This Is Where I Blog

I read Coco & Vera daily (unless I have work stuff, then no blogging at all). Last week she did a pretty post of her Work Space where she asked, "Where do you do your blogging?" If you haven't read Cee's post you should stop by Coco & Vera and check it out. I have actually been making myself a nice (by my standards) space for me to blog. Sad thing is I never really use it, because I usually blog sitting on the sofa with the hubs while watching reruns of Family Guy or Law and Order. I think that may be why I spend so much time writing a post and have less time to comment on all the blogs I read. I think if I use my space I might be more productive.

I started with an inspiration board, so I could have a place to display my current inspirations. It's a DIY project. I knew what I wanted and then just used some things I had to make it. I did have to purchase some fabric for it, but I LOVE buying fabric so I didn't mind. I have lots of business cards on it right now. And paint samples for our bathroom. I'm going to add some new inspiration pieces to it this upcoming week.

It's not really a desk, so I needed a place for my pencils, pens, and scissors. I picked up some pretty pins for my board (they are really sewing machine needles). I used an empty tea tin for a pen cup and the lid to hold pins and paperclips. I have lots of notepads because I'm a list-maker. And because I am, I found earth friendly notepads made by TNF Eco Papers. Banana paper is made from banana stock fibers, coffee fibers, and other agro-industrial wastes. How cool is that? I love that the pages aren't bleached and are tree free.

I have a weekly to-do list to keep me on track. I even made a schedule to help me get everything done that I want/need. I love my MAC and my HK mouse pad. I think I will have to spend more time here. Usually, one of my cats is always laying underneath, but now she will have to share.

My reading right now doesn't involve anything fashion related. However, I recently read through the current issue of Lucky. I'll probably cut out some current inspirations from it and put on my board. Now, I'm reading The Living Dead, which is a collection of zombie short stories. As some of you have seen, I'm a lover of zombie movies, so I thought I would try reading some zombie stories. I'm also reading about "Good Laboratory Practices" for work (boring, I know).

Warmth of the Sun-100!

Yesterday wasn't a bad day. Work was long as usual, but it was an easy day considering how most of my days go. When I woke up, I had no idea what I wanted to wear. Usually, I have something in mind even if it's just one piece. I just started grabbing pieces and tried to put something together. Here's what I came up with. I always have a sweater with me at work just because it is always freezing in my building. After work, I just took off my sweater and the warmth of the sun was so nice.

Shirt: C.I.N.Q via TXSCC Clothing Swap
Sweater: Banana Republic Outlet
Jeans: Banana Republic via St. Vincent's Thrift Store
Shoes: Qupid via UrbanOg.com
Belt: Banana Republic Outlet
Earrings: ? via Wal-Mart (years ago)

I've been toying with the idea of starting yoga. There is a yoga center a block from my place. I'm trying to convince the hubs to join me. I can't imagine how this will be. In college, the hubs and I took a dance class together. It wasn't a disaster, but I did get stepped on a lot. Good thing we didn't wear shoes in class. We learned how to tango, cha cha, waltz, and jitterbug. We also danced a lot of folk dances. Haha! I just remembered we did square dancing. It makes me wonder how yoga will turn out for us. I will let you know how yoga works out.

This is my 100th post! Thanks to everyone who has read my blog! 

All Dressed Up and Nowhere To Go

Because I had some "free" time, I played around with Polyvore and created this set. I can get lost in Polyvore just looking at everything. Normally when I create a set, I never have a background or any extras. It is usually just the clothes. I'm not sure which I like better. Any thoughts?

Dress: via ModCloth
Shoes: Carlos by Carlos Santana via Heels.com
Bolero: Marc Jacobs (can't find it for sale anymore)
Ring: Scosha Man via Kabiri
Necklace: Malene Birger via My Wardrobe.com
Bracelets: via Dorothy Perkins
Belt: Nanni via JulesB
Hairpin: Mimco via House of Fraser
Purse: Banana Republic

I wish I had this outfit and somewhere to go in it. It is so sweetly beautiful. Swoon.

Hope you all are having a good week.

My Little Vespa

After a few painful days, I finally had a decent day today. I've had bad back pain all week. I couldn't go to work yesterday, because I was in so much pain. Today however, it's much better. I'm still hurting, but I can move and walk without sharp pains. My massage this morning really helped.

I wanted to wear something different than the sweats that I wore yesterday. I was so happy that I was feeling a little better today, so I wore this skirt that I bought last weekend. I love it! I topped it off with this tank, because I knew it was going to be HOT; besides, it has a giraffe.

I fell in love with this bag when I first saw it. I got it from Modcloth last year. I get so many complements when I take it with me. Now, I just need a Vespa.

Tank: Banana Republic Outlet
Skirt: Jack by BBDakota via Emerald's (local boutique)
Necklace (worn as belt): Falling Whistle via Stag (local boutique)
Shoes: Mossimo (years ago) via Target
Bag: Vespa via Modcloth

Hope you all have a great holiday weekend!

A Deck of Me

I got my business cards!!! I'm so excited. Now, all I need is the opportunity to hand them out.

I'm Pinned

I did something right today. I got so many complements at work. I didn't even know most of the people. Wow! That's amazing especially since I've never talked to these people and most people at my work don't talk to you unless they know you.

I picked up the pins I wore today at a flea market the hubs and I used to go to every Sunday when we lived in Baltimore, Maryland. No, I'm not from the Northeast. We lived there for a short time while the hubs was in graduate school. I'm pure Texan! I amassed a small collection of pins from going to the Lutherville market (no longer in operation). I will have to start wearing them more often.

I didn't think I would ever wear this vest as a shirt when I bought it. I thought about it when I wrapped myself up in it and liked the way it had transformed. I've been wanting to wear this skirt, but I wasn't sure what to wear with it. I decided to choose something cool to go with this wool skirt, because it is sooooo hot outside (I know I shouldn't have worn wool, but I love this skirt). It's not even May yet. I can't imagine how hot it will be in July. I wore a tank underneath, so I could take the vest off when I left work. The heat was killing me even with the air cranking in the car on the way home.

Vest: Papaya
Skirt: Tucker for Target
Socks: Banana Republic
Shoes: Pierre Dumas via ShoeStation.com
Belt: J.Crew
Earrings: Gifted
Pins: Vintage via Lutherville Market (no longer in operation)

 Hope you are all having a good start to your week!

Hello, Rae

Over the weekend I stopped in at Rae cosmetics, so I could take them for a spin. Walking into Rae cosmetics was like walking into a make-up artist's studio. Immediately after walking in, I was greeted by one of the girls and she asked if she could help me. I told her I was new to Rae cosmetics and was looking to try out their products. She said I could have a seat and she would get her brushes. She asked me if I wanted to try liquid foundation. I haven't worn liquid foundation for many years. I've been wearing mineral powder foundation for several years now, so I opted for the powder foundation. She also applied some concealer (which I hardly ever wear). The powder felt very light. I felt as though I wasn't wearing any make-up (Love that!).

I asked about their liquid foundation and the girl offered to give me some samples. I was almost out of my regular powder foundation, so I thought I would give theirs a try. The price is comparable to what I normally spend. I also picked up a concealer (this may be my new friend). I'm excited about trying the liquid foundation.

Rae cosmetics are heat and humidity resistant. They also contain sunscreens and moisturizers and are fragrance free! I'll let you know how Rae works for me.

Where Have I Been?

I know I've been absent for a few days, but I've just been so exhausted. I worked more overtime this week than I think I ever have. At work, I had my first big inspection. I spent the last two weeks and every night getting ready for it. I still wasn't ready when they called and told me I had 20 minutes until my inspection. I still did a good job. No major deficiencies!

Then of course, I had to get my taxes done! I waited until almost the last minute. Yikes!

Yesterday was the hub's birthday. After work, we went out with some friends for a movie, bowling, karaoke, conversation, and cake. I was really exhausted after last night. Thankfully, I had a massage this morning. Now, I feel a little more relaxed.

Here's what I wore yesterday.

Shirt: Banana Republic Outlet
Cardigan: Banana Republic Outlet
Jeans: William Rast
Shoes: Naturalizer
Belt: Banana Republic
Earrings: Gifted (not visible)
Necklace: Banana Republic
Purse: Jenny N. Design

I know I have never had a purse in an outfit photo before. I'm not sure if I will keep doing it or not. What do you all think?

A Long List of To Do's

I have a long list of To Do's, so I'll make this short. I don't know if you all noticed, but I changed my banner. I just purchased business cards! The boots are on my business cards, so I thought I should have my banner match my cards.

Shirt: courtesy stripedshirt.com via TXSCC
Vest: Papaya
Jeans: Joe's Jeans
Necklace: courtesy STRUT via TXSCC
Earrings: Gifted
Bracelet: Handmade by me

I hope you are all having a great week!

Eating Pistachios

I can't stop eating pistachios, so I can write this post. I just bought these pants a couple of weeks ago and I LOVE them! I realized that all I have are jeans and slacks. I don't have any 'other' kind of pants, so I picked up a couple pair. I wish I could wear these pants every day. They are sooooo comfortable. It's like wearing sweats or pajamas. I haven't figured out how to wear pajama bottoms to work yet. Anyway, I had lots of time to decide what to wear today. I don't know that this outfit reflects that.

Tank: Gap
Cardigan: Banana Republic Outlet
Pants: J.Crew
Shoes: Sketchers
Earrings: Gifted (I don't think they are visible)
Necklace: Banana Republic
Belt: J.Crew

I got such sweet comments the other day, I didn't wear much makeup today. I only did my eyebrows and put on blush (1swipe). Oh and lip balm. You ladies are so kind. I always feel like I have terrible skin. Overall, my skin is extremely dry. Oftentimes my hands crack and bleed because they are so dry. I have large pores (which I hate), but I really can't do anything about. I'm allergic to just about anything that touches my skin. I breakout from hairspray (don't use), cologne/perfume (don't use) or fragrances of almost any kind, and aloe vera (don't use). So this one is for you Cathy--I have no secrets. Well, I guess I do. I don't wash my make-up off at night, because I'm too lazy and tired. I never really put anything on my face other than a moisturizer. Right now I'm using Yes to Carrots Rich Moisture Day Cream. I wash my face in the mornings with Dove or Oil of Olay cloths (which ever one I can find, as long as it's fragrance free). The one thing two things I always do is wear sunscreen and get an annual skin check from my dermatologist. If I'm spending the day outside, I wear SPF 50 and reapply every hour.

If you have any more questions for me, feel free to ask.

I have work stuff to finish, so I will see you all back here tomorrow.

I Went Naked Today

How I spent my Saturday:

1. I went NAKED! My face that is. I didn't wear any makeup. I only wore lip balm. It was nice not feeling like my face was melting off. I hate that icky feeling. I really wanted to go to Rae Cosmetics, but didn't make it by there today. Next time...

2. I learned how to tie a sliding knot. I love buying ribbon and trim when I'm anywhere that sells it. I have an addiction, but I'm okay with it. I found this great jute and with my iphone I made a bracelet on the way home. Yes, I always have a pair of scissors with me (well, it's really a small swiss army knife).

See I have on clothes.

3. I bought some really beautiful material. I can't wait to get started sewing my new skirts. When I was shopping last weekend at the blogger meet-up, I saw a beautiful apron. I couldn't justify paying that much for it, because I don't cook that often. I found a simple pattern and I will be getting two aprons for less than the price of that one apron.

I hope you are all having a great weekend!

Last One Is A Winner...Maybe

When I woke up this morning, I had no idea what to wear to today's meeting. All I knew was that I needed to wear something warm, because the room I would be in would be freezing. I tried on about 4 different outfits and then just went with the last one. I was running out of time!

Sweater: Abercrombie & Fitch (years ago)
Jacket: UO via TXSCC Clothing Swap
Jeans: Paige via Goodwill
Shoes: Naturalizer (years ago)
Earrings: Gifted
Necklace: Danielle Maveal (I love this necklace!)

I'm making strawberry shortcake for my team. They have been working so hard and helping me out the last couple of days. I have to go now, so I can whip some cream. Hope you are all having a good week!

Spring Fling

As you all know, I was so inspired by all the beautiful skirts I saw at Forever 21 on Sunday. I love these skirts! You all may not know this, but I am picky. I hate when I buy something and it doesn't have pockets. If I could have a pouch like a kangaroo, I would. (I would also like an extra set of arms, but that's for another post.) I always need a place to carry my phone. I hate small pockets that my phone doesn't fit in and I hate slippery pockets. I didn't get the chance to really check out all the skirts at F21 for pockets, but I'm so inspired that I have already sketched some designs for what I would like to make. I'm impressed with myself. Don't go crazy and think I have uploaded my sketches. I didn't say I'm impressed with my sketches, just myself. Luckily, I stayed rather late at work today, so that means I will be able to leave early later this week and run by the fabric store! I have a small fabric obsession. I'll tell you all more about it later.

Skirts: Forever 21

Do any of you sew? If so, what do you like to sew?

Feeling Inspired

I met up with some Texas bloggers for brunch today. It was great to meet with such talented and sweet girls. After brunch, we shopped a couple of stores. Fun! I was so inspired by everything in the stores. I really want to start sewing. I know how to sew, but I'm just not that great, yet (yes, I am my worst critic). I need to find the time to get to the fabric store. I have so many ideas running through my head.

Shirt: Gap
Vest: Banana Republic
Shorts: Charlotte Russe
Shoes: Jellypop (I can't remember where I got them)
Earrings: Gifted
Necklace: courtesy Strut via TXSCC

I got these shorts last summer, but I still love them. I wanted some paper bag shorts from J.Crew, but they were sold out. I searched everywhere for some that were affordable, but no luck. Then, to my surprise I found these. These really aren't paper bag style; however, I got the only pair left (sale $5) which were way too big. Lucky for me they have a drawstring waist and I can simulate a paper bag waist. Yay me!

Sweet Berries

Poteet strawberries! The hubs and I went all the way to Poteet just to buy strawberries. On the way back, we stopped at a stand selling shortcake. Yum!!

Sorry for the lack of outfit photos. I hurt my leg yesterday and I didn't really feel like limping back downstairs to snap some photos. I know, I'm selfish. Hope you are all having a good weekend!

My Day Off

First of all, I want to announce the winner of the giveaway, the always stylish, Jess of Hello Wife!

Today was a nice day off. I had to miss a big consultants meeting at work which I was supposed to give a presentation at, but I enjoyed my massage, thrifting, and time with the hubs.

Shirt: C.I.N.Q. via TXSCC Clothing Swap
Sweater: Banana Republic Outlet
Shorts: Charlotte Russe (these were pants)
Shoes: Mossimo via Target
Earrings: Handmade by me
Ring: Charlotte Russe
Bracelet: I can't remember

I have a fun day planned for tomorrow. The hubs and I are going to Poteet for strawberries! We are trying to make this a tradition every year; however, we can't seem to remember every year until after the festival.