Alyson Is Neat

Weekly Money Check up - Jan. 24th, 2012

2012-01-24T13:18:00.002-06:00

1. The most I’ve spent this last week was on getting my hair done. I spent so much on it, that I'm embarassed to type it out... I'll just keep it a secret, let's just say I could have bought at least two weeks worth of groceries. It was worth it though. I'm so happy with the way it turned out (can't you see my elation above). You can also see the glands under my tongue. Gross... I should really think about this stuff before posting it on the internet.

2. Today I am thankful for unspoken forgiveness. Let me get really honest: I suck at long distance friendships. Sunday night, I was throwing myself a huge pity party. The theme: "Classic questions Alyson just can't answer about herself right now." Perfect time for me to call either one of my two best friends in the whole world and just have some support, talk to them about their lives, have some comfort in knowing that, "Well, shit Alyson... no one's life is where they thought it would be... [insert perfect anecdote here]." It is nice to know that even though I've been a really crappy long distance friend, that when my friends and I do finally catch each other, its like they never left.

3. Money can’t buy happiness. One free thing I did last week that made me happy was finished all of my laundry. It really is the little things that make me happy. Not having a giant pile of clothes staring me in the face at the end of my bed. And of course getting to watch episode after episode of How I Met Your Mother. Oh and I guess this is free too... I bought a juicer... with a gift card from Amazon. Hence... it was free. Oh... and I watched the Bachelor! Last night! It was good... I hate how much I love that show.

4. I will consider this week a success if I can wake up 30 minutes later and still make it to work on time. It is amazing what cutting off 10+ inches of hair will do for ya. And a blog goal: to take pictures and blog about one outing this week. It will include a lot of instagramming.

5. The craft I am currently interested in right now is sewing. Before you say, "Cop out! You love to sew!" I haven't sewn in quite awhile. I get out of the habit of sewing because in the summer I don't want to be inside covered in scraps and in the winter I just want to curl up with my grey comforter and sleep. Sometimes, I wonder if I am a bear because I could totally hibernate all winter. That's ridiculous. I'm not a bear. I have 4 sewing projects that I want to work on, wait, make that five if I count making curtains.

Check out the original: Weekly Money Check Up over at My Pretty Pennies.

Fortune Cookie

2012-01-23T12:49:00.000-06:00

On Friday, my colleagues and I ordered some Chinese food to be delivered. I love Sesame Chicken. However, I don't love all Sesame Chicken. More than Sesame Chicken, I love egg drop soup. Delicious.

Of course the highlight of any chinese food meal is... the fortune cookie. Most fortune cookies are pretty vague. They all say something poetic about life or something incredibly generic, right. My fortune, "A pleasant surprise is in store for you tonight."

Yeah. Right. I tried to guess what it could be. Now it couldn't be something cynically hilarious, because it had to be pleasant. Here were my guesses:

1. My Netflix streaming wouldn't take FOREVER to load as usual.
2. Some elves came in my house and washed my dishes and folded my laundry.
3. A pony (duh, always going to be a pleasant surprise)
4. I am actually awake when Sam calls to say he is off from work.

What actually was my pleasant surprise:

1. A 102 point word on Words with Friends
2. My slanket was already out on the couch (because I had left it there from the night before).
3. Two pieces of cheese on my grilled cheese sandwich I had for dinner.
4. Elves did not come do my dishes or my laundry. Why pleasant? It would be creepy to know that elves were crawling around your house going through your underwear.
5. No pony, which also means, no pony poo.

Sometimes you just have to accept that a pleasant surprise can be something small.

Recipe: Creamy Tomato Soup

2011-12-13T13:04:00.000-06:00

I learned long long ago that even though Campbell's has the soup market down, I prefer to make my own tomato soup. It is just way better. (Although chicken and stars... so good) Honestly, tomato soup can't be screwed up unless you add too much salt or unless you spill it. I've been eating this a lot for dinner because it goes so well with a cheddarella (please refer to Weeds season 1 for what a cheddarella is).

Ingredients:

1 16oz can of whole tomatoes
1 T of chopped basil, fresh or dried
1/2 medium onion, chopped, sauteed
Season Salt
Cream (you can use half and half too)
Combine tomatoes (and juice in can), basil, onion into a blender. Blend for approximately 3 minutes until well blended. Some people like it chunkier, I like it smoothe. Pour into a medium sized pot and set on medium heat.

Stir in 2 T (or more if you want... it really doesn't matter) of cream. Make it look pretty and stir it around. Okay... keep stirring until well blended. Cook until hot.

Enjoy!

Really... that's it.

A post about snack crackers

2011-12-09T12:25:00.001-06:00

Thank you all for your comments and for seriously making me laugh... hard. So here it is a post about cheez-its... Not really, its just a picture. There's not much to say but that they are delicious! They go great dropped into creamy tomato soup.

I think I'd be able to enjoy ~~life~~ the holidays more if I wasn't so damn broke. I have money for presents but this chick is eating crackers and soup for lunch... and have done this three days out of the five, and then three nights out of the five for dinner. I'm not so broke I need money, its just eating weird stuff for dinner so you don't have to go to the grocery store. Putting $5 of gas in your car to get you towards payday. Basically all the normal things that normal people are doing because the economy sucks so much and so we can all pay off our student loans.

In theory, my whole year of no shopping was supposed to be the year I also paid off my credit cards. Instead it was more like "the year I went out to eat way too much and then none of my pants fit". And then simultaneously had giant disasters happen. Not only was I not able to buy clothes to replace said pants, but I had a fancy little pizza pooch (what if it had glitter on it and that is what made it fancy... I just shuddered thinking about that). I did get one card paid off, but it is now teetering back at its limit. *le sigh Fact: I have two credit cards teetering at their limits. Oh... joy.

But I noticed something. When a bill is automatically coming out of my checking account each month, I budget for it. Seems simple right? It is like I tricked myself, but in a good way. So, let's see if this method will work. I am going to currently pay $100 a month on my discover bill ($60 over the minimum). Oh wait... I have to trick myself. So the reality is that my discover card minimum is $100 a month... not $40 (but it really is $40) and it comes out of my checking account on the 16th.

Just call me the sneaky budgetteer, like a musketeer or a bucaneer but without a sword.

One reason why I'm feeling the pinch of the penny is because I got some shoes repaired. My gold flats and my vintage woven loafers. Both shoes I wear a lot, so getting them repaired seems logical. But it was $45 to replace the soles on my gold flats and then $20 for them to mend my other pair... I have got to get at least five more years of wear out of both of those shoes. Which I will, right? Sure. Do you get shoes repaired or do you typically just replace them? Thoughts?

Anyone else out there broke this Christmas?

PS- I totally just blogged about cheez-its AND soup.

Why I Decided to Continue Blogging...

2011-12-05T13:30:00.000-06:00

Let's not talk about the fact that I've been MIA for several months okay? Shhh... Really let's just not talk about it and move on. You forgive me? Okay great... now that's out of the way... I did want to discuss why I decided to come back.

When I first started this blog, I wasn't shopping for a year. That was my slant. "Great dress." Gee thanks, I've had it since senior year of college. "That shirt is awesome!" I totally dug through my friends piles of clothes before they sent them to Goodwill. I was that person. Then, my year was up. I learned a lot. I realized how much I expressed my emotions through shopping (bad Alyson). I learned how to cope with life without shopping (kick ass Alyson). But most importantly, I made some very sincere friends. They aren't the friends that you have because of proximity and physical closeness. These are the friends that you have because of the simplest form of similar interests, they make you laugh, of course, you genuinely care about them (which is how I feel about all my friends). This is why I want to continue blogging. But what to blog about?

Things I don't want to blog about:
-designer collections I will never be able to afford.
-shoes that I can't walk in.
-the stuff that people email me asking to blog about
-details about my job (that and I can't... seriously, its why I have a disclaimer)
-how much I love Forever 21 (b/c I don't love F21, ack!)
-what I wear every. single. day.

Things I do want to blog about (and most likely you don't want to read):
-excel functions and pivot tables (looooove)
-Cheez-Its
-Frozen pizza
-my super awesome talented hottie boyfriend (okay you do maybe want to read about that)
-how awful traffic is
-how awful winter is
-soup
-how I can't stand the competitiveness between bloggers

Things I do want to blog about (and you'd like too):
-my thrift store finds
-crafting
-product reviews
-recipes
-funny stories from my life
-some outfits, not all
-finances
-being a professional who is also a creative person
-the importance of knowing the conditions of the places where you buy stuff
-cool stuff I find on the internet
-people doing cool things
-my own personal struggles in life
-women's issues
-cool places I go
-books

So where does this leave me? Well, if you follow my blog because you think I have a great pouty blogger face, then just stop it! That is just one thing I don't enjoy anymore. I don't enjoy sharing my outfits everyday. I like what I wear, and I get enough satisfaction from that. I may still share an outfit or two that I'm particularly proud of; an awesome thrift score, great boots, an awesome outfit, etc. But this lady's days of setting up my tripod and avoiding people is over. There are a lot of reasons. They all come down to, sometimes I just don't care, and that is okay. It really is okay to sleep in an extra 20 minutes, not wash your hair, put on black pants and a cardigan, and walk out the door.

I do love thrifting. I love it a lot. I'm also a huge thrifting advocate and I tell everyone they should do it. I invite people to come thrifting with me all the time, but I tend to be a tiny bit maniacal about it. I have a method, I go a little crazy, and then I wish my hands (always wash your hands and your purchases). Over half of my clothes were previously owned by someone else, and I'm not grossed out about that.

I am incredibly passionate about my job. If you remember the year of no shopping then you were also here for the, "Oh shit, I got laid off." You may have been also here for the "I got a job!". I honestly couldn't imagine myself anywhere else. I love my job. I love the people I work with and I love the bigger picture of working where I do. More importantly, I actually love straddling the line of being professional but also appropriately showcasing my sense of style and creativity.

I miss writing. I miss writing clever remarks. I miss being informative and passionate about what I write about. A girl can only obsess over jeggings for so long. There is a myriad of social issues related to the fashion industry and to women that I want to talk about. I want to challenge myself, and research things that are hard so that I can express how I'm coping with that. I'm incredibly passionate about buying things that do not come from poor sweat shop-like conditions. Working in fashion manufacturing makes you realize that not every place that makes clothing is a sweat shop, but not every business cares about the cost of human lives.

What do you think? Can I do this? Well, I'm going to do this. Thanks for sticking with me. I promise nothing terrible happened. I wasn't sick... I was just sick and tired and unmotivated. I hope that this new structure will elevate my desire.

Brooklyn

2011-09-27T06:11:00.001-05:00

It is safe to say that I have an obsession with the Brooklyn Bridge. I think it is just beautiful. Just a little peak from my trip to New York that happened 3-4 weeks ago.

I also just love this shot that Sam took. He really is an amazing photographer with a really great eye. When I look at this picture I just think of one word, "hope".

I'm still on a bit of a hiatus as I'm still getting some things in my life together. Thanks for sticking around.

Dress Shorts

2011-08-30T22:53:00.000-05:00

I realized I never said what I was wearing on Saturday so here it is:

Top: Target
Shorts: H&M
Shoes: Payless
Necklace: Vintage

By the time you read this, it might already be Wednesday!

Nordstrom Fits America

2011-08-29T08:00:00.001-05:00

*I want to write an initial disclaimer, this will be about bras. I will be discussing my own personal bra size. You have been warned.*

So... who has been fitted for a bra before? Until Saturday, I thought I knew my bra size. Before I give everyone the big reveal, I do want to talk about an amazing service at Nordstrom's. They are opening a brand new store at The Mall at Green Hills here in Nashville. This weekend they gave a sneak peak of their lingerie department for any female willing to be fitted by one of their fit specialists. These fit specialists will be a staple to the Nordstrom lingerie department and they know their stuff. Did you know that 8 out of every 10 women are wearing the wrong size bra? At Nordstrom's their fit specialists take you into a private fitting area and measure underneath your bust, then they bring in their most basic bra in your correct size. Nordstrom's carries lines from DKNY, Betsey Johnson, Kensie, Calvin Klein, Chantelle Intimates and Hanky Panky just to name a few. They also carry a huge variety of sizes from 30AAA to 44J, and literally every size in between.

I took a few friends with me and we all had such a blast! I walked in wearing a 34B bra which even I'll admit is not even my right size. I bought it way too long ago and to be honest it never really fit me, I just thought it was pretty and it looks great if I am wearing something that is semi-sheer and black. However, to be honest, it barely even covered my breasts.

Once our sizes were revealed I was shocked how off I was on my size. We played around with some different styles and silouettes. The fit specialists even put us in the DKNY Super Glam bra. It increases your bust size by two cup sizes and is meant to give an augmented look.

We could not stop giggling at how ridiculous we both looked. Who needs a boob job when you can just buy what we were calling the "Vegas bra"?

At the end of the day, we all walked away with new bras, and I even threw out my old ill-fitting one.

After trying on tons of bras and even going up another size from the original new size, I finally settled on a beautiful underwire demi bra from Chantelle Intimates and a pair of black Hanky Pankys too match.

I absolutely love the detail on the strap. It is just so pretty! And the fit is amazing. I now feel incredibly supported in my new size bra. So what size did I end up going up to?

A 32DD.

I was wearing a band size too big and cup sizes that were 3 sizes too small. I am still so shocked when I put my new bra on and how amazing it fits.

Nordstrom at The Mall of Green Hills opens on Friday September 16th. As that date approaches, I will definitely share some of the festivities that will be going on to celebrate the grand opening.

I did get a chance to take some shots of the lingerie department. I cannot wait for the store to open so I can go back and pick up some more bras. Seriously, such a great selection!

Ahh, I love Betsey Johnson anything.

I just want to say a huge thank you to all the wonderful people at Nordstrom's that worked so hard to put this all together. This was such an amazing event, with terrific food and drinks. A huge shout out to Lindsey in cosmetics who did such an amazing job doing my make up for the event. Thank you for letting me be a part of such a fantastic event!

I Don't Get These Shoes

2011-08-28T10:00:00.000-05:00

At all...

Doesn't Pee-Wee Herman wear a version of these shoes in Pee-Wee's Big Adventure? They seriously remind me of clowns, and someone please slap me if I ever in the next year come around to these shoes...

all images via weheartit

You have been neglected

2011-08-23T08:07:00.001-05:00

I have really been neglecting my blog (well all blogs). I had over 300 unread posts the other day...

I am having major balance issues in my life right now, but it isn't anything I feel overwhelmed by, ya know. Juggling a job, a blog, working out, house-work, social-life is a tad bit exhausting. I am also really trying to savor the last little bits of summer. I love summer.

This is another one of the fabulous dresses sent over to me by BeBop Clothing. It has pockets! I also tried to capture the exposed zipper in the back, but it really just looks like I am trying to show off my butt. This dress accessorizes itself with the exposed back zip, draping, tie belt, and neckline. I can't wait to pair it with a black blazer once it cools off.

Dress: c/o BeBop Clothing (follow them on facebook)
Necklace: Jess LC
Shoes: hand me down from a friend

My Favorite Shirt

2011-08-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

I can remember buying this shirt. It was May of 2008 in Chicago. The last day Lisa and I were there, it had turned unseasonably cold. I remember ducking into Urban and going upstairs and scouring the sale racks. This shirt reminded me of a shirt my mom used to wear. Because of so many wears and washes, this shirt has turned so soft. I love how I can throw it on with a pair of cut offs and head out for a beer, or tuck it into a pencil skirt for work.

Does anyone else think about the costs per wear of an item? I do this a lot. I love for my clothes to have a pretty low cost per wear and despite the fact that I have a closet full of clothes, I love wearing them all.

Shirt: Cheap Monday
Skirt: thrifted
Belt: Gap (probably 9 years ago though)
Bracelets: Mexico, Claire's, Friendship
Shoes: Wanted Ritzy Loafer

Been a Hard Day's Night

2011-08-08T08:25:00.000-05:00

Day

Evening

Another week begins! Did everyone have a great weekend? I did. I spent lots of time with friends, drinking lots of beer, finishing it up with lots of mimosas, a nap, and curling up on the couch to watch some movies.

A few weeks ago I was contacted by BeBop Clothing to try out some of their stuff. I basically just talked to them about the things that I liked, what holes I had in my wardrobe to fill... a week later, a box shows up at my door with loads of goodies.

One thing I was desperately wanting was a white dress that could go from the office to evening. Because the heat is just oppressive, I paired my white dress with a seersucker blazer, belt, pendant necklace and flats. I just cannot wear heavy accessories in the summer. Neck, chest, wrist sweat is not cute.

To transition this look, I ditched the glasses and the blazer, and threw on my favorite cheap-o sandals from Urban Outfitters. I got so many compliments on this dress. And it was such an easy piece of clothing to wear!

Dress: c/o Bebop Clothing (like them on facebook)
Blazer: Old Navy (sorry guys, its from 6-7 years ago)
Belt: Target
Gold flats: Banana Republic
Sandals: Urban Outfitters

New York City

2011-08-03T11:12:00.000-05:00

I have some news yall. First things first, I finished Friday Night Lights. Such a good show, right? Second, I'm also really happy with who Ashley picked on the Bachelorette but really, I don't see how she chose. And finally, I will be spending my Labor Day Weekend in New York City thanks to the fantastic folks at Kensie.

WHAT?!

If you follow me on twitter, you have already known for weeks. I entered the contest to win a trip to New York City, and I won. When I got the e-mail, I wanted to pee my pants and hold my breath and cry at the same time. I am still super shocked.

Sam and I are going on a 3 night trip to New York City, and we need suggestions! I want this to be a full trip. Full of friends. Full of laughing. Full of food. Full of aching feet. Full of beer. Leave your suggestions in the comments!

If you want to meet up, just shoot me an e-mail.

I am so excited to share this trip and I am so excited to see friends.

A huge huge huge thank you to Kensie for hosting this sweepstakes and sending me on such an amazing trip. I really cannot thank them enough.

Dear Wednesday, It is hot. An ode to summer.

2011-07-26T13:00:00.000-05:00

This summer has been brought to you by, new hair cuts...

Seersucker shorts

Billowy cotton tops

Shiner, Ruby Redbird beer (sooo good!)

And old leather flip flops.

Typically when I get home from work, I just want to sit out in my front yard with a beer in a pair of shorts until I get tired of swatting mosquitos.

Shirt: thrifted, J. Crew
Shorts: a gift from Tori
Shoes: my six year old rainbows that could not fit more perfectly to my feetsies!

Guess what I see... a weekend on the horizon!

Welcome to Nashville Rachel Chester!

2011-07-26T08:00:00.006-05:00

I am constantly getting asked to do photo shoots (yeah right... sheesh sarcasm does not translate well in written form). Rachel Chester, photographer, friend, new Nashvillian, former New Yorker, from Texas, blogger... asked me if I wanted to do a photo shoot a few weekends ago. Just something fun, not too serious. I was excited.

I picked out a few locations in my neighborhood, grabbed a hat and we were off. It was so much fun and I'm so glad to have this lady around.

The Rio Mart closed down several months ago, but thankfully it is just sitting abandoned and no one has painted over the building. I have always wanted to take pictures outside of it, and was thankful that Rachel was willing to try out my crazy location!

A huge thank you to Rachel for asking me to do this!

Field of Dreams Dresses

2011-07-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

Surely I am not the only one who has discovered that you can put items in your shopping cart at Urban Outfitters and they stay in there? Those items will stay in there until you remove them from your shopping cart. This is fantastic because you can keep an eye on something until it goes on sale. It is like a wishlist but less complicated, and less emails to your friends and family. Basically, "If you stick-it-in-your-shopping-cart, they will put-it-on-sale-eventually."

I know, its a stretch for the Kevin Costner film reference.

When I first saw this dress on Urban Outfitters, it was instant love. But... the price was not right. I put it in my shopping cart and waited. Several weeks later, it went on sale. Thankfully, it was still at my local brick and mortar store where they were also offering an additional 30% off sale. Unexpected bonus, its by Cooperative and Made in the USA.

Dress: Cooperative, Urban Outfitters

Blazer: Gap

Necklace: local boutique

Belt: J. Crew

Shoes: Target

Still busy

2011-07-19T22:21:00.000-05:00

It is so hard to find time to blog when I get to hang out with this man after work. I have outfit pictures, post ideas, all of it but for now, I just want to soak up as much time with Sam as possible.

Top 5 Things to do When You Haven't Been Blogging

2011-07-12T20:00:00.002-05:00

I have clearly been incredibly absent the last few weeks. I could give all the common excuses, that its hot but really its just hot and I've been lazy, wanting to grab a few more minutes of sleep instead of taking pictures. So here is what I've been up to in pictures that are not from me because I keep forgetting to take pictures (must get better at pictures!)

1. Canoeing

This weekend I went canoeing with friends. I also got incredibly sunburned! This skin hasn't seen sun (actually been burned) in about 2 years. I'm such a good little fair skinned lady, always wearing the sunscreen. Well, except for this time. If someone can please explain to me how my left hip got sunburned, I'd really appreciate it. I don't get it.

2. Camping

Okay I lied. I did take some pictures. Sam and I went camping at Rock Island State Park. There are so many places to hike and find stuff like this, a gorgeous waterfall of ice cold spring water. There is a river that has tons of swimming holes filled with ice cold spring water. An old mill across the street from an old spring full of ice cold spring water. Did I mention that the water was ice cold? Oh, I did okay.

3. Sweating

I'm such a Texas girl. I love summer. I love warm nights. I love the humidity (sometimes). I love how the heat hits you like a wall when you walk outside... It is hot in Nashville. Texas hot.

4. Blowing up sparkly things

I am very thankful for the rockets red glare, and the American flag. Yes, I get it. Most people in other countries hate America and the fact that I'm from Texas doesn't make it any better because most Americans that are not Texans, think Texans are obnoxious (Texas Forever!). I love fireworks. I love all the cool ground ones the most. I also really love to light smoke bombs and then run through the smoke. I pretend to be a super villain. Did you also know I'm a huge dork?

5. Working

If I have been working, then why am I also putting up a clip of Parks and Recreation? Well, despite the fact that I work in a cubicle... I think my work place environment is most like the Pawnee Parks Department. The team of people I work with are really funny, AND our department loves to throw a good party. I also don't know if working is typically a top 5 thing to do when you haven't been blogging, but it does take up a lot of my time.

I'll be getting around to prancing in my back yard, taking pictures of myself twirling and what not soon. Perhaps I'll take pictures of Sam and I drinking beer or grilling. For now, I'm going to go get some chocolate pudding.

All images via weheartit.com

Shake, Rattle and Roll

2011-06-23T08:00:00.004-05:00

This might be my new favorite dress. I love a good "wiggle" silouette. For bizarre reasons, I have always struggled with being less that satisfied with certain parts of my body. This is ridiculous because it is dresses like this that make me realize what a fantastic figure I have. This dress just skims my body in all the right places, providing structure where it is needed.

This week has seemed unrelenting! I am ready for the weekend to get here. I'm ready to sip my coffee without haste. Although, I will say I got a pleasant surprise at the gym yesterday. I was changing into my yoga clothes and I turned around my yoga instructor was back from her hiatus. I was so thrilled, I hugged her twice. Hi, yeah, I'm awkward! Thankfully, I was just picking up my work pants from off the ground... so its not like I was half dressed or anything.

It is hug the people you love day... so just do it. Hugs are good, and people probably need them.

Dress: vintage, purchased from Tiny Boot
Belt: purchased from Muse boutique
Shoes: Nine West, DSW

My Colors are Blush and Bashful

2011-06-22T08:00:00.001-05:00

It is impossible to be a woman from the south (or living in the south) and not have a deep connection to the movie Steel Magnolias. Dolly Parton, Julia Roberts, Daryl Hanna, Sally Field, Shirley McClane.... amazing. Anyways, the colors of Shelby's wedding were definitely my inspiration for this entire outfit. I also love that even though I'm wearing pink head-to-toe, it still looks feminine instead of girly. I really love how grown up and chic this whole look is.

I colored my hair again. Your computer is not messed up, my hair is really that bright. Typically, I touch up the roots and then pull it through, but this time I just did color all over. I'm love with how bright it is. Unfortunately, I think this may be the last time I color it for a while. Being a redhead has been fun, but I miss my blonde! (Does anyone else remember when I was a blonde because I'm starting to forget?!)

This is a top in my swap with Mel. It is definitely a tunic and honestly, if I had a little tank dress, I would throw the top on with it. This is my second time wearing my pink pants that I dyed (or DIYed) to work. I am still in love with them too. Makes me happy.

Sunglasses: H&M
Cardigan: Gap
Top: Kensie. swap with Mel of Idée Géniale
Pants: Lands' End Canvas, dyed pink
Shoes: Payless

An ode to sleepy time tea

2011-06-21T08:00:00.003-05:00

Dear Sleepy time tea,

I can only hope that tonight I will feel as cuddly as a bear in a night cap. Please work, please calm, and please make me sleepy.

Sincerely (yawn),

Alyson

Not sure why, but I did not fall asleep Sunday night until 4AM Monday morning. I tossed and turned, fidgeted and paced, cooled off my right leg and my left leg. I could not fall asleep. I'm exhausted with only five non-consecutive hours of sleep.

However, I am super excited to share this swap. So, after I went a year without shopping last year, Mel of Idée Géniale is doing it this year. Last year, we did a swap because I desperately wanted to wear something that hadn't been sitting in my closet for 10 months! Mel is incredibly fashionable, hands down my favorite Canadian, and fortunately we are pretty close to the same size. She sent me a swap package several weeks ago and mine that I sent her got sent back and she finally got it Monday (grr USPS, and hooray UPS)!!!

This dress was a stretch because typically, I don't wear such short stuff to work... BUT, I forget that I'm a shorty (did you know I'm only 5'4"?). It worked, no accidents, no slip ups, no one saw my unders! So everyone say hello to my legs!

Dress: swap w/ Mel, Forever 21
Belt: J. Crew, $6
Shoes: Tiny Boot Vintage
Earrings: Tree and Kimball

You Were Always Fine

2011-06-16T08:00:00.001-05:00

Sam and I went camping this past weekend, and among the multitude of bug bites, I also skinned my knee. Major bummer. But it was fun and we had a blast. I definitely want to do more camping when the weather cools off, or even going somewhere that is a little cooler this summer?

Last night, Sam and I had a dinner-in night. He picked out this pasta recipe. I had a bottle of wine on storage. Watched some netflix and just had a relaxing night in. The best part, well besides getting to spend time with Sam... okay so the best part of the food, LEFTOVERS! I'll be the envy of the lunch table with my creamy shrimpy pasta.

Like anyone else, I'm obsessed with Groupon. However, I only buy groupon's that I know I will use. I bought tickets to the Nashville Rollergirls double header for Sam's birthday and because of a mistake with how much the tickets were, I had a $20 credit. When the Jewel Mint groupon came up, of course, I knew exactly where my groupon credit was going. This necklace is one of the pieces I purchased. I rarely buy new jewelery and most of the stuff I have is from when my Mamaw passed away and the cousins all got some of her costume jewelery. It was so exciting to pick out things that are eclectic and beautiful.

Dress: Gap. $19
Shoes: Old Navy, $10
Necklace: Jewel Mint, Groupon

I'll Gladly Stand Up

2011-06-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

About a year ago, during the flood, when I didn't have a home, I was actually staying with Sam. One night, both him and his roommate were working. I had the entire house to myself, but chose to lock myself up in Sam's room (he lives in the converted attic space of the house), I was most likely watching an Alias DVD or something when I thought I heard singing coming from downstairs. I could feel the blood drain from my body, but decided to check it out. As I opened the door from Sam's room I heard "God Bless the USA" blaring from his roommate room. I called out his name, and of course nothing. I crept into Ben's room slowly. However, something out of the corner of my eye made me freeze. It was a man! I turned around preparing to scream before I got a good look. It wasn't a man. It was Woody from Toy Story. A giant doll of Woody from Toy Story. Easily a four foot doll. Yes, let's all say it because we are thinking it, I got scared by a giant Woody. Suddenly, the music didn't matter as I let out a sigh of relief. The music was actually coming from an alarm clock that had been set to go off at the wrong time.

I wore this outfit sometime last week to go to work. As much as I love these shoes, I have to remember to bring flats with me. These shoes kill my feet, lovely, but they kill. For some reason the editing in these photos always makes my hair look super red. It has actually faded quite a bit, or maybe it just looks like this.. I have no idea.

Shirt: seriously old, I bought it from Gadzooks (a store that carried Forever 21 crap) easily six years old.
Belt: Forever 21 (I really don't shop there anymore so its weird so much of this outfit consists of that.
Skirt: thrifted
Shoes: thrifted, Michael by Michael Kors (Beacon's Closet Park Slope)

Frozen Pizza

2011-06-13T18:34:00.000-05:00

When my schedule gets really busy, and I get stressed out... one of my go-to foods is frozen pizza. I can often get a more flavorful pizza, for cheap. I used to exclusively eat Tostitos party pizza's but decided that as I am an older woman now, my taste's should probably be more refined (although tonight my dinner will consist of a pizza hot pocket and a can of Modelo Especial... and maybe a baked potato, or fresh tomatoes and grapes).

I have a deep and passionate love for pizza, especially flatbread style, so I was excited to see that Kroger (or if you are from the south, the krogers) started carrying their own brand of private selection pizzas. I wasn't sure what pearlini mozzarella was... but it looked good.

Straight out of the box. Of course I had to relocate some of the ingredients a little bit.

I added some fresh basil which my neighbor graciously lets me pick from his herb garden. (See, make friends with your neighbors... especially when they grow stuff). Then pop it in the oven for about 11 minutes at 475, and then ta da!

Hello dinner! I can put away quite a pizza, so eating this whole thing was easy. The pepperoni and the cheese were excellent for a frozen pizza, however the edges of the crust were a little too crispy. I had to leave the pizza in the oven a little longer than it said on the package to get the mozzarella to melt all the way. I think the added fresh basil really helped the flavor of the pizza as well.

What is your go-to cheap quick dinner? Sam can do some amazing things with ramen noodles, and I can make baked potatoes go from dinner to later evening snack in no time.

Congratulations!

2011-06-08T08:00:00.002-05:00

Congratulations! If you are reading this, you have made it to Wednesday. Wednesday, friends, is the crest of the hill that is a work week. Hopefully, after today, everything will just roll right into the weekend.

I wore this on Tuesday to, of course, go to work, but I also ran a few errands after work. I rarely have meetings with higher-ups. If I do have meetings they are strictly within my department, and definitely within my team. This explains why I can get away without a blazer or a suit jacket on most days. Anyways, after work I hit up a few bookstores to look for a good old self-help book and pick up some lawn chairs that were on sale at Target. I almost picked up a pair of work out bike shorts to buy, but I ended up changing my mind on them half-way through the store.

Even though this is a very typical going to work outfit, I think it is an incredibly unique blend of vintage, thrift, and new but on sale. I try to only wear black wants once a week, but I do have four pairs of them. They are all different styles, these being the most traditional. They have a fantastic flap pocket that makes my booty pop.

Top: vintage, $18
Belt: J.Crew, $6
Pants: Michael by Michael Kors, thrifted, $2 (yes, I just dropped that bomb)
Shoes: Target, $5

I Hear the Call of a Lifetime Ring

2011-06-07T08:00:00.006-05:00

Thank you for the comments on my last post. I am glad to hear that y'all wouldn't mind if I posted about excel functions. I could get really crazy and post about pivot tables.... but really that might be a little too crazy.

I wore this outfit yesterday. I decided to kick my Monday off feeling good and nothing makes me feel good like stripes and the color green. Basically my striped shirt and any skirt that I own make me feel like a million bucks. I wore this to go to work, hit up a doctor's appointment, and that's it. I came home, made myself some dinner, and watched The Bachelorette. Sam is working every night this week but, I have some prep to do for this weekend. I had a really full weekend (bowling, went out, did all my laundry, vintage shopping, changed my oil, and watched the Mavs game), so I will be glad to lay low a little during the week.

This weekend, I checked out the yard sale at Fanny's House of Music. I came armed with $20 as my budget and walked away with some amazing items from Tiny Boot, such as these shoes! I have been looking for more flats especially with this shape. And you really cannot go wrong with that color. I will definitely be getting a lot of wear out of them.

Striped shirt: Lands' End Canvas
Wrap skirt: Kayce Hughes
Shoes: vintage, Tiny Boot

Just Where Have You Been Young Lady?

2011-06-06T18:22:00.000-05:00

It is safe to say, I have been doing far less mischevious things than this little girl above. Didn't you love playing on the roof as a kid? When I was a kid, I loved being up in the air. I loved climbing on to the roof, and jumping down from about 12 feet. I loved jumping on trampolines and tumbling. I loved dangling from the uneven bars in gymnastics, just swinging back and forth, as high as I could go. Knowing that you really only have so much control is a delicious freedom. In yoga, I often tell myself, "You only have about 30% control over what your body will do, the other 70% is the balls to do it." Sometimes, I fall flat on my face, and other times I fall upside down into a handstand. Either way, I tried, and that is freedom.

I have made a million excuses to why I haven't blogged. Yes, I have been incredibly busy. No, I haven't really enjoyed blogging lately. Cicadas scare the crap out of me and every time I step outside they try to land on me so I'm not going to pose for them. My roots are showing. Why yes, I have been waking up 30 minutes late (oops). Do you really want to see what I wear to work everyday? But... I can't wear shorts and thigh highs, or dresses with back cut outs or sheer shirts that show my bra. And aren't you tired of seeing me wear stripes? (NEVER!!!!)

One thing is though, I've been fighting my niche. I am a twenty-something professional, working an 8 to 5 job, dressing business casual, wearing black frequently, and always erring on the side of conservative. I sit at a desk, in a cube, make jokes by the water cooler, and park in a parking garage. I take an elevator to our offices, I bring PB&J, and I love working in excel. I have actually contemplated doing a post on my top 5 favorite excel functions... I'm serious.

Alyson will return tomorrow. For today, she's going to take a nap before making her dinner.

Don't Turn on the Heat

2011-05-17T21:46:00.001-05:00

I am determined to not turn on the heat in my house, but slowly as the cold creeps into my slippers, my willpower is fading.

Right now can I please fly to the nearest airport to Robyn, crash on her and Chris's couch, and just be in Florida? Or Austin where my mom constantly reminds me that it is 90?

Anyways, this post is dedicated to winning a contest (um... $150 worth of vintage, yahtzee). Also, because of said cold, I'm not in the mood for dressing all cute and shit. I am determined to not wear tights, which means a lot of black dress pants. Come on, I do work 8-5 in an office...

You know you want to win too!

Turn My Sorrow into Treasured Gold

2011-05-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

So what does one wear on her first day back into the world after being stuck in bed for almost four days. Well this. I've actually worn this outfit before. Last time I put this combo together, it wasn't 90 degrees out. To be honest, I liked the first one better. Looking back, I should have belted under the cardigan.

Oh, and sorry, I'm not ready for my close up yet. Being sick wreaks havoc on my skin, and trust me, you don't want to see that yet.

Cardigan: Target
Belt: vintage
Dress: thrifted
Shoes: Banana Republic, via TJ Maxx

PS- Did anyone see Glee last night? That first number, gave me chills! Amazing... it inspired the title of this post!

Hot Pink Pants

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

At around 4 PM today, I finally crawled out of the fifth circle of hell (also known as a sinus infection). I am finally feeling better after spending my entire weekend (Friday night + Saturday + Sunday) in bed and until 1:00 on Monday when I had to put on patchouli oil to cover up the fact that I didn't even want to shower. It really is amazing when you stop coughing and are able to breathe... how much more sleep you get.

So pink pants. YEAH! After my failed search of finding pink pants, in which even my grandma was trying to help, I decided to take matters into my own hands. DIY has never really failed me except for when it comes to spray painting anything with laminate (ugh). So, I ordered the same pants I have in black, but in white, from Lands' End Canvas and dyed them.

Dying is an easy process and there are far too many how-tos on how to do it. I used the Jacquard iDye (even though I am totally a RIT girl, JoAnns didn't have the color I wanted). Dying something is 10% dye, 20% knowing exactly the type of fabric you are dying 3% salt or vinegar if its a manmade fabric (oh, dyer joke right there haha oh I crack myself up) and 67% just having the balls to do it.

I normally do my dying in the washing machine, and I've never had the problem of left over dye staining my clothes. But, I wanted to put together a few tips when it comes to dying.

1. Know your fabric! Cottons, add salt. Manmade fabric? (polyester) add vinegar and use special dye. Also, think about topstitching too, most likely the thread won't take the dye
2. Read the directions on the dye. Read the directions on the dye. Read the directions on the dye.
3. If you use the washing machine, time your agitation cycle prior to dying. Yes, sit in your laundry room with a stop watch and see how long it takes. This is very important as you will most likely have to run your agitation cycle a lot.
4. Once you are done dying, run one empty washer cycle with hot water and detergent. Then run one empty washer cycle with cold water, detergent, and bleach. This should get your machine ready to wash your clothes again.

Shirt: jcrew, hand me down
Necklace: made by me, inspired by ...love Meagan's awesome tutorial
Belt: Gap (and oh so old)
Pants: Lands' End Canvas 100% cotton white pants, dyed pink
Shoes: Target (and only $6... hello summery black flats I've been wanting for two years)

Time Away

2011-05-03T08:05:00.001-05:00

I'm still alive. A few things:

Can someone bring me some peonies? Please? I may also settle for some graham crackers.

I'm home sick today. I started getting a sore throat related to allergies on Saturday evening, and its only gotten worse. Staying home to rest, not talk, and drink the hottest tea I can stand.

When did Nashville become Portland, OR? It has been raining since Sunday, and we only had about two days of not rain. This type of weather not only makes previously said allergies go haywire, but also my skin and my hair. Things aren't pretty over here.

Oh, and I'm sick of my closet. I know it will pass, and I just have to wash and dryel my stuff from Goodwill this weekend and I will have a sunnier disposition about life, but I'm ready for 80 degrees all the time. This has probably been the biggest cause to my hiatus recently.

Can you guys tell me some funny stories? That will hopefully make me not being able to speak worth it.

Image via weheartit

Marmalade Skies

2011-04-27T09:45:00.000-05:00

Good thing that I have these lying around because this week has proved impossible to get pictures in.

Short and sweet.

To the point.

It is Wednesday.

Sweater: Gap

Skirt: Vintage

Shoes: Antonio Melani

Color Blocking

2011-04-21T08:00:00.002-05:00

Other possible titles for this blog post include:

Mustard and Grapes, not a snack

My hair did not work this morning

Ya know, just hangin' out on the roof of a parking garage

Ronald McDonald and the Purple thing had a baby on my clothes

I know color blocking is like all the rage. I decided to give it a try, especially after picking up this fantastic purple skirt for a dollar. Unfortunately, this skirt wrinkles like crazy and after sitting at my desk for a few hours, this is what happened. I really love this skirt though! The hour-glass silhouette when I look in the mirror makes me feel so confident. When I walk, I actually wiggle.

Shirt: Target
Necklace: gift
Belt: Muse boutique
Skirt: thrift store
Shoes: Antonio Melani
Bag: Volcom

Oh Doctor, Please help me. I'm damaged.

2011-04-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

Rolling Stones Quote!!!

What do you know, I'm writing this in the morning before I publish it. Work has been crazy this week and it won't die down until May, but even then it won't die down that much. So, my posting may be a little erratic and not as timely.

This morning at 1:30 I almost took a nose dive into my cramped closet in only my sleep shirt and unders. The storms this season have been ridiculous, so when I woke up to my bedroom window being pelted with scary wind, I was for sure a tornado was on the way. My heart was POUNDING. Alas, it was only 70 mph winds, no tornado. Which is good because, if something happened and I wasn't wearing pants.... oh geez, that would be embarrassing.

After looking at pictures, I'm not too crazy about this outfit. I think the shirt needed to be fitted. With a loose shirt and the stripes, it creates this optical illusion of slight chubbiness. The flats do not help with this problem either creating an odd proportion.

Shirt: vintage, gift from a friend
Belt: Gap
Skirt: vintage, Local Honey
Shoes: Old Navy

The Killer

2011-04-18T18:32:00.000-05:00

I have nothing to say today. Nothing to blog about, except that this weekend, I saw Jerry Lee Lewis perform. One of the greatest rock and roll legends of all time, and I will never ever forget it. Just another reason why I love living in Nashville.

Take One Down and Pass It Around

2011-04-13T11:00:00.000-05:00

One of the many treasured tasks that became frequent during my year without buying clothing, was hand me downs. When my friends called me or invited me over and said they had a stack of clothes for me to go through, I jumped on the possibilities.

It is finding treasures like this dress, that make me want to do a big swap in Nashville, one that is on the scale the Swapaholics or something like that. One of my best friends bought this dress a few years ago on a shopping trip we went on. When we hung out this weekend and she pointed to the pile of clothes on her dining room table, I saw the skirt of this dress peaking out. It has always been one of my favorite dresses of hers (and I don't think I ever borrowed it while we were living together).

Dress: hand me down from Lisa
Shoes: Nine West
Bracelets: family costume jewelery

Face It: Foundation

2011-04-12T20:44:00.000-05:00

I have been struggling with how to write this post without completely sounding like an infomercial however, it is because of infomercials that I decided to try bareMinerals. I had been using liquid foundations of various forms because of the coverage they provided. As I revealed last week, my skin is sensitive and break out prone if I don't take serious care of it. I remember realizing that after trying so many different things to calm my skin down, the only thing I had not changed was my foundation. I was still using some form of liquid foundation.

It was around this time that I saw the infomercial for bareMinerals. I saw the results, and that convinced me to try it. But in reality what has kept me using it for the past 5 years is that it has incredibly reduced my breakouts. Another reason why I use it, is because in the past 5 years of using Bare Minerals, I've bought about 4 foundation tubs, 3 mineral veil tubs, and two warmths. The money is worth it!

I use the original bareMinerals SPF15 Foundation, bareMinerals Warmth, and bareMinerals Mineral Veil. I started off getting the starter kit. You get two foundations (in two different colors), a warmth, a mineral veil, and the three main brushes that you need to get the most out of the kit.

By the way, I had this entire side by side comparison of my skin with and without foundation on, and something whacky happened with the lighting. Basically, I have circles under my eyes because of my fair, thin skin. I also have some redness on my cheeks, and broken capillaries around my nose. Once I put on foundation though, my skin looks flawless.

All right, done with my infomercial (but really, its just soooo great! What types of foundation do you guys use? What have you found that works the best?

Also, please know, I'm not receiving any sort of compensation for posting about Bare Escentuals. If I was, you would know.

Hold Your Head Up You Silly Girl

2011-04-11T18:12:00.000-05:00

This post has got to be quick. Looking at pictures of my outfit from Friday really makes me want a grapefruit... How was everyone's Monday?

top: Target
Scarf: Deena and Ozzy, Urban Outfitters
Pants: Lands' End Canvas (my favorite pants right now)
Belt: oh gosh... embarrassed to say this but Abercrombie and Fitch... I know... what the heck? I bought it like 6 years ago or something... and it doubles on itself. It was $0.99.
Shoes: Old Navy

And I'm off to enjoy my super duper rainy evening!

Wishy Friday

2011-04-08T08:00:00.001-05:00

source: weheartit

I wish...

these weren't denim.

this pinata didn't make me sad.

I could have this bunny wall in my bedroom.

that my 14 year old self would have bought these shoes.

I could hike tomorrow instead of work.

to wear and carry these.

a wolf was appliqued on my sweater.

Finally, I wish you a happy Friday and a happier weekend.

Purple Pencil Skirt

2011-04-07T09:00:00.002-05:00

A few weeks ago, I hit up one of my favorite thrift stores to do some hunting. As I am still on the lookout for a pair of pink pants (which I may just buy some white ones and dye them) I made a beeline for the womens pants. After finding nothing, I came across two items in the womens skirt section that made up for it: a black leather mini skirt, $8, and this purple pencil/wiggle skirt, $2. This is why I love thrifting.

The shirt was a purchase from Local Honey. I'm sure you are so sick of me talking about Local Honey but it is seriously one of my favorite shops in Nashville. I love the selection of vintage they have. Sam said this shirt reminds him of Saved By the Bell with the graphic print. The shirt is a great shape which overlaps almost like a double breasted jacket. It closes with only three buttons, but then has buttons on the inside to secure it from opening up.

Shirt: Local Honey
Skirt: thrifted
Shoes: Payless, Fioni peep toes

Sweet Moments

2011-04-06T09:00:00.001-05:00

Lately, I have been learning to treasure the sweet moments. Those tiny capsules of time where the unexpected happen, those great conversations come out, laughter, and most of all love. This photoshoot was such a sweet moment with Sam. I just asked him if he minded taking picture of me really quick as it was freezing cold outside. However, what came out were some fantastic pictures, all because there was a person behind the camera.

There is a lot of changing that has been going on in my life and around me. It is good to be reminded of the sweetness of life. That it has an ebb and flow, and to treasure the time I spend. Monday night, a sweet moment happened. A terrible storm blew through Nashville on Monday, torrential rains, damaging winds.... a lot of people were without power. It was my friend Katherine's birthday and she invited us to go eat Korean food. The shops along the street were completely dark, every block, except the one we needed. However, towards the end of our meal, the power went out and we had to finish in the dark. It was great though! We all ate by candle light, just sharing stories and laughing.

I am thankful for life lived together well, and my hope is to love well too.

Dress: Lands' End Canvas
Tights: Navy, We Love Colors
Boots: Anthropologie

Face It: The Oil Cleansing Method

2011-04-05T08:00:00.002-05:00

After taking a super close-up picture of my face, I had several comments on my skin. I thought this brought a great opportunity to discuss my beauty regimen, as it is unique. This will be a four part series where I discuss various parts of my skincare routine. Starting with the basics of cleansing and moisturizing, foundation, make up (my favorite!), and finally wrapping it up with body care.

What is the oil cleansing method? It is exactly that, washing your face with oil. Trust me, I know what you are thinking, "Ew." Am I right? Hear me out. The basis of the Oil Cleansing Method (OCM) is that regular soaps and cleansers strip away dirt and make up, of course, but can also strip the natural oils your skin produces. This can lead to an overproduction of oil by your skin, causing your skin to be oilier and shiny, as well as causing dry spots or even break outs. Basically, this is the same idea as using sulfate free shampoo, but this is for your skin.

Up until my mid twenties, I have battled with my skin. I break out when I am stressed or when I'm not taking care of my skin. I also would have to be very careful about changing cleansers because my skin is pretty sensitive, or so I thought. I have very fair skin with large visible pores on my nose, cheeks and chin, with a tendency to break out on my cheeks and jawline. Dry patches on the sides of my mouth flare up terribly in the winter and often flake and crack. As a teen, I was on all sorts of medication to level my skin out and continued to struggle with my skin until I officially was well into adulthood. For years, I used plain Dove bar soap and some sort of heavy moisturizer with a sunscreen in it, because I didn't want to do anything that could make my skin angry. That was up until about six months ago when I started using OCM.I would love to go into the process more, but there are amazing resources for OCM. I will however be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Ideally, you would not have to use moisturizers with this method, however, I still do to protect my skin from the sun. I'm not sure if you have noticed this but I have fair skin and unlike when I was a teenager, I want to keep it that way (unless it is a spray tan, which are a guilty pleasure of mine). I use Garnier Nurtritioniste Ultra-Lift Anti-Wrinkle Firming Moisturizer with an SPF 15 sunscreen. I just started using this stuff, and I really love it. My skin feels firmer and it moisturizes all of my trouble spots.

I will have to give a little word of advice. If you have a skin care method that works fantastic for you, then use it and stick to it. If you are disatisfied with your skin and want to research some alternative options to cleansers, give OCM a try. So, ideally, I use OCM at night before I go to bed. Sleep. Shower. Then either before or after I take my gummy vitamins, I moisturize my face.

What do you use? Anything you have been using for ages? Something new you have tried? Questions about OCM?

Weekending

2011-04-04T08:00:00.003-05:00

This weekend, on Saturday I Saturdayed and on Sunday, I Sundayed. I can say that each day was filled with me spending time with people I love and who love me back (and their dogs), and drinking beer. I also bought potting soil to get my container garden kicked off and I bought shoes.

Lisa and I went shopping on Saturday. We checked out all the new local designs at Local Honey and then scooted down to The Gulch to check out Urban Outfitters. I found a skirt at Local Honey, but tried on some ridiculous stuff at Urban that did not work.

Sunday, Sam and I cashed in some drink tokens at one of our local haunts, then grilled hamburgers and watched Rear Window. Just an easy simple Sunday.

Dress: gifted from Twitch Vintage
Belt: Anthropologie
Necklace: gift
Sunglasses: Target
Shoes: eaten by the grass

Bloggers, Munchies and Fashionable Brunchies

2011-03-30T22:21:00.000-05:00

It is the end of Wednesday and I still haven't talked about my weekend! I had the honor of attending a ladies brunch at Margot, the only request was that the dress code be semi-formal. It was so much to get together with new friends and meet some new bloggers! I met the fantastic Sarah Louise of tzipporit and Quincy from Q's Day Dream. Carmen of Closet Case Vintage stopped by and it was so good to see her again. I also had the chance to spend time with Rachel, and reminisce about my birthday party that I don't remember. It only makes me want to do more get togethers like this!

Despite my tights being covered in lint (that's what I get for crawling back into bed), I felt fancy. Red satin does that to you. However, I am a little sad that my red birthday dress doesn't exactly fit anymore, I think it is just too big. I'll just have to make another one, but this time in white since every I cannot find a good white dress!

At some point when it stops being cloudy and rainy, I'll have the chance to take outfit pictures again. Until then, remember its only a few more days until the weekend!

Well Hello! Don't you look great?

2011-03-28T14:22:00.001-05:00

I'm guessing if you follow my blog through an rss feed, you haven't seen my new layout. The old bloggity blog got a sweet little redesign.

Unfortunately, this is my only post of the day. I'm a sicky with a migraine. I'm going to rest my eyes and lay in silence because all other noise makes my head pound.

Ch-Ch-Changes

2011-03-25T08:00:00.001-05:00

I have an idea. I want to redesign my blog. I have worked on a few graphics to simplify and de-clutter my sidebars, but I have been putting it off. I feel like if I blog about it, it will cause some sort of accountability to rise and I will update my blog design. If you see me lazying around this weekend, watching No Reservations on Netflix, please stop me. I'm motivated but its like being motivated to build an igloo. I can make ice... but I can't make a house. I can pick out colors and size things, but it is a lot of work for me to design something. Redesigning a blog is like an igloo? Can you tell it has been a long week?

I must say something exciting happened earlier this week. During our all staff meeting, I was introduced to my peers and colleagues. It was also announced that I have a blog. So, hello to everyone reading this because you heard about it at staff meeting! It is pretty amazing that this amazing university is supportive and excited about my blog. I think it just makes me even more excited about it!

Finally, can we talk about Tree and Kimball? These earrings are made by Tree and Kimball. A portion of my purchase went to help Japan. Not only was I excited to give, I have been eye-ing this pair of earrings for a while now. I like to think that the blue of the earrings and my eyes are the same color. Definitely check out more of her collection because it is beautiful, unique, and hand-made.

Dress: Gap
Earrings: annie, Tree and Kimball
Shoes: hand me downs

Do a dance, skip down the hall, throw your hair in a ponytail... it is Friday.

I'm Just a Jerk

2011-03-23T08:00:00.002-05:00

No, I'm not just quoting Steve Martin because he's funny. I forgot my mother's birthday. Saying that I feel awful, does not even begin to express how I feel. No good excuses.

Please excuse my current mood to explain why I'm not choosing to wax poetically about my clothing.

Top: Hand me down
Pants: Lands' End Canvas
Oxfords: E-bay
Necklace: thrifted
Bracelet: gift

There is life from behind the computer

2011-03-21T08:00:00.010-05:00

I want to give a huge thank you to everyone who read my last post (all 6 of you). Thank you for celebrating with me that I am finally things are going to be okay. Due to some major lifestyle changes that had to happen, I will definitely say it was all for the better.

I don't have many pictures from my weekend. I tried to spend as much time away from my computer as possible. Got my floors mopped, went to a vegan cookout (and I still like meat), went for a 2.5 mile "strenuous" hike (it was labeled strenuous), made some chicken tortilla soup, and watched the rest of season 5 of Supernatural. Sam had all of Sunday off, it was fan-freaking-tastic.

mmmm... sangria

Can you figure out this puzzle.... the last part does not mean to the shoe department. Sam thought that's what it meant but he was wrong.

My cup of coffee on Sunday. Sam and I were listening to Elvis Costello, can you tell?

Weekend can you stick around for a few more days?

I've Been Lacking Soul

2011-03-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

Our lives are filled with things we can barely remember how we existed and functioned before we had it. Whether its an iphone, or the internet in general, or sporks, our lives are dramatically different from when we first started. For years, I have struggled with feeling peace. Growing up, I constantly felt out of place in a small town. In college, I never felt a peace about my educational choice or about who I was. After college, I struggled on a daily basis to grasp onto peace. In my head, peace is a tiny place where things just feel right. Things fall into place, and you can smile and laugh with freedom.

I first searched for peace through religion. I thought peace would come through going to church, saying the right things, singing the right songs, and that these things would lead me to peace. However, I ended up being petrified to allow my real self to shine because I didn't fit this picture I had in my head of the perfect Christian. (By the way, yes, I am a Christian, but I prefer to talk about this on a more personal level than on my blog since this blog is about fashion, style, and life). I was ashamed of who I was and completely over-ridden by guilt. I was also incredibly judgemental and closed-minded. I slowly abandoned "religion" or what I knew of it. I wanted authenticity and learned that I could be me. And that being me, the real me, shit on the walls and all better reflected God to others than any amount of theology book I could have read.

I began to abandon my search for peace. Sometime close to a year ago, I gave up on finding peace and decided I would just wallow in the fact that I couldn't shop or that I was working somewhere that I felt so out of place and different. A common theme in my life is that I just feel different from other people. I am painfully introverted and I over-share in order to appear more out-going than I am. I go through days when I don't feel good enough, smart enough. My dear friend Juli calls this the bastard-self. Its that voice in your head that pokes and prods you making you feel like shit, and making you cry. However, as I started to share my life with people, and let people in (this definitely includes anyone who reads my blog), the bastard-self didn't have a lot to poke with. That was until recently.

I have not been sharing a lot. I have been holding a lot in and not expressing my emotions here. I haven't been writing in a way that makes me feel raw and happy. I comment about something I'm wearing, talk about the weather... and its mediocre. It is boring. And let me tell you, this lady is not mediocre or boring. There is something that has allowed me to pause, reflect and take inventory. I've been able to sort things and organize them so that I can find peace. And this has been working out. I do a lot of praying when I'm working out. A lot of it involves swear words, and maybe some bargaining involving me giving up ice cream (or Mexican food) if I can just lift my arms over my head one more time. But nothing gets my blood flowing like yoga. I go to a yoga class once a week through my gym at work. It is one of those moments where I can meditate. Where I am encouraged to think without words, but to really be able to drink in my thoughts. God definitely shows up. Today, we were prepping for backbends (because our class is rabid for them) and as we inched closer and closer to the moment we exploded up into a back bend, I got incredibly giddy. When we laid down on our backs on the mat, I just started laughing. But I wasn't the only one. I laughed a deep belly laugh, full of excitement, joy, and peace. Even though my shoulder muscles are sore from being pushed to their limit, I found a little touch of peace.

I'm discovering peace and what it means to me in a way that is concrete. I don't like hypotheticals or lofty goals and ideas. I am all about practicality and how things can easily be adapted to life. I'm at peace with my body. I'm at peace with my finances (well, kind of haha). I'm at peace with my wardrobe (sometimes). I'm at peace with my relationships and friendships. I'm at peace with everything that happened last year. I'm excited for what finding peace means. I don't think it will be this sudden light, but more like a gradual illumination. I don't know how I functioned without peace, but I do know that it isn't hard to find it just in case I lose it again.

Productive

2011-03-14T07:00:00.003-05:00

For those of you who care (you are reading this so I'm assuming you care), I had an incredibly productive weekend, although boring. Definitely the highlight being the 74 degree weather on Saturday which created the perfect atmospheric conditions for hot dogs on the grill and beer at noon. I'm not sure what exact barometric pressure coincides with drinking a beer at noon.

My to-DONE list:

-start my compost bin (and continue to add goodies to it)

-bag up dead leaves collecting in my back door walkway (found three earthworms for compost bin!)

-buy soap nuts

-replace air filter

-do 5 loads of laundry (some where small)

-put away said loads

-wash ALL of my pairs of tights (by hand)

-vacuum the house

-did my dishes

-organized my underwear drawer (socks, stuff, stuff, and tights)

-hem my pants

-mend a sweater

-mend a slip

-make tuna fish salad

I was under the impression that it would be a rainy day in Nashville on Sunday, but it was not. Just gray. Once finished with everything, I watched The Runaways and The Virgin Suicides. Now it is time to go to bed and get this week started (I'm writing this at night).

Necklace: vintage, Chicago

Shirt: J.Crew

Skirt: thrifted, Austin

Boots: Anthropologie

Belt: J.Crew

Blog Ladies I Love

2011-03-09T22:22:00.000-06:00

I spend a lot of time NOT reading blogs, but when I do end up reading, I always, ALWAYS read what these ladies have to say.

You know its love when you post a picture of the two of you even when its really unflattering for you. Reasons why I love Nickie? She's a total bad ass, she's a fashion designer, and even though she's a total bad ass, she's such a sweet friend. The first night we hung out, she made sure I got my drunky-self back to my friend's place in Park Slope from who knows where. She told me the dangers of bed bugs in the subways. She's honest and I adore her.

If I had to have a crush on someone's hair, it would be Juli's. Seriously though, she has amazing hair, and amazing style. Juli was one of the first fashion bloggers I started following, her style is unique and attainable. I love that she is a rabid thrifter and can put some of the best outfits together.

Grace talks about budgeting and finance, and that takes some balls. Not only do I admire (and aspire) to her saving mentality, I think she is an excellent writer with a unique voice. I enjoy actually reading her blog and listen to what she has to say.

Mel. Not only do I admire and respect her as a blogger/professional woman (has a full time job, boyfriend, a life, AND a blog), but she's been such a great friend. It is hard to explain and put into words without getting incredibly emotional but I am so thankful for her friendship and for what it has meant to me.

Robyn and I talk every single day. (Thank goodness for gchat and for her, don't know how I'd get through my work day). She listens to me complain about just about everything, we gab about the crazies on The Bradelor. We dish on our favorite (and not so favorite) bloggers. But, what you may not know about Robyn is that she is incredibly talented and smart business woman. I've never told her this but I really admire her. She is very thoughtful and dedicated to her business. She works more than full-time and has done such a fantastic job. She's also incredibly funny and honest. She also broke my blog... kidding... well not, she did but its okay because she left me a hilarious voicemail and it was an easy fix.

So, when you just don't feel like posting another round of pictures of yourself in your backyard, it helps to talk about the people that you love for one reason or another. Maybe I'll do this more often. Because there are lots of other people that I love!

Poor Little Monday

2011-03-07T21:33:00.000-06:00

I had this whole idea baking in the oven last week that all of my outfits would consist of completely monochromatic looks this week. I figured I could do black, gray, and then yellow. However, an all gray outfit is actually a little difficult to pull off. That and I just didn't feel like myself in it. The thing is, I like a little color. I didn't get around to the all yellow because the shirt I wanted to wear was dirty and needed to be washed. Oh... well.

One thing I forgot to mention on Friday is that, this is my new hair cut! It isn't too different, just a nice trim and I decided to keep my bangs. I asked Amanda if she could do straight across but still make it so I could part my hair on the side... What a genius! I love it.

When I wear all black, a feel a little bit like the Addam's Family. On one hand it looks incredibly professional and put together, on the other hand, I could wear pig tails and turn my toes in and not only look like a fashion blogger (badum ching) but also look like Wednesday Addam's.

Hi Wednesday, meet your older sister... Monday.

Cardigan: Gap (replaced the buttons on it though)
Blouse: Target
Skirt: thrifted
Belt: thrifted
Shoes: Nine West
Fishnets: I got them at Kohl's I think...

Could You Be Any Slower?

2011-03-04T07:00:00.000-06:00

I took these pictures on Wednesday. I only had three shots from this day because it was WAY cold that morning. I am not wearing stockings of any sort and let's get real... I was cold.

Dear Friday,

Although, you took your time getting here, I am so glad you decided to show up. You will fill today with finishing up projects, taking out the trash, working out, and perhaps a little laundry. Who has two thumbs and is excited for a lazy Friday evening? This girl.

Sweater: Urban Outfitters

Skirt: Gap (seriously old though)

Shoes: thrifted

Necklace: gift from Sam

PS- Wednesday was Texas Independence Day. It is a glorious day when Texans officially created the state cuisine of Tex-Mex oh and Texas was no longer a part of Mexico. It officially became its own country and that is why the Texas flag can be flown at the same height as the US flag.

I Love Citron

2011-03-02T07:00:00.002-06:00

Right now, I'd rather be spending time with my boyfriend. So that is what I'm going to do. Even though as I was editing these pictures he looks at them and says, "Your drain is clogged." I start freaking out thinking something is showing that shouldn't be. I ask him, "What do you mean by that?" and he said, "On your gutter, its clogged." Oh... phew, just that.

I love this outfit. In fact, I wore it twice in two weeks. Only one picture though.

Also, check out my bike! (hint: they are on my ears)

Finally, gin may effect your blogging if you drink it while you blog.

Top: Target
Belt: Vested Bee Vintage
Skirt: thrifted, picked out by my mom
Shoes: hand me down from Adrienne
Earrings: Old Made Good

One more thing, I loved reading all the comments from Monday. I wanted to clarify, there are not many places in Nashville that I avoid as far as safety goes. Trust me you don't want to know the crime rate where I live. In complete honesty, I avoid Green Hills like the plague. One of my best friends lives there (and I still love her despite that haha) so its not totally unavoidable. The traffic is awful. It once took me 20 minutes on an exit ramp to get to the road because of the Beib movie.

An Interest in Cultural Boundaries

2011-02-28T07:00:00.003-06:00

I have something completely unrelated to clothing to discuss. I want to explore an idea that started with my on Friday night. I was getting my hair cut (no pictures of it yet) and discussing with my hair stylist about the differences between East Nashville and the rest of Nashville. Much like other large cities, Nashville has different neighborhoods with VERY different groups of people comprising those neighborhoods. It ranges everywhere from wealthy-socialites, to hippies, to young urban professionals, and hipsters. However, East Nashville is a little bit of an anomalie to that. People who live in East Nashville don't like to "cross the river". The city is bisected by the Cumberland River that runs north of downtown (aka honky tonk town?). Before I moved to East Nashville, I never thought I would become that person. That person being, one to rarely cross the river except for my job. It is like living in Brooklyn and never going to Manhattan. While the "west side" boasts many luxuries such as Whole Foods, chain restaraunts (and lots of unique local ones too), expensive shopping malls, the good movie theaters, Target; the "east side" hosts hot chicken shacks, laid back bars, and overall an ecclectic community.

The reason I write about this is because this past Friday, I had a jarring experience that left me loathing a certain area of Nashville, and a certain type of people that run rampant in Nashville. I guess the good news is, that at least Sam and I tried something new. Are there places in your city that you avoid?

Dress: vintage, Local Honey
Tights: mocha, We Love Colors
Necklace: heirloom costume jewelery
Shoes: Dillard's

This dress is from my favorite vintage store in Nashville. One of the reasons to cross the river (among others). Happy Monday!

PS- I have a girl scout cookie problem... anyone else?

Let's Talk Moolah on Money Smart Fashion

2011-02-24T11:59:00.000-06:00

Do you guys know Grace? Well you should! Grace has a fantastic blog about finance and fashion called Money Smart Fashion. She gives real-life advice and tips on how to use your money wisely. I am constantly encouraged by what she writes and I think she's great.

A few months ago she e-mailed me and asked me about money! Well, today my answers to her questions are posted on her blog. So get over there already!

PS - I'm taking the week off from dear old blog. I am just a little bit above normal busy and still need to cling to my sanity. I'll be back next week, and I'll be wearing clothes. I mean, I wear clothes most of the time (I know sassy). But on my blog, I will definitely be wearing clothes and they will be pretty amazing.

Tangerine Dreams

2011-02-18T12:50:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday folks! I don't know about you, but this week has been a strange one for me. I also want to confess that I have not been giving as much to my blog as I should. I realize that my writing hasn't been what it was in the past. It has been difficult to share some of the things going on in my life because a lot of it is deeply personal. I have been struggling with sharing on this blog.

A lot of my stress and worry has been due to financial stuff. I am struggling to figure out how to budget my money and my time. Don't worry this funk isn't just effecting my blog, my house is a mess too. So even while you guys are struggling to read the monotonous language and silly anecdotes, I'm tripping over my boots and my kitchen smells like old cheese. (TMI?)

In other news, I really liked my outfit on Wednesday. This yellow skirt just looks so great with stripes! Talk about a pop of color!

Striped Top: Lands' End Canvas
Skirt: vintage
Shoes: Urban Outfitters
Scarf: gift from Lizzy Brookes

Its the weekend, and I'm kicking it off with eating left over chips in the employee break area. I like to scavenge... keeps me from going to Wendy's.

This One is for You, Mom and Dad

2011-02-16T07:00:00.003-06:00

My parents love my blog (heck my dad even thinks I'm funny), but they do often say that I don't take pictures of me smiling. Well, here ya go, an entire shoot of me smiling. I have a lot of stories to tell today and I want to get started because if I don't I might just explode or fall asleep.

This Saturday, Sam and I went to Fanny's. Now what is great about Fanny's, is that they carry Diamond Star Halo vintage and guitars. Sam is a musician and loves to play on different guitars. While I'm perusing the AMAZING vintage, Sam is serenading the whole store, while his guitar gently weeps. It is the perfect place for us to hang out because it meets both of our desires. Afterwards we can gush to eachother about clothes and guitars.

This skirt is making its debut on the blog even though I've had it for awhile, and I've worn it a lot. It is my own little piece of Nickie from Wild as a Mink right here.

My friend Karen (a frequent commenter on here, but she's totally an IRL friend), had her baby today! I'm so excited to meet their daughter. My friends had this great idea at Karen and her husband's baby shower. They passed out nips of liquor (the kind that are $.99 ya know) and gave us the rule that when they had the baby, we were too all toast to them no matter where we are. I picked Goldschlager because I was sure I would have some Dr. Pepper around (my favorite drink combo). I didn't, so I just shot it. Cinnamon-ee and goldish.

And, now I'm writing this the night before it goes up and I'm exhausted. To bed it is.

Cardigan: Urban Outfitters
Blouse: Target
Skirt: Swappy Seconds, Betsey Johnson
Shoes: Nine West via DSW

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

Although, sadly, my Valentine has to work tonight, I will be enjoying a few things that just make Valentine's Day special.

Chocolate

What kind of girl doesn't love chocolate? Olive and Sinclair chocolate is made in my neighborhood in East Nashville. They have the best labels, and their chocolate is seriously tasty. Salt and Pepper is my favorite.

Red

Valentine's Day is a great day to wear something red, or to buy something red. I bought a red crock pot on Sunday and I fully intend on using today to make myself a tasty dinner. Which I'll enjoy drinking some red wine and watching the Bachelor, where he gives out red roses.

Love

I think this statement soap from Kala Style says it all. Also, it smells AMAZING. I picked it up this weekend while Sam and I headed to the Green Wagon to pick up some kombucha and just enjoy the fantastic weather.

When we show love to others, we bring something beautiful to them. I hope that today, whether you have a Valentine or if you are appreciating your single-hood, you can be surrounded and reminded of Love.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Four minutes

2011-02-09T07:00:00.001-06:00

Oh the things I do for my blog... I was running incredibly behind yesterday morning. I had exactly four minutes to take pictures, bundle up, and then jet off to work. I was actually surprised that any of the four shots I got turned out.

So I have a new pose, its the "turn to the side and lift my heel pose". You can't see what I'm wearing, but I look pretty. Ya know, this outfit could have easily fit into my no shopping phase. Is it weird that I describe my closet as pre-no shopping and post-no shopping? I noticed I have been wearing a lot of my new clothes and not a lot of my pre-no shopping clothes. That isn't true actually, I have been wearing a lot of my pre-no shopping clothes, I just don't photograph them. It has definitely been interesting analyzing my habits of wearing or not wearing clothing since my year ended. My mind races through reasons behind why I excitedly wear my new duds and just wear my old duds. There is an excitement there, when wearing new clothes. I wish I just felt great because I look great.

Sweater: Urban Outfitters
Shirt: vintage, gift
Skirt: Made by me
Bird belt: Fred Flare
Tights: Mocha Tights c/o We Love Colors (they surprised me with an additional pair of these tights!)
Shoes: Etienne Aigner

A little off schedule

2011-02-07T21:11:00.000-06:00

Probably one of my favorite pictures of Sam and I. This was back in 2007, and it is crazy how different we both look and how different we both are.

So my weekend was crazy and I didn't really get a chance to take pictures of what I was wearing (Saturday was a pj day f'reals) and Sunday was spent drinking and dreaming of bean dip. I'm a little off my blogging schedule, but I'll be back on Wednesday.

Enjoy the eye candy that is me and Sam. We are pretty adorable, right?

And yes, my roommates and I used to drink a lot of Red Stripe... a lot of Red Stripe.

Glorious Friday

2011-02-04T07:00:00.003-06:00

Friday. Its here. This day is today. And on that note, I have not much else to say.

Jacket: H&M
Dress: made by me
Belt: vintage
Necklace: gift from Sam (isn't it amazing?)
Socks: AA thigh highs
Boots: Anthropologie

Witchy Woman

2011-02-02T07:00:00.001-06:00

This may be the most haunting photo shoot I have done, ever. Usually, I try and play up the quirkiness, but this just turned out a lot more somber than I thought it would. The funny thing is this outfit is mostly comfort. A maxi skirt and a giant leopard print cape that feels as soft as a blanket means I could easily crawl under my desk and take a nap (although I didn't).

I touched up my roots this weekend and revamped my hair. It looks a lot brighter in the pictures than it does in real life. Or maybe it doesn't? It could just be that vibrant? I'm asking all of you like you have seen me in real life in the past three days...

Finally, the bolo. Sam's mother gave it to me for Christmas (along with one that has square dancers on it!). I really love it and think its beautiful.

Cape: Urban Outfitters (Deena and Ozzy I think)
Shirt: Anthropologie
Dress worn as a skirt: thrifted
Bolo: gift
Shoes: Toms

PS- This outfit was not incredibly work appropriate due to my footwear but, my muscles are killing me. Anyone have any tips on how to not feel like you've been stabbed in every muscle that you work out?

PPS- Happy Groundhog Day! I hope Phil hangs out and stays a while. Maybe I'll take him out to tea and convince him to keep winter at bay and bring on spring.

Where Did I Put Those Girl Scout Cookies?

2011-01-31T07:00:00.003-06:00

Are my girl scout cookies over there?

Oh dear what will I do without them?

I'm so sad.

Wait, what is that you say giant right shin muscle? (seriously, I could probably pull a truck with it)

I'll get them soon and just stand on the wall and look adorable?

Okay!

Now, that was a bit silly...

Jacket: Gap, but probably 5 years old.

Shirt: Urban Outfitters

Skirt: Urban Outfitters

Socks: Rolled down knee highs, We Love Colors, in gold

Shoes: ebay, Naturalizer

Coral Lipstick and Liz Lemon

2011-01-28T07:00:00.000-06:00

I am never usually one to brag but... okay I am. Today (Thursday not Friday morning when this is being posted), the temperature reached in Nashville was somewhat balmy. My ankles weren't frozen and ashy like the winter tundra that is surrounding me. In fact, I don't think this winter tundra made it past 10 am.

A few weeks ago I inspired a coral obsession with Robyn for her Friday post. I was telling her that I wanted to go put on coral lipstick, so I got up from my desk and put it on. This color makes me feel like Barbie. Its very corally pink but subtle. Also, I kind of remind myself of Liz Lemon in this outfit... At least I said that to someone at work today and they agreed and laughed.

I'm glad that its Friday. I plan to spend the weekend sewing and napping.

Shirt: vintage
Sweater: hand me down
Pants: Gap
Shoes: some boutique in Austin

*apparently, I was also feeling a little jazzy. Looking back, I am not sure why.

Eye of the Tiger or Orange You Glad I Didn't Say...

2011-01-26T07:00:00.001-06:00

When Sam and I end up playing Rock Band together, for some reason when our band is on tour, I always end up singing Eye of the Tiger three times, at least. I'm excellent at it though. That's all I have to say about that.

So I hinted in Monday's post about having a pretty cruddy Friday. Most of it was my own fault... not waking up on time, not picking my clothes out the day before, not washing my hair, worrying about the ice on the road... so by the time I actually got on the road, I realized I had left my shoes at my house. My rain boots are not work appropriate. It's not like they have chippendale's dancers on them, but they are just pink, printed and loud. Yes, I am making up excuses as to why I bought this dress. But, I will say the following; it is super super on sale right now, I had been wanting it for a while and had been watching it. I was weak yet hopeful on Friday. So, I bought it. I guess because of the desire for it, it wasn't completely un-meditated. Its not like I bought something crazy expensive. But that is just it. The cost of an item is not my problem... its the sum of all the items. I do love the dress though. But, I did learn that it is so easy for me to slip back into that habit.

Also, these tights are "rust" but I don't know if they could get any MORE orange. I like it though. It worked. And these boots are making their blog debut but I've been wearing them for a while. I really wanted a pair of black boots, but wanted some that looked a little tough. Lace ups on the back definitely equal "tough" and a little bit of "don't mess with this".

Cardigan: Gap, but I replaced the buttons
Dress: Kensie (get it here)
Belt: J.Crew
Tights: Rust, We Love Colors
Boots: DSW

Finally, I picked the winner for the Shabby Apple Giveaway. Just wanting to hear back from the winner before I announce it.

Weekly Money Check-Up

2011-01-24T16:24:00.002-06:00

Friday night, Sam and I went to a benefit show for Nashville Rescue Mission. We danced. We drank. We socialized. We are hipsters, for sure.

1. The most I’ve spent this last week was on a vacuum cleaner. I'm 26 years old and have never owned a vacuum cleaner. My floors were depressingly dirty, so I bought one from Target. It is yellow and I may take pictures with it.
2. Today I feel fine towards money. I get paid on Friday, I have a third of my rent stored up from last paycheck. I paid the equivalent of a student loan payment this month. I got a deferrment when I lost my job and will have to start making payments again in March. One of my little goals is to be able to afford those payments. I also switched to ebills so I can make sure that I get all my bills in one place. I'm really looking foward to tax refund time. I did retail therapy last week. My Friday was going pretty bad. I forgot my shoes at my house, which means I was going to have to wear my dog-ugly rain boots around the office. Totally not profresh. Thankfully, my co-worker is my shoe size and had a pair I could wear. So, I bought a dress. And I need to deal with that.

3. Money can’t buy happiness. One free/inexpensive thing I did last week that made me happy was changed my own oil. Trust me, I wish I could get everyone I know to change their own oil instead of going to some quick change place where they charge you way too much. I bought my oil and oil filter for $17.99. It takes less than a half hour to get under the car drain everything and change it all out. I borrowed the tools from Sam. I also cleaned my air filter (I have a K&N) and checked all my fluids. I also made my dad really proud.

4. I will consider this week a success if I start back up on my sewing projects!

5. My favorite way to relax is either yoga, a glass of wine, and/or watching Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations on Netflix. As crazy as it sounds to excersize as a way to relax, it really is, it is the ultimate anti-stress. This can also include dancing my tush off like I did on Friday night.

The weekly money check-up is part of a series on My Pretty Pennies.

Perfectionnement cheveux fille française

2011-01-21T07:00:00.003-06:00

(Perfecting French girl hair)

Several years ago, when I first watched the Science of Sleep I didn't get it. However, over the years the more I have watched it the more I have become fascinated with all things French. One night while I couldn't fall asleep I was perusing the how-to videos on luckymag.com and ran across one identifying French girl beauty. There is something about it that is so effortless. The imperfect perfection of "I just rolled out of bed looking like this, and I went out on my balcony to smoke a cigarette" is the type of look I was going for here (minus the smoking a cigarette). I followed the instructions in the video below to attain somewhat the sense of French girl beauty.

I kept my outfit simple and effortless. I finally found the striped shirt of my dreams. Perfect weight, perfect cut, perfect price! I went with a pencil skirt to make it look polished, yet tried to keep as much unkempt-ness into the look.

Striped top: Lands' End Canvas (seriously in love)

Pencil Skirt: Hand me down from Tori

Black socks: American Apparel

Scarf: umm... I can't remember.

Boots: Anthropologie

PS- I often get a lot of comments about my glasses when I wear them. I actually have to wear glasses, but they are still rather new to me. I didn't have to start wearing glasses until 2 1/2 years ago when my eyesight started to get bad. When I am just hanging out, I don't have to wear them but if I am driving, working, reading... then I must. They are Ray Bans style number 5162. I think the color is named Espresso Tortoise Shell?

Don't forget... Today is the last day to enter my giveaway from Shabby Apple. Remember you have 9 chances to win this!

Giveaway from Shabby Apple! - CLOSED

2011-01-18T09:00:00.005-06:00

I am so excited to be offering all of you the chance to win the gorgeous Cider dress from Shabby Apple. Shabby Apple specializes in beautiful women's dresses in amazing styles. I first found out about Shabby Apple a little over a year ago and fell in love with their clothing. Each of their pieces are instantly chic. Too bad I was on a shopping ban! So how do you win this dress? There are many ways to win.

How to enter:

Go visit the Shabby Apple.

Leave a comment with your favorite dress.

This will get you 1 entry.

Tweet about this giveaway: "Want to win a dress from @shabbyapple ? Enter to win with @alysonisneat http://dlvr.it/DZT9B !"

This will get you 1 entry.

Tell me how you follow my blog in your comment.

This will give you 2 additional entries.

Finally, blog about this giveaway and your favorite Shabby Apple dress and you will get an additional 5 entries!

Am I crazy? Maybe a little... I'm giving you 9 chances to win. If that isn't love, then I don't know what is.

This contest is open to US residents only. Must leave a comment with a way to contact you in order to win. The contest will close at 11:59 PM on Saturday January 21st. Each entry will be given a number and then chosen via random.org. So what are you waiting on? Head on over to the Shabby Apple and comment already!

A HUGE thank you to the folks at Shabby Apple for offering this give away. It is an honor. They are also giving all of my readers an exclusive 10% off on any purchase with the code alysonisneat10off.

Let's Take a Look at the Facts

2011-01-18T07:00:00.002-06:00

I was talking with Robyn, like a do everyday. We got on the discussion somehow of how many pictures she takes versus how many pictures I take. I'm not sure if you want to know what type of gear I use, or my picture taking skills... but keep reading and you are about to find out.

Camera I use: A Nikon Cool Pix L20. Yes, I use a point and shoot on a tripod. It has a simple 10 second timer. I take about 6 or 7 photos in my shoots, on a cold day... that shrinks to about 3 or 4.

I edit my photos using Preview.

Why am I confessing all of this? I am not sure. I guess, I just want you to know that you don't have to have a super expensive camera to take good photos. You just have to know your equipment.

Can we talk about this dress (and not talk about my kitchen and laundry room?)? Great! This weekend I went to the fantastic Local Honey and picked up this dress. Beautiful, brown, and paisley.

Dress: vintage, Local Honey
Tights: Mocha c/o We Love Colors (We Love Colors sent me a back up pair of mocha tights)
Boots: Anthropologie
Necklace: family heirloom

By the way, I have a pretty fantastic giveaway coming up later this morning. Just get ready... it is absolutely amazing and I cannot wait to tell you all about it!

Polar Bears

2011-01-17T07:00:00.001-06:00

Monday is here again. Although my Saturday was incredibly productive... laundry, hang out with Lisa, dinner, shopping*, coffee**, nap, 80s dance party***... My Sunday was a complete waste. Oh well, there is always next Sunday right?

For this outfit, I feel like I was channeling Rachel from Glee. The sweater? If you went to Urban Outfitters at all over the Christmas season, you probably saw it. I was smart and asked for it for Christmas.... and I love it. It is great because it looks more sophisticated than you think. I know I know, I'm 26 years old and wearing an animal sweater? But really, unless you really look at it, you don't even realize its a polar bear... with claws.

Sweater: Urban Outfitters
Dress (work as a skirt): courtesy of Kristin of Leproust (miss her)
Tights: We Love Colors in Navy
Shoes: Target

*My favorite place to shop, Local Honey had a grand re-opening/shop-warming party on Saturday night. Tons of fun and killer cocktails made with Hawaiian Punch.
**Well actually it was hot chocolate.
***I don't typically go to 80s dance parties... just got invited to one. It was also a goth night too. Talk about people watching. Wow! I wore the outfit above and claimed I was New Wave 80s grunge?

The Purpose of Winter is Snow

2011-01-11T07:00:00.002-06:00

The contrast between the last post I had up and today's post are a constant reminder of why there is a magnificent phenomenon known as snow. In the winter in Nashville at least, there is no evergreen vegetation; unlike my hometown in East Texas, where the pine trees were a'plenty. The trees are bare branched and the fields of grass are brown and sickly. Of course being a southern girl, snow is a miracle. It was a rare occassion to spend winters sledding, or to even throw a snowball. I have only built a few snow men in my time. I know that when I wake up and the ground is covered in this beautiful snow, the day won't be so bad.

Top: J. Crew
Necklace: Vintage
Belt: thrifted, J.Crew
Skirt: made by me
Tights: Target
Leg warmers: knitted by my mom
Boots: Anthropologie

The Skirt of Fate

2011-01-07T07:00:00.003-06:00

Are you ready for a story that will blow your mind and may even cause you to believe in a higher power? Several months ago, before I could purchase clothing again, I began to loathe going to Target. Why? Because of this skirt. I saw it and wanted it when it was full price. A few weeks later, it went on sale.... It was like the skirt was taunting me with it's orange price cut sticker. I would run my hands down the cascading ruffles... I'm serious. Ask Sam. Ask Lisa (she's on twitter). I loved this skirt. And just like a butterfly (thank you Mariah), if you really love something you have to learn to let it go. So I did.

But in the back of my mind, this skirt lingered. Very rarely do I find that I remember the clothing that got away... so why did my mind always come back to, "I really loved the black ruffle skirt from Target"? I have no idea.

About two weeks ago, Julie from Orchid Grey updates her blog shop. She posts THIS SKIRT.

Angels sang, bells rang, fireworks went off... I might have even teared up a little. Of course, I bought it. This may sound silly but this really proved something to me. I know... I know...

"Come on... it is just a skirt."

Alas, there is a lesson to be learned here. If you are in to fashion and clothing it is really easy to get caught up in the frantic consume mentality. I definitely was for a long time and I can say in all honesty that not shopping for a year broke me of that. There is always a flash sale, free shipping, a coupon code, a normal sale, a contest, etc. There is always a black skirt, a pair of tights, shoes, a vintage sweater, soft slouchy t-shirts, jeans, an awesome dress. There is always someone pimping out some website, re-branding, store launch, boutique opening. Just because you miss out on one, another one will come right along. But the things that you want, and I mean you really want them. The things that you search for and that you hunt for. When you do come across those things, it is a different feeling entirely.

So that is my story. Yes, it is incredibly strange for me to have this much wrapped up in a skirt but... isn't it way cute? Hope you all have a fantastic weekend!

Coat: Birthday gift from Sam (ladies I know you are jealous, my man has great taste)

Scarf: Deena and Ozzy, Urban Outfitters

Top: Thrifted

Skirt: Orchid Grey blog shop

Tights from hell: Gap

Shoes: Thrifted

Just Imagine This on Wednesday

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

I am working against the clock here so this will have to be quick. Getting back into the swing of things around here and also after several lovely wonderful days off has got me feeling a little sluggish. It is nice to know after waking up an hour late, I can still get dressed and ready and be at work on time. All that to say, I didn't get shots of my outfit yesterday (which is sad because it was awesome). So I'm shooting these this morning and will hopefully get them posted up this morning as well. (Actually I wasn't able to get this up yesterday morning, and then last night blogger was messing up)

By the way, I have a crush on my belt. I wear this belt a lot. I picked it up while Nickie was in town from Fabiola at Vested Bee Vintage. At the time, I really wanted a brown belt. I love this belt.

Cardigan: Urban Outfitters
Dress: Gap (old faithful dress... mmm I love it)
Tights: Old Navy
Shoes: DSW
Belt: Vested Bee Vintage

2011, Let's get these resolutions on!

2011-01-03T09:00:00.000-06:00

a very happy new year from Sam and I

So... my new year's was great. I drank some champagne, wore something sparkly, kissed my man at midnight, and overall had a pretty good time. I have the day off, which I am so excited about! But first, let's talk new year's resolutions. What kind of goals does one make after not shopping for a whole year? I'm not going to lie, once I lost my job, a lot of my goals I had set for myself flew out the window... So I will carry those on into the new year. In no particular order, here are my new year's resolutions (crossing fingers that I can keep them).

Be nicer. I am going to give this one a shot. I have been reading Gunn's Golden Rules by Tim Gunn and he makes a lot of points in this book about how being nice to people is a good thing. We all know I can be a little snarky, so this year I'm going to try being nice to people. Unless, someone deserves a good talking to, then I will kindly and plainly say why I think they are mean, rude, etc. I of course, still have standards.

Get organized. Really, the last frontiers of organization go to my sewing nook and my dresser. My sewing nook is a disaster. I would like some shelving or bins to hide stuff while I haven't gotten around to it.

A six pack. Yes this sounds silly but, I know I can do it. This past year I have slowly been trying to get back into better shape. This includes eating less pizza, doing more cardio. Even if I just get a light six pack, I think I will be happy.

Go visit. I definitely want to take more trips to visit friends and family this year. I want to go back to New York. I will need to make a trip to Portland. Sam and I want to take a trip to Austin. This probably means I should also start saving some money.

That's all. They are a little ambiguous, yes but I'll make tiny little goals to help me achieve the overall bigger picture. For now, I think I'm going to lay in bed for a little longer.

PS- My dress is vintage, and AWESOME!

Five Things I Am Glad Are Over Friday

2010-12-31T10:15:00.001-06:00

In honor of one of the bestest blog friends a girl could ask for... Yes, I'm talking to you Robyn. I'm going to get this end of the year wrap up on Twitch Vintage style...

Top 5 Bad Turned Good Things in 2010

1. Losing My Job

Image source

Now looking back on it I can see that I did feel really stuck in my previous job. I'm really happy in my job now... really happy. However, I preface this saying that being on the job hunt sucks. I technically got a huge lesson in failure.

2. Flood

Image source

Being "homeless" while trying to figure out whether our house was going to be livable again, was frightening. I did not handle stress well at that time, and everyday felt like a struggle. But, I learned a lot about myself in this. I got to see how loved I was by my friends and family. Before it was something I took for granted, now its something I dearly cherish.

3. Losing Friends, Losing Loved Ones

Image source

This year there was a lot of loss in the lives of myself and my friends. Whether its loss of relationships, death, growing apart... in some aspect there is good in all of this. When we lose the people we love in these ways, we can see why they were so important to us, and what we loved so much about them. It is also a time to judge how we move on without them in our lives anymore.

4. Goodbye 450 Facebook Friends

Image source

Yes, I deleted 450 "friends" from facebook (aka 450 time suckers). Quick explanation, I went to a university that was one of the first to get facebook. I had over 800 friends from either college or high school or summer camp campers and counselors. As I started going through my news feed, I just got tired of reading either stupid and idiotic political rants, drunken pictures, or updates from people I really don't care about anymore. Curiosity is not enough to keep someone close... (that should be on a poster or something). So I deleted them. I really only wanted to keep people that I genuinely cared about. This is also a bit bigger. The past few years of my life I have been carefully editing acquaintances. My personality type is the one that is introverted and only shares my life with a few people. Sometimes I think my blog is one giant collective person.... So, that is the good that came out of letting go of 450 facebook friends. Besides, I don't want to be reminded of people who either deeply hurt me at some point in my life, or who have no idea that facebook is not an appropriate place to have a debate going on about your personal beliefs. That should be over coffee or margaritas or wine.

5. I didn't shop for a year.

Image source

Uh.. duh of course this makes the cut. At the time it felt awful but then it started to be just fine. But in a bigger way it helped me conquer some major hurdles in my life and I also gave me a chance to start a blog and make some very dear friends. I made friends that I cherish and if it wasn't for this blog, or blogging in general, I wouldn't even know who they are. You ladies know who you are!

So 2010, in some ways you really sucked... a LOT. But I'm glad you happened. Cheers to 2011!!

And sincerely, Happy New Year everyone. So glad I have been able to share this year with you.

Black Velvet Maxi Skirt

2010-12-30T08:00:00.005-06:00

How is everyone's holiday going? I actually really love the time between Christmas and New Year's. I feel a little invincible. So much has happened in 2010 and I'm about to kick it out the door. I am so hopeful for the new year. Just you wait 2011, I have a feeling you are going to spectacular.

My Christmas was great. I flew out on Christmas Eve to visit my parents in Austin. It was incredibly relaxing to just lounge around the house and eat cookies and watch tons of cable television. I miss cable. On the day after Christmas, I got completely caught back up on the last season of Weeds. I got to spend lots of time with parents, and being an only child... I really like that. Anytime I can have all the attention to myself, of course, I totally prefer that.

I have a story for yall today. When I was in junior high and high school, I had this long black maxi skirt. It was stretchy polyester with a split that went right up the front right below my knees. When I walked, the flaps of the split would whip back and make this slapping noise. Although, I hated walking in that skirt, I loved the way it looked. Maxi skirts can look so elegant and feel so casual. Let's take the exhibit above. A black velvet maxi skirt (ahhhh!!!). I feel so classy and meanwhile I am sitting cross legged on my bed still wearing the same skirt (I'm writing this at night). I picked this baby up at Buffalo Exchange in Austin. I think the Buffalo Exchange in Austin is probably my favorite resale store in the world... yep.

Red blazer: Gift from Sam
Gray t-shirt: Lands' End Canvas
Necklace: Beacon's Closet
Maxi Skirt: thrifted, Buffalo Exchange
Flats: Old Navy

By the way, I am slightly obsessed with Lands' End Canvas at the moment. I love all the stuff I got from them. And, they aren't paying me to say any of this, I just really love their stuff... true story.

Fashion Gives Back

2010-12-21T06:30:00.000-06:00

During the Christmas season something that is always on my heart more than just finding gifts for my friends and family is the act of giving The season of Christmas is so much more than just getting the things on our wish list. If anything, this year has taught me that the Christmas season is about hope. The other day I was listening to one of my favorite Christmas carols, "O Holy Night". When the phrase, the "...the thrill of hope..." rang into my ears, it made me start to think. Not only do I want to be thrilled by hope, but I want to share this hope to others.

So instead of another group of blog posts over the newest wishlist, here is something a little different. I asked a few of my closest blog friends if they would be intersted in sharing some different ways that they like to give. One of the greatest things about giving is that there are so many different needs that can be met, that whatever your passion, whatever you enjoy there is a charity that meets that need. Take a moment today and look around at what my friends and I have all given towards and find out ways where you can give. If you don't have an extra few bucks to spare, find a place where you can volunteer. Give someone hope this holiday season.

Something that makes my blood pound in my heart is the thought of injustice happening in the world. When women (or men) are treated unfairly and unjustly, it just makes my blood boil. Now, no matter how much I want to, I can't fight these battles myself, but I can give to others who are fighting these battles. This is why I chose to give towards Invisible Children, a non-profit organization that has helped to restore peace to Uganda. Specifically, I am giving to Grace. Grace is a child mother, when she was captured by the Lord's Resistance Army, she was forced into sex slavery. When she finally escaped, she found out she was pregnant. I will wear this bracelet in remembrance of her story, and of her struggle, but mostly to remind myself of how much we can overcome.

Take a moment today and check out why and where my friends are giving... and if you feel inspired, give to the charity of your choice and leave a comment about it.

Paige of Barefoot & Vintage gave to Casa Pacifica

Indiana of Adored Austin gave to Music for the City

Merl of Clyde's Rebirth gave to a few local shelters where she has received her famous cats, Clyde and Mo.

Nickie of Wild As A Mink gave to Barc Shelter.

Lisa of Archives gave to Dire Straights Animal Companion Rescue

Grace of Money Smart Fashion gave to Last Chance Animal Rescue, Inc.

Robyn of Twitch Vintage gave to All Children's Hospital Pediatric Research

MADChristmas

2010-12-17T09:00:00.001-06:00

Want to know a secret? I have actually never attended a tacky Christmas sweater party. I know... I know. Just add this demerit to my list of non-hipster things. But to be honest, I wore enough tacky Christmas sweaters in my childhood that I don't really want to wear anymore. (I'll try and dig up some while I'm home for Christmas).

Several weeks ago, a friend of mine said to leave this evening open because him and his girlfriend would be hosting a different kind of Christmas party... A Mad Men themed Christmas party. Even though I have committed the ultimate fashion sin and have not seen an episode of Mad Men (its on my list okay!), I was incredibly excited.

I have been planning my outfit for days but just haven't had the time or energy to put together everything so I will definitely be making do with what I have. But what else is a reformed shopaholic to do. I have tons of 60s inspired clothing, and some pretty fantastic make up skills... and I am from Texas... I know how to tease my hair.

So if money were not an option, this would be the outfit I would put together. I am so excited to wear my dress that I made to wear for my birthday party again. I promise to get pictures this time. I promise its way better than the ASOS dress I picked out. The one thing from this selection (okay maybe three things I wish I had) are the green polka dot tights, the gloves, and of course those stellar YSL mohawk shoes. Uh-mazing.

MADChristmas by AlysonIsNeat featuring a metal brooch

ASOS Tailored Short Sleeve Tab Front Tulip Skirt Dress
$55 - asos.com
Asos dresses »

Kate Spade New York - Enormous Swiss Dot Tight (Forest Green) -...
$24 - zappos.com
Green stockings »

Yves Saint Laurent Palais Mohawk suede pumps
$935 - net-a-porter.com
High heel pump »

Gap Glitter wallet
$30 - gap.com
Glitter wallet »

Tribal Post Earring
$14 - urbanoutfitters.com
Post earrings »

Candy Cane Brooch
$10 - urbanoutfitters.com
Metal brooch »

John Lewis Satin Evening Gloves, Black
15 GBP - johnlewis.com
Black gloves »

Outdoor Christmas Decorations - 36" Red Velvet Bow w/Gold Trim
christmaslightsetc.com

What are your plans for the weekend? How many tack Christmas sweaters do you own?

Go out and have a fantastic Friday, drink some eggnog.. go ahead eat those cookies sitting in the office break room. Its Friday! You deserve it.

I told you I love these Mocha Tights

2010-12-16T19:15:00.000-06:00

I really do have more than just one pair of tights, but I really do love these mocha tights. I wear them with just about everything.

Not much to say. It was incredibly gray and disgusting the past two days, so indoor photos will have to do. Honestly this outfit is too great not to photograph. Do you realize only 5 more days until winter solstice and we start getting our daylight back? Ahh! I'm excited.

Top: Roxy
Belt: thrifted, J. Crew
Skirt: made by myself
Tights: Mocha from We Love Colors
Shoes: Ebayed

Just One More Cup of Coffee

2010-12-15T08:00:00.002-06:00

I love a good cup of coffee. In many instances, I own my coffee snobbery. However, my coffee snobbery is well deserved. In college, I volunteered at a coffee shop run by my college ministry where we served some of the finest brew I had ever encountered at the tender age of 19. The company that provided us the coffee made sure that it was fresh roasted and that the farmers who grew the beans were treated more than fairly. When I moved to Nashville and knew I would need a second job, barista-ship was my calling. I started working at a franchise here in Nashville that made sure the beans were top notch. We roasted the beans maybe 15 feet away from where we brewed them. Some people will just drink whatever sludge is hot and caffienated, but when you have had great coffee... Oh, man. You know what origin suits your taste buds. You know what roasts suit those origins best. But most of all, you know the sweet smoothe taste of beans roasted yesterday versus beans roasted (or burnt really), freeze-dried, and vacuum packed last month.

Often I go through phases of wanting something sweet and creamy. My go to flavor is caramel or hazelnut. One of the simple joys in my life is sitting with a giant mug of caramel latte, covered in whip cream, devouring the topping with a spoon as the steamed milk cools. Pure bliss.

When I'm making it in my own kitchen however, my means are simpler. Good coffee (not great) and a little milk go a long way. Definitely kept me warm while taking these glamour shots. I did a little bit of a darker smokey eye than I usually do. Something I've realized I can get away with more with red-hair than with dirty blonde. I used a dark gray plum on my lower lid, with a little purple inside the crease.

By the way, my new favorite sweater says hello. I shall call her Frenchy because I definitely feel so Parisian and chic. Not to mention that this is the softest sweater I own. Don't believe me? Well, if you see me out in public and I'm wearing this sweater... just run up and hug me. For real, I'm serious. I'll probably hug back. PS- check out my major want pants. I eyed these pants for months at G-A-P. These are the boy fit trousers. Right now they are on sale, and they rock.

Sweater: Pins and Needles, Urban Outfitters
Pants: Gap, Boy Fit
Socks: Olive Knee Socks, by We Love Colors
Shoes: Nine West, DSW
Necklace: gift, from Africa

For the record, my two favorite coffee bean origin and roast combinations are French Roast Brazil and a Medium Roast Kenya. Delightful!

My No-Shopping Adventure: Introduction

2010-12-14T08:00:00.002-06:00

When the date finally rolled around for my one year of not buying clothing to be up, I thought there would be this great feeling of freedom. However, the weeks leading up to the end, I was overcome with incredible anxiety. My thoughts were not necessarily on the clothing I was going to buy, it was focused on something totally different. The question that kept coming up in my head and is still coming up is... have I changed? Is one year really enough to break the habits of habitually and compulsively shopping? The honest fact is no. I can better cope with some of these desires, however, that old creeping feeling is still there. It was always there, really.

Throughout my one year, I gave myself plenty of lee-way. I could buy shoes and accessories and I could indulge in buying tons and tons of fabric. Little did I know, all of the hardships this year would hold. This journey did not look at all like I thought it would. It is weird to have expectations, but I really did. I thought I would have all this time and energy to sew. I thought I would be able to have one of my credit cards paid off. However, this journey was more about personal growth than sewing skills and paying off debt.

In the next coming weeks, I will share some hard life lessons I learned this year. I also will share some incredibly helpful style lessons I learned this year as well. This journey was hard, and it is such a joy to share the things I learned about myself with my readers. I know I say this often but it really cannot be said enough, You. Are. Amazing.

Its FREAKING SNOWING YA'LL!

2010-12-13T08:00:00.001-06:00

These pictures are from yesterday. Around noon on Sunday, SNOWfall began. And it continued and continued on into the night. My Texas roots begin to show when it comes to snow though. It is still such a treat to see the ground covered in all the beautiful white snow. Love it.

But, it is cold outside. I have been bundled up inside, drinking hot tea, eating chili, wrapping presents, and watching Now and Then on Netflix.

With it being so cold outside, isn't it fantastic that I got this fabulous new coat? This coat is actually my first purchase in a year. I admired it on anthropologie.com and was so thankful they had it available in the store. I love how it flares out at the hips.

Coat: Anthropologie
Jeans: American Eagle
Boots: DSW
Hat: handmade gift from a friend!

City girl...

2010-11-30T08:00:00.001-06:00

One of the things that I enjoy about my new job is that I kinda feel incredibly adult-ish. I love that during my morning commute I see the Nashville skyline all bright and shiny. Sometimes I look at it and still cannot believe this is where I live. This amazing, quirky city.

Can I just say how obsessed I am with these tights from We Love Colors? I really do not take enough pictures of them. My legs seriously look like I just took a dip in some hot chocolate! The dress? Oh its new. (I love saying that!) Groupon had a great deal for Lands' End Canvas. For just $30 you could get $60 worth of merchandise, including sale. I picked up this dress hoping it was a cotton flannel... however it was just cotton woven. Not bad though, with the right layers, I can wear it on in to winter.

Finally, we must address something I take quite seriously. Bolomania... When Miss Nickie was in town, we headed to a huge vintage yard sale being put on by some of my favorite vintage vendors. I scoured for some interesting necklaces and pins, when I came across two bolos. One, had a scorpion incased in it. Although, I fall under the astrological sign scorpio (uhhh duh!), having an insect around my neck felt a little strange, so I went for the rhinestone counterpart.

Dress: Lands' End Canvas
Blazer: Banana Republic
Bolo: vintage or thrifted... i don't know or care
Tights: Mocha from We Love Colors
Loafers: Target

Mmmm Thanksgiving!

2010-11-29T19:13:00.000-06:00

Happy belated Thanksgiving! I hope everyone had a fantastic holiday and weekend. Sam and I did our Thanksgiving very low key. We had a delicious turkey (which Sam made mostly by himself.. I suggested putting apples as an aromatic). Sam has this amazing turkey recipe where he puts butter under the skin and the covers the whole turkey in bacon.

I made the sides, twice baked potatoes and green beans wrapped in (more) bacon!

Absolutely delicious.

The Only Place I Want to be When I Get Home from Work

2010-11-22T18:45:00.000-06:00

This past week, I think I was still in recovery mode from my birthday weekend. It probably didn't help that I went to see Harry Potter 7.1 at midnight on Thursday. Yes, I am one of those people.

The second picture is how I feel when I get home from work. Oh, and this is my bed. Yes it is as amazingly comfortable as it looks.

Hey... can I tell you a little secret? I went shopping. The funny thing is I've spent all but one gift card in a week... but my closet NEEDED it. I still need to go through and pull out the clothes that I kept just to hoard. I am excited to showcase some of my new stuff on here.

Well, I mentioned last week that there are going to be some changes going on around the blog. The first order of business is a major series regarding all the things I learned about not shopping for a year. Some of it will be about fashion, but get ready to hear about a lot of difficult struggles that happened this year and what came out of them.

Second order of business, I will not be posting outfits as frequently. I realized something. I follow a lot of blogs where blogging is their job. They don't do anything else but blog... and somehow their husbands or boyfriends are professional photographers? Well kids, I'm not that. I was holding myself to the standards of these super bloggers, when the reality is:

I work a full-time job (that is intense and AMAZING). I head to work early and by the time I get off from work its DARK.

The only person who takes my pictures is me (and sometimes Sam). So this means, I have to go out into the park on my lunch break at work and pray that someone doesn't think I'm a lunatic.

I work in a strictly business casual environment. Not only are denim cutoffs just not even an option, shorts period are not an option. Because of the nature of the office I work in, we don't get casual Fridays. But, I actually really love getting dressed and looking profresh each day. And even more so, I really really love my job and the office I work in and the people I work with.

The conclusion? The focus of this blog is going to change slightly. I realized I really LOVE writing about finances especially being someone very fashion forward but on a crazy strict budget. I realized there are SO many young women my age, that struggle with looking boring or like a librarian when they go to work. I also really love talking about work appropriate attire.

So if you want to join me on this ride, buckle your seat belts and hold on because I am excited to see where this takes me.

PS- The outfit.

Bolo (as in bolo-mania): vintage yard sale at Fanny's
Sweater: pins and needles, urban outfitters
Skirt: thrifted, old navy
Shoes: DSW, Nine West

Completed, One Year without Shopping

2010-11-16T08:26:00.000-06:00

I have to make this quick. It is raining like crazy today and I had to leave early for work so I wouldn't get caught in crazy traffic.

I have completed one year of not buying clothing.

It is crazy. I felt like it flew by and I for sure had the load lessened by my wonderful readers and friends. Thank you all for sending me stuff, letting my borrow dresses, swapping with me, sharing with me, giving to me and most of all for supporting me in this.

I can't even begin to process this past year but all I can say is that I had one amazing birthday party that celebrated that this year was over and that 26 is going to be fresh and new.

Oh yeah, and today is my birthday. I celebrated already this morning by getting a bagel. *swoon*

Sweet Like Candy

2010-11-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

And I'm back. I just found my camera cord at about 5:15am this morning. Yes, I'm awake because I really couldn't sleep because I needed to find that cord!

As my year is quickly coming to an end, I've really been thinking a lot lately about the blog. I definitely do not want it to just fall into the masses of blogs where girls take pictures of themselves everyday (oh wait, I already have). I may not post as often. But one thing is for sure, I want to have really great content. Content that I enjoy reading. Features that I enjoy writing.

I have had a lot of trouble actually getting outfit photos in. I leave my house pretty early in order to get to work on time. And then by the time I leave work it is dark. I have had trouble prioritizing lately and I think the main reason why is that getting outside and taking pictures of myself just isn't something I do everyday. I'd much rather spend the 30 minutes eating my lunch with my new co-workers or working out. So who knows. I am definitely still going to try and get pictures when I can, but I'm not going to feel guilty about it if I don't.

I do want to write more content directed at women and attachment to clothing and shopping. I want to talk about money. I want to give great fashion advice. I want to show off my upcoming purchases. I want to feature my friends who blog that I adore. So that's where I'm at.

Five more days....

Sweater: American Eagle
Necklace: local boutique
Skirt: thrifted
Nude fishnets: Kohl's
Booties: Etienne Aigner, Marti and Liz

Remember that time

2010-11-09T13:13:00.000-06:00

... That I didn't blog for a week because I hadn't made time to take pictures of my outfits?]
....That I lost my camera cord?
...That I really need to clean me room?
.... That I was a week away from going an entire year without buying clothing?

All of these things happened today... so you really should remember the time that happened.

As soon as I find my cord to upload my pictures to my computer... trust me... you'll see me in some clothes (old ones at that).

Shedding Some Years

2010-10-28T08:00:00.001-05:00

Well maybe not so much years, but shedding some of the past few months. After my first two days of working at my new job, I realize it is time to shed these past few months that have been nothing but hell. However, I wouldn't take them back for anything. Just a lot of growth and a lot of growing up. I can definitely say, I no longer feel like a child. I definitely feel like an adult after having to deal with so much. I will not let the actions of others (and nature) be an excuse for me to become angry, bitter, or sad.

So I got my hair cut! Not too drastically different... just enough to feel new. I'll have pictures posted tomorrow!

Sweater: Delias
Dress: American Eagle
Necklace: Shop Idee's Closet
Knee Socks: We Love Colors
Boots: Anthropologie

First Day Jitters and Weekend

2010-10-26T08:00:00.002-05:00

What is this? Me in weekend wear! Me on a weekend?! Sam and I checked out the Edgehill Artisan Fair this weekend. We saw many friends, jewelery, and artists. We also got to check out this pizza shop tucked into the buildings. The cool thing about the whole Edgehill area is that it used to be a giant dry cleaning company. Ya know when the say, "We'll need to send this out..."... that type of place.

I literally did not feel like I was in Nashville. I felt transported to Italy and that was a great feeling!

Starting the new job this morning. I am a bundle of nerves and did not sleep well at all. I'm sure it will be fine, so I'm not worried just excited and nervous. I do need to wrap this up because I have to jump in the shower.

Cardigan: Anthropologie
Tank: Thrifted, Buffalo Exchange (Denver)
Jeans: Thrifted, JCrew, Buffalo Exchange (Austin)
Shoes: TJ Maxx, Banana Republic

Weekly Money Check Up & My Favorite Movie

2010-10-25T17:01:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite scenes from one of my favorite movies. Fitting since I'm starting my new job tomorrow... will I be employee of the week?

Weekly Money Check Up is a feature on My Pretty Pennies.

1. The most I’ve spent this last week was on GAS. But the good thing is, I got $.10 off a gallon. I saved a whopping $1.80.... okay so its not whopping but meh.
2. Today I feel hoardish towards money. No, not whorish... I have been such a penny pinching frugal ass. I am reintroducing shopping back into my life in about 3 weeks. I also have to save up for Christmas presents, traveling, and I want to go to New York sometime soon (spring probably).
3. Money can’t buy happiness. One free/inexpensive thing I did last week that made me happy was vegged out and watched a disc of Supernatural with Sam. Nickie will find this hilarious because I brought it up twice while she was visiting but, I recently started watching the show Supernatural and I really love it. I have started from the beginning getting caught up to the present. Disc 6 of Season 1 comes in the mail tomorrow. I've been watching them all through Netflix. It is such a treat because Sam and I both get excited when one comes in the mail, and I usually can't watch it until we can watch it together. Its scary, spooky, and is just a really great show. Sam and I made a bunch of snacks and curled up on my couch and just watched all 4 episodes in a row. Perfect night!
4. I will consider this week a success if I go grocery shopping. I will totally put it off and scrounge around and eat oatmeal for lunch and dinner just to not go to the grocery store.
5. This year for halloween I am dressing up as Alice (in Wonderland), a Blues Brother, or Jill (ya know Jack and Jill). The past two years I have had some awesome costumes. In 2008, Sam and I took Flight of the Conchords as inspiration. He made a helmet of hair and I made my own flight of the conchords t-shirt. We were Brett and Mel. Last year, I went as Sookie from True Blood (and Sam went as a cowboy/burgler). This year has proved difficult as I can't buy anything for a costume! I am kicking myself for donating my costume box this past year. But even thinking about what I had in there is funny... just a bunch of gross formals from 92. What could I have been with that? Oh I did have a coconut bra and grass skirt, but I think the coconut bra was for someone without boobs... aka not me.

Update: I worked out 3 days last week and actually just worked out a second ago. Hooray for pushing yourself!

Would you still be my friend if I wore stirrup jeans?

2010-10-22T10:20:00.002-05:00

When I started telling my friends that one of the first purchases I was going to make after my year was over was a pair of stirrup jeans... I got a lot of funny looks. Personally, I love them. There is something so simple and elegant of the silouette of the leg. Having to chronically worry about my ankles not being slender enough for skinny jeans and always ALWAYS bunching up because my legs are so short.

Confession: I flirted with temptation and actually tried these on last weekend. To say they fit like a dream is a vast understatement. They are like a second skin with an elastic band under my feet. And I realized something. When I worked at Gap, they would have cycles of "specialty denim" also known as "won't sell and then will go on sale". I am just afraid these might fall under that category, so I wanted to do a poll.

Living for the Sun

2010-10-21T08:00:00.002-05:00

Last week I told myself that I was going to start on a weekly routine of picking up my house, doing my chores little by little over the week. Yeah, that hasn't happened. Every night this week I have gone straight from work to hanging out with Sam or friends. I'm craving a night of rest, where I can make me house feel more like home than just a place to hold my stuff.

I'm curious to see how much longer I will be able to take pictures at sunset. I love fall but it also feels me with dread of the winter to come. I am such a sun light junkie. I think this set of shots definitely captures that. This is such a cool little spot and its just across the street from where I park!

I have had this grandpa dolman sleeved sweater for three years. It is usually just the sweater I throw on to feel comfy and cozy in my house, or when I walk out the door to run errands or something. Throwing a belt over it and cinching it up made the outfit though.

Sweater: Covet, Nashville Clothing Company
Dress: Gap
Necklace: family heirloom
Belt: Target
Tights: Urban Outfitters
Boots: Anthropologie

Shades of Gray

2010-10-20T08:35:00.000-05:00

A very gray day. Can you tell how much these photos have been edited? Oh, Sam and I just could not get the settings on my camera to take photos yesterday. Did you know that I only use a point and shoot... oh and that I edit my photos in preview? I'm so low maintenance and cheap.

I'm completely exhausted! Yesterday, after work, Sam and I hit up pint and pie night at my east side eatery, Family Wash. I may have had a Schlafly Pumpkin Ale which has a much higher alcohol content that the typical PBR I drink on pint and pie night. Therefore after two beers (one pumpkin, one hoptoberfest) last night, I was absolutely useless. I was entirely exhausted and fell asleep watching Cool Hand Luke on Sam's couch. I slept for an hour, and then he woke me up and told me to go home. As I was about to pull away from his house, he threw a handful of leaves on my windshield. I'm not going to lie... it was really cute.

My tights? Funny thing, I was surprising people all day because for the most part, people would only see me from the waist up (workin' the front desk this week). If they happened to venture behind my desk, POW! amethyst tights! This is my first batch of We Love Colors tights. They fit so well! Do you realize how great it is to wear a pair of tights and not feel like its giving you lapband surgery?

T-shirt: Charlotte from Urban Outfitters (I have about 8 or more of these shirts in varying colors)
Necklace: Buffalo Exchange in Austin
Skirt: Old Navy
Tights: Amethyst, We Love Colors
Shoes: Nine West, DSW

Peanuts and Cracker Jack

2010-10-19T10:30:00.000-05:00

Finally! Outfit posts!!!! I have been having the hardest time scheduling a few minutes in each day to take pictures of what I'm wearing. That and I am totally lazy. I wanted to start scouting out places for shoots on my way from the parking lot back to my house. There are some really cool buildings but something about this baseball field was just calling to me. Shelby Bottoms park in Nashville is one of the most beautiful parks and greenways. With the Cumberland River so close by and the high rise railroad tracks in the background... it is an interesting place to spend time. Kids were running around, and parents were running around after them.

One of the best things about Nashville is that it is still the south but you still get seasons. I'm sure fall in New York is great, but fall in Nashville is the best season ever in the whole world at any time. The air is crisp, clean, and the trees are absolutely beautiful. It will be this way until about Thanksgiving and then it will start turning cold, wet, and wintery.

And of course, baseball is on my mind right now. I don't like talking about sports but... the Texas Rangers are in the play offs and playing so well against the Yankees! The Rangers have never been this far ever.

Confession: I have been a little bored with the blog. I am not quite sure what it is, but I'm also having a hard time putting a lot of effort into it for many reasons.

Sweater: Delias (its 10 years old)
Dress: Made by me
Belt: Gap
Shoes: Thrifted
Bracelets: Claire's and ModCloth
Necklace: Jess LC Division Collection

Weekly Money Check Up

2010-10-18T10:22:00.000-05:00

One of the biggest aspects of my year without shopping (and shopping in general) is money. Money and finance in fashion blogging (or just in general) is a subject that we shroud a lot. We skirt around how much we are spending or proudly proclaim how cheap we got something for (oh I do that a lot!). Grace from Money Smart Fashion started doing this and I really liked it and so I wanted to start doing it as well.

Over at the blog My Pretty Pennies, she does a Weekly Money Check-Up. Just answer the 5 questions:

1. The most I’ve spent this last week was on my electric bill. Still not as much as I was spending since my house is very tiny and easy to heat and cool.
2. Today I feel stressed towards money. I stretched my budget a little too thin which has left me with just enough in my checking account until payday. But I have everything I need, and do not foresee myself spending money on anything except enough gas to get me through the week.
3. Money can’t buy happiness. One free/inexpensive thing I did last week that made me happy was I went and tried on jeans at the Gap. Sometimes its just fun to go try things on that you either really want or don't ever want. I tried on a plethora of pants, jeans, and leggings.
4. I will consider this week a success if I can work out at least 3 times this week. I've been really trying hard to start a routine in my new job/position. It still feels so foriegn to wake up at 5:45 and have to be out the door by 7:10 so I can catch the 7:30 shuttle. Once I officially start my new job next week, hopefully my commute will be shortened and in order to work out I won't have to be up at 5:15. I'm also excited because with my new job comes perks... such as, free workout classes included in my employee benefits.
5. My favorite cereal is Kroger brand Pecan Granola Flakey things. I'm not even sure if they make it anymore to be honest. But it was so good. It had dates, pecans and granola. So excellent. Now I'm more of an oatmeal girl. Its portable and easy to take with me to work. Which is actually also considered a cereal!

photo source: weheartit

Fashion Tip Friday: How to make your pants fit

2010-10-15T10:30:00.000-05:00

Yesterday on the twitters, WhoWhatWear asked what are your weird clothing quirks. I have a confession to make ladies... and I am not proud, really NOT PROUD. Besides two pairs of jeans, none of my pants fit me. Blame it on the mexican food and beer. Blame it on my straight waisted body... or let's get real... blame it on the fact that I have not been working out as I should... In order for me to find pants that fit my hips, I often end up with pants that are too tight in the waist. I'm not the only one who has this problem. Oh and yes I have gained weight and I haven't been shopping in a year... that too.

(FYI - that's not me...)

So how am I "making it work"? The rubber band trick.

Mostly used by pregnant women to keep their pants snug against their growing preggo bellies... I have been using this trick a lot lately. Now, here's how.

1. Put on your pants but don't zip them quite yet.
2. Put your rubber band through the button hole.
3. Wrap both ends around the button.
4. Zip up your pants as high as it will go
5. Lay the zipper pull down flat (this kind of locks it in place believe it or not)
6. Wear a longer shirt that covers that whole area.

Perfect! Now go eat that cheese enchilada this weekend.

And yes, I know I know... where are my outfits this week? I have not had time to catch some good lighting after work and no time before work. FYI, I park a good 8 miles from my office and ride a shuttle... It takes a while, and this week has been crazy, and rainy too. I'm hoping to revamp my posting schedule to give me a little more leeway and then also still give some great content too.

I got a JOB!

2010-10-12T16:32:00.000-05:00

I HAVE A JOB!!!!!!!!!!

That's all...

Let the champagne celebration begin! I'm pretty sure the celebration will continue on into the weekend!

So I'm lazy, but I want to win this

2010-10-11T09:49:00.000-05:00

Cool red headed chick - Check
Darling affinity for cats - Check
Blunt, honest, sense of humor - Check
Amazing vintage - Check
Some of the craziest most amazing jewelery - Check

Head over to Clyde's Rebirth look book and then after that go peruse Mo vintage.