from behind me I hear a little kid loudly say

'M-o-o-o-m, they brought snacks in their bag. You said it wasn't allowed.'

to which their lovely Mother replied

'Honey, it's not allowed. They are just being dishonest.'

I smirk to my self and plan to just ignore her barb, but good old bestie, with a sly grin on turned around and told the little guy

'No, we're just sneaky.'

And then we went on enjoying the movie, which really was amazing.

OK, be honest...we can't be the only two people who sneak our treats into the theater, right?

It's not like I snuck in a burrito or a hoagie or something {both of which I have seen snuck into a theater before}...just a little bit o' candy and drink. No biggie.

Oh, and what were your thoughts on the final Potter flick?

Summer in Seattle

2011-07-19T12:41:00.000-07:00

It's the middle of July and there are severe heatwaves sweeping the states. In my little corner of the country this afternoon it is 63*, overcast and I'm wearing long pants and a sweater.

Yeah, I know it's cool to complain about the weather, but I'm going to go another way...I freaking love this!!

Seattle has lots and lots of beautiful sunny days, which I enjoy the crap out of, but days like today are my favorite. I am so unbelievably happy that we're having a mild summer...I hope this rides out all the way to Fall. Oh, and then the Fall!! We have lovely Falls here!

So you can all curse this lame excuse of a Summer, but me, I'll be the one walking through the sprinkling rain with a goofy grin on my face. I love my city.

Potter

2011-07-14T12:12:00.000-07:00

I wish there was a theater that played all of the Harry Potter movies in a row and ended with the midnight showing of the last movie. I would totally blow off work for an all day Potter fest!

Sadly, my friendly neighborhood theater isn't cooperating. I instead planned to watch all the HP DVDs this week and then see HP 7.2 this Friday. I've only made it though the first two, so that plan has been foiled as well {jury duty has totally screwed up my week!}.

My current dilemma is whether or not I should just see the final movie on Friday without seeing all the previous films first, or should I finish all the movies leading up to the final and see the final next week {perhaps Tuesday-ish??}.

As I explain this to my guy I am met with an eye-roll which roughly translates into "this is not a real problem and is hardly worth fretting over...oh and by the way, Harry Potter isn't really that big of a deal".

Oh, it's a big deal. Bigger than he knows!

Any of you lucky Muggles catching the midnight show? Lucky.

Planking

2011-07-11T05:17:00.000-07:00

Am I the only one who doesn't quite get the excitement of this whole planking thing?

Yeah, I know this 'game' is all the rage, but I don't get why.

Do you plank? Fill me in.

Packing on the pounds

2011-07-07T05:29:00.000-07:00

Pinterest is making me fat...and I am loving every second of it.

I've worshiped peanut butter since I was a wee babe, so naturally I have an entire board dedicated to it called I LOVE Peanut Butter. I've only made a few of the tasty concoctions so far, but I plan to make my way through the lot of them.

1, 2, 3

You're salivating now, aren't you!?! I do pin other things too...come check me out...let's be friends.

What's your favorite Pinterst pinboard?

By Friday?

2011-07-06T06:23:00.001-07:00

I saw a super clearance deal on this the other day so you know I had to pick it up...mostly as a joke, but a tad out of curiosity.

At the check-out my little old man cashier looked at the DVD, looked at me and did a double eyebrow raise and told me 'oooh, I really like her, 'specially in that shiny catsuit thingy. ay yi yi!'

Once I paid for my goods he sent me off with a 'good luck and have fun with your booty video'.

Funny little man!

I don't see myself sweating it out to this anytime soon...at least not until I can get a spandex bodysuit of my own. ☺

Covers

2011-07-05T05:35:00.000-07:00

Is it just me, or are a lot of the Glee covers better than the originals? Sure the originals are amazing or else Glee wouldn't cover them...but the Glee versions are SO good!!

Check out my favs: Bad Romance, Empire State of Mind and Like a Prayer.

I have to say Bad Romance is my all time favorite Glee cover. What's yours?

The secret to glorious hair. No, really...I'm serious.

2011-06-30T05:29:00.000-07:00

Remember when I whined about my fancy new flat iron being packed away? Well last weekend I decided that I'd stand for frizzy hair no more and finally did something I about it. I spent upwards of an hour digging through all the hurriedly packed boxes in the storage unit and didn't give up until I had this bright pink beauty in my hands.

She was gifted to be from the fine peeps of Misikko a few months ago and I'd been dying to ~~break her in~~ welcome her into my life since I'd laid eyes on her. Shame she was shoved into an unlabeled box by a well-meaning packer {aka the boyfriend}.

Let me tell you, all that waiting and searching through boxes... it was SO worth it. For the past week I've been sporting the softest, smoothest hair! The plates just glide along my hair effortlessly, leaving a nice finished look...no more broken flyaway hairs here!

My friend even curled my hair with it {yes, I need help. I have yet to master the whole 'curl your hair with a flat iron' technique myself} and the curl stayed for two days. She says the width of the iron is perfect for good curl. Yeah, I don't necessarily get it, but to all you gals that know what the crap you're doing with a flat iron, it ought to speak volumes!

In short, my old flat iron's got nothing on this pretty new gal. I see us being friends for a very long time. If you're in the market, Missiko has loads of professional hair straighteners that'll change your life. For reals.

I'll be giving their blow dryers a try here shortly. I've been using a less than efficient one since my last blow dryer met it's end and I am beyond ready to use a proper blow dryer again! Stay tuned.

Girlfriend's got a grudge

2011-06-27T06:49:00.001-07:00

So there is this b!+(h named Karma, and I think I must have really pissed her off.

The evidence:

~my laptop kerplunked on me yesterday...and I start my online class for Summer quarter today
~our builder installed the wrong color of granite counters in our kitchen and changing it will push our move in date back a couple of weeks
~it's literally snowing cotton here and my allergies have got me permanently looking like I've been up all night crying and been punched in both eyes

I've got to make things right with this chica. Anyone know her favorite flowers or coffee drink? I'm going to try and win her over...I cannot take her crap anymore.

Pride

2011-06-26T08:59:00.000-07:00

I'm heading downtown to snag a good spot to watch the parade.

I love this day!

All Horror's aren't the same

2011-06-24T07:30:00.000-07:00

I've got a confession to make: up until last week I'd thought that Little Shop of Horrors and The Rocky Horror Picture Show were the exact same thing.

I vaguely remember seeing a bit of an episode of Head of The Class when I was younger where there was a big flower saying 'feed me!' and I kept waiting for that big flower to appear at I was watching the Rocky Horror episode of Glee {which I loved!} and it never came. Shocker!

Apparently they are two very different story lines. Good to know. I've added them both to my Netflix queue so I can get this whole mess straightened out for good.

Seen them? Which is better?

A twenty can sure turn a day around!

2011-06-23T14:20:00.000-07:00

This morning I swapped out wallets for something a little more summery and lookie what I found stowed away in the coin pocket...

That's right, I'm big time now! Too bad it wasn't a 50. OK, really I'd be just as happy if I'd found a 5! Better believe I rushed to dig through all the coin pockets of my wallets hoping I'd find more dinero. Came up empty handed though.

I've got a coffee date with bestie this afternoon...looks like the java is on me!

Have you ever found forgotten cash?

Don't be THAT girl

2011-06-22T06:37:00.000-07:00

Dinner with some lady friends last night left me wishing I were at the dentist/gyno/pick-your-own-awful-place instead. It was a total drag.

It seemed that all any of them wanted to do was rag on their hubs and talk about how dumb, lazy, irrelevant, etc. they are. No matter how many subject changes I threw out there, it was always dragged back to that negative husband bashing blah.

This crap irks me to no end.

Nothing wrong with a little bit of girl talk, but this kind of chatter is just not okay.

My guy is definitely not perfect, but he doesn't deserve to be torn apart with my friends over a few too many bottles of wine. After each of these little trash talk sessions I find my love and appreciation for him growing more and more. He deserves so much better than that...and I am guessing that their husbands do to.

Not a good look ladies, seriously.

Now am I right or am I right?

Hot or Not? Reed Krakoff's Boar Hair Sandals

2011-06-21T07:01:00.000-07:00

Here's another crazy pair of kicks taken from my 'who the hell wears these?!' file.

Reed Krakoff - Boar Hair Sandals

What? Like you never had the urge to add a little boar hair to something?! ☺

Oh, they come in different colors too.

These shoes are so incredibly different from anything else he's done {with the exception of the horrendous shearling sandal debacle}. It's a true rarity for me to not completely love something of Reed's {cuz he's brilliant!}...it really makes me wonder what influenced him to add these.

On sale or not, I can't see subjecting my super sensitive skin to the likes of rough boar hair for any period of time. Sorry Reed, you've got me saying 'Not' this time.

So, what's your vote...Hot or Not?

What NOT to do when trying on rings

2011-06-20T07:56:00.000-07:00

If the ring is a little snug as it works it way down your finger it means the ring does not fit and you need to take it off.

It does NOT mean the ring will fit, you just need to keep shoving it on.

Turns out, no amount of lotion or soaking in cold water will allow the ring to slip {or even be pried} off.

Yeah, it'll have to be cut off.

Not good...for you, your pride or the ring. Lesson learned. ☺

Right Now

2011-06-15T06:51:00.000-07:00

A little bit of what I'm doing now...

Current Audiobook - A Little Bit Wicked by Kristin Chenoweth

I liked Kristin from her stints on Pushing Daisies, Glee and her role in Bewitched, but I never really knew how big of a career she actually had. This chick is all about theater! I am really enjoying her book, especially since it's being read by her.

Currently Watching - Samantha Who?

Netflix instant streaming has come to my rescue again. I was looking for a new, light series to watch and this show appeared in my suggestions. This is a lot funnier than I'd expected! While Christina Applegate is great in this comedy, her think her friend Dena {played by Melissa McCarthy} is awkwardly hilarious.

Currently Listening to Glee: The Music, Volume 4

Pretty sure this is my favorite Glee CD so far. It's got a good mix of songs that I am constantly singing along to. My favorites on this CD are a tie between Empire State of Mind, Toxic and I Want To Hold Your Hand...and they are all good!

What are you reading, watching or listening to now?

Keep those hands clean!

2011-06-13T07:27:00.000-07:00

I've started packing up a few boxes here and there so that I am not rushing once it's time to move.

Doing this, I've discovered a lot of stuff I didn't know I had...like hand soap. I found about 40 bottles of Bath and Body Works hand soap in our hall closet.

Whenever I'm in there and they have their hand soap on clearance I buy a bag full because they are only like $1.25 and you can never have too much hand soap, right?

Well, if you ask my boyfriend, you can have too much hand soap...and we do. Apparently I am one Bath and Body Works sale away from landing a slot on Hoarders. I just can't pass up a good deal!

Do you have any hoarder in training tendencies?

Not my Friday

2011-06-10T08:32:00.000-07:00

I've had better Friday mornings. To be fair, I've had far worse too!

It's not even 9:00 and I've already had a few too many doozies.

~I chipped a tooth biting on a TicTac on my drive to work
~I accidentally posted {and quickly deleted!} pictures to this blog that were supposed to go on my personal blog
~I pulled a stray string from the side of my blouse and it pulled the seam right open {thank goodness for safety pins!}

I'm just putting on a smile and hoping that the day rights itself out soon. I've got a hot date with my man tonight. OK, not hot...just dinner and a movie. He thinks we're seeing Super 8, but I am secretly pushing for Bridesmaids!

Happy Friday!

Hot or Not - Iris by Alexander McQueen

2011-06-09T07:28:00.000-07:00

I'm a shoes gal. I love 'em, I like 'em, I just wanna have 'em. But there are times when I just look at 'em and think 'Huh, who really wears these?'.

Seriously, about a crazy hundred shoes come to mind when I think about this. I'll take it slow though and just start with one...

Exhibit A - Alexander McQueen's Iris

Yeah, they are pretty to look at, but to wear...I dunno.

So, whatcha thinkin'? Hot or Not?

You done with that?

2011-06-08T12:42:00.000-07:00

A colleague just came in to my office and asked me if he could have the mug I was drinking my tea out of.

Apparently it's the only mug in the office kitchen big enough to 'comfortably accommodate' his entire can of soup. That and he's 'getting pretty hungry for lunch'.

My initial thought was 'C'mon, are you for real?!', but after my light chuckle and an extremely pregnant pause, he was still standing there, soup can in hand, staring at me...and then back to my mug.

Yeah, he was serious. I thought about pointing out that the mug...my mug was half full and I was still drinking it, but in the end I sputtered out a 'whatever' and handed it over.

Weird-o.

Oh, the anticipation!

2011-06-07T06:43:00.000-07:00

I know this may sound silly {my boyfriend is still making fun of me for admitting this to him} but I honestly got chills watching this trailer.

I am so excited for this movie...it really cannot get here fast enough for me! I do wonder where they stop for part one and start up again for part two. Something to think about...

Guess who came to Seattle...

2011-06-05T20:56:00.000-07:00

U2 was in Seattle this last weekend...and they brought Lenny Kravitz.

Now, a fur vest and scarf wouldn't work for anyone else {except for Prince☺}, but it looks more than alright on my man Lenny.

The guys put on an amazing show. Really, best concert I've seen in a long time!

I ♥ U2!

Not quite measuring up

2011-06-04T10:35:00.001-07:00

I just saw the first trailer for the US The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and I gotta be honest...I'm not really impressed.

I don't know if it is because I am such a fan of the Swedish film, or if the trailer just isn't that great. Don't get me wrong, I'll still be there the weekend it opens!

What do you think?

Mini Manolo

2011-06-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

The second I saw this pendant in my June Marie Claire I made a beeline for the computer to ~~buy one~~ get a better look . I have to have one. Unless it turned out to be ridiculously expensive, of course*.

It's just too cute. I'm putting a silver one on my ~~credit card~~ wishlist. C'mon...you know you want one too!

*I totally wrote that just in case my bf is reading...hi honey! no frivolous spending here!

Where has he been hiding?!?

2011-06-01T07:57:00.000-07:00

I somehow ended up at Thor. In 3D.

Yes, this is the last place I ever thought I'd find myself, but it wasn't a complete waste of two hours.

Turns out, Thor be smokin' hot.

For reals.

I don't know what Marvel has in mind, but this is one sequel I could look forward to. Am I right?!

It's somewhere in one of those bazillion boxes

2011-05-31T07:41:00.000-07:00

A few months back I had to ~~throw all our crap randomly into miscellaneous boxes~~ pack in a fashion a little less organized that I would have liked when our move was sprung up on us with zero notice.

Yeah, sure it's been OK living in limbo until our new place is finished, but there have been a few things I packed away that I wish I had remembered which box they had been haphazardly thrown into so I could go dig them back out.

I miss my fancy flat iron.

And more importantly, my hair misses it. Misses it and is pissed off at me for having to look sub-par for months, and has at least one more month to go. Needless to say, I've been sporting the ponytail look a little more often than normal.

I miss my Henri Bendel Eucalyptus candles.

I usually light one in our bedroom about an hour before we go to bed and burn it until lights out. It creates such a relaxed feeling for me, which seriously helps me calm the crap down enough to fall asleep. Sadly they are discontinued so I cannot even buy another to get me by. I've tried a few replacements, but none are measuring up.

I miss my hand mixer.

I don't bake a lot, but more times that I am happy with I have found myself having to mix a batter of some type by hand and my wrist just cannot handle it. Seriously. Last week as I was making 3.7 gazillion cookies I had to take a time out {or seven} and enlist my guy as my back up mixer. I quite nearly popped down to Target to buy a cheap replacement but after all that hand mixing, I just didn't have the energy.

There are a million and a half other little things that we miss throughout the day, but we're not dying without them...just counting down the days until we can all be together again. We're at 47 days left...and counting!!

Right now

2011-05-27T08:54:00.000-07:00

Here's a little gander of how I've been spending my spare time lately...

Fake Reading* Bossypants by Tina Fey
Short, but hilarious. I've always been a Fey fan, but this bumped it up a notch. My favorite section was either when she talked about her honeymoon cruise or her magazine photoshoots...it's a toss up, they are both a riot!
*{how my frenemy refers to audio books}

Listening to Lady Gaga's Born This Way
I got it on Amazon yesterday for only $0.99! Get on over there...it's only $6.99 now. I've only given it one listen though, and need at least two more listen before I can pick out my favorites.

Watching Drop Dead Diva
I'd run out of TV series to watch in my online Netflix queue and in a moment of absolute desperation and boredom I decided to give the show a try...and it's a winner. It's silly, nothing too deep, with a little bit of realness mixed in. I think it's a series I'll stick with.

So, there ya have it. Read/listened to/seen any of these? What did you think?

What are you reading/listening/watching right now?

Glee before Girls

2011-05-25T06:43:00.000-07:00

I ~~blew off~~ rescheduled* plans I'd had with a gal pal last night in order to watch the season 2 finale of Glee.

Some people might say that makes me a crappy friend. I think it means that I am a dedicated and loyal fan.

It was kinda sorta worth it too. I don't like sitting through a whole song unless I know it...and most of the words, which I didn't very often in this episode, so it was only so-so in my book.

Did you see it? What did you think?

*No, I'm not a total jerk...rescheduling worked better for her too...we're still besties. ☺

Cheater

2011-05-24T07:51:00.000-07:00

I just ate four Girl Scout Samoa cookies...for breakfast. Yeah, I know that sounds bad, but to make it even worse, I recorded in myfitnesspal that I only ate two.

I don't know why I keep the food log if I am just going to fudge the entries. Ooh, fudge...that sounds good too. OK, it's possible that I may need an intervention soon.

Are you sure it isn't just Sunday 2.0?

2011-05-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

I've got 'em. A bad case of The Mondays.

Even though I had a four day weekend I didn't accomplish nearly everything I'd hoped. It seems like Monday has come oh-too-quickly and I am still just barely keeping afloat in my never ending to-do list.

I am already counting down until Friday when I can being tackling my tasks again!

I may take a break from whining to hit an afternoon matinee this week though...I've been dying to see The Bridesmaids...that oughta turn my metaphorical frown upside down!

Under where?

2011-05-18T09:22:00.000-07:00

I was in a huge rush as I threw my yoga gear into a gym bag yesterday morning and mistakenly packed black swim bottoms instead of my black yoga undies.

Once I was at class and realized my gaffe I couldn't decide if I should just wear the unders I was already wearing {which are anything but yoga comfy}, sport the swim trunks beneath my clothes or just go commando.

I gave in, skipped class and grabbed a slice at the pizza joint next door instead. I took more care in packing this morning so I should be able to have a comfy yoga session this afternoon.

Which option would you have taken? Keep in mind, this is a really good pizza spot! ☺

Spray paint

2011-05-16T11:15:00.000-07:00

Rather than buying a new set of furniture for the breakfast nook in our new casa, I wanted to use the dining set we've had in our dining room for the past few years. I am way too cheap to buy a new one!

The only problem, the color doesn't match at all...it's a very light wood and all of our new furniture is darker wood. My solution is to paint our existing furniture.

Now, I am super excited to have a solution that will save us so much money, but I haven't got a crafty bone in my body, so I am incredibly nervous that I'll ruin it all.

I've heard that spray paint is an easy way to go, so naturally that is the route I'll be taking. Anyone have some great advice, or easy how-to posts that I can use as my guide?

Really, I am so nervous about this!!

Physique 57

2011-05-13T09:38:00.000-07:00

My friendly UPS man just dropped of a little surprise that I'd forgotten I'd ordered...the Physique 57 DVD set.

I'd heard tons about it and thought it worth a try. Kelly Ripa is supposedly real into it and well, she looks awe.some.

Yeah, I am not expecting any Kelly-like results {right off the bat, at least ☺}, but I was thinking of taking my measurements or maybe some before pics to measure my progress. Now, I just have to stick with it!

Have you tried Physique 57 yet?

You don't wanna mess with this

2011-05-11T06:05:00.000-07:00

I finally got around to seeing the movie Hanna last night, which was just so-so btw. I was set on seeing it the second I saw the preview. There is something about seeing a girl being totally kickass that I just LOVE.

The movie made me think about some of my favorite tough chicas...

Sydney Bristow

Lisbeth Salander

Pretty much ANY Angelina Jolie character, my favs being Fox, Evelyn Salt, Laura Croft and Jane Smith

Am I right?!

Seeing this ladies in action always makes me want to ~~kick somebody in the face~~ get my butt to the gym.

Did I leave your favorite off the list?

Theater Room, Schmeater Room

2011-05-10T06:57:00.000-07:00

The building of our new house is moving along quite nicely.

Now I just have to worry about decorating the place. At first I thought it sounded like so much fun, but now I am realizing that it's quite overwhelming.

I am presently stumped with the theater room. I am at a loss for how to decorate it.

I want it to be a fun room with a theme, but not necessarily a movie theme.

Everybody decorates their theater room in the movie posters and a popcorn machine look. While I think it's a fun idea, it's not what I want to do.

So yeah, I know what I don't want, but not what I want.

I know you creative readers must have loads of suggestions, right?! Spill 'em!

Cruising

2011-05-09T04:46:00.000-07:00

I pulled a few random vacation shots to share.

I've been putting off organizing them since I took nearly 3000 of them...not counting all of the underwater camera shots that I have to develop!!

Here is a tiny taste of where I disappeared to last month...

fortress ~ Panama Canal crossing

amazing sunset ~ fruit carts galore

provocative fountain ~ sawdust rug

awesome hotel name ~ this is what tequila comes from

Mayan ruins ~ homemade tortillas...yum!

shopping! ~ waterfront statue ~ amazing sawdust rug

We're already planning our next cruise...can't wait!

Books make you smart

2011-05-06T11:19:00.000-07:00

My reading, er I guess I should say listening {audio books rule!} repertoire has been compiles of a jumble of genres lately.

I've recently finished listening to Dragonfly in Amber, which is the second book in the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon.

This is such a good series, but I will say that they are a tad long. There is a huge waiting list for the next book in the series, so I am just trying to be patient as I wait my turn {hurry, hurry, hurry!!}

I'm nearly finished listening to Deception Point by Dan Brown.

I originally picked this one because my guy and I were going to be spending a prolonged period in the car and I wanted to find an audio book that he could not only tolerate, but enjoy...and it's been a success. I've actually liked it a bit too. We've only got a few tracks left on it, but I think I've got the ending pretty much figured out.

On deck I've got Linger by Maggie Stiefvater.

It's the second book in a series of three that is more of teen read, I believe. It's got some werewolves in it but no vampires...I'll make do though. The first book, Shiver was OK, but not great. I'll ride the whole series out though, I'm no quitter.

What great {or not-so-great} books have you read lately?

It's really all about the guac

2011-05-05T07:23:00.000-07:00

I've got big Cinco de Mayo plans with the girlies tonight at The Matador...super yummers!

Then my guy and I may share an mini evening margarita using this fab tequila we scored from a little tequila distillery while on vacation. Yes, you read that right...we'll have to share it. We're both lightest of lightweights when it comes to the sauce. We share a drink, don't even finish a third of it and we're both wasted. Kinda lame, I know. ☺

So honestly, I am just using this day as an excuse to overindulge on guacamole and fish tacos and not feel guilty about it.

How are you celebrating?

¡Olé!

Smeeps

2011-05-04T07:50:00.000-07:00

Wondering what you can do with all those extra Peeps that are hiding in your pantry leftover from Easter {or maybe even from last Easter}?

Um, don't act like you don't have any...we all do.

Go ahead, dig them out...and make some Smeeps.

Mmmm, good.

Don't worry, those little chickies didn't feel a thing...they are just happy to share their sweet gooeyness with you.

Festive, eh?

Miss me?

2011-05-02T08:56:00.001-07:00

We're back.

We've got darker skin {more freckles!}, fuller suitcases, lighter pockets, super heavy lids and lots o' memories.

I'll share some pics after I dig my camera out and catch up on my zzz's. Oooh, I can't even fathom looking at my overflowing Google Reader yet!

Man, it's good to be home.

Sail Away

2011-04-13T07:14:00.001-07:00

I am frantically doing some last minute packing for our cruise we fly out for tonight. I am a bit stressed, but more excited.

See you all in May. I'm sure I'll have loads of great pics and stories to share.

¡Adios!

The real deal

2011-04-10T08:52:00.000-07:00

This morning I'm attending a class on how to make pasta from scratch.

My tummy is grumbling just thinking about it. The fresh stuff is SO delicious!

I'm a little worried that I'll be looking forward to snarfing the goods down at the end of class so much that I won't pay attention to the process.

Either way, I'll be leaving a full and happy gal.

Pig-a-licious

2011-04-08T06:41:00.001-07:00

A colleague of mine recently brought their brand new teacup pig in to the office for a visit and I gotta say, it was the cutest darned thing I'd ever seen with a snout.

I don't know how popular these little guys are, but a little bit of m wanted to get their breeders contact info.

I did in fact resist, but can't help but let my mind wander there every now and again.

I emailed my guy a pic of me with the cute little oinker with 'say no to pork, adopt a piggie' in the subject line but never got a reply back from him.

Guess it's a No then?

It's my uterus talking

2011-04-07T06:16:00.000-07:00

There are a few little baby girls that will be entering the world soon by way of some of my friends and family. This has led me on many a baby girl shopping sprees.

Only problem is I keep wanting to hoard the cute little outfits for the day I have a little lady and not give any of them away. Yes this is absolutely ridiculous, but it's happening anyways.

Really, can you blame me?

{1,2,3,4}

I'm debating getting knocked up right now so I can put all this darling-ness to some good use. OK, kidding...mostly.