So mad, I could spit, kinda... Blog Comments not working

Have you tried posting a blog comment and not have it show up?

Have you tried entering my contest and are mad because well, you can't because the comments aren't working?

Something may be broken on my blog, and I am currently working with blogger to get it fixed BUT, I need to find out as much information as possible.


If you have tried to comment on my blog, and it has not shown up, it would be amazingly helpful if you could e-mail me or reply to my on twitter.  Here is how to get in touch with me...

My e-mail is going to be written in code, so when you go to e-mail me take out the paranthesis okay (This prevents spam, new fact to stick in your hat)?  Got it? good.  alyson(.)woods(@)gmail(.)com

My twitter name is alysonisneat  spelled just like that.

All right, I am incredibly sorry for any sort of inconvenience this has caused.  If anything I am so embarassed that this has happened.  I am just as frustrated as some of you are, but let's work together to get this problem taken care of!  Thank you!

British Navy

 

Do you have your go to colors that you just know will look great on you, no matter how you match them all together?  Although this outfit is mostly neutrals, I love how it all came together. I have been dying to try wearing knee socks with something, however, the weather is not cooperating too well.  Yesterday, I paired them over some nude fishnets and with some suede heels. 

This is my outfit from yesterday and today, I am feeling a bit under the weather.  My drink of choice is tea and chloraseptic spray.  I think its just a little bit of a cold, but I'm definitely feeling its effects. Don't forget to check out my giveaway!

Jacket: Old, Urban Outfitters

T-shirt: Target

Silk Scarf: courtesy of Lola Jane Vintage (more about the care package soon)

Skirt: 5 years ago, Gap

Belt: Old, Target

Nude Fishnets: Vera Wang, Kohl's

Socks: Target

Shoes: Anne Klien, Thrifted, Clothing Xchange

Bracelet: ModCloth, Crimson Ghost Bracelet

Good-NESS!  I didn't realize how much I had on yesterday!

GIVE-A-WAY - The Better World Shopping Guide #2

In honor of the huge mile stone that was hit yesterday regarding my full year of going without shopping, I wanted to do a give a way that was a little purposeful.  You see, something I don't exclusively talk about on my blog is that I am a pretty eco-concious person, and this year of not buying clothing is more than just an excercise in self control and ridding myself of harmful coping mechanisms, but also a little bit of an exploration on what it means to shop smartly. 

"Every dollar you spend is a vote for the world you want to live in." 

I have no idea who to credit with this quote, but its incredibly powerful.  Maybe its because I am 25 and making my own decisions about how I want to live and how I want to spend my money, or maybe its an overall awareness happening in the United States... this I don't know, but I want to give my money to companies that are responsible. 

First off, I try to buy locally as much as possible.  My rule of thumb is, if I could drive to this place... then I'll buy from them over another brand.  This isn't just with food, but with other stuff as well.  I no longer use typical detergent, instead I use soap nuts (I would love to answer any questions but in my personal opinion, I LOVE THEM.  My laundry has never been softer and my skin does not get irritated from harsh perfumes).  Another one is my toothpaste comes from Murfreesboro and a lip balm I use is made from beeswax that was harvested in middle Tennessee, etc.  Yes, I still buy from companies that do not have a great track record because this change is only beginning.  However, I wanted to equip someone with the ability to be an eco-concious shopper with this give-a-way!

Today I am giving a way a copy of Dr. Ellis Jones book The Better World Shopping Guide #2.  This pocket sized book grades companies and corporations that provide all sorts of goods and services.  Whether its a grocery store or an airline, car company or *gasp* clothing manufacturer, this book has gives it a grade of A+ through F. 

In order to enter the give away all you have to do is comment on this post with one way that you can be a more eco-concious consumer by 11:00 PM Central Standard Time February 27, 2010.   Please leave your e-mail address, twitter handle, or a link to your blog so that I can get in touch with you.  This give a way is open to US residents only.

Get another entry by retweeting about this give a way on twitter.  You can follow me on twitter at @alysonisneat.

Good luck everyone!  And again, thank you so much for being my reader, and for commenting and encouraging and just believe in me.  Even when I hear from my friends that they read my blog, I am just so thankful that they read it.  It means so much to me.  More give-a-ways to come this week, including one for my fellow size 9 shoe wearers :)!

Baby Sitter's Club

 

  

I am already beginning to fail at one of my I must list items.  The upkeeping of my fingernails has been such a pain in the butt especially when I can't find the time or energy to take off my polish....  That's a lie, I'm just lazy.  

This outfit reminds me of something Claudia from the Baby Sitter's Club would wear.  Bright pinks and sparkles and lace.  It was totally fun to mix all of these things together.  A fun story about my necklace, I won it!  I won something!  I was so excited!  I am a participant in the Modcloth Mobile give away that they do every once in a while.  I answered correctly to their last question (Michael Scott was the answer).  And the sent me this cute necklace.

Sweater: Given to by a friend

Belt: Buffalo Exchange

Skirt: I made it!

Tank: Urban Outfitters

Necklace: Courtesy of ModCloth Mobile Give-a-way.  

Tights: Urban Outfitters

Shoes: Urban Outfitters

Life: Urban Outfitters... just kidding, I'm just wearing a lot of urban outfitters today.

Give away is starting today.  I meant to start it yesterday but good grief the day got away from me. 

ONE HUNDRED DAYS WITHOUT SHOPPING!

I have gone 100 days without buying clothing.  Today officially marks that day.  And to celebrate I will be doing a few give-a-ways this week!  I am so excited to share some of the things that I personally picked out and purchased from my own pocket for my readers.

What do I think about making it 100 days without buying clothing?  Well, I think its amazing!  I never throught I would be able to make it 30 days, let alone 100.  The fact that here I am with 100 days behind me and two more seasons to go, and a whole closet full of stuff I haven't been able to wear yet because I'm waiting for that warmer weather...  So excited.  I definitely don't want to say that I got this in the bag, and yes it is still frustrating when I see an amazing dress on sale and I cannot buy it.  However, there is a huge benefit to just being able to say no.

I just want to shout from the roof tops or something, or just shout...


100 days!!

So, how am I going to celebrate? Well, I am wearing a skirt that I made, so that is a great way to celebrate.  I had hot chocolate before coffee this morning.  And who knows, maybe eat some Mexican food today. 

Parisian is not persian

 

I have been craving a striped shirt for weeks, months, etc.  Well I finally just ganked one from my friend Adrienne.  It really is great to borrow from your friends when  you really are just craving something that you don't have.  My former roommates and I would borrow clothes all the time, it was a great closet extender!

Let me explain the title of this post.  I grabbed lunch with Sam on Friday and here was our conversation:

Alyson:" So.... Do I look Parisian today?"

Sam: "Ummm... Not really."

Alyson: "You don't think I look French?"

Sam: "You look French but you don't look Persian"

Alyson: "I said Parisian, not Persian, ya know like Paris..."

Sam: "You said persian"

So here I am looking very French.

Top: Borrowed

Jeans: Express

Belt: Way old, Target

Shoes: Old Navy

What Inspires Me - Blog It Forward

Today I am participating in a Blog it Forward mashup about what inspires me.  A few weeks ago Victoria from sfgirlbybay put a calling out to bloggers to see who would be interested in doing a mash up of what inspires them, boy was she surpised when a whooping 300 bloggers replied.  I am so thrilled to be a part of this.  Thank you so much to Brooke from always time for tea for introducing me on Friday.

Now, I want to get pretty specific about the things that inspire me and allow you to step into my world just for a short moment.  The world I live in is full of inspiration and emotion.

Flash Mob Marketing

I am a total sucker for a good flash mob.  For some reason the dancing, the singing, everything literally causes me to get emotional.  Not kidding.  I cry.  I get a big dopey smile on my face, and I cry.  I have identified that it is because so many different people are all able to connect with one another because of a similar experience.  When they grow old they will always have this memory of when they saw this giant musical dance number performed on their way to work or that they participated in a giant Beatles sing a long.  I have really enjoyed some of the recent flash mobs but I think that the "Hey Jude" one is my favorite.  This video really does just make me cry!



Seasons

I get really excited when the seasons begin to change, because I begin to change.  Winter is a darker period for me.  I turn inward, and take this time to dive deep into my soul and search out myself.  Spring brings a lightness and excitement, shaking off that winter soul searching and coming out changed and new.  Summer is laid back, and I turn into a little hippie child.  I braid my hair, wear flowy skirts, and often walk around without shoes on.  Finally, fall is a celebration of beauty and of the chill, fresh, air.  This year as I have begun to be more mindful of my feelings and emotions, I have tuned into the fact that I am ready for spring and that sunshine and warmth elicit positivity.

Love

Lately, I am beginning to deal with what it means to be a friend to someone.  Overall, when I look back on my life, I regret not being a better friend to people when they needed it.  Because of the love I share for my friends and family, this inspires me to be a better person, a better daughter, a better friend.  I want to let my friends know how deeply I love them and that if it was not for them, how drastically different my life would be.  I want to a better job of showing love to others.  Whether its giving a wave to people, or being sincere when I ask how people are.  I started this blog, yes because I love fashion but also because of the tons of friends that I have lost connection with over the years.  This blog is my way of reaching out, putting my life out there in hopes that I can reconnect with them.  The great thing is that it has, and that makes me so happy.  It inspires me everyday.

Sam

As I write this part, I'm going to get really really mushy.  Sorry.  I have mentioned several times about how such an inspiration Sam is to me.  You see, Sam is a musician and, in my unbiased opinion, a GREAT musician.  His motivation for achieving his dreams, inspires me to achieve mine.  He does not put up with my excuses but he will listen to them.  He speaks truth to me, when I believe too many lies.  He gets excited with me when people comment on my blog, or when I make something, or when I just talk about how excited I am to start something.  We dream together; we dream limitlessly.

What inspires you?  What spurs you on to keep going?  What makes you jump for joy and dance around the room?  What makes your heart glow deep inside?

I now pass this torch onto the next in line, ami ami .  Continue to follow all of the bloggers participating in the mash up by going to sfgirlbybay blog it forward.

Fashion Tip Friday - How to find a good vintage store

One of my favorite things to do when I go vacation or out of town is to check out vintage and thrift stores.  It is difficult to find the good ones though, especially when you do not have a native around.  So, how do you find some of the best thrift and vintage stores without really knowing the town?  I wanted to share a few useful tips on hunting out the best thrift stores in a new town.

Know the names
You really cannot fail with Buffalo Exchange.  They always have a great selection, are always on trend, and I personally have a hard time walking out of the store without grabbing something.  Other great names to recognize are Plato's Closet (especially if you like more juniors type apparel), Goodwill (duh), Saver's (select locations), and Salvation Army.  Usually when I end up going out of town, I always hit up a Buffalo Exchange.  Hopefully, you can also find some great stores in the same area.

Vintage or Thrift Organizations
In a few cities, the local vintage and thrift stores will form some sort of loose organization so that you can find more of the same type of stores.  For example, in Austin, Texas, if you walk into a vintage store you will most likely find a little green brochure featuring several vintage and antique stores throughout the city.  Look out for these throughout your journey's as well as fashion related literature that may be in locally owned periodicals or fliers.

Scour the internet
The biggest one is searching the internet.  I could write an entire how-to on how to search for thrift stores on the internet however, I am going to try and sum up as much as I can so I don't bore you to death.

Go into Google maps and bring up the city you will be visiting.  For example, let's use Chicago, IL.

Once you have searched for the city, you will be taken to a page that looks similar to this.  Click on Search nearby and a drop down menu will appear.  Type in thrift stores and hit search.  Not only will this help you find places close to where you are staying but also help you have a plan of attack.

Here is your list of vintage stores.  One of the great things that google maps offers is a reviewing function.  I really cannot tell you how important these are and just want to say if you end up going to one of these places, please use some of the following sites that I am about to mention to review them.  You will not only be helping out the company but also help out fashionistas like you who are searching for good thrift and vintage.

Once you have a list, you will want to cross reference some of these places using sites like Yelp, City Search, and Fashion Dig.  All of these sites allow anyone to post information about the places on them.  They will include reviews, websites for these places, locations, phone numbers, and even hours of operations.  You may also be able to find a few gems that may not have shown up on the google maps search. 

Another great resource was started by Jessica (of What I Wore) and her fiancee Adam .  This site is called Vintage Where?

Vintage Where is mostly user operated with the opportunity for you to update your favorite vintage stores as well as browse for stores in other cities.  The site is a breath of fresh air when you may be heading to a city and you have no idea where to start.

Ask people.
Find fashion bloggers or just locals to that area and ask them their favorite places as well as any gems that may be hidden and off the beaten path.  You never know what you will find.

How do you find vintage and thrift stores in your own towns?  I am pretty familiar with the areas of Nashville that have great vintage, and will frequent these places (not as much since I'm not shopping).  I do have my favorite stores and my favorite areas of town that usually have a lot of really great finds but I am also always on the lookout for some hidden gems.

Thank you for all of your support and encouragement.  I am so thankful for the comments and the love.  Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Remember my relationship with kelly green?

 

I really love this color.  I can't say it enough, I love this color.  This outfit was incredibly inspired by Rebecca from The Clothes Horse.  She wore something very similar and posted about it a few days ago.  This dress is one of those summer and spring staples.  It is great to wear to bridal showers, dates nights, concerts.  It is so comfortable and to be honest I spent WAY too much money on it back in the I-was-spending-way-too-much-money-on-clothing days. 

Dress: Pangea (Nashville Boutique)

Jacket: H&M

Tights: Target

Shoes: Nine West, DSW

I am so excited about today's fashion tip Friday and cannot wait to share it with you! 

A tribute to friendship

I like to think that I am pretty open that I tend to be an emotional wreck at times.  Because I do.  But, I am always thankful for the friends that have a kind word, a hug, or a listening ear when I really need it.

Sam introduced me to this band a few months ago and I am so excited because they are playing here in Nashville soon.  They are called Dawes and here is a video of them covering one of my favorite Beatles songs.

Just wanted to share this with all of my readers, friends, and family.  Thanks for putting up with me sometimes.

How did I walk out of the house like this?

Lumpy ponytail? Check
Bra straps showing? Check
Horrible lighting? Check
Exhausted look on face? Check

 

What is with the ugg face?  I didn't take a gander at these pictures yesterday and I should have because I would not have let myself walk out of the house like this!  A mirror can only do so much and you know what...  I thought I looked good.  Lesson learned, upload your pictures the day of that way you can tell if you need to retake them or not.  Sometimes its hard being your own photographer (which I'm not a photographer at all, I just own a camera).  

I was absolutely exhausted yesterday.  I went to bed at 9:30 last night.  However, I did attempt another batch of cheese enchiladas for dinner last night.  On my must list it says that they must be good.  They were a huge improvement but not really a step up from melting cheese in a tortilla.  I need a way to make sure the tortillas do not get too soggy, but also so they don't break.  Any suggestions from foodies out there?

Cardigan: Urban Outfitters

Tank: Urban Outfitters

Scarf: American Apparel

Jeans: Paper Denim

Shoes: Toms

Note to self, take a very critical eye to your outfit today. 

Road Trip, Lawrenceburg, KY

When you live in Nashville, it is always such a treat to take a little road trip out of town.  Road trips are one of the main things I miss about my college days and living in Texas.  I can honestly say I went on a road trip of some sort at least once a month if not twice.  I love discovering small towns with great places and fun things to do.  When Sam revealed to me that for Valentine's Day he wanted me to take him to the Wild Turkey Distillery, I was thrilled.  I love planning little road trips and finding fun stuff to do in different towns.  Yesterday we set out at 9 AM for Lawrenceburg, KY part of what is referred to as "The Bourbon Trail" .  I will be honest, I am not really a bourbon drinker, however Sam is.  For his birthday last year, I got him a bottle of Noah's Mill.  He likes to drink Wild Turkey, Bulliet, etc.  We arrived in Lawrenceburg around lunch time.  I had researched a light lunch option and a heavier lunch option.  I am glad we went with the lighter lunch option because it was amazing.  If you have the chance, please have the grilled cheese at Talk of the Town... it is amazing.

From there we headed to the Wild Turkey Distillery.  Unfortunately we were not able to go on a tour because of the snow.  There was quite a bit of treacherous snow on the ground, as you can see here:

And, I don't post a lot of pictures of Sam, but I asked his permission and here he is.  In the background of the picture you can see where the hold all the barrels allowing the bourbon to age.  I am all knowledgable about bourbon now because I watched a video.

From here we made our way down the road the the Four Roses Distillery where he had the chance to take a few outfit photos of me.

 

  

After I took these I asked Sam, "Do I look cold in these pictures?"  He said of course not and you know what, you would have no idea that right across from me was this:

That is supposed to be a fountain... yeah.  It looks more like frozen cauliflower Christmas tree decoration.

Overall, we had SO much fun.  I want to post more about the dinner Sam cooked for me that night, but that will be a part two.  I wanted to make sure that I was wearing something warm and comfortable.  However, I have been so sick of wearing long sleeves.  After looking at images of Elizabeth from Delightfully Tacky wearing short sleeves in Alaska none the less, I said to myself, "I will wear short sleeves."  I am actually really glad I did because it got rather warm in the car, and I stayed pretty comfortable.  Even though it was in the 20s, I stayed pretty warm.  I was stoked to have the chance to wear this tank top from Lizzy Brookes that my roommate bought for me last fall or summer.  I love the attention to detail Lisa from Lizzy Brookes puts into the clothing she makes.  And it is all incredibly beautiful.

Headband: Target
Black Shirt: Urban Outfitters
Tank: Lizzy Brookes, etsy
Belt: Thrifted Buffalo Exchange
Jeans: Express
Socks: Target
Boots: Anthropologie
Coat: YesStyle.com

Why the gold belt you might ask?  It was Fat Tuesday and Mardi Gras yesterday, that's why.

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Happy Valentine's Day & New Feature - Yo, I Love

Happy Valentine's Day!!!!  I have yet to officially celebrate this holiday.  On the actual day I watched way too much men's luge competition.  Then met up with a friend, whose husband also was waiting on all the lovey dovey couples, had some delicious drinks at Mirror and then went to see Valentine's Day.  We were both so excited because we both share a mutual love of Jennifer Garner.

You might have noticed that I nixed my "Blogs I Follow" feature because I felt it would be smarter to actually just put everyone in the blog roll.  Well, I would like to start a new feature on here called "Yo, I love!"  I want to feature people, places, and things that I love.   And the first of these belongs to Mrs. Garner herself!

I was a huge Felicity watcher back in the day and I remember Jennifer Garner, but it really wasn't until her role as Sydney Bristow in Alias that I started to love her!  How could you not love a girl who is beautiful and could seriously kick major butt?  Maybe I should add learning to scissor kick off a table to my "I must" list?

I am currently taking a day trip as this post goes up, but I hope everyone has a wonderful Tuesday!

Still waiting to celebrate Valentine's Day

 

  

My boyfriend works in the restaurant industry, which means that most "romantic" holidays we do not get to spend together.   I am simply just pretending that yesterday was not Valentine's Day and that my Valentine's Day isn't happening until tomorrow.  I am super excited to spend the whole day with my love.  

Because of the weather, I am staying at home today.  I am definitely not wearing these shoes that I have on in this picture.  Also, a note about this outfit.  I am not crazy about it.  To be honest, when it comes to my body I have just a few issues that I struggle with dressing.  I have incredibly muscular arms and legs.  This makes it really difficult to find short sleeve blouses and skinny jeans.  Most blouses short sleeve blouses will cut into the biceps, and then most jeans will have to be stretched to their limit to go over my thighs.  If the jeans are skinny, then I have to make sure they fit my calves.  Sam lovingly refers to them as "gorilla calves" (which I really have no problem with.  I'm pretty proud of my arms and legs.  I can't wait for summer so I can wear shorts and dresses and show off how stacked my legs are). That is another reason why I just wanted to start making my own clothes.  

Blouse: Forever 21

Jeans: American Eagle

Socks: Target

Shoes: Nine West

Belt: Target

Fashion Tip Friday - How to dress for an interview

One of my super amazing sweet friends has an important interview to go to and came to me asking, "What do I wear?"  The problem is the interview says business suit.  Now, what do you do when you do not have a business suit?  Here are just some pieces of advice on how to look professsional and polished without looking like you stepped out of a womens suit factory.

Of course you will want to keep in mind hat you will want to ere on the side of conservative.  This may not be your best moment to bust out those hot red pumps or bright yellow tights.  Keep things looking classic and smart.  For some major inspiration check out the women's work lookbook at Banana Republic or J.Crew.  If you can, try to copy one of those looks using my guide on how to copy someone's look. 

Separates are going to be your key.  Try and dress in the same color pallate or even in the same color.  If you go for black, you will want to make sure that your blacks match and that one hasn't started to fade.  Your key items will be a blazer (or jacket), blouse, skirt or pants.  Don't have a blazer? Don't worry.  Head to the little boys department at Good Will and you should be able to pick one up on the cheap.  It will also look perfectly on trend for the season. Wear black socks, or nude trouser socks, and if you are wearing a skirt, wear hose.  I know it seems out dated but so is making someone wear a suit to work.  Besides the last thing you want your interviewer to notice, is the huge bruise on your shin from getting out of the bathtub that morning (I always hit my shins on the side of the tub, never fails). 

Use the old accessorie rule; take one off before walking out the door.  As I have said, be conservative.  Be yourself, but be conservative. 

Finally just a couple of small rules that I have picked up in my years of theater performance, job interviewing, and what not...

• Sew your pockets shut.  Putting your hands in your pockets portrays shyness and lack of confidence.  Even if its just a few safety pins or whip stitches, keep your hands out.
• Check your nails.  If the polish is chipping, go ahead and take it off.  
• Wear lipstick or gloss.  You want to make a positive impression, and having a stellar smile will definitely help.
• Pull your hair back.  You don't want to be fidgeting with your hair and tucking it behind your ears or twirling it as you are talking.  Again, a confidence issue.
• Don't chew gum during an interview, spit it out before you walk in the building.
• Turn your phone off (duh).
• Breathe, when we are nervous we often tend to forget to breathe.  Passing out is not a good first impression.

This may seem odd to put out there but I happen to be excellent at resumes and job interviews.  I have interviewed tons of places for tons of things, as well as, lots of speaking events in high school and college.  But if you have any questions regarding job hunting etiquette and what not, please send me an e-mail, I would love to advise you!

I feel like a 1940's Pin Up

 

  

Thank you all so much for all of your comments and support with my "I Must" list.  I am so excited to start knocking things out on that list.  One thing I forgot to add is to find some killer red lipstick.  I love the shade I am wearing in these pictures but its a cheap tube of L'Oreal that I picked up when I was in a pinch.  So I'd like to become a pro of red lipstick.   I want to find the perfect shade for me and wear it a lot.  

This outfit is definitely inspired by Zoe Deschanel.  The whole look is inspired by her really.  I put hot rollers in my hair, put in a headband, wearing fun chevron-like fishnets and black mary jane pumps that despite their 3 inch heel are so comfortable.  Also, in case you can't tell I am totally in love with my new glasses.  Interestingly enough, the "skirt" is actually a summer swim suit cover up that is supposed to be worn as a skirt, but I wear it as a strapless dress.  It is my go to easy summer dress because it is so comfortable and really chic.  I am actually wearing it as a strapless dress with the top over it...  actually I just checked and its totally fallen to my waist so its a skirt.  :)  I am really jonesing for warmer weather.  Its in the low 30s here in Nashville and I am craving 60 and sunny with a breeze.  How about sundown, 60, porch, breeze, beer, sundress, friends, grilling, and I'm getting ahead of myself. 

Top: Anthropologie (sale section)

Skirt: Target (swim suit cover up)

Tights: Urban Outfitters

Shoes: Nine West, DSW

Fashion tip Friday coming up later this afternoon! 

The "I Must" List

 

my be. tattoo - to remind myself to take time to just be.  My friend A and I got them together, such a sweet reminder of our friendship

A few of my friends and I have started a community group where we get together and share life with one another.  Sam says we all get together and cry... but its more than that.  We get together and encourage one another in our personal lives, our spiritual lives, and in the lives of one another.  I can honestly say, as I have shared many times at group, that I do not know where I would be without the intervention of these women in my life.

On that note, I wanted to share something with my readers, friends and family, my must list.  The name must list stems from a passage in Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke.  To set up the book, a 20 year old poet writes letters to Rilke for the purpose of obtaining advice from Rilke on his poems.  The great thing is Rilke is only 28 years old, and with the knowledge he is sharing with this poet, it is also things that he is learning and growing through himself.  It is a really great read and definitely available at your local library.

I want to share this passage on here because I have been rolling it around in my head for weeks ever since we shared this at group:

You ask whether your poems are good.  You send them to publishers; you are disturbed when certain publishers reject your attempts.  Well now, since you have given me permission to advise you, I suggest that you give all that up.  You are looking outward and, above all else, that you must not do now.  No one can advise and help you, no one.

There is only one way: Go within.  Search for the cause, find the impetus that bids you write.  Put it to this test: Does it stretch out its roots in the deepest place of you heart?  Can you avow that you would die if you were forbidden to write?  Above all, in the most silent hour of your night, ask yourself this: Must I write?  Dig deep into yourself for a true answer.  And if it should ring its assent, if you can confidently meet this serious question with a simple, "I must," then build your life upon it.  It has become your necessity.  Your life, in even the most mundane and least significant hour, must become a sign, a testimony to this urge.

I love how he phrases that one line, "in the most silent hour of your night...".  Does anyone else wake up in the middle of the night thinking, "Dude... I gotta do this."  I do.  I really do.

The past few weeks I have been making a list, a list of things that I wake up in the middle of the night, I wake up in the middle of the day and say, "I must".  I wanted to share this list and share this idea because I want to know what YOUR must list is.  My goal is to do these before the end of the year.

In no particular order:

• make good cheese enchiladas - attempt 1, failed, attempt 2 will happen soon
• go to a yoga class - done, want to go to more
• sew something on my serger
• find a yoga teacher that I like
• pay off my discover card
• go through all the exhibits at The Art Institute in Chicago - trip planned in May
• make 10 pieces of clothing - 1 down
• make a suit for Sam
• start an etsy shop - with what, I don't really know
• get another tattoo - a yellow rose on my shoulder
• write one piece of poetry a month
• make another summer reading list
• dye some hair -not all, my hair is my natural color and I'd like just a cluster of some color somewhere on my head (Amanda?)
• have six meaningful/getting to know you coffee dates, dinner dates or lunch dates with people I don't know
• make it to at least six Monday Night Dance parties at the 5 spot
• find a church in Nashville
• wear heels once a week
• keep my fingernails groomed - I am always picking at hang nails and messing with my nails
• host a clothing swap
• visit a farm
• make pizza at home - good pizza not crappy
• go a week without wearing pants - maybe two because a week seems easy
• get a spray tan - laughing out loud at this one, f'real
• start a liquor cabinet - for entertaining purposes mainly not for being drunk
• once a month, go one day with no phone, TV, computer
• ride my bike once a week - March through October
• wear a ridiculously short skirt or dress in public, no tights
• cook a whole chicken
• bake a loaf of bread
• plant a small garden
• go two months without buying anything - not in a row, or maybe in a row
• have friends over for dinner at least six times
• spend one whole day out at the park - March through October
• at the end of my shopping hiatus, only buy clothing that is thrifted or vintage until the end of December - Twitch Vintage, Leproust Vintage, and Lizzy Brookes I might be buying from you three a lot.

There it is.  It is a little daunting to be putting all of this out there, eek!  Oh, and I am totally open to doing any of these together, with another person.  Let me know if you are in the Nashville-ish area and I'd love to get together!

What are you must lists?  Do you think this is crazy?

An ode to all the boys I crushed on in high school

 

I have always been attracted to guys that are WAY cooler than I am (BTW Sam is WAY way WAY cooler than I am).  In high school I crushed on the guys that were into Weezer and just really great music.  I was really too shy, and plus this douchey guy I dated was all somewhat friends with some of these people for a short amount of time.  Anyways, this outfit is my tribute to that time in my life where I wished I had the balls to dress like this, but didn't because I was lame (Well I did dress like this kinda..)

Maybe this is because last night I folded my laundry and gawked at the line up to Bonnaroo to Raditude (the latest Weezer album) and danced around in my new glasses...  Oh, yes, these are the new glasses.  I went with a pair of Ray Bans with the rivets on the side.  They are tortise on the inside and then an espresso brown.  I LOVE THEM.

 

Sweater: given to my by A, J.Crew (I love this sweater and yes I wear it once a week)

T-shirt: Beatles Abbey Road T-shirt, Forever21

Jeans: Gap, DIY dyed

Shoes: Chuck Taylors

Brown Tights: Gap

Thanks to my wonderful boyfriend Sam for taking these pictures.  He is so impossibly cool and has the best taste in music.  For real!

A response to @thecoveted and Devil's Advocate - an opinion piece

*This is an opinion piece.  I have a very strong opinion but unfortunately on some things I'm not as educated as I would like to be.  I simply just wanted to share some of my personal thoughts on the ethics of blogging.  Feel free to not read if you'd like.*

I want to come clean about something.  You, my readers who don't personally know me, should know that I work for a company that specializes in software for online marketing and PR.  I have never tried to hide this, and to be honest just google my full name and  you can see where I work.  That's my day job and in no way is my blog affiliated with my day job.  In fact my day job merely gives me the opportunity to put what I'm learning and doing at work, into what I'm doing personally with this blog.  This being said, and being a "blogger", I wanted to respond to the article "Devil's Advocate" that Jennine posted on The Coveted as well as Independent Fashion Bloggers.

There is a line when it comes to ethics and blogging.  However, since this transformation of the medium of blogging, this line has only become fuzzier.  As a blogger you have to ask yourself a few questions:

1.  Why am I doing this?
2.  What do I hope to get out of this?
3.  How transparent am I willing to be with my readers?
4.  Should I accept money or free stuff?

To be honest, I have not really had to deal with "sponsored content" on here.  Let's be honest, I am encouraging my readers to not go shopping and instead shop within their own closets... not exactly an ideal place for so and so online store to be advertising.  I am still purchasing shoes, tights, bags and other accessories because I can't make shoes, tights, bags (well kinda) and other accessories.  But even then its been of ebay and in thrift stores.

"But what about those icons over in your sponsors area?" Been meaning to address this one, those are affiliate links.  Basically, if you happen to be on my site, and click on those, I get a percentage of the sale...  nothing huge.  Also, I don't overtly promote those two companies on my blog.

As a blog "reader", if I was given content to read that was sponsored content, I would want to know about it.  Unfortunately there are bloggers out there that are perfectly okay with not saying, "Today's content is sponsored by so and so company."  By the way, the FCC has said this isn't allowed anymore.  As a blog writer, say a company approaches me about sponsored content, up front, the article has to say that its sponsored.  If a company gives me something so that I will write a blog post for them, I will say that I accepted a free gift in exchange for content, and report it where necessary.

Today, Jennine also posted a tweet that bloggers were being sent invitations to fashion week in exchange for posting pre-written content from that company.  This makes me a little sick to my stomach.  Yes, going to fashion week would be a DREAM, but damnit, I will not be told what to write and what to say in exchange for an invitation, and these bloggers that are being given this... they need to fess up.  (Just my opinion)

I think magazines and bloggers are in the same boat here.  No one can give an honest assessment of a trend, a line, a designer, if that trend, line, store, designer has their hand in that blogger or journalists cookie jar.  Magazines and editorials receive invitations, gifts, clothing, and goodie bags in hopes that they will write about it in their magazine (come on we've seen in on The Devil Wear's Prada and Kell on Earth).  I think it is unfair for magazines to get their panties in a bunch because fashion bloggers happen to be making a splash in the fashion world.  But to make it completely fair, it is the opinion of myself that bloggers should be transparent with their readers regarding sponsored content.  The good thing, is that from what I can tell, all the ones in my blog roll are transparent.

What I think is so beautiful about the fashion blogger phenom is that these are real women, real consumers, real customers, hopefully writing about what they love to wear, how they love to wear, who they love to wear because they enjoy it and not just because they are getting paid to do it.  Instead of the Ana Wintour's of the world telling designers what to do, fashion blogging gives designers direct access to their target market.  When its done right and when its done honestly, I believe that we as fashion bloggers can change the way the fashion world is.  Maybe one day we won't be seeing these 5'11" little sticks of girls and men prancing down a catwalk, but we may actually see a real woman wearing these clothes.

I think we have a rare oppurtunity in this day and age to directly influence a medium that's still operating on the age old traditions that have been around for centuries.  Although some designers would argue, fashion is for the people and not just for those who have the money and the job in order to flaunt it.

Jennine, your post was wonderfully written and I agree with you.  I hope that comes across in this post.

Soap box surrendered.

Digital Camera Case

Since the arrival of my digital camera that my parents got me for Christmas, I have kept it in my purse.  Unfortunately, I don't quite have a camera case of it.  For a awhile I kept it in the styrofoam like sleeve that it was packaged, but this morning I moved up to a purple ankle sock (clean of course).

Once I get the motivation to purchase a digital camera case for myself, here are a few I would like

 

EllieBJewels - $15.00

 

Tokyoinspired - $15.00

 

dorydesigns - $29.00

 

BoutiqueID - $22.00

 

chet and dot - $12.00

Any other suggestions?  Aren't these all so beautiful!  I love the owl, so fun.  

Picture source: etsy.com

Tiger's Blood, a snow cone story...

 

  

I have very fond memories as a child of snow cones.  I loved snow cones, and never one to be normal, I really loved unique flavors.  Last night Nashville got a light dusting of slush.  Its very snow cone-esque and today's outfit reminded me of Tiger's Blood flavor.  I think it was grape and cherry and strawberry all mixed together but it was my favorite.  It turned my tongue and lips a deep dark red and I loved it.  In fact, I still love it even though my taste in frozen treats has only grown more dignified as I have aged.  I spend my summers longing for gelato and the love nest at Mr. Snow in Waco, TX.  

This weekend I stopped by Clothing Xchange because I had a gift certificate that I was itching to spend.  Of course, I skipped the clothing (oh it was so painful) and went straight to the shoes.  I tried on at least five pairs of shoes and walked out with two pairs (spending under $10).  The ones I am wearing today are a black, brown and tan Florsheim low pumps.  They make me feet look so dignified.  Don't worry, I brought my rain boots to work so that I can stomp around outside in those instead of my new shoes.

Also new, are the tights.  I had an entirely different outfit envisioned for the super bowl party I ended up attending, but wore something completely different.  The first option required tights, and since I didn't want to wear solid black tights and the only other color I had were my suffocating purple ones and blue (which I was not cheering for the colts), I needed some with pizzaz.  Thank you Urban Outfitters and your 2/$20 special on tights.  These are actually incredibly comfortable, and not suffocating (I also bought a bigger size! woot!).  I will say this though, I can't wear something too short with these, I feel like going above the knee and seeing the flower pattern on the tights totally stretched out is not flattering.  

Cardigan: Urban Outfitters

Dress: Gap

Scarf: American Apparel

Tights: Urban Outfitters

Geaux Saints!

Three days, that's about how long I have had a headache... Life just kind of sucks when you feel like your brain is trying to split itself open.  This means, no outfit post of my Monday because you probably don't want to see me in my pajamas. :)

However, Sunday I got dressed in my black and gold to support the Saints.  I attended the annual boyfriend's delayed holiday party at a local bar here in town.  And this is what I wore on that fun and festive occasion!

 

  

  

Sam took these pictures, and it was so nice to be in a different setting, and having an actual person behind the camera!  We stopped by my favorite resale shop Clothing Xchange because I still had $17 of store credit.  We stopped outside and we snapped a few photos.  I think they turned out great!  This last photo is of a bag that I bought.  I have really been on the lookout for a really great purse.  I thought I found one at Target but there was just nothing special about it.  This was the right price and the right purse.  Its so large, I can stick my head and one shoulder in it.  I LOVE THAT!

Jacket: H&M

T-shirt: American Apparel

Jeans: Express

Shoes: Borrowed from a friend

Purse: Urban Outfitters, $19.99

I'm so glad the saints won the super bowl!!!  Wow!  I am still in total disbelief!

Fashion Tip Friday - How to Wear a Square Scarf, a video blog post

This is my first video blog post, so be gentle!

There are plenty of tutorials out there on how other bloggers and wearing their scarves so be sure to check out Julie from Orchid Grey and her wonderful tutorial, as well as, the ladies from Academichic who have been celebrating scarf week!

The only red I remembered to wear was a dinosaur necklace...

 

  

Today is the day to wear red for the American Heart Association.  I... forgot.  However, I am conveniently wearing my red rose ring and my dinosaur necklace from Tres Cute.  Yes, a dinosaur necklace.  Its a brontosaurus even though technically someone got the bones mixed up and they combined two together so its called something else now.  I. Don't. Care.  Its still a brontosaurus and its still my favorite dinosaur EVER.  When I was a kid, I loved dinosaurs.  I thought it was so cool that Ross Gellar was a paleontologist.  I wanted to grow up and be a paleontologist!  This necklace makes me smile.

Its raining out, and I'm a little puffy because of all the rain and the salty Mexican food I consumed last night.  So I wanted to wear gray because its my go to color when I'm not feeling my prettiest.  The other color I am fond of when I'm not looking too great is red, but we have already established that I forgot to wear that today.

Sweater: Cashmere/cotton blend from Gap

Tank: Target (it was $1!!!!!)

Jeans: Ruehl

Shoes: Striped Cotton Mary Janes Urban Outfitters

PS.  Today, when I was taking my pictures, I kept thinking about Indiana from Adored Austin.  I really like that girl!  She is silly and seriously makes me laugh out loud, and I love how incredibly honest she is.  Be back later with Fashion Tip Friday!  Oh, and wear red today!

What I wore to pulling my head out of my ass, aka what I wore to yoga

I cannot believe I am about to post a picture of what I wore to yoga this morning.  I really can't, but I feel like I should.  I've posted some of my most "real" outfits this week, and I just want to continue on showing everyone how frumpy I am fashionable I am.

 

This pose is a nontechnical variation on warrior 2?  

Okay so my post about two weeks ago where I admitted to feeling totally overwhelmed.  Well instead of being active, I decided to retreat into my butt and not do anything about it, and lost absolutely any sort of balance in my life, my time, my home, etc.  The weight of all of this fell hard on me as I crawled into bed last night and then seeped into my morning.  I really had a hard time smiling for photos this morning, so I didn't.  Today is getting my head out of my ass day.  Yoga was great, and one of the things on my "I Must" list (more on that later).  My shoulders feel like liquid and I feel ready to tackle the day.  However, I'm still totally stressed and hormonal and a tad bit overwhelmed, but I at least feel like I will have the energy to conquer through it.

As if you care but here is what I'm wearing:

Hoodie: American Apparel Track Jacket for work.

T-shirt: American Apparel t-shirt from former work event.

Leggings: Old and from junior year of high school

Leg warmer: Mom

Shoes: Toms

The color navy

 

  

  

 Third day in a row that I am smiling in my pictures... I mean you would think that I am in love with life and full of joy!  Remember several days ago when I wore these tights and these shoes again, and my legs looked squatty and I thought it was because of the length of my dress?  I WAS RIGHT!  This dress is one of my favorites and it was a total steal on clearance at the Gap two years ago.  I love wearing it in the summer with some strappy sandals and wavy beach hair.  I have not yet worn it during the winter until today.  I decided to winterize it up and its also warming up here in Nashville for the time being; which is good because I'm tired of walking like an old woman through the yard.

I also decided to give purple tights another shot.  I am going to try and have better posture which will hopefully not make me feel like I'm being cut in half by my tights.  Oh by the way, that's not a smudge on your screen or a funky thing in the picture, I have a tattoo on my left wrist, you can see it in the third picture.

Dress: Gap

Tights: Gap

Scarf: Urban Outfitters

Shoes: Naturalizer's, ebay

This just got real y'all

 

Here is the deal.  Today is one of those days where "life" trumps "blog".  I have been awake since 6:00 AM after a night of really not sleeping well, so that I could take my car into the mechanic at 7:30 AM.  I did not wash my hair, or even brush it.  So its probably a good thing that the top of my head is being cut off in this picture.  You all know what these boots look like, I don't need to show you a full shot of them.  I am exhausted, looking a little rough but ya know what... this is real life!  This when I don't really give two poops what I'm wearing or what my hair is doing (or I would have brushed it...)  I didn't even get coffee until almost 9 AM (thanks to my wonderful, beautiful co-worker Alison).  I had to take my picture at work because there wasn't enough light this morning to take a picture in my usual spot.

Here is what I'm wearing

Sweater: J.Crew, given to my by a friend cause she didn't wear it anymore

T-shirt" White Hanes V-Neck

Jeans: Express

Legwarmers: Mama!!!!!!

Boots: Anthro

If you need me, I'll be napping on my keyboard in between e-mail and IMs. 

Fashion Tip Friday - What I have learned in my 78 days without shopping

I don't miss it that much
I have found that I can still go into a store and look at all the beautiful decadent clothing, and walk out pretty happy without buying anything.  Don't get me wrong, I miss it.  That is for sure; I do miss it, but I have been pretty satisfied with just window shopping.


Inspiration can come from your enemy.
In no way am I putting a giant red X over window shopping.  I still look at dresses, pants, shirts, etc online and I still go into stores.  There are places that I avoid and areas of stores that I avoid.  But I also get super inspired by the look book photographs in catalogs.  I am already dreaming of the beautiful dresses I want to make.

There are better ways to cope.
The whole reason I wanted to stop shopping for a year was because it had become such a dangerous coping mechanism.  I wanted to be able to find a healthy way to cope with stress, frustration, and even joy without running to a clothing store.  The things that have helped me cope are yoga and this blog.  I am blown away at the time, energy, and money that I put into shopping, and to see where I am putting it now.

Getting a little greener.
It does make my heart shine a little bit to know that I'm not consuming like crazy.  I have been thinking what is going to happen when this year is up?  Am I going to go crazy and stock up my fall wardrobe with the latest trendy trend?  Probably not.  I have thought about making myself go through a transitional phase where I only shop at thrift stores for a few months. 

I don't really want to encourage other people to shop.
In starting this blog, I have been a little cautious in linking to exact matches and clothing.  I want to empower people who read this to feel like they don't have to shop, but that they can shop in their own closets.  In no way am I saying that shopping is evil, but I do not want to be saying one thing and then living something else.  I hope that there are women out there who can relate to my story, my closet, and to be really honest the pain that being a "shopaholic" caused me.  An addiction to shopping is not just a funny girlie movie title, its a serious issue that is simply not addressed. 

I don't want to sound like a Public Service Announcement, but if you think you could be dealing with an addiction to shopping, please e-mail me and I would really love to talk about it with you.

I love to create.
I am really loving this time and energy I have to put towards something I love.  Sewing has become a goal.  My fear of failure is something to conquer (hmmm, have I discussed this?  I have a paralyzing fear of failing... but I'm learning to get over it).  I am getting to make clothing that is perfectly me!  From the tiniest detail to the big picture!